SRQ DAILY Nov 7, 2026
Saturday Perspectives Edition
"The need for connection and support is real."
While my grandfather was serving overseas in the Navy, he would write home to my grandmother, scribbling down his thoughts, sealing them up in an envelope and shipping them home, halfway around the world. I still have a handful of his letters, and I treasure them. They give me a glimpse into my grandparents’ lives and their relationship, the way my grandfather’s deep sense of duty and his appreciation for serving coexisted with his longing for the woman he loved.
My other grandfather also served in the military, as did my father. In fact, I was born on an Air Force base in Texas, and as I grew into adulthood, I was fortunate to hear stories from all of these remarkable men as I watched them build meaningful lives and careers.
Their example—of service, duty and patriotism—comes to mind every Veterans Day, but the holiday also reminds us to think about what support looks like after the uniform is put away, when a veteran is embarking on a new career, supporting a family or trying to feel at home again.
Our region is blessed to be home to a high number of veterans: There are nearly 71,000 living in Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto and Charlotte counties, and nearly 11 percent of them are women. These numbers represent neighbors, colleagues, parents and friends.
But our area is also home to an estimated 130 veterans experiencing homelessness, and we know that many others are struggling. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs reports that 6,488 veterans died by suicide in 2024—an average of 17.7 each day. More than 62 percent of those veterans had not received V.A. health care in the year they died or the year before. The need for connection and support is real.
Here at home, organizations are meeting veterans with care, expertise and persistence. Operation Warrior Resolution, a veteran-led nonprofit, works with veterans and their families on mental health, healing and the transition to civilian life. The Community Foundation of Sarasota County has supported its work in several ways, including a recent grant to the organization’s Tactical Workforce program, which offers trauma-informed workforce development to help veterans build sustainable careers and find purpose.
We also have a remarkable place in our community dedicated to remembering service. Patriot Plaza, the ceremonial amphitheater at Sarasota National Cemetery, was created through a $12 million investment by The Patterson Foundation in partnership with the federal government. The Community Foundation manages two endowments that help sustain the plaza: One supports maintenance and repairs, and the other funds educational and engagement opportunities, including student tours, transportation and trained guides.
And during this year’s 24-hour Giving Challenge, veteran-focused organizations raised $191,247. In Punta Gorda, the Military Heritage Museum partnered with nine other nonprofits and raised $57,250 for programming that brings military history to life.
Those local efforts matter at a time when support for veterans’ nonprofits can sometimes be an afterthought. A recent analysis from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy found that military and veterans’ organizations received 0.68 percent of all U.S. charitable giving in 2024. These organizations may be highly visible, but visibility does not always translate into broad or sustained support.
Veterans Day is an important day of recognition, but to honor veterans year-round, we must always remember to listen closely to hear their needs, and to give attention the nonprofits that stand beside them and their families.
Jessica Muroff is the President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. 
My eighth-grade science teacher always told us that science develops out of need. Many years later, I remember this. It gives me hope when I think about a challenge and the possibility of innovation.
Our local charitable sector feels a heavy weight in the air today with the very real possibility that potential changes in government funding will impact human need, parks, libraries, and essential services.
What are the conditions needed for people to have access to opportunity, to feel safe, and to receive help during times of challenge? These are the things most of us care about. These are also the things many nonprofits strive to create. What happens when there are reduced dollars for public benefit?
I join my colleagues at other foundations in being a passionate advocate for the difference philanthropy makes. I also believe philanthropy is not the answer for everything. There is not enough private giving to solve all challenges or to realize all opportunities, nor should the decisions about what matters be in the hands of a few. This is hardly my unique notion. But the message is important during this juncture. We are standing at the crossroads of need and opportunity.
Talking to nonprofit executives and board members about their strategies to prepare for potential changes, I hear a range of answers. Many spend intentional time together focused on the big possibilities because they stimulate meaningful and important scenario planning. Their insights and thoughtfulness are inspiring. Nonprofit organizations are adept at innovating, because they often have to do it.
