September 2004

2 - Second Chance Last Opportunity Annual luncheon and silent auction. For more information, (941) 360-8660.

11 - Mana-Sota Lighthouse for the Blind Dr. James Morrish Sr. Memorial Golf Challenge, El Conquistador Country Club, $150 per player. For more information, (941) 359-1404.

13 - Florida Restaurant Association (FRA), Sarasota Chapter Taste of Sarasota Chef's Competition. Local chefs create their signature dishes. Event benefits local children's charities and affordable housing programs. Hyatt, Sarasota, $50/person, $75/couple. For more information, (941)360-7777.

17 - SOULSPEAK/Sarasota Poetry Theatre SOULQUEST, 535 Columbia Court, free. For more information, (941) 366-6468.

18 - Junior Achievement Bowl-A-Thon. Bowling tournament, Sarasota Lanes, donations only. For more information, (941) 749-5301.

18 - Lutheran Services Florida Sunset Silent Auction. The Chelsea Center, $30 in advance, $35 at the door. For more information, (941) 358-6330.

24-26 - The Great Outdoors Conservancy Oktoberfest Suncoast. Bavarian folk festival, Manatee Fairgrounds, $6/adult. For more information, (941) 708-3456.

25 - Cardinal Mooney High School Fall Golf tournament. Laurel Oak Golf and Country Club. For more information, (941) 379-2647, Vicki Wagner.

Other events happening in September:

Family Network on Disabilities of Manatee/Sarasota, Inc. Christmas wreath sales. Fresh live Wisconsin Christmas wreaths, August-September 2004. Call (941) 358-0275 to place order.

October 2004

1 - Hispanic Center at The Diocese of Venice Noche de Celebracion. Silent auction, dinner and dancing. Special Latino musical presentation, Michael's On East, $100/person. For more information, (941) 377-5965.

1 thru 3 - The Great Outdoors Conservancy Oktoberfest Suncoast in Sarasota County. Bavarian folk festival, Sarasota Fairgrounds, $6/adult, 12 and under free. For more information (941) 708-3456.

2 - Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Florida Suncoast Affiliate Race for the Cure. Nationally sanctioned 5K race that draws participants from all over the region, Straub Park, St.Petersburg, Fla., $20/person prior to September, $25 after Sept. 1. For more information (941) 360-8668.

4 - Sarasota Infant Home, Inc. Sarasota Panhellenic Alumni Baby shower. For more information (941) 266-1520.

6 - United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota-Manatee, Inc. Someone's in the Kitchen with Tommy and Phil. Interactive dinner with Tommy Klauber and Phil Mancini, Michael's On East. For more information (941) 957-3599.

7 - N.A.A.C.P. Sarasota County Branch Freedom Awards Banquet. Annual recognition of citizens in various areas for their outstanding contributions, Hyatt Sarasota, $75/person. For more information (941) 355-2097.

8 - Gifts From God of Sarasota, Inc. "Hope for the Hurting". Dinner gala, Michael's On East, free of charge; love offering will be taken. For information (941) 485-4707.

8 - The Smith Center for Therapeutic Riding Casino Night. Cocktails, dinner, silent and live auction, The Chelsea Center, $50/person. For information (941) 412-9333.

9 - Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Black & White Ball "Unmasked". Black-tie gala, Michael's On East, $200/person. For information (941) 379-8992.

15 - Sarasota K-9 Search and Rescue First Annual Dinner Fundraiser. Silent auction and keynote speakers, including Congresswoman Katherine Harris and television host John Walsh, Serendipity Golf Club, $150/person. For information (941) 412-3754.

16 - The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art UnGala Gala. Black-tie gala event, Ringling Museum, $225/person. For information (941) 359-5733.

16 - Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Florida Suncoast Affiliate Circle of Hope. Day of shopping, St. Armands Circle. For information (941) 360-8668.

