SRQ DAILY Nov 19, 2025
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"The Bazaar loves offering unique ways to entertain people as well as support nonprofits."
If you're ready for a seriously adorable dog show, you're barking up the right tree! This Saturday, The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime and Satchel’s Last Resort are teaming up for their furry friends with the West-Mutt-ster Dog Show.
This tail-wagging event is free to attend and filled with fun, laughter and plenty of local love. Dog owners are invited to enter their pups in one of three lively categories: Pint Size for the tiny pups with big personalities, Large and In Charge for the gentle giants and Senior Strut for wise and wonderful older friends. Every dog participating in the West-Mutt-ster dog show will also be included in the People’s Choice competition, where attendees can vote for their overall favorite.
Registration is just $10 per dog per category, with 100% of proceeds benefiting Satchel’s Last Resort, a local animal rescue focused on pets with special behavioral or medical needs. Satchel’s offers a second chance for animals that others might turn away.
Participants must register in advance by November 20. Prizes–promised to be good ones–will be awarded in each category. Judges will be looking for personality, obedience, appearance and razzle-dazzle—yes, tricks count! And while costumes aren't required, dressing your pet is highly recommended! Stay tuned for the announcement of celebrity judges. And get ready to meet some adorable adoptable dogs from Satchel’s who will be on-site looking for their forever homes.
“The Bazaar loves offering unique ways to entertain people as well as support nonprofits. Since we are always dog-friendly and we love working with Satchel’s Last Resort, this seemed like a fun idea,” says Kim Livengood, co-owner of The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime. “And we were able to work with our neighbors and vendors to provide awesome prizes so enter your pup(s) today!”
Whether you’re competing or just coming to cheer on the pups, the West-Mutt-ster Dog Show promises to be a barking good time for all!
Saturday, November 22, 11am, The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime, 821 Apricot Ave, Sarasota.
Key Chorale has been awarded a $5,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County to help support ongoing digital marketing projects. Funding has been provided by the Dallas and Elizabeth Dort Charitable Fund of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County.
In partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County, Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) will spread holiday cheer by giving away 200 five-foot Christmas trees and LED energy-efficient tree lights to local residents. The trees and lights will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and supplies are limited to the first 200 households. FPL will also be on site to share tips and resources to help customers keep their bills as low as possible all season long with simple energy-efficient changes. For over 70 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County’s Annual Christmas Tree Lot has been a community tradition, helping to bring holiday cheer into local homes and create great futures for children and teens. Proceeds from the tree lot support Boys & Girls Club of Manatee County’s enrichment programs such as fine arts, sports, career exploration, workforce readiness, homework help, health and wellness, advocacy and more. The organization serves over 2,500 youth at five Clubs across the county.
Tuesday, Nov. 25, 5–7pm, Line opens at 4pm, Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County Christmas Tree Lot (near Publix at Westgate Shopping Center) 3913 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.
All Star Children’s Foundation CEO Denise Marzullo was among a select group of child-welfare leaders invited to the White House on Thursday, November 13, for the signing of a landmark executive order on foster care, recognizing their contributions to improving outcomes for children in foster care. President Donald J. Trump, joined by First Lady Melania Trump, signed the “Fostering the Future” Executive Order—a key initiative of the First Lady’s “Be Best” campaign that will expand career, mentorship, and education opportunities for youth in foster care across the nation. For more information about All Star Children’s Foundation and its work to create brighter futures for children in foster care, visit www.allstarchildren.org
Children First, a nationally recognized nonprofit delivering high-quality early childhood education and family strengthening programs, is honored to announce more than $400,000 in recent grant support from philanthropic partners committed to advancing early learning, family well-being, and comprehensive services for children and families with the greatest needs. These generous investments will help expand access to high-quality early learning, provide vital family support, and fuel key agency initiatives - including workforce development, the Changemaker Collective match campaign, and parent education through the award-winning Families First Institute. For more information, call (941) 953-3877 or go to childrenfirst.net.
The Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation (SAHP) announced its 2025 “Six to Save'' properties at an event held on November 13 at Luke Wood Park in Sarasota. Now in its fifth year, this initiative highlights the urgent need to save historic resources from demolition in Sarasota County. This year’s list includes the home of one of Sarasota’s first aldermen, the county’s signature swing bridge, and the area’s first commercial garage—structures dating as far back as 1912. “The Six to Save properties reflect what is happening to our community—renowned for its charm and architectural interest—as it faces continued growth,” said Dave Baber, president of SAHP. “This year’s selections range from a mid-century modern showpiece home now on the market to a public park in need of attention and privately held downtown buildings under development pressure.”
