SRQ DAILY Nov 14, 2026
Saturday Perspectives Edition
"This Thanksgiving, turn your chair toward the window. "
The impact of generosity is all around us, often in ways we may not see until we pause to give thanks. I am grateful to the donors, volunteers, and nonprofit professionals who make so much of what we love about this community possible. Their commitment deserves our thanks all year long.
This season, with Florida voters approving Amendment 3, many of our nonprofit partners that rely on local government support are already planning for leaner years ahead. At Manatee Community Foundation, helping nonprofits stay steady through change is at the heart of our work, and moments like this show why lasting support matters.
I saw that truth come to life at our recent Legacy Society celebration. As I greeted guests, many said the same thing: “The room is different. It’s flipped.” They were right. If you joined us last year, you may remember the view of the bay behind us. This year, every guest faced the windows, looking out over our little slice of paradise.
Then our keynote speaker, Ashley Dietz, President and CEO of the Florida Philanthropic Network, shared the story of her family’s philanthropy. She spoke of the impact her parents made together, her mother’s own giving journey, and how that example became her legacy for her own family.
Ashley’s message was simple and powerful: remembering where you came from and investing in every community you are part of are not separate things. They are woven together.
As I listened, I realized the flipped room was not simply a design choice. It was meant to be. Right outside those windows was everything we are here to protect and preserve: the land and the water, the blue skies, and all the magical creatures who make their home here. It was there for every young learner on the way to school, and for every parent and guardian heading to work to provide for their family. It was there, too, for the neighbor walking through a difficult season, who needs to know caring support is close at hand. There it was, in all its glory, even on the hard days.
Everything we love about this place is here because someone before us cared enough to look after it.
The donors and families in that room have included Manatee Community Foundation in their estate plans, creating lasting support for the organizations and causes they love. They are helping people they may never meet, trusting that others will be here to put their gifts to work. I am grateful we can thank them while they are here to hear it.
A legacy gift can itself be a way of saying thank you. Perhaps an organization helped your family, or you have spent years volunteering alongside its staff. Including it in your plans honors its role in your life and helps someone else benefit in the future.
And an endowed fund can make that generosity last. MCF invests each gift and makes a distribution every year to the organizations or causes the donor has chosen. In uncertain times, that dependable support helps nonprofit leaders plan with confidence.
Which organizations are you most thankful to have in our community? Consider why they matter to you. Then share those reasons with your family. They may know where you volunteer, but they may not know why you have stayed. Telling them helps them understand what you hope your generosity will make possible.
This Thanksgiving, turn your chair toward the window. Begin with what you are grateful for in our community and then consider how you might help keep it strong, beautiful, and caring for the next generation.
Provided photo.
New College of Florida is experiencing unstoppable momentum. In Niche’s 2027 college rankings, New College earned the title of the #1 Best Liberal Arts College in Florida, marking a historic high for our institution.
This ranking cycle brings record-breaking standings across both Niche and Forbes, proving that New College’s bold, unapologetic return to rigorous, individualized academic excellence is delivering tangible results.
In the 2027 Niche Best Colleges report, the college climbed to the top spot for liberal arts in our state while maintaining a B+ overall grade, a standing held consistently for six years. This surge is driven by elite academic performance, with New College securing an 'A' grade for Academics, a factor that accounts for 35% of the total ranking score. The college also earned an 'A' grade for Diversity and Professors.
As President Richard Corcoran noted: “We do not chase rankings; we chase excellence. We ask our students to defend their ideas, conduct original research, and master the art of critical thinking. These historic rankings from Niche and Forbes are simply a byproduct of an institution that has reclaimed its mission and demands the absolute best from its students and faculty.”
2027 Niche Ranking Highlights:
- ● #1 Best Liberal Arts College in Florida (A historic high).
- ● #3 Best Small Colleges in Florida.
- ● #9 Top Public Universities in Florida.
- ● #12 Best Colleges in Florida.
- ● #59 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in America.
- ● Grade A for Academics.
- ● Grade A for Diversity.
