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SRQ DAILY Dec 14, 2017

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"Each year, this is an opportunity we use as a platform for Teacher of the Year, but also to honor all teachers, who have chosen what we consider to be the most noble profession in the land."

- Jennifer Vigne, Education Foundation of Sarasota County
 

[Education]  Swihart Named Teacher of the Year
Jacob Ogles, jacob.ogles@srqme.com

For the second year in a row, a faculty member at Riverview High has been named Sarasota County Teacher of the Year. Es Swihart, who teaches English at the school, was chosen from among three other finalists. “Teaching is about helping students who are struggling to find out who they are and helping them find a space to be themselves,” Swihart said at a special event Wednesday. “It’s our job to help them grow.”

The other finalists for the award included Bethany Burnett, a fifth-grade teacher at Venice Elementary, and Allison Cohen, a math teacher at Booker Middle. Swihart received the honor at the Ignite Education awards ceremony produced by the Education Foundation of Sarasota County and held at at The Westin Sarasota. The event was also attended by 37 other educators named as Teacher of the Year for the public schools in the district where they teach.

“Each year, this is an opportunity we use as a platform for Teacher of the Year, but also to honor all teachers, who have chosen what we consider to be the most noble profession in the land,” says Jennifer Vigne, president of the Education Foundation.

Swihart, who has taught for 11 years total including five in Sarasota County, will now represent the district at the state Teacher of the Year competition.

The ceremony also honored James Tollerton, the first president of the Board of the Education Foundation of Sarasota County, with the Alumni of Distinction Award. “I had great teachers here in Sarasota County who made a difference in my life,” said Tollerson, who works in insurance and continues to serve on a number of community boards.

And this year, the Ignite Education award, given to a campus Teacher of the Year winner who used innovation the classroom, went to Robbie Wolf, who teaches plumbing technology and apprenticeship at Suncoast Technical College. Wolf is also the owner of Cy Blue Plumbing. “Being a leader is not about standing on a pedestal barking orders, but being in the trenches and leading by example,” Wolf said. 

Es Swihart

[Ryan Flies]  From the Cockpit Part 50: TF-51 Mustang
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

Editor’s Note: This is part 50 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.

When Rankin began this journey almost a year ago, there was one particular plane that he had in mind and was looking forward to—the P-51 Mustang. Arguably the most famous and most celebrated of the Allied World War II warbirds, the Mustang was built during the war as an “immediate response to an immediate need,” according to Cliff Atkins, the pilot who took Rankin up on the momentous flight. And despite being designed with a pencil and paper and made by hand, the Mustang ensured Allied superiority over the German Luftwaffe and its pilots claimed nearly 5,000 enemy aircraft downed.

“It’s almost like when you walk up to someone important of famous,” says Rankin, of the experience. “You want to respect the airplane and put your best foot forward.” He remembers having his own toy Mustang as a child, just as his son does now. But though almost “starstruck,” it’s still, on some level, just a plane. And Rankin knows planes.

Flying out of Pensacola International Airport with Atkins, the opportunity to fly such a rare bird comes from the Collings Foundation, an organization dedicated to historic preservation and outreach, including but not limited to aircraft. Each year, the Foundation brings various WWII-era aircraft across the country as part of its Wings of Freedom campaign to raise awareness and sell rides (to support further outreach). In Rankin’s case, Collings is in the dream-making business.

To be fair, the Mustang is not technically a P-51, but a TF-51. They are essentially identical machines, except the TF-51 sports two seats, each with flight controls and avionics. Otherwise, Rankin would merely be a passenger.

Now, the scariest thing about meeting one’s heroes is the danger of being let down—that an awesome musician or actor or Nobel Peace Prize Winner just might not be an awesome person as well. In Rankin’s case, the Mustang was everything he hoped for. With the exception of some highfalutin, high-tech modern autopilots, he’s never experienced a smoother or more hands-off aircraft. “You trim it up and it goes in a straight line,” he says. It’s almost a given that prop planes are going to shudder and shake to some degree, but the Mustang doesn’t even do that. “It’s just a clean, smooth airplane,” says Rankin. “Coupled with how old it is and how quickly it was developed, it’s striking how smooth it actually is.”

