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Fine Painting and Sculpture dabbertgallery.com 941-955-1315
Stroll Historic Palm Avenue and shop with some of Sarasota’s finest collection of merchants. Discover exceptional fine jewelry, fine art galleries, rare oriental carpets, exquisite home accessories and much more. Palm Avenue’s First Friday Walks are from 6 till 9 pm. Enjoy shopping, dining and live performances. w w w . P a l m A v e n u e . o r g
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Galleria Silecchia
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Preparing for the future? Let’s have that conversation. Planning your family’s future is too important to treat lightly. That’s why you should evaluate a Financial Advisor based on what they can do for their clients. The guidance they provide, the insight they’re equipped with, the level of service and excellence they offer. Contact The Bellwether Group at Morgan Stanley and find out how we can help you prepare for the years ahead.
The Bellwether Group at Morgan Stanley Two North Tamiami Trail, Suite 1100 Sarasota, FL 34236 941-363-8514 rochelle.nigri@morganstanley.com www.morganstanleyfa.com/ bellwethergroup Left to right: Kathy Francoletti CTFA,® Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor; Richard T. Williams III CFA,® Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor; Scott L. Rockwell, Vice President, Financial Advisor; Aimee Cogan CFP® CIMA®, Managing Director-Wealth Management, Family Wealth Director, Wealth Advisor Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP,® CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the US. Investment Management Consultants Association, Inc. owns the marks CIMA,® Certified Investment Management AnalystSM (with graph element),® and Certified Investment Management Analyst.SM © 2015 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 1176138 04/15 WMC001
Established 1976
Philanthropy December 2015
Volume 58 No. 12
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57 SOUNDS OF OUR FUTURE State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota By Sue Cullen
62 LEADING THE WAY
80 THE LARGEST CIRCUS MODEL IN THE WORLD Howard Tibbals and the Tibbals Learning Center at The Ringling By Ryan G. Van Cleave
Mark Pritchard, Gulf Coast Community Foundation By Ryan G. Van Cleave
64 PASSIONATE BUSINESS
85 INSPIRED TO CHANGE LIVES Dr. Elaine Marieb By Jake Hartvigsen
Jonna Keller, First Security Investments
88 STAR POWER
By Sue Cullen
70 HUMAN TRAFFICKING HITS CLOSE TO HOME
Mary Bensel and Monica Van Buskirk By Ryan G. Van Cleave
Selah Freedom
92 HEALTHY VALUES
By Sue Cullen
Jim and Alice Padilla
72 FACES OF LOVE By Elizabeth Brissette, Colleen Fortier, Chloe Jing and Sogn Zamrzla
By Steven J. Smith
94 PASSIONATE GIVING Zuheir and Susan Sofia By Steven, J. Smith
cover
Isaac Mingus, cellist, Presidential Quartet, SCF Manatee-Sarasota. Photography by Lori Sax.
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ONLY 2 REMAINING | COMPLETION SUMMER 2016
Visit the AQUA design center now to reserve one of the remaining residences. Priced from $3,195,000. REPRESENTED BY Joel Schemmel | 941.587.4894 Cheryl Loeffler | 941.302.9674 Premier Sotheby’s International Realty The Plaza at Five Points, 50 Central Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34236
aqua280.com
Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various sources including but not limited to county records and the multiple listing service, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate. Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating the representations of the developer. For correct representations, reference should be made to the documents required by section 718.503, Florida statutes, to be furnished by a developer to a buyer or lessee. The information provided, including pricing, square footage, features and specifications is solely for informational purposes, and is subject to change without notice.
DEPARTMENTS
96
49
102
32 EVENTS CALENDAR 41 PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR SOCIALS 24 Women on the SCENE Launch Party 28 USF Sarasota-Manatee Brunch on the Bay 44 Ringling College Golf Tournament 48 Callaghan Tire Charity Pro-Am
By Ryan G. Van Cleave
104 BEHIND THE SCENE Sarasota’s Society Maven Gives the Latest Scoop By Debbi Benedict
Daily Therapy
111 LITERARY SCENE
96 SCENES FROM AN INTERVIEW Margaret Barbieri By Gus Mollasis
SCENE
The Manatee Players and Manatee Performing Arts Center
49 DESIGN By Jacqueline Miller
12
102 EDUCATION
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December 2015
By Ryan G. Van Cleave
114 REWIND A Look Back Through SCENE's Archives
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ENVISION
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TM
the information contained on this ad is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. Please contact your professional financial advisor with any specific questions.
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FROM THE EXECUTIVE EDITOR
I
n 2008, SCENE launched what was soon to become the most popular social column in our town – Behind the SCENE with Debbi
Benedict. Debbi reminds me that it took a bit of time for her to find her voice, but when she did a few months into it, SCENE readers (or poodles as Debbi would say) begged for more and they got it – nearly 100 entertaining and informative monthly columns from then until today. People wanting to be mentioned, companies wanting recognition, organizations clamoring
Michelle Crabtree Broker Associate, realtor® CLHMS, CRS, CIPS, GRI, ABR, GREEN
to be highlighted, all reaching out to Debbi with hopes of being the “ones” included in her column. And then of course there are her much anticipated opinions – oftentimes hysterical, insightful, thought-provoking, and dare I say on rare occasions a tad controversial. Well as with everything in life, all good things must come to an end. Debbi is hanging up her pearls, St. John suits, and Ferragamos to devote her time and talents to further
A third generation local and Broker Sales Associate since 1982, Michelle is dedicated to serving your needs in Sarasota, Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch.
developing her pioneer spirit – homesteading – a lifestyle of self-sufficiency. Debbi has a garden that we can all live off of if our food supply gets cut off (just kidding, it’s not that big!), enjoys canning, and many other aspects of being an urban homesteader. Not sure we are ever going to see her wearing a bee-keepers suit to harvest her own honey or go out in the wilderness to hunt wild game, but she may prove me wrong!
• 2015 Five-Star Real Estate Agent “Best in Client Satisfaction” – 8 years • 2015 Florida Realtor Honor Society – 8 years • Women’s Council of Realtors 2013 “Entrepreneur of the Year” & 2009 “Business Woman of the Year” • 2013 & 2007 SAR “Meritorious Service Award” • 2010 Director, Sarasota Association of Realtors (SAR) - 3 year term • 2008 WCR Sarasota Chapter President • 2005 WCR Sarasota “realtor® of the Year”
c 941.724.4663
One thing is for sure. Debbi’s voice will be back soon, whether it be through a homesteading blog, landing a column in Mother Earth, or sitting down with Oprah. I suspect she won’t call her readers poodles, but you’ll just have to follow Debbi to find out. On behalf of everyone at SCENE Magazine, we thank Debbi for her many years of superb work, devotion, and support. Next month, SCENE will launch The Buzz Around Town by community supporter, doer, and shaker, Suzette Jones. Suzette is definitely a gal about town who can share interesting insights with her own unique voice. She loves this community and has most recently devoted her efforts to helping local businesses connect and thrive through her company, The Economic Buzz, which includes a digital publication highlighting business leaders, and a business expo designed to showcase and connect businesses of all sizes and sectors with each other, with investors, mentors, and talent. We are excited to have Suzette on board! This issue covering philanthropy highlights many people whose contributions have impacted our community as well as organizations and foundations providing services that are also vital to our success as a people. I hope these stories encourage you to get more involved because only through our collective voices and support will we continue to thrive. As for me, I’ll be back next month. In the next few weeks I will be making merry like most other people and enjoying the holidays. But let’s never lose sight of those less fortunate. I hope you’ll put on your gift list to do something special for someone in need. From all of us at SCENE, we wish you and your loved ones a very happy holiday season and a healthy and prosperous new year! See you in 2016!
michelle.crabtree@sothebysrealty.com
www.crabtreehomes.com Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.
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julie@scenesarasota.com
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Some day,
he’ll be courage.
Some day, this cute, cuddly—and not just a little bit crazy—10-week-old will be the difference between a life half lived, and one fully engaged. But it’s not easy. It takes two years, thousands of dollars, and hundreds of volunteer hours to turn raw potential into polished performance. And it’s all possible because of people just like you.
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5731 Bee Ridge Road at Cattlemen Road, Sarasota DoctorsOfSarasota.com | 1.888.685.1596
Locally Owned, Operated & Printed Since 1957 CEO/President
Ronald Milton
Publisher & Executive Editor
Julie A. Milton
Vice President Sales Art Director Special Issue Coordinator Distribution Contributing Writers
Steve Slocum Michelle Cross Debbi Benedict Dick Jackson Debbi Benedict Sue Cullen Gus Mollasis Steven J. Smith Ryan G. Van Cleave
Photographers
Nancy Guth Daniel Perales Enrique Pino John Revisky Jessica Tasetano
Address
5939 Approach Road, Sarasota, FL 34238
Phone
Now Offering Vegas Style Games!
Fax Website
941-365-1119 941-954-5067 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.
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With food this good, we know you’ll be back.
Join us at our relaxing and fun bar, meet new friends, people watch, and experience an eclectic continental mix of mouthwatering food reminiscent of old world traditions prepared, presented and served with modern excellence.
Where old world traditions meets modern excellence LUNCH | DINNER | DRINKS | AL FRESCO DINING 941.388.4415 | 431 St. Armands Circle cafeleurope.net | Reservations Recommended
PNC WEALTH MANAGEMENT®
A Partner in Philanthropy Being a good corporate citizen is a key value for PNC Wealth Management just as making a positive impact on the community through personal philanthropy is an important part of its clients’ lives. Having a community-focused perspective along with a holistic, team-based approach to service creates the opportunity to help clients meet financial needs while giving substantial support to cherished causes. “Philanthropy begins in the heart of people who give of their time, their talent, and/or their treasure,” according to Jeff Boyd, PNC Wealth Management’s senior vice president and wealth director. “PNC’s approach to charitable giving starts in the hearts of our clients and our employees who live and work in this community. We share our clients’ passion for many of the great causes in the Sarasota/ Manatee region and help them create their financial legacy, by contributing our own dollars in support of several of the same causes, and by rolling up our sleeves and donating our time.” When you see PNC sponsoring local events, not only is it because a client or PNC employee is involved with that group, but because PNC has made a commitment to Sarasota. While many companies have abandoned or
severely cut back on this practice, PNC regards it as a cornerstone to being a good corporate citizen. PNC has a long history of partnering with local organizations that strengthen and enrich the lives of the communities where it operates. So much so, it established the PNC Foundation in 1969 to support nonprofit organizations that serve people in those communities. The bank management understands that through local charitable support, it can help to broaden opportunities for social, cultural and economic mobility while building a solid foundation for the future of this region. Certainly, philanthropy is the right thing for an engaged company like PNC to do because it supports the people who are the most important to them: its clients, friends and employees, but it’s also smart business. “When we support local causes, we’re helping to cultivate a thriving business and arts community by emphasizing the importance of educational success, developing healthy neighborhoods, and building a strong workforce for the next generation of business leaders,” Boyd said. From donating high-end collectibles to the local mu-
seum to establishing a wing at a Sarasota hospital, families sometimes are unclear about how much of their wealth may comfortably be devoted to charitable giving. Two common fears can prevent them from achieving their philanthropic goals. “The fear of giving away too much and running out of money during their lifetimes is one issue,” said Aaron Thiel, PNC senior wealth planner. “Approval is another as parents may also be afraid their children will not agree with their decision to donate money instead of leaving them a larger inheritance. Like most fears, their perception is not always reality.” PNC Wealth Management professionals gain an indepth understanding of clients’ individual circumstances to help families understand what is required to maintain their desired lifestyles and plan for future care or to fund specific needs, such as education for children or grandchildren. “As a result, clients become more comfortable about what they can give,” Boyd said, “which many times can provide them the opportunity to make a more impactful, transformational gift. Our goal is to help our clients fully understand what they are able to do and then work together to help them make impactful gifts if they so choose.” Thorough planning that incorporates all aspects of a client’s financial and personal situation is required, which is the rationale behind PNC Wealth Management’s team approach to the client experience. Each client has a team comprised of a relationship strategist, wealth strategist, private banking advisor, investment advisor and trust advisor focused on developing customized solutions. “Although investment advising is a large part of what we do for clients, we also focus on estate, tax, and charitable planning,” Boyd said. “As time goes on, wealth planning and trust services may become more important to the family. It’s a very holistic approach and is why we build a team with a wide variety of experience around our clients.”
The conversation will typically extend beyond the client’s current financial picture as the team helps to facilitate a healthy dialogue about charitable giving and other issues across generations. “We pull together family members to have a conversation about our clients’ philanthropy, so their values can be passed to the next generation,” Thiel said. “That way the children understand the causes that are important to the family and how they can contribute to those causes.” Individual preferences also are considered. “Some families want to benefit organizations in their lifetimes. Others would rather make legacy gifts through their estate plan,” said Thiel, who is also the current chair of the Estate Planning and Probate Section of the Sarasota Bar Association. “We help clients craft a mission for their philanthropic giving, which can be clearly articulated by the whole family, and then working alongside their attorneys, come up with strategies to optimize any option. At the same time, if we can help reduce future tax liability, it’s a win-win for everyone.” Volunteerism and philanthropy are a central part of PNC Wealth Management’s culture. PNC makes a strong attempt to align its support of many local organizations with the same causes supported by its clientele. Team members also are active in leadership roles with local nonprofits and in volunteering their time in other ways, such as working with young children in protective services. PNC also has earmarked $350 million to support early childhood education through its corporate Grow Up Great program. “Giving is something personal and while there are tax benefits, it needs to be something a person is passionate about,” Boyd said. “If we can help clients blend their passion and their purse, it truly is a perfect situation and is one reason why having a partner like PNC Wealth Management can help them achieve more than they thought possible.”
Credit and collateral subject to approval. 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 marketing names PNC Wealth Management® and Hawthorn, PNC Family Wealth® to provide investment, wealth management, and fiduciary services through its subsidiary, PNC Bank, National Association (“PNC Bank”), which is a Member FDIC, and to provide specific fiduciary and agency services through its subsidiary, PNC Delaware Trust Company. PNC also uses the marketing names PNC Institutional Asset ManagementSM, PNC Retirement SolutionsSM, Vested Interest®, and PNC Institutional Advisory SolutionsSM for the various discretionary and non-discretionary institutional investment activities conducted through PNC Bank and through PNC’s subsidiary PNC Capital Advisors, LLC, a registered investment adviser (“PNC Capital Advisors”). Standalone custody, escrow, and directed trustee services; FDIC-insured banking products and services; and lending of funds are also provided through PNC Bank. Securities products, brokerage services, and managed account advisory services are offered by PNC Investments LLC, a registered broker-dealer and a registered investment adviser and member of FINRA and SIPC. Insurance products may be provided through PNC Insurance Services, LLC, a licensed insurance agency affiliate of PNC, or through licensed insurance agencies that are not affiliated with PNC; in either case a licensed insurance affiliate may 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 unless, with respect to tax advice, PNC Bank has entered into a written tax services agreement. PNC does not provide services in any jurisdiction in which it is not authorized to conduct business. PNC Bank is not registered as a municipal advisor under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (“Act”). Investment management and related products and services provided to a “municipal entity” or “obligated person” regarding “proceeds of municipal securities” (as such terms are defined in the Act) will be provided by PNC Capital Advisors. “PNC Wealth Management,” “Hawthorn, PNC Family Wealth,” and “Vested Interest” are registered trademarks and “PNC Institutional Asset Management,” “PNC Retirement Solutions,” and “PNC Institutional Advisory Solutions” are service marks 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. Not a Deposit. May Lose Value.
1549 Ringling Blvd, Third Floor
Sarasota, FL 36236
941.363.5060
PNC.com/WealthManagement
Social Women on the SCENE Launch Party SCENE Magazine launched its triennial issue, Women on the SCENE III, a special publication highlighting local entrepreneurs, professionals, executives and philanthropists, with a fabulous party hosted by SCENE publishers, Ron and Julie Milton, and attended by nearly 100 people at Cafe L’Europe on St. Armands. Attendees enjoyed meeting, networking, the delicious food, and music by piano player Rob Satori. To view Women on the SCENE, visit www.scenesarasota.com, and click Special Issues.
Photos by Nancy Guth
Heidi Brown & Anne Garlington
Joan Morgan & Tatiana Twarowski
Jennifer Rust & Jennifer McClain
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Estelle Crawford
Aimee Cogan, Janet Walter & Chris Voelker
Carolyn Johnson, Jennifer Mumford & Isabel Norton
Denise Mei, Elizabeth Haynes & Michelle Crabtree
Dr. Sandra Stone, Dr. Carol Probstfeld & Elizabeth Lindsay
Mary King & Nelda Thompson
Linda Apple
Janelle Esposito & Lynette Revill
Some jewelry displayed patented (US Pat. No. 7,007,507) • © 2015 Pandora Jewelry, LLC • All rights reserved • PANDORA.NET
GIVE MORE THAN A GIFT GIVE PERSONALITY ON A SILVER BANGLE. EXPRESSION REFLECTED IN THE FACETS OF A RUBY RED CRYSTAL. A PRESENT WAITING TO BE OPENED. SHARE THE #ARTOFYOU THE GIFT: HAND-ENAMELED GIFT CHARM WITH PAVÉ BOW ON .925 STERLING SILVER BANGLE
THE MALL AT UNIVERSITY TOWN CENTER CENTER COURT • 941.893.3948 TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR BEAUTIFUL GIFT WRAPPING SERVICE. IT IS OUR WAY TO THANK YOU FOR VISITING OUR STORE.
Dream Weaver Collection, one of St. Armands Circle’s longest-tenured businesses, has a sleek, sophisticated, new look! Stop in and browse the cosmopolitan and contemporary wearable art collections from unique American and European designers that range from casual daywear to glamorous evening wear. Featuring:
Sarah Pacini | Annette Görtz Mashiah | Ivan Grundahl “I select designers whose fashions are flattering to the body and make a statement! Dream Weaver is the only store in Southwest Florida to carry these lines. We’re adding even more European collections, so I hope you’ll come by and take a look.” – Joan Morgan, Owner
364 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota 941-388-1974 | dreamweavercollection.com FIND US ON FACEBOOK
Social USF Brunch on the Bay This much-anticipated annual event, a premier fundraiser for USF Sarasota-Manatee, celebrated its 22nd year, drew close to 1,000 attendees, and generated more than $370,000 in college scholarships, the most ever for the event. Guests enjoyed cuisine from 20 of the area’s finest restaurants and caterers. Joining Regional Chancellor Dr. Sandra Stone and USF System President Dr. Judy Genshaft, dignitaries presented certificates to honor USFSM and its 40-year history serving Southwest Florida.
