SRQ Magazine | May/June 2022 + Living Bradenton Area

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Contents may/june 2022

This page: Pickles was

selected as one of this year’s Pets We Love Competition winners.

This 3-year old Chiweenie enjoys a constant supply of petting and playing from her owner Nickie Hartsock, and on her ideal day, she gets to work to earn chicken chips. Photo

by Wyatt Kostygan.

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It doesn’t matter what species, breed or age, where we find them or how we find them—they become part of you, your family and your home. You love them hard, and they love you back even harder. Well, cats might be another matter, but as long as we feed them, right? From a number of dog rescues and a munchkin kitty to a vivacious parrot and farm-family donkey, it’s time to honor our furry and feathery friends for their endless adoration and entertainment. Give a warm welcome to SRQ’s 4th Annual Pets We Love Contest winners. We thoroughly enjoyed reading through all the heartwarming submissions—including purrfect personalities, funny quirks, naughty habits, impressive tricks and adorable traits. You’re all in for a real treat. Com-

IT’S HARD TO PUT INTO WORDS WHAT OUR PETS MEAN TO US.

piled by Arianna Boenker. Photography by Wyatt Kostygan and Wes Roberts. Program produced by Hannah Peterson.

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FIVE AREA NONPROFITS are embarking on brick-and-mortar

expansions that will transform how their organizations serve the Sarasota-Manatee community. Written by Abby Weingarten.

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FIRST 1,000 DAYS SUNCOAST SUPPORTS LOCAL PARENTS,

caregivers and their babies so that all families have equal opportunities to thrive regardless of race, education or socioeconomic status. Written by Abby Weingarten | Illustration by Woody Woodman.

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2021 Top Doctors There was a time, not long ago, when area residents traveled out of town seeking expertise for their complicated medical problems. Now, however, a cadre of top-of-the-line physicians who would be the envy of any community have made the Sarasota area their home.

“We have worked hard to bring the best and the brightest to this community,” notes John Steele, M.D., a founding member of Intercoastal. “Our mission has always been to provide the highest quality health care. The success of Intercoastal is the result of quality and hard work by each of the physicians who make up the group.”

Intercoastal Medical Group is proud of its physician colleagues who have been named by their peers for SRQ Top Docs.

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Suzanne Lutton

Hakim Morsli

Wende Kozlow

Jesus Perez

Cardiology

Cardiology

Endocrinology Diabetes

Endocrinology Diabetes

Robert Browning

Jon Yenari

David Reichel

Ricardo Yaryura

General Surgery

Gynecology

Internal Medicine

Interventional Cardiology

Matthew D. Byers

Richard Aranibar

Joe T. Kelley

Luis G. Guzman

Pulmonology and Critical Care

Rheumatology

Rheumatology

Otolaryngology Ear, Nose & Throat

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INTERCOASTAL MEDICAL GROUP is a physician-owned and led organization, consisting of more than 100 physicians in more than 20 specialties, serving Sarasota and Manatee counties with multiple locations. Founded in 1993, Intercoastal features a team of board certified, experienced physicians, all of whom completed their residency training programs in either the United States or Canada. The physicians at Intercoastal Medical Group are highly recruited, nationally — coming from some of the best medical institutions across the country. Intercoastal offers this area’s most current technology and resources, allowing for fast and accurate diagnostic tests and procedures at conveniently located Intercoastal facilities. No matter your health concern, Intercoastal Medical Group provides seamless care through the shared accessibility of medical records among all of our specialists. Patients have access to weekend care clinics and superior services such as a 10,500-square-foot state-ofthe-art ambulatory surgery center, where more than 8,000 surgeries are performed a year. Intercoastal services also include physical therapy, audiology, clinical laboratory and a wealth of diagnostic imaging options.

Mauricio Concha

Penny Heinrich

Ryan Supplee

Francene Martin

Mark Ramos

Neurology

Hematology

Vascular Surgery

Gastroenterology

Cardiology

Robert J. Summerlee

Randy B. Powell

Julio Cantero

Joseph Yohn

Janine Mylett

Family Medicine

Neurology

Dermatology

Pulmonology and Critical Care

Gastroenterology

CONTACT | intercoastalmedical.com

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contents

may/june 2022

BRANDED CONTENT FEATURES 11

BRANDSTORY SARASOTA MILITARY ACADEMY

55 ELITE AGENTS MARIANNE LEBAR SUSIE PORTER VICTORIA STULTZ ALEXIS ZIBOLIS 63

IN CONVERSATION WITH PRESIDENT DR. CAROl PROBSTFELD OF THE STATE COLLEGE OF FLORDA, MANATEESARASOTA

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GIVING COAST NONPROFITS TAKE THE LEAD IN OUR REGION TO DELIVER IMPACTFUL PROGRAMS

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Cover: Pets We Love’s Cooper aka Bear takes a windblown ride in his Jeep, photography by Wes Roberts.. This page clockwise: Meliora Restaurant and artist Daniel Lind-Ramos, photography by Wyatt Kostygan. Equipped for on-the-road transport, courtesy of SeaSucker.

Jamie Ruetz of Triton Music Services provides instruments to students who would otherwise not be able to afford them. With a lime squeeze and a pinch of salt, Hiatus Tequila entices you to pause and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Bradenton manufacturer SeaSucker, designs vacuum seal technology for cycling and angling expeditions. Portrait

photographer Susan Sidebottom brings focus to the affordable housing crisis in Sarasota.

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Daniel Lind-Ramos pays homage to his native Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria with an exhibition at Sarasota Art Museum. Kathryn Parks, an award-winning Sarasota film maker, chronicles the marriage and performing arts career of her parents, The Fabulous Ohs.

ROCKETKIDS | 97 SUMMER CAMPS FOR KIDS IN SARASOTA + MANATEE Explore opportunities this summer for camps in coding, sports, technology, arts, cooking and theatre.

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Celebrate Mothers Day and Fathers Day with the perfect gift for moms, dads, and those special parental figures in your life. Surge Style boutique brings a new and youthful approach to clothing with an elevated version of beachy-chic.

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With an understated menu, in an understated restaurant, Meliora makes dishes worthy of a canvas.

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Visionary leader Nicole Murby looks for ways to increase happiness and decrease burdens for families affected by disabilities.

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M AY/J U N E 2 0 2 2 CEO / PRESIDENT / EDITOR IN CHIEF

LISL LIANG VP OF PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEO

Wyatt Kostygan MANAGING + BRANDED CONTENT EDITOR

Barbie Heit CONTRIBUTING SENIOR EDITORS

Andrew Fabian, Phil Lederer, Brittany Mattie, Jacob Ogles CONTRIBUTING EDITORS AND ARTISTS

Ariel Chates, Chris Leverett, Abby Weingarten, Woody Woodman DESIGN CONTRIBUTOR Winona Nasser EDITORIAL+DESIGN INTERNS

Dylan Campbell, Grace Castilow, Nilyana Rodriguez PRODUCTION | EDITORIAL INTERN

Arianna Boenker

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GET SRQ DAILY The magazine in your hands offers enormous insight into our community, but the most informed in our community follow our constant coverage of Sarasota and the Bradenton Area in SRQ Daily. The electronic newsletter is a must-read in thousands of inboxes. Check our special editions: the Monday Business Edition, the Wednesday Philanthropy Edition, the Friday Weekend Edition and the much-discussed Saturday Perspectives Edition, featuring a diverse range of opinions from the region’s top pundits and newsmakers. SIGN UP ONLINE AT SRQMAG.COM/SRQDAILY

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Grace Castilow

ORIGINS OF “SRQ” The “SRQ” in SRQ magazine originates from the designated call letters for the local Sarasota Bradenton International Airport.

“SR” was the original abbreviation for the airport before the growth in total number of airports required the use of a three-letter code. Letters like “X” and “Q” were used as filler, thus the original “SR” was revised to “SRQ,” much as the Los Angeles airport became “LAX.” As a regional publication committed to the residents of and visitors to both Sarasota and Manatee counties, SRQ captures the place that we call home.

LOCAL PUBLISHERS OF SRQ MAGAZINE, LIVING LAKEWOOD, ROCKETKIDS, SRQ TOP DOCTORS MEDICAL RESOURCE GUIDE, SRQ ELITE TOP ATTORNEYS PROGRAM, SRQ HOME & DESIGN, SHE ROARS, LIVING BRADENTON AREA, LOVE LOCAL GUIDEBOOK AND SRQ DAILY.

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SUBSCRIBE TO THE PRINT AND DIGITAL EDITION Join our readers in the pleasurable experience of receiving SRQ magazine in your mailbox every month during season and bimonthly during the summer. To reserve your subscription, provide your information and payment online. You can set up multiple addresses, renewals and special instructions directly through your online account. When you subscribe online, your first print issue will arrive in your mailbox in 6-10 weeks. Subscribe online at SRQMAG.COM/SUBSCRIBE. Contact us via email at subscribe@srqme.com Vol. 25, Issue 245 Copyright © 2022 SRQ MEDIA. SRQ: Live Local | Love Locall. Sarasota and Bradenton Area is published 10 times a year. IMPORTANT NOTICE: The entire contents of SRQ are copyrighted by Trafalger Communications, Inc. Column and department names are property of Trafalger Communications, Inc. and may not be used or reproduced without express written permission of the publisher. SUBSCRIPTION: Subscriptions to SRQ are $36 for 20 issues. Single copies are $4 at area newsstands.

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THE PASSION TO LEARN. THE COURAGE TO TRY.

SARASOTA MILITARY ACADEMY

EMPOWERING CADETS ALONG THE WAY An environment that provides structure, inspiration, and support. One that sets clear expectations and offers challenges to grow and learn. A place where lasting relationships develop and character is formed.

A school like Sarasota Military Academy.

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VALUES—THE HEARTBEAT OF SMA COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT SPARKS ADVOCACY Selfless Service, a core value embedded in the JROTC and SMA curricula, culminates every year with five service learning projects. SMA cadets go beyond the Florida community service graduation requirement of 75 hours to average over 125 hours per cadet.

The selection process for each service project requires in-depth research and a needs assessment with a meaningful focus on community impact. One selected this fall was “Blankets on the Block,” a fundraising effort that provided over 200 blankets to those experiencing homelessness.

Giving back to one’s community and understanding the value that comes from volunteership, commitment, and bringing awareness to local community issues forms the foundation of an SMA advocate.

As the sun rises over formation, everyone is completely silent at attention and awaiting their Cadet Commander to give the order for the raising of the National Flag and saying the Pledge of Allegiance. Peer cadet leaders inspect uniforms which are worn proudly as an outward sign of everything a cadet has individually participated in, accomplished, and earned. This series of events will play out every weekday on both SMA campuses.

THE STUDENTS AT SARASOTA MILITARY ACADEMY (SMA) ARE CADETS WHO SHOW A LEVEL OF RESPECT AND INTEGRITY NOT OFTEN FOUND IN YOUNG PEOPLE. THIS COMES FROM THE CORE ETHICAL VALUES OF THE JROTC PROGRAM THAT SHAPE THE EXPECTATIONS OF AN ACADEMY-WIDE CULTURE. Cadets learn how integrity is the foundation of their today and tomorrow regardless of the path they choose. “The path is not easy, but I was supported every step of the way,” recalls Jessiah Straw, Class of 2013. Each cadet’s journey in academics is strengthened not only by their determination, but with the knowledge that peers and faculty are there to lend support. “SMA will always have your back,” says Sophia Hoffman, Class of 2022.

Classes are 85 minutes long on a “4x4 Block” schedule in which cadets take four classes every semester covering a full year’s curriculum. The benefits are that it provides a deeper learning opportunity through enhanced lesson plans and fosters greater intellectual curiosity in more subjects. Most importantly, this unique schedule allows for the development of a stronger bond between faculty and cadet as stated by Jennifer Walcker, Class of 2023, “I want to be the impact that my teachers were for me!”

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A J O U R N E Y O F G R O W TH C/2LT AYLA EDWARDS, CLASS OF 2024 Ayla is a leader and started at SMA in the sixth grade and with each step of the way, she has earned more responsibility – and her potential continues to evolve. “SMA allows me to stand out and be who I want to be,” she says. Ayla’s goal after high school is to attend medical school and become a forensic pathologist.

C/LTC COOPER BOWDITCH, CLASS OF 2022 Cooper was awarded a fulltuition ROTC scholarship from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, but he hopes to attend the US Military Academy at West Point, the Naval Academy or the Air Force Academy – totally in line with his passion to become an aviator in the military. He describes himself as “timid” when he first came to SMA as a 6th grader, seven years ago. The JROTC instructors enabled me to break out of my shell and comfort zone to find a goal and follow it. SMA helps you find who you are to use your traits in the best way you can,” he says. All cadets who start have mentors to look up to and as they grow, become that mentor they once looked up to. “I feel a real sense of accomplishment.”

JESSIAH STRAW, CLASS OF 2013 Jessiah went on to obtain a dual degree in Finance and Business Economics at the Leonard N. Stern School of Business at New York University on a full-tuition scholarship. He has since worked alongside leaders at technology companies, renowned investors, and early-stage entrepreneurs.Today, he is building his own business. He looks back at the relationships and experiences formed at the school with extreme gratitude: ”As I stood there with my diploma in hand and bound for university, I found that I was filled with optimism, knowing I was equipped to navigate the many challenges and opportunities that were waiting for me on the path ahead.”

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S M A TU R N S 2 0 The 2022-23 school year marks the 20th anniversary of Sarasota Military Academy. That’s twenty years of creating an inclusive, challenging and rewarding experience for countless young men and women–building a generation that has led with Honor, Integrity, and Respect.

“THIS IS THE START WHERE YOUR LIFE TAKES OFF, AND I’M GLAD I STARTED HERE.” –Sophia Hoffman,

Class of 2022 (grades 6-12)

Founded in 2002 on the original campus of St. Martha’s School in downtown Sarasota, SMA is a non-profit, tuition-free, public charter school for students in grades 9-12. A Middle School Campus for grades 6-8 was added in 2014 in East Sarasota. During its twenty years, SMA has educated over 20,000 cadets and is poised for continued growth.

“SMA HAS OPENED DOORS THAT

TH E N E X T 2 0 YE A R S

I DIDN’T KNOW WERE THERE.”

With an engaged Board of Directors, an exclusive philanthropic foundation to suppor t expansion initiatives, and the continued steadfast values underpinning our educational model, the future is even brighter for SMA.

–Akiel Reyes Melendez, Class of 2023

“I FEEL A GREAT SENSE OF ACCOMPLISHMENT FOR THE TRANSFORMATION I HAVE UNDERGONE AS A CADET, AND I FEEL A GREAT SENSE OF LOSS FOR LEAVING BEHIND AN ORGANIZATION THAT EMPOWERED ME ALONG THE WAY.” –Jessiah Straw, Class of 2013

We will continue fostering a passion for learning and instilling the courage to reach a greater potential.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT SARASOTA MILITARY ACADEMY, PLEASE VISIT: SARASOTAMILITARYACADEMY.ORG

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STORIES ABOUT THE LOCAL PEOPLE, PLACES AND EXPERIENCES THAT DEFINE OUR HOMETOWN

Below: SeaSucker’s bestselling bike racks attach to vehicles with powerful vaccuum mounts.

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SEAFARING SUCTION

SeaSucker designs and manufacturers vacuum seal technology for land and sea adventuring—from cycling to angling and the transport in between. Arianna Boenker

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ORIGINALLY NAMED “SEACHAIR,” SeaSucker is the third business success of entrepreneur and founder/CEO, Chuck Casagrande. The Bradenton-based manufacturer provides gear for outdoor enthusiasts, whether their passion takes them on roadways or through waterways. From land to sea, at the core of SeaSucker’s car racks for boards and bikes, as well as a multitude of marine/boating accessories, is a vacuum-mount technology as resilient as the company’s mascot—the octopus. Mote Marine scientists and artists were consulted in creating a logo that exudes strength, fun and connectivity to the marine world that inspired the dream.

For 17 years, SeaSucker has remained a family owned and operated company. “We run the business with heart and don’t allow outside funding to force us to care more about profit than our employees and the foundational culture of the company,” says Casagrande. After pursuing other business ventures in England, Casagrande, along with this oldest daughter, Genevieve, President and Chief Operating Officer, decided Bradenton had it all—access to manufacturing facilities, fellow offshore anglers, avid cyclists, paddle boarders and beautiful waters. Not to mention the yearround sunshine for SeaSucker-enhanced activities.

Florida’s Gulf Coast was decidedly the ideal locale for SeaSucker to begin manufacturing their vacuum mount products right here in Florida. While SeaSucker started as a marine focused endeavor to suction just about

anything to a rig while out for the day on the water— including cup holders, rod holders, a cutting table, tool holder, dry boxes, a chair and cooler mounts, etc.—they quickly grew to incorporate car mounts for the transport of other outdoor equipment. SeaSucker’s Talon Rack mounts a single bike to the rooftop of a vehicle and has become the company’s bestseller—sold through the company website as well as through e-retailers like REI, Backcountry, Performance Bicycle and more. Its portability and practicality, coupled with a record setting install time of just under five seconds, attracts athletes and families alike on-the-go to transport their bikes with ease. Though the octopus has now made its way to land, SeaSucker’s mission remains clear — to spend less time loading gear and more time on the move. SRQ srq magazine_ MAY/JUNE22 live local | 17

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MUSIC MAKER

Jamie Ruetz of Triton Music Services repairs, sells and rents instruments to students who would otherwise not be able to afford them. Abby Weingarten

KEEPING STUDENTS PLAYING MUSIC MAKES JAMIE RUETZ HAPPY. He repairs, sells and rents instruments of

the violin variety to support school orchestra programs in Sarasota-Manatee. “I work with families of students to reach a financial solution that works for them if they would like to own an instrument,” Ruetz says. “The school system does a good job of getting instruments into the hands of students at the schools themselves.”

Ruetz plays saxophone, double bass, banjo and electric guitar, and has performed with the Sarasota Pops Orchestra and Strings Con Brio. He went to college for mechanical engineering and initially pursued an engineering career in the automotive industry. He embarked on his current business venture in 2014 when it became clear that the demand for this type of work was exceeding his expectations.

“I discovered that there was a need for this type of service in our area, and I sought training in order to fill that need. What started as a moonlighting business quickly grew into a full-time business, and I left my day job to build this company,” Ruetz says, adding that he also works with private clients outside of the school system. “Seven years later, the company is thriving and I’m looking toward future expansion projects.” Ruetz also designs, manufactures and sells tools for use by other professionals in his industry. This portion of his business has a global reach through an established distribution network, and the Triton brand has become well-known in the violin lutherie market.

“The most rewarding part of this business comes from knowing that I’m helping students to stay interested in music, albeit mostly unbeknownst to them,” Ruetz says. “This happens through regular maintenance and proper setup of the instruments. The easier an instrument is to play, the more likely that student will stick with playing music—at least I like to think so.” SRQ 18 | srq magazine_ MAY/JUNE22 live local

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This page: Jamie Ruetz tinkering with repairs on a violin; Triton Music, tritonmusic.net; 941-677-8150.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WYATT KOSTYGAN.

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FINDING A HOME IN THE SUN A portrait photographer focusing on social issues, Susan Sidebottom brings focus to the affordable housing crisis in Sarasota. Barbie Heit

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MEET SUSAN SIDEBOTTOM, THE PHOTOGRAPHER WHO IS PUTTING A FACE ON THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING CRISIS IN SARASOTA. A humanistic artist who aims

to capture the relationship between people and their circumstances, Sidebottom has been recognized for her photos depicting those who are struggling, such as the homebound elderly and the homeless population. In her photo essay, “Suspended in the Balance” she focused her lens on food insecurity in Iowa, trying to show the emotional trauma that occurs in people who are deprived of the basic necessities of living. When the Gulf Coast Community Foundation decided to shine a light on the affordable housing crisis in Sarasota County, they knew Sidebottom would be the perfect storyteller. Originally from North Carolina, Sidebottom, a mother of four now lives in New Jersey. Always searching for places where there is a real diversity of thought and experience, she was drawn to Sarasota and did not hesitate when the Gulf Coast Community Foundation offered to sponsor her exhibit.

A housing crisis is not usually top of mind when thinking about Sarasota with its luxury homes and modern buildings. But finding an affordable place to live in this area is a challenge that so many people face on a daily basis. According to Jon Thaxton, Senior Vice President for Community Investment at Gulf Coast Community Foundation, there are 172,600 households in Sarasota County. Of those, over 60,000, greater than 40%, are spending more than 30% of their income on housing, which means that every month, 60,000 households have to not pay a bill and they have to decide what bill they’re not going to pay. “The people that are impacted the greatest are our service workforce, people working near and just above minimum wage,” says Thaxton. “And of course that service workforce is many tens of thousands in numbers and they are the individuals that ensure the quality of life that we enjoy in Sarasota. They are the ones that are cleaning the floors, bussing the tables, washing the dishes, cleaning our pools and mowing our lawns. So without them, we don’t have the same quality of life. We have to all agree as a community that affordable housing for our workforce is a necessity. It’s not a luxury anymore. It is no longer just a moral imperative. It is an economic driving force.”

Susan Sidebottom wanted to make these challenges more personable by telling individual stories through photographs. Her new exhibit, “A Place in the Sun” at Art Center Sarasota features 25 photographs of real people in the area who are struggling with or lack of affordable housing and basic needs. Her goal is to offer a deeper understanding of the connection between people and their circumstances.

PORTRAIT OF SUSAN SIDEBOTTOM BY WYATT KOSTYGAN.

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“I hope that people come and they have an emotional response to the work. You can’t predict what that’s going to be because it’ll be different for everyone, depending on their own personal experiences,” she says. “But I hope that they begin to think about the people that they’re looking at and maybe think…is my dry cleaner one of these people? Is the person serving me at a restaurant one of these people? And then they leave and they start thinking about how they can be part of the solution.”

With all of her photos, Sidebottom focuses on the person and their story and thinks about how she can best represent them holistically, not just the challenge they’re experiencing right at that moment. “I try to learn who they are and how I can photograph them in a place of grace and dignity so that other people can see them that way too,” she says. “It’s interesting, because one of the things I do is provide my subjects with a photograph or two after I’ve taken pictures of them. I’ve been told that it’s really transformative because they don’t see themselves in this way. When you are so down and when you’re working so hard and everything you do is a challenge, it’s hard to see yourself as this person who is beautiful and still, and thoughtful and kind.”

The faces in the portraits might be somewhat surprising because they look like the people you see everyday. They’re young and they’re old. They’re black, white and they’re brown.

And they’re all around us with nowhere to go. Even with federal money that came as assistance from the pandemic, affordable housing has not been readily available. As a result, people have been staying in hotel rooms until something more permanent becomes available. And what happens when that federal money runs out? “That’s a very good question,” says Thaxton. “And it’s one we ask ourselves all the time.” SRQ

This page: Photographer Susan Sidebottom focuses on social issues, hoping to offer a deeper understanding of the connection between people and their circumstances.

“A Place In The Sun” is on display at Art Center Sarasota, 707 N. Tamiami Trail through April 30. A portion of the proceeds from the exhibit, donated from Sidebottom and Art Center Sarasota, will benefit Harvest House for their partnership and broad reach as a nonprofit supportive housing provider for those most at risk in the community.

Other contributing organizations include All Faiths Food Bank, Harvest House, Safe Children Coalition, St. Vincent de Paul CARES, and Unidos Now.

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This page: With a lime squeeze and a pinch of salt, Hiatus Tequila entices you to pause and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

Hiatus Tequila takes its sweet time—not only to harvest its blue Weber agave into timeless tequila, but to pause and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Brittany Mattie

SOMEWHERE ALONG THE ROLLING HILLS OF TEQUILA VALLEY IN JALISCO, MEXICO

sits an estate-grown on the edge of an extinct volcano whose porous, fertile soil creates the heavenly foundation for Blue Weber agave plants to grow in abundance, living their best lives. Known as La Cofradía, this third-generation distillery of more than 50 years is where the coming-up tequila brand Hiatus calls its stomping grounds before being distributed across the United States—with a particularly strong presence here in Sarasota and the surrounding Tampa Bay area. Together, with La Cofradía, Hiatus founder Kristopher DeSoto crafted a smooth-as-silk spirit you’d rather not mask in a margarita. Raised in Texas, where the ranch water flows like the Rio Grande, DeSoto was introduced to tequila early days. You could say the love for tequila springboarded his many travels throughout Mexico, including one trip that lasted seven years. In that time, DeSoto noticed that the most sought-after tequilas south of the border were often different from those found on U.S. shelves—the flavors and aromas, he shares, more robust and expressive. Such a tequila (all-natural in taste and production) should also be available in the United States. And luckily, a strong presence happens to be right here in Sarasota, with DeSoto having ties to the area, spending his time between here and New York.

“There’s a lot of mystery surrounding tequila. It’s made from a plant the ancient Aztecs deemed sacred, and the spirit itself is centuries old. We believe that’s where 22 | srq magazine_ MAY/JUNE22 live local

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the mystery should end,” said DeSoto. “We’ve created a tequila with full transparency—ensuring that the spirit in the bottle is a true expression of what tequila should be by using only fully mature agave, taking our time to cook them slowly in masonry ovens, and double distilling to maintain the earthy agave notes that make tequila unique, before filtering out the unsavory finish that defines many tequilas. It may be a slower process, but we prefer quality over speed.”

Produced with the same tools and methods of ancestors centuries past (entirely by hand), La Cofradía’s hardworking jimadores harvest the agave using a primitive tool called a coa to slice the perennial succulent’s fleshy, thick and spiny leaves just the right way to extract the desired piña (the heart of the plant). The jimadores then remove and replant the baby agaves for propagation.

