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SRQ DAILY Jul 18, 2018

Wednesday Philanthropy Edition

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Wednesday Philanthropy Edition

"I like viewers to be able to travel through the canvas for miles and miles and miles."

- Katie Cassidy, artist
 

[Gallery]  Katie Cassidy Unites Yoga and Art at 530 Burns Gallery
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

530 Burns Gallery and local artist Katie Cassidy have joined forces for a special program uniting art and wellness, dubbed “Art & Yoga: Joining the Mind, Body & Spirit.” Debuting last night, the program combines art exhibition with chair yoga, seeing the artist lead an introductory course while surrounded by art inspired by the process.

Clearing the main room at 530 Burns Gallery, staff can fit at least 20 chairs, with enough space on either side for freedom of movement. On the walls at every side, large-scale works by Cassidy evoke sea, sky and land, in great atmospheric canvases that simultaneously intrigue and soothe the viewer. At the front, a lone chair for Cassidy.

The introductory course lasts about an hour, with special focus on breathing. And it’s a yoga discipline accessible to most, says Cassidy. Not only is it an introduction, but chair yoga, by its very nature, democratizes the activity to a certain extent. Yoga poses and stretching remain integral part of the exercises, but staying seated throughout means different poses and eliminates the need for constant getting up and down, which can be tough on creaky joints or stiff backs. Flexibility and strength will improve with time, but, at least for an introduction, Cassidy focuses on the meditative aspects, especially the breathing.

A Registered Yoga Teacher, Cassidy has been practicing yoga “for longer than I’d like to admit,” she says, and never gets tired of sharing it. “It goes through your whole being,” she says, and, for her, has become an integral part of her artistic process. “I can get my mind focused, my mind calm,” she says, “and be able to paint.” In a centered state of mind, Cassidy picks up her paints and hits the canvas—oils, always, so she can layer to “tremendous” depth. “I like viewers to be able to travel through the canvas for miles and miles and miles,” she says, “and get into that state of calm and peace.”

For those interested, Cassidy will be leading another session in 530 Burns Gallery next Tuesday, July 24. Call the gallery to reserve a spot. 

Pictured: "Hallowed Pause" by Katie Cassidy. Image courtesy of 530 Burns Gallery.

[Community Foundation]  A Colorful Movement
Brittany Mattie, brittany.mattie@srqme.com

The Our Sarasota Fund shows its pride by making significant impacts on local non-profits with a focus on the LGBTQ community. A Giving Circle of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, Our Sarasota Fund’s main game improves the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people by supporting those organizations with a mission specifically geared to embracing the diversity of sexuality and gender identity-based cultures. Currently, it is made up of a number of individual members in the community who collectively care about LGBT causes. Since started five years ago, the Our Sarasota Fund has awarded more than $51,000 back into the community. 

How it works, is the funds are collected and administered by Our Sarasota Fund members, then deposited with the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. By pooling resources together under a 501(c)(3) umbrella offered by the CFS, a greater bandwidth for change becomes possible. “A Giving Circle enables individuals to achieve a more significant impact with their charitable giving than they can achieve on their own,” says Manager, Communications and Marketing of CFS Murray Devine. The applications for grants are sent only to identified non-profits with programs/activities in Sarasota County which benefit the LGBT people. After applications for grants are received and administered, members vote on which organizations or projects they will fund—where the dollars then get dispersed based on the decisions made by the Giving Circle on an annual basis.

Grant amounts range anywhere from $500 to $5,000 and go towards causes such as providing safe housing/food, improving and expanding educator inclusivity, HIV/AIDS education and prevention, young adult support groups, promoting unity and social justice, sponsoring events, funding student scholarships, strengthening performing arts programs and more. If you’re interested in becoming a member or would like to see grant recipients thus far, visit the link below.

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.  