Taking to the skies with Atkins, Rankin spends a little bit longer than usual, about 40 minutes, enjoying the flight. They get into the aerobatics, including an eight-point aileron roll from Atkins. A regular aileron roll roughly consists of “throwing” the stick to the side and rolling in the sky. And eight-point roll requires the pilot to roll the plane in eight separate movements, pausing at intervals in the roll. It’s a bit trickier, but a common airshow maneuver.

The only drawback—maybe—is the gas mileage. The Mustang is a guzzler. With a Rolls Royce Merlin engine powering the whole affair, the plane goes through about a gallon a minute, with fuel costing roughly $5 a gallon. But that’s hardly a negative, according to Rankin. “It’s an incredible aircraft and there’s no other way to put it,” he says. “And if you can afford a Mustang—millions of dollars—then you can afford the gas.

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

Pictured: Ryan Rankin in a TF-51 Mustang. Photo courtesy of Ryan Rankin.

Ryan Flies

[15 South Ristorante]  Homemade Heaven

After a fantastic and memorable Italian meal at 15 South Ristorante, cure your sweet tooth with one of their homemade dessert options. Constantly rotating different selections, a must-try is their Tiramisu. Made in house, their chef uses an authentic recipe he learned from his families pastry shop back in Italy. This decadent dessert has espresso-dipped lady fingers with delicate layers of eggs, sugar and Mascarpone cheese and a finishing flavor of Cocoa. Topped with a chocolate drizzle, the taste is light yet bold and is the perfect way to end your night. Pair this with one of their homemade limonchellos or their espresso martini for the perfect nightcap. 

Photo Credit: Wyatt Kostygan.

15 South Ristorante is a member of Nosh, the SRQ magazine content marketing program for local restaurants.


 

15 South Ristorante, 15 S Boulevard of the Presidents, Sarasota, 941-388-1555

15 South Ristorante

[Recognition]  Seafood Shack Named Anna Maria Large Business of the Year

Seafood Shack Marina, Bar & Grill has received the Large Business of the Year Award for 2018 from the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce at the annual Installation Banquet. Since 2011, the prestigious award has recognized Anna Maria Island Chamber businesses that exemplify growth, productivity, customer service, job creation and overall contribution to the community. “The Shack,” as it is known to the locals, has been in business for 45 years. Liza Kubik, Director of Marketing and Jed Lippincott, COO accepted the award on behalf of the property’s staff of 48 and ownership, Vandyk Group of Properties, which purchased the iconic property just three years ago and began its restoration. Other winners of the evening included Allegra Printing and Signs for the medium-sized business award and Jen and Mark Bowman of Keller Williams on the Water accepted the award for the best small-sized business. 

Seafood Shack Marina, Bar & Grill

[Community]  Manatee County Seeking Public Input On Plan and Code Changes

Manatee County is seeking input on a set of changes to its comprehensive plan and land development code over the next few months. The proposed changes will have significant bearing on how the County reviews and processes future land development applications. More specifically, the suggested changes will bring more consistency among regulations in the County's major planning documents, according to Planning Manager Lisa Barrett. All of the new policies and revisions are posted on the County's website for public review. The County will host a public workshop to go over the planned changes on Jan. 17, from 5:30-7:30pm in the Downtown Central Library Auditorium. Attendees are encouraged to review the proposed changes online beforehand, in order to ask better questions, but a consultant will be on hand to explain the proposed amendments at the meeting. In 2018, Barrett said additional substantive changes will be discussed regarding the County's sign ordinance, how it's planning for sea level rise and provisions to allow for residential accessory dwelling units. 

