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SRQ DAILY Nov 1, 2023

Wednesday Philanthropy Edition

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Wednesday Philanthropy Edition

"If you are a person who is just about ready to lose your housing and you do not have the resources to move into another house, that's housing insecurity. "

- Jon Thaxton, Senior Vice President for Community Leadership, Gulf Coast Community Foundation.
 

[Veterans]  Gulf Coast Community Foundation and St. Vincent de Paul CARES Celebrate Groundbreaking of Sarasota's First Veteran's Housing Project.
Barbie Heit, barbie.heit@srqme.com

Housing insecurity is an ongoing issue for many veterans. On Monday afternoon, together with its Board and a handful of generous donors, Gulf Coast Community Foundation and St. Vincent de Paul CARES celebrated the long-awaited groundbreaking of Sarasota’s first housing project specifically for those veterans.

"If you're a person who is just about ready to lose your housing and you don't have the resources to move into another house, that's housing insecurity. If you are sleeping every night or every other week on a different couch at a different home or you're sleeping in your car, that's housing insecurity. If you are sleeping under the Ringling Bridge or if you've not had a permanent residence for the last 15 years, that's housing insecurity,” explains Gulf Coast’s Senior Vice President for Community Leadership, Jon Thaxton.

The new housing initiative first came about when a group of donors with an interest in helping veterans came to Thaxton and asked if he would be able to do something with a million dollars. He put out some feelers and very quickly, the Office of Housing and Community Development and the City Commission came forward to help, designating land already zoned for 10 units. “We got additional cash resources from the Office Housing and Community Development and we got a pool of money from the donors fund and we just put it all together,” Thaxton says.

The Veterans Housing Initiative includes ten rental units in the city of Sarasota for low-income veterans, providing affordable housing to help our nation’s heroes. The units will be managed by key partner St. Vincent de Paul CARES, a nonprofit who has a successful track record of building and operating affordable housing for veterans. The apartments will be built on 25th Street, west of Orange Avenue and close to the bus line which will hopefully lead to greater employment opportunities. There are plans to paint a veteran's mural on one side of the building which will have shared borders with the African American Cultural Center of Sarasota on 27th Street.

“Our first focus is to occupy the housing units with north Sarasota County veterans because it is in a neighborhood that they know near support services that they already have in place,” says Thaxton. While the units will be on the smaller side, they will have laundry facilities as well as outdoor meeting space where people can gather and provide support to one another. “The amenities are going to be very similar to what we have in our own homes, including tiled floors, wood cabinets and high quality features donated by Home Depot,” he adds. The veterans will only be paying 30% of their income for rent and they will sign an annual lease which will instill a sense of responsibility and ownership, helping them to feel secure and safe. There will also be navigators available to help them make the most of their veteran's benefits.

“It's affordable and it will allow our heroes an opportunity to regain whatever ground they lost,” shares Thaxton. “In many cases, the ground that they lost was a direct result of them serving in the armed forces. Our goal is to have north Sarasota County veterans in safe, stable, high quality housing by this time next year.” 

[Nonprofit News]  CoreSRQ Announces Merger with the YMCA of Southwest Florida

CoreSRQ announced it will merge with the YMCA of Southwest Florida, a joint coming together that has long been desired by both organizations. In the past four years, CoreSRQ, has built a culture of community spirit and courage while operating the former Sarasota Y. That culture will be amplified with this union. The YMCA of Southwest Florida consists of eight different YMCAs in seven Southwest Florida counties with more than 60,000 members and participants under its umbrella.The Sarasota branches, located at Euclid Ave and Potter Park, will now be known respectively as Sarasota City YMCA Branch and Palmer Ranch YMCA Branch, names that reestablish the YMCA legacy founded in 1945. The CoreSRQ name was adopted following a grass roots community effort to keep the facilities open in 2019. In a six-week period, the Sarasota community united and through financial gifts by generous donors as well as members and concerned citizens, saved the wellness centers from closure. Through its Invest in Incredible (I3) program, Gulf Coast Community Foundation supported the facilitation of the merger. Phillip P. Lanham, President | CEO of Gulf Coast Community Foundation reflected, “The Y is one of our community’s legacy associations with a history of providing quality programs for 78 years. Generations of Sarasota County residents have grown up with the Y. We are proud to be a catalyst in bringing these two organizations together to ensure that legacy continues for future generations.” 

