December 2012

SCENE SARASOTA | MANATEE

M AGA ZI N E

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Philanthropy December 2012

Volume 55 No. 12

42 PNC WEALTH MANAGEMENT CLEAR INSIGHT

57

Sarasota’s PNC Wealth Management continues to be a market leader.

By Sue Cullen

GIVING MATTERS 46 Forces of Nature – Janelle & Carlos Beruff 48 Straight from the Heart – Graci & Dennis McGillicuddy 52 Making the World a Better Place – Rich & Clare Segall 54 For the Love of Family – Sam & Sally Shapiro

By Stephen J. Smith

57 WHEN COMPANIES GIVE BACK From donating money, to lending time and talents, local businesses are ready to help.

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

61 NONPROFIT HOLIDAY WISH LIST We’ve compiled a list of needs from area nonprofits so you’ll know how to help.

70 DOGEVITY The story of Donte’s Den - a short- and long-term home for dogs.

By Kristine Nickel

61

42

ABOUT THE COVER Scott Collins and L. Scott Merritt of PNC Wealth Management. Photo by Rob Villetto/Villetto Photography.

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Stuart J. Roth

Founder and President

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DEPARTMENTS 22

72

22 EVENTS CALENDAR

36

28 PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR SOCIALS

32 Women on the Scene Launch Party 34 Asolo Rep’s Starry Night Dinner for 1776 34 Sarasota Opera 21st Annual Curtain Raiser Dinner 38 2012 SMHF Key to the Cure 39 Pines Foundation 3rd Annual Wit & Wisdom Aging Luncheon 41 The Fund for American Studies Fundraiser 60 USF Sarasota-Manatee Brunch 68 7th Annual Callaghan Tire Charity Pro-Am Golf Tournament 81 Planned Parenthood Deadtime Stories Bash 89 Cas Antica Restaurant Grand Opening 93 MHCC Show of Shows

36 CULTURE MATTERS The Arts and Cultural Alliance shares events you won’t want to miss.

73 SCENES FROM AN INTERVIEW Sarasota Visionary Gil Waters.

80

By Gus Mollasis

77 EDUCATION MATTERS State College of Florida provides top service for veterans.

80 THE VISUAL ARTS Paper Collage Artist Bernice Ferst.

82 BEHIND THE SCENE Society Maven Debbi Benedict Give the Latest Scoop.

By Debbi Benedict

90 STORIES OF JOY A look at how local foundations are impacting the community.

By Joy Weston

95 LITERARY SCENE

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

97 SCENE LOCALLY News shaping our community.

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FROM THE EDITOR

W

hen it comes to big hearts, you’d be hard pressed to find a more generous community than ours. In this, our philanthropy issue, SCENE features several couples who have not only given their

money in support of causes, but are amazing examples of people who are truly passionate about the well-being of their fellow man. From the less fortunate, to the abused and neglected, to a better environment, these philanthropic couples have made a significant impact in the lives of others.

This community is also not without its fair share of generous companies as SCENE contributing writer Ryan Van Cleave tells us in his article, “When Companies Give Back”. We are fortunate indeed to have businesses that donate big bucks to worthy causes, encourage their employees to volunteer, or donate their time and talents to help nonprofits promote their causes.

And speaking of company giving, I am proud to say that since its inception in 1957, SCENE has donated millions of dollars in advertising space in support of local nonprofits. Since we became publishers of SCENE in 2007, my husband Ron and I decided that as the longest-running community magazine, we had an obligation to continue the tradition of our predecessors and to assist in any way

we can. I can tell you that not only have we supported nonprofits with donated promotional space in SCENE, but Ron has given his time and talents to help raise money for several nonprofits and has never been shy about raising his hand to bid for several live auctions at events.

Want to help but don’t know how? Perhaps you can’t write a check but want to make a difference. Be sure to read the holiday wish list needs of local nonprofits in this issue. From blankets and towels, to gift cards and computers, you may find your gift to help others right in your home.

So get involved and stay dedicated! Interaction and commitment breed strong communities and with these come a true sense of belonging. Without these we’ll have serious social problems. The good news is I don’t think it is in our DNA. Happy holidays!

Who’s

Behind

?

SCENE

He’s dashing, brilliant and as creative as they come. He is none other than Michael Donald Edwards, Producing

Artistic Director at Asolo Repertory Theatre. Thanks, Michael for getting behind the November issue of SCENE! For a chance to guess who’s behind this issue of SCENE, keep an eye on our Facebook page mid-month.

www.facebook.com/SarasotaScene 14

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You Deserve a Smarter, Safer Fitness Experience

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Find HealthFit’s complete schedule of FREE Solutions for Resolutions on smhfit.com and register, starting December 1, by calling (941) 917-7000!

5880 Rand Blvd., (off Clark Road) Sarasota, FL 34238

LOCALLY OWNED, OPERATED & PRINTED FOR MORE THAN 55 YEARS CEO/Publisher:

Ronald Milton

Executive Editor:

Julie A. Milton

V.P. Sales & Business Development Art Director: Editorial Assistant: Special Issue Director:

Dan Downey Michelle Cross Cheryl Galbraith Debbi Benedict

Distribution: Dick Jackson

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Contributing Writers:

Debbi Benedict Sue Cullen Gus Mollasis Steve J. Smith Ryan G. Van Cleave Joy Weston

Photographers:

Keith Millard Cliff Roles Rob Villetto

Address Phone Fax Website

7269 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34241 941-365-1119 941-954-5067 www.scenesarasota.com

SCENE Magazine publishes 12 issues a year by RJM Ventures, LLC. Address editorial, advertising and circulation correspondence to the above address. Sufficient return postage and self-addressed, stamped envelope must accompany all manuscripts, art work 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. ISSN 1535-8895.

Special Publications: Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County's Arts & Culture Guide, Doctors On The Scene, The Giving Book, Leading the Scene, Men On The Scene & Women On The Scene. scenesarasota.com

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Family

is Life.

Enjoy it to the Fullest.

Laurel Oak

T H E P R E M I E R FA M I LY C O U N T RY C LU B

Member-owned since 1999, at Laurel Oak you will find very warm, welcoming, and friendly members. With abundant natural beauty teeming with wildlife, the Club’s many amenities include 36 holes of championship golf, 12 Har Tru tennis courts, a junior Olympic-size pool and a 45,000 sq ft clubhouse.

Whether you play golf or tennis, or like to socialize, dine and party with friends in a warm and inviting environment, we have a membership plan for your lifestyle. In addition to our retired members, there are many young families at Laurel Oak, giving the Club a very energetic, highly participatory membership with many family-oriented events throughout the year.

We invite you for a Club tour anytime or take advantage of our try-us-out membership, designed to allow you to experience Laurel Oak Country Club, with virtually all the privileges of a full member, before making the commitment to full membership.

Call today for your personal tour. Enjoy family and life to the fullest at Laurel Oak.

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CALENDAR

December Calendar For a complete listing of community events please visit scenesarasota.com

Photo by Cliff Roles.

39th Annual Singing Christmas Tree Through - December 9 First Sarasota - Downtown Baptist Church. The performance features a multistory tree adorned with choir members. With various musical pieces, the tree comes to life in an awe-inspiring light show and message. Tickets: $10 | 941.365.2846 | firstsarasota.org

Holly Days and Mangrove Lights at Historic Spanish Point Through - December 31. Enjoy festive decorations, living history, performances, and colorful gardens. 941.966.5214 | historicspanishpoint.org

2012 Bradenton Blues Festival December 1 Riverwalk overlooking the Manatee River 11:00 am. Featuring a team of top blues artists. Enjoy food, drinks, art, vendors, and live music. Tickets: $25 adult $10 child BradentonBluesFestival.org

20th Annual Hot Dogs & Cool Cats “Laugh Your Paws Off Gala” December 1 Sarasota Yacht Club 5:30 pm. Benefits HSSC. Featuring Elayne Boosler headlining an evening of hilarity with Les McCurdy and Ken Sons serving as the hosts and emcees. Tickets: $175 | 941.955.4131 x121 | ccleary@hssc.org

Fine Arts Society’s “Celebrate the Artist in Black and White” December 3 Hyatt Regency 10:00 am. Luncheon, Artisan Boutique, gala fashion show, Silent Auction, and a surprise performance celebrating the Arts in Sarasota. 941.330.0680 | fineartssarasota.com

La Musica’s Sonata a Due December 3 New College’s Charles Ringling House 6:00 pm. Violist Federico Agostini and pianist Derek Han recital. Tickets: $150-$250 | 941.371.6798 | lamusicafestival.org

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THE PERFECT BAL ANCE OF TR ADITION & INNOVATION

Relax and Mingle at the Bar Experience Elegant Dining Inside or Alfresco Private Dining & Off Premise Catering Available

Dinner for Two Special Menu Featuring Prime Rib $69.95 Per Couple. Including a choice of starter, entrĂŠe and a select bottle of wine per couple Available nightly starting at 5:00 Join us between 5:00-6:00 and receive a complimentary dessert to share Visit our menu online at cafeleurope.net Complimentary Valet Parking All Day Long

941.388.4415 | 431 St. Armands Circle | cafeleurope.net

28th Annual Sarasota Opera Poinsettia Luncheon December 4 Michael’s on East 11:00 am. Carolina Castells and Tonia Maria Rodriguez, accompanied by maestro Jesse Martins, will perform during the luncheon benefiting the Sarasota Opera Guild. Tickets: $65 | 941.346.8057 | sarasotaopera.org

All the World’s a Stage: Celebrate the Venice Theatre December 5 Plantation Golf and Country Club 11:00 am. Seventh annual style show to benefit the Venice Area Historical Society.

Tickets: $35 | 941.408.1729 | venicehistory.org

Mental Health Community Center’s High Hopes Breakfast December 6 Michael’s on East 8:30 am. Breakfast to benefit the programs of all four of MHCCI’s centers. Free of charge.

941.953.3477 | mhcci.com

Manasota Asalh’s 15th Annual “Thank You” Holiday Breakfast December 6 Fete Ballroom Lakewood Ranch 10:00 am. Annual Breakfast giving thanks to its members and friends for all their support in the past year. Tickets: $35 | 941.388.8240

34th Annual St. Armands Holiday Night of Lights December 7 St. Armands Circle 6:00 pm. Watch “The Circle” light up with thousands of white lights, decorations and a four story Christmas tree. Featuring the arrival of Santa Claus! Open to public | starmandscircleassoc.com

Florida Center’s 25th Annual Festival of Trees, Lights, & Holiday Gifts December 7 Michael’s On East 6:30 pm. Featuring cocktails, live music, dancing, auctions and dinner. Black-tie optional. Tickets: $175 | 941.371.8820 x1165 | linda.greaves@thefloridacenter.org

Arthritis Foundation’s Southwest Region 16th Annual Jingle Bell Run December 7 Bradenton 12th St. West 7:00 pm. Fun run & walk and optional holiday themed costumes. Food, drinks and live band.

Tickets: $10 - $40 until Dec. 4 | 941.708.3901 | arthritis.org

13th Annual Christmas Show – A Christmas Tradition with the Ditchfield Family Singers December 8 Sarasota Opera House 2:00 pm & 7:00 pm. A favorite Christmas tradition for thousands over the years. 941.923.2013 | ditchfieldfamilysingers.com

Annual Winter Wonderland in Downtown Bradenton December 8 Old Main Street 5:00 p.m. Enjoy the street party featuring snow mountains, Santa Claus, food, arts and crafts, hay rides, games and more.

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NATURAL BEAUTY

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Christmas Boat Parade of Lights on Sarasota Bay December 8 Sarasota Bayfront 6:00 pm. Boaters string lights and

Sarasota Concert Association Munchtime Musicales

decorate their power and sailboats with holiday themes that amaze

December 14 Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center 12:00 pm.

spectators young and old. sarasotachristmasboatparade.com

Featuring pianist Sylvia Reynolds Eckes. FREE | 941.955.0040 | sarasotaconcertassociation.org

Make A-Wish Foundation’s Christmas in Candy Land

Venice Symphony Holiday Concert

December 9 Michael’s On East Ballroom 12:00pm. Meet Santa

December 14 8:00 pm & December 15 4:00 pm & 8:00 pm Church

while enjoying interactive edibles, face painting, and mountains of

of the Nazarene. Kenneth Bowermeister opens his fourth season as

amazing sweets. Tickets: $35 adults, $10 per child | 941.952.9474

conductor of the Venice Symphony with a festive Holiday Concert.

christmasincandyland.kintera.org

Tickets: $20 -$28 | 941.412.4725 | thevenicesymphony.org

Sarasota Orchestra’s Holiday Luncheon

Holidays Around the Ranch

December 10 Michael’s On East 11:00 am. Sarasota Orches-

December 14 Main Street at Lakewood Ranch 6:00. Watch the

tra Association’s Holiday Luncheon focusing on youth. Holiday

lighting of the tree over the fountain, work on crafts in Santa’s

boutique, and a raffle of decorated tabletop trees. Tickets: $55 |

workshop, ice skate on an acrylic ice rink with skates provided,

941.685.0425 | soassociation.org

and welcome Santa’s arrival. FREE | lakewoodranch.com

Community Youth Development’s 4th Annual Gingerbread Festival

Snow Fest Sarasota

December 13 - 16 Potter Building Sarasota Fair Grounds. More than

giant snow slides, bounce houses, caroling, ice skating, Christmas

150 gingerbread houses by youth groups and local organizations will

trees and Christmas shows with “Santa’s Extravaganza”. Sponsored

be on display. Features this year include Iron Chef contest and Gin-

by Spotlight Events. FREE | snowfestsarasota.com

December 14 -23 Sarasota County Fairgrounds. Experience tubing,

gerbread House contest. Tickets: $1 | 941.922.5126 | cydonline.org

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Selby Lights in Bloom December 15-23, 26 & 27 Selby Gardens 6:00 pm. Stroll through

First Church Singers perform with members of the Sarasota

magical gardens decked with brilliant light displays, including a

Orchestra along with dancers from the Sarasota Ballet. (Parking

twenty foot bromeliad tree with over 450 live bromeliads. Live

available in Zenith garage). Free will offering.

holiday music and a visit from Santa as well as children’s activities and games for the entire family. Tickets: $12 | 941.366.5731

Gloria Musicae’s Celebrating the Season

selby.org

December 18 First United Methodist Church 7:30 pm. Celebrating Christmas in collaboration with the Sarasota Orchestra Brass

Humane Society of Sarasota County “Deck the Paws”

Quintet and the Sarasota premiere of Gwyneth Walker’s Alpha

December 17 - 11 am. Christmas Open House. Dress your dogs

gloriamusicae.org

and Omega. Tickets: $35 (adult) $15 (student) | 941.360.7399

in their holiday best for this festive family event for animal lovdog obedience demonstrations. All proceeds benefit HSSC.

Perlman Music Program’s 9th Annual Winter Residency

hssc.org

December 23 - January 5 USF Sarasota-Manatee Campus. Free

ers. Features pet portraits with Santa Paws, canine massages,

musical events, including recitals, master classes and rehearsals

JCFS Magical Moments Gala

with Toby and Itzhak Perlman, faculty and students. Celebration

December 16 Ritz-Carlton Sarasota 5:00 pm. Dinner, drinks, and

Concert is January 5 at Sarasota Opera House 5:00 pm. Tickets:

a live performance by the Sarasota Orchestra to benefit Jewish

$40 - $80 | 941.366.8450 x1

Family and Children’s Service. Tickets: $500 | 941.366.2224

PerlmanMusicProgramSuncoast.org

jfcs-cares.org

Sailor Circus’s Holiday Spectacular 21st Annual Christmas Concert

December 27 - 30 Sailor Circus. A Sarasota favorite and spec-

December 16 First United Methodist Church 7:00 pm. Fea-

tacular show for the holidays. Tickets: $10-$16 | 941.361.6350

turing Christmas Memories and a community Carol sing. The

sailorcircus.org

A Smarter Path to a Healthier Life.

Nothing is more important than your health and well-being.

At LernerCohen Healthcare, we believe the best path to good health starts with a personal approach to patient care. We limit the number of patients in our practice, spend as much time as necessary for each appointment and recommend lifestyle changes that can improve your quality of life. Our unique personal care focuses on what’s ailing you today, and on optimizing your wellness for the future. ~ Board Certified in Internal Medicine ~ Exceptional, Experienced Primary Care Physicians

~ Personal Attention ~ Unlimited Visits ~ House Calls ~ 24/7 Access with No Waiting

941.953.9080 The Doctor Is In. Always. scenesarasota.com

Brad S. Lerner, MD ~ Louis M. Cohen, MD 1921 Waldemere Street, Suite 814 ~ Sarasota, FL 34239 ~ LernerCohen.com December 2012

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PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE 941.351.8000 / asolorep.org 1776 The Musical Through – December 22 A visionary musical that movingly – and often hilariously – captures the great galvanizing moment in the American Story: the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE 941.366.9000 / floridastudiotheatre.org The Best of Enemies December 5 - January 27 In 1971, a high-ranking member of the Ku Klux Klan is pitted against an AfricanAmerican Civil Rights activist over the desegregation of schools. Inspired by a true story.

The Wanderers... Let’s Twist Again Through – January 6 The 1950s: bobby socks, hula hoops and street corner quartets.

Smokey Joe’s Café Through – January 6 A celebration of the music of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller.

MANATEE PLAYERS 941.748.5875 / manateeplayers.com Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings Through – December 23 A brand-new show that offers the best of FOREVER PLAID. Filled with Christmas standards, like “Mr. Santa,” “Let It Snow” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” that have all been “Plaid-erized.”

THE PLAYERS THEATRE 941.365.2494 / theplayers.org Annie December 6 -16 11-year-old Annie and her dog Sandy are off on an adventure to find her parents.

