January 2025 by SARASOTA SCENE Magazine

HERE COMES the

Sun +

GEORGE HARRISON: A GARDENER'S LIFE

COMES TO SELBY GARDENS

Strengthening Our Healthcare SARASOTA MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION

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Mindful Drinking BETTER CHOICES=A BETTER YOU

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+ SARASOTA OPERA WINTER FESTIVAL • SPOTLIGHT ON SPARCC AROUND TOWN: NATURE LOVER JON THAXTON

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PROGRAM FOUR | JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 3, 2025 FSU CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

PROGRAM SPONSOR

Renato Paroni’s Rococo Variations Paul Taylor’s Brandenburgs Gemma Bond’s World Premiere

941.359.0099 | SarasotaBallet.org Ricardo Graziano, Katelyn May, Danielle Brown, and Ellen Overstreet in Paul Taylor’s Brandenburgs | Photo Frank Atura

THE JEAN & ALFRED GOLDSTEIN EXHIBITION SERIES PRESENTING SEASON SPONSORS Teri A Hansen • Marianne and Bill McComb • Keith Monda and Veronica Brady Drs. Joel Morganroth and Gail Morrison Morganroth • Jeannie Russell • Martin and Zelia Trueb

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contents•features

56 69

A PHILANTHROPIC PARTNER WITH HEART SARASOTA MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION By Kaileia Suvannamaccha

On the Cover

By Hunter Hageman

by Terry O’Neill/Iconic Images,

a gardener’s life at selby gardens.

An Immersive Celebration at Selby Botanical Gardens

George Harrison at Friar Park, 1975, promoting george harrison:

george harrison: a gardener’s life

mindful drinking Tips & Recipes for Clean Drinking in the New Year By Jacqueline Miller

sarasota opera’s winter festival Enter a Different World By Scott Ferguson

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

A life-changing destination is here. THE CORNELL BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PAVILION The Cornell Pavilion is a safe, welcoming place for those struggling with mental health issues. With evidence-based programs and services, and the most experienced clinicians, lives are transformed, smiles return and our community grows stronger.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT IS CRITICAL TO ITS SUCCESS Only 17% of SMH’s behavioral health costs are reimbursed. Learn how you can make an impact, call 941.917.1286 or visit smhf.org.

Learn more.

contents•departments

106

86 • socialscene • 18 THE LIST

• p h i lanthro p y • 44 Renee & Walter eppard

January Events Calendar

and Tidewell Foundation

party pics

By Tom Reese

36 All Star Twinkle Ball 38 The Florida Center Wonder Gala 40 Selby Lights In Bloom Preview Night 41 BGCSDC Champions for Children 42 Forty Carrots Wine, Women & Shoes 90 Sarasota Opera Moonlight & Melodies

50 around town Jon Thaxton By Tom Reese

80 spotlight SPARCC: 45 Years of Empowering

93 SPARCCle: A Starry Night Soiree gala

Survivors and Helping Rebuild Futures

94 Women in Philanthropy

By Reno Gomez

104 the gentle art of caregiving Etiquette for Compassionate Care By Nicci Lieberman

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

96 BEST SEATS Performing Arts Calendar

102 art scene Visual Arts Calendar

• i ns i der •

92 WBTT Motown Christmas Reception

• i nhealth •

• a r t s + c u lt u r e •

86 ed matters Getting a Head Start with Children First By Reno Gomez

106 meet the performer Hak Soo Kim

Be Informed Be Entertained Be SCENE scenesarasota.com

Luxury Retirement Living On Sarasota Bay Sarasota Bay Club boasts an unrivaled list of first-class amenities and services, including a broad array of healthcare choices, in an exclusive residential resort setting overlooking the sparkling waters of Sarasota Bay. Right where you want to be.

Photo: Jennifer Joy Walker

To experience Sarasota Bay Club for yourself, schedule a personal sales appointment and private showing of our available luxury residences.

Call Mimi Nowak or Dana Moe (941) 256-2618 1301 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota | SarasotaBayClub.com

“I Really Like Everything About The Place!” Nancy K. Schlossberg Author, Speaker, Motivator, Life Transition Guru, and SBC Resident

f r o m t h e • p u bl i s h e r s I put my late year 2024 health scare behind me, I can’t help but smile when I read one of the feature articles in this, our January 2025 A New Year, A New You issue. The article highlights Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation (SMHF), which raises funds to provide critical resources to Sarasota Memorial Hospital (SMH) and support its delivery of world-class care. And that is exactly what I received from the time I was taken by ambulance to SMH to the moment I walked out several days later feeling much more like John Knowles! During my hospital stay at SMH, I always felt like I was receiving the best care which made me relax and heal. While lying there, my mind wandered to the work of Sarasota Memorial Foundation and the generous donors who change people’s lives. The generosity of our community to SMHF is vital to the success of SMH, which ranks in the top 1% in many categories—quite unusual for a community hospital. Because it is a Magnet hospital for nursing, SMH is in the top percent for nursing care, and the nurses are exceptional. I had great ones! The hospital has received many top accolades from several rating organizations—all of which would not be possible without the help of the Foundation and the gifts from its many donors. I have no doubt the selection of Sarasota County for new residents is in part because of our top-notch hospital system! So please, I encourage you to read the article in this issue, learn more about your hospital and the foundation, and make a gift no matter how big or small. For me, when it comes to healing, being in nature is my happy place. I love cycling and paddleboarding. I understand and relate to anyone who loves and feels “one with nature.” It is a calming and peaceful place of true healing. Our cover story is in keeping with the calm and peace of nature. I can’t wait for the new exhibition at Selby Gardens called George Harrison: A Gardener’s Life, which opens February 9 and runs through June 29. The “Quiet Beatle,” Harrison spent a good portion of his life revitalizing the grounds of his estate at Friar Park in Hemsley-on-Thames, England. Harrison restored overgrown gardens, designed landscapes, and created tranquil spaces reflecting his love for peace and harmony. The Selby exhibition, a journey into a heart of a man who found purpose in the soil, will feature intricate garden vignettes, a soundtrack of his music, and delectable offerings to delight all the senses. This month, we go Around Town with Jon Thaxton, a fifth generation Sarasotan, who hunted and fished from the time he was a lad, on what was then an area in South Sarasota full of wildlife and game. Jon is an environmental activist whose love of nature has been present throughout his life. As our Around Town opener states, “If he is not raising awareness for the betterment of our region, you can find him outdoors enjoying life as it was meant to be lived.” In our monthly philanthropy article, we proudly feature Renee and Walter Eppard, who are passionately involved in Tidewell Hospice and who are donors to Tidewell

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

H JOHN KNOWLES, PUBLISHER john@scenesarasota.com

Celebrating 52 Years of Fashions You Love

SIESTA KEY • 941.349.6644 | ST. ARMANDS • 941.388.5239

INSIGHTS & 2024 INSPIRATIONS 2025 RUTH REICHL

Be Safer, Smarter, and More Connected

JANUARY 8

7PM • The Ora • Sarasota

Reichl, an American food writer and editor will talk about “Eating Our Words,” sharing personal reflections on her years as food critic for The New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, and editor of Gourmet magazine. She’s written several memoirs, two novels, and has won six James Beard Foundation Awards including the James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award. She is recognized as one of the most discerning voices in the food world.

Foundation, which streamlines philanthropy efforts for Tidewell Hospice. They are inspiring people and we are blessed to have them as well as the world-class services of Tidewell in our community. For many of us, dry January is a real thing! Many people take the challenge to abstain from alcohol for the month after the overindulgence of the holidays. It’s a chance to recharge, revive and reset. I am happy to report there is a positive trend called “mindful drinking” that is happening among many of us, especially the younger generation. We are becoming more conscious about what we put in our bodies, and drinking less alcohol and cleaner cocktails is becoming a way of life for many of us. Locally, there is a women-owned business (Beauty Booze) that is crafting spirits made with the powerful antioxidants of the goji berry. The distillery is right here in our town! Kris Ravenscroft is the brains behind it, and you can read much more in this issue while also getting some “better for you” cocktail recipes.

EXCLUSIVE MAGAZINE SPONSOR:

Tutu sculpture, 2018

tutu dress coated in salt crystals; 65 x 90 x 90 cm

Also in this issue, we feature the important work of Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC), which plays a pivotal role in healing and empowering victims in Sarasota and Desoto counties. SPARCC, with a 24-hour crisis hotline, provides shelter, counseling, in-person support in hospitals and courtrooms, legal services, and support groups at no cost to the victim. Please read out Spotlight article to learn more and ways you can help.

SIGALIT LANDAU RICHARD & ELLEN SANDOR

ISRAELI ARTS & CULTURE PRIZE

FEBRUARY 5

2PM • The Ora • Sarasota

FEBRUARY 27

7PM • Hyatt Regency • Sarasota

Dara Horn, American novelist and author of the nonfiction essay collection People Love Dead Jews, Reports from a Haunted Present, discusses how Jewish history is exploited to flatter the living. Her book has been named a New York Times Notable Book of the Year and a Wall Street Journal, Chicago Public Library, Publishers Weekly, and Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year.

DARA HORN

Israeli multidisciplinary artist, Sigalit Landau shares insight on her artistic journey and unique processes. Her ongoing Dead Sea art project, a magnum opus, is comprised of objects cultivated with salt, like an oyster farm. Tutu sculpture, 2018, is one of her most iconic works.

Here’s to a happy and healthy 2025!

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

Sca

Or scan the code!

In our Education Matters article, please read “Getting a Head Start with Children First”, the exclusive Sarasota County provider of Early Head Start and Head Start services. Children First focuses on education, nutrition, and health and wellness, ensuring children have access to opportunities, closing the gaps of poverty and setting them on a better path for success. I encourage you to learn more about this important non-profit organization and get involved. Now that I am feeling well again, I look forward to seeing you around town either while I am out enjoying nature, or at the many important non-profit fundraisers happening in the next months. First up for me—The Hospital Gala! How fitting!

For tickets or more info: JFEDSRQ.org/events

f r o m t h e • p u bl i s h e r

me!

H JOHN KNOWLES, PUBLISHER john@scenesarasota.com

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SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

Sharon Castellano Call/Text 203.984.7577 | sharon@scenesarasota.com Contributing Graphic Designer Laura Guzman Contributing Writers Scott Ferguson Reno Gomez Hunter Hageman Julie Milton Tom Reese Kaileia Suvannamaccha Contributing & Social Photographer Nancy Guth Contributing Photographers Harry Sayer Lori Sax Janet Combs Maggie Martinez 1834 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.365.1119 | Fax: 941.954.5067 | scenesarasota.com Subscribe at scenesarasota.com/magazine/shop H John Knowles LLC, dba SCENE Magazine publishes 12 issues a year. Address editorial, advertising and circulation correspondence to the above address. Sufficient return postage and self–addressed, stamped envelope must accompany all manuscripts, artwork and photographs submitted if they are to be returned or acknowledged. Publisher assumes no responsibility for care of return of unsolicited materials. Subscription price: $12.95 per year, $19.95 for two years. All contents copyrighted. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.

ON VIEW NOW – APRIL 13, 2025

JOE FIG

CONTEMPLATING VERMEER

Experience the legacy of Dutch master Johannes Vermeer through a fresh new lens. Sixteen small-scale paintings celebrate an exhibition of a lifetime–The Rijksmuseum’s showcase of 28 of the 35 known paintings by Vermeer–and the modern-day art lovers who were there, in person, to witness it all. Joe Fig (American, born 1968). Vermeer: Woman Holding a Balance / Rijksmuseum, 2023. Oil on linen mounted on MDF board, 13 ½ x 14 ½ in. Courtesy of the artist.

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DISCOVER SARASOTA TOURS Hop aboard the art crawl trolley, learn about Amish and Mennonite cultures, explore the circus secrets of Venice, enjoy a sightseeing expedition, or take a historical tour of Sarasota led by one of its founding women portrayed by actress Kathryn Chesley. Discover Sarasota Tours | discoversarasotatours.com

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Home Care vs. Home HEALTH Care

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“As a registered nurse practitioner, geriatric nurse care manager, aging brain health expert and educator, I founded Youthful Aging over 25 years ago to offer cutting-edge clinical proficiency backed by compassionate and highly trained caregivers. We follow Guided Care, evidencebased guidelines developed by John Hopkins University, for managing chronic conditions and have adopted Guided Care’s effective principles that are designed to improve the quality of life and care of patients by working closely with the patient, their family, and the primary care physician.”

—Nicci Lieberman, President

• scenesponsored • ja n ua ry 3 s m h f h o s p i ta l ga l a Don’t miss the premiere event of the season! The Hospital Gala has raised over $8.5 million to help SMH bring world-class healthcare to our community. Sponsorship opportunities are available. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota | smhf.org

Know the Difference If you need a senior companion, there are many home care agencies to fill your need. If you need home health care for a loved one, call the health care professionals at Youthful Aging!

ja n ua ry 6 , 1 3 , 2 0 , 2 7 MOTE-IVATIONAL MONDAYS Every January, Mote hosts its Science Lecture Series featuring Mote scientists who share their world-class research on Monday evenings. This year’s lecturers include John Langan, Dr. Dana Wetzel, Kevin Claridge and Dr. Dom Gallery, and Dr. Sara Williams Florida Studio Theatre | mote.org

ja n ua ry 1 0 - 1 2 HOME HEALTH CARE Call to Learn More

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SARASOTA SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL Get ready to step outside and enjoy a weekend filled with great food and fantastic live music. In addition, browse through a marketplace filled with arts and crafts. Sarasota Fairgrounds | paragonfestivals.com

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ja n ua ry 1 1 LIGHTHOUSE VISION LOSS EDUCATION CENTER BRILLIANCE BALL Enjoy craft cocktails, a fabulous dinner and dancing as you celebrate the Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center’s 40th anniversary. Learn about how the organization changes the lives of their vision-impaired clients and how you can help. Lido Beach Resort | lighthouseeducationcenter.org THE PERLMAN MUSIC PROGRAM CELEBRATION CONCERT & DINNER Join PMP for an exciting evening of celebration with Toby and Itzhak Perlman, PMP students, faculty, and staff. Enjoy fine wines and dining with entertainment by the fabulous Pearltones. Michael’s On East | perlmanmusicprogramsuncoast.org SARASOTA ANIME-FEST An anime collector’s dream featuring anime, manga and pop-culture items for sale as well as a roster of anime industry professionals and fandomrelated celebrities. Sarasota Municipal Auditorium | sarasotaanimefest.com

Perfect for those times when you don’t want or have time to cook but still crave something delicious. Morton’s kitchen offers an amazing array of gourmet entrees and comfort foods, all prepared from scratch and packaged to go. Save time, money and effort while savoring the city’s best take-out, hands down. Don’t miss our huge selection of freshly made salads too!

