« Back To SRQ Daily Archive

SRQ DAILY Sep 26, 2024

Thursday Family and Recreation Edition

Please allow images to view this email properly

Thursday Family and Recreation Edition

"So many of our wonderful teachers go above and beyond in service to their students and their schools."

- Teri A Hansen, President and CEO, Barancik Foundation.
 

[Parks]  Experience the Wonders of Myakka River State Park
Dylan Campbell, dylan@srqme.com

While the white sand beaches, glittering ocean waves and calming bays are what Florida's Gulf Coast is most commonly known for, a quick trip inland reveals an entirely different world within reach. Myakka River State Park, one of Florida’s oldest and largest state parks, cuts through the heart of Sarasota, encircling the twelve miles of the Myakka River that run through Sarasota county.

“The Myakka River is a rain-fed river which means that its levels greatly fluctuate depending on precipitation. During the summer, which is typically our rainy season, the levels of the river rise and overflow into the Myakka River’s floodplains and hydric hammocks, basically flooding the park. This is absolutely natural for this area and the ecosystems have adapted to those fluctuating levels of water,” says Dr. Miri Hardy, Executive Director of Friends of Myakka River, a citizens support organization for the state park. “The wildlife loves it and for park visitors, this time of year is a magical time to visit the park because there’s water everywhere. It’s amazingly beautiful, but also just goes to show you the importance of floodplains and how watersheds naturally function.”

With over 37,000 acres of protected land, the Myakka River State Park effectively is the Myakka River’s watershed. The river and its floodplains breathe life into the park’s incredibly diverse array of flora and fauna–within the large swaths of Florida Dry Prairie, hydric hammocks and swamps can be found all sorts of endangered species, such as the American Alligator, Florida Scrub-Jay, the Gopher Tortoise and Crested Caracara to name a few. Visitors can experience this amazing ecosystem in any number of ways. A canopy walkway, the first public treetop trail in North America, sits 25 feet above the ground and stretches along the top of a hardwood hammock, providing ample views of the vegetation and wildlife below. A bird walk winds through the swamps and wetlands of the park. Hiking, biking and horseback trails snake through the entirety of the state park and flat-bottomed boat tours are offered daily throughout the year.

13208 State Rd, Sarasota, 941-361-6511, floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/myakka-river-state-park; friendsofmyakkariver.org/ 

Pictured: Myakka River State Park. Photo courtesy of Friends of Myakka River, taken by Executive Director, Dr. Miri Hardy.

[Education]  Deadline to Submit Name Nominations for New East County K-8 School This Friday

The School Board of Manatee County is accepting name nominations for a new East County K-8 school through Friday, September 27, 2024. The school is currently under construction east of Uihlein Road, approximately a quarter of a mile south of S.R. 64. It's scheduled to open in August 2025. School name nominations must include the person’s name who is submitting the name nomination, and their email address, phone number or both. You can look for information about the school naming process on the home page of the school district’s website at www.manateeschools.net, under “District Top Stories.” School name nominations can be submitted in the following ways: Email nominations to: communications@manateeschools.net. Mail nominations to: The School District of Manatee County, PO Box 9069, Bradenton, FL 34206-9069. Personally deliver nominations to: Miller School Support Center, 215 Manatee Ave. W., in Bradenton. Name nominations for the East County K-8 school will be accepted through Friday, September 27, 2024. Nominations have been accepted since August 28, 2024. The School Board will publish the list of the name nominations submitted on its district website on Tuesday, October 1, 2024. The School Board will then discuss the list of names at a regularly scheduled School Board meeting on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, where a list of finalists will be selected. The School Board is scheduled to select the name of the new K-8 school at its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. Public comment on the name nominations is welcomed at all School Board meetings and workshops in September and October, 2024. 

To learn more, visit.

