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SRQ DAILY Sep 20, 2019

Friday Weekend Edition

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Friday Weekend Edition

"Circus performers aren't just physical performers."

- Andres Leon, Circus Magnet Program
 

[Museum]  Myths and Myth-conceptions at The Bishop Museum
Philip Lederer, Phil.Lederer@srqme.com

A warning to all who dare enter The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature this Saturday: Here Be Monsters…

With the arrival of the latest exhibition, Giants, Dragons & Unicorns: The World of Mythic Creatures, families and children of all ages travel back in time to a world where sea monsters ruled the ocean, cyclops roamed the hills and majestic griffins roosted among the rocks—all the while examining the fossil record to understand how past explorers (mis)interpreted ancient remains as evidence of myths and monsters. Organized by the American Museum of Natural History in New York, the exhibition runs through January 5.

“There’s a great science story here,” says Matthew Woodside, chief curator and director of exhibitions at The Bishop. “And it’s a story about how humans have come to have a better, realistic understanding of how the world works, through science and changing our methods of observation.”

Divided into four sections—Sea Monsters; Mermaids; Giants, Griffins and Unicorns; and Dragons—museum-goers will not only indulge in great tales and images of these mythical beasts, but also take a look at how well-meaning and even scientifically minded people came to these wild conclusions. Learn how a giant squid’s tentacle could have birthed the myth of the kraken, while dodging sculpted tentacles sprouting from the ground. Touch a narwhal tusk that would have been mistaken for a unicorn’s horn and pose next to a horse-sized model. See the fossilized protoceratops skull that Scythian miners believed to be the beaked remains of the mystical griffin some 2,000 years ago. And with multiple mermaid models and replicas on display, ponder how disparate cultures and civilizations came to startlingly similar mythologies. “It helps us to understand that we are all connected as a species,” says Woodside.

Not without its interactive component, hands-on visitors can create their own virtual dragon on an available touchscreen and watch it fly off into the sunset on the larger monitor above, or experiment with the scaled-down bones of a mammoth skeleton to see how early discoverers may have mistaken them for the bones of a fearsome cyclops.

Importantly, says Woodside, the exhibition is not trying to debunk or deflate any childhood dreams, but rather present the information available and tell a story of scientific wonder that kids can respond to. “Hopefully they’ll come away with the idea that the world is a fascinating place,” he says, “and that it’s important to look carefully and think about how we know what we know.”

Opening Saturday, September 21, Giants, Dragons & Unicorns: The World of Mythic Creatures will be on display at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature through January 5. 

Pictured: Skulls of the dinosaur Protoceratops can be found in Mongolia’s Gobi Desert. Such fossils may have influenced descriptions of the mythic griffin. Photo by C. Chesek. Courtesy of AMNH.

[Circus]  CAC and Sarasota High Unveil Circus Magnet Program
Andrew Fabian

Popular culture is littered with fictional schools for kids with special abilities—Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Brakebills College for Magical Pedagogy, Professor Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters. Now, the real, nonfictional city of Sarasota can claim its own special school with the creation of the nation’s only Circus Magnet Program. As part of a collaboration between the Circus Arts Conservatory and Sarasota County Schools, Sarasota High will offer students with an interest in circus arts the opportunity to incorporate the practice of traditional circus skills into their academic curriculum.

The curriculum relies heavily on existing state-approved physical education programs, but the course material has been augmented and adapted to the specific requirements of circus arts. “We try to cover everything,” says Andres Leon, Training Programs Coach for the first class of students. “We teach the proper way to stretch, what body parts are being used for each performance, how to take care of your hands; we even talk about nutrition a little bit.” Leon believes the ideal student would, like him, be someone who maybe has experience playing high school sports but has never felt excited by throwing or kicking a ball.

That doesn’t mean the skills cultivated by the program are limited to physical aptitudes. “Circus performers aren’t just physical performers,” says Leon. “They’re worried about stage direction, lighting, costumes, rigging and safety.” And it’s in these other areas where the program sees the most potential for growth in the future. Proponents of the program, like Leon, hope that they can eventually entice students interested in learning the production, business and marketing side of the circus in addition to the performance realm. These other facets of the circus can give students applied knowledge of how productions are managed and lead to jobs in any field where selling tickets is paramount.

