June2016

WHO’S SELLING WHAT?

REAL ESTATE BY THE NUMBERS

PLYMOUTH HARBOR CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

Selling the Beach

REALTOR MICHAEL HOLDERNESS HUNTS DOWN BEACHFRONT PROPERTIES FOR HGTV

JUNE 2016 $3.95 U.S.

One-Half to Full Acre Homesites Preserve and Lake Lots Available 80% Sold Out • Gated Community Private Roads • No CDD Fees

Minutes from Lakewood Ranch and UTC

The Avianna

Verona

Dominica II

The Concession Real Estate Co., Inc. 8305 Lindrick Lane, Bradenton, FL 34202 941.388.0501 theconcessionrealestate.com

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If you are serious about your financial future you should know the ANSWERS to these four questions . . .

1.

What rate of return do you have to earn on your savings and investment dollars to be able to retire at your current standard of living and have your money last through your life expectancy?

2.

How much do you need to save on a monthly or annual basis to be able to retire at your current standard of living and your money last till life expectancy?

3.

Doing what you are currently doing, how long will you have to work to be able to retire and live your current lifestyle till life expectancy?

4.

If you don’t do anything different than you are doing today, how much will you have to reduce your standard of living at retirement for your money to last to your life expectancy?

We can give you these answers in 9 1/2 minutes.

When do you want to know?

Joni Rametta, Len Leetzow & Mark Clark of Wealth Planning & Design LLC

Go to WealthWithScene.com or call us at 941.361.1484

ealth Planning and Design LLC

Real Estate June 2016

Volume 59 No. 6

42

50

42 PLYMOUTH HARBOR ON SARASOTA BAY Celebrates 50 Years

By Sue Cullen

50 SELLING THE BEACH

55

Realtor Michael Holderness Hunts Down Beachfront Properties for HGTV

By Sue Cullen

55 MASTERFULLY BUILT A Tale of Two Harbor Acres Homes

By Jacqueline Miller

60 SOLD The Year in Real Estate by the Numbers

65 REALTORS OF DISTINCTION Profiles of Local Realtors

COVER Photo of Realtor Michael Holderness of SaraBay Real Estate by John Joseph Revisky. Clothes by Martin Freeman. Children from left to right: Miles Nowadly, Walker Grande, Peter Liashek, Jaden Tassotti-Edbrooke, Shelby Liashek, Bryn Nutter.

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DEPARTMENTS

72

26

SOCIALS

72 SCENES FROM AN INTERVIEW

16 Designing Daughter’s Annual Gala 17 Ear Research Foundation Kentucky Derby Fundraiser 18 Dick Vitale Gala 25 2016 Concession Cup 30 26th Anniversary Gala Inn of Court 31 CVA Hall of Fame Luncheon 39 SMHF’s 15th Annual Golf Tournament 71 JFCS Tribute to Veterans Service Awards Luncheon

A Writer with a Knack for the Right Words Author William “Bill” Nack

20 EVENTS CALENDAR

81 THE BUZZ AROUND TOWN

By Gus Mollasis

79 EDUCATION Community Building A New Career Resource Center at the Boys & Girls Clubs

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

With Sarasota’s Busiest Bee Suzette Jones

22 PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR 26 GET INSPIRED Cultural Happenings from the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

85 LITERARY SCENE

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

HEALTH 88 What’s Hot in Plastic Surgery

GIVING

By Scott J. Engel, M.D.

34 A Reason For Hope Dr. Jason Quintal

89 Preventing Hearing Loss

By Andrew Marlowe, M.D.

By Steven J. Smith

36 An Art-Filled Life Jonathan Coleman and Rick Kerby

By Steven J. Smith

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90 REWIND A Look Back Through SCENE’s Archives

Superheroes

on Parade

Most days, the canine trainees at Southeastern Guide Dogs look like your average pooch. But the truth is, for their human companions, they’re superheroes—all trained right here in your backyard. To honor the heroic work they do, we’ve celebrated them in statue, then given them to area artists to reveal the hero inside. Which will be your favorite Southeastern Superhero?

Take a closer look at the over 50 dogs on display at sponsoring businesses throughout the area, and at guidedogs.org/superheroes.

FROM THE EXECUTIVE EDITOR

“A joy that’s shared is a joy that’s doubled.”

(English Proverb)

S

o just what is the real state of our real estate?

Are

enough people moving here

to support all the new homes and condos sprouting everywhere we look? You bet they are.

The U.S. Census Bureau reported that the Sarasota metropolitan area (Sarasota-Bradenton-North Port) now ranks 73rd of the 381 U.S. metropolitan statistical areas in population with an estimated 768,918 residents, up 9.49% since 2010. A big chunk of that growth

Thermage stimulates your body’s natural renewal of collagen, which creates subtle, natural-looking results with little or no downtime.

came in a one year period from mid-2014 to mid-2015 when we added enough new residents to make up a small city – 20,123 new people to be precise – representing a 2.7% growth rate in one year.

This growth ranks the Sarasota metro region 11th on the Census Bureau list of America’s fastest-growing urban areas. When you consider that in 2011, the Sarasota metro area ranked 152nd out of the 381 metro areas in growth rate, our growth rate is far above the national average. Let’s put it this way. From 2010 to 2011, only a little over 1,000 people moved here. Quite a difference.

Mostly from the Northeast, Midwest and Canada, our new neighbors have found our pot of gold and with them comes something we’ve all dreaded – more traffic. It does seem to take longer to get from point A to point B these days. And if one more

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person tells me we’re a seasonal town, I am going to scream.

While it is true there are still lots of retirees who head north for the summers, we have lots more families and seniors moving here.

There is no empty feeling during the dog days of summer.

The bottom line is the state of our real estate is strong. With a good portion of the new homes and condos being bought with cash, it doesn’t seem like there’s a bubble waiting to burst this time around. Foreclosures are down to less than 2% and there are no

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It seems it's time to suck it up and realize we are no longer the sleepy town of yesteryear. There’s no turning back. It’s not a boom with a bust. It’s a boom that has put us on the map in ways some other cities only wish would happen. We have beautiful beaches, fabulous arts and culture, and yes, more businesses are opening here all the time. The job market is getting better. Gallup’s latest well-being index ranked Sarasota-Bradenton-North Port as the number one ranked metro area for well-being in the U.S. So the next time it takes you an extra 15 minutes to get somewhere, don’t complain. Choose joy and know that you are sharing with others

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SCENE

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June 2016

julie@scenesarasota.com

CREATE A LOOK STUDDED WITH STYLE.

T H E PA N D O R A S T O R E AT

THE MALL AT UNIVERSITY TOWN CENTER Center Court • 941.893.3948

LOCALLY OWNED, OPERATED & PRINTED SINCE 1957 CEO/President

Ronald Milton

Publisher & Executive Editor

Julie A. Milton

Account Executive

Tiffany Wenzel

Art Director

Michelle Cross

Assistant to Executive Editor Distribution

From special occasions to daily dining, Morton’s Market has got you covered.

Stop in for fresh seasonal produce, prime cuts of meat and seafood, and hot-fromthe-oven baked goods.

Choose from our tempting array of chef-prepared deli and gourmet to-go items, as well as fine wines, exotic cheeses and cut flowers.

Think of us for your catered events, holiday menus and gift baskets too.

