SRQ Daily Aug 14, 2024 (2024)

[Recognition ]Leadership Sarasota Honors Meghan Serrano for Boys & Girls Club Advocacy
Barbie Heit, barbie.heit@srqme.com

Shumaker Partner Meghan O. Serrano has been recognized by Leadership Sarasota for her exemplary work with the Boys & Girls Club of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties. At the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Celebrate Outstanding Leadership Awards annual luncheon, Meghan was presented with the prestigious 'Impact in Action' award.

"I am deeply humbled and honored to be recognized as a leader making a difference for the children of Sarasota—the community I love and call home," said Meghan.

Serrano’s interest in the Club goes back to 2009 when she first moved to Sarasota and had her sights set on finding an organization to volunteer with that helped kids. One of her law partners had worked with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties for a long time and he introduced her to the staff there. She started off by helping out with some committees and decided to join the Board of Directors in 2016. She has remained passionate about the Club ever since, and is the immediate past Board Chair. Her dedication, however, has gone far beyond the boardroom through mentorship, legal counseling, financial support and visionary leadership with one of her greatest accomplishments being the “Times of Crisis” operation manual that she helped design and implement. Following the damage caused by Hurricane Ian, Meghan worked tirelessly as part of the team dedicated to rebuilding the club, which benefits hundreds of children in the local community each year. As part of that effort, Meghan assisted in securing a loan to help rebuild the club.

“Everything I do for the Boys and Girls Club is instantly gratifying and I know I am making a difference,” she shares. “I wish there had been an organization like the Club in my hometown when I was growing up. That feeling definitely drives my commitment to this organization.”

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Sarasota program is a year-long intensive program which enhances participants' awareness of community needs by examining how leadership in historical, geographical, educational, economic, governmental, and cultural segments work together to advance Sarasota County. The annual “Celebrate Outstanding Leadership Awards” luncheon honors graduates who have shown exceptional leadership within the program and the community.

Meghan, an accomplished lawyer in all phases of business litigation, is known for her meticulous and hardworking nature. Serving as Shumaker’s Litigation and Disputes Regional Service Line Leader and Financial Institutions and Insurance Business Sector Co-Chair, Meghan regularly represents businesses, business owners, employers, insurers, banks, lenders, and landlords in both state and federal court, at the trial level and on appeal.

[Support]SRQ Strong: Taking the Steps to Build a Trauma-Informed Community
Solymar Estrella, solymar@srqme.com

In order to create a better Sarasota, SRQ Strong believes that we must first create a space where the community cares for itself, a space where people have the tools to enact change and support one another. Part of creating a strong and compassionate community is to be aware of how trauma shows its different faces and know the resources needed to address them. SRQ Strong is a nonprofit organization composed of a growing group of Sarasota County neighbors committed to learning about trauma and responding to its impact. Through their four components of change, Healing, Education, Action, and Leadership, SRQ Strong teaches trauma awareness to our community. Andy Blanch, who has spent her life peacemaking, saw the need for community healing projects within Sarasota and founded SRQ Strong. She believes that we must shift the conversation to one that at its core is compassionate; this can be done by understanding trauma. Blanch says “Once you understand trauma in the trauma world, one of our catchphrases is, you don't ask what's wrong with him, you ask what happened to him.”

SRQ Strong’s mission is to provide the community with the education and resources necessary to bring on this shift toward compassion when trauma is present. “We do things like we work in churches, we work with the safe children's coalition, with their staff, as well as with the youth in foster care settings, etcetera, because all of those people have experienced trauma,” Blanch says. Along with educating the community about trauma, trauma must be addressed and healed. This is why bringing the act of providing support to heal these traumas continues to be the core component of the caring community SRQ Strong envisions for our future. “To know how to respond effectively, to put information in people's hands is absolutely essential in a public health model, so we're a lot about that,” says Blanch.

SRQ Strong hosts Community Conversations that create a space where members of the community can come together to learn, share their own stories, and ultimately just participate. Blanch wants to emphasize that they really are conversations–not trainings.

Ultimately, Blanch and SRQ Strong invite you to learn more about where trauma resides in our community and the different ways you can help. “The first thing is to recognize when you see somebody or yourself, your friends, your family who could use some support, don't hesitate to contact us.” Reach out to sarasotastrong@gmail.com for support.

Pictured: A joyful hug at a Community Conversation. Photo courtesy of SRQ Strong.