I have seen transformative conversations come together just by having people in a room who listen to each other’s concerns. “People power” carried the ideas they discussed into action and innovation, but communities do need money for ideas to work. From paving a safe parking lot in a parenting education center to helping a student born into generational poverty attain a college degree without debt, everything costs something.
High prices for groceries, gas, and housing are mere conversation points and inconveniences for some people. For others, they mean cutting back until there is nothing left to cut, even while they work multiple jobs and their high school senior works 35 hours a week while attending classes.
Leading the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation, I experience the stewardship of our own board of directors in allocating dollars to make the most meaningful impact we can as we award grants and scholarships. Like all sources of funds, they are not exhaustive.
Knowing that capital items are often the hardest to raise money for, and knowing they will always be needed by nonprofits, the Selby Foundation will continue to make these investments. In recent years, organizations have made great strides in efficiency and program innovations with technology funds we have awarded. It’s worth stating definitively: critical programs and services are possible when they have the capital assets needed to power them. Funds are also needed for the people who do the essential work.
Going forward, our hypothesis is that embracing new ways of doing the work may be more necessary than ever to ensure that our community and the people in it are supported. Innovation and new ideas will develop, and they will be most useful when the conversations include the voices of people most impacted by changes. The Selby Foundation is proud to continue as just one participant in shaping the well-being of our communities in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties. We have a common responsibility to be well-informed, connected, and forward-thinking. Let’s all gather the tools we have to get started.
Susie Bowie is the President and CEO of The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation.
Pictured: The Selby Foundation funds vital capital improvements such as lighting for the Senior Friendship Center’s downtown Sarasota campus, ensuring that seniors can access education, health-affirming programs, and vital social connections. Provided p
Our Arts in Education Celebration is happening Nov. 7 at the Sarasota Art Museum Ringling College of Art + Design, our partner, and is presented with Sarasota County Schools. I’ve been a longtime supporter of arts in the education space, and care about students having access to the arts. It’s also really incredible that we’re hosting it in a building that’s significant.
Before it was an art museum, it was Sarasota High School. Generations of local kids walked those halls, sat in those classrooms and figured out who they were going to be. Now that same building is where we’ll celebrate the talented students of Sarasota County Schools. We couldn’t have planned better symbolism if we tried. For a community’s identity to be rooted in the arts, it’s fitting to have an event celebrating arts education in a building dedicated to arts, that used to be a school and is still deeply partnered with education.
That’s what living on Florida’s Cultural Coast® looks like. The arts don’t happen next to our schools here. They’ve woven into them, and that’s a big part of what makes Sarasota County Schools so strong.
Here’s something that might surprise you. Ninety-two percent of Americans believe every student should have access to a quality arts education. But only 52% believe students actually have enough chances to take arts classes. That’s a 40-point gap between what we say we value and what we think kids are getting.
Schools see the same gap. In a recent national survey, 81% of public schools said students had plenty of interest in the arts. Only 64% said they had enough funding to teach them. The kids want it. The resources just aren’t keeping up.
I’ll say what I always say. We don’t put the arts in schools to create more artists. (Although we’ll happily take a few.) We do it to build a creative workforce. Leadership, collaboration, communication, the ability to connect with another person. People often call those soft skills. I don’t love that term, because there’s nothing soft about them. They’re the skills that show up in every job interview and every team meeting for the rest of a student’s life.
The author Daniel Pink made a point years ago that has stuck with me. America was never going to win on sheer size. Other countries have far bigger populations. Our edge has always been innovation and creativity. And as AI takes over more of the routine work, the people who can imagine, adapt and create are only going to be worth more.
The research backs this up. A study of more than 10,000 students across 42 schools found that more access to arts education led to fewer disciplinary problems, stronger writing and more empathy. Think about that list for a minute. It isn’t just better art. It’s better behavior, better academics and kids who understand each other a little better. Another study followed students from low-income families. Those deeply involved in the arts had a 4% dropout rate. Those with little arts involvement had a 22% dropout rate. Sometimes the band room or the theater is the reason a kid shows up (to school) at all.