Senior Friendship Centers invites family caregivers to its 20th Annual Caregivers Forum on Friday, February 6, 2026, at the Harvest House Venue in Sarasota. This event is designed for anyone caring for a loved one, whether facing a new diagnosis, chronic illness, dementia, or the frailties of aging.
The morning includes a keynote by Dr. Derrick DeSilva, an internal medicine physician specializing in holistic wellness, followed by two interactive panel discussions featuring leaders from the Area Agency on Aging, Sarasota County Government, and local caregiving experts. Attendees will enjoy breakfast, networking, and access to community resource booths.
Caregivers Forum 2026, Friday, February 6, 2026, 8:00am–12:00pm, House Venue, Sarasota, Tickets are $25 at https://SFC2026.eventbrite.com. Space is limited to 100 attendees.
John and Amanda Horne, founders of Oysters Rock Hospitality, have been awarded the NAACP Manatee Community Service Award for their leadership and dedication to education through the Dive Into Reading program. The program began as a simple idea to help young readers avoid summer learning loss and has grown substantially, supported by volunteers, mentors, and community partners. Each summer, students build confidence, improve reading skills, and form meaningful connections with mentors who guide and encourage them. This recognition from the NAACP highlights the significant educational impact Dive Into Reading continues to have in classrooms and across the community. The award was presented at the 2025 Freedom Fund Banquet on November 8 at the Manatee Performing Arts Center in Bradenton.
Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (BGCSDC) has been honored by Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) with the National Safety Committee of the Year Award for its outstanding commitment to creating safe, supportive, and empowering environments for youth. This recognition highlights BGCSDC’s exceptional efforts to strengthen its culture of safety through the work of iits Safety Committee, a diverse group of leaders representing law enforcement, education, healthcare, fire safety, law, insurance, youth, and the organization’s Board of Directors. The Safety Committee’s collaborative, forward-thinking leadership exemplifies BGCSDC’s mission to provide safe, enriching spaces where youth can thrive. Learn more at bgcsdc.org.
For many years, in addition to its regular food distributions, All Faiths Food Bank has held large-scale turkey distributions across DeSoto County, providing turkeys and all the trimmings to neighbors in need in advance of Thanksgiving. These distributions are part of the annual ThankFULL campaign, a three-month community effort to raise funds for 14,500 turkeys and 4.1 million holiday meals for families across Sarasota and DeSoto counties. This year's large-scale distributions for Sarasota County residents take place at the following locations and times: Ed Smith Stadium (2700 12th St., Sarasota) Wednesday, Nov. 19, 4-6 p.m. (in partnership with the Baltimore Orioles); Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall (777 N. Tamiami Tr., Sarasota) on Saturday, Nov. 22, 9-11 a.m.; and in South County, community members can find turkey dinners at Englewood Sports Complex (1300 S River Rd., Englewood) on Nov. 20, 9-10:30 a.m. Visit pinesofsarasota.org to learn more.
Every child deserves a chance to grow, heal, and thrive. The Florida Center for Early Childhood’s second annual Wonder Gala, on Friday, December 5 at The Ora, is a night that makes those possibilities real. This powerful celebration honors the courage of children and families who have overcome immense challenges—and the compassion of a community that helps them succeed. Guests will experience moving narratives, the inspiring “Wonder Wall” of portraits, a gourmet feast by Michael’s On East, an open bar, and powerful performances by rising vocalist Allison Nash and Soul Sensations—sure to fill the dance floor. More than an evening of elegance, the Wonder Gala is a call to hope—where generosity transforms lives and dreams take root.
A young student at The Florida Center's Starfish Academy offers a joyful "thank you" to the community that helps children thrive.
The Jazz Club of Sarasota has received a $7,500 grant from the Lola G. Hanna Fund of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County to support ongoing capacity-building efforts following its participation in the Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County’s Summer Marketing and Fundraising Intensive, a professional development program focused on strengthening fundraising, marketing, and organizational sustainability across the region’s arts sector. The grant was awarded after the workshops concluded, in recognition of the Jazz Club’s active participation, its readiness to implement what was learned, and its growing role in the cultural landscape of Sarasota. Jazz Club board president Ed Linehan and development director Danielle La Senna attended the series, which provided peer learning opportunities and personalized coaching to support growth and strategic development.
