Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources EVENTS GUIDE December 2017- June 2018 Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources GENERAL INFORMATION

SARASOTA COUNTY COMMISSION ADA COMPLIANCE POLICY Paul Caragiulo Sarasota County prohibits discrimination in all services, programs District 2 Commissioner, Chair and activities. View the complete policy at scgov.net/ADA. Persons with disabilities who require assistance or alternative means for Nancy C. Detert communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, District 3 Commissioner, Vice Chair etc.), or who wish to file a complaint, should contact: Michael A. Moran Sarasota County ADA/Civil Rights Coordinator District 1 Commissioner 1660 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34236 Phone: 941-861-5000; TTY 7-1-1 or 1-800-955-8771 Alan Maio Email: [email protected]. District 4 Commissioner Charles D. Hines CREDIT AND DEBIT CARDS District 5 Commissioner Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources accepts major credit and debit cards (MasterCard, Visa, American Express and Discover) Jonathan Lewis for payment of programs and services. The charge will appear on your Interim County Administrator statement as “Sarasota County Parks and Recreation.” ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE LANDS REFUNDS OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE (ESLOC) Rental refund requests must be made in writing and submitted to Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources prior to 60 days before the date of the Ray Loraine, Chairman Albert Joerger Jennifer Shafer reservation. Each refund request is subject to a $25 administrative fee. Jono Miller, Vice Chairman Donald Neu Elizabeth Tyner Kevin Barton Tina Powell Dr. Wendy Ying No refunds will be granted if the request is received fewer than 60 days Sara Dramis prior to the reservation date. Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources may reschedule the reservation if adverse environmental conditions PARKS ADVISORY AND RECREATION occur, including local advisory for a tornado, hurricane watch or warning, imminent flood warning or red tide. No refunds are granted in COUNCIL (PARC) cases of inclement weather. Jono Miller, Chairman Maryellin Kirkwood Andrew Sias Some programs may not allow refunds or may not allow refunds after Lynn Brock, Vice Chairman Dan McLeroy Lucy Tobias a certain date; refer to specific program information. There is a $25 Victor Dobrin Joan Piper administration fee for program refunds where applicable. Programs whose total cost is less than $25 are not eligible for a refund. There PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL are no refunds on passes. RESOURCES MANAGEMENT TEAM DOG PARKS AND DOG-FRIENDLY PARKS Carolyn Brown, Director A dog park is a park for dogs to exercise and play off-leash under their Nicole Rissler, Deputy Director owner’s supervision. At a dog-friendly park, dog owners can enjoy Kim Heuberger, Policy Coordinator walking their dogs in designated areas, but they must be on a maximum Rob LaDue, Planning and Capital Program Manager 6-foot hand-held leash. For a list of Sarasota County dog parks and dog- Frank Moritz, Neighborhood Parks and Maintenance friendly parks, visit scgov.net (keywords dog park). Services Manager Steve Rauh, Sports Development and Athletics Manager PHOTO POLICY Shelia Roberson, Business and Partnerships Manager Photographs taken at Sarasota County parks, facilities and programs Jon Robinson, Natural Area Parks, Preserves and Trails Manager often are used in presentations, brochures and other county Tricia Wisner, Operations Coordinator publications. If you do not wish to have your picture or a family Jim Wormley, Recreation and Special Events Manager member’s picture taken, let the photographer know in advance. Shawn Yeager, Beaches and Water Access Manager PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES Sarasota County Administration Center 1660 Ringling Blvd., Fifth Floor Sarasota, FL 34236 941-861-5000 scgov.net/parks I facebook.com/scgovparks 2 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. Check out our new web site scgov.net

You’re first in line when you’re online! Search and register for programs Our recreation and community centers are available to rent for and classes, check on facility availability and request reservations at your next event. With rental spaces both inside and out, we can scgov.net/parks. Registrations and reservation requests require an accommodate everything from a small private party to a business expo, online account. Create your account today by visiting scgov.net/parks sports tournament, wedding reception or a concert seating for up to and clicking on “Create an Account.” Already have an account? Simply 1,200 guests. To view and request reservations at all our reservable click “Sign In.” You may also browse the site as a guest. facilities, including this pavilion at Urfer Family Park, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000.

Become a Friend of Sarasota County Parks Join the team, volunteer!

We welcome your participation in making Sarasota County a premier The fabric of any community is its parks, and Sarasota County community where people choose to live, work and play, whether it be is fortunate to have a diverse park system featuring a variety of volunteering for a one-time event or an ongoing opportunity. neighborhood and regional parks, trails, natural areas and beaches. By volunteering, you can: The Friends of Sarasota County Parks is a 501(c)(3) corporation, which • Make friends and meet new people. was formed in 2003 to provide volunteer support and to raise funds • Contribute to your community. to enhance county parks, programs and preserves. Over the years, the • Stay active. Friends of Sarasota County Parks have raised funds to develop new parks, add playgrounds and send children to summer camp. Our current • Bring fun and fulfillment to your life. fundraising campaign is focused on efforts to construct shade structures Together we can create a community that actively supports a wide over county dugouts and spectator bleachers. We invite you to join us! range of programs, special events and park operations offered by your To learn more, visit foscp.org or call 941-275-9397. Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Department. Visit scgov.net or contact the Sarasota County Contact Center at 941-861-5000 today and ask about volunteering in Sarasota County parks!

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 1 ABOUT THIS EVENT GUIDE

Passionate about pickleball? Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Fanatic about fishing? EVENTS GUIDE December 2017- June 2018 Need time with nature? Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources has the right activities for you! Check out all we have to offer and join in on the fun. To help you find your favorite things to do, this guide is divided into 3 parts: 1) Recreation and Athletics, 2) Beaches and Water Access, and 3) Natural Areas. Tables of Contents by activity, park and location are provided on the following pages. This event guide is published twice a year and distributed throughout Sarasota County at key locations and posted online at scgov.net/parks. We welcome your comments and suggestions. Email us at [email protected], or contact the Sarasota County Contact Center at 941-861-5000.

AT-A-GLANCE SYMBOLS ~ Bait Shop Cl Dog-friendly (leash required) r:i Lifeguard ~ Soccer Field n Baseball Field B Dog Park B Nature Center Softball Field Basketball :t ., Fishing .... J Pickleball • Swimming II l!I ....., g ~ Beach Access !I Fishing Pier flit Picnic Shelter/Pavilion 13 Tennis B Bicycling mFitness Center mPicnicking ~ Tennis Practice Wall mBirding/Wildlife Viewing Ii Fitness Equipment (Outdoor) ti Playground D Trailhead s Boat Launch ~ Football Field 11 Racquetball ~ Trails-Equestrian g Camping ~. Gymnasium e, Recreation Building II Trails-Paved mCanoe/Kayak Launch U!1l Historic/Cultural Resource mRestrooms El Trails-Unpaved IJ Community Garden IJ. Horseshoes Rowing Facility 11 Volleyball mConcession Stand/Restaurant Indoor Rental =II Shooting Range 2 For more information and registration,• visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS BY TYPE OF PARK Recreation and Athletics ...... 6-31 Beaches and Water Access ...... 32-37 Natural Areas ...... 38-49

TABLE OF CONTENTS BY ACTIVITY Baseball/Softball ...... 12,15,21,26 Basketball ...... 10,12,13,15,18,19,21,22, 26,30,47 Bicycling...... 15,18,20,30,40,46,47 Birding/Wildlife Viewing ...... 20,24,26,30,34,35, 36,37,40,41,42,43,44,45,46,47,48 Camping ...... 17,37,40 Canoeing/Kayaking ...... 20,22,24 35,40,41,43 Fishing ...... 15,20,22,24,26,34,35,37,43,45,48 Fitness Equipment (Outdoor) ...... 15,18,22,46,48 Football/Soccer ...... 15,21,26 Horseback Riding ...... 40 Horseshoes ...... 12,21,26,30 Pickleball/Playground ...... 10,12,13,15,18,19,20,21,22,24,26,30,35,36,37,45,46,47,48 Tennis ...... 10,13,15,18,19,21,22,23,26,30,36,47 Trails-Paved ...... 10,15,18,20,24,29,30,36,43,46,47,48 Trails-Unpaved...... 13,15,17,20,21,22,24,26,30,40,41,42,43,44, 45,47,48 ASK THE EDITORS (NEW!) How does Sarasota County encourage good sportsmanship? By Wyatt Richardson, Sports Development/Athletics Parks Supervisor ...... 6 What kind of birds will I see on Sarasota County beaches and waterways in the winter months? By Kathi Rader-Gibson, Parks Naturalist ...... 32 Prescribed Fire: Why do we need it? By Jay Bailey, Fire Mitigation Specialist ...... 38

ATHLETIC LEAGUES Contacts ...... 9

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 3 UNIVERSITY PKWY ! À 14 NTAMIAMI TRL ---.I ! I

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Sarasota County BLVD D SUMTER # Park number i------1 * This• map does not indicate all of Sarasota County parks that are I I available. To learn about all of our great parks, go to scgov.net/parks. 776 I 1~ I , I • I ~, N INDIANA I ,, ! S RIVER RD Myakka MANASOTA KEY RD ·I~ AVE State 12 ! I Forest µ MANASOTA 9 I I ,,- KEY 1 0 1 2 4 6 8 I 4 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. I ,. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 1111 1111 Miles I ------~ ,------~I AT-A-GLANCE ACTIVITIES Park Number Park Number Page Park Baseball/Softball Basketball Bicycling Birding/Wildlife Viewing Camping Canoeing/Kayaking Fishing Equipment Fitness (Outdoor) cc er Football/So Horseback Riding Horseshoes Pickleball Playground Tennis Trails-Paved Trails-Unpaved

Arlington Park 1 10 • •••• • f------1--+--t-+--t--+-+-+--t--+--+-+--+-+-+--+-< Bee Ridge Park •2 12 •• •• Brohard Park 3 • I---+-34 -+--+-+--+--+-+-+--+--+--+-+--+-+-+--+--+•• Carlton Reserve 4 • f------1-40 -+--t-+--t--+-+-+--t--+--+-+--+-+-+--+-<••••• • Celery Fields Regional Stormwater Facility 5 • I---+--+--+-+--+--+-+-+--+--+--+-+--+-+-+--+--+40 • • Colonial Oaks Park 6 13 • f------1--+--t-+--t--+-+-+--t--+--+-+--+-+---+--+-<• •••• Culverhouse Nature Park •7 42 • • Curry Creek Preserve 8 • f------1--+--t-+--t--+-+-+--t--+--+-+--+-+---+--+-<41 •• • Englewood Sports Complex 9 • f------1-15 •••••••••••-+--t-+--t--+-+-+--t--+--+-+--+-+---+--+-< Knight Trail Park 10 • I---+-17 -+--+-+--+--+-+-+--+--+--+-+--+-+-+--+--+• • Laurel Park 11 • f------1-18 -+--t-+--t--+-+-+--t--+--+-+--+-+-+--+-<••••••• Lemon Bay Park 12 • I---+-43 -+--+-+--+--+-+-+--+--+--+-+--+-+-+--+--+••• •• Lido Beach 13 34 • • f------1--+--t-+--t--+-+-+--t--+--+-+--+-+---+--+-< Longwood Park •14 19 • ••• Nathan Benderson Park 15 • I---+--+--+-+--+--+-+-+--+--+--+-+--+-+-+--+--+20 •••• ••• Newtown Estates Park 16 • f------1--+--t-+--t--+-+-+--t--+--+-+--+-+---+--+-<21 •• •••••• Nokomis Beach Park 17 • I---+-35 -+--+-+--+--+-+-+--+--+--+-+--+-+-+--+--+••• • Nokomis Community Park 18 22 •••••••• • f------1--+--t-+--t--+-+-+--t--+--+-+--+-+-+--+-< Old Miakka Preserve •19 43 • • Payne Park Tennis Center 20 • I---+-23 -+--+-+--+--+-+-+--+--+--+-+--+-+-+--+--+• Phillippi Estate Park 21 • f------1--+--t-+--t--+-+-+--t--+--+-+--+-+---+--+-<24 ••• ••• Pocono Trail Preserve 22 • I---+--+--+-+--+--+-+-+--+--+--+-+--+-+-+--+--+44 • • Red Bug Slough Preserve 23 45 • f------1--+--t-+--t--+-+-+--t--+--+-+--+-+---+--+-<•• •• Rothenbach Park •24 46 ••••• Shamrock Park 25 • I---+-47 -+--+-+--+--+-+-+--+--+--+-+--+-+-+--+--+••• •••• Siesta Beach 26 • f------1-36 -+--t-+--t--+-+-+--t--+--+-+--+-+---+--+-<• •••• Turtle Beach Campground 27 • I---+-37 -+--+-+--+--+-+-+--+--+--+-+--+-+-+--+--+••• • Twin Lakes Park 28 26 ••••••••• • f------1--+--t-+--t--+-+-+--t--+--+-+--+-+-+--+-< Urfer Family Park •29 48 ••••• Venice Beach 30 37 • • f------1--+--t-+--t--+-+-+--t--+--+-+--+-+---+--+-< Venice Community Center •31 26 • Venice Train Depot 32 • I---+--+--+-+--+--+-+-+--+--+--+-+--+-+-+--+--+29 • Woodmere Park 33 30 • ~~~~~~~~~~~~••• •••••• For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 5 RECREATION AND ATHLETICS

Subject matter experts answer some of your “most-asked” questions.

Q. How does Sarasota County encourage good sportsmanship?

A. Sportsmanship encompasses many different elements including respect, communication, fairness, teamwork, positive attitude, effort and support. These Ask the Experts! elements help to ensure everyone enjoys the game they love. Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources staff reserves the right to suspend or expel any participant who does not follow the facility rules. This includes horseplay, offensive language, fighting, disruptive behavior and/or destruction of county property, which are always prohibited. For county-sponsored programs such as leagues, each organization should have policies and procedures in place for dealing with discipline of players, coaches, parents, spectators and other non-players or coaches.

When thinking about how sportsmanship plays a role in how you participate, consider this quote by football coach Knute Rockne, “One man practicing sportsmanship is far better than a hundred teaching it.” This helps put in perspective what we preach so everyone can enjoy their favorite sports. Sportsmanship is key regardless if the sport is baseball, football, soccer, pickleball, softball, basketball or lacrosse.

To submit your question for upcoming publications, please email [email protected].

DID YOU KNOW? The Legacy Trail and Venetian Waterway Park offer access to multiple Sarasota County parks including Shamrock Park and Caspersen Beach Park.

At more than 10 miles in length, The Legacy Trail is a popular asphalt-paved multi-use trail that connects to the Venetian Waterway Park (VWP) at the historic Venice Train Depot. Trail users can continue south on the VWP East approximately five miles to Shamrock Park and Nature Center, or cross the Intracoastal Waterway to the VWP West and travel south to Caspersen Beach Park.

6 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. SNOOK HAVEN...GREAT FOOD, GREAT SERVICE AND THAT OLD FLORIDA FEEL!

Snook Haven is a historic county-owned park with a restaurant on the Myakka River. The 67-year-old restaurant and outdoor music venue features a smokehouse-style menu with barbecue and southern-style dishes. You can make it an all-day adventure PLANNING A WEDDING? with our canoe rentals and pontoon boat rides, live music and welcoming atmosphere! Your wedding is your most important day, so plan it on scenic Phillippi Creek at the historic Edson Keith mansion. The elegant, 5000 E. Venice Ave., Venice, FL 34292 Italian Renaissance-style mansion is an indoor-outdoor 941-485-7221 • snookhaven.com venue including a 15-hour rental, bride’s suite, groom’s suite, complimentary wedding rehearsal the day before and gorgeous photographic opportunities in this beautiful 60-acre park.

5500 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 941-316-1309 • scgov.net/Parks/Phillippi Estate Park

22ND ANNUAL BIG TRUCK DAY DON’T MISS THE COMES TO NATHAN BENDERSON PARK. EGGSTRAVAGANZA EGG HUNT AT NOKOMIS COMMUNITY PARK! This free event takes place Saturday, March 31, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Children are invited to climb into more than 20 vehicles including This free egg hunt takes place Saturday, March 24, and is hosted a fire truck, dump truck, construction equipment and more! by the Nokomis East Homeowners Association. The hunt starts Egg hunts begin at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Bring a bag or basket. promptly at 10 a.m. and is for ages 10 and under. Don’t forget your There will also be games and other children’s activities as well as basket! Registration is not required. For details, call 941-486-2595. food and beverage vendors. For information, call 941-861-5000. No rain date.

