Dennis Kotaska

10th Annual Downtown Sarasota Craft Fair

2013-05-15T23:10:00Z

Saturday, May 18, 2013 starting at 10:00am to 5:00pm

FREE

The show will be at the beginning of Main Street downtown Sarasota, overlooking the bayfront. It will on Gulfstream Avenue, from Cocoanut Avenue to Main Street and will continue from Main Street to the Square.

A wonderful family event featuring more than 100 of the nation's best crafters. Homemade baskets, leather goods, personalized pet products, homemade soaps, jewelry and much more.

A Green Market complements the weekend with plants, orchids and kettle corn.

Sarasota Realtors ~ Terri & Dennis Kotaska

San Marco Plaza Farmers Market

2013-05-15T23:05:00Z

More than 35 local farmers and vendors will be selling their goods, flowers, pottery, seafood, herbs and much more.

Every Friday and Saturday thru June 15, 2013. 9:00am to 2:00pm

Located at San Marco Plaza, 8215 Natures Way, Bradenton

Extraordinary Artwork on Main Street, Lakewood Ranch

2013-05-10T23:20:00Z

C.A.R.E Art Across the Spectrum ~ May 11th ~ Main Street, Lakewood Ranch

Join us for a celebration of extraordinary artwork created by exceptional children. Various art mediums will be highlighted on a walk through beautiful Main Street in Lakewood Ranch. The proceeds will directly benefit the Center for Autism Resource and Education. CARE has provided a range of educational programs, resources and support to families facing autism or related conditions in our community for over 15 years.

Recycling Tips

2013-05-08T19:47:00Z

We all know we should do more to save the planet by recycling today we are offering some different suggestions for recycling. These are for items that may not be part of your everyday recycling plan.

Carpet: if you are installing new carpet go to www.CarpetRecovery.org to find out what you can do with your old carpet.

Cell Phones: Did you know that fewer than 20% of all cell phones are recycled each year? Visit www.GoWirelessGoGreen.org to find charities accepting cell phones.

Crayons: Did you know that you can transform your child's used crayons into new ones? Visit www.CrazyCrayons.com where you learn more about the National Crayon Recycle Program.

Shoes: Donate shoes in decent condition to www.GiveShoes.org

TV's: Visit a local Office Depot to purchase a Tech Recycling Box, you can put your old TV in the box and return it to the store. Visit www.OfficeDepot.com and search tech recycling for more details and participating locations.

Wine Corks: Create flooring and wall tiles out of your wine corks. Visit www.Yemmhart.com for more information.

You will find great recycling ideas of all kinds at www.Earth911.org

Happy Recycling,

Dennis & Terri

Terri Kotaska Joins RE/MAX Alliance Group

2013-04-30T23:02:00Z

Realtor Terri Kotaska has joined the Sarasota office of RE/MAX Alliance Group as a team member with Broker-Associate Dennis Kotaska, one of the top 3 percent of RE/MAX agents worldwide.

Terri brings to the team an impressive background as a sales and marketing executive for new homes and condominiums in Chicago and Florida, generating $19.2 million to $30 million in individual sales annually.

Her achievements earned her four Diamond Awards, the highest sales award presented by the Chicago Home Builders Association.

During her 26-year career, Terri advanced to Director of Sales for a regional Chicago area home builder, where she was responsible for 350 to 400 home sales and led a 22-member sales team. Later, as Director of Sales for the Central and Southwest Florida Region for a multi-state real estate developer, she was responsible for $101.8 million in annual sales volume for three communities.

Read full press release and learn more about Terri.

Teri can be reached at (941) 907-8207 or email her.

Sarasota Property Sales Highest in 8 Years!

2013-04-25T16:07:00Z

The March 2013 Sarasota Board of Real Estate figures are out and WOW what a month!

The number of properties sold in March 2013 was the highest since August 2005. 887 units sold in March!

To continue the good news the median price for single family homes is $210,000 which is an impressive increase! The median price for condos has fluctuated considerably over the past several years, at the lowest point being $127,000 in July 2010; however for March 2013 the figure is $182,000.

Currently Sarasota has an inventory of 3 months for single family homes and condominiums; typically our inventory level is 12 to 18 months!

Supply and demand will cause prices to rise if builders cannot catch up with demand.

To read the full report, visit my website and click on SAR REPORT on the lower right side of the home page.

Are you curious about your home and neighborhood value? Contact us and we can provide you with the answers.

Sarasota's First Whiskery Festival

2013-04-16T21:20:00Z

Friday, April 19 at 7:30pm

Michael's On East Ballroom and Catering, 1212 S. East Avenue, Sarasota

Tickets: $75

Sarasota's first whiskey festival will be held at Michael's and will feature over 100 fine Scotch, Irish and American whiskies will be available for tasting. Small group seminar classes will be lead by distillers and brand ambassadors.

Package sales will be permitted on site, allowing guests to purchase and take home their favorite selections.

A true connoisseur level event.

More information.

Lakewood Ranch

2013-04-16T21:00:00Z

Lakewood Ranch continues to be a premier community in our area. A master-planned community that includes nine villages offering housing options that range from townhomes to custom estates.

