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SRQ DAILY Apr 1, 2024

Monday Business Edition

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Monday Business Edition

"We are committed to the communities in which we serve and operate out of. The North Venice campus will remain as one of our three operational support centers"

- Nick Board, Digital Marketing Manager, MITER Brands.
 

[Acquisition]  What Will MITER Purchase of PGT Mean in North Venice?
Jacob Ogles, jacob.ogles@srqme.com

As MITER Brands takes over one Sarasota County’s most prominent manufacturers, company leadership will shift to Pennsylvania. No current leaders of PGT Innovations are set to join the board and MITER Brands is acquiring the North Venice-based window and door manufacturer outright.

But MITER Brands Digital Marketing Manager Nick Board said the company will be involved in the community in this region.

“We are committed to the communities in which we serve and operate out of. The North Venice campus will remain as one of our three operational support centers,” he said. “Bringing the PGTI family of brands gives us a true national footprint. Our team in North Venice is critical to our success is in the Southeast part of the country.”

PGT is best known as a top producer of hurricane-resistant custom windows and glass doors. The Sarasota County-based company and has a glass plant in North Venice and manufacturing plants there and Fort Myers. The company in 2014 also acquired CGI Windows and Doors in Hialeah. In 2021, PGT purchased a controlling stake in Eco Window Systems, including Tampa-based Eze-Breeze.

Amid acquisition talks, the publicly traded PGT saw its stock rise soar in December above the $40 per share price, and in January received an unsolicited purchase offer from MITER Brands. When the acquisition was announced last week, shares for PGT were priced at $41.99 per share, up about 83.7% from the prior year. KeyBanc Capital Markets announced shareholders in the acquisition will receive $42 per share. Analysts estimate the complete acquisition for the company cost at about $3.1 billion. The transaction was financed in part by an equity investment from an affiliate of Koch Equity Development, the principal investment and acquisition arm of Koch Industries.

That has left the question of what happens with the company locally.

Jeff Jackson, PGT’s president and CEO since 2018 and an executive at the company since 2005, will play no role at MITER Brands. PGT announced weeks ago that Jackson had been appointed to the board of Astec Industries, a manufacturer of specialized equipment for asphalt road building, aggregate processing and concrete production.

Board confirmed all executive leadership for the company will now operate out of MITER Brands’ corporate offices in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Some executives at PGT will likely retain positions, but none will immediately become part of the MITER Brands board.

But Board said the company won’t be a distant corporate entity. “We are an owner-operated company with ‘family first’ values, and our vision is to build most valued window and door brand in America,” Board said.

That echoed sentiments in a corporate press release when the acquisition was announced. “Our journey has always been about more than just windows and doors,” said Matt DeSoto, CEO of MITER Brands, in a statement. “It’s about reframing what is possible and creating unmatched value for our team members, customers, supply partners, and local communities. With PGT Innovations becoming part of our family of brands, we are excited to work together towards our vision of building the most valued window and door brand in America.”

No decision has been made about whether the company or any of its subsidies will be rebranded as MITER evaluates PGT’s existing business relationships. Board said much of the value in acquiring the PGTI family of companies is in the existing and profitable partnerships with other businesses in the Southeast U.S.

He also stressed the community work of the MITER Foundation, which was created in 2015. The nonprofit arm for the company has donated more than $15 million to charities since that time, with MITER employees logging 28,000 in community service hours. Board said community support has been one of the pillars for the foundation in deciding where to direct its resources. 

File Photo: PGTI team members at the Venice location wearing the breast cancer awareness t-shirts in 2022

[Recognition]  Four Nautilus Homes Make the Moderns That Matter: The Sarasota 100 List

 Nautilus Homes, the esteemed luxury builder headquartered in Sarasota, has left an indelible mark on the architectural landscape of the region. Recently, the company's expertise has been showcased through its involvement in four of the iconic residences featured in "Moderns That Matter: The Sarasota 100” list, a new initiative organized by Architecture Sarasota. These landmarks epitomize the architectural character and unique identity of Sarasota, contributing significantly to the city's cultural and historical tapestry. Nautilus Homes played a significant part in building or being selected to manage historic renovation of the private residences, including a historic bungalow in Burns Court (full interior and exterior renovation); the Pavilion House by William Rupp (full interior renovation and hardscape); Siesta Key’s Sarasota Modern (new build); and The Courtyard House by Jack West (full interior and exterior renovation and hardscape).   