21 - SOULSPEAK/Sarasota Poetry Theatre SOULQUEST. Informal sessions for people who wish to learn more about SOULSPEAK poetry or who wish to find a more spiritual way to express themselves, 535 Columbia Court. For information (941) 366-6468.

21 - The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art Third Thursday at Cá d'Zan. Drinks and sunset on the grounds of Cá d'Zan. For information (941) 359-5733.

22 - Junior Achievement Dooley Mack Golf Tournament, University Park, $500/foursome. For information (941) 921-4636.

22 - Backlot Arts, Inc. (The Backlot) Backlot Brawl. Exclusive, first-class championship boxing event, Municipal Auditorium, $1,000/person. For information (941) 400-8401.

23 - Manasota Solve, Inc. Golf Tournament. Golf tournament including BBQ buffet, raffle and silent auction at dinner, Misty Creek County Club, $100/person. For information (941) 748-0094.

23 - Community AIDS Network C.A.N. Dance. Ballroom championship dancing event, Michael's On East, $125/person. For information (941) 925-9060.

24 - Cystic Fibrosis Foundation 4th Annual Cystic Fibrosis Celebrity Golf Classic, Laurel Oak Country Club, $150/person. For information (941) 952-5836.

24 - Sarasota Opera Curtain Raiser Don Giovanni. Toast the opera's 46th season before performance of Don Giovanni, Michael's On East, $150/person. For information (941) 366-8450, ext. 246.

24 - Florida Restaurant Association (FRA), Sarasota Chapter 20th Annual "Taste of Sarasota". Benefit for All Faiths Food Bank showcasing restaurants from around the city presenting samples of their cuisine, downtown Sarasota, $5/adults, children 14 and under, free. For information (941) 355-1447.

28 - The Hospital Foundation Fashion Show. Fashion show to raise funds for student healthcare scholarship awards, Plantation Golf & Country Club, $35/person. For information (941) 483-7557.

30 - Mote Marine Laboratory Oceanic Evening. Annual black-tie gala with proceeds benefitting Mote's research centers, Mote Aquarium Courtyard, $200/person. For information (941) 388-4441, ext. 305.

Other events happening in October:

Camp Florida Fish Tales Annual golf tournament. For information (941) 921-9182.

Family Network on Disabilities of Manatee/Sarasota, Inc. Hunsader Farms pumpkin festival. Children's area game booths and prizes, Hunsader Farms, call for admission price. For information (941) 378-2295.

Pelican Man's Bird Sanctuary Wildlife Safari-fest. Continuous programs concerning wildlife and the environment, with a kids fun area, safari food and drink, boat rides, animals, artists, authors and photographs, Pelican Man's Bird Sanctuary, $10 adults, $5 children 4-17. For information (941) 388-4444.

Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (USA) Angel Fund. Annual mailing to those who have helped or expressed interest in doing so. For information (941) 312-0400.

November 2004

1 - Designing Women Boutique Calendar Girls Cabaret. Elaborate fashion show cabaret, boutique and luncheon, Asolo Theatre, $50-$100/person. For information (941) 366-5293.

4 - Ear Research Foundation Hear and Now Fundraiser. Dinner, live music, silent auction and world-renowned jazz musicians, $150/person. For information (941) 365-0367.

5 - Sarasota Reading Festival "A Novel Affair". Author reception where guests mingle with accclaimed authors. Lavish hors d'ouevres and open bar, Selby Public Library, $50 to $200/person. For information (941) 906-1733.

6 - South Florida Museum Snooty Gala. Elegant black-tie dinner to support Snooty the manatee and the museum's educational programs, South Florida Museum, $150/person. For information (941) 746-4131, ext. 14.

6 - Sarasota Reading Festival Street festival, Five Points Park, free. For information (941) 906-1733.

6 - Manasota Solve, Inc. Classic Car Show, Gamble Mansion. For information (941) 748-0094.

7 - Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation Super Sunday Community Phone-a-thon. For information (941) 371-4546.

