Scene Magazine December 2010

NEW COLLEGE OF FLORIDA

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE PHILANTHROPY 2010: A YEAR FOR GIVING POWERHOUSE SUPPORTERS LASTING COMMUNITY GIFTS ACTS OF KINDNESS EVENTS, PARTY PIX & MORE!

DECEMBER 2010 $3.95 U.S.

furniture should be Y our as unique as you are.

Western North Carolina’s Premiere Furniture Showcase.

If you need furnishings for your Florida home, or are purchasing a home in the mountains, we encourage you to discover High Country Furniture & Design. Our staff of skilled design professionals will help you with your selections in any decor and budget. We ship nationwide.

Located in Waynesville, NC 3232 Dellwood Rd. (Hwy. 19) • (828) 926-1722

www.highcountry.com

Contact our local representative Bobbie Pedzoldt: 941-374-5132 bobbidecorum@comcast.net

FURNITURE • RUGS • LIGHTING • ACCESSORIES • PORCH & GARDEN • DESIGN CENTER

������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������

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Make The Move To Sarasota Bay Club Now – With Our Exciting New Freedom Purchase Program!

• Delay Your Closing Up To 12 Months • Move-In Before Your Current Home Is Sold • Assistance Selling Your Current Home If you are ready to make the move to a more carefree retirement lifestyle, Sarasota Bay Club’s Freedom Purchase Program is designed especially for you!

Your minimal deposit locks in your purchase price on select units, and provides you with the option of delaying your closing up to a year. With the Freedom Purchase Program, you start enjoying the Sarasota Bay Club lifestyle before you move in. You get full access to all of the wonderful amenities we offer our residents, including fine dining, a full schedule of social and recreational activities, and access to ClubCare Home Health Services. Or you can choose to move into the Sarasota Bay Club before you close while your current home is on the market. Our dedicated move-in coordinator will assist with all the details of your move.

A Carefree Retirement Lifestyle Is Waiting For You! Many Of The Best Floor Plans and Views Are Still Available.

Call Kathryn Cooper Today

For Your Complimentary Luncheon & Tour!

(941) 552-3284

www.SarasotaBayClub.com 1301 N. Tamiami Trail • Sarasota, Florida 34236

 

OUTperform OUTperform

OUTshine OUTshine You want the best your child.  You want the best for for your child.  

                                   Siesta Key Campus: Pre-K–Grade 6

Siesta Campus Key Campus: Pre-K–Grade Uihlein at Lakewood Ranch: 6 Uihlein 7–12 Campus at Lakewood Grades | Sarasota, FL Ranch: Grades 7–12 || www.ODA.edu Sarasota, FL 941-554-3400 941-554-3400 | www.ODA.edu

contentsfeatures sixtyone Philanthropy December 2010

43

Volume 53 No. 12

New College: A Leader in Liberal Arts Education

50

Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice: Giving ‘til it helps Steven J. Smith

56

What’s In A Name?

[In These Cases, Quite a Lot] Sue Cullen

61

2010: A Great Year for Giving Ryan G. Van Cleave

43 NEW COLLEGE OF FLORIDA

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE PHILANTHROPY 2010: A YEAR FOR GIVING POWERHOUSE SUPPORTERS LASTING COMMUNITY GIFTS ACTS OF KINDNESS EVENTS, PARTY PIX & MORE!

Cover / A biology professor, psychology student and graduate share their stories about New College of Florida, as this renowned national leader in liberal arts education celebrates its 50th year with tributes, festivals and a concert on the bay.

Photo of New College student Nicole Hokayem inside the Hal C. Ball Anthropology Lab on the campus of New College of Florida.

Cover photo by Barbara Banks.

50 56

Directing Awareness

Since 1989, the Center for Faith and Freedom has utilized its video production capabilities to document many of the social, economic, humanitarian and spiritual issues facing individuals and families in crisis. We take seriously our obligation to support and serve those citizens who may have been forgotten or overlooked by our fast-paced society.

To see samples of our award-winning video documentaries, visit us online: www.FaithandFreedom.org

Stuart J. Roth

Founder and President With 22 Telly Awards and an Emmy® Award for Advanced Media Documentary, the Center for Faith and Freedom represents the cutting edge of the multi-media industry.

7357 Merchant Court � Sarasota, FL 34240 � Phone 941.487.4061 � Fax 941.487.4062

contents inside 11

From the Publisher

16 27

00

64

Ron Milton

Events Calendar Arts & Culture Culture Matters The Sarasota County Arts Council

31

From the Desk of: Dennis L. Stover

38

Thirtyone

Behind the Scene Debbi Benedict

64

Scenes from an Interview Gerri Aaron Gus Mollasis

70

90

86

St. Armands Circle World Class Dining – World Class Destination Susan Cullen

77

Scene Healthy Advice for Healthy Living

83

Curtain Call

27

Steven J. Smith

87

The Ringling Art Experience Ryan G. Van Cleave

90

87

Locally

Omission from last month's issue: November cover and feature story photography courtesy of Herb Booth, Booth Studio Photography.

socialscene 26

2010 Key to the Cure

32

Mote Marine’s Oceanic Evening

36

Snooty’s Gala

49

USF’s Brunch on the Bay

53

Pines of Sarasota Foundation’s The Wit and Wisdom of Aging

55

Glasser/Schoenbaum “Art of Caring” 20th Anniversary Gala

63

Sarasota Opera Curtain Raiser Dinner

69

Children First Flip Flops & Fashion Luncheon

86

Planned Parenthood’s Safe Sex Halloween Bash

Oak Laurel Country Club

Inviting. Inspired. Incomparable.

One of Sarasota’s finest private country clubs offering a unique balance between active retirees and young families, giving you an extraordinary opportunity to seize life.

COUNTRY CLUB

941-378-3399

| 2700 Gary Player Boulevard, Sarasota, FL 34240 | www.laureloak.com

THE PERFECT BAL ANCE OF TR ADITION & INNOVATION

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

Dinner for Two Special Includes a choice of starter, entrĂŠe and a bottle of select wine per couple for $59.95 Join us before 6:00 and receive a complimentary dessert to share Visit our menu online at cafeleurope.net Complimentary Valet Parking All Day Long

941.388.4415 | 431 St. Armands Circle | cafeleurope.net

Photo by Cliff Roles

scene | from the publisher

A

PREMIUM CIGARS

s 2010 winds down, there’s no better time for a “SCENE state of union” update. Publishing a magazine with the great history, reputation

FINE WINES

and quality of SCENE has been a joy ever since my wife, Julie, and

I purchased the magazine in May 2007. We spent over a year searching for the right business – one that perfectly suited both of our skill sets and had a solid and good purpose. For us, without hesitation, that business was SCENE Magazine, solidly entrenched in the community since 1957. Just think about that.

IMPORTED BEERS COFFEE

A magazine entering its 54th year of print. A magazine that keeps everything local – from its content, to its advertisers, to its operations, to its printing – with all dollars going back into the community.

One of the best compliments Julie and I hear over and over again is that people like to read SCENE cover to cover, not just flip through it. That is a testament to the valuable local content we continue to print about the great people, businesses and organizations that shape our town. The founder of SCENE Magazine, Ward “Bud” Patton, used to say, “Give people news about good people doing good things, and you can’t lose.” A winning formula for sure, Mr. Patton.

CIGAR & WINE BAR SARASOTA, FL 941 925.4747

This year, we’ve added the entire magazine online. SCENE can be read in its entirety at www.scenesarasota.com. Double clicking the magazine will enlarge

UNIVERSITY PARK, FL 941.358.2222

the issue for easy viewing and there is an easy page turning arrow. Each page links whenever possible to a business or organizations’ website, where you can obtain more information. You can also find a comprehensive community calendar

MADUROSCIGAR.COM

on our site, and fabulous event photos. We know many of you search the site quite often, as we see website “hits” growing substantially to very impressive scenesarasota.com

December 2010

| scene

11

It’s A Buyers Market, Who Can You Trust?

To get the best deal, you need a brokerage that only works with buyers and never takes listings or works for sellers.

Trust True Real Estate, Sarasota’s Exclusive Buyer Agency

numbers. SCENE can also be found on Facebook.

SCENE publishes a minimum of twelve publications every year including regular and special issues. Our special issues are exactly that – quite special. Women on the SCENE, Men on the SCENE, Doctors on the SCENE, they are all valuable community resource guides. Each high quality, table top issue, brings the reader closer to unique people making a difference in our community through their businesses, philanthropy, skills or talents.

Our pledge and our mission for 2011 is clear. SCENE will continue to deliver good local stories and support the community in every way possible. We assure our readers that we will never compromise the quality of SCENE, cut corners, or print our magazine out of the area to save some money. We only believe in supporting the community in which we live. We assure our advertising partners that we will continue to build relationships to help grow their businesses and that we will increase the magazine’s visibility, not cut back. Our solid and widespread distribution method includes mailing to loyal readers, a mailing list cultivated over many years, as well as hand delivery of SCENE to business waiting rooms in both Sarasota and Manatee counties. SCENE is also sold in several book and independently owned local drug stores.

Our final pledge is to continue to support the nonprofit community as much

At no cost to you, work directly with the best!

as possible. During 2010, SCENE, as it does every year, donated more than $275,000 in free advertising, design work, and auction items in support of

William True

many local causes. Julie and I have become very close to many nonprofit

ABR, ABRM, AHWD, BS, CIPS, CRB,

lives. We encourage our readers to get involved by donating or volunteering to

CRS, e-PRO, GREEN, GRI, RSPS,

a nonprofit cause they believe in. When we lend a helping hand, we make our

SRES, TRC is in the top 1% of REAL-

TORS nationwide and has earned more professional certifications and designations than any other REALTOR in the State of Florida.

organizations and we admire and respect their importance in our everyday

community a better place for all.

Julie and I strive to offer our clients the best value for their hard earned dollars and become a true partner with all we are blessed to work with. We stand behind our magazine, its rich history, and its value to the community. In summation, the state of our union is undeniably strong.

As this is our philanthropy issue full of stories about great people, I encourage you to plan for tomorrow and take care of one another today. Try to do a good deed for someone whenever possible. No matter what changes we face in the

William True

Licensed Real Estate Broker, Licensed Mortgage Broker & Notary Public

world, we need to take care of each other.

Sincerely,

941.918.1956

For more info or to search homes:

TrueSarasota.com 12

scene |

December 2010

Ron Milton, Publisher of SCENE Magazine scenesarasota.com

Join Us for Our

HOLIDAY EVENTS and See What You May Get

You may wind up with more than you bargained for –

up to $150,000 or more!

Head to Toe Health Expo Thursday, December 2 • 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Join healthcare vendors from around Manatee County for complimentary healthcare screenings and education.

Light refreshments served.

Holiday Open House Wednesday, December 8 • 10:30 a.m.

Tour our model homes, learn about our services and enjoy lunch with our residents.

Planning for the Future Tuesday, December 14 • 4 p.m. or Friday, December 17 • 11 a.m.

Join us for a meeting to discuss the future in healthcare and how it relates to a Life Care Community such as Freedom Village.

Complimentary meal provided.

At Freedom Village it’s all about CHOICES – YOUR choices.

SIX FINANCIAL PLANS TO CHOOSE FROM OVER 20 FLOOR PLANS TO CHOOSE FROM LIFE CARE GUARANTEE

Snowbirds ... We now have choices for you too – visit us to learn more!

Call (941) 798-8122 today! www.brookdaleliving.com

A Life Care Community, Exceptional Experiences Every Day 6406 21st Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34209

SM

Exceptional Experiences Every Day is a Service Mark of Brookdale Senior Living Inc., Nashville, TN, USA. 51280EF-ROP02-1210

scene

Locally Owned, Operated & Printed For More Than 53 Years CEO/Publisher: Ronald Milton

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

Co-Publisher/Executive Editor: Julie A. Milton

We are a full sevice Agency specializing in:

Art and Production Director: Michelle Cross

Home • Auto • Umbrella • Life Health • Annuities • Long-Term Care

DAKKAK 941-921-6630 George & Mary Dakkak

INSURANCE

| www.dakkakinsurance.com

“Protecting you is our family business.”

Special Issue Director: Debbi Benedict

Contributing Writers: Debbi Benedict, Sue Blue, Sue Cullen, Gus Mollasis Steven J. Smith, Ryan G. Van Cleave Photographers: Cliff Roles, Carissa Warfield Principal Office & Mailing Address: 1343 Main St, Ste. 201, Sarasota, FL 34236 941-365-1119 • Fax: 941-954-5067 SCENESARASOTA.COM offers our current and recent issues, a comprehensive calendar of community events, photos of the latest social events and much more!

SCENE Magazine publishes 12 issues a year by RJM Ventures, LLC. Address editorial, advertising and circulation correspondence to the above address.

Sufficient return postage and self-addressed, stamped envelope must accompany all manuscripts, art work and photographs submitted if they are to be returned or acknowledged. Publisher assumes no responsibility for care of return of unsolicited materials. Subscription price: $12.95 per year, $19.95 for two years. All contents copyrighted. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.

ISSN 1535-8895.

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Shop our Large Showroom 14

scene |

December 2010

Special Publications: Women On The Scene Men On The Scene Doctors On The Scene Sarasota County Arts Council 2010/2011 Arts & Culture Guide

Dutch Haus Furniture 941-952-5646

3737 Bahia Vista Street Sarasota, FL 34232 dutchhausfurniture.com

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(941) 951-6660 W (941) 356-3970 C Melbagetsresults.com

Dr. B. Jimenez, D.M.D., P.A. University of Florida Graduate Serving Patients Locally since 1986

5917 S. Beneva Road, Sarasota | 941.924.2939 | www.BenevaDental.com ADA codes D0150.D0210.D1110 It is our policy that the patient and any other person responsible for payment has the right to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination or treatment, which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted fee or reduced fee service, examination, or treatment.

melbajimenez@michaelsaunders.com

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

1801 Main Street • Sarasota, FL 34236

bescene

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

View from The Powel Crosley Estate

Photo: Cliff Roles

Asolo Rep’s “Get the Scoop” Luncheon 12-01 11:30 am Asolo Repertory Theatre. Get the inside scoop from Marjorie North about the Asolo Rep and its productions. Tickets: $25-$45 / 941.351.9010 ext.4702 / asolorep.org

Designing Women Boutique’s Fashion Week & Gala 12-01 to 05. Various times and venues. The 6th Annual Designing Women Boutique Fashion Week features a tribute gala honoring Mary Ann Robinson, as well as couture runway shows, silent and live auctions, fabulous trunk shows, dinners and entertainment. Gala is 12-05 at 5:30 pm at Michael’s On East. Tickets: 941.366.5293 / designingwomenboutique.com

Holidays at the Crosley - Festival of Trees 12-01 to 08 11:00 am to 8:00 pm The Crosley Estate. Enjoy a plethora of holiday decorations, live entertainment, intimate afternoon teas, boat rides and festive wine tastings. Proceeds benefit the Crosley Estate Foundation. Tickets: $8 / 941.722.3244 / crosleymuseum.com

The 18th Annual American Craft Show 12-03 to 05. 10:00 am Sarasota-Bradenton International Convention Center. Juried show featuring works in clay, wood, glass, fiber, mixed-media, jewelry and more by more than 150 of the nation’s top craft artists. Tickets: $9/800.834.9437 / sarasotacraftshow.com

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scene |

December 2010

scenesarasota.com

2011

Circus Sarasota Gala “Under the Big Top” SAVE THE DATE:

Friday, January 21, 2011

Honoring Philip Mancini & Michael Klauber

MORE THAN A CIRCUS E N R I C H I N G • E D U C AT I N G • E N T E RTA I N I N G

2011 Winter Performances February 3-21, 2011 Join us for a Festive Celebration “Under the Big Top” featuring Exciting Circus Performances, Fine Dining , Silent & Live Auctions, Live Music & Dancing... ���������������������������

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“Under the Big Top” FIRST FIVE SHOWS...

ALL TICKETS HALF-PRICE Courtesy of ABC-7 & Circus Sarasota

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The Ulla Searing Big Top

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30th Annual St. Armands Holiday Night of Lights 12-03 6:00 pm St. Armands Circle. Watch “The Circle” magically come to life as St. Armands lights up with thousands of white lights, decorations and a four story Christmas tree.

Open to the public / starmandscircleassociation.com

An Olde Fashioned Village Christmas 12-03 6:00 pm Bradenton Village of the Arts. Featuring strolling carolers, Christmas cookies, special holiday displays, and a holiday Artist Market, plus visit with Santa by the fire.

941.746.4556 / villageofthearts.com

The Florida Center’s 23rd Annual Festival of Trees, Lights & Holiday Gifts 12-03 6:30 pm Michael’s On East. Featuring cocktails, live music, dancing, auctions and dinner. Black-tie Optional.

Tickets: $175 / 941.371.8820 ext. 1165 / thefloridacenter.org

36th Annual Singing Christmas Tree 12-03 to 12-12 First Baptist Church, Downtown Sarasota.

The performance features a multi-story tree, adorned with talented choir members. With the various musical pieces, the tree comes to life in an awe-inspiring light show. Tickets: $10 / 941.365.2846 / firstsarasota.org

New College Foundation Library Association’s Celebration Under the Mistletoe 12-04 6:00 pm Ringling Mansion. Benefits New College.

RSVP required. 941.487.4684 / ncf.edu

Downtown Sarasota Holiday Parade 12-04 Starting at Hollywood 20 and continuing to Gulfstream Avenue, this parade features decorated floats, marching bands and the guest of honor, Santa Claus!

Venice Christmas Boat Parade of Lights 12-04 At sundown, watch as brightly lit and colorfully decorated “Christmas boats” parade along the Intercoastal Waterway in Venice from the North Jetty south to the Circus Bridge.

La Musica Sonata a Due 12-06 6:00 pm Charles Ringling House. Music recital and dinner. Tickets: $150-$250 / 941.346.2601 lamusicafestival.org

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December 2010

scenesarasota.com

Lights in Bloom

A Tropical Holiday Celebration

December 17-23 & 26-27 6 - 9 pm Magically Illuminated Gardens Live Holiday Music Santa and Children’s Activities Paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax revenue.

SMJF’s Women’s Day

Horses & Holly

12-06 11:30 am Beatrice Friedman Theater. This annual event

12-11 6:30 pm Clermark Equestrian. Celebrate the holidays this

benefits the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation. Tickets: $54-

year at the second annual Horses & Holly Benefit Gala for the Boys

$126 / 941.371.4546 ext. 110 / smjf.org

& Girls Clubs of Sarasota County. Tickets: $45/941.322.9196/ horsesandholly.com

Backstage at the Ballet 12-09 7:00 pm Historic Asolo Theatre. Director Iain Webb in-

Christmas In Candy Land

terviews Sarasota Ballet Costume Designer Bill Fenner. Learn

12-12 11:00 am Michael’s On East. Meet Santa while enjoying in-

about the art of costume design and the special needs of a bal-

teractive edibles, face painting, balloon sculpting and mountains

let company. Tickets: $35 / 941.359.0099 / sarasotaballet.org

of amazing sweets! Tickets: $35 for adults, $10 for kids / 941.952.

