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During the SHS Grand Reunion, we hope you will see the scale model for the adaptive reuse of our alma mater. Ringling College of Art and Design plans to transform our building into the Visual Arts Education Center featuring adult education programs and the Sarasota Museum of Art (SMOA).

As a landmark building on the Historical Registry, the exterior will retain its original gothic appeal. But a glance at our old Sailors Log confirms hat the interior will be breath-takingly different: a double-height grand gallery to provide an overlook; bridges for visual access between the first and second floors; magnificent galleries; a 110-seat auditorium; educational resource and meeting spaces; a gift shop; outdoor sculpture garden, a caf� and more.

���� Unlike other prominent landmarks such as Lido Casino and Smack�s Drive-In, SHS will proudly stand to remind future generations of how important it was (and is) to Sarasota history. The plan for its continued use for educational purposes is important to our community � economically and culturally - and deserves our moral and financial support.

���� Because the uniqueness of the adaptive reuse plan offers SHS alumni an opportunity to maintain a continued presence, several of us have proposed the new caf� on the renovated first floor be named the Sailors Caf� in memory of all the students who have attended SHS.We cannot replace the old Smacks Drive-In as a gathering spot for Sailors going to or from the beaches, movies, dances, and especially football games. But what we aspire to achieve is a hub for all generations of SHS alumni and their progeny. The Sailors Caf� will feature a high-tech display to forever preserve and showcase our treasured Sailor history. By sharing our nostalgic memories with visitors and residents alike, we will be able to provide a greater appreciation of the school�s history and why growing up in Sarasota was so unique. For SHS alumni, the Sailors Caf� will be special.It will be a historic place to have lunch with family and friends.It will be a place for us to meet and reminisce with former classmates of times past, and not have to wait until class reunions occur.

���� We have received preliminary approval to name the Sailors Caf�, but funds are still required to complete renovations of SHS, and a pro-rata share of $750,000 for our naming opportunity.We hope that you share our commitment of ensuring the preservation of our historic building, and showcasing the Sailor Legacy. There are opportunities for you and your family to be highlighted in this effort as well. Please contact one of the gentlemen listed below to discuss how you can participate, arrange for a tour of the building and the model, or share ideas on how we can meet our goal. Pledges and gifts can be made over a number of years.All contributions are tax deductible.

 

Should you have any questions about the Sailors Caf� or wish to see the actual model of the renovations please contact :

                         

Cope Garrett � SHS 1951, Home: 941-349-9333, e-mail: [email protected]

Robert (Bob) Cobb � SHS 1956, Home: 941-924-5611, e-mail: [email protected]

Walter (Walt) Rothenbach, SHS 1958, e-mail: [email protected]

Robert (Bob) Kimbrough, SHS 1951, e-mail: [email protected]

 

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