40 YEARS CELEBRATING A COMMUNITY ICON Michael Saunders & Son Drayton Reflect On Their Journey & Success As They Look Ahead To The Future
FEBRUARY 2016 $3.95 U.S.
Movers & Shakers | City Pulse | The State Of Our Well-Being
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Stroll Historic Palm Avenue and shop with some of Sarasota’s finest collection of merchants. Discover exceptional fine jewelry, fine art galleries, rare oriental carpets, exquisite home accessories and much more. Palm Avenue’s First Friday Walks are from 6 till 9 pm. Enjoy shopping, dining and live performances. w w w . P a l m A v e n u e . o r g
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City Life February 2016
Volume 59 No. 2
52
60
52 40 & Forward Community Icon Michael Saunders and Son Drayton Celebrate 40 Years By Sue Cullen
60 CITY PULSE City Scenes that Entertain, Excite and Amuse Photographer: John Revisky
70 MOVERS & SHAKERS People, Ideas and Initiatives Shaping Our Community
80 THE STATE OF OUR WELL-BEING The Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index Ranks North Port – Sarasota – Bradenton Number One
85 AFTER DARK Fun Places to Mix & Mingle for the Under 30 Crowd By Elizabeth Brissette, Colleen Fortier, Chloe Jing & Sogn Zamrzla
cover Cover Photo of Michael Saunders and Drayton Saunders by John Revisky.
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The Bellwether Group at Morgan Stanley 2016 Speaker Series Save the Date As one of the top advisory teams on the Gulf Coast, the Bellwether Group at Morgan Stanley continues to strive to bring you engaging speakers on timely topics. Wednesday, February 10, 2016
David Darst
Senior Advisor Morgan Stanley Wealth Management Global Investment Committee Saving Your Assets: The Power of Asset Allocation in Wealth Preservation RSVP Required 941-363-8514 or rochelle.nigri@morganstanley.com
Tuesday, March 1, 2016
April 2016
Carla Harris
Harold Ford Jr.
Vice Chairman Wealth Management Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley The Power of Women and Wealth: Preparing for the Future
Vice Chairman, Senior Client Relationship Manager Morgan Stanley 2016 Election Update
The Bellwether Group at Morgan Stanley 2 N. Tamiami Trail, Suite 1100 Sarasota, FL 34236 www.morganstanleyfa.com/bellwethergroup
Kathy Francoletti CTFA,® Sr. Vice President; Richard T. Williams III CFA,® Sr. Vice President, Financial Advisor; Scott L. Rockwell, Vice President, Financial Advisor; Aimee Cogan, CFP,® CIMA,® Managing Director — Wealth Management, Family Wealth Director, Wealth Advisor
Follow us
@BellwetherMSWM
The guest speaker is neither an employee nor affiliated with Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. Opinions expressed by the guest speaker are solely his own and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP,® CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the US. Investment Management Consultants Association, Inc. owns the marks CIMA,® Certified Investment Management AnalystSM (with graph element),® and Certified Investment Management Analyst.SM © 2016 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
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DEPARTMENTS
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SOCIALS 20 Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s Women’s Day 22 JFCS Reflections Gala: Celebrating 30 Years with a Caring Community 23 La Musica’s Sonata a Due 24 Sarasota Ballet’s Holiday Showcase Luncheon
GIVING 96 Saving Florida, One Person at a Time By Ryan Van Cleave
100 For the Love of Giving The Louis & Gloria Flanzer Philanthropic Trust at Jewish Family & Children’s Service of the Suncoast By Ryan G. Van Cleave
28 EVENTS CALENDAR 37 PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR 45 DESIGN Paving the Way By Jacqueline Miller
48 GET INSPIRED
103 EDUCATION USF Sarasota-Manatee’s College of Science & Mathematics By Ryan G. Van Cleave
105 THE BUZZ AROUND TOWN With Sarasota’s Busiest Bee Suzette Jones
Cultural Happenings from the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County
109 LITERARY SCENE
89 SCENES FROM AN INTERVIEW
114 REWIND
Frank Galati
A Look Back Through SCENE’s Archives
By Gus Mollasis
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February 2016
By Ryan G. Van Cleave
Right Where You Want To Be! Overlooking the bayfront, just minutes from all the shopping, dining, theatre, and arts that make downtown so special, Sarasota Bay Club offers outstanding services and amenities that are personalized to fit your lifestyle. From complimentary valet parking to fine dining, the freedom to design the ideal retirement lifestyle is all yours. Sarasota Bay Club ownership is carefree, with all maintenance included, and complete health care and rehabilitation services conveniently located on-site.
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Tatiana Palnitska Trunk Show February 18 & 19, 2016 10am – 6pm
“I create for the woman who is not afraid to self-express, and since no two women are alike, no two garments for them to wear should be alike, and that is the main philosophy behind my creations. Each day is an inspired journey into the unknown the infamous ‘blank canvas’ and each piece is completely unique, ‘edition 1 of 1’ in art terms, never repeated, painstakingly crafted by hand, with emphasis on texture, lines, fluidity, and overall expression.”
- Tatiana Palnitska
364 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota 941-388-1974 dreamweavercollection.com Like Us On Facebook Customer Parking Behind Store
FROM THE EXECUTIVE EDITOR
T
he sleepy beach town that was the Sarasota
of yesteryear sleeps no more. Our burgeoning downtown, new shopping that rivals most
big cities, residential growth east of I-75, and new sports facilities are impressive. This metamorphose was fueled by philanthropists and business leaders, our vibrant arts community, the pronouncement in the last decade of Siesta Beach as the number one beach in the country, and our overall vivacity and beauty leaving no doubt that Sarasota/Bradenton is a top choice to live and vacation. But in 1976, when Sarasota was still a sleepy
beach town, a forward thinking businesswoman helped awaken the sleeping giant. Today, this woman’s name appears on 26 offices from Boca Grande to Bradenton, and she has influenced real estate in our market like no other, bringing Sarasota/Bradenton national and international prominence. She is Michael Saunders and we are delighted to feature her story as she celebrates 40 years of success and outstanding achievements. And all these years later, Michael Saunders, together with her son, Drayton, is still moving and shaking things in this town helping to bring our community to even greater prominence. In our City Life issue, photographer John Revisky captures eclectic scenes around town that excite, amuse and entertain and also showcase the artistic talents of young adults determined to make a name for themselves so they can continue to call Sarasota home. Speaking of young adults, three Ringling College students tell us where twenty-somethings go in their article “After Dark.” I think you will be surprised by some of their picks! This article is part of SCENE Magazine’s participation in Ringling College’s Collaboratory plan, which provides Ringling College students with real-life work experience. And just how do the people who live here feel about their daily lives? Apparently quite good. In the latest Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index for the 100 most populous communities, North Port – Sarasota – Bradenton ranked number one in the country for well-being, with the elements of well-being being purpose, social, financial, community and physical. Not surprising news to me! Most of us have heard of lists published by various media awarding businesses “best” awards and most of us are smart enough to know the results are typically biased toward advertisers or businesses they hope to get as advertisers. SCENE doesn’t engage in this type of contest; however, we did, just this once, ask six influential people in town to submit their choices for the people, ideas, and initiatives that are making the most impact right now. When I saw the selections, I knew they got it right. Take a look at “Movers & Shakers” in this issue to find out who and what is shaping our future right now. February is from the Latin februare, which means “to purify.” And while it is the shortest month of the year, it is the month of love with Valentine’s Day, and the month we celebrate two presidents – Good Old Abe and George. No, not Bush, silly, Washington. It is also the month of Groundhog Day (February 2), which is when, according to folklore, a little groundhog comes out of his hole. If this critter sees its shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter weather. No shadow means an early spring. Well, we don’t need Groundhog Day in our town to tell us, Sarasota always has spring weather in February. What a city, what a time, what a life we have here.
Always,
julie@scenesarasota.com
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The Best Orthopedic Care More Agile As an established regional referral center for Orthopedics, Sarasota Memorial and its experienced surgeons specialize in the most advanced joint repair and replacement procedures. Now the best Orthopedic care is located on the top floor of our new Courtyard Tower. Private rooms are spacious, healing and high-tech. A new physical therapy gym promotes post-surgery recovery and patients have our highly trained care team as their partners every step of the way. The best orthopedic care is now more agile than ever – and so are our patients.
Look Inside: www.smh.com/ortho
INK, SILK AND GOLD:
ISLAMIC ART FROM THE MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS, BOSTON EXHIBITION OPENS FEB 5 This exhibition features magnificent works of art including silver inlaid metal work, exquisite manuscripts, brocaded velvets, luster-painted ceramics, and more, offering a window into many different facets of the dynamic and complex artistic traditions of the Islamic world.
WHAT’S ON
DISCOVER
This exhibition was organized by the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.
UNSTRUCK by Kate Weare Company FEB 12 & 13, 7:30 PM For her third New Stages engagement, Weare delves deeper into her exploration of spontaneous movement.
CONVERSATION WITH KATE WEARE COMPANY FEB 13, 2:00 PM The artists of Kate Weare Company share insights into Weare’s choreographic style as it has developed and evolved since the Company’s first New Stages engagement in 2011.
RIAF 2016 FIRST TO KNOW
Sponsored by:
FEB 24, 7:30 PM
Support for this exhibition was provided in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax revenues, Saks Fifth Avenue, the Arthur F. and Ulla R. Searing Endowment, and the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation Endowment.
Be among the First to Know our exciting plans for the 2016 Ringling International Arts Festival (RIAF). First to Know attendees will also enjoy First in Line priority ticketing when RIAF tickets go on sale following the program. Above: Darbar of Jahangir (detail), about 1628. Ink, color, and gold on paper, 35 x 20 cm, Northern India. Francis Bartlett Donation of 1912 and Picture Fund. Photograph © 2015 Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
DISCOVER MORE
ringling.org
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362 DAYS A YEAR!
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MORE THAN JUST RUGS! Locally Owned, Operated & Printed Since 1957 CEO/President
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6650 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 941.921.1900 www.rugsasart.com
February 2016
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SCENE Magazine publishes 12 issues a year by RJM Ventures, LLC. Address editorial, advertising and circulation correspondence to the above address. Sufficient return postage and self-addressed, stamped envelope must accompany all manuscripts, art work and photographs submitted if they are to be returned or acknowledged. Publisher assumes no responsibility for care of return of unsolicited materials. Subscription price: $12.95 per year, $19.95 for two years. All contents copyrighted. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. ISSN 1535-8895.
Social Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee Women’s Day At The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s annual Women’s Day event, Academy-Award winning actress Marlee Matlin captured the audience of 430 with her stories of not letting deafness stand in her way of becoming a successful actress and the “Matlin chutzpah” that guided her. In her talk, interpreted by Jack Jason, she spoke of living generously and doing good deeds. She left the audience with the inspirational message that there are no obstacles in life; there are only challenges to overcome.
Photos by Nancy Guth
Sepi & Barbara Ackerman with Frances Ziefer
Marlee Matlin
Lynn Carvel, Audrey Landers & Anne Spindel
Susan Mallitz, Toby Simon & Edie Chaifetz
Elaine Weill & Bunny Skirball
ONE LIFESTYLE. ONE CHOICE. ONE PALM.
RESERVE YOUR HOME TODAY AT WWW.ONEPALMSARASOTA.COM | 941-234-4063 20
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February 2016
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343 Interstate Blvd. • Sarasota • 941.342.0900 Moving TO THE SQUARE AT UTC! Call ahead for CORRECT location or ask about FREE in-home consultations Moving to: 5405 University Pkwy. • University Park • Mon-Fri: 9-5, Sat 10-3 Next to the new Newks Eatery, Keke’s Breakfast Cafe and Oak & Stone
utc
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SQUARE AT
UNIVERSITY TOWN CENTER
Social JFCS Reflections Gala: Celebrating 30 Years with a Caring Community JFCS recently celebrated its Thirtieth Anniversary at the RitzCarlton, Sarasota with over 545 guests. The theme of the Gala was Reflections – Celebrating 30 Years with a Caring Community. Cochairs were Debbie Haspel and Susan Mallitz. The Orchestra, led by conductor Dirk Meyer, entertained guests with music that celebrated the work of JFCS throughout the years and reminded the crowd that the whole community works together to help each other. Another milestone was recognized, as this was the tenth anniversary of the Gala featuring the Orchestra which has been sponsored by Bea Friedman and the Friedman Family. Photos by Nancy Guth
David & Wyant with Dottie & Bob Garner
Susan Mallitz & Debbie Haspel
Betty Schoenbaum & Bea Friedman
Eve & Marc Kanoff
Sydney & Jerome Goldstein
AJC WEST COAST FLORIDA 2016 NATIONAL HUMAN RELATIONS AWARD DINNER HONORING
DAVID & EDIE CHAIFETZ WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2016
6:00 PM Cocktails • 6:45 PM Dinner Michael’s On East, Sarasota Florida DINNER CHAIRS
Tom & Karen Bernstein • Marilyn Shuman • Noel & Toby Siegel KEYNOTE SPEAKER
David Harris, AJC Executive Director, Edward and Sandra Meyer Office of the Executive Director
SPONSORSHIP AND TICKET INFORMATION: Brian Lipton, AJC Regional Director: 941.365.4955 or liptonb@ajc.org | AJC.ORG
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Social La Musica’s Sonata a Due More than 100 guests attended La Musica’s annual Sonata a Due to mark the beginning of its upcoming milestone 30th anniversary season in 2016. Patrons enjoyed an evening of beautiful music and wonderful food amid friends and fellow chamber music enthusiasts. An outstanding performance by Federico Agostini, violin, and Derek Han, piano, featured sonatas by Mozart, Schumann, and Beethoven. SCENE Magazine was the event media sponsor.
Photos by Nancy Guth
Hillary Steele & Renee Hamad
Federico Agostini & Derek Han
Helga & Jerry Bilik
John & Donna Moffitt
John & Carol Woods
20%
OFF g in n Ope d n e k e e W s t e Tick
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TICKETS: 941-355-9805 H CircusArts.org February 2016
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Social Sarasota Ballet’s Holiday Showcase Luncheon Friends of The Sarasota Ballet held its Holiday Showcase Luncheon at Michael’s On East, featuring a 25th Anniversary presentation honoring past presidents of Friends of The Sarasota Ballet. Event proceeds, including funds raised from the silent auction’s delightful holiday gift baskets, will be donated to The Sarasota Ballet Education Scholarships. Honorary chairs were Ann Sundeen, 1989 Ambassadors president, Donna Maytham, 2007 Association president, and Jerry Genova, 2012 Friends president. Artists Series of Sarasota pianist Lee Dougherty Ross entertained. Photos by Nancy Guth
Iain Webb & Hillary Steele
Kim Wheeler, Renee Hamad & Tracy Seider
Lauren Walsh & Gudrun Graugaard
Bev Crawford, Helen McBean & Dr. Elaine Zwelling
Dick & Marsha Johnson
Picking the right school at the start can lead to some colorful choices.
Saint Stephen’s is an independent, college-preparatory school providing a world-class education for students in grades Pre-K3 to12. Schedule a tour today. 315 41st St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209 | (941) 746-2121 | www.saintstephens.org
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MALL AT UNIVERSITY TOWN CENTER CENTER COURT • 941.893.3948
Integrity Wealth Management
Taking a Personalized Approach to a Secure Retirement Helping clients successfully make the transition to retirement, and preserve the lifestyle they desire, has been the goal of Integrity Wealth Management’s highly personalized, independent financial advisory services since 2004. A specialization in long-term, low-risk investments intended to grow and preserve wealth along with a pledge to do what is best for each client has allowed Integrity Wealth Management to build long-term relationships with clients. “We work with many baby boomers to help them transfer from their work years to their retirement years, and we want to be sure we address the perils of retirement, which are different from when they were working,” said Sam Cione, founder of Integrity Wealth Management. “Because we are independent and don’t have to offer products off a menu, we can craft a personalized retirement plan for each individual that takes greater risk management and preservation of funds into account. I am a fiduciary, which holds me to a significantly higher standard than a stockbroker in terms of acting in my clients’ interests, and I take that responsibility very seriously.” Cione founded Integrity Wealth Management after seeing the devastation wreaked on people’s portfolios, and their retirement dreams, in the wake of the terrorist attacks in 2001. “Following the 2001 attacks, some advisors were directed to call clients and convince them not to get out of the market. That didn’t sit well with me because I felt corporate profits were being put ahead of clients’ needs. That’s not something I could do and still look at myself in the mirror, so I chose to become independent,” he said. “If you are working and your 401k drops, it may or may not be a significant problem. If you are in retirement, it is a problem.”
Understanding the risks associated with various investments and how to manage those risks is a crucial part of Cione’s responsibilities as Integrity Wealth Management’s portfolio manager. Another key factor in developing personalized plans for clients is to understand their personal risk tolerance. “We always focus on risk management. The stock market is a tool to get many people where they need to go, but before you get into the market, you should always know how, when, and where you plan to get out,” Cione said. “Being independent means that I can take people in similar situations, position one person in the stock market or bonds, another in fixed annuities and another in CDs. We provide options in every asset class and determine what is best for them.” Cione’s experience allows him to take a comprehensive approach to clients’ financial needs by addressing retirement income, wealth preservation, life insurance and annuities, and helping clients manage perils such as lawsuits and the need for long term care. He holds both a Florida insurance and securities license in addition to having 15 years of experience in the financial services industry. Cione began his career with a large national financial institution while still in college, and with encouragement from the company, he became a financial advisor. Integrity Wealth Management has also established strategic partnerships with local accountants and attorneys to create tax-efficient plans for distributions and estate plans to ensure clients’ wishes regarding loved ones or favorite charities are honored. Crafting a personalized financial plan is just the beginning. “On average, we call our clients 15 times and see them seven times a year, and many of them have been with us over a decade because they appreciate our ongoing service,” Cione said. “We have one person whose only role is to make sure clients are happy – whether that’s by answering questions as to their financial portfolio, providing helpful referrals for health or auto insurance or even recommending a good local restaurant.” Integrity Wealth Management also hosts a wide range of events for clients. In addition to holding five educational events annually on relevant topics, clients get to know each other at holiday parties, wine and whiskey tastings, and LeBarge cruises. Cione also believes in being a good corporate citizen by supporting local nonprofits such as All Faiths Food Bank and Habitat for Humanity and is a member of the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, Better Business Bureau, and the Elks. “Stewardship is why we do a lot of what we do. We support our local restaurants through the eat local movement, and we host an event at Big Cat Habitat every year, which is a great cause. Since many of our clients have moved here, these events introduce them to great things to do in the community with friends and family,” Cione said. “All of that is important to us. Sarasota is a small town, and we’ve been here for 12 years because we run our business with integrity and a family flair. We let our reputation speak for itself.” Integrity Wealth Management is registered as an investment advisor with the state of Florida. The firm only transacts business in states where it is properly registered, or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements. Registration as an investment advisor does not constitute an endorsement of the firm by securities regulators and does not indicate that the advisor has attained a particular level of skill or ability. All investment strategies have the potential for profit or loss.
