2008-2009 Charity Register calendar.

As the curtain rises on another packed social season, it's time to decide which events will take center stage in your schedule. Our exclusive Charity Register calendar shines a spotlight on the year's brightest parties and most noteworthy fund-raising events, all of which benefit local nonprofits.

Whether you're planning to attend your favorite annual auction or a new indie film festival, you'll find the details here. And be sure to check sarasotamagazine.com throughout the year for updated info and even more charitable events.

SEPTEMBER2008

SPONSORFD BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

5 The John and Mabile Ringing Museum of Art * UnParty Mattison's Forty One. [phone]

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13 Family Network on Disabilities of Manatee/Sarasota * Fun Run Myakka River State Park, $25. [phone]

13 Humane Society of Sarasota County * Fourth Annual Ron Gordon Golf Tournament Bent Tree Country Club, $85. [phone]

13 Lighthouse of Manasota * Dr. James Morrish Sr. Memorial Golf Challenge IMG Academies Golf & Country Club, $150/player. [phone]

18 United Way of South Sarasota County * Campaign Kickoff Lunch Plantation Golf and Country Club, $25. [phone]

20 Keep Sarasota Beautiful * Coastal Cleanup [phone]

26 Manasota Association for Retarded Citizens * Fifth annual golf tournament and TGIF Party Bradenton Country Club, $500/team. [phone]

26 Senior Friendship Centers * Swinging with Friends Venice Golf Tournament Mission Valley Golf and Country Club, $150. [phone]

OCTOBER 2008

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

3 Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota * Ritz-Carlton Members Club Boys & Girls Club Golf Classic Ritz-Carlton Members Golf Club, $500/player. [phone]

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4 Agape Flights * Taste of Venice Agape Hangar, free; reservations required. [phone]

4 Lutheran Services Florida * Sunset Silent Auction Chelsea Center, $35 in advance; $40 at the door. [phone]

4 American Heart Association * Start! Heart Walk Payne Park, pledge event. [phone]

4 Susan G. Komen for the Cure--Florida Suncoast Affiliate * Race for the Cure Nationally sanctioned 5K race. Vinoy Park, $35. [phone]

10-16 Sarasota Film Society * First Annual Family Film Festival Burns Court and Lakewood Ranch Cinemas, $5/member, $7.50/nonmember. [phone]

11 American Cancer Society--Sarasota Unit * Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk Sarasota Polo Club, free. [phone]; (800) ACS-2345

11 New Gate School * New Gate Golf Tournament Palm-Aire Country Club, $125. [phone], [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

16 Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation * Key to the Cure, Groovin' at Saks 54 Saks Fifth Avenue, $40. [phone]

17 Grapes for Humanity * Maison Louis Jadot wine dinner Benefiting Oak Park School. Michael's On East, $300. [phone]

17-18 The Junior League of Sarasota Florida * Tinsel and Treasures Municipal Auditorium, $5. [phone]

18 Gulfcoast Fellowship of Christian Athletes * Golf tour nament Qualifier for national scramble. Rosedale Golf & Country Club. [phone]

18 Easter Seals Southwest Florida * Yellow Rose Black-Tie Gala University Park Country Club. [phone]

18 Girls Incorporated * Sarasota Magazine presents Recipe for Happiness A full day of entertaining and informative sessions relating to a happy and successful life. $55. [phone] ext. 211.

18 The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art * UnGala Gala Ringling Museum, $250. [phone]

18 St. Armands Circle Association * Taste of St. Armands St. Armands Circle Park. [phone]

18 United Way of South Sarasota County * United Way golf tournament Pelican Pointe $75. [phone]

19 The Jewish Housing Council Foundation * Kobernick House Art and Craft Show and Sale Kobernick House, free. [phone]

24 Community Haven for Adults and Children with Disabilities * Haven Hoedown Community Haven. $50. [phone]

24 Girls Incorporated of Sarasota County * A Whole Night of Food and Fashion Wine tasting and fashion show. Whole Foods Market, $50 and $60. [phone]

OCTOBER 2008

24 United Nations Association of the United States America--UNA-USA Sarasota-Manatee Chapter * United Nations Day Celebration [phone]

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24 Friends of Sarasota County Parks * Clyde Butcher Art Exhibit Preview Party Phillippi Estate Park, $50. Exhibit runs through Nov. 23, $10. [phone]

25 Community AIDS Network * Ninth Annual CAN Dance Ballroom championship dancing event. Chelsea Center, $200. [phone]

25 Laurel Civic Association * Cool Caribbean Nights Silent auction, dinner, dance. Laurel Community Center, $75. [phone]

25 Mote Marine Laboratory * Oceanic Evening Mote Aquarium Courtyard, $250. [phone]

25 Manasota BUDS (Bringing Up Down Syndrome) * Buddy Walk Hunsader Farms, family entrance: $35. [phone]

25 Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation * Game Night [phone]

