For the past 12 years, Sunshine from Darkness (formerly NARSAD Florida) has consistently provided a free community education weekend in Sarasota to shed light on mental illness-related issues. On January 11, the three-day event concluded with the annual Sunshine from Darkness gala at the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota.
The foundation's event committee sought the talents of Phil and Carolyn Babas of Affairs in the Air to create a clean atmosphere with shades of white. The ballroom was draped with strings of pin lights, which added depth to the traditional ballroom chandeliers. On the tables, Tiger Lily Flowers filled ornate silver vases with white hydrangeas accented by bursts of sunshine yellow botanicals.
Attendees were given a look at the local performing arts scene with performances by the Asolo Repertory Theatre, Sarasota Opera, Sarasota Orchestra, and a 1920s number by the Sarasota Ballet. The Big Z Band and juggler Benito Aquilar from the Circus Sarasota were also among the entertainment.
The hotel's catering staff dazzled guests with the signature "sunrise" dessert, brought out by waitstaff sporting whimsical yellow sun-shaped sunglasses. The custom creation featured a chocolate peanut butter crunch, caramelized bananas, and salted caramel ice cream.