7 - University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee Brunch on the Bay. Brunch held on the bayfront on campus to recognize companies and individuals who have contributed as sponsors to support local scholarships, College Hall, USF Sarasota/Manatee Campus, $1,500-$25,500/sponsor; $700/table, $75/person. For information (941) 359-4694.

11 - Westcoast Center for Human Development Founder's Fund-raising Luncheon, $42/person. For information (941) 365-7543.

12 - Make a Wish Foundation of Sarasota Tampa Bay "Night of the Iguana". Dinner, dancing, casino and auctions, Terminal II, Tampa, $125/person. For information (813) 288-2600.

13 - Senior Friendship Centers Fall Festival. Daylong community fair highlighting services for seniors in Sarasota County, Senior Friendship Center, free. For information (941) 556-3213.

13 - Sarasota Season of Sculpture Bayfront Opening. A grand opening attended by many of the exhibiting artists, exhibit runs through May 31, 2006, Downtown Bayfront. For information (941) 331-2008.

13 - The Out-Of-Door Academy Extravaganza. A themed dinner gala featuring a live and silent auction, Laurel Oak Country Club, $175/person. For information (941) 349-3223.

13 - Operation Serving Children Annual golf tournament, Serenoa Golf Club, $100/person. For information (941) 379-9755.

13 - Florida West Coast Symphony, Inc. Opening Night Gala. Elegant dinner celebrating the opening night of the symphony's 56th Masterworks season, Van Wezel Grand Foyer. For information (941) 953-4252.

13 - Laurel Civic Association, Inc. Cool Caribbean Nights. Silent auction, dinner, dance, Sandra Sims Terry Community Center, $75/person. For information (941) 483-3338.

13 - Humane Society of Sarasota County, Inc. Hot Dogs and Cool Cats. Roaring '20s-themed gala featuring live and silent auctions, raffles, live entertainment, food, dancing and fun for all, $150/person. For information (941) 955-4131.

14 - All Faiths Food Bank Empty Bowls. Thanksgiving Day-related program, Phillippi Creek Mansion. For information (941) 379-6333, Aundria Shooks.

17 - The Wellness Community-Southwest Florida Goldman Keystone Awards Dinner. For information (941) 921-5539 Jay Lockaby.

18 - SOULSPEAK/Sarasota Poetry Theatre SOULQUEST. Informal sessions for people who wish to learn more about SOULSPEAK poetry or who wish to find a more spiritual way to express themselves, 535 Columbia Court. For information (941) 366-6468.

18 - The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art Third Thursday at Cá d'Zan. For information (941) 359-5733.

21 - Healthy Start Coalition of Sarasota County, Inc. Baby Steps Sunset Beach Walk. Beach walk to raise funds for emergency transportation for Healthy Start clients to access medical care and other services, Siesta Beach. For information (941) 373-7070.

28 - Westcoast Center for Human Development Annual Anniversary Concert, $18-$125/person. For information (941) 365-7543.

30 - Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida, Inc. High Tea-Luncheon and fashion show, Philllippi Estate, $45/person. For information (941) 365-3913.

30 - Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida, Inc. Safe Sex and the City. Dinner, entertainment and dancing, $50/person. For information (941) 365-3913.

Other events happening in November:

Literacy Council of Sarasota, Inc. Spell-a-Bration. Adult spelling bee where executives compete, team sponsors. For information (941) 955-0421, Amanda Harvey.

Manasota Solve, Inc. Poinsettia sales. For information (941) 748-0094.

Sarasota Film Society Cine-World Film Festival. Festival screening of more than 50 feature films from around the world, Burns Court Cinema, $5 members; $7.50 non-members/per film. For information (941) 364-8662.

Take Stock in Children, Sarasota County Fall luncheon/dinner. Lunch or dinner to revise scholarships and awareness. For information (941) 373-7060.

December 2004

2 - Arthritis Foundation/Southwest Region Jingle Bell Run/Walk. Fund-raising 5K run with 1-mile option, Bradenton. For information (800) 741-4008, ext. 227.

