June 2013

SARASOTA | MANATEE

M AGA ZI N E

EDUCATION ISSUE Empowering Teens:

Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

The Spectacular Educational Programs of

Circus Sarasota

All Around Excellence: Saint Stephens Episcopal School

EdExplore SRQ

JUNE 2013 $3.95 U.S.

Kindergarten Lessons Learned

P LY M O U T H H A R B O R

THE PLACE TO PURSUE LIFE’S PASSIONS Originally from Florida’s East Coast, Lyn and Joe Deglman found the upkeep on their house in Longboat Key kept them from the many activities they enjoyed. They decided to trade lawn care and home maintenance for the freedom of condo living at Plymouth Harbor. Their new home, built to their specifications, even includes a custom doorway to accommodate an ornate rounded door and a faux fireplace and mantel that they brought with them from three previous homes.

Both continue to work, as well as volunteer, while enjoying the friendships they have cultivated in the vibrant community at Plymouth Harbor. An expert

in clock care and repair, Joe keeps regular office hours at his clock shop in Sarasota, while Lyn, a retired school psychologist, works part-time at a CPA firm. Keeping their hand in daily business and engagement with the community is their passion. Plymouth Harbor is their home and they delight in the lifestyle they have discovered in this lively community.

When quality of life, smart planning and the freedom to pursue passions and new interests are top priorities, Plymouth Harbor is the wise choice.

Call us today for a tour of our award-winning campus, luxury accommodations and amenities.

Sarasota’s First Choice in Continuing Care Retirement Communities

700 John Ringling Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34236 • (941) 365-2600 • www.PlymouthHarbor.org A Not-For-Profit Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). OIR #88039

COMING SOON! A MASterpIeCe Of MASter plANNING ANd

Elegant

lIvING.

ExEcutivE & EstatE HomEs fRom The $300s -$600s UP To 5 BedRoomS • NeaRly 4,000 Sq. fT. This extraordinary, picturesque setting is the perfect backdrop for two of Lennar’s newest and most exciting collections of grand, estate-inspired homes. Punctuated by an enviable location just minutes from the Sarasota shore, Bridgewater is dedicated to those who understand sophisticated living and casual elegance.

Where people come to play!

Lakewood Ranch is a master plan of resort-style living with world-class ammenities for virtually every hour of the day!

Championship golf • Resort pools with kids’ area Tennis & fitness centers • Trails & sports campus Spa with sauna, steam & massage • Shopping & dining Planned events, tournaments & more Directions: I-75 to exit 213 (University Parkway) towards Sarasota, east to community on right.

• 888-214-1674 Stated square footages are approximate and should not be used as representation of the home’s precise or actual size. Prices subject to change. Copyright © 2013 Lennar Corporation. Lennar, the Lennar logo and Everything’s Included Home are registered service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. CGC 1507191. 5/13

Bringing out the

Distinctive Beauty

in every home they touch.

By DAVE MIZE There’s a level of excitement customers feel when they step inside the showroom of Distinctive Surfaces of Florida.

It’s a place where they can expect to find endless possibilities and inspiration on how to transform dull, ordinary countertops into functional centerpieces that will add a touch of style to any kitchen, bathroom or outdoor space.

The owners of Distinctive Surfaces, Michael and Christina Beasley share in this excitement. It’s part of the reason they’ve been in business for over 20 years, expanding their business to four spectacular showrooms throughout Florida. Helping customers isn’t just a part of their job, it’s their passion. They like to ask questions, make recommendations and dare homeowners to try something new, unexpected and brave.

From the stunning natural look of precious stone to innovative surfaces offering the ultimate functionality, Distinctive Surfaces showrooms feature over $1 million of inventory – each piece of stone more beautiful and unique than the last, and all at surprisingly affordable prices.

An eye for detail. A passion for perfection.

Once you’ve decided on the look that’s right for your home or office, the highly trained craftsmen of Distinctive Surfaces will transform your kitchen, bathroom or outdoor entertainment area into a timeless work of art. They also listen to your ideas and suggestions, making sure you’re an integral part of the process – all while working tirelessly to offer fast turnaround times and flawless results.

This reputation for excellence has earned Distinctive Surfaces a loyal customer base, ranging from the most discriminative homeowners to some of the most well known brands in the world, including Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Within the industry, they are the preferred vendor of clients such as Home Depot, Arthur Rutenberg Homes and Lee Wetherington Homes, among others.

To learn more about giving any space a distinctive touch, from initial design through installation, call 941-377-7747 or visit www.dsiflorida.com to schedule a free consultation and estimate.

Eat. Drink. Love. Live.

Cooking a meal… soaking in a hot bath… sharing a glass of wine at the end of a busy day. Make life’s small moments matter with the luxurious beauty of natural solid surfaces suited to your unique style.

Whether all-out opulence or sheer simplicity, our expert fabricators and installers will bring a fresh sense of spaciousness to any size home. Visit www.dsiflorida.com or call 941.377.7747.

Granite ~ Corian® ~ Zodiaq® ~ HanStone™ ~ Silestone® ~ Natural Wood

Scanappour TAGphone to Get the free mobile for your visit our website. http:/ / gettag.mobi

941.377.7747 ~ www.dsiflorida.com | 8272 Vico Court ~ Sarasota, FL 34240 (off Fruitville Road) Sarasota ~ Tampa ~ Tallahassee ~ Ft. Myers

Education June 2013 Volume 56 No. 6

36 THE CIRCUS ARTS EDUCATIONAL TRAINING OF CIRCUS SARASOTA

36

By Sue Cullen

40 PLANTING FIRM ROOTS Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee

By Sue Cullen

44 ALL AROUND EXCELLENCE Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School

By Sue Cullen

48 IS YOUR KID A SCREENAGER? Options to Keep Kids Active, Healthy & Happy

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

40

50 EXPLORING BRIGHT FUTURES A Look at EdExplore SRQ

53 ALL I REALLY NEED TO KNOW I FORGOT FROM KINDERGARTEN

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

63 2012/2013 SHOWSTOPPERS Social Season Photo Highlights Photos by Cliff Roles

44

50

ABOUT THE COVER Cover photo of Brandon Ikeman (pictured left; Jewish Federation), Spencer Nora (pictured middle; Saint Stephens Episcopal School) and Khera Smith (pictured right; Circus Sarasota) by Herb Booth/Booth Studios.

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Stuart J. Roth Founder and President

Salt & Light Productions is nationally acclaimed for its outstanding multi-media presentations and is the recipient of 2 Emmy and 34 Telly Awards.

Salt & Light Radio WITH

Stuart J. Roth

Saturdays at Noon

WSRQ

1220 AM/106.9 FM

Our production team provides high-definition photography of interviews and supporting video, topic research, script writing, editing, voice actors and graphics. For further information on how we can help your organization unleash its full potential, please contact Patty Dodson at 941.487.4061.

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

www.saltandlightproductions.org

DEPARTMENTS

28

23 EVENTS CALENDAR SOCIALS

18 CVA Hall of Fame Luncheon 20 Children First Gala 21 SCF Evening Under the Stars 27 The Guardian Retirement Championship at Sara Bay 30 • 12th Annual SMHF Grand Rounds Golf Tournament • CasAntica Wine Dinner

26 PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR 28 YARA’S WAY Beyond Limits

56

By Yara Shoemaker

32 CULTURE MATTERS The Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

34 GIVING MATTERS Bullish on Education – Angie Brewer

By Steven J. Smith

56 SCENES FROM AN INTERVIEW Dr. Arthur Guilford: A Southern Gentleman and a Scholar

By Gus Mollasis

61 EDUCATION MATTERS 2013 Sarasota Regional Science, Engineering & Technology Fair and Awards Ceremony

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

73 BEHIND THE SCENE Society Maven Debbi Benedict Gives the Latest Scoop

By Debbi Benedict

77 STORIES OF JOY

61

The People and Passion Behind Community Philanthropy

By Joy Weston

79 LITERARY SCENE

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

81 HEALTH MATTERS Less Pain, More Gain: Hysterectomies & Robotic Surgery

By A. (Jothi) Jothivijayarani, M.D., Blake Medical Center

82 SCENE LOCALLY News Shaping Our Community

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Family

is Life.

Enjoy it to the Fullest.

Laurel Oak

T H E PR E M I E R FA M I LY C O U N T RY C LU B

Member-owned since 1999, at Laurel Oak you will find very warm, welcoming, and friendly members. With abundant natural beauty teeming with wildlife, the Club’s many amenities include 36 holes of championship golf, 12 Har Tru tennis courts, a junior Olympic-size pool and a 45,000 sq ft clubhouse.

Whether you play golf or tennis, or like to socialize, dine and party with friends in a warm and inviting environment, we have a membership plan for your lifestyle. In addition to our retired members, there are many young families at Laurel Oak, giving the Club a very energetic, highly participatory membership with many family-oriented events throughout the year.

We invite you for a Club tour anytime or take advantage of our try-us-out membership, designed to allow you to experience Laurel Oak Country Club, with virtually all the privileges of a full member, before making the commitment to full membership.

Call today for your personal tour. Enjoy family and life to the fullest at Laurel Oak.

Secure your spot in one of Sarasota’s finest family country clubs.

Call Today for a Try-Us-Out Membership.

941-378-3399 2700 Gary Player Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34240 www.laureloak.com A Private Club

Inviting. Inspired. Incomparable.

FROM THE EDITOR

I

Fresh Ingredients from Pan to Plate Try Our New Truffle Tasting Menu

have a few faint memories of my kindergarten graduation, pink cheeks, cap and gown

and all. Yes, I wore a cap and

gown

at

kindergarten

graduation – it was big deal.

I remember well my eighth grade pimples

graduation and

thick

with

my

glasses.

However, my high school graduation I can barely recall. I wonder why? That one was a blur even through my hard contact lenses.

Couldn’t wait to be an adult perhaps? By the time college graduation came, I was excited to enter the work force and become a real adult.

Little did I realize that these were such treasured times. I was in such a hurry to grow up; I didn’t thoroughly enjoy the process. I was a kid in the 1960s. It was a time when President John F. Kennedy started the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and my school was part of the core group of almost a quarter of a million schoolchildren who participated in the fitness projects for the 1961-1962 school year. At the end of the year, I happily passed the physical fitness test and got my round orange felt award. Wow. That was about it for extra-curricular activities other than the softball team I played on for the Catholic Youth Organization. Seven years later Woodstock happened and no matter where you were in your teen years, you were grown up whether you were ready or not.

In this, our Education issue, I am admitting to a bit of pea green envy as SCENE features students who are enjoying each and every moment, experiencing fascinating and fun things, while being prepared for their future. From the well-rounded curriculum at Saint Stephens Episcopal School, to the educational and outreach programs of the Jewish Federation and Circus Sarasota, things are much different for the students of today. Educational and physical programs that encourage confidence, self-esteem, and discipline are abound through various fun and engaging outlets that educators in my era didn’t even know we needed to focus on. It’s all great stuff.

If you are looking to better prepare your children or grandchildren to thrive in the today’s fast paced world, you can learn much from this issue. Our children were born in a time of even greater challenges than those of my generation and our community has the answers to help them face those challenges in the best possible way. Don’t let your children be “screenagers” (see Ryan Van Cleave’s article “Is Your Kid a Screenager” in this issue). Take action. Let’s lead the way and teach our children that there is so much more to life than texting, Facebook,

5104 Ocean Blvd. | Siesta Key 941-349-1423 | cafegabbiano.com

Twitter and the like.

Open Daily 4pm-10pm.

Four course wine pairing menu Sunday - Thursday.

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INTRODUCING AN EXCEPTIONAL NOT-FOR-PROFIT CARE FACILITY...

NOW ACCEPTING MEDICARE!

Whether you need Skilled Nursing care or you need to “Bounce Back” after a major illness or trauma, the unique, not-for-profit facility that is Hawthorne Village of Sarasota provides high quality healthcare & a full range of rehabilitative therapies.

CALL FOR YOUR PERSONAL TOUR 5381 Desoto Road | Sarasota, FL 34235 | 941.355.6111 | www.hawthornevillageofsarasota.com “Like” Us On Facebook

License # SNF130471051

EOE

LOCALLY OWNED, OPERATED & PRINTED FOR MORE THAN 56 YEARS CEO/Publisher:

Ronald Milton

Executive Editor:

Julie A. Milton

V.P. Sales & Business Development Art Director: Editorial Assistant:

Dan Downey Michelle Cross Cheryl Galbraith

Special Issue Director: Debbi Benedict Distribution: Contributing Writers:

Dick Jackson Debbi Benedict Sue Cullen Gus Mollasis Yara Shoemaker Steven J. Smith Ryan G. Van Cleave Joy Weston

Photographers: Herb Booth Keith Millard Cliff Roles Address Phone

7269 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34241 941-365-1119

Fax 941-954-5067 Website www.scenesarasota.com SCENE Magazine publishes 12 issues a year by RJM Ventures, LLC. Address editorial, advertising and circulation correspondence to the above address. Sufficient return postage and self-addressed, stamped envelope must accompany all manuscripts, art work and photographs submitted if they are to be returned or acknowledged. Publisher assumes no responsibility for care of return of unsolicited materials.

Subscription price: $12.95 per year, $19.95 for two years. All contents copyrighted. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. ISSN 1535-8895.

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

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Impeccable Style, Outstanding Performance

With performance, styling and craftsmanship, every owner is making a big impression with their one-of-a-kind customized yacht. Using only the highest quality materials, we handcraft each Jupiter boat to the owner’s exact specifications.

As a premium semi-custom manufacturer for over 35 years, your boat will have the unique fit and finish of the finest offshore sport fishing boat on the water with all the creature-comforts you’d expect on a luxury yacht...Go ahead, show it off!

POWERED BY

26’ FS/T

30’ FS/T

32’ FS/T/CUDDY

34’ FS/T

38’ FS/T/CUDDY

41’ EXPRESS

For more information, contact Jupiter Marine at 941.729.5000 or visit www.JupiterMarine.com

SOCIAL

CVA Hall of Fame Luncheon The 23rd Annual CVA Video Premiere Luncheon delighted a capacity crowd at Michael’s on East where four new honorees were inducted in the CVA Hall of Fame, a very prestigious honor. Video clips of their biographies were shown and each honoree gave a brief emotional expression of gratitude. The 2013 CVA honorees are: Isabel Scott Norton, President of R.I.N Investments and volunteer extraordinaire for numerous significant community organizations; Charles Huisking, retired after 33 years as an award-winning Sarasota Herald Tribune arts and entertainment journalist and now a major philanthropist to local nonprofits; Nate Jacobs, Founder and Artistic Director of the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, which has delighted community audiences for more than 25 years, while training and nurturing young performers; and, Janice Zarro, former international attorney, now Executive Director of the Women’s Resource Center of Sarasota County. Under her leadership WRC has grown enormously, providing needed strategies for women and their families.

Photos by Cliff Roles

Roberta MacDonald & Robert Ennis Turoff

Ed & Roberta Hamilton

Chris Pfahler & Peter Salefsky

Marilyn Harwell, Mary Anne Servian & Shirley Ritchie

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Annette Scherman, Nate Jacobs, Janice Zarro, Charlie Huisking & Isabel Norton

Annette Dignam, Wendy Jankoski & Tom Dignam

Eleanor Williams & Betsy Bagby

Robin Serbin & Judy Blum

Paul Hudson & Renee Hamad scenesarasota.com

AmericanSpirit Celebrating the Performance by: Sarasota Orchestra

Co-Chairs Peggy and Ken Abt December 15, 2013 The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

Contact: Stacy Quaid 941.366.2224 squaid@jfcs-cares.org

Media Sponsor:

SOCIAL

Children First Gala

Children First hosted a sold out crowd at its April in Paris Gala at Michael’s on East.

