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SRQ DAILY Apr 10, 2018

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"We really need to be on a main artery."

- Virginia Haley, Visit Sarasota County
 

[Business]  Serving Visitors, Commerce Simultaneously
Jacob Ogles, jacob.ogles@srqme.com

The business of tourism remains one of the top industries in Sarasota. It’s no surprise then that many of the people walking through the doors of The Greater Sarasota of Commerce come looking for information on attractions. Now, the main Visitor’s Center for the region sits inside the Chamber for the first time in decades, streamlining the process of helping tourists find their way and possibly creating the possibility for synergy between two of the area’s most important trade groups.

Virginia Haley, president of Visit Sarasota County, says the regional tourism bureau had maintained its welcome center in Downtown Sarasota but longed for a different locale when the subject of co-locating with the Chamber arose. “If you’ve made it to Main Street, you’ve already figured out where Downtown Sarasota is,” Haley says. “So we really need to be on a main artery.” The Chamber sits on Fruitville Road near U.S. 301, so many people first wandering into Sarasota pass right by it. And from the Chamber building, Visit Sarasota staff can easily direct people not just to the downtown a couple blocks away but toward the beach, airport or interstate.

Kevin Cooper, president and CEO for the Sarasota Chamber, notes Visit Sarasota’s work first started as a chamber function, and many visitors see the building and expect it to have the type of information a hospitality center usually provides. “We have a substantial lobby and are used to entertaining visitors looking for referrals and for things in the area,” Cooper says. “Now we are able to help those people and do it with a much greater level of expertise.” Those looking for tourist info simply get referred to Visit Sarasota volunteers. Similarly, Haley says, business partners coming to Visit Sarasota County can also be referred to the Chamber for any type of assistance on the commerce and policy end.

Cooper, who previously worked as executive director of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce, says that the smaller chambers in the area continue to focus energy on attracting people to their respective coverage areas, so the partnership makes a lot of sense.

And Haley says Visit Sarasota continues to work with those smaller chambers as well, maintaining a special kiosks at the Venice Chamber of Commerce, Longboat Key Chamber of Commerce and Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce. The organization also keeps a station at The Mall at University Town Center, and the organization has been in talks with opening a location at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport. 

And while the executive offices for Visit Sarasota County remain in a downtown Sun Trust building, Haley and Cooper say they continue to speak frequently about ways the organization can further one another’s overlapping missions of advancing tourism and commerce in Sarasota County. 

[GoodBite]  Te Amo Tequila
Brittany Mattie, brittany.mattie@srqme.com

Within the glass entrance beholding a giant sugar skull, Catrina’s Tacos and Tequila Bar promotes an ineffable fiesta beyond its authentic fare. A colorful inscape baring a Day of the Dead theme, the festive scene boasts rustic furniture, eye-catching wall decor, Talavera pottery and handcrafted fixtures, all surrounded by an eclectic folk gallery of amusing paintings/murals. The traditional cuisine is cooked to order using locally sourced vegetables and meat while encompassing imported spices/ingredients. Its Mexican diehard menu consists of everything from citrusy ceviches and award-winning guacamole and tacos to sizzling fajitas, homemade moles and salsas. Catrinas brings the North Country of Mexico to our Gulfside backyard. 

And firing up the last Thursday of every month, put on a brave face for a tequila tasting that will knock your zapatos off! Catrina’s Azul Cantina Lounge features 350+ tequilas—that’s the largest selection in the entire Tampa Bay Area. The Don Abraham Organic Tequila in particular is 100% organic natural agave product, and the main desperado truckling your inhibitions for this monthly event. Don Abraham Organico uses only organically farmed blue agave plants that originate from one of the finest growing regions in all of Jalisco, Mexico. Enjoy flights for $30 of its varying distillations, including silver, reposado, anejo and extra anejo. If sipping the spirit straight is too hardcore, the crafty bartenders at Catrina’s can mix up one of their salivating margaritas for you that come in flavors such as the newly added La Ardida Blazed margarita—a spicy blend of coconut water and chile de arbol. Tropical tunes start at 8:30pm on this special day, with live music by Renesito Avich.

Can’t wait two more weeks to check out Catrina’s for its Last Thursday? Good news, viva your best life every Tuesday by stopping by St. Armands Circle for the Taco Tuesday special—$3 on all the tasty tacos all night long. ¡Hola! Guess what day it is?  

