SRQ DAILY Nov 27, 2024
Wednesday Philanthropy Edition
"This year, we are challenging ourselves to find ways to not only continue to raise funds in the fight against cancer but also to provide more education about cancer risks and create a stronger message about the importance of getting checked for early signs of cancer."
Local KISS fans won’t want to miss KISS Cancer Goodbye III, a three-day KISS-themed music festival held December 6-8 at Harvest House in Sarasota. Organized by Neil McCurry, a local banking executive and bassist for the KISS tribute band KISS America, the event aims to raise funds for breast cancer research. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer in U.S. women, responsible for one-third of all new female cancer cases. In 2024, the ACS projects 42,250 breast cancer deaths.
McCurry was an 11 year old impressionable boy when he first became interested in the music, makeup and props that go along with KISS. A few years later, he started his own KISS band. Almost 20 years later, he’s still rockin’ and rollin’ KISS style. “Some things we outgrow as time goes on, some things we should outgrow and some things we never outgrow.” he says.
KISS Cancer Goodbye III will feature rock legends Eric Singer (KISS drummer 1991-2023) and Bruce Kulick (KISS guitarist 1984-1996) as co-headliners. McCurry’s previous events raised over $100,000 for the ACS, with last year’s Men Wear Pink campaign raising $63,000 locally. McCurry's aim is to raise funds while increasing awareness about cancer risks and early detection. “This year, we are challenging ourselves to find ways to not only continue to raise funds in the fight against cancer but also to provide more education about cancer risks and create a stronger message about the importance of getting checked for early signs of cancer,” he says. A lifelong resident of the area, McCurry enjoys giving back to his community. He expects a larger local turnout this year, noting, “I wanted to create something that adds to the enjoyment of living in Sarasota.”
McCurry, who performs as “Gene Simmons” with full costume and stage antics–which involves hours of preparation–has organized several events over the years. Harvest House, the presenting partner, features a state-of-the-art community center with an elevated stage, advanced sound and lighting, and a 16-ft video wall, creating a rock concert experience with an intimate feel.
Tickets for the event are $59 for all three days or $24.95 per day. For more information and tickets, visit kisscg.com. 
Pictured: Neil McCurry as Gene Simmons raises breast cancer awareness with KISS Cancer Goodby III. Provided photos/Creatures Fest.
The Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that the funds raised to support displaced hospitality workers will be distributed as gift cards on Tuesday, December 3, 2024. The distribution will take place at the Madeira Beach City Hall parking lot from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., or until supplies last. Gift cards will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. Eligible recipients must present a valid driver’s license and proof of prior employment in hospitality on the beaches. Acceptable proof includes, but is not limited to: pay stubs, work uniforms, employee paperwork, or a signed note from a former employer. The Chamber extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to this effort. Your generosity is directly helping those in our hospitality community recover and move forward. For more information email info@tampabaybeaches.com or call 727-360-6957.
The New College of Florida Foundation hosted its 45th Annual Clambake on Thursday, November 7, raising approximately $500,000 to support New College students, faculty and staff. The event was a celebratory evening on the College Hall Bayfront, attracting an audience of more than 200 for an intimate evening of fine dining, philanthropy, and a magnificent pyrotechnic display.
Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation’s Board of Directors recently approved $3.2 million in grants. The funding includes big investments to expand access to quality early learning for vulnerable children and to strengthen programs that help women who are struggling on the edge of poverty achieve financial stability for themselves and their families. Barancik Foundation also awarded major support to enhance environmental resiliency and improve water quality along Sarasota’s bayfront. Barancik Foundation’s fall round of grant awards brings its total grantmaking this year to more than $27.5 million.
The Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation (LWRCF) is pleased to hold Recognition and Refreshments, a complimentary event on December 4 from 5:00-6:30 p.m. at Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, 7051 Wireless Court in Lakewood Ranch. This event will celebrate the individuals and organizations that assist and enhance the Lakewood Ranch community. Enjoy hors d'oeuvres and drinks and help honor those who go above and beyond to make a difference. Space is limited; register at www.eventbrite.com and present your ticket at the door.
