President & CEOof the Education Foundation of Sarasota County
President & CEOof the Education Foundation of Sarasota County
Senior Friendship Centers Alumni Association
Social & Service Club
An annual membership includes theatre outings, guided tours, service projects and socials!
For more information visit our website at www.friendshipcenters.org/alumni-association Or call Georgann Nugent at (941) 556-3216.
ALL are welcome! Join today!
March 20th
5–7 pm
Sarasota Activity Center 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota
Welcome Spring with catered appetizers, & wine mixer with alumni members and new friends.
Love Music? Love Bingo? Then Music Bingo is for you! Our Senior Friendship Centers game night will be full of classic hits.
$25 tickets on sale until March 13 through the Senior Friendship Centers website: www.friendshipcenters.org/special-events
The Venice Campus Alumni Spring Fling is March 25! All are welcome
Editor and Publisher
Louise M. Bruderle
Email: westcoastwoman@comcast.net
Contributing Writer
Carol Darling
Contributing Photographer
Evelyn England
Art Director/Graphic Designer
Kimberly Carmell
Assistant to the Publisher
Mimi Gato
West Coast Woman is published monthly (12 times annually) by LMB Media, Inc., Louise Bruderle, President. All contents of this publication are copyrighted and may not be reproduced. No part may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and artwork are welcome, but return cannot be guaranteed.
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Here are our columns:
■ Out & About: includes fundraisers, concerts, art exhibits, lectures, dance, poetry, shows & performances, theatre, film, seasonal events and more.
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dining out
MARCH 2026 contents departments
Our Differences Annual Exhibit runs to April 19 at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful setting while taking in inspiring artwork.
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 819 Sarasota, FL 34230
email: westcoastwoman@comcast.net
website: www.westcoastwoman.com
just some thoughts
West Coast Woman
This Month’s profile: Jennifer Vigne
Sarasota County has always had a good school system as seen in rankings, graduation rates, etc. Good teachers, good administrators - no doubt. But there’s a third leg to this table and that’s the Education Foundation of Sarasota County. Quietly and steadily for the past 35 years, they have been supporting the school system in a variety of ways.
And the woman who leads the organization is Jennifer Vigne, their President & CEO. The Education Foundation of Sarasota County “clears the path for students to graduate and go further,” according to their website. Clearing the path means supporting students and teachers with resources and relationships to help them succeed. Their goal: prepare each and every student for life. One way they do this is through their Student Success Centers that are in area high schools. There students work individually with Education Foundation’s College Career Advisors. That’s just one of their innovative programs. Jennifer is a fifth-generation Floridian who has been at the helm at the Education Foundation for 10 years. Find out more about Jennifer and what she and her team do in this issue. Learn more about the Foundation at EdFoundationSRQ.org.
Celebrating the ArtsSarasota Opera and The Hermitage - and West Coast Woman
We’re giving you advance notice to make sure you don’t miss this event in April at The Sarasota Opera. They’ll be celebrating the 100th anniversary of their home, the Sarasota Opera House. The building, originally the Edwards Theatre, opened on April 10, 1926, and was the vision of A.B. Edwards, the first mayor of Sarasota.
It survived the Great Depression, hurricanes and vacancy until it reemerged in the 1980s. Several extensive renovations later, it’s a beautiful, state of the art space that opera singer loves to perform in and audiences love as well.
Read the article about their events planned for April and put it on your calendar to attend.
The Hermitage Artist Retreat is also celebrating, but for a different reason. They have received an unprecedented gift of land and property from the Morrison and Steans family. Located less than half a mile from the Hermitage’s existing home on Manasota Key, this property will more than double the Hermitage’s capacity for its artist residency program.
The appraised value of the gift is approximately $12,000,000, making this one of the largest land gifts of its kind to a nonprofit arts organization. The Gulf-to-Bay property spans 6.5 acres of land and includes five main structures. The buildings will provide additional accommodations for the nonprofit’s artist-in-residence program.
This newly gifted property is also the Hermitage Artist Retreat’s first ownership of land, as the nonprofit organization has been a longstanding tenant of Sarasota County in its properties adjacent to Blind Pass Beach. The nonprofit won’t be leaving its original Manasota Key home, where the Hermitage has a lease with Sarasota County.
As you know, the Hermitage was hit hard by hurricanes and is still in the process of rebuilding.
And another reason to celebrate is WCW’s 38th Anniversary this month. Years ago, it was all about print. That’s how we and other publications operated. Now WCW has numerous outlets including Facebook, an e-magazine, e-blast and more. While there are still a myriad of details to manage, it’s actually a lot easier to produce WCW in 2026 than in 1989. Stay with us and enjoy what we create. You’ll always find a profile of a woman in our community in each issue. That’s our hallmark and WCW is still the only outlet in our area that can make that claim. But you’ll also find lots of arts coverage, here and often outside our area, as we curate interesting content just for you. Subscribe to our e-magazine and you’ll have us on your desktop, phone or iPad. Email us at westcoastwoman@ comcast.net
How you can help some kids...
Children First has its third annual “Today a Reader, Tomorrow a Leader” book drive. Spearheaded by advocate Sheila Birnbaum, the agency is seeking donations of new, age-appropriate books for children ages 5 and under. Books collected will be given to children and families served by Children First and shared with local nonprofit and education partners.
“Reading is the doorway that makes all other learning possible. You can’t truly learn if you can’t read at an age-appropriate level, and we ask that you please support our community’s youngest so that they receive the gift of lifelong learning,” says Sheila.
The book drive runs through March 31, and you can get involved in one of two ways: Donate new children’s books by delivering or mailing them to 1723 N. Orange Avenue, Sarasota or, make a monetary donation at www.childrenfirst.net/donate, which will be used to purchase books for children in the agency’s early learning programs.
For information, call (941) 953-3877 or go to childrenfirst.net.
An honor so well deserved
Architecture Sarasota major supporters Anne and Bob Essner received the World Monuments Fund’s inaugural Stewardship Award for Modernist Homes for their care of Paul Rudolph’s Umbrella House.
Designed in 1953 for Philip Hiss, the Umbrella House is one of the most iconic works of the Sarasota School of Architecture and a landmark of climate-responsive modern design. Its survival is a testament not only to the Essners’ leadership, but also to the respect and restraint shown by previous owners, who preserved the home’s architecture and interior finishes without compromising Anne and Bob’s stewardship reflects the highest standards of modern preservation, grounded in research, faithful to original materials, and committed to design intent, including the thoughtful reconstruction of the home’s signature umbrella shade structure.
This international recognition underscores the global significance of Sarasota’s modernist heritage and highlights the importance of long- term, conscientious stewardship. Thank you Anne and Bob!
All Faiths Food Bank’s Walk to End Summer Hunger
All Faiths Food Bank signature event to raise awareness of child hunger is on March 28. It’s their annual kickoff for the 13th annual Campaign Against Summer Hunger at Riverview High School in Sarasota.
For thousands of local school children, the end of the school year signals the end of reliable daily nutrition. In the current school year, approximately 43% – more than 19,000 – of students in Sarasota County and 100% of DeSoto County students are eligible for free and reduced-cost meals at school; when school ends, hunger begins. The Campaign Against Summer Hunger supports efforts to provide food for area children throughout the summer months.
Through the food bank’s partners and summer programs, the organization works to make sure children receive the nutritional assistance they need. Support from investors provides matching funds to inspire greater widespread giving; then, from April 1-May 15, the Campaign accepts community contributions designated toward ending hunger for local children.
The walk at Riverview High School opens at 7:30 a.m. followed by a brief program at 8 a.m. and the walk at 8:30 a.m. Register by March 20 at allfaithsfoodbank.org/walk. For information, call 941-549-8142.
Louise Bruderle | Editor and Publisher | westcoastwoman@comcast.net
We welcome your thoughts and comments on this column and on other columns and features in this issue. You can reach us at westcoastwoman@comcast.net. We’re on the web at www.WestCoastWoman.com.
Jennifer Vigne Image: Louise Bruderle
Louise Bruderle Editor and Publisher
Adeline Morrison with Andy Sandberg
OLLI TALKS
An Afternoon with Carl Hiaasen –Can You Make This Stuff Up? Friday, March 27 Doors open: 3:30 pm Event time: 4-5 pm OLLI Members $100.00 •
call 941-893-2864
Photography: Elena Seibert
Shaleah Adkisson
Joins Sarasota Orchestra’s Annual Outdoor Pops
Amagical atmosphere settles over Sarasota when Outdoor Pops weekend arrives. It’s the time when the community trades the velvet hush of the concert hall for the open air of a Florida late spring to hear Sarasota Orchestra perform chart-toppers on the ballfield at the Orioles’ Ed Smith Stadium
On April 10 and 11, this year’s program— Parrots & Palms: Tropical Rock for 5 O’clock... Somewhere—invites audiences to dive into the sun-drenched sounds of the islands. While the setlist is anchored by the prolific legacies of rock ‘n’ roll’s coolest dudes (think Jimmy Buffett, The Beach Boys, and Bob Marley), one of the evening’s shining stars is a woman named Shaleah Adkisson.
Channeling the “Summer of Love”
Her career also spans a wide range of regional theater excellence, with credits including Avenue Q,
and
Adkisson brings a powerhouse vocal pedigree and a background that aligns perfectly with the tropical rock spirit of this year’s Outdoor Pops. Most notably, she was a featured performer in the Broadway revival and national tour of Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical.
Outside the theatrical world, she has spent years touring with tribute shows like Back to the Garden and August 1969, celebrating the music of legendary women such as Joni Mitchell and Carole King. This history of honoring musical icons makes her the ideal choice to lead a program dedicated to the legends of tropical rock.
The Outdoor Pops Experience
The inclusion of a performer of Adkisson’s caliber reflects Sarasota Orchestra’s commitment to bringing nationally-acclaimed talent to a local setting, whether it’s a program of classical masterworks or your favorite trop-rock hits. Get the sister squad together and raise an icy margarita to the vibe, the breeze, and legendary songs such as “Blue Bayou,” “Brown-Eyed Girl,” “Fins,” “Kokomo,” and more.
As an iconic show that defines the free-spirit era, Hair shares musical DNA with the laid-back, barefoot energy of the 1960s and ‘70s—the very decades that gave rise to the breezy anthems of Jimmy Buffett, the surf-rock harmonies of The Beach Boys, and Bob Marley’s “One Love” ethos. Adkisson’s experience in Hair ensures she is no stranger to music that prioritizes groove, soul, and a sense of community.
Powerful Pipes
Adkisson’s resume is a testament to the versatility required of a modern leading lady. Beyond the rock-and-roll energy of Hair, she is well-known for her role as Joanne in the Off-Broadway revival of the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical Rent. This role requires a commanding presence and an ability to deliver soulful, complex vocals—skills that will translate beautifully to the Outdoor Pops stage.
Attend the Concert
Sarasota Orchestra Presents: Outdoor Pops
Parrots & Palms: Tropical Rock for Five O’clock… Somewhere Friday, April 10 and Saturday, April 11, 7:30 p.m. | Orioles’ Ed Smith Stadium. Tickets available through the Box Office at the Orioles’ Ed Smith Stadium. Call (941) 893-6312 or visit orioles.com/Arts
Beehive: The 60’s Musical,
Ain’t Misbehavin’.
Shaleah Adkisson joins a trio of featured vocalists belting out the hits on Sarasota’s Outdoor Pops concerts in April.
Shaleah Adkisson has appeared in concerts with symphonies across the country, including the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Marin Symphony, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, and The Florida Orchestra.
Sarasota Orchestra’s annual Outdoor Pops concert offers an unconventional way to enjoy a live symphony orchestra performing under the stars, complete with a fireworks display.
out & about
Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota
▼ The Lunch and Listen series has ArcoStrum artists Strauss Shi, violin and Tengyue Zhang, guitar are known for their charisma, virtuosity, and dynamic on-stage chemistry. The duo champions unique concert programming through original transcriptions of classical repertoire, progressive rock, and traditional Chinese instrumental music featuring the erhu and dizi. Their Lunch and Listen concert is March 5, 11:00 a.m. at the Sarasota Yacht Club.
Artist Series Concerts presents Beethoven, Beats and Beyond, a free, family-friendly concert at The Bay Sarasota on March 15 at 6:00 p.m. Celebrated beatbox artist Karim Manning will join a string quartet from Upward Notes to lead the audience on an exploration of beat boxing and spoken word fused with classical music.
This interactive performance is centered around Max Richter’s reimagining of The Four Seasons by Vivaldi and will include environmentally inspired freestyle, audience-driven improvisation, and audience participation. Free admission, open seating (brings chairs or blankets).
Invoke, on March 17, 5:30 p.m. at Plantation Golf and Country Club, closes the Lighter Fare series for the season. The multi-instrumental quartet of Nick Montopoli, Zach Matteson, Karl Mitze, and Geoff Manyin encompasses traditions from across America, including classical, bluegrass, Appalachian fiddle tunes, jazz, and minimalism.
The trademark Soirée series is presented in the music room of the Fischer/Weisenborne residence. Lasting Impressions, on April 5 and 6, features Sarasota Orchestra principal second violinist Michael Turkell; Victor Minke Huls, cello; and Maria Parrini, piano. The delicate beauty of impressionist music forms the heart of this captivating program that includes violin and piano sonatas by Enescu and Fauré, and Ravel’s duo for violin and cello.
Visit ArtistSeriesConcerts.org or call (941) 306-1202
Azara Ballet
▼ They have SEASONS, their season finale that celebrates what Azara Ballet stands for: rewriting ballet culture through body positivity, neurodivergent inclusion, and LGBTQ+ representation on stage. The evening features two world premieres: Four Seasons - A brand-new work by Artistic Director Joshua Stayton, inspired by his personal journey and life’s challenges, reflected through the changing seasons of nature at Riverview PAC on March 20 and 21
The other is The Woman in WhiteA deeply personal new work choreographed by Martin Flowers, loosely inspired by Emily Dickinson and reimagined through a modern lens. This piece explores autism, “otherness,” and queer identity through the powerful language of dance.
Tickets: www.azaraballet.org
Bookstore1 Events
▼ March 23—Best of the Backlist Bookclub discusses A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole. Led by Georgia Court.
• March 26—Mysteries to Die For Bookclub reads John LeCarré’s The Spy Who Came in from the Cold Led by Elsie Souza.
• March 31—Banned Book Club reads The Catcher in the Rye by by J.D. Salinger. Led by Bryn Durgin.
Bookstore1Sarasota 117 S. Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota. 941-365-7900 www.sarasotabooks.com
Contemporary Dance
▼ Sarasota Contemporary Dance + Piazzolla is on March 19-21, 7:30 pm and March 22, 2:00 pm at Cook Theatre at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts. ROMANTICIZING
Argentine Tango composer Astor Pantaleon Piazzolla, renowned harpist Ann Hobson Pilot, and choreographer Leymis Bolaños Wilmott collaborate for the third time for this performancen. SCD brings visual and emotional accompaniment to Pilot’s inspired arrangements of Piazzolla for harp, violin, and bandone on, reflecting the composer’s melodies, a contemporary mix of tango music with jazz and classical influences.