Image provided by Catrina's

Catrina's Tacos & Tequila Bar, 40 South Boulevard of the Presidents, Sarasota, 941-260-8496

[Exec Moves]  Nzeza Named Principal of Southside Elemenary School

Jennifer Nzeza has been named principal of Southside Elementary School, effective May 30. She currently serves as assistant principal at Southside where she has worked since 2017. Nzeza was recently recognized as the 2018 Sarasota County District Assistant Principal of the Year based on her work at Southside. Her new position is pending confirmation from the School Board. Nzeza assumes the role currently held by Steve Dragon, who is retiring on May 29. Prior to her work as assistant principal at Southside Elementary, Nzeza served as an assistant principal at Pine View School from 2011–17, where she was responsible for professional development and instruction. Before that, Nzeza worked at Booker Middle School from 1998–2011. She has an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership from Argosy University, a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from National Louis University and a bachelor’s degree in Social Science Education from the University of South Florida. 

Southside Elementary School

[Education]  FSU and SMH Set to Launch Emergency Medicine Residency Program

The Florida State University College of Medicine and Sarasota Memorial Health Care System have received approval to launch a new Emergency Medicine residency program to meet health-care and physician workforce needs in Sarasota and surrounding communities. The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)—the sanctioning body of graduate medical education in the U.S. and Canada—approved the program’s initial accreditation last week, clearing the way for SMH and FSU to begin reaching out to graduating medical students interested in enrolling in the specialty program in the summer of 2019. During their three years of training, residents rotate through all of the disciplines in emergency medicine under the supervision of FSU and Sarasota Memorial’s highly qualified, board certified physicians and medical educators. Statewide studies continue to show that the supply of primary care and emergency doctors in the region is critically below residents’ needs.  The state’s physician workforce report shows the supply of primary care physicians in Medicaid Region 8 (including Sarasota, Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Desoto, Glades and Hendry) falls short of demand by more than 25 percent, the most of any region in the state. Dr. Kelly O’Keefe, the program’s founding director, was hired last year to oversee the new program.  

Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation

[Government]  Manatee County Hosts Hiring Expo April 19

Local job-seekers will have dozens of public sector careers to learn about and apply for at this month's Manatee County Hiring Expo. Representatives from Manatee County Government, Property Appraiser, Sheriff, Supervisor of Elections and Tax Collector will all be on hand to discuss job opportunities. The hiring expo will be Thursday, April 19 from 2pm to 7pm at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, One Haben Boulevard in Palmetto. The County has more than 100 vacancies in everything from bus operators and transit attendants to school crossing guards, emergency dispatchers and convention center staff. Job seekers who visit the hiring expo should dress professionally and bring several copies of a resume to leave with potential employers. 

Manatee County Hiring Expo



[TODAY]  MUSIC: Jersey Boys , April 10 – April 12

Jersey Boys is the Tony, Grammy and Olivier Award-winning Best Musical about Rock and Roll Hall of Famers The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi. This is the true story of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop music history. They wrote their own songs, invented their own sounds and sold 175 million records worldwide – all before they were 30.  The show features their hit songs “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “Oh What a Night” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” 

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 North Tamiami Tr., Sarasota.

[TODAY]  SEMINAR: Leap Before You Look: Black Mountain College 1933-1957 , April 10, 6pm

Join us for a talk & book signing with ICA, Boston curator Ruth Erickson. Black Mountain College was born out of a desire to create a new type of college based on John Dewey’s principles of progressive education. During its brief existence, Black Mountain College attracted and created maverick spirits, some of whom went on to become well-known and extremely influential individuals in the latter half of the 20th century, including; Willem and Elaine de Kooning, Robert Rauschenberg, Merce Cunningham, Cy Twombly, Franz Kline, Buckminster Fuller, Dorothea Rockburne and many others.

The Works, 891 South Tamiami Tr., Sarasota.

[SOON]  MUSIC: Mavericks of Rhythm , April 11 – April 14

This concert showcases the mavericks who defined the distinctive rhythms of American music. You’ll experience popular American composers such as Bernstein, Copland, Mancini and Ellington, as well as a few lesser known, but no less intriguing and accessible pioneers of the American sound.

Holley Hall, Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center, 709 North Tamiami Tr., Sarasota.

