December 2017

MAGAZI

N

SC

E

E

60 NE

FO

U

YEARS

ND

5 ED 19

7

THE PHIL ANTHROPY ISSUE FE AT U R I NG

THE

Giving BOOK

E MAGAZ

SC

E

FO

IN

60 EN

YEARS

UN

DED 19

57

205 NORTH ORANGE AVENUE, SUITE 102, SARASOTA LICENSE: CGC 1510640

|

941.366.7280

|

MGBBUILT.COM

LIVE YOUR DREAM

You’ve earned the right to build the home of your dreams. Your vision requires a unique design and finishes that match your lifestyle and taste, requiring a master craftsman’s experience and touch, and a builder that knows how to execute every last detail. That’s where we come in. Building unique, sustainable custom-tailored homes is something our team has been doing for the past 11 years in Sarasota and the surrounding islands and waterways – with a combined team experience of 150 years of fine custom home building. Our portfolio of homes is as individual as our clients, designed to make dreams come true. Check us out at MGBbuilt.com and call to discuss building your dream.

“IF YOU CAN IMAGINE IT, WE CAN BUILD IT.” STEVE ELLIS & GRANT CASTILOW

1970

CALDWELL & CO. ESTABLISHED

1988

KELLY CALDWELL JOINS COMPANY

1993

SERVICES FIRST CLIENT AND FORMS ORIGINAL BOARD

1999

ESTABLISHES SARASOTA OFFICE PRESENCE

2013

CELEBRATES 20TH ANNIVERSARY

1980

ROLAND CALDWELL BEGINS THE INVESTMENT NEWSLETTER

1992

CHARTER PROCESS BEGINS

1994

MOVES INTO VENICE OFFICE

2009

OPENS OFFICE IN DOWNTOWN SARASOTA

2015

BUILDS HEADQUARTERS IN VENICE

TODAY

Caldwell Cares continually through volunteerism and support to area not-for-profits and organizations in the communities where we live, work and play.

Caldwell Trust Company

Forever adhering to our founding principle which is to give each client one-on-one attention and care.

TRUSTS & ESTATES

Ensuring your wealth fulfills your goals for the future.

INVESTMENTS

Growing your wealth and making it work for you.

RETIREMENT

Preparing you for tomorrow on your terms.

Caldwell Trust Company helps families and individuals achieve their financial goals, perfect their personal life legacies, preserve family harmony and provide peace of mind. We’re personal, traditional and independent. We’re here earning your trust each and every day for generations to come.

ctrust.com I 941-493-3600 I Sarasota I 1561 Main Street, 34236 I Venice I 1400 Center Road, 34292 A LEGACY OF TRUST FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION. NEARLY A BILLION IN ASSETS UNDER MANAGEMENT.

FROM

Tatiana Palnitska’s LATEST COLLECTION DECEMBER 7 TH & 8TH TRUNK SHOW

364 ST. ARMANDS CIRCLE SARASOTA | 941-388-1974 DREAMWEAVERCOLLECTION.COM

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK CUSTOMER PARKING BEHIND STORE

The golden image / 30 s. palm ave., sarasota, fl 34236 mymkdesigns.com / (941) 364-8439

CONTENTS features

96

98

48 MAKING A LASTING IMPACT The Community Foundation of Sarasota County

By Ryan G. Van Cleave 53 THE GIVING BOOK Non-Profit Giving Guide

96 KINDNESS DOES ROCK

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

98 FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE DECKS THE HALLS with two must-see musicals

By Steven J. Smith

48 COVER Night-time photo of downtown Sarasota by John Revisky 10

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Be Informed Be Entertained Be SCENE scenesarasota.com

TRUST. KNOWLEDGE. SERVICE. For over 30 years The Plumbing Place has worked hard to earn the trust of our customers and contractors. And with over 150 years of combined experience, our friendly and knowledgeable staff delivers exceptional customer care.

“Everything about the place is beautiful, we should call it the pluming boutique, so clean, organized, big selection of items, friendly staff…” - RANDA Z.

Shop our 6,000 sq.ft. Showroom for the Best & Most Extensive Collection Anywhere.

JOHN SMITHMAN, OWNER 5678 FRUITVILLE ROAD | SARASOTA, FL 34232 941.378.5678 | THEPLUMBINGPLACE.COM

CONTENTS departments

109

22

SOCIAL SCENE 22 THE LIST December Events Calendar PARTY PICS 30 Bacchus on the Beach Sarasota Orchestra Brunch

109

32 USFSM Brunch on the Bay 33 Horne & Moon Scholarship Social 34 SCLO Share the Light Luncheon

INSIDER 37 THE FIND Accessories to ring in the New Year 119 InHealth Plump up the Volume? Is the Over-Filled Face Becoming a Fashion Trend?

By Dr. Sumeet Bhanot

110

PHILANTHROPY

99

42 Finding Felt Needs Bob & Joan Geyer’s passionate mission: the new Vincent Academy

By Ryan G. Van Cleave 44 The Plymouth Harbor Foundation: A Legacy of Benevolence, Fellowship and a Zest for Life

By Steven J. Smith

ON THE TOWN 103 SCENES FROM AN INTERVIEW Hear & Now: Dr. Herb Silverstein and Mandy Harvey

By Gus Mollasis 120 REAL TALK People, places and things with Sheryl Vieira

ART & CULTURE 110 BEST SEATS

36 37 12

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Performing Arts Calendar

113 GET INSPIRED Cultural happenings brought to you by the Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County 117 LITERARY SCENE Ryan G. Van Cleave reviews three books with three-word titles

L–R: Brian Carter, CPA - Partner | Steve Parent, CPA - Partner | Melodie Rich, CPA - Director Wade Sansbury, CPA - Partner | Tommye Barie, CPA - Partner

Audit | Accounting | Consulting | Tax For 99 years our goal has been to build relationships through commitment, quality and dedication to our clients.

There’s no better time to see how we can help your organization exceed your goals, overcome challenges and take advantage of unique opportunities!

941-747-4483 | mjcpa.com 1401 Manatee Ave W | Suite 1200 | Bradenton, FL 34205 Partners & Directors Not Pictured: Becky Fingerle, CPA - Director | Dianne Kopczynski, CPA, CIA - Partner Ken Thomas, CPA - Partner | Trey Scott, CPA - Director | Alison Wester, CPA - Partner

RETHINKING RETIREMENT RISK Why investing in stocks pays off

Conventional wisdom encourages investors to decrease the amount of stocks in their portfolio as they near retirement. But what happens when the “bonds are better� axiom no longer rings true?

In our low interest rate environment, the yields of bonds and other fixed income investments like Treasuries and CDs have plummeted. With the purchasing power of bonds considerably eroded, retirees relying on these investments struggle to beat inflation and are forced to draw more from their nest egg to cover expenses. By contrast, stocks can offer superior portfolio returns, give investors a steady income through dividends and provide the added benefit of increasing share value. A greater allocation of stocks means that retirement savings can last longer and investors can enjoy a higher withdrawal rate. And in downturns, cash reserves and investments in quality growth companies that succeed in a wide variety of markets can help ensure rapid recovery.

Put simply, the overweighting of bonds has under delivered. Enlisting the assistance of a financial advisor who follows a conservative growth strategy can help investors navigate through heightened volatility and make sure their retirement nest egg goes the distance.

YOUR BRIDGE TO FINANCIAL SECURITY J.L. Bainbridge & Company, Inc., is a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) that has helped clients build wealth for more than 35 years. Our investment philosophy is centered on identifying major American growth companies with a proven record of double-digit growth earnings and exceptional financial strength that may achieve a superior annually compounded return.

J.L. BAINBRIDGE & COMPANY, INC.

Discover the difference with a Registered Investment Advisor.

It should neither be assumed that future results will be as profitable nor that a loss could not be incurred.

1582 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 | (941) 365-3435 | (800) 899-5171 | www.JLBainbridge.com

from the executive editor

“Learn to light a candle in the darkest moments of someone’s life.

Be the light that helps others see; it is what gives life its deepest significance.”

- ROY T. BENNETT, THE LIGHT IN THE HEART

W

WHEN I THINK ABOUT THE AMAZING PLATFORM I have to drive a conversation through stories we cover in Sarasota Scene, I have always thought long and hard about what that conversation should be.

Yes, my content decisions may get tweaked a bit from year to year, but the one thing I always want to do is share stories of people who are angels of positive change, organizations whose missions are vital, and programs and initiatives that change lives.

I am not one who cares to offer stories of doom and gloom or what to add to your burger to make it the greatest thing ever. My primary intent is to offer our readers content that is educational and inspirational and raises awareness about local needs. Let’s call it “mindful content.” Becoming more mindful of the important issues we face is the first step toward building a stronger community. You can’t do something to help a need you don’t know exists. That is the conversation that excites me most. And, no other issue all year long does this better than our December Philanthropy issue.

In service to the fact that philanthropy is very alive and well in Sarasota, we proudly present our triennial non-profit guide - The Giving Book. As audited readership reports show, Sarasota Scene readers are the most philanthropic in town, giving more than $11M each year to charities. I encourage you to read each story, select the organizations that speak the most to you, and get involved. We also explore the impact of The Community Foundation of Sarasota County, and feature locals such as Bob and Joan Geyer, whose generosity to their felt needs of the community makes a significant difference in the lives of many.

As always, we have our monthly list of upcoming charity events and galas. Our online calendar of charitable events is one of the best places to keep track of what’s happening.

It also gives nonprofits the ability to submit events throughout the year.

With 2018 about to begin, I can assure our loyal readers that Sarasota Scene will continue delivering stories that capture the spirit of our ever-evolving community philanthropy in an effort to help elevate our mindfulness of the needs we face. For me, that is the most fulfilling job I have as executive editor of this incredible sixty year publication.

julie@scenesarasota.com

16

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

DID YOU KNOW? In the U.S., total charitable donations rose to a new high of $390.05 billion.

• Individual giving grew nearly 4%, driving the rise in total giving.

• Contributions to all nine major philanthropy subsections increased for the sixth time in the last 40 years.

• Giving by corporations increased by 3.5%, totaling $18.55 billion.

SOURCE: GIVING USA (GIVINGUSA.ORG)

A DIVISION OF DIMMITT AUTOMOTIVE GROUP

Ultra Luxury Vehicle Sales Center

FIND THE LUXURY VEHICLE OF YOUR DREAMS. VISIT OUR SHOWROOM TODAY.

1518 State Street | Sarasota, FL 34236 941.256.2825 | www.TheSarasotaStudio.com

E MAGAZ

SC

60

F

O

I

E

Vol. 60

EN

N

MORE THAN JUST RUGS!

YEARS

UN

DED 19

No. 12

57

CEO/President Ronald Milton Publisher/Executive Editor Julie A. Milton Account Executive Lauren Jackson Linda Krysinski Art Director Lauren Thomas Communications Specialist & Editorial Assistant Bobbilynn Hollifield Distribution Dick Jackson Contributing Writers Sue Cullen Bobbilynn Hollifield Jacqueline Miller Gus Mollasis Steven J. Smith Ryan G. Van Cleave Sheryl Vieira Cover Photographer & Photo Director John Revisky Contributing Photographers Nancy Guth Kelly Kearns

Rugs As Art ...And More!

6650 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34231

941.921.1900 www.rugsasart.com 18

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

443 John Ringling Blvd. Ste. #F | Sarasota, FL 34236 941.365.1119 | Fax: 941.954.5067 | scenesarasota.com RJM Ventures LLC, dba SCENE Magazine of Southwest Florida publishes 12 issues a year. Address editorial, advertising and circulation correspondence to the above address. Sufficient return postage and self-addressed, stamped envelope must accompany all manuscripts, artwork and photographs submitted if they are to be returned or acknowledged. Publisher assumes no responsibility for care of return of unsolicited materials. Subscription price: $12.95 per year, $19.95 for two years.

All contents copyrighted. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.

SARASOTA’S NEWEST HOTEL DESTINATION. DEVOTED TO CREATIVITY, ARTISTIC LUXURY, AND EXPERIENCES THAT AROUSE THE IMAGINATION.

DE BU T ING T H IS S E A S ON

ArtOvationHotel.com 941.316.0808

AN EXCEPTIONAL, LUXURIOUS NOT-FOR-PROFIT CARE FACILITY

MEDICAL CARE & SUPERVISION

SPECIALIZED REHABILITIATION SERVICES

• Accepts Medicare, Insurance and Private Pay Patients

• Through the innovative “Bounce Back” program, you can Rehab, Recover, Return Home®

• With its 120-bed Skilled Nursing facility, the amenities and services are exceptional

• Interdisciplinary Team of Experienced Professionals

• Personal Physicians

• State-of-the-Art Therapy Equipment

• 24/7 RN, LPN and CNA Staffing

• Evidence-based care & Individualized Treatment

• Licensed Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapists

• Physical, Occupational & Speech Rehabilitative Therapies

• Registered Dietician and Nutritional Management

• Case Management to Maximize Benefits

• Social Services

• AJs Fitness, an onsite, outpatient Center, helps you focus on Flexibility, Strength Training, Balance & Endurance

• Full-Time Activities Director

License # SNF130471051

EOE

CALL OR STOP BY FOR YOUR PERSONAL TOUR 5381 Desoto Road | Sarasota, FL 34235 | 941.355.6111 | www.hawthornevillageofsarasota.com

social SCENE

2–3

3

Siesta Beach 10:00 a.m.

Fresh local seafood and live music Free admission.

Michael’s on the Bay at Selby Gardens 5:00 p.m.

Tickets: $250 941.366.5293

3

5

2nd Annual Siesta Key Seafood & Music Festival

Feast Upon the Fields

The LIST

DECEMBER EVENTS CALENDAR

Longino Ranch 12:30 p.m.

Conservation Foundation’s annual outdoor luncheon.

Tickets: $125 conservationfoundation.com

PICK YOUR FAVORITES! The holiday season is here, and nobody does holidays better than Sarasota. Perhaps it’s our way of compensating for the lack of cold weather and snow, or maybe we just know how to have a good time. In any case, we’re in for a busy season, as there’s no shortage of parades, parties, and presents in the foreseeable future. Holiday lights, visits from Santa, galas galore – it’s time again to do December, Sarasota-style!

22

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Designing Women 2017 Gala “Jazzy Nights”

2017 Embracing Our Differences Annual Luncheon Michael’s On East 12:00 p.m.

15th anniversary luncheon featuring keynote speaker Dr. Rachel Shelley, Florida’s 2017 Principal of the Year.

Tickets: $50 embracingourdifferences.org

6

Holiday Luncheon Selby Gardens 11:00 a.m.

Featuring White House decorator and author Coleen Christian Burke.

Tickets: $75 - $150 selby.org

ACTUAL SARASOTA PLASTIC SURGERY PATIENT

Real Plastic Surgeons.

REAL PATIENTS. REAL RESULTS. DR. BRAUN H. GRAHAM | DR. DAVID L. MOBLEY DR. SCOTT J. ENGEL | DR. BRIAN M. DERBY 2255 S. TAMIAMI TRAIL SARASOTA, FL 34239 | 941.366.8897 SARASOTAPLASTICSURGERY.COM

social SCENE

6

Venice Lights of Friendship Venice Friendship Center 5:30 p.m.

Third annual event benefiting the Venice campus of the Friendship Center.

Tickets: $150 friendshipcenters.org

Annual Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade of Lights

6

LWR Women’s Club Fundraiser Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club Ballroom 6:00 p.m.

20th anniversary charity event featuring dinner, dancing, jazz and cabaret.

Tickets: $65 maryleedanahy@gmail.com

7

7–8

8

8

Sarasota Opera House 8:00 a.m.

An all-day event that showcases exceptional international speakers, astounding artistic intermezzos and culinary delights.

Tickets: $425 PINCexperience.com

Historic Spanish Point Thursday & Friday evenings through December.

Annual festival featuring homestead buildings decorated for the holidays, lighted paths and holiday music.

Admission: $12 historicspanishpoint.org

Bird Key Yacht Club 11:00 a.m.

“Phashions of the Opera,” a Sarasota Opera Guild fundraising event for the Sarasota Opera.

Tickets: $65 sarasotaopera.org/sog

6:00 p.m.

Family-friendly holiday activities, food, music, and lighting of the Christmas tree.

Free admission lakewoodranch.com

PINC.Sarasota 2017

7

Holiday Splendor at The Ringling The Museum of Art, Circus Museum and Ca’d’Zan 5:30 p.m.

Supporting Toys for Tots and featuring holiday music & performance by local students.

Admission: Free with one unwrapped toy per guest Without a toy: $15 Adults/ $5 Children ringling.org

Holly Days and Mangrove Lights

8

CPL Ben Kopp Celebrity Golf Classic Legacy Golf Club at Lakewood Ranch 9:30 a.m.

Benefiting Operation Renewed Hope Foundation and Goodwill Manasota; dinner and an awards ceremony to follow.

Registration: $125 experiencegoodwill.org

SCENE

8

Cause 4 Fashion Luncheon Grand Foyer of Van Wezel 11:30 a.m.

Annual fashion show & luncheon benefiting Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s.

Tickets: $85 - $125 parkinsonsneurochallenge.org

sponsored events!

5

LA MUSICA SONATA A DUE The Field Club 6:00 p.m.

The first event of La Musica’s 32nd season, featuring a recital by noted musicians.

Tickets: $150 lamusicafestival.org

24

33rd Annual Poinsettia Luncheon

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

17

JFCS GALA The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota 5:00 p.m.

Annual celebration and performance by the Sarasota Orchestra.

For ticket info, contact Monica Caldwell at mcaldwell@jfcs-cares.org

Holidays Around The Ranch LWR Main Street

9

13th Annual Porsches in the Park St. Armands Circle 10:00 a.m.

Free admission

9

Sarasota Ballet: Brunch with Clara & the Nutcracker Michael’s On East 11:00 a.m.

Tickets: $50 - $75 events@sarasotaballet.org

9

Annual Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade of Lights City Island 6:00 p.m.

A parade of 20+ decorated boats travel from City Island to Centennial Park, under the Ringling Bridge and across Bayfront park.

social SCENE

Women’s Day with Aly Raisman DECEMBER 4 AT 11:30 A.M. Michael’s On East Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee’s annual women’s luncheon featuring Aly Raisman, two-time team captain of the gold medal winning U.S. Olympic Gymnastics Team and most famous Jewish athlete.

Tickets: $80 + a $100 minimum donation to the Federation KMullins@jfedsrq.org

11

Private Home 6:30 p.m.

Second in this season’s dinner series, highlighting the production of Shakespeare In Love.

Tickets: $250 asolorep.org/starrynights

6:00 p.m.

Whiskey tastings, luxury watches, exotic cars, auctions and casino-style games.

Supports the Child Protection Center.

Tickets: $175 (941) 365-1277 ext. 120 myaw@cpcsarasota.org

12

21 – 30

Asolo Rep’s Starry Night Dinner

9th Annual Loveland Christmas BBQ Venice Community Center 6:00 p.m.

Tickets: $75 lovelandcenter.org

13

Ignite Education The Westin, Sarasota 10:30 a.m.

Education Foundation’s brunch & bubbles awards celebration honoring Sarasota County teachers.

Tickets: $85 edfoundationsrq.org

15

Men, Whiskey, Watches & Wheels Private airport hangar, 8070 15th St E, Sarasota, FL

Lights in Bloom Marie Selby Botanical Gardens 6:00 p.m.

Illuminated gardens; visits from Santa, games, activities, music.

Tickets: $25 selby.org

New patient appointments are available within

one week!

Whether it be robotic surgery, MRI fusion prostate biopsy, or HIFU, our physicians at

Florida Urology Specialists are always at the forefront of new

technologies to improve patient care.

Setup your appointment today!

(941) 309-7000

31

New Year’s Eve at Selby Gardens 8:00 p.m.

Black-tie event. Hors d’oeuvres, dinner, live music and dancing.

Champagne toast and fireworks at midnight.

Tickets: $250 selby.org

1 S. School Ave, Suite 200, Sarasota, FL 34237 FLUrologySpecialists.com A Division of 21st Century Oncology, LLC DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

25

social SCENE

It’s all about you…

Designs for your lifestyle

UPCOMING sponsored events JANUARY 13, 2018 Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation Hospital Gala The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota 6:00 p.m.

Tickets: $400 smhf.org

JANUARY 27 Catholic Charities Ball The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota 6:00 p.m.

Honoring Bishop Frank J. Dewane & benefiting Catholic Charities.

Tickets: $300 nmuth@ccdis1.org

JANUARY 27 Circus Gala Ulla Searing Big Top at Nathan Benderson Park 6:30 p.m.

Annual gala to benefit Circus Arts community outreach programs.

Tickets: $250 CircusArts.org

CABINETRY, COUNTERTOPS & CLOSETS Showroom: 1035 N. Lime Avenue Sarasota 941.953.3240

Affinity-Kitchens.com 26

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

TIFFANY FARRELL PRESIDENT

V IS IT S C EN ES A R A S O TA . C O M For a full lineup of holiday events and the latest social scene party pics

If you are looking for an inspired lifestyle... ...we are playing your tune.

SarasotaBay Club Luxury Retirement Living On Sarasota Bay Come For A Visit and Be Inspired – Call Linda Ware or Dana Moe (941) 552-3284 (941) 366-7667 • SarasotaBayClub.com • 1301 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida

Expect More from Your Law Firm.

At Icard Merrill, we aren’t content with the status quo. For more than 60 years, we have been giving each client our undivided attention and the full benefit of our legal skills and experience. Our attorneys are experienced in a wide range of fields, from business, commercial and construction litigation to family law, employment law, personal injury, real estate, securities law, land use, probate, and tax law. We listen when you talk, and make achieving your goals our primary concern. Expect more. Discover Icard Merrill.

