FROM THE LIGHT OF MORNING THROUGH THE DARK OF NIGHT, during our hardest times and happiest days, our pets provide us with unconditional love and friendship. This year’s SRQ Pets We Love competition included more applicants than ever before and supplied us with the most loveable stories and adorable photos. Check out the winners of every pet lover’s favorite contest. PRODUCED BY SRQ MAGAZINE | LAUREN SUTTER, PHOTOGRAPHY BY WES ROBERTS AND JENNIFER VILLAGOMEZ
hidden gems 80
IT’S NO SECRET THAT SARASOTA IS A PHILANTHROPIC COMMUNITY with many organizations and individuals involved in charitable giving. Our philanthropy partners, however, often offer a wealth of services that extend far beyond traditional grantmaking and many of these hidden gems remain under the radar for most people. The nonprofit groups covered in this feature are working to create more meaningful, long-lasting change in our region. WRITTEN BY BARBIE HEIT
This Page: Katie McCurry, McCurry, Vice President of Advancement, Harvest House.
Photo by Wes Roberts. Cover: Sandy and David Gurley fly with their 4-year-old Mini Australian Labradoodle Winston. Photo by Jennifer Villagomez.
may/june 2025
47 GUIDE TO HIGHER EDUCATION
LAKE ERIE COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE NEW COLLEGE OF FLORIDA
RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN
STATE COLLEGE OF FLORIDA
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA, SARASOTAMANATEE
97 GIVING COAST
REGIONAL DONOR’S GUIDE TO GIVING
119 ROCKETKIDS: GUIDE TO PRIVATE AND CHARTER SCHOOLS IN SARASOTA AND MANATEE
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Big Cat Habitat’s Clayton Rosaire went above and beyond to ensure that the birth of the rescue’s first-ever jaguar cubs went smoothly. Edwin Culver’s modern classical guitar compositions pay homage to his heavy metal roots. Community Day School Students Partner with Aviva Senior Living residents to create an intergenerational garden. Director Kevin Smith’s KillRoy Was Here provided real-world, hands-on experience to student filmmakers in Sarasota.
culture city 27
Tania Vergara Perez revives a dream with Endedans Contemporary Ballet. Exploring the intersection of culture and nature with
Currents of Resistance, Sandy Rodriguez’s groundbreaking exhibition at The Ringling. The Ringling Museum’s Radical Clay exhibition highlights the brilliant work of contemporary Japanese ceramic artists.
cargo 97
Treat your furry friends with pet toys to keep them occupied all day.
forage 70
Lefty’s Oyster and Seafood Bar is the Rosemary District’s newest seafood destination. Lucky 8 Luncheonette brings the flavors of New Orleans corner cafés to the Hillview District. Ryan Ward melds classic American cuisine with Gulf Coast flavors in the recently redesigned menu at EVOQ.
giving coast 112
From military roots to pro bono advocacy, attorney Neil Lyons uses his legal skills to give back to the community. Suncoast Remake Learning Days celebrates hands-on-learning.
wellness 114
Explore an integrative approach to wellness with local practitioners.
This page: Chef Ryan redesigns the EVOQ Sarasota menu at The Westin Sarasota, photography by Wes Roberts. 2023 Hermitage Greenfield Prize Winner Sandy Rodriguez with Hermitage and Ringling supporters, courtesy of The Hermitage. Artist Fujikasa Satoko’s Seraphim sculpture at the Ringling Museum’s Radical Clay exhibit, courtesy of RIngling Museum.
TOP DOCTORS
MAY/JUNE 2025
CEO / PRESIDENT / EDITOR IN CHIEF
LISL LIANG
EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER
WES ROBERTS
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND ENGAGEMENT
Ashley Grant
VICE PRESIDENT, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
SRQ CREATIVE STUDIOS
Gabriele Harris
ACCOUNTS + CLIENT SERVICE AND DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
Robinson Valverde
SENIOR SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE
Suzanne Munroe
SALES AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE
Nichole Knutson
Rob Wardlaw
VP OF PHOTOGRAPHY + VIDEO
Wyatt Kostygan
MANAGING EDITOR
Barbie Heit
SENIOR EDITOR
Dylan Campbell
CLIENT MARKETING+ DIGITAL PROGRAMS MANAGER
Gabriella Alfonso
SOCIAL MEDIA, MARKETING + EVENTS MANAGER
Lauren Sutter
MARKETING + CONTENT ASSOCIATE
Solymar Estrella
CONTRIBUTING SENIOR DESIGNER
Virginia Jankovsky
CREATIVE ASSOCIATE
Jennifer Villagomez
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS + ARTISTS
Mason Aaseland, Zach Dauth, Andrew Fabian, Phil Lederer, Chris Leverett, Daniel Wagner, Kate Wight
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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: Monday Business Edition, Tuesday Foodie Edition, Wednesday Philanthropy Edition, Thursday Family, Education and Sports Edition, 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
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.
PUBLISHERS OF SRQ MAGAZINE, WELLEN PARK LIVING, LIVING LAKEWOOD, SRQ TOP DOCTORS
MEDICAL RESOURCE GUIDE, SRQ ELITE TOP ATTORNEYS PROGRAM, SRQ HOME & DESIGN, SRQARTS: ANNUAL GUIDE TO FLORIDA’S CULTURAL COAST AND SHE ROARS MAGAZINE.
AFTER 50 WONDERFUL YEARS, THE HYATT REGENCY SARASOTA IS CLOSING ITS DOORS
After an incredible 50 years of service, the Hyatt Regency Sarasota is bidding farewell. Since its opening in 1975, it has been a beloved fixture on the intercoastal waterway, offering an unforgettable stay with its 294 rooms, lagoon-style pool and 30-slip marina. The hotel’s prime location, just minutes from the Gulf beaches and a short stroll to downtown Sarasota exemplifies coastal elegance. For five decades, it has been more than just a hotel; it has been the gathering place for business, family events, celebrations and relaxing vacations. As the doors close on this iconic hotel, the Hyatt Regency leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable memories, a symbol of Sarasota’s charm through the years.
THE HYATT REGENCY SARASOTA’S DREAM TEAM
WES SANTOS HAS SERVED AS GENERAL MANAGER OF THE HYATT REGENCY SARASOTA FOR FOUR YEARS, joining just as COVID-19 was waning. He’s been with–Aimbridge Hospitality, the third-party hotel management company overseeing the operations at Hyatt Sarasota–for over nine years. Debbie DeVito serves as Director of Sales and Marketing, and she’s been with the organization for eight years. Assistant Finance Director Annette Hopewell, also part of the administrative team, has been with the hotel for over 41 years. Wes is in awe of the relationships that have been built amongst the long-term employees, “Many of these folks have worked through eight di erent GMs but they have always stayed together through it all. It’s a family-friendly environment where people have grown up together,” he says. “Hospitality can be a transient business, but for these employees, leaving was never an option.” He credits Hyatt’s loyalty to both customers and employees for their longevity.
“While we’ve modernized, the employees still cherish the sense of home they feel when walking into this building. When we announced the hotel closing, at least
a dozen said, ‘We’re sticking it out until the end’, even though some have had other options.” Debbie adds, “Maybe it’s because we’re in paradise here!”
“It’s rare for someone to start and retire with the same company,” she says. “I’m leaving with so many cherished friendships.” Her greatest memories revolve around hosting large events. “It’s incredible to see what it takes to pull o a big event and bring so many people together–everyone has each other’s backs. As Director of Sales, my job is to generate business, but you can’t succeed without taking care of your people. And that’s what we do here. The pride the employees take in their work is amazing.”
Annette believes that her success has come from having a positive attitude daily, learning from mistakes, working hard and always being prepared for the day. “Always dress and act for the position you want, not the position you have now,” she advises. To support employees through the closing, the management team is hosting a reverse job fair this spring, partnering with local businesses to o er booths where sta can interview for open roles with participating organizations.
A REGIONAL ICON
Erin Duggan, president and CEO of Visit Sarasota County for the past two years, has worked with the organization for 20 years and grew up in the area, witnessing its transformation. Reflecting on Sarasota before the Hyatt arrived, she says, “We had mom-and-pop accommodations, but no meeting hotels. The Hyatt, built 50 years ago, was monumental. It exposed us to meeting attendees, turning business travelers into leisure visitors, and eventually attracting the families who moved here and couples who retired here.” Visit Sarasota County drives about 30% of the area’s visitation but Duggan highlights the Hyatt’s role, noting how they’ve planted the seeds in helping local businesses thrive.
“When I was a kid, downtown Sarasota was slower in the summer, and restaurants closed for the season. That’s all changed over the years thanks in large part to all of the accommodations throughout the county.”
—Erin
Duggan
The temporary loss of 200+ Hyatt rooms will impact the area economically. Duggan explains that the Tourist Development Tax (TDT) paid by shortterm rental guests funds key Sarasota projects. Last year, the county collected over $48 million in TDT, up from $15 million about a decade ago. This tax supports beach maintenance, Nathan Benderson Park, spring training and arts funding—all vital for Sarasota’s identity as Florida’s Cultural Coast. “We’ll miss them while they’re gone, but the long-term benefits of their rebuild in a few years will be worth it.”
“Meeting attendees love the downtown hotels where they can walk everywhere and don’t need to rent a car,” she adds. “This is the kind of tourism we want—tourists who aren’t clogging our roads, but supporting our businesses, paying the TDT and sales tax and contributing to the local economy.” She also notes that while it’s easy to take the busy season for granted, it’s great to see our hotels busy from June through October. “When I was a kid, downtown Sarasota was slower in the summer, and restaurants closed for the season. That’s all changed over the years thanks in large part to all of the accommodations throughout the county, including the new hotels and the additions of AirBNB and VRBOs.”
Duggan praises the Hyatt’s leadership for its commitment to employees. “In a world focused on the bottom line, sometimes humanity can be forgotten. How the management is handling the closure and taking care of employees is truly admirable.”
Above: General Manager Wes Santos and Director of Sales and Marketing Debbie Devito. Below: Assistant Finance Director Anne e Hopewell. The Hya Regency Sarasota over the years.
THE HEARTBEAT OF HOSPITALITY
THE BEHIND-THE-SCENES STAFF MEMBERS WHO MAKE IT ALL HAPPEN
“When this hotel closes, part of my heart will go with it.”
—Nadir Magusson
THE SERVERS AND FRONT-OF-HOUSE STAFF AT THE HYATT SARASOTA ENSURE EVERY GUEST RECEIVES EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE. The servers and front-of-house sta at the Hyatt Sarasota ensure every guest receives exceptional service. Huey Wilson has been with the organization since 1992 when he joined the New Orleans Hyatt as a bartender. Here in Sarasota since 2001, Huey is a bell attendant, shuttle bus driver and occasionally, a valet. His greatest memories are the charity boat races and checking in famous guests including the Beach Boys, BB King and Judy Collins. On any given day, Huey says you can find him ‘chillin’ like a villain’ around the hotel. Yvette Pritchard’s remarkable 35-year journey with Hyatt began in Chicago, where she started as a busser and assisted with phone duties. In 1988, she moved here to be closer to her family and has since worn many hats, taking on roles in room service, floor operations and even working at the coffee bar. Yvette will especially miss the close-knit sta and the loyal guests who request her presence every year. Throughout her career, she has appreciated the unwavering support of the management team, especially during challenging times, such as the recent hurricanes and the loss of her mother. Known for her signature tradition of dancing on the tables to celebrate the end of an event at the hotel, Anna Braden has been an integral part of Hyatt Sarasota for over 38 years. Currently a server, she has also worked with the banquets and room service teams. Reflecting on her long tenure, Anna is moved to tears when thinking about how much she will miss her coworkers and the guests who have become like family over the years. Stephanie Dejonge, now a breakfast server, became part of the Hyatt Sarasota family on April 13, 1989. Over the years, she’s had the chance to meet several famous personalities, including Kevin Bacon and the Bacon Brothers while working at the boathouse, as well as political figures, comedian Jerry Seinfeld and her childhood idol, Liza Minnelli. “It’s sad for all of us who’ve been here for so long,” Stephanie says. “Like any family, we love to hate each other! I’ll miss every one of my coworkers.”
The banquet sta members at the Hyatt are dedicated to creating flawless events. Rose De Freitas began her journey at the hotel over 36 years ago as a housekeeper before transitioning into the banquet department as a server. She particularly enjoys assisting with co ee breaks during meetings and conventions and will greatly miss her coworkers. Nadir Magusson, who has been with Hyatt Sarasota for an impressive 43.6 years, also started in housekeeping before becoming a banquet server. Over the years, she’s celebrated her children’s weddings and her 50th wedding anniversary at the hotel. “This is a beautiful place with beautiful people to work with, and it breaks my heart to see it closing,” she shares. Banquet Captain Pamela Poe holds the record for the longest tenure, with 47.4 years at the hotel. When she first started, she recalls being put to work at the bar with no experience. It felt chaotic and overwhelming, and she wasn’t sure she’d return. But somehow, she’s been there ever since. Over the years, Pam has become an expert with flower arrangements and even won a competition. Her first and only job in the United States, Ella Rabinovich is a banquet server who came to the hotel in 1992 from Belarus. She’s also worked on many jobs in the kitchen. “This hotel was my life and I will miss it dearly,” she says.
THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES, HYATT REGENCY SARASOTA!
MIXING DRINKS AND MASTERING DISHES
Le : Banquet staff members Ella Rabinovich, Rose De Freitas, Nadir Magusson and Pamela Poe. Below le : Bartenders Carmel Koos and Margaret Gannon. Below: Wilfredo Colon, Antionio Lopez and Angela “Angie” Brown. Below right: Anna Braden, Stephanie Dejonge, Yve e Pritchard and Huey Wilson.
THE KITCHEN AND BAR TEAMS MAKING MAGIC HAPPEN. Antionio Lopez has been a banquet cook for the Hyatt for 32 years. Wilfredo Colon arrived at the hotel over 30 years ago as a line cook from Rochester, NY. Aside from all the friends he’s made, he will always remember the time he tried to light the oven in the boat house, almost lighting his mustache on fire. Angela “Angie” Brown, line and lead banquet cook started in the summer of 1991. She worked with laundry for a year but couldn’t stand the static shock so she moved over the the kitchen where she’s been ever since. She has fond memories of the Sunday brunches at the hotel. Angie, Wilfredo and Antonio will miss their coworkers who are like family to them. Margaret Gannon has spent over 34 years bartending at the Hyatt Sarasota, and Carmel Koos has been tending bar at the hotel’s Hurricane Hut for more than 36 years. Both have enjoyed the ever-changing nature of their jobs and will miss their Hyatt family. Robert “Bobby” Denu, who’s been with the Hyatt family since 1984, has a 45-year career that began in Kentucky. He moved to Tampa and finally settled in Sarasota. After transitioning from the military to bartending, Bobby has always loved his work, recalling serving milkshakes to customers and their grandchildren. Those children are now grown, visiting with their children and grandchildren and Bobby is still serving them milkshakes at the lobby bar.
This spread: The signature black marks on a jaguar’s coat are called rosettes and serve as camouflage in areas with dense vegetation and patchy shadows.
srqist
THE JAGUAR’S DEN
Big Cat Habitat’s Clayton Rosaire went above and beyond to ensure that the birth of the rescue’s first-ever jaguar cubs went smoothly. Dylan Campbell
FOR 14 NIGHTS, CLAYTON ROSAIRE DID NOT SLEEP IN HIS OWN BED. Rosaire was not out on a business trip or camping with friends. He wasn’t at a five-star hotel or some tropical resort either. In fact, the place he was sleeping didn’t even have a bed. Rosaire, who runs Big Cat Habitat, the exotic animal rescue and conservation center with his mother Kay Rosaire, was snuggled in next to a nearly 300-pound beast with a bite force of 1,500 PSI–the strongest of any cat in the animal kingdom. For anybody else, waking up in a jaguar’s den would be the stuff of nightmares. But for Rosaire, who was helping the jaguar Kira give birth to her first litter, it was a dream come true. “She gave birth to the first baby, brought it over to me, put it in my lap and then laid next to me and birthed the second cub,” says Rosaire. “The first time they ever nursed they were in the palm of my hand. It was one of the greatest experiences of my life. We brought these incredible lives into the world and then have the privilege of taking care of them and being a part of their family forever.”
Kira gave birth to two cubs, a boy and a girl, the first ever born at Big Cat Habitat. The birth was a milestone for the conservation efforts of the exotic animal rescue, which was founded by Kay in 1987 and is home to over 300 animals that span across 62 different species. Big Cat Habitat worked with several other conservation centers to bring together Kira, their own jaguar, with the father, Bagheera, to create a new jaguar bloodline in the United States.
For Rosaire, however, the two cubs don’t just represent a new bloodline for the big cat that is native to the Americas. They are the two newest members of his evergrowing animal family. When Rosaire enters their pen, the cubs bound over to him, pouncing on his shoes and rubbing against his legs. Their signature speckled coats turn from gold to white as they wriggle onto their backs and expose their bellies for Rosaire to rub. It’s a level of comfort that only comes from having an incredible
amount of trust with the animals. Jaguars, which Rosaire said can be notoriously temperamental, are one of the few animals that have learned to hunt humans in the wild. When Rosaire asked other conservation groups how long they spent with the mother jaguar after birth, they told him that no one goes near the mother for a month prior and after birthing. After Rosaire spent 14 nights with Kira, she didn’t want him to leave.
“There are not too many animals that know that we’re weak prey,” says Rosaire. “It’s amazing to have this bond with them and to be able to work with them the way that we do when they know that we’re the weaker species. They don’t have to do that. To show the relationship that we have with them, to lay there and take naps with them is a really powerful thing because it proves that it works. If you love them and care for them and treat them right, then it actually works–they love us too.” SRQ
Left: Although they look nearly identical, the two jaguar cubs have distinct personalities. The girl, Rosaire says, is brash and extroverted while the boy is quieter and tends to keep to himself. To learn more about these jaguar cubs and the conservation work of the Rosaires, visit bigcathabitat.org.
A MODERN CLASSIC
Edwin Culver’s modern classical guitar compositions pay homage to his heavy metal roots. Kate Wight
“IT ALL STARTED IN HIGH SCHOOL,” EDWIN CULVER SAYS OF HIS PASSION FOR MUSIC. “I really wanted to be in a rock band or a heavy metal band and my parents finally gave in and got me a drum set one Christmas. That lasted a whole three days before they couldn’t stand the noise anymore.” Culver was instead gifted an acoustic guitar by his aunt. Still in metal mode, Culver taught himself to play over the next several years, skipping over basic chords and instead teaching himself how to play heavy metal riffs.
“I had a progressive technical death metal band (a musical subgenre of death metal with a focus on complex songwriting and instrumental skill) in college and we had a lot of fun there until our drummer lost his scholarship and didn’t return the next year,” Culver says ruefully. “We couldn’t find another drummer on campus who could keep up with us.”
By that point, Culver’s musical horizons had begun to expand. The same aunt that had gifted him the acoustic guitar years earlier heard on the radio about a classical guitarist who was coming to town and, on a whim, asked Culver if he wanted to go.
“I had no idea what classical guitar was. We went and the stuff that this guy ended up doing on the guitar with just his fingers alone blew me away,” Culver recalls. “So many of the techniques of heavy metal that had attracted me to the complexity of that style of music, he just blew all of that out of the water. And I knew that one day I wanted to be able to play that kind of stuff.”
Culver went on to major in music in college which had its challenges—as he puts it, “I could not read a single note of music.” But he persevered, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance from Hillsdale College and following that up with an intense music study under Tom Patterson at the University of Arizona. After graduating he moved to Sarasota where he taught music history, theory and composition to K-12 students while
also offering classical guitar lessons. At the moment, Culver is on hiatus from teaching while he develops his own curriculum and works on his music full-time. In March, Culver held a concert at SPAACES art gallery which marked the first time he had staged a performance comprised entirely of his own compositions. “It was kind of a weird feeling to intentionally put the limelight on my work,” he says. “I’m used to always incorporating lots of different composers and styles of music from several different time periods. This was definitely the most experimental, thorny, heavy metal of my concerts so far.”
Culver’s music is modern and conceptual, often incorporating electronic soundscapes alongside guitar. But while his compositions deal with heady topics like war, depression and finding hope amongst human suffering, they are also deeply personal. Looking ahead, Culver hopes to book a tour of the program he debuted at SPAACES starting in October. To stay in the loop on future tour dates, you can join his mailing list on his website. Culver also offers a Backstage Club, a paid online service that gives subscribers behindthe-scenes access to Culver’s music and process. It’s similar to a patronage like in days of old but with a modern twist, which seems fitting for this cuttingedge classical guitarist. SRQ
Left: Classical guitarist Edwin Culver before his recent performance at SPAACES in Sarasota. Edwin Culver, edwinculver.com.
PLANTING THE SEEDS OF TOMORROW
Community Day School Students Partner with Aviva Senior Living Residents to Create an Intergenerational Garden. Barbie Heit
THE 6TH-GRADE STUDENTS OF HERSHORIN SCHIFF COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL AND THE RESIDENTS OF AVIVA SENIOR LIVING HAVE JOINED
FORCES to create an intergenerational garden that transcends age barriers and showcases the shared values of both groups. The students worked side-by-side with Aviva residents to design, plant and cultivate the garden that is now housed on the second floor of Aviva’s assisted living building. “When you put two different generations together, the results are often incredible,” says Maria Leonardo, Aviva’s director of life enrichment and volunteer programs. “I've seen such blooming out of both. It feels like we're doing a good deed–a mitzvah as we say in Hebrew—and yes, we are doing a mitzvah because we are doing something for someone else; however, that is not what intergenerational programming is about. It’s a bigger picture that's more about how people learn to work together to understand and respect one another–it’s true collaboration.” Community Day School 6th grade teachers, Mrs. Briggs and Mrs. Worth, have worked closely with Leonardo at Aviva. From planning and design to planting and reflection, the teachers have guided the students through every step of the process. Along with Leonardo, they ordered planters and bought the plants. The students and residents then put the plants in the pots and worked on feeding the soil and cultivating the plants. Each student/senior team then put their names on the pots they worked on, creating a lasting memory for all to see. “This initiative has truly been a labor of love,” says Mrs. Briggs. “Opportunities like this give the students knowledge about things like empathy and charity—things that we can’t teach them in a classroom. It’s been incredible to see them work alongside the Aviva residents and form meaningful relationships.” Nola, one of the students who participated in the project, enjoyed the experience so much that she is considering working with the seniors for her upcoming mitzvah project. “One of the women I met at Aviva was turning 102!” she said. “I would have never guessed she was that age—she was a really cool lady.”
“With the way things are in the world presently and the changes in education, children are often not exposed to very many community service projects,” says Leonardo. “Community Day School is very proactive. They understand this need and we have a wonderful relationship with them. We have some terrific pictures of the kids and seniors with their hands in the dirt. When you look at the photos, you can see the difference in their ages, but you can also see the common goal. They were all working together to beautify our second floor.” More than just a pretty addition to the second floor of Aviva, the growing garden is like a powerful metaphor for nurturing the things that shape our future. The garden, like the children, requires care, attention and patience. “The children are the promise of tomorrow,” adds Leonardo. “For our residents, it's hope that maybe the young people of today will be thinking about tomorrow—that they’ll be actively engaged in preserving the environment and thinking about the world they will inherit.” SRQ
Below, left to right: The hands-on gardening collaboration between the residents of Aviva and the students of Hershorin Schiff Community Day School fostered creativity, teamwork and lasting generational bonds.
