February 2012

CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY FOR 55 YEARS

Cool, Calm & Caring:

Dennis McGillicuddy

Arts & Culture Passionate People Social Scene

Toasting a Winner

Viking Culinary Center Maestro DeRenzi Celebrates

Artists in

Wonderland It’s Raining

FEB 2012 $3.95 U.S.

Restaurants

EMBRACE THE E

E

THE CONCESSION GOLF CLUB

Celebrate Your Next Event With Us

Whether you’re planning an upcoming holiday party, corporate event, intimate dinner or fairy tale wedding,The Concession Golf Club offers timeless sophistication enhanced by our private, picturesque location and award-winning cuisine. To schedule a private tour call 941-322-1922 or visit: www.TheConcession.com.

Waterfront & Estate Homes of Distinction

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Our Passionate Approach has Created Extraordinary Residences for Over 20 Years

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A World Class Jack Nicklaus Signature Course Homes from the $900,000’s to $4,000,000 Showcase Models from $1,995,000 to $3,450,000

The Lake Club A Tuscan-inspired, private club community of custom luxury homes at Lakewood Ranch Homes from the $800,000’s to $3,000,000

At The Forest, On The Waterfront, On Your Homesite Call today for an appointment with Roy

ROY DUPUIS Founder / Builder

Models Open Daily at The Concession 19110 Ganton Avenue, Bradenton, FL 34202

941.379.4405 www.AnchorBuilders.com CGC 040371

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• 18” Aluminum Alloy Wheels

• Bluetooth

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• Satellite Radio

COAST INFINITI Come And See The Dealership That Truly Is Different!

2124 Bee Ridge Road • Sarasota, FL 34239

941.924.1211 • coastinfiniti.com

Discover what the wind already knows. G Convertible. Open to Exhilaration.

The first time you touch the accelerator, you’ll know everything has changed. The intensity of the hard-charging, class-leading 325-hp engine is brought to life by exclusive VVEL® technology for a broader torque curve and invigorating acceleration.

In designing the G Convertible, Infiniti engineers were committed to maintaining the feel and handling of a coupe. Rigid body structure and dampening, along with independent front and multi-link rear suspension, allow for heightened responsiveness during cornering.

Dual Flow Path® shock absorbers make handling as agile as it is effortless.

The three-piece retractable hardtop was engineered to open and close in an unconventional clamshell manner to minimize bulk when folded, creating a slimmer, more appealing exterior look.

The interior of the G Convertible is designed for consummate comfort. Elegant materials flow from the door trim to behind the rear seats, giving the interior a progressive, modern look. The unique Silk Obi aluminum or optional Maple interior accents trim softly and gracefully flows under sunlight to create warm, flowing lines. Supple leather rewards your touch and polished accents provide a refined finish. The supportive, luxurious leather seats are both heated and air conditioned. Slide in, get comfortable, and depress the accelorator...then you’ll know you found the one.

coastinfiniti.com

For the benefit of

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County

March 5th & 6th ��Golf and mingle with two-time Heisman Trophy winner, Archie Griffin and a star-studded field of celebrity friends.

Named “Best New Private Course of 2006” by Golf Digest Magazine.

��The event will take place at The Concession Golf Club in Sarasota, FL. A world-class golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus in association with Tony Jacklin. ��100% of the proceeds will benefit The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County.

The Mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County is to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.

For dinner & Pairings Party tickets and more event information, please call:

(813) 817-9022 or visit concessioncharities.org

Pairings Party Join these celebrities at the Pairings Party, dinner, and live auction held at the elegant Concession Golf Club Monday evening, March 5. Plus, three-time Grammy-nominated and #1 Billboard Jazz Artist Ski Johnson will perform. Tickets are only $180.

JOIN THESE CELEBRITIES & MORE: KEITH BYARS ARCHIE GRIFFIN JIM JACKSON CLAVIN JOHNSON ROBERT SMITH SHAWN SPRINGS NDAMUKONG SUH SKI JOHNSON (Three-time Grammy-nominated and #1 Billboard Jazz Artist) Please check our website www.concessioncharities.org for the most current list of confirmed celebrities.

concessioncharities.org ďż˝ (813) 817-9022

contentsfeatures fortysix Dining & Entertainment February 2012

40

Volume 55 No. 2

Magnificent "Opera-tunities" Sarasota Opera's Maestro Victor DeRenzi Steven J. Smith. Photos by Cliff Roles.

44

Artists in Wonderland The Towles Court Arts District Ryan G. Van Cleave

46

Tasting A Winner Jim Butler's Viking Culinary Center Sue Cullen. Photos by Rob Villetto.

44

40

CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY FOR 55 YEARS

Cool, Calm & Caring:

Dennis McGillicuddy

Arts & Culture Passionate People Social Scene

Toasting a Winner

Viking Culinary Center Maestro DeRenzi Celebrates

Artists in

Wonderland It’s Raining

FEB 2012 $3.95 U.S.

Restaurants

Cover / Jim Butler’s Viking Culinary Center is dining, entertainment and education at its best. Cover photo by Rob Villetto, Villetto Photography & Design.

Apple brought you the iPhone and iPad

Sarasota Memorial brings you the iSuite.

We’ve powered up the next generation in surgery… operating rooms that are intelligent, interactive and fully integrated. Sarasota Memorial’s new iSuite is the most technologically advanced suite of operating rooms in the region. A new, state-of-the-art surgery center houses our iSuite, four ORs with multiple high-definition cameras and digital monitors, interlinked with voice-activated surgical equipment and room controls… and astounding capabilities, from real-time electronic medical records to two-way videoconferencing and beyond. You know the only way to impress brilliant surgeons?

Exceed their expectations. Wow them. (A little something we learned from our friends at Apple.)

(941) 917-9000 ı smh.com

contents 100

93

56

66

62

Arts & Culture 32

Culture Matters

Social 62

66

The Visual Arts Featured Artists Barbara L. Harrison and Janice Ketley

96 97

The Ringling Art Experience Spotlighting Ringling College of Art & Design

Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

Giving 56

Curtain Call

Honor, Brains & A Big Heart Dan Paradies

Steven J. Smith Reviews Local Theatre

Steven J. Smith

Performing Arts Calendar

80

Stories of Joy Community Philanthropy with Joy Weston

Get your tickets to the best performances in town

Dining

Health

93

102 104

It's Raining Restaurants – Hallelujah!

Local Food & Beverage Pros Share Delectible Favorites with Susan Cullen

Education 58

Education Matters Amazing Minds and Intellectual Happenings by Ryan G. Van Cleave

Health Matters Pet Health

Locally 106

Community News, Appointments and Awards

20 24 38 39 68 70

JFCS Gala "Le Grand Cabaret" Be Scene Calendar of Events RCLA Platinum Dinner Perlman and Pearls Gala YMCA VIP Dinner Behind the Scene Debbi Benedict Gives the Latest Society Scoop

92

Chivas James’s Holiday White Party

Up Close 52

Scenes from an Interview Gus Mollasis Interviews Dennis J. McGillicuddy

100

Locally Produced Original PBS Series Coming to a TV Near You Diamonds Along the Highway

scene | from the editor

I

n this, our Dining and Entertainment issue, Celebrity Chef Chris Covelli tells us, “If you want the ultimate food experience along with some education and a little entertainment, then this (Viking Culinary Center) is the place.”

And Chef Chris should know. This self-proclaimed food entertainer has taught

cooking in Italy, been a regular on the Home Shopping Network and can now be seen on the Food Network’s new Rachael vs. Guy Celebrity Cook-Off. Chef Chris is the general manager of the new Viking Culinary Center at Lakewood Ranch, and he and owner Jim Butler have created a culinary playground unique to our area. Now if that’s not a perfect cover story for this issue’s theme, than my name isn’t Julie Milton!

Speaking of entertainment, Sarasota Opera has been providing just that with magnificent productions rivaling those performed at the most well-known opera houses around the world. We are very fortunate indeed that Sarasota Opera has been artistically led by a man who has elevated Sarasota culture for the past thirty years – Maestro Victor DeRenzi – and we celebrate with him as he reaches this amazing milestone. Steve Smith had the pleasure of visiting with the Maestro and his interview with this cultural icon is one we proudly feature in this issue.

In our monthly dining section, Sue Cullen explores the many new restaurants around town that in her words, “...are popping up like mushrooms after a rainstorm.” Ryan Van Cleave explores the “Artists in Wonderland” at Towles Court and Gus Mollasis interviews the calm, cool, caring philanthropist Dennis McGillicuddy, who also just happens to be the grandson of baseball’s iconic Developed by Richard Hopkins, Rebecca Hopkins and Jim Prosser

Connie Mack.

So be sure to savor, relish, and soak up each story. By the time you’re finished, you should feel hungry yet satisfied at the same time!

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February 2012

scenesarasota.com

SPECIALISTS WO R K I N G A S O N E H E L P YO U LIVE ACHIEVEMENT

A

WEALTH PLANNING

TRUST AND ESTATE PLANNING

PRIVATE BANKING

INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT

ACHIEVEMENT is a service mark of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (“PNC”) uses the service marks “PNC Wealth Management,” “PNC Institutional Investments” and “Hawthorn PNC Family Wealth” to provide investment and wealth management, fiduciary services, FDIC-insured banking products and services and lending of funds through its subsidiary, PNC Bank, National Association, which is a Member FDIC, and uses the service marks “PNC Wealth Management” and “Hawthorn PNC Family Wealth” to provide certain fiduciary and agency services through its subsidiary, PNC Delaware Trust Company.

PNC does not provide legal, tax or accounting advice.

Investments: Not FDIC Insured. No Bank Guarantee. May lose value.

GEN-7026 ©2012 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Art and Production Director: Michelle Cross Contributing Writers: Debbi Benedict, Sue Blue, Sue Cullen, Gus Mollasis Steven J. Smith, Ryan G. Van Cleave Photographer: Wendy Dewhurst, Cliff Roles, Rob Villetto Principal Office & Mailing Address: 7269 Bee Ridge Road Sarasota, FL 34241 941-365-1119 • Fax: 941-954-5067 SCENESARASOTA.COM SCENE Magazine publishes 12 issues a year by RJM

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Publisher assumes no responsibility for care of return of unsolicited materials. Subscription price: $12.95 per year, $19.95 for two years. All contents copyrighted. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. ISSN 1535-8895.

Special Publications: Women On The Scene Men On The Scene Doctors On The Scene The Giving Book Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County's Arts & Culture Guide

16

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February 2012

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The Sign of Thinks to Come Gulf Coast Community Foundation aims to show our region how a brighter future “STEMs” from a new species of education Unemployment at 5.3%. Job growth of 17%. Average annual wages approaching $78,000. No, those figures aren’t from the distant past or future. They are recent numbers or near-term forecasts—for professions in science, technology, engineering, and math, or “STEM.” “Most of the fastest-growing, highest-paying jobs require proficiency in STEM disciplines,” said Teri A Hansen, president/CEO of Gulf Coast Community Foundation. “But our region and our state are not preparing our children for tomorrow’s job market— or today’s, for that matter. Gulf Coast has partnered with the Sarasota and Charlotte county school districts to do something about it.”

That partnership is a five-year, $2.5-million effort being funded

by Gulf Coast to jump-start STEM education at local schools.

Making the Gulf Coast STEMsmart The local initiative was inspired by state and national efforts to prepare more students for STEM majors and careers. “With the U.S. falling behind many developing nations in our rate of innovation, it’s imperative that we focus on STEM to remain competitive,” said Hansen.

But Gulf Coast has set its STEM agenda apart, starting with the name it coined—STEMsmart. “This isn’t simply about technical education in science and math,” said Hansen. “It’s about learning how to solve problems, think creatively, and engage with new technology.”

STEMsmart students are discovering how science, math, and technology apply in the “real world,” through: ��

�� ��

STEM clubs and summer camps, where students engineer bridges, study mock crime scenes, and even apply the laws of physics to theme-park rides internships at area employers like Venice Hospital cutting-edge technology that empowers students to collaborate in class just like they will later in offices and labs

While STEMsmart is focused on eight middle and high schools

in Venice, Englewood, and North Port, the partners think its success can spread through both school districts. That’s already starting to happen. A major component of STEMsmart is the “Classroom of Tomorrow,” high-tech middle-school science classes configured for unprecedented learning. With contributions from private donors and businesses, these futuristic classrooms are being launched in all 21 Sarasota middle schools this year.

“It shows students and teachers how much the community believes in STEMsmart—and in them,” said Hansen.

The STEMsmart Advantage Have you seen a green “plus sign” around town recently?

If not, you will soon. The symbol—which doubles as the final “t” in the STEMsmart logo—represents the advantage to be gained by a STEM education.

“STEMsmart isn’t simply about science and math,” said Gulf Coast’s Chris Pfahler, who manages the STEMsmart initiative. “It’s about integrating problem-solving and technology into all disciplines.”

A public information campaign will educate everyone, from middle-schoolers to retired seniors, about what’s at stake. “We’re telling students, their parents, and even their retired neighbors, ‘If you want to transform our community, STEMsmart it.’”

Learn more at STEMsmart.org.

Gulf Coast Community Foundation presents:

BETTER TOGETHER: Silicon Valley Meets the Gulf Coast

Friday, February 17 12 noon The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota Admission: $50 (incl. lunch)

Featuring Salim Ismail, Global Ambassador, Singularity University

Prepaid reservations required.

Purchase tickets at GulfCoastCF.org.

STEMsmart Week – February 13-18 To highlight the innovative work of STEMsmart students and teachers, Gulf Coast and the districts have planned February 13-18 as “STEMsmart Week.” The schools will feature science-fair showcases, STEM career fairs, guest speakers, and more. The week culminates with two events: Better Together: Silicon Valley Meets the Gulf Coast.

On Friday, Feb. 17, Gulf Coast presents a luncheon at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota with Salim Ismail of Singularity University, who will share a mind-boggling look at how breakthrough technologies are being harnessed to solve global problems. (For tickets, visit GulfCoastCF.org.)

STEMsmart Summit. On Feb. 18, 220 middle and high school students will take part in a full day of interactive sessions at State College of Florida’s Venice campus.

(Learn more at STEMsmart.org.)

A Venice High School physics teacher launches STEMsmart students— literally, here, on a hovercraft the class made.

GULF COAST’S AGENDA FOR ACTION

AGENDA

FORACTION TWO THOUSAND TWELVE

STEM education is only one front on which Gulf Coast Community Foundation and its donors work to transform our region.

To see Gulf Coast’s other commitments for the year, check out its “Agenda for Action.” This annual publication outlines the foundation’s action plan for 2012, which includes:

Gulf Coast Gives, an online charitable marketplace where nonprofits can package and sell their good deeds and any community member can be a philanthropist.

You’d Be Perfect for This, a brand-new Web site that matches community volunteers with nonprofit needs…perfectly.

CareerEdge, a workforce-development initiative funded in part by Gulf Coast that is transforming the model for workforce training while putting hundreds of local residents to work.

Want to learn more about Gulf Coast’s Agenda for Action?

Call 941.486.4600, e-mail info@gulfcoastcf.org, or visit Gulf CoastCF.org to request a copy.

941.486.4600 | GulfCoastCF.org

scene | social

JFCS GALA “LE GRAND CABARET”

“L

e Grand Cabaret” was the theme of the Annual Gala recently held at

the Ritz-Carlton benefitting JFCS. Chaired by Judy Cahn and Marie Photography by Cliff Roles

Monsky, with Bea Friedman, Honorary Chair, the event featured a collaborative musical performance by the Sarasota Orchestra with Dirk Meyer, Associate Conductor and the West Coast Black Theatre Troupe led by Artistic Director Nate Jacobs. More than 500 patrons and guests attended this sold out event.

The Boxes of Hope centerpieces, filled with toys and gifts, were distributed to 53 families served by JFCS’ Building Strong Families Homelessness Prevention Program and the Operation Military Assistance Program supporting Veterans and their families.

Doris Kaplan, Flora Major & Vivian Kouvant

Joe & Ora Mendels

Margot Coville, Betty Schoenbaum & Betsy Coville

20

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February 2012

Dottie Baer & Bob Garner

Al & Norma Cohen

Rich Segal, Lauren Cohen, Rose Chapman & Sandy Cohen

Molly Schechter, Marie Monsky & Judy Cahn

Rochelle & George Stassa with Gerri Aaron

Mike & Jewel Ash

Bea Friedman scenesarasota.com

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

HELPING TO CARE FOR AGING PARENTS Courtesy of:

Ernie B. Garcia

Senior Vice President - Wealth Management - Morgan Stanley Smith Barney

M

any baby boomers are finding that

care is also an option and a good way to get

their aging parents are in need of

your parent to socialize with other adults.

health care assistance. Luckily,

Prices for day care can cost up to $100

there are many options available today to help

a day or more, depending on the amount

your parents grow old gracefully, either in their

of attention and activities provided, and

own home or in a facility, and several ways that

reduced rates may be offered for those who

you can finance the costs of the care.

can’t afford the full charge. Call your local senior services groups and agencies to find

Research Your Options

one of the thousands of nationwide day

If your parents are healthy seniors who can

centers that may match your needs.

look after themselves, they generally are eligible to enter a continuing-care retirement

Online Support for Eldercare

community that allows them to buy or rent

Administration on Aging

an apartment and ensures them lifetime

www.aoa.gov — A variety of print and

nursing care when it is necessary. Another

online materials for elders, their families, and

option for healthy seniors is private long-term care insurance, which can

professionals regarding housing, medical, caregiving, and services for seniors.

help cover nursing-home costs or the cost of an in-home aide.

ElderWeb

There are a wide range of services and options available if your parent

www.elderweb.com — A rich collection of resources for the elderly and

needs more substantial assistance and is not eligible for the above-

their caregivers on financial matters, health care, living arrangements,

mentioned services. Many families opt for moving an aging parent into

and social, mental, and legal issues.

their own home. If you are able to peacefully coexist with your parent,

There are other online support services, publications, and resources

this may be a good idea because the arrangement frees you from worry

available that may meet your needs. Check your local library or senior

about the upkeep of a second home, and you and your children can have

services agency for information.

valuable time to spend with your loved one.

Financing Long-Term Care Maintaining Their Own Home

One of the biggest worries of those caring for an aging parent is how to

When living together is not a workable plan, maintaining your parent in his or

pay for the care needed. If you provide more than half of a parent’s support

her own home is also an option. There are, however, several fairly expensive

and his or her gross income is less than $3,650, you can claim your parent

things that may be required to make a home environment safe and suitable

as your dependent, giving you a tax exemption for each parent so cared

for an aging person. Various safety features may be necessary, including

for and allowing you to write off much of the medical expenses. (Note:

first-floor bathrooms, grab bars in hallways and bathrooms, and a personal

The dependent exemption phases out at higher income levels. Check with

emergency response system in case your parent needs assistance while

your tax advisor.) You may also be able to claim a federal tax credit that will

alone. If your parent is in need of daily assistance with meals or chores, he

enable you to take up to $3,000 off the cost of in-home care or day care.

or she can apply for several services such as Meals on Wheels, which may

Another option is the flexible spending account (FSA), which lets you pay

be free for anyone over 60. If your parent needs more personal assistance,

for a certain amount of care each year with pre-tax dollars.

you may want to look into hiring an in-home aide at a skill level appropriate

If sending your parent to a nursing home is inevitable, make sure you

for the amount of help needed.

research each home extensively. Reservations at the home selected

Medicare will only pay the full cost of professional help if a physician

should be made at least a year ahead of the time that you expect your

certifies that your parent requires nursing care and if these services are

parent will need it, as waiting lists are typically long at well-respected

provided by a Medicare-certified home health care agency. Adult day

facilities. Keep in mind, too, that the government offers limited financial

help for those families paying for nursing home care. Medicare will only

FAMILY CAREGIVER ALLIANCE

(www.caregiver.org; pay foradvice care on ais short-term basis, and Medicaid benefits to s investment an important part ofonlya offers comprehensive wealth

415-434-3388) offers information for caregiver

low income individuals with limited assets. And, with the average nursing

concerns, newsletters, fact sheets (English, Spanish, and Chinese), and

home stay costing upwards of $6,900 per month, financial planning has

an online support group.

advice about your estate, your business, your philanthropic giving, your

stock position lending needs.

Atwell-being MorganofStanley SmithTHE Barney, NATIONAL ALLIANCE FOR CAREGIVING becomeand evenyour more crucial to the economic adult children

is a national resource center that provides information for the care of their elderly parents. Don’t wait until the last full range responsible of services to help you grow, protect and transfer your(www.caregiving.org) wealth.

mail me

1

minute - start planning now to ensure the future care of your parents.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF AREA AGENCIES ON AGING Publications for Long-Term Care Issues for a complimentary consultation

(www.n4a.org; to discuss how I can

202-872-0888), an advocacy group for local aging

Caring for Your Parents: The Complete AARP Guide

agencies, offers The Eldercare Locator (800-677-1116) or www.eldercare.

Consumer Reports Complete Guide to Health Services for Seniors: What

gov, a service that puts you in touch with a local resource-and-referral

Your Family Needs to Know About Finding and Financing Medicare,

organization, which, in turn, will recommend home health care aides.

Assisted Living, Nursing Homes, Home Care, and Adult Day Care, 592

There are other online support services, publications, and resources

pages, Three Rivers Press, 2000.

available that may meet your needs. Check you local library or senior

There are other online support services, publications, and resources

services agency for information.

with your wealth planning goals and objectives.

PS-1725

on elder-care conferences, books, and training for professionals.

available that may meet your needs. Check you local library or senior

Ernie B. Garcia

services agency for information.

Points to Remember As the population ages, many baby boomers may be called upon to care

Senior Vice President - Wealth Management for an aging parent.