Photos by Nancy Guth
Dr. Anila Jain, Dr. Sandra Stone & Tracy O’Neill
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You can’t spell ‘school’ without C-O-O-L Saint Stephen’s is the only area school with direct access to coastal waterways and a dedicated marine science facility where we teach One Ocean, a custom-designed Pre-K3 through grade 12 curriculum. Now that’s cool!
Dive in and explore at www.saintstephens.org/marinescience
Saint Stephen’s is an independent, college-preparatory school providing a world-class education for students in grades Pre-K3 to12. Schedule a tour today. 315 41st St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209 | (941) 746-2121 | www.saintstephens.org
Private Wealth Insights the company’s 53 year history. Today, the company serves about 3 million client accounts with about $500 billion in assets under management. “With our approach to financial planning, we help clients gain confidence through education, which allows them to focus on more important things in life, by making sure their money works as hard for them as they do for it,”
B
Lowe says. “It is important for us to educate our clients so they better understand that temporary pullbacks are the price of permanent gains acked by the resources and stability of one of the
in the market. Sometimes our biggest challenge is to protect
nation’s largest independent financial services
our clients from themselves when they want to make an emotional
firms, Raymond James Branch Manager and Finan-
decision that could have a devastating financial impact on their
cial Advisor Joshua Lowe helps clients achieve their retirement
long term plan.” He believes that markets rarely repeat, but some-
dreams with highly personalized care through his white glove
times they rhyme and by studying the past, it allows them to better
service approach. “For us, we place a high priority on family,
prepare their clients for the future.
and treat our clients as an extension of that family,” Lowe says.
Another key value for Lowe is community involvement. He
Specializing in working with affluent clients who are currently
and his wife have been residents of Lakewood Ranch for 18 years,
in or nearing retirement, he works to design investment portfolios
while maintaining an office and conducting business there for the
to meet their individual needs. With a wide range of investment
last 10 years. Lowe believes in giving back to the community that
services, Lowe listens to understand a client’s needs better before
has given him and his family so much, by supporting charitable
developing a customized financial plan specifically addressed to
foundations such as Make-A-Wish, Sarasota Memorial Health
meet those needs. Having majored in education and graduating
Care Foundation, Sarasota Opera, Toys For Tots, Big Brothers
Cum Laude at Auburn University, he calls on his love for teaching
Big Sisters, Ringling College, and Sarasota Humane Society. For
to help ensure clients truly understand what he recommends for
more information about Joshua Lowe and Raymond James, call
them and why. Lowe often hosts educational events on topics of
941-914-9440 or visit www.RaymondJames.com/JoshuaLowe.
interest to clients, such as identity theft, long term care, social security, and market updates. As an 18 year veteran of the financial services industry, Lowe has worked with some of the largest firms in the business and has learned that bigger is not always better. He believes Raymond James’s core values, professional integrity and a conservative long term approach to financial planning, has proven itself throughout Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC Cornerstone Capital is an Independent Firm
8470 Enterprise Circle, Suite 102 | Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 | 941-914-9440 | www.RaymondJames.com/JoshuaLowe
December Calendar
For a complete listing of community events please visit scenesarasota.com Photo by John Revisky
Sarasota Orchestra’s Conductor Dinner Series: Dinner 2 December 3 University Park Country Club 6:00 pm. Featuring Masterworks 2 conductor Perry So and soloist Leila Josefowicz. Tickets: $150 | 941.487.2737 | sarasotaorchestra.org
6th Annual Sarasota Craft Show December 4 – 6 Robarts Arena. Juried show featuring works in clay, wood, glass, fiber, mixed media, jewelry, sculpture, photography, and painting by over 100 of the nation’s top craft and fine artists. Tickets: $6 - $11 | 845.355.2400 | sarasotacraftshow.com
Florida Center’s 28th Annual Festival of Trees December 4 Michael’s On East 6:30 pm. Be whisked away to Winter Nights & Northern Lights featuring cocktails, live music and entertainment, dancing, auctions, and dinner. Tickets: $175 | 941.371.8820 x1025 | thefloridacenter.org
Women’s Resource Center Of Manatee Déjà Blues December 4 The Brickyard, Downtown Bradenton 7:00 pm. Enjoy dinner, cocktails and live entertainment. Tickets: $150 | 941.747.6797 | wrcmanatee.org
Bradenton Blues Festival December 5 Riverwalk overlooking the Manatee River 10:00 am. Featuring a team of top blues artists. Enjoy food, drinks, art, vendors, and live music. Tickets: $10 - $40 | BradentonBluesFestival.org
Olde Englewood Village Winter Fine Arts Festival December 5 – 6 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood 10:00 am. Enjoy live music, unique shops, and great restaurants. oldeenglewood.com
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December 2015
ONE LIFESTYLE. ONE CHOICE. ONE PALM.
RESERVE YOUR HOME TODAY AT WWW.ONEPALMSARASOTA.COM | 941-234-4063
Production Media Sponsor
Choreography by Matthew Hart Designs by Peter Docherty
The Sarasota Ballet Box Office
941.359.0099
18 - 19 DECEMBER 2015
VAN WEZEL PERFORMING ARTS HALL
www.Sarasotaballet.org
Palm Ball THE
c o n n e c t. r e F l e c t. P r o t e c t.
S at u r d ay F e b r u a r y 6 , 2 0 1 6 PleaSe join uS For a n e l e g a n t e v e n i n g u n d e r t h e S ta r S at b ay P r e S e r v e o n l i t t l e S a r a S o ta b ay. h e l P S av e o u r c h e r i S h e d n at u r a l l a n d S , F o r e v e r . ProceedS beneFit critical land c o n S e r vat i o n i n i t i at i v e S .
n o w a c c E p T i n g Ta b l E a n d T i c k E T s p o n s o r s H i p s f o r T H i s E x c l u s i v E E v E n T.
941 .91 8 .21 00 | www.cons e rva t i onfound a t i on.com
Humane Society of Sarasota County’s Hot Dogs & Cool Cats December 5 The Ritz-Carlton 6:00 pm. Hosted by Les McCurdy and Ken Sons, includes a champagne reception, dinner, open bar, valet parking and hilarious entertainment. Tickets: $250 | 941.955.4131 x103 | hssc.org
FSU College of Medicine Jazz Brunch On The Bay December 6 Ca’ d’Zan at the Ringling Museum 11:30 am. Supports the Sarasota Regional Campus. 941. 316.8120 | med.fsu.edu
Jewish Federation’s Women’s Day December 7 Michael’s On East 11:30 am. Featuring special guest, actress Marlee Matlin. Tickets $75 | 941.343.2115| jfedsrq.org
La Musica Sonata a Due December 7 Michael’s On East Ballroom 6:00 pm. An elegant evening to open the season for La Musica with cocktails, recital,
PARIS 1936. ONE WOMAN MESMERIZED THE WORLD. Broadway-Bound World Premiere April 27-May 29, 2016 AsoloRep.org
and dinner. Tickets: $150 guests; $250 patrons | 941.371.6798 | lamusicafestival.org
Asolo Rep’s Starry Night Dinner: Living On Love December 7 The Home of Larry and Deb Kabinoff on Siesta Key 6:30 pm. Highlights the production of Living on Love. Tickets: $250 | 941.351.9010 x4702 | asolorep.org
Venice Lights of Friendship December 9 Venice Friendship Center 6:00 pm. Celebrating a tribute to longtime Venice physician and volunteer, Dr. Richard Beebe and the people whose lives have been touched by the Friendship Centers’ services. Tickets: $100 | 941.556.3205 | friendshipcenters.org
The Child Protection Center’s Men, Whiskey, & Watches December 10 Edson Keith Phillippi Mansion 4:00 pm. Enjoy music, beverages, men’s fashions and accessories, cigars, and whiskey sampling. Tickets: $150 | 941-365-1277 | cpcsarasota.org
Make-A-Wish Foundation’s Christmas In Candy Land December 12 Michael’s On East Ballroom 11:00 am. Walk down Candy Cane Lane to meet Santa, paint your face like an elf, decorate cookies and gingerbread houses, and feed your Yuletide appetite. Benefits Make-A-Wish Foundation. Adults: $75 – Kids: $50 | 941.952.9474 | wishcentralfl.wish.org
JFCS Gala – Reflections of a Caring Community December 13 The Ritz-Carlton 5:00 pm. Celebrating 30 years with a caring community, featuring the Sarasota Orchestra. Tickets: $500 | 941.366.2224 x142 | jfcs-cares.org Deborah Cox as Josephine Baker. Photo by Mike Ruiz. © Deco Recording Group, LLC.
Sarasota Ballet’s Holiday Showcase Luncheon December 14 Michael’s On East 11:30 am. Featuring a 25th anni-
ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE Sponsored by
versary presentation honoring past presidents of the friends of the Sarasota Ballet. Tickets: $45 | 941.923.0298 | sarasotaballet.org December 2015
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Embracing Our Differences Annual Luncheon
Sarasota Opera Gala
December 15 Michael’s On East 11:30 am. Luncheon and a
January 23 The Ritz-Carlton 6:30 pm. Celebrating the start of the
brief program about Embracing Our Differences and its im-
Verdi Cycle’s final season. Includes a cocktail hour, a delectable
pact on our community. Tickets: $50 | 941. 404.5710 | em-
four-course dinner, and a special performance by the Opera’s
bracingourdifferences.org
Principal Artists. Tickets: $295 | 941.366.8450 | sarasotaopera.org
Upcoming Events
Circus Arts Gala Under the Big Top
Perlman Celebration Concert & Event Under The Tent
January 29 Big Top – SE Corner of University Town Center
January 2 Sarasota Opera House 5:00 pm. Join Itzhak Perl-
Mall 6:30 pm. Celebrate 2015 NEA National Heritage fellow
man with PMP students and faculty for an evening of inspired
and CAC co-founder Dolly Jacobs in a night of fabulous food
music. Tickets: $40 - $80 / 941.328.1300; Gala Tickets: $625 /
and entertainment. 941.355.9335 | circusarts.org
941.350.2338 | perlmanmusicprogramsuncoast.org
Designing Daughters Dining For A Difference
5th Annual Taylor Emmons Scholarship Fund Charity Golf & Poker Night
January 12 Dine out for a great cause with locally owned Sara-
January 30 Lakewood Ranch Country Club 10:30 am. Box
sota/Manatee restaurants. A portion of all proceeds will help
lunch and registration. Noon tee off (Shotgun). $200 indi-
fund grants to local charities. For list of participating restaurants
vidual player. Buffet dinner provided to golfers. Poker Night
go to: DesigningDaugtersSarasota.com | Dining4Difference@
starts at 6:00 pm with buffet dinner at LWRCC. Tickets: $125
gmail.com | 941.504.4288
per player/$50 non-player | 941.915.9249 | temmons.org
SMHF’s 4th Annual Women & Medicine Luncheon
Catholic Charities Ball
January 15 The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota 11:30 am. Featuring a
January 30 The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota 6:00 pm. Proceeds
lively, interactive panel discussion with three Sarasota Memori-
benefit Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, in Sara-
al Hospital physicians discussing trends in oncology care. Tick-
sota and Manatee. Tickets: $300 | 941.355.4680 x305 |
ets: $100 | 941.917.1286 | smhf.org
catholiccharitiesdov.org
2033 Vamo Way, Sarasota RoesslersRestaurant.com 941-966-5688
Traditional Continental Cuisine. Award Winning Wine List. Awarded One of Sarasota’s Most Romantic Restaurant. Casual Bistro Dining Available. Elegant Grounds for Special Occasions. Dinner Tuesday – Sunday 5pm 36
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December 2015
Cocktails by the Bay Dinner Reception Live Performance by Josh Groban After-Party
S A R A S O TA P R E M I E R E O F
THE 15TH ANNUAL VAN WEZEL FOUNDATION GALA
Sunday, February 28, 2016 | 5PM
TICKETS ON SALE NOW! For tickets and sponsorship opportunities call 941-366-5578 or visit vwfoundation.org GALA PROCEEDS SUPPORT THE VAN WEZEL FOUNDATION’S MISSION
Joan Lieberman
Famiglio Family
Bill & Sandy Dietrich
Newkirk/Bahaj/Schleicher Families
EVENTS OF DISTINCTION
l
ATTENTION TO DETAIL
Saturday, January 30, 2016 The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
Enjoy an elegant, black-tie evening of cocktails, auctions, dinner and dancing to the sounds of Soul Sensations. Guest of Honor Bishop Frank J. Dewane
HonoraryChair Maria DeSanto
Event Chairs
Mary Kenealy-Barbetta ď ™ Julie Delaney ď ™ Jane Norton We are proud to honor Northern Trust for their commitment to serving our community. Event Sponsor
To Benefit
Media Sponsors
Sarasota and Manatee Counties
Tickets are $300. Sponsorship opportunities are available.
For more information call 941-355-4680 at ext. 305 or email mpufta@ccdis1.org or visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org.
PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR Asolo Repertory Theatre
Lemon Bay Playhouse
941.351.8000 / asolorep.org
941.475.6756 / lemonbayplayhouse.com
West Side Story
Social Security
941.955.4942 / pmpsuncoast.org
Through December 27
December 2 – 20
PMP Sarasota Winter Residency
Conservatory – The Liar
The Perlman Music Program/Suncoast
December 17 – January 2
December 29 – January 17
Manatee Performing Arts Center
The Circus Arts Conservatory
941.748.5875 / manateeperformingartscenter.com
941.365.2494 / theplayers.org
941.355.9805 / circusarts.org
Disney’s The Little Mermaid
December 2 – 20
Sailor Circus Holiday Performance
December 3 – 9
Studio Holiday Revue
December 26 – 29
Little Mermaid, Jr.
December 14
Florida Studio Theatre 941.366.9000 / floridastudiotheatre.org
December 5
The Miracle Worker
The Players Theatre She Loves Me
The Ringling
December 5
941.359.5700 / ringling.org
A Tribute To The King-An Elvis Christmas Special
Quartetto Gelato
Through January 10
Butler
December 11
December 9 – February 21
It Was A Very Good Year
Dušan Týnek Dance Theatre: Joseph’s Coat
Cabaret – Soul Mates: A Journey To Hitsville
December 31
One Man, Two Guvnors
December 5 – 6
December 18 – 19
Through February 7
Custom Draperies & Window Treatments 343 Interstate Boulevard, Sarasota | Off I-75 & Fruitville Open 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Monday – Friday | 941.342.0900 | budgetblinds.com
December 2015
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Holiday Brass and Voices featuring Axiom Brass
Women of Ireland ~ Celtic Angels’ Christmas
Great American Trailer Park Christmas
December 19 – 20
December 10
December 3
Carrot Top
The James Taylor Experience
December 12
December 6 – 7
Bowzer’s Rock & Roll Holiday Party
A Christmas Carol
December 13
December 17 – 21
A Christmas Carol
The American Swing Experience
Sarasota Orchestra
December 23
December 29 – 31
941.953.3434 / sarasotaorchestra.org
Moscow Ballet: Great Russian Nutcracker
Venice Performing Arts Center
Sarasota Ballet 941.359.0099 / sarasotaballet.org
John Ringling’s Circus Nutcracker December 18 – 19
Masterworks 2 – Eroica December 4 – 6
December 28
Great Escapes 2 – Snow Globe
The Producers
December 9 – 12
Urbanite Theatre 941.321.1397 / urbanitetheatre.com
Lungs December 4 – January 3
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall 941.955.7676 | vanwezel.org
Kenny G
The Nutcracker
December 30
December 13
The Ten Tenors
Festive Sounds of the Season
December 31
Salute To Vienna New Year’s Concert January 3
December 20 – 21
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe 941.366.1505 / westcoastblacktheatre.org
Venice Theatre 941.488.1115 / venicestage.com
Hair Through December 13
December 3
941.480.3191 veniceperformingartscenter.com
A Motown Christmas December 2 – 31
New Year’s Spectacular December 31
Theater Performances:
Disney’s The Little Mermaid December 3-20,2015
The Miracle Worker December 3-20, 2015
A Tribute to the King – An Elvis Christmas Special December 11-12, 2015 Coming Soon:
A Chorus Line
January 7-24, 2016
The Diary of Anne Frank January 14-31, 2016
Tickets on sale now! $26-$36
Box Office: 941-748-5875 42
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December 2015
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ManateePerformingAr tsCenter.com
NEW STAGES 2015 – 2016: THE ART OF MAKING DANCE The series continues this month with new works from leading choreographers that explore what informs, shapes, defines, and animates diverse and dynamic creations of contemporary dance.
Joseph’s Coat, photo courtesy of artist
I Understand Everything Better, photo by Maria Baranova
UNSTRUCK, photo by Keira Heu-Jwyn Chang
DISCOVER
JOSEPH’S COAT
UNSTRUCK
DEC 18 & 19, 5:00 PM, James Turrell Skyspace
FEB 12 & 13, 7:30 PM, Historic Asolo Theater
Six dancers create an ever-evolving architectural kaleidoscope, made of human bodies, rapid movement, and subsequent stillness.
For her third New Stages engagement, Weare delves deeper into her exploration of spontaneous movement.
by Dušan Týnek Dance Theatre
RELATED PROGRAM:
Conversation with the Choreographer Dec 19 at 2:00 PM
by Kate Weare Company
RELATED PROGRAM:
Conversation with the Company Feb 13 at 2:00 PM
I UNDERSTAND EVERYTHING BETTER
by David Neumann/Advanced Beginner Group MAR 11 & 12, 7:30 PM, Historic Asolo Theater
Tickets: $30, $25 / $27, $22.50 for Members
Through a union of dance-making and the expansive structure of Japanese Noh theater, Neumann incorporates technology, weather reports, and personal narratives in an examination of our impulse to report on calamity. RELATED PROGRAM:
DISCOVER MORE
ringling.org
941.360.7399 OPEN DAILY at 10 AM
362 DAYS A YEAR!
Conversation with the Choreographer Mar 12 at 2:00 PM
Social RCAD Golf Tournament Ringling College of Art + Design held its 15th Annual Golf Tournament at Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club. Tournament participants raised scholarship funds for deserving students including guest speakers Mia and Tessa Pray, twin sisters who are both Computer Animation majors at Ringling College. This year’s sponsors included BMW of Sarasota, Willis Smith Construction, and Florida Blue with golf contests sponsored by Key Glass. Players received ‘Tips from the Pros’ thanks to golf demo sponsor APG Electric and enjoyed on-course beverages thanks to Hall Architects. Custom Carts sponsored a hole-in-one contest. SCENE was a media sponsor. Since 2001, the tournament has raised more than $600,000.
Steve Johnson, Tim Capadalis & Roger Williams
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December 2015
Photos by Nancy Guth
Larry Thompson, Jim Drayer, Scott Zelniker & Edward Jennings
Dan Mallon, Jim Westman & Ron Haynes
Scott Collins & Will Bean
FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE MAINSTAGE
CABARET
4 shows for as little as $59! 3 shows for as little as $39!
