2006-2007 Charity Register Calendar

SEPTEMBER 2006

Tidewell Hospice and Palliative Care • Chapeaus et Champagne University Club, $75. (941) 923-5822

9 Humane Society of Sarasota County • Second Annual Ron Gordon Charity Golf Tournament Stoneybrook Golf and Country Club, $65 per player, $260 per team. (941) 955-4131

9 Lighthouse of Manasota • Dr. James Morrish Sr. Memorial Golf Challenge IMG Academies Golf & Country Club at El Conquistador, $150 per player. (941) 359-1404

15 SOULSPEAK/SOULMOVES • Poetry of the Women of Sarasota CD and Video Premiere 535 Columbia Court. (941) 366-6468

16 Miss Latina Program • Women of the Millennium Gala Dinner Honoring Hispanic teachers, principals and an extraordinary woman. $50. (941) 966-2820

22 Manasota Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC) • Ivan Canuteson Memorial Golf Tournament IMG Academies Golf & Country Club at El Conquistador. (941) 752-2976

23 Arthritis Foundation/Southwest Region Masquerade Ball Bid on a date package with a bachelorette, or keep the package for you and your significant other. Longboat Key Club, $100 in advance; $125 at the door. (800) 741-4008 ext. 227

26 Westcoast Center for Human Development • Founder’s Fund-raising Luncheon $50. (941) 365-7543

30 American Heart Association • American Heart Walk Siesta Key Beach. (941) 927-4997

MORE SEPTEMBER EVENTS:

Family Network on Disabilities of Manatee/Sarasota • Christmas Wreath Sales Fresh, live Wisconsin wreaths, August–September. $25–$35. Call (941) 928-0682 to order.

Historic Spanish Point • 25/90 Chef’s Challenge Chef Cliff Whatmore of Southgate Gourmet challenges Sarasota chefs to create two dinners paired with two 90-point wines. Diners pick the winner. $25. (941) 966-5214

OCTOBER 2006

5 NAACP Sarasota County Branch • Freedom Awards Banquet Annual recognition of citizens for their outstanding contributions. Hyatt Sarasota, $75. (941) 355-2097

5 United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota-Manatee • Someone’s in the Kitchen with Tommy & Phil Michael’s On East. (941) 957-3599

6 Gulfcoast Legal Services • 25th Anniversary Awards Dinner Lakewood Ranch Country Club, $100. (941) 366-1746

6–8 and 13–15 The Great Outdoors Conservancy • Oktoberfest Suncoast Bavarian folk festival. Sarasota Fairgrounds, adults $8, children 12 and under free. (941) 708-3456

7 Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Florida Suncoast Affiliate • Race for the Cure Nationally sanctioned 5K race. Vinoy Park, St. Petersburg, $20 prior to September, $25 after Sept. 1. (877) 506-6927

9–11 Ringling School of Art and Design • 2006 Sarasota International Design Summit The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. (941) 351-5100

13 Pines of Sarasota Foundation • Arthur Goldberg Appreciation Roast Sahib Temple. (941) 955-6293

14 Southeastern Guide Dogs • Celebrate Freedom Black-Tie Gala Lakewood Ranch Country Club. (941) 729-5665

14 Senior Friendship Centers • Swinging with Friends Venice Golf Tournament Mission Valley Golf & Country Club. (941) 955-2122

14 Suncoast Center for Independent Living • Fund-raising banquet and car raffle Win a 2006 Nissan Z Roadster Enthusiast or $25,000 cash. Hyatt Sarasota, $75, $100 donation for raffle ticket. (941) 351-9545

14 Trinity Charities • AIDS Walk USF/New College of Florida campus. (941) 355-0847

19 Forty Carrots Family Center • Wine, Women & Shoes Luncheon, wine tasting and fashion show showcasing nine women in wine and nine shoe designers, plus an Evening Wine Class. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota and The Tasting Room, $125 and $50. (941) 365-7716

20 Dreams are Free School at Bishop Nevins AcademyBlue Grass BBQ Bishop Nevins Academy. (941) 366-4010

20 Forty Carrots Family Center • Women & Money: The Savage Truth Financial seminar The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $49–$59. (941) 365-7716

20 Make-a-Wish Foundation of Sarasota/Tampa Bay • Shining Star Award Celebration Michael’s On East, $100. (941) 926-9474

20 Manasota Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC) • A Taste of Motown 2 Bradenton City Centre. (941) 752-2976

20–21 Greater Sarasota Junior Golf Association • Legends golf tournament Laurel Oak Country Club, $150 for dinner, dance and golf. (941) 366-0445