Guests were transported to Paris through amazing décor, performance and sketch artists, murals designed for the event, and theme-based drinks and food. The event was co-chaired by Gerri Aaron & Marvin Albert, Nola & Larry Hietbrink, Stephanie & Allen Hochfelder and Mindy & Wayne Rollins. Event proceeds will provide child care scholarship assistance, purchase classroom supplies, provide nutritious daily meals, and support family strengthening programs to approximately 600 of Sarasota County’s neediest children birth to five years of age.

Photos by Cliff Roles

John & Robin Sullivan

Stacy Corley, Leslie Jones & Angie Stringer

Renee Phinney, Kimberly Marlow & Jenn McAlister

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Daisy Saunders

Nola & Larry Heitbrink, Stephanie & Allen Hochfelder, Gerri Aaron & Marvin Albert, Mindy & Wayne Rollins

Philip Tavill & Carol Butera

Debbie Dannheisser

Randy & Ashley Williams

Stan & Jo Rutstein scenesarasota.com

SOCIAL

SCF Evening Under the Stars The 25th Anniversary of Evening Under the Stars on the Venice campus of State College of Florida was celebrated with records crowds – 280 “VIPs” and 1,100 general admission. Venice Regional Medical Center was title sponsor and Ed & Betty Campbell sponsored the Venice Symphony Pops Orchestra. The VIP dinner was catered by Paul Mattison and guests enjoyed a fabulous firework display over the campus lake. Since the event started twenty-five years ago, it has grown in numbers and popularity and has become a favorite community event. All proceeds benefit the State College of Florida Foundation.

Jeannie & Mike Halpin

Dr. Carol Probstfeld, Rae Dowling & Dr. Sarah Pappas

Front row: Annette Dignam, Leslie Edwards, Laurie & David Dignam, Back row: Tom Dignam & Richy Edwards

Ann Salazak, Sandi Palinkas & Terri Rouhan

Tana Sandefur & Uta Christ-Janer

May Your Field of Dreams Be Diamonds MK Designs and The Golden Image Jewelry Store 30 South Palm Ave., Downtown Sarasota 9 4 1 . 3 6 4 . 8 4 3 9 • w w w. m y m k d e s i g n s . c o m

scenesarasota.com

June 2013

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29th Annual Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix Festival

FESTIVAL SCHEDuLE OF EVENTS Saturday - June 29 GOLF TOuRNAMENT Sunday - June 30 CAR SHOW BOAT & PERSONAL WATERCRAFT “FuN RuN” Monday - July 1 TExAS HOLD’EM POkER TOuRNAMENT tueSday - July 2 “THE FRIENDLIEST CATCH” FISHING TOuRNAMENT “A NAuTICAL NIGHT OF GIVING” FuNDRAISER AT THE SARASOTA YACHT CLuB FESTIVAL MERCHANDISE NOW AVAILABLE AT

WedneSday - July 3 FLEMING’S GRAND PRIx “FAN FEST” thurSday - July 4 BAYFRONT FIREWORkS SPECTACuLAR Friday - July 5 POWERBOATS BY THE BAY (NOON - 5 PM) FESTIVAL PARADE OF BOATS DOWNTOWN BLOCk PARTY

VIP RACE VIEWING ON LIDO BEACH RACE AWARDS CEREMONY

MAjOR FESTIVAL SPONSORS

BRADENTON - SARASOTA & VENICE STORE LOCATIONS

MEDIA PARTNER

PROCEEDS BENEFIT

LIVE RACE COVERAGE

superboat.com

Saturday - July 6 MEET & GREET WHO’S IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT POWERBOATS BY THE BAY (10 AM - 8 PM) “MISS SuPER BOAT GRAND PRIx” BIkINI CONTEST MOTORCYCLE RIDE FOR CHARITY GRAND PRIx “PRE-RACE” PARTY & FASHION SHOW Sunday - July 7 SuPER BOAT GRAND PRIx RACE

suncoastcharitiesforchildren.org

Festival Info

suncoastoffshore.org

CALENDAR

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

Photo of Margaret Wise’s table for Kim Githler’s surprise birthday party by Cliff Roles.

Savor Sarasota June 1 – 14. Sarasota celebrates the highest concentration of Zagat-rated restaurants in Florida with two weeks of three course feasts from participating restaurants. $15 for lunch; $29 for dinner.

For a list of restaurants, visit savorsarasota.com

Sarasota Music Festival June 2 – 22. The Festival runs each Thursday through Saturday the first three weeks of June and includes artist showcases at Sarasota Orchestra’s Holley Hall and Saturday Symphonies at the Sarasota Opera House. 941.953.3434 | sarasotaorchestra.org/sarasotamusicfestival.org

Florida Center’s Premier Golf Challenge June 3 TPC Prestancia Stadium Course 7:00 am. Only 36 individual players (playing in pairs) have the opportunity to play as many holes of golf as they can or want to in 5 hours in an individual scramble format. There is no fee to play. Golfers and Donation Partners are asked to raise donations and awareness for The Florida Center. 941.223.5181 | thefloridacenter.org

Ritz-Carlton Golf Club’s US Open Sectional Qualifier June 3 The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club 8:00 am. Sectional qualifying, conducted over 36 holes for the 2013 U.S. Open. Private club will welcome spectators and complimentary 10-minute lessons will be offered in the areas of full swing, putting, and short game. Free for spectators | 941.309.2900 | ritzcarlton.com/sarasota

12th Annual St. Armands Craft Festival June 8 – 9 St. Armands Circle Park 10:00 am. Featuring more than 175 artisans and crafters. Open to the public. artfestival.com scenesarasota.com

June 2013

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AFP Planet Philanthropy Conference June 9 – 11 Ritz-Carlton. Statewide conference with over 400 nonprofit professionals, features dynamic keynote speakers, over 40 educational sessions, and quality time for networking.

407.625.8284 | planetphilanthropy.org

Sarasota Opera Guild’s Summer Salons with Rex Willis June 13 The Francis 11:30 am. Luncheon featuring Rex Willis, an acclaimed classical guitarist as well as a published and commissioned composer. Tickets: $35 | 941.925.1220 | sarasotaopera.org

21st Annual Downtown Venice Craft Festival June 15 – 16 Miami Ave. Downtown Venice 10:00 am. Firstrate outdoor-juried craft showcase featuring a vast array of craft media. Open to the public | artfestival.com

The Ringling’s Summer Circus Spectacular June 18 – August 3. Annual Summer Circus Spectacular at The Ringling Historic Asolo Theater. Presented in collaboration with Circus Sarasota, this on-stage exhibition of circus artistry provides delightful summer entertainment for children of all ages.

Tickets: $10 - $15 | 941.360.7399 | ringling.org

Van Wezel’s Friday Fest on the Bay June 21 Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall 5:00 pm. The first of the summertime scheduled outdoor concerts, featuring “Yesterdayze.”

941.953.3368 | vanwezel.org

AJC Summer Lunch & Learn Series June 26 Michael’s On East 11:00 am. Second of AJC’s summer speaker series, featuring Rabbi Andrew Baker. Benefits the AJC. Tickets: $25, reservations required | 941.365.4955 | Sarasota@ajc.org

Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix Festival June 29 – July 7. This week-long celebration is filled with fun, excitement and a variety of events up to and around the powerboat race. Benefits the Suncoast Charities for Children.

941.371.8820 x1800 | suncoastoffshore.org

Upcoming Events Sarasota Opera Guild’s Summer Salons with Cheryl Losey July 11 Sarasota Yacht Club 11:30 am. Luncheon featuring Cheryl Losey, Principal Harpist of the Sarasota Orchestra, and performer for the Sarasota Opera. Tickets: $35 | 941.925.1220 | sarasotaopera.org

A Midsummer Night’s Wish July 13 Ritz Beach Club 7:00 pm. Delicious food and drink and great music poolside; event benefits the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Tickets: $100 | 941.952.9474 | summerwish.kintera.org

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PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE 941.351.8000 / asolorep.org Photo by John Revisky

PULSE Through June 16 Using rhythm as a common denominator, PULSE showcases American music from the classics of vaudeville to the dance hits of today, as well as original music created specifically for the production.

My Brilliant Divorce June 26 – July 14 A middle-aged American is blind-sided by her husband’s sudden decision to leave her. Adrift in a sea of bizarre dates, shifty lawyers, phone-in help lines and a cute dog named Dexter, will she find the strength to live anew?

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE 941.366.9000 / floridastudiotheatre.org

By Gershwin: A Tribute to George and Ira Through June 2 A spirited and elegant tribute to George and Ira Gershwin, one of the greatest songwriting teams from the 1920s.

The World Goes ‘Round Through June 23 Thrilling celebration of life filled with humor, romance, drama, and nonstop melody.

The Underpants June 26 – July 28 This play spins the farcical tale of five lives reborn from one accidental act of indecency.

LEMON BAY PLAYHOUSE

More Than A Feeling June 20 – July 20 Enjoy a musical tribute to the 70’s which include “Let It Be”, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “Close to you”.

SARASOTA MUSIC FESTIVAL 941.953.3434 / sarasotaorchestra.org/sarasotamusicfestival The Festival runs each Thursday through Saturday and includes artist showcases at Sarasota Orchestra’s Holley Hall and Saturday Symphonies at the Sarasota Opera House.

Brilliance and Beauty June 6 Move to the Music June 7 Dramatic Flair June 8 Student Recital 1, 2, & 3 June 9, 16, & 21 Songs of Amour June 13 A Musical Melange June 14 A Walk in Nature June 15 The Power of Music June 20 Fall in Love June 21 A Celebratory Finale June 22

VAN WEZEL PERFORMING ARTS HALL

941.475.6756 / lemonbayplayhouse.com

941.955.7676 / vanwezel.org

Don’t Cry for Me, Margaret Mitchell June 12 – 30 Legendary Hollywood producer David O. Selznick is sequestered in his office for a solid week with a screenwriter and a director, as the three rewrite the script for “Gone with the Wind.”

Yesterdayze June 21

THE PLAYERS THEATRE 941.365.2494 / theplayers.org Sunshine Boys June 13 – 30 Sparks fly when CBS invites estranged vaudeville duo Al Lewis and Willy Clark to reunite for a TV special on the history of comedy.

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VENICE THEATRE 941.488.1115 / venicestage.com Golda’s Balcony June 10 This one-woman show follows the life of Golda Meir from Russian immigrant to American schoolteacher to the epicenter of international politics as the fourth Prime Minister of Israel.

The Boomers June 15 1950s music and memories. scenesarasota.com

SOCIAL

The Guardian Retirement Championship at Sara Bay The Guardian Retirement Championship at Sara Bay – a professional women’s golf tournament on the LPGA’s Symetra Tour – was played at Sara Bay Country Club for the second consecutive year.

The Symetra Tour is the “Road to the LPGA” where the rising stars in women’s golf compete for their dreams of playing at golf’s highest level on the LPGA Tour. Tournament proceeds benefited Sarasota’s All Faiths Food Bank. The Pro-Am Pairings Party was hosted at Gold Coast Eagle Distributing’s Budweiser Hospitality Room where over 150 sponsors, VIP’s and Pro-Am participants gathered to kick-off tournament week and meet the professional golfers they were paired with in the two Pro-Am tournaments played prior to the three round event that began Friday April 26th.

Guardian Retirement Solutions was in the company’s first year as the title sponsor of the annual tournament at Sara Bay Country Club.

Dennis Chapman, Stacy Liszewski & Dick Hirschman

scenesarasota.com

Nora Branconi, Eddie Morton & Brenda Brown

Photos by Cliff Roles

Jim Gettel, Jean Chua & Jim Lake

Scott Collins & Sherry Edwards

Ryan Ronk, Stephanie Kenoyer & David Mallar

June 2013

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LIFESTYLE

Yara’s Way

By Yara Shoemaker

Beyond Limits

Elevate your awareness to better health!

Spotlight Super Food, Not Rabbit Food!

Getting tired of the same veggies at every meal? These six underrated foods are full of powerful nutrients to keep you energized & radiant!

Parsley: Usually confined to the side of the plate, parsley deserves the spotlight! One cup has more iron than any other leafy green, and is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, for beautifully healthy eyes and skin!

Seaweed: The nori in your California roll is a great source of protein and fiber, but an immense variety of tastes and textures are out there. One thing they all have in common is calcium: 10 times more per serving than milk!

Chickpeas: These powerful pulses are packed with protein! Their high fiber can also lower cholesterol and improve blood sugar.

Chia seeds: Your Chia pet is more than just a cute little plant! The seeds contain omega-3s, protein, fiber, and provide more antioxidant activity than any other food.

Beets: These lovely ruby roots are a robust source of betalains, anti-inflammatory nutrients. Keep the greens – they’re full of lutein, essential for eye health!

Watermelon: A great source of vitamins A and C, watermelon really shines with lycopene. Its pretty pink hue means there are high levels of the antioxidant, which may lower your risk for certain cancers. One more reason to enjoy this perfect summer snack!

Yara’s Table

Anyone can follow a recipe – the real fun of cooking is improvising! My Shot Glass Salads are a great first step to becoming more intuitive in your kitchen.

Just grab a 3-ounce shot glass and you’re ready to go! This is one of my favorite combinations, but my book contains countless other examples of fresh ingredients, so you can find the blend that’s truly you!

Tender Greens Shot Glass Salad Wash and dry two cups of arugula. Add one shot glass each of shredded carrots, white beans, and sliced radishes. Top with a shot glass each of feta, green olives, and toasted pumpkin seeds. It tastes even better with my simple lemon vinaigrette: • ½ shot glass (1.5 oz) extra-virgin olive oil • Juice of half a lemon • ¼ teaspoon crushed garlic • 1 teaspoon whole-grain mustard • Sea salt and black pepper to taste Whisk together, drizzle over your salad and enjoy!

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Kitchen Talk

Natural Allure

Long before we got carbo-phobia, bread

Bright Summer Potato Mask

used to be a simple dose of vital nutrients.

To lighten dark spots, brighten your

Now the norm is stripping grains of their

complexion and tighten skin, try this

rich outer layers and bleaching them – just

simple mask! Mash one boiled potato

like bleaching your hair! To reap all of

with ½ cup yogurt and 1 teaspoon of

those vitamins and minerals, accept their

sesame oil. Spread on your face and

natural beauty. Organic, unbleached whole-grain flour will add flavor, without

let rest for thirty minutes. Wash your

losing nutrients. Enjoy that warm, fluffy bread for its hearty and healthy taste!

face thoroughly with gentle soap and warm water. Do this treatment before

No Men Allowed

bed and use sunscreen before going

Healing Hormone Havoc

skin more sensitive to sunlight.

outdoors – this mask can make your Menopause might offer relief from monthly cramping and moodiness, but it also comes with its own symptoms! Hormone replacement therapy can ease your discomfort, but studies are inconclusive on whether the risks (increased chance of stroke, blood disease, and breast

cancer) are worth the benefits. Talk with your doctor, and consider some natural ways to alleviate menopausal symptoms.

Exercise: Yoga and strength training can prevent bone loss, and a brisk daily walk can help you sleep!

Calcium: Yogurt, spinach and beans are all great sources of calcium to keep your bones strong, and other essential nutrients to keep you energized.

Omega-3s: Evidence shows that these essential fatty acids can help stabilize mood swings. Your body absorbs them best by eating fresh fish such as salmon and tuna.