Contributing Writers

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June 2016

Dick Jackson Sue Cullen Suzette Jones Jacqueline Miller Gus Mollasis Steven J. Smith Ryan G. Van Cleave

Photographers

Nancy Guth John Revisky

Address

5939 Approach Road, Sarasota, FL 34238

Phone Fax Website

Historic Southside Village 1924 South Osprey Ave. ∙ Sarasota (941) 955-9856 ∙ MortonsMarket.com

Cheryl Galbraith

941-365-1119 941-954-5067 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.

Where Casual Ambiance

Meets Authentic Italian

5104 Ocean Blvd. | Siesta Key | 941-349-1423 | cafegabbiano.com OPEN DAILY 5PM-10PM. TASTING MENUS AVAILABLE SUNDAY TO THURSDAY.

SOCIAL Designing Daughter’s Annual Gala Over

three

hundred

of

Designing

Daughters

members and supporters enjoyed Cuban bites, a mojito bar, gaming tables and dancing to the tunes of DJ Joey D at Servandos Restaurant, Sarasota’s newest hot spot. Chairs Ashley Markley, Kelsey Alholm, Lauren Graham and Meghan Buchanan chaired the event, which is fast becoming one of the must attend events of the social season. The gala raised over $50,000, which will be granted to several worthy local organizations by the end of the year. Photos by Nancy Guth

Kelly & Michael Calamaras

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June 2016

Kevin Ellerbrock, Jane Thompson, Nikki Taylor, Mark Baldwin & Matt Thompson

Montana Taplinger & Diana Buchanan

Ann Marie Dozier & Rebecca Walther

Ted & Susan Lynch

SOCIAL

Ear Research Foundation Kentucky Derby Fundraiser Supporters of the Ear Research Foundation donning hats and bowties gathered on Kentucky Derby day at Michael’s On East to celebrate the Run for the Roses. The Ear Research Foundation hosted its Derbythemed event to raise funds for research, education and to aid individuals suffering from hearing loss and balance disorders.

Photos by Kelly Kearns

Brendan McQuaid & Tiffany Wenzel

Jennifer Moss

Elena & Dr. Joe Balzano

Country Club East • Founders Club • The Concession Rivetta On Phillippi Creek • Indian Lakes

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Tanya Dorenko

Keith & Adrienne Johnson

907-7019

LWHomes.com June 2016

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SOCIAL

Dick Vitale Gala A record $2.8 million was raised for the V Foundation at the 11th annual Dick Vitale Gala benefiting pediatric cancer, bringing the total raised to date to $18 million.

More than 800 attendees, including nearly 100 celebrity guests, were on hand as our own Dickie V made his passionate plea asking supporters to open their hearts and wallets for research. Special honorees included Good Morning America anchor Robin Roberts, coaches Bo Ryan and Urban Myer, and several young cancer survivors and their families. Photos by Nancy Guth

Mary Kenealy-Barbetta, Dick Vitale & Robin Roberts

Pat, Jessica & Joshua Fisher

Jessie & Katie Biter

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June 2016

N’Jhari Jackson

Urban Meyer, Susan Braun, Dick Vitale & Bo Ryan

Megan & Aaron McFarland

Nick Bollettieri

Kathy & Mike Martella

Terri Vitale Sforzo, Ryan & Chris Sforzo

Renee Preininger, Lisa Delfalco, Therese Masseo & Angela Radigan

Larry & Lorraine Ziff

Engage. Tomorrow. Today.

Help us create a brighter future by opening the door to educational dreams.

The Foundation for our community’s College.

Start a conversation with our expert staff and learn more about opportunities to support scholarships and programs by contacting Cassandra Holmes, Executive Director, 941-752-5390 or holmesc@scf.edu.

scffoundation.net

June Calendar For a complete listing of community events please visit scenesarasota.com Photo by John Revisky

Savor Sarasota

Venice MainStreet’s Friday Night Concert Series

June 1 – 14. Sarasota celebrates the highest concentration

June 10 & 24 Centennial Park Gazebo 7:00 pm. Bring a

of Zagat-rated restaurants in Florida with two weeks of

chair or a blanket and enjoy a free concert in paradise.

three course feasts from participating restaurants. Tickets:

visitvenicefl.org

$15 for lunch; $29 for dinner. For a list of restaurants, visit savorsarasota.com

15th Annual St. Armands Craft Festival June 11 – 12 St. Armands Circle 10:00 am. Featuring artisans

Dakin Dairy Farms Mootastic Dairy Day Festival

and crafters of jewelry, pottery, soaps, and more. Includes a

June 4 Dakin Dairy Farm 10:00 am. Featuring interactive and

green market. Open to the public. artfestival.com

physical activities the whole family can enjoy together. Tickets $7 entry or $20 wristband | 941.322.2802

Authentic Hawaiian Luau at Sharky’s at the Pier June 12 Sharky’s on the Pier 4:00 pm. Hawaiian fair will be

World Oceans Day Family Festival

served and performances by Polynesian musicians, Waikiki

June 4 Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium 10:00 am. Cel-

dancers, and flame throwers. Benefits the Avenida de Colores

ebrate World Oceans Day with games and crafts focused on

Chalk Festival Cultural Exchange Scholarship Fund. Tickets:

green practices, marine science and conservation. Free with

$75 | 941.954.5800 | chalkfestival.org | eventbrite.com

regular admission | 941.388.4441 | mote.org

Goodwill Manasota’s Salute The Runway South Florida Museum’s Family Night: Down by the Seashore

June 16 Goodwill Manasota Corporate Campus 6:00 pm.

June 4 South Florida Museum 3:00 pm. Enjoy an evening

veterans for their contributions to our community. Tickets:

of family fun, which includes author Dianne Ochiltree

$75 | 941.355.2721 | experiencegoodwill.org

who will read her book It’s a Seashell Day. 941.746.4131 | southfloridamuseum.org

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June 2016

Fashion show and dinner celebrating twelve local women

Bradenton Boat Show June 17 – 19 Bradenton Area Convention Center 10:00 am. Dozens of exhibits with new boats, boating accessories, fishing gear, apparel and more. Attend the Captain Joe Fishing School for hands on learning from the experts. Tickets: $5 adults / children 12 & under FREE | 727.894.3644 | bradentonboatshow.com

Towles Court Art Walk June 17 1938 Adams Lane, Sarasota 5:00 pm. Wander and shop unique galleries,

you What will

find at Water’s Edge?

studios, boutiques, charming restaurants and cafés, along with live music and refreshments. towlescourt.com

24th Annual Downtown Venice Craft Festival June 18 – 19 Miami Ave. Downtown Venice 10:00 am. First-rate outdoor-juried craft showcase featuring a vast array of craft media. Open to the public | artfestival.com

Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix Festival June 25 – July 4. This weeklong celebration is filled with a variety of events up to and around the powerboat race. Benefits the Suncoast Charities for Children. 941.487.7904 x103 | suncoastoffshore.org

Sarasota Farmer’s Market 6th Annual Shrimp & Lobster Fest June 25 Main St. & Lemon Ave., downtown Sarasota 9:00 am. Enjoy numerous lobster and shrimp delicacies, live music, raffle drawing and farmer’s market. Free admission.

At Water’s Edge, your loved one will enjoy life in an idyllic setting with stunning water views. But it’s what’s on the inside that matters most — a sense of belonging, the security of topnotch care, and a warm, nurturing atmosphere.