WISH / christmasincandyland.kintera.org

JOY to the World Luncheon 12-10 11:30 am Hyatt Regency. Focused on improving the quality

Asolo Rep Starry Night Dinner

of life for youth aging out of foster care, this luncheon benefits

12-15 6:30 pm The Lake Club, Lakewood Ranch. Hosted by

JOY (Joining Our Youth, Inc.) Tickets: $75 / 941.360.9207

the Asolo Repertory Theatre, and sponsored by PNC Wealth Management, this dinner highlights the production of La Bête.

Holidays Around the Ranch

Tickets: $200 / 941.351.9010 ext. 4712 / asolorep.org

12-10 6:00 pm Main Street, Lakewood Ranch. Featuring luminous street attractions, an outdoor skating rink, lighting of the tree over

Selby Lights in Bloom

the fountain, crafts for kids and Santa. lakewoodranch.com

12-17 to 23, 26 & 27 6:00 pm Selby Gardens. Featuring magically illuminated gardens, live holiday music, Santa and a variety of children’s activities. Tickets: $12 / 941.366.9807 / selby.org

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December 2010

scenesarasota.com

Presents the 2010 Holiday Spectacular

The Greatest “Little” Show on Earth

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Adults $16 | Children (Under 12) $12

SHOW DATES & TIMES: Monday, December 27th, 7PM Tuesday, December 28th, 7PM | Wednesday, December 29th, 2pm & 7PM Thursday, December 30th, 7PM

941-361-6350 Box Office: 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota Receive a free bag of popcorn when you bring a canned food item for All-Faiths Food Bank.

www.sailorcircus.org Tickets Now Available for Purchase Online Paid for by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues

Debutante Ball

17TH ANNUAL

12-18 6:00 pm Sarasota Municipal Auditorium. Enjoy listening to Double Vision while dining on fare from Michael’s On

HONORING

GLORIA MOSS & FAMILY

East. Tickets: Youth-$100/Adults-$225 / 941.234.2239

JFCS Gala “Celebrating Silver” 12-19 5:00 pm Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Feaby nted prese ish ew the J g Council in s , Inc. Hou ation d n u Fo

turing a musical salute to JFCS and Rose Chapman. Tickets: $500 / 941.366.2224 ext. 142 / jfcs-cares.org

The Carreño Dance Festival 12-21 & 12-22 7:00 pm Sarasota Opera

SHIPS R O S SPON TICKETS E. & AILABL AV STILL

g... ubbin er, l c t h g ni inn Come ocktails, d grand c e enjoy ncing in th . a nd d ana style a 2011 Copacab

House. Featuring a star-studded roster of dance celebrities performing in a Holiday 941.328.1300 / carrenodancefestival.com

PAL Holiday Spectacular 12-27 to 30 PAL Sailor Circus. A Sarasota favorite and spectacular show for the Holidays. Tickets: $10-$16 / 941.361.6350 /

16 N EAST Y R A JANMUICHAEL’S O5:30

81 77-07kanchin.org 3 ) 1 (94 rnic CALL: fo@kobe

PM

Dance Spectacular. Tickets: $20-$65 /

in

All proceeds benefit Kobernick-Anchin’s Benevolent Assistance Fund.

d TRADEMARK

PAVERS c

sailorcircus.org

Save The Date: 1-07 13th Annual Thunder By the Bay Motorcycle Festival 1-08 Sunshine from Darkness Gala and Journey to Wellness Symposium 1-08 Perlman Music Program Celebration Concert and Perlman & Pearls Gala 1-14 Animal Rescue Coalition’s Dog’s Night Out 1-16 Generations – The Dorothy & Sol Levites Foundation Honoring Gloria Moss 1-19 The Artist Series of Sarasota Dinner Gala 1-21 Circus Sarasota’s The Art of Circus Gala 1-23 Van Wezel Foundation Gala with Dionne Warwick 1-29 Catholic Charities Ball scenesarasota.com

Paving a Beautiful Path Around Sarasota One Brick at a Time d

Custom Driveways

d

Patios & Walkways

d

Pool Decks

d

Gardens & Retaining Walls

Call 941.552.9890 / 941.809.3439 for a free design consultation estimate or visit our showroom at 4141 S. Tamiami, Suite 21 December 2010

| scene

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scene | social

View all photos at scenesarasota.com

2010 Key to the Cure M

ore than 600 guests attended the kickoff

Photography by Carissa Warfield

party for the annual Key to the Cure four-

day shopping event, sponsored by Saks Fifth Avenue and Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, Inc. Chaired by Susan Jones, Sally Schule and Kyla Weiner, the event benefited women’s

cancer

programs

at

Sarasota

Memorial Health Care System and netted more than $83,000. Models wore bras decorated by local artists and sold at a live auction.

Sally Schule, Kyla Weiner & Susan Jones

Cathy Milligan & Noel Brand

Laura Jessen & Kristiana Serbin

Charlie Ann Syprett, Kathy Hendricks, Patricia Schultz & Pam Ramhofer

Dr. Holly Barbour, Suzanne Atwell, Nancy Feehan & Carol Butera

Dr. Krista Toomre & Dr. Harold Johnson

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26

scene |

December 2010

scenesarasota.com

scene | arts & culture

1

2 3

1. PAL Sailor Circus 2. American Spirit Ensemble 3. Always, Patsy Cline

CULTURE MATTERS 4. American Craft Show

4

PR E S E N TE D BY TH E S A R A SOTA CO U NT Y A RT S CO U N C I L

D

ecember provides ample opportunity to fill your soul, become enchanted, get crafty, and ‘Walk After Midnight’.

18th Annual American Craft Show Sarasota December 3-5, 2010 The Annual American Craft Show, now in its 18th year, returns to the Sarasota-Bradenton International Convention Center. Festival coordinators hand-select the nation’s top craft artists, emphasizing technical skill, quality of workmanship, and originality of design. Sarasota-based artist Su Griggs has been selected to exhibit her hand-painted ceramic figures. See Su and 98 other artists feature outstanding works in ceramics, decorative fiber, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed-media, paper, wearable art, and wood.

Why it matters: This is a great opportunity to rub shoulders with artists from all over the United States and even get a head start on your Christmas shopping! Festival coordinators hope to inspire more artists from Sarasota County to participate in future shows. Interested artists should visit www.sarasotacraftshow.com to apply. Proceeds directly support the independent artists.

Always, Patsy Cline December 3-11, 2010 An audience favorite at Venice Theatre, Always, Patsy Cline is back for a special run on MainStage. This funny and touching tribute to one of the best-loved names in country music is based on the true story of Cline’s friendship with a Houston housewife and avid fan. Featuring all of Cline’s classic country hits including “I Fall to Pieces”, scenesarasota.com

December 2010

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These theatrical adventures bring curriculum to life. Programs are carefully selected to correspond with the Sunshine State Standards and National Standards for Education. The presentations by nationally and internationally recognized touring companies provide our schools’ students with educational and enriching programming that enhances curriculum, informs about the arts and entertains. Due to field trip budget cuts in the school system, the Van Wezel Foundation is providing busing reimbursement for all public schools.

The ability to work directly with an artist is a truly memorable experience, inspiring student creativity and enhancing understanding of the art form. Students have worked with performers from the Griffin Theatre Company, Twyla Tharp Dance Troupe, The Acting Company, Pilobolus, and other talented and remarkable performing artists.

As members of this prestigious program, the Van Wezel brings the finest arts educators to our community to work directly with teachers on arts integration teaching methods. Teaching in, through and about the arts allows exploration of literature, science, math and all other curriculum areas helping students remember content in a variety of ways while strengthening their understanding. The Van Wezel’s Education Department is the only partner in the country to have received seven national research grants on the impact of arts and education.

vwfoundation.org

941-366-5578

777 N. Tamiami Trail, 3rd Floor

Sarasota, FL 34236

Walkin’ After Midnight” and “Crazy.”

Why it matters: Go ‘crazy’ for Venice Theatres’ production of Always, Patsy Cline. Take this opportunity to treat someone from a younger generation to the music of another era. Your donations and a portion of all ticket sales benefit their education and out-

Stop Dreaming and

Make it Happen.

reach programs, currently in the middle of their fall curriculum.

American Spiritual Ensemble Sunday, December 5, 2010 The American Spiritual Ensemble, led by Dr. Everett McCorvey, will perform two concerts in the William E. Schmidt Opera Theater of the Sarasota Opera House on Sunday, December 5.

Founded in 1955, the American Spiritual Ensemble’s mission is to keep the American Negro Spiritual alive. Members are soloists in their own right and they have performed for audiences around the globe with their renditions of classic spirituals, opera, jazz, and Broadway numbers.

Why it matters: The American Negro Spiritual has a distinct place in our country’s history. The Negro Spirituals “The Gospel Train” and “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” actually refer to the Un-

Smooth. Solid. Beautiful.

derground Railroad, which aided many slaves in finding freedom.

These performances will feature a profound level of soul and sentiment that will serve as a reminder of the past and inspiration for the future. Proceeds from this event will benefit Sarasota Youth Opera’s next commission, Little Nemo in Slumberland.

Seasons of Enchantment Monday, December 27 through Thursday, December 30, 2010 PAL Sailor Circus Presents its Holiday Spectacular: Seasons of Enchantment. Four rings of circus excitement celebrating the four seasons performed by “The Greatest ‘Little’ Show on Earth” is guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. This is a mustsee event for “children of all ages”.

Why it matters: PAL Sailor Circus helps local youth develop

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No matter what your style, we are committed to making your dream home a reality. To learn more about our complete custom countertop services, from initial design through installation, call

941.377.7747 or visit dsiflorida.com.

life management skills, self-discipline and gain confidence while learning through the circus arts. They are halfway to reaching their first phase goal in their ‘Raise the Roof’ capital campaign. The primary function of this facility will be to serve as the permanent home of the PAL Sailor Circus youth program and headquarters for the Police Athletic League of Sarasota County.

This is a merely a taste of a few upcoming events and by no means an exhaustive listing. Want to see more events? Head over to SarasotaArts.org for additional events, artist profiles and information about Sarasota’s exciting season of arts and culture. scenesarasota.com

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December 2010

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Why GWIZ? Why Science Centers?

Why Why GWIZ? GWIZ?Why WhyScience ScienceCenters?

Centers?

Thomas Edison didn't learn to invent in school; in fact, he was a poor Thomas Edison invent ininschool; a apoor Thomas Edison didn't learn learn invent school; fact,he hewas was poor student and didn't dropped outtotoat an early age.ininfact, And yet, driven by an student and dropped out at an early age.

And yet, driven byby anan student and dropped outworld at anaround early age. yet, driven intense curiosity of the him, heAnd became one of the most intense curiosity of the world around him, he became one ofofthe most intense curiosity of the world around him, he became one the most prolific inventors in history.

Science, Technology, Engineering, Math prolific inventors prolific inventors in in history. history.

Science, Technology, Engineering, Math Science, Technology, Engineering, Math Today, formal science education is increasingly based on measurToday, formal science education isisincreasingly based Today, scienceprogress education increasingly basedononmeasurmeasurable, formal quantifiable within a rigidly structured curriculum. able, quantifiable progress within a rigidly structured curriculum. able, quantifiable progress within a rigidly structured curriculum.

Science centers, in contrast, typically impose no such curriculum, with Science centers, in typically no curriculum, with Science centers, in contrast, contrast, typicallyimpose impose nosuch such curriculum, with the course and pace of learning determined by the learners themthe course and pace of learning determined by the learners themtheselves. courseThe andfree-form pace of environment learning determined by the learners them- at of discovery and exploration selves. The free-form environment of discovery and exploration at selves.

Thecenters free-form environment of discovery andquestion: exploration at science such GWIZ often prompts "They're science centers such as as GWIZ often prompts the the question: "They're science centers such as GWIZ oftenactually prompts the question: "They're having a great time, learning anything?" having a great time, butbut areare theythey actually learning anything?" having a great time, but are they actually learning anything?" answer is important to understand the journey To To answer this,this, it isitimportant to understand thatthat the journey itselfitself is asis as To answer this, it is important to understand that the journey itself is asthe important as the destination.

Every learner starts and finishes important as the destination. Every learner starts and finishes the important as the destination. learner and finishes the science center experience aEvery different point on pathway. the pathway.

While science center experience at aatdifferent point onstarts the While science center experience at a different point on the pathway.

While LearnThrough ThroughPlay Play formal learning is characterized structure, memorization, Learn formal learning is characterized by by structure, memorization, and and Learn Through Play formal learning is characterized structure, memorization, and discipline, informal process isbyabout attraction, engagement, and discipline, thethe informal process is about attraction, engagement, and discipline, the informal process is about attraction, engagement, and ownership.

Neither is sufficient on its own; both approaches ownership. Neither is sufficient on its own; both approaches are are ownership.

Neither on its own; both approaches are necessary to develop asufficient passionate, deep understanding. necessary to develop aispassionate, deep understanding. necessary to develop a passionate, deep understanding.

Informal learning mirrors everyday life much more closely formal Informal learning mirrors everyday life much more closely thanthan formal Informal learning mirrors everyday life much more closely than instruction, itaisprocess a process which comes instinctually from the first instruction, andand it is which comes instinctually from theformal first instruction, and The it isThe a process comes instinctually from the first days of infancy. work of science centers (and otherother informal learndays of infancy. work of which science centers (and informal learndays of infancy.

The work of science centers (and other informal inging settings) mirrors thisthis natural path, andand not not merely in itsinopensettings) mirrors natural path, merely itslearnopening settings) mirrors this natural path, and not merely openended and exploratory nature: Early childhood learning is in closely tied tied ended and exploratory nature: Early childhood learning isitsclosely ended and exploratory nature: Early childhood learning is closely tied to the development and use of language.

The science center, in similar to the development and use of language. The science center, in similar to the development and use of language.

The science center, in similar fashion, provides a social learning environment – a place for people fashion, provides a social learning environment – a place for people to to gain new understandings by by articulating their It is It is fashion, provides a social learning environment –their aexperience. place for people gain new understandings articulating experience. nearly notnot to overhear of aof family or peer group to gainimpossible new understandings bymembers articulating their experience.

Itgroup is nearly impossible to overhear members a family or peer Face FacetotoFace Facewith withScience Science "talking through" a problem or a puzzle during a science center visit. nearly impossible not to overhear members of a family or peer group "talking through" a problem or a puzzle during a science center visit.

Face to Face with Science "talking through" a problem or a puzzle during a science center visit.

Documenting learning in the science center environment is challengDocumenting learning in the science center environment is challenginging because the evidence for learning outcomes is not always seenseen at at Documenting learning in the science center environment is challengbecause the evidence for learning outcomes is not always thethe same time as the experience provided by the center.

Sometimes ing because the evidence for learning outcomes is not always seen at same time as the experience provided by the center. Sometimes that "Aha!" moment takes place well after the time of the visit, when thethat same time moment as the experience bythe thetime center.

Sometimes "Aha!" takes placeprovided well after of the visit, when a later situation provides result may be abe a that moment takesadditional place wellcontext. after the The timeThe of the visit, when a "Aha!" later situation provides additional context. result may spark of innovation, a flash of insight, or simply a deeper undera later provides additional context.

The result may be a sparksituation of innovation, a flash of insight, or simply a deeper understanding of a fundamental concept.

Whichever it is, we consider that spark of innovation, a flash of insight,Whichever or simply itais,deeper under-that standing of a fundamental concept. we consider success. of a fundamental concept. Whichever it is, we consider that standing success. success.

GWIZ is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit corporation with the mission of being GWIZ is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit corporation with the mission of being the gateway for(c) lifelong adventures in science. of revenue GWIZ is a 501 3lifelong non-profit corporation withSources the Sources mission of being the gateway for adventures in science. revenue include admissions, public and private contributions, membership, Science in Action the gateway for lifelong adventures in science.

Sources of revenue include and private contributions, membership, Science in Action and specialadmissions, events. Therepublic are multiple volunteer opportunities includinclude admissions, public and private volunteer contributions, membership, and special events.

There are multiple opportunities Science in Action ing exhibit docent, membership specialist and classroom assistant. includand There are multiple volunteer includingspecial exhibitevents. docent, membership specialist andopportunities classroom assistant. ing exhibit docent, membership specialist and classroom assistant.

Get involved today!

Get involved today!

Get involved today!

Tues - Sat 10am - 5pm, Sun Noon - 5pm Tues - Sat 10am - 5pm, Sun Noon - 5pm 1001 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 941-309-GWIZ (4949) www.GWIZ.org Tues - Sat 10am -FL5pm, Sun Noon - 5pm 1001 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota, 941-309-GWIZ (4949) www.GWIZ.org 1001 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 941-309-GWIZ (4949) www.GWIZ.org

scene | from the desk of...

Dennis L. Stover

Vice President of Philanthropy, New College Foundation, Inc.

“F

Intelligent Giving Impacts Our World

rom My Desk” seems like it should read from my new desk! Since coming to work at New College, I have been immersed in planning a year-long, 50th

anniversary celebration that began in October at Founders’ Day. As a new staff member, it has given me the opportunity to really get to know the history and flavor of the state-designated honors college for the arts and sciences. But more im-

Gifted math student Josh Abbot received financial assistance

portantly, I’ve had the privilege to meet many of the students,

from the New College Foundation, and later won the presti-

faculty, staff and alumni who have shaped this internationally

gious Barry M. Goldwater undergraduate scholarship in math

renowned institution.

and science. The Pennsylvania native says, “The scholarships I’ve receive have given me the opportunity to focus on my

On my first donor trip to visit alumna Esther Barazzone ’67,

studies, rather than finding part-time work to pay my way.” He

she helped me see the true impact that New College has had

graduated a few years ago and went on to pursue a Ph.D. in

on the larger world. Esther was a Charter Scholar in our first

cognitive science.

graduating class and our very first Fulbright Scholar (now there are 57!). Today, she is the 18th president of Chatham

In recent years, we’ve focused on scholarships for students

University, where she has overseen the private college’s re-

who are the first in their family to attend college. I have found

newal and expansion leading to national recognition and ele-

their stories to be the most compelling. As First Generation

vation to university status in 2007. Esther refers to her experi-

Scholar Ron Overing told us, “My Dad says that this is the

ence at New College as “one of the most formative influences

American dream fulfilled.” Layla Corina Byrd expressed ap-

in my life, with enormous impact on my career.”

preciation to her donor sponsors, Bill and Jo Weiss. “Because of your generosity and vision, I hope to one day sponsor at

The reality is that Esther might never have been able to ex-

least one student in her pursuit of education.” Today’s econo-

perience what she refers to as New College’s “truly provoca-

my makes these and other types of need-based financial aid

tive, highlight individualized education” had it not been for the

especially vital, if New College is going to continue to attract

scholarship she received. In her footsteps have followed a

the best and brightest students from around the globe.

long line of scholars who have made their mark on the world, from the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of NY to a the

In my work, we talk about the successes of New College to

founder the Belize Zoo; from an Emmy-award winning pro-

donors every day. But when you bring it down to real success

ducer to a U.S. ambassador; from a Goddard space scientist

stories like those of Esther, Josh, Ron and Layla, it makes this

to a member of the U.S. House of Representatives.

desk a really great place to be sitting.

scenesarasota.com

December 2010

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scene | social

TM

2010 2011 S E A S O N

Leif Bjaland, Artistic Director

View all photos at scenesarasota.com

Mote Marine’s Oceanic Evening

M

ore than 300 ocean enthusiasts raised a toast to Mote Marine Laboratory’s golden years at Oceanic Evening,

Mote’s annual black-tie gala. This year’s theme, “Mote’s Fabulous 55th,” celebrated Mote’s 55 years of cutting-edge marine research, education and outreach. Proceeds will help

A Music Lovers Delight

Mote advance ocean science, education and marine animal rehabilitation. Guests at Michael’s on East enjoyed fine dining and dancing with live music by the Anthony DeLeon Orchestra.