20–21 St. Stephen’s Episcopal School • Athletic Booster Bonanza Weekend To benefit the athletic programs of the school. (941) 746-2121

21 American Cancer Society—Sarasota Unit • Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk Sarasota Polo Club. (941) 365-2858

21 Community AIDS Network • CAN Dance Ballroom championship dancing event. Chelsea Center, $225. (941) 366-0461

21 John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art • The UnGala Gala Ringling Museum, $250. (941) 359-5700 or (941) 351-1660

24 United Nations Association of the United States America (UNA-USA)—Sarasota-Manatee Chapter • U.N. Day Celebration Luncheon, movies and speeches. Michael’s On East. (941) 359-9760

26 American Jewish Committee—West Coast Florida Chapter • Civic Achievement Award Dinner Michael’s On East, $150. (941) 365-4955

26 Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA)—Sarasota Chapter • 21st Annual Taste of Sarasota Area restaurants present samples of their cuisine. (941) 320-3775

27 Hispanic-American Center • Noche de Celebracion Silent auction, dinner and dancing, special Latino musical presentation. Michael’s On East, $150. (941) 955-3934

28 ALSO Out Youth • Kate Clinton Concert Flanzer JCC, $45 and $60. (941) 951-2576

28 Laurel Civic Association • Cool Caribbean Nights Silent auction, dinner, dance. Venice Community Center, $75. (941) 483-3338

28 Mote Marine Laboratory • Oceanic Evening Black-tie gala to benefit Mote’s capital campaign. Mote Aquarium Courtyard, $200. (941) 388-4441

28 Renaissance Manor • First Annual and Best-Ever Scavenger Hunt Renaissance Manor, $250 via pledges. (941) 365-8645

28 West Coast Civic Ballet • Scary Saturday Night Out Manatee Civic Center, $60 dinner and performance, $20 performance only. (941) 358-8349

30 Junior Achievement • Dooley Mack Golf Tournament (941) 350-0543

MORE OCTOBER EVENTS

Family Network on Disabilities of Manatee/Sarasota • Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival Children’s game area. Hunsader Farms. (941) 928-0682

FACE of Sarasota • Cars and Rods Pumpkin Run Car show, live and silent auctions. Hampton Inn, Venice. (941) 955-9250

NOVEMBER 2006

1 Salvation Army Sarasota Area Command • The Holiday Feast Holiday cooking demonstration. Michael’s On East, $55 and up. (941) 954-4673

3 North Port Area Art Guild • Starry, Starry Night Dinner, dance, art gala and auction. Mullen Center, City Hall Complex, North Port, $25. (941) 423-0555

3 Sarasota Reading Festival • A Novel Affair Author Reception. Selby Public Library, $50–$1,000. (941) 906-1733

3 Asolo Theatre Company • Viva Las Asolo Gaming tables, Texas hold ’em, Las Vegas-style revues benefiting the artistic and educational programs. FSU Center for the Performing Arts. (941) 351-8000

4 Sarasota Reading Festival Annual downtown event with booksellers, book signings and author panel discussions. Five Points Park, free. (941) 906-1733 or (941) 365-5228

4 Humane Society of Sarasota County • Hot Dogs and Cool Cats “Year of The Dog”-themed gala. Hyatt Sarasota, $200. (941) 955-4131

4 North Port Area Art Guild • Annual Art Show City Hall Complex, North Port, free to public; booth fee. (941) 423-0555

4 Out-Of-Door Academy • Extravaganza Themed dinner gala. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $200. (941) 349-3223

4 Pet Therapy • Annual Concert Benefit Featuring Mindy Simmons and Quartet in a tribute to Peggy Lee. $25. (941) 358-2225

4 Senior Friendship Centers • Fall Festival A day of health and wellness. Senior Friendship Center, Sarasota, free. (941) 955-2122

4 South Eastern Guide Dogs • Fourth Annual Sarasota 2006 St. Armands Circle International Invitational Auto Show (941) 364-9911

4 South Florida Museum • Snooty Gala Black-tie dinner to support Snooty the manatee and the museum’s educational programs. South Florida Museum, $150. (941) 746-4131

5 University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee • Brunch on the Bay Celebrates leadership and raises dollars for local students. Powel Crosley Mansion, $100. (941) 359-4340

6 Pines of Sarasota Foundation • Creative Cooks Classic Sarasota Yacht Club. (941) 955-6293

9 Ear Research Foundation • Hear and Now Fundraiser Dinner, live music and silent auction. Longboat Key Club Harbourside Room, $150. (941) 365-0367