The Patterson Foundation has hired Jennifer Abbott as a consultant for its Nonprofit Thrivability initiative. In her new role, she will work with the Foundation’s staff members and consultants to strengthen local nonprofits and the impact of their missions. Jennifer brings over 30 years of expertise to her role at The Patterson Foundation, where her career reflects a deep commitment to fostering strong, respectful, and lasting relationships with nonprofits, donors, volunteers, staff, clients, and community leaders. Most recently, she advanced transformational giving and nonprofit impact in her six years at the Manatee Community Foundation, where she served as interim executive director as well as director of philanthropy. The Patterson Foundation’s Nonprofit Thrivability initiative shares opportunities for organizations to strengthen their mission impact by embracing a thrivable operating model.
Child welfare agency Safe Children Coalition and its partners recently celebrated National Adoption Day (Nov. 23) a little early, with the adoption of 21 children by 16 area families. The event was superhero-themed and included food, music, the telling of an adoption story, and then the finalization of adoptions in several judges' chambers at the Sarasota County courthouse. It was a joyful afternoon as all involved celebrated the children finding their forever families.
Pictured: Happy adoptee Aubrey (in yellow dress) with her family (clockwise from back) Eric Martirano, Nicole Hitzman, Hannah Martirano and Cole Martirano
Florida Studio Theatre (FST) has received a $3,200 grant from the Junior League of Sarasota to support its Gateway Program at CreArte Latino. CreArte Latino, a local nonprofit, fosters bilingual cultural exchange between Latinos/Hispanics and the broader community through arts and education. For more information about the Gateway Program or to support FST’s outreach initiatives, visit floridastudiotheatre.org.
This past Saturday, Safe Children Coalition continued its tradition of distributing hundreds of Thanksgiving meals to its program participants as well as clients of other partnering agencies that serve low-income families. With the support of area philanthropists, SCC has been doing this for nearly 30 years; the effort began as a community service project for teens involved with SCC's Achievers program. Approximately 550 turkeys, along with sides and dessert, were distributed on Saturday.
Embracing Our Differences is pleased to announce the return of “Embracing Kindness,” its collaborative exhibition with Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College of Art and Design. Now in its second consecutive year, this year’s exhibition runs through December 18 on the Museum’s great lawn, parallel to the Tamiami Trail. It features 14 enlarged images of original artwork created by students under the mentorship of renowned Sarasota artist and educator Jeffery Cornwell. Spanning more than two decades, these selected works celebrate the transformative power of kindness and respect, as expressed by young artists from Booker High School’s Visual and Performing Arts program, as well as NewGate School, who participated in Cornwell’s visionary art programs.
Sarasota Art Museum , 1001 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34236
The fundraising event will feature compelling narratives from families whose lives have been transformed by The Florida Center, offering a glimpse into the powerful impact of its programs. The Florida Center for Early Childhood announces its inaugural “Wonder Gala,” a newly reimagined fundraiser poised to make an even greater impact than its predecessor, the Winter Gala.
The Ora, 578 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232
CreArte Latino Cultural Center is excited to announce that it has moved to a new location in Sarasota County. The new facility features enhanced amenities designed to better serve the community as a vibrant cultural center and theater. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is Monday, December 9, from 5 to 6 p.m., and is open to the public.
CreArte Latino, 1913 Northgate Blvd, Sarasota.
The support group is open to anyone with hearing loss, impairment, tinnitus, hearing-assisted device users and caregivers, family or friends. Free lunch is provided for attendees.
If you wish to make a presentation to the Delegation, please submit a Presentation Request Form to my office by Monday, December 2nd, 2024. My office can be reached for the Form at (941) 361-2465 or via email at Andrew.Parker@myfloridahouse.gov for any additional questions.
