December2016 by SARASOTA SCENE Magazine

THE PHILANTHROPY OF

Violins

ERNIE KRETZMER

OF HOPE

THE KEY GIFT FOR THE RINGLING’S NEW CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY

DONORS MAKING

WAVES

GIVING

TO INSPIRE KIDS

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CONTENTS

FEATURES

64 60

THE PHILANTHROPY OF ERNIE KRETZMER

Meet this amazing man whose generosity has impacted our community in so many ways

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

VIOLINS OF HOPE

Rare instruments bring stories of the Holocaust to life

By Sue Cullen

COLORING LIVES By Ryan G. Van Cleave

Keith and Linda Monda’s most recent charitable gift helps give The Ringling a new gallery for contemporary art

MAKING WAVES

Mote’s leadership circle helps spur positive change

OPENING DOORS FOR CHILDREN TO IMAGINE

Van Wezel performances and education programs for children ignite philanthropic passion

MORE TOO LIFE

A local nonprofit gains national recognition in the fight against human trafficking

By Sue Cullen

COVER 10

FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS ON A MISSION

Photograph by John Revisky.

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December 2016

The power of philanthropy in a tight knit community shines bright

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CONTENTS

DEPARTMENTS

48 18 20 30 39 41 42 46

SOCIALS

Bacchus on the Beach USFSM’s Brunch on the Bay SMHF’s Key to the Cure Horne & Moon Scholarship Social JFCS Inaugural Legacy Awards Luncheon Callaghan Tire Charity Pro-Am Golf Tournament Hermitage Retreat’s Artful Lobster

EVENTS CALENDAR

PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR

GET INSPIRED

Saint Stephen’s Global Education Program connects students with the world By Ryan G. Van Cleave

DESIGN

THE BUZZ AROUND TOWN Our busy bee shares her local picks for holiday gifts By Suzette Jones

103 104

Cultural Happenings brought to you by the Arts and Culture Alliance of Sarasota County

EDUCATION

HEALTH Dr. Tracy Gapin tells us the latest on prostate cancer detection and management Dr. Jason Collins talks about the relationship between age and balance

105 LITERARY SCENE

Give your garage the makeover it deserves

Politics, religion and…dogs? Find out what’s in store in this month’s book reviews

By Jacqueline Miller

By Ryan Van Cleave

SCENES FROM AN INTERVIEW Gus shares memorable moments from past interview “Scenes” By Gus Mollasis

DECEMBER 2016

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December 2016

VOLUME 59 NO. 12

TILDEN ROSS 410 St. Armands Circle Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 388-3338 www.TildenRoss.com

FROM THE EXECUTIVE EDITOR

ccording to its website, The Philanthropy Roundtable is America’s leading network of charitable donors working to strengthen our free society, uphold donor intent, and protect the freedom to give. Its members include individual philanthropists, families, and private foundations.

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” – Winston Churchill

Reading about these great people got me thinking about our local philanthropists. There are so many great people whose generosity has helped shape our community. Who do you think are our greatest local philanthropists who deserve a spot in our community’s “Philanthropy Hall of Fame?”

In 2013, it presented a list of America’s greatest philanthropists named its “Philanthropy Hall of Fame.” I think you would be surprised to see many of the names on this list (greatphilanthropy.org) because you've probably never heard of them. The list was compiled using three basic considerations: a) philanthropy with one’s own money – not institutional giving; b) accomplishments throughout a lifetime; and c) taking a broad view at effectiveness, since excellence can take many forms. Among the usual great philanthropists on the list whose names we know such as Carnegie, Ford, Getty, Hilton, Mellon, Morgan, and Rockefeller, there are also presidents including Washington and Hoover, and the great Benjamin Franklin, who seems to be on every list there is. But it is the many names most of us have never heard before that enticed me to spend time reading inspirational bios of people who in many cases have been forgotten; however, their major philanthropic impact, which still affects our society today, needs to be remembered and honored. People such as Mary Elizabeth Garrett, who was one of the most significant benefactors of higher education for women; Gap founder Don Fisher became the savviest education-reform philanthropist of his era; Bill Daniels, a pioneer of the cable TV industry, who reached out to those who were down on their luck, those who abused alcohol and drugs, and those who suffered from mental and physical disabilities.

Happy Holidays! 14

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December 2016

As the editors of The Philanthropy Roundtable stated about compiling its list, “Greatness…is a surprisingly elusive concept. It’s even harder to define greatness in philanthropy…what separates good from great? Which is more important, the size of the gift, its percentage of net worth, or the return on charitable dollar? Is great philanthropy necessarily transformative? To what extent is effectiveness a function of the number of individuals served, or the degree of innovation achieved, or the years of lasting influence?” Let me know whom you think should be on a local “Philanthropy Hall of Fame” list, why they deserve a spot, and how their gift(s) have been transformative in our community. You can submit your selection to me at julie@scenesarasota.com. There are also those who have dedicated their lives to helping others. While their contribution is not monetary, perhaps the impact of their philanthropy promotes human welfare on a level that needs to be recognized. Please let me know who you think best exemplifies an unparalleled love for the well-being of others in our community. They are our unsung heroes. As the holidays are upon us once again, let’s remember that it’s not just about the beautifully wrapped gifts we receive. Let’s make it a time that we go out of our way to do something good for someone else, something unexpected, something that will make someone smile from ear to ear, or perhaps even make them shed some tears.

P.S. Don’t forget to email me your submissions! julie@scenesarasota.com

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SOCIAL Bacchus on the Beach The 6th annual Bacchus on the Beach Celebration of Food & Wine welcomed over 350 attendees on the beach at the Resort at Longboat Key Club. More than 35 winemakers and distributors poured some of their most select vintages as partygoers indulged in mounds of stone crab and shrimp, grilled specialties and hand-crafted desserts prepared by the Club’s chefs. Private winery tours, specialty wines and five-star dining packages were auctioned; the proceeds benefit Mote Marine and its programs. Photos by Kelly Kearns Sandra Rios & Bob Weil

Jennifer Hoffman, Todd Ricard & Alan Matthis

Kristy & Larry Daugherty

Teri Hansen, Scott & Candy Greer

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December 2016

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SOCIAL USF Sarasota-Manatee’s Brunch on the Bay USF Sarasota-Manatee celebrated its 23rd Brunch on the Bay in style as more than 800 attendees showed up at the university’s campus to dine on sumptuous cuisine from more than 20 local food and beverage vendors. Kicking off the social season, Brunch has become a mainstay for the community to mingle and enjoy elegant fare while supporting a good cause: college scholarships for local students. This year, USF Director of Athletics Mark Harlan unveiled plans to launch an NCAA Division I women’s rowing team at USF Sarasota-Manatee. Attendees responded generously, pledging more than $10,000 that morning to women’s rowing scholarships. That amount was matched with another $10,000 from USFSM itself.

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The Sarasota Ballet Box Office

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December 2016

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sailor CirCus presents Monday December 26 – thursday December 29, 2016

Sailor Circus Arena, 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota 34239 Experience the wonder of the holidays! Come celebrate with the whole family at this annual production featuring students ages 8-18. Grab a cup of cheer — it’s the best time of the year!

CirCus sarasota Winter perforManCe friday, february 10 – sunday, March 5, 2017

The Ulla Searing Big Top, Nathan Benderson Park, on the SE corner of the Mall at UTC, University Parkway and I-75 Legendary Nik Wallenda and his troupe headline the 20th Anniversary show featuring an impressive array of international circus artists. Last year’s shows sold out, so be sure to reserve your tickets early!

Cirque Des Voix® – CirCus of the VoiCes

friday, March 24 – sunday, March 26, 2017 The Big Top, Nathan Benderson Park, on the SE corner of the Mall at UTC, University Parkway and I-75 A unique and exhilarating spin on the traditional circus, this powerful performance combines world-class circus acts with the 100+ voices of the Key Chorale and the musical expertise of the 30-piece Cirque Orchestra to produce one of the most breathtaking professional shows you’ll ever have the pleasure of experiencing.

CIRCUSARTS.ORG | 941.355.9805 The Circus Arts Conservatory is a 501(c)(3) non-profit performing arts educational organization.

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

6-year-old Selah Howard enjoying the “winter” weather on Lido Beach. Photo by Bridget Howard.

Cause 4 Fashion by the Bay December 1 Van Wezel 11:30 a.m. All of the models in the show will be Parkinson Disease patients or their caregivers, family members or friends. Proceeds from the event benefit Parkinson Disease programs and research in Sarasota & Manatee counties. Tickets: $85-$850 | 941.926.6413 | sara@neurochallenge.org

Florida Center’s 29th Annual Festival of Trees December 2 Michael’s On East 6:30 p.m. Escape to the Winter Woods featuring cocktails, live music and entertainment, dancing, auctions and dinner. Benefiting the Florida Center for Early Childhood Tickets: $175 | 941.371.8820 ext.1025 | thefloridacenter.org

Bradenton Blues Festival December 2 – 4 Bradenton Riverwalk Park Featuring a team of top blues artists. Enjoy food, drinks, art, vendors and live music. Tickets: $10 - $30 | bradentonbluesfestival.org

Make-A-Wish Foundation’s Christmas in CandyLand December 3 Michael’s On East Ballroom

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December 2016

11:00 a.m. Walk down Candy Cane Lane to meet Santa, paint your face like an elf, decorate cookies and ginger bread houses, and feed your Yuletide appetite. Benefits Make-A-Wish Foundation. Tickets: Adults $75 – Kids $50 | 941.952.9474 | wishcentralfl.wish.org

Friends of Sarasota Ballet’s Jewels Gala December 5 Sarasota Yacht Club 6:00 p.m. Holiday dinner & dance with live music and an auction. Tickets: $125-$300 | 941.923.0298 | friends@sarasotaballet.org

La Musica Sonata a Due December 6 The Field Club 6:00 p.m. An elegant evening to open the 31st season for La Musica with cocktails, recital and dinner. Featuring Daniel Avshalomov, viola, and Derek Han, piano. Tickets: $150 guests; $250 patrons | 941.371.6798 | lamusicafestival.org

Jewish Federation’s Women’s Day December 7 Michael’s On East 12 noon. Featuring special guest Paula Abdul. Tickets are sold out; contact dstafford@jfedsrq.org to be added to the waitlist | 941.343.2115| jfedsrq.org

CATHOLIC CHARITIES BALL 2017

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Saturday, January 28

The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Ballroom

Enjoy an elegant, black-tie evening of cocktails, auctions, dinner and dancing to the sounds of Soul Sensations. Tickets are $300. h Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information call 941-355-4680, ext. 305, email mpufta@ccdis1.org or visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CatholicCharitiesDioceseofVenice. To Benefit Media Sponsors

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3rd Annual PINC.Sarasota 2016 Conference December 8 Sarasota Opera House 9:00 a.m. An all-day event that showcases exceptional international speakers, astounding artistic intermezzos and culinary delights. Tickets: $425 | 941.228.5357 | PINCsarasota.com

Venice Lights of Friendship December 8 Catlin Friendship Center, Venice 5:30 p.m. Honoring the late Derek Dunn-Rankin, Sun Coast Media Group Founding Publisher and benefiting Friendship Centers Venice Campus. Tickets: $125 | 941.556.3205 | friendshipcenters.org

Easter Seals 70th Anniversary Celebration

941.685.3198 | 941.400.0540 DeniseMei@michaelsaunders.com | NicoleMei@michaelsaunders.com

December 9 The Ritz-Carlton 6:30 p.m. Celebrate 70 years of helping countless children and adults living with disabilities lead a more independent lifestyle. Tickets: $250+ | easterseals-swfl.org | 941.355.7637

JFCS Gala December 11 The Ritz-Carlton 5:00 p.m. Tickets: $500 | 941.366.2224 ext. 142 | jfcs-cares.org

Asolo Repertory Theatre Director’s Take Luncheon

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December 12 Mertz Theatre Lobby 10:30 a.m. Lunch and stimulating conversation with Asolo Rep’s directors, exploring the theme of the season. Tickets: $75 | 941.351.9010 x4702 | asolorep.org/directorstakelunch

Embracing Our Differences Annual Luncheon December 14 Michael’s On East 12:00 p.m. Luncheon and a brief program about Embracing Our Differences and its impact on our community. Tickets: $50 | 941. 404.5710 | embracingourdifferences.org

The Child Protection Center’s Men, Whiskey & Watches December 15 Edson Keith Phillippi Mansion 6:00 p.m. Enjoy music, beverages, men’s fashions and accessories, cigars, and whiskey sampling. Tickets: $175 | 941.365.1277 | cpcsarasota.org

Ringling by the Bay December 19 Bayfront Gardens 5:00 p.m. Featuring live music by Paisley Craze. Food and beverage are available for purchase on the bayfront. Tickets: $15 | 941.358.3180 | ringling.org

Also in The Landings, this 5 bedroom estate home has 4,394 square feet of living space, a large and lovely master suite, updated baths, a large and updated kitchen, 3 car garage, pool and spa. 5197 Flicker Field Circle | $1,089,000 26

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December 2016

Upcoming Events: 19th Annual Thunder by the Bay Motorcycle Festival January 5 – 8 Various times and locations. Enjoy live music, vendors, wine, beer, and whiskey tastings, silent auction, festival, and bike show. Benefits Suncoast Charities for Children. 941.371.8820 x1800 | thunderbythebay.org

NCJW’s 35th Annual Women in Power Luncheon January 18 Michael’s On East 11:00 a.m. National Council of Jewish Women Sarasota-Manatee honors KT Curran, Sue Jacobson, Dr. Lisa Merritt and Bunny Skirboll. Tickets $75 | 941.342.1855 | ncjwsarasota-manatee.org

features interactive food and wine seminars, wines and beers from around the world, signature dishes from area restaurants, live entertainment, and a charity wine auction. 941.365.2800 | dineoriginal.com/forksandcorks

6th Annual Taylor Emmons Scholarship Fund Charity Golf & Poker Night

Sarasota Opera Gala January 21 The Ritz-Carlton 6:30 p.m. Raise a glass of champagne to celebrate the start of the 2017 Winter Opera Festival. Tickets: $325 | 941.366.8450 | sarasotaopera.org

January 28 Lakewood Ranch Country Club 10:30 a.m. Box lunch and registration. Noon tee off (Shotgun). $200 individual player. Buffet dinner provided to golfers. Poker Night starts at 6:00 pm with buffet dinner at LWRCC. Tickets: $125 per player/$50 non-player | 941.915.9249 | temmons.org

SMHF’s 5th Annual Women & Medicine Luncheon January 27 Michael’s on East 10:30 a.m. Featuring a lively, interactive panel discussion with three Sarasota Memorial Hospital physicians discussing trends in oncology care. Tickets: $100 | 941.917.1286 | smhf.org

Circus Arts Conservatory 20th Annual Circus Arts Gala January 27 Big Top at UTC 6:30pm. Join the Circus Arts Conservatory in celebrating their 20th annual Circus Arts Gala. Tickets start at $225. Circusarts.org

10th Annual Forks & Corks Food & Wine Festival January 27 – 30 Various times and locations. Hosted by the Sarasota-Manatee Originals, this epicurean celebration

Catholic Charities Ball January 28 Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, 6:00 p.m. Proceeds benefit Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. in Sarasota and Manatee counties. The gala will include a cocktail hour, dinner and dancing along with a signature raffle and jewelry auction. Tickets: $300 | 941.355.4680, ext. 311 | mpufta@ccdis1.org

Sarasota Orchestra: Anu and Friends Dinner 2 January 31 Sarasota Yacht Club 6:00 p.m. Join Music Director Anu Tali and Sarasota Orchestra musicians for a musical interlude, delicious dinner, and stimulating conversation with artists from the world stage. Tickets: $175 | 941.487.2740 | sarasotaorchestra.org

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SOCIAL SMHFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Key to the Cure More than 1,000 partygoers joined Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation in raising money for cancer care at the Annual Key to the Cure event at Saks Fifth Avenue. More than 25 local salons, boutiques, restaurants and more sponsored raffle prizes. Guests enjoyed catered bites by Sophieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s at Saks, desserts and drinks, as well as entertainment provided by local companies such as the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe and Sarasota Cuban Ballet School. Spotted amongst the crowd were the faces of Sally Schule, Wendy Feinstein, Aimee Cogan, Ariane Dart and Veronica Brady, to name a few.

