SRQ DAILY Dec 16, 2020
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"Libraries are essential to the health of our community. This new brand helps represent the evolution of libraries as a platform designed to do good in the community."
"Libraries need our help." It's a tagline that cuts to the chase and grabs your attention - especially if you're an avid reader and book lover by heart. DreamLarge, the first registered benefit corporation (B Corp) on the Gulf Coast of Florida, saw the communal and institutional sanctity of libraries as an essential entity to education and the community. And as newer technologies continue to expand and offer us faster, cheaper and more accessible ways to read and learn, Sarasota County Libraries need backing more than ever in today's screen-dominated society, a creative means to showcase its unique, environmental and hands-on benefits to reading and learning.
On December 10, the DreamLarge team announced the strategic rebrand and website launch of the Library Foundation for Sarasota County. After several months of working together, the organizations have developed a platform designed to help the Library Foundation better support, educate and advocate for Sarasota County Public Libraries.Through a catalytic investment by DreamLarge, the Foundation has acquired a new, forward-looking brand, website and image, giving it the tools and strategies necessary to better achieve its mission of ensuring libraries are an indispensable community resource.
“Libraries are essential to the health of our community,” says Alisa Mitchell, Executive Director of Library Foundation for Sarasota County. “This new brand helps represent the evolution of libraries as a platform designed to do good in the community - from simply being a place for reading to being a place that encourages accessible education, provides social services, and drives creativity and imagination in countless people,”
The Library Foundation for Sarasota County was established just under a decade ago on the belief that great communities deserve great libraries. Today, the nonprofit organization continues to raise private donations to supplement public tax support to keep Sarasota’s libraries strong, innovative and accessible to all. By working closely with the Sarasota County Library System, the county’s Library Advisory Board and with the various Friends’ organizations at each library branch, the Foundation is the brains behind continually enhancing Sarasota's well-established and welcoming library system. And now, thanks to DreamLarge, they have an immersive new website and rebrand to show off just that.
“With this project, we saw an incredible opportunity to develop a platform that could help advance the dialogue of the Foundation and the overarching importance of the library system in our community, especially in a post-Covid world.” says Julia Groom, Director of Strategic Initiatives for DreamLarge. “At DreamLarge, we believe we have a duty to serve our community and we’re honored to be able to help the Foundation tell the story of how libraries are driving the community forward at a time where we run the risk of standing still.”
For more information, or to learn how to support the Library Foundation of Sarasota County, visit sarasotalibraryfoundation.org. 
SRQ Strong’s committee on Aging, Trauma, & Resilience and Church of the Redeemer partner for a night of caroling - an initiative to bring some joy to isolated communities during the holidays. On Friday, December 18, four singers, led by Choirmaster Sam Nelson from downtown Sarasota’s Church of the Redeemer, will be performing an assortment of favorite Christmas music.
Shutts & Bowen LLP’s Sarasota office recently participated in two different holiday initiatives aimed at bringing joy to foster children and the elderly in their community. Working with One More Child, an organization dedicated to providing services to vulnerable children and struggling families, the Sarasota office collected approximately $700 worth of toys and gifts to supply to foster children in the community for the holidays. In addition to the successful toy drive, the office signed and delivered 200 Christmas cards to the Pines of Sarasota, a local, not-for-profit assisted living facility.
The Suncoast Science Center/Faulhaber Fab Lab is proud to announce it has received a $40,845 grant from The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation to enhance its ability to serve as a hub for transformative education and exploration. "We have created a safe, collaborative community where students feel empowered to explore their passions, think creatively, make mistakes and grow as individuals," shared Fab Lab Executive Director Ping Faulhaber. "The Selby Foundation's investment will enable us to impact more students and equip them with the skills needed to thrive in their future pursuits."
Pictured: Student instructor Diego Morales leads a Robotics camp for 4-5th grade students.
The School District of Manatee County’s Food and Nutrition Services Department will provide children FREE meals during the District’s Winter Break. The free meals will be offered to kids who are 18 or younger and will be available for pick up on two days, December 21st (meals for 12/21-12/27) and December 28th (meals for 12/28-1/5) at nine school locations: Ballard Elementary, Buffalo Creek Middle, Daughtrey Elementary, Haile Middle, Lee Middle, Lincoln Memorial Academy, Manatee Elementary, Myakka Elementary and Samoset Elementary. Pick-up times are 10am – 1pm on both days. Children will receive breakfast, lunch and dinner for each day of the week they are picking up.