Kids Rock Manasota June 25 Lakewood Ranch, Main St. 11:00 am. Featuring live local rock bands for kids by kids, craft, food and business vendors, kids shows, face painting, rides, games, and prizes. Benefits the Foundation of Dreams and The Lazarus Foundation Inc. Free entry | 941.219.8410 | spotlightevents.org

Upcoming Events: Palm Avenue First Friday Gallery Walk July 1 Palm Ave. 6:00 pm. Enjoy gallery openings, dining, antiques, specialty shops and live performances. Held first Friday of every month. palmavenue.org

Gloria Musicae’s Patriotic Spectacular July 4 First United Methodist Church 4:30 pm. Enjoy rousing patriotic songs and the vocal fireworks that Gloria Musicae presents. Tickets: $25 - $30 | 941.387.6046 | gloriamusicae.org

Selby Gardens All American Barbecue

Call today to learn about our 3-2-1 savings program running through July 30, 2016.

NOW TAKING RESERVATIONS

2016 is the perfect time to move in, because we’re adding 80 luxurious Assisted Living and Memory Care apartments in a brand-new building.

Come explore life at the edge of the water, in the center of a true family.

Call 877-681-1939 to arrange a tour, or learn more at

WatersEdgeSeniorLiving.org

July 4 Selby Gardens 6:00 pm. Listen to live music, savor American inspired cuisine, and lounge all day enjoying family-friendly activities ending with a giant fireworks extravaganza. Tickets: $25 - $150 | 941.366.5731 | selby.org

25th Annual Siesta Key Fireworks July 4 Siesta Key public beach 9:00 pm. Bring your beach blanket and beach chairs to enjoy the Siesta sunset. Viewing is anywhere along Siesta Key Beach, Crescent Beach.

Assisted Living & Memory Care

Fireworks Spectacular Over Sarasota Bay

2015 32nd Avenue West Bradenton, FL 34205 Assisted Living License #11742

July 4 Bayfront Park and Island Park 9:00 pm. View from boat or land anywhere in downtown Sarasota. Benefits Suncoast Charities for Children.

June 2016

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PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR Nao Kubota featured in Sarasota Orchestra’s Music Festival

ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE 941.351.8000 / asolorep.org

Hetty Feather June 2 – 26 Hetty Feather is a feisty young 19th century redhead with an indomitable imagination and a zest for adventure. Left at the not-sotender mercies at a hospital as a baby, Hetty’s quest to find her true home takes her from the English countryside to the traveling circus to the mean streets of London, all by way of thrilling aerial and circus feats, live music and spectacular story-telling.

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE 941.366.9000 / floridastudiotheatre.org

Cabaret – Laughing Matters Through June 12 A musical Saturday Night Live for Sarasota.

LEMON BAY PLAYHOUSE

Maks & Val Live On Tour at Van Wezel

MANATEE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

THE RINGLING

941.748.5875 / manateeperformingartscenter.com

Summer Circus Spectacular

Menopause - The Musical June 7 – 19 Set in a department store where four women with seemingly nothing in common but a black lace bra meet by chance at a lingerie sale. They make fun of their woeful hot flashes, forgetfulness, mood swings, wrinkles, night sweats and chocolate binges. A sisterhood is created as they realize that menopause is no longer “The Silent Passage.”

941.359.5700 / ringling.org June 15 – July 20 Annual Summer Circus Spectacular at the Historic Asolo Theater. Presented in collaboration with The Circus Arts Conservatory, this on-stage exhibition of circus artistry provides delightful summer entertainment for children of all ages. Call 941.360.7399 for ticket information.

SARASOTA OPERA 941.366.8450 / sarasotaopera.org

Dear Edwina Jr.

HD at the Opera House

June 24 – 25 Thirteen year-old problem solver Edwina dishes out advice with the help of her friends and a little song and dance.

The best in opera, ballet and Shakespeare from theaters around the world on the big screen.

THE PLAYERS CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS

Lucia di Lammermoor by Gaetano Donizetti

Making God Laugh

941.365.2494 / theplayerstheater.org

June 5 Starring Diana Damrau and production from the Royal Opera House.

June 8 – 26 Throughout several years of holidays with a typical American family, the mother, father and three grown children all have hopes and dreams. As time passes, the family discovers that, despite what we may have in mind, we often arrive at unexpected destinations.

Cosi

Ballet Russes

941.475.6756 / lemonbayplayhouse.com

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June 15 – 26 Young theatre director Lewis has just landed his first job straight out of school, staging a production of Mozart’s comic opera Cosi fan Tutte. The catch? The cast are patients from a mental institution, none of whom can speak Italian…or sing.

June 12 Production from Paris Opéra Ballet.

The Damnation of Faust by Hector Berlioz June 19 Starring Jonas Kaufmann and production from the Paris National Opera.

La Cenerentola by Gioachino Rossini

Proud Local Owners Scott and Stan McGowan

June 26 Starring Serena Malfi and production from the Teatro dell’Opera di Roma

Sleeping Beauty July 3 Choreography by Marius Petipa and production from the Royal Ballet

SARASOTA ORCHESTRA 941.953.3434 / sarasotaorchestra.org

Sarasota Music Festival

The Butcher’s Block

FINEST QUALITY | IMPECCABLE SERVICE

June 9 – 25 Pre-professional students and faculty artists from around the world converge for three weeks at one of classical music’s finest teaching festivals.

URBANITE THEATRE

Ultra Prime Meats & Seafood Gourmet Foods & Salads Over 1500 World Class Wines (Shipping Available)

941.321.1397 / urbanitetheatre.com

DRY LAND June 24 – July 24 Set in the girls’ locker room of a Florida high school, this portrait of an unlikely friendship follows Ester, a hopeful collegiate swimmer, and Amy, a girl in need of an ally. Adult language and content, viewer discretion is advised.

941.955.2822 | 3442 17th Street, Sarasota butchersblocksarasota.com

VAN WEZEL PERFORMING ARTS HALL 941.955.7676 | vanwezel.org

Turning Your Dreams Into An Address Wanda Martinetto REALTOR

®

Servicing Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota & Bradenton

Cell: Office: Email: Web:

941.773.7807 941.556.0500 Wanda@LuxuryLakewoodRanchHomes.com LuxuryLakewoodRanchHomes.com

Keller Williams Realty 8210 Lakewood Ranch Blvd | Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated

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Koko Ray & The Keepers June 10 Friday Fest free outdoor concert playing Blues, Bluegrass, Jazz and Rock-n-Roll.

Maks & Val Live On Tour June 16 All-new smash hit dance tour, starring Maksim and Valentin Chmerkovskiy; stars of ABC’s hit show Dancing with the Stars.

VENICE THEATRE 941.488.1115 / venicestage.com

The Unbroken Circle - A Tribute to the Grand Ole Opry June 2 – 5 Presented by the Loveland Players. Annual performance by the Loveland students.

Gotta Luv It June 18 Features six professional, “old-school” musicians who promise “good clean fun for everyone” with their repertoire of songs from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s.

SOCIAL

2016 Concession Cup The 2016 Concession Cup, a biennial amateur team match-play competition, was recently held at The Concession Golf Club. 18-time major champion Jack Nicklaus, and Tony Jacklin, the most celebrated British player of his generation, served as honorary captains. 2008 Ryder Cup Captain Paul Azinger served as honorary chairman. The Concession Cup was created to celebrate amateur golf and it raises money to support charities in the Bradenton, Tampa and St. Petersburg area.Â

Photos by Nancy Guth

Jim Dent & Jack Nicklaus

Tony Jacklin

Joe & Lynn Bornstein

Martin Young, Matt Clarke, Sean Fitzpatrick, Adrian Morrow, Ben Lundquist & Todd Elias

Bruce Cassidy, Jr., Urban Meyer & Bruce Cassidy, Sr.