[Recognition ]  Five Sarasota County Teachers Earn Ripple Effect Award

“I’m not usually speechless, but…,” Kevin Purcell said, trailing off. Mr. Purcell, a 21-year educator at Heron Creek Middle School, had just been presented with the Ripple Effect Teacher Award from Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation.  He was one of five Sarasota County Schools teachers who were surprised with the award at their schools on Friday, Sept. 20. The Ripple Effect Teacher Awards program celebrates teachers in the Sarasota County School District who have made a lasting impact in their classrooms, schools, and beyond.  Twice a year, in partnership with the school district, Barancik Foundation presents Ripple Effect awards to five teachers.  Each recipient, who is nominated by their school principal, receives $5,000 from the Foundation. “So many of our wonderful teachers go above and beyond in service to their students and their schools,” said Teri A Hansen, president|CEO of Barancik Foundation.  “This award is just one way we can recognize and thank outstanding teachers for the meaningful difference they make for their students, their colleagues, and our community.”  The Fall 2024 Ripple Effect Award winners are: Rob Rowe, North Port High School; Kevin Purcell, Heron Creek Middle School; Tarra Martello, Brentwood Elementary School; Julia Tilford, Alta Vista Elementary School; Edgar Vazquez, Booker High School. Throughout the morning of Sept. 20, a group that included the superintendent and other school district leadership as well as members of the Barancik Foundation board and staff visited each school to present the awards.  Superintendent Connor read from the nomination submitted by each winner’s principal, then a Barancik Foundation representative presented them with a framed award certificate and their check.  School administrators, fellow teachers and staff, excited students, and, in some cases, proud family members were in on the surprise and cheered on the honorees. The Ripple Effect Teacher Awards were created in 2021 in memory of Margie and Chuck Barancik.  Margie was a teacher herself, and both were passionate advocates for Sarasota’s educators and students.  Barancik Foundation presents the awards in September and May to commemorate the respective birthdays of Margie (September 29) and Chuck (May 27).  The award’s name recalls something Margie memorably said about the couple’s philanthropy: “We can’t change the world, but we can change little pieces of it and hope for a ripple effect.”  To date, Barancik Foundation has recognized 40 Sarasota County Schools educators with the Ripple Effect Teacher Award. 

[Arts & Entertainment]  Venice Symphony Music Director to Conduct New Year’s Eve Concert with the Boston Pops Featuring Broadway Legend Bernadette Peters

Music Director of The Venice Symphony, Troy Quinn, has been selected for the prestigious opportunity to conduct with the Boston Pops during their highly anticipated New Year’s Eve Concert, featuring the legendary Broadway icon Bernadette Peters to ring out 2024. The event, set for December 31 at 8:00 PM, promises an unforgettable evening filled with timeless Broadway hits and more. Emmy-nominated conductor Troy Quinn, known for his dynamic and sensitive conducting style, will lead the orchestra during the first half of the concert. Quinn, who is in his seventh season as Music Director of The Venice Symphony, has gained acclaim for his versatility and artistry, having worked with prestigious orchestras across the country. The second half of the program will be conducted by Joseph Thalken, Ms. Peters' music director, who will also accompany her at the piano. Together, they will showcase Peters' iconic voice and charismatic stage presence, making this concert a must-see for Broadway enthusiasts and music lovers alike. Tickets are available on the Boston Pops website. 

Pictured: Troy Quinn will conduct with the Boston Pops during their New Year’'s Eve Concert. Photo courtesy of The Venice Symphony.

[Halloween]  The Bazaar Presents Family-Friendly Trick or Treating Indoors

Get ready for a spooktacular day of fun and festivities at the highly anticipated "Boo! At The Bazaar”! A day filled with treats, live music, and magical moments on Saturday, October 26th from 11am to 3pm at The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime. To make the event even more enchanting, Belles Princess Parties in joining us! Capture unforgettable memories with your favorite Disney princesses and villains, perfect for photo opportunities that your children will cherish forever. This free, family-friendly event promises to be a hauntingly good time for all ages! Families can stroll through our vibrant bazaar, where every booth will be overflowing with candy and special surprises. Dress in your favorite costumes and join in the fun as we celebrate the spirit of Halloween together! The Bazaar is located at 821 Apricot Ave in Sarasota. For more information, please contact www.bazaaronapricotandlime.com. 