One Man, Two Guvnors By Richard Bean
Inspired insanity, high-low antics, and nimble wordplay - all backed by live musicians paying homage to rockabilly and a certain Fab Four. “Tongue twisting pleasures of alliteration” - The New York Times
Butler By Richard Strand
With sharp wit and tongue-in-cheek humor, Butler takes us on a journey to nd the true meaning of freedom during the Civil War. “Uproarious” - The New York Times
Outside Mullingar By John Patrick Shanley
This tender-hearted portrait reminds us that what we’re looking for is sometimes right in front of us. “Poignant” - The Seattle Times
Alabama Story By Kenneth Jones
Political foes, childhood friends, and one feisty author on the same page, but at opposite ends of clashing perceptions. “Cleverly crafted” - Salt Lake Tribune
Soul Mates:
A Journey to Hitsville
By Bill Castellino with Human Nature and David Rudder
The greatest memories and music of Rhythm & Blues, that changed America forever. Featuring songs such as: “My Girl,” “ABC,” “I’ll Be There,” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” “We set out to make quality music, that everyone could enjoy” - Smokey Robinson
Yesterday
Developed by Richard Hopkins, Rebecca Hopkins, and Jim Prosser
Journey back to a time of peace, love, and everything in between with the best groups of the British Invasion. Featuring songs such as: “Let It Be,” “Satisfaction,” and “I’m Into Something Good.” “Britannia ruled the airwaves in 1964” - Rolling Stone Magazine
Laughing Matters (vol. 5) Lock the Gates
Developed by Rebecca Hopkins, Jim Prosser, and Adam Ratner
A musical Saturday Night Live for Sarasota returns! Whether you lean left, right, or are still stuck on a roundabout, there will be no clean getaways. “A day without laughter is a day wasted” - Charlie Chaplin
Sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the State of Florida.
Luke Minx. Photo by Matthew Holler.
Richard Hopkins, Producing Artistic Director
Subscribe Online! !oridastudiotheatre.org
Mauldin & Jenkins Forging Relationships with Nonprofits & Philanthropists The bottom line when it comes to working with nonprofit organi-
Going beyond the numbers to provide value added services and
zations, and the philanthropists who support them, is an affinity
build solid relationships satisfies the desire to help nonprofits and
for, and alignment with, their respective missions to make the com-
philanthropic individuals and business owners achieve their mis-
munity a better place. Doing that, however, requires a significant
sions and make a difference in the community. “For nonprofits,
amount of compliance with requirements from the IRS and other
we want to be more than a compliance, audit, and tax service that
regulatory organizations for both nonprofits and philanthropists.
someone must do every year, we create relationships so we can help
For the professionals at Mauldin and Jenkins, a full service CPA
meet their goals,” says Brian Carter, a CPA and Partner with Maul-
firm with a specialty in not-for-profit auditing, tax, compliance and
din and Jenkins who specializes in auditing services for nonprofits.
consulting as well as individual charitable giving, accomplishing
“We also try to make working with us enjoyable and to be there for
those requirements is a given, and they don’t stop there.
our clients over the long term.”
The same approach is true for the high net worth clients and busi-
The firm aids families in planning charitable giving, determining
ness owners for whom Mauldin and Jenkins provide tax, estate
what is the best methodology to accomplish their goals and mini-
and charitable planning services. “We help identify their goals and
mize tax consequences. Mauldin and Jenkins have helped clients se-
design the best path for their legacy giving,” says Melodie Rich,
lect their best options, whether that is a donor directed fund through
a CPA and Tax Director for the firm who specializes in trusts,
a community foundation, a private family foundation, or one of a
estates and legacy planning. “We look for the best method of dis-
variety of trust options, according to Rich. “We help clients create
pensing their assets to minimize tax consequences.”
plans and structure those plans with the nonprofit in mind because we also ask the nonprofit what it needs,” she says. “Ultimately, we
Both Carter and Rich are part of Mauldin and Jenkins’ downtown
want individuals and business owners to have plans that support
Bradenton office, which is moving soon into a new office across
causes close to their hearts and look at tax savings as well.”
the street at 1401 Manatee Avenue West to accommodate its continued growth. The firm has six offices in four states, employs about 260 people, and has been in business since 1918. It works with 300 nonprofits overall and about 50 locally, and routinely is recognized as a Top 100 Firm by Inside Public Accounting and Accounting Today, two prominent trade journals. “Because we have the capacity of a large company, we have resources available that others may not have,” Carter says. “Yet, we feel and operate like a small town, local firm.”
“We
help clients create plans and structure those plans with the nonprofit in mind because we also ask the nonprofit what it needs. Ultimately, we want individuals and business owners to have plans that support causes close to their hearts and look at tax – Melodie Rich savings as well.
”
Services for nonprofits include audits, reviews and compilations, Form 990 and 990-T tax planning and return preparation, Federal
Carter and Rich believe the best way to serve their nonprofit and
A-133 audits, employee benefit plan administration, retirement
individual clients is to develop strong relationships. “We are pro-
plan audits, and more. Mauldin and Jenkins also looks beyond
active in our relationships and like to talk to our clients often
the financials to provide value added services. “All nonprofits
throughout the year,” Rich says. “Building a strong relationship
file Form 990, which is a crucial tax compliance tool to demon-
helps the year-end process because we already know what is go-
strate that they continue to deserve designation as a tax exempt
ing on.” Being active in the community is one way Mauldin and
organization,” Carter says. “Because this is a public document,
Jenkins professionals do just that. In addition to supporting many
we understand it also can be a powerful marketing tool because
nonprofits philanthropically, the firm participates in a quarterly
it gives an organization the opportunity to highlight its mission
community service initiative for local nonprofits. Recently that
and toot its horn a bit.”
involved holding an internal food drive and filling backpacks for Feeding Empty Little Tummies (F.E.L.T.)
Mauldin and Jenkins provides, at no added cost, benchmarking services for its nonprofit clients allowing them to evaluate their
Firm members also are active professionally and on many boards.
performance across a variety of metrics compared with other
Rich serves on the boards of the United Way of Manatee County,
similar nonprofits, identifying areas of strength and opportu-
Realize Bradenton, and Southwest Florida Planned Giving Coun-
nities for improvement. The firm issues a quarterly newsletter
cil. Carter is Chairman of the PACE Center for Girls board and
for nonprofits highlighting new developments and providing
on the South Florida Museum board. “We enjoy meeting someone
information on hot topic issues. The firm’s professionals also
at an event and getting to know them. The social connection is
provide continuing education for clients and the public on high
important to discovering common ground,” he says. “Finding like
interest topics like board governance, including proper struc-
minded people with the same passions forms personal relation-
ture, oversight and exercising fiduciary responsibilities, avoid-
ships that go beyond the professional.” More information about
ing conflict of interest issues, cyber security, and identifying
Mauldin and Jenkins may be found online at mjcpa.com or by
taxable income streams.
calling 941.747.4483.
BUYING OR
SELLING? It WOULD BE MY pleasure to assist you.
Denise Mei
Social Callaghan Tire Charity Pro-Am Golf Tournament This annual event full of legends, tall tales, trick shots, and camaraderie, featuring twenty-nine golf legends including Tony Jacklin, Hollis Stacy, Bobby Nichols, Andy Bean, Larry Ziegler, Dow Finsterwald, and Gibby Gilbert, was recently held at Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club and The Ritz-Carlton Members Club. This first-class tournament, started by Callaghan Tire CEO Dan Callaghan, has raised more than $600,000 for cancer research, with 100% of the tournament profits going to “Golfers Against Cancer.”
Photos by Nancy Guth
REALTOR®
Michelle Severson, Kathy Morgan, Dan & Betty Callaghan, Patty Virgilio & Jane Trinci
4288 Ocean Blvd #5D in Siesta Towers. Gulf views from every room in this split floor plan, coastal-chic getaway on Siesta Key! Beautifully updated condo featuring 2 master suites, tile floors, new hurricane doors and windows, updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite counters and tile back splash. Walk to the beach, shops and restaurants in the village in minutes! Siesta Towers features beautiful community amenities including two newly constructed fishing piers, a heated pool with spa, fitness center and modern community room with full chef’s kitchen. Nothing to do but move in! Wonderful value for an updated condo with gulf views on Siesta Key!
Tom Shaw, Joanna Ziegle & Bobbie Cole
Jim Dent, James Mason, Gibby Gilbert & Jerry Herd
941.685.3198
2014 Master’s Award Recipient Jeremy Keller, John Laurie & Tom Davidson
48
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December 2015
DESIGN
DAILY THERAPY
C
By Jacqueline Miller
ascading waterfalls. An ocean voyage. Golden sunsets. Your last vacation? No, silly. It’s all in your morning shower. ThermaSol will be introducing its next-generation of steam show-
ers in March 2016 and it will be available at that fabulous kitchen and bath showroom you can spend hours in – The Plumbing Place (5678 Fruitville Road, Sarasota | 941.378.5678). Seriously, once you visit this showroom, you’ll want to rip out your sinks, faucets, tub, shower and change all your hardware. But let’s get back to this amazing steam shower, which takes the home spa experience to a whole new level. Since the time of the Greek and Roman empires, medical practitioners have touted the health benefits of steam therapy and in the last 20 years, numerous scientific studies support traditional steam use. Benefits include detoxification; stress relief; respiratory health; muscle relaxation; skin rejuvenation; better sleep; and, overall wellness. The 7” LCL touchscreen controller; the Serenity Light, Sound and Rain Head; and the visualization shower enhancement named Tranquility create a fully immersive spa experience that touches all of the senses. According to ThermaSol, the 7” LCD touchscreen controller is the largest, brightest and most advanced in-shower controller on the market today. You can personalize steam duration, temperature setting, and individual memorized presets as well as Serenity and Tranquility settings. With the touchscreen, options and adjustment menus are displayed with vivid graphics and images, making it very user-friendly and enjoyable. It also includes built-in Infrared Temperature Sensing (ITS) and Bluetooth, enabling you to pair your Bluetooth media device and enjoy your music anywhere in the bath space. The Serenity Light, Sound and Rain Head creates a personal experience and environment with the creative use of light, sound and falling water. The mood lighting mode gradually delivers changing color palettes and in-shower lighting. The Chromotherapy mode (color therapy) delivers seven color-calibrated presets matching up with the body’s chakras (from Indian culture, chakras are the centers of spiritual power in the human body). The rain head shower has a gentle falling water sensation through two rows of 82 neoprene jets. In addition to the visualization scenes of waterfalls, an ocean voyage, and sunsets I previously mentioned, the Tranquility feature also has other relaxing environments such as an island getaway, a mountain stream, beach zen, a crackling fireplace, a spring forest and spa lights, as well as pre-programmed natural sounds. What’s the cost to have this incredibly relaxing and luxurious in-shower spa? Well it’s not cheap at $5,400 for an 8 X 10 shower, but it’s definitely worth it given its healthy benefits! Mark your calendar to stop in The Plumbing Place in March and get your dose of daily therapy. December 2015
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STUNNING LAKEWOOD RANCH COUNTRY CLUB ESTATE This exquisite 5,728 sq. ft. custom residence built by Peregrine is located in the beautiful Highfield neighborhood behind the gates of Lakewood Ranch Country Club. Prepare to be awestruck upon entering the stately Cantera iron double doors by the soaring 27' ceilings, dramatic circular wood and iron staircase, expansive windows and incredible architectural detailing. Every feature of this stunning estate is extra special from the professional chef’s kitchen, to the temperature controlled wine cellar, to the private outdoor living with a fabulous outdoor kitchen, fireplace, and stunning salt water pool and spa, to the sybaritic inspired master suite, offering a distinguished lifestyle for those with impeccable taste. The Country Club at Lakewood Ranch is a private membership club offering 54 holes of golf, an 18 court tennis center, and a fully equipped athletic center. The community features beautiful streetscapes, shimmering lakes, and nature preserves. Just minutes away from Lakewood Ranch Main Street and the new University Town Center Mall both with fabulous shopping and dining.
Offered at $2,550,000
Linda Apple | 941.586.0553
Creatively Empowering Generous Hearts Clients who have turned to Wealth Planning and Design
time we think about writing a check to a charity, which is
for its proprietary approach to financial planning also are
a cash gift. That’s good, but there may be more efficient
finding that process can reveal ways for them to support
ways to give, and that’s what we help our clients discover.”
their favorite organizations and causes far more than they
During Wealth Planning and Design’s planning process,
believed they could. Using a sophisticated series of assess-
those opportunities are often uncovered, and December is
ment tools that help families gain a deep understanding of
not too late to come in for year-end planning that can take
their underlying beliefs about finances, Wealth Planning
advantage of beneficial strategies, Clark adds.
and Design’s experienced professionals customize portfo-
Most clients are inclined to give generously, and if that
lios to their goals and risk tolerance. The same in-depth
is their desire, Wealth Planning and Design makes it as easy
approach has helped clients create strategies that allow
as possible. “Our goal is to help uphold a client’s desire for
them greater opportunities for charitable giving without
generosity. It’s very rewarding when we sit down with a
impacting cash flow for daily living.
client, look at how they want to help organizations in our
“We have discovered that most people would give
community that are making a positive impact, and show
more especially if they thought they had more,” said advi-
them some ideas that allow them to give significantly,” said
sor Mark Clark. “When we think about giving most of the
advisor Joni Rametta. “It feels good to see their reaction
Mark Clark, Len Leetzow & Joni Rametta
when they find they can give more than they thought they could without reducing their lifestyle cash flow.”
a few thousand dollars a year.” Both Clark and Rametta have National Christian Foun-
One effective way to accomplish that is for clients to
dation (NCF) donor advised funds through which they sup-
consider donating non-cash assets such as appreciated stock
port Easter Seals locally and other organizations. They like
and property, or even a non-voting interest in a business or
NCF’s approach to providing a simple method for generous
proceeds from the sale of a business. A variety of tax-advan-
givers who want to multiply their impact, and experience
taged options exist, some of which can even provide ongo-
the joy of sending more to their favorite causes than they
ing income to support clients’ lifestyles. “As an example, one
ever dreamed possible. NCF says it helps achieve charita-
client used an appreciated stock and set up a certain type
ble dreams for individuals whose passions for giving range
of charitable remainder trust. This arrangement not only had
from more Bibles to more clean water or more justice.
tax advantages, but the client received substantial income,
Having a charitable fund also is a great way to nurture
more than the cost of the gift,” according to Len Leetzow,
children with giving hearts. “Since a donation can be made
who handles portfolio management for Wealth Planning and
in any year for tax purposes and given out over time, if a
Design. “Another client had property that appreciated nine-
child comes home from Sunday school and wants to help
fold. By selling it to a state land protection trust, that client
with a mission trip, the funds are available. It is a chance
did not have to pay tax on the appreciation and has received
to help a new generation follow in their parents generous
a nice income from it for the past dozen years.”
footsteps,” Rametta said. “It also allows you to support
Other options include setting up a donor advised fund, which can be done through charitable foundations or even
something that comes up unexpectedly without touching your current cash flow.”
a private family foundation, which Wealth Planning and
Charitable funds also can have tax advantages for those
Design advisors can help facilitate by working with clients’
who must take required minimum distributions from their
attorneys and tax advisors. “A donor advised fund provides
retirement accounts annually, Leetzow said, adding that he
flexibility while still giving donors the ability to direct funds
believes charitable giving adds richness to everyone’s life
to the organizations they choose,” Clark said. “That dona-
experience. “Whether you give your time or money,” he
tion can be made today for tax purposes even if someone
said, “the reward can be the knowledge that you made
has not decided specifically what charities will receive the
life better for those less fortunate than yourself, or watch
funds. People think you have to have a million dollars to
individuals grow in their knowledge, or simply in seeing a
have a charitable fund, but some people use them for just
smile on the face of someone you helped.”
More information about Wealth Planning and Design is available by calling 941.361.1484 or visiting wealthplanninganddesign.com.
SaVE THE daTE SaRaSOTa MEMORIal HEalTHcaRE FOuNdaTION pRESENTS
WOMEN&MEDICINE
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F R O N T I E R S
IN ONcOlOGY Friday, January 15, 2016 11:30am–1:30pm The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota Join us for an informative and interactive panel discussion with dr. James Fiorica, dr. Kenneth Meredith, and dr. alissa Shulman, three Sarasota Memorial Hospital Physicians, as they share trends in oncology care at SMH.
co-chairs Deb Kabinoff Charlie Ann Syprett
For reservations and information please contact: 941.917.1286 or visit smhf.org
Sponsorship opportunities available.
ENVISION
Tomorrow’s Healthcare Today
TM
The information contained on this ad is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. Please contact your professional financial advisor with any specific questions.
Well-being
Humanity
Service
Donations
Care
Contribution
Aid
Doing
Philanthropy can be defined in many ways: acts of kindness; volunteerism; or donations of money, goods, or services to help our fellow man. It can make a difference in the life of one person, a group of people, a town, city, state and the world. From foundations, to business leaders, to organizations that help, to people who generously give to the causes they hold near and dear, our community is blessed to have so many amazing people with philanthropic hearts. Â
Advancement
Gifts
Arts
Volunteer
Love
Heart
Human
Charity
Helping
Giving
Sounds of Our Future
State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota
P
By Sue Cullen
arents and local high school students researching colleges that have excellence in math, technology and overall academics, thriving arts curricula, highly-regarded faculty, robust athletics programs, and rich
campus life may be intrigued to learn all of that is available right here. In addition, one local college also has an acclaimed music department and the only open access fine and performing arts program in the region. It can be a bit surprising for some to learn all of that is available at the area’s “community’s college”, the State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF).
