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SRQ DAILY Feb 19, 2019

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"I want people to see this planet we have as one world."

- Nicole Stott, astronaut, aquanaut, artist
 

[People]  Phoning Home
Brittany Mattie, brittany.mattie@srqme.com

Rev. Dr. Roger Kunkel began Dial Hope by waking everyday at 5am to record a 2-3 minute uplifting telephone message. People began to call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Dial Hope took off as a global telephone and Internet ministry providing daily faith-based, non-denominational dispatches. Today a growing nonprofit foundation with a board of directors, Dial Hope recently welcomed a NASA astronaut and artist as its keynote speaker to its Annual Luncheon at Bird Key Yacht Club. Only 561 people have been to space, 60 are women, and one of them is Nicole Stott from Clearwater. “Nicole’s inspirational message about humanity is a perfect fit for Dial Hope,” explains board member Ann Babcock.

She is renowned for creatively combining the awe and wonder of her spaceflight and deep-sea experiences. Her work stimulates thought-provoking appreciation of our role as Earth's crewmates by raising awareness of all the efforts going on in space amongst 16 international countries—all working in harmony to improve life on the blue and green orb for future generations. As the first person to paint a watercolor in space—having spent three months on the International Space Station and Space Shuttle—she mentions her time spent orbiting the globe ironically brought her “back down to Earth”, realizing the interconnectivity of the universe and significance of it all. “It’s a perspective thing,” Stott says. “Instead of feeling surrounded by the planet, I was surrounding the planet”—at 17,500 miles per hour—giving her a whole new vantage point, literally as well as philosophically. “The one thing we all have in common is this planet we share,” she says. “We have to get along to take care of it and take care of each other.”

Also an aquanaut, Stott lived underwater for a three-week mission on the Aquarius undersea habitat, submerged 60-feet underwater off the coast of Key Largo in a laboratory the size of a school bus, witnessing Goliath groupers and Eagle rays through yet another wondrous window, this time a porthole. Stott believes that the international model of peaceful and successful cooperation experienced in both these extreme environments holds the key for all of humanity and mankind. “I will never run out of inspiration,” she says.

Her greatest mission today is to share this message to current and future generations, sometimes as part of a team of artists, astronauts and health experts at the Space for Art Foundation in St. Petersburg, connecting children around the world with the healing power of art. "Art is a wonderful universal tool to proactively communicate these complex things in life,” she says. And now Dial Hope aims to create a children’s forum, which Stott hopes to help launch in the near future. 

“Dial Hope is wherever you are, whenever you are in need,” Board Chair Candy Swick says, then quips, “Sounds like we need to get Dial Hope on the Space Station.” 

Photo of Nicole Stott presenting at Dial Hope Foundation's Luncheon courtesy of Jacqueline Marine Photography.

Dial Hope

[GoodBite]  Quenched by the Amazon
Brittany Mattie, brittany.mattie@srqme.com

For weekend warriors, athletes, gym goers and on-the-go individuals, Kamsa needs no further introduction. For hydration that seriously lasts, break the cap of the newest natural hydration beverage on the market. Kamsa drinks came from the Kamsa Indians, native to the Colombian Amazon. Powered by panela, unrefined cane extract, it proves leaps and bounds better than your average enhanced water, most likely convoluted with regular refined sugar and chemical alternatives. Panela water has been used by the Kamsa indigenous people and other native Indians in the Amazon for over 500 years, to help with hydration in their extreme environment, including high temperatures and humidity. Traditionally, panela is made by dehydrating sugar cane extract over a low heat to derive a beverage ingredient that actually adds a distinctive caramel overtone to provide the naturally sweet flavors of Kamsa drinks.

Additionally, this exoic refreshment is fueled by a packed nutritional label of natural fruit flavors, healthful electrolytes and essential antioxidants, and is also GMO, gluten and caffeine-free. Thirst-quenching and succulent flavors include High Mountain Citrus, Deep Forest Hibiscus/Mixed Berry, Wild Tropics Pineapple/Coconut and South Island Mango/Peach.  

Kamsa is headquartered out of Doral, FL, with manufacturing facilities located in Clearwater. Find Kamsa drinks at Lucky’s Market, 3501 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 941-260-1223. 

Photo courtesy of Kamsa.

[Real Estate]  Dodd-Smith Partners Join RE/MAX Alliance Group Venice

Realtors Audrey Smith and Tiffany Dodd have joined the Venice office of RE/MAX Alliance Group, forming Dodd-Smith Partners. They assist buyers and sellers from Bradenton to Punta Gorda, with primary emphasis on the Venice and North Port markets. Smith has 12 years of experience in local real estate. Her commitment to professionalism is reflected in her award-winning customer service and numerous designations, including Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS). She is fluent in French. Dodd is a Florida native and former Venice YMCA preschool teacher with 11 years of local real estate experience. She brings strong market knowledge, customer service and marketing skills, and is experienced in all residential real estate from high-end properties and large volume acquisitions to foreclosures, short sales and everything in between. 