REAL CAREERS IN IMAGINARY WORLDS
Director Kevin Smith’s KillRoy Was Here provided real-world, hands-on experience to student filmmakers in Sarasota. Dylan Campbell
MAKE PRETEND. IT’S A PHRASE THAT KEVIN SMITH USES REPEATEDLY WHEN SPEAKING ABOUT FILMMAKING.
At first, the two words seem like an oversimplification to the intricate, multi-faceted process of making a film. So much, after all, goes even to shooting a short film, from the scouting of a location to the hiring of the actors to editing, sound mixing and more. The phrase, however, is less a statement than an admission from one of the preeminent voices of independent filmmaking—that at the heart of what he does, he is still just “making pretend”.
Since his directorial debut of Clerks in 1994, Smith has become the poster child for DIY-style filmmaking. Shot on a shoestring budget at the New Jersey convenience store where Smith worked, Clerks became living proof that Hollywood could be cracked, that talent, drive and want-to could in fact be enough for a story to have success. After Clerks, Smith forged a career straddling the two worlds of Hollywood and independent cinema— he’s worked with A-list stars like Ben Affleck and Matt Damon and directed major studio films while continuing to create independent projects and author comic books.
In 2025, Smith’s creative spirit touched down in Sarasota for the first ever public screening of KillRoy Was Here at Burns Court Cinema. A comedy horror anthology film shot in and around Sarasota in 2017 and 2018, KillRoy Was Here marries two of Smith’s passions: an intense drive to create and the ability to empower future generations of filmmakers. The film, which was made with the full collaboration of Ringling College of Art and Design students, traces its roots to the graffiti phenomenon “Kilroy was here”, a meme depicting a looming character with a large nose that became
popular during World War II. In KillRoy Was Here, four intertwining stories illustrate the legend of Killroy, a local boogeyman figure, and the dire consequences of saying his name three times.
“Sarasota just gave us so many different looks,” says Smith, who directed and co-wrote the film. “We set the project in Florida, so we were able to take advantage of all of the different looks of the area, whether it be Spanish moss hanging off a tree or different water beds, because Killroy is something of a swamp creature.”
The film, which is just over an hour long, is stitched together from four different short films with the intention of providing real-world experience to student filmmakers. The production, however, wasn’t just experiential—Smith valued and used the input of the student crewmembers, which helped shape the stories that appear on screen. In one of the stories of KillRoy, the monster feeds a poisonous flower into a character’s mouth. Smith, at a loss for how to get a fake, chewable flower into the actor’s mouth without ruining their makeup, looked to the students for advice. “I kept telling them, ‘don’t be afraid to make a
This spread, left to right: Director Kevin Smith brought his signature style and infectious enthusiasm to Burns Court Cinema for the premiere of KillRoy Was Here, which was filmed in Sarasota.
suggestion,’”says Smith. “When we needed to create that flower, one of the students made it edible by sculpting it out of marzipan. That’s above and beyond the call of duty. Watching those kids reach for and achieve new artistic heights while we were making this dopey little horror movie was pretty inspiring.”
There was an energy and attitude from the student filmmakers that Smith found infectious. They too had been bitten by the magic of the silver screen and had experienced the same calling to create at any cost that Smith had at a young age. It was an eagerness that Smith had seen all too often diminish within the grind of Hollywood. “They’re hungry for it. It being something that I’ve done so many times, so being around that enthusiasm pumps you up and reminds you of why you started this journey in the first place,” says Smith. “If you’re going to make pretend, which is essentially what we do, you want people that are game for that. It’s not a job for any of these kids. It’s a passion. It makes for a far more habitable set and better work is going
to come from it.”Protecting that creative spark can be difficult, Smith admits, especially in the entertainment industry. “It’s tough when you’re trying to commodify your passion. It’s like presuming upon the most precious relationship in your life,” says Smith. “If it’s my words or my feelings or my perspective, then I’ve got to find a way to make a living off of it and still have it mean something to me and not cheapen it to the point where it’s just the way that I get paid.”
Nurturing that spark, however, doesn’t have to be as difficult. Just as the legend of Killroy has lived on throughout time, so too will the project continue to provide real-world experience to burgeoning filmmakers in the Sarasota-area. The next chapter of KillRoy Was Here will be created through the Studio Lab KillRoy Bootcamp, an intensive filmmaking workshop that will run twice a year in Sarasota, where students will have the opportunity to be involved in every step of the creative process, from writing the scripts to shooting and working in post production. SRQ
CREATIVE EMPOWERMENT PROJECT
The driving force behind the Studio Lab KillRoy Bootcamp, is the Creative Empowement Project, an initiative from Caring for Children Charities and development and production company Semkhor Productions that seeks to engender students around Florida’s Cultural Coast with the real-world skills and experience to forge careers in digital media. The initiative has brought Hollywood actors such as Heather Graham, Dylan McDermott and Danielle Truitt to area schools to speak on their career paths and has offered free courses in digital media and storytelling. “We’re working with Suncoast Technical College, Booker High School and other public schools to create a digital cinema/studio lab accredited program starting in high school,” says Semkhor owner David Shapiro. “Right now, we’re teaching 70 students Adobe After Effects for free. It’s the same concept of a relationship between a non-profit and an industry player so that we can be sure that the curriculum will resonate with and keep up with what is going on in the industry.” By bringing commercial projects and educational opportunities to Sarasota, Shapiro hopes that the initiative can help build Sarasota as a destination for digital media in the coming years. By empowering young creatives, Sarasota can be a town that not only trains industry talent, but a place where they stay and practice their craft.
Special Thanks to Pets We Love Presenting Sponsors
A ROUNDUP OF PAW-SITIVELY PAW-SOME ANIMAL FRIENDS
From the light of morning through the dark of night, during our hardest times and happiest days, our pets provide us with unconditional love and friendship. This year’s SRQ Pets We Love competition included more applicants than ever before and supplied us with the most loveable stories and adorable photos. Check out the winners of every pet lover’s favorite contest.
Below: Pilots Sandy and David Gurley with their Australian Labradoodle Winston.
ELLIE
THE 1.5-YEAR-OLD AMBER RED CHIHUAHUA
“Some love stories begin with a spark—ours started with a wag. The day Ellie came into our lives, her vibrant energy and big personality instantly stole our hearts. From zoomies to snuggles, she fills our days with laughter and love. Life with Ellie is brighter, livelier and fullof joy.” — Owner Terra Tominelli
THE PERFECT DAY (FROM ELLIE’S PERSPECTIVE) Wake up my sister with wet-nosed kisses—I need to rise and shine! Quick zoomies, breakfast devoured, then it’s time for the best part . . . poolside lounging! I soak up the sun, my sister calls it “vitamin D,” but I call it “being fabulous.” Belly rubs, cool sips of water, and maybe a sneaky splash in the pool (oops!). Snuggles, snacks, sunset vibes— pure perfection. Let’s do it again tomorrow! QUIRKY STORY No sock is safe. Whether taken from the laundry or stolen off my foot, it’s gone. If I catch her in the act she stares, then rockets into zoomie mode, bouncing off furniture like a caffeinated kangaroo. Where is the vanished sock? Probably in her secret stash —AKA the Bermuda Triangle of missing footwear. One day, I’ll find it. Until then, I live in fear . . . and mismatched socks.
DAVE
THE 5-YEAR-OLD PITBULL MIX
WINSTON
THE 4-YEAR-OLD MINI AUSTRALIAN LABRADOODLE
“Winston was adopted here in Sarasota. His first family fell through and we scooped him right up for adoption. He loves to fly with us, run on the beach and chase after tennis balls.”
— Owners Sandy and David Gurley featured on the previous page.
“In the crowded Tampa Bay SPCA shelter, a quiet, unassuming pup named Panda waited. His ribs pressed against his thin skin, his back raw from fleas and ticks. Life had been tough, but deep down, he knew he was meant for more. Then, in May 2021, everything changed. A human walked in—not just any human, but his human. The connection was instant. The shelter staff introduced him as Panda, but the name didn’t seem to fit. Then his human said, “Dave.” It was as if a switch flipped—he knew that was his name. No longer Panda, a forgotten shelter dog. He was Dave—strong, resilient, and ready for a new life. Recovery wasn’t easy. He ate well, filling out his frame. His wounds healed, his coat grew sleek, and he left his painful past behind. But he didn’t just survive—he thrived. Today, Dave lives like a king. His wardrobe rivals high-fashion icons’, his meals are crafted to perfection, and his home is spotless, thanks to his dedicated staff. From a struggling shelter pup to a life of luxury, Dave is proof that fate favors the bold. And so, he lounges, he dines, he rules—because Dave was never meant to be ordinary. He was always destined to be legendary.”
— Owner Isaiah Smith
FUN FACT He’s never disclosed his reasoning, but Dave has a deep hatred for cows. IF HE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HIM, IT WOULD BE Dave & Order: Special Treats Unit
A QUIRKY STORY Winston treats his lovey like a gentlemen. He brings her in the room to watch TV or where ever we are entertaining. He doesn’t want to leave her out. When anyone comes in our house, he walks them to the snack cabinet and insists they provide him with a treat. He has everyone trained, even service workers. IF HE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HIM, IT WOULD BE Winston’s Adventures: Flying, Boating, Hiking
SALLY (SAL, SALVADOR DOGGY, SALAMANDER HUFFINGTON, SALLY O’MALLEY)
THE 3.5 -YEAR-OLD TERRIER-COLLIE MIX
“My stepson and I knew it was time—we had gone seven months without our beloved Daisy, and the house felt far too quiet. We had a plan: take my husband out for a big brunch, then ease into our carefully prepared “we really need a dog” speech. Spoiler alert: He said no. Of course. But what he didn’t know was that we already had an approved adoption application waiting for us at Nate’s Animal Rescue. Unexpectedly, instead of heading home after brunch, my husband turned the car in the opposite direction. We held our breath as Nate’s sign appeared ahead. Within moments of getting out of the car, my husband was holding a little black-and-white ball of fluff with a tail wagging like crazy. Was he really choosing a dog? This was a twist we never saw coming. Did he pick her, or did she pick him? We’ll never truly know. But within ten minutes, Sally was officially ours. And guess who became her absolute favorite person? Yep, my husband—the man who initially said no. Now, they’re inseparable. While my stepson and I still pretend we “won” by getting Sally, it’s clear: she’s his dog, and he’s her person. The only one who comes close to his spot in her heart is my stepson. I’m comfortably in third place, but no, I’m not bitter. Really. And that’s how we got Sally—the dog we weren’t supposed to get. The dog my husband wasn’t supposed to choose. The dog who became his soul dog.” —Owner Sarah Firstenberger IF SHE HAD A TV SHOW/PODCAST IT WOULD BE CALLED Agent of Chaos. Slogan: “More trips to the vet than you can count—because why not?”
TIKI
THE 12-YEAR-OLD YORKSHIRE TERRIER
“In May 2022, I lost my dog Pascal to canine cancer. It was odd coming home to an empty house after his passing. I volunteer at Satchel’s Last Resort and one day, the executive director called me and mentioned that they just took in a Yorkie she thought I’d want to meet. We made the appointment and it was love at first sight. She hopped in my arms and began giving me kisses. Tiki had also experienced a loss. Her owner had suddenly and unexpectedly passed away. Maybe the two of us could help each other heal. I was a little hesitant to adopt a new dog two weeks after the loss of Pascal, and Tiki needed a full senior exam at the vet, so we entered into a foster-to-adopt situation. Within weeks, it was clear Tiki found her forever home. We’ve been through a lot these past couple of years including “old dog” vestibular disease, cardiac issues, travel and more! It really was a perfect fit.” —Owner Muffy Lavens A QUIRKY STORY When Tiki was first diagnosed with cardiogenic pulmonary edema, she required heart medication three times per day: 6am, 2pm and 10pm. Her recovery has been smooth and the cardiologist reduced her doses to twice per day: 6am and 6pm. The medication was given to her in tiny pieces of turkey sausage. She is unaware that the sausage piece is for her pills, so once the medication was reduced, 10pm “treats” were no longer needed . . . or so we thought. Tiki refuses to go to bed without her “bedtime snack.” As soon as she gets the little piece of sausage, she snuggles right into bed and goes to sleep.
LANCE
THE 12-YEAR-OLD GREAT PYRENEES MIX
“Lance was a stray, picked up by animal control in Lake Charles, LA, and brought to the Humane Society of Sarasota County. I first saw him while volunteering at the shelter. As he was being carried out of the building, I asked why—and learned he was too terrified to leave his pen, even to go outside.” —Owner Nan Miller
HEROIC STORY A few years ago at Bayfront Park in Sarasota a man approached me with his dog. He recognized Lance and told me my dog had changed his life. During a pet therapy session at the VA outpatient clinic in Bradenton, Lance had laid down on the man’s feet. A veteran with PTSD, he said that one simple moment of connection made him realize he needed a dog of his own. He got one and his life completely changed. Once a recluse who only left home for quick grocery runs, he now went everywhere with his dog. Then he told me something I’ll never forget: Lance saved me from suicide. He showed me I needed the love and companionship of a dog to find meaning again. Lance isn’t just a rescue, he’s truly a hero.
WILLOW, BUSTER, ZEKE AND HOLLY
THE 12 & 13-YEAR-OLD DACHSHUNDS “FOSTER FAILS”
“All four of these adorable senior dachshunds are “foster fails.” I have had over 100 dogs through my home since fostering for All American Dachshund Rescue. These are four of my previous fosters that I eventually adopted!” —Owner Meg Loomis HEROIC STORIES Willow is mostly deaf, blind in one eye, toothless and has a crippled front leg that she cannot put weight on. She was rescued from an owner who kept her in a crate for the last 6 years and rarely fed her. She only weighed 5 lbs coming into rescue. Today she is a perfect 10 lbs. Buster came to me as a foster at age 4 in November 2015. I noticed when he arrived that he had a wobble walk which meant he might have some back issues. Sure enough within two weeks, he went into surgery. After weeks of PT, I couldn’t let him go and adopted him! He is still doing great at age 13 and has no residual effects from his back issues … phew! Holly came to me in 2017 to be fostered. She literally came into rescue as a “bag of bones” with two deformed front legs after being tossed in the woods to survive or perish. Seeing the love my doxies and I had for Holly, I had to adopt her and make her a permanent part of the pack. Zeke was a “breeder” surrender (think puppy mill stud) who became another of my fosters in 2017. His teeth had never been cared for so we had to have EVERY tooth in his mouth pulled due to severe dental disease. Zeke had spent 10 years in a kennel setting with no socialization. We found him an adoptive home in GA, but after two months the family returned him since he still was not housebroken and continually barked a lot. When he came back to my home to be fostered, he was so excited to see Buster, Holly and me that I “folded” and adopted him, too!
RORY
THE 1-YEAR-OLD TRI-COLOR BEAGLE
“We instantly fell in love with Rory when we saw her listed as an adoptable puppy on Nate’s Animal Shelter’s social media page. We jumped in the car immediately, my daughter quickly filling out the adoption forms on the way, hoping it would speed things up. Upon arrival, our paperwork was approved quickly, but Rory was already being considered by another family. We waited anxiously, letting her lick our fingers through the fence. When the other family moved on to other dogs, we finally got to spend one-on-one time with her. Rory was playful, sweet and affectionate—exactly what we were looking for. We knew right then she was meant to be part of our family!” —Owner Niki Dalsing
PERFECT DAY Wake up, have breakfast, take a quick walk and then snuggle in a blanket for a quick nap. She would then spend her afternoon laying poolside in the sun watching the birds around the pond. Her perfect ending to the day would be with a visit to the dog park for some play and then dinner and movie to relax before calling it a night! QUIRKY STORY She loves to play in the sprinklers, run through the water and try to catch it in her mouth!
FRANKLIN
(FRANKS, FRANKIE, F-MAN, EFE)
THE 3-YEAR-OLD PORTUGUESE WATER DOG
“About four weeks before bringing our pup home, our breeder invited us to meet the litter. The plan was to find the right fit, but Franklin made the choice for us. While we played with his siblings, he came barreling toward us—full speed, all confidence, no brakes. We joke that he spotted my husband–the weak link–and knew he’d win him over instantly. Without hesitation, he crashed into his lap, all goofy enthusiasm. My husband laughed and said, “She’s the one you have to win over.” As if he understood, Franklin turned, charged into my lap, and sealed the deal. Unlike his littermates, identified by collar colors, Franklin had a different title—“Chunkster.” As the firstborn, he got a head start on the milk and quickly became the biggest of the bunch. His personality matched his size, bouncing between full-speed play and total cuddle overload. One moment, he was tumbling over his paws in excitement; the next, he was snuggling into our laps. And from that moment on, we knew—he wasn’t just our dog. He had chosen us.”—Owner Elizabeth McGowan
QUIRKY STORY Every morning, Franklin knocks his bowl over to signal he’s hungry— a trick he taught himself. When we started ignoring his antics, he leveled up, carrying his bowl to us instead. And when that didn’t work? He took it even further—learning to open doors. Now, if we don’t fill his bowl fast enough (yes, he’s trained us), he’ll take matters into his own paws, opening the pantry door and attempting to access his food himself. IF HE HAD A A PODCAST NAMED AFTER HIM, IT WOULD BE Sticks and Stuff: All the Fun Things I Put In My Mouth
LONDON BLU THE 7-YEAR-OLD BERNADOODLE
“We were incredibly lucky, what started as a simple visit to a pet store so my daughter could pet some dogs turned into fate. There, sitting patiently as if waiting just for us, was London Blu.” Owner Craig Holliday PERFECT DAY (FROM LONDON BLU’S PERSPECTIVE) First, wake up to some much-needed ear and nose rubs. Then, it’s out to the front yard to grab the paper, sniff the air and take care of business. Next up, breakfast, complete with some tasty blueberries and mango, followed by a nice mid-morning nap. By lunchtime, it’s time to be right in the middle of everything while Mom and Dad eat, soaking up all the ear scratches and attention. After that, another solid nap before the late afternoon fun of chasing tennis balls that mom shoots from the Nerf gun! Then, of course, another nap before dinner. One more rest and then it’s TV time, where I love barking at any dog, cat or horse on the screen. Westerns are my favorite—I especially love barking at the horses. Finally, it’s bedtime, recharging for another perfect day ahead.
LUNA
CHARLIE
THE 11-YEAR-OLD TIBETAN SPANIEL
“I adopted Charlie from a rescue two years ago when his previous owner had a sudden heart attack. Charlie clearly loved his past owner and we must be similar because he settled right into my life. He also loves his new job— Charlie is our Head of PR at Discover Sarasota Tours. As a loyal and enthusiastic team member, Charlie’s duties include providing puppy friendship to all of our guests, canine and human. Charlie is beloved by staff and guests for his warm, quietly loving demeanor.” —Owner Tammy Hauser. QUIRKY STORY Charlie loves sitting on the trolley bench— going on tours and looking out the window—especially on our Murder Mystery Show! He loves to look out the window and watch the world go by. We work hard at the Trolley Cottage Gift Shop and he gets to greet everyone so they know it’s his second home. The staff love him as do the guests, especially kids who spend time with him for our holiday Christmas shows. He’s therapeutic and unconditional in his acceptance of everyone. He has just been a wonderful employee!
THE 3-YEAR-OLD NIGERIAN DWARF GOAT
“Luna came to me as a cute, cuddly kid and now she’s a proud mama of two. But no matter how much time passes, she’s still my baby. She loves her walks, adores cuddles and in the winter, her fluffy coat makes her even more irresistible. She brings a smile to everyone she meets and still loves to snuggle just as much as ever!” —Owner Nichola Nagy FUN FACT She screams for no reason, just enjoys hearing herself. We often wonder what is going on but she probably just wants more animal crackers.” IF SHE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HER, IT WOULD BE The Bleat Beat with Luna - A Banter on Goat Gossip.
CLUTCH THE 13-YEAR-OLD
WEST HIGHLAND WHITE
TERRIER
“I had been looking for a dog for several months, and when I laid eyes on Clutch, I knew it was love at first sight! I did not know anything about her breed, but I knew I would find out.”—Owner Kari-Jo Koshes, pictured Justin Reynolds with Clutch PERFECT DAY We would wake up early and go on a long walk in one of the many beautiful Sarasota County parks. Then we would grab a bite to eat downtown somewhere where we could dine outside. We would end the day with another walk over the Ringling Bridge to enjoy the sunset and a quick dip in the water. QUIRKY STORY Clutch loves to swim in the ocean. She loves it so much that when we go over any bridges, we have to close the windows so she does not smell the salty air. Otherwise, she will cry until she can splash around in the water!
LOLA AND HUEY
THE 11-YEAR-OLD AND 12-YEAR-OLD CHIHUAHUA SIBLINGS
“When I decided to get a pet, I attended a local adoption event, determined to have first pick. I arrived so early that I was there before the rescue group had even started setting up. As they unloaded the dogs and went back to their cars to retrieve the pens, one pup ran straight over to me, jumped into my lap and calmly sat there, watching the chaos unfold. At that moment, I knew—I hadn’t just picked a dog; I had been chosen. I adopted her on the spot and named her Lola. A few years later, I decided Lola needed a friend. Around the same time, a local rescue was shut down due to animal hoarding, flooding the community with dogs in need of homes. When we saw Huey’s picture, we just knew he was the one. Unfortunately, Huey had been abused and earning his trust took time. But with patience and love, he slowly came around. Now, he and Lola are inseparable.”
Owner Gabriele Harris IF THEY HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER THEM, IT WOULD BE Little Dogs, Big Trouble: The Adventures of Lola & Huey
TEDDY THE 8-YEAR-OLD BLUE NOSE PITBULL
“Teddy and my now husband were a package deal. At first, this 90-lb bulky dog was running toward me and I was scared, the next I was covered in kisses and slobber. And a massive–and I mean as big as my palm–tongue. The scariest-looking dog is really the snuggliest, friendliest pup, and his name is SO fitting because he really is a big teddy bear. He loves to lay his big ole head on my chest and always has to be touching me while on the couch or in bed. He’s my best bud!”—Owner Britney Guertin, also picture is husband Sawyer McCraw and their second dog Lauren HEROIC STORY They say a dog’s love is pure but Teddy is truly our best bud. We went through a miscarriage and it was hard on both my body and mind and my husband had to go right back to work. Teddy didn’t leave my side and it’s like he knew I needed extra care and attention. Besides his kisses, cuddles and love, he was like a real guard dog those days. He checked me with his head, kept our puppy off me, and I swear he gave me eye contact trying to ask how I was! He knew and he was there in a way no human could be! And when I need a laugh, he’s always good for a smile or a silly face. He’s the best boo-boo ever!
NOVA
THE 6.5-YEAR-OLD STAFFY MIX
“Six months after getting married, we felt a deep need for a furry addition to our family. We searched rescues and shelters but never quite found the right match. Then, we stumbled upon a Craigslist listing for a litter of pitty/lab/boxer mix puppies in New Port Richey. Without thinking twice, we headed there. The moment we met her, we knew she instantly connected with us. Her unique markings, a white dot on her forehead and a white stripe down her back, made her even more special. From that day on, she became our baby girl and best friend. She’s the sweetest, most affectionate and sensitive little girl. Over time, she’s also become a frisbee and swimming athlete, and when I foster for Nate’s Honor Rescue, she’s the best Foster Dog Mommy. Thanks to her gentle nature, many of our foster pups have found loving homes. We couldn’t be more proud!” —Owner Rachel Belcher PERFECT DAY She wakes up slowly, enjoying lots of cuddles before breakfast—a tasty raw meal. Then she spends her morning happily sunbathing. Around mid-afternoon, we head to Gramma’s house for a refreshing swim in the pool. Back home, she takes a sunny cat nap, followed by some elite frisbee catching around 5 pm. Finally, it’s dinner time, then she relaxes on the couch, cuddled close to Mom and Dad.