Our Sarasota Fund

[Education]  School Board Approves Grohowski as Chief of Police, SCS

On Tuesday evening, the Sarasota County School Board moved to approve Paul Grohowski as the new Chief of Police for the Sarasota County Schools Police Department. Grohowski released the following statement: “I am thrilled to receive the School Board’s approval and humbly accept the honor of protecting our community’s students. As a father of four and a seasoned law enforcement professional, I am acutely aware of the rapidly changing climate that is school security. Each student, teacher, staff member and visitor has the right to learn, teach and grow in an environment that is safe. The Sarasota County School District is at the forefront of implementing increased safety measures, establishing more robust security protocols, and installing state-of-the-art technology and materials to heighten security on school campuses. I look forward to leading a law enforcement team of highly-trained and dedicated professionals whose sole purpose is to provide an exceptional level of service, dedicated to safeguarding our children.  It is a true honor to oversee the Sarasota County Schools Police Department and serve the families of this great community.” 

Sarasota County Schools

[Business]  CareerEdge Seeking Help to Study Industry Skills Gap

The CareerEdge Funders Collaborative is putting up a “help wanted” sign for local insurance companies, looking specifically for help identifying the jobs and skills local businesses need to grow their organizations. The results will inform the Insurance Skills Gap Study, which will contain data retrieved from employer roundtables and telephone interviews with local insurance industry leaders. Training resources available in the region will be compared to the feedback and needs that employers mention in these interviews. The goal is to identify whether training currently exists and, if not, what must be changed or added by training partners to help insurance companies fill the skill gap, hire employees, and grow their companies. The survey is being conducted by Stephanie Kempton of Kempton Research and Planning. CareerEdge Funders Collaborative joined The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce earlier this year to expand workforce development initiatives like this to more industries. Commitment and participation from local employers during the research phase of this project is crucial, and CareerEdge requests that local organizations who are interested in joining this discussion should contact, Lauren Meyer, CareerEdge Program Coordinator, for further information. 

CareerEdge Funders Collaborative

[Real Estate]  RE/MAX Agents, Teams Place in REAL Trends Lists

Associates and teams from RE/MAX Alliance Group have placed in the REAL Trends list of America's Best Real Estate Professionals. Agents Michael Bridges in the Sarasota office and Stephan Scalera in the Bradenton office made the list of best real estate individuals. Placing among the best teams are the Travis Group in the Bradenton office; the Brewer Team, Glenn Brown Team and Al Dumas & Team, all in the Sarasota office; the Finney Team in the University Park office; and the Stiver Firth Group, Kathy Damewood Team and Sandra Newell Team, all in the Englewood office. For the fourth consecutive year, the RE/MAX network had more agents than any other brand in these annual rankings. With 3,146 agents (more than 600 over last year), nearly one in four agents in the rankings are RE/MAX agents. The rankings are based on 2017 residential transaction sides and sales volume. To qualify, an individual must have closed 50 transaction sides or $20 million in sales volume and a team must have closed 75 transaction sides or $30 million in sales volume last year. 

RE/MAX Platinum Realty

[Philanthropy]  FSPA, GCCF Again to Offer Free SWIM Instruction

The Florida Swimming Pool Association (FSPA) once again has provided support to a Gulf Coast Community Foundation initiative that offers free water-safety training to public-school second-graders in Sarasota and Charlotte counties. FSPA’s statewide Swimming Pool Education and Safety Foundation and the organization’s local Manasota and Charlotte Harbor chapters recently contributed a total of $4,000 to support the Kids SWIM (Safe Water Instruction Matters) program through Gulf Coast. Kids SWIM funds and coordinates a week’s worth of free swimming lessons for second-graders at participating schools in the two districts. The donations include $2,000 for lessons in Sarasota County and $2,000 for lessons in Charlotte County during the upcoming school year. Through Kids SWIM, Gulf Coast partners with the Sarasota and Charlotte school districts and several youth-serving nonprofit organizations to provide transportation, pool time, and certified instruction in basic water safety. Second-grade classes that participate go to a nearby pool facility for an instructional period each day for an entire week during the school year. Thousands of area students have benefitted from Kids SWIM since it launched in Sarasota in 2013 with the support of Gulf Coast Community Foundation donors Keith and Linda Monda. In 2016, with additional donor support, the program was expanded to Charlotte County. 