- 2027 Forbes Ranking Highlights:
- ● #80 Best Colleges in the South.
- ● #82 Best Public Colleges in the U.S. (A historic high).
The 2027 Niche methodology updates directly reflect the unique value proposition of New College. This year, Niche introduced an "Institutional Success Score" (5% of the ranking) to assess each college on its own terms and credit schools that excel at their own mission. By assessing colleges against peers with a similar mission, the ranking better recognizes strong institutions that break the traditional, exclusive mold.
With its groundbreaking academic contracts, rigorous senior thesis requirements, and elite faculty, New College of Florida continues to define what an exceptional, future-proof liberal arts education looks like.
Ron Christaldi is the Chair of the Board of Trustees of New College of Florida.
Pictured: New College of Florida, located on Sarasota Bay, is the state's designated public honors college. Provided photo.
Set sail with the smooth sounds of the '70s and '80s in this feel-good celebration of Yacht Rock and beyond. Featuring favorites like Sailing, Margaritaville, Brandy, Escape (The Piña Colada Song), Arthur's Theme and more, this breezy musical revue charts a course through the songs that became the soundtrack to romance, adventure, heartbreak and endless summer nights. Written by Richard Hopkins and Rebecca Hopkins; directed by Catherine Randazzo; music arrangements by Jim Prosser.
Court Cabaret, 1265 1st St., Sarasota
Hear Duke Ellington's music as you've never heard it before with this Tony Award-winning theatrical journey. Directed by Jim Weaver, Sophisticated Ladies shares elegant and timeless hits including It Don't Mean A Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing and Don't Get Around Much Anymore. Every song tells its own story of the romance, humor and refined style of the time. Performances are offered at 2:00pm and 7:30pm.
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N Orange Ave., 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
Laurie Maves has spent more than three decades exploring the emotional language of shape, color and abstraction. Inspired by coastal landscapes, travel and the natural world, she creates richly layered works where the quiet geometry of nature, repeated forms, color and gesture invite moments of reflection and calm. A reception for Shapes of Resonance will be held on November 12, and a meet-and-greet is scheduled for December 10.
Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center, 709 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Delight in thrilling tournaments, delicious feasts and exciting games at the 22nd Annual Sarasota Medieval Fair. On Saturdays and Sundays, travel back in time to The Siege of Paris in 845 A.D. through plays and shows about the people who shaped this time period. Kids can participate in crafts, storytime and dress-up while adults embark on a pub crawl or attend the Masquerade of Mordred Pendragon. An artisan marketplace will showcase over 140 vendors. Act fast, because ticket sales end on June 24.
Mallaranny Farms, 29847 FL-70, Myakka City
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
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.
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
This family-friendly celebration will spotlight young entrepreneurs alongside Black art, music, dance and soul food. Participating young business owners include Genesis Williams of Little Genny's Italian Ice, Zahi' Jennings of Jass Lemonade, Kay Gallego of Kay's Sweet Empire and more. The event gives young people a chance to introduce their ventures to neighbors, engage potential customers and see the wider community celebrate their ambitions.
The Historic Leonard Reid House, 2529 N Orange Ave., Sarasota
At this customer appreciation event, longtime customers and first-time visitors are invited to enjoy complimentary food and refreshments, appreciation gifts and exclusive showroom offers. The afternoon will also feature hourly raffles for Berlin Gardens chairs.
DutchCrafters Amish Furniture Showroom, 3709 N Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota
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
Residents and visitors are invited to join the Walk to End Alzheimer's Sarasota County. Registration begins at 8am, followed by the flower ceremony at 8:45am before the walk commences at 9am. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, with each color representing their personal connection to the disease.
Nathan Benderson Park-Regatta Island, 5851 Nathan Benderson Park Cir, 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
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
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of CycleFest at Lakewood Ranch Main Street. This annual event features scenic, custom-designed routes through Sarasota and Manatee Counties, with 20-, 35- and 66-mile options for riders of varying experience levels. Participants can enjoy a light breakfast, rest stops and a post-ride lunch while supporting local bicycle charities. The celebration also includes a special $2,500 Ryder Bikes gift certificate drawing and a Goodwill donation drive.