In its 50th year as a leader in positive youth development, Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties has celebrated this milestone by changing its name to better reflect its area of impact, launching major initiatives and, now, welcoming four prominent community leaders to its 2020-2021 Corporate Board of Directors.
The new appointees include David Arch, Chairman and CEO of Blistex Inc.; Michael Martella, President of Boar’s Head; Carolyn Mason, former County Commissioner; and Kelly Wade, CEO of Crown Roofing.
“These four dynamic individuals bring decades of professional experience in strategic planning and governance that will help ensure we make an even greater impact on local youth and families as we kick off our next 50 years,” said Bill Sadlo, President/CEO.
Currently, the nonprofit’s board is leading three bold initiatives, including capital projects and enhanced programming and safety efforts in Arcadia, Newtown and North Port. Learn more at bgcsdc.org.
Image caption: David Arch, Michael Martella, Carolyn Mason and Kelly Wade joined the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto County Board of Directors
The Van Wezel is thrilled to announce the first show on the main stage since its March 2020 closure. World-class entertainer and illusionist Reza will bring his rock concert style show, “Edge of Illusion,” to a socially distanced audience at the Hall on Monday, January 25, 2021 at 7pm Tickets for this Sarasota premiere event are on sale now.
Florida Studio Theatre (FST) announces that, after careful consideration, the theatre plans to reopen in the spring of 2021 with two new musical revues. Following these two Cabarets, FST will return to full production in June with a three-show Summer Mainstage Season and a three-show Cabaret Season. “We’re excited to return to what FST, as a theatre, does best: live shows for live audiences,” said Richard Hopkins, FST’s Producing Artistic Director. “We’re offering these spring musical revues as a way to serve our community, which has been thirsting for live entertainment for months. Not only will these shows lift our audience’s spirits, but they will be fun for us to produce. Reopening in March with these special spring performances is our first step toward FST coming back to life after the pandemic.”
The Sarasota Cuban Ballet School (SCBS) will perform for the public on Wednesday, December 16th, at 1 pm. It will stream over Facebook Live and be available for viewing later on Facebook and the Sarasota Cuban Ballet School’s YouTube channel. Ariel Serrano, the artistic director noted, “Our students have been training very hard during this difficult period and look forward to showcasing their efforts for a virtual audience. As we do every day in classes, all CDC guidelines will be followed. Dancers will wear masks and personal contact will be minimized. Even with these limitations, viewers will enjoy watching dancers who are continuing to develop their artistry and express their passion for what they love to do best.”
The Leapfrog Group released its Fall 2020 hospital report cards today, and Sarasota Memorial Hospital again earned an A for patient safety. Sarasota Memorial has earned straight A’s since it began participating in Leapfrog’s hospital safety survey in 2016. Sarasota Memorial President and CEO David Verinder attributes the SMH’s continued success to the entire hospital team, the health system’s governing board and ongoing community support. “We have always placed the utmost importance on the safety of our patients and staff,” he said. “No matter the challenge, our team always comes together to put the community first and ensure we are providing the best care to people living on the Suncoast.”
For the month of November, passenger traffic at the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) was at 58% of the 2019 level. Passengers totaled 106,195 for November 2020 compared to 182,607 passengers in November 2019. SRQ remains well above the national average. Rick Piccolo, President, CEO of the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport said, “The airlines at SRQ continue to adjust their schedules based on ever-changing passenger demand. During these difficult times, we are very fortunate to be a leisure destination that is geographically located in a warm weather setting offering many outdoor activities which allow social distancing."
Hospitality establishments across Sarasota and Bradenton have achieved the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) Seal of Commitment, demonstrating their dedication to enhanced safety and sanitation practices at a time when it matters most. “Employee and guest safety is paramount for Florida’s hospitality industry,” said Carol Dover, FRLA President and CEO. “Before the COVID-19 pandemic, our hotels and restaurants adhered to strict sanitation, food safety, and training guidelines, but it is important for our guests to know we are going above and beyond. With the Seal of Commitment program, we have built on the foundation of excellent standards to do even more to ensure cleanliness and safety to help build consumer confidence.
Sarasota investment advisor Michael E. DeMassa, CFA, CFP® was recently recognized with the 2020 Five Star Wealth Manager award. This is the fourth consecutive year DeMassa has been selected.
Where to snag the best bundle of goodies.
Click here to read the full article from SRQ's December 2020 edition.