9 New College Foundation • New England Clambake Now in its 28th year. New College Bayfront, $95. (941) 359-4419

10 Lakewood Ranch Business Club • Viva Las Vegas! Casino night fund raiser benefiting Meals on Wheels and SPARCC. Sarasota Cay Club, $15 in advance; $20 at the door. (941) 351-1333

11 All Children’s Hospital Guild—Sarasota Branch • For the Love of All Children University Club, $75. (941) 739-9229

11 Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Sun CoastVenice Comedy and Lively Arts Auction $50. (941) 331-4376

11 Florida West Coast Symphony • Symphony Season’s Opening Night Dinner Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, $175. (941) 953-4252

11 Loveland Center • Venice Golf & Country Club Black-Tie Gala Venice Golf & Country Club, $85–$125. (941) 493-0016

11 Sarasota Area Sports Authority • Sportsperson and Athletes of the Year Award Dinner (941) 955-0991

12 All Faiths Food Bank • Empty Bowls Thanksgiving Day-related program. Phillippi Estate Mansion. (941) 379-6333

13 First Step of Sarasota • Third Annual Golf Classic TPC Prestancia. (941) 366-5333

13 United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota-Manatee • Gathering of the Goddesses Luncheon Michael’s On East. (941) 957-3599

14 Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida • High Tea at High Noon Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, $50. (941) 365-3913

14 Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida • Safe Sex on Route 66 Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, $75. (941) 365-3913

14 Sarasota Medical Pregnancy Center • Harvest for Life Michael’s On East, $65, table sponsorships available. (941) 330-2273

15 The Wellness Community—Southwest Florida • The Celebration of Hope Dinner and presentation of the Stephen H. Goldman Keystone Award. Michael’s On East, $125. (941) 921-5539

16 Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota • Kids’ Night Out Dinner and auction. Lee
Wetherington Boys & Girls Club. (941) 366-3911

16 New Gate School • In the Pink—A Taste of New Gate Fourth annual food and wine fest. 11011 State Road 72. (941) 922-4949

17 Sarasota Sports Foundation • Second Annual Celebrity Golf Classic Proceeds benefit abandoned children in the community. Longboat Key Club. (941) 927-0559

29 Sarasota Ballet of Florida • Gala Performance Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. (941) 359-0099

26–28 The Artist Series of SarasotaGala Series Premiere FSU Center for the Performing Arts, $50–$150. (941) 388-1188

19 Historic Spanish Point • Cracker Brunch Historic Spanish Point, $38. (941) 966-5214

19 Healthy Start Coalition of Sarasota CountyBaby Steps Sunset Beach Walk Siesta Key Public Beach. (941) 373-7070

29 The Community Music School of Southwest Florida • The Sound of Music Dinner, silent auction, show and “meet the cast” reception. Hyatt Sarasota and Players Theatre. (941) 929-1859

MORE NOVEMBER EVENTS

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation • Black & White Bowling $150. (941) 952-5836

Girls Incorporated of Sarasota County • Angel Luncheon Girls Inc., free. (941) 366-6646

Sarasota Film Society • Cine-World Film Festival More than 50 of the best feature films from around the world. Burns Court Cinemas. (941) 364-8662

Sarasota/Manatee Association for Riding Therapy (SMART) • Third Annual Poker Run (941) 746-1493

DECEMBER 2006

1 The Florida Center • 19th Annual Festival of Trees, Lights and Holiday Gifts Michael’s On East, $175. (941) 371-8820

1 Van Wezel Foundation • Reaching for the Stars with Cirque Dreams Jungle Fantasy Cocktails and dinner in the Grand Foyer, preferred performance seating and a “Meet the Artist” reception for gala patrons. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, $250/Gala Star, $500/Super Star Patron, $750/Showstopper Patron. (941) 366-5578

1 World Dance Arts Foundation • First Annual “Snow Ball” $20. (941) 758-9129

1–2 Sarasota Garden Club • Holiday Boutique and Art at the Gardens Sarasota Garden Club. (941) 955-0875

1–2 Trinity Charities • SMART Ride IV 165-mile bike ride from Miami to Key West. (941) 355-0847

1–3 The Junior League of SarasotaHoliday Tour of Homes $15. (941) 953-5600

2 Children’s Haven and Adult Community Services • Ninth Annual Jingle and Jog 5K Road Race 4405 DeSoto Road, $17 in advance; $20 day of. (941) 355-8808