Louis Schaefer & Trish Costello

Kip & Angela Radigan

Dr. Jorge Alvarez, Penny & Ted Abrams

Patrick Gallagher, Mike McCoy & Lou Marinaccio

Mark & Tonna Clark June 2016

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GET INSPIRED

S

Cultural Happenings brought to you by the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

arasota native and young professional Reid Gerletti is boldly pursuing his passion of being an artist while managing his career as a realtor at Premier Sotheby’s International Realty.

Reid graduated from the Booker High School Visual Arts Program and Ringling College of Art and Design with a major in Illustration, had several successful years as a freelance artist

painting commissioned pieces and murals, then worked as a graphic designer and marketing specialist in the real estate industry.

It’s this kind of delicate blend that we often hear about from many creative people in Sarasota. It’s not easy to pursue your artistic talents and still manage a full-time career. But for someone who truly loves what they do, anything is possible.

Reid shared his perspective on how and why the arts in Sarasota influence and inspire him:

“Growing up in Sarasota, art has always been a part of my life. At a young age I was exposed to art at The Ringling Museum and admired the work of the old masters. I can't count how many times I've been there, and The Ringling has always been a source of inspiration for me. After four years in the art program at Booker High School and earning accolades through award-winning exhibits, I was honored to be accepted into Ringling College of Art and Design. Sarasota has amazing facilities for the arts – all in our very own back yard. Now, as a full-time real estate agent, I am fortunate to get to work on my art as well. Being affiliated with the Sotheby's auction house, I see some of the most amazing art and architecture from around the world. Seeing other art and being around other artists has always inspired me, and Sarasota is a great location for both.”

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WE’VE MOVED to The Square at

UTC

New showroom featuring the latest custom drapery designer fabrics, window treatments with motorization

Silhouette ® with UltraGlide ®

& INSPIRED DRAPES

Shutters, Custom Draperies, Shades, Blinds, Bedspreads

Family Owned & Operated Since 1994

5405 University Pkwy., Sarasota • On Honore just north of University Pkwy.

Located in the Square at UTC, behind CVS, near Staples.

941.342.0900 • Open Mon-Fri 9-5, Sat 10-3 • Free In-Home Consultations

$500 OFF

Designers: Josephine (President), Jen & Gretchen

Any window treatment order of $3,995 or more, or $120 off any window treatments of $995 or more.

May not be combined with any other offer.

Mention this ad at time of estimate.

ISLAND GALLERY WEST’S JUNE EXHIBIT – A BIT OF COLLAGE BY LEE MEARS

Edgardo J. Aponte, MD, FACOG Jorge E. Alvarez, MD, FACOG Jennifer R. McCullen, MD, FACOG M. Joanne Bevers, CNM Jill S. Miller, ARNP Therese E. Goode, PA-C

Dedicated to a Lifetime of Women’s Health Care

º Gynecology & Cosmetic Gynecology º Obstetrics – Pregnancy º On-Site 3D & 4D Ultrasounds

º Menopause & Hormone Replacement º In-Office Procedures: Essure Permanent Birth Control, Endometrial Ablation & more º Hospital Surgery

941-907-3008 º www.obgynwc.com

8340 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, Suite 240 º Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 Se Habla Español & Portuguese

SUPPORTING THE ARTS HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER! A CONSIGNMENT STORE LIKE NO OTHER! 12,000-square-feet filled to the brim with hidden yet affordable treasures like Baccarat crystal, Tiffany silver, Gucci, Prada, Chicos, 14k-22k gold jewelry, high-end furniture, handmade Persian rugs and regular household items.

NOW HANDLING OFF-SITE

ESTATES

Donating? Ask us about the Royal Treatment. It’s EASY and FREE!

TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Volunteer  Donate  Consign  Shop

539 S. ORANGE | 941-955-7859 | OPEN MON-FRI 9-4 & SAT 10-4, 1st FRIDAYS TIL 5PM

MORE THAN $7.8 MILLION IN GRANTS & SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED 28

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Lee Mears will present her collages and other mixed-media art in an exhibit entitled A Bit of Collage. Having spent the first part of her life living in New York City surrounded by some of the greatest art in the world, Mears was inspired early to become an artist. Her boundless curiosity and imagination have moved her to spend years exploring and experimenting with different media to develop her compelling and popular art.

Gallery hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Mon.Sat. Please visit www.islandgallerywest.com or call 941-778-6648 for gallery updates.

Exhibit runs through June 30 | Island Gallery West | 5368 Gulf Dr., Holmes Beach | (Trolley Stop 15 on Anna Maria Island)

LONGBOAT KEY CENTER FOR THE ARTS A DIVISION OF RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN AFTER HOURS EXHIBIT

This exhibit introduces the work from multiple public school art instructors in Sarasota County ranging from traditional 2D/3D pieces to jewelry, digital print, and sculpture. Each artist approaches visual art with their own artistic flair and encompasses individualistic creative styles and approaches towards stunning visual representation. Art teachers share their heart and creativity with their students.

Through this exhibit, LBKCA is honoring the working/teaching artists in the Sarasota County Public School System by showcasing the artwork they create when not in the classroom.

For more information: call 941.383.2345 email: bkca@ringling.edu or visit www. ringling.edu/lbkca | Exhibit runs through June 24 | Free and open to the public | Durante Gallery | 6860 Longboat Dr., Longboat Key

MOTE’S WORLD OCEANS DAY

ART CENTER SARASOTA’S NEW EXHIBITIONS #POSTDIGITAL AND LOCAL 707 Art Center Sarasota’s 2015-2016 exhibition season, entitled In the Studio, continues with its fifth exhibition cycle. #postdigitial, in galleries One, Two and Three, highlights regional artists who are using technology to create their work or are incorporating technology as a medium in their work.

Local 707, in Gallery Four, is a membersonly, all-media, all-subject exhibition juried by Jamie Tracy, an artist and chair of the Design & Humanities department at State College of Florida.

Free admission | Exhibit runs through June 25, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Mon.-Sat. | 707 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota | For more information, call 941-365-2032 or visit www.artsarasota.org.

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June 2016

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A worldwide ocean celebration is on the horizon — join the fun during the World Oceans Day Family Festival! Mote’s World Oceans Day event will spotlight the ocean's deep connection to the human spirit and the boundless inspirational power of our natural world's greatest resource.

This year’s event will feature games and crafts focused on green practices, marine science and conservation by Mote and other local organizations.

The family festival is free with regular paid admission to Mote Aquarium and is free for Mote Members. For more information, visit mote.org or call (941) 388-4441. June 4, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. | Mote Aquarium | 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota

29

Denise Mei & Nicole Mei REALTORS®

SOCIAL 25th Anniversary Gala Inn of Court Local attorneys gathered at Michael’s on East for this milestone celebration honoring the late Judge John M. Scheb (the inn’s first president). Lead sponsor was Wliliams Parker Harrison Dietz & Getzen. Other sponsors included Grossman Roth & Partridge, Maglio Christopher & Toale, Icard Merrill, Shumaker Loop & Kendrick, and The Law Place. Charlie Ann and Jim Syprett were benefactors. Event proceeds benefit a Stetson University College of Law scholarship in Judge Scheb’s name.