26 ALSO Out Youth * Annual brunch Longboat Key club, $50. [phone]

26 Healthy Start Coalition of Sarasota County * Beach Stroll 'n' Roll Siesta Key Public Beach, $25 minimum donation. [phone]

26 Marie Selby Botanical Gardens * Kickoff for the Children's Rainforest at Selby Gardens capital campaign Selby Gardens. [phone]

SPONSORTD BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

27-28 Ringling College of Art and Design * 2008 Sarasota International Design Summit The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota; Ringling College campus, $795, full conference; other tickets available. [phone]

Oct. 27-Nov. 29 Art Center Sarasota * Holiday Art Market Contemporary arts and crafts boutique. Art Center Sarasota, free; $2 donation requested. [phone]

28 Children First * Luncheon/fashion show Sharky's on the Pier, $40; $500/table. [phone]

29 Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center * Annual fall event [phone]

NOVEMBER 2008

1 South Florida Museum * Snooty Gala South Florida Museum, $175. [phone]

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1 EARS Animal Rescue Sanctuary * Purrfect Caper III, The Perfect Caper Punta Gorda, $50. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

1 Florida West Coast Symphony * Symphony Season's 60th Anniversary Opening Night Celebratory dinner. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, $125. [phone]

1-2 Southeastern Guide Dogs * International Auto Show St. Armands Circle, free, [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

2 University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee * Brunch on the Bay To celebrate leadership and raise dollars for scholarships. Powel Crosley Mansion, $100/person; sponsorships available, $1,500-$25,500. [phone]

2 Sarasota Opera * Curtain Raiser Introducing the fall opera season. Michael's On East, $175. [phone]

4 The Children's Guardian Fund * Let the Season Begin Ninth annual luncheon and gift bazaar. Michael's On East. [phone]

5 New College Foundation * Old-Fashioned New England Clambake 30th year. New College Bayfront, $125. [phone]

5-16 Mayor's Feed the Hungry Program * Communitywide food drive Collection point: Sarasota Fairgrounds. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

6-8 Forty Carrots Family Center * Wine, Women & Shoes Including Wine 101, and evening wine class and a "pre-loved" shoe sale; a luncheon fashion show, wine tasting and shopping extravaganza showcasing top shoe designers and leading women in wine; and wine dinners for patrons and sponsors. Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine bar, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, private homes. Varies by event, $50-$175. [phone]

7 Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County * Kids' night Out The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $250/person; $2,500/table. [phone]

7 New Gate School * In the Pink--A Taste of New Gate New Gate, Clark Road campus, $60, [phone], [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

7 Sarasota Ballet Association * The Magic of Dance Michael's On East, $100. [phone]

7-8 SOULSPEAK/SOULMOVES * SOULSPEAK Video Sizzle Evening reception and showing of art videos featuring collaborations by poets, musicians, dancers and local and Mexican artists. 535 Columbia Court, Sarasota. [phone]

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SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

8 Out-of-Door Academy * 29th annual Extravaganza Roaring the Night Away: A Vintage Affair. Black-tie dinner, dancing, live, silent and online auctions. Dolphin Aviation, $250. [phone]

8 Hispanic-American Center * Hispanic Festival 17th Street and Hammock Place, free. [phone]

8 The Hermitage Artist Retreat * Lobster Bake The Hermitage, $150. [phone]

9 All Faiths Food Bank * Empty Bowls Thanksgiving Day-related program. Phillippi Estate Mansion. [phone]

10 Sarasota Opera * Sarasota Opera Second Annual Golf Tournament The Founders Club, $325. [phone]

11 Pregnancy Solutions ... Knowing Your Choices * Seventh Annual Pregnancy Solutions Gala Banquet Plantation Golf and Country Club. Dinner is complimentary; an opportunity to make a financial gift will be extended. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

11 Ringling College of Art and Design * Annual golf tournament The Concession Golf Club. [phone]

11 Sarasota Medical Pregnancy Center * Harvest for Life Michael's On East, $70; table sponsorships available. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

12 First Step of Sarasota * 40th Anniversary Gala Michael's On East, $60, $125. [phone]

12 Moffit Cancer Center Foundation * An Evening with Moffitt Cancer Center Featuring Sam Donaldson. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $250; $450/couple. [phone]

13 Ear Research Foundation * Hear and Now Sarasota Opera House, $150. [phone]

13 Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida * High Tea at High Noon Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, $50. [phone]