Serving the Sarasota area for over 50 years Historic Southside Village 1924 South Osprey Ave. Sarasota ∙ (941) 955-9856 MortonsMarket.com JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

Great Escapes Popular tunes, light classics, and conductor commentary blend with entertaining themes.

G R E AT E S C A P E S 3

TV Tunes and Treasures We all know the joy of hearing the theme from our favorite TV show begin as we happily sit down for another adventure with our favorite characters. The music sets the scene for our escape into other worlds and other lives.

NATE SEMAN, Principal tuba

JAN 15-19 FEB 12-16

GREAT ESCAPES 3:

TV TUNES AND TREASURES

GREAT ESCAPES 4:

CRAZY FOR YOU

MAR 12-16 MAY 7-10

GREAT ESCAPES 5:

A MUSICAL COMEDY

GREAT ESCAPES 6:

G.O.A.T.s (Greatest of All Time)

Browse our other concerts at SarasotaOrchestra.org

SarasotaOrchestra.org | Box Office: 941-953-3434 22

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

MEDIA SPONSOR FOR GREAT ESCAPES SERIES: MEDIA SPONSOR FOR GREAT ESCAPES SERIES:

TOLAND SAND

“INFINITE COBALT”

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CHASENGALLERIES.COM (941) 955 0155 99 SOUTH PINEAPPLE AVENUE, SARASOTA 1830 SOUTH OSPREY AVENUE, STE 102, SARASOTA

RCLA TOWN HALL WITH RON HOWARD Ron Howard is one of Hollywood’s most celebrated and prolific filmmakers. Tickets will only be available in the form of a package that includes the other four speakers in the series. The Van Wezel | rclaassociation.org

ja n ua ry 1 7 SUNSHINE FROM DARKNESS INSPIRING HOPE DINNER This year’s Inspiring Hope Dinner will enhance the importance of “Creating a Spark” in life. Join Sunshine From Darkness for an evening of aspiration, connection, and encouragement. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota | sunshinefromdarkness.org

Friday, February 7, 2025 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM SCF Bradenton Campus

Join us for an exclusive cocktail chic celebration marking the beginning of President Tommy Gregory’s leadership and a new era for the State College of Florida. This unforgettable evening will feature chef-inspired dinner options, live music by the SCF Jazz Combo and Trevor Bystrom Band, and unique touches that highlight SCF’s growth and its impact in our community.

Purchase President Your Ticket Tommy Today! Gregory, J.D.

Individual Tickets – $250 Table of 8 –$2,000 Sponsorship & Underwriter Opportunities Available

Please Scan the QR Codes for Ticket & Sponsorship Information

JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

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PLEXR® PLASMA

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Dr. Sam Uzabel of Warm Sands Wellness is the ONLY PHYSICIAN IN SARASOTA offering this state-of-the-art technology.

SHARKTOBERFEST Sharktoberfest guests will experience Mote Aquarium as they never have before, enjoying live entertainment, food stations, merchandise vendors and special experiences provided by Mote’s Education department. Postponed from October. Mote Aquarium | mote.org

ja n ua ry 1 9

Begin your transformation today. Call for your free consultation or visit our website for secure online booking! 941-202-4051 • 5537 Marquesas Circle, Sarasota WarmSandsWellness.com 24

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EMBRACING OUR DIFFERENCES GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION Celebrate the centerpiece of Embracing Our Differences’ juried, outdoor exhibition featuring 50 works of art and quotations created by artists, writers, and students from around the world. Bayfront Park | embracingourdifferences.org

S A R A S OTA O P ER A G A L A HONORING LES & CAROL BRUALDI FRIDAY, JANUARY 31 • RECEPTION AT 6 PM • THE RITZ-CARLTON

Journey to Seville in this season’s opening Gala! Experience Spain’s beauty, culture, cuisine, and flamenco music at this black-tie affair. Celebrate the Sarasota Youth Opera’s 40th year and our community’s support for the 2025 Winter Opera Festival and music education programs. All event proceeds will be directed to these initiatives.

(941) 366-8450, EXT 813 • SARASOTAOPERA.ORG Sarasota Opera House • 61 N. Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota, FL

CALLING ALL CAC SUPERHEROES!

Under the CAC Big Top at Nathan Benderson Park’s Regatta Island

2025 26

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

Proceeds of our 2025 Circus Arts Gala help underwrite student scholarships, training fees and performance costs. For Sponsorships, Tables, and Tickets: 941.355.9335 • CircusArts.org/Gala

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ja n ua ry 2 1 - 2 7 FORKS & CORKS FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL Forks & Corks is an engaging showcase of the enormous talents of our area’s locallyowned restaurants, highlighted by an esteemed cast of visiting winery owners and winemakers. Various locations in Sarasota (check website for schedule of events) eatlikealocal.com

AWARDING MORE THAN $9 MILLION IN GRANTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

It doesn’t need to be NEW to be

AWESOME!

Est. 1962

Find your joy Sarasota’s #1 consignment shop  The joy of shopping  The joy of giving  The joy of recycling  The joy of supporting students and the arts in our community

ja n ua ry 2 2 UNLEASH THE DRAGONS DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL & LEADERSHIP CAMP Show your support for breast cancer and all cancer survivors at this fun event. Featuring keynote speaker Dr. Don McKenzie. Nathan Benderson Park | nathanbendersonpark.org

THANKS TO YOU...

This purchase helped award $500,000 in grants and scholarships during our 2023-2024 Fiscal year.

539 S. ORANGE | 941-955-7859 | OPEN MON-FRI 9-4 & SAT 10-4 | www.sarasotawex.com JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

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ja n ua ry 2 5 - 2 6 ST ARMANDS ART FESTIVAL The two day St Armands Art Festival brings together more than 150 artists, each with their own tent, awning or booth space around St Armands Circle Park’s walkways. St. Armands Circle | escape-to-sarasota.com

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Luxury Living • 80 Apartments • Three Meals Per Day Includes Utilities, Housekeeping, Transportation, 24-Hour Care Team Recreational Activities • Onsite Therapy • Salon 6: Barber Services

Sarasota’s Boutique Senior Community 5601 N Honore Ave, Sarasota, FL 34243 Call us today! (941) 355-0303 • www.DeSotoPalms.com ALF# 11835

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

SCRAMBLE FOR SPARCC Join SPARCC, as a player or a sponsor, for a fun day of golf for a great cause. Laurel Oak Country Club | sparcc.net

Hosted by Executive Director

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 19

2 0 2 5

LEAD SPONSOR

Virginia Shearer An immersive, mysterious, and wickedly-fun event featuring cocktails, dinner, artists, and performers flowing throughout each of the Museum’s spaces – where you can interact, activate, and “be the art.”

SUPPORTING SPONSOR

MEDIA SPONSOR

Sarasota Art Museum 1001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

sarasotaartmuseum.org/unconventionalevening JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

flavors

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E X P LO R E A S E A O F — WITH OUR — NEW SEASONAL SPECIALS • SOCIAL HOUR • BRUNCH MENT ION TH AD AN IS DR FRE ECEIVE A

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V ISIT US AT O N E O F O UR S A R AS OTA LO CAT I ONS 3 9 7 1 S TAMIAMI TRL • 9 4 1 .9 2 4 .9 0 9 0 | 8 1 0 1 CO O PE R CR EEK BLV D • 941. 360. 3171 O R O N L IN E AT BO N E F I S H G R I L L .C O M *PRICE, PRODUCT AND PARTICIPATION MAY VARY. MAXIMUM ONE PER TABLE. AVAILABLE FOR DINE-IN ONLY. NO CASH VALUE. ONLY VALID AT SARASOTA BONEFISH LOCATIONS WITH THE PURCHASE OF AN ENTREE THROUGH 5/21/2025.

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11/14/24 12:29 PM

SARASOTA ORCHESTRA MASTERWORKS 4 DINNER FEATURING GIANCARLO GUERERRO Join the Sarasota Orchestra for a delicious dinner and the opportunity to meet the Music Director Designate, Giancarlo Guererro and conductors. Each dinner features a short musical performance followed by a moderated conversation with the featured conductor. Art Ovation Hotel | sarasotaorchestra.org

ja n ua ry 3 1 – F e b 2

4420 South Tamiami Trail Sarasota, Fl 941.260.8905

www. shellysgiftandchristmasboutique .com Monday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm 30

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

5TH ANNUAL ENGLEWOOD SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL Delicious foods, live music and shopping through a marketplace of arts, crafts and fine products. Dearborn Street Plaza | paragonfestivals.com

GALA ANNUAL

IN THE

TROPICS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2025 | 6:30 – 11:30 PM |

THE ST. REGIS LONGBOAT KEY 1601 GULF OF MEXICO DRIVE Spend an elegant evening in the lush ambiance of the brand new St. Regis Hotel on Longboat Key to celebrate Asolo Rep’s annual gala, the first major non-profit event hosted on the property. Soak up the vibrance of the tropics and celebrate over dinner, drinks, and dancing—surely a night to remember! Lead Sponsor

The funds raised from the Gala play a vital role in sustaining the talented artists and educators who help make Asolo Rep’s 2024-2025 season possible.

asolorep.org/annualgala JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE 31

JASON.COOPER@CBREALTY.COM

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S a r a s o ta O p e r a Ga l a : A Night in Seville

Take a special journey to Seville in this season’s opening Gala! Be immersed in Spain’s beauty, culture, and vibe with all the splendor of the region’s cuisine, wine, and flamenco music.

OPER PER 32

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941.599.0044 The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota | sarasotaopera.org JASON.COOPER@CBREALTY.COM

One of the finest venues for opera in the United States.

VICTOR DeRENZI, Artistic Director RICHARD RUSSELL, General Director

~ Musical America

2025 WINTER OPERA FESTIVAL THE BARBER CAVALLERIA OF SEVILLE RUSTICANA Pietro Mascagni

Gioachino Rossini Feb. 22 – March 29, 2025

AND

PAGLIACCI

Ruggero Leoncavallo Feb. 15 – March 29, 2025

THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart March 8 – 28, 2025

STIFFELIO Giuseppe Verdi March 15 – 30, 2025

All performances in the original language with simultaneous translations above the stage.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

(941) 328-1300 • SARASOTAOPERA.ORG Sarasota Opera House 61 N. Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

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upcoming in f e b r ua ry 1 CATHOLIC CHARITIES BALL

March 7, 2025

a ierEvent Premat the R itz-

asota r a S , n o t l Car

BRIGHTEN LIVES IN OUR COMMUNITY

Reserve Your Seat Today

TidewellFoundation.org/SL16! Proceeds benefit Tidewell Foundation’s mission to brighten lives in our community

THANK YOU SPONSORS Exclusive Signature Sponsor

Join Catholic Charities for an elegant evening to celebrate their mission to serve all of those in need who come for help, regardless of race or religion. The St. Regis Resort, Longboat Key | catholiccharitiesdov.org

7 SCF AVENUES TO THE FUTURE INAUGURATION DINNER A commemorative dinner to celebrate the inauguration of president Tommy Gregory, J.D. SCF Gymnasium | scf.edu

8 ORCHID BALL This elegant evening celebrates the 2025 Jean & Alfred Goldstein exhibition throughout the grounds of Selby Gardens’ Downtown Sarasota campus. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Campus | selby.org

Judith Berlow & Family

16 The Martella Family Foundation

THE SARASOTA BALLET GALA This extraordinary evening will feature a new atmosphere of specially curated performances,

Fergeson Skipper Susan and David Macrae Ian Black Real Estate Senator John and Leadership Simplified TF-030725-1130-adseasons Michelle McKay TF-030725-1130scene0125

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

Jan Miller Observer Media Group Cindy and Tom Stuhley

along with a dazzling celebration of fine dining and dancing. The Ora | sarasotaballet.org

PROTECTING THE LAND YOU LOVE

learn more and join us at

bigwaterslandtrust.org

JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

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Graci McGillicuddy

partypics ALL STAR CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION TWINKLE BALL On November 16 more than 300 guests attended the Twinkle Ball, an evening of glamour and giving at Michael’s On East. This annual event supports the All Star Children’s Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming foster care through trauma-focused therapies and innovative programs. Photos by Nancy Guth.

Norma & Al Cohen

Robert & Shannon Warren

Dan & Debbie Dannheisser

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DR. ALISSA SHULMAN Artistry. Skill. Compassion.

How Do I Find a Good Plastic Surgeon? Verify advanced experience after residency. Even carefully planned surgeries can experience a problem. Look for a surgeon who can think on his/her feet—one whose’s skill developed by handling the unexpected. A surgeon with cancer reconstruction or trauma/ ER experience is a good example, since it requires the surgeon to customize every repair under a time restraint. These situations build the timely and creative plastic surgery skills you deserve.

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THE FLORIDA CENTER FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD WONDER GALA Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner, lively music, and an exciting auction, all while connecting with others who share their passion. The Wonder Gala provides an incredible opportunity to support early childhood education while enjoying an elegant night out. Photos by Janet Combs.

Sandy Humenik & Dr. Jill Morris

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One of Dr. Shulman’s many specialties is fat grafting, a procedure she describes as similar to sculpting clay. It involves harvesting fat from one area of the body, and then injecting it into the desired area. “If you carefully process the fat and put it in a place where Kristie Skoglund & Tom Edwards it has a good blood supply, it really does well,” she said. “I like a nice, healthy patient that gives me tissue to work with.”

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SELBY LIGHTS IN BLOOM VIP PREVIEW NIGHT Lights in Bloom® featured more than two million lights illuminating the gardens and walkways of Selby’s Downtown Sarasota campus. Guests got to preview the event and get a sneak peek at this award winning holiday light show. Photos by Janet Combs.