Vitamin E: This essential vitamin may relieve hot flashes. It also strengthens your immune system and prevents cells from aging. Supplements aside, it’s abundant in avocado, leafy greens, nuts and seeds.

On the Move New Orleans Where better to take it easy than the Big Easy? June is a great time to visit New Orleans: the crowds from JazzFest are long gone, and you’ll be used to the Sarasota-like summer temperatures. If things get a little too hot, relax in the cool comfort of Windsor Court Hotel. Within walking distance of the historic French Quarter, its décor nods to the city’s unique origins and history. Enjoy a custom cocktail in the Prohibition-themed lounge and swim under the stars in the rooftop pool. Enjoy a morning stroll along the river and breakfast at Café du Monde. Their sinfully delicious beignets are not to be missed! Take in the sights of the French Quarter until lunchtime, when you can stop by Central Grocery for another Crescent City classic, the muffaletta. Burn off those calories by wandering down nearby Bourbon Street. You won’t leave without a wild new story to tell!

Yara’s Way is a complete online lifestyle guide with unique approaches to healthy cooking, natural beauty, personal style, luxury travel and more. Yara Shoemaker is passionate about sharing her experience and advice to improve the lives of others and help everyone be beautiful from the inside out.

Find more great tips and recipes at www.yarasway.com scenesarasota.com

Question of the Month

Salt used to be worth its weight in gold! Ancient cultures prized this multipurpose mineral, but your table salt isn’t living up to its full

potential. Is high blood pressure the reason we should shoo that shaker away? Surprisingly, that isn’t the answer! To learn exactly why salt is so important and how to choose the right one for your table, check out my book, Health On Your Plate!

For more amazing recipes look inside my new cookbook, Health On Your Plate, now available onAmazon!

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SOCIAL

12th Annual Grand Rounds Golf Tournament The 12th Annual Grand Rounds Golf Tournament, hosted by Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, Inc., was held at Laurel Oak Country Club on May 3, 2013. Both the East and West courses were included to help facilitate play throughout the day for more than 200 golfers. Winners received their awards and prizes at a dinner following the tournament. Chaired by Carroll Hunter, the event netted more than $66,000 to benefit the Physicians Endowment for staff education. Scene Magazine was the Premier media sponsor and Coast Infiniti/Sunset Automotive Group and Professional Resolution Center were Hole-in-One sponsors.

Mark Cohen & Ben Hatcher

Photos by Cliff Roles

Alex Quarles & Adrian Gadd

David Verinder & Lana McDonald

Dave Whalen. K.C. Fox & Devin Spies

Steve Donnelly, Steve & Mike Iltis

CasAntica Wine Dinner Restaurateur extraordinaire Peter Migliaccio and his staff hosted a full house at his popular downtown Sarasota restaurant, CasAntica. Wines from the Italian Piedmont region were specially selected for the unique flavors of a delicious 7-course dinner highlighted by the main course, Piedmontese beef, a very tender, flavorful and organic beef, which originated in the Italian Alps. CasAntica is located at 1213 N. Palm Avenue, Sarasota.

Martha Ballard, Steve Matthews & Carolyn Blum

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Photos by Cliff Roles

Rachel Leemis & Jon Grabowski

Ian & Caryn Wilbraham & Tina & Paul Martinelli

Ron & Rebecca Biszick

Carol & Adel Jami & Larry Panica scenesarasota.com

Peter & Susan Migliaccio invite you to experience the warmth, comfort and world-class food & wine at their new, downtown Italian Restaurant.

A Real Italian Experience from Start to Finish!

1213 N. Palm Ave. | Sarasota, Florida 34236 | 941-366-1840 | www.casanticarestaurant.com | casanticarestaurant@aol.com

ARTS & CULTURE PRESENTED BY:

1 1) Asolo Repertory Theatre’s PULSE: A Dance Musical Through June 16, 2013 Noah Racey’s Pulse is a song and dance celebration that harkens back to the golden age of hoofing, when artists like Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, and Ginger Rogers ruled the stage and screen. Conceived and choreographed by Broadway song and dance man Noah Racey in partnership with Broadway director Jeff Calhoun, Pulse features a cast of six performing classic numbers like “Under My Skin,” “Pick Yourself Up,” and “Once in Love with Amy” in a fresh, entirely modern way. For tickets, call 941.351.9010 or go to www.asolorep.org.

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Why it Matters: Racey has spent more than 30 years developing his own unique performance style, and Pulse is the culmination of his life’s work. “All the people in the world understand the universal language of song and dance,” said Racey, who has taken his brand of entertainment to more than 15 countries. Racey’s personal recipe, which incorporates drumming, body percussion and rhythmic tapping with elegant lines, is what sets the style in Pulse apart from anything else on Broadway.

2) Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week June 1 – 14, 2013 It is time for food lovers and epicureans from Florida and beyond to rejoice as Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week returns June 1 – 14, 2013. Hosted by VISIT SARASOTA COUNTY (VSC), this

3

culinary celebration is in its eighth year spotlighting $15 pre-fix lunch and $29 pre-fix dinner menus at more than 37 participating restaurants, from fine dining to casual beach cafés and eclectic urban eateries.

Why it Matters: Sarasota County has the highest concentration of Zagat-rated restaurants in Florida and is known as Florida’s Cultural Coast®, boasting an impressive concentration of professional arts and culture offerings. With these two remarkable accolades, there’s no better time to taste what’s cooking and hear what’s playing in Sarasota County. For more information on what’s cooking and who’s cooking visit www.savorsarasota.org.

3) Sarasota Music Festival June 3 – 22, 2013

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Now in its 49th season, the Sarasota Music Festival is again bursting onto the local arts scene, breaking fresh artistic ground. Known around the world for attracting the top college-aged student participants and faculty artists from the best music programs and symphonies, the Festival provides unique experiences for audiences to enjoy twelve different breathtaking concerts. For tickets and information, please visit www.SarasotaOrchestra.org.

Why it Matters: The Sarasota Music Festival is a magical combination of youthful promise and acclaimed talent that carries a reputation as one of the finest classical-music events in the nation. Nearly 500 students from top music programs at colleges and conservatories worldwide audition to participate in the Festival each year, but only 60 are accepted. These exceptional students work side-by-side with a group of 40 music

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masters, which comprise the guest faculty artists.

4) Banyan Theater Company's Painting Churches

by Tina Howe

Michelle Crabtree

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

2011 Five Star Real Estate Agents “Best In Client Satisfaction” – 4 Years

June 27 – July 14

2010 Florida Realtor Honor

Gardner (Don Walker) and Fanny Church

Society – 4 Years

(Jenny Aldrich) are preparing to move out of their Beacon Hill house to their

2010 Director, Sarasota

summer cottage on Cape Cod. Gardner,

Association of Realtors (SAR)

once a famous poet, is now retired. He

– 3 year term

slips in and out of senility as his wife

2009 Women’s Council of

Fanny valiantly tries to keep them both

Realtors (WCR) Sarasota

afloat. They have asked their daughter, Mags (Olivia Williamson), to come home and help them move. Mags agrees, for she hopes as well to finally paint their portrait. She is on the verge of artistic celebrity herself and hopes, by painting her parents, to come to terms with them and they with her. The New York Times calls it, "a theatrical family portrait that has the shimmer and depth of Renoir

“Business Woman of the Year”

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A third generation local & Broker Sales Associate since 1982; dedicated to your needs. Serving Sarasota, Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch.

Service Award” 2005 WCR Sarasota “Realtor of the Year”

portraits". For tickets call the Banyan Theater Company at 941.351.2808, or visit www. banyantheatercompany.com.

Why it Matters: Tina Howe’s Painting Churches is semi-autobiographical, based on her parents but most notably her father Quincy Howe, a CBS commentator during the golden age of radio. It was a finalist for the 1982 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. The play concerns the relationship between an adult child, Mags, and her aging parents... and Mags' desire to memorialize them.

Visit SarasotaArts.org for additional events, artist profiles and information about Sarasota’s exciting

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June 2013

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GIVING

Bullish on Education Angie Brewer

By Steven J. Smith | Photo by Cliff Roles Angie Brewer learned at an early age the importance of getting a good education, so it’s no wonder she and her husband

In the fall of 2009, Angie and Jim donated a raised statue of a bull — USF’s mascot — for the Clyde G. Nixon Courtyard

Jim have devoted a good part of their fortune to preserving the legacy of the University of South Florida. Great supporters of the separately accredited USF Sarasota-Manatee campus, the Brewers do all they can to promote scholarship, leadership and growth at their local four-year university.

at USF Sarasota-Manatee, along with USF Alumni Association Board Members Dr. Anila Jain and President Roger Frazee.

“We’re really proud of that one, and we know that every year students at graduation have their pictures taken with it,” she said. “We’re quite pleased with that.”

“We have made sure there is a reasonable sum of money to be left to USF Sarasota-Manatee for scholarships,” Angie said. “A good education is so important, especially to those who can’t afford it.”

Angie and Jim are also involved with USF’s Around The Horns Coaches Tour, which provides a unique opportunity for students and alumni to interact with favorite USF personalities.

Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Angie was raised in the Tampa Bay area and is the fifth of seven children. She was the first among her siblings to complete college, a process that took her almost twenty years. She enrolled in Business Administration at USF in 1963.

“And this year we’re having a USF day on June 7,” she said. “All the coaches are coming down from Tampa. We’ll have presentations, clinics, and involve the Boys & Girls Club. The Chamber of Commerce is also involved. It’s really going to be fantastic. I’m the current vice president of the Bull’s Club board, the athletic association board, and the incoming president. I also sit on the campaign cabinet, where over the last six years we raised over $600 million university-wide for athletic facilities expansion and to provide seed money for a variety of college-related projects.”

During Angie’s sophomore year, family responsibilities forced her to take a break from full-time study. Undeterred, this wife, mother of two, and then section head of grants management for the Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court, moved with her family to Bradenton in 1978 and by 1982 she had her bachelor’s degree. Two years later, Angie completed her master’s in Management and by 1988, she opened Angie Brewer and Associates, a capital projects funding company based in Bradenton.

“Over the course of my career since the early 70s I’ve dealt with funding for about $6 billion in projects,” Angie said. “Every kind of capital project or local government project you can imagine. We help communities plan, manage, and deal with compliance so that these projects can be successful.”

Angie, who is now 67 years old, believes a college education is crucial to achieving one’s goals in life.

“It’s because of the education I received at USF that today I am 100 times more successful than I ever would have had a chance to be,” she said. “Those degrees secured my future.” scenesarasota.com

In addition, Angie and Jim have thrown their support behind programs designed to aid disabled and autistic children. “We have two autistic grandchildren in our own family,” she said.

“We’re strong supporters of that, because we know the impact autism has on people’s lives.”

Angie and Jim are strong advocates for educating women in the workforce, and she encourages all of her employees to pursue their education — and attend USF, of course.

“I grew up in a male-dominated workforce,” she said. “I was fortunate that my husband was very supportive, urging me to finish my bachelor’s degree and get my master’s. It changed not only my life, but our family’s life as well. Everyone — male and female — deserves the same opportunity I had. But women especially are a terrible resource to waste.”

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T l raining a n o i t of a c u The Circus Arts Ed

o s t a a r a Circus S

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By Su e

Cull e n

scenesarasota.com

Ian Laidlaw & Anthony Congdon – Duo Romanesc, Sailor Circus Alumni

Sailor Circus Aerialists

eaching out to local youths through innovative education programs, Circus Sarasota not only is helping children gain enthusiasm for traditional classroom subjects, but is using circus arts to teach the skills of self mastery that will give them a foundation on which to build successful lives.

“Not many people realize the kind of educational programs we have,” says Pedro Reis, CEO of Circus Sarasota. “They think of us as a circus, not as a nonprofit that has all of these community outreach programs.” Through the Sailor Circus performances and the Big Top Education program for elementary students, Circus Sarasota is able to touch hundreds of young lives each year. “It always has been my dream to have a circus school. That is pretty much how I started at a YMCA in Cape Town, South Africa, where I began learning the flying trapeze,” said Reis, who went on to became a professional aerialist and performed internationally before founding Circus Sarasota with his aerialist wife Dolly Jacobs-Reis. In 2011, when Circus Sarasota assumed management of the venerable Sailor Circus, Reis’ dream began coming true.

Since 1949, the Sailor Circus has been teaching circus arts to area youths, and while the majority of students do not pursue professional careers in the circus, the physical prowess and life skills learned through Sailor Circus have proven to be useful assets in school and beyond. “Alumni tell us that when they go to job interviews, they don’t feel intimidated. They are totally confident, and that has to do with their Sailor Circus participation,” he said.

For one student, though, Sailor Circus has meant both a professional calling and a way to move past a painful shyness that threatened to hold her back. “I used to not be able to talk to people so much. I couldn’t speak in class because I was too shy,” says Khera Smith, an 11th grade student who has been in the program for nine years. “Now I have no problem talking and performing in front of people. It’s given me a lot of pride in myself to accomplish the things I’ve been able to do with Sailor Circus.”

Those things include mastering the single trapeze — her favorite act — as well as the high and low wires, and the unicycle. She also has been working with aerial hoops and silks. Like many Sailor Circus participants, Smith got her start after attending a performance with an aunt when she was nine. “I was so excited when I saw the show, and I thought I can do this, so I signed up,” she said. “The coaches were so nice to me, and I made lots of friends the first day. They had me do simple tricks, but to me they were not so simple. It was amazing.”

Achieving the feats of physical prowess that the student performers master takes discipline, desire, and diligence on their par t. It also takes suppor t at home. Sailor Circus is an af ter school scenesarasota.com

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Arianne Shedlock, Khera Smith & Nick Slimick on unicycle

11th grade student Khera Smith performing on the single trapeze

program where participants can spend from 10 to 20 hours per

her other credits was Betty Hutton’s stunt double in the movie

week, initially learning to ride the unicycle for the younger stu-

“The Greatest Show on Earth.” All of Smith’s hard work has

dents and eventually mastering the trapeze, high wire, juggling

resulted in some well-deserved awards, including the Gunther

or other acts. With public performances at the year-end holi-

Wallenda Award for the high wire. “She earned the award for

days and again around Easter, practice schedules become more

getting over her fear, her dedication, practice time, desire to

intense. Older students, like Smith, who have mastered more

push herself to do more and her enthusiasm to keep going,”

acts, can rehearse from 2:30 until 8 p.m. during season.

said Susan Loeffler, Circus Sarasota’s artistic director. She also won the Style & Smile Award. “When performing, no matter

The students also participate in Circus Sarasota’s communi-

what happens, you style and smile,” Loeffler said. “Khera’s al-

ty outreach programs, often performing at senior facilities,

ways smiling. She has this spirit about her when she performs.”

parades, and on small stages at events like the Sarasota Film Festival. “We were invited to the Sarasota Youth Opera’s ‘Little

Working together to create a performance fosters good commu-

Nemo in Slumberland,’ and we performed five hours a night for

nication, trust and teamwork. “Trusting, understanding and com-

three weeks. It was a great experience. I also played ‘Tommy’ a

municating with each other makes them feel good about them-

few years ago on the five-foot-high unicycle,” Smith said. “I plan

selves and builds self esteem,” she said. Family involvement also

to continue with the circus. Not many people in the program do

is an important part of the program. “Families are required to give

that, but I finally found my niche in the world. I love it.”