[SOON]  SEMINAR: Warhol's Nature , April 11, 12pm

This talk will be given by Chad Alligood, the chief curator of American art at the Huntington and will explore Andy Warhol’s surprising lifelong engagement with nature as subject matter. Although well known for his responsiveness to popular culture and advertising, Warhol simultaneously explored the natural world through his work, depicting landscapes, flora and fauna in innovative and unexpected ways. 

[SOON]  DANCE: Warhol Nights: Sarasota Ballet , April 11, 6pm

Join The Sarasota Ballet’s Studio Company and students from the Margaret Barbieri Conservatory in an exciting evening of dance.  The program will include traditional ballet and culminate in a world premiere by Elizabeth Weil Bergmann to some of the ‘Songs for Drella’.  John Cale and Lou Reed, leaders of rock band The Velvet Underground, wrote these songs as a musical tribute to Andy Warhol and his life.

[SOON]  MUSIC: Taking Flight , April 13 – April 14

Soar with Stravinskyʼs magnificent Firebird Suite and Korngoldʼs rousing The Sea Hawk Overture. Renowned piano soloist Orion Weiss takes command of Brahmsʼ Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major and Bizetʼs crowd-pleasing Carmen Suite No.1 rounds out this program.

Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice.

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: 20th Anniversary Sarasota Film Festival , April 13 – April 22

Held annually, The Sarasota Film Festival emphasizes the best in cinema alongside exciting programs and events, with more than 200 films screened each year including features, documentaries, shorts and kid-friendly picks. This year's 20th Anniversary Festival will run April 13-22.

[SOON]  HEALTH: SCADaddle 5k for Research , April 14, 8am

SCAD stands for Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection and is a little known condition in spite of being the leading cause of heart attacks for women under 50. When Tracy Murphy had a heart attack due to SCAD, doctors were not able to properly diagnose and treat Murphy right away. Now, Murphy is working with the Mayo Clinic to raise both awareness and money for their research study on SCAD. Come out and enjoy a fun run or walk for a good cause on a beautiful Saturday morning, kids can run as well. 

Payne Park, 2050 Adams Ln., Sarasota.

[SOON]  MUSIC: Wyonna and the Big Noise , April 14, 8pm

Wynonna and her band The Big Noise, led by her husband, drummer and producer, Cactus Moser, return to the Van Wezel this season. Respected by the millions of fans who are drawn to her music and undeniable talent, Wynonna’s rich and commanding voice has sold over 30 million albums worldwide spanning her remarkable 33-year career. As one-half of the legendary mother/daughter duo "The Judds," Wynonna was once dubbed by Rolling Stone as “the greatest female country singer since Patsy Cline."

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 North Tamiami Tr., Sarasota.

[SOON]  SEMINAR: SFF Media Brunch Panel: Self Care and Mental Health in the LGBTQ Community , April 14, 12pm

Join us for a community conversation centered on issues of mental health and self care in the LGBTQ POC community with Tangina Stone sharing her own coming-of-age experience and growth. Canton, Ohio-bred and Brooklyn-based alternative-r&b artist Tangina Stone has been championed as a universal breath of fresh air with a purity in her sound and vulnerability in her lyrics that transcends the music scene. Stone will perform an acoustic set followed by a talk back/interview. Buffet style brunch included.

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

[SOON]  GALA: Art in the Dark , April 14, 6:00pm-11:00pm

Experience art in a whole new light at the Art in the Dark event at Michael’s On East to benefit Lighthouse of Manasota.  Lighthouse of Manasota is the only nationally accredited, private, non-profit agency providing rehabilitation training to blind and visually impaired individuals of all ages residing in a five county region.

Michael’s on East, 1212 S East Ave, Sarasota, FL 34239

[SOON]  MUSIC: Chris Botti , April 15, 8pm

Returning by popular demand with an intimate live concert, trumpeter Chris Botti will again thrill you with his love for rich, evocative melodies and a treasure chest of jazz standards, famous classical masterpieces and soon-to-be instant favorites.  Whether he’s performing with illustrious symphonies or at renowned venues around the globe, his unparalleled crystalline and poetic sound transcends musical boundaries and has cemented his place as one of the most brilliant and inspiring forces of the contemporary music scene

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 North Tamiami Tr., Sarasota.

