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We save land, forever.
But we can’t do it without you. PhoTo: Kerri GaGne PhoToGraPhy
Join us to ensure our scenic places, clean water, and abundant wildlife last for endless generations. Together we can connect more kids to nature, protect the plants and animals you love, and safeguard the special places you call home.
Visit conservationfoundation.com/joinus to learn more.
Going Further.
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CONTENTS features
70
65 A DOG MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE By Leslie Rowe 70 INCREASING STEM ACCESS FOR SOUTH COUNTY SARASOTA At State College of Florida’s Venice Campus By Jamie M. Smith 74 KEEPING PETS AND THEIR PEOPLE TOGETHER By Carol Brzozowski 78 OUR TOWN Reimagining a Classic at Asolo Rep By Ryan G. Van Cleave
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65
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SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
80 BEACONS OF HOPE Profiles of local philanthropic organizations
ON THE COVER Photo collage of local volunteers and philanthropic organizations.
CONTENTS departments
SOCIAL SCENE
PHILANTHROPY
24 THE LIST December Events Calendar PARTY PICS 36 Women on the Scene Launch Party 37 New College Clam Bake
38 USFSM Brunch on the Bay
39 Sarasota Orchestra Curtain Raiser
40 Ringling Museum “Hard Bodies”
90
41 SPARCC Gala 42 Sunshine From Darkness Inspiring Hope Dinner 43 All Star Children’s Foundation 44 SCENE SNAPS Reader Recipes
INSIDER
92 16
SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
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52 THE FIND New Year’s Eve Party Products By Gina Liga 90 SPOTLIGHT It’s a Wonderful Life: Celebrating an Enduring Favorite By Gus Mollasis 92 EDUCATION MATTERS Girls Inc. Says “Eureka!” By Ryan G. Van Cleave
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54 YOU HAD ME AT BALLET Audrey Robbins & Harry Leopold Partner for the Arts By Sylvia Whitman 60 A HEALTHIER COMMUNITY The Caring Legacy of J. Robert & Mary Jane Donnelly By Carol Brzozowski
ARTS & CULTURE 96 BEST SEATS Performing Arts Calendar 100 ART SCENE Gallery Exhibits & Events 102 LITERARY SCENE Three New Young Adult novels By Ryan G. Van Cleave 105 LAUGHING MATTERS The Final Hah Hah By Ryan G. Van Cleave
Be Informed Be Entertained Be SCENE scenesarasota.com
READERS’ CHOICE FIRST PLACE
2021 BEST BUILDER UTIVE 29 COY E ANSEC RS
SARASOTA MANATEE VENICE
from the publisher
“ What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make”
S
—JANE GOODALL
SEASON HAS ARRIVED! Many of the organizations that make a difference in our community are back at full throttle. The visual and performance arts community, philanthropic organizations, foundations, not-for-profits, and our institutions have all started their fundraising, outreach programs, and engagement initiatives in earnest. I am so proud to live in an area that boasts a wealth of charitable organizations that make a tremendous difference across our community. So many people, grateful for their own blessings amid challenging times, are giving generously. If you’re looking to make a positive difference, look no further than the many outstanding nonprofit organizations highlighted in this issue. Sarasota Scene has been fortunate to sponsor and support many key events. Kudos to the SPARCC Gala for kicking off the season with a sold-out event at the Weston. Their tight, highly professional program created excitement and raised money, while sharing devastating family stories that underscore the need for this organization. JoshProvides treated us to a virtual evening, accompanied by a delivered snack bag. Congratulations to Andria Keil Bilan on a well put together event that expanded our knowledge about epilepsy seizures and the importance of the animal component. Please look for the documentary Animal Magic… or Medicine? We also sponsored Sunshine from Darkness, an initiative of the Lee and Bob Peterson Foundation, as led by Jeff Peterson. At the Inspiring Hope Dinner at the Ritz-Carlton, we heard first-hand accounts of addiction and mental health issues from Steve Ford and Darryl Strawberry, and learned about opportunities to address these issues at early stages. I look forward to attending Feast Upon the Fields, the locally-sourced, farm-to-table luncheon in early December, which benefits the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast. The setting, Old Miakka Ranch, is a gem in our community. So many organizations here are “beacons of hope”—making powerful impacts on people’s lives, from expanding opportunities for the underserved to supporting the very essentials of life. All the organizations participating in this issue of Sarasota Scene magazine deserve our patronage. Now is a great time to show your support for these fine organizations, whether by attending their galas and events or making direct donations.
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SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
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from the publisher We are very lucky to have wonderful local live entertainment. Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe’s Eubie was a knockout with songs like “Love Will Find a Way” and “I’m Just Wild About Harry.” At Florida Studio Theatre, Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story treats us to amazing voices and wonderful entertainment. I look forward to seeing Hair at Asolo Repertory Theatre, the exhibition As long as there is sun, as long as there is light at The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Program 2 – Day & Night at The Sarasota Ballet, and Charles McGill: In the Rough at Sarasota Art Museum.
Stress-Less
Holiday Season
Morton’s Market can create a stressless holiday season with a superb array of delicacies perfect for any festive occasion. From expertly catered parties to elegant holiday menus, our chefs bring their best to each meal so you can have less to do and more time to enjoy. Fine wines, floral centerpieces and holiday gift baskets are always a good idea.
Receive a FREE $10 gift card for every $100 worth of gift cards purchased. Offer good Dec. 1st - 31st.
Christmas order deadline: Saturday, December 18 at 2 p.m. Call for custom New Year’s menus!
Serving the Sarasota area for over 50 years
Historic Southside Village ∙ 1924 South Osprey Ave. Sarasota ∙ (941) 955-9856 ∙ MortonsMarket.com 20
SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
As you look ahead to 2022, keep in mind initiatives and events from our fine institutions that support quality education, medical care, and research. For example, the annual Clambake scholarship fundraiser hosted by New College Foundation, programs at Mote Marine that advance insight into water quality, and the far-reaching Annual Fund at State College of Florida. USF Sarasota-Manatee’s Brunch on the Bay was wonderful to attend after a year’s postponement. Lots of credit to Elizabeth Moore for chairing an amazing event over a twoyear period with many ups and down. It was a beautiful, fun time that raised a lot of money for USFSM. Let’s give next year’s chairs Dr. Anila Jain and Dr. Mona Jain all the support we can for 2022. Finally, you’re invited to explore our newly-released special issue, Women on the Scene, now available in print and online. It features the most notable women leaders of the Sun Coast. These distinguished women of our community, who we would all be proud to know, are dynamic drivers of local business, philanthropy, the arts, and cultural communities. Please take a moment to go to SceneSarasota.com and download your digital copy today. ‘Tis the season to be Scene!
If you’re wondering what a gift to the Healthcare Foundation can do,
Ask a stroke patient. Kati had a stroke at her gym. At the time, she couldn’t talk but she could think. She worried that her children might grow up with a single parent—as she did. The Healthcare Foundation has provided grants for stroke telespecialists and life-saving, high-tech equipment such as the Rapid iSchemaView enabling physicians to make faster, more accurate diagnostic and treatment decisions for stroke patients. Kati says that thanks to the SMH stroke team and the support of the Healthcare Foundation, her family remains intact. Every gift can make a difference to someone, including you.
Together we strengthen healthcare.
Give today. 941.917.1286 | smhf.org
A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. THE HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION WILL USE THE FUNDS FOR THE STATED PURPOSE BUT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO USE THE GIFT IN A MANNER CONSISTENT WITH ITS CHARITABLE PURPOSE IF THE STATED PURPOSE IS IMPOSSIBLE OR IMPRACTICAL TO ACHIEVE.
Locally Owned and Operated Since 1957 Vol. 64 No. 12
Building a brighter future for children in foster care through innovation, science, and compassion. Foster
Volunteer
Donate
Publisher H John Knowles Editor–in–Chief Wendy Lyons Sunshine Strategic Partnerships Julie A. Milton Art Director Darcy Kelly–Laviolette
AllStarChildren.org
Social Media & Digital Content Gina Liga Distribution Mike Straffin Accounting Sally A. Bailey Advertising Enquiries Paul McNamara Call/Text 917.751.6506 | paul@scenesarasota.com Tom Garriott Call/Text 317.797.8135 | tom@scenesarasota.com Contributing Writers Ryan G. Van Cleave Sylvia Whitman Gus Mollasis Carol Brzozowski Leslie Rowe Jamie M. Smith Contributing & Social Photographer Nancy Guth Contributing Photographer Curtis Anderson, Jr. 1834 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.365.1119 | Fax: 941.954.5067 | scenesarasota.com
Subscribe at scenesarasota.com/magazine/shop
22
H John Knowles LLC, dba SCENE Magazine publishes 12 issues a year. Address editorial, advertising and circulation correspondence to the above address. Sufficient return postage and self–addressed, stamped envelope must accompany all manuscripts, artwork and photographs submitted if they are to be returned or acknowledged. Publisher assumes no responsibility for care of return of unsolicited materials. Subscription price: $12.95 per year, $19.95 for two years. All contents copyrighted. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
be
Together with Tidewell Hospice, we’re bringing hope to our community. With research-backed grief counseling that reduces trauma for kids and families. With art, music, and pet therapy that relieves pain and creates new memories. All thanks to our generous donors, who care enough to make a difference. Brighten lives today. TidewellFoundation.org
social SCENE
The LIST DECEMBER 2021
Good cheer abounds with music, food, song, circus events, and sparkling lights!
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SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
December 2 » City Christmas Tree Lighting Ring Sarasota will perform classic holiday songs at the annual lighting of downtown Sarasota’s Christmas tree. Five Points Park | ringsarasota.org 3 » The 34th Annual Winter Gala – Lighting the Way Help provide local children with a brighter tomorrow. Enjoy dinner, drinks and entertainment. Michael’s On East | thefloridacenter.org 3 » Bradenton Blues Festival Listen to an outstanding lineup of talented blues musicians on the big stage, while sipping on local craft beer and wine, dining on delicious food and shopping cool festival merchandise. LECOM Park | bradentongulfislands.com
Good Boy. Great Gift! Sponsor a puppy for $19 a month for yourself or as a gift. Every guide dog and service dog starts out as an adorable puppy. When you sponsor a puppy for yourself or as a gift, you can follow along as it grows up to help someone in need.
Here’s what you’ll get when you sponsor a puppy: » Regular Pupdates ÄSSLK ^P[O news of your puppy’s journey » Photos of your pup and a photo album to collect them » Our annual Southeastern Guide Dogs calendar, mailed in the fall » An adorable puppy photo magnet » A KV^USVHKHISL JLY[PÄJH[L
I’m sponsoring Daphne guidedogs.org/puppy
My Puppy’s Photo Album
Sign up at GuideDogs.org/puppy or call 941.729.5665
Celebrating
49 YEARS
3 » Holiday Night of Lights The official kick off to the holiday season. The event begins with a Christmas carol performance, followed by Santa’s arrival and then a tree lighting. St. Armands Circle | starmandscircleassoc.com 3 » Gem, Jewelry and Bead Show Features exhibitors selling and displaying gems, jewelry, crystals, minerals and beads of every shape, color and size. Sarasota Municipal Auditorium | eventcrazy.com 4 » Sarasota Holiday Parade Decorated floats, live marching bands, Santa and fun for the whole family. Downtown Sarasota | mustdo.com/events/ sarasota 4 » Holiday Tour of Lights Tour the city’s best lights from a festive trolley. SRQ Trolley | srqtrolley.com 5 » Feast Upon the Fields Make your way through the fields to a culinary adventure through nature. Enjoy a locally-sourced farm-to-table luncheon provided by Mattison’s under tent on newly conserved land. Old Miakka Ranch | conservationfoundation.com
SIESTA KEY • 941.349.6644 ST. ARMANDS • 941.388.5239 DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical Book and Lyrics by
Music by
GEROME RAGNI & JAMES RADO
GALT MACDERMOT
Directed and Choreographed by
JOSH RHODES
On Stage Now–Jan 1 REPERTORY RE TURNS IN JANUARY!