Mote thanks the Oceanic Evening Host Committee: JoAnn Belack, Sandy Buchanan, Shannon Ciaravella, Paula Clark, Stacy Alexander, Joan Galvin, Judy Graham, Jane Graham Hyslop, Glenda Miller, Mollie Nelson, Mary Ellen Seyle, Beth

Photography by Wendy Dewhurst

Waskom, Vicki Wiese and Glenda Wright.

Join the chamber ensembles of the Sarasota Orchestra as they perform the music of the masters in the intimacy of Holley Hall.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LUDWIG - Thursday, Dec. 16, 5:30 p.m.

All Beethoven concert in celebration of the great one’s birthday

Sen. Mike & Dee Bennett with Lynne & Kelly Rubino

DON QUIXOTE - Thursday, Jan. 20, 5:30 p.m.

Strauss puts to music the classical tale of the man of La Mancha.

BY THE NUMBERS - Thursday, Feb. 10, 5:30 p.m.

Mendelssohn composed his endearing Octet when he was just 16.

• Subscriptions available for these three Chamber Soirees from $60.

Tim & Susan Clark

Judy Graham & Dick Donegan

• Come early and enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and wine tasting.

Come as you are. Leave different.

TICKETS FROM $24

www.SarasotaOrchestra.org | 941-953-3434 Kumar & Linda Mahadeven

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December 2010

Chris & Dr. Ken Pfahler scenesarasota.com

Weaving DREAMS

Dream Weaver and its sister boutique, Planet, beautifully shape your every mood.

Fashions available at Dream Weaver (941.388.1974) and Planet (941.388.3706), St. Armands Circle, Sarasota.

Open red envelope short coat and rouched leggings by Linda Lundstrom. Red mixed leather bag by Susan Riedweg scenesarasota.com

December 2010

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Left: Cotton cashmere oversized vneck sweater with cotton layering tank and knit pant all by Planet.

Available in many colors.

Susan Green necklace of golden pearls, pineapple quartz and afghan dangles Right: This Maria Pinto gown will make you stand out at your next special event.

Cover up on a chilly winter evening in a Shearling

by Iota of Kentucky.

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December 2010

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scenesarasota.com

December 2010

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scene | social

View all photos at scenesarasota.com

Snooty’s Gala

450 guests kicked off Manatee County’s social season at the South

Photography by Wendy Dewhurst

S

nooty’s Gala generated quite the buzz in downtown Bradenton as

Florida Museum. A dynamic duo, Helen King and Jeanie Kirkpatrick, co-chaired the popular event, now in its 18th year. The annual black-tie affair salutes Manatee County’s most famous resident and the event’s namesake, Snooty™ the manatee and supports the Museum’s educational programs. Tremendous sponsors made the event possible including Gold Sponsor Northern Trust, and Silver Sponsors CS&L CPAs and Jeanie and Sandy Kirkpatrick.

George & Sandy Najmy

John & Carol Rice with Rose & Ron Carlson

Stewart Moon & Morgan Thomas

Jeanie Kirkpatrick & Helen King

Kameron Partridge & Bart Hodgens

Enhance Your Landscape with

TRENT CULLENY LANDSCAPE CONTRACTOR, INC. Contact our experts for a free consultation, talk with our knowledgeable staff at the Garden Center for do-it-yourself tips, or visit our Floral Shoppe for fresh cut flowers & custom arrangements.

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1

Walk-In at Heritage Harbour 1040 River Heritage Blvd., Bradenton (941) 917- 6440 Monday - Friday, 8 am - 6:30 pm Saturday, 8 am - 4:30 pm Sunday, 9 am - 4 pm

Sarasota Memorial’s Walk-In Medical Centers are here when you or someone in your family has an urgent health concern. When it isn’t quite an emergency, but won’t wait for your regular doctor, you can get the medical care you need from one of ours. Just walk in. } Convenient. Each of our three Walk-Ins is strategically located throughout the community so that one is sure to be a short drive from wherever you are when you need us.

2

Walk-In at University Parkway 2401 University Parkway, Sarasota (941) 917- 1234 Monday - Saturday, 8 am - 8 pm Sunday, 9 am - 5 pm

} Fast. Our goal is for patients to be seen by a doctor within 30 minutes. Our Sarasota Memorial physicians are board-certified in emergency and family medicine – so you can trust you’ll get the care you need quickly. } Easy. If additional treatment is prescribed during your visit, you are easily connected with our hospital’s comprehensive resources (lab tests, imaging, physical therapy, etc.). No other walkin/urgent care clinic can say that.

Providing immediate care for health concerns including: } Lacerations & burns

} Urinary problems

} Skin rashes

} Flu

} Colds, coughs, sore throats

} Physicals (for school, sports, job applications, etc.)

} Eye injuries } Sprains, strains & fractures

WALK-IN CENTERS W

Visit smh.com for maps and directions!

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Walk-In at Gulf Gate 6130 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (941) 917- 5678 Monday - Saturday, 8 am - 8 pm Starting January 1, 2011: Sunday, 10 am - 4 pm

No appointments are necessary.

Most insurance plans are accepted and discounts are available for self-pay patients.

Hours subject to change seasonally.

Patients less than 3 months old cannot be treated at our walk-in centers. They should be seen by their pediatrician or in the event of an emergency, be taken to the nearest ER.

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hat do you have on your Christmas/Hanukkah/ Kwanza

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our stellar Sarasota social season!

A father-daughter waltz promenade – what could be more enchanting? At the Sarasota Orchestra Debutante Ball chaired by Robin Serbin, that particular dance is the highlight of the evening and a sure to be heavily photographed moment by the teary-eyed moms. Gina and Ric Gregoria’s delightful daughter, Ashleigh, will be one of the debs in her gloriously dreamy white gown. As Gina told me, the best thing about having Ashleigh in the deb program, was being able to spend quality time with her during that hectic senior year and one of the most joyful things was planning her Medieval Night’s Dream Royal Ball party with authentic costumes. Of course, the Gregorias are known for their lavish and inventive deb parties. Other fab deb parties this year were Betsy and Tom Marshall’s daughter Anna’s USO officer party, held fittingly on Sept. 11, Karen and Bill Merrill’s daughter Christine’s 007 James Bond casino party, and Jody and John Maxwell’s daughter Carlin’s college football game day party.

A very special night for very special young women.

New College Library Association is

38

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December 2010

scenesarasota.com

Lights, and Holiday Gifts chaired by

of mistletoe magic with their Celebration

Melissa Caldwell and Sonya Dlug.

Under the Mistletoe. The Charles Ringling

This exquisite evening has lots going on

Mansion will sparkle with holiday cheer

from having well-known comedian Tim

and festive music from the Dave Mankes

Wilkins as the auctioneer to having

Trio. New board president, Julie Riddell,

the Sarasota Soul Sensation as the

shared with me that it is her fondest hope

band. A few of the extraordinary auction

that next year the organization can re-

items are a trip to the Montana home of

establish the party as the grand ball of

former board chair Barbara Brown and

the holiday season. It was the first gala I

husband, Tom, an Italian villa (hmmm, I

ever chaired and I know for many others,

wonder whom that belongs to?), gorgeous

it was their first, too. For 40 years, it was

pearl jewelry from Barb Sweeney and

considered one of the premier galas of

always the big favorite, 26 weekly lobster

the year and a definite must do event, but

dinners donated by Michael’s On East. I

two years ago during the economic crisis,

don’t think I should have mentioned that

NCLA decided to take a bit of a sabbatical

last one, as now all the event chairs are

and let it be a cocktail party with the New

going to ask Phil for it! Bonnie Mead

College Foundation. I am keeping my

has designed and donated Christmas

fingers crossed that next year, I can once

wreaths, each uniquely decorated. Major

again pull out my red ball gown and dance

sponsors are Comcast, Caldwell Trust,

the Jingle Bell Rock.

KSC Advertising, and Dr. and Mrs.

Always an intimate and captivating

Mitchell Kurzner.

evening, La Musica is celebrating its 25th

Have you been a nice little girl or boy

anniversary with Sonata a Due chaired by

this year, at least in public? If so, you can

Deborah Beacham, Janet Hunter, and

join Santa at Make-a-Wish Foundation’s

Rachele Rivolta. Janet revealed to me

Christmas in Candyland chaired by

that in honor of the anniversary, everything

the sweetest sweet of all, Stephanie

will be very silvery with lots of poinsettias

Hannum at Michael’s On East. You can

for the season. Also being held at the

even buy your way onto Santa’s nice

historic Charles Ringling Mansion, the

list and have your donation matched by

seated dinner promises to be exquisite

JCI Jones Chemical. Lots of interactive

with a sumptuous meal by Michael’s On

edibles, which is an oh so fancy way of

East. Executive Director, Sally Faron tells

saying cookie decorating, face painting,

me the highlight of the evening is the recital

and balloon sculpting will be going on

by Daniel Avshalomov, on viola, and

while you indulge in delectable sweet

Derek Han, on piano. It will feature works

treats. Yummy, yum, yum!

by Brahms and Bach, the latter being a

When Marjorie North divulged to

special transcription by Avshalomov for

me she was chairing the Get the Scoop

viola and piano. Oh my, I feel extremely

Luncheon for the Asolo Angels, I thought

cultured and civilized just saying it.

she was finally breaking her silence on all

One of the hidden gems in our

the delicious dirt she has picked up over

community, The Florida Center for Child

the years, but alas, no. Getting the scoop

and Family Development, is once again

refers to all the dish that Asolo Rep’s

hosting the marvelous Festival of Trees,

Producing

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once again trying to find that particular kind

Artistic

Director,

Michael

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Edwards is going to share about the heavily anticipated Bonnie and Clyde musical debuting at the esteemed theatre.

Marjorie told me she has cleaned out her gift closet to find all sorts of spectacular door prizes. Now that is reason enough

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fundraising records (over $500,000) for Gerri Aaron, the supernova chair of Jewish Family and Children Services’ Celebrating Silver – A Musical Salute to JFCS and Rose Chapman. They never even had to print invitations for this Ritz Carlton black-tie evening. All tickets sold at $500 and above. This black-tie event

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the event colors specially chosen to be holiday neutral and non-denominational.

A highlight of the afternoon will be a tribute to Mary Jane Brantley by the Gocio Song and Dance Kids. Also, there will be a small live auction by auctioneer Jimmy Dean and a bazaar with 12 themed baskets. Sponsors include Palm Printing and SunTrust. scenesarasota.com

Glamour gals all, Victoria Leopold, Flora Major, and Ida Zito are chairing this year’s Designing Women Boutique’s Fashion Week Gala. Here’s to You Mrs.

Michelle

Robinson will be a gala tribute honoring Realtor, GRI, ABR, PMN, TRC, CSP

community philanthropist Mary Ann

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Robinson. Headlining the evening is the always fun and frolicking fashion show by 30 local social leaders, followed by a live auction with auctioneer Michael Klauber, which is only fitting since the event is in the Michael’s On East ballroom. Auction items range from a trip to Diane and

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Bob Roskamp’s Pennsylvania estate to a fishing trip with Warren Coville. As an aside to the evening, in another effort to honor Mary Ann, DWB is hosting a blood

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transformed into a glittering holiday wonderland for Holidays at the Crosley, Festival of Trees to benefit the Powel

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Home Furnishings

by Natalie Gundrum. Holiday teas and antique cars on the lawn, along with over

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50 decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, and vignettes by the area’s top designers

Estate Liquidation

and decorators, such as Joyce and

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Jeff Hart, Roger Capote of the Naked Florist, the Sarasota Garden Club, and Christine Brown, will charm all who attend this holiday favorite. Sponsors include Dolphin Aviation, Holiday Pools, Najmy Thompson, and Congressman Vern Buchanan with wife Sandy.

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happiest of holidays!

Until next time....TaTa! Debbi Benedict is SCENE’s society maven

A 501 (C)(3) non-profit organization Benefiting local Arts & Humanities

and Special Issues Director. Contact Debbi at 941-483-4460 or debbi@benedictandco.com scenesarasota.com

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NEW COLLEGE: A Leader in Liberal Arts Education

O

n October 11, 1960, a small liberal arts college was founded on the banks of Sarasota Bay. For five decades, New College has played a key role in Sarasota’s history and in its emergence as a hub of higher education. In turn, the College has benefited from the unwavering support of the local community and its leaders. From the very beginning, New College’s progressive academic philosophy reflected high

academic standards, close student-faculty collaboration, independent research and student-centered curriculum. Today, New College is the honors college of the State of Florida and a national leader in liberal arts education. Year after year, New College faculty and students garner top prizes and awards, and alumni earn distinctions in the workplace and make contributions to public service and global change. Here are some of their stories.

SCIENTIST AMY CLORE: ROLE MODEL FOR YOUNG WOMEN

D

id you know that 50 percent of the calories consumed by human beings

come from a particular tissue in grains called endosperm? That corn, known scientifically as maize, is a major staple crop in Central and South America and Sub-Saharan Africa? Or that the starch in corn is a primary source for biodegradable plastics?

Associate Professor of Biology Amy Clore can tell you a lot about corn. She helped write and win a $4.93 million, five-year grant from the National Science Foundation enabling New College and four other institutions to conduct cutting-edge research into how to breed better quality, higher-yielding lines of corn to feed the

Three New College biology students — Matt Anderson, Alyssa

world’s hungry. Clore is one of five lead researchers on the grant,

Sonchaiwanich and Sarah O’Connor — have been working

funded as part of the Plant Genome Research Project.

with Clore to analyze different lines of corn. The project will follow the students’ progression through school, allowing them to use

“Identifying the genes that are important for the earliest

skills they learn in upper classes.

phases of endosperm (think the milky part of corn on the cob) development will likely be relevant for other grain crops as well,

“Students are currently participating in research using lasers

such as wheat and oats,” says Clore. “And it may help scientists

to isolate specific cells and determine what genes they are

learn how to use corn more efficiently for biodegradable plastic

expressing,” explains Clore. “We’ve also forged new ties with

cups and shopping bags.”

UF and USF, which have provided access to additional maize

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tissue and a hi-tech confocal microscope, respectively.”

Last summer, O’Connor and Sonchaiwanich traveled to the

ALUM JACK COLLINS: CARING FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

University of Arizona to work with the principal investigator, Dr. Brian Larkins. The grant covered most of their travel costs and provided stipends.

“It’s a phenomenal opportunity for our students to work in a larger laboratory environment, to be exposed to grad students and post-doctoral research associates,” claims Clore. “They can participate in seminars, present their findings and later

Barbara Banks Photography

attend conferences.”

“I’ve always involved students in my work,” adds Clore, who joined the faculty in 2001. “But now I have the funding to support it.”

Research is being conducted in a new greenhouse built by the College in support of the grant. “New College has been incredibly supportive of the project,” states Clore. “We would not have been able to participate without a greenhouse laboratory.”

D

r. Jack Collins graduated from New College in 1992 with a degree in biology. As a young boy in Lakeland, FL, he

had always been interested in the sciences.

The community benefits, too. Clore and her students have

“My father was ill, and I spent a lot of time around physicians and

begun to conduct outreach activities at the Suncoast School

hospitals,” recalls Collins, who is the Chief of Internal Medicine

for Innovative Studies to teach its K-8 students about seeds

at Sarasota Memorial Hospital and an assistant professor at

and grains and their importance to healthy nutrition. Her two

Florida State University College of Medicine. “I could see how

children are also students there — which transitions nicely to

my family benefited from good advice and caring physicians.”

Amy Clore as role model for young women.

At New College, Collins felt sure he wanted to become a “As a post-doctorate student, I sought out women scientists as

marine biologist or embryologist. “I was pretty hot and heavy

role models,” recalls Clore. “But most of them dropped out of

into cell biology and the environment,” recalls Collins. “My

the field when they had families. I knew that I

mentors at New College were professors

wanted to have children. After a while, I made

John Morrill, Sandra Gilchrist, Paul

a conscious decision to put my energies into

Scudder and Al Beulig.” In medical school,

becoming my own role model.”

Collins used his New College experiences with scanning electronic microscopy, cell

And indeed she is. Clore defended her

culture

dissertation days after having her daughter,

get into research labs that were typically

and

cytobiology

preparation

to

now 13. Her 10-year-old son, born during her post-doctoral

inaccessible to medical students. “I even wrote a couple of

fellowship, has helped create booklets for outreach programs.

papers on cancer biology using the techniques taught by

Both children have spent time in the greenhouse.

Professor Morrill,” he remembers.

“I tell my female students that it’s not easy to be a scientist

At New College, Collins learned about independent study and

with a family, but it’s possible,” affirms Clore. “Today, there are

the value of lifelong learning, which he says is “exactly what

many more role models for young women, and I’m proud to be

it takes to be a good physician,” since medicine is changing

one of them.”

all the time.

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December 2010

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“New College influenced every part of my life,” states Collins.

“The curriculum is individually tailored to every student, and there are no boundaries. Every faculty member with whom I interacted was there as a resource for me.”

NEW COLLEGE ACCOLADES 57 Fulbright Scholars (more, proportionately, than Harvard and Stanford)

2nd Public Feeder School to Top Graduate Programs (Wall Street Journal)

A typical Novo Collegian, Collins followed a unique path, pursuing both internal medicine and pediatrics. After graduating from medical school at the University of South Florida, he completed a

3rd Best Value in America (The Princeton Review) 5th Best Public College/University (U.S. News & World Report)

four-year MedPeds residency at the University of Texas, Houston.