14 Humane Society of Sarasota County * Paws on the Catwalk--After Dark Michael's On East, $150. [phone]

14 Women's Resource Center of Sarasota County * Fall Gathering Plantation Golf & Country Club, $40. [phone]

14-23 Sarasota Film Society * 19th Annual International Cine-World Film Festival Burns Court and Lakewood Ranch Cinemas, $5/member, $7.50/nonmember. [phone]

15 Art Center Sarasota * Private Eyes: Fine Art Collection Tour Some of the area's finest art collections and homes. Art Center Sarasota, local homes, $25. [phone]

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15 North Port Art Center * Festival of Arts Luau North Port Art Center, free, [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

15 Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida * Safe Sex: Red Eye to Vegas Dolphin Aviation, $50 in advance; $75 at the door. [phone]

15 Saint Stephen's Episcopal School * Falcon Fete [phone]

16 United Nations Association of the United States America--UNA-USA Sarasota-Manatee Chapter * Liberian Film Festival [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

17 United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota-Manatee * Gathering of the Goddesses Luncheon Michael's On East. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

18 Association of Fundraising Professionals * National Philanthropy Day "Change the World with a Giving Heart." {941) 921-5410

20 Girls Incorporated of Sarasota County * Angel Luncheon Girls Incorporated, free. [phone]

21 Manasota Association for Retarded Citizens * An Evening of Art Mattison's Riverside. [phone]

21 Salvation Army Sarasota Area Command * The Holiday Feast, Because of You Dinner Michael's On East, $125 and up. [phone]

21 Sarasota Opera Guild * New York, NY Party Sarasota Opera House. [phone]

21 St. Martha Catholic School * Knights on the Run jog-a-thon St. Martha Catholic School, pledge event. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

21-22 All-Star Children's Foundation * Celebrity Gala & Golf Tournament Longboat Key Club and Resort. [phone]

22 Trinity Charities * Third Annual AIDS Walk New College campus, free. [phone]

22 Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast * Denim & Diamonds Dinner and auction. Venetian Golf & River Club, $75. [phone]

22 Make-a-Wish Foundation of Central and Northern Florida * Walk for Wishes Festival Payne Park, $10. [phone]

23 Historic Spanish Point * Pig Out Pigskin party at the Point. Historic Spanish Point. [phone]

30 The Sarasota Choral Society * 64th annual production of Handel's Messiah Church of the Palms. [phone]

DECEMBER 2008

1 Fine Arts Society of Sarasota * Celebrate the Arts Holiday Luncheon Michael's On East, $50. [phone]

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4-6 Sarasota Garden Club * Holiday Boutique and Art at the Gardens Sarasota Garden Club, free. Items to purchase. [phone]

5 The Florida Center for Child and Family Development * 21st Annual Festival of Trees, Lights and Holiday Gifts Michael's On East, $175. [phone]

5 Venice Art Center * Christmas Teas Venice Art Center, $35. [phone]

5-6 The Junior League of Sarasota Florida * Holiday Tour of Homes Municipal Auditorium, various "green" homes, $20. [phone]

6 Operation Serving Children Christmas * Soiree 13466 Heritage Way, donations accepted. [phone]

6 Venice Area Beautification * VABI Boat Bash Venetian trailhead, $40. [phone]

6 Community Haven for Adults and Children with Disabilities * 11th Annual Jingle & Jog 5K and one-mile run. Community Haven. [phone]

6 Englewood Helping Hand * Englewood Helping Hand Bike Run Englewood United Methodist Church, pledge event. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

6 New College Library Association * Mistletoe Ball Charles Ringling Mansion and bayfront, $250. [phone]

7 Camp Florida Fish Tales * McCurdy's Comedy Theatre and Monks Steamer Bar Annual Golf Tournament Rolling Green Golf Club, $65; $100 hole sponsor. [phone]

7 ORT America * Palm Chapter Chanukah Party Avista Clubhouse, Palm-Aire Country Club. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

8 and 15 Designing Women Boutique * Fashion Week 2008 Pamela Dennis trunk show and The Jewels of Sarasota community calendar and cabaret/style show and dinner. FSU Center for the Performing Arts, $125-$500/person. [phone]

8 La Musica Di Asolo * Sonata a Due Music recital and dinner. Charles Ringling House, $150-$200. [phone]

8 Florida West Coast Symphony Association * Holiday luncheon and style show Michael's On East, $50. [phone]

8 Gloria Musicae * Christmas concert Church of the Redeemer, $20/adult; $10/student. [phone]

9 Sarasota Opera Guild * Poinsettia Luncheon Michael's On East. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

10 Sarasota Ballet Association * Holiday Luncheon Michael's On East, $45. [phone]

11 Greater Sarasota Junior Golf Association * GSJGA Pro-Am Misty Creek Country Club, $125. [phone]

11 Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation * Women's Day Featuring Tiffany Schlaine. [phone]

