SRQ DAILY Aug 12, 2020
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"People are hungry to get help during the isolating and confusing time we are in."
Venture to idyllic farmland and a red ranch on Lorraine Road in Lakewood Ranch and find South West Florida Therapy Animals (SWFTA). The 501c3 foundation provides emotional support with their fleet of therapists which include horses, dogs, cows, teacup pigs, cats, ducks, bunnies, baby goats and chickens. This comforting cache of farm animals provides psychological wellness to individuals and organizations whose members will benefit from their calming, abiding affection.
These adorable animals are specially trained to socialize and comfort guests who visit the Ranch through various types of field trips. Supervised visits with the animals, a picnic lunch under a canopy of oak trees, and a stroll through the beautiful property of organic gardens are just some of the perks of a field trip to SWFTA. Guests will also learn about each of the horses and dogs on the Ranch as well as their unique behaviors through a five-minute educational talk. SWFTA is available to bring their trained dogs and smaller trained animals to visit off-site as well. From visiting the elderly at assisted living facilities and nursing homes, to children struggling with cancer in hospitals and those with special needs or autism at schools, no matter who or where, these furry and feathered critters help stimulate some pretty special therapeutic interactions that bring smiles and a reprieve of anxiety to many.
According to UCLA Health, animals help people lower blood pressure, reduce focus on pain, lower levels of Epinephrine and Norepinephrine, reduce patient anxiety, spark memory by bringing back pleasant memories, provide a non-judgmental listener, increase the level of endorphin which promotes better immune response, and increase oxytocin levels (an important hormone promoting proper body function).
Thus, SWFTA hopes to spread the word that they're here to help the community during these times of duress with a little extra love and laughter. “People are hungry to get help during the isolating and confusing time we are in,” says Ceci Linton, SWFTA Ranch Manager. “During the days of Covid-19, we are still working with active, engaged volunteers (outside and with social distancing). Our volunteer base is incredible— mostly high school kids who love animals and want to get their elbows dirty with some digging, building, painting, or crafting on behalf of the animals.”
For more information, click here: https://www.innerbody.com/benefits-of-animal-assisted-therapy
“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think and loved more than you know.” This beloved quote from A.A. Milne is captured on a trio of canvases gracing the walls of the waiting area in All Star Children’s Foundation’s Children’s Center. The Sarasota-based artist who donated the work is Meg Krakowiak. She met All Star founder Graci McGillicuddy over a year ago and was immediately captivated by her vision and mission for All Star Children's Foundation. Krakowiak decided on the spot to make it her personal charity.
“Graci’s passion for kids comes from her heart. Every square inch of the campus contributes to their well-being, from the careful design of the homes to the vegetable garden and more,” she says. “All Star’s model lifts them up—and it truly makes a difference.” According to Krakowiak, the quote she celebrates in her triptych is all about self-worth. “Every child has incredible value,” she says. “This quote speaks a truth over every child, whether they believe it now or not. I think Milne’s words offer a beautiful affirmation of their true potential.
The Food4Families program was established by Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee in March to provide COVID-19 Emergency Relief to Manatee County residents. Since mid-March, over 400,000 meals have been provided direct to families in need through the Food4Families program. The August Food4Families distributions will take place at a new time, on a new day, in a new location. “For over 21 weeks we have been providing food to help the hungry through our Food4Families direct distributions in support of the School District of Manatee at their Summer Break Spots. As students go back to school, we are continuing our mission to provide vital nutrition through the Food4Families Program at Renaissance on 9th starting on Wednesday, August 12th,” said Maribeth Phillips, President & CEO of Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee. “We anticipate food-insecurity will continue to rise in Manatee County due to the impacts of COVID-19 and we are here to help fill the gap.” The Food4Families distributions in August will take place on: 08/12/2020, 08/19/2020, and 08/26/2020 at Renaissance on 9th/Bradenton Dream Center, located at 1816 9th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34205 from 4:00pm – 6:00pm. Due to social distancing guidelines, the drive-through distributions are designed for limited-contact. Those coming to receive food should follow signage and remain in their vehicle. Food4Families bags contain breakfast, lunch, and dinner to feed a family of five for two or more days. The food is provided free of charge.
Gulf Coast Community Foundation has awarded a generous $50,000 Arts Appreciation grant to The Ringling that will support the museum’s Art of Our Time initiative and family programming during the 2020-2021 season. The foundation’s Arts Appreciation grants provide unrestricted funding to cornerstone arts and cultural organizations in the region to help them pursue their artistic missions. “We are deeply grateful for the ongoing support of Gulf Coast Community Foundation for the exhibitions and programs presented through the Art of Our Time initiative,” said Steven High, executive director of The Ringling. “Gulf Coast’s leading sponsorship enables us to engage our community with the works of visionary contemporary artists at The Ringling.”