Photos by Nancy Guth

Ariane Dart, Aimee Cogan & Jamie Becker

Lisa & Lucy Wallace

Anna Nekoranec, Sally Schule & Annelie Niebuhr

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December 2016

Elizabeth Moore

Angela Radien, Katie Emmons & Rene Preininger

Bill Edwards & Dr. Alissa Shulman

Katherine Keeley, Ann Moore & Melanie Jeffrey

Heather Saba, Erin Graham, Tiffany Wenzel, Ashley Thomas, Ashley Gottridge, Kelsey Alholm & Ali Miller

Jeanette & Ashley Leon

Tom Doan & Ben Tindal

Adam Negroski & Sarah Wertheimer

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PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR Black Nativity

ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE

Winter Cabaret – Gypsies, Tramps & Thieves

Independent Jones

941.351.8000 / asolorep.org

Through February 5

Main Stage – Guys and Dolls

Piano Men

December 30 A concert series that will feature local and regional bands from the Tampa Bay area.

Through January 1 The plot involves the unlikeliest of romantic pairings: a high-rolling gambler and a save-your-soul missionary, a showgirl dreaming of the straight-and-narrow and a crap game manager who is anything but.

Through April 2

FSU/Asolo Conservatory – A View From The Bridge

Deck The Halls!

December 27 – January 15 From the man who gave us Death of a Salesman, The Crucible and All My Sons. Eddie Carbone – a longshoreman who helps smuggle in two of his wife’s cousins into the country – undergoes a monstrous change when one of the two cousins begins to pursue Eddie’s teenage niece, and the play explodes in a tragic display of violence and unconscious passions.

THE CIRCUS ARTS CONSERVATORY 941.355.9805 / circusarts.org

Children’s Theatre The Velveteen Rabbit December 3

THE PERLMAN MUSIC PROGRAM/ SUNCOAST 941.955.4942/perlmanmusicprogramsuncoast.org

PMP Sarasota Winter Residency December 10, 17 & 24

LEMON BAY PLAYHOUSE 941.475.6756 / lemonbayplayhouse.com

Bob’s Your Elf Through December 18 To learn a lesson about cooperation, an ornery elf named Bob gets banished from the North Pole.

MANATEE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

December 21 – January 7 Approx. 20 free events presented on the campus of USF Sarasota-Manatee.

Super Strings and Orchestra Rehearsal December 30 Followed by the Member/Sponsor Student Social in USF’s Selby Auditorium. Tickets: $10 (free for members & sponsors)

THE PLAYERS CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS 941.365.2494 / theplayers.org

941.748.5875 / manateeperformingartscenter.com

Sailor Circus Holiday Performances December 26 – December 29 “The Greatest ‘Little’ Show on Earth” delights audiences once more with an annual holiday production at the Sailor Circus Arena. Shows are at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Tickets: $15 - $20

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE 941.366.9000 / floridastudiotheatre.org

Mainstage – Million Dollar Quartet Through January 1

Clever Little Lies December 14 – March 4

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December 2016

Legally Blonde: The Musical Beauty and the Beast December 1 – 18 An arrogant young prince and his castle’s servants fall under the spell of a wicked enchantress, who turns him into the hideous Beast until he learns to love and be loved in return.

December 7 – 23 Based on the novel and film of the same name, it follows the story of Elle Woods, a sorority girl who enrolls at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend.

SARASOTA BALLET 941.359.0099 / sarasotaballet.org

It’s a Wonderful Life December 1 – 18 After George Bailey wishes he had never been born, an angel is sent to earth to make George’s wish come true. George starts to realize how many lives he has changed and impacted, and how they would be different if he was never there.

George Balanchine’s ‘Jewels’ December 16 – 17 This unique program, a ballet in three parts, presents a miniature history of classical dance with references to ballet’s French origins, Russia’s imperial style and Balanchine’s own take on the art form.

SARASOTA ORCHESTRA 941.953.3434 / sarasotaorchestra.org

Masterworks 2 – The New World December 2 – 4 Copland’s Appalachian Spring and Dvorák’s symphony From the New World performed by violinist Vadim Gluzman

Great Escapes 2 – Sleigh Ride December 7 – 10 An enchanting evening of holiday classics that are sure to enliven your yuletide cheer

URBANITE THEATRE 941.321.1397/UrbaniteTheatre.com

My Barking Dog Through December 18 Two reclusive apartment dwellers’ unfulfilled lives take a turn for the bizarre when a hungry coyote begins to visit their fire escape.

VAN WEZEL PERFORMING ARTS HALL 941.955.7676 | vanwezel.org

Sarasota Orchestra – Masterworks: The New World December 2 – 4

Fame: The Musical December 7 – 8

Oak Ridge Boys’ Christmas December 10

Beach Boys ‘Christmas’ December 12

Garrison Keillor December 13

The Sarasota Ballet: George Balanchine’s ‘Jewels’ December 16 – 17

A Christmas Carol December 21

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s ‘Cinderella’ December 27 – 28

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker December 29

42nd Street December 30

VENICE THEATRE 941.488.1115 / venicestage.com

Mainstage – Billy Elliott: The Musical Through December 4 Based on the hit film, Billy Elliot tells the inspiring story of a boy from a coal mining family who has a dream his father doesn’t understand.

A Christmas Carol December 16 – 21 A festive annual tradition at Venice Theatre celebrating its 17th year, this musical version of

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December 2016

Dickens’ classic tale follows Ebenezer Scrooge as he reflects on his past, present and possible future.

Late Nite Catechism December 9 – 10 Part catechism class, part stand-up routine, Late Nite Catechism will take you back to the days of the Latin Mass, meatless Fridays, and remind you about that good old ruler across the knuckles!

The Sounds of Christmas Starring the Ditchfield Family Singers December 22 – 23 Enjoy a cozy evening of holiday tunes sung by one of our area’s most beloved singing groups –The Ditchfield Family Singers.

Shades of Bublé December 29 – 31 This group brings the swinging standards and pop hits of Michael Bublé to the stage in an unforgettable high-energy concert event.

The Pinkerton December 2 – 18 Six Women with Brain Death or Expiring Minds Want to Know. A fast-paced, take-no-prisoners feminist satire of life at the end of the millennium.

VENICE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 941.480.3191 / veniceperformingartscenter.com

Venice Concert Band: Christmas Concert December 5 The Venice Concert Band will perform a collection of holiday favorites at their annual Christmas Concert.

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One Day University December 10 The Herald-Tribune, One Day University© and the Venice Institute for Performing Arts are bringing four great professors from the best universities in the country to Venice to present special versions of their very best lectures – LIVE.

School of Russian Ballet: The Nutcracker December 11 The School of Russian Ballet (Bradenton, FL) RETURNS to the Venice Performing Arts Center with the classic winter ballet THE NUTCRACKER.

Venice Symphony: Holiday Favorites with the Venice Chorale December 16 – 18 Experience Venice’s two major cultural assets as they join forces to light up your holiday spirit.

WESTCOAST BLACK THEATRE TROUPE 941.366.1505 / westcoastblacktheatre.org

Black Nativity November 30 – December 23 A celebration of the Nativity story with gospel, blues, spiritual, and Christmas music, paired with the poetry of Langston Hughes and the creativity of WBTT.

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SOCIAL Horne & Moon Scholarship Social Hosts John and Amanda Horne and Stewart and Trudy Moon welcomed 300 guests to the 3rd annual Horne & Moon Scholarship Social at the Air & Energy warehouse in downtown Bradenton. This 1920’s Vintage Hollywood-themed evening, which included catered dinner and a silent auction, raised funds for need-based scholarships for local adults to return to school. Presenting Sponsors; Doug & Nikki Mansfield, Casey & Rochelle Colburn, Harris & Micheline Silverman, Mike & Tammy McCoy, Darcie Duncan, Ron & Julie Milton, Graeme & Dina Malloch, Rae Dowling, Dr. Carol Probstfeld & Bill Murphy, Kim French & Warren & Cathy Simonds with Willis Smith Construction, Ashley Brown, Bob & Sharon Hillstrom, Dr. James Johnson, Carol Masio, Stewart Moon, Jr., Rich Knowles, Austin Boyd, Eleni Sokos, Morgan Johnson, Macy Smith & Mike Galati.

John & Amanda Horne

Photos by Nancy Guth

Lynn & Chris Romine

Stewart Moon, Jr., Trudy & Stewart Moon

Carol Probstfeld

Sharon & Bob Hillstron

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FEATURING STEVE MARTIN & MARTIN SHORT

Friday, February 10, 2017 | 5PM RESERVE YOUR TICKETS TODAY! For tickets and sponsorship opportunities call 941-366-5578 or visit vwfoundation.org Cocktails by the Bay | Dinner Reception Live Performance by Steve Martin & Martin Short | After-Party GALA PROCEEDS SUPPORT THE VAN WEZEL FOUNDATIONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MISSION TO INSPIRE A CHILD, ENRICH A LIFE AND SUPPORT ARTS EDUCATION.

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ATTENTION TO DETAIL

Joan Lieberman Gerald & Sondra Biller Bill & Nancy Gacioch

Bahaj & Newkirk Families

SOCIAL JFCS Inaugural Legacy Awards Luncheon Nearly 200 guests joined JFCS of the Suncoast at The Francis to honor three couples at the organizationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inaugural Legacy Awards Luncheon, chaired by Steve Seidensticker. The award recipients, Esther & Bob Heller, Ora & Joe Mendels and Margie & Chuck Barancik, were recognized for their tireless work to empower the most vulnerable in our community. RoseAnne B. Frano, Attorney & Shareholder of Williams Parker, introduced the keynote speaker, Alina Gerlovin Spaulding. Photos by Kelly Kearns

Margie & Chuck Barancik

Rose-Anne B. Frano

Joe & Ora Mendels

Steve Seidensticker & Rose Chapman

Bob & Esther Heller

December 2016

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SOCIAL Callaghan Tire Charity Pro-Am Golf Tournament The Callaghan Tire Charity Pro-Am Golf Tournament brought out amateurs and legends alike, among them pros Doug Johnson, Carl Mason, Robert Gamez, Tony Jacklin, Hollis Stacy, Dow Finsterwald and Gibby Gilbert. The tournament was played at Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club and The Concession Golf Club. This first-class charity event, started by Callaghan

The magic begins when the performance ends.

Tire CEO Dan Callaghan, has raised more than $800,000 for cancer research, with 100% of the tournament profits going to “Golfers Against Cancer.”

Photos by Nancy Guth & Daniel Perales

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December 2016

Sabal Trust Company Susan Brennan

STEPS INTO NEW ROLE WITH

Same Devotion to Excellence By Sue Cullen | Photo by John Revisky

Susan Brennan is a familiar face in Sarasota having arrived here eight years ago from the Midwest and built a reputation for a client-focused devotion to excellence in wealth management. Brennan also is known for her tireless efforts to support the community through her involvement with some of the area’s most highly regarded nonprofits. In her new role as an owner and Managing Principal of Sabal Trust Company’s Tampa team, Brennan has approached her more regional role with characteristic enthusiasm. That verve is fueled by Sabal Trust’s highly-personalized approach to client service that is customized for each family and delivered by a team of experienced and credentialed experts through a fiduciary relationship that always puts clients’ best interests first. “Eight years ago, I came into the Sarasota market from Michigan and was privileged to build a reputation for serving clients one-on-one with a team of caring professionals,” she said. “Sabal Trust has given me a wonderful opportunity to build my own team and impact an entire region. It is a great chance to mentor people in an approach to wealth management that I know works extremely well.” Sabal Trust (941.556.0760/ sabaltrust.com) is Florida’s largest employee-owned trust company

with more than $2 billion in assets under management and has offices in Sarasota, Tampa, St. Petersburg and The Villages. "We are local, highly credentialed, caring and responsive,” says Brennan, who is a Certified Wealth Strategist and has completed an Executive Scholar concentration at the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University. “We have no call centers, 800 lines or passive computer models. No matter what size their accounts are, clients are surrounded by a team that is responsive, and portfolios are managed with low fees and low tax liability in mind.“ Sabal Trust takes a conservative and proven approach to investment management that melds wealth building with asset preservation. “We believe

in a strong dividend growth strategy, and that model is tried and true. It has served very well since our predecessor companies started 30 years ago and since Sabal Trust was founded in 1993,” Brennan said. “It encompasses a diversified portfolio of individually selected stocks and investment-grade bonds, without a lot of mutual funds, because we want to keep fees low.” In addition to investment management based on prudent growth and systemic risk management, Sabal Trust also offers IRA services to help clients with annual income needs, handling rollovers, and fitting those assets into estate planning. It also provides trust services – acting with responsibility and sensitivity in the role of an appointed corporate trustee – and estate settlement services, relieving clients of

complex and time-consuming tasks. Because of its approach, Sabal Trust attracts clients who are retired or near retirement, working professionals and entrepreneurs, high net worth individuals, and charitable organizations. “Because our strategy is good at limiting downside potential, we appeal to many entrepreneurs who may have a lot of risk in their businesses, but who do not want a high level of risk in their investments,” she said. “We also work with and coach many women who are in transition through divorce or being widowed and don’t want a lot of volatility.” Being connected philanthropically with the communities in which it serves also is an important value both for Sabal Trust and for Brennan, who served locally on many boards including Girls Inc., Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation and Giving

Matters. She likes being able to maintain her Sarasota connections in her new role, including the ability to introduce people to her long-time friend Lowe Morrison, who local residents may know from his service on the boards of Mote Marine Laboratory and New College Foundation. Morrison also leads Sabal Trust’s Sarasota office. “Susan is very near and dear to my heart, and I am so excited that she has joined our firm,” Morrison said. “As owners, our relationship is collaborative, and our objective is to help each other and our clients.” Sabal Trust established the Sarasota office nearly 10 years ago with 30-year financial services veterans Morrison and Ron Koepsel. Since then, the office has been highly involved with the community, including the Frank E. Duckwall Foundation, All Children’s Hospital, the Southwest

Florida Estate Planning Council as well as New College Foundation and Mote Marine Laboratory. Although leaving Sarasota’s many attractions and the friends she made since coming to the area is challenging, Brennan is excited about becoming more involved regionally. She is now enjoying the vibrant downtown buzz of Saint Petersburg and Tampa, which are experiencing significant growth. She also is enthusiastic about being part of Sabal Trust’s own plans for growth, and believes its approach to wealth management and client service will drive that growth. “Because of our main areas of focus and how we deliver client service, we are very aligned with our clients,” Brennan said. “When I sit with a client, I have nothing to sell them. I am on the same side of the table as they are. If my client does better, I do better.”

SOCIAL Hermitage Retreat’s Artful Lobster

New patient appointments

The annual Artful Lobster was recently held on a picture perfect day at the Hermitage Artist Retreat’s beachfront campus on Manasota Key. In addition to a scrumptious lobster, barbequed ribs and chicken buffet with all the trimmings from Michael’s On East, guests were treated to a magical performance by Mezzo-Soprano Carla Dirlikov Canales, accompanied by pianist Lee Dougherty Ross. Grand Sponsor was Gulf Coast Community Foundation represented by President and CEO Mark Pritchett. Beth Cannata was event chair.

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December 2016

WE KEEP THEIR OVERHEAD DOWN, SO THEY CAN LIFT MORE PEOPLE UP. When you make a donation to The Glasser Schoenbaum Human Services Center, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re allowing the nonprofits on our campus to use their financial resources to help more people in our community. We are recognized as the leader of a collaborative community providing high quality, accessible facilities for the local human services nonprofit sector. Help us help them. To learn more or to make a donation, please visit us at www.gs-humanservices.org or call 941.365.4545.