Gulf Coast Community Foundation



[TODAY]  GALLERY: "40 by 8" , June 25 – August 31

True to its name, the summer exhibit, curated by Mark Ormond, features 40 works by eight artists, including Luisa Basnuevo, Jean Blackburn, Luis Delgado, Daphne Gamble, Leslie Lerner, Melissa Meyer, Helen Shulman and Joyce Ely Walker. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.


Allyn Gallup Contemporary Art Gallery, 1288 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL, 34236.

[TODAY]  THEATER: What the Butler Saw , July 10 – July 29

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

[TODAY]  GALLERY: Jenny Medved: Indigenous People, Portraits of Heritage and Descent , June 26 – July 27

Jenny Medved, a representational figurative artist & illustrator working in watercolor, immerses herself in the culture of the people she paints, not just history, but family and community. She shares her insights in her exhibit of about 30 pieces, on display in the Kellogg Gallery. 

ArtCenter Manatee , 209 9th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  GALLERY: Possibilities , July 19 – August 17

This members only, juried exhibition opens July 19th with an opening reception from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. Approximately 250, two- and three-dimensional works in a wide variety of media will be on display throughout all four galleries. Juror Vicki Chelf is a fine art graduate of Ringling College of Art and Design and also studied classical drawing at the Southern Atelier in Manatee County. Chelf derives much of her inspiration from spontaneous thoughts and unplanned drawings, as well as current events. 

Art Center Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: The 10th Anniversary Sarasota Improv Festival - North Coast Extends Its Stay , July 20 – July 21

New York City’s premier hip-hop comedy team, North Coast, is extending its stay in Sarasota following the 10th Anniversary Sarasota Improv Festival.  After the festival, running from July 12-14, North Coast will be in residence at FST for an additional week, leading workshops and delivering special encore performances on July 20 and 21 in FST’s Bowne’s Lab Theatre at 7:30pm each night. Workshops are $35 and are limited to 16 people. Those interested in discovering their own creative spontaneity can register for workshops by calling Pamela Smith, Education Administrator, at (941) 366-1350.

Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 North Palm Ave, Sarasota.

[SOON]  THEATER: The Little Mermaid , July 20 – July 21

Disney's The Little Mermaid is a stage musical based on the animated 1989 Disney film of the same name about a mermaid who dreams of the world above the sea and gives up her voice to find love. Come see the theater bring classic underwater tale alive.

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

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Kayak Trip From Snook Haven Down The Myakka River , July 24, 8:30am-11:30am

Take a kayak trip led by John Sarkozy from the wild and scenic Myakka River, and travel downstream from Snook Haven. All kayak equipment will be provided and is included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 per person for ALS members and $25 for non-members. For those who want it, there will be a short training session given before launch.

American Littoral Society

[SOON]  BUSINESS: SB2 Luncheon: Transformation in Philanthropy , July 26, 11:00am-1:00pm

The SRQ Transformative Philanthropy luncheon and panel discussion will explore the organizations and individuals who are changing the face of the nonprofit world through innovative approaches, strategic alliances and groundbreaking initiatives that foster and employ engagement to make a difference. The luncheon will culminate with presentation of the SRQ Local Philanthropy Hero Award honoring area trailblazers whose passion and drive are benefitting nonprofit organizations along the Gulfcoast.

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

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Kayak Trip from Little Sarasota Bay to Palmer Point Beach , July 26, 8:30am-11:30am

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

[SOON]  GALLERY: Nights Out - ArtCenter Manatee , July 27, 7:00pm-9:00pm

Learn to make a Stained Glass Suncatcher with artist Pamela Kramer, using the traditional copper foil techniques with lead free solder. Many colors are available and all tools will be provided to complete your masterpiece! Bring a friend and start creating! Seating is limited so register today! Tickets cost $40.00 and include supplies, wine or beer, and light snacks. 