SARASOTA BALLET 941.359.0099 / sarasotaballet.org The Nutcracker (Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall) December 14-15

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Follow Clara’s dream as she runs away with the circus in this world premier.

SARASOTA OPERA 941.366.8450 / sarasotaopera.org Turandot February 9 – 23 Brave men travel from all over the world to attempt to melt the heart of the beautiful ice princess, Turandot, by solving three riddles. Answer correctly and win her eternal love; answer incorrectly and lose your head.

SARASOTA ORCHESTRA 941.953.3434 / sarasotaorchestra.org Masterworks - The Planets Through – December 2 An “out-of-this-world” musical odyssey begins with Mozart’s 41st and final symphony, then a journey through the solar system with Holst’s massive tone poem, The Planets.

Winter Wonderland December 5 – 8 Celebrate the holiday season with a delightful concert of Christmas and Hanukkah music.

VAN WEZEL PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 941.953.3368 / vanwezel.org For a complete listing of performances, visit vanwezel.org The Oak Ridge Boys’ Christmas Times a Comin’ December 4 The Kings of Swing December 5 Catch Me If You Can December 6 – 7 West Side Story December 10 – 11 Wynonna’s Rockin’ Christmas December 22 A Christmas Carol December 23

Midtown Men December 28 Jungle Jack Hanna December 29 Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker December 30

VENICE THEATRE 941.488.1115 / venicestage.com MIDLIFE! The Crisis Musical Through December 16 From reading glasses and mammograms to weekend warriors and proctology exams - all are lampooned with a Saturday Night Live non-sensibility.

The SantaLand Diaries Through – December 16 Based on Sedaris’ true-life experience working as “Crumpet the Elf” at Macy’s Santa Land display, this outrageous, sardonic tales of holiday frenzy will have you in stitches.

WEST COAST BLACK THEATRE TROUPE (WBTT) 941.366.1505 / wbttroupe.org Nate Jacobs’ 50s Jukebox Revue Through – December 16 Relive the most exciting musical era of our time with upbeat, energetic music from Fats Domino, Little Richard, and Muddy Waters. scenesarasota.com

“PIECEFUL”

FEELINGS

Blending traditional techniques and craftsmanship with a modern viewpoint, designer Ray Harris creates gowns for grand occasions as well as lots of quiet, easy pieces.

Available at Dream Weaver, 364 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota.

941.388.1974.

SOCIAL

Women on the Scene Launch Party Julie & Ron Milton, publishers of SCENE Magazine, recently held a launch party for Women on the SCENE 2012, a special issue proďŹ ling the achievements and expertise of local professionals, entrepreneurs and community leaders making a difference on our community. The event was held at the beautiful Laurel Oak Country Club, which served as a perfect setting for the event. For more information on this special issue, please call 941.365.1119, ext. 310 or Photos by Keith A. email editor@scenesarasota.com.

Millard Photography

Ric Del Vizo & Brandy Coffey

Suzanne Crandall & Laura Lemming

Marsha Panuce & Vivian Kouvant

Marilyn Schroeter & Gila Goldner Meriwether

Estelle Crawford & Susan Brennan

Barbara Collins, Peggy Wilhelm, Stephanie Grosskreutz & Merry Williams

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Susan Samson, Linda Ware & Darcie Duncan

Jane Summerville Kiebitz & Cindy Hill

Salena Wilhoit & Ashley Dooley

Shawn Cate, Michelle Campbell, Valerie McChesney & Cammie Longenecker scenesarasota.com

John Fain, Souad Dreyfus, Angela Massaro-Fain & Kelly Keller

Dr. Christine CaufďŹ eld & Sherry Edwards

Marge Maisto & Varinia Van Ness

Kailash Jain, Mona Jain & Dennis Stover scenesarasota.com

Rob Villetto & Stephanie Hefner

Florence Conlan & Suzanne Crandall

Donna-Lee Roden & Kathy Francoletti

Dr. Heidi K. Anderson & Christine Bolton

Dr. Holly Barbour & Debbi Benedict

Suzy Circle, Amy Clore & Wanda Martinetto

Veronica Brandon Miller & Samantha Lutey

Marty Katz, Clint Monts DeOca & Renee Hamad December 2012

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SOCIAL

Asolo Rep’s Starry Night Dinner for 1776 With lights twinkling across the moonlit Sarasota Bay, the revolutionary forces of Asolo Repertory Theatre gathered at the home of Stanley Kane for the first of this season’s four Starry Night Dinners.

Guests were welcomed by Bradley Goddard, Vice President and Senior Relationship Manager for PNC Wealth Management, and Julie Milton, SCENE’s Executive Editor, sponsors of the Starry Night Dinner Series. Entertaining the troops poolside were the stars of 1776 – Bernie Yvon, Andrew Boyer, and Sarasota’s own Jay Lusteck (John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Richard Henry Lee), who performed a scene from the show including the song, “The Lees of Old Virginia.” The special guest of honor was Linda DiGabriele, Managing Director of Asolo Rep, who was recognized for her 39 years of leadership and service. Guests regaled in patriotic red, white, and blue attire included Event Chair Margaret Wise, Bob Bartner, Asolo Rep Board of Directors President and his wife, Beverly; Michael Donald Edwards, Producing Artistic Director for Asolo Rep; and 1776 director Frank Galati and his partner, Peter Amster, 1776 choreographer. Photos by Cliff Roles

Jennifer Rust & Anne Garlington

Carol Phillips & Rita Greenbaum

Chloe & Gary Sweetman & Linda Di Gabriele

Katherine & Stanley Kane with Margaret Wise

Chris & Aimee Cogan with Michael Donald Edwards

Sarasota Opera 21st Annual Curtain Raiser Dinner The Curtain Raiser celebrated the start of the opera’s social season as well as the opening of Rigoletto. The evening featured a cocktail reception, three-course gourmet dinner and silent auction. Guests were entertained by a selection of arias and duets performed by Sarasota Opera’s Studio Artists. Artistic Director Victor DeRenzi and newly appointed Executive Director Richard Russell welcomed the group and discussed the artistic program. Event Sponsors included: Photos by Cliff Roles SunTrust, Michael’s on East and Scene Magazine.

David Morton, Victor de Renzi, Jacqueline Morton & Richard Russell

Bud Borax, Elissa Soyka, Sandra & Erik Lindqvist & Carol English

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Bill Tompkins, Jenny Ferlicchi, Fred Murrell & Rebecca Tompkins

Chris McGee & Lisa Adams scenesarasota.com

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ARTS & CULTURE PRESENTED BY:

1) 1776

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November 16 – December 22 1776 is a multiple Tony winner (including the award for Best Musical) with music and lyrics by Sherman Edwards and book by Peter Stone. The story is inspired by the events surrounding the signing of the Declaration of Independence and focuses on John Adams efforts to persuade his fellow delegates to vote for American independence. While familiar, the play spins its narrative in a humorous and yet poignant way, and employs rousing musical numbers to underscore historical drama.

Why It Matters: This witty, patriotic comedy launches Asolo Repertory Theatre’s 2012-2013 Season and The American Character Project, a 5-year initiative that poses a series of thoughtprovoking questions about the evolution and continuing development of the American Character. Throughout the five years the project will examine and celebrate the extraordinary people, culture, and experiences that make America unique.

2) National League of American Pen Women Annual Exhibition

2

December 14 – January 11

Thirty members will display their paintings, photography, engravings and sculptures at the Venice Art Center. This event is NLAPW’s means of encouraging, recognizing and promoting the production of creative work in art, letters and music.

Why It Matters: The National League of American Pen Women (NLAPW) is the oldest multidiscipline arts organization for women in the United States. Founded in 1897, they are a community of professional artists, writers, poets, composers, choreographers and arrangers who believe in the power of words, art and music to fire the imagination and nurture the soul.

3) Lights in Bloom December 15 – 23

For eleven sparkling evenings, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens will transform its bayfront acreage into a fantasyland of themed light displays and holiday enchantment. Visitors to Lights in Bloom will be welcomed by Tree Man, the event’s kindly but imposing greeter, and traverse a landscape filled with larger than life, rainforest-themed light displays, dancing fairies, a colorful Wishing Tree, a Toyland featuring oversized games, and a brand new snowflake forest. Along the way, guests will enjoy live entertainment, and vendors will offer holiday fare including Merry Meals for kids, sweet treats, and festive drinks. Santa and his elves will make an appearance every night prior to Christmas.

Why It Matters: Lights in Bloom designer Bob McComb is pulling together an unforgettable evening filled with brilliant lights and family-themed fun. Most of the decorations for Lights in Bloom are custom-designed and handcrafted on site. Children of all ages will enjoy garden-themed crafts in Kids Corner and the popular holiday train village. Near the Payne Mansion, guests will take in Selby Gardens’ signature Bromeliad Tree, take part in a nightly menorah lighting, and explore a glittering Holiday Splendor at Payne Mansion Showhouse, presented by the Florida West Coast Chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers. This year’s showhouse, which uses bromeliads as its unifying theme, highlights the talents of more than a dozen local decorators.

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Visit SarasotaArts.org for additional events, artist profiles and information about Sarasota’s exciting season of arts and culture.

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Dinner and Brief Live Auction

Amazing Entertainment

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SOCIAL

2012 Key To The Cure On October 18, nearly 700 guests attended the kickoff party for the annual Key to the Cure four-day shopping event, sponsored by Saks Fifth Avenue and Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, Inc. Chaired by Allison Silver Schwartz, M.D., and Sally Schule, the “Key” event benefited women’s cancer programs at Sarasota Memorial Health Care System and netted approximately $70,000. Four hundred keys were sold for chances to win more than 300 prizes, including five grand prizes. Photos by Cliff Roles Stacie Briggs, JoAnne Ronzani & Cheyenne Tidwell

Gabrielle Slater & Monica Slater van Buskirk

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Dr. Alissa & Charlene Shulman

Gwen MacKenzie & Alex Quarles

Ali & Brian Weiner, with Christine D’Annunzio

Allison Schwartz, Susan Jones & Sally Schule

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SOCIAL

Pines Foundation 3rd Annual Wit & Wisdom of Aging Luncheon Pines of Sarasota Foundations’s recent Wit & Wisdom of Aging Luncheon drew over 350 guests and sponsors and showcased celebrity panelists Tony Jacklin, US Open and British Open champion and Ryder Cup captain; Jack Perkins, award winning journalist, correspondent and commentator; and Sandra Washington, TV host and former manager of Keep Sarasota Beautiful. The moderator was Teri Hansen, CEO of Gulf Coast Community Foundation. At the event, Pines raised over sixty thousand dollars passing over $160K in total – greater than last year’s achievement. Pines of Sarasota is a skilled nursing facility providing assisted living and Alzheimer’s and rehabilitation care.

Photos by Cliff Roles Dave Shaver, Phil Delaney, Marie & Mike Pender

Jewel & Mike Ash

Daniele Gladding, Richard Davidson & Craig Hollingsworth

Estelle Crawford, Melissa Lerner, Sandra Washington, John Overton, Tony Jacklin, Scott Anderson, Teri Hansen, Kim Bald & Jack Perkins

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SOCIAL

The Fund for American Studies Fundraiser

Friends and donors of “The Fund for American Studies” gathered at the home of Dr. Joseph and Elena Balzano to raise awareness about The Fund and the opportunities it offers young college and graduate level students. The Fund was founded in 1967 by Governor Charles Edison of N.J. and focuses on preparing young people to be leaders, teaching the principles of freedom and a free market economy.

The Fund for American Studies is based in Washington DC and is affiliated with several prestigious universities including Georgetown and George Mason University. Students interested in government, public policy, law, economics, and journalism have the opportunity to participate in internships, summer programs and full semesters at home and abroad including Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. They will be attending lectures with people that are prominent in their fields as well as small intimate meetings with high level officials from various government agencies and the private sector. As many alumni will confirm, it can truly be a life changing experience. Present at the event were Randy Teague, Chairman of The Fund, Roger Ream, President, Ed Turner, Vice President and Robert Meissner, Commander (Ret.) U.S Navy chairman of the Board of Regents. Details about The Fund are available online at TFAS.org.

Photos by Keith A. Millard Photography

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PNC WEALTH MANAGEMENT

CLEAR INSIGHT

By Sue Cullen. Photo of Scott Collins, Senior Vice President and Market Executive by Rob Villetto/Villetto Photography.

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A move into new offices this month underscores the phe-

lier this year, it purchased the 424 retail branches of Royal

nomenal success story Sarasota’s PNC Wealth Manage-

Bank of Canada. Amongst these branches are eight branches

ment® has created with an unwavering focus on service

in Sarasota and Venice, including a prime downtown Sara-

and satisfaction delivered consistently one client at a time.

sota location at Ringling Boulevard and Orange Avenue. This

That success has been crafted through a steadfast belief in

location is where PNC Wealth Management will occupy the

maintaining a team-based approach with the experience

third floor after this month’s move into their new quarters.

to address clients’ entire financial picture locally while backed by the expansive resources and security of one of the nation’s largest banks and wealth managers.

“Although PNC today is a major banking institution, its employees still value strong relationships with customers reflecting PNC’s roots in small town banking. What sets

Witnessing the success of PNC Wealth Management’s phi-

PNC apart is a culture based on treating the customer right

losophy of service is its exponential growth in just five years

that has proven successful for more than 100 years,” Collins

from two to twenty-one professionals and staff, five of whom

said. “PNC stays focused on doing the right thing because

have been hired this year to accommodate continued growth

we understand that our relationship with people is a rela-

of high net worth clients. That growth is even more impres-

tionship of trust.” One example of that is when competitors

sive in light of the retrenching that largely continues through-

began charging swipe fees for debit cards, PNC Bank did

out the financial industry, and as the country nears the so-

not, and the others had to back down after the backlash

called “fiscal cliff” in 2013, the merits of a comprehensive

they received from their customers.

team approach have become even more appealing.

“With all that has happened in the financial markets,

“Sometimes people are surprised to find that we wrap a

people are anxious,” said L. Scott Merritt, PNC Wealth

team of five experienced professionals around each client,”

Management’s Chief Investment Officer for Florida and the

said Scott Collins, Senior Vice President and Market Exec-

Southeast, who was one of the office’s two founding mem-

utive. “Wealth Management is not simply about keeping

bers. “We are in a time of complexity with national and

pace with or exceeding the S&P, and there’s an important

international cross currents, and families should not have

reason for that. Investment performance is very important,

to stand alone. Many institutions will tell you what to do,

but without coordinated estate, financial and income tax

and a lot tell how they will do it, but we tell them why. We

planning, investment gains can be eaten away by improper

sit with our clients, look at the situation and then take steps

tax management and ineffective wealth transfer strategies.

to solve the issues at hand. Our clients need someone who

What we offer is the opportunity for strong investment

can provide direction through the complexity in a trustwor-

performance under a complete wealth planning umbrella,

thy way that gives them a legitimate reason to be optimistic

which takes into account tax implications and many other

for themselves and their families. There are so many inter-

variables to ensure we maximize results for our client.”

esting things going on in the world, and we talk with clients

Each client’s team includes a Relationship Manger, who is

about them; the sky is not falling.”

the go-to point of contact. In addition, a Private Banking Ad-

PNC Wealth Management team members meet with cli-

visor delivers concierge-level banking services including the

ents at least quarterly to discuss progress and discern any

ability to handle loans and mortgages from the simplest to

changing circumstances that need to be addressed. PNC

the most complex. An Investment Advisor creates a custom

also initiates a yearly meeting with a client’s attorneys

portfolio of stocks, bonds and alternative investments based

and CPA to ensure the family’s entire financial team un-

on the client’s unique circumstances. The Wealth Planner

derstands and is accountable for achieving goals. “This

provides expertise in income tax, estate, financial and phil-

year, we believe the need for that coordinated expertise

anthropic planning. A Trust Advisor is responsible for day-

has become even more critical with the uncertainties of

to-day account management and ensures that PNC Wealth

a Presidential election, the scheduled expiration of in-

Management is fulfilling its fiduciary duty to its clients.

come tax relief measures, and scheduled increases in the

“PNC brings considerable resources for clients as one of the largest banks in the United States,” Collins said. Barron’s lists PNC Wealth Management among the top wealth man-

capital gains and estate taxes. High net worth individuals in particular should ensure the correct strategies and a longer-term plan are in place,” Collins said.

agement firms in the country*. Although it has about 2,900

Significant changes are indeed afoot. The lifetime estate and

branches in 19 states and the District of Columbia, PNC Bank

gift tax exclusion for example, is scheduled to decrease from

has expanded its footprint in Florida relatively recently. Ear-

more than $5 million to $1 million while maximum tax rates

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Photo of Scott Collins, Joe Meterchick and L. Scott Merritt by Barbara Banks.

on amounts above that ceiling are scheduled to increase to 55 percent from 35 percent. “With such a complex and changing world, it is beneficial to have the resources PNC brings to us with professionals who study the changes and see where the opportunities lie,” he said. “Our team brings that analysis to bear locally in order to help our clients. Realistically, people need someone to look at their entire picture or there is no way to get ahead of these changes. This is one of those times when it is so easy for us to prove our value proposition.”

Although performance and service standards are high across the board at PNC, the Wealth Management Sarasota office has gained recognition for its particular degree of expertise and has trained others in the company. “The great thing is that we are able to present this expertise to our clients locally. It’s not a matter of a conference call or flying someone in,” Merritt said. “PNC has shown by its actions that it is committed to attracting talented, experienced professionals not just here, but in its offices everywhere.” Merritt’s own investment expertise has been tapped with broader responsibilities for offices throughout Florida and the Southeast. He also was named to a nine-person corporate committee tasked with monitoring markets and recommending tactical changes to asset allocation. “PNC does not appoint someone to this committee lightly. It means we believe that person is at the top of their field,” Collins said. “Scott manages client money as well, and having someone of his caliber managing money right here in Sarasota, along with Chris McGee and Jennifer Steube, helps me sleep well at night.”