941-955-2700 | iwmfl.com
February Calendar
For a complete listing of community events please visit scenesarasota.com Photo by John Revisky
Goodwill Manasota Mardi Gras Gala February 4 Michael’s on East 6:00 pm. Enjoy New Orleans-style food and entertainment complete with a king and queen crowning, colorful characters, and beads galore. Tickets $175 | 941.355.2721 x104 | experiencegoodwill.org
9th Annual Grand Ovation at Lakewood Ranch February 6 LWR Main St. 11:00 am. Family-friendly event celebrating the area’s finest musicians, singers, dancers and drama troupes. Lakewoodranch.com/mainstreet
Venice YMCA’s Gatsby Gala February 6 Venice YMCA 6:00 pm. Black Tie event with dinner, music and dancing. Proceeds benefit the Children & Families Scholarship Fund and programs at the Venice YMCA. Tickets: $175 | 941.375.9108 | veniceymca.org
Conservation Foundation’s Palm Ball February 6 Bay Preserve in Osprey 6:30 pm. Cocktails, dinner, and dancing under the stars by the bay. Benefits Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast. 941.918.2100 | conservationfoundation.com
JFED’s An Evening With Ehud Barak February 8 Hyatt Regency 7:00 pm. Former Prime Minister of Israel and most decorated solider in Israel’s history. Tickets: $18 | 941.371.4546 | jfedsrq.org
Bethesda House Mardi Gras Madness February 9 Michael’s on East 6:00 pm. An exciting evening of dinner, dancing, and Mardi Gras festivities. All proceeds benefit Bethesda House. Tickets $150 | 941.355.4680 x305 | catholiccharitiesdov.org
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53rd Annual Sarasota Shell Show February 11 – 13 Bradenton Area Convention Center. One of the largest shell shows in the world. Beautiful shell crafts and rare shell exhibits from around the world. Admission $5 | sarasotashellclub.com
Sarasota Garden Club’s Tutta Bella Fashion Show February 12 The Hyatt Regency Ballroom 11:00 am. Featuring exciting fashions from various shops in the local area and guest speaker Sigrid Olsen. Tickets: $45 | 941.955.0875 | sarasotagardenclub.org
7th Annual Tidewell Hospice Signature Luncheon February 12 The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota 11:30 am. Keynote speaker is Joan Lunden, former host of Good Morning America, entrepreneur, and health and wellness advocate. Book signing will follow after luncheon. Tickets: $100 | 941.552.7660 | tidewell.org
Selby Gardens’ Orchid Ball February 13 Selby Gardens 6:00 pm. Proceeds support Selby Gardens’ education programs, botanical displays, and research. Tickets: $350 | 941.366.5731 | selby.org
Florida Winefest & Auction Art of the Heart Wine Dinner February 13 Mattison’s Forty-One 6:30 pm. Sam Williamson of Williamson Wines guides guests through a multi-course wine-pairing dinner created by Chef Paul Mattison. Tickets: $125 | 941.952.1109 | FloridaWinefest.org
28th Annual Downtown Sarasota Festival of the Arts February 13 – 14 Main Street, downtown Sarasota 10:00 am. Festival will include paintings, sculptures, photography, ceramics, glass, wood, handmade jewelry, and more. artfestival.com
Gulf Coast Community Foundation Better Together Luncheon February 15 The Ritz-Carlton. Featuring guest speaker entrepreneur Daymond John. Tickets $60 | 941.486.4600 | gulfcoastcf.org
Sarasota Ballet’s Showcase Luncheon February 15 Michael’s on East 11:30 am. Featuring former dancers of The Sarasota Ballet from past eras. Tickets: $35 | 941.923.0298 | sarasotaballet.org
First Step of Sarasota’s Caring Hearts Luncheon February 17 Michael’s on East 11:00 am. Benefits First Step‘s Mothers and Infants program. 941.552.2065 | fsos.org
SPARCCle on the Runway Fashion Show & Luncheon February 17 Ritz Carlton-Sarasota 11:00 am. Benefits Safe
Bound for Broadway following its Sarasota run. Secure your tickets now. April 27 – May 29 941-351-8000 asolorep.org Deborah Cox as Josephine Baker. Photo by Mike Ruiz. © Deco Recording Group, LLC.
ASOLO REP Sponsored by
February 2016
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Place and Rape Crisis Center. Tickets: $125 | 941.365.0208
6th Annual Orioles Reach Birdland Golf Classic
x144 | sparcc.net
February 22 The Founders Club 11:00 am. Tournament followed by cocktails, dinner and silent auction. Proceeds benefit Miracle
28th Annual Venice Italian Feast & Carnival
League of Manasota. 941.737.7579 | miracleleaguemanasota.org
February 18 – 21 Venice Florida Airport Festival Grounds. Enjoy food, live entertainment, and carnival rides. Purchase tick-
Historic Spanish Point’s Enchanted Luncheon
ets for food and rides. Free admission | Parking $5 | italiana-
February 23 Michael’s on East 11:00 am. Proceeds benefit the programs
mericanclubofvenice.com
of Historic Spanish Point. 941.966.5214 | historicspanishpoint.org
Sarasota Exotic Car Fest
Make-A-Wish’s 6th Annual Cooking for Wishes
February 19 – 21 Various locations and times. Interactive
February 25 Michael’s on East 11:00 am. Guests will prepare
cocktail theater, downtown Sarasota concourse, road rally,
a four-course meal led by Executive Chef, Jamil Piñeda. Tickets
and more. Benefits United Cerebral Palsy of Southwest Florida.
$150 | 941.952.9474 | cookingforwishes.com
941.348.9039 | sarasotaexoticcarfest.com
Our Mother’s House Wine Tasting, Auction & Dinner Dance SCF Foundation’s Avenues des Artistes
February 25 Plantation Golf & Country Club, Venice 5:30 pm. En-
February 20 SCF Bradenton Campus 6:00 pm. Stroll the bright-
joy wine tasting, auctions, dinner and dancing. Proceeds benefit
ly colored streets of Madrid, London, and Florence and dine
Our Mother’s House, a program of Catholic Charities, Diocese of
on gourmet delights and enjoying music and artwork from SCF
Venice, Inc. Tickets: $80 | 941.485.6264 | catholiccharitiesdov.org
students. Tickets: $125 | 941.752.5390 | scffoundation.net
Junior League’s Simply Sarasota Tour of Homes ARC’s Unconditional Love Gala
February 26 – 27 10:00 am. Tour some of Sarasota’s finest
February 20 Michael’s on East 6:30 pm. Featuring cocktails,
homes. Guests will also be treated to culinary, art, floral/land-
dinner, dancing, and a live and silent auction. Tickets: $250 |
scaping, decorating demonstrations, food tastings, and more.
941.957.1955 | animalrescuecoalition.org
941.953.5600 | jlsarasota.org
2016 Evening of Excellence La Dolce Vita Gala Recognizing the value of arts in education by celebrating the work of exceptional student artists through a lively gala and art auction.
February 26, 2016 6 pm Cocktails r 7 pm Dinner Hyatt Regency Sarasota Patron ticket $250 r Individual $200 For Reservations 941-927-0965 www.EdFoundation.net 30
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February 2016
Timing is everything!
Audit | Accounting | Consulting | Tax Mauldin & Jenkins is a leader in providing audit, tax and consulting services to not-for-profit organizations in Florida, and throughout the Southeast. We serve over 40 not-for-profit organizations in Manatee and Sarasota Counties. There’s no better time to see how we can help your organization exceed your goals, overcome challenges and take advantage of unique opportunities!
Brian Carter, CPA | Partner bcarter@mjcpa.com Melodie Rich, CPA | Director mrich@mjcpa.com
941-747-4483 | mjcpa.com
1401 Manatee Avenue West | Ste 1200 Bradenton, FL 34205
At HarborChase, our compassionate and dedicated care partners have created a soothing and tranquil atmosphere designed to ensure that residents enjoy optimal health, dignity and spiritual well-being, providing family members with true peace of mind. Every day, our care partners strive to make a difference in the lives of our residents and family members by providing meaningful and nurturing care that truly transcends the expected. For more information: (941) 468-2838 | www.HarborChase.com
5311 Proctor Road Sarasota, FL 34233 Assisted Living Facility #12753
Education Foundation’s Evening of Excellence Gala
JHCF’s Eight Over 80
February 26 Hyatt Sarasota 6:00 pm. Art pieces from area
February 28 Michael’s on East 10:30 am. Honoring eight se-
high school students are sold to the highest bidder at a live-
niors of our local community. Benefits the Kobernick House.
ly auction following a gourmet dinner. Proceeds provide
Tickets: $125 | 941.377.0781 x124 | kobernickanchin.org
scholarships to student artists and monetary awards to high school art departments. Tickets: $200/$250 | 941.927.0965 |
Van Wezel Foundation’s 15th Annual Gala
edfoundation.net
February 28 Van Wezel 5:00 pm. Hollywood-style gala with a cocktail reception, live & silent auction, dinner, a live perfor-
7th Annual Ponies for Pups
mance by Josh Groban, and a pass to an exclusive after party.
February 27 Sarasota Polo Club 11:00 am. Polo match, silent
Tickets: $475/$650 | 941.366.5578 | vwfoundation.org
auction and more. Benefits Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue. Tickets: $10 - $75 | 941.302.0933 | honoranimalrescue.org
Archie Griffin Celebrity Golf Classic February 29 – March 1 Concession Golf Club. Golf and min-
American Cancer Society’s Big Top Gala
gle with two-time Heisman Trophy winner Archie Griffin and a
February 27 FELD Entertainment Studios, Palmetto 6:30 pm.
star-studded field of his celebrity friends. Benefits The Boys &
Enjoy an elegant evening featuring exquisite dining, a live auc-
Girls Clubs of Sarasota County. Golf, Dinner and Pairings Par-
tion, energetic entertainment and magical surprises. Tickets:
ty. Sponsorships available. Tickets: Individual Player - $1500;
$250 | 941.328.3760 | bigtopgala.org
Pairing Party tickets $200 | 941.907.0018 | BGCSarasota.com | concessioncharities.org
Sarasota Invitational Regatta February 27 – 28 Benderson Park World Class Rowing and
Sarasota Ballet’s 25th Anniversary Gala
Aquatic Sports Center. Featuring over 1,500 rowers in Youth,
February 29 FSU Center for Performing Arts 6:30. Celebrate
Masters and Adaptive Rowing from the southeastern United
the Ballet’s 25th anniversary with dinner and a performance.
States. Free admission, parking $5 | sarasotainvitational.com
Tickets: $500 | 941.225.6510 | sarasotaballet.org
2033 Vamo Way, Sarasota RoesslersRestaurant.com 941-966-5688
Traditional Continental Cuisine. Award Winning Wine List. Awarded One of Sarasota’s Most Romantic Restaurant. Casual Bistro Dining Available. Elegant Grounds for Special Occasions. Dinner Tuesday – Sunday 5pm February 2016
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LIVE CHAMPIONSHIP GREYHOUND RACING Matinee Races Monday thru Saturday 12:30pm Evening Races Friday & Saturday 7:30pm 50¢ Friday Matinees 50¢ Admission • Budweiser Beer • Hot Dog & Soda *concession stands only
Super Saturday Dollar Nights $1 12oz Budweiser Beer • Hot Dog • 16oz Soda *concession stands only
Live Simulcast Horse & Dog Racing Year Round • Matinee & Evenings
ONE EYED JACK’S POKER ROOM Hours Sunday: 12pm-2am • Monday - Thursday: 9am-2am • Friday & Saturday: 9am-4am 3-Card Poker & Ultimate Texas Hold’em State-of-the-art poker room located on the 2nd floor of the Sarasota Kennel Club. Live action cash games and tournaments offered daily.
Clubhouse Reservations & More Info:
(941) 355-7744 / 5400 Bradenton Rd. Sarasota 34234 / SarasotaKennelClub.com 34
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February 2016
Upcoming Events: Cat Depot’s “Love Me Do” Gala March 5 Sarasota Hyatt Regency 6:30 pm. Beatles-themed extravaganza with a buffet, open bar, music, dancing, auctions. Proceeds will benefit homeless, abandoned, and injured cats and kittens. Tickets: $175 | 941.366.2404 | catdepot.org.
26th Annual Florida Winefest & Auction March 17 – 20 Various locations and
Community Expansion
Coming in 2016
times. Includes Banquet on the Block March 18 at Lemon and Main streets, downtown Sarasota, wine lunches and dinners, and more. Proceeds assist local disadvantaged children. 941.952.1109 | floridawinefest.org
Southeastern Guidedogs Walk-a-Thon March 19 Payne Park, Sarasota. Event includes a 3k walk, live music, vendors, and family-friendly fun. Benefits Southeastern Guide Dogs. 941.729.5665 | guidedogswalkathon.org
JFCS Celebrity Chefs Food & Wine Tasting and Golf Challenge March 22 The Resort at Longboat Key Club. Golf Challenge - shotgun 12:30 pm., Celebrity Chefs 6:00 pm. Benefits Jewish Family and Children’s Service of the Suncoast. Tickets: $350 golf challenge, food & wine tasting | $100 food & wine tasting | 941.366.2224 x142 | jfcscares.org
AJC’s Human Relations Award Dinner March 30 Michael’s on East 6:00 pm. AJC West Coast Florida will honor local philanthropists Edie and David Chaifetz with its Human Relations Award. 941.365.4955 | ajc.org
February 2016
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PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR A Song in my Heart at Sarasota Orchestra
Asolo Repertory Theatre
Macbeth (Conservatory)
Main Stage – Outside Mullingar
941.351.8000 / asolorep.org
February 23 – 28 Scottish nobleman Macbeth receives a supernatural prophecy and chooses a life of violence, unleashing the devastating psychological effects of evil and the lust for power.
February 3 – March 27 Between fading families, a bitter land feud, and familial rivalries, two misfit neighbors will have to overcome their own fears to find happiness.
All The Way Through April 9 1964 was a pivotal year in American history and master politician Lyndon Baines Johnson sat at the center of it all, doing whatever it takes to get the Civil Rights bill passed and secure his re-election.
Living On Love Through February 25 When opera diva Raquel discovers that her husband Vito, the Italian maestro, has become enamored with a young lady hired to ghostwrite his largely fictional autobiography, she retaliates by hiring her own handsome young scribe to chronicle her life as an opera star.
Ah, Wilderness! Through April 10 While the Miller family is planning their traditional holiday festivities, dreamy-eyed middle child Richard is spurned by his first love and sets out on a rebellious adventure into the adult world.
The Circus Arts Conservatory 941.355.9805 / circusarts.org
Circus Sarasota’s “Red, White & BELLO!” Winter Performance
Cabaret – Soul Mates: A Journey To Hitsville Through February 14 Highlighting musicians and music from Motown.
Cabaret – Yesterday
February 12 – 28 Extraordinary acts from across the globe perform in a magnificent showcase under a one-ring, European-style Big Top.
Through May 1 Journey back to a time of peace, love, and everything in between with songs such as “Let It Be,” “Satisfaction,” and “I’m Into Something Good.”
Florida Studio Theatre
Cabaret – Laughing Matters
941.366.9000 / floridastudiotheatre.org
February 17 – June 12
Main Stage – Butler
Lemon Bay Playhouse
Through February 26 During the Civil War in 1861, an escaped slave seeks sanctuary, but the laws of the land are unrelenting.
941.475.6756 / lemonbayplayhouse.com
Plaza Suite Through February 14 Hilarity abounds in three episodes of couFebruary 2016
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Neil Diamond Tribute at Manatee Performing Arts Center
All The Way at Asolo Rep
Kristin Chenoweth at Van Wezel
ples occupying a suite at the Plaza.
John Tuff and Friends February 20 Performing classic country music with hits of the past.
7th Annual Shorts Aloud Festival February 27 – 28 A laugh-filled performance with twists and surprises.
Manatee Performing Arts Center manateeperformingartscenter.com 941.748.5875
Josh Groban at Van Wezel
pion, and a Hungarian-American female chess second.
The Players Theatre
Valentine’s Day Mascara Murder Mystery Brunch
Hands on a Hardbody
February 13 – 14 Celebrate Valentine’s Day and help solve a mystery.
Yank – The Musical February 18 – March 6 Explores what stories get told in wartime, and how World War II became the great catalyst in bringing gay men and women together.
Lip-Schtick
February 5 Keith Allynn, unveils the story of Diamond’s life and career through his songs.
February 24 Watch David Scarbie Mitchell as he transforms his way through seven characters and eleven costume changes without ever leaving the stage.
Chess
Ultimate Johnny Cash Tribute
February 11 – 28 This complex rock opera tells the story of a conflicting love triangle between an American Grandmaster, a Russian Cham-
February 26 – 27 A tribute to Johnny Cash featuring Terry Lee Goffee.
Neil Diamond Tribute
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February 2016
941.365.2494 / theplayerstheater.org February 17 – March 6 Under a scorching sun for days on end, armed with nothing but hope, humor and ambition, 10 contestants fight to keep at least one hand on a brand new truck in order to win it.
The Ringling 941.359.5700 / ringling.org
Kate Weare Company: UNSTRUCK February 12 – 13 An intimate trio of unceasing contact and energetic exchange.
Akropolis Reed Quintet February 20 – 21 Featuring, Tim Gocklin, oboe; Kari Dion, clarinet; Matt Landry, saxophone; Ryan Reynolds, bassoon; Andre Koeppe, bass clarinet
Party Frocks! Spring LOoks from Needle & Thread
Sarasota Ballet 941.359.0099 / sarasotaballet.org
Smuin Ballet February 26 – February 28 Join the Sarasota Ballet as they present the Smuin Ballet from the San Francisco Bay Area.
Sarasota Orchestra 941.953.3434 / sarasotaorchestra.org
Masterworks 4 – All About Mozart February 4 – 7 Father son duo Sergey and Andrei Dogadin, performing Mozart’s Sinfonia concert ante in e-flat major and Symphony No. 41 (Jupiter).
Great Escapes 4 – A Song in my Heart
Fine apparel, accessories, handbags and jewelry 73 South Palm Avenue Suites 220/221 Sarasota, Florida 34236 (941) 373-6333 ruesrq.com
February 10 – 13 Features Ray Charles standards such as Ain’t that Love and Georgia on My Mind along with Beethoven’s Violin Romance No. 2 performed by Concertmaster Daniel Jordan.
Masterworks 5 - Mastero February 19– 21 Conductor Neeme Järvi with guest pianist Per Tengstrand, leads Orchestra in three epic pieces; Brahms Tragic Overture in D Minor, Piano Concerto No. 1, and R. Strauss Also sprach Zarathustra.