Lakewood Ranch President and CEO Rex Jensen has been named recipient of the C. John A. Clarke Community Humanitarian of the Year Award, presented by the Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation. The award, announced Thursday evening during the Foundation’s Soirée at the Ranch at the Lakewood Ranch Country Club, is given annually to an individual whose leadership has made a lasting impact on the community. Named for C. John A. Clarke, whose foresight and values helped shape the early vision of Lakewood Ranch, the award honors individuals who exemplify integrity, service, and a deep commitment to community. For Jensen, the honor represents more than personal achievement; it reflects the shared dedication of the people and organizations that have helped make Lakewood Ranch one of the nation’s most livable and connected multigenerational communities. For more information, visit LakewoodRanch.com.
The Orioles will partner with All Faiths Food Bank to host their annual “ThankFULL” Thanksgiving turkey distribution for families in need in the Sarasota Community. The All Faiths Food Bank Turkey Distribution Drive, a tradition at Ed Smith Stadium since 2014, is a vital initiative that ensures those in need in Sarasota can enjoy a Thanksgiving meal. Held in the East parking lot of the Orioles’ spring campus, this event is a part of All Faiths Food Bank's broader mission to end hunger in the community. This year marks the sixth straight year in which the Orioles and All Faiths Food Bank have hosted a turkey distribution at Ed Smith Stadium. In 2024, the campaign successfully distributed more than 13,000 turkeys and other side dishes to families across various locations, with a significant portion of the distributions taking place at the Ed Smith Stadium campus. Orioles staff, as part of the Orange & Black Gives Back employee volunteer program, will also be on-site to assist.
Wednesday, November 19, from 4-6pm, Ed Smith Stadium – East Lot, 2700 12th Street, Sarasota.
Sarasota Memorial Nursing & Rehabilitation Center was named among the nation’s best nursing homes, recognized for both short-term rehabilitation and long-term care in U.S. News’ annual “Best Nursing Homes” ratings released this week. Since 2009, U.S. News has recognized the best nursing homes (also called skilled nursing facilities) to help prospective residents and their families make informed decisions about where to receive nursing home care. The 2026 list recognizes the top 1,200 nursing homes of approximately 15,000 evaluated across the nation. This is the fourth year in a row that the Sarasota Memorial Nursing and Rehabilitation Center has been nationally recognized by U.S. News. The skilled nursing facility also has been repeatedly ranked among the nation’s best nursing homes by Newsweek and awarded 5-star quality ratings from the federal Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services. For information, referrals or questions about Sarasota Memorial Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, please call 941-917-4950 or visit smh.com/rehab.
When President Kennedy vowed to put a man on the moon, the task landed in the hands of a band of maverick engineers – once the misfits of American science. With no rulebook, they embraced “blue-skying,” drawing inspiration from Buck Rogers, Greek myths, Louis Leakey, and even Snoopy and the Red Baron.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
An interactive exhibition exploring mental health, storytelling, and imagination through LEGO.
Galleries of Ringling College of Art and Design, 2700 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34234
Art Center Sarasota's Annual Juried Members Show fills all four galleries in celebration of our Centennial Season. This inclusive, unthemed exhibition showcases the diverse talents of our member artists across a wide range of styles and mediums, from bold abstractions to detailed realism. With guaranteed inclusion for all who submit, the show reflects our commitment to accessibility, creativity, and the vibrant spirit that has defined our community for 100 years.
ArtCenter Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
A lively afternoon of song and dance with 100 percent of the proceeds going to help rebuild Venice Theatre. Singers from The Sarasota Players and Venice Theatre, along with the Showtime Dancers and Silver Foxes Dancers, will delight and entertain. Get your tickets early as this show will sell out!
Venice Community Center, 326 Nokomis Ave. Venice
This smart, dark revenge comedy by Lauren Gunderson takes a Shakespearean stage direction and runs with it. Hilarious, poignant, and wickedly empowering, the play follows a woman taking control of her story, with duct tape, a frozen steak, and a wild plan.
