SRQ DAILY Jun 13, 2018
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"The more we understand, the faster we can find solutions."
With the Sarasota Design Conference in the rearview, officials and participants are still mulling over what they’ve learned—particularly from the inaugural workshop. It’s been 30 years since the first conference, and this year saw the first extension to a full three days, bringing the addition of a participatory workshop designed to get attendees hands-on with design solutions in their own area. “Our relationship with water is Florida-wide,” says Selma Goker Wilson, 2018 Sarasota Design Conference Organization Committee Chair and AIA Florida Gulf Coast Chapter secretary. “The more we understand, the faster we can find solutions.”
With a focus on “Salty Urbanism,” a concept calling for forward-thinking design and architecture that can withstand coastal conditions and adapt to the changing nature of what that will mean in a future of rising sea levels, increased storm activity and climate change. Gathering in the Hyatt Regency Sarasota, an intimate group of 30 or so attendees heard from a series of speakers from around the state, including design dignitaries like Jeffrey Huber, a principal and director of planning and urban design at the internationally acclaimed Brooks + Scarpa architectural firm, and Dr. Keith van de Riet, whose artificial mangrove root systems transform bare concrete seawalls into thriving ecosystems that provide natural water filtration. Ringling College Professor Tim Rumage brought a local focus, examining how these issues could affect waterways and coastal communities in Sarasota and Manatee counties.
But it wouldn’t be a workshop without the audience taking some problems to task, and the second half saw attendees divided into groups to brainstorm real-world solutions for real-world sites. With supplementary documentation, Rumage introduced the groups to the particulars of a variety of sites, including Whitaker Bayou and the Van Wezel. Using this information, each group brought to bear what it had learned in previous presentations, strategizing solutions that cold be viable in their own backyards. “We had a lot of good ideas,” says Wilson, and the conference hopes to put some together in a concise presentation for the key players involved, to let them know of these possible solutions.
For a first-time project, Wilson reports complete satisfaction, and hopes to continue with the model in the future, noting that architects and designers, like everyone else, learn in myriad ways, and lectures and presentations don’t always cut it. But though the conference may grow in many ways, it likely will retain its intimate nature and avoid ballooning into a massive trade show or something of that ilk. “The whole point is that everybody gets to talk to everybody,” says Wilson, “especially the speakers.”
Pictured: Ringling College Professor Tim Rumage leads a presentation at the Sarasota Design Conference "Salty Urbanism" workshop. Photo by Wyatt Kostygan.
Masala means spicy and this group of women are certainly spicing things up in the community. Masala Giving Circle represents 42 members who all share a common thread in wanting to create positive change in African American communities through philanthropy. The group gets together on a regular basis and focuses on making a difference, combining their energies and dollars for a greater impact. Vice President Marilyn Thompson notes that the eclectic group of women try to have some fun and be social too! “We always make sure we are pulling together like-minded women that have the same values and take pleasure in getting to know the community we live in better, and connect with the needs that people have.”
“Part of the African American tradition is based around giving back and we have a whole legacy as African Americans of being very involved in community activities, so we see this group supportive of that,” says Thompson. “We also feel that many of us are blessed and feel fortunate for all that we have, so we like to find ways we can give to those who are not as fortunate by working with nonprofits. This is our way of giving back.”
Over the past four years, Masala Giving Circle has provided outreach for organizations such as More To Life—providing young girls with mental health services due to human trafficking. And through the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, they aided awards to Turning Points—providing shelter and housing services for the homeless. They’ve also given grants to Newtown Nation to ensure the Newtown area has their own farmer’s market, as well as a sorority group in Manatee county for their Pearls of Excellence education mentor program. “Our mission remains to promote economic and personal empowerment through financial support for programs and initiatives that benefit African American/Black communities in Sarasota and Manatee counties,” says Thompson. After reviewing numerous grant applications this year, four grants of over $23,000 were distributed in May alone, to nonprofits who align with their strong mission, such as Visible Men Academy and Truly Valued.
“Masala Giving Circle is an opportunity to leverage our resources and if more people are together, we have more to give and more opportunity to share ideas and learn about the community as a whole.”
The Community Foundation of Sarasota County is proud to partner with SRQ Media Group to highlight stories about community impact powered by philanthropy in our region, thanks to the support of donors and our local nonprofit partners. The Community Foundation is a public charity founded in 1979 by the Southwest Florida Estate Planning Council as a resource for caring individuals and the causes they support, enabling them to make a charitable impact on the community.