Photos by Nancy Guth

941.685.3198 | 941.400.0540 DeniseMei@michaelsaunders.com | NicoleMei@michaelsaunders.com

Bill Partridge, Ted Eastmoore, Judge Brian Iten & Patrick McCardle

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Judge Fred Mercurio, Judge Hunter Carroll & Art Hardy

SOCIAL CVA Hall of Fame Luncheon Community

Video

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preserves

the history, philosophy and persona of special individuals by producing a video biography. Every year, four people are selected for this honor, which is called its Hall of Fame award. This year’s packed event at Michael’s On East, hosted by CVA founder Annette Scherman and chaired by Chris Pfahler, honored Nik Wallenda, Superintendent of Schools Lori White, Jewish Federation Executive Director Howard Tevlowitz, and Van Wezel Executive Director Mary Bensel. Photos by Nancy Guth

Nik Wallenda & Mary Bensel

Jeffery Kin, Michelle Pingel, Dolly Jacobs-Reis & Pedro Reis

Howard Tevlowitz & Lori White

Eva Slane, Annette Scherman & Robert Turoff

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Eric R. Hoonhout, Peter Z. Skokos, Sam D. Norton & Michael P. Infanti of Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos, P.A.

Photo by Enrique Pino

Seeking Legal Advice

Can Help Lift Tax Burden for Real Estate Investors As Sarasota’s popularity as a destination for vacationers and seasonal or full-time residents has risen, many buyers are finding local residential and commercial properties an attractive investment option.

Whether that investor is an individual purchasing a rental property or a developer acquiring vacant land, they run the risk of leaving money on the table by not adequately addressing the tax liability generated by investment income. That liability may be greater than they are aware, and it also could be subject to the vagaries inherent in a presidential election year. Politics aside, though, these taxes may be mitigated from the start with assistance from attorneys who practice in the area of real estate law.

Without astute advice, property investors can risk

“These taxes generally apply to higher income taxpay-

greater-than-necessary tax exposure through income

ers, who already may be paying a lot in taxes. They

generated by those properties as well as capital

are additional taxes on top of the ordinary rate for

gains tax upon sale. Those capital gains along with

earned income and are levied on investment income

rental income and certain other investment income

and capital gains above certain threshold amounts,”

may also be subject to an additional 3.8 percent

said attorney Michael Infanti, who is part of the real

surcharge. This 3.8 percent tax and a separate 0.9

estate group of Norton, Hammersley, Lopez and

percent tax on wages and self-employment business

Skokos, a Sarasota law firm concentrating in real es-

income are known as the Medicare surtaxes. These

tate, business, tax, trial practice, and dispute resolu-

are intended to help fund the Affordable Care Act

tion. “An attorney can help investors minimize the

and Medicare overhaul plans.

tax implications and avoid costly mistakes if that is

not handled correctly. Because these taxes are tied

said. “That allows taxpayers to roll gains from the

to the Affordable Care Act, we can help people, who

sale of one investment property into the purchase of

want to purchase investment property now, mitigate

another without having to pay taxes immediately on

the uncertainties related to what may happen after the

proceeds from the sale.”

presidential election.”

With the proper legal advice, a 1031 exchange and According to attorney Eric Hoonhout, investors have a

other strategies can even help manage tax exposure

number of ways to manage their tax exposure. “We can

for larger scale projects, such as for someone who

do that analysis,” he said, “and determine what would

subdivides and improves raw land prior to selling it

be an optimal solution for an individual client.” Both

to builders. “That person may inadvertently put them-

Hoonhout and Infanti, along with shareholders Sam

selves into a classification as a developer rather than

Norton and Peter Skokos, have helped many clients

an investor, which means they can’t do a 1031 ex-

with their real estate needs from closings and contracts

change on the sale of the land,” Infanti said. “If they

to creation of various types of real estate trusts including

had consulted an attorney to create the appropriate

charitable remainder trusts. They also are experienced

structures to optimize taxation for that project, a 1031

with 1031 exchanges, creation of corporate entities, and

exchange may have been a viable option.”

ways to manage how income is categorized.

While some mistakenly think a 1031 exchange means The 3.8 percent Medicare surtax, also known as

they won’t have to pay taxes, it does defer them until

the Net Investment Income Tax, applies to those

the final investment is liquidated. “This can mean re-

who have net investment income and whose mod-

ally significant savings, particularly for older individ-

ified adjusted gross income is above the $200,000

uals who probably will not be selling the property,”

threshold for individuals and $250,000 for married

Hoonhout said. Should that property be passed along

couples. Income subject to the 3.8 percent tax in-

to their heirs, taxes may not need to be paid at all. Tax

cludes, but is not limited to, interest and dividends,

law allows the property’s basis to be “stepped up” to

rental income, and passive income from businesses.

today’s market value rather than its original purchase

It also includes capital gains on investments such

price and could fall within the $5.45 million individual

as stocks, bonds and real estate, including sale of

lifetime gift exemption.

both personal and investment properties, according to Hoonhout. The 0.9 percent tax applies to earned

Other strategies for creating tax efficiencies can

income above $200,000. Calculation of the 3.8 per-

help those who derive income from rental proper-

cent tax is a bit more complicated, and taxpayers

ties. “Those who have rental real estate and active-

whose income exceeds the thresholds will pay the

ly manage it could mitigate the impact of the 3.8

lesser of the tax due on net investment income or

percent tax by creating an S corporation and pay

the tax due on the amount of adjusted gross income

themselves a salary, which would not be counted

that exceeds the thresholds.

as investment income,” Hoonhout said. These are a few examples of how the right legal counsel can

Of course, the deduction on proceeds of the sale

help. “There are a lot of strategies for managing the

of personal residences of $250,000 for individuals

tax load that we can talk about on the development

and $500,000 for couples applies, but sellers may

side or when people are ready to purchase proper-

want to consider other strategies for proceeds ex-

ty,” Infanti said. Hoonhout concurs, and adds, “The

ceeding those amounts along with sale of second

point is if you are not already teamed up with an

homes and investment properties. “One common

accountant and an attorney, it is important to do

way to defer taxes on gains from the sale of invest-

so. We can ease your tax burden and help in many

ment properties is through a 1031 exchange,” Infanti

other ways, too.”

Connect: Real Estate Practice Group — Eric R. Hoonhout, Peter Z. Skokos, Sam D. Norton & Michael P. Infanti

Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos | 1819 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-954-4691

A Reason for Hope

By Sue Cullen | Photo by Nancy Guth

Dr. Jason Quintal has a passion for healing the emotional pain of those who have experienced some of life’s worst traumas. Dr. Quintal, whose counseling center is in Lakewood Ranch, began working with sex trafficking survivors through the nonprofit Selah Freedom since it was founded in 2011 by Laurie Swink, Misty Stinson, and Elizabeth Fisher, who is now its President and CEO. Using an innovative treatment approach, Quintal and his team have helped these survivors move painlessly past repeated traumas, freeing them to obtain the education, training, or employment needed to achieve their dreams of a better life. “It is an honor to be involved with Selah Freedom and has been my privilege to provide trauma treatment to survivors in the residential and outreach programs and also assist in training staff,” Dr. Quintal said.

Fisher has characterized Selah Freedom’s partnership with Quintal as absolutely integral to the work the nonprofit does with survivors. It operates two safe houses for sex trafficking survivors helping them develop an educational plan and providing counseling and other services. Dr. Quintal’s treatment involves using the brain’s ability to adapt and create new neural pathways – called neuroplasticity – that can help survivors resolve trauma far more quickly than traditional talk therapy, and without having to re-live the emotional pain of their experiences.