SCD has brought this work back as it was cut short due to covid. Tickets: www.sarasotacontemporarydance.org or call the Box Office at 941-260-8485
At Fogartyville
extraordinary past, and a brand-new 10-minute film titled A Conversation with Clyde and Niki.
▼ Fogartyville has these concerts/ performances:
• March 21—Palaver Strings Since 2014, Grammy-nominated Palaver Strings has made its mark as one of New England’s most innovative chamber ensembles. The ensemble’s Co-Artistic Directors curate artistic programming collaboratively and democratically, rotating project direction and musical leadership. Fogartyville is located at 525 Kumquat Court in Sarasota’s Rosemary District. Box Office: 941-894-6469 or visit www.wslr.org/fogartyville.
Fun Raisers
▼ After a one-year hiatus, Sarasota Bay Watch’s signature fundraiser, Scallopalooza, returns on March 7 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium at Bay Park Conservancy.
The evening features an open bar, chef-driven food stations, entertainment, living dioramas, and a silent auction. Proceeds from the event support year-round efforts to protect Sarasota County’s bays.
Sarasota Bay Watch (SBW) also operates the state’s first underwater aquaculture lease dedicated to restoration aquaculture to raise native hard clams for research and bay restoration, not commercial harvest.
SBW has released more than 1.5 million clams into Sarasota Bay to help filter the water and support healthier habitat.
Tickets: SarasotaBayWatch.org
At the Galleries
▼ Lifeworks in Photography is a retrospective exhibit features 45 large-format, black-and-white photographic prints, spanning over 50 years of Clyde Butcher ’s career.
The collection includes images from 1969 to 2022, capturing his adventures across the USA, Cuba, the Czech Republic, and Spain, as well as intimate portraits of rare natural wonders like the ghost orchid. In addition to the photographs, the exhibit will showcase Clyde’s largest 12×20 camera, artifacts from his
Clyde Butcher ’s work invites viewers to slow down and contemplate the beauty and fragility of the natural world, fostering a deeper appreciation for conservation. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore the world through Clyde Butcher’s lens at the Bishop Museum of Science & Nature in Bradenton, 201 10th Street W., Bradenton. Runs to March 31
▼ “Now You See Us,” an art display by the Petticoat Painters, has been refreshed with all-new artwork. The updated exhibit features 46 new artworks throughout the lobby at City Hall, 1565 First Street.
The Petticoat Painters, an allfemale art group founded in 1953, is one of the oldest continuously exhibiting women’s art groups in the country. The collective was formed at a time when women struggled to find venues to display their art, seeking to showcase the talents of female artists despite the challenges of the time. From their first show, held at a local Sarasota gallery, through today, the Petticoat Painters provide a platform for women to display and be celebrated for their artwork.
The refreshed “Now You See Us” exhibit is free and open for public viewing at City Hall during regular business hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday. For information on the Public Art Program, Visit sarasotafl.gov/PublicArt
▼ Women Contemporary Artists annual exhibit runs to March 13 at Art & Frame of Sarasota’s Gallery Hall, 1055 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Gallery Hours: Monday –Saturday: 10-5 p.m., Sunday, closed, Free Admission.
Women Contemporary Artists (WCA) is a strong local organization of professional women actively engaged in the visual fine arts. WCA’s more than one hundred artists share the mission of providing visibility, encouragement, and inspiration to women artists. In addition to its annual juried exhibition, the WCA provides lectures and demonstrations featuring prominent people in the arts at meetings held from November - May, hosts monthly critiques, and an annual retreat. Visit womencontemporaryartists.com
through April 14, in The Ringling’s Community Gallery, which is always free for visitors.
This exhibition showcases thirtyeight photographs from middle, high, and home-schooling teen artists across the state of Florida.
Westcoast Black Theatre
Troupe has How I Got Over: A Gospel Revue to March 29
Visit westcoast blacktheatre.org
▼ At Art Center Sarasota: • On View: March 5-April 18 with an opening reception on March 5
• Gallery 1 has Herion Park a display of sculptural family portraits built of textiles, discarded or re-purposed objects, life-cast anatomical forms, and organic materials. These forms are made to particularly voice the love-bond she and her sisters shared with her mother. Her sculptures resonate universal issues surrounding the complexities of all love relationships. The work is about the safe world that her mother created for the family through her unconditional love.
• Gallery 2 has “MLK” by James “JRU” R. King, Jr. – Rooted in Community is a group exhibition that honors and highlights the rich contributions of artists from Sarasota’s Newtown and Overtown communities—two historically Black neighborhoods whose cultural and creative voices have shaped the city’s artistic identity. Spanning generations and styles, this exhibition features the work of established and emerging artists whose roots in Newtown and Overtown. These artists have not only documented the cultural evolution of Sarasota but have actively contributed to its growth as a creative city.
• Gallery 3 has Kendra Frorup At Home Anywhere is a body of work rooted in personal experience, cultural memory, and adaptability. The exhibition is an invitation to see the potential in what surrounds us and to recognize that home is not fixed, it is something we carry and continue to create.
Frorup was born and raised in the Bahamas.Artist Statement: My art is a convergence of memory, material, and meaning. Each object I create is an exploration of belonging, transformation, and the layered narratives that form who we are. I remain committed to deepening this inquiry—continuing to explore artistic traditions in Africa and uncovering the shared threads of human experience that unite us across geography and time.
Location: 707 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Info: www.artsarasota.org
▼ The Ringling has Visions of Belonging Student Photography Exhibition . The exhibition is open
Visions of Belonging celebrates the many ways young artists see and experience connection. The exhibition includes photographs that express the feeling of connection to people, places, cultures, communities, or shared experiences. These photographs invite us to pause and reflect on what makes us feel at home in our communities, our cultures, and within ourselves.
Exhibitions at The Ringling’s Community Gallery are always free to visit; visitors can check in at the museum’s Visitor Pavilion upon arrival and ask for a Community Gallery wristband. For additional information and hours, visit ringling.org
▼ At SPAACES: Subterranean Voices: The Ground Beneth, a five-week artist residency and exhibition by Sabrina Small that transforms the gallery into an immersive, hybrid space—part living studio, part evolving installation.
Rooted in themes of identity, transformation, and resistance to digital efficiency, Subterranean Voices explores the tension between outward persona and inner consciousness through hand-stitched and drawn works that celebrate slowness, tactility, and imperfection. Small’s symbolic figures—both monstrous and tender—serve as avatars for deeply personal narratives. Exhibition runs to March 21 SPAACES, 2051 Princeton St, Sarasota. www.spaaces.art/ ▼ Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College of Art and Design (SAM) has these exhibits:
Jillian Mayer: Slumpies to August 19, 2026 . Mayer explores our ever-increasing relationship with technology and the impact device usage has on our bodies through her interactive sculpture series, Slumpies. Blurring the line between fine art and functional objects, Slumpies invites viewers to sit, climb, slump and curl up, using the sculptures much like furniture. In doing so, visitors explore how Mayer’s objects provide support for the various postures we assume while using technology. Lillian Blades: Through the Veil to October 26, 2026. In this engaging exhibition, Blades invites visitors to enter, wander through and lose themselves within an immersive maze of “veils.” These radiant, mixed-media tapestries suspended from the ceiling shimmer with reflective surfaces, activating the space with bouncing light and color. Densely layered and immense in scale, Blade’s works combine handcrafted and found objects—picture frames, found imagery, wood, acrylic, and glass—wired together into a seismic and mesmerizing display. Art Deco: The Golden Age of Illustration runs to March 29, 2026. SAM shines a spotlight on Art Deco as the art form celebrates its centennial anniversary. Art Deco: The Golden Age of Illustration showcases 70 rare posters from the Crouse Collection created by some of the world’s earliest, master graphic designers during the 1920s and 1930s.
Featuring subjects that range from automobiles, airlines, and ocean liners to drinks and tobacco, the works represented in Art Deco: The Golden
Age of Illustration celebrate modernity, dynamism, and luxury—the dreams and desires of the turbulent early 20th-century.
In addition to the iconic posters, Art Deco: The Golden Age of Illustration conjures the era’s design aesthetic with selected sculptural works and cocktail shakers from the Crouse collection and Art Deco furniture pieces on loan from the Wolfsonian Museum at Florida International University in Miami.
Featured poster designers include Lester Beall, Leonetto Cappiello, Jean Carlu, A. M. Cassandre, Paul Colin, Austin Cooper, Jules Courvoisier, Edward McKnight Kauffer, Charles Loupot, Leo Marfurt, Gert Sellheim, Federico Seneca and Roger de Valerio.
Selina Román: Abstract Corpulence to March 29, 2026. New works by Román blend photography, abstraction, and self-portraiture to explore themes of beauty and the politics of size in Selina Román: Abstract Corpulence.
Roman’s photographs feature tightly cropped images of the artist’s own body, boldly occupying the full composition and extending past the boundaries of each frame. Pastel bodysuits and tights transform the artist’s flesh into new, gently rolling landscapes as amorphous shapes converge to create modernist-inspired compositions. At this scale, Roman’s tightly cropped portrayals of stomachs, thighs and hips become formal studies of line, shape and color, asking viewers to consider the human form from a point of true abstraction.
▼ Sarasota Orchestra’s Harmony Gallery ’s next artist is Michael Lonier – “who I am is what I see: recent diptychs” and runs to March 30 Reception March 11, 5-6:30pm. Lonier is originally from Ohio and spent 35 years as a technology executive in the magazine publishing industry in New York. He taught digital photography at FIT-SUNY and Ramapo College, NJ for ten years, and has had numerous one-person and group shows of his photographs at the University of the Arts (Philadelphia), Andover Gallery (MA), Center for Modern Art (Micanopy FL), RISD (RI), Slocumb Gallery (ETSU), Works on Paper (FIT-SUNY), Center for Contemporary Art (Cincinnati) and others. He holds a BFA in photography from the University of Notre Dame and an MFA in photography from the University of Florida where he was a graduate assistant to Jerry Uelsmann and Todd Walker.
The Harmony Gallery is located at 709 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.
▼ The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime presents REFLECTIONS: A Community Art Exhibition, a collaborative show featuring artists from The Bazaar and Creative Liberties . The exhibit explores the theme of reflection through a wide range of mediums, including painting, photography, mixed media, and printmaking.
REFLECTIONS highlights the diverse perspectives of local artists, inviting viewers to consider reflection as both a visual and personal experience. From natural landscapes and abstract forms to textured mixed media and photographic works, the exhibition celebrates creativity, connection, and artistic exchange within Sarasota’s vibrant arts community. Featured artists include Steve Schwartz, Barbara Gerdeman, Yvonne Krystman, Reid Gerletti, Diane Bunker, Henry Martin, Lee Oberlander, Teresa Stone (The Gypsy Gardener), and Karen Chandler Fine Art
REFLECTIONS runs through March at The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime. The Bazaar is open Thursday - Saturday 10-3 at 821 Apricot Ave in Sarasota. Info: www.Bazaaronapricotandlime.com
▼ Arts Advocates has these events in March.
• Talkback Tuesday with Emmy-nominated producer Ronnique Hawkins is on March 10; a luncheon featuring guest speaker Thayer Greenberg from The Sarasota Players on March 19; a behind-the-scenes tour of the Van Wezel; and an exhibit by Arts Advocates member artist Suzanne Havens. Register at ArtsAdvocates.org
• The Arts Advocates Gallery, located in the Crossings at Siesta Key mall, 3501 S. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, hosts monthly exhibits by member artists. Suzanne Havens’ Painting: Thesis, Antithesis, and Synthesis will be on exhibit March 7-28 , Saturdays only from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Havens flows from painting visual subjects, abstractions of feelings, and visual references that are evident but altered from nature. Admission is free; registration is not required.
• The Behind the Curtain: Exploring the Van Wezel from the Art to the Stage tour takes place on March 9. The art in the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall was created by noted Florida artists and is part of the Arts Advocates collection.
A docent leads a tour of the paintings and sculptures including those by Sarasota Art Colony artists Robert Chase, William Hartman, Eugene White, Ben Stahl, Thornton Utz, Frank Colson, and others. Participants then step onto the stage where a Van Wezel guide shares stories and anecdotes about the colorful world of show business. Tickets can be purchased at the Van Wezel box office or by calling (941) 263-6799
• The March 10 Talkback Tuesday, Roots and Radiance: Learning Their History, features Ronnique Hawkins, a visionary artist, activist, and educator whose life’s work bridges creativity, justice, and youth empowerment. Producer of the Emmy-nominated “The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till,” Hawkins will share her story, her mission, and her unwavering belief in the transformative power of history, creativity, and compassion.
• Arts Advocates’ March 19 luncheon topic is The Sarasota Play-
ers with Thayer Greenberg , managing artistic director. The Sarasota Players launched the careers of many performers who went on to stardom, including Academy Award nominee Montgomery Clift, actress Jayne Meadows, and comedian Paul Reubens (Pee-wee Herman). Greenberg will discuss the company’s season, their planned move to the Payne Park Auditorium, and more, and attendees will be treated to songs from “Les Misérables” performed by cast members.
The Arts Advocates’ collection of Sarasota Art Colony and Florida Highwaymen works is on permanent display in the Arts Advocates Gallery, which is open every Saturday from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Admission is free. To register, visit ArtsAdvocates.org
▼ Art Ovation Hotel is currently showing six sculptures in the main lobby until May 2026. They’re located at 1255 N Palm Ave., Sarasota. Visit www.art.artovationhotel.com
• On exhibit: PICARDO running through May. He’s an Afro-Caribbean artist whose vibrant murals and live painting performances breathe life into walls and public spaces. For over two decades, his art has woven together tradition and modernity, transforming places like the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum and Miami’s cultural scene into dynamic stories of identity and community.
• THE FLAG runs to May. The American flag occupies a unique position in the national consciousness— simultaneously universal and deeply personal. This exhibition brings together works by nine artists who engage with this iconic symbol through diverse visual languages and material approaches, revealing the multifaceted ways contemporary Americans relate to their flag.
• MIMI LEONE runs to May. Miyoun (Mimi) is a Korean-born painter whose work seeks beauty beyond the surface—beauty that heals, uplifts, and connects. Drawing from both Asian and Western traditions, her visual language blends the stillness and simplicity of Eastern art with the emotional freedom and boldness of the West. She aims to create pieces that bypass intellect and speak directly to the soul, offering moments of peace, clarity, and quiet reflection.