“We’re moving in the direction of treating the whole patient,” “I was fairly certain I wanted to be an internist,” he says. “But

he says, “and I believe that you can’t do that without treating

when I saw kids coming in so sick and how their resilient bodies

the whole family. Seeing all ages helps me understand the

bounced back quickly with stellar care, I couldn’t make up my

dynamics of the whole family.”

mind, so I decided to get board certified in both.” Today he is a partner at MedPeds of Sarasota, which serves the entire family,

Collins looks back on his New College experience with awe.

from babies and their parents to retirees and the elderly.

“I met some of my best lifelong friends there,” he says. “They were exceptional people with whom I shared common goals

Collins feels that his practice is well matched to what is

and principles. I truly believe that New College is an asset to

happening in health care today.

Sarasota and our entire area.”

STUDENT NICOLE HOKAYEM: MAKING PERSONAL CONNECTIONS

N

icole Hokayem has traversed the globe — from Calcutta to Paris, Orlando and Beirut. Now in her

second year at New College, she is studying psychology and anthropology, fitting for someone who so cherishes personal connections with faculty, fellow students and people in need.

Barbara Banks Photography

Hokayem spent her early years in Beirut, Lebanon. Her mother was a nurse before leaving the field to raise her family. Her father was a chef in Lebanon before fleeing the Civil War. Hokayem is the first in her family to pursue a bachelor’s degree and receiving scholarship money was crucial for her to attend college.

In high school, Hokayem worked as a waitress to pay for trips to

for her residents, she remembers how hard it was to be away

France and India. She volunteered with children with disabilities

from her family.

at Shishu Bhavan, an orphanage in Calcutta founded by Mother Teresa. She and her friends sponsored a family whose father

“My sister was growing up without me, and my brother was

lost his legs in a bus accident. They helped his children attend

being bullied in school,” she says. “I wanted to do something,

school, found him a job and raised money to pay his rent. But

but I couldn’t.”

most profoundly for Hokayem, she got to hear his life story.

Hokayem turned that energy toward the local community.

It is with this compassion that Hokayem embraces her position

Through a recent independent study project at New College,

as resident assistant to 81 students. Hokayem has always

Hokayem and a group of students planned an advocacy-based

been a role model for her younger siblings. Now a role model

project with Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) to

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December 2010

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45

reach out to local middle-school students about violence prevention.

Hokayem values the tight-knit community at New College. “You tend to know everyone, but it has surprised me how well I can get to know people,” she says. “I had coffee with

CELEBRATE WITH US!

As a resident assistant, Hokayem continues to be the ‘big sister,’ listening, mediating, bringing

GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTE DINNER

people together and helping her residents balance the academic rigors of this small honors

6pm, Friday, February 11

college. She wants to get into social work, perhaps working with children with disabilities. For

The Ritz Carlton Sarasota

my professor the other day. I don’t know if I could do that at a bigger school.”

now, she likes to listen and be there for people in need.

$275/ticket or $500/couple.

(Two tickets included with your 1960 Society donation of $2,500 or more.)

NEW COLLEGE AT 50 FESTIVAL 9am – 6pm, Friday and Saturday, February 11 & 12 Free! Mini-classes, panel discussions, student performances, alumni workshops, campus tours, history displays and food vendors on campus.

NEW COLLEGE FOUNDATION: SUPPORTING 50 YEARS OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

New College of Florida relies on private dollars to maintain our exemplary institution. You can support science programs and students through scholarships and research travel grants. You can help us retain a superb faculty by endowing a chair or underwriting independent research. Or you can name some of our new facilities — the Academic Center and Plaza, International Studies Building, Residence Halls, Public Archaeology Lab and Black Box Theater.

Your cash gifts, planned/legacy giving or corporate sponsorship are some of the ways to make a tax-deductible donation to New College. To discuss these opportunities with a professional gifts officer, contact us today.

New College Foundation | 941-487-4800 | Foundation.ncf.edu

CELEBRATION ON THE BAY CONCERT AND FIREWORKS 5 – 10pm, Saturday, February 12 New College Bayfront Free! Sarasota Orchestra concert includes the world premiere of a new work by alumnus Silas Durocher, followed by fireworks, birthday cake and more music.

For details, visit 50th.ncf.edu or call our events office at 941-487-4888.

Help support our anniversary with a special, one-time gift of $1,960 or more.

46

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December 2010

scenesarasota.com

Stephanie Hefner & The Academy for Leadership and Social Development “A

foundation

of

proper

manners

and etiquette, with a value of self and others, are imperative to the success of our children. The cornerstone of our organization is providing education to children and teens which will improve and develop their communication skills and social development capabilities.”

Programs and seminars are offered to schools, non-profit organizations, and after school programs. Classes given by the Academy include instruction on peer pressure, bullying, goal setting, interviewing,

social

interaction

and

the importance of community. Hefner notes, “Children and families that are empowered with knowledge and social development skills make positive life choices, effectively set goals and reach life’s fullest potential.”

Hefner understands the multifaceted social

and

cultural

issues

facing

our community. “Our curriculum is specifically designed to assist the distressed and underprivileged with the objective of lessening neighborhood

T

he changing world around us has created new and complex challenges

tensions and combating community deterioration and juvenile delinquency.”

for families and their capacity to raise children to be productive citizens and contributing members of society. Our education system and local

governmental agencies are constantly seeking innovative ways to engage our youth and prepare them for the future that lies ahead.

Responding to these challenges, The Academy for Leadership and Social Development (the “Academy”) was founded with the objective to teach at-risk, underprivileged and disadvantaged young people confidence, respect, integrity and empowerment. The founder of the Academy, Stephanie L. Hefner explains,

For further information about the Academy for Leadership and Social Development please contact Stephanie L. Hefner Founder/CEO at ceo@academyforleadership.net or 941.487-4076.

Digital Safety Net Providing Valuable & Affordable Peace of Mind

If your possessions were suddenly lost in a hurricane, flood, fire, or burglary, could you supply the police or your insurance company with a detailed report of their exact content and value?

Most of us can’t, which is the reason Jeff and Anita Cordes (right) of Bradenton founded Digital Safety Net — a company that offers its customers a comprehensive, confidential property inventory, customized to meet their needs.

Jeff Cordes, whose background lies in supply chain management, said the company was founded because he and Anita saw a real need for it in their own community.

“We compile personal property inventories for residential clients and business asset inventories for commercial clients,” Cordes said. “If we go to someone’s home, we document their possessions so that they have records in the event of a loss, for their insurance claim. They can also use it for a pre- or post-moving checklist.

That’s ideal for those who own multiple residences.”

Cordes added he uses high-definition video inside and outside of a home or business, capturing everything from landscaping, grills, and patio furniture to a complete sweep of every room of the structure, from floor to ceiling.

“That gives the client a nice video tour and a point of reference, to show what was in the building,” Cordes said. “It also gives us the means to accurately depict and organize their information. We then go in with a still camera and take wideangle shots of all the rooms and each wall. Then we go back again and take close-up shots of individual items.”

A home inventory takes about one hour per 1,000 square feet of building space, he added, and each visit is customized to a client’s particular set of possessions. All inventories are stored

electronically on a secured server and on a CD, DVD, or flash drive. Hard copies of your inventory are also stored off-site for additional back-up.

According to Anita Cordes, “Some people have a house full of antiques, others may have just remodeled their kitchen. So their appliances are very important to them. Others may have a lot of valuable electronic equipment. It all depends on what they want documented.”

The company offers free estimates. Its affordable fee structure for residential personal inventory plans is based on the square footage of your home and post inventory processing is included in the base price. Small business asset inventories are also available as well as the documentation of special collections such as coins, antiques or fi rearms.

Digital Safety Net is fully bonded, and a member of the National Association of Home Inventory Professionals.

For more information about getting a free estimate from Digital Safety Net, call Jeff and Anita Cordes at 941.713.4507 or log on to their website, www.DigitalSafetyNetFl.com.

scene | social

View all photos at scenesarasota.com

USF’s Brunch on the Bay T he University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee’s

17th Annual Brunch on the Bay was held at the

Photography by Cliff Roles

Powel Crosley Estate on the Sarasota Bay Front.

Brunch on the Bay was established in 1994 as a signature event to build community awareness and to raise scholarship dollars. This year, the gathering attracted over 900 supporters from Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto Counties and raised over $267,000 in gifts, state match and in-kind service. Brunch on the Bay has inspired more than $3.6 million in gifts, state match, endowment earnings and in-kind support.

Alice Rzepka & Richard Hammett

Sheri Gooby with Bre & Jeb Mulock

Veronica Brady & Teri Hansen scenesarasota.com

Lynn & Dr. Arthur Guilford

Lesley Edwards & David Dignam

Scott & Gilda Dennis

Renee Phinney & Sean Murphy

Arlene & Gordon Okawa

Keith & Debbie Coutler, Lora Bedford & Darryl Turner

Judy Genshaft with Joel & Debby Momberg

Dana Soldati & Todd Jacobson

Larry & Pat Thompson December 2010

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Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice: Giving ‘til it helps

By Steven J. Smith

In this season of giving, perhaps no organization exempliďŹ es the spirit of generosity better than the Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice.

As its website states, the foundation partners with nonproďŹ t organizations by funding operating grants, program-related investments, and board development, along with providing endowment fund management and other resources and assistance to community organizations.

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Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice was created in 1995

works is as a catalyst for disparate groups looking to find a common

and this past year surpassed $100 million in grants invested in the

cause, such as the response to the recent Deepwater Horizon oil

community, according to Greg Luberecki, its director of marketing

spill. “Oil hadn’t come to our region, but Mote Marine Laboratory

and communications. “Gulf Coast Community Foundation is all

knew the importance of getting out there, monitoring the waters,

about the community,” Luberecki said. “Our mission is improving

conducting research, and getting baseline samples in case there

quality of life in the communities we serve, and we work with many

was damage,” he said.

generous philanthropists in our region to ensure that our nonprofit community is strong and can provide the support and the services

Gulf Coast provided a $60,000 grant to kick-start an effort by Mote to

that are needed here.”

quickly initiate the research and collect the baseline samples. “We can’t thank the Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice enough for

Luberecki added that the foundation extends its reach to “all areas

this lead gift,” said Dr. Kumar Mahadevan, president of Mote Marine

of our community’s life: arts, culture, health and human services,

Laboratory and Aquarium, at the time of the grant. “The impact from

education, civic affairs, and the environment.”

this spill is going to be tremendous and as the response progresses, the need for funding to understand the impact is going to be great.

In addition, the foundation works with donors and their advisors to invest

This grant will help cover the costs associated with doing some initial

charitable resources in organizations and causes that matter to them.

planning and fact-finding but the scope of work to determine the effects of the spill on our region’s environment is quite enormous.”

Asolo Angels One particular set of donors in this regard is Warren Coville and his

With that $60,000 grant from Gulf Coast, Mote began its efforts.

wife Margot, who rallied fellow supporters of their beloved Asolo

Then the magic happened. The community, quickly recognizing

Repertory Theatre this year. Coville, who is co-chair of the Asolo’s

the importance of the effort, rallied around Mote and raised an

endowment and capital campaign, sought gifts from donors to aid

additional $300,000. “That’s one of the ways we characterize what

the theater in purchasing property in January at 1009 Tallevast Road

a community foundation does,” Luberecki said. “We catalyze the

for $1.65 million to serve as a much-needed production center.

community. Once Mote got going, they were able to leverage that and turn it into $300,000 more from community donors to support

“The need for the production center campus was brought about by

their research.”

the high quality productions staged at Asolo Rep,” Coville said. “We are achieving national and world-wide attention and stature and we

Other Foundation Initiatives

require the same high quality in our production facilities in order to

The Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice supports a number of

ensure our continued success.”

local initiatives, forged to foster a better environment for area residents.

Among these are:

The 45,000 square foot building now houses scenery and production facilities and the theatre’s vast costume and prop collection. Consolidation

Because It Matters — Created three years ago, this program

of these facilities into one state of the art center offers the theatre more

promotes civility in workplaces, neighborhoods, civic organizations,

efficient operations, immediate cost savings and opportunities to better

and schools. The idea is to encourage citizens to communicate in a

serve the cultural community here and throughout the nation. Throughout

more respectful way, improving public discourse and strengthening

its more than 50-year history, the scenic production of Asolo Rep had

the social fabric. For more info, log on to www.becauseitmatters.net.

been located in an off-site rental. After renovations, Asolo Rep moved into the facility this year. Naming opportunities are still available within

Building Better Boards — According to its website, the foundation’s

the building, which will help pay for the renovation costs and endow its

effort to promote good board governance has reached over 1,100

future maintenance and operations.

board members at more than 100 nonprofit organizations, through its training and ongoing board development resources. Boasting a

“The philanthropy that the Covilles helped inspire in 2010 ensured that,

cadre of governance consultants, it provides their expertise in aiding

even as Gulf Coast Community Foundation responded to an increase in

area boards with issues such as fundraising and strategic planning.

critical health and human services needs, support for vital arts organizations in our community, like Asolo Rep, did not drop off,” Luberecki said.

CareerEdge Funders Collaborative — Aimed principally at the health care industry, this initiative moves low-wage workers

A Vote for Mote

into higher paying jobs while providing employers in the Manatee-

Luberecki added another way the Gulf Coast Community Foundation

Sarasota region with much-needed, skilled employees.

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Florida 911 Reform — Spurred by the tragic abduction, rape, and murder of North Port resident Denise Amber Lee, the foundation commissioned an independent study of Florida’s 911 system. A result of that study was a new law requiring uniform training and certification of 911 operators statewide.

Florida BRAIVE Fund — With a $5 million gift from the California Community Foundation’s Iraq Afghanistan Deployment Impact Fund, the foundation provided aid in 25 counties in central and southwest Florida to assist veterans of these conflicts.

Gulf Coast Leadership Institute — Designed to develop emerging leaders committed to our region, this institute consists of diverse professionals and volunteers representing the public, private, and independent sectors.

STEM Education — Standing for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, this initiative provides resources and funding to secondary education, primarily in the science and math fields.

The Florida Independent — Funded by a $352,000 matching grant to Gulf Coast Community Foundation through the Knight Community Information Challenge, this experiment in online journalism is designed to use new media and technology for local news and information projects.

“Gulf Coast identifies strategic opportunities to improve our community,” Luberecki said. “These different initiatives stem from research conducted or commissioned by the foundation and others, and they always have the goal of effecting long-term systemic change.”

Luberecki added that the foundation was particularly gratified with the successes of STEM, Florida 911 reform and the BRAIVE Fund efforts. “The STEM project looks to change the way science and math are delivered to middle school and high school students in southern Sarasota County and northern Charlotte County,” he said. “It helps teachers prepare students for new science and math standards

Clockwise from top: A Mote scientist prepares “Nemo,” an underwater robot, to monitor the Gulf of Mexico after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

The Foundation’s “Because It Matters” civility initiative is thriving at schools like Venice Middle School/Oak Park South.

from the state. But beyond that, the STEM project will give students the opportunity to participate in internships and job-shadowing, so they can see how science and math apply in the working world.”

Asolo Repertory Theatre donors Warren and Margot Coville.

Florida 911, Luberecki added, has already helped produce new legislation at the state level. “The result

This Marine received equine-assisted therapy through a program supported by the BRAIVE Fund, which has invested $5 million in the work of nonprofits that help Florida veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.

will be a safer community, both locally and for all Floridians,” he said. “As for BRAIVE, grants to nonprofit organizations provided emergency financial assistance, counseling, health care, and job placement for recent veterans and their family members.” Luberecki added the foundation was taking lessons learned from the BRAIVE Fund initiative to create a policy paper that will provide future recommendations on how the entire community can assure that obligations to our troops are honored.

Want to know more about the Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice and the countless opportunities it offers for establishing worthy funds, planning legacies or applying for grants? Log on to their website, www.gulfcoastcf.org, or call them at (941) 486-4600.

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December 2010

The “Because It Matters” initiative has brought civility lessons to preschools and summer camps as well as local businesses. scenesarasota.com

scene | social Pines of Sarasota Foundation’s The Wit and Wisdom of Aging

View all photos at scenesarasota.com

than 300 guests to Pines of Sarasota Foundation’s The Photography by Cliff Roles

C

o-Chairs Kimberly Bald and Heather Clark welcomed more

Wit and Wisdom of Aging at Michael’s on East. The luncheon featured a panel discussion moderated by Gwen MacKenzie with panelists Bob Delaney, James Duffy and Gale Fulton Ross.

Through entertaining stories, each panelist presented views on aging, wit and wisdom, ranging from humorous to deeply touching. The proceeds from the event support the resident needs and programs of Pines of Sarasota.

John Overton, J.R. Wells Purmont & Paul Hartman

Patty Bettle, Barbara Dickinson & Mary Scheb

Bob Delaney, Gwen MacKenzie, Gale Fulton Ross & James Duffy

Gloria Moss & Jay Berman

Mike & Jewel Ash

Melanie Di Virgilis, Kimberly Bleach, Kelly Morell & Kirsten Fulkerson scenesarasota.com

Kim Bald, Estelle Crawford & Heather Clark

Lynn Currin, Doug Mrstik & Anne Garlington

Lois Schulman, Jim Tollerton & Michael Saunders December 2010

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Happy Endings Begin at Glasser/ Schoenbaum Human Services Center…

Jennifer and Sierra.

Jennifer entered a First Step program the first time addicted and pregnant. After completing that program and while working to be reunited with her two older children, she received pain medication post dental work, resulting in a relapse that took her to an all-time low – in jail. Jennifer did not give up; after her release, she received a new case plan and entered a First Step Outpatient Program at the Glasser/Schoenbaum Center. Now she has graduated from the program and the reunification process has been completed.

For the first time Jennifer and her children live under the same roof. Her daughter Sierra says, “Mom is happier now… and she keeps her job for a long time now, too.”

The Kekahuna Family. “I was told I was having one boy and it turned out to be two girls, two months early” is the story of Healthy Start client Kenani Kekahuna. The morning after their birth, Healthy Start was there to help with supplies. The agency has stayed with the family via home visits, referrals and developmental checks to make sure the twins were on track. Suffering from post partum depression, Kenani was on the phone with her case worker almost daily for advice and support. When the calls slowed and she was asked if things were OK, Kenani could happily reply, “Things are getting better now.”

Everyday Miracles on 17th Street. The agencies involved in these success stories are among the 17 located at our remarkable Human Services Center. They pay virtually no rent – only a small stipend towards operating and maintenance costs. The Center takes care of the facilities so they can focus on taking care of clients – a lot of clients, some 11,000 a month. This benefits not only the individuals served but the greater community as well by enhancing the productivity and contributions of so many citizens.

Our goal is for agencies to pay even less – only $1/square foot. That means we have to grow our endowment significantly. A generous board member has underwritten this campaign to enlist your help. Donations in any amount are welcome and deeply appreciated. We welcome you to visit the Center to learn more about how we help the community, and how you can help us. Contact Executive Director Phil King, (941) 365-4545 or pking@gs-humanservices.org.