Not sacrificing taste or quality for quickness and convenience, Hiatus Tequila harvests its agave only once it has achieved optimum ripening—at roughly 7-8 years of age. Many big brand tequila companies have been known to cut corners by harvesting their agave before fully ripe, or not using real blue agave at all. Harvesting prematurely often leads to a bitter, harsh taste of unwanted flavors (cue the pursed lips and furrowed brows followed shortly after an emptied shotglass). The piñas filled with sweet agave nectar are then hand loaded onto trucks for their final journey to the distillery. From there, they are weighed, sampled, slowly baked, handmilled, fermented, distilled twice, filtered, oxygenated, bottled and then aged (no aging required for blanco; six months for reposado; a full year for añejo).

Sipping Hiatus neat, or in a craft cocktail, you’ll experience a top-shelf quality that furtively plays with your senses—luxurious mouthfeel, clean aromatics, complex tasting notes and a flawlessly clear (almost undetectable) liquid. Collectively, this grass-to-glass spirit creates a pure, elevated head high, rather than a sloppy, double-vision inebriation largely conspired from mass-produced, “house” labels that have earned the mantra, “one tequila, two tequila, three tequila, floor.” On its own agenda, Hiatus does just what it sets out to do—interrupt the continuity of time, maybe even disrupt the status quo. When life gives you limes, make a paloma—because “going on hiatus” means seeking balance from life’s hectic schedule. And if escaping the daily grind is not in the cards for you, at least opt for a tequila you don’t have to chase. SRQ IMAGE COURTESY OF HIATUS TEQUILA.

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A ROUNDUP OF THIS YEAR’S PAW-SITIVELY PAW-SOME ANIMAL FRIENDS.

Pets We Love

It’s hard to put into words what our pets mean to us. It doesn’t matter what species, breed or age, where we find them or how we find them—they become part of you, your family and your home. You love them hard, and they love you back even harder. Well, cats might be another matter, but as long as we feed them, right? From a number of dog rescues and a munchkin kitty to a vivacious parrot and farm-family donkey, it’s time to honor our furry and feathery friends for their endless adoration and entertainment. Give a warm welcome to SRQ’s 4th Annual Pets We Love Contest winners. We thoroughly enjoyed reading through all the heartwarming submissions—including purrfect personalities, funny quirks, naughty habits, impressive tricks and adorable traits. You’re all in for a real treat… compiled by arianna boenker | photography by wyatt kostygan + wes roberts

Special Thanks To Presenting Sponsor

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COOPER (AKA BEAR) THE 1-YEAR-OLD WANNA-BE CAT. GOLDEN DOODLE

“[Cooper]trots around the neighborhood like he’s the mayor of Charlotte Ave. [He] loves riding in the Jeep with the top off and sits on top of the couch like he’s a cat,” says owner Tyler Duncan.

On his perfect day, find Cooper in the Jeep on his way to the dog park.” Shown on the previous page.

IF HE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HIM, IT WOULD BE Bear Necessities

TIGGY THE 6-MONTH-OLD BRINDLE AMERICAN MIXED BREED

“A few months ago Nate’s Honor Animal Shelter shared a picture of Tiggy (Hulu at the time) on their Facebook saying all of her siblings had been adopted and she was the last of her litter left. After seeing the post I immediately got in my car and drove straight to the shelter with an hour to spare before they were scheduled to close. I knew I would not be able to sleep that night knowing that the 2 month old baby would have to spend the night scared and alone for the first time in a shelter without her siblings,” says owner Bridget Prescott. Now Tiggy enjoys her life in her forever home. “We discovered Tiggy’s most ticklish spot was her armpits, which was while giving her the belly rubs that she loves.

Giving her scratches under her armpits turns her into a wiggle worm with the biggest puppy smile on her face,” says Prescott.

IF SHE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HER, IT WOULD BE The Pupchelorette:

Finding the Pawfect One to Love

PICKLES THE 3-YEAR-OLD CHIWEENIE FROM FOSTER TO FOREVER

“Pickles was only 8-weeks-old and living in a bad environment. I only had cats and didn’t want a dog and definitely had never heard of a Chiweenie. We fostered, and in the end she stole our hearts. Now three years later, she continues to be the love of our lives,” says owner Nickie Hartsock. “Pickles now enjoys a constant supply of petting and playing, and on her ideal day, she gets to eat chicken chips.”

IF SHE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HER, IT WOULD BE

Sweet Pickles

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BESSIE MAY

THE TRAVELING 12-YEAR-OLD YORKI POMERANIAN

“Bessie May has been a part of my life since 2010 when I bought her as a teeny tiny puppy. She is not your typical small dog. She may be small but she is fierce. With five large dogs as her brothers and sisters she is definitely the boss of our house, we even do whatever she asks of us. Ha. As she has aged, she now spends most of her days snoozing and chasing chickens/ducks in her spare time or jumping in the horses water troughs for a nice cool swim. We are owners of an Appaloosa breeding program and she runs that roost too, bossing any horse that gets too close. She is the real deal ranch gal,” says owner Chelsea Thornton.

“This little girl has traveled all across the country with Mom and Dad. She has been on road trips from Florida to Montana, Pennsylvania, Georgia, North Carolina, she has even traveled to Alaska. Sweet Bess was even a part of the bridesmaid party during our wedding in Colorado. Can’t imagine life without this sweet munchkin.”

IF HE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HER, IT WOULD BE

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Backwoods Bessie

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NASH THE 4-YEAR-OLD HOUND MIX

Kristina Ely gave Nash a second chance. “Nash is a rescue found after Hurricane Micheal. We saw a picture of Nash and fell in love when we heard his story.

We went to meet him and as soon as he ran outside the door, he ran in the opposite direction of us and our hearts broke. We decided to take a chance and give the scared sweet boy a real home. Two years later Nash has been the most amazing fit for our family. He loves to do zoomies in the backyard, he has learned how to play fetch, he cuddles with his big sister Stella and has two cat sisters. His favorite thing to do is sit in the sun in the backyard with his mom. We are so lucky to have Nash and allow him to live the life he deserves,” says Ely. IF HE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HIM, IT WOULD BE Nash the Flash

SHAKER THE 11-YEAR-OLD BROTHER OF FOUR. TUXEDO TOY POODLE

Originally an only child, Shaker (in the middle) is now one of five dogs. “Shaker thought he would be an only child but he ended up with four more siblings. Poodles are like potato chips. You can’t just have one,” says owner Sheila Nichols.

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WINNIE THE 1 1/2 -YEAR-OLD PEMBROKE WELSH CORGI

Corgi obsessed mom, Lauren Suchan, found her perfect dog. “Winnie the Pooch” corgi has taken the world by storm in her little life so far.

This wonder-loaf is often compared to a baguette because she is much longer than other corgis,” says Suchan. Winnie’s perfect day would include chasing her squeaky tennis ball and eating peanut butter flavored treats covered in pieces of chicken.

IF SHEHAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HER, IT WOULD BE Winnie the Pooch Corgi,

Grumbling Through the Day

MOISHE THE 9-YEAR-OLD SHIH TZU RESCUE

According to owner Iris Starr, Moshie is the true hero in this pet story. “He was a rescue, but I think he rescued me,” says Starr. His perfect day would be filled with naps, sleeping as close to Starr as possible.

IF SHE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HER, IT WOULD BE The World of Moishe

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ALEXICON THE 12-YEAR-OLD DACHSHUND WITH A PASSION FOR LAW

“Alexicon was adopted at birth from a trusted friend and has been one of the representatives of Bates-Buchanan & Savitsky Law Group at events and meetings with clients, as well as being a loving lap warmer at home,” says owner Dawn Marie Bates Buchanan.

“Alexi loves to come to work with me at Bates-Buchanan & Savitsky Law Group and likes to remind people why having a Pet Trust is so important. Alexi dresses up in her best dress for the office.”

IF SHE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HER, IT WOULD BE Why Having a Pet Trust

Is So Important to Keep Fur Babies Out of Kill Shelters

DJANGO

A SUPER-HERO AT 9-YEARS-OLD. BRINDLE BULLMASTIFF. Not pictured.

“Django is a superhero.He is a therapy dog working with the state attorney’s office and the Child Protection Center. He assists abused children when they have to give depositions, interviews and testimony against the person that abused them. He visits the children at the YMCA Youth Shelter and he attends many community events to bring attention to the need to protect our children. He continues his show career showing in the veterans class in AKC dog shows,” says owner Lucia Topp. IF HE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HIM, IT WOULD BE Therapy Dog Superheroes or The Magic is Real!

MISO THE 16-WEEK-OLD DOBERMAN PUPPY

This puppy is convinced he’s a cat. “Miso is a dog that acts like a cat thanks to his kitty brother. He will stalk like a cat at the dog park. The other dogs look at him like he’s crazy,” says owner Lauren Ditaranto. His perfect day would be spent rolling around, specifically in cat tail bushes.

Stick Connoisseurs: Testing the Worlds Most Natural Play Toy

IF HE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HIM, IT WOULD BE

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HUCK THE 3-YEAR OLD BROWN AND WHITE PORTUGESE WATER DOG

“We got Huck when he was just 8 weeks old and he has had the run of our house since,” says owner Morgan Tiefenthal. “My husband and I recently had our first child (7 weeks old this week) and Huck has become a big brother. All during my pregnancy he was glued to my side and rested on my tummy as I got bigger. Now that she has arrived he has gotten a quick education in newborn schedules (as have we). He no longer gets his uninterrupted beauty rest because of midnight feedings, his toys must be put away when not in use, and she gets her own bath time that does not include him. Despite all of these adjustments he has been a great big brother so far. He shares tummy time, looks forward to stealing her pacifier, and is always on guard in case the mailman comes unexpectedly.” Huck’s perfect day would include playing a long game of frisbee, taking a leisurely swim, stealing a pacifier or toy, tummy time and an afternoon nap. Huck loves having his ears rubbed! IF HE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HIM, IT WOULD BE The Adventures of Huck and Elizabeth: Who Stole the Pacifier

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JJ MCLOVIN THE 8-YEAR-OLD VERY FRIENDLY MINIATURE DONKEY

JJ McLovin is a friend of humans and horses. “JJ was bought at a yard sale to be a companion for a rescue horse. He has become a best friend to everyone who meets him! He’s never more than a few feet from his horse. He’s chased dogs, cows and other predators off. He’s only a little guy,but his heart is huge,” says owner Lynn Ouellette. While learning to halter JJ, Ouellette learned that his ticklish spot is in his ears.

LOTUS THE 2-YEAR-OLD AMERICAN STAFF MIX

There is no shortage of energy for two-yearold Lotus. “Lotus loves to run and chase things. She does 100-yard-dash chase events,” says owner Dale Barshinger. Her most ticklish spot is on her front paws and, “It’s tough to dry her paws when she’s muddy!”

IF SHE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HER, IT WOULD BE

Knucklodeon

IF HE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HIM,IT WOULD BE

McLovin Ranch

MOET THE POPCORN LOVING 2-YEAR-OLD BUFF TABBY

Moet would describe his perfect day as, “an approximate 4 am wake-up time for my mother via walking on her whilst sleeping, immediately getting kicked out of the bedroom, waiting anxiously at the door as I worry she’ll forget I exist and starve to death, finally getting fed at 7 am sharp, zoomies, snoozies, lovin’ for mom when she’s working from home, lots more snoozies and a panicked walk from 8-10 pm until exact feeding time. Many more zoomies and finally bedtime. Phew.” His mom, Sofie Wachtmeister says, “I think the weirdest thing about MoMo is that he is a fiend for SkinnyPop popcorn. So much so, that he knows exactly what the bag sounds like. He never confuses any other type of chip or snack bag with the sound of the SkinnyPop bag.

The second it is even touched, he has awoken from slumber and appeared by my side. He will steal it out of any bowl/bag/hand. Absolutely ruthless.”

IF HE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HIM, IT WOULD BE Hairballs & Hot Takes, a show about

the messes and cattitudes of a nine-part life

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IF HE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HIM, IT WOULD BE

The Grumpy Old Man: He Just Wants to Be Loved.

ROCKY THE 66-YEAR-OLD YELLOW NAPE AMAZON

MR. PINEAPPLES

“We adopted Rocky from the Birds of Paradise Sanctuary in Bradenton. Rocky lived with his original family for 44 years and then was left to another family member in her will. He lived with this new family for 16 years. Unfortunately, when this owner passed away there was no one to take Rocky and he ended up in the Sanctuary. As you can imagine, Rocky would rather be with a family and was a bit grumpy at first but is now thriving with us,” says owner Ed Suchora. According to Ed, Rocky’s most Ticklish spot is, “ His ear holes.

When you pet him near them it makes him yawn every time!”

THE FAMOUS 7-YEAR-OLD BLUE EXOTIC CAT

Miguel Elasmar, owner of Mr. Pineapples shares, “he had to get permission from my divorce attorney to spend $900 on an exotic kitten.” Mr. Pineapples is, “The only pet that responds to his name in a house full of dogs. [He] has 2000+ followers and will soon be an NFT.” His most ticklish spot is right behind the tail.

Elasmar says when he’s pet there, “he would start moving his mouth in a really weird way.”

IF HE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HIM, IT WOULD BE Kibbler’s

Buddies: a talent pet show hosted by Walther Kibblerthon Pineapples (his full name)

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CECE

THE 6-YEAR-OLD RESCUE BLUE PITBULL

Like many young pets, “Cece was adopted as a pandemic pup to give us something to do and to fill the void left behind by our previous pups who passed 2 years earlier. We rescued her from a shelter and she rescued our hearts,” says owner Rebecca Curry. She loves the pool, walks, car rides and snacks. “Cece is a rescue that spent the majority of her first four years of life in shelters. She was rescued from the county shelter euthenasia list by Satchels Last Resort who provided her with lots of extra love and training. We adopted her during the early days of the pandemic and now almost two years later, we couldn’t be happier with this sweet and goofy pupper that fills our days with her antics,” says Curry.

IF HE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HIM, IT WOULD BE

Land Hippos Need Love Too

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BENNY THE 2-YEAR-OLD HUMAN IMPERSONATOR. LABRADOODLE WOLFHOUND

Benny has an endless love for life. “Benny is obsessed with car rides—so much that he sits like a human in the front seat with his left arm on the center counsole,” says owner Karen Medford. If you scratch above his hip he may even start doing bicycle kicks in enjoyment.

IF HE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HIM, IT WOULD BE Take Me With You

FINN

THE 5-YEAR-OLD ICE CREAM LOVING MUNCHKIN Not pictured.

“I have always thought munchkin cats were really cute and have always dreamt of owning one. When I came across Finn on a Facebook page for munchkin cats, I knew I had to have her. She was the smallest, most vocal kitten in her litter,” says owner Stephanie Kent. “When I first brought Finn home, she was so small she could fit in a drinking glass. Despite her size and short legs, she took on every adventure including jumping on top of cabinets, drinking and playing in the sink, and going for walks around the neighborhood on her leash. My neighbors would always stop and stare because of her size and small stature. While she has grown (in the weight department, not height), she is still just as sweet and vocal as she was when I first brought her home five years ago. She loves to sit on the side of the bathtub while I bathe, share my cake batter ice cream with me, and loves sitting in the window to explore the outdoors! They say dogs are a girl’s best friend, but I think munchkin cats take the cake!”

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STELLA THE 2-YEAR-OLD DACHSHUND LABRADOR MIX RESCUE

Stella came into owner Meghan Coughlin’s life at the perfect time. “When my daughter was a newborn we lost my first dog. Then, when she was two, we lost the other dog. That same day I decided to take her to Nate’s ‘just to look’. We ended up adopting Stella, who along with her four siblings were left in a box by a dumpster. She was supposed to be a ‘Lab mix’. A horrible day turned into one of the best days because we brought our Stella home.

So my daughter would say, “Oli got sick, but we got a new puppy!” It was all I could think to do to distract her and myself from losing one of our best friends.

Stella is now two and about 25 lbs. I would say she is definitely more Dachshund than Lab. We love her so much and she is my daughter’s best friend. She has brought so much love and happiness into our life.

I am so thankful we adopted her that day. We are forever grateful to her foster mama and to Nate’s Honor Rescue for our best friend,” says Coughlin.

INDIGO

THE 5-YEAR-OLD DOG WITH A JOB. WEISZLA (A MIX BETWEEN WEIMARANER AND VIZSLA)

Tre Michel has found the perfect assistant. “Indigo has been the greeter at our gallery since she was eight weeks old. And she takes her job very seriously. Greeting the ‘hoomans’ and other four-leggers—at 2:30pm her job description changes from the greeter to the bouncer, as she spreads out for a nap at our front door in the sun to take her daily sunbath. On her days off when she is at camp, she has visitors that pop in and ask where she is,” says Michel. IF SHE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HER, IT WOULD BE DIVA

IF SHE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HER, IT WOULD BE

The Adventures of Emersyn & Stella

REO

THE 5-YEAR-OLD LOVER OF ALL

THINGS SUMMER. A SEVEN-BREED MIX

Reo is, “a big dog in a small dog’s body,” says owner Sarah Giblin. “Reo loves all things summer and boats. Whenever we go, he’s the first one on in search of birds so he usually goes to the roof. He also loves fishing and when he hears the line cast he barks until we catch a fish and we let him bring it aboard. He definitely doesn’t smell wonderful after but has the best time.” IF HE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HIM, IT WOULD BE Reo’s in Charge 38 | srq magazine_ MAY/JUNE22 live local

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LOCAL PERFORMING AND VISUAL ARTS+CULTURE

culture city DESTRUCTION AND RENEWAL

Daniel Lind-Ramos pays homage to the strength and resiliency of his native Puerto Rico with three assemblages created from reclaimed objects he collected in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. Dylan Campbell | Photo by Wyatt Kostygan

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IF YOU WERE ASKED TO CATALOG YOUR LIFE INTO A SERIES OF OBJECTS, COULD YOU? What pieces of your childhood would you bring along, what talisman could you confidently hold up as a personification of all that you are? It’s a difficult decision, because objects, almost inherently, carry meaning. Some carry more than others. Some don’t carry any at all until one day, they finally do. How do you make that choice? For Puerto Rican artist, Daniel Lind-Ramos, that choice was made for him on September 20th, 2017, when Hurricane Maria made landfall on Puerto Rico.

This page: Artist Daniel Lind-Ramos uses found objects to create assemblages reminiscent of the experiences and spirit of his Puerto Rican community.

It was made for him during the ensuing 84 days spent without power, cut off completely from the outside world, while his own descended into chaos. It was made for him while he waded chest-deep through the flooded streets in his hometown of Loiza, sifting through the wreckage of the storm. “In the middle of the night, while the hurricane was at its worst, we had heard through the radio that people here needed to abandon the area because of the flooding.

The next morning, I was wondering how my studio would look as I was wading through the water — I saw an object floating nearby and I took it,” Daniel says.

That object, a boat propeller, along with blue FEMA Tarps, palm tree fronds and coconut shells, became touchstones for the experience Daniel and his community had in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria.

Daniel did not choose the objects that define him, yet even still, he’s chosen to share them with us. Las Tres Marias, will feature three assemblages created from natural and manufactured materials, collected in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, that bring to light the impact the storm had on Puerto Rico. Daniel introduced the series at the 2019 Whitney Biennial, with his sculpture Maria-Maria, after which the Sarasota Art Museum first connected with him and in the ensuing years, came to this exhibit.

“At first glance these found objects might look like miscellaneous elements that are part of a sculpture, they’re meant to bring a physical presence to a lot of the experiences and memories that the majority of us didn’t live through with the devastation of Hurricane Maria. They beautifully make something immaterial, like a memory, real in a space that we can reflect on now,” says Emory Conetta, assistant curator at Sarasota Art Museum.

Las Tres Marías will feature an existing work, Maria de los Sustenos, in addition to two assemblages created specifically for this exhibition, Bano de Maria and Maria Guabancex. Although the exhibition was originally slated to showcase just Maria de los Sustenos, the natural light and spacious layout of the museum’s Tower Gallery prompted SAM to propose the idea of two additional works to Daniel. “The best part of being a contemporary museum is that we get to work with living artists,” says Conetta.

Daniel, who had been mulling over these two specific works since 2018, jumped at the idea. In turn, each assemblage is constructed from different found objects and focuses on a different era of Puerto Rico — from the island’s indigenous roots and history of colonialism to its position in the modern world.

Bano de Maria or the Bath of Mary is a relief that features the first object Daniel collected in the hurricane’s wake—a boat propeller, floating alongside him in the flood waters of Loiza—at its top and a water basin at the foot of the assemblage. “The water was almost above my chest when I found it,” says Daniel. The assemblage focuses on water — not just on the ocean’s torrential flooding, but also water as a pathway of changing existences. Just like the majority of hurricanes that hit Puerto Rico, the majority of slaves that came to the island also came from West Africa. srq magazine_ MAY/JUNE22 live local | 41

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culture city

the problem of homes that are built and do not survive the hurricane or houses that are built in places that aren’t supposed to be built, all came into play,” says Daniel. “I wanted to use new materials and old materials to illustrate the fact that the hurricane doesn’t discriminate — it can destroy all in its path.”

Maria de los Sustentos or Mary of Sustenance is another relief sculpture. This work commemorates how the people of Puerto Rico sustained themselves after the hurricane—how they survived, healed, and relied on one another for support. The main part the body is made out of a fishing net as many started catching their own fish during the power blackout. “We had no electricity, we had no water, so we had to start again with fire. You had to gather firewood and cook and fish for food from the river,” says Daniel. “It made us realize that we need to be with others, that’s the most important thing we can do after a disaster. I tried to build with that feeling.”

The very name of the exhibition, Las Tres Marías or the three Mary’s, seeks to examine another prevalent aspect of Puerto Rican culture—Catholicism. The cultural identity of the Virgin Mary, long seen as a figure of healing, protection and sustenance, now bore the same name as the most destructive storm in the island’s history. “Most of my neighbors, the roofs of their houses, disappeared after the hurricane. In time, you saw all of their roofs covered in blue tarps—you have Maria protecting and Maria destroying. It was an interesting dichotomy. Before Maria became a hurricane, it was an image of mother, protection, sustenance — even after the hurricane, you had those two feelings,” says Daniel.

Perhaps by repackaging the destruction that Hurricane Maria brought to his home into the form of a holy figure, Daniel can turn disaster into beauty. He can bring awareness to a tragedy, honor to the past,and healing to his community. He can share with the world the objects that at one time, were resemblant of heartbreak and chaos, but now are a symbol of the resiliency of his home. SRQ This page: Las Tres

The title of the work also directly implies the warming or heating of water — the increasing temperatures of the ocean being the main contributor to the increased size and frequency of hurricanes. “Having just been struck by two hurricanes, Irma and Maria, I was thinking about global warming and the consequences of such. The name, Bano de Maria, paid homage to that: Maria—the mother of Jesus, Hurricane Maria—the destructor, and Maria the Jewess—the inventor of the double boiler, an apparatus used for heating water,” attests Daniel.

The other assemblage made specifically for the exhibition, Maria Guabancex, is in the round and addresses both Daniel’s personal history and the island’s indigenous history with hurricanes. The title is in reference to the Taino deity, Guabancex, who the Taino believed to be responsible for punishing them with the brutal storms. The assemblage uses palm fronds as a reference to the barraca, a type of structure where Daniel weathered storms as a young boy. Debris from the pieces of his neighbor’s home—a blue FEMA tarp, corrugated metal and plastic—depict the moden destructive power of hurricanes and shoes under the assemblage pay homage to those who lost their lives in Hurricane Maria. “The name given by indigenous people, my first memories of surviving hurricanes, and

Marias will be on display at the Sarasota Art Museum through August 7th, 2022 at the Sarasota Art Museum.

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THE FABULOUS OHS

Through her parent’s toil, a daughter realizes her dream. Dylan Campbell

This page:

Composers Sharon and David Ohrenstein, who performed for years as the traveling showtunes duo “The Fabulous Ohs”, have dedicated their lives to the performing arts.

“YOU HAVE TO DO IT OR YOUR SOUL DIES,” SAYS SHARON OHRENSTEIN, in her daughter’s—award-winning Sarasota film-maker

Kathryn Parks—new documentary The Fabulous Ohs, the Marriage and the Music. The documentary chronicles the marriage and career of her parents, Sharon and David Ohrenstein—a sometimes unsteady, but doubtlessly magical life spent chasing a career in the performing arts. Throughout Parks’ childhood, the Ohrenstein family lived frugally, often without health insurance for Sharon or David. Steady gigs necessitated travel—school years in Sarasota were cut short to make room for summer’s spent playing in Upstate New York. “We tried to make the most amount of money with the least amount of time spent outside of the house,” says Sharon.

The Ohrensteins met in Sarasota, where David was working as a part-time composer and concert pianist and Sharon as an actress and singer. A whirlwind romance led to a marriage in which both initially played their own separate shows—until a one-off concert performed in tandem, with Sharon on the microphone and David on the piano, was their most successful gig yet. That inspired a career as a traveling act, performing numbers from Broadway and historical musicals, carving out a career in the arts. The pair spent nearly two decades performing, eventually being dubbed “The Fabulous Ohs” by an agent in Toronto, before transitioning to writing and composing musicals and operas—a long-time dream of Sharon’s.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY WYATT KOSTYGAN.

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culture city “It definitely sculpted me into who I am today— I’m a singer, an actor and a writer,” says Parks of her upbringing. “It’s made me really commit to a life in the arts, but at the same time I’ve taken a little bit of a different path. I’ve always worked full-time as well.”