Senior Consultant There are a range of resources that Investment can help you Management by providing valuable

Helpful Resources There are many

options available to senior citizens, depending

information and referrals. In addition to the resources listed below, your

on their circumstances and the degree of care they require, including

place of worship, local hospital, and senior services groups and agencies

continuing-care retirement communities, moving a parent into the child’s

may also be helpful.

home, or modifying a parent’s home to make it safe.

2 North Tamiami Trail, Suite 1100 Sarasota, Florida 34236

941.364.7405 800.237.9441 405 a nursing home or assisted-living facility, a directory ofext. continuing-care THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF HOMES AND SERVICES FOR THE AGING

Certain tax breaks may be available if you can claim your parent as a

(www.aahsa.org or 202-783-2242) offers information on how to choose

dependent. Research all your options, and consult the various resources available for the elderly.

retirement communities, and information on long-term care insurance.

ernie.b.garcia@mssb.com For More Information www.fa.smithbarney.com/ernie_garcia

If you’d like to learn more, please contact Ernie B. Garcia, 941.364.7405, www.fa.smithbarney.com/ernie_garcia.

Ernie B. Garcia Senior Vice President - Wealth Management Senior Investment Management Consultant 1 Source: MetLife Mature Market Institute, October 2010.

27 Years of Experience

Call or email me for a complimentary consultation and a second opinion of Stanley Smith Barney Financial Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. This material was not intended your investment portfolio.

The opinions expressed by the authors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect The author(s) and/or publication are neither employees of nor affiliated with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“MSSB”). By providing this third party publication, we are not implying an affiliation, sponsorship, endorsement, approval, investigation, verification or monitoring by MSSB of any information contained the publication.

Morgan Stanley Smith in Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan

or written beinused for the avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed those of MSSB. The information andto data the article or purpose publicationofhas been obtained from sources outside ofon MSSB and MSSB Clients makes no representations or guarantees the taxpayer. should consult their tax advisorasfor matters involving taxation to the accuracy or completeness of information or data from sources outside of MSSB. and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning Neither the information provided nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation and legalormatters.

by MSSB with respect to theother purchase sale of any security, investment, strategy or product that may be mentioned.

941.364.7405 800.237.9441 ext. 405

©2010 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC

Article written by McGraw Hill and provided courtesy of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Financial Advisor Ernie B. Garcia

ernie.b.garcia@mssb.com

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

Please visit my website for timely news and articles:

www.fa.smithbarney.com/ernie_garcia Follow me on

scenesarasota.com

2 North Tamiami Trail, Suite 1100, Sarasota, Florida 34236

@ErnieGMSSB

February 2012

| scene

23

bescene

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

Photo by Cliff Roles.

Lakewood Ranch Music on Main Street 02-03 6:00 pm Main Street, Lakewood Ranch. Featuring the Billy Rice Band. Free concert every first Friday benefiting a local non-profit organization. 941.907.9243 / lakewoodranch.com

Susan G. Komen’s Lunch for the Cure 02-03 10:30 am Hyatt Regency, Sarasota. Featuring speaker Sigrid Olsen, a breast cancer survivor. Boutique sale, silent auction, and fashion show featuring models who are survivors. Tickets: $85-$250 / 877.506.6927 / www.komensuncoast.org

Lakewood Ranch’s 5th Annual “Ovation” Art Festival 02-04 10:00 am Lakewood Ranch Main Street. Fun, family art festival. Open to the Public.

941.757.1548 / lakewoodranch.com

Temple Beth Sholom Schools’s 19th Annual Celebration of Imagination 02-04 7:30 pm Michael’s on East. “Children’s Art Auction”. Benefits Justin Lee Wiesner Preschool and Goldie Feldman Academy. Tickets: $150 / 941.552.2770 / 941. 302.0336 / templebethsholomfl.org

YMCA’s 25th Anniversary Black Tie Dinner 02-04 6:00 pm YMCA, Venice. Dining, dancing, bidding and fun. Benefits YMCA Children and Family Scholarship Fund. Tickets: $175 / 941.375.9108 / veniceymca.org

We Care Manatee & Manatee County Medical Society’s Casino Night 02-04 6:00 pm IMG Golf & Country Club. Annual casino night benefiting both organizations. Tickets: $125 / 941.755.3411 / wecaremanatee.org

Conservation Foundation’s 5th Annual Palm Ball – An Evening in the Garden of Good & Evil 02-04 6:30 pm Bay Preserve at Osprey. An elegant evening with cocktails, dinner and dancing. Ben-

24

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scenesarasota.com

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

efits critical land conservation initiatives on our bays, beaches and barrier islands. Tickets: $350 / 941.918.2100 / conservationfoundation.com

Sarasota Opera Guild’s Sweetheart Luncheon 02-07 11:00 am Michael’s on East. Honoring Johanna Meier, an international operatic, soprano and professor. Tickets: $50-$85 / 941.366.1638 / sarasotaopera.org

YMCA Foundation’s VIP Dinner - Comedy at the Cabaret 02-06 6:30 pm Florida Studio Theatre. Benefits YMCA Foundation of Sarasota. Tickets: $200 / 941.951.1336 / thesarasotay.org

New College Library Association 02-07 to 03-30 Jane Bancroft-Cook, Library. U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum exhibit and Fighting the Fires of Hate: America and the Nazi Book Burnings. 941.487.4600 / ncf.edu

Van Wezel’s Art & Backstage Tours 02-07 10:00 am Van Wezel. First Tuesday of the month, through May. Exhibit from the Fine Arts Society of Sarasota. Benefits the Fine Arts Society of Sarasota. Tickets: $5 / 941.953.3368 / fineartssarasota.com

The Jewish Federation’s Lion /Pomegranate Luncheon 02-07 11:30 am Sarasota Yacht Club. Benefits: Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. 941.371.4546 ext. 110 / jfedsrq.org

Historic Spanish Point’s 30th Annual “Pearls and Palate Pleasers” Luncheon 02-08 11:00 am Michael’s On East. Cooking demonstration and live auction. Tickets: $85 / 941.966.5214 / historicspanishpoint.org

Plantation Community Foundation’s Celebrity Golf Classic 02-08 to 02-09 Plantation Golf and Country Club. Cocktail party and next day awards banquet. Tickets: $350 / 941.497.4826 / plantationgcc.com

SPARCC’s Second Hand Rose Fashion Show 02-09 10:00 am Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Shopping, food, and fashion show. Benefits Safe Place & Rape Crisis Center. Tickets: $95 / 941.365.0208 ext.106 / sparcc.net

Theatre Arts Youth Education Luncheon 02-09 11:30 am Michael’s On East. Benefits Asolo Repertory Theatre.

Ticket: $75-$150 / 941.351.9010 ext. 4712 / asolorep.org

DWB’s 10th Anniversary Season Kick-off Celebrating 10 Years of Fashion with Compassion 02-10 6:00 pm Sarasota bayfront penthouse. Cocktails & hors d’oeuvres.

Tickets: $60, pre-pay req. / 941.544.7612 / designingwomenboutique.org

Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School Falcon Run 02-11 7:00 am Shaded route along the Manatee River. 5k run, and one mile fun run. Tickets: $15-$25 / 941.746.2121 / saintstephens.org

Sarasota Opera’s Opening Night Gala 02-11 Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Follow the opening-night of Carmen. Dinner and dancing. Tickets: $250 / 941.366.8450 / sarasotaopera.org

New College Foundation Gala 02-11 6:00 pm Fete Ballroom, Polo Grill. Honoring Dr. Mike Michalson, the retiring President of New College of Florida. Benefits New College Foundation. Tickets: $250 / 941.487.4600 / ncf.edu

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HealthGrades assures us there’s no 6th star : )

Sarasota Memorial Hospital, 5-Star Rated

by HealthGrades in 23 Medical Specialties ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ��������� ���������

Treatment of Heart Attack Treatment of Heart Failure Overall Orthopedic Services Spine Surgery Hip Fracture Treatment Back and Neck Surgery (except Spinal Fusion) Back and Neck Surgery (Spinal Fusion) Neurosciences Treatment of Stroke Overall Pulmonary Services Treatment of Pneumonia Peripheral Vascular Bypass General Surgery GI Procedures and Surgeries Treatment of GI Bleed Cholecystectomy Overall Critical Care Treatment of Sepsis Treatment of Pulmonary Embolism Treatment of Respiratory Failure Maternity Care Women’s Health Emergency Medicine smh.com/healthgrades HealthGrades® is a leading, independent health care ratings organization, providing comprehensive ratings on 5,000 hospitals nationwide since 1998.

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BENEFITING THE CHILD PROTECTION CENTER, INC.

Presented by: Luxury Lifestyle Jet Port Reception Friday, Feb. 17 | 6:30 pm Join us at the Rectrix Aerodrome at SRQ Airport for an evening filled with classic imported and exotic cars, new luxury cars, sophisticated jets, custom motorcycles, fashion shows, auctions, great food, wine, cocktails, and lots of good will.

St. Armands Circle Concours Saturday, Feb. 18 | 10:00 am - 4:00 pm View a spectacular collection of Ferraris, Rolls-Royces, Bentleys, Lamborghinis, Aston Martins, and other exotics on display in the center of St. Armands Circle. Enjoy the wonderful shopping and dining opportunities around “The Circle.”

To register an automobile, contact Gary Roberts at 941.921.2480, email robertsg@bamboohomes.com, or download the form online at www.SarasotaExoticCarFest.com. The Concours is open to the public.

Cocktails & Dinner At The Oaks Club Saturday, Feb. 18 | Cocktails 6:00 pm, Dinner 7:00 pm The festivities begin with cocktails followed by dinner and live entertainment. Resort casual attire.

Sarasota Road Rally & Brunch Sunday Rally, Feb. 19 | 9:30 am Tour beautiful Sarasota in style with other Rally participants. Pre-registration required.

Sunday Brunch, Feb. 19 |11:30 am - 1:00 pm Rally culminates with brunch at The Founders Golf Club. Rally participation is not required to attend brunch.

www. SarasotaExoticCarFest .com For tickets and information contact Robin Savage: phone 941.365.1277, Ext. 103 | email robins@cpcsarasota.org

The Child Protection Center, Inc. - www.cpcsarasota.org The Child Protection Center’s mission is the prevention, intervention, and treatment of child abuse.

EXOTIC CARS ARE RARE. HELPING CHILDREN SHOULDN’T BE.

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Nikki & Chad Williams | Venice Plastic Surgery Concept & Design Donated By Nielubowicz & Associates, Inc. :: www.naiagency.com

Ringling College Library Association’s Town Hall Lecture Series 02-13 Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Featuring Four-Star General Stanley McChrystal, former commander of U.S. and International forces. Tickets: $200-$600 / 941.925.1343 / rclassociation.org

Goodwill Foundation’s Countdown to Mardi Gras 02-16 6:00 pm Michael’s On East. New Orleans food and entertainment. King & Queen crowning, beads galore and more. Tickets: $100 / 941.355.2721 / goodwillindustries.org

Better Together: Silicon Valley Meets the Gulf Coast Friends of the Sarasota Ballet Luncheon 02-13 11:30 am Michael’s on East. Featuring dancers Logan Learned & Sara Sardelli. Benefits Sarasota Ballet. Tickets: $35 / 941.780.3311 / sarasotaballet.org

02-17 11:30 am Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Gulf Coast Community Foundation has invited Silicon Valley-based strategist and entrepreneur Salim Ismail to offer an insider’s view of breakthrough technologies and their impact on industry, society, and our lives. Tickets: $50 available online / http://www.gulfcoastcf.org/news/2012/01/06/better-together

Make-a-Wish Foundation’s Cooking for Wishes Luncheon 02-15 11:00 am Michael’s on East. Interactive four-course lunch paired with wines, live auction. Tickets: $150 / 941.952.9474 / wishcentral.org

Manatee Community Foundation’s 7th Annual Spirit of Manatee Awards 02-15 11:30 am Bradenton Auditorium. Recognizing individuals and organizations that embody the philanthropic spirit of Manatee County.

Tickets: $125 / 941.747.7765 / manateecf.org

American Jewish Committee’s Winter Lunch & Learn 02-15 11:00 am Longboat Key Club & Resort. Featuring speaker Bret Stephens, foreign affairs columnist for The Wall Street Journal. Tickets: $35 / 941.365.4955 / ajc.org

8th Annual “Marchin’ in with St. Jude” Gala 02-17 6:00 pm Michael’s On East. Carnival themed entertainment, cocktails, auctions, raffle, dinner and dancing. Benefits St. Jude Church and the Hispanic-American Center. Tickets: $125 / 941.955.3934 / stjudesarasota.com

Sarasota Exotic Car Fest 02-17 thru 19 Friday night: Luxury Lifestyle Jetport Reception at Retrix Aviation. Saturday: Exotic Car display on St. Armands. Saturday night: Dinner at The Oaks. Sunday: Road Rally and Brunch at Founders Club. Benefits Child Protection Center. 941.953.7181 ext. 103 / sarasotaexoticcarfest.com

Animal Rescue Coalition’s “Best in Show” Gala 02-18 7:00 pm Michael’s On East. “Best animal sounds of the decade.”

Tickets: $200 / 941.957.1955 ext. 8 / animalrescuecoaliton.org

First Step of Sarasota’s Caring Hearts Luncheon 02-16 11:00 am Michael’s on East. Silent auction and award ceremony. Benefits First Step’s Mothers and Infants program. Tickets: $60 / 941.552.2065 / fsos.org

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice Bethesda House Mardi Gras Madness 02-18 6:00 pm Sarasota Yacht Club. Silent auction, dinner, and dancing.

So Simple Chocolates, Flowers & BAUBLES. Mmmm...

Happy Valentine’s Day MK Designs & The Golden Image Jewelry Store ��������������������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������

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Tickets: $125 / 941.355.4680 ext.311 / catholiccharitiesdov.org

The Venice Symphony’s Eric Watters Show 02-18 8:00 pm Church of the Nazarene, Venice. “ Fascinatin’ Gershwin”. Benefits Venice Symphony’s Education Projects. Tickets: $25 / 941.412.4725 / thevenicesymphony.org

South Florida Museum’s Pig Roast in the Woods 02-19 4:00 pm Home of John & Carol Rice. Home country cooking, drinks, live bluegrass music and a campfire. Benefits South Florida Museum. Tickets: $75 / 941.746.4131 ext.14 / southfloridamuseum.org

The Players Theatre T & A Soiree 02-20 7:00 pm The Players Theatre. Audrey Landers headlines with performances by sister Judy, mother Ruth, and son Daniel. Wine & Cheese preshow, raffle, live auction, and post event dessert & champagne toast. Tickets: $65 / 941.365.2494 / theplayers.org

10th Annual Junior Achievement Golf Tournament 02-20 10:30 am Ritz-Carlton, Members Club. Lunch and post event celebration, each team includes a professional golfer. Tickets: $500-$6,000 / 941.907.9229 / jasarasota.org

Designing Women Boutique’s Salon Series Event 02-23 11:30 am Designing Women Boutique. “The Journey of Life-Long Living” lecture with lunch, and style show. Tickets: $16 Pre-payment required / 941.544.7612 / designingwomenboutique.org

Asolo Repertory Theatre’s Starry Night Dinner Series 02-23 6:30 pm Home of Robert & Mollie Nelson. “Hamlet, Prince of Cuba”. Havana inspired evening. Tickets: $250 / 941.351.9010 ext.4712 / asolorep.org

3rd Annual Tidewell Hospice Compassion in Caring Luncheon 02-24 11:30 am Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Featuring guest speaker Lee Woodruff. Tickets: $75 / 941.552.7660 / tidewell.org

Education Foundation of Sarasota County 17th Annual Evening of Excellence Gala 02-24 Michael’s on East. Gala dinner and auction of exceptional student art. Tickets: $200-$250 / 941.927.0965 / EdFoundation.net

Easter Seals Southwest Florida Design and Wine 02-24 7:00 pm Dolphin Aviation. Celebrating innovative design ideas. Tickets: $35 / 941.355.7637 ext. 410 / easterseal-swfl.org

Van Wezel’s 25th Anniversary Foundation Gala 02-25 5:00 pm Van Wezel. Honoring Boar’s Head Provisions Company with featured entertainer Jerry Seinfeld. Benefits The Van Wezel Foundation. Event is sold out, but after party tickets are available for $75. 11pm-1pm, open bar, dancing, tantalizing bites. 941.366.5578 / vwfoundation.org

Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s 35th Anniversary Corinthian Gala 02-25 6:00 pm Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Supper Club & Speakeasy theme. Tickets: $350/guest and $750/ patron. After Party Only: $75 per guest. 941.917.1286 / smhf.org

Sarasota Ballet’s Five Fabulous Years Gala 02-27 6:00 pm FSU Center for Performing Arts. Celebrating Iain Webb’s 5 years with Sarasota Ballet. Cocktails, Performance and Gala dinner. Tickets: $300, $500 and $750 / 941.225.6510 / SarasotaBallet.org

The Artist Series Concert’s Enchanted Evening 02-28 6:00 pm Michael’s On East. “A Salute to Strings”. Benefits the Artist Series Concerts Scholarship Program and other projects. Dinner, entertainment, silent/live auctions. Tickets: $116 / 941.306.1202 / artistseries.net

Junior League of Sarasota Sustainers 10th Annual Legacy Luncheon 02-28 11:00 am Michael’s On East. Guest speaker Kati Marton, author of Hidden Power: How Presidential Marriages Have Shaped Our Recent History. Tickets: $85 / 941.953.5600 / jlsarasota.org

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scene | arts & culture PRESENTED BY:

1

A big part of Sarasota’s beauty is her diverse range of cultural offerings. February is a perfect example, with events that will allow you to gain a new historical perspective, rediscover the beauty of the flower, and have internationally known entertainers make you laugh.

1) Fighting the Fires of Hate February 7 - March 30 New College Library Association and the American Jewish Committee present Fighting the Fires of Hate: America and the Nazi Book Burning, an exhibition from the collection of the United States

2

Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. The exhibit focuses on how a series of book burnings, initiated by German university students on May 10, 1933, became a powerful symbol during World War II, prompting counter demonstrations in New York and other American cities.

Why It Matters: For Americans, the iconography of Nazism is found in the swastika, the jackboot and the Nazi banner. But another symbol – flames and fire – accompanied the Third Reich from its strident inception to its apocalyptic demise. Among those books targeted for destruction were the works of Jewish poet Heinrich Heine, who in 1822 penned the prophetic words, “Where they burn books, they will, in the end, burn human beings too.”

2) Genius Unfolding 3

February 24 - March 28 Selby Galleries presents an historical look at several outstanding series of prints by J.M.W. Turner featuring artist proofs with his instructions written in the margins for published engravings of the Loire Valley and Seine Valley and bound books from the collection of Douglass Montrose-Graem, founder of the J.M.W. Turner Museum in Denver, Colorado, and now a resident of Sarasota.

Why It Matters: Joseph Mallord William Turner (1775 –1851) is considered to be one of the most versatile, successful, and innovative painters of 19th-century England. He was hailed as a forerunner of modernist abstraction, and his voluminous output includes watercolors, oil paintings, and etchings that range from depictions of local topography to atmospheric renderings of formidable storms and awe-inspiring terrain. The artist left more than 19,000 watercolors, drawings, and oils to the public. Most of these works are in the National Gallery and the Tate Gallery in London.

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3) Ringling In Bloom February 23 - 26 The second annual Ringling in Bloom springs to life with a four-day celebration of fine art, flowers, and fashion at The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. A feast for gardening enthusiasts and fashionistas, Ringling in Bloom branches out with a budding assortment of floral fantasies.

It features galleries flushed with floral arrangements, hands-on workshop and tips from celebrity floral designer Remco van Vliet, as well as a preview of Lilly Pulitzer’s Spring Collection of wearable floral art.

Why It Matters: “Ringling in Bloom pays homage to Mable Ringling, president of Sarasota’s

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Life-saving Coronary Intervention at Doctors Hospital of Sarasota You’ve counted on Doctors Hospital of Sarasota for high quality cardiac services. Now we’re proud to offer Percutaneous Coronary Intervention, big words that mean a big deal if you are having a heart attack.

� Only Local Sarasota ACCREDITED Chest Pain Center � Only Hospital in Sarasota/Manatee County Named as TOP PERFORMING HOSPITAL by Joint Commission � American Heart Association GOLD AWARD for care of Heart Failure � Joint Commission ADVANCED CERTIFICATION for Heart Failure “This is a great opportunity to provide state-ofthe-art patient care in our local community. I am excited about being the Director of the new PCI program at Doctors Hospital.”

Gino J Sedillo, MD, FACC Interventional Cardiologist

For more information on cardiac services at Doctors Hospital of Sarasota, call our free health information and physician referral line at 1-888-685-1596.

5731 Bee Ridge Rd. Sarasota, FL 34233 www.DoctorsofSarasota.com

first garden club,” said Steven High, executive director of The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. “Mable was passionate about flowers, particularly roses. It is our hope that attendees to Ringling in Bloom complete their floral fantasy by walking the estate grounds to see its natural beauty.

Must-sees are Mable’s nationally accredited rose garden, secret garden and the Millennium Tree Trail.”

4) Bello Mania February 10-26 Bello is back by popular demand! Circus Sarasota had an overwhelming number of requests for him to be in the Circus Sarasota winter show since his first and only appearance in Sarasota in 2009. Bello is arguably the most famous & talented circus performer working in the world today and has only performed in his hometown once before with Circus Sarasota! The winter show will also include: Heidi Herriott- dressage horse, Ale-

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sya Goulevitch –hula hoop, Shandong Acrobatic Troupe of the Big Apple Circus- jump roping & risley, Johny Peers – comedy dogs, Dolly Jacobs & Yuri Rjiskov - aerial straps, and Encho keryazov – a hand balancer.