While client relationships are paramount, PNC is not neglecting high tech while focusing on high touch. It has developed a number of tools for those who like having their finances readily available. PNC Wealth Insight ® provides clients with a virtual dashboard for their home computers that allows them to review their entire portfolio quickly. Clients can also view the detail their advisors see about their accounts. Clients can customize the content and features to their preferences with easy access to net worth, account groupings, income and performance.

Collins says PNC Wealth Management also likes to show its client appreciation in ways that are more social. Through its Pathfinder series, the office

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brings speakers and performers to Sarasota several times a year. Recently, Tom Sherak, President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, spoke to local clients who received a fun souvenir—their photo taken with an ac-

Vision & Values

tual Oscar Award statue. Clients also enjoyed a private performance by John

Performance

Lloyd Young, known for his Tony Award-winning portrayal of Frankie Valli in

We are hard-working, highenergy, innovated and committed to operating at the highest levels of service and profitability so that we are successful in our highly competitive industry and marketplace.

Broadway’s “Jersey Boys.”

From the Sarasota office’s inception, it has been recognized for its generous support of many of the area’s artistic, educational and humanitarian organizations. The management team knows that local philanthropy is important to their clients who understand that the contributions of these organizations help create the fabric of Sarasota’s wonderful lifestyle. As an outgrowth of the office’s success, PNC Wealth Management has been able to increase its already substantial philanthropic giving next year, Collins said. This is entirely in keeping with PNC’s philosophy of community support with its charitable giving nationally topping $68.9 million in 2011.

Locally, the PNC Wealth Management team gives generously of their time, serving on boards and supporting fundraisers. That willingness to help others also is demonstrated by a caring attitude toward the needs of clients’ families.

“All of us have picked up the phone to call clients on the weekend. It might be because we knew they were looking for a new house or car, and we saw something we thought they might like,” Collins said. “It’s not always about managing their money. We’re going to reach out on our days off because we are thinking about them.”

It is this personal approach in combination with the local office’s depth of knowledge and PNC’s broad resources that has built PNC Wealth Management’s reputation as a leading team of financial professionals at this time. In a town that has some very fine professionals, that is saying something.

Customer Focus We understand the needs, values and aspirations of our customers; create quality products to address those needs; provide professional, consistent and prompt service.

Respect We trust the capabilities, character, and judgement of our colleagues and empower them to make decisions.

Integrity We are honest and conduct business with the highest ethical standards.

*Source: Barron’s, September 17, 2012, based on AUM as of June 30, 2012.

The following disclosure is made in accordance with the rules of Treasury Department Circular 230 governing standards of practice before the Internal Revenue Service: Any description pertaining to federal taxation contained herein is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used by you or any other person, for the purpose of (i) avoiding any penalties that may be imposed by the Internal Revenue Code, and (ii) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein.

The material presented in this article is of a general nature and does not constitute the provision by PNC of investment, legal, tax or accounting advice to any person, or a recommendation to buy or sell any security or adopt any investment strategy. Opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice. The information was obtained from sources deemed reliable. Such information is not guaranteed as to its accuracy. You should seek the advice of an investment professional to tailor a financial plan to your particular needs. For more information, please contact PNC at 1-888-762-6226.

The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (“PNC”) uses the names PNC Wealth Management®, PNC Institutional Investments® and Hawthorn PNC Family WealthSM to provide investment and wealth management, fiduciary services, FDIC-insured banking products and services and lending of funds through its subsidiary, PNC Bank, National Association, which is a Member FDIC, and uses the names PNC Wealth Management® and Hawthorn PNC Family WealthSM to provide certain fiduciary and agency services through its subsidiary, PNC Delaware Trust Company. Brokerage and advisory products and services are offered through PNC Investments LLC, a registered broker-dealer and investment adviser and member of FINRA and SIPC. Insurance products and advice may be provided by PNC Insurance Services, LLC, a licensed insurance agency affiliate of PNC, or by licensed insurance agencies that are not affiliated with PNC; in either case a licensed insurance affiliate will receive compensation if you choose to purchase insurance through these programs. A decision to purchase insurance will not affect the cost or availability of other products or services from PNC or its affiliates. PNC does not provide legal, tax or accounting advice.

“PNC Wealth Management” and “PNC Institutional Investments” are registered trademarks and “Hawthorn PNC Family Wealth” is a service mark of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. Investments: Not FDIC Insured. No Bank Guarantee. May Lose Value.

Insurance: Not FDIC Insured. No Bank or Federal Government Guarantee. May Lose Value.

Diversity We recognize the critical value of our differences and our individual and collective strengths and skills.

Teamwork We work together to achieve our vision and we celebrate the successes of our co-workers.

Quality of Life We are sensitive to the need to balance business and personal life.

1549 Ringling Blvd, Third Floor Sarasota, FL 36236 | 941.363.5060 PNC.com/WealthManagement scenesarasota.com

December 2012

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GIVING

Forces of Nature Janelle & Carlos Beruff

By Steven J. Smith | Photo by Cliff Roles Carlos and Janelle Beruff joined forces with the Conservation

chairman of the State College of Florida’s board of trustees.

Foundation of the Gulf Coast as a result of a chance meeting Carlos had several years back with founding members Albert

“Our function is pretty simple,” Carlos said. “Janelle is a co-chair

and Pauline Joerger.

for the Palm Ball, the Foundation’s annual fundraising event. My function is about getting others to help fund the event so that it

“We got into a philosophical discussion of private sector funding

is successful, and raise the funds necessary to continue operating

of conservation as opposed to public sector funding of conserva-

the Conservation Foundation, which comes to around $230,000-

tion,” Carlos said. “And I’m a proponent of the private sector for

300,000 a year. That money includes staffing the organization and

that, because I think it’s more of a philanthropic duty as opposed

directing funds into a self-sustaining endowment, which will take

to taking money from taxpayers to buy lands for conservation.”

years. I haven’t had much involvement in land use acquisitions, but I’m happy to help them if they should need my expertise.”

The couple decided to take an active role with the foundation, because they wanted the money they invested to be utilized as

The Palm Ball is one of Sarasota’s premiere social events, consist-

judiciously as possible.

ing of a cocktail hour, dinner, entertainment, and an auction that features such environmentally friendly activities as guided kaya-

“Administrative overhead is a primary concern of mine,” Carlos

king and hiking excursions through areas of pristine wildlife.

said. “And the foundation has a very low overhead. Most of the money it garners goes directly to the purpose of the foundation.”

“In the past we’ve raised as much as $300,000,” Janelle said.

We have a band and dancing. It’s a wonderful time for every-

That purpose, according to the foundation’s website, is to work

one.” Janelle is expecting the couple’s first child in April 2013.

with landowners and regional government to protect and preserve the bays, beaches and barrier islands that define the char-

Carlos’ expertise as a contractor recently came into play as well

acter and ecology of our region. It does that by:

when he learned a bid for constructing the restrooms at Bay Preserve — the Osprey Point structure where the Conservation

• Holding conservation easements and owning nature preserves

Foundation is located — came in too high.

• Educating for responsible land stewardship • Collaborating with individuals, organizations and communities

“I said, ‘That’s crazy. It’s a bathroom,’” he said. “So I got their blessing for some cost savings to it. We wound up saving them

Carlos’ background uniquely qualifies him as a participant in

between $50,000 and $80,000. I get very mad when people

the Conservation Foundation’s goals. Owner and president of

take advantage of not-for-profit organizations.”

Medallion Homes Gulf Coast Inc., he is a certified building contractor and serves as a member of the governing board of the

For more information on the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf

Southwest Florida Water Management District. In addition, he is

Coast and its goals, visit www.conservationfoundation.com.

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GIVING

Straight from the Heart Graci & Dennis McGillicuddy

By Steven J. Smith | Photo by Keith A Millard Mention the name “McGillicuddy” in Sarasota and everyone instantly knows whom you’re talking about: two exceptional philanthropists who have dedicated their lives — and a good part of their fortune — to abused children, tolerance, and culture in our community.

Graci and Dennis McGillicuddy met at the beginning of their junior year at the University of Florida some 50 years ago, and were married by the end of the school year.

“I chased him until he caught me,” Graci laughed.

After graduation, Dennis started up a fledgling cable business, Coaxial Communications, and moved it to Sarasota in December of 1970. He sold the highly successful business in 1990, and upon retirement was able to join with Graci in focusing on giving back to the Sarasota community they love.

One of the McGillicuddys’ first philanthropic acts came as a result of a local child abuse case that grabbed Graci’s attention.

“In 1986 I read in the papers about a little baby called Shannon Nicole Cook,” Graci said. “She was brutally abused by her mother and step-father. She was hogtied and pummeled, and she had burns all over her body. Just about every bone in her body was broken, and she died from her injuries.”

Graci wanted to do something to stop the cycle of child abuse and learned about Dr. Kay Glasser, who was building the Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center in Sarasota. Glasser connected Graci to the Child Protection Center, which was established in 1980 and works with the Department of Children and Families and law enforcement in the investigation of child abuse cases while coordinating community-wide services for affected children.

“They do prevention, intervention, and treatment of child abuse,” Graci said. “I was asked to be on their board in 1986 and I’ve been on the board ever since. I now chair that board.” scenesarasota.com

Graci added the CPC saw only about four cases a week back in the late ‘80s. Today, they deal with many times that amount.

“Nobody wants to talk about child abuse,” Graci said. “It’s a big secret and nobody wants to know about it, but the need for the CPC is so great. I’ve dedicated my life to it.”

That dedication led to a $1 million donation from Graci to the CPC. She was instrumental in raising $6 million toward the creation of the Child Advocacy Center, which opened at 720 S. Orange Ave. in Sarasota on April 22, 2010.

“What’s done in that building are three basic parts of the child protection mission — intervention, medical examinations, and forensic interviews,” Dennis said. “And the CPC plays a significant role in the prosecution of child abuse.”

According to Dennis, the center provides a child-friendly setting where investigations can occur and where preventive strategies can be implemented to reduce future incidents of abuse.

Another cause near and dear to the McGillicuddys is Embracing Our Differences, a local project whose mission is to use the arts as a catalyst for creating awareness and promoting the value of diversity, the benefits of inclusion, and the significance of the active rejection of hatred and prejudice. Each year the program mounts an art exhibit on the Sarasota bayfront that matches up works of art illustrating and promoting tolerance and coexistence with appropriate quotations from members of the community.

“We’re co-chairs of that board,” Dennis said. “This past year we had over 2,500 art submissions from 53 countries all over the world. We also have a significant educational program in the school system. Last year, we bused in over 20,000 school kids to view the exhibit, and we promote the program within the school system. Our educational initiatives are really making a difference.

The notion of social justice — of people respecting one another, standing up against hate and prejudice — are core values Graci and I hold. And this is a way for us to express that.”

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The McGillicuddys are also very active in Sarasota’s theatre scene. Their recent donation of $1 million was essential to the $5.6 million restoration of Florida Studio Theatre’s Gompertz Theatre, which has grown from 160 to 230 seats. Construction of an 18,000 square foot addition is underway that will contain two new theatre spaces at the site — a 130-seat cabaret theater and a 100-seat lab theater for play readings, classes, and experimental works.

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“I have been on FST’s board of trustees for close to 25 years and chairman for 20 of those years,” Dennis said. “And we have been financial supporters all of that time. We’ve seen FST grow from a very small theater with 700 subscribers to around 25,000 subscribers.”

Dennis added their help — along with the help of other generous donors in the community — has enabled FST to serve more and more of the theatergoing public.

The McGillicuddys’ philanthropy does not stop there. They also contribute to the Sarasota/Manatee Jewish Federation, Circus Sarasota, Girls Inc., Jewish Family and Children’s Service, Boys and Girls Clubs, the American Jewish Committee, the Moffitt Cancer Center, the Salvation Army, and Resurrection House, to name a few.

Graci said the couple’s involvement with the Gulf Coast Community Foundation has been invaluable in the way the organization helps them manage their philanthropy.

“I think they’re the standard bearers of philanthropy in this community,” she said.

“They hold people accountable for the money they donate. I believe your walk and your talk has to be the same, and for me the Gulf Coast Community Foundation — through their leadership, what they do, and how they do it — sets the standard.”

“Graci and I have made choices about the charities we get involved in based on a principle that resonates with us,” Dennis added. “It comes from a saying I once saw on a picture of a beautiful golf course. It said, ‘There are many things that can catch your eye, but only a few that capture your heart. Pursue those.’”

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STABIL: The Stable Choice for Pavers STABIL Concrete Pavers has been servicing the greater Manatee, Sarasota area for 5 years. Our showroom located at 7080 28th Street Court East Sarasota has all of our products available to the public to view along with samples to take home. With the wide variety of shapes and colors, STABIL will have the ability to fill all of your paver needs. Having a product line that consists of both thin and thick pavers, along with the 4 sizes of coping, gives STABIL the ability to handle any job from new construction to a remodel of you current pool deck. Our well trained staff will work with you to confirm all your needs are filled and you are satisfied with all of your selections.

941-739-7823

www.stabilconcrete.com

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GIVING

Making the World a Better Place Rich & Clare Segall

By Steven J. Smith | Photo by Cliff Roles Perhaps the clearest example of Rich and Clare Segall’s

Salvation Army and four additional community partners,” Rich

dedication to public service can be reflected in acts of selfless-

said. “We collaborate with a lot of other agencies. This program

ness recently demonstrated by their daughter Rachel, who twice

works to prevent recidivism through ways such as family reuni-

served as a surrogate for a gay couple that wanted children.

fication, because a lot of these folks have split off from their

“She had three of her own children and found pregnancies

families. We also have a jail-mentoring program, where we have

easy, as did I,” Clare said. “She wanted to help an old college

staff and volunteers that works with people nearing the end of

friend and his spouse. She is her own person, but I like to think

their term in jail. Again, this program works to prevent them

we had a positive influence on her.”

from going back.”

“She is special in that way of giving,” Rich added.

The Segalls know a thing or two about giving. Leaving a lucrative career in real estate development and management,

As mentioned before, Clare’s passion is Planned Parenthood, to which she has dedicated a great deal of her energy as a member of its Sarasota board.

Rich went into social work after having returned to graduate

“We have four daughters, and when they were born I knew

school for his Masters in Social Work degree as an adult learner

I was going to have to be aware of all of the different options for

so he could better serve his fellow man. Retiring with Clare to

single women,” Clare said. “Having daughters, I’m very passion-

Sarasota 13 years ago, he first volunteered at Jewish Family and

ate about women — their independence and their reproductive

Children’s Service taking on individual and family counseling

rights and their choices. Planned Parenthood is an organization

clients and now serves as board chair for JFCS. Clare, a social

that services women and men, and 90 percent of the work they

activist with strong ties to Planned Parenthood, is co-chair along

do is about reproductive health for women — birth control, Pap

with Margie Barancik of the 2012 JFCS gala, “Magical Moments,”

smears, breast exams, HIV testing, vasectomies. It’s education.

which is the organization’s signature fundraising event.

It’s going into schools and working with kids and teaching them

“We gross over $500,000 and more than 500 people at-

about different options of birth control. Unfortunately, Planned

tend this sold out event,” Clare said. “It will fund so many of the

Parenthood is thought of as an abortion clinic. We have to re-

great programs offered by the JFCS that help children, families,

brand ourselves, because the opposition has so unfairly branded

seniors and veterans.”

us and the good we do.”

Those programs include Senior Outreach Services, for ex-

The Segalls have instilled into their family the importance

ample, where twice a week seniors receive a free lunch, social-

of the Jewish values of Tikkun Olam — making the world a

ization, and counseling on how to improve their lives.

better place — and Tzedekah — acting justly toward people in

“These people are isolated,” Rich said. “This program allows us to reach out to the community.”

Another program Rich helped establish is Aging Isn’t For Sissies, where a safe environment is provided for seniors to come and talk about aging related issues.

Yet another is VIP-ER, which stands for Voluntary Interim Placement-Enhanced Recovery.

“That’s a substance abuse program in conjunction with the scenesarasota.com

need.

“There is always someone who has less than you do,” Clare said. “And it’s your responsibility and your privilege to give, and do for others. You have to give back.”

“JFCS believes strongly in Tikkun Olam,” Rich added. “It says we’re taking care of the world, not just the Jews in it. In fact, 80 percent of our clientele are not Jewish. We feel our mission is the community of the whole world.”

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GIVING

For theSam Love of Family & Sally Shapiro

By Steven J. Smith | Photo by Cliff Roles

Between them they have six children, 10 grandchildren, and six

Sam Shapiro Babies and Children’s Center, which still needs

great-grandchildren, so it’s no surprise they found a renewed

another $500,000 to reach its construction budget goal of

purpose some years ago when approached by Dr. Kay Glasser

$1.7 million, according to Philip King, executive director of

to help make a positive impact on needy Sarasota families.

the Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center.

“You couldn’t say no to Kay,” Sam said. “She was a very per-

“We now have enough money to get started this fall,” King

suasive person. Look what she created. She got me on her

said. “But we want it done by the end of next year.”

board and convinced me to donate my time, my business knowledge, and my money.”

King added potential offerings at the Sally and Sam Shapiro Babies and Children Center could include increased access

A little over 20 years ago, Dr. Glasser co-founded the Glasser/

to specialists, a family practice physician, childhood obesity

Schoenbaum Human Services Center at 1750 17th St. in Sara-

prevention and satellite pharmacy services.

sota, a place where low income and at-risk individuals, families and children could go to find help when they need it most.