Linda Carson

Gail Morrison Morganroth, Jennifer Rominiecki & Audrey Robbins

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CALL OR TEXT US

• socialscene •

Kelly & Melissa Caldwell with Bill Sadlo

David Glorius & Kimberley Pelyk

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF SARASOTA & DESOTO COUNTIES CHAMPIONS FOR CHILDREN GALA BGCSDC welcomed over 350 guests to the Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Club for the 11th Annual Champions for Children gala to honor Caldwell Trust Company. The signature event was presented by the Annette J. Hagens Memorial Foundation and recognized Caldwell Trust Company’s transformational commitment to helping local youth achieve their full potential for nearly three decades. Proceeds will ensure youth across Sarasota and DeSoto Counties have access to award-winning programs.

Renee Phinney, Sheryl Vieira

Matt & Barbara McAleer JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

• socialscene • Co-chairs Allison Imry Perkowski & Renee Phinney

Dawn Spencer, Charlotte Stewart, Elizabeth Moore

FORTY CARROTS FAMILY CENTER WINE, WOMEN & SHOES More than 500 guests gathered at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota to enjoy one of Sarasota’s biggest and most fun events, Wine, Women & Shoes. The annual luncheon, shopping experience and fashion show benefits Forty Carrots Family Center, which serves over 5,000 Sarasota and Manatee families annually.

Michelle Kapreilian

Kelly Fromm & Kim Krupa

Lex Fraser

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

Katherine Harris, Emily Walsh, Terri Klauber & Elisabeth Waters

President

Tommy Gregory, J.D.

Friday, February 7, 2025 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM SCF Bradenton Campus

Purchase Your Ticket Today! Individual Tickets – $250 Table of 8 –$2,000 Sponsorship & Underwriter Opportunities Available

Please Scan the QR Codes for Ticket & Sponsorship Information

• ph i la n t hr o p y •

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

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Eppard

RENEE & WALTER and Tidewell Foundation By Tom Reese | Photo by Nancy Guth

When Tidewell Foundation was established in 2020 to simplify and streamline philanthropy efforts for Tidewell Hospice, Renee and Walt Eppard had already been established donors and passionately involved in Tidewell Hospice, which was established 40 years ago and is the region’s only not-for-profit hospice care organization. The Eppards Renee and Walt have been married for 45 years and have spent their entire lives right here in Sarasota. Renee spent the better part of her life working as a Real Estate broker specializing in corporate relocation, property management, real estate sales and development. She retired in 2007 and eventually got involved volunteering for the Ringling College Library Association (RCLA) Town Hall Lecture Series, where she would later become organization president in 2015. After becoming aware of Tidwell and its mission, Renee decided to step up and in 2018 helped launch a new state-of-the-art hospice house in Lakewood Ranch. She was asked to join the Board of Trustees for Tidewell Hospice and later became a founding board member when Tidewell Foundation was launched. Walt, a United States Air Force Veteran and engineer, is deeply committed to assisting students who are pursuing non-traditional career paths outside of conventional colleges or universities. Walt firmly believes that those engaged in vocational and technical professions could achieve significant success. Recognizing that these students required additional encouragement, he aspired to serve as a source of motivation for them, working with

Gulf Coast Community Foundation to donate money for local projects and schools in the industry. Tidewell Foundation’s World-Class Services Tidewell Foundation’s mission is to brighten the lives of the patients, families, and residents of communities by increasing awareness, funds, engagement, and advocacy to sustain and expand the exceptional programs and services offered. In 2021, Tidewell Hospice united with Empath Health to establish the nation’s largest not-for-profit hospice health system. The Tidewell Foundation exists to support the needs for Tidewell Hospice, but there is so much more than meets the eye when it comes to various services and programs offered by the foundation. Renee and Walt are quite passionate about the many services provided by the Tidewell Foundation, particularly its Blue Butterfly Program. Over 8,000 children in the Sarasota region have experienced the loss of a parent or sibling. In response to this significant need, Tidewell initiated the Blue Butterfly Program. This program is an evidence-based community outreach initiative designed for children aged 5 to 18 and their caregivers who have faced the death of a significant individual in their lives. Tidewell supports families in managing their grief in constructive ways, placing particular emphasis on children. Our evidence-based therapeutic approach aims to help children prevent negative behavioral outcomes while JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

• ph i la n t hr o p y •

“My main mission is to make people aware of all the various programs Tidewell offers and how important they can be.” –Renee Eppard

providing them with opportunities to connect with peers who have also endured loss. “Walt and I were major donors for the Tidewell Family Grief Center in Ellenton, and I’ve actually volunteered in the Blue Butterfly Program,” said Renee. “I encourage everyone to visit and get involved. It really opens your eyes to how vital the program is for these children that don’t know how to process their grief.” Tidewell Hospice also offers a comprehensive 13-month Grief Support Program at no cost to the family members following the passing of its patients. This initiative is facilitated and funded by Tidewell Foundation. Support services are available at various locations, including Ellenton, Lakewood Ranch, West Bradenton, Sarasota, Venice, Englewood/North Port, and Port Charlotte. “I have had friends in my neighborhood who have lost their spouse and sought help from Tidewell’s grief programs. My main mission is to make people aware of all the various programs Tidewell offers and how important they can be,” said Renee. Another pivotal program for Tidewell Foundation that needs support is the Advanced Cardiac Care Program. This program integrates clinical protocols with educational resources while incorporating evidence-based tools designed to enhance the quality of care while alleviating stress and unnecessary financial burdens for families by promoting hospice care at home, thereby minimizing emergency room visits and overnight hospital stays. Tidewell Hospice was chosen as one of 29 hospices nationwide to participate in this specific national pilot program supported by the American Heart Association, in collaboration with the National Partnership for Hospice Innovation.

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In Tidewell’s premier Expressive Arts Program, skilled therapists guide patients to shift their attention from pain through a range of innovative therapeutic approaches, including expressive arts, music therapy, pet therapy, and massage, in conjunction with traditional medical practices. This combination provides spiritual and emotional solace that conventional medicine may not offer. These clinically validated therapies significantly alleviate pain and anxiety, fostering an enhanced sense of well-being. Initiated in 2018 to address the nationwide nursing shortage, the Tidewell Hospice Nurse Residency Program, supported by donations and the Tidewell Foundation, offers an extensive 12-month training experience for newly graduated nurses aspiring to specialize in hospice care. This program delivers thorough, individualized training, enabling nurse residents to grasp the intricacies of hospice nursing until they are prepared to manage a complete patient caseload. Tidewell stands out as the sole hospice in Florida to offer such a program and is the first in the country to obtain accreditation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The Tidewell Honors Veterans Program has provided specialized hospice care to over 2,000 Veterans across Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties, addressing the distinct challenges encountered by numerous military families. This initiative is supported by dedicated volunteers who are specially trained to visit and pay tribute to Veteran patients. Additionally, the program is entirely funded by the generosity of donors. The Wishes Fund of the Tidewell Foundation grants final wishes for patients of Tidewell Hospice and their families. This may include experiences such as a last flight for a retired pilot, the renewal of wedding vows, or a memorable evening with a spouse or loved one. This initiative is particularly favored by donors due to its profound ability

• ph i la n t hr o p y •

to elevate the spirits of Tidewell patients and their families, providing a cherished positive memory prior to the patient’s passing. Tidewell also offers complimentary care for children. In the event of a child’s serious illness, the last concern a family should have is the financial burden of hospice care. This is precisely why Tidewell offers complimentary care to children facing advanced illnesses, along with assistance for their families as they navigate these challenging times. Thanks to the generosity of donors, local children receive the compassionate care and medical attention they rightfully deserve.

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Empath Health and Tidewell are set to expand the Program of Allinclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) to the Manasota area. Providing comprehensive care to seniors, this new center allows frail elderly seniors to receive medical care, social services, and therapeutic support in a coordinated and communitybased setting, helping them live well independently. The new Stratum Life Center is located at 303 13th Avenue E, Bradenton, FL, and is opening this month.

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“We have loved every minute of working with Tidewell and their wonderful staff. I look forward to being the Chair of the Board for Tidewell Hospice this year, and all the wonderful work we will do together for our community,” said Renee.

F OR M ORE IN F O R M ATI O N about Tidewell Foundation and its programs, to make donations, or to find volunteer opportunities, please visit at www.tidewellfoundation.org.

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Experience stunning Walton Ranch at this celebrated farm-to-table luncheon on the land. Tickets and sponsorships available now at bigwaterslandtrust.org/feast25. Hobart & janis swan brad & jane grandbouche

lowe morrison & leiza fitzgerald

JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

jon

PHOTOS BY NANCY GUTH

AROUND TOWN

thaxton 50

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• insider •

by t o m r e e s e

He’s a fifth generation Sarasotan, a former County Commissioner, and Senior Vice President for Community Leadership at Gulf Coast Community Foundation. While his accomplishments are plentiful and important, it is Jon Thaxton’s environmental advocacy and love of nature that has been the important driver in his life. If he is not raising awareness for the betterment of our region, you can find him outdoors enjoying life as it was meant to be lived. Growing up on a farm near Osprey, you learned at a young age to hunt, fish, and explore. What was Sarasota County like then? I grew up on a chicken farm at what is now Roessler’s Restaurant. I was able to walk out my back door and immediately start hunting quail and doves. When I was about 14 years of age, my mother taught me the proper use of firearms, including gun safety. She would not let us have a BB gun. She thought they were dangerous because kids treated them as toys, and she felt that firearms should be treated as tools. So, she gave me a Mossberg 12-gauge shotgun for Christmas and taught me how to use it correctly. At the time Palmer Ranch was still a functioning cattle ranch, full of wildlife and game – deer, hog, turkey, and albeit rare, the Florida panther. Osprey and Vamo were commercial fishing villages. The adjacent bays were so healthy that large schools of fish would cast shadows that looked like huge black clouds covering acres of the bay’s surface. I remember as a boy exploring the wilds of Palmer Ranch and first discovering the railroad tracks. It was magical! From that day to today, the dream of having a trail on those railroad tracks has never left me. But I can’t take credit for starting the Legacy Trail movement; that credit goes to Bruce Dillon. I went to Osprey Elementary School, now the county’s Osprey Library. There were 12 children in my graduating sixth grade class. When I moved onto Venice junior and senior high schools, I also graduated to becoming a juvenile delinquent. I was arrested four times, spending two nights in the Venice jail and one night in the Polk County jail. I bring this up only because things are so different now. A young person today with an arrest record like mine would likely not become successful, better yet a county commissioner. I got a third, fourth and fifth chance. Today kids are lucky to get a second chance. In so many ways, Sarasota is very different today, some good, and some not so good.

Many may not know that you were involved with the addition to Oscar Scherer State Park and that you were involved with the public preservation of about one-third of Sarasota County’s native lands. Please tell us more. The Oscar Scherer State Park addition happened in 1990, ten years before I became a county commissioner. I championed the campaign to add 1,200 acres to the existing 460-acre state park. The owner of the addition at the time was Hugh Culverhouse Sr., owner of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. It was the state’s first Florida Forever land acquisition. So, there was much fanfare with legislators, environmentalists, and local leaders attending the ribbon cutting. Actually, we cut a strand of barbed wire, not a ribbon. It’s important to recognize that having a third of the county preserved resulted from a multi-generational effort. Beginning early in its history, Sarasotans have recognized the valuable and irreplaceable nature of Sarasota’s wildlands. Individuals like Bertha Palmer and subsequent cattle ranching families including the Carltons and Longinos pioneered the land conservation effort long before my generation. Seeing the ever-diminishing natural areas of Sarasota County, Jono Miller and I could see that within our lifetimes every parcel of land in Sarasota would be destined for either development or for preservation. And we knew that a funding source adequate to preserve enough land to preserve sustainable wildlife populations did not exist. So, we proposed asking voters to approve dedicating a portion of their property taxes to purchase environmentally sensitive lands. Overwhelmingly the voters agreed and have supported this critical cause time and again. Our fifth environmental lands referendum will be on the ballot in 2026. It’s because of this multi-generational effort and voters agreeing to tax themselves that one-third of the

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• insider •

“I THINK IF YOU ASK SARASOTANS WHETHER THEY WOULD PREFER TO SEE MORE OPEN SPACE AND CONSERVATION LANDS OR MORE DEVELOPMENT, THE VAST MAJORITY WILL CHOOSE CONSERVATION.”

county is preserved for future generations to enjoy. Is a third enough? I think if you ask Sarasotans whether they would prefer to see more open space and conservation lands or more development, the vast majority will choose conservation. You joined Gulf Coast Community Foundation (GCCF) in 2012 and are currently Senior Vice President of Community Leadership. What are your duties and responsibilities? The operative word is ‘currently,’ because I will be changing positions in March of 2025. Currently, I create and implement Gulf Coast’s key strategies for transforming our nonprofit community while providing leadership on emerging issues. That’s a fancy way to say I oversee grants and initiative funding. In the spring of 2025, I will be demoting myself from VP to a director’s role where I will focus on public policy and advocacy. What are the most significant areas of impact GCCF has made on our region? The first thing I would note is that all the areas of significant impact that Gulf Coast has had on our region happened because of strong partnerships with government, notfor-profit agencies, and donors. We accomplish nothing without them. The initiatives I am most proud of include our work with All Faiths Food Bank to improve the distribution of nutritious food and working with the Sarasota County School District to expand the free and reduced lunch summertime feeding program. I stress “nutritious” because when we first started the focus was on measuring food

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distribution success in calories, including foods with high salt, sugar, and fat. Our goal was to move to meat proteins, dairy products, and fresh vegetables. Another initiative I’m proud of is the creation of a comprehensive and coordinated network of homeless services. When we first reviewed homeless services, especially those dealing with children and families, there was a noticeable disconnect. At one meeting, a Gulf Coast donor offered a blank check to any agency that could help get a family that was sleeping in a van at a Walmart into a hotel room—no one would take the check. We knew we had a problem. Now All Faiths Food Bank is a model food bank in the Feeding America national network, and our homeless services network has seen double digit decreases in chronic homelessness for the last four consecutive years. I am also proud of Jennifer Johnston, Gulf Coast’s Director of Community Leadership, for providing leadership and data resources necessary to reform mental health and substance abuse services in Sarasota County. Affordable housing is a current Gulf Coast initiative where we’re partnering with other local foundations to advocate for the best practice recommendations adopted by the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee and offering data to better inform public policy decisions. There’s one more notable addition—The Bay. Public parks are a multi-generational endeavor and their benefits are evergreen. Being on the ground floor with Virginia Haley and Michael Klauber to create what will be one of the most iconic parks in the state of Florida is truly a distinction I am honored to have and to share.