Sarasota Orchestra celebrates the holidays with music for the season from December 17 until December 20, 2020. This not-so- “Silent Night” will include the theme from “It’s a Wonderful Life” and other traditional favorites. Bring music’s warming glow to your holiday celebration. $10 Streaming Access from December 24 through 29.
Holley Hall, 709 North Tamiami Trail
To celebrate our landmark 15th season, Sarasota Contemporary Dance is partnering with Rosemary Square, home of our studio on Boulevard of the Arts at 7:30pm on December 18, 2020. This fiesta brings a dance party atmosphere to our backyard with a live DJ and an interactive art installation featuring highlights from SCD’s robust historía. This event will premiere a live collaborative performance in conjunction with Ringling School of Art and Design alum, Skylar Martinez, local Lyricist and B-boy Rick Levin, and DJ Karim Manning. Fiesta de Colores promises to be a fun-filled, socially-distanced evening for those who enjoy a lively outdoor experience.
Rosemary Square District courtyard
Claudia Baeza is a Kripalu trained yoga instructor who has been sharing her love of yoga in Sarasota since 2016. Join her for Yoga + Meditation on the loggias of the Museum of Art Courtyard on Friday, December 18, from 10am to 11am for a unique opportunity to gently move the body and calm the mind. Her first session on August 28 will delve into the wisdom of Hatha yoga and pranayama breathing techniques to calm the mind. Her second session on September 25 will focus on the Yamas and Niyamas of the Yoga Sutras, written by Patanjali between 500 BCE and 400 CE. Finally she will end her Yoga Meditation series with Yoga through the Chakras for inner balance and wisdom. Bring a yoga mat, water bottle and a friend– and enjoy the serenity of the Museum of Art Courtyard with Claudia. Please Note: Tickets must be purchased online, in advance of the event. $15 / $13.50 Members.
The Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Road
No school? No problem. Add some science fun to the season with family friendly
Holiday Happenings at Mote Aquarium on December 21, 22, 23 and December 28, 29, 30 from 10am to 3pm. When you purchase your tickets to Mote Aquarium, add a Holiday Happenings Pass to your child’s admission for an additional $7 ($6 for members). With a Holiday Happenings Pass you can get slimy at our dissection station, investigate ocean acidification at the chemistry station and make an eco-friendly craft at our creativity station! Additional offerings for little ones ages 3 -5 will be available during our Shark Pups and Grown Ups sessions at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm (guests should meet in front of the main aquarium building 10 minutes before program start time). Passes are $6 for members and $7 for non-members. Event will be held in an open-air courtyard.
Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium
Clara is given an enchanted Nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve. As midnight strikes, she creeps downstairs to find a magical adventure awaiting her and her Nutcracker.The magician Drosselmeyer transforms the drawing room for a battle between mice and toy soldiers. During the battle, Clara saves the Nutcracker's life - so breaking a magical spell that turned him from a boy to a toy - and the Mouse King is defeated. In celebration, Drosselmeyer sweeps Clara and the Nutcracker off to the Kingdom of Sweets, where they meet the Sugar Plum Fairy and take part in a wonderful display of dances. The next morning, Clara's adventures seem to have been more than just a dream. This production will take place at 1:30pm on December 20, 2020.
Sarasota Opera House
The stars are the stars during our monthly live, guided tour of the night skies, Stelliferous. This month Planetarium Manager Howard Hochhalter and Bishop Curator Tiffany Birakis are teaming up for a special program at 7pm on December 23, 2020 that will explore how different cultures around the ancient world ascribed meaning to the movement of the stars and planets, including the Star of Bethlehem. This Zoom program will include opportunities for Q&A.
This year's event will be a Virtual Race on Thursday, Dec. 24 at 8am through Sunday, December 27th at 1pm, 2020 and is hosted by the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center Auxiliary to benefit their Nursing and Health Careers' Scholarship Program. Keep the tradition going in 2020 with the 9th Annual Jingle Run, a virtual 5K run/walk to help support the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center Auxiliary Nursing Scholarship Program. Proceeds from The Virtual Jingle SK Run and Walk go directly to the Auxiliary's New Nursing Scholarship Program designed to benefit students enrolled in college nursing program and currently doing their clinical affiliation at the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center. To register for the Virtual race go to www.raceroster.com, go to register for a new event and search under the word "Jingle." Register to run or walk wherever you are to show your support for future nurses. Participants will receive a bib number and custom designed 2020 medal. Participants who complete the virtual run/walk and submit results will be eligible for raffle prizes.