Children First recently received a $20,000 grant from the Wilson-Wood Foundation to support Comprehensive Services for children and families living at-risk in Sarasota County. Comprehensive Services include early childhood education, nutrition, healthcare screenings, emotional and behavioral support, and family strengthening services for parents. “With an incredibly high percentage of the families enrolled living below the Federal Poverty Level of $21,720 for a family of three, funding from the Wilson-Wood Foundation is critical to combatting the systemic pressures of poverty, pressures which create an environment of chronic stress for both children and adults. We are deeply appreciative of the Wilson-Wood Foundation for their continued support of our community’s most vulnerable who cannot afford to be left behind,” says CEO Philip Tavill.
Senator Joe Gruters joined DEP Secretary Noah Valenstein to celebrate the award of a $125,000 resiliency grant to improve the management of Sarasota County beaches. This funding will aid the development a comprehensive vulnerability study and subsequent resilience plan that will allow federal, state and local officials to collaboratively and strategically plan for sea level rise along sandy shorelines of Sarasota County. Sarasota County is home to nearly 35 miles of sandy shorelines, of which 24.2 miles have been designated as critically eroding. The county does not currently have a resilience plan for coastal management that addresses current conditions, existing management strategies and projected sea level rise. “I am pleased to be here today to celebrate this historic step for beach management in Sarasota County and across our state,” said Senator Gruters. “Beaches are economic drivers for the state and are part of our way of life, and recognizing this, we continue to make restoration of our beaches a priority. It is no surprise that this region will be leading the way in addressing the importance of incorporating sea level rise into our beach management strategy as well as regional approach to this effort.”
Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections Ron Turner is reminding voters, who are planning to vote by mail (absentee) in the August 18th primary election, that their voted ballots must be received in the elections office no later than 7:00pm on election night to be counted. Voters may return their ballots by mail or in person to any of the three elections offices in Sarasota, North Port, or Venice during regular business hours (8:30am – 5:00pm, Monday through Friday, and until 7:00pm on election night, August 18th).
Premier Sotheby’s International Realty is pleased to announce that the following associates have affiliated with the company’s Sarasota area office locations: John Brink, Downtown Sarasota, Jenna Dellatorre, St. Armands and Emily Eppinger, Downtown Sarasota. “We are very happy to welcome these new associates to Premier Sotheby’s International Realty,” said Budge Huskey, president and chief executive officer. “Their real estate industry experience, deep knowledge of the Sarasota region and commitment to excellent service lead to making customers for life. We are so pleased to work with these talented associates.”
Senior advisor Mike Migone, CCIM, of SVN Commercial Advisory Group recently coordinated the sale of 8.16 acres of land at 14503 East State Road 64 in Bradenton. Coastal Development of Bradenton, LLC was the seller. Seered 64, LLC was the buyer. Migone represented both sides of the deal. Purchase price was $1,800,000. “The rapidly expanding market Lakewood Ranch Market along SR 64 and Lorraine Road really pushed this deal over the finish line,” Said Migone, concerning the sale. Seered 64, LLC plans to develop the 3-acre corner portion of the lot into a 7-11 Gas Convenience Store. The additional 5 acres remaining is available for lease or sale. Mike Migone will remain the primary broker for the lease or sale of the remaining property.
Halfacre Construction Company, a Lakewood Ranch-based commercial construction company, is soliciting subcontractor bids for the project to add an approximately 21,000-square-foot building at Wimauma Elementary School in Wimauma, Fla. Halfacre Construction Company, the construction manager for the project, is seeking submissions from qualified subcontractors for the construction of the new classroom addition with covered walkways. Construction is scheduled to start in fall 2020, with a projected completion date of summer 2021. Bids must be received via email by Wednesday, August 19th.
For additional details or to place a bid, contact Priscilla Harsham at 941-907-9099 or pharsham@halfacreco.com.
Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) passenger traffic saw an increase of 18% from 52,845 passengers in June to 62,405 passengers in July. Compared to July of 2019, traffic at SRQ is down 57.6%. Year-to-date figures show that airport passenger traffic is down 32% with 776,430 passengers using the airport so far this year.
In addition to the increased service in August, more flights and destinations are scheduled to return over the next few months, bringing the number of destinations served at SRQ back to a level close to where it was pre-COVID-19. Currently, there are 36 nonstop destinations that can be booked out of SRQ.
“As our airlines continue to add more nonstop destinations and passenger levels continue to rise, our top priority will continue to be the safety of our passengers. We have implemented multiple layers of cleaning and sanitation measures to ensure those traveling through our facility are safe. We understand the concerns that passengers have when flying, and we will make every effort to ensure their safety when using our facility,” stated Rick Piccolo, President, CEO of the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport.
