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SRQ DAILY Sep 12, 2024

Thursday Family and Recreation Edition

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Thursday Family and Recreation Edition

"We want to go to where those students are to make sure they are registered to vote and answer any election-related questions they may have."

- Ron Turner, Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections.
 

[Arts & Entertainment]  Magic Awaits at the Sarasota Toy Museum
Dylan Campbell, dylan@srqme.com

Nostalgic wonders await at Sarasota’s newest museum. The Sarasota Toy Museum opened its doors this August, featuring an impressive display of vintage and antique toys, model trains and comic books.

The museum is the brainchild of owner Richard Pierson, a retiree who after a career in fashion business, was looking for something to latch on to. A comic book aficionado, Pierson stumbled upon a gold mine when he came across the Vermont Toy Museum while vacationing in Vermont. “We were antiquing in Vermont and found ourselves at the Vermont Toy Museum. Outside was a sign which said the owner, Gary Neil, was looking to sell the place,” says Pierson. “For a laugh, I gave him a call and over the next few months we became quite friendly. I was moving down here from New Jersey and looking for something to do with my 21-year-old son, who has autism, and decided to buy the museum and bring it down here.”

Amongst the museum’s extensive collection of toys–think cap guns from the turn of the 20th century, vintage GI Joe’s, Space Race era laser guns and about 800 metal lunchboxes–is what could be considered the crown jewel: a massive replica of the Green Mountains with five levels of toy train tracks. “It’s 30 feet long and about 20 feet wide at its widest point. One of the key features is that it changes seasons as you walk around it. It has a spring side, summer side, fall side and a whole winter side,” says Pierson. “It was originally coin operated when we got it. The Sarasota Bay Model Railroad Society was instrumental in helping us reconstruct it after we shipped it down from Vermont. With their help, we were able to switch it to a digital operation where you can control the trains with your Iphone or Ipad.”

3580 17th St, Sarasota, 941-993-1897. 

  

Pictured: One of the many shelves of toys at the Sarasota Toy Museum. Photo courtesy of the musuem.

To learn more, visit.

[Voting]  Elections Office Kicks Off Student Voter Registration Tour of Sarasota County High School

Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections Ron Turner announced today the start of a three-week tour of local high schools to offer voter registration to students. “Now that the calendar has turned to September, I think many of us are beginning to focus on the November 5 General Election,” Turner said. “Likewise, students who may be voting for the first time or near voting age are beginning to pay attention as well. We want to go to where those students are to make sure they are registered to vote and answer any election-related questions they may have.” Each September, the elections office works with Sarasota County School District to schedule student voter registration events at local high schools. September is an ideal month for the voter registration events because there are often elections in November that help emphasize the importance of voting and being civically engaged. For the schools, September is usually when social studies and government classes begin covering the voting process. The student voter registration events will focus on registering students who are 18 or older, while encouraging students aged 16 and 17 to pre-register to vote. “In Florida, 16 and 17-year-olds can pre-register to vote,” Turner said. “By doing so, they will be ready to go when they turn 18, and perhaps best of all, they can participate in the election process as a student poll worker.” The student voter registration tour kicks off Tuesday with visits to Booker High School and the Sarasota Military Academy and concludes with a stop at Pine View School on Wednesday, September 25. For more information, contact the elections office at 941.861.8619. 