Jan 12-Mar 26
Jan 19-Apr 1
Feb 9-Apr 2
941.351.8000 | 800.361.8388 | asolorep.org Learn more about our safety protocols at asolorep.org/safety Hair Sponsors
Season Sponsors
Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation 28
SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
#SafeArtsSarasota
MOON & COMPANY EYEWEAR LUXURY & EXOTIC Custom Prescription Eyewear
5 » Sarasota Veg Fest Come see how easy it is to find healthy plant-based foods in Sarasota. Find local sources of eco-friendly and cruelty-free products. Learn about the science behind the benefits of a plantbased diet. Featuring expert speakers, cooking demos, vendors, entertainment and activities for the whole family. Payne Park | sarasotaveg.org 10 –12 » Coquina Beach Seafood & Music Festival Fresh seafood and live music! Enjoy foods cooked fresh on-site with a variety of side dishes, desserts and drinks as well. Musical genres include R & B, jazz, rock, reggae and Caribbean. Coquina Beach | bradentongulfislands.com
SEPTEMBER SPECIAL GIFTGifts Sunglasses Make Perfect
$100 off on a pair of presciption glasses SHAMIR-EYE-POINT HI DEF LENSES in ISRAEL. and $50TECHNOLOGY off a comprehensive eyemade exam. Call Us Today For A Free Consultation! T: 941-260-8523 W: mooncoeyewear.com E: sales@mooncoeyewear.com 105 S Lemon AVE | Sarasota, Fl 34236 DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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362301-1 362301-1
10 –12 » Showfolks of Sarasota Holiday Circus Festival Holiday shopping with local craft vendors and an indoor stage featuring local talents. Food vendors, children’s activities, photos with Santa and of course, entertainment under the big top! Robarts Arena | sarasotafaircom
presents
Incredible youth circus artists perform thrilling feats in this family friendly show!
Sun • Dec 26 thru Thur • Dec 30, 2021 Sun 1 & 6pm Mon - Thur 2 & 7pm
IN-PERSON SHOWS The health and safety of our patrons and artists is our highest priority. 30
SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
TICKETS $20 - $35
Presenting Sponsors:
Shari & Stephen Ashman Phyllis Siskel
For those ready for what’s next
2020 top individual agent for the Lakewood Ranch office • Five Star Professional - 13th year and the Florida REALTORS® Honor Society - 13th year • Her designations of importance are: Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) and Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) • She also earned the Commitment to Excellence (C2EX) endorsement from the National Association of REALTORS® for agents who are committed to practicing business at the highest standards
MICHELLE CRABTREE 941.724.4663 Michelle.Crabtree@PremierSIR.com MichelleCrabtree.PremierSothebysRealty.com
Third-generation local and broker associate since 1982
11 » Porsches in the Park Suncoast Motorsports hosts their annual event at the park on the Circle. Some of the most spectacular Porsches from all over Florida will be on display for public viewing. St. Armands Circle | starmandscircleassoc.com
Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.
11–12 » Sarasota Holiday Arts & Crafts Festival Shop for beautiful arts and crafts and unique gifts! Featuring original works by artisans from all over Florida. Painting, photography, sculpture, candles, metalwork and more. J.D. Hamel Park | paragonartevents.com 16–17 » Florida International Air Show Performances by the F-16 Viper Demo Team, the U.S. Special Operations Command Parachuters, ChefPitts, Scott Farnsworth and much more. Punta Gorda Airport | floridaairshow.com
DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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18 » Create a Living Holiday Wreath Get festive with air plants! Deck the halls and get into the spirit while crafting a living epiphyte wreath of Schedule a FREE Assessment! your very own. Selby Gardens | selby.org 20 » Ringling by the Bay Live music and dancing with Big Night Out. Food and drinks available for purchase. Ringling Museum Grounds | ringling.org 31 » NYE Downtown Sarasota The party under the stars kicks off at 1:00 PM and continues until 1:00 AM. Full carnival rides and games, food and drinks, live music, fireworks and more. Five Points Park | destinationdowntownsarasota.com
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Changing the Way the World Ages I HHA-299994463 32
SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
31 » New Year’s Eve Gala Sarasota’s most sophisticated black tie New Year’s Eve experience. Includes a private tour go Lights in Bloom, an exquisite four-course dinner by Michael’s On East and a perfect view of the fireworks on the Bay. Selby Gardens/Michael’s on the Bay | visitsarasota.com
the kaleidoScope oF nature BeN eF itiNG CoNServati oN Fou Ndat ioN oF t He GuL F Coa St
Please join us
Saturday, February 5, 2022 for an elegant evening and reimagined experience at Bay Preserve on Little Sarasota Bay Help protect the beauty and vibrancy of Florida’s Gulf Coast, forever. Now accepting sponsorships and reservations for this exclusive event. 941.918.2100 conservationfoundation.com/thepalmball
DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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THANKS TO YOU... The Exchange has been a proud supporter of the arts of our community since 1962.
Find your joy Sarasota’s #1 consignment shop
The joy of shopping The joy of giving The joy of recycling The joy of supporting students and the arts in our community
OP H S W O N AT E N I L N O AWEX.COM
T SARASkO-up in Store Pic
DONATE SHOP CONSIGN VOLUNTEER
This purchase helped support 23 Art Organizations & 22 Students during fiscal year 2019-2020
539 S. ORANGE | 941-955-7859 | OPEN MON-FRI 9-4 & SAT 10-4 | www.sarasotawex.com
UPCOMING events JAN 6 – 30 | Orchids in Paradise Explore the variety and beauty of hundreds of different types of orchids. Sarasota Municipal Auditorium | sarasotaorchidsociety.org JAN 14–16 | Dollhouse Miniatures Festival Everything you need to furnish your dollhouse. Larger sized dolls, toys and teddy bears also available, as well as DIY workshops. Holiday Inn Sarasota Airport | miniaturiaunlimited.com JAN 14–16 | Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival Local bands playing a variety of live music, food vendors, arts and crafts, kids activities and street performers. J.D. Hamel Park | paragonartevents.com
V IS IT S C EN ES A R A S O TA . C O M To submit your event for consideration, please send information to scenemagazine@scenesarasota.com
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SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
SARASOTA M E M O RI AL H E ALTH CAR E FOUNDATI ON
SATURDAY JANUARY 8, 2022 THE RITZ-CARLTON, SARASOTA
Benefiting critical care services at our health system
For event updates and tickets, Visit smhf.Org/events/gala
P r e m i e r Spons o r
H e l ico pt e r S p o n s o r
Drs. Joel and Gail Morganroth Ambulance Sponsors Ariane Dart
Jonathan & Michelle Mitchell, Mitchell Family Foundation
Eric and Doreen Spiegel
DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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social SCENE
PARTY pics WOMEN ON THE SCENE 2021 LAUNCH PARTY An exceptional group joined publisher John Knowles at Art Ovation to celebrate the new release of Women on the Scene, a triennial special issue paying tribute to outstanding women of the local business, philanthropy, the arts, and cultural communities. Photos by Curtis Anderson.
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SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
social SCENE Jay Handelman with Dr. Bart & Joan Levenson
Mary Ruiz, Monica & Richard VanBuskirk & Colin Jeffries
Sarah Pappas & Veronica Brady
NEW COLLEGE CLAM BAKE
New College of Florida’s 42nd annual Clambake, co-chaired by Karin Gustafson and Priscilla and Jack Schlegel, garnered nearly 400 attendees and $530,000—a record for this signature event. Lisa & Steven High
Kevin Hughes, Peer Phillipes, Vivian Cargillo, & Gerry Ronkin
Save a Life This Holiday Season
Adopt | Donate | Volunteer 2542 17th St, Sarasota, FL 34234 | 941.366.2404 | catdepot.org DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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social SCENE Dr. Anila Jain, Elizabeth Moore, & Dr. Mona Jain
Your One-Stop Kitchen & Bath Remodeling Shop Mario McPherson & Myles McCants
Competitive Pricing • Locally Owned
USFSM BRUNCH ON THE BAY
Guests enjoyed music and dining at the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus 27th Brunch on the Bay, which raised over $500,000 for student scholarships.
Jan Mauck with Emile & Deborah Gauvreau
Carolyn Erdman & Kelly Erdman
Schedule your FREE consultation today! 941-284-9220 • www.southshorekitchenandbath.com 1333 N Washington Blvd, Unit D Sarasota, FL 34236 38
SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
Judy Genshaft & Lourdes Valiente
Judy Genshaft & Lourdes Valiente
social SCENE Stacey Addams & Bill Tompkins
Syble & Peter DiGirolamo
Harry Leopold & Audrey Robbins
Phillip King & Marrie Neumer SARASOTA ORCHESTRA CURTAIN RAISER
Sarasota Opera patrons and friends celebrated the start of the 2021-22 opera season amid the lush landscape of the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Guests enjoyed an elegant threecourse dinner and exciting performances by principal artists from the Sarasota Opera’s fall production of Rossini’s The Silken Ladder (La scala di seta).
We’ve got you covered
Margaret & Russell Wiltshire
Richard Russell, Maestro DeRenzi & John Knowles
Reserve A Table Or Book Your Holiday Event! Call today to find out more about catering and private dining 5104 Ocean Blvd | Siesta Key 941.349.1423 | cafegabbiano.com OPEN CHRISTMAS EVE: 4 PM – 8 PM OPEN CHRISTMAS DAY: 2 PM – 8 PM OPEN NEW YEAR’S EVE: 5 PM – 10 PM DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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social SCENE Steven High & Mark Smith
Rhiannon Paget, Curator of Asian Art
Jeri Sedlar & Rick Miners
RINGLING MUSEUM “HARD BODIES” OPENING
Eighty members of the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art previewed Hard Bodies: Contemporary Japanese Lacquer Sculpture, which runs through Jan. 23, 2022.
Elisabeth Waters, Virginia Harshman, & John Knowels
TogetherAgain
Catholic Charities Ball 2022 February 5, 2022
RITZ-CARLTON
Sarasota and Manatee Counties 40
SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
Sarasota, FL
For more information call 941.909.7817 or email hilles.hughes@catholiccharitiesdov.org
social SCENE Vlado Konatar & Danica Jokic
Shirley Wulf, Joan Castellani, Barbara Gardner & Kimberley Pelyk
Kelly Dean & Darci Jacobs
Debbie & Jeff Bosse
SPARCC GALA
Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) commemorated its 40th Anniversary with The Ruby Gala at The Westin Sarasota, where 235 guests celebrated and raised critical funding.
The Volunteers
There’s still so much to be ThankFULL for this year. Join the ThankFULL campaign today to help provide 3.2 million meals to our neighbors in need this holiday season. Give today at allfaithsfoodbank.org 941.379.6333 DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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social SCENE Mark Smith & Michael Kulaw
For 75 Years, Steve Ford & Darryl Strawberry with Jeffrey Peterson
Tom Taylor, Margaret Wise, Sarah Karp, & Taylor Karp Teymuri
we have proudly served individuals of all ages who live every day with disabilities in Southwest Florida.
SUNSHINE FROM DARKNESS INSPIRING HOPE DINNER
More than 300 attended the sold-out 2021 Inspiring Hope Dinner at the Ritz-Carlton, co-chaired by Taylor Karp Teymuri and Sarah Karp. Over $170,000 was raised. Karen Greco & Christine Turner
ACCESS AND INCLUSION As we drive into the next chapter of our mission, we will remain steadfast and as community needs evolve, so too will the programs at Easterseals Happiness House in order to help those we serve live their life to the fullest.
Michael & Traci Smullen
PRE-K • K-12 EASTERSEALS ACADEMY EMPLOYMENT • ADULT DAY TRAINING OCCUPATIONAL, PHYSICAL, SPEECH THERAPIES EQUINE-ASSISTED THERAPY & HIPPOTHERAPY OPENING SOON: AUTISM CENTER OF EXCELLENCE
LEARN MORE AT
easterseals-swfl.org 42
SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
Brent Greeno & Sharon Kunkel
Jeremy Shelby, Nate Jacobs & Vernon Keernon
social SCENE Dennis McGillicuddy & Tom Koski
Katherine Harris & Mark Pritchett Angela & TJ Nutter with Graci McGillicuddy
Dennis Jesse, Faby Napoleon & Jon Thaxton
Sheila Miller, Doug Staley & Veronica Miller
ALL STAR CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION GRAND OPENING
All Star Children’s Foundation co-founders Graci and Dennis McGillicuddy and 300 guests celebrated the Grand Opening of the Campus of Hope and Healing on November 16, 2021. CEO Dr. Sharon Ghazarian shared plans for brightening the future of children in foster care. Umbreen Khalidi-Majeed, Katherine Harris, Terri Klauber & Donna Koffman
E S T. 1 9 4 6
INTERIOR DESIGN
1851 Hillview St, Sarasota LancasterInteriorDesign.com | 941.365.2342 DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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Scene Snaps This month, cozy up with mouth-watering recipes from our readers.