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 7 SPORTS AND ATHLETICS CALENDAR OF EVENTS

EVENT SPORT DATE VENUE Suncoast Travel Ball Tournament Youth baseball Dec. 1-3, 2017 Various locations BMX SSA Event BMX Dec. 1-3, 2017 Youth Athletic Complex GSA Baseball Tournament Youth baseball Dec. 8-10, 2017 Various locations USSSA Softball Tournament Youth softball Dec. 9-10, 2017 Miss Sarasota Complex Gulf Coast Games for Life Various sports Feb. 10-16, 2018 Various locations Joey Powers Leukemia Project Lacrosse Feb. 17, 2018 Twin Lakes Park Sarasota Invitational Regatta Rowing Feb. 23-25, 2018 Nathan Benderson Park My Hometown Festival Various sports March 3, 2018 Nathan Benderson Park Sarasota–Bradenton ITU Triathlon Triathlon March 10-11, 2018 Nathan Benderson Park Pickleball Slam Pickleball March 27-29, 2018 Various locations FIRA Rowing Championships Rowing April 6-7, 2018 Nathan Benderson Park FSRA Sculling Championships Rowing April 14-15, 2018 Nathan Benderson Park FSRA Sweep Championships Rowing April 28-29, 2018 Nathan Benderson Park USRowing Southeast Regionals Rowing May 11-13, 2018 Nathan Benderson Park NCAA Women’s Rowing Championships DI, DII, DIII Rowing May 23-27, 2018 Nathan Benderson Park

8 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. ATHLETIC LEAGUES

NORTH COUNTY LEAGUES BASEBALL Cal Ripken Baseball [email protected] 941-955-5051 Central Sarasota Little League [email protected] 941-232-1548 Sarasota Babe Ruth League [email protected] 941-376-7045 BMX SRQ BMX [email protected] 941-960-1578 FOOTBALL Sarasota Ringling Redskins (football and lacrosse) [email protected] 941-954-1212 Sun Devils (football and cheerleading) [email protected] 847-772-4317 LACROSSE Sarasota Seahawks Lacrosse [email protected] 941-228-6272 LAWN BOWLING Sarasota Lawn Bowling Club sarasotalawnbowlingclub.com 941-316-1123 SOCCER FC Sarasota Soccer League (youth) mmixonfcsarasota.com 941-925-7679 Sarasota Football Club (adult) [email protected] 941-378-1400 Suncoast Soccer (youth) [email protected] 941-320-2043 Suncoast Sports (youth) suncoastsportsclub.com 941-504-3689 SOFTBALL Miss Sarasota Softball [email protected] 941-487-8934 Sarasota Area Softball Association (adult) [email protected] 941-724-4260 Sarasota Coed Softball (adult) [email protected] 941-378-9350 Sarasota Senior Softball Association [email protected] 941-379-2020 SoCo Club Sport (softball, soccer, kickball) [email protected] 877-820-2582, ext. 4 SOUTH COUNTY LEAGUES BASEBALL Englewood Area Youth Baseball [email protected] 941-204-5440 North Port Little League npall.com 941-626-1275 Venice Little League [email protected] 941-929-4987 CROQUET Sarasota County Croquet Club [email protected] 941-412-1619 FOOTBALL AND CHEERLEADING North Port Huskies northporthuskies.sportssignup.com 941-467-4046 North Port Mustangs Pop Warner [email protected] 941-764-8324 Venice Vikings Pop Warner Football [email protected] 941-587-0399 SOCCER Englewood Youth Soccer [email protected] 941-662-6457 North Port Youth Soccer League northportyouthsoccer.org Venice Area Youth Soccer venicesoccer.org 941-583-1253 SOFTBALL Englewood C.B. White Men’s Senior Slow Pitch [email protected] 941-460-9645 Englewood Coed Softball [email protected] 941-769-2105 Englewood Senior Women’s Legends League [email protected] 941-661-4555 Miss Englewood Fast Pitch [email protected] Miss North Port Fast Pitch missnorthportfastpitch.com 941-423-3341 Miss Venice Fast Pitch [email protected] Venice Senior Gold [email protected] 941-302-7837 Venice Senior Silver seniorsoftball.webs.com 941-716-1642 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 9 ARLINGTON PARK 2650 Waldemere St., Sarasota

Also features: Little Free Library and a community garden. This park offers indoor and outdoor reservable space. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275). AQUATIC ACTIVITIES MASTERS/ADULT FITNESS SWIM Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $50 per month / Pool,

RECREATION AND ATHLETICS AND RECREATION Monday – Saturday, 6 – 8 p.m. The Sarasota Tsunami Masters/Fitness Swim Team is designed to help swimmers of all levels improve their fitness and training. All levels and experience welcome. Train for fitness, health, competition and triathlons. Drop-in, monthly or practice pack-pricing available. Call ACTIVITIES 941-928-7946 (SWIM) or visit srqtsunami.org for more information. BADMINTON STROKE SCHOOL Year-round / Ages: 7 and up / Fee: $7 / Gymnasium / Wednesday, 6 – 10 p.m. Year-round / Ages: 5-8 years / Fee: $75 per month / Pool / Dates and times vary Open to all skill levels. Call Sandor Jakovics for more information at 941-879-2360 or [email protected]. The Tsunami Stroke Team is designed to develop your child’s stroke technique, as well as his or her swimming endurance. All young swimmers should be able to swim in water over their heads, go JAZZERCISE 25 yards freestyle with side breathing and swim backstroke, as Year-round (except Wednesdays during summer camp) / Ages: well as put their faces in the water with proper breath exchange. 18 and up / Fee: $15 per class (Passes available) / Gymnasium / Swim assessments can be scheduled. Call 941-928-9948 or email Wednesday, 9 – 10 a.m., Saturday 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. [email protected] for more information. Join this fun, high-intensity dance aerobic workout that incorporates jazz dance moves, aerobics, yoga, Pilates and strength training. For TSUNAMI COMPETITIVE SWIM TEAM details, call 941-918-1234. Alternate location available during summer Year-round / Ages: 5-17 years / Fee: Varies / Pool / Dates and camp hours (June). times vary The Sarasota Tsunami Swim Team is a year-round, USA Swimming- OPEN GYM/WEIGHT ROOM registered competitive swim team for children. For fees and Year-round / Ages: 16 and up / Fee: Free / Gymnasium and schedule, visit srqtsunami.org. Call 941-928-7946 (SWIM) or email Weight Room / Monday – Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m., Saturday, [email protected] for more information. noon – 5 p.m. The indoor gymnasium and weight room are free to use during regular VARSITY REC SWIM TEAM operating hours. They will be closed if a rental is taking place and during Year-round / Ages: 9-15 years / Fee: $100 per month / Pool / summer camp hours. Dates and times vary The Rec Swim Team offers stroke instruction, with specially designed PICKLEBALL training programs and education about physiological and nutritional December – May / All ages / Fee: $2 (Passes available) / needs to enhance performance. Swim assessments can be scheduled. Gymnasium / Open play: Tuesday, Thursday 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Call 941-928-7946 (SWIM) or email [email protected] for Advanced: Friday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. more information. Come and see what all the excitement is about! Join us for a session of indoor, air-conditioned pickleball play. Nets, paddles (limited) and WATER EXERCISE balls provided. For details, call 941-316-1346. Year-round / All ages / Fee: $5 per class or $35 for 20 classes / Instructional Pool / Monday – Friday, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Join instructor Pauline Everett for a great start to your morning!

10 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. RECREATION AND ATHLETICS ARLINGTON PARK (continued)

SWIM AMERICA SARASOTA LEARN TO SWIM LESSONS SPECIAL EVENTS April – June / Ages: 4 and up / Fee: Varies / Instructional Pool / GULF COAST GAMES FOR LIFE PICKLEBALL Dates and times vary Feb. 12-16 / Ages: 50 and up / Fee: $12 + $3 per event / Sarasota Swim Academy uses the Swim America curriculum, which Gymnasium / Monday – Friday, Participants will be notified of start is a progressive-skill lesson program. Children progress at their own times the previous week speed and athletic ability. The goal is to swim 25 yards freestyle Olympic-style competition in Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles and backstroke, with proper breath exchange in water over their and Mixed Doubles. Top five finishers in each age category qualify heads. These skills are required to advance to the Stroke Team. Call to participate in the Florida State Games in December. Registration 941-928-9948, email [email protected] or visit deadline is Friday, Jan. 26. Details are available at scgov.net/parks or sarasotaswimacademy.org for more information. call the park office at 941-316-1344. BABY AND ME SWIM CLASSES EASTER SPLASH May – June / Ages: 10 weeks to 36+ months / Fee: Varies / March 31 / All ages / Fee: Free / Pool / Saturday, noon – 4 p.m. Instructional Pool / Dates and times vary Join us for an afternoon Easter egg hunt in the pool! Parent and child work together in the water with instructors to learn skills that include back floats, submersions (not forced), rollover breathing, monkey/monkey and independent hands. DIVEHEART PROGRAM (T-REC) Call 941-928-9948 for more information. April 28 / Ages: Teens and up / Fee: Free / Instructional Pool / Saturday, noon – 2 p.m. SPECIAL OLYMPICS AQUATICS (T-REC) The purpose of the diveheart is to provide and support educational June / Ages: 8 and up / Fee: Free / Pool / Tuesday, Thursday, 6 p.m. scuba diving open to any child, adult or veteran with a disability, with the hope of providing both physical and psychological therapeutic Call 941-412-0402 for more information. value to that person. For details, call 941-486-2753. T-REC WATER EXERCISE (T-REC) June 11, 25 / Ages: 16 and up / Fee: Free / Instructional Pool / Monday, 11 – 11:45 a.m. All teens and adults with disabilities as well as families and caregivers are invited to attend. Each class will include a warm-up and cool down. Swim noodles will be utilized. For details, call 941-486-2753.

DID YOU KNOW? Arlington Park’s basketball court can be rented out for your special event!

You can rent half of the gym or the whole gym at Arlington Park. Picnic spaces, tennis courts and sections of the pool are also available. For more information, please call 941-316-1346. POOL ADMISSION INFORMATION

Monday - Friday 9:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Saturday, noon – 5 p.m. / Sunday closed. Daily pool fees (additional options available). $2 Children 4 - 11 / $4 Adults 12 - 54 / $2 Seniors 55+.

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 11 BEE RIDGE PARK 4430 Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota

Also features: sand volleyball. This park offers indoor and outdoor reservable space. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275). FOREVER FRIENDS FUN DAYS (T-REC) Year-round / Ages: 13 and up / Fee: Free / Room B / Third Saturday, 1 – 3 p.m. Join the volunteers of Forever Friends for an afternoon of fun,

RECREATION AND ATHLETICS AND RECREATION inspiration and activities. These events vary and may include music, crafts, snacks, games, special visitors and more. Teens and adults with disabilities are invited to this free event. Family and caregivers are also welcome. For details, call Denise Rizzo at 941-480-9390, email [email protected] or visit foreverfriendsinc.org. ACTIVITIES SAND VOLLEYBALL 4-H LIVESTOCK CLUB Year-round / Ages: 10 and up / Fee: Free / Sand volleyball courts / Year-round / Ages: 5-17 / Fee: Contact instructor / Room B / Daily, 8 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Second Tuesday, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Open play on five lighted courts. For details, call 941-316-1330. This club focuses on the development of leadership skills through the care and handling of steer, beef breeding, dairy cattle, swine, goats, poultry and rabbits, as well as crafts and plant projects. For details, email [email protected]. CAMP GLADIATOR Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: Contact instructor / Covered court / Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 5:45 – 6:45 a.m. No two sessions will be the same during these one-hour, full-body workouts. A typical session could include interval training, sprint and agility drills, stations, plyometrics, body weight strength drills, cardio mix and much more. Most of the drills are timed to allow all fitness levels to get the best workout possible. All fitness levels are welcome, and the program allows campers to go at their own pace. Sand Volleyball by SOCO Club Sports For details, contact Willie Thomas at 813-842-3230 or email [email protected] COED SOFTBALL LEAGUE COED SAND VOLLEYBALL February – May / Ages: 18-50 / Fee: Varies / Softball fields / Sunday - Wednesday, 6:30 – 10 p.m. Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: Contact league / Sand volleyball courts / Dates and times vary Contact league representatives at [email protected] for opportunities, cost and schedule. For play opportunities, cost and schedule, contact league representatives at [email protected]. COMMUNITY GARDENS IN PARKS Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Garden / Daily sunrise - sunset Community gardens provide a place for individuals to grow vegetables, fruits and herbs. Gardeners can improve their families’ health and nutrition while reducing food costs. Community gardens also benefit the neighborhoods where they are located by utilizing open space and promoting a sense of community pride. For a nominal fee, gardeners receive a garden plot, basic gardening tools, soil testing, compost and water. If you are interested in reserving a plot in one of our parks’ community gardens, contact UF/IFAS Coed Softball League at Bee Ridge Park Extension at Twin Lakes Park or call 941-861-5000.

12 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. COLONIAL OAKS PARK RECREATION AND ATHLETICS 5300 Colonial Oaks Blvd., Sarasota

Also features: community garden, Little Free Library. This park offers indoor and outdoor reservable space. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275). KINGS AND QUEENS BASKETBALL Year-round / Ages: 6-9 / Fee: Contact instructor / Gymnasium / Saturday, 10 – 11 a.m. Learn fun skills and the fundamentals of basketball. Camp has limited availability. For more information, email [email protected]. SOCCER SHOTS ACTIVITIES Year-round / Ages: 2-5 / Fee: Varies / Sunday morning and Friday evening options, call for times 4-H CLOGGING CLOVERS Fun, age appropriate intro to soccer classes for children ages 2-5. Year-round / Ages: 5-17 / Rooms A and C / Monday, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Classes focus on: soccer skills and coordination development (age 2); skill development and character development in a noncompetitive All levels welcome. Cloggers participate in 4-H competitions. For environment (age 3-5). Parent participation is required for age 2 groups. details, email [email protected]. For details, call 727-308-1200, or visit [email protected]. ENGINEERING FOR KIDS TABLE TENNIS Year-round / Ages: 4-14 / Fee: $99 / Season (6-8 weeks) / Year-round / Ages: 7 and up / Fee: $5 per day, monthly rates Room B / Friday 5 – 7 p.m., Saturday, 10:30 a.m. – noon available / Gymnasium / Monday, Wednesday 7 – 10 p.m., We put the excitement in Science, Technology, Engineering and Saturday, 2 – 5 p.m. Math (STEM) education by offering hands-on learning for children Increase agility and coordination while enjoying an excellent through fun and challenging activities. Our variety of programming cardiovascular workout. All skill levels are welcome. For details, call is extraordinary, including aerospace, chemical, civil, electrical, 941-739-1045. environmental, industrial, marine and mechanical engineering as well as LEGO® Robotics and Electronic Game Design. Classes by age: junior TRADITIONAL JAPANESE KARATE - SARASOTA engineers (ages 4-6), apprentice engineers (ages 7-11) and master KARATE CLUB engineers (ages 11-14). Enroll at EFKsarasota.com or call 941-564-7836. Year-round / Ages: 6 and up / Fee: Contact Instructor / Room A / ICLARITY YOGA Tuesday, Thursday, Youth 5:15 – 6 p.m., Adult 6:15 – 7:30 p.m. Year-round / All ages / Fee: Contact Instructor / Room C, Classes focus on the fundamentals of traditional karate-do as well Intermediate Yoga / Tuesday, Thursday 5:45 – 7:10 p.m., Healing as strength and flexibility training, balance, discipline and focus Yoga, every other Saturday, 9:30 – 10:50 a.m. through character improvement. Family discounts available; no contracts required. For more information, contact Sensei April Noss Yoga for all ages and bodies taught by an RN-BSN and RYT500 at 407-489-1147 or email at [email protected]. Club website is instructor. Decrease stress, increase flexibility and strength. For Sarasotakarateclub.com. more information, contact Cynthia Insinna at 941-685-1533 or visit iclarityyoga.com. DRAMA KIDS JAZZERCISE December – May / Ages: 5-10 / Fee: $59 per month plus $25 registration fee / Room C / Wednesday, 4:15 – 5:15 p.m. Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $40-$50 per month with auto pay program / Gymnasium / Monday - Thursday 5:45 – 6:45 p.m., Children can explore the world of creative dramatics with classes Saturday, 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. designed to build verbal communication skills, acting ability and self- esteem. For details, call Tamara at 941-922-8121. Jazzercise is a calorie-torching, hip-swiveling, dance party workout. For details, call Patti Horvath at 941-377-2504.

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 13 COLONIAL OAKS PARK (continued) 5300 Colonial Oaks Blvd., Sarasota

SPRING VACATION IN THE PARKS – ACTIVITIES SCHOOL BREAK PROGRAM PICKLEBALL March 26-30 / Ages: Kindergarten - sixth grade / Fee: $8.50 per session or $80 for five full days / Camp rooms / Monday-Friday, December – May / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $2 (Passes available) / 7:30 a.m. - noon and 1 - 5:30 p.m. Gymnasium / Monday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Wednesday 1 – 4 p.m. Fun recreational and instructional activities with daily themes. A Open to all skill levels. Nets, paddles and balls provided. Bring a partner supervised lunch hour is provided for those attending both daily

RECREATION AND ATHLETICS AND RECREATION or group. Singles also welcome. Sessions are suspended during camp sessions. Preregistration is required. Registration is available at programs. For details, call 941-316-1330. scgov.net/parks. For details, call 941-861-PARK (7275). TUNNELS OF FUN December – May / Ages: Toddler-5 years / Fee: $2 / Gymnasium / Wednesday, 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Play dates just got easier! Join your friends in the neighborhood for this open, unstructured, interactive fun time for toddlers under the supervision of their parents/guardians. For details, call 941-316-1330. WATERCOLORING WITH LINDA December – March / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $15 with supplies provided, or $10 if you bring your own supplies / Room B / Monday, 10:30 a.m. - noon All levels are welcome. Learn the basics and explore new techniques. Follow me, step-by-step, to complete a painting in one class. You can also bring your own composition to work with some guidance or completely independently. It’s your choice. Basic information is presented every week, plus a new weekly topic or technique. A Vacation in the Parks at Colonial Oaks Park weekly photo reference will be provided for everyone. Space is limited, so reserve your seat by emailing [email protected] with “watercolor class” in the subject line. SPECIAL EVENT WINTER VACATION IN THE PARKS – GULF COAST GAMES FOR LIFE TABLE TENNIS SCHOOL BREAK PROGRAM Feb. 15 / Ages: 50 and up / Fee: $12 + $3 per event / Gymnasium / Dec. 26-29, Jan. 2-5 / Ages: Kindergarten-sixth grade / Fee: $8.50 Thursday, 9 a.m. Singles, 11 a.m. Doubles, noon Mixed Doubles per session or $125 for eight full days / Camp rooms / Tuesday- Double-elimination tournament planned for singles and single- Friday, 7:30 a.m. – noon and 1 – 5:30 p.m. elimination draw for doubles. Competition in singles, doubles, mixed This program offers fun, recreational and instructional activities with doubles. Top five finishers in each age category qualify to participate daily themes for children during the school break. A supervised lunch in the Florida State Games in December. Registration deadline is time is provided to those attending both daily sessions. No camp on Friday, Jan. 26. Details are available at scgov.net/parks or call the park Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Preregistration is required. Register at scgov.net/parks. office at 941-316-1330. For details, call 941-861-PARK (7275).