3 - The Florida Center for Child and Family Development, Inc. Festival of Trees, Lights and Holiday Gifts. Black-tie optional dinner, drinks, auction and dancing, Michael's On East, $150/person. For information (941) 371-8820, ext. 1030.

3 - Ringling School of Art & Design Dream Makers Fundraising Breakfast. Annual new donor fundraising breakfast, Hyatt Sarasota, free. For information (941) 309-5455.

3 thru 4 - Sarasota Garden Club, Inc. Classic Bloomers. Crafts and holiday plants, Sarasota Garden Club, free; items to purchase. For information (941) 955-0875.

3 thru 5 - Junior League Holiday Tour of Homes and Tinsels & Treasures. For information (941) 953-5600.

4 - New College Library Association Mistletoe Ball. The oldest black-tie event in Sarasota, signalling the start of the holiday season. Dinner, dancing and auction, Charles Ringling Mansion, $200/person. For information (941) 359-4600.

7 - La Musica Di Asolo, Inc. Sonata a Due. Good music, good food and good company. An evening that starts with wine and hors d'oeuvres, followed by music recital and dinner, Charles Ringling House, $125-$175/person. For information (941) 346-1795.

8 - United Cerebral Palsy Hyatt Sarasota World's Largest Office Party, Michael's On East, $15/person. For information (941) 957-3599.

11 - Art Center Sarasota Holiday Boat Parade. An elegant evening as a participant in Sarasota's annual holiday boat parade aboard the luxurious Lady Sarasota yacht, departs from Hyatt Hotel pier. For information (941) 365-2032.

11 & 12 - Gulf Coast Men's Chorus Holiday Concerts. Holiday inspired repertoire of full chorus and smaller ensemble pieces featuring guest artist Sharon Scott, Holley Hall, $20/person. For information (941) 957-0404.

16 - SOULSPEAK/Sarasota Poetry Theatre SOULQUEST. Informal sessions for people who wish to learn more about SOULSPEAK poetry or who wish to find a more spiritual way to express themselves, 535 Columbia Court. For information (941) 366-6468.

16 - The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art Third Thursday at Cá d'Zan. Drinks and sunset on the grounds of Cá d'Zan. For information (941) 359-5733.

17 - Sarasota-Manatee Arch Family Holocaust Education Center of the Florida Holocaust Museum COEXISTENCE...A New Generation. A luncheon and fashion show to feature children and family members of all ages and cultures, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $125/person. For information (941) 378-8837.

17 - Police Athletic League of Sarasota County, Inc. Sarasota All-Star PAL Bowl. All-Star high school football game between Manatee and Sarasota counties, Manatee County, $6/person. For information (941) 361-6350.

18 - Sarasota Opera Opera Ball. Fourth annual ball, one of Sarasota's leading elegant affairs, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $275/person. For information (941) 366-8450, ext. 246.

28 thru 31 - PAL Sailor Circus Holiday and spring circus performances, Sailor Circus arena, $10-$14/person. For information (941) 361-6350.

29 and 30 - Florida West Coast Symphony, Inc. Perlman Music Program Dinner. Dinner and performance by gifted young musicians. Faculty includes Itzhak Perlman, dinner at Michael's On East; concert at Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center. For information (941) 953-4252.

31 - Sarasota Ballet of Florida, Inc. New York Tavern to Broadway Bash. Lavish New Year's Eve party with dancing, dining and a dramatic balloon drop at midnight, Hyatt Sarasota, $250/person, $50 "Babysitter Discount" for those over 40. Sponsorships also available. For information (941) 359-0099, ext. 120.

Other events happening in December:

WEDU Channel 3 Florida West Coast Public Broadcasting, Inc.On-air pledge drives to obtain new members and increase individual financial support, WEDU Studios. For information (800) 354-9338 or (941) 330-0716.