2 Lemur Conservation Foundation (LCF) • 10th Anniversary Celebration Afternoon of fun, food, music, libations and lemurs. Myakka City Lemur Reserve, current donors only. (941) 322-8494

2 New College Library Association • Mistletoe Ball The oldest black-tie gala in Sarasota, signaling the start of the holiday season. Charles Ringling Mansion, $225. (941) 487-4600

3 The Sarasota Choral Society • 62nd Annual Production of Handel’s Messiah Public performance, $20; dress rehearsal, $15. (941) 953-4205

3–9 Designing Women Boutique • Designing Women Fashion Week 2006 Designing Women Boutique, $100–$500. (941) 366-5293

4 Fine Arts Society of Sarasota • Celebrate the Arts Luncheon Michael’s On East, $50. (941) 330-0680

5 La Musica Di Asolo • Sonata a Due Dinner and musical recital. Charles Ringling Mansion, $150–$200. (941) 346-2601

7 Arthritis Foundation/Southwest Region • Jingle Bell Run/Walk Manatee’s largest 5K run, along the Manatee River. (800) 741-4008 ext. 227

7 Make-a-Wish Foundation of Sarasota/Tampa Bay • Day Dreams and Wishes $100. (941) 926-9474

8–9 Senior Friendship Centers • Racquets for Friendship Sarasota Tennis Tournament Serendipity at the Country Club of Sarasota, $50, $75, $100 and $150. (941) 955-2122

10 Gulf Coast Men’s Chorus • Holiday Concert Sarasota Opera House, $20. (941) 957-0404

11 Florida West Coast Symphony Association • Annual Holiday Luncheon $50. (941) 685-0425

11 Gloria Musicae • Gloria, Gloria! Christmas music old and new, featuring the Gloria of Francis Poulenc. Church of the Redeemer. (941) 954-4223

12 Sarasota Opera Guild • Poinsettia Luncheon Michael’s On East, $50–$65. (941) 758-8600

16–17 West Coast Civic Ballet • Cinderella Booker High School, $15–$20/adult, $10–$15/senior, $5–$10/student. (941) 358-8349

17 Jewish Family & Children’s Services • The Stars of BroadwayTheir Roots in Jewish Music Featuring Leif Bjaland and the Florida West Coast Symphony. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $250. (941) 366-2224

28–30 Police Athletic League of Sarasota County • PAL Sailor Circus Holiday Spectacular PAL Sailor Circus Arena, $10, $12, $15. (941) 316-8108 or (941) 361-6350

MORE DECEMBER EVENTS

Second Chance-Last Opportunity • Holiday Benefit (941) 360-8660

Camp Florida Fish Tales • Annual Golf tournament (941) 921-9182

JANUARY 2007

2 Van Wezel Foundation • The Perlman Music Program Celebration Event Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, $1,000/pair; $40, $50, $60 for concert only. (941) 366-5578

5–7 The Florida Center • Ninth Annual Thunder by the Bay Motorcycle Festival (941) 371-8820

6, 8 NARSAD The Mental Health Research Association • 10th Annual Sunshine from Darkness Gala and Symposium Free research symposium on the latest treatments for mental illness, and a gala dinner. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, $275 gala. (941) 308-MIND

9 The Artist Series of Sarasota • Annual scholarship dinner Fred’s Ballroom, Lakewood Ranch, $125. (941) 388-1188

12 Sarasota County Arts Council • Arts Night Downtown Sarasota, $75. (941) 365-5118

13 Circus Sarasota • The Art of Circus Dining, dancing and circus entertainment. Tuttle Avenue and 12th Street, $150–$250. (941) 355-9335

14 Sarasota County Arts Council • Arts Day Downtown Sarasota, $5 donation. (941) 365-5118

17 National Council of Jewish Women, Sarasota-Manatee Section • Women in Power Luncheon Honoring three outstanding local women who have made a difference. Michael’s On East, $40. (941) 926-7799

18 United Nations Association of the United States America (UNA-USA)—Sarasota-Manatee Chapter • Fundraising dinner Honoring retired ambassadors living in the area. Sarasota Yacht Club. (941) 359-9760

19 Animal Rescue Coalition • Dog’s Night Out Saks Fifth Avenue, $75. (941) 957-1955

20 Florida West Coast Symphony • “Gotta Dance” Gala Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, $250 and up. (941) 953-4252

20 Lemon Bay Conservancy • Winter “Toast to the Coast” (941) 475-9021

25 American Jewish Committee—West Coast Florida Chapter • Human Relations Award Dinner Michael’s On East, $250. (941) 365-4955