Manatee County Government



[TODAY]  GALLERY: Floating Cubes , December 14 – January 19

Recently showing with the Skyway: A Contemporary Collaboration exhibition uniting The Ringling Museum with the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg and the Tampa Museum of Art, artist Akiko Kotani comes to Art Center Sarasota for another site-specific installation. Working in weaved plastic, Kotani explores minimalism and simplicity as she pushes the boundaries of her medium.

ArtCenter Sarasota, 707 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  FOOD: Men, Whiskey, Watches and Wheels , December 15, 6:00PM

Men, Whiskey, Watches & Wheels features whiskey tasting from select distillers, an assortment of fine luxury watches, exotic cars, a live and silent auction, casino-style games, and networking with the area’s business community. Proceeds will support Child Protection Center’s mission in the prevention, intervention, and treatment of child abuse. This year's poker tournament will be held on Thursday, December 14, 2017 at One Eyed Jacks Poker Room at Sarasota Kennel Club at 6pm. Ticket to the main event includes an open bar, whiskey tasting and food buffet.

Edson Keith Mansion at Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 South Tamiami Trl., Sarasota, FL 34231

[SOON]  MUSIC: Dynamite Dulcimer Jam , December 16, 8pm

Come out and experience two virtuoso folk artists laying it down individually and in duo performance. Dan Landrum is the nation’s best known dulcimer artist, having been tapped for three world tours with keyboardist Yanni. Aaron O’Rourke began performing on mountain dulcimer at the age of 16. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door.

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

[SOON]  MUSIC: Perlman Music Program Winter Residency , December 21 – January 6

The Perlman Music Program’s (PMP) intensive 17-day Winter Residency offers unparalleled musical training for international students, ages 12 to 20+, who play the violin, viola, cello and bass. With a faculty led by Toby and Itzhak Perlman and comprising some of the most gifted musical talents of our time, the PMP Sarasota Winter Residency offers an artistic and personal experience that changes students' lives forever. The winter residency’s free public events include orchestra and chorus rehearsals, master classes, and works-in-progress student recitals. Question and answer sessions with the Perlmans, PMP students and faculty follow many of these events that take place in a heated, outdoor performance tent on the grounds of the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus. Each year, the winter residency culminates with the Celebration Concert with Itzhak Perlman conducting the PMP String Orchestra and Patrick Romano leading the PMP Chorus at the Sarasota Opera House. 

USF Sarasota-Manatee, 8350 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL

[SOON]  BUSINESS: Lights in Bloom , December 21 – December 30, 6:00PM

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens lights up the holiday season with Lights In Bloom. Over one million lights will illuminate the garden and walkways will be transformed into sensory light tunnels. Visitors will have the opportunity to stroll through magical gardens filled with beautifully lit flowers, radiant rainforest butterflies, dragonflies and more. The tropical holiday paradise includes nightly visits from Santa and his elves (before Christmas Eve), children’s arts and crafts activities and games, plus live entertainment with SoulRCoaster each evening. Grilled foods will be available for purchase from the Michael’s on East grill including a cash bar. The Selby House Cafe will also be open with its full menu. In its 14th year, Lights In Bloom has become a tradition for residents and visitors to celebrate the holiday season in Sarasota

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens , 811 S Palm Ave Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  THEATER: Home for the Holidays , December 26, 8pm

The five young comedians of local group Millenial Fresh are sure to make audiences laugh in this holiday inspired sketch comedy show. Taking place at Westcoast Black Theatre, this event will be a great way to bust your gut for the holidays.

Westcoast Black Theatre , 1646 10th Way, Sarasota

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: New Years Eve Fireworks , December 31, 7:00PM

The 7th Annual New Years Eve Fireworks Celebration at Marina Jack will be bigger and better than ever. Enjoy a variety of entertainment and menu options onshore at Marina Jack along with a sparkling midnight fireworks show. Climb aboard the Marina Jack II for a four–hour celebration dinner cruise, complete with party favors, live music and fireworks on Sarasota Bay. Either way, you are sure to have a sparkling New Year! 