WUSF Public Broadcasting Membership drives. Pledge drives to increase membership base and maintain financial support, at station studios. For information (813) 974-8624.

January 2005

4 and 5 - All Children's Hospital Telethon. Multiple event weekend anchored by 22 hours of live television on WFLA News Channel 8, WFLA News Channel 8, Vinoy Park, St. Petersburg Hilton, Tyrone Mall. For information (727) 767-4199.

7 thru 9 - The Florida Center for Child and Family Development "Born to be Wild". Kickoff party for Thunder by the Bay motorcycle festival. Live music, silent auction and food. Casual dress. Leather and fringe welcome, Michael's On East, $25/person. For information (941) 371-8820, ext. 1030.

8 and 9 - NARSAD The National Alliance for Research on Schizophrenia & Depression Sunshine from Darkness Symposium. Free research symposium on the latest treatments for mental illness and gala dinner with a performance by Michael Feinstein, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, gala $275. For information (941) 308-MIND.

11 - American Red Cross A Taste for Life. Local area restaurants donate proceeds from food sales. For information (941) 379-9300, ext. 223.

14 - United Cerebral Palsy Find Your Valentine Day, Michael's On East. For information (941) 957-3599.

16 - Sarasota County Arts Council Arts Day. Twelve stages featuring live performances by area-based dance, music and theater groups. A juried art show, hands-on kids area, and booths by more than 40 area nonprofit organizations, downtown Sarasota, $2/person; children under 18 free. For information, Molly Demeulenaere, (941) 365-5118, ext. 301.

19 - National Council of Jewish Women, Sarasota-Manatee Section Women in Power Luncheon. Luncheon honoring three outstanding local women who have "made a difference," Michael's On East, $40/person. For information (941) 383-9394.

20 - SOULSPEAK/Sarasota Poetry Theatre SOULQUEST. Informal sessions for people who wish to learn more about SOULSPEAK poetry or who wish to find a more spiritual way to express themselves, 535 Columbia Court. For information (941) 366-6468.

20 - The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art Third Thursday at Cá d'Zan. Drinks and sunset on the grounds of Cá d'Zan. For information (941) 359-5733.

21 - Circus Sarasota "The Art of Circus" Gala. Dining and dancing, along with exciting circus entertainment, under the Big Top at Tuttle and Ringling avenues, $150-$250/person; $1,000-$2,250/tables. For information (941) 371-6798.

22 - The Great Outdoors Conservancy Conservation Celebration. Annual banquet, automobile raffle and auction, Bradenton Municipal Auditorium, $150/person. For information (941) 708-3456.

22 - Animal Rescue Coalition Gala 2005, Best in Show. An evening of dinner and dancing featuring a special performance by the nationally acclaimed "Johnny Poors and the Muttville Conix," Hyatt Sarasota, $250/person. For information (941) 957-1955.

26 - Gulf Coast Heritage Association, Inc. "From Salsa to Sorbet" Luncheon, Michael's On East, $60/member; $75/non-member. For information (941) 966-5214, ext. 250, Dianne Prairie.

27 - Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. Bishop's Annual Charity Ball, Chelsea Center at St. Thomas More, $150/person. For information (941) 488-5581.

27 - Community Foundation Legacy Society Luncheon. For information (941) 955-3000.

28 (thru Feb. 6) - Sarasota Film Festival, Inc. Film Festival and Filmmaker's Tribute Dinner. A spectacular formal dinner and celebration honoring the life and work of a legendary film talent. Also honors scholarship winners and film award recipients, Regal Hollywood 20 and The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $7-$275/person. For information (941) 364-9514 ext. 3.

29 - Asolo Theatre Company Season Gala. Dinner, dance and show benefiting artistic and educational programs, Hyatt Sarasota, $250-$1,000/person. For information (941) 383-3800.

29 - Sarasota Opera Opening Night Gala. Pre-opera cocktail party and dinner, performance of Don Giovanni, and Afterglow Party with champagne, dessert and dancing, Sarasota Opera House, $150/person. For information (941) 366-8450, ext. 246.