The inspiration to tell her parents’ story struck Parks after viewing a similarly focused short film composed of old home videos at the Dunedin Film Festival. While Parks didn’t have dozens of home videos of her parents to sift through, she had something much better: a treasure trove of old VHS tapes of her parents concerts, gigs and original performances. “The process of watching them through the years brought me so much joy. Going back and seeing it now, I just have so much more respect for their level of professionalism and joy they had in creating their work. I have so much pride with what they’ve done. It was like falling in love with them all over again,” says Parks.

The documentary intertwines excerpts of the archived tapes with footage of Parks’ own interviews that she shot with her parents. Directed, edited and produced by Parks, the project — by far the largest yet of her career — took around nine months to complete.

“In going through footage of our interviews, I needed to watch them 2-3 times before it really connected. I was trying so many different things and nothing really worked—it was a lot of trial and error,” admits Parks.

Her efforts will make their world premiere at the 2022 Sarasota Film Festival this April. In telling the inspiring story of her parents’ careers and the gifts they gave to her—a passion to chase what feeds her soul — Parks’ efforts will not be for naught.

“The Fabulous Ohs” speaks to the resiliency and willpower Sharon and David had to make a decision to chase their dreams and never squelch their creative spirit. It’s a sentiment that’s echoed throughout the vibrant artist communities in cities like Sarasota, far away from the art meccas of New York and Los Angeles.

“I wanted people, regardless of their age, to see that they can accomplish anything they want to,” says Parks.

“My parents are getting older, yet they still have these dreams and I wanted to give them that pedestal. Anyone as an artist can take away that message.” SRQ

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY WYATT KOSTYGAN.

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BOUTIQUE SHOPPING, HOME DESIGN, ARCHITECTURE AND TRENDS

ALL ABOUT MOM & DAD Compiled by Arianna Boenker

FOR MOM Amavida Roasters Ethiopia Sidama 12oz Bag, $18; Bulles Gaspard Sparkling Rosé, $25; Ritual Chocolate Honeycomb Toffee, $10; Wine Unfiltered by Katherine Clary, $18; Artisan Cheese Company, 550 Central Ave, Sarasota, 941-951-7860, artisancheesecompany.com, cheese@artisancheesecompany.com. Floral Bucket Hat, $9.99; All About Fishing, 1115 South Tamiami Trl., Sarasota, 941-955-7288, allaboutfishingsarasotafl.com. Mint Basil Single Wick Candle, $29; Blueberry Black Tea Time Trio, $28; Spice and Tea Exchange, 45 St Armands Cir, Sarasota, 941-388-1411, spiceandtea.com, p.callender@spiceandtea.com. Pineapple Charm Hoop Earring, $29.50; Maui Mango Scented Soap, $12.50; Tommy Bahama, 371 St Armands Cir, Sarasota, 941-388-2446, tommybahama.com. Mont Gravet Rosé, $10; François Montand Brut Rosé, $17; 99 Bottles Taproom & Bottle Shop, 1445 2nd St, Sarasota, 941-487-7874, 99bottles. net, info@99bottles.net. Stance Socks, Katya Crew, $15; Compound Boardshop, 3604 S Osprey Ave, Sarasota, 941-552-9805, compoundboardshop.com, @compoundboardshop.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WYATT KOSTYGAN.

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FOR DAD Signature Series 7-8 Fly Fishing Reel, Black and Aqua, $785; Nomadix Copacabana Towel, $40; Compound Boardshop, 3604 S Osprey Ave, Sarasota, 941-552-9805, compoundboardshop.com, @compoundboardshop. Campanula Blue Plasmatic Socks, $14; Maritime Coffret 3 Pack Cologne Set, $65; Tommy Bahama, 371 St Armands Cir, Sarasota, 941-3882446, tommybahama.com. Distinctive Headwear Florida Hat, $15; Polarized Sunglasses, $20; All About Fishing, 1115 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 941-955-7288, allaboutfishingsarasotafl. com. Party Dip 4 Tin Gift Set, $56; Spice and Tea Exchange, 45 St Armands Cir, Sarasota, 941-388-1411, spiceandtea.com. uKeg GO, 128oz. double walled, vacuum insulated, stainless steel portable draft beer system, $150; Fill price starts at $10; 99 Bottles Taproom & Bottle Shop,1445 2nd St, Sarasota, 941-487-7874, 99bottles.net, info@99bottles.net.

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SURGE STYLE

a youthful, elevated version of self-love meets beach-chic.

FROM A YOUNG AGE, Chloe Canterbury knew she

would have a career in fashion. Sketchbooks full of clothing designs, handmade outfits for dolls and athome fashion shows dressing her sister’s friends in her artistic visions set the stage for a lifetime of style. When Canterbury’s grandmother taught her how to sew bean bags at just seven years old, she became enthralled by the idea of design, realizing she could create anything she wanted with her hands, her imagination and some fabric.

Canterbury has since spent her adult life furthering her education within the fashion industry. After earning her degree in fashion merchandising from Kent State University, the Sarasota local began her professional career in fashion. Her list of experience has grown from her first job at Hollister Co., to employment in New York City working for Kleinfeld Bridal and experience with designer handbags and clothing at Micheal Kors in Sarasota.

“The times I took the biggest leaps of faith were when I surprised myself the most,” says Canterbury. Following her own sage advice, she pursued her childhood dream.

Sewing together her years of experience, she now owns her own boutique in the heart of Downtown Sarasota. Surge Style helps the growing population of young folks moving to our tropical, beachy city 52 | srq magazine_ MAY/JUNE22 live local

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Arianna Boenker

outfit themselves for every occasion. “What inspired me when remodeling and decorating the store was a beachy Tulum vibe,” says Canterbury. The boutique is also decorated with messages of self-love that reflect Canterbury’s personal beliefs of spreading positivity and encouraging customers to feel confident. Quotes like, “Feel the fear and do it anyway” and “It’s a good day to have a good day” decorate the walls and mirrors.

“I wanted my boutique to have a warm and welcoming, minimalistic but chic feel.”

Clothes from Bali, LA, Australia and New York provide shoppers with beach-ready attire that can be styled for a day in the sand or a night on the town.

Canterbury spends her days sourcing new pieces from around the world, unboxing new merchandise to display and helping customers find the perfect pieces to feel happy and beautiful wearing. “My biggest goal for the store is to bring trendy, affordable fashion from all around the world, here to Sarasota, Florida,” she says.

And as Sarasota’s population grows to incorporates more young consumers, Canterbury hopes to grow her business along the way. Expanding into a larger storefront or acquiring a second location may be on the horizon for Surge Style. SRQ

This page:

Canterbury models her boutique’s bright pieces as she eagerly greets customers.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WYATT KOSTYGAN.

4/13/22 12:46 PM

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S R Q M A G A Z I N E | S P E C I A L B R A N D E D C O N T E N T F E AT U R E | M AY/ J U N E 2 0 2 2

2022 SRQ MAGAZINE

ELITE REAL E S TAT E A G E N T S M A R I A N N E L E B A R / C O L D W E L L B A N K E R R E A LT Y S U S I E P O R T E R / P A R A D I S E E X C L U S I V E R E A L E S TAT E V I C T O R I A S T U LT Z / E N G E L & V Ö L K E R S F L O R I D A a l e x i s z i b o l i s / C O L D W E L L B A N K E R R E A LT Y

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2022 ELITE AGENTS

MARIANNE LeBAR Passion, professionalism and integrity are the hallmarks of Marianne LeBar’s over 25 years in real estate. Since first earning her license in Philadelphia and ultimately becoming a Broker-Associate in Sarasota, Marianne has established herself as a trusted professional who provides a concierge style experience to achieve the goals of her customers.

MARIANNE LEBAR has lived in Sarasota since 1989, giving her a truly in-depth knowledge of the area. She has navigated the real estate market at both its best and most challenging of times, cultivating a highly responsive and sophisticated level of expertise. Marianne was a former Broker/owner of her own real estate company, which she oversaw while building and investing in several homes located in Sarasota’s coveted West of Trail area. She transitioned to real estate in 2002 where she has consistently been a top producing agent.

Marianne specializes in all areas of Sarasota and Manatee counties, but particularly enjoys the vibe and energy that come from the downtown high-rises, the sun and sand of the surrounding beaches as well as the historic qualities of West of Trail. She also enjoys time with her equestrian clients who enjoy playing polo and the laid-back country lifestyle of Lakewood Ranch.

Marianne has devoted many years traveling with both her National Association of Realtors and Florida Realtors, advancing her real estate knowledge by earning multiple professional real estate designations, including the Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) and Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS). She is the current District Vice President for the Florida Council of Residential Specialists (CRS) Marianne enjoys her Sarasota lifestyle with her husband and two children, who were born and raised in Sarasota.

You will find her doing all things outdoors including running, swimming, biking and dog walking.

Marianne LeBar Broker Associate Coldwell Banker Realty c: 941.650.0337 e: Marianne.LeBar@cbrealty.com

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2022 ELITE AGENTS

SUSIE PORTER Susie has been a resident of southwest Florida for nearly 40 years, growing up in Sarasota and graduating from Riverview High School in 1986. For the last twenty years or so though she has called Englewood her home. “I love sharing my passion for the region with others, helping buyers and sellers to discover their perfect home.”

I believe the key to a successful real estate expe-

rience is “listening” – building a relationship and working hard to provide service that is professional, prompt, and fulfills even the unexpressed wishes of my clients. I enjoy everything “Englewood”... when someone asks me if I could live anywhere in the world where would it be . . . I simply say - I already live there!” Real Estate is about the client – and my slogan has always been “Providing exceptional service, because YOUR real estate success is my passion.”

Paradise Exclusive: As one of the most successful Boutique Real Estate Brokerages in the region, Paradise Exclusive’s Associates pride themselves on recognizing the desires of their clients, communicating effectively, negotiating aggressively and ultimately closing the deal. We are members of the following Associations: Englewood Area Board of Realtors,The REALTORS® of Punta Gorda-Port Charlotte-North Port-DeSoto, Inc., Royal Palm Coast Realtor® Association and The MIAMI Association of Realtors.

With over $445 Million in closed sales for 2021, we are the #1 brokerage at the Englewood Area Board of Realtors. There’s no gimmicks or lack of efforts, when it comes to listing or buying property with Paradise Exclusive.

Pride in our community is must for us. We give countless hours and significant financial contributions to the communities we live in and the organizations who provide necessary services to our residents, businesses and visitors.

Susie Porter PA ILHM, PSA, Realtor® c: 941.468.4955 Paradise Exclusive Real Estate 8300 Wiltshire Drive, Port Charlotte, FL 33981 HomesOfManasotaKey.com

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2022 ELITE AGENTS

VICTORIA STULTZ Engel & Völkers Florida is expanding in Southwest Florida with Engel & Völkers Venice Downtown and Engel & Völkers Sarasota; marking the brand’s fifth and sixth locations in the region. Local market expert, Victoria Stultz will lead the new brokerage as License Partner and Broker.

Victoria Stultz Engel & Völkers Florida c: 941.387-5676 o: 941.388.9800 e: Victoria.Stultz@EVRealEstate.com victoriastultz.evrealestate.com

Originally from Boston, Victoria STULTZ

started out her career working in sales for a Fortune 500 company in Cincinnati before shifting into real estate with a distinguished brokerage. Since that transition over 22 years ago, she has established herself as a leader in her chosen industry, one who has been recognized with the Five-Star Professional Award for 13 years in a row, and who has garnered over $150 million in sales volume and over 350 closed transactions. Among the many credentials she has earned, Victoria has been awarded designations such as the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), awarded to only 1.5 % of agents nationwide, and the Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS), an achievement that is recognized as the hallmark of accomplishment in luxury markets around the world. Her enthusiasm for creating beauty in her workspace to her skill and solid business experience contributes to her success. Just as importantly, however, her vibrant personality and her style of daily communication with everyone she engages is commanding and inviting. Understanding that real estate is a relationship business, Victoria believes in offering a white-glove concierge service with a bespoke approach.

Corporate relocation is also part of her portfolio, successfully transitioning businesses such as manufacturing, hospitals, medical groups, and professional athletes.

ENGEL & VöLKERS is a global luxury real estate brand that delivers a fresh approach to luxury real estate with a focus on creating a personalized client experience at every stage of the home buying or selling process. Engel & Völkers currently operates approximately 260 shop locations with 5,000 real estate advisors in the Americas, contributing to the brand’s global network of over 15,000 real estate professionals in more than 31 countries, offering clients a professionally tailored range of luxury services, including real estate, yachting and aviation. For more information, contact Victoria Stultz at 941.388.9800 or email at Victoria.Stultz@EVRealEstate.com.

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2022 ELITE AGENTS

alexis zibolis Dedicated to excellence, Alexis Zibolis holds the distinction of Coldwell Banker’s Top 100 agents in Florida and is one of the top Listing Agents in Sarasota and surrounding areas.

With over $45 million in sales last year alone, Alexis’ clients choose to work with her because of her attention to detail, unmatched ethics, professionalism, unparalleled marketing skills, experience, and her “down to earth” disposition. Compared to the competition last year, Alexis closed on 9 more listings than any other listing agent in the area, and sold her listings for 5% more on average. With these impressive stats, Alexis consistently demonstrates her ability to exceed client expectations. Her listings sell faster and for more money because she understands the individuality of each listing and how to make them stand out above the competition. Her marketing plans are tailored to fit each listing and to highlight the distinctiveness of every detail including design and staging. She is able to anticipate the ebb and flow of the area’s market to plan and guide her sellers accordingly. Her knowledge about the area, communities, and the constantly fluctuating market help her buyers to make informed decisions.

Because of Alexis’ concierge approach, unique strategies, cutting edge approach, and innovative marketing style, she has become the area’s “go to” luxury agent.

Her uncompromising commitment to her clients’ needs makes her truly unique and the ideal person to assist in buying or selling your next home.

Alexis Zibolis, Realtor® Coldwell Banker Realty Lic#: SL3371142 8334 Market Street Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 c: 941.725.3060 e: Alexis@ZibolisGroup.com ZibolisGroup.com

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forage LOCAL EPICUREAN ADVENTURES AT THE TABLE

ART OF THE UNDERSELL

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COLD PORK. GNOCCHI. CABBAGE SALAD. FRIED POTATOES. The way Meliora names its dishes, one could mistake them for the titles of paintings from some laconic artist’s latest still life series. Or, perhaps a bit closer to the truth, co-owner and executive chef Drew Adams was too deep down the rabbit hole, too utterly fixated in search of the sublime, that he simply couldn’t be bothered coming up with something more descriptive than each dish’s working title. By the time a diner digs into one of the restaurant’s plates, both assertions seem plausible. Written by Andrew Fabian

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WYATT KOSTYGAN.

4/13/22 12:48 PM

Left to right: A tuna sashimi plate features sushi-grade tuna dry-aged in house.

A commitment to seasonality means this earthy beet salad is available through early Spring. A refreshingly surprising blend of housemade strawberry syrup, burnt lemon, vanilla meringue and polenta make this dessert more than a sweet treat.

The new restaurant on Hillview—co-owned

by Washington D.C. transplants Chef Adams and longtime friend/associate Bruce Pike—brings an extraordinary level of artistry into the flavor profile and presentation of their New American tapas-style menu, a tweezer-wielding approach to perfection that is as playfully obfuscated by the unassuming verbiage of the menu as the understated décor. Inside, a simple palette of dark blue and minimalist fixtures, with here and there an accent color or framed illustrations of fishes, serves as a comfortable but unobtrusive backdrop for an ambitious body of work.

That body of work—and an introduction to a recurring theme of using locally sourced product— might begin with something from their cold selections like the ricotta with seasonal vegetables.

The vegetables come from a cross section of farms in the region and in spring might include wild carrots, radishes, purple and yellow cauliflower, edible flowers and Romanesco, the latter striking with its fractals. In the center of it all, a bowl of whipped ricotta cheese seasoned heavily with dill. The vegetables are halved or quartered, with a light spritz of white balsamic and a pinch of salt. Plated with an eye for composition and color, it’s a simple, shareable appetizer that celebrates organic farming as much as it does culinary arts.

The cold pork impresses with a balance of sweet, savory and a touch of spice in the form of chili oil. Based on a Szechuan dish, it features ground pork cooked in a soy, fish sauce and sesame base. Served with verdant romaine lettuce leaves from Homestead Hydroponic farm, these cold pork lettuce wraps are best enjoyed with a drizzle of the spicy chili oil, which cuts through the pork with just the right amount of heat. The dish thrives as a shareable plate much like the vegetable platter.

A beet salad further establishes the visual panache of the menu. Listed on the “warm” half of the menu, it comes with a creamy whipped goat cheese at the base, as well as grilled avocado and Italian vin.

Characteristically earthy and surprisingly dense,

the dish’s “wow” moment comes courtesy of its presentation, which sees the whole plate sculpted into something of an abstract homage to the color purple.

For co-owner Bruce Pike, who manages the front of house, dishes like the vegetable platter, cold pork or beet salad make his job of securing positive feedback a simple one. But as the menu gets into the more ambitious platings, the ones that showcase Adams’ impressive experience in prestigious D.C.area kitchens—including three Michelin-starred restaurants—diners might find themselves lost in a trance of pure culinary pleasure. And the path to that pleasure is paved with Meliora’s carbonara.

Historically made as a peasant food, a traditional carbonara maximizes the calories-to-cost ratio with copious amounts of cheese, egg and pork fat. What Meliora has done with its take on the dish is elevate it with rarified ingredients, namely duck eggs. Slightly larger than chicken eggs, duck eggs also contain a bit more fat and a more intense, creamy texture. That means a smaller serving of duck eggs packs more egginess into less space. Finished with shavings of cured duck egg, Chef Adams also smokes the dish’s guanciale in house for 24 hours, which combines with the dash of black pepper to turn this decidedly un-peasantly preparation into something more. Rich, smokey, peppery, exploding with umami—the carbonara induces the kind of closedeye experience reserved for moments of bliss.

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Another of Chef Adams’ masterpieces—one that was 14 years in the making according to Adams—is the scallop crudo. The dish centers on thinly sliced pieces of raw scallop garnished with a bit of chive and basil, including the little basil flowers. The final flourish includes a pour of warm scallop cream. As for flavor profile, the small dish expresses rather loudly an allusion to the rich chowders of Adams’ and Pike’s Mid-Atlantic roots, with a potent first wave of brine accenting a steady tide of creaminess.

The drink menu, which rotates as frequently as the food, features an eclectic assortment of craft cocktails from the imagination of Topher Nalefski, who the mixologically inclined might know well from his successful run at State Street Eating House and Cocktails. If Nalefski hasn’t already departed too far from the time traveler’s wife, his take on a negroni, a thirsty diner might enjoy the dash of black pepper, splash of sparkling water and sprig of mint. Less bitter than a traditional negroni, the cocktail nonetheless warrants a moderate sipping pace.

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diner filled to the brim. This leaves just enough room for dessert, which at Meliora means the food starts to look increasingly like works of art. A plating of frozen white polenta pipings with delicate vanilla meringue discs between them comes drizzled with strawberry syrup, then embellished with buttermilk drops. The buttermilk remains separate from the syrup, giving the dessert its spotted look. More importantly, the immense amount of sweetness never dominates what is a broad and balanced cornucopia of flavors.

Those lucky enough to be invited to the custom wood slab counter that is the chef’s table overlooking the kitchen, will find themselves feeling almost like they’ve stepped into some prolific artist’s studio. As Chef Adams roams his kitchen, he ponders a sauce pan here, deliberates over a stock pot there, grabs his tweezers and toils over a garnish the way a painter might agonize over the way light reflects off their subject’s eye. In Meliora’s seemingly simple dishes, we find great imagination and technique, a mastery of the tried and true with an eye for the new and bold. Indeed, we find great artistic skill, none more refined than the art of the undersell. SRQ

Clockwise: A creamy gnocchi comes topped with brown butter. The sheepshead special sees Chef Adams experiment with new fish. Understated decor serves as a blank canvas for beautiful platings. Meliora, 1920 Hillview Street, Sarasota, 941-444-7692, meliorarestaurant.com, @meliorarestaurant

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WYATT KOSTYGAN.

4/13/22 12:54 PM

In

MAY/JUNE 2022 EDITION

Conversation

DR. CAROL PROBSTFELD, STATE COLLEGE OF FLORIDA, MANATEE SARASOTA

WHAT IS AT STAKE THROUGH THE LEGISLATIVE PROCESS FOR YOUR COLLEGE? It’s a very big time of the year for us. This year, there was a big statute about accreditation that is going to impact educational institutions. Hopefully, we’re coming out well out of this legislative session, so we’re excited about that. College is doing well, students now are thriving and they’re coming back. We’re not at our pre-pandemic numbers yet, but it’s looking hopeful as we go forward. So it’s good. One of the things we’re really excited about is this performance funding for nursing because nursing is our strong suit, has been for a while.

We stand to do very well through that process. There are not enough nurses. And not only are we looking to create new nurses, but we’re working on a plan that would help nurses who maybe retired or let their license expire to get re-certified and get back in the game. So we’re trying to attack it from both ends.

IN CONVERSATION WITH DR. CAROL PROBSTFELD ON INNOVATION IN EDUCATION AND LEANING INTO THE FUTURE. INTERVIEWED BY WES ROBERTS | EDITED BY BARBIE HEIT

YOU KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE GROWTH OF THE STATE AS A WHOLE AND CERTAINLY OUR REGION. WHAT ARE YOU SEEING IN TERMS OF PEOPLE RELOCATING HERE? We’re monitoring the high school enrollments, for example. We monitor the demographic changes in our community. We do know that we have great opportunity to expand our enrollment of students right out of high school because those numbers will be increasing. We know our Hispanic population is growing significantly, we also know that our South County region, which would be in the North Port, South Sarasota County, is a fast growing area. So we have initiatives this year, for example, specifically targeting South Sarasota County for enrollment and also identifying high schools where we think we have the greatest probability of attracting students. And that’s on the traditional side. Then of course, we have our adult student population as well.

WHAT ABOUT THE OUTREACH TO MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOLS? We have children on our campus that are as young as first grade who are participating in our coding camps. We started the coding camps last summer. So we have children in elementary, middle, and high school that are participating in that. We have our own collegiate school on our Bradenton campus where we have middle school and high school children. And then on our Venice campus, we also have a collegiate school where we have high school students. In those collegiate schools, the goal is by the time they’re in the 11th and 12th grade, they’re dual enrolled on the college campus. So when they graduate with their high school diploma they’ll also be graduating with their two year AA degree.

IS THERE A BOOK OR A PODCAST THAT’S GOT YOUR ATTENTION RIGHT NOW ABOUT EDUCATION? Actually, when it

comes to my own professional development, I attend a lot of seminars, I listen to a lot of information, but to be perfectly honest, where I get my greatest intel is walking out on campus and talking to students, understanding what they need, what they want, what we can do to help them become successful.

They’re going to tell us straight up and with that, we can use our own ingenuity to come up with some interesting strategies. And also I’m very lucky. I think if I’ve done something well, it’s, I’ve hired really outstanding staff and faculty, and they’re always out learning what’s state of the art, what’s working at other institutions, and then trying to figure out how we can adapt some of those things to the State College of Florida.

WHAT IS THE MAKEUP OF YOUR STUDENT BODY? We have an incredibly diverse student body. Our Hispanic population exceeds the percentage of Hispanic people in our two-county region. Our Black

ENGAGING READERS THROUGH STORYTELLING.

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IN C O NVERSAT I ON

ABOUT THE PARTICIPANT DR. CAROL PROBSTFELD Dr. Carol F. Probstfeld is the sixth president of State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota.

She has served in this role since January, 2013. Established in 1957, SCF is the area’s oldest and largest public college with more than 50,000 graduates.

population, same thing. So we’re kind of that open access institution that welcomes everybody. We have students who are the third generation in their family coming to the State College of Florida and we have students who are the first in their family to ever come to college. So when you come to the State College of Florida, don’t be surprised, you see everybody from that sixth grader in our collegiate school to the 67-year-old person who wants to just stay engaged and sit in a biotech class to keep their mind involved.

HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF AS COMPARED TO OTHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS? I think what makes the State College of Florida unique is that we like to think of ourselves as everybody’s college. So whether you are experiencing college for the first time, right out of high school, we’re here for you. If you’re looking to change careers, we’re here for you. If you’re looking to take various classes that will help you accelerate in the career you’re in, we’re here for you. If you want to start a business, through our Entrepreneurship Center, we’re here for you. So we like to think of ourselves as that sort of one stop for people who are looking for a place where they can continue their education, regardless of where they are in that educational pathway, we’re here for them.

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WHAT ARE SOME OF THE AREAS OF STUDY THAT YOU’RE BEST KNOWN FOR AND WHAT ARE SOME OF THE NEW AREAS GENERATING EXCITEMENT? In general, we offer the two year AA or AS degrees, the four year BAS degrees and certificates. So it’s a number of different things, but our flagship program, as I said, is nursing. That’s been with us since the day we opened our doors. New programs that we’re starting are music production technology is coming online in the fall. We’re working on introducing two new baccalaureate degrees in education, elementary education and exceptional student education.

We’re working on also launching hospitality management in the fall. So it’s not the culinary aspect, it’s the management part of hospitality that we’re looking to launch.

And all of those are in response to requests that we’ve received from our partners out there in the workforce, through the EDCs, the chambers and employers. Business analytics is a really exciting one that we’re also looking to launch in the fall. And all of those so far have had a great number of interests from students as we’ve been recruiting for fall.

MUSIC PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY. WHAT CAUSED YOU TO FOCUS ON THAT NICHE? We would be the only institution in the Suncoast region that would be offering that. It is aimed at those individuals who have an interest in music, but are interested in the production thereof. So we have about a hundred students who participate in the music program.

Not all of them are looking to be part of performance or teaching.

