Latest Events in North Sarasota(August Updated)

The Banned Book Club is led by Bryn Durgin. It is dedicated to reading and protecting the most important and threatened books for our generation. August's pick is Nineteen Minutes , bestselling author Jodi Picoult's most riveting book, a startling and poignant story about the devastating aftermath of a small-town tragedy. "Having the most banned book in the country is not a badge of honor - it's a call for alarm," Picoult said. " Nineteen Minutes is banned not because it's about a school shooting, but because of a single page that depicts a date rape and uses anatomically correct words for the human body." We will meet in person in the loft at our store at The Mark, 117 S. Pineapple Ave. The book club is $17.99, which includes a copy of Nineteen Minutes to be picked up at Bookstore1 any time before our meeting. ABOUT THE BOOK : Sterling is an ordinary New Hampshire town where nothing ever happens--until the day its complacency is shattered by a school shooting. Josie Cormier, the daughter of the judge sitting on the case, should be the state's best witness, but she can't remember what happened before her very own eyes--or can she? As the trial progresses, fault lines between the high school and the adult community begin to show--destroying the closest of friendships and families. Nineteen Minutes asks what it means to be different in our society, who has the right to judge someone else, and whether anyone is ever really who they seem to be. JODI PICOULT received an AB in creative writing from Princeton and a master’s degree in education from Harvard. The recipient of the 2003 New England Book Award for her entire body of work, she is the author of twenty-seven novels, including the #1 New York Times bestsellers House Rules , Handle With Care , Change of Heart , and My Sister’s Keeper , for which she received the American Library Association’s Margaret A. Edwards Award. She lives in New Hampshire with her husband and three children. Visit her website at JodiPicoult.com. About Book Bans: Book bans in public schools have recurred throughout American history, and remain an issue of concern to us at Bookstore1Sarasota. Over the past years, the scope of such censorship has expanded rapidly. In response, PEN America has collated an Index of School Book Bans, offering a snapshot of the trend. The index provides a comprehensive list of books banned in the first half of the 2022-2023 school year. Check it out and join us in our efforts to protect free expression and students' first amendment rights. You can view the index here: https://pen.org/book-bans/pen-america-index-of-school-book-bans-2023-2024/ . ............................................................................................. Click here to go to the Bookstore1Sarasota website. Information Source: Bookstore1Sarasota | eventbrite

Put the art world in focus with Art on Film at SAM. Join us for award-winning documentaries, short films, and biopics that highlight some of our favorite artists, reveal untold histories, and explore what it takes to make it as an artist today. Each screening will include opportunities for discussion and connection among audience members. Eva Hesse (2016) Directed by Marcie Begleiter Running Time: 108 minutes Eva Hesse (1936-1970) is one of America’s foremost postwar artists. Her pioneering sculptures, using latex, fiberglass, and plastics, helped establish the post-minimalist movement. Dying of a brain tumor at age 34, she had a mere decade-long career that, despite its brevity, is dense with complex, intriguing works that defy easy categorization. EVA HESSE , the first feature-length appreciation of her life and work, makes superb use of the artist’s voluminous journals, her correspondence with close friend and mentor Sol LeWitt, and contemporary as well as archival interviews with fellow artists (among them, Richard Serra, Robert Mangold, Dan Graham) who recall her passionate, ambitious, tenacious personality. Art critic Arthur Danto has written that her work is: “full of life, of eros, even of comedy… Each piece vibrates with originality and mischief.” The documentary captures these qualities, but also the psychic struggles of an artist who, in the downtown New York art scene of the 1960s, was one of the few women to make work that was taken seriously in a field dominated by male pop artists and minimalists. Information Source: Sarasota Art Museum | eventbrite