The Agencies at Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center: AARP WorkSearch • Bay Area Youth Services • Children’s Health Center • Community Center for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing Coastal Behavioral Healthcare • Early Learning Coalition • First Step of Sarasota • Friendship Volunteer Center • Gulfcoast Legal Services • Healthy Start Coalition • Insight Counseling • Jewish Family and Children’s Services • Literacy Council • Man Up of Greater Sarasota • Partnership for Children’s Mental Health • Pierian Spring Academy • Suncoast Partnership to End Homelessness.

Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center • 1750 17th St., Bldg. J Sarasota, FL 34234 • 941-365-4545 www.gs-humanservices.org This communication is graciously underwritten by Sam and Sally Shapiro.

scene | social

View all photos at scenesarasota.com

Glasser/Schoenbaum “Art of Caring” 20th Anniversary Gala

T

he Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center celebrated its 20th anniversary and honored the memory of founder Dr. Kay Glasser Photography by Cliff Roles

with a gala at the Hyatt Regency. Over 400 guests attended “The Art of Caring,” which was a unique collaboration between the arts and human services communities. Carol Green and Michael Pender co-chaired the groundbreaking event. Betty Schoenbaum was honorary chairman and spoke of the importance of the center to the community and of her admiration, appreciation and affection for Dr. Glasser and her work.

Representatives of all 17 agencies located at the “Campus of Caring” welcomed guests, who enjoyed performances by the several of Sarasota’s leading arts organization and an auction of items donated by artists.

Dennis Stover, Cece Glenn & Richard Stanfield

Dick Smothers & Susan Karp

Betty Schoenbaum scenesarasota.com

Carol Krug, Bob & Lee Peterson & Veronica Brady

Joy Weston & Phillip D. King

Dr. Anne Chauvet

Flora Major & Hillary Steele

Lynn & Arthur Guilford with Angela Fain

Sophia Russo, Judith Bell & Sharna Finkelstein

Debbie Dannheisser

Gail Fulton-Ross December 2010

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55

What’s in a

[ In These Cases, Quite A Lot ]

By Sue Cullen

ee their names s u on Yo bu ild in

n, w o t gs all over anthropists? l i ph e s bu t ju the st who are

Beyond a doubt,

Sarasota is blessed with an abundance of amenities

from leading edge medicine to world class facilities for everything from theater to marine life. Stand on just about any corner in town or inside most of Sarasota’s finest institutions, and you will see names of those whose generosity helped make our town a desirable destination for people worldwide and a true treasure for those of us lucky enough to live here.

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These philanthropists — many more than can be named in just one article — shaped Sarasota with gifts not only of their money, but of their vision, time and energy. Some we know well, others not so well, and the same is true of the impact their generosity has had on the institutions they helped and the community at large.

One thing is clear, though, Sarasota would not be the same without them, and these are a few whose names we see during our daily travels.

ELAINE KEATING

ULLA SEARING PHOTO BY CLIFF ROLES

Putting

her

philanthropic dollars to work on a scale that John Ringling would have appreciated, Ulla Searing made

has highly

visible and impactful

con-

tributions to the arts and higher education here. A colossal $6.5 million donation to the Ringling Museum built a spacious wing

Another philanthropic powerhouse is Elaine Keating. From simple

gracefully integrated with the 21-gallery Museum of Art completed

beginnings as the daughter of a Lithuanian immigrant, Keating

by John Ringling in 1931. The Ulla R. and Arthur F. Searing Wing

and her first husband built one of the Midwest’s largest tax-prep-

was completed in 2007 to house special and traveling exhibitions.

aration firms from a single store-front office opened in 1953.

That same year, Searing pledged $2.5 million to endow a cura-

She began visiting Sarasota in 1973 and became a full-time

tor of collections position at the museum, which Florida State

Longboat Key resident in 1979. Here she married the late Ed Ke-

University officials said spring-boarded the museum to a lead-

ating, who amassed his own fortune with the EKCO Housewares

ing position among university museums nationally and poised it

Company. If you chose the easy-clean-up method for this year’s

for growth on an international scale. You’ll also see her name on

Thanksgiving turkey, you can thank the genius of Ed Keating. He

the Ulla Searing Student Center at Ringling College of Art & De-

invented the EZ Foil® disposable aluminum pan.

sign and the Ulla Searing Residence Hall at New College. Her generosity has placed her in the elite ranks as one of only four

Among the couple’s local legacies are Florida Studio Theatre’s

members of the Asolo Repertory Theatre’s Crystal Society for

Keating Theatre, the Keating Center built to house the New Col-

donations exceeding $1 million.

lege Foundation, New College Alumnae/i Association and New College Library Association, and also the Keating Marine Edu-

A native of Sweden, Searing was married to a talented financier for

cation Center at Mote Marine Laboratory. “She and Ed made a

30 years until his death in 1983. They arrived in Sarasota in 1973,

major contribution to that building,” said Dr. Kumar Mahadevan,

initially wintering here and spending summers on Long Island. Upon

Mote’s president. “Thirty thousand kids benefit every year be-

Arthur’s retirement, both indulged their interests in the art and cul-

cause if we hadn’t built that building, we would not have a very

ture of the countries they visited during their travels, which fueled her

strong distance learning program and all the programs we do on

interest in supporting Sarasota’s arts and cultural organizations.

campus. Before, we reached about 500 kids.”

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BEA FRIEDMAN

her generosity to him when he moved to Sarasota 10 years ago.

“I will never forget Bea taking the extra effort to connect us with someone who could help us find a home,” he said. “She took the time to help us get settled in the community.”

Even though she says the orchestra is her “baby,” Friedman’s philanthropy has helped others as well. She funded the Bea Friedman Family Lobby for the Jewish Family and Children’s Service

PHOTO BY CLIFF ROLES

and the office for the director of special events. The latter room For 60-plus years, the

was specifically chosen because Friedman has been the major

Sarasota

Orchestra,

underwriter for JFCS’ signature fundraiser at the Sarasota Or-

including its former in-

chestra for the past five years, according to Andria Bilan, JFCS’

carnation as the Florida

vice president of development.

West Coast Symphony, has been an anchor of the arts scene here, and Bea Friedman has shaped its stature in many ways for

LILLIAN MECKLER

more than 30 years. The symphony had been housed in a build-

Another act of

ing dating to the 1950s, and Friedman stepped forward to fund

generosity,

a new and expanded facility in harmony with the beautiful music

spired by a brush

created within its walls.

with death, re-

in-

sulted in an inA Brooklyn native, Friedman’s husband Allan was stationed in

novative concept

Panama during World War II and arranged for her to join him

with far-reaching

there. When the war ended, she helped with his printing business

consequences.

and eventually they relocated to Chicago where Allan started a

Lillian and the late

business designing and building phototypesetting equipment. He

Herman Meckler

died in 1975. “He had a lot more to do. He was a very industrious

had been Long-

man,” Friedman said. “He left me with a sizeable business.”

boat

Key

resi-

dents since 1992, having relocated there from London and New During their marriage, they began vacationing at the Colony and

York. Herman had a very successful career in business and as an

she came to love Sarasota, eventually moving here full time.

actor and member of the Screen Actors Guild.

“They had an orchestra here, but I put my hand to it and helped it grow,” Friedman said, even opening her home for intimate per-

In 1998, having accidentally left their car running in the garage,

formances. Her piano is signed by the renowned concert pianist

the Mecklers were rushed to Sarasota Memorial Hospital with

André Watts.

near fatal carbon monoxide poisoning. Fortunately for the Mecklers, the hospital had a hyperbaric chamber and both survived.

In addition to the Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center, she endowed the Allan Friedman Chair for the principal cellist, the

Grateful for the care they received, they made a substantial con-

Beatrice Friedman Chair for the principal keyboard and the Allan

tribution establishing a $1 million trust to build the Meckler Ad-

Friedman Memorial Concert, which brings world class pianists

mission Center, known as “the Mac,” which was the first facility of

to Sarasota to solo with the orchestra, says Joe McKenna, the

its kind in the United States and that since has been duplicated

orchestra’s president and CEO. She also endowed the Bea Fried-

by hundreds of other hospitals.

man Room at the Florida Studio Theatre.

“It is a highly specialized unit of 12 beds,” said Alex Quarles, “She’s touched so many lives. There’s not a day goes by at the

president, CEO and trustee of the Sarasota Memorial Hospital

orchestra that we don’t think of her,” McKenna said, also recalling

Foundation. “Thousands of patients have been put through the

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December 2010

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Mac and it was either determined they did not need to be admitted or were put in the appropriate location based on a proper diagnosis. This has been extremely effective for the hospital. It’s better for the health of the patient and allows physicians a different level of access and oversight.”

ANN & ALFRED GOLDSTEIN It would be difficult to write about Sarasota philanthropists without Ann

including

and

Alfred

Goldstein.

Their

generosity

under-

wrote the Therapy and Rehabilitation Center at The Pines of Sarasota along with an outside multi-surfaced Rehabilitation Trail, both named for them. “They are a generous couple and so philanthropic,” said Estelle Crawford, The Pines executive director. “Our community is blessed to have them here.”

The Goldsteins also took the naming opportunity for the Program Wing when JFCS expanded its main campus, Bilan said, and funded a second day of the Senior Outreach Services Program. The Mote Marine Animal Research and Rehabilitation Center also is named for them. “That’s the only reason we can keep dolphins here,” said Mahadevan.

“It allows us to be able to rescue, feed, treat and learn from them.” You also may have seen performances in the Goldstein Cabaret at Florida Studio Theatre.

ESTHER MERTZ If you’ve been in the Mertz Theatre, you can thank Esther Mertz and her late husband, Harold. She was the first of five members of the Asolo’s Crystal Society, which also includes Searing, Lee and Bob Peterson and Beverly Koski. Mertz’s $4 million in gifts were instrumental in completing the building, said Linda DiGabriele, the Asolo’s managing director.

Mertz also has underwritten fellowships for four theater students each year allowing them two years of understudy and a third year as part of the company.

“She is ever present with us, and it’s not just through gifts; it’s also important to know it’s the spirit behind it,” DiGabriele said. “We know she’s in our corner. We value her support because it shows she’s behind us and backs what we do.”

So many philanthropists. So little space to acknowledge them all. But each of us can salute the difference all of them have made in our lives each time we see their names gracing our favorite places. scenesarasota.com

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2010: A Great Year for

GIVING

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

The national media is all aflutter with some truly note-

worthy acts of charity. Thanks to Bill Gates’ and Warren Buffett’s urging, the Giving Pledge campaign has 40 new donors from the Forbes 400 list pledging to leave behind more than $125 billion dollars to good causes. And young Facebook founder and chief executive Mark Zuckerberg recently gave $100 million to the long-troubled public school system of Newark, New Jersey. Just this past October, an anonymous donor left $10,000 in cash in a donation box at the site of soon-to-be-completed 9/11 memorial. All of this, though, seems to run counter to the “duck and cover” ME-ME-ME mentality some would like us to believe of our fellow Americans. The reality is that the philanthropic spirit is real and it’s contagious. scenesarasota.com

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61

“Despite our sluggish economy, people are still giving,” reports Rose Chapman, President of the Jewish Family & Children’s Service of Sarasota-Manatee, Inc. “This generosity is coming from the acknowledgement that ‘Yes, I was hit by the economy, but it could’ve been much worse.’

And thanks to that kind of support, JFCS is able to really focus on

food, and a few little sisters even offered to do face-painting. Thanks

helping people who are most severely affected by the economy.” And

to that kind of networking and support, nearly $2,400 of donations

help they are — last year alone, they provided over 53,000 services to

was collected despite the event falling on a cold, windy day.

nearly 19,000 clients.

The Suitcase Project — After learning that foster children in

Scott Collins, a senior advisor at PNC Wealth Management, assists

Manatee County carry their belongings from home to home in gar-

clients in tailor-making a plan to accomplish their philanthropic

bage bags, thirteen-year-old Jake Weinberger decided to do some-

goals. Collins says “People at all economic levels are looking into

thing. He partnered with the YMCA’s Safe Children Coalition and

their hearts and seeing that the needs of our community, and for that

worked to get 90 new or gently used suitcases or backpacks for those

matter our world, have never been greater. Countless individuals

local foster children. He didn’t get 90 — he got nearly 150. “It’s just

have responded to that need with bold gifts that are truly impactful.

amazing that a thirteen year old can identify with others like that,”

The upside of the need being so great is that it is easy to make a real

says Jake’s father about his son’s commitment to help others.

difference with a contribution at any level. It is very inspirational to see how our community has responded.”

After learning about so many recent acts of charity and giving going on in our community, I, too, got into the spirit. My contribu-

Some people, however, simply aren’t in a position to create a cash-in-

tion? Three things. (1) I sent my kids to Cat Depot, the feline adop-

fused trust or write a big check. But that doesn’t mean there’s no other

tion center on 17th street, and they left bags of food, a few toys, and

way to have a huge positive impact on the lives of others. Here are a

many well-hugged cats behind. (2) My wife dropped off six bags of

few creative ways some locals have chosen to help:

donations to Designing Women Boutique, a 501 (c)(3) organization

The Helping Hand Club — Wanting her children to develop a community-focused commitment to helping others, Sandra VanSuch helped found a children’s charity group, The Helping Hand Club, that meets monthly and allows each member to choose that month’s focus. Her nine-year-old daughter, Sierra, and a number of her classmates and friends, were soon sending military care packages, holding a bake sale to raise money for a no-kill cat shelter in Venice, feeding Habitat for Humanity volunteers breakfast, providing school supplies to local children in need through the Mary Bradley Weeks Education

that has recently given grants to Forty Carrots, YMCA, Girls, Inc., Resurrection House, and Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe. (3) As an international speaker on video game addiction, social networking, and cyberbullying, the honorariums I’m given are often generous. I recently chose to give a free presentation to a group of social workers in Nevada, and the response was so positive that I’m going to give another free presentation next year at a behavioral therapists’ conference next year. What better way to help than to work with those who directly help others?

Foundation, and helping pick over 1700 lbs. of oranges for All Faiths

None of these things really cost me all that much, but the lives that

Food Banks. The group’s motto: Lend a helping hand wherever there’s

are impacted by my actions number in the hundreds. That’s the kind

a need — across the street or around the world, we follow every lead.

of thing that can make our city great and help get America back on

Hang Out for Haiti — After hearing about the devastation in Haiti caused by earthquakes, the twin twelve-year-old Hanan girls, Sydney and Samantha, along with the help of a friend, organized a picnic at Siesta Key Beach. Stacy Hanan, their mother, said “The girls

track. If you see an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others, take it. A choice like that is one you’ll never regret. As the French novelist Albert Camus said, “Real generosity toward the future lies in giving all to the present.”

got a Facebook page going, and they texted their friends, sent emails, and posted fliers about the event.” Many attendees offered to bring

62

scene |

December 2010

Ryan G. Van Cleave / ryangvancleave.com scenesarasota.com

scene | social

View all photos at scenesarasota.com

Sarasota Opera Curtain Raiser Dinner S arasota Opera and 100 excited guests raised the

Photography by Rob Villetto

curtain on its 52nd season at the annual Curtain

Raiser dinner held at Michael’s On East. Opera patrons mingled as they munched on sumptuous hors d’oeuvres, before they settled down to a performance by Sarasota Opera’s Studio Artists, followed by an auction of exciting, one-of-kind experiences and an elegant dinner.

The 2010 Winter Opera Festival runs from February 1 through March 22.

Victor DeRenzi & Syble Di Girolamo

Scott Anderson & Victoria Leopold

Carol English, Alma Abshier & Janet Huelster

Ulla Searing & Michael Shelton Susan Danis & Beverly Koski Tom & Barbara Donohue with Stephanie Sundine

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December 2010

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63

from an interview Philanthropist

Gerri Aaron

by Gus Mollasis

She was born in Philadelphia, a city kid, who yearned for a day of fresh air in the country to take in nature and just play outside. Today, many years later, she takes in the beauty that surrounds her with the eyes and wonderment of a child, while continuing a full life of living and giving to the arts and to her community. She is a giver with a capital G, and it’s easier to name the causes she’s not involved with than the ones she is.

Because she’s opened her very big heart to Sarasota, we can all breathe a little easier. Recently I sat down with Gerri Aaron and we took a look at some of the scenes from an interview of her life.

Where were you born?

12 and 18. It was the best time of my life.

I was born in Philadelphia, and I still maintain a residence there.

A lot of my family is still up there.

How did you find Sarasota?

I came down here with my husband in the early 1970s while he

What was your childhood like?

was on business. And I remember telling him when we retire, this

I had an interesting childhood. I had marvelous parents. My fa-

is it. This is where I want to be. So I always knew that I loved Sara-

ther and I were extremely close. He was a very unusual man – a

sota. I consider my self a Sarasotan. Sarasota is my home.

brilliant lawyer and a musician who was a charming intellectual and a very funny man. My mother was a good mother. She was

What was it about Sarasota that so attracted you?

a good person, but my relationship with my father was closer. I

I loved the area. The big buildings weren’t here. There was no

had a sister who was three years younger, but we were not very

such thing as condos. Longboat Key was very lonely and re-

close growing up. We became closer as we both got married and

mote. In terms of the distance, it just seemed far from Sarasota.

became interested in our families.

I loved little Sarasota, which was a tiny low key place. I loved the feeling down here, the complexion and the beauty of it. I wasn’t

Describe your perfect day as a child?

I went to summer camp in the mountains, in the Poconos at

interested in anything but having fun then. I played tennis, and went to the Asolo Repertory Theatre every night.

Camp Lindenmare. I loved getting away from home and being at summer camp. I really expressed myself generously and explic-

64

Define a Giver?

itly in sports and in friendship and developed into somewhat of

A giver is somebody who has the feeling of doing something that

leader at summer camp. I attended camp between the ages of

benefits others – philanthropy. When people ask me what I do, I say

scene |

December 2010

scenesarasota.com

besides being retired, I’m a philanthropist. And that’s what I love

was creating and had a vision that they were creating a new in-

doing. I feel it’s very important to give back to the community.

dustry, which of course is what they did. He was a businessman, not an engineer. It was a fabulous beginning and a little scary,

Were you always such a giver?

because it was so new. Nobody knew what he did. All my neigh-

I was always very interested in what was going on in the world and

bors said to me, “What does your husband do? What is cable

in my community, and I was always involved in something. I had a

TV?” And they came here (Sarasota) early on to bring cable TV.

big family after I was married, and not a lot of money. So I didn’t give

They put up a big antenna where Comcast is today, which was a

a lot of money. I was involved with the elementary school. I read to

pig farm. I believe that Sarasota was one of the first communities

the kids, took them to the library. I was active in my politics and in

that insisted that the cable be put underground.

my community. I am a liberal. I was active in liberal activities.