26–27 Plantation Community Foundation • Tour of Homes Plantation Golf and Country Club, $20. (941) 497-4826

27 The Foundation for Manatee Community College • The Golden Anniversary Gala The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $200. (941) 752-5390

27 The Great Outdoors Conservancy • Conservation Celebration Annual banquet, automobile raffle and auction. Bradenton City Centre, $150. (941) 708-3456

27 Sarasota Opera • Opening Night Gala Pre-opera cocktail party and dinner, performance of Puccini’s Madama Butterfly and Afterglow Party. Sarasota Opera House, $175. (941) 366-8450

31 Manatee Community Foundation • Spirit of Manatee Awards, A Celebration of Giving Luncheon recognizing outstanding Manatee County philanthropists. Bradenton Auditorium. (941) 747-7765

MORE JANUARY EVENTS

American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Florida West Coast Chapter/Design Community Sarasota • Annual ASID Designer Showhouses Member designers re-create a bayfront residence, then invite the public to tour the home. Proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs, Ringling School of Art and Design and University of South Florida. $20. (941) 926-7794

PAL Sailor Circus • Annual Gala PAL Sailor Circus Arena. (941) 316-8108 or (941) 361-6350

Art Center Sarasota • Annual Fashion Show Art-themed fashion show in collaboration with Designing Women. Michael’s On East, $65/member, $75/nonmember. (941) 365-2032

FEBRUARY 2007

1 Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) • Secondhand Rose Fashion Show and Luncheon The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. (941) 365-0208

3 Asolo Theatre Company • Season Gala Dinner, dance, show benefiting the Asolo artistic scholarship program. Ringling Museum, $250, $500, $1,000. (941) 351-8000

3 Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice • Catholic Charities Ball  Michael’s On East, $175. (941) 379-5119

3–25 Florida West Coast Symphony Association • 32nd Annual Symphony Showcase Top designers decorate a home in Lido Shores, $20. (941) 685-0425

7 Historic Spanish Point • From Salsa to Sorbet IV Michael’s On East, $75. (941) 966-5214

7 Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation • The Crown Jewel Gala This year honoring David and Myrna Band for their community contributions. Michael’s On East. (941) 371-4546

9 New College Foundation • Big Band Valentine Bash Dinner and dance with big-band music. Michael’s On East, $200. (941) 359-4419

10 American Cancer Society—Sarasota Unit • Cattle Baron’s Ball Dress in your denim and diamonds for a Western-themed good time. PAL Sailor Circus Arena. (941) 497-4309

10 Animal Rescue Coalition • Gala 2007, Best in Show An evening of dinner and dancing. Hyatt Sarasota, $250. (941) 957-1955

10 Lakewood Ranch Community Fund • The Gala Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club. (941) 747-7765

11 Gloria Musicae • Music of War and Peace Vaughan Williams’ Dona Nobis Pacem with strings, along with pieces to portray the various faces of war, as well as the joy and tranquility of peacetime. Holley Hall. (941) 954-4223

13 Sarasota Opera Guild • Sweetheart of the Opera Luncheon Honoring Metropolitan Opera star Judith Blegin. Entertainment by Sarasota Opera principal artists. Michael’s On East, $60–$75. (941) 758-8600

15 First Step of Sarasota • Caring Hearts Luncheon Michael’s On East. (941) 366-5333

16–17 Sarasota Christian School • 48th Annual Auction A weekend event featuring class baskets, handmade quilts, pancake breakfast, children’s games, a live auction and much more. Sarasota Christian School gymnasium, free. (941) 371-6481

20 Goodwill Foundation • Goodwill Fat Tuesday Party A high-energy, authentic Mardi Gras celebration with fabulous food and drink, sensational costumes and nonstop Cajun music. Michael’s On East, $175. (941) 955-4483

22 Sarasota Ballet of Florida • Annual Dance—The Next Generation Luncheon (941) 359-0099

22–25 Children First • Celebration Series of events bringing attention to and support for very young children and families living in poverty. $10–$125. (941) 953-3877

23 Education Foundation of Sarasota County • Evening of Excellence Elegant dinner and spirited student art auction showcasing outstanding high school talent. Michael’s On East, $200, $250 patron; sponsorships available. (941) 927-0965

24 [Please note: This event has been canceled. ]American Heart Association • Heart Ball Laurel Oak Country Club, $200. (941) 927-4997