The residents all have varied reasons for living within Lakewood Ranch, however some of the most often stated comments concern the wide variety of restaurants, from gourmet to family-friendly options; the A-rated schools; unique shops and boutiques; hospital and medical center as well as 3 different masterfully designed golf courses. With over 150 miles of sidewalks and trails, community parks and lakes there is something for everyone.

Here is an ariel view of Lakewood Ranch.

Lakewood Ranch is a great place to call home, contact me and I will help you find your dream home at Lakewood Ranch.

Dennis

Homes for Sale in Sarasota

FREE Wine Tasting

2013-04-16T20:45:00Z

Join Katy Rose Olive Oils, on Main Street at Lakewood Ranch for FREE wine tasting on Friday, April 19 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm.

Hors d'oeuvres, extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars.

There will be a 15% discount on all individual oils and vinegars with any wine purchase and special case & half case discounts on any mix of oils, vinegars, and wines.

More information, call Don or Gale, 941-907-0306

Lakewood Ranch April Events

2013-04-04T18:54:00Z

A premier community with something fun and exciting always happening, Lakewood Ranch is just that community. World-class festivals at your door step.

Main Street Events for April

April 5 * Music on Main * Free concert * 6:00pm - 9:00pm

April 7 * Tour de Cure 2013 * The American Diabetes Association’s signature cycling event. Details

April 13 * JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes * Registration starts at 9am – Walk starts at 10am * Walk 5K or 1 mile option * Register here

Additional Events In & Around Lakewood Ranch

Florida Winefest & Auction Presents The Florida Wine & Balloon Festival * April 5 – 7

· The Balloon Glow Dinner: Friday, April 5, 2013 at 6:30pm Tickets & Info

· Smokin’ Hot Cigar Dinner & Balloon Glow: Saturday, April 6, 2013 at 6:30pm Tickets & Info

· Sip & Soar: Sunday, April 7, 2013 1:00pm – 4:00pm Tickets & Info

· Balloon Festival Grounds – Fun for everyone with upscale arts and craft vendors, gourmet food trucks, tethered balloon rides (weather permitting), beer & wine tent, continuous music, kids zone & car show. Free Parking! Tickets

o Public viewing of Balloon Glow (weather permitting) Saturday evening

o Public viewing of Balloon Launch (weather permitting) 7:15am on Saturday and Sunday

· Balloon rides – details and tickets

April 20 * Sidewalk Astronomy

* A wonderful family event! A location is set up and everyone can view the best of what happens to be visible. (monthly event)

Looking for a home in Lakewood Ranch? Contact Dennis.

Farmer's Market * Lakewood Ranch

2013-04-01T18:35:00Z

A wonderful community event, ideal for the whole family and a great way to get out and experience the community while shopping and supporting local farmers and vendors.

Products from more than 35 local farms and vendors as well as live entertainmnet under the clock tower at San Marco Plaza. You will find fresh seafood, cut flowers, coffees, pottery, herbs and much more! The event also benefits the Humane Societ of Manatee County. Come out and adopt a grateful pet!

When: April 5, 2013 * Market opens at 9:00am

Location: 8209 Natures Way, Lakewood Ranch

Top Producing Agent for 2012

2013-03-26T18:42:00Z

Re/Max Alliance Group is proud to announce the top-producing agents for 2012.

The Platinum Club is awarded to Only 3% of all Re/Max Associates Worldwide.

Congratulations Dennis G. Kotasak for being among the top 3%!

Sarasota County – You are Healthy!

2013-03-22T17:43:00Z

Sarasota County has been ranked among the healthiest and slimmest among other Floridians, this is the fourth consecutive year for this ranking!

The county placed fifth in the state on an annual survey of health and well-being by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, which assesses counties throughout the United States.

The survey looks at a number of variables, including access to recreation, crime, drinking rates, obesity, fast food availability and morbidity.

The top county in the state is St. Johns, Manatee County is number 21, and the last of the 67 counties is Union.

Sarasota County residents enjoy quality parks and recreational facilities, access to quality health care and preventative screenings – these features help our county to remain healthy. Recently the county has launched “Healthy Sarasota County” to work with child care centers, schools, medical facilities and work sites on issues such as smoking and obesity.

To come up with the 2013 County Health Rankings and Roadmaps, researchers examined data from sources such as the U.S. Census, state vital statistics and Medicare claims.

Congratulations Sarasota Residents!

Sarasota Real Estate

Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market

2013-03-22T17:11:00Z

A wonderful community event, ideal for the whole family and a great way to get out and experience the community while shopping and supporting local farmers and vendors.

When: March 29, 2013 * Market opens at 9:00am

Location: 8209 Natures Way, Lakewood Ranch

On the brighter side #2

2013-01-19T23:40:00Z

Patrick Dougherty: Sculptor
SMOA ARTmuse Program
January 7-26, 2013 on the grounds of the historic Sarasota High School

To see photo updates on the progression of Dougherty's piece on the front lawn of SMOA, please visit our Facebook page.