25 volunteer hours during season. They work concessions, usher, and sew costumes,” Loeffler says. “We wouldn’t be able to func-

In addition to her Sailor Circus experience, Smith has studied

tion without them, and it also brings families together. Even with

with the renowned trapeze artist LaNorma Fox, who among

divorced families, it brings them together to do something fun.”

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Big Top Education at Southside Elementary

Nick Slimick & Charley Leonard Unicyclists at Sailor Circus

Pedro Reis & Dolly Jacobs-Reis, photo by Barbara Banks

Khera’s father, Don Smith, took things a step further and has

summer camp and Big Top Education Program, which uses the

been a Sailor Circus unicycle coach for eight years. “Everything

circus arts to provide a kinesthetic learning experience to help

about Sailor Circus has made Khera who she is. Self confidence

students grasp — and understand the relevance of — science,

is one of the biggest things it’s given her,” he said. “She’s able

technology and mathematics. The program is particularly ef-

to stand in front of a crowd of 2,000 and speak or perform with

fective with students who have had difficulty responding to

no problem. Ten years ago, you couldn’t get her to walk up to

more traditional modes of instruction. “We welcome every-

people, and now she has become a mentor to pass down what

one and focus on making sure this is a very safe environment,”

she has learned to other kids.” Summing up what Sailor Circus

he said. “We work successfully with children who are autistic,

has meant to her, Khera says, “I would tell anyone to follow

physically challenged or handicapped in other ways.”

your heart. If you want to do it, let no one tell you can or can’t be good because all you have to do is practice and believe in

That is why Circus Sarasota’s arena improvement project is a

yourself. Follow your dreams because that’s what I did.”

major initiative. “Our focus right now is the arena improvements. There is no air conditioning, and during the summer it

Circus Sarasota emphasizes giving children from all back-

is unbearable,” he said. “Making those improvements will help

grounds and physical abilities a safe environment in which to

our students excel. We want to deliver circus arts at the highest

learn, Reis says. Each year more than 100 students from the

level, not just through the discipline of the performance, but the

fourth through 12th grades go through the Sailor Circus pro-

aesthetics as well. This is Sarasota with a rich circus history, and

gram. Circus Sarasota also reaches out to students through its

we want to make our own positive impact on that heritage.”

Connect: Circus Sarasota | 2075 Bahia Vista Street, Sarasota, FL 34239 | 941-355-9335 | circussarasota.org scenesarasota.com

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PLANTING FIRM ROO S Jewish Federation

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of Sarasota-Manatee

By Sue Cullen

scenesarasota.com

Demonstrating that experience is a powerful teacher, the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee offers teens opportunities to become stronger leaders and also enhance their sense of Jewish identity and pride. Through well-orchestrated trips to Poland, Israel, and our nation’s capital, young people can gain insight into the history, culture and resilience of the Jewish people, an understanding of the role and importance of advocacy and social action, and a deeper connection to their faith.

One compelling experience offered by the Jewish Federation is participation in the annual March of the Living Mission, which gathers 10,000 Jewish teens from around the world to visit Poland and Israel, says Kim Mullins, director of communications and programming. In Poland, they witness the reality of the Holocaust and participate in the three-kilometer march from Auschwitz to Birkenau, the largest concentration complex built by the Nazis, to commemorate Yom Hashoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day. The trip culminates with an uplifting visit to Israel to participate in Yom Hazikaron, the Day of Remembrance, and Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel Independence Day. Participation in the March of the Living trip is made available through the Federation in partnership with local philanthropists without whose generosity the experience would not be possible, according to Mullins. “It’s important as a Federation that we invest in educating our teens,” she says. This is in keeping with the Federation’s focus on preserving Jewish heritage through cultural, educational and social programs, supporting the people of Israel by connecting the local community with Jews worldwide, and funding programs in more than 60 countries. The Federation also helps vulnerable and disadvantaged members of the local community with basic needs.

Brandon Ikeman, a senior at Pineview High School and the son of Dr. Robert and Beverly Ikeman, has benefitted from nearly all of the Federation’s youth initiatives. He participated in the March of the Living experience in April along with four other area students. “It really increased my pride in Judaism and my understanding of who I am as a person,” Ikeman said.

“I’m very thankful for what I have and our way of life after seeing Poland, and I was able to network with other Jewish teens.”

March of the Living participants witnessed the Holocaust at concentration camps, gas chambers and Jewish sites throughout the country and marched from Auschwitz with 10,000 teens from around the world, Mullins said. They also met with, and learned the stories of, Holocaust survivors.

“We saw the Jews there prevailed, and then we went to Israel and saw hope, our land,” Ikeman said. A march through old city Jerusalem was memorable as was participating in the Day of Remembrance. “Each city’s ceremony includes reading a list of the names of their soldiers fallen since 1948 when the nation was founded,” he said. “It shows they respect their fallen soldiers. The next day they celebrate independence, but they never forget the price paid for it.” scenesarasota.com

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Main entrance to Auschwitz Birkenau Concentration Camp

Brandon Ikeman (back row, 2nd from right) and the Young Ambassadors Group overlooking Jerusalem.

Ikeman also has benefitted from other educational experiences

ities, and the teens attend education sessions before and

offered by the Jewish Federation, but his involvement started

after the trip, Mullins said. “We learned the essence of Ju-

when he was encouraged to join its Communiteen program as

daism and what we need to advocate for,” Ikeman says. As

a high school sophomore. “At first I was skeptical. I thought

part of their trip, the students visited Kiryat Yam where the

it would be boring and really didn’t want to get up early on

Federation has formed a partnership community. “The host

Sunday,” he said, “but I decided to try it. It was completely dif-

families were so welcoming. They hosted us in their homes

ferent from my expectations. I met other Jewish teens and made

and had parties for us,” he said. “Our local philanthropists

good friends I still hang out with today. Communiteen was an

have built buildings, and Mote Marine and Florida Studio

informal, Jewish conversation-based program where we asked

Theatre also have formed partnerships there.”

a lot of questions about what it means to be Jewish, what is our history and why we celebrate certain things. It gave me a better

Back home, Ikeman’s Federation activities along with his rig-

idea of Judaism and is what introduced me to the Federation.”

orous studies at Pineview take up much of his time, and he also is vice president of both the school’s National Honor

In 2012, Ikeman had the opportunity to travel to Wash-

Society and Spanish Club. He plans to attend the University

ington, D.C., to attend the annual Panim el Panim, which

of Central Florida in Orlando in the fall to study electrical

translates as Face-to-Face, seminar. The teens visit nation-

engineering and has applied for a college scholarship through

al monuments and other sites, and have insider access to

the Federation. Scholarships from $500 to $5,000 are granted

locations like the U.S. Capitol where they may meet and

annually to college-bound students, Mullins said. In 2012,

lobby members of Congress. “We learned about issues in

that amounted to $56,000 awarded to 27 local Jewish stu-

our community like homelessness, education and trans-

dents based on financial need as well as a good academic

portation,” Ikeman said. “They showed us how to take an

record and community involvement.

issue and advocate for things. It showed me how to have a voice and speak out for whatever I believe in.”

Thanks to his experiences, Ikeman says he wants to keep his Judaism for the rest of his life. “There are so many tracks to

Subsequently, he traveled with 14 other teens to Israel for

follow when I know who I am as a Jew. It can be a guiding light

two weeks through the Bob Malkin Young Ambassadors

if I take a path to become more religious or take a cultural path

Teen Leadership Mission, which is part of the Federation’s

and live our rich heritage,” he said. “The programs gave me a

Jewish leadership development program. This program is of-

bigger view of the world and of Judaism. That’s a very tangible

fered to high school sophomores and juniors who express

benefit and my connection to Judaism has become more life-

interest in an Israel experience and exhibit leadership qual-

long. It gave me firmer roots on my own ground.”

Connect: Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee | 580 McIntosh Road Sarasota, FL 34232 | 941-371-4546 | jfedsrq.org scenesarasota.com

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Excellence ALL AROUND

SAINT STEPHEN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

By Sue Cullen

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Working intentionally to create a community where students from many walks of life may thrive, Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School retains its focus as a college preparatory school while ensuring each student’s unique interests and abilities are developed.

Academic excellence is the school’s mission, but helping children grow into well rounded adults means an emphasis also is placed on arts, nature, international studies, physical education and athletics as well as emotional intelligence, says Dr. Jan Pullen, Saint Stephen’s Head of School. “Not only do we provide a challenging and rigorous academic program where 100 percent of our graduating seniors go to college every year,” Pullen said, “but we take little ones and nurture them in a caring community that allows them to grow as individuals.” Saint Stephen’s accepts co-educational students of all faiths from pre-K at age 3 through 12th grade.

If anyone understands what the school offers, it’s Spencer Nora, a 2013 graduating senior who has attended the school since he was a preschooler and whose four older siblings also graduated from Saint Stephen’s. Nora credits the education he received and the school’s college counselors for helping him successfully navigate the rigorous admission process for the U.S. Naval Academy where he plans to fulfill his goal of becoming a Naval officer. “The college counseling is really helpful. The counselors are realistic,” he says. “They listen to where you want to go and help with the best college for you. They make sure everything is done ahead of time through the whole process.”

Keeping students challenged and engaged in learning is paramount. “In the course of the day, students have opportunities as varied as art, drama, and science lab as early as pre-K,” Pullen said. “We have advanced placement classes in all subject areas and have four strong initiatives to enhance our overall program.” These include a global education program along with iPad, marine, and emotional intelligence initiatives. Faculty members value their own continuing education to reflect students’ interests and impart their own contagious excitement for learning to their students. “The teachers help you gain the desire to strive for excellence, and they show you how to excel in their learning environment,” Nora said.

“A world-class education can mean many things,” Pullen says. “We attract students from all over the world. In our high school, 26 different cultures are represented.” Students also share academic lessons and discussion via Skype with children at a sister school in Guilin, China, as well as Honduras, Spain, Ireland and Tanzania. “We hope this makes them more empathetic about others so our world can be a more peaceful place,” Pullen added.

Nora values the chance to make friends with those from different cultures and walks of life and would like to dispel the stereotype that private school students are privileged and insular. “A ton of my friends are from different cultures like Sweden, France and Brazil,” he says. “It is so interesting to talk with them.

There are no real barriers at Saint Stephen’s. Everyone is a friend with everyone.” A strong language program goes hand in hand with the school’s global initiative. Students learn languages early, including Latin, French and Spanish, and for the past five years, lower school students have been learning to read, write and speak Mandarin Chinese.

LEED-certified Middle School opened January 2010. scenesarasota.com

The school’s marine initiative takes advantage of its bucolic setting. With its 35 acre wooded campus on the McLewis Bayou, Saint Stephen’s offers a hands-on marine science program giving students the opportunity to conduct ocean field studies and experiments via boat and kayak and take the occasional break from classes to head to the dock to study visiting manatees.

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Left to right: Nikole Gaydos (3rd), Caroline Gregory (10th) Layla Turner (1st), Jake Miele (2nd) & Spencer Nora (12th)

learning tool, and when school starts this fall, all students from sixth grade through high school will have their own iPads. “We want students to develop critical thinking and analysis skills. This is not just a fill in the blank, multiple-choice environment. They have to think and problem solve,” Pullen said. “With the iPad initiative, students will have a mobile tool that brings a lot of resources to their fingertips.” Another benefit: with e-books, heavy backpacks are a thing of the past.

Grounded in research demonstrating that emotional intelligence (EQ) is equally important for success as IQ, Saint Stephen’s helps students develop the ability to manage their own emotions and learn to be sensitive to others. “So much emphasis is being placed on anti-bullying,” Pullen said. “If we took an EQ approach to teach empathy, that would address bullying but also would fit more broadly into other aspects of life.” Pullen truly understands the importance of EQ as a life skill. She successfully defended her dissertation on emotional intelligence in April to complete her doctoral degree in educational leadership at the University of Pennsylvania.

As a college preparatory school, Saint Stephen’s college counseling group begins talking with parents of students in the Intermediate School, grades four through six, to introduce the foundation for college entry.

“Our mission is to match students’ needs with the right school,” Pullen said. “We provide an education that allows our students to enter the Ivies every year, and we are just as proud of those who go to junior college or a state school. We’ve also had about a dozen kids sign with the NCAA.” Saint Stephen’s emphasizes physical education and athletics and recently broke ground on an 800-seat stadium. This year, it has gone to state with the girl’s track, golf, tennis and swim teams.

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Students participate in physical education and are strongly encouraged to take part in sports. “That’s when I started to develop as a person,” says Nora, who now is captain for both the cross country and track teams.

His capacity for leadership was also built through student government, he says, starting in the seventh grade when he began serving on the student council. Nora was student council president this year, but he says he didn’t start out as a natural born leader. “When I was in lower school, I was really shy and not socially developed,” he said. “They observed that and helped me in ways that were really beneficial.”

Attending Saint Stephen’s while living in south Sarasota County hasn’t always been the easiest choice with the daily commute to Manatee County, Nora acknowledges. “It is a commitment, but it is definitely worth it. The education is superior. They challenge you from a young age, and you learn time management and how to balance things,” he says. “You realize the results when you apply to colleges.”

Students currently come to Saint Stephen’s from a 35-mile radius, feeling the education gained is worth the daily commute. Pullen encourages parents to visit and explore what the school has to offer regardless of distance, and also not to consider finances an impediment. “Some people ask if it is affordable,” she said. “We do have financial assistance available, and we find the families who come here make it work as a matter of priority. It is definitely worth coming to see what we offer and to see if it’s of value to their families. The key is that we keep looking to the future and won’t rest on our laurels. We’re still growing and making education exciting for our students.”

Connect: Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School | 315 41st Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209 | 941-746-2121 | SaintStephens.org scenesarasota.com

Saint Stephen’s offers over 40 sports teams and 80% of students in 6th - 12th grade are involved in a sports programs.

Fifth Grade teacher Jennifer Caskey works with two students on iPads that have been fully integrated into the curriculum as a learning tool.

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Screenager?

Local Options to Keep Kids Active, Healthy & Happy

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last decade, you’ve heard the dire warning: we’re getting more sedentary, and with that comes severe health risks. But that sounds kind of like a general, unspecified threat so it’s easy to ignore, isn’t it? Let’s examine some recent statistics from the President’s Council of Fitness, Sports & Nutrition to see what’s really what.

• Only one in three children are physically active every day.

• Children now spend seven and a half hours a day in front of a screen (TV, computer, or video game).

• Less than 5% of adults participate in 30 minutes of physical activity each day.

• Recent reports project that by 2030, half of all adults in the United States will be obese.

Kind of tough to ignore it now, right? Well, the key to being an active adult is to foster a commitment to an active lifestyle for children, tweens, and teens. Thankfully, we have a number of groups and organizations in our area that do exactly this. Read on to see just some of the many options available.

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The Strength of Gymnastics Thanks to Twitter tweets, Facebook posts, and Instagram photos from athletes such as Nastia Liukin and Gabby Douglas, the public feels more attached to gymnastics and gymnasts than ever before. It doesn’t hurt that the U.S. has won gold medals in the last two Olympics either! About 3,500 USA Gymnastics-sanctioned competitions and events are held annually and that number is rising.

“Gymnastics inherently teach children long-term goal setting because it takes months (even years with competitive gymnastics) to master some gymnastics skills,” says Jamie Griffitts, owner of Acro Fit Gymnastics Center.

“Other life skills taught through gymnastics are self-confidence, self-trust, positive mindsets and mental focus. For gymnasts who decide to train competitively, their education comes through their experiences both in daily training and in competition. These young people learn about winning and losing, the power of positive thinking and desire, sportsmanship, the importance of scheduling, and the rewards of dedication and perseverance.”