1750 17th Street, Sarasota, FL 34234 941.365.4545 | www.gs-humanservices.org

GET INSPIRED Cultural Happenings brought to you by the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

Sarasota native, Charlie Huisking has been inspired by the arts in this community for his entire life. His initial exposure was as a child, when his parents took him to performances at Asolo Repertory Theatre and the Sarasota Orchestra, and regularly brought him to The Ringling Museum of Art. After graduating from

the University of Notre Dame, Huisking became an arts reporter for the Sarasota HeraldTribune. For 33 years, he chronicled Sarasota's evolution into a major arts center. Since his retirement, Huisking has devoted his time to philanthropy and public service. Through his family foundation, the Huisking Foundation, he supports a variety of cultural and social-service organizations, including Asolo Rep, The Ringling Museum, The Sarasota Ballet and Ringling College of Art and Design. He serves on the board of directors of Asolo Rep, the Library Foundation for Sarasota County, and the Barancik Foundation. We asked this arts enthusiast how and why the arts in Sarasota influence and inspire him.

“When I was about 10, my mother took me to a performance of an Italian comedy at Asolo Rep, and I thought I was going to hate it. But instead I was enchanted, and that visit sparked my lifelong affection for the arts. As an arts writer for the Herald-Tribune, I felt I had the best job in town, because I got to cover so many creative and inspiring people, from visiting celebrities like Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn, to the members of Sarasota's vibrant cultural community. Now I feel I've come full circle, because I get to support the wonderful organizations that have given me such pleasure and inspiration through the years. This is a particularly thrilling time to be involved with the arts, because the quality has increased exponentially. But it's important to realize Sarasota didn't become an arts center overnight, and we can never forget the contributions of the people who laid the foundation, such as the late symphony conductor Paul Wolfe, and so many more.” 48

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December 2016

WHaT WIll yOur lEgacy bE? Healthcare is a 24/7/365 endeavor. When you include the Healthcare Foundation in your will or estate plan you leave a lasting legacy of your values, ensuring that your community hospital stays at the forefront of healthcare. establisH your legacy.

sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, inc. (941) 917-1286 | smhf.org

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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.

Inspiring Events: MARIE SELBY BOTANICAL GARDENS PRESENTS LIGHTS IN BLOOM AT SELBY GARDENS

Sommelier, Marco Sforza & Owner, Andrea Bozzolo

Now in its 13th year, Lights in Bloom is a tradition for many residents and visitors to celebrate the holiday season in Sarasota. Each night from Dec. 16 – 23 and 26 – 30, the Gardens are awash in lighted

A Finer Taste of

Italy

displays that showcase iconic scenes at Selby Gardens. There will also be nightly live entertainment and children’s arts and crafts activities and games.

• Northern Italian Cuisine • Homemade Breads and Pastas • Fresh, Sustainable, High Quality Ingredients • Open for Lunch • Extensive Wine & Cheese Collection • Private Room for Events up to 30 People

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offered is a “Selby Experience” pass for

$20 for Selby Gardens Members or $7.50 and under age four are free. Also $100 Adults, $30 Children, which includes reserved parking, early admission, open bar, cocktail buffet and holiday desserts. December 16 – 23 and 26 – 30 | 900 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota | selby.org

MOTE MARINE LABORATORY AND AQUARIUM PRESENTS SANTA JAWS

Tired of waiting for the holidays to stock up on items like wreaths, ornaments and other seasonal items? Look no further, Shelly’s brings you year-round access to the best holiday items. We aren’t just a Christmas shop, we carry items for Valentine’s Day, Easter, Hanukkah and more!

helper shark: Santa Jaws! Visitors to Mote

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get into the spirit of the holiday SEAson!

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December 2016

Bring your camera and meet Santa's Aquarium can visit Santa Jaws – Mote Mascot Gilly the Shark dressed for the holidays – and take photos with him to (Social media users: hashtag your photos

with #MoteMarineLab on Instagram and Twitter and you might just see them on mote.org). Visiting Santa Jaws is included with admission to Mote Aquarium. December 17, 12 – 2 p.m. | Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium | 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota | 941.388.4441 | mote.org/santa

ISLAND GALLERY WEST PRESENTS DIETER LAU

Chevron (Diamond!)

Chic

Featuring Earrings by Ilyssa Londa

1439 Main Street Sarasota, Florida 34236 941-373-6333 | ruesrq.com Open 7 days a week Dieter Lau has been named the December Featured Artist at Island Gallery West, showing his digital art in a display

View our latest styles on FB & Instagram

entitled Expressive Espresso. Lau explores and captures trendy baristas and gathering places around the world. Known for his experimentation of Digital Art design, Lau takes reality and transforms it into expressive photographs. Opening Reception, part of the annual Holmes Beach Merchants’ Holiday Celebration, is on December 2 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Exhibit continues through December 31. | Gallery hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Mon. - Sat. | Trolley Stop 15 on Anna Maria Island | 941.778.6648 | islandgallerywest.com

LONGBOAT KEY CENTER FOR THE ARTS PRESENTS DRAWING RE-IMAGINED

Discover heirloom-quality Amish and American-made furniture

The exhibition will feature work by artists Will Corr and Jack King. Drawing is defined as the art, activity or practice of

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December 2016

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creating images usually consisting of lines. In the 21st century, the materials used to create lines have become ambiguous, but the permanent expressive gesture remains.

Both

artists,

through

their

paintings, drawings, sculptures and reliefs are creating art where line, gesture, shade and pattern form their creative expression and point of view. All exhibition events are

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DABBERT GALLERY PRESENTS THE MUSIC OF ART EXHIBIT

www.CommunityDay.org

Paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues

THE DESTINATION for December! Many painters and sculptors are inspired by and rely on music as they work and create their art. As a result, many works of art evoke musical expression, sometimes

Also playing in December on MainStage Late Nite Catechism: Dec. 9 & 10 A Christmas Carol: Dec. 16 - 21 The Sounds of Christmas: Dec. 22 & 23 Shades of Bublé: Dec. 29 - 31 941-488-1115

VeniceStage.com | 140 W. Tampa Ave. 54

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December 2016

exhilarating times subtle

and

obvious

and subconscious,

many but

always there to hear and see if you listen. The Perlman Music Program / Suncoast will join Dabbert Gallery in bringing music and artwork together to help meet their fundraising goals. Opening Reception with Artists: December 2 from 6 – 8:30 p.m. | Exhibit runs through December 30. | Gallery Hours: Tues. - Sat., 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. | 76 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota | 941.955.1315 | dabbertgallery.com

WE ARE GOODWILL Philanthropy from the Donor’s Perspective

he Adams and Reese Sarasota office has enjoyed a mutually beneficial partnership with Goodwill Manasota spanning more than five years.

Because we believe in the work Goodwill does within the

participating in the 2016 “Be Cool” Giving Challenge Campaign. “We firmly believe that giving back isn’t something we have to

community, we support Goodwill’s mission of “Changing

do – it’s something we should do and something we are proud to do.

Lives Through the POWER of Work”, and are passionate

Some people need a hand up in order to achieve self-sufficiency,”

about helping people on their way to self-sufficiency.

Gaskill said. “Our HUGS team and firm make these contributions

“Goodwill provides such a great return on the time and resources invested into it,”said Jason Gaskill, Partner in Charge — Sarasota office. “We strongly believe in and support the

to Goodwill to help them continue making improvements to the quality of so many lives within our community.” Added Laurel Corriveau, Adams and Reese Business

life-changing actions of Goodwill, not only over the holidays,

Development Manager, “We’re proud to pour our efforts

but throughout the year. Our office has been very fortunate to

into supporting Goodwill because we know they employ

have been offered the opportunity to frequently partner with

people in our community who need and want to work. The

Goodwill on numerous fundraising and awareness projects.

resources Goodwill gives to their employees in terms of

These include adopting families during the holidays, holding

financial literacy, career counseling, training and opportunities

‘Jeans Day’ office fundraisers, encouraging employees to

come at a cost to the organization, and our volunteer work

serve as Goodwill Ambassadors, and making a difference

and donations help deliver these valuable services.”

by donating unused office furniture to Goodwill.”

Adams and Reese was honored as Goodwill “Business

We are proud of our HUGS (Hope, Understanding,

of the Year” and “Community Ambassador of the Year” in

Giving and Support) corporate philanthropy and employee

2016 in recognition of our efforts of supporting Goodwill’s

volunteer program, through which we have partnered with

mission. We look forward to continuing our special

Goodwill Manasota. Our HUGS program was founded

relationship and enhancing the quality of life of individuals

in 1988 as an avenue for giving back to our communities.

and families by helping people reach their full potential

We volunteer our time to causes we are passionate

through education, skills training and the power of work.

about in each of our cities and regularly organize events and volunteer our time toward HUGS fundraising. Adams and Reese has partnered with Goodwill on 12

Adams and Reese is a multidisciplinary law firm with nearly 280 attorneys and advisors strategically located in 16 offices across 15 markets throughout the southern United States and

projects, including an Adopt-A-Family initiative during the

Washington, D.C. Philanthropy and volunteerism are deeply-

holidays, fundraising for their Job Connection Program, and

rooted characteristics of our firm’s culture. adamsandreese.com

Chitwood Charters Offers Classic Trumpy For Sale

By Steven J. Smith

Captain Jerry Chitwood, owneroperator of Chitwood Charters, has spent the last two years refurbishing an historic yacht for which he hopes to find an owner who is as enthusiastic to possess it as he was to bring it back to life.

“Corporate mogul John Kimberly of Kimberly Clark Corporation built the yacht, a 68-foot-long, twinengine Trumpy, in 1958,” Chitwood said. “It was named the Eskimo III. Kimberly was the Bill Gates of his time, financially speaking. So he had the money to work with John Trumpy and Sons to incorporate manufacturing techniques that were years and years ahead of their time.”

in real life — as President Kennedy’s rumored guest aboard the Sequoia — and on film, when the Trumpybuilt Enticer was featured with her in the classic “Some Like It Hot.” Celebrities from the upper echelons of American society — including presidents, media moguls, movie stars and industrialists — have owned, enjoyed or been entertained aboard a Trumpy.

Chitwood added Trumpy was probably most famous for building the U.S.S. Sequoia, known as “the floating White House” — a 104foot, 1925 yacht that has served our presidents since Herbert Hoover. Built for the rich and famous, Trumpy yachts have always reflected a wealthy, glamorous lifestyle. Marilyn Monroe, for example, experienced the Trumpy brand both

“In 1958 they didn’t make fiberglass boats,” Chitwood said. “This is all wood — mahogany and doubleplanked white oak. There were heads of state from other countries and all kinds of very important people on this boat with John Kimberly, joining him on pleasure cruises. Kimberly was the ultimate socialite, so this boat really has a wonderful, palpable sense of history about her.”

John Trumpy was born in Norway, the fourth generation of boat builders in his family. Following naval architect training at home and in Germany, he immigrated to America in 1908, where he worked at boatyards in New York and New Jersey. In 1910 he joined John J. Mathis & Company shipbuilders in Camden, N.J. as a partner and naval architect. After Mathis’ death, he renamed the company after himself and moved it to Annapolis, Md. in 1947. Although Trumpy’s business shuttered in 1973 with the advent of fiberglass, Chitwood said the Trumpy name has always been synonymous with the highest quality in design, style, workmanship and innovation. “A Trumpy-designed yacht is much like a Rolls Royce,” he said. “And I have spent the last two years completely restoring the Eskimo III. The bottom was redone, a 10-month job, then woodworkers spent another year refurbishing every piece of wood, varnish and paint.” Chitwood added the Eskimo III’s machinery and air conditioning has also been renovated, with new electronics installed as well. “It’s an elegant yacht,” he said. “If you pilot this yacht into Fort Lauderdale or Miami marinas, people will come outside their $20 million yachts to take pictures of your boat. Trumpy draws the attention of any admiring yachtsman.” Logging over 40 years of in-and-on the water experience himself, Chitwood proudly operates one of Florida’s most respected yacht charter brokerages.

“We have supplied luxury yachts for short and long term charters for 39 years, from the Hyatt and also Marina Jack,” Captain Chitwood said. “Our cruises range from four-hour and all-day trips to rentals by the week or month.” Popular destinations range from the shell beaches of the barrier islands of Sanibel, Captiva, Boca Grande and Marco Island to ports in Venice, Fort Myers or Naples, he added. Even the Keys or Bahamas as well. “We’ll take you to unspoiled beaches where you can bask in cool ocean breezes,” Chitwood said, “or out to sea, where you can enjoy the curious, playful antics of a friendly porpoise or take a refreshing dip in one of our many secluded bays.” But he’s most excited about finding someone for his Trumpy. “I’m open to people interested in both chartering the Eskimo III for cruises or even purchasing the yacht, which I could manage for them,” he said. “It’s the perfect yacht for corporate parties, weddings and romantic sunset cruises, with fine champagne for the ladies and aged Scotch for the gentlemen.”

For more information about Trumpy yachts — particularly the Trumpy-built U.S.S. Sequoia, visit www.sequoiayacht. com/videos.htm to view two videos about “the Rolls Royce of yachts.” To learn more about Chitwood Charters, call 941-383-5232 or log on to www.chitwood-charters.com.

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DESIGN

TAKE BACK YOUR

Garage By Jacqueline Miller

s your garage a dumping zone? If you answered yes, you’re in good company with many other homeowners in the same predicament. Seriously, having a garage you can’t even park your car in is not only a safety hazard, but when you are ready to sell your home, it will negatively affect your sale price. Perhaps it’s time to invest in a change that will undoubtedly increase the value of your home.

Perhaps it’s time to invest in a change that will undoubtedly increase the value of your home.

So where do you begin? Start by sorting your garage contents into piles and by categories – tools, decorations, sports gear, cleaning items and others. Now, where do they need to be? Low to the ground? Somewhere in the middle or is high up okay? This will help you determine the variety of organization you need relative to drawers, low cabinets, tall cabinets, open spaces, etc. Don’t rule out using your garage ceiling for storage. Adding hooks can help store bikes, beach equipment and more. Finally, you can jazz up your garage by painting the floor a bold color or add mix and match colored floor tiles to create a patterned floor. When it comes to organizational products, shelving, and cabinets, if you really want to do it right and get the max out of your investment, have it designed and installed by a professional. Not only will it help you get your money back when you sell your home, but the life of you and your family will be easier, safer, more convenient and less stressful. Talk to store manager Brent Irish at California Closets’ new Downtown Sarasota showroom at 1411 1st St. (941.366.1315) – what better place to start?

December 2016

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The Philanthropy of

Ernie Kretzmer By Ryan G Van Cleave | Photo by Nancy Guth

It’s easy to see the biggest influence in local arts

Bell Labs. After some wise investments, he found

activist and philanthropist Ernie Kretzmer’s life.

himself in a position where he could afford to

The moment I sat down with him at the Lido

give back. More on that in a bit.

Key home he built when he came to Sarasota in 1989, he immediately took out a Jewish Leader newspaper from February 14, 1957. “There,” he said, pointing at the black-and-white photo of an elegant woman beneath the headline Women’s All-Out Campaign Imperative. “That’s

honor her. His sister chose to make a donation at Brandeis University (where their mother worked

It’s from his parents that Ernie’s deep love of

there. Soon after, he decided to help in a bigger

music emerged. “They played classical musical

way. The conductor was ready to retire but didn’t

all the time,” he said. His father was a better-than-

have a pension, though she did have a storied,

average pianist and violinist. And his mother? He

top-notch violin. Ernie bought it and donated it

admits that she was quite literally tone-deaf, but

back to the group. And from there, he kept on

she still learned how to play piano well enough

finding ways to give back.

he says. “Both were causes she championed.” So much so, in fact, that she worked tirelessly to get her son into a distant polytechnic school

he and his sister wanted to do something to

as a librarian). Ernie donated to the Sarasota

was a big supporter of music and education,”

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after he moved here. When she passed away,

my mother.”

to accompany her husband’s violin playing. “She

Ernie brought his beloved mother to Florida soon

Orchestra and in return, got her name on a brick

While the list of causes and organizations is extensive — he said “well over 60” different ones — he has his favorites. The Sarasota Ballet, Sarasota Orchestra, Sarasota Opera, and

and receive a scholarship so they could afford it.