• JOHN MCCASKILL runs to May McCaskill is a celebrated mixed-media artist and master printmaker based in St. Pete Beach, Florida. Blending traditional printmaking
with painting and contemporary design, his work reflects a lifelong dedication to creative exploration and craftsmanship. His pieces, often inspired by travel and nature, are held in notable public and private collections.
• PAMELA OLIN runs to May. Olin transforms industrial materials like steel into deeply emotional and contemplative sculptures. With over 30 years of experience, she explores the relationship between raw material, human emotion, and craftsmanship, creating works that invite viewers to engage in a delicate dialogue between light and shadow, strength and vulnerability. Her art is a tactile experience that awakens the senses and stirs reflection.
The
PerformingGlenridgeArts Center
▼ Upcoming events:
• March 12: Badlands: Bruce Springsteen Tribute Alex Shillo, a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter, brings the spirit of Bruce Springsteen to life with his band Badlands—while also sharing a few original songs of his own.
• March 22: Sarasota Earlye Musicke Consort presents a program spanning centuries of musical tradition. Known for their mastery of recorders and viols, the ensemble offers a unique journey from the 14th century to the present, showcasing the evolution of musical styles and the character of historical instruments.
• March 25: Divas of SoulGet is a concert led by award-winning vocalist CeCe Teneal. This tribute to legends like Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner, Whitney Houston, and more spans five decades of soul, pop, disco, and Broadway hits.
• April 11: How Sweet it Is with Steve Leslie Grammy Award-winning songwriter Steve Leslie (Kenny Rogers, George Strait, Darius Rucker) brings the music of James Taylor to life in this heartfelt and authentic concert experience. Visit www.gpactix.com
At The Hermitage
▼ The Hermitage Artist Retreat has a new program on the Hermitage Beach featuring Tony Award nominee, Pulitzer Prize finalist, and Hermitage Fellow Anna Deavere Smith, alongside Olivier Award nominee and Hermitage Major Theater
Award finalist Beth Steel Smith is a celebrated writer and performer recognized by millions for her memorable roles on stage and screen, and Steel is the UK-based author of the acclaimed West End play Till the Stars Come Down. On Thursday, March 19 at 6:30pm, these two playwrights will offer their unique perspectives into playwriting and share excerpts of their original work in this sunset program on the Hermitage Beach.
Tickets: HermitageArtistRetreat.org
Key Chorale
▼ March 13-15 marks the 15th year of “Cirque des Voix”, Circus of the Voices presented with the Circus Arts Conservatory and featuring The Venice Symphony. This year’s show is titled “Superheroes vs Supervillains.” Dust off your cape and connect with your inner superhero as we take you on a thrilling journey into the world of heroes, villains and extraordinary feats. Witness an unforgettable fusion of the musical and circus arts, featuring music from your favorite characters —all under the Big Top at Nathan Benderson Park.
On March 29, “GenSRQ – A Youth Celebration,” brings together the Circus Arts Conservatory and Key Chorale in a vibrant collaboration showcasing many of the best youth programs in our county. More than 200 young singers, joined by Sailor Circus students and performers from top local arts training programs, will fill the Sailor Circus arena. Witness how arts and cultural organizations uplift and inspire more than 300 exceptional student artists. Visit www.keychorale.org or call (941) 552-8768
La Musica
▼ March 2: Wind Fest: An exuberant showcase for wind instruments featuring works by Vivaldi, Mozart, Strauss, Klughardt, and Emmanuel— performed by a stellar wind ensemble from Lincoln Center, including Michael Stephen Brown, piano; Tara Helen O’Connor, flute; Juri Vallentin, oboe; David Shifrin, clarinet; Peter Kolkay, bassoon; April 6: La Musica Surprises: With Mozart’s sparkling “Flute Quartet in D Major,” Haydn’s mischievous “Surprise” Symphony, Brahms’ spirited “Hungarian Dances” (for piano, four hands), and Mendelssohn’s buoyant “Sextet in D Major,” this program delivers pure musical charm—with a few surprises along the way. At Riverview Performing Arts Center..
Tickets: www.lamusica.org
Perlman Suncoast
▼ PMP Alumni Events presents Season Events Include: Trio Gaia: “Mythic Visions” on March 12 at First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak Street, Sarasota. Trio Gaia immerses audiences in works that explore the interplay between impressionistic sound worlds and mythological imagery performing Szymanowski’s Mythes, Charlotte Sohy’s Piano Trio and Ravel’s Piano Trio in A minor, a defining example of French Impressionism. Tickets are $40, general admission; $50 VIP seating and are available at PMPSuncoast.org
Tickets: PMPsuncoast.org
The Pops Orchestra
▼ They have Elton on these dates:
• March 21 – 3:00 p.m., SCF Neel Performing Arts Center
• March 22 – 3:00 p.m., Riverview
happening this month
BAM!Fest Returns to the Bradenton Riverwalk
with a Full Day of Art, Music, and Hands-On Experiences
On Saturday, March 28, the Bradenton Riverwalk will come alive with color, creativity, and community energy as BAM!Fest (Bradenton Art & Music Festival) returns for its second year. Presented by Realize Bradenton, the free, all-ages event runs from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and invites residents and visitors to experience a mile-long celebration of local art, music, and culture along one of the city’s most scenic waterfront spaces. Throughout the day, the Riverwalk will transform into an interactive creative corridor featuring live music across multiple stages, large-scale art created in real time, pop-up performances, interactive experiences, and opportunities to connect with
a wide range of styles and local talent. Scheduled acts include The Divebombers, the School of Rock House Band, St. Pete Mountain Boys, Luna and the Warriors, Champs Jaxon Band, Sycamore Shade, and Luke Andrews Music. Additional student showcases and short-form performances will take place throughout the day at the Mosaic Amphitheater and other festival locations.
local artists, makers, and performers. The festival highlights the depth of creative talent throughout the region while offering a welcoming environment for families, art lovers, and curious visitors alike.
“BAM!Fest showcases the creative spirit that defines Bradenton,” said Karen Corbin, Executive Director of Realize Bradenton. “It brings people together to celebrate local talent while experiencing the energy, diversity, and collaboration that make our community unique.”
One of the festival’s most anticipated attractions is the Art Tower, where professional artists will create large-scale paintings throughout the day. Visitors can watch each piece evolve from blank canvas to finished work while also contributing to a community mural that captures the shared creativity of the event. Featured artists include Cory Wright, Corine Finnie, Luke Vest, Truman Adams, Andrew Viera, Laura Spencer, Matt McAllister, Reen Troy, Darryl Goldman, Maggie Bosco, Hilary Frambes, and Laura Thomas.
There will be live music across the Riverwalk, with performances representing
Families will find numerous activities designed for younger attendees, including face painting, free art projects, circus arts demonstrations, interactive performances, and hands-on learning experiences. At the Eco Park area on the Great Lawn, guests can explore exhibits focused on wildlife conservation, oyster reef restoration, and marine ecosystems, including aquarium touch tanks and educational displays about local environmental efforts.
offer space to relax, enjoy food vendors, listen to live beach music, and watch a large-scale sandcastle take shape throughout the day.
Visitors can also explore Discovery Lane, where Bat City Comic Professionals will showcase the dynamic world of comic art and illustration. In addition to providing entertainment, BAM!Fest supports the local creative economy by giving artists, performers, and small businesses a platform to connect directly with the community. The event
reflects Bradenton’s ongoing commitment to arts-driven placemaking and its reputation as a vibrant destination for culture and creativity.
The Atomic Bazaar Market will feature local artists and makers offering original artwork, handcrafted goods, and one-of-akind pieces available for purchase. Nearby, Rossi Park and the Tiki Beach area will
Admission to BAM!Fest is free, and attendees are encouraged to bring family and friends to enjoy a full day of art, music, and community connection along the Riverwalk. For event updates and additional details, follow Realize Bradenton on social media or visit RealizeBradenton.com
out and about continued
Performing Arts Center
• March 23 – 7:30 p.m., SCF Neel Performing Arts Center
• Close out the season with Greg Bickley as Rocket Man in this spectacular Elton John tribute, complete with flamboyant costumes and all your favorite hits.
• On March 29 they have “Coming Home: A Tribute to John Denver” at SCF Neel Performing Arts Center. Tom Becker, former member of the legendary folk group, The New Christy Minstrels, embodies the warmth and humor of one of America’s best-loved songwriters.
Tickets: www.thepopsorchestra.org
At The Ringling
▼ The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art has:
Juana Romani: Forgotten No More runs to May 31, 2026. This small exhibition, drawn from The Ringling’s permanent collections, highlights the newly acquired painting by Juana Romani, Woman on a Red Background, and situates it within a group of closely related works from the museum’s collection of late-nineteenth-century French art.
Ancestral Edge: Abstraction and Symbolism in the Works of Nine Native American Women Artists, curated by Ola Wlusek, Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art brings together works by nine contemporary Native American artists making significant contributions to the field of abstraction, including Teresa Baker (Mandan/Hidatsa), Natalie Ball(Klamath/Modoc), Kiana Bell(Seminole), Elisa Harkins (Cherokee/Muscogee [Creek]), Erica Lord (Iñupiaq/Athabascan), Sarah Sense (Chitimacha/Choctaw), Sara Siestreem (Hanis Coos), Marie Watt (Seneca/German-Scot) and Dyani White Hawk (SiÄáŋǧu Lakota). Ancestral Edge will be on view in the Keith D. Monda Gallery for Contemporary Art in the Museum of Art to April 12, 2026
Tickets: ringling.org The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota.
The Sarasota Ballet
▼ PROGRAM SIX Still Life’ at the Penguin Café, choreographed by Sir David Bintley, features the original music of Simon Jeffes and his Penguin Café Orchestra.
The point of the ballet is a cautionary tale about our environment at risk and our criminal indifference to its survival, yet served up with wit and imagination, without preachiness, as entertainment by the doomed species themselves. Bintley draws his audience’s attention to the deliberate pun of “still life,” referencing both the classical painting genre and the hope of “yet living.”
To honor the 250th anniversary of the United States of America , the second half of Program Six will showcase George Balanchine’s celebratory Stars & Stripes to the iconic music of John Philip Sousa. Choreographed as a tribute to his own deep appreciation for the U.S.A., Balanchine infused classical ballet with American culture and themes to foster a work that transcends his unmistakable musicality and celebrates the greatness of the country that welcomed him upon arrival and commended his work.
Featuring live music by the Sarasota Orchestra, Life & Liberty is on March 27-28 at the Van Wezel. Info: www.sarasotaballet.org
The Sarasota Concert Association
▼ Their Great Performers Series has pianist Alexander Malofeev at Riverview Performing Arts Center on March 10. The program will include works by Sibelius, Grieg, Prokofiev, Scriabin, and Stravinsky. The season concludes with a performance by Joshua Bell and the Academy of St Martin in the Fields on March 15 at Van Wezel. The program features Saint-Saëns’ Violin Concerto No. 3 and Dvorˇák’s Symphony No. 8. www.scasarasota.org or call 941-966-6161
The Sarasota Concert Association Music Matinee Series features free concerts by regional artists. Music Matinee concerts are at a new location: St. Andrew United Church of Christ, 6908 Beneva Road, Sarasota. On March 25, Sarasota Opera Studio Artists will perform a selection of arias and duets that will be presented in their upcoming season. The season ends on April 15 with a performance by Hot Club SRQ. The Gypsy Jazz ensemble will perform a mix of Gypsy Jazz, Latin, BeBop, modern jazz, and classic American standards. Admission is free, but reservations are required. Register at www.scasarasota.org
Sarasota Orchestra
▼ Coming up at Sarasota Orchestra :
The Masterworks series has Beethoven’s Fifth on March 19 at Neel PAC and March 20-22 at the Van Wezel featuring Katharina Wincor, conductor and Zlatomir Fung, cello performing Brahms – Academic Festival Overture; Dvorˇák – Cello Concerto and Beethoven – Symphony No. 5
The Pops series performances take place at the Van Wezel. Next up: When the Saints Go Marching In – March 13-14 with Byron Stripling, conductor and Crystal Monee Hall, vocals.
Great Escapes performances take place at Holley Hall. Next up: Dance the Night Away – March 4-8
Rei Hotoda, conductor
The Chamber Soirées Chamber
Soirées performances take place at Holley Hall. Mozart in March on March 15 performing Dohnányi –Serenade for string trio; Jongen - Deux pièces en trio for flute, cello and harp. Mozart - Quintet for Piano and Winds
Then in April, Outdoor Pops returns to Ed Smith Stadium with Tropical Rock for Five O’Clock … Somewhere, a high-energy tribute to Jimmy Buffet and other iconic tropical artists. Outdoor Pops – Tropical Rock for Five O’Clock … Somewhere on April 10-11
It’s a celebration of legendary tropical music songs of Jimmy Buffet, Bob Marley and more, performed live at Orioles’ Ed Smith Stadium For information, visit www.sarasota orchestra.org
At Selby Gardens
▼ Robert Louis Stevenson: A Child’s Garden of Verses is on view to August 30, 2026 at the Historic Spanish Point campus. The exhibit celebrates childhood and the imagination of youth through the words and images of A Child’s Garden of Verses, the beloved book of poetry for children by the celebrated Scottish writer, Robert Louis Stevenson. The exhibition has photographs of pages from a vintage edition of the book, combining Stevenson’s poetry with illustrations by the notable American artist, Alexander Dobkin Accompanying the photographs are
simple interactives that draw their inspiration from Stevenson’s poems and enhance the visitor experience. An audio element will enable visitors to hear the poems read by Selby Gardens’ artist-in-residence, Patti Smith
Lynn Goldsmith and Patti Smith: Flowers and Friendship runs to September 13, 2026 at the Downtown Sarasota campus. The exhibit celebrates the creative collaboration between two longtime friends, photographer Lynn Goldsmith and singer-songwriter Patti Smith, who is Selby Gardens’ artist in residence.
The exhibition will feature Goldsmith’s photographs of Smith, past and present, in the Richard and Ellen Sandor Museum of Botany & the Arts. The images will offer a portrait of an iconic artist over the course of her career. Supplementing the photographs in the museum will be a selection of Goldsmith’s art photographs of flowers set in the gardens of the Downtown Sarasota campus.
Alexander Calder: The Nature of Movement is on view to May 31 at the Downtown Sarasota campus.
The Calder exhibition highlights the artist’s use of abstract forms rooted in nature and emphasize his interest in science and engineering. The exhibition also explores Calder’s enchantment with the circus, stemming from his studies of performers and animals at the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus in 1925. Downtown Sarasota Campus, 1534 Mound Street Sarasota. Info: 941-366-5731
Historic Spanish Point Campus, 401 North Tamiami Trail, Osprey. Info: 941-366-5731
Special Events
▼ The Atomic Bazaar at BAM! Takes place on March 28, 11am to 7pm. The Bradenton Art and Music Festival, BAM!Fest, has become Realize Bradenton’s signature annual event bringing Art and Music to the Bradenton Riverwalk. This will be a loud, bold, bright, interactive, immersive fun experience for all of the people in the Bradenton area and beyond. There will be multiple live music and performance arts
The Sarasota Concert Association has Joshua Bell and the Academy of St Martin in the Fields on March 15 www.scasarasota.org
(ADT) Program. Proceeds from Disco Bingo will help participants build life skills, strengthen independence, and deepen their sense of community.