Sarasota County Commission Chambers,, 1660 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34236
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage month with UnidosNow and The Ringling at the third annual NocheUnidos, a collaboration between The Ringling and UnidosNow. This elegant evening, held in the magical Museum of Art Courtyard, features dining, dancing, music, and fellowship that honor the rich and dynamic cultures that have influenced our Gulf Coast community, including the African diaspora, Indigenous America, and Europe. The event kicks off with festive Puerto Rican rhythms from Bomba Yemayá and parades into the night with an upbeat Mardi Gras spirit captured by the New Orleans-based 79rs Gang. Dress in white to call in the season with elegancia as we come together to honor unity and the riches of our region.
The Ringling, 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
This annual get-together joins community and business leaders; philanthropists; non-profit agencies; foundations; and volunteers in an inspiring celebration of non-profit excellence, mission, and impact: past, present, and future! Our theme this year, DARE TO C.A.R.E.! will celebrate the power of Collaboration, Action, Responsiveness, and Evolution as we celebrate 35 years of services and impact in our community!
Carlisle Inn, 3727 Bahia Vista St, Sarasota, FL 34232
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.
Join us every Saturday for a FUN, hands on exploration into different areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math! Students will take part in unique activities and collaborative challenges plus create take-home projects using high-tech Fab Lab equipment like the vinyl cutter, laser cutter, foam cutter and more.
Suncoast Science Center, 4452 S Beneva Road Sarasota Florida 34233
Season subscriptions and individual tickets are going on sale for Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe's highly-anticipated 25th anniversary season, titled "25 Years of Black Heritage." The season features four mainstage productions - "Soul Crooners Solid Gold Edition," "Fences," "Five Guys Named Moe," and WBTT's first-ever tap dancing musical revue, "Syncopated Avenue"; holiday show is "A Motown Christmas." Visit westcoastblacktheatre.org to learn more about WBTT and to purchase tickets and subscriptions.
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Join us at The Bishop for Gentle Yoga with Manatees! Enjoy tranquil views of the manatees being cared for in the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat while engaging in yoga poses focused on balance, flexibility, and strength. Guests will need to bring their own yoga mats. Proceeds support the rehabilitation and return of manatees to the wild. Group size is limited to 15 participants and advance registration is required. Ages 7 and up welcome!
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Join us at 1pm on the second Thursday of each month for themed adventures at The Bishop! Combine hands-on activities with exciting exploration through our exhibits, planetarium, and manatee habitat. Choose your adventure based on your child’s age group: Junior Explorers (K-3rd grade, ages 5-8): Spark curiosity through hands-on activities and themed adventures perfect for young minds. Discovery Rangers (4th-6th grade, ages 9-11): Dive deeper with interactive exploration and themed adventures designed to challenge and inspire.
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Make your Saturday mornings even more fun! Check out the Backyard Science program for elementary-aged learners at The Bishop’s incredible indoor Mosaic Backyard Universe. This wildly popular learning program launched last year and offers a wide range of activities, observations, and crafts that are sure to excite curiosity and ignite learning. Using unique Museum resources, hands-on activities, and thinking questions within this amazing educational space, you and your child will explore a different topic each month.
The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature, 201 10th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Her journey was as extraordinary as her music. At eighteen, Carole King wrote number one songs for Aretha Franklin and The Drifters. At twenty-nine, she was the voice of a generation. The road along the way was full of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. It wasn’t always perfect, but it was real - and that's what made it beautiful. A smash hit on Broadway and London’s West End, this soaring and inspiring musical features two decades of King’s hits, including “You’ve Got a Friend,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” and “I Feel the Earth Move.”
Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34243
An all-media open juried exhibit featuring the work of our members. Our members are the strength of ArtCenter Manatee, without which we would not exist. With that strength, comes a powerhouse of talent as each year the caliber of work continues to surpass our expectations.
Art Center Sarasota, 209 9th St West Bradenton, FL 34205
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