Pictured: Pavilion House. Photo by Coastal Home Photography.

[Recognition]  Brett M. Henson Honored with Rising Star Award at 17th Annual Construction Law Institute

Shumaker Partner Brett M. Henson has been recognized with the prestigious Rising Star Award at the 17th Annual Construction Law Institute. The CLI, a gathering of leading construction practitioners, contractors, and other industry professionals from across the State of Florida, commended Henson's exemplary contributions to the industry. The Rising Star Award is presented annually to a lawyer who is Board Certified in Construction Law and who has made significant contributions to the Construction Law Committee (CLC), which is the largest voluntary bar association of construction lawyers, consisting of over 550 construction lawyers. Board Certified by the Florida Bar in Construction Law, Brett’s dedication to his craft, coupled with his innovative approach to legal challenges, has set him apart within the legal community. Since joining the CLC in 2017, he has chaired several substantive subcommittees, including Publications and Litigation, and currently co-chairs the Legislative Subcommittee, which tracks, reviews, provides technical guidance, and when necessary, proposes legislative solutions for issues facing the construction industry. His commitment to excellence and passion for delivering top-tier legal services have earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and clients alike. With a track record of success in the construction law arena, Brett focuses his practice in the areas of commercial and construction litigation. He devotes a substantial portion of his practice to handling all types of construction disputes, and he counsels and assists residential and commercial property owners, developers, and construction industry professionals in all facets of a construction project, including contract preparation, review, negotiation, and dispute avoidance. Brett also uses his experience and knowledge in resolving claims involving insurance proceeds and insurance coverage. 

[Passing]  Sarasota Jungle Gardens Mourns the Passing of President Dorothy Allyn-Lavick

It is with heavy hearts that Sarasota Jungle Gardens announces the passing of Dorothy Allyn-Lavick, President of Sarasota Jungle Gardens, at the age of 85. Dorothy passed away peacefully on February 22 surrounded by her family. Established in 1939, Sarasota Jungle Gardens has been a beacon of natural wonder, captivating residents and visitors alike for over eight decades. In 1971, Arthur C. Allyn acquired Sarasota Jungle Gardens, and with a passion for entomology shared by his daughter Dorothy, they created a place where people could experience the beauty of nature up close while fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for wildlife. Under Dorothy’s watch, the attraction introduced birds, reptiles, and other members of the wild kingdom to the park, a decision that proved to be immensely popular. Dorothy remained actively involved in operating Sarasota Jungle Gardens for many years, ensuring that her family's legacy continued to thrive. Her son, Chris Lavick, and daughter-in-law, Nancy, took over day-to-day operations of the Jungle Gardens several years ago, while her daughters, Nicole Lavick-Kruzcek and Cheryl Lavick-Mandas, serve on the board. Dorothy was also on the board of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, a zoo on a mountainside overlooking Colorado Springs. The family will continue to honor her memory by upholding the park's nostalgic Florida charm and commitment to providing educational and interactive experiences with animals and nature.Dorothy Allyn-Lavick’s legacy will forever be intertwined with the vibrant tapestry of Sarasota Jungle Gardens. Her passion, dedication, and love for wildlife will continue to inspire generations to come. For more information about Sarasota Jungle Gardens and its history, please visit www.sarasotajunglegardens.com.   