[Leadership]  Save Our Seabirds Welcomes Executive Director

Save Our Seabirds (SOS), one of the largest bird rescue and rehabilitation centers in Florida, recently welcomed Brian Walton as its new executive director after a nationwide search. A strategic thinker with expertise in the nonprofit sector, Walton most recently served as executive director for North Brevard Charities in Titusville, Florida. During his time there, he led all aspects of the social service agency, which included operating 59 affordable housing units, a thrift store and two food pantries. Walton also raised millions in private and government grant revenue, and significantly increased multiple revenue streams. In his new role with SOS, Walton will be tasked with leading and managing all operational aspects of the organization and developing long-term strategies with the board of directors. Other responsibilities will include establishing goals for financial and operational performance, expanding the donor base, increasing brand awareness and enlarging the impact of SOS. Walton attended Johnson University and received a bachelor’s degree in counseling and a master’s degree in communications. He is a certified fundraising executive and certified nonprofit consultant. 

[Fundraising Event]  The Library Foundation for Sarasota County Announces Acclaimed Author Colson Whitehead as Speaker for 12th Annual Love Our Libraries Luncheon

The Library Foundation for Sarasota County is thrilled to announce award-winning author, Colson Whitehead, as the featured speaker at their 12th annual Love Our Libraries Author Luncheon, to be held on February 9, 2024 at the Municipal Auditorium in Sarasota. The Love Our Libraries Author Luncheon is the nonprofit Library Foundation’s signature fundraiser. To date, the annual sellout event has raised more than two million dollars to support Sarasota County public libraries. Since its founding in 2011, the Library Foundation has secured more than eight million dollars in private funds to help ensure a bright future for Sarasota’s libraries. Whitehead is a #1 New York Times bestselling author whose most recent novels include Crook Manifesto (2023) and Harlem Shuffle (2021). His book, The Underground Railroad, an Oprah’s book club selection, was awarded the 2016 National Book Award and the 2017 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. His New York Times bestseller The Nickel Boys won the 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, making him the fourth author to win two Pulitzers in the Fiction category. The novel also won the 2019 Kirkus Prize for Fiction and the 2020 Orwell Prize for Political Fiction. This event is made possible by Presenting Sponsor the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, Author Reception Sponsor Bookstore1 Sarasota, and by the generosity of numerous community partners. For sponsorship opportunities or to purchase tickets, visit www.sarasotalibraryfoundation.org or call 941-404-3139. Tickets start at $225.

  

[Arts & Entertainment]  Sahib Shrine Circus and Family Festival Gives Back with A Special Performance

The Sahib Shrine Circus & Family Festival kicks off its fun-filled weekend (November 3-5) with a private circus performance for local children, teens, and adults from three local non-profit agencies that receive support from Suncoast Charities for Children. This special performance will take place on Thursday, November 2, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Sahib Shrine located at 600 N. Beneva Road. Individuals from Children First, The Haven, and The Florida Center for Early Childhood will be treated to a ringside seat and complimentary food and beverages. One performer in the show, Aodhan Lane, is autistic and will be making his circus debut by lighting up the stage in an aerial LED cube. He became inspired by Hugh Jackman’s performance as the Ringmaster in The Greatest Showman and immediately began training in circus arts and acting. He is a 3-time award winner of Autism’s Got Talent and in 2021 told his story of how he found his passion through circus arts in a short film “Juggling Autism.” Lucy Nicandri, Executive Director of Suncoast Charities for Children, shared: “I was so excited when the Sahib Shrine reached out to me with this special invitation to make it a special day for several local non-profits that we support. After hearing about Aodhan’s hope to inspire others to live their dreams with all their hearts and to never give up, aligned with our mission and made their invitation even more special.” The Sahib Shrine Circus & Family Festival will have afternoon and evening performances all weekend long beginning Friday, November 3 through Sunday, November 5. In addition to the indoor circus performance, there will be plenty of interactive and fun-filled children’s activities going on outside such as pony rides, bounce houses, games, and much more! Proceeds will benefit the local Shrine and charities that the Shrine supports. For tickets and information visit sahibevents.com or call (941) 870-7444. 