Thrill of a Lifetime February 27 Young musicians, performing side-by-side with musicians of the Sarasota Orchestra.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Taste | Snack | Relax • 250+ Wines & 70+ Beers from Around the World • A Wine Bar with 20 Wines Ready to Purchase by the Glass
941.955.7676 | vanwezel.org
You Can’t Beat Local. From care, to
• Wines are Organized by Taste Categories & Price Point Making it Easy to Find What You Want
comfort, to trust,
• Artisanal Cheeses & Gourmet Food Available
your experience
• A Quaint & Cozy Atmosphere for Parties
will be unmatched.
Masters of Illusion Believe the Impossible February 4
The Book of Mormon February 9 – 14
Key Chorale, Sarasota’s Symphonic Chorus presents: Bach & Beethoven February 13
Neil Berg’s 107 Years of Broadway
• Wine Gifts & Gift Baskets Available
February 17
Hours: Monday 11am to 5pm | Tuesday – Friday 11am to 9pm | Saturday 11am-5pm
Michael Feinstein and his 17-Piece Band
8225 Natures Way, Unit 111 | Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941-306-5804 | cheers-to-wine.com
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February 2016
February 18
Patti LaBelle February 23
Moscow Festival Ballet - Cinderella February 24
Choosing the right
Realtor
makes all the difference.
The Beach Boys February 25
• Over 36 years of real estate sales & marketing experience, offering clients the highest level of personalized service
Vince Gill & Lyle Lovett February 26
Kristin Chenoweth
• Specializing in all price ranges & neighborhoods in Sarasota and Manatee Counties
February 27
Josh Groban
• Institute of Luxury Home Marketing Member & Certified Specialist
February 28
The Australian Bee Gees Show
• Pittsburgh, PA native
February 29
Let’s explore marketing and selling your home together. Call for a private consultation!
The Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra March 1
The McCartney Years
Sandi Ansilio Realtor
March 2
941-586-8679 I SandiAnsilio.com sandi.ansilio@sothebysrealty.com
Venice Theatre 941.488.1115 / venicestage.com
Sweeney Todd Through February 14 A barber, who was unjustly imprisoned for decades, returns to England bent on revenge that turns murderous.
®
Sotheby’s International Realty and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each Office Is Independently Owned And Operated.
The Sounds of Harry James and the Andrews Sisters February 6 A tribute to the performers that provided the soundtrack for America’s “Greatest Generation.”
Winter Musical February 16 – March 13 In this musical set during the Scott Joplin era, tells the intertwining stories of three extraordinary families from different walks of life.
Let’s Hang On February 21 – 22 A tribute show to Frankie Valli.
The Rocky Horror Show February 26 – March 19 Innocent newlyweds find themselves seeking shelter at a mysterious castle on a dark and stormy night, where they encounter Dr. Frank N Furter and his “perfect” creation Rocky, and many other crazy characters.
February 2016
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Rave On! The Buddy Holly Experience February 28 – 29 Features Buddy Holly interpreter, Billy McGuigan, backed by the Rave On Band.
I OFFER
Venice Performing Arts Center
HOME INSURANCE
941.480.3191 / veniceperformingartscenter.com
OPTIONS
Shen Yun February 6 – 7 For 5,000 years divine culture flourished in the land of China. Humanity’s treasure was nearly lost, but through breathtaking music and dance, Shen Yun is bringing back this glorious culture.
Here in Florida, your choice is clear. Everyone likes options. My office not only offers car insurance backed by a company with 80 years of experience, but also offers home insurance from several companies. Call me today!
George Dakkak, CLU, ChFC 941-921-6630
Toronto All-Star Big Band: Swing, Swing, Swing 2016
3629 Webber Street, Suite A Sarasota georgedakkak@allstate.com
February 20 Performing music from the Golden Era of swing with a tribute to Frank Sinatra.
104381
Hannah Jae Allstate has no financial responsibility to you for any home insurance policy you purchase and would not be responsible for any claims. Allstate does not make any representations or accept liability related to operations of home insurance companies, including, but not limited to, their financial conditions. Subject to terms, conditions and availability. © 2012 Allstate Insurance Co.
February 27 Musical performance by Venice’s own young rising star.
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe 941.366.1505 / westcoastblacktheatre.org
Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom Through February 20 It’s 1927 in Chicago, and the fiery Blues legend Gertrude “Ma” Rainey is ready to record her signature songs. Inside the cramped studio, she squares off against a battling quartet of musicians and a tight-fisted, white producer.
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February 2016
“I SOLD MY UNUSED JEWELRY AND WE ENJOYED THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME.” From affording your dreams to tackling life’s unexpected expenses, Carats can help provide the cash you need. Our professional appraisers offer the highest market value for your jewelry and customized loans tailored to your budget. Trust the experienced professionals at Carats to discover the hidden value of your fine jewelry, watches, and diamonds. www.caratsfjw.com
941.926.3335
1922 Bay Rd., Sarasota
Some day,
he’ll be confidence.
Some day, this cute, cuddly—and not just a little bit crazy—10-week-old will be the difference between a life half lived, and one fully engaged. But it’s not easy. It takes two years, thousands of dollars, and hundreds of volunteer hours to turn raw potential into polished performance. And it’s all possible because of people just like you.
Some day, with your help, starts today.
Your Hometown Heroes
DESIGN
Paving the Way By Jacqueline Miller
W
e’ve all seen fabulous paved driveways that
also tricky. It’s best to look at a variety of options. For such an
seem to perfectly coordinate with homes.
important decision, you should seek the professional advice
But that’s not always an easy thing to ac-
of paving companies like Stabil, not a salesman who jumps
complish. Finding the perfect pavers requires a lot more thought
from different departments in a box store. We will make sure
and effort than just selecting your own at a big box store.
you make the best choice and will provide multiple samples
Making a mistake could cost you thousands of dollars in
you can lay out before making the commitment,” said Dave.
the value of your home. After all, who wants to buy a home
Concrete pavers offer an array of beautiful choices – there
that has a non-complimentary paved driveway or ugly-col-
are different shapes, sizes, textures and lots of colors. Some
ored, slippery pool deck? This is not a mistake homeowners
are plain, some can look like real stone, and others have intri-
ever want to make. You, your neighbors, and everyone else
cate patterns. Interlocking concrete pavers have tabs and slots
has to see it every day and not only will a poor choice affect
so they fit together like a simple puzzle.
your home’s value, but who wants to live next door to a less than desirable home/paver combination?
So, if you’re adding pavers to a garden, your choice may be totally different than what you might select for your driveway.
To get you the advice to make the right choice, I talked to
If you’re looking to pave your pool area, there are non-slip-
Dave Rowe, president of Stabil Concrete Pavers in Sarasota
pery options. If you’re space is small, don’t put dark-colored
(7080 28th St, Court East, 941.739.7823) about selecting the
pavers. Light colored pavers will make your space look larger.
perfect color, texture, and pattern for your space.
The bottom line is don’t waste your hard earned money.
“Paver colors that are a few shades lighter than your home
Do your homework. Look at all the options and seek help
won’t compete with the home and will ensure your home
from professionals like Dave and his staff at Stabil. No matter
serves as the focal point. There are also different hues with-
how good you think you are in your design talents, this is an
in each color to consider and how the various hues blend
important choice you and your neighbors have to live with
with all of the surroundings. Colors can have hues of pink,
and so will the next person who may not pay for your home
yellow or gray that may clash with your home. Patterns are
what you always thought it was worth.
Broadway Series
Cabaret
Chess
Lip-Schtick
February 11 – 28, 2016
February 24, 2016
Co- Producers Nancy & Hal West and Jon & Bette Frick
Bye Bye Birdie March 17 – April 3, 2016
Theater for Young AUDIENCES
Associate Producer Mary Zabin
Dear Edwina Jr.
Phantom
June 24 – 25, 2016
April 21 – May 8, 2016
The Wiz
Producer Maintenance Too Paper Company Associate Producer Mary Zabin
Menopause The Musical June 7 – 19, 2016
July 22 – 23, 2016
For Gallery Exhibits, Films,Lectures & Conservatory Program information please visit our website or call:
ManateePerformingArtsCenter.com Box Office: 941-748-5875
Studio Series
Concerts & Comedies
Presenting Action Through Acting
A Neil Diamond Tribute
Yank – The Musical
February 5, 2016
February 18 – March 6, 2016
Valentine’s Day Mascara Murder Mystery Brunch
In collaboration with Equality Florida Co-Producers Ron Lennon & Randy Rentfro
To Kill a Mockingbird April 14 – May 1, 2016 In collaboration with Manasota Bar Association
February 13 – 14, 2016
Terry Lee Goffee (The World’s Greatest Johnny Cash Experience) February 26 – 27, 2016 * Productions subject to change *
GET INSPIRED Cultural Happenings brought to you by the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County
T
he arts influence and inspire people of all ages and walks of life, but how and why? We asked State Senator Nancy Detert (below with Arts Alliance Executive Director Jim Shirley), recipient of the 2014 Nancy Roucher Arts Education Arts Leadership Award to share her perspective.
“What do I truly believe about the arts? Exercise is good for the body; the arts are good for the soul. A play, an opera, a concert, a symphony, or even a good movie, can make a bad day better. Music can help with depression. The arts can carry you away like nothing else. It can elevate and inspire. Without the arts the world would lose its color.” Upcoming Events/Performances/Exhibits:
Gloria Musicae – Franz Joseph Haydn’s The Creation Feb. 28 at 3 p.m. Church of the Palms, 3224 Bee Ridge Rd., Sarasota. Dr. Joseph Holt conducts the Gloria Musicae singers and State College of Florida Concert Choir accompanied by the Sarasota Orchestra in Haydn’s masterpiece oratorio which tells the story of creation drawing text from the book of Genesis and Milton’s Paradise Lost. Nature photographs provided by the Science and Environmental Council of Southwest Florida will accompany the performance. Tickets: 941.387.6046 | GloriaMusicae.org | info@ GloriaMusicae.org
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February 2016
Akropolis Reed Quintet Feb. 20 and 21, 7:30 p.m. Historic Asolo Theater, 5401 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota. Described playing
Fanfare
by
with
musicality,
Magazine
"imagination,
and
huge
as
infallible
vitality,"
the
Akropolis Reed Quintet (oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon and bass clarinet) is a cutting-edge ensemble that performs an innovative, living repertoire with acclaimed
precision.
Tickets:
Prices
range from $25 to $45 | 941.360.7399 | artistseriesconcerts.org. Student tickets available at the door.
Circus Sarasota’s Red, White & BELLO! Feb. 12 – Feb. 28, Showtimes Vary, Big Top, behind University Town Center, 281 N. Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota. Extraordinary acts from across the globe perform in a magnificent showcase under a one-ring, European-style Big Top. Starring “The World’s Greatest Daredevil” Bello Nock who is taking his act to completely new heights and Sarasota’s very own “Queen of the Air” Dolly Jacobs. Tickets: Now on sale $15-$55 | CircusArts.org | Box Office: 2075 Bahia Vista St. | 941.355.9805. Last season’s performances were sold out, so pre-ordering tickets is recommended.
Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium – Otters & Their Waters Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium will feature Otters & Their Waters, a special exhibit opening in February (exact opening date to be announced). The exhibit will feature three otters and provide an otter’s-eye view of their watershed homes. Mote’s animal care specialists will work with the otters and educate guests during narrated training sessions. Otters & Their Waters will be open during normal hours, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. seven days per week, at Mote Aquarium, 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota. The exhibit will be located at Mote’s Ann and Alfred Goldstein Marine Mammal Research and Rehabilitation Center. Please watch Mote’s website, mote.org/otters, and social media for upcoming announcements revealing the February opening date of the exhibit and special events that will celebrate its arrival. You may also call Mote at 941.388.4441 for more information.
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February 2016
Tuesday, March 22, 2016 The Resort at Longboat Key Club, Links on Longboat Featuring chefs from over 25 premier local restaurants, select wines, martini bar, silent auction & live music. NEW THIS YEAR: TENNIS CHALLENGE OPTION FOOD & WINE TASTING CHAIR
GOLF CHALLENGE CHAIR
Barbara Najmy
Lisa Deutsch CHEF CHAIR
Robert Weil, C.E.C. For tickets or to become a sponsor visit www.JFCS-Cares.org or contact Monica Caldwell 941.366.2224 ext. 142 n mcaldwell@JFCS-Cares.org CelebrityChefsSarasota
MEDIA SPONSOR
VENUE SPONSOR
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February 2016
40 & FORWARD By Sue Cullen
Like many entrepreneurs, she started with a dream and a shoestring budget. She wasn’t without assets, however. Among the most valuable were a drive to make a difference in people’s lives, a results-oriented mindset, and a keen business sense fueled by the willingness to see the world as it is and adapt accordingly. That was in 1976, and her namesake firm, Michael Saunders & Company, is now entering its 40th anniversary year as the largest selling brokerage in southwest Florida – a significant achievement that has landed this independent, multi-faceted real estate enterprise in the top tier of brokerages nationwide. February 2016
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53
M icha
el in 1
945
D ray ton in
O
“
19 7 8
ver 40 years, the business has changed, the
parole work. “I found that making a difference was critical
processes have changed, but what remains
to my life, and what more important financial and personal
the same is that to be successful, you have to
decision do most families make than where they live?” she
hire the best people. It’s all about the people,” Michael says.
asks. “Also, in real estate, I could be an entrepreneur and
“We are a company based on values, and we selectively
control my own destiny.”
bring in people at all levels who are aligned with our values
Michael’s impulse toward entrepreneurialism came natu-
and committed to making a difference so we can continue
rally. Raised in Tampa with free time spent in a family cottage
to grow and have a positive impact on the community.”
on the north end of Longboat Key, Michael gained an ap-
Having spent her early career years as a probation/pa-
preciation for coastal living and for the deep entrepreneurial
role officer with the Manatee County Court System, Michael
spirit in her family. Her great-uncle, in the late 1800s, owned
began looking at career alternatives as she was expecting
a steamboat that provided the first reliable transportation of
the birth of her son, Drayton, who today serves as company
mail and supplies from Tampa to points south, and in the
president. She believed real estate would utilize her com-
1950s her family owned a marina on the north end of Long-
munication skills and ability to help people harness their
boat Key. “I can throw a cast net better than I can dance,”
own motivation to succeed. A real estate career also would
says Michael who still has a passion for fishing.
provide more financial opportunity and – important for a
From the beginning, her vision and approach proved
new mother – not require the risk inherent in probation/
successful with $11 million in sales the first year she opened
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February 2016
Michael in 19
86
Michael & Drayton in
20 09
“Evolving our roles took time. Michael is the face of the company as founder and CEO, and we both are very much engaged in the business. She is the tenured partner, and I am the new idea partner. Our day-to-day roles blend in that we are available to anyone in the company at any time, and we’re proud of that.” – Drayton Saunders Michael Saunders & Company. Putting that into perspective,
an Oriental rug and beautiful armoire from my mother’s
according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ inflation
house and added a stylish floor desk. I didn’t have a lot of
calculators, that would be nearly $46 million today. Defi-
listings at the time so I displayed the ones I had in beau-
nitely not bad for a woman who relied on the confidence of
tiful antique picture frames.” She proved that appearances
a business acquaintance to co-sign a $5,000 loan to open
are important, and Michael herself sets the tone with a sure
her first office on St. Armands Key because the bank would
sense of personal style that portrays a highly professional,
not lend to women in those days.
corporate look made soft and approachable with rich color
Michael used her initial ante for first and last month’s
and her signature scarves.
rent and created an office that not only looked different but
“On every level, I wanted to create a company that
also offered a different approach to better address needs,
could be set apart from all others,” she says. “In those days,
particularly with coastal properties. The tone she set would
offices tried to be all things to all people. We specialized in
shape the real estate powerhouse that has evolved over the
waterfront property.” In addition to setting high standards for
past 40 years and achieved $2.7 billion in sales last year.
customer service and integrity, Michael also offered some-
“My vision was about values and selecting the right people,
thing that was not done at that time. “I had a very strategic
including hiring only full time agents. I paid attention to the
plan of marketing,” she says. “The second person I hired
look and feel of the office because we are professionals, and
was a graphic designer so we could promote our listings
the office should be reflective of that,” she said. “I borrowed
with a great look and a strong marketing plan. We were the February 2016
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Michael working from home in 1981
first broker in Florida to put all of our listings in a display ad.”
a family business.” As was Michael, Drayton was steeped in
Early expansion also was along the waterfront into of-
an entrepreneurial mindset his whole life with parents and
fices on Longboat and Siesta keys. Michael’s policy was to
key role models who were entrepreneurs. That independent
refer “dry land” properties to other realtors, but quickly had
spirit led him to South America following college graduation
to change as customers clamored for help locating proper-
where he quickly learned that his language skills weren’t de-
ties inland and, in 1987, the company opened its first main-
veloped enough for a corporate environment and while he
land office in downtown Sarasota. Customer demand has
honed his Spanish, he had the courage to open a business
spurred strategically implemented growth over the years,
of his own – a coffee and bagel shop in Santiago, Chile.
and today, Michael Saunders & Company has 24 offices
Over the years, he grew the business to include two stores
spanning three counties from Bradenton to Boca Grande
and a wholesale bakery that employed 60 people. “The en-
and Punta Gorda, employs an administrative staff of more
trepreneurs I grew up with gave me the courage to open a
than 150, and has 650-plus agents. In addition, the company
business in a foreign country,” he said. “I learned the value
has evolved from its beginnings in residential sales into a
of risk-taking and pursuing my dream.”
full-service real estate enterprise with a thriving commercial
On one of Drayton’s visits to the U.S., Michael, who
sales division, new homes sales and marketing, commercial
felt the business had grown to the point where she needed a
and resort property management, and corporate relocation.
partner, asked if he would join the company. “It is difficult to
Other divisions include MSC Mortgage, MSC Title, and MSC
bring a young person into the business when they have not
Rentals, a full service property rental division.
had the experience of building something brick by brick and
Along the way, there have been many milestones, in-
stick by stick,” Michael says, “but Drayton had that experi-
cluding in 2003, when Drayton Saunders joined the com-
ence with his own business. He had the kind of experience
pany. “Now we’re a family business,” Michael says. “Every
I had in the early days, and he has the same passion and
entrepreneur dreams of starting an enterprise and becoming
commitment I do to grow the business for another 40 years.”