Fish preparation • Put salmon in glass dish and cover with entire bottle of salad dressing. Refrigerate for 2 hours to marinate. • After 2 hours, preheat oven to 350 degr ees. • Scoop fish out with a slotted spoon and put in baking dish. (Do not cook in the salad dressing as it will get very mushy.) • Cover and bake for 20-25 minutes—not longer as it will be reheated with the sauce later. Wipe off any white fat you see after baking. Set aside.
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Pasta preparation While the salmon bakes, cook pasta acco rding to directions but make it “al dente.” After pasta is cook ed, drain and rinse. Final Assembly and Baking Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, mix all remaining ingredients except mushroo ms, fish, and pasta. Then mix in the pasta. Spray a 9x13 oblong casserole dish with oil. Spread the pasta/sauce mixture in the dish and spre ad mushrooms and fish on top of that. Add a light sauce cove ring on top.
e Pasta hand ne Penn s t io n z e ie ll d other on o e r n C a la Ing h il it r a w z box B a sauce, • 1 16-o Bake covered for 30 minutes or until pipin lli’s Vodk o t r e B r g hot. z ja ieces. p ll a m • 1 24-o Serv s e garn ishe o d t with fresh in shav t ed parm u esan and optional c if needed zzarella red pepper flakes for guests who like it spic fresh mo f d o e ier. p s e p c o n h yc • 8 ou ion finall n o m r iu d ja e d • 1 me ely minc sh or in a loves fin ooms fre c r c h s li r u a g m • 2 f sliced ounces o es. (Tip: ch squar • 6 to 8 n -i 1 o t l) on cut in r to cut.) (optiona fresh salm s makes it easie f o rlic s e c n e asted Ga inut o m R • 12 ou 0 d 3 n r a fo n fish Parmesa freezing an’s Own m w e N le • 1 bott ssing d la sa dre oil spray • Olive
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holida d a favorite re a h s g rlin Diane Sti e Pepe. Rolli Cacio : d o o h d il her ch
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“Alexa, open my shades”
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saying d Lemon Blossoms, Ellen Heritage share te so is allergic to chocola “I have a friend who e—it’s tive. It’s not my recip this is a nice alterna they’re always a hit! from Paula Deen—and rk!” They’re worth the wo
LEMON BLOSS
OMS
(based on Paul a Deen / Food N etwork) Ingredients: • 1 8 1/2-oz. pa ckage yellow or lemon cake mix • 3 1/2-oz. pack age instant lemon pudding mix • 4 large eggs • 3/4 cup vege table oil Glaze: • 4 cups confec tioners’ sugar • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice • 1 lemon, zest ed • 3 tablespoon s vegetable oil • 3 tablespoon s water
CLYDE BUTCHER Venice Gallery & Studio
FINE ART BLACK & WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY Open: Tuesday - Friday • 10 am – 4 pm HOLIDAY BOOK SIGNING Saturday, December 11th • 9 am—3 pm 941.486.0811 • clydebutcher.com 237 Warfield Ave S, Venice, FL 4 46 6
SARASOTA SARASOTA SCENE SCENE || DECEMBER DECEMBER 2021 2021
Directions: • Preheat the ov en to 350 degree s F. • Spray miniatu re muffin tins w ith vegetable oil. Combine cake m ix, pudding mix , eggs and oil an blend with an el d ectric mixer until smooth, about 2 minutes. Fill ea ch muffin tin on ly halfway—do not overfill! Bake for 12 minutes. Ca refully remove muffins from pa n. • For glaze, sift sugar into a mix ing bowl. Add le juice, zest, oil, an mon d 3 tablespoons water. Mix with a spoon until sm ooth. Dip the cu pcakes into the glaze while they ’re still warm or spoon the glaze over the warm cu pcakes. Place on wire racks with waxed paper un derneath to catc h dr ips. Let the glaze set thorou ghly, about 1 ho ur , before storing in containers with tight-fitting lids. Makes 5 to 6 doze n, and they freeze well.
Kugel Noodle Casserol
Kugel ared this tasty Andria Bilan sh sh for role, a staple di Noodle Casse anukkah. her family for H generations in
e
Ingredients • 3 eggs separated • 1/2 cup melted butter • 2 tbsp of sugar • 1 lb. of creamed cotta ge cheese • 1 cup of sour cream • 1/2 lb. of med cooked noodles • 1/2 cup of raisins • 12/ cup of crushed co rn flakes Directions Preheat oven to 375 degre es Butter two quart casser ole dish Beat three egg yolks. Add melted butter and sug ar Fold in cottage cheese, sou r cream, noodles and rai sins Beat three egg whites an d fold in stiff beaten egg whites. Place in two quart butte red casserole and sprink le top with crushed corn flakes. Dot generously with butte r. Bake for 45 minutes unco vered.
in stock handcrafted gifts cut ting boards wooden toys lazy susans jewelry chests cedar chests gliders bedroom dining living room office outdoor 3737 BAHIA VISTA ST. SARASOTA, FL 34232 - 941.952.5646 - 6100 N LOCKWOOD RIDGE RD. SARASOTA, FL 34243 - 941.960.2942
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| DECEMBER DECEMBER 2021 2021 | SARASOTA SARASOTA SCENE SCENE
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Happy Holidays From
Everything from budget friendly to the very latest trends in designer flooring.
Call or Visit Our Website to Request a Free Flooring Estimate 941.315.2988 • yourflooringwarehouse.com • 3333 N. Washington Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34234 48
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ast
l’s On E Michae m o fr , Lajoie tata. ef, Ray h c y r le Cros t p s p Pa A l u utif his bea shared
Apple Crostata Crust • 2c flour • 2 sticks of butter very cold chopped into cubes • 1/4c sugar • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/4c cold water Place all dry ingredients into a food processor, pulse 3 or 4 times to combine. Add butter pulse 6 to 8 times. Do not over process – you want the butter to be in small pieces, then add water pulse until it dough forms a ball. Wrap in
plastic and chill for 1 hour. Cream Filling • 1 pound cream cheese, room temp • 2c 10X sugar • 2 egg yolks • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • Zest of 1 lemon Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth, add remainder of ingredients mix to combine Apple Filling • 4c chopped granny smith apples • 6 tablespoons sugar • 2 teaspoons cinnamon • 1 tablespoon lemon juice • 1/4c flour Roll dough into a 12 “ circle place on a sheet pan. Spread cream cheese mixture on the dough leaving at least 1 inch from the edge of the crust. Top the cream cheese with the apples, gently fold over the curst to the center. Brush the edge of the crust with egg whites and dust with granulated sugar. Bake at 350 for 30 to 40 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
4420 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941.260.8905 www.shellysgiftandchristmasboutique.com Open 7 Days a Week Until Christmas 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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loaf ed Meat ff u t S r hedda hef.com
ec oC Jalapen t at thestayathom e ll Recip
Fu nts eef 85/15 Ingredie ground b s d n u o umbs • 2 p bread cr in la p p asoning • 1 cu Italian se n o o p s le • 1 tab lt spoon sa k pepper • 1 tea oon blac p s a e t 2 / • 1 up milk • 1/2 c e sauce e egg estershir c r • 1 larg o w s n lespoo • 2 tab minced lapenos ja 2 o t 1 r cheese • k chedda ic r b z o • 8
school Meat lover Carla Bright serves up old rent Texas meatloaf, complete with four diffe le bar of habanero peppers in the meat, a who eños sharp cheddar in the middle, and jalap green on top. Serve with sugar cornbread and . beans. 45 minutes cook time, 15 prep
For many children living in poverty, their circumstances can impact brain development and impair their ability to learn, which leads to lifelong consequences. These children are at risk of not achieving their full potential. The education, care, and comprehensive support services Children First provides helps children build a solid foundation for lifelong learning and well-being. The benefits they gain last them a lifetime. Children with access to early childhood education have improved health, are more likely to go to college, and have better career opportunities. Please consider making a thoughtful gift to Children First today to discover the potential in the children we serve.
childrenfirst.net 50
SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
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shared ichardson Kristina R aiths ns, an All F ffi u m in k pump e love favorite. “W Food Bank staff em for our making th nts and raging clie and encou ake mbers to m e m y it n u comm ll. “ cipe as we re s u io c li e this d
Join us! Enter before December 7 for the theme: Healthy New Year! Show us how you stay fit and fabulous! Do you practice yoga? Hike? Lift weights? Swim? Zumba? Help us get motivated for a healthy New Year, by emailing photos and description to wendy@scenesarasota.com by December 7. DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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2. 1.
The FIND
3.
Planning a New Year's Eve party? These products will help you ring in the New Year with style! By Gina Liga
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1. NAPKIN HOLDER FLOWER VASE Elegant acrylic napkin rings double as flower vases, for the perfect finishing touch to your holiday dinner party! Use flowers, fresh herbs, holiday berry stems… get creative! Shoogie Boogies $57 for 12 | shoogieboogies.com 2. COCKTAIL RING Celebrate New Year with this festive ring! A beautiful pear-shaped ruby is the star of the show, surrounded by tanzanite gemstones. Made of 14-karat white gold. The Exchange $1,102.45 | shop.sarasotawex.com 3. THE FRASIER FUR HERITAGE COLLECTION An intoxicating blend of pine, cedarwood, and sandalwood come together to create the perfect fresh-cut forest fragrance. The Frasier Fur Collection includes candles, oils, reed diffusers, sachets, and more to make your house smell festive. Elysian Fields $15 - $95 | elysianfieldsonline.com 4. HANDMADE BOWTIE Kick off the New Year in style with one of Dapper Bowtique’s handcrafted bow ties and accessories! Founded by Travis Ray (aka Associate Managing Director at Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe), the company celebrates African culture through color, vibrant prints and unique designs. Sets include a matching pocket square.Dapper Bowtique Pricing Varies | dapperbowtique.com 5. NICOLE BAKTI WHITE COCKTAIL DRESS Get ready for a night on the town in this white, longsleeved, stretch sequin wrap-dress by Nicole Bakti. Foxy Lady Sarasota $476 | foxyladysarasota.com
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6. STARLIGHT CUTTING BOARD Display party hors d’oeuvres on this beautiful board by Miller’s Dutch Haus. Handmade of heartwood and sapwood from a black walnut tree. Treated with local bee oil. 1.25” thick solid wood. Available in three sizes. Miller’s Dutch Haus $132.00 for 16” | dutchhausfurniture.com 7. CAVIAR & CHAMPAGNE Celebrate 2022 in style with Mote Marine farms sturgeon caviar. Pair it with créme fraiche, blinis, and of course…champagne, like Perrier Jouet Belle Epoque! Morton’s Market Market Price | mortonsmarket.com
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philanthropy
you had me at
Ballet
AUDREY ROBBINS AND HARRY LEOPOLD PARTNER FOR THE ARTS
By Sylvia Whitman | Photo by Nancy Guth
Never underestimate the magnetic attraction of the arts. It drew Audrey Robbins and Harry Leopold separately to Sarasota. Years later, it helped bring them together as a couple—that and their competitive streak on the tennis court. And now it’s a bond in their six-year marriage as they attend performances and support arts organizations like The Sarasota Ballet.
Sarasota’s Out-of-Door Academy —largely because of the school’s wonderful K-12 program, she says, but also because of the broad local arts scene. Not that she had much time to enjoy it, between the kids and the job and the extra job she took on to keep her daughter on the competitive tennis circuit. Now and then, Robbins went to the ballet. The athleticism appealed to her, along with the music.
Robbins, who serves on the ballet’s board of trustees, drives this particular commitment. She came to her dance appreciation late. As a girl growing up in Denver, Colorado, she didn’t twirl around in a tutu. “I was a little more of a tomboy,” she says. A “great PE teacher” put her on the field in elementary school, and she competed in team sports through college and beyond, part of the pioneering generation of female athletes bolstered by the passage of Title IX in 1972.