FSU/Asolo Conservatory, 5555 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Step into the spotlight with One Hit Wonders, a toe-tapping celebration of those unforgettable songs that lit up the charts and became part of our lives. From the epic storytelling of “American Pie” to the carefree whistle of “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” this show celebrates the artists who gave us a single great hit.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Feel the passion, the power, and the unforgettable music of Neil Diamond come alive as award-winning tribute artist Keith Allynn takes you on a heartwarming, toe-tapping journey through the life and music of a legend. From the iconic hits of the ’60s to today’s classics, Allynn doesn’t just sing Neil—he shares his story.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 3rd Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Marking a decade of fearless artistry, enSRQ looks back on the works that have inspired both musicians and audiences over the past 10 years—while also showcasing exciting new voices. Caroline Shaw’s “Entr’acte” reframes the elegance of classical form through a contemporary lens. A new co-commission from Che Buford arrives as part of the Cross-Country Chamber Consortium, brimming with fresh ideas and vivid color. Roger Zare’s “Finding Equilibrium,” a world premiere, pairs string quartet with bass clarinet in a balance of lyricism and energy. Closing the evening, Kevin Puts’ “And Legions Will Rise” sends violin, clarinet, and marimba into an exhilarating, uplifting culmination.
First Congressional Church, 1031 S. Euclid Ave., Sarasota
Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring was so novel and unprecedented that a riot broke out at its premiere. A tour de force for the orchestra musicians and conductor, its live performance is a not-to-be-missed event. Violinist Benjamin Beilman brings his trademark flair to Mozart’s final and most virtuosic violin concerto. The program opens with Joan Tower’s 1920/2019, composed in 2019 to honor the 1920 passage of the 19th amendment granting women suffrage.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
The Things Around Us is a dazzling new work from acclaimed multi-disciplinary artist, Ahamefule J. Oluo, that layers live music and narrative exploration to create an introspective evening about the things that connect us all. It is the third in a trilogy of shows from Oluo, following Now I’m Fine and Susan.
Historic Asolo Theatre, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
Winner of seven Tony Awards, Annie follows a spirited orphan’s journey to find her family. With heart, humor and hope, she outwits Miss Hannigan and finds happiness with billionaire Oliver Warbucks.
Venice Theatre, 140 Tampa Ave W, Venice, FL 34285
The Sarasota Ballet Presents Martha Graham Dance Company.
FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34243
Experience the music that made the movies with a selection of Hollywood classics. This cinematic journey includes music from Fiddler on the Roof, The Avengers, My Fair Lady, The Greatest Showman, and more. Our guest artist for this concert is famed Hollywood violinist Roger Wilkie.
Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Ave Building 5, Venice, FL 34285
In the rubble of the London Blitz of World War II, Alice Spencer’s budding teen life is turned upside down, and she and her dear friend Alfred are forced to take shelter in an underground tube station. When the ailing Alfred is quarantined, Alice encourages him to escape with her into their cherished book and journey down the rabbit hole to Wonderland. Alice by Heart explores the poignancy of first love, coming to terms with loss, and finding the courage to move forward.
Rise Above Performing Arts Centre, 3501 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34239
Direct from Copenhagen, the acclaimed Danish Quartet makes its Sarasota debut performing Beethoven’s masterful String Quartet in B-flat major, Op. 130 as well as Beethoven’s Grosse Fuge, Op. 133.
Riverview Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL 34231
The world-renowned Ariel String Quartet returns with a program filled with music from their new albums of Beethoven Quartets as well as exhilarating works that highlight their virtuosity, probing musical insight, and impassioned, fiery performances.
Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center, 709 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
A gala performance by Summer Intensive dancers from around the world.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
There's much ado about something in this whip-smart, laugh-out-loud new romantic comedy from Lauren Gunderson. Lady Disdain is a fast-paced, razor-sharp riff on the deliciously dramatic world of Fantasy Romance novels (yes, those ones-you know them, you love them). Beatrice and Benedict, rival audiobook narrators with voices made for swooning and tempers made for sparring, are locked in a battle of wits, words, and wildly inconvenient attraction. Asolo Rep proudly presents this world premiere from one of America's most celebrated and funny playwrights.
Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
The sharp-witted, glamorous, incomparable Eartha Kitt commands the spotlight. But backstage in her dressing room, in the quiet between songs, she peels back the glitz to reveal Eartha Mae: a girl from the South Carolina cotton fields, orphaned by her mother until an audience adopted her. Told through both story and song, Urbanite Theatre’s first-ever musical production unearths the complex truth behind the icon.