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February 2016
Joining the company, Drayton knew, meant years of be-
tion Trust Corporation after the fallout from the savings
ing immersed in various facets of the business and earning
and loan crisis in the 1980s, and that commitment was
increasing responsibility in leadership roles over the years.
even more apparent during the Great Recession. While
He has served as branch manager for two offices and as
all industries were cutting staff to survive the economic
president of MSC Mortgage and MSC Title and, in 2009, was
downturn, Michael Saunders & Company took a different
named president with leadership responsibility for non-res-
approach for the 1,000 families depending on it. “We re-
idential divisions. “Evolving our roles took time. Michael is
duced costs in many ways and even took the plants out of
the face of the company as founder and CEO, and we both
the office. We cross-trained people, and our leadership
are very much engaged in the business. She is the tenured
team took pay cuts so we could retain people,” Michael
partner, and I am the new idea partner,” he says. “Our day-
says. “It’s not always been an easy 40 years, but when the
to-day roles blend in that we are available to anyone in the
right people go shoulder to shoulder with you, you can be
company at any time, and we’re proud of that.”
sustained through difficult times.”
While Michael radiates a poised Grace Kelly-like el-
As critical as weathering those crises has been to her
egance and demeanor, Drayton has his own style, which
company’s longevity, Michael considers other key deci-
combines an interest in delving into details and understand-
sion points over the years to be acquiring deep nation-
ing the metrics with an inclination toward humor. His abil-
al and international affiliations, and to be a full service
ity to be funny and make a point at the same time shines
company offering mortgage, title, commercial, property
through in the stories he tells about growing up in the real
management and a totally dedicated new home and con-
estate business. “As a six-year-old, you want to go out and
dominium development division. Being an early adopter
defend your mom, so my marketing campaign to take down
– and remaining a commanding, award-winning presence
competitors’ signs was short lived,” he says. “My mom sat
– on the Internet also has been important. As crucial as
me down and told me you’re only as good as what you’re
the Internet has become, though, technology won’t as-
known to be and that integrity and trust are important. She
sume the most critical role in the process. “Looking out
taught me that you start with values and build your achieve-
10 years, technology will still be important and maybe
ments around those.”
you’ll be able to take virtual home tours with your Google
As the company grew, and Michael realistically
glasses,” Drayton says, “but at the core this is a people
couldn’t touch everyone every day, it was time to formal-
business. I don’t think that changes. You have to be com-
ize the core values on which she had built the business.
mitted to people to be a success.”
“We conducted a company-wide exercise in the 1990s in-
Community commitment also is a vital part of the
volving agents, leadership, staff, vendors and customers
company’s culture. Both Michael and Drayton are heavi-
to define the “why” of Michael Saunders & Company,”
ly involved in supporting the community, including giving
she says. “We came up with a set of four core values, and
generously of their time. All Michael Saunders & Compa-
every decision that is not based on real estate or contract
ny staff and agents also have the opportunity to donate a
law is based on those. We hire people who are aligned
portion of their pay or commissions to support nonprof-
with those values and ask them to leave if they are not.”
its through the MSC Foundation. “We care, and not just
These core values are not flowery, aspirational statements,
about the transaction, but about the community we live in.
but simply worded guidelines for conduct intended to en-
Drayton and I and everyone in the company have a deep
gender integrity, excellence, communication and mutual
commitment to the community,” Michael says. “Over the
profitability. It is a brand promise they live by day in and
years, I’ve had many opportunities to sell the company,
day out.
but I believed we could serve our community and agents
Adhering to values in good times is one thing, but
better as an independent with strong and deep nation-
the true test is how those values stand up to hard times,
al and international affiliations rather than as a national
which the local real estate industry has seen its share of.
brand. Things may have changed a lot in real estate over
One of Michael’s strengths has been her ability to adapt
the past 40 years, but what has remained the same is that
even when the market is at its worst. She was able to keep
people need trusted, knowledgeable, caring professionals
people employed by becoming a contractor with Resolu-
at their side.” February 2016
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Happy New Year, from Café Gabbiano! Happy 2016 from Café Gabbiano! Café Gabbiano features authentic Italian cuisine with the highest quality farm to table ingredients. This includes locally caught seafood, Allen Brothers steak and other fresh, never frozen, local ingredients. Our attention to local, quality ingredients allows us to offer a dynamic menu with an abundance of daily specials to incorporate seasonal specialties. Café Gabbiano also unveiled new house wine labels to complement our extensive wine collection. Come sample our new labels with a $10 wine tasting flight and find your new favorite. Continue to try new things in 2016 and take advantage of our Wines by the Glass menu to sample vintages usually offered only by the bottle.
Café Gabbiano is also excited to announce a new assortment of tasty desserts created by our talented, new pastry chef including crème brulee, key lime pie, bread pudding, pumpkin cheesecake and other seasonal favorites. These delicious additions will be rotating onto our menu which already features homemade tiramisu and cannoli, and a variety of gelatos. Café Gabbiano special events are back for the season, including wine pairing and winemaker dinner events. Such social events offer a unique dining experience for our guests to sample not only great food and wine but also the company of others who share this passion. Our wine connoisseurs and even winemakers themselves share their wine expertise over the course of a carefully crafted menu to highlight the flavors of featured wines. Visit our website for event details and to make reservations. Café Gabbiano continues to be an ideal setting for wedding receptions and showers, cocktail parties, corporate holiday and employee appreciation gatherings, and social club networking events. Our special event menu offerings, available on our website, can be tailored to accommodate any event setting and budget. Use Café Gabbiano to cater any event on or off site!
5104 Ocean Blvd. | Siesta Key | 941-349-1423 | cafegabbiano.com Open Daily 5pm-10pm
Photography:
Big cats. Dapper dogs. Adorable kids. Creative people. The scenes of our city entertain, excite and amuse like few others can.
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JOHN REVISKY
Bryan Lorenzo Thomas Nudi Vincent Dale Trishul Thejasvi Natasha Thornton
Juan Sebastian Baron Sarah Finazzo John O’Keefe Erin Gribbin Tony Ahedo
This group of young filmmakers greatly values the arts and diverse cultural landscape of our community and is dedicated to keeping local talent engaged and committed. They worked together on the FrancoAmerican production Lights on a Beating Heart and also create feature films, web series, shorts, commercials, and music videos. February 2016
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Actors Rebecca Caine and Karl Hamilton star in Asolo Rep’s regional premiere of the highly anticipated Broadway-bound comedy Living on Love. This “glamorous romp through the world of music, marriage and celebrity” runs though February 25.
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February 2016
The very dapper Rocco Martinetto orders a yummy dish off the doggy menu as he dines al fresco at his favorite restaurant, CafÊ L’Europe on St. Armands.
February 2016
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White tiger “Barry White” sings “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love Babe” in the ear of his sweetheart, Mary Patricia Revisky. You can sing with Barry and the other big cats, as you hear them roar in a natural habitat at Sarasota’s Big Cat Habitat & Sanctuary.
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February 2016
360-degree videos are fast becoming an exiting medium to create a unique perspective on a variety of content. This is the print version of a “moving art piece” depicting Sarasota as a little planet created by John Revisky and Matt Sheils. In the video version, the beauty of Sarasota is captured using this unique technology. To view the 15-second video, go to www.facebook.com/john.j.revisky/videos_by
February 2016
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The creative talents of Chef Joey Egan at Louie’s Modern Restaurant on Palm Avenue reign supreme with this delectable spherical chocolate dessert.
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February 2016
Pink Flamingos always bring smiles to the faces of kids like Peyton Eckes and there’s no better place to see them roam free than Sarasota Jungle Gardens. Did you know that flamingos derive their color from their diet of shrimp and other crustaceans?
February 2016
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Jan 12 Jan 13 Jan 14 Jan 17 Jan 21 Feb 2 Feb 8 Feb 10 Feb 17 Feb 23 Mar 8 Mar 6–13 Mar 23 Apr 4 Apr 13 May 15
Club Fed Lecture Series I: Creation Club Fed Hits the Road: Edison & Ford Winter Estates SOLD OUT PJ Library: Raising a Mensch Russ & Daughters, NYC – Kickoff Brunch for the 7th Annual Jewish Film Festival – Michael’s On East Film and Talk: Every Face Has a Name – Meet director: Magnus Gertten Club Fed Lecture Series II: Exodus An Evening with Ehud Barak SOLD OUT Club Fed Hits the Road: Chihuly Collection at the Morean Arts Center SOLD OUT Tel Mond Dancers at Riverview High School Club Fed Lecture Series III: King Solomon Club Fed Lecture Series IV: Queen Esther The Milman-Kover Jewish Film Festival Club Fed Hits the Road: Tiffany at the Morse Museum Film and Presentation by Jennifer Teege: My Grandfather Would Have Shot Me Club Fed Hits the Road: The Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg One Community Outreach Yom Ha’atzmaut Celebration
TE
AK
EN NUS GERT T
B EHUD
AR
Get complete info and purchase tickets as they become available at www.jfedsrq.org or 941.371.4546
O N D DA N C E R S
JEW
M AG
LM
ISH
F I L M F E S T I VA L
Milan’s Jewelry Walking into Milan’s Jewelry, it is easy to see the devotion to customer care that has gone into every detail from the variety of pieces that appeal to every taste, the modern CAD/CAM design of custom pieces, and most of all, Milan Petrovic himself. Understanding both the tangible and emotional value jewelry represents, Petrovic, an award-winning master jeweler, creates a comfortable and enjoyable experience. He works with his customers personally and even offers the assurance of watching him reset stones or repair precious pieces while they wait. It has been a winning formula for Milan’s Jewelry, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year at 1666 Main Street in downtown Sarasota – impressive longevity in an area whose landscape changed considerably during the Great Recession. “I am very meticulous about what I do and emphasize high quality and personal service. I’m an old fashioned kind of jeweler,” Petrovic says. “Customers like being able to talk with the person who will actually be doing the work. Many other stores do not
the customer to see what the piece will look like before it is crafted. Petrovic
have a jeweler on premises so jew-
also carries a broad selection of jewelry that includes high quality colored
elry is taken offsite for the work to
stones and diamonds, fine pearls, and wedding rings available in eight ma-
be done. That doesn’t happen here.”
terials from meteorite and black diamonds to hardened wood. He also has
Milan’s Jewelry offers everything
a collection of unique contemporary pieces with sleek modern lines and a
from watch repair and battery re-
selection of silver Boho pieces.
placement to diamond setting/reset-
Petrovic’s interest in jewelry stems from a family that was in the business, and
ting and custom jewelry. All custom
he has trained in Europe and the U.S. “I have always enjoyed the jewelry busi-
pieces are designed on computer
ness, he says. “It’s a happy business, and I enjoy seeing my customers’ excite-
with CAD/CAM software that allows
ment. There is a high degree of satisfaction when I deliver something they love.”
Milan’s Jewelry | 941.953.5871 | milansjewelry.com
Movers
Shakers
&
Throughout its 59-year history, Scene Magazine has been known for featuring people making a positive impact on our community through their leadership and generosity. With everyone’s contributions equally appreciated, how do you recognize one over another? At Scene, we dislike “lists” – the top this, the top that; the best this, the best that – as these lists are typically flawed by the bias and hidden agendas of the people making the selections. Despite knowing this, please indulge us this one time.
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J
ust who are the movers and shakers making a difference right now? We asked six high profile people from various sectors to share their top “movers and shakers” picks with Scene. Who is making a positive impact right now? Who is championing an idea or
important initiative that can affect our future? Who are the people making news that are the names to know in 2016? Choices could be one person or a couple, or a few people or a group championing an idea or important initiative. There were several duplicate choices in the picks submitted by the six people who weighed in, providing a high confidence level in the results. So let’s not waste any more time. Not in any particular order, here are the top movers, shakers, ideas and initiatives shaping local happenings.
Chuck & Margery Barancik Foundation
Randy Benderson Benderson Development, under the leadership of Randy Benderson, is shaping our landscape in a big way. It is safe to say the majority of Sarasota/ Bradenton residents love the growth and excitement Benderson is bringing to our area, while others are concerned about traffic, the elimination of green spaces, and fast track growth. But Sarasota/Bradenton is no longer America’s best kept secret - that secret was let out of the bag some time ago. Benderson was the major player in developing the 880,000 squarefoot Mall at University Town Center as well as the District at University Town Center. Let’s also not forget Benderson’s development of the beautiful 600-acre Nathan Benderson Park just south of the Mall, which will be hosting the 2017 World Rowing Championship. About six months after the Mall opened, Sarasota County Commissioners approved an updated plan to amend Sarasota’s comprehensive plan, which redistributed commercial land and high-density residential land for the 281-acre property southwest of The Mall at University Town Center. Now, with the new plan, Benderson will build 600,000 more square feet of retail space and 100,000 square feet of office space just south of the Mall. In addition to the retail and office space, over 500 hotel rooms and 1,700 residences are also planned. Yay! More shops and restaurants! Rumor has it one of the anchor stores in the new retail space will start with the letter “N”! Let’s just hope the new diverging diamond interchange (DDI) being designed for the I-75/University Parkway Interchange will improve traffic and address safety concerns as planned. Did you know Sarasota/Bradenton’s DDI is the first in the state of Florida? But in addition to our new shopping and entertainment choices, what we really have to thank Randy Benderson for is the positive economic impact he’s helped create through more jobs and opportunities, which will continue to attract new business and bring our area even more economic prosperity.
This lovely and generous Chicago couple, who now make Sarasota their home, have been long-time supporters of many philanthropic causes. Their private, family foundation, established in 2014, is focused on making a difference in Sarasota and beyond in the areas of arts and humanities, education and science, humanitarian causes, medical research, and the environment. In just two years, the impact the Foundation’s gifts has made on our community is nothing short of powerful. Because they believe that education is the cornerstone to individual well-being and economic prosperity, the family partnered with Gulf Coast Community Foundation and invested in STEMsmart, providing a $1.35 million match to transform 108 middle school science and math classrooms into “TechActive” classrooms – hands-on, collaborative learning environments. The student gains in academic and behavioral performance resulted in more TechActive donations from the Foundation. The Foundation also invested in the Reading Recovery Program - a short-term intervention for first graders having extreme difficulty with early reading and writing. Other gifts of educational impact include the College Consortium of the Creative Coast, a collaboration of area colleges and universities to create a new model for higher education in the Sarasota-Manatee region. The family is also deeply committed to improving the human condition and has invested in ending the cycle of poverty and being an advocate for those who struggle. They have donated generously to All Faiths Food Bank; the Florida Policy Institute; Jewish Family and Children’s Service to support the Healthy Fathers/ Healthy Families program as well as a gift to support seven social service programs the organization provides to children and families ranging from homework assistance to addiction recovery; CareerEdge to proFebruary 2016
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vide career training to unemployed and under-employed adults in the Sarasota-Manatee region; the Community Foundation of Sarasota County for its Season of Sharing Fund; the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County to begin an after-school program in Newtown Estates, and several more very worthy organizations. The Foundation has also significantly impacted arts and humanities believing that “a society with the humanizing influence of the arts is educationally critical and socially essential.” Recent recipients of the Foundation’s generosity include Asolo Repertory Theatre; Ringling College of Art and Design to help build a new library and support the Academic Resource Center; and, Sarasota Opera, Sarasota Ballet, and Sarasota Orchestra. Encouraging people to interact with nature as well as supporting programs that protect the environment are evidenced by a significant Foundation gift of to Mote Marine Laboratory to support its world-class scientific research in Key West, Florida. Supporting medical research is also a passion of the Barancik family and the Foundation is currently focused on Multiple Sclerosis Research, establishing a $3 million endowment at Gulf Coast Community Foundation to annually fund the Barancik Prize for Innovation in MS Research Endowment Fund. The prize encourages researchers toward this field and promotes public and institutional awareness of Multiple Sclerosis. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society received a grant to fund the 2015 Barancik Prize for Innovation in MS Research Award. All this giving, all this impact, and in just a few years. During 2015, Teri Hansen, the former president of Gulf Coast Community Foundation, took over operations for the Barancik Foundation. Hansen’s thirteen-year leadership at Gulf Coast had a major impact on our community. Now, as she works with the Baranciks to grow their philanthropic investments, we will undoubtedly hear the name Barancik for many years to come as we all benefit greatly from their generosity.
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Joe Gruters & Donald Trump
Joe Gruters Sarasota CPA Joe Gruters is no stranger to the local and state political scene. He is the Florida campaign manager for Donald Trump, the billionaire businessman and GOP presidential candidate you either love or hate. Need we say more? Oh, but there is more. He is also the Sarasota County GOP Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida. His is undoubtedly a name we will be hearing during 2016 and probably well beyond. Gruters was hand picked by U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan to assist in his 2006 campaign and was an early backer of Governor Rick Scott in 2010. He is once again running for a state House seat (he lost his first two election) with those who know him saying a seat in Congress and other offices are also goals. But could his support of the controversial Trump risk his future in politics or will it prove to be a genius move catapulting Gruters to even bigger things? Our money is on Gruters. Stay tuned.
Sarasota Bayfront 20:20 He’s the high profile co-proprietor of Michael’s on East and Visit Sarasota County board member. She’s the president of Visit Sarasota County. He’s a longtime environmental activist, Senior VP for Community Investment at Gulf Coast Community Foundation, and is also a Visit Sarasota County board member. Together, Michael Klauber, Virginia Haley, and Jon Thaxton, along with other community and civic leaders, are contributing their talents to an important project needing perfect 20:20 vision – Sarasota Bayfront 20:20. The decisions being made for the bay front area from Boulevard of the Arts to Payne Terminal surrounding the Van Wezel (42 acres) as well as parcels of land just east of Tamiami Trail will shape the future of this Sarasota bay front area for generations. Thanks to the collective efforts of leaders like Klauber, Haley and Thaxton, the future plans for this significant stretch of town is in good hands.
Bayfront 20:20’s vision is to “create a long-term master plan that will establish a cultural and economic legacy for the region while ensuring public access to the bay front.” To date, more than 34 arts, neighborhood, foundation and businesses have supported this common vision statement. There have been nearly 150 meetings and 6 community forums with more expected in 2016. In February 2015, the Sarasota City Commission approved Bayfront 20:20’s vision and
supporting implementation principals for redevelopment. Bayfront 20:20 is now entering Phase III Partnership: Master Planning, which involves site planning, facility planning, outreach and fundraising, in order to reach its goal. Klauber is aiming for a groundbreaking of the City’s 42 acres by December 2017. Contributions in support of the project can be made through Gulf Coast Community Foundation (gulfcoastcf.org).
David Verinder
David Verinder The leadership of Sarasota Memorial CEO David Verinder, along with the fundraising efforts of Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, is making sure we keep up with the immediate and future health needs of the community. Recently SMH opened Sarasota County’s only Level II trauma center, launched a new internal medicine residency program, and a new $50 million Rehabilitation Pavilion with the latest evidence-based protocols and advanced technology is currently under construction. Future goals include SMH becoming a teaching hospital and regional referral center. These advances are vital not only to our health and well being, but having such a leading edge healthcare facility helps drive our economy in numerous ways. Verinder is quick to attribute SMH’s reputation, growth and very existence to the work of the Foundation and the generosity of its many donors.