For over 70 years, students ages 8-18 have amazed audiences with an incredible spectacle of youth circus arts. See them flip, fly and soar to new heights in this annual holiday production daily at 2pm and 7pm, Sunday at 1pm and 6pm and Thursday at 1pm from December 26 until December 31, 2020. The entire family will enjoy acts showcasing beautiful aerial artistry, heart-stopping acrobatics, incredible acrobatic roller skating, lightning fast juggling and more.
Sailor Circus Arena, 2075 Bahia Vista Street
We are excited to announce that Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium will open its doors an hour early exclusively for individuals who have sensory processing differences or those with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) on January 2, 2021. Individuals with disabilities who would benefit from a calmer sensory experience are also welcome. Mote will foster an inclusive environment for these aquarium guests. Our exhibits may be enjoyed under soft lighting without heavy crowds, and with decreased noise level and visual stimulation wherever possible. Sensory Saturday will open at 8:30am. Groups will be allowed time entry to minimize crowding and in accordance with Mote’s Safety Guidelines. Regular Aquarium hours begin at 9:30am.
Haven't made those New Year's resolutions yet? It’s time to leave 2020 behind and look at art that can provide motivation for a healthy, happy, and productive 2021 at 1pm on January 5, 2021. $5 / Free for Members.
Online
This year, the spotlight will be on the SMH healthcare heroes. Their commitment and compassion during one of the most challenging years in the hospital’s history has been extraordinary. Proceeds from the gala on January 9, 2021 from 6:30pm to 7:30pm will also support the hospital’s areas of greatest need helping to ensure that SMH retains its ranking as one of the nation’s top hospitals.
For the 15th year, Rainforest Masks of Costa Rica will return to Selby Gardens. A collection of more than 300 masks created by a collective of indigenous Borucan artists will be on display and available for purchase. The Rainforest Masks of Costa Rica exhibit and sale showcases artists from the Borucan Indian tribe of Costa Rica. Experience the vibrant, hand-carved and painted balsa wood masks showcased in the Museum of Botany & the Arts from January 9 to 31, 2021.
PoetryMic is a series that presents an array of varied and talented poets. This month's poets are Don McLagan, Liz Kelner Pozen, Mary Saily and Carol Sundberg. There is no charge for this first PoetryMic event on January 10, 2021 at 2pm. There is an optional fee of $7.00 to help defray the cost to the bookstore. Reservations required for Zoom link.
In collaboration with the Sarasota Architectural Foundation, the Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation and the AIA Gulf Coast Chapter, this exhibit will examine the unique history of architecture in Sarasota from the time of Native Americans to the present and will run from January 12 until April 17, 2021. Timed reservation information will be available soon.
It’s that time of year again! Join us virtually for our annual look at scenes of the Nativity in the museum at 1pm on December 16, 2020. $5 / Free for Members.
Online, Online
Join the Sarasota Cuban Ballet School on December 16, 2020, January 13, 2021 and February 10, 2021 to witness the future in dance and see up close the amazing students of SCBS.
Yoga Instructor Ashley Stewart will lead a yoga session the front lawn of Ca' d'Zan. Each session will last an hour, and participants may begin entering 30 minutes prior to the event. Participants should bring a yoga mat and water or drink as desired. This event will occur on December 17, 2020 at 5pm. Tickets are limited to 50 in order to maintain proper social distancing. Please note: Tickets must be purchased online, in advance of the event. $15 / $13.50 Members.
The Ringling Museum, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota
Our third Digital Program of the Season, this performance features an arrangement of works and extracts including: Peter Darrell's Othello Christopher Wheeldon's The American Sir Matthew Bourne's The Infernal Galop, Merman Solo Sir Peter Wright's The Mirror Walkers Sir Peter Wright's Summertide Sir Kenneth MacMillan's Concerto Dominic Walsh's Clair de Lune Ricardo Graziano's Amorosa, pas de deux An additional one-act ballet and extra content to be announced. A video link to view Digital Program 3 will be emailed to ticket holders the morning of December 18th along with links to Bonus Content, our Performance Program Book, our 30th Anniversary Season Program Book, and a tutorial video on connecting your internet device to your television. If you purchase a ticket after the morning of the 18th, you will receive these links via email several minutes after time of purchase. Tickets for Digital Program 3 will be on sale until Tuesday, 22 December, at 2:00pm EST. Upon becoming available to watch, Digital Program 3 can be watched as many times as you would like, until Tuesday, 22 December, at 11:59 PM EST, at which point the Program will no longer be viewable. Make sure you enjoy it before then.