Photo provided by The Community Foundation of Sarasota County
S&P Global Ratings, the world’s leading provider of credit ratings, raised its long-term rating on the School Board of Manatee County’s certificates of participation (COPs) two notches—from ‘BBB+’ to 'A'—according to a report issued by S&P. The outlook for the School Board of Manatee County’s is stable. The report states: “The upgrade reflects the board's recent trend of stable operating performance and improved reserves, supported by the formalization of financial management policies and practices that we consider "good." The district reported operating surpluses in three of the last four audited fiscal years. In that time, the district's available fund balance increased by $26.7 million. The board's available fund balance at fiscal year-end 2017 was $18.1 million, or 4.9% of expenditures, which we consider good.” School Board Chair Dr. Scott Hopes said the ratings upgrade would benefit the district moving forward. Fitch Ratings, another global leader in credit ratings, upgraded its rating outlook for the School District of Manatee County twice in two years, in both 2015 and 2016.
Meet the SB2 Transforming Philanthropy Keynote Speaker, Julie Henry, CEO and President of Finish Line Leadership, for the philanthropy series luncheon on Thursday, July 26, 2018 from 11:30am to 1pm at The Francis. A skilled facilitator, consultant and dynamic keynote speaker, Julie brings 20 years of experience to her global clients through Finish Line Leadership; a company dedicated to helping leaders influence change and make it stick. She specializes in high stakes visioning and strategic initiatives, when stakeholders must be engaged and on board for sustainable results, and leaders need to face change head-on to lead boldly at the next level. She is viewed as a trusted, credible insider who has 'been there' yet brings the invaluable perspective of an outside expert who can accurately pose questions and challenge the status quo. Julie is an award-winning entrepreneur and regularly donates her time and expertise to help people change the world from youth developing leadership skills to a consortium of nonprofits working to establish a global network of Marine Protected Areas.
This week, Bayside Pet Resort, a luxury pet resort that offers five-star amenities to its canine and feline guests, officially opened for business in Lakewood Ranch. Built by J.E. Charlotte Construction Corp., a Venice-based commercial construction company, the new 14,600-square-foot building marks the third site in the market. In addition to Lakewood Ranch, Bayside Pet Resort is also located in Osprey and Sarasota. The full-service, state-of-the-art luxury facility offers five-star quality services, including overnight lodging, daycare with a 4-foot-deep in-ground pool, training and professional pet grooming. Located at 15117 Garnet Trail at the northeast corner of Lorraine Road and State Road 70 in Lakewood Ranch, 20 hand-painted pieces of artwork from students of the Easter Seals Southwest Florida’s Art Initiative program adorn the facility’s walls. The students created colorful works of various dog breeds using acrylic paints. When purchased, 70 percent of the commission goes directly to the artists, and the remaining 30 percent covers the materials and operations cost for the art program.
Sabal Palm Bank has announced that Gary Houseworth has joined the team at the 5101 Fruitville Avenue location as vice president and branch manager. Houseworth brings years of community banking experience with him, having spent the last ten years opening and running the Insignia Bank branch located at Fruitville and Cattlemen Roads. This gives him invaluable knowledge of, and experience with, meeting the customer needs in the area. A lifelong Sarasota resident and graduate from the Florida State University, Houseworth’s community involvement includes the 4H club, Braden River Riders, Tatum Ridge Elementary School Advisory Council, Sarasota Sportsmen’s Association and Bayside Community Church.
Opening the Friday Fest series on June 22nd is reggae band Jah Movement. Fronted by hometown hero and vocalist extraordinaire Shantel Norman, Jah Movement plays top 40, Funk, Soul, R&B and Calypso Dance music. Winners of Creative Loafing’s 2016 ‘Best Local Reggae Band’ in the Tampa Bay Area and recent 2nd place winners of Sarasota Herald-Tribune’s Best Local Entertainment for 2017, Jah Movement is made up of some of the best musicians in the South West Florida Region. The event will feature food trucks and beverage vendors. Attendees welcome to bring blankets and lawn chairs.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 North Tamiami Tr., Sarasota
Come out and enjoy an open rehearsal with Choreographer Kira Blazek Ziaii and Sarasota Contemporary Dance dancers followed by a Q&A session.
Sarasota Contemporary Dance Home Studio, 1400 Boulevard of the Arts Ste. 300, Sarasota.
Artistic Director of Kompany Malakhi in the United Kingdom, Kewsi Johnson will show dancers his passion for creating imaginative and inspiring narratives that often hold a message. He specializes in fusing dance styles such as UK Jazz dance, contemporary, Funk styles, and Breakin', with physical theatre and the unexpected to create a style that is incomparable. The workshop equips you with the skills to transform and reinterpret image, spoken and written language into 'physical theatre.'
Sarasota Contemporary Dance Home Studio, 1400 Boulevard of the Arts Ste. 300, Sarasota.
