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SRQ DAILY Mar 14, 2019

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"It was all positive."

- Jim Brown, Longboat Key Town Commissioner
 

[City]  LBK Voters Approve Commission Term, Density Changes
Jacob Ogles, jacob.ogles@srqme.com

Longboat Key Town Commissioners will have longer terms and the island may boast a few more homes following the passage of two referenda Tuesday night. 

Voters approved a density change for land owned by the Mote Scientific Foundation, making it more marketable. The organization owns 1.82 acres on Gulf of Mexico Drive previously zoned only for commercial uses. Now, someone can build as many as seven residential units on the property. 

"I thought that was overdue, something that should have been taken care of a long time ago," says Mayor George Spoll. "There's no demand for commercial space on the Key to speak of. This is the perfect way to clean somthing up in the town."

Town Commissioners voted in December to put the density question before voters. Density changes such as this are required by the town charter to be approved by voters. Voter had previously rejected density increases for the land, but that happened the same day voters rejected a controversial hotel redevelopment plan. Standing as the only density change on the ballot, it passed easily.

Almost 56 percent of Longboat Key voters supported the density change.

Voters also made a substantial change regarding the election of town commissioners. Instead of being elected to two-year terms, commissioners will now serve for three years. This will require a staggering of elections. Commissioners will still face a six-year term limit. 

“It was all positive,” says long-time Town Commissioner Jim Brown, who this year decided not to run for re-election.

Not everyone agrees, though. Spoll considered the change an unnecessary waste of time. "I personally liked two=year terms," he says. "It has not been an impediment to me."

But voters seemed to latch onto the case it would incentivize more people to run for office if terms were longer. The measure passed with more than 62 percent of the vote. Indeed, the one glaring absence from the Longboat Key ballot this year was actual Town Commission contests.

Mike Haycock won election unopposed to succeed Brown in an at-large seat. City Commissioners Spoll and Jack Daly won re-election in Districts 2 and 4 respectively without opposition.  

[Film]  Sarasota Film Festival Announces Highlight Films, Awards

The Sarasota Film Festival (SFF) has announced that the documentary Mike Wallace Is Here, from director Avi Belkin, will serve as the Opening Night Film for the 2019 Sarasota Film Festival, and Phil, the directorial debut of Academy Award-nominated and Emmy Award-nominated actor Greg Kinnear, will make its world premiere at the festival as the Closing Night Film. Kinnear and Belkin will both be in attendance at the festival. The festival will also screen Noble Jones’ The Tomorrow Man, as the Centerpiece film, starring Emmy Award-winning and Tony Award-winning actress Blythe Danner.

During the Awards Ceremony on Saturday, April 13, prior to the Closing Night Film in the Sarasota Opera House, Danner will receive the festival’s SFF Icon Award, and Emmy Award-winning and Tony Award-nominated actress Anne Heche will receive the festival’s SFF Career Tribute Award. Belkin, Kinnear, Danner, and Heche will all participate in the festival’s popular In Conversation With series.

The 21st annual Sarasota Film Festival will take place from April 5 to April 14. 

Sarasota Film Festival

[Philanthropy]  Measured Treasure Math Challenge Winners at Alta Vista Elementary

John Annis, senior vice president at Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation, had been collecting coins in a glass jar at home over the last four years and was ready to cash them in. However, inspired by an initiative of Barancik Foundation to train teachers to use fun and engaging scenarios to teach students math techniques, Annis approached Sarasota County Schools to find a better way to invest the money.

Through the Measured Treasure Math Challenge, Annis challenged the students of dozens of local elementary school classrooms to put their math skills to the test and estimate how many dollars the coins in his jar would add up to. Students were provided the dimensions of the jar and a rough idea of how many pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters were in it, and the closest would keep the money to throw a class party.

On March 10, Annis and members of Sarasota County Schools surprised Amylynn Seider’s third-grade class at Alta Vista Elementary School by delivering the jar of coins, and news that their winning guess of $330 was only one dollar away from the $331 total. Annis surprised the class once again, when he announced he also had a $331 check for Seider to use however she wanted. 

Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation

[Travel]  SRQ Airport Reports Continuing Traffic Growth Trend

Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) passenger traffic for the month of February was up 35% over February 2018 with 150,607 passengers traveling through the airport. This follows a 41% increase in traffic for the month of January with year-to-date traffic up 38%. Passenger traffic is expected to show continued growth through 2019 with eight new destinations starting service over the next 30 days. Service to Traverse City, MI (TVC) will begin this Saturday on Elite Airways, followed by seven new destinations on Allegiant Air starting in early April. The new Allegiant destinations include Harrisburg (MDT) and Syracuse (SYR) starting April 3; Columbus (LCK), Richmond (RIC) and Cleveland (CLE) starting April 4; and Grand Rapids (GRR) and Nashville (BNA) starting April 5.  