ArtCenter Manatee , 209 9th St West, Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  MUSIC: 1st Annual Sun n Fun Music Festival , July 27 – July 29

This festival will rock Sarasota's residents and RVs. Bands featured include Kiss America, a slammin' Kiss cover band, the Shane Duncan Band for country music lovers, Rush Hour, an intriguing Countdown Reloaded cover band and many more. You will not want to miss this day of music, food and fun. 

Sun n Fun RV Resort, 7125 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota.

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Friday Fest: Reverend Barry & the Funk, July 27 , July 27, 5:00 PM

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is continuing their Friday Fest summertime concert series with Reverend Barry & the Funk. Bassist and lead singer Barry Nicholson only has one goal for the band: to keep the crowd dancing all night long! The group regularly performs at nightclubs, parties, and private events around Sarasota. Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, and Prince are just a few of the classic artists that audiences will hear from this dynamic group. And while you’re enjoying the music, be sure to check out Van Wezel’s selection of food trucks, drink vendors, and more! This seven-piece band--including a live horn section--will make this Friday Fest the best one yet!

Bayside Lawn of Van Wezel, 777 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Kayak Trip from Caspersen Beach to Lemon Bay , July 28, 8:30am-11:30am

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

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Don Quixote , July 28, 4pm

“Don Quixote” is a ballet based on episodes taken from the famous novel “Don Quixote de la Mancha” by Miguel de Cervantes. Originally choreographed by Marius Petipa to the music of Ludwig Minkus and first presented by the Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow, Petipa’s choreography reflects the local Spanish culture by incorporating the dance idiom into the movements and bringing Cervantes’ gypsies and bullfighters to life. This is a perfect family comedy ballet with rich costumes and sets and a host of colorful characters.

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

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Kayak Trip On Shakett Creek and Dona Bay , July 31, 8:30am-11:30am

Have a relaxing time paddling through Shakett Creek and Dona Bay, led by John Sarkozy. All kayak equipment will be provided and will be included in the cost of the trip, which is $20 for ALS members and $25 for non-members.  

American Littoral Society

[SOON]  THEATER: Other People's Money , August 1 – August 19

Fast-talking Wall Street shark Lawrence Garfinkle has his sights set on taking over the undervalued stock of New England Wire and Cable. It is up to Kate Sullivan, a determined big-city lawyer, to stop Larry from gutting the company. Loaded with conflict, comedy, and a touch of romance, Other People’s Money delves into the seedy and deceptive world of business.

Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  SEMINAR: Teen Court of Sarasota’s Volunteer Recognition Dinner , August 1, 5:30pm-8:30pm

Join Teen Court of Sarasota in celebrating their adult volunteers and community leaders with an award presentation hosted by Judge Lynn N. Silvertooth Judicial Center.Teen Court of Sarasota has awarded more than $188,000 in scholarships to dedicated volunteers since 1996. These scholarships assist recipients as they head off to college, the armed services and other endeavors. Scholarships further the mission and memories of distinguished Teen Court friends and volunteers, including Jack Byers, Dennis Wood, Katie Self and Jenna Hellman.

Judge Lynn N. Silvertooth Judicial Center, 2002 Ringling 2nd Floor Court Room 2A

[SOON]  THEATER: Wakey, Wakey , August 3 – September 2

How do we confront the uncomfortable inevitability of death? Obie-award-winning playwright Will Eno chooses to celebrate life’s lingering gifts with an uplifting mix of gratitude, absurdity and humor in a profound rumination on life and humanity.

Urbanite Theatre, 1487 2nd St., Sarasota

[SOON]  THEATER: The Turn of the Screw , August 7 – August 26

1840: an era charmed by superstition, madness, and the writings of Sigmund Freud led Henry James to write one of the most chilling ghost stories of all time. A young governess arrives at a seemingly idyllic country house to look after two orphaned children. But shortly after her arrival, she realizes they are not alone. She risks everything to keep the children safe, until she begins to question her sanity, and the children’s innocence.

Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 North 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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