A big misconception, Griffitts notes, is that kids will get hurt in gymnastics. Within the last ten years, hundreds of equipment advances have been made that greatly increase safety and overall performance.

Now, coaches can actually stop a child upside-down and correct their body position. Of course, common sense things such as spacing equipment far enough to avoid collisions and using qualified spotters helps minimize the risk of injury at Acro Fit or any other gymnastics center.

How early can gymnastics be taught? Griffitts says, “As early as 2 years old. Preschool gymnastics programs are centered around gross motor strength and development and not specifically acrobatics. Introducing your child to movement instruction at an early age will encourage them to climb and jump during recess and create the desire for them to participate in sports and clubs.” For more information on Acro Fit Gymnastics Center, please visit acrofitgymnastics-sarasota.com or call (941) 923-2100.

The Kick of Soccer The most popular sport in the world is soccer and the reasons why are clear. There are only a few rules. You can play it nearly anywhere.

Plus there’s a creativity and freedom to the game. Small wonder that over 200 million people in over 200 countries play it. The people at FC Sarasota, too, think it’s one of the best games in the world.

One of the core beliefs they have is that a good work ethic is crucial for success. “The belief in fixed ability is completely wrong,” says Director of Coaching Graham Hutton. “It’s more important for our players to understand that the key is to fully commit to long-term goals.” Those long-term goals can be ruined by external factors directed at kids such as pressure, constant criticism, or displays of disappointment in their performance. That’s not what happens at FC Sarasota, and it’s not what happens scenesarasota.com

in soccer either. Hutton says, “As coaches and parents, we all have to step back and remind ourselves that it’s their childhood and their game.”

From 3 vs. 3 mini matches for young players to summer camps for players of all levels to serious programs for those interested in playing college soccer, FC Sarasota works to educate players, parents, and FC Sarasota coaches in methods that make the experience a success. “Most important,” adds Hutton, “is the learning environment created by the coaches.

Fun and learning must be a part of everyone’s experience.” For more information on FC Sarasota, please visit fcsarasota.com or call (941) 925-7679.

The Power of Martial Arts Martial arts training supplements traditional classroom education by helping students learn to focus and work within a specific structure. In essence, their bodies become an instrument of learning, explains Kelly Trautwein, owner of Trautwein''s ATA Martial Arts Academy. Trautwein adds that “it’s proven that martial arts are therapeutic and beneficial to students with ADD and ADHD, as well. Plus students and parents have reported that their child’s grades have improved from martial arts training, too!”

Yet training in the martial arts just teaches kids to beat up other kids, or at least that’s what my parents thought. Wrong, wrong, wrong!

“When students begin to see how physically powerful they can be, this leads to improved self-confidence,” said Trautwein. “Self-confidence or belief in one’s self leads a student to be more reserved in their behavior.

When martial arts are taught appropriately, the instructor will make the students aware that martial arts should only be used when necessary.”

Trautwein is quick to point out that the academy is an ATA (American Taekwondo Association) member. The ATA is the largest martial arts organization in existence with over 1,500 schools and 300,000 members worldwide. Through programs based upon years of research, development, and practical application, “we focus on the complete development of each student by providing group and individual instruction,” Trautwein says. “We believe in building self-confidence and self-esteem through our instruction. The martial arts are a life-enhancing skill, not just an activity.” For more information on Trautwein’s ATA, please visit karatesarasota.com or call (941) 926-0355.

No matter which of the options you choose, the young people in your life will benefit from an active lifestyle. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention says it’s a fact: regular physical activity improves endurance and strength, helps build healthy bones and muscles, helps control weight, reduces anxiety and stress, increases self-esteem, and may improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that young people aged 6-17 years participate in at least 60 minutes of physical activity every single day. How much physical activity are the young people in your life getting?

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Suncoast Polytechnical High School students explore Sarasota Bay with Mote Marine scientists, thanks to an Education Foundation Exploration Grant awarded to teacher Nina Henderson.

Education Foundation Exploration Grants are made possible by generous local families, groups and businesses. New and increased gifts are matched, dollar for dollar, by The Patterson Foundation.

For more information, visit www.EdFoundation.net or call 941-927-0965. Photo by Daniel Perales.

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EXPLORING BRIGHT FUTURES EdExplore SRQ, an initiative that provides students with exposure to arts, science and culture through in-classroom and off-campus explorations and experiences, is the result of a unique partnership between the Sarasota County School District, Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County, Science and Environment Council of Southwest Florida, Community Foundation of Sarasota County, Education Foundation of Sarasota County and The Patterson Foundation.

A

ccording to Jim Shirley, Executive Director of the

explorations will allow the Sarasota County School District to con-

Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County,

tinue to be a shining star of all Florida school districts with its focus

“This exciting collaboration will leverage many

on students and experiential learning opportunities.”

of our most powerful community resources to support the efforts of our teachers and help en-

Sarasota County Schools will take on the responsibility of rede-

sure that the needs of every child are being met.”

signing and maintaining EdExploreSRQ.com, a publicly accessible website designed to give teachers, principals and parents’ informa-

The Community Foundation has committed $500,000 over five

tion and access to explorations. It has also committed to a con-

years for explorations. Additionally, the Community Foundation

certed push to engage teachers and encourage them to apply for

and The Patterson Foundation are creating an EdExploreSRQ En-

explorations to benefit and inspire their students. Teachers design

dowment Fund to increase awareness and funding. The Patterson

learning adventures using visiting artists, classroom appearances by

Foundation will designate up to $3 million in matching funds to go

scientists or engineers, or educational field trips to local partners

into the Explorations endowment fund, matching dollar for dollar the

like Van Wezel, Mote Marine, Selby Gardens, Asolo, FST, Sarasota

Community Foundation's $500,000 investment as well as providing

Orchestra, and Ringling Museum.

a 2:1 match for all donations for existing and future explorations.

The goal of the initiative is to improve connections between the The Community Foundation will set up a rolling application pro-

classroom and community assets that better support Common Core

cess that enables teachers to apply for exploration funding throughout

and Next Generation Standards. To date, 36 organizations (with par-

the year. This “just in time” feature allows teachers to maximize the

ticipation by 25 teaching artists) posted 160 explorations that have

learning connections between an exploration and student lessons.

been vetted by the District curriculum leaders and linked to standards.

“Knowing how EdExplore opportunities enrich a student’s per-

“These activities are essential for a complete education,” said Sara-

spective, encourage creative thinking and problem-solving skills,

sota County Schools Superintendent Lori White. “Hearing an inspired

and tap in to the amazing cultural and environmental resources in

violinist or watching a dedicated marine biologist at work might be the

our community, the Community Foundation is proud to be a partner

spark that ignites a passion for learning or inspires a career. Experien-

in this exciting collaboration,” said Roxie Jerde, President and CEO

tial learning provides context for academic work. Explorations create

of the Community Foundation. “Ensuring resources are available for

lifelong memories and improve retention across all subject areas.”

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To increase access for lower-income students and schools, Exploration Grants were developed by the Education Foundation with matching support from The Patterson Foundation. Over the first two grant years (20112012 and 2012-2013), approximately 14,000 students benefited. Teachers are submitting scores of new applications to the Education Foundation this spring to launch projects during the 2013-2014 school year. The EdExplore Endowment Partnership emerged from the demand demonstrated for these grants – over 90 applications each year.

"From the day we launched this initiative to connect students with our local arts, science and cultural treasures in 2010, we knew we had to plan for EdExplore to thrive for years to come," said Debra Jacobs, president and CEO of The Patterson Foundation. "Our match commitment leverages the generosity of those passionate about everything from education to the organizations offering explorations in a way that will ignite student learning."

To make a tax-deductible donation and support explorations for Sarasota County students, please contact the Community Foundation at 941.955.3000 or call the Education Foundation at 941.927.0965. Gifts may also be made online at www.edfoundation.net. Every new and increased donation to the Education Foundation for Exploration Grants will be matched, dollar for dollar, by The Patterson Foundation.

ABOVE: Brookside Middle School students discover Selby Gardens, thanks to an Education Foundation Exploration Grant awarded to science teacher Rita Zywica. Education Foundation Exploration Grants are made possible by generous families, groups and businesses like this grant, funded by Achieva Credit Union. Photo by Daniel Perales.

LEFT: Alta Vista Elementary students discover the stars and the planets at Riverview Planetarium, thanks to an Education Foundation Exploration Grant awarded to teacher Kimberly Morris. Education Foundation Exploration Grants are made possible by generous local families, groups and businesses. New and increased gifts are matched, dollar for dollar, by The Patterson Foundation. For more information, visit www.EdFoundation.net or call 941-927-0965. Photo by Daniel Perales. scenesarasota.com

All I Really Need to Know I FORGOT from Kindergarten

Much-Needed Wisdom from the World of Kindergarten

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

In 1988, American minister Robert Fulghum published a book of fifty short essays that showed how adults and the adult world would fare better if the rules of kindergarten were followed throughout life.

Its title? All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten: Uncommon Thoughts on Common Things. This idea of taking basic school lessons and applying them to our lives regardless of our age still seems sound today.

With that in mind, the following bits of wisdom, advice, and humor come from current and former kindergarten teachers. Here’s some of the best of what they have to offer.

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Christine Jecko (formerly of Bent Tree Child Development Center) on lessons kids need to learn: “Oh my goodness, take a nap while you have a chance because as you get older, you have less and less time to do so. If someone told me tomorrow to drop everything I was doing and just go to my bed and SLEEP for 30 minutes, you bet I’ll be all over that.

Nap time is for just that. Napping. It’s a necessity.”

Kelly O’Brien (Tatum Ridge Elementary School) on lessons kids need to learn: “The first few weeks of school, I spend a lot of time teaching the children how to use our classroom bathroom and what it should look like when they come out of the bathroom. All children are seated by our bathroom door and I put on a funny show to let them know what the girls do when they go in and then what the boys do when they go in. They get the biggest kick out of me talking about why the boys need to lift the seat and put it back down when they are done! If they learn this lesson in kindergarten, it will make their lives easier as adults and none of the kinder boys that have been in my class will ever have an unhappy wife because they will make sure the seat is down and she never falls in!”

Catherine Dewes (formerly of Chicago Public Schools) on books adults should read or re-read: “The world could stand to learn something from The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf. Ferdinand was a bull that would much rather smell the flowers than partake in any bullfights, even when provoked. Life is too short for fighting. Smelling flowers is much more fun.”

Christine Jecko on books adults should read or reread: “The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle has a science lesson in it for sure. But the real lesson is this: excess in anything is never a good idea.”

Victoria Van Cleave (formerly of Holy Family School) on lessons kids need to learn: “To err is human, but to forgive is really, really, really hard. That’s why we must practice it often and with sincerity.”

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Kelly O’Brien on books President Obama should read: “I think President Obama should read What a Wonderful World by George David Weiss. It’s such a simple story that still has a big message. We all live on this planet, yet we are so different. If we all appreciated each other’s differences and benefits, it’d be a much better place to be.”

Victoria Van Cleave on books adults should read or re-read: “I can’t recommend Jacqueline Briggs Marti’s Caldecott-winning Snowflake Bentley enough. It’s the true story of a boy whose love for studying snowflakes becomes his life’s work. His parents then invest everything they have to support him. The lessons here? Dreams are vital. Plus, whenever possible, we should do what we can to support others who follow their dreams.”

Christine Jecko on lessons for government: “Every choice has a (natural) consequence. Even inaction has a consequence. Pointing fingers and blaming someone else doesn't solve a thing... whether you’re a kindergartener or a member of Congress.”

Kelly O’Brien on wishes for the world: “I would love for the world to see things through the eyes of a five year old. They have so much to learn, yet so much to teach adults. I love how children, at this age, are so accepting of others and don’t judge others by the way they look or act. If the world we live in could be as accepting and caring as these innocent children, it would be a much better place.”

If you’re at all like me, you find yourself nodding as you read the above, saying, “Yes, I know these things.” But these good, commons sense ideas somehow don’t always filter into the practice of my own life (much to my detriment). We’re not alone: even cartoon troublemaker Bart Simpson confesses on a chalkboard “I did not learn everything I need to know in kindergarten” in the episode “You Only Move Twice.” I can do better than Bart, though. We all can. Let’s let Fulghum himself offer a fine parting wish from the title essay of All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten: “Think what a better world it would be if we all — the whole world — had cookies and milk about three o’clock every afternoon and then lay down with our blankies for a nap. Or if all governments had as a basic policy to always put things back where they found them and to clean up their own mess. And it is still true, no matter how old you are — when you go out into the world, it is best to hold hands and stick together.”

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Scenes from an Interview:

Dr. Arthur Guilford

A Southern Gentleman and a Scholar

by Gus Mollasis

He loves to learn and it shows. He loves those who teach, those who are taught and to watch “his” University grow. At first glance you may think that this Regional Chancellor of the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee with a PhD is a stereotypical university leader concerned about letters and lofty titles, but that does not come close to describing this humble, kind, Southern gentleman named Arthur Guilford. He is a man of letters and titles for sure, but he is just as likely to sit down and handwrite a note of appreciation to someone who deserves the sentiment. Above all he is man who cares, tries and succeeds in emphasizing the importance of a good education to those smart enough to listen. As an educator he has an eye on the present day, enjoying all the hometown feel of the campus he presides over, and an eye on the future of USFSM, which continues to thrive under his devoted watch. Recently, I sat down with Dr. Arthur Guilford and we took a look at some of the scenes from an interview of his life.

Where were you born?

What was your best subject in school?

I was born in Montezuma, Georgia, but my family home has

Well this sounds like I’m bragging, but I didn’t have a worst

always been Tallahassee, Florida. My father was in the ser-

subject. I loved the sciences. I loved math. I had a very dif-

vice and my mother went to stay with her parents on almost

ficult time with my wife before we were married. We were

a plantation that they owned, so she just happened to be in

undergraduates together. She was just about to not graduate

Montezuma when I was born. I am a Florida boy.

from FSU because she could not pass Algebra. So I suggested that she try to pass it by correspondence and maybe I

As a child, did you like school or merely tolerate it?

Oh, I always loved school. As an elementary school student

could help her. I tutored her. I just loved learning and I still love it today.

I knew I was going to get a doctorate. I didn’t have a clue what it was going to be in, but I knew that I was going to

Where did you go to college and grad school?

have a PhD. I knew I was going to be a university professor.

I went to Florida State University for my undergraduate

I didn’t have any aspirations at the time of being a president

degree; Tulane for my Masters degree; and University of

of a university, but I knew was going to be involved with

Michigan for my doctorate, which I received in 1970.

university life. Out of my family, I am the first one to ever graduate from college. Both my mother and father went to

Paint me a typical “day in a life” during your college years.

college, as did my brother and sister, but no one ever fin-

I was very fortunate that I never had to work and go to

ished. But I kept going, and going and going. (laughing)

school. I went all the way through school on scholarships. I did work some weekends at an antique shop. I was the dust-

Did your parents stress the importance of a good education?

er. (laughing) I think it is why I appreciate antiques today. I

My father was a very successful businessman who stressed

was also an auctioneer from time to time. My typical day

the importance of being successful. My mother stressed the

would be getting up early. I have always been an early riser.

importance of being happy. So I just combined a natural

I am also the kind of person that many people hate because

instinct for learning with being happy and successful.

the minute my eyes are open, I am fully awake. When I am

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writing creatively, writing textbooks, I get up, my feet hit the

boy and throughout high school. As a child, I did chorus

floor, I walk into the library and I can start writing.

under her, and she is the one who got me into South Pacific at FSU playing the little boy. From that point on, I deeply

How long have you and your wife been married?

cared for her and cared for everything that she instilled

We have been married 42 years and this summer we will

in me. I stayed in touch with her over the years. When I

celebrate our 43rd anniversary.

went to Florida State, she became my French teacher, so I knew her when I was in elementary school and I knew her

What is the secret to a good marriage?

again when I was in college. Within my discipline, which

We’ve never gone to bed angry and we’ve never gone to bed,

is Speech Language Pathology, or Communications Dis-

unless one of us is sick, in another bed. We’ve had arguments. Oh

orders, I had many mentors throughout the years. I will

heavens, we’ve had arguments, usually around stressful points in

never forget what they gave me. The learning process was

life, but it’s never seemed worthwhile to take that to bed.

different when I was young. You have to realize, I was very young and skipped a year of high school. I graduated from

Tell me about your family and how you influenced their education.

high school at 16.