Colonial Oaks Park Playground

14 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. ENGLEWOOD SPORTS COMPLEX RECREATION AND ATHLETICS 1300 S. River Road, Englewood

Also features: fitness equipment (outdoor), Little Free Library. This park offers indoor and outdoor reservable space. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275). TAE KWON DO Year-round / Ages: 7-15 / Fee: Free / Activity Room / Tuesday, Thursday, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Free martial arts class with instructor Captain Ron Blago. For details, call 941-861-1980. WALK 15 - NEW Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $7 / Conference Room / ACTIVITIES Tuesday, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Walk 15 is a low-impact, multi-muscle, calorie-torching, walking- BADMINTON based workout that all fitness levels can do. Classes are 45 minutes Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $2 / Gymnasium / Tuesday, long and are comprised of three 15-minute miles while staying in one Thursday, 9 a.m. – noon place. Contact certified instructor Cheryl Keim at 941-662-6858 or email [email protected] for more details. Bring your racquet and join us each week for a fun game of indoor badminton. Program is open to all skill levels. Loaner equipment is YOGA CLASS available. For information, call 941-861-1980. Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $5 / Conference Room / FITNESS TRAINING Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 9 – 10 a.m. Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $4 per day, $26.75 per month / This Hatha Yoga class is open to all levels and will explore posture, Fitness Room / Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. breathing and alignment. Create physical and mental strength and increase your range of motion, flexibility and stamina. Learn to deal Fitness room is equipped with a variety of cardio equipment with stress, release tension and relax. To register, contact instructor including two treadmills, recumbent bike, elliptical and rowing Denise Manguse at 941-475-1180. machine. The room also houses several freestanding weightlifting stations along with a complete range of free weight equipment to ZUMBA meet your training and fitness needs. Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $7 per class or $50 for 10 OPEN BASKETBALL classes / Gymnasium / Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 9 – 10 a.m. Year-round / All ages / Fee: Free (Passes available) / Gymnasium / Dance your way to a fitter you in this calorie burning workout led by Monday-Friday, 4 – 5:30 p.m. certified Zumba instructor Terri Josephson. For details, call 941-406-6986 or visit englewoodzumba.com. Open gym basketball is available every weekday afternoon at no charge unless there is a facility rental. Basketballs are available. BEGINNER PICKLEBALL Participants must wear shirt and tennis shoes and sign-in at front desk. December – May / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $2 (Passes available) / PICKLEBALL Gymnasium / Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $2 (Passes available) / Want to practice your skills in a less competitive setting? Learn the Gymnasium / Tuesday - Thursday, 1 – 4 p.m. fundamentals of the game from our volunteer instructors. Nets, paddles and balls are provided. For details, call 941-861-1980. Join us for an afternoon of indoor pickleball in an air-conditioned gym. Nets, paddles and balls are provided. Come and see what the craze is all BALLROOM DANCE LESSONS about! For details, call 941-861-1980. Dec. 4 - March 19 / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $43 per person, $85 per TABLE TENNIS - NEW couple for six-week session / Conference Room / Monday, 4 – 5 p.m. Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $2 / Activity Room / Monday, Dance like the stars while you learn the waltz, fox-trot, swing, cha- Friday, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. / Tuesday, Thursday, 1 – 4 p.m. cha and rumba. Lessons are open to all levels. For details, call Vito or Marilyn at 941-496-9692 or email [email protected]. Bring your paddle and join us each week for a fun game of table tennis. Program is open to all skill levels. Loaner equipment is available. For information, call 941-861-1980.

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 15 ENGLEWOOD SPORTS COMPLEX (continued) 1300 S. River Road, Englewood

SPECIAL EVENTS COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE Feb. 17 / All ages / Fee: $15 indoor space, $10 outdoor space, Free HOLIDAY CRAFT SHOW admission for shoppers / Gymnasium and outside parking lot / Saturday, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Dec. 9 / All ages / Fee: Free / Gymnasium / Conference and Activity Rooms / Saturday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. This seventh annual Community Garage Sale will have indoor and outdoor booth spaces for vendors. Cost is $15 for an indoor booth, Shop for that special holiday gift at the sixth annual Holiday Craft with table and chairs, and outdoor space is $10 (vendor must provide RECREATION AND ATHLETICS AND RECREATION Show with more than 120 indoor tables. own table outside). Indoor setup will be available from 1-7 p.m. Friday before sale. Booth space is limited, so reserve early by calling PICKLE/PONG SECRET SANTA SOCIAL 941-861-1980 or email [email protected]. Dec. 15 / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $5 / Gym and Activity Room / 12:30 – 4 p.m. SPRING CRAFT SHOW Join us for an afternoon of indoor pickleball and table tennis play open March 17 / All ages / Fee: Free / Gymnasium / Conference and to all levels. Play from 12:30-3 p.m. and enjoy a pizza party and optional Activity Rooms / Saturday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. secret santa gift exchange from 3-4 p.m. Register at main office or call Shop for gifts at the sixth annual Spring Craft Show with more 941- 861-1980. Loaner paddles available. than120 tables. WINTER CRAFT SHOW Jan. 20 / All ages / Fee: Free / Gymnasium / Conference and Activity Rooms / Saturday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Find a gift at the sixth annual Winter Craft Show with more than 120 indoor tables.

Englewood Sports Complex Pickleball

SARASOTA COUNTY PICKLEBALL SLAM March 27 – 29 / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $10 first event, $5 second event / Outdoor Pickleball Courts / Wednesday - Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Register now for the seventh annual Sarasota County Pickleball Slam. Tournament will feature three doubles divisions: men’s, women’s and mixed that will each be divided into two age divisions if minimum Winter Craft Show at Englewood Sports Complex of eight teams register. Levels 3.5 and up may play outdoors at the Englewood Sports Complex or inside at the Arlington Park Gym. Men will play on March 27, women on March 28 and mixed on March 29. All participants receive a T-shirt and medals are awarded to top finishers. Registration deadline is March 12 and you must have partner secured when signing up. Contact the Englewood Sports Complex at 941-861-1980 for more info or to register.

16 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. KNIGHT TRAIL PARK RECREATION AND ATHLETICS 3445 Rustic Road, Nokomis

Also features: youth group camping. This park offers outdoor reservable space. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275). OUTDOOR PISTOL AND RIFLE RANGE Year-round / All ages / Fees: Adults - $11.95; Youth (under 17) - $9 / Public pistol/rifle range / Wednesday - Sunday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Range distances: 12 yards – Handguns only 25 yards – Handguns, rifles and shotguns (slugs only in shotguns) 50 yards – Handguns, rifles and shotguns (slugs only in shotguns) 100 yards – Rifles and shotguns (slugs only in shotguns) Fees are subject to change. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. ACTIVITIES Adults other than parents/guardians, who accompanying minors to the range, must have a signed FWC release form for each visit. For CAMPING more information, including range rules and minor release forms, visit Year-round / Ages: Youth / Fee: $2 per person (minimum group scgov.net (keywords Knight Trail). size of six) / Primitive campgrounds / Availability varies Primitive tent camping on 377 acres comprised of upland mixed TRAP, SKEET AND CLAY RANGE forest, mesic pine flatwoods, hammocks and depression marshes. Year-round / All ages / Fee: Varies / Trap, Skeet and Clay Range / Camping is available to nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organizations, that serve Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., Thursday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Saturday and youth. For more information, including fees, schedule and camp rules, Sunday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. visit scgov.net (keywords Knight Trail). For reservations, call 941-861-5000 Sarasota Trap, Skeet and Clay Range is located at Knight Trail Park or email [email protected]. and includes four trap fields, three skeet fields and two clay courses. The range is home to the Scholastic Clay Target Program, which is LEKATCHKA ARCHERY CLUB designed to get school-aged boys and girls involved in shooting Year-round / All ages / Fee: Varies / Archery range / Member sports. For more information, visit sarasotatrapskeetandclays.com or hours: Daily 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Public hours: second and fourth call 941-488-3223. Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Lekatchka Archery Club is a 50-acre family archery range located at Knight Trail Park. For more information, visit lekatchkaarchers.com or email [email protected].

SUPPORT THE PARKS YOU LOVE WITH FRIENDS OF SARASOTA COUNTY PARKS

No one can do it alone, and the Friends of Sarasota County Parks organization is certainly no exception. Established in 2003, the Friends is a 501(c)3 organization founded to support the efforts of the Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources with maintaining and increasing the value and importance of our parks as places of natural beauty, recreation and education for all. For more information, visit foscp.org or email [email protected].

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 17 ACY TR G A I E L LAUREL PARK L AND SANDRA SIMS TERRY COMMUNITY CENTER, 509 Collins Road, Laurel A CCESS

Also features: fitness equipment (outdoor), Little Free Library, open area playing field, practice field with backstop. This park offers indoor and outdoor reservable space. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275). VOLLEYBALL December - May / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $2 / Gymnasium / Tuesday and Thursday, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m., / June, Tuesday, 6 – 8 p.m. Join us for this recreational drop-in volleyball program. Open to all

RECREATION AND ATHLETICS AND RECREATION skill levels. For details, call 941-486-2753. SURREY RIDES ON THE LEGACY TRAIL January – March / Ages: 12 and up / Fee: Free / Meet inside the ACTIVITIES lobby / Every Tuesday and Wednesday, first Friday each month, second Saturday each month / 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon each day LOW-IMPACT AEROBICS Ride the surrey with the fringe on top! Join The Friends of The Legacy Trail on a 45-minute guided tour of the history, plants and wildlife Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $5 (Drop-in) or $32 (Four-week of The Legacy Trail! Advanced registration is required; call the Laurel session) / Room A / Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Park office at 941-486-2757. All classes are taught by Sally Ardrey, a certified aerobics instructor who specializes in older-adult fitness and adult coed classes. Each SUMMER DAY CAMP class includes stretching all muscle groups, floor work and 20 minutes of low-impact aerobics. Class meets at the Nokomis Community Park June / Ages: Entering first-sixth grade / Fee: Varies / Community in June. For details, call 941-486-2753. Center / Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 5:45 p.m. The 2018 Summer Camp Guide includes more information about this MEN’S BASKETBALL and other county camps. For more information, visit scgov.net/parks. December - June / Fee: $2 / Ages: 18 and up / Gymnasium / Monday, Thursday, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., (June) 6 – 8 p.m. SPECIAL EVENTS Recreational open-gym basketball for men age 18 and up who love the game, are looking to stay in shape and want to keep their LOCAL AND BLACK HISTORY WEEK competitive edge. Pickup games on Monday and Thursday. For Feb. 22 / All ages / Fee: Free / Front lobby, Gymnasium / 4 – 6 p.m. details, call 941-486-2753. Educational exhibits will be on display and a series of films will be PICKLEBALL shown featuring local heritage and the history of the nation. For details, call 941-486-2753. This event is sponsored by the Laurel Civic December - May / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $2 (Passes available) / Association. Gymnasium / Monday (Advanced) / Wednesday (Beginners and Intermediate) / Friday (All levels) / 9 a.m. – noon JUNK IN THE TRUNK It’s contagious, fun and a great workout! Pickleball is a sport March 3, rain or shine / All ages / Fees: Free admission for shoppers. described as a combination of pingpong, tennis and badminton. For Sellers - $15 for a space / Open Field / Saturday, 8 a.m. – noon details, call 941-486-2753. Bring your wheels, pop the trunk and sell your garage sale items out TABLE TENNIS of your car’s trunk or bed of your truck. Seller spots limited. For details or to book, call 941-486-2753 or email [email protected]. December – May / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $2 / Room A / Wednesday, Friday, 9 – 11 a.m. PLAYGROUND PALS This is not your kid’s pingpong. Bring your paddle for a morning of May 9 / Ages: 3-5 years / Fee: $2 per child / Laurel Park Pavilion / fun, competitive games. Open to all skill levels. (No table tennis the Wednesday, 10 a.m. – noon third Wednesday of every month.) For details, call 941-486-2753. Join us for a little time on the playground after storytime and an arts and crafts project. Snack is provided. Parents are asked to participate and assist child in activities. For details, call 941-486-2753.

18 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. LONGWOOD PARK RECREATION AND ATHLETICS 6050 Longwood Run Blvd., Sarasota

Also features: Miracle League Baseball. This park offers indoor and outdoor reservable space. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275).

experience necessary. Come willing to learn and share. For details, call 941-316-1383. PICKLEBALL December – May / Ages: 16 and up / Fee: $2 (Passes available) / Gymnasium / Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 9 a.m. – noon Join us for a day of indoor pickleball and see what the excitement is all about. Open to all skill levels. For details, call 941-316-1383. ACTIVITIES TABLE TENNIS December – May / Ages: 16 and up / Fee: Free / Room B / GULF COAST CLOGGERS Tuesday, Thursday, 1 – 3 p.m. Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $10 per month / Room B / Increase agility and coordination while enjoying an excellent Monday, 3 – 4 p.m. cardiovascular workout. All skill levels are welcome for this free drop- American clogging is a dance form that began in the Appalachian in activity. Loaner paddles available. For details, call 941-316-1383. Mountains, but is now popular throughout world. All levels welcome. For details, call 941-920-1922 or email [email protected]. WHAT’S YOUR GAME? December – May / Ages: 16 and up / Fee: Free / Room B / UNIVERSITY TAI CHI CLUB Wednesday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $50 per month; $75 per Come test your skills at various card games Bid Whist, Pinochle, couple; $6 per class (First month trial option) / Room B / Tuesday, Bridge, UNO, Canasta, Spades and Cribbage fun for all. For details, call Thursday, 6 – 7 p.m. 941-316-1383. Traditional Yang Style Tai Chi is a slow-movement, internal martial art form that focuses on balance, energy, relaxation and breath control. SUMI-E SOCIETY ART WORKSHOPS For details, call 941-358-6447 or email [email protected]. Sifu Richard Cummings has been teaching at the park for 18 seasons. Jan. 16 and 29, Feb. 12 and 27, March 15 and 26, April 23 / Ages: 18 and up / Room B / Monday, 9:30 a.m. – noon DRAMA KIDS Learn oriental brush techniques from well-known, professional artists. For details, call 941-343-9181 or email [email protected]. December – May / Ages: 5-18 / Fee: $59 per month plus $25 registration fee / Room B / Friday, K-2nd: 4:30 – 5:30 p.m., 3rd-5th: 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., 6th-12th: 6:30 – 7:45 p.m. MIRACLE LEAGUE OF MANASOTA Classes are designed to build verbal communication and acting skills March 12 – May 14 (Spring) / All ages / Miracle League Field / as well as self-esteem. Classes are formed by age. For details, call Saturday, times vary 941-922-8121 or visit dramakids.com/fl1. This baseball league is for individuals with special needs and all ability levels. For details, call 941-255-2966 or visit miracleleaguemanasota.org. MEN’S BASKETBALL LEAGUES December - May (multiple sessions) / Ages: 40+(Mondays) SPECIAL EVENT 50+(Wednesdays) / Fee: $85 per session plus $75 uniform fee (one time) / Gymnasium / Monday, Wednesday, times vary INDOOR COMMUNITY YARD SALE Four-on-four men’s basketball leagues. Equipment, team uniforms Dec. 16, Feb. 17 / All ages / Fee: Free for shoppers. $15 indoor and certified referees provided. For details, contact Dennis Bunker at vending space (includes booth with table and two chairs) / 941-704-8838 or [email protected]. Gymnasium / Saturday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. NO LIMITS CROCHET Indoor community yard sale. Indoor vending setup from 7:30-9:30 p.m. the night before the sale. For details and to reserve vending space, December – May / Ages: 12 and up / Fee: Free / Room B / call 941-316-1383 or email [email protected]. Tuesday, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Bring your needle and some yarn to see what you can do. No

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 19 NATHAN BENDERSON PARK 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota

Also features: stand up paddleboard (SUP). This park offers indoor and outdoor reservable space. To reserve space or equipment, visit NathanBendersonPark.org, contact [email protected] or call 941-358-7275. EQUIPMENT RENTALS Year-round / All ages (under 18 must be accompanied by adult) / Fee: $15 for one hour, package pricing also available / Regatta Island / Daily

RECREATION AND ATHLETICS AND RECREATION Single and double sit-on-top kayaks, stand up paddleboard (SUP) rentals and single scull rentals. For more information or to reserve equipment, visit NathanBendersonPark.org, email [email protected] or call 941-358-7275. ACTIVITIES FITNESS CLASSES Year-round / All ages / Fee: Varies / Location, days and times vary DRAGON BOAT PADDLING: 101, 201 AND TEAM Throughout the year, NBP offers a variety of different fitness groups Year-round / Ages: 12 and up / Fee: $80 / Regatta Island / Days and classes from ChiWalking to yoga to stand up paddleboard fitness. and times vary Check out our programming webpage to see what is coming up next! Dragon Boat 101 and 201 help participants learn the basic paddling TEAM BUILDING skills of dragon boating. Two levels of classes are offered in order to Year-round / All ages / Fee: Varies / Location, days and times vary allow paddlers to participate and progress based on their individual abilities. Team dragon boat paddling will consist of competing in Let NBP lead your team-building event. Whether you are corporate, tournaments. Courses are taught by a nationally certified dragon family, youth or adults, we can tailor the experience to the meet specific boat instructor. Boat, paddle and personal flotation devices will be needs of your group. Call 941-358-7275 or email [email protected]. provided. For details, call 941-358-7275 or email [email protected]. SPECIAL EVENTS LEARN TO ROW: 101, 201 AND PRIVATE LESSONS 22ND ANNUAL BIG TRUCK DAY EGGSTRAVAGANZA Year-round / Ages: 12 and up / Fee: Classes: $150; Private lessons: $55-$110 / Regatta Island / Days and times vary March 31 / Ages: 12 and under / Fee: Free / Pavilion and grounds / Saturday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Classes are designed to provide participants with the opportunity to learn the two different disciplines of rowing (sweep and sculling). Children are invited to climb into more than 20 vehicles including a Instructors are USRowing certified coaches and certified in CPR fire truck, dump truck, construction equipment and more! Egg hunts and first-aid. Students will learn to row in a single shell, fours or begin at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Bring a bag or basket. Games and eights. For details, call 941-358-7275 or email [email protected]. other children’s activities too. Food and beverage vendors available. For information, call 941-861-5000. See event ad on page 7.

NATHAN BENDERSON PARK OFFERS YEAR-ROUND RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALL AGES.

• Boat ramp for small, • A full calendar of non-motorized watercraft, championship events, rowboats and kayaks community causes • Running/biking trail and more encircling the picturesque • Equipment rentals 400-acre lake • Picnic areas • Dog-friendly Visit NathanBendersonPark.org or call 941-358-7275 for more information.