Argus Members $70 Non-Members $80 11:30 - Registration and Networking Noon - Welcome, Lunch, Program followed by Q&A Florida TaxWatch incoming CEO and current Executive VP, Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp. About our featured speaker: Jeff Kottkamp serves as the Florida TaxWatch Executive Vice President and General Counsel. He is an AV Preeminent rated attorney with an undergraduate degree in Political Science from Florida State University and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Florida. He has served on the TaxWatch Board of Trustees for the last ten years has served as Florida's 17th Lieutenant Governor from 2007 until 2011. As Lieutenant Governor, Jeff was Chairman of the Board of Space Florida, Chairman of Florida's Children and Youth Cabinet, Chairman of the Florida Sports Foundation, and had oversight responsibility for the Governor's Office of Drug Control, the Office of Adoption and Child Protection, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, as well as the Governor's Film and Entertainment Office. On June 18, 2008, Governor Kottkamp became Acting Governor pursuant to a Proclamation transferring power under Article IV Section 3(b) of the Florida Constitution. Governor Kottkamp served in the Florida House from 2000–2006. While serving in the House, Jeff was chairman of the Judiciary Appropriations Committee (2006), overseeing a budget of over $1 Billion. He was also chairman of Government Operations Committee (2005), chairman of Judiciary Committee (2002-2004), and vice-chairman of the Rules and Calendar Council (2004-2006). He also served as Deputy Majority Whip. As a member of the Florida Legislature, Kottkamp had a reputation for fighting for lower taxes. He sponsored legislation to repeal the Intangibles Tax. He helped form the Freedom Caucus in the House. Caucus members opposed any efforts to raise taxes. Governor Kottkamp served as Co-Chair of the TaxPayer Protection Caucus. Jeff currently serves as chairman of The Board for The Florida Historic Capitol Foundation board and is a member of The Florida State University Alumni Association National Board of Directors and is a member of the Economic Club of Florida. He and his wife Cyndie live in Tallahassee with their son Jackson. For Sponorship Opportunities, please contact kate@argusfoundation.org Information Source: The Argus Foundation | eventbrite

FREE BOOKS. FREE LUNCH. FREE ADMISSION. This event will feature art activities, music making, and read-aloud featuring a mindful moment. Please Note: Once you RSVP for the event, you will need to fill out a once-a-year registration form. Click here to fill out the registration form. This forms helps us continue to provide free educational programming! Mr. Stevey & Friends is a free community program geared towards pre-school and elementary school aged children and their families to engage in mindfulness activities and create art in all its various forms! Local artists guide participants in activities and make-and-take art projects, and read-alongs. Each event includes a free, healthy lunch for the whole family, and each child will receive free books to help build their at home library, and a special prize to take home at the end of the day! About Mr. Stevey Programs This program is a collaboration with Newtown Nation, the Newtown Farmer’s Market, and Florida Arts and Culture. Mr. Stevey Jones is the 2023 Appleton Award Winner and certified mindfulness teaching artist for the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation. Come and join us! All are welcome! Information Source: Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation | eventbrite

Please join us for the 2025 Fall Counselor Workshop hosted by the Florida Board of Governors and State University System. This event is open to secondary school counselors, college counselors, and community-based organizations supporting high school students applying to college. T he 2025 SUS Fall Counselor Workshop is being hosted by New College of Florida at USF Sarasota. Other locations include USF Tampa, FAU in Boca Raton, and FIU in Miami. The location of this event does not replace the event being hosted in Tampa. USF Sarasota / Manatee is located at 8350 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota FL 34243 Information Source: FIU Office of Admissions | eventbrite

Meet the 2025-2026 Executive Board and Annual Award Recipients at the 2025 Breakfast of Champions: Healthy Start Coalition Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony! E ach year we select individual members or organizations in our community who have distinguished themselves by supporting pregnant women and babies in Sarasota County and honor them as Healthy Start Champions. Who will they be this year? Join us in celebrating them. Tickets are $15! Sponsorships with benefits are available and appreciated: Patron $75, Silver $250, Gold $500 and Platinum $1,000. We hope to have our friends, members, and community partners join us for a lovely morning all about Healthy Start! Information Source: Healthy Start Coalition of Sarasota County, Inc. | eventbrite

Join us to learn what UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County is doing around the region with composting, waste reduction and recycling. This workshop blends indoor lessons with outdoor, hands-on activities in our compost demonstration area, and includes live demonstrations of our biogas and vermicomposting programs. Please register for this event ONLY at ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com rather than any third-party websites, as they are not affiliated with our classes and events. Attendees will learn the basics of home composting, the benefits of composting, and how to build a home compost system. Plus, attendees will have the option to purchase a GEOBIN compost bin (see registration options, below). NOTE: There are two registration options for this workshop: Workshop PLUS a GEOBIN compost bin: $25 registration (includes bin cost), which must be made in advance of the workshop. Workshop with no GEOBIN: Cost is free. Make 2025 your year to start composting and reducing your impact on the environment! INSTRUCTOR: Randall Penn, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County waste reduction agent For questions or further information, please call 941-861-5000 or email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu . If you require special accommodations to attend one of our events, please contact us in advance at 941-861-5000 or sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu . NOTE: Classes and events may be canceled at any time due to low registration or other circumstances, with full refunds issued for paid events. Similar classes or events often are offered on future dates. --- Type: Take a Class Topic: Waste Organization name: UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County Information Source: UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County | eventbrite