[Food Program]  All Faiths Food Bank Prepares for Helene

As soon-to-be Hurricane Helene continues its track toward landfall in Florida, All Faiths Food Bank (AFFB) is on the ground providing food and water to shelters, disaster relief organizations and potential storm victims in our community. As one of the lead emergency response agencies in Sarasota and the state, All Faiths Food Bank has already initiated the movement of product: Wednesday morning, AFFB drivers delivered 44,000 lbs. of emergency water and nearly 26,000 lbs. of MREs (Meals, Ready-to-Eat) as well as cots to all 14 evacuation shelters in Sarasota County. Delivered nearly 14,000 lbs. of disaster response supplies – including water and MREs – to AFFB’s DeSoto Food and Resource Center for potential post-storm relief. As of this (Wednesday) morning, AFFB will have two team members stationed at the Sarasota County Emergency Operations Center around-the-clock throughout the duration of the storm. Many food distributions scheduled for this week have already been canceled – community members are encouraged to visit AFFB's website, allfaithsfoodbank.org, “Food Finder” link, as well as its social media platforms for updates on additional closures and potential disaster relief efforts. All Faiths Food Bank also works with Feeding Florida and sister food banks around the state to coordinate recovery efforts, stage product, and transport food to Florida communities affected by the storm. Depending on the magnitude and location of the damage, AFFB’s fleet of trucks and its food may be deployed to other food banks in Florida. The national organization, Feeding America, will coordinate resources from around the nation to help sustain relief efforts. “Our thoughts are with those who will be affected by Hurricane Helene,” said Nelle S. Miller, president and CEO of All Faiths Food Bank. “We want to reassure the community that we have been doing this for many years, and the planning for any disaster goes on year-round – not just during hurricane season. Please know that we are here to support you and are ready to respond to any needs that may arise.” At this time, AFFB plans to close its offices at 2 p.m. today and remain closed Thursday, pending storm developments and impacts. Local community support will be needed after the storm; AFFB will communicate specific needs as they are determined. If you need food or want more information about Hurricane Helene and AFFB’s hunger relief efforts, please visit allfaithsfoodbank.org. 

Pictured: Even before the storm makes landfall, All Faiths Food Bank is delivering water and Meals, Ready-to-Eat (MREs) to evacuation shelters in Sarasota County and the DeSoto Food and Resource Center in Arcadia. Provided photo/AFFB.



[Living Lakewood]  Saving Lives
Barbie Heit, barbie.heit@srqme.com

With over 75 years of experience in delivering precious life-saving products in our community, SunCoast Blood Centers is the go-to partner for blood-related healthcare services in Southwest Florida, September 2024.

 

Read Here!

[SOON]  FOOD: New Deck Party , September 27, 12:00 pm - 2:00 am

To show off our brand new look, we will be hosting a NEW DECK PARTY on September 27th! An all day event that will include our regular happy hour and live music, as well as a few extra specials- $3.14 Slices of Pizza (cheese or pepperoni), $1 Wings (increments of 5 please) and 10 for $10 Jell-O Shots We are beyond excited to head into another great season with all of our favorite locals and repeat tourists. We cannot wait for all the new dancing and memories that will take place under our tiki. Let's Party!

3.14 Pizza, 5263 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key, FL 34242

[SOON]  SEMINAR: Spectrum Sailing Upcoming Camps Across the Country for Autistic Children , September 30 – November 22, Various Times

Registration is open for the 2024 fall semester at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Ringling College, which offers noncredit educational opportunities for adults to pursue new interests, expand intellectual horizons, and enrich their lives. The semester, which runs Sept. 30-Nov. 22, 2024, features more than 60 courses, lectures, workshops, and special presentations covering a wide variety of topics, including arts and entertainment, history, music appreciation, health, literature, philosophy, religion, and science.