19 Police Athletic League of Sarasota County * PAL Bowl Football All-Star Game $3/student; $5/adult; VIP, $100. [phone]

20-21 West Coast Civic Ballet * Peter Pan Booker High School, $15, $20/adult; $10, $15/senior; $5, $10/student. [phone]

21 Jewish Family & Children's Services * Gershwin Glorious Gershwin 2008 gala featuring Leif Bjaland and the Florida West Coast Symphony. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. [phone]

27-29 PAL Sailor Circus * Holiday Spectacular $10, $12, $16. [phone], [phone]

31 The Society Inc. * New Year's Eve Gala Polo Bar & Grill, Fete Ballroom, Lakewood Ranch. [phone]

JANUARY 2009

3 Perlman Music Program * Celebration Concert and Dinner Sarasota Opera House, $500.

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9 Circus Sarasota * The Art of Circus Gala Under the Big Top The Roaring '20s; honoring John and Tana Sandefur. Tuttle Avenue and 12th Street, $200; patron, $250. [phone]

9-11 The Florida Center for Child and Family Development * 11th Annual Thunder by the Bay Motorcycle Festival [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

10 Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice Inc. * Catholic Charities Ball 20th anniversary, An Evening in Ireland. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $235. [phone]

10 Crowley Museum and Nature Center * Southwest Florida Heritage Festival Crowley Museum and Nature Center. [phone]

10, 11 NARSAD * 12th Annual Sunshine from Darkness Gala Honoring NARSAD Florida founders J. Robert and Lee Peterson and Academy Award-winning actress Patty Duke. Symposium, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, free; gala: The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $300. (941) 308-MIND

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

12 Sarasota Ballet Association * On Pointe Luncheon Hyatt Regency Sarasota, by invitation. [phone]

15 All Faiths Food Bank * Taste of the Suncoast Evening of sampling food and wine from Sarasota restaurants. Westfield Southgate. [phone]

15 WEDU Channel 3, Florida West Coast Public Broadcasting * WEDU Be More Awards Celebration of West Central Florida's nonprofit community. A La Carte Event Pavilion, $50 and up. [phone]

16 Animal Rescue Coalition * Dog's Night Out Saks Fifth Avenue. [phone]

17 American Cancer Society--Sarasota/DeSoto Counties Unit * Cattle Barons' Ball Thomas Ranch, $100. [phone] ext. 23

18 Jewish Housing Council Foundation * Flying High--Dolly and Pedro Reis Circus Sarasota, $150 guest sponsorship opportunities available. [phone]

21 National Council of Jewish Women, Sarasota-Manatee Section * Women in Power Luncheon Honoring three outstanding local women who have made a difference. Michael's On East. [phone]

23-24 Plantation Community Foundation * Tour of Homes Varied, $25. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGA ZINE

24 Florida West Coast Symphony * Fire & Ice Gala Featuring Cirque de la Symphonie and fireworks on the bay. Hyatt Regency Sarasota, gala; Van Wezel, performance and fireworks, $275 and up. [phone]

30 Hispanic-American Center * Honoring Our Angels Meadows Country Club, $125, [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

31 G.WIZ--The Science Museum * Sixth Annual Butterfly Ball G.WIZ. [phone]

FEBRUARY 2009

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

3 The Artist Series of Sarasota * Friends Dinner Gala Meadows Country Club, $85. [phone]

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3 ORT America * Gulfside Chapter Fashion Show Luncheon Michael's On East. [phone]

4 Manatee Community Foundation * Spirit of Manatee Awards, A Celebration of Giving Luncheon recognizing outstanding philanthropists in Manatee County. Bradenton Auditorium, $125/individual; $1,000/table. [phone]

7 Friends of Oscar Scherer Park * Ninth Annual Scrub Jay 5K Run and one-mile fun run Oscar Scherer State Park, preregistration: $20/adult; $15/ ages 16-18: 15 and under free. [phone]

SPONSORD BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

7 Sarasota Conservation Foundation * The Second Annual Palm Ball Bay Preserve at Osprey. [phone]

7 Sarasota Opera * 2009 Opening Night Gala Celebrating the opening of the 50th season with a performance of Puccini's Tosca, followed by dinner and dancing. Pineapple Avenue, Five Points Park, $200, gala; call for performance pricing. [phone]