In those busy years, Robbins read an article that talked about Iain Webb and The Sarasota Ballet’s astounding development as a regional company. “I was immediately attracted and started going, but again only once or twice a season.”
Fast forward to 1999, as Robbins weighed a move to Florida. Miami? Naples? A single mother with two young children, she accepted an offer to chair the math department at 5 4 SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021 2 SARASOTA SCENE | JULY/AUGUST 2021
She and Leopold lived 10 minutes and maybe one degree of separation apart. But it was only after Robbins retired from teaching that the two, both divorced, met online. “We’ve combined lives very nicely,” she says. Even the kids get along. They acknowledge their luck and the quality of their lives, which they attribute in part to the quality of the arts in town.
philanthropy
“I always say when I married Harry, I got season tickets and better seats,” Robbins says with a laugh. “We don’t take it for granted for a moment,” Leopold says. As a boy, Leopold didn’t twirl around in tights either. His family moved to the States from Holland in 1951. No teams for him, though. “When it came to sports, I was always chosen last,” he says. Robbins isn’t going to let him get away with all that selfdeprecation. “He is a great tennis player.” “I’m a tennis hacker,” he insists. “But I enjoy it. It’s a great workout.” Leopold also moved to Sarasota in 1999. An investment banker, he had retired at 55, dividing the year between Philadelphia and the Palm Beach area. As his two kids reached school age, he and his then-wife needed to choose one hometown, and Sarasota won. “Again, for the arts,” Leopold said. “For Sarasota Opera actually.”
All arts, he says, improve a community’s quality of life. Years back, a Philadelphia paper published an op-ed Leopold wrote about the importance of cultural organizations in attracting wealthy patrons, who in turn donate to other nonprofit groups, including social service agencies. He sees that in Sarasota, too, as people with means give widely through the Community Foundation of Sarasota and other philanthropies. So, how did The Sarasota Ballet win a special place in his heart? “Well, that’s easy,” he says. “Miss Audrey had tickets, and I followed her over. I was not a huge enjoyer of ballet, but I’ve gotten to love it.” “That’s not entirely true,” she says. “You had tickets.” “Did I have tickets?” “Yes. And you knew Iain [Webb, director of The Sarasota Ballet].” DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE 55 JULY/AUGUST JULY/AUGUST 2021 2021 || SARASOTA SARASOTA SCENE SCENE 33
philanthropy
“we know the dancers; they know us. we know the staff. as a board member, i’m really honored to be so closely tied in to what goes on there.” —Audrey Robbins Leopold laughs and clarifies, “Only recently have I gotten to really love the experience of watching it. You have dance and music at the same time. And the gracefulness of the dancers, the quality of the dancers, is just wonderful. I’m secretly—don’t tell Audrey—I’m secretly in love with a few of the dancers.” He and Robbins spar playfully. “I’m sure they’re interested in me as well,” Leopold says. “They’re in their early 20s, and I’m 78.” APPLAUSE FOR THE OFF-STAGE PERFORMANCES Svelte ballerinas aside, Robbins and Leopold also laud The Sarasota Ballet’s many extracurricular activities, such as Dance—The Next Generation (DNG). This program enrolls “at risk” third graders and involves them dance and enrichment activities through the end of high school. Robbins remember the importance of arts in her own education—and in her working life as an educator. Leopold’s daughter now teaches in local schools. Arts give students “a moment to breathe,” says Robbins. “Not everybody is great all day in what they do and in school particularly.” Most DNG kids won’t become dancers, but the afternoon program “gives them the structure and the camaraderie and the fellowship that they may not have in their everyday lives.” The Sarasota Ballet reaches into the community with smaller initiatives as well. In the depths of the pandemic one of the dancers started teaching Pilates on Zoom—to dancers, patrons, friends, and eventually anyone with access to the Web. “The arts here are so inclusive in so many ways,” says Robbins. “It’s just not snobby.” There’s a family feel to The Sarasota Ballet, she adds. “We know the dancers; they know us. We know the staff. As a board member, I’m really honored to be so closely tied in to what goes on there.”
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Dancers live in Sarasota. They take classes, working toward college degrees. They volunteer. Leopold was thrilled to spot a mention in a Herald-Tribune op-ed about a member of The Sarasota Ballet tutoring a previously homeless young man at Second Heart Homes as he studied to earn his GED. Leopold leaves the artistic ambitions to Webb and company. “I can’t imagine them being better than they are.” He’d like to have an impact on people who have never been to the ballet. He and Robbins sprinkle invitations among their friends and aim to extend those to local kids now that the pandemic seems to be loosening its grip. They’ve been involved with a national nonprofit, Tickets for Kids, and would like to see a similar program here that offers seats (and logistical support in getting to the theater) to kids who might otherwise never have the opportunity to see a play or a concert or a ballet. Leopold and Robbins also see room for The Sarasota Ballet to grow its adult audience. “There are people who come down here, and they’re blown away by how good the ballet is,” says Robbins. “They’ve been in New York and seen other regional ballets. We’re biased, but I hear from others that they’re really impressed.” Yet so many generous arts lovers in town just haven’t given dance a chance. “Before I started to go, I convinced myself that I wouldn’t like it,” Leopold says. “Once you’ve been a few times, you end up loving it, but a lot of people haven’t taken that first step.”
FO R M O R E IN FO R M AT IO N
about The Sarasota Ballet, please visit www.sarasotaballet.org or call 941.359.0099
DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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941.359.0099 SarasotaBallet.org 17 - 18 December | Van Wezel
GISELLE
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THE FUTURE, STARRING
THE PLAYERS EYES EXPANDING SOUTHWEST FLORIDA’S ‘CULTURAL COAST’ Community theatre is designed to inspire creativity and engage an entire population. It encourages participation in the performing arts that sets the stage for the future. It’s a grassroots initiative The Players Centre for Performing Arts has championed across the Suncoast since its inception nearly a century ago – and that mission continues to live on. Community theatre, locally built with volunteers from actors to ticket takers, has created what’s now a hallmark attraction for thousands of patrons near and far flocking yearly to the Sarasota-Manatee area for high-quality entertainment.
You That partnership further promotes thought-provoking creativity regionwide through donations to the Center Stage Capital Campaign. The Players Centre recently announced its 92nd season of shows with six indoor performances, beginning in October with [title of show]. That series is only possible through the active involvement of local volunteers – ushers, actors, stage crew and donors – who shape the area’s arts and culture productions. Staging the region’s future starts in the community and The Players Centre is excited to lead the way.
Scan here to donate to The Players Centre’s “Center Stage” Capital Campaign.
That remains the signature purpose of The Players Centre as the organization looks to spotlight Lakewood Ranch, which was recently named the nation’s best-selling community in a midyear survey by real estate consulting firm RCLCO. The community theatre will build a two-stage, multi-use facility in the Waterside Place development, providing easy access to impactful shows, as well as an extension of The Players Studio’s longstanding programs offered for all ages. The Players Centre, temporarily located in its new 152-seat performance space known as “Studio 1130” in The Crossings at Siesta Key, aims to achieve this goal through its ongoing Center Stage Capital Campaign – the fundraising driver to raise $26.5 million and stage shows by 2025 in Lakewood Ranch. But it’s not an initiative strictly beneficial to The Players Centre. The community is a stakeholder in molding what’s now a more than $340 million nonprofit arts and culture industry on the Suncoast that impacts local families, businesses and education.
Performance Venue & Box Office 3501 S. Tamiami Trail, Ste. 1130 Sarasota, FL 34239
theplayers.org
Studio & Mailing 1400 Blvd. of the Arts, Ste. 200 Sarasota, FL 34236
philanthropy
healthier A
COMMUNITY THE CARING LEGACY OF J. ROBERT AND MARY JANE DONNELLY By Carol Brzozowski
When J. Robert and Mary Jane Donnelly moved to Nokomis, Florida in 1987 from Republic, Michigan, they fell in love with their new home and the many possibilities to engage their community on a deeper level. “They had a lovely home on the water, and they really enjoyed interacting with the community, boating and being involved,” says Chip Gaylor, an attorney with Muirhead, Gaylor, Steves & Waskom, LLP who serves as an advisor for the late couple’s fund along with Gaylor’s father, Bill, who had been a close friend of the Donnellys. So much did the Donnellys admire the area that after Mary Jane’s death on Feb. 10, 2018, which followed J. Robert’s passing on September 26, 2005, the J. Robert Donnelly and Mary Jane Donnelly Charitable Fund was established at the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. Today, their philanthropic legacy continues, benefiting the causes and community they were so fond of.
Doctor degree from Ohio State University’s law school and had a successful career as an attorney in Dayton, Ohio. Mary Jane—who was known as “M.J.”— worked with her family’s tire manufacturing company. While the couple did not have any children, one of the causes they cared for was education, Gaylor notes. Also avid travelers, the Donnellys were committed to environmental conservation and animal welfare, which their fund continues to support today. In less than five years, this support has translated into some 20 grants totaling more than $400,000.
Robert Donnelly graduated from the University of Connecticut in 1941 and went on to serve in the U.S. Army Air Forces from 1941 to 1946. Soon after in 1950, he earned his Juris
From St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to the Arthritis Foundation, the Donnellys’ charitable giving has touched more than five local healthcare organizations, but no more
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INSPIRING HOPE THROUGH HEALTHCARE SERVICES In addition to animals, environment, and education, the legacy of J. Robert and Mary Jane Donnelly has centered on health and healthcare services, particularly those organizations helping individuals with cancer, arthritis, Parkinson’s Disease, and macular degeneration, a condition with which Mary herself suffered from during her lifetime.
philanthropy than so than Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation. Recently, the fund donated $100,000 to the Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation and named the third-floor staff lounge in the Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute’s Oncology Tower. “The vision for the Cancer Institute was rooted in the belief that no one should have to leave home to receive comprehensive cancer care,” Ticia Mahler, director of communications for the Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, points out. The new Oncology Tower is a state-of-the-art facility that brings inpatient and surgical cancer care services together under one roof on SMH-Sarasota’s main campus, she adds. “Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s Leading with Care campaign has helped SMH realize its vision through generous gifts such as the one from the J. Robert Donnelly and Mary Jane Donnelly Charitable Fund,” says Mahler. “Supporting the third-floor staff lounge is an acknowledgement of the incredible care the cancer team provides.”
“The vision for the Cancer Institute was
Mahler notes the lounge is a large, modern and comfortable space where hospital staff can retreat to relax and recharge during work breaks, something Gaylor says would have resonated with the Donnellys.
rooted in the belief that
“We know how hard healthcare workers work, what their jobs are and what they’ve taken on and most recently dealing with cancer patients,” says Gaylor of the healthcare staff at Sarasota Memorial Hospital.
leave home to receive
The lounge “gives them a nice respite for the type of work that they’re doing,” he adds.
cancer care.”
“We are so grateful for the lasting generosity of the Donnellys, ” says Mahler. “Together we are helping bring hope home for cancer patients and their families.”
— Ticia Mahler
no one should have to comprehensive
ENCOMPASSING HEARTS: TOTAL WELLBEING A hallmark of the Donnellys’ philanthropic spirit lies in the diversity of causes it seeks to strengthen. The Donnellys’ legacy giving is supportive of organizations that focus on human needs and ways to alleviate personal challenges of the individuals and families who will ultimately benefit from the support. For example, the J. Robert Donnelly and Mary Jane Donnelly Charitable Fund recently provided a $10,000 grant to the Combat Wounded Veteran Challenge fishing challenge hosted by the Sarasota Yacht Club, an event which drew 20 veterans from around the country. DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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ON STAGE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
philanthropy
“That’s the power of legacy giving—depending on someone’s interests, there are many options to
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express their philanthropy.” — Chip Gaylor
Gaylor shared that cognitive studies are conducted on the participants before and after each challenge to help further medical, physiological, biomedical and pathological sciences knowledge associated with their injuries. Data collected on the Combat Wounded Veteran Challenge expeditions is added to a collection of case studies conducted with the organization’s medical partners, leading to breakthrough gains in the fields of traumatic brain injuries, post-traumatic stress, orthotics, and prosthetics. Robert and Mary Jane Donnelly’s definition of well-being also extended to animals, and their philanthropic efforts have reflected that. “They were conservationists and very concerned about animal welfare, so we’ve supported environmental issues such as the World Wildlife Fund and the National Audubon Society,” says Gaylor. Locally, the fund has also enhanced red tide research at Mote Marine Laboratory. Gaylor notes that Robert and Mary Jane Donnelly also were “huge” supporters of Ohio State University and the University of Connecticut, a driving factor in their philanthropic legacies. Robert served as captain for the University of Connecticut’s football and basketball teams, and the J. Robert Donnelly Husky Heritage Sports Museum bears his name and documents and celebrates the university’s intercollegiate athletics. Gaylor says with the Donnellys’ fund being relatively new, there are plenty of opportunities to build upon the efforts – and momentum for change – it has funded to date through the Community Foundation. “We will be making additional grants in the future,” he says. “That’s the power of legacy giving – depending on someone’s interests, there are many options to express their philanthropy.”