This gives them another alternative to participate in the music industry, but through that music production aspect of it, whether it’s creating music videos, sound engineering, all of those things that go into producing music, whether it’s live or recorded.

DO YOU HAVE AN ANECDOTE FOR A STUDENT YOU’VE SPOKEN TO ABOUT YOUR PROGRAM OFFERINGS? One gentleman that I’ve been spending some time talking to lately, Nathan, is a music student and through his connection with the State College of Florida and our faculty, he’s been able to meet a number of other people in the music industry. And he has learned how to be a good composer. We’ve had him compose and conduct for us. And now he’s being commissioned to write music for other institutions in the area and, too, is being hired to conduct, which is really quite unusual for a two-year student to have that kind of experience and have that kind of success and expertise in this area.

ARE THERE SPECIALTIES FOR NURSES THAT ARE PART OF YOUR PROGRAM? One of the things that we’ve been able to do in our nursing program is incorporate telehealth. Not all programs have the opportunity to do that, but we’ve been very fortunate with support from some of our local grantors and funders to have equipment so we can work with our student nurses, so when they graduate with us, they have that experience, that capability. We have one of the best simulation centers in the state. So our nurses are able to simulate various scenarios that their counterparts may not have ever had the opportunity to do before they get out and practice in the field. But when you talk about surgical nursing or pediatric nursing or that sort of thing, that would come more in the field than it would in their two year AS nursing program.

TELL US HOW THE COLLEGE CONSORTIUM IS DOING. The Cross College Alliance is a consortium of five educational institutions in the region. It’s the State College of Florida, USF Sarasota-Manatee, Ringling School of

Art and Design, New College, and Florida State University at the Ringling Museum. And collectively what we do is create critical mass for our student bodies, so that they have a larger number of potential colleagues to work with when they partner on projects or to become familiar with in their professional capacities, when they graduate. We also create that opportunity for faculty so they can conduct research beyond their own institution with their own colleagues. So they can have a greater critical mass of, say, science faculty working together on projects. We also look at efficiencies that we can find together by sharing. We still have our cross-registration where students can take courses at another institution with no money changing hands from the students. We’re very pleased. We have a couple of things that we’re working on now with a special program about training students to be able to participate in internships with the arts community. We also have something in environmental science where students can do internships, paid internships, to be working on environmental science projects over the summer.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE LESSONS THAT HAVE BEEN LEARNED IN THE PANDEMIC THAT WILL STICK, THAT WILL CHANGE THINGS IN A POSITIVE FASHION? Well, I think obviously telehealth is one. We’ve started a new modality of instruction, which we call Go Live. So it’s a format similar to this in our platform called Teams where students can actually virtually be on with a faculty member and their classmates in this forum. So it’s a synchronous virtual experience versus the typical asynchronous online. That’s a new modality.

Students like that, so we’ll continue to do more of it. SRQ

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STORIES FROM OUR PHILANTHROPIC COMMUNITY

giving coast UNRELENTING KINDNESS What type of person dedicates her life to the care and wellbeing of people with disabilities?

A very special type of person.

One with a high level of patience, kindness, and desire to go above and beyond to make a difference.

A person like Nicole Murby.

Barbie Heit | Photo by Wyatt Kostygan

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giving coast WHEN SHE LANDED HER FIRST PROFESSIONAL JOB

as an aide in a high school for a student with autism, Nicole Murby fell in love with the profession. Later that year, she went on to become a speech-language pathologist, graduating from the University of New Hampshire with a Master’s Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. Nicole has been a SpeechLanguage Pathologist for the past 17 years and she’s been working with children and adults with disabilities for the past 26 years. Basically, her entire career has revolved around supporting people with disabilities, specializing in children with autism, developmental disabilities and severe communication disorders. “All children should be able to be in a learning environment where everyone has value, an environment where there is an understanding that we all have strengths and areas of challenge, an environment where everyone can teach and learn from one another,” she says.

Having two children with special needs herself, Nicole knows that being a parent of children with disabilities can be challenging both financially and emotionally. Gavin, her 10-year old son has autism and 14-year old daughter Grace has Noonan Syndrome (a genetic disorder that prevents normal development in various parts of the body)—both needing supervision most of the time.

Because of this, she has always wanted to do more for children and families affected by disabilities and has been instrumental in creating various parent support groups over the years. Nicole began her Florida career as a speech and language pathologist with the public school system of Manatee County where she stayed for four years. “The need for SLPs in the schools is staggering,” says Nicole. “But when an opportunity at Easterseals came, I knew it was a chance to make a bigger change.”

Starting as the Director of Therapy and a SpeechLanguage Pathologist, Nicole has worn lots of hats at Easterseals during her 15 years with the organization.

“Since 2007, we have started multiple programs including: The Lily School for Child Development, Behavioral Therapy, Elementary School, and The Autism Center for Excellence (psychology, mental health, case management for families),” shares Nicole. “Our organization has quadrupled in size and I have a great sense of pride over the work we have done.”

Nicole is constantly inspired to create a stronger, more visible community for people with disabilities and their families, and like all good parents, she finds this inspiration through her children. It is part of what has led her to create the award-winning preschool at Easterseals.

When Grace was an infant, Nicole reports that she was turned away from many preschools as they couldn’t meet her daughter’s medical and therapeutic PHOTOGRAPHY BY WYATT KOSTYGAN.

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needs. “It was fairly devastating financially as I could only work part-time and had to rely on family to watch her when I could work.” When Grace turned one, however, Nicole found the Selby Preschool at the Haven, a school that gave her daughter everything she needed—caring teachers and an amazing team of therapists. “As a parent, I wanted Grace to be in an environment that supported diversity, had the ability to meet her needs, but also to be with all children.”

Nicole knew that the same type of program was needed at Easterseals so she worked to make that happen, and much more.

Always composed and soft spoken, Nicole remains relentless and fierce in her advocacy for all families.

Kameron Hodgens, Director of Community Impact at Gulf Coast Community Foundation is a longtime colleague in the community who praises her friend and the work she does: “Nicole is a consummate human services professional. When working with families in need or with her Easterseals team members, she easily transitions between empathic mother and strong leader.

Her calming nature, even during times of pressure and stress, are a reminder to all that with clarity and heart, no problem is too large for a winning solution.”

“Hard things are put in our way, not to stop us, but to call on our courage and strength.” This quote hangs on her wall and is clearly a mantra for Nicole. “So many hard things come to pass in a lifetime,” she says. “It’s important to focus on moving positively forward and not get stuck in the problem.” Some of Nicole’s most memorable moments include watching her daughter learn to swim last year. “It just took the right teacher,” she says. “I was so proud of her and she is proud of herself every time she gets into the pool with no floaties. The power of independence and pride in her eyes is something that I will never forget.”

Professionally, Nicole is very proud to have put together a team of amazing professionals to start the Autism Center of Excellence. “The case management and counseling for families facing difficult roadblocks is life-changing and empowering,” she says. “Our diagnostic clinic provides life-long diagnoses for children and adults, and opens up much needed therapeutic, educational and employment services they didn’t have before.” SRQ In December 2021, Nicole Murby was honored as one of SRQ Magazine’s Good Heroes. “It’s a huge honor to be recognized as doing good work for our community,” she says. “It’s inspiring that creating an equitable environment for children and adults with disabilities is important and worth highlighting by SRQ Magazine.

It gives me a strong feeling of empowerment to do more.”

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Clockwise: Mote

Marine’s Science Education Aquarium; Venice Theatre renovation; Sarasota Performing Arts Center on The Bay; Asolo Repertory Theater’s Koski Center expansion; and, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota campus.

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Building On Vision

Five area nonprofits are embarking on brick-and-mortar expansions that will transform how their organizations serve our region.

Venice Theatre, the Van Wezel Foundation, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, the Asolo Repertory Theatre and Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium are all in the midst of immense, longterm capital campaigns. These projects—evolving rapidly due to community fundraising and generous donors—will allow the respective organizations to build greater capacity and stronger infrastructures for new, beneficial programs. Join us as they share their inside perspectives on what it’s like to undergo massive nonprofit transformations—from the growing pains to the growing local support. As Venice Theatre ushers in its “next act,” the Van Wezel Foundation prepares for a new Sarasota Performing Arts Center, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens “innovates for a greener future,” the Asolo Repertory Theatre “stages” its own future, and Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium works to make “oceans for all” a reality, the anticipation in Sarasota-Manatee continues to build. WRITTEN BY ABBY WEINGARTEN

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“The Next Act” for Venice Theatre As Venice Theatre—the second-largest community theater in the nation—embarked on its 70th season two years ago, it announced a $2.5-million expansion campaign. Known as “The Next Act,” the three-building transformation project now aspires to a $7-million post-pandemic fundraising goal, and the organization is getting close to reaching it.

One of the campaign’s patrons is local philanthropist Dr. William H. Jervey, Jr., who—in the fall of 2019—pledged $1 million to match community support for “The Next Act.” “As a lover of theater and all things Venice, I am enormously impressed by the quality of the productions and community support of Venice Theatre,” Jervey says. “It disturbs me, however, to hear that Venice Theatre is the ‘second-largest community theater in the United States.’ I say, why not be number one?! Hopefully, ‘The Next Act’ capital campaign will

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be the first step toward reaching that goal.” Jervey’s contributions have been transformational, according to Venice Theatre’s Producing Executive Director Murray Chase.

“We have been able to accelerate our campaign launch and building plans thanks to Dr. Jervey,” Chase says. “Dr. Jervey’s gift helps students expand their horizons.”

Located in downtown Venice, the Theatre is a gateway to live performances, educational classes and community engagement. New classroom and rehearsal spaces will give the Theatre more chances for the community to explore the power of the arts. And donors have been invited to support the project by naming their own studios, spaces and buildings.

The Theatre is currently home to the Jervey and Pinkerton Theatres, where 17 productions and 15 concerts are staged annually. Renovations are now complete on the lobby bar and restrooms, and a new business center will soon replace the box office. The Technical Arts Center was also recent-

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Building on Vision

ly renovated, and new community engagement programs will soon be housed in the Arts Education Center. Four new studios, a secure lobby and reception area, a greenroom, a boardroom and an upstairs office suite will be available for dance, music and acting classes by the end of 2023.

“We’re so excited to give our students, from ages five to 95, new spaces to experience the power of the arts and grow their talents and skills,” says Venice Theatre’s Assistant Director of Education and Community Engagement Kelly Duyn.

And there are still naming opportunities for spaces throughout the campus, ranging from $5,000 to $1,000,000 for the Tech Arts Center, said Camille Cline, who is running the campaign. “As of late March, with more than a quarter already matched of the recent $500,000 offered by area resident Carole Freeland Raymond, ‘The Next Act’ is in full swing,” Cline says. Venice Theatre, 140 Tampa Ave W., Venice, 941-488-1115, venicetheatre.org/the-next-act.

A Sarasota Performing Arts Center on the Bay

Left to right: Campaign Co-Chairs for the Asolo Repertory Theatre Ann Charters and Margaret Wise, CEO and President Jennifer Rominiecki of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, philanthropist Carole Raymond who offered a significant matching pledge to support the Venice Theatre’s Arts Education Center; and, CEO Cheryl Mendelson of the Van Wezel Foundation.

In September 2018, the City of Sarasota approved the “Bay Park Master Plan” to transform 53 acres along Sarasota Bay into a park and green space with a new Sarasota Performing Arts Center as its focus.

The current 80,000-square-foot Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is 54 years old, sits in a high-risk flood zone and— with 1,741 seats—is at a competitive disadvantage for early routing of national tours. The new Center, supported by the 1987-founded Van Wezel Foundation (a nonprofit devoted to bolstering the arts), will help “advance education and enrich communities by inspiring minds through the power of the arts,” according to the Foundation leaders. It will help advance educational opportunities and create multi-generational arts programming for lifelong learning, as well as utilize the arts to foster civic pride and community inclusion.

“Over 18,000 community members told us their aspirations for a new performing arts center. We heard you,” says Cheryl Mendelson, the CEO of the Foundation. “The new Center will have a 2,200-seat contemporary and accessible main hall to compete for first-run Broadway tours and national artists, a smaller flexible performance space to serve more diverse programming, and multiple public and event spaces—all designed to nurture excellence in artists, inspire wonder in audiences, and spark curiosity in learners.”

As for the timeline, the next step is to request bids for architects to design the Center. During this time, the Foundation will continue its practice of seeking input from the community through a series of charrettes. The timeline calls for the Foundation to contract with the architect in late 2022, and this will be followed by 24 months of design.

“The shovel goes in the ground in 2024, followed by 30 months of construction with a planned opening for the 20272028 season,” Mendelson says. “Fundraising has begun, and we have hired key positions to lead the planning, fundraising and future operations of the Center.”

The Foundation board members have also committed the first $20 million to jumpstart the fundraising campaign, according to Jim Travers, the Foundation Board of Directors chairman. Van Wezel Foundation, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 941-366-5578, vwfoundation.org/spac.

Innovating a Greener Future for Marie Selby Botanical Gardens The ambitious Master Plan for Marie Selby Botanical Gardens’ Downtown Sarasota campus will do three main things, according to President and CEO Jennifer Rominiecki.

It will grow the Gardens by providing more green space within its existing footprint in the heart of Sarasota. It will reveal the hidden treasures of Selby Gardens, with new windows into the world’s best scientifically-documented collection of orchids and bromeliads. And it will safeguard the organization’s future while making it a model for sustainable design, as Selby Gardens becomes the world’s first certified net-positive energy botanical garden complex.

The campaign to fund this three-phase project, known as “Innovating a Greener Future,” was set at $92 million, including $20 million for endowment. Phase I will cost $51.6 million, of which Selby Gardens needs to raise about $5 million more.

“The generosity of this community has been phenomenal,” Rominiecki says. A “Capping Challenge” to reach that interim goal is underway, with every new gift matched dollar for dollar. Meanwhile, Phase I is proceeding rapidly, with vertical construction having started in April.

When it opens in August 2023, the first phase will include a state-of-the art welcome center, cutting-edge plant research center, and what Selby Gardens calls the Living Energy Access Facility (LEAF). The LEAF will house a garden-to-plate restaurant, expanded gift and plant shop, and onsite parking for up to 450 cars—all topped by a massive solar array that will generate nearly one megawatt of power, helping to earn that net-positive energy rating.

“With Phase I to be complete only 16 months from now, our donors are excited that they will see the results of their philanthropy in such a short time,” Rominiecki says.

The first phase includes an underground stormwater vault that will capture and clean every drop of water that falls on the site before returning it to Sarasota Bay. Connection to the surrounding community will be enhanced with a multiuse recreational trail and an adjacent bayfront pocket park, to be owned by the City of Sarasota but improved and maintained by the Gardens.

Phase II will feature all new glass houses to showcase the Gardens’ living plant collection and expanded classroom, and activity space for everyone from kids to lifelong learners. The final phase will tie everything together with enhanced pathways and outdoor features, plus preservation improvements to the campus’ two historic structures: Selby House and Payne Mansion. Inevitable cost increases in this uncertain environment mean that the Gardens will reassess the costs for Phases II and III as the first phase is completed. But Rominiecki has no doubts about sustaining the current trajectory.

“This is a truly transformational project that will benefit our community while distinguishing the City of Sarasota on the world stage,” she says. “Investor confidence is high, and we are full speed ahead.” Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 1534 Mound St. Sarasota, 941-366-5731, selby.org/support/ thecampaignforselbygardens.

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Building on Vision

The Koski Center Expansion at Asolo Repertory Theatre The first phase of “Staging Our Future”—a $21-million capital campaign at Asolo Repertory Theatre—is on track to be completed by June. This includes the building of a new structure at the Robert and Beverly Koski Center on Tallevast Road (including the Margot and Warren Coville Rehearsal Hall) and other spaces vital to Asolo Rep’s strategic plan for expanding educational and community enrichment programs.

“To see the way our artistic and engagement programs consistently reach our highest standards while continuing to evolve—we just couldn’t be more proud of our team and our community,” says Asolo Rep Producing Artistic Director Michael Donald Edwards. “But we’ve reached a point where we’ve outgrown our existing infrastructure, and we need these new spaces to continue to support our growth and vision for the future.”

Expanding the Koski Center will have a major economic impact on the community, making it possible to launch national tours from Asolo Rep. A larger costume shop and industry standard storage will enable Asolo Rep to accept contract work, and rent costumes and wigs to other theaters and universities. And a flexible facility will be used for Asolo Rep’s Education and Engagement classes, camps and theatre training (as well as for rentals to the community for events, conferences and rehearsals).

Fundraising for Phase II of the campaign has already begun, with $7 million remaining to complete the next leg of the project. This phase will fund necessary renovations to the existing Koski Center buildings, providing comprehensive infrastructure that includes additional rehearsal space, classrooms, studios, physical therapy facilities, artistic offices, and a dedicated onsite suite for costume fitting, construction and storage.

“We haven’t been sitting still for the past two years,” says Campaign Co-Chair Ann Charters. “Our wonderful architects, Sweet Sparkman, and contractor, Tandem Construction, have been hard at work this whole time. Phase I construction is coming in on time and on budget.”

The total project budget for “Staging Our Future” includes a $5 million endowment for operating expenses for the new and newly renovated spaces. Asolo Rep has currently raised 85 percent of this endowment goal.

“Despite the pandemic, support for this campaign has never wavered,” Asolo Rep Managing Director Linda DiGabriele says. “Our community champions recognized early on that this project will not only increase our creative capacity, but also drive robust economic activity in the region. In season, Asolo Rep employs more than 100 actors, designers, artisans, stage managers, educators and more.”

Longtime benefactor Deb Kabinoff recently contributed $250,000 to Asolo Rep’s “Staging Our Future” campaign, and a state-of-the-art media production facility will honor her. The Deb Kabinoff Media Production Studio will contain the infrastructure and technology to produce significant educational, institutional and promotional audio/visual media to support and amplify Asolo Rep’s goals. Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N. Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, 941-3518000, asolorep.org/support-us/staging-our-future-capital-and-endowment-campaign.

Oceans for All at Mote In 2017, guided by its 2020 Vision and Strategic Plan, Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium commissioned feasibility studies to guide the institution’s growth in science and education, and to increase its service to the community and the economy. The studies suggested significant benefits of a rebirth of Mote Aquarium at a new site in Sarasota County, which would free up space for the much-needed growth of Mote’s research enterprise at its primary campus on City Island.

So a $130-million “Oceans for All” capital campaign was launched to create the Mote Science Education Aquarium (Mote SEA). And, in November 2020, Mote broke ground on the Mote SEA facility at Nathan Benderson Park.

“It has always been Mote’s mission to educate people about the research that scientists are doing globally and the issues our oceans are facing,” says Michael Moore, the special advisor for Mote’s Office of the President.

Mote SEA is designed to reach nearly 800,000 visitors per year, inspire the next generation of marine scientists, and serve as a major tourism and economic driver for the greater Sarasota-Manatee region. Three state-of-the-art STEM teaching laboratories will bring marine science to life for thousands of area school children, offered at no-cost to Sarasota and Manatee County school districts.

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Below: New infrastructure rendering, courtesy of the Asolo Repertory Theatre.

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“Mote has been doing a lot for K-12 education for the last few years and the new facility will enhance that,” Moore says.

“There are 25 Title I schools with 24,000 students in Sarasota-Manatee, and we need to provide help to these kids and their families. So we will provide each local Title I student and their family a day pass to the facility each year.”

Phase I of the Mote SEA project began last year, and included paving the southern end of the future parking lot and partially completing the northern end of the lot. By September 2021, Mote was preparing to launch Phase II—securing the dirt for the base of Mote SEA, replacing drainage pipes between lakes at the north end of the park, and completing additional site work (this will likely be done by August).

In September, Phase III will involve putting 260 80-foot pilings into the ground to lay the foundation for the build-

ing. The official ribbon cutting for the facility is slated for September 2024. Webcams on Mote SEA’s website show the construction progress, and there is even a virtual 3-D tour.

By the spring of 2022, Mote officials shared that $100 million had been committed to the “Oceans for All” capital campaign by philanthropic, public and corporate supporters. The community support continues to expand as donors realize the economic potential of Mote SEA. “We have about three million people who live within an hour’s drive of the facility,” Moore says. “And Mote SEA is projected to contribute about $90 million back into the Sarasota-Manatee economy per year.” Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, 941388-4441, moteoceansforall.org. SRQ

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The First 1,000-Day Marathon

First 1,000 Days Suncoast supports local parents, caregivers and their babies so that all families have equal opportunities to thrive regardless of race, education or socioeconomic status.

A SINGLE PREGNANT MOTHER WITH THREE CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF FIVE recently arrived at Sarasota Memorial Hospital in need of transitional housing, transportation, childcare and baby supplies. Unsure of how to care for herself or her growing family, she didn’t know where to turn or what to do. Thankfully, the people at First 1,000 Days Suncoast did.

“We’re helping the most vulnerable mothers and families,” says Kelly Romanoff, Innovation and Impact Office for Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation, which spearheaded First 1,000 Days Suncoast in 2018. “We’re keeping them from slipping through the cracks.” First 1,000 Days Suncoast (housed within the Sarasota Memorial Health Care System (SMHCS), is a community initiative that supports parents, caregivers and their babies, so that all families have equal opportunities to thrive regardless of race, education or socioeconomic status. A member of The Basics Learning Network, the program helps families during pregnancy and their child’s first 1,000 days of life (when 80 percent of child brain development occurs).

WRITTEN BY ABBY WEINGARTEN

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The First 1,000-Day Marathon A Community Network A partnership of nonprofit organizations and healthcare providers creates a network of free and affordable services for these families. And, in January, the Steering Committee that oversees the strategic direction of this network expanded to reflect a new four-county regional focus.

“This initiative started in Sarasota, and it’s been incredible to see the interest and response from our three neighboring counties,” says Kameron Hodgens, Ph.D., the chief executive officer of Glasser/ Schoenbaum Human Services Center at the time this article was written, who was recently elected chair of the First 1,000 Days Suncoast Steering Committee.

“As a mom who lives in Manatee County and works in Sarasota, I know that county lines mean very little when accessing healthcare for your children. I’m proud to be a part of this Steering Committee as we make this a more regional effort.”

Six new members have also joined the Steering Committee to represent Charlotte, DeSoto and Manatee counties, and to deepen the emphasis on public health, child welfare and service to Latino families: Angie Matthiesen, the executive director of United Way of Charlotte County; Katie Powers, a nurse and clinical leader at Manatee Memorial Hospital; MJ Horen, the chief program officer for the DeSoto Food and Resource Center of All Faiths Food Bank; Lisa Abello, a pediatrician and chief medical officer for CenterPlace Health; Luz Corcuera, the executive director of UnidosNow; and Nathan Scott of Circuit 12 Child Welfare Policy Coordination for the Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County.

Their involvement will help the team at First 1,000 Days Suncoast connect with babies and families who are born or receive care at Sarasota Memorial Hospital but live in surrounding areas.

has an OB emergency room for pregnant women, where they report when they are in labor and things are going well. But this is also where many women show up who are having complications or signs of early labor. All pregnant mothers go through this department and it is an ideal intercept for First 1,000 Days services.”

The OB emergency room nurses screen these mothers for the environmental, emotional and social factors that influence their well-being.

“Despite their direct linkage to physical well-being, many healthcare facilities shy away from asking questions about living conditions, domestic violence, food insecurity, etc. because they don’t want to be responsible for solving these ‘non-medical’ issues,” Romanoff says. “Sarasota Memorial Hospital is different, and it’s all because of the First 1,000 Days referral system ‘Unite Us.’”

Engage:

For more information on First 1,000 Days Suncoast, visit first1000srq.com.

A Wider Reach Nearly 45 percent of babies born at the hospital every year reside in a neighboring county, so the organization will connect these families with community partners to create a coordinated system of care.

“Specific to reaching the ‘bottom 10 percent’ of those in most need, Sarasota Memorial Hospital now screens all pregnant women who come to the hospital for social determinants of health,” Romanoff says. “The hospital

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On day one of the new screening process, a nurse helped the aforementioned single pregnant mother (who came to Sarasota Memorial Hospital in need of housing) by making seven referrals through Unite Us. In less than 24 hours, two of the mother’s three young children had already been picked up, and the mother was connected with the Early Learning Coalition (for childcare) and Better Together (which provides peer support to help prevent children from entering foster care).

“Had this mother gone to Sarasota Memorial Hospital the week prior, her fate would have been entirely different. She would have left the hospital without any of these connections,” Romanoff says.

“Now, when she goes into labor and returns to the hospital, the social workers will be flagged, and the First 1,000 Days team will be there to greet and support her and her children. She and her children aren’t alone in their struggles. We are grateful to Sarasota Memorial Hospital for their compassionate and innovative approach to healthcare.”

A Compassionate Vision So what initially inspired the inception of First 1,000 Days Suncoast? It started with Charles and Margery Barancik, founders of Barancik Foundation, who asked their staff to research how to address summer learning loss for students. In talking with community partners, the Barancik team learned a valuable lesson that now informs their approach to philanthropy: “The earlier the investment, the greater the return.”

“We realized that, if we really wanted to make a difference in education readiness and community wellbeing, we had to start before a child was even born, ensuring that families have the support needed to lay a strong foundation in their life,” Romanoff says.

Beginning in 2016, Barancik Foundation’s team spent more than a year, alongside Sarasota Memorial Hospital and 31 other partners, exploring how the community could better provide families with the foundational support they needed during babies’ critical early years.

“First 1,000 Days Suncoast coordinates services to make it easy for families to connect with community supports,” Romanoff says. “Before, there was a literal maze of resources that parents would have to navigate if they needed help during and after their pregnancy.”

ILLUSTRATION BY WOODY WOODMAN.