BABY
THE 13-YEAR-OLD WHITE AND GREY TABBY CAT
“Baby was born in Seattle, Washington. She was the only light in the gloomy skies of the city. Moving from Seattle to Sarasota was tiring for poor Baby but she is happy to lay out in the Sarasota sun anytime now.” —Owner Mason Aaseslund PERFECT DAY (FROM BABY’S PERSPECTIVE) After waking up Mason from his sleep, I have my breakfast, the most important part of any cat’s day. When my belly is full and I am satisfied with the amount of kisses I have been given, I’ll go lay out in the sun but sometimes, it is wash day for my fur. After I am done with my morning routine I go to my meetings…meetings that I take via my dreams. After a long day of dreaming, Mason comes home and I know he will cook the best dinner. To wind down my long, tedious day, Mason and I chill on the couch and talk about our days. IF SHE HAD A TV SHOW OR PODCAST IT WOULD BE CALLED Baby Knows Best
FIONA LONGSTOCKINGS
THE 7-YEAR-OLD BULLMASTIFF
“Fiona is a therapy dog who works with the Child Protection Center and the 12th Judicial Circuit. She assists children with their appearances and testimonies in the court system. She also visits the victims’ advocates in the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Department and the Centerstone Mental Health Center. She visits with the children at the All Star Children’s Foundation in Sarasota and helps students destress at the IMG Academy, Manatee School for the Arts, State College of Florida and the reading program at the Manatee Elementary School. She has never met a person who couldn’t be her new best friend. Owner Lucia Topp HEROIC STORY One time, Fiona woke up from a deep sleep in the courtroom and looked around. She got up and pulled me to the front of the courtroom where she sat down next to a little girl who was talking to the judge because she knew that that was where she needed to be. IF SHE COULD TALK SHE’D ASK “Would you rub my belly? Would you rub it again? Are you going to eat that?”
BISCUIT
THE 5-YEAR-OLD GOLDEN RETRIEVER
“My best friend has bred goldens for 53 years. She knew we were looking for a new family member and she suggested a puppy she had just bred—then there was Biscuit”—Owner Sally Anne Gendron PERFECT DAY Biscuit loves “working”; he’s a certified pet therapy dog. Therefore Biscuit’s perfect day would consist of spreading love, kindness and dog hair to one of the many facilities he visits on a regular basis. This must include being told how gorgeous he is accompanied by multiple treats! HEROIC STORY One day, while Biscuit and I were visiting patients at SMH, we heard a sudden commotion down the hall, followed by multiple security officers rushing toward a room. Biscuit immediately pulled me in that direction, determined to see what was happening. As we approached, an older gentleman who was the patient in distress spotted Biscuit from across the room. I asked for permission to enter, and as soon as Biscuit stepped inside, a noticeable calm settled over the man. He began sharing heartfelt stories about dogs he’d loved throughout his life. Biscuit and I stayed with him until he was discharged, which was more than an hour later. We even walked alongside him to his transport vehicle. Biscuit has an intuitive ability to sense exactly where he’s needed. During our visits, he often seeks out individuals who inevitably look up and say, “I really needed him today.” He brings endless comfort, joy and unconditional love to everyone he meets at the local facilities we visit. IF HE HAD A TV SHOW/PODCAST IT WOULD BE CALLED Life . . . and How to Live It to the Fullest
BEAUREGARD BAXTER BROOKINS, AKA BODIE
THE 2-YEAR-OLD TUXEDO CAT
“Bodie was adopted from the Cat Depot to be a companion to my four-year-old Maine Coon cat. I didn’t want her to be alone so Bodie was the answer. He keeps her company whenever I’m not at home and keeps us busy with his constant antics. Unlike my more elusive Maine Coon cat, Bodie is an instant friend to everyone he meets. He was the most rambunctious kitten in the litter and he has certainly lived up to that!”—Owner Liz Brookins, pictured right. HEROIC STORY Bodie is a “watch cat” always on the alert to anything going on and rarely scared of noises or activities inside or outside. He sat next to me during Hurricane Milton providing me comfort when he wasn’t patrolling the house. IF HE HAD A TV SHOW/PODCAST IT WOULD BE CALLED Bodie’s House: I Just Let Her Live Here
PENNY BLOSSOM AND LULU PETALS
THE 13-YEAR-OLD AND 9-YEAR-OLD MINIATURE DACHSHUNDS
“I was afraid and uneasy around dogs until I was 25. In 2012, my partner at the time desperately wanted a dog and I finally agreed that I could handle a miniature dachshund (wiener dog), which was all he needed to hear. We found a dachshund puppy online and visited the “sanctuary” to meet her, later discovering that the “sanctuary” was involved in a local hoarding and fraud scandal. The tiny puppy waited for us curled up in a crate on a picnic table, weighing just four pounds, perfectly matching her original name, Cinnabons. We brought her home and renamed her Penny Blossom, inspired by her copper color and character from The Big Bang Theory. I quickly fell in love with Penny, a spirited and hilarious little “cocktail weenie,” and she completely transformed my relationship with animals. Fast forward a few years, it was just the two of us. Penny and I became a certified pet therapy team, visiting hospice patients. I started working at the Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC), and Penny joined me every day as the unofficial “Chief Happiness Officer.” Our duo expanded in September 2019 when a long-haired dachshund named Lulu was surrendered to HSSC. Though I wasn’t looking for another dog, Lulu’s charm quickly won me over—much to Penny’s initial dismay. We found our rhythm when we started visiting HSSC’s Fur Fun Summer Camps. With two dachshund-sized Wonder Woman costumes and my own cape, we introduced a segment called Story Time with Miss Autumn and the Wonder Weenies. We repeated our roles for several summers, creating some of my fondest memories. Now that I’ve left HSSC, the girls are officially “retired.” Penny Blossom is now 13, and Lulu Petals is nearly 10. Reflecting on how I went from not wanting a dog to loving two dogs more than anything reminds me that the best things often arrive when you least expect them.”—Owner Autumn Steiner
STELLA LUNA
THE 1.5-YEAR-OLD LABRADOR RETRIEVER PITBULL MIX
“After a failed attempt at adopting a dear friend’s Shepherd when he discovered his new wife became deathly allergic to his dog, our daughter, Sienna, was heartbroken. We were not looking to adopt a dog, but we’re hoping to help our friend. I made the mistake of saying, “why don’t we go visit some puppies at the local shelter.” We arrived at Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue and only made it past the sixth kennel. Stella Luna was two months and 20 pounds when we met her. It took about five minutes and we had all fallen in love. Stella had been bitten by ants and had scars all over her. Knowing she might be part Pitbull, we did not know what to expect for size. At just a year and a half old, she is a strong 55 pounds in counting.”—Owner Veronica Thames PERFECT DAY Stella Luna’s perfect day involves a 2-mile walk, breakfast of Grandma’s homemade chicken recipe, a nap, watching Mom work, a game of frisbee or tug outside and a golf cart ride. And when weather permits, eating the crumbs of the s’mores made at the fire pit. NOTE FROM STELLA LUNA Because some of us like to get in trouble, and some of us are less fortunate and might need a little help, let me remind you Manatee Community Foundation has philanthropic dollars available to support animal welfare across our region.
HOPE
THE 28-INCH-TALL MINIATURE THERAPY HORSE
“I am the proud owner of Hope, a 28-inch miniature therapy horse who has become a beacon of comfort and joy to many. As an animal lover passionate about helping others, I saw the powerful bond between horses and humans and knew it could make a difference. This led to the creation of Horses Helping Hearts 10 years ago. Hope is more than just a therapy animal—she is a registered Miniature Horse with a 501(c)(3) certification, allowing us to visit hospitals, schools and other places in need of healing and emotional support. Through our organization, people can connect with Hope and experience the calming, therapeutic benefits of being around horses. Hope resides at my horse stable, Branded Heart, where I welcome friends, family, and strangers alike to come and interact with the horses. Our mission is to spread positivity, comfort and healing, one hoofbeat at a time. We are dedicated to giving people the chance to experience the unconditional love and support that only animals can provide.”—Owner Kathy Genth FUN FACT Hope loves to wear shoes from Builda-Bear when we go out to visit the public!” IF SHE HAD A SHOW NAMED AFTER HER, IT WOULD BE Horses Healing Hearts
FREYJA
THE 6-YEAR-OLD
“Freyja is my Cardiac Alert Medical Service Dog, born in my home on December 12, 2018. Her caring nature comes naturally. As a co-matriarch of our kennel, she has taken her role seriously since the passing of our line’s elders. She’s always watchful over the puppies, but her top priority is me—alerting me when my heart is acting up. For two years, my doctors struggled to pinpoint the cause of my symptoms until I was finally diagnosed with AFIB. Through careful documentation, I proved that every recorded incident on my monitor matched one of Freyja’s alerts.” —Owner Debbi Willis HEROIC STORY When Freyja gets hyper and twirls, it’s her way of telling me two things: 1) I need to sit down, and 2) I need to check my blood pressure. Without her, I’d be at risk for a stroke or heart failure. One day, while doing maintenance on the lakefront, I felt fine but had pushed my limits. Freyja wouldn’t leave me alone—nudging and nipping at me to put the tools down and go inside. I was overheated, short of breath, and unknowingly dehydrated, causing my blood pressure to drop to 86/50. I was determined to finish but Freyja had other plans—she refused to let me continue. IF SHE HAD A TV SHOW, IT WOULD BE CALLED Freyja: The Canine Cardiac Champion
PUREBRED GERMAN SHEPHERD
RIO
THE 34.5-YEAR-OLD PASO FINO HORSE
“I bought Rio 24 years ago as a trail-riding horse. In his teens, he suffered from Cushing’s disease and later suspensory ligament disease. We tried everything available to treat him, even special herbs from Ireland. Four different vet clinics advised putting him down. But then, a neighbor I didn’t yet know noticed Rio and offered to try laser therapy, a veterinary technique she was just learning. She worked on him daily as he lay on the ground. By the second day, he began eating again, and on the fourth day, after an entire week down, he finally stood up. Over weeks and months, Rio made an incredible recovery. The Cushing’s disease disappeared, and today you’d never guess his fetlocks once touched the ground. He became rideable again—back to being a normal, healthy horse.”—Owner Eileen Fitzgerald PERFECT DAY (FROM RIO’S PERSPECTIVE (FROM RIO’S PERSPECTIVE) Breakfast is soaked pellets and senior grain, followed by a lazy day lounging by the water tank, munching on mouthfuls of fresh green grass. Then it’s dinner time, topped off with a brilliant Florida sunset that makes my mane and tail glow. SRQ
We enjoy getting to know the pets who are submitted each year for SRQ Magazine’s Pets We Love Competition. Thank you to our readers for sharing their pets’ stories, perfect days and fondest memories. If you’d like to vote for the Fan Favorite from this year’s Best in Show 25 Pets We Love, voting opens on May 1, 2025 at SRQMAG.COM/PETSWELOVE
HIGHER EDUCATION
GUIDE TO COLLEGES
NEW COLLEGE OF FLORIDA
STATE COLLEGE OF FLORIDA, MANATEE-SARASOTA
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA, SARASOTA-MANATEE CAMPUS
RINGLING SCHOOL OF ART & DESIGN
LAKE ERIE COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE
LAKE ERIE COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE
DISCIPLINE KNOWLEDGE
EXPANDING WITH OUR REGION CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
Students completing a degree at LECOM will be able to demonstrate appropriate knowledge specific to their respective discipline.
PROFESSIONALISM
Students completing a degree at LECOM will be able to demonstrate effective skills and attitudes that represent an understanding of professionalism and ethical practice.
OSTEOPATHIC PHILOSOPHY
Students will adopt a holistic approach to the education and practice of their respective discipline.
“The success of our institution will not be judged by our size or number of locations but will depend upon the accomplishments of our graduates and their appreciation of the great opportunity that has been afforded them in becoming an osteopathic physician. It will depend upon their ability to represent us well in upholding our tradition of a peopleoriented practice of medicine no matter what specialty they choose or area of the country in which they practice.”
The Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) is the nation’s largest medical college and is the only Academic Health Center in the osteopathic profession. Physicians and administrators at the Millcreek Community Hospital saw the growing demand for more physicians and opened LECOM in 1992. With the college and the hospital as the core of a highly innovative medical education system based in Erie, PA., LECOM has strived to add to the quality of life of our neighbors by bringing total health care to the community. The College brought a new concept in medical fitness and wellness to Erie, built a network of physician offices, and is the core of the nation’s only osteopathic academic health center, LECOM Health, a highly innovative, multifaceted health care and education system. LECOM offers innovative and affordable education in osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, and dental medicine. From campuses in Erie and Greensburg, PA, Bradenton, FL., and Elmira, NY, LECOM provides student-centered pathways to prepare the next generation of health care professionals. The mission of the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, is to prepare students to become osteopathic physicians, pharmacy practitioners, dentists, and podiatric physicians through programs of excellence in education, research, clinical care, and community service to enhance the quality of life through improved health for all humanity. Serving as a guiding light and cornerstone in medical education and true to the core principles of its founders, the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine has expanded its reach to include exceptional programs in graduate studies designed to provide scholars superlative education in the respective areas of study. The professional programs are dedicated to serve all students through innovative curriculum and the development of postdoctoral education and interprofessional experiences.
John M. Ferretti, DO, LECOM President/CEO
NEW COLLEGE OF FLORIDA
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
NARRATIVE EVALUATIONS
Instead of traditional letter grades, New College uses narrative evaluations to assess student progress and achievement. Faculty provide detailed written assessments that offer personalized feedback and guidance, allowing students to focus on their growth and development rather than a simple letter or number grade.
INDEPENDENT LEARNING
Every undergraduate student is required to complete tutorials and Independent Study Projects that combine a personalized education with passionate, independent learning. By working independently (alongside peers and faculty sponsors), students develop autonomy.
CAPSTONE HONORS THESIS
Every major requires the completion of a capstone honors thesis. These independent research projects, which often exceed 100 pages, allow students to delve deeply into their Area of Concentration and display their intellectual capabilities and analytical skills.
New College of Florida follows a distinctive model as a public liberal arts honors college. First and foremost, New College offers a rigorous undergraduate education focused on excellence in the liberal arts, including the sciences, emphasizing critical thinking and intellectual curiosity in pursuit of the truth. At New College, students have the opportunity to create their own academic programs and design their own course of study with the guidance of faculty advisors. This individualized approach allows students to pursue their interests, explore interdisciplinary connections, and tailor their education to their unique goals and passions.
“We are setting the standard for modern liberal arts education in America. The ancient Greek mathematician, Archimedes, believed math derived from a single point on a plane, saying ‘Give me a firm place to stand, and I will move the earth.’ New College will be that firm place.”
Richard Corcoran, President, New College of Florida
New College recognizes that not all students are the same, and not all classes are the same. The Contract System allows students to work closely with faculty advisors to tailor learning paths to individual students’ interests, goals, and strengths, creating a more customized, meaningful, and adventurous educational experience. More importantly, the Contract System encourages risk, allowing students to explore outside of their competencies. This risk-tolerant academic structure enables students to push themselves into areas of potential failure, which is the equation for growth and innovation. All students at New College must balance the Ancient Greek concepts of Logos and Techne in their educational odyssey. By balancing Logos and Techne, and understanding the relationship between them, students experience a truly holistic education: not only do they face the great intellectual expanse of humanity’s Great Works, but they also gain the tools, techniques, and mindset necessary to create, innovate, and apply knowledge in a tangible and purposeful manner.
Founded in Sarasota in 1960, New College of Florida was named the No. 1 Public Liberal Arts College by Washington Monthly in 2023 and is the Honors College of Florida. New College provides students with limitless, original opportunities for success through a highly individualized education that combines academic excellence, undergraduate research opportunities, and career preparation experiences. New College offers more than 50 undergraduate majors in arts, humanities and sciences; a master’s degree program in applied data science; exceptional STEM opportunities, including a home for world-class marine biology and marine mammal studies; and intercollegiate athletics in the NAIA.
RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
CREATIVE PROGRAMS
EXPANDING WITH OUR REGION
BFA programs: Computer Animation, Creative Writing, Entertainment Design, Film, Fine Arts, Game Art, Graphic Design, Illustration, Motion Design, Photography and Imaging, and Virtual Reality Development; BA programs: Business of Art and Design, Visual Studies. Ringling’s degree programs are top-ranked among the best in the U.S. and the world.
INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE
INDEX (Industry Experience) is an experiential education program that provides all students the opportunity to gain professional experience prior to graduation by connecting them with leading brands to develop creative solutions to business challenges. INDEX represents the College’s priority and purpose: to focus on students’ futures and to empower them as creative leaders.
CAREER SERVICES
Ringling College of Art and Design is internationally recognized as one of the top art and design colleges, worldwide. Each year, their academic programs are consistently ranked as the best in the country and the world.
The Center for Career Services connects students with 100+ industry recruiters each year. They offer training and career preparation services, such as job search strategies, resume reviewing, interview training, portfolio building, and networking events. Career services are available to students and alumni for life.
“At Ringling College, we prepare students for success in tomorrow’s world, positioning them to emerge as leaders in an economy that relies heavily on creative skills and thinking, especially during this onset of artificial intelligence and automation. We are committed to helping our students turn their creative passions into their professions.”
Dr. Larry R. Thompson President, Ringling College of Art and Design
Since 1931, Ringling College has cultivated the creative spirit in students from around the globe. The College’s rigorous curriculum employs the studio model of teaching and immediately engages students through a comprehensive program that is both specifi c to the major of study and focused on the liberal arts. Our teaching model ultimately shapes students into highly employable and globally aware artists and designers. Beyond our rigorous curriculum— pairing studio and liberal arts—we excel in propelling students outside of the classroom through client projects, substantive internships, and national competitions, stopping at nothing to shape our students into tomorrow’s leaders of art and design. Ringling College supports diversity in all forms. Our student body comes from 54 countries, 45 United States, and Puerto Rico. An active Student Life program supports multiple clubs and organizations, leadership and volunteerism opportunities, and student support services. Over 80% of our students live on our beautiful, residential campus.
Students are set up for success with access to cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art facilities, as well as seven on-campus galleries. The Ringling College Museum Campus is home to the Sarasota Art Museum, and studio and lifelong learning programs. Ringling College is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
STATE COLLEGE OF FLORIDA
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
ASSOCIATE IN ARTS DEGREE
SCF’s Associate in Arts degree is designed for students, who upon graduation from SCF, plan to transfer to a public or private college/university to pursue a bachelor’s degree in their area of study. SCF’s Associate in Science degrees provide practical training and critical thinking skills to help graduates enter the workforce immediately in well-paying jobs.
BACCALAUREATE DEGREES
SCF offers seven baccalaureate degrees in the areas of Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Exceptional Student Education, Health Services Administration, Management and Leadership, Nursing, and Public Safety and Emergency Management.
TECHNICAL AND ADVANCED CERTIFICATES
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF), is shaping the future of higher education and empowering the community through innovation and leadership. SCF partners with the community to expand opportunities, drive workforce development and enhance the region’s economic growth. As an open-access and student- focused institution, SCF provides flexible scheduling, in-person and online learning options and affordable tuition. Success coaches provide academic and career guidance, while scholarships, grants, federal financial aid and payment plans help remove financial barriers to earning a degree.
SCF offers over 36 technical and advanced certifi cates that train students in specialized fi elds. Most certificates include credits that translate directly to the requirements for an associate degree, and some can be completed in as little as one year.
“At SCF, success is within reach for students of all ages. Whether you’re just starting your educational journey or returning to build new skills, we provide affordable access and the support you need to achieve your goals. Together, we’ll ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed, graduate and thrive.”
Tommy
President of
Gregory, J.D.
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota
SCF offers more than 30 workforce degrees, three dozen certificates and seven bachelor’s degrees to provide students opportunities to work in high-demand careers. An array of signature offerings engages students and the community. With early college for high school students, a nationally renowned nursing program and university partnerships, SCF is at the forefront of teaching the skills employers are seeking. In addition to its high standards for educating students, SCF offers the only full college experience in Manatee and Sarasota counties, with intercollegiate athletics, intramural sports, student clubs and fine and performing arts.
Lifelong Learning and Workforce Development provides noncredit continuing education, personal enrichment and select credit-related programs at SCF campuses and community, business and industry locations. These programs provide students with the opportunity to quickly earn new credentials, reenter the workforce, launch a career or advance in their current profession. In the 26West Center, aspiring entrepreneurs can develop their business, while future programmers gain hands-on experience through the SCF Coding Academy. The Center also houses the Business Growth Lab, Digital Collective and Advanced Technology Center fostering innovation and professional growth.
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA
HERE FOR OUR GROWING COMMUNITY
EXPANDING WITH OUR REGION CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
The College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, the College of Education and the College of Nursing work with the local community to prepare students for careers in education, healthcare, communications sciences and disorders, aging studies, mental health policy, social work, the criminal justice system and other fields.
HERE FOR OUR GROWING MARKETPLACE
The Muma College of Business expanded its School of Hospitality and Tourism Management and The Baldwin Risk Partners School of Risk Management and Insurance. This growth initiative equips graduates with the skills needed to navigate the evolving and complex demands of their industries, fostering innovation and leadership across these sectors.
HERE FOR OUR GROWING FUTURE
USF is the first in Florida—and among the first nationwide—to launch a college dedicated to AI and cybersecurity with the Bellini College of Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and Computing. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs integrating AI and cybersecurity into real-world applications, along with AI-driven research for next-generation cybersecurity solutions.
USF Sarasota-Manatee is a hub for innovation and opportunity, offering students a world-class education in a close-knit, dynamic environment. With programs in cybersecurity, hospitality, nursing, and risk management, students develop the skills needed for high-demand careers while gaining hands-on experience in state-of-the-art spaces like the Bloomberg Lab, Nursing Lab, and College of Education Collaboratory.
USF’s reputation for excellence reached new heights in 2023 when it became just the third Florida university invited to join the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU), recognizing its leadership in research and innovation.
“With the opening of our new Student Center and Atala Residence Hall, we are fostering a vibrant campus experience built on connection and purpose. USF is advancing groundbreaking discoveries that impact Tampa Bay. When you look at our community, you may not see our campus — but when you look at our campus, you will see our whole community. Through experiential learning and dedicated support, we empower students to thrive and contribute to our future—an achievement our entire community can be proud of.”
A game-changer for campus life, the new 100,000-square-foot Student Center and Atala Residence Hall opened in 2024. The top four floors provide 200 students with a home featuring stunning views of Sarasota Bay and SRQ Airport. The first two floors include a dining hall, book store, offices for USF World, student government, and other activities, and a ballroom available to the community to host events - creating a vibrant hub for connection and growth. We invite you to explore USF Sarasota-Manatee—online or in person—and discover how you can thrive here.
USF Sarasota-Manatee is a campus of the University of South Florida, a high-impact research university dedicated to student success and committed to community engagement. USF is situated in the vibrant Tampa Bay region, with campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Sarasota-Manatee. Together, our campuses serve nearly 50,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist and professional degrees. Across our 14 colleges, undergraduates choose from more than 200 majors, minors and concentrations, from business and engineering to the arts and USF Health.
