SRQ DAILY May 16, 2019
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"The direction from our City Commission is to look at expanding the range of transportation options beyond the car."
As Sarasota creates its first transportation master plan, officials say they need to plan for more than automobiles on the road in the future.
“The direction from our City Commission is to look at expanding the range of transportation options beyond the car,” says Colleen McGue, chief transportation planner for the city.
That could mean new accommodations for ride share services like Uber, wider bike lanes on major traffic corridors, or even electric scooters that people can ride around downtown and toss to the curb when they reach their destination.
But officials won’t guess just yet what the top priorities will be. Rather, they want to hear first from citizens. The city last week launched its Sarasota In Motion survey, which individuals can fill out at SarasotaInMotion.com. Citizens can also attend visioning workshops on June 4 at the Bayfront Community Center at 11am or at the Robert L. Taylor Community Complex at 4pm. The event hopes to draw voices to chime in before snowbirds head up north and vacationers skip town for the summer.
“We are really in listening mode,” McGue says. Whatever the future may hold in the automotive and technology world, it’s important to Sarasota leaders that options the public desires become priorities here.
Could curb space be set aside specifically so Lyft drivers can drop off guests at popular destinations? Will there be autonomous vehicles taking commuters to work on Sarasota roads in 10 years? It’s all a possibility.
But officials also want to look at the most efficient use of transit options available today. That includes making sure the highest demand for bus transportation gets met.
McGue says the city hasn’t given up on micro transit. The city for a time subsidized Gotcha service to run for free in town, but the service now charges $3 to customers.
Some advances are already in motion at City Hall, which has a request for proposals regarding bike share services, and McGue says the city is gauging interest in vendors regarding scooter services.
The city also will host the 2019 Florida Commuter Transportation Summit later this month, when Sarasota officials plan to speak with attendees about local demands for transit. “It’s exciting that it’s going to be here,” McGue says.
A number of large employers from the region will be in attendance, McGue says, as will officials from the Florida Department of Transportation and officials in the field from around the state of Florida.
That event takes place at the Lido Beach Resort on May 29. 
A leading pioneer and visionary, Bruce Weiner proudly sits at the helm as Founder and CEO of The Longboat Group, a property development and management company, which has gained recognition in Sarasota based on the success of CitySide. Weiner has now set his sights on taking downtown Sarasota condo living to a new level. Bruce says, “I have been coming here for 37 years, Josh was two years old on our first trip, and five years old when we bought our first property here at Beachplace on Longboat Key.”
His partner in this venture is his son, Josh, who heads up the day-to-day operations of the business. Josh thrives in dreaming up new ways to enhance the resident experience at Longboat’s developments. CitySide has pioneered high-service apartment living in Sarasota including complimentary fitness classes, monthly socials, Saturday breakfast and even an adventure vehicle to take residents on paddleboard and kayak excursions.
Both Josh and Bruce are proud that they can take the service to another level at The Bayside Club. Over the course of the year, Bruce, Josh and the Longboat team developed Bayside’s lifted concept—continually bouncing ideas off each other and escalating the Club’s programs—all the while asking each other, ‘What do our residents want?’ ‘What can we do more of?’ “We’ve got an amazing team that we’re really fortunate to have started here at CitySide,” says Josh. “Everything we’re doing now, we’re taking it up a notch.”
The Bayside Club is a luxury community set to exceed the boldest expectations, providing unparalleled hotel services, amenities and offering resort-style activities. Calling The Bayside Club home, means living where most people would only ever dream to vacation. Join the Club.
SALES OFFICES CURRENTLY LOCATED AT CITYSIDE APARTMENTS. 700 COCOANUT AVE., SARASOTA, FL 34236. CONTACT EMILIE CAMPOS FOR INQUIRIES, VIRTUAL TOURS AND RESERVATIONS. 941-216-2438, WWW.THEBAYSIDECLUB.COM
An exciting change has transformed 15 South Ristorante into a new concept based on the iconic hospitality of New Orleans. Prepare to take your seat at Lido Key’s new hotspot for live entertainment—The Venue.
Opening this past March 17, The Venue is owned and operated by the Samuels family, who plan to incorporate the ambience of an upscale music club into the welcoming atmosphere of the Italian cucina, 15 South. The family’s history in the hospitality and music industry has prompted them to rebrand their former restaurant into a venue focused on live entertainment as a celebration of their multi-generational passion for great music, food, and guests.