RE/MAX Alliance Group

[Education]  Saarinen Named 2019 Outstanding Undergraduate Science Teacher

Dr. Emily Saarinen, associate professor of biology and environmental studies at New College of Florida, has been named the 2019 Outstanding Undergraduate Science Teacher by the Society for College Science Teachers (SCST). An affiliate of the National Science Teachers Association, SCST gives the reward each year to recognize and celebrate singular science teachers who excel in their instruction, scholarship and service. As the 2019 award-winner, Saarinen will receive a year’s membership to the SCST, a $1,500 check, an honorary plaque and an invitation to the SCST National Conference in St. Louis this April, where she will serve as the featured speaker and deliver the Marjorie Garner Lecture. 

New College of Florida

[Business]  JFCS Names Hedde-Croce Chief People and Culture Officer

Jewish Family and Children’s Service of the Suncoast, Inc., a fully accredited, community-based social service nonprofit, recently appointed Deborah Hedde-Croce as its chief people and culture officer. With more than 40 years of experience within the human resources sector, Hedde-Croce will support the CEO and further the agency’s mission by increasing the attraction and retention of outstanding talent through a comprehensive human resource program. She will be responsible for directing the development and implementation of an employee-oriented, high-performance culture and provide top-level leadership and direction for the nonprofit’s 100-plus employees. Prior to joining JFCS, Hedde-Croce served as the director of human resources for The Resort at Longboat Key Club and The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park and also acted as a human resources consultant. 

Jewish Family and Children's Service of the Suncoast

[Business]  Girls Inc Names Lewis Director of Advancement

Girls Inc. of Sarasota County has hired Ella Lewis as its new Director of Advancement. A Sarasota native, Lewis has been working in the nonprofit sector since 2011. A graduate of the University of Florida, she most recently served as the Development Director for the Child Protection Center. Lewis’ responsibilities will include working with the Girls Inc. team to raise funds in support of the organization’s mission. She has also served as an active member of the Junior League of Sarasota for eight years, and is the incoming Executive Vice President of the volunteer organization. Girls Incorporated is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring all girls to be strong, smart and bold. 

Girls Inc.



[TODAY]  THEATER: Finding Neverland , February 19 – February 20

FINDING NEVERLAND tells the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. Spellbound by the boys’ enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound London theatergoers. With a little bit of pixie dust and a lot of faith, Barrie takes this monumental leap, leaving his old world behind for Neverland, where nothing is impossible, and the wonder of childhood lasts forever.

Van Wezel , 777 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  SEMINAR: The Business of Artificial Intelligence , February 21

Speakers, Dr. Ehsan Sheybani and Sarah Gentry will present a seminar that will introduce different topics in artificial intelligence, including components such as: Wireless mobile applications, A.I. in eco-arts education, pattern recognition or generation, visualization, image processing, video/image editing, audio visual media, data analytics and voice recognition.

USFSM - Selby Auditorium, 8350 North Tamiami Trl.,Sarasota

[SOON]  GALLERY: Fine Arts Festival of Manatee County , February 23

This annual festival celebrates its 18th annual Festival featuring local and regional artists. All media. Held at Bradenton Rivewalk in the pavilion area.

[SOON]  GALA: Starry Night Soiree , February 23, 6:00PM

Celebrate the wonder and magic of the cosmos, accompanied by a gourmet dinner, live auctions, dancing and more!

Funds raised at this special event help make a local impact and support essential American Cancer Society programs, services and extensive research for all cancers in all stages of life. The American Cancer Society’s Starry Night Soiree will be held on Saturday, February 23, 2019 at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. with a pre-event reception which includes a silent auction followed by an elegant dinner, a live auction, and incredible entertainment. 

The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr, Sarasota

[SOON]  GALA: Denim & Diamonds Shindig , February 25, Begins at 5:30pm

Break out your finest western garb, boots, bling, or favorite cocktail attire for an evening of sparkle and cheer. Florida Studio Theatre’s 2019 annual fundraiser will kick off with a cocktail reception featuring live music, dancers, performances by FST's resident improv troupe, raffles, and more. The celebration continues with live entertainment from FST beloved performers, the presentation of the Spelman Award, and a seated dinner catered by Michael's On East. Tickets are $250 per person. To RSVP, contact Development Associate Samus Haddad at 941.366.9017 ext. 316.

[SOON]  FILM: African Diaspora Film Festival – Tongues United by Marlon Riggs , February 26

Filmmaker Marlon Riggs, winner of the Los Angeles Film Critics Award, and Best Documentary prize at the Berlin Film Festival, is as relevant as ever. The film gives a voice to communities of gay black men, presenting their cultures and perspectives on the world as they confront racism, homophobia and marginalization.