Dr. Quintal’s interest in finding a way to support people trying to move past troubling experiences in their lives began early in his career. While employed as a social worker by the Pinellas County school system, he volunteered with a nonprofit that helps survivors of rape and torture. “I was working with a man who was tortured in a Bosnian prison camp and having him re-experience the pain through traditional means was awful,” Dr. Quintal said. Then he attended a professional seminar where he saw people talk about their traumas without numbness or re-living it. “I instantly knew I wanted to become highly trained in this process and be able to quickly and gently heal emotional wounds for my clients,” he said.

That was 10 years ago. Since then Dr. Quintal has helped people from many walks of life resolve issues ranging from

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PTSD, childhood abuse, sexual trauma, fears and phobias, grief, anger problems, anxiety, insomnia, and depression.

“Our focus is to clear out negative experiences, so past experiences no longer continue to trigger emotional responses in the present,” he said. “This makes it easier to make positive life changes. Emotional wounds are healed gently and painlessly, and the person does not have to re-live them to get better. All of us have a certain degree of post-traumatic stress just from going through life. This can often have an impact under the surface.” Dr. Quintal and his team also work with long standing issues that haven’t gotten better with traditional therapy. “It doesn’t matter what challenges they come in with. We can help,” he said.

Selah Freedom has prevention programs for young girls, outreach programs for women who are trafficked and also works with law enforcement and the State Attorney’s office to help women who are still on the street or in jail. Dr. Quintal supports these efforts through training and development.

“When talking to a survivor, there is a certain ‘language-ing’ that helps to reframe the conversation so the person is not re-traumatized,” he said. “For example, even using the term ‘survivor’ rather than ‘victim’ is an important and empowering reframing for these women.”

Along with his work for Selah Freedom, Dr. Quintal has aided many other nonprofits over the years. He currently speaks regularly at First Step with those recovering from addiction issues. This treatment can help those in recovery stay sober by healing the emotional wounds that may lead to relapse. “I feel very fortunate to be able to do this kind of treatment,” Dr. Quintal said. “I’m passionate about making a difference for people and can’t think of anything that would be more rewarding to do as a profession. I applaud Selah Freedom and its work in our communities.”

June 2016

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An Art-Filled Life:

Jonathan Coleman, Rick Kerby and the Manatee Performing Arts Center

By Steven J. Smith | Photo by Nancy Guth

A

sk a high-powered lawyer like Jonathan Coleman why he got involved with a local community theater like the Manatee Performing Arts Center and he’ll tell you it all goes back to his childhood.

“When I was born at the end of the Eisenhower administration, my socially active mother was always

up for a city adventure,” he said. “She frequently took me to New York for theater and shopping.”

These jaunts included performances of classical ballet and opera at the Metropolitan Opera House and Broadway productions such as Pippin, A Chorus Line and The King and I, to name a few.

“I was hooked on live performance,” he said. “While I had no particular talent for the stage, as a young adult I continued to go to Broadway and wonderful regional theaters.”

An attorney with the St. Petersburg law firm Johnson Pope since 1997, Coleman, 55, has litigated in a variety of state and federal courts at the trial and appellate level. With homes in both St. Pete and Sarasota, he enjoys making time in his busy schedule for the arts.

“It’s hard not to love Sarasota,” he said. “If you like cultural events, it’s jam-packed every minute of the day and I sit on the boards of the Sarasota Opera and Sarasota Ballet.”

Another cultural venue Coleman supports is the Manatee Performing Arts Center, which moved into its new $22 million Bradenton home in 2013 and is artistically overseen by his spouse, Producing Artistic Director Rick Kerby.

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June 2016

“The Manatee Performing Arts Center have done some really extraordinary work and I’m proud to have written them checks and attended their galas,” Coleman said. “Miss Saigon and Les Miserables were just terrific and recently Chess was great in its use of projection screens and beautifully built sets. Very effective and innovative.”

Coleman has also helped the organization by bringing in other donors to contribute to its perpetuation.

“The fact that these people are writing checks of their own to support the Manatee Performing Arts Center is a testament to the quality of their productions,” he said.

“Rick is a big part of that.”

Recipient of numerous national and regional awards for his contributions to the Manatee Players, Kerby, 52, has strived to expand its reach and challenge its audience since he took over in 2004.

“We’re in our 70th season now,” Kerby said. “Our old building was built in 1953 and we outgrew it. It’s amazing how quickly we’ve grown into the new building. We’ve corrected sound problems, parking was an issue and we just purchased a property across the street, and will start construction this year on a parking lot.”

He added other arts organizations use the performing arts center as a gallery, a performance space and a corporate events venue.

“Our executive director Janene Amick and I believe that a dark theater does no good for anyone,” he said. “So we try to keep shows going here 24/7. We also depend on our volunteers. They’re our family, from the front of the house with our ushers and box office personnel to the people who perform on our stage, build our sets and props and create our costumes. These people also support us financially, which is what we love to see. They believe in what we do and see how it benefits our community.”

Kerby added the organization has recently created the “Insiders”, which offers donors a host of benefits, depending on the level at which they decide to give.

“Our newest addition is the Skybox, which is a private VIP lounge complete with its own bar and concessions area, from which you can also watch the show,” he said.

“We’re also fundraising for paying off the new parking lot. In addition, we want to expand our education component. We have a lot of young talent in this area and they need scholarships. We want to expand the classes we offer as well. So there are lots of opportunities to get involved.”

Coleman couldn’t agree more. “I’ve made supporting the arts a priority and it’s my strong belief that exposure to different art forms and ideas makes young people more tolerant, accepting and inclusive,” he said. “Just as a rising tide floats all boats, an arts-loving, informed community makes this a better place for all of us.”

For more information about volunteering for, donating to, or seeing a show at the Manatee Performing Arts Center, visit manateeperformingartscenter.com or call 941-748-5875.

June 2016

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STABIL Concrete Pavers has become a trusted name in the Sarasota/Manatee area for the all your paving needs. Our showroom features many products in a variety of shapes and colors for your selection along with samples for you to bring home. We carry both thin and thick pavers as well as 4 sizes of coping giving STABIL the ability to handle any job from new construction to a remodel of your current pool deck. Our well trained staff will work with you from start to finish ensuring your complete satisfaction.

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SOCIAL

SMHF’s 15th Annual Golf Tournament It was a day full of golf and fun at the 15th Annual Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation Golf Tournament played on Laurel Oak Country Club’s two courses. A record-breaking 204 golfers participated and raised more than $100,000 for the physicians endowment to fund continuing education for the staff at Sarasota Memorial. SCENE Magazine publisher Ron Milton served as the event chair and David Fouche of J2Solutions served as vice chair.

Steve King, Doug Grice & Ron Milton

Keith Strubel, Scott Collins & Mark Pritchett

Haley & David Verinder

David Fouche, Bruce Mantia & Art Wood June 2016

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June 2016

Plymouth Harbor on Sarasota Bay

Celebrating 50 Years with a Bold Vision for the Future

By Sue Cullen

P

lymouth Harbor celebrates its 50th Anniversa-

men’s and women’s salons, multi-media and traditional li-

ry this year. While honoring the accomplish-

braries, indoor and outdoor pools, art studio, wood shop,

ments that achieved the paradigm-shattering

spa and gift shop. Residents stroll, or power walk, along

vision of its founder, the late Dr. John Whitney Mac-

the grounds’ trails, create their own gardens, exercise and

Neil, the community’s evolving story certainly includes

dance at the Wellness Center, attend lectures, and enjoy a

many unique individuals who have shaped a communi-

variety of entertainment at Pilgrim Hall Theater, Plymouth

ty that defies stereotypes about retirement living. This

Harbor’s performing arts hall.

key milestone also represents a new starting point. The Board of Trustees, management, residents, future resi-

As much as its beautiful tropical setting, sweeping

dents, and staff are looking to the future with innovative

360-degree water views, extensive amenities, and prox-

– and possibly surprising – plans inspired by next-gener-

imity to the area’s arts and cultural scene are integral to

ation retirees’ vision of what their future selves could be.