• insider •

How has GCCF defined the immediate and future needs of our region and what is the plan to meet these needs? Every couple of years, we contract with an outside firm to prepare a Regional Scan. The scan is developed with input from community leaders, donors, governments, and non-profit agencies. With the empirical data and the anecdotal input from this broad representation of local subject matter experts, we’re able to define or estimate future needs. But we must remain adaptable to respond to unforeseen needs such as severe economic downturns, COVID-19, hurricanes, and red tide. Is there a particular person that has inspired you personally in your life, and is there someone who has inspired you professionally? I will break these into three different thoughts: Historically. Alexander von Humboldt. He is the father of so many of the natural sciences and generations ahead of his time. Reading about his adventures, studies, and observations is inspirational every time I read and reread them. Early life. As a youth, I could not stay out of trouble. I dropped out of high school twice for very short periods of time but fortunately returned and graduated on time. My high school biology teacher, Bill Wimbish, was a hunter, outdoorsman and taxidermist. In my junior year, I brought Mr. Wimbish a copy of the proposed I-75 route through Sarasota County. As planned, it would destroy significant wetlands and areas I knew to be rich in wildlife. Mr. Wimbish convinced me to write a letter to the Department of Transportation proposing a more ecologically responsible alignment. Using magic markers and crayons, I depicted an I-75 route that would avoid the sensitive areas. My efforts were ignored, a complete failure. But I had my first taste of public policy and had discovered a new, legal, and productive way to create mischief. I’m now 67 years old, and I haven’t stopped these teacher-inspired provocative efforts since. Contemporary. One of my continuing sources of inspiration is Jono Miller. I am inspired by his amazing intellect and creativity, neither of which I possess to any notable degree and since Jono has more than he needs, I take advantage of our friendship and plagiarize his talents often. He doesn’t seem to mind. I understand you’re a big fan of The Andy Griffith Show and have an incredible collection of memorabilia. When did this passion start and when did you begin collecting? I have been a fan of The Andy Griffith Show as long as I can remember. As a young boy I identified with Opie, his slingshot, his bicycle, his shyness around girls, and his inability to dance. But also, his love for fishing and exploring the outdoors. There’s 249 episodes and I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve watched them all. I watch them in sequence from the pilot to the final episode and then I start over and do it again and again. I started collecting about 10 or 15 years ago and now have one of the largest collections second only to the Andy Griffith Museum in Mount Airy, North Carolina. I only display the collection up every 2 to 3 years as it takes a month to put it up and another month to take it down. When it’s up, my entire house is converted into an Andy Griffith museum from Thanksgiving to New Years. Once people see it, they never look at me the same way again. JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

S R SOT

CONCERT

SSOCI TION

Experience the Extraordinary! Pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet

Jan 15, 2025, 7:30 pm Riverview Performing Arts Center Debussy’s Preludes Books I and II.

The Cleveland Orchestra

Kahchun Wong, conductor Sayaka Shoji, violin Jan 26, 2025, 7:30 pm | Van Wezel Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition.

Czech National Symphony Orchestra

Steven Mercurio, Music Director Maxim Lando, piano Feb 13, 2025, 7:30 pm | Van Wezel Dvořák’s New World Symphony

An Evening with Yo-Yo Ma

Reflections in Words & Music Feb 27, 2025, 7:30 pm Van Wezel

SCASarasota.org 941-966-6161

What are some of your most memorable vacations outside of Florida? My most recent memorable vacation outside of Florida was birding in Oaxaca, Mexico. I was able to add over 100 new bird species to my life list. My favorite cultural trip was to Iceland. I had no concept of Icelandic culture, its geology, or lifestyles where it’s dark for months at a time and then daylight months at a time. It was a complete cultural shock, but I enjoyed it immensely. In terms of food and wine, Italy is hard to beat. The Italian wines, even a restaurant’s red table wines are phenomenal. The food is fresh, locally sourced, and you can taste the terroir in the food as well as the wine. Finally, memorable in terms of people, that would have to be Cuba. Cubans are beautiful in so many ways. They are rich in heritage and their music and arts are second to none. The Cuban people are hungering for democracy. Given the right economic environment, Cuba would become a democracy and a strong ally of the United States of America.

Only Sarasota Concert Association sells valid tickets to our performances.

For more information about Gulf Coast Community Foundation, please visit www.gulfcoastcf.org.

Vivaldi Four Seasons

Les Arts Florissants Théotime Langlois de Swarte, violin March 14, 2025, 7:30 pm Riverview Performing Arts Center

National Symphony Orchestra

Gianandrea Noseda, Music Director Hilary Hahn, violin March 24, 2025, 7:30 pm | Van Wezel Erich Korngold’s Violin Concerto and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5.

Tell us about the sportsman Jon Thaxton today and what are some of your favorite outdoor adventures? Because of multiple retina detachments, my turkey and quail hunting days are over, mostly, so I spend as much time as I can fishing. Additionally, a lifelong hobby that ironically started with me killing birds, is birding. My vacations prioritize locations that have the highest likelihood of seeing bird species to add to my “life list.” Most people don’t think of birdwatching as an outdoor adventure, but they would if they came with me. It’s physical, strenuous, adventurous, and an outdoor activity that I will enjoy as long as I am able.

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JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

A PHILANTHROPIC PARTNER

WITH HEART S A R A S O TA M E M O R I A L H E A LT H C A R E F O U N D AT I O N By Kaileia Suvannamaccha 56

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Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation (SMHF) provides Sarasota Memorial Hospital (SMH) with critical resources for the development and delivery of world-class care. At the core of every initiative is a deep commitment to addressing Sarasota County’s growing healthcare needs, fostering innovation, and making care accessible to all. CANCER CARE REIMAGINED: BRIAN D. JELLISON CANCER INSTITUTE Under President Stacey Corley’s leadership, SMHF has achieved significant milestones, raising over $95 million for its cancer services campaign. For Corley, this accomplishment symbolizes more than just fundraising success. “That campaign was a long time coming,” she shares. “To achieve and exceed our goal faster than expected is testament to the generosity of this community and the importance of what we’re doing.” This success paves the way for the Milman-Kover Cancer Pavilion on the SMH-Sarasota campus, set to open in 2026. The state-of-the-art facility will consolidate outpatient cancer services under one roof, enhancing access to comprehensive care. It will feature an expanded Breast Health Center, outpatient operating rooms, and services like chemotherapy, radiation oncology, and physician consultations. Corley describes it as a “one-stop shop for outpatient cancer needs,” emphasizing convenience for local patients and their families.

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ADVANCING RESEARCH AND EDUCATION: THE KOLSCHOWSKY RESEARCH AND EDUCATION INSTITUTE Another significant project nearing the horizon is the Kolschowsky Research and Education Institute, described by Corley as “the new hub for gamechanging clinical research and training programs,” scheduled to open in late spring 2025. “This facility promotes collaboration and innovation,” she explains. “It will help us attract top physicians and advance patient care through cutting-edge education and research.” The institute will feature technologically advanced simulation labs for hands-on training in labor and delivery, operating room procedures, and emergency room care. It will also include spaces dedicated to nursing and pharmacy education, graduate medical programs, and a medical library designed to support ongoing learning. By consolidating research and training programs in one location, SMHF is ensuring that SMH remains at the forefront of medical innovation.

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SMH’S EXCEPTIONAL RANKINGS AND ACHIEVEMENTS Corley also highlights the hospital’s outstanding rankings: “SMH is ranked in the top 1% in many categories, which is quite unusual for a community hospital. We’re a Magnet hospital for nursing, meaning we’re in the very top percent for nursing care. This distinction helps us recruit exceptional nurses who want to work in a place with high rankings for both nursing care and education. Our nursing staff is involved in cutting-edge clinical research, an opportunity not all hospitals can offer.” SMH also has a five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). “We’re the only hospital in Florida to have received the highest five-star rating every year. That’s a remarkable achievement.” The hospital’s commitment to patient safety is further evidenced by its consistently high ratings from LeapFrog. “SMH-Sarasota continued the straight A rating it has held since 2016. SMH-Venice earned its second A rating this fall after receiving an A grade in its first reporting period this spring.”

EXPANDING ACCESS TO WORLD-CLASS CARE As Sarasota’s population continues to grow, SMH rises to the challenge, expanding healthcare access across the region through various initiatives. The SMH Venice campus exemplifies this effort, having doubled its emergency room capacity and added 100 new beds. With its convenient location near the interstate, the campus ensures more residents can receive the care they need close to home. SMH is also planning the development of new medical campuses in Wellen Park and North Port. Sarasota’s rapid growth has made exceptional healthcare a key priority, with many residents citing SMH as a deciding factor in their decision to move or retire to the area. As a safety-net hospital, SMH serves all patients, regardless of their ability to pay—a mission made possible in part through SMHF’s philanthropic efforts and the generosity of donors.

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“We live in an incredibly generous community. Many donors give out of gratitude for the exceptional care they or their loved ones received at Sarasota Memorial,” Corley shares. These gifts strengthen the health system by supporting vital resources like the Community Specialty Clinic, which provides care for uninsured or underinsured patients. “Philanthropy plays a critical role in ensuring this clinic stays open and accessible,” she adds. THE GRATITUDE AND GENEROSITY OF SMHF’S DONORS Corley highlights that many gifts are rooted in transformative, life-changing experiences. “We love hearing stories about how someone’s life was saved here or how we made a difference for their family. Many donors want to ensure that other families have access to the same high-quality care they experienced.” Reflecting on the holiday season, Corley shares, “People often don’t remember the gifts they receive, but they remember the gifts they give. And that’s how our donors feel. They get as much joy out of their giving as they would if they were the one receiving it. It’s certainly an act of joy and generosity, and it’s an honor for our team to work with such incredibly generous people every day.”

“Many donors give out of gratitude for the exceptional care they or their loved ones received at Sarasota Memorial.” Stacey Corley

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Donations, whether large or small, have a lasting impact. “Every gift counts,” Corley emphasizes. “Each donation helps improve lives, save lives, and elevates the quality of care for our patients.” SMHF’s role has been especially crucial during times of crisis. During the pandemic, the Foundation funded essential items like PPE, ventilators, and rapid testing, while also providing financial support to SMH employees severely affected by hurricane damage. “Our donors stepped forward to support healthcare workers who leave their families to care for patients,” Corley notes. “It’s incredibly moving to see the community rally behind our healthcare workers.” HOW TO HELP For those looking to get involved, Stacey Corley emphasizes that there are many ways to contribute to the Foundation’s mission. “We offer a variety of opportunities to engage, from attending our signature events like The Hospital Gala, annual golf tournament, and Rock the Roof, to participating in the Women and Medicine educational luncheons,” she says. The next luncheon will take place in Venice this February and Sarasota in March, and Corley highlights the value of these educational gatherings: “I recently spoke with someone who attended last year’s luncheon and learned about lung cancer screening. They’re still sharing that knowledge today. The goal is for everyone to leave having learned something new.” The Foundation also tailors its engagement efforts to individual donors, offering personalized tours and discussions to align contributions with areas of personal significance. “Whether it’s personal interest or a general desire to ensure excellent healthcare, we love working with people to make their giving meaningful,” says Corley. “SMH is a world-renowned, world-class health system. We feel like we’re making a big difference in the world.” With the continued support of the community, SMHF is supporting a healthier future for the region, ensuring exceptional care for generations to come. To learn more about how you can support Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation and contribute to its mission, please visit smhf.org.

JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

AUGUST WILSON’S

FENCES

JIM WEAVER JAN 15–FEB 23, 2025 DIRECTED BY

“August Wilson’s Fences” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com

westcoastblacktheatre.org westcoastblacktheatre.org

941-366-1505 941-366-1505 1012 N ORANGE AVE SARASOTA 1012 N ORANGE AVE SARASOTA

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SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

STEVEN REICHBACH

When board-certified anesthesiologist Dr. Steven Reichbach moved to Florida from New York nine years ago, he’d been working for decades at the largest private practice anesthesiology group in the country. Though he enjoyed what he did, he was considering a different focus in medicine—treatment for chronic pain, depression, PTSD, and addiction. Dr. Reichbach was intrigued by research surfacing about long-term pain and mental health treatment with a common anesthetic drug, ketamine. He was very familiar with this drug, as he had been using it in his practice since 1991. “One of my former partners had opened up an office providing IV ketamine infusions for mental health disorders,” he said. “So, I spoke with him and realized I could use my knowledge and experience with ketamine in a different way, outside of the operating room.” Not long after, Dr. Reichbach opened Reichbach Center on University Parkway in Sarasota. Initially, 90% to 95% of Dr. Reichbach’s patients were selfreferred. Many felt their psychiatrist wouldn’t approve of their ketamine treatments. Today, around 70% of his patients are referrals from therapists and psychiatrists. He attributes this change to more knowledge about ketamine in the media, as well as psychiatrists and therapists seeing results from their patients firsthand. Dr. Reichbach has extended his practice by introducing an IV lounge and medical cannabis evaluations. The MedBar IV Lounge offers revitalization for many needs via vitamin IV therapy. In response to patients’ demands

and recognizing their needs, he uses medical cannabis as an option for sleep and anxiety issues and pain disorders not treated with ketamine therapy. With such a high demand for his services, Reichbach Center is growing fast, and the future is promising as many people are looking for better solutions to heal from their chronic pain while also overcoming conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and even alcohol addiction. “The most rewarding thing is when a patient tells me they feel like their old self again. Seeing the light come back into their eyes . . . that’s as good as it gets.” Since 2016, Reichbach Center has remained dedicated to offering a place of comfort and a place of hope to patientguests throughout the Gulf Coast region and across the nation. Reichbach Center proudly serves as a national center for the treatment of chronic pain and mental health disorders by offering ketamine infusions, medical cannabis assessments, and expertise in emerging psychotropic treatments for pain and mental health.

Visit findpainrelief.com for more information.