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Where YOU belong The Larry & Mary Greenspon Family Campus for Jewish Life will be a gathering place for the entire Sarasota-Manatee community to enjoy. Modern spaces for meetings and special events; programs that educate, entertain and inspire; over 16 acres for day camp, aquatics and tennis — this is the place WHERE YOU BELONG. To learn how you can get involved in our reimagined campus, please visit JFEDSRQ.org/ProudStrong.
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The Florida Center for Early Childhood supports the healthy development of young children especially those with delays, disabilities, and mental health challenges. Give today and make YOUR impact in the life of a child.
a
Dog
makes all the By Leslie Rowe As a puppy, Micky was always happy, wiggling and wagging from head to tail. Like most pups, heBy was excitedBrzozowski by all the new things Carol he encountered every day. But, unlike most, Micky was born for a greater purpose. He was born as a Southeastern Guide Dogs puppy, trained from birth to become a guide dog for someone with vision loss. Micky’s education started at just two days old, when friendly humans stroked and tickled him to grow his bond with humans. It continued in Puppy Preschool, where staff and volunteers exposed him to sights, smells, sounds, colors, objects, and textures to grow his curiosity and expand his confidence. He spent over a year with his volunteer puppy raiser working on house manners, basic skills, and real-world experiences to prepare him for a working career. He was a joyful student, and as soon as he put on his coat, Micky knew exactly what to do. His raiser, Amy Francis-Bacon, shares, “He is ridiculously smart. He’d wake up and say, ‘Let’s do this!’” DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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Eagerness for adventure and a willingness to learn served Micky well when he attended Canine University on the Southeastern Guide Dog campus. Here, he went through advanced skills training with a certified guide dog instructor to prepare him for his destiny: to become a guide dog for someone who needed him most. That someone was a teenager named Valerie. At ten months old, Valerie was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Doctors’ visits, brain surgery, and chemotherapy stretched into 18 months after the tumor grew back. Valerie’s mother, Celeste, became little Valerie’s chief advocate. While raising a family of four daughters, Celeste and her husband Craig took on the challenges of caring for a seriously ill child. At five years old, Valerie was accepted for treatment at St. Jude’s, which meant occasional trips to Memphis, Tenn., as well as radiation treatments. Besides fighting to beat cancer, Valerie was growing up legally blind. 66
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“They did the surgery, and during that, they mistakenly cut her optic nerve and damaged her optic chiasm,” explains Celeste. “She had perfect vision at ten months old. Now she has no light perception in her left eye and no peripheral vision in her right eye. Over time, her vision has stabilized, but until she was seven years old, she didn’t realize her field of vision was limited, and other people could see more than she can.” “At the hospital, I would bump into poles,” explains Valerie, now a teenager. “When I was out in public, outside the house, I was hitting a lot of stuff.” Throughout the challenges, Celeste and Craig were determined to give Valerie and her three older sisters a life filled with rich experiences. The family settled in Sarasota, Florida after living in Gainesville and spending four years in Ecuador as missionaries. They bought a home on two acres, where they established a working plant nursery, fruit farm, and honey bee apiary. Celeste, an expert in rare fruit
and bananas, taught her daughters how to care for their rare tropical fruit trees and edible landscaping. As Celeste continued to advocate for Valerie, Valerie learned to advocate for herself. That’s when she started asking her parents for a guide dog. It began in 2012 when she was seven years old and visited Southeastern Guide Dogs on a puppy-hugging field trip with the Division of Blind Services. The quest continued when Valerie met young Millie, first in Bradenton and again at Camp Sunshine in Maine. Millie had the same kind of brain tumor, and Valerie heard about Millie’s dog, Miracles, a Kids Companion Dog and a gift from Southeastern Guide Dogs.
“My mom doesn’t worry as much. I always have someone with me.” — Valerie
However, there was one problem: Celeste was terrified of dogs. And besides, as she explained to her daughter, she was allergic. Clearly, dogs were not welcome in their home. The last straw came when Celeste and Valerie ran into a group of instructors working with guide-dogs-to-be at the UTC Mall. “Valerie had her white cane,” Celeste recalls. “Marisa, the instructor, took so much time to talk to me. I had looked into Southeastern Guide Dogs once, and they said the age was 18, but Marisa knew the age limit was changing and encouraged us to please reach out to Southeastern Guide Dogs again.”
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With pressure from Valerie, Celeste made the phone call just when Southeastern Guide Dogs had launched a new Guide Dog Camp for visually impaired teens and their parents. This two-day, overnight experience was designed as a hands-on introduction, helping families understand what having a guide dog can mean. Reluctantly, Celeste signed up.
adult class, Celeste came along, enjoying her own private dorm room next door to Valerie’s.
“My mom wanted me to go so that she could prove to me that a guide dog would be too much work,” Valerie says.
Now 17, the inseparable Valerie and Micky share secrets and adventures. Together they’ve shared doctor’s appointments, shopped at malls and grocery stores, enjoyed parks and trails, dined in restaurants, played in pools, and even completed a summer internship at Southeastern Guide Dogs.
Celeste concurs. “I agreed to the camp because I thought we would go, and she would see that big dogs are scary to be around.” Luckily for Valerie, the opposite happened. “The camp was literally life-changing,” Celeste continues. “I’m convinced these aren’t just dogs. These are some other animals that you’re passing off as dogs.” The instant they returned home from Guide Dog Camp, they filled out a guide dog application. Just a few months later, in August 2019, Valerie attended Guide Dog Class 281. Since she was only 15-years-old and participated in the 68
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Valerie was paired with the lovable, cuddly, playful, lifechanging Micky. The Micky whose tail never stops wagging, especially when he’s with Valerie. Micky’s infectious joy surrounds Valerie, whether she’s having a good day or not.
And Celeste? She’s still very much involved as she coaches Valerie on how to advocate for herself. After all, her youngest child will be on her own one day, and that day isn’t so far away. Knowing Micky is there makes all the difference. “My mom doesn’t worry as much,” Valerie says simply. “I always have someone with me.” Learn more about Southeastern Guide Dogs at www.GuideDogs.org.
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7700
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increasing STEM access for South County Sarasota
At State College of Florida’s Venice Campus By Jamie M. Smith
SCF Venice is a beautiful 100-acre campus surrounded by nature and is the only college campus within miles for local high school students and older adults looking to continue their education. Nestled in what looks like a forest and state park setting, it’s no wonder most don’t realize the campus is present except for the illuminated SCF sign off US 41 or South Tamiami Trail. However, the recent addition of Wellen Park and CoolToday Park, the Spring Training home of the world champion Atlanta Braves, has certainly raised awareness of this well-kept secret. Opened in 1985, SCF Venice has since been expanding its programming to meet the needs of the community. SCF has added or expanded its degree, certificate and course offerings for nursing, manufacturing, honors, dual enrollment, and Gator Engineering at SCF. Most recently, a Collegiate School serving grades nine through 12 was added to the campus. Each of these programs includes a science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) component. To facilitate the courses and increase access for students to workforce degrees in Sarasota and Charlotte counties, the SCF Foundation is raising funds to support a new
8,913-square-foot Science and Technology Building. This includes an additional 100 student stations in laboratory settings, a lecture auditorium and supporting lab facilities for chemistry, biology, physics and general purposes. These additions sound so simple, but the heart of the building is the equipment and technology, such as Bunsen burners, a biosafety cabinet, Sterilmatic sterilizer, Isotemp water bath, and a gravity convection incubator. Don’t worry, we won’t leave you guessing. A gravity convection incubator uses airflow to evenly heat cell cultures and other experiments. Similarly, the Isotemp water bath uses water flow to heat cell cultures. And the biosafety cabinet provides a safe, sterile, and ventilated work area, and when used in the field, is utilized to handle dangerous pathogens. These very tools were used by biotechnology students at SCF Bradenton who discovered and documented an antibiotic-producing bacteria that was published in the GenBank database, which is administered by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). It’s also in these labs that various students discover that they are meant to be nurses, lab managers, engineers or chemists.
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Overall, the Science and Technology Building will increase the number of courses available to south county SCF students seeking STEM degrees or needing electives while enhancing their overall academic experience with hands-on training. SCF has also partnered with various employers to provide internships to SCF students furthering their experiential learning opportunities.
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Once built, the building will impact every student who attends SCF Venice and create a local incubator of STEM students who are ready to serve the region’s workforce or transfer to 4-year universities. To learn more about the Science and Technology Building at SCF Venice and to support SCF students, contact SCF Foundation Executive Director Cassandra Holmes at 941-752-5654 or HolmesC@SCF.edu.
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pets people keeping
and their
together
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“Many MOW Sarasota clients are
By Carol Brzozowski
John Sypien, a 62-year-old Sarasota resident, is on permanent disability. His dog Bacardi, a pit bull, serves as a support dog and a companion. “I wouldn’t be able to survive without my dog,” says Sypien. But Sypien is unable to travel to get Bacardi food and medical care.
“All the shows are heartwarmin pet owners would otherwise and very who positive which we need sacrifice their nutrition in this era ofown Covid, to get by us ou sharing ofand theirthe meal with of theportions doldrums darknes their hungry and to help bringpets.” us out and ge —Marjorie Broughton us socializing once more and connecting with other people.” —Richard Hopkins
Fortunately, a partnership of caring organizations in Sarasota County is assisting Sypien and others who lack the mobility or funds to feed and care for their animal companions. Such programs are a win-win-win for the community. Beloved pets get to stay with their humans, everyone enjoys greater nutrition and well-being, and area shelters are less likely to become a revolving door, enabling these organizations to serve more animals and families. HELPING ANIMALS HELPS HUMANS The PetLOVE Program from Meals on Wheels (MOW) of Sarasota, for example, makes it possible for individuals such as Sypien to provide their pets with a healthy diet. Dry dog food, cat food, and cat litter are delivered the third week of each month. The program assists nearly 150 dogs and cats monthly. “Many MOW Sarasota clients are pet owners who would otherwise sacrifice their own nutrition by sharing portions of their meal with their hungry pets,” says Marjorie Broughton, MOW of Sarasota executive director. “This partnership allows us to share vital resources in order to meet our mission’s needs: caring for people who have pets and need a little extra help providing for them.” MOW of Sarasota partners with the Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC), which provides veterinary care and vaccinations in its clinic. HSSC also runs its own Pet Pantry program.
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“Surrendering a pet to an animal shelter like HSSC is a painful decision for people. We want to be a last resort.” —Ann Gonce “The Humane Society of Sarasota County offers a variety of services through our Pet Resource Hub that are intended to keep beloved family pets in their home with the people who love them,” says HSSC executive director Anna Gonce.
programs like PetLOVE,” notes Broughton. “Adding the element of pet care—including exam, vaccination and dental care as well as pet spaying and neutering—was a natural progression to simply feeding the cats and dogs.”
“Surrendering a pet to an animal shelter like HSSC is a painful decision for people. We want to be a last resort,” she says. “We do not want the cost of food to be the determining factor, especially when our community is so generous and giving. Through our Pet Pantry Program, we feed nearly 300 cats and dogs monthly and are continually growing the program to serve even more families and their four-legged friends.”
Broughton says it’s undisputable that animals have always had a positive impact on their owners’ lives.