[SOON]  MUSIC: Let It Be , April 17, 8pm

This is the show that you never got to see The Beatles ever perform.  Let It Be relives the past from Ed Sullivan to Abbey Road, with favorite hits including “Hard Day's Night,” “Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band,” “Twist and Shout” and “Strawberry Fields,” and imagines the reunion that never was.

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 North Tamiami Tr., Sarasota.

[SOON]  THEATER: Shakespeare in the Gardens , April 18 – May 15

Experience Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing” during the Asolo Rep’s outdoor performances. The lawn behind Payne Mansion will serve as the backdrop to this comedy anchored by the entire ensemble of second year graduate actors of the FSU/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 900 South Palm Ave., Sarasota.

[SOON]  GALA: Blue Ties and Butterflies , April 18, 6:00pm-9:00pm

On April 18 during Child Abuse Prevention Month, Child Protection Center will hold its 6th annual Blue Ties & Butterflies at Michael’s On East. This signature, event is beautifully designed to build awareness about CPC's mission in the prevention, intervention, and treatment of child abuse. Child abuse is a difficult topic, but one we cannot ignore. At Blue Ties & Butterflies, we celebrate the healing and hope CPC provides to children and families in our community. We promise you an unforgettable evening full of hope and inspiration.

Michael’s on East, 1212 S East Ave, Sarasota, Florida 34239

[SOON]  MUSIC: ABBA The Concert , April 18, 8pm

The audience and press all agree that this is the closest to ABBA you’ll ever get. ABBA The Concert brings one of the greatest pop phenomena back to life and continues to be the top ABBA tribute group in the world. Be dazzled by the performance of the most iconic hits from ABBA, including “Mamma Mia,” “S.O.S,” “Money, Money, Money,” “The Winner Takes All” and “Dancing Queen.” Come dance, come sing, having the time of your life at the ultimate tribute celebration.

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 North Tamiami Tr., Sarasota.

[SOON]  THEATER: Soul Man: A New Musical Revue , April 18 – May 26

As the 1960s Civil Rights movement unfolded, black music evolved from the controlled Motown performances to fiery cross rhythms sound—a little gospel, a lot of soul. The passionate soloists, such as James Brown, Otis Redding and Sam Cooke, added energetic movements and unique vocalizations that inspired many future performers. Soul Man will feature some of WBTT’s most popular male performers.

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1646 10th Way., Sarasota.

[SOON]  MUSIC: The Silk Road Ensemble with Yo-Yo Ma , April 19, 8pm

Since 2000, the Silk Road Ensemble has been redefining classical music for 21st-century audiences. Established by world renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma, the musicians represent a global array of cultures while co-creating art, performances and ideas. They draw on a rich tapestry of traditions that make up our shared cultural heritage, creating a new musical language. A uniquely engaging and accessible encounter between the foreign and the familiar that reflects our many-layered contemporary identities. Their most recent album, Sing Me Home, won the Grammy this year for Best World Music Album

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 North Tamiami Tr., Sarasota

[SOON]  MUSIC: Romantic Wonders , April 19, 5:30pm

Two quintessential Romantic era composers are the stars of our final soirée. Brahms' Clarinet Trio opens with a sense of longing as the clarinet and cello engage in a beautiful duet. The dance continues and expands with expressive interruptions from the piano until the final stormy movement. Mendelssohn's Octet cemented his legacy as one of the great prodigies and composers of all time. The work combines two string quartets with stunning melodies and a graciously balanced structure.

Holley Hall, Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center, 709 North Tamiami Tr., Sarasota.

[SOON]  THEATER: Pageant , April 19 – April 21, 7:30pm

Back by popular demand! This is not your everyday beauty pageant. These “ladies” will fight for your vote to capture the crown of “Miss Glamouresse.” The six vivacious contestants include: Miss Deep South, Miss West coast, Miss Great Plains, Miss Bible Belt, Miss Industrial Northeast, and Miss Texas.Watch these lovely “ladies” compete in evening gown, talent, swimwear, and spokes-modeling. An evening filled with lots of laughs, where the audience actually chooses the winner!

The Players Centre of Performing Arts, 838 North Tamiami Tr., Sarasota.

[SOON]  GALLERY: Solo Blanco , April 19

Come out to Jorge Blanco's first solo exhibition in Sarasota. Blanco is a Venezuelan sculptor and illustrator whose art values a postive lifestyle. His work embraces scale, landscape, urbanism and technology while creating soaring testaments to the optimism of everyday life.

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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