941.308.7178 • icardmerrill.com Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte & Lee Counties

Award Winning Memory Care!

At HarborChase of Sarasota, you’ll discover a host of innovative health services and customized programs that will enhance your health and happiness, now and into the future. We proudly offer friendly supportive services that simply make life easier and more enjoyable.

HarborChase offers: • 24-hour compassionate assistance • Chef-prepared dining options • Generous amenities • Innovative health services • Scheduled transportation *Limited time only

Ask us about our Memory Care Special!* Call now!

(941) 451-7983

5311 Proctor Road, Sarasota, FL 34233 (941) 451-7983 www.HarborChaseSarasota.com

Assisted Living and Memory Care

ALF #12753

social SCENE

PARTY pics

Steve & Laura Duric

PEOPLE ON THE TOWN

BACCHUS ON THE BEACH The 7th annual Bacchus on the Beach Stone Crab Celebration & Winemaker Auction welcomed over 350 attendees on the beach at the Resort at Longboat Key Club. More than 100 selections of wine from winemakers and distributors were offered as party-goers danced, mingled, and indulged in mounds of stone crab and specialties prepared by the Club’s chefs. Private winery tours, specialty wines and five-star dining packages were auctioned; the proceeds benefit Mote Marine and its programs.

Bill & Marina Schmidt

Anthony Kob & Sandra Rios

Photos by Nancy Guth

Larry & Lorraine Ziff

Harry Leopold & Audrey Robbins

SARASOTA ORCHESTRA BRUNCH Composing the Future Brunch, held on November 5, 2017, featured performances from several of the Youth Orchestra’s ensembles. All proceeds from the event support the Youth Orchestras.

Hugh Steele, Lois Stulberg and Olga Tucker co-chaired the event.

Russ & Susie Golden, Julie Eisele & Stan Grabarek

Photos by John Revisky

Betty Schoenbaum & Lois Stulberg

Joe McKenna & Jerry Bilik Tammy & Michael Taaffe

30

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

The DANCING Collection’s creations reflect techniques found in ancient jewelery. Yellow gold balls with surfaces scratched by the diamond, drops of milky aquamarine, creamy pink opal and rutilated quartz and arranged in warm and long lines with artistic references to the art nouveau era. The white gold balls and moonstones capture the primeval breath of a purifying rain...milky colored ovals, translucent stones which look like dew drops. The designs create a cadence that repeats the infinite echoes heard in nature.

ST. ARMANDS

DOWNTOWN

482 JOHN RINGLING BLVD | SARASOTA, FL 34236

1301 MAIN STREET SUITE #101 | SARASOTA, FL 34236

(941) 388-1331

(941) 387-8000

MCCARVERMOSER.COM

social SCENE

PARTY pics

Lea, James & Lexington Buchanan

USFSM BRUNCH ON THE BAY USF Sarasota-Manatee celebrated its 24th annual Brunch on the Bay with more than 800 donors, alumni and supporters in attendance. Nearly 20 of the area’s finest restaurants and caterers prepared cuisine for the event, held under tents on the USFSM campus. The annual event supports scholarships for USFSM students, this year bringing in about $315,000 through ticket purchases, table sponsorships and direct gifts. To date, Brunch on the Bay has added over $1.3 million to the university endowment and generated over $1,000,000 in scholarships.

PEOPLE ON THE TOWN

Ben Ellinor, Mark Keller, Michelle Crabtree, Larry Davenport

Pat Moreo, Karen Holbrook, Professor Donald Wood

Erin & Rob Guzzo

Photos by Nancy Guth

Dr. Kameron & Bart Hodgens

LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL YOUR HOME?

Denise Nicole

THE MEI TEAM

Denise Mei Broker-Associate GRI, CLHMS, CIPS

941.685.3198

DeniseMei@michaelsaunders.com

1605 Main Street, Suite 101 | 941.951.6660 32

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Nicole Mei Realtor® GRI, CLHMS

941.400.0540

NicoleMei@michaelsaunders.com

social SCENE

PARTY pics

HORNE & MOON SCHOLARSHIP SOCIAL Hosts John & Amanda Horne and Stewart & Trudy Moon welcomed hundreds of guests to the 4th annual Horne & Moon Scholarship Social at the Air & Energy warehouse in downtown Bradenton. The Moulin Rouge, Paris-themed evening, which included catered dinner, dancing and a silent auction, raised funds for need-based scholarships for local adults to return to school. Photos by Nancy Guth

PEOPLE ON THE TOWN

Jo & Stan Rutstein

Stewart & Trudy Moon, Amanda & John Horne

Ted & Cassandra Holmes

Bob Richardson & Bill Murphy

Stewart Moon Jr.

NEW SARASOTA TOWNHOMES OVER 80% SOLD OUT

Resort-style community pool and cabana

THIS MONTH ONLY, RECEIVE SPECIAL SAVINGS AND HOA DUES PAID FOR 1 YEAR* Discover how great living is at Sarasota’s The Enclave at Forest Lakes, before the opportunity is gone.

Executive Townhomes from the upper $200s

789

SARASOTA DOWNTOWN

789

41

LIDO KEY BEACH

S BENEVA RD

• New Townhomes with 1,388 SF - 1,807 Sq.Ft. • Gated entry, resort-style pool & cabana • Low maintenance, Sarasota lifestyle • Lock up and be at the beach in a few minutes • Premier location close to Siesta Key & Downtown

LONG BOAT KEY

780

SALES CENTER

MATTAMY HOMES THE ENCLAVE AT FOREST LAKES

WEBBER ST

758

SIESTA KEY

75

3637 Tin Cup Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34232 2 decorated models open daily

Interested in other Sarasota communities? Explore Harmony at Lakewood Ranch and Renaissance at West Villages at MATTAMYHOMES.COM/TAMPA To learn more or schedule your personal tour call 813-563- 0349 * HOA Fees will be paid for 12 months and value will not exceed $2,604. Valid on new contracts for select homes only, that are signed 10/1/17-11/30/17 and close upon completion. All pricing, availability and plans subject to change without notice. Please see a Mattamy Homes New Home Counselor for additional details. Terms and conditions apply. E.&O.E. Builder CGC #1524054

DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

33

social SCENE

PARTY pics

Valerie Powell-Stafford & Lee-En Chung

PEOPLE ON THE TOWN

SCLO SHARE THE LIGHT LUNCHEON Second Chance Last Opportunity (SCLO) celebrated its 22nd annual Share the Light Luncheon. The event, which honored community champions Lee-En Chung and Valerie Powell Stafford, included testimonials from former SCLO clients as well as an auction. Proceeds from the event support SCLO’s mission to provide education and counseling services to underserved community members.

Suzy Farbman & Sharon Haggard

Photos by Nancy Guth

Helen McBean & Carol Poteat-Buchanan

April Glasco & Justin Mosely

Hillary Steele & Renee Hamad

Give the Gift of Live Theatre Gift Certificates Available!

(941) 748-5875 | ManateePerformingArtsCenter.com 34

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Where Casual Ambiance

Meets Authentic Italian

5104 Ocean Blvd. | Siesta Key | 941-349-1423 | cafegabbiano.com OPEN DAILY 5PM-10PM. TASTING MENUS AVAILABLE SUNDAY TO THURSDAY.

TRENDS & FASHION THAT WOMEN LOVE!

Siesta Key 941.349.6644 St. Armands 941.388.5239 36

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

insider

The FIND

WE’RE RINGING IN THE NEW YEAR DRIPPING IN GOLD, SILVER AND JEWELS...UNIQUE ACCESSORIES THAT ARE SO FABULOUS YOU’LL WANT TO KISS THEM AT THE STROKE OF MIDNIGHT!

Limited edition acrylic necklace in either black, red or blue ovals by Paris designer Lauren Guillet. $495 Gorgeous champagne on ice purse with handcrafted floral accents in a metallic motif. $298

DREAM WEAVER COLLECTION 941.388.1974 DREAMWEAVERCOLLECTION.COM

Wow the crowd with these stunning yellow cushion diamond halo earrings with white diamonds in platinum. $32,900 DIAMOND VAULT JEWELERS 941.921.4016 DIAMONDVAULTJEWELERS.COM

FOXY LADY WEST 941.388.5239 FOXYLADYSARASOTA.COM

Gucci Virginia Leather silver pumps with removable embellished heart and stiletto heel. $1,150 SAKS FIFTH AVENUE - 941.364.5300 SAKSFIFTHAVENUE.COM

From Gucci’s Dionysus collection, this 18K yellow gold cuff bracelet has three tiger heads with tsavorite eyes and a green enamel interior. $8,300

Starfish pendant crafted in 22K yellow gold plating flaunts sparkling round crystal stones. $248 RUE - 941.373.6333 - RUESRQ.COM

MCCARVER & MOSER JEWELERS - 941.388.1331 MCCARVERMOSER.COM

DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

37

Sabal Trust Company Growth Powered by

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE FUELS EXPANSION

of Sarasota Office

By Sue Cullen | Photo by John Revisky

Highly personalized client service delivered by a committed team of credentialed and experienced professionals has powered the growth of Sabal Trust Company and led Florida’s largest independent trust company to add Susan Hines as a new, yet very familiar, face to its senior leadership.

Hines, an attorney with more than 20 years of trust administration experience, joins the Sarasota office as a Principal along with Lowe Morrison and Ron Koepsel who founded the office 10 years ago. “Susan is a very seasoned professional with a strong trust administration background and is a great addition to our team,” Morrison said. “With her background, Susan brings tremendous depth to our team. She has extremely strong people skills in addition to her planning and administration capabilities, and that is valuable to us. Our business is built on long term relationships and a strong commitment to our clients and each other is key to our success. The professionals on our team are all significant owners of the company who treat Sabal as their own business, because it is.”

Hines is well known locally within the business community

and in philanthropic circles for her active community service. So is her husband, Charles, who serves as a Sarasota County Commissioner.

Following graduation from business and law school at the University of Florida, she worked as an estateplanning attorney for the Icard Merrill law firm and then began her career in trust administration in 1994.

Two years later, she joined a large national trust organization where she met Morrison and Koepsel.

“We all have known each other for more than 20 years and have a high level of respect for one another.

Ron is also an attorney with extensive experience in trust administration and estate settlement as well as insight into tax planning, which is an advantage for clients,” Hines says. “Ron and I focus on the trust administration side and work closely with our clients to ensure that their financial and estate

plans are in order and their personal needs taken care of. Lowe is a Chartered Financial Analyst with over 30 years of portfolio management experience, and he handles the investment strategy for each client.”

At Sabal Trust (941.556.0760/ sabaltrust.com), which has offices in Tampa, St. Petersburg and The Villages in addition to Sarasota, all clients have a dedicated team of professionals assigned to them. Each team includes two Principals, one of whom will always be one of the company’s nine Chartered Financial Analysts (CFA), and a relationship manager. “Our Relationship Managers, Joyce Gallagher and Sandy Sacks, are both Certified Trust and Financial Advisors,” Hines said. “They both have day-to-day contact with our clients. Our clients truly value that our team is watching after them, their spouses and their loved ones. We are

Seated L to R: Ron Koepsel and Lowe Morrison Standing L to R: Susan Hines, Sandy Sacks and Joyce Gallagher

small enough to provide a high level of personal service and local decision making, but large enough to have the needed checks and balances.”

Along with Sabal Trust’s personalized, team-based approach to client care, its proven strategy for investment management, which focuses on judicious growth and systemic risk management, has helped the company grow to more than $2 billion in assets under management.

The company has a major commitment to investment management. As well as having nine CFAs on staff, Sabal Trust has a dedicated Investment Research Division. “Ours is a disciplined and conservative strategy focused on dividends, interest and capital preservation over time,” Morrison said. “It is a time-proven strategy that centers around growth of income over the long term.”

In addition to serving clients, Sabal Trust has a long history of active involvement professionally and philanthropically within its communities. The Sarasota team often partners with the Gulf Coast Community Foundation and the Community Foundation of Sarasota County and is active within the Southwest Florida Estate Planning Council where Koepsel served as a Past-President. He has also been a trustee with the Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Foundation and is on the board of the Southwest Florida Planned Giving Council.

Morrison is a trustee of the Frank E. Duckwall Foundation, which makes grants to non-profits that improve the quality of life in the Tampa Bay area. He also is on the board and is Chair Emeritus of Mote Marine Laboratory and serves on the Advisory

Council of Tampa Bay Watch.

Hines is the President Elect of the Sarasota County Bar Association’s South County Division and has worked extensively with several children’s organizations, including the boards of both Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Sarasota. She has also taught financial literacy through Junior Achievement and is a graduate of Leadership Sarasota. “At the end of the day, this is our community and our company and we treat it that way. We answer our own phones and return calls by the end of the day,” Morrison said. “The result is that the majority of our new business comes from word of mouth testimony from our clients and direct referrals from professionals in the community who have had successful experiences with us, and we deeply appreciate it.”

POPS SERIES

TM

THE DOO WOP PROJECT

JANUARY 19 & 20

This concert follows the evolution of Doo Wop. Conducted by Jack Everly.

BEST OF BROADWAY

MARCH 9 & 10

Featuring Norm Lewis and Sierra Boggess, best known for starring in Phantom of the Opera. Conducted by Andrew Lane.

THE COTTON CLUB

APRIL 20 & 21

Byron Stripling, guest conductor and soloist

Featuring trumpet virtuoso, vocalist, showman and conductor Byron Stripling in a celebration of jazz music.

2017-2018

Tickets from $35

SEASON

40

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

941-953-3434 SarasotaOrchestra.org SCENE Magazine

1 7

t h

T 3 0

H

A N N U A L

A N N I V E R S A R Y

starring

BARRY MANILOW Friday, February 16, 2018 5:00 P.M. For tickets and sponsorship opportunities call 941-366-5578 or visit

VWFOUNDATION.ORG Cocktails by the Bay | Dinner Reception Live Performance by Barry Manilow After-Party

Reserve Your Tickets Today!

Proceeds help support the Van Wezel’s Schooltime Performance Program, community outreach and special needs of the Hall.

JAGUAR SARASOTA EVENTS OF DISTINCTION

l

ATTENTION TO DETAIL

Joan Lieberman EVENTS OF DISTINCTION

philanthropy

FINDING

felt

NEEDS

BY RYAN G. VAN CLEAVE | PHOTO BY JOHN REVISKY

FOR JOAN AND BOB GEYER, IDENTIFYING A FELT COMMUNITY NEED OF HELPING ADULTS LIVING WITH MENTAL ILLNESS HAS TURNED INTO A PASSIONATE MISSION – THE NEW VINCENT ACADEMY.

W

hen Sarasota Scene’s editor asked felt the need of the community is, explains Joan. For the Geyers, they me to write an article on the philanfelt that adults living with mental illness are an underserved population thropy of Joan and Bob Geyer, the that deserves support. interview took place at Vincent Vincent Academy—named after artist Vincent Van Gogh, whose mental illness caused him to commit suicide at age 37—is a facilAcademy (1910 Glengary Street, Sarasota). The moment I got there, the reason for meeting in that ity where individuals experiencing mental illness receive vocational location became quite obvious. training and ongoing support. Joan explains, “We know that this model The Geyers have contributed greatly to this comworks. People with mental illness can and do get back to work if you create an environment that supports them.” munity, both personally and through The soft opening of Vincent Academy occurred this the scope of charitable giving by “PEOPLE WITH past June. They already have nearly 35 members, though Sunset Auto Group, where Bob serves as President. In the past two MENTAL ILLNESS CAN after the official November 9th grand opening, that number should climb far higher. The expectation is to years alone, they supported Legal AND DO GET BACK have twice that number of members by the end of the Aid of Manasota, Loveland Village, first year of operation.

Hope Family Services, Sheriff’s TO WORK While there’s significant interest in the academy, it’s Activities League, Education FounIF YOU CREATE AN not a fit for everyone. All potential members must have dation’s Teacher of the Year, and many, many more organizations.

ENVIRONMENT THAT a referral from a mental health professional or social worker. The type of mental illnesses that are typically the Their latest philanthropic focus, SUPPORTS THEM.” best fit for the academy’s resources are schizophrenia, the new Vincent Academy, is one depression, PTSD, and bipolar and anxiety disorders. The they’re proud of in a way that only academy’s idea of “recovery through work” can’t happen parents tend to be. Their pride unless the member is willing to make an effort. It might be a long, slow goes well beyond the funds they provided for the process, but it’s a process. Some members come in every single day.

8,500-square-foot building and the surrounding Others work to build up their stamina and ability to concentrate, with areas and properties that will include a future wellmany never having held a steady job in their life. Getting ready for the ness center, job center, and garden area. It extends rigors of the actual workplace is difficult. But everyone I saw during my to the fact that the academy’s mission connects with visit was interested, engaged, and focused. They wanted to be there. their passion for helping others.

Joan notes that one member who recently took a vacation with her Their pastor once asked: “What community need family told her parents after a few days that “I have to get back. I’m do you see that’s not being adequately met?” He recmissing school.” That’s the level of commitment being shown. ommended that people put their efforts where they 42

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Take Rima Ghalieh, for example—another current member. “I graduated from high school in 1987,” she explains. “But I couldn’t do college. I had a hard time.” A few months ago, a job counselor told her about Vincent Academy and she jumped at the chance to be part of it. “It’s a great opportunity. A second chance at life. They’ve told me that from what I’m accomplishing here, I could be an administrative assistant.” In addition to working the cash register at the academy’s cafeteria and learning about graphic design, camera use, and computer software through the buffet of high-end technology available to members, she’s currently working as a courtesy clerk at Lucky’s while she finishes her training at Vincent Academy. Her goal? “I’m hoping one day to get a job in computers. Thank God I found this school.”

Bob is incredibly proud that the academy is succeeding, but even more so that there’s sustainability. “That’s so important with a 501(c)(3),” he says. With 40 years in the automotive industry and nine more in banking, few know better than he does about the importance of a sustainable financial plan.

Part of that sustainability comes from state funding provided by the Central Florida Behavioral Health Network. Part comes from tuition that members pay, though it’s a sliding scale that adjusts to their financial situation. Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s generous group of donors provide much of the rest. Joan adds, “Many of our donors stress the importance of Vincent Academy being a program that is embraced and supported by the entire community. We completely agree. It’s impressive how much interest the community has shown.”

While the academy is clearly a vital part of the Geyer’s philanthropic efforts, they also own three fully-furnished, centrally-located duplexes which foster kids who are aging out of the system can affordably rent through the Springboard Program. Everyday Blessings Inc., an agency that provides high-quality care to foster sibling groups, serves as the landlord. It also helps the residents create and maintain life skills needed to succeed, from taking out the trash on Monday, to staying in school or keeping a job, to paying bills. This kind of opportunity can be life changing, as it was for a young woman who moved in after living beneath a bridge in Sarasota. “She moved out this past Saturday,” Joan proudly adds, knowing that a change like this is additional progress towards full independence.

Helping others become independent and successful at both work and life—whether it’s foster children or adults with mental illness—is something the Geyers are committed to. From their perspective, it’s simply addressing the felt need of our community.

F O R M O R E IN F O R M AT IO N

about Vincent Academy, please visit vincentsrq.org or call 941.921.9930.

F O R M O R E IN F O R M AT IO N

about Gulf Coast Community Foundation, please visit gulfcoastcf.org or call 941.486.4600.

DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

43

philanthropy

THE Plymouth

Harbor Foundation

A Legacy of Benevolence, Fellowship and a Zest for Life

BY STEVEN J. SMITH CADE SIBLEY, CHAIR OF THE PLYMOUTH HARBOR FOUNDATION, said although the 5-year-old foundation provides support for compassionate care to residents of its retirement community who at some point may outlive their assets, it also goes a lot further than that — including seeing to the wellbeing of its own employees.

“Our family consists of both the employees and the residents,” Sibley said. “And it’s important to support them both equally. We provided ten scholarships for our employees in 2016 totaling $15,500. Also, last year one of our employees had a house fire and the foundation, along with the generosity of residents and staff, provided her and her family with housing assistance, living essentials, and clothing.”

44

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

She added another service provided by the foundaLocated at 700 John Ringling Blvd. on Sarasota Bay, Plymouth Harbor started out in 1966 as a vision of The tion is a little-known volunteer effort that serves the Rev. Dr. John Whitney MacNeil, who saw it as a progreater Sarasota community.

“We have staff, residents, and board members who progressive, interfaith residential community for retired clergy and teachers. Today, its campus attracts national vide over 11,000 hours of service annually in our commuand international residents who have made significant nity with nearly 90 different groups such as the All Faiths contributions to Sarasota’s arts, culture and education.

Food Bank, Meals On Wheels, and Resurrection House,” In 2016 alone, gifts to the foundation topped $4 milSibley said. “Not many people know about that.”

Sibley spent her career in financial planning, running lion — $2.525 million in current gifts and pledges and her own practice for 35 years. $1.546 million in deferred giving.

She and her husband, Whit, According to its website, members moved to Sarasota from Denver of the resident population, their “We have staff, residents, seven years ago. Now retired, families, employees and philanshe said her main job as chair of thropists in the broader comand board members who the Plymouth Harbor Foundation munity have donated over $12 provide over 11,000 hours of is to raise funds to support its million to perpetuate Plymouth programs, funds and initiatives.