December 2015
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Area arts aficionados have been taking notice of the quality of SCF’s music education with its chamber choir’s superb accompaniment of Susan Boyle at the Van Wezel last season and the proficiency of its student performers in the complex and challenging “Carmina Burana”, which sold out entirely. At the same time, as it has for the past 60 years, SCF serves as an affordable way for students who are seeking a top-notch, quality education to achieve a college education. In addition to its outstanding associate in arts degree program, it offers eight baccalaureate degrees as well as providing a career education for many through more than 29 associate in science degrees and certificate programs in 19 areas. SCF’s superior performance record demonstrates that excellence in science, math and technology – STEM subjects – can be achieved without losing sight of the practical relevance and importance of the arts. “Students are most important to us. We provide them accessible, quality programs to give them what they need to get a job or move on to their next academic endeavor,” says Dr. Carol F. Probstfeld, President of SCF. “Our music program shows how we go above and beyond the learning process in the classroom.” SCF and its students recently have collected a host of accolades. To name a few, the Florida Board of Education awarded it a Gold Standard as part of its performance funding system, which measured job placement/continuing education, completion rates, retention rates, and completer entry wages. The college also has earned a number of laurels in academic competitions. Its Brain Bowl team bested the defending champion and 22 other teams to win the National Academic Quiz Tournament and took the championship at the Florida College System Activities Association state tournament. The Model United Nations team was also named the equivalent of “National Champions.” Its Math Olympics team placed fourth at a state competition, and two students placed second and fourth at the Central Florida Presidential Quartet
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Undergraduate Mathematics Conference where SCF was the only two-year school to compete. The college’s passing rate on state exams is virtually 100 percent for nursing and other health professions programs. In SCF’s music program, some students want to find careers in the field, but many others are not music majors. “Students in our music program, or who study music while they are here, have a high academic achievement rate, completion rate and attendance because they have a multilevel connectedness with the college and with the community through our many public performances,” Probstfeld says. “These students say that being in the music program makes them feel part of a group and alumni tell us their involvement in the music program provided some of their fondest memories.” It’s not possible to overstate the importance of that sense of connection for students who commute to campus. Over the years, generous donors have given students a hand up in achieving their academic dreams through scholarships and other financial aid, and now SCF's Foundation has launched a $10 million capital campaign for a new Studio for the Performing Arts, Health and Human Performance Center, and Library Learning Center. This campaign and other funding opportunities provide many ways for donors to help SCF continue to prepare its students for rewarding careers and a chance for the better life higher education can provide. Shelton Brown is an SCF music major and scholarship recipient, who will complete his associate’s degree in the spring and plans to pursue additional education in music and theater. Brown loved singing from an early age and had a scholarship and financial aid from a well-regarded Florida university, but still was unable to make it work financially. “I had to figure out where I could go to school, and my stepmom had gone to SCF. She told me it’s affordable and has good teachers. I wasn’t planning to go to a community college, but I am so glad I came to SCF,” he says. Despite a two-hour round trip commute, Brown per-
“Our students have many opportunities to gain experience and build confidence. They have the chance to play the lead in musicals or to be first chair. These opportunities are not as available for freshmen and sophomores at Four-year schools.ˮ –Melodie Dickerson, Director of Music Program and Vocal/Choral Studies
forms well academically and is engaged in many activities, including the Musical Theatre Ensemble. He recently performed in West Side Story and The Civil War and also is involved in student government and the African American Student Union. The scholarship aid he receives not only helps Brown attend classes but also allows him to participate in activities that build career and life experience. “SCF makes a way for students to go to school and focus on school. There is a lot of talent here, but most people who come here are financially burdened. At one point I was working three jobs, so any SCF scholarship money I can put toward my education is a load off,” he says. “Being able to be more involved has made me a better student, a better citizen, and a better person in general.” Along with the Musical Theatre Ensemble, SCF has a Concert Choir, Chamber Choir, Symphony Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Guitar Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, and Jazz Combo. To raise awareness of the breadth of SCF’s capabilities, and the many accomplishments of its music students and faculty, Probstfeld now travels to speaking engagements with the Presidential Quartet comprised of first chair students. The quartet also is available to play at select local events. While all students are accepted into the music program, they do audition for scholarships and for the performing groups, and 90 percent of those who audition for scholarships choose to attend SCF, December 2015
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Front left: Shelton Brown in The Civil War
according to Melodie Dickerson, Director of Music Program and Vocal/Choral Studies, who joined SCF 12 years ago to help build the music program. “Our students have many opportunities to gain experience and build confidence. They have the chance to play the lead in musicals or to be first chair. These opportunities are not as available for freshmen and sophomores at four-year schools,” Dickerson says. Knowing their students often must overcome hurdles to complete their education, she and the other faculty reach out to help outside the classroom as necessary. “We will give students a ride to school or extra help if they need it. We understand that participation in an ensemble may be the reason a student will fight to stay in school.” The music program has come a long way since Dickerson joined SCF and now has seven full time and 25 adjunct professors. Dr. Robyn Bell joined the music department seven years ago and is SCF’s Director of Instrumental Studies. As a conductor for both band and orchestra, Bell has worked to build the instrumental program as well as strong relationships with local high school band directors and students. In addition to conducting SCF’s Symphonic Band and Symphony Orchestra, she conducts the Pops Orchestra and formerly conducted the Sarasota Orchestra Youth Symphony. Bell strives to provide students with enriching opportunities for real world experience. “We are more like a professional organization than an academic organization, and our students live up to that,” she says. “It has been very rewarding to see students come through our program, go on to get their music degree and come back to work in our area high schools in their music programs.” With Dickerson’s and Bell’s extensive involvement in their respective professional organizations, students also have many chances to compete in state and national competitions. SCF represented eight of 16 All-State Orchestra musicians and won awards and scholarships at the Florida College System Activities Association Winter Music Symposium. Even more impressive, SCF is the only state/ community college to bring orchestra students to state competitions. The accomplishments of these two women also have been recognized by their professional peers, who nominated them for the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development Excellence Award. The recently-launched $10 million capital improvement campaign for SCF’s Bradenton campus, located a short distance north of the Sarasota-Bradenton Airport, includes $3.5 million for a new Studio for the Performing Arts. The studio will include a 150-seat recital hall that will be built as an addition to the
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Howard Studio Theatre and will complement the Neel Performing Arts Center, providing rehearsal space for students. It also will include a dance studio, music library, percussion lounge, practice areas, costume storage and faculty offices. “In 2010, the Department of Education performed a facilities study on our current performing arts practice facilities and determined that they were not suitable for our program needs with no funding,” says Cassandra Holmes, Executive Director of the SCF Foundation. “It is vital that we address this priority program for our community and students’ needs. We are seeking to engage current and new donors who will join with us today for a better program tomorrow.” Also included in the campaign is a $5.5 million Health and Human Performance Center, which will include an exercise facility and gymnasium for SCF’s men’s and women’s athletic teams. In addition to its use by students and faculty, the facility will have a wellness component for the community. A $1 million Library Learning Center enhancement also is planned. “We would like to invite the community to get involved with us. While there are brick and mortar opportunities, and we continually need technology and equipment to keep up-to-date in our successful bio-tech and medical programs, for instance, people have this misconception that they need to donate a lot of money to be a donor and make a difference,” Holmes says. “In reality, a $200 donation or less can make an impact. Nurs-
“More students want to come here because they want to learn from these instructors and the same applies to our other programs. This makes SCF a valuable asset for the community, and the support of volunteers, donors and regional leaders has been invaluable.” –Dr. Carol F. Probstfeld, President of SCF
Dr. Matthew Thomas, Trudy Moon, Dr. Eric Warrick and Dr. Carol Probstfeld in the biotechnology lab, Bradenton campus.
ing students need stethoscopes and watches with second hands, and occupational and physical therapy students need large geometers. These items cost $50 to $150 and some students have a hard time affording that. We have many deserving students who could use a little help getting a good start in life, and many opportunities for donors to connect in ways that are meaningful to them.” SCF leadership also has begun implementing a new five year Strategic Plan with four main priorities aimed at continuing to meet students’ needs, further improving performance metrics, proactively collaborating on curriculum development to be responsive to workforce needs, and helping the community better understand the role and impact SCF has in education, culture, charitable partnerships, workforce development and community engagement. “Success breeds success, which explains the growth of our music program. It is due to incredible faculty who go above and beyond the learning process in the classroom,” Probstfeld says. “More students want to come here because they want to learn from these instructors and the same applies to our other programs. This makes SCF a valuable asset for the community, and the support of volunteers, donors and regional leaders has been invaluable.” December 2015
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Leading the Way Mark Pritchett, Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s New Leader By Ryan G. Van Cleave
M
ark Pritchett, the new President and CEO of Gulf Coast Community Foundation as of September 2015, is a busy, busy man these days. It’s not that
Pritchett didn’t have a lot to do in his previous role as senior vice president for community investment, a position where he was responsible for creating and implementing Gulf Coast’s strategies for grantmaking and initiatives. “In my previous job,” he admits, “I didn’t need to meet face-to-face with our donors as often as I do now.” Yet he’s enjoying the hectic pace of meeting the hundreds and hundreds of people who work so hard to make the foundation the dynamic philanthropic organization that it is. For the past 13 years, former President and CEO Teri Hansen had served as the face of the foundation, but after she moved on to become CEO of a private family foundation, the task was on Gulf Coast to find a suitable replacement. Led by a committee of Gulf Coast Board members and the executive-search firm Spencer Stuart, the national search took five months before settling on Pritchett. “After a comprehensive, nationwide search,” explains Gulf Coast Board Chair Ben Hanan, “we identified Mark as the best leader to advance Gulf Coast’s mission of transforming our region, together with our donors, through bold and proactive philanthropy. He knows this region well, and he is already leading the way in redefining the role philanthropy can play in transforming it.”
When asked why he believed he was the right person for the job, Pritchett says, “Surely part of its because of my background, a blend of business and nonprofit work.” Prior to his joining Gulf Coast in 2008, he served as executive
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December 2015
“After
a comprehensive, nationwide search we identified Mark as
the best leader to advance Gulf Coast’s mission of transforming our region, together with our donors, through bold and proactive philan-
fuels him further. One example of that success started, ironically, through tragedy when Denise Amber Lee was
thropy. He knows this region well, and he is already leading the way
kidnapped and murdered
in redefining the role philanthropy can play in transforming it.”
by Michael King in 2008. Lee
– Ben Hanan, Gulf Coast Community Foundation Board Chair
and others tried to get help by calling 911, but somehow help wasn’t sent in time be-
vice president of a statewide public policy research
cause of 911 operator errors. Lee’s family came to Pritch-
and consulting firm and as vice president of the Florida
ett for assistance in setting up a training system for 911
Chamber of Commerce. At the Chamber, he worked
operators to keep disastrous mistakes like this from oc-
with big corporations like Disney and IBM, and he’s also
curring again. “I’m concerned that you’re not thinking
represented business interests as a lobbyist in Tallahas-
big enough,” he suggested to them.
see. Additionally, he helped set up offices in Orlando for Enterprise Florida, a public-private partnership between
To see if that was true, Gulf Coast conducted a statewide
Florida’s business and government leaders that serves
study that confirmed 911 operator competence could
as the principal economic developer in the state.
indeed be improved through uniform training standards that did not exist in Florida and many other states. The
Pritchett’s academic credentials certainly didn’t hurt
result was the formation of the Denise Amber Lee Foun-
— he graduated with distinction from the University of
dation, a non-profit organization with the mission “To pro-
Kentucky, where he earned his bachelor’s and mas-
mote and support public safety through uniform training,
ter’s degrees. He received his PhD from Florida State
standardized protocols, defined measurable outcomes,
University, where his research focused on strategic
and technological advances in the 911 system.” Pritchett
planning best practices in higher education.
points out that hundreds of thousands of lives could be positively impacted by something created in this region
Plus, during his seven years with Gulf Coast, Pritch-
and then duplicated throughout the nation.
ett successfully developed community coalitions to address priorities such as diversifying the regional
He’s not someone who needs to be the smartest person
economy, ensuring a competitive workforce, and
in the room, either. “I try to find and surround myself with
improving systems for providing social services. He
bright, successful people who don’t back down from
also focused on leveraging Gulf Coast’s funding with
challenges,” Pritchett says. The idea of not backing down
other philanthropic resources and creating innova-
from a challenge enters his own life these days by trying
tive ways to connect donors with community needs.
to maintain his commitment to health and exercise de-
For example, while Gulf Coast originally committed
spite needing to participate in so many events, meetings,
$2.5 million to its five-year STEMsmart science and
and projects. Whether it’s running, lifting weights, swim-
math education initiative, the cumulative investment
ming, or riding his bike in one of this three favorite local
in area schools through this initiative has topped $11
areas — the Legacy Trail, Venetian Waterway Park, and
million when you count contributions from donors,
Longboat Key — he’s still making time to keep his health
business partners, and local school districts.
and well-being a priority. “This past summer,” he says, “I even rode my bicycle in the mountains in Montana and
But Pritchett doesn’t spend much time talking about
went straight up into Canada. What a beautiful area.”
himself — he quickly brings things back to the Gulf Coast team. “This past year, we surpassed $200 mil-
Involving Millennials in philanthropy and finding a way
lion in cumulative funding,” he says. “That’s in large
to keep talented young people in our area are just two
part because of the great, great team we have here.”
of the growing challenges Pritchett and Gulf Coast are looking to address. But from the impressive track record
He’s a result-driven person, and seeing the impact
since Gulf Coast’s inception in 1995, it’s clear that they’re
Gulf Coast’s successes have on the real world only
equipped to take these and other challenges head-on. December 2015
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63
PASSIONATE
BUSINESS By Sue Cullen | Photos by Nancy Guth
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December 2015
Standing out from a philanthropic perspective is no easy feat in an area known for its generosity, but Jonna Keller has done just that, earning recognition for her efforts, especially for her work with a cause so close to her heart, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota County. In addition to her own volunteerism, Keller, who is owner/Managing Partner of First Security Investments of Southwest Florida (FSI), takes her passion a step beyond by becoming her clients’ conduit with the community, often connecting them with their favorite nonprofits in deeper ways.
December 2015
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65
Warm and approachable, she is focused on building relationships with her clients whom FSI calls members. She also builds bridges among clients, the community, and those she serves through the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota County (BGCSC) and other nonprofits. “We pull at our members’ heart strings. Many of them give funds to charities, but we’ve created a lot of volunteers,” Keller says. “We have helped a lot of people find their passion.” Her own passion for helping children reach their potential was inspired by her mother, who ran a Head Start program in Idaho. Keller does her own inspiring by offering FSI members a chance to connect in a meaningful way through a host of creative, fun, and intimate events. In one instance, she sent clients aprons embroidered with their names and save the date cards inviting them to FSI’s office at 3340 Bee Ridge Road. After a wine and cheese social, clients boarded a trolley – destination unknown – and were treated to a private tour of All Faiths Food Bank. When the tour ended, eight apron-clad children taught them to make a meal for under $2, which they ate together. “This was just after the holidays, and the shelves were empty,” Keller says. “Many of them already supported All Faiths Food Bank, but they had no
learn a trade, such as plumbing and electrical, or do
idea of the need.”
college prep work. “We’ll be able to feed students
With her passion for BGCSC’s mission, she tries to create links with clients’ passions and her own interests, such as having the children from the BGCSC attend performances at Florida Studio Theatre or helping a client who is very involved with Howard University alumni expose that group to an education awareness initiative the club was trying to get started. Keller’s own
into Sarasota County Technical Institute, and they and their parents will have the opportunity to find better paying jobs, particularly with the need for skilled trades driven by the increased building and construction in our area,” Keller says.
involvement with the BGCSC began as a volunteer helping children who
Working with the children, she saw a need to con-
were struggling to read.
nect them with today’s technology and helped
She currently serves on the board as Chair Elect and Treasurer and is committee chair for the Women’s Leadership Council, which she has helped to raise $700,000 for club initiatives. Those initiatives include converting space at the Lee Wetherington Boys and Girls Club into a Career Resource Center for workforce development where students – and their parents – can
found the nonprofit Tech Readers Enrich Kids (T.R.E.K.), which provides electronic readers for at-risk children. It is a particular boon to children who are sometimes homeless because it gives them a portable way to store a large amount of reading material. “This was a natural fit with BGCSC,” Keller says. “When children who are being tutored for reading and literature get to passing levels, we
“Jonna truly understands the impor-
tance for children to have enriching programs that help them live healthy lives, achieve academic success, and become leaders. She has given the children served at BGCSC so much, the courage to read and enjoy reading, and to feel good about themselves.” – Bill Sadlo, President and CEO of BGCSC
give them a reader.” She also has served as chair for the club-sponsored Women in a Changing World, which brings in prominent women from the area and nationally, exposing local women to global thinking on a range of subjects that will help them in their business and personal lives. Her efforts on behalf of the children have earned her the 2015 Beverly Burton New Board/Council Member of the Year Award from the Florida Area Council for outstanding leadership. She also was honored this year among “Seven Who Care” by ABC 7 for personifying the spirit of volunteerism and making the Suncoast a better place. “Jonna is an exceptional board member who goes above and beyond for the children we serve,” says Bill Sadlo, President and CEO of BGCSC. “Jonna truly understands the importance for children to have enriching
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December 2015
programs that help them live healthy lives, achieve academic success, and become leaders. She has given the children served at BGCSC so much, the courage to read and enjoy reading, and to feel good about themselves.” Keller also passionately supports a number of other nonprofits and enjoys finding creative ways to connect clients with them. Each year she hosts a docent-led tour of the public artwork on display at the Embracing Our Differences exhibit and caps the tour with a picnic lunch. “Our clients look forward to this tour every year,” she says. “They like learning more about the artists and the authors of the quotes on display.” She also has arranged backstage tours, performances, and other special activities at Asolo Rep, Florida Studio Theatre, and Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe. Because she likes to offer opportunities for clients to interact socially, she also holds annual golf and mahjong tournaments along with scotch and cigar nights. “We try to be sure we are incorporating their passions as well. One client created hand-painted cards with her artwork of doors in Tuscany, and we enclose them as birthday presents for clients,” Keller says. “Another client has CMT, a not very well known form of polyneuropathy, and we are helping her raise awareness about this condition.”
Keller is an avid proponent of client education. FSI is a member of the Academy of Preferred Financial Advisors and follows its guidelines in providing quality education for clients.
As client, community and philanthropically focused as she
These include bringing in a roster of high-powered speakers
is, Keller never loses sight of her main mission, which is to
including CEOs like Frank Holmes of U.S. Global Investors
manage clients’ financial assets. She brings an impressive
and John Carter, a well-known commodities trader and au-
background to the task as a financial planner and Accredit-
thor of Mastering the Trade. FSI also sponsored, for clients,
ed Investment Fiduciary® with more than 25 years of indus-
a one woman show at Florida Studio Theatre by Neale God-
try experience. She began her career at a wire house in Ida-
frey, a renowned author of 26 books on financial literacy
ho and relocated to Washington, D.C., where she worked
for children and adults. In addition to quarterly meetings to
for a major wire house and some of the top names in the
review a client’s current financial picture, FSI issues regular
financial industry. Keller moved to Sarasota in 1996 and
newsletters to keep clients informed of economic news as
founded FSI in 1999, building the company today largely
well as tax law and estate planning rule updates.
on referrals. Well known throughout the industry, she was a panel member and speaker at the U.S. National Committee for U.N. Women and was one of only two advisors invited to speak at a New York workshop for 450 financial advisors.