29 - Women's American ORT (Organization for Educational Resources and Technological Training) An Evening of Theater. Presentation of "Golda," a one-woman show starring Joan Wolfberg as Golda. For information (941) 926-1815.

30 - Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast FL, Inc. Girl Scout Cookie-Off. The area's top chefs create a dessert using Girl Scout cookies, Michael's On East, by invitation. For information (941) 921-5358, ext. 253.

Other events happening in January:

Agape Flights 25th Anniversary Missions Banquet. A multimedia celebration featuring the people, events and impact of Agape Flights over the past 25 years as well as a glimpse into Agape's future. For information (941) 355-5099.

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

Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (USA) Valentine Fund. Annual mailing to request funds used exclusively for research. For information (941) 312-0400.

Sarasota Chorus Sweet Adelines International, Inc. Annual Show. An afternoon of performance, The Players Theater, $12/person in advance; $15 at the door. Group rates available. For information (941) 925-1939.

February 2005

5 - Sarasota Film Festival, Inc.Filmmaker's Tribute Dinner. A spectacular formal dinner and celebration honoring the life and work of a legendary film talent. Also honors scholarship winners and film award recipients, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $275/person. For information (941) 364-9514 ext. 3.

6 - Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation Shop Israel in Sarasota. For information (941) 371-4546.

11 thru 12 - Junior League Barely Blemished Sale. For information (941) 953-5600.

15 - Art Center Sarasota Annual Fashion Show. Art themed fashion show in collaboration with Designing Women. Theme to be determined by area artists, Michael's On East, $65/members; $75/non-members. For information (941) 365-2032.

15 - Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) Second Hand Rose Fashion Show. Modeling of second-hand clothes by members, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. For information (941) 371-3700.

16 - Sarasota Opera Guild Sweetheart Luncheon. Luncheon honoring opera personalities, entertainment by Sarasota Opera principal artists, Michael's On East, $50-$250/person. For information (941) 966-2365.

17 - SOULSPEAK/Sarasota Poetry Theatre SOULQUEST. Informal sessions for people who wish to learn more about SOULSPEAK poetry or who wish to find a more spiritual way to express themselves, 535 Columbia Court. For information (941) 366-6468.

17 - The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art Third Thursday at Cá d'Zan. Drinks and sunset on the grounds of Cá d'Zan. For information (941) 359-5733.

18 - Museum of Asian Art Celebration of the Chinese New Year 2005, the Year of the Rooster. For information (941) 954-7117.

19 - Humane Society of Sarasota County Pug Parade. An afternoon celebration of area pugs and their owners. Concessions, pug fashion show, area animal vendors, free. For information (941) 955-4131.

22 - Community Foundation Unsung Heroes Reception. For information (941) 955-3000.

24 thru 27 - Children First, Inc.Children First Celebration. Series of events bringing attention to and support for very young children and families living in poverty, throughout Sarasota County, $10-$100/person. For information (941) 953-3877, ext. 115.

25 - Education Foundation of Sarasota County, Inc. Evening of Excellence. Elegant dinner and spirited student art auction showcasing outstanding high school talent, Michael's On East, $175/$250/person. Sponsorships available. For information (941) 927-0965.

26 - Sarasota Chorus of the Keys 56th Annual Show. 100-man chorus and champion quartets in concert performances, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, $18-$35/person. For information (941) 751-2087.

26 thru 27 - Venice Art Center Fine Arts Show and Sale. Artists sale of their work, Woodmere Park, free. For information (941) 485-7136.

28 - Women's Resource Center of Sarasota County Renaissance Luncheon. Luncheon featuring an "extra-special star," to be announced, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $75/person. For information (941) 366-1700.

Other events happening in February:

Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Sun Coast, Inc. Bowl For Kids' Sake 2005. Participants bowl and collect pledges, Sarasota, Venice and Bradenton. For information (941) 331-4376.