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George Harrison: A Gardener’s Life An Immersive Celebration at Selby Botanical Gardens By Hunter Hageman Selby Botanical Gardens is renowned as a “living museum,” blending the beauty of nature with the power of art. This year, the Jean & Alfred Goldstein Exhibition Series proudly presents “George Harrison: A Gardener’s Life,” an extraordinary tribute to the former Beatle, his music, and his deep connection to the natural world. The exhibition will be open from February 9 through June 29,2025, inviting visitors to step into an enchanting experience that merges the magic of Harrison’s artistry with the botanical splendor of Selby Gardens.

George Harrison at Friar Park, 1975 © Terry O’Neill/Iconic Images

A Beatle and His Love for Nature While George Harrison is celebrated globally as a musical legend, he also cherished a quieter passion: gardening. Often referring to himself as “just a gardener,” Harrison spent much of his life revitalizing the grounds of Friar Park, his Victorian-era estate in Henleyon-Thames, England. This labor of love included restoring overgrown gardens, designing intricate landscapes, and creating tranquil spaces that reflected his love for peace and harmony. His devotion to this work revealed a profound bond with nature, a theme that resonates deeply with the mission of Selby Gardens. Jennifer Rominiecki, President and CEO of Selby Gardens, highlights the inspiration behind the exhibition: “For this series, we’re looking at major artists through the lens of their connection to nature. George Harrison’s life and work perfectly align with this vision. His passion for gardening is as inspiring as his music.” Harrison’s connection to Friar Park extended beyond its physical beauty. He found solace and creative inspiration in its gardens, often writing music while surrounded by nature. This duality of musician and gardener is at the heart of the exhibition, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Harrison’s world. An Immersive Experience “A Gardener’s Life” promises to be an unforgettable, multi-sensory event. “There are a lot of layers to the exhibition, and it really will be an immersive experience,” says Rominiecki. Visitors can explore garden vignettes inspired by Harrison’s Friar Park. These vignettes, thoughtfully curated in the Conservatory and throughout Selby Gardens, evoke the harmony and serenity Harrison found in his gardens. Each vignette reflects elements of Harrison’s gardening philosophy, blending meticulous design with natural beauty. JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

Adding to the atmosphere, Harrison’s music will serve as a soundtrack to the exhibit, bringing his creative spirit to life in an entirely new way. Guests will also have the chance to enjoy photo opportunities, savor themed food and beverages, and marvel at the artistry of nature intertwined with human creativity. From interactive displays to quiet corners that encourage reflection, every detail has been designed to honor Harrison’s legacy.

In January 2024, Selby Gardens reached a remarkable milestone, becoming the world’s first net-positive energy botanical garden. This groundbreaking achievement means the gardens generate more energy than they consume, setting a global standard for sustainability. Solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and innovative energy-efficient designs contribute to this achievement, underscoring Selby Gardens’ commitment to protecting the environment.

The exhibition doesn’t stop at the physical. Digital elements will enhance the experience, with multimedia presentations and QR codes that provide deeper insights into Harrison’s life, his music, and his passion for gardening. These elements ensure that every visitor, whether familiar with Harrison’s work or new to his story, will leave feeling inspired.

The gardens also serve as a hub for botanical research, education, and conservation. Its extensive living collection includes rare orchids, bromeliads, and tropical plants, making Selby Gardens a treasure trove for plant enthusiasts and scientists alike. By pairing these natural wonders with art exhibitions, the gardens create a space where visitors can explore the intersection of creativity and ecology.

A Living Museum in Bloom Selby Gardens is much more than a botanical garden— it is a “living museum” where plants, art, and science converge. This vision has been cultivated since its founding in 1973, with a mission to connect people with the beauty and importance of the natural world. Its dedication to sustainability, diversity, and inclusion ensures that every visitor feels welcome and inspired.

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Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion Selby Gardens’ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Plan underscores its dedication to welcoming everyone. The gardens celebrate diverse cultures and perspectives, embracing the universality of art and nature. Through initiatives like the Jean & Alfred Goldstein Exhibition Series, Selby Gardens brings the world’s most iconic

“At Selby Gardens, we believe that nature and art are universal languages that connect people. This exhibition is an opportunity to celebrate those connections in a way that resonates with everyone.” —Jennifer Rominiecki

artists into conversation with the natural world, offering transformative experiences for people of all backgrounds. Rominiecki emphasizes this commitment: “At Selby Gardens, we believe that nature and art are universal languages that connect people. This exhibition is an opportunity to celebrate those connections in a way that resonates with everyone.” By honoring Harrison’s legacy, the gardens invite visitors to reflect on their own relationship with the natural world and consider how they can contribute to its preservation. Plan Your Visit “George Harrison: A Gardener’s Life” is not just an exhibition—it’s a journey into the heart of a man who found peace and purpose in the soil. It is a celebration of art, music, and nature, inviting us to reflect on the interconnectedness of all three. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Harrison’s music or simply looking for inspiration, the exhibit offers something special for everyone. From its intricate garden vignettes to its rich soundtrack and delectable offerings, the experience is designed to delight all the senses. Visitors can find more details and plan their visit at selby.org. Learn about the gardens’ history, explore its sustainability initiatives, and discover the full range of events and activities offered year-round. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of George Harrison while enjoying the unparalleled beauty of Selby Botanical Gardens. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience at Selby Gardens, where the magic of a living museum meets the soulful artistry of a true gardener. With its layered experiences, cutting-edge sustainability efforts, and welcoming spirit, Selby Gardens continues to set a benchmark for botanical gardens worldwide.

JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

BUILT FOR YOU

CUSTOM-BUILT PROGRAMS TO ELIMINATE YOUR NECK & BACK PAIN PLATELET-RICH PLASMA (PRP) therapy is one of the new, promising biological therapies that facilitates the body’s natural power to promote tissue regeneration and to heal the damaged discs, joints, and muscles of the spine. Our experienced team of leading professionals has remedied a wide range of spine-related diseases with PRP treatment.

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417624-1

BONNIE WANG, MD

Mindful Drinking Tips and Recipes for Clean Drinking in the New Year by Jacqueline Miller Being more mindful about our alcohol consumption is becoming increasingly popular these days, especially among younger people. There is a growing trend among the young to be more conscious about what they are putting in their bodies, with drinking less alcohol becoming a way of life for many. In addition to the already widely known non-alcoholic beer, non-alcohol vodkas and gins are gaining in popularity. Also gaining in popularity are “better for you” cocktails that contain alcohol but have fewer artificial ingredients, less sugar and are more “clean.” With this healthier trend, did you know we have a women-owned, alcohol and cocktail company crafting spirits made with the goodness of a powerful antioxidant at a Sarasota distillery?

JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

cocktails can be both delicious, complex, and health and lifestyle conscious. So why the goji berry? When Kris was in her 20s, she recovered from what was called an incurable illness and the goji berry played a big role in her recovery. These berries are very rich in antioxidants, which can prevent cell damage and reduce inflammation. They can also boost immunity. Goji berries also reduce the ethanol taste and alcohol burn creating a smooth drinking experience, plus Kris loves the fun fact that in Asian lore these berries are considered an aphrodisiac! Kris says that her Beauty Booze Goji Berry-Infused Vodka has more of a personality than a flavor, and it elevates its “brightness” with citrus, berries and olives. It can be used in any vodka cocktail. Due to its smoothness, cocktails crafted with Beauty Booze vodka can have less sugar and fewer artificial ingredients than many other vodka cocktails making it a great choice for anyone or any restaurant or bar wanting to answer the need for mindful drinking consumers.

Kris Ravenscroft is the visionary founder of Beauty Booze, and she is also a passionate advocate for mindful drinking. According to Kris, “Beauty Booze is the only alcohol company that encourages you to drink less.” Kris is a Nutritionist and entrepreneur and an all-around lover of joy. Combining her expertise in nutrition, her flair for creativity, and her love for intentional living, Kris has a different definition of what it means to enjoy a cocktail. Her mission is simple yet transformative: to empower people to drink less but drink better, savoring each sip with purpose and pleasure. The Beauty Booze philosophy for mindful drinking is about caring for what, how much, and how often you drink. It’s about choosing quality over quantity, savoring the moment, and ensuring alcohol complements your life, not controls it. Kris crafts goji berry-infused spirits which create versatile, low sugar, low calorie cleaner cocktails proving that 70

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

The Kristini, named for Kris by a friend, is a simple yet versatile cocktail formula. Kris says, “Whether you’re mixing a drink for yourself or creating a signature variation for a gathering, the Kristini provides a reliable, thoughtful starting point for a more intentional and enjoyable cocktail experience.”

i n i t s Kri

me ka z vod emon or li o 5 . hl • 1 z fres hoice) d o ½ • etene ur c e o w y ( s n e ru juic ater o rkling) w z o ice spa • 1 r cho r lat or tea (f ice of you ary liqueu t u j n e z • 1 o complem z o • ¼

Here are just of few of the many possible cleaner cocktail recipes using the Kristini formula for your mindful drinking journey.

Citrus Breeze • 1.5 oz vodka • ½ oz fresh lime juice • 1 oz sparkling water • 1 oz grapefruit juice • ¼ oz elderflower liqueur Bright, zesty, and refreshing, this cocktail is perfect for citrus lovers.

Berry Bliss • 1.5 oz vodka • ½ oz fresh lemon juice • 1 oz unsweetened iced tea • 1 oz cranberry juice • ¼ oz raspberry liqueur A tart yet slightly sweet drink with a vibrant berry kick.

Autumn Orchard • 1.5 oz vodka • ½ oz fresh lemon juice • 1 oz sparkling water • 1 oz apple cider • ¼ oz cinnamon liqueur A warm, spiced drink ideal for fall evenings.

Peach Tea Spritz • 1.5 oz vodka • ½ oz fresh lemon juice • 1 oz unsweetened black tea • 1 oz peach nectar • ¼ oz peach liqueur Smooth and elegant with subtle fruitiness.

JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

Pomegranate Sparkle

Chai Spice Cooler

• 1.5 oz vodka • ½ oz fresh lemon juice • 1 oz sparkling water • 1 oz pomegranate juice • ¼ oz orange liqueur

• 1.5 oz vodka • ½ oz fresh lime juice • 1 oz unsweetened chai tea • 1 oz apple juice • ¼ oz cinnamon liqueur

Rich, tart, and perfect for festive occasions.

Rich, spiced, and ideal for cozy sipping.

Cucumber Cooler

Zesty Cherry Punch

• 1.5 oz vodka • ½ oz fresh lime juice • 1 oz sparkling water • 1 oz cucumber juice (or muddled cucumber and strained water) • ¼ oz elderflower liqueur

• 1.5 oz vodka • ½ oz fresh lemon juice • 1 oz sparkling water • 1 oz tart cherry juice • ¼ oz vanilla liqueur

Clean and refreshing with a spa-like vibe.

A tart yet slightly sweet cocktail with a smooth vanilla finish.

Citrus Lavender Bliss

For more Beauty Booze cocktail recipes and to learn more, visit beautybooze.com.

• 1.5 oz vodka • ½ oz fresh lemon juice • 1 oz flat water • 1 oz grapefruit juice • ¼ oz lavender liqueur Soft and floral, perfect for a relaxing evening.

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

SARASOTA OPERA’S

Winter Festival

Author: Tom Reese | Photography: Peter Acker

BY SCOTT FERGUSON When Victor DeRenzi lived in New York City, he often rode the subway to opera performances. The trip was relatively short, but the destination transported him to faraway places. “At the opera, I was suddenly in Spain, or Egypt, or Paris,” he says. “I became interested in opera because it was my chance to go someplace else, to enter a different world. That’s one of the many things opera can do.” Now in his 43rd season as Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of Sarasota Opera, Maestro DeRenzi and his colleagues bring the living art of opera to devoted audiences, taking them on a musical journey far beyond the Sarasota Opera House’s downtown location and their everyday lives in the 21st century. “I want audiences to enter not just the period that an opera takes place,” says DeRenzi, “I want them to enter the lives of the characters.”

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

One of opera’s most famous characters, the tragic clown Canio in Ruggero Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci (“Clowns”), takes operagoers to 19th century Italy, and the stage of the comedy acting troupe he leads. The production is on a double bill with Pietro Mascagni’s Cavalleria rusticana (“Rustic Chivalry”), with which it is frequently paired. In that story, a man returns to his village after military service, to find that his fiancée has married someone else. Both operas feature raw passion, betrayed lovers, violent revenge — and of course, great music. “These two short operas (about an hour and 15 minutes each) are similar in subject matter and musical style,” explains Sarasota Opera General Director Richard Russell. “The style is known as verismo, which is kind of a gritty reality, both in the music and the story. “They’re about simple people — the country folk — so they complement each other well. They premiered within

‘Enter a Different World’

a couple of years of each other; Mascagni’s Cavalleria rusticana came first and was a worldwide success. Leoncavallo, who was a struggling composer at that time, knew of that success and decided to write a similar kind of piece. Withing two years, his Pagliacci premiered. Soon after, the two operas were paired, and since then, it’s almost inevitable that you’ll see them together.” The next opera in the winter lineup takes audiences to Spain — Rossini’s “opera buffa” (comic opera), The Barber of Seville. In the story, Count Almaviva yearns to win the heart of the beautiful Rosina. He gets assistance from the title character (the barber Figaro) to steal her away from her guardian, the elderly Bartolo. “Our third production in the Winter Festival, Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro, is the sequel to The Barber of Seville,” says DeRenzi, “although it premiered 30 years earlier. Rossini’s opera is about when the Count and Rosina first

meet and how, of course, they will live happily ever after. The Marriage of Figaro is set a few years later. It turns out they’re not living happily ever after,” he adds wryly, “but luckily their marriage is saved by Mozart’s incredible music.” Surprisingly, Russell says The Barber of Seville and The Marriage of Figaro are not often performed in the same opera season. “It’s very rare for a company our size to stage them both in a season as we are doing,” he says. “The Metropolitan Opera has performed both operas in the same season, but they’re doing 18 or 20 works a season. When a company like ours is doing four operas in a season, you don’t usually see them together. We decided to do them because of the timing of when we had last staged them (2018 for The Barber of Seville and 2015 for The Marriage of Figaro), but also just because it made sense and it was an interesting idea.” JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

Closing the Winter Festival is a return to Italy for Giuseppe Verdi’s Stiffelio. The title character, a Protestant minister, returns from a mission abroad to discover that his wife has been unfaithful. He faces his wife’s transgressions, but his human emotions compete with his strong religious faith. “We have a long-term commitment to the operas of Verdi,” says DeRenzi, referring to the Verdi Cycle, a 27-year project of the Sarasota Opera to perform all of Verdi’s works. Begun in 1989, it was completed in 2016. Sarasota Opera continues to present a Verdi opera every season. Stiffelio was last staged by the company in 2005. “Stiffelio has an interesting history,” says DeRenzi. “It depicts a married minister. The last scene of the opera quotes the Bible about forgiveness, presented in the opera in the context of adultery. That did not pass the Italian censors easily. Verdi decided to revise Stiffelio about five years later. Once he did, he claimed that the original opera was destroyed, and should only be performed as it was revised.”