24 St. Stephen’s Episcopal School • Falcon Fitness 5K Run/Walk St. Stephen’s Episcopal School. (941) 746-2121

24 Sarasota-Manatee Arch Family Holocaust Education Center of the Florida Holocaust Museum • To Life, To Heroes, To Courage Dinner A La Carte Event Pavilion, Tampa, $200. (941) 378-8837

24 Sarasota Chorus of the Keys • 58th Annual Concert 100-man chorus and quartets in performance of champions. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, $18–$35. (941) 378-3331

24 Southeastern Guide Dogs • Annual Walk-a-thon Manatee River Fairgrounds/Mosaic Arena, Palmetto. (941) 729-5665

MORE FEBRUARY EVENTS

Suncoast Humane Society • Fur Ball Plantation Golf and Country Club, Venice, $75. (941) 474-7884

Englewood Helping Hand • Englewood Crop Walk Community Presbyterian Church. (941) 474-5864

Human Society of Sarasota • Pug Parade Sponsored by SARASOTA Magazine and Lakewood Ranch. An afternoon celebration of pugs and their owners; concessions, pug fashion show, area animal vendors. Lakewood Ranch Adventure Park, free. (941) 955-4131

Lighthouse of Manasota • Be a Visionary Walk $25/adult, $10/child age five and up. (941) 359-1404

Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Florida Suncoast Affiliate • Donor event for Build for the Cure St. Armands. (877) 506-6927

WEDU Channel 3, Florida West Coast Public Broadcasting • Sojourn Black-tie dinner and auction. $200 starting price. (800) 354-9338

MARCH 2007

2 and 4 United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota-Manatee • Chocolate Sundae & The Chocolate Festival Chocolate-themed gourmet dinner and tasting. Michael’s On East. (941) 957-3599

3 G.WIZ—The Hands-On Science Museum • Butterfly Ball Black-tie dinner and dancing. G.WIZ. (941) 309-4949

3 St. Stephen’s Episcopal School • Parent’s Association Signature Event—Mardi Gras (941) 746-2121

4 Sarasota Opera • Spring Gala Concert Afterglow Party Final celebration of the opera’s season, marking the start of the much-anticipated restoration of the historic theater. Sarasota Opera House, $50. (941) 366-8450

4 The Jewish Housing Council Foundation • Benefit Honoring the Rev. and Mrs. James Nilon for their contributions to the community. Michael's On East, $150. (941) 377-0781

6 - 8 First United Methodist Church • 31st Annual Pineapple Antique Show & Sale Moving to a new location this year at the Sarasota Cay Club, the Pineapple Antique Show & Sale will have more than 35 antique dealers represented. Benefiting local charities, including All Faiths Food Bank, First Step and SPARCC. Sarasota Cay Club Resort & Marina, $10 (Tuesday-night preview), $5 (Wednesday and Thursday). (941) 955-0935

8 All Faiths Food Bank • Taste of the Suncoast Evening of sampling food and wine from Sarasota restaurants, along with music, exercise and laughter. Robarts Arena. (941) 379-6333

10 Cardinal Mooney High School • 34th Annual Dinner Auction Longboat Key Club. (941) 371-4917

10 Child Protection Center Inc. • Sarasota Comedy Festival Stand-up comedians and nationally syndicated cartoonists. (941) 365-1277

10 Muscular Dystrophy Association • Stride & Ride Walk Manatee Community College. (941) 951-7890

10 The Wellness Community—Southwest Florida • Flight of Hope Dinner-dance gala. Dolphin Aviation, $185. (941) 921-5539

11–18 Jazz Club of Sarasota • Sarasota Jazz Festival Indoor and outdoor jazz events, some free to public. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and other locations, free–$40. (941) 366-1552

12 Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida • 41st Annual Dinner Municipal Auditorium, $140. (941) 365-3913

14 Jewish Family & Children’s Services • Celebrity Chefs & Wine Tasting Longboat Key Club & Resort Harbourside Dining Room. (941) 366-2224

16 Forty Carrots Family Center • carrotcakes 2007: On Broadway Dinner, entertainment, mini-live and super-silent auctions. Hyatt Sarasota, $125–$250. (941) 365-7716

16–17 Fine Arts Society of Sarasota • The Creators and Collectors Tour Since 1970, a two-day tour of artists’ and art collectors’ homes and studios. Sarasota County, $20. (941) 330-0680

16–18 Crissy Galleries and New College Foundation Auction Private preview, public auction. New College Bayfront. (941) 359-4419

17 Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation • Walk to Cure Diabetes Siesta Key Beach. (941) 929-0621