Plymouth Harbor’s attractions, many residents say what they enjoy most are the interesting and talented people

Located in the heart of Sarasota’s most desired destina-

who live there. “The best part of living here are the peo-

tions, Plymouth Harbor is a short distance to both St. Ar-

ple. I don’t know how they attract such truly fine people,”

mands Circle and downtown Sarasota. The award-winning

said Tom Elliot, whose grandparents were among the

Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) is on 17

first residents to move into Plymouth Harbor and whose

scenic acres along Sarasota Bay and essentially houses a

parents also were residents. Today, he is President of the

small village, complete with a range of restaurant-style

Residents Association and serves on the Plymouth Harbor

dining options – including a full service, waterside restau-

Board of Trustees.

rant, bar, private dining room, take out and full service catering. With its expansive waterfront, residents and their

The Elliots, married for 58 years, lived a full life “up North.”

guests can kayak, canoe, or go fishing, and community

His wife, Sue, graduated from the University of Toledo with

docks accommodate boats up to 32 feet.

a medical technologist degree, and Tom earned a degree in biology from Alma College. After serving in the Army,

Housing ranges from independent living to assisted liv-

Tom earned his master’s degree, focusing on manufac-

ing and, depending on evolving needs, also has skilled

turing and maintaining equipment. Following graduation,

nursing and rehabilitation care. On-site amenities include

he took a position with Applied Science Associates from June 2016

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Circa 1965. The Tower building was constructed at a rate of one floor per week.

The penthouses were completed in 1969, after the community had opened in January 1966.

which he eventually retired as CEO. Sue has given some

ward, what is constant is that there will be more residents

thought to why Plymouth Harbor attracts so many accom-

who want to pay it forward.”

plished individuals. “We attract those kinds of people with the people who already are here,” she said. “In addition to

Notably, past Plymouth Harbor residents have included the

the community itself, we have many activities that attract

late Dr. Kay Glasser, a very prominent philanthropist who

people interested in arts and higher education.”

was the driving force behind the Glasser-Schoenbaum Human Services Center. Another resident, Dr. Evelyn Duvall, a

With residents like the Elliots, who have been actively en-

retired college professor who attended the first White House

gaged their entire lives, it’s no surprise they would want

Conference on Aging, was instrumental in establishing the

to retain that level of engagement in retirement. Plymouth

Sarasota Institute of Lifetime Learning (SILL) in 1972, and

Harbor residents not only have the opportunity to be ac-

Plymouth Harbor was one of the three original locations

tively involved in shaping their community through par-

where programs were offered. “One of our residents helped

ticipation in the Residents Association and more than 20

start the Town Hall Lecture Series and another was a jazz

committees, but they also have helped mold the character

musician who played all over town and taught at Sarasota

of Sarasota itself. “Plymouth Harbor has thrived from the

High School. He was an icon in his time, and we still get

talents and values of people who have lived engaging and

notes from his students remembering him,” Okawa said.

interesting lives and who believe in giving to the commu-

“There is a vibrancy here. It is a lively place where people

nity at large,” said Gordon Okawa, Vice President of Mar-

move beyond the aging process and physical challenges.

keting and Community Affairs. “Their legacy has shaped

These are vital people who are actively engaged and con-

the perception of our community today, and looking for-

tinually giving back. Age is not stopping them.”

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June 2016

“What generally sells Plymouth Harbor is its location, but the best part of being here is the people. The most amazing people live here, and the structure encourages social interaction.”

– Dr. Paul Groen As the story goes, The Rev. Dr. John Whitney MacNeil

ture encourages social interaction,” said Dr. Paul Groen,

woke his wife, Judith, at 4 a.m. one night with the an-

a retired orthopedic surgeon. “You could have lunch and

nouncement that his church was going to build a re-

dinner with a different person every day, and everyone

tirement community of “distinction.” Her understated

has an amazing story to tell. It’s just fun to be here. You’ll

response, “Yes, dear. Now go back to sleep,” may have

have more friends than you ever had before.”

indicated that these middle of the night pronouncements were not unusual, such as the one that launched what is

This sense of a small community bound together for com-

now New College.

panionship and the common good is very familiar to Groen and his wife, Macky, a registered nurse with a master’s

MacNeil was aware of a group in Sarasota working to start

degree from Columbia University’s Teachers College. The

a college, and sat up in bed one night to declare, “It’s not

couple met in Africa while doing mission work at Mkar

right for us not to have a college of quality, and I’m going

Christian Hospital in Nigeria. They eventually returned to

to do something about it.” That “something” led to the

the U.S. with their two sons, where he established a pri-

United Church of Christ’s crucial early financial support

vate orthopedic practice, taught at Loyola Medical School,

for New College. He also was behind the establishment

and founded Doctors on Call for Services, which arranges

of Orchard Place in Sarasota, which provides affordable,

for specialists to teach African doctors, providing sustain-

independent living apartments and support for adults with

able medical care in underserved areas.

long-term physical disabilities. While MacNeil was small in stature, he was a man with huge vision.

“The big thing in coming here is that you move in with a community and are no longer alone. You don’t get further

For Plymouth Harbor, MacNeil’s vision was of an inclu-

isolated because you can’t drive or can’t walk very well,”

sive and progressive community based on shared values

he said. “Here you feel at home with people you know.”

of trust, open communications, integrity, honesty, inno-

Macky agrees and also credits the staff with creating a

vation, and the highest quality. Although Plymouth Har-

welcoming atmosphere. “The staff is wonderful. Everyone

bor is a church-sponsored organization, his vision was of

calls us by name whenever they see us and are very nice

an interfaith community open to those of all faiths or no

to us. There are so many activities; movies, concerts and

faith. It was out-of-the-box thinking in a time of institu-

lots of lectures,” she said. “If you are living alone or as a

tional-style care for the elderly, but MacNeil and a group

couple in a house, whom do you talk to? When you come

of volunteers made it a reality on January 15, 1966 when

here, you will be taken care of for life even if you run out

Plymouth Harbor officially opened. MacNeil passed away

of money. That is very important because in this day and

in 1979 at age 68 and never lived at Plymouth Harbor, but

age people worry about that.”

his wife is currently a resident.

Also in this day and age, the vast wave of baby boomers Plymouth Harbor’s 25-story tower was designed to max-

are just beginning to enter retirement communities with

imize the million-dollar views, and MacNeil wanted to

their own views of what they want their lives to be. “We

avoid the institutional feel created by long hallways lined

are looking forward. The next generation of residents is

with closed doorways. Instead, the building was designed

definitely looking for different things,” said Harry E. Hob-

with a fewer number of residences surrounding indoor

son, Plymouth Harbor’s President and CEO. Creating a

and outdoor living areas. “What generally sells Plymouth

different model for retirement living is, of course, what

Harbor is its location, but the best part of being here is the

spurred MacNeil to found Plymouth Harbor in the first

people. The most amazing people live here, and the struc-

place, bringing the community full circle into the future.

June 2016

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Residents enjoy spectacular views of downtown Sarasota, Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico from their luxurious apartment residences.