Florida Studio Theatre top his list, and all have

After leaving his homeland of Germany, Ernie

instance, when the Opera was going through

eventually found himself working as a lab

renovations, he paid to have the orchestra pit

assistant at MIT. While there, a mentor connected

redone. His late wife, Alisa, loved the ballet, so

him with an inventor who had a design problem

he donated a new two-story rehearsal studio

that was right up Ernie’s alley. “I didn’t know

in her name. And most recently, Ernie donated

beans about what to charge,” he said, but the

$500,000 toward the construction of Florida

inventor chose to give him a percentage of sales

Studio Theatre’s Rosemary Artist Housing

in addition to an up-front fee. This led to Ernie

Project, which will create 20 bedrooms in five

tackling another two dozen design challenges for

new townhouses that can be used to house

significant remuneration and a 35-year career at

artists and visitors.

December 2016

received noteworthy support from him. For

December 2016

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W NO

What Ernie likes most about partnering with Gulf Coast Community Foundation on his

Come explore life at the edge of the water, in the center of a true family.

N! PE

philanthropy projects is that they often give to what he gives to. He explains, “Through Gulf Coast, I’m able to magnify my efforts. I’ve been taking advantage of that leverage in spades.” Plus, he notes, they’re terrific, good people who care about the things he cares about, too. Dorathea Sandland, an RN who is Ernie’s

Mark your calendar for these free educational events.

7-day-a-week

personal

caregiver

and

personal assistant, sits in on every meeting

Education Series

he has. She added, “He’s an inspiration to

First Friday of the month, 2 p.m. • Assisted Living Multi-purpose Room December’s topic: “A Healthy Approach to Managing Stress” January’s topic: “Understanding and Coping with a Dementia Diagnosis”

others. They want to follow his example. I even see people coming up to him on the street to say, “Thank you, Mr. Kretzmer.”

Alzheimer’s Support Groups

Group 1: First Thursday of the month, 10 a.m., Compass Lounge (starts Dec. 1) Group 2: Fourth Tuesday of the month, 11 a.m., Multi-purpose Room (starts Nov. 22) Open to couples with Younger Onset Alzheimer’s. Lunch will be served.

She supports him in her own way by

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together. “And he’s very health conscious,”

keeping him healthy and active. Though he still drives at 91, they regularly go biking she explained. “He eats fish most days of the week. Plus he even makes sure I watch myself and my own health. He’s a

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Dorathea even joked about the rigorous schedule the two of them keep. “This Sunday alone,” she reported with a laugh, “we have three separate events to attend. He’s always ready to go, but sometimes I have a hard time keeping up with him!” Whether it’s paying for a much-needed roundabout (such as the one he paid to be

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in Israel, Ernie is always looking to make a difference. If he sees a problem — or

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“He’s always willing to help,” added Dorathea. “That’s the most inspirational thing to me. He simply feels he should do it. That makes me so proud of him.”

George Dakkak, CLU, ChFC 941-921-6630 3629 Webber Street, Suite A Sarasota georgedakkak@allstate.com

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December 2016

Community Foundation, visit gulfcoastcf. org or call 941.486.4600.

104381

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For more information on Gulf Coast

Your Music. Your Orchestra. Your Turn. Your support keeps the music playing. Ticket revenue covers less than 40% of the cost of orchestra concerts, our youth programs and the Sarasota Music Festival. This results in the Orchestra relying on the generous support of donors and sponsors to bridge the financial gap. Please support the Sarasota Orchestra with your tax-deductible gift. 941-487-2743 or SarasotaOrchestra.org

Thank you to SCENE magazine, media sponsor of the Sarasota Orchestra

Rare Instruments Bring Stories of the Holocaust to Life By Sue Cullen

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December 2016

The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee (JFED) is bringing a very special series of events to Sarasota this season with Violins of Hope February 1 through 16. The events feature violins, lovingly restored by an Israeli luthier, that were played by Jewish musicians during the Holocaust. The community will have the opportunity to experience the beauty and poignancy of the instruments and to be inspired by their testament to the human spirit, resiliency and hope. The violins’ journey began 20 years ago in Tel Aviv in the workshop of Amnon Weinstein, a second-generation Israeli violinmaker, when he began restoring Holocaust-era violins and preserving their heritage. Since that time he and now also his son, Avshi, have located and restored 60 violins. Amid the horror of the Nazi camps, music was both a source of comfort and also of resistance for many musicians who perished as well as for those who survived. Today, those same violins give voice to the voiceless “by telling their stories, preserving the history of the Holocaust, and honoring the survival of the Jewish people,” according to JFED’s announcement of the events. For the Weinsteins, the purpose behind their efforts is highly personal. “It’s like a memorial to the memory of, first of all my family, and then to the six million (who perished). The violin didn’t change from 1500 when it was created in Italy. We are playing on the same instruments, with some improvements, but (it is) the same sound people had in the Second World War in the last minute of their lives,” says Amnon Weinstein, who lost 400 members of his family in the Holocaust. “It was the last human sound that they heard. So if you’re coming to a concert and you can feel the violins, you can hear something that is talking for all this lost generation.” Weinstein’s parents had emigrated from Eastern Europe to Palestine in 1938 where his father opened

a violin shop. Following World War II, they learned the extended family they left behind all had lost their lives during the Holocaust. The pain of this loss prompted Weinstein to seek a way to honor those who had been killed. He began hearing stories about the lives of Jewish violinists being spared, including one customer who survived the Holocaust because his job was to play violin while Nazi soldiers marched others to their deaths, according to the violinsofhopecle.org website. “With the passage of time, the rescuers, the liberators and the survivors are naturally dwindling in numbers. We are transitioning from living memory to historical memory, and that places a great burden of responsibility on the rest of us,” says Howard Tevlowitz, JFED’s Executive Director. “As the witnesses to the witnesses, we carry the moral obligation of memory. The Violins of Hope will serve as a voice for those who can no longer speak and as a tool to carry on the moral obligation of remembering.” The Violins of Hope have traveled the world, including Berlin, Paris, Rome, Monaco, Istanbul and London, according to Avshi Weinstein. Stops in the U.S. have included Charlotte, N.C., and Cleveland. “The violins are the voices of their owners and stories, and the voices of the klezmer culture, which was extinct during the war,” Avshi says. “It has the power to tell small stories and make you hear the voice, a voice that many times saved the player and his family.” Klezmer is a musical tradition of Eastern European Jews, and the Nazi guards, seeking entertainment for themselves, sought Jewish prisoners who could play an instrument, a talent that preserved many of their lives. Sixteen of the violins will be here, and residents will have a number of opportunities to experience the stories of their owners and to hear them as they are played at various venues by Perlman Music Program/ Suncoast alumni, members of the Sarasota Orchestra, and the Presidential String Quartet from State College of Florida (SCF). Opening night on February 1 features

December 2016

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“We hope that they will see that there are individual stories, there is hope, and that music can be a powerful tool and help people even in the darkest of hours. And the most important thing is that you need to find a language to talk to each other, rather than fight.” Israeli violin virtuoso Shlomo Mintz as featured soloist and 38 members of the Sarasota Orchestra at 8 p.m. at the Ritz Carlton Sarasota. Henry Winkler, of Happy Days fame and more recently on the cast of NBC’s Better Late than Never, will make opening remarks. Other concerts include February 9 at 7:30 p.m. with SCF’s Presidential String Quartet at Neel Auditorium on the SCF Bradenton campus, February 13 at 7 p.m. with Perlman Music Program/Suncoast alumni at First United Methodist Church in downtown Sarasota, and February 16 at 7 p.m. with Perlman Music Program/ Suncoast alumni at Temple Beth Sholom. A Conversation with Amnon Weinstein and James A Grymes will be held on February 6, 7 p.m., at Riverview High School and February 7, 10:30 a.m., at Temple Beth Israel on Longboat Key. Grymes is a musicologist at the University of North Carolina who was instrumental in bringing the violins to Charlotte for their first exhibition in the U.S. He is author of the book Violins of Hope: Instruments of Hope and Liberation in Mankind’s Darkest Hour. Grymes and Weinstein will explore the history of several of the violins, including the complex role they played during the Holocaust. Audiences also will hear the violins played by the Perlman Music Program/ Suncoast alumni. Weinstein also plans to take the violins to local public and parochial schools to give students the opportunity to hear their stories and to use them as a vehicle for studying the Holocaust. Violins of Hope is presented by the Mazur Family Fund, and JFED is hosting the visit by Weinstein, his wife, and son, Avshi. They have attended many opening nights and exhibitions of the violins, talking with attendees and learning their reactions. “Usually they are very much stunned as this is a way of showing a whole different aspect of the

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December 2016

Luthier, Amnon Weinstein Holocaust,” Avshi says. “It gives personal stories and shows you things that belonged to real people at the time, and yet you can hear their voices as well. This is a unique experience for many people and gives a very strong effect.” While it is difficult to grasp the magnitude of 6 million lives taken in such brutal fashion, the violins and the stories that survive with them are reminders of very real people whose lives were cut short. “We hope that they will see that there are individual stories, there is hope, and that music can be a powerful tool and help people even in the darkest of hours,” Amnon Weinstein says. “And the most important thing is that you need to find a language to talk to each other, rather than fight.” For more information, visit jfedsrq.org/violins-of-hope, or call 941.343.2113 or 866.465.3995 for tickets.

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Coloring Lives By Ryan G Van Cleave | Photo by John Revisky

The Keith D. and Linda L. Monda Gallery for Contemporary Art Keith Monda — the former president and COO of Coach, Inc. — is proud to call Sarasota home. He came to Sarasota for the first time in the 1950s and was impressed by both the Gulf of Mexico and the sheer beauty of the area. Over the years, he and his wife, Linda, continued to visit and vacation here, though they also frequented other Florida cities. “Yet none measured up,” he reports. “Sarasota was always at the top of the charts not only for its natural beauty but also its interesting culturally-oriented community. It affords one the opportunity to participate. This is a community that cares a lot.” So when it came time to relocate from New York City, Sarasota was the place. “It met all of our criteria. The only thing we were disappointed in,” he says, “was how it had a tale of two cities. So many people had a wonderful life while in many parts of the same city, young children weren’t getting by.” And that fact motivated the Mondas to take an active role in philanthropy designed to remedy the situation. They wanted everyone to have a chance. To that end, they devote their energies to three principal areas: children, education, and conservation. Keith says, “Sure, we get involved in other areas, but we always bring it back to those three things.” Those areas allow them a pretty wide range of philanthropic

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December 2016

opportunities. For example, Keith works with All Faiths Food Bank, where he was the co-creator of the annual Campaign Against Summer Hunger program, along with Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s Veronica Brady and All Faiths Food Bank’s Sandra Frank. This past summer, through backpack programs and food pantries, the program touched more than 30,000 kids. He is also Chair of the Board of Directors of Feeding America, the national network of food banks to which All Faiths belongs. “Food insecurity across the country is something we have to change,” he insists. “We are looking forward to working in collaboration with other organizations in the public, private, and independent sectors to create a hunger-free America.” The Mondas are involved with Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, as well. Each year, they support bringing New York City students to Mote over the summer to learn about the environment. Being a graduate of Ohio State University (OSU), Keith also annually funds 50 OSU students to travel abroad to gain a global perspective. These young adults are often the first in their family to attend college, and more than a few have never been on a plane. “Helping them create a world view is incredibly important,” says Keith. The most recent philanthropic effort for the Mondas is at The Ringling where their

$500,000 gift supports The Ringling’s Art of Our Time programming. The Keith D. and Linda L. Monda Gallery for Contemporary Art is a 2,400-square foot gallery space that showcases exciting new work by living artists. The space — located in the West Wing of the Museum of Art — was intentionally made to be flexible to allow for artists who move beyond traditional practice in the conceptualization, creation, and exhibition of their work, whether it’s visual or performative. The space is easily able to accommodate new media, video, and project-based exhibits.

“I’ve been following contemporary and modern art for more than three decades — a big part of my life,” admits Keith. “It’s been a great counterbalance to the stress of my work environment.” What he likes about it is its unstructured nature. It permits the viewer’s mind to go to a different place than it might have otherwise traveled. “This is critically important for young minds. It exposes them to new places and things. It invites them to think in ways they might not otherwise have.” Linda adds, “It’s important to use your imagination when looking at art. Seeing colors and concepts. Relating it to your own life.”

Keith notes that the first artist whose work appears in the gallery was a pleasant surprise. “If you asked 100 people what the first installation should be, no one would have guessed the one The Ringling chose.” That installation is American artist Anne Patterson’s site-specific work “Pathless Woods,” which invites viewers to experience the world through her eyes. Since she has synesthesia — a neurological phenomenon that blends one sense into another, such as seeing colors when one hears music — this becomes a surprising experience. “It’s something that’s really tough to describe without seeing,” Patterson herself explains. “It’s like swimming through color.”

“Going through it multiple times is a changing experience,” says Linda about the installation that uses 15-foot strips of satin ribbon — 24 miles of it! — arranged by color and draped to the ground from ropes overhead. Colored lights, projections, and music complete the multimedia experience that allows visitors to find their own path through the ocean of ribbons. The Mondas aren’t 100% certain of the first time they visited The Ringling. Linda thinks it’s 1971. Keith thinks it might have been a year or two later. Regardless, they’ve been following The Ringling for decades and deeply appreciate its December 2016

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Pathless Woods, an installation by Anne Patterson that will be up until early May, 2017 in the Keith D. and Linda L. Monda Gallery for Contemporary Art at The Ringling

Since she has synesthesia — a neurological phenomenon that blends one sense into another, such as seeing colors when one hears music — this becomes a surprising experience. “It’s something that’s really tough to describe without seeing,” Patterson herself explains. “It’s like swimming through color.” community commitment. Donating money to Art of Our Time was, in Keith’s mind, “an opportunity to help them establish a permanent commitment to contemporary and modern art, which we view as an important part of any museum’s agenda.” About their philanthropic efforts in general, the Mondas explain, “We pick the things that are important to us. It’d be wonderful if others picked the same things, too. But my point is this — we all need to pick something. I encourage everyone who has been blessed to find their passion and then find a way to give back. Time, talent, treasure, and touch — it all makes a difference.”

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December 2016

For more information on The Ringling, please visit theringling.org or call 941.359.5700.

Back Row (from left to right): Bob Essner, Anne Essner, Dr. Rick Moskovitz, Nancy Moskovitz and Jim Ericson. Front Row (from left to right): Elizabeth Moore, Dr. Michael P. Crosby, Maurice Cunniffe and Carolyn Cunniffe.

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December 2016

Making

WAVES By Sue Cullen | Photo by Nancy Guth

Moteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leadership Circle Helps Spur Positive Change

December 2016

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Philanthropic giving often arises from altruism, the desire to enhance the welfare of others, and that noble goal is matched by philanthropy’s ability to demonstrate the collective power of working together to achieve real-world change for the better. Nowhere has that been more evident than with the phenomenal success of Mote Marine Laboratory’s $50 million fundraising campaign, Oceans of Opportunity, which soared beyond that lofty goal in less than a year to raise an eye-popping $51,736,582. Now, with funding secured through monies raised and with future pledges, Mote has the foundation to achieve the objectives outlined in its 2020 Vision and Strategic Plan and to enlarge its vision for the future. Just as with the 2020 plan, Mote is thinking big, and the bold plans that are being created will impact the local area. For Oceans of Opportunity, every donation, quite literally, was vital to the campaign’s success, from people who rounded up the cost of their Aquarium admission by a few cents to help fund the campaign to the 11 donors who led the way with significant contributions of $1 million or more. Those donors, members of Mote’s Leadership Circle, include five anonymous benefactors along with Carol and Barney Barnett, the Rick and Nancy Moskovitz Foundation, Elizabeth Moore, James and Pati Ericson, Robert and Anne Essner, and Maurice and Carolyn Cunniffe. “I am continually amazed and humbled by the generosity of the community," says Bob Essner, Chair of the Oceans of Opportunity campaign and Leadership Circle member. "Through this campaign Mote received support from all over the country and internationally from a wide variety of donors. I don't only think of this as a financial success, but as a huge success in connecting our local community with others around the world who all believe in one goal: to save our oceans. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for allowing us to incite change. It would not have been possible without each and every one of you, and I really mean that.”