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

The revised version, which Verdi titled Aroldo, was presented by Sarasota Opera in 1990 as part of the Verdi Cycle. “The original Stiffelio was not performed between the 1850s and 1968,” DeRenzi notes, “when a manuscript of the opera was found in a library in Naples, Italy. Stiffelio was written at the time Verdi wrote some of his greatest operas, such as Rigoletto and La Traviata, but it was unknown for many years. Its discovery was like finding Beethoven’s Symphony number five and a half. “Stiffelio was staged often in the 1990s, but it’s not done as much anymore. It fills a need for us so that our outof-town audiences can come and see an opera that they may not be able to see in their hometown, or in New York or Chicago or other opera centers. But most of all it is a compelling drama for all our audience, be they long time opera lovers or new to the art.” The 2025 Winter Festival continues Sarasota Opera’s commitment “to present opera in a way that is impassioned and faithful to the composers’ intentions,” as DeRenzi wrote in his artistic director’s message in the season program.

Russell notes that Opera America, a national service organization that supports the creation and presentation of opera, did a survey of opera audiences among a wide variety of 36 U.S. opera companies, polling 190,000 operagoers who had attended any virtual or in-person opera event between 2020 and 2024. “Since Covid, a lot of opera companies are seeing a lot of new audiences,” says Russell. “So Opera America wanted to understand what draws people to the opera today and how to keep them coming. It turns out that overwhelmingly, people want to come to traditional operas in traditional productions. And we’re seeing that with our new and returning patrons. I think when they have the opportunity to be immersed in an authentic experience — which is what we provide here at Sarasota Opera — it draws in longtime opera lovers as well as new people discovering the joy of live opera.” “We are not doing opera just for today,” DeRenzi adds. “We’re doing it to continue building an audience, so there will always be live opera and an audience to see it.”

JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

inc.

P R O P E R T I E S

LEASING DISTINCTIVE PROPERTIES FOR EXTRAORDINARY PEOPLE

Operas in the Operas Operas in the in the

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QUALITY

Rentals Needed Furnished or Unfurnished UNIV PKWY/ LWR 941.359.3435 SARASOTA 941.953.6000 BRADENTON 941.792.6900

15-March 29: February 15-March 29: February 15-March 29:February

Cavalleria , in opera in one act.by Music byMascagni, Pietro Ma Cavalleria rusticana opera one Music Pietro Cavalleria rusticana , opera in rusticana one, act. Music by act. Pietro Mascagni,

Libretto by Giovanni Targioni-Tozzetti & Guido Pagliacci, opera Libretto by Giovanni Targioni-Tozzetti &Menasci; Guido Menasci; Pagliacc Libretto by Giovanni Targioni-Tozzetti & Guido Menasci; Pagliacci, opera in a two prologue and two acts, Music &Music Libretto by Ruggero Leoncavallo inacts, a prologue two acts, & Leoncavallo Libretto by Ruggero Leon in a prologue and Music &and Libretto by Ruggero

February 22-March 29 22-March 29 February 22-March 29February Barber of Seville, opera inopera two Music Gioachino Rossini, Theopera Barber of Seville, in two acts,by Music by Gioachino The Barber ofThe Seville, in two acts, Music by acts, Gioachino Rossini, Libretto by Cesare SterbiniSterbini Libretto by Cesare Libretto by Cesare Sterbini

March 8-28

The of Figaro , opera, in four acts, Music Wolfgang The Marriage Figaro opera four acts,by Music by Wo The Marriage of Marriage Figaro , opera inof four acts, Music byinWolfgang

Amadeus Mozart/Libretto by Lorenzo Da Ponte Amadeus Mozart/Libretto Amadeus Mozart/Libretto by Lorenzo Da Ponte by Lorenzo Da Ponte

March 15-30

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March March 8-28 8-28

March March 15-30 15-30

Stiffelio, opera in three acts, Music by Giuseppe Verdi, Poetry by Stiffelio, opera by in three acts, Verdi, Music Poetry by Giuseppe Verdi, Po Stiffelio, opera in three acts, Music Giuseppe by Francesco Maria Piave Francesco Maria Piave Francesco Maria Piave

For tickets and information, visit SarasotaOpera.org or call the box For tickets information, visit or SarasotaOpera.org or call t For tickets andoffice information, visitand SarasotaOpera.org call the box at 941-328-1300. office at 941-328-1300. office at 941-328-1300.

CAR RAFFLE!

affle!

2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 Convertible

Virtual Drawing on Monday, March 31, 2025 at 5PM $100 per Car Raffle Entry • Only 1,750 Chances will be Sold!

ASOTAOPERACARRAFFLE CE TO WIN! of Sarasota Opera’s world-class Viewprograms. the car in person at Mercedes-Benz, Sarasota located at 4754 Clark Road, Sarasota. cation and outreach ascagni,

ci, opera ncavallo

o Rossini,

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d where prohibited. No purchase or contribution is necessary to participate in the drawing and a contribution will not increase your chances of n with the prizes are the winner’s sole responsibility. Only licensed drivers (license cannot be suspended), 18 years of age and older at time of able laws, or who makes any misrepresentations relative to this drawing. Prize winners may be required to sign an affidavit of eligibility. d by March 30, 2025 and received no later than 12:00pm ET on March 31, 2025. The Grand Prize drawing for the Sarasota Opera Association s stated in these rules may be extended in Sarasota Opera Association, Inc.’s absolute discretion. The winner does not need to be present to win. aged, destroyed, or delayed entries or postage due mail or for unavailable network connections, failed, incomplete, garbled or delayed computer f entries or entrants’ ability to participate in this drawing. To enter without a donation, send a letter stating that you wish to obtain a “no dona1 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236. Only one “no donation” entry per household. A winner’s list may be obtained by sending a stamped

VISIT: SARASOTAOPERA.ORG/CAR-RAFFLE FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

All proceeds go to support the mission of Sarasota Opera’s world-class productions, artist training, and education and outreach programs.

ELIGIBILITY: OPEN ONLY TO RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, 18 years of age and older at the time of entry. Void where prohibited. No purchase or contribution is necessary to participate in the drawing and a contribution will not increase your chances of winning. Sweepstakes sponsored by Sarasota Opera Association, inc. Employees are not eligible to enter. All taxes, title, registration fees, and like amounts in connection with the prizes are the winner’s sole responsibility. Only licensed drivers (license cannot be suspended), 18 years of age and older at time of donation are eligible to participate and enter. Sarasota Opera Association, Inc. reserves the right to disqualify any entrant for violation of these Official Rules, any applicable laws, or who makes any misrepresentations relative to this drawing. Prize winners may be required to sign an affidavit of eligibility. HOW TO ENTER AND WIN: To enter the drawing, go to sarasotaopera.org/raffle, but again, the drawing is void where prohibited. Entries by mail must be postmarked by March 30, 2025 and received no later than 12:00pm ET on March 31, 2025. The Grand Prize drawing for the Sarasota Opera Association Car Raffle will be held on March 31, 2025 drawn at random at approximately 3:00 p.m. at the Sarasota Opera Association, Inc. offices, except this date and all other dates stated in these rules may be extended in Sarasota Opera Association, Inc.’s absolute discretion. The winner does not need to be present to win. All entries become the sole property of the Sponsor and will not be returned. The Sponsor is not responsible for lost, stolen, illegible, incomplete, misdirected, late, damaged, destroyed, or delayed entries or postage due mail or for unavailable network connections, failed, incomplete, garbled or delayed computer transmissions, online Cabriolet Convertible in Polar Whitefailures, with an MSRP of $67,995. THERE SHALL BE technical NO SUBSTITUTIONS OF AUTOMOBILES; NO CASH hardware, software or other malfunctions or disturbances or other communications failures or circumstances affecting receipt of entries or entrants’ ability to participate in this drawing. To enter without a donation, send a letter stating that you wish to obtain a “no donation” entry with your name, ense), local, state and federal taxes when the car is transferred to the winner. In addition, all costs of car ownership, such as (without limitation) address number and a stamped, addressed Sarasota nd suggest you consult your tax advisor. Winnerand must phone claim prize within 30 business days of theselfofficial Grand Prizeenvelope drawing or to: a new winner Opera Association, Inc. Attn: Sarasota Opera Gala Raffle, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236. Only one “no donation” entry per household. A winner’s list may be obtained by sending a stamped self-addressed envelope to the SarasotaInc.Opera Association, Inc.fees61incurred N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, drawing and the Sarasota Opera Association, Gala. All taxes, costs, and for title and registration are FL the 34236. winner’s sole responsibility. IRS Form W-2g or 1099 will be issued to winner for the value of the prize. The IRS requires withholding estimated PRIZE/ODDS OF WINNING: Grand Prize: One Grand Prize winner will be chosen from the ticket holders. The Grand Prize winner will win a 2025 Mercedes CEL300 Cabriolet Convertible in Polar White with an MSRP of $67,995. THERE SHALL BE NO SUBSTITUTIONS OF AUTOMOBILES; NO CASH REFUNDS, AND NO OTHER ed. Odds of winning are determined by the total number of entries received, with the maximum odds of 1:1750. SUBSTITUTIONS. The Grand Prize winner and must pay allandfees andancharges (including, but not limited to, tags and license), local, state and federal taxes when the car is transferred to the winner. In addition, all costs of car ownership, such as (without limitation) insurance and delivery are the Grand Prize ner will be notified by telephone andCASH by certified letter from the Sarasota Opera Association, Inc. assumes and will be required to execute return winner’s responsibility. Sarasota Opera Association, responsibility for a prize winner’s tax obligations and suggest you consult your tax advisor. Winner must claim prize within 30 business days of the official Grand Prize drawing or a new winner will be selected. Winner need not be present to win. otification is returned as undeliverable, the prize sole will be forfeited and an alternate winner selected. By acceptingInc. the assumes prize, exceptno where prohibentrant agrees to release and hold harmless the Sarasota Association, Inc.with and their respective affiliates and subsidiaries, and the made in conjunction with this drawing and the Sarasota Opera Association, Inc. Gala. All taxes, costs, and fees incurred for title and registration are the responsibility of the winner. Winner is solely responsible for all other costs and The Sponsor willOpera acquire the prize a portion ofparents, the proceeds from the donations acceptance, possession or use/misuse of prize, regardless of whether such claims are founded in whole or part upon alleged negligence, gross liability incurred in claiming, and using the prize. All unspecified expenses and taxes the right, at their sole discretion, to disqualify any individual it finds, in its sole discretion, to be tampering with the entry process or the opera- are winner’s sole responsibility. IRS Form W-2g or 1099 will be issued to winner for the value of the prize. The IRS requires withholding estimated taxes on the winnings prior to release of the prize. No prize substitution or cash equivalent . Any activities intended to disrupt or withprize the proper play ofAthe drawing or of defraud Sponsorof inentries any way will prosecutedOdds to the of winning are determined by the total number of entries received, with the maximum odds of 1:1750. ofinterfere prize. No transfer. maximum 1750the number arebeexpected. G TO OR ARISING FROM THIS SWEEPSTAKES SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND INTERPRETED IN ACCORDANCE THE LAWSand the decisions of the Sponsor, which are final and binding in all respects. Winner will be notified by telephone and by certified letter from the Sarasota Opera Association, Inc. and will be required to execute and return an affidavit of GENERAL CONDITIONS: By entering, entrants accept and agree to theWITH Official Rules ERAL COURTS LOCATED IN Sarasota County, Florida. EACH ENTRANT AGREES TO THAT VENUE AND a liability release a publicity where legal, within 7 including, days of notification. In the event of non-compliance with requirements, or if prize notification is returned as undeliverable, the prize will be forfeited and an alternate winner selected. By accepting the prize, except where prohibited by law, winner N THOSE COURTS. LIMITATIONS eligibility, OF LIABILITY: The Sponsor is notand responsible for anyrelease, incorrect or inaccurate information, by any technical or human error which may occur the processing entries in the drawing. The Sponsor assumes no responsibilities for purposes without further compensation or notice. By participating, entrant agrees to release and hold harmless the Sarasota Opera Association, Inc. and their respective parents, affiliates and subsidiaries, and the directors, officers, agrees to thein use of his orofher name and/or photograph for advertising/publicity entries. The Sponsor is not responsible for user cheating or fraud by any entrants. If, for any reason, the drawing is not capable of running as agents and employees of any such entity (collectively, the “released parties”) from any and all liability arising from participating in the drawing and/or acceptance, possession or use/misuse of prize, regardless of whether such claims are founded in whole or part upon alleged negligence, gross negligence or willful r’ sole discretion could corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper conduct of the drawing, The Sponsor may, in misconduct of any of the released parties, and including, without limitation, liability for any personal injury, damage or loss. The Sponsor reserves the right, at their sole discretion, to disqualify any individual it finds, in its sole discretion, to be tampering with the entry process or the operation of the drawing; to be in r after, if appropriate) the action taken by The Sponsor. violation of the Official Rules, or to be acting in a disruptive manner, or with the intent to annoy, abuse, threaten or harass any other person. Any activities intended to disrupt or interfere with the proper play of the drawing or defraud the Sponsor in any way will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The drawing TRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CUSTOMER SERVICES BY CALLING is subject to all applicable laws of the United States and is void where prohibited. ANY CLAIMS OR CONTROVERSIES RELATING TO OR ARISING FROM THIS SWEEPSTAKES SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND INTERPRETED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF Florida WITHOUT REGARD TO THE CONFLICTS OF N BY THE STATE. OUR FLORIDA REGISTRATION NUMBER IS CH429 LAW PRINCIPLES THEREOF AND SHALL BE BROUGHT IN THE STATE AND FEDERAL COURTS LOCATED IN Sarasota County, Florida. EACH ENTRANT AGREES TO THAT VENUE AND JURISDICTION AND THE EXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION OF THOSE COURTS AND WAIVES ANY AND ALL OBJECTIONS TO JURISDICTION AND VENUE IN THOSE COURTS. LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: The Sponsor is not responsible for any incorrect or inaccurate information, including, without limitation, that which is caused by web site users, tampering, hacking, or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the drawing or by any technical or human error which may occur in the processing of entries in the drawing. The Sponsor assumes no responsibilities for any error, omission, interruption, deletion, or defection, delay in operation or transmission, communications line failure, theft or destruction or processing the drawing entries. The Sponsor is not responsible for user cheating or fraud by any entrants. If, for any reason, the drawing is not capable of running as planned, including, without limitation, unauthorized intervention, fraud, technical failures or any other causes beyond the control of The Sponsor which, in The Sponsor’ sole discretion could corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper conduct of the drawing, The Sponsor may, in their sole discretion, cancel the drawing and return/refund all entries or select the winner in a random drawing comprised of all eligible entries received prior to (and/or after, if appropriate) the action taken by The Sponsor. SPONSOR: Sweepstakes drawing sponsored by the Sarasota Opera Association, Inc. 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236. MISCELLANEOUS: Sarasota Opera Association, Inc. is a not-for-profit, tax-exempt corporation registered in the State of Florida. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CUSTOMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (1-800 435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE OF FLORIDA. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. OUR FLORIDA REGISTRATION NUMBER IS CH429