Main Street at Lakewood Ranch, 8100 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton
The Sarasota Speaker Series presents Building an Unconventional Business, bringing together three local leaders at distinctly different stages of the journey: from a rapidly expanding young brand, to an established company navigating growth, to a Sarasota institution that has been making people laugh for nearly four decades. Hear Stacey Marks of Fly Dance Fitness, Bill Johnson of Brilliant Harvest and Les McCurdy of McCurdy's Comedy Theatre and Humor Institute. Networking opportunities and a VIP afterparty are included.
Community Center at The Bay, 803 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
As part of ASC's Lighter Fare series, the joyful trio Biriba Union performs original compositions that draw on the freestyle theatrics of hip-hop and Go-go music, the effortless beauty of Brazilian forro and choro, the earthiness of American roots music and the improvisational spontaneity of jazz. Hear Mike Block on cello and vocals, Christylez Bacon on beatbox, guitar and rhymes, and Patricia Ligia on electric bass and vocals. This open seating concert will be held outdoors at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, weather permitting. A cash bar by Michael's on East will also be available.
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound St., Sarasota
Set in 1927, this beloved musical comedy is about Hollywood’s tumultuous transition from silent films to talkies. The story follows dashing silent film star Don Lockwood as he falls for an aspiring actress while struggling with his screechy-voiced co-star, Lina Lamont, who stands poised to sabotage both his love and his career. A hilarious send-up of Hollywood’s foibles, this beloved musical has it all: sweeping romance, show-stopping choreography, and some of the greatest tunes ever written.
Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota
Sarasota Ballet's second program, featuring live music by the Sarasota Orchestra, brings together three works–two of them Company premieres–that explore imagination and characterization. Solitaire by Sir Kenneth MacMillan follows a solitary figure who drifts between observer and participant in a series of elegant, interconnected sections. In Lyric Pieces, Jessica Lang creates a sequence of poetic scenes that feel both playful and refined. Alexei Ratmansky's Pictures at an Exhibition bursts with color and energy, inspired by Mussorgsky's famed piano score and the vivid watercolor imagery of Wassily Kandinsky.
Sarasota Opera House, 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties will host their annual Champions for Children Gala, beginning with a reception at 6pm, followed by a delicious 3-course gourmet dinner catered by Michael's on East. There will be live auctions and raffles, along with inspiring performances by Boys and Girls Club members. Black tie is optional. Proceeds will benefit Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties' award-winning slate of teen programs and provide transformational services to thousands of young individuals across Sarasota and DeSoto Counties.
The Ora, 578 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota
Off the Page Literary Celebration welcomes Craig Johnson, a New York Times bestselling author of the Walt Longmire mystery novels, which are the basis for Longmire, the hit Netflix original drama. Spirit of Steamboat was selected by the Wyoming State Library as the inaugural One Book Wyoming. Barnes and Noble will be on site selling books.
Selby Library, 1331 1st St., Sarasota
Join Off the Page Literary Celebration for an evening with New York Times bestselling author Kate Quinn, known for The Alice Network and The Rose Code. Quinn will discuss her newest novel, The Astral Library, and explore her process for researching and writing immersive, character-driven historical fiction. A book signing will follow.
Venice Community Center, 326 Nokomis Ave. S, Venice
Visit Lefty's on November 19 to enjoy the freshest offerings from Florida's farmed shellfish. They will be shucking & grilling farmed clams and oysters harvested only hours before you enjoy! Taste specially curated wines to complement the feast and meet four local Florida shellfish growers who will teach you about their work and the future of sustainable Florida shellfish. Meet the local Oyster Boys Conservation, make a VOG (Vertical Oyster Garden) and learn how their work in our Bay is helping sustain the health of our precious coastal waters. And, enjoy a little live music, too! Visit the Eventbrite link to purchase tickets.
Lefty's Oyster and Seafood Bar, 428 N Lemon Ave., Sarasota
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