The Civilized Life in Sarasota: Education Foundation's Evening of Excellence

As with every year, the theme of the Education Foundation's Evening of Excellence was inspired by a work of art from the previous year. This year's theme of My Blue Heaven, was created from last year's Blue Child, by Holly Mastay.

A charming legacy - this year's event chair was Taylor Tollerton Collins, the daughter of Jim and Susan Tollerton. Jim was the first board chair of the Ed Foundation 25 years ago and now Taylor is also serving on the board. I like to see that!

The atrium of Michael's On East was buzzing and filled to capacity by the 400 attendees all jostling to see the 25 works of art. It was such a joy to watch the student artists interacting with everyone and watching all the faces of the proud parents. Nothing could be sweeter!

I so enjoy seeing all the creativity of the best of the best of Sarasota County students. Their work is inspiring. Jimmy Dean was the auctioneer and the top bid of the evening was Katya Young's painting, Homeland Captivity for $3,500. There were several works of art I would have liked to take home! This is a terrific event to start or add to your art collection.

This delightful event is always on my schedule. You should plan on attending next year!

Others seen in the crowd were Carolyn Robinson, John and Fran LaCivita, Leslie Loftus, Yen Reed, Dr. Carol Probstfeld, Darlene Wedler, Michael and Nancy Longworth, Shirley and Jim Ritchey, Peter and Katie Hayes, Mike and Evelyn Bryant, Peg McKinley and Chuck Surman, Tom and Sherry Koski, Caroline Zucker, Tricia Fulton, Dr. Donal O'Shea, Dr. Arthur and Lynn Guilford, and on and on.