[Hospital News]  3D-Printed Personalized Implant Aims to Give Spinal Patients a Perfect Fit

A new digital and personalized approach to spinal fusion surgery offers renewed hope to patients suffering from scoliosis and painful conditions caused by degeneration and deformities of the spine. Sarasota Memorial Hospital is the first hospital in the region to offer the aprevo® implant, an FDA-cleared patient-specific spine implant used to replace damaged or diseased vertebral discs in the lumbar area of the spine. Unlike traditional off-the-shelf implants made to stock sizes, the aprevo device is personalized to fit the unique, bony ridges of each patient’s spine. By addressing the pathology and matching the anatomy of each individual patient, aprevo® may reduce complications, improve outcomes and lower the cost of care. The key to this approach, according to Ashvin Patel, MD, an orthopedic surgeon and spinal implant specialist who brought the new technology to Sarasota Memorial, is the specialized imaging studies and 3D-printing technology that help the surgeon create a personalized surgical plan to replace a damaged disc with a patient-specific titanium implant designed to provide stability and optimizes alignment of the spine. The device is fused into place with a bone graft to allow adjacent vertebrae to grow into one long bone. While stock implants are available in different sizes, Dr. Patel explains that this new process is very different. "We are now equipped to address the most challenging spinal malformations with implants that are specifically created to address each patient's individual needs. This represents another advanced treatment option to help our patients significantly reduce their pain and get back to the activities they enjoy.” Manufactured by Carlsmed, Inc., the aprevo device is commercially available and covered by most insurance. Originally FDA-cleared approved to treat the lumber area of the spine, the device recently was granted a second “breakthrough device designation” by the FDA in September to develop implants for  patients with cervical spine disease. While the device is already FDA-cleared, Sarasota Memorial is participating in the COMPASS™ Personalized Spine Surgery Study, a multi-center post market observational registry that will track outcomes for two years for eligible patients who wish to enroll in the study. 

[New Homes]  Lee Wetherington Homes Selected Among Preferred Builders for Shellstone at Waterside

Luxury homebuilder Lee Wetherington Homes is proud to announce it has been selected as a preferred home builder for the new Shellstone at Waterside community, located east of Lorraine Road and south of University Parkway in Lakewood Ranch. Developed by Homes by Towne, Shellstone will provide an enviable living experience, featuring amenities designed specifically for modern homebuyers, all conveniently set near Waterside Place — one of Lakewood Ranch’s award-winning town centers. Lee Wetherington Homes will begin building its model home, the Sand Dollar, in the second quarter of 2024 and is expected to open in early 2025 for prospective homebuyers to tour. The Sand Dollar showcases a masterful blend of the Suncoast lifestyle and sleek modern design that highlights the natural Florida scenery found throughout this 682-home development. Homesites nestle against pristine lakefront and preserve views, with each custom home package over $1.5 million. Lee Wetherington Homes’ incomparable design styles are complemented by impeccable amenities found in Shellstone. Shellstone plans to allot 30 homesites to Lee Wetherington Homes. The longtime local homebuilder’s newest floor plans incorporate exquisite features its customers have come to expect, including spacious great rooms designed for casual living and entertaining, dramatic ceiling heights, beautiful kitchens with immense islands, pool baths, sweeping primary suites, private guest retreats, broad closets, and three-car garages. Shellstone will be a maintenance-assisted community for all mowing and landscaping with maintenance and irrigation taken care of by the homeowners' association. The community’s premier amenities are designed for recreation and relaxation. The Summit at Shellstone features a social hall, fitness center, pool and spa, firepit, poolside cabanas, poolside grill, and fitness lawn, and will have a full-time activities director. Shared with Wild Blue at Waterside, where Lee Wetherington Homes is also a trusted and preferred builder, The Midway Sports Complex spans 13 acres and includes eight pickleball courts, six tennis courts, a kayak launch, special events lawn, pro shop, and dog park. Shellstone is strategically situated near Lakewood Ranch’s growing shopping, dining and entertainment options that have garnered national attention. The development is just minutes from Waterside Place’s vibrant town center, which in March won a gold “Best of American Living” award from the National Association of Home Builders for its “Main Street-type setting.” Homebuyers will also have easy access to University Town Center’s shopping and dining offerings in addition to I-75. 