7 South County Family YMCA * BJack-Tie Auction South County Family YMCA, $175. [phone]

10 Sarasota Opera Guild * Sweetheart of the Opera Luncheon Michael's On East. [phone]

11 Historic Spanish Point * Luncheon Michael's On East. [phone]

11-12 Plantation Community Foundation * Celebrity Golf Classic Plantation Golf and Country Club, free (spectators only), [phone]

13 Children First * 10th Annual Celebration Golf Tournament Pelican Pointe Golf & Country Club, $150. [phone]

13 New College Foundation * Big Band Valentine Bash Michael's On East, $225. [phone]

13-15 Child Protection Center * Ferraris on St.Armands Friday reception, Rectrix Aerodrome Center, $110 ($120 after Jan. 15); Saturday, St. Armands Circle, free; Saturday dinner, $275; Sunday breakfast, $50. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

Feb. 13-March 8 Florida West Coast Symphony Association * 34th Annual Symphony Designer Showcase Summer Cove on Siesta, $20 in advance; $25 at the door. [phone]

14 WEDU Channel 3, Florida West Coast Public Broadcasting * Sojourn Annual black-tie., wine-paired cultural gala. Belleview Biltmore Resort, S250-plus. [phone]

SOPNSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

15 VanWezel Foundation * A Gala Evening with Natalie Cole Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. [phone]

17 First Step of Sarasota * Sixth Annual Caring Hearts Luncheon Michael's On East. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

21 Humane Society of Sarasota County * Sarasota Magazine 12th annual Pug Parade Adventure Park in Lakewood Ranch. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

21 Longboat Key Center for the Arts * Plein Air Affair Dinner, dance, live auction. Longboat Key Club, $175-$300; table sponsors, $1,500-$5,000. [phone]

21 Saint Stephen's Episcopal School * Falcon 5K run Saint Stephen's Episcopal School. [phone]

21 St. Martha Cathofic School * Light up the Knight Dinner, dance, auction. St. Martha Catholic School, $25. [phone]

21 The Wellness Community * Flight of Hope Dinner/dance gala, Dolphin Aviation. $195. [phone]

21-22 Venice Art Center * Fine art sale and show Venice Art Center, free. [phone]

22 ORT America * SaraMana Chapter Fashion Show Luncheon Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club. [phone]

23 Senior Friendship Centers * Attitudes: A Theater Showcase The Friendship Center, $65. [phone]

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24 Goodwill Foundation * Goodwill Fat Tuesday Party Michael's On East, $200. [phone]

27 Education Foundation of Sarasota County * Evening of Excellence Dinner and student art auction. Michael's On East, $200; patron, $250. [phone]

27 Venice Art Center * Paint-Out in Paradise Venice Art Center, $35. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

28 All Children's Hospital Guild of Sarasota and Manatee * Moonlight Over Rio Powel Crosley Estate, $175. [phone]

28 American Cancer Society--Sarasota Unit * Cattle Barons' Ball The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $200. [phone], (800) ACS-2345

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

28 Asolo Repertory Theatre * Season Gala $250 and up. [phone]

28 Hearts Afire * Annual benefit International auction items. The Chelsea Center. [phone]

28 The Cat Depot * Catsino Royale Palm Avenue. $150. [phone]

28 New Gate School * Celebration Dinner, dance, silent and live auction, Polo Grill ballroom, $125. [phone], [phone]

28 Sarasota Audubon Society * Pinecraft Potato Fest Clean-up and exotic-plant removal. [phone]

28 Southeastern Guide Dogs * Annual Walk-a-thon Manatee County Fair Grounds, Palmetto, pledge event. [phone]

28 Susan G. Komen for the Cure--Florida 5uncoast Affiliate * Pink Tie Gala T. Pepin Hospitality Centre, Tampa, $175. [phone]

28 Temple Beth Sholom Schools * The 16th Annual Celebration of Imagination, a Crystal Gala Celebrating Our Children Temple Beth Sholom, $125. [phone]

28 United Way of South Sarasota County * United Way Agency Walk-a-thon Centennial Park, free. [phone]

MARCH 2009

1 Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida * Girl Scout Cook-ie-Off The area's top chefs create desserts using Girl Scout cookies. Michael's On East, contact: 921-5358 ext. 307.