Sarasota Youth Opera’s Fall Semester will be held online this year, with enrollment now taking place for classes beginning Tuesday, August 25. A wide variety of programming, including a “virtual chorus," has been designed to show young people how fun opera is. All skill levels are welcome, and no audition is required. Tuition ranges from $175-200 based on age, with discounts available for two or more singers from the same family. Tuition assistance for families in need is also available. Youth Opera Fall Semester requirements include either a cell phone, computer, laptop, or tablet with a working camera and microphone. The “Virtual Chorus” requires a free Zoom account, available at https://zoom.us. Open enrollment is now taking place. To register: https://form.jotform.com/201945575263157.
For more information call 941-328-1329 or email youthopera@sarasotaopera.org.
The Players Centre for Performing Arts is moving from their current location in downtown Sarasota in October and is happy to announce their 'as seen onstage' sale opening to the public on Friday, August 14th, 2020. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 10am-4pm and Saturdays from 10am to 12pm. Many interesting items have graced The Players stage, costumes, props, luggage, furniture, lighting fixtures, greenery, crafting supplies, antiques, and much more. Since The Players is departing from their downtown Sarasota location, many of these items need a new home.
The Players Centre For Performing Arts 838 N. Tamiami Tr., Sarasota FL 34236, 941-365-2494
All Faith's food bank assembles the troops for a massive food distribution at Ed Smith Stadium.
Click here to read the full article from SRQ's Summer 2020 edition.
Florida Division of Emergency Management is now offering antibody testing at the Lincoln Park walk-up COVID-19 test center in Palmetto. Adults ages 18 and older with a valid ID can be tested at Lincoln Park, 501 17th Street East, daily from 7:00am. to 4:00pm, seven days a week. The site can perform up to 500 COVID-19 tests per day for active virus and another 200 patients can receive the antibody screening. No appointment and no prescription are necessary. The tests are free to the public. Unlike the nasal swab COVID screening, antibody testing involves a blood draw. Tests are processed on site, and results are available within 15 minutes.
Join us for our "virtual" Power Hour Lunch. Stay connected with Chamber Members and update each other on your current business opportunities. If you like to submit an electronic or virtual door prize, please email cmcgonigal@sarasotachamber.com to let him know what it will be. We will have Trivia questions during the meeting for attendees to win the door prizes. Attendees are responsible for getting door prize to the winner. If you decide to order your own lunch, please support our Chamber Members who have restaurants or provide food and beverage, listed here. Please Note: Many restaurants have adjusted their hours and operations. Please check with the restaurant directly for more information.
Join us on Zoom as we host world-famous photographer Clyde Butcher during a virtual think+drink / science. Mr. Butcher, known as the Ansel Adams of Florida, will discuss the stunning images now on display at The Bishop in our special exhibition of his work, Myakka River: A Florida Treasure. This series of 30 photographs capture the spirit of a primal, exotic place and allows visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty, complexity, and diversity of vital freshwater areas. The presentation will be followed by Q&A.
Join us for "virtual" coffee with your Chamber President/CEO, Heather Kasten and Guest Speaker Rick Piccolo, CEO of the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport to hear updates on air travel during COVID-19 and the steps put in place to keep us safe. A Zoom meeting code will be sent to registered attendees 24 hours prior to the event. You do not need a Zoom account to register for this event.
Join Historic Spanish Point for incredible stories on the artists that shaped and influenced history around the world. We are proud to offer this art lecture series with Baila Miller as part of our monthly programming. Baila’s unique storytelling presentations will connect you to the art world in a whole new way. All presentations take place at Historic Spanish Point’s Visitor Center Classrooms. Tickets: $15 for Historic Spanish Point members and $20 for future members.
Historic Spanish Point's Visitor Center Classrooms, 337 N Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL 34229
Syd Solomon: Concealed and Revealed offers a unique selection of paintings by the artist, along with numerous objects from the Solomon Archive on view for the first time. Syd Solomon (American, 1917-2004) described himself as an “Abstract Impressionist” alluding to the fact that his work infused impressionism into the processes, scale and concepts of Abstract Expressionism. Solomon moved to Sarasota in 1946 with his wife Annie. His was the first work of contemporary art to be collected by The Ringling in 1962. His paintings were greatly influenced by climatic factors and reveal a fascination and concern for Florida’s aquatic environment. Solomon incorporated his experience as a camouflage designer during World War II into his painting. It is not well-known that he was also an accomplished graphic artist, who in his early years designed commercial signage for prominent hotels and businesses in Sarasota. Like his work in camouflage, Solomon’s calligraphic skill was essential to the development of his later gestural abstraction. The exhibition began December 19, 2019 and will end January 24, 2021, during museum hours.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
Florida Studio Theatre is proud to present The Suffragist Project, an artistic celebration of the upcoming 100th Anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment (August 20, 2020), the woman’s right to vote. Bringing together over 55 organizations, this bi-county artistic commemoration will feature plays, dance performances, art exhibits, lectures, panel discussions, and in-school educational offerings, all in recognition of this monumental milestone. Opening remarks given by Mayor of the City of Sarasota, Jen Ahearn-Koch. Featuring special performances of speeches given by famous suffragists, presented by artists from across the country. Get a sneak peek of a new documentary about FST’s Suffragist Project co-produced by BTW Films and METV.