SARASOTA-MANATEE
culture city
ENDEDANS’ ENCORE
Tania Vergara Perez revives a dream with Endedans Contemporary Ballet. Phil Lederer
Below: Cuban American master teacher and choreographer, Tania Vergara Perez.
WHEN TANIA VERGARA PEREZ LEFT CUBA, SHE LEFT HER DREAM WITH IT. A life devoted to dance had borne fruit, and Perez was the founder and choreographer of her own award-winning dance company: Ballet Contemporáneo Endedans. Her work appeared on stages from Johannesburg to Tokyo, and between raising children and teaching at the National Ballet School in Havana, she saw the world. But parents will do anything for their children. That was 2014. Today, at the helm of the new Endedans Contemporary Ballet, Perez is bringing her blend of Cuban ballet, contemporary dance, and classic theater to the Sarasota stage through collaborations with Sarasota Cuban Ballet School and Sarasota Contemporary Dance. SRQ caught up with Perez between premieres to talk philosophy, inspiration, her favorite movie and a troublesome trend threatening modern ballet.
WHAT MAKES CUBAN BALLET DISTINCT FROM OTHER SCHOOLS OF BALLET? TANIA VERGARA
PEREZ In the ‘70s, Cuban ballet revealed itself to the world with a modern choreographic repertoire with Afro-Cuban sounds. It draws heavily from the old Russian school, but with changes adapted to the Caribbean physique. The technical work is intense: a lot of emphasis placed on the lines of the legs, the way of making turns, the highest and most open passés—the most en dehors attitude and combinations of jumps and turns of all kinds for the men. Emphasis is also placed on the interpretation, due to the influence of popular Cuban dances and the open and casual manner of the Cuban.
HOW DOES ENDEDANS FIT INTO THAT TRADITION?
I started Endedans in Cuba without great ambitions but with great hopes of bringing together people with a vision similar to mine, focused on developing innovative work in the national dance scene. Cuba
had (and has) excellent classical, folkloric and contemporary companies, but there were none that were contemporary ballet companies, and I was influenced by the few that came to Cuba in the early 21st century: William Forsythe with his aggressive and precise style; the poetry of Jiri Kylian’s movement; the rawness of Mats Ek; and the casualness of DV8 Physical Theatre, with its “The Cost of Living.” And prior to all of them, the minimalism and theatricality of Pina Bausch.
WHY CHOOSE ENDEDANS FOR THE NAME OF YOUR COMPANY? En dedans means “inward,” in French. In ballet, it refers to the direction of a movement, whether it is a turn, a sequence of steps or a combination of exercises. It is the opposite of en dehors, which is outward and is what characterizes classical ballet. I liked the name for two reasons: it expresses that this would not be traditional classical ballet and it suggests an introspective sensibility. And here in the US, people often associate endedans with the word dance and sometimes they even write “and the dance,” which I find very nice.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BALLET?
Ballet is a centuries-old art that comes from aristocratic castes but has still become increasingly popular. It could have disappeared or been more elitist, due to the economic investment it entails and the number of years it takes a person to master. However, we see it grow, and good dancers proliferate worldwide.
I also like the choreographic art of the great classics— the perfect synchronization of story-music-movement; the geometric visuality of large ensembles of corps de ballets; the physical strength of the male dancer, who is largely responsible for the ethereal illusion of the female dancer; and the invention of pointe shoes to create exquisite lines and tell romantic stories.
WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE? Ballet turning into a sport, where physical training has a greater role than interpretation. More and more, competitions and contests appear that validate big extensions, turns and acrobatics over a clean execution, with nuances in each step, organic transitions and a sense of interpretation. The value of musicality, the emotional connection with what is performed, the concept of what is danced is ignored; ballet becomes a commercial product, a rote execution of steps rather than communication through
culture
city
movement. The competitiveness and desire to fill social networks with trophies is so great that 5- or 6-year-old girls are already seen dancing en pointe, with all the orthopedic risks that this can entail.
HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE YOUR CHOREOGRAPHIC STYLE? My style is defined in its concept more than in the dance language. When approaching a work, I typically use elements to accompany the dance— tables, chairs, stage structures, costumes, curtains, projections. Often my work is humorous or evocative and otherworldly. I try to create pieces that take the viewer to some part of their inner experience.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE BALLETS TO SEE PERFORMED? My favorites are Giselle and Swan Lake, works I have seen many times throughout my life and that can still move me to tears. But my spirit is closer to contemporary ballet. Giselle by Akram Khan left me speechless; Swan Lake by Matthew Bourne is amazing.
DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE MOVIE ABOUT DANCE?
The original version of West Side Story is my favorite movie. The plot, the ingenious way of recreating the choreography, the use of space, the perfect use of music, the performance of the cast, everything is excellent to me. It is a social denunciation, like Romeo and Juliet was in its time, taking up the theme of divisions within society in a very well-done way. As for dance in cinema, I would mention a controversial scene that addresses the dark side of prima ballerinas: the moment when Natalie Portman’s Black Swan character grows her black wings. The story is taken to the limit and upsets many due to its crudeness, but its essence is real: the life of classical dancers in a ballet company is difficult. The desire to get leading roles, the fear of not being chosen by the choreographer, the rivalry with other dancers, the fear of growing old, the fear of being replaced.
LOOKING BACK ON A LIFE OF DANCE, WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED ABOUT WHAT DANCE MEANS TO THE HUMAN SPIRIT? Dance is a very grateful art. However you feel emotionally or physically, dance elevates you to positive areas of the soul that will make you see anguish and ailments with a better perspective. It is like a refuge in a lyrical and sacred place, a therapy, in addition to the positive physical benefits that a trained body provides. Dance unites spirits; it turns the group of people with whom you work side by side into family, sharing not only time but your body, your sweat, your hunger, your physical pain, your joys, your frustrations—a guild with which you joyfully identify. It is a form of expression so genuine.
IF YOU COULD TRAVEL BACK IN TIME, WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOURSELF? I think I would only observe, so as not to alter anything about the story and the path that helped me grow, mature and learn. Maybe delete the works that didn’t turn out well.
WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON NOW? A new project inspired by a series of mangrove paintings by my husband Guillermo López, who has been studying their importance to the ecosystem. The piece is called The Paradox of the Mirror and has the mangrove as its central theme, referring to the similarity of its shapes with the bodies of the dancers. Projected video images will contribute to the parallels between the mangrove roots, which symbolize cultural heritage and the connection with the past, and the plants’ growth and movement, which suggest evolution and change. The dancers appear in the projections, moving among the mangroves, as well as live on the stage. It will premiere in June 2025 at the Squeaky Wheel Fringe Festival and we hope readers will go to the performance at the Asolo Repertory Theater and get to know our work up close.
IF SOMEONE WERE TO DESCRIBE ENDEDANS CONTEMPORARY BALLET IN FIVE WORDS, WHAT WOULD YOU WANT THEM TO BE? Ingenious, innovative, refreshing, collaborative, immersive. SRQ
Above: You can learn more about Tania Vergara Perez and find video links to Endedans Contemporary Ballet performances on her website: www. TaniaVergara.net.
CURRENTS OF RESISTANCE
Exploring the intersection of culture and nature with Currents of Resistance, Sandy Rodriguez’s groundbreaking exhibition at The Ringling. Barbie Heit
THE HERMITAGE GREENFIELD PRIZE (HGP) IS A PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL COMMISSION presented by the Hermitage Artist Retreat in collaboration with the Philadelphia-based Greenfield Foundation. The $35,000 award rotates annually among music, theater and visual art. In 2023, celebrated visual artist Sandy Rodriguez was named the winner and this spring, she premiered her original works created through the commission at The Ringling Museum of Art. This exhibition, Currents of Resistance, was displayed in the Keith D. Monda Gallery for Contemporary Art and marked a significant moment in the ongoing series showcasing Hermitage Greenfield Prize-winning visual artists at The Ringling. Rodriguez, along with Andy Sandberg, Hermitage Artistic Director and CEO, and Christopher Jones, the Stanton B. and Nancy W. Kaplan Curator of Photography and Media Arts at The Ringling, sat down to discuss the exhibition and the impact of the Hermitage Greenfield Prize with SRQ.
HOW HAVE YOU GOTTEN TO THIS POINT IN YOUR CAREER AS AN ARTIST? SANDY RODRIGUEZ I am a third-generation painter raised along the US-Mexico border in Southern California. I trained in the early 90s at Cal Arts–California Institute of Arts—which is a conceptual art program and have been working on this series, the Codex Rodriguez-Mondragón since 2017. This series maps moments of resistance to colonial aggression and envisions a different kind of future. I work with traditional materials that are sourced from the history of image-making in the Americas so I’m processing all of my paints using 16th-century recipes from plants and minerals that are locally sourced from the locations that I’m painting. I work on a traditional paper supporting that and this exhibition that I have been commissioned to create for you all. They’ve been a labor of love for the past two years with The Greenfield Hermitage Prize and premiering with the Ringling Museum.
WHAT INSPIRES YOUR WORK? My grandparents both painted and my mom was a painter—we had been trained and worked in the European tradition so working in oil on canvas. After my tenure in museum education, there was a moment in about 2016 when I started investigating material of the Americas when I started doing a lot of ethnobotany (the study of the relationships between people and plants) and native plant research and the two came together in a very unexpected way but in a way that’s potent for telling stories of the Americas using traditional material.
WALK US THROUGH THE PROCESS OF HOW YOU SELECT YOUR MATERIALS. Several extraordinary plants grow within every region and one of the key things is to understand the fauna and flora of the area and the kinds of communities that exist there and nowhere else in the world. If I’m looking at a region for example in southern Florida, I’m going to be interested in learning about which plants were used for dye in medicine and then there is a process of extracting that color which is really about chemistry and science and using a lot of different materials to shift the color to then make a handprocessed watercolor. If I’m thinking about soils of the region or minerals from the region, then it also involves a kind of technical processing to crush these minerals and bind them into watercolor paint. I’m telling the story of the region with the materials from that region and with the life force from that region.
WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR AUDIENCE TO TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR WORK? That there are some extraordinary histories if you just scratched the surface about resistance, resilience,and imagining a new future that goes back hundreds and hundreds of years and is just beneath the surface if you look and do that kind of research within your community by working with historians, anthropologists, ethnobotanists, artists, writers, and dancers . . . there is a lot that we don’t know.
ANDY, CAN YOU SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE HERMITAGE GREENFIELD PRIZE AS IT RELATES TO SANDY’S WORK? ANDY SANDBERG Everyone needs to acknowledge how this all came to be. Arts leaders in their respective fields came together and were encouraged to think of an infinity of artists and explore who would make the most of this opportunity and who would take on the mantle of the mission of the prize, which is to bring into the world works of art that have an impact on the broad as well as the cultural aspect of our society. Sandy’s proposal grabbed the jury and she was selected as one of four finalists who presented this. It was the 15th anniversary so Sandy was awarded in visual art and we simultaneously awarded Rennie Harris in dance and choreography. And I think they had never met before but became fast friends through the journey together.
CHRIS, LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR INVOLVEMENT WITH THIS EXHIBITION. CHRISTOPHER JONES
This is our fifth project working with visual artists here. Helping artists realize new work that’s commissioned by The Hermitage Greenfield Prize has brought us into connection with some of the most amazing contemporary artists working now. One of the things that’s so exciting working with Sandy is that her work, up to now, has really dealt with the Southwest United States and Mexico and, having an artist work with our area and engage with, in our particular history, ethnobotany and indigenous culture has been exciting at the state art museum of Florida and it’s helped us to refocus on our environment and culture here right in our area. SRQ
Above, left to right: Currents of Resistance on display at The Ringling; 2023 Hermitage Greenfield Prize Winner Sandy Rodriguez .
FORGED IN FIRE
At The Ringling’s Radical Clay exhibition, a history of Japanese contemporary ceramists is on full view. Dylan Campbell
FOR JAPANESE CERAMICISTS SUCH AS TSUJI KYO (1930-2008) AND MISHIMA KIMIYO (1932-2024) their work in the kiln was about more than just firing their next piece. It was about forging a path forward for female ceramic artists in Japan, creating a legacy that has continued on well into the 21st century. The Ringling Museum’s exhibition Radical Clay: Contemporary Women Artists from Japan celebrates that legacy by showcasing 41 ceramic sculptures from 36 contemporary female Japanese artists. The exhibition, which includes pieces from Kyo and Kimiyo, features works from a range of artists drawing from vastly different styles and techniques. Radical Clay, which was first shown at The Art Institute of Chicago, provides a glimpse into the scope of these early artists’ influence—grouped alongside works from the likes of Tsuji Kyo and Mishima Kimiyo are pieces from emerging artists such as Mori Aya (b. 1989) and Sayuri Ikake (b.1990).
Opposite page:
Bag Work, Yu Tanaka, glazed Shigaraki stoneware. Above, left to right: Wandering, Makiko Hattori, porcelaneous stoneware applied with shaved clay; Chinese-Brocade Ancient Skirt, Asuka Tsuboi, glazed stoneware with gilding; Untitled (Crushed Asahi Beer Box), Kimiyo Mishima, glazed and silkscreen stoneware. Radical Clay is on view until May 11, 2025. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art,5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota, 941359-5700, ringling.org
“All but three of the artists represented in the exhibition are still active,” says Rhiannon Paget, The Ringling’s Curator of Asian Art. “The show represents this vast generational spread of Japanese ceramic artists of the 20th century. In the past it certainly wasn’t easy to become an artist, let alone a ceramic artist in Japan. There was this first generation of artists, like Tsuji Kyo for example, who had to battle against the social expectations and prejudices held towards women at the time.” Although women have a long history within Japanese ceramics, it wasn’t until after the second World War that they began to establish themselves as independent artists. Admission into arts universities didn’t begin until after the war—1946 marked the first year that women were admitted into the University of Tokyo—and working in the wood-fired kilns where ceramics were made was barred largely by superstition.
“There was a lot of fear around having women at kiln sites, which were governed by Shinto beliefs,” says Paget. “Women were always seen as kind of impure and the thought was that you didn’t want to disrupt the Kami or kiln gods that took care of these kilns by allowing women around them. There was also the fact that kilns were dirty and dangerous and seen often as no place for a woman.”
While women were involved in ceramics, it was typically as surface decorators, working with paints and enamels to design the surface of pieces instead of creating their own works. For Tsuji Kyo, who was trained as a painter and married to prominent ceramicist Tsuji Seimei, breaking out with her own work meant shielding her identity from the world—Kyo changed her name from Kyoko to Kyo to ensure that her female identity wouldn’t be revealed at competitions. Others, like Tokuda Yasokichi IV (b. 1961), came from a heritage of ceramic art making. Tokuda Yasokichi IV inherited her
name from her father, Takuda Yasokichi III, a “Living National Treasure” artist heralded for his preservation of Kutani porcelain production. With no male successors to the bloodline, Tokuda Yasokichi IV was trained by her father and has kept the tradition alive, albeit with her own personal style. “Her piece Rising Dragon is this incredible white and blue porcelain vessel and it’s one of my favorite pieces in the exhibition,” says Paget. “The techniques that she uses are very similar to those that her father and grandfather used before her, but the forms that she builds and the way that she employs color are aesthetically very different.” The work featured in Radical Clay ranges broadly not just in the date that it was created, but in style and subject matter. Some of the pieces like Tsuji Kyo’s Plate with Moth Design or Tokuda Yasokichi IV’s Rising Dragon appear as more traditional ceramic vessels, while others such as Makiko Hattori’s Samayou;Wandering are full fledged contemporary conceptual sculptures.
“It’s this kind of globular, swirl-shaped ceramic that’s covered in these ribbons of shaved porcelain,” says Paget of Hattori Makiko’s piece. “It’s breathtaking because the techniques are so original and are done so well. These artists are so inspiring in their dedication to their art form and commitment to making art at this extremely high conceptual and technical level.”
Mori Aya’s work also pushes the boundaries of what was thought to be possible in ceramic sculpture. Sarcotesta (Fleshy Seedcoat) is made from glazed stoneware and seems to undulate as if alive underwater. “She’s one of several artists that make these forms that look almost biological in their inspiration,” says Paget. “It’s this massive piece that looks like some kind of sea creature, maybe a sea sponge or piece of coral that has grown for hundreds of years under the sea. It doesn’t quite look like clay and in that sense, it defies the properties of its own media.” SRQ
PAW-TY ETIQUETTE Happy Birthday Book Dog Toy $19.95, Birthday Cake Dog Toy $9.95, Wet Noses Grooming Sarasota, 1465 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236, (941) 388-3647, Aprawrol Spritz Dog Toy $16.99, Limoncello Dog Toy $16.99, Pretzel Baked Good $8, Small Cupcake Baked Good $5, Cannoli Baked Good $5, Woof Gang, 8341 Market St, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202, 941-907-9111.
RUFFING IT IN STYLE
Give your pets a fantasy to live out while you’re away at work.
Jennifer Villagomez
CAMP PAWWOOD Injoya Cookie Snuffle Mat $45.99, SRQ collar, medium $27.99, Tall Tails Dog Toy Natural Leather & Wool Trout 16” $18.99, Dream Chaser Cuddle Bed XS $44.99, Tender –Tufts, Happy Catctus $13.99, Tall Tails Dog Toy Antler Chew S $9.99, Benebone Poppy Maplestick $13.99, Tall Tails Dog Toy Plush Stuffless Squirrel 16” $14.99, Dog Perfect, 4820 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34231, 941-564-0094, Pup Trucker Hat for Dogs $24.95, Pup Backpack $12.95, Wet Noses Grooming Sarasota, 1465 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236, 941-388-3647.
This spread, left to right: Need caption.
Lefty’s Oyster & Seafood Bar, 482 N Lemon Ave, Sarasota, 941-954-8688, leftysoysterseafood.com/
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THE CATCH OF THE DAY
Lefty’s Oyster and Seafood Bar is the Rosemary District’s newest seafood destination. Dylan Campbell
COOL AFTERNOON LIGHT FILTERS THROUGH THE OPEN GARAGE DOORS AT LEFTY’S OYSTER AND SEAFOOD BAR. Outside is a formidable covered patio, the roof lined with string lights and the fenceline with palm trees, amarillas and aged oyster shells. On the table is the garden party, a cocktail featuring Empress Indigo gin, fresh lime juice, cucumber, mint and prosecco floated with a splash of Elderflower liquor and garnished with a cucumber twist. The cocktail, a delicate, bubbly affair, is rooted in detail—General Manager Dan Katz developed the drink as a nod to the patio’s lush landscaping and creates all of the syrups and concentrates that define his cocktails in house. In fact, everything at Lefty’s is rooted in detail and authenticity, from the framed black and white photos of oyster farmers and fishermen to the fried frog legs offered on the menu, courtesy of co-owner Chip White’s childhood spent gigging for frogs in Lake Okeechobee. Operating in the former location of the Rosemary District’s Mandeville Beer Garden, Lefty’s, the newest venture from Watershed Hospitality Concepts (WHC) is designed to be a destination, but not a “destination.” “We want Lefty’s to be a place for regulars, not a place for a destination dinner,” says White. “Especially here with the walkability of the Rosemary District, we want you to be able to walk to Lefty’s, get a fair price and then walk home afterwards.”
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Below,
That choice, however, is not a compromise. The team at Lefty’s is dedicated to creating innovative takes on classic dishes, all with the intention of highlighting the food that makes the Gulf Coast special. Take for instance the soft shell crab BLT. Succulent Florida blue crab is battered and fried before it’s nestled in along with crispy bacon and crunchy butter lettuce straight from Sarasota’s Blumenberry Farms, which grows most of Lefty’s produce. The real kicker on the sandwich, however, is the roasted garlic aioli or Lefty’s sauce–whipped up in the kitchen by the maestro Chef Raul Rodriguez–which provides notes of lemon and red pepper that allow the buttery crab to shine.
The stars of the show are the raw oysters, St. James Virginia oysters, wild caught upstream from the Chesapeake Bay, where the salinity produces the desired level of brininess that Quillen and his team desire. The oysters adhere to the simple policy of “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. Straight from the sea, plump and mildly sweet, these delicacies are served chilled on a bed of ice. Pair with a squeeze of lemon for a citrus kick or a dab of horseradish sauce for a hair-raising kick.
For those looking for something a tad more decadent, the pearls and parm appetizer is an indulgent spin on the classic oysters Rockefeller. The same Virginia oysters are broiled with parmesan breadcrumbs, bacon and cayenne pepper for a creamy concoction reminiscent of alfredo sauce.
In the linguine with clams, sweet middleneck clams from Cedar Key burrow into a bed of pasta. Some concoction of linguine with clams is a classic dish, beloved by many, but botched by even more. All too often the dish feels heavy, a sopping mess of garlic and white wine, but not at Lefty’s. Chef Rodriguez is meticulous in his preparation of the dish—after sauteeing the shallots and fresh garlic, the pan is taken off the heat before adding white wine and butter. The result is a rich emulsion that lifts the delicate pasta, accenting the flavors of the clams with fragrant yet subtle notes of butter and garlic instead of overpowering it. Diners beware as the dish has the tendency to disappear quickly.
If the oysters are the Michael Jordan of Lefty’s, then the scallops and grits might very well be the Scottie Pippen of the operation. Fresh sea scallops are harvested from Cape Cod, before being dry packed and shipped down to Sarasota, where Chef Raul gets to work. Pan seared scallops don’t need anything more than the salt Chef seasons them with, the tender white meat dissolving in one’s mouth at first bite. What makes the dish special is what the scallops lay on top. A bed of creamy, cheesy grits is accented by the signature smokiness of Andouille sausage and brought to life with the kick of red pepper. When merged together it creates a symphony that will have seafood doubters questioning their convictions. Chef Raul’s skills as a saucier are on full display with the lobster
bites. Bites of Maine lobster, battered and fried to golden perfection are served alongside the decadent piña tropicale sauce. The sauce, which has pineapple, coconut, honey and sour cream puts a tropical spin on the lobster bites, packing a satisfying crunch and melts in your mouth upon entry. Like all of the ingredients that populate Lefty’s other sauces and cocktails, it is scratch made—what started as buying coconuts to create a coconut puree for cocktails blossomed into the foundation for a bright, sweet and citrusy sauce that is sure to be gone by the end of the meal.
Balancing out the menu is Lefty’s drink list, curated by Katz and company to reflect the marine-based menu. The white-forward wine list features an assortment of blancs, pinot grigios and chardonnays to pair with the seasonal shell and fin fish. Amongst the craft cocktails is the Salty Dog Spritz, a smokey, nectarous take on the Paloma featuring Dobel Humito smoked tequila, salted lime cordial, grapefruit bitters, prosecco and a black salted rim.
“We’re lucky to be in a state that just has an immense amount of different kinds of shellfish, fin fish and vertebrates,” says White of the menu, which is subject to change depending on the season. “It’s fun to try and do some of the things that are off the beaten path, like grouper cheeks or our frog legs or gator tail. We want to create those experiences for people so they can go ‘Wow, I got to try that and I’ve never had it before.’”
THE BIG EASYGOING
Lucky 8 Luncheonette brings the flavors of New Orleans corner cafés to the Hillview District. Andrew Fabian
THERE’S
AN ENVIABLE CLARITY OF VISION AT LUCKY 8 LUNCHEONETTE, THE NEW NEW
ORLEANS-STYLE
CONCEPT IN THE HILLVIEW DISTRICT. The decor: eclectic but cohesive with here and there a reference to something personal. The music: interesting and mysteriously connected. On the television: an idiosyncratic YouTube playlist of consistently obscure videos that must mean a lot to someone. But it all fits together. It all seems to come from the mind of one person. And that mind belongs to Chef Mark Marjorie. Hailing from New Orleans, Marjorie’s kitchen career has seen him cycle through fine dining kitchens before settling into a highly successful run at Veronica’s Fish and Oyster. Now, twenty or so steps north on Osprey Avenue, he gets the chance to deliver the food of his youth to the place he calls home.