Harbor’s mission of providing the service annually in our As the daughter of a resident who most positive aging experience has lived in Plymouth Harbor for possible. community with nearly 90 the last 22 years, she also is a Sibley said The Plymouth member of the Harbor Club Wait Harbor Foundation’s culture of different groups such as the All List — a registry of souls aiming philanthropy is built on three Faiths Food Bank, Meals On to one day live there. pillars of value: benevolence, “It’s a pretty long list of folks fellowship and a zest for life — Wheels, and Resurrection House.” like me,” she said. “Baby Boomers and three funds were established who know eventually they may for these purposes. One is the need assisted care. My father will employee assistance fund, which soon be 97 and I’ve seen what Plymouth Harbor’s philanalso supports a new wellness program called OnBoard, that offers programs and benefits to help educate, thropy has done to not only stabilize his life, but stabilize motivate and reduce stress among employees. The our family’s life, too. That’s why it was so natural for me others focus on resident assistance and a program that to get involved with Plymouth Harbor, as a thank you to provides innovations and enhancements to preserve them for taking care of my parents.”

Plymouth Harbor’s quality of life. Recent improvements Sibley added The Plymouth Harbor Foundation’s include the construction of a new wellness center, the future is “limitless” in terms of the good it can accomrejuvenation of a 105-seat auditorium called Pilgrim plish for generations to come.

Hall, the installation of portable massage chairs and “With the influx of people coming to Florida, people engaging musicians to perform during Sunday brunches. need the services of continued wellbeing and living,” In addition, an array of classes is offered in art, woodshe said. “We need to be able to provide those and I’m finding that people are very generous in this area. working, computer proficiency and the latest medical They are interested in providing themselves — and strides in diseases afflicting the elderly such as Alzheitheir neighbors — with a long, fruitful life, continuing mer’s and Parkinson’s. on in all the pursuits they have. I see a bright future for “We can always build a structure out of bricks and Plymouth Harbor, but it’s not just for the residents. It’s mortar,” Sibley said. “But we also need programs and for the employees, too, whose own families have served classes to help our residents and the outside public, the place for generations.” whom we invite in to benefit from them as well.”

DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

45

Receive a FREE $10 gift card for every $100 worth of gift cards purchased.

Offer good Dec. 1st - 31st.

This Christmas season, trust Morton’s Market to provide the delicious dishes that will make your family’s special moments all the more memorable.

From expertly catered parties to elaborate holiday menus, we put the time, effort and care into each recipe so you can have more time to enjoy the season. Think of us for your fine wines, floral centerpieces and holiday gift baskets too.

Matinee Races Monday thru Saturday 12:30pm

Evening Races Friday & Saturday 7:30pm

50¢ Friday Matinees* 50¢ Admission • 50¢ Bud Beer • 50¢ Hot Dogs & Sodas

Super Saturday $1 Night* $1 Bud Beer • $1 Hot Dogs & Sodas *concession stands only

Clubhouse reservations & more info call: (941) 355-7744 5400 Bradenton Rd. Sarasota 34234

SarasotaKennelClub.com

Live Simulcast Horse & Dog Racing Year Round - Matinee & Evenings

Full Christmas menu available!

Call for details!

Extended Hours: Monday - Thursday 9am - 2am Open 7am Friday thru 2am Monday Vegas Style Games!

Daily High Hand Jackpots State-of-the-art poker room located on the 2nd floor of

Historic Southside Village ∙ 1924 South Osprey Ave. Sarasota ∙ (941) 955-9856 ∙ MortonsMarket.com 46

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

the Sarasota Kennel Club. Live action cash games and tournaments offered daily.

now playing MAINSTAGE

cabaret

Mack the HEISENBERG Knife “Energetic” -Total Theater

BY SIMON STEPHENS

“Impressive arrangements” -Sarasota Herald-Tribune

“Ample humor and wit” -Broadway World

“Carefully pruned comedy” -Time Out Chicago

Pictured: Brandyn Day. Photo credit: Matthew Holler

Sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the State of Florida.

This project is sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cltural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture and the State of Florida.

941.366.9000 �oridastudiotheatre.org

1241 N. Palm Avenue, Downtown Sarasota

lasting

MAKING A

BY RYAN G. VAN CLEAVE

Impact

THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

{ 48

OF SARASOTA COUNTY

When asked to identify the reason for Community Foundation of Sarasota County’s ongoing success in our community, President and CEO Roxie Jerde (pictured next page top right) attributes it to her team’s ability to ask and listen. “By doing so,” she says, “we understand what our donors want to achieve with their charitable giving. We are then able to work with the plethora of nonprofit partners with profiles in The Giving Partner (more than 600+ in our free community database) to achieve the results our donors are seeking. We are also good stewards for donors who have entrusted us with carrying out their philanthropic legacy.”

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

J

erde is quite reasonably proud of the Community Foundation’s steadfast focus on creating impactful results for donors and community-focused initiatives. The annual Season of Sharing community-wide effort, which keeps families on the verge of homelessness in their homes. The Giving Challenge, which has raised over $28 million for deserving nonprofits in our community; the results of the Campaign for Grade Level reading that helps more and more 3rd graders in our most challenged schools to grade level reading; and the Two-Generation Approach, where children and parents together are moving to educational success and financial stability.

That last idea—the Two-Generation Approach— has profoundly changed the way their organization thinks about what they do. Inspired by the Ascend program at the Aspen Institute, the Two-Generation Approach marries the intentions of two major legacy funds at the Community Foundation: Mrs. Jo Bowen Nobbe cared about children and education and Mr. Edward K. Roberts was committed to moving single moms out of poverty. When you put the two intentions together, you have the essence of the Two-Generation Approach. This strategy also resonates with many donors in our community who have generously supported the effort over the years to bolster the impact.

“In the past, the Community Foundation has funded lots of things that were good for kids,” says John Annis, former Senior Vice President of Community Investment. “And we’ve funded lots of things that were good for families. But Two-Gen brought a new way of looking at it that’s fundamentally about intentionality. It’s asking the question: What are we doing to measure outcomes for children AND their parents together?”

One example of the Two-Generation Approach in action is Habitat for Humanity housing, an organization that the Community Foundation has enjoyed a long-standing partnership with. They love the Habitat model, which is building a house, allowing a needy family to

move in and pay the mortgage, and then offer crucial mentoring to support self-reliance as they become homeowners. So when two of the Community Foundation’s donors—Bill and Jane Knapp—wanted to support Habitat, they requested that the Knapps look at this opportunity a different way. The goal wasn’t to ask Habitat to change the rules or modify their program but rather just to connect it with what the Community Foundation was already doing with the families at Alta Vista Elementary, a place where the Community Foundation invests a lot of time, energy, and money to support education.

A teacher’s aide assigned to watch the children in the back of the room during the Habitat information session for Alta Vista parents and families heard the entire presentation and, at the suggestion of principal Dr. Barbara Shirley, applied to be a candidate to receive a home. As a single mom whose daughter had already graduated from Alta Vista, this was a chance to target two generations with one project. Now that DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

49

{

"Allowing students and parents to go to the same school together is an amazing opportunity for both generations."

teacher aide’s family has a beautiful and affordable Habitat house, the daughter’s a senior at Sarasota High School (which is mere blocks from the new house), and that same daughter volunteers regularly and has already been accepted to USF. One project, begun five years ago during that presentation at Alta Vista, has had a huge impact on this entire family—not just for one child. The whole family is far better off.

Jerde adds that “Alta Vista is a shining example of why the Two-Generation Approach of the Community Foundation works so well. It starts with the terrific leadership of Alta Vista’s principal, Dr. Barbara Shirley, who is committed to Alta Vista being a school for the family.” Dr. Shirley spearheaded a partnership with Suncoast Technical College (STC), endorsed by Dr. Todd Bowden (initially in his role leading STC and now as Sarasota County School District Superintendent) to bring educational opportunities to the Alta Vista campus for the parents of students. “Allowing students and parents to go to the same school together is an amazing opportunity for both generations. Credit also goes to the school social workers, funded in part by the Community Foundation, who are able to identify potential candidates for the Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) program and support them as they go through the program.”

To date, the Community Foundation has provided adult learner scholarships and graduated 80+ CNAs. In a community which has such a high demand for health care workers, these graduates are able to increase their family income—often with full-time work that includes benefits. The Community Foundation is especially proud to have two CNAs go on to the yearlong LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) program which will move them up the career ladder. Jerde admits that “my proudest moments are when we hold graduation ceremonies at Alta Vista and I witness the pride shown by the families as the graduates receive their certificates. Most touching is when the words of what it means for the

50

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Alta Vista students to see their mom or dad graduate are read. Never a dry eye in attendance!”

Another Two-Generation Approach success story is how the Community Foundation formed a task force a few years back to support student success in four elementary schools—Gocio, Alta Vista, Tuttle, and Booker—which were the lowest performing schools from a reading proficiency perspective at the time.

Gocio, in particular, had such a high percentage of Hispanic students and families that the Community

Foundation partnered with UnidosNow, a group with the mission of helping elevate the quality of life of the growing Hispanic/Latino community through education, integration, and civic engagement. While UnidosNow put a lot of emphasis on getting 1st generation Latino kids from high school into college, the Community Foundation wanted to start the college conversation younger. Way younger. The idea was to change parents’ thinking from “my kid might be successful at college” to “my kid will be successful at college,” and that message couldn’t come early enough.

The Two-Generation Approach answer was the Families Together program where parents got together at Gocio to talk about their needs and discuss how to help their kids do better in school. It became clear that many parents didn’t feel comfortable at school because of the language barrier and many had had bad school experiences of their own. The solution

was to give support to help them learn or improve their ability to speak English.

They were shown the best ways to navigate the school system.

They learned the right questions to ask their kids’ teachers.

They discovered what rights all parents had.

Now many of those Hispanic parents are joining the PTO and finding ways to participate in school, which includes taking classes of their own.

Luz Corcuera, the Executive Director of UnidosNow, points to Tabita as a Families Together success story. A Mexican mother of two children—one in high school, one at Gocio—she grew up witnessing her own mother suffer from domestic violence. Tabita’s goals were to avoid that future for herself and to help her children receive a quality education. After a year in the Families Together program, she explains that “the program has given me the confidence to venture out to speak and read English. It has given me the information to navigate the education system in the US and a good understanding of what is important at every stage of education. I now participate in the SAC [School Advisory Council] meetings and I am very honored that my voice and opinion count. My two sons are proud of me for learning the language. I also feel privileged to be a mentor to so many women who may be facing an abusive situation at home. I encourage all new parents in the community to take advantage of programs like this. I LOVE the fact that the program takes place in my child’s school.”

The Community Foundation isn’t limited to dealing with issues of education. In fact, of the $33 million they gave out last year, about 1/3 of that was for education.

The rest went to a variety of things, such as supporting local arts organizations and an effort to address the homelessness situation that challenges our community. The Community Foundation’s Season of Sharing effort, now in its 18th year in partnership with the Herald Tribune Media Group, has prevented more homelessness by keeping many people who are stuck in a paycheck-to-paycheck life from losing their home when a setback happens. “The situation would be much more difficult but for the assistance to thousands of families over the years,” says Jerde.

“Knowing it takes $8,000 to get someone back in their home once they become homeless? Spending $1,000 to keep them in their home is a huge economic—plus psychological—savings for our community.”

And then Hurricane Irma, too, created a lot of local and regional needs. The Community Foundation began an Irma Hurricane Relief and Recovery Fund as the storm barreled toward our shores. The Patterson Foundation immediately stepped up with a $250,000 contribution. The Community Foundation’s board also contributed $100,000 to the fund. Jerde notes that community support has totaled an additional $80,000+ so far. “We have a Board-led task force determining the criteria for grants and will soon be rolling out a grant application process for The Giving Partner nonprofits with recovery needs.”

The list of the Community Foundation’s success stories like these goes on and on and on. And that’s because of the great work and commitment to success of people like Roxie Jerde and her dedicated colleagues.

“The future is bright and hopeful,” Jerde promises.

“At the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, we truly believe each of us can be the one to make an impact on another person, a cause, our community. I am inspired every single day by the caring, kind, and committed people who make our community stronger and more vibrant—people who lend a helping hand or share a smile, people who give generously whether it’s a few dollars or many more, people who believe our community needs to be successful for everyone!”

For more information on the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, please visit cfsarasota.org or call 941.955.3000

DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

51

Since 1973...

Cumberland Advisors has been a trusted source for professional, personalized money management.

Our firm manages nearly 3 billion dollars in fixed income and equity accounts for Individuals, Institutions, Retirement Accounts, Non-profits, and Government Entities.

• • •

National firm Four decades of experience Headquartered in Sarasota, Florida

•

Cumberland’s professionals include PhDs, MBAs, 19 Series 65 accredited individuals, CFA® charter holders, and a CFP® certificant

Inquiries and conversation are always welcome!

Communicate with us at info@cumber.com (800) 257-7013 www.cumber.com @CumberlandADV One Sarasota Tower 2 N. Tamiami Trail Suite 303 Sarasota, FL 34236

T e On

Follow us on Twitter @CumberlandADV

ly Nutcracker in Sarasota with Live Music

Celebrate The Holidays With This Beloved Classic!

15 - 16 December 2017 | Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

The Sarasota Ballet Box Office 941.359.0099 | SarasotaBallet.org 52

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Photography Frank Atura

THE

Giving BOOK

A

s Publisher and Executive Editor of

lives of everyone – from infants to the elderly, to the

Sarasota Scene for the past ten years, I

handicapped, to those less fortunate, to the hungry,

have had the pleasure of working each

to the mentally ill.

day with many nonprofits. However, I must admit that

The Giving Book makes it crystal clear that supporting

I rarely sat back and considered the true impact that

community nonprofits on any level provides rewards

many organizations actually have on our community.

that give meaning to our daily lives and strengthens

This changed for me as I read each profile. I could

our community. Please help one or more organizations

clearly understand and visualize the powerful services

that speak to you, and, as many studies show, if you

they provide and the important and inspirational

want to be happier, give more!

purpose of their work. Every day, they touch the

- JULIE MILTON, PUBLISHER

JFCS of the Suncoast

A legacy of embracing the community with care

Left to Right: Heidi Brown, CEO, Oncology Yoga class at HealthFit and Healthy Families, Healthy Children class

JFCS of the Suncoast serves individuals in need at any

approach, and give at-risk youth the tools to succeed

time of life with assistance to increase their ability

at school and on their career paths. They also assist

to thrive independently and improve the quality of

parents with coping skills, care for the caregivers,

their lives. Over 30 years, JFCS has grown into an

help veterans find housing and other assistance,

accredited nonprofit social services agency operating

and empower seniors to remain independent. JFCS’

from 27 community-based locations in six counties

Counseling services are open to the entire community

spanning from Manatee to Collier. “We provide

on a sliding-fee basis. “Services are provided

clients with case management and clinical services

regardless of someone’s ability to pay,” Brown says.

for individuals and families throughout the entire

“We want easy access to our services.” In May, JFCS’s

lifecycle,” says CEO Heidi Brown. “Our wraparound

entire organization received a perfect score during an

services empower them toward self-sufficiency, and

accreditation review by the Council on Accreditation.

we change lives.”

Although the organization got its start more than 30

years ago primarily with support from the local Jewish

Services offered help resolve issues of employment,

community, JFCS continues to help everyone on a non-

homelessness and hunger utilizing a multi-generational

denominational basis.

“We embrace the community with care, and when there is a community need, JFCS fills the gap with the help of community partners.”

54

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

EMPOWERS SENIORS TO REMAIN INDEPENDENT Alzheimer’s Education + Support Senior Outreach Services Mental Health Support Transportation to Agency Programs

HELPS VETERANS FIND HOUSING Operation Military Assistance Counseling + Support Case Management Financial + Housing Assistance

EMPOWERS YOUTH TO SUCCEED Children’s Crisis Team School-Based Programs Specialized Counseling and Social Services Summer Programs Safe Alternative to Out–Of– School Suspension Program

EMPOWERS FAMILIES TO STAY HEALTHY Parent Advocacy Parenting Skill Building In-Home Support Services Money Management Education 14Relationship Enhancement classes

PROVIDES CARE FOR THE CAREGIVER Caregiver Support Groups Education and Training Caring From A Distance Caregiver Helpline: 941-364-7650

EMPOWERS CANCER PATIENTS TO COPE Oncology Yoga, Tai-Chi + Meditation Patient + Caregiver Support Groups Educational Resources Workshops + Special Events

Case Management HELPS TO PREVENT HOMELESSNESS Emergency Cash Assistance Food Pantry: Canned Goods and Food Vouchers

For the past year JFCS, with support from the Gulf

a special performance by the Sarasota Orchestra. On

Coast Community Foundation and other funders, has

March 20, the 14th Celebrity Chefs Food & Wine will

been providing cancer support and wellness programs

be held at The Resort at Longboat Key Club Islandside.

to patients and their caregivers who are in treatment or

The Celebrity Chefs event will feature chefs from 30 area

recovery. Cancer Support classes and groups are offered

restaurants, a silent auction, golf challenge, libations

in 10 locations, and a recent partnership with Sarasota

and live band. Another way to help JFCS achieve its

Memorial Healthcare System has brought oncology-

mission to provide safety net services for vulnerable

focused gentle exercise, yoga and wellness classes to

individuals and families is to donate to its food pantry,

SMH’s HealthFit location. “We began serving cancer

and the Veterans program is always in need of socks and

patients when the Center for Building Hope was not

backpacks.

able to fulfill those services any more,” she says. “We

embrace the community with care, and when there is

Volunteers are also welcome. “We serve over 25,000

a community need, JFCS fills the gap with the help of

clients annually, and we can’t do it alone. We have more

community partners.”

than 400 volunteers who provide 9,000 service hours

each year. They are the lifeblood of JFCS, and we could

An important part of JFCS’ community support comes

not provide the services we do without our volunteers,”

from its signature fundraising events. Its annual gala is

Brown says. “We need and value all of our community

December 17 at the Sarasota Ritz Carlton and features

support and partnerships.”

CONNECT >>> 2688 Fruitville Road, Sarasota 34237 | 941.366.2224 | JFCS-Cares.org DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

55

State College of Florida Foundation Delivering Scholars, Opportunities, First-Generation Graduates and a Local Impact Worth More an $432.4 Million

The State College of Florida Foundation is the fundraising organization for the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota or what many locals simply call SCF (previously known as MJC and MCC). In addition to providing scholarships, the Foundation raises funds for equipment, programs, workforce degrees, infrastructure and buildings.

SCF is the first and largest public college in the region and has graduated more than 50,000 students since 1957—an open access institution that provides an opportunity for students to fulfill their dreams. For some that’s simply being a first-generation graduate of their family, and for others, it’s to be a nurse, famous musician or all-star athlete. Proudly, SCF has celebrated all the aforementioned alumni!

More than 25,000 alumni have chosen to return or stay in the region and serve in leadership roles. Matt Sauer, executive editor for the Herald Tribune; Melissa LarkinSkinner, MA, LMHC, chief executive officer of Centerstone; and Mike Rio, director of elementary education for Manatee County to name a few. In the 2015-16 fiscal year, SCF and its students added $432.4 million in income to the region. Odds are that if you mention SCF during your next outing, you’ll hear praise from alumni or current students.

For many, college would not be possible without the support and access provided by SCF, the Foundation and its supporters. Many of us fondly remember our time in college as “ramen noodle days” and with a great appreciation for what “earning your grade or a dollar” really means.

When asked what is the hardest part of the Foundation’s work, Executive Director Cassandra Holmes says, “Seeing so much potential in our youth and on our campuses that we have yet to fulfill.”

56

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Each year the State College of Florida Foundation receives more than 2,500 scholarship applications from students and numerous asks for support of SCF’s programs by faculty and staff. While addressing these important needs, the Foundation is also working to raise capital to maintain and plan for SCF buildings that accommodate future workforce needs, such as handson training with clinical simulators, operating modern manufacturing equipment or working with complex lab apparatuses.

Traditionally, funding for your local community college comes from the state and taxpayer contributions to what is called the Public Education and Capital Outlay (PECO) fund. However, PECO is funded from taxes on a homeowner’s landline phone and energy bills, which are being reduced as more consumers choose to have only cellular service and have significantly reduced their energy consumption.

With support from the local community and passionate donors, last year the Foundation awarded more than $1.6 million in scholarships to more than 900 students, assisted programs with $50,000 plus in aid and raised $1 million to support SCF’s new Library & Learning Center.

This coming year, the SCF Foundation will again have more than 2,500 students seeking support for tuition, books and equipment while the College also seeks to make improvements to its buildings. A capital campaign is currently underway for a new Studio for the Performing Arts and a Health and Human Performance Center to accommodate SCF’s growing music programs, five intercollegiate sports teams and wellness programs.

With your help, the State College of Florida Foundation looks forward to meeting the needs of students and the community by successfully reaching its $10 million capital campaign goal.

CONNECT >>> Barbara Bourgoin, Director of Development | 941.752.5398 | bourgob@SCF.edu | SCF-Foundation.org DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

57

CircusArts Winter Wonderland SATURdAy, JAnUARy 27, 2018

Under The UllA seAring Big Top AT nAThAn Benderson pArk, soUTh of The mAll AT UTC

step into the Big Top and enter a winter fantasy of snowy delight. Join us at The Circus Arts Winter Wonderland gala where you’ll be thrilled by delectable cuisine, enchanting delights and astounding circus entertainment.

proceeds from The 2018 gala support CAC human service programs that promote accessible and inclusive outreach, education, healthcare and inter-generational connections through the circus arts.