The Venue’s live entertainment will feature the sights and sounds of renowned jazz artists along with Latin nights, DJ sets and local musicians. The hours of operation are: 12pm–10pm, Monday through Thursday; and 12pm–2am on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The Venue will be closed on Tuesdays. Visitors can expect to enjoy several 15 South favorites—artisanal brick-oven pizzas, a solid wine list and fabulous cocktails as they experience the Samuel family’s signature focus on quality ingredients and excellent service.
The Venue is a member of Nosh, SRQ magazine's content marketing program for local restaurants.
The Venue, 15 South Boulevard of the Presidents, Sarasota, 941-388-1555.
Riverview High School has announced that in its first year, the Excellence & Equity Initiative (E2) has enabled all 27 senior participants to attend the colleges or universities of their choice this fall. Collectively, the students have initially accepted more than $3.4 million in scholarship funds, equating to an average scholarship award of $127,208.59 per student. This does not include any community scholarships students may be awarded over the next several months.
The E2 Initiative seeks to promote the inclusion and success of underrepresented students in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program (IBDP) and International Baccalaureate Career-related Program (IBCP). Of the first 27 Riverview seniors that participated in E2: all qualified for free and reduced lunch; 60% identify themselves as a minority; 74% will be a first-generation college attendee; and all will be attending college in fall 2019.
Sarasota County is hosting a community meeting to gather input and ideas for a proposed expansion of Vamo Drive Park at 6pm, on Tuesday, May 21. The 2.8-acre waterfront park site was acquired in December 2018 and expands the existing adjacent Vamo Drive Park. Following a brief introductory presentation by county staff, the public will then have the opportunity to provide input and learn additional information. Maps, photos and other displays will also be available.
The community meeting will be held at Grace Church, 8521 Vamo Rd., Sarasota.
Hospital safety report cards were released this week, and both Sarasota Memorial Hospital and Doctors Hospital of Sarasota have received "A" ratings for patient safety, keeping patients safe from medical errors, infections, accidents and other preventable harm. Sarasota Memorial Hospital earned its sixth consecutive 'A,' as Doctors Hospital of Sarasota earned its 10th consecutive 'A' rating. The Leapfrog Group assigned U.S. hospitals A, B, C, D or F safety grades based on performance in preventing medical errors, injuries, accidents, infections and other harm to patients in their care.
Of more than 2,600 hospitals graded, 32% earned an A, 26% earned a B, 36% earned a C, 6% a D and just under 1% an F. Leapfrog’s Hospital Safety Grades are calculated by top patient safety experts twice each year to help patients quickly assess and choose the safest local hospitals to seek care. In its latest report card, the expert panel used 28 measures of publicly available hospital data.
To learn more about Leapfrog Group's methodology and results, visit the website below.
Morgan Stanley has announced that John Vita, a Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor in the Firm’s Bradenton Wealth Management office, has been named to Forbes Magazine’s 2019 list of America’s Best-in-State Wealth Advisors.
Forbes’ Best-in-State Wealth Advisors list comprises a select group of individuals who have a minimum of seven years of industry experience. The ranking, developed by Forbes’ partner SHOOK Research, is based on an algorithm of qualitative and quantitative data, rating thousands of wealth advisors and weighing factors like revenue trends, AUM, compliance records, industry experience and best practices learned through telephone and in-person interviews.
Pet Paradise, a Florida-based comprehensive pet services provider offering boarding, day camp, grooming and veterinary services, is opening its first Sarasota-area resort in Lakewood Ranch. The opening is scheduled for July 2019.
Pet Paradise Lakewood Ranch highlights include Tiny Town (a section of the resort just for dogs under 30 pounds), a veterinary clinic offering seven-day-a-week medical care, a separate dog park with all-day camp play, VIP camp drop-off, covered porches, shade structures, trees, indoor-only accommodations and a splash area.
Like existing Pet Paradise locations, Pet Paradise Lakewood Ranch will have an on-site, live-in team member, spacious, climate-controlled indoor/outdoor suites, synthetic grass play areas, auto-fill water bowls with fresh water systems, a bone-shaped swimming pool and peaceful/private cat condos.