How did you meet and how did you know he was the one?

What do the arts mean to you?

We met in college at Temple University. We were in a class to-

They are terribly important to our culture. I think it’s very important

gether and met through a friend. We had an economics course

for children to understand art. It’s all around us and that’s how it

together that I got through by reading his notes. I felt sorry for him

becomes part of the community and the environment. You have

because he was an orphan and he lived in a ratty home that he

to see what is outside. Children don’t go outside as much as they

rented near the University in a very difficult part of the city. I invited

used to, so they don’t see the trees, they don’t see the animals,

him to come to dinner at my house, and I made a terrible din-

the bugs. Not that I’m a scientist, I’m certainly not. But I always

ner, burned the chicken, ruined the string beans, I did everything

loved seeing what is around me. Reading was very important. My

wrong but he liked having a home cooked meal. (Laughing) We

father read to me when I was very young and inspired my love of

just liked each other so it was easy. We were married for 50 years

reading. Books were very important. Art became very important

and he died seven years ago.

and I dabbled in art myself. I painted. I danced.

Do you watch a lot of TV? What does winning the Nancy Roucher Annual Arts Education

I watch a moderate amount of TV in the evening when I’m home.

Award mean to you?

I’m not home that much. My husband didn’t watch that much.

I was on the Sarasota County Arts Council for many years. A big interest of mine was keeping arts in education. We had a struggle

Do we watch too much TV and have too much technology in

with it when I was first on the board, because there was a lack

our daily lives?

of money as there still is today. I helped them get the arts back

I feel that young people should get outside, instead of text-mes-

in the schools. That was my interest – arts and education. And

saging, being on the computer, or watching TV all the time. It

Nancy Roucher and I were friends, she was on the board. They

upsets me to see my grandchildren so devoted to text-messag-

have a principal’s luncheon, where the principals talk about what

ing little messages such as, “Where are you?”, and “What are you

they are doing in their schools to interest their kids in the arts

doing?” I tell them why can’t you just visit and go out for a walk

and I love it.

and talk to your friends. They don’t do that. For my kids I used to open the door and they would just go outside and play all the

Sum up the importance of Planned Parenthood, another organi-

time. And it was cold up north, but they were outside.

zation you support, to the community and to society in general?

Planned Parenthood brings health care and health education to

Tell me about the Tree Foundation?

all people, in particular to young people so that they can plan

Professor Meg Lowman of New College got me interested in this

their lives and their family considerations. It’s a healthcare agency

and is one of my mentors. She started the Tree Foundation about

and the people that go there have to pay some money, but it’s

ten years ago and asked me join the board. She was encourag-

not as expensive as some private physicians would be. People

ing her New College students to go to middle schools and take

get a lot of understanding on how they can take care of them-

the kids to Myakka State Park for tours. The Tree Foundation built

selves and how they can plan their lives.

a canapé, a little house in the trees, very charming, and thousands of kids go there and walk up through this little canapé. I’ve

Your husband was the one of the founders of Comcast. Define

done it dozens of times with her as she tries to interest people in

that accomplishment in your eyes?

the Tree Foundation. And I’ve gone up with my own grandchil-

He was one of the founders and at the time it was just a job. He scenesarasota.com

dren, and it’s just wonderful. Being with Professor Lowman is an December 2010

| scene

65

education. She is so smart and knows so much about field biology. I’ve gone with her to the Amazon, Machu Picchu, Ecuador, Belize, just following her footsteps. She’s encourages others to be interested in ecology. The Tree Foundation is bringing in more people and interest and we are currently seeking money to build something into the trees. Ideally children will be able to climb up into the canapé, where they can look all around them and take in nature. We’re hoping the tree could house one to two dozen children at a time. The whole point is getting them out and into the country.

Meg Lowman has a mantra, “No child left indoors.”

Did you climb trees as child?

I knew how, but I lived in the city, we roller skated and played ball. I was a tomboy.

It’s important to give because....

You have to love helping other people, by either giving or volunteering your time to help the community where you live and beyond where you live.

What are the keys to living a fulfilling life?

I feel am fulfilled because I am close to my family. I love the community I live in up north and down here. I love being able to do what I can do to help all the organizations that I am involved with in this wonderful community.

How do you want to be remembered?

I plan on living a long time so if I will be remembered, it will be by my family and any friends I have left. I’d like to be remembered for the many things that I’ve done. Not so much for the money, but for the help that I have given.

66

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December 2010

Keeping A

PHILANTHROPIC Spirit

!

Budget On A

I

to be sold in their downtown store, ������������������������������

According to Jim Shirley, executive director for the Sarasota Arts Council, “Arts ���� ��������� �������������� ����������� the nation are being affected by cutbacks in funding more than any other time in our history and Sarasota’s no ����������� ���� ��������� ����� ���� ��������� �������������� ��� ��������� �������� ��� ��� ���� ����� �������� ��������� ��� ���� county, which is why it is critical that we ���� ����� ����������� ���� ������ ���� ���� ����� affects the quality of our lives, it also has �� ����������� ������� ��� ���� ���������

����� ���� ������� ���� �������� ��������� has given more than $7 million in grants and scholarships to support the arts in ��������� �������� ���� ���������� �� � ��dividuals who volunteer, donate, consign ���� ����� ���� �������� ��������� ����� ��������������

n spite of current economic conditions, when many of us are fac���� ��������� ��������� ������������ ��������� �������������� ��������� ��� ����� ��������� ���� ���������� ������ ����� ����� ��� ���������� ��������������� ��� comes as no surprise that many of these ����������������������������������������� good for our community are facing hardtimes of their own due to dwindling support from individual contributors, �������������������������������������������

���� ����� ����� ��� ����� ���� ��������� Exchange can help keep that philanthropic spirit alive by enabling individuals like you to turn your unwanted items into a cash donation made out to one or more �� � ���� ����� ����������� �������������� ��� ��������� �������� ����� �� � ����� ���� ������ �������������� ����� ����� ������� ��� ��� ����� All that’s required is that you consign under the number of the charity of your ����������������������������������������� of the proceeds will be mailed to that particular charity in the form of a check, and the remaining amount will go to sup����������������������������������������� � ��������� ��� �������� ��� ����� ���������� ����� ������ �������� ���������� ��������� ���� ���� �� � ���� �������� ���������� ������ ��� ��cellent opportunity for people from all walks of life to give back to their community, making it a better place ���� ���� �� � ��� ��� ������ ����� ����� �������� form of recycling but with a cash re����� ���� ���� �������� �� � ����� �������� ���� �������� ��������� ��� �� ��������� ����������������������������������������� support and enrich a variety of programs ���� ������ ��������� �������������� ���������� ����� ���� ������ ������ ���� ����� �������� ���� ��������� �������� �� ������������ ��eration in which merchandise is accepted either as a donation or for consignment ����������������������������������������

���������������������������������������� Exchange has grown from a small one ����������������������������������������� ����������������������������������������� ��������� ������ ��� ���� ����� ����� � ������� ���� ����������� ���������� ����� ��������� ��������������������������������������������� incrusted with diamonds, Gucci, Prada, Chico’s, high-end furniture and beautiful handmade rugs in addition to everyday ����������������

Past grants and scholarships have been awarded to area high school and college ���������������������������������������� ������ ���� ��������� ������ ��������� ���� ������� ���������� ������� �������� ��������� �������� ������� ��������� ����� ������������������������������������������� ������ ���������� ��������� ��������� ����������� ��������� ����� ����������� �������������������������������������������� the Hermitage Artist Retreat to name a ����� If you or someone you know are interested in applying for a grant or scholar������ ������� ������ ������������������� ���� ���� ���� ���� ��� ������������ �������� ������������������������������������� �������������������������������������change for yourself and you’ll quickly fall in love with all that it offers and repre�������� P.S.� ����� ����� ����� ����� ����������� ��� ����������������������������

538 S. ORANGE AVE. 941-955-7859 OPEN MON-FRI 9-4 & SAT. 10-4 FIRST FRIDAYS TIL 9PM scenesarasota.com

Perlman Music Program Students Return for Two Weeks Enjoy 36 exceptionally gifted international music students performing daily free events under the direction of Itzhak Perlman Save the dates for the seventh annual return of The Perlman Music Program Sarasota Winter Residency, presented by The Perlman Music Program/Suncoast, December 28, 2010, through January 8, 2011. This exciting two-week program was founded by Toby Perlman, wife of acclaimed concert violinist and conductor Itzhak Perlman. It offers unparalleled musical training for students, ages 12 to 20+, who come from around the world to study and play violin, viola, cello, and bass. With a faculty led by Mr. Perlman and comprising some of the most gifted musical talents of our time, the Sarasota Winter Residency offers an artistic and personal experience that changes students’ lives forever.

“This is a rich opportunity for people to witness the creative pro-

The program culminates with the “Celebration Concert” at the

cess at work,” says Elizabeth Power, executive director of PMP/

Sarasota Opera House, January 8, 2011. Tickets for the concert

Suncoast. “It’s fascinating to experience the exchange of ideas,

are $35, $55 and $75, and can be reserved at Sarasota Opera

techniques and sensibilities—and to watch these gifted mentors

House’s box office at 941-366-8450, Ext 1. The “Perlman and

inspire a depth of intellectual curiosity that will sustain these stu-

Pearls” gala, immediately following the concert, is a wonderful

dents well into their professional careers. It’s a remarkable artistic

way to celebrate the culmination of this inspired program with the

and educational experience for audience members.”

Perlmans, their faculty, students, and PMP/Suncoast sponsors

The Sarasota Winter Residency’s public events include orchestra and chorus rehearsals, master classes, and works-in-prog-

and patrons. For information about sponsorship and the Perlman and Pearls gala, please call 941-350-2338.

ress student recitals, which attract more than 13,000 people

PMP/Suncoast presents the Sarasota Winter Residency as only

each year. Q&A sessions with the Perlmans and PMP students

one part of a year-round program. This October, as part of PMP/

and faculty follow many of these events. These free events take

Suncoast’s Education Outreach Program, members of the cel-

place in a heated outdoor performance tent on the grounds of

ebrated Vinca Quartet visited 12 area schools, interacting with

the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus. Tickets for the free events

nearly 900 students in classroom settings and performing for

can be picked up in-person at the USF Sarasota-Manatee Ro-

1,500 students and teachers in school performances. The four

tunda (December 1-11: M-F 10-2; Sat 10-4) or accessed online

members of the Vinca Quartet, PMP alumni and gifted perform-

at www.PerlmanMusicProgramSuncoast.org. While tickets are

ing and teaching artists, presented interactive performances and

available on a first-come basis, “no one has been turned away

hands-on training for area music students and their teachers. The

yet!” says Power. “So, if you make a last-minute decision to ex-

group will return in early January for the third and final week of

perience this program, regardless of ticketing, come and we’ll

this three-week, in-school residency program sponsored and en-

do our best to seat you!”

tirely funded by PMP/Suncoast.

For more information about The Perlman Music Program/Suncoast, visit www.PerlmanMusicProgramSuncoast.org or call 941-955-4942.

SOUTHSIDE VILL AGE SHOPPING

Just minutes from Downtown Sarasota,

SOUTHSIDE VILLAGE is a hip area of Sarasota

that youʼll want to explore.

Located on South Osprey Avenue between Hyde Park and Hillview, the Village is a mecca of great food, trendy shops, salons and spas. Enjoy!

��������� �������� ��������������������

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SOUTHSIDE VILL AGE SHOPPING

scene | social

View all photos at scenesarasota.com

Children First Flip Flops & Fashion Luncheon

U

nder an elegant tent, at Sharky’s on the Pier, over 350 guests enjoyed a fabulous afternoon of Florida cuisine

and beautiful fashions at the 3rd annual Flip Flops and Fashion Luncheon. The proceeds from the event, which was hosted by Children First, will help to sustain the high quality programs that they offer to over 600 children and families at their 12 locations in our community. Children First was recently designated as one of top 22 Programs of Excellence in the country, out of

Photography by Carissa Warfield

2,700 similar programs.

Sandy Wilson & Tammy Karp

Karen Roberts & Michelle Hazeltine

Renee Phinney, Jo Rutstein & Carol Noah-Banach

Jackie Rolfes & Denise Barker scenesarasota.com

Angie Stringer & Jamie Becker

Danielle Nutten & Sharon Petrik December 2010

| scene

69

St. Armands Circle

Columbia Restaurant’s Roast

Pork “A La Cubana”

World Class Dining



World Class Destination

By Susan Cullen

How lucky are we to have our very own world-renowned shopping district? The vibe year-round on St. Armands Key is festive with the

anticipation of scoring a great glam addition to the wardrobe or dining on a delicious dish. Festooned with lights, the circle takes on a magical glow during the holidays that is just perfect for viewing from one of the many fine restaurants – old and new – that make St. Armands Circle a world class destination.

70

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December 2010

scenesarasota.com

While the dining landscape is continuing to change, stalwarts

A sleek, sophisticated dining area of red and black downstairs

like Café L’Europe, Columbia and Tommy Bahama provide

and a lounge upstairs with balcony overlooking the circle and

consistently good fare with added spice from a bevy of

comfortable upholstered living-room-style seating are conducive

newcomers. Once such scene brightener is Tango Steakhouse

to socializing. Tango also offers a selection of entertainment from

& Sushi Bar whose menu, let alone its name, has to be the

dancers to live music and even NFL games.

epitome of fusion.

Another newcomer, Café Galante, offers an above-the-crowd Mirroring owner Sandra Miccio’s heritage, the restaurant

view as well from its location atop Cha Cha Coconuts. Still

happily melds a wide range of cuisines. Miccio was born in

in its first year, the restaurant also has a fusion menu. “Our

Argentina of Italian parents and is the third generation of her

menu is authentic Mediterranean with an emphasis on Middle

family in the restaurant business. She opened Tango six months

Eastern, classic American and a touch of Italian,” says Dee Dee

ago to serve up the kind of sumptuous meats expected of an

Khayyata, who owns Café Galante with her husband, Faez.

Argentinian steakhouse amiably alongside chicken Marsala and house-made lobster ravioli. The menu is rounded out

Appetizers definitely lean to the Middle East with earthy stuffed

by crispy duck, lamb and a selection of seafood dishes like

grape leaves, baba ghannouj and a tabouleh salad of bulgur

a medley of shrimp and scallops whose silky perfection is

wheat. While Khayyata says everything on the menu is popular,

enhanced with a light citrus wine sauce.

the shawarma with beef or chicken are house specialties. The meat is redolent with Lebanese spices and topped with fresh

But do not miss the sushi from the ample menu. Signature rolls

tomato and green onion. She also highlights seafood dishes

include a garlic roll of fresh-from-the-sea tuna and avocado

prepared lightly, such as grouper sautéed with white wine,

with a flash of flavor from garlic aioli and “super crunched” with

lemon juice and olive oil or similarly-prepared sea bass that

toasted panko crumbs coating the rice. Yummy!

also is scented with rosemary. Both dishes are served with a

Café Gabbiano Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar

Owners Peter & Susan Migliaccio “A total first class dining experience all the way around. I would consider flying down from Ohio just to dine at Gabbiano’s again.”

Fine Italian Cuisine

-Warren, OH

Over 500 wines from around the world

5104 Ocean Boulevard | Siesta Key | 941-349-1423 Closed Sundays until October

scenesarasota.com

December 2010

| scene

71

WHERE RESTAURANTS GO TO SHOP

Popi’s Place  Catering 

Award Winning Caterer for St. Barbara’s Greek Orthodox Glendi Festival

all occasions | all event sizes | greek/american banquet facilities available | 4 convenient locations

Call 941-722-9055 or visit popisplace.com

foxrestaurantequipment.com Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm, Saturday 10:30-2pm

www.tangosteakandsushi.com

St. Armands Hottest New Restaurant Open daily 11:30 am - 10 pm

Tango Sports Bar 2nd Floor

72

oooo...mmmm...yummm

Now Open Weekends • Large Groups/Private Parties Live Entertainment • NFL Sunday Ticket

Featuring “The Best Falafel in Sarasota”

326 John Ringling Blvd | St. Armands Circle | 941-554-4916

Now Open: Mon-Wed 11am-12pm, Thurs-Sat 11am-2am

scene |

December 2010

1454 Main Street, Sarasota | 941.556.9323 scenesarasota.com

dreamy spinach and cheese risotto.

With season approaching, the always elegant Café L’Europe is keeping

COME ABOARD THE MARINA JACK II

menu favorites like Dover sole, but freshening its classic dishes with seasonal items and menu selections, according to Terri Herlihy, catering

�������� �������� ������� �� �������� ���������� �������� �����

director. For a special holiday meal, Herlihy

recommends

diners

try

brandied duck, which is roasted

SARASOTA, FL

crisp with oranges and graced with a Bing cherry cognac sauce.

Known for its tableside preparation, Café L’Europe’s shrimp Pernod with meaty prawns and the sweet yet herbaceous anise-flavored Pernod sharpen the appetite for a sumptuous Chateaubriand—for two, of course.

Seasonal libations tend towards

RESERVATIONS (941) 365-4232

www.marinajacks.com

pomegranate, Herlihy says, adding that pear martinis and champagne are perennial favorites.

The restaurant also is offering full service catering for cocktail parties, corporate lunches or dinners and three-course holiday deliveries.

If you are ready to relax and party, Tommy Bahama brings its own island-style to the holidays with a series of specialty libations. “We will have some great drinks that will remind you of a great holiday meal like our Tommy Bahama Frost Bite,” says Thai Branton, general manger. Made with rum, Cointreau, Chambord and sour mix, the festive drink is perfect for sipping while viewing the action from the restaurant’s second floor balcony.

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True Mixed Media

Trendy flavors include interesting ingredients like the pineapple yuzu mohito made with the juice of a tart Japanese citrus, he says, and the new cocktail menu will include drinks made with spicy Grey Goose

They paint with sauces; they

Poire and the delicate St. Germain

sculpt with cheese…their

liquor made from elderflowers. Pair them with the Cabo fish tacos or the

canvas, a gently warmed plate.

Tobago pork tenderloin, reminiscent of the holidays. The pork is “brined

At Café Baci, we call these

in maple syrup and fennel and then

artisans “Chefs” and feature

served

their masterpieces daily.

with

dried

cherry-Merlot

chutney,” Branton says.

The Columbia Restaurant is getting into the seasonal spirit also—stone crab season, that is. Lucky us, the St. Armands location is the only one Authentically Fresh. Authentically Italian.

4001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota • 921-4848 • www.CafeBaci.net

that will be serving the delicious delicacies.

As

for

the

holiday

season, who can resist a break in the shopping action to sip sangria and watch the crowd go by from its expansive sidewalk seating?