For now, the program will only be available to Sarasota High students because of their proximity to the CAC facility. “Transportation is one of the biggest issues for us to figure out,” says Leon, “but the plan is for the program to be available to more schools.” The first class of students is split into two groups, with each group attending a double-block period of an hour and 45 minutes. At the moment, students in any grade can apply, though the program hopes to enroll mostly freshmen who can develop over the full four years of their high school education. The goal is to have students graduate with a portfolio of professional skills and performances that they can leverage into auditions and careers. Most importantly, the program promises to instill the self-assuredness that comes with physical mastery and the behind-the-scenes knowledge of what it takes to produce one of the greatest shows on earth. 

Pictured: Andres Leon leads a class on the circus arts. Photo by Cliff Roles.

[GoodBite]  Gonna Party Like It's 1999
Brittany Mattie, brittany.mattie@srqme.com

A local charmer turned 20 years old this September and we haven’t forgotten to wish them a happy birthday. J.R.’s Old Packinghouse Cafe candidly threw it back to the late ‘90s with a promotion all month long to celebrate its decade milestone—a special menu with prices from the year 1999. So with the end of September looming in sight, don’t forget to snag J.R. and his family’s invite to indulge in authentic Cuban dishes and American comfort staples at nostalgic bargains in its new backyard venue.

After dancing a hole in the mud to one of the many killer bands playing every night for the month of September, “kick up your boots” to order some grub from the 20th anniversary “Come Back for Roll Back” 1999-priced menu. From homemade chicken empanadas and Cuban bowls, to BBQ pork nachos and Boom Boom shrimp, wipe the mess from your mouth for $8 each. And with a few extra bucks left over in your pocket for an adult beverage, take advantage of a classic or berry mojito with Captain Morgan or the Packing House Anniversary Punch with a tequila floater, for a whopping $7. Whether you make it in in the next 10 days, or thereafter, it’s always a darn good time at this Old Florida treasure. 

Photo courtesy of J.R.'s Old Packinghouse Cafe, 987 South Packinghouse Rd., Sarasota, 941-371-9358.

For live music updates and more information, follow J.R.'s here.

[Gallery]  Alfstad& Editions Hosts Pop-Up Exhibition Tonight

Alfstad& Editions will be hosting a pop-up show tonight, September 20, from 6pm to 9pm. The gallery will present a group of prints on display in the Alfstad& Editions studio in the Rosemary District. All are welcomed to stop by, meet some of the artists and enjoy the art. Works by Mark Anderson, Meagan Hindel, Alain Huin, Matt Coombs, Diana Lueken, Michael Wyshock, Marsha Owett and Chris Schumaker will all be included in the exhibition. 

Alfstad& Editions

[Education]  Ringling College Programs Receive Top Rankings in Rookies World School Rankings

This week, two Ringling College of Art and Design programs were ranked top global programs in The Rookies World School Rankings 2019. The Department of Motion Design was ranked #2 in the “Top six 3D Motion Graphics Schools 2019” and the Game Art program was named #3 Game Design program and the top degree program among the “Top 10 Game Design Schools 2019.” These rankings are based on the “quality of student portfolios that are submitted to [the] judging panel which best reflect the recruitment interview process.” The programs were selected out of 3,548 entrants from 500 schools, 89 countries, and 38,838 uploads. This year, fourth-year Motion Design student Douglas Alberts won the category and was named Rookie of the Year for 3D Motion Graphics. In addition, the department took three of the 16 finalist spots in the category. 

Ringling College of Art and Design

[Correction]  Correction: Sarasota County and Omeza Link Up for International Coastal Cleanup Day

In an article published in the Wednesday, September 18 issue of SRQ Daily, "Sarasota County and Omeza Link Up for International Coastal Cleanup Day", a quotation that came from a third party media alert was mistakenly attributed to Omeza COO Sarah Kitlowski. That same article gave the impression that Omeza had part in organizing this Saturday's Ringling Bridge Park Coastal Cleanup. While a proud participant, Omeza is not an organizer for the Sarasota County "Keep Sarasota County Beautiful" program. 



