SRQ DAILY Jul 15, 2026
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"It is all about using our platform to make a positive impact and support causes that matter both inside our four walls and in our communities."
Restaurateurs Amanda and John Horne, owners of Oysters Rock Hospitality, have earned a reputation in the local hospitality industry for excellence, friendly service and a strong commitment to giving back. Through Shuckin’ Good Cause, the philanthropic arm of Oysters Rock Hospitality, the couple provides financial assistance and support to community members and employees facing hardships or emergencies.
“Shuckin’ Good Cause is our way of giving back while celebrating our love for seafood,” says John. “It is all about using our platform to make a positive impact and support causes that matter both inside our four walls and in our communities."
This year, Shuckin’ Good Cause and Oysters Rock Hospitality celebrated the successful completion of the 10th summer of Dive Into Reading, a literacy and mentorship program designed to help elementary students strengthen reading skills, build confidence and combat summer learning loss. By providing books, educational resources and mentorship throughout Manatee and Sarasota counties, the program helps improve literacy while encouraging a lifelong love of reading.
During its 10th summer, Dive Into Reading welcomed 373 students who gathered each morning with volunteer mentors, educators, restaurant teams and community partners for breakfast, books and encouragement. Since its launch, the program has expanded to 17 Title I elementary schools and six host locations, serving more than 3,000 students. This year, every participant also received a backpack filled with school supplies to help start the new school year prepared for success.
“At Oysters Rock Hospitality, we believe that businesses have a responsibility to give back to the communities they serve,” says John. “This is our way of living out that belief and making a positive impact, one shuck at a time.”
To learn more about Dive Into Reading or become a volunteer mentor, visit OysterBar.net/reading. 
Pictured: John and Amanda Horne. Photo by Wyatt Kostygan.
The Patterson Foundation has contributed $250,000 to the Center for Disaster Philanthropy’s (CDP) Global Recovery Fund to strengthen medium- and long-term recovery efforts following the devastating twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela in June. The earthquakes have triggered widespread destruction across La Guaira, Caracas and surrounding communities, destroying tens of thousands of buildings, displacing thousands of residents and claiming more than 3,500 lives as of July 6. The Fund focuses exclusively on addressing medium- and long-term needs following international disasters, ensuring communities receive support throughout the recovery process rather than only during the immediate aftermath.CDP connects donors with insights, information and expertise, including those from frontline organizations, to increase donors’ impact before and after domestic and international disasters. Since 2013, The Patterson Foundation has contributed more than $8 million to CDP to strengthen disaster philanthropy and support recovery efforts following disasters and humanitarian crises worldwide.
Turning Points is pleased to announce the appointment of Christopher Kelly as Treasurer of its Board of Directors, bringing extensive financial leadership and strategic expertise to support the organization's continued growth and long-term sustainability. Visit tpmanatee.org to learn more.
After twelve years of empowering women, supporting local nonprofits, and creating meaningful change throughout the community, The Lake Club Women’s Giving Circle proudly announces its transition to The Lake Club Women’s Charitable Foundation following receipt of its independent 501(c)(3) charitable designation from the Internal Revenue Service. For more information about The Lake Club Women’s Charitable Foundation, its mission, community impact, volunteer opportunities, and upcoming events and partnership opportunities please visit the Foundation’s website at www.tlcwcf.org or email info@tlcwcf.org.
Members of Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties’ Louis and Gloria Flanzer Club in Arcadia recently traveled to Houston, Texas, for a unique experience at the VIRTEX Symposium, a national program that connects Boys & Girls Club members with scientists and researchers to inspire curiosity and explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). To learn more about the impact of Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties, visit bgcsdc.org.
After six years of service, Executive Director Alisa Mitchell has announced she will be leaving the Library Foundation for Sarasota County on Sept. 1 to pursue a new professional chapter. Mitchell, whose leadership has helped strengthen the organization, expand its impact and position it for a successful future, is working closely with the board to ensure a smooth transition. To learn more about the Library Foundation for Sarasota County and how you can support its mission, please visit SarasotaLibraryFoundation.org or call 941-404-3139.
Throughout June, Neal Land & Neighborhoods united North River Ranch residents, builder partners, and local businesses for its fifth annual food drive benefiting Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee. Together, they collected 2,376 lbs. of non-perishable food to help local families experiencing food insecurity during the summer months. The donation will provide meals to more than 700 local families, including children who lose access to school lunches during summer break. This year’s generous contributors included RIPA Construction, Baldwin Insurance, Driggers Engineering, Cardel Homes, Sign Pro Studios, David Weekley Homes, Derr Corporation, Clean Sweep, Advanced Aquatics, Neal Land & Neighborhoods and Neal Communities team members, and North River Ranch residents. To learn more about the award-winning master-planned community North River Ranch, visit www.northriverranch.com. To learn more about Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee or to get involved, visit www.mealsonwheelsplus.org.