20 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. NEWTOWN ESTATES PARK RECREATION AND ATHLETICS 2800 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota

Also features: Little Free Library, weight room. This park offers indoor and outdoor reservable space. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275). WINTER VACATION IN THE PARKS SCHOOL BREAK PROGRAM Dec. 26-29 and Jan. 2-5 / Ages: Kindergarten - sixth grade / Fee: $20 / Various rooms / Tuesday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. This program offers fun, recreation and instructional activities for children during the school break. No camp Dec. 22 or 25 and Jan. 1. Preregistration required. Register online scgov.net/parks, by phone at 941-861-7275 or by mail, Twin Lakes Park, 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota. ACTIVITIES GARDENING WORKSHOP January - May / All ages / Fee: Free / Game room / Last Wednesday WEDNESDAY WALKERS of each month, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Year-round / All ages / Fee: Free / Gymnasium / Wednesday, 8 a.m. Join us for this informative and fun gardening workshop series where Walk your way to a healthier life and earn an incentive at the end of you will learn all about how to successfully grow and care for your fruit each 10-week session. For details, call 941-316-1161. and vegetable plants. Starter plants are provided for free (supplies and type available varies and are limited) as well as enjoy a healthy lunch on BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB AFTER us! For details, call 941-316-1161. SCHOOL PROGRAM BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB SUMMER CAMP December - May / Ages: Elementary and middle school students / Fee: Free / Multiple rooms / Monday - Friday, after school - 7 p.m. May 29 – Aug. 3/ Closed the week of July 4 / Ages: 5 – 18 / Fee $55 / Various rooms / Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Children who attend will enjoy art and literacy programs, indoor and outdoor team sports, homework help as well as access to game and Children will participate in a variety of activities including arts and computer rooms. For information, call the Boys and Girls Club at crafts, athletic games, board games, reading and so much more. 941-358-2878. Breakfast, lunch and snack are provided. Must attend mandatory parent orientation. For details, call the Boys and Girls Club at 941-358-2878.

SPECIAL EVENTS BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Dec. 16 / Ages: Infant – 12 / Fee: Free (donations accepted) / Various rooms / Saturday, 10 a.m. – noon Children enjoy a holiday breakfast with Santa Claus and receive a gift. For details, call 941-316-1161. GULF COAST GAMES FOR LIFE BASKETBALL SHOOTING Feb. 10 / Ages: 50 and up / Fee: $12 + $3 per event / Gymnasium / Saturday, 9 a.m. Boys and Girls Club Summer Camp Olympic-style competition in free throw, spot field goal and timed field goal. Compete in any or all of the three events. Top five finishers PICKLEBALL in each age category qualify to participate in the Florida State Games December - May / Fee: $2 (Passes available) / Ages: 18 and up / in December. Registration deadline is Friday, Jan. 26. Details are Gymnasium / Wednesday, 9 a.m. – noon / Thursday and Friday, available at scgov.net/parks or call the park office at 941-316-1161. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. It’s contagious, fun and a great workout! Pickleball is a sport described as a combination of pingpong, tennis and badminton. For details, call 941-316-1161.

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 21 ACY TR G A I E L NOKOMIS COMMUNITY PARK L 234 Nippino Trail, Nokomis A CCESS

Also features: covered outdoor stage, fitness equipment (outdoor). This park offers indoor and outdoor reservable space. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275). STAY STRONG CHAIR EXERCISE CLASS Year-round / All ages / Fee: $10 / Game Room / Wednesday, 10 – 11 a.m. Especially beneficial for arthritis, this class offers a fun approach to

RECREATION AND ATHLETICS AND RECREATION staying strong. It is includes stretching, fall prevention, chair yoga, chair tai chi and relaxation. This class is taught by Phyllis, a registered nurse and certified exercise instructor. Call 203-676-5312 to register. ACTIVITIES SUNCOAST TROPICAL FRUIT/VEGETABLE CLUB Year-round / All ages / Fee: Free / Main Hall / Second HAPPY HEARTS FUN DAYS (T-REC) Wednesday, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Year-round / Ages: 16 and up / Fee: Free / Main Hall / Second Join the Suncoast Tropical Fruit and Vegetable Club. You will enjoy a Saturday, 1 – 3 p.m. tasting table each month at 6:30 p.m. prior to the club meeting at 7 p.m. For details, contact [email protected]. Inspiration, encouragement and fun for teens and adults with disabilities in a faith-based, nondenominational setting. Family and caregivers are welcome. Monthly meetings include fellowship, crafts, TAI CHI refreshments, praise, worship and fun activities. For details, call Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: Contact instructor / Main Stephanie Bartlett at 941-497-5419. Hall / Thursday, 6 – 7:30 p.m. This weekly class incorporates stretching and turning into a sequence HOOLA-FIT of movements for a healthy body, mind and spirit. It can also reduce Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: Contact instructor / Main stress and improve balance. For details, call 941-365-0999. Hall / Monday, 7 – 8 p.m. Hoop, dance and fitness come together in one great class. Join THERAPEUTIC YOGA FOR WOMEN certified instructor Heather Kirkendall for this exciting class. For Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $10 / Main Hall / Tuesday, details, call 941-234-6808 or visit PeaceLoveandHoopiness.com. 10 – 11:30 a.m. / Game Room / Friday, 10 – 11:30 a.m. This class is offered twice a week and will explore posture, breathing LINE DANCE and alignment. Create physical and mental strength and increase Year-round / All ages / Fee: $5 / Main Hall / Monday, Friday, range of motion, flexibility and stamina. For details, call 941-485-8904. 10 a.m. – noon Join instructor Jean Hickok to learn the steps and moves to today’s SPECIAL EVENTS popular line dance. Beginners and intermediate are welcome. For details, call 941-266-9641 or visit nokomislinedancers.webbly.com. T-REC CANDY BAR BINGO LINE DANCE Feb. 23 / Ages: 13 and up / Fee: Free / Main Hall / Friday, 6 – 7:30 p.m. Year-round / All ages / Fee: $5 / Main Hall / Thursday, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. All teens and adults with disabilities are invited to come play our special version of Bingo. Please bring a full-size candy bar to exchange for each Learn the steps and moves to today’s popular line dances with Debbie bingo card, up to four cards per person. Winners of each round will win Hornyak. All skill levels welcome. For details, call 941-493-2123. a lot of candy! For more information, please call 941-486-2753. SPIRITUAL DISCUSSION CLASS NOKOMIS COMMUNITY PARK Year-round / All ages / Fee: Free / Art Room / Last Saturday of EGGSTRAVAGANZA EGG HUNT the month, 11 a.m. – noon March 24 / Ages: 10 and under / Fee: Free / Outdoor area / Free spiritual discussion: Have you had a spiritual experience? Saturday, 10 a.m. Discover what your experiences really mean. Connect with other Free Easter egg hunt hosted by the Nokomis East Homeowners like-minded people. Learn new and advanced ways for exploring your Association. Hunt starts promptly at 10 a.m. with prizes for all inner worlds explained in a gift CD. Please email [email protected] participants. Don’t forget your basket! Registration is not required. or call 941-358-0325 to sign up. For details, call 941-486-2595. No rain date. 22 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. PAYNE PARK TENNIS CENTER RECREATION AND ATHLETICS 2050 Adams Lane, Sarasota

Also features: 12 lighted Har-Tru Hydro-Grid courts, ball machine rental, certified instructors, leagues and programming opportunities, professional stringing service. TENNIS: LEAGUES Year-round / Ages: 16 and up / Fee: $20-$40 per league / Monday - Sunday, times vary Leagues vary during the year including Suncoast Men’s, Tri-Cities Ladies, USTA and others. Cost varies per league. Inquire at front desk. 3.0-5.0 Men’s Singles and Doubles 3.0-5.0 Women’s Singles and Doubles 6.0-8.0 Mixed Doubles

TENNIS ADMISSION INFORMATION TENNIS: THURSDAY NIGHT ROUND-ROBIN Monday - Thursday, 7:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: Passholders - Free, $10 non- Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. passholders / Thursday, 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Call 941-343-9995 for info. Fee $8/hour per person Daily, one month, three month or annual passes available TENNIS: SATURDAY ROUND-ROBIN Year-round / Ages: 16 and up / Fee: $5 / Saturday, 1:30 p.m. Our Saturday round-robin is geared for the recreational player looking to meet new players and be part of an organized weekend activity. This program runs year-round. No registration required.

SPECIAL EVENT WEST COAST SUPER SENIOR GRAND PRIX - MEN’S TENNIS TOURNAMENT INSTRUCTIONAL CLASSES Feb. 5-12 / Ages: 55-90 / Fee: $50-$85 / Monday - Sunday, times vary TENNIS: 30-MINUTE PRIVATE LESSON This is the first event in a series of three local events and part of the USTA Grand Prix National Category II level circuit. Skill level advanced. Year-round / Ages: 5 and up / Fee: $30-$35 / Monday – Friday, times vary Enjoy a 30-minute private lesson with one of our certified teaching professionals. Available by appointment only by calling 941- 861-8163. TENNIS: 60-MINUTE PRIVATE LESSON Year-round / Ages: 5 and up / Fee: $50-$60 / Monday - Friday, times vary JOIN OUR AMAZING VOLUNTEER TEAM!

Enjoy a 60-minute private lesson with one of our certified teaching There are many opportunities to volunteer with Sarasota County professionals. Available by appointment only by calling 941- 861-8163. Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources. You are invited to connect with others in your community for a good cause! TENNIS CLINIC: INTERMEDIATE TO ADVANCED • Event Volunteer • Beach Ambassador • Docent Year-round / Ages: 16 and up / Fee: $15 per session / Monday • Trail Steward • Surrey Peddler • Nature Guide and Wednesday, 6 p.m. To find the right opportunity for you visit scgov.net Join one of our certified teaching professionals and raise your game (keyword volunteer). to the next level. Classes are designed to put people with similar skill levels together in an instructional setting. No registration required, drop-ins welcome.

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 23 PHILLIPPI ESTATE PARK 5500 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

Also features: gazebo, Little Free Library. This scenic heritage/nature park showcases the historic Edson Keith Mansion and Keith Farmhouse. For indoor and outdoor reservable space, visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275). ARCHAEOLOGICAL WALKING TOUR Feb. 21, March 14 / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: Free / Estate grounds / Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. A Sarasota County Historical Resources archaeologist will discuss the RECREATION AND ATHLETICS AND RECREATION Phillippi Flake Scatter and the Prodie Shell Midden as you stroll the estate and learn about the prehistory of the area. From 5,000 B.C. to 2,000 B.C., the native population sharpened and produced stone tools on site. The Prodie Shell Midden dates approximately between 400 B.C. to 800 A.D. and represents the Manasota encampment. Tour ACTIVITIES begins in front of the Keith Farmhouse. For details, call 941-316-1309.

GUIDED HISTORIC EDSON KEITH MANSION TOUR MEETINGS Dec. 6- April 25 / Ages: 12 and up / Fee: Free / Edson Keith Mansion / Wednesday, 10 a.m. BRADENTON-SARASOTA ROSE SOCIETY Take a trip through the past with a guided tour of Edson Keith December – June / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: Free / Edson Keith Mansion. The Italian Renaissance mansion was built in 1916 as a Mansion / Fourth Sunday, 2 – 4:30 p.m. private residence and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Guided tour with docent begins promptly at 10 a.m. One tour Meet with fellow rosarians to share their knowledge of roses and only. For details, call 941-316-1309. organize garden tours, seminars, lectures and trips. The society is affiliated with the American Rose Society. Visit b-srs.org. PHILLIPPI FARMHOUSE MARKET Dec. 6 - April 25 / All ages / Fee: Free / Estate grounds / SPECIAL EVENTS Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Sarasota’s only midweek farmers market features local fresh produce, JINGLE PAWS JUBILEE including USDA-certified organic produce, prepared foods, artisans Dec. 3 / All ages / Fee: Free / Estate grounds / Sunday, with crafts and live music. There is ample parking and leashed pets noon – 5 p.m. are welcome. Join in the fun and support local agriculture. For details, call 941-316-1309. This is Sarasota’s sixth annual holiday pet adoption and shopping festival. Animal adoptions, gifts for pets and animal lovers, holiday music, food and treats, holiday costume contest, raffle prizes and family fun. For information, visit JinglePawsJubileeSarasota.com. PHILLIPPI FARMHOUSE MARKET HAS TASTE OF CHANUKAH SOMETHING TO SATISFY EVERY TASTE! Dec. 17 / All ages / Fee: Free / Gazebo / Sunday, 3 – 6 p.m. Where else can you enjoy delicious kosher food, enjoy family-friendly entertainment and celebrate Chanukah with hundreds of your friends and neighbors? Don’t miss the seventh annual Community Chanukah Celebration! For details, visit ATasteofChanukah.com. BROWN BAG LUNCH CONCERTS Feb. 1 – March 29 / All ages / Fee: Free / Gazebo / Thursday, noon – 1 p.m. Enjoy a wide variety of free musical performances at the gazebo in Phillippi Estate Park. Bring your lunch and a lawn chair and enjoy live performances of Dixieland, Big Band, folk and jazz music. For details, call 941-316-1309.

24 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. RECREATION AND ATHLETICS PHILLIPPI ESTATE PARK (continued) 5500 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

WINTERFEST AT THE PARK ROSE FESTIVAL Feb. 3-4 / All ages / Fee: Free / Estate Grounds / Saturday and May 13 / All ages / Fee: Free / Edson Keith Mansion / Saturday, Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Large arts and crafts shows featuring local and national artisans. The Bradenton-Sarasota Rose Society will help you grow beautiful Ample free parking with food and beverages available. For details, call roses in Florida. Rosarians will be available to answer your questions. 941-379-0951. Enjoy informative seminars and displays. Just in time for Mother’s Day, there will be rose bouquets and rose plants for sale. For details, visit JAZZ IN THE PARK b-srs.org or call 941-861-5000. Feb. 18 / All ages / Fee: Free / Gazebo / Sunday, noon – 4 p.m. MEMORIAL DAY CONCERT Come to the kickoff concert celebrating Sarasota’s Jazz Festival and May 28 / All ages / Fee: $5, children free / Gazebo / Monday, 5 – 7 p.m. bring your lawn chair. The concert is free to the public. Donations to the Jazz Club of Sarasota are always welcome. For details, visit Sarasota Concert Band presents its annual Memorial Day Concert. jazzclubsarasota.com. Bring your lawn chair. Food and beverage vendors will be available. For details, call 941-364-2263.

Art show at Phillippi Estate Park PHILLIPPI ARTS IN THE PARK - QUICK DRAW CONTEST Feb. 28 / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $20 / Estate grounds / Wednesday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Grab your paints! Everyone can paint at Phillippi Farmhouse Market Quick Draw. Registration required. For information, visit lightchasersinc.com. HOST YOUR NEXT EVENT AT PHILLIPPI ESTATE PARK, A SCENIC, 60-ACRE PARK MASTER ARTISTS AND LIGHT CHASERS SIXTH ON THE SHORES OF PHILLIPPI CREEK. ANNUAL ART SHOW AND SALE March 16 -18 / Fee: Donation at the door, benefiting Historic Keith • The historic and classic Edson Keith Mansion hosts Farmhouse / Edson Keith Mansion / Friday and Saturday, 5 – 8 p.m.; weddings, fundraising events, corporate events, luncheons Sunday, noon – 4 p.m. and awards banquets. All paintings are available for purchase with a portion of the • The gazebo is perfect for children’s birthday parties, small proceeds going to the renovation of the 1916 historic Keith weddings, family reunions and memorial services. The Gazebo Farmhouse at Phillippi Estate Park. On Saturday, March 17, the show can be rented by itself or along with a large open area for expands to include the Paint Sarasota Paint Out! For details, visit larger festivals, concerts and parties. [email protected] or call 941-861-5000. • Outdoor rental space is available at the front of the park, and offers ample space for large fundraising gatherings, festivals CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HOBNOB and arts and crafts shows, with separate parking available on the south field of the park. March 21 / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $40 / Gazebo / Wednesday, 5 – 9 p.m. For more information, please call the Phillippi Estate Park office at 941-316-1309. Sarasota’s premier meet-and-greet event. Join in the fun and excitement. For more information, visit SarasotaChamber.com.

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 25 TWIN LAKES PARK 6700 Clark Road, Sarasota

This park offers indoor and outdoor reservable space. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275).

GULF COAST GAMES FOR LIFE Feb. 10-16 / Ages: 50 and up / Fee: $12 + $3 per event / Various location throughout Manatee and Sarasota counties / Saturday through Friday, times vary

RECREATION AND ATHLETICS AND RECREATION Olympic-style competitions are offered in a variety of sporting events. Registration deadline is Friday, Jan. 26. Competition is organized in five-year age divisions beginning with ages 50-54. Participants receive a custom event T-shirt. Medals are awarded to first, second and third place in each age category. The top five finishers per age category will SPECIAL EVENTS qualify to compete in the Florida State Games held in December. View the brochure online at scgov.net/parks or call T-REC WINTER WALK DAY 941-861-5000 for information. Feb. 21 / Ages: 13 and up / Fee: Free / Pavilion / Wednesday, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. All teens and adults with disabilities are invited to participate in this day. Enjoy a walk around the lake and take part in a group tai chi class. Wear walking shoes and bring your lunch to enjoy at the park. Water and healthy snacks will be provided. RSVP by calling 941-486-2753.