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December 2016

“We are all connected to the ocean, and I am a firm believer that we must be good stewards of our Earth and our oceans, which are one of our most precious resources.” – Elizabeth Moore Essner got interested in Mote’s mission about seven years ago. A friend was involved with Mote’s aquaculture effort and asked him to help look for ways to improve its caviar business. Likewise, the Barnetts became engaged by Mote’s fisheries programs. They donated $3 million to help Mote launch a major Fisheries Conservation and Enhancement Initiative, which is focused on tagging and releasing thousands of snook raised in its land-based recirculating aquaculture systems to replenish wild snook populations. Tracking the fish will help determine their preferred habitats, which in turn will help resource managers work to support those fish through habitat improvements. “We are very interested in everything that impacts the marine world and all of the research Mote conducts. In particular, we’re interested in what they’re doing to improve the fisheries not only here in Sarasota, but around the world,” says Barney Barnett. “We support organizations that incorporate children and our oceans because our environment is very important to kids, and we want to keep this water in a way that our grandkids will be able to enjoy it.” Another crucial project with the potential to have global impact on ocean fisheries is the Mote Tropical Research Lab on Summerland Key in the Florida Keys. Scientists there have made significant

breakthroughs that could restore precious coral reefs. The reefs are dying due to rising water temperatures and increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide that raises acidity levels as it is absorbed into ocean waters. Loss of the reefs, which provide food, breeding grounds and shelter for many species, would lead to a collapse in many of the world’s fisheries. Elizabeth Moore, who is a leadership donor for the new research facility to replace the existing 45-year-old structure, gave $1 million to further this crucial research. Mote scientists have discovered a micro-fragmentation and re-skinning process that allows coral to grow 25 to 40 times faster than previous methods, giving real hope of restoring slow-growing reef building corals and finding new ways to deal with the challenges of oceans that will continue to warm and become increasingly acidic. The new LEEDcertified building will more than double Mote’s research and education space. “We are all connected to the ocean, and I am a firm believer that we must be good stewards of our Earth and our oceans, which are one of our most precious resources,” says Moore, who is a Mote trustee. “Seeing the work done at Mote reminds me that it is our responsibility to share the world and protect its many species and resources, especially one that we all depend on for every other breath we take. I’m fortunate to be able to take action that will make an impact for future generations.” While some donations were earmarked for specific projects, most were dedicated more generally for application to Mote’s 2020 Vision and Strategic Plan and to support new and promising research that may emerge in the future. Other current research efforts encompass life-saving drugs from the sea, which includes the search for new antibiotics that may help address superbugs that are resistant to today’s antibiotics. Mote research also includes development of potential new therapies to fight 15 types of cancer.

Continued support and enhancement of its education and outreach efforts aimed at increasing ocean literacy remains an important initiative. Goals also include spurring long-term growth in its endowment to ensure a sustainable future for Mote. Looking beyond the 2020 plan, Mote has an even greater vision for its City Island campus in Sarasota. “Now that Mote is able to advance its research enterprise, we will be looking at how we can accommodate such growth,” says Dr. Michael Crosby, Mote President and CEO. “Our vision for the future includes the evolution of this Sarasota campus into an international marine science, technology and innovation park that will bring together Mote scientists with other researchers and entrepreneurs from around the world.” Mote’s leadership is envisioning something like a Silicon Valley for marine sciences. The objective is to drive longterm sustainability of the ocean biome and to fuel the expansion of this region’s blue economy, Crosby says. To achieve that, Mote will need a new, sixth campus on the mainland on which to build an informal marine science education center and aquarium to share Mote research and reach more people to enhance ocean literacy. Key to the success of this endeavor will be the generosity of Mote’s many supporters whose contributions will propel the vision toward reality. If the success of Mote’s $50 million Oceans of Opportunity campaign is any indication, there is cause for optimism in continuing progress toward its future vision. Mote’s initiatives resonated with more than 24,000 donors worldwide, many of whom were from within the local community and the region. “Mote would not be the outstanding world-class, independent marine research institution it is today without the incredible support of our community,” Crosby says. “We are overwhelmed with gratitude and sincerely want to thank everyone who has helped propel Mote forward by contributing to the Oceans of Opportunity campaign. Their support is making all of this possible and creating a better environment today and for future generations to come.” If you would like to learn more about Mote Marine Laboratory and the Oceans of Opportunity campaign, please call 941.388.4441 or visit mote.org.

374 St Armands Circle 941.388.1964 - www.ohmygauze.com Proud Local Owners Scott and Stan McGowan

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Ima gine...

OPENING DOORS FOR CHILDREN TO

By Sue Cullen | Photo by John Revisky

VAN WEZEL DONORS SUPPORT HALL PROGRAMMING AND UPKEEP, BUT ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S THE SIZZLING PERFORMANCES AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR CHILDREN THAT IGNITE THEIR PHILANTHROPIC PASSION.

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December 2016

ONE OF THE KEY ELEMENTS THAT HAS HELPED BUILD THE AREA’S REPUTATION AS FLORIDA’S CULTURAL COAST OVER THE PAST FIVE DECADES IS THE VAN WEZEL PERFORMING ARTS HALL. WITH ITS PROUDLY PURPLE EXTERIOR AND INTRIGUING SEASHELL SHAPE, THE HALL HAS BEEN A DEFINING PRESENCE ALONG SARASOTA’S BAYFRONT. THE PURPLE PEOPLE SEATER, AS IT WAS DUBBED IN THE EARLY DAYS, ALSO HAS A MAGNETISM THAT ATTRACTS DEVOTED DONORS WHO HAVE STEPPED UP TO ENSURE TOP-NOTCH PROGRAMMING AND CHILDREN’S EDUCATION EFFORTS ARE SUPPORTED THROUGH THE VAN WEZEL FOUNDATION. “In my experience, when people are new to

priority,” Martella says. “It is our obligation

Society level of $25,000 and above. “Our

the city, there are so many options to choose

to help young children experience things that

concierge service starts at the $3,000 level,

from that it can be overwhelming and they

may change the course of their lives. With the

but we appreciate donors who give at all

don’t get involved right away,” says Monica

constant cutting of school budgets, children

levels,” she says. “We have many donors

Van Buskirk, President and CEO of the Van

will not have the opportunity they once had

who give $100, and they also are vital to

Wezel Foundation. “When we reach out to

in school to experience art culture. Supporting

our education programs and the support we

people, they feel the theater embraces them.

the Van Wezel is an investment in the future

give for discounted tickets for the elderly.”

We are a very good place to get involved

of our children.” Every year, more than 27,000

because we have something for everyone,

children are supported to attend mainstage

The Foundation also initiated a limited-

and we are very friendly. Initially they are

shows, such as the recent performance of

time President’s Society for a $5,000

attracted to our extraordinary programming

Pete the Cat, and teachers are supplied with

donation that includes private dinners

with A-list people like Jay Leno, Jerry

classroom tools to support art-based learning

offering a peek at the hall’s inner workings,

Seinfeld, Steve Martin and Martin Short.”

including study guides, learning modules

behind-the-scenes tours and more. “We

with detailed lesson plans, recommended

have so many donors who are interested

reading lists, and suggested activities.

in supporting inspiring new programming

The Van Wezel Foundation not only supports bringing a broad spectrum of cross-cultural

for children,” Van Buskirk says. “The

programming to the hall, it helps with the

“Once they get involved, our donors see

President’s Society started last year, and

never-ending upkeep of a nearly 50-year-

how exciting it is for children who are new to

we didn’t know it would be so popular. We

old building on the waterfront, and has

theater. It opens their world to an imaginary

already have 22 members, and we have 44

a comprehensive education program for

world they can’t get anywhere else. Live

donors at the Inspiration Society level.”

children. “I have been involved with the

theatre is a conduit to a lot of creativity off

Van Wezel since 2008. I became involved

stage,” Van Buskirk says. “We serve many

Looking to future needs, the Foundation

because I feel it is a great venue with

pre-K to third grade children, which is not

has been actively involved in the Bayfront

many very good and various shows, and I

a segment that is well-served here. You

20:20 initiative, which is a group of local

really love it,” says board member Herta

should see their faces; they are so in awe.

stakeholders hoping to build support for

Cuneo, who has been a long-time supporter

When Josh Groban was here, he said on

a shared vision for 42 acres of downtown

of the Foundation. “I love the way they

stage that if he hadn’t gone to performances

bayfront property. With an aging venue,

involve children, and the programs they

with his teachers, he would not have gone

the Van Wezel Foundation must look to the

offer to bring children to the theater. I

the direction he did.” One donor even paid

future as well. “The City of Sarasota will

believe it is a very worthwhile organization

to bring choreographer Alvin Ailey here to

always have opportunities to repurpose

for which to spend extra money.”

work with children in whom he has a keen

our beloved Van Wezel building on the

interest, which include children from low-

waterfront,” Van Buskirk says. “We are

income families and those with disabilities.

bursting at the seams now, and we need

The Van Wezel Foundation’s involvement with children also enticed long-time board

room to grow with the organization. It is our

member and past board chair Mike Martella

The Van Wezel Foundation has seen

view that we are stewards of the Van Wezel

and his wife, Kathy, to get involved. They

tremendous success of its Annual Friends

and must watch out for its best interests.”

have been Inspiration Society donors for three

Society, which offers increasing levels of

years. “For me and my family, helping young

involvement for donations ranging from the

children get exposed to the arts culture is a

$3,000 Performer level to the Inspiration

To learn more about the Van Wezel Foundation, call 941.366.5578 or visit vwfoundation.org. December 2016

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TOO LIFE

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December 2016

Local Nonprofit On National Stage in Fight against Human Trafficking

By Sue Cullen

More Too Life’s mission to end sexual violence and all types of human trafficking has been garnering statewide and national attention, while the nonprofit continues its comprehensive approach to address the issue locally with direct services and indirect services on a national level. More Too Life not only continues to develop curriculum to reach victims and highrisk youth, but also works through innovative education and outreach to win minds and hearts by creating an understanding that those in the world’s “oldest profession” are victims themselves, 95 percent of whom were violated as children. “We need to change the myth that prostitution is the world’s oldest profession,” says Dr. Brook Bello, More Too Life’s CEO/Executive Director. “It has never been a profession.” One recent initiative aimed at changing that perception brings More Too Life’s volunteer, state approved and court appointed Restorative Justice End Demand program – aimed at educating men about sexual violence – to Harvest House, which takes a multi-faceted approach to homelessness. “The men have stated it’s the best course they have taken there,” Bello says. “They were moved and touched by what they learned and had never understood the issue before from the perspective as men and fathers or father figures.”

a short version of the film Sold. The Hero Effect features Bello who was chosen as one of 10 heroes across the nation, and that episode will air on the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) at 10 a.m. on January 14. Sold is about a young girl’s escape from trafficking and was directed by Academy Award winner Jeffrey D. Brown, produced by Emma Thompson and stars Gillian Anderson and David Arquette. More Too Life has first rights to screen the film in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Bello and her friend and mentor, actor Jon Voight, have partnered with Ringling College, Semkhor and actor Dylan McDermott, on McDermott’s Sugar project. Sugar (moretoosugar.com) is a web series, filmed in Sarasota, whose goal is to raise awareness about women’s rights through the eyes of a 15-year-old girl. More Too Life now provides a sexual violence prevention curriculum to be used at colleges nationally, beginning with 120 college campuses through Sober Online Solutions, a local organization taking a national approach to drug and alcohol prevention. More Too Life also is looking to aid women headed into the prison system. “Many prostituted persons are women trafficked as children and never rescued,” she says. “It is cheaper, and more effective, to put them in a program with housing than to put them in prison.”

More Too Life has a focused initiative, working with as many as 1,500 youth every year on prevention or as a bridge to victim services. From left to right: Laura McIntyre, Jay Berman, New Board Chair Sheila Brion, Dr. Brook Bello, Dr. Rick Ver Helst, Anne Gaines & non board member VP of Programs Derek Thompson. Board not pictured: Christine Goodall, Dr. Carroll A Baltimore, Mechelle Wilder and Emily Lapchick Pasnak.

More Too Life (941.227.1012/moretoolife.org) has a focused initiative, working with as many as 1,500 youth every year on prevention or as a bridge to victim services, and it now has launched an internet safety and sexual violence prevention initiative for teens approved by Sarasota County Schools. The nonprofit provides services to survivors and has aided 50 young adult victims of human trafficking and sexual violence so far this year. More Too Life is opening a new home in Sarasota in January for homeless victims in partnership with Community Assisted and Supported Living, called the Not Forgotten Project. An opportunity to support More Too Life’s mission and goals is coming up at an evening gala on January 10 at the Sarasota CinéBistro. The evening will include a special screening of United Way Worldwide’s and Dolphin Entertainment’s The Hero Effect, followed by a short discussion and the screening of

Bello’s efforts earned her recognition as the 2016 Advocate of the Year for Florida, named by Attorney General Pam Bondi, and she has been named an advisory member of the NoVo Foundation, which was established by the Buffett family and has become one of the largest private foundations worldwide to focus explicitly on initiatives for girls and women. “We are hoping more people will come to our fundraiser or reach out to us to learn more about our efforts. We were the first organization in Sarasota and Manatee to address issues of human trafficking, but 95 percent of our funding comes from outside Florida,” Bello says. “It is our hope to engage more people locally to partner with us to end all forms of sexual violence and exploitation. With that support, we believe we have the national voice, experience and innovation to win the fight to see every child free and to prevent other young people from ever being harmed.” December 2016

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Friends & Neighbors

on a Mission By Steven J. Smith | Photo by John Revisky

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December 2016

Tom Towler and Nancy Lyon, both residents of Plymouth Harbor on Sarasota Bay, found each other several years ago through the common loss of their spouses and since have become part of a driving force in the organization’s internal philanthropic efforts to preserve and improve their unique, tightly knit community. Towler is a member of The Plymouth Harbor Foundation Board of Trustees and Lyon was exposed to the board and its philanthropy through her association with him. “It’s a foundation that respects everybody and lets you use your own funds to do an awful lot of things,” Towler said. “Nancy and I have raised funds here and we’re interested in helping Plymouth Harbor go forward as a leading edge retirement community.” Towler added that in addition to a recently completed $1 million wellness center and a $1 million revitalization of a theater venue called Pilgrim Hall, the foundation has also committed to support the construction, now underway, of a $35 million addition that will add 10 new two-bedroom luxury residences, 30 new assisted living apartments, and 30 new memory care accommodations for individuals with dementia. Its completion date is projected for November of next year. “We have a nursing and rehabilitation center here also,” Towler said, “but the new addition will increase our overall health care services. I’ve been on a lot of boards. You could say I’ve got a passion for volunteering. In addition to the Sarasota Memorial Hospital Healthcare Foundation Board, I’ve served on the New College Foundation Board, the Field Club and Bay Plaza boards. I have always been on the foundation side, raising money. Plymouth Harbor has turned out to be the right place at the right time and their foundation is a particularly wonderful one. We call Plymouth Harbor the country club of all country clubs.” Lyon hails from Long Island and retired to Sarasota about 20 years ago. Towler is originally from Dayton, Ohio and took up residence in Plymouth Harbor in 2009. The two first worked together, along with their spouses,

on the Sarasota Memorial Hospital Healthcare Foundation Board. “I lost my husband, then Tom eventually lost his wife,” Lyon said. “I contacted him with a condolence call and were already friends. Since then, we’ve become partners.” Lyon added it is their pleasure to work within the Plymouth Harbor community and identify potential donors that will help financially support the foundation’s projects. The Plymouth Harbor Foundation was established in 2012 “to further ensure the appropriate stewardship of contributed funds, develop and implement fundraising strategies that support the most positive aging experience possible for our residents and to provide funding for innovative aging programs and services in the region,” according to its website. Its resident population, their families, employees, and philanthropists in the broader community, it adds, have donated more than $16,000,000 to perpetuate what it calls the Plymouth Harbor mission, which is built upon “pillars of value” that align with three funds it supports: Resident Assistance, Employee Assistance, and Zest For Life. The Resident Assistance fund supports those who have outlived their financial resources; the Employee Assistance fund aids Plymouth Harbor employees who have experienced economic hardship or wish to advance their education; and the Zest For Life fund looks to preserve quality of life for residents while providing best practices and research into aging services. “Plymouth Harbor residents have a great deal of input as to the things that go on here,” Lyon added. “As legacy members — people who have had family here before us — we really feel our input is quite valued. We are well taken care of here.” December 2016