FREE BOOKS. FREE LUNCH. FREE ADMISSION. This event will feature art activities, music making, and read-aloud featuring a mindful moment. Please Note: Once you RSVP for the event, you will need to fill out a once-a-year registration form. Click here to fill out the registration form. This forms helps us continue to provide free educational programming! Mr. Stevey & Friends is a free community program geared towards pre-school and elementary school aged children and their families to engage in mindfulness activities and create art in all its various forms! Local artists guide participants in activities and make-and-take art projects, and read-alongs. Each event includes a free, healthy lunch for the whole family, and each child will receive free books to help build their at home library, and a special prize to take home at the end of the day! About Mr. Stevey Programs This program is a collaboration with Newtown Nation, the Newtown Farmer’s Market, and Florida Arts and Culture. Mr. Stevey Jones is the 2023 Appleton Award Winner and certified mindfulness teaching artist for the Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation. Come and join us! All are welcome! Information Source: Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation | eventbrite

This experience is designed to Raise our Frequencies! This is a full-spectrum, soul-level reset, designed to help you tune inward, align your energy, and unlock the most radiant, powerful version of yourself. We believe true transformation begins from within. That is when we heal our bodies, minds, and energetic field. Our lives on the outside start to reflect the power, peace, and passion we have cultivated inside. We will be blending healing, integrated health, high-vibration energy work, & aligned connection to create an afternoon that will leave you glowing-inside & out. Frequency-Raising Experiences You'll Be Part Of: Alignment & Authenticity, Realign your energy & calm the nervous system, Clear energetic blockages, Restore balance, Conscious breathing techniques to release trauma, energize the body and raise your vibration, Tap into intuition, Reset your mindset, Elevate inner awareness, Emotional healing and clarity, Detox & Recharge the body while booking cellular energy, Shift limiting beliefs, Reawaken feminine energy. Ticket Includes: Food & drink (1 complimentary drink + Hors d’oeuvres) DJ & Rooftop entertainment PowerPlay workbook Swag bag full of goodies! Interactive Frequency-Raising Experiences mentioned above. Interactive and Engaging Speakers: Hear from industry integrated Health experts, Sound Bowl Immersion Activations, High Vibe Comedian, and more surprises, coming soon. Each attendee will receive an interactive Powerplay Workbook, ensuring you leave with actionable insights, and memorable impacts from the event. Attire Be authentically YOU, (this is a roof -top outdoor event). Flow & wear what makes you feel most comfortable, and free. Experience Join us for an exclusive Wellness event at the Art Ovation, in Downtown Sarasota, Florida. Be ready to make Authentic Connections & Collaborate. Check out the Vendors, Delicious Bites, Drinks, and more! By purchasing a ticket to this event, you consent to the use of your name, likeness, and image in photographs, videos, or other recordings taken during the event for marketing and promotional purposes. This includes, but is not limited to, use in online and print advertisements, social media, and other promotional materials. Your purchase of a ticket signifies your agreement to these terms. Information Source: WPF: Gina Tedesco & Julianna Rose Bertrand | eventbrite

Ticket Price Includes: Exclusive rooftop access for fireworks show All Day Golf Pass Unlimited access to the gaming area Light Bites Fireworks start approximately at 9 PM Information Source: PopStroke | eventbrite

Join us on Thursday, July 4th, 2024 at 7:00 PM at The Westin Sarasota for an evening of Stars, Stripes, and Rooftop Delights . Celebrate Independence Day in style under the stars with panoramic views of Downtown Sarasota. Dance to the beats of the DJ, and immerse yourself in the stunning panoramic views from Sarasota's tallest rooftop. Included in your ticket cost is a BBQ buffet. Limited tickets are available, and they will go fast – secure your spot now for a Fourth of July celebration you won't want to miss! VIP Reserved Seating is available. Please contact us at brendan.obrien@westinsarasota.com for more information. *View of fireworks is not guaranteed. Information Source: The Westin Sarasota | eventbrite

