Photos From the Meet and Greet in March 2012









Photos of Sarasota





Photos courtesy of Irv Lesser, Sarasota




Photos of Sarasota






Photos by Irv Lesser


Kiev, Russia




Nice Video about Kiev, Russia. It’s called “MiniLook Kiev”


Thanks to the Urbanophile for sharing.


One World Gala March 28, 2012

The Sarasota Sister Cities Association celebrates its second annual One World Award Gala on Wednesday, March 28, as our major fundraising event of the year. The $125 per person Gala will be at Michael’s on East in Sarasota. RSVP before March 23 to Sarasota Sister Cities Association Checks can be mailed to One World Gala, SSCA, 1615 1st St, Sarasota, FL 34236. Those interested in Patron or Sponsor recognition should contact event Co-Chair Bill Wallace at  walljb@comcast.net


On Wednesday, March 28 we will honor one individual and one organization for their outstanding efforts in promoting international relations.  This will be at our One World Gala at Michael’s on East where we will recognize Nick Bollettieri as the individual honoree for fostered exceptional international relationships through our area for individuals, families and communities throughout the world; 
and ORT,
the largest Jewish educational organization in the world, for devotion to educating and elevating disadvantaged children across the globe with skills needed to lead productive lives.

We greatly appreciate those who have made the commitment to attend and those who have advised they are unable to come, but recognized that the One World Gala is our major fund raising event of the year by making meaningful donations to SSCA.  We hope that others of you and perhaps friends that you know have an interest in international relations will still consider attending or making donations to our program.  SSCA is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization. All SSCA funds come from membership fees, fund raising events such as One World, grants and donations.  Contributions are appreciated and are deductible to the extent provided by law. 

In addition, you and your friends need to be aware of the fantastic live auction prizes that will be offered at the dinner.  The major prizes includes five star, romantic trips to three locations including a four day, four night luxury getaway to San Francisco/Napa Valley, with two nights at the Ritz Carlton San Francisco and two nights at Medowood Resort in Napa Valley, which includes airfare and accommodations for two;  a luxurious Floridays 3-bedroom condominium and a $500 gift card for Disney World for a three night weekend; and a day trip to Key West in a private Cessna 414 plane from Sarasota for you and three friends, including lunch for four at Conch Republic Seafood.

Many other valuable prizes will also be part of the live auction at the Gala.  But for now I will highlight the three fantastic trips that are in the auction spotlight: 


Live Auction Package One

Three Night Weekend getaway to Floridays Resort Orlando, with two nights in a luxurious Floridays 3-bedroom condominium and a $500 gift card for Disney Park admission.  Estimated value: $2000.

A favorite Central Florida vacation destination, Orlando is beloved for its theme parks, water parks, shopping malls and world-class dining.

Floridays Resort Orlando is a luxury, all-suite condominium-style resort in Orlando, FL located in the heart of the action in Lake Buena Vista on I-Drive, just a few miles from attractions and steps away from sensational shopping and dining. Floridays Orlando Resort is proud to have been named a TOP 10 Resort (the only one in Florida) by USA TODAY.  In addition, the Floridays Resort Orlando has earned a nearly perfect score, 4.5 out of 5, from TripAdvisor, and received their “Certificate of Excellence” for 2010.  In addition, Floridays been rated #1 of all Orlando hotels. 
Walt Disney World Resort Orlando features 4 amazing parks and amazing experiences for everyone in your family. The Magic Kingdom theme park captures the enchantment of fairy tales with exciting entertainment, classic attractions, backstage tours and beloved Disney Characters and the beautiful Cinderella Castle. Epcot theme park is a feast for the eyes and sprawls across 300 acres—twice the size of the Magic Kingdom-- and is divided into Future World and World Showcase. Disney's Hollywood Studios offers behind-the-scenes glimpses of Hollywood-style action with live shows, thrilling attractions, backstage tours and special events that only happen in this Disney Park dedicated to entertainment. Disney's Animal Kingdom is full of attractions, adventures and entertainment that reflect Walt Disney's dedication to nature and conservation—it’s home to more than 1,700 animals from 250 species and sprawling across 500 acres of lush landscape, Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park is the largest animal-themed park in the world!


Live Auction Package Two

A day trip to Key West in a private Cessna 414 plane from Sarasota for you and three friends.  Includes lunch for four at Conch Republic Seafood. Estimated Package Value:  $4000.