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A Devoted Team Chelsea Arnold, D.N.P., A.P.R.N., is the initiative manager for First 1,000 Days Suncoast. She works with Family Navigator Tina Wilson and Community Support Specialist Siena Kelley. Their initiative, which began in Sarasota County with 32 partners, has now expanded to include Manatee, DeSoto and Charlotte counties with more than 85 partner organizations, Arnold says.

SMHCS is the backbone of the organization, providing robust technical, legal, clinical and marketing support.

“Our team not only helps families navigate the system of care by connecting them with local medical, mental health and social services provided by our partner agencies,” Arnold says. “But they also facilitate community meetings and workgroups to break down systemic barriers to care, and they introduce agencies and professionals to build new partnerships and fill gaps in services identified by the community.”

One of the largest, most significant endeavors of the initiative is the building of a regional Parent Advisory Committee. “Parent voice” is regarded as the most valued aspect of the initiative, and First 1,000 Days Suncoast aims to ensure that parents and caregivers are empowered to be leaders in their own community, Arnold says. This program has already impacted the region in multiple ways.

“We have been building new partnerships between organizations to better serve families, and listening to parent voices to build programs that are effective, sustainable and helpful,” Arnold says. “We have been providing parents with educational tools and resources to help their child develop and flourish, and increasing awareness about early brain development and the critical nature of the early years through a region-wide campaign. We have also been identifying and resolving barriers to care through the convening of community experts, and supporting professionals with educational opportunities (on topics like trauma-informed care).”

The Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center was one of the “early adopters” of the concept of creating this community-based, easily accessible support network for mothers and babies, Hodgens says.

“Research shows that access to high-quality prenatal care, as well as assistive services postpartum for mothers and babies, play a critical role in the overall health and well-being of a family,” Hodgens says.

“Having a child is not an easy process. Parents should never feel isolated or without answers when living in a community like ours that is abundant with supportive resources.” SRQ

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PHILANTHROPY BRANDED CONTENT SECTION :: DONOR GUIDE TO GIVING

GivingCoast DONOR'S

GUIDETO GIVING

YOUR GUIDE TO GIVING OPPORTUNITIES BOOSTS THE IMPACT FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS WORKING IN OUR REGION. BECOME A PART OF THE LOCAL PHILANTHROPIC STORY BY FULFILLING THEIR GIVING BACK WISH LISTS.

IN SARASOTA+ MANATEE

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUBS OF SARASOTA AND DESOTO COUNTIES CAT DEPOT CHILDREN FIRST FORTY CARROTS FAMILY CENTER HUMANE SOCIETY OF MANATEE COUNTY IMPACT100 SRQ JFCS OF THE SUNCOAST MANATEE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION MOTE MARINE LABORATORY & AQUARIUM NEURO CHALLENGE FOUNDATION FOR PARKINSON'S RESILIENT RETREAT THE BISHOP MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND NATURE SARASOTA MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION THE FLORIDA CENTER FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD TIDEWELL FOUNDATION VAN WEZEL FOUNDATION YMCA OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

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Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties SEE YOURSELF HERE. The leaders of tomorrow are at Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto

Counties today. Over the past 50 years, we've witnessed thousands of youth, especially those who need us most, discover their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. People who walk through our doors and meet our Club members are amazed by what they find children and teens not unlike their younger selves full of hope, optimism, and potential. Youth, ages 6 to 18, are accessing enriching programs tailored to meet their needs and achieve their future goals. At Boys & Girls Clubs, youth can focus on building a greater, brighter future. Your interest in helping our community's future leaders allows you to support the types of activities you believe in such as arts, academics, health, leadership, and entrepreneurship. We invite you to See Yourself Here and recognize the significant impact your support can have on a child's life.

Visit bgcsdc.org/seeyourselfhere to learn more or call 941-366-3911 to schedule a tour.

Our WishList Donations for a child to obtain a one-year Boys & Girls Clubs membership.

Support for programs in Character & Leadership Development, Education & Career Development, Health & Life Skills, the Arts, and Sports, Fitness and Recreation.

Funds for curriculum supplies for teens in leadership, service, entrepreneurial, vocational and college and career prep programs.

Capital support for the renovation and expansion of our new Louis and Gloria Flanzer Boys & Girls Club in Arcadia.

Gifts for our endowment so we can continue to empower local youth for the next 50 years.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF SARASOTA AND DESOTO COUNTIES 3130 FRUITVILLE RD. SARASOTA, FL 34237 941-366-3911 | BGCSDC.ORG

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Forty Carrots Family Center

Our WishList

THE MISSION OF Forty Carrots Family Center, families receive the skills and resources necessary

PARTNERS IN PLAY® Support no cost early learning and parenting education groups for children and families from all walks of life at your public library.

to overcome life's adversities, strengthening family bonds while giving children the tools they need to thrive. Forty Carrots mission is to nurture healthy child and family development through research-based, relationship-centered education and mental health services. With 94% of services provided to families at no cost, Forty Carrots’ highly trained staff ensure that families from all walks of life create safe environments and strong, nurturing relationships for their children.

Forty Carrots serves families throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties through partnerships with 26 agencies. Help us to invest in our children today and reduce tomorrow’s high cost of poverty, under-education, substance abuse, incarceration, mental illness, and homelessness.

Mental health therapist contribute to an additional therapist to serve increased needs.

PreSchool Scholarships

provide high-quality early education for 2-5 year olds with financial need.

FORTY CARROTS FAMILY CENTER 1500 S. TUTTLE AVENUE, SARASOTA, FL 34239 941-365-7716 | FORTYCARROTS.COM

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Humane Society of Manatee County ON BEHALF OF THE ANIMALS, we truly appreciate the amazing support from our community. This support

has not only allowed the Humane Society of Manatee County to continue our life saving mission based work on behalf of the animals, but has allowed for an expansion of our veterinary clinic services, shelter enrichment programs and the expansion of our physical campus. Our communities have a large financially challenged population who own animals and these individuals and families struggle to provide veterinary care for their animals. Humane Society of Manatee County continues to provide much needed low-to-moderate cost veterinary services and low cost / no cost spay and neuter surgeries, microchips and vaccines. Two great programs that need your support are the Angel Fund, which provides funding to help financially challenged owners get their animals the veterinary care they deserve and need for emergency cases. A new fund, the Animal Cruelty Victims Fund, has been established to fund care needed for animals who have suffered from neglect or cruelty and are being cared for by our medical team.

Online donations can be made by going to www.humanemanatee.org and donations can be mailed to 2515 14th Street W. Bradenton, Florida 34205.

DONOR'S GUIDE TO GIVING

Our WishList Angel Fund

Veterinary clinic fund used to provide treatment for animals living in financially challenged homes.

We believe all animals in our community deserve needed veterinary care.

Spay & Neuter The “Spay it Forward Fund” provides low cost / no cost spay and neuter services for animals owned by seniors and low income residents.

Shelter Operating Funding to provide medical care for animals in our Second Chance Adoption Center.

TNR Fund Provides funding for spay and neuter services and vaccines for our community’s feral / free roaming cat population.

Images courtesy of Dani Zeris Photography.

HUMANE SOCIETY OF MANATEE COUNTY 2515 14TH STREET W, BRADENTON, FL | HUMANEMANATEE.ORG 941-747-8808 | INFO@HUMANESOCIETYMANATEE.ORG FACEBOOK.COM/ HUMANE MANATEE

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JFCS of the Suncoast JFCS OF THE SUNCOAST is a leading mental health and human service agency dedicated to

Our WishList

promoting community stability and resilience. Guided by Jewish values, JFCS helps all people. Providing tools to thrive and people-centered services, JFCS collaborates with community partners to support and identify solutions for individuals, families, children, seniors, and Veterans. For more information, visit www.jfcs-cares.org/ or call (941) 366-2224.

Financial support for the following programs:

Counseling services for individuals, families, youth, seniors and veterans Employment and financial assistance for those working and still having trouble making ends meet (ALICE population) Camp Mariposa – program for youth impacted by substance abuse Aging Services – Support for seniors and their caregivers Support for Veterans – housing, employment, counseling, and life skills Corporate Partners for special events and programs

2688 FRUITVILLE RD., SARASOTA, FL 34237 | JFCS-CARES.ORG CHRISTA MANNARINO, CDO | 941-302-7544 | CMANNARINO@JFCS-CARES.ORG

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Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium

Our WishList Continuing to protect sea turtles in Southwest Florida.

Ensuring the survival of Florida’s Coral Reef for generations to come.

DONOR'S GUIDE TO GIVING

MOTE MARINE LABORATORY is a world class nonprofit marine research institution committed to

the belief that the conservation and sustainable use of our oceans begins with research and education. What started as a tiny, one-room laboratory has grown over the years to include more than 20 diverse marine research programs and a public Aquarium that serves as a gateway to our oceans. Thanks to generous philanthropy, Mote has been at the forefront of groundbreaking research and discoveries that have advanced marine science as we know it. We’ve seen sea turtle nesting numbers grow under our watchful eye, released tens of thousands of baby snook into local waterways, traveled around the world for shark research, and so much more. As we continue to expand our capabilities for excellent marine research and education, we've created an International Coral Gene Bank, expanded our operations in the Florida Keys, and continue to make progress on the new Mote Science Education Aquarium that will inspire current and future generations to protect and conserve our oceans.

Constructing the Mote Science Education Aquarium to improve our community’s ocean literacy Supporting research programs through philanthropy.

Inspiring each guest to take action on behalf of our oceans.

MOTE MARINE LABORATORY & AQUARIUM | 1600 KEN THOMPSON PKWY, SARASOTA, FL, 34236 | 941-388-4441 | MOTE.ORG SRQ MAGAZINE

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Our WishList

Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation

Patient Care Maintaining the highest standards in patient care is the cornerstone of our health system.

Education Continuing education guarantees healthcare providers receive the most current information available.

Technology

Staying on the leading edge of today’s technology means patients benefit from the latest advances.

Research

Ongoing clinical research is integral in offering lifesaving and lifeimproving advances.

FOR OVER 45 YEARS, SARASOTA MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION has worked together with

Sarasota Memorial Health Care System to ensure a healthy future for our community through meaningful grants. Two major healthcare initiatives the Healthcare Foundation is raising support for are: BRINGING HOPE TO PATIENTS AND FAMILIES FACING CANCER. The Leading with Care campaign is generating support for the Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute so that cancer patients can receive comprehensive care close to home. The first two phases are complete. The Radiation Oncology Center opened in 2020 and the Oncology Tower on the SMH-Sarasota Campus opened in November. Planning is under way for an outpatient pavilion on the SMH-Sarasota campus and a cancer care center on the SMH-Venice campus. SUPPORTING THOSE STRUGGLING WITH ANXIETY, DEPRESSION AND OTHER MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES. The Healthcare Foundation is raising community support for the Cornell Family Behavioral Health Pavilion at SMH. When complete in late 2023, the new facility will enhance, expand and centralize care for people of all ages affected by mental and behavioral health challenges.

MISSION Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation is the philanthropic partner that helps Sarasota Memorial Health Care System bring world-class care to our community. Gifts to the Healthcare Foundation provide critical resources in the following areas:

Facilities

SARASOTA MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION 1515 S. OSPREY AVE., SUITE B4, SARASOTA, FL 34239 941.917.1286 | SMHF.ORG

First-rate facilities are fundamental to the delivery of quality care and medical services.

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The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF INSPIRING THE JOY OF DISCOVERY AND WONDER FOR ALL AGES, The Bishop develops

fun, interactive, and memorable experiences that lead to an appreciation of natural history and science. We are committed to providing these opportunities to everyone in our community, across all ages, races, genders, ethnicities, and social standings. The Bishop has provided free Museum access to over 1,500 families, attendance at Summer Science Camp to more than 300 children from economically disadvantaged families at no cost, and gave away over $125,000 in reduced and free programming, helping more than 69,000 people find the joy of discovery last year. The Museum recently began producing all content in both English and Spanish, starting with Dino Don’s DinoVenture. Approximately 3,000 students from Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, DeSoto, and Hillsborough Counties visited the Museum on school field trips last year, and during the pandemic The Bishop created online content with virtual tours to ensure children’s STEM learning would continue uninterrupted.

Additionally, The Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat currently hosts three juvenile manatees that are being prepared to rejoin the wild and contribute to the overall health of Florida’s ecosystem. We invite you to join us in continuing to provide unparalleled programming, learning opportunities, and environmental impact!

Our WishList Protect Florida wildlife and manatees by joining Bishop Foster Friends!

Spark children’s curiosity by sponsoring our Science Sprouts program for ages 2 to 4!

Make The Bishop available to the broader community by underwriting the Spanish translations for our collections and exhibitions!

Ensure no one misses out on the joy of discovery by sponsoring Museums for All!

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THE BISHOP MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND NATURE 201 10TH ST. WEST, BRADENTON, FL 34205 | BISHOPSCIENCE.ORG 941- 746-4131 | INFO@BISHOPSCIENCE.ORG INSTAGRAM: @BISHOPSCIENCEFL FACEBOOK: FACEBOOK.COM/ BISHOPSCIENCEFL

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Our WishList

Tidewell Foundation

THE TIDEWELL FOUNDATION exists to provide perpetual support to Tidewell Hospice and the other

Provide hospice charity care for those who cannot afford hospice care

Expand free grief services to all in need, through Tidewell’s Blue Butterfly program, Adult Grief Services, and Tidewell Family Grief Centers Provide complementary services such as massage, Reiki, art, music, horticultural, and pet therapies to reduce stress, discomfort, and loneliness in patients

Expand unique services for Veterans Expand workforce development programs, such as our nurse residency program and home health aide training continuum

not-for-profit affiliates of Empath Health in our service area. As the only not-for-profit hospice serving Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee, and Sarasota counties, the success of Tidewell’s 40+ year mission depends on the support of Tidewell Foundation donors. Our services go far beyond hospice, extending to grief counseling for children, music therapy, professional development for nurses, special programs for veterans, and so much more. This year’s fundraising goal of $5 million reflects the growth needs of Tidewell Hospice’s new and expanded services focused on providing full life care to all.

Donations to the Tidewell Foundation open new possibilities for the world-class care more than 11,000 patients receive each year, including the nearly 2,000 people served through Tidewell’s grief services. People of all ages are eligible for grief services at no cost — whether or not their loved one was a Tidewell Hospice patient. Our donor-supported investments have fueled the expansion of Tidewell’s Blue Butterfly program for grieving children and families into underserved communities, as well as our new Tidewell Family Grief Center in Ellenton. Donors are also helping to provide hands-on training to develop the next generation of hospice nurses and home healthcare aides, along with charity care for our patients who are too young to qualify for Medicare. Beyond these opportunities, our donors play a vital role in expanding programs such as Tidewell Honors Veterans, a comprehensive program focused on respectfully celebrating and providing care to veterans, and music

therapy, which harnesses the healing power of music to alleviate patients’ stress and pain.

Through your generosity, the Tidewell Foundation is advancing care and compassion for all. Connect with us for more information about these programs and to discover how your donation brightens lives in our community.

Support patients and families through Wishes (a program that fulfills a last wish for patients and their families) and Humanitarian needs.

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3550 S. TAMIAMI TRAIL, SARASOTA, FL 34239 | 941-552-7546 | TIDEWELLFOUNDATION.ORG GIVING@TIDEWELLFOUNDATION.ORG | EIN 85-0729071 |

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Our WishList Send a Kid to Camp

By supporting YMCA Summer Camp, you are providing children the opportunity to have the Best Summer Ever™ where they will create memories that last a lifetime.

Prepare Children for Kindergarten

By supporting YMCA Early Learning programs, you are providing children the opportunity to gain school readiness skills to be prepared for kindergarten and beyond.

Create Healthy Families and Communities

By supporting YMCA Health Innovations programs, you are providing individuals access to life-changing programming that supports health and well-being, fights chronic disease and empowers people to lead healthier lives.

YMCA of Southwest Florida FOR 55 YEARS, YMCA OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA has been a leading nonprofit committed to

strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other. YMCA of Southwest Florida operates eight YMCA facilities, two charter middle schools, four early learning academies and various camps and after school programs across Southwest Florida from Manatee County to Bonita Springs. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, we ensure that everyone has access to the opportunities, relationships and resources necessary to learn, grow and thrive. YMCA programs and services are focused on our primary areas of impact that help people achieve their goals and strengthen communities. As an inclusive, cause-driven organization, YMCA of Southwest Florida is committed to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Giving back and providing support to our neighbors is the heartbeat of the Y. The Y’s mission is to ensure life-changing programs, services and resources are available to all. In our communities, the Y has the presence and partnerships to not just promise, but to deliver, lasting personal and social change. In partnering with the Y, you can feel confident your gift is making a positive impact.

Nurture the Potential of Every Child

By supporting Before and After School Enrichment programs, you are providing children the opportunity to learn in a safe environment that allows them to thrive.

Help Prevent Childhood Drowning

By supporting YMCA Safety Around Water and swim lesson programs, you are providing children access to water safety programming that helps develop life-saving skills that reduce the potential for drowning.

701 CENTER ROAD VENICE, FL 34285 | YMCASWFL.ORG | GIVE@YMCASWFL.ORG

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Cat Depot Our WishList Community Food Bank Wet & Dry Cat Food (all types)

DONOR'S GUIDE TO GIVING

CAT DEPOT, a non-profit, free-roaming adoption center and rescue, is recognized for its progressive design and commitment to helping homeless, abandoned and injured animals. Cat Depot’s mission is to save lives, find loving homes, and provide the resources and education needed to improve the destiny of homeless cats. Cat Depot supports more than 130 cats and ki ens on any given day.

Shelter Medical Funding to benefit the health and well-being of the cats entrusted to our care.

Veterinary Assistance Fund Funding to assist pet parents with medical care for the feline family members

CAT DEPOT | 2542 17TH ST, SARASOTA, FL 34234 | 941-366-2404 | INFO@CATDEPOT.ORG | CATDEPOT.ORG

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Children First RANKING IN THE TOP 1% OF MORE THAN 1,800 HEAD START PRO-

Our WishList

GRAMS NATIONWIDE, Children First’s mission is to strengthen

children and families through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health, and well-being. As Sarasota County’s exclusive provider of Head Start and Early Head Start services, our agency offers high-quality, comprehensive services to hundreds of at-risk children and families annually at 15 locations. 83 percent of families enrolled live at or below the Federal Poverty Level. Investing in children at their earliest age pays social, educational, and economic dividends over the course of a child’s lifetime, now and for generations to come.

We are grateful for your philanthropy that provides what every child and family deserves - access to the services they need to thrive and opportunities for success.

Support the social, emotional, behavioral, physical, and cognitive development of our children through our comprehensive services.

Enhance family strengthening services for parents and caregivers through support of our award-winning Families First Institute and Parent Training Program.

Endowment support creating a lasting impact, today and for many generations to come.

1723 N. ORANGE AVENUE, SARASOTA, FL 34234 | 941-953-3877 | @CHILDRENFIRSTHEADSTART

Impact100 SRQ WHEN WE UNITE IN GIVING, THE IMPACT IS EXTRAORDINARY! Impact100 SRQ empowers women to col-

lectively fund transformational grants to nonprofits in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. Founded in 2018, Impact100 SRQ is the fastest growing chapter of more than 60 Impact100 chapters worldwide. In four years, the women of Impact100 SRQ will fund 15 grants and donate $1,637,000 to local nonprofits.

As a completely self-supported, all-volunteer organization, the women of the giving collective unite to make positive change in the community. 100% of members’ annual donation goes to fund transformational grants; therefore, Impact100 SRQ relies on generous individuals and businesses in the community to support their mission. Your contribution helps Impact100 SRQ remain a self-supported organization so they can continue helping those who need it most.

COMMUNICATIONS@IMPACT100SRQ.ORG | P.O. BOX 49887 SARASOTA, FL 34230 | IMPACT100SRQ.ORG

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Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson's NEURO

Our WishList

CHALLENGE

FOUNDATION

DONOR'S GUIDE TO GIVING

FOR

PARKINSON’S is a non-profit organization created to improve the quality of life of people with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers today. Neuro Challenge provides individualized Care Advising and FREE ongoing virtual and in-person education, therapeutic and support programs in Sarasota, Manatee, Pinellas, Highlands, Marion and Charlotte counties and beyond. All Neuro Challenge services and programs are offered at no cost to people with Parkinson’s disease and their loved ones.

Serve the estimated 12,000 regional residents with Parkinson’s.

Educate people with Parkinson’s, their caregivers, and families on how to improve their overall quality of life today.

Create a community of support and A Better Approach to Parkinson’s by providing local resources to people living each day with Parkinson’s disease.

722 APEX ROAD, SUITE A, SARASOTA, FL 34240 941-926-6413 | NEUROCHALLENGE.ORG

Resilient Retreat RESILIENT RETREAT WAS FOUNDED IN 2018 to empower survivors of

abuse and those that experience trauma in the workplace, like first responders and medical professionals, to thrive through self- care and community. Resilient Retreat began construction on a new 18,000 sq. ft. retreat center and 5,000 sq. ft. community center on 84-acres of conservation land off Fruitville Rd. Upon completion in Fall 2022 Resilient Retreat will be able to expand its capacity to offer healing services to survivors and helping professionals from our community and beyond.

Services include neurofeedback, equine therapy, yoga, meditation, time in nature, and support groups as well as enhancing self- care skills through workshops on healthy cooking, journaling, and other beneficial activities. In addition to the no cost, confidential day programs currently being offered, peaceful multi-day retreats focused on healing the entire person will be added to provide participants with the necessary tools to not only survive but to thrive.

Our WishList A donation of any size will help Resilient Retreat continue its mission to empower survivors of trauma to thrive.

Consider a naming opportunity at the Retreat Center in support of the Road to Resilience Capital Campaign.

Funds for curriculum supplies for participant workshops and support groups.

13010 FRUITVILLE ROAD, SARASOTA, FL 34240 | 941-343-0039 | INFO@RESILIENTRETREAT.ORG | RESILIENTRETREAT.ORG FACEBOOK.COM/ RESILIENTRETREATSRQ | TWITTER.COM/WELOVERESILIENT | INSTAGRAM.COM/ RESILIENTRETREAT

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The Florida Center for Early Childhood

Our WishList Provide a child with wrap-around services & early education at Starfish Academy Connect an expectant mother to resources through our Healthy Families program Heal a child in the welfare system from trauma through our Childhood Court Program Support a child with behavioral challenges through free school-based mental health therapy

STRONG FOUNDATIONS NEED SUPPORT. That’s

why The Florida Center for Early Childhood gives children and families the building blocks they need to provide a strong family foundation through developmental therapies, mental health counseling, parental support, and early childhood education.

With 1 in 6 children suffering from a mental, behavioral or developmental disorder, The Florida Center provides prevention and early intervention services to more than 3,500 children and families, many who are at risk for academic, social and economic failure. Through the agency’s therapeutic services, children reach developmental milestones and parents receive the tools needed to nurture their child’s development. The Florida Center’s eight programs are nationally recognized with an overall success rate of 98%, demolishing generational cycles related to abuse & neglect, academic delay and mental health disorders that create added costs to society.

YOU CAN HELP BUILD UP CHILDREN AND FAMILIES IN OUR COMMUNITY BY DONATING TODAY!

4620 17TH STREET, SARASOTA 34235 | 6929 OUTREACH WAY, NORTH PORT 34287 | 941-371-8820 | THEFLORIDACENTER.ORG

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ADVENTURES IN ARTS, SCIENCE, STEM, TECHNOLOGY, SPORTS, DANCE THEATER AND MUSIC AN SRQ MAGAZINE FAMILY PUBLICATION | SUMMER CAMPS & PRIVATE SCHOOLS

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SummerCamps 2022 SUMMER CAMPS IN SARASOTA+ MANATEE

OVERALL CAMPS CENTER MONTESSORI SCHOOL SUMMER FUN EXPERIENCE CAMP AT THE MAIN CAMPUS AND EAST CAMPUS Ages 3-6

This educational summer program is enjoyable for children and has different themes each week filled with arts and crafts. Dates: June 6–August 5 (no camp on July 4). Cost: Full day: $200/ week, Half day: $150/week. Register: 941-753-4987, cms@centermontessori.org, centermontessori.org Main Campus: 6024 26th S. West, Bradenton. East Campus: 12705 State Rd. 64 East, Lakewood Ranch.

COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP Grade K-8 The

new campus of the Hershorin Schiff Community Day School is located at the corner of Wilkonson Road and McIntosh Road on an 8.5 acre property. Get ready for an educational and fun summer camp with themed weeks that include sciences, language, arts, nature and sports. Dates: Session 1:June 6– 17, Session 2: June 20–July 1, Session 3: July 5–15, Session 4: July 18–29 Cost: Prices begin at $450/ week. Visit communityday.org/student-experience/summer-camp for a detailed pricing guide Register: 941552-2770, 4335 Wilkinson Rd, Sarasota, questions@communityday.org, communityday.org.

GIRLS INC. SUMMER CAMP

Ages 5-14, girls will be separated into age groups Campers will explore

the community, participate in sports, stretch their creativity, acquire valuable life skills, join clubs, learn about the environment, make new friends and have fun. Each girl will participate in activities that involve them in nationally researched and developed programs. Including gardening and nutrition, media literacy, summer reading, computer skills and 3D printing, dream

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Harbor Mini-Society, ProjectBOLD and financial and economic literacy. Dates: May 31 to August 5, 8am to 5pml a hot lunch and snack are included. Cost: $25 registration, $125 per week, scholarships available upon request. Register: 941-366-6646; girlsincsrq.org/ summercamp, 201 South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota.

SUMMER VACATION IN THE PARKS DAY CAMP Grades 1-5

at Bee Ridge Park, Colonial Oaks Park, Longwood Park. Grades 1-6 at Laurel Park and Woodmere Park.