[Survey]  DOH Sarasota Community Well-Being Survey

The Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County (DOH-Sarasota) invites residents to complete the Community Health Well-being Survey. The 2024 Community Health Well-being Survey collects data from Sarasota County residents on nutrition, physical activity, access to care, and mental health. The survey is available online at surveymonkey.com/r/X6SDWMZ. This survey is only for Sarasota County residents that are 18 years of age or older. All survey responses are anonymous and no identifying information is collected. The survey takes approximately 10 minutes to complete. Data collected from the Community Health Well-being Survey will help DOH-Sarasota better understand the needs of the community and will be used to develop a community health improvement plan, addressing the issues residents are most concerned about. The Sarasota County Community Health Well-being Survey results will be shared with the community on the DOH-Sarasota website. The most recent Sarasota County Community Health Well-being Survey was performed in 2019. If you have any questions about the Sarasota County Community Health Assessment, please contact Stephanie Seiffert at 941-861-2779 or Stephanie.Seiffert@flhealth.gov. 

[Tourism]  Visit Sarasota County Announces New Director of Sales and Industry Relations

Visit Sarasota County (VSC) has named Suzanne Hackman as its new Director of Sales and Industry Relations. She is responsible for developing sales strategies to attract overnight business to Sarasota County and managing relationships with local businesses and partners. Hackman has extensive experience in the meetings, events and destination marketing organization (DMO) industries. She most recently served as the Regional Director of Sales for PRA Business Events. Prior to that, she was Vice President of Sales and Business Development for Visit St. Petersburg/Clearwater, an organization she was with for more than 17 years. A graduate of University of South Florida with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and human resource management, Hackman is a Certified Destination Management Executive (CMDE) and has multiple professional industry affiliations including Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA), Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and Society of Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE). 

[New Homes]  Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation Welcomes Neal Communities and Neal Signature Homes to its Builders Give Back Program

The Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation (LWRCF) is pleased to welcome Neal Communities and Neal Signature Homes to its Builders Give Back program. Through this program, which launched in May 2023, builders make a $100 donation per closing to the LWRCF in the name of the new homeowner. Neal Communities and Neal Signature Homes join the other builders currently participating in the program: Anchor Builders, AR Homes, Homes By Towne, John Cannon Homes, Lee Wetherington Homes, Pulte Homes, and Stock Luxury Homes. The program is further supported by Lakewood Ranch Communities, which donates a matching $100 per closing to the LWRCF. The Builders Give Back program benefits the LWRCF by both developing engagement with homeowners in their community and introducing them to local philanthropy, which in turn will help create support for the LWRCF into the future. The mission of the LWRCF, which is financed fully by residents and businesses, is to enhance the quality of life in and near the Lakewood Ranch community by responding to local needs, granting funds, and building lasting relationships. As Lakewood Ranch continues to grow, the needs of the community – including human services, education, animal services, and arts and culture – will also grow. For more information, visit lwrcf.org or call (941) 208-6799. 



[WWR]  2024 Women Who Roar Nominations

2024 WOMEN WHO ROAR NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN | We invite our readers to nominate an individual who best exemplifies the attributes of professional acumen, philanthropic passion, personal integrity and community leadership. Nominations close Friday, April 26, 2024. 

Nominate Here!

[SOON]  BUSINESS: Business Networking and Cowork Session , August 22 – June 25, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Attention all business professionals. Join us for a productive and inspiring coworking event every Tuesday at Out and About Coffee in downtown Sarasota. Take advantage of this opportunity to network and collaborate with fellow professionals in a relaxed and comfortable environment. Limited spots available, so register now on Eventbrite. O and A Coffee Supply, 1316 Main St., Sarasota.

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

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

[SOON]  GALLERY: Yayoi Kusama: A Letter to Georgia O Keeffe at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens , February 11 – June 30, n/a

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens will present Yayoi Kusama: A Letter to Georgia O Keeffe as the eighth iteration of its annual Jean and Alfred Goldstein Exhibition, which examines the work of major artists through the lens of their connection to nature. The exhibition, which will be on view from February 11 through June 30, 2024, at Selby Gardens Downtown Sarasota campus, will explore the unexpected yet profoundly impactful mentoring relationship that developed between iconic artists Yayoi Kusama and Georgia O Keeffe. The theme of the upcoming Goldstein Exhibition is the latest announcement of programming planned for Selby Gardens 50th anniversary season. For more information, visit selby.org.