18 Sarasota Opera • Maestro’s 25th Anniversary Celebration Gala dinner honoring Artistic Director Victor DeRenzi’s 25th anniversary with Sarasota Opera. Michael’s On East Ballroom, $250. (941) 366-8450

21–24, 28–31 PAL Sailor Circus • 58th Spring Season PAL Sailor Circus Arena, $10, $12, $15. (941) 361-6350 or (941) 316-8108

22 Habitat for Humanity Sarasota • Hammers and Hope Municipal Auditorium, $150–$500. (941) 365-0700

24–25 Longboat Key Center for the Arts • Longboat Key Fine Arts & Crafts Festival Music, food, beverages, art demonstrations and children’s events. Longboat Key Center for the Arts, free. (941) 383-2345

27 The Community Music School of Southwest Florida • Second Annual “Tees for Tunes” Golf Tournament Serenoa Golf Club. (941) 929-1859

29 Sarasota Ballet of Florida • Tribute Dinner for Robert de Warren Michael’s On East. (941) 359-0099

MORE MARCH EVENTS

Alzheimer’s Association—Florida Gulf Coast Chapter • Memory Walk (941) 365-8883

Crowley Museum and Nature Center • Starry Nite Gourmet dinner and silent auction with amazing celestial sights via powerful telescopes. Crowley Museum and Nature Center. (941) 322-1000

Girls Incorporated of Sarasota County • Celebration luncheon Honoring three outstanding women with the “She Knows Where She Is Going” award, and one exemplary visionary leader with a “Visionary” award. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. (941) 366-6646

Mental Health Community Centers • Celebrity Waiters Dinner Celebrity waiters vie for the Tarnished Spoon award by getting the largest amount of tips from their table of guests. Venice, $50. (941) 953-3477

National Multiple Sclerosis Society—Mid-Florida Chapter • MS Walk Southside Sarasota. (800) FIGHT-MS

New Gate School • Celebration Annual dinner-dance with live and silent auction. Gulfcoast Event and Conference Center, $125. (941) 922-4949

Players of Sarasota • 77th Season Gala Live entertainment, “palate pleasures, liquid treasures,” silent auction and Sarasota celebrities. The Players Theatre, $45–$100. (941) 365-2494

Suncoast Humane Society • Paws in the Park Annual adoption and fund raiser with arts and crafts, pet contests, food vendors, entertainment and children’s activities. Venice, free. (941) 474-7884

Women’s Resource Center of Sarasota County • Renaissance Luncheon The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $80. (941) 366-1700

Westcoast Center for Human Development Annual Benefit Banquet Celebrates diversity achievements within the community, honoring heroes of human service. $150. (941) 365-7543

American Cancer Society—South Sarasota/DeSoto County Unit • Relay for Life The largest fund-raising event in the Unites States, honoring those touched by cancer. Teams walk, jog or run relay-style around the track for 18 hours, plus a cancer-survivor dinner and candle-lighting ceremony. Free to public. (941) 497-4309

Resurrection House • An Evening to Remember Dinner, cabaret performance, desserts and door prize drawings. Goldstein Cabaret at Florida Studio Theatre, $100. (941) 365-3759

APRIL 2007

1 All Faiths Food Bank • Giving Hunger the Blues Daylong festival featuring area bands, games, food and beverages. Hillview Street. (941) 379-6333

3 Community Video Archives (CVA) • Annual Hall of Fame Luncheon Honorees are inducted into Video Archives Hall of Fame. Michael’s On East, $75. (941) 365-7052

4 New College Library Association • Pique-nique sur la Baie 24th annual luncheon and fashion show on the bayfront. Charles Ringling Mansion. (941) 487-4600

13–22 Sarasota Film Festival Regal Hollywood 20, $8–$300. (941) 364-9514

14 Gloria Musicae • Great Handel Masterpieces Inspiring music in the great English choral tradition. Guest soloist will be baritone Todd Thomas, Sarasota Opera favorite. St. Boniface Church. (941) 954-4223

15–16 Foundation for Dreams • 2007 Tournament Fore Dreams Lakewood Ranch Country Club. (941) 748-8809

20 Marie Selby Botanical Gardens  The Orchid Ball An elegant evening of dinner and dancing amid the tropical splendor of Selby Gardens. (941) 366-5731

21 Sarasota Film Festival • Filmmakers Tribute Dinner Formal dinner and celebration honoring the life and work of a legendary film talent, scholarship winners and film award recipients. Longboat Key Club and Resort, $300. (941) 364-9514