Online, Online
The Hermitage Artist Retreat’s popular beachfront series continues with "Future Tradition," featuring a talk and demonstration with Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and performer Du Yun on Friday, December 18 at 5pm.
Learn about the rich circus history of Sarasota on an unforgettable trolley tour! Pass by key city landmarks as our informative and passionate tour guide, Bob Collins, tells stories about the colorful cast of circus characters, showmen, and performers who called Sarasota home. Meander through historic neighborhoods such as the Rosemary District, known for its vibrant food and art scene. Learn about the rich history of the Ringling brothers, the five brothers who owned and operated the circus renowned as the “Greatest Show on Earth.” Pass by the 21-gallery museum John Ringling constructed to house his extensive artwork collection, which opened to the public in 1931. Explore several other locations intimately involved in Sarasota’s circus history, including Sarasota Jungle Gardens, Circus Arts Conservatory, and the Circus Ring of Fame on St. Armands Circle. This 90-minute trolley tour is perfect for all ages and shows you a whole new side of Sarasota. Get ready for a fun-filled circus adventure during this show on wheels. It’s an illuminating experience you don’t want to miss. Runs from March 11, 2020 through December 31, 2o2o. Hours vary.
Join us in the Motorworks Beer Garden every last Friday for our monthly “Beer Garden Bazaar” Night Market featuring local makers showcasing their original arts, handmade crafts and one-of-a-kind goods, plus live music from 7-11pm, food trucks, delicious craft brews (of course) and extensive wine & cocktail offerings. Invite your friends, swing on by the Beer Garden and mingle with a drink in hand while perusing tons of awesome local wares. Eat, shop and drink the night away under the glow of the moon and beautifully lit old oak tree. Family & Pet Friendly Free Event.
Motorworks Brewing, 1014 9th Street West Bradenton, Florida 34205
Curated from The Ringling’s photography collection, this exhibition features works by photographers who examine the complexities of identity and the staging of selfhood. Consisting primarily of self-portraits and portraits of empowered subjects, these works explore personal agency at the intersection of politics and the female body. Many of the artists in the exhibition are recognized as leading voices in contemporary art and offer diverse perspectives on issues surrounding power, sexuality, and self-representation. Each photograph presents a unique invitation to renew the dialogue on the authority of the gaze in the twentieth-first century. Being Seen also includes numerous works by significant women photographers from the twentieth century, added to the collection in recent years. This exhibition offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore themes of agency, visibility, and gender through the lens of a broader historical context. This exhibit began April 19, 2020 and will end on January 3, 2021, during museum hours.
The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Road
Relax, stretch and enjoy a free fulfilling yoga session every Saturday from November 21 until December 26, 2020 from 9:30am to 10:30am on the Sarasota’s scenic bayfront while instructor Erin Hurter guides you along the way. Participants should plan to bring their own yoga mat and water bottle.
Van Wezel Lawn
This fun family friendly festive event features miles of Christmas decorations and music that creates an atmosphere that will get your Christmas season started off right from Friday, December 18 at 6am until Saturday, December 19 at 11:59pm. This professionally chip timed night glow run will be a memorable experience like no other. Athletes run or walk the lakeside Christmas themed course with thousands of lights and lighted characters at night. Athletes add to the atmosphere with their complimentary glow products that are included with registration. ...and YES, there is 100% chance of pretty snowfall at the finish.
NBP Regatta Island, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens brings you Lights in Bloom: An Open-air Holiday Light Show on December 12 to 23, 26 and 31 and January 1 and 2, 2020 from 6pm until 9pm. More than two million lights illuminate the gardens, and walkways are transformed into sensory light tunnels. Stroll through magical gardens filled with beautifully lit flowers, radiant rainforest butterflies, dragonflies, and more. Lights in Bloom: An Open-air Light Show has become a tradition for residents and visitors to celebrate the holiday season in Sarasota. Masks are required for entry. Access each evening is limited. Selby Gardens will monitor the number of visitors to ensure appropriate social distancing and safety for all. Santa will not be visiting this year and interactive games will not be available. Instead, we will be offering a special, free photo opportunity for you and your guests. Food and beverages will be available for purchase at a variety of locations throughout the Gardens, including the Selby House Cafe. General admission is $20 for members and $25 for non-members, early access is $30 for members and $35 for non-members, and four night passes are $80 for members and $100 for non-members.
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