Various Locations

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: Adopt-A-Palooza , September 28, 11:00am - 3:00pm

Adopt-A-Palooza is the largest one-day pet adoption and expo event in Manatee County, featuring over 100 adoptable pets from Manatee County Animal Welfare (MCAW), local shelters, and animal rescues—all under one roof! The announcement of this event comes at a critical time. Our county shelters are currently at full capacity with 62 cats, more than 115 dogs and 3 rabbits.

Bradenton Area Convention Center, 1 Haben Blvd Palmetto, FL 34221

[SOON]  MUSIC: Baroque Banquet , September 29, 4:oopm

A veritable feast of Baroque gems opens the Chamber Soirée season. Ceremonial brass set the stage for J.S. Bach's festive Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 for strings. The percussion have their moment with Philidor’s March for Two Pairs of Timpani, which was first performed for King Louis XIV in 1683. Igor Stravinsky's glorious Neo-Baroque Pulcinella Suite concludes this royal banquet.

Holley Hall, 709 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota FL 34236

[SOON]  FESTIVAL: Pink Together: Breast Cancer Warriors Celebration , October 13, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

The "Pink Together: Breast Cancer Warriors Celebration" is set to be an inspiring day of hope, unity, and community support. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear powerful stories from local breast cancer warriors who have bravely faced their journeys with strength and resilience. The event will also feature live music from two bands, including the popular Dr. Dave Band, creating a lively and uplifting atmosphere.

Motorworks Brewing, 1014 9th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: SRQ Magazine's Annual Together We Roar Leadership and Awards Luncheon , October 25, 10:30am

SRQ MEDIA, powered by the Women Who Roar Initiative, will host the 9th Annual Women Who Roar: Together We Roar Leadership and Awards Luncheon at Michael's on East. We will recognize all of the ambassadors of the Women Who Roar Leadership Circle, the new 2024 Women Who Roar nominees and will announce the honorees who will be inducted into the esteemed 2024 Women Who Roar (WWR) Leadership Circle this year. Please join us to honor women who make a difference in our community. Featuring our 2024 Trailblazer Award Recipient Kate White and 2024 Illuminator Award Recipient Elyse Delucci. Join us for the pop-up boutiques starting at 10:30am. Registration opens at 11am and the program runs from 11:30am-1:15pm.

Michael's On East Ballroom, 1212 S. East Avenue, Sarasota

[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Let Freedom Read Day , September 28, 1:00-3:00pm

"Forward For Freedom: Leading Educators Tell Their Stories," features three exciting speakers on LET FREEDOM READ DAY (Sat, Sept 28), during Banned Books Week 2024. It is a free community event designed to recognize and celebrate librarians and teachers, and all others who value the First Amendment rights to freedom of expression, and freedom of the press.

Unitarian Universalists of Sarasota sanctuary, 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232

[SOON]  GALLERY: 502 Gallery | Shopliftable , August 5 – November 9, Tuesday to Saturday, 12-7pm

The inaugural exhibition, Shopliftable, will feature artworks small enough to steal by 50 of Sarasota's favorite artists, highlighting the gallery's commitment to innovative and engaging presentations. Marilyn Anderson, Mark Anderson, Joseph Arnegger, Jorge Blanco, Don Brandes, Matteo Caloiaro, Thomas Carabasi, Tom Casmer, Omar Chacon, Tylor Trobaugh Christian, Jessie Clark, Keith Crowley, Ian Dean, Jack Dowd, Linda Driggs, Regan Dunnick, Joe Fig, Gale Fulton-Ross, Sheryl Haler, Nancy Hielscher, Christina Hess, Virginia Hoffman, Cassia Kite, Keith Losh, Mike Marsicano, Noelle McCleaf, Jenny Medved, Joseph Melancon, Janna Millstone, Brooke Olivares-Caloiaro, Meg Peirce, George Pratt, Mary Grandpre, Vicky Randall, Taylor Robenalt, Jared Robison, Marina Shaltout, Eszter Sziksz, Tom Stephens, Steven Strenk, Rob Tarbell, and Rose Marjanneke Williamson.