oetry by

the box

• s p otl i ght •

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

45 YEARS SPARCC

of Empowering Survivors and Helping Rebuild Futures

By Reno Gomez For many victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, a bright future can feel like a distant, unattainable dream. The Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) lights the way and helps guide survivors to a safer, healthier tomorrow, providing essential services to those who need it most. With 45 years of serving the community, SPARCC has played a pivotal role in healing and empowering victims across Sarasota and Desoto counties, offering shelter, counseling, in-person support in hospitals and courtrooms, legal services, and support groups. Immediate assistance is available through its year-round shelter, and across all locations, including the Downtown Sarasota outreach center, satellite offices in Venice, North Port and Arcadia, and a 24-hour crisis helpline, all at no cost to the victim. Every call is kept strictly confidential. No two stories are the same, and no one knows that better than SPARCC’s President and CEO, Jessica Hays. Since joining the organization in 2007, Hays has worked to meet the individual needs of those seeking its services. Whether support comes in the form of crisis intervention counseling, safety planning, or shelter, all cases are handled with the same level of care and importance. “We focus on what our survivors need, and how we can remove barriers to help them be safe, or overcome whatever obstacles they’re facing. Our core services—the shelter, our hotline, and our crisis intervention services—haven’t changed over the years, and, in the last seven years, the addition of legal services and housing stability have been very well received,” says Hays. JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

• insider •

As the population and needs of the community have grown, so have the services and efforts of SPARCC. An expansion of legal services, initially added in 2017, has allowed for the organization to offer specialized legal support for survivors. Services such as injunctions and family law matters are no longer unattainable or unaffordable for many of those in need. With the addition of the Housing Stability Program, SPARCC is better able to support survivors after they leave the shelter, and transition to a safe and independent living situation. Population growth into the southern parts of Sarasota County, particularly in North Port, has allowed SPARCC to grow their staff and be responsive to the needs in all service areas. Making a call to the hotline or seeking resources from the center is just the first step in the journey, and although leaving the situation may not be immediately feasible for some experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, SPARCC is there every step of the way. On average, it takes a survivor seven attempts to leave their abusive situation, and SPARCC recognizes how dangerous this time can be. Safety planning and economic empowerment is crucial in the earliest stages, but more importantly, they remind victims that they are worthy and deserving of safety.

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

• insider •

“Keeping survivors and their children safe from harm is the greatest measure of our success. Whether it’s the shelter providing a life-saving refuge or an injunction helping someone escape their abuser, each of these outcomes can be seen as the ultimate success,” says Hays. SPARCC’s tireless advocacy extends beyond the immediate crisis and into community education. Prior to becoming the President and CEO in 2015, Hays served as the Director of Community Awareness, working firsthand with volunteers, leading events and fundraisers, and overseeing education and awareness efforts. “The more we talk about domestic violence and sexual assault, the more we can support survivors. Experiencing these things doesn’t define anyone. Survivors are not weak because of it, nor did they do anything to cause these things to happen to them. It’s important to talk about these issues because the longer that something exists in silence, the more it will continue to happen.”

Through community outreach, SPARCC hopes to enact meaningful change by building on a foundation of awareness and empathy. For victims, feelings of shame and embarrassment, threats of further violence, or strong emotional ties to their abuser may keep them from leaving a situation. Equipping the community with facts about domestic violence and sexual assault, and the knowledge of resources available to victims and their children, can make a difference in the lives of those effected by violence, and break the cycle before it starts. “It’s especially important to reach young people and talk to them about healthy relationships, and how to find resources if they need them. Talking to them about some of the primary prevention topics, before they ever become a victim or a perpetrator of domestic violence or sexual assault, is really the key to ending this violence,” says Hays.

JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

• insider •

If you’re looking for ways to help, SPARCC makes getting involved easy. Making a donation through the organization’s website (sparcc.net) is the best and most direct way to show your support. Volunteer opportunities are available after specialized training, or by joining the SPARCC Auxiliary team to plan fundraising and awareness events. For a more hands-on approach, volunteers are always needed to staff SPARCC Treasure Chest, a resale shop that helps fund SPARCC’s free programs and services. Responsibilities may include accepting donations, pricing items, sales, and more. The Treasure Chest welcomes donations of gently used furniture, clothing and household items.

Monthly events are open to the public to attend, and tickets are available on the website (sparcc.net/events). Upcoming events include: Scramble for SPARCC: A fun day of golf! Monday, February 3, 2025 at 11:30 AM SPARCC Runway Fashion Show: A luncheon and runway fashion show featuring items from SPARCC Treasure Chest. Friday, March 28, 2025 at 10 AM Spring Celebration Luncheon: A celebration of SPARCC Auxiliary and the success of the season’s fundraising events. Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at 11 AM 2139 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34237 - (941) 365-0208 24-Hour Helpline: (941) 365-1976 84

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

• insider •

educationmatters GETTING A HEAD START WITH CHILDREN FIRST By Reno Gomez

Since 1961, Children First has been guided by a mission that puts families first. Serving as the exclusive provider of Head Start and Early Head Start services for Sarasota County, Children First is committed to providing a core foundation for every child. With a focus on education, nutrition, health, and wellness, children are empowered with the tools they need to thrive in school. Early education allows children to build critical learning and social skills. Parents and caregivers are also given tools and resources to support their child’s education while working towards their own goals. Children First ensures all children have access to opportunities, closing the gaps of poverty and setting them on a path for lifelong success. Pregnant mothers, infants as young as six weeks, and toddlers up to three years old start their early education journey with the Early Head Start Program. This program promotes healthy prenatal outcomes and enhances the development of infants and toddlers. Parents with children in this same age group may also benefit from the Early

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

Care and Education program, which provides childcare to families who are working, or in school, at select locations throughout the county. Once a child has aged out of the Early Head Start Program, the next step is enrollment in the cornerstone program of Children First, Head Start. This program, serving children ages three to five years old, focuses on school readiness. Through exploration, interaction, exercise, and play that stimulates the imagination, children learn the social, emotional, and cognitive skills they need to succeed in kindergarten and beyond. Like the Early Head Start Program, Head Start services are for families who live at or below the Federal Poverty Level. Families may still be eligible for services based on other criteria, such as a child with a diagnosed disability. The team of Early Learning Inclusion Coordinators (ELIC) support children with a range of disabilities, which can include, but are not limited to, developmental delays, autism, and sensory processing disorders. On-site therapies, such as speech therapy and occupational therapy, are

• insider •

First ever graduates from Nurturing Dads program in 1999.

available, while partnerships with other service providers ensures children receive the support they need in fully inclusive classroom environments. Since being awarded grantee status for Head Start in Sarasota County in 1994, Children First has grown and expanded over the last three decades. While the core services are consistent across locations, certain programs may be tailored to meet the specific needs of the communities they serve. For example, the Teen Parent Program is available at Riverview High School and North Port High. School, providing specialized support for young parents. Partnerships with community organizations, such as Our Mother’s House in Venice, allow Children First to extend its reach and offer services in collaboration with other agencies. Children First also offers summer programming to ensure that the academic and social gains made during a school year are not compromised or lost. After graduation from Children First, students and families may be eligible for continued support through Children First’s RISE Program at Emma E. Booker Elementary School. Students in kindergarten through fifth grade receive weekly, one-on-one literacy support with a volunteer mentor during the school day. Families also receive family JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

• insider •

advocacy services to support their child’s education. The award-winning Families First Institute, which offers classes to parents and caregivers at no cost, was launched in December 1999 with the Nurturing Dads Initiative. Thanks to support from Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation and other generous donors, the Family Strengthening program continues to expand. The agency’s eight-week courses include English for Speakers of Other Languages, Budgeting & Family Finances, Job Skills Training, the Parent Training Program, Circle of Security Parenting, Positive Solutions for Families, and Tools for Being a Great Dad. Single course sessions are also available, and all courses are available in Spanish. Appointed as President & CEO of Children First in 1996, Philip Tavill will be celebrating his 29th anniversary next month. Throughout his tenure, Tavill has helped countless families navigate the unique stressors of poverty. Recognizing the limitations of food, childcare, and language barriers, the team at Children First continues to adapt solutions to improve the services they provide. “When you bring your child to a center every day, it becomes like your second home. If you can have childcare for not only the children in our program, but for any child you have, and you and your children are going to be fed dinner, suddenly taking advantage of a family strengthening or parenting course becomes viable,” says Tavill. 88

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• insider •

Through Women’s Eyes Featuring

The Green Room Films Exploring Our Climate

In theaters and online

March 6-11, 2025 Getting involved in Children First and supporting the future of Sarasota County’s children is easy. The Today a Reader, Tomorrow a Leader book drive, spearheaded by volunteer Sheila Birnbaum, kicks off on February 1, 2025. Donations of new books for children ages 5 and under will be distributed to the families enrolled with Children First, as well as the agency’s local nonprofit and education partners. Children First hopes to continue to highlight the importance of literacy following the success of the 2024 drive, and the nearly 1,400 books

Tickets and info

ThroughWomensEyes.org

distributed. The book drive will run through March 31, 2025, and all donations can be mailed or dropped off to the main Children First campus. Donors may choose to designate a monetary gift through the Children First website. For a more hands-on approach, volunteers can engage directly with children and families by assisting in classrooms or participating in special events. Financial contributions through monetary donations help sustain and expand programs that serve the community’s most vulnerable children and families. Attending or sponsoring events that raise essential funds and awareness for Children First’s initiatives offer a fun way to engage and connect with like-minded community members.

F OR M OR E I N F OR M ATI ON

on Children First, visit childrenfirst.net or call 941.953.3877. JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

Joylyn Rushing & JoAnna Pope

Maestro Victor DeRenzi

Arthur Siciliano, Aline Blanchard John Suhre & Carla Koeffler

Richard Russell

partypics SARASOTA OPERA MOONLIGHT & MELODIES DINNER

Barry & Diane Kirschenbaum

On Saturday, November 16, guests gathered at the historic Sarasota Opera House in downtown Sarasota for the first Moonlight & Melodies dinner of the season, Dinner in Parma with Verdi. The evening started with a cocktail reception followed by a seated dinner under the stars. The meal, catered by Pier 22, featured offerings from composer Giuseppe Verdi’s hometown of Parma, Italy. Photos by Janet Combs.

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

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Nate Jacobs, John Knowles, Donald Frison

WBTT MOTOWN CHRISTMAS OPENING NIGHT + RECEPTION

Marilyn Manselle & Faye Manselle

Every year Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe presents a special holiday themed prroduction and this year’s show, A Motown Christmas, opened on the main stage. Patrons were dancing in their seats and singing along to a variety of holiday tunes with a Motown twist. After the performance, attendees enjoyed an opening night reception catered by Rosemary and Thyme, kicking off the start to the holiday season. Photos by Nancy Guth

Sheba Matheu & Amina Matheu

Ruthanne & David Koffman with Beth Wexler 92

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Delores McKenzie & Michael Mendez

Jessica Hays

Kimberley Pelyk, Shirley Wolf, E-Dee Murphy, Mary Ellen Mancini, Joan Castellani

Bart & Kameron Hodgens

SPARCCLE: A STARRY NIGHT SOIREE GALA SPARCC recently celebrated its 45th Sapphire Anniversary at the highly anticipated SPARCCle: A Starry Night Soiree gala, held on November 16, 2024, at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. The enchanting evening featured a cocktail reception, a three-course dinner, live musical entertainment, and thrilling live auctions. Photos by Nancy Guth. Barbara & Tom Gardner

Astronaut Molly Jennis has embarked on an interplanetary expedition following her husband’s tragic, failed attempt to reach Mars. As the first to the Red Planet, she faces not only the dangers of solitude and the unknown frontier, but also the haunting reflections of her past decisions. SPACEMAN is a weightless, fullsensory, surround-sound exploration of both the challenges of space travel and the uncharted future that awaits Molly at her Martian destination

PLAYING AT URBANITE THEATRE JAN 3-FEB 16, 2025

urbanitetheatre.com/spaceman JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

Women in Philanthropy Inaugural Event

On December 7, a celebration for the 12 inaugural Women in Philanthropy honorees was held at the residence of the Honorable Katherine Harris. This event, a year in the making, welcomed guests to the elegant 18th century-styled home on Sarasota Bay. Highlights included specialty cocktails from Beauty Booze, live violin music, a gourmet dinner from Simply Gourmet by Metz, dancing under the stars with a ten-piece band, performances by The Sarasota Cuban Ballet draped in couture provided by The Met, and an after party featuring a Martini and Coffee Bar with a Cigar Lounge provided by Corona Cigar Co. and So Staged. Founded in 2023 by Katherine Harris, Margaret Wise, Creative Director Tatyana Stewart, and Communications Director Dayle Hoffmann, the organization’s purpose is to “Honor Women Philanthropists, Inspire Generations and Enhance Communities.” A single live auction bid for $50K to assist local hurricane relief efforts, swag bags and gifts from premier sponsor UBS, and a 2025 calendar featuring the12 honorees from Palm Printing, completed this incredible evening. For more information about Women in Philanthropy, please visit www.womeninphilanthropyofsarasota.com