21 Easter Seals Southwest Florida • Annual Meadows Cup Pro-Am Golf Tournament Meadows Country Club. (941) 355-7637

21 The Life of Riley Foundation • Riley’s Royal Gala Sarasota’s first black-tie gala for children (grades pre-K to five) and their parents and/or grandparents. Temple Sinai, $65/child, $85/adult. (941) 923-3093

26–29 Florida Winefest and Auction Primarily on the grounds of The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, and more than 30 venues around Sarasota and Bradenton. $15–$300+; April 27 gala dinner, $300; April 28 charity auction, $175. (941) 952-1109

30 Key Chorale • Daniel Moe’s Final Season: Verdi’s Requiem Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, $22, $32, $42. (941) 957-0851

MORE APRIL EVENTS

Camp Florida Fish Tales • Springfest Block Party Superior Avenue, Gulf Gate. (941) 921-9182

Children’s Haven and Adult Community Services (CHAC) • Fifth Annual “Handi-capable Award & Celebration” Showcasing an individual with disabilities who has exemplified courage in his or her own life, as well as the lives of others. John Cannon model home, $75. (941) 355-8808

Muscular Dystrophy Association • Hop-a-Thon Disability awareness program. (941) 951-7890

MAY 2007

4 Make-a-Wish Foundation of Sarasota/Tampa Bay • Wishfest/Auction Tennis tournament. Chelsea Center, $100; tennis entry, $40. (941) 926-9474

4 The Smith Center for Therapeutic Riding • Derby Day 2007 Michael’s On East, $125. (941) 412-9333

5 The Community Music School of Southwest Florida • Second Annual Kentucky Derby Party (941) 929-1859

5 YMCA Foundation of Sarasota • Going for the Gold Dinner and auction. Berlin YMCA Branch, $200. (941) 951-1336

11 Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Sun Coast • Sports Legends Weekend Gala Dinner & Auction Michael’s On East, $150. (941) 331-4376

12 Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation • Poker Madness Returns Las Vegas-style casino games, dancing, delicious food and cocktails. Michael’s On East. (941) 371-4546

17 Arthritis Foundation—Southwest Region • Arthritis Walk/Run Bradenton, Venice, Naples. (800) 741-4008 ext. 227

19 Manasota Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC) • Annual Celebration Dinner and Auction Bradenton City Centre. (941) 752-2976

26 The Life of Riley Foundation • Beach Run/Walk Siesta Key Beach. (941) 923-3093

MORE MAY EVENTS

American Red Cross—Southwest Florida Chapter • Hurricane Bash 2007 (941) 379-9300

Easter Seals Southwest Florida • Walk With Me Walk-a-thon. New College of Florida. (941) 355-7637

Lighthouse of Manasota • Spring Fashion Show Michael’s On East, $80. (941) 359-1404

Mental Health Community Centers • High Hopes Gala Elegant dinner-dance. Sarasota, $125. (941) 953-3477

Salvation Army Sarasota Area Command • The Schoenbaum Humanitarian Award Luncheon “Glitz at the Ritz” The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $75 and up. (941) 954-4673

Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation • Sixth Annual Physicians Golf Tournament (941) 917-1286

WEDU Channel 3, Florida West Coast Public Broadcasting • Speaking of Women’s Health Annual daylong event focusing on women’s health issues. $50. (800) 354-9338

JUNE 2007

2 Community Youth Development • Starry, Starry Night Prom (941) 922-5126

2 Every Child • “School Daze Rock” Junior Year Fashion show by Willow 506, dancing after curfew, specialty drinks and voting for an adult prom king and queen. Payne Park Auditorium, $75. (941) 953-2277

5 SCOPE • "Celebrating and Connecting Across Boundaries" Venice Community Center, free. (941) 365-8751.

23–July 4 The Florida Center and the Suncoast Foundation for the Handicapped • 23rd Annual Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix Festival (941) 371-8820

JULY 2007

The Smith Center for Therapeutic Riding • Casino Night (941) 412-9333

AUGUST 2007

26 Junior Achievement • Bowl-A-Thon Bowling tournament. Sarasota Lanes, donations only. (941) 350-0543

MORE AUGUST EVENTS

Second Chance-Last Opportunity • Annual fund raiser (941) 360-8660

Incarnation Catholic School $100,000 Raffle (Tickets go on sale in August; drawing takes place in March.) Donation of $100 gives purchaser 10 chances to win $10,000. Only 2,000 tickets are sold. (941) 924-8588