I have a son and daughter and six grandchildren. My son did not go to college and he wanted to be a contractor. My grand-

How did you find your way to Sarasota?

father was a very successful contractor throughout the South-

I have been with the University of South Florida for 37 years.

east. In fact, he was responsible for many landmark buildings

I was a department chair for 15 years at USF in Tampa, and

in the state of Florida including Sarasota High School. I guess

then I moved to the Dean’s Office where I was Associate

my son was a throwback to that, so he successfully got his

Dean for Faculty and Program Development for four years.

contractor’s license and is working for a very large construc-

In my fourth year, President Genshaft asked me if I would

tion firm. He’s doing fine and he is following his passion.

come to Sarasota and become the interim chancellor and

My daughter started at FSU and she got involved with a

chair the search committee for a new chancellor at USF

young man who has long since become her husband, but

Sarasota-Manatee. My initial response was, “Judy, you don’t

back then he wasn’t in school, so they played. So after four

have any idea how busy I am in the Dean’s office job.” I told

years, she didn’t have a degree. In fact, we were packed

her I didn’t think I could do that. She said, “I really need you

and ready to go to the commencement ceremonies at FSU,

to do this.” Of course I’m not going to disappoint the presi-

when she finally broke down and called us. She said, “Dad,

dent of the USF system, so I came down here. And in 2007

I’m not graduating.” So be it. She got married and has two

from January to May, I was the interim chancellor, head-

wonderful children. When they moved to Tampa she came

ing up the search committee. About March or early April, a

to me and said, “Dad, I want to go back to school. I want

group of faculty and staff wrote to President Genshaft and

to be admitted to USF. Will you help me?” I said no. I will

said we have the person we want. We want Dr. Guilford

introduce you to the people who will tell you what you have

to stay here. Well I didn’t know they were doing that. So

to do to get admitted. It is up to you. She said, “Dad will you

she called me and told me this happened and I asked her

pay for me to go back to school?” I told her I paid $60,000

what she wanted me to do. And she said, “You have to do

for you to go to school at FSU and you didn’t get a degree. I

what you want to do.” So I talked it over with my wife, and

said I would do a Guilford Scholarship. I will reimburse you.

she said, “Go ahead and throw your hat into the ring and

You will take out a loan and I will reimburse you for every

see what happens.” I resigned from being the chair of the

A and every B that you make. Of course the girl ended up

search committee and submitted all my credentials and I

with all A’s. And so I paid the loan and she graduated. And

interviewed just like anybody else did and in early May I

now in an interesting twist, she is seeking her Master’s de-

started in the permanent position here in Sarasota.

gree at USF Tampa in Speech Language Pathology, which is a discipline that both her mother and I chose. I could not be any more proud of her.

USFSM is…….

Your hometown comprehensive university.

Was there a teacher or professor who served as a mentor and

What do you hope the number one thing all of your stu-

greatly influenced your decision to become an educator?

dents take from their days at USFSM?

There have been so many in my life, but I will go back to

That they have learned critical thinking skills and they are

when I was about seven years old. There was a wonderful,

better citizens.

wonderful chorus teacher who later, when I was in college, would also become my French teacher. Her name is Carolyn Love Glenn. I did a lot of theater when I was a young

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How good of a university experience is this?

Educationally, you can’t do any better. I would put us up scenesarasota.com

against any institution in the United States. In terms of cam-

What is your favorite TV show?

pus life, we have a lot and we are missing a lot. We’re going

It used to be Will and Grace. I just adored that show. One of

to get there. We’re just about five years away from having

my escape shows is on the Food Network - Chopped. I love

that true campus life experience. We need athletic fields.

Chopped because it’s so bizarre.

We don’t have them. We’ve got Crew and it’s doing well.

Last year they didn’t rank at all and this year they ranked 8th

What does the statement “small enough to care and big

in Florida. We need to work very hard, not on our academic

enough to lead” mean to you?

programs, because they are top notch, but we need to work

I think it truly means what it says. We are small enough to

on our social life here. And this upcoming year we will be

care. We have a 15-1 student to faculty ratio. Ninety percent

admitting our first freshman class at USFSM.

of our professors have attained a PhD. We are big enough to lead because we really are the leader of a comprehensive

Finish the sentences…

university in this region. Ringling College is phenomenal

A good teacher is…

and they do a magnificent job educating in that niche. New

A good teacher is one that really cares.

College is phenomenal and they do a fantastic job educating in the Liberal Arts and Sciences. But we are a comprehen-

A good school is…

sive university and there’s a difference.

A good school is one that promotes learning, critical thinking and citizenship.

USFSM is referred to as your hometown campus with global impact. Please expand on that thought as it pertains to USFSM.

A good education guarantees you…

A good education guarantees you a life of success.

We have our faculty researcher scholars who travel all over the world. One of our students and a faculty member and research assistant are going to Africa this sum-

Sarasota is special because…

mer. Our dean of hospitality and technology leadership

You don’t have to be from Sarasota to be accepted. And it

recruits in Asia and all over the world. So we do have a

does have a rich culture. And when you are middle age to

global impact. And the scholars that we are educating can

old age as I am, I feel youthful and full of energy.

impact globally as well.

As you look at this University’s future, in what areas would

How important is to you that approximately 15,000 alumni

you like to see growth in the next 10 to 20 years?

live and work in the area as civic and business leaders?

We will develop a residential campus. We will develop

It shows that we’ve made a major impact on economic

more under-graduate and graduate programs. We have al-

development and on the quality of life in this region. To

ready started developing our Science curriculum. Our next

me that is very important. When you consider the rela-

development will be our Arts.

tively small size of this institution, about 4700 students, to have that many graduates who are living, working and

Describe your typical day on campus.

I’m up early. I come to campus early. I’m here late. First thing

who remain in this area is a very large impact and gives us a source of pride.

I do is turn on the computer and see how many hundreds of e-mails have come in. I do e-mail. I am still writing within

Is there a quote that you live by?

my discipline. I had a book that came out a couple of years

It’s probably “Be all that you can be.” I didn’t take this job

ago. I have a new chapter that’s coming out and I’ve written

just to be a little pebble in life’s bigger scheme where I’m

a couple of new chapters since I’ve been here. If I have time

going to jump from this university of 4700 students to one

during the day I work on creative scholarship writing. I wish

with 12,000 to one that has 47,000. This is the capstone

I could channel my writing skills to a saucy novel and really

to my career.

make some money for a change. (laughing) USFSM has worked toward attaining separate accreditation from What is your favorite book?

USF Tampa. Explain why that is important to the community.

I’ll tell you my favorite series of books and you are going to

It’s very important for the community and it was also put

laugh. Harry Potter. We love Harry Potter. In fact my wife

into a statute in 2002. What that means is that we become

and I love them so much that there were times, before we

the captains of our own ship. We can design and imple-

had our electronic readers, we would order two of them

ment our own programs. We can hire our own faculty

from Amazon. She would be sitting in one chair reading hers

without having to go through Tampa. We are separately

and I would be in the other chair reading mine.

funded. None of our money comes from Tampa. It really

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allows for us to be everything that the community needs for us to be.

You meet some high school students

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What is your favorite way to skip school and take a “Ferris Bueller” day off?

I meet some dear friends, usually in South Tampa. We have a great lunch

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go antique hopping all around South Tampa. And I love to go the antique

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a glass of good wine. And then we

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shops in Sarasota as well.

What do you hope your legacy will be here long after you have retired?

Book Publishing

Graphic Design

Tourism Business to Business

Appeals

Trade Show Marketing

Member Recruitment and Retention

hensive four-year university.

How do you keep everything balanced?

You know, I don’t stress about things I can’t change. And I don’t hold

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scenesarasota.com

EDUCATION

EDUCATION MATTERS

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

SCENE continues its community-centered focus by presenting some of the most exciting intellectual happenings taking place in our community. Education Matters focuses on the difference-making programs, events, teachers, and students of our area schools. This month, we proudly feature not a school but rather an event that acknowledges and honors some of our area’s most successful students — the 2013 Sarasota Regional Science, Engineering & Technology Fair and Awards Ceremony.

On April 30, 2013, at the Riverview High School Perform-

when I grew up,” he said, “but we did have Mr. Wizard.” Now

ing Arts Center, the School Board of Sarasota County’s Depart-

Mr. Wizard (a.k.a. Don Herbert) was a TV personality who

ment of Curriculum & Instruction, the Education Foundation

had his own show from 1951 to 1965, but the franchise came

of Sarasota County, and the Sarasota County Agricultural Fair

back from 1983 to 1991. Scalzi wasn’t alone in being heavily

Association partnered to present the 2013 Sarasota Regional

influenced by Mr. Wizard — those two series launched more

Science, Engineering & Technology Fair Awards Ceremony.

than 5,000 Mr. Wizard science clubs which had an estimated

Prior to this Awards Ceremony, Brad Porinchak, the fair’s

membership of more than 100,000 kids. Scalzi went on to say

director and the district’s science curriculum specialist, said

that Mr. Wizard provided such much-needed scientific expla-

that 724 Sarasota County students from 49 public, private,

nations as why we don’t all fly off the planet if it’s spinning so

and home schools submitted 623 individual and team proj-

fast or how the crack of a whip comes from the tip traveling

ects to the regional competition this year. More than 200

faster than the speed of sound, meaning that it produces a mini

volunteer judges determined the overall winners, winners

sonic boom. Billy Nye wrote in Herbert’s 2007 Los Angeles

in each of the categories, and recipients of special awards.

Times obituary that “Herbert’s techniques and performances

Judges reviewed and scored projects at the county-wide

helped create the United States’ first generation of homegrown

competition held at Robarts Arena in late January. First place

rocket scientists just in time to respond to Sputnik. He sent us

projects were featured at the Sarasota County Fair in March.

to the moon. He changed the world.”

One of the early highlights of the Awards Ceremony was

Scalzi added anecdotes about how he haunted the halls

when Master of Ceremonies, ABC 7’s meteorologist John

of science museums in St. Petersburg where he lived as a

Scalzi, spoke eloquently about his own connection to science

teen. In short, he was a science geek. But here’s the revela-

throughout his life. “We didn’t have Bill Nye the Science Guy

tion: it’s cooler than ever to be a science geek now, and not

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just because Best Buy works so hard to promote their Geek Squad. Our entire country is committed to STEM education (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). We’ve got TV shows lilke Naked Science, Planet Earth, The Universe, Storm Chasers, and Grossology. Plus we’ve got the incredibly popular TV show Mythbusters, which takes Mr. Wizard’s science experiment show format to an explosive extreme.

In short, science is cooler than ever before. Just ask the dozens of participants of the science fair itself who had intriguing, award-winning projects such as: • Atwater Elementary School’s Mikayla De Luca: “What Effect Does Different Types of Water Have on Plant Growth?”

Laura Breeze, Jennifer Colombo & Courtney Astore

• Pine View School’s Rocket Burns: “Wireless Energy Transfer, Science Fact or Fiction” • The Tabernacle Christian School’s Alexis Phelps: “Battle of the Brands: A Study in Perception” • Suncoast Polytechnical High School’s Megan Marcus: “Mathematical Correlation for Bioavailability of an Organic Substrate Based on its Lignin Content” • Sarasota High School’s Dylan Seeman: “Determining Optimal Relative Humidity and Condensation Volume for Electricity Build-up on Metal Surfaces Due to Spon-

Nancy Roberts & Brittany Wenger

taneous Water Self-Ionization and Absorption” • North Port High School’s Brandon Uveges: “Electrodynamics of Black Hole Magnetospheres” While quite a few young scientists, inventors, and engineers were honored at the Award Ceremony, two students in particular really stood out.

The Dart Foundation Award for Medicine & Health and a check for $1,000 went to Brittany Wenger, an Out-of-Door Academy senior who took first place in computer science for “Cloud4Cancer Tackles Genetic Expression Profiles to Diagnose Leukemia.” Wenger was the grand prize winner in Google's 2012 Science Fair and joined 100 students from more than 40 states at the 2013 White House Science Fair earlier last month. The Dart Foundation Inspiration Award of $1,000 was presented to Cardinal Mooney sophomore Courtney Astore for “Expressive Language Skills Outcomes in Children with Autism while Implementing the iPAD Application Proloquo2Go.” On May 12, Wenger and Astore represented the county at the five-day Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF). This marks a third trip for Wenger, who attended the Intel ISEF in Pittsburgh last year and won first place in her category. All expenses for travel, entry fees, and chaperone to participate in the Intel ISEF were paid for by private donors through the Education Foundation of Sarasota County.

Yes, readers, these are teenagers we’re talking about doing this incredibly important and potentially life-changing projects. For them, science IS cool. For us, too, science is cooler by the day. And with events like this to support and encourage tomorrow’s scientists, we all have a brighter future to look forward to.

For more on Brittany Wenger and her project, read the November 2012 issue of Scene Magazine’s Education Matters column. For more on Courtney Astore and her project, read the April 2013 issue of Scene Magazine‘s Education Matters column.

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2012/2013

SHOWSTOPPERS Photos by Cliff Roles

The social season kicked off in October and we barely had time for a breather until it ended in May. Ball gowns graced the red carpets, people opened their hearts and wallets, and SCENE social photographer Cliff Roles was the hottest paparazzi in town. Through the lens of the artist that he is, Cliff was there to capture every exciting moment. So let’s wrap things up by showcasing some of the best fashion, dÊcor & events from a season to remember.

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Sweetest Events Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s Key to the Cure This perennial social season kick-off event benefiting women’s cancer programs at SMH was marked by a sea of pink and the support of many queens of chic. There were also lots of sweet treats and sweeter guests. Pictured: Allison Silver Schwartz, Susan Jones & Sally Schule.

UCP’s Chocolate Sundae Event Held on a Sunday (what else!), guests were kept on a sugar high for hours on end. How decadent!

Sexiest Event Sarasota Exotic Car Fest Benefiting United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) From Bond girls to Lamborghinis, it was an event on steroids.

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Best “You Could Have Heard a Pin Drop” Moment

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CPC’s Blue Ties & Butterflies Gala

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Best Hat Event Mad Hatter Tea Party benefiting the American Red Cross The cream of Sarasota society wearing their best hats – how Palm Beach! Pictured left: Jennifer Dawes, Wendy Feinstein & Aimee Cogan Pictured below: Back row - Jennie Famiglio & Sarah Stern Front row - Susan Jones, Charlie Ann Syprett & Pam Swain

Best Casual Tent Event JFCS Celebrity Chefs Gala Great food, music, more than 700 people who all know one another, people donating as fast as their fingers could hit the Pay Pal phone – nobody does it better than Jewish Family & Children’s Services!