Not too surprisingly, Keller’s creative way with events is evident in FSI’s educational initiatives as well. One event that will be memorable is being held in downtown Sarasota at The Francis. In order to inform clients about the
FSI offers personalized solutions for clients that integrate
emerging global markets in which FSI is investing, stations
investment planning, tax reduction planning, retirement
will be set up throughout the venue where clients can
income and distribution planning, and family wealth plan-
learn about each individual market while enjoying a taste
ning. “As an independent advisor, we have the ability to
of its cuisine. “It is always our team’s goal to go above
represent our clients to the entire marketplace and pro-
and beyond for our clients and to make them feel special.
vide solutions that truly meet their specific needs,” Keller
Even with the volatility we’ve seen lately in the markets,
says. “Developing easy to understand client-centric plans,
our phone has hardly rung. That speaks loudly to the rela-
complemented with our continuous client education and
tionship we have built with our clients and the trust they
communication is our main priority at FSI.
place in us,” Keller says.
3340-A Bee Ridge Road ◊ Sarasota, FL 34239 ◊ (941) 922-9100 ◊ (866) 846-2663 ◊ (866) 8-INCOME ◊ Fax (941) 929-1400 Securities offered through Sigma Financial Corporation ◊ Member FINRA/SIPC ◊ First Security Investments, LLC of SWF is independent of Sigma Financial Corporation December 2015
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OUR MANY SEIDES
TABLESEIDE RESTAURANTS
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Supporting the ARTS has never been easier! SHARE YOUR LOVE OF THE ARTS WITH FUTURE GENERATIONS...
BE PART OF THE VISION... Woman’s Exchange Vision:
To touch the heart and stimulate the creative mind of every adult and child in Sarasota and Manatee counties, through its financial support of a large and artistically diverse group of organizations, as well as students who aspire to be the world’s next generation of cultural influence.
ROYAL TREATMENT PROGRAM
T
he “Royal Treatment” program was designed to help individuals who are moving, downsizing or liquidating an estate. A life change of this magnitude can be daunting, emotionally draining and at times costly, especially when it requires long distance travel or time away from work. The Woman’s Exchange will help simplify the process by coming to your home, packing and removing everything you wish to donate, at no charge to you. Additionally, you will receive an itemized tax donation letter, detailing your gift.
Woman’s Exchange’s vast consignment or estate sale operation. The proceeds from the sale of your items will be used to support the Woman’s Exchange’s mission and filtered back into the local community in the form of arts related grants and scholarships. A donation of this nature can be an efficient and cost effective approach to help simplify your affairs. You’ll also have the added satisfaction of knowing your donation will be put to good use, benefiting the lives of so many for generations to come.
A charitable gift of this kind will then be sold through the 539 S. ORANGE | 941-955-7859 | OPEN MON-FRI 9-4 & SAT 10-4, 1st FRIDAYS TIL 5PM
GRANT RECIPIENTS: Asolo, Arts and Culture Alliance, Art Center of Manatee, Banyan Theater Company, Coexistence, Inc., Exsultate, Florida Studio Theatre, Fuzion Dance Artists, Gloria Musicae, Hermitage, Jazz Juvenocracy, Key Chorale, La Musica di Aslo, Musica Sacra, North Port Area Art Center, North Port Chorale, Players Theater, Perlman Music Program/Suncoast, Sarasota Concert Band, Sarasota Film Society, Sarasota Film Festival, Sarasota Opera, Sarasota Orchestra, Sarasota Season of Sculpture, Sarasota Pops, Selby Gallery, Selby Botanical Gardens, The John and Mable Ringling Museum & Art Foundation, Van Wezel Foundation, Inc., West Coast Black Theatre Troupe, Venice Symphony, Urbanite Theatre SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS: The Woman’s Exchange also awards an average of 20 plus scholarships annually to local high school and college students pursuing a higher education in the arts.
Human Trafficking Hits Close to Home Selah Freedom Helps Survivors Get Back Their Lives
By Sue Cullen | Photo by Nancy Guth Human trafficking is a significant and often overlooked crisis in America. Most tend to think of it as an overseas problem or one that affects only non-American women. Many are surprised and alarmed to learn that large numbers of local women and children from our area are being sold for sex. The magnitude of this issue inspired the creation of the nonprofit organization, Selah Freedom. It is devoted to ending sex trafficking and freeing those who are exploited. Selah Freedom impacted the lives of more than 400 girls and women last year alone with a comprehensive program to help them leave the life. This includes an innovative approach to healing emotional wounds from the repeated traumas they endure allowing them truly to be free. Selah Freedom co-founder, President and CEO, Elizabeth Fisher, says research indicates these women are forced to have sex for money between 15 to 40 times daily. The young girl or woman prostitute, dancer in a strip club, or high priced escort believes she has no alternative to this life. How she becomes entrapped is a common and disturbing tale. “One out of three little girls and one out of five little boys in America experience sexual abuse, which is the root of our trafficking problem,” according to Fisher. “It’s an epidemic and reaches everyone regardless of ethnicity or socioeconomic background. The majority of people have no idea this is happening in their area.” Early abuse and the shame that accompanies it, coerce children into keeping it a secret. This tremendous burden takes its toll on them, making it difficult to succeed in school and often makes life so intolerable that many run away. Within 48 hours, 80 percent of runaway children will be approached by a predator who offers help, Fisher says. “They entice children by saying they will take care of them and understand them in a way their parents did not,” she says. “They become a psychological and emotional hostage, and really have no options.” For those who find this as disconcerting as Fisher and Selah Freedom co-founders Laurie Swink and Misty Stinson did, there are plenty of opportunities to help. The three women launched Selah Freedom in 2011 to help these girls reclaim their lives first through a residential program. Although that remains important, the organization’s largest initiatives are outreach and preventive teen programs. They believe this will attack the problem at its roots. Once survivors decide to leave the life, the residential program has two safe houses for recovery. They commit to completing a holistic program with numerous components including an individualized education plan, counseling, and other services along with an innovative change therapy to resolve trauma with Dr. Jason Quintal. “When people go through troubling circumstances, the brain can get stuck and doesn’t realize those circumstances are over,” says Quintal whose team provides all of the trauma treatment for the survivors. “The person realizes rationally that the experience is over and it is not their fault, but reminders can trigger that part of the brain and the emotion associated with the trauma causing the person to relive it.” This process typically takes about eight hours rather than months or years as with traditional talk therapy. With the methodology Quintal uses, which is grounded in neuroscience, emotional traumas are identified and cleared without the person having to relive the experience or the emotions associated with it. “In essence, we update that part of the brain and unplug that emotion in a gentle, painless way,” Quintal says. In addition to clearing traumas from sexual and other abuse, Quintal’s accelerated healing methods also are
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“ [Sex Trafficking is] an epidemic
and reaches everyone regardless of ethnicity or socioeconomic background. The majority of people have no idea this is happening in their area.” – Selah Freedom co-founder, President and CEO, Elizabeth Fisher
proven to help with post traumatic stress, anxiety, guilt, shame,
jail. “For these girls, it is critical to offer assistance and build
depression, grief, phobias, and more.
trust, until they are ready to leave the life,” Fisher says. “It’s
“Our partnership with Dr. Quintal is extremely important,”
also about changing perceptions with law enforcement, gov-
Fisher says. “I’m a masters level therapist, and I know his ap-
ernment officials and business. We partner with the Sarasota
proach works. We would never be able to do this work without
Police and other agencies, who now realize that these women
his help.” Once survivors have completed the residential program
need to be rescued, not arrested. One officer told us the girls
and are ready to move on to jobs or college, the Women’s Re-
used to run from them, but now they run to them for help.”
source Center provides classes and local employers, such as Ad-
The need continues to grow as people become aware of
vanced Staffing and Bealls Department Stores, have stepped for-
Selah Freedom’s services. This year it has served more than
ward to offer them a career path–a tremendous gift, Fisher says.
three times the women it did last year. This requires addition-
Selah Freedom is the only organization in this region cer-
al funds to expand staff and programs, expand the campus
tified in My Life, My Choice – a teen prevention program for
for 16 survivors, and create an endowment. Fundraising must
12- to 17-year-old girls. It works with those most directly at risk,
be completed by the end of the year to receive $150,000 in
including victims of abuse, neglect or those exposed to family
matching funds from the Pentecost Foundation.
violence, through survivor-led curricula and support groups.
There are many opportunities for people to contribute to
My Life, My Choice successfully lowers the chances of com-
the cause from administration to transportation, mentoring sur-
mercial sexual exploitation by 90 percent, Fisher says. “Our
vivors, hosting awareness events and fundraisers, and clinically
goal is to intervene at an early age and get into every church,
volunteering to lead groups. “These girls are amazingly resil-
synagogue and school to nip it in the bud,” she adds.
ient. When given the chance to redirect the skills they needed
Selah’s outreach is headed by Kindsey Pentecost and creat-
to survive toward creating a new life, they are brilliant,” Fisher
ed TYLA, the state’s first court diversion program that partners
says. “They have the chance to fully reclaim who they were
with law enforcement and the Florida State Attorney’s office
meant to be.” For more information about Selah Freedom, visit
to aid those who are still in the life, both on the streets and in
selahfreedom.com or call 941.677.8840. December 2015
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Faces
Love of
By Elizabeth Brissette, Colleen Fortier, Chloe Jing & Sogn Zamrzla
[
]
Mention philanthropy, and most people think of helping the homeless, feeding
the hungry, and caring for the less fortunate. Those are all admirable causes to support, but we have a population here in our own backyard that is in desperate need of your help today. It’s man’s best friend, the dog.
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She was five months old when we found her with an under bite that would scare any dentist. There were no takers. Her sweet eyes and mellow personality made us fall in love with her despite her flaw, which we found adorable. Miss Missy Milton has been our child for the last four years and she is a tremendous joy in our lives. We can’t imagine life without her. – Ron and Julie Milton, Publishers, SCENE Magazine
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While 54.4 million U.S. households have a dog, 3 million animals are still euthanized in shelters each year. Worse, approximately 80% are healthy or have easily treatable ailments. These animals could have been adopted into a new home after proper care. Given the chance to choose between getting a dog from a shelter or a breeder, wouldn’t the best decision be to save a life? Alex Miller, the CEO of Mercedes Medical and an elected member of the Sarasota Memorial Hospital board, is a great example of someone who deeply understands the value of saving a life. When Alex finally decided to invite a new animal into her life eleven years ago, she started at a local shelter. That’s where she met Samson, a 6-month-old black Lab whose dark eyes stole her heart at first glance. “I’m a Lab girl!” she says excitedly. Four years later when she was working on the board of the Humane Society of Sarasota, the executive director informed her of a cute new poodle pup named Emma. She came from a puppy mill and her initial owners’ miniature poodles didn’t like her, so off Emma went to the Humane Society. Despite being a self-proclaimed Labrador girl, when Alex saw Emma shaking in the corner looking all “adorable and scared,” Samson found himself with a sister. “I would never have gotten a standard poodle but they are really interesting! They are kind of like us with [their] very human-like personalities.”
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Alex isn’t just making a difference by adopting shelter animals — in 2006, she founded The Paws on The Catwalk Luncheon which takes place at the Ritz Carlton every year. This charity event features two- and four-legged models and also benefits the Humane Society. Their 2014 luncheon raised $100,000 to support local animals in need. The Humane Society requires this kind of assistance. At any one time, they house an average of 150 animals that range from completely healthy to heartworm positive to those that have more serious health conditions. Every animal brought in is quarantined and cared for on-site to ensure they lead healthy lives. That level of care requires a significant amount of money. For a non-profit organization like theirs, which is the largest no-kill animal shelter in the area, they rely on private donations, bequests, grants, and charity events like The Paws on the Catwalk Luncheon. The animals don’t just come from people dropping off unwanted pets. The majority of the animals they serve come from our community’s Animal Services. Kennel Manager Becca Kochelek has the weekly task of going out every Thursday to collect animal overflow from local pounds. “We do whatever we can to provide the best treatment for them,” says Kochelek about the animals she brings. For instance, if two dogs are found running together, they stay together for comfort until they’ve been adopted. Ideally, this means that they’d be adopted into the same home, though that’s not always an option. The Humane Society does more than just house and care for unwanted pets. They also work hard to support and educate pet owners, ensuring their pets are never sent back to a shelter. Executive Director Kristen Benson states, “We want people to keep their pets. They’ll call and say their dogs are out of control and want to surrender them, so we help to keep them
December 2015
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manageable and offer them training.” To that end, the Humane Society offers low-cost training and assistance from qualified pet experts. Dogs are trained on the Humane Society’s grounds on an individual basis for an hour a week for a sixweek period. While the Humane Society works with a number of pet professionals, the majority of the people working there are volunteers. “We couldn’t survive without the help of volunteers,” says Benson. There are nearly 250 active volunteers working with the shelter today. In their free time, these generous people walk, feed, and care for the animals. What they do, however, is so much more than day-to-day maintenance. They get to know these animals and their distinctive personalities so well that they serve as matchmakers for potential pet owners. Kochelek explains, “We do not want people shopping for pets…let our staff pick the dog that’s right for you!” What she prefers to happen is for potential pet owners arrive at the shelter open to suggestions and not be locked into a preconceived notion of the specific breed of dog they’re looking for. You might think that you want a Shih Tzu, a Dalmation, or a Beagle, but Kochelek emphasizes that the best dog for you is one whose temperament and personality complements your specific lifestyle. Someone who knows about matching lifestyle and pet ownership is Chris Voelker, the owner of State Street Eating House + Cocktails. Because she’d been working with the Humane Society since 2005 and served as president of their board for two terms, when she decided to adopt a dog, she knew to come to
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the shelter with an open mind and open heart. Despite that, she got interested in one specific dog whose rambunctiousness appealed to her. But a matchmaker instead steered her towards that dog’s sister. The matchmaker was right. That’s how Lucy entered Voelker’s life and has not left her side ever since. “I cannot imagine my life without a dog,” she says. Lucy nuzzles her hand as if in agreement. Voelker is a big proponent of supporting local nonprofits and charitable organizations. “I always felt that when I donate to them,” she says, “I can go right down the street and see where my money is being spent.” The Humane Society does important work but their need for support is immediate and sincere. But it’s not just about sending them money — they’re just as happy to receive pet food donations or a commitment to volunteer your time as they are to receive a check in the mail. And the best gift one can offer is to adopt a shelter animal today. Voelker knows the payoff for this choice as well as anybody: “People who rescue dogs sometimes get rescued themselves.” Lucy agrees. In addition to the Humane Society of Sarasota County (www.HSSC. org | 941.955.4131), there are several local animal shelters from which you can adopt a pet that also need volunteers and donations. These include the Humane Society of Manatee County (w w w. humanemanatee.org | 941.747.8808), Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue (www.nateshonoranimalrescue.org | 941.747.4900), and Cat Depot (www.catdepot.org | 941.366.2404).
December 2015
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Bowlers, Fedoras
Fa s c i n at o r s , t o o
c h a p e a u , B o at e r
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The Largest Circus Model in the World Howard Tibbals and the Tibbals Learning Center at The Ringling By Ryan G. Van Cleave | Photos courtesy of The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
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When asked about what Tibbals likes most about The Ringling, he jokes, “it’s where my models are!” But it’s so much more than that. He firmly believes in education and feels that people who come to The Ringling can learn about the circus for sure, but also about early 1900s advertising, the history of railroads, and small-town life in America.
Though he’d been a fan of the circus since age three, it wasn’t until his teen years that future historian and master model builder Howard Tibbals decided to create his own miniature version of an actual circus. The idea came from an article in a February 1948 issue of Popular Mechanics on circus wagons, and as many young artists have done, Tibbals saw the artistic work of others and said, “I can make something better than that.” He was given his first lathe and jigsaw a year later, and through working on model building with hard maple, those tools helped him develop his own skills and style. It’s also worth noting that just a few months later, the first circus museum was opened in Sarasota, though it would be half a century before Tibbals had his own name attached to it. Prior to that, though, his work would be shown at the World’s Fair in Knoxville, TN in 1982, at the National Geographic Society in Washington, DC in 1985, at The Henry Ford in Dearborn, MI, and at several other venues. Ask Tibbals about his various philanthropic efforts and he shifts the conversation back to his passion: his million-piece 1/16th scale model circus that is the most authentic replica of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus in existence. The period he focused on was the first half of the 20th century, back when the circus had the most tents, the most rail cars, and the largest big tops. This was when a circus coming to town was such an event that businesses and schools closed so everyone could go witness the spectacle. His commitment to accuracy is amazing. The 7,000 tiny folding chairs, the 150 circus wagons, the 200 horses, the 40 elephants — all of these items are built with exacting details that come from historical records, photographs, and Tibbals’ own research. For every wagon he builds, he has 20 or more photographs of it that show the wagon from a variety of angles. And he has long been working with the historic documents and records of the Pullman Company to learn the exact interior that each specific rail car had. Tibbals points out that every single piece of the circus can be packed onto the wagons and loaded onto the train cars, just as the real circuses did every day as they moved to the next town. Tibbals first approached The Ringling with the idea of housing some of his work in 1998, but it wasn’t until 2006 — December 2015
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with generous donations from Tibbals, the state of Florida, and
business actually was 70 miles away from where the circus is
other sources — that the two-story, 30,000 square foot Tibbals
set. But he felt he earned this tiny concession.
Learning Center opened. The main floor houses, among other
When asked about what Tibbals likes most about The Ring-
things, his miniature circus that took 14 months to install on the
ling, he jokes, “it’s where my models are!” But it’s so much
3,800 square foot table. The center also houses circus memo-
more than that. He firmly believes in education and feels that
rabilia from the Wallenda family, the Zacchini Human Cannon-
people who come to The Ringling can learn about the circus
balls, animal trainers Charly Baumann and Gunther Gebel-Wil-
for sure, but also about early 1900s advertising, the history of
liams, and a model of a circus parade by Harold Dunn, who
railroads, and small-town life in America. He adds, “Two of the
was Tibbals’ modeling mentor.
most recognizable names in the world are Coca-Cola and Ring-
Also included in the center are over 6,000 circus posters.
ling, and you can learn an awful lot about the latter right here.”