“By doubling the size of the space, we’ll also be able to

Today the center houses 17 nonprofit agencies in one location,

double the number of people served there,” he said.

and serves as a model for other communities to follow.

Sally said that means additional doctors will be required as well.

The agencies at the Campus of Caring, as it is more informally known, deliver over 80 human services programs to

“There are three board-certified, full-time pediatricians on

the community and serve approximately 10,000 clients per

board all the time,” she said. “We really need more.”

month. What’s more, many of those programs interact with one another, providing multiple services to the same clients.

King added a family practice on site would neatly fold into

In addition, agencies at the center pay absolutely no rent

the concept of programs at the Campus of Caring, as inter-

— only a small stipend to defray the cost of utilities and

acting with one another.

maintenance — enabling them to keep their operational expenses down while steering funds where they’re needed

“The issue is with transportation,” he said. “Mom and Dad come

most, to client services.

and bring the kids. If they’re sick, too, they have to find their way — usually by bus — to another clinic for adult care. It would be

Sam, whose career up north included a structural steel fabri-

nice if the whole family could be served in one place.”

cating company, a steel coil processing company, and a scrap yard, joined forces with Sally to focus their energies — and

To learn more about the Babies and Children Center or to

their generous contribution of $500,000 — into doubling the

contribute to it, please email Philip King at pking@gs-hu-

size and capacity of the new 12,000-square-foot Sally and

manservices.org or call (941) 365-4545.

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The Warmth of a Small Town, with Big City Amenities!

The T The Van W heatres : ezel Perfo rmin M  The g n li g in R e A solo Thea g Arts Hous ra  The e p St. Armands Circle  tre O ta F lorida Stu araso dio Theatr llet  The S a B ta o  s ra e a The Playe e Florida  The S Great Shopping rs Theatre  W es t hestra: Th rc O ta C o o s ast Black ara y Thea  The S t Symphon Fabulou  Venic West Coas of Sarasota e Theatre ter s W o  r ld b Manatee P Class R zz Clu layers The estaura  The Ja al Gardens ic atre n n t ta s o B y  Selb Festivals & Special Events:  Ringling Inte rnational Arts Festiva Bir n: tio ca l Edu di  Th e Ch alk p Festival art ng: S h Florida ut So of ity  rs ve “C ni ry stal Classic:”Siesta Ke  U of ara y Master Th so l Sand Sculpture Cont  New College e G ta A ge es la t ol eC rea ud  Sarasota Blue  Florida Stat s & Music Festival t F ub Art of ol ho Sc g lor on in gl  Sarasota Film  Rin ida So Fe te sti itu va st l In al ic hn ec T  Suncoast Off Shore Bir ciet  ITT l ta Gr en an D d Pr of d T y… ix ol ho Sc M O  LEC rai l Medicine  T h C e of i ge C r le ol c C i rie u r  Boating & Fishing  Lake E The s Saraso cus ta Ring Osteopathic Barn l rsity um & ing Brot   Keiser Unive ed S ift he G e a th B raso School for front ta Sa ailey C rs and y  Pine View a B ol ilor C ircus Public Scho The  Top Rated ircus r Academy  Out of Doo y  Prew Academ : Sports Opportunities ful Sunsets Mote M ltimore Orioles Beauti Ba the for ing ain arine La Tr g  Baseball Sprin borator ng y wi Ro  World Class

Culture The Arts & useum of Art M

   

The Best of Weather

Country Clubs Abundance of Golf y IMG Sports Academ nch us at Lakewood Ra mp Ca s ort Sp Premier Sarasota Polo Club

White Sugar Sand Beaches: Siesta Key named #1 in Nation by Dr. Beach

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When Companies

Ryan G. Van Cleave

Contrary to what some might think, the economy is not holding U.S.

Sarasota has its fair share of corporate giving and support in all of

companies back from giving... and giving generously. The total giv-

those areas, thanks to the generosity of business such as PNC Wealth

ing to charitable organizations in 2011 was $298 billion, up 4% from

Management, Gateway Bank, Suntrust, Northern Trust, The Klauber

2010’s numbers. How much was from corporations and business en-

Family restaurants, Kerkering Barberio, Beneva Flowers, Half-Acre

tities versus individuals? About $15 billion. But that’s just part of the

Construction, Key Agency, Pinkerton Wealth Management Group

story. An increasing number of businesses choose to give services

of Wells Fargo Advisors, AtrisTree Landscape Maintenance & De-

and time towards philanthropic efforts versus just writing checks.

sign, FCCI Insurance Group, Saks, and Schumaker, Loop & Kendrick. A full list of the generous area companies that give back to our

What are the philanthropic areas that receive the most support?

community in a variety of ways would take up this entire page and

A 2012 Forbes article shares the following: the top cause is social

then some — we’re fortunate to have that volume of supporters.

services, followed by environmental causes, community development, health services, and economic development. One area that’s

Angela Massaro-Fain, the president of Grapevine Communications,

supported by only 20% of companies nationwide that engage in

says her company got started with giving when they were invited

corporate giving is the promotion of entrepreneurship. That’s esti-

to an event in 2002. A woman at the event shared the story of how

mated to increase to 30% by 2014, experts claim.

she wanted to feed neighborhood kids who were hungry. Help-

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It’s never too late to become philanthropic.

It doesn’t take a lot of money. It’s not just about cash.

Time and expertise matters.

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ing one kid turned into helping twenty-five, and before long, she

and our teammates have collectively volunteered more than 24,000

was running a nonprofit organization. Along with her husband and

hours in the community over the past two years, supporting over

family, Massaro-Fain decided to similarly share their good fortune

270 nonprofit organizations. Our team also partners with local non-

with others. Instead of writing checks, though, they did what they

profit organizations to facilitate financial education and workplace

do best—offer free strategic marketing, media buys, PR, and design

training sessions to support financial well-being in our community.

services to help nonprofits spread their mission in the community.

Everyone benefits from being financially savvy.” They’re currently

In 2009, Massaro-Fain responded to a friend whose husband had

engaged in partnerships with Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity, The

been diagnosed with ALS (better known as Lou Gehrig’s disease)

Salvation Army, and many others to help people with budgeting,

by contacting ALS Florida and establishing the first Walk to De-

saving, and the proper, healthy use of credit.

feat ALS for Sarasota and Manatee counties. More than 240 people walked through Lakewood Ranch Corporate Park and raised a total

“Financial support is strong in our community, too, “Callihan adds.

of $68,802.

“For example, last year The Community Foundation of Sarasota County and its partner, the Sarasota Herald Tribune, along with

Massaro-Fain chaired the event again in 2010, and helped raised

The Patterson Foundation and a number of other media partners,

over $66,000. The ALS Walk has continued to expand, and recently

conducted their annual Season of Sharing campaign. Through the

completed its third annual event in our area with more than 500

generosity of these organizations and our caring and engaged com-

walkers raising over $112,000. Grapevine was pleased to donate

munity, over $1.7 million was raised which helped families on the

pro bono services to create ads and signage, sign up donors, and

verge of homelessness.” She goes on to explain that additional evi-

negotiated free media PSAs. The Grapevine staff continues to walk,

dence of the solid state of local philanthropy can be found in the

participate, and donate to this important cause, Massaro-Fain says.

recent launch of The Giving Partner. This collaboration and partner-

But it’s not just this one cause that they support—as of 2010, they’ve

ship between The Community Foundation of Sarasota County, Gulf

donated $1.2 million to various philanthropic efforts.

Coast Community Foundation, Manatee Community Foundation with support from The Patterson Foundation, brought this amazing

One of Grapevine’s clients, Center For Sight, has its own special

tool to the community.

brand of giving. They’re one of the founding members of Mission Cataract USA, a nationwide program that offers free cataract sur-

What is The Giving Partner? It’s a free online database that contains

gery to indigent patients. In 2012, Center For Sight performed 76

information about nonprofits, including their programs, finances,

free cataract surgeries for people who have no insurance and no

and specific needs. It gives nonprofits a way to showcase their work

means to pay for the service. Bausch & Lomb provided the lenses at

and allows donors an opportunity to learn more about an organi-

no charge. The surgeries were performed by Dr. David Shoemaker,

zation before deciding whether to make a donation. The Giving

Dr. William Lahners, Dr. Joshua Kim, and Dr. William Soscia, and

Partner launched in March 2012 with an exciting “36-Hour Giv-

supported by a team of Center For Sight nurse anesthetists, medical

ing Challenge,” where $2.4 million were raised for local nonprofits

technicians, nurses, and administrative staff, all of whom donated

through over 10,700 individual donations.

their services for the day.

Another exciting way that business people give back is through partA strong business area that’s proven to be quite generous with

nerships that pool resources. For instance, Lakewood Ranch has three

community giving is the banking sector. Margaret Callihan—the

Women’s Giving Circles, with two more that are forming now. Wom-

Chairman, President, and CEO of SunTrust Bank, Southwest Florida

en’s Giving Circles have the goal of getting ten women (or more) to

Region—explains that while the economy is challenging, local vol-

join and commit to donating a specific amount of money over a cer-

unteerism and giving has remained strong. “Our purpose at Sun-

tain time period — often it’s as small as $1000 over five years. Once

Trust is to light the way to financial well-being and we take that

the group has generated the combined target amount, it’s put into a

responsibility very seriously,” Callihan says. “We are committed to

donor-advised fund; then the group decides how to use the interest of

making a positive difference in our community and are proud of

that money to assist in nonprofit and charitable efforts.

our legacy of support, volunteerism and community engagement over many years. In addition to meeting the financial needs of our

As Massaro-Fain says, “It’s never too late to become philanthropic.

clients, SunTrust teammates in Southwest Florida give their time,

It doesn’t take a lot of money. It’s not just about cash. Time and

energy, expertise, and talent to community service in many and

expertise matters.” And with so many people willing to share those

varied ways. They serve on numerous community nonprofit boards

things with our community, the future looks brighter indeed.

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SOCIAL

USF Sarasota-Manatee Brunch The University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee’s signature annual fundraising event, Brunch 2012, welcomed 900+ supporters to help raise money for local undergraduate scholarships. Guests included corporate and individual donors, community leaders, volunteers, faculty, staff, students and friends. Nineteen Sarasota and Manatee restaurants and caterers prepared their signature dishes for the event, held under tents on the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus. More than 140 corporate and individual donors gave $245,000 in support of USF Sarasota-Manatee Brunch 2012, including the co-chairs of the event, Mark and Stephany Richmond, owners of Furniture Warehouse. In the past 19 years, Brunch has generated nearly $4 million in gifts, state matching funds and endowment earnings and since 1998, USFSM has awarded $1.48 million in scholarships overall, including over 450 thousand dollars to First Generation students, the first in their families to attend college. Photos by Cliff Roles

Barbara Lewis & Dr. Mona Jain

Ruth Lando, Mary Lemay & Suzy Circle

Arthur & Lynn Guilford, Margaret Callihan, Stephany & Mark Richmond

Shawna Machado & Dennis Stover

Warren & Kathy Simonds & Phil Hammersley

The Reviews Are In!

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www.CafeBaci.net scenesarasota.com

y a d i l o HSH LIST

IT F O R P NO N

WI

pe n, we ho o s a e s y lida ou of the ho it ir p sier for y s a e g it in e iv k g e l ma s to g with th rofits wil p n o any way n l m In keepin a e c r a lo e e s Ther r it is es of the in need. e s o the wish , whethe h n t io t lp u e h ib r ont how to nd welld each c a n a h t , to know l ll a a e h m ds the th big an eless to ic r p s i help, bo , asure nt or tre e l a t , e tim ity. commun r u o f o being

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Jewish Family & Children Services Homeless Veterans and their families turn to JFCS for assistance with basic life necessities including housing and food. This holiday season in order to directly support 25 veterans and their families as they are placed in permanent housing, JFCS is seeking 25 new full size blankets, 50 twin size blankets and 100 new standard pillows. JFCS is also seeking twentyfive $25 grocery store gift cards so families can purchase perishable food items for the holidays. New donated bedding and gift cards can be dropped off at JFCS, 2688 Fruitville

Look No Further Melba Gets Results

Road in Sarasota on weekdays, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

941.366.2224 | jweber@jfcs-cares.org

Ear Research Foundation Did you know that approximately 110,000 people or 16.1% of the population in Sarasota and Manatee counties have hearing loss? This is the highest percentage in the country.

The mission of the Ear Research Foundation’s “Help Us Hear” Campaign is to educate the public on the various treatment options for hearing loss and to provide funds for hearing

In the top 2%

when compared to all 3,200 Realtors in 2011 in Sarasota

aids and implants for those who cannot afford them. This initiative is in collaboration with the Hearing Loss Association of Sarasota, Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, and the Audiology Management Group – various leaders in the hearing equipment industry and generous, caring individuals in our community. Your gift of $500 or more gives the gift of hearing to someone in need. 941.365.0367 | www.earsinus.com

Special Olympics Sarasota County Special Olympics (SO) provides year round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports to children (8 years of age and older) and adults with intellectual disabilities at no cost to the athlete or their caregiver. Sarasota County has just added Unified Flag Football as an official Special Olympics sport and SO is fielding its very first team. They are in need of uniform jerseys and shorts for the athletes. Uniforms are a requirement for competition and it is important for SO athletes to have the proper uniform. 941.412.0402 | SOSarasota@verizon.net.

Y Foundation of Sarasota The Sarasota Y/Safe Children Coalition has kicked off their Foster Angels 2012 holiday program. Several hundred of children in Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto counties are depending on the generosity of donors to have a few gifts under the tree this year with their name on them. To request a wish list(s), please call 941.371.4799 x128 or email Angels@TheSarasotaY. org . The Foster Angels Fund also accepts credit card donations on its website www.safechildrencoalition.org (Click on “Donate”). If you would like to send a check, please make it payable to YMCA Foundation of Sarasota, One South School Ave. Suite 302, Sarasota, FL 34237, Attn: The Safe Children Coalition. 941.371.4799 x128 | safechildrencoalition.org

The Child Protection Center The Child Protection Center located at 720 S. Orange Avenue in Sarasota is focused on the prevention, intervention and treatment of Child Abuse. By donating to the CPC, you will be protecting the innocence of childhood by supporting the Personal Safety and Community Awareness Program. This program strives to create a community in which all children are safe from child abuse and neglect by providing Prevention presentations to more than

“Your efforts in marketing our condo resulted in so many showings and better yet, a sale! It is obvious you are a hard worker and enjoy selling real estate” – Neil Goeppinger “Our home really stood out due to Melba’s knowledge and marketing expertise and she sold it in only 34 days!”

– Jim and Nancy Fitch “I have been involved in multi-million dollar real estate deals for the past 40 years and I can confidently recommend Melba as being, by far, the best Realtor I ever dealt with.”

– Dick Pittenger

Melba Jimenez

P.A.

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(941) 951-6660 W (941) 356-3970 C �������������������� ��������������������������������

Fluent in Spanish and English Five Time Winner of “Best In Client Satisfaction” Award.

20,000 children and adults in our community each year. Child Abuse Prevention classes for children in Pre-K through High School are designed to introduce children to basic personal safety information, promote pro-social behaviors and teach children self-protective skills. One 1-hour Prevention presentation costs $50. Contact Josephine Eisenberg 941.365.1277 | www.CPCsarasota.org scenesarasota.com

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Glasser-Schoenbaum Human Services Center The Glasser-Schoenbaum Human Services Center wishes for all children to have access to healthcare. Donations to help build the Center’s new Children’s Health Clinic will help meet the increasing demand for children’s health services and will serve approximately 33,000 patients a year after the clinic is finished.

To make a donation, contact Executive Director Phil King at G-S Human Services Center, 1750 17th Street, Building J-One Sarasota, 941.365.4545 | pking@gs-humanservices.org.

The Players Theatre Our oldest community theatre has lots of holiday wishes! Underwriting the New Play Festival. For eleven years, The Players has invited Gulf Coast residents over the age of 18 to submit scripts that have not had a prior production for consideration. A minimum of six submittals are selected to be read by actors on stage in August in front of an independent panel of judges and a live audience. One of the winning plays will be selected as “Best of Series” and will be produced at The Players Theatre in the summer of 2014. The playwright will work with a professional dramaturge during the year to prepare the play for production. A gift of $10,000 underwrites the readings in August of 2013, the services of the dramaturge and the production in August of 2014.

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Student Scholarships. Donations to the Build a Better Grownup fund provides tuition to children from a low income family. A donation of $500 helps a child achieve the dream of performing on stage with a scholarship for one acting, dance or singing class per week. A donation of $1,500 provides a child with an eight week summer camp adventure in musical theatre with pre- and post-camp care.

Programming Support. With ticket sales covering approximately 70% of the theatre’s operating expenses, The Players targets to raise $300,000 each year to ensure that the shows go on all year. Broadway Season Sponsorships range from $3,500 to $10,000; Summer Sizzler Season Sponsorships range from $1,500 to $4,000; Individual Performance Sponsorships are available from $500 to $5,000. 941.3652494 | www.theplayers.org.

Junior League of Sarasota The Junior League of Sarasota is in need of a new laptop computer. Their limited budget is earmarked for local community projects and fundraisers, so a new laptop would allow them to focus on what they do best: improving the lives of women and children in the greater Sarasota community. Contact Cynthia A. Rottkamp | 941.544.8117 | jlsarasotatreasurer@verizon.net

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Suncoast BBBSSC wishes that each of their “Littles” (ages 6-18) will have a gift to open for the holidays. Each year, BBBSSC Littles are treated to a holiday party filled with fun for all ages. Your generous donation of a wrapped gift labeled for a boy or girl ages 6 to 18 are greatly appreciated. Gift cards are also a popular gift for the older Littles. Gifts can be dropped off at the Sarasota office location or the Venice office location.