[Educational Program]  Robotics and Science Classes Return to Fab Lab

Following the success of an action-packed summer with 30 hands-on camps, the Suncoast Science Center/Faulhaber Fab Lab (Fab Lab) is excited to continue inspiring young minds with its Fall lineup of youth programs focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM). LEGO® RoboRumble is back! This six-week, project-based learning competition teaches students in grades 1-6 the fundamentals of robot design, construction and programming using the Scratch coding language. Working in teams, students will face the ultimate challenge: building a robot to compete in the second annual RoboRumble battle! Throughout the program, participants will hone key life skills, such as problem-solving, critical thinking and creativity. No previous coding or robotics experience is required. Classes are available on Sundays, with special sessions on Tuesdays for homeschool students. The registration fee of $330 per student includes six build sessions, a practice round, and entry into the final RoboRumble competition on December 15. Classes begin on October 6—registering sooner than later is strongly recommended! To secure a spot or learn more, visit https://suncoastscience.org/lego. STEAM Saturdays also return to the Fab Lab this October, offering a range of hands-on classes every weekend from 9:00am to 1:00pm. Designed for students in grades 2-8, these sessions cover a variety of topics, from Woodworking and Artificial Intelligence to Jewelry Design and Astronomy. Special seasonal classes like Halloween Forensics and Santa’s Maker Workshop add a fun twist to the schedule. From designing 3D models in Computer-Aided Design class to concocting a spine-tingling treat in Trick or Treat Food Science, there’s something for everyone! Classes are $50 each. For a full schedule and to register, visit https://suncoastscience.org/steam-saturdays. Both RoboRumble and STEAM Saturdays are uniquely developed and led by high school students in Fab Lab leadership programs, utilizing a peer-to-peer learning model that fosters mentorship and collaboration. This approach not only allows younger students to connect with relatable role models, but also creates a special learning environment that boosts confidence and engagement. For more details about all the innovative programming offered at the Fab Lab, visit https://suncoastscience.org. 

Pictured: Halloween fun in Chemistry STEAM Saturdays class. Photo courtesy of Fab Lab.

[Arts & Entertainment]  Project Pride SRQ Presents the Gulfcoast Pride Festival and Street Party

Local LGBTQ+ advocacy nonprofit Project Pride SRQ invites the community to the vibrant Rosemary District in downtown Sarasota for the Gulfcoast Pride Festival & Street Party, which takes place on Saturday, October 19 from 3-11 p.m. The festival was formerly known as Sarasota Pride but has been rebranded as the celebration now encompasses the former Manatee Pride event as well. The event officially launches with a parade – featuring Ken Shelin, former Sarasota City Commissioner and Vice Mayor, as Grand Marshall – down Main Street at 2 p.m. The event continues in the Rosemary District, starting at 3 p.m. It will feature: a market comprising numerous local vendor booths; a drag show featuring headliner Pork Chop, from “RuPaul’s Drag Race”; a kids’ zone with age-appropriate activities; pet zone and pet pageant; an art zone; cool-down zone; special guests and performances, including Marty, the mascot from the Bradenton Marauders and a stilt walker; and much more. The market runs from 3-8 p.m.; the street party continues through 11 p.m., with a street dance presented by SRQ Beats, and musical headliner, Zee Machine. Zee Machine (aka Joe Bissell) is an LA-based pop/rock/electronic singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. After a handful of singles, he released a seven-song EP “Can I Be Honest…” in July. He has been featured in People magazine, SPIN and other prominent outlets. Project Pride SRQ is grateful to Gulf Coast Community Foundation, the Presenting Sponsor for the Gulfcoast Pride Festival & Street Party this year. This family-friendly, free event is open to all; sponsorship opportunities are still available. Visit ppsrq.org for more information. 

Pictured: On October 19, Project Pride SRQ will present the Gulfcoast Pride Festival & Street Party.

[Homes By Towne]  Shellstone at Waterside is Now Open!

Our new Shellstone at Waterside community is now open!  We are excited to unveil new floor plans and our three new model homes available for daily tours. Homes by Towne offers 65’ and 52’ homesites with lake and preserve lots. Shellstone is more than a community, it’s a place to connect with neighbors
and enjoy life. Two resort-style amenity centers provide residents with a variety of recreation and relaxation.  Midway Park is a shared amenity that offers 13 acres for residents to explore, play and connect. From racquet sports to hoops, parks and play equipment for your kids and dogs, a variety of fitness equipment for bodyweight strength workouts, or simply gather with friends and neighbors on the event lawn. Residents of Shellstone will have exclusive access to the Summit at Shellstone which includes a social hall, fitness center, pool and spa, firepit and fitness lawn. Whether your perfect day is relaxing in a hammock or kayaking around the lake, Shellstone has your covered. For a limited time, Homes by Towne will be offering a variety of Grand Opening Incentives including lot discounts, design credits and more.  Visit us today and ask our sales associates for specific details. 

