News Briefs 03.17.11

+ Kiwanians pledge $120,000 for art studio
The Kiwanis clubs of Sarasota have made a five-year, $120,000 commitment to build the children’s art interactive studio at the Cancer Support Community Florida Suncoast in Lakewood Ranch.

The new 11,142-square-foot studio will help children face their cancer issues and will be designed to be an optimal healing environment through the combination of art, design and nature.

“We are thrilled and honored by the generosity of the Kiwanis clubs of Sarasota, particularly the team of former Lt. Governors of Division 18N, who believed the programs we offer in therapy and support are a vital component in the healing process for those dealing with cancer,” Cancer Support Community CEO Carl Ritter said.

For more information on the Cancer Support Community, visit www.cancersupportsuncoast.org.

+ Children’s fund honors volunteers
The Children’s Guardian Fund honored more than 450 local Guardian ad Litem volunteers at its annual Appreciation Luncheon at the Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club March 11.

“These wonderful and dedicated volunteers are the eyes and ears of the judge,” Fund President Alan Quinby said. “They work to protect the interests of more than 1,000 local children who have been removed from their homes because they were abused, abandoned or neglected.”

+ Backyard Getaway seeks support
East County-based business Backyard Getaway is seeking the support of other businesses and individuals for a project benefiting Haile Middle School.

The business is planning to construct a pond and garden area at the school and also is collecting funds for the mural portion of the project. Organizers have only been able to raise about $600 of the $1,500 needed.
Anyone interested in helping financially or volunteering should contact Lisa Burns at Backyard Getaway, [email protected] or 752-POND.

+ Local JROTC cadets to be honored
The Sarasota-Manatee Chapter of the Reserve Officers Association will host a Junior ROTC ceremony today to honor 12 cadets from area high schools.

The students will be decorated with ROA medals for outstanding leadership, scholarship and performance in their respective junior classes and also will speak in response to the recognition.

The ceremony will be held at 6 p.m., March 17, at the Lakewood Ranch Holiday Inn, 6231 Lake Osprey Drive.

+ Burglars target Palm-Aire home
Manatee County Sheriff’s Office deputies are investigating a burglary that occurred in the Palm-Aire community March 13.

A sheriff’s office report states unknown person(s) forced entry into a home in the 8100 block of Timber Lake Lane at about 2 p.m. by prying open the front door.

Multiple pry marks were observed near the doorjamb.

The burglar stole about $20,000 in items.