Sarasota: 2831 Ringling Blvd, Suite #A201, Sarasota, FL 34237 | 941.331.4376 Venice: 101 West Venice Avenue, Suite #34, Venice, FL 34285 | 941.488.4009

Habitat for Humanity Sarasota Habitat Sarasota needs a new 15-foot box truck for its ReStore. The truck will be used to pick up an increasing level of donations to Habitat’s Home Improvement and Furniture Outlet. Also, the box truck will help Habitat Sarasota strengthen its organizational capacity while still allowing Habitat to apply every cash donation to the building of homes for low income families. 941.365.0700 x106 | www.habitatsrq.com

Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County A “Home for the Holidays” is what Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County wishes for Christmas this year. Returning veterans and low income seniors and families need support to make their homeownership dreams a reality. Since many materials go into the building of a home, Habitat South County hopes you will consider giving a gift that changes lives. Choose any one of the following items to help make these new homes reality: a bucket of nails for $25; bathroom fixtures for $75; interior doors for $100; electrical wiring $200; windows for $350; plumbing supplies for $750; lumber for walls $1,000, or kitchen cabinets for $1,500. Help keep Habitat partners and community volunteers building safe, decent and affordable housing.

941.493.6606 | www.habitatsouthsarasota.org

Taylor Emmons Scholarship Fund & Payton Wright Foundation The Taylor Emmons Scholarship Fund, which honors the memory of Out-of-Door Academy student Taylor Emmons, provides four-year scholarships to The Out-of-Door Academy for financially challenged students.

The organization will once again be selling fresh, handmade holiday wreaths to help raise funds to support their mission. This marks the organization’s second annual event of this kind and the first time it has partnered with the Payton Wright Foundation, an organization that seeks to raise awareness and funds in support of those touched by pediatric brain cancer.

Balsam fir wreaths from Maine will be available for purchase online and at a location in Sarasota with 100% of the proceeds to be split between the two non-profit public organizations. To order your wreaths, go to www.Temmons.org for delivery anywhere in the continental United States. Or you can pick out a wreath in person at Stickney Point Road and Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, or call 941.915.9249. scenesarasota.com

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All Faiths Food Bank

The need for diapers and baby items knows no season and dona-

All Faith Foods Bank, which provides food to 1 out of 8 residents

tions of personal hygiene items and baby wipes, etc., are always on

in Sarasota and DeSoto counties, needs funds to help them meet

SCLO’s wish list. Ditto for office supplies such as paper and ink.

the growing demand to feed those in need. According to AFFB,

And tops on the organization’s wish list is a grant writer who has

food distribution has increased 90% from 2007-2012. During 2012,

the experience to help SCLO move to the next level, ensuring that

AFFB will distribute 5.6 million pounds of food, which equates to

SCLO can continue providing a ladder up from poverty to those

4.7 million meals. Funding is needed for fresh produce and costs

who most need it, through education, empowerment, and inspira-

approximately $100,000 annually. Just $5 translates to 40 meals;

tional youth programming. 941.360.8660 | www.secondchancelas-

$12 provides a Holiday dinner with all the trimmings; $100 equals

topportunity.org

800 meals; $500 generates 4,000 meals. AFFB says, “A little help goes a long way... the ability to make an impact is within everyone’s grasp.” 941.379.6333 | www.allfaithsfoodbank.org.

The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee The Federation is embarking on an 18 month celebration recognizing Israel’s 65th birthday and the organization has a multitude of

Resurrection House

programs designed to inform and educate the community about

Resurrection House, a day resource center for the homeless in Sara-

the importance of the modern day State of Israel. In order to pro-

sota County, needs backpacks, tennis shoes, men’s jeans waist sizes

vide the quality programming The Federation envisions, they need

28, 30, 32 & 34, and gift certificates to Publix, Target and WalMart.

support. In Jewish tradition the number 18 (Chai) has a great im-

Contact Bill Wilson at 941.365.3759 | www.resurrectionhousesara-

portance and means “life”. The Federation is asking for those in

sota.org

the community who care and believe in the State of Israel to make a contribution of $18. Contact Sarah Wertheimer at 941.371.4546

Second Chance Last Opportunity

x123 | www.jfedsrq.org.

Community-minded individuals can make an immediate difference in the life of a child by donating unwrapped toys and gifts (age

Goodwill Manasota

newborn to 12) for Santa to share at the Second Chance-Last Op-

A new CEO for Goodwill Manasota takes office in January, as well

portunity Christmas Festival on December 22nd. Days later, teens

as three new initiatives that the organization is seeking support for

will be participating in SCLO’s “Calculate The Difference”’ Holi-

– expanding services to accommodate returning veterans and their

day Shopping Program when SCLO will take them to the store with

families; maintaining and enhancing the recycling and green efforts

a calculator and gift card, allowing the teens to choose their own

in Goodwill locations; and, a collaborative partnership with local

gifts while gaining money management skills without even know-

employers to connect 1001 people in need of a job with employ-

ing it. Donations of $25 Wal-Mart gift cards for the teens would

ment opportunities. To help, please contact Veronica Brandon Mill-

be appreciated.

er at 941.355.2721 | www.experiencegoodwill.org.

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Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County The Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County is an after-school program that offers hope and opportunity to every child in our community, especially those who need it most. By focusing on a few core beliefs, BGCMC ensures that kids have caring relationships with adult professionals as well as having a safe place to learn and grow. The organization’s wish list for its clubs and the more than 6,000 kids the Clubs serve includes the following items: ping pong table, PS3 games, Xbox games, DVD players, kids movies/videos on DVD, Wii games, art supplies, pool sticks, school supplies (pencils, crayons, markers, back packs, lined paper), and children’s shoes. 941.761.2582 | www.bgcmanatee.org.

The Salvation Army The Salvation Army’s Center of Hope provides daily meals, emergency shelter, programs for drug and alcohol rehabilitation, transitional living programs, transitional housing for families, emergency financial assistance services, life skill classes

and

support

programs.

The

organization’s

holiday

wish

list

includes:

• A $20 gift provides 10 meals to a homeless man, woman or child at the Center of Hope • White tube socks are a year-round need for men and women at the shelter • As cooler weather approaches, sweatshirts and hoodies for women and men • Blankets, twin sheets and towels for the shelter • Personal hygiene items such as toothpaste, razors, shampoo, combs • A $220 gift provides a 5-day summer camp experience at Camp Keystone for a child • A $500 gift provides a brass instrument for children to learn to play at the Tuttle Center • A $1000 gift provides a new outfit and toys for 10 children in the Angel Tree program • A $25,000 gift provides a state-of-the-art cooking unit for the food service program • A $35,000 gift provides the salary for a case manager to work with clients in The Salvation Army’s drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs.

To make a donation, contact The Salvation Army at 941. 364.8845.

Senior Friendship Centers Senior Friendship Centers in Sarasota and Venice serve people 50 and older and extend into the community with volunteer opportunities for all ages. They have many wishes for the holidays for their various centers, clinics and programs including: Healthy Aging Clinics: • Donations to provide health & dental care for low income older adults • Donations to replace diagnostic equipment, including EKG machines • Volunteer physicians and dentists willing to give a few hours of their time to help seniors in need Nutrition Programs: • Gas Cards to help home delivered meals drivers pay for gas while delivering meals.

Center Services: • Microwave ovens for the Friendship Cafés & Bistros Senior Centers: • Portable PA system to augment Hearing Looping System and improve access for hearing impaired seniors.

• New computers, printers and computer lab chairs.

• Living Rooms Adult Day Services & Caregiver Resource Center • Grocery Gift Cards • DVD & CDS, Boom Box: Lawrence Welk, Country Western CDs; 60’s & 70’s CDs; Musicals etc.

To donate to Senior Friendship Centers, call Francine Diemer, 941.556.3240. scenesarasota.com

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SOCIAL

7th Annual Callaghan Tire Charity Pro-Am Golf Tournament Over 35 pro-legends of golf were on hand for the three-day Callaghan Tire Charity Pro-Am Golf Tournament held at both The Concession Golf Club and the RitzCarlton Members Club. Golf legends included Robert Gamez, Tony Jacklin, Dana Quigly, Andy Bean and Hollis Stacy to name a few. The fun kick-off with a practice round and pairings party the first day, tournament play and “Tall Tales” Party on day two, and concluded with third day play and an awards ceremony. Organized by Dan Callaghan, CEO of Callaghan Tire, one hundred percent of the tournament proceeds go to Golfers Against Cancer, which supports cancer research. Event sponsors were Scene Magazine; Waste Pro, Bridgestone Tire, Moffitt Cancer Center, and Continental Tire. Over the past six years, the event has generated over $250,000 for Golfers Photos by Keith A. Millard Photography Against Cancer.

Jim Dent & Joe Dillane

Tony Jacklin & Ron Milton

Beth Warren, Betty & Dan Callaghan

Justin Ramer, James Mason, Larry Hays & Jim Woodward

Jerry Herd, Lou & Patsy Graham, Fran & Jack Otto

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NEW EXIT 217

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SAVE THE DATE!

2nd Annual Charity Golf Classic & Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament .

Help Us Tee Off & Ante Up for Taylor!

WIN A NEW CAR & $10,000 CASH Saturday ~ January 26, 2013 Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club ~ 7650 Legacy Blvd, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 $150 Per Player 10:30 am: Box lunch and registration ~ 12:00 noon: Tee Off - Shotgun 6:00 pm: Buffet Dinner at The Lake Club ~ 7:00 pm sharp: Ante-Up for Poker To become a sponsor or request additional info, please contact: Sandy Albano, Executive Director, Taylor Emmons Scholarship Fund at salbano@temmons.org 8374 Market Street, Suite 246 � Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 � 941-915-9249 � Temmons.org

DOGEVITY

By Kristine Nickel

Most 18-year old girls are busy chasing boys, but Marsha Panuce had another male she was pursuing by the name of Rexie. “I remember him so well. He was my very first rescue dog,” recalls Marsha. “Rexie was a beagle who was a runner and an escape artist. I was chasing that dog all the time. That’s probably why he kept ending up being given back to the rescue.”

There are hundreds of thousands from the silent generation and baby boomers who love their dogs and will need someone to care for them.

Donte’s Den is that place.

Rexie made a strong impression on Marsha. He was her, “biggest joy for many years,” especially since the next decade found Marsha traveling Europe first as a concert pianist and then as an entrepreneur, gathering fashions for the runway shows she produced in her home town of Chicago.

“I would visit the dog pounds in Western European cities and it was so confusing. The Europeans revere their dogs, but the conditions were horrible.” Those visits created memories that stuck with her.

Fast forward several years and the fashion show producer/concert pianist met the man who would be the human love of her life, Don Panuce. At the time, Don had a Golden Retriever, but by the time they married, a Schnauzer named Ramzy was in their future. “He went to all of my concerts and sat with Don in the wings and promptly fell asleep. Hopefully Ramzy was the only member of the audience to doze off,” she says with a wry grin.

Don and Marsha would have a total of nine Schnauzers during the course of their 24-year marriage, which also produced a thriving business that they moved to Bradenton in 1997, along with 12 families of key employees.

ACI is a manufacturer of electrical switching devices. Marsha was Don’s partner in the business, heading up the companies marketing efforts. “We had a huge respect for what we each brought to the table,” she recalls.

They also shared a very real concern for what would happen to their dogs at the end of their lives. “When we came down here, it was evident that we were going to have to plan for the dogs. We had no immediate family nearby and the list of friends we initially thought about, well, when you consider that your dogs like to sit on your couch, or sleep at the foot of your bed, or have freshly prepared food, the list of friends dwindle.”

The concept of Donte’s Den arose out of that unease – the concept of a facility that would lodge dogs for the rest of the dog’s life in the manner in which the owner specified in a pet trust document. The concept was soon expanded through Marsha’s work on a local television station where she featured dogs who needed forever homes in a segment called, “Dog Days.”

“I learned so much more about dogs, about their needs, about human connections with dogs. The stories could be heartbreaking and then joyful,” recalls Marsha. During the course of “Dog Days”, Marsha helped place over 300 dogs into new forever homes. It also expanded her vision to include dogs for short-term stays at Donte’s Den. And yes, there was a Donte. “Donte came into our life. He was so bright and so caring. Very attentive to everyone’s moods and emotions. Always there to brighten your day.” That care taking was soon put to the test

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as Marsha and Don discovered Don had pancreatic cancer.

has always known, “my calling is to do something to make a differ-

“Don remained committed, even more committed to Donte’s

ence for dogs.” Manatee County – the property is a few miles north

Den after he became ill. We must have looked at and walked 100

of State Road 70 - has been “great to work with,” says Marsha. “They

pieces of property for the facility. After Don passed away last year, it

seem to have a good deal of enthusiasm for the project.”

became a legacy for him,” says Marsha. Donte followed Don just a

Friends in the community have rallied to lend support as well. Li-

few months later. “Donte’s death was unexpected and happened so

ebe and Billy Gamble have applied their love of dogs and supplied Mar-

quickly after Don’s death. That was very devastating,” admits Marsha.

sha with needed equipment to deal with 50 acres. “Billy came out to see

However, it just doubled her commitment to create Donte’s Den.

the property and before I knew it, he had donated a huge mower and a

That commitment took a huge step forward six months ago when

club car that is appropriate for carrying equipment, people and dogs.”

Marsha came upon a piece of property almost by accident – 50 acres

June Simmons has been on board from the beginning as has

marketed as a horse farm. “I loved what I saw on the selling agent’s DVD,

Renee Hamad, Drs. Howard Small and Anne Chauvet, Jeanette

but I’ve learned not to get emotionally involved with real estate. The nego-

D’Angelo and countless others. On the corporate side, SCENE Maga-

tiations went back and forth for quite a while until I told the owner what I

zine and WWSB40-ABC 7, SARASOTA are early and influential sup-

intended to do with the property. That sealed the deal. He is a dog lover

porters. “Our advisory committee is forming and it’s very unique,”

too, and asked if his dogs could eventually have a place in Donte’s Den.”

says Marsha. “It’s made up of prominent dogs. Of course, they need

That bit of kismet brought 50 acres of pristine Florida country-

their owners to drive them to the meetings.”

side into Marsha’s life as the future site of the facility that will be home

Nationally known ‘animal architects’ have been contacted and

to 100 short- and long-term residents. The facility will have a place

visited the property, consulting with Marsha to create a state-of-the

for those dogs that have been abandoned and made homeless. Dogs

art facility utilizing all new technology. In the interim, fundraising for

whose owners have short-term needs such as a military deployment

the 501(3)C will begin. “I know that this is an innovative concept,”

will be cared for as well as dogs whose owners have placed their trust

she admits. “It’s a concept whose time has come. There are hundreds

in Donte’s Den to continue their lifelong care.

of thousands from the silent generation and baby boomers who love

“Whether a dog’s care has been entrusted to us by his owner or brought to us as homeless or abandoned, all dogs will receive the best care and treatment,” stresses Marsha.

The property has been a blessing for the woman who says she

scenesarasota.com

their dogs and will need someone to care for them. Donte’s Den is that place. We’re truly building a community of joyful dogs.”

From Scene’s dog-loving editor: If you would like to help, call 941.545.8387 or email marsha@dontesden.org.

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Scenes from an Interview:

Gil Waters

by Gus Mollasis

A visionary sees things that are not there before they become reality. They are one part dreamer and another part doer but they are always someone who looks forward. They dream of building beautiful bridges others may find obtrusive. They believe in creating wonderful walking streets even when others put up roadblocks. They envision the future, focus on it and fight with all their heart and soul to create something, even if others think their ideas are out of touch. The fact is the visionary is not out of touch. They just see things much clearer, faster and more possible than those without vision. The good news is that the visionaries and non-visionaries usually meet somewhere down the road that is life, often arriving to the right conclusion. Gil Waters is a visionary who still sees great things in Sarasota’s future. Aside from founding what is now FCCI, an insurance company that makes up one of the area’s largest industries, Waters is responsible for building many great things in his life, one of which is Sarasota’s Ringling Bridge. From his perch on Golden Gate Point overlooking the magnificent Ringling Bridge that he envisioned before anyone else did, I visited Gil Waters and we took a look at some of the scenes from an interview of his life.

Where were you born?

Reading, Pennsylvania.

When did you come to Sarasota and what was your first impression?

November 17, 1949. I was driving down 41 and right next to the Ringling Museum I saw the lady that was on that buffalo

What were you like as a kid?

(sculpture). She’s all tied up in chains, but it’s such a moving

I was a small, skinny and smart kid who grew up during the Great

thing. It struck me as here’s a place that’s different, and my

Depression.

God, what is it doing here.

Where did you go to school?

Tell me about your bride and what makes the relationship work.

I went to public school in Connecticut from 1931-1938. I was

My second wife, Elisabeth. We’ve been together 19 years

a good student, but nothing fancy. Then we went to New York

and married 14 years. She is Austrian and like most European

City, which even then had a first class education. Eventually I

women she is tough, but fair. The easy way to go is to be very

went to the Bronx High School of Science and then went to Yale

loving, appreciative and not express a contrary opinion.

for my formal education where I majored in Slovic studies.

Why do you love Sarasota?

What do you consider yourself to be first and foremost?

I’ve lived in seven or eight cities. As far as a home is con-

I have been lucky enough to have ‘on the job’ journalist training

cerned, I have no other place because when I was in those

in Indiana and Connecticut before I got here. The kind of training

other places I was working, and I didn’t have roots anywhere

that you get in life from journalism is such a valuable commodity.

else. Sarasota offers you more intensive, satisfying life choices.