“They are on such fragile paper,” Tibbals says. “If we didn’t
While Tibbals lives on Longboat Key, he and Janice spend
preserve it, all of it would be gone.” To ensure the best en-
the summer in Knoxville, Tennessee. “I’m out there at The Ring-
vironment for the presentation and safety of the circus arti-
ling two or three days a week,” he says. There’s always more to
facts, a state-of-the-art archive storage facility was built. Tib-
do. He’s currently working on the second of three advertising
bals worked with a company in Raleigh, NC that made special
cars that were attached to passenger trains and went ahead of
LEED lights that were highly efficient and gave off a pure white
the circus to issue tickets, work with newspapers, and do other
light. Even though these bulbs cost about $800 each, Tibbals
types of promotion before the circus finally came to town. The
was pleased with the investment. “It’s one of the best reading
model of a single train car such as this can take hundreds of
places there is. Go see for yourself. It’s beautiful in there.”
hours of work to complete. But he shows no interest in saying
Throughout much of his life, Tibbals owned a wood floor-
enough is enough. “When they put me in the ground,” he ex-
ing company in Tennessee that kept him working long hours,
plains, “there’ll be a half-finished model right there next to me.”
then he would come home and sometimes work until mid-
“It’s important to preserve the past,” Tibbals says. His com-
night. His second wife, Janice, says, “I don’t mind him working
mitment to the preservation of circus history has transformed
so much. I know where he is all the time. He can do his work
The Ringling, and his ongoing generosity is truly inspiring.
in his workshop and I can do mine!” A careful viewer might
Thanks to his efforts, the history of the circus is going to stay
notice that on the side of a water tower in the miniature cir-
alive in Sarasota.
cus, it reads “Tibbals Flooring Company,” though he notes that while all of the other Knoxville business signs are accurate, his
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For more information on The Ringling or the Tibbals Learning Center, please visit www.ringling.org or call (941) 359-5700.
Partnerships and Philanthropy “We are grateful to Peter Crowley and the RE/MAX Alliance Group for helping to launch Goodwill Manasota’s Veterans Services Program back in 2013. Since then, we were able to help more than 1,000 veterans reintegrate back into the civilian workforce. We hope that you will consider making a donation to Goodwill to support our veterans with the services they’ve earned and deserve.” - Bob Rosinsky, President & CEO Goodwill Manasota
EXPERIENCEGOODWILL.ORG
Inspired to Change Lives Dr. Elaine Marieb
By Jake Hartvigsen | Photos by Alex Stafford Photography
Dr. Elaine Marieb has traveled the world. She has hot air ballooned through the Tuscan countryside. Toured the mosques and temples of the Middle East. Sailed the North Sea retracing the routes of ancient Viking conquerors. And sat silently among a troop of gorillas as they nuzzled up to her in the mist on an African hillside. Such are the rewards, after all, one might expect for an internationally-recognized scholar whose career has spanned throughout four decades and who is the acclaimed author of more than a dozen anatomy and physiology textbooks that are used at over 1,000 colleges and universities around the globe. December 2015
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“ That is just what Children First does every day... They provide the tools and resources families need in order to escape poverty and build a better life.”
Yet, relaxing in the living room of her home,
Her generous contribution continues a legacy
the soft-spoken Dr. Marieb says it is not just the
Dr. Marieb started with Children First nearly five
places she has visited or the countless awards
years ago, when she helped found the organiza-
she has received that stand out most in her mind.
tion’s Elaine’s Kids program. Through the program,
Rather, it is the opportunity to change young lives
disadvantaged preschoolers and their families in
through teaching and philanthropy that has given
Sarasota and North Port receive enriched language,
her the greatest joy.
reading and math instruction each summer to better
Perhaps then it should come as no surprise that
prepare them to enter kindergarten in the fall. Many
Dr. Marieb recently made a $1 million gift to Chil-
of the children served by Elaine’s Kids come from
dren First to help the organization provide quality
families where English is not their native language.
early childhood education and supportive services
Dr. Marieb’s recent gift will allow Children First
to low-income children and their families living in
not only to expand its efforts to combat summer
our community. It is the largest single gift in Chil-
learning loss through programs like Elaine’s Kids,
dren First’s 55-year history.
but to bolster the services it offers for children and
“I strongly believe that people can accom-
families year round as well. Children from birth to
plish anything, if only given the chance,” says Dr.
five years old receive early childhood education,
Marieb, who cites her own life as an example. De-
nutrition, and healthcare support, and their families
spite the odds stacked against her as a woman in a
are strengthened through individualized plans for
field dominated by men in the 1960s and 1970s, it
success that include parenting skills, career devel-
was her colleagues and administration at Holyoke
opment and budgeting. All are critical, according to
Community College who gave her the support and
Children First CEO Philip Tavill.
encouragement she needed to achieve success. To-
“Unfortunately, the needs of local children and
day, as Holyoke’s most famous faculty member, the
their families living in poverty are continuing to
school’s science building bears her name.
grow and intensify,” says Tavill. “And many of those
“I have been given some incredible opportuni-
affected are kids younger than five years of age. Un-
ties in my life,” she says. “And that is just what Chil-
less Children First can continue to expand our pro-
dren First does every day for the most vulnerable
grams and services, those young children and their
members of our community. They provide the tools
families may fall through the cracks.”
and resources families need in order to escape pov-
As evidence, Tavill points to statistics such as:
erty and build a better life. Nothing could be more
more than 90% of the families served by Children
important, or more valuable, than that.”
First have a household income below the federal
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December 2015
poverty level of $19,790 for a family of three. Plus,
deserves the opportunity to experience a loving
nearly 11% of the children who attend suffer from
and nurturing environment in which to learn and
some form of physical, emotional or developmen-
grow, and the chance to achieve his or her dreams.
tal disability.
Their families deserve the same as well. That’s what
Most sobering of all is the fact that, despite serving more than 600 low-income children and their
Children First is all about, and I am proud to support them. I hope others will do the same.”
families each year at 13 different sites throughout Sarasota County, Children First has a wait list of over 300 more who qualify to attend but are unable to do so because of a lack of available funding. A community audit recently conducted by Children First revealed four areas of critical need in order to better serve local families. They include 1) extending emotional and behavioral support, 2) increasing individualized attention in the classroom, 3) intensifying family support services, and 4) reaching more children and their families, one classroom at a time. The challenges are significant, but achievable. Dr. Marieb says she is happy to take the lead in helping Children First, and she encourages others to follow. “We are so appreciative to Elaine for everything she has done for our children and families over the years,” says Tavill. “Her support is opening the doors of hope and possibility. Thanks to her recent generous gift, this impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.” “When I see the bright eyes of those children and know that I can make a difference in their lives,
About Children First Established: 1960 Purpose: Early Childhood Education and Family Strengthening Services Children and Families Served: 600 annually, with an additional 300 who remain on a wait list due to funding shortages. 96% of families served live at or below the poverty line. Programs: Early childhood education, nutrition and healthcare support for children ages birth to 5 years old, plus parenting skills, career and education assistance, and budgeting classes for parents Awards: Designated a National Program of Excellence by the National Head Start Association and rated one of the Top 10 Head Start programs in the U.S. Needs: Financial assistance, volunteers, career mentors, donations Info: childrenfirst.net or call (941) 953-3877
it brings a smile to my face,” she says. “Every child
December 2015
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STAR POWER Mary Bensel & Monica Van Buskirk The REAL Van Wezel Stars By Ryan G Van Cleave
M
ary Bensel and Monica Van Buskirk have been working
something when it all comes together, but I’m going to stay around
together to make the Van Wezel a knockout event space
to see its transformation into a larger art area. It’ll be amazing.” She’s
for five years. “Plenty of relationships don’t last that long!”
talking about the intersection of timing and opportunity, where build-
Van Buskirk says with a laugh. She came to Sarasota in 1997 and by
ings like the former G. Wiz are empty, and other spaces along the
2001, thanks to her dynamic personality and sincere love for the arts,
42 acres from Boulevard of the Arts to Payne Terminal surrounding
she was invited to volunteer at the Van Wezel Foundation. Before long,
the Van Wezel are available to be repurposed. Bayfront 20:20 is the
she found herself on the Foundation Board. Since 2012, she’s been
name of the community group developing this plan. The Van Wezel
President and CEO of the Foundation, which means her efforts to se-
Foundation is an active participant in this group. The hope is to break
cure community and financial support for the Van Wezel’s success are
ground sometime in the next few years. For exactly what? That’s not
pretty much around-the-clock. Thanks to her and the Foundation’s ef-
clear, but once the Van Wezel and Sarasota Orchestra finish their
forts, they’ve directed millions of dollars in support of the hall’s capital
own planning efforts, Bayfront 20:20 will be partnering with the city,
improvements, programs and ongoing education efforts.
other businesses and other cultural organizations to create a water-
The two things that most people don’t understand are the Van
front arts area that will be the envy of the Gulf Coast.
Wezel Foundation and the Van Wezel are separate entities — the
Mary Bensel — Van Buskirk’s longtime collaborator and friend —
Foundation is a private non-profit foundation and the Van Wezel it-
is no stranger to the stage. Prior to becoming the Executive Director
self is owned by the city — and that the city is not subsidizing the Van
of the Van Wezel, she was Director of Touring and Sales at Troika,
Wezel. That’s why two of the Foundation’s goals are to find capital to
General Manager at the Barbara A. Mann Performing Arts Hall in Fort
support the Van Wezel and to help educate children. Both of these
Myers, General Manager of the Merriam Theater in Philadelphia, and
are clearly in line with their mission: “To enrich the lives of members
General Manager of the Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia. Add
of the Gulf Coast community, with an emphasis on children, through
in a Bachelor’s degree from Mansfield University in Pennsylvania in
the performing arts while supporting the needs of the Van Wezel —
Speech Theatre and Communications and a Master’s degree in Theatre
the region’s premier performing arts hall.”
from University of Pittsburgh, and it’s clear that she has theater is in her
Van Buskirk comes from New York and has a background in the
blood. “I LOVE what I do,” she says from her office, which is down a
world of big companies such as Godiva Chocolatier where she served
flight of stairs and at the end of a hall from the Van Wezel’s main stage.
as vice president. She earned degrees in economics and marketing from
But Bensel knows how to make things happen both on and off the
Columbia University and CUNY Graduate School. “I’ve met many in-
stage. “When I got here [in 2007],” she explains,” we were looking
credible female executives in my day, but Mary is something else,” she
at a deficit of $1.8 million. And this year? Finance is telling me we’re
says about her work partner. “It’s incredible the deals she puts together.
looking at $1.3 million positive.” That turnaround is largely due to the
Getting Jay Leno here after his final show was such a coup!” Being part
top level of talent she’s been able to bring in. Jay Leno. Josh Groban.
of the team that puts together such amazing shows is what keeps Van
Sheryl Crowe. Sarah McLachlan. Jerry Seinfeld. Daryl Hall & John
Buskirk going. She still remembers the first time she went to Lincoln
Oates. The Book of Mormon. The top-tier shows continue to come
Center, way up in the nosebleed seats, yet when the lights dimmed and
through Sarasota, drawing more and more people to the Van Wezel
the chandeliers went up, “I was mesmerized. It was breathtaking.” And
each season. “This is a highly competitive marketplace,” Bensel ad-
that’s the same experience she hopes every audience member has at
mits. “You wouldn’t believe the quality of offerings this community
every Van Wezel show. “There aren’t really any bad seats in the house,”
has!” Even so, the Van Wezel really sells itself. Van Buskirk adds, “We
she adds, “so the experience is always quite intimate here.”
open up the sunset terrace and people have a cocktail out here and
Don’t ask her about the possibility of her moving away from her work anytime soon. “Great things are happening on the Bayfront. I feel this is a legacy that I’m part of. I might be in a wheelchair or
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watch that beautiful sun go down.” Mary immediately agrees. “Nobody has the view we have!” The pair of whiteboards behind Bensel in her office attest to the
December 2015
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challenge of booking a full schedule of audience-drawing acts. There are names and dates and numbers aplenty, like some kind of high-order MIT-level mathematical equation. The reality is this: you don’t just call up Celine Dion’s agent and have her show up six months later. It all takes exquisite planning, flexibility, and — occasionally — a little financial or relationship-goosing from someone on the Van
Service
Quality
Trust
Wezel Foundation, like they recently did to get four-time Grammy winner Renee Fleming in to perform with the Sarasota Orchestra on January 27. “That’s the first time we’ve been able to write a check to bring a performer in,” Van Buskirk says with pleasure. That event features a special upgrade option where people can attend an After-Party event, including a special Meet-and-Greet with Ms. Fleming. That upgrade also includes premium seating to see The People’s Diva perform Italian opera, classic Broadway, Puccini, Rodgers and Hammerstein, and selections from the American Songbook. Bensel is equally excited about Bayfront 20:20, but “we can’t let the experience here dwindle while we wait for the future to happen.” To that end, she just replaced carpeting
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and revamped the ladies’ bathrooms to help alleviate the lines that often spill out into the hallways. “We can’t get complacent. We have to make everyone’s experience first-rate.” That’s partly the reason she attends the shows in person. Her most recent favorite show she attended? Rick Springfield. She has a photo on her desk of him mugging for the camera with her and she looks positively star-struck. While it sounds like Bensel hobnobs with celebrities all the time, the reality is she’s working hard six or seven days a week. She recently saw a number of shows in Europe
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ing, year-round work to put together a winMary!” says Van Buskirk. No matter what level of talent comes onto the Van Wezel stage — singers, orchestra, dance, jazz, comedy, Broadway, theater — it’s clear that the real stars of the show are these two tremendously talented and devoted women. Take a bow, ladies. You deserve it.
Change
Knife & Fork.
begins with y o ur
Yo u ’ re Invited to
D in in g For a Difference ! How Does it Work? No gala tickets. No Black Tie attire. Simply enjoy dinner at a Dining For A Difference participating restaurant on Tuesday, January 12th and a portion of the proceeds from your food and beverage purchases will help fund grants to local charities. When:
Tuesday ~ January 12, 2016
Where: Any of the outstanding area restaurants listed below.
Visit our Facebook page for an updated list of restaurants.
Who:
Anyone and everyone who loves great food and supporting great causes!
Parties of 15+ contact Sarah Murphy at Dining4Difference@gmail.com for more information.
For More Information: Visit DesigningDaughtersSarasota.com
or www.facebook.com/DesigningDaughters Thank you to our participating restaurants:
Cafe Amici Michael’s On East
Thank you to our participating sponsors:
Concept & Design Courtesy of: Grapevine Communications Advertising Agency ~ grapeinc.com
Healthy Values By Steven J. Smith | Photo by Nancy Guth
Jim and Alice Padilla were both born in Detroit. Jim joined the Ford Motor Company in 1966, starting as a quality-control engineer. Rising through the ranks, he became group vice president for global manufacturing and quality and president of North and South America operations before stepping up to the rank of President and Chief Operating Officer of the company. He retired in June of 2006. The very next month, he and Alice moved to Sarasota. Since moving to Sarasota, Jim and Alice have
face, hospital leadership and the need to make pa-
searched for a vehicle to give back to the communi-
tients’ experiences there positive. “The whole staff
ty they have embraced — and they recently found
was absolutely outstanding,” Alice said. “I liked ev-
one, filling an important need for Sarasota Memori-
erything I was seeing there. It made sense to get
al Healthcare Foundation.
involved with helping them in any way we could.”
In 2012, the couple made a major donation that
Since 1976, Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Founda-
funded two connector hallways linking buildings
tion has made a major impact on our community
in Sarasota Memorial Hospital’s existing hospital
raising more than $80 million and granting more
complex to the multimillion dollar courtyard tower,
than $60 million to support healthcare initiatives
which houses facilities for cardiac, orthopedic, labor
in the areas of research, education, technology, fa-
& delivery, NICU, and private rooms for patients.
cilities, and patient care. The Foundation not only grants to the Hospital, but also to other healthcare
“We examined what we could do to add value in
organizations that improve healthcare and wellness
the Sarasota area,” Jim said. “When Alice broke her
in the community.
hip three years ago and needed a hip replacement, she received such excellent care at Sarasota Me-
With plans to develop an Internal Medicine Resi-
morial Hospital. This personal experience taught us
dency Program for newly graduated doctors, which
that we should prioritize healthcare because it is
will make Sarasota Memorial a nationally recognized
not only important to us, but to countless others
teaching hospital, its new Level II Trauma Center,
who will soon require the expertise and care Sara-
and its new Rehabilitation Facility, generous donors
sota Memorial provides. It ignited our passion to
to the Foundation such as Jim and Alice Padilla are
support Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation.
vitally important to ensure that Sarasota Memorial
What could be more important than participating in
continues to provide the community with quality pa-
and giving back to our community?”
tient care and high standards for excellence.
Jim added during Alice’s hospital stay he was very
The Padillas have been married 47 years and boast
impressed with SMH’s emphasis on patient inter-
three children and four grandchildren. Retirement,
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December 2015
however, does not mean slowing down one bit.
why we are able to continue supporting excellence
The couple said they would continue looking into
in healthcare in all its various forms. We are so
a variety of philanthropic ways to help the Sarasota
blessed to have Foundation supporters such as the
community. “We’ve chaired many foundations and
Padillas in our community,” said Alexandra Quarles,
charities,” Alice added. “We’ve supported cancer
CEO, President, and Trustee of Sarasota Memorial
& juvenile diabetes research, for example, and we
Healthcare Foundation.
adopted an orphanage in Brazil. The world is a big neighborhood, but Sarasota is our home.”
To learn more about how you can help support the efforts of Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Founda-
“People like Jim and Alice Padilla are the reason
tion, call 941.917.1286 or visit www.smhf.org.
December 2015
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Giving
Passionate
Zuheir & Susan Sofia By Steven J. Smith | Photo by Nancy Guth
uheir and Susan Sofia are perfect examples of people who
have channeled the fruits of their success to the betterment of their community. Nearly
penniless, Zuheir came to the U.S. in 1965 from Lebanon as an international student, graduating in 1969 from Western Kentucky University with a bachelor’s degree in economics and business administration. After he had built a phenomenally successful career in banking, he and his wife Susan made a point of giving back to communities in which they have lived. The Sofias moved to Sarasota full time in 2008 from Columbus, Ohio. They connected with Florida after a number of business trips and vacations — particularly to the greater Sarasota area. “We found Sarasota was the place we really liked best to put down roots,” Zuheir said. “The culture, the topnotch educational institutions, the relaxing atmosphere and the wonderful people made it an easy decision for us.” Zuheir is chairman, president and CEO of Business Bank of Florida, Corp. and is a director of Florida Business Bank. He is also the chairman of Sofia & Company, Inc., an investment-banking firm. Prior to forming his own company in 1998, he was president, CEO, and director of Huntington Bancshares, Inc., a $70 billion bank holding company. Susan is a graduate of Salem College and was chair of the board of The Ohio Arts Council. She served on the Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board and the Governor’s Residence and Heritage Garden Foundation Board. Not long after arriving in Sarasota, the couple found a partner for their philanthropic pursuits in the Gulf Coast Community Foundation and Senior Vice President for Philanthropy Veronica Brady. “We worked closely with Veronica and she gave us a wonderful overview of the arts and cultural scene, which is one of our focuses,” Susan said. “She also was able to give us specific ideas of what the needs were in human services in this community and what programs are effective. It’s been a very important partnership for us, because she understands our vision of philanthropy and they are able to help us.” Susan added Gulf Coast’s connection has led her to take a position on the board of the Sarasota Orchestra. “I’m on the finance committee and the development committee there,” she said. “It’s a real joy to be on that board. When I come to meetings, everyone just gets in the flow. They’re so committed to the work of the orchestra, which is growing so quickly. We also have seven youth orchestras, which blows my mind. We have a huge education outreach program at Sarasota Orchestra in Sarasota and Manatee counties, as well as the Sarasota Music Festival, which is an educational program for students from all over. There’s something exciting going on every day at that place.”