Englewood Helping Hand, Inc. Englewood Crop 5-mile Walk, Community Presbyterian Church, sponsors pledge funds. For information (941) 474-5864.

Girls Incorporated of Sarasota County Celebration luncheon. Annual award luncheon honoring three outstanding women with the "She Knows Where She Is Going" award, and one exemplary visionary leader with a "Visionary Award." For information (941) 366-6646, ext 207.

Longboat Key Center for the Arts "Art off the Wall." An exciting new way of taking home arts and collectibles. No auctioneer, no silent auction; everyone leaves with something wonderful, Longboat Key Club. For information (941) 383-2345.

Senior Friendship Centers Celebrity "He Sez, She Sez." Dinner, silent auction, entertainment, Michael's On East, $150-$500/person. For information (941) 556-3213.

American Society of Interior Designers (A.S.I.D.) Florida West Coast Chapter/Sarasota Annual A.S.I.D. Designer Showhouse. Member designers lend their talents to recreating a fabulous bayfront residence, then invite the general public to tour the home. Proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs, Ringling School of Art & Design and University of South Florida, $20/person. For information (941) 926-7794.

Island Village Montessori School Jog-A-Thon. For information (941) 484-4999.

Plantation Community Foundation Celebrity Golf Classic. For information (941) 497-4826.

March 2005

3 - Van Wezel Foundation A Gala Evening with Linda Ronstadt. Cocktails and dinner in the Grand Foyer, preferred performance seating and a "Meet the Artist" reception for gala patrons, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, $250/Gala Star; $500/Super Star Patron; $750/Show Stopper Patron. For information (941) 366-5578.

4 thru 6 - United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota-Manatee, Inc. Chocolate Sundae and Chocolate Festival. Chocolate bonanza, Michael's On East. For information (941) 957-3599.

5 - Cardinal Mooney High School 32nd Annual Dinner Auction. Auction featuring more than 250 silent and live auction items, entertainment and dinner, Michael's On East. For information (941) 379-2647, Vicki Wagner.

5 - Southeastern Guide Dogs, Inc. Annual Walk-a-thon. Volunteers gather pledges for walk-a-thon, Manatee County Fairgrounds, IMC Arena, volunteers collect pledges to walk. For information (941) 729-5665.

6 - Florida West Coast Symphony, Inc. Sarasota Music Festival Benefit. Performance by alumni, featuring soloist Karen Gohyo and gourmet dinner, Panuce Home. For information (941) 953-4252.

6 thru 7 - Foundation for Dreams, Inc. Tournament Fore Dreams. Celebrity golf tournament with a pairing party and silent auction the night before, Bradenton Country Club, For information (941) 748-8809.

7 and 12 - Child Protection Center Inc. Sarasota Comedy Festival. Cartoonists and their characters and a variety of comedians bring a week of laughter to raise funds to help abused children, venues throughout Sarasota. For information (941) 365-1277.

9 - The Community Music School of Southwest Florida "CMS at Showboat." An entertaining moveable feast of dinner, dancing, cocktails and an upscale auction at the Hyatt, followed by the show at The Players Theatre, followed by dessert with the cast, Hyatt Hotel and Players Theatre, $110/person for dinner, show and dessert; $150/patron; $250/sponsor; $40/person for show and dessert only. For information (941) 966-1142.

17 - SOULSPEAK/Sarasota Poetry Theatre SOULQUEST. Informal sessions for people who wish to learn more about SOULSPEAK poetry or who wish to find a more spiritual way to express themselves, 535 Columbia Court. For information (941) 366-6468.

17 - The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art Third Thursday at Cá d'Zan. Drinks and sunset on the grounds of Cá d'Zan. For information (941) 359-5733.

18 - Forty Carrots Family Center Carrotcakes 2005. Dinner, dancing, live and silent auctions, Hyatt Sarasota, $100-$150/person. For information (941) 365-7716.