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

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ja n 2 0 2 5 | PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR AR TIS T SERIES CONCER T S

E NSE M B LE NE W SRQ

941.306.1200 / artistseriesconcerts.org Aznavoorian Sisters January 7 Violinist to the Stars January 14 Next Generation: Fleiss & Lin January 26-27

ensrq.org Visions & Miracles January 13

941.366.9000 / floridastudiotheatre.org Reel Laughs Through January 11 Off the Charts! Through February 9 The Heart Sellers Through February 16 59th Street Bridge Through March 30

F O G A R T Y CO M M UNIT Y M E DIA & A R T S C E NT E R

Asolo Rep

ASOL O REPER T ORY THEATRE 941.351.8000 / asolorep.org Beautiful: The Carole King Musical Through January 5 Ken Ludwig’s Lady Molly of Scotland Yard January 17 - February 8

CHORAL AR TIS T S OF S ARAS O TA 941.387.6046 / choralartistssarasota.org Gilbert & Sullivan Revue January 26

CIRCU S AR T S CONSER VAT ORY 941.556.5349 / circusarts.org Wonderland Presents: Illuminate Through January 5 Windjammers Unlimited Circus Band January 12

DIVERSIT Y: THE V OICES OF S A R A SO TA 888.550.6279 / diversitysarasota.org St. Mark’s Friends of Music Concert Series January 15

Artist Series Concerts 96

FLO RIDA S T UDIO T HE AT RE

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941.894.6469/wslr.org/fogartyville John Prine’s Tribute Show January 4 Ray Bonneville January 10 Payadora January 11 David Wilcox January 12 Donald Harrison January 16 Claudia Schmidt with Brian Smalley January 17 King Margo January 18 Tray Wellington Band January 19 Twisted Pine January 23 Joe Pug January 24 Florida Studio Theatre

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941.955.8404 • 1572 Main St., Sarasota www.DrunkenPoetCafeSRQ.com

G UITA R S A RA SO TA 941.260.3306 / guitarsarasota.org Marko Topchii January 11

ISL A ND P L AY E RS 941.778.5755 / islandplayers.org Birthday Suite January 9-26

K E Y C HO RA LE 941.552.8768 / keychorale.org American Roots: Storytellers January 18-19

LE M O N B AY P L AY HO USE 941.921.4845/lemonbayplayhouse.com Comedy Show: Its Another Funny Year January 11 McCurdy's

Art to Wear Clothing, Jewelry and Accessories

Wearable Art Shop 433 N. Orange Ave. Sarasota, FL 34236 941.487.8564 wearableartshop.com 98

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TRADITIONAL • TRANSITIONAL • CONTEMPORARY

M A N AT E E P E RF O RMING A R T S CE N T E R

“Exceptional carpets for thosewho refuse to compromise”

941.749.1111/ manateeperformingartscenter.com Tootsie January 16-26 Steel Magnolias January 23 - February 2

M C C U RDY ’ S CO M E DY THEATRE 941.925.3869/ mccurdyscomedy.com Dale Jones January 2-6 Jeff Dye January 10-11 Hey Jesus: Ellen Skrmetti January 14 Humor Institute Class Performance January 15 Paul Ollinger January 16-19 Music Monday: John Kadlecik January 20 Bobby Collins January 24-25 Drag Queen Bingo Extravaganza January 26 Paul Farahvar January 26, 29, 30 Open Bar Comedy January 28

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NEEL PERF O R M ING A R T S C E NT E R 941.752.5252 / scf.edu/neel The Best of the Best with SCF Student Artists January 16 Fleetwood Gold: The Fleetwood Mac Experience January 17 Elvis Double Trouble Featuring Elvis Cote Deonath & Matt Stone January 25

THE S ARASO TA B A LLE T 941.359.0099 / sarasotaballet.org Meet Me at the Barre January 15 P4: Quintessential January 31 - February 3

S ARASO TA CO NC E R T A SSO C IAT IO N 941.365.2494 / scasarasota.org Pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet January 15 The Cleveland Orchestra January 26

S ARASO TA J E WISH T HE AT RE 941.225.6500 / sarasotajewishtheatre.com Visiting Mr. Green January 29 - February 9

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

S A R A SO TA O P E RA 941.928.1300 / sarasotaopera.org Discovery Series #2: Mozart on the Road (Sarasota Orchestra) January 5 PMP Winter Residency Concert January 11

S A R A SO TA O RC HE S T RA 941.953.4252 / sarasotaorchestra.org Discovery Series #2: Mozart on the Road January 5 Classical Conversations 3: Ravel’s Bolero January 10-12 TV Tunes & Treasures January 15-19 Kings of Soul January 24-25 Heroic Spirit January 30 - February 2

UR B A NIT E T HE AT RE 941.321.1397 / urbanitetheatre.com Spaceman January 3 - February 16

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Sarasota Jewish Theatre

VAN W E ZE L P E R F ORMING AR T S HAL L 941.953.3368 / vanwezel.org Menopause the Musical January 4 The Greatest Love of All: A Tribute to Whitney Houston January 5 Funny Girl January 14, 17 Frankie Avalon January 21 Yacht Rock Revue January 23 New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players January 27

VE N I CE P E RF O RMING AR T S CENTER 941.218.3779 / veniceperformingartscenter.com The Texas Tenors January 4 Sports Orchestrated January 10-11 Chris Collins & Boulder Canyon: John Denver Tribute January 19 Venice Concert Band: All My Favorites January 20 Shen Yun January 25-26

VE N I CE T H E AT RE 941.218.3779 / venicetheatre.org Uptown January 6 Don’t Touch That Dial January 17 - February 9 The Third Annual Showtime Benefit January 18 Love is a Rose: A Linda Ronstadt Tribute January 20

WE S T COAS T B L ACK TH E AT RE T RO UPE 941.366.1505 / westcoastblacktheatre.org A Motown Christmas Though January 5 Fences January 15 - February 23 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebrating His Legacy in Spoken Word & Song January 19

V IS IT S C E N E S A R A S O TA . CO M for a calendar of performances and events. To submit a performance for listing consideration, please email publisher@scenesarasota.com

JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

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artscene

ja n 2 0 2 5 | VISUAL ARTS CALENDAR

AR T CE N TER S ARASO TA

CLYDE B UT C HE R G A LLE RY

HA RM O NY G A LLE RY

941.365.2032 / artsarasota.org E.A. Kahane Ermin Tabakovic Keenan Perren Juried Show: Trompe L’oeil Through January 18

941.486.0811 / clydebutcher.com Visions of Florida, Daytona Beach Through March 2, 2025

941.953.4252 / sarasotaorchestra.org/about/ community/harmony-gallery Booker High School Student Exhibit Through January 30

CREATURO G A LLE RY

ISL A ND G A LLE RY & S T UDIO S

941.953.6163/ creaturogallery.com Art Walks Every First Friday January 3

941.778.6648 / islandgallerywest.artspan.com Charlotte Sorsen: Beachy Breezes Through January 30

CREATIV E LIB E R T IE S

LIG O N FINE A R T G A LLE RY A N N EX @C LIV E | DA NIE L HO M E DES I G N

AR T CE N T ER MAN ATEE 941.746.2862 / artcentermanatee.org Women Contemporary Artists American Watercolor Society 157th Traveling Exhibition Roots & Reflections Through Memory & Nature Denise Cormier Mahoney January 2-24

CH AS E N GAL L ERY 941.260.5787 / chasengalleries.com Glass Works by Renato Foti January 3, 23 Sarasota Symphony of Colors January Exhibition

10 2

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

941.799.6634 / creativeliberties.net ARCOS Opening Reception at 340 Central Avenue January 16 Family Art Day at 927 N Lime Avenue January 25

EMBRAC ING O UR DIFFE RE NC E S 941.404.5710 / embracingourdifferences.org 2025 Exhibition, Bayfront Park January 19 - April 13

832.361.0308 / angelaligonart.com Jozef Batko Oil on Canvas Pascal Benichou Oil on Canvas Duncan Chamberlain Mixed Media Sculpture

M A R A A R T S T UDIO + G A LLE RY 941.914.8110 / marastudiogallery.com Opposites Attract January 3-28

• a r t s + c u lt u r e •

ENTERTAINING INFORMATIVE

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$5 Of Every Ticket Will Be Donated To The Arts And Cultural Alliance Of Sarasota County

MA R IE SE LBY BO TA NIC AL GARD E N S 941.366.5731 / selby.org Patti Smith: A Book of Days Through August 31

N O R T H P O R T AR T CE N TER 941.423.6460 / northportartcenter.,org Members Choice Reception January 18

PA L M AV E N UE F I N E AR T 941.388.7526 / palmavenuefineart.com European Romance January 10-19 George Bodine January 17-19 Echoes of Sarasota: A Historical Preservation January 24 - February 2

R INGL ING M US E UM 941.359.5700 / ringling.org Shinique Smith: Parade Through January 5

Jess T. Dugan: I want you to know my story Through February 25 Radical Clay: Contemporary Women Artists from Japan Through May 11 Skyway 2024: A Contemporary Collaboration Through January 26 Enduring Light Through February 9

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S ARASO TA AR T MU SEUM 941.309.4300 / sarasotaartmuseum.org Tammy Nguyễn: Timaeus and the Nations Through January 19 Claire Ashley: Chromatic Blush Through January 19 Molly Hatch: Amalgam Through April 26

Luxury Real Estate

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stephanie.seacat@cbrealty.com JANUARY 2025 | SARASOTA SCENE

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• i n h e alt h •

The Gentle Art of Caregiving Etiquette for Compassionate Care

In today’s fast-paced world, the role of caregivers has become increasingly essential. Dedicated individuals provide invaluable support to those in need of home care whether it’s clients with disabilities, recovering from an illness or in need of long-term care. Caregiving is a noble profession that requires a unique blend of skills to ensure that caregivers are equipped with the highest level of knowledge and skills. VIP Etiquette program has become a powerful addition to our required training. VIP, which stands for Very Important Person, is a specialized training approach focusing on treating clients with the utmost respect and dignity. The importance of effective communication with one’s patient and compassionate attitude. Etiquette training is not just about knowing which fork to use or how to address a formal letter. It’s about cultivating a sense of respect, empathy, and consideration of others. Why Etiquette Training Matters in Caregiving: 1. Enhanced professional image: good manners and etiquette can make a lasting impression on clients. It demonstrates your professionalism, reliability, and ability to interact with others in a positive manner. 2. Stronger Patient Relationships: VIP training fosters empathy and understanding enabling caregivers to build stronger bonds with their patients, leading to improved emotional wellbeing for both the client and the caregiver. 3. Communication Skills: effective communication is essential for building trust and understanding with clients and families. 4. Increased Confidence: learning proper etiquette can boost your self-confidence. 5. Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and respecting diverse cultural backgrounds is essential for providing inclusive care.

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SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

Nicci Lieberman, President Youthtful Aging Home Health Care 941.925.9532 youthfulaginghomecare.com 5602 Marquesas Cir #105, Sarasota, FL 34233

h e a lt h & w e ll n e s s

Key Etiquette Tips for Caregivers •

•

Respectful Communication: • Use polite language and avoid using jargon or technical terms that clients may not understand. • Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. • Listen attentively and respond thoughtfully. • Avoid gossip and negative talk. Personal Hygiene: • Maintain good personal hygiene, including regular bathing and clean clothing. • Wear appropriate attire that is clean and modest. • Practice proper hand hygiene to prevent the spread of germs. Privacy and Dignity: • Knock before entering a client’s room and ask permission to enter. • Respect a client’s privacy, especially during personal care tasks. • Use gentle touch and avoid rushing. Confidentiality: • Keep client information confidential and avoid discussing personal details with others. • Adhere to HIPAA regulations and other privacy laws.

By incorporating etiquette training into your professional development, caregivers can elevate the quality of care they provide. By practicing good manners, respecting boundaries, and communicating effectively, caregivers can create a positive and supportive environment for their clients.

• a r t s + c u lt u r e •

meet the performer

Hak Soo Kim Korean-American tenor Hak Soo Kim recently completed his second-year of residence as a Domingo-Thornton Young Artist at LA Opera, where he made his company debut as Remendado in Carmen. In his debut season at LA Opera, he also sang the roles of First Priest in Die Zauberflöte and Gastone in La traviata; in the latter he also covered the role of Alfredo.

he played the roles of Ernesto in Don Pasquale and Don Ramiro in La Cenerentola. In addition, he participated in the Apprentice Singer concert at Santa Fe Opera as Matteo in Arabella and Lysander in A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

In his second season, he performed as Conte Almaviva in the student matinee performance of Il barbiere di Siviglia and as A Youth in the American debut of Schreker’s Die Gezeichneten under the baton of James Conlon. He also covered the role of Nemorino in L’elisir d’amore in the beginning of the season.

As a concert artist, he made his Ravinia Festival debut at Borsa in Rigoletto with Chicago Symphony Orchestra, appeared in a zarzuela concert under the direction of Plácido Domingo, and was the tenor soloist in Stravinsky’s Les Noces with Monmouth Civic Chorus. Kim has received many awards and grants, including those at the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, The Loren L. Zachary National Vocal Competition, Opera Buffs, and Pasadena Opera Guild. He is a student of Dr. Julian Kwok.

Kim graduated from Northwestern University with a BA in German and wrote his thesis on German postunification literature at Eberhard Karls Universität in Tübingen, Germany. While at Northwestern University, he sang Fenton in Falstaff and Rinuccio in Gianni Schicchi. As a member of Opera Colorado Outreach Ensemble,

In 2010, Kim debuted with Sarasota Opera as Don Ramiro in La Cenerentola. Since then, he has played the rols of Lindoro in Italiana in Algeri (2017), Ernesto in Don Pasquale (2016), and Conte Almaviva in Barbiere (2014). This season, don’t miss Kim as Conte Almaviva in Il Barbiere di Siviglia. For tickets. please visit sarasotaopera.org.

10 6

SARASOTA SCENE | JANUARY 2025

Photo by Sorcha Augustine.

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