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1-7 Jazz Club of Sarasota * Sarasota Jazz Festival Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and other locations, free-$60. [phone]

1 Jewish Housing Council Foundation * Festival of Jewish Food Kobernick House, free. [phone]

1 Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation * Historic Homes Tour $25. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

2 Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida * 43rd Annual Dinner Municipal Auditorium, $150. [phone]

3 Plantation Community Foundation * Fashion Show Plantation Golf and Country Club, $35 [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

6 The Community Foundation of Sarasota County * PJs with a Purpose: Celebrating Women's Philanthropy Co-hosted with the Manatee Community Foundation and the Lakewood Ranch Community Fund. The Ritz-Carlton. Sarasota, $50. [phone]

6 and 8 United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota-Manatee * Chocolate Sundae & The Chocolate Festival Chocolate-themed interactive dinner and tasting. Michael's On East. [phone]

7 Forty Carrots Family Center * Club Forty Food, DJ, gaming tables, silent auction. Rectrix Aviation. [phone]

7 Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation * Corinthian Gala The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $300. [phone]

8 United Nations Association of the United States America--UNA-USA Sarasota-Manatee Chapter * International Women's Day Global women: ambassadors, FS officers, Peace Corps and a U.N. diplomat. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

13 Children First * 10th Annual Celebration Dinner & Auction Hyatt Regency Sarasota, $150. [phone]

13-14 Fine Arts Society of Sarasota * The Creators and Collectors Tour Sarasota County, $20. [phone]

14 The Hermitage Artist Retreat * Beach Brunch and Bidding Auction The Hermitage, $100. [phone]

19 Community Haven for Adults and Children with Disabilities * Haven Mad Hatter Tea $25. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

20 Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast * Sports Legends Weekend Gala Dinner and auction. Hyatt Regency Sarasota, $200. [phone]

20 Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) * SPARCCLE Gala The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

20 Sarasota Ballet of Florida * Anna Karenina Gala Dinner Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. [phone]

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20-22 New College Foundation * Crissy Galleries and NCF Auction New College Bayfront. [phone]

21 Animal Rescue Coalition * "Best in Show" Gala Michael's On East, $250. [phone]

21 Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation * Walk to Cure Diabetes Annual 5K walk. Siesta Key Beach, free; walkers collect donations toward walk team totals. [phone]

21 Mental Health Community Centers * Celebrity Waiters Dinner $50. [phone]

21 United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota-Manatee * Chillounge Night Palm Avenue. [phone]

25-28, April 1-4 Police Athletic League of Sarasota County * PAL Sailor Circus 60th Anniversary Shows PAL Sailor Circus Arena, $10, $12 and $15. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

26, 28 The Artist Series of Sarasota Fifth annual scholarship dinner and competition Dinner, the Oaks Club, $100; competition, Historic Asolo Theater, free. [phone]

26 Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central and Northern Florida Daydreams and Wishes Luncheon [phone]

26 Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation * Women's Passover Celebration [phone]

27 Sarasota/Manatee Association for Riding Therapy (SMART) * Sarasota Polo Club Polo Ball Sarasota Polo Club, $175. [phone]

27-28 The Foundation for Dreams Tournament * Fore Dreams River Strand Golf & Country Club, $100, gala; $1,500/foursorne. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

March 27-April 5 Sarasota Film Festival * Festival and Filmmakers Tribute Dinner Honoring the life and work of a legendary film talent, scholarship winners and film award recipients. Festival, Hollywood 20, $8 and up; Tribute Dinner, Longboat Key Club and Resort, $300. [phone]

28 Ringling College of Art and Design * An Evening at the Avant-Garde Ringling College campus. [phone]

28 The Dreams are Free School at Bishop Nevins Academy * Chelsea Center Dinner Auction Bishop Nevins Academy. [phone]

28-29 Sarasota Garden Club * Flower show Sarasota Garden Club, $3.50. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

30 Women's Resource Center of Sarasota County * Renaissance Luncheon The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $95. [phone]

APRIL 2009

1 New College Library Association * Pique-nique sur la Baie Gourmet French luncheon and fashion show by Neiman Marcus. Charles Ringling Mansion and bayfront, $125. [phone]

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SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

2 Girls Incorporated of Sarasota County * 21st Annual Celebration Luncheon Bestowing "She Knows Where She's Going," "Visionary" and "Girl of the Year" awards. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $75. [phone]

4 Gloria Musicae * Fund raiser featuring Robert Levin $100 [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

4 Marie Selby Botanical Gardens * The Orchid Ball Selby Gardens. [phone]

6 Circus Sarasota * Laughter Unlimited Luncheon [phone]

13 Gloria Musicae * 30th Anniversary Concert Sarasota Opera House, $25. [phone]

14 Joining Our Youth (JOY) * Romancing the Tartans Two-day celebration, plaid fashion show and luncheon. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $80. [phone]

15 Community Video Archives (CVA) * Annual Hall of Fame Luncheon Michael's On East, $75. [phone]

16 Joining Our Youth (JOY) * Celebrity golf tournament The Ritz-Carlton Members Golf Club, $250. [phone]

18 The Foundation for Manatee Community College * Women's Board Fashion Show MCC Venice campus. [phone]

19 All Faiths Food Bank * Giving Hunger the Blues Daylong festival with area bands, games, food and beverages. Hillview Street. [phone]