Sarasota residents are unlikely to find a more faithful expression of dishes like crawfish etouffee. The crawfish in this dish are sourced from Chef Marjorie’s hometown of Westwego, a suburb of New Orleans on the west bank of the Mississippi River. Its brininess melds well with the butter roux and tomato, all of it fortuitously soaked up by the rice at the bottom of the bowl. This rice should be cherished and devoured.
The chicken sausage gumbo shares a similar flavor profile to the etouffee—thanks to a similar spice and roux potion, sans tomato—but brings just a little heat and an extra layer or two of unctuousness. The heat comes courtesy of pickled banana peppers, while the unctuousness is delivered by the tasty rendered fat of the sausage. This is another rich, savory, hearty bowl of goodness, also served over rice. Lucky diners get a bay leaf in their serving.
Lucky 8’s traditional crispy boudin offers a great deal more complexity than Italian arancini, a close rice-stuffed cousin of crispy boudin. Boudin, however, adds pork, Cajun trinity, chicken liver and other pinches and dashes of flavor before getting the breaded and deep fried treatment. Chef Marjorie adds poblano peppers, which he marinates with the pork, before mincing everything and forming it into balls. The result, served with a ramekin of Crystal hot sauce aioli, has all the youthful joy of a hushpuppy with all the deep culinary history of the Big Easy.
All the handheld menu items are worth repeat visits. Lucky 8’s smashburgers are quintessential, hearkening back to the days when a drive-thru burger was actual beef and bread, not synthetic, vacuum-
sealed astronaut food. The sesame seeds on these buns fight for space, the beef patty (or patties) are seared just right, the cheese and toppings all contribute to that synergy of burger parts that form the burger’s soul. A picture of this burger belongs in a burger textbook or instruction manual.
The muffaletta—a New Orleans invention out of Central Grocery Co.—is a sight to behold. It’s stacked impossibly thick with ham, genoa salami, mortadella and provolone, smothered with an olive salad and giardiniera blend, then toasted between two thick slices of Sicilian bread. It soaks through the deli paper that lines every tray at Lucky 8. More importantly, it’s about as filling of a sandwich as can pass through the fully open jaw of the average adult. If trying it for the first time, split it with at least one other person. Then don bibs and gloves.
Leave the bib on for the Creole crispy chicken sandwich. Served on the same sesame seed bun as the smashburgers, the inventive twist on this sandwich is the collard greens, which are cooked along with rutabaga, smoked paprika and watermelon radish. It’s altogether savory, vegetal, slightly bitter and unexpected, adding a bit of flair to what is, at heart, a fried chicken sandwich. If the bread, chicken, collard greens and swiss cheese don’t all hit near the edges of the sandwich, bite deeper. It’s there and it’s worth getting sandwich on your face. And not to say that a visit to a New Orleans-style restaurant has to include the excesses associated with its March festivities, but Lucky 8 does serve draft beer by the liter. From the mind of Chef Marjorie to your gut. SRQ
A CULINARY JOURNEY
After cooking all over the county, Chef Ryan Ward has found a home at EVOQ in Sarasota. Kate Wight
Below, left to right: The grilled lobster tail blends Ward’s Maine roots with Cajun flavors. Flavorful smoked duck flatbread is elevated comfort food at its finest. EVOQ Sarasota, 100 Marina View Drive, Sarasota, 941-260-8255, www.evoqsarasota.
FOR SOME PEOPLE, GROWING UP IN THE FAMILY BUSINESS MEANS STAYING IN ONE PLACE. In the case of Ryan Ward, executive chef at EVOQ Sarasota, it would send him on a culinary adventure throughout the United States. “I’m originally from Maine, way up near the mountains, not on the coast,” Ward says. “When everyone thinks of Maine you think of lobster and fresh fish and all of that. But I was more up near Canada, so there’s not much seafood where I’m from.” Ward’s family owned restaurants and being a hard worker was ingrained into him at an early age. He started cooking young, making pizzas, sandwiches and breakfast food. From there, he went to the New England Culinary Institute where he graduated with distinction in the Bachelor program. After graduating, Ward started his culinary career with Hyatt where he had the opportunity to work as a chef at hotels in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania and Texas before ultimately landing in Sarasota where he has been ever since. “I really fell in love with the whole city,” he says simply. Ward departed Hyatt and helped open the Sunseeker Resort in Port Charlotte where he was responsible for seventeen kitchens. In October 2024, he joined the team at EVOQ Sarasota, a restaurant at The Westin Hotel that is also open to the public. In his role as executive chef, he has designed a fresh and modern new menu that blends the vibrant spirit of Gulf Coast cuisine with the classic American fare Ward is so familiar with from his travels. “The food at EVOQ is kind of American, but it’s also kind of Florida. It takes pieces from all over,” says Ward. “So I’ll have a Gulf Coast seafood chowder that’s really inspired by New England clam chowder, but I’ve updated it by using chorizo instead of bacon.” While Ward embraces his roots and values all the culinary knowledge he’s gained over the years, he has wholeheartedly embraced Gulf Coast flavors
flavors and ingredients. “My cuisine has changed from heavy, earthy kind of flavors to more vibrant seafood with the incorporation of citrus and different fruit flavors as well,” he says. “That led to dishes like our sugar cane skewered shrimp served with an orange chili glaze and a peanut slaw and topped with micro cilantro. There are a lot of different flavors going on with that dish but they all work very well together.” Even the simpler fare at EVOQ is elevated and executed to perfection, like the flatbreads that Ward has added to the menu. The dough is made in-house and the finished flatbreads are presented on wooden plank boards. If you’re looking for something a little more traditional. The old-world pepperoni flatbread has a classic red sauce, provolone, mozzarella and parmesan and is topped with big chunks of high-quality pepperoni. Feeling fancy? The sweet and savory smoked duck flatbread is an explosion of flavor thanks to citrus barbecue sauce, white cheddar, mandarin orange and micro cilantro. If you have a light appetite, EVOQ also offers an Eat Well menu with some lighter items and some items that are still decadent but available in half portions. It’s just another example of how thoughtfully designed the menu is for all patrons. This philosophy extends to the ingredients, too. Ward and his team actively seek out trusted suppliers to bring in as many ethical, organic and sustainable products as possible. Ward plans to change out the dinner menu at least twice a year. The fall/winter menu and spring/summer menu will be inspired by what’s seasonal and available. Ward will also be revamping the breakfast menu at EVOQ, so keep an eye out on the restaurant’s website for details. SRQ
Below, left to right: Ward’s sugar-cane skewered shrimp dish showcases his appreciation for Gulf Coast flavors and ingredients. Items off the Eat Well menu are so delicious, you won’t feel like you’re missing out on decadence.
HIDDEN GEMS In Philanthropy
It’s no secret that Sarasota is a philanthropic community with many organizations and individuals involved in charitable giving. Our philanthropy partners, however, often offer a wealth of services that extend far beyond traditional grantmaking and many of these hidden gems remain under the radar for most people. The nonprofit groups covered in this feature are working to create more meaningful, long-lasting change in our region.
WRITTEN BY BARBIE HEIT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY WES ROBERTS + THE NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
This spread, left to right: Dogs Inc’s Skilled Companion Dog Program provides support to children; The Academy at Glengary offers vacational activities in culinary and hospitality fields; Harvest House works with various organization to alleviate hunger in our community.
“We get many referrals from the police, often finding women living in their cars with their children, struggling to make ends meet. They come to us, and we provide them with therapy and wraparound services, including free childcare and scholarships for education, as long as they stay sober.”
Harvest House
—Katie McCurry, Vice President of Advancement, Harvest House
“HARVEST HOUSE IS A PLACE TO REBUILD. We meet people where they are, straight from incarceration or homelessness, and surround them with support,” shares Vice President of Advancement Harvest House, Katie McCurry. “We give them the tools and steps to get back into society with confidence.” Founded in 1992 by Pastors Jim and Peggy Minor, fueled by their deep awareness of a critical need for support in their community, Harvest House started with just six beds. Over the years, the organization has grown exponentially, expanding to ten campuses and providing hope, care and transformation to thousands. The dedicated team of professionals at Harvest House is driven by compassion and the belief that everyone deserves a chance at a better future.
While many people are familiar with Harvest House’s work in alleviating hunger (they work closely with All Faiths Food Bank) and offering affordable housing, fewer are aware of the organization’s vital addiction recovery program. This program has been instrumental in helping individuals rebuild their lives and break the cycle of addiction. In fact, the addiction recovery initiative is where the organization’s journey began over 30 years ago.
“Our Freedom Program is a model between a halfway house and a traditional treatment program,” explains McCurry. “We provide case workers and have wraparound services such as mental health counseling, addiction education classes and financial literacy. We also offer several other classes tailored to the needs of each individual.” These services aim to address the complex issues that people face, giving them the support they need to reintegrate into society with confidence. The program can last up to six months, after which participants move into graduate housing, where they can stay for as long as necessary to continue their journey to stability. “It’s gradual—sometimes
people need that extra hand at every level to find the stability to make it out in the world,” McCurry adds.
One of the most significant programs that Harvest House offers is called Home Again, a supportive housing solution that spans across three campuses. This program serves 108 parents and children on any given night, providing families with access to affordable housing while also offering critical social services. Home Again offers a lifeline to participants who are required to refrain from drug and alcohol use while in the program. They also participate in lifeskills classes that prepare them for a brighter future.
“It’s only for families, and it often involves individuals escaping abuse or challenging circumstances,” shares McCurry. “We get many referrals from the police, often finding women living in their cars with their children, struggling to make ends meet. They come to us, and we provide them with therapy and wraparound services, including free childcare and scholarships for education, as long as they stay sober.” This comprehensive approach not only helps families overcome immediate crises but also sets them on a path toward lasting stability and self-sufficiency.
The impact of Harvest House’s programs is profound. “Over 90% of our recovery clients move into stable housing when they leave us, and a year later, the majority are still housed and thriving,” McCurry proudly shares. “Those aren’t just numbers to us. It’s lives that are changed and families who are reunited.” This success is a testament to the unwavering commitment of Harvest House to restore hope and provide a future for those who need it most. Through its addiction recovery services, affordable housing solutions and holistic approach to support, Harvest House continues to be a beacon of hope, helping individuals and families rebuild their lives and regain their independence.
Above: Katie McCurry, McCurry, Vice President of Advancement, Harvest House.
This spread, clockwise: The Skilled Companion Dog Program provides security and comfort to young people living with vision loss..
Dogs Inc.
DOGS INC. IS A TRUSTED PROVIDER OF GUIDE AND SERVICE DOGS FOR PEOPLE WITH VISION LOSS AND VETERANS IN OUR REGION. However, most people don’t think of children as being born with vision loss, those who face unexpected diagnoses later in life, or those who experience lifechanging accidents that result in visual impairment. Unfortunately, these incidents do happen. Dogs Inc. has responded to these needs by creating the Skilled Companion Dog Program. This program places specially trained dogs into the lives of children, offering companionship and support as they navigate the challenges of vision loss.
Partnering with a guide dog requires commitment and responsibility, and for children, there is much to learn. The Skilled Companion Dog Program provides dogs that serve as loyal companions and teachers, helping kids build confidence as they learn to care for their furry friend. Through tasks such as feeding, grooming, walking and playing, children develop a sense of responsibility and maturity—important lessons that prepare them for the possibility of one day working with a guide dog of their own.
Madison, a 12-year-old girl living with ocular albinism, a rare genetic disorder affecting the pigmentation of the eyes, is one of the children benefiting from the program. Her mother, Florence, is excited about the positive impact Carol, a skilled companion dog, has had on her daughter’s life. “Madison was the baby of the family, but now, Carol is,” Florence explains. “Her calmness helps keep Madison calm. She also gives Madison responsibility and an awareness beyond herself and her own needs.”
Each skilled companion dog is carefully selected and matched to ensure the right fit for both the dog and the child’s personality. These dogs are healthy, well-trained and socialized, beginning their training just days after birth. Over nearly two years, they master essential commands like sit, stay, come, down, place and leave it. They also learn to walk with children
“We want to prepare Camden for the future, so at the appropriate time, if he has the interest and ability necessary, he can have a guide dog of his own.”
—Camden’s dad Austin on Camden and his companion dog Zinger.
using a tandem leash, allowing the children to walk independently while being guided or supervised by a parent or guardian. Their gentle nature and tolerance for handling ensure they’re well-suited for children with vision loss. Currently, over 50 Dogs Inc. skilled companion dogs are matched with children across the country, offering unwavering support as they navigate life with visual impairment.
Jace, who lost his sight in a sledding accident at five years old, is another child benefiting from a skilled companion dog. His mom, Carmen, shares how Bentley has made a big difference. “Jace is no longer scared that something else will happen to him. Since we welcomed Bentley, that all changed. Her energy completely matches Jace’s personality; she’s just what we needed.”
For Becca, a 12-year-old girl who lost her sight at age eight due to Turner syndrome, having a companion dog has transformed her life. “With Rockwell, I am not as scared as I once was,” she says. “Now I enjoy living my life with my blindness. If I had one wish, it would be for me and Rockwell to be together forever. He has been such a blessing and has helped me in so many ways.”
Camden, who lost his vision after a brain tumor pressed on his optic nerve, is also part of the program. His dad, Austin, explains their hopes for Camden’s future: “We want to prepare Camden for the future, so at the appropriate time, if he has the interest and ability necessary, he can have a guide dog of his own.”
For now, Camden’s companion dog, Zinger, provides comfort and support as he navigates life with vision loss.
To learn more visit dogsinc.org
Mission Cataract
This spread, clockwise: Dr. Shoemaker and his team allow patients to regain their vision participate fully in life once again. Bridge to Life’s Mary Kay with (left to right) Jacson, 11, Marcel, 14, Harper, 5, Charlotte, 8 and Danny, 15.
FOR THE SURGEONS AND STAFF MEMBERS AT CENTER FOR SIGHT, the mission of “Bringing Clear Vision to Life” is at the heart of everything they do. Working tirelessly to provide not only exceptional eye care but also to foster meaningful relationships with their patients, they help people lead more enjoyable lives. As part of this mission, every year, the center hosts Mission Cataract, a special event where skilled surgeons offer free cataract surgeries to individuals without health insurance or the financial means to pay for the procedure. David W. Shoemaker, M.D., laser Cataract surgeon, founder and director of Cataract & Lens Replacement Surgery at Center For Sight felt that no one should succumb to a life of blindness due to a treatable condition. That’s why he established Center For Sight as a Mission Cataract partner over 30 years ago. For three decades, Center For Sight has performed thousands of free cataract surgeries. The surgeries are performed for people living in Southwest Florida and across the nation. Recently, Center For Sight partnered with the ASCRS Foundation and Operation Sight to expand their reach and provide this sight-saving service to even more individuals in need.
To ensure ongoing funding for Mission Cataract, Dr. Shoemaker established the Center For Sight Foundation in 2012, a donor-advised fund maintained by the Gulf Coast Community Foundation. The Foundation’s primary initiative is to support Mission Cataract. The mission of the Center For Sight Foundation is to see beyond the financial circumstances of those in need and to deliver sight-saving surgery so that no one suffers visual loss due to a surgically treatable condition. Cataracts, a common part of the aging process, develop slowly over time, clouding the lens of the eye and leading to diminished vision, including loss of color perception and difficulty reading or driving at night. Surgery involves removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens, restoring patients’ ability to see clearly and regain the vision they once had.
“Mission Cataract is our way of catching the people who would otherwise fall through the cracks of the healthcare system,” says Dr. Shoemaker. “It is as rewarding to all of us at Center For Sight as it is for the thousands of patients who have had their sight, and their lives restored. It is a privilege to be able to provide this care to those in need.”
One patient, Jamori Fox, a 26-year-old from Canton, GA, traveled to Sarasota for surgery after debilitating cataracts left him unable to continue his job as a driver. “I’m trying not to get emotional, but I truly appreciate what you’re doing for people who don’t have the income,” Fox says. “The world is hard out here. I’m grateful for what you do for those less fortunate.” His heartfelt gratitude speaks to the powerful impact of Mission Cataract, which gives people like Jamori a chance at a brighter future.
For Heather Gordan, a 55-year-old server who has been struggling with vision loss, the inability to read due to her cataracts had been a constant source of frustration. “I am a server and don’t have insurance. It’s been tough. This place has been a blessing,” Heather shares. Her story reflects how Mission Cataract provides more than just vision—it offers a way back to cherished hobbies and a better quality of life. Now, with her vision restored, Heather looks forward to reading once again, catching up on the time she had lost. Similarly, Cheryl Von Deck, a 64-yearold caregiver, shares how her vision loss affected not just her, but the loved ones she cares for. “I am a caregiver for someone who cannot drive. I can’t drive either, and we’ve had to miss appointments. I can’t wait to see again. I am so excited,” she says. Cheryl’s story highlights the ripple effect of cataracts, where vision loss can impact entire families. But through Mission Cataract, she now has the hope of regaining her independence—and with it, the ability to care for others more effectively. Each year, through Mission Cataract, the Center for Sight demonstrates its unwavering commitment to improving lives through exceptional care. They truly bring clear vision—and hope—into the lives of their patients.
For more information on Mission Cataract, visit gulfcoastcf.org/center-sight-foundation
“Mission Cataract is our way of catching the people who would otherwise fall through the cracks of the healthcare system.”
—Dr. David W. Shoemaker, M.D. Center for Sight
Bridge A Life
BRIDGE A LIFE BELIEVES THAT WHILE NOT EVERYONE IS CALLED TO BE A FOSTER OR ADOPTIVE PARENT, everyone can support children from hard places. Founded by Danny and Ann Marie Jones, who began their own foster care journey years ago, the organization provides hope and support to vulnerable children and families. Danny and Ann Marie shared their experience with others, highlighting the need for safe homes for kids. Their efforts sparked interest, leading many to become foster or adoptive parents. With the support of the Manatee County Foundation, Bridge A Life has grown, benefiting from training and resources provided by nonprofit leaders in our region. Executive Director Jody Jester, the organization’s first staff hire, appreciates the strong community connections with churches, businesses and other nonprofits. “We still offer many of the same programs that Danny and Ann Marie did years ago, including meal delivery, home improvement projects and trauma-informed training,” says Jester. “Trauma-informed training programs are crucial because childhood trauma can significantly affect a child’s development, behavior and relationships and caregivers need specialized training to address the challenges that arise from trauma.”
Bridge A Life supports children from birth to age 18 and beyond, extending help to youth aging out of the foster care system. “The children Danny and Ann Marie worked with are now teenagers and young adults,” Jester explains. “As these youth transition, our support can continue beyond 18.” Jester, a foster parent and adopter herself, emphasizes that not everyone is called to foster or adopt, but everyone can contribute in some way. Whether it’s delivering a meal, helping with home repairs, offering childcare or assisting with training events, there are many ways to get involved. The organization’s website lists various volunteer opportunities, encouraging people to help in creative and meaningful ways.
One of the key events Bridge A Life hosts is the Superhero 5K, a foster care awareness race at Nathan Benderson Park. The race features a visual display of every child currently in foster care, with their names written in colorful chalk along the start/finish line. Participants run in honor of a specific child, and many foster and adoptive families participate. At the event, one family shared a heartwarming moment: two foster children marked through their names on the track, as their adoption was finalized the following week. Another poignant story was of a mother who attended the race, having worked hard to reunify with her children. Her story symbolizes the success of reunification efforts, which Bridge A Life celebrates just as much as adoption. “It was such a gift to see both successful reunifications and adoptions at the same event,” Jester reflects. “It shows the full range of support we provide, and it’s powerful to witness these stories of hope and healing.” To learn more visit:.bridgealife.com
“We’re one of the few companies that pushes to do all types of programming: film, theater, pop-up workshop, while contributing to the broader community.”
— Katherine Michelle Tanner, Tree Fort Productions
Tree Fort Productions
TREE FORT PRODUCTIONS IS A PLACE WHERE PEOPLE OF ALL AGES can explore the performing arts in a safe, supportive environment. Founded by Katherine Michelle Tanner, this 501(c) (3) organization is a welcoming space for aspiring artists in Sarasota, Manatee County and beyond. But Tree Fort’s mission goes beyond just theater. In addition to its studio training program—offering classes in acting, singing, dancing, film and even fitness—the organization offers a wide array of unique programs. From sound baths to music therapy, Tree Fort fosters creativity and healing in its students.
One of their standout initiatives is their summer camps, which blend both typical and neurodiverse children in an inclusive environment. These camps are open to all youth, creating a special space where all children can explore the arts. “We want to offer these experiences to everyone, no matter their background,” says Tanner. Tree Fort’s commitment to helping underprivileged youth can also be seen in its scholarship programs, which provide financial assistance for students between high school and college. “There’s a gap that many students fall into between high school and college, and we want to help bridge that gap,” Tanner says. As Tree Fort grows, so does its reach. With programs for youth, teens, adults and seniors, the company is dedicated to serving all generations. They collaborate with eight local nonprofits, including Resilient Retreat and Parkinson Place, creating programs that go beyond performance and tap into healing, wellness and community support.
The performing arts programming at Tree Fort focuses on classic, original and modern works. “We’re one of the few companies that pushes to do all types of programming—film, theater, pop-up workshops—while contributing to the broader community,” explains Tanner, noting that she strives to perform four adult mainstage shows each season, as well as two original kids’ productions. “We focus on writing for children in a way that allows every kid to grow. Instead of just having one lead character in a show, we create stories where every child has a chance to shine at their own level.”
Two and a half years ago, when Tree Fort first became a nonprofit, Tanner sought ways to connect with the community. “We wanted to find support systems,” she said, “and the Community Foundation of Sarasota County was introduced to us at one of our very first performances. Since then, we’ve had the pleasure of continuing to work with them and other donors, which has been invaluable.” Still, Tree Fort relies on support from the community. Donations can be made directly on the website by clicking the “Become a Donor” tab. “We also have quite a few capacities for volunteering and it’s always growing,” adds Tanner. “There are summer types of opportunities for our Summer Sizzler series and also for our main stage which usually hovers between September and the end of March. We always need help with costumes, building sets and phone calls—and as a volunteer, of course, one of the perks is getting to see our great shows.” To learn more visit treefortproductions.com
Above: Members who enter the workforce and begin building a mainstream life represent the success that McKeever and his team work to achieve at The Academy at Glengary.
“We
didn’t want to create just a safe space; we aimed to build a place with high expectations and real opportunities for members to engage in educational, vocational or social goals.”