[Grants]  Sarasota Opera Receives $60,000 Arts Appreciation Grant from Gulf Coast Community Foundation

Sarasota Opera is grateful to have received a $60,000 Arts Appreciation Grant made possible through the Wiliam S. and Jean W. Scott Endowed Fund at Gulf Coast Community Foundation. Aligning with their mission to find meaningful ways to invest in the arts, Gulf Coast Community Foundation allows grant award winners flexibility with their funding in order to pursue their own artistic missions. Gulf Coast Community Foundation will continue its longstanding support of Sarasota Opera by underwriting the 2023-24 season and will be recognized as 2024 Winter Opera Festival Sponsor. They are also a sponsor of the popular Curtain Raiser Dinner, and Sarasota Opera’s annual gala on February 3. “Gulf Coast Community Foundation has been one of the most generous and longtime supporters of Sarasota Opera. They have always recognized the importance of our arts and cultural sector and we are grateful for this generous support,” said Richard Russell, the company’s General Director. “For decades, Sarasota Opera has presented breathtaking, professional musical experiences and important educational programs for youth in our region. We are honored to support Sarasota Opera, as their artistic mission aligns with our vision to support thriving communities with opportunities for all,” said Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s President | CEO Phillip Lanham. 

[Friends of Manatee County Animal Services]  "Friendsgiving" - A Dessert and Wine Auction

Get tickets for Friendsgiving…A Dessert and Wine Auction - Saturday, November 11th, 6:00-10:00 pm at IMG Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton. It is going to be a fun-filled evening with live and silent auctions of locally made, delicious desserts plus fabulous gift baskets featuring sports packages, spa services, restaurant gift cards, fun excursions plus the famous Wine Pull. Limited seating. $25 tickets include a delicious menu, served buffet style from IMG Chef Rocky Fidelibus. Cash bar. Local celebrity Bob Slicker, Slicker’s Eatery owner, will be the auctioneer. It is going to be a fun evening! Benefits local shelter animals.  

Saturday, November 11th, 6:00- 10:00 pm at IMG Golf Club, 4350 El Conquistador Parkway, Bradenton.

Click Here To Learn More

[Grant]  Sarasota Orchestra Awarded Strategic Partnership Grant from Community Foundation of Sarasota County

Sarasota Orchestra has received a $70,000 Strategic Partnership Grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, which comes from the Martha Leiter and Nancy Streetman Fund II. In addition to being the Foundation Title Sponsor for Sarasota Orchestra’s 2023-2024 Dinner Series, the Community Foundation’s grant funding will support Celebrate 75, the Orchestra’s Special Concert & Gala event, and the return of the family concert, Peter and the Wolf. As the Orchestra continues its search for a Music Director, six of the world’s most compelling conductors are coming to be part of Sarasota Orchestra’s 75th Anniversary season celebration. With funding from the Community Foundation, the Dinner Series offers an opportunity to meet these renowned maestros and dine with them at Sarasota’s most distinguished venues. Each unique dinner features a short performance by select Sarasota Orchestra musicians and a moderated conversation with the featured guest conductor. Hear them share their perspective and approach to making music, as well as the stories behind their passion for the classics. By funding the Dinner Series, this generous grant from the Community Foundation also provides essential support for Sarasota Orchestra’s full artistic season, which began this month and runs through May 2024. Sarasota Orchestra’s season of programming includes performances in a variety of venues and formats and is comprised of concerts in five different series: Masterworks, Discoveries, Chamber Soirées, Pops and Great Escapes. The season concludes with the ever-popular Outdoor Pops concerts at Ed Smith Stadium. Following the success of the program last season, and with the backing of the Community Foundation, Sarasota Orchestra is thrilled to offer two performances of Peter and the Wolf this season, one in English and one in Spanish. Both performances will take place on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at Holley Hall in the Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center. Additionally, before and after each concert, children will get the chance to make some joyful noise in our musical "petting zoo," where they will be able to touch and interact with real instruments, meet Sarasota Orchestra musicians, and create their own music-themed arts and crafts! To serve all of our attendees and guests, Sarasota Orchestra will be doing a “petting zoo” in both English and Spanish. 