Grades 6-8 at Colonial Oaks Park.

Day Camp offers a safe and exciting setting for your children to enjoy a summer of discovery. Weekly themes allow campers to have fun, make friends and enjoy new experiences with field trips each week and on-site activities focusing on physical activity, creative arts, science and nature, safety and wellness, character development and reading to prevent summer learning loss. Camp fee includes one official camp T-shirt, field trip costs and onsite activities including a weekly professional entertainer. Lunch will be provided free of charge through the Sarasota District Schools Food and Nutrition Services Summer Break Spot Program as the field trip schedule allows. Campers are transported to field trip sites in Sarasota County school buses. Dates: Session One: June 6–July 1, 7:30am-5:30pm, Session Two: July 5–29, 7:30am-5:30pm; additional week available Cost: Bee Ridge, Colonial Oaks Park, Longwood Park Grades 1-5: $392/session; payment plan available; financial assistance available to qualifying families. Laurel Park and Woodmere Park Grades 1-5: $392/session; payment plan available; financial assistance available to qualifying families.

Register: scgov.net/parks.

THE OUT-OF-DOOR ACADEMY SUMMER ACADEMY Grades K-5.

BANYAN DAY CAMP Camp Banyan,

one of our most popular day camps, is held on our Siesta Key Campus. Each themed week offers a brand new experience full of exciting activities that include beach days, off-campus field trips and special themed activities. Our time on campus is spent experiencing a wide variety of activities which may include water days, arts and crafts, cooking, hands-on science experiments, outdoor sports and games, team building, drama, leadership building activities and more! All activities and field trips are subject to change. Dates: June 13–July 22, 9am-3pm Cost: $250/week, extended care available for $50 per week Register: 941- 554-3400, oda.edu, 444 Reid St., Siesta Key.

ARTS CAMPS, VISUAL ART CENTER SARASOTA CREATIVE KIDS SUMMER CAMP Ages 6-10 Campers will be led by their teachers in fun and challenging art projects using various mediums, including painting, drawing, sculpture and collage. They will learn and practice basic art skills such as color mixing, painting with artist paint brushes and drawing with pencil, marker and pastel. Creative Kids Camp is for younger campers of all skill levels and accomplishments.

Our teachers are great at creatively adapting projects and working with a variety of skill levels and dexterity.

EMERGING ARTISTS CAMP Ages 11-15 Emerging Artists Camp is a

program for older campers to experiment with more complex art subjects and materials and create projects of their own design under the guidance of our skilled art teachers. Dates: June 1–August 7 Cost: $300/week for non-members or $250/week for members. Before-care or After-care available; all supplies included; sibling discount; scholarships available. Register: 707 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota. 941-365-2032. jane@artsarasota. org, artsarasota.org/youthprograms.

RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN STUDIO+DIGITAL ARTS SUMMER TEEN STUDIOS

Ages 12–18 Ringling College’s Summer Teen Studios presents students ages 12 to 18 with fun, educational opportunities to explore new and proven art techniques, develop their unique style and expand their critical-thinking skills. Students find inspiration in ceramics, drawing, painting, character design, sketchbook workshop, filmmaking, stop-motion animation, photography, animation, illustration, creative writing, portfolio development and more. Take just one class, or focus on skill building in a variety of classes. Students of all skill levels are welcome. Registration is open until April 1. Dates: TBD Cost: TBA Register: 941.955.8866, scs@ringling.eduringling.edu/SummerArt. 2700 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota.

THE OUT-OF-DOOR ACADEMY

ARTS CAMPS

Grades PreK-5 A wide range of art camps give kids the chance to explore their creative side through a variety of arts and crafts skills including Art and Eats Camp (rising grades Pre-k – K), Crazy Cooking Camp (rising grades 1-5), Sewing Camp (rising grades 2-5), Mosaic and Resin Camp (rising grades 2-5) and Woodworking Camp (rising grades 2-5).

Dates: Art and Eats: June 20–24 and July 18–22, 9am-12pm, Crazy Cooking: June 20–24 and July 11–15, 1pm-4pm, Sewing: June 27–July 1, 9am-12pm, Mosaic and Resin: June 13–17, 9am12pm, Woodworking: July 18–July 22, 1pm-4pm Cost: $210/week Register: 941-349-3223, oda.edu, Lakewood Ranch campus.

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2022 Summer Camps

COOKING CAMPS

SUMMER IN THE PARKS CHEF CAMP Ages 10-15 at Fins at Shar-

PINEAPPLE KITCHEN: KITCHEN KIDS SUMMER CAMP Ages 8-13

Kitchen Kids Basic Culinary and Restaurant Education Course for ages 8-13 will include basic cooking and baking, food safety, restaurant etiquette and operations and will culminate in a four-course graduation dinner for two family members or friends on the last day, Thursday, prepared and served by the students in our mock restaurant.

Each student will receive an embroidered chef’s apron and hat with their name, measuring spoons & measuring cup and a class course book. Students will prepare their lunch daily.

Please contact us for special dietary requirements. This four-day culinary course will teach principles of food and kitchen safety, best practices for food preparation, basic kitchen tools and measurements, how to make charcuterie boards for an appetizer, along with making main courses and dessert, customer service and table etiquette for dining, presentation skills and basic restaurant operations. Class size is limited to 12 students. Dates: June 20–23, July 11–14, July 18–21, July 25–28, August 1–4 Cost: $350/ week.

Register: 4914 Lena Rd, Unit 104, Bradenton, pineapplekitchen.com.

SUMMER IN THE PARKS ART AND EATS Ages 5-10 at Nokomis

Beach Park This is a camp that com-

bines our art and cooking programs all in one. Our cooking curriculum each day will be about kitchen cleanliness, food safety and proper tool usage.

Campers will be using the “three bite rule” as they explore new food flavors both sweet, savory and sometimes exotic. The second half of the camp will be filled with art and exploring many different types and forms of art such as paper, woodworking, sewing, tile, paint and creative uses for recycled materials and more. All tools, recipes and supplies will be provided as well as a bunch of new skills, a dash of inspiration and a pinch of spice. Dates: June 6—10, 9am-12pm Cost: $150 Register: scgov.net/parks.

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ky’s Bon appetit! Learn lifelong cooking

skills and techniques from world class chefs at Venice’s premier beachfront steakhouse—Fins at Sharky’s. Campers will enjoy an immersive, hands-on kitchen experience focusing on culinary techniques including kitchen safety, sushi, grilling steaks, prep, bread baking, sautéing fish and more. Made in Italy Ciao! Made In Italy is teaching a cooking class for kids! We invite you into our kitchen to learn the basics to some Italian kid-friendly food. You will learn how to make pizza, pasta and Italian desserts. Mattison’s Forty-One: The chefs at Mattison’s Forty-One will teach you culinary techniques and elaborate recipes from some of the best chefs around. Learn the finer cooking skills from grilling to saute to sauces and sides. Dates: Fins at Sharky’s (July 18– 22), Made in Italy (August 1–5), Mattison’s Forty-One (June 20–24), 8:30am11am Cost: $225/session Register: scgov.net/parks.

DANCE CAMPS SARASOTA BALLET CHILDREN’S DANCE CAMP Ages 5-7

June 6-10; 9am-12 Noon, Monday to Friday. Theme: Fairytales. $125/week and $25 deposit. STEP INTO BALLET Ages 3-4 June 13-17; 9am-9:45aml Monday to Friday; Theme: Fairytales. $50/week, $25 deposit. EXPLORERS DANCE CAMP Ages 8-11 June 13-17, 1-4pm, Monday to Fridaay; Theme: Around the World. $125/week, $25 deposit. CHILDREN’S DANCE CAMP Ages 5-7 June 20-24, 9am-12 Noon, Monday to Friday. Theme: Carnival of the Animals. $125/week, $25 deposit.

Register: 941-225-6520, education@ sarasotaballet.org, sarasotaballet. org/summer-fun-balletSarasota Ballet Studios at Rosemary Square, 1400 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota.

SARASOTA CONTEMPORARY DANCE SUMMER PROGRAMS

LITTLE GROOVERS Ages 5-8. INTERMEDIATE MOVERS Ages 8-12.

Explore new ways of moving—students will have the opportunity to

take Contemporary, Hip Hop, Acro, Afro-Modern and Creative Movement. Each day will also include craft and game time. No dance experience necessary. There will be a mini performance for the family on July 29 at 1pm. Dates: July 25 –29 Cost: Little Groovers: $150 ($175 after July 1), Intermediate Movers: $175 ($200 after July 1). Price includes one t-shirt. 10 percent discount offered for siblings.

Register: 941-260-8485,info@sarasotacontemporarydance.org, sarasotacontemporarydance.org/kids-summer-programs. 1400 Boulevard of the Arts, Suite 300, Sarasota.

LANGUAGE CAMPS SPANISH LEGACY SPANISH SUMMER CAMPS Ages 3-12

Spanish Legacy Summer Camp is held onsite at the academy throughout the summer. All camps are full immersion led by native-speaking teachers.

Children learn through lively games, crafts and fun creative activities, all while developing language proficiency and critical thinking skills. Small class sizes and 1:1 attention. Dates: June 6–10: Under the Sea, June 13–17: Circus Week, June 20–24: In The Kitchen, June 21–25: Wide World of Sports, June 27–July 1: Color Craze, July 6–8: USA Week, July 11–15: Nature Week, July 18–22: Jobs in Our Community, July 25–29: Campers Choice! Morning Camp is 9am-12pm; Afternoon is 1pm-4pm: Full-day is 9am-4pm. Cost: mornings are $205/week, afternoons are $205/week, full days are $250/ week, July 6–8 is $150. Register: 941925-8510, spanishlegacy.com. Spanish Legacy 2822 Proctor Rd., Sarasota.

sic. Members of the Music Compound will have access to a wide array of learning opportunities intended to not only build music skills but also enhance confidence, communication and social interaction abilities. Learning opportunities include one-on-one instrument lessons, group instrument lessons, music education, workshops, open forums to encourage music interactions and performance and recital opportunities. Options include Performance Master Class, Strings and Things, Rock Band, Vocals and Movement, Drum Circle, Songwriting, DJ, Key to Piano, and Kidz Rock. Dates: June 6 –August 5. No camp July 4–8.

Morning Session: 9am-12pm, Afternoon Session: 1pm-4pm. Cost: $30 Registration fee. Half-Day Session for a Week: $150. Full-Day Session for a Week $300 Register: 941-379-9100, contact@musiccompound.com, musiccompound.com. Main Campus: 1751 Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota.

SARASOTA ORCHESTRA SUMMER MUSIC CAMP Grades 3-12

MUSIC CAMPS

This two-week, half day camp provides beginning students the ideal opportunity to try out a musical instrument. Intermediate and advanced students will hone their skills or have a chance to sample something new.

Offering multiple ensembles, all students will be placed with students at the same ability. Activities include daily rehearsals in a large ensemble, a technique class and skill building in elective classes. Classes are kept to a manageable size, so every student receives individual attention. Dates: July 11-22, Strings: 9am – 12pm, Band: 1pm – 4pm Cost: $200 + $25 application fee, scholarships available. Register: 941-487-2731, sarasotaorchestra. org/education/summer-music-camp, Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center, 709 North Tamiami Trl, Sarasota.

MUSIC COMPOUND Grades 1-12;

THE SUZUKI INSTITUTE OF MUSIC SUMMER CAMP Ages

grades 1-5 are grouped together and grades 6-12 are grouped together Find your inner musician

this summer. The Music Compound provides an environment to inspire, collaborate and educate children and adults in pursuit of their love of mu-

7-11 These new, exciting arts camps are designed for students at all levels to offer campers a wide range of experiences with music and other fine arts—exploring multiple arts, developing creativity, building friendships and joining with other campers to create a performing ensemble. In the mornings,

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EXPLORE THE SCHOOL THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU | SPECIAL BRANDED CONTENT SECTION TO ROCKETKIDS SUMMER 2022

NEWGATE SCHOOL

FOUNDED IN 1907 BY DR. MARIA MONTESSORI, the Montessori Method highlights a child-centered education supported by neuroscience research that promotes the development of executive function and learning at every age. Known as the “gold standard” for early childhood education, current research also reveals the effectiveness of the Montessori Method throughout one’s lifetime, inspiring a practice of lifelong learning. NewGate provides many different programs to help ignite the minds of students and help them understand the world

of professionalism at a very young age. NewGate is an established, triple-accredited school in a region that is becoming increasingly more international every year. A Montessori education creates an entrepreneurial culture. Programs for NewGate’s Middle and High School students include annual internships, drama immersion weeks, research trips, and service learning. NewGate School works with students as unique individuals to ensure they develop their full potential.

Global Campus NewGate enjoys an international reputation and has drawn families from around the USA and abroad to join us in beautiful Sarasota, Florida When the global pandemic hit two years ag0, NewGate went seamlessly online. While almost everyone has been thrilled to be back on campus, we were joined by students from other states and countries who thrived online. NewGate is excited to introduce our GlobASHTON ROAD CAMPUS

LAKEWOOD RANCH CAMPUS

al Campus e-learning program that will allow students from all over the world to

SERVES AGES 8 WEEKS TO GRADE 8 5237 ASHTON ROAD SARASOTA, 34233 941-922-4949

SERVES GRADES 9-12 5481 COMMUNICATIONS PKWY LAKEWOOD RANCH 941-222-0763

continue their Montessori education in a global learning environment. Today, the

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school boasts a robust eLearning program for students from four states and three countries. Our local eLearning program allows students with health concerns to continue their studies. STUDENTS 6-16 YEARS OLD. TEAMGLOBAL@NEWGATE.EDU.

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2022 Summer Camps

campers will be in groups separated by age and ability and given the opportunity to work with different teachers on various instruments ranging from the violin to drums and world percussion, singing and guitar. Beginners will get a fun introduction to a range of musical instruments. Those with prior experience with music will build upon their skills and acquire new ones, including instruments they may not have been exposed to yet. Sessions will focus on art, dance and drama as participants connect their music explorations to stories, drama games, acting, making art and creating a performing ensemble. Weekly themes will connect explorations with new activities each week.

Dates: June 6–August 5 Cost: $295/ week for Full Day (9am-4pm), $160/ week for Half Days (9–12 or 12:30– 3:30) available by request. Register: 941-330-9930, sarasotasuzuki@gmail. com. sarasotasuzuki.org/book-online Suzuki Institute School of Music, 3100 Southgate Cir., Sarasota.

VENICE SYMPHONY SUMMER MUSIC CAMP Grades K-12, begin-

ner, intermediate and advanced.

The Venice Symphony will offer two week-long summer music camps for students at all experience levels. Each week will end with a Friday evening performance in the Venice Performing Arts Center. Each day students will start in a full group for a performance, masterclass or demonstration. The rest of the afternoon is divided into four 45-minute sessions geared towards the students experience, age and instrument. There will also be a snack break provided. If the student doesn’t play an instrument, no problem, this will be a great opportunity to explore options and get started!

Dates: SECONDARY LEVEL WEEK June 6-10, 12-4pm, Grades 6-12. ELEMENTARY LEVEL WEEK June 13-17, 12-4pm, Grades K-5. Cost: $150 per week. Register: education@thevenicesymphony.org or 941-207-8822. 200 Field Ave., E., Venice.

YOUTH OPERA SUMMER CAMP

Sessions for 8-18 year olds. Learn

how fun opera is on and off the stage.

Designed for all skill levels, our annual camp engages young people in the

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magic of opera. A typical day includes Zoom and Youtube sessions in singing, acting, sets, props, wigs, make-up, and costumes, all led by professional singers, artists, directors, musicians, and technicians. No audition required, all skill levels are welcome. Dates: For ages 8-10: Session 1:June 13–17, Session 2: June 20–24; For ages 11-18: June 13–July 1.. Cost: For tuition cost and sign up information or if you have a general inquiry, email youthopera@ sarasotaopera.org Register: 941-3281307, youthopera@sarasotaopera.org, sarasotaopera.org/summer-camp. 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota.

NATURE | ANIMAL CAMPS FUR FUN SUMMER CAMP Ages 6-11 The Humane Society of Sarasota

County’s Fur Fun Camps are great for children who love animals. Whether they attend our periodic seasonal day camps in the fall, winter, and spring or our week-long summer sessions, or all of the above, children are sure to have fun unleashing their animal side at HSSC. Fur Fun Camps are designed for children ages 6-11. This year’s camp will be held on HSSC’s campus. Our Fur Fun Camp is five days, four hours each day. Campers will see and learn about shelter pets and other animals, both domestic and exotic. They will also listen to exciting speakers, get an inside look at the happenings in our facility, and learn how to train a dog. Dates: June 6–July 29, 1pm-5pm Cost: $200 per session and includes a HSSC T-shirt and afternoon snack, with a $15 discount for each additional sibling Register: 941-955-4131, hssc. org/pet-resource-hub/humane-education/fur-fun-camps 2331 15th St., Sarasota.

MOTE MARINE CAMP Grades K-8 Experience groundbreaking re-

search through exciting, interactive, and age-appropriate activities. Campers will learn about the marvels found in marine environments, continuing their knowledge in STEM education outside of the classroom. Campers will be divided into grade based groups: Dates: JTidal Tykes K-2, Aqua Kids 3-5, and Sea Sleuths 6-8. Dates:

Week 1: June 6 –10, Week 2: June 13– 17, Week 3: June 20-24, Week 4: June 27– July 1, Week 5: July 11–15, Week 6: July 18–22, Week 7: July 25-29, Week 8: August 1–5, Week 9: August 8–12.

Cost: $285 for non-members/$255 for members Register: 941-3884441 x324, camps@mote.org, mote. org/education/kids-families/summer-camps. Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota

SARASOTA JUNGLE GARDENS ZOO CAMP Ages 6-11 Sarasota

Jungle Gardens Zoo Camp is unlike any other camp in the area. It explores nature through hands-on games, crafts, animal demonstrations and other fun activities! Come explore behind the scenes as you learn about caring for animals. There’s lots of animal interactions and trekking through the jungle.

You’ll see firsthand what it takes to be a zookeeper. Dates: June 6–July 15, 9am-4pm, Week 1: Slithery & Scaly June 6–10, Week 2: Little Keepers June 13–17, Week 3: Conservation Station June 20–24, Week 4: Flying Fun June 27–July 1 Week 5: Jungle Adventure July 4–8 Week 6: Crazy Critters July 11-15 (Camp week themes and dates subject to change) Cost: $250/week Register: 941-355-1112, ext 307, marketing@sarasotajunglegardens.com, sarasotajunglegardens.com/zoocamp. 3701 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota

SELBY GARDENS SUMMER CAMP | DOWNTOWN SARASOTA AND HISTORIC SPANISH POINT CAMP LOOKOUT Camp

Lookout is designed for nature lovers entering first to fifth grade. Each week is packed with plenty of time in the great outdoors, wading in our waters and exploring our forests! Sessions 4 through 6 will be held at the Historic Spanish Point campus. BUDDING CREATIVES Explore Selby Gardens through a photographer’s lens! This week is all about photography, poetry, and looking at how nature inspires art. In this illuminating week, campers will experiment with a variety of techniques and unconventional materials to produce their own brilliant works of art. .Dates: June 6-10, Downtown Sarasota Campus. BAY BUCCANEERS

Arrrrrrrrgh you ready to get out your dip nets? Because it’s time to explore Sarasota Bay with a swashbuckling twist! Campers will explore the waters off of Selby Gardens’ coastline to search for the natural treasures that can be found in Sarasota Bay. Wade into our living laboratory to discover the adaptations that allow plants and animals to live in a watery world, and learn about how life on land affects life in the water. Dates: June 13-17, Downtown Sarasota Campus. BLOOMING NATURALISTS Ready for a STEM-ulating week of nature exploration? This week campers will grow their knowledge through the power of observation, from the soil to the sky. We will explore the world with our five senses, making new buds in the process.

Dates: June 20-25, Downtown Sarasota Campus. MIXED MEDIA MAKERS Do you love art? Campers will explore the connections between technology and contemporary art, comparing augmented and virtual reality. Investigating the theme of collaboration, campers will consider the roles artists play in informing our understanding of the world around us. Campers will experiment with a variety of mediums to produce their own exhibition. Because earth without “art” is “eh”! Dates: June 27 to July 1, Historic Spanish Point Campus. ADVENTURING ARCHAEOLOGISTS Can you spot the difference between an artifact and an artifake?

This week campers will dig into the science of archaeology and what it takes to be an archaeologist. Campers also will learn how people in the past utilized resources and how past actions impact the present and future.

Dates: July 4 to 8, Historic Spanish Point Campus. HARDY HOMESTEADERS Break out your two-wheeled carts, because it’s time to build your homestead! Campers will put their wilderness skills to the test as they learn how to survive as pioneers. Travel back in time with us! Dates: July 11 to 15, Historic Spanish Point Campus. Cost: Members: $180/week for the first child and $170/week for addition child.

9am-3pm; drop off starts at 8:30am.

Future Members: $240 week for the non-members and $220/week for members. Register: Email camps@ selby.org for more information.

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EXPLORE THE SCHOOL THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU | SPECIAL BRANDED CONTENT SECTION TO ROCKETKIDS SUMMER 2022

ST. MARTHA CATHOLIC SCHOOL

ST. MARTHA CATHOLIC SCHOOL (SMCS) in Sarasota

offers a challenging, faith-based academic experience to students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. “In an effort to serve God and our community, students, staff and families work together to maintain high academic standards, develop Christ-centered relationships, and provide stewardship to Sarasota and the surrounding areas,” a spokesperson for SMCS says. “Students have consistently performed in the top 20 percent across the nation year after year.” The school follows a STREAM

curriculum (an interdisciplinary, standards-based model that integrates science, technology, religion, engineering, arts and mathematics). Teachers design units of study that challenge and empower students, creating an environment that encourages problem-solving, collaboration, student-led inquiry and hands-on projects. A science lab, vegetable and prayer gardens, open fields and the Zazarino Center serve as dynamic learning spaces. The Catholic faith is woven into all subjects and grade levels, promoting a culture of innovation and ethical action.

School’s Mission

ST. MARTHA CATHOLIC SCHOOL 4380 FRUITVILLE ROAD, SARASOTA 941-953-4181 | STMARTHASCHOOL.NET INFO@STMARTHASCHOOL.NET

SERVES GRADES PRE-K-8

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In partnership with Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Catholic Church, the mission of St. Martha Catholic School is to provide each student with diverse opportunities which develop strength in faith, and excellence in knowledge and learning. Students build character through their Christian service to the school, parish and world communities.

@StMarthaCatholicSchool

@StMarthaCS

@SMCS_SRQ

ST. MARTHA CATHOLIC SCHOOL

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2022 Summer Camps

SUMMER VACATION IN THE PARKS CREEPY, CRAWLY, CRITTER

CAMP Ages 6-9 at Shamrock Park

Want to know more about bugs, snakes, owls and other critters? This camp provides in-depth exploration into where they live, what they eat, all the fun facts and gory details. Campers will learn about spiders, slimy and slippery amphibians and reptiles, the “good, the bad and the ugly” insects as well as how to identify skulls and wildlife paw prints.

Park naturalists will lead nature walks, conduct safaris and provide interactive presentations. Indoor activities include live “show and tell” specimens, owl pellet dissections and take-home crafts.

Campers should wear hats and closedtoe shoes and bring a plain white t-shirt to decorate, sunscreen, water and a snack each day. Dates: July 13-17. Cost: $75 FISHING CAMP | BEGINNERS FRESHWATER FISHING AND BOATING CAMP Ages 9-12, Twin Lakes Park Campers will have a great time learning freshwater fishing and boating skills while receiving hands-on instruction and in-boat experience! Supported in collaboration with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, this camp will focus on key angling and boating skills such as casting, netting, knot tying, motor instruction, oaring, launching and maneuvering vessels.

Anglers will get up close and personal with fish biology and cleaning, as well as practicing responsible angling methods.

This new camp will provide instruction for numerous key skills and techniques that anglers of all ages can use for years to come. Campers will receive a rod, reel and tackle box to take home.Limited to 20 campers. Dates: June 6–10, 8am-12pm Cost: $100 FISHING CAMP | ADVANCED FRESHWATER FISHING AND BOATING CAMP Ages 9-12, Twin Lakes Park This camp is designed for advanced anglers and boaters that want to refine their skills and increase their knowledge of advanced concepts.

Supported in collaboration with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, this camp will focus on advanced skills such as water navigation, fish identification, advanced casting techniques, fisheries management and fishing methods. Anglers will get up close and personal with fish biology and cleaning, as well as practicing responsi-

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ble angling methods. This camp will provide instruction for numerous key skills and techniques that anglers of all ages can use for years to come. Campers will receive a rod, reel and tackle box to take home. Dates: June 13–17, 8am-12pm Cost: $100 Register: scgov.net/parks

WINDSONG FARM EQUESTRIAN DAY CLINICS Ages 6-17

(girls) Young women will have a blast brushing up on riding skills, English, hunter jumper, dressage and even basic Western pleasure as well as gain confidence, work on leadership and discover natural horsemanship while earning a great respect for horses in a family environment with personalized instruction. Dates: June 5 to July 16 Cost: $425 for the week, 8:30am2:30pm. Register: 941-303-2534, Windsong Farm, 238 Lee Rd., Venice.

SCIENCE / TECHNOLOGY THE BISHOP MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND NATURE Ages 7-11.