To get involved, contact Alexandra at atroisi@lovelandcenter.org
The Humane Society of Manatee County (HSMC) has its 19th annuPaws in Motion Walk-a-thon on March 14 bringing together families, dogs, and animal lovers for a morning of fun and fundraising.
The event takes place rain or shine from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Bradenton Riverwalk Pavilion at Rossi Park (452 3rd Avenue West). On-site registration opens at 9:00 a.m., with the 1.5-mile walk beginning at 10:00 a.m.
After the walk, enjoy music, food trucks, raffle prizes, family-friendly activities, and the Vendor Village, featuring local businesses and nonprofit organizations offering pet-related products, services, and educational resources. HSMC will also bring a select group of adoptable dogs for attendees interested in adoption. Registration is encouraged at www.humanemanatee.org
stages, as well as loads of live art and community art activities. There will be curated food, drinks, and market vendors. BAM!Fest will activate key locations along the Riverwalk providing entertainment and interaction along the way. A full day of continuous and scheduled events will span the mile stretch of the Riverwalk, from the Green Bridge to the DeSoto Bridge. Be on the lookout for the Stilt Walkers, Jugglers, Unicyclist and more who will guide you along the Riverwalk to experience all that BAM!Fest has to offer.
More info on BAM!Fest at FBwww.facebook.com/events Realize Bradenton FB - https://www. facebook.com/RealizeBradenton Realize Bradenton Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realizebradenton/
▼ The 11th Annual Gardens In Paradise Tour of Private Gardens is on March 21, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Gardens in Paradise is unique opportunity to visit five private tropical gardens. Gather ideas and inspiration as you visit paradise. https://sarasota gardenclub.org/
▼ Join Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources 8-9:30 a.m. Wednesdays at Siesta Beach, 948 Beach Road in Sarasota or 8-9:30 a.m. Thursdays at Nokomis Beach, 100 Casey Key Road in Nokomis from through March 26 for self-guided walks along Sarasota County’s award-winning beaches. Participants will register for the event on-site in front of the Beach Ambassador kiosk at Siesta Beach or in front of the Plaza Room at Nokomis Beach. To learn more about Sunrise Beach Walks and other Sarasota County events and activities, visit SarasotaCountyParks.com
▼ Loveland Center Bradenton has its Disco Bingo event on March 30, 6 p.m., at Gold Coast Eagle Distributors. The evening offers music, lite bites, soft drinks and adult beverages, bingo, prizes, and raffles, all in support of individuals in our community with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) who attend Loveland’s Bradenton Adult Day Training
University Park Country Club’s 26th Annual Art in the Park March 14–15 Open to the public, Art in the Park, one of the longest-running fine art exhibits and sales in the Sarasota/Bradenton region. It will showcase more than 60 professional and non-professional artists and over 150 works of art. Visitors will enjoy an exceptional variety of mediums, including large and small-scale paintings, mixed media, photography, sculpture, prints, and note cards. Most pieces will be available for purchase. This is a juried art show with cash prizes; this year’s scheduled judges include Maria Lyle, Judy Lyons, and Janet Mishner. Attendees will also have the opportunity to vote for their favorite piece to determine the coveted People’s Choice Award. This year’s exhibition will take place indoors in the Lakeside Room from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Free admission and parking. Visit www.artintheparkupcc.com
▼ AGAMI has Market Nights in the Holmes Beach shopping center at 5414 Marina Drive. Light refreshments will be available. Many AGAMI members with art on display in the gallery. The next Market Night dates: March 13, 5-7 pm and April 10, 5-7 pm
The Artists’ Guild of Anna Maria Island Gallery is at 5414 Marina Drive, Holmes Beach.
▼ Uncover the daily life, architectural detail, and lasting legacy of the Ringlings and Sarasota in this guided experience through Ca’ d’Zan . This tour includes the primary rooms on the first floor and select spaces on the 2nd and 3rd floors of The Ringling’s 1920’s waterfront mansion, along with a visit to the Belvedere Tower (weather permitting), which offers one of the best views in Sarasota.
From the bustling kitchen staff preparing meals to the guests discovering the playroom, each space has its own story. Guides will share how the house functioned during the Ringlings’ time in residence—highlighting its design, social atmosphere, and the role it played in shaping Sarasota’s cultural identity.
Though the mansion still shows visible effects from hurricane damage sustained in 2024, this tour offers a rare opportunity to experience Ca’
out and about continued
d’Zan during an ongoing period of care and stewardship. Tour routes may shift as ongoing work continues at the house. Ticket includes access to the Bayfront Gardens for the day. Museum Admission is not included. Tour is 60-70 minutes long. Tickets: www.ringling.org
Theatre
▼ The Sarasota Players has Arthur Miller’s The Crucible running March 25-April 5. It’s a gripping, cautionary tale of mass hysteria and the power of speaking truth to fear—proving that some voices, no matter how persecuted, cannot be silenced. The Sarasota Players: www.theplayers.org
▼ Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe has “How I Got Over: A Gospel Revue.” This show celebrates the music of singers like Mahalia Jackson, Aretha Franklin, Mighty Clouds of Joy, The Staple Singers, James Cleveland, and other gospel greats. It features traditional songs like “Travelin’ Shoes,” “Amazing Grace” and “His Eye Is On The Sparrow” combined with more upbeat, popular tunes such as “Elijah Rock,” “Oh Happy Day,” and “When The Saints Go Marching In.” Created, adapted and directed by Nate Jacobs. Runs to March 29
Held at: The Donelly Theatre at WBTT, 1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota. Visit: westcoastblacktheatre.org
▼ At Urbanite Theatre: The Apiary runs March 20-April 19. It’s 22 years into the future, and honeybees are nearly extinct, except for those kept alive in labs. When a shocking event leads to an even more shocking boost in bee populations, an overqualified new lab assistant, Zora, and her talkative co-worker Pilar must decide just how far they’ll go to keep the population growing... and the whole thing under wraps from their overstressed, budget-conscious supervisor, Gwen. Named a New York Times Critic’s Pick, this “bright, strange and mesmerizing marvel” is a provocative comedy about sacrifice and the ethics of discovery, penned by 2022 Modern Works Festival finalist Kate Douglas. www.urbanitetheatre.com/season
▼ The Asolo has Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Crack’d runs to March 14 One of the Queen of Mystery’s most celebrated novels finally makes it to the stage in this new adaptation by Rachel Wagstaff.
The Unfriend runs to March 22 in the Mertz Theatre. After twenty years of marriage, Peter and Debbie are enjoying a cruise and a break from their annoying teenagers, when they meet an eagerly friendly, but perhaps dangerous, fellow passenger named Elsa. Before you know it, she’s taken up residence in their suburban home. Visit AsoloRep.org
▼ Venice Theatre, Inc., has these shows in the Raymond Center.
• To March 8—The Cake. When a beloved family friend asks for a wedding cake—only it’s for a same-sex marriage—Della, a devout Southern baker, must examine her long-held beliefs. Held in the Pinkerton Theatre at Venice Theatre, 140 Tampa Ave. W., Venice.
• In the Raymond Center they have Annie running to April 4; The Silver Foxes on March 11-16 and How I Learned to Drive March 20-April 4 on Stage 2. Tickets: VeniceTheatre.org
▼ Florida Studio Theatre (FST)
Uncover the daily life of the Ringlings and Sarasota in a tour through Ca’ d’Zan
Tickets: www.ringling.org
has a limited return engagement of Eisenhower: This Piece of Ground, the acclaimed solo drama by Richard Hellesen exploring leadership, legacy, and responsibility. By popular audience demand, the production will return to FST’s Bowne’s Lab for a special encore engagement, playing March 11-22 with an official reopening on March 13, 2026 History remembers the general. This play reveals the man. Eisenhower: This Piece of Ground offers an intimate and deeply human portrait of Dwight D. Eisenhower, reflecting on leadership, sacrifice, and the quiet moral courage required to put service before self. Through candid reflection and moments of surprising humor, the play invites audiences inside the private thoughts of one of America’s most steady hands during turbulent times. Appearing in the role of Dwight D. Eisenhower is David Sitler, who returns to FST for this engagement. Sitler is thrilled to be back, having previously appeared at FST in the oneman show The Things They Carried, as well as The Exonerated, and In the Belly of the Beast. His career spans Broadway, national tours, and regional stages from coast to coast, with roles ranging from Atticus Finch to Scrooge.
• In FST’s Court cabaret they have Feeling Good, an original revue created by Rebecca Hopkins and Richard Hopkins for a limited engagement. Featuring hits from Michael Bublé to Bette Midler, this stylish show celebrates the velvetvoiced singers making waves today along with the greats who inspired them. in FST’s Keating Theatre.
• From Billy Joel to Alicia Keys, from Ray Charles to Freddie Mercury, Three Pianos celebrates piano legends. Enjoy favorites like “Crocodile Rock,” “Just the Way You Are,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “I’m Still Standing,” and “Beautiful.” Runs through March 29 in FST’s Goldstein Cabaret.
• Following is The Blue-Sky Boys, a creative comedy by Deborah Brevoort in the Gompertz Theatre. This two-act play dives into the minds of the maverick engineers who stopped at nothing to put a man on the moon. The Blue-Sky Boys explores the men behind one of humanity’s greatest achievements, reminding us that the sky isn’t the limit: it’s just the beginning. This
whimsical, creative, and deeply human comedy has been extended through March 15
• Making its Florida premiere is Grandma Gatewood Took a Walk by Catherine Bush, which starts February 4. In her golden years, Emma “Grandma” Gatewood called her family and said she was “going for a walk.” Conveniently, she forgot to mention her walk was over 2,000 miles and passed 14 states. She became the first woman to hike the newly formed Appalachian Trail – alone.
• A Night with Janis Joplin, with music and lyrics by Janis Joplin and book by Randy Johnson, is on March 11
• FST concludes its 2025-26 Winter Cabaret Season with One Hit Wonders, an original revue created by Richard Hopkins and Rebecca Hopkins, with musical arrangements by Jim Prosser. Quirky, charming, and packed with guilty pleasures, this cabaret proves that sometimes one hit is all you need., with performances through June 21 in FST’s Court Cabaret.
Experience a toe-tapping celebration of unforgettable songs that lit up the charts and became part of our lives. From the epic storytelling of “American Pie” to the carefree whistle of “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” this revue shines a light on the artists who captured lightning in a bottle and left a lasting mark on popular culture. For more information, visit FloridaStudioTheatre.org or call (941) 366-9000
▼ At Manatee Performing Art Center:
• The Cemetery Club runs to March 8. Heartfelt, humorous, and deeply human, The Cemetery Club invites you into the lives of three lifelong friends navigating love, loss, and life after saying goodbye.
• Bright Star runs March 5-15. From Grammy Award winners Steve Martin and Edie Brickell comes Bright Star —a sweeping, bluegrass-infused musical filled with heart, healing, and the beauty of second chances. Set against the backdrop of the American South, this uplifting story follows Alice Murphy, a literary editor whose encounter with a young soldier returning from World War II stirs memories of a secret from her past… and sets her on a journey of redemption.
What makes this production truly shine is our extraordinary cast of volunteer performers, who give their time and soul to bring this deeply personal story to life. Your ticket supports their dedication and your applause gives meaning to their work—reminding every performer on stage that their story matters.
• Paddy O’Furniture: An Irish Music Celebration is on March 10. This high-energy Irish band from Tampa Bay blends traditional Irish folk tunes with pub-style singalongs and crowd favorites that will have you clapping, dancing, and singing all night long.
From classics like Whiskey in the Jar and The Wild Rover to lively reels and jigs, Paddy O’Furniture delivers a family-friendly, feel-good show that captures the heart and soul of Ireland—with a side of cheeky humor and irresistible rhythm.
• ABBA Euphoria is on March 28
This tribute concert is enhanced by a full length on-screen media show.
The tour spans across Nevada, Florida, Texas, Colorado, Utah and even Canada! Prepare to sing your heart out at this interactive concert with ABBA’s timeless hits like “Dancing Queen,” “The Winner Takes it All,” “Mamma Mia,” “SOS,” “Waterloo,” “Super Trouper,” and so many more.
• Totally Tom Petty is on April 4 and pays tribute to the iconic rock legend, Tom Petty, it’s led by Phil Dunget, who embodies the spirit of Tom Petty and who has an uncanny likeness. With over 85 million records sold, they bring to life hits like Freefallin, You Wreck Me, Refugee, Runnin Down a Dream, and American Girl, plus so many more! MPAC is located at 502 Third Avenue, West, Bradenton. www.manatee performingartscenter.com
At the Van Wezel
▼ Mandy Patinkin In Concert –Jukebox scheduled for March 29 has been canceled . Mandy has been cast as the chief Norse god Odin in Prime Video’s upcoming series God Of War based on the PlayStation video game God of War: Ragnarok. The project begins filming early spring causing unexpected conflicts with his concert.
• March 8—Stayin’ Alive – A Bee Gees Tribute
• March 10—Get the Led Out
• March 12 —Doo Wop Project: Echoes of the Street
• March 31-April 4—A Beautiful Noise
• March 25—Neil Berg’s 116 Years of Broadway (March 25)
• April 9—Neil Berg’s newest show
100 Years of Hollywood
• April 22—The Naked Magicians
• May 2—Jerry Seinfeld
• June 2—Vince Gill
• The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA, originally scheduled for March 18 has been moved to October 18, 2026. Tickets at VanWezel.org , by calling the box office at 941-263-6799
Venice Symphony
▼ March 7—Wycliffe Gordon & Venice Symphony Big Band. Internationally acclaimed trombonist Wycliffe Gordon joins The Venice Symphony Big Band for a special performance on March 7. Known for his powerful sound, deep roots in jazz tradition, and dynamic stage presence, Gordon has performed with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, the Wynton Marsalis Septet, and leading ensembles worldwide.
• March 13-15—Cirque des Voix with The Circus Arts Conservatory. Dust off your cape and connect with your inner superhero as we take you on a thrilling journey into the world of heroes, villains and extraordinary feats. Witness an unforgettable fusion of the musical and circus arts, featuring music from your favorite characters —all under the Big Top at Nathan Benderson Park.
• March 20-21—Fountains, Tides & Tempests. Embark on a musical voyage with selections inspired by the sea! Experience Korngold’s The Sea Hawk Overture, Han Zimmer’s Drink Up Me Hearties from Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Fountains of Rome by Respighi. www.thevenicesymphony.org
Via Nova Chorale
▼ Elevate! The Music of Joy is on March 6, 7 p.m. With music by F. J. Haydn, Morten Lauridsen, John Legend, and more. This uplifting concert takes an inspiring stand—joy is the way forward. At First Presbyterian Church, 2050 Oak St., Sarasota. Tickets ViaNovaChorale.org. For more info, call 941-263-2086.