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Best Elegant Tent Event New College Inaugural Ball

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Starting with cocktails in the Charles Ringling Mansion then into the elegant tent with fabulous décor, everyone was smiling from start to finish.

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Best Dressed Events Conservation Foundation’s Palm Ball Themed “All Aboard for Conservation, the 5 event chairs were resplendent in beautiful blue & silver gowns while guests sparkled by the bay. Pictured: Janelle Beruff, Pauline Joerger, Cornelia Matson, Margaret Wise & Ariane Dart

Sarasota Opera Gala Themed “An Evening in the Forbidden City,” the event captured the essence of Turandot and the dazzling ladies did not disappoint! Pictured: Bud Borax, Elissa Soyka, Sandra & Erik Lindqvist.

Sarasota Orchestra Bravo Broadway/Leading Ladies Gala Guests dressed divinely at this extravagant salute to three special ladies who give so much to SO – Beathe Elden, Anne Folsom-Smith, and Bunny Skirboll. Pictured: Bunny Skirboll, Beathe & Gerald Elden.

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The Earliest Gala to Sell-Out JFCS Gala Every year, this fabulous event held at the Ritz-Carlton takes place mid-December and is sold out over 6 months in advance. It’s little wonder why. JFCS benefits services vital to our community and guests are treated to the sounds of Sarasota Orchestra. Pictured: 2012 event chairs Margie Barancik & Clare Segall.

Best Costume Events Ringling College’s An Evening at the Avant-Garde: A Novel Idea Well if RCAD doesn’t come up with a novel idea, who would? Larry and Pat Thompson (pictured) as Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson led the fun as guests dressed as their favorite literary characters.

Planned Parenthood’s Safe Sex Halloween Bash Every year it gets better and better. We don’t know of any other Halloween party in town with more creative costumes. Pictured left: Jan Chester & Veronica Pastore. scenesarasota.com

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Best Events for Entertainment Sarasota Ballet Gala - Encore, The Dance Goes On

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Guests were spellbound by the breathtaking outdoor performances featuring extracts from a varied selection of Ballets. Bravo Iain Webb, event chair Sydney Goldstein, and everyone at Sarasota Ballet for an outstanding gala and season!

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But of course! Our circus royalty, Dolly Jacobs and Pedro Reis did not disappoint! FUN! FUN! FUN!

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Can Dance benefiting Community Aids Network GSHSC Executive Director Phil King (above) dressed as the Rhinestone Cowboy doing flips and dips. Bambi Famous-Kaine shimmied as well as any contestant on Dancing with the Stars. Lawdy, lawdy, lawdy!

Chill Lounge – Valentine Night with Jon Secada Chill Lounge founder Rainer Scheer delivered this romantic pairing for lots of love birds to enjoy. That’s the stuff from which babies are made!

Best Beach Event Children First’s Flip Flops & Fashion Luncheon This fun event benefiting one of our most beloved and vital organizations is definitely the place to get your feet wet on the social scene. Pictured: Janis Fawn, Georgann Nugent, Barbara Bingham, Kelly Romanoff, Noni Lavelle, Kelly Dowd & Beth Luberecki.

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Best Corporate Event PNC Rectrix Reception PNC Wealth Management held a lavish reception at Rectrix Aerodrome, where guests hopped aboard the latest in corporate jets and high-performance cars.

Best Royal Event Junior League of Sarasota Legacy Luncheon The Junior League of Sarasota Legacy Luncheon featured the former chef Darren McGrady (pictured left) of Princess Diana and the Royal Family who entertained the crowd of JL supporters with intimate stories of Diana, William, Harry and the lot. Deliciously divine!

Best Re-invented Event Out-of-Door Academy Banyan Bash Out-of-Door Academy went back to its roots changing its annual Banyan Ball to the Banyan Bash.

Glittering lights, café style dining and lots more made this ODA fundraiser a very special evening.

Best Awards Luncheon Community Video Archives Luncheon If you weren’t at the Community Video Archives luncheon, then you weren’t in the right place. Community icon Annette Scherman (pictured left) always gets the crème de la crème of Sarasota society at this much-anticipated annual event honoring community champions. Well done! scenesarasota.com

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Fashion

Margaret Wise

Beth Cannata

Sydney Goldstein

Wendy Feinstein

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Beth Silverstein

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Celebrity Corner

Lots of famous faces arrived on the scene and Cliff Roles was there to capture the excitement.

Dylan McDermott was a guest of the Ringling College Digital Filmaking Studio Lab

Cheryl Hines & Peter Bogdanovich starred in Pasadena, which premiered at the 2013 Sarasota Film Festival.

Marc Anthony delivered the commencement speech to Ringling College class of 2013.

Timeless Beauty

Our Community is blessed by these three great and beautiful ladies who have made a difference in all of our lives.

Bea Friedman

Betty Schoenbaum Lee Peterson

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SOCIAL

Behind the Scene

Society Maven Debbi Benedict Gives the Latest Scoop

scenesarasota.com

For my recap of the 2012-2013 Social

I won’t even talk about the men. There

Season, I would like to do it just a tad

are a few who add a colorful jacket or an

differently. See you what you think, Poodle.

ascot, but I have mentioned them before.

Everyone is always all a twitter about

Can Sarasota men please add some dash and

who will be voted best dressed of the season.

flavor to their traditional tux or suit? Not that

I know a few who actively work at it. This

you have to go all Bruce Lesser color crazy,

year, instead of who wore the most designer

because only he can pull that off, but add just

gowns or who looked the most traditionally

a touch of something special. Please, it will

glamorous, I would like to honor those who

make me so happy.

have real individual style, those who no one

Good to great events were all around. I

else could copy even if they tried because

must say that this year I felt like Sarasota was

these stylish femmes speak their own fashion

getting back into her gala groove. Several

language. A few I can always count on to

really top-notch glamour events happened.

surprise and tickle me are Jacqueline Morton,

In the past few years it seemed like we were

Elisabeth

and

getting away from black-tie events, but I am

Deborah Blue. These women know who they

so glad to report we are back to wearing our

are and they stick with it. And then there are

swishy ball gowns, sparkly diamonds, and

these women who could use a little fashion

luxurious furs in full force!

Waters,

Renee

Hamad,

savvy advice – oops, sorry, that was the part

Black-tie winners for me were the events

that I edited out, but you know who you are

that had a performance attached to their

so call me. I can help.

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little more special – Jewish Family and Children’s Services’

For pure luncheon dazzle, I so enjoyed the Women

Magical Moments Gala with the Sarasota Orchestra performing;

Resource Center’s Magical Time Luncheon with author Kitty

Sarasota Orchestra’s Leading Ladies Gala with the orchestra

Kelly, WEDU’s Downton Abbey Luncheon previewing the

again performing, but this time with Broadway stars singing

show’s premiere, and the Junior League Sustainers’ Legacy

tunes; Sarasota Opera’s Winter Gala with goose-bump inducing

Luncheon with royal chef, Darren McGrady.

arias performed; and Sarasota Ballet’s Gala with the always

There are lots of smaller type events that don’t seem to

terrific ballet dancers in an enchanting outdoor setting. The two

get a lot of press or attention, but grow better and better each

traditional black-tie events that I found really beautiful just on

year. This year’s “Little Luncheon that Could” is Samaritan

their own were the Conservation Foundation’s Palm Ball and the

Counseling Service’s Women Helping Women event. I have

New College Inaugural Gala. Both were held “on campus” and

attended this luncheon the past few years and it is a gem, this

took advantage of their glorious mansion surroundings.

year especially so.

Joyful was the word to express the overall feeling when

For pure size and buzz, it has to be Sarasota Museum of

describing Community AIDS Network’s CANDance and WBTT’s

Art’s Inaugural Bash. I don’t know how they will ever top that

Jukebox 50’s Revue. At the CANDance, local celebrities were

event. With the twig sculpture being erected in the front of the

dancing on the stage and at the WBTT event, they were dancing

venue, drawing all sorts of media leading up to the event, and

at their seats, unable to contain themselves when the energetic

the reasonable ticket price, it was a must-do event for many of

and playful music was pumping.

the bold-faced names of the community.

Music played a integral part at three of my favorite events

Season tent-pole events honoring the best of Sarasota – AFP’s

– The Hermitage Artist Retreat’s Artful Lobster, where flutist

Philanthropy Day luncheon and Community Video Archive’s Hall

Claire Chase performed music that took my breath away with

of Fame luncheon, along with the one in the middle, NCJW’s

its’ inventiveness; La Musica’s Sonata A Due with the gracious

Women in Power luncheon, always inspire and where many of

and charming piano and violin duo in a holiday setting; and

our leading and most deserving citizens are honored. These are

Sarasota Orchestra’s Season Opener Brunch with its exuberant

always such feel-good events and aren’t we lucky that we never

centerpieces and thrilling musical performances.

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The main fuel of our glittering social season is money – and lots of it.

Without the sponsors and donors there would basically be no social season.

Both of our area’s largest foundations – Gulf Coast Community Foundation and Community Foundation of Sarasota County regularly sponsor many, many events and also connect donors to organizations for all those matching paddle raises. Generous corporations, including many financial institutions such as PNC Wealth Management, SunTrust, Northern Trust, and Bank of America’s US Trust, not only give funds, but also supply many of the guests! It’s very interesting to watch the hierarchy of who attends from which foundation or corporation at each event to ascertain the importance of said event. Will Teri or Roxie’s husbands attend or are they coming with Veronica and Jocie? Are Phil and Julie or Scott and Kelly coming or just various wealth managers? It is definitely a hot-bed of intrigue!

Of course, all of these terrific events



would never be successful without a few key people in town. I absolutely adore the catering staff at Michael’s On East led by the magnificent Tracey McCammack, Henry Alberico, and Douglas Noppe. The always accommodating catering staff at the Ritz Carlton is top notch including James Harries and Kathe Nasby. Valet impresario, Southwest Parking’s Rodney Tregambo keeps the car line flowing and the “voice” of many events, the sweet as pie and oh so excellent, Brent Greeno, from Sights and Sounds round out the group of folks event chairs can’t live without.

I

know

I

have

written



                 

about

this before, but it really needs to be addressed before next season – valet parking. First of all, yes, I know the





valet, you can certainly walk, but really,

 

Poodle, this is Sarasota. Look at the



argument about if you don’t want to

audience. Many attendees are older and scenesarasota.com

 June 2013

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to walk a significant distance is just not a feasible option. Then there is the fact that we are a dressed-up kind of bunch. Who “Racey glows with a wondeRfully goofy, fRee-wheeling glee that gives spontaneity...bRinging to mind a baby-faced Ray bolgeR.”

now playing thRough June 16

wants to walk a long distance in high heels or arrive with frizzy or flat hair when it is sweltering with humidity? Also, at three luncheons I attended at a facility were you must valet, it was

—THE NEW YORK TIMES

pouring rain. Face it – we are a valet kind of town and we have to make this part of the event work.

No chair or organization wants people to arrive all in a huff because they had to wait forever to valet and even worse, no one wants their guests’ last thoughts about the event to be miserable or worse, angry, because they had to wait too long to get their car. To me, up to 15 minutes is a realistic time to wait

woRld pRemieRe

for your vehicle. More than that and people start to get testy.

If you need to employ more valet people to make that happen, then just do it! It is a minimal cost in the overall scheme of things. Another idea to help with this dilemma is to offer self parking at an open lot with trolley transportation to the event site. These suggestions go for specific event venues and for offsite venues. I had terrible experiences at both types this year.

WRITTEN, cONcEIvED & cHOREOgRapHED BY

pHOTO BY JOHN REvISKY

DIREcTED BY

noah Racey Jeff calhoun

When this is all fixed next year, you can thank me.

Let me add one more thought…I attended an evening event at The Francis and may I suggest hiring valet for that venue, especially for an evening event? The parking garage is very convenient there, so distance and availability are not the

STaRRINgpReRegional maRy testa mieRe

TONY-NOMINaTED acTRESS SEEN laST SEaSON IN Love, Loss & What I Wrote

issues. As a woman alone, I felt uneasy going into a city parking garage alone at night, even though it was well-lit. Also, I spoke to a couple of older woman with canes and walkers, and it would have been much more convenient and easier for them if there was the option of valet at the door. Not a huge problem, just a thought...

In the past, I have wondered who are the newcomers willing to step up and chair future events. Never fear, it looks like we have several who are willing and able. I noticed certain

“absolutely, positively bRilliant” —SOuTHaMpTON pRESS

Regional pRemieRe

chairs stepping up in big ways like Chris and Aimee Cogan, Mindy and Wayne Rollins, Anne Weintraub, Kelly Gettel, and Diana Kelly - soon to be Buchanan, to name just a few, who are chairing major events. Phew! At least I am relieved to know there will be no chairmanship shortages with these new shining

BY

geRaldine aRon DIREcTED BY

June 26 - July 14

pREvIEWS JuNE 23 & 25

michael donald edwaRds

stars coming to the forefront!

I am happy to say that another season has wrapped up spectacularly! Next month will be my “Summer Reading” column for all of you ready to relax by the pool or curled up in a chair and read to your heart’s content. It definitely is time for a break!

Until next time….TaTa!

foR ticKets call 941.351.8000 oR visit asoloRep.oRg 76

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Debbi Benedict is SCENE’s society maven and Special Issues Director.

Contact Debbi at 941-483-4460 or debbibenedict@verizon.net. scenesarasota.com

GIVING

By Joy Weston

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

“The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.”

– Eleanor Roosevelt Yippee, hooray, and halleluiah, June has arrived in all her

between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”)

glory! This glorious month named after Juno, wife of Jupiter

in 10 communities on the Sun Coast, BBBSSC has been

and goddess of marriage and childbirth, has the longest day

able to develop positive relationships that have direct

in the Northern Hemisphere, more celebratory events, and

and lasting effects. Recently the organization hosted its

is considered the “happiest” of all months as the scent of

“Love Boat” Gala, and love was absolutely in the air. Ev-

honeysuckle waives through the air. Now before I gush on,

eryone at their table united and gave what they could to

I want my loyal readers who missed the opportunity to in-

assist toward the success of a child – that’s philanthropy

dulge in the “May 1st morning dew” to know you now have

at its finest.

another chance! A loyal reader wrote to me saying that

BBBSSC Board Chair, Patricia Entsminger, CPA, CFE

according to Icelandic folklore, you can also keep aging at

with Kerkering, Barberio & Co. told me, “In 2010,

bay if you bathe naked in the morning dew of June 24th.

I joined Big Brothers Big Sisters as a mentor in the

There you go, but just be careful where you get your dew.

Decision to Win Program. I knew I wanted to volun-

Our police force isn’t large enough to monitor mass calls

teer after I was moved by the story of how a child’s

for indecent exposure! LOL, as they say!

life had been altered as a result of the interaction

June, my birth month, is considered the most desirous and

with their Big. For three years I experienced how

eagerly anticipated months by many, including lots of local

much the mentor relationship and interaction not

nonprofits that take some down time to regroup for an even

only affects the children, but the mentors as well. It

bigger and better season. But several organizations, which

was a wonderful experience and extremely reward-

I will share with you here, do keep going, thank goodness,

ing. The organization is great, and the staff makes it

as they provide vital human services in our community or

painless to volunteer with their support and knowl-

provide pleasure and cultural enhancement.

edge of the programs.”

“To be in your children’s memories tomorrow, you have to be in their lives today.”

“The essence of all beautiful art, all great art, is gratitude.”