VENICE COMMUNITY CENTER 326 S. Nokomis Ave., Venice

• ....n.,mJ .,J Facility rental opportunities include a ballroom with a large stage, professional-grade theatrical lighting and sound, a commercial kitchen, nine meeting rooms and ample parking. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275). 941-496-9692. MORNING ZUMBA Year-round / Ages: Adult / Fee: $6 / Room D / Monday and Thursday, 9 – 10 a.m. Start your day dressed in something comfortable, including your shoes, and dance your way to a fitter you with exciting Latin moves and rhythms. For details, call 941-493-8630. ACTIVITIES ORCHID SOCIETY MONTHLY MEETINGS Year-round / Ages: Adult / Fee: Varies / Room D / Wednesday, BALLROOM DANCING LESSONS 7 – 10 p.m. Year-round / Ages: Adult / Fee: $40 per person per six-week session / Everything you ever wanted to know about orchids is discussed at Room C / Wednesday, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. these meetings. Beginner orchid fans welcome. For details, call Wish you could dance like the competitors on “Dancing with the Stars?” 941-497-4995. Learn the waltz, fox-trot, swing, cha-cha and rumba. For details, call

26 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. RECREATION AND ATHLETICS VENICE COMMUNITY CENTER (continued)

PICKLEBALL ANTIQUE SHOWS Year-round / Ages: Adult / Fee: $20 for 10 plays or $50 for 25 plays / Jan. 6 and 7, Feb. 17 and 18 / Ages: Adults / Fee: $5 / Ballroom / Ballroom / Monday, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Join the pickleball craze. Intermediate/advanced players play 11 a.m. Find the best antiques all under one roof. Furniture, collectibles, - 2 p.m., followed by open play 2 – 5 p.m., and beginners, from 5 – 8 jewelry, artwork and much more. For details, call 315-430-8296 or p.m. Loaner paddles available. For details, call 941-861-1380. email [email protected]. SENIOR FIT BOOT CAMP SARASOTA INSTITUTE OF LIFETIME LEARNING (SILL) LECTURE SERIES Year-round / Ages: Adult / Fee: Varies / Room G / Tuesday and Thursday, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Jan. 9 - March 30 / Ages: Adult / Fee: Varies / Room A / Tuesday, 2 – 4 p.m., Friday, 10 a.m. – noon Want to lose weight, but you’re new to exercise and reluctant to try boot camp due to your age or a nagging injury? This is the perfect The SILL global issues lecture series features renowned speakers who are program for you. It is taught by J.D. Doyle, M. Ed., ACE clinical exercise experts in their fields and cover a broad range of topics about important specialist. To register, visit sarasotabootcamp.com, call 941-685-1081 international and domestic issues. Visit sillsarasota.org for details. Program or email [email protected]. booklets available at the community center in November. TAI CHI FOR HEALTH VENICE AREA ORCHID SHOW Year-round / Ages: Adult / Fee: $6 / Room C / Tuesday and Feb. 3 – 4 / All ages / Fee: Free / Ballroom / Saturday, 11 a.m. – Thursday, 10:30 – 11: 30 a.m. 5 p.m., Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tai Chi for Health is taught by certified instructor Nancy Dellamura. Thousands of blooming orchids in 20 artistic displays. Plants, supplies Improve balance, increase flexibility, lower your blood pressure, and orchid art from 15 premier vendors presented by the Venice Area increase bone density, strengthen joints and boost brain function. Tai Orchid Society. Visit vaos.org for information. chi is low impact and especially beneficial to individuals with arthritis. For details, call 941-492-2167 or email [email protected]. 2017-2018 SEASON SHOW SCHEDULE For more details and to purchase tickets, go to allengang.com. VENICE FLORIDA CORVETTES MEETINGS GET READY - A MOTOWN EXPERIENCE Year-round / Ages: Adult / Fee: Varies / Room D / First Tuesday, 7 – 9 p.m. Jan. 20 / Ages: Adults / Tickets: $20+ / Ballroom / Saturday, 7:30 p.m. show Join fellow Corvette enthusiasts the first Tuesday of every month. For Soul, style and sophistication with groups like The Temptations, details, call 941-966-6351. The Four Tops, and Gladys Knight & the Pips. We’re bringing it all back. VENICE SAILING SQUADRON MONTHLY MEETINGS SAVANNAH JACK January – April / Ages: Adult / Fee: Varies / Room D / Second Jan. 26 / Ages: Adults / Tickets: $20+ / Ballroom / Friday, 7:30 p.m. show Wednesday, 6:30 – 9 p.m. A dynamic stage show that infuses world-class vocals with a high level The Venice Sailing Squadron meets the second Wednesday of every of energy and showmanship. month, September through April. For details, call 303-840-2029. ORLANDO TRANSIT AUTHORITY - A CHICAGO TRIBUTE AARP FREE TAX PREPARATION Feb. 24 / Ages: Adults / Tickets: $20+ / Ballroom / Saturday, 7:30 p.m. show Feb. 6 – April 12 / All ages / Fee: Free / Room E / Tuesday, OTA is a high-energy Chicago tribute show made up of A-list players. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Wednesday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Thursday, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Free tax preparation assistance for all ages. No appointments, first- QUEEN NATION - A QUEEN TRIBUTE come, first-served. Please bring last year’s taxes with you. March 1 / Ages: Adult / Tickets: $20+ / Ballroom / Thursday, 7:30 p.m. show Amazing accuracy of Queen Nation’s live retrospective journey with such SPECIAL EVENTS Queen songs as “We Will Rock You,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” and many more. OLDIES DOO WOP DANCES RUS ANDERSON - THE ROCKET MAN (ELTON JOHN TRIBUTE) Dec. 2, Jan. 13, Feb. 23, March 31, April 21 / Ages: Adult / Fee: $17 / Ballroom / Saturday (except February) 7 – 10 p.m. April 7 / Ages: Adult / Tickets: $20+ / Ballroom / Saturday, 7:30 p.m. show Music by Kim Jenkins. Bring your own beverages and snacks. For The show is an exact reenactment of an early Elton John concert tickets or information, call 941-276-6194. featuring exact replica costumes and 100-percent live instruments. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 27 Try your hand at PICKLEBALL The fastest growing sport in America! Laurel Park OUTDOOR PICKLEBALL 509 Collins Road, Laurel • 2 courts Advanced – Monday, 9 a.m.-noon By-Pass Park/Foxworthy Campus Beginner/Intermediate – Wednesday 9 a.m.-noon 1101 Gulf Coast Blvd., Venice • 8 courts Open Play – Friday, 9 a.m.-noon Colonial Oaks Park 5300 Colonial Oaks Blvd., Sarasota • 1 court Longwood Park 6050 Longwood Run Blvd., Sarasota • 2 courts Englewood Sports Complex Open Play – Monday/Tuesday/Thursday/Friday, 1300 S. River Road, Englewood • 10 courts (*4) 9 a.m.-noon Hecksher Park INDOOR PICKLEBALL 450 W. Venice Ave., Venice • *2 courts Newtown Estates Park Arlington Park 2800 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota • 4 courts Longwood Park 2650 Waldemere St., Sarasota • 4 courts Advanced Play – Wednesday, 9 a.m.-noon 6050 Longwood Run Blvd., Sarasota • 1 court Beginner/Intermediate – Tuesday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Open Play – Thursday/Friday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Newtown Estates Park Open Play – Thursday 10 a.m.-1p.m. 2800 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota • *2 courts Advanced – Friday 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Venice Community Center 326 S. Nokomis Ave., Venice • 4 courts Nokomis Community Park Colonial Oaks Park Intermediate – Monday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. 234 E. Nippino Trail, Nokomis • *4 courts 5300 Colonial Oaks Blvd., Sarasota • 2 courts Beginner – Monday, 2-5 p.m. Pinebrook/Wellfield Park Advanced – Monday, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Open Play – Monday, 5-8 p.m. 1251 Pinebrook Road, Venice • 2 courts Beginner/Intermediate – Wednesday 1-4 p.m. Woodmere Park Siesta Beach Englewood Sports Complex 3951 Woodmere Park Blvd., Venice • 2 courts 948 Beach Road, Siesta Key •*4 courts 1300 S. River Road, Englewood • 4 courts Open Play – Wednesday/Thursday, Youth Athletic Complex Open Play – Tuesday/ Thursday, 1-4 p.m. 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 2810 17th St., Sarasota • 1 court Beginner – Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. For more information, call Intermediate – Wednesday, 1-4 p.m. *Dates and times subject to change 941-861-5000 *Nontraditional courts - bring your own net! PICKLEBALL PUNCH PASSES

Sold and accepted at all Sarasota County indoor pickleball sites. 10 plays for $20 25 plays for $50

IT STARTS IN Sarasota County prohibits discrimination in all services, programs and activities. View the complete policy at scgov.net/ADA Sarasotaa Counjy P*RKSFor more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. RECREATION AND ATHLETICS ACY TR G A I E L VENICE TRAIN DEPOT L AND ROLLINS W. COAKLEY RAILROAD PARK, 303 E. Venice Ave., Venice A CCESS

Also features: historic railroad car. Neighboring complex of parks offer a boat ramp, playground and a canoe/kayak launch. This park offers indoor and outdoor reservable space. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275). ACTIVITIES VENICE TRAIN DEPOT TOURS Year-round / All ages / Fee: Free / Lobby / Dates and times vary The Venice Area Historical Society conducts tours of the Historic Venice Train Depot and Rollins W. Coakley Railroad Park. For details, visit veniceareahistoricalsociety.org, call 941-412-0151 or email [email protected]. RENTALS

The Train Depot Platform has architectural appeal with its high arches and a large patio area. There is plenty of room for a large crowd, display space for vendors, band and dance area, tables and chairs. A beautiful setting overlooks the Intracoastal Waterway. The sunsets are nothing short of spectacular! The depot is home to a caboose, built in 1974 for the Louisville & Nashville Railroad. The caboose has a large 1,920-square-foot attached patio. The patio is the perfect spot for birthday parties or small events. It’s been home to many wedding services and vow renewal ceremonies. Say your vows and have your reception just steps away on the platform or in the Freight Room. The patio is equipped with an elevator for guests with disabilities.

New Playground at Legacy Park

For more information, call 941-861-5000

HOST YOUR NEXT SPECIAL EVENT AT THE HISTORIC VENICE TRAIN DEPOT!

The Venice Train Depot has a variety of reservable space available including the rustic Freight Room, the Train Depot Platform overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway or the patio of an authentic railroad caboose. View facilities and request reservations at scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-1380.

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 29 WOODMERE PARK 3951 Woodmere Park Blvd., Venice

Also features: reservable pavilion. This park offers indoor and outdoor reservable space. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275). LATIN AND RHYTHM DANCING Year-round / Ages: 15 and up / Fee: Per instructor / Gymnasium / Thursday, 7:45 – 8:45 p.m. Join fusion dance instructor Brenda Liz Atherley for a dance series

RECREATION AND ATHLETICS AND RECREATION including salsa, merengue, east coast swing, cha-cha and bachata. Singles and couples are welcome. Buy tickets online at FuzionDanze.com or call Brenda at 941-276-1778. ZUMBA ACTIVITIES Year-round / All ages / Fee: Per instructor / Gymnasium ALLIGATOR CREEK TRAIL Zumba is a fun class for all ages featuring Latin and international dance fitness. Have fun and dance your way to a fitter you! Year-round / All ages / Fee: Free / Trail / Daily, sunrise to sunset For information and pricing, please contact instructor. Enjoy Woodmere Park’s newest amenity, 1.6 miles of pedestrian/ Monday 9 – 10 a.m. Lynn Scott 941-493-8630 bicycle-friendly trail along Alligator Creek. This serene, nature lover’s Saturday 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Brenda Liz Atherley 941-276-1778 paradise has abundant wildlife, including hawks and alligators. Bring a water bottle and take a break on the bench near a Florida- PICKLEBALL designated “grand” tree. For details, call 941-486-2780. December– May / Ages: 15 and up / Fee: $2 (Passes available) / JAZZERCISE Gymnasium / Wednesday and Thursday, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. This game is contagious, fun and a great workout. Pickleball is a sport Year-round / Ages: 15 and up / Fee: Varies / Gymnasium / described as a combination of ping pong, tennis and badminton. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 9 – 10 a.m., Tuesday and Thursday, 6:15 – 7:15 p.m. TABLE TENNIS Join this fun, high-intensity dance aerobic workout program, which offers a fusion of jazz dance, resistance training yoga, Pilates and kickboxing December – May / Ages: 15 and up / Fee: $2 / Gymnasium / movements. Benefits include increased cardiovascular endurance, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. strength and flexibility, as well as an overall “feel good” factor. For details, Increase your agility and coordination while enjoying an excellent call 941-492-2084 or email [email protected]. cardiovascular workout. All skill levels are welcome. Drop-in sessions open to all skill levels.

Woodmere Park Pickleball

30 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. RECREATION AND ATHLETICS WOODMERE PARK (continued) 3951 Woodmere Park Blvd., Venice

SPECIAL EVENTS COMMUNITY GARAGE SALES Jan. 6, Feb. 3, March 3 / All ages / Fee: Free admission, $25 indoor vendor space and $15 outdoor vendor space / Gymnasium and grounds / Saturday, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Clear your closets and make some cash at one of our community garage sales. Indoor vendor space includes one 8-foot table and chair. SQUARE DANCING LESSONS Outdoor vendor space includes an assigned area of approximately Dec. 1 – April 27 / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: Varies / Gymnasium / 100 square feet; bring own tables and chairs. Booth space is Tuesday and Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. assigned by Sarasota County staff to maximize space, comfort and safety. Indoor setup is Friday evening before the sale from 6-8 p.m. Square dancing is fun, great physical and mental exercise. Square Outdoor setup is at 7 a.m. For details, call 941-861-5000, email dancing is interactive and challenging, and dances are a great [email protected] or visit scgov.net/parks. place to meet people and make new friends. Classes are taught by America’s best, Gordon “Red” Bates. Classes and dances for many skill levels are offered. Call 941-223-0987 or email [email protected] for prices and schedules. MEN’S BASKETBALL Dec. 4 – March 26 / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $2 / Gymnasium / Monday, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. This drop-in program is open to all skill levels. BUTTONS AND BOWS SQUARE DANCING Dec. 9 – March 31 / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: Varies / Gymnasium / Saturday, 3 – 5 p.m. Buttons and Bows Square Dance Club holds themed dances each Saturday afternoon. Guest callers and potluck celebrations are a great addition to these fun-filled dance socials. For details, call Neil Crane at 941-484-8543. Woodmere Park Community Garage Sale SLOW FLOW YOGA BY ALEXIS Jan. 8 – March 26 / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: Contact instructor for VENICE DOLL CLUB SHOW pricing / Room B1 / Mondays, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. March 17 / Ages: Adults / Fee: Free / Gymnasium / Saturday, Stretch, strengthen, relax and enjoy. This is a great class to learn 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. yoga or to move forward in your personal practice. Contact certified Few artifacts reflect our history as accurately as dolls. Enjoy one of instructor Alexis McErlain, RN for information or consultation at the largest hobby group’s enthusiastic presentation. For information, 231-282-1716. contact Mary Falcone at 941-312-4568. AARP FREE TAX PREPARATION WINGS, WHEELS AND KEELS Jan. 30 – April 12 / All ages / Fee: Free / Room B2 / Tuesday and SCALE MODEL SHOW Thursday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. March 24 / All ages / Fee: Free / Gymnasium / Saturday, AARP volunteers provide free tax preparation assistance to all ages. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. No appointments are necessary, first-come, first-served. Please bring last year’s taxes with you. Parks staff does not have blank tax forms and Annual model show features planes, cars, military vehicles and cannot answer tax inquiries. Call the IRS Tax Help Line 800-829-1040. figures. Contest for show participants, contact John Cleary at 941-807-0003.

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 31 BEACHES AND WATER ACCESS

Subject matter experts answer some of your “most-asked” questions.

Q. What kinds of birds will I see on Sarasota County beaches and waterways in the winter months? A. Our beaches and waterways are home to many migrating winter birds. One of the first birds to fly south to Sarasota County in September is the belted kingfisher. Ask the Experts! When you hear the welcome call of the belted kingfisher, you know that many other feathered snowbirds are soon to follow. Birds migrate to Florida in search of food and shelter to escape the cold winter months in northern states. Another early bird to arrive is the gray catbird.

White pelicans and roseate spoonbills may be observed in our bays and shallow waterways. Along the beaches, keep an eye out for black-bellied and semipalmated plovers foraging for food at the water’s edge. Other winter shorebirds to look for are ruddy turnstones, red knots, dunlins and marbled godwits. Of course, you will also be able to observe our year-round residents like the great blue heron, snowy egret, brown pelican, great egret, tricolored herons and an occasional reddish egret.

Look for a wide variety of smaller birds like warblers and vireos. Listen for American robins and cedar waxwings flying above. Take a look at the numerous waterfowl found on our local ponds and lakes: green winged teal, wood ducks and black-bellied whistling ducks.

To submit your question for upcoming publications, please email [email protected].

DID YOU KNOW SARASOTA COUNTY HAS MORE THAN 35 MILES OF BEACHES?

BLIND PASS BEACH NORTH JETTY PARK BROHARD PARK SIESTA BEACH CASPERSEN BEACH TED SPERLING PARK AT SOUTH LIDO BEACH LIDO BEACH TURTLE BEACH MANASOTA BEACH VENICE BEACH NOKOMIS BEACH

NORTH JETTY PARK T-REC BEACH PARTY

Join us Wednesday, April 11, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the pavilion. All individuals with disabilities ages 13 and up are invited to dance with your friends, listen to your favorite tunes or play a game in the sand. Bring your brown bag lunch. Beach wheelchairs, water and healthy snacks will be available. To RSVP or for more information, please call 941-486-2753.

lifeguarded beach

32 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. REFRESHING FROZEN LEMONADE AND MORE CAN BE FOUND AT SIESTA BEACH!

Make sure to try the boom-boom popcorn shrimp with fries at the Siesta Beach Pavilion - a local favorite! Buffalo flatbread pizza is a close second. And don’t forget to try the frozen lemonade!

NORTH JETTY TAP & GRILL-GREAT FOOD JUST STEPS FROM THE BEACH!

What could be better on a hot beach day than an Oasis Smoothie or famous Jetty Hot Dog at North Jetty Tap & Grill? You will also find a full menu including breakfast, beverages, sandwiches, salads and even root beer floats!

Ryan Gamma, photographer

GOOD FOOD FAST, NOT FAST FOOD!

Nokomis Beach Shark Tooth Beach Concession offers a variety of delectables including harmonious breakfast hash bowls and barbecue pulled pork sandwiches. Come back later for some banana split Dippin’ Dots!

BITES, BASKETS AND BOOGIE BOARDS AT VENICE BEACH!

Enjoy an icy cold beverage and choose from a variety of awesome food and quick bites under the shady awning at the Pilot House, just steps from Venice Beach. Boogie boards, umbrellas, beach mats and more are also available!