To learn more, visit.

[Storm Damage]Community Cleanup Needed after Tropical Storm Debby

Tropical Storm Debby has left a path of destruction, and our community needs your help to recover. Hundreds of families have lost so much and entire neighborhoods need help clearing debris out of their houses and yards. Join Rotary International District 6960 today at one of two locations for a community cleanup. In addition to debris removal, help is also needed with food and supply distribution and donations. Let’s come together to support our neighbors and restore our beautiful city.

To learn more, visit.

[Grant]Asolo Rep Receives $25,000 Grant from The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation

Asolo Repertory Theatre has received a $25,000 grant from the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation designated towards the construction steel needed for the framework of Asolo Rep’s new costume storage facility. This storage facility aims to catalog and preserve the theatre’s collection of one-of-a-kind pieces designed by artists from around the world, including a remarkable inventory of historical couture costumes, and ensure their availability for future generations of theatre enthusiasts.This state-of-the-art center will provide uncrowded, climate- and light-controlled costume storage that prevents fabric damage, increasing the longevity and integrity of each piece. Adequate costume storage also gives Asolo Rep the space needed to digitally catalogue and organize costume inventory, an essential step in increasing capacity to generate income through costume rentals, and savings through accessibility of inventory to designers. Construction of the costume storage facility will begin in the summer of 2024, with expected completion in January 2025. Asolo Rep is posed to be the largest professional not-for-profit theatre in the Southeastern United States offering costume rentals, serving as a springboard for successful theatrical productions on Broadway and at other regional theatres throughout the country.

[Recognition ]FST and the Terrence McNally Foundation Announce Recovery Commission Winner

Florida Studio Theatre, The Recovery Project, and The Terrence McNally Foundation, are proud to announce Jake Brasch has been selected as the recipient of the Terrence McNally Recovery Commission. This accolade, part of FST’s ongoing commitment to foster new talent and promote compelling storytelling, includes a $10,000 new play commission and the invaluable mentorship of esteemed playwright Craig Lucas.

[Team Growth]Gulf Coast Community Foundation Announces Team Growth

Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast) is proud to announce the promotion of Kelly Borgia to Director of Brand Engagement, the selection of Carol Martin Brown, MBA, CPA as Chief Financial Officer, and the addition of Emily Joslin as Philanthropic Advisor. “Kelly, Carol, and Emily bring unique strengths and community insight to fuel exceptional donor experiences and deepened community impact. I am excited about our team members in their new roles at Gulf Coast Community Foundation, as the qualities and experiences that Kelly, Carol, and Emily bring will benefit our community and Foundation for years to come. With our dynamic and dedicated team, we are fully prepared to deliver outstanding support to our donors and the community we serve," said Gulf Coast’s President | CEO Phillip Lanham. Borgia joined Gulf Coast in 2018 after working for 10 years at Asolo Repertory Theatre as their Production Stage Manager. In her six-plus-year career at Gulf Coast, Borgia has served as a Philanthropic Administrator on the Philanthropy Team, Strategic Engagement Manager on the Brand Strategy and Experience Team, and as of July 2024, she has now been promoted to Director of Brand Engagement. In her new role, Borgia will oversee Gulf Coast’s strategic communication efforts, ensuring alignment with the Foundation’s goals and enhancing brand visibility and loyalty. She will manage partnerships, coordinate major grants, and lead event planning. Martin Brown, a certified public accountant, joins Gulf Coast with 30 years of financial leadership experience in the social sector and investments industry, most recently spending six years at the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg as their Chief Financial and Administrative Officer. She is passionate about Gulf Coast’s mission-driven work and making a meaningful impact in the community. In her new role, Martin Brown will work with the Board and staff to create and monitor policies that strengthen Gulf Coast, its investment portfolio, its spending, and its internal controls, providing key information to inform Gulf Coast’s future. Joslin joined Gulf Coast in August 2024 after serving as Associate Director of Development for the Circle Program at The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, overseeing the museum’s highest level of membership, developing relationships with donors, and offering unique stewardship experiences over the last two years. A senior-level executive with 25 plus years of experience in finance, philanthropy, marketing, and media, she works directly with donors to realize their philanthropic goals and maximize their impact in her Gulf Coast Philanthropic Advisor role. Joslin’s extensive experience working with philanthropists and her ability to create unique opportunities that speak directly to their passions make her an exciting fit for the Gulf Coast team and its donors.