Full Title: Planning, Conservation, and Support: The GCI’s Work at the Eames House in Los Angeles Chandler McCoy, AIA, LEED AP, Paul Getty Trust Tuesday, April 8, 2025 6:00pm-7:00pm McCulloch Pavilion, 265 S. Orange Ave Praking available in the lots East of the Pavilion and South of Morrill Street About the Lecture Since 2012, the Getty Conservation Institute has been providing conservation assistance to the Eames Foundation in Los Angeles to help support their stewardship of the house of Charles and Ray Eames. This iconic work of modern architecture, from 1949, was designed by two of the most influential American designers of the 20 th century and is now open to the public, serving as a testament to their lives and their work. From its inception, it was an innovative statement about what modernist residential architecture could be, using new and experimental materials, colors and textures, carefully sited to respond to the surrounding landscape. At 75 years of age, it suffers from wear and tear, deterioration of materials, and threats from external environmental factors. Working with the Eames Foundation coincided with the GCIs launch of its Conserving Modern Architecture Initiative (CMAI), a comprehensive program to support the practice of conserving modern heritage. The CMAI team has done archival research, scientific investigations and environmental studies to understand issues and future problems that may occur at the Eames House and solutions can be found. In 2018 the GCI completed a Conservation Management Plan for the Eames House, a far-reaching tool that gives the Eames Foundation a roadmap to guide their future work, a journey they have recently started. This lecture will talk about what lessons have been learned in the process of working on the Eames House that can be useful to others managing and protecting works of modern architecture, and how the conservation management plan has paid off for the Eames Foundation. About the Speaker Chandler McCoy AIA manages the Conserving Modern Architecture Initiative at the Getty Conservation Institute in Los Angeles whose mission is to advance the practice of conserving modern heritage. This includes developing and delivering educational and training programs, managing field projects, and publishing technical books related to conserving modern heritage. He is one of the authors of the Eames House Conservation Management Plan. Prior to joining the GCI in 2015 he was Associate Director for Planning and Design at the Presidio Trust in San Francisco. He is a registered architect and received his BS in Architecture from the University of Virginia and Master of Architecture degree from Columbia University’s GSAPP in New York City. He holds a certificate in Architectural Conservation from ICCROM in Rome. He serves on the board of the Barnsdall Art Park Foundation in Los Angeles. IMAGE CREDITS: Both feature images: Photos by Julius Shulman, copyright J.Paul Getty Trust, Getty Research Institute, Los Angeles (2004.R. 10AIA LEED Information Source: Architecture Sarasota | eventbrite

Welcome to the Silent Disco full pink moon ecstatic dance at sunset at the beach event! Join us at South Lido Key Beach Park on the Gulf for a magical evening of dancing under the full pink moon. Get ready to groove to the beats of our silent disco while watching the sun set over the beautiful Gulf of Mexico. This unique experience will leave you feeling ecstatic and connected to nature. Don't miss out on this unforgettable event! Information Source: Ecstatic Dance Sarasota with dj kat | eventbrite

Matter of Mind: My Alzheimer's. This event is a showing of a WEDU/PBS short film followed by a Q&A session facilitated by Pam Polowski, CADDCT, CDT, CDP, CMDCP, Cognitive Health Practitioner with Homewell Care Services, and SFC Adult Day Services Director Joni Ricker, in partnership with Larry Winegar of WEDU. Sarasota Activity Center Café, 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota The film comes from Indie Lens who support pop-up in-person screenings in the community to promote the film. 30 minutes with discussion to follow. RSVP requested here. All are welcome to join us! Refreshments served. Business Development Manager Georgann Nugent, gnugent@friendshipcenters.org Pam Polowski also facilitates a special monthly Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) group at Senior Friendship Centers, Sarasota Campus, 1820 Brother Geenen Way, the 2nd Wednesday of each month, 1:30-3pm in the Caregivers Resource Center. RSVP kindly required (941) 556-3250. Information Source: Senior Friendship Centers | eventbrite