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 33 BEACHES AND WATER ACCESS 34 details, call941-861-5000. sand. your Bring own date chairsandblankets. 28.For April Rain Come relax andwatch amovie under the starswithyour toes inthe April 21/All ages/Fee: Free /Saturday, /Beach sunset space.outdoor reservable Visit scgov.net 941-861-PARK (keyword orcontact reservations) (7275). Also features: beachandpoollifeguards onduty, located nearSt. Armand’s Circle, former location ofthehistorical LidoCasino. This offers park Franklin400 Benjamin Drive, Sarasota afreeruns andearn custom T-shirt alongwithotherprizes. receive andice ribbon popat eachrun.Complete aparticipation four Weekly registration begins at 5:30p.m. withrace timeat 6:30p.m. Kids for familiesto exerciseopportunity together andhave funat thebeach! isasummerfavorite funrunfor kids andagreatThis one-mile Wednesday, 5:30 –7p.m. June 6-Aug. 8/Ages: 1-17/Free / Venice Fishing Pier / Features the Venice Fishing Pier andSharkey’s Restaurant. 1600 HarborDrive S., Venice MOONLIGHT MOVIE KIDS’ SUMMER BEACH RUNS BROHARD PARK LIDO BEACH ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES For more information andregistration, visitscgov.net/parks, orcall 941-861-5000. SA~ASOTA FILM FESTIVAL TED SPERLING PARK AT SOUTH LIDO BEACH! ENJOY YOUR FAVORITE ACTIVITIES AT SOUTH BROHARD BEACH PAW PARK! leash-free at Brohard South Paw Beach Park? • Picnicking • S • Nature trails and volleyball Did youDid dogscanrunandplay know DOGS LOVE • Kayak andcanoetrails • Wildlife/birdwatching • Playground

For more information andregistration, visitscgov.net/parks, orcall 941-861-5000. BEACHES AND WATER ACCESS 35 , and the Myakka River/ Phillippi Creek, the Phillippi Trail the , the Dona Bay/Roberts Trails, Bay Sarasota County a diverse to has blend areas of natural a through Paddle blueways. the paddling explore while forest and view the wildlife of the estuaries.mangrove creeks and and lagoons bayous, bays, the along Paddle “Wild designated explore of Florida’s areas the natural and Scenic” Myakka River. Sarasota to any go Paddling Guide, find a Blueways To scgov.net online at view this publication or to Park County paddle guide) parks/blueways (keywords SPECIAL EVENTS SPECIAL YOUTH FISHING SPRING TOURNAMENT SPRING FISHING YOUTH BAREFOOT ON THE BEACH THE ON BAREFOOT BASH BEACH NOKOMIS ANNUAL NINTH March 18 / All ages / Fee: Free / Plaza / Sunday, 1 – 6 p.m. / Sunday, / Plaza Free ages / Fee: 18 / All March beach chair and own Bring your bands. and great beverages Food, call 941-650-6088. details, For some fun in the sun. enjoy 8 – 10:30 a.m. / Beach / Saturday, Free 1-14 / Fee: 12 / Ages: May tournament. this catch-and-release pole and tackle for your Grab box must Children presented. are and awards provided are Bait and prizes Preregistration this event. at be supervised a parent/guardian by at begins calling 941-486-2780. Day-of-event by registration preferred – 10:30 a.m. is 8:30 tournament The 8 a.m. Jan. 13, Feb. 10, March 10 / All ages / Fee: Free admission, booth admission, Free ages / Fee: 10 / All 10, March 13, Feb. Jan. - 2 p.m. 10 a.m. varyfees / Saturday, / Plaza 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. from of each month Saturday Join us on the second handmade arts music, and a beautiful beach atmosphere, Enjoy on the Beach kids. Barefoot for and fun programs refreshments crafts, (just Nokomis Key Road, 100 Casey at will take place the Albee over application, a vendor receive or to information more Road Bridge). For call 941-861-5000. Myakka River/Carlton Trail , the Myakka River/Carlton , the Lido and South Lido Trails , the South Creek Trail . For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. or call visit scgov.net/parks, information and registration, more For the Lemon Trail Bay

Discover Sarasota County’s natural beauty, its Sarasota wildlife unique beauty, and habitats explore natural County’s you as Discover the beautiful waterways the of county. highlighted waterways explore area to with suggested (paddling trails) blueways There 11 are The guide. Sarasota this in Trail Bay the Neville Marine Preserve Trail Caspersen Trail, Myakkahatchee Creek Trails BLUEWAYS PADDLING GUIDE PADDLING BLUEWAYS A GUIDE TO SARASOTA’S KAYAK AND CANOE TRAILS CANOE AND KAYAK SARASOTA’S TO GUIDE A

ACTIVITIES NOKOMIS BEACH PARK PARK BEACH NOKOMIS

SUNRISE BEACH WALKS SUNRISE BEACH HOOLA-FIT and receive an event T-shirt. For details, call 941-861-5000. details, For T-shirt. event an and receive Register before your one-mile walks your four minimum walk. before Complete Register Participate in this self-guided along our beautiful beach. Participate beach walk 8 – 9:30 a.m. Feb. 1 - March 28 / Ages: Adult / Fee: $5 / Beach / Wednesday, Wednesday, $5 / Beach / / Fee: Adult 28 / Ages: 1 - March Feb. details, call 941-234-6808 or visit peaceloveandhoopiness.com. call 941-234-6808 or details, certified instructor Heather Kirkendall for this exciting class. For certified class. instructorexciting for this Heather Kirkendall Hoop, dance and fitness come together in one great class. Join class. great together in one come fitness and dance Hoop, for $80 / Beach / Monday through Friday, 8 – 9 a.m. Friday, through $80 / Beach / Monday for Year-round / Ages: 18 and up / Fee: $15 per class or eight classes $15 per class or eight 18 and up / Fee: / Ages: Year-round

Also features: sand volleyball. This park offers indoor reservable space. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275). reservations) contact or (keyword 941-861-PARK Visit scgov.net reservable indoor park space. offers This sand volleyball. features: Also 100 Casey Key Road, Nokomis Nokomis Road, Key 100 Casey For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. or call visit scgov.net/parks, information and registration, more For BEACHES AND WATER ACCESS 36 20. For details, call941-861-5000. sand. your Bring own dates chairsandblankets. Dec. Rain 16andApril Come relax andwatch amovie under the starswithyour toes inthe Dec.15, April 6/All ages/Fee: Free /Friday, /Beach sunset Call 941-861-5000 for information. Dr. Anderson-DOCS. Registration day HeidiK. ofevent 7a.m. event by theManasota issanctioned Track Clubandco-sponsored by receives along-sleeve Claws Sandy T-shirt whilesupplieslast. This Eachregistered funrunor5K. participant Participate inaone-mile registration, 8a.m.Fun 8:20a.m.5Krunstart Runstart, Fee: / $30 youth, Beach $35 / adults a.m. 9 7 / Dec. Saturday, 41ST ANNUAL SANDY CLAWS BEACH RUN prizes. For details, call941-861-5000. Complete four afree runsandearn custom T-shirt alongwithother p.m. receive andice ribbon popat Kids eachrun. aparticipation beach! Weekly registration begins at 5:30p.m. withrace timeat 6:30 for familiesto exerciseopportunity together andhave funat the isasummer favorite funrunfor kids andagreatThis one-mile June 5-Aug. 7/Ages: 1-17/Free / /Beach Tuesday, 5:30–7p.m. and receive anevent T-shirt. For details, call941-861-5000. Register Complete before minimumwalk. four your walks one-mile beachwalkParticipate alongourbeautifulbeach. inthisself-guided 8 –9:30a.m. Feb. 1-March 28/Ages: Adult /Fee: / $5/Beach Wednesday, 941-861-PARK(keyword orcontact reservations) (7275). Also features: sandvolleyball. andenjoy Relax lunchontheSiestaSundeck. This offers park space/pavilions. outdoor reservable Visit scgov.net Road,948 Beach Sarasota MOONLIGHT MOVIE SERIES KIDS’ SUMMER BEACH RUNS BEACHSUNRISE WALKS SIESTA BEACH SPECIAL EVENTS ACTIVITIES For more information andregistration, visitscgov.net/parks, orcall 941-861-5000. or vote for your favorite. For details, call941-861-5000. sculpting lasting until 1 p.m. Come and build your own sand sculpture including People’s Choice. Registration begins at 8:30a.m.with Children andadultscompete invariouscategories for cashprizes, Join usfor the46thAnnual Sculpture Sand Contest at SiestaBeach. Saturday, 8:30a.m.–2:30p.m. May 5/All ages/Fee: Free near /Beach Yellow Lifeguard Stand / 46TH ANNUAL SIESTA BEACH AMATEUR SAND educators. For details, call941-861-5000. Presenters includestate naturalists andlocalpark andwildlife educationof community seminarsaboutourbeachesandhabitat. The Ambassadors present Siesta Beach University, Beach aseries Wednesday, 9:30–10:30a.m. March 7, 14,21,28/Ages: 10andup/Fee: Free Pavilion /Main / 941-861-5000. promptly at 6p.m. Register by Monday, Feb. 11.For details, call begin at 5p.m.and activities beginsThe nondenominational service on thebeachandlight refreshments. Check-in begins at 4:30p.m. EventBeach. includescommemorative certificate, flower, gift, music Celebrate arenewal ofwedding vows at sunsetonbeautiful Siesta Wednesday, 6 p.m. Feb. 14/Ages: Adults /Fee: $10percouple / /Beach SCULPTURE CONTEST BEACH UNIVERSITY SAY ‘I DO’ AGAIN each boasts thatithasthefinest,each boasts whitest “

beach safety foritsvisitors.” safety beach environmentally healthy offersfirst-rate and beach locationbeautiful forbeachgoers, butitisalsoan Beach.”Leatherman, “Dr. a isnotonly “SiestaBeach lovers beach and from allover,” says Dr. Stephen intheworld,sand collectors whichattracts sand Siesta B NAMED THE NO. 1 BEACH IN AMERICA! SIESTA BEACH ONCE AGAIN

For more information andregistration, visitscgov.net/parks, orcall 941-861-5000. BEACHES AND WATER ACCESS 37

SPECIAL EVENT SPECIAL open-air trolley into town and visit all that Siesta Village and Village Siesta and visit all that town into open-air trolley restaurants, including offer other parts to of the key have the protect To and more. sightseeing rentals, recreational service animals). (except allowed are no pets areas, natural call 941-861-CAMP reservations, (2267) or visit For information. more for scgov.net/turtlebeachcampground also are Beach Park Turtle neighboring amenities at All guests. campground to accessible SAY ‘I DO’ AGAIN AGAIN DO’ ‘I SAY Feb. 14 / Ages: Adults / Fee: $10 per couple / Beach / $10 per couple / Fee: Adults 14 / Ages: Feb. 6 p.m. Wednesday, Venice sunset on beautiful at vows of wedding a renewal Celebrate gift, flower, certificate, includes commemorative Beach. Event at begins Check-in refreshments. music on the beach and light nondenominational The and activities 5 p.m. at begin 4:30 p.m. 11. Feb. Monday, by Register 6 p.m. service at promptly begins For details, call 941-861-5000. details, For For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. or call visit scgov.net/parks, information and registration, more For Year-round / Rates start / Rates $42 per night at Year-round CAMP AT ONE OF ONE CAMP AT 8862 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key Key Siesta Road, Pass 8862 Midnight FLORIDA’S FINEST BEACHES! FINEST FLORIDA’S

TURTLE BEACH CAMPGROUND BEACH TURTLE

Turtle Beach Campground is Sarasota County’s premier premier County’s is Sarasota Beach Campground Turtle sunset, sunrise to From on Siesta Key. campground beachfront This is nothing like camping next the Gulf of Mexico. to there with full 39 RV sites tent and features boutique campground tree-linedThe hookups including 50 amp electrical services. and a picnic has crushed shell padded campsites campground the beach to stroll only a moment’s are You each site. table at away just minutes Camp personal paradise. own and your the free, Take 1 Beach in the U.S. Siesta Beach, the No. from

VENICE BEACH VENICE in the area. Also features: sand volleyball, historic pavilion, shaded concession areas, popular destination for divers looking to explore the artificial looking divers explore reef to for destination popular areas, shaded concession pavilion, historic sand volleyball, features: Also 101 The Esplanade, Venice 101 The Venice Esplanade, For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. or call visit scgov.net/parks, information and registration, more For NATURAL AREAS

Subject matter experts answer some of your “most-asked” questions.

Q. I sometimes see the Sarasota County Fire Department burning areas of our parks. Why do they do that, and how do they decide where to burn? •A. That is a very good question! “Prescribed Fire” is a common and necessary land management tool used all over Florida to mimic what would happen in our natural Ask the Experts! areas if people weren’t here. • The two main reasons for burning are: 1) Public safety. Fire and rain are the two main influences on natural Florida. Without regular burning, vegetation in our parks and preserves grows so dense that a lightning strike fire would be catastrophic. Through effective prescribed burning, we keep vegetation at healthy levels so that wildfires are minimal, and our homes and neighborhoods are safe. 2) Ecological health. Historically, low intensity lightning fires burned regularly on the Florida landscape. Many native plants and animals depend on occasional fires. But with a growing population and built up communities, the regular occurrence of fire diminishes. Taking care of the plants and animals that make Florida special requires mimicking and supporting the natural forces that have long shaped this landscape. Sarasota County has 26 staff and volunteers who are professionally trained by the Florida Forest Service to manage prescribed fires and fight wildfires.

To read the rest of the article, visit scgov.net/parks (keywords prescribed fire). To submit your question for upcoming publications, please email [email protected].

SARASOTA COUNTY’S FIRE FEST! A fun opportunity for the Saturday, Jan. 27, 2018 whole family to learn how fire is used carefully and effectively 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. (rain or shine) on our natural lands, right here T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve in Sarasota County. 1800 Mabry Carlton Parkway, Venice • Prescribed burn demos. For more information 941-861-5000. • Helicopter water drops. • Games for kids. • Guided nature walks. • Free food and more!

38 For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. Dog-friendly Parks, Natural Areas and Trails Visit our dog-friendly areas, where dogs are welcome on a hand-held, maximum 6-foot leash.

Colonial Oaks Park Englewood Sports Complex Jelks Preserve Lakeview Park Legacy Trail Nathan Benderson Park Nokomis Community Park Phillippi Estate Park Potter Park Red Bug Slough Preserve Scherer Thaxton Preserve Shamrock Park Sleeping Turtles Preserve North Community Gardens in Parks Urfer Family Park Community gardens provide a place for individuals to grow and many more! vegetables, fruits and herbs. Gardeners can improve their families’ For a complete list, visit scgov.net health and nutrition while reducing food costs. For details, please (keywords dog park). contact UF/IFAS Extension at Twin Lakes Park or call 941-861-5000.

NATURAL AREAS GUIDE A GUIDE TO SARASOTA’S NATURAL AREAS The goal of this guide is to help you discover a variety of ways to experience our community’s natural areas, learn about our amazing environment and wildlife, and enjoy being active, outdoors. Sarasota County’s vision is to be the premier community where people choose to live, work and play. Our network of natural areas is extensive and contributes to this goal by providing many special places to get outside, escape everyday stresses, and enjoy all that these areas have to offer. The Natural Areas Guide highlights 23 sites that feature exceptional outdoor recreational opportunities. For information on more of Sarasota County’s parks, natural areas and trails, visit scgov.net/parks. Get out there, share your experiences with others and enjoy! To find a Natural Areas Guide, go to any Sarasota County Park or to view this publication online at scgov.net (keywords Parks/Natural Areas Guide).

Together we can ensure that our community’s investments in these lands are enjoyed by residents and visitors alike and YOU can help others get off the beaten path and discover Sarasota’s natural areas.

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. 39 NATURAL AREAS 40 Also features: decks, boardwalks Great withobservation Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, Sarasota Audubon Nature Center. REGIONAL STORMWATER FACILITY, 6893Palmer Blvd., Sarasota trekof acarpool into withstops theCarlton alongthe backcountry nature journey. For beginning birders consists thejourney to experts, experienced birder asheleadsyou Sample Charlie onabirding Calling allbirding enthusiasts! JoinSarasota County volunteer and lot/Saturday,the mainparking 7:15a.m.–12:15p.m. Jan. 13,Feb. 10,March 24/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free in /Meet Also features: exceptional withmore reserve wilderness andhorsebackriding. than100milesoftrails for backcountry biking hiking, T. MABRY CARLTON, Carlton Parkway, JR.MEMORIALRESERVE, 1800Mabry Venice CARLTON RESERVE BIRDING AT DIVERSITY THE CARLTON RESERVE CELERY FIELDS ACTIVITIES For more information andregistration, visitscgov.net/parks, orcall 941-861-5000. Nature Center Fields! at Celery Visit Audubon Sarasota GO BIRDING!

guided nature walks, andfree children food. activities will feature prescribed demonstrations, burn helicopter water drops, Florida’s natural ecosystems for present andfuture generations. Event from wildfires,our communities andproperty as well asmaintain Fire Fest 2018provides afirsthandlook at how prescribed protect burns Jan. 27/All ages/Fee: Free /10a.m.–2p.m. register, visitscgov.net/parks orcall941-861-5000. binoculars,bring fieldbird guideand your camera. For detailsand to mobility. Wear shoes, sturdy hat, walking sunscreen, bugspray and way to locate andidentify birds. for Perfect personswithlimited For details, call941-861-5000or [email protected]. unevenoften some ofwhichwillbeuphill. orgrassy rocky surfaces, prepared to walk approximately two milesalongmostlyunpaved and and more onaguidedwalk through thesite. Participants shouldbe what isthat mountain madeof?Learn theanswers to thesequestions Why isitcalled “Celery Fields?” Why Fields isCelery sopopular?And just 9:30 –11:30a.m. Wednesday, March 21, Thursday, April 19/Ages: 12andup/Free / Wednesday, Dec. 20, Thursday, Jan. 18, Tuesday, Feb. 20, FIREFEST 2018 EXPLORE CELERY FIELDS ACTIVITIES For more information andregistration, visitscgov.net/parks, orcall 941-861-5000. NATURAL AREAS

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E E L L A (!:) Share 1 v ij Following The Legacy Trail at Culverhouse Nature Park Nature at Culverhouse Trail The Legacy Like us on facebook.com/scgovParks to keep up keep to us on facebook.com/scgovParks Like and events park news, with the latest date to of all visitors and activities. residents See how 1ill Uked ages are enjoying Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Recreation Parks, Sarasota County enjoying ages are Resources! Natural For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. or call visit scgov.net/parks, information and registration, more For

ABOUT OUR PARKS? WHAT DO YOU THINK DO YOU WHAT

Your feedback is valuable to us! Please go to this link us! Please go to to is valuable feedback Your the take to http://tinyurl.com/PRNRcustomersurvey and let us know how interests your share to survey about five will only take survey This doing. we’re time! your appreciate greatly We complete. to minutes

ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES CULVERHOUSE NATURE PARK NATURE CULVERHOUSE

CULVERHOUSE NATURE PARK NATURE CULVERHOUSE SPRING WILDFLOWERS AT AT WILDFLOWERS SPRING to register, visit scgov.net/parks or call 941-861-5000. visit scgov.net/parks register, to Park come alive with color in the springtime. For more information and information more For in the springtime. color with alive come Park wildflowers. The pasture and depression marshes in Culverhouse Nature Nature Culverhouse marshes in and depression The pasture wildflowers. Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist Ray Vinson on a hunt for for on a hunt Vinson Ray Naturalist Parks County Join Sarasota April 18 /Ages: 12 and up / Fee: Free / Wednesday, 10 a.m. – noon Wednesday, / Free 12 and up / Fee: 18 /Ages: April

Also features: the largest community park in Sarasota County Parks and direct access to The Legacy Trail. Legacy The to and direct access Parks community park County in Sarasota the largest features: Also 7301 McIntosh Road, Sarasota Road, 7301 McIntosh For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. or call visit scgov.net/parks, information and registration, more For NATURAL AREAS Also features: area launchat Dog-friendly west andkayak entrance. 1500 Pinebrook Road, Venice (east entrance) •1075Albee Farm Road, Venice (west entrance) For details, call941-861-5000or [email protected]. rare speciesandhabitats whilebalancingtheneedsofpublic recreation. habitats, techniques to mitigate wildfire dangerand how staff protect Participants aboutmethodsused to willlearn managefire-dependent and someofthechallengesinvolved withmanaging thesesites. aresuburbs ourneighbors. Learn aboutspecialmanagement practices about creative andinnovative strategies landmanagers usewhenthe Join Sarasota County Environmental SpecialistJeff Weber to learn entrance trail at / thehiking Tuesday, 9–11a.m. Jan. 16, March 12/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free at /Meet east [email protected]. of “fall” color, Florida For style! details, call941-861-5000oremail in paradise, butifyou lookclosely, you’ll finda examples few select of fallcolor inmid-winter! Yes, theseasonsare alittledifferent here red maples, laurel oaks, wingedsumacsandotherspeciesat thepeak Weber onahikethrough pineandhardwood habitats insearch of some fallcolor. JoinSarasota County Environmental SpecialistJeff You to that might learn even besurprised Southwest Florida has trail / hiking Wednesday, 9–11a.m. Jan. 3/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free at /Meet eastentrance at the email [email protected]. the potential to seeinteresting wildlife. For details,or call941-861-5000 matter theseason, there isalways somethingbeautifulinbloomor non-native plants andresident wildlife inhabitingourpreserves. No Environmental SpecialistJeff Weber whowillidentify bothnative and Explore ofnatural avariety habitats withSarasota County entrance trail at / thehiking Thursday, 9–11a.m. Dec. 7,Jan. 24,Feb. 27/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free at /Meet east 42 MIDST OF WINTER MIDST LOOKING FOR FALL COLOR IN THE PLANT AND ANIMAL IDENTIFICATION WITHOUT THE USE OF FIRE MANAGING FIRE-DEPENDENT HABITATS CURRY CREEK PRESERVE ACTIVITIES For more information andregistration, visitscgov.net/parks, orcall 941-861-5000.

details, [email protected]. Educator, Sarasota County UF/IFAS andSustainability. Extension For Dr.life. Instructor: Clements, Ecology Katherine andNatural Resources been usedhistorically for food, ofdaily medicineandotheraspects Preserve andexplore how native wildplants ofSarasota County have for thousandsofyears. Take aleisurely Creek walk through Curry Ethnobotany isthestudyofhow peopleandplants have interacted entrance trail at / thehiking Tuesday, 9–11a.m. Jan. 31,April 9/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free at /Meet east preserve. For details, [email protected]. forthe trails, adelightful making andeducational trek through the summer wildflowers andmany otherinteresting plants grow along what’s Creek bloomingatPreserve. Curry Anumberofspring/early through pineflatwoods, scrubby flatwoods and oak hammocks tosee Join Sarasota County Environmental SpecialistJeff Weber onahike trail /Saturday,hiking 9–11a.m. March 24/Ages: 12andup /Fee: Free at /Meet eastentrance at the details, [email protected]. interesting wildlife andenjoy thenatural ofourpreserves. For beauty andthrive.plants andanimalsuseto survive Along theway, watch for relationships, interesting selfdefense mechanismsandothertactics unfavorable ways. We’ll explore someofnature’s mutuallybeneficial more abouthow animalsandplants interact, bothin favorable and Join Sarasota County Environmental SpecialistJeff Weber andlearn trail / hiking Wednesday, 9–11a.m. Feb. 14/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free at /Meet eastentrance at the PLANTS AND ANIMALS EXPLORING RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN FLORIDA’S FABULOUS PLANT HERITAGE SPRING WILDFLOWER WALK located at eastentrance. Note: listed Activities below are For more information andregistration, visitscgov.net/parks, orcall 941-861-5000. NATURAL AREAS

43 ACTIVITIES THE ROLE OF FIRE IN FLORIDA’S ECOSYSTEMS FLORIDA’S IN FIRE OF ROLE THE LEARN TO KNOW THE WILD THINGS BIRD ID CLASS ID BIRD THINGS WILD THE KNOW TO LEARN LUNCHTIME MUSIC SERIES SERIES MUSIC LUNCHTIME PARK THE AT POETRY For details, call 941-861-5000 or email [email protected]. details, For Jan. 26 / Ages: 12 and up / Fee: Free / Picnic shelter / Friday, 9 –11 a.m. / Friday, shelter / Picnic Free 12 and up / Fee: 26 / Ages: Jan. for a guided hikeWeber Specialist Jeff Environmental County Join Sarasota the history about in Learn of fire Week.” Awareness Fire “Prescribed during manage the burning to uses prescribed County Sarasota and how Florida and learn burned areas recently Explore parks and preserves. area natural to evolved fire-dependentabout how species have and wildlife habitats is burned. after an area they thrive and how with periodic fires coexist Feb. 1, 8,15, 22 / Adults / Fee: $20 donation / Classroom / Friday, / Friday, / Classroom $20 donation / Fee: 1, 8,15, 22 / Adults Feb. 10 a.m. – noon. activity outdoor in America. growing is the fastest watching Bird of the classes will be held indoors and the final class will be Three in the park. birds and identify Each participant locate to outdoors will Classes available). be may need a field guide and binoculars (loaners Class Society. Audubon Area Venice Charlie Sample, by will be taught contact Katie Reservations Balcerzak at required; is limited. are size 941-786-2738 or [email protected]. that inhabit Lemon Bay. Meet at the amphitheater. Preregistration is Preregistration Meet amphitheater. the at Bay. inhabit Lemon that 941-488-8998. at contact Chuck Idelberger required, / 2, 16, 30 / Adults 2, 16, March Fee: 5, 19, Feb. 29, Jan. FreeDec. / 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. / Friday Center Nature Featuring the bay. music by and folk bluegrass Bring a picnic and enjoy call 941-861-5000. information, more Gottfried Creek. For local favorites / Center Nature / Free Fee: / 7, 21 / Adults 24 and Feb. Jan.10, 10:30 a.m. 9 – Wednesday, an easy walk for Robert naturalist, Join poet and master Kinsley, and the poems nature enjoy to with stops Park, Bay Lemon around Each poetry it. about some insight by inspired will offer walk both in and out of the water. this special park and its wildlife, details and to For 12 adults. to Limited is required. Preregistration contact 941-999-3013 or [email protected]. Robert Kinsley, register, For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. or call visit scgov.net/parks, information and registration, more For

Prescribed Burn at Old Miakka Preserve Burn at OldPrescribed Miakka

ACTIVITIES LEMON BAY PARK BAY LEMON

OLD MIAKKA PRESERVE OLD LEMON BAY F.I.S.H. PROJECT F.I.S.H. LEMON BAY

WALK TALK AND WALK MANGROVES AND COASTAL LANDSCAPES: LANDSCAPES: COASTAL AND MANGROVES discussing some of the many interesting fishes and other animals interesting discussing some of the many search shallow waters and seagrass beds, observing, collecting beds, and and seagrass waters shallow search for marine life in Lemon Bay. Using hand and seine nets, you will will you hand and seine nets, Using Bay. in Lemon marine life for American Littoral Society biologist Chuck Idelberger on a search Society on a search Chuck Idelberger American Littoral biologist Calling all F.I.S.H. (Folks Interested in Submerged Habitats). Join Habitats). in Submerged Interested (Folks all F.I.S.H. Calling Fee: Free / Amphitheater / Second Saturday, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Saturday, / Second / Amphitheater Free Fee: information and to register, visit scgov.net/parks or call 941-861-5000. visit scgov.net/parks register, and to information ages / 12, June 9 / All 14, May 10, April 10, March 13, Feb. 9, Jan. Dec. identification, ecological significance and trimming regulations. For regulations. and trimming significance ecological identification, will learn how to identify the three mangroves in Florida, and discuss in Florida, mangroves the three identify to will learn how Bay Park for a discussion about our native mangrove ecosystems. You You ecosystems. mangrove a discussion about our native for Park Bay Join Sarasota County Environmental Specialist Alyssa Vinson at Lemon Lemon at Vinson Alyssa Specialist Environmental County Join Sarasota Dec. 8, Feb. 2 / All ages / Fee: Free / Classroom / Friday, 9 – 11 a.m. / Friday, / Classroom Free ages / Fee: 2 / All 8, Feb. Dec. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275). reservations) or contact (keyword 941-861-PARK scgov.net Visit Also features: nature trails and boardwalks overlooking the bay. This park offers indoor and outdoor reservable space/pavilions. reservable outdoor indoor and space/pavilions. park offers This overlooking the bay. and boardwalks trails nature features: Also 570 Bay Park Blvd., Englewood Blvd., Park 570 Bay

Also features: four miles of trails that provide wildlife viewing opportunities wildlife including gopher tortoises, butterflies provide that miles of trails and songbirds. four features: Also 251 Myakka Sarasota Road, For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. or call visit scgov.net/parks, information and registration, more For NATURAL AREAS 44 details, [email protected]. Creek ofthisinteresting asyou aboutthehistory area. learn For and cabbagepalmhammocks occasional glimpses ofShakett once stood onthissite. Along theway, enjoy thebeautiful live oak Dr. Fred at hotel thePollyanna known that Albee andtheluxury Inn Culture,Manasota theinteresting stories oflocalpioneers, including surrounding towns of Venice andNokomis. Learn aboutpeople ofthe Eaton anddiscover andthe theinteresting ofthepreserve history Sarasota buffand County volunteerJoin localhistory Nancy entrance picnictable/Friday, 9–11 a.m. Jan. 19, March 15/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free at /Meet east 941-861-5000 [email protected]. the potential to seeinteresting wildlife. For details, call matter theseason, there isalways somethingbeautifulinbloomor non-native plants andresident wildlife inhabitingourpreserves. No Environmental SpecialistJeff Weber whowillidentify bothnative and Explore ofnatural avariety habitats withSarasota County entrance picnictable/ Wednesday, 9–11a.m. Dec. 20,Feb. 17/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free at /Meet east details, [email protected]. ofthisinterestingthe shoreline aboutthehistory area. andlearn For palm hammocks, catch occasional glimpsesofwading birds along at Pocono Trail Preserve. Enjoy thebeautifullive oakandcabbage onaleisurely strollleads participants through theshadywoodlands Join Sarasota County Environmental SpecialistJeff Weber ashe atMeet eastentrance picnictable/Monday, 9–11a.m. Dec. 11,Jan. 8,Feb. 6,March 28/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free / Also features: platform, shadytrails. observation onShakettCreek, preserve waterfront 189 Pocono Trail, Nokomis THE HISTORY OF POCONO TRAIL PRESERVE FROM EARLY INHABITATS TO POLLYANNA: PLANT AND ANIMAL IDENTIFICATION THE PRESERVE STROLL THROUGHWOODLAND POCONOPRESERVE TRAIL ACTIVITIES For more information andregistration, visitscgov.net/parks, orcall 941-861-5000.

details, [email protected]. interesting wildlife andenjoy thenatural ofourpreserves. For beauty andthrive.plants andanimalsuseto survive Along theway, watch for relationships, interesting selfdefense mechanismsandothertactics unfavorable ways. We’ll explore someofnature’s mutuallybeneficial more abouthow animalsandplants interact, bothinfavorable and Join Sarasota County Environmental SpecialistJeff Weber andlearn table / Thursday, 9–11a.m. Feb. 1/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free at /Meet eastentrance picnic 941-861-5000 [email protected]. ofwading islands hometo birds. avariety rookery For details, call enjoy outover relaxing vistaslooking ShakettCreek andnearby trails beneath beautifullive oaksandcabbagepalms. Along theway, Environmental SpecialistJeff Weber and explore shady woodland is aslice ofparadise you’ll finddelightful.Sarasota Join County beautiful mountain vistas, but Sarasota County’s Pocono Trail Preserve Visitors won’t seealandscapeabloomintulipsordaffodils, or picnic table/ Tuesday, 9–11a.m. April 10 /Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free at /Meet eastentrance email [email protected]. accompanied by anadult. For details, call941-861-5000or Please besure spray. to aflashlight bring andinsect Minors mustbe surrounding thefullmoonandotherinteresting lunar phenomena. eveningearly aboutinteresting critters andlearn legendsandtales Looknatural areas andlisten dark. for after thesights andsoundsof hiketospecial twilight experience themystery andintrigue ofour Join Sarasota County Environmental SpecialistJeff Weber ona picnic table/Friday, 7–8:30p.m. March 2/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free at /Meet eastentrance FULL MOON WALKFULL AND ANIMALS EXPLORING RELATIONSHIPS PLANTS BETWEEN SPRING IN THE POCONOS…JUST KIDDING! Full Walk Moon For more information andregistration, visitscgov.net/parks, orcall 941-861-5000. NATURAL AREAS 45 PLANT AND ANIMAL IDENTIFICATION WALK IDENTIFICATION ANIMAL AND PLANT MANAGING FIRE-DEPENDENT HABITATS HABITATS FIRE-DEPENDENT MANAGING FIRE OF USE THE WITHOUT PRESERVE THE AT POOCHES Feb. 22 / Ages: 12 and up / Fee: Free / Meet at information kiosk / information / Meet at Free 12 and up / Fee: 22 / Ages: Feb. 9 – 11 a.m. Thursday, manager Jeff pooch and join Red Bug Slough Preserve your up Leash the through walk dog-friendly nature a fun and informative for Weber companion four-legged your with the shaded trails Enjoy preserve. owner areas, in natural dog safety and learn about dog etiquette, For information. “pooch-tacular” and so much more responsibilities dogs per person. two participants to limited are manageability, better (optional). and dog treats bags bring pet waste to be sure Please during all times Remember the walk. all dogs must be on leash at For email [email protected]. call 941-861-5000 or details, information / Meet at Free 12 and up / Fee: 20 / Ages: March 9 – 11 a.m. Tuesday, kiosk / County with Sarasota habitats a variety of natural Explore and native both Weber who will identify Specialist Jeff Environmental No our preserves. inhabiting wildlife and resident plants non-native or something beautiful in bloom is always the season, there matter call 941-861-5000 details, For wildlife. see interesting to the potential or email [email protected]. Feb. 9, April 2 / Ages: 12 and up / Fee: Free / Meet at information information / Meet at Free 12 and up / Fee: 2 / Ages: 9, April Feb. 9 – 11 a.m. kiosk / Friday, to learn Weber Specialist Jeff Environmental County Join Sarasota when land managers use strategies and innovative about creative about special management Learn our neighbors. the suburbs are these with managing practices and some of the challenges involved fire-dependent manage Hear about methods used to sites. habitats, protect rare staff danger and how wildfire mitigate to techniques of public recreation. while balancing the needs species and habitats or email [email protected]. call 941-861-5000 details, For

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. or call visit scgov.net/parks, information and registration, more For

ACTIVITIES

RED BUG SLOUGH PRESERVE SLOUGH BUG RED RED BUG SLOUGH PRESERVE SLOUGH BUG RED

MEDITATION SURROUNDED BY NATURE AT AT NATURE BY SURROUNDED MEDITATION FULL FULL WALK MOON [email protected]. assisted by Noreen Delaney. For details, call 941-861-5000 or email or email call 941-861-5000 details, For Delaney. Noreen by assisted Educator, Sarasota County UF/IFAS Extension and Sustainability, Extension and Sustainability, UF/IFAS County Sarasota Educator, Instructor: Dr. Katherine Clements, Ecology and Natural Resources Resources and Natural Katherine Ecology Clements, Instructor: Dr. 15-105. Be aware that there is limited parking is limited there this location. that at 15-105. Be aware sit upon as we will stop to sit along the trail. Appropriate for ages ages for Appropriate sit along the trail. to will stop sit upon as we loose clothing and bring water and a portable loose clothing and bring water chair or blanket to No prior experience needed. Recommended to wear comfortable, comfortable, wear to Recommended needed. No prior experience ourselves and nature and get healthier along the way! and nature ourselves and cultures for a nondenominational approach to connecting to with approach a nondenominational for and cultures of finding peace within nature. We will draw upon many traditions upon many We will draw within nature. of finding peace may decrease our risk for developing disease. Join us for an exploration an exploration Join us for disease. developing our risk for decrease may ability, improves self-esteem, benefits that system and has immune improves ability, (relaxed awareness), improves concentration and problem-solving concentration improves awareness), (relaxed Research also indicates being in nature increases brain alpha waves alpha waves brain increases being in nature also indicates Research decreases sympathetic nerve sympathetic decreases activity response). or flight (our fight which is a stress hormone, lowers pulse rate and blood pressure, and and blood pressure, pulse rate lowers hormone, which is a stress of “forest bathing” practiced in Japan) decreases levels of cortisol, levels practiced in Japan) decreases bathing” “forest of spirit. Recent scientific research has shown that Shinrin yoku (a formyoku (a Shinrin that has shown research scientific spirit. Recent reflection or breathwork to quiet the mind and center the body andcenter to quiet the mind and reflection or breathwork Many traditions use some form of meditation, focus, contemplation, contemplation, focus, of meditation, use some form traditions Many [email protected]. [email protected]. 9 – 10 a.m. Thursday, kiosk / information be accompanied by an adult. For details, call 941-861-5000 or email details, For an adult. by be accompanied / Meet at Free up / Fee: 12 and 1 / Ages: 7, May 11, March Jan. Please be sure to bring a flashlight and insect spray. Minors must and insect bring a flashlight to spray. be sure Please surrounding the full moon and other interesting lunar phenomena. the full moon and other interesting surrounding early evening critters and learn about interesting legends and tales legends and and learn critters about interesting early evening natural areas after dark. Look and listen for the sights and sounds of the sights after for dark. and listen areas natural Look special twilight hike to experience the mystery and intrigue of our and intrigue the mystery experience special twilightto hike Join Sarasota County Environmental Specialist Jeff Weber on a Jeff Specialist Environmental County Join Sarasota Sunday, 6 – 7:30 p.m. 6 – 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3 / Ages: 12 and up / Fee: Free / Meet at information kiosk / kiosk / information / Meet at Free 12 and up / Fee: 3 / Ages: Dec.