SponSorShipS & reServationS available

CirCusArts.org | 941.355.9335 The Circus Arts Conservatory is a 501(c)(3) non-profit performing arts educational organization

Child Protection Center

Working to provide vital services for victims of child abuse

Doug Staley, Executive Director; Donna Koffman, Board Member; Brian Mariash, Board Member; Graci McGillicuddy, Board Member; Tony Dempsey, Board Vice-Chair; Jill Levine, Board Secretary; Millard Martin, Board Treasurer; Jennifer Steube, Board Member. Not Pictured: Karen Valentino, Board Chair; Dan Starostecki & Alina Cemitier, Board Members

Since 1980, the Child Protection Center (CPC) has

also provides a child-focused, friendly setting for forensic

been working to prevent child abuse and aid its young

interviews and medical examinations of abused children.

victims. From arming children with tools that help them

Additionally, the CPC facilitates supervised visits in which

stay safe, to helping abused children and their families

children are able to visit with their parents in a safe,

heal, CPC is able to provide the support that is needed.

secure and appropriate setting. Making sure children are

“Our sole focus is the prevention, intervention and

protected is the CPC’s first priority.

treatment of child abuse,” says Ella Lewis, Development Director. “Aside from the huge personal toll of child

Treating victims of abuse, their families and non-

abuse, the cost to the community is astronomical. We

offending parents includes therapy that helps them

help prevent the cycle of abuse from continuing.”

work through the trauma and develop coping strategies.

“Child abuse is an issue that can be difficult to face and,

The first step is prevention, which the CPC addresses

although our programs are working to lessen it, the need

through evidence-based and nationally endorsed

to help its survivors still exists today,” Lewis says. “We

education programs in all public elementary schools

are here for those children and families, and we need the

where children learn about personal safety, internet

support of an engaged community to make a difference

safety, anti-bullying and abduction prevention. The CPC

for children impacted by abuse.”

CONNECT >>> 720 S. Orange Ave., Sarasota 34236 | 941.365.1277 | cpcsarasota.org DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

59

Children First

Early childhood services and education help area’s most vulnerable children flourish

Children First helps local children from very low-

and occupational, physical and speech therapy are

income families overcome poverty’s challenges and

provided. Children also have more than half of their

flourish with early childhood services and Head Start

weekly nutrition needs met. Children First is a Head

pre-kindergarten education that has earned accolades

Start Program of Excellence, one of only 10 programs

nationally. “Our services are provided to expecting

nationwide to earn the designation.

families through five year olds who live below the federal poverty level,” says Philip Tavill, President and

Family advocates work closely with families to help

CEO. “We also work closely with the family to bring

them set and achieve goals–often relating to education

stability to the table economically and socially, and

and work–that lead to self-sufficiency. A variety

help them contend with the crises that result when

of classes also are available through Children First

living with the toxic stressors of poverty.”

including the award-winning Nurturing Dads program along with parenting and career readiness classes and

In addition to providing comprehensive early childhood

a special class for grandparents raising grandchildren.

services for infants and toddlers and pre-school for threeto five-year-olds, every child receives developmental,

“People don’t realize how in-depth our services are

vision and hearing screening as well as access to

with children and families,” Tavill says. “A great Board

regular dental and medical care. About 15 percent

of Directors, staff, volunteers, and the philanthropists

of the children served have a diagnosed disability,

in this community are what make that possible.”

CONNECT >>> 1723 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota 34234 | 941.953.3877 | childrenfirst.net 60

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast Putting passion for conserving Florida’s natural bounty into action

It’s fair to say Eileen Scudder-Zimmermann is a benevolent force of nature when it comes to conserving Florida’s natural beauty and invaluable waters. Since 2009, Scudder-Zimmermann has served on the board, including two years as chair, and actively supported Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast’s mission. The Foundation aims to preserve the natural land and waterways needed to retain the beauty and great quality of life that have earned this area so many accolades–before it is too late.

“We’re getting a lot done, but there is so much more that needs to be done,” Scudder-Zimmermann says. “We’re all working to be part of a conservation community that gets behind the effort to save and protect properties important to water quality and our enjoyment of this area’s bays and beaches.” She and her husband have been coming to Sarasota since the 1990s and now split their time between Sarasota and Chicago where ScudderZimmermann saw the impact of the city’s Lakefront Protection Ordinance and realized this area’s natural assets also should be forever safeguarded. made by the Conservation Foundation to preserve The Foundation’s new Youth in Nature initiative,

key properties. She also has made a planned gift so

which provides a variety of nature experiences for

her legacy will last forever. “Time really is of the

at-risk youth, is also close to her heart. Putting her

essence. If we don’t move now, those natural lands

passion into action, Scudder-Zimmermann’s talents,

won’t be there anymore,” Scudder-Zimmermann

time and philanthropy have supported the strides

says. “We have to protect the things we love here.”

CONNECT >>> 400 Palmetto Ave., Osprey 34229 | 941.918.2100 | conservationfoundation.com DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

61

Easterseals Southwest Florida Helping Abilities Shine.

Lori Roa knows firsthand the difference Easterseals Southwest Florida can make in people’s lives. Forty years ago, her sister, Ana, was struck by a car while riding her bike and suffered a traumatic brain injury. The accident left Ana with many challenges to living independently as an adult–something she very much wanted to do. “People who are disabled want the same things all of us want–love, belonging, purpose and community,” Roa says.

“Easterseals taught her the life skills she needed and trained her in computer skills. We watched her blossom under their care and achieve her dream.”

Not only did Easterseals help Ana live on her own, its art program revealed her remarkable artistic abilities. “Our art program has flung open another door to inclusion for our adults,” says Easterseals President and CEO Tom Waters. “Other programs span the lifetime and include early intervention, education, employment and enriching life skills, which are all geared toward empowering lives to the fullest.”

Easterseals also has inspired Roa to remain involved with its mission to elevate lives. She currently is serving on the Abilities Shining Celebrations committee planning a March 6 fundraiser at Michael’s on East. “I’m so proud of my sister.

At Easterseals, every life matters. When one

says. “Easterseals touches so many lives. When

person benefits, we all benefit, and that’s why I

someone’s loved one receives support, their

think they are an astounding organization,” she

families and the community benefit, too.”

CONNECT >>> 350 Braden Ave., Sarasota 34243 | 941.355.7637 | Easterseals-swfl.org 62

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

The Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center

New growth campaign to increase support for agencies providing vital services to families in need.

As a nonprofit that serves other nonprofits, The Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center supports human services agencies providing vital assistance to the area’s most vulnerable families, all in one location. In addition to subsidized rent, the 17 nonprofit agencies housed at Glasser/ Schoenbaum’s north Sarasota campus pay only for their phone and internet services. All other expenses are included. “Our mission is to help nonprofits be sustainable and collaborative,” says Dr. Kameron Partridge Hodgens, CEO/Executive Director. “We save nonprofits more than $500,000 in overhead expenses each year, so they have more money to achieve their goals.”

The need within the community is great, making Glasser/Schoenbaum’s mission of support so important. In 2016, the agencies provided more than $16.8 million in services and served more than 45,500 individuals. “In our region, 41 percent of families are one crisis away from being able to maintain their livelihood,” Hodgens says. “They

to house more office space and enhance the visitor

are making sacrifices between healthcare or a car

experience. “What we do has a significant impact

repair and food on the table.”

on the community, and we need community support to do it. Those who get assistance here are

With four of the agencies on campus needing

more likely to stay out of traditional healthcare,

more space and eight agencies on the waiting

criminal, and behavioral health systems,” Hodgens

list, Glasser/Schoenbaum launched a growth

says. “We save tax dollars in the long run by

campaign last month to construct a new building

helping people lead more productive lives.”

CONNECT >>> 1750 17th Street Bldg. J-I, Sarasota 34234 | 941.365.4545 | gs-humanservices.org DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

63

At Goodwill, There’s Something for Everyone!

Gift List:

Mom: Designer Sweater Dad: Laptop with headphones Boss: Briefcase Dog: Dog bed Girlfriend: Jewelry Aunt: Purse Brother: Backpack Teacher: Vase Postman: Gloves Niece: Dress Best Selection, Great Value,

experiencegoodwill.org

Goodwill Manasota

Helping individuals overcome employment barriers builds stronger communities.

For 115 years, Goodwill Industries has supported job

remaining in the workforce. In addition to providing

seekers with disabilities and barriers to employment

free career services to community members through its

through training, job placement and employment.

Job Connection program, Goodwill Manasota provides

Locally, the numbers speak for themselves. In 2016,

meaningful, long-term employment opportunities to

Goodwill Manasota served 28,207 people, placed 755

people who have struggled to find work.

people in jobs and helped 240 veterans reintegrate into the civilian workforce. Its economic impact locally is

Improving education and wellness opportunities for

more than $92 million. Using the proceeds from the

veterans and military families through case coordination

sale of donated goods to fund training and employment

and mentoring is also core to Goodwill’s mission.

programs, Goodwill helps individuals find jobs and

Veterans have access to employment preparation

become qualified for better jobs. It is a pioneer of the

courses, skills development classes, and work resources

reduce-reuse-recycle movement and, this past year,

to help them find meaningful employment. “Individuals

diverted 40 million pounds from area landfills.

with disabilities are at a significant disadvantage in the workplace,” says Bob Rosinsky, President and CEO, “but

Through education and training, the organization helps

Goodwill believes that by helping all workers achieve

individuals overcome barriers that result from disability,

their full potential–through education, specialized

lack of education, poor language skills, or a myriad of

skills training, and the pride that is gained through

other obstacles that have kept them from entering or

employment–it is able to build stronger communities.

CONNECT >>> 2705 51st Ave. East, Bradenton 34203 | 941.355.2721 | experiencegoodwill.org DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

65

La Musica

Inspiring audiences through chamber music for 31 years

From Left to Right: Associate Artistic Director Derek Han Executive Director Mark Noble

For 31 years, La Musica has been inspiring audiences

Giuranna and Associate Artistic Director Derek

of all ages during its annual international chamber

Han. La Musica also holds exciting musical events

music festival. This year’s theme is–aptly–Sources of

including Sonata A Due on December 5, and during

Inspiration and explores three sources, the inspiration

the festival, Meet the Musicians at Dolphin Aviation

of the composer, which inspires the musicians who,

on April 11 and an interactive dinner on April 14

in turn, inspire audiences. “La Musica was founded

where musicians cook.

to include both international and American players with the purpose of melding different styles and

Educational outreach always has been part of La

techniques,” says Sally Faron, President of the Board

Musica, which offers free admission to open rehearsals

of Directors. “The musicians work in open rehearsals

for all students and teachers, free tickets to Sarasota/

where the audience listens to their conversations

Manatee high schools, and a special rehearsal-

as well as the music and becomes part of the

performance for younger students.

experience.”

“The community has supported La Musica for 31 This year’s festival is April 7 through 18 with four

years, and we need that support to continue. Chamber

concerts and various open rehearsals throughout and

music is one of the purest forms of music in that it was

features highly regarded musicians such as cellist

first created to be played at home with friends, not for

Antonio Meneses, La Musica Artistic Director Bruno

the stage,” Faron says. “It represents truth.”

CONNECT >>> P.O. Box 5442, Sarasota 34277 | 941.366.8450 ext. 7 | lamusicafestival.org 66

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Meals on Wheels of Sarasota More Than A Meal. We Save Lives.

Meals on Wheels of Sarasota has been helping

percent are able to pay something. Additional support

homebound people of all ages continue to live

comes from individuals, churches, companies, civic

independently for nearly half a century. Six days

groups and grants. The charity is raising matching

a week, 450 volunteers serve and deliver freshly-

funds for a $58,000 grant from Selby Foundation to

cooked, heart healthy meals that provide more than

purchase much-needed kitchen equipment and two

500 individuals in northern Sarasota County with

SUVs to allow another 175 clients to be served.

nutritional support and a daily safety check on their welfare. “Since our founding in 1971, we continue to

“The statistics are frightening. In Sarasota County,

be an independent, community-supported charity that

24,000 seniors have no idea where their next meal

serves more than 160,000 meals per year to seniors,

is coming from,” Broughton says. “We also help a

children, veterans and the physically and mentally

lot of mentally or physically disabled individuals,

handicapped without receiving federal funding,” says

pre-homeless families, and people with end stage

Marjorie Broughton, Executive Director.

cancer,” Broughton says. For just $1,500, a donor can provide meals for someone for an entire year. Because

Meals on Wheels’ clients must be unable to provide

companion animals also are part of the family, Meals

or prepare a meal for themselves and are asked for a

on Wheels supports 100 pets with food and veterinary

$4.50 per meal donation, toward which only about 30

care.

CONNECT >>> 421 N. Lime Ave., Sarasota 34237 | 941.366.6693 | mealsonwheelsofsarasota.org DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

67

Mote Marine Laboratory

Marine research’s globe-spanning impacts are more vital than ever.

Among the many treasures that make the Sarasota area

repairs are underway, replacement costs exceed what

unique is Mote Marine Laboratory whose world-class

insurance covers, adding to the help Mote needs.

marine research has global impacts. Its advancements in aquaculture, efforts to save threatened fisheries and

Funds have been set up to help the coral restoration

to search for new lifesaving, marine-based drugs are

effort succeed and to help staff impacted by the storm.

well known as are its breakthrough discoveries in coral

Flexibility in funding is also critical to aiding research

restoration. “Our groundbreaking technology to accelerate

advancements. “We have extensive crossover among

coral reef restoration is ultimately intended to benefit fish

our programs that impacts the scope of what we do, and

and other marine life that rely on reefs worldwide,” says

some vital programs may not be high profile but are still

Erin Kabinoff, Chief Development Officer. “Coral reefs also

crucial,” Kabinoff says. “The more we are able to support

are our first line of defense against wave action from major

collaboration through flexible funding, the better we are

storms like Hurricane Irma.”

able to accomplish our mission.”

Hurricane Irma is delaying this important mission at

Helping Mote achieve its critical mission is personally

Mote’s new Elizabeth Moore International Center for

rewarding for donors Keith and Linda Monda who say,

Coral Reef Research & Restoration on Summerland

“We’re proud that we are making a positive impact

Key, which took a direct hit. Nearly 90 percent of the

on our environment, economy and community by

corals–including Mote’s coral gene bank–were protected,

supporting Mote’s research and conservation efforts.”

but damage to exterior structures was extensive. While

CONNECT >>> 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota 34236 | 941.388.4441 | mote.org 68

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

New College of Florida Developing strong, well-rounded leaders for the future

As products of a liberal arts education, Bill and Betsy

broader interests than just the lab. You have a better

Johnston understand the worth of a New College

potential chief executive who can operate globally with

education in developing strong leadership for the future.

other cultures if that person knows more than how to

That fundamental belief has fueled their long-term

write code.”

involvement with the honors college and its students.

“There are a lot more options today than when we went

The Johnstons have a particular interest in helping

to college. New College students can study science,

students through scholarships, particularly those for

math and economics, and about 80 percent of them

whom challenging life events jeopardize completing their

go on to graduate school,” says Bill, vice-chair of the

education. They also highlight the need for supporting New

Board of Trustees, who has had a distinguished career in

College’s comprehensive $60 million campaign, which

business, including serving as President of the New York

primarily focuses on scholarships, faculty salaries and

Stock Exchange.

research, and campus program needs. “New College is part of the bigger picture of our community, and all donations

Seeing the accomplishments of New College students

are important, including unrestricted funds that can be used

and graduates speaks to the value of a well-rounded

for things that are high on the list to meet students’ needs,”

education. “Employers will teach whatever the job

Bill says. “If you can help a student, you benefit the next

involves,” Betsy says, “and they look for people with

generation beyond what you might imagine.”

CONNECT >>> 5800 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota 34243 | 941.487.5000 | ncf.edu DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

69

Players Centre for the Performing Arts Community support needed for innovative new arts complex in Lakewood Ranch

Relocating The Players Centre for the Performing Arts

without the community’s help.” The new Players Centre

to Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch is more than

will house a mainstage, black box experimental theater,

just a bold move for Sarasota’s first performing arts

cabaret with a full dining experience, and a performing

organization. It is the creation of a new arts complex in

arts studio.

an area of rapid growth. A $30 million capital campaign is underway to create premier performance spaces for

The campaign has received an early boost with a

both non-professional and professional performers as

$1 million lead gift from the Muriel O’Neil Fund for

well as an arts education facility to support The Players’

the Performing Arts of the Community Foundation

mission to provide vital training for more than 500

of Sarasota County and will be supplemented from

students in performing arts.

the estimated $9 million proceeds from the sale of the current Players property. “We are the community

“The Players Centre is not just a community theater,

theater for this area, and community theater needs to go

it’s an arts complex,” says Michelle Bianchi, Managing

where it is needed,” says Jeffery Kin, Artistic Director.

Director/CEO. “It will be an interactive experience from

“Lakewood Ranch has a rapidly growing population, but

the time people arrive in the parking lot and continue

no theater. Our opportunity is to do what we do best,

when they are in their seats, but we can’t build this

which is to bring live theater to our community.”

CONNECT >>> 838 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 34236 | 941.365.2494 | theplayers.org 70

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Roskamp Institute Pursuing Cures

Since opening its doors in 2003, the Roskamp Institute

and to promote healthy aging. “Everybody here comes to

has been a global leader in the search for cures for

work with the goal of trying to alleviate human suffering,”

debilitating diseases and disorders of the brain, including

says Institute President and CEO, Dr. Fiona Crawford,

Alzheimer’s disease as well as conditions that particularly

who leads the Institute along with Dr. Michael Mullan.

impact veterans and military personnel, such as Traumatic

Crawford and Mullan were members of a team of scientists

Brain Injury (TBI), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

who discovered the onset of Alzheimer’s was, among

and Gulf War illness. Based in a 48,000-square-foot

other things, directly related to the accumulation of a

facility in Sarasota, more than 50 top scientific researchers

protein called ß-amyloid. Today, the Roskamp Institute

passionately search for the keys that will unlock the cures

develops medications and treatments to reduce or slow

to diseases that impact millions of patients, their families

the accumulation of ß-amyloid. A promising treatment

and caregivers, and an overburdened healthcare system

developed by Roskamp researchers recently concluded

that will need to care for them all.

testing in a Phase III clinical study in Europe. Few drugs

The Roskamp Institute employs highly experienced,

have advanced to this stage, and if successful, the

interdisciplinary scientists and technicians to conduct

treatment would be the first new Alzheimer’s treatment

research with a mission to discover safe, effective new

approved in more than 13 years, and the first that actually

drug therapies to successfully treat diseases of the mind

targets the disease itself, not just its symptoms.

CONNECT >>> 2040 Whitfield Ave., Sarasota 34243 | 941.752.2949 | roskampinstitute.org DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

71

Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation & Saks Fifth Avenue – The Mall at University Town Center wishes to thank the 12th An n uA l

Key to the CUre S p o n So rS

Thank You! We raised more than

$200,000! premier SponSor

CGC 034192

FAShioniStA SponSor

The Amicus Foundation

Key to the CUre

mASter Key Janice Kelly Memorial Foundation

Key to our SuCCeSS CHARLES & MARGERY BARANCIK FOUNDATION DART FOUNDATION HOLCOMB – KREITHEN PLASTIC SURGERY ARTHUR S. KARP FAMILY FOUNDATION, INC DESIGN WORKS DONNA & DAVID KOFFMAN ASHLEY D. KOZEL NORTHERN TRUST

PALM AESTHETICS PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER PRECISION DRIVING MARKO RADISIC SARASOTA PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER SHERI WEINSTEIN, M.D., SARASOTA WELLNESS AND INTERNAL MEDICINE SOVEREIGN PLASTIC SURGERY KAREN & MIKE VALENTINO

Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation Working together to provide extraordinary healthcare

David Verinder & Mason Ayres

The confidence that arises from having an outstanding

delivery of superlative medicine and services, progressive

healthcare system is a hallmark of a vibrant community,

research on life-saving and life-improving advances and

and for 41 years, Sarasota Memorial Healthcare

investing in leading edge technology. The Healthcare

Foundation has played a key role in building that

Foundation also supports continuing education and

confidence by supporting Sarasota Memorial Health Care

professional staff development to ensure providers stay

System (SMH). “Few community hospitals offer what

current with rapid healthcare advancements.

Sarasota Memorial does with highly advanced technology, equipment and services as well as

“For more than 90 years, our mission has been to deliver

outstanding patient care, which is a testament to its high

quality healthcare to the residents of Sarasota County,”

standards of caring,” Mason Ayres, President of Sarasota

says David Verinder, CEO of Sarasota Memorial Health

Memorial Healthcare Foundation, says. “Philanthropy

Care System. “Over the decades, we have seen

has and will continue to ensure that SMH maintains that

astonishing medical advances, and thanks to the trust

level of quality and the strength of our healthcare system

and support of the Healthcare Foundation, have

for many years to come.”

pioneered successful new treatments in cardiac, cancer, neurology, orthopedics and more. That confidence has

Devoted practitioners and staff have created a

helped shape who we are today–one of America’s best

collaborative environment that is patient-centric and

and most respected hospitals.”

innovative. Through their efforts, SMH is a 829-bed, world-class healthcare destination providing

MISSION: Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation is an

comprehensive and high quality healthcare services

independent charitable organization working together with

locally. Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation helps

Sarasota Memorial Health Care System and others to

accomplish this by supporting first-class facilities that allow

ensure world-class healthcare throughout our community.

CONNECT >>> 1515 S. Osprey Ave., Suite B-4, Sarasota 34239 | 941.917.1286 | smhf.org DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

73

Sarasota Opera

To entertain, enrich, and educate our community and visitors from around the world.