I’ve never quit using it in whatever business I have been in.

It teaches you to look at what’s going on, try to figure out what

What is something we could not afford to lose?

it means, try to figure out the people and the activities and what

The senior cultural group. When I came here, the Florida West

their meaning is and then you apply that meaning. I go some-

Coast Symphony was in its first year. The Players was 15-years

where quietly and figure out the priorities of what’s important–

old. Now the various cultural activities are deeply rooted and

the people who are doing it. That’s what this is all about. It’s an

they’re the ones that keep attracting people who instantly fall

internal procedure and I’ve used it in every business I have been

in love with this town. They support what they love and when

involved with. I’ve never really closed the advertising and PR

they pass on, there are one, two or three people that take their

department in my office. I’m still doing it.

place. That phenomenon is what makes Sarasota what it is.

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Paint your perfect picture of Sarasota 50 years from now.

Sarasota needs a walking street. Sarasota will gain international

exactly like the architect’s rendering. When I look at it, it’s never old and it gives me a great smile of satisfaction.

fame for becoming the first real big city that accomplishes this.

People from Europe will see that we are like them. We need this

Besides the walking street, name something else you would do

for business purposes. I’m selling the idea of a walking street.

to help shape Sarasota’s future?

I see trees on Main Street and it becoming 85 feet wide. I see

The next thing to attack is the airport. We need to make it a real

people on it as if it was a parade, and the crowd is there all

international airport so that it can attract Europeans who now

the time. It will be a different type of downtown–walkable and

choose to vacation on the rocky Mediterranean.

green. If you have been places like I’ve been, there are mental visions that I can picture here. In Vienna, for example, there

What motivates you to get involved?

are young boy quartets who play Mozart on the walking streets

My inner voice telling me that I’ve done something that needed

while the people stand around and cheer with their violin cases

doing and what the truth is. If I see that you are more motivated

open waiting for people to throw in Euros. That is what we call

and in it for more than just the paycheck, and that you are inter-

in the US the 100% block, because that’s the place where 100

ested in certain things in town and that you will give them the

square feet rents for the highest possible rent. It is frustrating to

weight they deserve, then at that point I open anything that I

deal with people who want cars on Main Street. What they are

have for you. Truth is all that matters.

really saying is, “I want a parking spot near my store.”

What is the most significant thing that you believed in your youth, What is a visionary?

that you have changed your mind about as you have gotten older?

A visionary is someone who asks the question you asked me earlier,

Ah. In 1948, I was City Hall reporter for the New Haven Register

“What’s Sarasota going to look like 50 years from now?” I see it from

and I voted for Harry Truman, while working for Henry Wallace.

a physical sense that all the buildings on Main Street will be long

I was a liberal, a New Deal liberal and a child of the Depression.

gone. This summer my wife and I took a tour and we landed in 18

My parents never owned a house or a car. My present philosophy

cities and each one of them is a walking city with a walking street.

is simply that you can’t take more out of society than you put in.

Are you a visionary?

Are you still hopeful for America?

Sure. I remember seeing that vicious cartoon that the Herald Tribune

(Long pause) I’ll tell you what I am hopeful about for Sarasota. I see

ran to declare war against the Ringling Bridge. I knew their depic-

a new group of people coming here. They’re in good shape. They’re

tion was not what it was going to be. It took a year to raise enough

bigger than I am. They got a pretty lady on their arm with two kids,

money to show everyone what the bridge was really going to look

walking down Main Street at five o’clock and having a great time.

like. I told the architect to give the perspective that Pierro Rivolta would see from his front yard. Am I a visionary? Yes, I guess so.

Are you a religious or spiritual person?

No. But I am Old Testament believer, an eye for an eye, and I

Is seeing the Ringling Bridge built your greatest accomplishment?

don’t believe in turning the other cheek.

Yes. And I’m lucky to see it realized. (Waters hands me a copy of an article that names him one of the 10 most influential business

Describe your perfect day here in Sarasota.

people of the 20th Century in Sarasota County). Now my great

We made progress on the bridge. We’re making progress on the

passion is in creating a walking street for Sarasota.

walking street. I love going down to Main Street on Saturday mornings. That’s what I see as a perfect day and the future for Sarasota.

Tell me the greatest thing you learned from your experience in helping to get the Ringling Bridge built.

That I am unable to figure out how to overcome inward thinking

How do you want to be remembered?

He was like a stud horse. He always did the best he could.

people. That’s a soft way of saying closed-minded people. I still don’t know how to deal with them. I yell louder, but my family

The SRQ Visionary Tribute was recently launched to honor

tells me that is counter productive. At the end of the day, I feel

Sarasota County visionaries who are making an outstanding

good that the bridge was built and it gives me great satisfaction.

economic, philanthropic, and political contribution in our com-

There was no way that it could have looked like the cartoon in

munity and to carry on their legacy and complete their vision(s).

the newspaper, which showed the slope of the bridge grossly ex-

The Tribute will honor Gil Waters with a “Lifetime Visionary

aggerated. The architect’s rendering was in fact a 4% slope that

Award” at a luncheon on January 4, 2013 at the Hyatt Hotel.

depicts the bridge that you see now. Even three to five years later,

For additional details, to become a sponsor, to purchase your

people who would say, “Isn’t it awfully huge and overwhelm-

ticket(s), and/or to make a donation towards Gil Waters’ legacy,

ing?” And I would say no, it’s exactly a 4% grade and looks

please access www.srqtribute.com

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Join New College of Florida as we celebrate the inauguration of President Donal O’Shea, Ph.D.

Friday, February 15

Koski Bell Tower Dedication 12:30 p.m. Free and open to the public.

Inauguration Ceremony 3 - 4:30 p.m. Free and open to the public.

Saturday, February 16 Academic Showcase

10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Free and open to to the public.

Featuring global education leaders and notable alumni.

Inaugural Ball 6 - 11 p.m., New College Bayfront Tickets: $350

Information

Dr. Donal O’Shea is an internationally recognized scholar and academic leader.

He was the dean of faculty and vice president for academic affairs at Mount Holyoke College before becoming president of New College of Florida in July 2012.

foundation@ncf.edu 941.487.4800 5800 Bay Shore Road Sarasota, Florida ncf.edu

EDUCATION

EDUCATION MATTERS

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

SCENE continues its community-centered focus by presenting some of the most exciting intellectual happenings taking place in our community. Education Matters focuses on the difference-making programs, events, teachers, and students of our area schools. This month, we proudly feature State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota.

With Veterans Day still recent in our memory, it only makes

No matter their background—whether they have experi-

sense to focus this month’s Education Matters on State College of

enced combat or not—veterans face unique challenges. Some

Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF). Why? For the third year, it has

have suffered physical disabilities. Some have PTSD. Some feel

been named a 2013 Military-Friendly School by G.I. Jobs maga-

alienated from younger classmates. Some miss the close friend-

zine, the premier publication for military personnel transitioning

ships and intensity of military life. And some struggle to adjust

into civilian life. This honor means that SCF is among the top 15%

to varied class schedules, which is so much in contrast to the

of all U.S. colleges, universities, and trade schools for “exhibit-

heavily regimented world of the military.

ing leading practices in the recruitment and retention of students

Bill Graydon, an SCF alum who started the Veterans Ex-

with military experience and ensuring the success of military ser-

change Club in fall 2010 with SCF fellow students Marc Killam

vice members, veterans, and spouses as college students.”

and Sean Corbett, has recently agreed to serve as the school’s

Enrolled right now at SCF are more than 400 veterans from

veterans benefits advisor at SCF Venice. “My primary focus is

all branches of the military. That might not seem like a big num-

to ensure the student veterans use their VA educational benefits

ber when you consider that 800,000 veterans are now attending

efficiently and appropriately according to VA regulations,” says

U.S. colleges, but it’s not about how many you serve but how

Graydon. “In my role, I am able to get to know student veterans

well you serve them. And no population deserves our support

at SCF. Each veteran is unique, and understanding those indi-

any more than those who’ve risked their lives for our freedom.

vidual qualities are essential to being able to appropriately offer

Part of what makes SCF so friendly to veterans is that they

guidance. Today’s veteran has many choices when it comes to

have a designated facility with computer stations, a veterans

using the educational benefits they have selflessly earned, and

benefits advisor, and a student veteran organization. This user-

it is my job to provide each veteran with the best and most ac-

friendly “one-stop” setup has eased the worries veterans have

curate information so that I can ensure the timely achievement

when they enroll in college for the first time at SCF and utilize

of their educational goals.”

their VA education benefits. scenesarasota.com

One of the real challenges Graydon faces is to find ways to December 2012

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Dazzling People Deserve

Dazzling

Smiles

Dr. B. Jimenez of Beneva Dental

The Man Behind Some of the Best Smiles in Town Restorative & Cosmetic Dentistry 5917 S. Beneva Road, Sarasota

941.924.2939

www.BenevaDental.com

quickly resolve benefit payment issues from the VA. Every U.S. military veteran is promised the GI Bill, which allows them to attend college with the financial backing of our government. When that system is delayed, veterans suffer. Graydon strives to ensure that every veteran gets the resources they need to stay in college.

Let’s face it: the numbers related to veterans in U.S. colleges are alarming.

According to a 2012 report by the University of Colorado-Denver, an estimated 88% of veterans drop out of college during their first year, and only 3% actually graduate. At SCF, Graydon, Jason Collins and Dr. Paul Nolting make every effort to help veteran students succeed in their journey to achieve a college degree.

Jason Collins, the president of the Veterans Collegiate Association at SCF Bradenton, thinks that the important function of their club is the camaraderie it fosters. This is as much a social thing as something to help get veterans

Richard Landsaw, Patrick McPadden and Sean Corbett II prepare a barbeque meal for the Veterans Exchange’s fundraiser at Fall Frolic held at SCF Venice in November.

Proceeds will benefit troops overseas and organizations including Toys for Tots.

enrolled in college and adjust more successfully to civilian life. Their faculty advisor, Dr. Paul Nolting, adds, “What has impressed me most about the members of the VCA is their effort to promote veteran students helping each other and raise awareness to faculty and staff of the problems veterans may be facing while attending college.” Having so many people at SCF understand

and appreciate issues veterans face plays a huge role in the way veterans are treated there.

Perhaps Collins explains the situation best: “Most veterans volunteered their lives to support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America and protect freedom, liberty and our way of life. Please show them, all of them from every era— WW II, Korea, Vietnam, Panama, Grenada, Somalia, Bosnia and Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan—the proper respect they deserve.” Thanks to understanding schools like SCF, they have a place where the readjustment process of becoming civilians again goes smoothly.

For more information about veterans services at SCF, contact veterans benefits advisors Dennis Anglin at 941-752-5426 at SCF Bradenton and Bill Graydon at 941-408-1446 at SCF Venice.

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ARTS & CULTURE

The Visua l Arts...

...so rich in inspiration, ambition and sheer beauty. SCENE proudly recognizes the passion and talents of local visual artists. Artists are selected by an independent panel organized by the Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County.

Bernice Ferst According to artist Bernice Ferst, Philadelphia was a wonderful place to grow up. Her parents were hardworking people who didn’t have the time to take Bernice and her sister places, so they encouraged the sisters to seek out the city’s riches on their own.

They quickly learned how to find their way around, and by the time Bernice was ten-years-old, she headed out to explore the city’s history. There was Independence Hall, The Liberty Bell, Valley Forge – the choices were endless. The sisters’ historical explorations led to their discovery of museums including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Rodin Museum, The Barnes Foundation and numerous galleries. It was a wonderful time in her life.

Over the years, Bernice tried her hand at many forms of art. First came oils, but they didn’t move fast enough for her. Watercolor was frustrating no way to make corrections. So, Bernice decided to just enjoy looking at art and put the brushes away. Frequently she would do a day trip to New York and quickly fell in love with The Museum of Modern Art. It was later in her life when Bernice discovered her passion for paper collage. She’s often asked what triggered her desire to explore this art form. According to Bernice, she had always been fascinated by the process of cutting shapes from magazines, catalogs, etc. It took her back to the days of her childhood when she would spend countless hours cutting out paper dolls. Combining the three things that have always attracted her—shapes, composition, and color—Ferst calls her work “From Shapes to Design.”

Now, at age 95, Bernice has a collection of almost 200 collages. She says she has taken great pleasure in creating each and every one of them. She laughs that she often tells herself to let up for a while, but before she knows it, she is at it again.

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SOCIAL

Planned Parenthood Deadtime Stories Bash More than 500 partygoers enjoyed Planned Parenthood’s annual Safe Sex Halloween Bash. The theme was “Deadtime Stories” and Michael’s On East was transformed into a land of twisted fairytales. Costumed guests danced, dined and partied the night away. The décor ranged from creepy to hilarious and more than 50 volunteers and staff worked tirelessly to create an evening of fun while reminding guests about safe sex and the many reproductive health services provided by Planned Parenthood.

Event co-chairs and creative masterminds were Kate Atkins, Christina Fraser, Kim Mancini, and Veronica Pastore. Major event sponsors included Mark Steinwachs & Jarred Wilson, Leslie Glass/ Reach Out Recovery, TicketSarasota, 105.9 the Buzz, Obsidian Public Relations, Scene Magazine, Hangover Gone, This Week in Sarasota, and Sarasota Architectural Salvage. Photos by Cliff Roles

Brent Greeno, Ryan & Teresa Inskeep, Mike & Mindy Rohan, Bob & Terry Jack

Christina Fraser & Kate Atkin

Lynn & Richie Barrie

Jan Chester & Veronica Pastore

Cassandra & Eve Caballero

scenesarasota.com

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SOCIAL

Behind the Scene

Society Maven Debbi Benedict Gives the Latest Scoop

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Just because it is the holidays, charitable

dessert comes with a magic wand to create your

galas and luncheons do not take a rest. Oh my

own “magical moment”. Just don’t make any of

no, Poodle. They are going full force. Put on

your tablemates disappear before the dancing

your Santa hat, spin the dreidel, and harness

begins. Once again this year, the popular gala

up the reindeer – I think I may be mixing

was sold out by Labor Day. Sponsors are Gerri

holidays up a bit here. It’s time to indulge in a

Aaron, Benderson Development, Howard and

little holiday merriment!

Betty Isermann, Betty Schoenbaum, BMO/

What’s the most glamorous soiree of the

Harris Bank, Sarasota Bay Club, Gulf Coast

holiday season? It has to be the Jewish Family

Community Foundation, and SCENE Magazine.

and Children’s Service Gala – Magical Moments,

The achingly beautiful strains of Federico

co-chaired by Margie Barancik and Clare Segall.

Agostini’s violin and the enchanting piano

With the backdrop of the Ritz Carlton ballroom

sounds by Derek Han will fill the grand wood-

and a glittering performance by the Sarasota

paneled music room of the Charles Ringling

Orchestra, as always, underwritten by grande

Mansion for La Musica International Music

dame Bea Friedman, the excitement in the air

Festival’s Sonata A Due. This year La Musica’s

is palpable as beautiful ladies swish by in their

season will celebrate Artistic Director Maestro

flowing ball gowns and sparkling jewels. As a

Bruno Giuranna’s 80th birthday. It’s always

special treat, child prodigy, Maria Wirries will

a charming intimate gathering. Following the

sing with the orchestra, including her rendition

recital the dinner will feature Cornish game

of that sweet, but powerful song, Somewhere

hen. You really do feel as if you are enjoying

Over the Rainbow. Don’t be surprised if your

a captivating dinner at someone’s magnificent scenesarasota.com

Simply the best Italian food in town.

Sunday Bloody Mary, Bellini and Bubbly Brunch from 10 AM to 2 PM.

Restaurant, Wine & Full Bar

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home, with the most interesting dinner companions. Classical music lovers are such an erudite bunch! I always have such a grand time! New this year will be Epicurean Encore, a cookbook with recipes from past and present musicians, board members, subscribers, and friends. Kay Curtis has done the drawing on the cover of the book.

Pure Golf Club Experience

You must get a copy. SCENE is the sponsor of this bewitching evening.

You are sure to feel the warm holiday spirit at Florida Center for Early Childhood’s Festival of Trees, Lights, & Holiday Gifts at Michael’s On East. Melissa Caldwell is the chair and comedian Tim Wilkins is the emcee. This year is the event’s 25th

IMG Academy Golf Club, the area’s most playable and scenic golf course, is the bestkept secret in southwest Florida for golfers of all levels. Combined with the exceptional food and service in The Grille Room, you’re certain to have a terrific “season”.

anniversary and it will be celebrated

2, 3 & 4 Month Seasonal Memberships

a presentation by Center alumnus, Natasha

• No Initiation fee

Grabowski, who started at the facility as

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with a tribute video featuring community leaders such as Sen. Michael Bennett and

an infant and is now a successful college student. Lots of live trees decorated in white lights and fresh wreaths donated by the Emmons family will be auctioned off, as will a nautical-themed tree decorated and donated by the Luffing Lassies sailing group. Other live auction items include a trip to St. Augustine and a weekend at the Renaissance Vinoy Resort and Golf Club.

Sponsors include Caldwell Trust, Gulf

Dakkak

Coast Community Foundation, Publix Super Markets Charities and SCENE.

Insurance

Enjoy cocktails on the plush lawn with the warm sounds of the bagpipe and then ascend the elegant double stairway

We Protect What’s Important To You Because You’re What’s Important To Us!

to The Oaks Club’s grand and gracious ballroom for Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center’s SPARCCle for the Holidays, chaired by Carol Chiarella. Honorary chairs are Jean Gay and Mary Ann

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George & Mary Dakkak

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“Protecting you is our family business.”