Academic Center – ACE 115, 5800 Bay Shore Rd.,Sarasota

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: The Sleeping Beauty , February 27

The Sleeping Beauty, a crowning jewel of Marius Petipa’s career, is often considered the finest achievement of the Classical ballet. It is a grandiose and refined blending of the traditional mime, expressive pas d’action and spectacular divertissements in a lavish theatrical setting and set to Tchaikovsky’s glorious score. 

Van Wezel, 777 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota,

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Black Literature Read-In , February 28

The read-in is an event where members of the NCF community read aloud inspirational texts written by Black authors. Wes Bellamy is the youngest person to ever be elected to the Charlottesville City Council and was involved with the initiative to move the Confederate statue.

Jane Bancroft Cook Library , 5800 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Russian Folk Music and Dance , February 28

This interactive program of popular Russian and folk songs from the Barynya Russian Balalaika Duo incorporates colorful costumes and dance into a full experience. Highlights include “Tara’s Theme” from Dr. Zhivago, the Russian Gypsy dance “Two Guitars,” the “Cossack Dance,” “Moscow Nights,” “Kalinka” a charming “Tongue Twister Medley” and more. Instrument highlights include the balalaika, garmoshka and contrabass.

Michael's on East ballroom, 1212 South East Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: SRQ Media's ProjecTHINK Conference , March 1 – March 2, March 1, 5:30-7pm — March 2, 8:30am-1pm

Join SRQ MEDIA for PROJECTHINK, a collaborative community initiative designed to explore the world of innovation and creativity in learning. PROJECTHINK is a two-day conference hosted at the Ringling College of Art and Design on March 1-2, 2019. The conference kicks off on Friday March 1 from 5:30-7pm with celebrated TEDx keynote speaker and global education innovator Ismet Mamnoon, followed by presentations from Dr. Larry Thompson, Ringling College of Art and Design; Jennifer Vigne, the Education Foundation of Sarasota County, and Chris Laney, CareerSource Suncoast. On Saturday March 2 from 8:30am to 1pm, PROJECTHINK opens the world of creativity through hands-on engagement through creativity workshops and immersive workshops that transform the creative process facilitated by Ringling College faculty. The conference concludes with Lunch on the Lawn from 1-2pm, featuring local food trucks. PROJECTHINK is produced by SRQ MEDIA in partnership with the Ringling College of Art + Design, the Education Foundation of Sarasota, and CareerSource Suncoast.

Ringling College of Art and Design Campus, 2700 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles , March 5

In celebration of the anniversary of Abbey Road, Rain will bring the greatest hits of this epic recording to life, in addition to all your early Beatles favorites. This performance takes you back in time with the legendary foursome delivering a note-for-note theatrical event that is “the next best thing to seeing the Beatles” (Associated Press). Experience the worlds’ most iconic band and come celebrate the best of Abbey Road with Rain – A Tribute to the Beatles.

Van Wezel, 777 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  GALA: Goodwill Mardi Gras Gala , March 5, 6pm-10pm

Goodwill Manasota and Michael’s On East invite the public to the most anticipated event of the season: the Mardi Gras Gala. This event features authentic Cajun food, open bar, fabulous live auction items, New Orleans-style music, and dancing. The 2019 Mardi Gras Gala will take place on Tuesday, March 5, 6-10 p.m. at Michael’s On East (1212 East Avenue S., Sarasota). This is the fourteenth year of the event, which was conceived by Michael’s On East co-proprietor Philip Mancini. Guests dress in beads and masks and enjoy New Orleans style drinks and dinner offerings such as Crawfish Étouffée, crab cakes, Jambalaya, Oysters Bienville, and much more. Co-chairs are Tim Schalch and Megan Baers; major sponsors include CS&L CPAs, NDC Construction, and Seaside Bank. Tickets are $150 per person; visit experiencegoodwill.org or call 941-355-2721, ext. 251 for reservations or to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.

Michael's on East, 1212 East Avenue S., Sarasota

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: Music on May Lane , March 8, 4:00pm - 9:00pm

Here is the description we're using: You're invited! Join us on Friday, March 8th from 4-9 p.m. for Music on May Lane, our first neighborhood block party complete with food, drinks, and music, in the heart of the Rosemary District. Celebrate with us at The Bayside Club!

The Bayside Club, 800 Cocoanut Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Kaleidoscope of Creativity , March 9, 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Join the Booker High School Visual & Performing Arts department and fellow art lovers for an unforgettable evening featuring a mozaic of stellar performances, exquisite art, silent and live auctions and more. Sip signature cocktails and feast on culinary creations catered by Michael’s on East, as you mingle under the stars to bolster the stars of tomorrow. It will be an evening to remember and supporting a mission we should never forget—ensuring the enduring legacy of the arts in Sarasota and beyond.

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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