Foya is a mother of three, working full-time, and closing in on her nursing degree. She's exactly the kind of person the American Dream is supposed to work for: employed, driven, playing by the rules. And yet, like nearly half of her neighbors in Sarasota and Manatee counties, she's been caught in a gap where a paycheck isn't enough to cover the true cost of living. "This scholarship will ease the financial burden of continuing my education and help me stay focused on finishing strong," Foya said. "Your generosity is not only helping me reach my dream of becoming a registered nurse, but it is also making a lasting difference in my family's future and in the lives of the patients I will one day serve." Foya is one of 106 women who received a share of $132,500 in scholarships this year from the Women's Resource Center (WRC). Many of the 106 recipients, the largest scholarship class in the program's history, were celebrated during the organization's annual Supported Scholar Luncheon on March 24.
Pictured: Womens Resource Center scholarship recipients Trayonna Killings (left) and Shatoya Esaw were among the 106 women awarded scholarships through the organizations record-setting 2026 scholarship program.. Provided photo.
Senior Friendship Centers recently recognized members of its Legacy Society during its annual Legacy Luncheon on June 23 at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. The event drew 131 attendees and celebrated individuals who have made a lasting commitment to the organization's future through planned gifts. For more information about Senior Friendship Centers, call 941-955-2122 or www.friendshipcenters.org.
Pictured: Vindray Dudley, ambassador relations assistant for the Venice Friendship Center, attends Senior Friendship Centers annual Legacy Luncheon. Provided photo.
Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation has announced its Board Officers for the 2026-2027 fiscal year following unanimous approval by its Board of Directors during the Foundation's annual meeting held on June 25, 2026. Dr. Jenne K. Britell and Drayton Saunders will continue serving as Co-Chairs of the Board, helping guide the Foundation as it advances its mission to expand access to arts education, enrich communities, and steward the planning and fundraising efforts for a new Sarasota Performing Arts Center. Also re-elected are Vice Chair Nanci Weaver, Treasurer Gerald L. Biller, and Secretary Julie Harris.
This summer, Selby Gardens is excited to present an indoor and outdoor exhibition featuring the work of legendary American photographer, Lynn Goldsmith, who is renowned for both her celebrity portraits and fine art images. Goldsmith’s exhibition at the Downtown Sarasota campus will combine stunning images of flowers with intimate portraits of Selby Gardens’ artist in residence – Patti Smith. Visit selby.org for tickets.
Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound St, Sarasota
Get ready to move this summer with Sarasota Contemporary Dance and guest teachers in sunny Sarasota for a week-long dance intensive, unlike any other! You have three weeks to choose from-or do all three!
Sarasota Contemporary Dance, 1400 Boulevard of the Arts Suite 300, Sarasota, FL 34236
Delightfully Funky Since 1997, Blase Martini Bar in Siesta Key Village has been Sarasota’s cozy, funky go-to for inventive food, handcrafted martinis, and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. It’s perfect for date nights or casual hangouts—offering bold flavors, expertly mixed drinks, and a setting that feels both relaxed and refreshingly unique. Join us for the launch of our Summer Pizza & Martini Menu, featuring hand-tossed specialty Pizzas, Pineapple Upside Down Vodka Martini for June, Siesta Suns Orange Vodka in July & Just Peachy Vodka Martini in August.
Blase Martini Bar in Siesta Key Village, 5263 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key
The exhibition at Selby Gardens’ Historic Spanish Point campus celebrates childhood and the imagination of youth through the words and images of A Child’s Garden of Verses, the beloved book of poetry for children by the celebrated Scottish writer, Robert Louis Stevenson. The exhibition features photographs of pages from a vintage edition of the book, combining Stevenson’s poetry with illustrations by the notable American artist, Alexander Dobkin. Accompanying the photographs are simple interactives that draw their inspiration from Stevenson’s poems and enhance the visitor experience. Audio recordings enable visitors to hear the poems read by Selby Gardens’ Artist-in-Residence, Patti Smith. Visit selby.org for tickets.
Downtown Sarasota Campus, 401 N Tamiami Trail, Osprey
ArtCenter Sarasota continues its Centennial Season with Medium Mutiny, a juried exhibition selected by Ed Swan Jr. that celebrates boundary-pushing works challenging tradition through bold experimentation in form, material, and concept. Solo exhibitions include Living by the Water by Cat Tesla, whose serene, abstract paintings reflect a journey of healing and transformation inspired by Florida's landscapes. A new body of work by Anja Palombo, blending her deep love of nature and art history into expressive visual narratives. In Architect as Artist, co-curated by Morris Hylton III, Sarasota-based architects including Carl Abbott, Jerry Sparkman, and Javi Suárez present multidisciplinary works that blur the line between design and fine art.
ArtCenter Sarasota, 707 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Maria A. Guzman Capron explores the complexities of identity through vibrant figurative textiles. Drawing inspiration from her own multicultural heritage, the artist creates layered portraits of exuberant, multi-faceted characters.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
Featuring works by such acclaimed modern and contemporary artists as Louise Bourgeois, Chuck Close, Yoko Ono, David Hockney, Ai Weiwei, and more, this never-before-seen exhibition offers a rare glimpse into private collections held throughout Southwest Florida.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
Young athletes can stay active and engaged this summer at Amazing Athletes Summer Camp. Designed to combine fun, fitness, and skill development, the camp introduces children to a variety of sports through exciting games, drills, and team activities. Participants will have the opportunity to build confidence, improve coordination, and learn valuable lessons about teamwork and sportsmanship in a positive and encouraging setting. Led by experienced instructors, this high-energy camp provides a memorable experience that keeps kids moving, learning, and making new friends all week long.