Sarasota Bradenton International Airport

[Business]  Brilliant Harvest's Wittman Earns NABCEP Certification

Local solar installer Eugene Wittman of Brilliant Harvest has become a NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) Photovoltaic Associate, earning his certification through on-the-job experience and a rigorous exam. The NABCEP Associate Program recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge of the fundamental principles of the application, design, installation and operation of photovoltaic energy systems. As the market grows for PV technology, individuals with an industry-validated NABCEP Associate Exam credential can offer employers the confidence that they are hiring or promoting someone who is committed to learning and professionalism, and who has demonstrated a strong understanding of the fundamental terms and operational aspects of a PV system. 

Brilliant Harvest



[Travel Guide]  Ultimate Travel Guide-SRQ Magazine's May 2019 Edition

RVs, Cruises + Destinations- Oh My! Discover, plan and book your perfect summer trip with expert advice, travel guides, destination information and inspiration this May in SRQ Magazine! Be a part of this special content marketing feature and connect with readers in Sarasota, Bradenton and the Barrier Keys who are planning their whirlwind summer vacations!

SRQ Magazine’s Content Marketing Division engages you with our readers powerfully in print and strategically online.Contact us today reserve your space!

Contact your Business Development Executive or Associate Publisher Ashley Ryan Cannon at 941-365-7702 x211 or growmybusiness@srqme.com to reserve your space and article today. SRQ Magazine’s Content Marketing Division engages you with our readers powerfully in print and strategically online.

SRQ MAGAZINE—Live Local. Love Local | Sarasota and Bradenton 

[TODAY]  GALLERY: Cycle 4 , March 14 – April 19

Through a visceral mixing of oil and acrylic paint, Walter Matthews’ densely worked canvases create a reflection of the artist’s intensity and anxiety. Continuing the annual tradition, Spectrum IV embeds the independent work of three natural solo artists into an experimental installation that blurs the lines between collaboration and contamination. Split between a series of micro-exhibitions, New Realities features the perspectives and studio practices of junior level Fine Art students attending Ringling College of Art and Design.

Art Center Sarasota, 707 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

[SOON]  BUSINESS: SRQ MEDIA's SMARTgirl Mentorship Summit, Applications Open , March 15, 9:30am to 1:30pm

Applications are open for this year's SRQ Magazine SMARTgirl Mentorship and Leadership Luncheon taking place on Friday, March 15, 2019 from 9:30am-1:30pm at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota. The free program provides 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th grade girls attending school in Sarasota and Manatee counties with career pathway exploration, STEM coding workshops and a luncheon featuring speakers presenting on the topic of overcoming challenges, being a leader and achieving success. The sessions and workshops are led by some of the community’s top women leaders including the ambassadors of the Hear Me Roar Leadership Circle.

Free program, no cost to apply or attend. Submit your application online at SRQMAG.COM/SMARTGIRl by Thursday, January 31, 2019 to be considered. All materials for the conference will be provided, including lunch and snacks. Limited spots available, apply early.

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

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Stan Kenton All Star Big Band , March 17

With a 17-piece orchestra, the program includes such well-loved favorites as “Here’s That Rainy Day,” ”September Song,” “Over the Rainbow,” “Minor Blues,” “Artistry in Rhythm” and many more from the American popular music and jazz artist.

Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave., Venice

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Mallets and Forethought , March 21

A percussionist of great versatility and virtuosity, George Nickson brings the marimba to the fore in this concert that includes selections from Debussy’s “Children’s Corner Suite” and “Over The Rainbow” by Harlan/Oetemo. Principal percussionist for the Sarasota Orchestra and founding member of ensemblenewSRQ, Nickson has been hailed across the country, including as “a performer handling his role with ease and flair” by The New York Times.

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

[SOON]  GALA: Ain't Misbehaving , March 21 – April 7

A musical tribute to the black musicians of the Harlem Renaissance and the new “swing” beat, experience the jazz scene—uptown, downtown, raffish and startling beautiful atmosphere. Come, swing and jive to such songs as “I Can’t Give You Anything But Love,” “I’m Going To Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter,” “The Joint is Jumpin’” and, of course, “Ain’t Misbehavin’.”

Stone Hall: Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Ave. W, Bradenton

[SOON]  THEATER: Cirque Des Voix , March 22 – March 24

A Key Chorale special event, Cirque des Voix is a performance unlike any other. See world-class circus artists combine with the 100+ voices of the Key Chorale and the musical mastery of the 40-piece Cirque Orchestra to produce one of the most unforgettable productions you’ll ever experience.

The Mall University Town Center, 140 University Town Center Dr., Sarasota,

[SOON]  GALA: Avant-Garde: A Magical Evening , March 23

Wizards and sorcerers. Magicians and illusionists. Fairies and elves. Genies and dragons. Singer Stevie Nicks or Titania, Queen of Fairyland? Harry Potter or Harry Houdini? Midsummer Night’s Dream or Puff the Magic Dragon? The magical world beckons you to step through the sliding doors of illusion and onto the dazzling Ringling College campus, where we will honor the most wondrous beings in our realm - Ringling College students. Reserve your seats now for this spellbinding evening.

[SOON]  GALA: HospitaBull , March 26

Enjoy a night of exquisite dining while supporting USF Sarasota-Manatee’s Hospitality Management program. This dining experience is organized, prepared and served by USFSM students and faculty. Students in the restaurant management, event management and food prep courses organize, plan and execute each aspect of the event from start to finish.