Why It Matters: In January 2011, Bello received the top international circus honor, the “Gold Clown,” from Princess Stephanie, host of the prestigious Monte Carlo International Circus Festival. He has been invited back to Monte Carlo just before he opens

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cently, Bello set a new Guinness World Record for a daring high wire walk over a cruise ship at sea. Bello has done everything from hanging by his toes suspended under a he-

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licopter over the Statue of Liberty, to rappelling off of Madison Square Garden! With Bello, the sky really is the limit and he plans to thrill audiences again in 2012 at Circus Sarasota.

Full-Service Agency: • Auto • Life • Long-Term Care

941-921-6630 George & Mary Dakkak

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• Home • Retirement • Annuities

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

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1111 N. Gulfstream Ave. #5C The largest 2BR + den floor plan in the building, totally gutted and remodeled with attention to detail. Full bay views, in the heart of Sarasota with downtown as your playground. $629,000

2350 Fiesta Dr. 5BR/2.5BA/2GA updated Classic California Contemporary 1-acre pool home with soaring ceilings, rough sawn cedar & room for RV or boat. Walk to Riverview High School. $649,000. Adjacent .5-acre buildable double lot offered at $149,900.

3263 Alex Findlay. 3BR/3BA/3GA/pool Rutenberg Cayman II home with full lake views in 24hr guard-gated Laurel Oak Estates.

High ceilings, open floor plan, gas range, invisible fence, move-inready; ideal for entertaining $449,900

19005 Ganton Ave. “Jack Nicklaus” Concession offers over 500 acres, 236 luxury home sites, a 35,000SF clubhouse & Bistro Rest managed by “Beard Award Chef,” Sean Murphy. Build your dream home on this estate-size 1.0 acre lot. $399,000

4955 Cedar Oak Way. 3BR/2BA/den/2GA/solar-heated pool home in Three Oaks, ready to move in & featuring 9-10 ft. ceilings, stainless appliances, wood floors in master, plantation shutters & removable hurricane shutters. $374,900

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scene | social

RCLA Platinum Dinner he Platinum Dinner of Town Hall 2012 was recently held at the RitzCarlton Ballroom and opened the 32nd year of Ringling College Library Association’s storied lecture series. The speaker was magazine editor extraordinaire Tina Brown. The Ritz Carlton hallway was decorated with a set of life-sized magazine covers representing the magazines that Brown has edited: Tatler, Vanity Fair, The New Yorker, Talk, and Newsweek. Entering the ballroom, patrons were stunned to see the black and lavender colors of the evening displayed in the table settings with tables and chairs draped in black with lavender sashes trussing the chairs. The 500 guests were treated to a delicious dinner topped with a “Town Hall Trifle” of chocolate and cherries.

Diane McFarlin, chair of sponsor Community Foundation of Sarasota County, introduced Ms. Brown who, following her remarks, took questions from Kristine Nickel, the chair of Town Hall 2012. The Platinum Dinner was chaired by Debbi Benedict and Wendy Deming, who pronounced the evening, “fabulous!”

Wendy Deming, Tina Brown, Kristine Nickel & Debbi Benedict

Photography by Cliff Roles

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scene | social

Perlman and Pearls Gala T

he “Perlman and Pearls” gala at Michael’s on East celebrated

the culmination of the eighth annual return of The Perlman Photography by Cliff Roles

Music Program Sarasota Winter Residency, presented by The Perlman Music Program/Suncoast. This intensive two-week program was founded by Toby Perlman, wife of acclaimed concert violinist and conductor Itzhak Perlman, and offers unparalleled musical training for students, ages 12 to 20+, who play the violin, viola, cello, and bass. With a faculty led by Itzhak Perlman and comprising some of the most gifted musical talents of our time, the PMP Sarasota Winter Residency offers an artistic and personal experience that changes students’ lives forever.

Gil & Elisabeth Waters

Barbara Brizdle, Toby & Itzak Perlman & Debbie Haspel

Beth & Dr. Herb Silverstein

Hillary Steele with Rich & Clare Segall

Ina Schnell, Arthur Anowitz, Betty Schoenbaum & Bill Berman

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Photo by Cliff Roles.

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Magni ficent

“Opera-tunities”

By Steven J. Smith

Victor DeRenzi is a Sarasota cultural icon. Now in his 30th remarkable season as artistic director and principal conductor for the Sarasota Opera, DeRenzi has produced over 70 different operas and conducted more than 500 performances. He has devoted a great deal of his enviable career to building the opera company while continuing to conduct nationally and internationally as well — notably with Chicago’s Lyric Opera, Opera Theatre of St. Louis, and even the Toledo and New Orleans operas. In addition, he has conducted in Hong Kong, Nice, the Canary Islands, and in many Canadian cities.

Maestro DeRenzi is also a recognized specialist of the works of Giuseppe Verdi, and this March Sarasota audiences will see him conduct Verdi’s “Otello” (his favorite opera) as part of an ongoing quest he began in 1989 to conduct the entire canon of Verdi’s 33 works. That quest will be realized within the next few years, and Sarasota Opera will be the only company in the world ever to do it. “I fell in love with opera when I was twelve,” he recalled one afternoon recently, in his downtown Sarasota office. “I saw an opera performed by a small opera company. Having lived in New York, I was fortunate to see a lot of performances as a teenager. And I decided early on that I wanted to be a conductor.”

DeRenzi studied his craft and began working as a musician in the 1960s. By 1969 he began conducting. “There were a lot of small companies in New York City that did operas with varying levels of performance — small orchestra, bigger orchestra — so there were a lot of opportunities, and a lot of people willing to take a chance on someone like me,” he said.

Those opportunities led to him conducting a wide range of styles — operas, choral music, symphonies, concert band music, and chamber music — which broadened his horizons and sharpened his skills. “But I always knew I wanted to conduct operas,” he said.

By 1982 DeRenzi learned the fledgling Sarasota Opera was looking for a new conductor and he believed it was a place he might exert some positive influence. “In my first season here most of the operas we did were with just a piano,” he said. “My goal was to make this company as good as it could be. I didn’t come here just to get a job and then move on to another job. That’s why I’m still here.” When asked what he knows about his craft now that he didn’t know 20 years ago, DeRenzi laughed and simply said, “Everything.”

“One thing that has not changed is my respect for the composer,” he said. “But along the way I’ve come to believe that there may be differences between what’s printed in the score and what the composer’s intentions are. When I first started my feeling was that when I had a score in front of me, that told me everything about what the composer wanted. I still have great respect for the score, but I now try to put the score in context with how the composer wrote it and the time in which he wrote it.” scenesarasota.com

February 2012

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Finding Something New

torically speaking, audiences have down-

He added there are a lot of romantic Ital-

graded some of his lesser-known operas

ian operas from the late 1800s and early

and I think over the years our audience has

1900s that he would like to take a crack

come to see that those pieces work theatri-

at, such as Puccini’s “Manon Lescaut”

cally — that there’s a theatrical essence of

and “The Girl of The Golden West”, for

a Verdi opera that you don’t get if you listen

example. “Now that we have renovated

to a recording or if you play it at the piano.

the opera house, there’s a lot of repertory

It’s dramatic, and musical truth is revealed

we can do that we couldn’t do before,”

through a performance. Verdi was an

he said. “Wagner being part of that. I’d

opera composer, a theatrical composer.”

like to do some Wagnerian operas.”

and I look at it in a fresh way. There are

DeRenzi added that he was looking

Opera Training Programs

also certain things that are going to happen

forward to the company’s upcoming

DeRenzi was instrumental in initiating the

with different singers in the roles that might

production of “Otello.”

Sarasota Youth Opera Program, which

Maestro DeRenzi has conducted certain operas more than once. For example, Sarasota Opera’s recent offering of “Madama Butterfly” was his third Sarasota production of that opera, and his tenth overall. Yet he maintained that he always finds something new and interesting in operas he’s conducted mulitple times. “I always start from scratch,” he said. “I open up a score that has no marks in it, that is brand new,

alter the opera’s interpretation somewhat.”

A noted conductor of the operas of Verdi and Giacomo Puccini, DeRenzi said those two composers wielded an enormous influence on him as a young man, adding that the world of opera quite literally stands on their shoulders.

introduces young people between the “Verdi’s melody is so specific to every moment in the piece,” he said. “And so true to the drama and to the moment. Verdi loved Shakespeare. Did you know that Italian audiences’ first experience of Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’ was Verdi’s interpretation of it? With ‘Otello’ he absolutely hits Shake-

“You can’t do operas without Verdi and

speare on the mark, and with ‘Falstaff’ he

Puccini,” he said. “Without those two com-

actually improves upon Shakespeare’s

posers I don’t think we’d have opera hous-

play ‘The Merry Wives of Windsor.’”

es anymore, when you think of how many

DeRenzi added he was fortunate that

of their operas are standard repertoire.”

Sarasota Opera never pushes him to conduct operas he doesn’t like. “I’m

Which brought him back to Sarasota Opera’s commitment to producing the Verdi Cycle. “In terms of our audience, we’ve been able to build a trust in Verdi,” he said.

“People here have gotten to love Verdi, even the operas they never heard of. His-

not a big fan of baroque opera, which

ages of 8 and 18 to all aspects of opera.

The program constitutes a remarkable learning and performing opportunity with three Youth Opera choruses and an annual production of a professionally staged opera with the Youth Opera members performing. “The program started in 1985 and hundreds of kids have been through the program,” he said. “The idea is to introduce them to opera through the singing, but also to let them understand that singing in opera is different from singing in your church chorus. It’s an art form that’s theatrical and incorporates acting.”

is opera before Mozart’s time,” he said.

“Because I don’t like it, I don’t do it.”

Maestro DeRenzi’s interest in the training of professional singers also led to the founding of Sarasota Opera’s Apprentice and Studio Artists programs. Chosen from national auditions, the participants in the Apprentice Artists Program form the chorus for the main stage opera productions and perform in outreach programs. Many former Sarasota Opera Apprentice and Studio Artists have gone on to perform leading roles with the company as well as with the major opera houses of the world. “One such artist is Kathleen Kim, who will return to play the title role in ‘Lucia Di Lammermoor’ with us this season,” DeRenzi said.

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2007 production of Giuseppe Verdi’s opera Attila. Photo by Deb Hesser.

Dedicated opera-goers and loyal supporters Harry and Victoria Leopold have been prominent members of the Sarasota Opera family for a decade and friends with DeRenzi almost that long. They have been particularly supportive of the Youth Opera programs and are passionate about encouraging the growth of young artists.

“Victor’s a pure genius,” Harry said. “I don’t know that there is any other conductor in the world that knows every word of every opera that he performs.”

“The Sarasota cultural scene wouldn’t exist without him,” Victoria added.

“He has elevated and helped define what Sarasota is culturally.”

Susan Danis, executive director of Sarasota Opera, couldn’t agree more. “What Sarasota Opera is artistically, is Victor,” Danis said. “Ideas and passions he’s had — whether it be our commitment to do all the works of Giuseppe Verdi, the masterworks revival series, or the American classics — are often things that he feels passionately about. And they’ve actually not only ended up becoming cornerstones of the company, they’ve helped to create a market niche for us as well.” scenesarasota.com

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Wonderland Artists in

The Towles Court Arts District

BY RYAN G. VAN CLEAVE

It’s no secret — Sarasota has a rich artistic and cultural char-

during breaks out on the decks and benches — reinforces

acter that is the envy of many other Florida cities. But what

that sense of community and creativity that Pierce shares.

would be considered our area’s artistic heart, its creative center? Is it the Ringling College of Art & Design? The John and

While there’s obvious energy and enthusiasm within the resi-

Mable Ringling Museum of Art? Perhaps St. Armands Circle?

dents and workers of Towles Court, this wasn’t always the case. The idea of artists living there is actually a relatively new

These are all great choices, but if you head just south of Ring-

thing. In the 1920s, William B. Towles changed the neighbor-

ling Boulevard between 301 and Osprey Avenue, you’ll see the

hood into a residential area for seasonal residents that was

moss-draped trees of Towles Court, an artistic wonderland

popular for decades but eventually began to decline to the

that too many don’t yet know about. There’s a reason that

point that it was scheduled to be flattened in the 1980s. De-

Coastal Living called this area a “Top Ten Artist Colony.” From

veloper N.J. Olivieri — a man whose friends pleaded with

art studios and galleries to antique stores to jewelry shops to

him to transform the area into an ideal artist colony where

photography studios to interior, graphic, and fashion design-

creative people both lived and worked — bought up the run-

ers, Towles Court is an amazing arts community that should be

down houses to remake the neighborhood into something

recognized as a premiere hub of creative energy in Sarasota.

loosely based on Colonial Williamsburg. And since 1995 when the first artists set up shop, that’s exactly what happened.

Kathleen Power Johnson, the owner of the new gallery/studio she’s named Artists on the Court (1943 Morrill Street), says,

The erratic U.S. economy, however, altered the demograph-

“As soon as I came in, it was clear to me what the potential

ics of Towles Court over the past few years. Instead of Ol-

was.” For her, that meant owning a gallery that represented

ivieri’s idea of it being an all-artist community, prices have

a range of local artists in a wide variety of media, plus having

driven out some of the original residents and workers and

studio space available for community classes. Her two most

those locations soon filled with unexpected guests. Lawyers.

requested classes? Mixed media/collage and watercolor.

Dentists. Spas. Massage therapists. Even a psychotherapist.

“And after we get our kiln, we can offer workshops in glass,

But the area is still predominantly an artist community even

enameling, precious metals, clay, and even some ceramics.”

though more than a few terrific restaurants have begun to

She hopes to offer as many classes as the public demands.

make a name for themselves. Alliance Francaise de Sarasota. Lavanda (try the Beef Napoleon!). The Garden Room

A mixed media and collage artist, Meg Pierce, works in the

Cafe at Shoogie Boogies.

main Towles Court Art Center building. About having a stu-

44

dio there, she explains, “Artists need an atmosphere that val-

For those who worry that all of the artists will be completely

ues experimentation and supports creativity. Visual arts, mu-

driven away, don’t worry, says Bette Stevens who is presi-

sic, architecture, theater and dance in Sarasota are pushing

dent of the Towles Court Artists Association and owner of

boundaries more and more. We take chances and the whole

the Elizabeth Stevens Gallery. “The future looks good. Our

community gets involved in the discussion.” Chatting with

gallery spaces are full and our artists are energetic. We have

some of the other local artists there — who often sip coffee

more members in our Association than ever.”

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With committed newcomers like Johnson starting up new galleries as old ones close, Stevens’ claim of a bright future seems more and more likely. Johnson, who “retired for about five minutes” from a career as a designer in the fashion industry, wanted to be a part of the colorful district known as Towles Court from the moment she saw it. Like so many visitors to Towles Court, she was captivated by the sheer volume of artistic vibrancy and inspiring work. She had to become a part of it.

Her interest in jewelry-making and supporting local artists has come together beautifully in Artists on the Court, which is located in one of the larger buildings there. Part of her obligation, as she sees it, is to help the local artists she features in her gallery with their pricing. “At one end is New York City, and at the other end is Paducah, Kentucky. Right now, most of the pricing ends up in the middle.” What that means is that while Johnson showcases some $1000 watercolor paintings on the walls, there’s also affordable jewelry, glass holiday ornaments, and one-of-a-kind clothing suitable for gifts or impulse purchases. Not too bad for a store that hasn’t been running for even a year yet.

While Johnson’s Artists on the Court store is a must-see, here are a few others worth visiting: • June Ansorge Works in Clay (238 S. Links Avenue) — ”One-of-a-kind, practical & impractical, whimsical ceramics”.

• Designs by Donna B (1945 Morrill Street) — stunning handcrafted jewelry.

• The Gallery (252 S. Links Avenue) — truly fascinating contemporary art.

“This is a wonderful destination area,” raves Johnson about Towles Court. “But more people simply need to know about it.” She’s right — it’s a hip, artsy place with something to offer anyone. So spend an afternoon there and see some of the most exciting new artwork Sarasota has to offer. You might even discover a treasure that you just have to take home with you. For more information on Towles Court, please visit towlescourt.com.

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

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Toasting a Winner

By Sue Cullen

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Jim Butler’s

Viking Culinary Center

Photos by Rob Villetto / Villetto Photography

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If there is such a thing as foodie heaven, then Jim Butler has brought it right down to Earth on Lakewood Ranch’s Main Street. The country’s newest Viking© Culinary Center, opened by Butler in September, has become something of a culinary playground for those of all ages.

The Center houses a 35-seat amphitheater studded with cameras and video screens for close-up viewing of cooking demonstrations, a wine bar for cozy, evenings socializing over favorite vintages, a large, private space for hands-on cooking classes with top notch chefs, and a retail area filled with must-haves for the well-appointed kitchen.

The amphitheater, wine bar and retail area are sleekly contemporary, and a lighted bar top of semi-precious agate in the Paradise Bar provides a mesmerizing focal point. In contrast, the spacious hands-on room with its warm golden hues looks like a kitchen plucked from an enormous Normandy chateau. The kitchen is stunning and well designed to highlight the features of the Viking appliances and cooking tools the Center showcases.

For Butler, the Center is a natural extension of Paradise Homes and Extreme Remodeling, his new home construction and remodeling businesses. Designers from his Osprey Avenue Design Center created the Culinary Center’s interior spaces. “We develop our home descenesarasota.com

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signs based on how people live. Our goal is to build homes that fit today’s lifestyles, and cooking has become such a huge interest for people that beautiful gourmet kitchens and outdoor living areas with kitchens are standard features in our homes,” Butler said. “We believe in the lifestyle so much, we opened the Viking Culinary Center to give our clients and others the tools they need and the training to show them how to use these beautiful kitchens and maximize the enjoyment of their homes.”

Judging from the response to the Center in just four months, he has struck a chord with many people who have rushed to fill the numerous cooking classes and demonstrations, sip wine at the Paradise Bar, book private events, and shop for just the right place settings, cookware and kitchen gadgets for their own homes. The Center’s built in grill and outdoor tables with eye-catching royal blue umbrellas have become a popular First Friday gathering spot where people can enjoy sausage and pepper sandwiches or prime rib burgers. Hot dogs are available for the kids along with chips or a side dish and beer on tap or wine. Two large screen TVs in the windows allow passers-by to watch live cooking demonstrations being conducted in the amphitheater.

Overseeing all events and operations at the Center is its very own celebrity chef. Chris Covelli, general manager and executive resident chef, calls himself a food entertainer who spent 13 years teaching cooking in Italy and has been a regular on stage at conventions and the Home Shopping Network. Most recently, he has been tapped for the Food Network’s new Rachael vs. Guy Celebrity Cook-Off, which pits food mogul Rachael Ray against the boisterous, platinum-spiked Guy Fieri, each with a team of celebrities.

Covelli, and the 10 other chefs who teach cooking classes and conduct demonstrations at the Center, spice up the educational aspects with a generous dollop of humor and a splash of showmanship, ensuring there is something for everyone from the serious enthusiast to the novice. Participants in a recent hands-on class ranged in skill from a professional chef and his wife to a family of visitors

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with their teenage children. Everyone contributed, and everyone enjoyed the meal they had helped prepare. The adult participants chatted about the food and about which of two wines served with each course they thought was the best pairing while the teens enjoyed an alcohol-free sparkler.

“Some people are really serious about food, and we try to give the technical side that no one else can provide. We also incorporate some humor for people who may be intimidated by the kitchen or who are just breaking in to the experience,” Covelli said. “It’s a no-brainer. If you want the ultimate food experience along with some education and a little entertainment, this is the place.”

Classes typically are designed around a theme, and participants leave with a sheaf of recipes they are encouraged to try at home. Themes may range from Parisian or Mexican cuisine to recreating recipes from Great American steakhouses. This month, culinary excursions range from Argentine steakhouses, Thai, Southern Italian, Jewish cooking and French Creole to dishes inspired by the movie “Julie and Julia,” Teens Sushi, Cheese 101, and Tailgating Party. In addition, regular weekly features include Date Night for couples and Girls’ Night Out along with a variety of classes for kids.

Classes also are available on cooking basics like improving knife skills.

“We try to teach worldwide cuisine here as authentically as possible,” Covelli says. “Pick any city you’ve traveled to. You don’t have to go there, you can have that experience here. People say they miss special foods from their former homes, so in January, we did Chicago steakhouse and New York steakhouse to recreate those flavors. It also could be a taste of Tuscany, Portugal, a Paris bistrot, or anything else,” he said. “From a chef’s perspective, this is the biggest playground I ever could have wanted, and the food here has to be five-star because that’s the way Jim builds his homes.”

The Center also can accommodate more than 100 for private events that have ranged from birthday and anniversary parties to private hands-on cooking classes and demonstrations to seminars and corporate team-building events. scenesarasota.com

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If you want the

ultimate food experience along with some education and a little entertainment, this is the place. place. – Chef Chris Covelli

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The focus on creating and recreating memorable food experiences with meticulous attention to detail reflects Butler’s approach to creating homes designed to be well lived in as an important part of a fulfilling lifestyle. “A lot of baby boomers built part of our portfolios based on buying and selling real estate, and we lost sight of what a home is really for,” Butler said. “Our parents’ generation was able to keep a house a home. It was their pride and joy. They understood what the purpose of a home is and why owning a home was the American dream. Home is the hub of the family. It’s for sheltering the family, entertaining friends and relations and enjoying the fruits of our labors, and we want to help people get back to that.”

Butler says today’s homeowner has moved beyond mega-homes because they found bigger isn’t always better when it comes to lifestyle. Today, people want functional spaces that fit how they use their homes and those high-end amenities and luxuries that make life more pleasurable. To meet those desires, Butler began including those amenities and luxuries as standard offerings in all his homes. In addition to gourmet kitchens and outdoor kitchens equipped with Viking appliances for entertaining or intimate family meals, Paradise Homes have beautiful fireplace walls for indoor gatherings in chilly weather. Also a part of every home are granite countertops throughout the house, Wood-Mode® cabinetry, and Hinkley® lighting, and many green features such as energy-saving double-pane Low-E impact resistant windows.