Relax in style in a spacious Cessna 414 on your short trip from Sarasota to Key West,
the southernmost location in the continental United States.  The island offers a tropical blend of azure waters, exotic foliage and adventures to suit everyone. The sun drenched hospitality of Key West will charm you.
Overlooking the Historic Seaport and the Key West Marina, Conch Republic is a beautiful, open-air restaurant offering spectacular waterfront dining. The Conch Republic Seafood Company has daily live entertainment with the best local bands playing an entertaining mix of island style and Caribbean music. The view and the atmosphere combine to bring you the finest restaurant in the Key West.
Offering an eclectic mix of Caribbean influenced menu items, Conch Republic’s top team of chefs have put together an expansive menu that features fresh locally caught Grouper, Snapper, and Tuna. The Conch Republic Seafood Company also boasts an impressive Raw Bar with Oysters, Clams, Stone Crab, chilled Key West Pink Shrimp and succulent Royal Red Shrimp.



Live Auction Package Three

Four day, four night luxury getaway to San Francisco/Napa Valley, with two nights at the Ritz Carlton San Francisco and two nights at Medowood Resort in Napa Valley.  Includes airfare and accommodations for two.  Estimated value: $5000

San Francisco is a unique and breathtaking metropolis. From the famous icon of the Golden Gate Bridge to the exquisite art galleries at SFMOMA, the City takes pride in its unrivaled attractions, renowned museums, and its unique neighborhoods which are treasures of its own. Discover the variety of sites, shops, and restaurants that reflect the City's great ethnic and cultural diversity.

At the Ritz-Carlton, find yourself in the heart of San Francisco, just blocks from mainstay landmarks like Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf – but miles away from an ordinary hotel experience. The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco is a palatial and tranquil Moscone Center hotel from which to enjoy the city’s spirited atmosphere and numerous cultural opportunities.

Napa Valley is one of the premier travel destinations in the world. Breathtaking views abound at every turn – mustard in the late winter, picturesque rolling hills planted with vineyards year-round and wineries of every stature dot the landscape. Whether you are wine tasting, dining at renowned restaurants like the French Laundry, pampering yourself with a mud bath in Calistoga, or just enjoying your stay at quaint bed & breakfasts, hotels or resorts ... Napa Valley is your spot of heaven on earth

Meadowood resort in Napa Valley is a true luxury resort in Napa Valley offering golf, tennis, croquet, hiking, swimming, fitness, spa, wine education and a Michelin three-star restaurant dining experience...all on a private 250-acre estate in the heart of the Napa Valley.


One World Gala March 28, 2012


On Wednesday, March 28 we will honor one individual and one organization for their outstanding efforts in promoting international relations.  This will be at our One World Gala at Michael’s on East where we will recognize Nick Bollettieri as the individual honoree for fostered exceptional international relationships through our area for individuals, families and communities throughout the world; 
and ORT,

 the largest Jewish educational organization in the world, for devotion to educating and elevating disadvantaged children across the globe with skills needed to lead productive lives.

We greatly appreciate those who have made the commitment to attend and those who have advised they are unable to come, but recognized that the One World Gala is our major fund raising event of the year by making meaningful donations to SSCA.  We hope that others of you and perhaps friends that you know have an interest in international relations will still consider attending or making donations to our program.  SSCA is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization. All SSCA funds come from membership fees, fund raising events such as One World, grants and donations.  Contributions are appreciated and are deductible to the extent provided by law. 

In addition, you and your friends need to be aware of the fantastic live auction prizes that will be offered at the dinner.  The major prizes includes five star, romantic trips to three locations including a four day, four night luxury getaway to San Francisco/Napa Valley, with two nights at the Ritz Carlton San Francisco and two nights at Medowood Resort in Napa Valley, which includes airfare and accommodations for two;  a luxurious Floridays 3-bedroom condominium and a $500 gift card for Disney World for a three night weekend; and a day trip to Key West in a private Cessna 414 plane from Sarasota for you and three friends, including lunch for four at Conch Republic Seafood.

Many other valuable prizes will also be part of the live auction at the Gala.  But for now I will highlight the three fantastic trips that are in the auction spotlight:  

Live Auction Package One

Three Night Weekend getaway to Floridays Resort Orlando, with two nights in a luxurious Floridays 3-bedroom condominium and a $500 gift card for Disney Park admission.  Estimated value: $2000.