Arts in Education is also important to our members, and they have programs and opportunities for students to explore arts. So, while we’re excited to share what students are up to in the schools, we’re also excited for the work done within our member organizations, too.
So come see it for yourself. The celebration runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7, and it’s free and open to the community. It’s an open house, so drop in whenever it works for your family. You’ll hear everything from the Southside Elementary Jazz Band to a Celebration Choir with students from seven elementary schools. While you’re there, you can meet organizations like The Sarasota Ballet, Sarasota Opera, and the Florida Studio Theatre. Details and schedule are at sarasotaarts.org/arts-in-education-celebration.
A building that once held a high school now holds art. On Nov. 7, it holds both.
Brian Hersh is the CEO of the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County. To learn more, visit sarasotaarts.org
Photo credit: Ashton Elementary School
Enjoy a delicious brunch offered every Sunday at Tripletail Seafood and Spirits on the beautiful covered patio or casual dining room. The menu features a variety of dishes created by Chef Cesareo Cardenas, including his decadent creme brulee French toast, steak and eggs, lobster benedict, crab and shrimp omelet and the Tripletail brunch burger. Guests will receive a complimentary Bloody Mary or mimosa with the purchase of any entree.
Tripletail Seafood and Spirits, 4870 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
A pioneering artist, world traveler and champion of women in the arts, Yoshida Fujio was one of the first Japanese women to receive formal training in Western-style painting and build an international career. Yoshida Fujio: Secret Gardens is the first exhibition in the southeastern United States devoted to this remarkable artist. It brings together a selection of woodblock prints and one painting spanning key moments in Fujio's long career, from her early naturalistic works to the striking abstractions of her later decades.
The Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota
Opening the fall 2026–spring 2027 season at SPAACES, this exhibit showcases artists who work outside the public eye. Curator Yosnier Miranda brings together artists who maintain dedicated, disciplined studio practices while choosing not to exhibit their work publicly. Bedroom Communities offers a rare opportunity to encounter work that has largely remained unseen despite years of thoughtful and passionate creation.
SPAACES, 2051 Princeton St., Sarasota
Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fable, this fairy tale opera follows two siblings who encounter a beguiling Gingerbread Witch. This opera displays a timeless reflection on innocence, resourcefulness and the power of family. Hansel and Gretel is presented in three acts and includes music by Engelbert Humperdinck and words by Adelheid Wette. Tickets go on sale online on August 1 and at the box office on September 1.
Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
The Sarasota Youth Opera presents a whimsical journey of imagination, family and self-discovery this November. With music and text by Rachel J. Peters, Rootabaga Country follows Gimme the Ax and his children as they journey through the imaginative landscape of Rootabaga Country to learn more about the mother they never knew. Along this way, they discover that love and belonging come in many forms. Tickets go on sale online August 1.
Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
Celebrate 10 years of making a difference for homeless animals at the sixth annual Friends of Manatee County Animal Welfare Friendsgiving. Enjoy an exciting live auction, silent auction and live music while helping raise critical funds to support this organization's life-saving programs. Every dollar raised helps provide specialized medical care, heartworm treatment, enrichment and second chances for animals in need.
The Pavilion at Mixon Fruit Farms, 2525 27th St. E, Bradenton
Learn about Sarasota history with guide John McCarthy on this relaxing cruise to learn illuminating facts about the region. This event is a major fundraiser that helps with the restoration and preservation of the Crocker Memorial Church and the Bidwell-Wood House. Enjoy snacks and a cash bar on board the LeBarge. Reserve tickets soon because seating is limited. Meet at Bayfront Park on the lawn in front of LeBarge at 10:30am to receive your name badge, which serves as your entry ticket.
Bayfront Park, 5 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota
Celebrating 20 years, Bowls of Hope attendees select offerings from dozens of the community's finest restaurants and caterers as they serve delicious soups, bread, desserts and more. Guests choose from beautiful, handcrafted bowls–all donated by local potters, artists and students–to keep, while enjoying a modest meal as a reminder of the empty bowls they help to fill. This year's event is chaired by Ruth Hochman. Individual tickets go on sale October 1.