“I’ve learned that a home is a big part of our lives and not just an investment,” Butler said. “It should be treated as a reward for your hard work and efforts so that you can enjoy your time off.”

Because cooking has become essential to that enjoyment, the Viking Culinary Center is a natural extension of Butler’s desire to help people establish homes that truly support the creation of their desired lifestyle. “You can take cooking to whatever level you want. It’s creative and a way to challenge yourself,” he says. “After all, how much golf or tennis can you play? A lot of men come in here looking for a new hobby, and cooking becomes a new interest. Plus, there’s a big reward at the end.”

Butler gives a lot of credit for the Center’s early success to his team. “They are dedicated to what we believe in here and love what they do, and people can feel the passion,” he says. “We plan to continue to grow our staff and want to bring in some celebrity chefs and chefs from around the world. It’s the people who put the heart into what we are trying to bring to the community.

Without the people, this is just a building.” scenesarasota.com

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Scenes from an Interview:

Dennis J. McGillicuddy

by Gus Mollasis

His granddaddy was the grand old man of our national pastime who won more games as a manager than anyone in Major League Baseball history. Yes, his granddaddy, Connie Mack, was indeed a very famous man, but his grandson, Dennis McGillicuddy, points out that more importantly he was a great man. Dennis says he is blessed to have been raised in his family and he is most happy when he sees other people happy. He beams when he is around his bride Graci, who captured his heart some 50 years ago. Today, the gleam is still in both their eyes as they do good works and deeds for the many causes that have captured their hearts. They form a powerful team. Even on a cool Sarasota day their passion for life and each other still burns brightly as they reach out to help others embrace each other and their differences. Recently, I sat down with Dennis McGillicuddy and we took a look at some of the scenes from an interview of his life.

Where were you born?

don’t think it makes you anything special.”

I was born in Philadelphia three days after Pearl Harbor was bombed on December 10, 1941.

Are you a baseball fan?

I am, but not as avid as I used to be.

Describe a memory from a typical summer day growing up?

In 1950, we moved to Fort Myers, Florida and it was a great

Are you happy with the state of the game today?

place to grow up. Fishing, playing baseball, skinny dipping in

That’s a complex question. When I think back to when it

creeks, doing all kinds of fun things, I had a Tom Sawyer-like

was the national pastime, there seemed to be fan loyalty and

childhood. It was fantastic. I got my love of fishing back then. I

players would stay with a team although that was imposed

remember catching my first fish. We just moved and we were

because of the reserve clause. There were some pretty bad

staying on Fort Myers Beach. I had a cane pole and caught a

things about baseball in the old days. There was segrega-

sheepshead off the dock, a little less than a mile from where I

tion, the reserve clause and the owners were exempt from

was living. I walked all the way home with that sheepshead in

anti-trust so they could do all kinds of things. So in one sense

my hand to show my parents.

there has been progress. On the other hand, in the case of sports, Hollywood, business, the drive for money is every-

What did you want to be when you grew up?

thing and that seems to have taken away from the thrill of the

In my early childhood, I wanted to be a baseball player. I loved

sport. So to me it’s a mixed bag. The old days, in all aspects

baseball. My grandfather stayed with us in the wintertime, so

of our culture, have some real appeal and yet we have made

people like Branch Rickey and other baseball people would

some real progress.

come around. It had an influence on me.

How would your grandfather manage in today’s game?

Your family name, Mack, is iconic in baseball. When did you

I think that he would manage exactly as he did then, by im-

realize who your family was and what did it mean to you?

plementing key players as captains. He was not an autocrat,

I can’t remember exactly the time I realized he was a very fa-

although he looked like it. He was very much about getting

mous person. The thing that sticks out in my mind was my dad

player input and he had the sense that it was a team, and the

sitting my brothers and sisters and I down at a fairly early age

natural leaders on the team came forward and motivated the

and saying, “Your grandfather is a very famous person. Every-

players as much as he did.

body knows him and he has created that. It is nothing to be ashamed of. It will probably open some doors, but don’t think

Why are you called McGillicuddy and not Mack?

that it will accomplish anything for you. It’s fine that you are the

My grandfather’s legal name was Cornelius McGillicuddy

grandson of a famous person and you don’t have to hide it, but

and nobody in my family has ever legally changed their

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name to Mack. My brother Connie, the United States Senator,

the educational programs. There are initiatives and curriculum

used it as a nickname as did my dad Connie Mack, Jr. But our

that we have developed for our schools that are derived from

name has always been McGillicuddy and we’ve always gone

the art work, made up of questions and links to the Internet.

by that name.

It is extremely gratifying to see this develop into an important teaching program.

In or out of baseball, how will those remember the great Connie Mack?

Was there a moment in your life where the seed was planted

Only baseball fans remember Connie Mack. Like a lot of great

and out of it grew your involvement in truly embracing others

people, he wasn’t just famous, he was a great man. He was a

who were not like you?

leader who founded the American League with two other peo-

I can trace it back to first moving to Fort Myers. We lived a

ple. Like what happens to most people, he will be remembered

couple of blocks from the public golf club where there were

less and less as time goes by.

caddies and all the caddies were black. I will never forget one Saturday morning we got into a touch football game with black

You have been involved in the Television Industry. Do you

caddies and a bunch of white kids. It wasn’t blacks against

sometimes scratch your head at the rate of how fast technol-

whites, we just chose up teams and we had a great time.

ogy is moving?

When my brothers and I got home, the phone was ringing off

I was in the cable business in the late 60s so I saw quite an

the wall. Some of the neighbors were irate that we would be

evolution of the industry. It was a fascinating business. While for

playing with these black caddies. And I will never forget that

most of us it was a monopoly, we still had to keep up with the

Mom and Dad sat us down and told us that there was a thing

constantly changing technology. Eventually we decided to sell

called prejudice in the world, and black people are looked

in the late 90s when we were faced with enormous expendi-

down upon by a lot of people but that’s not the way we think.

tures of capital that we needed to invest if we wanted to provide

All people are equal and there is nothing wrong with what

telephone service.

we did. There are some people that are ignorant, and they wanted us to know that every person alive deserves respect

What is your overall take on the seemingly endless growth of

unless they behave in way that they lose that respect.

technology and the state of how we communicate today?

Well in a free society, it is truly a mixed bag. You’ve got the good

Why do the both of you get so involved in so many causes?

and the bad. It’s harder to find the good stuff because there

Sometime in my adult life I had the realization that help-

is so much shallow stuff that appeals to the lowest common

ing other people was not just a good thing and something

denominator. On the other hand, if you pay attention, you can

I should do, but it brought great joy to me. Because I was

learn a lot. YouTube, for example, is a fascinating thing that is

fortunate to be successful in business and I have the time

also filled with all kinds of junk.

and wherewithal, it just kind of flows naturally. Both Graci and I are in good health and we lead active lives. We are the

You have embraced a cause called Embracing Our Differenc-

luckiest people in the whole world having been blessed in so

es with your wife Graci. What does that cause mean and why

many ways. My parents were also very giving people, and I

is it so important to the both of you?

was blessed to be raised in the family I was raised in. The

Back in 2003, some friends of ours told us they were bring-

things we get involved in actually change us and it keeps our

ing an exhibit to Sarasota called Coexistence that promoted

feet on the ground and connected to our values.

standing up against hatred and prejudice and that diversity was good for our community. We jumped in with both feet. It

54

I understand that you don’t fish anymore. Why is that?

was a one shot deal because it was moving on to other cities.

I don’t fish at all. In 2001, I was fishing in the Bahamas and I

But since the exhibit was such a rousing success turning out

caught a big old mutton snapper and we ate it that night. It had

95,000 people at Sarasota’s Bayfront Park, we got together

ciguatera, which is a a neurotoxin found on coral reefs which

with our committee and decided it would be great to do this on

is then eaten by small fish who are in turn eaten by larger fish

a regular basis. We modified the idea with a new name, “ Em-

and this toxin ultimately ends up in our food chain. Myself and

bracing Our Differences.” We sought student art submissions

four other people were devastatingly poisoned, deathly sick. I

which we narrowed down to 39 pretty good pieces of art work

was sick for almost a year. It kind of shifted how I was going to

that demonstrated what the mission was all about. Essentially

spend my leisure time. I had been thinking for some time that it

we were off and running. That year we had 120,000 people

was time not to kill fish and I only killed the fish that I was going

show up. We started a program to bus children to the exhibit

to eat. I had done marlin and yellowfin tuna fishing. I did a lot of

and in that first year bused 1,200 children to the exhibit. This

catch and release, but it didn’t feel right. It felt like the violence

past year, we bused just under 18,000 children from all over

in that was too much. It led me to two great things – golf and

Sarasota County and some from Manatee County and we just

buying a unit on The World, a condominium ship we bought

had our one millionth visitor. The best part of what we do is in

instead of buying another boat.

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You have traveled the world. Describe a scene from one of

What do you think will happen to America in the next ten years

your favorite places?

and in the next hundred years?

Being in the Antarctic. It is majestic and also desolate at the same

The optimistic part of me can look at this country filled with

time. You really get a sense that there is nobody there. What over-

people that have resilience and creativity. If we can over-

powered me was the serene yet desolate nature where mankind

come the difficulties that we seem to be heading into and

hasn’t affected anything. Whether it was a cloudy day or a beauti-

the ones we are already are in, it will be because of the

ful blue sky, the majesty of our world hit me between my eyes and

character of the American people, the freedoms that we

gave me that sense that we as human beings are just a tiny little

enjoy that allow for entrepreneurs, and the chance to lead

part of this whole thing. It was a mystical feeling.

healthy and free lives.

How did you make your way to Sarasota?

Finish the sentence, a person is successful when he or she...

When Graci and I were twenty years old, we made our way

...lives a life in which their thoughts, attitudes and actions are

down from Gainesville to Fort Myers and as we passed

congruent with the values that they hold.

through Sarasota along the majestic bay front, she said “If we could ever live here, I think Sarasota would be a great

In a few sentences, sum up your wife Graci and what makes

place to live.” So when we developed the cable company and

her so special?

could live anywhere, all three of my partners chose Sarasota.

I have to start by saying that I am the luckiest man in the world

It fit Graci’s dream.

to be married to Graci for what will be 50 years in August. I can’t tell you the number of times that I am inspired by her

Finish the sentence, Sarasota is wonderful because...

passion. I can easily fall into left brain analytical, I learn through

...it is filled with wonderfully generous people that are commit-

her to allow that other side of me to show itself, which has

ted to the community and to making it better.

enriched my life. She has shown tremendous courage and she stands up for what she thinks is right regardless of the con-

You have met a lot of famous and powerful people. Who is one

sequences. And then there is her nurturing side. She is the

that stood out from the rest in terms of their greatness?

most nurturing person I have ever known and there’s just this

The Dalai Lama. That man’s presence exudes holiness, yet he is

goodness and this willingness which goes with the courage to

very approachable with a great sense of humor, a person clearly

embrace people and draw them to her, particularly if they are

comfortable in his own skin, a very powerful man.

vulnerable as the kids are, in her work with child abuse. She’s the kind of person that has never met a stranger.

Are you a religious man?

I was raised Catholic. I am no longer a Catholic. I have my own

Where did you to meet?

spiritual life that involves daily meditation practice. I am not a

We were at the University of Florida. We were both going out

Buddhist per se, but I like a lot of the Eastern philosophies as

with other people. She broke up with a fraternity brother and I

a way of approaching life and try to live each moment and be

asked her out on date. We fell in love and that was the end of the

present in a non-judgmental way.

story and the beginning of a new story.

Your family members have served this country and state in politics. What do you think the greatest thing a congressman

What makes you happy?

Probably more than anything, seeing other people happy.

or senator can do for the people he serves at home?

What I think makes for a great congressman or senator is stand-

What is the greatest gift you can give a child?

ing up for what you believe and having the right set of principles

Inspire a child to explore themselves, get to know themselves as

that allows them to sort through all the competing interests that

they grow and give them the freedom to do just that and provide

bombard them.

a safe environment for them to learn who they are. Then they can basically play their own tune.

Are you more worried or encouraged about America’s future?

To be honest, I am very, very worried. I am afraid we are on a

Do you have a favorite quote or saying that sums up your life’s

slippery slope. Government has taken over so many responsi-

philosophy?

bilities that used to fall on people’s own shoulders – families,

There are many things that can catch your eye, and only a

churches and other institutions – that the freedom we have en-

few that capture your heart. Pursue those. I think about that

joyed in the past is going to be more and more limited. Because

regarding our philanthropic work. There are so many great

the role of government keeps growing and we don’t have the

organizations and it is impossible to be involved with them all,

money, the impact of government being involved in everything

so I follow my heart and it leads me to those to which I feel

will continue to create an economic crisis.

extra connected.

scenesarasota.com

February 2012

| scene

55

scene | giving

Honor, Brains & A Big Heart For 90-year old Dan Paradies, founder of The Paradies Shops, helping others is a promise borne from deep gratitude and a compassionate core.

By Steven J. Smith

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February 2012

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When Dan Paradies narrowly escaped death in a mid-air collision as a young officer in the Air Force during World War II, he vowed he would share his good fortune with as many people as he could — and he has.

After just a few minutes in Dan’s presence, it’s easy to see why he is so admired and respected by virtually anyone who crosses his path. At the age of 90 he’s still sharp as a tack and infused with good-natured humor and a sense of fun. “Getting old ain’t for sissies,” he laughed.

The plane crash occurred when Paradies (pronounced “para-dees”), then 20, was flying in a training exercise near San Antonio, Texas shortly after the U.S. entered the war in 1941.

Terri Moran, Dan’s personal assistant of 20 years, said he has a way of making anyone feel comfortable in his presence — even employees.

“It could be a stock boy, a cashier, a sales person, or a manager,” Terri said. “Everyone has a personal, almost family-like rapport with Mr. Paradies. People have nothing but admiration for him.”

“There were five of us in the two planes,” Dan remembered. “Two in our plane, three in the other plane. We were flying in night formation and the other plane, unfortunately, was flying at the wrong altitude.

We hit each other at 25,000 feet.”

Dan was the sole survivor of the crash, thrown from his plane because his safety belt was unhooked. He was wearing a parachute, but it did not deploy when he first pulled the ripcord. Terrified, he pulled it again and the ‘chute miraculously blossomed open — but now he was plummeting toward a lake below. Feverishly manipulating his parachute lines, he finally managed to maneuver himself away from the lake and dropped into a tree, suffering only minor injuries.

“And I was flying the very next week,” he said, with a laugh. “But nobody would fly night formations with me!”

The legendary General Jimmy Doolittle, temporarily stationed at the San Antonio base at the time, pinned Dan’s wings on him when he completed his training, but declined to bring him along on his nowfamous “Doolittle Raid” which took place on April 18, 1942, when 16 B-25s under his command launched a daring attack on Tokyo, Yokohama, and Yokosuka. Doolittle’s raid sent a strong message to Japan that it was vulnerable to air strikes and provided an enormous boost to American morale at the time.

“Doolittle said, ‘You’ve done your duty,’” Dan said. “I begged him to let me go, but he told me I’d already done enough for my country.”

After the war was over, Dan went into business with his father, who was operating a network of “five and dime” stores in the Atlanta area.

He didn’t care for the business at the time, but a friendship with Atlanta Mayor Bill Hartsfield spurred an invitation to open up a new store at the then-named Atlanta Municipal Airport. In 1960 the family opened a toy store at the airport. Other locations soon followed at New York’s La Guardia Airport and Washington’s Dulles International Airport, and The Paradies Shops came into being.

Today, the company operates more than 500 stores — selling everything imaginable, from clothing, food, and jewelry to watches, books, and magazines — in over 70 locations across the United States and Canada, with around 5,000 employees. The Paradies Shops also have off-airport locations in Orlando, Houston, Atlantic City and Atlanta. In addition to operating both traditional newsstands and specialty stores, The Paradies Shops has exclusive licensing agreements with such renowned companies as PGA Tour shops, Brooks Brothers, CNBC, The New York Times and Brighton Collectibles. The company also works with other brands such as Harley-Davidson and enjoys partnerships with the Big Ten and Big 12 conferences. scenesarasota.com

They admire his generosity as well. Retired from the business since 1994 after almost 32 years as president, CEO and founder, Dan has now turned his attention to helping others. One such method is in the form of the Billie Swan Paradies Scholarship Fund that Dan named for his late wife. It is offered at Ringling College of Art and Design, according to Scott Anderson, Senior Philanthropic Advisor with Gulf Coast Community Foundation.

“Billie spent a lot of time painting there, and learning the art of painting,” Anderson said. “And Dan wanted to give back in her name. A scholarship fund has been set up there for visiting professors that will live in perpetuity. It enhances students’ experience at Ringling College, while helping to finance the professors’ expenses in coming to Sarasota, to enrich our community.”

Another Sarasota recipient of Dan’s philanthropy is the Goldie Feldman Academy at Temple Beth Shalom School. Focusing on preschool, elementary, and middle school education, students there are challenged to think for themselves, develop a passion for discovery, become socially aware, and cultivate a “can-do” attitude that questions why, why not, and how. Its faculty of innovative teachers places a great emphasis on teaching for meaning and understanding, creating a hands-on environment in which students become lifelong learners.

“Dan has made it possible that needy students are able to attend school there”, Anderson said. “He has made it his personal philanthropy to change people’s lives.”

Dan is also a regular contributor to Ahavath Achim Synagogue in Atlanta, with which he has had a lengthy relationship, and his Daniel M. Paradies Foundation provides college scholarships to worthy students in financial need.

In addition, Dan is a patron of the arts and is a great fan of the Sarasota Ballet. After learning that a dear friend associated with the ballet developed breast cancer, he teamed with the ballet — and the Susan G. Komen Foundation — to raise public awareness for the need to defeat this dreaded disease. In all, Anderson said, Dan has given hundreds of thousands of dollars to an array of worthy causes and individuals.

So how would Dan like to be remembered? “That’s not an easy question,” he said, suddenly serious. “I guess I’d like to be remembered as a person who likes to help other people. My parents put that into my upbringing. I want to be remembered as someone with compassion for people that have problems. I always believe the best is yet to come.”

February 2012

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57

scene | education

EDUCATION MATTERS

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

SCENE continues its community-centered focus by presenting some of the most exciting intellectual happenings taking place in our community. Education Matters focuses on higher education, with an emphasis on difference-making programs, professors and students. This month, we proudly feature USF Sarasota-Manatee.

58

Now that University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee

The U.S. government is increasingly concerned with posi-

has achieved separate accreditation from the main cam-

tive educational impact, too, which is why the old tenure

pus in Tampa, they’re able to be much more responsive to

system is being nationally reconsidered in light of a new

local needs. An outcome of that is USF-SM will soon be

merit-based system that is predicated on how well the

a four-year institution — they’ll begin admitting freshman

teachers are helping students make learning gains (tests

in Fall 2013, providing area residents with a four-year uni-

such as the FCAT are just one way to evaluate this). Those

versity experience in the same location, and also including

test scores are now aggregated back to the school that

master’s degree program opportunities.

taught the teacher.

What’s the benefit of that? Dr. Terry A. Osborn, Dean and

As you can imagine, the environment for training new

Professor of the College of Education, explains that “stu-

teachers is changing as a result, Dr. Osborn notes.

dents who go away for school, often settle elsewhere.”

“Schools are held more accountable for their teachers

USF-SM’s new four-year programs will provide access to

than ever before.” But that’s not a bad thing for USF-

local students who will stay local versus finish up a degree

SM, which has the region’s only nationally-accredited

in another city only to stay in that city. That’s certainly one

school of education. They’ve taken pride in their tradi-

way to give back to the community. And with 4700 stu-

tion of partnership with local school districts and view

dents to work with annually — and that figure is sure to

this new accountability and assessment as a unique

shoot up after 2013 — that’s a lot of potential impact.

chance to shine.

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February 2012

scenesarasota.com

Their partnership with Sarasota and Manatee County schools includes having advisory councils to talk about USF-SM’s student teachers. “It’s a way to check up on our graduates and student teachers, and get both feedback and suggestions,” says Dr. Osborn. But it’s more than that. USF-SM has quality control agreements with both superintendents, a kind of money-back guarantee. Osborn explains: “If one of our graduates isn’t performing well as a teacher in the classroom, we’ll go back into the schools and remediate the problem.” It’s tough to name another school anywhere that feels that kind of responsibility with their graduates once the final GPAs are released.

Part of the reason USF-SM feels so confident about the ability of the teachers they’re putting out into local schools is because of a new program called PAInT: “Partnerships for Art Integrated Teaching.” This program came about after the 2000 Champions of Change study which demonstrated that regardless of economic background or academic ability, students learn well through art.

The idea is this: if you integrate arts into teaching, you make positive learning gains for people.

“That a university is taking a leadership role in this approach,” says Nancy Roucher, the Chair of the Arts Education Task Force for the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota Country, “sends a strong message to the entire educational establishment that the arts are essential to every student’s learning.” Most educators, though,

Rogers Garden 5th graders created art pieces called “What I can be with a college degree” and presented those pieces to the USFSM College of Education.

witness daily the power of the arts in classroom. Plus there’s mounting empirical evidence, such as how cognitive neuroscientists at seven major universities have found strong links between arts education and cognitive development (e.g. thinking, problem solving, concept understanding, information processing and overall intelligence). Other studies clearly demonstrate that arts students outperform non-arts students on SAT tests.

It’s more than just improved test scores, though. Roucher explains: “The arts are valuable in their own right. They tell the story of who we are, where we’ve been, and where we’re going. The arts have intrinsic value that builds imagination, inventiveness, creativity. When you integrate the arts with other subjects in an authentic way (where the art content and the subject area content are equal) you are giving students joyful learning — plus the knowledge and skills they will need for the 21st century workplace.”