—William McKeever, Director, The Academy at Glengary
The Academy at Glengary
THE
ACADEMY AT
GLENGARY IS A VIBRANT COMMUNITY DEDICATED TO HELPING INDIVIDUALS DEVELOP
SKILLS, build friendships, prioritize wellness and explore employment opportunities, all while working toward personal dreams and goals. Director William McKeever, who has been with the organization since its inception in 2015, previously worked in rehabilitation counseling for people with disabilities. When the Academy was founded, 23 community leaders, including Sheriff Knight and Public Defender Larry Eger, joined forces to create a service designed to complement clinical care for mental health, providing an opportunity for individuals to learn new skills and reintegrate into society. The service targets people ages 18 and up with conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression and PTSD, offering additional support without replacing their clinical treatment. The Academy opened its doors in 2017, offering vocational activities and a space for individuals to develop personal goals related to mental health and wellness. Members typically attend four hours a day, two to three days a week, though some engage in full-time participation. The Academy offers three main vocational areas: culinary and hospitality (operating like a small restaurant), arts and communications (handling newsletters and multimedia projects), and business and technology. McKeever emphasizes the intentionality behind the Academy’s approach. “We didn’t want to create just a safe space; we aimed to build a place with high expectations and real opportunities for members to engage in educational, vocational or social goals,” he says. The Academy fosters a community where members can set self-directed goals and choose their level of participation. The national unemployment rate for people with serious mental illness is 85-90%, and many are diagnosed in their late teens or early 20s, resulting in prolonged disengagement from mainstream society. McKeever views the Academy as a stepping stone to reintegrating into society. Many members hope to enter the workforce within one to two years, and the Academy partners with local employers to help place members in full- and part-time jobs. “It’s exciting when our members reenter the workforce and begin building a mainstream life,” he says. In addition to vocational training, the Academy offers support in physical wellness, nutrition and financial wellness. Members do not pay for services but are encouraged to contribute financially if possible. A significant portion of funding comes from the state of Florida, with additional support from foundations, individuals and corporations. The Academy also opened a new location, the Academy of Bradenton, in April 2024, funded in part by Manatee County.
To learn more, visit academysrq.org.
Holiday House SRQ
HOLIDAY HOUSE SRQ IS A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION dedicated to creating memorable holiday experiences for children in Title 1 Schools. Many of these children lack the opportunity to enjoy typical holiday traditions, so the organization transforms classrooms into winter wonderlands, allowing students to shop for gifts for their loved ones at no cost. In 2024, Holiday House SRQ served 2,000 children across four schools: Alta Vista, Brentwood, Emma E. Booker and Wilkinson Elementary. In addition to holiday gifts, the organization provides essential resources such as new sneakers and other essential items. Founded in 2021 by Jenny Infanti and Sepi Ackerman, Holiday House SRQ began with a successful event at Emma E. Booker Elementary and has since expanded to serve more schools. By fostering a sense of giving, compassion and community, Holiday House SRQ ensures every child experiences the joy of the season, regardless of their background. “After we held our first event at Booker, which was a huge success, we started learning more about the Title 1 schools,” shares Infanti. “I don’t think either of us fully appreciated exactly how much they are lacking in resources and how many of them there are. Thirteen of our traditional 24 elementary schools in Sarasota County qualify, so if you do the math, that means way more than half of the kids in elementary school are living at or below the poverty line.” Once a year, Infanti and Ackerman create a holiday house at each school they serve. “It happens to be pretty magical,” says Infanti. “We take a classroom or a space inside of a school and we transform it into a winter wonderland. We have Christmas lights, there’s music, there’s inflatables, there’s decor—all to make it feel not like you’re at school, you’re kind of walking into Santa’s workshop. Within the holiday shop, there are tables set up and each student identifies five people in their life that they want to shop for.”
“This is one of the rare and few opportunities that the kids will probably experience that gives them empowerment. It really makes them feel like they’re the ones that are in control and in charge and they’re the ones picking the gifts,” adds Ackerman. While most of the magic occurs during the holiday season, Ackerman notes that it involves 365 days of preparation. “Holiday House is just the gateway to really understanding deeper needs. I think the school board has realized that we’ve established a connection and we’ve built trust. They come to us when there’s a need—they know we’ll do our best to help.” Holiday House recently held a shoe drive at Alta Vista, providing free sneakers to every student. “One of the kids showed up with no sneakers on his feet, so this is an actual need,” says Ackerman. The organization relies on over 200 volunteers to support events like these throughout the year. In addition to the volunteers and support from organizations like the Junior League and Community Foundation of Sarasota County, Infanti and Ackerman are grateful for the involvement of their own children who actually serve on their Board. “The kids we serve really identify when they see another child. It’s just instant comfort,” says Ackerman. “As for our children, I think it gives them not only a real sense of what’s happening in our community but it makes them grateful. We want them to feel a sense of ownership of it too so that as they grow and mature, they understand the importance of giving back to their community.” To learn more visit holidayhousesrq.org
“Holiday House is just the gateway to really understanding deeper needs. I think the school board has realized that we’ve established a connection and we’ve built trust.” —Sepi Ackerman, Holiday House SRQ
SYC Cares
WHEN PEOPLE THINK OF THE HISTORIC YET MODERN SARASOTA YACHT CLUB (SYC) located inside Big Pass on the Gulf, they probably think about sailing, not philanthropy. SYC Cares, the philanthropic arm of the Sarasota Yacht Club has been around since 2017 and works with a mission to support the community through donations, service and projects. Part of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, SYC Cares provides grants to local nonprofits such as Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties, Child Protection Center, Pines of Sarasota, JFCS and All Faiths Food Bank.
“In 2017, the board of directors developed their first strategic plan, which included seven goals, one of which was to position the club as a positive community member. Recognizing that some may not view a yacht club this way, we adopted the mantra Making Membership Matter by Connecting Club and Community. We formed a committee to bring this vision to life,” explains Philanthropy and Special Projects Director of SYC, Stephania Feltz. “We partnered with the Community Foundation of Sarasota County and identified key priorities for our members.”
SYC Cares is made up of all types of members—from former rock stars to Fortune 500 CEOs—and most have taken up the mantra of connecting with the community, bringing their passions with them from their various specialties. Since its inception, the organization has grown to become a 501c3 corporation and has recently donated its millionth dollar in Feltz’s history.
“When you get to a place like this and you’re enjoying such an incredible quality of life, I think people feel an obligation to give back to their community,” says the immediate past Chair and current President of the Foundation, Roy Grossman. The range of causes supported is wide, spanning from animal welfare and children’s well-being to environmental issues. However, the past two years have seen a notable emphasis on youth mental health. Recent grant recipients include organizations such as The Florida Center for Early Childhood, Children First, SPARCC, The Payton Wright Foundation, Project 180 and Teen Court of Sarasota. “We have a voting process with two categories for support,” explains Grossman. “One focuses on mental health, while the other allows members to nominate any cause they feel passionate about, provided it passes our thorough vetting process.” Last year, the youth groups built a life-size playhouse, which was donated to Harvest House for homeless families. “From stuffing backpacks for needy children to cooking and personally delivering meals to homes to helping pets of families in need,” says Feltz, “The members of SYC Cares are teaching the next generation the value of philanthropy.” To learn more visit sarasotayachtclub.org
This spread, clockwise: Jenny Infanti and Sepi Ackerman of Holiday House; students enjoy the excitement of a holiday house, (l-r) Don Ellis, Stephania Feltz and Roy Grossman of SYC Cares.
180 Skate
FOUNDED IN 2013 BY SARASOTA NATIVE TIM STORCK, 180 SKATE IS A 501(C)(3) NON-PROFIT, FAITH-BASED ORGANIZATION dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive space for kids to connect, skate and grow. The inspiration for 180 Skate came when Storck, serving as youth director at First Baptist Church, noticed kids skating by the church. Seizing the opportunity to engage with them, he set up a few ramps in the church parking lot and invited them to skate and stay for youth group. As more kids showed up, Storck expanded the vision and built a small indoor skatepark above the church gym.
Today, Storck works tirelessly to connect with local youth through a variety of programs, including skate trips, contests and skate camps. His mission is clear: to offer a positive, welcoming environment where kids from all backgrounds can skate, learn and thrive. In addition to skateboarding events, the organization hosts after-school programs, summer camps, girls’ meet-ups and various community outreach initiatives.
Professional skateboarder Jake Illardi—someone who Storck has known for years—often volunteers at the camps, offering lessons and mentorship when he’s in town. Gymnast Olivia Torres leads the girls’ division, bringing her expertise to afterschool programs and summer camps. Storck says, “Whenever there’s a school break, we run camps for kids as young as four up to 13 years old. Many of those campers continue to stay on after age 13 by volunteering and mentoring the younger kids.”
With a strong belief in giving back, 180 Skate relies on donations to fund its programs. In turn, they support organizations like One More Child, Guardian Angels and Suncoast Remake Learning Days, running skate-based activities at community festivals and events. Storck remembers the excitement when the local community learned that Jake Illardi had competed in the Olympics. “Everyone at the church had watched Jake grow up, so seeing him achieve something incredible like that was very uplifting for the whole community,” he says. “We often hear from parents who didn’t realize the impact skateboarding would have on their kids—it’s been transformative for so many people.”
Through skateboarding, Storck has built a bridge to reach young people who might otherwise be overlooked. “I frequently get kids who want to volunteer, and their parents will say things like, ‘He was on drugs, he’s had struggles,’ but I tell them, ‘It’s okay, we’ll work through it together.’” 180 Skate continues to provide opportunities for kids to grow, learn and skate. To help fund these efforts, donations are always appreciated, and a link is available on their website to support the purchase of new equipment, protective gear and continued community outreach. To learn more visit 180skate.org
Above: Tim Storck and skater, Kale of 180 Skate.
Right: FUNducation
Executive Director Neirda Thompson-Pemberton engaging with a program.
“We often hear from parents who didn’t realize the impact skateboarding would have on their kids; it’s been transformative for so many people.”
FUNducation
—Tim Storck, 180 Skate
FUNDUCATION IS A 501(C)(3) NONPROFIT DEDICATED TO INSPIRING AND EMPOWERING THE NEXT GENERATION OF INNOVATORS through education in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). The organization achieves this by offering hands-on programs that introduce young people to various STEAM career possibilities, giving those who are uncertain about their future careers the chance to explore and engage with different STEAM fields. With a range of engaging programs, they are making a big difference for future engineers, coders and scientists—especially for kids from underrepresented groups.
Executive Director, Neirda Thompson-Pemberton, says that while other programs may focus on STEM learning, FUNducation includes the A for arts. “As one of my mentors used to say, ‘Nobody wants an ugly toaster. You want a toaster that works but also fits with the kitchen motif’ so we do include arts,” she explains. “We want to expose and engage our kids and hopefully inspire them to go into STEAM fields when they grow up because we are falling behind as a nation. We’re graduating fewer and fewer engineers, mathematicians and scientists. For me, those careers are the backbone of innovation but unfortunately, our kids are afraid of them because of the math and science aspect. So with FUNducation we are putting the fun in education, where we find more engaging ways to learn. We call it educational espionage—the kids are having so much fun they don’t realize that we’ve just taught them something.”
Thompson-Pemberton started her career in civil engineering immediately after grad school. She also volunteered, during that time, in outreach programs working with children. During these sessions, she would often ask the kids if they knew what an engineer was. Nobody was ever able to answer. Surprised by this, she took the time to explain, sparking their interest—at least until they learned about the math and science involved. “That’s when you lose the room,” she says. “And that’s when the passion inside me started. I knew I had to find a way to connect with these kids.” FUNducation, which started in 2019, offers HADO Events (active eSports that use augmented reality tech and motion sensors), Lego League, Digital Literacy and many other events throughout the year to children ranging from elementary school up to high school. They also have project-based internships and volunteer opportunities for college students. And what began as a passion project for Thompson-Pemberton has now evolved into a nonprofit organization that continues to grow each year, reaching and impacting more children. “Our board includes volunteers such as a retired electrical engineer and a statistician from the University of Tampa. We’ve been very intentional about ensuring our board represents the mission we’re striving to achieve,” she explains. “We partner with schools, community organizations, and families. We have programs in schools and collaborate with the Department of Juvenile Justice.”
The organization is 50 to 55% grant-funded and the Manatee Community Foundation (MCF) has been a supporter from the beginning. “When someone says STEM or Steam, MCF is kind enough to steer them toward our group. We’ve gotten some donors that way, too, which has been amazing,” adds ThompsonPemberton. While the organization serves all children, Thompson-Pemberton, a black, female, Haitian-American engineer, emphasizes the need to inspire underserved communities, especially girls and children of color. “I call myself a ‘chocolate unicorn’ because it’s rare to see my combination in engineering,” she says. “Sadly, we’re still seeing girls walk out of rooms dominated by boys. It’s 2025, and we’re still dealing with that. While we target all kids to build a skilled workforce, we focus on creating a more diverse pipeline, especially for underserved communities.” To learn more visit:funducation.org SRQ
LIFELONG LEARNERS
Suncoast Remake Learning Days Celebrates Hands-on-Learning
THE SUNCOAST CAMPAIGN FOR GRADE-LEVEL READING (SCGLR) HAS ONCE AGAIN BROUGHT REMAKE LEARNING DAYS to Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota counties. This collaborative festival, which celebrates hands-on learning for youth, families, grandparents, caregivers and educators, first launched locally in 2022 with 150 free events spread across four counties. By 2024, the festival expanded to 15 days and featured a total of 304 events hosted by 277 local organizations. This year’s festival, running from April 19 to May 3, reached new heights with a record-setting 380+ events. Suncoast Remake Learning Days are organized around a variety of learning themes, including the arts, maker spaces, outdoor exploration, science, technology and youth voice. Designed for audiences ranging from young children to high school seniors, these dynamic, multi-generational experiences are free, accessible and open to the public—thanks to the generous support of The Patterson Foundation. WRITTEN BY BARBIE HEIT
Beth Duda has served as the director of SCGLR, working with the Patterson Foundation for the past ten years. Prior to joining SCGLR, she spent many years as the education director at Florida Studio Theater. “At FST, I was involved in the Write-aPlay program, where we worked with hundreds of classrooms each year—many of which were assetlimited—helping children express their thoughts and emotions through writing,” she shares. “That experience deepened my dedication to supporting children and underserved families.” She notes that transitioning to The Patterson Foundation was a natural fit because they saw an opportunity to clarify and advance the national campaign for grade-level reading in the region–bringing community partners together to advance the goal of all children reading on grade level by the end of third grade.
In 2016, Remake Learning Days launched in southwestern Pennsylvania. Since then, it has taken root in communities across the United States, New Zealand, Uruguay and the United Kingdom. The national campaign focuses on five pillars: school readiness (0-5 years), summer learning, family engagement, developmental health and attendance. When Duda and The Foundation first became involved, Manatee County was concentrating on attendance, and Sarasota County on all five pillars in three Title I schools. The Patterson Foundation proposed acting as a regional accelerator, supporting
all five pillars across both counties while letting local organizations maintain their specific initiatives. “This led to my role,” she says, “where we work to foster widespread participation and shared goals for children and families.” Over the years, the initiative has expanded to the four counties— Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota—while still maintaining each county’s specific efforts.
The festival provides a chance for children, parents and caregivers to learn together. Research from National Remake Learning Days shows that both children and adults enjoy learning more when it’s a shared experience with family and loved ones. Additionally, they remember the content better when they learn together. The festival also allows community partners to enhance their family engagement efforts and build connections with other organizations, including businesses, arts groups, museums, libraries, schools, colleges, universities, faith-based groups, out-of-school programs and child-care centers.
“With 150 events throughout our four counties and just over 10,000 people in attendance in our first year, it was certainly strong enough out of the gate for us to commit to doing it again,” says Duda. “By 2024 we had an attendance of 36,500 people which is amazing. This year, we have many agencies partnering together, some of them putting forth one event and several that put forth multiple events, so it’s great to be fostering that widespread community participation.”
Opposite page: ight: Beth Duda prepares for the 2025 event. The activities at Suncoast Remake Learning Days allow children and their families can explore creative, hands-on and fun ways of learning such as the Beyond Gaming program.
Every event that is approved and accepted to the festival is free and open to the public. The Patterson Foundation supports events that are geared to at least 30 people with a cap on support at $2,000 per event for events that are geared toward 100 people or more. “We look at our funding as being catalytic funding for the event. It certainly in some cases covers all the expenses for the event, but some organizations do participate,” says Duda. “For example, the big truck event that is held in South County Sarasota considers themselves part of the remake learning day family and they attracted more than 5,000 people to their event last year.”
The whole focus of the festival is to share the joy of learning, explains Duda, stressing the importance of becoming lifelong learners. “In some of the events for older students, there is a focus on science or technology and those are skills that many parents have an interest in, too. “There’s an opportunity to both fly drones and have a race with the drones, learn how to make an electronic gift or greeting card with just simple electric circuits, but when you open the card, the light comes on–so, those kinds of very cool things attract the parent and the child.”
With hundreds of organizations involved, Duda is hesitant to single out just a few by name, but notes they are partnering with many schools and afterschool programs. All events must occur outside regular school hours. “This isn’t about field trips for students; it’s about family and parent engagement,” she emphasizes. Schools, afterschool programs, churches, synagogues and government agencies are all contributing. Some events are small, like the Gulf Gate Library’s acrylic pouring lesson, where children and families learn this art form in a safe, intimate setting. Other events target larger audiences. The festival strengthens the local learning ecosystem by fostering partnerships between organizations that didn’t know each other before. Some have
cross-promoted their events in DeSoto County, even creating what’s called the “magic school bus.”
The DeSoto County Historical Society uses the bus, which stops at various Remake Learning Days events, offering hands-on activities that teach local history. “So, not only are they having their own event on the bus, but they’re spreading joy through the community,” she adds. “We’ve had a similar thing happen between the Faulhaber Fab Lab and Wilkinson Elementary School and the Florida House. They combined and there was a school bus that took people between the three.”
One exhibitor from last year’s event said “To see the passion of the families who come to give their children an opportunity that otherwise would not exist is why I do this. I want everyone to feel part of the community.” The families, however, are not the only ones learning from the festival. Event hosts are invited to attend “labinars” hosted by SCGLR. There’s one on putting together effective program content for multi-generational learning, another on marketing to your intended audience and another on how to market outside of your existing circle. “We also do one on social media on how to effectively use that to tell your story so we are finding that work has a ripple effect–certainly it helps remake learning days be successful but it also helps these organizations to be successful for any parent and family engagement event that they put forth during the year,” says Duda. “We’ve seen organizations that have become familiar with each other through remake learning days who are now partnering on events that fall beyond our calendar window. That to me is one of the important things that this festival has brought to our region–an understanding that learning happens everywhere, not just in a school and that all of us as community members have a stake in the success of our children. SRQ
Themes of Suncoast Remake Learning Days
Arts features hands-on learning and expression through all kinds of art, including theater, dance, visual art, music, photography, and more.
Maker “Making” is about taking things apart and putting them back together.
Outdoor Learning is about experiencing and learning about the natural world. How can we consider the environment, sustainability, and more by exploring our backyards?
Science is all about experimentation! Kids and adults can explore chemistry, biology, and geography. How does our world work? What can we test and study in the world around us?
Technology allows kids to investigate the digital world, like coding, building robots, and learning circuitry.
Youth Voice provides a platform for young individuals to express themselves through creative mediums, including audio, video, art, music, and more. These youth-centered events serve as a powerful showcase of how the younger generation articulates their thoughts, feelings, and perspectives in uniquely authentic ways.
Professional Development:
For traditional and non-traditional educators, credited and non-credited professional development featuring STEAM-inspired learning (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) can be covered by various organizations, fostering continuous growth and innovation in the field of education.
GivingCoast
YOUR GUIDE TO GIVING OPPORTUNITIES BOOSTS THE IMPACT FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS WORKING IN OUR REGION. BECOME A PART OF THE REGIONAL PHILANTHROPIC STORY BY FULFILLING THEIR GIVING BACK WISH LISTS.
ALL FAITHS FOOD BANK | BIG CAT HABITAT | BISHOP MUSEUM | BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF SARASOTA AND DESOTO COUNTIES | CENTERSTONE | EARLY LEARNING COALITION | FAMILY PROMISE OF SOUTH SARASOTA IMPACT100 SRQ | MANATEE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION | RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN SARASOTA MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION | SARASOTA ORCHESTRA | SAVE OUR SEABIRDS TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN | THE VENICE SYMPHONY | YMCA OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
DONOR'S GUIDE TO GIVING
Our Wish List
$2,500 provides an annual Club Membership, giving one child complete access to out-of-school and summertime programs.
$1,000 enlists behavioral health professionals to provide individualized mental wellness sessions to those who need us most.
$500 empowers teens to actively participate in the community through leadership and civic engagement training.
$250 ensures all members have academic support to reach grade-level benchmarks in school.
$100 helps members earn A’s with academic supplies and tutoring.
BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF SARASOTA AND DESOTO COUNTIES 3130 FRUITVILLE ROAD SARASOTA, FL 34237
941.366.3911 | BGCSDC.ORG
Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties
BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF SARASOTA AND DESOTO COUNTIES IS A NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED LEADER IN YOUTH DEVELOPMENT, offering enriching out-of-school and summer programs for thousands of kids and teens, ages 6 to 18. For more than 50 years, the organization has empowered young people to reach their full potential through high-quality youth development programs that foster academic success, leadership, healthy lifestyles, and career exploration. FOR KIDS AGES 6-12, the organization’s awardwinning Great Futures Academy provides intensive instruction in key subjects like Reading, Math, and Science to help them achieve grade-level benchmarks and on-time grade advancement during the school year and avoid learning loss during the summer. The program also provides Club members with homework help, tutoring, educational activities, and project-based learning. TEENS AGES 13-18 can access nationally recognized programs at The Club, including opportunities to build their own businesses, serve as a voting member of a local board, and intern with an area business. Through leadership development, career preparation, volunteerism, and entrepreneurship, they build essential life skills, amplify their voices, and turn their passions into action—advocating for the causes they believe in. TOGETHER, WE
CAN HELP CLUB MEMBERS UNLOCK THEIR FULL POTENTIAL, foster meaningful change, and shape the future they envision. WE INVITE YOU TO EXPERIENCE THE IMPACT FIRST-HAND. Join us for a private tour of one of our six Clubs to witness the mission in action and see how you can empower tomorrow’s leaders by investing in great futures today. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT BGCSDC.ORG OR CALL 941-366-3911.
Centerstone
HOPE. HEALING. A PATH FORWARD. Mental health challenges touch us all. Whether it’s a friend, a loved one, or even ourselves, making the decision to ask for help isn’t easy. At Centerstone, we provide COMPASSIONATE, LIFE-CHANGING care for individuals and families struggling with mental health and substance use disorders. FOR NEARLY 70 YEARS, CENTERSTONE HAS BEEN A BEACON OF HOPE, offering therapy, addiction recovery, and social support for people of all ages. From outpatient counseling to inpatient treatment at our Behavioral Hospital and Addiction Center and community-based programs, our dedicated professionals ensure that everyone—children, adults, and seniors—has access to the help they need to heal and thrive. Each year, Centerstone serves nearly 110,000 people nationwide, including over 15,000 right here in Florida. With facilities in Manatee and Sarasota counties and across much of southwest Florida, we are DEEPLY ROOTED in the communities we serve. BRANDY’S STORY IS PROOF OF WHAT’S POSSIBLE. Living with bipolar disorder, she has relied on Centerstone for care and support for over 30 years. Thanks to compassionate treatment, she has built a FULFILLING LIFE as a mother and grandmother. “The people I deal with at Centerstone know me very well. They’ve always been more like a family to me. They’re genuine,” she says. Your support makes stories like Brandy’s possible. Together, we can ensure that no one faces mental health challenges alone. Join us in making a difference.