HSSC’s Pet Pantry provides free pet food for Sarasota County residents needing temporary assistance feeding their pets during difficult times. An average of 100 pounds of pet food is distributed weekly 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesdays outside the HSSC Adoption Center at the Pet Resource Hub. Recipients—who must show a current photo ID and proof of Sarasota County residence and government assistance— are limited to one five-pound bag or seven cans of food weekly. Proof of spay/neuter for the recipient’s animal is required. HSSC provides needed information on low-cost spay/neuter programs. FIGHTING ISOLATION “Knowing that isolated seniors with pets are 36 percent less likely to report loneliness and have 21 percent fewer doctor visits, Meals on Wheels of Sarasota is a strong supporter of 76
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“Current studies suggest that four-legged friends are a true health benefit for both the elderly and the disabled, helping them live longer, healthier and happier lives,” she says. “Pets encourage more active, more energetic lifestyles, helping seniors and those who are disabled establish more active routines and encouraging them to do things they might not normally do such as getting outside, feeding, grooming, or playing with their pet.” Studies show pet owners have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels than non-pet owners, helping to reduce heart disease risk and the frequency of doctor visits, Broughton notes. Other studies suggest pet owners have a better chance for long-term survival after a coronary event than nonpet owners, says Broughton, noting that a Journal of the American Geriatrics Society article suggests that caring for a cat or dog helps people overcome depression or loneliness,. “Animal-assisted therapy has shown to help patients decrease anxiety levels. Overall, pets have a positive
effect on their companions who benefit health-wise from their very presence,” she says. “Whether facing loss of a loved one, isolation, lack of interaction with others, or inability to get out, disabled citizens or elderly clients with pets have someone else to care for and other things than themselves to think about.” The mere presence of a pet provides camaraderie plus unconditional love and affection to those who are otherwise isolated, Broughton says, adding 25 percent of Americans over age 65 are considered “senior orphans.” Pets also bring an increased sense of safety. PARTNERS IN CARING The Pet Pantry Program at HSSC is financed through contributions from local community and business partners. Donations of unopened dry or wet dog and cat food can be dropped off at HSSC’s Pet Resource Hub 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturdays. The local PetLOVE program is underwritten by grants from Meals on Wheels America and locally through The Mary Scharf Charitable Fund at the Community Foundation of Sarasota County and other anonymous foundations. MOW accepts donations of cash to purchase pet food, collars, leashes, crates, or funds to underwrite the cost of veterinary care. Southwest Florida Veterinary Services also donates services and supplies to the program. For area residents like Sypien, the program enables him to care for his dog who in turn cares for Sypien each day. “The program is wonderful,” he says. “It’s a real blessing.” Learn more at mealsonwheelsofsarasota.org/ mowpetlove.html and hssc.org/ pet-resource-hub/pet-foodassistance
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Reimagining a Classic at Asolo Rep
By Ryan G. Van Cleave Now that patrons are feeling more comfortable with COVID-19 safety protocols in place, people are eager to return to the pleasures of live theatre. Asolo Rep is ready to deliver with a 2021-2022 season that is a welcome reclamation of American identity. Looking at the lineup of shows, it’s highlight after highlight: the premiere of the new musical Knoxville from the same writing team that created Ragtime; the raucous outbreakcomedy about vaccinations and the anti-vax movement, Eureka Day, which was created by a witty New College graduate; and there’s Hood, a musical about the world’s sexiest thief and the realization that not every damsel needs rescuing. But no season is fully complete without 78
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a new take on a beloved classic, and to fill that space this season is Thornton Wilder’s Our Town, which won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1938. Producing Artistic Director Michael Donald Edwards had been thinking about including Our Town in the Asolo Rep lineup since before the pandemic. When he brought it up post-pandemic, people responded quite positively from the start. It makes sense, since Wilder is evergreen—always relevant, always in fashion. After all, Our Town isn’t a dramatic piece of poetry. It’s not opera. And though Wilder was a masterful novelist—he won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1927 and the National
“Wilder wants the emphasis on the people and what they’re seeing—not on scener y, not on any thing conventional to do with the theatre.” —Michael Donald Edwards
Book Award for a novel in 1968—he specifically chose theatre as the medium for this story. “He wants it to occur in a theatre,” Edwards explains, “where we all vibe in the room together with the story being told. Wilder wants the emphasis on the people and what they’re seeing—not on scenery, not on anything conventional to do with the theatre. Instead, he wants an empty theatre, a space that takes everything out that is unnecessary, so that you have a charged experience of being in this room together.” It’s the perfect place for us all to come back to, because when we actually get to see it (January 14 – March 26, 2022, with previews January 12 – 13), it’ll be the first time in two years that we’ve gathered to see a live play. “We have achingly missed it,” Edwards adds.
For years, Edwards has tried to land West Coast director Desdemona Chiang, but the schedules never quite worked out. Until now. “She has a brilliant mind, and she responded to the idea.” Asolo Rep is known for finding the best artists available and providing them a supportive environment to do their very best work. Chiang is creating her own fresh vision for the story. “Grover’s Corners is set up as a small, kind of mundane town, and the play talks about how it’s uninteresting and unremarkable,” Chiang says. “Yet, at the end of the play, we dive into the issues of humanity and the universe and life and death. I think that’s why it’s so poignant now, coming out of the pandemic. It reminds us not to take DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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our lives for granted. The everyday, the mundane—getting up for breakfast, paying the milkman—this is our life. That’s what life actually is. To overlook the small moments in search of something ambitiously larger means you’re actually missing out on your life. And that can be a hard reckoning.” Some people might consider Our Town to be a sleepy nostalgia play, but Chiang disagrees. “It’s actually gutsy and very pointed. That’s the production I’m chasing. It should be a punch in the gut, and that’s what I want to deliver.” Chiang is excited to be in Florida for Christmas and work with the Asolo Rep for the first time. But she’s even more eager to transform this classic into something potent that hits audiences in just the right ways. “Theatre is meant as a vehicle of communication, and that’s about messaging. A play, for me, is successful if I’m changed afterwards and I’m activated to do something.” What does she hope to activate with her interpretation of Our Town? “When you think about the times Our Town is produced, it tends to be after moments of great trauma. After 9/11, the play was done all over. I think it sometimes takes that kind of great disruption to remind us not to waste what we have or take it for granted.”
“Theatre is meant as a vehicle of communication, and that’s about messaging. A play, for me, is successful if I’m changed afterwards and I’m activated to do something.” —Desdemona Chiang
Edwards echoes that idea, saying, “If we race through everything and feel like we’re on this very tight schedule and agenda, we fail to actually notice everything that’s important about life until it’s too late. It seemed to be a very important idea to be reminded of this again.” Edwards notes that all the arts organizations have agreed to rigorous health and safety protocols to keep live theatre safe. While Asolo Rep has done lots of outdoor and online events in the past two years, it doesn’t quite create the same level of connection between artists and audiences as in an actual theatre. “Ever since the first hunters staggered back off the plains and sat around the campfire to tell the story of the hunt, we’ve been doing versions of this for 10,000 years,” he says. “We still need to gather around the campfire and hear a great story because it’s such a profound human need. We don’t build community without it. We don’t develop empathy without it. We don’t develop our imaginations without it. We’ve got to have it.” With the new Asolo Rep season, once again, we do. For more information on Our Town at Asolo Rep, please visit www.asolorep.org or call 941.351.8000.
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Beacons of hope
Jay Solomon, Aviva President and CEO
Aviva Senior Living is Sarasota’s only single-site, notfor-profit rental community with a full continuum of care including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing and rehabilitation. What is Aviva’s mission? Aviva was founded more than 25 years ago by Marie Brown, based on traditional values and a reverence for life. She believed in building a community that was stimulating, where seniors could live extraordinary lives. Since its founding in 1993, Aviva has lived up to this promise by creating an intimate, friendly atmosphere and pioneering wellness programs, life-enriching activities, and surrounding its residents with knowledgeable and skilled healthcare services. What is it like to live at Aviva? Nestled in The Meadows in the heart of Sarasota, Aviva offers a 27-acre, park-like campus complete with walking trails and a resort-style pool. Approximately 250 people call Aviva home, enjoying a full range of compassionate care coupled with intellectual opportunities and programs focusing on wellness and the arts. 82
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Through the Benevolent Care Program, funds are made available to qualified residents who need financial assistance to remain at the place they call home, Aviva— honoring the founder’s dream of a just and benevolent community. How can the community help? During the pandemic, Aviva provided a safe haven for both residents and staff, thanks to a generous $1.2M of community support. We invite everyone to help us raise funds for benevolent care and ongoing needs at these signature events: Join us for Aviva’s signature brunch, “Eight Over 80” Sunday, March 13, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. at Michael’s On East honoring eight community members. Help us “Keep the Dream Alive” Sunday, May 15, 2022, by raising funds for Aviva’s Benevolent Care Program. Please join us to help Aviva Senior Living continue to fulfill a dream based on compassion and kindness.
(941) 377-0781 • www.avivaseniorlife.org
Beacons of hope
Ida Zito President, Board of Trustees
Opened in 2002 as a non-profit consignment shop supporting the Sarasota arts community, Designing Women Boutique will soon celebrate 20 years of philanthropy. Through the success of the store along with sponsorships and fundraising, DWB has given $8 million in grants and merchandise to over 100 community arts and human service organizations. DWB’s ability to provide these grants is made possible by their many event sponsors, numerous volunteer hours, generous monetary donations, and high-end merchandise donations. Notable non-profit organizations who have received DWB grants through the years include: All Faiths Food Bank, Arts & Cultural Alliance, Meals on Wheels, Face Autism, The Sarasota Ballet, Sarasota Youth Orchestra, Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, Easter Seals, Children First, Forty Carrots Family Center, Sarasota Opera, Circus Sarasota, Pines of Sarasota, Asolo Repertory Theatre, The Sarasota Opera, and many others. In 2018, DWB launched GroundWorks, an innovative program to channel the lucrative consignment market
for the benefit of other non-profit groups. This unique partnership with well-respected area organizations generates ongoing funds for educational advancement. GroundWorks celebrates its partnership with eight leading non-profits: Girls Inc., Ringling College of Art + Design, Arts Advocates, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, The Out of Door Academy, Asolo Rep, The Players Centre for Performing Arts, and The Roskamp Institute. GroundWorks has already exceeded initial expectations and has become one of Designing Women’s most successful ventures. Additionally, Designing Women offers successful concierge estate liquidation and downsizing services. Designing Women is proudly inducted into the Diamond Society of Asolo Rep, with over $750,000 in donations to their endowment program. Through millions of dollars of donations to worthwhile organizations, Designing Women continues to make a difference in Sarasota County. DWB is located at 1226 Nor th Tamiami Trail. For information, call 941-366-5293 or shop online at DesigningWomenSRQ.org.
(941) 366-5293 • www.designingwomensrq.org
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Beacons of hope
With the mission of “Changing lives through the power of work,” Goodwill Manasota provides job skills training and employment opportunities to people who have barriers to self-sufficiency. How does Goodwill Manasota achieve these goals? Many people are familiar with the Goodwill brand, which dates back to 1902 in Boston, founded by Rev. Edgar J. Helms, a Methodist minister and early social innovator. Yet people are often surprised to learn that Manasota Goodwill is a fully local nonprofit with a local board and leadership team. Much of our mission is supported via the sale of donated goods at multiple retail sites throughout the area. Those who donate or shop at Goodwill are helping support programs that benefit individuals with disabilities, veterans, and individuals getting back on their feet after serious life challenges. What are some notable programs? Our Supported JobsPlus program helps individuals with physical, psychiatric, and/or intellectual disabilities gain positive personal and workplace behaviors and skills while earning a paycheck through job opportunities at Goodwill. The program features workplace accommodations and access to job and life coaches. Our coaches work with individuals so that they can achieve their employment, family, and personal goals. Our program for American veterans and their families helps veterans re-acclimate to civilian life, as well as assisting them with employment and other services. We provide information, referral, and case management services and we assist with basic services for those veterans who are not seeking employment. Our Lutz Buddy Up Manasota program provides opportunities for veterans to enjoy camaraderie with other veterans. We have chapters of Lutz Buddy Up Manasota in Sarasota and in Venice. How can we help? You are invited to donate unwanted household goods at our drop-off locations, stop and shop at our retail locations, and visit us online at experiencegoodwill.org.