Pictured: Gulf Coast Community Foundation announces staff expansion and growth, with Kelly Borgia being promoted to Director of Brand Engagement, Carol Martin Brown, MBA, CPA joining as Chief Financial Officer, and Emily Joslin joining the Philanthropy t

[Donations]Coastal Orthopedics Donates Children's Clothing to Benefit The Twig

Coastal Orthopedics, a full-service provider of comprehensive orthopedic surgery, sports medicine, spine care, diagnostic imaging and physical therapy service, recently hosted an internal clothing drive amongst its employees to collect children’s clothing to donate to The Twig, a 501(c)3 charity that provides a haven for the foster care community and works to inspire and encourage foster families ​by meeting their needs. Over the course of a month, employees at Coastal Orthopedics were encouraged to bring in new and gently used children's items to all three of Coastal Orthopedics’ locations. Three large boxes were filled, as well as several bags. The Twig has two storefront locations, allowing children in the foster care system to shop for clothing in a space that brings them dignity, encouragement and inspiration. Children in foster care are eligible to shop at the store once every calendar month while they are in care with a supervising agency for free, and the organization serves more than 400 children every month.

[Grants]Community Assisted and Supported Living, Inc.(CASL) receives $33,000 Grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County in support of Legacy Village Supportive Housing Initiative

Community Assisted and Supported Living, Inc. is pleased to announce it has received a $33,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. These funds will help cover the gap in funding for the demolition and asbestos removal of the Budget Inn located at the corner of Tamiami Trail and Braden Avenue. This will make way for the development of Legacy Village, a 60 unit apartment complex for individuals with disabling conditions. The project is a partnership between CASL and Easter Seals of Southwest Fl., with Blue Sky communities as the development partner. This grant provides CASL support for the unplanned expense of asbestos removal found when preparing for the Budget Inn demolition. This will help the project to stay on target with its development timeline.

[Outreach]Key Chorale's Community Outreach Choirs

Since 1984, Key Chorale, the Suncoast’s premier symphonic chorus, has created unforgettable programs that continue to push the boundaries of choral music. And, for more than a decade, Key Chorale has been bringing the therapeutic benefits of singing to our community with their outreach choirs. Later this month, four different specialty choirs are set to begin - choirs for those living with Parkinson’s, dementia and memory loss. Key Chorale has been involved with community outreach choirs since 2012 working with local non-profit organizations dedicated to specific health challenges. Participating in a choir is a meaningful way to engage in community life and improve emotional well-being. Choir members develop friendships, work together to create a beautiful sound, and gain the many therapeutic benefits of singing. Group singing provides physical, emotional, and social benefits. These benefits are felt by attendees, care partners and volunteer singers from Key Chorale. Each season, Key Chorale delivers 64 sessions of meaningful, purposeful singing experiences for senior enrichment and those living with health challenges and their care partners. These choirs include Where Are My Keys? Chorale in partnership with Senior Friendship Centers and JFCS of the Suncoast, Off-Key Chorale for those living with Parkinson’s in partnership with Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s, and the Come Together Choir for senior enrichment in partnership with Town Square Sarasota.New sessions begin August 22 and also later in the fall. If you, or someone you know, might benefit from being part of one of Key Chorale’s outreach choirs, please contact Ellen Schaller at 941.921.4845 or ellen.schaller@keychorale.org for more information. These outreach choirs are made possible thanks to the generosity of our Community Outreach Initiative Fund Benefactors Charlie Ann & Jim Syprett, and Community Outreach Underwriters Phil Butler & Nadine Thomas, Don & Pat Clem, and Katherine & Frank Martucci.

Pictured: Local Come Together Choir at Town Square. Photo courtesy of Key Chorale.

[SOON]BUSINESS:Collaborative Coworking Meetup at UTC, September 1 – December 27, 11am-4pm

Attention all business professionals, join us for a productive and inspiring coworking event at Panera Bread at the UTC Mall every Friday. Take advantage of this opportunity to network and collaborate with fellow professionals in a relaxed and comfortable environment. Limited spots available, so register now on Eventbrite. Panera Bread, 215 N. Cattlemen Road, Sarasota.