The law firm of Syprett Meshad has expanded its legal team with the recent hire of Attorney Ben Sorrell. Practicing in the areas of real estate, commercial litigation and personal injury, Sorrell is licensed to practice before all Florida state courts as well as the United States District Court, Middle District of Florida. He is a member of the Young Lawyers Division of the Sarasota County Bar Association.
Prior to joining Syprett Meshad, Attorney Sorrell managed his own law practice representing clients throughout the Tampa Bay area in commercial and general litigation cases, as well as in real estate litigation. His practice also includes representing homeowners in foreclosure cases, and working with parties involved in HOA and condominium association disputes. In 2017, he served as a legal fellow for Gulfcoast Legal Services, and throughout 2018 he volunteered weekly at Gulfcoast, providing pro bono legal counsel for under-income and elderly citizens in Sarasota County.
Christine Kourik has joined RE/MAX Alliance Group as a realtor in the Anna Maria Island office. She has 28 years of real estate experience, most recently with Duncan Real Estate. She specializes in residential properties on Anna Maria Island, with a special focus on second homes and vacation homes. She also maintains her real estate broker's license in Missouri.
Kourik is skilled in luxury and waterfront homes, vacation properties and investment properties, generating $20 million in sales in 2018. Her numerous designations include Graduate, Realtor Institute (GRI), Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR), Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), the Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource (SFR) certification and e-Pro designation.
This murder and revenge in 19th Century London has shocked audiences. Unjustly imprisoned for 15 years, barber Sweeney Todd returns to take his revenge on the judge who took him from his family. When he partners with Mrs. Lovett and opens a barber practice above her meat pie ship, Todd’s need for vengeance increases. Their notoriety soars until Todd comes face to face with the judge. This thrilling theatrical treat is Sondheim at his very best.
Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota
Enjoy a musical spin on a story based on Hans Christian Anderson's "The Ugly Duckling." Ugly looks quite different from his duckling brothers and sisters, and the other animals on the farm are quick to point this out. Feeling rather insecure about himself, Ugly embarks on an adventure of self-discovery. Along the way, he even encounters a flock of characters who are unique like him and discovers that being different is not so bad after all.
Venice Theatre, 140 West Tampa Ave., Venice.
A world premiere from Mark St Germain, when a young surrogate mother is found dead, a police investigation explodes the lives of everyone who knew her. As Detective aleece Valez and Walt Dixon begin to put the pieces together, secrets surface, alibis weaken, and lies are uncovered. This dramatic new play explores motherhood, passion, and the thin line between right and wrong.
Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 North Palm Ave., Sarasota
At this special workshop with Academy of Botanical Art Founder, Olivia Braida, learn various advanced watercolor skills. Bring all paints and brushes. Instructor will supply several special tools and paper to help accomplish our goals. Registration is $135 for members/$160 for non-members.
Selby Gardens, 900 South Palm Ave., Sarasota.
Discover the pleasures of this ancient Zen art and learn to create spontaneous, understated and decorative flower arrangements using branches, flowers and leaves easily found around the home and garden. No experience necessary. Instructor will furnish materials. Bring garden scissors, paper towels and a creative spirit. Registration is $50 for members/$65 for non-members.
Selby Gardens, 900 South Palm Ave., Sarasota.
The American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life is the world’s largest movement to end cancer. Money raised from Relay For Life helps the American Cancer Society save lives by funding ground breaking research to discover cancer’s causes and cures and help people facing cancer today with free programs and services. People form teams and raise money together leading up to the event. Then, everyone comes together for a night of fun that celebrates cancer survivors, remembers loved ones lost to cancer, and unites us in our commitment to fight back against the disease.
Van Wezel , 777 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL
Take a stroll downtown to enjoy the weekend at the Sarasota Craft Festival, featuring a variety of jewelry, pottery, ceramics, photography, painting, clothing and much more - all handmade in America.
Five Points Park , 61 North Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota.
Join Morton's Market to celebrate their 50 Year Anniversary. Food & Fun! Live music & raffle prizes! All proceeds to benefits the Morton Culinary Education Fund.
Art & Soul Dance Company is proud to present our second annual Recital, Dancin’ 2019, featuring amazing performances from dancers aged 3 to Adult! Award-winning Choreography, fabulous technique and stunning costumes are sure to please every audience member. Each Show is different and will highlight our phenomenal dancers presenting the most current Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Ballet, Acro and Contemporary Dance routines around.