[Leadership]  Founding CEO AG Lafley Rejoins the Bay Park Conservancy as Chief Executive Officer

The Bay Park Conservancy (BPC), the non-profit organization responsible for designing and developing 53 acres of City-owned land on Sarasota Bay into a signature park, and then operating, maintaining and programming the park as it opens to the public, has announced that President and Chief Executive Officer Stephanie Crockatt has stepped down to pursue other opportunities. The BPC Board has asked AG Lafley, Founding BPC CEO, to rejoin as CEO, effective immediately. Lafley served as volunteer chair of the Sarasota Bayfront Planning Organization master planning committee (SBPO), and then as volunteer BPC Founding CEO between December 2019 and May 2023. Jennifer Compton, BPC Board Chair said, “I appreciate Stephanie’s efforts and wish her the best in her next endeavor. The Board is confident that AG will pick up where he left off and progress the park and Conservancy’s plans and priorities. I look forward to The Bay continuing to be a beloved gathering place for our community by delighting park guests every day with all the park has to offer.” Lafley says, “I am proud of what the BPC has accomplished thus far to create this signature ‘one park for all.’ Working with the many partners and the BPC team to build on this momentum, I fully expect we will continue delighting park guests who visit the current park; make The Bay Park Conservancy sustainable in every way – financially, operationally and environmentally; and build ‘more park for all’ with Phase 2 and beyond.” Crockatt, who joined BPC as its first full-time President and CEO in May 2023, was previously Executive Director of Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy in Buffalo, New York. Crockatt said, “I have complete faith that the leadership team will continue to carry the vision of the community forward and that The Bay will thrive and achieve its full potential.” The Bay recently celebrated its one-year anniversary of the first 10-acre phase of the park which opened in October 2022. More than 250,000 people visited the park in the first year. Design and development of Phase 2, the next 14-acre $65 million development, is underway and will be completed over the next 3 years. Phase 2 includes a revitalized Cultural District along Tamiami Trail, an extended resilient shoreline along Sarasota Bay, a magnificent Sunset Pier and the addition of day docks north of 10th Street. Phase 2 capital improvements are fully funded through a $48 million Tax Increment Funded (TIF)-backed bond and other government grants. For more information about The Bay and The Bay Park Conservancy, visit www.thebaysarasota.org, or contact Julia Groom at julia@dreamlarge.org or 941-786-8732. 



[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Free Dentistry Day at Creekwood Dental , November 17, 7am-12pm

Residents in the Bradenton community and surrounding areas will have the opportunity to receive free dental services at Creekwood Dental on Friday, November 17. Drs. Jennifer Pfeiffer, Brian Harrington and team at Creekwood Dental will be improving the oral health of the community as part of Free Dentistry Day, a day dedicated to providing free dental care to the growing number of Americans without dental insurance. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, approximately 108 million Americans are living without dental insurance. During Free Dentistry Day, cleanings, fillings and extractions will be provided to patients on Friday, November 17, between 7 a.m. and 12 p.m. at 5210 Creekwood Boulevard in Bradenton. Patients will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, please call 941-755-1488 or visit www.FreeDentistryDay.org.