23 All Children's Hospital Guild of Sarasota and Manatee * Carrabba's Luncheon and Fashion Show Carrabba's, University Parkway, $25. [phone]

23 Samaritan Counseling Services of the Gulf Coast * Women of Compassion Helping Women in Need The Silent Samaritan campaign gathers funds to provide affordable faith-based counseling to women and children in need, culminating with a celebration luncheon. Michael's On East, $100. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

23-26 Florida Winefest and Auction * Florida Winefest and Auction Friday night gala dinner; Saturday brunch and charity auction. Primarily at The RitzCarlton, Sarasota, and 30-plus local venues, Winefest events, $15-$300; charity auction, $175; Friday night gala, $300. [phone]

25 Charis Center * Siesta Key Beach Run/Walk Benefiting the Caring Fund, which helps offset counseling fees for individuals in need. Siesta Key Beach, $20. [phone]

25 Easter Seals Southwest Florida * 13th Annual Meadows Cup Pro-Am Golf Tournament The Meadows Country Club. [phone]

25 Lighthouse of Manasota * Be a Visionary Walk Sarasota Jungle Gardens, $25/adult, $10/child five and older. [phone]

25 Moffit Cancer Center Foundation * Magnolia Ball A La Carte Event Pavilion, $1,000. [phone]

25 Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) * SPARCC Prince and Princess Ball Girl Scouts Conference Center. [phone]

25 South County Family YMCA * Tropical Nights Palm Island Resort, $175. [phone]

30 Florida West Coast Symphony Association * Spring luncheon Bird Key Yacht Club. [phone]

MAY 2009

1 InStride Equine-Assisted Therapy * Derby Day 2009 Michael's On East, $150. [phone]

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SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

2 United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota-Manatee * Fabulous Foxes & Hot Mamas Luncheon Michael's On East. [phone]

2 The Community Music School of Southwest Florida * Kentucky Derby Barbecue [phone]

9 Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast * The Big Race Renaissance of Sarasota, $75. [phone]

9 The Foundation for Manatee Community College * Men's Charity Golf Tournament Sarasota Polo Club. [phone]

SPONSORED BY SARASOTA MAGAZINE

9 YMCA Foundation of Sarasota * Going for the Gold Dinner and auction. [phone]

11 The Players Theatre * The Players Spotlight Awards The Players Theatre, $50. [phone]

15 Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation * Eighth Annual Physicians Golf Tournament The Meadows Country Club, $195. [phone]

JUNE/JULY 2009

6 Community Youth Development * Starry, Starry Night Prom $75. [phone]

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6 Women's Resource Center of Sarasota County * Second Annual WRSC Golf Invitational [phone]

June 26-July 5 Suncoast Foundation for the Handicapped * Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix Festival [phone] ext. 1800

AUGUST 2009

15 Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central and Northern Florida * Bridesmaid Bash [phone]

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22 South County Family YMCA * Luau South County Family YMCA, $50. [phone]

EARS Animal Rescue Sanctuary * Sprinkler Scramble DeSoto County, $75. [phone]

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National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Mid-Florida Chapter * 50th Anniversary Gala [phone]

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PALS Partners in Education * Five-Star School Award School Board meeting hall, free to invitees. [phone]

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Second chance-Last Opportunity * Share the Light luncheon Michael's On East, $50. [phone]

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Cardinal Mooney High School * Fall Golf Tournament Waterlefe Golf & Country Club. [phone]

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Family Network on Disabilities of Manatee/Sarasota Inc. * Hunsader Farms Pumpkin Festival Children's game area. Hunsader Farms, call for price. [phone]

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InStride Equine-Assisted Therapy * Absolute Aluminum Golf Tournament Lake Venice Golf Club, $65. [phone]

K.I.D.S. By The Sea--A division of H.I.S. K.I.D.S. * Teddy Bear Run Sarasota Fairgrounds, $10. [phone]

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K.I.D.S. By The Sea--A division of H.I.S. K.I.D.S. * Holiday Adoptions All Over, varies. [phone], [phone]

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Loveland Center * Loveland Sings Venice Theatre, $15. [phone]

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Special Athlete Boosters * 5K Classic South Lido Park, varied. [phone]

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Suncoast Humane Society * Dinner event $75. [phone]

Gulf Coast Men's Chorus and Harmony: The Women's Voices of Sarasota * Holiday Concert [phone]

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St. Francis Animal Rescue * Tree of Life Select locations, $1, $5. [phone]