Venice Concert Band
▼ The Venice Concert Band has the Gift of Hope on March 23
This concert will be both a tribute to our human spirit as well as our patriotic spirit. The musical selections you will hear highlight our personal emotions and our nationalistic feelings as we celebrate the 250th birthday of America.
Tickets will be available for this performance March 9, 2026. The Band is sponsored by the City of Venice. Concerts are held at the Venice Performing Arts Center, 1 Indian Avenue, Venice. Tickets: www.Veniceconcertband.com/
Attention Arts Organizations:
Have you sent your season schedule yet?
We’ve received lots of them so far, but do we have yours? If you want coverage in West Coast Woman, make sure to send your schedule to: westcoastwoman@ comcast.net.
your health
Craniosacral Therapy Can Be Life Changing
CST treats the whole body physically, physiologically, mentally, emotionally and energetically
Clients come to me because they are in physical pain such as neck, back, pain and TMJ as well as for chronic headaches and migraines.
Pain and stress caused by shortened Fascia
Fascia (strong connective tissue) encases all our muscles, organs, brain and spinal cord. Whenever fascia shortens any place in the body, the entire network of fascia creates an increased tension affecting the functioning of our physical body as well as our organs, our brain and spinal cord.
Our body is the history of every major trauma we have experienced physically and emotionally beginning with birth issues, falls, head trauma, car accidents, childhood abuse issues, death, divorce and other emotional issues. Our body tries to minimize each trauma by shortening fascia to isolate the energy
coming into the body from that trauma. Shortened fascia results in pain, loss of mobility and range of motion, organs becoming less efficient and with parts of the brain and spinal cord becoming stressed.
To keep the brain functioning, the body transfers some of your functional work play energy (7:00 AM-10:00 PM) to the brain resulting in less energy to make it through each day. As we age, the accumulation of all the tightened fascia, from every major trauma in life, begins to restrict every aspect of our body’s functions resulting in pain, loss of mobility, mis-functioning organs, loss of energy, as well as our brain losing some its sharpness.
How Craniosacral Therapy Works
The Craniosacral Therapist creates a safe place, with gentle holding techniques, that engages your body’s ability to self correct, reorganize and heal itself with the release of some of that tightened fascia during each session. As the Craniosacral Therapist engages your body, you will feel fascia releasing. As the fascia releases, pain begins to decrease, range of motion and mobility improve, organs begin functioning better and with less stress on the brain feels, it returns the energy it borrowed at the time of each trauma resulting in an immediate increase in your energy levels. Rarely does anyone leave from my first session not feeling better.
Short Leg Syndrome
Eighty-five percent of my clients have one of their legs pulled up 1/2 to 1 by shortened fascia. The tension from short leg syndrome on the sacrum (5 fused vertebrae at bottom of the spine) is transferred up the dural tube that encases the spinal cord into the lower and upper back, the neck, the cranium and
Babies and Children can benefit
■ Our little boy Leo, four years of age, had a difficult birth and at 7 months was put on antibiotics for an ear infection and as a result developed c-diff. His development came to a stop.
At 3 years, with the help of an OT, he started to walk and talk. In spite of the improvements, he was unable to answer questions and his communication skills were very poor. Leo had very poor muscle tone, a lot of stress in his body and physical activities such walking, jumping and climbing were difficult for him.
Beginning with the first session with Terry, he began showing improvement and with each following session. Everyone from his teachers to his grandparents noticed an increase in his
■ “I was in awful pain and the MRI showed 2 pinched nerves and stenosis. I scheduled surgery. My daughter suggested Craniosacral therapy. After only 2 visits the pain was reduced to about 80% and I canceled the surgery. I went for a 3rd visit and I am about 90% better.”
■ “Simply Amazing! One visit was all it took for Terry to relieve 85% of my year long, nagging (sometimes severe) neck/shoulder tightness/ pain!! My breathing improved tremendously.”
physical strength, as well as improvements in comprehension, speech and communication skills. For the first time, he started participating in class lessons and interacting with his classmates. Terry has made a huge impact on getting Leo to a place a little boy should be at age four. We cannot thank Terry enough.
■ Terry’s treatment helped our 6 week old baby boy from recent hospitalization into the first series of healthy bowel movements when seemingly nothing could help. Our son was able to latch onto the breast and for the first time completed his feeding. He was much calmer after working with Terry.
The physical stress in bodies caused by shortened fascia (connective tissue) shuts down energy flows to certain organs. Short leg syndrome by ½ to 1 in (where one leg is pulled up by shortened fascia) shuts down energy flow to the spleen (an important part of your immune system) and the small and large intestine. With the release of that shortened fascia, energy returns to these organs.
the brain. Headaches, migraines, TMJ and neck problems can originate from the fascial stress in the sacrum.
Releasing this sacral stress increases energy in the bladder, sex organs, kidneys and the chakras as well as releasing major stress in the upper part of the body.
Cause of Shallow Breathing
A great majority of the clients who come to me for various problems are also shallow breathers. Fascial stress in the diaphragm restricts the depth of breathing by restricting energy flow to the lungs, the pericardium
SOURCE:
and the heart. With the release of fascial diaphragm restriction, the client immediately starts breathing deeply and energy is restored to the pericardium and the heart. Shoulder blades that are cemented to the body also restricts how much the rib cage can open and thereby also restricting depth of breath. Without proper breathing, your cells do not get enough oxygen. Everyone, especially people suffering from bronchitis, asthma and COPD as well as shallow breathing can benefit when the fascial stress is released.
Specialized Training to work with Brain Dysfunctions
Just as the body physically gets stressed from physical and emotional trauma, the functioning of the brain is also affected by fascial stress. For our brains to remain healthy, we need dynamic production of craniosacral fluid which performs the important function of bringing nourishment to all the cells in the brain and spinal cord as well as cleansing all the metabolic wastes given off by those same cells. Once the craniosacral fluid cleanses these metabolic wastes, efficient drainage of these metabolic wastes into the lymph system is absolutely necessary. Research has shown, that at night, craniosacral fluid cleanses amyloid plaques from the brain. If the drainage is inefficient, then the brain is being bathed in a toxic slurry. How does 15 or 20 years of your brain being bathed in a toxic slurry affect you: senile dementia, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and other brain dysfunctions?
A Craniosacral Therapist, who has received training in working with the brain, can reverse that stress on the brain that eventually can result in those brain dysfunctions. As we all know, the proper functioning of the body is dependent on a healthy functioning brain
■ Terrence Grywinski of Advanced Craniosacral Therapy B.A., B.ED., LMT #MA 6049. Terry has specialized in Craniosacral Therapy since 1994 when he began his training at the Upledger Institute. Described by his teachers, clients and colleagues as a “gifted healer”, Terry’s intuitive sense and healing energy provides immediate and lasting relief from injury, pain, mobility issues as well as dysfunctions of the body and the brain. Part of Terry’s ongoing education, he has completed 4 craniosacral brain and peripheral nervous system classes which enables him to work at a cellular level and with brain dysfunctions.
■ “He was able to relieve tension that I have been carrying around for 15 years or more. I left his office table with more energy than I have had in years.”
■ “I began working with him because I was dealing with anxieties, depression and lots of emotional pain inside and out. You don’t realized how much stress can cause damage to your body, mind and soul. I can say Terry was a big help.”
Call 941-321-8757 for more information, Google Advanced Craniosacral Therapy
■ “On a recent vacation to Siesta Key, I re-injured my back. I found Terry online. I can say with complete joy that was the best decision I made in the history of my back pain. I have sought many modalities and visit a CST regularly and never have I had such a healing in my entire body.
After 3 sessions, I made a 16-hour drive home with no pain or discomfort in my entire body. Unbelievable. My body has a sense of moving freely and that is completely new. I’m
so grateful to Terry for his knowledge, for his sensitivity to my needs and his kind generosity in healing my body. I will see him when I return next year.”
■ “I am a snowbird who spends 7 months in Sarasota. I have had back problems for 25 years. Terry’s techniques have led to a great deal of release and relief in areas that have been problematic. I have been seeing him over the years when my body says ”it’s time”. Usually after a few sessions, I can tell a huge difference.”
focus on the arts
Sarasota Opera House at 100
Community Festivities are planned for April
At the close of its opera season, The Sarasota Opera will celebrate the 100th anniversary of its home, the Sarasota Opera House. The building, originally the Edwards Theatre, opened on April 10, 1926, and was the vision of A.B. Edwards, the first mayor of Sarasota
Back then it had a three-story entrance containing eight shops on the ground floor, 12 offices on the second floor, and 12 furnished apartments on the third. The building was designed by Roy A. Benjamin in the Mediterranean Revival style architecture.
The theatre’s auditorium contained an orchestral pipe organ. The Sarasota Herald-Tribune back then hailed Edwards for “having admitted Sarasota into a fairyland of costly decoration, rich furnishings and never to be forgotten artistry.”
Sarasota was on the rise and riding the wave of the Florida land rush.
Prior to 1921, Sarasota was a part of Manatee County. That changed when several influential Sarasotans pushed for the creation of a new county and on May 12, 1921, Governor Cary Hardee signed a bill creating Sarasota County, with Sarasota serving as the county seat
More change was to come. In September 1923, the citizens of Sarasota built a baseball diamond and grandstand on land sold to the city at a discounted rate by Calvin and Martha Payne. The facility would eventually be called Payne Park.
After several unsuccessful attempts to get a professional baseball team to use the facilities for spring training, in 1924 the city was able to secure the New York Giants to start traveling down to Sarasota.
As for the Edwards Theatre, the building quickly became a popular entertainment venue with major performers such as Will Rogers (in 1927) and the Ziegfeld Follies (1928) appearing there.
Interestingly, opera was performed prior to the Sarasota Opera. In December, 1926, opera was performed by the San Carlo Opera who brought “Carmen” and “Martha” to the stage.
In 1926, the population of Sarasota grew to over 15,000, reflecting significant development during the Florida land boom (in 1920 it was just 3,000). At that time, it was the largest city on the Gulf Coast south of St. Petersburg.
In a way, the theatre mirrored its community - boom then bust, then boom again, hurricanes (in 1929 a hurricane destroyed the theater organ and skylight) and changes in entertainment preferences from vaudeville to theatre to movies - and later opera.
The real estate market collapsed and the Great Depression followed. Highlights from the decades that followed
included the 1952 premiere of Cecil B. DeMille’s film “The Greatest Show on Earth” which opened at what was now the Florida Theatre.
Also in the 1950s, the stage was extended to accommodate Cinemascope screens and the orchestra pit was covered. And one of Sarasota’s most famous visitors, Elvis, performed there on February 21, 1956, giving four performances, with a top ticket price of $1.
Going against the Sarasota tendency to demolish old buildings, the theatre was saved - literally - from an awaiting wrecking ball by REI (Radio Electronics Institute Inc.). They bought it in 1973 and sold it to The Asolo Opera Guild, sparing it from becoming a men’s exercise club. Leo Rogers donated the $50,000 down payment, and the company assumed a $100,000 mortgage.
In the ensuing decades, Sarasota Opera grew and grew and developed a devoted following - many were transplants from major cities who were accustomed to quality opera performances. It was to become one of Sarasota’s cultural icons along with the Asolo, the Sarasota Orchestra and Art Center Sarasota.
In 1984 the first floor of the partially renovated Sarasota Theater of the Arts reopened with Tchaikovsky’s “Eugene Onegin.” Interestingly, current General Manager Richard Russell started as an apprentice artist in 1989 with the company and was with Sarasota Opera for four seasons beginning as an apprentice artist, studio artist, and principal. More changes and renovations were to come. The balcony was restored and seating expanded to 1,000. The lobby also got a redesign. In 2007-2008 another major renovation took place to the tune of $20 million. The orchestra pit was dug deeper and expanded to make room for 45 musicians.That major ren-
ovation also included gutting the auditorium, which resulted in a newly configured seating plan, expansion of the public areas and a new Opera Club on the second level. And then the three-story atrium, which was now covered with a newly-installed skylight, was reopened
The atrium and skylight was original to the building in 1926, but was covered by a ceiling and a chandelier used in the film, Gone with the Wind. In 2008, the Sarasota Opera reopened with Verdi’s Rigoletto. Seating was expanded to approximately 1200, however, after the 2009-2010 season, some seats along the far sides were removed and replaced with aisles leaving 1,119 seats.
And the Sarasota Opera’s prestige continued to grow. After a New York Times positive review of its production of “La Wally,” a work few people were familiar with because it hadn’t been performed in the U.S. since 1909, its reputation spread nationally.
That production in 1989 starred Stephanie Sundine, an accomplished performer and wife of Sarasota Opera Artistic Director Victor DeRenzi.
Interestingly, “La Wally” was performed again 2018 and again conducted by DeRenzi and this time directed by Stephanie Sundine.
DeRenzi, who joined the Sarasota Opera in 1982, has overseen more than 1500 performances of 218 productions performed in nine languages. Of those, he conducted close to 900.
In 2016, the company completed the Verdi Cycle to become the only opera company in the world to perform every note composed by the Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi.
The Opera house’s intimate setting makes it a favorite for performers who say it makes them feel closer to the audience. According to Richard Russell, “Artists like the sound. They don’t have to work too hard to be heard.” Being a smaller space, artists “can connect with the audience” as well, he notes.
A Centennial Concert and Dinner Cel-
ebration is planned for April 11 at the Sarasota Opera House that will highlight its 100-year history. That will be followed by cocktails and dinner by Michael’s on the Bay at Selby Gardens. And the community will have the opportunity to experience the building with their upcoming Centennial Community Open House on Sunday, April 12. They’ll have guided tours, exhibits, and behind-the-scenes access for this free community event. Though its not directly related to the building, more change is coming to Sarasota Opera. Artistic director and principal conductor Victor DeRenzi is leaving the Sarasota Opera at the end of his contract in May, ending a 44-year tenure that made him the longest-serving artistic director in the world and shaped the company into one of the most respected in the country.
Sarasota Opera Centennial Celebration
• April 12—Sarasota Opera has a Centennial Community Open House that is free and open to the public. Visitors can learn more about the history of the building through talks and exhibits. The event will end with a screening of the documentary about the Sarasota Opera.
• April 11 1:30 PM, Sarasota Opera will host a Centennial Concert at the Opera House that will pay tribute to the theater’s 100 year history and feature the Sarasota Orchestra, West Coast Black Theatre Troupe, the Circus Arts Conservatory, and the Sarasota Ballet as well as performances by soloists of Sarasota Opera including soprano Virginia Mims, mezzo-soprano Lisa Chavez, tenor Rafael Dávila, and baritone Jake Stamatis.