Thread Playback Theater: Your Stories Join us for an unforgettable evening at Westcoast Black Theater Troupe, where your stories come to life! Our actors will improvise scenes based on your experiences, creating a unique show right before your eyes. Whether you have a funny anecdote, a heartwarming memory, or a wild adventure to share, we want to hear it! Sit back, relax, and watch your stories transform into captivating performances. Don't miss out on this interactive and engaging event! Information Source: Olga Sanachina | eventbrite

Join docent Norman Burr on a 60-minute fascinating trek through our historic nature preserve. Norman will discuss the geologic history of Florida and how plant life evolved, with examples from our diverse collection of rare, beautiful, and exotic plants. Information Source: Elling Eide Center | eventbrite

Join our expert panel on a journey into insurance talent attraction and retention. Discover the power of dialogue and hands-on learning for a thriving workforce. Uncover the value of mentoring and work-life balance. Shape the future of insurance with our insightful discussion. Information Source: Sarasota Bradenton Claims Association | eventbrite

Silent Disco full moon beach Ecstatic Dance at sunset with dj kat Come join us for a magical evening of dancing under the full moon at South Lido Key Beach Park on the Gulf . Get ready to groove to the beats of dj kat as the sun sets over the horizon. This Ecstatic Dance event is a unique experience that allows you to connect with nature, music, and yourself. Don't miss out on this unforgettable night of dancing and celebration! Please note: Our spot on South Lido Beach Park may be open.....but we arent sure yet. So, texting dj Kat at 941-928-8866 to confirm your spot and be on list is important. If the park is closed still from hurricane we will go to spot between two life guard stations next to LIdo Beach Resort. .....We will open at 6pm with 30 minutes of yin yoga and then set intentions and guidelines ...then the music begins. This dance is an intentional space....it's ceremony....please come respecting the container and our community connection. Information Source: Ecstatic Dance Sarasota with dj kat | eventbrite

This Easter Weekend will be like no other! Come and catch a vibe!!! Information Source: D.E. Events | eventbrite

Join us for a fun Earth Day celebration! Families will learn a little bit about how cats affect Earth and then paint a cat-themed Earth Day scene. All supplies will be provided. Paintings will decorate Cat Depot's Community Center. Bring your creativity and love of cats with you! Information Source: Cat Depot | eventbrite

The Banned Book Club is led by Bryn Durgin. It is dedicated to reading and protecting the most important and threatened books for our generation. April’s pick is is The Things They Carried , Tim O’Brien’s ground-breaking meditation on war, memory, imagination, and the redemptive power of storytelling. The book has been challenged because of profanity three times. Read more here: https://pen.org/on-tim-obriens-the-things-they-carried/ . We will meet in person in the loft at our store at The Mark, 117 S. Pineapple Ave. The book club is $19, which includes a copy of The Things They Carried to be picked up at Bookstore1 any time before our meeting. About the book : The Things They Carried is a classic work of American literature that has not stopped changing minds and lives since it burst onto the literary scene. It depicts the men of Alpha Company: Jimmy Cross, Henry Dobbins, Rat Kiley, Mitchell Sanders, Norman Bowker, Kiowa, and the character Tim O’Brien, who has survived his tour in Vietnam to become a father and writer at the age of forty-three. Taught everywhere—from high school classrooms to graduate seminars in creative writing—it has become required reading for any American and continues to challenge readers in their perceptions of fact and fiction, war and peace, courage and fear and longing. The Things They Carried won France's prestigious Prix du Meilleur Livre Etranger and the Chicago Tribune Heartland Prize; it was also a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Critics Circle Award. Tim O’Brien received the National Book Award for Going After Cacciato . Among his other books are The Things They Carried , Pulitzer Finalist and a New York Times Book of the Century, and In the Lake of the Woods , winner of the James Fenimore Cooper Prize. He was awarded the Pritzker Literature Award for lifetime achievement in military writing. About Book Bans: Book bans in public schools have recurred throughout American history, and remain an issue of concern to us at Bookstore1Sarasota. Over the past years, the scope of such censorship has expanded rapidly. In response, PEN America has collated an Index of School Book Bans, offering a snapshot of the trend. The index provides a comprehensive list of books banned in the first half of the 2022-2023 school year. Check it out and join us in our efforts to protect free expression and students' first amendment rights. You can view the index here: https://pen.org/book-bans/pen-america-index-of-school-book-bans-2023-2024/ . . ................................................................................................. All signed up and unable to go? Please let us know! Seating is limited and there may be people on our waitlist who would like to to take your place. Please send an email to bryn@sarasotabooks.com ASAP and hopefully we'll see you next time. Click here to go to the Bookstore1Sarasota website. Information Source: Bookstore1Sarasota | eventbrite