Columbia is planning a traditional Cuban Christmas Eve menu including crab empanadas, black bean soup, marinated roast pork a la Cubana and a rich crema Catalana for dessert, says Angela Geml, marketing and public relations manager. “Christmas Eve, or Noche Buena, was the most important family night of the year in Ybor City,” Geml said. “Homes were filled with both familiar aromas and familiar laughter of loved ones gathering together.”

����������������������������������������

‘Tis the season — so gather your

������������������������������

own loved ones and make plans for

��������������������������l ����������������l ���������������

greater holiday memories.

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December 2010

some great holiday dining and even

scenesarasota.com

having great taste profiles. The Segura has nice balanced acidity and strong body, with flavors of pineapple, almonds, honey and straw. The Mionetto Prosecco is an organic grape that is a bit lighter style than the Segura but equally delicious with nice flavors of golden apple. You can also stop by the bar and have a Primo Prosecco , a mixture of St-Germain Elderfower Liqueur and Mionetto Prosecco, a refreshing

FLEMINGS FABULOUS FARE

champagne cocktail. If you are hosting a holiday party this year try this twist on the Champange cocktail. It is called the Pionsettia Cocktail; in a champagne glass add ½ oz. Cointreau 3 oz. of cranberry then top with champagne, your guests

Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

will love it. If you are planning a holiday

From James Shea’s Wine Room

in and see me at Flemings and we can

Champagne

sample some Champagne.

and

the

holidays

are

party this season and are unsure of what to serve for champagne feel free to stop

synonymous together just like peanut butter and jelly and we can all thank

From Chef Charlie Flint’s Kitchen:

Dom Perignon for that, although he was

The holidays are here and that means

not the first to produce Champagne

friends, family and tons of entertaining. I

he was instrumental in perfecting the

love to visit and cook however; sometimes

Champagne method and is one of most

it’s hard to get the two things done at

recognizable names in the industry.

the same time. Usually we’ll go with the

Champagne

three

old favorite a beautiful prime rib of beef.

grape varietals, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir

Seasoned with a bit of fresh thyme and

and Pinot Meunier. In order to be called

studded with chopped garlic, is the

Champagne the grapes must be grown

perfect holiday feast.

is

comprised

of

and produced in the Champagne region in France. Sparkling wines are produced

I like to choose a rib between 13 and

all over the world, in Spain it is called Cava

15 pounds trim down the front fat cap

and in Italy it is referred to as spumante.

just a bit and make a mixture of ½ cup kosher salt, ¼ cup chopped fresh garlic,

So that the holidays are upon us most of

¼ cup cracked black pepper and ¼ cup

us will be invited to a party, I cannot think

chopped fresh thyme. Roast in a 250

of a better gift to bring than a bottle of

degree oven for 2 ½ to 3 hours or to an

Champagne. Always keep in mind that

internal temperature of 130 degrees then

Champagne does not have to be expensive

place on a carving board and allow to rest

to taste great. This year on the Fleming’s

for ½ hour before slicing. Serve with your

100 we have two great new additions;

favorite au jus or horseradish cream and

the Segura-Viudas Cava from Spain and

enjoy your holidays.

the Italian Mionetto Prosecco. Both are under twelve dollars a glass and are great

Have a safe and Happy Holiday Season!

examples of inexpensive sparkling wines

flemingssteakhouse.com/sarasota

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Center for Sight Clearly Seeing the Importance of Giving Cultivating a philanthropic organization is more than just making donations to worthy causes, it is a culture of caring that starts at the top and invites involvement from everyone.

Center for Sight founder and director of cataract and lens replacement surgery David W. Shoemaker, MD, sets the tone for his organization by his own involvement with Sarasota Rowing, the Ringling Museum of Art, Manatee Community College, and the Asolo Repertory Theatre. To promote broad community involvement by the staff, the center provides employees with an annual allowance to con-

treat cataracts for those who have no means

tribute to the cause of their choice.

to pay, according to Frances Wilhelm, marketing director, Center for Sight. “Our belief

“At Center For Sight, we are committed to

is that everyone should be able to live life

Bringing Clear Vision To Life. Our staff and

without suffering from treatable vision loss,”

physicians are dedicated to making a differ-

Wilhelm said. Surgical removal of blinding

ence for our patients and the communities

cataracts allows the individuals to resume

in which they live,” says Dr. Shoemaker.

the activities of their everyday lives.

What sets the center apart is the use it

Promoting volunteerism among staff also

makes of the skills of its physicians with

has led to ongoing participation and sup-

specialties in eye care, cataract surgery,

port of Lighthouse of Manasota, as well as

facial cosmetic surgery, dermatology, and

unique events like Look Good/Do Good,

hearing services.

which kicked off this year’s Wine, Women and Shoes event. Dr. John Fezza graciously

Center For Sight physicians donate their time

donated his time to perform cosmetic fa-

and talents in creative ways to help achieve

cial procedures with 100 percent of the net

the center’s two-pronged philanthropic mis-

proceeds donated to Forty Carrots Family

sion to support education and fulfill its motto

Center. Center For Sight was the presenting

“Bringing Clear Vision to Life.”

sponsor for Wine, Women and Shoes 2010.

For the past 10 years, the center has sup-

The center also sponsored the Doctor Idol

ported Mission Cataract USA, setting aside

competition that pitted musically-inclined

one day a year for its ophthalmologists to

physicians and their bands against each other, but in support of a worthwhile effort to provide free eye exams and glasses for children through the nonprofit Florida Vision Quest.

�������������������������

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FASTER SMILES

FOLLOWING TOOTH LOSS

By Craig M. Misch, DDS, MDS, PA

Implant tooth replacement has been available for approxi-

Although these advances in implant treatment can help many

mately forty years. Titanium implants act as artificial roots to

patients, there are times when the standard protocols are

support the replacement teeth. The original technique in-

necessary to achieve the best result. If the jaw bone has de-

volved inserting the implant into the jaw and then allowing

teriorated around a diseased tooth (due to infection or gum

it to heal under the gum for three to six months. A second

disease), it may be necessary to first perform a bone graft.

surgical procedure was needed to expose the implant after it

This repairs the bone and provides more stable anchorage

anchored in the bone to add the post (abutment). The entire

for the future implant. Sometimes the patient’s bone is too

procedure took several months and sometimes over a year

soft for accelerated treatment and longer time periods are

to complete.

needed for bone growth. There are patients that do not have enough bone to place implants. In this instance, a bone graft

In the past twenty-five years that I have practiced implant

is used to build up the jaw for future implant placement.

dentistry, there have been many exciting developments. The results are very predictable and it has become the preferred

So, regardless of what new technology becomes available,

way to replace missing and failing teeth.

the emphasis needs to be on achieving a predictable and long lasting outcome. If it takes a little longer to get the best

More recently research has focused on shortening treat-

result, the wait is well worth it.

ment. Instead of a three to six month healing process, newer implants have been designed to heal in as short as

As a well known authority in the field of implant dentistry, I

six weeks. In many cases, a tooth can be extracted for im-

consult for many bone graft and implant companies. I also

mediate implant insertion. If the implant is stable, a tem-

conduct research on new technologies for jaw bone growth

porary tooth can be made for cosmetic replacement. This

and lecture across the country to other specialists on the

avoids the need to use removable temporary teeth during

latest advances in dental implant procedures.

healing. In cases where all the natural teeth will be lost (due to severe decay or gum disease), we can often remove the

It is important to seek an experienced, board certified sur-

teeth and insert implants to support temporary fixed (non-

geon to ensure you are making the right choices regarding

removable) bridges. This is often preferred to the old ap-

your treatment. A consultation visit will determine if you are a

proach of having the patient wear a removable denture for

candidate for this exciting approach to tooth replacement.

several months during healing. Three-dimensional x-rays of the jaws are the latest way to diagnose patients and plan their treatment using computer software.

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December 2010

Dr. Craig Misch practices at Misch Implant Dentistry, 120 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota. 941.957.6444/ www.drmisch.com.

scenesarasota.com

PRP INJECTIONS &

TENNIS ELBOW: WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL?

By Dr. Christopher R. Sforzo

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections have gotten an incred-

many of us; especially after other, more common treat-

ible amount of publicity lately, not only in the lay press (re:

ments fail, such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatories,

Tiger Woods) but also in the orthopedic surgery literature.

ice, rest, and cortisone injections.

PRP is simply a portion of your own blood, which has

The benefits of PRP are that it is non-surgical; there are

been spun in a centrifuge to separate the heavier cells

no risks of disease transmission as it is from the patient’s

from the lighter plasma. This plasma portion has a higher

own blood; the time away from sports in less than with

concentration of biologic factors, including special growth

surgery, and the risks, if any, are extremely low, and much

factors and cytokines. These factors, in conjunction with

less than surgery.

others, help stimulate cells that promote tissue healing, collagen production, and new blood vessel formation.

The injection protocol differs from doctor to doctor, but

Several recent studies in animal models and patients indi-

typically about 20 cc of the patient’s blood is drawn. This

cate that the use of PRP improves tendon healing.

is then spun for about 15 minutes and then the PRP is separated from the red blood cells via special syringes

PRP is currently being used as a treatment for chronic

before it is injected directly into the diseased area. There

tendon conditions such as tennis / golfer’s elbow and

is pain with the injection, so I typically perform them under

Achilles tendinopathy, and being studied on rotator cuff

light anesthesia. There is also pain after the injections, so

tears. Some are even using PRP to treat or attempt to

a combination of rest, ice, and sometimes a light oral nar-

quicken the natural healing process in acute injuries such

cotic is needed. No anti-inflammatories should be used

as muscle strains and ankle sprains.

1 week prior to and 2-4 weeks after the injections. The number of injections varies, with a common number be-

There is limited data on the effectiveness of PRP in the

tween 1 and 3 per site. Gentle use and stretching is en-

above conditions. At this time, there are no specialized

couraged initially, with gradual return to sport about 4-6

orthopedic-journal quality studies showing that PRP

weeks after the last injection.

works better than any other treatment for chronic or acute injuries.

I am currently using PRP for chronic lateral and medial epicondylitis (tennis and golfer’s elbow) in patients who

The specific mechanisms on how PRP actually works are

have failed several months of other treatments, including

not known. There are also many factors that go into this

cortisone.

treatment that need to be further researched to find out how we can make every PRP injection the same, which

Dr. Christopher R. Sforzo treats all orthopaedic problems

as of now, they are not.

and is a surgeon, fellowship-trained in hand and upper extremity surgery. He practices at The Orthopaedic Cen-

My feeling is that PRP is a good alternative treatment

ter of Southwest Florida, 5831 Bee Ridge Rd., Ste. 200,

for chronic tendon problems that are very frustrating for

Sarasota. www.orthocenterflorida.com / 941.378.5100

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December 2010

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79

WHAT SHOULD I DO ABOUT MY HERNIA?

By Jonathan Yunis, MD, FACS

So what is a hernia ?

as a patch of the abdominal wall. Each type of hernia may

A hernia is a defect in a structure that allows something to

demand a special mesh chosen from several on the mar-

pass through it. In the case of a hernia of the abdominal

ket. The materials range from polypropylene to Dacron to

wall, the “something” is often the intestine. The protrusion

Gore-Tex. A new class of “biological mesh” from pigs and

of intestine or even internal fat can cause significant pain

cows is finding a place in the management of hernias in

and in some cases a surgical emergency.

the face of infection.

The most common hernias occur in the groin (inguinal

Hernias can be approached surgically with a knife from

hernia) and in the belly button (umbilical hernia). Many oc-

the outside of the hernia (open repair) and laparoscopi-

cur in areas of previous surgical incisions (ventral hernias)

cally though 12 mm and 5 mm incisions. A telescopic

in the abdominal wall.

lenses attached to a high definition video camera allows for a more precise surgical procedure. The laparoscopic

If it doesn’t hurt, should it be repaired?

technique is usually associated with less pain, less risk

The natural history of a hernia left untreated is unpredict-

of infection, and earlier return to work and sports. Most

able. Many people tolerate it without pain or emergency

will return to work within one week and play golf in 10

for a lifetime. Many will suffer great pain and demand re-

days. Open repairs certainly have their place and are of-

pair. Some will present to the emergency room with incar-

ten advantageous for improved cosmetic outcomes and

ceration (intestines trapped in the hernia) and strangula-

abdominal wall contour. Open repair of inguinal hernias

tion (compromised blood flow to the trapped intestine) of

may allow for the avoidance of general anesthesia, which

the hernia.

may be important for those with other risk factors.

The decision for repair is best left to your physician and

Hernias may present in many different ways. In some

may be influenced by your age, medical condition and

people, watchful waiting may be best. Most will benefit

characteristics of your hernia. Certainly, the risk of your re-

from a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach and

pair should be lower than your risk of leaving it untreated.

return home the same day. The appropriate repair for a select few may be a complex open reconstruction of the

How should my hernia be fixed?

abdominal wall with hospitalization for up to a week.

For any given hernia, there are several options for repair. The decision for different techniques is best made by someone

No matter what type of hernia you have, a customized

who has experience in all of them. The type of hernia repair

approach is best.

should be customized for each patient. Advanced age and other comorbid conditions influence these choices.

Dr. Jonathan Yunis practices at Center for Hernia Repair, 1921 Waldemere St., Ste. 504, Sarasota. 941.953.5917/

Most hernia repairs utilize a mesh material which functions

80

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December 2010

www.centerforherniarepair.com

scenesarasota.com

ENVISION TOMORROW’S

PAT I E N T C A R E

|

MEDICAL

RESEARCH

|

EDUCATION,

E D U C AT I O N

|

TECHNOLOGY

941.917.1286 | SMHF.ORG

T O D AY.

|

FA C I L I T I E S

A NEW MUSIC AL

MADE IN AMERICA

book by Ivan Menchell music by Frank Wildhorn lyrics by Don Black

NOVEMBER 16–DECEMBER 19

10–11 SEASON BONNIE & CLYDE � LA BÊTE � TWELVE ANGRY MEN � BOEING BOEING LAS MENINAS � DEATHTRAP � THE INNOCENTS � GEORGE GERSHWIN ALONE BEETHOVEN, AS I KNEW HIM � MARILYN: FOREVER BLONDE!

BOX OFFICE

941-351-8000

OR

800-361-8388 ASOLOREP.ORG

GIVE THE GIFT OF LIVE THEATRE! GIFT CERTIFICATES ARE AVAILABLE IN ANY AMOUNT SPONSORED BY

Asolo Rep’s artistic programs are paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax revenues.

CURTAINCALL

By Steven J. Smith

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE

SARASOTA OPERA

The Wanderers

La Cenerentola (Cinderella)

FST’s Goldstein Caberet Theatre is hoppin’ and boppin’ these

OK, this is not your Disney version by any means. Instead of a

days with the finger-snapping, toe-tapping, sing-along sounds of

wicked stepmother, we had a nasty stepfather (Stefano de Peppo in

The Wanderers, playing through Jan. 1 — and you won’t, and I

a dastardly turn as Don Magnifico); instead of a fairy godmother, we

mean WON’T, want to miss this one.

had the genteel philosopher/tutor Alidoro (sung by the soulful Benja-

The two-act musical revue, featuring the electric singing

min Gelfand). And who cares if the plot varied a bit? With a rich, lush,

talents of Eric Collins, Robert H. Fowler, Francis Kelly, and Bryan

vibrant score, this Rossini classic — originally performed in Rome on

McElroy, is a salute to the doo-wop stylings of the late 50s and

January 25, 1817 — was a dizzying pleasure for the ears and eyes in

the feel-good rock songs of the early-to-mid 60s. Written by

this glorious, intimate, and thoroughly charming opera house.

FST Artistic Director Richard Hopkins, Rebecca Langford and

The story is essentially the same as the one we all grew up

Jim Prosser, choreographed by Jimmy Hoskins, and directed

with. Cinderella, treated as a servant in the home of her abusive

by Hopkins, this show had the room jumping and screaming

stepfather and stepsisters Clorinda and Tisbe, longs to find a

for more!

way out of her horrid existence. A disguised Alidoro, tutor to Don

Each one of the four guys had his moment to shine and I

Ramiro, Prince of Salerno, appears as a beggar to ascertain for

would be remiss if I didn’t share some of my favorite renditions,

the prince how kindly the sisters will treat those seeking charity.

so here goes: Eric Collins’ magnificent tenor voice sent shiv-

Only Cinderella takes him in, much to the scorn of her stepsisters.

ers up and down our spines with his interpretations of “Sherry,”

Later, when the lonely prince — himself disguised as a servant

“Rama Lama Ding Dong,” and “Cry.” Robert H. Fowler’s rich and

— meets her, it’s love at first sight. You know the rest. Just sub-

smooth, deep bass voice seduced us with “The Wanderer” and

stitute Alidoro for the fairy godmother and a matching diamond

“One Fine Day,” while Francis Kelly charmed us with “Blue Moon,”

bracelet for the glass slipper, and you’re home free.

“Under The Boardwalk,” and “Runaround Sue,” and Bryan McEl-

Standout performers included the beautiful and talented

roy masterfully delivered the goods with “The Great Pretender”

mezzo-soprano Heather Johnson as a sensitive, loving, and for-

and “Up On The Roof.” Oh, and Mr. Prosser, who also arranged

giving Cinderella, Hak Soo Kim, whose crystal clear tenor voice

the songs, played a mean piano!

raised gooseflesh — and bravos — as the prince, the funny and

I also especially liked the group’s version of “The Lion Sleeps

charming baritone Sean Anderson as Dandini, the prince’s valet,

Tonight,” where each guy worked in his own unique personifica-

soprano Abla Lynn Hamza as the melodic and malicious stepsis-

tion of a jungle beast. It was pure animal magic.

ter Clorinda, and mezzo-soprano Melissa Treinkman as the equal-

The only moment that missed for me was the ill-fitting “An-

ly vicious stepsister Tisbe. Victor DeRenzi conducted a flawless

other Irish Drinking Song” at the top of Act Two, and I didn’t get

orchestra, Stephanie Sundine directed her performers fluidly, and

Mr. Hopkins’ efforts to rouse the crowd into clapping along and

Tony Fanning, Howard Tsvi Kaplan, and Ken Yunker contributed

cheering the performers since we were already totally absorbed

their admirable talents as scenic, costume, and lighting designers

in the event.

respectively, in this timeless fairy tale come to life.

Get out and see this one, before the tickets get snapped

Be sure to put Sarasota Opera on your cultural to-do list for

up. Word of mouth is already spreading on this terrific show. For

upcoming productions of La Boheme, Don Giovanni, I Lombardi,

tickets, call FST’s box office at (941) 366-9000. For more info on

and The Crucible. For more info on these operas, as well as other

the show, its cast, and the creative team, visit FST’s website:

opera-related events, call the box office at (941) 366-8450 or visit

www.FloridaStudioTheatre.org.

them online at www.sarasotaopera.org.