Ernie Kretzmer When you go through a roundabout in Sarasota, say thank you to Ernie Kretzmer. This former engineer has been advocating for years to incorporate roundabouts in key intersections making these areas safer and more aesthetically pleasing. He even funded the Ringling Boulevard roundabout to help the cause. But it is through his philanthropy to many organizations that we should thank Ernie Kretzmer. He and his late wife, Alisa, shared a love of music, opera and ballet and together the couple contributed so much over the years in support of our local arts as well as to human service organizations and Jewish causes. Since Alisa’s passing in April 2015, Ernie has made several significant contributions in her memory. Some are private so we will never learn about them, and some that have been made public intentionally don’t disclose the dollar amount. The truth is all of Mr. Kretzmer’s gifts are major gifts.
His latest contributions include a major gift to Sarasota Ballet, which launched a multi-million dollar campaign to underwrite the Ballet’s continued growth and development. The Kretzmer donation will specifically support the creation of a new studio space for the professional company, which will ultimately be named The Ernie and Alisa Kretzmer Sarasota Ballet Studios. Florida Studio Theatre received a major contribution from Mr. Kretzmer in September for five new townhouses in the Rosemary District, which will house visiting artists and interns. At its National Philanthropy Day luncheon held on November 10, 2015, the Association of Fundraising Professionals Southwest Florida Chapter honored Mr. Kretzmer as Outstanding Individual Philanthropist. Key Chorale, Sarasota Ballet, Sarasota Orchestra, Sarasota Opera and WUSF Public Media all nominated him for the award. Not one organization, but five organizations nominated him. What does that tell you? February 2016
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Restaurant Dynasties Caragiulo Family
Seidensticker Family
Since coming here in 1988 with their late father Tony, a retired New York baker, the high profile Caragiulo brothers have become well-known on the local restaurant scene, owning and operating some of the most popular restaurants in town. Since opening the original Caragiulos Restaurant on Palm Avenue in 1989, the family has grown their restaurant empire to include the popular Burns Court restaurant, Owen’s Fish Camp, and partnered with Nancy Krohngold to open Nancy’s Bar-B-Q on Pineapple Avenue. They also operate the restaurant and bar on the second floor of Shore on St. Armands, the popular surfing fashion shop. But that’s not it. Remember Sam Snead’s Restaurant on the corner of Hillview and Osprey? Mark Caragiulo will open Veronica Fish and Oyster in that location. The 48-year-old landmark and family-owned Moore’s Stone Crab Restaurant will partner with the Caragiulo team to renovate the restaurant and freshen the menu. There is little doubt that this close-knit family’s success is a tribute to the strong family loyalty and work ethic instilled in them by their parents. That’s awesome.
First it was Libby’s on Osprey. Next was Louie’s Modern on Palm. The latest is Muse at The Ringling Museum. Steve Seidensticker, his sons Joe and Pat, his daughter Lisa (who operates the catering), and business partner Joe Greco have given us three well-run, lively and fun restaurants, with great food and ambiance for our dining pleasure. All of the restaurants, as well as Modern Events and Catering, are part of Tableseide, a company they formed which offers unique dining and catering experiences focusing on simplicity, quality, and freshness all in inviting and fun atmospheres. It is their goal that that the Tableseide dining concept be a winning formula not only for their current restaurants, but for future concepts they open as well as for those who seek their invaluable restaurant expertise born from thirty years of industry experience. Their newest Tableseide venture will be Oak & Stone, a new restaurant concept opening on Honore and University Parkway. Oak & Stone is a collaboration of Tableseide, Mike Santa Lucia of Lucia’s Pizza Italian Grill, and Brett Decklever. The restaurant, scheduled to open soon, will have a full bar, live entertainment, TVs for sports events, 60 self-serve craft beers, wood-oven artisan pizza and American tavern favorites with a new twists. Judging from the success of Libby’s, Louie’s Modern, and now Muse, Oak & Stone is sure to be a winning concept.
Seidensticker Family, photo by John Revisky
Evanoff Family The father and son team of Steve and Mike Evanoff keep expanding their impressive restaurant holdings in our market. We all know of Evie’s. Father Steve opened the original Evie’s Restaurant and golf driving range on Bee Ridge Road in 1997 and through the years added a car wash and miniature golf course. There are now several area restaurants with the Evie’s name in both Sarasota and Manatee including the most recent one, Evie’s Tavern and Grill on Main Street in Sarasota, which opened last September. A few years ago, Steve and Mike added a new concept to their
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restaurant dynasty – the White Buffalo Saloon on Macintosh Road in Sarasota – where many local notables have been spotted in cowboy boots doing line dancing. They also opened The Beer Box craft beer store in Sarasota, capitalizing on the craft beer rage. Their Office Bar SRQ on Ringling Blvd. in downtown Sarasota is a favorite among the after-work crowd. Their latest venture is their recent purchase of an Old Florida landmark - Spanish Pointe Restaurant and Marina along Little Sarasota Bay in Osprey, which has indoor dining, a tiki bar and a dock.
Kim Ritchie collecting coral sample underwater, photo by Allison Miller
While they will of course make changes, they are definitely going to keep its charm and “Old Florida” feel. They do plan to up the quality of the food offerings. Instead of the typical average bar food, they will add fresh seafood and good quality comfort food. And don’t worry! Fido will still be welcome as you sip your cocktail, watch the sunset, and listen to local entertainment. There’s one thing for sure. The Evanoff family passion for treating people right and being passionate about what they do have served them and our community very well.
Blue Economy Our seas are a vast, awe-inspiring world filled with mystery and undiscovered treasures. As writer Sue Cullen reported in our October 2015 issue, “we are at the cusp of discovering the sea may truly be a vast, treasure-filled reservoir providing sustenance, life-saving drugs, and an economic force with the potential to provide hope of a better life.” Transforming our region into a hub of marine innovation has become known as the “blue economy.” Despite the fact that we live on the Gulf Coast and are on the water, investing in the blue economy and creating the necessary jobs to fuel this opportunity has for the most part been underdeveloped in our market. Thankfully, Gulf Coast Community Foundation has taken a leadership position to get things rolling through its Bright Ideas on the Gulf Coast (BIG) initiative and its Innovation Challenge initiative. The BIG initiative conducted an economic development strategy and cluster study, which outlines near-term blue economy strategies. In order to spur blue innovation, the Innovation Challenge offered a $500,000 incentive grant to entrepreneurs, scientists,
educators, conservationists and anyone else interested in growing marine science on our coast. There were many innovative ideas and programs that applied for the grant, which was awarded to Did you know that at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota nearly 100 scientists are researching disease resistance in sharks and the wound-healing capabilities of stingrays? Cortez in Manatee is the nation’s first producer of bottarga (sun-cured mullet roe) and is helping to break the cycle of selling local catch for pennies on the pound and bringing it back in at a much higher price. Recently, we have started commercially cultivating clams and oysters so don’t be surprised to see the “Sunray Venus” clam, being planted in Sarasota and Tampa Bays, on the menus of your favorite local restaurants. Creating thousands of jobs, feeding our community in sustainable ways, discovering new drugs, all adds up to millions of dollars and a major economic boom. This what a “blue economy” means and why we need to dive in. If that’s not a mover and shaker, what is?
Harvey Vengroff In a city as rich as Sarasota, low rent properties are scarce. Harvey Vengroff’s business model makes him money while doing good for others at the same time. He converts rundown motels into efficiency apartments for homeless people and takes no money from government housing affordability programs. Vengroff, who made his fortune in debt collection, sees this as “paying it forward” for his success in life. His life-changing business model gives hope and help to those who need it most and the chance for property owners to sell older downtrodden properties they thought they would never sell. In order not to get evicted, tenants must maintain a job, can’t drink alcohol or use drugs, and building security knock on doors everyday to ensure tenants are complying with the rules. If tenants are not working, they are brought to places with help wanted signs. Their $575 a month rent provides them a studio apartment with utilities and cable TV. Vengroff also owns several area properties he plans to develop into lower-income apartments so he can help fill the void in affordable housing in our market. If you’re interested in helping Harvey expand his business model, he has a team raising $100 million to expand beyond the Sarasota/Bradenton market. Go Harvey! February 2016
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Dean Eisner This former CEO of the auto auction company Manheim could have spent his retirement doing nothing but taking it easy, but that is not Dean Eisner. For Eisner, community and education have always been important, so he was dismayed to learn that so many bright, young people are leaving our area each year because of the lack of jobs. This motivated Eisner into action and eventually led him to a great idea. With all the retired CEOs and business executives here, why not leverage their knowledge, experience and contacts? So Eisner went to Gulf Coast Community Foundation and found the perfect partner to help launch his concept. Big Ideas on the Gulf Coast (BIG) was born. BIG likes to be considered a concierge service connecting people with bright ideas to the resources to stimulate and advance business growth. It helps entrepreneurs find the right sources for everything from a business plan, to marketing, to capital investment, technology and more to help them create a new business, grow their existing business, or connect them to others they could partner with on projects. BIG focuses on four industry sectors that it has identified as drivers of an innovation economy – Digital Arts, Innovative Health, Marine Science and Research, and Sports Performance. BIG has a panel of experts waiting to help and there are lots of entrepreneurs who have been helped already since BIG was formed in the fall of 2013. Thanks to people like Dean Eisner, big thinking is a way of life in our community and big results are following.
Dean Eisner, photo by Nancy Guth
Victor DeRenzi, Artistic Director | Richard Russell, Executive Director
Verdi’s
2016 WINTER OPERA FESTIVAL Mozart’s
Beethoven’s
Verdi’s
FEBRUARY 6–MARCH 12
FEBRUARY 13–MARCH 11
FEBRUARY 27–MARCH 18
JANUARY 30–MARCH 19 A warrior, a slave girl, and a princess. An epic tale of a love triangle in ancient Egypt.
Sung in the original language with English translations projected above the stage Seats start at just $19—Subscribe to all 4 operas for as little as $69
Get your tickets now at SARASOTAOPERA.ORG | (941) 328-1300 MEDIA SPONSORS
OPERA SEASON SPONSOR Paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax revenues. Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.
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With food this good, we know you’ll be back.
Join us at our relaxing and fun bar, meet new friends, people watch, and experience an eclectic continental mix of mouthwatering food reminiscent of old world traditions prepared, presented and served with modern excellence.
Where old world traditions meets modern excellence LUNCH | DINNER | DRINKS | AL FRESCO DINING 941.388.4415 | 431 St. Armands Circle cafeleurope.net | Reservations Recommended
Cruise the Gorgeous Gulf Coast Waters in a 42-Foot Private Charter
Choose Your Option from 2.5 Hours to 6 Days All Cruises include Captain, Mate, Ice & Water Catering Available or Bring Your Own On Board Sightseeing Cruises
Old Florida Smokehouse Restaurant
Sunset Cruises
BBQ, Brews & Bands Smack Dab on the River
Burials at Sea Wedding Party Pick Up & Drop Off Check Out Waterfront Homes – All Realtors Welcome
Call Captain Jack at 941.320.8700 www.SarasotaCharterVessel.com
Fresh BBQ Smoked In-House Daily Live Entertainment • 30+ Craft & Domestic Beers Canoe, Kayak & Paddle Boat Rentals
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2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS SARASOTA:
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A mile north of Bee Ridge Road on Tuttle Avenue on the big circle
On Venice Avenue & Pinebrook Road in the Publix shopping center
The State of L ooking for a place to live where you’ll find financial prosperity, a strong community and a sense
of purpose? Well then we are happy to report that
you have to look no further than right here. It seems that how
we feel about and what we experience in our daily lives in good old Sarasota/Bradenton tops how others feel anywhere else in our country.
Top Ten Communities for Well-Being 1) North Port – Sarasota – Bradenton 2) Urban Honolulu 3) Raleigh 4) Oxnard – Thousand Oaks – Ventura 5) El Paso 6) Austin – Round Rock 7) Provo – Orem 8) San Jose – Sunnyvale – Santa Clara 9) Washington – Arlington – Alexandria 10) Winston-Salem
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Our Well-Being
Bottom Ten Communities for Well-Being 91) Cincinnati 92) Detroit – Warren – Dearborn 93) Columbus 94) Scranton – Wilkes Barre – Hazleton 95) Deltona – Daytona Beach – Ormond Beach 96) Indianapolis – Carmel – Anderson 97) Dayton 98) Knoxville 99) Toledo 100) Youngstown – Warren - Boardman For the complete list visit well-beingindex.com
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Using a holistic definition of well-being and self-reported data from individuals across the U.S., the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index of our nation’s 100 largest communities released in 2015 taps North Port – Sarasota – Bradenton as having the nation’s highest well-being. Gallup and Healthways research tout their findings as the most proven, mature and comprehensive measure of well-being in populations. According to Gallup-Healthways, high well-being closely relates to key health outcomes such as lower rates of healthcare utilization, lower workplace absenteeism and better workplace performance, change in obesity status and new onset disease burden. The Well-Being Index provides a comprehensive view of well-being across five elements:
Purpose Liking what you do each day and being motivated to achieve your goals
Social Having supportive relationships and love in your life
Financial Managing your economic life to reduce stress and increase security
Community Liking where you live, feeling safe and having pride in your community 82
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Physical Having
good
health
and
enough energy to get things done daily Our area’s number one ranking showed a particularly strong physical, financial, and social well-being. Compared to residents of low well-being communities, residents of high well-being communities are:
12% more likely to learn new and interesting things 6% more likely to get positive energy from family and friends 16% less likely to worry about money 18% more likely to be proud of their community 25% less likely to have depression over their lifetime According to New York Times bestselling author, National Geographic Fellow and Blue Zones founder Dan Buettner, “In communities with higher well-being, we have found that people live longer, happier lives and business and local economies flourish. A reliable well-being metric provides community business leaders with the data and insights they need to help make sustained transformation a reality. After all, if you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it.” February 2016
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Child Protection Center of Sarasota Presents
4th al
Annu
Wednesday April 13, 2016
6:00 PM
Michael’s On East
$175 Per Person Blue Cocktail Attire
2016 pril 8, tbrite.com A y b RSVP 016btb.even t. 117 :2 Ex Online 41-365-1277, sota.org : 9 ara Phone renm@cpcs ka Email:
After Dark By Elizabeth Brissette, Colleen Fortier, Chloe Jing & Sogn Zamrzla
So what do college students like to do once the books close and the sun goes down? Sarasota/Bradenton has so many fun places to mix and mingle for young people, here are just a few of our favorites. And even though we’re 20 something, no matter HOW OLD YOU ARE, we think you’ll enjoy them too!
Ringling After 5 & Ringling Underground For a culture shock, check out Ringling After 5! Every Thursday night, The Ringling Museum stays open after regular hours from 5 - 8 p.m. There you can enjoy historic paintings and sculptures within the museum or take a stroll by the gulf with some friends. Ringling Underground, the first Thursday of every month from 8 – 11 p.m. features rocking live music, art installations, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Local college students can enter both events for free. 5401 Bay Shore Road | Sarasota | ringling.org/events/series/art-after-5
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Gecko’s Team Trivia Challenge If you love Jeopardy, you’ll love coming to Gecko’s on Wednesday nights for their free Team Trivia Challenge. The fun starts at 7:30 p.m., but if trivia isn’t your thing, the big screens are always showing the latest sports events and the food and beverages are not to be missed. 2-for-1 well drinks are available anytime, but don’t forget to try their daily specials. If the inside is too noisy, enjoy the quiet of Hillview Street from their patio seating. 1900 Hillview Street | Sarasota | geckosgrill.com
Paranormal Society of Bradenton Located in downtown Bradenton, the Paranormal Society offers a spooky-good ghost tour for all ages. The tour begins at Pier 22, which was named in remembrance of 22 soldiers who died when the pier burned down in 1878 — an eerie start for a ghost tour! There are 15 stops total, including McCabe’s, the Hampton Inn, and the Courthouse, which all have their own unique and horrifying stories. They save the best for last where people have the opportunity to try communicating with spirits by using EMF meters! Pier 22 | 1st Avenue | West Bradenton | paranormalsocietyofbradenton.wordpress.com
Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex This sports complex features two NHL-sized ice rinks. You can learn how to skate, play hockey, or participate on the adult hockey team. There’s also an indoor turf field for soccer and adult flag football, if skates aren’t for you. After an intense workout, experience Massage Therapy by Brian Smith and Integrated Body Therapies or simply spend some time in the interactive video game room. If the heat of Florida is getting unbearable, this cool place is a must-do! 5309 29th Street East | Ellenton | ellentonice.com
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Burns Court Cinema This three-screen cinema is located in the historic Southside district of downtown Sarasota. Reminiscent of a Parisian film, the atmosphere is quiet, peaceful, and romantic. Experience first-run foreign, independent, and art films along with their beer, wine, and popcorn. Enjoy old-world splendor as you watch terrific films on the big screen. 506 Burns Court | Sarasota | filmsociety.org
Office Bar The downtown Office Bar specializes in craft beverages with cool office-themed names. While you’re sipping on their local craft beers and handmade cocktails, there are pool tables and dartboards to entertain with friends. If you prefer a bit of relaxation, there are upstairs and downstairs lounge areas. After a long day at the office, it’s easy to unwind at the Office Bar! 1989 Ringling Boulevard | Sarasota | eviesonline.com/officebarsrq
Cock and Bull This bar (above) is a foot-stomping time no matter the night of the week. It may look a bit "rustic" from the outside, but their open mic nights and weekend live music events are always worth attending. For those of you who enjoy adult beverages, they have 38 beers on tap and over 500 different bottled beers. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, their homemade pizzas are made with fresh, local ingredients. Don’t forget to explore the carnival circus patio out back. 975 Cattlemen Road | Sarasota | cnbpub.com
The City Pier Restaurant Located at the tip of Anna Maria Island is the historic City Pier Restaurant. Go late-night fishing with pals, grab a snack and drinks on the water during restaurant hours and enjoy a refreshing evening on the water under the stars. With a beautiful view of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in the horizon, you can’t go wrong. 100 South Bay Boulevard | Anna Maria Island
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perfect a
Partnership
When two come together to create something great. The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and the Van Wezel Foundation, continuing to work together to deliver first class children’s educational programming for our community. With the Foundation’s support, more than 25,000 students from four counties are provided with programs and access to the theatre each season to experience the arts through the Schooltime Program. Won’t you show your support and help us continue to keep the children coming?
To learn more, please contact us at (941) 366-5578 or visit us at vwfoundation.org.
