- December 1, 2024
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After the battering Sarasota County took with three back-to-back hurricanes, the fate of a Sharky's on the Pier reopening was water-cooler chatter.
With the help of dedicated employees and volunteers, Sharky's moved tons of sand, cleaned house, re-stocked and opened just in time to host the Children First 17th annual Flip Flops & Fashion event Oct. 30 with some 360 guests in attendance.
The energy and excitement was more palpable and colorful than usual due to the cancellation and date changes that are happening with many Florida events. The weather was a perfect 80 degrees with a low dew point, but the wind was blowing a steady 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph keeping the sides of the venue tent pulled tightly down.
Happily, it was another sold-out event raising funds to provide services for children and families. Established in 1961, Children First is Sarasota County's exclusive provider of the Head Start program.
Co-chairs of the event were Georgia Anderson, Brenda Belsito and Emma Kate Sylvestri.
Children First VP of Philanthropy, Jessica Rogers, gave a warm welcome to the crowd.
"At Children First, we focus on how we can be most resilient, especially in times of adversity," Rogers said. "We are so thrilled that our partners, sponsors and volunteers chose to join us by literally moving all the obstacles that we faced to ensure an amazing 17th annual Flip Flops and Fashion."
Dazzling the guests with her easy effervescence and wide smile, Krystel Beall introduced the models as she described the clothing worn by men, women, children and an infant. All fashions and accessories are provided to the models and carried by Bealls.
"Considering the recent circumstances in our community from hurricanes, this year's event feels extra special, and it is energizing to focus on something fun, philanthropic and intentional," Beall said.
MLB fans were happy to see former Baltimore Orioles center fielder Jeremy Shelby and his wife, Alysha back out on the Flip Flop & Fashion runway. Together with their children, daughters Ashyr and Alyza, and son, Jersey, the family delighted all.