Give your kids a summer of fun and adventure with The Bishop’s Summer Science Camp. Curious explorers ages 7-11 can enjoy up to seven weeks of camp with a different science theme each week. Campers will discover exciting topics through games, crafts, experiments, The Bishop’s exhibitions, and other resources. Dates: The Science of Magic (June 6–10),Rehab to the Rescue: Saving Species(June 13– 17), Astronaut Boot Camp (June 20– 24), Buggin Out (June 27–July 1),Tiny Jungles: An Exploration of ALl Things Small (July 5-8), Animal Superlatives: The Odd and the Extreme (July 11–15), Water: Wet and Wild (July 18 – 22), Grossology: All Things Yuck (July 25– 29), Archaeology: Discovering People from the Past (August 1–5). Camp runs 9am-4pm, Monday through Friday.

Cost: Members of the Discovery Society at the Innovator Level and above pay $200/week. All others pay $250.

Register: Contact Susan McCarthy at 941-746-4131, ext. 113 or email at SMcCarthy@southfloridamuseum.org. 201 10th St. W., Bradenton.

THE CODER SCHOOL SUMMER CODING CAMPS Ages 8-10+. Let’s

get ready for Coding Camps. Kids bring their own lunches and water bottles and The Coder School will take care of the rest. Kids code throughout the week then demo their week’s creations later that afternoon.

Dates: June 6— August 5, 9am-3pm, Monday through Friday: Raspberry Pi Jam: June 6 –10 (Skill Level: Int/Adv) Prerequisites: Some coding experience.

The Pi Jam camp introduces more advanced programmers to the world of IoT, or Internet of Things. As computers and technology expand like wildfire, you’ll find more and more computers in your “things” — like your watch, your smart home or even your refrigerator. These gadgets are all run by computers that are getting smaller and smaller. Pi Jam camp introduces kids to one of the hottest mini-computers today, the Raspberry Pi. Game Development: June 20–24 and July 25–29 (Skill Level: Beg/Int) Teachers will be using cool drag n’ drop languages like Scratch or Snap to create some cool new and classic games. Aimed at newbie and novice coders. WebRox: June 27–July 1 (Skill Level: Beg/Int) Prerequisites: Good typer. Our WebRox camp is all about websites, because the web rocks. Our campers will spend the week designing and building their very own websites and get ‘em published to the world by the end of the week. Importantly, kids will be introduced to Internet Safety and why cyber-safety matters, plus we’ll learn the basics of how the internet works (wait, you mean that Facebook page lives out in the “cloud” somewhere?!).

As usual, our Fridays are all about the demo, showing off the all cool website stuff the kids create! Minecraft: June 11–June 15 and August 1–5 (Skill Level: Beginner) Minecraft has taken the world over by surprise since it debuted in 2009. This camp combines the fun of Minecraft with teaching kids to code at the same time. Playing Minecraft is fun, but building, creating, and modifying your Minecraft agents and worlds through coding is a skill that can help our younger generation in any field they choose to pursue. Tell your Minecraft fan to get their Creepers and Magma Cubes ready for this camp!

Data Connector: July 18–22 (Skill Level: Int/Adv) Prerequisites: Good Typer, some Javascript experience is helpful but not necessary. Today’s computers are constantly connecting to each other, requesting all kinds of data. Need to get directions from Google? No problem. Find out the latest tweets? Sure.

Companies large and small today expose something called an Application Programming Interface (API) so apps can connect to their services (sometimes free, sometimes for a cost).

APIs are one of the most useful tools for professional programmers today, so get a head start by building your own data connections with an API at this camp! Cost: Raspberry Pi Jam is $594 (Includes Raspberry Pi 4). All other programs cost $495. Register: 941-355-2633, thecoderschool.com/ camps. 6293 Lake Osprey Dr,, Sarasota in Lakewood Ranch.

FAB LAB | SUNCOAST SCIENCE CENTER Grades 2-8 Weeklong

themed studies bring like-minded students and enthusiasts together for hands-on learning and experience— taking advantage of all the tools and state-of-the-art machines available at the Fab Lab. Areas of study include space science, chemistry, engineering challenges, building a brand, coding and design and more. EXPLORERS CAMP Grades 2-3 These camps are all about purposeful play. Kids will have a blast playing and exploring new interests through hands-on activities and making fun take-home projects. Select one of three camps in chemistry, engineering and robotics. STEAM SQUAD Grades 4-5 Through innovative and fun activities, challenges and use of high-tech machines, kids will level-up their learning and become part of the STEAM Squad! Select one of four camps in chemistry, coding and game design with scratch, electric engineering and robotics. MIDDLE SCHOOL MASTERCLASS Grades 6-8 MS Masterclasses will allow preteens and teens to elevate their experience and build skills that will come in handy in high school and beyond! Ready to level up and become a Level 10 master?! Select one of our four camps in brain benders, coding and game design and engineering bots. Dates: June 6–July 29. No camp

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July 4–8 Cost: $200/week. Register: 941-840-4394, info@suncoastscience. org. Suncoast Science Center, 4452 S. Beneva Rd., Sarasota.

SCF CODING ACADEMY Rising Grades 2-12 This STEM camp allows

students to learn about science, robotics and technology through hands-on activities. Each week has a different focus or theme for each age group, ensuring age appropriate activities for campers. ELEMENTARY CAMP Rising Grades 2-5 Hands-on STEM camps with four rotations each day: science experiments, Minecraft, drones, and robotics. Themes and curriculum focus will change weekly. Dates: Week 1: June 6–10; Week 2: June 13–17; Week 3: June 20–24; Week 4:June 27–July 1; Week 5: July 4–8 NO CAMP; Week 6: July 11–15; Week 7: July 18–22. Drop off is at 7:45, camp is 8am-12pm. Cost: $175/week, SCF Lakewood Ranch Campus, CIT Building, 7131 Professional Pkwy E. Lakewood Ranch. MIDDLE SCHOOL AND HIGH SCHOOL CAMPS Grades 5-12 For each camp, campers will engage in relevant hands-on activities that include robotics, engineering, coding, simulation and modeling, drones, 3D printing, laser cutting, vinyl cutting and immersive virtual environments. Campers will understand the safety requirements needed to responsibly use tools in a lab. Each week of camp will have a different focus and different activities. These varying topics are explored through project-based learning. By the end of each week, campers will have built and programmed either robots, drones, or virtual worlds created to solve real-world problems. Weekly field trip for career exploration and discussion on careers in STEM and the academic requirements. Dates: Week 1: June 13–17, Middle School Robotics and Engineering Camp; Week 2: June 20–24, Middle School Drones and Engineering Camp; Week 3: June 27–July 1, 5-9 Grade All Girls Manufacturing and Design Camp Week 4: July 11–15, High School Manufacturing and Engineering Camp; Week 5: July 18–22, Middle School and High School Emerging Technology Camp Cost: $200/week, 8am-4pm. Register: 941-752-5285, coding@scf.edu, scf.edu/ kids SCF Bradenton Campus, 26 West Center, 5480 26th St. W., Bradenton.

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SUMMER IN THE PARKS SNAPOLOGY at Nokomis Beach

Park AMUSEMENT PARK ADVENTURES ENGINEERING Ages 6-14 Design your own amusement park in this super fun program! Learn how to use LEGO® bricks and other building materials to make coasters and other awesome rides. Can you design the next Disney World? Dates: June 27–July 1, 9am-12pm Cost: $200 BATTLE ROBOTICS Ages 7-14 In this exciting class, children will begin to explore the world of robotics as they build simple models that teach the fundamentals of robotic design. Students will build a variety of military inspired robotic models. Children will learn about sensors, gears, pulleys, and programming as they create robotic catapults, crossbows, battleships and much more. Dates: May 31–June 3, 9am-12pm. Cost: $200 CASTLES, KINGDOMS AND WIZARDS Ages 6-13 Who wouldn’t want to escape and play in the world of magic, fairytales and royalty? In Snapology’s Castles and Kingdoms program, students will have the opportunity to use LEGO® bricks to design their medieval fantasies while also bringing the real history to life! Yes, your student will do more than just build with LEGO® bricks, they will build their historical understanding of the unique elements that make the medieval time period such a fascinating point in human history. Dates: June 20–24, 1–4pm Cost: $150 CREATURE CREATOR ROBOTICS Ages 6-13 In Snapology’s Creature Creator Robotics class, your animal lover will create their own animal inspired robotic models. Students will learn about gear ratio, sensors, simple machines and programming as they build insects, dolphins, gorillas and much more. Your child is sure to have a wild time as they build, learn and play. Dates: July 11–15, 9am-12pm Cost: $200 DEVELOPING ENGINEERS – MECHANICAL MASTERMINDS Ages 7-14 Is your student inquisitive, a problem-solver, a big-thinker, a tinkerer, a puzzler, a LEGO® lover, or a budding engineer? If so, they’re the perfect fit for Snapology’s Developing Engineers: Mechanical Masterminds program.

This program gives your student the tools they need to understand me-

chanical movement through the foundations of simple machines, physics and engineering design. They will see moving parts up-close as they follow instructions to build various machines and they will then use the models to develop new design ideas, test out physics concepts, and even play games with their partners and classmates.

Dates: June 13–17, 9am-12pm Cost: $200 GAMEBOTS ROBOTICS–BEGINNER CODING Ages 7-14 Calling all gamers! Have a blast creating robotic games each week while learning about robotics. Students will learn about gear ratio, sensors, programming and pulleys as they create fun-to-play games. Whether creating a robotic hockey player, pinball machine, or a ring toss, your child is sure to have fun building, learning and playing. Dates: July 18–22, 9am-12pm Cost: $200 MINING AND BUILDING (MINECRAFT BASED) Ages 6-13 Travel to the Nether with Snapology but watch out for those creepers! Come join us as we bring Minecraft® to life using LEGO® bricks. Create your own world, including animals, creepers and your very own Minecraft® character. Dates: June 27–July 1, 1pm-4pm Cost: $150 MOVIE FAVORITES Ages 6-13 Bring your favorite animated movies to life using LEGO® bricks in the super fun camp.

Movies such as “Toy Story,” “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Lion King,” “Onward,” “Frozen” and “Trolls” will be recreated using imagination and LEGO® bricks. Don’t miss out. Dates: June 13– 17, 1pm–4pm Cost: $150 POKÉMANIA Ages 6-13 Come join Snapology for Pokémania. Students will build and explore the world of Pokémon as they create their own gyms, battles and even their very own generation of Pokémon. Children will also learn about real world science as they learn about the habitats of the Pokémon.

Your child will have a blast becoming the best Pokémon trainer ever. Dates: May 31–June 3, 1pm–4pm Cost: $150 ROBLOX Ages 6-13 Does your student love playing or designing in Roblox?

Is there a game they just can’t seem to get enough of? In this Snapology workshop, students will recreate and explore their favorite Roblox adventures by using LEGO® bricks to create interactive games! From designing

an Obby to building a 3-D character skin, students will be fully immersed in the gameplay and game design of Roblox! Dates: July 18–22, 1pm-4pm Cost: $150 SPACE WARS ROBOTICS Ages 7-14 Robotics inspired by Star Wars® and space travel! Come on an adventure building and programming functional robots using LEGO® bricks in this super-fun program. Learn about space, space travel and, of course, Star Wars®! Build different robots each day! Learning is enhanced through the use of laptops in this class! Dates: June 20–24, 9am-12pm Cost: $200 SUPERSTRUCTURES Ages 6-13 All buildings, from the Empire State Building to the house next door, started as an idea in an architect’s head. Students will learn how to take an idea from their head and turn it into a building in the real world. They will be guided through the building process, from creating a floor plan to disaster-proofing the structure, so that they will be able to create the next best thing in LEGO® architecture. Dates: July 11–15, 1pm–4pm Cost: $150 WONDERFUL WIZARDS Ages 6-13 Be transported into the secretive world of wizards and witches in Snapology’s wizarding program, inspired by the Harry Potter™ film series! In this program, students will explore their favorite aspects of the film series by exploring all that makes Hogwarts and learning magic so magical. Students will create the castle they love, make maps to navigate it, be sorted into their house and repeatedly express the pride of their house. This class will spark their imaginations and encourage creative reasoning in new ways, allowing them to build amazing things they have only dreamed of before. Dates: August 1–5, 1pm-4pm Cost: $150. Campers should bring water and a snack daily if they need one. Register Online: For questions about the program, email rachelc@snapology.com. For registration questions, call 941-861–PARK (7275), scgov.net/parks.

THE OUT-OF-DOOR ACADEMY STEM CAMPS ODA’s STEM Camps

offer students the chance to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in unique and fun ways.

Students of all ages can experience

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hands-on, project-based learning through all-inclusive STEM camps.

CHEMISTRY LAB Rising Grades 1-6 An exciting week of: Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry: Hogwarts Initiation, Harry Potter LEGOMasters, Magic Water, Ice, Fire Spells —Chemistry Building Blocks: Atomic Timeline, Elements, Compounds, Protein Construction—Mad Science Lab: Bond-Chemical Bond, Chemical Reactions, Plant Reactions, Medicine —Chemistry Careers: Toxic Chemist, Chemical Engineering, Cosmetic Chemists, Artistic Chemists—CSI Crime Scene Forensic Lab Investigation: STEMania’s Pugsy was Stolen! Eliminate 12 Different Suspects by using 12 Forensics Tests. Dates: July 11–15, 9am3pm Cost: $300/week. ENGINUITY CAMP Rising Grades 1-6 Daily STEM Warrior Challenges: Minute to Win It, Boat Race, Crazy Fort, Marble Run, Egg Drop—Think Like da Vinci: Mega Machines, Engineering Process, Engineering Math, Retro Engineering —Design Engineering: Builders in Action, LEGO Bridges, Building Bridges, Support Structures—Buildings: Colossal Cities, Architectural, Civil, Arcology —Physics: Catapult, Energy, Magnets, Gravity— Newton’s 3 Laws of Motion: Ramps and Slides, Inertia, F = m x a, Action and Reaction. Dates: June 20–24, 9am3pm Cost: $300/week. LEGOMANIA Rising Grades 1-8 Minecraft, New York City, Treehouse, Disney World, Sea World, Peter Pan’s Flight, Atlantis, Shipwreck, Ocean Odyssey, Labyrinth Kingdom, Ancient Greece, Aqueducts, Pokemon, Superheroes vs. Villains, How to Train Your Dragon. Dates: June 13–17, 9am-3pm Cost: $300/ week. SPACE CAMP Rising Grades 1-6 Solar System: LEGOMaster Solar System, Space Science, Inner Solar Systems, Outer Solar Systems–SpaceX Rocket Challenge: Future of Rockets, Rocket Construction, Rocket Propulsion & Launch, Moon Landing, Earth Re-Entry–Space Careers: Classical Astronomers, Modern Astronomers, Astronauts, Astronauts vs. Aquanauts –Mission Mars & Life in Space: Toys in Space, LEGOMaster Star Wars, International Space Station, Future Space Stations, LEGOMasters Mission Mars, Martian Base and Extraterrestrial

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Colonization – Space Technology: The Very Big and Very Small, Telescopes/ Photography, Mars Perseverance Rover, Aerospace Engineering Dates: July 18–22, 9am-3pm Cost: $300/ week. EXTREME EXPLORERS Rising Grades 1-6 Extreme Survivors: I Survived Water, Air, Earth, Fire!; Tsunamis, Hurricane Chasers; It Rocks–Earthquakes, Volcanic Eruptions – Extreme Designers: Balloonatics, Zipline Parks, BioMedical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering – Extreme Adventurers: Arctic Explorer, Mountaineers, Physics of Extreme Sports, Sahara Scavenger Hunt – Extreme STEM Scientists: Famous Geneticists, Renaissance Scientists, Charles Darwin, Einstein – Extreme STEM LEGOMasters: Mount Everest, Amazon Rainforest, Disaster Blaster, Treasure Hunter Dates: June 24—July 1, 9am-3pm Cost: $300/week. VIDEO GAME DESIGN Ri sing Grades 2-5 Don’t just play games, learn how to create them. Campers will use both the Kodu and GameMaker game creation software applications to create and program their own PC-based video games. They will learn about sprites, objects, events, and actions. No experience is necessary and all equipment including laptops is provided. Dates: July 11–15, 9am–5pm Cost: $200/ week. Register: Online oda.edu. Camps take place the Uihlein Campus in Lakewood Ranch, 5950 Deer Dr., Sarasota.

SPORTS CAMPS CAPOKIDS MARTIAL ARTS SUMMER CAMP Ages 3-5 and

grades K-5 Teachers and counselors

are ready to provide children with the best time throughout the whole summer. There are four options depending on the location and age of the child.

CapoKids offers the experience of a lifetime for any kids who want to attend a Sarasota summer camp. Dates: Throughout the summer. Register: 941-922-4520, capokids.com. McIntosh Location: 4672 McIntosh Ln., Sarasota.

Phillippi Location: 2240 Proctor Rd., Sarsota. Lakewood Ranch Location: 11534 Palmbrush Trl., Lakewood Ranch.

EVO ATHLETICS SUMMER CAMP All ages. Campers enjoy all

that EVO has to offer: Ninja warrior, volleyball, gymnastics, cheerleading, trampolines, foam pits, STEM enrichment, games, crafts, field trip(s) and much more! Activities for all interests and ages. Your child’s safety is our top priority. When choosing a camp, choose the one that invests in the highest level of safety possible. All EVO employees receive background screening above & beyond industry standards, CPR and First Aid licensing. Campers should bring lunch, athletic shoes and a water bottle. Dates: May 31– August 5, 8am5pm. Cost: $55 for the day, $250 for the week; 10 percent sibling discount for second child. Must be registered the Wednesday before the week OR pay a $25 drop-in registration fee. Register: 941-222-0888, evoathletics.com/programs/camps. 7188 15th St. E, Sarasota.

LAKEWOOD RANCH GOLD AND COUNTRY CLUB SUMMER CAMP TENNIS AND SPORTS Ages

4-12 This camp includes tennis, swim-

ming and other group sport activities.

Various arts and crafts are also part of this innovative and dynamic camp.

Dates: May 31 to August 5, 9am-2pm.

Cost: Members: $190/week or $60/ day. Non-members: $250/week or $70/ day. Register: tammy.clark@lakewoodranchgolf.com. COUNTRY CLUB SUMMER GOLF CAMP Ages 6-15 PGA Golf instruction for kids including full swing, short game, putting, etiquette, rules and play on golf course. Lunch, snacks and refreshments are provided daily.

Dates: May 31 to August 5, 9am-4pm.

Cost: Members: $275/week. Non-members: $350/week or $70/day. One-time $25 registration fee. Register: Call 941.907.4710 or email LWRgolfcamps@ LakewoodRanchGolf.com. GOLF ACADEMY ADVANCED SUMMER GOLF CAMP Ages Up to 15 For players who are more focused on taking their games to the next level. We will integrate Trackman, Flightscope, Swing Catalyst and additional technology to augment our PGA Professionals and their teaching methods. This camp will concentrate on improving technique and will include playing golf with instructors as part of the daily curriculum. Lunch, snacks and

refreshments are provided daily. Dates: May 31 to August 5, 9am-4pm. Cost: Members: $350/week. Non-members: $425/week or $70/day. One-time $25 registration fee. Register: Call 941-9074710 or email lwrgolfcamps@lakewoodranchgolf.com

RED TIGER MARTIAL ARTS

Ages 3 and up If you want your child

to have a blast each day, then you have come to the right place. Staff teaches confidence, discipline and respect in all of our awesome programs.

Daily activities include martial arts, yoga, tumbling, educational/brain games, arts and crafts, problem solving and much more. You will love this Martial Arts program that will teach your child about safety and anti-bullying techniques. Fun, safe and friendly self defense martial arts training are taught daily. Your child will come home tired after tumbling, yoga and parkour classes. These programs will teach your child coordination, flexibility, balance, strength, speed and agility. This is not a daycare, county park or babysitter. As a student or camper, your child becomes part of the Red Tiger family which focuses on creating tomorrow’s leaders, your child’s success in life, school and home. Dates: May 31–August 5. Camp will be held on weekdays, 8am-6pm. No camp July 4–8. Cost: $199/week. A $50 non refundable deposit is due at time of sign-up. Register: 941-922-2530, redtigerma.com/summercamp. 4581 Ashton Rd., Sarasota.

ROSAIRE’S RIDING ACADEMY AND PONY RIDES SUMMER CAMP Ages 8 and up Children can

learn horse riding skills and techniques in a safe environment with all adult instructors. Rosaire’s works with the Sarasota County Fairs Department and has a perfect safety record.

Kids will have fun interacting with the animals and learning an empowering new skill at camp. Dates: June 6 to August 5, 8:30am-4pm Cost: $350/ week or $1100/month (four consecutive weeks) Register: Ellian Rosaire, 941-356-3993, rideapony@msn.com, rideapony.com/camps/4717807. 901 East Rd., Sarasota.

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SARASOTA CREW SUMMER CAMPS Grades 3-12. Elementary

school students, middle school students and high school students are invited to register for camp, even if you are a new rower. Rowers are grouped by age and skill level. Dates: Session 1: June 6—June 17; Session 2: June 20— July 1; Session 3: July 18—29; Monday-Friday, 8am-12pm (High School Clinic will begin at 7:30am). Cost: Summer Camp: $250 for a two week session; Middle School Clinic: $400 for a two week session; High School Clinic: $800 per two week session.

Register: 941-966-9791, teamadmin@ sarasotaCrew.org, sarasotacrew.org/ programs/camps/summercamp. 343 Palmetto Way, Osprey.

SARASOTA SCULLERS SUMMER CAMP When you come to a

summer program at the Sarasota Scullers, among other things, you’ll learn from highly trained and experienced coaches who bring enthusiasm and tremendous knowledge to each session, have a blast and enjoy the training, the competition and make new friends who all share this passion for rowing, and be a part of a cohesive team as an athlete and experience what it is like to compete against some of the highest rated talent in the country. LEARN HOW TO ROW CAMP Grades 6-12. Interested in rowing?

Not sure about this new sport? You’ll learn everything you need to know about rowing and have a great time.

You’ll find new friends and a new you.

Dates: June 6—10, June 20–24, or July 11–15, 7:30am-11:30am. Cost: $125 per session. SUMMER ROWING Grades 6-12, previous rowing experience is a must.. The full summer session is designed for experienced rowers and prepares them for the upcoming fall season. Rowers will help with summer camp and train hard to be ready for the fall.. Dates: June 6–July 30, high schoolers run Monday through Friday, 6:45am-9am (mixture of water and land, at coach’s discretion), middle schoolers run Monday, Tuesday and Friday 6:45am-9am Cost: Cost based on high school or middle school age. High school: $285/month, middle

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school: $185/month. New to scullers will have registration fees added.

Register: 941-966-2244, office@sarasotascullers.org, sarasotascullers.org.

800 Blackburn Point Road, Osprey.

SARASOTA YOUTH SAILING CAMP Different levels of classes

available for the age ranges of 5-7, 7-12, 8-12, and 13-18 Different levels

of classes available for the specified age ranges. Campers must be sure to bring a well-fitting life jacket with a whistle, closed-toed shoes, a water bottle, a hat or sunglasses, sunscreen, a towel and clothes that can get wet.

Watersport helmets are recommended. Dates: May 31 to August 5. Cost: Runs as a biweekly half-day schedule (morning or afternoon) for $400 or you can do full days for two weeks for $800; limited number of scholarships available.

Register: 941-504-4236, sarasotayouthsailing.org/programs/ summer-camp-2020. 1717 Ken Thompson Pkwy., Sarasota.

SURFIT PADDLEBOARD AND SURF SUMMER CAMPS Ages

7-14. Paddleboard, surf and beach

summer camps are weeklong all summer long. SURFit incorporates standup paddleboarding, surfing, ocean swimming, ocean safety, and marine biology into every camp day (weather permitting). Classes are led by certified lifeguards and have a low teacher to student ratio (1:6). Many kids sign up for more than one week because camp is a lot of fun. Dates: Camps at Turtle Beach on Siesta Key: May 31–June 3 (no camp on Monday),June 6—10, June 13—17, June 20— 24, and June 27– July 2; Camps at Lido Beach: July 5—8, July 11-15, Camps at Lido Mangrove Tunnels: July 18–22; Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 12:30pm with extended day options offered at Turtle Beach until 3:30pm Cost: $215/week for regular day students and $300/week for extended day students Register: 941-952-8245, surfitusa.com/kids-waterman-sup-and-surf-camps-summer Turtle/Siesta Beach and Lido Beach/ Ted Sperling Park.

SUMMER VACATION IN THE PARKS ARCHERY CAMP Ages 8-16

at Knight Trail Park Campers learn the art of archery through expert instruction by certified USA Archery coaches from the Lekatchka Archery Club. This introduction covers the mechanics of traditional and compound bows, 3-D shooting, Olympic archery and competition shooting. All equipment is provided. Campers should bring water and a snack daily. Dates: June 20—24 and July 11—15, 9am12pm Cost: $90/week Register: 941861-PARK (7275), lekatchkaarchery@ yahoo.com, scgov.net/parks. VOLLEYBALL CAMP Ages: 8-15 at Siesta Beach Volleyball Courts Campers will master the fundamentals, develop proper mechanics and gain game play experience in this camp directed by Megan Wallin, a professional volleyball player. Coaches cover the rules, player rotation and zones. Megan has a hands-on coaching style with a philosophy that practice creates performance perfection. Your camper’s performance as an athlete will skyrocket, along with his or her self confidence.

Open to players of all ability levels.