Johnette Isham, the Executive Director of Realize Bradenton, adds, “Teacher education programs like PAInT instill the value of imagination and arts and subject matter instruction that increases the ability of young people to think, speak, and act creatively with community in mind.”

No college of education in the country has bought so fully into arts education across the board, points out Dr Osborn. He adds that it’s a profoundly positive way to impact what USF-SM graduates do for local schools. “We’re small enough to care, large enough to lead,” he says about his university’s ongoing commitment to excellence. Perhaps other colleges and universities throughout the rest of the U.S. will turn to USF-SM’s success for a blueprint on how to truly impact a community through innovative, responsible, arts-based education.

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February 2012

scenesarasota.com

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E C N E I R E P X E T R A G N I L THERING VAN C

BY RYAN G.

LEAVE

Scene Magazine pays tribute to John Ringling’s tradition of supporting local art and artists with “The Ringling Art Experience”. Each featured artist has a connection with the Ringling College of Art and Design, named in honor of this great man. What better way to continue John Ringling’s arts commitment than to provide a forum for the exciting new work being created right here on the Culture Coast?

FACULTY MEMBER DAPHNE ROSENZWEIG While

this

professional

month’s teaches

featured Asian

art,

Buddhist art, Islamic art, Western architecture, and other art history

courses at the Ringling College of Art + Design, she’s best known as an international expert in Asian art and archaeology. This expertise — witnessed by over fifty books and articles that she’s authored — keeps her in high demand as an educator, appraiser, and museum consultant. Some of the traveling exhibitions she’s organized focused on Chinese painting and ceramics, 18th century Chinese court art, and Korean art. She’s also done work for the Morikami Museum of Art’s National Endowment for the Arts Lecture Series, the International Netsuke Society, the College Art Association, the Association for Asian Studies, and the Ringling Museum of Art. Among the more interesting aspects of her job is being tasked with special event planning, such as helping design the annual Chinese New Year displays for the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas and the Ringling Brothers Circus. With a résumé like that, it’s clear that Rosenzweig is a force to be reckoned with in her field.

When Rosenzweig went to college, there wasn’t a degree program at Mount Holyoke to suit her interest in Asian art, so she forged her own path by earning two undergraduate degrees (economics and geography) and three minors (British constitutional history, art history, and international relations).

Afterwards, she completed an M.A. and Ph.D. in Asian Art and Archaeology and Far Eastern Languages and Literature from Columbia University. A Fulbright Fellowship then took her to the National Palace Museum in Taipei for two years to conduct research on Chinese painting. “The fellowship offered me access that most scholars and students just wouldn’t have,” she admits, citing the numerous opportunities she had to view closed-to-thepublic art displays and meet-and-greets with contemporary artists. “I was

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February 2012

scenesarasota.com

and how they’re different,” Rosenzweig says.

“Their language really reflects cultural habits.

With Chinese art, for example, you’re basically dealing with pictographs, and every piece of art is inherently about their culture.” It’s this close connection to culture that gives the art much of its elegance, beauty, and diversity.

Apparently, collectors recognize both the cultural and the financial value of Asian art because the appraisal business is booming. Rosenzweig Associates, Inc. specializes in Asian and Islamic art appraisals for tax, insurance, and probate purposes. 2011 alone saw over 270 separate appraisals from such clients as U.S. Customs, State Farm, and Sun Trust, and 2012 looks to be equally robust. “This company started as something I might be able to do when I retire from teaching,” Rosenzweig says. “But I already have two part-time assistants and I have enough work for this to be a full-time job right now.” For more information, visit http://rosenzweigassociates.com/ Ryan G. Van Cleave (ryangvancleave.com) is a Sarasota-based freelance writer & writing coach.

treated amazingly well and allowed into so many wonderful places.”

“What’s neat about Asian art,” she answers when asked to explain what the real interest is in her area of study, “is that there’s so much literature involved in the art. Specifically poetry and novels. Kids become acquainted so early with these texts — they routinely memorize many of these. And these stories give you villains, they give you heroes, they give you lovers, they give you moods, they give you loyalty.” With the stories and characters so deeply ingrained into the fabric of a culture, the artists can readily utilize that to great effect so one can be practically reading literature while viewing art, she explains. This happens in Western art too, but without the same voluminous body of always-recognized texts, it’s limited more to subtle nuances that the general public misses.

One of the real misconceptions people have about Asia is that they don’t appreciate how very different China is from Korea and Japan — many Americans mistakenly lump them all together. “They’re entirely different linguistically, politically, and culturally, and it’s interesting to study why they’re different

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February 2012

scenesarasota.com

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-Warren, OH

scene | profiles

The Visual Arts...

Barbara L. Harrison Barbara L. Harrison is known for her abstract wall sculptures and mobile sculptures in solid brass. A native of Manhattan, Barbara attended the High School of Music and Art, Cornell University, l’Accademia di Belli Arti in Florence Italy, and received a BS degree in Art History from Columbia University. She has lived in Florida for 17 years, and currently resides in Longboat Key. Two of Barbara’s large wall sculptures were commissioned by Neiman Marcus for their permanent collection. Both are on view in their store at International Plaza, Tampa. Other corporate commissions include the Bank of Tokyo in NYC; Computervision in Boston; the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and the Educational Testing Service, both in Princeton NJ; and the New York Academy of Medicine in NYC. Notable exhibits include the New York Academy of Design; the Corcoran Gallery in Washington DC; the Chesterwood National Trust Museum in Stockbridge Massachusetts; the Bergen Museum, and Princeton University, as well as three solo shows in NYC. Barbara is represented in New York City by Serrano Contemporary.

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February 2012

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

Janice Ketley Ceramic sculptress, Janice Ketley, freely turns and manipulates clay into what she wants it to be, how she wants it — “whatever works”, as she puts it. This means her circus theme might be evolving at the same time a jar topped with a bird in the kiln, or a dozen angels for the holiday gallery. It’s all about the clay. While she resists being labeled, it’s hard not to be drawn to her haunting statuesque female figures draped in layers of textured clay. There is an aboriginal quality and reflective facial expressions of her women as in the trio “The Gatherers”, apparently absorbed in serious conversation.

Perhaps the aboriginal and contemplative qualities of many of her pieces reflect her beginnings as a ceramicist in Australia 15 years ago. Working with clay has been a part of her life ever since. As she describes it, “the artistic side of me was mesmerized by what could be done with clay to represent everything that I experienced during my 3 years in Australia.”

Although Ketley freely uses a variety of firing and glazing techniques, there are few constants in her work. She describes her method, "Every clay piece is thrown on the wheel as a cylinder and then altered [by hand] to produce what I have envisioned." This is where the evocative qualities reveal themselves. And this is where the artist reveals herself. When she speaks of each piece you hear a maternal affection in her voice, as if each piece were part of her.

Her exhibit at Artists on the Court in Towles Court underlines that what works for Ketley is not limiting herself to one subject or theme, to a specific ceramic technique, or even one mood. Being unique is an important value. These days her focus is on circus themes. Witness “Will You Play With Me?”, a clown and dog duo that recently won 2nd prize at Art Center Sarasota. At Artists on the Court, they keep company with “Twinkle Toes”, an elephant among more serious companions.

This one ring show is a mixed ensemble of her extraordinary work.

scenesarasota.com

February 2012

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scene | social

YMCA VIP Dinner F

riends of the Sarasota Y were treated to a sumptuous “Sensations from the Sea” VIP dinner hosted by Y Foundation Chair Paul Bowman and his

Photography by Cliff Roles

wife Carina at the Longboat Key Club. Each year the Y Foundation conducts four unique “Wind Beneath My Wings” gourmet dinners that encourage old and new friends to support its endeavors to provide services to families in our community. In addition to the hosts who underwrite their dinners, the series sponsor is US Trust. Two dinners remain in 2012: Comedy at the Cabaret, an interactive improv dinner at FST hosted by Dale Berkowitz on February 7; and Fete New Orleans hosted by Donna Simmons at her authentic New Orleans-style home on March 22. Tickets are $200 per person.

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scenesarasota.com

February 2012

| scene

69

scene | social

Behind the Scene

Society Maven Debbi Benedict Gives the Latest Scoop

O

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February 2012

h, my darling Poodle, to have a social

Hermit, George DeJong will play sublime

life in Sarasota means non-stop trips

piano tunes on the bayfront lawn. Oh come

to Saks’ Fifth Avenue Club, to the hair

now, I know I am not the only one old enough

salon, to the nail salon, and raiding the trust

to remember the Herman’s Hermits, am I?

fund! I believe February may be the busiest

Breezy floral gowns will be the perfect attire

month of the entire social season. Calendars

for Honorary Chair Cornelia Matson and

out, checkbooks ready, let’s dive in!

co-chairs Ariane Dart, Pauline Joerger,

I just love a little southern voo-doo in

Nora Johnson, Amie Swan, and Margaret

the mangroves, don’t you? Conservation

Wise. As trumpeters sound the call (I love that

Foundation of the Gulf Coast’s Palm Ball is

part!) you will stroll into the tent for a decadent

taking us through An Evening in the Garden

repast by Michael’s On East. Albert Joerger

of Good and Evil and the glorious grounds

always does a fast and furious paddle raise

of the 1931 neo-classical Burrows-Matson

with lots of environmental adventures such

mansion is just the right atmosphere. Cocktails

as turtle tagging, kayak excursions, guided

beneath the live oaks, dripping with Spanish

fishing trips, and an escape to a luxurious

moss, overlooking sparkling Sarasota Bay is

Jamaican villa. Sponsors include, Mr. and

just divine beyond words. Former Herman’s

Mrs. Richard Matson, Mr. and Mrs. Jesse scenesarasota.com

Dazzling People Deserve

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Biter, Northern Trust, Sen. And Mrs.

When is too much... too much?

Pat Neal, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Dart, and the list goes on and on. All of society will be there, young and old. Will you?

I would love to tell you all about Sarasota Opera’s Opening Night Gala, but no one would divulge the Soiree in

Hardly ever.

Seville secrets. This much I do know: It is at the Ritz Carlton, the opera Carmen will

It’s never too much when your unique

be the theme – I’m thinking lots of red and

finds are so fashionably frugal. Baubles

Spanish décor – and Don and Rachael

to banquettes, jewels to jardineres, ac-

Worthington are the chairs. There you

cessories for body and home from far

have it. You know what I know. It is always

and wide.

a beautiful, romantic night filled with Sarasota society swans. Expect lots of

The only thing that’s too much? Those

furs if there is a nip in the air.

price tags at other stores.

Champagne in the atrium at Michael’s On East – that is the way to start a proper

Woman’s Exchange is a nonprofit which

ladies luncheon and the Junior League of

enhances the depth and development of

Sarasota Sustainers definitely know how

the arts in Sarasota. Now, that’s a shop-

to do that! This year’s 10th Annual Legacy

ping bonus we can all enjoy.

Luncheon will feature guest speaker Kati

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Marton, a charming international journalist and author. Kati is the widow of diplomat Richard Holbrooke and the former Mrs. Peter Jennings. She will speak on her recent best-selling book, Hidden Power: How Presidential Marriages Have Shaped Our Recent History. Quite appropriate in this election year, don’t you think?

Chair Cheryl Burstein shared with me

Celebrating 26 Years In Business

Opening the Doors to Beautiful Interiors

they hope to have cherry blossoms as the centerpieces representing spring in our nation’s capital. Belinda Coffrin of Coffrin Jewelers is once again donating a spectacular piece of jewelry for the raffle.

This time in honor of the 10th anniversary, she is designing an 18ct. gold necklace with TEN diamonds. Isn’t Belinda just the most precious thing? Oh, and by the way, as founder and five-time chair of the luncheon, I have been asked to be the honorary chair. I was delighted to be asked!

And now for our dueling galas,

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February 2012

as in Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s Corinthian Gala and the Van Wezel Foundation’s 25th Anniversary Gala.

That darn Jerry Seinfeld had to throw a wrench into everyone’s calendars and scenesarasota.com

change the date of his appearance. What will we do? Try to go to both, I guess! I’m game, are you? Let’s start with the Van Wezel Foundation Gala, as that one starts at 5 PM. Maybe you can hit that one first, see a bit of Jerry’s show and then scoot over to the Ritz for SMHF’s gala.

Nikki Taylor and Lucille Smith are

february is for bouquets & bon bons & sparkly trinkets

co-chairs of the Van Wezel Gala. Nikki tells me it will have an inspired NYC night club ambience – comedy in the big city.

Some of the auction items are a trip to see Dancing with the Stars, a trip to Paris, and a trip to attend The Masters. A little bit of

sweet nothings and look better with your little black dress

something for everyone! The Booker High School Jazz Ensemble will be playing and Michael’s On East will cater. Boar’s Head is the major sponsor.

Now on to the SMH Foundation’s Corinthian Gala....This is an event that goes all out for elegance and ambience, as per the co-chairs Susan Jones and Kim Githler – two of Sarasota’s most stylish femmes (ooh, I feel like Marjorie North using that term!). First there will be cocktails around the piano bar and Abe Guard playing Cole Porter tunes. Then it’s on to the Peacock Room and the Z Street Bank playing authentic speak easy tunes from the 20s and 30s. There might even be a little bathtub gin involved. After the Keystone Kops raid, you might find a

FIND THEIR FUTURE HERE Prepare them for learning and for life.

little after party secretly tucked away for your pleasure. There’s no auction with all this merriment, but there will be a short paddle raise as they try to match Hugh and Eliza Culverhouse’s $75,000 gift for the Burris Trust challenge grant. Lead sponsor is Skanska, followed by Williams Parker, PNC, GCCF, BB&T, SunTrust, and JCI Jones Chemical.

How happy do I feel in my Lilly Pulitzer dress? Deliriously happy! In fact it makes me happy just thinking about it!

Ringling Museum’s Ringling in Bloom Lilly Pulitzer fashion show and luncheon in the stunning museum courtyard is such a perfect fit. I’m sure you know all about Ringling in Bloom – it’s four days of fine scenesarasota.com

www.saintstephens.org 941-746-2121

A World-class Education February 2012

| scene

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The Collectors Wall FINE ART GALLERIES

COMPLETE CUSTOM FRAMING

art and fashion. Mable Ringling was the original founder of the Founders Garden Club and this event honors her legacy.

Sara Bagley, a past Founders president and a museum trustee, is guiding the floral centerpieces. This is a terrific mother and daughter event, no matter what the age.

Lillys look great on gals 9 months to 90

To Museum Standards

years old. A very special and unique item

Offering the areas largest

Beach home front door, hand-painted

selection of fine original

by Paige Smith. You will just have to

paintings, graphics

have that for your cabana or pool house.

& posters at

Sponsors are SunTrust, King’s Wholesale

competitive prices.

is up for auction – a replica of Lilly’s Palm

“Spring Dream” by Hessam Abrishami

28 Paradise Plaza, Sarasota FL 34239 • 927-2643 • collectors-wall.com

New Selection of works by Hessam Abrishami

Florist, Spa Hollywood, and Brighthouse Networks.

A big surprise for “Dr. Mike” is all that could be shared regarding New College Foundation’s Gala Honoring Dr. Gordon “Mike” Michalson. It is a topsecret evening that is totally hush-hush. I can tell you this, the co-chairs are motherdaughter duo Lisa Walsh and Emily Walsh Parry and it is being held at a new location this year – Tommy and Jaymie Klauber’s Fete Ballroom at the Polo Grill in Lakewood Ranch. You are just going to have to attend if you want to know more!

The finest of original student art from Sarasota Public Schools is the centerpiece and crowning glory of the Education Foundation’s Evening of Excellence. Every year the artwork seems to get better and better. This year’s theme – See the ordinary, create the extraordinary – aptly describes the exceptional work of the students. I think Sarasota must be some kind of hot-bed of creative ability. After 17 years, some of the original students have become book illustrators, ad agency CEOs and even doctors. More than 330 works are displayed at Ringling College prior to

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February 2012

the event. The top 25 are selected to be auctioned off during the dinner. Chris Cremer and Meg Mahoney are cochairs. Chris and her husband just moved here from Washington, DC and have started a private investigation agency. The biggest news at the Foundation is its new scenesarasota.com

executive director – Susan Scott. I have known Susan forever and I think she is the absolutely perfect choice for this position and they are lucky to have her. Lead

Michelle Crabtree

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

2011 Five Star Real

sponsors are Al Weis and Bob Harris of

Estate Agents “Best In Client

Advanced Network and Services and the

Satisfaction” – 4 Years

Herald-Tribune Media Group, followed by Bank of America and Mills Gilbane.

2010 Florida Realtor Honor

The FSU Center for the Performing

Society – 4 Years

Arts will host a one-night only special

2010 Director, Sarasota

performance of the Sarasota Ballet

Association of Realtors (SAR)

for the ballet’s gala “Celebrating Iain

– 3 year term

Webb’s Five Fabulous Years”. Paul Mattison

is

catering.

Last

year’s

2009 Women’s Council of

special performance was a magnifi cent

Realtors (WCR) Sarasota

treat, so I know you will not want to

“Business Woman of the Year”

miss this one. Mary Ann Robinson is the honorary chair. Presenting sponsor is Gulf Coast Community Foundation.

Other sponsors are Williams Parker and JP Morgan Chase.

A committee of almost 50 women is creating Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center’s 25th Anniversary Second Hand

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

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

Rose Luncheon at the Ritz Carlton.

Luisa Goldman is the event chair and Dori Zingmond is the fashion chair – she should be marvelous, as she had her own boutique in NYC. Dori, we are expecting big things from you!

Les McCurdy and Ken Sons – the Bermuda Mavericks – are, as usual, the laugh-a-minute emcees. I just love those boys, they are hysterical! Fashions are from SPARCC’s Treasure Chest re-sale boutique, and we all know what glam fashion goodies end up there, don’t we?

Did we say Mary Ann Robinson is the major sponsor? You get the idea. Other sponsors are Sandra Lindqvist and Michelle Witzer. Cute idea – photos of committee members through the 25 years will be on each table.

Bourbon Street in all its glory will be on view at Goodwill Foundation’s Fat Tuesday Gala – Countdown to Mardi Gras in the atrium at Michael’s On East.

Well, hopefully not in ALL its glory, if you know what I mean. Tara Williams and scenesarasota.com

Trevor T. Taylor Wealth Manager

To schedule a complimentary portfolio review please call

(941) 822-0401

1924 South Osprey Avenue, Suite 202, Sarasota, FL 34239 Trevor@LCMcapitaladvisors.com www.LCMcapitaladvisors.com Securities and Advisory Services offered through JHS Capital Advisors Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. JHS and LCM are not affiliated.

February 2012

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Don’t Struggle With Hearing Loss Sharon and Doug of Gibson’s Hearing Technologies know from first-hand experience that the art of any good relationship is the art of good communication.

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Scene January 2012.indd 1

“Not being able to hear clearly was frustrating to say the least,” says Doug Gibson.

“Hearing loss can cause social isolation because the sufferer may find it easier to withdraw from group activities than to participate in them, “ notes Doug. “Such behavior might in turn cause people to think of him or her as timid or disconnected and give up trying to communicate.”

“Sometimes I felt he did not care enough to listen, “ said Sharon.

At least ten percent of Americans have some degree of hearing loss, ranging from mild to profound. Older adults are affected most, as hearing loss tends to accelerate with age. An estimated thirty percent of Americans aged 65 and older, and approximately fifty percent of those over age 75 have a hearing impairment. Hearing loss can occur at any age, however, due to factors such as noise exposure, trauma, genetics and illness. Worldwide, the number of people with hearing loss is estimated at 500 million.

“Fortunately, significant improvements in hearing technology have been made in the last few decades,” reports Doug. “More options for treating hearing loss are available, and some of these options are not even noticeable to others. They key is for the patient to find a treatment for their needs and lifestyle.”

“My name is Doug Gibson, of Gibson’s Hearings Technologies. I am a Board Certified Hearing Aid Specialist and a fellow hearing aid user for over fifteen years. I’ve tried over forty-five different aids and I currently wear an aid — without anyone noticing! I invite you to come in for a free hearing test and evaluation to find out what your options are for different styles, circuits and manufacturers. We will answer all your questions and found out how we can change your life.”

1/11/2012 10:43:45 AM

2344 Bee Ridge Rd. #101 Sarasota, FL 34239 www.gibsonshearing.com

Jenn McCallister are co-chairs for the evening. Cajun food is the order of the day with fab crab cakes and a beignet station – yum! Michael Klauber is the emcee for the paddle raise and ABC 7’s Haley Wieglus is the ambassador of the year. Circus Sarasota will be performing, Ringling College students will be creating works of art, and Sarasota High School’s jazz band will be playing. I was told that one of the most fun things will be the mission video directed by Gloria Moss and featuring Diane McFarlin, David Sessions, Stu Gregory, Molly Klauber, and Drayton Saunders. There will be beads and masks galore and VIP Travel is sponsoring 50 grab bags at $50 per – each worth over $300. Two will have special items – on a seven-day cruise and one a Barb McSweeney necklace! CS&L is the major sponsor.

If the fabulous Phil Mancini is cooking, I will be there.

Make-A-Wish Foundation’s Cooking for Wishes is an interactive luncheon co-chaired by Terri Klauber and Denise Mei at Michael’s On East, of course. Panera Bread is donating the cute, cute, cute aprons that are must-wear, as not to drip a bit of sauce on our designer ensembles. Café Baci, Denise’s restaurant, is donating hors’d eouvres and wine for 30 as an auction item.

Denise also shared this bit of information – daughter Lea, is now the assistant to the executive director at Make-A-Wish!

Historic Spanish Point’s Pearls and Palate Pleasers Luncheon at Michael’s On East is always a favorite of mine. This year’s co-chairs are Mary Evelyn Guyton and Laura Peters.