Bob Gardner Park, 2710 White Eagle Blvd, Bradenton
Intensive B will focus on a variety of Jazz classes. Participants will experience influences from Fosse, Broadway, Afro-Fusion, to Commercial Jazz!
Sarasota Contemporary Dance, 1400 Blvd of the Arts Ste 300, Sarasota
This summer's children's musical at Asolo Repertory Theatre will take you on a trip down the Yellow Brick Road. Adventure awaits at this family-friendly production at the Cook Theatre. The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition is directed and choreographed by Cat Brindisi and is under the music direction of Carl Haan. Join Dorothy, Toto and friends from Oz as they embark on a musical journey to find their way home.
Asolo Repertory Theatre, 555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Skip the intimidation and discover wine the way it’s meant to be enjoyed—relaxed, social, and a little indulgent. Sommer School s is designed for those who want to learn the basics without the pressure, guided by our very own Jason Waganheim, in a lively, welcoming setting. You’ll taste a curated selection of wines, explore what makes each one unique, and pick up simple techniques to help you order, pair, and enjoy wine with confidence. No prior knowledge required—just bring your curiosity. This three part series begins July 8,2026 and meets the two consecutive Wednesdays.
State Street Eating House, 1533 State St, Sarasota
At the Court Cabaret, Nancy Allen presents a powerful tribute to era-defining artists in the 1970s, featuring hits from Joni Mitchell, Carole King, Stevie Nicks, Linda Ronstadt and more. A singer trio of Victoria Boland, Samantha Duval and Madalyn McHugh deliver powerhouse vocals that capture the soul and strength of the female artists who wrote their own rules. This show is part of a three-show Summer Cabaret subscription that also includes Leaving on a Jet Plane: A Folk Journey and Legacy: Motown and More!
Florida Studio Theatre, 1265 First St., Sarasota
Start studying for Gecko's Grill and Pub's 24th Annual Summer Trivia Tournament. This six-week competition features weekly trivia nights on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays at participating Gecko's locations throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties. Teams can enjoy food and drink specials while competing for a share of $1,000 in Gecko's Bucks. The three teams with the highest cumulative scores are invited to the championship tournament, which is scheduled for Gecko's on Clark Road on August 17.
Gecko's Grill and Pub, All Gecko's Grill and Pub locations
Come one, come all to the circus this summer at The Circus Arts Conservatory in Sarasota. Kids ages 6 to 15 are invited to learn circus skills and make new friends with attendees from all over the country. Try the trapeze, rolling globe, aerials, juggling and more. Each Friday, friends and families are invited to a costumed showcase performance where campers share the skills they developed throughout the week. Pre-registration is required, and walk-ins are not accepted.
Sailor Circus Arena, 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota
Curious about the Mediterranean Way of Eating? Join us for Cooking Up Health: The Mediterranean Way, an engaging, educational series that will transform your approach to food! Discover seven simple steps to healthier meals, learn easy recipes, and pick up practical tips that fit right into your everyday life. Registration includes a recipe book. 6-Week Program, Mondays: 7/27, 8/3, 8/10, 8/17, 8/24, and 8/31 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm. This class will be virtual and will have a cost of $10 per person. Zoom link for the class will be emailed to participants before the start of class.
Virtual, Virtual
Participate in the third annual Farmhouse Scramble golf tournament to benefit all furry, feathered and shelled animals at Farmhouse Animal and Nature Sanctuary. With an 8am shotgun start, this 18-hole course builds community spirit and camaraderie throughout the day. Enjoy contests, games, raffles and prizes, as well as complimentary practice balls on the driving range. A light continental breakfast, indoor salad bar and deli lunch buffet are provided.
Tara Golf and Country Club, 6602 Drewrys Bluff, Bradenton
Play for a cause this September in support of the Venice YMCA with this charity golf classic. Golfers of all skill levels are invited to tee off with a shot gun start at 8:30am, with lunch to follow. Build community and camaraderie with fun games and prizes throughout the day. Proceeds support children, families and individuals in the Venice community.
Plantation Golf and Country Club, 500 Rockley Blvd, Venice
Don't miss William Shakespeare's timeless comedy of love, identity and finding yourself in unexpected places. The play delivers one of The Bard's most hopeful messages: people can change, grow and discover who they truly are. Experience wit, romance and how theatre can be a place where humanity explores itself.
The Crossings at Siesta Key, 3501 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
During the 25th Anniversary of 9/11, Lakewood Ranch Community Activities invites the community to this commemoration at the pavilion at Greenbrook Adventure Park. The event will honor the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and will pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the first responders and everyday heroes who answered the call. Nominations are encouraged for residents who served in response to the 9/11 events, including firefighters, law enforcement officers, medical professionals, military members and others.
Greenbrook Adventure Park, 13010 Adventure Pl, Bradenton
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