Opera is the ultimate art form combining music,

Musical America has called the Sarasota Opera House

theater, sets, costumes and dance. It has the power

“one of the finest venues for opera in the U.S.” It is

to express the full range of human emotions and

renowned for its outstanding acoustics and historic

experience. With its five-opera season and over 100

charm and plays a significant role in the economic

events a year, Sarasota Opera continues to distinguish

vitality of the historic downtown district and the region.

itself as one of the leading opera companies in the

Outside of opera season this beautiful venue is shared

United States.

with dozens of arts and community organizations.

Sarasota Opera’s reputation for excellence is global.

The impact of Sarasota Opera is not limited to

Welcoming more than 43,000 visitors, Sarasota Opera

performances inside the theater. Staying true to the

patrons travel from all over Florida, United States,

organization’s mission to educate and enrich the

Canada and the world including countries such as

community, Sarasota Opera has an extensive outreach

Germany, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. These

and education program. Last season, Sarasota Opera

opera aficionados have learned that compelling stories,

brought opera to approximately 4,900 young people

partnered with great music and dazzling productions,

through its Artists in Schools program and student preview

make a performance at Sarasota Opera an experience

performances while the Sarasota Youth Opera offers

that will not be forgotten.

participation in after-school choruses, Opera Summer Camp, and a fully-staged Youth Opera production.

CONNECT >>> 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota 34236 | 941.328.1300 | sarasotaopera.org 74

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Selah Freedom

Selah Freedom exists to end sex trafficking and bring freedom to the exploited.

From Left to Right: Toma Milbank, Board Chair Elizabeth Fisher, Co-Founder/President/CEO Laurie Swink, Co-Founder, Vice President of Culture and Education Dr. Jason Quintal, PhD, LCSW, National Clinical Director

CLIFF ROLES

Kintsugi is an ancient Japanese form of art in which broken pottery is mended together with gold. At Selah Freedom, this has been the central focus for much of our art therapy with survivors, symbolizing that there is beauty in brokenness. Your generosity is as valuable as pure gold, and, like the gold that brings each unique piece together, you are helping us restore lives to walk in the fullness and freedom they deserve!

The idea that human trafficking is an issue locally is

goal is to prevent it before it ever event happens.” With

difficult for many to grasp amid the area’s accolades for

education programs aimed at children, teens, parents

pristine beaches, the arts, and as a wonderful place to

and law enforcement, Selah Freedom is shining a light

live. Even more difficult is the fact that these are local

on the issue.

children being exploited. Selah Freedom works every day, locally and nationally, to end the exploitation,

Getting involved in stopping human trafficking can

restore the lives that were stolen from survivors of sex

mean becoming a part of Selah Freedom’s awareness

trafficking, and raise awareness of the true nature of the

team, working hands on with survivors in their homes,

situation.

attending an event, hosting a Party With A Purpose, or shopping at Selah Vie Boutique where proceeds from

“One in three girls is sexually abused and often run

reclaimed furniture and clothing helps to reclaim lives.

away from home. Within 48 hours, 80 percent will be approached by a predator. They are sold 15 to 40 times

“Selah Freedom is the nation’s fastest growing anti-sex

every 24 hours,” says Elizabeth Fisher, President and

trafficking organization. We have been recognized

CEO. “Florida is in the top three states in the nation for

by the governor and attorney general for bringing a

sex trafficking and our area is in the top two in the state.

solution to the issue,” Fisher says. “Our goal is to end

Our programs help restore the lives of survivors, but our

sex trafficking and bring light into this dark issue.”

CONNECT >>> P.O. Box 21415, Sarasota 34276 | 888.8.FREE.ME | SelahFreedom.com DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

75

Southeastern Guide Dogs

Puppy raisers play essential role in helping to transform lives.

Southeastern Guide Dogs transforms lives for people with visual impairments and veterans with disabilities by pairing them with expertly trained service dogs. Giving these extraordinary canine companions their best start in life are dedicated puppy raisers who open their homes and provide the training and affection to start these young dogs along their path of service.

Scott and Christine Snyder have raised two puppies that are now aiding visually impaired individuals, and they are preparing to take in a new puppy. “It’s enriching, and you learn so much about properly training a dog. Anyone who doubts they can do it will be surprised at the amount of support you get and how enjoyable it is,” Christine says. “They say you come for the puppies, but stay for the people, and that is so true. We’ve made some good friends, and you also know you have helped give someone back their independence.”

There are a variety of ways to be involved aside from committing to raise a puppy for a year and attend twice monthly group meetings for puppy raisers. Individuals are needed to puppy-sit and,

the dog you raise matched with a forever person,”

for those who hesitate to take on a full time

Scott says. “It can be tough to let them go, but

commitment, it is possible to co-raise a puppy.

at the end of the day, you know you are helping

“Anyone can do this. The best part is when you see

someone else. It is the best thing I’ve ever done.”

CONNECT >>> 4210 77th St. East, Palmetto 34221 | 941.729.5665 | GuideDogs.org 76

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

I WAS BORN FOR A PURPOSE. TRAINED TO HELP HER. SHE HOLDS ME WHEN SHE’S AFRAID, WHISPERS THAT I SAVED HER — THAT I AM HER BRIGHTEST STAR. I AM HER GUIDE, HER SUPPORT, HER FRIEND. A DOG, I’M NOT.

We provide all dogs and services free of charge. We receive no government funding.

WITH ME, SHE SEES THE WORLD AGAIN.

1.800.944.3647 I GuideDogs.org

SunCoast Blood Bank

A life-saving mission that reaches far beyond the role of a traditional blood bank.

SunCoast Blood Bank is much more than a traditional blood bank and first responder in times of crisis. While its mission to provide life-saving blood products to area hospitals and health centers is vital, up to 35 percent of its blood products are used to treat cancer patients. SunCoast also plays a crucial role in leading edge research and procedures aimed at treating and defeating cancer, arthritis, blood disorders, sickle cell, multiple sclerosis and much more.

To achieve all of this, SunCoast Blood Bank, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, relies on the generosity of both blood and financial donors. Both were required to bring a successful, life-extending therapy to late stage prostate cancer patients, and SunCoast is the first blood bank worldwide to participate in a similar procedure for late stage ovarian cancer. Up to 300 patients a year receive plasma exchanges to help with bleeding disorders, and specially processed blood products are used to help leukemia and sickle cell patients.

SunCoast Blood Bank also is the first U.S. blood bank to utilize a new procedure that results in pathogen-reduced platelets. It also helps research centers nationwide by collecting cellular components needed for research on cancer, arthritis and other disorders. Financial donors help make this possible, and also are working to raise $200,000 to replace a much-needed Bloodmobile. “We want everyone to know that we are so much more than a traditional blood bank,” said Scott Bush, CEO. “Platelet, blood and plasma donors are extremely important, of course, but financial donors are also critical to helping us save lives.”

CONNECT >>> 1760 Mound St., Sarasota 34236 | 1.866.97.BLOOD | scbb.org 78

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee An alumna’s passion inspires dedicated service to local students

Dr. Anila Jain & Dr. Judy Genshaft, President of USF

Dr. Anila Jain’s passion for the University of South

STEM students,” she says. “We have the plans in place and

Florida has motivated the USF alumna to very active

need to raise a portion of those funds locally.”

involvement with USF and its Sarasota-Manatee campus (USFSM) for three decades and recently inspired a major

Currently Jain serves on the Campus Board of Trustees,

donation for a variety of initiatives. Those include an

USF Systemwide Foundation Board of Directors, Bulls

endowed fund to support STEM programs at USFSM,

Club Board of Directors and chairs the USF Women in

scholarships, and women’s athletics, including USF’s first

Leadership and Philanthropy. She recently was honored

NCAA women’s row team.

by USF for her longtime support, which includes her volunteerism and major contributions to support the

“I stay involved because I have a passion for my university,

Alumni Association’s programs, athletics program’s

says Jain, who has two degrees from USF along with her

academic initiatives, STEM programs, women’s athletics,

medical degree and an MBA. “Our students are the best and

including NCAA women’s rowing, and USF and USFSM

brightest in our area. Our freshman class has a combined

scholarships.

GPA of 3.9, but many are non-traditional students who need our support.” Because of her medical background,

“Mentoring and assisting USFSM students makes a vast

expanding STEM programs at USFSM is important to Jain,

difference in their lives,” Jain says, “and allows them

including construction of the Sarasota-Manatee Science &

to stay in our community and become productive and

Research Building. “If we want to compete globally we need

engaged citizens.”

CONNECT >>> 8350 N. Tamiami Trail C325, Sarasota 34243 | 941.359.4603 | usfsm.edu DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

79

Venice Institute for Performing Arts

VIPA has a mission to make Venice and the surrounding area a performing arts destination.

The Venice Institute for Performing Arts (VIPA), the

for college before performing for the community. VIPA

nonprofit management company for the state-of-the-

also has an internship program where students earn

art Venice Performing Arts Center (VPAC), is making

credit working in its administrative offices and an after-

strides toward its mission of providing performing

school apprentice program for high school students

arts education and a diverse array of performances

who are paid to work alongside industry professionals.

and events to engage the community. This season, 17

So far this school year VIPA has worked with 25 high

performances, designed to entertain audiences and

school students to teach them the tools to thrive in a

enrich students, are on tap in an array of genres from

competitive, interpersonal work environment.

ballet to country concerts. “Performing arts education helps young people learn life skills like how to

“We’re new, so fundraising and development are very

collaborate and work as a team,” says Becca Eldredge,

important now,” says Eldredge. “We want to keep ticket

Managing Director and Associate Producer.

prices affordable while offering educational opportunities for youth. With production costs so high, we need

One example of an opportunity created for the

donors and sponsors to help us bridge the pricing gap.”

community and arts students was a master class with

Support from donors and sponsors means VIPA can price

The Broadway Boys whose cast of singers conducted

shows at an accessible level for residents and provide

a session on auditioning and helped students prepare

capital to support growing educational efforts.

CONNECT >>> 1 Indian Ave., Venice 34285 | 941.218.3779 | veniceperformingartscenter.com 80

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

One Donor 90 Funded Performances

800 Unlocked Imaginations

1600 Standing Ovations

Be The One Each one of us has the potential to impact a person, a cause, a community. For more than 35 years, the Community Foundation of Sarasota County has matched donors to the right causes, creating lasting impact. You can be the one to make a difference. Call us today, (941) 955-3000. cfsarasota.org

of

21 Universities ranked among the top 25 by U.S. News and World Report that SSES grads have matriculated to since 2011

55% Faculty with master’s/ doctorate degrees

17

State championships won by Falcons sports teams,

Niche.com ranked Saint Stephen’s the No. 1 private K-12 school in the Sarasota/Manatee area in March 2017. SSES received an A+ ranking.

720

total enrollment

Pre-K3 through grade 12

9:1

+ Different nationalities

Student/Teacher ratio

37

$7million

SSES students named National Merit Scholar finalists since 2005

Merit-based aid offered by colleges to graduates of the class of 2017

20

represented in our student body

AP 18

Advanced Placement classes offered

Call (941) 746-2121 today to schedule a tour.

315 41st Street West • Bradenton, FL 34209 • www.saintstephens.org

®

Cat Depot

The Resource for Rescue, Adoption & Education

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast

Over 200 children are waiting for a Big. Being a Big Brother or Big Sister can be one of the most enjoyable and fulfilling things you’ll ever do.

You can shape a child’s future by empowering them to achieve. And the best part is that it’s actually a lot of fun!

For a few hours just a couple of times a month, you and your Little can share the kinds of activities you already like to do.

Big Brothers Big Sisters helps children realize their potential and build their futures. As a Big, you will not only impact a child’s life today, but transform their lives forever. We nurture children and strengthen communities.

And we couldn’t do any of it without you.

Ready to learn more about becoming a Big? Give us a call at 941.488.4009. So many of our Bigs tell us that becoming a Big was the best decision they ever made.

What are you waiting for?

CONNECT >>> 1000 South Tamiami Trail, Suite C, Venice 34285 | 941.488.4009 | bbbssun.org

Cat Depot is on a mission to change the destiny of over 30,000 homeless cats and kittens living in Sarasota County. When Cat Depot began in 2003, its mission was to provide a safe haven for cats and a give a voice to those who had none.

Fourteen years and 10,000 cats later, that has not changed.

Today, Cat Depot has an adoption center, a shelter medical clinic, an education center and a veterinary care clinic open to the public. Cat Depot is a nonprofit, limited access, freeroaming shelter that is recognized for its progressive design and commitment to homeless, abandoned and injured cats and kittens.

In 2016, Cat Depot helped feed 240 personal pets and over 500 community cats per month, rescued 1,532 cats and placed 1,419 into loving homes. Grants awarded helped spay or neuter 1,016 community cats and personal pets. Over five hundred volunteers contributed over 22,000 hours of their time at Cat Depot, and 165 fosters contributed over 33,000 hours caring for cats in need.

Cat Depot welcomes visitors to come in and spend time with the kitties. Volunteers and donations are constantly needed.

Please help!

CONNECT >>> 2542 17th Street, Sarasota 34234 941.366.2404 | catdepot.org DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

83

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc.

Helping people attain self-sufficiency

The Circus Arts Conservatory

Serving locally, impacting globally. Circus Arts is a tool for change through performance, training, outreach and legacy.

The Circus Arts Conservatory (CAC) strives to preserve the heritage of the circus while stewarding future generations in traditional and contemporary cultural aspects of the circus arts. Through acclaimed performances, youth Catholic Charities strives to assist everyone who asks

training and community outreach, we protect and enrich vital

for help with the goal of achieving self-reliance. Young

programming.

mothers and their children who require a safe place to live turn to Our Mother’s House of Catholic Charities

Our performances boast an impressive roster of international

in Venice for shelter, guidance, and the skills to reach

artists pushing human boundaries, bringing generations of

independence. Preschool students from struggling,

families together and leaving audiences awestruck.

working-poor families receive a full range of services and quality education to be ready for kindergarten at St.

Sailor Circus, America’s longest running youth circus, trains

Martha’s Early Learning Center of Catholic Charities in

students in the circus arts and helps them develop life

Sarasota. Homeless families in crisis reside at the Catholic

management skills, self-discipline and confidence, creating the

Charities Family Haven in North Port and obtain long-

leaders of tomorrow.

term care that solves their housing and economic issues to become self-supporting. The Home Buyer Education

The Humor Therapy program engages with the elderly to

Class in Bradenton instructs at-risk buyers with realistic

improve their quality of life and our Arts Integrated Education

steps to successful home ownership. Your generosity and

program uses the circus arts to bring science, language arts

support of Catholic Charities enables those in need to live

and math concepts to life.

a better life. Thank you!

The legacy of our community lives on through the circus arts in the eyes and minds of children of all ages at The Circus Arts

CONNECT >>> 5055 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 34234 | 941.355.4680 | catholiccharitiesdov.org

84

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Conservatory.

CONNECT >>> 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota 34239 941.355.9335 | CircusArts.org

Saturday, January 27, 2018 The Ritz- Carlton, Grand Ballroom

Guest of Honor

Bishop Frank J. Dewane

HonoraryChair Maria DeSanto

Event Chairs

Mary Kenealy-Barbetta Julie Delaney Jane Norton

Enjoy an elegant, black-tie evening of cocktails, auctions, dinner and dancing to the sounds of Soul Sensations.

Tickets are $300.

Sponsorship opportunities are available.

For more information call 941-355-4680 ext. 301, email nmuth@ccdis1.org or visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org.

To benefit the programs and services of Catholic Charities in Sarasota and Manatee counties.

Sponsor

Presented by Sarasota and Manatee Counties

Media Sponsors

Education Foundation of Sarasota County Education Changes Lives.

The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee There’s an organization investing in our public schools and our community’s future. It funds over 200 classroom grants annually, allowing teachers to take individual lessons to the next level. It underwrites opportunities for students to connect with our community through experiential field trips. It collaborates with schools to pilot innovative programs. For more than 30 years this organization has operated under the belief that every child deserves to reach their full potential.

We are the Education Foundation of Sarasota County, a philanthropic organization working with the leadership of Sarasota County Schools to enhance the potential of students, promote excellence in teaching and inspire innovation in education. Together with your generosity, we collectively make a difference in the lives of our children. Your gift to the Education Foundation supports our schools and creates a brighter future.

CONNECT >>> 1960 Landings Blvd., Sarasota 34231 941.927.0965 | EdFoundationSRQ.org

Federation helps individuals find their pathway to Jewish life, connects our community to Israel and inspires interfaith dialogue.

Whenever and wherever Jews are in need, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee is there to help —locally, in Israel, and around the world. The Jewish Federation of Sarasota Manatee’s mission is to strengthen Jewish life and identity in our community, provide for Jewish people in need, and promote support for Israel.

The Jewish Federation is the only local Jewish organization focused on the whole-all of us thriving together. We are the center of Jewish life-serving as community convener; fostering an open exchange of ideas; and developing programs and strengthening services that connect our constituents to their Jewish identity.

By engaging both the Jewish and secular communities, we build relationships that allow us to broaden the menu of touch points through which individuals can connect-with the Federation and with one another. With your help, we will continue to work together to achieve our vision of a vibrant Jewish community.

CONNECT >>> 580 McIntosh Rd., Sarasota 34232 941.371.4546 | jfedsrq.org 86

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Mental Health Community Centers Support Starts Here.

Jeffrey G. Standring, MS. Executive Director, Mental Health Community Centers, Inc.

Mental Health Community Centers, Maestro Joseph Caulkins

Key Chorale

Inc. (MHCC) operates four Wellness Centers providing consumerdriven, recovery-focused programs for adults

Innovation, Collaboration, Community, Creativity.

diagnosed with severe and persistent mental illness. Locations

KEY CHORALE, Sarasota’s only symphonic chorus, has been

Evidenced-Based Programs and support groups focused on

performing and promoting choral music of the highest quality

Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration’s

since its inception in 1985. The semi-professional chorale is

(SAMHSA) Wellness Initiative; targeting the Eight Dimensions of

comprised of 110 auditioned singers, with a professional core

Wellness: Emotional, Environmental, Intellectual, Physical,

of section leaders and singers, as well as a select chamber

Financial, Social, Spiritual, and Occupational.

are in Arcadia, North Port, Sarasota and Venice.

Wellness Centers: MHCC Recovery programs Utilize WRAP

chorus. Under the direction of Joseph Caulkins since 2006, Key Chorale has become a producer of collaborative musical

Peer Assisted Liaison: This program unites at-risk adults with

events that embrace and support our community, engaging

Certified Recovery Peer Specialist (CRPS) facilitating mutually

in multiple outreach projects and musical partnerships, and

supportive relationships promoting recovery, helping to restore

performing each season with a professional orchestra and

function and quality of life, and preventing recurrent crises,

accompanist. Key Chorale is proud to unveil its new Student

hospitalization, incarceration, and homelessness.

Scholars Program, a unique opportunity to support qualified area high school choir members as singers with Key Chorale

Supported Employment: An Evidence-Based Practice offering

during its performance season. This experience is designed

job placement and personalized support services. MHCC

to cultivate, coach, mentor and encourage students with

works with established community businesses expediting

an exceptional aptitude for music, who plan to further their

placement and work site support, while decreasing acute care

musical studies after high school.

services and homelessness, and creating economic independence.

MISSION: Key Chorale is dedicated to performing and promoting choral music of the highest quality.

CONNECT >>> 240B South Tuttle Ave., Sarasota 34237 941.953.3477 | mhcci.com

CONNECT >>> P.O. Box 20613, Sarasota 34276 941.921.4845 | KeyChorale.org | info@keychorale.org DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

87

Pines of Sarasota Rehabilitation & Senior Care Community The area’s preeminent not-for-profit provider of rehabilitation services, senior healthcare, education and support.

The Out-of-Door Academy A Cum Laude Society School

Out-of-Door is an academic community committed to providing an exceptional education for each student so they can confront the challenges of college, and life, with expertise and confidence.

In the early 1920s, the founders of The Out-of-Door Academy had a clear vision for the type of school they wished to create on a primitive barrier island called Siesta Key. They envisioned a school where some of the most important lessons would be learned “out-of-door,” or outside the classroom. Central to that vision was a belief that a great education should be comprehensive and transcend the boundaries of the classroom and a traditional, academic curriculum.

Since 1924, The Out-of-Door Academy has remained true to its original mission. Our faculty has always understood that shaping the lives of our students, by instilling core values and helping young people make good decisions, is essential for student learning, growth and development.

Over 90 years of philanthropic support has made Out-of-Door what it is today: a state-of-the-art learning environment where students are challenged, supported and thriving! Visit us online at oda.edu to learn more.

CONNECT >>> Lower School | Pre-K - Grade 5 444 Reid Street, Sarasota 34242 Middle & Upper Schools | Grades 6 - 12 | 5950 Deer Drive, Sarasota 34240 | 941.349.3223 | oda.edu 88

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

For nearly 70 years, Pines of Sarasota Rehabilitation and Senior Care Community has answered the needs of seniors, providing a superior standard of compassionate care through skilled nursing, outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation, memory care and assisted living.

Ask Cliff Roles and Maria Berenyi-Roles about their peace of mind, knowing Maria’s mom is well cared for at Pines.

Or Phil Colandro, who arrived at Pines as a paraplegic and after rehabilitation left his wheelchair behind and walked again.

The Ready & Steady balance program offers free falls risk assessments to help seniors reduce falls that can have a devastating effect on their quality of life. And the Education & Training Institute provides training for caregivers worldwide.

Pines believes in a community where seniors can achieve their goals and live with dignity. As a not-for-profit, they are grateful to those who share its vision and whose contributions help Pines of Sarasota Foundation ensure Pines can continue to serve our community’s seniors.