Our Wish List
$2,500 allows access to mental health/addiction care for individuals and families
$1,000 serves meals for patients in our behavioral hospital and addictions center
$500 provides medication for patients with little or no resources
$100 helps to provide art or play therapy supplies for a child recovering from trauma or abuse
Donate new books, art supplies, and playground materials for preschools
Sponsor professional development opportunities for early educators
Provide scholarships for aspiring preschool teachers
Partner with businesses to launch early literacy and family engagement initiatives
Volunteer for our Literacy Buddy pen pal program, preschool makeovers, and special events.
1750 17TH STREET | BUILDING L SARASOTA, FL 34234
ELCSARASOTA.ORG 941-954-4830
INFORMATION@ELCSARASOTA.ORG
Sponsorship by Early Learning Coalition of Sarasota County; the State of Florida, Florida Department of Education's Division of Early Learning, and in whole or in part by Sarasota County Government.
AT THE EARLY LEARNING COALITION OF SARASOTA COUNTY (ELC), WE BELIEVE THAT EVERY CHILD DESERVES A STRONG FOUNDATION FOR LIFELONG SUCCESS. Our mission is to prepare children for kindergarten and beyond by making high-quality early learning experiences accessible and affordable for families in our community. Through strategic programs and community collaborations, we help shape the future by empowering our li lest learners from the start, ensuring they thrive by the age of five. ONE OF OUR CORE INITIATIVES IS THE SCHOOL READINESS PROGRAM, which provides financial assistance to income-families seeking quality childcare. We also administer the state’s local Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) program, which offers free preschool to all Florida 4-year-olds, regardless of household income. Our Aspire Teacher Training Institute provides free, hands-on, year-round professional development to educators, including our pioneering REGISTERED APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM offering a free career launch to new preschool teachers and a free certification pathway to established teachers. WE ADDRESS THE COMMUNITY'S NEEDS by working directly with families, childcare providers, and community partners to eliminate barriers to early learning. Through parent engagement and outreach efforts, we connect caregivers with valuable resources to support their child's development. Events like Storybook Street enhance literacy and help build home libraries, while our annual Provider Conference reinforces our role as the central hub for early education training. Additionally, our partnerships with local chambers, fellow nonprofits and dedicated volunteers strengthen our commitment to fostering a connected community that prioritizes early learning and understands its lasting impact. QUALITY CHILDCARE IS EVERYONE’S BUSINESS—when children have a strong start in life, families thrive, businesses benefit from a reliable workforce, and communities become more resilient. Investing in early learning creates a ripple effect that shapes a more prosperous future for all.
YMCA of Southwest Florida
FOR 58 YEARS, YMCA OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA has strengthened communities by connecting people to their potential, purpose and each other. Serving Manatee, Sarasota, Charlo e, Lee, DeSoto, Hendry and Glades counties, the Y operates ten facilities, two charter middle schools, four early learning academies and various summer camps and a erschool programs. THE MISSION OF THE YMCA is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. As an inclusive, cause-driven organization, the Y is commi ed to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. BY UNITING PEOPLE FROM DIVERSE BACKGROUNDS AND GENERATIONS, we ensure access to opportunities, relationships and resources for all to learn, grow and thrive. GIVING BACK AND SUPPORTING OUR NEIGHBORS is at the heart of the Y. Meeting the emerging needs of our communities is where we are o en needed most. Our programs and services focus on areas of impact that help people achieve their goals and strengthen communities. From reducing senior isolation and fighting food insecurity to promoting health initiatives, preventing drowning, supporting grade-level reading and responding to disasters, the Y is commi ed to providing essential support where it’s needed most. WE CREATE OPPORTUNITIES FOR INDIVIDUALS TO IMPROVE THEIR LIVES AND THEIR COMMUNITIES. By empowering young people, enhancing well-being and inspiring action, the Y drives meaningful change across Southwest Florida. WITH A STRONG PRESENCE AND PARTNERSHIPS, the Y doesn’t just promise but delivers lasting personal and social change. Partner with us and make a lasting impact.
Our Mission
Send a Kid to Camp: Support YMCA Summer Camp and give children the Best Summer Ever, creating lifelong memories.
Prepare Children for Kindergarten: Support YMCA Early Learning programs to equip kids with essential school readiness skills.
Create Healthy Families & Communities: Support YMCA Health Innovations for life-changing programs that promote wellbeing, fi ght chronic disease, and empower healthier lives.
Prevent Childhood Drowning: Support YMCA water safety and swim lessons, helping children develop life-saving skills to reduce drowning risks.
Fight Food Insecurity with the YMCA: Support the YMCA Food Program to ensure children and families have access to nutritious meals.
Together with our partners, we provide healthy solutions to end hunger in our community.
All Faiths Food Bank
Our Wish List
Host An Event amongst the original party animals and have a wild birthday party, holiday party, rehearsal dinner, corporate or milestone event!
Become A Member and be a part of the BCH family!
Donate towards animal care, habitat construction and park improvements.
Volunteer opportunities in gardening, educational tours, construction and more.
WHAT DOES SUMMER HUNGER FEEL LIKE?
For many children, summer is like an emptiness they can’t escape. More than 40,000 local students will need food this summer as they lose access to school meals. Since its inception 12 years ago, All Faiths Food Bank’s Campaign Against Summer Hunger has been our community’s strongest line of defense against child hunger. In 2024 alone, more than 35,000 local kids received nutritious meals during the summer months. Donations to the Campaign Against Summer Hunger through May 15 will be matched dollar for dollar to ensure our children have the nourishment — and hope — they need to thrive.
Big Cat Habitat
BIG CAT HABITAT CONSERVATION AND EDUCATION CENTER
provides a safe, loving and permanent home to over 300 animals spanning more than 60 species including lions, tigers, bears, monkeys, birds and more. We welcome guests from around the world to visit, encounter, experience and fall in love with our animals year-round. We believe that educating our guests on the importance of conservation and species preservation can cultivate a deeper understanding of the vital connection between humans and animals. We encourage everyone to help save animals from extinction and inspire community action for a be er tomorrow with EDUCATION, CONSERVATION AND CONNECTION. Through our outreach team we share our knowledge and passion for animals in the community at schools, libraries, festivals and events.
The Bishop Museum Of Science and Nature
DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF THE BISHOP MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND NATURE! This Museum boasts thoughtprovoking exhibits that are sure to ignite curiosity for all ages. From the Mosaic Backyard Universe to the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat, visitors can learn about natural history and space exploration and even help endangered manatees. The Bishop's Planetarium offers immersive space journeys, while special education programs fuel the local learning ecosystem. You can support The Bishop's mission to inspire future scientists and nature lovers by visiting and donating to the Museum. With your contribution, The Bishop can continue to offer educational experiences to visitors and students alike. Come experience the magic of discovery and exploration at The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature!
THE BISHOP MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND NATURE
201 10TH STREET WEST, BRADENTON, FL 34205 | 941.746.4131
FAMILY PROMISE OF SOUTH SARASOTA COUNTY helps Sarasota County children and their families overcome housing insecurity and achieve lasting self-sufficiency. We believe every child deserves a safe place to sleep and a stable home environment where they can thrive. THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING CRISIS AND RISING COSTS OF LIVING are forcing many working families into homelessness or unstable living situations. THROUGH OUR BRIDGE HOUSING SHELTER PROGRAM, Open Door prevention and diversion assistance, Pathways Home transitional housing, and our affordable rental units, we provide emergency shelter, rent assistance, supportive services, and long-term housing solutions. WE MEET FAMILIES WHERE THEY ARE, walking alongside them with compassionate, personalized support to help them rebuild and succeed. YOUR SUPPORT PROVIDES HOPE, STABILITY, AND OPPORTUNITY TO OUR NEIGHBORS IN NEED.
FAMILY PROMISE OF SOUTH SARASOTA COUNTY
JENNIFER FAGENBAUM, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 850 COCKRILL STREET, VENICE, FL 34285 | 941-497-9887 X106
JF@FAMILYPROMISESSC.ORG | FAMILYPROMISESSC.ORG
Our Wish List
Le uce for feeding the rehabilitating manatees to promote recovery and weight gain. New educational interactives focusing on innovation, engineering, and discovery to engage multigenerational visitors.
Funding to ensure the development of Museum exhibitions and collections so that future generations can continue to learn from and appreciate our shared heritage.
Our Wish List
FPSSC needs donations to sustain vital programs, event sponsors for our 10th Anniversary Gala in October 2025, and Capital Campaign contributions to build more affordable housing. Every gift—of time, talent, or treasure—helps a local child sleep safely tonight and dream big for tomorrow.
DONOR'S GUIDE TO GIVING
Our Wish List
More women to join our mission and amplify our impact.
Nonprofits with big dreams— because we love funding gamechanging initiatives!
Businesses that champion all-volunteer, women-led philanthropy and want to keep Impact100 SRQ thriving by supporting operations, scholarships, and outreach efforts.
Impact100 SRQ
IMPACT100 SRQ: WOMEN WHO GIVE. GRANTS THAT CHANGE LIVES. What happens when a group of passionate women come together with a shared goal? Big things! At Impact100 SRQ, we believe in the power of collective giving—where every woman’s $1,000 donation combines to fund highimpact $100,000+ grants for local nonprofits. OUR MEMBERS GIVE, WE GRANT, AND NONPROFITS THRIVE BUT IT’S MORE THAN THAT. Our members also review grant applications, connect with local nonprofits, and vote to fund initiatives that align with our mission and community needs. Since our start, we’ve awarded millions in grants, fueling initiatives that upli families, protect the environment, support education, and more. Every woman gets a vote, every dollar makes a difference, and together, we are transforming our community in ways no one could do alone. JOIN US AND BE PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER! MEMBERSHIP IS OPEN TO ALL WOMEN WHO WANT TO MAKE AN IMPACT.
SRQ
Ringling College of Art and Design
FOR OVER 90 YEARS, RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN HAS BEEN A PLACE FOR THE WORLD’S MOST TALENTED EMERGING ARTISTS AND DESIGNERS. Here, we know that creative problem solvers require a unique environment to reach their full potential. To meet the needs of our growing community, Ringling College has launched the comprehensive campaign, Catalyst for Creativity. Together, we will focus on supporting students and faculty, expanding our campus footprint with the new Signature Academic Building, and engaging thousands through artistic and educational programs such as seven on-campus galleries, Sarasota Art Museum, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at Ringling College, TOWN HALL Speaker Series, and more. SO JOIN US! BRING YOUR CREATIVITY AND YOUR PASSION TO RINGLING COLLEGE AS WE INSPIRE, LEARN, GROW, AND CREATE.
RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN 1700 N. TAMIAMI TRAIL | SARASOTA, FL 34234 | 941-309-4733 GIVING@RINGLING.EDU | RINGLING.EDU
Areas of Focus
Igniting Creativity:
With support for student scholarships, we can remove the financial barriers and pave student’s paths to graduation. This allows Ringling College’s bright and passionate young people to turn their skills, talents, and dreams into active and impactful lives and careers.
Building Creativity:
Prominently located along North Tamiami Trail, Ringling College’s newest building will serve as a gateway to campus and as an iconic cultural signifier of Sarasota. It will house four high-tech academic majors, the Richard and Barbara Basch Gallery, Campus Welcome Center, and 6,000+ square foot event space.
Connecting Creativity:
Ringling College’s role in the community continues to expand as a leader, convener, and cultural partner. Additional investments are required to ensure that thousands of people from across our region have meaningful access to our artistic and educational programs.
Our Seabirds
SAVE OUR SEABIRDS is dedicated to the RESCUE, REHABILITATION, AND RELEASE of sick and injured wild birds throughout the Sarasota region. At our on-site AVIAN CLINIC, we provide critical medical care to birds in need, responding to over 5,000 DISTRESS CALLS EACH YEAR. Our BIRD WALK features approximately 100 NON-RELEASABLE RESIDENT BIRDS whose stories help educate visitors about avian conservation. We are OPEN TO THE PUBLIC EVERY DAY and offer FIELD TRIPS FOR ALL AGES, along with regular participation in community events. As a GOLD LEVEL CERTIFIED MEMBER OF THE FLORIDA SOCIETY FOR ETHICAL ECOTOURISM AND A TOP-RATED NONPROFIT ON CHARITY NAVIGATOR, we’re proud to connect wildlife care with public education.
Our Wish List
We are seeking volunteers to assist with daily operations, from guest engagement to wild bird rescues. We need funding for critical facility upgrades, including a new avian hospital and improved enclosures to better serve birds in need.
DONOR'S GUIDE TO GIVING
Our Wish List
Funding for scholarships to ensure all students have access to higher education.
Support for graduation costs, including cap and gown fees and ceremony expenses.
Funding for expanding our mentorship program to serve more students.
Take Stock in Children Manatee County
TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN OF MANATEE COUNTY (TSICM) is dedicated to transforming the lives of underserved students by providing mentorship, scholarships, and educational resources. Our mission is to break the cycle of poverty through education, guiding students from middle school to postsecondary success. Through our MENTORSHIP PROGRAM, we connect students with caring mentors in and around Manatee County who provide academic and emotional support. Our SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM offers scholarships to a end college or vocational school, helping students overcome financial barriers. By addressing gaps in education and access to higher learning, we empower students to achieve their potential.
JOIN US IN SUPPORTING THESE LIFE-CHANGING INITIATIVES AND CREATING A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR OUR COMMUNITY.
TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN MANATEE COUNTY
ANNE LEBARON, PO BOX 325, PALMETTO, FL 34220 ANNE@TAKESTOCKMANATEE.ORG MANATEETAKESTOCK.ORG | @TSICMANATEE
ENGAGING
READERS THROUGH STORYTELLING
— SERVING FAMILIES IN THE REGION
In Conversation
INNOVATION IN CHILDREN’S SERVICES
A CONVERSATION WITH PHILIP TAVILL, PRESIDENT & CEO OF CHILDREN FIRST
PHILIP TAVILL has been President & CEO of Children First, Sarasota County’s exclusive Head Start provider, since 1996. He obtained a baccalaureate degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 1989. He returned to Sarasota and was appointed Executive Director of the Loveland Center in 1991. Subsequently, at Case Western Reserve University, he earned a Master of Nonprofit Organizations from the Weatherhead School of Management and a Master of Science in Social Administration from the Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences. Mr. Tavill has worked in the human services field both in direct service and management capacities for the last 36 years. In 2022, Mr. Tavill received the Mandel School Alumni Association Nonprofit Leadership Award. Most recently, he was recognized with the Billy J. McCain, Sr. Excellence in Community Service Award from the National Head Start Association and the Sargent Shriver Community Service Award from the Florida Head Start Association for his impact in elevating excellence across the Head Start community.
WITH ALL THE IMPACTFUL EVENTS OVER THE PAST 5 YEARS, WHAT SPECIAL NEEDS ARE YOU SEEING IN THE CHILDREN AND FAMILIES YOU SERVE AND HOW ARE YOU ADDRESSING THEM?
PHILIP TAVILL What we have seen is a surge in needs regarding behavioral health and mental health in children, families and staff. Think about a three-year-old who has experienced a hurricane.
How does she process the fear that she felt from the adults around her?
Think about how she processes that her home may have been without power like mine was for a week. How does that three-year-old process the disruption in routine, not coming to school and seeing her bestie and her loving teachers? Think about the teacher, the educator who works for us, who, as we went into COVID said,
“What’s going to happen to my job?” That staff member was dealing with, and you can multiply this by close to 200 staff, isolation, maybe getting this virus, the loss of a daily structure and the fear and anxiety about the well-being of her children from her classroom and their families. So, these are some examples around the behavioral and mental health impact. We realized actually, going back to
MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES WORKFORCE RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION
a strategic board planning retreat in November of 2014, that while there are some really excellent agencies out there doing mental health work, behavioral health work, we needed to develop our own infrastructure. Our mental health specialists who work with our children, families and staff members have been just one of the ways that we have responded to this discord that has come from so many different areas.
WHAT SPECIAL PROGRAMS DO YOU HAVE THAT HELP CHILDREN AND FAMLIES NAVIGATE UNCERTAIN TIMES? I’ll start with something very tangible. We have our Families First Institute. These are courses that we o er to our families and the community, free of charge. We o er them in the evening, they’re very easy to get to because they’re at our sites where the parents bring their kids. We provide dinner for the family, free childcare and we have everything ranging from budgeting courses to a great course called Circle of Security facilitated by our mental health sta . It’s designed to teach how to become a better parent and how to build your own self-resilience. We have a class called Nurturing Dads about how to become a better father. That’s probably our most well-known class because we’re 25 years in on it. Those are very tangible ways that we help families develop emotional, financial and economic resiliency. All of our curriculum for our children is based around brain development and here are the easy ones: fine motor and gross motor skills–easily observed and measured. Then you start getting into social development, emotional development, and when you think about emotional development, that’s where resilience lies. So, how do you work with children when 90% of their brain development is occurring, to help them develop those emotional tools, including resiliency, to be able to become well-adjusted, to interact well? We use a curriculum called the HighScope curriculum, nationally researched, valid and reliable, that speaks very specifically to resilience amongst many other aspects of a child’s development. We do it in a very intentional and holistic way so that it encompasses the entire family as well as our sta because it’s so critical that our sta also have that resilience for the benefit of mission fulfillment.
foundation said, “We’re all aboard.” But one of the volunteers in the committee reviewing it said, “The kids don’t really need computers in the classroom until they go to kindergarten, and we’re struggling with that. Could you present to the committee?” I agreed and got in front of that committee and I said, “Let me tell you what the issue is. One of our kids gets to kindergarten, but they don’t have computers in their home. Their parent might have a smartphone, but they don’t have access to the software. The kindergarten teacher says, “Now I want you to take the mouse...” Our kid is looking around on the ground for a mouse running around.” The committee laughed and said, “Point well taken.” They funded our first set of classroom computers. Now, every single one of our preschool classrooms has computers. Technology also plays a role for us in terms of our parenting courses. I know it sounds simplistic, but what we have found is that there are families that find it di cult to get on site. Sixty-four percent, two-thirds of our families are single-head-ofhousehold. By o ering those eightten week courses virtually, we’ve been able to increase our enrollment and maintain very high attendance rates. So, technology in terms of virtual o ering is huge for families. Technology in the classrooms is huge, and we also use technology with our sta because we use that HighScope curriculum. Our classroom observation and assessments for progress all happen because of technology.
has been workforce attainment, recruitment and retention. So, we turned our attention to that as our top priority in our strategic planning. We’ve been very intentional, literally since 2016 when we could start to have a little budget breathing room, in working to bring our early childhood educators’ pay to a parity level with public education educators. There are very few places that, never mind being focused on it, are doing as much as we are doing to make that the case. We’ve been highly successful and we’re not done yet–we’re going to keep going with it, so that the vast majority of our preschool classrooms are led by a teacher with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.
sta . And we are just bringing on a halftime person who will have a very specific focus on postpartum depression. At any given time, we have a significant number of pregnant moms and new moms so for us to have a highly qualified LCSW with a 15-month-old child herself is very, very exciting. We’re also looking at how we continue to position ourselves well for the future. It’s really thinking about a current unmet need and anticipated need and how we continually innovate to do that e ectively.
WHAT DO YOU WANT OUR READERS TO KNOW ABOUT WHAT YOUR ORGANIZATION?
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE WHO IS THINKING ABOUT A CAREER IN CHILDREN AND FAMILY
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST CONCERN AT THE MOMENT REGARDING EARLY CHILDHOOD?
First, take a tour and figure out how you could be a part of our Children First Family as a volunteer. Volunteers are such a big part of us being a nationally recognized program of excellence. Come and rock a baby, help us administratively or drag bags of mulch around. Bring us your love and expertise. Second, a significant portion of our budget is private philanthropic support, and that’s what allows us to have the early childhood mental health specialist, the Families First Institute. Much of what we do is fully funded through private philanthropy so we’re always looking for that support in an informed manner. We want people to know about us. The third thing is advocacy for high-quality early childhood education. Advocate that every child in our community has the opportunity, regardless of income level, to have a high-quality early childhood education. That advocacy is not just for Children First, it’s for every single child in our community because they all have the potential.
WHAT TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS DO YOU FIND MOST HELPFUL IN FURTHERING YOUR MISSION? We’re going to get in the wayback machine when we were applying for classroom computers to a local foundation. The sta at the
During COVID, there were a lot of articles about the number of teachers who left the national K-12 system. Estimates are that in early care and education, which is six weeks to five years old, 80 to 100,000 educators left the field. We kept our infrastructure intact but we were the exception, not the rule. Combine that with very high cost of living increases locally, rent being the primary one and a field that traditionally has had pretty low wages, and our biggest challenge
SERVICES? Before I’d give them advice, I would say to them, “You’re doing this because you have it in your heart, and that should be recognized and applauded.”My advice to them would be that, number one, they should do everything that they can to pursue their education. One of our retention tools is taking advantage of a state program called TEACH (Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education) and what that allows our sta to do is to pursue certification–a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, depending on where they’re starting–at almost no cost to them because of scholarship, and with a commitment by Children First to provide them with three hours paid time a week for study. At last count, I think we had 36 sta in the TEACH scholarship program. So, I would advise somebody to pursue their education, because each educational attainment gives you a key to a bigger door of opportunity. The second thing that I would advise them is is to find a place that is entirely mission-based, where they highly value their employees.
WHAT NEW PROGRAMS ARE ON THE
HORIZON? We have a donor who has allowed us to expand our early childhood mental health focus, inclusive of families and
1723 N. Orange Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34234
941.953.3877
info@childrenfirst.net
childrenfirst.net
@ChildrenFirstHeadStart
giving coast
A LIFE OF SERVICE
From Military Roots to Pro Bono Advocacy, Attorney Neil Lyons Uses His Legal Skills to Give Back to the Community. Barbie Heit
NEIL LYONS NEVER REALLY FELT HE HAD A PLACE TO CALL HOME, but when he moved to Sarasota almost 30 years ago, that all changed. Today, Lyons is a local attorney who has selflessly served the elderly, homeless and underserved members of our community on a pro-bono basis throughout his career. Born in San Diego in 1981, Lyons is the son of a military father. As many military families do, he moved with his family throughout the States often. They relocated to the area in 1995 after his dad retired from the Navy. He was 14 years old at the time and attended Cardinal Mooney High School, graduating with the class of 1999. Lyons has been married for 17 years to Sarasota native and nurse practitioner, Mary Soscia Lyons, who just happened to graduate from Cardinal Mooney at the same time. Lyons admits, “We didn’t exchange anything more than pleasantries during that time.” Today, Mary is not only his wife but also his best friend. “This life, including my ability to provide pro bono services, would be impossible without her.” Together, they have two sons—Luke, 13 and Dylan, 8—and a lively Australian Shepherd named Winston.
Two individuals were incredibly instrumental in Lyons becoming an attorney–his father, Mel Lyons, and his father-in-law, Dr. John L. Soscia. “My father served 25 years in the United States Navy. My father-in-law provided medical services to the less fortunate in Harlem when he lived in New York. Both of these men are no longer with us,” Lyons says. “If I did not use my skills to serve the members of our community, it would be a dishonor to their memories and their dedication to service. I owe them a debt which can never be fully repaid. So, I use my skills and my law license as an attorney to serve indigent clients in our community as payment for that debt.”