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Susan and Zuheir have also forged relationships with All Faiths Food Bank, the YMCA and a scholarship program at Ringling College of Art and Design — all through Gulf Coast. “We established a donor-advised fund with the Gulf Coast Community Foundation,” Zuheir said. “Based on our interests, we can channel through that fund our financial support to these organizations as well as others. In the future we will hopefully find time to volunteer more of our time to them.” Zuheir would also like to devote philanthropic activity to improving international education at the elementary, middle school, high school and college levels both here and abroad. “If you look overseas to those horrible images we see every day that challenge our minds and hearts, I see in stark detail how much we don’t know and how much we don’t understand about the lack of educational opportunities in other countries,” he said. “And I think it would be wonderful to establish a global vision for those people. We really are living in a global environment and I would love to find a vehicle here in Sarasota that can help them.” Zuheir added he would support programs that would send students overseas to see first hand the challenges facing their peers there. He also wants to see American students learning foreign languages. “A third program would be setting up an international magazine in which articles could depict what’s going on in the world,” he said. “I’d also like to bring international students here, so we could eliminate the perceived barrier that exists between our country and foreign countries. We want to leave an impact here the way we have done in other places. And I believe we can do that.” December 2015
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Scenes from an Interview
Margaret Barbieri By Gus Mollasis
With a regal yet humble persona, Margaret Barbieri is as polished as the fine Carrara marble her family in Italy made their living from – the same place Michelangelo got the marble to create his masterpieces. This world-renowned former Principal Dancer with The Royal Ballet contributes greatly to the success and growth of Sarasota Ballet and just happens to work a stone’s throw away from the replica of Michelangelo’s David that graces The Ringling Museum Courtyard. She has carved out a solid and fascinating path for herself, grateful each step of the way to the many mentors who helped choreograph her life’s stage. At the ripe old age of 20, she danced Giselle for The Royal Ballet, earning her high praise and a special reputation as a romantic ballerina. From that performance, her star was born as she danced virtually every major role in The Royal Ballet repertoire and had roles created just for her. Today, as the Assistant Director of Sarasota Ballet, Margaret works in tandem with her husband, Sarasota Ballet Director Iain Webb, forming a dynamic team that continues to take the Ballet in groundbreaking directions. Appreciative. Hardworking. Modest. With a sense of humor and self, she is always on point and knows exactly what dance has meant to her – and that is everything. Hers has been a life filled with celebrated performances accompanied by iconic performers, but it would all mean nothing if she didn’t love it all so much. That is Margaret’s secret today as it was then. She is truly passionate about the art of ballet. As we sat down in her office, I found myself fascinated by her exuberance for the art form that has helped her dance her way through life, anxiously waiting to hear more, as we took a look at some incredible scenes from an interview of her life. Where were you born? Durban, South Africa. My parents were Italian. Both sides of the family were in the marble business getting their marble from Carrara, in the Tuscany region, the same place where Michelangelo got the marble for his sculptures. Describe the first time you remember dancing as a child. My mother was a worrier. As a child, I would wake up feeling sick and nauseous, so my mother had me checked out by a doctor. He advised us that what I needed was exercise and to mix with children my age. So what was prescribed were some ballet lessons. My mother had never heard of this, but after investigating, she found a dancing school I could attend. I was quiet, shy, and not very talkative as a child, but I do remember immediately feeling that
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dancing was a wonderful form of release for me. I felt, even at the age of five, this was something that I could do and something I really loved. Were your parents involved in the arts? No, not all. My dad was in the marble business. My mother was a homemaker who made beautiful dresses including ballet dresses for me. My mother sent a film of me dancing to her parents, but didn’t actually want to admit that I was taking lessons. When my mother was younger, she wanted to be an actress, but her family thought it wasn’t a lady-like thing to be on the stage. She wasn’t allowed to pursue that dream. In a way, that’s why she opened all the doors for me. I had acting, singing, tap and ballet lessons.
Margaret, age 4
Margaret, age 9
When did you know that you had a talent for dance? I’ve never thought myself to be very good. I’m always striving to be something better. I don’t ever recall thinking that I was pretty hot stuff. I remember being validated by others. For example, people from England would come over and see me dancing, and some would say I was talented and that I should go to England and to The Royal Ballet School.
Describe what your love of dance means to you. I think it has to stem from your actual love of the art form. Not just I want to dance; I want to move; I want to move like a ballerina; I want to be a ballerina. It is an actual love of the art form. I’m a strong believer that the art of ballet does not exist on its own because it exists with the music. I think acting is also a huge part of it. I was fortunate to see great acting in London from the companies there and learn from that.
What was the first time you ever attended a ballet and what impact did it have on you? The first time really was when The Royal Ballet Company came to South Africa in 1959. I remember staying at the stage door trying to get autographs. I was young and unaware of the arduous schedule of two show days the dancers had, having to rush back and eat, so I was disappointed when after their show, they rushed by and didn’t sign autographs for me. It was something I’ve always remembered throughout my entire career, so if people ever stopped me at the stage door, I stayed behind to sign autographs.
How do you describe what dance is? That’s a hard one. It’s movement that’s an expression of the music. Whether it is story ballet or an abstract ballet, it’s always with the music for me. When doing abstract ballets, the best choreographers have this organic feel to their movement and that’s the best and most enjoyable kind of choreography to dance.
Who was the mentor or teacher that made the biggest difference in you becoming a dancer? In my town of Durban, it was as though you belonged to a studio. I had two very good teachers – Iris Manning and Brownie Sutton. Brownie was instrumental in working on my technique. Iris was the more artistic, musical one and she instilled in me the love, passion and musicality of dance. They were a lovely combination who gave me every different side of dance. I received private lessons, which is very good for a young dancer to have, and I learned a lot from the both of them. They encouraged me and believed in my talent.
How soon do you know if someone has that special something to be a great dancer? What you can always see almost immediately is if the dancer has got that passion and that presence. They have a way they perform it. They are not just executing steps. They’re musical and have a sense of artistic sensibility. To be honest, I haven’t always been correct. You make some mistakes. Nine of out ten times I can walk into an audition and I can look around as the dancers are warming up and know who I’m going to be watching closely, and I know the ones I won’t be watching as closely. Sometimes someone who doesn’t impress in the first part of class will impress you as they move from the bar to the center. They come to life. Equally, sometimes someone who was great in the class can be boring as hell on stage. December 2015
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Giselle
The Two Pigeons
When dancers enter the Margaret Barbieri Conservatory (Sarasota Ballet’s pre-professional program), the one thing you expect from all of them is… It’s not one thing. Let’s face it. Technique is important, but what I’m looking for is potential. I’m looking for those who have the potential to rise and become a company and professional dancer. I’m looking for technique, performance and musicality. When dancers leave the Margaret Barbieri Conservatory, I hope they have learned… The love of dance, love of performance and that they are taking away with them everything they have learned and achieved. One would hope they are ready to enter into a company, but some may still require a little further training. I have seen principals in companies who have had absolutely everything, but they don’t have that passion, and their careers are very short lived because the work is too hard and they give up. What are the essential ingredients necessary in maintaining the perseverance to maintain their body and soul for their art? You have to have the physique. There is no doubt about that. In today’s world, you have to really be careful. Some young people do crazy things to be in the right shape – models for example – and we don’t want that. At the same point, they have to know that they have to have a certain aesthetic look and line to their dancing. It requires a lot of taking care of your body and sensible eating is of the utmost importance. No crazy diets. Just sensible eating. Today there is pilates and yoga to help maintain and condition the
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body, which also may help when recovering from an injury. You must also develop your brain and your artistic sensibilities. Don’t just live in a ballet world. You’ve got to go to concerts, theater and art galleries and see what’s out there because everything is part of your development for your career and your life. I have to thank my first director, John Field, for this. I was a young 18-year-old who hadn’t been living in England that long and I didn’t know very much of what was going on except for the ballet world. He would sit around the canteen and talk about an exhibition he saw at a gallery, or a wonderful play he went to the night before, or a concert by Shostakovich. I would look up all these things at the library. This is years before the Internet (laughing). He really instigated my love of all the arts and made me aware of them. He did so much for me. Touring with The Royal Ballet, tell us about how great a joy it was and how demanding it was for you. I started touring in the mid-sixties. Touring back then was very harsh and not what it is today in regards to money, accommodations and schedules. We used to do 14 weeks on the trot, eight performances a week. We would come back to London and do a month or two of rehearsals and then we were off again on a 14- or 15-week tour. Hard work but an amazing opportunity. Because I was on tour, I got many more opportunities than my contemporaries who were at Covent Garden doing three shows a week. I got to dance Giselle at Covent Garden for the first time when I was 20 years old. Having done it, I would sometimes do four Giselles in a week plus everything else. I would be in the call one night and a principal another night. I was just dancing all the time. Touring was hard because in those
days theaters did not have rehearsal studios. We would arrive on a Monday and we would have to go in search of the studio they hired. It could be freezing cold, with broken windowpanes and snow coming in, and there we were, all dressed up and trying to do a warm up. Then we go to the theater, do a quick placing call, and are on the stage that night. As for accommodations, because of how little we were paid, we’d go for the “theatrical digs.” The good ones were known by the company members who had been traveling for years. How we got accommodations was the company manager would advertise in the local paper weeks before we arrived. The manager had all the response letters in a file in the office. We would read through the letters and say, “Oh that person’s got headed notepaper. That might be quite nice.” Or, “Oh, I like her handwriting. She might be a nice person to stay with.” You took pot luck. Sometimes you struck gold, sometimes you did not. The joy was in the performance. You learned so much with repetitive performing and being able to see the principals perform.
Swanhilda in Copellia
Please tell us why these artists were great and what you learned from them. Sir Fredrick Ashton: Incredible choreographer and great artist. I am privileged and honored that I can stage his ballets. He had a huge impact on my career.
cause the company and the school worked in the same building. There was a glass window and I would look in on rehearsals. He was a great artist and dancer who had so much to offer everybody. His productions were wonderful.
Sir Kenneth MacMillan The same. His ballets are phenomenal and his characters are very real especially in big productions like Romeo and Juliet. He really gets to the heart of the character. As he would say, “You don’t have to add anything on to my choreography. My choreography tells the story.”
The first thing that comes into your heart when you think of the following: Two Pigeons Fortunate to be able to dance both lead roles. Not at the same time (laughing). It’s a fabulous heartwarming and moving ballet that also has a lot of gusto to it.
Dame Ninette De Valois She was one of the main mentors in my life and career. She was my first teacher at The Royal Ballet School and was instrumental in guiding me throughout my career into my first Giselle and so many firsts. When I retired, she helped guide me into teaching and into the staging of ballets. She’s been with me throughout my entire career to the point where she was there with me five days after I had my son Jason. These two ladies, Dame Ninette De Valois and Dame Alicia Markova, as well as my first director John Field, and my next director Sir Peter Wright, had the greatest influence on me. They made my career.
Giselle That was my lucky break. At that time, it was a rare occasion to be in the corps de ballet so to do Giselle at Covent Garden at the age of 20 is pretty phenomenal. I had danced Giselle touring around the schools and small towns as part of an educational program. It was a minor production and based on the romantic ballet. My director, John Field, had come to see me perform and afterwards was very complimentary telling me that I would dance Giselle one day. I remember thinking that was very kind, but I was pretty sure it would never happen. About a year later, it came into the repertoire and low and behold there is my name on the cast list in brackets. In brackets means you’re not going to do it, but you should be there to learn it. Still it was quite an honor to be in the corps de ballet, a girl only two or three years in the company. It was a bit difficult to go into those rehearsals. There were four principals all ahead of me doing it so I was in the back. For some of it, I just sat down and tried to learn. John Field came in one day and told me to get up and do it. I felt very much in the way, but I did it because he told me
Rudolf Nureyev A huge impact on everybody’s career. When he arrived in England, I had only just arrived. He was sensational. He loved young dancers and was always looking around for talent. If he saw somebody struggling with something, he would come over and help you. When I was in the school, I remember creeping upstairs into one of the studios, be-
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Margaret & Iain’s wedding
Finish the following sentences: To be a great ballerina you must…
Love to dance, love the art form and be prepared to work hard.
The greatest dancer I have ever seen is... There have been too many. Of course I adored Dame Margot Fonteyn. She was wonderful with me as my career grew and we even shared a room. To have Dame Margot do my hair or for me do her hair – what a privilege! And of course Dame Alicia Markova. I never saw her dance, but she was my mentor. At a time in my career when things weren’t going well for me and I was considering giving up, and all dancers have those times, she sent a message to me via a mutual friend saying, “Don’t give up. The tides will change.” And low and behold they did. I’ve never forgotten that. I could have left and become a nurse or done something else. A few years down the road, we did work together, and from that point on, she was very much in our family’s life.
to. And then there was a situation. One of the principals had to have major surgery and we knew that she wasn’t going to do the show. There was a lot of talk as to who would replace her. So on a Tuesday, I was in my peasant costume in the corps de ballet for Giselle, when John Field told me to get out of my costume and come out front. I thought to myself, “Oh my God, I’m not good enough to even be a peasant now.” I thought I was being demoted. Instead, as I went out to the front, he said, “You’re going to dance Giselle at the Saturday matinee.” This was Tuesday, so we rehearsed like crazy Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Everyone asked me if I was nervous. The truth is I was so tired, and had to work so hard, I didn’t have time for nerves. And I think that’s what got me through it. I think I was more nervous for the second performance. That was my big break. After the performance, John Field came to my dressing room, told me to get out of my costume and come with him to the hospital to see Dame Ninette de Valois so I could go say thank you to her. Apparently she was the one who said that young, talented dancers should do that performance. Checkmate A fantastic role to do. It’s wonderful to be evil on stage. Dying Swan and Dragonfly: Wonderful solos and Dame Ninette coached me in both of those. If you could perform in one last ballet what would it be? I always said that I wished Matthew Bourne was choreographing when I was in the middle of my career because he’s very theatrical. I would have liked to have done Kenneth
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Iain Webb is a great artist because… He was a great dancer because he had this phenomenal elevation. He has great acting skills and an understanding of the depth of the roles and being able to portray them. He has huge passion and love for the art form, which is also the reason he’s able to devise the ballets for the repertoire and why he’s able to work ridiculous hours to make this company what it is. He never gets a break.
The Sarasota Ballet is important because… It’s given something to the city and the city has given something back to the ballet. It’s amazing that a reasonably small city such as Sarasota has all these fantastic art forms in it.
I was a great dancer because… I don’t look back at myself and say that I was a great ballerina. I don’t do that. When I see photographs, I say yes, I was okay, but when I see film of myself, I’m never satisfied with it and think I thought I was better than that.
MacMillan’s Manon, but it wasn’t in our repertoire. Tell me about how you met your husband, Sarasota Ballet Director Iain Webb. I always blame this teacher, Christine Anthony (laughing). I noticed Iain when he came into the company and saw that he had a lot of talent and potential as dancer, but he seemed quite moody. And then I saw him working with Christine and I thought he was totally motivated and really working for Christine, laughing, and not as moody. When Christine, who was a
Margaret & son Jason
guest teacher, left, she told me, “Maggie keep an eye on him and make sure he works.” So that’s what I would do. I would see him and say, “Christine told me to keep an eye on you and make sure you’re working.” That’s how we started chatting. Tell me about working together, then and now. Back then it was different because I was the principal and he was in the corps de ballet and that was hugely frowned upon. He was the one who kind of got the stick for that. They weren’t kind to him at first. Things changed once it became apparent that we were serious and not a passing thing. The thing that I always thought about in our relationship was that in those days, he was always very proud of my successes. I had been in a relationship where that wasn’t so. It’s very difficult to be in a relationship like that where you have to temper your excitement for your performance because it may upset the other person. To have someone proud of you and excited for your successes was kind of special for me. When the tables became more even, we both had mutual respect and happiness for each other. So when he got this position here, I could support him in what he’s doing and be very proud of him. That’s why I didn’t come out here initially. I came to stage ballets. It was really about Iain being the ballet director and I was just in the background being supportive. He’s always been so tremendous with me and I have really appreciated it. What is it about this town that brings you joy? First, it’s the weather (laughing). But really, it’s a beautiful area with the water and the incredible arts. I love London, which feels more like my home to me than South Africa. What I miss and feel is that we need more companies coming in here, being able to have more access to all other arts. As the Assistant Director of Sarasota Ballet, what is the most fulfilling and most challenging part of your job? Two things. I love to see the ballets come to life. And
Margaret & Mikhail Baryshnikov in 1973
most especially, I love to see the dancers develop and become fantastic artists. The most challenging is juggling it all – life, work, everything and keeping everybody happy. What exciting new projects are on the horizon for Sarasota Ballet and ballet in general? It’s always ongoing development and growth because alongside recreations of old ballets, you have new designs and sets. You have new ideas and things that weren’t available back when it was choreographed. You have new ballets being created and new works. You may have a choreographer or someone who is coming to stage a ballet and working with dancers. It’s always development and growth both for the dancers and the company. It never stops. You take Balanchine’s ballets, which are now being performed worldwide and in Russia. Twenty years ago, you wouldn’t think that his ballets would be performed by Russian ballet dancers, but they are. What is your advice to young students on pursuing a career as a dancer? It is a passion. Wrongly or rightly when people ask me, what it’s like to be a ballerina, I tell them you can’t do it unless you love it. Don’t do it. Give up unless you truly love it and are absolutely prepared to work very hard, because quite honestly, it’s a very hard life, with lots of hard work and you have to have this passion and this love of dancing. If you could do it all again would you? And if not what would you do differently? I would do it again. I wouldn’t change a thing. I think I’ve been very fortunate. How do you want to be remembered? I want to be remembered for the person, dancer and teacher that I am. December 2015
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EDUCATION
DraMature – Senior Resident Acting Troupe
The Manatee Players, Inc. and the Manatee Performing Arts Center By Ryan G. Van Cleave
For nearly 70 years, The Manatee Players, Inc. has been a force for promoting live theater in the region. Now that they’ve got the relatively new Manatee Performing Arts Center — a 36,000 square foot building that’s part of the Bradenton Riverwalk — as a venue, they’re able to do more than ever before. And that includes the realm of outreach and education. The newest addition to their efforts is the Action through
about how to get involved in supporting animals in need,
Acting program, which provides an objective voice for social-
and letting people know what resources were available. “If
ly relevant issues through live theater productions, explains
an audience member has a neighbor who can no longer
Janene Amick, Executive Director of the Manatee Perform-
feed their pet,” explains, Amick, “they’ll now know that the
ing Arts Center. For example, Bark ran from October 22 to
Humane Society can help. They have a mechanism in place
November 8, and was presented in collaboration with the
to address that issue versus allowing that neighbor to give up
Humane Society of Manatee County. Why did that nonprofit
and drop the dog off at a shelter. The last thing they want is
partner to present this musical about the story of life from a
for people to be giving up their pets.”