A favorite Central Florida vacation destination, Orlando is beloved for its theme parks, water parks, shopping malls and world-class dining.

Floridays Resort Orlando is a luxury, all-suite condominium-style resort in Orlando, FL located in the heart of the action in Lake Buena Vista on I-Drive, just a few miles from attractions and steps away from sensational shopping and dining. Floridays Orlando Resort is proud to have been named a TOP 10 Resort (the only one in Florida) by USA TODAY.  In addition, the Floridays Resort Orlando has earned a nearly perfect score, 4.5 out of 5, from TripAdvisor, and received their “Certificate of Excellence” for 2010.  In addition, Floridays been rated #1 of all Orlando hotels. 
Walt Disney World Resort Orlando features 4 amazing parks and amazing experiences for everyone in your family. The Magic Kingdom theme park captures the enchantment of fairy tales with exciting entertainment, classic attractions, backstage tours and beloved Disney Characters and the beautiful Cinderella Castle. Epcot theme park is a feast for the eyes and sprawls across 300 acres—twice the size of the Magic Kingdom-- and is divided into Future World and World Showcase. Disney's Hollywood Studios offers behind-the-scenes glimpses of Hollywood-style action with live shows, thrilling attractions, backstage tours and special events that only happen in this Disney Park dedicated to entertainment. Disney's Animal Kingdom is full of attractions, adventures and entertainment that reflect Walt Disney's dedication to nature and conservation—it’s home to more than 1,700 animals from 250 species and sprawling across 500 acres of lush landscape, Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park is the largest animal-themed park in the world!


Live Auction Package Two

A day trip to Key West in a private Cessna 414 plane from Sarasota for you and three friends.  Includes lunch for four at Conch Republic Seafood. Estimated Package Value:  $4000.

Relax in style in a spacious Cessna 414 on your short trip from Sarasota to Key West,
the southernmost location in the continental United States.  The island offers a tropical blend of azure waters, exotic foliage and adventures to suit everyone. The sun drenched hospitality of Key West will charm you.
Overlooking the Historic Seaport and the Key West Marina, Conch Republic is a beautiful, open-air restaurant offering spectacular waterfront dining. The Conch Republic Seafood Company has daily live entertainment with the best local bands playing an entertaining mix of island style and Caribbean music. The view and the atmosphere combine to bring you the finest restaurant in the Key West.
Offering an eclectic mix of Caribbean influenced menu items, Conch Republic’s top team of chefs have put together an expansive menu that features fresh locally caught Grouper, Snapper, and Tuna. The Conch Republic Seafood Company also boasts an impressive Raw Bar with Oysters, Clams, Stone Crab, chilled Key West Pink Shrimp and succulent Royal Red Shrimp.




Live Auction Package Three

Four day, four night luxury getaway to San Francisco/Napa Valley, with two nights at the Ritz Carlton San Francisco and two nights at Medowood Resort in Napa Valley.  Includes airfare and accommodations for two.  Estimated value: $5000

San Francisco is a unique and breathtaking metropolis. From the famous icon of the Golden Gate Bridge to the exquisite art galleries at SFMOMA, the City takes pride in its unrivaled attractions, renowned museums, and its unique neighborhoods which are treasures of its own. Discover the variety of sites, shops, and restaurants that reflect the City's great ethnic and cultural diversity.

At the Ritz-Carlton, find yourself in the heart of San Francisco, just blocks from mainstay landmarks like Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf – but miles away from an ordinary hotel experience. The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco is a palatial and tranquil Moscone Center hotel from which to enjoy the city’s spirited atmosphere and numerous cultural opportunities.

Napa Valley is one of the premier travel destinations in the world. Breathtaking views abound at every turn – mustard in the late winter, picturesque rolling hills planted with vineyards year-round and wineries of every stature dot the landscape. Whether you are wine tasting, dining at renowned restaurants like the French Laundry, pampering yourself with a mud bath in Calistoga, or just enjoying your stay at quaint bed & breakfasts, hotels or resorts ... Napa Valley is your spot of heaven on earth

Meadowood resort in Napa Valley is a true luxury resort in Napa Valley offering golf, tennis, croquet, hiking, swimming, fitness, spa, wine education and a Michelin three-star restaurant dining experience...all on a private 250-acre estate in the heart of the Napa Valley.