[SOON]  GALA: Dreams to Success Gala , November 17, 6-10pm

We invite you to join us to attend our 2nd Annual Dreams to Success Gala. This year, we promise an unforgettable evening that will resonate in your hearts for years to come. Picture a night filled with delectable dinner, live music that will move your soul, a captivating silent auction, dancing that will keep you on your feet, and inspiring testimonies from our adult and youth families who experienced the love from our programs. Expect a night filled with fun and meaningful connections as we eagerly anticipate your sponsorship and presence at our second annual fundraiser scheduled for Friday, November 17, 2023, at the Plantation Golf & Country Club. Your participation means the world to us, and it is through your support that we can continue making a significant difference in the lives of the children and families we have the privilege to empower. Plantation Golf and Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd., Venice, laurelcivic.org.

[SOON]  SEMINAR: Power of Conversation: Embracing Generational Differences , November 16, 5:30-7:30pm

The Women’s Resource Center presents the Power of Conversation: Embracing Generational Differences, a panel discussion that aims to explore the unique views, perspectives, stereotypes and biases of four generations, Thursday, November 16, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at The Grove, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch. Tickets start at $50 and include program and takeaway, food, and beverages. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit mywrc.org/generation.

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Wellen Park Veterans Day Ceremony , November 11, 10am-4pm

In partnership with The Rotary Club, Wellen Park is hosting a day of reflection and appreciation this Veterans Day at the Flags for our Heroes ceremony in Downtown Wellen. For every $50 donation, an American flag and customized medallion will be put on display along Downtown Wellen’s Grand Lake. The plaques, which will include the hero’s name, will be presented in a special ceremony on Nov. 11 from 10am-4pm on the Great Lawn. To make a donation and honor a hero with a flag, go to eventbrite.com/flagsforourheroestickets.

[SOON]  GALA: Night of Hope and Healing with the Child Protection Center , November 9, 6 to 9 p.m.

Join us in bringing hope and healing to the fight against child abuse in our community. Night of Hope and Healing will feature a wide selection of tastings from crowd favorite restaurants, fantastic live and silent auctions, and most importantly, you will leave the event knowing that you are bringing change, protection, and hope to the most vulnerable children of our community. Sponsoring this event will expose your business to a compassionate, caring, and loyal community while providing the necessary support to give local children access to life saving services. These partnerships provide hope in raising awareness, hope in bringing comfort and joy, and hope in building a world where kids can just be kids. We look forward to seeing you there. Plantation Golf and Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd., Venice, https://cpcsarasota.org/events/night-of-hope/.

[SOON]  GALA: Resilient Retreat Farm to Table , November 5, 4 pm

Please join us for the annual Resilient Retreat Farm to Table dining experience on Sunday, November 5, 2023 at 4:00 pm. The funds raised at the event are critical to Resilient Retreat to continue to serve survivors of trauma and first responders and helping professionals. Come immerse yourself among the majestic oaks at 84 acres of conservation land on the retreat. In true farm to table fashion, our local chefs will craft a tasting menu featuring the very best local seasonal foods. Dine under the stars nestled among the beautiful live oaks while experiencing al fresco farm to table dining. Farm to Table proceeds will benefit the Resilient Retreat mission to empower survivors of trauma to thrive through self care and community. Visit https://givebutter.com/farmtotable2023 for more information and to purchase tickets.

[SOON]  FILM: Sarasota Opera Classic Movies Series , October 13 – October 27, 7:30pm

Sarasota Opera presents 2023 Summer Classic Movies at the Opera House. The Classic Movies at the Opera House series will feature The Addams Family, on October 27 at 7:30pm. Throughout the summer and into the fall, featured movies will include films ranging from the 1930s to the 1990s. Tickets are $12. Sarasota Opera, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, sarasotaopera.org.