CONNECT >>> 1501 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota 34236 941.365.0250 | pinesofsarasota.org

Sarasota YMCA

Combining Tradition with Innovation since 1945.

Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida Care. No matter what. That is our promise to our community.

The Sarasota YMCA has been listening and responding to One in five women has turned to Planned Parenthood as a trusted provider of high-quality, affordable, and nonjudgmental reproductive health care and information.

At health centers throughout the region, we serve both the insured and uninsured, providing lifesaving cancer screenings, birth control, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted disease, and breast health services.

In Sarasota and Manatee counties, we serve more than 5,500 patients annually. We also provide comprehensive, scientifically accurate prevention outreach education to thousands of area young people.

At Planned Parenthood, we believe that care is much more than the services we provide – it’s the way we approach our world. We’re building on over 50 years of service in this region and a century of history to stand up for reproductive justice and the well-being of our patients. Care. No matter what.

CONNECT >>> 736 Central Ave., Sarasota 34236 941.365.3913 | myplannedparenthood.org

our communities’ most critical needs for over 70 years.

From early learning to diabetes prevention, youth sports and swim lessons to after school care, counseling to summer camp, and a youth shelter to foster care and adoptions, the Y continues to effect lasting change in Sarasota.

By building a culture of Philanthropy to meet the community needs, the Y is also on the forefront of preventing chronic disease through programs such as Diabetes Prevention – a small group for adults at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes, Livestrong At the YMCA - a 12-week initiative for people affected by cancer, Biggest Winner—helping people develop healthy habits, and Pedaling for Parkinson’s – a cycling class to increase motor skills. Programs like these help Ys find and assist people most in need in our community.

As a nonprofit organization serving over 50,000 people annually, the Y never turns anyone away due to their inability to pay. We’re for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility.

CONNECT >>> One S. School Ave., Suite 301, Sarasota 34237 | 941.951.2916 | sarasotaymca.org

DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

89

Second Chance Last Opportunity Educating and Empowering the Underserved Since 1995

Suncoast ScienceCenter/ Faulhaber FabLab Where Dreams are Built Second Chance Last Opportunity, located in north Sarasota in the heart of the area’s most underserved neighborhood,

Imagine a state of the art fabrication facility where a

provides an oasis of hope and opportunity to youth and

teenage entrepreneur can create a prototype for the next

individuals knocked off track by life’s circumstances.

must-have product, a retired engineer or machinist can share their vast knowledge with eager students, and teachers can

Over the past 20 years, SCLO has served over 15,000 low

access supplemental tools to give their students unique hands-

income adults or youth and homeless clients with multiple

on learning experiences right in the classroom.

social and economic problems, helping them reach their potential and build a future through life skills and job

Not only does this place exist, it’s right in your back yard:

preparation training, youth programs, counseling, referral

The Suncoast Science Center/Faulhaber FabLab where your

services for emergency housing, food, financial help and

dreams are always welcome.

baby supplies. Licensed mental health counseling and social workers are also available for those needing additional

With decades of world-class experience, the FabLab’s

support for themselves or family members. Life management

Founders – the late Dr. Fritz Faulhaber and his wife Ping

skills classes include training in effective communication,

Faulhaber – set out on a journey to provide not only a state of

parenting skills, anger management, goal setting, budgeting,

the art fabrication center, but also to establish a free lending

and health awareness.

library for teachers. This has provided the community with a myriad of opportunities for hands-on exploration and

Funds are always needed for general operating expenses

experiential learning in Science, Technology, Engineering

and supplies, and have a direct impact on what services

and Math. The Suncoast Science Center/Faulhaber FabLab is

are offered. In addition to financial donations, businesses

an incredible and unique community resource inspiring and

and individuals can help by sponsoring events, organizing

supporting tomorrow’s innovators.

fundraises, or setting up drives for food, personal hygiene products, and baby supplies. Volunteers are always welcome,

Your support is more than a donation. It’s an opportunity

including client mentors and fundraisers.

for future innovators of any age to turn their dreams into a reality.

CONNECT >>> 1933 Dr. Martin Luther King Way, Sarasota 34234 | 941.360.8660 SecondChanceLastOpportunity.org 90

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

CONNECT >>> 4452 Beneva Road, Sarasota 34233 941.840.4394 | suncoastscience.org

k u h S L E A R W E LOVE I S day sh

COME CHECK THESE OUT!

• American Idol contestant Shira Gavrielov on the Main Stage • Amiel Tours: Giveaways • Megemeria: Ethiopian-Israeli jewelry • Traditional Israeli Foods • Christian Goods and Judaica • Birthday Party for Israel in Kids Section • Children’s Choir from Community Day School • Israeli Music • Sights, Smells and Tastes of Israel!

For more information visit

jfedsrq.org/Israel70

Sun

4 1 y r a u m p us n a J Ca tionPM a r e Fed 12–5 580

sota ad, Sara o R h s nto M cI

JOIN US IN CELEBRATING

ISRAEL’S 70TH BIRTHDAY by attending our WE LOVE ISRAEL SHUK: a place for gathering, shopping, tasting new treats, finding new jewelry or Judaica, and experiencing life like an Israeli! Vendors will wow you with their challah covers, sparkling Ethiopian Israeli-made jewelry or the perfect mezuzah for your home. Musicians and speakers will share their love for Israel.

SION F R E E A DM I S

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE PICTURE that you or a family member took in Israel?

70

S P O N S O R E D

If so, please email a high resolution digital copy to israel70@jfedsrq.org and be sure to include a short note about where and when it was taken. Your submissions will be used to create the “Israel From the Eyes of the Community” display at the Shuk!

B Y

QUESTIONS? Contact Co-Chairs Rosann Black

at RosannIsrael70@gmail.com or Melissa Howard at MelissaIsrael70@gmail.com For more information, contact Jessi Sheslow at jsheslow@jfedsrq.org or 941.343.2109 DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

91

Van Wezel Foundation

Enriching Lives Through the Performing Arts

The Venice Symphony

Integrating quality musical performances, unique educational opportunities and accomplished musicians to enrich community experiences

For 30 years, The Van Wezel Foundation has operated as a partner, but independently, of the city-owned Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. It has directed millions of dollars in support of the Hall’s ongoing community outreach, capital improvements and award-winning education programs.

Each year, more than 30,000 students from four area counties are inspired and enriched by the arts through the Van Wezel Schooltime Performance Program, an integrative arts education program offered to schools that brings reading and classroom lessons to life on stage.

The program provides for grade-level curriculum, teacher training workshops and busing to transport students to the hall for a live performance.

Learning in, through and about the arts engages students on another level, increases understanding and often results in a lifelong appreciation for the arts. The Foundation invites you to join in its mission to inspire a child and enrich a life through the magic of the performing arts.

MISSION: “Create a world-class performing arts center that enriches the community, supports arts education and inspires young minds.”

The Venice Symphony is in its 44th season of presenting classical and pops concerts in South Sarasota County. In that time, it has grown significantly in size and stature. The orchestra now numbers 80 professional musicians performing at the state-of-the-art Venice Performing Arts Center. The Venice Symphony attracts nationally and internationally renowned conductors and soloists and received 164 applications for its recent conductor search.

A leader in music education for more than 25 years, The Venice Symphony partners with Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute for Symphony in the Schools, bringing an interactive curriculum, musicians and concert performance to thirdgrade students in Sarasota County. Summer Music Camp offers students of all ages, individual and group instruction and education, providing scholarships to families that cannot afford tuition. Venice Symphony donors support symphonic performances, accomplished musicians and music education programs for youth and adults in the community.

CONNECT >>> P.O. Box 1561, Venice 34284 941.207.8822 | thevenicesymphony.org

CONNECT >>> 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 34236 941.366.5578 | vwfoundation.org DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

93

Women’s Resource Center Manatee, Sarasota, Venice Programs that Fit Your Life

2

WAYS TO GET

SARASOTA SCENE

Sarasota Scene is available locally for purchase at: • Barnes & Noble • Books-A-Million • BookStore1 • Davidson’s Drugs

You can subscribe to Sarasota Scene: We have all encountered adversity in small and big ways.

At the Women’s Resource Center (WRC) we believe that we can learn from these setbacks and move forward to build a

• Phone – 941.365.1119, ext 305 • Email – subscriptions@scenesarasota.com • Online – scenesarasota.com

better future.

WRC is dedicated to women of all generations providing programs that encourage self-confidence and determination.

Programs include Peer Resource Advisors, trained volunteers offer an empathetic ear and assist the overwhelmed client chart a path to the resources they need; Employment Coaching and Mentoring guides those clients who are struggling with a job search; Mental Health Counseling, affordable, discreet counseling which addresses a variety of personal matters; WRC’s support groups include Challenge, addiction, Alzheimer’s support and unhealthy relationships; and Ask an Attorney provides family and immigration consultation to those of any socio-economic status.

At WRC, we have programs that fit your interest, your budget, your needs, your LIFE.

CONNECT >>> 941.256.9721 | MyWRC.org

94

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

BE INFORMED...

BE ENTERTAINED…

BE SCENE CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

FOR SALE

68' TRUMPY

ARE YOU THE ONE?

This elegant and historic boat needs a special owner who appreciates its glamour, style, workmanship and class!

Her integrity is that of the man for whom it was built multimillionaire socialite John Kimberly, founder

of Kimberly Clark - who entertained heads of state from around the world on this Rolls Royce of boats.

The boat is completely restored and every piece of its mahogany and double-planked white oak was completely refurbished.

For pricing, multiple charter options & details call Captain Jerry L Chitwood 36’ & 42’ Grand Banks and 50’ & 53’ Selenes Available for Charter. Visit website for more info.

941.383.5232 | Chitwood-Charters.com

In 1989 I purchased “Eco-Conscious Dry Cleaning”

Carlson Cleaners.

At 23 years old I worked

tirelessly as any young

ENTREPRENEUR

would do to grow their business.

I have learned the ins & outs

of running a smooth operation.

I think you will see this in our

QUALITY & SERVICE. Sincerely,

Don Carlson Sr. 3115 Southgate Circle Sarasota, Fl. 34239

(941) 275-4647

5193 Clark Road Sarasota, Fl. 34233

DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

95

A

few weeks ago, my family went to Culver’s for some of their oh-soyummy frozen custard as an after-dinner treat. One of my daughters slammed to a stop at the entrance. A small rock sitting on a window ledge had her mesmerized. On it was painted a cute ladybug, and when we inspected it, we discovered a little note on its underside:

96

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

POST ON: Sarasota Rocks on FB

#sarasotarocks Keep or Rehide!

"Everyone who gets involved has found the magical feel of giving back to the community."

My daughter HAD to take it home. Not long after, we bought a bag of rocks from Dollar Tree, dug out some acrylic paint and cheap-o brushes, and got to work ourselves. But the question lingered— what WAS the whole hide-a-rock/find-arock thing really about beyond an excuse to get artsy with paint and an unconventional natural canvas, of sorts?

A little sleuthing showed that the global Kindness Rocks Project has two main goals.

Goal #1: Inspire others through randomly-placed rocks that are decorated with inspirational messages or uplifting images.

Goal #2: Recruit every person who stumbles upon it to join in the pursuit of inspiring others through similar random acts of kindness.

The movement began in 2015 when Oprah Winfrey told Megan Murphy of Barnstable, Massachusetts, to find a way to help others. Murphy soon started picking up beach rocks, painting inspirational notes on them, and then leaving them for others to find. Her daughter pointed

out that all it’d take to turn this idea into something bigger was to include a hashtag. And that’s how the Kindness Rocks Project got born. Today, the project exists on all 7 continents and has been shared tens of millions of times.

Jules Farnsworth, the administrator of the Facebook group Sarasota Rocks, says that last November, she saw a video about Lakeland Rocks and the Kindness movement. Before long, the Sarasota Rocks page was up and running, and now it boasts 2k+ members. She notes that they’re the first Kindness Rocks Project group in Sarasota, though others have since emerged in Sarasota as well as Bradenton and Venice.

Farnsworth adds that “the most important thing people should know about the Kindness movement is that if they find a rock, please post it. We’re building connections between people in the community and the artists who want to see who found their rocks. It’s like a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow to see your rock posted.” She notes that some of her greatest friendships started exactly this way.

A similar movement—Peace Rocks— has been around since 2006. The main difference is that these rocks all have the word “peace” on them. President Obama and Vice President Biden both received Peace Rocks in 2011, and Peace Rocks can also be found all over the world.

“These movements offer a lot of lessons,” Farnsworth says. “One is for the artist to give without having the expectation of seeing their rocks again. That’s something we always battle. People want instant gratification and I only see 10% of my rocks posted yet I’ve put out thousands of them. But I’ve gained so many friends from this. Everyone who gets involved has found the magical feel of giving back to the community. We love seeing the smiling faces of people as they locate our hidden rocks.”

Farnsworth regularly holds rock painting events at places like North Water Tower Park and Brew Life Brewery. But it’s also pretty darn easy to grab some paint at a craft store like Michael’s, find or buy some rocks, and just get at it on your own. Best of all? Pro-level art skills aren’t required to create a huge impact in someone else’s life.

So keep an eye out for Kindness Rocks around Sarasota and consider posting the ones you find on Facebook with the #Sarasotarocks hashtag. Odds are, they might be ones that my daughters or I made. Maybe, too, we’ll put that ladybug back in circulation. Perhaps.

FOR MORE INFORMATION on Sarasota Rocks, please visit facebook.com/groups/sarasotarocks/ FOR MORE INFORMATION on the Kindness Rocks Project, please visit thekindnessrocksproject.com FOR MORE INFORMATION on Peace Rocks, please visit peacerocks.org DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

97

Blue Suede Shoes

Once

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE

DECKS HALLS THE

BY STEVEN J. SMITH | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHEW HOLLER

Once 98

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Blue Suede Shoes

Once

Once

Once

F

lorida Studio Theatre plans to unwrap two musical treats just in time for the upcoming holiday season — the Tony Award-winning musical “Once” and a rock and roll revue called “Blue Suede Shoes.”

“Once” tells the tale of a Dublin street musician about to give up on his dream when a beautiful young woman takes an interest in his haunting love songs. FST Producing Artistic Director Richard Hopkins and his wife, Rebecca Hopkins, said the production’s uniqueness drew them to it.

“It’s not your typical Broadway musical at all,” Hopkins said. “It has a very real subtlety and emotionally shifting moods of a different kind of theatre.” Rebecca Hopkins, who is FST’s managing director, agreed. “It’s one of those newer musicals that defies description,” she said. “There’s a great thing happening in American theater right now, where the line between a musical and a play is starting to get shaded. You have outright musicals and then plays with lots of music in them.”

“I think the musical ‘Hamilton’ helped move that form forward,” Richard added. “Sometimes you’re not really sure if you’re watching a play, an operetta or a musical. ‘Once’ is a piece of music telling a story. And it does so with a specificity we’re accustomed to here at FST, where you have twelve people on stage who all sing, act and play

musical instruments.”

Those instruments include cello, stand up bass, violin, ukulele, guitar, piano, harmonica and two different kinds of percussion pieces. In addition, FST plans to have an operating bar for this production, where audience members can buy a drink and hang out on stage with the cast as they perform a jam session before the show.

“We’ll be recreating a live Irish pub where the action takes place,” Rebecca said. “That’s to create intimacy, which is one of the great things about ‘Once.’

Although it’s a musical, it’s also a really intimate piece of theater. And by opening it up, it creates a real connection with the audience before the show even starts and continues right through intermission and to the end.”

“Blue Suede Shoes,” written by both Rebecca and Richard Hopkins, celebrates the birth of rock and roll with such hits as “Rock Around the Clock,” “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Mustang Sally” and “Johnny B. Goode,” among many others.

“Over the past few years we have been doing an exploration of a lot of 60s shows,” Rebecca said. “As we were writing this one, I kept hearing Elvis Presley. He was the influence, but I wanted to get to the core of why his sound was so influential. Once my research delved into the music of the 50s and where rock and roll came from — and how it evolved — it was a revelation. It’s incredible music. Some people dismiss it on the surface as bubble gum, but once you get into it you DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

99

127 S Pineapple Ave. | Downtown Sarasota www.MalbiDecor.com | Tel. (941) 953 - 3113

SARASOTA

GREAT GIFT FOR THE HOLIDAYS! HAND DIPPED CHOCOLATE TREATS CUSTOM GIFT BASKETS GREAT FOR HOSTESS GIFTS

DOWNTOWN SARASOTA 76 S. PALM AVENUE 1 00

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

discover there is something really different and exciting going on.”

“There’s something socially exciting going on, too,” Hopkins added. “The birth of rock and roll was really the beginning of the African-American and white races coming together musically, especially in the south. And that’s our storyline: the social storyline, the musical storyline and stories of the people that created it and spread it around.”

Some of those people include Ray Charles, James Brown and Chuck Berry, according to this production’s director, Catherine Randazzo.

“We call it guitar theater,” Randazzo said. “When people think of a cabaret, they probably envision a chanteuse in front of a piano. In this situation, Rebecca and Richard have found all different kinds of music and the various ways it’s played. This show needs guitars, drums and saxophone. And those people playing them are singing at the same time. So not only are they presenting a story through the music, they are the ones embodying its rhythms and are bringing that to the stage. It’s exciting. It’s electric.

And it makes for a dynamic evening of cabaret.”

“Once,” with book by Enda Walsh and music and lyrics by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová will play from November 8 to December 31 in the Gompertz Theatre, on the corner of Cocoanut and First Street in Sarasota. Single tickets range from $46-49 and four-show mainstage subscriptions that include this show cost $59.

“Blue Suede Shoes” will play from November 29 to April 1, 2018 in the Goldstein Cabaret, on Palm Avenue next to the Keating Theatre, which is located at 1241 N. Palm Ave. Single tickets range from $34-38, with a three-show cabaret subscription package starting at $39. For more information, call the box office at 941.366.9000 or visit floridastudiotheatre.org.

DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

101

Our Place or Yours, There’s Nothing Like an Event Catered by the Legendary Cafe L’Europe

Sarasota’s iconic Café L’Europe restaurant on St. Armands Circle has built an unparalleled reputation for its elegant and delicious European-inspired cuisine, award-winning wines, and professional service.

In one of our beautifully decorated private dining rooms or at the off-site place of your choice, let our catering staff create magic at your special event giving you and your guests an unforgettable five-star experience.

ESTABLISHED 1973 R EBORN AUGUST 2016

941.388.4415, Ext 4 | cafeleurope.net WEDDINGS | SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS | BUSINESS DINNERS/LUNCHEONS | HOLIDAY PARTIES | CATERING ALL EVENT SIZES & BUDGETS

on the town

Scenes from AN INTERVIEW: HEAR & NOW

by Gus Mollasis

Dr. Herb Silverstein & Mandy Harvey

DR. HERB SILVERSTEIN

H

e loves what he does each and every day and that is to help folks hear their world. Consistently named as one of the best physicians in America, Dr. Herb Silverstein has been a leader in making strides and innovations in otology — the science of the ear ­— for more than 30 years.

He is regarded internationally as a leading authority on Meniere’s disease, having received the prestigious Gold Medal Award from the Prosper Meniere Society for his work and contributions to treat the disease. Not bad for a kid from Philly who went to med school at Temple University and served on the teaching staff at Harvard.

In 1979, Dr. Silverstein founded Silverstein Institute and the Ear Research Foundation, where today he serves as its President, Medical Director and Director of Research.

The Foundation is close to the doctor’s heart and is built on a three-dimensional focus — research, education and treatment. What he has learned he has shared, teaching medical students, residents and fellows, while helping people from all walks of life.

You’d think that with all that on his plate he wouldn’t have to time to stop and smell the flowers of life a bit. But in his case, his flowers are the second passion of his life — jazz.

Introduced to him in the clubs of Philly in his youth by his father, Dr. Silverstein, or just Herb as he is known when he’s tapping the ivories, fell in love with this great American musical art form. So much so that up to now he’s produced some 13 jazz albums largely comprised and composed of his original works.

It should also come as no surprise that the good doctor was more than a little excited that Mandy Harvey, the deaf singer who rose to fame on this year’s America’s Got Talent, is coming to Sarasota to share her talents and focus the spotlight on the good work of the Ear Research Foundation. It is music to his ears. He couldn’t help but crack a smile at the thought of sharing perhaps a riff or two with the young singer. When I sat down with him after he saw his last patient of the day, I couldn’t wait to kick back and listen to some jazzy scenes from an interview of his life.

DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

103

on the town

What did your neighborhood as child sound like?

I lived in center city Philly on Pine Street and had a trolley running across the house, so we would always hear the trolley car. It was a brownstone. My father was a neuropsychologist and we lived above his office. It was always interesting and we could hear the sounds of the city.

What were the greatest lessons learned from your parents?

Dad told me to do the best that I can and always strive for the best, especially being Jewish. You got to be the best that you can ever be because you’re going to be discriminated upon. In those days, we had 10 percent of Jews who got into medical school, so it was hard to get in and you had to excel to get ahead. Mom stressed the same things and was a homemaker and actually worked as a secretary for my father.

When did you first realize that you were cut out to be a doctor? Was it a calling?

My father was neuropsychologist and so he had patients at the city hospital. When I was 10 years, he would take me on rounds with him. I would see him seeing all his patients, all these varied cases.

1 04

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

I didn’t know that I wasn’t supposed to be anything but a doctor. I thought this is what you do.

Follow your father around. Everybody seemed to love him. It was interesting because he arranged for me to have a residency in neurosurgery. And he had this all arranged when I was 10 years old.

He was a professor at Temple University.