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

[SOON]  BUSINESS: Collaboration Celebration , March 26, 11:30am – 1pm

How does a place create a community? We know from research that a person’s zip code is a more reliable determinant of health than their genetic code. Why then, do we still struggle with poverty, addiction and homelessness in this region of beauty and prosperity?

Join us for our annual luncheon in March, where guest speaker Elma J. Felix-Lamontagne, AICP, will deliver a presentation about how places help to shape the identity of a community.

The Westin Sarasota, 100 Marina View Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Piano Pizzazz Meets Fiddle Finesse , March 26

Good food and great music is always a perfect pairing. In this performance, enjoy a "West Side Story Medley", "Sweet Georgia Brown", "And I Love Her", "Fiddler on the Toof Medley" and a nod to the classics with "Beethoven With a Twist!"

Plantation Golf & Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd., Venice

[SOON]  HEALTH: Women & Medicine Educational Luncheon , March 29, 10:30AM - 1:30PM

This year marks the 7th Anniversary of Women & Medicine and will support the Internal Medicine Residency Program at SMH. This educational luncheon features informative presentations and discussions from Sarasota Memorial Physicians. The topic of this luncheon will be, How to Be A Parter in Good Health [Making the Most of Your Physician Relationship]

Michael's on East, 1212 East Avenue, Sarasota

[SOON]  GALA: Meow Masquerade , March 29, 6:30 PM - 10:00PM

Cat Depot’s Mardi Gras-themed, Meow Masquerade, will take place at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota on Friday, March 29, 2019 from 6:30-10 p.m. Guests will be treated to a variety of entertainment featuring performances by The Circus Arts Conservatory, Gumbo Boogie Zydeco Band, and DJ Jay. The good times will roll with a delicious plated dinner, handcrafted cocktails, premium raffle, and silent auction. Enjoy an interactive photo booth with TapSnap, and face painting by Pixie Painting. Tickets are $150. Please email claudiah@catdepot.orgor call 941-366-2404 for more information. Tickets available online – www.catdepot.org

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

[SOON]  FOOD: Wine Walk to Ca' d'Zan , March 29, 6:00PM

This is a wine pairing experience unlike any other. Each individually themed station features exciting food and wine pairings along with activities and entertainment throughout the Ringling estate. Taste a variety of wines from Total Wine & More and engage with their wine experts while enjoying culinary delights from Sarasota's top caterers.

The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota

[SOON]  FOOD: Beer, Bands, and BBQ , March 30, 11:00AM - 4:00PM

The Music Compound’s 5th annual Beer, Bands & BBQ is back on March 30, 2019 from 11 am - 4 pm. It will be hosted at a new location, the courtyard of The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime, 821 Apricot Ave. Sarasota.

Look forward to 10 bands including Kara & Kaleidogroove, students from Music Compound will perform between sets. Food trucks and beer will be available throughout the day.

Admission is free and you are encouraged to bring your own lawn chair.

VIP wrist bands are available for $15 and include food samplings and a beer.

The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime, 821 Apricot Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Circus Angel Scavenger Hunt , March 30

Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls, Join us for the Greatest Circus Scavenger Hunt in Sarasota!  Fun for all ages, The Circus Angel Scavenger Hunt is a benefit for the Showpeople's Winter Quarters, established in 2015 by The Circus and Traveling Shows Retirement Project, Inc.a 501 (c) (3) organization which helps provide affordable housing assistance for elderly or infirm circus performers in the Southwest Florida area.

The scavenger hunt  includes 6 circus theme stops, live entertainment , giveaways and gift bags. You will have enough time to enjoy each stop, solve riddles with clues to find the little circus angels missing wing. The Grand finale is at 2:30 back at the registration hall at St. Martha's Church on Orange Avenue in Sarasota where the “All Aboard” Grand Prize package, a gourmet dinner served in the private "Silver Car'  on an Original Circus Train, will be awarded to the winning team of up to 6 people. 

Scavenger Hunt is by auto, in and around 5 miles of downtown Sarasota. Important: this is not a race. Tickets are reserved by emailing srqlynn@gmail.com  and are available for purchase from The Circus and Traveling Shows Retirement Project, Inc. on Venmo  via Lynn McDonald @ Lynn-McDonald-16384.  $25 per person. Two to six people per car to qualify. 

[SOON]  BUSINESS: SkillSHARE: Mentoring at the Speed of Life, June 13 , June 13, 5-7:30pm

Join us for an evening of deep-dive peer mentorship at the spring SkillSHARE: Mentorship at the Speed of Life on Thursday, June 13, 2019 at the SRQ Studios at 331 South Pineapple Avenue in Downtown Sarasota from 5-7:30pm. Register online by submitting questions from the areas in which you'd like to be paired with a peer mentor for the evening at SRQMAG.COM/SKILLSHARE. Light bites and wine. Registration closes on Friday, May 17, 2019; the registration fee is $25 per person. Limited to 16 mentees. For more information, contact SRQ MEDIA at 941-365-7702 x204.

SRQ Studios, 331 S. Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236

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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