Celebrity chef, Judi Gallagher, is once again preparing dishes with the charming Phil Mancini. Those two together – oy! Don’t be surprised if you find a pearl in your dessert. The very creative Sara Bagley is designing the centerpieces around huge oyster shells and Cornelia Matson and Julie Delaney are putting together the always intriguing themed baskets. Of course one of the auction items just has to be pearls, doesn’t it? Nikki Sedacca is donating one of her signature pearl necklaces. Other items are Kristen and Joe Farrell’s Dunmore Town Harbour Island home in the Bahamas and Bill Thompson’s home in Maggie Valley, NC. The one I most love though, is the BBQ for 30 at Guptill House on the grounds at Spanish Point – now there’s a treat! Sponsors are Ann Gamble Blechta, Graham Interiors, Cornelia Matson, Northern Trust, and Margarete van Antwerpen.

Asolo Rep does a series of Starry Night Dinners each season at private homes in celebration of each of their productions. In February, the Hamlet – Prince of Cuba dinner, will be at the contemporary architectural masterpiece that is home to Bob and Mollie Nelson in Harbor Acres. The evening will have a Cuban vibe with lots of authentic Cuban

Pat’s Cabinets: WHERE FURNITURE MEETS FINE ART Residential Commercial Custom Cabinets Purchased Cabinets Entertainment Rooms General Add-A-Room Remodel-A-Room Crown Trim Work Solid Surface Counter Tops Finished Carpentry

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food catered by Morton’s. I am told you will feel like you are in a Cuban supper club – Miami style. You can expect to see

You can dream it, we can build it!

snippets of the production performed. Katherine Harris, Lee scenesarasota.com

February 2012

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Peterson, and Margaret Wise are the tri-chairs.

Changing it up a little this year, TideWell Hospice’s Compassion in Caring Luncheon is switching from honoring someone to hosting a guest speaker. Held at the Ritz-Carlton, ABC 7 News Anchor Lauren Dorsett is the emcee and Lee Woodruff is the featured speaker. Focusing on care giving, Lee will share her story of helping her husband, ABC News journalist Bob Woodruff, recover from his serious head injury while he was on assignment in Iraq. I have heard her speak at the Palm Literary Society and the Junior League Legacy Luncheon and she does have an inspiring story to share.

Presenting Sponsor is Bouchard Insurance, Speaker Sponsor is Northern Trust, and other sponsors are Caldwell Trust and SunTrust.

As the cover of the invitation states, “One promise, two sisters” – Susan G. Komen’s Lunch for the Cure supports their vision of a world without breast cancer. Held at the Hyatt Regency this year’s chair is Ginny Cable, Community Relations Manager for Boar’s Head. As the originators of the ubiquitous pink ribbon, you know you be enveloped in all things pink.

Community Foundation of Sarasota County’s CEO, Roxie Jerde, will be honored for her outstanding leadership and long-term commitment to the organization. She was involved with Susan G. Komen even when she was in St. Louis. Artist and fashion designer, Sigrid Olsen is the keynote speaker, sharing her own story of breast cancer. Lots of local boutiques will be set up for shopping, including Molly’s, Sigrid Olsen’s, and People’s Pottery. Boar’s Head is the lead sponsor, followed

by Sarasota Memorial Heath Care System.

Who among us does not remember the photographs of the young African American students walking into Little Rock Central High School surrounded by armed militia while angry mobs yelled threats at them? Terrence Roberts was only 15 when he entered Central High as part of that group integrating the school. Now he is Dr. Roberts and the author of Lessons from Little Rock. He is Alph Phi Alpha’s featured speaker at their luncheon at the Hyatt Regency. A piece of living history you will not want to miss hearing about.

I hope I survive all of this month’s festivities. I may have to take to my bed for a few days to recover!

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

Contact Debbi at 941-483-4460 or debbi@benedictandco.com

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scenesarasota.com

WHAT HAPPENS A T T H E G A L A,

A LOST WEEKEND IN

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AT THE GALA!

S AV E T H E DAT E F O R T H E 2 0 1 2 Lakewood Ranch Community Fund G ala

FRIDAY ~ APRIL 20, 2012 ~ 7:00 PM

Fête Ballroom at Polo Grill ~ Lakewood Ranch

Cocktails, Dinner and Dancing Cocktail Attire or Black Tie ~ Individual Tickets: $175 Co-Chairs: Barbara Najmy and Ron Masseo For more info & sponsorship opportunities: Call 941-556-5442 or visit lwrfund.org

PRESENTED BY:

Receive updates about the gala and more on our Facebook page. Log on, search “Lakewood Ranch Community Fund” and click the “Like” button.

Concept & Design Courtesy of: Grapevine Communications Int’l, Inc. ~ Advertising Agency ~ www.grapeinc.com

Meet me AT THE

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SATURDAY, APRIL 21, 2012 MICHAEL’S ON EAST

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL (941) 953-3877 EXT. 138

TICKETS AND SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE. WWW.CHILDRENFIRST.NET

scene | giving

By Joy Weston

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

“When you arise in the morning, think of

what a precious privilege it is to be alive – to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.”

– Marcus Aurelius

February is a fascinating month for so many reasons. First of all, it

the Mayan Civilization. I lived not far from the Mayan Pyramid Chichen

is the only month of the year that can pass without a single full moon,

Itza, an amazing Pyramid constructed circa 1050, that was designed and

since it only has 28 days in common years, and is the only month of the

used as their calendar: four stairways, each with 91 steps and a platform

calendar that once every six years will have only four full 7-day weeks.

at the top, making a total of 365, equivalent to the number of days in a

This February is not one of them. But it is a Leap Year, which gives us

calendar year. Nearby was Isla Mujures - Island of Women - a place we

another day to enjoy paradise. YEA! And even though no one knows

often visited to take a vacation from our vacation that was favoured by

exactly who invented Leap Year (I suspect a Floridian), we do know it

many amazing women who shared their spirit, knowledge and wisdom

was to keep the calendar on track with the seasons. You see there are

with others. Now that I’ve settled in Sarasota and have come to know so

actually 365.24 days in a year, and without this clever trick we would be

many more similar amazing women, I know for sure, it is our sister city.

starting winter in March and summer in September!

So in this auspicious month, I would like to introduce you to some

Recently there has been a lot of attention on the Mayan Long Calen-

of these amazing powerful women who organically live by and under-

dar ending on December 21st, 2012, the beginning of the Winter Sol-

stand the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child,” as well

stice. Some believe that it is an insignificant semi-astronomical event

as some of the people who love them, and what they are doing for

and means nothing else, while others see it as marking the end of

our community. For women power to rise above, the heart is always

civilization and the destruction of the world. Or there are people like

required, and the women you will meet in this article have given their

me, who believe that the rare alignment of the Milky Way that only

hearts and focused their efforts to help shape and alter the landscape

takes place every twenty five thousand years is symbolic of a turning

of our community in measurable and immeasurable ways. These wom-

point, opposed to a new beginning or end of our collective awareness,

en have learned how to do their best by moving with the times and

A year of power, a year of action, the Age of Aquarius. (Come on all you

moving with the challenges offered by our community, its people, and

baby-boomers sing along with me, “When the Moon is in the seventh

themselves – true “Sheros” ready to fight for yet another cause.

house and Jupiter aligns with Mars. Then Love will rule the planets and

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

peace will steer the stars. This is the dawning of the Age of Aquarius,

– Helen Keller

Aquarius, Aquariussssss.”

Ok, back to February 2012. In mid-month, a rare astrological concert will happen, when a number of planets will come into perfect alignment that to respected astronomers represents a shift in our higher purpose. Specifically at dawn on the 14th , the day dedicated to St. Valentine, the patron saint of love, the cosmos will come together to ignite a collective manifestation of love and peace, harmonious real-ationships...and the dawning of the Age of Aquarius! (Hey if you feel the urge to sing the chorus again, I understand, I personally can’t get the song out of my head!)

Why does any of this matter, or better yet, why am I bringing it to your attention? Because for the last twenty years I spent most of my winters on the Mayan Riviera and developed a great respect for the wisdom of

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February 2012

Last year The Jewish Family & Children’s Service, lead by the beloved Rose Chapman, CEO and President, assisted by the unflappable Andria Bilan, Vice-President of Development, celebrated their 25th Anniversary of continuous aid to so many needy people in our community on a non-denominational basis. At their 400 plus sold-out luncheon in April 2012, they honored 25 outstanding women in our community, and to my great delight, I was asked to be the Mistress of Ceremonies and to deliver a presentation that would give the audience a glimpse into the unique journey of these “Women of Valor.” To honor these women, I wrote a poem that I have tweaked a bit here to also honor the women you reading about. scenesarasota.com

TOMORROW’S MEDICAL RESEARCH TODAY ENVISION the possibilities . . .

SARASOTA MEMORIAL

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INCORPORATED 1976

941.917.1286 | SMHF.ORG PATIENT CARE | RESEARCH | EDUCATION | TECHNOLOGY | FACILITIES

scene | social

A Woman of Valor...Who is She?

Junior League of Sarasota Child Advocacy Luncheon

T

A Woman of Valor, who and where is she, you may ask.

Is she someone we know whose hiding behind a mask?

She’s a person who lives privately, high above all the rest, Protected from real problems but still trying her best.

he Junior League of Sarasota recently held its Child Advocacy

No, this woman is here among us, just giving a bit more;

Luncheon at the Hyatt Regency, Sarasota. Chairs Dr. Heidi

Sharing her kindness and heart with the needy and poor;

Anderson and Suzanne Anderson chose the theme, Empowering Children Through Art, and speaker Victoria Domenichello-Anderson,

Standing strong against the challenges no matter the way; Using strength and courage to guide her through the day.

a registered expressive arts consultant educator, discussed utilizing

Her value is way beyond any precious diamond or pearl,

art as a tool to overcome adversity and as an expression of our

With actions that bring belief and hope for a better world.

emotions. This annual Junior League luncheon aspires to create a lasting effect on community projects and promote advocacy for various children’s programs in our community.

She’s always smiling at the future while honoring the past, Leading the way for others, often considering herself last.

This alchemist rises above problems, turning lead into gold.

It comes from the depth of her being, the essence of her soul.

It’s a strength of mind and spirit that holds no disguise,

Photography by Cliff Roles

The sweetness on the lips and the shining smile in the eyes.

But where do we find this creature of heaven and earth?

Is she a dream or some great fantasy yet to be birthed?

No, this angel is among us and deserves our applause.

She’s a true “Shero” ready to fight for yet another cause.

She is someone’s mother, daughter, sister or friend; That person who is always there with a hand to lend; A queen among queens, a leader who carries the ball; A Woman of Valor, a true blessing and gift to us all!

Michelle Crabtree & Sharon Hicks

Terri Vitale, Natalie Lewis & Roxie Jerde

Chelsea Veeneman & Dr. Heidi Anderson

JFCS got me with hello, but with 1,768 non-profit organizations in Sarasota, I wanted to know why such beautiful and elegant women like Judy Cahn and Marie Monsky, the co-chairs for the JFCS 2011 gala Le Grand Cabaret, which was fantastique with a scrumptious dinner ala The Ritz Carlton and great performances by our world-class Orchestra and highly entertaining West Coast Theatre group, have chosen to give their time and resources to this wonderful organization.

Bobbi Morgan, Anne McFall & Alisa Pettingell

Alice Bowman, Kimberley Bleach, Lisa Krebs-Knepp & Tamara Nabergall

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February 2012

Judy Cahn: “I moved to Sarasota 10 years ago, alone and not knowing anyone. A friend who came to visit asked me to help her work the phones for Super Sunday for the Jewish Federation. Sitting next to me was Lee Levine, who simply knows everyone, and she introduced me to 3 or 4 organizations to see what fit. I spent the first years volunteering, but the one that really stood out and appealed to me was JFCS because their volunteer program is so encouraging.

It matches up people and their expertise with the right opportunities. Once on the Board and the Executive Committee, I got to see Rose Chapman in action and for my money there is no other leader more committed or passionate about her job, her employees, and the people JFCS serves. She is a role-model for what a leader of any organization should be. Ultimately I became the board chair and one of my first visits was with Debra Jacobs, then with the Selby Foundation. When she said that ‘JFCS is the soul of this community’, I could not have been prouder or more humbled.”

Marie Monsky: “I never had time for community service when I was in the working world, so when I first came to Sarasota I originally got involved with the arts, but after awhile human service called out to me. I was drawn to JFCS because the people there never look at the scenesarasota.com

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See the Ordinary

Create the Extraordinary Evening of Excellence 2012

Gala Dinner & Auction of Exceptional Student Art ��������������������������������������

Tickets are $200 & $250 for Patrons

For Reservations Call 941.927.0965 or Visit www.EdFoundation.net ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������ ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������

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problem or circumstance, just for what they can do and who they can help. It’s never about what is fashionable, but where there is a need.

Rose Chapman is a very unique leader in that she is a generous soul, a wonderful administrator and an inspiration to all. Many leaders build a team around their one great strength, but Rose doesn’t need to do that because she is a truly so well rounded she does it all! Rose is the reason for the success of JFCS. She started as a one woman band, single- handed with a staff of two and no funding, and now she guides a staff of 100 servicing the entire community.”

The Season of Sharing, a life-changing project originated in 2000

by Diane McFarlin, Publisher of The Herald Tribune Media Group and Steward Stearns, the former CEO and President of The Community Foundation of Sarasota, clearly values the leadership of JFCS as well, by selecting JFCS as one of the 7 approved agencies to distribute the collected funds and give emergency assistance to families on the brink of homelessness. Since its conception, it has grown from raising $120, 000 to raising $1.58 million in the 2010/2011 campaign! Now with other media outlets lending their support, and Debra Jacobs, now CEO of The Patterson Foundation and a highly respected advocate for community collaboration, agreeing to match funds for new or increased donations, thousands of families can sleep better at night. This idea, these actions and these much needed funds to help so many families live a better quality of life, has given our community a gift that has transformed the hearts of so many.

“Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything.”

– Plato

See the story.

Hear the music.

Shostakovich: Truth or Consequences See the true story of a creative genius who successfully navigated an impossible dilemma: follow his heart and die, or bend to the will of Josef Stalin. Discover the secrets to Shostakovich’s triumphant Fifth Symphony, then hear the masterpiece in all its glory in this innovative, multimedia format.

Saturday, April 28, 4 pm & 8 pm Sarasota Opera House Tickets from $24 Come as you are. Leave different.

941-953-3434 wwwSarasotaOrchestra.org Paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues and by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture

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February 2012

I know this quote is credited to Plato, but I have a feeling that he got the inspiration from one of Itzhak Perlman’s past life souls. If you doubt me, ask anyone who was at the 8th annual Perlman and Pearls Gala beautifully chaired by Barbara Brizdle and Debbie Haspel. After a standing ovation performance at The Opera House by the international PMP students and local students from Sarasota and Manatee who all participate in the Sarasota-based Winter Residency PMP/Suncoast Education Outreach Program, the outpour of love for the music conducted by Perlman and performed by the students couldn’t be missed.

After a delicious dinner at our favorite “go to” place, Michael’s on the East, and a splash of Doo Wop by the USF academics, we had the opportunity to get a sense of the woman next to the man, Toby Perlman, the Program Director and a pure delight in her own right.

Toby Perlman: “I feel I am the luckiest person in the world. The Perlman Music Program marries the areas closest to my heart – children, music and education. Running the program gives me the opportunity to live the principles I believe in - fair play, lack of competition or judging, valuing each student for who he/she is, while urging and encouraging each one to develop at their own pace. Lucky, lucky me! “ In the past year, the new (11 months and counting) CEO and President of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, Roxie Jerde, has brought to our community an idea long overdue: a collaborative effort between the three major foundations - Community Foundation of Sarasota County; Gulf Coast Community Foundation and the Manatee Community Foundation. These foundations, with support from The Patterson Foundation, will be publishing a website database profiling many area nonprofits to help donors make more informed decisions about their givscenesarasota.com

ing. This new site is called The Giving Partner, and it is being modeled after a pioneering site that Roxy helped create at the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, which increased funding from millions to billions! Clearly, the wait to find Roxy Jerde was well worth it!

Recycling at its highest form is what the work of Designing Women Boutique (DWB) has taught Sarasota. It is the brainchild of its founders Jean Allenby Weidner, Diane Roskamp and Margaret Wise, three incredible women truly committed to making a difference. DWB was conceived as an on-going revenue stream that would benefit many different causes in the community from the sale of recycled and new fine fashions, home furnishing accent pieces, antiques and other accessories. Another brilliant idea these ladies hatched was to create a division called Designing Daughters, which recruits past member’s children and their friends to continue this amazing fund-raising concept. Talk about reinvesting “our profits” for the future!

Nikki Taylor, a partner in Rock Solid Construction, is one of those young vivacious women who have chosen to give her rare extra time to our community as president of Designing Daughters, as well as quite a few other wonderful organizations. I first met Nikki as a model at DWB’s recent “Our Fair Ladies” Gala, which chairs Ida Zito and Carol Phillips made look effortless. The dinner was especially delicious. Emcee Carolyn Michael was delightful, and the most adorable actor in the Asolo production of My Fair Lady, Cliff Roles, was the auctioneer. It was really great!

When I asked Nikki why DWD she said....

Nikki Taylor: “I just loved the idea that this particular organization helps so many different groups rather than just one. By playing an active part in Designing Daughters, whose main goal is to bring in a younger generation to assume the roles as time goes by of the great women who founded it, we have also been able to be part of the grant process by raising our own monies and put in our vote as to who the grant will go to! (This year it was Habitude.org) Because DWD has a younger demographic of women new to town and others who were born here, it’s been really fun giving these woman a chance to shine in this community and build a wonderful life here for them as well. My guiding philosophy has always been, Be the BE, not the Buzz and Givers Gain. Working with Designing Daughters really allows me to practice what I preach.”

Your

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18 11,000

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Serving

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When planning your charitable giving, we ask you to consider the tremendous influence of a donation to Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center. Please call Executive Director Phil King to discuss the impact that you can have on the lives of so many.

1750 17th Street, Building J-One Sarasota, FL 34234 • 941-365-4545 gs-humanservices.org

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Nikki is very active in The Junior League, scenesarasota.com

February 2012

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85

another great group of women helping many various causes. Recently Susanne Anderson and Dr. Heidi Anderson co-chaired JL’s Child Advocacy Luncheon, with help from Inna Snyder, Nicole Sharpe and Sydney Grutners – all stunning charmers who managed to convince almost all of us to buy raffle tickets and bid on original works of art produced by the kids in the programs they are funding. Teen Court of Sarasota was honored as the Organization of the Year (kids judging kids while helping them turn their lives around). Natalie Lewis from SPARCC was awarded Professional of the Year, and Anne Whiteside was acknowledged as Individual of the Year. And the list of amazing women just keeps on growing!

Please join us Thursday, February 9th from 6pm - 9pm for our

Fabulous Fashion Show, food & wine to follow.

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To many, the circus is a magical fantasy chockfull of big moments and interesting characters that transform you to another world just long enough for you to remember that life is meant to be fun. But for South African aerialist Pedro Reis and his wife Dolly Jacobs, daughter of the famed clown Lou Jacobs, life in the circus gets as real as you can get. Everyday their commitment is to “broaden the artistic contribution of the circus while raising the level and perception of the American Circus,” while also creating ways to contribute and give back to the community, from our youth to the elderly.

Staying with our calendar theme, this year’s Circus gala celebrates the Chinese New Year “Year of the Dragon,” the fifth sign of the Chinese Zodiac. Entering the big tent was magical, as guests were taken on a journey “Beyond the Great Wall “, with Chinese circus performers, Asian-inspired foods and guests dressed in theme costumes. As the Mistress of Ceremonies, Dolly brought all the glamour and glitz necessary to light up the evening, while still keeping the mystery behind the woman on the flying trapeze alive.

Want to know her secret? Read on.

Dolly Jacobs: “Life is such a joy when you can combine your greatest love with your purpose. We love everything about the Circus, it runs through our veins and pores, and by sharing this, we bring families together.

Our outreach programs build relationships with people, helping to improve diseases like Alzheimer’s and Dementia with interactivities, and making learning more fun as scenesarasota.com

JFCS... When You Can’t Do It Alone

Our Mission ... to help people overcome life’s challenges, EMPOWERS our community

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Your donations of time and funds allow JFCS to help others in our community

Our Focus ... to provide services on a non-denominational basis, TOUCHES the entire community 2688 Fruitville Road • Sarasota, FL 34237 jfcs@jfcs-cares.org www.JFCS-CARES.org

941-366-2224

SATURDAY, MARCH 17, 201 2 Presented at the John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art Courtyard

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the children get involved with the magic of the circus, and all ages are transported to another place of happiness for a short period of time. The Circus is a memory-maker and keeper, a part of Americana, and now by taking reins of The Sailor Circus, a place dear to my heart as I have practiced there for years, we are bringing our performers to places all over the Sun Coast...and sometimes even giving children in wheelchairs the opportunity to fly.”

“A smile is the light in your window that tells others that there is a caring, sharing person inside.”

– Denis Waitley To round out my list of 29 days of amazing “Sheros”, let me begin by introducing you to Alexandra Quarles (known as Alex), President & CEO of Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation. Her leadership has helped increase financial support to provide the latest in technology and on-going education necessary to maintain Sarasota Memorial Hospital as one of the leading healthcare facilities in the United States. This gentle giant does it so brilliantly that the Foundation boasts more than $37million in assets (and growing) while also assisting other nonprofit healthcare organizations. And then there is Gwen M. MacKenzie, President and CEO of Sarasota Memorial Hospital, who has accrued such a list of accomplishments in her lifetime, and has made such a major difference in the ratings and accolades received for SMH, I sincerely suggest you go to their site and read her bio - she is awesome. And last, but certainly not least, is Jan Mauck, RN, CNOR, Chief Nursing Officer of SMH, who has used her knowledge in the field to honor and support her staff to such a level that more nurses have made SMH their first choice for work.