Ed Smith Stadium, 2700 12th St., Sarasota
The annual Living Arts Festival showcases diverse art forms in Sarasota through performances, visual art, family events and live music. Throughout Bradenton, Sarasota and Venice, see the Sarasota Orchestra, Artists on Art: Photography, Rising Stars Talent Show, Creative Liberties Galleries, Perlman Music Program, Jazz Club of Sarasota and more. This is your opportunity to join the community in shared experiences, strengthening the connections that make the Cultural Coast a wonderful place to live, work and visit.
Olympic Medalist Nancy Kerrigan joins Our Mother's House for An Afternoon with a Champion, celebrating resilience, determination and the power of community. Nancy's journey from a hardworking family to the Olympic stage was shaped not only by determination but by the sacrifices and support of those around her. During the luncheon, she will share her personal story of perseverance and overcoming adversity, offering an inspiring perspective on resilience and finding the strength to keep moving forward.
Michael's On East, 1212 S East Ave., Sarasota
Join Sarasota artist Jing Herman for an interview on her American flag artworks in The Beautiful Country at the lobby of One Sarasota Tower. Herman's artwork, Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness, which resides in the White House Historical Association's permanent collection, will be represented by a full-size fine art reproduction on view at the event and through the end of the year. This in-person exhibit and artist interview is designed for professionals, community leaders and art and history lovers. A light lunch will be served, and parking is available at Palm Avenue Parking Garage.
One Sarasota Tower, 2 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Sarasota brings one of the most influential trailblazers to the city for a powerful series of experiences designed to inspire courage, character and civic engagement among youth and throughout the community. Local students will walk together in honor of Ruby's historic steps. A community town hall conversation, moderated by Charlayne Hunter-Gault, will reflect on Ms. Bridges' defining place in our nation's story and the enduring power of civic engagement, community dialogue and collective action.
Booker Visual and Performing Arts Center, 3201 N Orange Ave., Sarasota
Join climate leaders, researchers, community partners, business professionals and students for the 6th Annual CAC Florida Climate Conference: From Climate Risk to Climate Resilience. Experience a full day of inspiring presentations, engaging discussions and networking with the exciting vision of the Living Laboratory for Coastal Resilience. This collaborative initiative brings together science, technology, education and community partnerships to build a stronger Suncoast. For an early bird bonus, register by August 15 to enjoy a complimentary catered lunch.
Selby Auditorium at the USF Sarasota-Manatee Campus, 8350 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Florida Gulf Coast Chapter is proud to announce the upcoming Sarasota Design Conference, scheduled for November 12–14, 2026. This year’s highly anticipated event will take place at the iconic St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Sarasota, a mid-century masterpiece designed by legendary architect Victor Lundy. For the first time, this event will be held in conjunction with Architecture Sarasota, an organization dedicated to the stewardship of the globally renowned Sarasota School of Architecture. The conference coincides with the 13th annual Sarasota MOD Weekend and conference attendees will receive a discounted rate for tickets.
St. Paul Lutheran Church, 2256 Bahia Vista St, Sarasota
In this Joyful Journeys Author Series, learn how the Sarasota Audubon Society is dedicated to the protection, conservation and enjoyment of birds, wildlife and the environment. Discover the significant history of this organization and recognize the many volunteers who have dedicated a substantial amount of their time and effort in service. Their persistent efforts to preserve the Celery fields as a prime birding location have resulted in the area designated as part of the extensive Great Florida Birding Trail.
Senior Friendship Centers, 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota
Celebrating its third year, this two-day alfresco event features an exclusive five-course wine dinner on Friday, November 13 and an introductory wine tasting class and the promenade Grand Tasting along Wellen Park Boulevard on Saturday, November 14. Guests can also enjoy live contemporary jazz music, shopping and small bites from Acqua Pazza Coastal Italian, Agave Bandido, The Banyan House, La Maison and more. Aside from admission, a general admission ticket includes a commemorative wine glass, a signature event tote, unlimited wine tastings and four food tasting tickets to redeem at participating restaurant tents.
