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SRQ DAILY Aug 21, 2019

Wednesday Philanthropy Edition

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Wednesday Philanthropy Edition

"It's part fun and part hard work."

- Dr. Fern Tavalin, Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County
 

[Arts and Culture]  Arts and Culture Alliance Seeks Panelists for TDC/A Grants Program
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

Each year, the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County distributes more than $2 million to arts organizations in the county, through Sarasota County’s Tourist Development Cultural/Arts grants program. Applicants for TDC/A grants must demonstrate both artistic excellence in their proposed projects, as well as tourism appeal—as arts remain an important economic driver for the county—and these applications are reviewed each year by a volunteer panel of Sarasota County residents. And as the arts and culture community gears up for season, the Arts and Cultural Alliance has announced that the organization is now accepting applications for those interested in serving as members for this year’s panel.

“It’s part fun and part hard work,” says Dr. Fern Tavalin, TDC/A Grant Manager, and the commitment will last throughout the season. Beginning in October, panelists must commit to attending several arts and cultural events made possible by previous grants, to give them a sense for what kind of projects the program looks to support each year. But with a pair of complimentary tickets, they won’t have to attend alone. Panelists will also work with Tavalin to get to know the grant process and what successful applications typically look like. “Before they read the projects they will be scoring, they get a chance to read the ones from last year,” she says.

This is all preparation for when the application review process begins in earnest, come the following March. With all applications in hand, panelists attend an in-depth orientation program that further explicates the grant approval process, including the particular criteria used to assess each new application. Decisions are not to be made via personal preference, but scored on these pre-set parameters. “We put a lot of emphasis on fairness,” says Tavalin. Because the program has grown so much, it often supports as many as 38 organizations a year, winnowed from many more applicants, and Tavalin says panelists should expect to put in anywhere from 40 to 60 hours reviewing applications and interviewing artists. The process often extends through April and May as well.

Those looking to serve on this panel must live in Sarasota County, and should have a range of expertise, with experience not only in the arts, but also the administrative or business side of the arts. The Arts and Cultural Alliance has also expressed a particular need for visual or performing artists to serve on this year’s panel, but Tavalin believes the experience to be a valuable one for all chosen, whether lifers or new arrivals, regular culture-hounds or recovering homebodies.

“It exposes the panelists to organizations that they otherwise would not know anything about,” she says. “So it’s good for that broad exposure, and it’s also good for people who are new to our community, because they can learn about the arts and culture here.”

Applications to serve on the TDC/A grants program panel are currently open. The deadline for application is August 30. 

2019-2020 TDC/A Grant Panelists Application

[Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation]  Donor Profile

When Minnesota natives Gary and Barbara Rodkin first came to Sarasota in the mid-1990s, they were immediately captivated by the area. “It was our first time on the west coast of Florida,” Gary says. “We fell in love with Sarasota and Siesta Key. That was really the beginning.”

They called the area home for a few years, until Gary’s career as a “corporate warrior” took the family north. He served as chairman and CEO of PepsiCo Beverages and Foods North America, and then as CEO of ConAgra Foods in Omaha, Nebraska. Regardless of where the Rodkins lived, they maintained strong roots in Sarasota. “We were part of the community when we came here,” Barbara says. “Our kids went to school here, so we got to learn a lot about this community. Gary was on some boards here. And we didn’t lose those connections.”

Philanthropy has always been a core tenet for the Rodkins. The couple has given to a number of organizations including Rutgers University, their alma mater. When Gary retired in 2015, and they decided to split their time between Greenwich, Connecticut and Sarasota, they began researching ways to give back to their adopted home. “We were looking to be able to make an impact where there was a real need in the community,” Gary says. They found that need in the Sarasota Memorial Community Specialty Clinic, a facility where volunteer physicians and a small team of SMH staff have been providing medical care to uninsured and underinsured residents for more than two decades.

“What really struck us about this program was that it was so well-established,” Barbara says. “As we explored it further, met the people running it, and came to understand what they were doing, we saw the potential to serve significantly more people.” The Rodkins have pledged $1 million to grow the clinic’s capacity and significantly increase the number of patients it can serve. Their other aim is to shine a spotlight on the program, which up to now has been operating with little fanfare, and encourage others to get involved. “The program is so under the radar that people don’t really know about it,” Barbara says.

Gary and Barbara hope the exposure their donation generates will encourage a new crop of doctors to volunteer their services for those in need. “We think it’s terrific that doctors are willing to give their time,” says Gary. “We hope that as the story gets out, more doctors will volunteer.”

The couple intends to stay fully involved and hands-on as the program evolves. “An important word for us in our giving is accountability,” Gary says. “When we give, we want to ensure that it’s going to be deployed in an effective and efficient way, so the outcomes they’re looking for truly come to be.” 

Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation

[Community]  The Bay Hosts Two Community Outreach Meetings Today

Today, August 21, The Bay—the initiative driving the redevelopment of the under-utilized 53 acres along Sarasota Bay into a public park—is hosting another set of Community Outreach meetings as part of its ongoing efforts to engage and collaborate with the people of the community. This is an opportunity to learn about The Bay, ask questions and meet the team behind the largest open-use park development in Sarasota. Join Bill Waddill and the design team behind The Bay as they share the latest on the evolved design of Phase One and give the community a view into their progress towards realizing the possibilities of The Bay.