[SOON]  SEMINAR: The Dawn of Civilization with David Miano , March 17 – April 21, 2-3:30pm
We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new line of live online courses featuring the expertise of Dr. David Miano. In this six-part series, we will study the emergence of the first complex societies in the ancient Near East, beginning with the earliest settlements in the Epipaleolithic period and finishing with the development of the first empire in the mid-third millennium BCE. We will pay special attention to how societies grew across the expanse of time, from small hunter-gatherer villages to large consolidated states, taking a close look at the invention of agriculture, the wheel, bronze metallurgy, writing, literature, and the development of religion and government. To do this, we will rely on material remains, primary source documents, and art, which illuminate the unique features of ancient Near Eastern societies. Enroll now to take advantage of this exclusive opportunity to learn from one of the best, live on Zoom. To enroll and learn more, visit mianoacademy.org.
[SOON]  THEATER: The White Chip , March 20 – April 12, Various times

The 2024 Stage III Series lineup at Florida Studio Theatre features three daring plays penned by award-winning playwrights. The third play in the series, White Chip, follows the character Steven. Steven is on top of the world: he is married, has good friends, and is steps away from his dream job running one of the hottest theatres in the country. He also happens to be an alcoholic spinning out of control. Follow his life from first sip to first love, critical hit to critical care, all the way to rock bottom, where he carves an unusual path to sobriety. Part of The Recovery Project, The White Chip is a wry and wild theatrical journey to recovery. Learn more and purchase tickets at FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Wild About Nature Festival , April 6, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Join us for a day of fun and outdoor adventure at the Wild About Nature Festival on Saturday, April 6, 2024 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. Reconnect with the great outdoors and help foster a love of nature in the next generation as you spend a day in the sun on the beautiful shores of Little Sarasota Bay at Bay Preserve. Families of all ages are encouraged to take part in this fun-filled day of nature-based education and exploration. The wide variety of activities includes dip-netting, face painting, hula-hoop lessons, crafts, games, and more. There will be live music and food trucks making this a guaranteed good time. This is a FREE family festival open to all. Registration is not required. The event will take place at our Bay Preserve headquarters located at 400 Palmetto Ave. in Osprey. For more information, visit conservationfoundation.com.
[SOON]  GALA: Conservation Community Luncheon , April 9, 11:30am
This community-centric luncheon will showcase Conservation Foundations local impact and the urgency and importance of land conservation here in our region. In celebration of twenty years of protecting Southwest Floridas land and water, the not-for-profit land trust asked individuals from across their conservation community to share their thoughts in a new 20th Anniversary video series. Featuring interviews with prominent community members and leaders reflecting on twenty years of collaboration and conservation, this compelling retrospective will premiere at the April luncheon. Immediately following the video premiere, Christine P. Johnson, president of Conservation Foundation will moderate a panel of local experts sharing their unique insights into land conservation, the environment, and our community. This captivating program takes place at 11:30 am on Tuesday, April 9, at Michaels On East. Individual tickets are $50. Sponsorships start at $500. Tickets and sponsorships are available now at conservatonfoundation.com.
[SOON]  MUSIC: George Thorogood and The Destroyers , May 1, 7:30 pm
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is excited to welcome George Thorogood and The Destroyers to Sarasota on Wednesday, May 1, 2024 at 7:30pm. Five decades, 15 million albums and more than 8,000 performances later, few bands can still rock the house like George Thorogood and Destroyers. Tickets start at $41.50 and can be purchased at www.VanWezel.org, by calling the box office at 941-263-6799 or by visiting the box office Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Groups of 10 or more should contact 941-263-6726.
[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Jimmy Failla , May 11, 8pm
The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is excited to welcome Jimmy Failla to Sarasota on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 8pm. Tickets for the Everybody Calm Down Tour go on sale this Friday, February 23 at 10am EST. Tickets start at $20.70 and can be purchased at www.VanWezel.org, by calling the box office at 941-263-6799 or by visiting the box office Monday through Friday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Groups of 10 or more should contact 941-263-6726. Pre-show dining is available through Mattisons at the Van Wezel which is located inside the theatre. Reservations can be made on VanWezel.org or through the box office.
[SOON]  FOOD: Siesta Key Rum Distillery Tours , September 2 – September 30, Various times