Robinson. After imbibing the signature drink of the evening, a Sparrcletini, of course, you will be ready to jump and jive to the Big Z Band. Live auction items include a cruise to the Caribbean and the chance drawing is for a Judith Ripka bauble from Tilden Ross Jewelers. In addition to Carol and Mary Ann, sponsors scenesarasota.com

include Tina and Jason Epstein, Luisa and Robert Goldman, Susan Erhart, Patricia Good, The Observer Group, and Gloria and Al Webel.

Michelle Crabtree

Realtor, Broker Associate, CLHMS, CRS, CIPS, GRI, PMN, ABR, TRC, RSPS, AWWD, SFR, GREEN

2011 Five Star Real

A divine sugar high is what to expect

Estate Agents “Best In Client

at Make-A-Wish Foundation’s Christmas

Satisfaction” – 4 Years

in Candyland. Phil Mancini and Michael Klauber will transform Michael’s On East’s

2010 Florida Realtor Honor

ballroom into a virtual winter wonderland

Society – 4 Years

of sugary childhood delights. Bring your

2010 Director, Sarasota

children or grandchildren to have their

Association of Realtors (SAR)

faces painted, get a couple of glitter

– 3 year term

tattoos, which are all the rage, and enjoy interactive edibles. What are interactive

2009 Women’s Council of

edibles, you say? Why it’s a fancy way

Realtors (WCR) Sarasota

to say you get to decorate sugar cookies,

“Business Woman of the Year”

of course! The coup de grace though is a chocolate fountain – yum! What little girl, or big girl for that matter, doesn’t love a chocolate fountain! The Short Giraffe will be providing mini desserts for all. The Gulf Coast Ballet will have ballerinas dancing and the real Santa Claus will be there! If all of that is not enough to entertain the

Cell: 941.724.HOME (4663) Office: 941.907.9595 Email: Sales@CrabtreeHomes.com www.CrabtreeHomes.com A third generation local & Broker Sales Associate since 1982; dedicated to your needs. Serving Sarasota, Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch.

2008 WCR Sarasota Chapter President 2007 SAR “Meritorious Service Award” 2005 WCR Sarasota “Realtor of the Year”

little ones, Rudolf and Frosty the Snowman movies will be on the big screen. Who else will be there? Lots of Wish families who for one day don’t have to think about hospitals and illness. That’s the best gift of all.

Comedienne and animal lover Elayne Boosler is headlining at the Humane Society of Sarasota County’s Hot Dogs and Cool Cats – Laugh Your Paws Off event at the Sarasota Yacht Club. Cochairs are Christine Goodall and John Raleigh. Favorite local comedians and emcees, Les McCurdy and Ken Sons will open for Elayne. I love those guys!

The Humane Society is celebrating their 60th anniversary this year. There will be several K-9s greeting guests and will be available for adoption. Live auction items include trips to the San Francisco Wine Valley, France, Bali Hai and an African Photo Safari. Also being auctioned is a special Board Wine Cellar, featuring select wines hand-picked by the members of the Humane Society’s Board of Directors. Sponsors are Mercedes scenesarasota.com

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Ultimate Customer Service...

Denise Mei REALTOR®

Medical, Syprett Meshad Resnick Lieb & Dumbaugh, Norton Hammersley, Lopez, & Skokos, Band Weintraub, Titanium Asset Management and Tervis Tumbler.

Oooh, I wonder if that means a fab Tervis Tumbler is the party favor? I hope so!

Capturing Camelot is the title of bestselling author Kitty Kelley’s new book, with iconic images of the Kennedy White House by legendary photographer Stanley Tretick. Women’s Resource Center’s A Magical Time Luncheon, one of WRC’s famous and fabulous pre-Renaissance events, will feature the indomitable Ms. Kelley at Marina Jack. Kitty is always a bit controversial and hopefully this book is no different, though the publicity for the book says her copy is heart-warming and insightful. Drats! I like a little gossip with

Cell: 941.685.3198

my Camelot! I will plan on wearing my

Office: 941.951.6660 DeniseMei@michaelsaunders.com 1801 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 DeniseMei.michaelsaunders.com

pearls, white gloves, and pillbox hat to get into the spirit of the day. BookStore 1 is their community partner.

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Embracing Our Differences, co-chairs



Carol Buchanan and Dennis and Graci McGillicuddy are hosting a luncheon at Michael’s On East. You know about Embracing Our Differences, don’t you?

It is an international outdoor art exhibit on the bay front of 39 large billboard size images reflecting the theme of enriching lives through diversity. It is also the



second largest education program in



exhibit. The luncheon is an opportunity

                

efforts, including the creation of a new

SW Florida. Over 4000 students visit the to update supporters on their current art teacher workshop. Sponsors are Gulf Coast Community Foundation, Jewish Federation, Ringling College of Art & Design, and YEA Arts.



   



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Though they are calling it a “private dinner party” (imagine me winking my eye in a very exaggerated way here), Katherine Harris and Anders Ebbeson are hosting a masquerade ball honoring community stalwart and philanthropist Margaret Wise at their palatial new home, Cap Joie. It is scenesarasota.com

a fundraiser for Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation and Asolo Repertory Theatre, two of Margaret’s favorite charities. I was in Michael’s Craft Store the other day when one of the attendees and her crew were gathering all sorts of delicious baubles and beads for her mask. It is sure to be one of those parties that go down in the annals of Sarasota Society lore!

Another event being held at the Harris/Ebbeson home is the Red Cross Mad Hatter Holiday Tea Party. Did you see the invitation? It is absolutely darling. One of the cutest I have seen so far this season. Diane McNeel is the chair and she tells me there are going to be all sorts of fun holiday happenings going on such as carolers and a large model train display. Of course, there is going to be a hat contest for the ladies and the gentlemen will convene in a private setting separate from the tea. Don’t be surprised to see your favorite local celebrity serving you.

Mattison’s will be catering. As with the party honoring Margaret Wise at their home, there is to be no photography, as this is at a “private home”. The scoop is that Katherine’s 23,000 square foot manse is to be featured in a major magazine (my guess is Architectural Digest, though it is truly only a guess) and she is under a contract clause that stipulates no photos of her house appear anywhere else before their spread hits the newsstand.

Top sponsors are Gulf Coast Community Foundation, Center for Sight, and Nikki Sedacca, followed by Peter Plotkin, Williams Parker, BB&T, and Costco.

This is top, top secret, but look for details during this month for a special WEDU Downton Abbey Season 3 preview party.

Remember how last season ended with Matthew proposing to Lady Mary in the snow outside at Downton Abbey? It was tres romantic. My spies tell me that the party just might be a bridal shower for Lady Mary. Instead of a toaster or mixing bowls for Lady Mary, you can bring a gift for WEDU, hopefully in a monetary donation, because really, even as England society changes, I don’t see Lady Mary standing over a hot stove, do you, Poodle? And it being England, you know that a fetching chapeau will be de rigueur attire for guests. Do you think the Queen, or maybe at least Kate, will attend?

Apparently I had started on the eggnog a bit early this year when in last month’s column I stated that it was State College of Florida who was sponsoring Brunch 2012, when I knew darn well it was University of South Florida. Thanks goodness I did state that it was indeed USF correctly in the rest of the paragraph!

Hope all your bells jingle, jingle very merrily during this holiday season and that this is your best Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanza ever!

Until next time...TaTa! Debbi Benedict is SCENE’s society maven and Special Issues Director.

Contact Debbi at 941-483-4460 or debbibenedict@verizon.net. scenesarasota.com

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d g n n a eni r G Op

Peter & Susan Migliaccio invite you to experience the warmth, comfort and world-class food & wine at their new, downtown Italian Restaurant.

A Real Italian Experience from Start to Finish!

1213 N. Palm Ave. | Sarasota, Florida 34236 | 941-366-1840 | www.casa-antica-restaurant.com | casanticarestaurant@aol.com

SOCIAL

Cas Antica Restaurant Grand Opening

‘Tis the season to be formal

One of Sarasota most well-known restaurateurs, Peter Migliaccio, returns to the dining scene with Cas Antica, a gem of an Italian restaurant located at 1213 N. Palm Avenue in a charming historic building. Diners packed the quaint culinary boutique for its recent grand opening and were treated to delicious and classic Southern Italian food. Peter and his wife, Susan, call the restaurant their home and hope that the community will embrace the restaurant as their “home away from home.”

Photos by Keith A. Millard Photography

Photo by Corinthia Saffo

Studio Five at 1530 Dolphin Street • Sarasota, FL 34236

941.366.7780

CravatsClothiers.com

Peter Miagliaccio (2nd from left) and The Gang

TARGET MARKET DIRECT MAIL CAMPAIGNS Nancy Lyon & Tom Towlor

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1500 N. Washington Blvd. • Sarasota, FL 34236 941-366-0755 • 800-282-6192 • fax 941-365-6327 www.SerbinPrinting.com Greg Heidt & Anja Deichmann scenesarasota.com

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GIVING

By Joy Weston

T H E P E O P L E & PA S S I O N B E H I N D C O M M U N I T Y P H I L A N T H R O P Y

“Imagination is not only the uniquely human capacity to envision that which is not, and therefore the fount of all invention and innovation. In its arguably most transformative and revelatory capacity, it is the power that enables us to empathize with humans whose experiences we have never shared.”

– J.K. Rowling

Imagine. Imagine just for a moment that everything wonderful you want

According to Doug Easterling, the chair of the Department of Social

to happen is possible and that your unique gifts are exactly what are need-

Sciences and Health Policy within the Division of Public Health Scienc-

ed to make it so. I am sharing J.K. Rowling’s quote because I felt her words

es at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, “Social capital is im-

perfectly describe the motivation and process behind the philanthropic

portant in determining a community’s ability to advance the health and

spirit that materializes magic and miracles from seemingly nothing.

well-being of local residents, respond effectively to natural disasters,

In a world where the needs, issues and sources of help and support

and plan ahead for future challenges and opportunities. Social capital

are constantly changing, holding on to imagined possibilities is vital for

encourages social trust and membership and inversely, a lack of social

success. And by living a life of purpose, you are already doing more for

capital can impair health.”

the collective consciousness than you think. But even that is not enough.

In Robert Putnam’s 1995 journal article, Bowling Over, he noted that

It takes action to make the dream a reality. It takes re-perceiving what

communities with a high level of social capital have better physical and

philanthropy is and examining your relationship to it. It takes choosing

mental health, stronger economics and better systems for educating and

to be a part of the changes you want to see.

caring for the youth. His main argument for classifying social capital as a

Philanthropy was reinvented a century ago with what John Rockefeller

geographical concept is that the relationships of people are shaped and

called “the business of benevolence.” It was Fredrick Goff, president of

molded by the areas in which they live, and it is therefore our responsi-

Cleveland Trust in Ohio, who started the world’s first community foun-

bility to use those assets wisely.

dation and it was the result of an efficiency issue more than benevo-

So, what exactly is “generative thinking”? It is generosity moved be-

lence, as his impetus was to improve the way the company did business.

yond self-expression, allowing individuals to see things differently and

He had to come up with an idea of how to manage the smaller endowed

perceive new possibilities beyond current constraints. Being on the

charitable trusts intended to benefit the residents, while the bank con-

generative edge is about finding the power and potency to change and

tinued to take care of investments.

transform the unexamined portal of our prosperity that is conscious in

Goff’s solution created a separate tax-exempt public charity to serve thou-

all aspects of our life.

sands of people with a common concern – improving the quality of life and

Generosity is nothing more and nothing less than the foundation

helping their region meet the challenges of changing times. His idea birthed

upon which it’s built. We won’t solve the big problems of the world just

over 700 community foundations in the US and another 500 foundations

by opening our hearts because the stakes are much too high. Yet without

around the world. Today, Florida’s Gulf Coast foundations are propelled by

a generous heart too many doors are closed and empathy is not given

some of the brightest and savviest energetic leaders in the nation and these

a garden in which to grow. Too often we undervalue the gifts we have

foundations play an important leadership role in our community.

been given and forget that each of us has something important to offer

Driven by new pressures, new tools, demands for social capital ac-

in creating solutions big and small.

countability, the moral hunger for more peer-to-peer philanthropy and

Philanthropy, volunteering and civic involvement are keys to creating

“generative thinking,” our local foundations are spearheading numerous

a town for all ages that is vibrant and always growing, and having pil-

projects to keep our community vibrant and strong.

grims of the future who understand the importance of philanthrocapital-

But before I get into these impactful projects, I am sure some of you

ism – how to give and save the world – is vital.

are wondering, what is social capital? There are many definitions, but for

Now back to the leadership roles of our local foundations. What are

this purpose, we will defer to John Brehm’s and W. Rahn’s: social capital

they doing to advance the health and well-being of local residents, and

is the web of cooperative relationships between citizens that facilitate

what plans do they have for opportunities and the challenges that will

resolution of collective action problems.

present themselves?

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“What is the use of living, if it not be to strive for noble causes and to make this muddled world a better place for those who will live in it after we are gone? ”

ing Partner, Roxie has also achieved outstanding results utilizing this tool

– Winston Churchill

done successfully in Columbus, Ohio. She turned the idea over to Susie

philanthropic choices, achieving outstanding results. Calling it The Givat the Community Foundation of Sarasota County.

The 36-Hour Giving Challenge is an initiative Roxie first saw being Bowie, Director of Nonprofit Strategy for SCF, who then lead the charge

Marilyn Howard – Executive Director, Manatee Community Foun-

by creating the infrastructure for all the community foundations to work

dation

together. With The Patterson Foundation matching support, it brought

Marilyn has been with the foundation since its conception, when it

in an incredible $2.4 million in donations through 10,700 transactions!

was started by a group of civic-minded citizens around her dining room

Roxie is fairly new to Sarasota, but her impact has been enormous with

table. The idea was first presented in 1993 by Dorothy S. (Dot) Ridings,

so many more wonderful things to come. The 2013 36-Hour Giving

a former publisher of The Bradenton Herald, then again in the fall of

Challenge is March 5th and 6th.

1995; however, it was not until June of 1998 that the steering committee

In the year 2000, The Community Foundation of Sarasota County to-

took steps to formalize the Foundation by incorporating and filing for

gether with the Herald Tribune Media Group created Season of Sharing,

tax-exemption status. Capitalizing on the administrative and investment

now a community-wide fundraising partnership helping needy individu-

services of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, the Manatee

als and families in Sarasota, Charlottte, Manatee and DeSoto counties.

Community Foundation was incorporated as a “supporting organization”

Roxie Jerde: “We are so proud to be in the 13th year of Season of Shar-

in 2006, making them the baby of the community foundation family. But

ing with media partners, last year raising $1.7 million with the matched

thanks to Marilyn’s lead, it is growing bigger and better each day.

support of The Patterson Foundation and helping families that are on

Marilyn Howard: “Foundations grow mostly from legacy and estate

the verge of homelessness. It is a way of keeping families together so

planned gifts, so obviously since we are a young foundation, many of these

they can survive and hopefully surmount their difficult circumstances.

gifts have not yet matured, which makes our work a bit more challenging.

I am also very proud to be in the 5th year of a literacy program (Lit-

But our goal in the larger sense is to build a charitable base for the

eracy Empowers All Families – LEAF) with other partners such as the

citizens of Manatee that will make us last for the long run. And by

Sarasota County Library System and Children First. It’s a sad statistic

building relationships with donors who will do that as time goes on,

to know that 31% of the children in Sarasota schools cannot read be-

we can positively deal with issues now and in the future.

yond the 3rd grade level, and with our African-American citizens, it’s

On the other hand, we work with nonprofits as much as possible, be-

60%. Because so many kids can’t read, their future life is stymied, so

cause if we don’t help them, we are doing a disservice to the donors.

by keeping families together and teaching them to read, we can help

So each day, working with nonprofits is also high on our priority list.

move families out of poverty now and impact future generations.

From the granting side, we are supporting lots of various causes for

We are also working to incorporate a uniform arts education program

advancing health and well-being and providing services to the needy

through Any Given Child, the Kennedy Center initiative, by funding

while following the lead of our generous donors. Our attitude is to not

the first year salary for school district coordinator.

just to give money away, but to make investments in good organiza-

Whatever we can do to support and improve the quality of life for the

tions with whatever monies we are stewarding.

citizens of Sarasota is our main goal. To make it possible for everyone

One program that highlights this is Spirit of Manatee, a Celebration of

to be a philanthropist, whether it is with a $5.00 donation to what-

Giving Awards held each February that acknowledges all the volun-

ever amount, and to encourage and enhance a multi-generational ap-

teers, young people and community organizations that are making a

proach is important.

difference. It was also a great opportunity for us to be part of The Giv-

Right now we are handling about 950 donor funds created from a pas-

ing Partners with the other community foundations and The Patterson

sion and our goal is to make sure their dreams are carried through while

Foundation. Working together for the best outcome is optimal!”

handling new needs that come with it. Building fund by fund, person by person, passion by passion, continuing to be responsive to community

“Remember that there is no happiness in having or in getting, but only in giving.

Reach out. Share. Smile. Hug. Happiness is a perfume you cannot pour on others without getting a few drops on yourself.”

– Og Mandino Roxie Jerde, President and CEO, Community Foundation of Sara-

needs, and fine-tuning the work we have always done, is how we are helping to continue Sarasota’s legacy of being so philanthropic.”

“To give away money is an easy matter in any man’s power. But to decide to whom to give it, and how large and when, and for what purpose and how, is neither in every man’s power nor an easy matter.”