19 - Florida West Coast Symphony, Inc. Swing into Spring. Swing to the sounds of the Florida West Coast Symphony with entertainment, food and drink, Hyatt Sarasota Ballroom. For information (941) 953-4252.

19 - G.WIZ Butterfly Ball. Black-tie event, dinner, dancing and auction, G.WIZ. For information (941) 309-4949, ext. 102, Donna Wolski.

19 - Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation "Walk to Cure Diabetes." Annual 5K walk on Siesta Key Beach that attracts more than 2,500 participants, free; walkers receive pledges to walk. For information (941) 929-0621.

20 - Jewish Family & Children's Services A Toast and Roast of Renee Sheade tribute dinner, Michael's On East. For information (941) 366-2224.

22 - Sarasota Opera Curtain Closer. The final celebration of the opera's season, hosted by artistic director, Victor De Renzi and executive director Susan Danis, Michael's On East, $125/person. For information (941) 366-8450, ext. 246.

23 (thru April 2) - PAL Sailor Circus Holiday and spring circus performances, Sailor Circus arena, $10-$14/person. For information (941) 361-6350.

26 - The Wellness Community-Southwest Florida Flight of Hope. Dinner/dance gala with live and silent auctions, Dolphin Aviation, $150 and up. For information (941) 921-5539, Jay Lockaby.

30 - Resurrection House, Inc. "An Evening to Remember." Evening with dinner, cabaret performance and desserts provided by Michael's On East, and door prize drawings, Florida Studio Theatre in the Goldstein Cabaret, $100/person. For information (941) 365-3759.

Other events happening in March:

Alzheimer's Association-Florida Gulf Coast Chapter Annual national walkathon, free; participating walkers collect donations prior to walk. For information (941) 365-8883.

Aquarian Quest, Inc. Water and Wooden Boat Festival. Fifth annual event celebrating community water resources. For information (941) 809-7700.

Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Sun Coast, Inc. Bowl For Kids' Sake 2005. Participants bowl and collect pledges, Sarasota, Venice and Bradenton. For information (941) 331-4376.

Big Brothers/Big Sisters of the Sun Coast, Inc. Sarasota Big Curtain Call. Evening of entertainment and auction. For information (941) 331-4376.

Fine Arts Society of Sarasota, Inc. The Creators and Collectors' Tour. Two-day tour of artists' and art collectors' homes and studios, Sarasota County, $17/person. For information (941) 966-1366.

Island Village Montessori School Spring Social. Silent auction, family dance. For information (941) 484-4999.

Jazz Club of Sarasota Sarasota Jazz Festival. Indoor and outdoor jazz events, some free to public, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, free-$40/person. For information (941) 366-1552.

Loveland Center, Inc. Jacaranda West Golf Tournament. Women's and men's golf tournament, Jacaranda West Country Club. For information (941) 493-2664.

Manasota Solve, Inc. Gala dinner. Dinner with featured speaker, Sarasota Hyatt, $75/person. For information (941) 748-0094.

Mental Health Community Centers, Inc. Celebrity Waiters Dinner. Celebrity waiters vie for the "Tarnished Spoon" award by getting the largest amount of tips from their table of guests, Village on the Isle, $50/person. For information (941) 496-4934.

National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Mid-Florida Chapter MS Walk. Annual charity walk. For information (813) 889-8383 or (800) FIGHT-MS.

New Gate School "Celebration." Annual dinner-dance with live and silent auction, Chelsea Center, $100/person. For information (941) 922-4949.

Suncoast Humane Society Furry Skurry. Annual off-site adoption and fund-raiser with arts and crafts, pet contests, food vendors, entertainment and children's activities, Venice. For information (941) 474-7884.

Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Florida Suncoast Affiliate Luncheon, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. For information (941) 360-8668.

WEDU Channel 3 Florida West Coast Public Broadcasting, Inc. On-air pledge drives, WEDU Studios. For information (800)