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December 2010

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83

VENICE THEATRE

the arc of its characters before any concessions to musical comedy

Ragtime

conventions. And it worked. Possibly the most groundbreaking musi-

Based on the 1975 novel by E. L. Doctorow, this musical tells the story of three disparate groups in early 20th century America —

cal in history, it reinvented the medium, shattered all box office records at the time and ran a then-unprecedented 2,212 performances.

upper class suburban WASPs, African-Americans, and Eastern Eu-

Although many of its stirring songs still pack a powerful punch

ropean immigrants — struggling to come to terms with themselves,

for 21st century audiences, the story of cowhands and farmers find-

each other, and the new nation in which they must all now coexist.

ing love and community in the old Oklahoma territory just comes off

It’s a big story, overarching in its size and scope, integrating such

a bit dated. And director/choreographer Dewayne Barrett had his

historical figures as Harry Houdini, Evelyn Nesbit, Booker T. Wash-

hands full, keeping such an unwieldy ball as this one rolling smooth-

ington, J.P. Morgan, Henry Ford, and Emma Goldman. As a result,

ly on course for the production’s considerable three-hour length.

it’s difficult to do real justice to any one of them, much less the main

There were several notable highlights, particularly among two

characters of the piece, which is probably why there has never been

of the show’s most talented cast members. Mary Connelly Burns

a fully successful Broadway production of the musical. Unfortunately,

as Ado Annie was a breath of fresh air from the outset. This young

Venice Theatre’s version was no exception, suffering from an exces-

lady took command of the stage from her first entrance, and her

sively slow pace and the miscasting of several lead roles.

rendition of “I Cain’t Say No” was a coquettish and life-affirming

However, there were some extremely bright aspects of the

anthem of physical love. Miss Burns is a performer of the first or-

production, most notably Delores Elizabeth McKenzie in the role of

der and has the chops for a lifetime of musical comedy roles. I’m

Sarah, a young African-American woman who abandons her baby

sure you’ll be seeing a lot more of her.

only to get it back with the help of a white family. McKenzie, in her

The other standout for me was Robert David May as Jud, the

Venice Theatre debut, absolutely stole this show. Her phenomenal

villain of the piece. I must say Mr. May is the best Jud I’ve ever seen,

singing voice delivered chills in the touching song, “Your Daddy’s

and I’ve seen quite a few. He took a one-dimensionally dark, loath-

Son,” where she sang an apology to her recovered baby, and her

some, dangerous monster and infused such a stirring pathos to him

understated acting and stunning stage presence sent a powerful

that you almost couldn’t help feeling sorry for him and the miserable

message that we’re sure to see more of this lovely young actress

life he led. And his interpretation of the song “Lonely Room” sent

in coming seasons. Other cast notables included Kim Kollar as

chills down my spine. His was the performance of the evening.

Mother, an early 20th century woman who learns to stand on her

Upcoming shows for the Players Theatre include Mame, Big:

own two feet, and Kristofer Geddie as Coalhouse Walker, Jr., a

The Musical, Rumors, The Producers, and Victor Victoria. For more

ragtime pianist who suffers the scourges of bigotry and hate.

information, call the box office at (941) 365-2494, or visit them on

Kudos also to costume designer Nicholas Hartman who, with

the Web at www.ThePlayers.org.

his talented cadre of assistants, created a phenomenal array of strikingly accurate period costumes for this cast of 43 actors. Bravo!

Don’t miss these other musicals on Venice Theatre’s 2010-

MANATEE PLAYERS Nunsensations!

2011 season schedule: SHOUT! The Mod Musical, and Always,

When I saw the original Nunsense in New York in the mid

Patsy Cline. For more info on them and the whole line up, call the

80s it was a brilliant, funny, touching musical that poked gentle

box office at (941) 488-1115 or log on to www.VeniceStage.com.

fun at Catholicism through the engaging personalities, antics, and misadventures of the five Little Sisters of Hoboken. Nunsense has

THE PLAYERS THEATRE

spawned a slew of sequels over the ensuing years, the most re-

Oklahoma!

cent of which is Nunsensations!. Sorry to say, this latest version

First produced way back in 1943, Oklahoma! set the tone for a

leaves much to be desired — not from the Manatee Players’ tal-

new kind of musical — one that would place the story’s narrative and

ented cast, but from the material itself, written by Nunsense fran-

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December 2010

scenesarasota.com

chise creator Dan Goggin.

Nunsensations!

finds

the

TICKETS

sisters

in Las Vegas, where they’ve accepted $10,000 for their diocese to perform an act at the Pump Room of the Mystique Motor Lodge. Hijinx ensue as the sisters attempt to maintain the proper moral decorum while performing in the morally corrupt surroundings of Sin City. Simply

Get your tickets to upcoming performances you won’t want to miss.

Bonnie & Clyde, The New Musical Through December 19 / Asolo Repertory Theatre / 941.351.8000 This vibrant and stylish new musical features a thrilling score that combines rockabilly, blues and gospel music.

stated, the problem with the show was

The Wanderers

that Goggin’s premise, script, and songs

Through January 1 / Florida Studio Theatre (FST) / 941.366.9000 Harmonious and dynamic, from the Four Seasons to the Beatles!

just weren’t strong, funny, or appealing enough to effectively hold the audience over its two-hour length.

That’s not to say, however, that the able and talented cast didn’t give it their all. My personal favorite was Stephanie Woodman-Costello as Sister Robert Anne, whose sunny disposition and Brooklyn street smarts served as the glue that held this determined little troupe together.

Mame December 2-12 / The Players Theatre / 941.365.2494 Based on the novel “Auntie Mame” by Patrick Dennis and the play “Auntie Mame” by Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee.

Oliver December 2 – 29 / Manatee Players / 941.748.5875 Based on the Dickens novel, it will engage your audience with its pathos and drama, while delighting everyone with its outstanding musical numbers.

Russia December 3 - 5 / Sarasota Orchestra / 941.953.3434 Enjoy Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2, concluding with the Prokofiev Fifth Symphony.

She was joined by Jeanne Larranaga as

Always, Patsy Cline

Mother Superior, Nancy Denton as Sister

December 3 – 11 / Venice Theatre / 941.488.1115 Based on the true story of Cline’s friendship with a Houston housewife and avid fan.

Hubert, Johana Davila as Sister Leo, and Laura Sommer Raines as Sister Mary Amnesia, each one making the most of her own moment to shine over the course of the evening. I just kept wishing the whole could have encompassed more than the sum of its parts.

Keep your eyes peeled for such up-

Salute to the Kings December 8 – 11 / Sarasota Orchestra / 941.953.3434 A salute to American music royalty.Tribute to Michael Jackson, Duke Ellington and Elvis.

The 39 Steps December 8 – January 30 / Florida Studio Theatre (FST) / 941.366.9000 Vintage Hitchcock meets Monty Python in this classic spy thriller, based on the film.

Nutcracker December 11 / Sarasota Ballet / 941.359.0099 The classic holiday ballet whose enchanted story never fails to cast its magic spell.

coming Manatee Players offerings as Oliver, Hairspray, Guys and Dolls, Shout, and Singing in the Rain in their 2010-11 season. Their box office number is (941) 748-5875, or visit them on the Web at www.manateeplayers.com.

Cirque Dreams “Holidaze” December 14 – 15 / Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall / 941.953.3368 An original new musical extravaganza filled with spectacle, imagination and whimsical dreams.

Happy Birthday Ludwig December 16 / Sarasota Orchestra / 941.953.3434 Chamber Concert celebrating Beethoven - Quartet No. 10, Op. 74, Harp and Quintet for Piano and Winds, Op 16.

A Christmas Carol December 17-19 / Venice Theatre / 941.488.1115 Now in its 11th year, this musical version of Dickens’ classic tale follows Ebenezer Scrooge as he reflects on his past, present and possible future. scenesarasota.com

December 2010

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scene | social Planned Parenthood’s Safe Sex Halloween Bash

View all photos at scenesarasota.com

P

lanned Parenthood, led by event co-chairs Liebe Gamble and Kyla Weiner, turned Van Wezel into “Cirque Sinister” for

Photography by Cliff Roles

its annual Safe Sex: Halloween Bash. Nearly 400 attendees were treated to over-the-top twisted circus themed décor, cocktails and late-night bites by Michael’s On East, thumping tunes courtesy of DJ Imminent, fire blowing/spinning by Pyromancer, various clown talents by Toby Circus Ballantine, dancing by Black Diamond Burlesque, and a dramatic pole dancing performance at midnight by Vertical Fitness. Major sponsors included Tervis Tumbler, Liebe & Billy Gamble, Scene Magazine, Creative Loafing, Brian Hadley, Mariel Purdon, Matthew Holler, Laura Gale & Virginia Hughes

and Mark Steinwachs and Jarred Wilson.

Liebe Smith Gamble & Kyla Yaeger Weiner

Jennifer McAllister

Renee Phinney & Sean Murphy

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December 2010

Jan Chester

Dr. Anne Chauvet

Shane Saah & Brigid Hewes

Chris & Kirk Voelker, Alex Miller & Scott Gerber

Angelique Bolletieri, Erin Reid & Dianne Glass

Barbara Zdravecky

Kinga Huse, Rachelle Prost & Tiffany Mohn scenesarasota.com

E C N E I R E P X E T R A G N I L G N I R E H T

BY RYAN G.

VAN CLEAVE

Scene Magazine is pleased pay tribute to the John Ringling tradition

of supporting local art and artists with “The Ringling Art Experience”.

Each featured artist has a connection with the Ringling Museum of Art or the school named in his honor, The Ringling College of Art and Design. What better way to continue John Ringling’s commitment to art and culture than to provide a forum for the exciting new work being created right here on the Culture Coast?

After finding the old Rolleiflex camera his father hid in his toy box, Ringling College of Art + Design senior Jay Van Dam never stopped looking through viewfinders and loving cameras. While he certainly adores his latest models--a Canon EOs 5D and a Nikon F4-he’s had great success with cell phone camera shapshots. “A good picture is a good picture,” he says, admitting that he’s always open to the surprise gem, no matter where or how it arrives. “Accidents are legal.”

Much of Jay’s inspiration comes stems from his many visits to the Sunshine State from his hometown of Ada, Michigan. “I’ve been traveling down here with my family and friends since before I can remember. Sarasota is such a great arts community. I’ve been quite lucky to have met so many professionals and artists around town who were willing to share,” he says. “It’s amazing.”

Jay’s photography has been well-received, having earned him a Trustee Scholarship at Ringling College, and inclusion in exhibitions such as SPE Crossroads in Atlanta and Mail Me Memories in London. With a professional photographer for a father, a BFA in Photography and Digital Imaging forthcoming from Ringling College in May 2011, and a genuine love for the craft of picture-making instilled in him from an early age, the road ahead seems bright indeed for Jay. To learn more about Jay or to see more of his photography, please visit: http://www.jayvandam.com Ryan G. Van Cleave (ryangvancleave.com) is a Sarasota-based freelance writer & writing coach. scenesarasota.com

December 2010

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TOM & JERRY’S Body Shop Too EXPERIENCE...PERFECTION....GUARANTEED RESULTS Smart car owners have been taking their cars for auto body work, washing and waxing, painting, and detailing to Tom & Jerry’s Body Shop for decades.

“There’s no Tom now,” owner Jerry Sobiech said. “I bought him out about 23 years ago and changed the name to Tom & Jerry’s Body Shop Too. Back when he owned it, there was no Jerry. Now there’s a Jerry and no Tom!” The fully licensed and insured shop is located at 3920 Brown Ave. in Sarasota.

Sobiech said the brand name was already strong when he bought the business, so he saw no point in drastically changing the name. He added that he is a “car nut,” which drove him to take over the business when he had the opportunity.

“I was a field consultant for McDonald’s Corporation at the time,” he said. “I did very well during my time there, but I thought, ‘why not go into a business that I enjoy myself?’” And enjoy it he does from every facet of his business – from fine service, to excellent quality of work, to outstanding customer care.

Sobeich works closely with shop manager John Plybon, who has been with Tom & Jerry’s for the past 8 years. The shop specializes in European and high-end auto body repair, and also offers washing, waxing, paintless dent removal, and detailing services. They work with all insurance companies, offer free estimates and car rentals.

“We give a 100 percent, lifetime warranty on all of our work, which includes labor and paint,” Sobiech said.

“And we are one of the few shops in Florida that uses PPG brand, water-based paint. PPG has been using water-based paints over in Europe for 20 years, and we took it on about a year and a half ago. It’s environmentally friendly. There are no toxins involved with the disposal of this paint. It won’t hurt anyone.” Sobeich added that in the two years the shop has been using PPG paint, there has not been one problem or redo with PPG paint.

Owner Jerry Sobiech & Manager John Plybon

Tom & Jerry’s washing and detailing services range in price from $49.95 to $200, depending on what’s

Want more info on Tom & Jerry’s Body Shop Too? Give them a call at (941) 362-0863. They accept cash, checks, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover.

needed. “We get cars that come in here splattered with paint,” Sobiech said. “We get some people that just want to come in for a detail. We have small cars, large cars. So our detailing prices range anywhere from $125 to $200, depending upon what the problem is.”

Don Carlson’s 60 Minute Cleaners The Only Thing That “Percs” is the Coffee Most everyone is aware of the environmental risks associated with using perchloroethylene (“PERC”), as a dry cleaning method. When PERC is released into the environment, it contributes to ground level ozone (smog). Once in air, PERC that makes its way into the ground may be harmful to plants and animals. This can cause a cumulative environmental impact that is significant.

CARLSONS

Do you want to help our environment? Of course you do.

Who can you trust?

For Don Carlson, the dry cleaning business is what he’s known most of his life. It started when he opened his first store in Brooklyn, New York many years

Don Carlson and his

ago and the evolution of his successful business career has been typical of true

courteous staff can save

entrepreneurial spirit.

After selling his Brooklyn store in 1988, he moved to Sarasota and purchased 60 Minute Cleaners on Southgate Circle, just south of the Southgate Shopping Mall

you time & money by providing professional

on Siesta Drive and Tuttle Avenue. Don and family members worked hard to build

service & care for all of

the much neglected business into a well-run, professional store. Because of Don’s

your dry cleaning needs.

attention to personal service and high quality cleaning methods, in addition to the Southgate Circle location, 60 Minutes also has stores at 6577 S. Tamiami Trail and in the Venice Commons Shopping Center.

60 Minute Cleaners only use an organic based non-chlorinated solvent that is gentler on garments and the environment. This safe cleaning method has no chemical odor and leaves your clothes smelling fresh. 60 Minute Cleaners also recycles hangars and plastic bags. So, remember, the only PERC at 60 Minute Cleaners is the percolated coffee.

All three locations offer free pick-up and delivery at your home or office. Services include professional cleaning of all types of garments from formal wear to comforters and draperies. The professional and courteous staff are experts in their field and are available to answer any questions you have. They take excellent care of all clients.

Visit 60 Minute Cleaners today and experience the difference. You’ll have the comfort of knowing you made wise choice.

• Safe Cleaning Method • Non-Chlorinated Solvent • Gentle on Clothes • No Chemical Odor, Clothes Smell Fresh • 3 Convenient Locations • Free Pick Up & Delivery Available 3115 Southgate Circle, Sarasota 941.955.1311 6577 S. Tamiami Trl, Sarasota Pavilion Mall 941.926.7737 Venice Commons Shopping Center 941.488.5656 dcleaning.com

scene | locally SHAPING OUR COMMUNITY G.WIZ TO LAUNCH REGION’S ONLY “FAB LAB”

MUSEUM AND ARTIST RETREAT ESTABLISH RESIDENCY

The Hermitage Artist Retreat announced a partnership with G.WIZ - The Science Museum has partnered with the

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, which will estab-

Faulhaber Family Foundation to launch the Faulhaber Fabri-

lish a residency for a Hermitage Fellow on the museum grounds.

cation Laboratory. Designed to promote science literacy and

The Gulf Coast Community Foundation/Hermitage Residency

cross-discipline collaboration and innovation, the project is the

at The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art is named to

first of its kind in the region. Dr. Fritz Faulhaber, through the

commemorate the Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s finan-

Faulhaber Family Foundation, recently donated $400,000 to

cial support in the renovation of the Ringling Cottage wherein

G.WIZ to launch the project. “We welcome the entire com-

the residency will be housed. As with all Hermitage Fellows, the

munity to get involved,” said Molly Morgan, G.WIZ Executive

artist or artists will have up to six weeks time to work in this

Director. “Once the lab is open, our staff will help train, mentor

prestigious location. hermitage-fl.org

and support anyone who wants to experience it—so no particular skill level is needed to start.” gwiz.org

WOMAN’S EXCHANGE NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR GRANTS & SCHOLARSHIPS

GULF COAST COMMUNITY FOUNDATION AWARDS NONPROFIT GRANTS

The Woman’s Exchange Inc. of Sarasota is accepting applications for grants and scholarships to support and enrich a

Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice recently awarded

variety of programs for local cultural organizations in Sarasota

more than $200,000 in operating grants to help several local non-

and Manatee counties, as well as students pursuing careers in

profits. The Foundation also approved grants to produce a new sea-

the arts. Students and area organizations interested in applying

son of a popular television series that showcases Venice and sur-

for a grant or scholarship are encouraged to access an online

rounding communities, and to help teachers in southern Sarasota

application by visiting www.womansexchange.com. The funds

County create innovative classroom learning projects. Grants were

for this program are realized through a consignment operation

awarded to Venice Symphony, Youth Experiencing Art, Southeast-

in which merchandise is accepted either as a donation or for

ern Guide Dogs, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast, North

consignment from both individuals and organizations. Applica-

Port Art Center, Sarasota Family YMCA, Catholic Charities of the

tions will be electronically accepted until 4 p.m. on Jan. 31, 2011,

Diocese of Venice, Education Foundation of Sarasota County, and

and awardees will be notified via e-mail in April 2011. Woman’s

the Health Foundation of South Florida. gulfcoastcf.org

Exchange has awarded more than $7 million since 1962.

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December 2010

scenesarasota.com

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PLYMOUTH HARBOR –

THE PLACE TO PURSUE PASSIONS

It was important to Betsy that when she retired, she would still be active and near a vibrant arts and cultural center. Plymouth Harbor’s proximity to downtown Sarasota makes it easy for her to pursue her passions of supporting the youth Opera and attending performances whenever she wishes. And with so many neighbors who actively volunteer with other organizations, charities and civic organizations, she always feels right at home. Plymouth Harbor may be located at the center of Sarasota, but our residents are the heart of the community.

When quality of life, smart planning and freedom to pursue passions and new interests are top priorities, Plymouth Harbor is the wise choice. Call us today for a tour of our award-winning campus, luxury accommodations and amenities.

Sarasota’s First Choice in Continuing Care Retirement Communities

700 John Ringling Blvd • Sarasota, Florida 34236 (941) 365-2600 • www.PlymouthHarbor.org A Not-For-Profit Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) OIR #88039