Siesta Key Rum runs free year-round tours for guests to learn the story of the craft distillery, the awards they have won and the secret to how they make their rums taste so good. During our 30-45 minute tour we will discuss the following topics: history of Siesta Key Rum, an overview of the awards our small company has won, what makes our rums taste so good, the rum-making process from mashing and fermentation to distillation, barrel aging and bottling of our rums. After the tour, we welcome you to sample a freshly made Siesta Key Rum cocktail, stock up on your favorite rums and browse our gift shop. 2212 Industrial Blvd., Sarasota.

[SOON]  FOOD: Set the Bar Cocktail Competition , April 14, 4-7pm
The highly anticipated Sarasota-Manatee Originals Set the Bar Cocktail Competition is back for a 2024 edition, scheduled for Sunday, April 14, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota. 25 accomplished mixologists, representing restaurants from across Sarasota and Manatee Counties, will present their innovative concoctions in five distinct spirit categories. In addition to a panel of industry experts, attendees will have the opportunity to sample these creations and vote for their favorites, with the judging criteria encompassing flavor, appearance, bartender presentation, and imagination. The competition is partnered with Children First, a local non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the healthy development of children and families. All proceeds from a silent auction will benefit this important cause. Tickets are now on sale for $85 each, with a limited number available. At-the-door tickets will be offered at $95 per person, subject to availability. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit eatlikealocal.com/events/setthebar.
[SOON]  PERFORMANCE: Theresa Caputo Live, The Experience , April 11, 7:30pm

For more than a decade, Theresa Caputo, known worldwide as the Long Island Medium, and star of the new Lifetime Series Raising Spirits, has touched the lives of millions of fans, comforting supporters when they need it most. Now Sarasota fans will get their chance at healing when the acclaimed medium and beloved personality appears live at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall on Thursday, April 11 at 7:30pm. Known for her unique ability to communicate with those who have passed on, Theresa Caputo Live: The Experience brings Theresa face-to-face with her fans as Spirit guides her through the audience. A full-stage video display ensures that everyone in the theater has an up-close experience regardless of seat location. Through personal life stories, candid humor, and intimate details about her gift to communicate with those who have passed, the beloved television personality and best-selling author delivers healing messages to her audience, reassuring them with the revelation that their deceased loved ones are still with them, just in a different way. Recognized as one of the most renowned mediums for over 20 years, Theresa Caputo Live: The Experience is an awe-inspiring event you will not want to miss. Learn more about Theresa at www.theresacaputo.com. Tickets start at $64.23 and can be purchased at www.VanWezel.org, by calling the box office at 941-263-6799 or by visiting the box office. Pre-show dining is available through Mattison’s at the Van Wezel which is located inside the theatre. Reservations can be made on VanWezel.org or through the box office.