Acclaimed Sculptor Selected for Ringling College’s
Sarasota Museum of Art/SMOA “ARTmuse” Program

Internationally renowned sculptor Patrick Dougherty weaves large-scale architectural forms from trees, twigs, vines, and other natural materials. In January 2013, the artist will spend three weeks in Sarasota creating one of his unique sculptures on the grounds of the historic Sarasota High School and future home of the Sarasota Museum of Art/SMOA.

Wendy G. Surkis, president of Sarasota Museum of Art/SMOA, a division of Ringling College of Art and Design, has announced that renowned sculptor Patrick Dougherty will be in Sarasota for SMOA's 2013 “ARTmuse” program, January 7-26, 2013.

His imaginative monumental sculptures made of trees, twigs, vines, and other natural materials can be seen around the world. During his three-week Sarasota project, the artist will build a site-specific installation on the grounds of the historic Sarasota High School, which will become the future home of the Sarasota Museum of Art/ SMOA. Surkis says the public will have many opportunities to view the artist at work—and watch his creation unfold and evolve. She encourages people to stop by the high school to see the work in progress.

“This is a remarkable opportunity for our community,” says Surkis. “Patrick has exhibited his work around the world; we're thrilled that he is coming here for SMOA. It’s an example of the fresh ideas SMOA will be bringing to Sarasota." Surkis adds that it's "pure joy to watch his creations come alive as he bends, twists and cajoles tree branches into large, dreamlike architectural forms that invite people to explore, wonder and wander through his amazing environments."

Born in Oklahoma in 1945, Patrick Dougherty was raised in North Carolina and studied art history and sculpture at the University of North Carolina. Combining his carpentry skills with his love of nature, Dougherty began to learn more about primitive techniques of building and to experiment with tree saplings as construction material.

In 1982, his first work, "Maple Body Wrap," was included in the North Carolina Biennial Artists’ Exhibition, sponsored by the North Carolina Museum of Art. His work quickly evolved from single pieces on conventional pedestals to monumental scale environmental works, which required saplings by the truckloads. Over the last 30 years, he has built over 230 of these works, and become internationally acclaimed.

Dougherty has received numerous awards, including the 2011 Factor Prize for Southern Art, North Carolina Artist Fellowship Award, Pollock-Krasner Foundation grant, Henry Moore Foundation Fellowship, Japan-US Creative Arts Fellowship, and National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship. Princeton Architectural Press published a major book, "Stickwork," about the artist and his work in 2009.

For more information about Patrick Dougherty, visit http://www.stickwork.net.

_______________

SMOA will be Sarasota’s first art museum devoted to modern and contemporary art. It's slated to be a dynamic destination for exhibiting innovative visual art of the 20th and 21st centuries. The museum will interweave exhibitions, educational programs and community outreach initiatives to engage a diverse audience and serve as a stimulating hub for creative discovery and discourse.

Together, Ringling College and SMOA will transform the former Sarasota High School, a landmark building listed on the National Register of Historic Places, into nearly 60,000 square feet of exhibition space, a 110-seat, multi-purpose auditorium, sculpture court, indoor/outdoor café, classrooms and studios, educational resource and meeting spaces. According to Surkis, this new use is history-making in its own right.

“The building will regain its stature as one of the area’s most significant and recognizable structures," she says. "The reinvention of this building, which includes a glass structure, iconic in its modernity, invokes the past, the present and the future. The rebirth of the high school is exhilarating."

SMOA’s ARTmuse programs bring renowned artists and museum professionals to our region. According to Surkis, "They share their creative journey and impart a deep understanding of who they are, what they do and how they do it." Surkis adds that these distinguished visitors give the public, “unique and meaningful learning experiences in an up-close-and-personal setting. Our enlightening programs provide Sarasota art enthusiasts a sense of what’s to come once SMOA is up and running.” Previous visiting artists have included Lesley Dill, Janet Echelman, Judy Pfaff and Seth Randal.

This year's Patrick Dougherty corporate sponsor is PNC Wealth Management. "As Sarasota's first museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art, the Sarasota Museum of Art will captivate and inspire countless imaginations," says R. Scott Collins, senior vice president, wealth director of PNC Wealth Management. "In addition, it will be a significant economic driver for Sarasota County. This magical blend of visual beauty, artistic inspiration, and economic acceleration piqued our interest at PNC Wealth Management, and we are very proud of our role as the leading corporate sponsor of SMOA."

Dougherty will participate in SMOA's 2013 “ARTmuse” program, January 7-26, 2013. A celebratory first event, the "SMOA Inaugural Bash," is Sunday, January 20, 2013, 6 p.m.-10 p.m., on the grounds of the historic Sarasota High School. The public is invited to meet the artist, enjoy libations and cuisine from The Sarasota-Manatee Originals, and enjoy the stirring sounds of Tampa's premier dance band, Ace Factor. Tickets start at $125. For tickets and more information about this event, call 941-309-0118 and specify SMOA Inaugural Bash. For information about sponsorship and benefactor opportunities, contact Mary Lee Richey at 941-309-4732.