As I grew up he told me that I was going to be neurosurgeon because he was a neurologist. He said neurosurgery is great. You go into the brain and you can help people. So that’s how I was set up to being a neurosurgeon from the time I was kid. My father was the biggest influence on me becoming a doctor and he was proud of me.

Tell me about those early days as doctor.

I went to Philadelphia General and was given the neurosurgeon rotation the first month as an intern. I was up all night and the patients were dying so I got very depressed with neurosurgery. I didn’t think that it was a very good thing to do.

There wasn’t a lot of happiness in that field so I decided not to go into it. I was set up with residency and everything, but

I canceled, and I had to figure out what I was going to do. I knew I was going to be surgeon because I was good with my hands and I built trains. I was looking for something and it just so happened that ear surgery was just in its infancy in the late 1950s. The microscope that allowed us to operate on the ear was just invented and you could look in and see the structures of the ear. It made the ear look very large so you could operate with your hands. This was a brandnew field just starting at Temple, so I got very excited. There was very little research being done and the field was just coming of age. I’ve always been in research and development from the time I was a little kid. So, I was bumping into guys who were otolaryngologists (ear, nose and throat) and they told me what a great field it was and that I should go into this field because it was new and needed a lot of research. I was into that. It all fit together and I was very excited about getting into it. Then a mentor of mine, Dr. Gene Meyers, persuaded me to go to Harvard with him and I became a part of that program for eight years. I was on the staff and did a lot of teaching, and that’s how I got started. These were the pioneer days in the field.

How much has recent technology helped move your field light years ahead in helping patients?

Technology with computers and such did amazing things for all specialties, especially cochlear implant. It was allowed to expand because the computer was able to code speech so the person could actually understand language.

When people ask you what you do, what do you tell them?

I’ve been in research and development and teaching and that’s why I started the Ear Research Foundation in 1979, to continue doing research, teaching and education. I’ve been involved in

on the town

THE BULLET HOLE “Florida’s Oldest Gun Store”

training young doctors for years. We’ve trained 44 physicians in ear surgery, and I’ve developed a lot of techniques that are used now. I taught young doctors how to do it and they go around the country and spread the word and keep expanding the knowledge.

What are you most proud of out all your accomplishments?

Vestibular Neurectomy was my biggest development. Being able to cut the balance nerve in Meneire’s disease and save the hearing and doing it through the ear. Neurosurgeons had done it through the skull, which was a big operation. I developed an operation that goes through the ear.

Does your love of music as a jazz pianist help bridge the gap in terms of empathy with your patients?

It’s an amazing thing to be able to hear and create. I empathize with people who can’t hear. But today nobody has to be deaf. Compared to ophthalmology—you can’t make a blind person see—but you can make a deaf person hear with cochlear implants. So, we are now ahead of them in the research. It’s a wonderful thing to be able help people with their hearing so they can hear the music. I give them my music when I’m going to operate on them. It’s a kick. It’s a thrill.

How much do you love music?

The passion starts when you’re a kid. My parents always played classical music— Bach, Beethoven and all that stuff when I was growing up. And I played it when I was a little kid. My mom played the piano and my father loved music, so I think it runs in the genes. You grow up hearing music. I fell in love with jazz in the 1950s, but my parents wouldn’t let me play jazz because they called it noise.

My father took me to the jazz joints when I was 16 in Philly, but I didn’t start playing jazz until I was 48.

Is your daily routine as a doctor in surgery ever routine to you?

No. It’s never routine. And jazz improvisation is very similar to surgery. There are many aspects that are very similar. First

Located in the heart of Downtown Sarasota since 1947.

Specializes in Firearms, Liberty Safes & Accessories.

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays from our family to yours

The Misantone family, from left: Stella, Barbara, Dasher (dog), Brooke (standing), Francis & Alexandra

941-957-1996 | 330 South Orange Avenue Don’t worry, we have plenty of parking!

A

Christmas Carol ALSO PLAYING IN DECEMBER     

Thru Dec 10: A Christmas Story, the Musical Thru Dec 23: The Santaland Diaries (adults only!)

Dec 3 & 4: The Ultimate Tribute to the King starring Dwight Icenhower Dec 22 & 23: The Sounds of Christmas w. the Ditchfield Family Singers Dec. 29 - 31: The American Swing Experience

TICKETS & INFO: 941.488.1115 | VeniceStage.com DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

105

on the town of all, you have to be very tedious and innovative when you’re a surgeon. That’s similar to the piano. You have to be very delicate with your hands. It’s a similar kind of job because a lot of times a surgeon goes in there and we find things we don’t expect and you have to improvise –- exactly like you do with music.

Open 7 Days A Week 1439 Main St. Sarasota | 941-373-6333 www.RUESRQ.com

Give the Gift of Live Theatre Gift Certificates Available!

(941) 748-5875 | ManateePerformingArtsCenter.com 1 06

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Tell my why The Ear Research Foundation is so important you?

It’s so important because we do research, education and community service. That’s why I started it. We do education and teach the public about hearing problems and balance problems of dizziness. And we teach young doctors the same thing.

We give lectures and are one of the leading research centers in the country. We’re affiliated with many learning institutions and are the closest thing to an academic center that is out of the academic world.

How excited are you about the event with the amazing Mandy Harvey coming to Sarasota? Did you watch her on America’s Got Talent?

I’m really excited. And yes, I watched her on the show. She was amazing. It’s hard to believe what she did.

You’re in the field and you see what you can do with your doctor’s hands and your jazz. Are you amazed that she’s able to do what she does and how she does it?

Yes. She can do it because she’s been singing since she was four years old when she could hear. She was able to sing for more than ten years before she went deaf. And the way she can follow what’s going on is through vibrations in her feet — from the drumming. She takes her shoes off and can feel the vibrations so she knows the songs.

And I’m sure the musicians can follow her along too. It’s amazing that she can do it and there’s not many people that can do it.

If you would like to “Give the Gift of Hearing” by helping the Ear Research Foundation’s mission of research, education and community service, you can make a tax-deductible donation by visiting earsinus.com or call 941.365.0367 for more information.

on the town

MANDY HARVEY

W

hen you hear her sing it will touch your heart forever. Her voice is special and the way she interprets a song is something to behold. Quite remarkable, since she lost her hearing when she was 19 years old.

But Mandy Harvey doesn’t want you to feel bad or sympathetic to her plight. In fact, she only wants you to hear and feel the music when you listen to her perform, and smile.

Finishing fourth on America’s Got Talent’s 12th season in 2017, the 29-year American jazz-pop singer and songwriter has a lot of reasons to smile. In her words, she’s living her dream, because that’s exactly what it feels like to her when she sings — a dream.

Born in Cincinnati, Harvey had hearing problems and underwent several surgeries as a child to correct them. After moving to Colorado, singing songs filled her childhood days and others began to recognize her talent. When she lost her hearing while majoring in singing education at Colorado University, she had to leave school, but it never stopped her from singing.

After performing in various clubs in the Denver area, she recorded several jazz albums. Jazz Times said of her debut album Smile: “the vocals are rich and captivating.”

Harvey is altruistic. She believes in sharing her stories and talents as a way to inspire people. So much so that she’s the ambassador for the nonprofit organization No Barriers, which helps people with disabilities overcome obstacles. Recently she penned a memoir with co-author Mark Atteberry titled Sensing the Rhythm: Finding My Voice in a World Without Sound.

Mandy Harvey uses visual tuners to help her find pitches and takes her shoes off when she performs so that she can feel the song and music. She is something special and something to behold. When you hear her sing it will touch your heart and even make the hardest hearts smile.

She is excited to be heading to Sarasota to be a part of the Hear and Now Gala at the Opera House on December 15 benefiting the Ear Research Foundation, which was founded by Dr. Herb Silverstein. The Foundation does so much good work in helping people overcome hearing disabilities.

Nowadays, the very busy Mandy Harvey is making her way around the country singing, writing songs, living her dream and of course making people smile. That’s why I couldn’t wait to see what the young songbird had to share regarding her remarkable life as we took a look at some scenes from an interview of her life.

DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

107

on the town

MICHELLE CRABTREE Broker Associate, REALTOR® A third-generation local and broker associate since 1982, Michelle is dedicated to serving your needs in Sarasota, Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch.

941.724.4663 michelle.crabtree@premiersir.com crabtreehomes.com

PREMIERSOTHEBYSREALTY.COM Each office is independently owned and operated.

It doesn’t need to be NEW to be

AWESOME! Voted Sarasota’s #1 Consignment Store

AWARDING MORE THAN $8 MILLION LOCALLY IN GRANTS & SCHOLARSHIPS

There’s no limit to the BARGAINS you’ll FIND! Supporting the local ART Community for more than 50 years.

Volunteer • Donate • Consign • Shop

539 S. ORANGE | 941-955-7859 | OPEN MON-FRI 9-4 & SAT 10-4 | www.sarasotawex.com 1 08

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

How much do you relate and model yourself after these lyrics in your song Smile: ”If you smile through your fear and sorrow, smile and maybe tomorrow, you’ll see the sun come shining through?”

“Smile” for me means a lot. When I was losing my hearing, I thought I would forget every song I had ever heard so I picked “Smile” to sing all day every day, because if I was going to lose them, I’d lose all but one. The meaning has changed. Initially it meant that I’m not seeing a smile on the horizon, but it would be really beautiful if I could. Then it transitioned to meaning that I’m not smiling right now, but I know I will smile someday. Today it means I’m smiling, and I hope you smile with me.

What most inspires you to perform and how is it different from when you sit down to write a song?

People inspire me the most to perform. I don’t get the benefit of hearing the final product. I just want to convey my stories to make people smile, so my drive is to encourage other people. When I sit down to write a song, I’m just telling stories that are in my mind. It has nothing to do with any expectation or goal, I just want to be as honest as possible.

What is that one bit of advice that you would give any artist who is struggling with their “invisible disabilities,” trying to make it in life as well as in their desired field of creation?

To celebrate the small victories that I think everybody wants to have, and grand moments of reward. But the biggest reward is living a life following your passion and expressing yourself.

What is the biggest challenge in doing what you do, and the part of creating and performance that comes most easy to you?

The biggest challenge I deal with is overcoming my own fear of failure and moving past those fears to do things that I didn’t believe I could do. The part that comes easiest is enjoying working as part of a team on stage with the other musicians and knowing that I have my stories and they’re being shared.

on the town

FINISH THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE...

When I’m singing, the feeling I get is most like...

Dreaming. If I think too hard at the work I’m doing it is terrifying, so instead I focus on the song, and breathing life into the meanings behind it.

How big a part does attitude and humor play in your overall well-being and ability to do all the wonderful things that you do?

I truly believe you need to be able to laugh at yourself. Life’s hard enough if you have to take everything so seriously.

When I fall, when I trip, when I make a mistake, instead of being mortified that I did something imperfect, I laugh and say: “I was me.”

Is there a mantra or song that you live by?

What’s within you is stronger than what’s in your way.

If you had one night when you could see and hear a number of the artists who have inspired you, who would they be, what songs would they be singing, and where would they be singing them?

It’s a difficult question. I fell in love with 60s and 70s jazz so there’s so many artists that come to mind, but I honestly don’t feel the need to hear them because they play in my head constantly.

What do you hope people feel and take home with them when they hear you sing?

I want people to dream for a moment and to know that they’re not alone in whatever they’re going through, that we can smile, we can laugh together, and we can go through the hard moments together as well.

EVENT DETAILS: HEAR & NOW GALA Mandy Harvey Friday, December 15, 2017 SARASOTA OPERA HOUSE Gala Dinner with Premium Concert Seating $250 There will be a Complimentary After Party in the Opera House Courtyard.

Cash bar | Music by Dr. Silverstein |

What do you want to be when you grow up?

What is the greatest thing that music does for your soul?

It allows me to express myself. I was always a painfully shy child and a person who is socially awkward, so music to me was my way of saying how I felt without the pressure of people knowing.

Help artist Georgia achieve her dream.

Invest in our community’s professionals one graduate at a time.

Investments can be made in the form of recurring or one-time donations, equipment, supplies, and/or scholarships to help students reach their graduation milestone.

Contact Barbara Bourgoin 941-752-5398 or bourgob@SCF.edu

Complimentary Pastries and Coffee.

Concert-Only Tickets Starting at $19 Available Through Sarasota Opera Box Office 941.328.1300 | sarasotaopera.org For info contact: Jennifer Moss – jmoss@earsinus.com

SCF-Foundation.org DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

109

arts&culture Leann Rimes Christmas Tour Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Best SEATS PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR

ARTIST SERIES CONCERTS 941.306.1200 / artistseriesconcerts.org Piano Arts Award Winner Aristo Sham December 3 – 4 Cool Yule – June Garber December 16 – 17

ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE 941.351.8000 / asolorep.org Evita Through December 30

THE CIRCUS ARTS CONSERVATORY 941.355.9805 / circusarts.org Sailor Circus “The High-Flying Holidays” December 27 – 30

CHORAL ARTISTS OF SARASOTA

HISTORIC ASOLO THEATER

941.387.6046 / choralartistssarasota.org Too Hot to Handel December 10

941.306.1200 / ringling.org Artist Series Concerts Through May 20

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE

941.475.6756 / lemonbayplayhouse.com Over the River and Through the Woods Through December 17

Annie Jr. December 9 Annie Through December 17 Flowers for Algernon Through December 17 Decades Rewind: Sleigh Ride December 22 – 23 DaVinci & Michelangelo: The Titans Experience December 28 – 30

MANATEE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

THE PERLMAN MUSIC PROGRAM/SUNCOAST

941.748.5875 / manateeperformingartscenter.com The Nutcracker December 2

941.955.4942/ perlmanmusicprogramsuncoast.org Sarasota Winter Residency December 21 – January 6

941.366.9000 / floridastudiotheatre.org Once Through December 31 Mack the Knife: The Bobby Darin Songbook Through February 4 Blue Suede Shoes Through April 1 Heisenberg December 13 – March 4 1 10

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

LEMON BAY PLAYHOUSE

arts&culture Artist Series Concerts Piano Arts Award Winner – Aristo Sham

THE PLAYERS CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS 941.365.2494 / theplayers.org The 1940s Radio Hour December 7 – 23

THE SARASOTA BALLET 941.359.0099 / sarasotaballet.org Metropolitan December 1 – 2 John Ringling’s Circus Nutcracker December 15 – 16

SARASOTA ORCHESTRA 941.953.3434 / sarasotaorchestra.org Masterworks 2: Symphonic Carnival December 8 – 10 Great Escapes 2: Home for the Holidays December 20 – 23

STATE COLLEGE OF FLORIDA 941.752.5000 / scf.edu Neel Performing Arts Center Choirs, SCF Bradenton Symphony Orchestra and Guitar Ensemble: “Holiday Joy” December 1 SCF Big Band & Jazz Combo: Jazz from Pearl Harbor, A Veterans Tribute December 7

“More Advanced than Platelet Rich Plasma, Restore™ is a different type of cellular therapy that has a remarkable ability to promote healing.”

– Dr. Joe Greco, PhD, PA/C

Sundays at Neel: The Four Freshmen, Snowfall Holiday Concert December 10

URBANITE THEATRE 941.321.1397 / UrbaniteTheatre.com Echoes Through December 17

VAN WEZEL PERFORMING ARTS HALL 941.955.7676 / vanwezel.org Buddy The Buddy Holly Story December 1 & 5 An Irish Tenors Christmas December 2 Leann Rimes Today is Christmas Tour December 3 Choral Artists of Sarasota: Too Hot to Handel December 10 98 Degrees At Christmas December 11 Sarasota Ballet: John Ringling’s Circus Nutcracker December 15 – 16 A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage December 17 Cirque Dreams Holidaze December 21 A Christmas Carol December 22

The internationally renowned Greco Medical Group in Sarasota has been at the forefront of developing patented, proprietary processes using growth factors and other healing components from a patient’s own blood for a wide variety of regenerative purposes from cosmetics to orthopedics.

Now, Dr. Greco introduces a natural, and potent tool of birth and renewal from amniotic fluid • Tendons, Ligaments & Joints • Cosmetic Enhancements • Hair Restoration

Dr. Greco’s work has been featured in Vogue, The New York Times, U.S. News & World Report, Men’s Journal, and USA Today. He has pioneered biologic treatments for Alopecia Areata and Androgenic Alopecia, and these results were included in an international study published in the prestigious American Journal of Dermatologic Surgery.

941.952.3300 | GrecoMedicalGroup.com DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

111

artist surgeon.”

“I was an before I was a

– Dr. Alissa Shulman

BODY SCULPTING • BREAST AUGMENTATION LIPOSUCTION • TUMMY TUCKS • BREAST LIFT ARM & THIGH LIFTS • ARM & THIGH LIFD

Sovereign Plastic Surgery Alissa M. Shulman M.D., F.A.C.S. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon 941.366.LIPO (5476) • www.SovereignPS.com 1950 Arlington Street, Suite 112 • Sarasota, FL 34239 2016-2017 Sarasota Memorial Hospital Physician of the Year

arts&culture Moscow Ballet Great Russian Nutcracker December 29

VENICE INSTITUTE FOR PERFORMING ARTS 941.480.3191 / veniceperformingartscenter.com Venice High School Chorus: Ye Olde Yuletide Madrigal Feaste December 1 – 2 Magnificent Joy: Songs of the Holidays December 3 Venice Concert Band: Sounds of the Season – 2017 December 4 Sarasota Cuban Ballet School: The Nutcracker December 9 VHS Chorus Winter Concert December 14 Holiday Pops Conductor: Wesley Schulz December 15 – 16 Swing’N the Holidays: The Jive Aces December 17

VENICE THEATRE 941.488.1115 / venicestage.com A Christmas Story: The Musical Through December 10 The Santaland Diaries Through December 23 The Ultimate Tribute to the King starring Dwight Icenhower December 3 – 4 A Christmas Carol December 15 – 21 The Sounds of Christmas with the Ditchfield Family Singers December 22 – 23 The American Swing Experience December 29 – 31

WESTCOAST BLACK THEATRE TROUPE 941.366.1505 / westcoastblacktheatre.org A Motown Christmas Through December 23

1 12

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

arts&culture

GET Inspired CULTURAL HAPPENINGS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE ARTS AND CULTURAL ALLIANCE OF SARASOTA COUNTY

leadership of Debora Spar (now President and CEO of Lincoln Center).

Before her tenure at Barnard, Jamie managed corporate and foundation grants for the renowned Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and also worked in development and management for the New York Botanical Garden and Ice Theatre of New York. She has also produced major events and performances throughout the U.S. and around the globe.

In addition to these impressive achievements, Jamie is a trained actor, dancer/choreographer, singer, figure skater, and yoga instructor. She is also a proud member of the board of Sarasota Contemporary Dance.

AMANDA MARIE MASON

The beaming light that is our local arts scene shines even brighter because of the vibrant and charming Jamie Coffey.

For the past two years, she’s served as Special Assistant to Dr. Larry Thompson, President of Ringling College of Art and Design, working closely with Dr. Thompson in all areas of the College and the community at large.

Throughout her career, Jamie has worked in both higher education and the non-profit sector, with five of those years as Chief of Staff to the President and Interim Director of Alumnae Affairs at Barnard College/Columbia University under the

JAMIE COFFEY We asked this arts enthusiast how and why the arts in Sarasota influence and inspire her: “The Arts are the fabric of my life, so when I decided to move back to Florida after living in New York City for over 15 years, I knew the only place I would live was Sarasota. There was no other option. I was drawn here by the incredible arts and higher education institutions, along with the diverse healing arts throughout the area—and, of course, the beautiful beaches. Living in a place that is teeming with creative energy, spirituality, and nature just seems a perfect fit, and I’m filled with gratitude for the amazing group of creative beings who have come into my life since my leap of faith to move here six years ago. Namaste.”

DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

113

arts&culture

GET Inspired UPCOMING CULTURAL HAPPENINGS

Inspiring EVENTS PEOPLE, EVENTS & PLACES SHAPING OUR RICH CULTURAL LANDSCAPE

Englewood Art Center, a Division of Ringling College of Art and Design presents: Coastal Contemporary, a joint exhibition.

TIM JAEGER, JAVIER RODRIGUEZ, STEVE STRENK MITCHELL GALLERY THROUGH DECEMBER 14 Tim Jaeger has emerged as a leading artist, maintaining his Sarasota studio while working towards engaging the community and fostering new artistic partnerships. regeaj.com

Javier Rodriguez uses strong line work, simple and sometimes provocative concepts, and has an unstoppable urge for creating, resulting in work that is bold and unmistakable.

Steven Strenk’s work relies on our desire for beauty and intrigue, which allows him to delve into the relationship of the real and the abstract, reinforcing a conversation between color and texture.

ENGLEWOOD ART CENTER 350 S MCCALL RD., ENGLEWOOD (941) 474-5548 | RINGLING.EDU/EAC

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium presents Sea Debris: Awareness through Art EXHIBIT: DECEMBER 9 - JUNE 15 Mote Aquarium visitors can view the new Sea Debris art exhibit, featuring realistic yet whimsical larger-than-life marine-inspired sculptures made entirely of plastic and other debris gathered from the Oregon coastline. They will fascinate and educate children, the young at heart and all those who seek creative solutions to environmental challenges.

MOTE MARINE LABORATORY & AQUARIUM 1600 KEN THOMPSON PARKWAY, SARASOTA MOTE.ORG/SEADEBRIS

Dabbert Gallery presents A Holiday Symphony of Art OPENING RECEPTION WITH ARTISTS: DECEMBER 1, 6:00 – 9:00 P.M. EXHIBIT: DECEMBER 1 - 31 TUESDAY – SATURDAY, 11:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. Celebrate the holidays at Dabbert Gallery with featured works by the gallery artists.