[TODAY]  MUSIC: Van Wezel Friday Fest featuring Ari and the Alibis , September 20

FREE outdoor summertime concert series! The events run from 5-9pm and are located on the Bayside Lawn of the Van Wezel. 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. Rounding out Friday Fest 2019 is the high-energy band, Ari and the Alibis! Infusing Funk, Jazz and Samba with Blues Soul and Rock, this 5-piece group has earned two Grammy® nods (Best Rock Song and Best Rock Performance) and an award for “Best original song by a local group” in the Bradenton Times “Best of the Bay.” Don’t miss Ari’s powerhouse voice filled with emotion and strength – live at the Van Wezel’s Friday Fest!

Van Wezel

[TODAY]  GALLERY: CFAS: Halflants + Pichette , September 12 – October 10

Center for Architecture Sarasota opens its fifth season at the McCulloch Pavilion with its new Solo Architecture Series. The first exhibit of the series features the Sarasota firm of Halflants + Pichette. The opening reception is September 12 from 5:30pm until 7:30pm. Light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be served. Information and registration is available at the CFAS website.

McCulloch Pavilion, 265 South Orange Ave., Sarasota.

[TODAY]  MUSEUM: The Fabric of India , July 7 – October 13

This exhibition showcases over 140 examples drawn from the internationally-renowned holdings of London’s Victoria and Albert Museum and private collections. This exposition illustrates the variety, technical sophistication and adaptability of Indian textiles from the fifteenth to the twenty-first centuries. Through a range of historical dress, carefully preserved fabrics, and cutting-edge fashion, discover how Indian textiles have been interwoven with religion, politics and global trade for centuries. Or join the Curator of Asian Art Dr. Rhiannon Paget for a tour at the Gallery Walk and Talk, 10:30am–6pm on July 25. 

The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Road

[SOON]  GALA: ACS Real Men Wear Pink Fashion Show , September 21, 5pm

Don’t miss the 2019 Real Men Wear Pink fashion show at 5pm on September, 21st in the Grand Court at The Mall at UTC. The show will feature Sarasota and Manatee candidates and each man will be dressed by one of the stores in the UTC Mall. These men are raising awareness and funds to fight breast cancer in our community.  Public is Welcome. Reserved Seating available. Contact Bethany Lynch at bethanyk.lynch@cancer.org to reserve your seat. Let's support these men in our community who are dedicated to fighting breast cancer.

The Mall at UTC, 140 University Town Center Dr, Sarasota, FL 34243

[SOON]  SPORTS: Totally Tailgate Benefiting Girls Inc. , September 21, 630pm

Get ready to tailgate at the 4th Annual Totally Tailgate benefiting Girls Inc. of Sarasota County. Girls Inc. invites you to the largest tailgate party under one roof with fan favorite food and drinks, classic games, raffles, multiple screens to watch your favorite football games and the opportunity to brag about the team nearest and dearest to your heart. Come out and represent your favorite team and support Girls Inc.

Michael's on East, 1212 South East Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34239

[SOON]  GALA: Sertoma Speakeasy and Casino Night , September 21, 7pm

Come out and support Sertoma Kids at the Speakeasy and Casino Night featuring casino-style games, hor d-oeuvres, cocktails, silent auction and raffle. Entertainment provided by Bill Buchman's Art of Jazz Band. Flappers, Hollywood Glam and Ganster attire is encouraged. True to Speakeasy tradition, the party will be held at an exclusive private location. Password and location will be provided via email after purchasing tickets. All proceeds benefit Sertoma Kids, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit outpatient speech clinic funded by Sertoma Club of Greater Sarasota. Purchase tickets at SertomaKids.org/news.

Private Club in Downtown Sarasota

[SOON]  SEMINAR: Social Entrepreneurship Conference , September 21, 10am-3pm

Join Cross College Alliance at 10am at the Sudakoff Conference Center for the inaugural Social Entrepreneurship Conference. This free event features panels addressing social issues, green initiatives, and creative endeavors, as well as an incubator program and contest with cash prize. Creative professionals will also be on hand for student portfolio reviews. The conference brings together students from the CCA’s member institutions: New College of Florida, Ringling College of Art and Design, State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota, and University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee. Free registration at seconference2019.eventbrite.com.