Click Here To Learn More



[Culture City]  Evidence of an Impact
Dylan Campbell, dylan@srqme.com

The connection between teacher and student is celebrated in the Teacher Artifacts of Worth Exhibit at the Sarasota Art Museum, September 2024.

 

Read Here!

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Space Saturdays , March 2 – December 7, 10am-2:30pm

Join us for Space Saturday, the first Saturday of every month, as we explore a different topic in the world of astronomy. During Space Saturdays, you will discover an out-of-this-world activity during Backyard Science, formerly Science Sprouts, in The Mosaic Backyard Universe, explore space with a staff astronomer during KidSpace in The Planetarium, and finish your day with an astronomy-themed story during Tales Under the Tree. To learn more, visit bishopscience.org.

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: City of Sarasota to Recognizes “Mermaid Fountain” , September 13, 7:30 pm

The City of Sarasota’s public art program will be commemorating the iconic “Mermaid Fountain” (formally entitled “L’Aria della Figlia Muta”) created by artist Nancy Matthews, which has been included in the Smithsonian Institution’s collection of public art sculptures. According to Mary Davis Wallace, public art manager for the city, the event will celebrate this prestigious honor on September 13 at 7:30 p.m. at Paul N. Thorpe J. Park, 135 S. Pineapple Ave., at the intersection of Pineapple and Lemon avenues in downtown Sarasota.

Paul N. Thorpe J. Park, 135 S Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  FOOD: Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch , September 3 – September 30, 10am-2pm

Experience some of the best food and flavors of the region with more than 100, and still growing, curated vendors. The Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch has fast become a favorite weekly tradition for people from all over the region seeking farm-fresh produce, delicious prepared foods, and specialty items and gifts. Aside from all the goodies you can shop at the Farmers Market, find your flow in a free yoga class or have the kiddos get creative during weekly-hosted workshops. 1561 Lakefront Dr., Lakewood Ranch.

[SOON]  BUSINESS: Lets Connect at Oscura in Old Manatee , August 31 – December 26, 8:30-10am

Connect with local business owners at every Thursday at Oscura. Lets Connect is a community of collaborative business professionals from the Manatee and Sarasota County areas. RSVP on Eventbrite to attend, admission is free.

[SOON]  GALLERY: Dog (& Cat) Dayz Of Summer , July 1 – August 8, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

This time of year had a special significance in ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, and the term originates from their studies of astrology. Nowadays, the term has taken on new meanings as pet parents associate it with lazy days when dogs are so hot they just want to lay in the shade and sip an ice-cold Puppuccino. Artists are invited to share their favorite fur-baby creations of dogs and cats.

ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  GALLERY: Oil Painters of America 2025 National Exhibition & Annual Convention , May 28 – June 27, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
The 34th National Juried Exhibition showcases the best representational paintings produced across North America. With nearly 200 juried artists and many invited Master Signature artists, it serves as a showcase for both up-and-coming talent and some of the most celebrated artists working today. The exhibition does not focus on a single style or theme but instead celebrates the diversity and art produced within the representational oil painting tradition. The exhibition & opening is in conjunction with the OPA National Convention, which features numerous lectures, painting demonstrations, and social events geared to artists and collectors.

ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  GALLERY: Manatee County School District Annual K-12 Exhibition , April 29 – May 23, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

ArtCenter Manatee once again joins with the School District of Manatee County to showcase the work of K-12 visual arts students. By partnering with ArtCenter Manatee, that commitment is furthered by giving these young artists a 'voice' - three museum-quality galleries, where their work can be professionally displayed and where the artists can receive positive recognition by a wider audience.

ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  GALLERY: Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society Annual Aqueous Exhibition , March 4 – March 28, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

The Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society was founded in 1983 with 17 Charter members and 24 Associate members. The original purpose to foster the advancement of and promote excellence in the art of watermedia painting remains their focus today. As of August 2023, 90 of their 170 members attained Signature status and 27 are Master Signature members.

ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  GALLERY: Roots & Reflections Through Memory & Nature , January 28 – February 28, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Denise Cormier Mahoney is a mid-career painter and printmaker whose illustrative and surfaced designed compositions are infused with memories and stories told from the point of view of a child free to explore.

ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  GALLERY: Women Contemporary Artists , January 2 – January 24, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Women Contemporary Artists (WCA) is an established organization of women in the visual arts based in Florida’s Sarasota and Manatee counties. Their mission is to provide visibility, support and inspiration to women artists. Founded in 1984, a group of twenty women artists in the region developed a plan to form a group to encourage other women artists in their artistic journeys. This talented group of women artists has continually grown each year and now has more than 150 regional members.

ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Nutcracker, Magical Christmas Ballet , December 27, Various times
NUTCRACKER Magical Christmas Ballet returns to captivate audiences this holiday season at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall on December 27, 2024 at 3pm and 7pm. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.nutcracker.com or www.VanWezel.org.
[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Fresh Harvest Farmers Market at Wellen Park , June 25 – May 31, 9 am to 1 pm

Visit Fresh Harvest, the newly launched weekly farmers market in Downtown Wellen. Fresh Harvest offers a selection of local goods from nearly 40 local vendors. Fresh Harvest takes place every Sunday in Downtown Wellen from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees can peruse different vendor booths and stock up on a variety of goods. Vendors will offer a wide variety of locally grown and produced food, including herbs, spices, cut flowers, teas, canned and preserved fruits and vegetables, syrups, baked goods, pickled foods, fresh seafood, meats, poultry, eggs, milk and prepared food and beverages. A limited selection of craft vendors also participate in the farmers market. For a listing of participating vendors and more information on Fresh Harvest Farmers Market, visit wellenpark.com/events/fresh-harvest-farmers-market. Downtown Wellen, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd., Venice.

[SOON]  GALLERY: ArtCenter Manatee Holiday Extravaganza , November 26 – December 27, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
ArtCenter Manatee is proud to present the 5th Annual Holiday Extravaganza, featuring holiday trees decked to their fullest with thousands of handmade ornaments, handmade holiday décor, gifts and more.

ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  MUSEUM: Free Second Sundays , March 10 – December 8, 11am-5pm

Enjoy a day of art and family fun at Sarasota Art Museum. On the second Sunday of each month, we offer free admission for visitors, special performances, and art-making activities for the whole family. To learn more, visit sarasotaartmuseum.org.

[SOON]  MUSIC: Friday Fest , May 24 – October 4, 5-9pm

Friday Fest, the free, outdoor summertime concert series at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall returns with an exciting lineup of bands who will bring the audience to their feet. This year the festivities kick off in May. Each event runs from 5-9 p.m. on the lawn of the Van Wezel overlooking beautiful Sarasota Bay. Bring blankets or lawn chairs, take in the music and the sunset, and enjoy food and beverages from local vendors. 

[SOON]  THEATER: Seussical the Musical , September 12 – September 22, 2pm, 7:30pm

The Cat in the Hat tells the story of Horton, an elephant who discovers a speck of dust that contains the Whos, including Jojo, a Who child sent off to military school for thinking too many "thinks." Horton faces a double challenge: not only must he protect the Whos from a world of naysayers and dangers, but he must guard an abandoned egg, left in his care by the irresponsible Mayzie. Although Horton faces ridicule, danger, kidnapping and a trial, the intrepid Gertrude never loses faith in him. Will everything work out for our heroes? You’ll find out!

The Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

SRQ Media Group

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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