Shade tents provided. Dates: June 6–10, 8:30am-12pm Cost: $125/week PICKLEBALL CAMP Ages: 9-14, Englewood Sports Complex, 1300 S River Rd, Englewood. Learn all the basic skills and rules to the popular game of pickleball. Campers will experience the game by playing both indoors and outdoors with instruction provided by 5.0 USAPA Rated Player Sarah Saari with Viking Pickleball. Loaner paddles are available and bring sunscreen and water. Camp must meet minimum registration. Dates: June 6–10, 1pm-4pm Cost: $65/week SKATEBOARD CAMP Ages: 7-14 at Payne Park Skate Park Come shred Sarasota’s Payne Park this summer with the Compound Boardshop Skate Team. Go from dropping in and work your way up to the more advanced stuff, like board slides, grinds and airs.

This camp is great for everyone, from the newest of beginners to the most advanced skaters. There’s a teacher perfect for every skill level. Take your skating to a whole new level this summer. No equipment? No problem!

Loaner equipment available by calling the Compound Boardshop in advance at 941-923-0430. Dates: June 20–24, 8am-12pm Cost: $225/week Register: scgov.net/parks.

THE OUT-OF-DOOR ACADEMY SPORTS CAMPS Grades: 1-6. The

Out-of-Door Summer Academy features specialized individual specialty sport camps where student-athletes can learn a new sport or improve their skills. We also offer our popular Thunder All-Sports Day Camp for an experience with a variety of team sports.

FULL DAY THUNDER SPORTS CAMP We invite you to come experience Sarasota’s most exciting sports camp!

Our goal is to provide your child with a well-rounded experience in the world of sports. We focus on developing not only athletic skills, but what it means to be a team player, what it takes to be a leader, and the importance of integrity in sports. Team building and good sportsmanship take center stage. Dates: June 13–17, June 20–24, June 21–25, June 27–July 1, July 11--15, and July 18–22, from 9am–3pm (full day) Cost: $225/week, extended care is available for the Thunder Sports Camp at a rate of $50 per week. Register: 941-554-3400, oda.edu Uihlein Campus in Lakewood Ranch.

THEATER AND PERFORMING ARTS CAMPS ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE SUMMER SESSIONS Ages 6-14

Looking for exciting adventures for your Young Artist? Asolo Rep Education & Engagement has in-person camps, online classes, and opportunities to create magical memories this summer .ARTISTIC ADVENTURES Ages 6-7. Encourages students to dream big and experience bold new stories as they build teamwork and creative problem-solving skills through theater. COURAGEOUS CREATING Ages 8-10. This camp introduces students to storytelling structures and drama skills as they bring stories and characters to life. Themes will include Quest!, Miniature Worlds, Do Different! and Campamento Encanto. THE-

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ATREMAKERS Ages 11-14. Students learn about the methods of theatrical storytelling, ignite a creative fire and see the world through new eyes. Students are invited to “explode stories,” looking at every aspect of the theater development process, including performance, design, writing, building and more. Dates: July 11–August 5. Cost: $175/week. Register: Call 941-3518000, email education@asolo.org or online at asolorep.org/engage-learn.

5555 N. Tamiami Tr., Sarasota.

CIRCUS SUMMER CAMP Ages 6-15 Circus Summer Campers enjoy

a truly unique experience where they learn circus arts disciplines and then showcase their new skills with a costumed performance with family invited to watch. Circus Summer Campers learn a variety of circus arts including triple and single trapeze, globes, silks, Rola Bola, hula hoop, low wire, clowning, flying trapeze, juggling and much more. Dates: June 6—August 5, Monday to Friday 9am-3pm. Cost: $350 for a 1-week session; $700 for a 2-week session. Register: 941-355-9335 ext.

307circusarts.org/programs/circussumme-camp. Sailor Circus Arena, 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota at the Circus Arts Conservatory

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FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE

LITTLE THEATRE Ages 5-6 This camp experience is dedicated to the exploration of storytelling, songs and creative play. Little Theatre emphasizes acting and includes music and dance. A final performance will be held for family and friends. Dates: Session One: June 6—24; Session Two: July 5—22, 9am-1pm. Little Theatre: Introduction Week Session One: May 31–June 3, 9am–1:30pm; Session Two: June 27–July 1 9am-1pm. Cost: $345/session and Introduction Week is $140/session CHILDREN’S PERFORMING ARTS CAMP Ages 7-12 Florida Studio Theatre’s original and most popular summer camp. Students will build skills with acting, improvisation and dance in a supportive environment. The camp experience focuses on individual expression and develops personal skills that campers can apply off the stage. The session culminates in a final performance. Dates: Session

One: June 6–24; Session Two: July 18-August 5, 10am-3pm; Intro to Theatre: All The World’s A Stage (one week) Session One: May 31–June 3 9am– 2:30pm; Session Two: July 11-July 15, 9am-2pm. Cost: Children’s Performing Arts Camp is $525/session and All The World’s A Stage is $185/session. TEEN PERFORMING ARTS CAMP Ages 13-17 The class will focus on exploration of characters, developing truth on stage and the individual expression of each participant. A final performance will be held for family and friends on the last day of class. Dates: Teen Performing Arts Camp (three weeks) Session One: May 31–June 17; Session Two: July 11–July 29, 10:15am-3:15pm; Teen Improv (one week) Session One: August 1–5, 10am-2pm; Young Performers Company (three weeks) June 20–July 8, 10am-4pm. Cost: Teen Performing Arts Camp is $525/session, Teen Improv is $185/session and Young Performers Company is $525/session Register: 941-366-9017, info@ floridastudiotheatre.org, floridastudiotheatre.org/youth-workshops. 1241 N Palm Ave., Sarasota.

MUSICAL THEATRE CAMPS AT THE PLAYERS CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS Ages 8-17

Let The Players transform your child’s summer into something magical and rewarding. Learn acting techniques, audition etiquette, singing, dancing and backstage technical elements. This fun and exciting camp mixes lots of laughs, games and field trips. There are two four-week camp sessions and one-week camp offerings to choose from. Camp takes place from 9:30am-2:30pm, Monday to Friday. There is a $30 supply fee per session. Dates and Cost: Session I: June 1 to June 26 $500/Four Weeks. Session II: July 6 to July 31 $500/Four Weeks. Sessions I & II: June 1 to July 31 $900/Eight Weeks.

Performances: Session I: Guys and Dolls, Jr. | Friday, June 26 at 7pm.

Session II: Disney’s The Little Mermaid. | Friday, July 31 at 7pm. Tickets $15 each. Non-refundable deposit of $100 per session required. Register: 941-365-2494. theplayers.org/studio/#tab-summer. Musical Theatre Camps are located at The Players

Centre, 838 N. Tamiami Trl. Dance Camps and Mini Camps are located at The Players Studio, 1400 Boulevard of the Arts, Suite 200, Sarasota.

VENICE

THEATRE

CAMPS

Grades K-12 Venice Theatre offers a

variety of summer camps for students of all ages! Camps are divided into age appropriate programs. THEATER EXTRAVAGANZA FOR GRADES K-2 Grades K-12 Theatre Fun for Little Stars! This in-person 2-week camp is for students in grades K-2. They will experience the joy of theater, build acting skills and most importantly - have fun.

Dates: May 31–June 10, 1-4pm Cost: $233 THEATER IN A BLENDER Grades 6-12 In this unique 2-week class, instructors Scott and Carrie will guide students as they write, create, cast, direct, build their technical elements, and perform their pieces. Students will demonstrate their work in the MainStage Jervey Theatre on Friday, June 10 at 7:30 pm. Dates: May 31–June 10, 8:30am-12:30pm Cost: $280. MUSICAL THEATER EXPERIENCE -GODSPELL JR. Grades 5-12 Prepare ye for the timeless tale of friendship, loyalty and love based on the Broadway musical that inspired a generation.” An exciting opportunity for students in grades 5-12 to perform in a fully-produced musical in VT’s MainStage Jervey Theatre! This 5-week musical theatre intensive is designed for actors, singers, and dancers of all levels.

Students will experience everything from auditions through a 5-show run.

Dates: June 9–August 7, 1-4:30pm Cost: $495. Register: 941-486-8679, venicetheatre.org/vt-education. 140 Tampa Ave. W, Venice.

STAGE OF DISCOVERY WESTCOAST BLACK THEATRE TROUPE Ages 13-18 A limited num-

An audition is required, contact WBTT Education Director Jim Weaver. Dates: June 13– July 17 Cost: Free for participants. Register: 941-404-7718, jweaver@westcoastblacktheatre.org, westcoastblacktheatre.org. 1012 N Orange Ave., Sarasota.

MUSICAL THEATRE CAMPS AT THE PLAYERS CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS Ages 8-17

Let The Players transform your child’s summer into something magical and rewarding. Learn acting techniques, audition etiquette, singing, dancing and backstage technical elements.

This fun and exciting camp mixes lots of laughs, games and field trips. There is one four-week camp session and one-week camp offerings to choose from.There is a $30 supply fee per session. Dates: Mini Camps for ages 5-10 will cost $160/ week. Themes include: Week 1: June 6–10 Pirates and Mermaids, Week 2: June 13–17 Pet Parade, Week 3: June 20–24 Marvel Heroes, Week 4: June 27–July 1 Into The Jungle, Week 5: July 11–15 Summer at the Movies, Week 6: July 18–22 Lego, Week 7: July 25–29 Vampires & Zombies, Week 8: August 1–5 Space.

There will be a “In”formance for parents every Friday. The 4-Week Musical Theatre Camp is for ages 8–17 and will take place July 11–August 5. Cost: $530, including the supply fee. Performances will be August 4–5 at 7pm and will cost $15. Register: 941-365-2494. theplayers.org/studio/#tab-summer. Musical Theatre Camp is located at The Players Centre located in the Crossings at Siesta Key Mall at 3501 S. Tamiami Trl, Mini Camps are located at The Players Studio, 1400 Boulevard of the Arts, Suite 200, Sarasota.

ber of students have the opportunity to be coached in acting, singing, dancing and improvisation by creative professionals in the field. They also gain behind-the-scenes experience with set and costume design. The program culminates with a public performance of an original musical. Stage of Discovery is intense, focused and fun. It’s designed for youth who are serious about developing their artistic talents.

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BRADENTON AREA + THE BARRIER ISLANDS | LIVE LOCAL, LOVE LOCAL

PUBLISHED BY SRQ MEDIA | SPRING 2022

LIVING BRADENTON AREA TM

FIVE HOT NEIGHBORHOODS KEY ROYALE | DOWNTOWN BRADENTON NORTHWEST BRADENTON | RIVERVIEW BOULEVARD | THE RIVER DISTRICT

ANNA MARIA ISLAND

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Below: Five neighborhoods in the Bradenton area are getting hotter by the minute. Find out where the real estate heat is.

May/June 2022

LIVING BRADENTON AREA TM

Bradenton Neighborhoods Thriving The joy of the Bradenton lifestyle truly comes into view in the five neighborhoods that we celebrate in this edition of Living Bradenton Area. We put special focus on the friendly porches of the Bradenton River District, water-access of the Riverview Boulevard, and the vibrant urgency of Downtown Bradenton, among others, but it’s really the marvelous mixture that makes Bradenton the hometown that it is. Our new neighbors are flooding into Bradenton from places far north, and it is beholden on us to welcome them, and at the same time, showcase the wonderful lifestyle that we already enjoy. It’s hard to find a true local on the Gulfcoast (although we do exist!) and maybe that is part of why our communities tend to be so welcoming. Most people remember when they were the newly arrived snowbird, changing plumagetrading heavy jackets for short sleeves. So next time you are in a hometown favorite like Oscura Cafe, if you see a car pull up with plates from far away, maybe introduce yourself to a new Bradenton family and let them in on the promenades and haunts that make our gorgeous coast “home” for you.

W E S R O B E R T S SRQ MEDIA | Executive Publisher

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LIVING BRADENTON AREA

WRITTEN BY DYLAN CAMPBELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY WYATT KOSTYGAN

Back in Action

For many restaurants across the country, the COVID-19 pandemic was catastrophic. But for Oscura Café, Bradenton-favorite coffee shop and live music venue, the slow down of business turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It offered a chance for renewal and transformation—for the quaint coffee shop to blossom into something that would allow it to fulfill its full potential as a cultural hub in Bradenton.

“OUR ORIGINAL SPACE WAS VERY OLD BUT POLISHED IN WAYS THAT MADE IT QUAINT. We had restored the

original terrazzo floors from when it was Foster’s Drug Store and had leaned into a minimalistic aesthetic which worked well with the very large windows that surrounded the building. An old PA that I used to practice with once upon a time served as our every-day equipment,” says Ben Greene, one of Oscura Cafe’s original owners.

When their lease on their original location was up in November of 2020, co-owners and longtime friends, Ben Greene and Keith Nasewicz, didn’t renew it. Instead, they shut down operations and took some time to breathe, with one simple promise to their loyal customers: “This isn’t goodbye, this is see you later.”

“We just thought there’s really no point in resigning and going through it—we were already looking for something larger. Our cafe’s food and beverage programs were doing well, but our biggest draw was our live events,” says Greene. “We were packing out every concert and event.”

The turning point had occurred during a sold-out show prior to the pandemic. “On December 22, 2019, we put on a show featuring Worst Party Ever, Photofire, Camp Trash, Cherish This and a few others,” shares Greene. “Usually, a packed show for us was around 100-150 people, but this show was well into the 200plus range and we had to limit our capacity. We sold out of beer within a couple hours, we were serving food until we had to stop as the crowd began dancing, which caused us to brace the partition wall from falling over.”

That overflow, coupled with the downtime of the pandemic, led to the reimagining of Oscura at its new location (816 Manatee Ave E, in the burgeoning Bradenton neighborhood of Old Manatee). Greene and Nasewicz partnered with Ben Bakker, Wade Hamilton and Richard Krause to bring their vision of a larger, more live-event oriented, Oscura to life. Bakker and Hamilton are board members of Realize Bradenton—the nonprofit dedicated to revitalizing downtown Bradenton—and also contributed to launching Independent Jones, a

Left to right: Ben Greene and Keith Nasewicz clink glasses to celebrate Oscura’s reimagined new location in downtown Bradenton—replate with a locally sourced menu and beverage program, not to mention industrialcool, modern-rustic renovations.

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LIVING BRADENTON AREA local live music and entertainment company. Krause is the owner of local company Richards Plumbing and Electric. “It was like this perfect assembly of forces. The other partners were regulars at the shop—they saw the potential in us and were willing to align themselves to make it happen,” says Greene.

To fulfill Oscura’s full potential, however, required a radical transformation—from quaint, local coffee shop to full scale live entertainment venue. Oscura’s new location, at 3,000 sq-ft, is more than double the size of the original cafe. Replete with a full bar and stage, the space is much more suitable for live events. “You walk through our main doors and the first thing you see is just this giant stage,” says Greene. “It’s a venue first, that also has a decorated food and beverage program.”

With Greene and some of the other partners having experience in the live music industry, it was important to them that the new location was as musician-friendly as possible. “We really dialed in on the music equipment and the stage itself,” he says. “We have a green room that’s actually attached to the stage. It’s curated for convenience and quality for these musicians.”

The expansion to the new location doesn’t just benefit Oscura’s ability to host live events, however. While maintaining Oscura’s beloved lineup of coffees, teas and non-alcoholic drinks, the addition of a fully-stocked liquor bar allows Nasewicz to build upon a repertoire of low alcohol content cocktails and serve the classics all night long. Additionally, a larger kitchen gives Nasewicz the freedom to expand on the “variety and hyperlocality” of the food program while still touting fan favorites like their Cuban sandwich and avocado toast.

“We want to highlight and represent Bradenton. All of our ingredients are locally sourced—as much as they can be,” he says. “Same with our creators and musicians that will be occupying the event space. We’re trying to keep it as local as possible while also diving into the Sarasota and St. Pete markets as well.” Although the size and location of Oscura has changed, the same local brand that the cafe established over two years ago remains. But what started as a coffee shop operating on a shoe-string budget, has now morphed into a full-swing live music venue and bar.

“Our goal is to offer a place for the local music scene to not only exist but to flourish,” says Greene. LBA

Left to right: Greene, Nasewicz and the team plan to utilize Oscura’s new, expanded space to offer live event offerings such as stand-up comedy, listening room performances, ticketed concerts, open mic nights and other community events.

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LIVING BRADENTON AREA

WRITTEN BY ABBY WEINGARTEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY WYATT KOSTYGAN

Burgeoning Neighborhoods Five neighborhoods in the Bradenton area are getting hotter by the minute. From the Bradenton River District, Riverview Boulevard and Northwest Bradenton to Downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria Island’s Key Royale, each corner of Manatee County has its own signature charm and in-demand market.

Bradenton River District North of Manatee Avenue, positioned between historic Fogartyville and Wares Creek, is a tranquil, oak-treelined section of Bradenton known as the Bradenton River District. This district encompasses the area between the 1900 Block and 26th Street West, with the Manatee River at the ends of the streets. Homes in this area range from early-1900s construction to brand-new structures, and residents soak in views of Wares Creek, Point Pleasant, Palmetto and Downtown Bradenton. Some of the original settlers of Bradenton even called this area home.

“This district is a very hot neighborhood, and most Bradenton people called it ‘Old Bradenton’ for many years. In 2001, I named it the Bradenton River District, because I’m a strong believer in naming something for more value,” says Brenda Boyd May, the owner of Boyd Realty LLC, which was established in 1952 in Manatee County. “Several local people have started moving

down to the exciting River District, and lots of houses have been remodeled or torn down and rebuilt. All of the streets have historical street lights and lead to the Manatee River. It is a lovely times-past neighborhood that is very hard to get into.”

The proximity to Downtown Bradenton, and the fact that the area is just minutes from the beaches, makes the Bradenton River District one of the most sought-after locations in Manatee County. It is within the Bradenton city limits yet not limited by deed restrictions, which lends the district to an eclectic array of homes. There are no cookie-cutter structures in this vicinity.

“Majestic oaks and established vegetation provide a bucolic setting found in this small area of town,” says Lynne Callahan, a realtor with Michael Saunders & Company. “A sense of neighborhood, front porches, dog walkers and even ducks call this area home.” LBA

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LIVING BRADENTON AREA Below: Bradenton Riverwalk overlooing the Manatee Rivber is a favorite spot for locals.

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Left to right: Need caption.

Riverview Boulevard While most West Bradenton neighborhoods are located north of Manatee Avenue, the Riverview Boulevard area extends all the way to De Soto Memorial Highway and De Soto Memorial Park. Riverview Boulevard has always been one of the most prestigious streets in Manatee County, with its winding, tree-lined stretches from Northwest Bradenton to Downtown Bradenton.

The majority of homes along Riverview Boulevard were built in the 1950s and 1960s, though many have been extensively renovated or torn down and rebuilt.

The north side of the Boulevard is lined with waterfront estates along the Manatee River—most with dazzling water views, located on deep-water parcels with direct Tampa Bay and Gulf of Mexico access via the Manatee River. The south side of the Boulevard has a diversity of homes on large lots and, in many instances, these homes have a peek at the Manatee River.

“Riverview Boulevard has more multi-million-dollar houses than any other location in Bradenton,” May says.

Kathy Valente, a realtor with Michael Saunders & Company, adds that Riverview Boulevard homes also have access to the Warner’s Bayou boat ramp (which is situated on a deep-water bayou and has a boat launch).

“You can go kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, or simply enjoy a day of fishing from the boat ramp,” Valente says. “The boater enthusiast will relish life on the Manatee River with its easy access to the Gulf waters, with no bridges.” The Riverview Boulevard area is also close to hospitals, shopping districts, the Bradenton Country Club, public and private schools (including Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School and IMG Academy), De Soto Memorial Park and Robinson Preserve. The Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport is less than a half-hour drive away.

The neighborhood is ideal for serious anglers and beach lovers because of its proximity to area waterways.

And the fact that there are no deed restrictions in the Riverview Boulevard area is another benefit to buyers.

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Northwest Bradenton When it comes to Northwest Bradenton—the area north of Manatee Avenue West—there are plenty of single-family homes with an Old Florida vibe, as well as small sections of condos and villages. Of the latter, one of the newest developments is Harbour Isles, which offers a mixture of vacation-style condo living and single-family, carriage-style homes with a clubhouse overlooking Anna Maria Sound.

New commercial construction is booming and family-centric amenities—like local farms, parks and beaches—are right around the corner from Northwest Bradenton homes. “Northwest Bradenton has that small-town feel of family-oriented demographics, but it also has a level of vacationing families at the same time,” says Gregory Zies, a realtor with Michael Saunders & Company.

Primarily, this area is a well-established neighborhood but there is still a sprinkling of newer construction, Zies says. One of the main perks of living in Northwest Bradenton is the nearness to Palma Sola Bay, Anna Maria Island, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach, as well as the Robinson Preserve, De Soto Memorial Park and two public boat ramps. Northwest Bradenton is also home to Palma Sola Botanical Park, as well as Geraldson’s Family Farm (an 11-acre farm that is open to the public for picking fresh fruits and vegetables). The area continues to expand around these local gems.

“It’s been several years since we’ve seen the amount of commercial activity in Northwest Bradenton that we are seeing right now. Target is currently in the process of renovating our old Kmart, located at Manatee Avenue West and 75th Street Northwest, which is also marketing for additional anchor stores,” Zies says. “We also have a number of restaurants going through permitting and construction, as well as other commercial projects breaking ground.”

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Downtown Bradenton Downtown Bradenton is undoubtedly in rebirth mode.

The area offers a mix of condominiums, apartments and single-family homes (many of which are historic bungalows). And there are plenty of small and large condo communities with Manatee River views.

“Downtown Bradenton will climb vertically in the future with hotels and condos. Point Pleasant is the home of Tropicana Founder Anthony Rossi, and it is a beautiful point on the Manatee River with turn-of-the-century houses and mid-century condos,” May says. “The architecture is a graceful reminder of the past. And the Bradenton River District can be seen across the Manatee River.”

Debbie Vogler, a realtor with Michael Saunders & Company, says that the residences in Downtown Bradenton (100-plus-year-old homes right near newer structures) exemplifies the diversity of it buyers.

“This combination of old and new is reflected in the demographics of the residents—from active retirees to young professionals,” Vogler says. Downtown Bradenton has everything from the Manatee Performing Arts Center to the Village of the Arts to LECOM Park for the Pittsburgh Pirates’ spring training and the Bradenton Marauders’ minor league baseball games. The downtown Riverwalk is rife with walking paths, a playground, a water play area, an amphitheater, day docks, a fishing pier, a sand volleyball court and a skateboarding park.

“Plenty of restaurants, bars and shops downtown make for a vibrant feel,” Vogler says. “The many activities, including the public market on Saturdays and the annual blues fest, draw people to Downtown Bradenton, and many buyers want to live there for the convenience and entertainment.”

Left to right: Along the Downtown Bradenton waterfront.

The historic Pelot’s Rexall Pharmacy. Bradenton City Hall building. The Bishop Museum of Art & Science exterior.

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LIVING BRADENTON AREA Key Royale on Anna Maria Island Downtown Bradenton is undoubtedly in rebirth mode.

The area offers a mix of condominiums, apartments and single-family homes (many of which are historic bungalows). And there are plenty of small and large condo communities with Manatee River views.

“Downtown Bradenton will climb vertically in the future with hotels and condos. Point Pleasant is the home of Tropicana Founder Anthony Rossi, and it is a beautiful point on the Manatee River with turn-of-the-century houses and mid-century condos,” May says. “The architecture is a graceful reminder of the past. And the Bradenton River District can be seen across the Manatee River.”

Debbie Vogler, a realtor with Michael Saunders & Company, says that the residences in Downtown Bradenton (100-plus-year-old homes right near newer structures) exemplifies the diversity of it buyers.

“This combination of old and new is reflected in the demographics of the residents—from active retirees to young professionals,” Vogler says. Downtown Bradenton has everything from the Manatee Performing Arts Center to the Village of the Arts to LECOM Park for the Pittsburgh Pirates’ spring training and the Bradenton Marauders’ minor league baseball games. The downtown Riverwalk is rife with walking paths, a playground, a water play area, an amphitheater, day docks, a fishing pier, a sand volleyball court and a skateboarding park.

“Plenty of restaurants, bars and shops downtown make for a vibrant feel,” Vogler says. “The many activities, including the public market on Saturdays and the annual blues fest, draw people to Downtown Bradenton, and many buyers want to live there for the convenience and entertainment.”

Above left: As Anna Maria Island’s only private membership golf community, Key Royale on Holmes Beach boasts an enviable waterfront setting and lovely deep-water canal. Serenity abounds in this highly sought-after enclave of Sarasota, Florida real estate. A true paradise along the Gulf Coast, it is an ideal locale for boaters, anglers, yachtsmen and golfers. The community’s clubhouse is a welcoming gathering space for dining, cocktails, and good company and the Key Royale Club restaurant features fresh cuisine and homemade desserts. Homes for sale in Key Royale range in style from Old Florida to Mediterranean architecture and include single-family residences and estates with a few homesites still available for purchase. Perfectly positioned near Sarasota, the barrier island and seven-mile strip named Anna Maria Island is a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its laidback lifestyle and Old Florida charm invite all to savor sun-filled days. Outdoor recreation is plentiful, and residents and tourists alike enjoy cycling, fishing, swimming and boating along the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico. A unique destination, Bridge Street features souvenir cottages, galleries, boutiques and lively bars and restaurants. The nearby Bridge Street Pier highlights the breathtaking views of Sarasota Bay. Known for its fresh seafood, the island showcases a variety of top dining options and delectable culinary creations. The area known as Holmes Beach is the largest of three communities within Anna Maria Island and it offers three miles of stunning white sand beaches. Moments from a vibrant cultural mecca, homes for sale in Key Royale are just a short distance from a lively arts scene, fine shopping and world-class entertainment in Sarasota. From live music and exciting nightlife to private golfing and wildlife preserves, there is something for all to enjoy when selecting a home among Key Royale luxury real estate. Courtesy of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty.

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