Scenes from an Interview
Frank Galati
Not an Accidental Tourist Anymore By Gus Mollasis
As a tourist of the theatrical planet known as earth, he has earned a AAA rating for living a life filled with spirited acting, ambitious adaptations and many enviable accomplishments. He’s won two Tony Awards – one for adapting the iconic John Steinbeck classic, The Grapes of Wrath, at Chicago’s famed Steppenwolf Theatre, and one for directing that same classic on Broadway. His talents stretch from the footlights to the big screen where he’s credited with a best screenplay Oscar nomination for his work on the critically acclaimed Lawrence Kasdan film The Accidental Tourist. No matter where Frank Galati’s creative journeys take him, the stage is definitely home. One part Ma Joad’s son, one part innovative Broadway director, and one hundred percent a MidWestern boy at heart, he’s always had a thing for theater and thankfully theater has always had a thing for him. His dreams have been his map, often leading him to places where theatrical projects needed his unique artist’s touch. Whether acting, directing or adapting the written word, Frank Galati seems to be exactly where he needs to be, and right now that is Sarasota. He is an accidental tourist no more. He’s left a major mark at Asolo Repertory Theatre directing an array of hits including 12 Angry Men, My Fair Lady, and The Grapes of Wrath. Recently, as we sat down together at Asolo Rep, I couldn’t wait to go to all the places he’s been and listen to the many dramatic and colorful scenes from an interview of his life. Where were you born? Highland Park, Illinois. It is a wonderful town and Steppenwolf Theatre was born there as well. Describe one of your favorite scenes from your childhood. Wow. They were all awful. (Laughs) My dad was a dog trainer and breeder and had a kennel business and was one of the first breeders and boarders of dogs on the North Shore. So a lot of wealthy and famous people brought their dogs to my dad’s place. It was like a dog spa.
The Accidental Tourist has many dog scenes. Is that where that came from? No, it’s coincidental. Dogs figured importantly in the novel The Accidental Tourist. I adapted the movie from the novel. What kind of student were you growing up? Mediocre. Very undistinguished as a kid. I took accordion lessons for a while. I loved the drama of the Catholic mass. I was raised a Catholic. When I was in high school, I was taken to see a production of My Fair Lady performed by the touring company around 1956 or 1957.
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Photo by Cliff Roles
Is that when you first fell in love with theater, the written word and the arts? Yes. That was my first theater experience. Can you imagine? My Fair Lady with Brian Aherne and Anne Rogers. It was the first national tour and it played at the Shubert Theatre in Chicago. I went with my high school class. As soon as I got home from the matinee on the late winter afternoon, I was inspired. I remember it was dark and the snow was piled high. The snow was very blue and the sky was very bright and it was very cold and I came inside and I got some cardboard and started cutting it up and taping it together to make a little model of the set I had just seen. I had never, ever seen anything like it. There were little houses in the Covent Garden section with little kiosks, and some of them had chimneys with smoke coming out of them. It was just magic. And of course the score by Lerner and Lowe was just a masterpiece. I was so grateful to direct it here at Asolo Rep a few seasons ago. In essence, you had come full circle in directing My Fair Lady so many years after first seeing it. Yes, in a way it was full circle. It was a great thrill for me to direct it here and a fantastic experience. It made me appreciate the genius of the storytelling, and how brilliant and exquisitely well written it is, how funny it is, and how faithful it is to Shaw’s Pygmalion. It also made me appreciate the ingenious score and how gorgeous the melodies are, even the somewhat experimental notion of having the Henry Higgins character “speak-sing” instead of “sing-sing”, which gives the show marvelous color. When we did it here, the actor that we had playing Higgins did very much the same thing as most people do who play the part. Directing the play took me back to my youth and the magic that it gave from the first time I saw it performed.
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Photo by Juan Davila
Where were you educated? I went to Glenbrook High school, which at the time in the late 50s had a fairly advanced, sophisticated program in the arts, particularly theater. We had a great music department and terrific drama department. We always did Gilbert and Sullivan operettas and musicals. So I was in plays in high school. After graduating, I couldn’t afford anything but a state school. I worked for a quarter and then I went down to Western Illinois University in Macomb. I entered there as a freshman in theater. At the end of the second semester, I went home and some friends encouraged me to go a school that would challenge me more than a small state school. So I applied for a scholarship to Northwestern and was floored when they accepted me. I did all my undergraduate work at Northwestern. I was very involved in performance, in writing, directing, acting a lot and performing non dramatic texts. I studied fiction. We had a brilliant teacher, Robert Breen, who believed that students could acquire an organic sense of what a work of literature really is by embodying it physically and vocally. He felt that studying the short story was a wonderful exercise for actors. So if you wanted to become an actor, you were just as keen on taking this course as you might have been had you been an English major. I studied with him and he was magnificent. He became my major professor. I stayed in Northwestern and did my MA there. This was around 1966 when the Vietnam War was raging. Many of my friends who were conscientious objectors, like myself, went to Canada. At this time, if you had a teacher’s deferment, that is to say if you taught at a state school, you were exempt from the draft, because in those days everyone was in the pool to be drafted to go into the Army. So I got a job teaching at the University of South Florida in Tampa, where I taught for two years. I had such a great experience and did a tremendous amount of directing and adapting. I was in the speech depart-
Photo of Frank Galati in The Tempest by Michael Brosilow
ment. We taught poetry, fiction, not so much plays. Anyway, I loved it. I loved it and I thought this is what I really want to do. How do you know when the play is ready for the audience? You begin to become weary of it. (Laughs heartily) You tire of the repetition of telling the story without the benefit of the fuel that really drives the story, which is the audience. You don’t know how to tell a story until someone is listening to you. What is the hardest part of your business? I think it’s the commercial part. It’s the way in which the art part can sometimes be squeezed and misshaped by the money part. Ambitions for a regional theater such as Asolo Rep in the national landscape are to take a show to New York. Very often that distorts and obscures and gets in the way of sometime the clearest and the most creative and freest kind of work. If you have a producer who is leaning on your shoulder, breathing down your neck saying, “What am I looking at?” “What is this cue?” You become hounded. I speak from some experience. The liberty and the freedom of working in an arena where you are not in a life and death project is the way to work. What is the part that gives you the most satisfaction? The best part has everything to do with what you can feel that the audience is receiving. It’s not about how good they are on the stage. It’s about how this interaction is proceeding. Sometimes we will get a call or note that will say, “I can’t say that your play changed my life, but it changed my mind. It changed my heart.” Describe the feeling you get on opening night when the lights go down in the theater. (Rolls his eyes and smiles) I have not watched an opening
Photo of Rob Riddle, Jesse Dornan, Brandon Dahlquist, and Andrew Boyer in Asolo Rep’s 1776, by Juan Davila
night performance in about 35 years. And it’s selfish, because it becomes kind of torture for me. I have a number of colleagues who are the same and who can’t watch. It’s like being strapped to a table and being water-boarded. There is absolutely nothing you can do. You can’t even take notes. It would be pointless because you’re not going to see them again. You’re not going to rehearse again. The mishaps, the train wrecks, the catastrophes that you can imagine happening on opening night and that often do happen on opening night are better not to be experienced. Tell me the first thing that comes to mind when I say Steppenwolf Theatre. Brotherhood, family, brothers and sisters. I go way back with them. I met John Malkovich when he was in college and they were forming and founding the theater. I was kind of like an uncle, always in the wings. But in 1985 after many attempts of trying to put a project together, Gary Sinise, who was then the artistic director, asked me if I would like to do a holiday show - You Can’t Take it With You. I was free from teaching at Northwestern at the time and I enthusiastically accepted. The number of Steppenwolf people in it was huge. Amy Morton, Randall Arney, Tom Irwin, Jeff Perry and Rondi Reed. So after we were working on it for a couple of weeks, after rehearsal Gary Sinise calls me into his office and says, “Man, we’d like you to be a member of the ensemble.” Well I was floored. I thought they were a kind of secret society. I never anticipated or expected this. So naturally I was honored and I accepted. Let’s talk about your work on The Grapes of Wrath for which you have received two Tony Awards. How did that project come to be? After Gary (Sinise) asked if I’d become a member of the ensemble, in the same conversation he said to me, “You should February 2016
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be thinking of something you would like to do, that you think would be good for all of us, and an acting company of our size.” I immediately said, “What about The Grapes of Wrath?” I always loved the book and read it when I was in high school and I taught it when I was at Northwestern. I was going to put it in during a summer program, as part of a two or three evening performance kind of like a Nicholas Nickleby, because I wanted to do the whole thing. But I couldn’t get the rights. Even though we were part of the university, they declined to give us permission to do a staged adaptation. When I suggested The Grapes of Wrath to Gary, I knew that he and John (Malkovich) had already successfully done Of Mice and Men. I also knew they had played in
New York in True West and Balm in Gilead and had a presence already in New York. So Gary said, “That’s a terrific idea and I’ll get on it right away.” They went to Mrs. Steinbeck, Elaine, John Steinbeck’s widow and so the publisher said to her, “There’s this theater company in Chicago and they want to do The Grapes of Wrath on stage. Would you be interested in giving them permission?” She said “Who are they? What are they called?” She was told Steppenwolf and she said, “Ooh. I saw them. I saw Balm in Gilead and True West.” So pending approval of the script, she gave us permission. She turned out to be one of the great boosters and supporters. She was a fantastic person. She loved it. She was at every opening from London to California.
Finish the following sentences: Good writing is good when… It is lucid, charged with energy, and anchored to the truth.
Bad writing is bad because… It’s ornate, self-indulgent and “show-offy.” If the writing is so opaque and the style is so dense that you can’t see through the style to what’s being thought or evoked, you might be having an aesthetic experience, but you’re not necessarily experiencing good writing.
Theater is great when it…
her son Tom who has been released from prison. She has no expectation of seeing him and she looks at him and she says, “Oh Tom. I knowed it was you.” The way she spoke his name, “Tom,” it’s hard to explain, it makes him. He doesn’t have to do anything. He is Tom.
As an actor I was good because … I could remember my lines. (Laughs) Which I’m less and less able to do.
As a writer I am good because…
Pierces the heart. It is great when you are overcome as a spectator by the solidarity that you feel with other human beings. Being in an audience, like being in a congregation, I guess, is an experience of collectivity and community that is truly profound and is absolutely essential to the conduct of good human life.
I’m not really so much a writer as I am an arranger or adaptor. I like arranging things and rearranging things. For me, the process of adapting is the writing. I have to find the play that is hiding in the novel. And that means clearing away everything that isn’t the play.
A good director will always…
As a director I am good because…
Listen.
I know an actor is good when… I’m surprised. When the voice is ignited by an inner truth, you can hear it. You can hear it in the voice. We don’t talk about this enough in theater training, but the voice is everything. The body is obviously everything as well. The body and the voice are inextricably bound together. I have been fortunate to work with really great people like Lois Smith who played Ma Joad in the original production of The Grapes of Wrath we did at Steppenwolf and on Broadway – she is a perfect example. I came into an office about this size and there was a sofa here (points around the corner). I didn’t know where she was, but I knew she was somewhere in the room. She was sitting on the sofa and I turned just in time for her to say, “Oh Hellooo…” as she reached her hand out to me. The vowel. The sound. The resonance of her voice. She is 86 and she just got a rave review in the New York Times. And I have told her this too, when we had the first rehearsal of The Grapes of Wrath, and her first line on stage, as she comes into the backyard from the kitchen and there is
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I try to listen. It was Sam Mendes who said, “A good director takes advantage of every person in the room.” It’s not that it’s my idea. It’s the best idea. Whoever has the best idea, let’s go with the best idea.
A professional is someone who… Is disciplined and respectful of his or her colleagues and someone who is on time because other people are depending on him or her to be on time. And a professional is consistent, because a performance can only be spontaneous and free if it’s disciplined and controlled.
I love theater because… It is a place where all aspects of human life and aspiration intersect. Political. Social. Sexual. Cultural. Imagination-al. (Laughs) Rational. Irrational. You name it. It is the site of contention. Gertrude Stein used to say, “A landscape is such a perfect arrangement for a battle or a play that one must write plays.” If you look at Shakespeare, as psychological as his theatrical space is, it’s almost always a battlefield.
Frank Galati & Jon Michael Hill in The Tempest, photo by Michael Brosilow
Frank Galati, Dame Maggie Smith, Jessica Tandy, Matthew Broderick, & Robert Morse at the 1990 Tony Awards
How much more pressure was there in taking and adapting such an iconic classic to the stage? There was lots and it’s kind of a complicated story. I really admire the film and think it is gorgeous. It’s beautifully acted and the cinematography is incredible but it does a considerable disservice to the novel at the end of the film. Rose of Sharon does not lose her baby as she does in the novel. And that controversial scene in which she gives her breast to the starving man, Steinbeck’s publishers tried to get him to cut that, so he ended up going to another publisher. I thought to myself, “Who the hell am I to think that I’m going to take The Grapes of Wrath on stage after that magnificent film and this huge novel?” And I thought, “wait a second. It deserves to be told the way it was conceived. At the end with a Madonna giving suck to a starving man, as taboo as that whole idea is in many cultures, it is a pieta’ of grace and transcendence. It is spiritual. It lifts you up. Forget about the theater. It’s life. And that is what happened to the audience. It happened here when we did The Grapes of Wrath a couple a years ago in Michael Edward’s brilliant production. It happened every time that play was played where audiences realized at the end that they were bearing witness to something that was real. How did you first become associated with Asolo Rep? When I was teaching at the University of South Florida, I came down here a couple times to see shows. I was very aware of the high quality of work here going back to the 60s. After I retired from teaching at Northwestern, I moved to Miami and my partner and I were in Coconut Grove. The Coconut Grove Playhouse seemed like it would be a viable venue to occasionally work in, but it went belly up right when I got there. My partner Peter came over here to direct the one-person show, It’s A Wonderful Life, and that’s when I met Michael (Edwards). A year later he was going to do a co-production of 12 Angry Men with Maltz Jupiter Theatre and asked if I would be interested. So I did 12 Angry Men starting in Jupiter and then most of the cast came over to Asolo Rep where it was a smash.
Is there a creative mantra that you live by? Walter Kerr, who was drama critic for the New York Times for many years, wrote a book about playwriting titled How’s Your Second Act? One of the things that he says in the book is, “Cut every third laugh.” When I read that I thought, are you kidding? There is nothing more valuable in the theater than a laugh. Why would you want to cut a laugh? But it’s taken me years to realize that cutting and efficiently editing a disciplined reduction are essential. If I have a mantra, disciplined reduction would be it. Sometimes that can be so difficult, but as William Faulkner said, “In writing, you must kill all your darlings.” Yes, absolutely. The first performance of The Grapes of Wrath in Chicago was over four hours long. The next day I said to the cast, “I’m not coming to the performance. I’m staying at home and I’m going to work on the script and we’ve got to cut it.” I cut 25 minutes out of the show in one day. Tell me about your experience of writing with Lawrence Kasdan and earning an Oscar nomination for best adapted screenplay for The Accidental Tourist? I had no experience of working with him. I wrote a draft of a screenplay and my agent circulated it to a number of directors that included Lawrence Kasdan. He really loved it. He gave it the green light. And then he threw my script out (laughs) because he’s a very accomplished screenwriter as well. So then he did his own screenplay. Did any of your words survive the cut so to speak and make it into the film? Oh, yes, yes. That’s why I’m credited. We both were nominated for an Academy Award. I’m very proud of that and I am very happy to be finally connected with Lawrence Kasdan. What happened was they had a couple of readings and it kind of wasn’t working. So they went back to my script, and they February 2016
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kept coming back to it and using more and more of it. The way it works with the Screenwriter’s Guild is that no one connected with the project has any say in determining credit. All of that is given to people who adjudicate what they perceive is the percentage of work done by each contributor. They send you a copy of the shooting script after it has been shot with colored pages that indicate all the yellow pages are yours, all the green pages are Lawrence Kasdan, all the white are somebody else. Then they ask you to be honest and estimate the percentage of the script that you think you’re responsible for. My agent at the time from William Morris said, “I know this is very hard to do, but just tell me honestly is it more than 50 percent?” I told him it’s more than 50 percent. I would be inclined to say that it’s 75 percent, but I would have to count words. Anyway, they sent it to the jury and I got top billing. It wasn’t until we were nominated for an Academy Award that I met Lawrence Kasdan for the first time at the Academy Awards. Recently I screened the picture. It still holds up and it is a wonderful film. Thank you. That means a lot to me. For me, Geena Davis was my favorite part of the experience. I did get to speak to her at the Oscar after party and I asked her if I could hold her Academy Award. And she let me do it. That thing is heavy.
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What is your advice to those who choose to follow in your footsteps and go into the arts? Be gentle with this life. As Studs Terkel used to say when he signed off from his radio show, “Take it easy, but take it.” It’s hard and the path is not clear. If you could write or direct the final scene in your life, how would it end? How would it end? (Pause) I wish it could be an overture.
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February 2016
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Saving Florida, One Person at a Time Patience Johnson
T
“
By Ryan G. Van Cleave | Photo by Nancy Guth
he environment needs our help,” says Patience Johnson, a long-time snowbird from Maine and a recent full-time Nokomis resident. “We’re so lucky to live here in the United States where we have the opportunities that we have. Appreciation is a huge word for me. I always look for ways to give back.”
She has good reason to be concerned about the level
Since then, Johnson has made arrangements for a planned
we’re caring for the environment. Over the next 25 years,
gift that will ensure Conservation Foundation’s work is sup-
the population in our region is expected to grow by almost
ported long into the future. And her support doesn’t stop
40%. And the Conservation Foundation reports that nearly
there. With 30 years in the real estate business, eight years
2.7 million acres of native habitat will be lost to roads, shop-
of service as a county commissioner, and her background in
ping malls, and subdivisions within the next 45 years. It’s a
volunteering, Patience Johnson is a most welcome addition
concerning situation, to be sure, but there’s hope.
to the work of saving natural lands forever.
Back in Maine, notes Johnson, they have the Land for
Giving back is Johnson’s philosophy. Add in her love for
Maine’s Future program. Ongoing for nearly 20 years, it set
nature, and her partnership with the Conservation Founda-
aside to purchase and conserve land for future generations.
tion — as a financial supporter, an advocate, and a new vol-
To date, over half a million acres of conservation and recre-
unteer — makes perfect sense. “If we don’t do something
ation lands have been protected along with 54 water access
now,” she says, “lands will be developed without any plan-
sites, 24 commercial working waterfront properties, and 40
ning about what should be saved. There won’t be any 150-
farms of more than 9,700 acres.
foot buffer zones for natural habitats like we had in Maine.
“I thought that’s what was happening here, too,” says Johnson about Amendment 1, the Florida Water and Land
We should have more respect for what God gave us. Animals. Trees. Water.”