[SOON]SEMINAR:Divorce Support Group, May 1 – January 6, Every Wednesday from 5-6:30pm

The Womens Resource Center presents a Divorce Support Group facilitated by Paula Falk, BS. This in-person, free program happens every Wednesday, 5-6:30 p.m., starting May 1, at the Womens Resource Center Sarasota, 340 S Tuttle Ave., Sarasota. Participants can attend one or all of the sessions. To register, visit www.mywrc.org/divorcesupportgroup. For more information, call 941-366-1700.

[SOON]GRAB BAG:Salvation Army of Sarasota Food Pantry, May 30 – September 1, 12pm

The Salvation Army of Sarasota has a new Food Pantry that is now open Mondays and Thursdays from 12:00om to 2:00pm at 1701 South Tuttle Avenue. Food is being supplies by All Faiths Food Bank.

Salvation Army of Sarasota , 1701 South Tuttle Avenue

[SOON]GRAB BAG:Awaken Outreach , May 30 – September 1, 9:00am

Awaken Outreach in North Port/Venice has a drive through food pantry every Friday from 9:00am-12:00opm. Food is supplied by All Faiths Food Bank. Food pantry for walk in clients is open Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9:00am - 1:00pm and Wednesday from 3:00pm - 7:00pm. The first Saturday of every month from 9:00 am- 1:00pm clients may get a hot meal, haircut, and shower, clothing and household items.

Awaken Outreach , 4940 Pan American Blvd. in North Port

[SOON]BUSINESS:Lets Connect at Oscura in Old Manatee, August 31 – December 26, 8:30-10am

Connect with local business owners at every Thursday at Oscura. Lets Connect is a community of collaborative business professionals from the Manatee and Sarasota County areas. RSVP on Eventbrite to attend, admission is free.

[SOON]BUSINESS:Workforce Development Program, June 12 – September 1

All current jobs through the Department of Transportation for road/construction are listed on a map of Florida. Clients of the Women's Resource Center will first apply online and then begin the job search. Local agent for Manatee and Sarasota counties will work directly with client helping with job search and building a resume. Currently, they are working to promote womrn in this field.

The Womens Resource Center, 340 S Tuttle Ave, Sarasota, FL 34237

[SOON]GRAB BAG:Project Phoenix and Resale, June 12 – September 1

Project Phoenix and Resale will help clients who are starting over due to losing a home through a fire or other life changing events. Residents Sarasota and Charlotte County who have experience said events get household, personal, and or food items at no cost. Must first call for an appointment and be reffered by a local nonprofit.

Project Phoenix and Resale, 36 W Dearborn St., Englewood, FL 34223

[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]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]GRAB BAG:Laser Light Nights, May 23 – August 31, 7pm and 9pm

Break out your big hair and acid-washed denims and get ready to rock out with some of your favorite artists in The Planetarium. The event takes place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night from May 23 through August 31. There are various food and drink options available for purchase onsite with cash or card. Please note that Laser Light Nights involve bright, flashing lasers that may not be suitable for people with photo sensitivities. Viewer discretion is advised. Laser Light Nights are at a volume similar to a rock concert, so earplugs are recommended for those who prefer a lower volume. To learn more, visit bishopscience.org.

[SOON]GRAB BAG:Senior Friendship Centers Presents Joyful Journeys Authors Series, June 27 – August 15, 5:00pm

Senior Friendship Centers announces the continuation of its popular monthly authors series, “Joyful Journeys.” This engaging, free series celebrates the art of storytelling and highlights local authors. Each month, “Joyful Journeys” features a different author who will share their unique insights, captivating stories, and personal experiences. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in lively discussions, participate in Q&A sessions, and connect with fellow literature enthusiasts. These monthly events are on Thursdays, 5-6:30 p.m., at Senior Friendship Centers, 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota. “Joyful Journeys” is free, but registration is required.

Senior Friendship Centers, Senior Friendship Centers, 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota

[SOON]THEATER:FST Extends The Outsider Through August 25, July 24 – August 25, 2pm, 3pm, 7pm and 8pm

The Outsider centers on Ned Newley, an inexperienced political novice who unexpectedly steps into the spotlight as the new candidate for governor after a scandal forces his party’s leader to resign. Despite his lack of political experience, Ned must navigate his new role amidst a whirlwind of challenges. The play uses sharp humor and wit to delve into themes of integrity, public perception, and the essence of leadership. Through its comedic and often farcical situations, The Outsider highlights the stark contrast between public expectations and the realities of political life, offering both entertainment and insightful commentary on contemporary issues.Due to audience demand, FST is extending the run ofThe Outsiderbyan additional week. This sharp, witty comedy will now play in FST’s Gompertz Theatre through August 25, 2024.