Lyons founded the Sarasota County Bar Association’s Access to Justice Task Force to coordinate pro bono work among SCBA members, legal aid organizations and the court system. The task force was the brainchild of then-SCBA President Jennifer Grosso in response to legal challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly concerning eviction moratoriums set to expire that fall. As a SCBA director, Lyons advocated for preparing a team of volunteer attorneys to handle an expected surge of impoverished clients. Grosso appointed him as Chair, giving him access to SCBA resources. Lyons credits SCBA executive director Holly Lipps for her organizational support and Lipps is one of many who speak highly of Lyons. “I have worked closely with Neil for almost 10 years. He is highly dedicated not only to the legal community but also to serving indigent clients through
Legal Aid of Manasota and the SCBA’s Access to Justice Committee.” The task force not only allowed Lyons to continue his traditional pro bono work but also facilitated collaborative projects, expanding volunteer opportunities and reaching more people in need of legal assistance. One major project was creating instructional videos for pro se litigants filing petitions for injunctions for protection (restraining orders). Attorneys Tony Mowry, Robert Young, Michele Stephan and Lyons worked together on this initiative. Despite years of discussion, the task force successfully developed step-bystep videos for the six types of injunction forms. These videos, aimed at helping pro se filers understand the process, are now available on the Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto counties’ clerk websites.
While the pro bono work takes up most of his spare time, Lyons makes an effort to volunteer with events put on by Legal Aid of Manasota such as the “Law Days at the Library” or the “Newtown Wills Project”. And when he’s not working or volunteering, he spends a lot of time with his wife and kids. “We do things as a family. I also enjoy taking the kids to practice for their sports and attending their games on the weekend,” he shares. “One of the things I don’t do with my family is attend extreme metal live shows. I also really enjoy listening to other genres of music in general, more specifically post-punk and darkwave. There are still plenty of talented bands and artists making new music in those two genres.” Recently, Lyons built a home gym in his garage and
he uses it every day. “Aside from actually enjoying a daily workout, it’s also beneficial for someone like me, who’s on the wrong side of 40. I mean, if I don’t work out every day, clothes are no longer fitting.”
Former heavyweight champion of the world, the late great Muhammad Ali said that “service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth” and Lyons agrees. “Providing indigent clients with pro bono legal representation is truly a service to our community,” he says. “Essentially, using my talents and professional license to provide legal representation in my community is how I pay my rent and debt for my room here on Earth. It is a privilege to give back to the less fortunate members of this community.”
“I don’t do pro bono work for the recognition, but it is certainly an honor to be able to serve the community,” Lyons adds. “Even among a largely affluent population, there are many vulnerable groups in the Sarasota area with a tremendous need for pro bono legal services and I consider myself fortunate to be able to use my experience and skills for the greater good and help people. I don’t consider myself a hero, but I try to be a good human and I appreciate that SRQ Magazine spotlights so many people who are making a difference in our community.“
SRQ Neil Lyons was honored as a Good Hero by SRQ Magazine in December 2023.
wellness
WHOLE PERSON HEALING
Explore an integrative approach to wellness with local practitioners. Barbie Heit
FROM WHOLESOME EATING HABITS TO DEDICATED EXERCISE REGIMENS, our community is deeply committed to a healthy lifestyle, embracing a wide range of treatment options to suit diverse needs. We value a holistic approach to health, understanding that physical, mental and emotional well-being are all interconnected. This open-mindedness extends to integrative medicine, combining conventional treatments with alternative therapies like acupuncture, herbal medicine and mindfulness practices. Our community’s dedication to well-rounded healthcare ensures that everyone has access to the care best suited to their individual preferences and needs.
AVEN CLINIC
AVEN CLINIC SPECIALIZES IN A FULL SPECTRUM OF HEALTH CONDITIONS, including sexual health, aging, weight gain, hormone imbalance, chronic viral illness, immune system regeneration, autoimmune conditions, Lyme disease, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia and more. Owner and Medical Director, Karolina Baker, MD is a board-certified Family Medicine Physician and Functional Medicine provider. She was born in Poland, the daughter of a family doctor whose private office was on the main floor of their house. “I grew up witnessing my dad’s excellent work ethic and dedication to medicine. He inspired me to pursue a career in medicine,” she says. She has many professional interests including integrative psychiatry and bio-identical hormones and holds several licenses and certifications. The clinic is named for a resilient flower that grows in the mountains and it is also a combination of her children's names, Ava and Aiden.
“At Aven Clinic, we practice both integrative and functional medicine. Integrative medicine means that we implement an alternative approach to Western medicine. Functional medicine focuses on ‘why’ the disease happened and the root cause of the problem,” Dr. Baker explains. “What makes us different is that we approach our patients and their bodies as a whole. While treating the patient, we perform comprehensive diagnostics; we test and don't guess. Alongside the diagnostic tests, we implement diet and lifestyle changes, address physical, emotional, and dietary stressors, and use nutraceuticals. We are also very open to collaboration with our patient’s primary care physician or other specialists.”
Dr. Baker recalls seeing a patient who came to her with severe arthritis, back pain and depression. “She was on multiple medications for pain, depression, anxiety and insomnia. After six months with us, her pain level was reduced by 80%. When we met, she was limited to one hour of activity per day, and after following my protocol, is now able to bike ride and is not depressed anymore. Since her brain health improved and her pain subsided, she did not need so many pharmaceuticals anymore.”
The clinic often gets inquiries from people who have never experienced functional medicine and are curious about the treatment costs and their involvement in the process. “I emphasize education before they see us at the clinic. I will partner with and educate you, but you must actively participate in your healing journey. Your health starts in your own kitchen. I am not here to provide a quick fix that is neither lasting nor addresses the root of the issue. I am here to guide you, and you need to be involved in the whole process, including lifestyle, diet and stress management,” she says. “The other important aspect is the cost. Since insurance companies do not cover the costs of functional medicine, we are a cash-based practice. This allows me to choose your treatment plan based on what
you need and not what your insurance pays for. If you want to live a happy and healthy life, I encourage you to be your own health advocate and take action.”
MIND BODY MEDICINE OF FLORIDA
MIND BODY MEDICINE OF FLORIDA IS LED BY MARK SYLVESTER, MD. The practice offers a variety of alternative medicine approaches. They utilize a unified approach that combines integrative and functional medicine, natural healthcare and energy medicine to support patients in achieving and maintaining their health goals. With a background in engineering, Dr. Sylvester’s approach to medicine has always been rooted in uncovering the ‘why’ behind disease, illness and optimal health. His allopathic training exposed him to the limitations of conventional medicine, but it was his personal battle with metal toxicity that truly opened his eyes and made him realize that many of his colleagues were not trained to think beyond their narrow specialties, often failing to ask the critical question: What is the root cause?
“A few years ago, while watching Field of Dreams with my family, I had a vision—our community needed a truly comprehensive wellness center. A place that didn’t just treat symptoms but sought to uncover the root cause of illness, integrating wisdom from all fields of healing to address the mind, body and spirit,” shares Dr. Sylvester. That vision became Mind Body Medicine of Florida.
Dr. Sylvester explains that integrative medicine blends the best of both Eastern (osteopathic, holistic) and Western (allopathic) approaches, expanding the toolbox for healing; however, conventional medicine often takes a, “one-size-fits-all” approach, leaving many patients feeling unheard, misdiagnosed or trapped in a cycle of symptoms without real solutions. This gap has created a generation of “medical refugees”— individuals who are left navigating their health alone, unsure of whom to trust. Integrative medicine seeks to change that by treating the whole person, not just the diagnosis. “One of the most rewarding aspects of my journey in treating complex illnesses is seeing how many chronic conditions can be effectively managed—and, in some cases, completely reversed when the root cause is properly addressed. I’ve had numerous cases where neurologic diseases were significantly improved or even eliminated by identifying and removing toxicities and bio-toxin accumulation,” he adds. “A personal example: I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a condition considered lifelong and progressive. After identifying and eliminating a severe mercury toxicity (erethism), my symptoms completely resolved. This experience not only changed my health—it changed my approach to medicine.”
Opposite page, left to right: Dr. Karolina Baker of Aven Clinic; Dr.. Mark Sylvester of Mind Body Medicine of Florida.
For those interested in learning more about integrative medicine, Dr. Sylvester advises having an open mind and being willing to think outside the box. “Be your own health advocate—do the research, ask the questions, and seek out the best options for you. Many people feel confined to only using in-network doctors and pharmacies, not realizing that maintaining your health outside the limits of insurance is often far more affordable than the cost of illness. True wellness is about prevention—investing in your health now can save you from the physical, emotional and financial toll of chronic disease later. Find an integrative medicine provider and establish them as your primary care provider. This approach allows for optimizing health, preventing illness, and intervening early with tools that conventional medicine has yet to fully understand. When necessary, integrative medicine can also guide referrals to higher levels of care—where traditional medicine often begins.”
REVEAL VITALITY AND LONGEVITY CENTER
CHRISTOPHER DAVIS, MD, F.A.C.C., FOUNDER AND CEO OF REVEAL
VITALITY AND LONGEVITY CENTER has always been passionate about providing top-notch care and compassion to his clients. After 10 years practicing traditional cardiology he converted his practice to an integrative/functional medicine one in 2017. Dr. Davis shares that many patients find Reveal as a result of ongoing chronic illnesses that have been unsuccessfully treated. “Unfortunately, our current medical system is not designed to address the root cause of many of the chronic illnesses but rather to simply diagnose a condition and prescribe the appropriate medication or procedure,” he says. “At Reveal we strive to provide comprehensive assessments and individualized care plans based on a combination of advanced laboratories, imaging modalities and individual genetic makeup. We also have another group of clientele who simply seek out our practice to ensure optimal health and well-being whether that be through hormone replacement therapy, peptide therapy, stem cell therapy, IV nutrient therapy, ozone therapy or any of the other novel therapeutics that we offer.” Reveal has recently expanded into a health optimization and longevity practice while at the same time dealing with complex chronic illnesses and they’ve opened Reveal Vitality and Longevity Institute which incorporates advanced technologies such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy, cryotherapy, photobiomodulation, molecular hydrogen and sauna therapy. In addition, the practice has multiple AI-driven technologies that promote fitness optimization. With so many options within the integrative medicine space, Dr. Davis stresses the importance of working with a team that is experienced to provide guidance. He recalls treating a 50-year-old patient who was unable to work due to chronic fatigue, headaches and severe musculoskeletal pain. Her evaluation revealed significant environmental toxin exposure and in particular she had very high levels of thorium which is a byproduct of phosphate mining. After doing further research based on her address it turned out that she lived two driveways down from a phosphate mining plant and was drinking unfiltered well water at home. “After this revelation, she stopped consuming the well water and we designed a detoxification program that essentially allowed her to get life back. She is now back to work without any of her prior symptoms. Most of our patients welcome these integrative approaches with open arms as they realize our current medical system is designed to provide more of a Band-Aid approach to our health issues,” says Dr. Davis. “The most important aspect of patient compliance is providing them the education they need to make an informed decision about their own health. Unfortunately, this part of medicine is often overlooked because in the current system, most
This spread, left to right: Dr Christopher Davis of Reveal Vitality and Longevity Center. Dr. Frederick Barnum and his wife, Gabriela Barnum run Karma Osteopathic.
physicians don't have time to provide that education. My hope is that integrative medical practices like Reveal can serve as a role model for how medicine should be practiced to achieve optimal patient outcomes.”
KARMA OSTEOPATHIC
KARMA OSTEOPATHIC IS A HOLISTIC PAIN
MANAGEMENT CLINIC IN SARASOTA owned by Frederick O. Barnum IV, D.O. and his wife, Gabriela L. Barnum. Named after their dog, Karma the CEO (Canine Executive Officer), the practice—which opened in March 2024–operates with a mission to treat the root cause of the problem and not just the symptom. Dr. Barnum is boardcertified in osteopathic neuromuscular skeletal medicine and family medicine and has spent time in every specialty but says he is most passionate about treating patients with his hands, using osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). “I use my hands to help diagnose and prevent illness, injury and bodily dysfunction so in addition to just treating the spine area, I also treat the muscles, bones, tissues and the fascia, which is kind of like the connective wrap of the body,” he explains. Treating individuals as young as one day old and as old as 100 years old, Dr. Barnum always performs a full initial comprehensive evaluation— regardless of symptoms—on every patient. “When you see an osteopathic physician, you're getting a physician who's gone through medical school, residency and is board
certified. When you see me, you're also getting evaluated,” he says. “I have all the rights to prescribe, I can send for diagnostic imaging and I can refer to other physicians if needed. So in addition to the bodywork, you're also getting all of the expertise of a physician.”
After a free 40-minute consultation call and extensive medical history review, Dr. Barnum usually spends anywhere from 90 minutes to two hours with new patients. Follow-up information is sent through email and phone calls are available at no extra charge. “We believe that patients should have access to their physician. We're more of a small intimate clinic seeing an average of about three to six patients a day versus other practices that might see closer to 15 to 20 patients a day for 15 to 20-minute appointments,” adds Dr. Barnum. “We focus on getting to know the whole person, getting to know their entire story, everything about what they've been through from birth to the present day.”
Patients often come to Karma after exhausting all other medical options. “We strive to solve the medical mysteries—the ones where the patient was told ‘you just have to get used to living like this’–challenge accepted!’ says Dr. Barnum. “While most people come to us for chronic pain, we see everything. It could be headaches, dizziness, vertigo, stomach issues or even if someone is just interested in prevention and wellness with lymphatic work to boost the immune system—that’s all in our wheelhouse. A lot of our patients are snowbirds, so sometimes they'll even come for just one or two visits a season and we still make a good dent in it.” SRQ
GUIDE TO SCHOOLS
PRIVATE AND CHARTER SCHOOLS IN SARASOTA + MANATEE COUNTIES
BRADENTON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
DREAMERS ACADEMY
HERSHORIN SCHIFF COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL
INCARNATION CATHOLIC SCHOOL
NEWGATE MONTESSORI SCHOOL
THE OUT-OF-DOOR ACADEMY
BRADENTON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
BRADENTON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL – EXCELLENCE IN CHRISTCENTERED EDUCATION Bradenton Christian School (BCS) has been providing Christ-centered, covenantal, college-preparatory education since 1960. Serving PK3 through 12th grade, BCS partners with Christian families and churches to cultivate academic excellence, spiritual growth, and character development in students. With small class sizes and an optimal student-to-teacher ratio, we create a nurturing environment where students are challenged to think critically, develop a Biblical Worldview, and prepare for lifelong success. Accredited by CSF and MSA/CESS and a member of ACSI, BCS offers a rigorous academic curriculum that integrates faith and learning at every level. Our students have access to Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors courses, Dual Enrollment opportunities, robust Fine Arts programs, competitive Athletics, and diverse extracurricular activities that encourage leadership, creativity, and service.
BRADENTON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
3304 43RD ST W., BRADENTON, FL 34209
P: 941-792-5454
BCSPANTHERS.ORG
WHAT BRADENTON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL OFFERS:
• Strong Academics: Preschool through high school curriculum designed to foster intellectual and spiritual growth
• Athletics: Competes in FHSAA & SSAC, offering 24 varsity teams and 59 sports teams for grades 6-12
• Fine Arts: Music, theater, and visual arts programs fostering creativity as a God-given gift
• Extracurricular Activities: Leadership, academic clubs, and community service opportunities
We invite you to schedule a personal tour of our campus so you may experience our Christ-centered atmosphere and imagine your child’s future at Bradenton Christian School. Please contact us at 941-792-5454 ext. 150 or admissions@bcspanthers.org.
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@bcspanthers @bcspanthers
To provide an excellent, Christ-centered education based on God’s Word, and to prepare the hearts and minds of God’s covenantal children, in partnership with the home and church, for service in God’s world
HERSHORIN SCHIFF COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL
COMMUNITY DAY SCHOOL (CDS) is not just a school – it’s a vibrant community that celebrates the uniqueness of every student and proudly embraces students of all faiths, backgrounds, and ethnicities. As a fully accredited early childhood and K-8 institution, in the decade since incorporating as an independent entity, CDS has grown into a nationally recognized model of education, tripling in size to 325 students and welcoming families representing over 60 different nationalities. Built on the principles of inclusion, acceptance, and tolerance, our goal is simple: to create a safe, small, nurturing learning community where students impact our world as compassionate scholars and global citizens. Community Day School is uniquely positioned to build bridges between different faiths, levels of observance, and cultures — uniting cross-sections of our community that rarely have a space to come together. Our commitment to inclusion is reflected in everything from enrolment to financial aid and academic programming. We offer a welcoming environment where each child belongs - we welcome all.
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The mission of the Hershorin Schiff Community Day School is to impact the world by creating a community where children of all faiths demonstrate integrity, academic excellence, and a desire to improve the world.
Our spacious 8.8-acre campus offers tremendous opportunities for educational exploration and meaningful student experiences. Its central Sarasota location expands our accessibility to families throughout the community. It integrally supports our commitment to all students going outdoors for at least one hour per day in order to create an effective learning environment for the children. In our preschool, we embrace the Reggio Emilia-inspired, play-based method, fostering creativity and curiosity. In Elementary and Middle School, our rigorous, student-centered, project-based curriculum (PBL) ensures that children not only excel academically but also connect their learning to real-world experiences. Small class sizes and a hands-on approach allow students to dive deep into their passions and explore their natural interests. CDS graduates are not only well prepared for advanced placement curriculum but for the world beyond school. They understand their unique strengths, ask bold questions, respect diverse perspectives, and confidently chart their own path. At Community Day School, we don’t just teach knowledge – we inspire students to lead with purpose, compassion, and integrity.
MONTHS THROUGH 8TH GRADE
DREAMERS ACADEMY
“A HAPPY CHILD IS A CHILD THAT LEARNS” is oft-repeated by Dr. Cathy Rodriguez, who leads Sarasota’s innovative bilingual K-8 school. “When children feel loved and challenged they are happier and more engaged. Learning then happens naturally –creating a positive and invigorating school environment,” she said.
Dreamers Academy, a nonprofit public charter school in North Sarasota County, follows a rigorous Dual Language Immersion (DLI) instructional model. DLI increases student engagement and academic proficiency across all subject areas. Not only do children learn grade-level content exceeding Florida’s B.E.S.T. standards, but they do it in and through two languages – English and Spanish.
A middle school is being developed on adjacent land to create a beautiful campus spanning 18 acres, custom-designed to maximize student learning and collaboration. With a new high-tech building, the Middle School seeks to develop future leaders with the communication and academic skills to succeed in high school and beyond.
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Dreamers Academy develops bilingual, biliterate, and crosscultural leaders of character within a caring environment that encourages family engagement and celebrates America.
Each student has two certified teachers, who plan and co-teach across two languages. “This is a distinct pedagogical advantage,” says Dr. Rodriguez, “and provides substantial cognitive benefits unique to DLI.” Intentionality and cohesion in the structure, curriculum, teacher selection, and continuous professional development differentiates Dreamers Academy from traditional English-only schools.
Children can excel academically from kindergarten through 8th grade and gain the lifelong advantage of bilingualism. The bilingual brain is more flexible, with enhanced executive function and self-regulation. Studies show that bilingualism delays the onset of cognitive diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s – while bilingual professionals command competitive jobs and higher salaries.
DREAMERS ACADEMY
2146 MYRTLE ST, SARASOTA, FL 34234
P: 941-888-4000
DREAMERSACADEMY.ORG
@dreamersacademysrq
@dreamersacademysrq
INCARNATION CATHOLIC SCHOOL
ESTABLISHED IN 1961, INCARNATION CATHOLIC SCHOOL (ICS) IS ONE OF THE MOST DISTINGUISHED AND LONGSTANDING CATHOLIC PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN SARASOTA, FL.
Offering a Catholic classical liberal arts education for students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade, ICS fosters a Christcentered environment where families, students, and staff form a unified community. At ICS, we integrate Catholic faith with academic excellence, guiding students to develop a deeper awareness of the transcendent realities of Truth, Beauty, and Goodness. Our Catholic identity is seamlessly woven into the school culture, curriculum, and pedagogy. With a content-rich,
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Incarnation Catholic School provides a Catholic liberal arts education rooted in tradition and centered on the Eucharist, forming the whole person through academic excellence, spiritual formation, and a life of service, inspiring students to grow in faith, knowledge, and love as they seek truth, beauty, and goodness in the mission of Jesus Christ.
sequential curriculum, students build on prior knowledge, deepening their understanding of traditional teachings while embracing Catholic values. Our classrooms are filled with curious, selfmotivated learners who cultivate a love for knowledge and a sense of wonder. Beyond academics, ICS offers over 13 sports programs and more than 20 extracurricular activities, enriching students’ social, spiritual, and personal growth. Nestled in the heart of Sarasota on a secure, park-like campus surrounded by Incarnation Parish, ICS is renowned for its excellence in education and vibrant Catholic school culture.
NEWGATE SCHOOL IS AN INDEPENDENT, NON-PROFIT, INTERNATIONAL, COLLEGE-PREPARATORY MONTESSORI SCHOOL that offers a distinctive educational experience, preparing students for both university and life. As a Montessori school, NewGate nurtures intelligence, curiosity, and imagination, while supporting each student’s unique talents. The school’s goal is to graduate well-rounded individuals who are lifelong learners, critical thinkers, and active leaders in their communities, their country, and the world. NewGate instills universal values, encourages responsible citizenship, and promotes an entrepreneurial spirit. A close-knit and collaborative school community is at the heart of NewGate, where parents, students, and educators work together through open communication, planning, and problem-solving. NewGate emphasizes entrepreneurial skills, economic literacy, and leadership development. Students from the age of six explore local businesses, government roles, and even start their own small businesses. Older students gain real-world experience through workplace internships. NewGate prides itself on its diversity,
bringing together families from many communities. NewGate’s diverse community is dedicated to fostering inclusion and accessibility. The school provides tuition assistance, accepts Florida State Scholarships, and promotes sustainability with organic gardening and environmental education. With a strong commitment to ethical technology use, peace education, and community service, NewGate School prepares students to become compassionate leaders who can positively impact the world around them. We understand that education is a journey, not a race. At NewGate, each child is recognized and respected as a unique individual. Our classrooms focus on hands-on learning, independence, and self-discipline, empowering students to develop into self-confident, kind, and critical thinkers. NewGate is dedicated to providing an innovative, research-based curriculum that nurtures a love of learning and prepares students for success in college, career, and beyond. Through this personalized approach, we ensure each student’s growth is nurtured at their own pace, allowing them to flourish academically, socially, and emotionally.
THE OUT-OF-DOOR ACADEMY
THE OUT-OF-DOOR ACADEMY (ODA) is home to more than 860 students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Named a STEM School of Excellent by the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association, ODA continually implements new programs and strategies to meet the emerging educational needs of the next generation. The School focuses on educating the whole child in a caring, supportive environment. Founded in 1924, ODA honors the legacy of its visionary founders, who established a school where important lessons would be learned “out-of-door”
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or outside the classroom. Central to that vision was a belief that education should include hands-on learning experiences and a balance of academics, athletics, and the arts. Three campuses boast state-of-the-art classrooms, visual and performing arts spaces, athletic facilities, and community spaces. More than 50 student-run clubs and activities, including cultural, arts, and service organizations are offered. ODA remains dedicated to developing self-confident, well-rounded graduates who become responsible, self-reliant members of the global society.
The Out-of-Door Academy is an independent, college preparatory school with campuses in Siesta Key, Lakewood Ranch, and Sarasota. ODA nurtures learners to be their best selves through impactful, challenging, and purposeful growth experiences in a supportive and unique environment.
LOWER SCHOOL HISTORIC SIESTA KEY CAMPUS 444 REID STREET | SARASOTA PRE-K – GRADE 5 LOWER SCHOOL LOWER SCHOOL ON CLARK ROAD 11011 CLARK ROAD | SARASOTA PRE-K - GRADE 2 (2025 - 26)