Conservation Amendment, which will generate about $750
While Johnson finds ways to support other area organi-
million in bonds this year, a large portion of which was in-
zations and causes — she’s a roving Ambassador at SRQ air-
tended to buy environmentally significant lands. “But that’s
port, and she volunteers for the Samaritan Counseling Group
not the case. It’s disconcerting. When 75% of the people vote
where they help underprivileged people get counseling, to
for something to be done, it should be done. And Amend-
name just two — it’s her appreciation for nature that she
ment 1 was supposed to protect our land.”
keeps returning to. She’s an avid supporter of Historic Spanish
Yet she’s not sitting back and hoping someone else will do
Point and she visits Myakka River State Park often. And she
something or trusting that the politicians will eventually get it
loves to roam the 2.25-mile boardwalk that wends through
right. Johnson’s a person to step up and do what she can, and
Corkscrew Swamp, a National Audubon Society sanctuary
that includes stepping up to strongly support Conservation
that protects one of the largest remaining populations of bald
Foundation. “I attended a meeting of theirs five years ago,
and pond cypress.
but when I moved here for good about a year ago, I called them up and asked, ‘What can I do to help?’
“More people come to Florida for the wildlife than to any other state,” says Conservation Foundation President February 2016
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artist surgeon.”
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Christine Johnson. “Our quality of life is a gift. We have an exceptional lifestyle because of our natural environment. We can’t forget that. It’s our cultural identity and our way of life.” Patience Johnson explains, “I’m into preserving what I can help preserve.” She points to Palmer Ranch and how it was developed years ago. “It has such nice green space. If you drive down Honore or McIntosh, there’s so much green. You can see birds. You can see ponds. If
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the way to do it. Respect the land and try to work with it.” Whether it’s advocating for better laws against reckless development or helping others find ways to land, she’s all in. “I’ve made a commitment to this area. I want to see a lot of green space. I want the natural habitat to remain.” Perhaps the best way to reveal what Johnson’s about is to share this story. Her favorite part of the recent holiday
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season happened at a local Bob Evans restaurant. In line behind her at the register was a man whose body was failing such that he had a hard time walking. “He wore a veteran’s hat,” she noted. She turned to him and asked him for the bill for his meal so she could pay it. “You don’t have to do that,” the former soldier said. “I know I don’t need to,” she explained. “But I want to.” That’s just how Johnson operates. She sees the opportunity to make a difference and then she seizes it. With the help of concerned, dedicated people like Johnson, Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast is positioned to ensure that future generations will experience the rich beauty that Florida offers. That’s good news for us all. For more information on Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast, please visit www.conservationfoundation.com or call 941.918.2100.
The Louis & Gloria Flanzer Philanthropic Trust at the Jewish Family & Children’s Service of the Suncoast Inc.
P
By Ryan G. Van Cleave | Photo by Nancy Guth
erhaps the only thing more impressive than the great love Gloria and Lou showed for each other during their 66 years of marriage is the generosity behind their longstanding commitment to philanthropy. “I can’t begin to tell you about the tens of millions of dollars that
Gloria and Lou Flanzer gave away during their lives,” says attorney Eric Kaplan, a co-trustee of The Louis & Gloria Philanthropic Trust, who has been a family friend, advisor, and business administrator for the Flanzers for decades. “Their decision to leave the entire estate to charity is fully consistent with that. They always felt that they had an obligation to give back.” Gloria came from the Milstein family — a surname many in New York would recognize. Her family is among the most noteworthy in New York’s development circles, having played a significant role in restoring Battery Park City, Lower Harlem, and Times Square, among many other accomplishments. Prior to moving to Florida, Gloria and Lou — a successful real estate developer and manager — endowed many facilities in the arts, social services, and healthcare. At New York Presbyterian Hospital alone there’s the Flanzer Auditorium, the Gloria and Louis Flanzer Vision Center, the Flanzer Cardiac Care Center, and the Milstein Hospital Building. White Plains Hospital has the Flanzer Center for Emergency and Critical Care as well as the Flanzer Pavilion. The list goes on and on. Yet while the couple retained a home in Scarsdale, New York, they were Florida residents through and
through. They fell in love with Sarasota during a business trip and quickly established a home in Longboat Key. Gloria, in particular, adored this area. “When they got off the plane here,” says Kaplan, “she says it was like they were reborn. They loved Longboat Key and the greater Sarasota area. It was their home.” It’s no surprise, then, that the Flanzers began to support charities here just like they did in New York. One of the beneficiaries of their largesse is Sarasota Memorial Hospital. When Dr. Dean Hautamaki of Sarasota Memorial Hospital told her that the hospital needed equipment to better serve those in the middle of heart incidents, she ran the request by a trusted cardiologist from New York — their primary care physician and Chief of Cardiology at New York Presbyterian Hostpial, Dr. Allan Schwartz — who agreed
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Eric Kaplan & Henry Trawick
that the requested equipment was indeed critically useful. She
did too,” says attorney Henry Trawick, a co-trustee of the
called up Kaplan and told him to FedEx a check to the hos-
trust and longtime family friend.
pital. Some years later, when the equipment had reached the
What truly impressed Gloria was how Rose Chapman,
end of its useful life, Gloria directed it to be replaced at her
president and CEO of JFCS, would give a multi-page report
expense. “If you ask Dr. Hautamaki,” Kaplan says, “he’ll tell
that detailed exactly how her donation was spent. No one else
you that hundreds if not thousands of lives in the Sarasota
did that, Kaplan says. They just cashed the checks and forgot
community have been saved because of that equipment.”
about the Flanzers until more money was needed.” That made
While the Flanzers were deeply concerned with support-
such an impact on Gloria that when she realized the desperate
ing healthcare — Lou suffered from arterial fibrillation, and
need JFCS had for more space because their Fruitville Road
Gloria had two heart valve replacements — Kaplan reveals
building was overcrowded, she told Rose to find a building and
that their favorite charity “bar none with bullets” was Jewish
that she’d pay for it. And she did. Kaplan says, “Not just an eq-
Family & Children's Service of the Suncoast Inc., or JFCS.
uity portion, either, but the entire building and everything in it
Kaplan explains, “Lou was an internationalist. He truly loved
from chairs to plants to art, and she even donated some of her
to travel. He was simply mesmerized by different cultures,
own art because Gloria wanted things her way. She was a will-
different art, different places.” What Lou appreciated most
ful woman who knew what she liked and what she didn’t. She
about JFCS was that while 80% of the individual donor sup-
never felt any restriction in telling people what she wanted.”
port came from Jewish sources, 80% of the disbursement
That included choosing the exact menu for the ribbon-cutting
went to non-Jewish beneficiaries. “He loved that fact. Gloria
ceremony. She even arrived three hours before the event to February 2016
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ensure that all was set up as she wanted it. Now the Gloria & Louis Flanzer Campus on Ringling Boulevard offers caregiver support groups for families with patients suffering from dementia-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s, something Gloria knew well after being Lou’s long-time caregiver after he developed the disease. She always understood the importance of not just helping those with the disease, but also the people who struggle to care for those with dementia. She once told Kaplan, “I’ve been fortunate to have been able to provide Lou with the best care that money can buy. I’ve been able to keep him at home. I’ve been able to draw upon people who can support me.” But she knew others didn’t have that luxury and she wanted to help. To that end, she instructed the trust to put aside $1.25 million to help cover the operating costs for the next five years. “It’s important to note that the engineering, the architectural work, and the supervision of the construction was all generously donated by the Benderson family, spearheaded by Shawn Benderson,” Kaplan points out. “One time, Lou was going to meet the late Nate Benderson for breakfast at the Ritz Carlton. Nate arrived on a bicycle, and that impressed the hell out of Lou. They were both unpretentious people, and they became fast friends.” Perhaps because Lou was a WWII veteran, Gloria had a soft spot in her heart for veterans. When she saw on the news that so many local veterans were suffering, she immediately asked Rose Chapman to locate the 10 most desperate cases she could find and provide a detailed list of exactly what it’d cost to solve their problems. Gloria didn’t like how the men came home from WWII as heroes — they got to attend college on the GI Bill and the could live affordably in new housing complexes — yet the soldiers who come home today are ignored or
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forgotten. The injustice of it made her angry. “Gloria read through every one,” says Kaplan of the cases Rose Chapman and JFCS found, “and she decided which ones she found most in need. Then she sent a check directly to JFCS to ensure these families could stay in their homes, keep their jobs because they now had dependable transportation, and get the medical care they needed.” Trawick adds, “That’s the type of woman she was. A difference maker.” The Veterans Initiative was Gloria’s last, and she personally oversaw the commencement of the program and put in place systems and guidelines. She wanted it to be her last honor to Lou. While the Flanzers are no longer here to witness the huge impact they’ve made in their new home of Sarasota — Lou passed away in 2013, and Gloria in 2015 — the gift they’ve made to the community they loved will continue to change lives today, tomorrow, and for years to come. For more information on Jewish Family & Children’s Service of the Suncoast Inc., please visit www.jfcs-cares.org or call 941.366.2224.
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EDUCATION
USF Sarasota-Manatee's College of Science & Mathematics By Ryan G. Van Cleave
Starting this fall, USF Sarasota-Manatee will
born said. “Having this new college will allow us
introduce a new College of Science & Mathe-
to have all of our science, chemistry, physics, bi-
matics to better serve its students and the lo-
ology and math classes working together. We’ll
cal community. This change will not create an
be able to put faculty and staff together to better
additional college but is the result of restructur-
focus on specific areas to build synergies.”
ing. “The net effect is that we’re not adding any
One challenge in creating a new college will
programs, nor are we losing any,” said Dr. Terry
be to identify a dean to oversee it. That process
Osborn, regional vice chancellor for academic
is underway, but a hire of that level can take six
and student affairs. “We have four colleges now
months to a year to complete. Dr. Osborn said
and we’ll still have four colleges this fall. They
the ideal candidate will possess a clear vision
will just be structured differently.”
for success: “We want someone who recognizes
In addition to the new College of Science
the importance of community in the work we do
& Mathematics, USFSM is already home to a
here at the university, and that person likely will
College of Business and College of Hospitality &
be someone who can bridge the gap between
Tourism Leadership. The campus’ fourth college,
what happens in the working world and the ed-
the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, will be
ucational world, as well as someone who is able
created from the merger of the College of Arts &
to collaborate effectively within the university.”
Sciences and College of Education. “This a very exciting time for us,” Dr. Os-
As the area’s research university, USF Sarasota-Manatee is committed to fields of study reFebruary 2016
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NOW PLAYING
lated to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). According to www.stemflorida.net, demand for jobs requiring STEM proficiency has increased 63 percent in Florida since 2010, a trend mirrored throughout the United States. In keeping with labor demands, USFSM has employed professors and other teaching faculty proficient in STEM fields. “These are people who not only teach what we need to know, but also add to the body of knowledge (through their research),” Dr.
“DEFIANTLY SMART” - The Observer
Osborn said. Being able to work with “difference makers” in classrooms that have a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio is how USFSM is able to offer a top-tier education. Looking ahead, the campus’ commitment to STEM fields can only build up future enrollment. Additionally, creating a College of Science & Mathematics will enable USFSM to develop programs in accordance
By Richard Strand
“SURPRISINGLY HILARIOUS” - Sarasota Herald-Tribune
Shane Taylor, Eric Hoffmann. Photo by Matthew Holler.
with its five-year strategic plan as well as with Florida’s performance-based metrics system. Achieving those metrics remains a top goal for USFSM. They include: job placement for graduates, high average salaries for graduates, new programs of strategic importance (i.e., math and science) and more graduates with STEM degrees. USF Sarasota-Manatee’s emphasis on science-related studies has been well received. A year after launching a new biology major in 2014, the program has become one the largest and fastest-growing on campus. In part that’s due to USFSM’s strong partnership with Mote Marine Laboratory and its teaching labs, which allows students to receive handson training from USFSM faculty and Mote scientists. “We’ve tapped into an area of interest,” Regional Chancellor Dr. Sandra Stone said. “There’s a clear need in our community for graduates with a biology background. We’d like to grow out our science program and bring in more physics, math, chemistry, and technology-based programs. That’s where many higher-paying jobs are for graduates.” Students interested in science-based programs are notic-
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“Let It Be,” “Satisfaction,” and “I’m Into Something Good.” Eric Scott Anthony, Hunter Brown, John Bronston, Ben Mackel. Photo by Matthew Holler.
366-9000
Richard Hopkins, Producing Artistic Director
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�oridastudiotheatre.org
ing that USF Sarasota-Manatee is a viable local option. “It’s a good thing when a local institution with a research faculty becomes organized in such a way to capitalize on the strengths of the university to benefit the area,” Dr. Obsorn said. “The real winners here are our students and the community.” Added Dr. Stone: “We are your hometown campus. It’s in everybody’s best interest that we drive forward and succeed. That success cycles around.” For more information on the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee or its College of Science & Mathematics, please visit usfsm.edu or call 941-359-4603.
Buzz
The
Around Town
F
By Suzette Jones
ebruary is quite the month on the social scene with lots going on for all of you party lovers and community supporters. The glamour of Conservation Foundation’s Palm Ball and its beautiful setting at Bay Preserve in Osprey makes this February 6 event one of the best and most talked about in town. Josh Groban entertains
February 28 at the Van Wezel Foundation Gala. Beauty, power and speed take center state during Sarasota Exotic Car Fest from February 19 – 21 all for a good cause –United Cerebral Palsy. As I write about these and other upcoming charity events in this column, I can’t help but feel such gratitude for the people, companies and organizations that do so much for our community. They are all treasured resources that shine a bright light on our lives and make such a powerful difference. My teenage daughter was recently nursed back to health after a holiday run-in with a nasty infection contracted during a Caribbean cruise that resulted in two hospital stays. While it was incredibly scary, knowing that everyone from our pediatrician, Dr. Jacqueline Kelly, to the teams at Sarasota Memorial Hospital and All Children’s Hospital, were actively pursuing answers gave me comfort. This is the second time in two years these teams have shown their excellence. In 2014, my daughter underwent open-heart surgery to repair an Atrial Septic Defect (ASD) that had gone undetected since birth. Because of this experience, she has been asked to represent Sarasota area children served by All Children’s Hospital at The Miracle Ball: Miracles in the Making at All Children’s Hospital Guild Sarasota/Manatee Branch’s signature fundraising event on Saturday, February 27 at the Hyatt Regency. Co-chairs Amanda Fernandez and Suzi Minahan tell me this year the Guild is raising funds for local outreach programs to support and enhance All Children’s Hospital Nursing Excellence and to purchase a new pediatric ambulance. While many think of All Children’s Hospital as a “St. Pete facility,” the hospital in St. Pete, its Sarasota outpatient facility, and Sarasota Memorial pediatric specialists serve over 30,000 children in Sarasota and Manatee every year bringing pediatric specialized care and services close to home. To raise awareness and to help support the Guild, I plan on celebrating my February birthday by hosting a table at the Miracle Ball. If you would like to join me, call Lydia Landa at 941.923.0299 for tickets. A new event on my radar is Tea For The Sea taking place February 5 at the Resort at Longboat Key Harbourside Dining Room. This is Mote Marine Laboratory’s Women’s Giving Circle signature event designed to celebrate women and philanthropy in the pursuit of science. Event Chair Kimberly Carreiro shared that State Representative Holly Raschein of District 120 is guest speaker. Guests will also be treated to a special preview of WORTH New York’s Spring 2016 Collection. Fashion stylist Joni Bergs represents this fabulous luxury clothing line locally. WORTH New York is also the title sponsor and will be giving away ten $500 gift certificates at the event. I can’t wait for this one! Brenda and Geoffrey Michel, owners of The Met Sarasota on St. Armands, are two amazing people who successfully juggle personal, professional and volunteer work, while raising two teenagers, spearheading some of the most anticipated events in town, and overseeing all aspects of their luxury fashion house, day spa and salon. They are once again involved this social season with several high profile events. The Met is fashion sponsor for the sold-out Selby Garden’s Orchid Ball: Gowns in the Garden on February 13th, chaired by Liebe Gamble, Rochelle Nigri and Kara Saunders. Brenda and Geoffrey will dazzle the crowd with a special selection of Marchesa Notte, Sachin & Babi Noir and Zac Posen – perfect choices for the “Gown in the Garden” theme. If you haven’t yet picked
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your gown for the Orchid Ball, I am sure The Met will have something spectacular for you to stand out at the season’s number one garden party. Just a week later on Friday February 18, Brenda and Geoffrey will be at it again when The Met hosts a Going for the Gold Launch Party for their clients and for Sarasota YMCA contributors to kick off the celebrations that will culminate with the 25th Anniversary of the Going for the Gold Gala on Saturday, May 7, which is also Kentucky Derby day. Check out The Met’s derby-themed window display and if you shop there on February 18th, 20 percent of all store sales on that day will go directly to the Sarasota YMCA. Co-chairs Merrill Bonder, Dan Dannheisser, Mitchell Epstein and Mike Hagan are following through with the derby theme at the May 7 big gala event with multiscreen broadcasting of the 142nd Kentucky Derby! What fun! You won’t want to miss that! And if that’s not enough, Brenda, Geoffrey at The Met team will once again produce a dazzling fashion show on the gorgeous bay front grounds of the historic Charles Ringling Mansion at New College of Florida for Pique Nique Sur la Baie on March 11. This annual champagne and chapeau celebration, which benefits the Jane Bancroft Cook Library Association, is one of the loveliest events in town. Honorary Chair is New College Board of Trustee and avid community supporter Audrey Coleman. Can’t wait for The Met’s fashion show, which is always a stunner! People are still talking about The Met’s fashion show at Wine, Women & Shoes, which just may be the entertainment highlight of the season. If you’ve never donned your chapeau and attended Pique Nique, I suggest you get your ticket now before they are gone. After this one, I think Brenda and Geoffrey Michel will need a much-deserved vacation at the end of season as well as a big thank you from the community. Another college library also boasts an incredible fundraising event. According to its mission statement, “The Ringling College Library Association (RCLA) is a local nonprofit dedicated to the ongoing development of the Verman Kimbrough Memorial Library at The Ringling College of Art and Design and acts as a catalyst for educational growth of students, faculty, and the community.” Every year, the Association hosts the Ringling Town Hall Lecture Series, which has raised over $8 million in support of RCLA. There are so many individuals who have helped this lecture series grow in influence and importance. Our own Debbi Benedict, Jay Logan, Kathleen Weiner, Dan Accredited by the The Joint Commission # 519604 AHCA License # 299993941
Hoffe and now Nancy Morgan - to name just a few - have all given two years of their life to plan and then run the series as Town Hall chairs. I firmly believe this is one of the best tickets in town. Every year’s lineup of speakers is highly anticipated. Best selling novelist Amy Tan was featured
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at the kick-off Platinum Dinner. This year’s series speakers include former Disney Chairman and
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he is the most-watched and discussed speaker in the history of the prestigious TED Conference.