Lakewood Ranch, in collaboration with the Brain Health Initiative and their meditation expert, Trish Hart of Hart Mind Body Solutions, will be providing weekly mindful moments to help kick-off your week with a healthy brain boost. 10-15 minute video clips featuring Trish Hart who will provide a mindful moment to implement into your Tuesday routine. Mindful moments will include brief meditations, affirmations, short readings, yoga practice tips, and more. RSVP and invite your friends and neighbors to be notified when a new video is posted on Tuesday mornings. The Brain Health Initiative (BHI) is a cutting-edge, new approach to studying brain health that's set to revolutionize neuroscience research and position the Gulf Coast as a global leader in scientific innovation. Formed in 2018 and headquartered in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, the BHI features collaborative leadership from the Academy for Brain Health and Performance and Massachusetts General Hospital, a Harvard Medical School Teaching Hospital. Brain health clinicians, researchers, academics, and innovators from across the Harvard system and throughout the state of Florida, as well as national and global collaborators, are engaged in this collective impact effort to support significant positive brain health and performance outcomes for the greater Gulf Coast region and beyond. Trish Hart is a facilitator of the Massachusetts General Hospital's, Benson Henry Institute's (SMART) Stress Management and Resiliency Program, trained in Mindfulness for Professionals through Duke Integrative Medicine, and is an Ananda Meditation and Divine Sleep Yoga Nidra teacher.
Visit the Sarasota Farmers Market in Downtown Sarasota from 7am-1pm, rain or shine. We understand the severity of COVID-19; therefore, we are instituting some guidelines for both vendors and customers to follow as you join us downtown. Customer Code of Conduct: Stay home if you are sick or have been in contact with someone who is sick, Make a shopping list before coming, Pre-order and prepay vendors online if possible, Designate one shopper per household, Leave pets at home unless it is a service animal, Wear a mask, Look with your eyes only touch what you will buy, Maintain 6 feet of space between you and any others, Shop quickly and get everything to go, No gathering keep walkways clear, Hand sanitizer available at all vendor booths and sanitizing stations.
Downtown Sarasota, Lemon Avenue and State Street, Downtown Sarasota
In its 30th year, the Frank G. Berlin Sr. Foundation Small Business Awards recognizes member businesses with locally owned and operated businesses in seven (new) categories. Named in honor of the late Frank G. Berlin, Sr., whose legacy in the community and untiring support of The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce epitomized the hopes and dreams of contemporary business entrepreneurs. We thank the Berlin Foundation for lending his name and financial support to our Small Business Awards program. New Categories for Recognition: Small business (1-25 employees); Medium business (25-150 employees); Large business (150+ employees); Work Force Innovation; Community Impact; Rising Star (within the first 3 years in business); Non-profit Organization.
Hyatt Regency Sarasota, 1000 Blvd. of the Arts Sarasota, FL 34236
Three great races, world-class venue, awesome shirts, custom 4" finisher medals, challenge coins, great prizes, spectacular post-race party with the libation lounge, sip & rum, yummy food, live DJ and more. Choose between 5k Run: Choose to run or walk in this family-friendly 5K race around the lake. All skill levels welcome. 5K Sup: Bring your own stand-up paddleboard or rent one in this 5K race on the lake. All skill levels welcome. 5K Sup & 5K Run: Want a challenge? Complete our 5K Sup AND our 5K Run in this race. All skill levels welcome. The "First 100 Club" receive custom super special swag. This means the first 100 people to register each year. $1,000 in cash prizes, awesome shirt, great awards and prizes plus the best (summer) post-race party around.
Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Cr Sarasota, FL 34235
Join Historic Spanish Point for incredible stories on the artists that shaped and influenced history around the world. We are proud to offer this art lecture series with Baila Miller as part of our monthly programming. Baila’s unique storytelling presentations will connect you to the art world in a whole new way. All presentations take place at Historic Spanish Point’s Visitor Center Classrooms. Tickets: $15 for Historic Spanish Point members and $20 for future members.
Historic Spanish Point’s Visitor Center Classrooms, 337 N Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL 34229
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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