What's New At Showfolks in 2004

It is rewarding to announce Showfolks of Sarasota's NEW Web Site is on-line. Please add Showfolks' Internet address http://Showfolks.org to your computer's Favorites address book. It is Showfolks' intention to present interesting content that illustrates credibility and respect earned by professional circus performers, show business entertainers, affiliated executives and support personal. There is the thought to add a "Patronize Our Supporters" web page, within Showfolks' web site, within which supporter's business cards will be illustrated for a reasonable annual donation that is yet to be determined. This seems preferable to generate funds to support web site expenses in lieu of soliciting commercial banners. What might be your thoughts with regard this opportunity? Please share your comments, and ideas, pertaining to Showfolks' web site content via an e-mail message directed to Webmaster@Showfolks.org. The long term success of Showfolks' web site is dependent upon the whole team getting involved.

Your consideration is appreciated, and please know that your input counts!

M. Skip Doyle
Webmaster
Showfolks of Sarasota, Inc.

An impressive 40 Foot Aluminum Flagpole, valued at $2.,200, was donated to Showfolks of Sarasota by Past President Dante Marotto in behalf of Franz "Tihany" Czeisler (Circus Tihany Spectacular). Several Showfolks members came forward with cash donations to cover expense related to installing the flagpole with new rigging and a beautiful United States Flag. Flagpole committee members House Committee Chairman Ed Sheehan, Past President Bob Horne, Director Skip Doyle, and friend of Showfolks Shriner Glen Smith (who volunteered his SUV and trailer), transported the flagpole in one piece from Tihany Plaza to Showfolks (a challenge!) where it was polished for The Flagman to erect it into place. Lighting is being installed by Past President Arthur Grotefent to allow Old Glory to fly proudly 24 hours a day.

During the Spring of 2004, House Committee Chairman Ed Sheehan worked endlessly with a crew of day labor workers to remove years of accumulated debris and overgrown vegetation from Showfolks' landscape. Four 30 yard dumpsters were filled to the brim, and hauled away. Inspection of the exterior storage building determined it had become a haven for undesirable occupants and infested with termites. This building was demolished leaving a solid concrete slab in place for future projects.

Seven roof air conditioning units were inspected, with it being determined that five were inoperable requiring maintenance. Two remaining air conditioning units had been replaced during recent years. New programmable digital thermostats have been installed to automatically shut down systems when not required which is anticipated to reduce electric expenses. An annual maintenance program is being initiated by the House Committee to assist with ensuring uninterrupted comfort levels within Showfolks' Clubhouse.

A new ADT Security System has been installed to further assist in securing Showfolks of Sarasota's historic collections. The new monitoring system allows immediate access to reports via the Internet that illustrate who opened and closed the building on each occurrence, and at what time. New door sensors, and interior motion detectors, have been installed to transmit any breach.

Two new beer coolers were installed to replace one elderly cooler that leaked and no longer operated efficiently. A new bar sink, back bar counters, and various maintenance projects are completed allowing Showfolks' bar operation to become more efficient.

House Committee Chairman Ed Sheehan, Food and Beverage Manager Jerry Stanley, and Past President Arthur Grotefent, have invested endless hours during the Spring and Summer of 2004 imposing severe enemas upon nearly every nook and cranny within Showfolks' historic clubhouse. Drainage systems were revamped, obsolete wiring removed, emergency lighting is being installed, fire extinguishers have been replaced, and the kitchen range hood has been re-certified. Fire regulation requirements are attended to. Kitchen exhaust fans discovered to not be operable have been rebuilt. Obsolete equipment has been removed from the clubhouse and office, and disposed of. Many more projects have been accomplished by several club member volunteers who generously donated their abilities and efforts to assist complete a multitude of tasks. Click here to Tour Showfolk Clubhouse.

There is desire to install an awning resembling a big top, to extend outward from the parameter of the back bar area. A quotation has been received from US Awning Co. who offered to assist in subsiding the cost. The balance to be raised is $1,500. Should you have a desire to make a donation for this improvement, please contact House Committee Chairman Ed Sheehan at 941-358-1535.