Urbanite Theatre, 1487 2nd St, Sarasota, FL 34236
Matthew Aucoin’s “Music for New Bodies,” created in collaboration with acclaimed director Peter Sellars, is a bold operatic meditation on humanity’s shifting place in the natural world. Premiered in 2024, this one-act visionary operetta fuses the poetic texts of Jorie Graham with visceral soundscapes for five singers, an 18-piece chamber orchestra, lighting, and electronics. Aucoin crafts a work that is at once urgent and transcendent, while Sellars’ visionary staging brings the music into striking visual focus. Presented in a historic collaboration with Artist Series Concerts, this Sarasota premiere at the Sarasota Opera House invites audiences to imagine new forms of life, connection, and transformation.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Cask & Ale on Main Street lifts a toast & taps a toe to our fabulous Brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 - 3:00 with live Jazz during Sunday Brunch from Noon - 4:00. We offer a diverse chef-prepared menu with a full spread of Brunch delectables + our rotating Chef's Special menu, bottomless Mimosas and a wide selection of craft cocktails. Cask & Ale Liquor Locker owners enjoy the benefit of reservations for tables, holidays or special occasions! Continue the good vibes to make the most of your weekend. Voted Best Cocktails by SRQ Magazine!
Cask & Ale, 1548 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236
Every Wednesdat at 6 pm a 5k Fun Run starts and ends at 99 Bottles. Course runs through Downtown Sarasota and along the Bayfront, all skill levels, all fun. Each time you finish a run, you must get yout card punched to get an attendance credit and receive 99 bottles prizes. All runners are expected to obey all traffic laws, be courteous to other runners, pedestrians, cyclists, animals, etc.on the route and to know your limits - running and/or drinking!
99 Bottles, 1445 2nd St Sarasota, FL 34236
If you are oyster curious or just craving the fresh coastal seafood & hand-crafted cocktails from your new Rosemary District favorite, join us at Lefty's for our daily Happy Hours Monday - Friday from 4 pm - 6 pm and our Late Night Happy Hours every night from 9:00-Close. With seafood offerings from the Steamer and Buck-A-Shucks on oysters plus our extensive wine, specialty and seasonal cocktails and draft beers, Lefty's has your recipe to get happier and explore our menus. Join us every day for Lunch, Happy Hours or Dinner and for our downtown neighbors and Hospitality industry colleagues, we'll have live music and keep the light on for you on the weekends!
Lefty's Oyster and Seafood Bar, 428 N Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Join us every Sunday morning at 9am for a walk to the Bayfront and back on a route that is just under 2 miles. Meet at 99 Bottles Downtown Sarasota and end at the same location in approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on pace. This weekly walking social club is an opportunity to connect with other locals.
99 Bottles, 1445 2nd St Sarasota, FL 34236
SCFD is proud to welcome the community into the fire stations, continuing the tradition of open houses. These open houses are a wonderful opportunity for residents to engage directly with neighborhood firefighters. Visit our website to view the open house schedule.
Multiple Location, Multiple Locations
Toss some fun into your Thursday! Join us at Waterside Place for a fun morning of Casual Cornhole! Whether you’re a cornhole pro or a newbie, don’t miss this chance to show off your tossing skills and have a blast with friends! Grab a partner or go solo, we’ve got enough beanbags and boards to keep everyone entertained!
Waterside Place at Lakewood Ranch, 7500 Island Cove Terrace Lakewood Ranch , FL 34240
The Sarasota Farmers Market Vendors Incorporated (“SFMV”) has been established as a not for-profit organization under laws of the State of Florida, continuing the 40+ year tradition of enhancing and improving the quality of life in Sarasota. Our charitable mission is to create a social opportunity for residents and visitors to gather and interact, to bring foot traffic to downtown Sarasota sustaining the economic viability of the entire downtown area, and to provide a venue for other not-for-profit organizations benefiting Sarasota.
Sarasota Farmer's Market, N Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Award-winning Hermitage Fellows offer a unique glimpse into their creative process, sharing original works in process with our Gulf Coast audiences. These free hour-long programs take the shape of musical performances, playreadings, concerts, visual art demonstrations, panel discussions, master classes, exhibitions, open studios,and more. The presentations are often works in process, giving Hermitage audiences a look into the creative process before these works go on to leading theaters, concert halls, and museums around the world.
Hermitage Artist Retreat, 6660 Manasota Key Rd, Englewood, FL 34223
SRQ DAILY is a daily e-newsletter produced by SRQ MEDIA. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. 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. SRQ DAILY includes content excerpted from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Robinson Valverde at 941-365-7702 x703 or via email |
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