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Best of Scenes from an Interview It has been an honor and privilege to interview very interesting, passionate, talented and fabulous people all who have ties to our beloved community. In the 75 “Scenes from An Interview” features that we have produced over the years, I have gotten to know great artists, enlightening entrepreneurs, giving philanthropists and just “plain good people” who make our town such a spectacular place to live and our community one that is built on incredible philanthropy. By giving their unique insights, and sharing their intellect as well as a little bit of their hearts with me, they made me think, laugh and even cry as we took a look at some captivating and moving scenes from their lives. And from each one of them, I not only learned something about their fascinating lives, but I learned something about myself. I am happy to share that over the years many of my interview subjects have become dear friends, and for that I will be forever grateful. So as this is the end of another year, please indulge me as I share some of my most memorable moments from some of my favorite “Scenes from an Interview.” 84

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December 2016

By Gus Mollasis

Philanthropist Betty Schoenbaum from 2010 on philanthropy and the joy of giving. What has philanthropy taught you about yourself and the world? It’s taught me to give while you live, so you can see what good your money is doing. It has brought me the greatest inner feeling in the world of helping other people. It transcends everything except the joy I receive from my personal family.

Why are you a philanthropist for so many causes? I give for the needy – mainly human needs – and education. That comes from my grandmother, who instilled in me to give to those in need. I God bless her memory every night.

Broadcaster and Philanthropist Dick Vitale from 2012 on helping kids fight cancer in honor of his pal Jimmy Valvano, who died of bone cancer at age 47. For many, you will be most remembered for your work regarding the JIMMY V Foundation. Is your work there what you are most proud of in your life? Absolutely. To bring a smile to a child’s face is gratifying. We have many parents who have lost their children and we have $500,000 that we put into research in their children’s names. We tell them we can’t bring their children back but we can make sure that your child is helping other kids. To see the look on their faces. Just yesterday I spoke with a dad whose child has cancer and when you hear the pain in their voice, it tears your insides. Hardly a day goes by where I won’t get a call from someone who wants me to give someone a call of encouragement. One time, I was heading around the country during basketball season rushing around, and a man wanted me to talk with a family, and their little girl Lucy, who had cancer. And I procrastinated. I hate that word. It was the night before Thanksgiving, and my wife was with me in the car, and it hit me that I had not called. I had to call this fellow. I headed into my office and made the call. “Mr. Webber, this is Dickie Vitale, and I am calling about Lucy. I just want to tell you that my heart and prayers are with you and please try to convince Lucy to keep fighting. I could hear silence on the other end of the phone. And then I heard him say, “Thank you so much, but tonight, I’m going to the funeral service for my little girl.” I was stunned. I started to cry. “Mr. Webber, I don’t know what to say, but I will promise you this. We will not forget your little girl.” We had the Webbers come to the event that year, and in the name of their little girl Lucy, $500,000 was donated to fight cancer. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house. And this year they are coming back to the event. December 2016

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Big Sister Louise Harrison from 2014 on music, life and her little brother – Beatle George Harrison. Much of the Beatles music has an innocence and sweetness that seems to be missing in much of today’s music. Do you agree? That whole innocence, maybe naiveté as well, was very prevalent. They weren’t cynical. There was no cynicism. They were genuinely excited and enthusiastic by what they could do and wanted to do it to the best of their ability at all times. I remember being backstage at a big concert they were doing in Cleveland or Detroit. I was in the dressing room with George and he was tuning the guitar. I said to him, “Why are you bothering to do that because no one’s going to able to hear you with all the screaming?” It was about two minutes before they were going to go on. And he said, “I always have this scary feeling that one day they just might stop screaming and I’ll be out of tune.”

Before your brother sadly passed away, you visited him in the hospital and said your goodbyes. Please tell me about that if you can. From the way his life turned out, the fame and fortune did turn out to be so hollow. It was totally empty to him. He was ready to leave as he said in his song “My Sweet Lord, I really want to see you, I really want to be with you.” Get me out of here. So when I did see him that last time, I was happy that he was getting to the point when he could be relieved of the stress of this almost meaningless charade that he was going through. The great thing that he had in his life was his son. That was a wonderful part of his life. He also had a lot of good friends that he was grateful for, but he was ready to leave. There were always a lot of people tugging at him, as if they were singing “Got to get you into my life.” There weren’t a lot of things in his life that he perceived as being real.

Marilyn Monroe’s close friend, Amy Greene, from 2015 on a very special night and on being Marilyn’s friend. Do you feel that you provided Marilyn with a stable family life, which she lacked in her childhood? We brought her into our life. We never went into her life, because she had no life. So our New York life became her New York life. One night, we took her to Gloria Vanderbilt’s glorious apartment at 10 Gracie Square. Fifteen rooms. Absolutely beautiful. Everything was perfection. On this night, we brought Jule Styne, Sammy Davis Jr., and Marilyn. Not bad. And who was there when we arrived but Harold Arlen. Marilyn kept raving about the place saying, “Let me see the bedroom. Look at this place, it’s a palace.” An hour or two later, she came up to me and said, “Tell Jule to sit at the piano. I feel like singing. I’m so happy.” In the middle of the room there was this glorious Steinway. He was there in an instant. I wish I had a recording of this evening. It was Sammy Davis Jr., Marilyn, and Jule Styne at Gloria Vanderbilt’s home singing Harold Arlen songs. The room became silent and everybody stood like stone where they were seated because they knew they never were going to hear this again.

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December 2016

Artist Gale Fulton Ross from 2010 on the definition of Art. What is Art to you? Art is long, life is short. Art will live long after we are gone. If the art reflects the current times we live in, it is my job and purpose to paint my experience that was true. In my images everyone’s not happy or beautiful, but it’s not stereotypical either. It’s life. I say, if we all want to experience life in its best way, we don’t see color and we don’t fear what is somebody else’s culture. Art for me is the BEST, and DEEPEST, and TRUEST part of humanity.

Jazz Pianist/Composer Dick Hyman from 2012 on his introduction to music. Describe your childhood growing up. I had a big brother, six years older, who showed me how the keyboards worked and who taught me how to play Chopsticks (plays Chopsticks). He showed me where the black keys are, where the white keys are, and kind of how they went together. I had a mother who played and sang and I had an uncle who was a concert pianist in the 1920s and 1930s and he eventually gave me some lessons. So it was a musical family, and as a little kid I would hide under the piano and listen to the sounds.

December 2016

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Author John Jakes from 2016 on getting history right. You’re considered one of the most respected authors of historical fiction. What is the secret to your formula? I start out with the old rule that most commercial writers or good writers do, and that’s to tell a good story. You’ve got to have the story. I got interested in history when I started writing the Bicentennial Series (eight novels known as The Kent Chronicles) in 1974 after years of doing all sorts of things. Back then, I made a pledge to myself that if I ever carried this on, I would try to make the historical angle as authentic as possible. There was a movie years ago in which General Custer was kind of an apologist for slavery. That stuck in my mind. And I thought that’s not the kind of history I want to convey. If I tell anybody about it, it ought to be the most truthful way I could find of telling the story. I’ve always stuck with this when writing historical fiction. Tell a good story and don’t falsify the record.

Sarasota Film Festival President & Entrepreneur Mark Famiglio from 2013 on lessons learned from mom and dad. What was the most important thing you ever learned from your parents? I certainly learned the value of hard work. I’ve learned the advantage of being fastidious, being thoughtful about expenses and leveraging. That I learned from my dad. From my mom, I learned a lot of domestic tools. I cook. I clean. For years and years, I took care of myself, and I take a lot of pride in running my own household. You hear this a lot, and it’s very simple. My dad used to say to me, “Whenever you walk into a room, always leave it a little better than when you went in.” It’s simple, but he was serious. He really meant it as a metaphor for everything in life.

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December 2016

Entertainer Ben Vereen from 2015 on the issue of homelessness. Film, theater and TV can shed light on important issues. Recently your role in the film Time Out of Mind earned you high praise and was one of those teachable moments that shined the light on the plight of the homeless. What did that film teach you? I have never been in the skin of the homeless. I have sympathy and a fear that one day it may be me. My want is to strengthen those who are empowered to make a difference so that if that ever happens to me, my neighbor, my family, friends or anybody, that we are able to have a system in place to help them. There are also mental problems when dealing with the homeless, and we need to have services available to help them so they don’t fall through the cracks. Utah has a program in which they put the homeless in homes and give them the services they need so that they can become a viable part of society. It gives them back their dignity and helps families. It seems to be working. They have saved money and they are becoming less of a burden. This is being done by a philanthropist who had an idea and made it work.

TV Director & Producer John Moffitt from 2015 on the Rolling Stones and Robin Williams.

You had an opportunity to direct the Rolling Stones that almost didn’t happen. Can you paint that picture for us? I was a director, and we were in Television City about to tape the Stones. We got word that somebody at the gate didn’t know who the Stones were, and that they were upset and going to leave. So I ran as fast as I could to the parking lot, and they were getting into their limo and starting to leave. I threw myself on the hood of the car. Thank God they stopped. I pleaded with them and said, “Guys this is my big chance to actually direct you. Don’t do this to us. Everybody here loves you. Don’t leave because some guard made one stupid statement.” I persuaded them to get out of the car and actually got to tape three numbers with them.

Regarding Robin Williams, what can you tell me about this special talent we lost way too soon? He was a total original and was the nicest person in the world. Robin never lost it, from the time I first met

him, to the last time I worked with him. He was always the same. Fame never went to his head. He didn’t have a mean bone in his body. He was not controversial. He’d back away from an argument because that wasn’t him. He just wanted to do what he did and enjoy life. He loved an audience. One on one with him, Robin was very quiet, and you couldn’t bring him out. When a second or third person entered the room, now he had an audience and would go off and be hilarious. There was a private person there. Robin was a great loss, and he was loved, as evidenced by all the people who commented on him after he died. Everybody loved him. I gave him his first television job. We were doing a Richard Pryor Show, and we had to cast to all the sketches. Richard said, “I want my friends from The Comedy Store.” And I said, “But can they act?” And he said, “I want my friends from The Comedy Store.” So I got his friends and one of them was Robin Williams. Yes they could act, especially Robin. Robin was so young and respectful and called me Mr. Moffitt. It would become a running joke when we worked together later and he would still call me Mr. Moffitt. December 2016

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Real Estate legend Michael Saunders from 2011 on her start in real estate and her childhood home. How did you first get involved with real estate? I was a probation officer. Quite honestly in real estate you need a lot of the same skill sets and values. You needed to care about the young person to make a difference in their life, and be able to motivate that child to make a decision from within. If you don’t truly care about your customer in real estate, you can’t accomplish their goals. In real estate we don’t sell anyone anything – they buy after being motivated from within to process and act on all the information and data that they have been provided.

Describe your home growing up as if you were writing a real estate ad. A charming eclectic cottage settled in by the water’s edge, surrounded by Australian Pines that created a symphony when the wind blew, with the multitude of nature surrounding. Very peaceful and renewing, both spiritually and emotionally.

Child advocate Graci McGillicuddy from 2015 on child abuse and protecting our children. The statistics on child abuse and crimes against children is startling. It seems they have no one advocating for them in the same way that other groups advocate for the homeless or for animals. Children don’t write big checks. They don’t have lobbyists. They don’t have access. So often when something happens to a child, the child does not have the money to do anything about it. Somehow in this country, voices are loudest where there is money. All of it is very important. Everybody matters. Look at the juvenile justice system. I don’t think there are bad children; I think there are children making bad choices. Often they don’t know any better. Some of them go into the juvenile justice system then straight from there into prison. My dream is to get people to think differently about how we treat our children. You can’t treat a terrorist like we treat our children. You can’t treat an animal like we treat our children. I think about teaching children to make good choices that last for a lifetime. To “empower” them rather than have “power over” them. When you hit a child, they might change their behavior but the lesson learned is that if you don’t agree or like what someone does, you hit them. If you see a child running by the pool, don’t yell, “don’t run”. Instead yell, “walk”. Let kids know what you want from them and not what you don’t want. They are eager to please.

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December 2016

Through education, child abuse can… Evaporate. First of all, children don’t come with instructions. One of the leading causes of death for children under four is child abuse, and one of the largest contributors to that is shaken baby syndrome. People get so frustrated that they shake the baby and the baby either dies or becomes damaged for life. In Sweden apparently there is no child abuse, and they send a nurse home with you for the first two weeks to guide you in how to treat your baby. Education is the only way we will break the cycle.

Name three things we should always do for our children. We should love and nurture them. According to my pediatrician, “A spoiled child is a child who gets everything he wants, but love.” They just need to be loved and held. You need three hugs a day to survive.

Restaurateur & Philanthropist Skip Sack from 2013 on secrets of success and giving something back. Give me two things that a good restaurant owner should always do and two things that they should never do. If you take good care of the help, they will take good care of the customers. Secondly, everything emanates from the top down. People emulate the person at the top. If you do things that you should be doing, and are respectful of others, are service oriented, or quality oriented, and you are passionate and take pride in what you are doing, that will permeate the organization. Others will copy you. One of the things that I have never done as restaurant operator is take things out of the restaurant, like take home a bottle of wine, or some meat or anything else. Any time I’ve gone into one of my restaurants and taken something out, I’ve paid for it. It sets an example for everybody else because if people see me taking something out, they can rationalize that it’s okay for them to take things out. I’ve had managers say to me, “Skip, you don’t need to do this.” To which I always say, “Oh yes, I need to do this.”

You really do believe that it is better to give than to receive. Absolutely. And we are blessed to be in a position to be able to do that. I’ve been very lucky in my business career. A lot of it has been talent. I tell people when I lecture, especially the kids, that success is a confluence of three things and they all have to come together. Talent, luck and timing – all three have to converge. You can have all the talent in the world but if the timing isn’t right and you aren’t lucky, it doesn’t happen. I was the beneficiary. I am at a stage in my life beyond anything I ever comprehended. We feel blessed and we want to give back.