[SOON]  MUSIC: Jazz Thursdays , July 13 – December 14, 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Join Sarasota Art Museum for Jazz Thursdays featuring live jazz music, contemporary art, and sips and bites from Bistro. Hosted by the Jazz Club of Sarasota. Jazz Thursday happens on the second Thursday of each month, 5:30-8 p.m. Galleries, Bistro, and SHOP open. FREE for Members, $20 for Not-Yet Members.

[SOON]  MUSIC: John Waite: 40 Years of Missing You , November 8, 7:30pm

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is excited to welcome John Waite to Sarasota on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. John will be performing his catalogue of hits from his 40-year career as a solo artist, with The Baby’s and Bad English. Tickets for John Waite: 40 Years of Missing You are currently on sale. Tickets start at $35 and can be purchased at VanWezel.org, by calling the box office at 941-263-6799 or by visiting the box office Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Groups of 10 or more should contact 941-263-6726. For more information, visit VanWezel.org.

[SOON]  MUSIC: Choral Artists of Sarasota Present Veterans Day in Song , November 11, 1pm

Choral Artists of Sarasota presents the songs that brought hope and inspiration during military conflicts, from the Revolutionary War through Desert Storm. The featured guest artist is baritone Bob McDonald, a retired Sergeant Major from The US Army Chorus. The performance will be on Saturday, November 11, 1pm, at Church of the Redeemer, 222 S. Palm Avenue, Sarasota. Tickets are $40 for guests and $25 for Veterans. Student tickets are $5. For more information, visit www.ChoralArtistsSarasota.org.

[SOON]  MUSIC: The Artful Lobster: An Outdoor Celebration! , November 11, 11:30am-2pm

The Hermitage Artist Retreat announces that world-renowned and Grammy Award-winning string quartet ETHEL will headline the Hermitage’s signature fall fundraising event, “The Artful Lobster: An Outdoor Celebration!” on Saturday, November 11th from 11:30am to 2pm at the Hermitage campus on Manasota Key. This is the first time in many years that all four members of ETHEL – Ralph Farris, Kip Jones, Dorothy Lawson, and Corin Lee – will be reuniting at the Hermitage to celebrate this milestone anniversary of the event. This year’s Artful Lobster will also feature a performance by new Hermitage Fellow Emi Ferguson, a celebrated flutist and performer. For more information about the Hermitage and upcoming programs, visit HermitagArtistRetreat.org.

[SOON]  SEMINAR: Women's Resource Center You Are Worthy Series , September 14 – November 9, 6-8pm

The Women’s Resource Center presents “You Are Worthy,” an eight-week series from September 14th through November 9th moderated by Chris Florand and Denise Whalin. This in-person series is part of the Women’s Resource Center’s life enrichment programs. The program is $25 for all sessions and takes place at WRC’s Sarasota office at 340 S. Tuttle Ave. To register, please call 941-256-9721 or visit mywrc.org/youareworthy. This program meets weekly on Thursdays from 6-8pm, with each session focusing on developing self-awareness skills, the building block where real personal growth and power to change lives starts.

[SOON]  HEALTH: Wellen Park Group Fitness , October 15 – December 16, 8-9am

Starting the week of Oct. 15, a dynamic lineup of weekly fitness activities for the community will begin. Groups will meet in Downtown Wellen, in front of Kind Vibes Outfitters. Yoga and Zumba classes meet on the Great Lawn. Walking Group Meet-Up, every Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m. Cycling Group Meet-Up, every Saturday from 10 to 11 a.m. Running Group Meet-Up, every Monday at 6 p.m. Yoga, every Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m. Zumba, every Monday from 8 to 9 a.m. For more information, visit wellepark.com.