502 Gallery, 502 S. Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota

[SOON]  GRAB BAG: Downtown Wellen Park Night Market , August 8 – May 8, 6-9pm

The Wellen Park Night Market returns the second Thursday of each month from 6-9pm offering an evening of shopping, live music and dining under the twinkling lights of Downtown Wellen. The Night Market features independent artists and makers specializing in art, jewelry, boutique fashion, home decor, bottle art, wood designs and specialty food items set up along Wellen Park Boulevard with 50 rotating vendors. Food items included rum cakes, desserts, lemonade, barbecue and vegan fare.

Wellen Park, 19745 Wellen Pk Blvd

[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]  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]  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]  MUSEUM: Shinique Smith, Parade , January 4 – January 5, Various times

Enjoy the extraordinary opportunity to experience the work of contemporary artist Shinique Smith in conversation with the collection of European art at The Ringling. Unfolding across six galleries of the Museum of Art, the exhibition creates a series of unique stories that together form an abstract narrative of the parade as a metaphor for life. Well known for her monumental sculptures created from an array of materials, including luxurious textiles, personal clothing, dyed fabrics, ribbon, and wood, and for her abstract paintings of calligraphy and collage, Smiths work in this exhibition speaks to various facets of the European artistic tradition, such as classical drapery and religious iconography, while foregrounding notions of Black femininity and the history of the circus. Learn more at ringling.org.

[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]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: STEAM Saturdays Classes , September 14 – December 28, Various Times

Join us every Saturday for a FUN, hands on exploration into different areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math! Students will take part in unique activities and collaborative challenges plus create take-home projects using high-tech Fab Lab equipment like the vinyl cutter, laser cutter, foam cutter and more.

Suncoast Science Center, 4452 S Beneva Road Sarasota Florida 34233

[SOON]  FOOD: Game Watching at Pie on Main , September 10 – December 31, 11:00 am - 12:00 am

Since we opened in January, SRQ is getting to know us for our hand-tossed & crafted Pie's, Calzones, Sammies & Salads + our tasty beverages. Now you can join your buddies for what some call 'the most wonderful time of the year' - FOOTBALL SEASON! Drop in when you're strolling on Main to catch your team or join your buddies for Pie On Main's Game Watching parties, featuring Happy Hours from 4-7:00 Daily, plus our Special Sub of the Day and extensive selection of Domestic and craft taps. Ask your friendly barkeep about our Tuesday Karaoke or our sister restaurant, 3.14 Pi in Siesta Village. Convenient parking in our lot on First Street.

Pie on Main, 1507 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]  : Heroes and Hostages: A Journey of Courage and Sacrifice , September 29, 3:00pm

Sarasota Jewish Theatre (SJT) is honored to present a special program to commemorate the October 7, 2023 terrorist attack in Israel. “Heroes and Hostages: A Journey of Courage and Sacrifice,” presented in collaboration with the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, The Players Centre, and the Sarasota Jewish Chorale, will feature speakers, music, dance, and videos.

The Players Centre Studio, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota FL 34239

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

Copyright © 2024 by SRQ Media Group, 331 South Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236.
Powered by Sarasota Web Design | Unsubscribe

Read More

Lost in the Woods

Lost in the Wood

Dylan Campbell | Sep 1, 2024

European Elegance

European Elegance

Eliana Burns | Sep 1, 2024

Silent Star

Silent Star

Eliana Burns | Sep 1, 2024

Craftsman of the Seas

Craftsman of the Seas

Dylan Campbell | Sep 1, 2024