These Three Musketeers, working in tandem, are the major reason that Rob Campbell, an officer with Voalté Communications, has annually made SMHF his major donor gift receiver. Why Rob? Do tell!

Rob Campbell: “Because our company and SMH are both dedicated to improving healthcare at the bedside in hospitals, we immediately were on the same page. Nothing matters more than knowing you or someone you love is being properly cared for, and our product makes that so much easier for the nurses. Once I saw Gwen MacKenzie and Jan Mauck getting in the trenches every year with the nurses (both keep up their

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nursing requirements yearly), just so they could properly evaluate what they needed to be happier and to do a better job caring for the patients, and then seeing how important the Foundation was to help advance all their efforts, it became a slam-dunk. Each one of these women are incredible leaders and I don’t think you could find any better people for their jobs anywhere.”

So there we have it my friends, a glimpse into just some of the reasons our community is so special and so lovable! Amazing women, “Sheros”, who are doing their bit to make our world a better place, with organizations and foundations committed to doing and being more. If their stories have inspired you to get involved, wonderful, I am always looking for another tale to tell. En-JOY!

Joy Weston is an international best-selling author, speaker, presentation coach and a devotee of making a difference. Contact Joy@JoyWeston.com.

To Our 2011 Foster Angels

We Thank You! We wish to thank all of our wonderful community angels who helped to make this a Christmas to remember for over 1300 children!

THE SAFE CHILDREN COALITION To learn more about the Safe Children Coalition or Foster Angels please call Kevin McKenney 941-371-4799 x110 90

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February 2012

scenesarasota.com

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CHIVAS JAMES’S HOLIDAY WHITE PARTY D r. Brian C. James’s lovely Sarasota home was the perfect setting for an enchanting and magical

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scene | social

It’s Raining Restaurants –

Hallelujah!

By Susan Cullen

scenesarasota.com

February 2012

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93

DINING Judging

True Mixed Media They paint with sauces; they

from

the

number

of

new

restaurants that have hit our little paradise recently, maybe it’s time to declare the Great Recession is over; at least in our corner of the world.

New joints are popping up like

mushrooms after a rainstorm. More than a dozen have opened in the past few months.

One hardly knows where to start to sample them all, but one will definitely try.

Some familiar faces are back on the dining

sculpt with cheese…their

scene. Darwin Santa Maria who founded

canvas, a gently warmed plate.

Selva Grill and more recently The Cottage on Siesta Key is opening Darwin’s on 4th, in the stately building recently housing Mad Crow

At Café Baci, we call these

Brewery. The irrepressible Max Lazzari, who

artisans “Chefs” and feature

owned Maximo’s on Siesta Key, has taken over the lovely space where First Street Chop

their masterpieces daily.

House used to be, and Rafael Manzano and Pedro Flores, partners in the former Hillview Street hot spot, The Table, have opened The Table Creekside. Downtown, the short-lived Patty’s on Main is now Florribean whose name describes the cuisine, and three delightful new cafes have sprung up along South Pineapple Avenue in the Burns Square area. The Fresh

Authentically Fresh. Authentically Italian.

Start Café serves breakfast and lunch as do

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

the Burns Court Café and Bond (in the former Citrus Café building). The latter two also have limited food offerings in the evening.

Sean Murphy’s newest venture, Eat Here on Main Street, opened in the space formerly housing Esca and others.

Since opening

on Nov. 3, the restaurant has garnered rave reviews all over town. With a focus on small plates and moderate prices, Murphy, who also owns the renowned Beach Bistro, has a hit on his hands, striking just the right note with today’s diners who like to try a bit of this and that without mortgaging the farm.

“Eat Here focuses on small plates for sharing, which leads to happy eating,” says Mike Witt, day manager. Stand-out dishes, Witt says, include tempura’d beets served with chevré and crème fraiche, poutine fries, which actually are roasted fingerling potatoes with Parmesan cheese and debris demi glace, and the somewhat Thai-ish island-style ribs. Also popular is the aptly named heart attack hot dog, which is an all-beef dog wrapped with bacon, then deep-fried and anointed with a bit of truffle butter and served on a garlic-buttered roll.

One of the area’s freshest new offerings is chef/co-owner Stephen Phelps’ Indigenous, which he opened at the site of the Canvas Café in Towles Court where he also was chef. Some of us still dreamed of his savory lobster

94

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February 2012

edamame

succotash

and

were

scenesarasota.com

DINING delighted to hear he has recreated the dish substituting succulent pink Key West shrimp for the scallops on top in keeping with Phelps’ locavore and urban foraging bent.

“It’s a passion. I don’t see enough people who care as much as we do about what we do and how we do it,” says Phelps who is prone to hop on his bike and go foraging for delicious additions to his menu. Phelps strives to create dishes that are familiar but offer a fresh presentation and preparation. His

WHERE RESTAURANTS GO TO SHOP

braised short ribs “Kimmy Chi,” for example, recreates the flavor profile of the spicy Korean fermented cabbage dish.

There also is a

focus on fish caught by local fishermen. “Our customers learn a lot here,” he says, “We personalize the fish dish so they will even know the name of the captain who caught it.”

Dino Mirando, who hails from Bradenton, is one of the principals in the Half Shell Oyster House on upper Main Street in Zoria’s former home. In keeping with its name, the restaurant features an exhibition oyster bar where patrons watch chefs shucking and grilling the delectable mollusks. There’s no mistaking the restaurant’s New Orleans and Southern-style cooking and ambiance.

“We want people

to feel like they’ve stepped into the French

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

Quarter,” says Laura Daniel Gale, marketing director. While oysters are definitely featured, the menu is substantial and also includes favorites like shrimp and grits.

Something

special from the bar includes house-made berry infused vodka and vegetable-infused vodka for some very special Bloody Mary’s at Sunday brunch, which includes traditional brunch selections as well as offerings from the full menu, Gale says.

Duval’s New World Cafe, which opened on Main Street in mid-November, brings some Cajun snap along with five to seven fresh seafood selections nightly to downtown dining.

“Our big thing here is we want to

create the perfect dish for our guests,” says Maegan Wardwell, front of house manager.

“They can mix and match items; add or omit.”

Fresh fish catches change daily and diners can select preparations ranging from a decadent Rockefeller

with

bacon,

onion,

Pernod,

cream, asiago cheese, spinach and oysters to a simple lemon butter sauce. Duval’s also is known for its po-boys, Wardwell said, offering them with oysters, shrimp, calamari, scallops and even chicken. The lunch menu is available at dinner for those who prefer a lighter bite.

So many restaurants to try; so many new tastes to explore. This must be paradise. scenesarasota.com

February 2012

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scene | performing arts

CURTAINCALL STEVEN J. SMITH REVIEWS LOCAL THEATRE

ASLOLO REPERTORY THEATRE

and friend. Brendon Fox, a guest professor at FSU/Asolo Conservatory,

Once In A Lifetime

directs this production with humor and a sense of rising desperation

As silent films evolve into “talkies” in the 1920s, a trio of down-ontheir-luck vaudevillians sets out to con the Hollywood establishment by

that all the characters experience as they try to manipulate one another into getting what they want — right or wrong.

posing as elocution experts, vowing to give movie stars beautiful voices to

Coming up at the FSU/Asolo Conservatory, housed in the Cook The-

match their glamorous visages. Incorporating period film clips and innova-

atre, is “The Robbers,” tale of power, class and revenge, playing Feb.

tive video backdrops (I particularly liked how projection designer Austin

21 through March 11. Following that is “Cloud Nine,” a play about sex,

Forbord’s countryside went by during the imaginative train sequences),

mothers, power, Africa, children, work, sex, politics, money, Queen Vic-

this three-act backstage comedy — the first of eight collaborations by

toria and sex. Want more info? Log on to www.AsoloRep.org or call the

the legendary team of Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman — feels over-

box office at 941-351-8000.

wrought, over-reaching and, at two hours and 40 minutes, overlong.

It’s a real challenge countering the play’s zany, fast-paced and screwball style with any semblance of believability and for my money director Mark Rucker had difficulty striking a satisfying balance with the material. However, I felt several actors pulled off well modulated performances — particularly Andrew Carter as vaudevillian-turned-vocal coach Jerry Hyland, Kate Hampton as “Variety” columnist Helen Hobart, and Jake Staley as frustrated screenwriter Lawrence Vail. Most of the others either fell too short or went too far overboard, making caricatures of their characters — and Jason Bradley (as the dull-witted, but incredibly fortunate George Lewis) pretty much turned in a carbon copy of his performance as Robert in last year’s “Boeing Boeing.”

“Once In A Lifetime” plays through Feb. 29. Ahead on the Asolo’s schedule is the Tony Award winning “God of Carnage,” which pits two sets of parents against each other after their children scuffle in a schoolyard fight. That runs from Jan. 13-April 6, then “Yentl,” the story of a Jewish Polish girl who poses as a boy in order to gain an education, which runs Jan. 20-April 26. For more information about the season log on to www.AsoloRep.org or call the box office at 941-351-8000.

FSU/ASOLO CONSERVATORY Lobby Hero

GOLDEN APPLE DINNER THEATRE Breaking Up Is Hard To Do Esther’s Paradise, a 1960s Catskills resort falling on hard times, is the setting for this delightful, inventive little musical that features 18 unforgettable Neil Sedaka tunes. Esther (Helen Holliday) needs $8,000 to resurrect the place and keep her star performers Del (Brian Minyard) and Harvey (Steve Carroll, a.k.a. your humble reviewer) entertaining the crowds. Meanwhile, Gabe (Robby May), a talented songwriter, languishes in Del’s shadow ghostwriting his songs as Marge (Sarah Cassidy) and her best friend Lois (Alana Opie) look for some excitement and a new lease on life after Marge was left standing at the altar.

Can money be raised to save the resort? Will Marge ever find true love? Will Gabe’s talents get recognized? Will Del score an undeserved shot on “American Bandstand” with Dick Clark? You can see the answers coming from miles away, but there is absolutely no way you’ll leave the theatre without a smile on your face and plenty of hummable tunes in your head.

Aside from the title song, the score features such Sedaka classics as “Where The Boys Are,” “Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen,” “Solitaire,” “Laughing In The Rain,” “Calendar Girl,” “Love Will Keep Us Together,” and many, many more — admirably performed by the talented and en-

Jeff (Brendan Ragan) is the night security guard in the claustro-

gaging cast — all under the lighthearted direction of Kyle Ennis Turoff

phobic lobby of a Manhattan apartment building (nicely designed by

and musical director Berry Ayers. The show is as satisfying as a choco-

Rick Cannon), as inept in making ethical decisions as he is in his quirky

late malted served up by a soda jerk at your favorite 1960s drugstore.

fondness for rookie police officer Dawn (Brittany Proia). Trouble is she’s

And Sedaka’s songs are classics because they blissfully celebrate the

got a crush on her married partner Bill (Jacob Cooper), a corrupt cop

simple joys of life and love. Don’t miss this show for a tuneful, fun-filled

who is carrying on an adulterous affair with the woman in 22J. When

stroll down memory lane!

Jeff’s supervisor William (Christopher Williams) confesses to him that

Already enjoying brisk ticket sales, “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do”

his brother might be involved in a violent crime, Jeff’s loyalty — and

has just been extended through Feb. 26. Following that is the trium-

value system — is put to the test.

phant return of “Disenchanted: Bitches of the Kingdom” — a sassy,

Envy, dishonesty and the price one pays for doing the right thing

brassy, irreverent musical revue that pokes fun at Disney’s heroines

are explored in varying shades of gray in this entertaining, thought-pro-

— that runs from Feb. 28 through March 25. And just announced is

voking and somewhat lengthy play by Kenneth Lonergan. The cast is

“Oliver!” which opens on March 27 and will run through May 5. For

marvelous — especially Brendan Ragan, who deliciously balances his

more info log on to www.thegoldenapple.com or call the box office at

character’s affections for Dawn with his moral obligation to his boss

941-366-5454.

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scene | performing arts

CALENDAR LOVE PERFORMING ARTS? GET YOUR TICKETS TO THE BEST PERFORMANCES IN TOWN

ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE 941.351.8000 / asolorep.org Once in a Lifetime Through February 29, 2012 Considered one of the best collaborations by Broadway luminaries Kaufman and Hart, this hilarious screwball spoof melds the worlds of theatre and film in brilliant style and became the basis of the film Singin’ in the Rain.

God of Carnage Through April 6, 2012 A triple Tony-Award-winning Broadway sensation, God of Carnage is a savvy, 90-minute thrill ride that thrusts you into the most perilous terrain on earth: parenthood.

Yentl Through April 26, 2012 For everyone who has wanted to do something and was told they couldn’t, and for everyone who has loved the wrong person for the right reason, this beautifully written play, filled with fresh, contemporary music, resonates with pure magic.

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE (FST) 941.366.9000 / floridastudiotheatre.org The Last Romance (Gompertz Theatre) Through February 12, 2012 A heart-warming comedy about the power of love, one that leads to second chances and new romances.

Next Fall (Keating Theatre) Through March 25 This love story about belief is an Outer Critics Circle 2010 award winner.

Shake, Rattle & Roll (Goldstein Cabaret) Through March 25 This show pays tribute to the talents of Buddy Holly, Carl Perkins, Ritchie Valens and more.

THE GOLDEN APPLE DINNER THEATRE 941.366.5454 / thegoldenapple.com Breaking Up is Hard to Do Through February 26 Set at a 1960s Catskills resort, this is the sweetly comic story of Lois and Marge, two friends from Brooklyn in search of good times and romance over one wild Labor Day weekend. The score showcases 18 Neil Sedaka classics, including Where the Boys Are, Sweet Sixteen, Calendar Girl, Stupid Cupid, Solitaire and Breaking Up is Hard to Do.

MANATEE PLAYERS 941.748.5875 / manateeplayers.com scenesarasota.com

Aida February 23 – March 11 Elton John and Tim Rice’s AIDA is a contemporary musical take on a grand classic tale of the timeless bond between an enslaved Nubian princess and an Egyptian soldier.

THE PLAYERS THEATRE 941.365.2494 / theplayers.org A Chorus Line February 16 -26 This musical is set on a bare stage and provides a glimpse into the lives of Broadway dancers. One highlight is the musical anthem What I Did for Love.

SARASOTA BALLET 941.359.0099 / sarasotaballet.org A Knight of The British Ballet (FSU Center for the Performing Arts) February 24 - 26 Sir Frederick Ashton’s Valses Nobles et Sentimentales, Monotones I & II, and Façade. Never performed in the U.S., this rare abstract ballet with no narrative created in the post-WW II period soon led to Ashton’s most mature creative period firmly rooted in the dramatic foundation of the British Ballet tradition.

SARASOTA OPERA 941.366.8450 / sarasotaopera.org George Bizet’s Carmen February 11, 14, 19, 22, 24 / March 4, 8, 11, 16, 20, 24 The Gypsy Carmen is desired by many, but she loves only whom she chooses. This audience favorite returns for the first time in 12 seasons in a new production designed for Sarasota Opera.

Donizetti’s Lucia Di Lammermoor February 18, 21, 23, 26 / March 2, 7, 9, 17, 23 One of the greatest Italian operas returns to the company for the first time in a decade.

Otello March 3, 6, 11, 14, 17, 22 & 25 Otello, what many consider to be Verdi’s greatest opera, comes to the Sarasota Opera for the first time. Based on Shakespeare’s play, the composer provides a score that illuminates both the epic and personal tragedy of this story.

Vanessa March 10, 13, 15, 18, 21 & 24 An opera of intense lyrical beauty, Vanessa is the story of an aging aristocrat dreaming of love’s return, and her niece Erika, waiting for love to come.

SARASOTA ORCHESTRA 941.953.3434 / sarasotaorchestra.org Great Escapes: Embraceable You February 8, 9, 10 & 11 Romance is in the air during this evening of unforgettable love songs featuring Gershwin’s Embraceable You and the Beatles I Want To Hold Your Hand.

Masterworks: Bjaland and Weiss February 16, 17, 18 & 19 A salute to Maestro Bjaland, this concert combines some of the greatest pieces we know.

VAN WEZEL PERFORMING ARTS HALL 941.953.3368 / vanwezel.org Foreigner February 7 The Official Blues Brothers Review February 8 Forever Tango with Anna Trebunskaya February 9 Cats February 10 & 11 Legends of Russian Ballet February 12 An Evening with Patty LuPone & Mandy Patinkin February 14 Gilmore Award Pianist Kirill Gerstein February 16 Rhythm in the Night: The Irish Dance S pectacular Showcase February 20 Alvin Ailey February 21 An Evening with Linda Eder & Tom Wopat February 24 Jerry Seinfeld February 25 Dick Fox’s Golden Boys February 26 Irish Rovers February 27 Moscow Festival Ballet Swan Lake February 28 Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons February 29

VENICE THEATRE 941.488.1115 / venicestage.com The Music Man February 14 – March 11 Winner of five Tony Awards in 1957, this perennial favorite has stood the test of time.

February 2012

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S P E C I A L

P R O M O T I O N

ROBERTO MEI MICHAEL MEI

/

B U S I N E S S

P R O F I L E S

KC FOX

Fox Restaurant Equipment & Supply, Inc.

Cafe Baci

Have you ever thought about getting into the restaurant business?

Sarasota/Bradenton boasts many outstanding restaurants, nightclubs and lounges as well as many other types of food service businesses. One thing they all have in common is that they all need As fifth and sixth generation restaurateurs, creating a first class fam-

commercial cooking equipment, refrigeration and prep equipment.

ily-run Italian restaurant is second nature to Roberto and Michael Mei

That is exactly what KC Fox at Fox Restaurant Equipment and

of Café Baci. Growing up working in the small chain of restaurants

Supply has proudly been doing for over 15 years in Sarasota and

his family owned in Manhattan, Roberto Mei already was a veteran

more than 25 years in Naples, FL.

in the business.

Located in Sarasota’s Northgate Business Center, Fox Restaurant Today, with an unwavering commitment to excellence, painstaking

and Equipment Supply’s 25,000 square foot building is filled with all

attention to every delicious detail, and hands-on leadership, Roberto

types of commercial food service equipment. Customers can browse

Mei and his son Michael recently celebrated Café Baci’s 21st year as

through the showroom and pre-owned equipment warehouse and

one of Sarasota’s most well established Italian restaurants. “We do

take advantage of wholesale prices on the smaller wares, the glass-

everything fresh,” says Roberto proudly. “We make our own pasta,

ware and china, along with all the large equipment Fox has to offer.

stocks and sauces. We even go to the extent of filtering our cooking water. Michael added, “It’s the attention to detail that differentiates

KC Fox is an expert in all types of food service equipment and sup-

us.” Café Baci consistently receives rave reviews and accolades from

plies as well. As KC says, “Our goal at Fox is to not only supply the

its patrons and industry experts. The restaurant has a 4.8 rating on

local food service businesses with equipment and supplies, but to

“open table” making Café Baci the second best rated restaurant in

be able to do the design work, all the mechanical engineering that

the larger Tampa Bay area. Café Baci’s recently remodeled 60-seat

needs to be done, as well as the delivery and installation.”

banquet hall is a great choice for meetings and parties.

KC, his wife Tami and their four children have lived in Florida 34 years, Roberto, along with his wife Denise, are leaders in the community

the last 15 of those years in Sarasota. With their children ranging in

and actively support many organizations including the YMCA, Chil-

age from 9 to 19, KC and Tami are very busy parents. They are

dren First, United Cerebral Palsy, Girls Inc., and the Make-a-Wish

very involved in their children’s education as well as with several lo-

Foundation. “I try to set an example for my children and employees

cal charities such as the American Cancer Society, United Cerebral

and to instill virtues like hard work, honesty, integrity and, more than

Palsy, and the University of South Florida, from which KC is an alum-

anything, respect,” Mei says, ”Anyone can run a successful business,

nus. Of his busy life, KC says, “The day will come when Tami and I

but to raise great children and have great employees, that’s the ac-

will be able to slow down and enjoy life more,” but for now, this busy

complishment of which I am most proud.”

entrepreneur and his family will keep running full speed ahead!

4001 South Tamiami Trail | Sarasota, FL 34231 941-921-4848 | www.cafebaci.net

1634 Northgate Blvd. | Sarasota, Fl 34234 941.358.6601

S P E C I A L

P R O M O T I O N

TODD MORTON

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B U S I N E S S

P R O F I L E S

scene | business

�����������

Morton’s Gourmet Market

����������������������������������

Owner of Morton’s Gourmet Market and Sarasota native Todd

Two sisters, a husband wife team and a passion for exotic gems

Morton has seen the evolution of how businesses can change

have evolved into a trendy boutique setting for fine jewelry.

over the years but for his business one thing remains the same.

The importance of using the highest quality products, excep-

Set in the fashionable area of Downtown Sarasota, MK De-

tional customer service, and the convenience of a local market

signs has found a home in The Golden Image Jewelry Store

has always been the top priority.

located at 30 S Palm Avenue. Four partners with a love for the elite, work together to bring innovative and unique designs to

The Florida State University graduate with a degree in Business

life. Rare and exotic Colored Gemstones are the foundation

and Hospitality Administration started his career in management

of the MK Design Line and the hand carved gold settings add

positions with Houston’s Restaurants and J. Alexander’s Cor-

to the allure of exquisite pieces that you simply will not see

poration but coming back to his hometown and being a part of

anywhere else.

the gourmet market that his family started is a dream come true.

“When you grow up in Sarasota and leave you realize how much

Marian Strickland, Gemologist, is an expert in rare and unusual

this area offers. I can’t think of a better place to raise a family,”

Colored Gemstones. She and her partner sister, Pauline Mc-

remarked Morton. He and wife Kristin currently have three chil-

Clendon, individually select each gem used in their designs.

dren (Will-12, Ivy-10, and Rhett-6). Todd enjoys fishing, travel,

Over the past four years, they have developed relationships

and everything culinary.

with some of the finest gemstone dealers in the world. The sisters are currently writing an E Book on an Expert’s Guide to

For more than 40 years, Morton’s Gourmet Market has been

Colored Gemstones, Diamonds and Pearls.