Join Jamie DeRuyter, Department Head of the Entertainment Design program at Ringling College of Art and Design, in a discussion about the exhibition Future Now: Virtual Sneakers to Cutting-Edge Kicks . As this talk will be exploring works in the galleries, there will be standing room only. About Jamie DeRuyter Jamie DeRuyter earned a BFA in Computer Animation from Ringling College of Art and Design. Jamie joined Ringling College as faculty in 2002 and has maintained an active professional practice creating animation and visual effects for multiple experiences and theme park rides including The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Twister Ride It Out, Revenge of The Mummy, Dueling Dragons, The Simpsons and Antarctica: Empire Of The Penguin. He has created animation and visual effects for several game titles including Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Trilogy, the award winning remake of Shadow of the Colossus, and Demon's Souls. Now as Department Head, Jamie has led the development of our newest major at Ringling College. Entertainment Design teaches students to conceive, visualize, and realize innovative design solutions that bring immersive entertainment experiences to life. He is currently designing exhibits for the museum industry including: The Glass Barn, The International Spy Museum and The Frost Science Center. Information Source: Sarasota Art Museum | eventbrite

A much-loved Florida writer chronicles the quirky, touching, and thought-provoking stories of the Sunshine State today. “A sharp snapshot of the current state of the state as well as a deep dive into some of the darker corners of its past. . . . Whether you’re a native Floridian or you just landed in the state, you’ll learn a lot you didn’t know from Welcome to Florida from a writer whose frequent, funny exasperation with the place comes from his deep love for it.”— Bay Magazine “Showcases the many varieties of flora, fauna, and interesting characters that inhabit our state.”— Miami New Times “Craig Pittman is not just a gifted writer; he is a superb historian with a quirky, insightful sense of humor that at times rivals Mark Twain. Welcome to Florida is destined to become a classic; a Blue Highways guide to the backcountry places and characters that reflect the complexities of this unusual state.”—Randy Wayne White, New York Times bestselling author of the Doc Ford series “A wonderfully entertaining and informative book by a deft and deeply knowledgeable writer. Florida abounds with fascinating stories, and nobody tells them better than Craig Pittman.”—Dave Barry, New York Times bestselling author of Best. State. Ever.: A Florida Man Defends His Homeland “Craig Pittman is a Florida treasure, a truly gifted author and journalist with an eye for the absurd. Whether you love or hate the Sunshine State, you’re gonna dig this book!”—Jason Vuic, author of The Swamp Peddlers: How Lot Sellers, Land Scammers, and Retirees Built Modern Florida and Transformed the American Dream “This Florida tell-all covers all the bases—the good, the bad, and the outrageous. It should be passed out, along with the free orange juice, at the state’s welcome centers and assigned to anyone making decisions about Florida’s future.”—Janine Farver, former executive director of Florida Humanities “Demonstrates what many of us have known for years: Craig Pittman is Florida’s best environmental journalist.”—Art Levy, author of Made in Florida: Artists, Celebrities, Activists, Educators, and Other Icons in the Sunshine State ABOUT THE BOOK: In WELCOME TO FLORIDA , award-winning investigative journalist and New York Times bestselling author Craig Pittman introduces readers to the people, creatures, places, and issues that make up the Florida of today. Through lively stories told with cutting insight and always with a joke at the ready, Pittman captures the heart of what he calls “The Most Interesting State.” From threats to Florida’s environment to a hippo that became an official state citizen, these tales range from the moving to the bizarre. Pittman follows the escapades of crime writers, hungry predators, politicians, and developers across the state. At the core of this collection is a deep sense of admiration for the resilience of those who live here. Again and again, this book showcases the power of “ordinary Floridians fighting to save some part of the state that they hold dear.” Often, that means folks rallying to protect the state’s unique natural landscape; sometimes it means former CIA agents incorporating their own island community. WELCOME TO FLORIDA is both a love letter to and hilarious deep dive into the nation’s fastest-growing state. Imbued with Pittman’s characteristic humor and undeniable fondness for both the weird and wonderful parts of his home, this book shows why, despite some of its reputations, Florida continues to prove irresistible. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: CRAIG PITTMAN is a native Floridian and an award-winning journalist. He wrote for the Tampa Bay Times for 30 years and now writes for the Florida Phoenix . He is the author of several books, including the New York Times bestseller OH, FLORIDA! HOW AMERICA'S WEIRDEST STATE INFLUENCES THE REST OF THE COUNTRY; THE STATE YOU'RE IN: FLORIDA MEN, FLORIDA WOMEN, AND OTHER WILDLIFE; and THE SCENT OF SCANDAL: GREED, BETRAYAL, AND THE WORLD'S MOST BEAUTIFUL ORCHID. He is cohost of the Welcome to Florida podcast. Pittman was named a Florida Literary Legend by the Florida Heritage Book Festival in 2020. Information Source: Bookstore1Sarasota | eventbrite