In efforts to reach as many individuals as possible, they will be hosting two sets of outreach meetings, one in the afternoon and one in the evening. The first is from 1:30pm to 3pm and will be held at Sarasota Municipal Auditorium. The second is from 6pm to 7:30pm at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe. 

The Bay Sarasota

[Philanthropy]  Five Local Animal Welfare Organizations Receive $100,000 in FAF Grants

Ongoing collaboration helped five local animal welfare organizations receive FAF (Florida Animal Friends) grants totaling nearly $100,000 last week, as they continue to try to stem the tide of unwanted litters of puppies and kittens in the Southwest Florida region. The Animal Welfare League of Charlotte County, Animal Rescue Coalition, Animal Network, Inc., Humane Society of Manatee County and Gulf Shore Animal League each received amounts ranging from $15,000 to almost $25,000, making FAF’s contribution to the 2019-2020 trap-neuter-return (TNR) and spay/neuter programs in the region an unprecedented amount. Additional support is being provided by Feline Friends of Southwest Florida, a local trapping and transport charitable organization. FAF is a private entity in Florida that disburses revenue made on the sale of the Florida Animal Friend Specialty License Plates.

Through these programs, there will be more than 2,000 sterilization surgeries provided over two counties, which are predicted to lower the births of unwanted puppies and kittens in those areas. 

Humane Society of Manatee County

[Philanthropy]  Goodwill Manasota Recognized for Excellence by Goodwill Industries International

Goodwill Manasota earned significant recognition during the recent Goodwill Industries International summer conference. The organization won the “Retail Excellence: Market Leadership by Share of Used Goods” award (for the sixth consecutive year) for having the highest market penetration of its donor market, the “Retail Excellence: Market Leadership by Donations” award (for the fifth year in a row) for capitalizing on the highest proportion of its available used goods market, and the "GILPS Organizational Safety" award (its first), recognizing the organization’s commitment to positively influence safety policies and practices that strengthen its Goodwill. The organization is evaluated in the medium-sized agency category, which includes Goodwill agencies with revenues between $26.9 and $57.3 million. During the annual conference, Goodwill Industries International recognizes Goodwill agencies that have maximized revenues, capitalized on the highest proportion of the available used goods market and been efficient in running their operations. 

Goodwill Manasota

[Philanthropy]  Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Suncoast Named Large Agency of the Year

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast has been recognized as the Large Agency of the Year by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. The organization was selected based on growth in the number of children served, quality and length of mentoring matches, and increased revenues, which ensure the agency can continue to grow and serve more children. The agency also made key strategic decisions that have allowed it to innovate and grow over the past year. The winning agency has focused on growing the number and maintaining the quality of mentoring relationships (“matches”) between caring adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and youth (“Littles”). This past year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast has served over 1,800 youth across a 10 county footprint.  

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast

[Government]  Manatee County Clerk Offers New Online Service to Certify Official Records

The Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller has partnered with TrieData to offer the ability to electronically certify official records online. Called Clerk E-Certify, this new service uses advanced encryption features that aim to produce secure, tamper-proof electronically certified copies of official records in minutes. Traditionally, in order to obtain a certified copy of an official record, a phone call or trip was required to the Clerk’s office to have a paper copy certified, stamped and delivered. The public can now access this new online service by visiting the official records search page through the website below. To search, simply locate the official record, and once the image of the document appears, click on purchase certified copy from E-Certify to begin the process.

To learn more, visit the website below. 

Clerk E-Certify



[TODAY]  FOOD: Can Release: Oktoberfest Märzen Lager , August 21, 11am–11pm

This year’s Oktoberfest is an homage to the more robust Märzen lagerbiers served in Munich during Oktoberfests past. With pleasant bready aromas and a medium body, this bright amber lager boasts a lightly toasted, malty sweetness complemented by a spicy hop character that balances its malt base and dries it out a bit on the finish. 12oz. 6-packs will be available in the Taproom and limited distribution is anticipated.

Motorworks Brewing, 1014 9th St. West, Bradenton

[TODAY]  THEATER: The Cottage , July 31 – August 24

Set in the English countryside in 1923, this sexy comedy of love and betrayal unfolds when Sylvia Van Kipness decides to expose her secret love affair to her husband. The true meanings of love and marriage are called into question as a surprising, hilarious web of secrets unravels in this ridiculous—potentially murderous—romantic comedy.

Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave., Sarasota

[TODAY]  THEATER: Scorch , July 26 – August 25

For Kes, falling in love for the first time happened online. But the exhilarating fantasy quickly turns into a terrifying reality when the young teen is accused of criminal conduct. Inspired by real cases of ‘gender fraud,’ Scorch is a touching and provocative story of love though the eyes of a gender-curious teen.

Urbanite Theatre, 1487 2nd St., Sarasota.