CEO Michael Eisner, politicos Jim Messina & Karl Rove, Good Morning America’s Robin Roberts and General David H. Petraeus. But it is Sir Ken Robinson, who is speaking on February 16, who I am particularly excited to hear. Robinson is considered an international expert on creativity and Sir Ken Robinson pushes people to rethink outdated assumptions about intelligence and creativity and to unleash the real potential of people and organizations. I wonder how his message will influence the individuals in our community to unleash their potential! Hmmm….just realized I haven’t written about any events for arts organizations. Everything so far has been about education and human services. My mind is wandering to a guest column in a December issue of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune written by my dear friend, Harry Leopold. In his column, Harry gave national statistics relating to the arts that I didn’t know. Did you know that arts-focused organizations only receive 4-5% of all charitable giving compared to education and human services? While hunger, housing, healthcare and education are all extremely vital, Harry connected the dots on how supporting the arts can influence giving in those areas as well. He pointed out that contributions to Sarasota’s arts’ organizations keeps them alive and of high quality. Without these contributions, ticket prices would be nearly double! Our area’s incredible arts organizations attract retirees and audiences who have the resources and the heart for charitable giving. It is these very same individuals that contribute twenty times more to nonprofit humanservices organizations than they do to the arts according to detailed studies. Harry poses this in
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his article: “Perhaps this is one reason our city is one of the most charitably inclined in the nation. This was demonstrated recently, when, with the support of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County and The Patterson Foundation, we were able to raise more than $6.7 million in a single day for those in our community most in need.” Harry Leopold is retired investment banker and an avid arts patron. His guest column appeared in the December 22 issue of the Herald-Tribune.
But let’s get back to guest speakers! Gulf Coast Community Foundation wants us to “Think Big” when it brings entrepreneur, fashion icon, and one of the stars of the hit reality TV show, Shark Tank, Daymond John, to town. John will be the guest speaker at the Foundation’s Better
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Together Luncheon being held February 15 at the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota. He will discuss creativity, innovation, and applying an entrepreneurial mindset within and outside of businesses and organizations of all sizes. I’m not sure if any tickets (only $60!) will be left by the time you read this, but you can check it out at www.gulfcoastCF.org. Two couples who both are extremely committed to animal welfare are chairing ARC’s Unconditional Love Gala taking place on February 20 at Michael’s on East - Dr. Allison Silver & Dr. Hardy Schwartz and Rona Wald & Eric Nashbar. If you don’t know, ARC stands for Animal Rescue Coalition. Of her commitment to ARC, Allison said, “I love the idea of ‘getting to the root of a problem’ to try to fix it. So many times in life we do things that are a short-term fix, because it is easier for us to figure out how to approach it and put it in motion. ARC fixes the animal population problem at its core. I love the logic behind it and the passionate people that lead the way.” Rona shared, “I support ARC because I am an animal lover! Eric and I adopted our puppy Bean at the ARC “Unconditional Love” gala last year. We hope to help bring awareness to support ARCs mission to make sure pets and their families are provided with safe and humane, low cost spay, neuter and vaccination services in our community.” There will be music by the Z
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How about doing some French cooking while you help grant a wish of a child in need? That’s just what you can do at Make-A-Wish’s 6th Annual Cooking for Wishes event on February 25 at Michaels on
Prepare, serve, entertain and clean up all
East. Event chairs Terri Klauber, Renee Phinney, and Fran LaCivita are
in one convenient place. Ideal for any
expecting another sensational event. With the demand for children’s wishes continuing to grow locally, supporting Cooking for Wishes promises to be fun and rewarding! Sarasota Ballet celebrates its 25th Anniversary Gala on February 29 at the FSU Performing Arts Center. Co-chairs Sydney Goldstein and Vivian
indoor or outdoor kitchen, it is changing the way people everywhere think about and use their kitchens. Available in
Kouvant, who share a love of ballet, are so excited about the gala, which
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is called “A Sterling Affair.” When asked about Sarasota Ballet and the
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Gala event, Vivian said, “It was such an honor for me to be asked to cochair with Sydney Goldstein for Sarasota Ballet’s 25th Anniversary Gala! This Ballet means everything to me. The kindness and love bestowed on everyone involved with this hard working organization is quite rare. I love this Ballet and everyone involved with all my heart and hope that one day soon they will deservedly get a place to call their own!” Vivian is referring to the fact that Sarasota Ballet performs at Asolo Rep’s theater, the Opera House, and at the Van Wezel, and have to schedule around what’s going on at these venues. These challenges and other reasons point to the need for a new building for Sarasota Ballet. Sydney Goldstein shared, “Sarasota Ballet has been my passion for at least fourteen years. This being a very exciting 25th anniversary year, I am thrilled to once again chair this gala. The evening will be beautiful and I wouldn’t miss the special honor of putting together this event! I guarantee everyone will enjoy our ‘Sterling Affair’.” Corporate sponsor Diamond Vault will be presenting a very special custom creation for this year’s gala. There is a fabulous event called Evening of Excellence, now in its 21st year, taking place on February 26 at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota.
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The event benefits more than 40,000 public school students through the work of the Education Foundation of Sarasota County. If you want to see talent, the original art on display by area high school students is quite special. The art is sold the night of the event during a spirited auction and it is always an exciting and fun atmosphere. I promise you would be proud to showcase any of these pieces in your home. Call the Education Foundation at 941.927.3034 if you want to know more. One of my favorite organizations, JFCS, presents its 12th Annual Celebrity Chefs Food & Wine Tasting and Golf Challenge on March 22 at The Resort at Longboat Key. New for this event is a Tennis Challenge! This event is one of the most fun and relaxed happenings on the social calendar. Play golf or tennis in the day then continue the fun under a humungous tent with 600 other people as you sample delicious dishes from over 25 area restaurants, enjoy wine and a martini bar, and dance to the sounds of a Reggae band. A fabulous silent auction will help JFCS support youth, seniors, caregivers, and Veterans in our community toward self-sufficiency. Event chair is Barbara Najmy. Title sponsors are Benderson Development and SunTrust. Get your foursome or tennis spot reserved as soon as you can by calling JFCS at 941.366.2224, ext 142. Our community is full of some amazing individuals and happenings. The passion, time and personal commitment by many is incredibly impressive. Do you know of a standout person, company, event or organization that makes our area thrive? I’d love to hear your “Buzz”. Send me your thoughts at SJ@TheEconomicBuzz.com Suzette Jones is CEO and Founder of The Economic Buzz, a company focused on economic development and innovation. (theeconomicbuzz.com | sj@theeconomicbuzz.com)
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Theater Performances:
Chess
February 11-28
Yank! - The Musical February 18-March 6 Also Showing:
Lip-Schtick – February 24 A Neil Diamond Tribute – February 5 Terry Lee Goffee, The Worlds Greatest Johnny Cash Experience – February 26-27
Tickets on sale now! $26-$36
Box Office: 941-748-5875 108
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ManateePerformingAr tsCenter.com
Literary Scene
By Ryan G. Van Cleave
FAST: 4 Principles Every Business Needs to Achieve Success and Drive Results Florida resident Gordon Tredgold is called “The Leader’s Leader,” and this book shows exactly why. The title comes from the following formula: Focus + Accountability + Simplicity + Transparency = Success Tredgold says that people ask him all the time which part of FAST is most important? Which should I start with? “It’s always F,” he explains. “F is the first letter of FAST and if you’re focused on the wrong thing, then it doesn’t matter how well you do the job. You’re going to fail. So make sure your focus is right before you start to work on the other components.” Tredgold’s clear, clean writing is designed to be actionable and impactful. Here’s an example from Chapter 8: Ten Ways to Immediately Simplify Your Business. “2 — Prioritize. A to-do list is basically a wish list. Scratch it off. Instead, create an MIT (Most Important Tasks) list. Set a maximum of THREE things you want to accomplish each day. Decide that if you meet these, your day will have been productive — and not merely busy. Simplicity is order.” While this book seems to be solely for the realm of business managers, it has truths and wisdom that speak to anyone in a leadership positon of any type. Best of all, he uses anecdotes and stories to illustrate points — too many business books are fact- and data-driven, which makes them boring. Tredgold’s blueprint here is easy to understand and simple to implement. Most importantly, it is sustainable. No silver bullet tricks here! Don’t be fooled by the size of this book. While one could easily devour this page count in a single sitting, the content merits reflection and serious consideration. Take it in small bites and you’ll see more opportunities for leadership improvement in your own life than you ever expected.
For more information about FAST (Next Century Publishing, paperback, 142 pages, $15.95) or the author, please visit www.gordontredgold.com.
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The Secret Language of Women
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I’m a sucker for good book titles (probably because so many of them are blah at best), and this book’s title is terrific. How do you NOT pick this book up and at least give it a chance? Thankfully, the book is strong as well. Debut novelist Nina Romano’s shares the story of Zhou Bin Lian, a physician’s daughter who deeply wants to learn her father’s trade. Set against China’s Boxer Rebellion (late 1800s), this is the love story between her and Giacomo Scimenti, an Italian sailor. Their passion is cooled by the rebellion as well as her dutiful promise to another — she was betrothed to another man since childhood. She’s not allowed to be a healer and she’s despised for not binding her feet. Lian ends up working in a cloisonné factory while in-laws raise the daughter she had with Giacomo. Will she ever regain her true love? Will she find empowerment and freedom? At what cost? If you like this sweeping, culturally rich book, the second and third in the series will continue that trend (set in mob-era Sicily and Depression-era Brooklyn, respectively). Romano is also a well-published poet, and the author of a fine short story collection, The Other Side of the Gates, so fans of her work have much they can turn to while waiting for the subsequent books in her Wayfarer Trilogy. One thing, though, is certain — the trajectory of Romano’s writing career is clearly climbing high.
For more information about The Secret Language of Women (Turner Publishing, paperback, 272 pages, $17.95) or the author, please visit www. ninaromano.com.
Isolation: A Faye Longchamp Mystery
Redbook has named the Faye Longchamp series one of the seven mystery series worth binging on, and I’m inclined to agree. Evans’ latest in this memorable archaeological mystery series features Faye striving to recover from a personal crisis. (Relatively minor spoiler here: she loses her baby daughter in a miscarriage.) While she grieves, her husband holds down the fort, cares for their son, Michael, and deals with his estranged father, Sly, who suddenly arrives for an awkward visit. Faye spends her days aimlessly digging holes on the coast of Florida’s Joyeuse Island until she runs across noxious fluids that merit a call to the EPA. Things get worse when a friend from the mainland gets murdered. Add in a genealogist who is determined to uncover information on Cally Stanton, a Civil War figure (and Faye’s great-great grandmother) who might have been a murderer. If you haven’t read the previous eight books in this series, don’t worry — the book works well enough on its own. It’s getting harder and harder to find quality fiction that isn’t inundated with undue violence, harsh language, or sex scenes. Yes, this book is pretty clean, but it’s well-written and interesting to boot. Give it — or any of Evans’ books — a shot and you’re likely to become a fan.
For more information about Isolation (Poisoned Pen Press, hardcover, 274 pages, $15.95), please visit www.maryannaevans.com
HEALTH
Anatomy of a Golf Swing By Dr. Trevor Born, MD
With today’s modern golf swing, there are numerous muscle groups and joints which need to be on the same page to best provide one with an effective, powerful stroke while minimizing the risk of injury. An often neglected part of the body with regards to many players’ swings is the hip joint and its surrounding structures.
Prevention Placing focus on properly preparing the hip joint to maintain appropriate flexibility Dr. Trevor Born, MD
will best ensure that it can withstand the forces seen with one’s golf swing. Basic
Sarasota Orthopedic Associates
stretching exercises for the hamstrings, hip flexors, and rotators are essential. The
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average PGA golfer has roughly 45° of hip internal rotation. Lacking internal rotation
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leads to increased extension of a golfer’s pelvis which can result in low back pain
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and decreased drive. In addition, recent studies have shown that golfers with strong hip musculature have lower handicaps and longer driving distances compared to those with weak hip muscles. Combined with safe core strengthening, these steps will help one produce the maximum power with their swing while reducing the risk of back and other joint injuries.
Causes Hip pain in golfers may be the result of minor strains, soft-tissue inflammation, such as bursitis, and even arthritis. The modern golf swing, with its requirement for large amounts of body rotation, can subject one’s body and hip joint to perhaps more than it can tolerate, rendering it vulnerable to injury. Labral tears, while perhaps more common in other sports, can also be a cause of hip pain in golfers. A stabilizing and supportive structure, the labrum can be damaged when subjected to increased pressure in a hip joint which lacks the necessary flexibility to withstand the forces seen with the modern golf swing. This may result in groin pain, clicking or locking sensations, discomfort when squatting to read a putt or pick up a ball, or even restricting one’s swing.
Treatment The first steps to take in treating hip pain associated with golf involve the usual conservative measures, including rest, ice, and over the counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications. If these fail to alleviate the discomfort, formal physical therapy with an experienced provider familiar with golf related injuries can often target the specific muscle imbalances and tightness which made one prone to such an issue in the first place. Injections, such as steroid and platelet-rich plasma (PRP), can also be useful for a variety of hip related pathologies. Lastly, when non-operative treatments fail, surgery can be considered. For labral tears, recent advances in hip arthroscopy have enabled surgeons to repair this important anatomic structure through minimally invasive techniques, and best preserve the hip joint for countless rounds of future golf.
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HEALTH
A Journey into Dementia: A Home Health Care Perspective By Bonti Burgess, CEO/Administrator, with special thanks to Cherie Smith, RN, DON
It starts with a couple of seemingly insignificant falls at the grocery store, insignificant because no one actually hits the ground. Then the big fall happens in the kitchen, caused by forgetting to turn the stove off, burning a hand, and impaired gait and balance. Along with the FX C2 Vertebra (just a fancy term for broken neck), rehabilitation and home care enter the picture and everything changes. Bonti Burgess
Anyone can go to alz.org to read about the Stages of Dementia: Early (Mild), Middle (Mod-
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erate), and Late (Severe). But to adequately prepare for what to expect in the progression of
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dementia in everyday life, you need talk to a home health agency that has worked with a
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patient through years of dementia.
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Perspective: A Home Care perspective on the stages of dementia, filled with compassion and humor (we all need that in our life, right?), is quite different than a spouse’s. We really know that dementia triggers falls, not the other way around. Falls result in injury and/or pain, but if you survive the rehab process, you must know you will be on a rollercoaster of Medicare certified Physical Therapy from here on. The point is to keep active and engaged, safely. Those that incorporate private duty home care into their lives into the early stages of dementia live life more fully for the simple reason that trained Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA’s) are there to assist and protect from any and all injury or medical hazards dementia can bring. CNA’s will monitor such things as glucose levels, blood pressure & the medication management of the spouse to make sure the dementia patient is actually getting what they should be. They will monitor appetite and activity levels, encourage fluids, do range of motion exercise and seek to provide social or stimulating activities. CNA’s will guard against skin infections and be on the look-out for behavior changes that may indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI) or need of medication change. The severe dementia stage is entered when mobility has significantly decreased to the point of being wheelchair bound or bed bound only, incontinence is complete, and the dementia patient begins experiencing increased irritability/anger and losing the ability to move hands or feet on command. This is typically the time frame when your doctor advises 24/7 home health or a nursing home as an alternative. If you are one of those spouses that insist “over my dead body” will he/she go to a nursing home then hiring a licensed and accredited private duty home health agency is your best option. CNA’s will provide indispensable individual attention. Along with meals, bathing, dressing, cleaning, and medical monitoring, they will provide reassurance, direction, and ultimately, comfort. Facts: SCOPE’s (Sarasota County Openly Plans for Excellence) 2014 Community Report tells us the total population of Sarasota County is 385,292, of whom 64,035 are age 65-74, 40,676 are age 75-84 and 21,104 are age 85 or older, for a total of 125,815 residents age 65 or older. U.S. Statistics state that one in eight people age 65 or older are living with some form of dementia. One in eight translates into 15,727 individuals living with dementia in Sarasota County. The numbers are mind numbing. If you or someone you know is suffering from dementia, please consider high quality private home care like we provide at Bright Day.
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HEALTH
Reclaim Your Vitality By Dr. John Monhollon
As we start a new year, many people make resolutions to go to the gym to get fit, but how about having more cocktails instead? Don’t get too excited! I am not speaking of the alcoholic variety, but cocktails that can change the way you feel. If this sounds like your ideal health strategy, all you need to do is get in the habit of going to the IV room for IV cocktails. We are fortunate that today we have access to alternative treatments not available to previous generations. Dr. John Monhollon
Since there are many great IV cocktails, how do you know which one is right for you?
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Are you feeling a slump since Thanksgiving dinner or has the holiday season left you
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feeling older and less jolly? Show some love to your heart, brain and liver by taking on
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a cocktail of phosphatidyl choline, known more widely by its brand name – Plaquex,
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a product I highly recommend to my patients for anti-aging. What is Plaquex? It is a preparation of phosphatidyl choline, a naturally occurring substance in our bodies. It makes up 70% of our cell membranes. Having more phosphatidyl choline can help reverse the signs of aging and revitalize some major organs. How can Plaquex help me? Just to name a few ways, Plaquex can help with Alzheimer’s, heart disease, peripheral vascular disease and fatty liver disease. Atherosclerosis or plaque on the walls of arteries is a heterogeneous mixture made up of multiple substances including hard calcified material and waxy cholesterol based material. We believe that Plaquex emulsifies and helps remove the waxy cholesterol based portion of the plaque. It also seems that Plaquex may prevent atherosclerosis by trapping oxidized LDL cholesterol and therefore preventing it from damaging the arterial wall. Less plaque in the arteries translates into lower stroke and heart attack risk. There is another brain benefit of Plaquex in addition to increased blood flow. Phosphatidlyl choline is a precursor to acetylcholine, which is one of the principle neurotransmitters that the brain uses for thinking. At least in theory, making the raw material phosphatidyl choline readily available to the brain should promote a plentiful supply of the thinking chemical. Fatty liver disease is a common condition in which fat infiltrates healthy liver tissue, compromising its function. Almost half of middle age adults in America have this condition and it is almost entirely as a result of poor eating habits that have become the cultural norm. Switching to the natural food that was designed to be human fuel is the primary treatment for a fatty liver. Phosphatidyl choline is the IV treatment of choice. I encourage my patients to do both. So if the holiday season has taken its toll on you or if you’re feeling weary for other reasons, there is help. This year make a New Year’s Resolution to try a different kind of cocktail – Plaquex.
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REWIND
A LOOK BACK THROUGH SCENE’S ARCHIVES
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1970
Since opening its doors in 1962, the Woman’s Exchange, from sales of its amazing and affordably priced treasures, has awarded nearly $8 million in grants & scholarships. They are an unsung hero in our community supporting local arts and making a difference in the lives of many. Featured in the top right photo is Mrs. Ward Patton, wife of the founder of Scene Magazine.
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