Join us for a Bonsai Lesson at Big Top Brewing! (Please provide your ticket confirmaton email or a print out to claim your beer) Are you looking to learn the art of bonsai in a fun and relaxed environment? Look no further! Our Bonsai Lesson at Big Top Brewing is the perfect event for bonsai enthusiasts aged 21 and over. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of bonsai as our experienced instructors guide you through the process of creating and caring for your very own miniature tree. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to learn a new skill and connect with fellow bonsai lovers. Mark your calendars for Mon Apr 21 2025 at 10:00 AM and join us at Big Top Brewing for an unforgettable experience! ticket includes: One beer is included in your ticket, the second beer is dicounted Gloves Soil Pots Trees to be worked on Shears, pebbles, wire, etc. Guests will take home their bonsai tree Information Source: Lous Bonsai | eventbrite

If you consider yourself a connoisseur of spirits, you’ll not want to miss our Craft Spirits Tasting event! Delight in exploring hard-to-find spirit varieties while nibbling on savory lite bites. From smooth whiskeys and complex bourbons to vibrant tequilas and crips gins, it's a flavor experience that will reinvent the way you think about fine spirits. Bring your friends and enjoy an evening of laughter and luxurious libations! Over 50 different Classic and Craft Spirits will be showcased, including award-winning spirits from: BOURBON/RYE: Angel's Envy Bardstown Bulleit Calumet Farm Heaven Hill Hogsworth Michter's Noah’s Mill Penelope Rowan’s Creek Willet Woodford Reserve Yellowstone SCOTCH/WHISKEY: Balvenie Glenfiddich Glenmorangie Oban Yamazaki Hibiki Toki TEQUILA/RUM: Aguaviva Casamigos Hiatus La Gritona Lost Explorer Ocho Partida Siempre GIN: Barr Hill Bluecoat Drunshambo Inverroche With more to come!!!!!!! Information Source: Michael's Wine Cellar | eventbrite

Just Focus Math Trail at Alta Vista’s Mini-World Expo 2025 Join us for an exciting, hands-on math adventure at Alta Vista’s Mini-World Expo 2025. Become a Math Trailblazer and tackle interactive challenges like our minute math matching game, estimation station, and measurement activities. Complete the trail, sharpen your problem-solving skills, and earn a prize at the finish line. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the wonders of math in a fun and engaging way! Information Source: Just Focus Online Learning | eventbrite

Suncoast Boat Show will feature various types and styles of all Cruisers, Runabouts, Bowriders, Sportfishers, Center Consoles, Motor Yachts, Inflatables and more. Shop tents full of electronics, accessories, jewelry, art, and clothing all in a festive atmosphere with food, drinks, music and much more. Profile for exhibit include Advanced water treatment systems, Boats - work boats, canoes, row boats, Deck fittings, Diving products & accessories, Fishing products, Luxury yachts, speed, power & pleasure boats, Marine accessories, Boat & yacht insurance, Boat charters, Yacht design/construction, Boat chandlers, Boat exhibition companies & boat show organizers, repair yards, Cruise holiday operators & aqua tourism service providers, Sailing, boating & water sports clubs. Information Source: Informa Markets | expotobi

Welcome to the ultimate event featuring **Spread Eagle**, **Motley Krue**, and **Skidd Row**! Get ready to rock out on Sat, Apr 26, 2025 at 6:00 PM at 975 Cattlemen Rd. Join us for a night of high-energy performances that will transport you back to the glory days of rock 'n roll. Don't miss out on this epic show that will have you singing along and banging your head all night long! Information Source: Big Top Live | eventbrite