– Friedrich Nietzsche

– Anonymous The other day I gave myself the gift of an entire day at For more than 43 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the

The Ringling Museum of Art. I felt as if I had gone to an-

Sun Coast has been operating under the belief that in-

other world. I began with a guided tour of the Ca' d'Zan,

herent in every child is the ability to succeed and thrive

imagining that John and Mable were waiting to greet me

in life, and by making meaningful, monitored matches

with a glass of champagne as I strolled through their daz-

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zling palatial mansion, described as “the last of the Gilded

Selby Gardens because, “Selby is a little island. It’s

Age mansions built in America,” filled with art and original

something that should be preserved and needs to be

furnishings. After walking through the beautiful gardens, I

supported. I would urge others to support things in

clowned my way through the fascinating Circus Museum,

life that give them pleasure.”

in preparation for the annual Summer Circus Spectacular opening June 18 through August 3 at the Historic Asolo Theater, presented in collaboration with Circus Sarasota.

After a delicious lunch at the Museum’s Treviso Restaurant, I went on to appreciate the latest photography exhibit (Herb Ritts) and the incredible varied collections of art through-

“For most of history, man has had to fight nature to survive; in this century he is beginning to realize that, in order to survive, he must protect it.”

– Jacques-Yves Cousteau

out. Summertime at the Ringling Museum is filled with a variety of rich experiences and programs for all ages, and trust me when I say; your day and mind will be filled with memories worth savoring.

As Dave and Betty Emison, Circle Level Curator Members so appropriately shared, “We believe that Ringling Museum and all of its venues are gems of this community. We moved to this area seven years ago because of the culture; we want to do our part to see that it continues to thrive.”

Thanks to Mote Marine Laboratory’s dedication to marine research and conservation here and around the world, our waters and their inhabitants are protected. If you visit its fabulous public aquarium, opened 10 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., 365 days a year and hosted by specially trained volunteers who are on hand to answer questions about the animals and marine habitants right here in our backyard, you will learn a lot. Mote also offers a variety of summer camps for the youngins and educational programs for all ages. Don’t

“God Almighty first planted a garden.

And indeed, it is the purest of human pleasures.”

– Francis Bacon

miss out on World Oceans Day — a celebration of our world’s oceans — from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., June 8 in Mote’s Aquarium at 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway.

Dwight Davis has been a long-time Mote volunteer, who also supports the organization through charitable giving. “The more I do as a volunteer, the more it satis-

Another magical place that allows my spirit to soar

fies me to contribute to Mote,” The work taking place

every time I visit is Selby Gardens, so beautiful and so

today in Mote’s many research programs has earned

serenely calming. Besides its many exciting educational

worldwide recognition and respect, and these efforts

programs, from mind/body activities in the Gardens to art

contribute importantly to the conservation of marine

and horticultural offerings, there is truly something for ev-

resources everywhere. Whatever you give to support

eryone. Always a community favorite not to be missed is

Mote today will live on long after you — and do the

their Tropical 4th of July fireworks party, which also will

world a power of good.”

give us a chance to check out the construction progress

I once read that “a life without love is like a year without

on the new Ann Goldstein Children’s Rainforest Garden,

summer,” and to miss out on the wonderful gifts that come

expected to open this fall. How cool is that?

during this special time in our community feels the same.

Beverly Koski, a key supporter of the Children’s Rain-

It is special in the way one tries to describe a succulent

forest Garden project and longtime supporter of Sel-

peach or a smooth glass of wine – you simply have to ex-

by’s educational programming, told me she supports

perience it yourself. En-JOY!

Joy Weston is an International Best-Selling Author, Inspiring Speaker, Communications Coach, and a devotee of making a difference. Contact Joy@JoyWeston.com.

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cene

LITERARY S

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

This month’s first featured author will be known by many — from 2003 to 2011, Pam Iorio

was the mayor of Tampa. Her book, Straightforward: Ways to Live & Lead (MCG Books, softcover, 152 pages, $9.95), is a compilation of the best ideas on leadership she learned over her years in office. What does she know about leadership? She successfully ran the 54th largest city in the US and left the office after two terms with an 87 percent approval rating. During her time as mayor, crime decreased by almost 62 percent and the city’s financial reserves tripled despite the recession. Now Iorio is a sought after public speaker who appears on such venues as CNN, FOX News, and The Today Show.

Straightforward is written just like it sounds — clearly, precisely, and straight to the point. It’s heartening to know that even though we have a clear leadership crisis in this country, Iorio says anyone can learn to be a leader. Some of the attributes that need to be cultivated? Honesty, directness, and respect.

Perhaps some of what people like about Iorio is her positive attitude. When asked about what’s next for her, she says, “I will continue to help others see their leadership potential. Our country becomes stronger when people see themselves as responsible for making the world a better place though business, government, non-profits, or community.” That’s the type of message we all can use. And her book gives plenty of practical steps on how to overcome challenges and find the ability to lead within yourself.

For more information on Pam Iorio or Straightforward: Ways to Live & Lead, please visit www.pamiorio.com This month’s second featured author is Glennon Doyle Melton, perhaps best-known for her popular blog Momastery.com where she shared brave, witty essays on her own life. Her subjects?

Anything and everything. As a former addict, she’s won some hard lessons about this brutiful (“beautiful” plus “brutal”) life. Sure, she felt awkward and unworthy and exposed. She felt naked.

She didn’t want to walk through life’s battlefield like that, but she did. And she brings readers along with her because she documents the most important moments and truth-discovering times of her life in writing. That’s what you find in Carry On, Warrior (Scribner, hardcover, 270 pages, $25).

Among the many pieces included in this compelling, honest book are “Don’t Carpe Diem,” the piece which went viral and made Melton a household name. Here’s a taste of it:

... I have finally allowed myself to admit that it just doesn’t work for me. It bugs me. This CARPE DIEM message makes me paranoid and panicky. Especially during this phase of my life while I’m raising young kids. Being told, in a million different ways, to CARPE DIEM makes me worry that if I’m not in a constant state of profound gratitude and ecstasy, I’m doing something wrong.

Did I mention that the book is funny? I mean side-splittingly funny? While doling out wisdom and hope and truths, she’s reminding us that the journey of life is a reward in itself. So grab a copy of the New York Times bestselling Carry On, Warrior, and learn how to drop your weapons and start living again.

For more about the Glennon Doyle Melton or Carry On, Warrior, please visit www.Momastery.com

Classics Revisited A classic book is a classic book no matter where it’s set, and this month’s classic book is definitely not a Florida book but Las Vegas Noir (Akashic Books, softcover, 320 pages, $15.95) is a terrific read nonetheless. Since the Akashic Books noir series launched in 2004, I’ve been a fan. I like the idea of exploring a city through literature with each story being set in a distinct neighborhood or location — what a great idea! Why this book though and not one of the others in the series? This anthology of original short fiction set in sin city has some of the best stories the entire scenesarasota.com

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series has to offer.

Editors Jarret Keene (author of Monster Fashion and The Underground Guide to Las Vegas) and Todd James Pierce (author of Woman of Stone and Newsworld) know the city’s moods and mysteries.

While every story in this anthology is worth a read, there are three real standouts in my mind. Vu Tran’s “This or Any Desert” is a dynamite tale of an Oakland cop who heads to Vegas to avenge his ex-wife, who was abused by her new husband. Pablo Medina’s “Benny Rojas and the Rough Riders” tells the story of a Cuban exile striving to find a new life on the steamy streets of Sin City but ends up

Dakkak

running into trouble with the mob. And there’s “The Tik” by John O’Brien, the author of three novels including Leaving Las

Insurance

Vegas. In this story, a couple gets self-destructive on the strip in an entertaining fashion.

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

Still, all three sections of this fine anthology — “Sin City,” “Neon Grit,” and “Tales from the Outskirts” — have gems that are sure to please any reader. I mean, c’mon — where else are you going to find

Full-Service Agency: • Auto • Life

• Home • Retirement

941-921-6630 | www.dakkakinsurance.com George & Mary Dakkak

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“Protecting you is our family business.”

stories about killer ostriches, two-bit magicians, and a former hitman who now works as a rabbi? Las Vegas Noir has it all. In spades, of course.

For more information on Las Vegas Noir, please visit akashicbooks.com/catalog/las-vegas-noir

scenesarasota.com

HEALTH MATTERS

Less Pain, More Gain Hysterectomies & Robotic Surgery

By A. (Jothi) Jothivijayarani, M.D., Blake Medical Center

For some, the term “robotic surgery,” may conjure up images of R2-D2 or some other mechanical character wielding a scalpel. Yet in reality, robotic surgery relies on the expertise and trained hands of a skilled surgeon – it just serves to make those hands more capable, precise and consistent.

A. Jothivijayarani, MD Obstetrics & Gynecology, Family Medicine HealthCare America Medical Group 3501 Cortez Road West Bradenton, FL 34210 (941) 752-2828

In fact, the robotic systems such as those at Blake Medical Center enhance a surgeon’s ability to perform complicated procedures in ways that are highly effective and far less invasive than traditional techniques. The result for patients is less blood loss during surgery and faster, less painful recoveries.

So how does robotic surgery work? Anyone who’s ever used a joystick to maneuver a video game should have a pretty good sense of the mechanics behind the technology. Instead of directly moving instruments by hand, a surgeon guides a robotic arm, often mirroring the normal movements associated with the surgery.

Since first being trained in 2009, I‘ve performed hundreds of robotic surgeries. Increasingly, I’ve grown to be a strong advocate for the approach, particularly in my specialty of gynecology. Although not every case calls for robotic surgery, it often proves to be the best option for many patients.

Nowhere is this upside more apparent than when it comes to hysterectomies. Traditional surgery, known as open hysterectomies, typically require four to six weeks recovery time. During recovery, the patient deals with a painful incision, which often extends the length of the lower belly, and leaves an unsightly scar.

With robotic hysterectomy surgery, recovery time shrinks to two to three weeks, and sometimes less. Not only that – instead of the long, painful incision, the robotic surgery requires only a few dime-sized cuts that are less painful, less prone to infection, and barely noticeable over time. No one wants to have surgery, but the fact that this technique can reduce the pain and long-term scarring makes the experience considerably less traumatic for many patients.

The technological advancements in robotic surgery have been dramatic – leading to a decline in open hysterectomy surgeries. And the robotic technology is being developed and refined for a range of surgical disciplines. For instance, at Blake Medical Center patients now have the option of a single incision gallbladder surgery. I suspect that in the near future, the number of incisions required in gynecological surgeries will decline as well.

If you face the prospect of surgery, I recommend you discuss the options with your doctor. Those patients who are not aware of the robotic options, soon come to understand the potential benefits.

Such was the case of a busy career woman who was a patient of mine. A financial professional, the woman was in the midst of the tax season crush, but her condition required surgery. A traditional approach would have likely put her out of commission for up to two months. I performed robotic surgery and within a few days she was working from home. A week later, she was back at the office.

While patients need to be careful not to return to activity too soon, the case provides a prime example of how robotic surgery offers less painful alternative that allows them to return to their normal life in relatively short order.

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LOCALLY

NEWS SHAPING

OUR COMMUNITY GULF COAST COMMUNITY FOUNDATION AWARDS GRANT TO SUNCOAST COMMUNITIES BLOOD BANK

Gulf Coast Community Foundation has awarded Suncoast Communities Blood Bank (SCBB) $26,000 toward the purchase of BIO-key TruDonor, an automated donor check in identification system. TruDonor provides the ability to identify blood donors, while protecting privacy, and provides a fast, convenient and reliable way for blood and platelet donors to check in and register. www.scbb.org | www.gulfcoastcf.org

RE/MAX PLATINUM REALTY OPENS GLOBAL NEW HOMES DIVISION RE/MAX Platinum Realty, a luxury real estate brokerage with five offices in Sarasota and Manatee counties, has opened a Global New Homes Division. The division will provide international sales support to builders and developers, starting with those in the Sarasota, Bradenton and Venice market. Heading the new division is Global New Homes Sales Manager Teresa Witte, who brings more than 20 years of experience in new homes sales and management. www.platinumrealtyflorida.com

EMPLOYEES DEDICATE PARK IN SARASOTA MEMORIAL’S NEW COURTYARD TOWER COMPLEX Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Employee Partners in Caring (EPIC) campaign, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held in the west courtyard of Sarasota Memorial’s new Courtyard Tower complex. The new outdoor courtyard of the Tower was named “EPIC Park” in honor of the hundreds of employees at Sarasota Memorial Health Care System who have contributed to the Employee Partners in Caring (EPIC) Campaign over the past ten years. More than $600,000 has been donated for continuing education for staff, equipment and technology that benefit patients and hospital staff on a daily basis. www.smh.com

MANATEE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES $2.7 MILLION LEGACY GIFT The Manatee Community Foundation has received a legacy gift from the estate of Maryann Vinall of $2.7 million. Maryann and her husband Bill retired to Bradenton in 2000 and were very active members of the Freedom Village Community. Maryann created her Legacy Fund at MCF in 2001 to support her love of animals. The Bill and Maryann Vinall Fund will not only support animal welfare programs, but will also support wildlife rescue and “therapy” programs such as service dogs, horseback riding therapy programs, and therapy programs featuring pets visiting nursing homes and senior residences. www.manateecf.org

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GOODWILL MANASOTA WELCOMES TWO NEW BOARD MEMBERS

Steve Boone, chairman of the board of directors of Goodwill Manasota, welcomed Dr. Richard G. Wharton and Alan Maio as new members of the board. Alan Maio is Principal for Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc., where he oversees planning and pre-construction process at the local, county, state and water management district level.

Dr. Richard G. Wharton serves, in various positions, on numerous area boards. Goodwill Manasota’s board of trustees includes Steve Boone, chair; Dave Bassett, Marlow Cook, Peter Crowley, Debbie Douglas, Rick Fawley, Andy Gregory, Stu Gregory, Don Lawson, Charlie Lenger, Art McClellan, John McKay, Bob Morris, Rob Morris and Drayton Saunders. ww.ExperienceGoodwill.org

SMH AND VENICE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER WIN BLUE DISTINCTION FOR SPINE SURGERY & TOTAL KNEE/HIP JOINT REPLACEMENT Both Sarasota Memorial Health Care System and Venice Regional Medical Center received the highest level of distinction by Florida Blue, Florida’s Blue Cross and Blue Shield company, as high performing hospitals for quality and efficiency in spine surgery and total hip/ knee joint replacements. This is a national designation awarded by Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies to medical facilities that have demonstrated expertise in delivering quality specialty care – and has recently been expanded to include more robust quality measures focused on improved patient health and safety as well as new costefficiency measures. www.smh.com | www.veniceregional.com

USF SARASOTA-MANATEE SIGNS AGREEMENTS WITH SCF AND RCAD Educational leaders and administrators from USF SarasotaManatee, State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota and Ringling College of Art and Design signed memos of understanding creating an “Artist-to-Teacher” program. USFSM Regional Chancellor Dr. Arthur Guilford, SCF President Dr. Carol F. Probstfeld and RCAD President Dr. Larry Thompson praised the creation of a plan that allows arts students to seamlessly transition to teacher preparation programs. After completing their undergraduate degree at RCAD or taking arts courses at SCF in various fields, students can enroll at USFSM’s College of Education and within two years, receive either a bachelor’s or a master’s degree and be certified as public school teachers for elementary positions in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. The “Artist-to-Teacher” program builds on existing partnerships with the Sarasota and Manatee school districts, ensuring that the children of our region are exposed to the most effective and inspiring teaching methods possible. www.usfsm.edu | www.scf.edu | www.ringling.edu scenesarasota.com

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