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The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art * Gallery Gala Ringling Museum. [phone]

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Loveland Center * The Fabulous Hubcaps [phone]

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PALS Partners in Education * Business Partnership Recognition Free to invitees. [phone]

St. Francis Animal Rescue * Cat's Meow Gala [phone]

Ringling College Library Association * Town Hall Lecture Series Through March. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, $250-$600. [phone]

Englewood Helping Hand Inc. Englewood Crop Walk Five-mile walk. Community Presbyterian Church, pledge event. [phone]

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Literacy Council of Sarasota Celebrating * Authors and Illustrators in Our Community luncheon [phone]

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PAL Sailor Circus * Annual dinner gala $150. [phone]

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Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) * Second Hand Rose Fashion Show and Luncheon The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. [phone]

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Wildlife Center of Venice * Party in Paradise American Legion, $35. [phone]

American Cancer Society--Sarasota/DeSoto Counties Unit * Relay for Life Teams walk, jog or run relay-style for 18 hours, plus a cancer survivor dinner and candle-lighting ceremony. Free. [phone] ext. 23

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American Heart Association * Go Red for Women Luncheon [phone]

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Art Center Sarasota * Icons and Idols Gala Art Center Sarasota, $15. [phone]

March Camp Florida Fish Tales * Springfest Block Party Donation. [phone]

Crowley Museum and Nature Center * Starry Nite Dinner and silent auction, amazing celestial sights via powerful telescopes. Crowley Museum and Nature Center. [phone]

Humane Society of Sarasota County * Paws on the Catwalk Luncheon [phone]

North Port Art Center * Annual gala and art auction North Port Art Center. [phone]

Special Athlete Boosters * Coast Cadillac Laurel Oak Cup golf tournament Laurel Oaks Country Club, varied. [phone]

Suncoast Humane Society * Pet Appreciation Day Free. [phone]

Susan G. Komen for the Cure--Florida Suncoast Affiliate * Annual Luncheon The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $75. [phone]

Literacy Volunteers * Deal Me In for Literacy Card and game party. Aston Gardens, Venice, $10. [phone]

National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Mid-Florida Chapter * WalkMS 2009 $125 to receive a commemorative WalkMS shirt. [phone]

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National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Mid-Florida Chapter * 2009 Bike MS [phone]

Resurrection House * An Evening to Remember Dinner, entertainment, live and silent auction. Michael's On East. [phone]

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Salvation Army Sarasota Area Command * Schoenbaum Humanitarian Award Luncheon The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, $75 and up. [phone]

Special Athlete Boosters Inc. * Sharks Tooth Festival Venice Airport Festival Grounds, $3. [phone]

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PALS Partners in Education * Outstanding School Volunteers Recognition Breakfast Michael's On East, free to invitees. [phone]

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Rotary Futures * Duck Pluck Sharks Tooth Festival, $5/chance. [phone]

American Red Cross--Southwest Florida Chapter * Hurricane Bash 2009 Mote Aquarium, $125-$150. [phone]

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EARS Animal Rescue Sanctuary * Hip Hounds and Cool Cats at the Cabaret Charlotte Harbor, $85. [phone]

Gulf Coast Men's Chorus and Harmony: The Women's Voices of Sarasota * Spring Concert/Cabaret $20. [phone]

Pregnancy Solutions ... Knowing Your Choices * Eighth Annual Walk for Life/Run for Fun Venice Avenue, pledge event. [phone]

Second Chance-Last Opportunity * May Picnic Party [phone]

Take Stock in Children of Sarasota County * Celebration of Hope: Hope Springs Eternal Dinner celebrating graduating seniors. $300/table sponsorship. [phone]

Camp Florida Fish Tales * Children's Art Auction Donation. [phone]

K.I.D.S. By The Sea--A division of H.I.S. K.I.D.S. * Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce $10,000 Putt Off Contest $5, $10 and $20. [phone], [phone]

SCOPE (Sarasota County Openly Plans for Excellence) * Annual celebration and Boundary Crosser Award Donation. [phone]

St. Francis Animal Rescue * Birthday Party St. Francis Animal Rescue and thrift store, free. [phone]

Rotary Futures * Venice Sports Hall of Fame Bogey's Restaurant, $60. [phone]

WEDU Channel 3, Florida West Coast Public Broadcasting * Speaking of Women's Health Annual daylong event focusing on women's health issues. $50 and up. [phone]

Rotary Futures Comedy Night Venice Art Center, $100. [phone]

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Sarasota Film Society * 11th Annual Gay and Lesbian Film Festival Burns Court and Lakewood Ranch Cinemas, $5/member, $7.50/nonmember. [phone]

PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA BAXTER