Manatee Performing Arts Center, 502 Third Avenue West, Bradenton.
An all media, open exhibition throughout all galleries. Includes Art & Animals on June 1—a fun family day with animals and art, nonprofit organizations, information, activities and photo opportunities. Guests are invited to bring their leashed, well behaved pets.
ArtCenter Manatee, 209 9th St W., Bradenton
Enjoy an extravagant wine tasting and food pairing where dress code is Field Club Casual (dress shorts acceptable, no jeans please). There will be a silent auction featuring wines from Argus member wine cellars!
Field Club, 1400 Field Road, Sarasota.
Kokedama is a style of bonsai in Japanese culture. In this class you will take a fresh plant (epiphyte) and wrap it in a peat-based soil recipe that is designed to hold its spherical shape; then you will fasten moss around it to make a gorgeous little green orb. You will make two of these plants to take home and display. Registration is $35 for members/$50 for non-members.
Selby Gardens, 900 South Palm Ave., Sarasota.
An evening with Operation Warrior Resolution (OWR) supporting military servicemembers with yoga, breath and body work and sound immersions on the stage of the legendary Sarasota Opera House. The event will be led by popular yogi master and Lululemon ambassador, Ms. Ashley Stewart. All proceeds will support OWR’s mission of providing immediate and effective mental health care at no cost for all U.S. military veterans and family members. Operation Warrior Resolution is a locally-based military nonprofit celebrating its first year as an officially recognized 501 c3 with a warrior pose for warriors – doing a downward dog on the same very stage a young Elvis Presley once shook his hips and sang “Hound Dog” at the Sarasota Opera House.
A variety of small eats and juices will be provided by local vendors in the courtyard immediately afterwards. Spots are limited, so get your ticket today and support our country’s warriors with a warrior pose yourself at the Sarasota Opera House!
Sarasota Opera House
Learn how to photograph “top down” from above. Create vignettes, explore props to use, minimalist styles, what to use for backgrounds and how to create backgrounds. Hands on play and photographing. Focus on mobile photography but all cameras welcome. Open to all levels. Registration is $60 for members/$75 for non-members.
Selby Gardens, 900 South Palm Ave., Sarasota.
Experience the joy of mono-printing without a press thanks to the gelli plate, a product that looks and feels like gelatin and can be used again and again. In recognition of the Gauguin exhibit, special emphasis will be placed on printing leaves and flowers from Selby Gardens Botanical Paradise. Create one-of-a-kind prints using textures, stencils, household items and acrylic paint. Registration is $50 for members/$60 for non-members.
Selby Gardens, 900 South Palm Ave., Sarasota.
Join us for the inaugural SRQ Margarita Festival, the perfect combination of live music and margaritas. Enjoy a variety of margarita flavors, 5 great bands, the areas best food trucks, games, anda spectacular firework display to end the night. Tickets are limited and are on sale now. Proceeds from event will benefit Turning Points, Barking Out Loud Rescue, and Farm Dog Fosters. #SRQritafest
Van Wezel, 777 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota.
SRQ Margarita Festival is the perfect combination of sterling tequila and great music. The event will feature 12+ types of margaritas, great bands, food trucks, games and a fireworks show to end the night.
Van Wezel Peforming Arts Hall, 777 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota.
Tune in for a great lineup of artists this Memorial Day, including The Kat Crosby Band, The Collaboration Band, Sarasota Slim, Ghost Mountain Revival Band and Ben Prestage. Snook Haven is located in a sedate area near the riverbed in a natural cove that holds the true old Florida ambiance. Enjoy two stages with non-stop music with styles from the Chicago blues scene to southern style blues. Tickets are $15 pre-sale and $25 at the door.
Snook Haven, 5000 East Venice Avenue, Venice.
In Gallery 1, Monumental, a group show, features small-scale sculptures. Next door, local artist Keith Crowley will exhibit a recent series of his meticulously layered photographically-based oil and watercolor paintings in his first solo exhibition at Art Center Sarasota. In Gallery 3, and featuring incisive and satirical investigations of the ego, sexuality, and competitiveness found on full display at gyms, Caitlin Albritton’s paintings and drawings of contorted figures address questions of gender issues and body politics.
Art Center Sarasota, 707 North Tamiami Trl., Sarasota
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