Educator and “Keeper of the Flame” Sharon Robinson, Jackie Robinson’s little girl, from 2015 on what a hero is. What is the difference between a champion and a hero to you? The first time I heard this was at my father’s eulogy. At that time you are numb and you really don’t hear it. But it was on TV a few days later, and I remember calling up Reverend Jackson and saying, “My God, those were really powerful words.” Some of his words that struck me the most was the difference between a champion and a hero. Over time, it resonated with me on what it really meant. So many of our athletes we try to make them into heroes, but basically they’re champions. They win something and we give them applause and accolades, but we shouldn’t try to make them into our role models as examples of great character. The champion is carried on the shoulders of the people, while the hero lifts the people on his shoulders. December 2016

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Holocaust Survivor and Educator Dr. Helen Fagin from 2013 on remembering and teaching about the Holocaust. There was a time when you became physically ill and you could barely talk about the horrors of the Holocaust. What was the turning point that allowed you to speak about these horrific events? The turning point, when I decided to deal with it, was 1971 when Elie Wiesel came to the University of Miami promoting his book Night. I was working at the Halal House, which was a Jewish student house, and the director asked me to speak about the Holocaust to what he called a free university. After some convincing from family, I spoke a couple of times, and after these talks, I would become physically sick. At the event where Elie Wiesel was speaking, I went up to him and explained my difficulties with talking about the Holocaust and asked him, “How do you do it?” He put his arms on my shoulders, looked right in my eyes, and said, “Helen, you and I are survivors of the Holocaust and experienced it. If you and I don’t do it, then we will leave it to other people’s imagination to tell the story.” And I said, “you are absolutely right.” A professor in the English department overheard him and said, “Helen, you ought to do it.” I offered a course in literature on the Holocaust, non-existing literature of the Holocaust, because I made up my mind that I was not going to teach from anything other than eyewitness accounts. And I stuck to my word.

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December 2016

If you had the power and ability to address the world community and write a world bill of rights, what would it include? First and above all is the golden rule. What I preach is to have a moral compass. Know your purpose in life. Know what it is that makes you the human being that you would truly revere in another human being. Be the person that you would love to love. It’s not that I love myself, but it’s that I am secure in the kind of human being that I have become. The kind of a person that served others, and who tried very hard in every endeavor that I was involved in to inject the moral factor of a human being’s existence. My dividend is residing in the people who learned these concepts from me and they in turn teach them to others by invoking the memory of Helen Fagin and that I feel, very frankly, is my immortality. My immortality rests in my students, my audiences and in my family.

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EDUCATION

Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School “The progress of the world depends almost entirely upon education” – George Eastman By Ryan G. Van Cleave

If you walk down the halls of Saint Stephen’s Episcopal

Hambrick came to Saint Stephens seven years ago and

School, you’ll hear a host of different languages being

at that point, they already had a strong relationship

spoken. Sure, there’s Spanish, Mandarin, Latin, and

with the Gulin Dehzi Foreign Language School in

French, which are all taught there, but there’s also

Guilin, China and the Iringa International School in

Russian, Swedish, Portuguese, Czech and more,

Lugalo, Tanzania. These are two of the five schools

thanks to their international student body. In addition

that Hambrick considers their core connections, calling

to the international community, the ongoing Global

them “Sister Schools.” The other three Sister Schools are

Education Program also puts their students in contact

Holy Trinity Episcopal School in La Ceiba, Honduras,

with other classes from around the world. “Our school

Shibuya Junior and Senior High School in Tokyo, Japan,

is truly to connect with the world,” says Jennifer

and Colegio Nacional Monseratt in Córdoba, Argentina.

Hambrick, an Intermediate School Spanish teacher

Each of these Sister Schools has various teachers and

who serves as the Director of Global Education. “We’re

classes interacting with them on a regular basis versus

connected with 39 different schools in 20 different

just a single class that partners for only a semester.

countries right now. And each year, we’re adding

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more to that list.” Then she smiles and says, “The

The Colegio Nacional Monseratt was a natural partner

Global Education program has become my baby.”

since one of the teachers there was a Saint Stephen’s

December 2016

“Limiting our students to the four walls of the classroom is a disservice. Considering how connected the world is, you have to know how to get along with others, how to navigate discussions with people with different cultures, religions, and backgrounds. Having practiced this, it helps our students understand why people do the things they do, and it helps our students know how to respond.” – Jennifer Hambrick

exchange student a few decades back. Some of the

School in Tokyo showing a new Japanese hand-

other partnerships emerged on a project-by-project

clapping game that they learned in class. In response,

or class-by-class basis. For example, this semester,

the students in Tokyo sent a video back with another

an 8th grade technology class is working on a LEGO

hand-clapping game for our students to learn. Students

Mindstorms robot project for a month with a school

from Honduras check in live weekly on Skype or

in Astana, Kazakhstan. “The goal, though,” explains

through Google Hangouts. “They talk about life,

Hambrick, “is to get every teacher, every class, and

work collaboratively on a project, discuss a specific

every student engaged in this program on some

academic context area, or share math strategies

level.” And it starts early, too — Saint Stephen’s

or an opinion on a novel,” says Hambrick. “Even

kindergartners are already connected with schools

when the technology doesn’t work as well as we

in Vancouver, Canada and Sao Paulo, Brazil.

hope, it’s still a learning opportunity. Our students watch how we, as teachers, react to challenges.”

Most of the exchanges are in English, though what happens in those exchanges varies greatly from class to

Part of the goal is to move these exchanges from

class. For example, an 8th grade art class took photos

virtual to face-to-face. Interim Quest — the final week

of their hometown and sent them to 8th grade art

of school each year — allows for Saint Stephen’s

students from a school in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, who

students to undertake all manner of experiential

sent back photos of their hometown. “They were so

learning. For some, it’s an international trip to one

beautiful,” Hambrick reports from the Saint Stephen’s art

of the Sister Schools or an annual service learning

students, “that our students wondered if they were right

trip to the Dominican Republic, though Hambrick

off Google!” In daily sketches, both groups of students

would like to rotate in even more travel options

drew in response to the photographic inspiration. In

such as Honduras, Argentina, or Tanzania so

the spring art show, the photos and accompanying

students can meet those they’ve been interacting

sketches will be on display. Even the Saint Stephen’s

with online. Some students, though, remain closer

PE program is seeking international partnerships.

to home and participate in activities such visiting

Recently, one of their teachers contacted a school in

potential college choices or taking a weeklong

Beijing to discuss sharing PE videos so each knows

class in yoga, cooking, game design, or magic.

what type of activities and lessons the other is doing. The real value of the Global Education Program is to Of course, Hambrick herself participates in the program.

give students the opportunity to learn from and with

“Just today, my students wrote in Spanish in an app

others. “Limiting our students to the four walls of the

called Padlet about their own Halloween traditions.

classroom is a disservice,” says Hambrick. “Considering

Then students from Argentina responded with their

how connected the world is, you have to know how

own observations and insights about Traditions Day,

to get along with others, how to navigate discussions

an Argentinean holiday that takes place on November

with people with different cultures, religions, and

10. The goal is to learn from each other. It’s a cultural

backgrounds. Having practiced this, it helps our

exchange and an opportunity to learn about the world.

students understand why people do the things they

It’s also a way to break down some of the walls and

do, and it helps our students know how to respond.”

misconceptions we might have about others. Through our activities, students realize that students around

Ultimately, it makes us all more culturally sensitive and

the world really aren’t that different from them.”

appreciative of our differences. In short, she adds, it’s programs like this that make the world a better place.

Because of time zone differences, some of the exchanges happen asynchronously where students

For more information on Saint Stephen’s

exchange videos or texts, such as how 5th grade

Episcopal School, please visit saintstephens.org

performing arts students sent a video to their Sister

or call 941.746.2121.

December 2016

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Buzz

The

Around Town

s Christmas nears, I don’t know about you, but my favorite part of this holiday is finding the perfect gift for the special people in my life, and with my big family, this can take quite a bit of planning. During my college years, I worked as an apprentice for an interior designer, who had a retail gift store filled for the holidays by our buying trips in July. It was fabulous! My holiday gift buying was done by the end of summer!! As the years have past, my how things have changed! Amazon Prime has become my go-to online stop. With their free 2-day shipping, Amazon solves the holiday procrastinator’s predicament. But sadly missing for me is the personal shopping experience. I don’t get to know the merchants, the craftsmen and the designers that keep my money, and more importantly, my community doesn’t benefit from my holiday gift spending. I recently did an “Undercover Buzz” segment on November 10 for ABC 7’s Suncoast View that highlighted area creatives turned entrepreneurs. My research revealed a plethora of gift options right here in our own backyard. With so many great choices, I made a commitment to buy as many of my holiday gifts as possible from local merchants, companies or artists. So this holiday season, I hope you’ll join me in putting gift dollars into own economy. Let’s go on a local gift hunt! Here are some of my favorites along with some of my “Buzz Picks.”

BUZZ PICKS L. Boutique – Cashmere Ruffle Wrap Local fashion expert LeeAnne Swor expanded her successful Atlanta-based retail business to Sarasota to be near her family. Since then, L. Boutique has grown to include L. Kids and L. Spa. The focus on contemporary women’s fashion includes everything from weekend-worthy denim, tees, and tanks, to sundresses in vibrant prints, cocktail dresses and black tie evening gowns, accessories, gemstone jewelry and chic sunglasses, handbags and high heels in a space, aptly described on the website, “...that feels like the closet of your dreams.” 556 Pineapple Ave, Sarasota | lboutiques.com

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December 2016

By Suzette Jones

Camilyn Beth Studios – Fuchsia Go-Go Dress With collections like “Girl-Boss Moment” featuring the Go-Go and Kennedy Dress and a full range of bridal offerings, couture never seemed so accessible…or fun! Cami opened her retail doors in 2014 after a stint with a Sweden-based fashion house. She says she is “living out my dream of creating beautiful and unique clothing for sweet and stylish people around the globe.” And she is doing this from her boutique on the second floor of one of Palm Avenues’ beautiful historic buildings. It is worth the search to find. Hint: check out the sale link for some great pricing on last year’s designs. Classic styles never go out of style. 75 S. Palm Ave #214, Sarasota | camilynbeth.com

Bowman Originals – Wild Flower Cluster Pendant with Gemstones Located in the heart of beautiful and energetic downtown Sarasota, Ned Bowman and his longtime protégé/assistant Rowann explore the mediums of silver, gold, enamel, glass and various stones. The casually elegant showroom is separated from the workshop by a half-wall so visitors can see, hear, smell, and experience the process of crafting handmade jewelry. With many awards and an enviable celebrity client list that includes Cher, Madonna and Joe Perry, your gift is destined to become a coveted heirloom. 124 S. Pineapple Ave, Sarasota | bowmanoriginals.com

T. Giorgiano’s – Riley Optic White Tee - “The Best Things In Life Make You Sweaty” I love how founder and CEO Tatyana Sharoubim describes her business vibe and philosophy. “Do what you LOVE in life in comfort and style.” Taty grew up in the retail world watching her father oversee a luxury shoe salon. Sharoubim has modified and honed her late father’s original concept to become a “lifestyle boutique for every confident woman on the go.” Always on trend, Taty’s boutique reflects her own personal style, providing

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MASTERWORKS

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THE BULLET HOLE “Florida’s Oldest Gun Store”

Located in the heart of Downtown Sarasota since 1947. Specializes in Firearms, Liberty Safes & Accessories.

the latest in accessories and apparel in addition to footwear. The company’s motto is, “Our clients are our friends and we are invested in their experience here each time.” They succeed. 1409 1st Street, Sarasota | tgeorgianos.com

June Simmons Jewelry – Gold Ruffle Statement Bracelet, Arme De’Lamour The Misantone family, from left: Stella, Barbara, Dasher (dog), Brooke (standing), Francis & Alexandra

“Happy Holidays from Our Family to Yours!”

With her brilliant daughter Liebe Gamble’s vision, June Simmons, a selftaught bench jeweler, has joined her oneof-kind custom jewels with an inventory of other artists that include fine jewelry designers Buddha Momma and Sorrellina and fashion jewelry lines Arme De’ Lamour and Lionnette, to create a jewelry

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December 2016

68 S. Palm Ave and inside The Met, 35 S. Blvd of the Presidents, Sarasota | junesimmonsjewelry.com

Nina Nguyen Harmony Long Necklette – Milan’s Jewelry

Book Publishing

Tourism

house full of unique designers that reflect the mother/daughter team’s own personal tastes and passion for artistry in jewelry. This is a collector’s paradise. Started in Sarasota in 1976, the growth of the business from a fully custom storefront to multiple locations with carefully curated designers from around the world, is a testament of June and Liebe’s love for jewelry and one another. Each store has its own unique interior and vision. You can find them downtown or on St. Armand’s Circle. Their website states that “June Simmons Jewelry is truly a modern day jewelry couturier.” I agree.

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Using both old world techniques and modern computer aided design, Milan’s Jewelry specializes in custom jewelry design. Milan Petrovic is an awardwinning designer, master jeweler and goldsmith. He is also personable, warm and so very helpful. He will personally assist you with your gift challenges or jewelry emergencies. He repaired my ring while I shopped the Farmer’s Market last weekend after I broke a post. Besides his custom work, Milan carries some gorgeous lines. One is made of glass-looking bangles that are stackable, collectable and have a price that won’t break the bank. My favorite designer that Milan offers remains Nina Nguyen. Her

raw gemstone “Harmony Long” necklettes are offered as birthstone gifts and can be worn in multiples around the neck or as a wrap bracelet. I have my eye on the lapis vermeil. 1666 Main Street, Sarasota | milansjewelry.com

Bluemercury – LAFCO white grapefruit/cabana candle essential oil, soy candle For those beauty junkies and product enthusiasts on your list, you are in luck! Bluemercury just opened in the former Brooks Brothers location on Lemon and Main. DCarea husband and wife team Barry and Marla Malcolm Beck are the founders and visionaries behind Bluemercury, Inc. In 1999, they created a novel concept with the first Bluemercury in Georgetown, Washington D.C., a neighborhood store for beauty where clients could find high quality, innovative beauty products and honest, expert advice. Since then, the couple has launched the vegan cosmetics line Lune + Aster and have become the go-to expert speakers on retailing entrepreneurship. Bluemercury offers lines like Lune+Aster, Trish McEvoy, Oribe and many more. Store manager Alisha Pavacich and her team are great examples of Bluemercury’s innovative retailing and human resource model, which has been the topic of numerous books. They are warm and knowledgeable, and ready to help you find your perfect product. I can’t wait to check out the spa when it opens soon. 1500 Main Street, Sarasota | bluemercury.com

Wild Ginger Apothecary – Kombucha Starter Kit “Apothecary, Lounge, Studio - Shop, Learn. Move.” That’s what the Wild Ginger Apothecary website banner says right up front on the home page. Owner Nicole Leffler has taken her lifelong passion for health, wellness and community involvement to create an inclusive space that nourishes the body, mind and spirit. Wild Ginger Apothecary carries non-toxic health and beauty products that include skincare, facial care, body care, makeup, hair care, natural fragrance, home items, teas, pet care, and nutritional/ wellness health supplements. Products are eco-friendly, cruelty-free, chemical-free, nontoxic, all natural, and organic when possible. With all of these options, you are sure to find the perfect product or class for your wellness-focused loved ones in Nicole’s groovy Gulf Gate location or online. 6557 Superior Ave, Sarasota | wildgingerapothecary.com

Write-On Sarasota – Benjamin Paul letterpress stationery One of my favorite finds includes the personalized stationery and writing instruments at Eileen Wallace’s Write-On Sarasota, located just around the corner from Whole Foods on 1st Street. I love dropping in to this boutique to see what’s new. In the technology-ruled world we live in, handwritten notes and personalized service are so rare these days. Eileen offers both. Receiving stationery as a gift is perfect for a person who has everything. It gets used up, so there is a continuing need to resupply. Eileen also carries the Filofax brand, another classic from the pre-technology world. 1423 1st Street, Sarasota | writeonsarasota.com

Pecky Interiors – Alicia Adams large Sail Throws Patricia and Peter Estes opened Pecky Interiors in 2013. Dubbed as a purveyor of curious, livable art, Pecky is located in downtown Sarasota. It is a bit hidden, sitting on a rarely-walked side street. This is about to change with the completion of the much-needed apartments being built on 2nd Street near Whole Foods. It’s worth the effort to find and parking is usually available. A nice treat for downtown shoppers, Pecky offers furniture, gifts and accessories. Traditional and contemporary collide in this showroom. The store states that Pecky was “inspired by owners Patricia and Peter Estes’ adoration for pecky cypress. Their Sarasota-based company Estes Recovered Lumber produces custom furniture and structural elements from recovered, old growth cypress, antique heart pine and of course, the pecky cypress for which the boutique is named. It’s the perfect place to find an original gift. 100 Central Ave, Sarasota | peckysrq.com December 2016

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Sarasota Architectural Salvage – Chalk Paint I have been streamlining my priorities so I can spend time in the studio creating. Fine Art was my degree at university, but I began my studies in Interior Architecture. I wanted to design furniture. Sarasota Architectural Salvage has become my toy box and guilty pleasure. A Saturday morning walk through the nooks and rows inspires me. Owner Jesse White was an environmental consultant prior to opening the store in 2003. Do you have some creatives on your list? You won’t disappoint with a gift from this fabulous treasure trove. You can find iron doorknockers, vintage sign lettering, unique finished pieces, items ready for repurpose or jaw-dropping century-old wood raw lumber. Have fun! 1093 Central Ave, Sarasota | sarasotasalvage.com

EDITOR’S PICKS: Rue Full of fine apparel, accessories and handbags, owner Natalie Rue Morgan has created a hybrid of her lifelong loves and interests: fashion, French bulldogs, history, books, cars, Northern Michigan, rap music and vintage clothing.