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(941) 355-2721 • experiencegoodwill.org
Beacons of hope
Since 1992, Harvest House has transformed lives and revitalized neighborhoods through supportive housing campuses and affordable rentals. Individuals who are ready to work towards independence as they overcome life’s challenges, can find a hand-up at Harvest House. What is your mission? Harvest House serves individuals who are experiencing homelessness and/or addiction through supportive housing, case management, affordable rentals, life-enrichment classes, and food security. We have programs uniquely designed for families, young adults ages 16-24, and adult men and women with a history of addiction and incarceration. Our mission is to champion hope and transform lives by revitalizing neighborhoods and providing service-enriched housing programs. In 2020, we served 1,071 individuals with supportive housing and community-based case management. That was an average of 383 people served every single day. Eighty-nine percent of clients exited to stable housing, and eighty-eight percent remained housed after one year.
Photo courtesy of Gulf Coast Community Foundation.
What is supportive housing? Supportive housing means that we don’t just offer a house or a safe place to sleep, but a home. Life-enrichment classes, empowering activities, wrap around case management services, and spaces of love and belonging are essential for client success. We are humans journeying with other humans through life, and we find it a privilege to be there for one another during pivotal moments. We believe people’s past mistakes or past traumas do not define who they are, but that they are creative, resourceful, and whole. What’s new on campus? With the introduction of a new Life-Enrichment Campus on the corner of 17th and Beneva in Sarasota, Harvest House is on the brink of a transformation. This building development will be the first infrastructure expansion that is exclusively focused on the wrap-around support services that are so crucial to client success. How can we learn more and participate? Please visit us online at: HarvestHouseCenters.org Facebook.com/harvesthousesrq Instagram.com/harvesthousesrq YouTube: Bit.ly/HarvestHouseYT
Photo by Susan Sidebottom
Photo by Susan Sidebottom
(941) 953-3154 • harvesthousecenters.org
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Beacons of hope
As Southwest Florida’s premiere blood bank, the SunCoast Blood Centers serves patients and leading hospitals and medical centers in Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte & DeSoto Counties. Live Here, Give Here, Save Here When you donate blood or platelets at SunCoast Blood Centers, your donations stay in our area. They help us impact thousands of lives locally, including cancer patients, trauma patients, surgical patients, and newborn patients. We are the exclusive blood products provider to Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Manatee Memorial Hospital, Doctors Hospital of Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, SMH-Venice, SMH-Jellison Cancer Institute, and others. Among the many individuals your donations have helped is Jaelen, a Cardinal Mooney High School baseball player, whose family had recently moved to Florida so that he could play baseball year-round. Unfortunately, Jaelen didn’t get the chance to start the season with his team. Driving to a friend’s house 86
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one evening, he was hit by a drunk driver. The initial outlook was bleak, but after 17 surgeries and 29 blood transfusions, Jaelen survived. His family is grateful to every donor whose selfless contribution helped save their son. Innovative Programs for Donors The SunCoast Blood Centers were the first in the nation to make blood and platelet donations even easier with a new, exclusive “Donate@Home” service—where we bring the donation center right to you! These smaller mobile units allow a personal and individualized donation experience right from the convenience of your driveway. We are also the only blood bank that offers complimentary COVID-19 antibody testing, which screens for the presence of antibodies whether from natural exposure or from a vaccine. This test normally costs $80 and we offer it without charge to our blood donors. To learn more about donating blood from home and free COVID-19 antibody testing, visit us at suncoastblood.org.
1-866-97-BLOOD • suncoastblood.org
Beacons of hope
Since 1973, Girls Inc. of Sarasota County has delivered programs that empower girls to grow to their full potential and make an impact on the world. How do you serve the community? Our mission is to inspire all girls to be STRONG, SMART, and BOLD. We achieve that through delivering research-based, interactive, and relevant programming focused on healthy living, academic support, enrichment, and life skills instruction. We provide afterschool programming and summer camp for girls ages 5 - 18 in Sarasota County. Additionally, we partner with Sarasota County Schools to provide group programming and case management services in the school setting. What is new and notable? Throughout the challenges of the last 18 months, we have continued to grow in many ways. For example, we launched a program for girls entering 8th grade called Eureka! It combines STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) with physical activity and personal development. Due to the lasting impacts of COVID-19, we were able to increase the amount of scholarship support to families so all girls are able to participate in our programs regardless of their ability to pay. Generous local foundations and supporters have made it possible for us to navigate these challenging financial times and continue our life-changing work. Our programs are improving the lives of girls in our community, and we know that our impact has been especially dramatic for our families in need. Recently we received an Impact 100 grant of $101,000 to renovate our entire gymnasium. You’re invited to learn more at GirlsIncSRQ.org. (941) 366-6646 • girlsincsrq.org
Beacons of hope
What sets you apart? HSSC is much more than “just a shelter.” Beyond essentials— food, water, housing—our programs provide exceptional care to animals before placing them in loving “furever” homes. We never set time limits: our animals have a home with us as long as they need it. We even support pet owners through pet food assistance, affordable veterinary care, and behavior resources. Our education programs teach children compassion and create a ripple effect for generations. What’s new? We completed our campus renovation and expansion this summer. Our 38,000ft2 facility is twice as large as our old shelter, and we anticipate completing 2,100 adoptions by the end of 2021. In February 2022, our 70th birthday, we will unveil more programs to serve pet owners in our community. We are the only animal welfare organization in Florida (and one of just seven in the nation) to have received the prestigious 4-star rating from Charity Navigator several years in a row. We are not affiliated with any other humane organization, local or national. Join us at hssc.org.
(941) 955-4131 • hssc.org
Children’s Guardian Fund helps children in foster and state care maintain a sense of stability amid unpredictable and traumatic circumstances. How do we help? When children are removed from their home for their protection and moved on short notice, they have little more than the clothes on their backs. With limited resources available through the state, many simple needs go unmet. We immediately provide beds and bedding, clothing, and other essentials. We also nurture a sense of normalcy by offering professional academic tutoring, sports or music fees, graduation and prom fees, bicycles, birthday gifts, summer camps, driver’s ed, and more. Join us at childrensguardianfund.org. 88
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(941) 504-9515 • childrensguardianfund.org
Beacons of hope
Celebrating its 60th anniversary, Loveland Center provides essential life skills programs to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them live their lives to the fullest. What sets your organization apart? Loveland Center is raising the bar as the region’s preeminent disability service provider aimed at providing top quality services. We promote national advocacy efforts to rewrite the narrative and shift the stigma surrounding individuals with disabilities to build a more inclusive and equitable community. Learn more by visiting LovelandCenter.org and following our popular TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram accounts @LovelandCenter. Join us by emailing philanthropy@lovelandcenter.org or calling (941) 221-1323. (941) 221-1323 • lovelandcenter.org
For 22 years, Samaritan Counseling has offered affordable mental health services for anxiety, depression, grief, family issues, stress, anger management, addiction, and substance abuse. Who do you serve? We serve all ages, from children to seniors, regardless of their ability to pay full fee. This year we will serve 2,400 clients through 15,000 counseling sessions at ten outpatient offices in Sarasota and Manatee Counties and remotely by phone or Zoom. We serve uninsured and under-insured clients on a sliding scale through our Client Assistance Program. Donations, grants, and funding from the community support our services. Visit samaritangulfcoast.com to learn more. (941) 926-2959 • samaritangulfcoast.com
Suncoast Charities for Children produces several fundraising events throughout the year to generate funding in support of five local non-profit agencies: The Haven - Children First - Venice Challenger Baseball – Loveland Center – The Florida Center for Early Childhood. These agencies provide programs and services to over 8,000 children, teens, and adults with special needs and their families. Annual grants are made by Suncoast Charities for Children to the Suncoast Foundation for capital improvements and repairs. Specific program and service grants, based on an annual needs assessment, are also made directly to these agencies. (941) 487-7904 • suncoastcharitiesforchildren.org
It’s a Wonderful Life SPOTLIGHT
Celebrating an Enduring Favorite by gus mollasis
This year marks the 75th anniversary of the classic Hollywood and holiday film, It’s a Wonderful Life. Jimmy Stewart, the film’s star, and director Frank Capra both came to recognize they were making something special. Capra went on to say in his memoir, The Name above the Title, that this was the film he always envisioned making when he first peered into the lens of a movie camera. Interestingly, it took time for film fans to recognize the magic of this iconic film. The movie’s star and director weren’t even sure that they wanted to make films after both returned from serving in World War II, where they had witnessed all the nightmarish horrors of man’s inhumanity. Yet thankfully, they soldiered on with their project. Released to a luke-warm box office back in late 90
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1946, It’s a Wonderful Life found its voice and audience because of a public domain loophole that allowed the film to literally be played on any channel at all hours of the night and day. And that’s just what countless station managers all across North America did back in the day—forking over a paltry sum to air the black and white film of a man named George Bailey and his search to fulfill his dreams in a placed called Bedford Falls. I happened on It’s a Wonderful Life and the plight of George Bailey when I was a young college student at home in Detroit, Michigan and tuned into Channel 9 out of Windsor, Ontario, late one night. From the first scene I took in—George saving his younger brother Harry’s life after he fell through the ice—the movie hooked me. Grabbed my attention and my heart. And after countless viewings, it has never let go.
Years later, at a showing of this wonderful film in Detroit, I met Karolyn Grimes, the actress who played the little girl Zuzu in the film. Her character delivers one of its most iconic lines: “Every time a bell rings…an angel gets its wings.” Zuzu, along with an angel named Clarence and a town full of people, helps the film’s protagonist, George Bailey, come to realize that he is in fact the richest man in town. It did not matter that all his big dreams did not come true. What mattered most was the tremendous impact he would have on all the people that made up his wonderful life. At the time, I was mourning the recent loss of my father—a real life George who never really left his small town called Detroit. Karolyn shared just how kind Jimmy Stewart had been when she was a little girl on the set playing Zuzu. “He was the best. So kind. So helpful. He was like a real-life father to me.” Karolyn and I admired Jimmy Stewart and what he stood for. I told her about meeting him on his front lawn on Roxbury Drive in Beverly Hills as he and his beloved wife Gloria were walking their cherished Golden Retrievers. Then our second meeting at his Lincoln Center Tribute in New York, when he and Gloria remembered that earlier day on his front lawn—prompted by a picture I showed them.
Our conversations helped me heal and realize that it is always a good time to count our blessings. Years later, we got to reminisce further when Karolyn called in to my At the Movies TV show. I mentioned my favorite scene is when George Bailey is at the bar and says, “I’m not a praying man... but if you can show me the way, I’m at the end of my rope.” She shared that this was Jimmy Stewart’s favorite scene too. Her own favorite was the scene of George at the bridge. She said, “It gets me every time—when he says, ‘I want to live again…I want to live again.’” Some may dismiss this enduring film as “Capra Corn,” but the great director himself shrugged that off, explaining that perhaps the movie shows, “not the way life is, but the way life ought to be.” In the end, all that really matters is the impact we have on those who come into our own wonderful lives. So this season, do yourself a favor. Gather with those you love. Family, friends, or the neighbor you’ve been too busy to visit. Put the phones down. Turn off all the machines except one—and together, reintroduce yourself to an old friend. A beloved friend who will entertain, engage, and enlighten you all in one sitting: It’s A Wonderful Life.
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Education MATTERS By Ryan G. Van Cleave
GIRLS INC. SAYS “EUREKA!” Since 1973, Girls Inc. of Sarasota County has been making a difference in the lives of young girls by inspiring them to be strong, smart, and bold. While the programs and offerings have changed over the years, the core mission to make measurable positive impact in the lives of girls is a constant. One of the ways they’ve stayed current is with increased STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) offerings. “STEM is all around us. It’s in every single facet of everything we do,” says Jessie Wingar, who has served as the STEM Coordinator of Girls Inc. of Sarasota County since 2019. Prior to that, she worked part-time there for many years. The National Science Foundation agrees with the value of STEM, stating, “In the 21st century, scientific and technological innovations have become increasingly important as we face the benefits and challenges of both globalization and knowledge-based economy. To succeed in this new information-based and highly technological society, students need to develop their capabilities in STEM to levels much beyond what was considered acceptable in the past.” 92
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Currently, Wingar runs G3 (Generation Giga Girls), a program for girls 14-17 that’s designed to build their skills in mathematics, critical thinking, and technology. Fundamentally, it’s about data analytics, which helps them understand the world of big data, think about social justice issues, and prepare them for college success. The latest offering, however, is the Eureka! Program which has been going for 20+ years nationally but is new to the Sarasota affiliate. Free to all participants, this 5-year program for girls entering eighth grade combines STEM, personal development, and sports education. COVID-19 got in the way of the initial planned launch, but they started virtually in December 2020 with a cohort of seven girls, and this past summer, the second cohort began with eight girls. “We wanted to keep things small on purpose,” Wingar says, since COVID-19 made things challenging. Future cohorts, though, might indeed grow larger. Through the school year, the cohorts have monthly meetings at the Girls Inc. site on Tuttle Avenue. In the first two summers, the members participate in a four-week summer camp at New College. “They’ve got such a great campus,” Wingar notes. “The kids were so excited to just be on a college campus. Exposing them to college experiences is one of the main goals of Eureka!” Since so many of the participants will be first-generation college students, acclimating them to that environment is a must.