The concert will be followed by cocktails and a gala dinner at Michael’s On the Bay at Selby Gardens at 5 PM. Also in April, a new documentary will air on PBS/WEDU that chronicles the landmark’s evolution—from its origins as a 1920’s vaudeville and movie palace to its status today as one of Florida’s cultural treasures.
The documentary will be accompanied by a forthcoming book on the Opera House’s history, authored by Sarasota historian Jeffery LaHurd.
The community is invited to share photos, stories and memories of their time at the Opera House over the decades as part of a special social media initiative.
For more info, visit www.sarasotaopera.org/Centennial
healthier you
Embracing a New Chapter: The Art of Aging in Place
Aging in place is a powerful choice that allows individuals to continue their lives with a sense of dignity, independence, and emotional well-being. It is about more than just staying at home; it’s a philosophy that champions a life well-lived in the comfort of a familiar, cherished environment.
The Heart of the Matter: Comfort and Connection
The profound emotional benefits of aging in place are often the most compelling reasons people choose this path. A home is a living repository of a life’s story—a place of family gatherings, shared laughter, and quiet moments. Being surrounded by familiar photographs, a favorite armchair, and a garden tended to for years provides a deep sense of security and continuity. This emotional anchor reduces stress and promotes mental clarity. The desire to remain in one’s home is a nearly universal sentiment; surveys reveal that over 90% of adults aged 50 and older would prefer to stay in their current homes for as long as possible.
This powerful connection to one’s surroundings extends beyond the front door. Remaining in a familiar neighborhood allows individuals to stay engaged with their community, whether through local clubs, friendships with neighbors, or familiar walking routes. These connections are vital for emotional health, providing a buffer against social isolation, a significant concern for the aging population. In fact, research shows that one in three adults aged 50 to 80 report feelings of loneliness, and staying connected to a community can be a vital antidote.
The Practical Choice: Independence and Support
The emotional pull of home is matched by the practical benefits of in-home care. A professional caregiver’s role is not to take over, but to partner with individuals to preserve their autonomy and freedom. This support can be customized to an individual’s specific needs, from help with daily tasks like light housekeeping and meal preparation to medication reminders and transportation. This level of personalized care ensures that people can continue to make their own choices,
from what to eat for breakfast to when to go to bed, reinforcing their sense of control and self-worth.
The importance of this support system is magnified by the changing demographics of the U.S. population. The number of Americans aged 65 and older is projected to increase from 58 million to an estimated 82 million by 2050. With this growth comes a rising prevalence of chronic health conditions; a staggering 93% of adults aged 65 and older have at least one chronic condition. This highlights the need for reliable, consistent care that can be delivered in a comfortable, non-institutional setting.
The Path to Success: Proactive Planning
While the desire to age in place is strong, successful implementation requires proactive planning. A significant challenge is that over 90% of homes in the U.S. are not “aging-ready,” meaning they lack necessary modifications like grab bars or accessible entryways. This gap underscores the need for families to have open, loving discussions about future needs and to explore resources that can help bridge the divide between desire and reality.
A trusted in-home care provider is a key part of this solution. By working together, individuals and their loved ones can create a tailored care plan that not only addresses practical needs but also supports hobbies, interests, and social engagement. The right caregiver can become a cherished friend, enriching a person’s life in countless ways. The art of aging in place is about celebrating life, one day at a time, right where you belong. It’s about ensuring that the next chapter is lived with the same vibrance, purpose, and joy as all the ones that came before.
ComForCare Home Care of Sarasota is here to help as you navigate these changes in dynamics and to support your family, giving you peace of mind. Call 941-346-6087 or email: basher@ comforcare.com, to find out how ComForCare truly cares like family.
Immediate Relief Beginning with the First Session:
Chronic Pain: Sciatic, Back, Neck and TMJ
Migraines, Foggy Brain and Lack of Concentration
Sight and Eye Problems
Asthma, Bronchitis, COPD, Shallow Breathing
Digestive and Constipation Issues
Leaky gut and Autoimmune problems
Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia and Depression
Concussions, Brain and Spinal Cord Health
Mobility and Energy Issues for Seniors
T. Grywinski specializes in difficult issues with great success
How Craniosacral Therapy Can Be Life Changing
“Doctors, physical therapists, massage therapists and chiros gave me little relief. Terry relieved my pain, after all these years! He has also helped four of my other friends. The man is an angel, with a gift from God....thank you Terry!!”
“After 3 sessions, I had more range of motion and mobility in my neck, shoulders and hips. I was getting to the point where walking and moving was difficult. It feels like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders, my voice is stronger and my energy is greatly increased. I feel much calmer and more grounded!!”
“I no longer feel physically sick each morning. No gastroenterologist or physician has ever properly diagnosed my mucus build up until now. As well as bringing about healing in my gut, he released an incredible amount of tension in my upper body.”
“The question is where has he been all my life? Terry is a true healer and if you are serious about being well, you are in luck. He is effective and lovely.”
President & CEOof the Education Foundation of Sarasota County
President & CEOof the Education Foundation of Sarasota County
She’s the President and CEO of the Education Foundation of Sarasota and a fifth-generation Floridian who has been at the helm at the Foundation for 10 years.
The goal at the Foundation is to help prepare students for life. “A high quality education is the foundation for any person in life.” The other equally important goal is working with teachers since they’re “The heart of every classroom.”
Jennifer Vigne
Jennifer Vigne
Sarasota County has the distinction of being one of Florida’s top school districts having consistently earned an “A” rating from the Florida Department of Education for over 20 years.
In 2025, it was ranked as the #2 best school district in Florida by Niche.com, based on various metrics like academics and college readiness.
Good teachers, good administrators and with the third leg of the table being the Education Foundation of Sarasota County, a nonprofit that supports both students and teachers in a variety of ways.
The Foundation was formed 35 years ago as a grassroots organization made up of everyday citizens who wanted to support Sarasota County’s public education.
Fast forward and the Education Foundation annually serves nearly 44,000 students and over 5,000 instructional staff and support personnel in 59 public schools in the Sarasota County Schools district.
Jennifer is the Foundation’s President and CEO. She’s a fifth-generation Floridian who has been at the helm at the Education Foundation for 10 years.
She sees the Foundation as a north star for students and says their goal is to help prepare students for life. “A high quality education is the foundation for any person in life,” she states.
To clarify, the Foundation is not a part of the school system - a common misconception - nor does it take direction from the school system either. Instead, over the years the Foundation has formed a strong partnership with the school system while avoiding any political challenges and leaves curriculum to the schools.
The Foundation instead prefers to uncover what kids are good at and how they can be on a path to a fulfilling life after graduation.
This is done by “providing access to tools that help close achievement gaps and make learning more innovative and hands-on for students,” according to their website.
The Foundation’s programs are unique. In 2016, for example, they began a College, Career, and Life Readiness (CCLR) initiative. In 2018, they partnered with the school district to create Student Success Centers in area high schools where students could work individually with Education Foundation College Career Advisors.
The College Career Advisor then evolved into Student Success Coaches, offering a more holistic approach especially for low-income communities to help them prepare for college, career, and life.
The coaches work one-on-one with students to help them learn more options they may want to pursue after high school. Not every student wants to go to college, for example. But for those who do, they help with FAFSA, essays, college or job applications, admissions processes, and more.
The Future-Ready Scholars Program also empowers high school students for success in college, career, and life by providing coaching to meet students’ needs and offers mentorship and the opportunity to attend workshops on topics related to college, career, and wellbeing.
Students get assistance with securing scholarships, touring college campuses, and finding jobs. And it’s free to all.
Their web site has a place for students to search for everything from mentorship to college checklists, scholarships and more and is designed to be an empowering tool.
The other equally important part of their education partnership is with teachers - wanting to help them be better since “they’re the heart of every classroom.”
One way is by offering $200,000 annually in teacher grants through two different grant programs: the Education Foundation of Sarasota County’s Teacher Classroom
Grant and DonorsChoose.
Awards up to $1,000 are used for classroom supplies, equipment, activities, field trips, and related items.
Other awards range from $1,001 to $10,000 and involve collaboration between teachers across grade levels—or even across entire schools.
Throughout the year, the Foundation offers Educator Enrichment Workshops for teachers to “learn, collaborate, discuss, reflect and grow,” as well as connect with fellow teachers and talk shop.
Fittingly, every year they have their IGNITE Education Teacher of the Year Awards Celebration.
“Every child has the potential for success. Schools can’t do it alone - it’s a community investment,” Jennifer explains of the Foundation’s work. Her job involves “Lots of collaboration and meetings with partners, donors and strategizing with the school district and the board.”
The board is a mix of retirees, financial advisors, risk management experts, retired college professors, students (seniors in high school) and teachers. Board and staff are diverse, she says, with different life experiences and “they all bring something,” to the discussion.
Looking back on her decade with the Foundation she says it has gone through a lot of changes and the board has been supportive even though “We were a very small nonprofit at the time.”
She sees working in education as a “real calling” and all about “improving outcomes.” As a nonprofit, the Foundation must raise funds every year due to not having large amounts of reserve funds and physical assets like some nonprofits.
Local granting foundations support their work because “they get it” and see education as a constant priority. Foundations probably also appreciate their being so proactive with students and creating so many new programs. Being separate from the school district, “We get to operate as a research and development source for initiatives.”
Jennifer has a staff of 20 with half being in student support “Students are trying to figure things out. Kids might be new to the area, perhaps have housing insecurity. It’s all grounded in love for students.”
The Education Foundation has evolved as student needs and education trends evolved. “We’re always looking at the future of education - we have a future-focused mindset. We want to be at the table with innovation.”
Jennifer was born in Fort Myers. She’s a fifth-generation Floridian making her the rare person with that distinction. Not too many people can say they remember when there was no I-75 and, she adds, her junior high school had no AC.
She starts her days “really early” first with a devotion, then a trip to the gym to work out that she says “centers me.”
She and her husband Dan, who is a Managing Director in the Sarasota office of J.P. Morgan, are “a team of 31 years.” They have three grown children and a golden doodle. Together, they enjoy training for marathons, playing pickleball, going to the beach, hiking or boating Florida waterways.
While no doubt the work can he hard at time, it comes with satisfaction knowing you’ve filled a need. “We want each and every student to graduate prepared to successfully progress to and through their pathways beyond high school, whether that be in careers, active military service, technical schools, community colleges, or four-year universities. We want each and every student to find their purpose and be equipped to flourish in productive careers and nimbly adapt to a rapidly changing world.”
Learn more about the Foundation at EdFoundationSRQ.org
STORY and IMAGES: Louise Bruderle
Invoke, March 17, 5:30 pm dinner concert
A fascinating, unique repertoire of classical, bluegrass, Appalachian fiddle tunes, jazz, and minimalism by a quartet that defies genre classification
Lasting Impressions, April 6, 4:00 pm
The delicate beauty of impressionistic music forms the heart of this final Soirée Series program of the season
DragonBoot Quartet, April 12, 4:00 pm
Juilliard School student quartet presents the world premiere of Sarasota composer Roger Zare’s Gamma for string quartet, and Haydn’s String Quartet Op. 33
Shelf Tuesdays and Sunday Best concerts: $10 student
With our individualized approach, we reduce stress as much as possible.
dining out
Englewood’s Chophouse285
A meat lover’s paradise
To the uninitiated, dry-aging meat may at first seem counter-intuitive. True, it has been done for a long time going back to the Greeks and Romans, but that was to make meat last longerfeast or famine thinking.
In recent decades, dry-aging has seen a resurgence, particularly in high-end restaurants and butcher shops, for those seeking premium quality meat or a deluxe dining experience.
drying done exactly? It all takes place in a drying room - no kidding - that’s the size of a closet. When I first saw the aging room, which you can observe through a window while you’re there, I first thought it was an art installation of some sort.
Instead, those beautiful pink blocks in the background are made of
But do “drying” and “quality” belong in the same sentence with meat? The answer is yes. Dry-aging makes meat more flavorful. It’s the next step in the pursuit of the ultimate steak experience.
The only restaurant in the region with a true dry-aging room for steaks is Chophouse285 in Englewood. Their new restaurant (opened January 8) is more like a steak emporium - elevating prime meat and its preparations to the highest level and for the most flavor.
So getting down to specifics, how is the
pink Himalayan salt. Himalayan salt in particular helps draw out excess moisture from the meat and reduces humidity levels. This helps in forming a desirable outer crust during aging.
Temperature and humidity are carefully controlled and monitored. On the racks up front are bone-in ribeyes including some tomahawk steaks. They’re aging them at Chophouse285 for 30 days now and plan on making it 60 days later.
The meat looks like it’s been cooked already - dark and shrinking a bit, but that’s a
good thing; it means the flavors are starting to intensify. Drying also breaks down the tougher parts.
So after that crash course in dry-aging meat, it was on to the rest of the restaurant which, for Englewood, is very large and expansive with 10,000 square feet of space
that can seat approximately 300 guests. There’s also an event room for special occasions.
Keith and Laurie Farlow are the proprietors of this new addition to the local food scene. They’re not newbies by any means. Not far away is Farlow’s, their popular (and also large) seafood restaurant. I got the distinct impression very early on when talking to Laurie and later Keith that they enjoy creatingnot just serving food. You can see it in little things like a restroom door that’s made out of Prohibition-era wood from the oldest distillery in Kentucky, Laurie says with some pride (she’s from Kentucky). Also, historic wooden beams from the same distillery can be seen crafted into the bar and interior spaces.
Keith and Laurie Farlow are the proprietors of this new addition to the local food scene. They also own nearby Farlow’s.
The bar area is expansive and offers a variety of drinks including bourbon
chophouse285 continued
Walking the restaurant means starting in a colorful, casual area with upholstered chairs for drinks and appetizers, then passing a high-ceilinged impressive bar which is, you guessed it, large.
From the bar, we meander around past various settings and spaces and a room for private parties. Some are more quiet and darker while others are open and brighter - depending on your mood at the time.
Meandering still, we pass the kitchen area and it’s hard not to miss their custom-designed wood-fired grill. It was designed by Keith and grill-builder maestro Chris Demant of Grills by Demant (known for making uber fancy grills).
It was cold the day I arrived so this was my favorite spot for more reasons than one. Who doesn’t love a steak grilled to just the right crust that only an open flame can give?
A few steps down past the dry-aging room, there are other windows that allow you to see into one prep room where they are making handmade pasta and another where you can see them making their own pastries and desserts.
They offer detailed descriptions of their steaks. The job is to inform for the best steak experience even if you want it really, really done. Their menu goes to great efforts to guide, but not dictate, desirable ways to order their meats - from rare with a crust, all the way to well done.
They have their dry-aged steaks - 18 ounce bone-in ribeye - but also wet-aged steaks from 9 ounces up to a 13 ounce New York Strip. Treat yourself to an 18 ounce bone-in Cowboy steak or go bigger with a 20-ounce bone in Porterhouse.