Solis Hall, 19745 Wellen Pk Blvd, Venice
Since 2010, this four-day event has brought together talented master sand sculptors from around the world to transform Siesta's famous sand into stunning, large-scale works of art. Visitors can enjoy live music, local food and drink, shopping, sand sculpting demonstrations and family-friendly activities–all set against the backdrop of one of America's top-ranked beaches. Whether you're an art lover, beachgoer or local supporter, the Crystal Classic offers a truly unique experience that inspires creativity and brings the community together year after year.
Siesta Key Beach, 948 Beach Rd., Sarasota
Presented by Key Chorale, the Chamber Singers invite you into a world of beauty, reflection and wonder at this candlelit choral experience. The choir is joined by renowned organist Jeremy Filsell, violinist Jeff Thurston and cellist Susan Dobronsky. Here contemplative and sacred selections by Faure, Paulus, Gjeilo and Esenvalds at this evening of serenity and inspiration.
Christ Episcopal Church, Bradenton, 4030 Manatee Ave. W, Bradenton
Kick off the holidays with a merry celebration along N. Cattlemen Rd. that features giant balloons, fantastical floats, marching bands, dance troupes and a special appearance by the one-and-only Santa Claus. The excitement continues with thrilling FMX stunts by Nik Wallenda's Wonderland Circus, the lighting of UTC's 50-foot holiday tree, dazzling fireworks and an after-party concert. Visit the kids zone for games and crafts from 3-5pm, and pre-party entertainment begins at 4:15pm.
UTC District, N. Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota
At the Living Arts Festival's opening party, expect color, connections and surprises around every corner. It's the perfect way to kick off a week of art, music, dance and theatre. Experience live performances, singing, dancing and visual art, plus a first look at everything during festival week.
Art Ovation Hotel, 1255 N Palm Ave., Sarasota
Visit the beautiful Phillippi Estate for Friends of the Sarasota County History Center's third annual picnic fundraiser. Enjoy a variety of offerings from food trucks and listen to Paisley Craze Band perform rockadelic 60s hits. Advance reservations open September 14.
Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
This competition will showcase the best in music, art, theatre, dance and acrobatics. The energy is electric, the talent is real and the winners take home cash prizes. Join the excitement as a panel of celebrity judges chooses the champion. Awards and prizes are presented at the end of the competition.
Pine Shores Presbyterian Church, 6116 Crestwood Ave., Sarasota
This program features your favorite instruments in new and interesting combinations. Arnold Bax's Quintet for Harp and Strings is dreamy and impressionistic. Florence Price's Octet for Brasses and Piano is a melodious work that shows off the brass's lyrical sides. LIgNEouS features solo marimba and string quartet. Finally, Gounod's Petite Symphonie combines winds and horns in a charming work.
Holley Hall, 709 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
This family-friendly event features local music, dance, theatre and arts groups performing all day. Kids can jump into hands-on art and theatre workshops for budding creatives of all ages, while food trucks keep everyone fueled. Bring the whole family and let your little ones discover what they love.
Civic Green, adjacent to the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Bring your pets in for photos with Santa and the Grinch on November 15 and 22, with no appointment needed. All proceeds benefit Farmhouse Animal and Nature Sanctuary. The sanctuary's mission is to offer continued care for the animals, giving them a place to feel safe, find forever homes for adoptable pets and to teach a new generation the joy of caring for animals through their Critter Connection Animal Outreach Bus program.
Leo and Lucky's, 8943 US Highway 301 N, Parrish
This kaleidoscopic closing performance wraps up the 2026 Living Arts Festival with a world of entertainment. You'll experience the sights and sounds of your favorite area performers, plus surprise appearances. Sit on the edge of your seat to hear awards including Best of the Festival, Small But Mighty and Creativity At Its Finest. Highlights include the 2nd annual presentation of the Teacher Tribute Awards to two area art teachers who inspire and motivate youth in music, art, theatre and dance.
Sarasota Art Museum, 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
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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