Come out and enjoy an open rehearsal with choreographer Kwesi Johnson and Sarasota Contemporary Dance dancers, followed by a Q&A session.
Sarasota Contemporary Dance Home Studio, 1400 Boulevard of the Arts Ste. 300, Sarasota.
Opening the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall’s Friday Fest summertime concert series is reggae band Jah Movement. Fronted by hometown hero and vocalist extraordinaire Shantel Norman, Jah Movement plays top 40, Funk, Soul, R&B and Calypso Dance music. Winners of Creative Loafing’s 2016 ‘Best Local Reggae Band’ in the Tampa Bay Area and recent 2nd place winners of Sarasota Herald-Tribune’s Best Local Entertainment for 2017, Jah Movement is made up of some of the best musicians in the South West Florida Region. Each of the four events will feature food trucks, beverage vendors and more – it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a summer sunset over Sarasota Bay. Don’t miss out - “The Movement” is sure to get you dancing!
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
The African savannah comes to life with Simba and Nala, Pumbaa and Timon, Mufasa and Scar, and more unforgettable characters as they journey from Pride Rock to the jungle and back again in this inspiring, coming-of-age story. This vibrant tale has captivated worldwide audiences. With Sir Elton John's music, dazzling costumes and extraordinary talent, this is a show not to be missed.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave. West, Bradenton
The 34th Annual Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix, offers events for the entire family to enjoy. Powerboat racing will take place off Lido Beach on July 1 broadcasted by CBS Sports, with boats racing at speeds over 100 MPH. Other Festival events include a Golf Classic, Car Show, Kickoff Party, Racer Autograph Signing, A Fan Festival, Downtown Block Party, Motorcycle Charity Ride and much more. The Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix is produced by, and benefits, Suncoast Charities for Children supporting local children and adults with special needs.
Officer Marcus Moscowicz is a small town policeman who dreams of becoming a detective. When shots ring out at the surprise birthday party of great American novelist Arthur Whitney, and Whitney ends up dead, Marcus sees an opportunity to prove his sleuthing skills. With only a short time to solve the case, he has to find out, “whodunit?” In a witty musical homage to classic murder mysteries, Murder for Two is the perfect blend of music, mayhem, and murder.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota
Join John Sarkozy, as he shows you the natural beauty of Little Sarasota Bay. All kayak equipment will be supplied to you and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members. A short training session will be given before the trip for those who wish to take it. Take a break on the “crown jewel” of local beaches and take a swim or a walk before paddling back to the mainland.
American Littoral Society
The Palms Golf Club and the Sarasota Film Festival are teaming up for Films on the Fairway. Throughout the summer, you will be able to enjoy a film, food and fun on the gorgeous greens of the Palms Golf Club. In their upcoming screening, the golf club will show Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark, the 1981 Steven Spielberg classic starring Harrison Ford. Tickets can be bought in advance or purchased at the door. Premium tickets are also available on a limited first come-first serve basis. For $27.50, enjoy dinner, a beverage of choice, a golf cart with preferred viewing, unlimited popcorn and waitress service! Reservations must be made and paid in prior to June 23rd, 2018.
The Palms Golf Club, 1990 S Beneva Rd., Sarasota, FL 34232
Enjoy quiet water, open-seated kayaking and exploration from Casperson Beach to Lemon Bay. All kayak equipment will be provided and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members.
American Littoral Society
Join Marina Jack for their annual Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular on Independence Day between 11:00 am-10:00pm. Indulge in the decadent menus from the Dining Room, Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill and Deep Six Lounge & Piano Bar all while enjoying the magnificent display of lights in the sky. Marina Jack II will host a three-hour cruise featuring a buffet, live music and premier viewing of the fireworks display.
Marina Jack's, 2 Marina Plaza, Sarasota, FL 34236
Join John Sarkozy, as he shows you the natural beauty of Little Sarasota Bay. All kayak equipment will be supplied to you and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members. A short training session will be given before the trip for those who wish to take it. Take a break on the “crown jewel” of local beaches and take a swim or a walk before paddling back to the mainland.
American Littoral Society
Enjoy the great outdoors with a kayak paddle led by John Sarkozy, through Nokomis and the Curry Creek Preserve. All kayak equipment will be provided and is included in the cost of the trip, which $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members. Bring drinking water, suncreen and your sense of adventure.
American Littoral Society
Wild, risqué, and ferociously funny, Joe Orton’s classic farce takes aim at everything from sex to psychiatry. In an exclusive, private mental health clinic, Dr. Prentice is attempting to seduce his prospective secretary when his wife walks in, interrupting his sordid intentions and kicking off a maniacal tour de force involving a state inspector, bellboys, slamming doors, and, above all, Orton’s wicked wit and breakneck dialogue.
Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota
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