Also features: Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, shady trails, butterfly shady trails, garden. Trail, Wildlife and Birding Florida Great features: Also 5200 Beneva Road, Sarasota Road, 5200 Beneva For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. or call visit scgov.net/parks, information and registration, more For NATURAL AREAS 46 details, [email protected]. at thepavilion andbeprepared to walk approximately 2.75miles. For county to thehabitat. protect and preserve Participants shouldmeet animals that live at andthe techniques thepark employed by the make thissite unique. Discussthe native andnon-native plants and ofthesite andtheinterestingabout thehistory blendofusesthat paved andmostlyshadedtrails through Park. Rothenbach Learn Late isa beautiful timeto spring takealeisurely guided walk along 9:30 –11:30a.m. June 6/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free /Pavilion / Wednesday, Also features: space/pavilions. fitnessequipment (outdoor), reservable Visit scgov.net 941-861-PARK (keyword or contact reservations) (7275). After thissite 2018. was closedfor willbeopenfor Irma, management. Hurricane debris ourvistors It inJanuary Road, Ridge Sarasota 8650 Bee ROTHENBACH PARK TRASH TO TREASURE:WELCOME TO ROTHENBACH PARK SPECIAL EVENT For more information andregistration, visitscgov.net/parks, orcall 941-861-5000. the parks. exercise stations alongthetrails orwithin The following parks have aseriesofoutdoor OUTDOOR EXERCISE EQUIPMENT Urfer FamilyUrfer Park Rothenbach Park Pinebrook Park Nokomis Community Park Laurel Park Fruitville Park Englewood Recreation Center Park Caspersen Beach For more information andregistration, visitscgov.net/parks, orcall 941-861-5000. NATURAL AREAS 47

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E E L L A THE CUNNING COYOTE: FRIEND OR FOE? OR FRIEND COYOTE: CUNNING THE THE INVASIVES! SPOT FLORIDA’S FABULOUS PLANT HERITAGE PLANT FABULOUS FLORIDA’S MYSTERIES & MYTHS MIGRATION: March 14 / Ages: 12 and up / Fee: Free / Classroom / Thursday, Thursday, / / Classroom Free 12 and up / Fee: 14 / Ages: March 2:30 – 4 p.m. human-coyote and wild areas, agricultural into expand urban areas As and Katherine Ecology Clements, Join Dr. increasing. are encounters Extension, County Sarasota UF/IFAS from Educator Resources Natural human- minimize to how learn animals, about these amazing apex to coexistence role in peaceful a you can play conflict and how coyote areas. in our natural with coyotes and short / Classroom walk, Free 12 and up / Fee: 24 / Ages: April 2 – 4 p.m. Tuesday, permitting / weather to a major threat and animals are plants invasive Non-native property affect negatively values, They and ecosystems. biodiversity costs are U.S. The annual recreation. fisheries and agriculture, how species, invasive identify to how $120 billion! Learn at estimated property be a responsible with Dr. to owner and how they got here from Educator Resources and Natural Katherine Ecology Clements, Extension. County Sarasota UF/IFAS Jan. 17 / Ages: 12 and up / Fee: Free / Classroom and trails / trails and / Classroom Free 12 and up / Fee: 17 / Ages: Jan. 2 – 4 p.m. Wednesday, Join Dr. interact. people and plants is the study of how Ethnobotany UF/IFAS County Sarasota Katherine an ethnobotanist at Clements, played. history have plants and the role Extension, discuss Florida’s to identify permitting) to (weather walk this with a leisurely Follow medicine and other food, for used historically plants wild native aspects life. of daily 7 – 8 p.m. Wednesday, / / Classroom Free ages / Fee: 8 / All March Naturalist Master do species migrate? why And is migration? What multigenerational butterfly’s Kate will discuss the monarch Borduas exactto an spot they’ve been way find their eels that never route, Florida round trip miles! of 25,000 fly an annual that and terns before, and to information more For will be also highlighted. migrations bird or call 941-861-5000. visit scgov.net/parks register, For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. or call visit scgov.net/parks, information and registration, more For

EVENTS

ACTIVITIES SHAMROCK PARK SHAMROCK

NATURE CENTER OPEN HOUSE AND TOUR AND HOUSE OPEN CENTER NATURE GROWING UP WILD FOR YOUNG NATURALISTS YOUNG FOR WILD UP GROWING

SEASONS AND SERENDIPITY STROLL AND SEASONS DEMONSTRATION TOUR GARDEN DEMONSTRATION books for little naturalists! books for a family-friendly event. The Kids Corner always has puppets, toys and toys has puppets, Kids always The Corner event. a family-friendly specimens, Florida fossils, a ‘Touch Table’ and sea shell displays. This is This and sea shell displays. Table’ ‘Touch a fossils, Florida specimens, Exhibits include real wildlife taxidermies, Calusa artifacts, Calusa taxidermies, reptile wildlife Exhibits include real by staff and volunteers for a VIP tour and behind-the-scenes VIP look. for a volunteers staff and by What’s inside the Nature Center? Come to an open house hosted an open house hosted to Come Center? inside the Nature What’s registration needed / Nature Center / Thursday, 5 – 7 p.m. Thursday, / Center / Nature needed registration Dec. 21 - Celebrating the Winter Solstice / All ages / Fee: Free – no Free ages / Fee: / All Solstice Winter the 21 - Celebrating Dec. adult guardian must accompany children. must accompany adult guardian wild Florida! No registration necessary. Families welcome. Parent or Parent welcome. Families necessary. No registration wild Florida! activities, exhibits and outdoor exploration. Young naturalists will love will love naturalists Young exploration. and outdoor activities, exhibits facilitator Janie Ewell to explore Florida wildlife through engaging engaging through wildlife Florida explore to Janie Ewell facilitator wildlife at a young age while being close to nature. Join ‘Project Wild’ Wild’ ‘Project Join nature. age while being close to a young at wildlife Growing up wild means developing an appreciation for Florida’s Florida’s for an appreciation up wild means developing Growing 10 – 11:30 a.m. register, visit scgov.net/parks or call 941-861-5000. visit scgov.net/parks register, / Saturday, Center / Nature Free 6-12 / Fee: 9 / Ages: Dec. burrows, Florida scrub jays and more. For more information and to and to information more For and more. scrub jays Florida burrows, naturalists to stroll the trails discovering tracks, new blossoms, new blossoms, tracks, discovering the trails stroll to naturalists Florida does have seasons — and not just for hurricanes. Join master Join master hurricanes. for seasons — and not just does have Florida and up / Fee: Free / Nature Walk / Second Friday, 8 – 10 a.m. Friday, / Second Walk / Nature Free and up / Fee: information, call 941-861-5000. information, 12 11, June 8 / Ages: 13, May 9, April 9, March 12, Feb. 8, Jan. Dec. on Florida-friendly landscaping. No registration necessary. For For necessary. No registration landscaping. on Florida-friendly Park to answer questions, provide free tours and expert and tours free advice provide questions, answer to Park Master Gardeners will be in the Demonstration Garden at Shamrock Shamrock at Garden will be in the Demonstration Master Gardeners up / Fee: Free / Demonstration Garden / First Thursday, 9 a.m. Thursday, / First Garden / Demonstration Free up / Fee: Dec. 7, Jan. 4, Feb. 1, March 1, April 5, May 3, June 7 / Ages: 18 and 3, June 7 / Ages: 5, May 1, April 1, March 4, Feb. 7, Jan. Dec. indoor and outdoor reservable space. Visit scgov.net (keyword reservations) or contact 941-861-PARK (7275). reservations) or contact (keyword 941-861-PARK scgov.net Visit reservableindoor and outdoor space. Also features: 2.3-mile paved multi-use trail for wildlife viewing, hiking and biking located on the Intracoastal Waterway. This park offers park offers This Waterway. hiking viewing, and biking on the Intracoastal wildlife located for multi-use trail 2.3-mile paved features: Also 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice Drive, 3900 Shamrock For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. or call visit scgov.net/parks, information and registration, more For NATURAL AREAS 48 50-PLUS guardian. Space islimited. For details, call941-861-5000. on for Children storytime. mustbeaccompanied by aparent oradult play aswell finger plays asstorytime, orsongs. ablanket Bring to sit This andgroup program activities includesanature hands-on walk, yourBring toddler withnature to connect infunand creative ways. Dec. 3/Ages: 2–4/Fee: Free /Pavilion /Sunday, 10-11a.m. 941-861-5000. you through thehouseandto answer your questions. For details, call ofSarasota County.aspects Volunteer docents are onsite to guide to aboutthehouse, learn the Wilson familyandotherhistorical Take tour through aself-guided thehistoric Dr. C.B. Wilson House 10 a.m.–2p.m. /June, Saturday,11 a.m.–1p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday andFriday, 11 a.m.–1p.m.; Saturday, December –May /All ages/Fee: Free /C.B. Wilson House/ 941-861-5000. is agentle workout and notfor advanced fitnessbuffs. Fordetails, call gentle exercise andcompanionship inabeautifulnatural setting. This people? Increase your senseofwell-being oflife andquality through to getalittlefresh airandmeetnew forLooking anopportunity 8:30 –9:30a.m. Year-round /Ages: Adults /Fee: Free /Pavilion /Friday, offerspark space/pavilions. outdoor reservable Visit scgov.net 941-861-PARK (keyword or contact reservations) (7275). Also features: fitnessequipment (outdoor), paved fitness trail, nature trail, boardwalk wetlands, overlooking historical Dr. C.B. WilsonHouse. This 4012 Honore Ave., Sarasota EXPLORENATURE WITH YOURTODDLER OPEN HOUSES HISTORY IN THE PARK: DR. C.B. WILSON HOUSE FITNESS IN THE PARK: FIT AS A FIDDLE FOR URFER FAMILY PARK SPECIAL EVENTS ACTIVITIES For more information andregistration, visitscgov.net/parks, orcall 941-861-5000.

agricultural history. For details, call941-861-5000. andinterestingwhile discussingthisrich historical facet ofFlorida’s into a$500million industry. Take aleisurely stroll around thepark de Leon in1530?Learn how thismeagerbeginning hasgrown Did you that thefirstcattle in know Florida by were imported Ponce 9:30 –11a.m. March 15/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free /Pavilion / Thursday, botany. For details, call941-861-5000. of trails theirboundlessknowledge meandering whilesharing few flowers buttheshiny lyonia shouldbeinbloom.Enjoy the magical stroll park to celebrate theholidays. Winter out brings Join popularvolunteer guides Denny Girard andAl Squires for a 9 –11a.m. Dec. 27/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free /Grounds / Wednesday, details, call941-861-5000. about howcan alsolearn to compose andplanfor better photos. For and interesting thingsthat you into can turn beautiful photos. You there inthesmallstuff. ismuchbeauty howLearn to look for small There are nogiraffes ormanatees at Urfer, butif you lookcarefully, 8:30 –10a.m. May 26/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free /Pavilion /Saturday, can help. For details, call941-861-5000. plant species, how andwhy thesespeciesare managed, andhow you the trails to how learn to identify someofthemostcommon invasive because it’s green doesn’t meanit’s good. Take aguidedwalk along Almost anything grows inFlorida’s temperate climate butjust 9 –10:30a.m. May 17/Ages: 12andup/Fee: Free /Pavilion / Thursday, prepared to seelive snakes!For details, call941-861-5000. species andhow to live withsnakesinyour homelandscape. Be Grab aseat intheshadeofpavilion to aboutFlorida’s learn snake that benefitotherspeciesandeven thehumanpopulation. services revulsion. thenatural valuable environmental world, In snakesperform Snakes have offascination, fear longbeentheobjects and even April 21/Ages: 6andup/Fee:10:30 a.m. Free /Pavilion /Saturday,– 9:30 TO FLORIDA CRACKERS CATTLE IN FLORIDA: FROM SPANISH IMPORTS DENNY AND AL URFER FAMILY PARK HOLIDAY WALK WITH SMALL STUFF PHOTO SAFARI: LEARNING TO SEE THE INVASIVE SPECIES PLANTS IN THE WRONG PLACE: FLORIDA’S SLITHER AND HISS: SNAKES OF FLORIDA

For more information andregistration, visitscgov.net/parks, orcall 941-861-5000. NATURAL AREAS 49

Siesta Beach Shelter Lemon Bay Park Pavilion Bay Park Lemon Phillippi Estate Park Gazebo Park Estate Phillippi SAY ‘I DO’ AGAIN DO’ ‘I SAY VENICE BEACH AT BEACH SIESTA AND Celebrate a renewal of wedding vows vows of wedding a renewal Celebrate Beach Venice sunset on beautiful at 14. Event and Siesta Beach on Feb. certificate, includes commemorative light music on the beach and gift, flower, 4:30 at begins Check-in refreshments. and the , activities 5 p.m. at begin p.m. servicenondenominational 6 at begins Monday, by Register $10 per couple. p.m. call 941-861-5000. details, 11. For Feb.

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. or call visit scgov.net/parks, information and registration, more For at Sarasota at County Parks County Rental facilities Rental GULF COAST COAST GULF LIFE FOR GAMES FEB. 10-16 UP AND 50 AGES FOR Olympic-style competitions are offered in offered Olympic-style are competitions a variety Registration of sporting events. and Jan. 26. Days deadline is Friday, For $12 + $3 per event. times vary, view the brochure details, competition or call scgov.net/parks online at 941-861-5000. With rental spaces both inside and out, we we both inside and out, spaces rental With everything a small from can accommodate a sports partyprivate a business expo, to reception. or a wedding tournament reservations at facilities and request View or call 941-861-5000. scgov.net/parks,

Basketball Court Basketball Venice Community Center Community Venice Nokomis Community Park Park Community Nokomis

Twin Lakes Park Baseball Field Park Lakes Twin

THE BEACH AT AT BEACH THE BEACH NOKOMIS AGES ALL FOR EVENT FREE A BAREFOOT ON BAREFOOT Join us on the second Saturday of Saturday Join us on the second from and March February January, a beautiful beach Enjoy 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. handmade arts music, and atmosphere, and fun programs refreshments crafts, on the Beach will take kids. Barefoot for Nokomis Key Road, 100 Casey at place (just Road the Albee Bridge). For over a vendor receive or to information more call 941-861-5000. application,

For more information and registration, visit scgov.net/parks, or call 941-861-5000. or call visit scgov.net/parks, information and registration, more For VENICE COMMUNITY CENTER 2018 season show schedule Indulge in excellent entertainment as national touring groups come to Venice. To purchase tickets, go online to allengang.com.

GET READY – A MOTOWN EXPERIENCE Saturday, Jan. 20 Ages: Adults Tickets: $20+ Ballroom The Motown era brought soul, style and 7:30 p.m. show QUEEN NATION – sophistication to a new level in American music. The world was mesmerized by the smooth harmonies and effortless A QUEEN TRIBUTE choreography of groups like The Temptations, The Four Tops, and Gladys Knight & the Pips. Our hearts were moved by the soul-stirring melodies of Thursday, March 1 virtuoso vocalists like Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin. You might think Ages: Adult that kind of performance is a thing of the past, but you’d be wrong. We’re Tickets: $20+ bringing it all back with Get Ready — A Motown Experience. Ballroom 7:30 p.m. show SAVANNAH JACK Queen Nation, a tribute to Queen, was formed in 2004. Queen Nation’s live 90-minute production of Queen’s greatest hits preserves the Friday, Jan. 26 image, sound and stage persona of vintage Queen. Audiences are Ages: Adults amazed at the accuracy of Queen Nation’s live retrospective journey Tickets: $20+ through such Queen songs, such as “We Will Rock You,” “Bohemian Ballroom Rhapsody,” “We Are The Champions,” “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” 7:30 p.m. show “You’re My Best Friend,” “Another One Bites The Dust,” “Under Pressure” and many more. They have performed in front of thousands of people Savannah Jack has a dynamic stage show that infuses world-class at casinos, fairs, festivals and private affairs. vocals with a high level of energy and showmanship, resulting in an unforgettable musical experience. It is obvious that the band loves making music and is having a blast, whether they are performing in a RUS ANDERSON – small venue in Nashville or playing in front of thousands of people in THE ROCKET MAN sold out amphitheaters across the country. Savannah Jack brings a highly entertaining and energetic show to the stage, commanding standing (ELTON JOHN ovations night after night at virtually every venue where they perform. TRIBUTE) ORLANDO TRANSIT Saturday, April 7 Ages: Adult AUTHORITY – A The Rocket Man Show is the No. 1 U.S. Tickets: $20+ full-time ‘70s and ‘80s Elton John tribute. Ballroom CHICAGO TRIBUTE Our show is an exact reenactment of an 7:30 p.m. show Saturday, Feb. 24 early Elton John concert, featuring exact Ages: Adults replica costumes, 100-percent live instruments, faster tempos and Tickets: $20+ various flashy grand pianos. It is an intense, sincere and magical Ballroom musical journey with no cheese and no cheap party store disco shirts! Chicago is a rock-infused, horn-driven 7:30 p.m. show Audiences laugh, cry, sing and dance while having a blast of energy musical powerhouse that has inspired recalling the highs and lows of Elton’s career. There are ballads and generations of professional musicians over the last 40 years. Some of the driving rock songs. It is a trip down the yellow brick road. very best of those musicians found their way to central Florida and came together to form Orlando Transit Authority. OTA is a high-energy Chicago tribute show made up of A-list players who are, first and foremost, Chicago fans. The vocal harmonies are right. The solos are right. The guitar sounds are right. Everything is right. Close your eyes and you just might forget For details, call 941-861-1380 a who you’re listening to. or visit scgov.net/vcc. Sarasota County