– Aristotle

sota County Roxie came to Sarasota as the former Senior Vice President at the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation and is widely regarded as a

Teri Hansen, CEO, Gulf Coast Community Foundation

thought leader in the philanthropy world. While there, she spearheaded

Since 2002, Teri Hansen has led Gulf Coast Community Foundation

many innovative initiatives, including the development of an online tool

in transforming our region through bold and proactive philanthropy.

promoting nonprofit transparency that enables donors to evaluate their

Prior to coming here, Teri was Vice President of Gift Planning and Do-

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nor Relations at the Cleveland Foundation, the oldest community foun-

volunteers give to them so we can note the difference volunteerism is

dation in the country. Over the past decade, she has steered a much

giving back to the community.

younger community foundation—the largest in the state of Florida—into

VCC is here to help support the nonprofit’s needs by matching up

a regionally and nationally respected philanthropic leader. A key to that

skills and supporting their existing staff. We were the organizing group

evolution: engaging visionary donors in the foundation’s work. Created

for the local Make a Difference Day, when three million people gath-

in 1995 through the sale of the Venice Hospital, Gulf Coast has invested

ered across the country on the nation’s largest day of service, donat-

more than $145 million in grants in the areas of health and human ser-

ing food, cleaning up neighborhoods, parks and schools, helping the

vices, education, civic and economic development, arts and culture,

elderly and transporting supplies, which was wonderful.

and the environment. While that’s an amazing record, in Hansen’s mind,

Voluntary service is at the core of who we are as a country. It is in

the foundation’s work has only just begun.

our nature to help our neighbors in times of struggle to work together.

Teri Hansen: “At Gulf Coast, we are all about transformation and long-

Make A Difference Day was created to meet the needs of the most

term change. We look for systemic solutions and partner with donors

vulnerable among us and demonstrate the best of the American spirit,

who embrace this kind of work. For instance, we recently earmarked

celebrating the power of people to create change.

$150,000 to conduct a comprehensive regional hunger assessment with

At VCC, we spend a lot of time with potential volunteers, listening

All Faiths Food Bank and Feeding America. We will take the data from

to them and providing options so they can pursue their passion. Our

the study and work with our donors to find long-term solutions to the

goal is to encourage everyone to be involved in volunteerism and con-

hunger and nutrition issues for our community.

nect them with a nonprofit organization that touches their heart.”

We also recently made a grant of $250,000 to work on creating a program that provides health assistance for homeless children in the school system. Our work in the fields of hunger and homelessness are examples of philanthropy — investing in a solution.

Our board is very interested in using our resources for long-term solutions, while also giving immediate help. A few examples of how we are working to address immediate needs include GulfCoastGives.org, an on-

“I expect to pass through this world but once.

Any good therefore that I can do, or any kindness or abilities that I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now. Let me not defer it or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”

– Stephen Grellet

line marketplace where local nonprofits can package and sell their good works to citizen philanthropists. In our schools, we created an initiative called STEMsmart, which is transforming science and math education. To encourage civic engagement, we created the website You’d be Perfect for This, which matches community volunteers with nonprofit needs. And through Career Edge, we are helping local employers create and fill real jobs with skilled workers.

At this time, Gulf Coast handles over 550 charitable funds supporting many different causes. Our door is always open for other opportunities to help our community thrive.”

“If the Sun and Moon should ever doubt, they’d immediately go out.”

– William Blake

Debra Jacobs, President and CEO, The Patterson Foundation The Patterson Foundation was created in 1997 with an endowment of $2 million dollars and increased to $170 million dollars due to a bequest of Mrs. Patterson upon her death in 2007. Up until 2009, there wasn’t a working office, so it is even more impressive when you realize the impact the foundation has had on our community in such a short period of time. Led by Debra Jacobs, the former Executive Director of the Selby Foundation, this private foundation as Debra explains, is truly unique.

Debra Jacobs: “There is an official term “community foundation”, where the foundation works with donors as a conduit to fulfill their philanthropic wishes. Then there are private foundations, which are endowed by a donor and do not accept additional contributions. So while The Patterson Foundation is located in Sarasota, it is not a community foundation in the strict definition.

Mindi Rohan, Executive Director, Volunteer Community Connec-

The Patterson Foundation has an unrestricted charter providing flex-

tions

ibility, opportunity and responsibility to make a difference in ways

Mindi came to VCC just last year after serving as Director of Develop-

that others may not, cannot or will not do. Rather than having grant

ment for the Phelan-McDermid Syndrome Foundation and now heads

cycles or accepting proposals, we select partnerships where there

up one of the organizations that is benefiting from the You’d be Perfect

is leadership, willingness, capacity and culture to create new reali-

for This website for volunteer and charitable matches. VCC’s job is to

ties. We work locally and beyond, sharing our learning with both.

recruit and refer volunteers for 173 nonprofit organizations, train volun-

The Patterson Foundation provides value-add beyond a check with

teer managers to work with volunteers, recruit for the medical reserve,

each of our strategic initiatives with support in strategic communica-

manage spontaneous volunteer for disaster, and help youths and adults

tions, technology and business thrivability. The Patterson Foundation

find their purpose and passion. VCC is a great gift to our community,

is unique among private foundations.

asking nothing and yet giving so much back.

A few local examples of our work include:

Mindi Rohan: “Typically the nonprofits reach out to us, but we are

Healthcare Safety Net - Supporting a partnership between Sarasota

open to anyone – nonprofits or civic organizations. Even though we

Memorial Healthcare, Sarasota County Health Department and Se-

take responsibility for recruiting and training, there is no money ex-

nior Friendship Centers to more effectively align their systems so those

changed as our funding is provided by donors, the county and the

uninsured and under-insured receive appropriate health services.

state. All we require is that the organizations document the hours our

EdExplore – Supporting collaborative efforts between local cultural

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organizations and the Sarasota County School system so that students benefit from experiential learning via a 24/7 web-based platform providing “e-harmony” connectivity.

Institute for the Ages – Supporting this locally-based, nationally serving “do-tank” for positive aging.

Season of Sharing – Providing matching funds for new and increased donations for one-time assistance to prevent homelessness.

Collaborative Restructuring –

Provid-

ing independent facilitation for organizations interested in exploring better ways to achieve mission impact.”

Last but certainly not least, I would be remiss if I did not mention the Selby Foundation, so adeptly run by Dr. Sarah Pappas. Space limitations prohibit my adding another interview, but the importance of this Foundation in our community cannot be overlooked. According to the Foundation’s website, William and Marie Selby had down to earth attitudes and led a frugal lifestyle. They loved the natural environment and the lifestyle it enabled, which is why they created the Foundation in 1955. Today, the Selby Foundation focuses primarily on academic scholarships and grants for capital projects.

More than $94 million in grants and scholarships have been given to nearly 400 organizations and over one thousand students.

It is no exaggeration to say that we hold the future of the world in our hands as never before, or that our future can’t be imagined. We can create a future where hope and history rhyme.

We can inspire growth and change in a new generation of leaders by imagining what could be for our grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

You can start right now by imagining what the story others would tell when they looked at a photo of you one hundred years from now.

It’s never too late to create a legacy. As Charles Lamb said, “New Year’s Day is every man’s birthday.” The time couldn’t be better to imag-

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December 2012

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SOCIAL

MHCC Show of Shows On October 25, Mental Health Community Centers had its first ever fundraiser for its Sarasota campus, Prospect House. The evening at Michael’s on East included a silent auction, dinner and performances by the Sarasota Pops, Players Theatre of Sarasota, West Coast Tanqueros, and the West Coast Civic Ballet. Cliff Roles emceed the program and the live auction. Among those attending were Lee and David Peterson, Gerri Aaron and Marvin Albert, Judge Lee Hayworth, Helen & Roy McBean, and Sophia LaRusso. Mental Health Community Centers provides support services, including daily programs and activities, to adults with mental illness and Photos by Cliff Roles disabling emotional problems.

Rosemary Chase & Sophia LaRusso

Carolyn & Edward Eagen

Lee Peterson, Marlene Hauck & Bunny Coelingh

Felice Schulaner & Dennis Rees

Kay Keeby & Nicci Kobritz

S A V E the D A T E

AprilinParis A Celebration GalaforChildren First Saturday, April 20, 2013 Michael’s on East

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For more information, call (941) 953-3877 x138.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities available. www.childrenfirst.net scenesarasota.com

cene

LITERARY S

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

This month’s featured author is Cedar Key, Florida resident Terri DuLong whose latest novel is Postcards from Cedar Key (Kensington Books, trade paper, 288 pages, $15.00). This new book is the fourth installment of her New York Times bestselling Cedar Key Series, which combines friendship, island living, chocolates, and, of course, knitting!

In this book, Berkley Whitmore — the unmarried forty-something who runs a chocolate shop in Salem, Massachusetts — discovers a box of letters and postcards after her mother passes away. These led her to Cedar Key, an island in West Florida, where she meets the charming British writer Saxton Tate III. While there, she begins to unravel the truth about her mother and her estranged father. Through this search, the emptiness in her own life finally begins to fill.

What’s so compelling about DuLong’s writing is her depiction of strong female characters — it’s reminiscent of Kate Jacobs, Belva Plain, and Rona Jaffe in all the right ways. Part of the reason DuLong’s characters feel so truthful and real is because they’re sometimes based on composites of people she knows. And while all of her books deal with that wonderful homespun knitting community, she also tackles real topics, such as meningitis, date rape, and domestic abuse.

Something most people wouldn’t know about DuLong is that she’s a self-confessed “name collector.” She loves discovering different or quirky names for her characters. “In fact,” she admits, “some of the names for this book, including ‘Berkeley,’ were discovered during my speaking engagements or book signings. They’re the first name of some of my fans and readers!” So if you’ve got a great moniker yourself and you’d like to have it appear in a future Cedar Key book, hit up one of her readings and don’t forget to introduce yourself. She’s been offered another two-book contract from Kensington for the Cedar Key series, so she’ll be needing more character names fast! (Tell her Ryan sent you!)

Learn more about DuLong and the Cedar Key Series at www.TerriDuLong.com.

Before we get to our next author, let’s examine two powerful facts. Fact #1: 18% of Florida’s population is over 65. Fact #2: By 2030, there’ll be about 72 million older persons in the U.S., which is more than twice as many as in 2000.

Why bring these up? Because the next featured author is John R. Frazier, J.D., LL.M., whose second edition of Protecting Your Family’s Assets in Florida: How to Legally Use Medicaid to Pay for Nursing Home and Assisted Living Care (Rainbow Books, trade paper, 206 pages, $19.95) is now available. Let’s face it: Florida has a lot of elderly people who at some point will need care. But even if you can afford it, why pay $6,000 a month for private-pay costs at a nursing facility if you don’t have to? With the information in the new edition of this nuts-and-bolts book, you can learn how to effectively plan for an elderly family member’s future (even if it’s an immediate crisis).

There’s also a “plain English” glossary that clearly explains every term that’s relevant to Eldercare law and Medicaid for Floridians. While some readers might think they don’t need this, Frazier explains that “many people seem to believe that what they have heard about Medicaid planning from their family members, friends or financial planners in other states also applies to Florida.” Not so, he says. The rules are different in every state.

With a book like this and some guidance from an experienced Elder Law attorney, though, you’ll be prepared when it’s time to seek care for elderly family members. Among the topics covered in this new edition are: • the “power of attorney” in Florida • the role of geriatric care managers and how to select them • alternative housing choices • life care planning • Veterans benefits • how to select an assisted living facility or a nursing home • the psychological aspects of aging For more information about this book, please visit http://rainbowbooksinc.com. scenesarasota.com

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Classics Revisited This month’s classic book is Nicholas Carr’s 2010 book The Shallows: What the Internet Is Doing to Our Brains (W.W. Norton, hardcover, 278 pages, $26.95). If you’ve ever wondered about the most important trend in contemporary culture — the mental, emotional, and social effects of an omnipresent technological environment — this book is a must-read.

Here are just two of his many observations to ponder.

• We don’t constrain our mental powers when we store new long-term memories. We strengthen them. With each expansion of our memory comes an enlargement of our intelligence.

The Web provides a convenient and compelling supplement to personal memory — but when we start using the Web as a substitute for personal memory, by bypassing the inner processes of consolidation, we risk emptying our minds of their riches.

• What we’re experiencing is, in a metaphorical sense, a reversal of the early trajectory of civilization: We are evolving from cultivators of personal knowledge into hunters and gatherers in the electronic data forest. In the process, we seem fated to sacrifice much of what makes our minds so interesting.

Go ahead. Give The Shallows a shot. It’s one of the most readable “big concept” books out there, albeit one of the more disturbing ones, too.

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LOCALLY

NEWS SHAPING

OUR COMMUNITY NEW COLLEGE FOUNDATION NAMES BOARD CHAIR AND NEW TRUSTEES

New College Foundation, Inc. announced that Felice Schulaner has been

CHILDREN FIRST RECEIVES GRANT FROM THE ROBERTA LEVENTHAL SUDAKOFF FOUNDATION Children First received a grant of $42,500 from the Roberta Leventhal

made Chair of its Board of Directors. Schulaner, who has served on the

Sudakoff Foundation. This funding will be used to upgrade and refurbish the

Foundation Board since 2007, took over from Howard Isermann during the

playgrounds at Children First’s Helen R. Payne Center, Helen Payne Annex,

Foundation’s recent annual meeting. A New College alumna, Schulaner also

and Head Start and Early Head Start program sites. This funding will provide

serves on the New College of Florida Board of Trustees. She currently is a

much needed updates for playground areas where children spend at least

consultant to the Coach Foundation Inc. and was Coach Inc.’s Senior Vice

20% of their day. 941.953.3877 ext. 124 | childrenfirst.net

President of Human Resources for eight years before retiring to Sarasota.

Other Officers elected were 1st Vice Chair/Treasurer Patrick Hennigan, 2nd Vice Chair Christine Jennings, and Secretary Tom White, a New College alumnus. Two new Directors were also elected—G. Lowe Morrison and John Bean. Brad Baker is now serving on the New College Board of Trustees.

941.487.5000 | ncf.edu/foundation

DOCTORS HOSPITAL NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED AMONG BEST PLACES TO WORK IN HEALTHCARE For the fourth year in a row, Doctors Hospital of Sarasota has been named one of the Best Places to Work in Healthcare by Modern Healthcare Magazine.

This year, Doctors Hospital was the highest ranking healthcare provider in the state of Florida. According to Modern Healthcare Magazine, the Best

SELBY FOUNDATION AWARDS OVER $900,000 IN GRANTS

Places to Work in Healthcare program recognizes outstanding employers in

The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation selected 20 local nonprofit

at their optimal level to provide patients and customers with the best possible

organizations to receive a total of $935,309 in capital grants this season. Most

care and services. 941.342.1012 | doctorsofsarasota.com

the healthcare industry on a national level for enabling employees to perform

of the funding will be used to upgrade technology or improve infrastructure, important enhancements that are often difficult to secure funding for since they don’t always relate directly to a certain program or service. The 20 recipient organizations represent the entire range of Selby Foundation grant-making interests: arts & culture, education, community and human services. selbyfdn.org

SARASOTA MEMORIAL HOSPITAL WINS REGION’S CONSUMER CHOICE AWARD

MANATEE COUNTY TO PROCEED WITH EXPANDING ROBINSON PRESERVE AT NO COST TO LOCAL TAXPAYERS Manatee County’s favorite location for bird watching, hiking and photography, Robinson Preserve, is to grow by 150 acres without costing local taxpayers a dime under an agreement unanimously approved by County Commissioners.

Manatee County Commissioners unanimously entered an agreement with the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast Tuesday that will one day

For the 15th consecutive year, Sarasota Memorial Health Care System was

expand Robinson by 150 acres with enhanced educational, recreational and

named the first choice for health care in the region, earning a Consumer

environmental benefits such as additional wetland and upland restoration,

Choice Award for the Sarasota-Bradenton-Venice metropolitan area from

construction of an environmental center, trails, boardwalks, pedestrian bridges,

the National Research Corporation. The award for 2012-2013 identifies

a playground and more. The agreement also allows the Robinson family to retain

hospitals that health care consumers have chosen as having the best quality,

50 acres on which they could build up to 50 units under the current zoning and

best doctors/nurses and image ratings in more than 300 markets throughout

residential density for the property. 941.748.4501 | mymanatee.org

the nation. Of the 3,200 hospitals named by consumers in the study, the winning facilities rank highest in their Core Based Statistical Areas (CBSAs), as defined by the US Census Bureau. 941.917.9000 | smh.com

THE HARRY SUDAKOFF FOUNDATION GRANTS $71,710 FOR INTRA-CARDIAC ECHOCARIOGRAPHY SYSTEM

SARASOTA PUBLIC ART FUND MEETS CAMPAIGN GOAL OF $550,000 TO PURCHASE “COMPLEXUS” SCULPTURE Tom Savage, president of the Sarasota Public Art Fund, announced that the organization had reached its goal of $550,000 to purchase “Complexus,” a monumental work by the Tennessee-based sculptor John Henry. The 70-foot tall, bold and bright red steel sculpture, located at the corner of U.S. 41 and

A dedication ceremony was recently held for an Intra-Cardiac Echocardiography

Gulfstream Avenue in downtown Sarasota, was the star of the show at the 2011-

System (ICE) in Sarasota Memorial Hospital’s Roberta Leventhal Sudakoff Cardiac

2012 Season of Sculpture’s outdoor sculpture exhibition. Savage said the original

Catheterization Suite. The ICE system was funded by a $71,710 grant to Sarasota

price tag for “Complexus” was $850,000 but Henry agreed to a significant price

Memorial Healthcare Foundation, Inc. from The Harry Sudakoff Foundation.

reduction in light of the nature of the acquisition. The sculpture will be gifted to

The ICE system provides the physician with clear images of the inside of the

the city of Sarasota as a permanent part of its art collection at a public ceremony

heart while performing a catheterization procedure. 941.917.1286 | smhf.org

in January 2013. sarasotaseasonofsculpture.org

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Tomorrow’s medical care, today.

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