They also have Wagyu steaks, chateaubriand for two and a beast of a 48 ounce, bonein Tomahawk. To go with the steaks they offer five types of sauces: Hemingway, peppercorn, huckleberry jam, Bordelaise, Uni sauce and Henry Baine (First served at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky, it typically includes tomato, vinegar, chutney,
and pickled walnuts. Yes, I looked that up).
Suffice to say, the menu is long and has just about everything you could want and no, you don’t have to order steak or meat for that matter. They have seafood, salads and pastas. Add to the mix, tacos, burgers and at lunch you can enjoy New York style deli sandwiches
ingway bourbon and Worcestershire brine before frying.
From their press release, “Keith’s Caribbean upbringing in St. Croix, USVI, and Laurie’s Southern roots in Bardstown, Kentucky, shape a unique culinary point of view that celebrates bold flavors and community.”
Keith’s father, David Farlow, had a very popular restaurant in Englewood that many may remember called The Country House Café which he sold in 2005.
I suggest a drink at the bar with a fine bourbon while you peruse their menu and narrow things down to maybe a final 10 options. After a second drink, you’ll have you winner. Good luck, but it will be fun making that final decision.
Laurie and Keith found there was a real need for serving premium steaks in the area and that challenge had her husband “fired up,” she says, no pun intended.
Lauries admits she doesn’t always order steak. She likes the Tasmanian salmon cacio pepe that is not farm-raised ($ 26.5) and is chargrilled on that same wood grill and
served over house-made linguine.
Laurie points to other personal favorites such as Johnny Cake potstickers ($16) with ground pork with ginger, cilantro and garlic that are fried and finished with sweet chili, yuzu honey, and chili-crunch almonds.
She also recommends Hemingway onion rings, ($14.8) that are marinated in Hem-
From Sarasota around Fruitville and I-75 the drive was about 40 minutes depending on traffic during the week. Going to a certain steakhouse in Tampa is more like an hour in traffic by comparison. Chophouse285 draws from Venice primarily, and Wellen Park, is “finding us,” Laurie says. Some even drive from Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota. The promise of a good steak will do that. So of course I had a steak and indeed that char-grilled crust was there with medium-rare interior. It was great. The last thing you want to do is skimp on steak. It’s not worth it. Leave it to the masters Chophouse285
285 W Dearborn St., Englewood
Lunch : Daily from 11:30 am – 3:00 pm
Dinner : MON-THU 3:30 to 9; FRI & SAT 3:30 to 10 and SUN 3:30 to 8 941-777-2467
www.chophouse285.com/
The custom-designed wood-fired grill
They offer a wide variety of steaks
STORY: Louise Bruderle
Images: Louise Bruderle and supplied image
One of the many colorful and spacious dining areas
women in business
Sarasota’s gone mellow with this pizza place
Meet Karen Atwood, owner of Mello Mushroom
What do three college guys do when they want some good, late-night pizza? They decide to make their own and turn it into a business called Mellow Mushroom. What do you do when you want to step out of the corporate world and love Mellow Mushroom pizza? You buy a franchise and move to Sarasota.
Being from the northeast, I was surprised I didn’t know about Mellow Mushroom - and I do love pizza. But its founding is rooted in the south with three pizzaloving Georgia Tech guys. Mellow Mushroom restaurants have a loyal and large fanbase, but they only go north as far as Virginia.
Karen Atwood, owner of Mello Mushroom
Also being from the northeast, I’m used to a certain type of pizza - thin crust, savory sauce and gooey cheese with a decided Italian taste. And, unlike some from the northeast, I’m open to new versions (save pineapple).
So I headed down Tamiami Trail just past Gulf Gate Drive to a place that seemed vaguely familiar in my memories of Sarasota. This was where the XXX movie theatre once stood and where Pee Wee Herman had his unfortunate run-in with overly zealous law enforcement.
But that has nothing to do with pizza and that building is totally gone. In its place is a colorful retro-looking building that was built from the ground up by Mellow Mushroom owner Karen Atwood.
She’s long been a fan of Mellow Mushroom pizza and when the opportunity presented it, she decided to take the plunge and become a franchise owner. She and her wife were living in Atlanta and began the process of choosing where to live and where a Mellow Mushroom would work.
They wanted south of Tampa and north of Fort Myers. “We originally thought of Fort Myers, but they already had two,” she recalls. So they decided to check our Sarasota and liked what they saw. “We were attracted to the area for its art and diversity,” she notes, and better still, there was no Mellow Mushroom already here.
Moving wasn’t a big deal for Karen as she has moved around a lot. Born in Wyoming, she’s lived in California, Texas and Utah. Her career had her working for AT&T with their credit card portfolio and she worked her way up. Other jobs took her to New York and Boston. It was in nearby Provincetown that she met her wife Keo 22 years ago.
A move to Atlanta was for another job and a much-desired warmer climate. She and Keo discussed things and with her partner’s okay to leave the corporate world, Karen raised funds from family, friends, SBA loans and her own money.
The restaurant took some time to build and it opened in 2018 even though it looks brand new. Those first few weeks? “It was mayhem,” she recalls, and that means good because it was packed.
She herself had dined at Mellow Mushroom for years so it wasn’t a new experience, but running one is another. Restaurants have lots of moving parts - staffing, scheduling, supplies, customer service and making good food. So it figures her background that includes “20+ years of experience successfully managing technical and non technical projects with results-driven execution,” according to her LinkedIn profile, would be put to good use.
The interior is decorated in ’70s colors of orange, yellow and green
mellow continued
The interior is decorated in ’70s colors of orange, yellow and green with some trippy murals and flower power artwork on the walls.
From the decor and artwork to the menu and the food, Corporate Mellow Yellow sets guidelines with some flexibility. And no two Mellow Mushroom are alike, she notes.
“We follow their methodology and then put our touch on it,” she explains as seen in the artwork with the Sarasota collage (see if you can find Pee Wee - he’s in there) and the mid-century 1960s feel to the place.
dough and sauce and then franchise owners work off of company-approved recipes. It’s not an authoritarian thing so much as a
the crust on up. There’s even a stuffed portobello if you’re “not in a pizza mood,” she explains. “We cover all the bases.”
An artist oversees the “art package” for the restaurant and local artists are hired, she explains. To the back there’s a large elephant head (not real) over a tie-dyed painting by Andrew Speer, an artist from Orlando.
But on to the pizza. To start, they’re stone-baked with a proprietary Mellow Mushroom dough that has a slight “sweet” flavor and is made with just five ingredients and comes with a nicely browned crust.
It’s thick and bubbly, but not deep dish. Beyond standard options, they offer unique pies like the Thai Dye (curry chicken, cucumbers) or Kosmic Karma (pesto base, feta, spinach) which was delicious
Those three guys created the original
They have a great event space and have hosted sports teams, family gatherings and more
way to have consistency with a great idea.
Great White Pizza has an olive oil and garlic base with sun-dried tomatoes, provolone, feta, seasoned ricotta, fresh basil and mozzarella, Roma tomatoes and onions— delicious and flavorful.
Karen says the Holy Shiitake pizza is one of their most popular. It comes with a mixed mushroom blend with mozzarella, provolone, and Fontina cheese. You can really taste the fresh ingredients. In other pies, they use all-natural meats with no hormones or preservatives.
And they have a generous selection of vegan/gluten-free pizzas or you can, gluten-free or not, build your own pizza from
The menu also includes wings, munchies (like pretzel bites), hoagies, calzones, and lots of desserts. To one side of the restaurant is a sleek bar; the other side has banquettes, tables and booths.
The Holy Shiitake pizza is one of their most popular
Business has been good, she notes because so many know the Mellow Mushroom name. “We have a cult-like following. Some people plan their trips around Mellow Mushroom. Asheville leans into the folk art vibe, for example.”
So, there’s no guy in a t-shirt behind the counter writing your order down on a small piece of paper in a hole-in-the-wall space. “We’re not New York - not trying to be and no, not Italian.”
They also have 24 draft beers as well as handcrafted cocktails. Worth noting is they have a great event space. On our second visit a group was having a wonderful time in there. Karen says they’ve hosted sports teams, family gatherings and more. Plus they offer catering.
Mellow Mushroom SARASOTA
6727 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
Open Monday-Thurs. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 9:30; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
941-388-7504
www. mellowmushroom .com/
ABOUT Mellow Mushroom
Started in 1974, it was originally established in Atlanta, Georgia near Georgia Tech’s campus on Spring Street when three college friends got together to open their first Mellow restaurant.Mellow Mushroom has grown into a multi-state franchise comprising of 160+ locations across 17 states nationwide. Each location environment feels unique from the last, featuring original psychedelic artwork and locally-influenced designs. Their signature dough recipe – comprised of the original 1974 combination of five carefully curated ingredients, a Mellow red sauce, and premium mozzarella cheese sprinkled with fresh parmesan are what make them unique.
Trippy murals and flower power artwork are on the walls
STORY and IMAGES: Louise Bruderle
focus on the arts
Embracing Our Differences Annual Exhibit
Runs to April 19 at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park
“Equal Booths” by Siwon Jung of Seoul Scholars International Art & Design in Seoul, Republic of Korea—winner of the Best-in-Show Student Artwork Award—portrays a diverse line of voters stepping into identical polling booths to highlight the profound equality of the democratic act.
Embracing Our Differences’ 2026 international outdoor art exhibition is on display at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park.
Sarah Wertheimer, President & CEO of Embracing Our Differences, says, “Every year, this exhibition reminds us that art has the power to bring people together in ways that feel both hopeful and deeply human. In a world that can feel divided, moments like this— standing side by side, experiencing these stories—matter more than ever.”
Wertheimer notes that EOD is offering free Saturday tours through April 18 at 10 a.m. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience the exhibition and explore our new line of upcycled merchandise, hand-sewn from past exhibition banners.”
This year’s response to the call for artwork and inspirational quotations was strong with 14,904 entries pouring in from 125 countries and 48 states. Students from 574 schools around the world submitted artwork or quotations to the juried exhibition. Awards for artwork are given for “Best-in-Show Adult,” “Best-in-Show Student,” and “People’s Choice” categories, with the last chosen by visitors to the exhibition.
Adult art winners each
receive $2,000; students receive $2,000, which they split with their school’s art program. Awards are also given for inspirational quotations. Adult quotation winners each receive $2,000; students receive $2,000, which they split with their school’s Language Arts programs.
To see all the works in the 2026 exhibition, visit the online gallery at www. embracingourdifferences.org
2026 WINNERS:
#2 The Best-in-Show Adult Artwork Award was presented to Istanbul-based artist Eda Uzunoğlu for “The Power of
“The Power of Love” by Eda Uzunoğlu of Istanbul, Turkey—winner of the Best-in-Show Adult Artwork Award—depicts two hands forming a radiant heart, symbolizing love’s ability to illuminate and unite our shared humanity.
Love,” a radiant image of two hands forming a heart from which bands of color burst into the darkness. Her illustration transforms a simple gesture into an emblem of hope, reminding viewers that compassion generates its own light.
#1 The Best-in-Show Student Artwork Award went to “Equal Booths” by Siwon Jung, an 11th-grade student at Seoul Scholars International Art & Design in Seoul, Republic of Korea. Jung’s watercolor depicts a row of polling booths where only the lower halves of voters are visible— each different in ability, background, and circumstance. Above them, the shifting
colors of the word “VOTE” underscore the shared right and equal voice each person carries into the booth.
The Best-in-Show Adult Quotation Award is: “Kindness is the language we all understand, even when our stories are written in different alphabets,” submitted by Yuliya Mitskevich of Warsaw, Poland.
The Best-in-Show Student Quotation Award is: “Dulling someone else’s pencil will not make yours any sharper,” by Ingrid Cushman, a 10th-grade student at Pine View School in Osprey.
For 23 years, EOD has welcomed the community to its annual outdoor exhibitions of 50 billboard-sized works of art and quotations celebrating inclusion, kindness, and respect. With more than 5.2 million visitors to date, the exhibitions remain the centerpiece of year-round education programming that fosters understanding and connection through cultural field trips, reading days, student clubs, and teacher workshops.
The 2026 exhibitions run to April 19 in Bayfront Park, Sarasota, and March 7–April 12 in Poynter Park, St. Petersburg.
For more information about these exhibitions or Embracing Our Differences, call 941-4045710 or visit Embracing OurDifferences.org
Erika
Wise
Borland, MA , Vice President
Susanne S. Wise, RN, MBA , CEO & Owner
Courtne y Wise Snyder, MSG, CMC, President
Parrots & Palms: Tropical Rock for Five O'clock… Somewhere
April 10-11 | 7:30 pm | Orioles' Ed Smith Stadium
Conductor: Kevin Fitzgerald | Vocalists: Chris Blem, Travis Birch, Shaleah Adkisson
Get swept away by the music of Jimmy Buffett, The Beach Boys, and other musical icons of surf and sea. Enjoy tropical rock classics such as “Kokomo,” “Under the Boardwalk,” and “Fins ” Spectacular fireworks round out an unforgettable evening of hits at the Orioles’ Ed Smith Stadium.
Purchase tick ets online at Or ioles.com /arts or call the O r ioles’ Box Offi ce at 9 41-893-63 12
March 5-15
Get ready for a night of foot-stomping fun and Celtic charm! This high-energy Irish band from Tampa Bay blends traditional Irish folk tunes with pubstyle singalongs and crowd favorites
March 10 • 2 & 7pm
ABBA EUPHORIA is
and Euphoric ABBA TRIBUTE
from
This LIVE CONCERT is enhanced by a Stunning Full Length On-Screen Media Show and is Fun for all ages!
March 28 • 7pm
This world-class show band pays tribute to the iconic rock legend. Led by Phil Dunget, who embodies the spirit of Tom Petty with showmanship and an uncanny likeness, the band delivers an energetic concert experience.
April 4 • 7pm
good news
Hermitage Artist Retreat
Land and Property on Manasota Key
The Steans and Morrisons have gifted their three adjacent properties on Manasota Key to the Hermitage. The combined properties – once a home to the Vanderbilt family and now valued at $12,000,000 – span 6.5 acres and include five houses to provide additional artist accommodations for the Hermitage’s renowned residency program.
The Hermitage Artist Retreat has received an unprecedented gift of land and property from the Morrison and Steans family. Located less than half a mile from the Hermitage’s existing home on Manasota Key, this property will more than double the Hermitage’s capacity for its artist residency program. The total appraised value of the gift is approximately $12,000,000, making this one of the largest land gifts of its kind to a nonprofit arts organization.
The Gulf-to-Bay property spans 6.5 acres of land and is comprised of five main structures. These buildings will provide additional accommodations for the nonprofit’s renowned artist-in-residence program. Generative artists, writers, and performers are invited by nomination to enjoy multi-week residencies on Manasota Key, where they receive the gift of time and space in an inspirational setting to develop new works of theater, music, visual art, literature, dance, and more.