Michelle Crabtree Broker Associate, REALTOR® CLHMS, CRS, CIPS, GRI, ABR, GREEN

1439 Main Street, Sarasota | ruesrq.com

Clever Rose According to owner Rosemary Angeleri, “The name Clever Rose echoes my personality and style, and the fashions are just as expressive. Our collections include dresses of all lengths and styles, casual and dressy shorts, wraps, jumpsuits, and tops for day and night.”

A third generation local and Broker Sales Associate since 1982, Michelle is dedicated to serving your needs in Sarasota, Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch.

• 2016 Five-Star Real Estate Agent “Best in Client Satisfaction” – 9 years • 2016 Florida Realtor Honor Society – 9 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 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.

100

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December 2016

533 S. Pineapple Ave, Sarasota | cleverrose.com

MK Designs Hand-selecting gems from an exclusive vendor list from around the world, owner Marian Strickland studies these gems in her own lab to verify identification and treatment issues. The end results of her high-quality workmanship are jewelry designs that are very unique and affordable. 30 S. Palm Ave, Sarasota | mymkdesigns.com

Woman’s Exchange Founded in 1962, over 230 dedicated community volunteers work hard to ensure this consignment store like no other is filled with amazing finds such as Baccarat crystal, Tiffany silver, Gucci handbags, fine jewelry, and lots more. The best part is that the Woman’s Exchange awards grants and scholarships each year to benefit nonprofits and students, giving a total of nearly $8 million since its inception. 539 S. Orange Ave, Sarasota | sarasotawex.com

Dream Weaver Representing over 50 of North America’s top fiber artists and designers, Dream Weaver is the largest gallery of fine art-to-wear in the country. It also has unique jewelry, handbags and accessories. With its sister store, Planet, which offers a creative collection of women’s apparel made of the finest natural fabrics in a palette of soft hues, owner Joan Morgan gives us lots of ways to dare to be different! 364 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota | dreamweavercollection.com

ART! In addition to the traditional retail inventory, there is art. In this beautiful pocket of our local world, you can find an artist around every corner. Whether it is our natural beauty, the mystical crystal sands, progressive educational institutions or just the independent vibe, Sarasota attracts creatives. This is good news for YOU! Buying art directly from local artists is appreciated and rewarded, as many of these works gain in value and you get to

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witness the progression as the rest of the country and international world takes notice. I was introduced to award-winning local artist, Tim Jaeger, at his Ringling College graduation party hosted by art world luminary, Annie Solomon. If you don’t know about Annie, you should. Annie served as the hostess extraordinaire to a list of a steady stream of art world celebrities that included Phil Guston, Conrad Marca-Relli, Adolph Gottlieb and Jim Dine, who often visited from New York to visit Annie and husband, abstract expressionist artist Syd Solomon, after they began their winter stays here in the late 40’s. The women in Tim Jaeger’s paintings have always reminded me of my sisters, so I have given each one an original Jaeger painting as a major milestone gift.

Buzz Artists Picks: Tim Jaeger | regeajstudio.com Andrea Dascha Reich (Dascha) | andreadashareich.com Erin Shriver | erinshriver.com Gena Cristiani | genacristiani.com David Steiner | sarasotafineart.com/artists Jorge Blanco | jorgeblancosculpture.com To find more - and there are SO many more - visit the Made By retail store at Ringling College or check these artist listings. sarasotaarts.org/directories/artists and sartq.org

MEMBERSHIPS This gift list would not be complete without a suggestion of a “Gift Membership” at one of our local attractions. Orlando might have Disney and Universal memberships, but our local offerings provide a year’s worth of activities, exhibits, events and inspiration.

Buzz Picks: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens | selby.org The Ringling | | ringling.org Ringling College Library Association | rclassociation.org Sarasota Museum of Art | ringling.edu/museum Big Cat Habitat | bigcathabitat.org Mote Marine Laboratory | mote.org Whatever options you choose, you can’t go wrong supporting the local treasures listed above. I’ll be thinking of you, my buzzing readers, as you celebrate your holiday traditions. Let me know your buzz by joining the Facebook Group ‘Undercover Buzz’ or emailing me Suzette@UndercoverBuzz.com. May your gift-hunting days be merry and bright.

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HEALTH

Prostate Cancer Detection & Management By Tracy B. Gapin, MD, FACS Over the past decade, there has been a dramatic shift in prostate cancer detection and management. This can be attributed to a number of factors:

Tracy B. Gapin, MD, FACS Urologist Florida Urology Specialists 1 S. School Ave., Suite 200, Sarasota, FL 34237 941.309.7000 tbgapin@yahoo.com flurologyspecialists.com SarasotaProstate.com

• Recognition that PSA screening SAVES LIVES Despite what the US Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) initially suggested, PSA screening DOES, in fact, save lives in men ages 55-69. We know now that the USPSTF based their recommendations on the results of the US-based PLCO study, which was greatly flawed. Most of the men (nearly 90%!) in the control ‘no screening’ arm who were supposed to NOT be screened actually DID in fact have screening. The results of the study have thus been rendered meaningless. A large multicenter European trial and one from Göteborg, Sweden BOTH demonstrated a significant reduction in prostate cancer mortality with PSA screening. • Significant improvement in prostate MRI technology Multiparametric prostate MRI provides impressive details of the internal architecture and anatomy of the prostate. This can reveal ‘lesions’ or abnormalities within the prostate that are suspicious for cancer and provide a roadmap for targeted prostate biopsy. We no longer need to (nor should we) perform random ultrasound-guided prostate biopsy with the inherent 30-50% chance of MISSING the cancer. What other organ have we continued to randomly stick needles into HOPING to hit the cancer if it is present? Answer: None. • Development of MRI/Ultrasound 3-D Fusion Prostate Biopsy Technology This technology creates 3-D renderings of the prostate using MRI images and ultrasound images and then merges the two together. This provides real-time 3-D imaging of suspicious lesions within the prostate and enables accurate sampling. Several large studies have documented a significant improvement in prostate cancer detection with this approach compared to standard ultrasound-guided biopsy. This can also have a tremendous impact on how we treat prostate cancer. Prostate MRI along with MRI/US fusion biopsy provide very specific anatomic detail about prostate cancers that enables better consideration for potential less-invasive treatment options such as focal therapy. • Acceptance of active surveillance as a safe, reasonable approach for men with low-grade prostate cancer. This was formerly referred to as “watchful waiting” but we now monitor cancers more actively. We (urologists as a community) have been over-treating low grade prostate cancer for a long time, subjecting patients to the unnecessary side effects and morbidity of treatment with minimal impact on their long-term survival. We need to provide individualized treatment, tailored to each patient’s particular disease and situation. • Development of genomic-based biomarkers. Biomarkers are novel blood and urine tests use to better assess patients’ risk of aggressive prostate cancer. Some of these tests, including 4K score, phi test, and PCA-3 are useful for men with an elevated PSA to determine those who should undergo prostate biopsy or prostate MRI and fusion biopsy as described above. Others such as Decipher, Prolaris, and GPS score, are performed on the prostate biopsy tissue to better classify the aggressiveness of prostate cancer. The Decipher test is also used after radical prostatectomy to assess the patient’s risk of developing subsequent recurrence. • FDA approval of HIFU (High Intensity Focused Ultrasound) HIFU is a non-invasive treatment for prostate cancer that utilizes an ultrasound probe to precisely focus high-energy ultrasound beams into the prostate. The innovative, breakthrough treatment provides cancer outcomes similar to surgery or radiation but with minimal side effects such as ED or urinary incontinence. HIFU has been performed around the world since the mid-1990’s. In September of 2015, the FDA cleared the Sonablate HIFU device for prostate treatment here in the US. For additional information on available diagnostic tools and treatment options for prostate cancer, please visit SarasotaProstate.com. December 2016

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HEALTH

HED: Steps Toward Falls Prevention By Jason A. Collins, MD

We have all experienced a loss of balance at one point or another. With age that loss can have greater consequences.

Jason Collins, MD Intercoastal Medical Group Orthopedics/Sports Medicine 11505 Rangeland Parkway, Bradenton, FL 34211 943 South Beneva Road, Suite 106, Sarasota, FL 34232 941-362-8662 intercoastalmedical.com/jasoncollinsmd

How Common Are Falls? According to the CDC and the National Council on Aging, every 13 seconds an older adult is treated in the emergency for injuries that are the result of a fall. On average, I see 15 patients per week with injuries that are the result of a fall. Once a patient falls, it’s a very serious event with injuries that range from broken hips to head trauma. With 10 years in orthopedic medicine and sports medicine, I’ve seen falls drastically alter a patient’s quality of life. If an injury requires surgical intervention, it will ultimately result in the loss of a level of function. If they walked without a cane or a walker before they fell, they’ll often need one afterwards. If you’re 65 years or older, you have a 1 in 3 chance of falling. However, it’s possible to help prevent this loss by addressing factors that put you at risk before you fall. What Causes a Fall? Falls can generally be classified into either mechanical or non-mechanical. A mechanical fall is a standard trip and fall that occurs due to loss of balance or an obstacle. Too often I’ve seen patients who have fallen during routine movements. Simple adjustments like getting out of bed or a car can result in fall. Non-mechanical falls can be the result of a heart attack, stroke or misuse of medication. With proactive measures, both types of falls can be prevented to a degree. Mechanical falls are by far the most common, yet also the easiest to prevent. Community Resources are Available We have great resources in our community like the falls prevention and balance program at Pines of Sarasota. Their program assesses risks that could lead to falls that are both mechanical and non-mechanical. Pines of Sarasota does this risk assessment as a community outreach. It is complimentary. No charge. The name of it is Ready & Steady – A Plan for Better Balance. It’s a really solid program and I recommend it because of its comprehensive process which includes: • A CDC questionnaire about activity levels, medications and health conditions. • A “Timed Up and Go” test. With this timed test, a person gets up from a seated position, walks 10 feet, then returns to the chair and sits down. • The final test uses the BIODEX balance system for three 20-second trial exercises. These three steps are evaluated and recommendations are provided. If you know what your weaknesses and your risk of falling are, and you take a proactive approach to restoring your balance, it’s easier to prevent a fall. Preventing a fall with simple education and, if indicated, with treatment therapy far outweighs the consequences of a fall. If you can pinpoint the problems before they happen and take steps to mitigate a fall, well, that does a lot more in helping a patient’s lifestyle and their overall health than treating the injury after the fact. Bottom line – be proactive in assessing and keeping your balance.

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Literary Scene By Ryan G. Van Cleave

Climatized: A Max Ford Thriller Sarasota author Sally Fernandez’s new book, Climatized, delves deeply into the issues of climate control and global warming. This new series’ heroine, Maxine Ford, quickly realizes that politicians might stop at nothing to push their own climate agendas forward. Here’s how it starts. Freshly retired from the intelligence world, Ford starts up an investigative firm because what else does a natural-born sleuth do with spare time? Things kick off fast when Florida Republican senator Sherman Spark is found dead in Lincoln Park. Sure, the police quickly deem it a suicide, but the late senator’s wife doesn’t buy it. So, she hires Ford to get to the truth, no matter what. Ford soon learns that three world-renowned scientists also met recent untimely deaths. Worse, a fourth has gone missing. What if Ford proves that politicians are behind it all? What if solving the murders and the kidnapping means sending the world economy into a trillion-dollar tailspin? Fernandez considers herself a political junkie, and it shows in her research again and again. Read the Foreword by Dr. Harold Doiron (Chair of The Right Climate Stuff research team) for more evidence of this fact. The book rings true in a lot of ways, plus the writing is compelling throughout. Give this provocative thriller a chance to win you over.

Rating: For more information about Climatized: A Max Ford Thriller (Dunham Books, softcover, 224 pages, $15.99) or the author, please visit sallyfernandez.com December 2016

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The Magdalen Girls Florida author Michael Meeske’s novel plunges readers into the dark world of 1960s Dublin, where young women were sent to the Magdalen laundries to live in a system of institutionalized servitude that was — shockingly — sanctioned by the Catholic Church. This book follows the story of three young women who are each banished to the laundries for different reasons. Once there, they’re each given new names and quickly stripped of their freedom — even their dignity. Here’s a taste of Meeske’s powerful writing. “You will lie here, in the position of the Cross, and you will learn your lesson,” the Mother Superior said. “You must understand what Jesus suffered. You will not eat, nor drink, nor soil yourself.” She rose to her feet. “When the evil has been removed from your spirit, you’ll be able to join us. I do this out of love, so you will know Christ and His ways.” In the hands of a lesser author, a novel about one of Ireland’s most notorious institutions of the 20th century would be a weepy downer. Instead, this book is about friendship, hope, and courage in the face of every challenge. It’s a fine tribute to the period of 70 years of Ireland’s history where thousands of young women were declared “fallen” and exiled to lives of unpaid labor under the supervision of the Magdalen laundries (also sometimes called the “Magdalene asylums”).

Rating: For more information about The Magdalen Girls (Kensington, softcover, 352 pages, $14.99) or the author, please visit michaelmeeske.com

Little Dog, Big Bark, Big Dog, Little Bark “Don’t call me ‘Phoebe’ — call me ‘Fang’!” growls the cute little dog with the “fancy haircuts and frilly clothes” and the GREAT BIG BARK in local author Mifflin Lowe’s latest picture book. And then there’s Boris, a “great, big, scary watchdog” that wears a “collar with pointy metal studs.” His bark? A teensy little yip. Talk about a canine odd couple! That’s the premise for Lowe’s new book that touches on the idea of friendship, belonging, and BDFFs (Best Doggie Friends Forever). The black-and-white illustrations by Ringling College of Art + Design graduate Martina Crepulja are expressive and fun — this is the third picture book partnership between her and Lowe, and again, her work nearly steals the show. There are numerous pages for kids to color, and there’s also a spot for a canine friend’s name and pawprint too. Whether you love dogs or not, you’ll likely find something to enjoy in this fun little book.

Rating: For more information about Little Dog, Big Bark, Big Dog, Little Bark (LocoKids, softcover, 38 pages, $9.95) or the author, please visit LocoKids.com

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Live Richly. You’ve Earned It. �

Benjamin Franklin wrote: “wealth is not his that has it, but his that enjoys it.” At Integrity Wealth Management (IWM), we want to help protect and grow the wealth you’ve worked hard to achieve so you can do just that. IWM specializes in assisting with long-term, low-risk investments, wealth preservation, reducing tax burdens and other personalized strategies. We’re committed to upholding the values of integrity, honesty, competency and stewardship and putting you on the right path to live the life you so richly deserve. Private Wealth Management For Select Individuals. 941-955-2700 | iwmfl.com

From our family to yours, Merry Christmas

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Samuel L. Cione