[SOON]  FOOD: Norman Love Confections Grand Reopening , April 1, 11:30am
Norman Love Confections just relocated its Sarasota chocolate salon to a new address within The Shoppes at UTC at 8109 Cooper Creek Blvd., University Park. To celebrate, NLC will host a re-grand opening event on Monday, April 1 at 11:30 am. The grand re-opening event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, and remarks from Chef Norman Love and Norman Love Confections CEO Lisa Fisher. Live entertainment and complimentary refreshments will follow the ceremony. The first 25 people to arrive will receive complimentary swag bags. For more information, visit normanloveconfections.com.
[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Family Saturdays , March 23 – May 25, 10am-12pm
Kids and kids at heart can enjoy fun art and nature activities on Saturday mornings, at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens on March 23, April 27, and May 25. Activities will run from 10 a.m. to noon each day, and participation is included in admission to the Gardens, which is always free for Selby Gardens members. These Family Saturdays celebrate the current exhibition on view, Yayoi Kusama: A Letter to Georgia OKeeffe. Several activity stations with different art-focused projects will be set up in the Ann Goldstein Childrens Rainforest Garden during each monthly event. The goal is to invite kids of all ages to explore the artwork of Yayoi Kusama and Georgia OKeeffe through activities that also connect them to the natural environment. Admission to Selby Gardens Downtown Sarasota campus is $26 for adults, $11 for ages 5 to 17, and free for children 4 and under. Tickets may be purchased online in advance at selby.org. Selby Gardens members always receive complimentary admission as well as discounts for guests. To learn more and purchase tickets, visit selby.org.
[SOON]  GALLERY: Through Sorrow into Light , March 14 – April 20, Various times
Art Center Sarasota presents Through Sorrow into Light by Natasha Dikareva features a new body of freestanding and wall-hanging ceramic sculptures, expressing the perspective of the Ukrainian-born artist on the current sociopolitical climate. Artist Talk on Thursday, March 28, 5:30-7 p.m. To learn more, visit www.artsarasota.org or call 941-365-2032.
[SOON]  MUSEUM: Free Second Sundays , March 10 – December 8, 11am-5pm

Enjoy a day of art and family fun at Sarasota Art Museum. On the second Sunday of each month, we offer free admission for visitors, special performances, and art-making activities for the whole family. To learn more, visit sarasotaartmuseum.org.

[SOON]  SCIENCE AND NATURE: Space Saturdays , March 2 – December 7, 10am-2:30pm

Join us for Space Saturday, the first Saturday of every month, as we explore a different topic in the world of astronomy. During Space Saturdays, you will discover an out-of-this-world activity during Backyard Science, formerly Science Sprouts, in The Mosaic Backyard Universe, explore space with a staff astronomer during KidSpace in The Planetarium, and finish your day with an astronomy-themed story during Tales Under the Tree. To learn more, visit bishopscience.org.

[SOON]  THEATER: Ruby , February 28 – April 7, Various times

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe is thrilled to finally bring to the stage the world-premiere musical, Ruby. The show is a musical retelling of the true story of the shocking killing of a White doctor in Live Oak, Fla., and the Black woman, Ruby McCollum, who was accused of his murder. Ruby is a fascinating, powerful story, one that has been touched upon in books and documentary films. Now it finally takes the stage live in what promises to be an emotional musical drama. Performances take place in the Donelly Theatre at 1012 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota. Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, and 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets are $50/adults, $20/students and active military. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit westcoastblacktheatre.org or call the Box Office at 941-366-1505.

[SOON]  SEMINAR: You Are Worthy Life Enrichment Workshop , February 15 – April 11, 6-8pm
The Womens Resource Center presents You Are Worthy, an eight-week series moderated by Chris Florand and Denise Whalin. This in-person series is part of the Womens Resource Center’s life enrichment programs and helps participants improve self-confidence, boundary-setting, and negotiation skills. No program the week of March 14. The program is $25 for all sessions and takes place at WRCs Sarasota office at 340 S. Tuttle Ave. To register, please call 941-256-9721 or visit mywrc.org/youareworthy.
[SOON]  FOOD: Late Night Happy Hour at Geckos on Hillview Street , November 29 – May 31, 10pm-Midnight
Join your friends, after-work buddies and the team at Geckos for our new Late Night Happy Hours. Every Friday and Saturday from 10 pm to Midnight, we will offer food, wine, cocktails and beer specials sure to prolong your weekend fun. Join us and ask your friendly barkeep or server about our Late Night Happy Hours. ONLY at Geckos on Hillview Street in Southside Village. GeckosGrill.com.

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SRQ DAILY is produced by SRQ | The Magazine. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and in the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. Senior Editor Jacob Ogles edits the Saturday Perspective Edition, Letters and Guest Contributor columns.In the CocoTele department, SRQ DAILY is providing excerpts from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. The views expressed by individuals are their own and their appearance in this section does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Ashley Ryan Cannon at 941-365-7702 x211 or via email

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