DABBERT GALLERY | 46 S PALM AVE, SARASOTA | (941) 955-1315 DABBERTGALLERY.COM

1 14

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

arts&culture

Bookstore1Sarasota presents Zebo Ludvicek’s launch of Mouse BOOK SIGNING: DECEMBER 2 11:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. Meet this delightful artist and author, known for her mural at The Monkey Bar at the Colony on Longboat Key, and celebrate the publication of her first picture book, Mouse.

BOOKSTORE1SARASOTA 12 S PALM AVE, SARASOTA (941) 365-7900 SARASOTABOOKS.COM

Island Gallery West presents Land and Sea Acrylic and Watercolor Paintings Exhibition by Maria Sine The Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County presents 17th Annual Principals’ Luncheon: The Arts = Success DECEMBER 6, 11:30 A.M. – 1:30 P.M. VAN WEZEL PERFORMING ARTS HALL Join the Alliance in honoring Sarasota County Schools’ principals and their work in arts education. Featuring Booker Middle School theater students and a high school/EOD-World Rowing Championships art exhibit.

Tickets are $50. Please RSVP to: bit.ly.2A4rIHY For questions, please contact Donna De Poalo at ddepoalo@sarasotaarts.org or (941) 365-5118 x301.

PUBLIC RECEPTION: DECEMBER 1, 5:30 - 8:30 P.M. EXHIBIT: DECEMBER 1 – 30 MONDAY – SATURDAY, 10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. Bradenton artist Maria Sine presents Land and Sea, an exhibit of vibrant watercolor and acrylic paintings of distant lands and the creatures found in and around our local waters. A public gallery reception on Friday, December 1 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. is part of Holmes Beach Merchants’ Holiday Party.

ISLAND GALLERY WEST 5368 GULF DR., HOLMES BEACH ON ANNA MARIA ISLAND (941) 778-6648 | ISLANDGALLERYWEST.COM

ARTS AND CULTURAL ALLIANCE OF SARASOTA COUNTY 1226 N. TAMIAMI TRAIL, SUITE 300, SARASOTA (941) 365-5118 SARASOTAARTS.ORG

DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

115

arts&culture

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens presents:

NEW TO THE AREA AND NOT SURE WHERE TO BUY?

White House Decorator Coleen Christian Burke EVENT: DECEMBER 6 11:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. Celebrate the holiday season with a special Selby Gardens luncheon featuring White House Decorator and author, Coleen Christian Burke, who served on a White House holiday decorating team under First Ladies Laura Bush and Michelle Obama.

Whether you are looking to buy a new home or sell your existing home we can assist you.

There are many real estate companies and Realtors® to choose from, so we would be honored to speak with you regarding your real estate sale or purchase.

DON’T WANT TO BE JUST ANOTHER LISTING? We aim to provide personal service that only a small, locally-owned company can provide.

Michael Edwards has been a licensed real estate broker since 2002 and has more than 25 years of experience in managing and selling real estate in Sarasota.

Wine & Design

MICHAEL B. EDWARDS

EVENT: DECEMBER 7 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. Workshops hosted by local floral design experts paired with food and wine overlooking Sarasota Bay.

LICENSED REAL ESTATE BROKER

941.302.4812 500 S. WASHINGTON BLVD, SUITE 400 SARASOTA,FLORIDA 34236 WWW.SOLUTIONSSARASOTA.COM

I OFFER

HOME INSURANCE

OPTIONS

Lights in Bloom EVENT: DECEMBER 21 – 23 & 26 – 30, 6:00 – 9:00 P.M. Over one million lights will illuminate the garden and walkways will be transformed into sensory light tunnels with beautifully lit flowers, radiant rainforest butterflies, dragonflies and more. The tropical holiday paradise includes nightly visits from Santa and his elves (before Christmas Eve), children’s arts and crafts activities and games, plus live nightly entertainment.

Here in Florida, your choice is clear.

Everyone likes options. My office not only offers car insurance backed by a company with 80 years of experience, but also offers home insurance from several companies. Call me today!

George Dakkak, CLU, ChFC 941-921-6630

Allstate has no financial responsibility to you for any home insurance policy you purchase and would not be responsible for any claims.

Allstate does not make any representations or accept liability related to operations of home insurance companies, including, but not limited to, their financial conditions. Subject to terms, conditions and availability. © 2012 Allstate Insurance Co.

1 16

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

104381

3629 Webber Street, Suite A Sarasota georgedakkak@allstate.com

MARIE SELBY BOTANICAL GARDENS 811 S PALM AVE, SARASOTA (941) 366-5731 | SELBY.ORG

arts&culture

LITERARY Scene

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

RYAN REVIEWS THREE BOOKS WITH THREE-WORD TITLES

THE CHEAPSKATE’S HANDBOOK

by Mifflin Lowe

BLACK MOON RISING

by D.J. MacHale I had another book scheduled to cover this month, but my 10-year-old daughter saw this book and stole it, read it, and reported that “it’s really pretty good.” Black Moon Rising—book 2 in The Library series—is targeted for ages 8-12, so I figured who better to assess this new MacHale title than my kid? It tells the story of Marcus, an agent for the Library—a magical place that exists outside of normal time and that’s filled with books that require help to reach a satisfying end. Each book in the series has Marcus and his friends travel through a magic portal to set matters right. It’s never easy, though, because there’s as much danger (witches, ravens, and wolves) as there is fun.

More important—here are my daughter’s remarks on the book.

“I KNEW that magic caused the windows to explode at the middle school.”

“I like that Marcus is so funny. And smart.”

“I want to read Book 1 now.”

This is a very nice middle grade fantasy book that plenty of older readers—that’s you, Sarasota Scene book-lovers—could enjoy as well. It works fine enough without having read Book 1 in the series so long as you understand the basic premise about how Marcus and his friends can leap into unfinished books to prevent disaster and help reach a worthwhile ending.

Rating:

The 2.0 reissue of local author Mifflin Lowe’s book, The Cheapskate’s Handbook, comes with a well-earned warning: “This book is gluten-free, tongue-in-cheek, and off-the-wall.

Reading may cause sudden, unexpected physical reactions, including guffaws, snorts, and chuckles. For full disclosure, see inside.”

The warning is well-earned because this book is fun.

Whether you truly have some Scrooge in your DNA or not, it’s hard to take the Miserliness Aptitude Test (page 5), explore the Roommate Fee List (page 30), or read the “How to Avoid Taking Your Spouse or Significant Other to a Movie” chapter and not crack a smile. Or more.

Lowe is irreverent, silly, and quite often over the top. He also stars in many of the photographs, from the book cover to the aluminum foil ironing on page 230, that’s him!

It’s an enjoyable book whether you read it cover to cover or plunge in for a laugh here and there. Some of my personal favs? Chapter 4.2 (Extended Family: Do You Really Want to Know These People), Chapter 5.2 (You’re Not Getting Older, You’re Getting Cheaper: Growing Old Disgracefully), and Chapter 6.6 (Partying: Such Cheap Sorrow).

Don’t worry, too, about this being outdated. It’s a 2.0 edition, after all, so he gives you the cheapskate view on Uber, Lyft, Miley Cyrus, and more.

Read frugally, and maybe one day you might make it into Lowe’s Cheapskates Hall of Fame!

Rating:

djmachalebooks.com DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

117

arts&culture

THE HEDGECOCK FRIASKO

by Rick Hussey Fort Lauderdale author Rick Hussey’s debut thriller, The Hedgecock Friasko, follows the story of Stephen Foerster, who gets caught in the middle of a Ponzi scheme and dirty fracking operation that’s all thanks to his ex-boss’ greed.

Even a fake identity isn’t enough to get Foerster away from a PI, detectives, and an assassin.

It’s not exactly John D. MacDonald and his self-described salvage consultant/hero Travis McGee, but Hussey’s story does feature punchy sentences, a well-described rendering of Fort Lauderdale, and a complex plot that does come together satisfyingly in the end.

Here’s a sense of the often-staccato cadence Hussey creates. See what you think.

Now, people were polite but reserved. She had difficulty finding foursomes for tennis or golf.

Of course, there were no more parties or dinners.

She received fewer and fewer invitations to lunch or shopping. Recently she had stopped going to the club altogether. She’d said it didn’t matter.

“This will pass,” she’d reasoned.

If Hussey’s next books continue to use a world he knows well (he’s a civil trial lawyer) and a setting he’s passionate about (like his Fort Lauderdale home), his literary future can be bright. Though a stronger book design and cover would be quite welcome, too.

Rating:

trimarkpress.com/authors/rick-hussey/

BE ON THE LOOKOUT in Sarasota Scene’s January 2018 issue for Ryan Van Cleave’s new column! Ryan will share his thoughts on community happenings - the good, the bad and the ugly. But don’t worry! Ryan will still be recommending great reads by local or Florida authors as Literary Scene returns again in 2018.

1 18

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

s

insider

InHEALTH

By Dr. Sumeet Bhanot

PLUMP UP THE VOLUME ? IS THE OVER-FILLED FACE BECOMING A FASHION TREND ?

Sumeet Bhanot, MD, FACS is a Yale University trained double board certified Facial Plastic Surgeon.

In this age of social media, it has become commonplace to witness the successes and pitfalls associated with the use of volume in the form of injectable dermal fillers and fat. The current trend of rounded faces can be seen everywhere you look which leaves me to ponder: Will the cherubic faces of the twenty-tens be ubiquitous to the Jennifer Aniston shag haircuts that were so popular in the nineteen-nineties? Now that we are able to alter our appearances so dramatically, the effects on our facial contours may become as changeable as with trends such as hair and fashion.

Does this look natural? Is this the ideal? Is this truly what we are after? When I see patients in consultation the answer is almost always a resounding “NO”! Why is this trend so popular? Is this a situation where the solution dictates the problem as opposed to the problem dictating the solution? Are we injecting volume because it is easy and readily available?

Aging is a complex process that involves all facets of the face: skin, fat, fascia, muscle and bone. It is the culmination of the downward vector pull of gravity on the interconnected anatomic weave of the facial structures. We first notice the loss of the cheek bones. In reality, it is the fat pad covering the cheek bones that descends downwards in a pendulum fashion from the upper cheek to the mouth. The fat gathers above the laugh lines, deepening these lines while the fat from the lower cheek descends vertically, effacing the jawline and creating the jowl.

This creates a relative excess of volume in the area around the mouth and a paucity of volume in upper cheek. This creates disharmony in the facial volume distribution.

How do we correct this problem? Well, as is always true in life – it depends on the severity. If someone is fairly young and these changes are minor, we can use volume to fill in the void

of the upper cheeks and a small amount of fillers in the areas around the mouth to alleviate the hallmarks of early aging. If done judiciously, it creates a wonderful illusion of fullness and youth. We must remember that we are not lifting the volume that has fallen, we are just adding to the area to create this illusion.

In the case of more advanced aging the volume solution is not so simple; we are unable to compensate for the imbalance in the face. If we add a great deal of volume to the upper face to compensate for the descent of the fat pads, we inadvertently create an overly filled, round face.

Our efforts, while sincere, are the genesis of the problem of the overly filled, plump face. In this case the solution is not “volume”.

The solution is to raise these fallen fat pads to their original location using a very unique technique known as a “Deep Plane Facelift”, to restore a harmonious

did you know?

A very unique technique to regain a youthful appearance is the “Deep Plane Facelift,” which can make you look decades younger.

youthful, heart shaped face.

This results in patients looking decades younger without anyone suspecting anything was done at all.

We are all born with a natural beauty, my priority is to restore it, not distort it! I use fillers in my practice to help postpone and augment a deep plane facelift – The key in surgery and in life is always to restore harmony!

Dr. Bhanot practices at 2038 Bee Ridge Rd., Sarasota.

941.966.3223

DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

119

on the town

Real TALK SHERYL VIEIRA SHARES THOUGHTS ON THE COMMUNITY, GOOD DEEDS AND IMPORTANT THINGS, BIG AND SMALL.

Sarasota is greatly blessed with significant arts programs, performances and talent.

As well, it offers an undeniable depth and wealth of research and science. With the sheer number of operas, symphonies, circus acts, theater productions, ballet performances and the like, it’s no wonder world-renowned scientists and researchers are coming to our area in droves to study, learn, work and expand upon Mote’s growing research enterprise. They are having a momentous impact on conservation and sustainable use of our oceans due to the diverse backgrounds of all involved. Let’s celebrate the arts and sciences, shall we?

CELEBRATING THE ARTS The annual celebration of the arts hosted by the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County brought over 400 guests a glimpse into the coming season with performances by the Choral Artists of Sarasota, singer Michael Mendez, the Venice Theatre and a thrilling jam-packed performance by the extremely talented and thrilling Circus Arts Conservatory’s Sailor Circus. The crowd loved them all as each group entertained in between the sponsor recognition and award presentations. The awards program is a way to announce the annual grants for Tourist and Development Council taxes, collected specifically to support the arts. This year, close to $2 million in TDC grants were distributed to three dozen area organizations.

1 20

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Art leadership awards were bestowed upon four significant leaders to commemorate and celebrate those who have made contributions to the arts and are actively engaged in the cultural life of Sarasota County.

Sharon and Steve Dickman were honored for the numerous volunteer hours they give so freely to the Sarasota Opera, The Sarasota Ballet, Sarasota Orchestra, Asolo Rep, Historic Asolo Theater, Mote Marine Aquarium (where Steve wears a shark costume as Gilly, Mote’s mascot!), The Players Centre for Performing Arts, Florida Studio Theatre, Circus Arts Conservatory, Sarasota Film Festival, The Haven, Easterseals and Tatum Ridge Elementary.

on the town Jim Shirley (Right) presenting the Cultural Champion award to Richard Storm

Michael Shelton was recognized for his and his team’s work for Embracing Our Differences. As a founding member, Michael oversees the creation and implementation of all programming and fiscal planning, which has grown to impact over 200,000 adults and 40,000 students annually. This year, the Embracing Our Differences art exhibit received 10,761 submissions representing 115 countries, 48 states and 204 schools from India, Iran, Israel, Vietnam and South Korea.

Back in 2015, Selby Gardens brought in Jennifer Rominiecki as President and CEO. She has truly given the Gardens some serious roots to grow upon. She re-positioned the institution as a “Living Museum,” producing substantial increases in visitors, new memberships and overall revenues in just a

short two years. She and her team have also introduced the community to their new five-year strategic plan and their 10-year master site plan. Let’s watch the Gardens grow under her direction as she continues to build, cultivate and bring in various science, education, arts, civic and business groups to our area through her work.

The philanthropy leader award went to Elizabeth Lindsay who, for more than 55 years, volunteered her time, gave financially and assisted many organizations in need. They include the Woman’s Exchange, the Sarasota Arts Council, Asolo

Rep, Ringling College, the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, American Symphony Orchestra League, Symphony Association, Selby Gardens, Players Theatre and Florida Studio Theatre. She served as chairman of the Florida Board of Regents, Florida House (state embassy in Washington, DC); she was founding board member of the League of Women Voters, Sarasota/Manatee; she was co-founder of the Women’s Resource Center; a co-founder of Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation; and she helped United Way, Mote Marine Laboratories, University of South Florida, Sarasota/ Manatee, and Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School.

The award-winning pianist, conductor, arranger and arts administrator, Dr. Joseph Holt, won the Artistic Achievement award. He is the current Artistic Director for the Choral Artists of Sarasota (formerly Gloria Musicae) and the Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota; he is the Director of Music at Faith Lutheran Church, and of the SILL Music Mondays program with Edward Alley.

Prior to relocating to Sarasota, he was the Associate Music Director for the Choral Arts Society of Washington and served twenty years as principal pianist with The United States Army Chorus.

The last of the awards this year went to the Cultural Champion Richard Storm, who spent 30 years in the Middle East teaching American literature, worked in public relations, produced television documentaries for CBS and NBC, and published English language magazines in Cairo and Rome. His involvement in Sarasota since

1989 includes supporting the Seaside Institute as their first Executive Director and the artist-in-residency program as co-chair. He was Director of Marketing for the Sarasota County Arts Council, a board member of La Musica de Asolo, the first Executive Director of Key Chorale, and he assisted in creating the Cirque des Voix® performance collaboration with the Circus Arts Conservatory.

Richard also served as Honorary Vice-Consul of Italy for southwestern Florida for several years, during which he worked to coordinate the Sister Cities relationship between Sarasota and Treviso, Italy. He is also the music critic for the Herald-Tribune.

Master of Ceremonies, Executive Director of the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County Jim Shirley, was eager to share the economic impact of non-profit arts and cultural organizations and its audiences in Sarasota County. The Arts & Economic Prosperity study was conducted to provide the overwhelmingly compelling economic impact the arts has on our area. In total, $295,000,000 is how much the arts organizations spend in our community per year. Those attending arts and cultural events tally 2.4 million and it is estimated that they spend $93.5 million on dining, hotels and parking. Jim told us,“This study clearly demonstrates that the arts are a large and powerful economic force in Sarasota County. They provide an unusually rich quality of life that positions our community to compete in the 21st century creative economy.”

DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

121

on the town THE EMERALD CITY The Ritz-Carlton had us green with envy as Oz took over and welcomed a record turnout crowd of over 450 guests at this year’s Oceanic Evening benefiting Mote Marine Laboratory. Congressman Vern Buchanan, Commissioner Charles Hines, board trustees, donors, volunteers, and community sponsors were greeted by the Wicked Witch of the West as she snarled in laughter, floating around on her broom. Judy Graham, event chair and Good Witch of the East, helped get everyone settled into the Land of Oz. Bob Essner, Board Chair, and Dr. Michael Crosby, CEO of Mote, addressed the crowd and shared some of the latest research and science.

The world-renowned Mote Marine Laboratory is having a great impact on conservation and sustainable use of our oceans due to the diverse backgrounds of all involved. Together, the organization’s volunteers, community partners, trustees, and dedicated and brilliant staff will continue to help propel Mote’s unique and independent institution into a new era by empowering their freedom to pursue innovative science and to enhance the ocean literacy of millions of people around the world.

Aside from the research Mote does, innovative science for coral reef, fisheries, endangered species, significant marine ecosystems and derived products from the sea help us to not only protect and sustainably utilize our ocean resources, but also improve the quality of lives in communities around the world.

They strive to translate and transfer their research through their science education and outreach programs and their community partnerships to develop a more ocean-literate public. One of their strategic priorities is to expand the connections of their science to all the diverse communities they serve in Florida and all around the world.

Mote’s 2020 vision includes an expanded and enhanced international marine science technology and innovation 1 22

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017

Sarasota Baking Book Club: Grier Ferguson, Niki Kottmann, Andrea DeCamp, Katie Johns, Alyssa Holcomb (back), Anna Brugmann (front, short hair), Cassidy Alexander (back), Elizabeth Djinis, Laura Castro and Sawyer the dog

park. This is needed to address the grand challenges that are facing our oceans on regional and international scales, the additional hiring of scientists and visiting scientists and entrepreneurs.

The evolution of Mote’s international infrastructure on City Island will require building a new informal science education center and aquarium at a new campus of Mote. Early into next year, they will announce their plans of the rebirth of Mote Aquarium on the mainland. Beyond 2020, Mote will become the catalyst for a new Silicon Valley of marine science and technology that will lead to improved conservation and sustainability of our oceans.

Florida’s blue economy will be thriving and its impact will be felt far beyond the state lines because everyone everywhere is connected to our oceans. “There really is no place like Mote,” said Dr. Crosby, as he concluded his welcome.

Seen in the sea of green were Sandy Buchanan, Mickey and Brooke Callanen, Jim Culter, Anne Essner, Erin Kabinoff, Chris McGee, Jan Miller, Lisa Morris, Gerry and Natalie Radford and Beth Waskom.

AND YOU ALWAYS END WITH DESSERT! A gal named Grier Ferguson founded the Sarasota Baking Book Club with Anna Brugman a year or so ago. This club of young, energetic, fun ladies meet either monthly or bi-monthly depending on the length of the selected novel for that particular month. Since its inception, the club has grown quickly through word of mouth and also by the taste of the delicious dessert treats concocted month after month! Most of the times, the book will inspire the tasty treat for that month. During their monthly gatherings at a member’s home, these intellectual ladies discuss literature, culture and the occasional Internet meme reference.

Their novel of choice for their fall gathering was the short story “The Telltale Heart” by Edgar Allen Poe. Grier posted a poll on the groups private Facebook group page asking everyone to suggest a short story. Alyssa Holcomb’s short story suggestion received the most votes.

Some of the members are married, some are out-of-towners, and some are locals who have returned home after college. They’ve inspired me to start a baking book club of my own, since I will now have more time on my hands due to this being my last “Real Talk” column. Keep it “all real, all the time” and thank you to Sarasota Scene for the fun opportunity and to all who helped to inspire each month!

Private dining & off premise catering available...

From its inviting old world charm and sophistication to its timeless, artistic cuisine, let the legendary Cafe L’Europe take you on an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner 431 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota | 941.388.4415 | cafeleurope.net

ESTABLISHED 1973 REBORN AUGUST 2016

CONTINENTAL CUISINE | FINE WINES | CRAFT COCKTAILS | PIANO MUSIC ALFRESCO DINING | PRIVATE DINING | ON- OR OFF-PREMISE CATERING DECEMBER 2017 | SARASOTA SCENE

123

3979 SOUTH TAMIAMI TRAIL | (941) DIAMOND | DIAMONDVAULTJEWELERS.COM GIA Cer tified Diamonds | Engagement Rings | Fine Swiss Watches | Custom Design | Private Estate Purchasing | Full-Service Repair

1 24

SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2017