dog’s point of view? That’s exactly the point of the program
Early in the Action through Acting series, they presented
— to offer a forum for the nonprofit to deliver information
Boys Next Door in partnership with Easter Seals Southwest
and start important conversations. Each evening of the pro-
Florida. The message there was about the importance of
duction, actual adoptable dogs and cats were brought to the
group homes. The upcoming productions include The Mir-
theater to interact with audience members. Volunteers from
acle Worker (with Lighthouse of Manasota Diary of Anne
the Humane Society were there, too, sharing information
Frank (with the Florida Holocaust Museum), Yank: The Mu-
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“I regard the theatre as the greatest of art forms, the most immediate way in which a human being can share with another the sense of what it is to be a human being.” – Oscar Wilde
sical (with Equality Florida), and To Kill a Mockingbird Manasota Bar Association “This is our first time running the Action through Acting series, but we plan to continue it next year with a focus on other issues such as domestic violence and child endangerment,” says Amick. She’s pleased that the issues the series is addressing through these partnerships with nonprofits are those combating the local community. “We’re not looking to create polarizing discussions, but rather provide an opportunity for these key concerns to be addressed and talked about objectively.” The series has been a success in how it provides area nonprofits a way to reach out to new groups of individuals and tell the story of what they do. Part of telling that story is through filmed roundtable discussions that air for six weeks prior to production. The productions themselves are worth the price of admission — the social component to each one simply makes it a more meaningful, lasting event. But more is going on at the Manatee Performing Arts Center, such as the formation of DraMature, the senior resident acting troupe that is just starting to come out of its incubation stage. This acting group, set to begin its second year, offers individuals 55+ the opportunity to learn a skill set, polish an old one, and find a way to get people back into theater. They serve as ambassadors for the world of drama. “We have lots of requests for entertainment at various functions throughout the calendar year, but so many of those occur during the day,” says Amick. “A lot of our actors who participate in the main groups have full-time work or they’re students — they can’t take time off during the day. But this group can meet those needs.” They tell stories through skits or improv. And two times a year, they put on their own production, which is a variety show of sorts, a collaborative agenda ranging from comedy to original dramatic works to improv to acting out famous scenes.” Right now, the group has just over thirty members, but once the snowbirds return in force, that number will climb and climb. There’s no charge to participate, yet what most members enjoy is that they don’t have to memorize anything — they can be “on book,” meaning that they read directly from a script while on stage. But don’t think that means they aren’t in full costume and performing to the best of their ability! Amick notes that the main lobby and two corridor wings are used as art galleries. They don’t just put up random art either, but instead really look at the productions occurring in the main stage, Stone Hall, or the Bradenton Kiwanis Theater, and reach out to local/regional artists whose work speaks to the same themes. “When we did The Secret Garden,” Amick says, “we had art from a gentleman who did castings of fire ant nests. We presented them in the corner of the gallery and included information on how the castings were done.” For that same production,
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they also had watercolors of rainforests, backyard lilies, and ponds. When they ran Cats, they used soft sculptures of animals that were almost life-size. With Bark, animal portraits filled the lobby.” The Manatee Performing Arts Center is all about engagement. With first-rate shows, opportunities for people to interact and learn, connections to local issues and someone like Amick running the show, the sky’s the limit. For more information about Manatee Performing Arts Center, please visit www.manateeperformingartscenter.com or call 941.748.5875.
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Behind the Scene
Society Maven Debbi Benedict Gives the Latest Scoop Well, here it is my dear Poodle, my final social column for Scene. As you read in my September column, I am off on a wonderful adventure that will concentrate on edible landscaping and living a much simpler homesteading life, with much less wearing of St. John suits and silk taffeta princess ball gowns. But for right this minute, here are the December social events that are not to be missed! Marking the beginning of La Musica’s 30th Anniversary Season, Sonata a Due has a new venue from which to look ahead to the coming year and to do so in a magnificent and classic holiday setting. Bright red poinsettias, flickering candles, shimmering white lights, and statuesque Christmas trees will all be tying together the past, present, and future. Where is this magical place? Well, Michael’s On East ballroom, of course! The move from the Charles Ringling Mansion to Michael’s ballroom makes me a tad sad because the mansion is such a beautiful, intimate space, but La Musica has outgrown it and had to make a change. I am sure it will still have that extraordinary quality that only Sally Faron, as executive director, and Janet Hunter, as chair, can produce. They are quite a formidable team! One of the things I love about this event is that there is no silent or live auction – yay! You just get to enjoy the brilliant violin and piano sonatas of the talented Federico Agostini and Derek Han. Then it is off to dinner and wonderful conversation, like at a real dinner party! It is all so very civilized. Scene Magazine is the top sponsor. The JFCS Gala – Reflections: Celebrating 30 Years with a Caring Community, has always been one of my favorite galas of the season. Held at the Ritz-Carlton and chaired by Debbie Haspel and Susan Mallitz, the evening’s highlight is the performance of the full Sarasota Orchestra with conductor, Dirk Meyer. Last year they tried to have dancing during the orchestra performance and I felt it took away some of the magic, so this year they are going back to just the performance, followed by dancing to John Miller’s Jazz Ensemble. A much better choice! I loved how the invitation really mirrors the theme of “reflections”. The cover is shimmering shades of white moonlight, golden city lights, and silky blue waters glowing in the evening reflections. It’s a really pretty invitation. The Orchestra Sponsor is, as always, Bea Friedman, followed by the Diamond Sponsors, Gerri Aaron, Margie and Chuck Barancik, Isermann Family Foundation, Ora and Joe Mendels, Clare and Rich Segall, and Scene Magazine.
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The invitation for NYE@Selby, or the New Year’s Eve Celebration at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens for those less hip, looks like it is from an inspired evening in the
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and it doesn’t end there, but who knows what surprises he has up his stylish sleeve. The chairs are Matt, Lisa, and Emily Walsh and the DJ is DJ Fitz Otis. To get you in the holiday spirit, The Florida Center for Early Childhood’s Festival
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trees illuminating the walls and the colors of soft greens, pinks and purple Northern Lights will punctuate the décor. Melissa Dunlap is the chair and honorary chairs are George
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AFP – Association of Fundraising Professionals PODi – Print on Demand Initiative
Brew and Q party at your place with Nancy’s BBQ and a DJ, and a Northern Lights 7-day cruise for two on Holland America Line. Clint Wiley’s None Other Band will provide the dance music. Top sponsors are Dunlap
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will keep the bidding fast and furious for items such as renowned artist Jack Dowd’s
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The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce PAF – Printing Association of Florida
is always the highlight of this event and
Andy Warhol sculpture, an exclusive tasting Higher Education
Nonprofit
and Sylvia Zimmerman. A big live auction
& Moran, Caldwell Trust Company, Gulf Coast
Community
Foundation,
Publix
Supermarkets Charities, CAE Healthcare, FPRA – Florida Public Relations Assoc. XEROX – Premier Partner
Fifth Third Bank, KSC Advertising & Public
Relations, and Dr. and Mrs. Eddy Regnier. For a first time event, Florida State University College of Medicine’s Jazz Brunch
The Sarasota Garden Club Presents
on the Bay is starting at the top! But that is what is expected from uber chair, Renee Hamad. The event will be at Ca d’Zan on the Ringling Museum campus with catering by Michael’s On East. They are celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Sarasota campus of the College of Medicine. Heidi Godman will emcee and FSU President John Thrasher will be speaking, along with Dr. J. Fogarty, Dean of the FSU College of Medicine, and Dr. Bruce Berg, founding Dean of the Sarasota Regional Campus. Dr. Joseph Scarano and his Jazz Ensemble will play and this being a FSU event, you can bet there will be lots of garnet and gold, including a special memento to take home. Sponsors are Sarasota Memorial Health Care System, ElShahawy Family Foundation/Admiral Travel,
Friday, February 12, 2016 | 11 AM – 2 PM Luncheon featuring Guest Speaker Fashion Designer/Artist Sigrid Olsen and fashions by Dillard’s at University Town Center The Hyatt Regency Ballroom, 1000 Boulevard of the Arts Admission: $45
Dr. Kathleen Kennedy, Mark Famiglio, and Gulf Coast Community Foundation. Have you ever attended a Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe event? If not, you
For reservations call 941.955.0875 or visit The Sarasota Garden Club at 1131 Blvd. of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236 www.SarasotaGardenClub.org
simply can’t picture the energy, the style, and the warmth of this organization until you’ve experienced it! They will definitely have
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artistic director, will serve as emcee. From what I am told, this is going to be a traditional New Year’s party, with refreshments and merriment, but guests will dance their way into 2016 with the hottest soul and pop tunes, courtesy of the incredible WBTT musicians and singers. Now THAT is a special evening. Morton’s Gourmet Market is catering. There will be gourmet cheeses and pâtés, a hot
“Our Family welcomes you!”
The Misantone family, from left: Stella, Barbara, Dasher (dog), Brooke (standing), Francis & Alexandra
carving station with beef tenderloin and turkey breast, assorted desserts and coffee, and a champagne toast at midnight. Academy-award winning actress, Marlee Matlin is the featured speaker at the Jewish Federation’s Women’s Day Luncheon at Michael’s On East, with Lynn Carvel and Susi Steenbarger as chairs. I am sure you remember Marlee in Children of a Lesser God for which she won the Oscar. She became deaf at age 18 months, but feels
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there are no obstacles in life, only challenges to overcome. Her topic will be “Living Generously”. I am told the lunch will feature the new “grain bowls”, which is a new item on the Michael’s menu. I haven’t tried one yet, so it should be interesting, and is a bold choice. I commend whoever made that selection. Isn’t it always a treat to have something different served than the tradition salad, which is always good, but still a traditional choice. Bravo on going out of the
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box. Lead Sponsor is Tableseide Restaurant Group, followed by the Mazur Family Fund. Scene Magazine is the media sponsor. A laugh riot is sure to ensue at the Humane Society of Sarasota County’s Hot Dogs and Cool Cats Goes Wild, Laugh Your Paws off Gala at the Ritz-Carlton, because hosts Les
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well, you have just taken the evening over the top and to a brand new laugh-a-minute level! There will be a live auction for trips and other experiences. Chairs are Allison Schaul & John Chapman, with Chris Voelker, as honorary chair. Top sponsors are Sign & Glide, BMO Private Bank, State Street Eating House + Cocktails, Bayside Pet Resort, Synovus Bank, and Syprett, Meshad, Resnick, Lieb, Dumbaugh, Jones, Krotec, & Westheimer. Do you want to make a wide-eyed child shiver with delight? Then sashay over to Michael’s On East for Make-A-Wish’s Christmas in Candyland to partake in all the food, fun, and fantasy for the little ones. Believe me when I say that Phil Mancini knocks himself out for this event. You will be impressed! Have you ever seen snow in Michael’s atrium? I don’t think I am giving
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December 2015
be a little of the white stuff falling upon your
arrival.
Chairs
Bianca
Lawrence,
Shana Zamikoff, and Michelle Schlossberg are promising all sorts of phenomenal
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away anything when I tell you there might
burgers, and chicken strips, along with face painting, Christmas movies, music, glitter tattoos, interactive stations which will include decorating tool boxes and bird feeders, decorating cookies, and Christmas
magic with the big man himself showing up. No, not Phil or Michael, but Santa! As a special surprise, the teddy bear brigade will be there for each child to receive a special gift. Hmmm, I wonder what that could be? Oh, and let’s not forget the parents – there will be a naughty and nice lane for parents at the peppermint martini bar. Sponsors include Spotlight Graphics, Michaels On East, Dr. Si Mcininch, and Cakes By Ron. And now, it is time for me to retire from writing about the social scene and to start being able to enjoy going to events again “just for the fun of it”. As this is my final social column for SCENE, I want to take this
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opportunity to say thank you to all of my readers over the past eight years. Your notes and emails have meant the world to me. I have loved keeping you informed on all the happenings of the swells and society swans of Sarasota and giving you the scoop about how to “make it” in the sometimes dangerous waters of the local social swim. I hope you have enjoyed it and learned from it, too!
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I have also recently finished up my work
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on our current special issue, the fabulous Women on the Scene. Talk about a labor of love! I have met so many terrific people while coordinating our special issues over the last seven years. It has been a pure joy all around and I have been honored to be a part of spotlighting the many women, men, and nonprofits that have appeared on our special issue pages. Words cannot express how much my dear friends, Julie and Ron Milton, mean to me and how grateful I am that they have given me this wonderful platform. Out of the blue in December 2007, Julie asked me to write the new social column for the magazine they had recently purchased and then a year later, to help in the development our now famous special issues. It was a great leap of faith for
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both of us! It has been such a tremendous opportunity to find my writing “voice” and to share my love, knowledge, and history of the Sarasota social and nonprofit scene. Julie’s best gift to me, besides her friendship, was in trusting me to write what I wanted to write
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forever grateful for that trust. Ron and Julie have become so dear to me and I will miss
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about and say what I wanted to say. I will be
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working every day with them, along with the entire staff at SCENE, more than anything. They are the best! Lastly, as you read in Julie’s editor’s letter, the marvelous woman taking over this space is my dear friend, Suzette Jones. Suzette and I met as board members on the Sarasota County Arts Council about 20 years ago and have been good friends ever since. She has long been involved in many activities and organizations that make our community great, so she has the wonderful perspective and background to make this space shine! I know she will do a fabulous job and you will fall in love with her and her column. So…Here is one last “TaTa!” from the social pages. As I look forward to sharing with you future tales from around the compost bin, I bid you a fond farewell, for now. Until we meet again…TaTa! Debbi Benedict is SCENE’s society maven and Special Issues Director. Contact Debbi at 941468-2782 or debbibenedict@verizon.net
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2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS SARASOTA:
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A mile north of Bee Ridge Road on Tuttle Avenue on the big circle
On Venice Avenue & Pinebrook Road in the Publix shopping center
Literary Scene The Christmas Book
Edition
By Ryan G. Van Cleave
The Journey of the Wise Men Venice author Ashley Hodge’s new book comes in a box with three 4” wooden wise men dolls that represent the three kings — Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar — who bring their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to Bethlehem. Hodge thankfully doesn’t take many liberties with the well-known Nativity story, instead choosing to follow the traditional version so many love and cherish. Here’s an example of Hodge’s spirited rhyming text: The wise men, each with gifts in hand, Pushed forward across the desert land. Many long miles did they roam To exotic lands far from home. They traveled fast atop camels’ backs, Knowing there was little time to relax. The images by children’s book illustration veteran Marina Saumell are delightful, though the real treat for many readers will be the three cute dolls included in the gift set. On Hodge’s book website, she invites readers to use them to reenact scenes from the book, or even play hide and seek with a twist. “After reading The Journey of the Wise Men at bedtime, hide the dolls somewhere special in your home. Your children will look forward to finding them in the morning.” It’s a bit like the Elf on the Shelf, only without as much mischief. Welcome the wise man and this 2000-year-old tale into your home today with Hodge’s version of the original Christmas story. For more information about The Journey of the Wise Men (Sill Publishing, hardcover, 34 pages, $24.99) or the author, please visit www.seekersonthesill.com
December 2015
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Heartfelt the Special Reindeer Prolific Florida author Cynthia MacGregor’s latest book celebrates Christmas by introducing a new reindeer named Heartfelt. She’s a special needs reindeer because her body isn’t built exactly like the other reindeer, and this keeps her relegated to backup duty despite her fervent wish to be on the main sleigh-pulling team. Yet Heartfelt has a special power — she can see into anyone’s heart and know exactly what their most heartfelt wish is. Will this power help make Christmas special for a sad little boy named James? Readers looking for a change of pace from the Christmas classics might enjoy this tender story about dreams coming true. For more information about Heartfelt: The Special Reindeer (AcuteByDesign, hardcover, 34 pages, $17.99) or the author, please visit www.cynthiamacgregor.com which offers a free original song, “It’s Heartfelt.”
The Naughty Red Fox: A Christmas Story Retired corporate executive and Sarasota resident Tom Hosted’s first book addresses the question: What happens to the Christmas tree ornaments when the lights go out? They come alive, of course. But when Mother brought home an ornament of a Red Fox wearing a green coat, a white shirt, a black bow tie, and black boots, things started to go wrong. The Red Fox taped shut the duck ornament’s mouth and hid him inside a yellow train boxcar. On another night, he captured a large sheep and a red partridge. He was building his own food supply! Before long, he was going to start eating his victims. Will the other ornaments discover his plan in time? Will the Old Lady Mouse, the Old Angel, the Train Engineer Mouse, and the Snowman Chief be able to stop him? Don’t worry — it’s a Christmas story, not a horror story, so all will end up well enough at the story’s close. The Naughty Red Fox: A Christmas Story (Serbin Print Marketing and Publishing, softcover, 34 pages, $9.95)
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Wilton Wilberry & the Magical Wishing Well
In this picture book, local author Mifflin Lowe shares the story of poor Wilton Wilberry who always gets the crummiest gifts for Christmas. Socks. Polka-dot underwear. Ugh. Worse, his older brother and sister get skateboards and video games! Then one wintry night, Wilton finds a magical wishing well that gives him everything he wants. But does Wilberry REALLY know what he wants? And what will Wilberry do when he realizes that by getting all he wants, no one else gets anything? While the story is quirky and fun, it’s the illustrations by Ringling College of Art + Design graduate Martina Crepulja that steal the show. The pictures are dreamy and emotionally evocative in all the right ways. Interested in checking out the audio CD version with bonus songs also written by Mifflin Lowe? Go to www. locokids.com for a surprising amount of free samples. (Be sure to listen to “All Alone Christmas Eve” which has a decidedly Beatles-like sound.) For more information about Wilton Wilberry & the Magical Wishing Well (CreateSpace, softcover, 34 pages, $10.99) or the author, please visit www.locokids.com
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For over 40 years, New College Library Association’s Mistletoe Ball, its top fundraising event, was one of the most anticipated and glamorous events on the Sarasota social scene. Its return to the scene is wished by the many who remember it well.
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