[TODAY]  FILM: Sun Xun: Time Spy , August 11 – February 16

A mesmerizing 3D animated film by Chinese painter and draughtsman, Sun Xun incorporates traditional techniques including ink painting, charcoal drawing and woodblock printing. He uses analog and digital technologies to explore pressing concerns of the time.

The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road

[TODAY]  THEATER: The Swingaroos: Hollywood Serenade , July 23 – August 30

Back by popular demand, The Swingaroos return to FST with a brand new show. Inspired by the Golden Age of Hollywood, this jazzy music revue pays tribute to such icons as Frank Sinatra, Cab Calloway, and Fred Astaire. Travel back in time this summer to the ‘30s and ‘40s when big bands and swing dancing were all the rage. 

Florida Studio Threatre, 1241 N Palm Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: Hungry Ghost Festival and Psychic Fair , August 24, 11am–4pm

The Hungry Ghost Festival marks the time of year when tables are turned and the deceased are believed to visit the living. The gates of the afterlife are thrown open and ghosts are free to roam the earth in search of food, entertainment and mischief.

Though the Hungry Ghost Festival gets some acclaim as the “Chinese Halloween,” the holiday actually offers a great opportunity to teach kids about caring for the destitute and less fortunate.

The Spirit University, 373 Braden Ave.

[SOON]  GALA: Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Kick Off Celebration , August 29, 530pm

Join us to Kick Off the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer season and for the reveal of the 2019 Real Men Wear Pink candidates.  Hear about the American Cancer Society’s lifechanging research and patient programs that are funded by Making Strides and Real Men Wear Pink events. Light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be served. RSVP is required. Please RSVP by Monday, August 26th to Lucy.Fox@cancer.org or 941-328-3755. MakingStridesWalk.org/SarasotaManatee

The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  FOOD: Caregivers Comfort Socializing Lunch , September 2, 1215pm

Julie Cook Downing, President of Caregivers' Comfort Creations, LLC and Doctors Hospital Caregiver Support Group Facilitator, hosts a monthly lunch at The Rosemary restaurant. This event provides caregivers some time to relax, enjoy themselves and eat super delicious food with others sharing similar situations. The lunch takes place from 12:15pm-1:45pm. For lunch details, contact Julie at caregivercomfort@aol.com.

The Rosemary, 411 North Orange Avenue

[SOON]  THEATER: Who Love You, Musical Tribute to Frankie Valli and Beyond , September 3 – October 13

Experience the signature songs and dance moves of one of the most successful acts in music history: Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. A musical tribute to the group that has sold more than 100 million records worldwide, Who Loves You will have you clapping and singing along to hits like “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Walk Like a Man,” “Rag Doll,” “December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night),” and many more you know and love.

Florida Studio Threatre, 1241 N Palm Ave., Sarasota

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Stars, Stripes and Style 26th Annual Fashion Show , September 4, 11am

Join us in celebration of the Women's Council of Realtors Sarasota Network 26th Annual Fashion show on Wednesday, September 4 at 11:00 am. WCR will honor America's veterans at the Stars, Stripes and Style fashion show featuring fashions by Goodwill Manasota. Enjoy lunch by The Hyatt Sarasota and a fun filled fashion show by local realtors and business partners. There will be a live auction, lotto tree raffle, silent auction and shopping at tabletop boutiques.

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

[SOON]  FILM: Gazebo Starlight Cinema Series , September 6

Join the Gazebo Starlight Cinema series with this month’s movie: X-Men. With a screen stretched around the Gazebo pillars and family flicks back-projected from within, what better place than the facing grassy knoll to relax in a beach chair or curl up on a blanket? Bring the whole family to kick off your weekend while enjoying the park! Support local Venice Avenue businesses by bringing snacks, dinner, ice cream (or gelato!) to enjoy during the movie.

Downtown Venice Centennial Park, 200 West Venice Ave.

[SOON]  MUSIC: The Goldtones , September 7, 8pm

The Goldtones have been called the “hottest doo-wop group in Florida” and entertain their audiences with the sweet sounds of street-corner harmony and all the favorites from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. The group is back by popular demand after performing at Venice Theatre for five years in a row. Proceeds benefit the Venice Theatre Guild’s Scholarship Fund!

Venice Theatre MainStage, 140 W Tampa Ave.

[SOON]  BUSINESS: 14th Annual Intertape Polymer Group Leadership Breakfast , September 13, 730am

Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County will honor Jaime DiDomenico, Cool Today/Plumbing Today/Energy Today President, and Dr. Rachel Shelley, Booker High School Principal, at the 14th Annual Intertape Polymer Group (IPG) Leadership Breakfast for their commitment to empowering our community’s future leaders to reach their full potential. The event will take place on Friday, September 13, from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. at the Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Club, located at 3100 Fruitville Road in Sarasota.  Individual tickets are $50 per person and can be purchased at bgcsarasota.com. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Please contact Tanya Orr, Community Engagement Manager, for more information by calling (941) 366-3911 or emailing torr@bgcsarasota.com.

Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Club, 3100 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34237

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