The Morrison and Steans families –comprised of seven siblings and cousins – made this gift to the Hermitage in honor of their parents: Harrison I. Steans, Lois M. Steans, Harold M. Morrison, and Adeline S. Morrison.
“Our parents believed in the mission and values of the Hermitage, and they understood first-hand the inspiration and importance of its Manasota Key home,” said the families in a joint statement. “We donate this property to the Hermitage Artist Retreat filled with hope that it will always remain a place of kindness and tolerance, where invited artists feel welcome; a place for fostering community, collaboration, connectivity, and conversations; a place of inspiration and creation; and a place that stewards the rich ecology and diversity of nature.” Adeline Morrison (in the photo) remains an engaged and enthu-
siastic supporter of the Hermitage, along with her four daughters, three nieces, and their respective families.
“This transformative gift from the Morrison and Steans family is a game-changer for the future of the Hermitage,” said Artistic Director and CEO Andy Sandberg. “The family’s belief in the mission and values of the organization is deeply moving, and we do not take for granted what an unbelievable gift this is. This property will allow the Hermitage to not only serve individual artists, but also to uplift and support more collaborative ventures and project residencies – developing works that will be seen across the globe in major presenting halls, Broadway stages, concert venues, leading museums and galleries, bookstores, and cinemas.”
Hermitage property up the road, the newly donated properties suffered minimal damage from the storms.
The property is also the Hermitage Artist Retreat’s first ownership of land, as the nonprofit organization has been a longstanding tenant of Sarasota County in its properties adjacent to Blind Pass Beach. Nevertheless, the nonprofit organization has no intention of abandoning its original Manasota Key home, where the Hermitage has a lease with the County that currently allows for extensions up through 2055.
The properties were originally built by the Vanderbilt family, who settled on Manasota Key in the early 1950s. The Steans and Morrisons ultimately acquired the properties from Samuel and Lydia Auchincloss in 1987. For the past four decades, the Steans and Morrisons have used these homes as a retreat for their seven daughters and their respective families and guests.
As the Hermitage has grown, physical capacity has been a challenge for the organization. In recent years, the Morrison and Steans family invited the nonprofit to host artists-in-residence as their guests when the Hermitage needed overflow accommodations. Since the fall of 2024, following the impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton on the Hermitage’s historic buildings, the Morrison and Steans families invited the Hermitage to expand its use of their properties. Unlike the historic
“This new property is intended as an expansion, not a replacement,” added Sandberg. “To have a property of our own where we can host additional artists in residence is deeply meaningful. This will allow us to broaden the reach and impact of our Hermitage programming, and to dream even bigger about the possibilities for project residencies, artistic collaborations, and more.”
In addition to its commitment as an arts incubator, the Hermitage takes pride in its commitment to ecological preservation. The organization has invested significantly over the years in planting native flora and removing invasive species from its Manasota Key home.
The Hermitage Board of Trustees recognizes this new ownership of property will mean an increase to the annual operating budget. “This has been an incredible period of growth for our organization,” noted Board President Carole Crosby.
“The organization is ripe for continued expansion, and we are hopeful that this extremely generous gift from the Morrison and Steans families will inspire others to recognize the value of supporting this vital arts organization.”
A leading national arts incubator, the Hermitage is the only major arts organization in Florida exclusively committed to supporting the development and creation of new work across all artistic disciplines.
The Hermitage hosts artists on its Gulf Coast Manasota Key campus for multi-week residencies, where diverse and accomplished artists from around the world and across multiple disciplines create and develop new works of theater, music, visual art, literature, dance, film, and more. As part of their residencies, Hermitage Fellows participate in free year-round community programs, offering audiences in the region a unique opportunity to engage with some of the world’s leading artists and to get an authentic “sneak peek” into extraordinary projects and artistic minds before their works go on to major galleries, concert halls, theaters, and museums around the world. These free and innovative programs include performances, conversations, readings, music concerts, interactive experiences, open studios, school programs, teacher workshops, and more, serving thousands in our regional community each year.
For more information about the Hermitage: HermitageArtistRetreat.org
Adeline Morrison with Andy Sandberg
Lido Beach gets a Touchup
Renourishment is underway and should finish by April 2026
There’s not a lot of beauty in iron pipes, tractors, backhoes and netting everywhere, but it’s a sign of a better beach to come. The renourishment of Lido Beach, executed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is underway. Sure, it’s disappointing to see if you’re a Lido Beach user, but they’re doing it in stages and should finish by April 2026 - give or take a month.
The current phase involves approximately 200,000 to 300,000 cubic yards of sand which will be placed along Lido Beach to increase shoreline width and stability. Renourishment will target areas that have experienced up to 90 feet of beach erosion.
The Lido Beach renourishment project is being fully funded by the federal government, costing around $12 million, and aims to restore 1.2 miles of beach.
Lido Beach experienced accelerated shoreline damage due to the cumulative impacts of multiple hurricanes.
So, think of it as an investmentprotecting and maintaining one of Sarasota’s best and most important assets - that you’ll be able to enjoy in late spring.
Just the Beachy Facts:
N Length of Beach Restored 1.2 miles
N Amount of Sand 200,000300,000 cubic yards
N Cost approximately $12 million
N Fully funded by the federal government
N Completion expected by early April 2026
N The project is designed to minimize impacts on wildlife and beachgoers. Coordination with environmental organizations ensures that construction occurs outside of critical nesting seasons for shorebirds and sea turtles.
Future Plans
Following the renourishment, a vegetative dune system will be constructed to enhance resilience against future storms and sea level rise. This phase is anticipated to begin in late 2026 and be completed by spring 2027.
Public Access
During the renourishment, Lido Beach will remain open, although some areas may be temporarily closed. Signs will be posted to inform beachgoers of any closures. Info: sarasotafl.gov
business profile
Caring Transitions of Sarasota & Bradenton
Compassionate, professional support during life’s biggest transitions
Embracing New Beginnings with Confidence.
How to Refresh Your Life, Routines, and Living Space at Any Age
Every day offers a fresh start—an opportunity to reimagine your life, refine your goals, and take meaningful steps toward the future you want. Whether it’s January or July, the best moment to make a positive change is the one you’re in right now. New beginnings don’t have to be dramatic or tied to major life events.
Often, they begin quietly with a choice, a new habit, or a simple question:
“What do I want the next part of my life to look like?”
A recent poll found that nearly 80% of Americans feel “stuck” in their routines, a feeling that can become more noticeable as we grow older. Our priorities shift, our energy changes, and our lifestyles evolve, yet our habits often stay the same. While change can feel intimidating, it is never too late to redefine what is possible. Many people find that later life provides more clarity and confidence about what truly matters. At Caring Transitions of Sarasota & Bradenton, we believe in supporting individuals through these transitions so they can move forward with purpose and peace of mind.
Breaking Free from Routine “‘Someday’ is not a day of the week. Just commit, make the plan, and do it.” If you are considering a fresh start, think about ways to bring new energy into your life:
• Try Lifelong Learning: Take a course, learn a craft, or write the book you’ve been imagining.
• Build Connections: Join a walking group, volunteer locally, attend a class, or reconnect with neighbors.
• Prioritize Wellness: Gentle exercise, stretching, nutritious meals, and outdoor time support health and vitality. Small changes can create meaningful momentum.
A New Beginning at Home
Another powerful way to refresh your life is to re-evaluate your living environment. A home that once felt perfect may no longer match your needs. Perhaps the space is too large, maintenance is overwhelming, or daily routines would be easier if you lived closer to family. Sometimes, a new home brings not only comfort and safety but also a renewed sense of independence. Options such as downsizing, relocating to a smaller home, moving closer to loved ones, or joining a 50+ community can support your evolving lifestyle and open the door to new opportunities.
However, transitioning to a new home involves much more than choosing where to live. Sorting belongings, organizing years of memories, and coordinating logistics can feel overwhelming. That’s where Caring Transitions of Sarasota & Bradenton steps in. We specialize in senior relocation, downsizing, estate
cleanouts, and comprehensive planning. Our personalized process honors your belongings and your history while guiding you through every step of the move.
Experience Day One Living
One of the most meaningful ways we support clients is through our Day One Living approach. Instead of arriving at a new home and facing boxes, clutter, or uncertainty, many clients walk into a fully set-up space that feels familiar and functional from the very first day.
Our team ensures that:
• Bedrooms are organized and ready
• Kitchens and bathrooms are arranged for immediate use
• Everyday essentials are placed where you expect them
• Closets and storage areas are thoughtfully designed around your routines
This thoughtful preparation allows individuals to settle in quickly and comfortably. Families are often surprised by how seamless the transition feels. Instead of spending weeks adjusting, clients can begin enjoying their new home almost immediately.
Today Is the Best Day for a Fresh Start
The perfect time to begin a new chapter isn’t yesterday or some distant moment— it’s today. Whether you want to explore new interests, build new connections, or transition to a home that better supports your lifestyle, this is the ideal moment to take the next step.
When you’re ready, Caring Transitions of Sarasota & Bradenton is here to walk with you. Our team provides compassionate, professional support during life’s biggest transitions. You don’t have to navigate downsizing, relocation, or estate planning alone. With careful attention and a commitment to your peace of mind, we can help you move forward with confidence.
Serving Your Community with Care
Proudly Serving Sarasota, Bradenton and surrounding areas.
Start Your Next Chapter Today , call 941-225-8114 or visit CaringTransitionsSarasota.com
All about the Ubiquitous Spud
Potatoes were first introduced to North America in 1691
Potatoes were first introduced to North America in 1691, with the earliest certain potato crop planted in New Hampshire in 1719
While they spread throughout the northern colonies in limited quantities, potatoes did not become widely accepted until they received an aristocratic seal of approval from Thomas Jefferson, who served them to guests at the White House. Thereafter, the potato steadily gained in popularity, this popularity being strengthened by a steady stream of Irish immigrants to the new nation.
Going back a little further in time, the Inca Indians in Peru were the first to cultivate potatoes around 8,000 BC to 5,000 B.C.
Crispy Smashed Potatoes
INGREDIENTS :
12 small potatoes
1/2 cup butter; melted
2 cloves of garlic
1 tablespoon Marrakech (make your own with seasoning blend with coriander, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, black malabar pepper, ginger, cardamom, cloves, cayenne or just use which spices you like)
Sea salt to season
Garnish with parsley
DIRECTIONS :
Boil potatoes 25-30 minutes until tender. Drain potatoes and allow the steam to soak up all the moisture. The more dry the potatoes, the crispier they will be. Preheat oven to 390F. In a small bowl, whisk butter, garlic and Marrakech spice blend. On a baking sheet, line up the potatoes, giving them some space to expand, and smash each one with a fork or smasher. then, brush on the buttery marinade. Sprinkle sea salt. Roast to 45 minutes. Plate and garnish with parsley. Full recipe here: www.ilovehummuschick.com…
Easter Potatoes
Here’s something for the Easter dinner (or lunch). Yes, it’s quite rich.
INGREDIENTS :
8-10 medium Yukon gold potatoes
1 yellow onion, sliced
1 tablespoon butter
3 cloves garlic, chopped
8 ounces soft cream cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cups heavy cream
½ cup milk
1 tablespoon flour
¾ cup crumbled feta, plus 2 tablespoons set aside
½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
½ cup chopped fresh dill, plus 2 tablespoons set aside
INSTRUCTIONS :
Dice and boil potatoes in a large pot of salted water 15-20 minutes until knife tender but not completely cooked through. Drain and set aside to cool.
Nowadays, potatoes are grown in almost every region in the United States—more than 38 states grow potatoes. Since 2000, over one million acres of potatoes have been planted and harvested each year.
In October 1995, the potato became the first vegetable to be grown in space. NASA and the University of Wisconsin, Madison, created the technology with the goal of feeding astronauts on long space voyages, and eventually, feeding future space colonies.
The name “spud” for a potato is from the 15th century spudde, a short and stout knife or dagger, probably related to Danish spyd, “spear”. Through semantic change, the general sense of short and thick was transferred to the tuber from around 1840.
Green Peas and Red Potatoes with Fresh Dill
Fresh dill adds a unique flavor to this dish. Green peas, also called garden peas, sweet peas and English peas, are legumes, but are harvested and eaten just before reaching maturity when the seeds are still soft, sweet and edible raw. Given their higher protein content compared to other vegetables, green peas are perfect as an ingredient in a veggie-centric main course. To make this quick, stovetop dish, use frozen green peas, which have their sweet flavor and nutritional quality well preserved. Red potatoes, also rich in vitamin C and fiber, are a pretty contrast to the green peas. Look for red potatoes that are smooth and firm and store them in a cool, dark, well-ventilated space. Gently wash and scrub red potatoes with a vegetable brush or sponge. In this recipe, keep the potato skin on for its red color, extra fiber and earthy flavor. It’s the fresh dill that gives this dish its truly refreshing quality. Dill’s flavor is hard to describe, but when you eat it you may think of pickles and summertime.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large sauce or sauté pan, cook onions in butter over medium heat until translucent. Add garlic and sauté 2 more minutes until garlic is tender. Add cream cheese. Add salt and pepper. Once cream cheese is melted, add cream and milk. Cook 1-2 minutes, stirring often until everything begins to come together. Sprinkle flour over the mixture. Stir to combine. Cook 1-2 minutes. Add 3/4 cup feta and 1/2 cup fresh dill. Stir to incorporate.
Add the potatoes to a 9x13 pan.
Pour hot cream cheese mixture over potatoes. Sprinkle with remaining feta. Bake uncovered 15-20 minutes until the top begins to turn a light golden brown. Once potatoes are cooked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with the remaining fresh dill.
INGREDIENTS :
1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
4 medium red potatoes, skin on, cut into eighths
INSTRUCTIONS :
Dill has a clean, grassy, slightly tangy, mild anise, sweet flavor. Its delicate, feathery green leaves contain many health-promoting properties, including antioxidants. While you can use dried dill, it loses its flavor quickly. Fresh dill is definitely your better choice. Store fresh dill wrapped in a slightly damp paper towel for no more than two days.
1/2 cup chopped fresh dill
1 cup water
1 lb. frozen peas (fresh may be substituted)
1 lemon, cut into 1/3-inch slices
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
In large skillet heat oil over low-medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent, about 10 minutes. Stir in potatoes and dill. Add water to just cover potatoes.
Cover pan and simmer, stirring occasionally until potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes. Stir in peas, cover and simmer until peas are heated through, about 5 minutes.
While peas are heating, place lemon slices on toaster rack and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown in spots, or if grilling, sear until golden brown lines form, about 1-2 minutes.
Season peas and potatoes to taste with salt and pepper and garnish with lemon slices.
Serve either warm or chilled. Makes 6 servings.
SERVING SARASOTA 106 YEARS
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