Marina Jack , 2 Marina Plaza Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  MUSIC: An Evening in Mayberry , January 5

The Dillards are a a musical group with a history dating back to The Andy Griffith Show over 50 years ago. Join them for an evening in Mayberry, and have the opportunity to relive musical memories and meet some of the Mayberry friendly faces. Tickets are $22 in advance and $25 at the door.

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

[SOON]  MUSIC: Musical Landscapes , January 6, 7:30pm

See the world from your seat with an evening of musical panoramas. Whitacre's luminous reimagining of the River Cam, which flowed past his window at Cambridge University, features Sarasota Orchestra's own principal cellist Natalie Helm. Hailed for his "energy and enthusiasm," guest conductor Stefan Sanders dynamically guides guests on this matchless musical tour. 

Sarasota Opera House, 61 North Pineapple Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  GALLERY: Cast, Cut and Cold - Glass , January 8 – March 24

Technically amazing and visually stunning examples of creations by more than two dozen masters of glass art including Peter Bremers, Vadlec Ciglar and Irene Frolic astound in this exhibition. Numerous examples, styles and methods of glass casting and etching are represented in this one-of-a-kind gallery.

Ringling College of Art and Design Gallery, 2700 N. Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  THEATER: Shakespeare in Love , January 10 – March 28

Adapted for the stage by Lee Hall, Shakespeare in Love will offer an entrancing theater production that follows the story of Will Shakespeare, a struggling playwright tormented by writer’s block. To his rescue comes the vivacious Viola, Will’s greatest admirer. But Viola has a secret and Will finds himself star cross’d.

Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  THEATER: The Mountaintop , January 10 – February 18

This performance depicts a fictionalized portrayal of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his last night of his life. With a theatrical imagination, the play gives viewers a window into what went on in the legendary man's life, and what his hopes, vulnerabilities and fears were.

Westcoast Black Theatre , 1646 10th Way, Sarasota

[SOON]  SEMINAR: SMARTgirl Mentorship Summit Call for Applications , January 10

SRQ MEDIA is calling for 6th, 7th & 8th grade girls to find your inner “roar” at the 2018 SMARTgirl Mentorship Summit and Luncheon on Friday, March 16, 2018 from 10:30am-1:30pm at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota.

Explore the possibilities and celebrate every girl’s potential at SMARTgirl. Participants will engage in an innovative program designed to educate middle school girls in 6th, 7th and 8th grades on career imaginings and the tools they need to succeed through mentorship, soft skills training and hands-on workshops with some of the community’s top women leaders.

 

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

[SOON]  THEATER: Nine , January 11 – January 28, 2pm, 7:30pm or 8pm depending on day

Guido Contini is a wreck and dreading his 40th birthday, a dread that stifles the easy flow of his creative juices. He runs off to Venice in search of inspiration. In a swirl of present issues, revisiting traumatic memories and grasping at women likes straws, Contini finds himself on the verge of total annihilation.

Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. W., Bradenton

[SOON]  SEMINAR: An Evening With Audrey , January 11, 5:30-8:00pm

Audrey Hepburn (1929-1993) was one of the greatest fashion icons and screen legends in history whose innate style and kindness captivated the world. Pamela Fiori, former editor in chief of Town & Country and Travel & Leisure magazines and six-time published author, presents a portrait of a much beloved woman, award-winnng actress, devoted mother, humanist, passionate gardener and Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF. Join SRQ MEDIA and WIB Trailblazer Honoree Pamela Fiori for an enchanting evening of sparkling cocktails, conversation and exploration into Hepburn’s luminosity through images, film and stories.

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

[SOON]  BUSINESS: Emily Larned , January 12 – March 17

This exhibition celebrates the ten-year anniversary of Impractical Labor in Service of the Speculative Arts (ILSSA), a social engaged art project founded in 2008 to investigate labor, time, and what we value. A selection from the first ten years of the project will be featured, and ILSSA co-founder Emily Larned will be in-residence in the gallery for the first two weeks of the show.

Ringling College of Art and Design Gallery, 2700 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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