Viewing coastal architecture via kayak is an ideal way to experience what can’t be seen from the street. North Siesta Key paddlers will get views of select Sarasota School Houses: Twitchell & Rudolph’s Revere Quality House (1948) and Healy Guest House (1950) (“Cocoon House”); Rudolph’s Cohen Residence (1955); Carl Abbott’s Dolphin House (1997); Butterfield Lagoon Residence (2015); Guy Peterson’s SRQ Residence (2021); HIVE Architect’s Shibusa ( 2020). Requires previous kayaking experience. Kayaking route is approximately 2 hours. Not advised for those with health conditions; no children under age 6. Information Source: Architecture Sarasota | eventbrite

21st Century Paris: Magnificent New Architecture with Sam Lubell Lecture and Book Signing Monday, April 28, 2025 5-6pm - wine and hors d'oeuvres pre-talk reception with the author 6-7pm - Sam Lubell Lecture McCulloch Pavilion, 265 S Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236 Parking is availble in the lots East of the Pavilion and South of Morril Street Member: $20, Not-Yet Members: $30 DETAILS Sam Lubell, Author of the book Paris 2000+: New Architecture, discusses the most remarkable architecture built in the city since the turn of the Millennium. For a city renowned for its cultural traditions and historic structures, the French capital has hosted some of the most ambitious, radical new buildings and infrastructure in the world. Join Sam on an extraordinary virtual tour of 21st century architecture in Paris! Born in Paris, Sam Lubell has written more than ten books about architecture for Phaidon, Rizzoli, The Monacelli Press, and Metropolis Books. He writes for The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, Fast Company, Architectural Digest, Wallpaper, Dwell, and other publications. He has co-curated four major architecture exhibitions and taught at Syracuse University School of Architecture, Columbia University GSAPP, and Arizona State University The Design School. A wine and hors d'oeuvres pre-talk reception with the author will take place from 5pm-6pm. Copies of Lubell's books Paris 2000+: New Architecture and Mid-Century Modern Architecture Travel Guide East Coast USA will be available for purchase and signing by the auther! ABOUT THE ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE Our mission is to promote knowledge and appreciation of the French language and Francophone culture, and to encourage understanding of and friendship with the French-speaking world. Towards that mission we know that for more than a century, an ever-increasing number of French language students of all ages and origins choose to join and study at their local Alliance Française. Our Alliance Française de Sarasota is part of the world's largest network of French language schools and cultural centers with over 830 independently run chapters established in 133 countries that reach over 550,000 students. The Fondation des Alliances Françaises, based in Paris, is the moral and legal compass of all the Alliances Françaises chapters around the world. With this special collaboration, we are able to offer effective language courses as well as a wide range of Francophone educational and social activities such as our Club Littéraire (monthly book club), Casse-crôute (weekly conversation group), Salon Series (lectures, workshops, webinars, performances), and Apéros (monthly French Happy Hour). We know that learning and using French is most effective when it is reinforced by relevant French cultural activities. TheAlliance Française de Sarasota is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit Florida corporation and part of the Federation des Alliances Françaises USA which supports its members to fulfill their mission. In the U.S. the Délégation Générale de la Fondation Alliance Françaiselocated in Washington, D.C, serves the entire network of U.S. Alliances Françaises. Alliance Française chapters offer hundreds of cultural and social events per year, enabling them to establish global partnerships and to promote local Francophone talents or artists from France or Francophone regions (Québec, Francophone Africa, Haiti, the Caribbean, etc.). As a result of the diversity of these partnerships, the Alliance Française offers a chance for speakers (lecturers, writers, artists, business owners, associations) to make contact with new audiences, including not only members and students of Alliance chapters but also students, professors and researchers from American universities (Departments of Romance Languages or French Studies, Political Science and European Studies, Law, Theatre Studies, etc.), students in French and French-American schools, international schools and art schools, members of foreign cultural centers, Francophone and Francophile communities associated with French companies, French-American Chambers of Commerce (FACC) and audiences of theaters, festivals, and museums. https://www.afsarasota.org/en/cultural-events/upcoming-events/#/ Information Source: Architecture Sarasota | eventbrite