Sudakoff Conference Center, New College of Florida, 5845 General Dougher Place, Sarasota, FL 34243

[SOON]  SEMINAR: Forty Carrots Free Community Speaker Event , September 26, 7pm-830pm

Register now for the Forty Carrots 17th annual Free Educational Community Speaker Event, “Raising Human Beings: Creating a Collaborative Partnership with Your Child,” featuring renowned child psychologist and best-selling author Ross W. Greene, Ph.D. Greene will share how to cultivate a better parent-child relationship using his empirically supported model of collaborative problem solving. Discover how to nurture empathy, resilience and independence, improve communication and avoid power struggles. RSVP is required. Register at www.fortycarrots.org.

Riverview High School Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL

[SOON]  SEMINAR: Grey Matters A Symposium on Alzheimer's Research , September 27, 11am

Join us at the Grey Matters luncheon symposium at 11am on September 27th at The Ritz-Carlton. The luncheon will be hosted by The Roskamp Institute, and will involve presentations and interactive Q&As from their leadership team in addition to featuring New York Times bestselling author Kimberley Williams-Paisley as the Keynote Speaker. Attendees will hear updates on various areas of brain health, potential treatments and information for caregivers, preventative measures, early symptom warnings and clinical research updates regarding the potential for new treatment. Proceeds raised go towards research and development at The Roskamp Institute. 

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

[SOON]  SPORTS: Real Men Wear Pink Crawl for a Cure , September 28, 11am-7pm

Join the American Cancer Society on September 28 for the inaugural Real Men Wear Pink Sarasota Manatee Crawl for a Cure. ACS’s football themed pub crawl will transport guests from one sports bar to another, so as not to miss any part of College Game Day! Ticket includes trolley ride to 5 stops, food and drink specials along the way, Real Men Wear Pink swag and goody bag and dinner at the final stop. The day will include raffle prizes, contest for the “Best in Pink” and more. All funds raised through this event support lifesaving research and essential patient programs and services for those affected by breast cancer. Ticket are $75. Contact Bethany Lynch at bethanyk.lynch@cancer.org to purchase tickets.

Evie's Tavern on Main Street, 1560 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  FOOD: 3rd Annual Taste of New Orleans Benefit Dinner , October 5, 7pm

Truly Valued presents its 3rd Annual Taste of New Orleans Benefit Dinner with speaker Edward James III. Enjoy an evening of elegant dining and live entertainment by the Soul Sensations. Proceeds support Truly Valued programs and services for youth designed to provide knowledge, skills and inspiration that will help them grow to lead happy and successful lives as adults. If you are unable to attend the event, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution. Tickets are $50. Visit www.trulyvalued.org to purchase tickets. Sponsorship and underwriting opportunities are available.

Laurel Oak Country Club, 2700 Gary Player Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34240

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: Hotel Indigo Oktoberfest , October 5, 3pm-7pm

Joining the recent “boom” of the Rosemary District, Hotel Indigo is hosting their first annual Oktoberfest event on the premises of their hotel with a cultural, community event supporting Mayors’ Feed the Hungry Charity, over a three-day celebration of food, music, games and neighborhood connections. Taking place in the parking lot, the main event will be the Oktoberfest on October 5 from 3-7pm, including Bavarian beer and food, Derby games, Stein Holding competition, Das Boot Chugging Competition and much more. There will also be an Oktoberfest Happy Hour from 5-8pm on Friday October 4, and an Oktoberfest Brunch from 11am-2pm on October 6.

Hotel Indigo's Back Parking Lot , 1223 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  FOOD: Caregivers Comfort Socializing Lunch , October 7, 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]  DANCE: Sarasota Contemporary Dance: Voices - Rising Choreographers , October 10 – October 13

The 14th Main Stage Season will kick off with four performances, October 10-13, 2019, titled "Voices – Rising Choreographers," at which the local audience gets to see future choreographers of contemporary dance as they are just blossoming. This show presents rising choreographers who were selected by adjudication from SCD's Summer Intensive Program. The group is a combination of company members and guests invited to expand and set their work for the main stage. This idea of fostering choreographic voices is beginning to draw more and more attention to SCD's performances. 

Jane B. Cook Theatre, FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34243

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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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