Sarasota’s premier full-service specialty food store and offers a wide variety of products and services. This includes a bak-

Peter and Connie Woodruff, owners of The Golden Image,

ery and coffee shop, prime meats and seafood, chef-prepared

have been in the jewelry business since 1986.

meals, an extensive fine wine selection, gift baskets, cheese and pâtés from around the world, the area’s best deli with custom

Original, Imaginative MK Designs, Exquisite Estate Selections,

sandwiches and assorted salads, gourmet groceries and a full-

Appraisals, Wedding Designs, Custom Designs and Jewelry Re-

service catering department.

pairs truly make their business a mainstay in the jewelry world!

1924 S. Osprey Avenue | Sarasota, FL 34239 (941) 955-9856 | www.mortonsmarket.com

30 South Palm Avenue | Sarasota, FL 34236 941-359-8037 | www.mymkdesigns.com

LOCALLY PRODUCED ORIGINAL PBS SERIES

COMING TO A TV NEAR YOU

By Julie Milton

Recently I sat down with Mark Reese, the creator and co-producer of an exciting TV Series, Diamonds Along the Highway, which will capture the essence of Florida’s people, places and history. His co-producer and the host of the series, Gus Mollasis, is also a contributing SCENE writer.

What prompted you to do a series on Florida stories?

What is the greatest compliment someone can give you

Two things prompted me: a) a chance to explore people and plac-

after they have watched an episode?

es of a state I love, a place I consider home, and b) a chance to

The greatest compliment for me, or any documentary filmmaker, is to

work with Gus Mollasis, who I knew would be a great host and like-minded producer. He’s also my brother from a Greek mother.

What could be better than exploring Florida with your producing partner and best friend?

Where did the name of the series come from?

The name of the series came from Gus’s and my love for Jack Kerouac. Jack was always searching while wondering what lay ahead at the last exit of the journey. He believed if you look deep enough at a long stretch of road a glitter in the asphalt will appear somewhere be-

have someone say three simple words – “I was moved.” Everything is summed up in those meager but very impacted words. Forget hearing it, but how often do we get to say it, and mean it? “I Was Moved.”

What is the format or the show. Is it like Sunday Morning on CBS? The format is whatever the subject tells us it is. It might be as complex as crawling into the crevasses style of filmmaking, or as straight up as a standard documentary. Either way, life and the love of it is the intent.

fore here and the next mile marker. Film, or the only kind that matters, has to do with recognizing the journey and its emotions between the two stops — or as Ken Kesey stated on his magic bus, the “Further.”

The only way to do that is to explore, explore, explore. By exploring the emotions of others, it’s guaranteed you’ll discover something about yourself; or, in Jack-speak, that which winks up at you from the lonesomeness of two-lane highways in the dead of night. That, my friend, should be the goal of any art form.

What feeling do you hope viewers get when they watch the series?

I hope viewers come away with a feeling of the “quiet glitter” (my term), that the sparkle of life is most often trapped in the people and places we take for granted.

Briefly describe why this series is important?

The series is important because this sort of television doesn’t exist, and certainly not with Florida as its focus.

What is your overall feeling on the state of television?

I think television has two profound variables. One, it is a great way to learn about the world at large (or at small); and two, it can be, and usually is, a mind numbing frivolity. Why do you think the Chinese government gave Tibetan radicals free TVs? The jury is still out there.

And the same holds true for the Internet. Both are brilliant tools to explore the human strain only if we let them.

Why PBS? The “P” in PBS stands for “public”, and the public needs a voice in a world controlled by con artists and conglomerates. Think about that the next time you feel the urge to complain about the spring pledge drive.

Tell me a range of the stories that you are covering.

The stories will be as evocative and diverse as a survivor of the Nazis’ death machine to the soulful and artful works of Gale Fulton Ross to the road Jack Kerouac traveled in Florida.

Diamonds Along The Highway will air on PBS and WEDU on the last Thursday of the month at 9:30pm through May 2012.

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scenesarasota.com

Laurel Oak Laurel Oak CountryClub

An Extraordinary Opportunity to Seize Life

Call Us About Our Try-Us-Out Memberships 2700 Gary Player Boulevard Sarasota, FL 34240 941-378-3399 www.laureloak.com Located 1.5 miles east of I-75 on Bee Ridge Road

COUNTRY CLUB A PRIVATE CLUB

scene | health matters

WOMEN OF

SUBSTANCE

By Dr. Alissa Shulman

You need to know that I have never been “skinny” - I

discuss the patient’s expectations and review before and

wouldn’t know what that is like! I have fought weight gain

after photos of similarly built patients to be sure the pro-

since childhood. When I arrived in Sarasota three years

jected results are acceptable.

ago, I had been through two difficult pregnancies, two

The patient of most concern is one whose “BMI” is

prior miscarriages and was at my heaviest. I have lost

over 30 (for the record, this is termed “obese”). Some

much of that weight, but I am far from thin. I share this

physicians are reluctant to operate on the “merely over-

with you and my patients to alleviate the anticipation of

weight” (BMI of 25 to 29.9), but research and personal

being judged.

experience does not show any particular problems with

It is all well and good to say that we want to be “healthy

this weight range.

and happy”, but let’s be honest, we want to look better

Once a patient is comfortable with the “what ifs”, we

too! My wish for my patients is to help them become the

are able to discuss the many procedures that can improve

best version of themselves. Yes, I am a Board Certified

the plus size figure.

Plastic Surgeon (achieved through general and plastic

Let’s start with breasts. Options include an augmen-

surgery training, private practice going on 13 years). How-

tation (implants) if your breast volume is too small; a re-

ever, my background also includes a degree in Fine Arts

duction if the volume is too great; and a mastopexy (lift)

and “Plus Size Modeling”. My interpretation of beauty is

if they are just too droopy. If we are considering recon-

quite “broad”; Barbie is not my ideal.

struction (absent breast from cancer/mastectomy), then

So, what does an overweight patient need to know

the discussion is more complicated. Depending upon the

and what can they expect? An overweight patient has an

course of treatment recommended by a patient’s oncolo-

increased chance of complications across the board. The

gist, etc., we develop the best plan for each individual.

types of complications are fairly predictable and our first

On to the “body” – it’s all about improving the general

goal is to reduce the chance of complications starting be-

shape. Loose skin and excess fat do not look good in or

fore surgery.

out of Floridian clothing. We want to create a smoother sil-

The first complication is Infection. Fungus lurks in skin

houette. If the skin is relatively tight/elastic, then liposuc-

folds, etc. and this can lead to bacterial infections post-

tion alone can help. If excess skin is the primary problem,

operatively. Once we have determined that a patient is a

then abdominoplasty (tummy-tuck) is needed. In the fuller

candidate for surgery, I start them on a course of anti-fun-

figure, a combination of both is usually recommended.

gal cream (usually over the counter).

Hips and thighs usually need liposuction; however,

A second complication could be Delayed Wound

since the inner thigh skin is thin, I am usually conservative

Healing – too much trauma or too much tissue for the

in that area. Aggressiveness in this area can create more

available blood supply. I am always in close contact with

skin folds than can be tolerated under shorts.

my patients and if this can’t be avoided, it can be han-

Surgery cannot create a size “4” from a size “18”.

dled.

The ultimate goal is to create a smoother silhouette

The third complication is Aesthetic Dissatisfaction.

and a patient who carries herself proudly.

The patient just doesn’t like the results! Thankfully, this is not the norm. This happens when a patient has unrealistic

Dr. Alissa Shulman, MD, FACS practices at Sovereign Plastic Surgery.

expectations. To avoid this, we meet (multiple times) and

1921 Waldemere St., Ste. 810, Sarasota. 941.366.5476

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scene | health matters

IS NEWER BETTER?

By Dr. David A. Sugar

In our modern world, changes seem to come at a lightning

that have a proven track record are nonsteroidal anti-inflam-

fast pace. The field of medicine is no exception. Advances in

matory drugs (NSAID), cortisone shots, activity modification

technology, pharmaceutical fields and biomedical science have

and weight loss. It is important to realize, however, that these

led to the best medical care available in the history of mankind.

treatment modalities are utilized in an attempt to minimize ones

This has led to an abundance of different treatment meth-

symptoms. They do not reverse the arthritis. They do not repair

ods in all areas of medicine. When this is combined with the

the cartilage or regrow the cartilage. Supplements such as glu-

plethora of direct to consumer marketing and information on the

cosamine and chondroitin have been widely used for the past

internet, it can be an overwhelming situation for the patient. One

decade or so. The thought being that these are some of the

is left with trying to understand a highly complex scientific issue

main components within cartilage and that if we give the body

in light of modern day “wow factor” marketing techniques. The

more of this, the cartilage could repair and heal. Unfortunately

way that some products are presented it is even more difficult

this is not the case. Chondrocytes (cartilage cells), do not have

to differentiate fact from fiction so is “newer” truly better?

the ability to migrate into areas where there is no cartilage or

In the field of orthopaedics there are two areas where these

even to replicate and heal. Therefore we could give the body as

issues are most prevalent. The area of joint replacements, in

much of their basic elements as possible and the chondrocytes

particular knee replacements, and in the field of arthritis treat-

really can do nothing with it. There are scientific papers now

ments.

that show that supplements really do not do anything to restore

The most recent significant evolution in the field of knee

joint cartilage. This is not to say that some patients don’t get

replacements is in the plastic portion of a knee replacement.

tremendous relief from them. I advise my patients to try them

In the past, the overwhelming majority of times that a knee re-

for three months. If they have good relief to continue using them

placement would wear out was due to the fact that the plastic

and if they don’t, then stop. One may ask why patients get relief

would slowly wear. The new generation of plastics has the po-

from this and it may be nothing more than a placebo effect.

tential to last for decades. One company is even touting their new knee replacement as a “30-year knee”.

Another area that is gaining a lot of press lately is platelet rich plasma or PRP treatments. This is a procedure where ap-

What I found almost amusing is that in their advertisements

proximately one ounce of the patient’s own blood is drawn. This

and their commercials in small print with an asterisk next to it is

is then placed into a centrifuge and spun to the point where the

the word simulated. We certainly cannot say that it would last

blood layers separate into different layers. There is one layer

this long in real life due to the fact that it has only been out for

that has the platelets within it and contains a great number of

a dozen or so years. But until it has been utilized in patients

proteins that effect growth and healing. This is then injected into

for that length of time, there are still a lot of questions to be

various areas of the body. The thought being that by placing

answered. I myself have a knee replacement in place with this

these growth proteins in these areas it will help to regenerate

newer plastic and would love it to last me 30 or more years so I

tissue and heal tissue.

am “cautiously optimistic” .

Two of the most respected orthopaedic journals within the

The other area of interest is different treatment methods

last year have come out with one position that states that this

for the ailment of arthritis. Arthritis is a condition that affects

does absolutely nothing to heal rotator cuff tears and then an-

the joints. Over time, our cartilage slowly wears thin. At the end

other that it can be of use for certain tendonitis conditions such

point the cartilage is gone and the raw bone is exposed and you

as tennis elbow.

may be familiar with the term “bone on bone”.

Currently the non-surgical treatment methods for this scenesarasota.com

I have seen a growing number of advertisements for using this same therapy within the joints such as the knee to regrow February 2012

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103

cartilage. There is no credible scientific evidence that shows that this would actually benefit the patient by regrowing cartilage.

So what is a patient left to do? How is one to wade through the sea of information and marketing that is out there and come to a decision? One thing to keep in mind is that in our country we practice evidence based medicine. Meaning that most of your different fields of medicine and their accrediting academies or accrediting boards only recommend treatment based on true scientific evidence that shows a benefit, certainly a benefit over the risks. So it brings to mind the old adage that if something is too good to be true, it probably is if it does not have true evidence behind it.

Always make sure that your physician is board certified. If you are having any treatment within a particular specialty, be sure that that physician is truly a specialist in that field and even more so board certified within that field.

Ask questions, including the level of experience your physician has in this particular area, information on long-term studies and true peer reviewed evidence-based studies. It is certainly helpful to have done some homework before your doctor’s visit and have some questions ready.

One area that always causes me concern is when I hear of someone receiving treatment from a physician because they are “the only one doing this particular procedure or offering this particular type of treatment.” Healthcare providers do not practice medicine in a void. We are all well aware of standards of care and of new evolving treatment methods. If something is helpful and will work for our patients we are as aware of this as anyone so when someone is telling you that they are the only one offering a particular type of treatment, it always sends up a red flag to me. If it truly was a proven, well-established successful treatment method, why would no one else be offering this?

As physicians we all want our patients to do well. One should ask themselves why other board certified, well educated, well established physicians who only want good outcomes for their patients are not offering these same types of treatment?

With all of this being said, certainly many, if not most, of the advances in medical care are an improvement on how we have done things in the past. Certainly there are plenty of instances where newer is better, but adhering to the principles mentioned above will only serve you well.

David A. Sugar, MD, FAAOS, practices at Sugar Orthopaedics, 1921 Waldemere St, Sarasota. 941.556.6900

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scene | pet health WHEN THE VET SAYS

"IT'S THE BIG C"

By Dr. Anne Chauvet

Cancer is such a dreaded word. While any pet can be affected, some breeds are more prone than others. Boxers have a genetic propensity for cancer, but other breeds like German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Golden Retrievers and Doberman Pinschers also are susceptible. In general, older animals are at more risk than younger ones, but there are exceptions, like lymphoma, which can affect young cats.

Not all tumors and growths are “bad.” Warts (papilloma) for example are benign “cancers.” Lipomas are fatty tumors that mostly are benign and primarily affect older, overweight dogs. The tumors can be large and unsightly and are another good reason to keep your pets at a healthy weight.

As with other areas of human and veterinary medicine, huge advancements have been made over the years in diagnosing and treating cancers. Just as with humans, three things make cancer troublesome in our pets. One is the type of cancer. Is it invasive or a metastatic cancer that spreads easily to other parts of the body? Next is its location. Brain cancers can be difficult depending on where the tumor is located, and liver cancer often spreads aggressively. The third factor relates to how early the cancer is discovered and diagnosed.

When it comes to protecting your pets as best you can, a good, thorough physical exam is crucial. Then, the most useful tests for diagnosing cancer follow the lead of the clinical symptoms. Radiographs of the chest will rule out metastasis to the lungs. An ultrasound of the abdomen may rule out cancer in the liver, spleen and bladder, for example. Sometimes it takes an MRI scan, like for brain or spinal tumors, to find the answer.

Blood work can be useful in diagnosing some cancers, like leukemia. Mostly it tells us if organs are functioning properly, which can be an indirect way to find cancer. If liver enzymes are up, we know to look for liver disease, including possible cancers. Testing cats for feline leukemia is important as it often can predispose cats for certain cancers, particularly lymphoma.

Biopsies then can confirm a suspicion of cancer, at which time treatment options can be considered.

Some people are afraid of chemotherapy for their pets because of potential side effects, but depending on the type of cancers, oral medications and brief injections may be options rather than the type of slow infusions of chemotherapy drugs with which we are more familiar. Plus, pets generally experience fewer side effects than humans because the doses are smaller, and drug combinations are used less frequently.

One of the best things pet owners can do for their dogs and cats is to pet them often and keep a close eye on their routines. Be sure to check ears, mouth and belly carefully for growths or lumps as well as pain and discomfort. Any pet that slows down, vomits, becomes weak or develops lumps or growths needs to see the vet for an early diagnosis. Always remember that an early diagnosis means the best chance for a cure.

Dr. Anne Chauvet, a veterinary neurologist and neurosurgeon, is founder of Critical Care & Veterinary Specialists of Sarasota located at 4937 S. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota. For information or questions, contact criticalvetcare@gmail.com.

scenesarasota.com

The

Collectors Wall

Whether you are an art connoisseur or novice interior designer or browser, The Collectors Wall is your destination for fabulous art. According to owners Len and Kaye Gionfriddo, this is a working gallery, not a museum. We welcome everyone, knowledgeable or not. Our goal is to make people comfortable, to help them ďŹ nd the artist of their choice at a price they can afford.

Beautifully framed original paintings and graphics adorn the walls of the gallery. Royo, Didier, Arvid, Sabzi, and Hessam are just a few of the artists represented at the Collectors Wall. The distinctive styles of the artists, which include internationally recognized and local painters, provide an array of choices. Although considered a contemporary gallery, The Collectors Wall carries traditional and other genres as well.

In addition to original artwork, the Gionfriddo family has brought the wholesale showroom concept to the gallery offering an abundance of unframed reproductions, graphics and posters. Prices can range from $25 for a poster to $10,000 or more for an original piece. To enhance your selection and satisfy your personal taste, the gallery can frame your art to museum standards and has frame choices for every budget. Len’s son-in-law, Tom Brothers, manages the custom framing department and oversees all framing production, including custom mirrors.

The Collectors Wall is a family business and is managed by Len and Kaye’s son Gregg. The Gallery has served the Sarasota area since 1975. Located in the Paradise Plaza, the gallery is a mecca for interior designers and for numerous commercial enterprises. The designers often use the gallery as a showroom. They are up to date with art that people like. They know the trends and buy at major shows, which are open to art dealers only. Each year they look for new artists to introduce to the area.

For more information please call The Collectors Wall at 941-927-2643 or visit their store in person at 3800 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34239.

scene | locally

NEWS SHAPING

OUR COMMUNITY CHILDREN FIRST RECEIVES GRANT FROM HARRY SUDAKOFF FOUNDATION Children First received a grant of $10,000 from the Harry Sudakoff Foundation that will provide full-day child care scholarships for children of parents who are working or going to school to earn a degree. Children First serves over 600 of our county’s neediest children, ages birth – five years. childrenfirst.net

2012 COST-SHARING GRANTS NOW AVAILABLE FROM CENTER FOR FAITH AND FREEDOM CFF is accepting grant applications for its 2012 projects. CFF will offer a limited number of non-profit organizations a cost-sharing grant that will subsidize a percentage of the production costs associated with a video presentation. CFF’s affiliate Salt & Light Productions has been the recipient of 2 Emmy and 26 Telly Awards, and is widely-recognized as the premier production company serving the non-profit community. Applications must be received by February 10, 2012. faithandfreedom.org

EDUCATION FOUNDATION NAMES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR The Education Foundation of Sarasota County appointed Susan Scott as the nonprofit’s new executive director. Scott was Sarasota County government’s deputy administrator from 2003 to 2011. At the county, she developed and implemented a series of initiatives that received national attention, including a collaborative of nonprofits that allocated millions of dollars in federal funding for housing. Edfoundation.net

GULF COAST GRANTS $374,521 TO TARGET SOCIAL-SERVICE DELIVERY The Board of Directors of Gulf Coast Community Foundation approved 10 grants totaling $374,521 to local nonprofit organizations at its December meeting. Several grants aim to strengthen social-service delivery in the region, a critical priority identified by the Gulf Coast Board for the foundation’s grantmaking this year. In the past three years, Gulf Coast has granted more than $11 million to meet the community’s most pressing health and human service needs. gulfcoastcf.org

JEWISH FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SERVICE SELECTED FOR CUTTING-EDGE PROJECT JFCS was recently awarded a $100,000 grant from the national membership organization the Alliance for Children and Families to implement a multi-year pilot project meant to explore, test, and gain understanding of

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the elevation of strategy within nonprofit human service agencies. The Alliance, headquartered in Milwaukee, is one of the nation’s largest membership associations of private, nonprofit human service organizations. jfcs-cares.org

NEW COLLEGE OF FLORIDA AND NEW COLLEGE FOUNDATION ANNOUNCE NEW TRUSTEES Bradford B. Baker of Venice and Steven L. Snyder of Sarasota have each been appointed to the Board of Trustees of New College of Florida. Current trustees include Robert M. Johnson, Elaine M. Keating, Rick Coe, Audrey R. Coleman, William R. Johnston, Keith D. Monda, Oliver Peckham, J. Robert Peterson, Mary Ruiz, John W. Saputo and Felice Schulaner. Howard P. Isermann has been named chair of the New College Foundation Board of Trustees. ncf.edu/foundation

SCBB AWARDED WILLIAM G. AND MARIE SELBY FOUNDATION GRANT The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation awarded Suncoast Communities Blood Bank $75,000 toward the purchase of a new bloodmobile.

Sixty percent of SCBB’s blood collection comes from over 1,000 community blood drives held each year. With the recent expansion south, a new bloodmobile will enable SCBB to add 200 blood drives annually to meet the increased need. scbb.org

LWR NEW HOME SALES SURPASS RESALES IN 2011 Bucking state and national real estate trends, Lakewood Ranch Communities more than doubled its new home sales over 2010, ending the year with 391 new home sales in LWR for 2011, a 71 percent increase from 2010. Of the LWR homes sold last year, 56 percent were new and 44 percent were resales. The average sales price of a new home in LWR last year was $397,149 – more than double the median home sale price in the two county Sarasota/Manatee region of $150,097. lakewoodranch.com

SARASOTA PROPERTY SALES UP 8.2 % FOR 2011 For 2011, the Sarasota Association of Realtors® reported a jump of 8.2 percent to 8,224, achieving the highest level since 2005. Inventory fell to a 10-year low of 4,408 in August 2011. Inventory has also dropped and now stands at 6.3 months for single family homes and 9.2 months for condos. A figure of 6 months is considered equilibrium between a buyer’s and a seller’s market. scenesarasota.com

The All New The All New

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26FS 26FS

30FS/T 30FS/T

34FS/T 34FS/T

38FS/T/ CUDDY 38FS/T/ CUDDY

39EX 39EX

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2194 Trade Center Way Naples, Florida 34109