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New College is supporting Eureka! participants through detailed scientific research, presentations with college professors and staff, hands-on engineering projects, and other exciting educational activities. They’re the ideal partner to help showcase the power of STEM careers and present the possibilities and opportunities that exist. In years three and four, students undertake quality professional internships that prepare them for the final year, which is all about college and career readiness. “We help them think about and develop personal, academic, and future life goals,” Wingar says. “We look at resumes and set up mock interviews. We help with college applications, too.” Wingar keeps things fresh by varying the focus of each meeting. With engineering, they walked to the Ringling Bridge, examined bridge structure, and talked about bridges in our community. For a session on transportation, they built solar cars and discussed how cities are planned. For terrestrial science, they discussed local fauna and animals. “My favorite subject is marine science—that’s where my background is,” Wingar says. At Coastal Carolina University, she was working on her master’s degree with the idea of getting a Ph.D. en route to becoming a shark expert. But she got interested in education and soon found herself following the path that got her working fulltime at Girls Inc. And thanks to
Eureka!, she was able to take students to New College where they were able to dissect sharks in the Pritzker Marine Biology Research Center, as well as go on a boat tour of Sarasota Bay and hike through the mangroves, thanks to a grant from the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program. “I’ve known some of these kids since they were in third grade. Seeing them work with sharks, which is the field I’ve always been interested in? It’s all come full circle. It’s very rewarding.” “My favorite part of Eureka! was dissecting sharks,” says Jacki, one of the Eureka! participants. “Someone should apply to Eureka because you get to discover yourself and explore new opportunities involving STEM.” President and CEO Angie Stringer adds that “the Eureka! Program is a life-changing program for our girls. We are so thankful to be able to offer this program at Girls Inc. of Sarasota County and look forward to seeing all their successes.” Only 28% of the STEM workforce is made up of women, however. With programs like Eureka! and committed educators like Wingar, that number is likely to change for the better.
F O R M O R E IN F O R M AT IO N
about Girls Inc. of Sarasota County, please visit www.girlsincsrq.org or call 941.366.6646.
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SARASOTA SCENE | DECEMBER 2021
Dabbert Gallery—Barbara Krupp
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DABBERT GALLERY 941.955.1315 / dabbertgallery.com A Visual Symphony of Art December 3 – January 3
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941.955.2787 / sarasotafineart.com Cultural Comeback Through December 31
SARASOTA ART MUSEUM 941.400.2478 / sarasotartmuseum.org David Budd, Motion Within Stillness Through March 20 Samo Davis, Happiness in ROYGBIV Through December 31
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941.753.7755 / southernatelier.org See Website for Classes & Studios TO SU B M IT YO U R EV EN T / EX H IB IT IO N F O R C O N S ID ER AT IO N , please send information to gina@scenesarasota.com
Help make higher education possible. Cassandra Holmes 941-752-5390 HolmesC@SCF.edu SCF-Foundation.org DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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VIAL OF TEARS
(Holiday House, October 2021) BY CRISTIN BISHARA
LITERARY Scene By Ryan G. Van Cleave
THREE NEW YOUNG ADULT NOVELS
VESPERTINE
(Margaret K. McElderry Books, October 2021)
BY MARGARET ROGERSON
Margaret Rogerson’s third novel, Vespertine, is the first half of a duology. The black and gray cover is what first appealed to me—so Halloweeny!— but the story has fine worldbuilding and a fast-paced adventure that will please young adults and adult readers. Here’s the story: Artemisia is training to be a Gray Sister. Yeah, it sounds a bit like Harry Potter here since we have a poor young kid who trains in magic. But that comparison disappears fast. Gray Sisters, after all, are nuns who cleanse the bodies of the deceased so their souls can pass on. If the dead aren’t handled properly, they come back as angry spirits who are eager to wreak havoc upon the living. Spirits can also be bound into objects to harness their power, but anyone who tries to use those relics risks being possessed if they’re not strong enough. Things go bonkers when an army of possessed soldiers march on the convent. Her only option to stop these unnatural enemies from destroying the only home she ever had is to use the magic of a saint’s relic that allows a spirit to share her body. And the banter between her and that spirit is fantastic, as is what follows in terms of the plot, which has plenty of secrets, dark magic, and betrayals. Wondering about the title (as I did)? In this world, a vespertine is a priestess trained to wield a relic. Clearly, religion and ecclesiastical elements are central to this story—it’s hard not to read old-world Catholicism here with more than a dash of Joan of Arc. In short, if readers want to skip the expected YA romance (none in these pages!) and instead enjoy a monster-filled coming-of-age story about some girls who kick butt, this might be the book.
Cristin Bishara’s second book, a YA novel entitled Vial of Tears, is being marketed as a “lush and dangerous Phoenician mythology-inspired fantasy.” In this story, a teen main character, Samira (Sam) lives in a busted-up trailer in Michigan with her sister Rami and their less-than-ideal mom. She’s the only adult they’ve got since Dad’s deceased, but Mom vanishes for days at a time. When they inherit Lebanese antiquities from their great-grandfather, Sam wants to pawn it all because someone’s got to do something about their poverty. And maybe a clay jug with some really old-looking coins can earn them some much-needed cash. Yet one of the artifacts is a cursed burial coin of a forgotten god, and when it’s touched, the incredibly cold coin magically transports both sisters into the underworld where they’re caught between the struggles of two manipulative gods. And there’s a prophecy, of course, which they may or may not be a part of. Ghouls, shapeshifters, and the original owner of that coin (a half-god) stand in the way of the girls getting what they want— escaping this dangerous land and returning home. All things considered, this book moves along nicely and the ending delivers, too, which is surprising in that so many fantasy novel endings underwhelm. The Author’s Note gives me confidence that this was wellresearched in terms of the mythology, which is always a plus. And the fact that the author shares this heritage herself as well as offers family stories and photos that inspired her (plus recipes, too)? Yes, please. This historical fantasy YA is absolutely solid and fresh enough to please even the most jaded of YA fantasy fans. Well done.
RYAN’S RATING:
RYAN’S RATING:
WWW.MARGARETROGERSON.COM
WWW.CRISTINBISHARA.COM
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JADE FIRE GOLD
(HarperTeen, October 2021) BY JUNE C.L. TAN
Whoever first said, “Don’t judge a book by its cover!” clearly doesn’t appreciate how I operate, because yet again, I literally picked this book up and expected great things BECAUSE of its striking cover. And I wasn’t disappointed. June C.L. Tan’s Jade Fire Gold is a debut YA book that’s inspired by Chinese mythology (it’s a Xianxia book) and features a slow-burn m/f romance. Ahn is a teen peasant girl who’d do anything to keep her grandmother safe—luckily, Ahn has extraordinary magic. And there’s Altan, the lost heir to the throne, and this guy is out for revenge. Plus, there’s an empire on the brink of war. A pretty good start to things, right?
The first part of the book is terrific. Ahn and Altan are such strong characters with clear motivation. Altan views Ahn as a pathway to reclaiming his rightful place on the throne. Ahn sees him as a way to finally uncover her own mysterious past and understand her magical powers (which matters since the world doesn’t look too kindly on those with magic). Did I mention that the worldbuilding is handled well from the start? Very few info-dumps, and the worldbuilding never got in the way of the action. I’ve seen ownvoices reviewers comment positively on the authenticity and quality of the setting, characters, and culture, and to my eye, it comes across quite well, too, But a few plot points feel a bit coincidental, and the promise of the book’s fairly original first third slides into a far more comfortable familiar mode from them on. Ultimately, the ending isn’t quite as strong as the rest of the book—too many handwaves and jump cuts, but that’s not uncommon in debut books. Sometimes writers just forget that readers find the details before, during, and after the climax to be delicious. And Tan is clearly a good writer who is capable of giving us luscious details, as we see at the story’s start. I’ll definitely keep an eye out for her next book.
RYAN’S RATING: WWW.JUNECLTAN.COM
Photo: Diane Broda
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Laughing MATTERS THE FINAL HAH HAH By Ryan G. Van Cleave | Illustrations by Darcy Kelly-Laviolette
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fter twenty-seven years of being the resident Sarasota Scene funny guy, I’m hanging up my clown shoes, rubber chicken, and exploding ink pen. “Why…” you might be asking, “…did you wait so long to do this?” Great question. Here are five answers in order of likelihood of truthfulness. 1. I’ve only been writing the humor column since Jan 2019. It just FEELS like twenty-seven years because, as you know, I like dog jokes. Who knew it meant the time would pass in dog years thanks to that? 2. Sarasota Scene is moving to an all-Morse Code format, and we all know what that does to a good knock-knock joke. 3. During a group dinner at Michael’s On East last week, the waiter asked if anyone wants dessert. Someone said, “No, we’re good.” Now I need to find new friends. 4. I’m pretty invested in an exciting new career—squirrel whisperer. 5. El Niño. I know, I know. You’re contemplating whether a GoFundMe campaign with a six-figure goal might be enough to keep
me around to rip off 80s comedians, steal from ancient joke books, and invent crazy stuff that never happened to any human who’s ever lived on planet Earth. That kind of payday is tempting, for sure. But it’s either keep writing the hah hahs or keep my lawn in order, and my HOA has made their preference abundantly clear in a series of five increasingly threatening notes taped to my front door. The good news is that if you’re desperate for a humorous pick-me-up, you have options. The UTC mall, for instance, where the people-watching is first rate. Like those exiting Fit2Run and sneaking over to Cinnabon. Or Tesla store shoppers who don’t realize that all of the plastic parts and tires on those cars are made from oil. Or—and this is beyond true—how the other day I saw someone outside the Apple store wearing a monocle unironically. You have other humor options, too. Like how Sarasota has a higher concentration of Zagat-rated restaurants than any other Florida city. Why’s that funny? It’s not. I just bet a buddy I could work that into my final humor column, so I’m now five smackeroonis richer. Booyah!
DECEMBER 2021 | SARASOTA SCENE
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arts&culture If you get desperate for laughs, you can always reread my old humor columns in your stash of Sarasota Scene magazines. Like a fine wine, the chuckles in those columns just get better with age. Or wait…maybe that was balsamic vinegar. Or maybe cast-iron skillets. (It’s certainly not US Presidents, but since I’ve avoided getting political in this column for sixty-three years, why start now? So, please ignore that previous non-joke.) I’ll wrap this baby up by sharing my absolute favorite, topnotch, can’t-fail, #1 joke that I don’t share with just anyone. But we’ve bonded over the years with yeti hunt stories, Patrick Stewart sightings, irate fan mail, and plagues of unicorns. Given that, how else could things end but with one last joke, right? What’s the best thing about Switzerland? I don’t know, but that flag is a big plus!
Stan Writesel & Baylee
Alan Gravley & Beau
While you’re falling out of your La-Z-Boy, I’ll be heading over to Michael’s on East to use that newly won cash to get me some Bourbon & Peach Cobbler Cheesecake. Yummy.
At the end of my humor columns, I typically invite readers to reach out to me for one or two ridiculous reasons that sometimes connect their own experiences with the theme of that month’s column. Not this time, folks. Keep your banana peel anecdotes, koala bear jokes, and cats-dressedlike-cowboys scenarios to yourselves. The show’s over. But if you can’t help yourself—humor is best when shared, I get it!—then please blast those whoppers to JeffBezos@ AmazonTopBanana.com with the subject line “11 Bizarre Steps to Be Better at Your Job (#8 Will SHOCK You!)”.
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