FST Gompertz Theatre, 1241 N Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]FOOD:A Taste of Art, July 23 – August 21, 5pm

TheA Taste of Art event takes placeat Chaz 51 Steakhouse, 549 US 41 Bypass N, Venice. The partnership pairs fine cuisine with fine art and demonstrations every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evenings, 5-8:30 p.m. Enjoy a meal and interact with artists.

Creative Liberties, 549 US 41 Bypass N, Venice

[SOON]GALLERY:Selby Gardens | The Florida Highwaymen: Interstate Connections, July 20 – September 15

Our Summer Exhibition The Florida Highwaymen: Interstate Connections features beautiful landscapes of the Sunshine State produced by the Highwaymen, a group of African American painters active in Fort Pierce on Florida’s east coast beginning in the mid-1950s. The exhibition celebrates the achievements of these talented artists, while also making connections between their remarkable story and the experience of the African American community in Sarasota in the middle decades of the 20th century.Presented in collaboration with the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition. Paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax.

Selby Gardens, 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]MUSIC:Catalyst Quartet, March 30, 4:00 pm

The Grammy Award-winning Catalyst Quartet was founded by the internationally acclaimed Sphinx Organization in 2010. The ensemble believes in the unity that can be achieved through music and seeks to redefine and reimagine the classical music experience. They have toured widely throughout the United States and abroad, including sold-out performances in some of the world’s most prestigious venues. This program includes music by Gershwin, Piazzolla, and Ravel. Tickets are $43 & $63 and the event will be held at the First Presbyterian Church. For more information, visitArtistseriesconcerts.org.

[SOON]MUSIC:Horns of Plenty, March 13, 11 am

Calling all lovers of the expressive French horn! Sarasota Orchestra’s co-principal horn Hugo Bliss disjointed by a fellow superstar, Milwaukee Symphony’s hornist Scott Sanders whose career also began in Sarasota. Together with Joesph Holt on piano, they offer a cornucopia of remarkable music for this most magnificent instrument. The program includes Beethoven’s mighty sextet for two horns and string quartet. The performance will be held at the Sarasota Yacht Club on March 13, 2025 at 11 am. Tickets are $70. For more information, visit Artistseriesconcerts.org.

[SOON]PERFORMANCE:Lewis Black, Goodbye Yeller Brick Road, December 6, 8pm

Two-time Grammy Award-winning Comedian Lewis Black releases additional dates for his GOODBYE YELLER BRICK ROAD, THE FINAL TOUR that will include a show at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall on Friday, December 6, 2024 at 8pm. Tickets start at $35 and can be purchased at www.VanWezel.org, by calling the box office at 941-263-6799 or by visiting the box office Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Groups of 10 or more should contact 941-263-6726. Pre-show dining is available through Mattisons at the Van Wezel which is located inside the theatre. Reservations can be made on VanWezel.org or through the box office.

[SOON]FILM:The Greatest Show On Earth at the Sarasota Opera, October 18, 7:30pm

From May 10th- October 18th, Sarasota Opera House will be showing classic movies as timeless as the theater itself. Our Classic Movies at the Opera House series begins on Friday, May 10. HD at the Opera House series begins on June 9. Tickets on sale now! This lavish tribute to circus life, features three intertwining plotlines concerning romance and rivalry beneath the big top. Action sequences include a show-stopping train wreck. The film won Academy Awards for Best Picture and Best Story. Directed by Cecil B. DeMille and starring Charlton Heston, Betty Hutton, Dorothy Lamour, Cornel Wilde, and Gloria Grahame. Running time: 2 hours, 32 minutes.

Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236

[SOON]PERFORMANCE:Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe 2024-25, October 9 – May 25

Season subscriptions and individual tickets are going on sale for WestcoastBlack Theatre Troupe's highly-anticipated 25th anniversary season, titled "25 Years of Black Heritage." The season features four mainstage productions - "Soul Crooners Solid Gold Edition," "Fences," "Five Guys Named Moe," and WBTT's first-ever tap dancing musical revue, "Syncopated Avenue"; holiday show is "A Motown Christmas."Visitwestcoastblacktheatre.orgto learn more about WBTT and to purchase tickets and subscriptions.

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236