[SOON]  GALA: Celebrate 75 Gala and Concert , February 15, 6pm
Celebrate 75 years of inspiring music all season long, and our Celebrate 75 special concert and gala experience will be the party to top them all. We invite you to support 75 more years, and beyond, of enriching lives through music by purchasing tickets to Celebrate 75. For access to the best seats and the full celebration, opt for a Gala ticket, which includes pre-concert cocktails and a gourmet dinner after the performance. Concert-only tickets are also available for purchase. The concert program, led by Creative Partner Peter Oundjian, captures all the euphoria of reaching this milestone in our history as Florida’s oldest continuously operating orchestra. After two stirring fanfares written by Aaron Copland and Joan Tower, legendary pianist Garrick Ohlsson joins Sarasota Orchestra for the monumental Piano Concerto No. 3 by Rachmaninoff. Paired with An American in Paris by Gershwin, a rhapsodic portrait of a stroll through the City of Lights, this one-night-only program promises to thrill. Gala begins at 6:00 pm, and concert begins at 7:00 pm. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, sarasotaorchestra.org.
[SOON]  FOOD: Forks and Corks Food and Wine Festival , January 25 – January 29, Various times
The 2024 Forks and Corks Food and Wine Festival, hosted by the Sarasota Manatee Originals, will take place January 25 to 29. Grand Tasting tickets go on sale in October. A full five day slate of food and wine themed fun is planned, including the University Master Classes, wine dinners at area restaurants, wine shop tasting events, a trade tasting and the much anticipated Grand Tasting at The Ringling Museum of Art. Due to the unprecedented demand for tickets, ticket sales for The Grand Tasting launch on two consecutive Tuesdays: On October 10 at 9 a.m. there is a presale of the VIP and Early Access tickets and on October 17 at 7 p.m. General Admission tickets will be available and historically have sold out in a matter of minutes. All Forks and Corks Grand Tasting tickets will be available online only. For more information, please visit www.eatlikealocal.com.
[SOON]  MUSIC: Sarasota Concert Association Presents Canadian Brass , December 4, 7:30pm

The world’s most famous brass quintet, Canadian Brass is bringing their wildly popular holiday concert to Sarasota’s Opera House on Monday, December 4 at 7:30 p.m., performing festive favorites, from Carol of the Bells to A Charlie Brown Christmas, swinging Glenn Miller tunes, and more. Celebrating 50 years of success, Single tickets start at $35 and can be purchased online at SCAsarasota.org, or through the box office at (941) 966-6161. The box office is open Monday through Friday, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Three-concert mini-subscriptions and group discounts for groups of 10 or more are available by calling (941) 966-6161.

[SOON]  MUSIC: Van Wezel Presents The Concert, A Tribute to ABBA , May 4, 8pm

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is excited to welcome The Concert, A Tribute to ABBA to Sarasota on Saturday, May 4, 2024 at 8 p.m. The Concert: A Tribute To ABBA continues to be the top ABBA tribute group in the world, dazzling all who see with their fantastic performance while playing the most iconic hits from ABBA, including Mamma Mia, S.O.S, Money, Money, Money, The Winner Takes All, Waterloo, Gimme, Gimme, Gimme, and Dancing Queen. Tickets are $30-$75 and can be purchased at www.VanWezel.org, by calling the box office at 941-263-6799 or by visiting the box office Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Groups of 10 or more should contact 941-263-6726. Pre-show dining is available through Mattisons at the Van Wezel which is located inside the theatre. Reservations can be made on VanWezel.org or through the box office.

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: 2023 Sandies Awards , November 17, 11:30am-1:15pm

The Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance (LWRBA) is pleased to announce the 2023 Sandies Awards Finalists. The Finalists and community can find out who the winners are at the annual signature event, The Sandies Members’ Choice Awards luncheon, on Friday, November 17, 11:30 am to 1:15 pm, at The Ballroom at Grove, Lakewood Ranch. Every year, The Sandies recognize LWRBA members for their remarkable talents, character, and commitment to the organization and the community. These awards honor LWRBA volunteers who strive towards the highest levels of personal and professional accomplishment, devote time and energy to our community, and forge paths of leadership for others to follow. Tickets are $65 for members and non-members. Registration is now open at www.lwrba.org/Sandies.

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