“A good life plan community is a great option. While an in-

cess to certain Plymouth Harbor amenities, including dining.

dependent lifestyle is wonderful, when something happens

Another couple on the waiting list, Carl Koenig and Con-

like needing post-operative care, you’re coming home rather

nie Sanders, recently wrote an article about why they have

than going to an unfamiliar place,” Hobson said. Organiza-

elected to purchase one of the new residential apartments

tions like Plymouth Harbor traditionally have been referred

and move in at a significantly younger-than-average age.

to as continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs)

Having been diligent planners their entire lives, they spent

where residents initially come for independent living and

two years doing research, visited 15 communities, consider-

as their needs grow greater with age, have access to more

ing only those with strong financials and more than 25 years

care-intensive residences, moving to different levels of care

of service. “Part of our CCRC selection requirements was to

as needed for the rest of their lives. Current terminology has

find a community with a vibrant and compatible indepen-

shifted to refer to this model of retirement living as a life plan

dent living community and a location with services that are

community because it more accurately reflects the lifestyle

more like a resort than the home,” they wrote. “At Plymouth

such communities offer today’s active retirees.

Harbor, we look forward to making new friends, doing some traveling, and coming home to our resort condo.”

Cade Sibley, who currently chairs The Plymouth Harbor Foundation board, exemplifies the next generation of

In addition to an ideal location and those resort-style

CCRC residents’ desire to stay active and community-ori-

amenities, what has also set Plymouth Harbor apart is the

ented. Her parents moved to Plymouth Harbor at age 75,

involvement of residents in shaping the community. Res-

and her father still lives there. “My brothers and I thought

idents play an active role in the community’s planning

they were still too active and vital to move in when they

and governance. Three representatives of the Residents

did, but I get it now. Number one, we never had to worry

Association currently serve on Plymouth Harbor’s Board

about them,” Sibley said. “This was a place we loved to

of Trustees, and also the board of The Plymouth Harbor

visit, and most of all, they were happy. My gift back to my

Foundation. Residents spurred a major capital campaign to

parents is to be involved with the Foundation.”

support renovation of the Pilgrim Hall communal meeting and performing arts center. Initial plans estimated a cost

Sibley is a member of the Harbor Club, which is a social

of $850,000. As with the Wellness Center, completed in

group for individuals on the waiting list and gives them ac-

2014, philanthropic residents and staff stepped forward to

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June 2016

President & CEO Harry E. Hobson

make the project a reality, and by January 2016, more than

construction underway. Located next to the Smith Care

$1.1 million was pledged by 111 donors for the renovation.

Center, the building will include 30 one- and two-bedroom assisted living apartments and 30 memory care res-

Residents’ input also has been crucial to the current ex-

idences incorporating the latest technology. The Memory

pansion of assisted living residences and the addition of

Care Center will have specialized design and program-

Plymouth Harbor’s first Memory Care Center in the new

ming. “The design is more like being in a family home

Northwest Garden building, currently scheduled for com-

with areas familiar to residents, including a kitchen, li-

pletion by the end of 2017. Looking from the perspective

brary, dining room, living room with a fireplace, activity

of a 50-year history, these two projects represent signifi-

space, and access to a secure outdoor garden area,” said

cant milestones for Plymouth Harbor.

Joe Devore, Vice President of Health Services. Plans are to develop the outdoor courtyard with the help of local

“Another significant time that has shaped where we are

arts organizations so it is filled with stimulating objects to

today was the strategic planning done in 2006 when the

capture rresidents’ attention.

Master Site Plan was completed. It directed us toward what needs to happen to position Plymouth Harbor for the

On the third floor of the Northwest Garden building will

future,” Hobson said. “That plan made clear we needed

be 10 luxury two-bedroom residential apartments, which

more assisted living residences and a memory support cen-

already have been pre-sold. “There is a growing demand

ter. It also was felt at the time that another 150 independent

for more two-bedroom residences due in part to the next

living units could be added to our campus.” A pivotal mo-

generation of prospective residents who are primarily cou-

ment occurred about eight years ago when the state au-

ples in their late 60s and early 70s planning for their fu-

thorized Plymouth Harbor to admit non-residents into its

ture,” emphasized Gordon Okawa, Vice President of Mar-

skilled nursing center. “For the first time, we were able to

keting and Community Affairs. “This is a generation who is

accept people from the community at large,” he said. “We

planning and expecting to continue their engaged lifestyle

had some capacity to do that, and it was significant for us.”

and are thinking more proactively about managing their health and finances.” A casual style bistro on the third

Groundbreaking for the new Northwest Garden building

floor will also be a welcoming venue and a great place to

was in December 2015 and the site now is cleared and

host live music.

June 2016

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47

“As we look over the past 50 years at Plymouth Harbor, I think it is this commitment to serve whether as volunteers or on boards and committees of local organizations that makes us part of the fabric of our community.”

– Harry E. Hobson Having set into motion these key elements from the 2006

Harbor staff members and their dedication to meeting res-

strategic plan, Plymouth Harbor is in the process of creat-

idents’ needs as well as to leadership’s commitment to

ing a new strategic plan this year. “People’s expectations

leading edge training. All staff members are trained in the

of what aging and life in retirement should be like have

Positive Approach to Care techniques developed by Tee-

changed. They definitely are looking for life plan com-

pa Snow, who is renowned for her expertise in demen-

munities, but they also are trying to stay at home longer.

tia and Alzheimer’s care. In an industry nationally known

As we look at the next five to 10 years, it’s not out of the

for high employee turnover rates and a shortage of skilled

realm of possibility that Plymouth Harbor could be a re-

healthcare workers, Plymouth Harbor’s turnover rates are

tirement community without walls,” Hobson said. “In the

very low. That’s due, in part, to a focus on employees’

past when we’ve talked about expanding services in our

professional growth and welfare through scholarships, an

industry, it’s always been about bricks and mortar. With

award-winning employee wellness program, and initia-

technology, that’s not the case now.”

tives like the Helping Hand Program, which lets employees donate their accrued time to others who may need

“People are seeing doctors remotely today, and the world

time off because of a personal situation or family crisis.

of virtual reality and how we engage with people in the future is on our minds. Why not embrace technology and

The Good Neighbor Fund, started through residents’ do-

be part of the leadership in this trend?” Hobson sees even

nations, helps employees through a financial emergency.

more demand ahead for high quality care for an aging

This fund recently came to the aid of an employee whose

population, especially with healthcare reform that penal-

home was destroyed by a fire that also injured several fam-

izes hospitals for high readmission rates. “We’re working

ily members. “Everyone rallied around her,” Hobson said.

very closely with the hospitals,” Hobson said. “They have

“Her credit card and identification were destroyed in the

more incentive than ever to discharge patients to a high

fire, so we immediately got $1,000 cash into her hands.

quality center for skilled nursing or rehabilitative care like

One generous individual donated the use of a home to her

the Smith Care Center.”

family until they can get back on their feet. We get a great deal of satisfaction out of helping our staff.”

It’s clear that Plymouth Harbor is not resting on what are some impressive laurels, which include a roomful of

Residents and staff alike also have gained fulfillment by do-

awards and accolades. The Smith Care Center has earned

nating tens of thousands of hours of service to the commu-

a five star rating from U.S. News Health as a certified con-

nity. Volunteers regularly help with food distribution at All

tinuing care retirement community. The ratings are based

Faiths Food Bank and Keep Sarasota County Beautiful road-

on quality of service data collected by the federal Centers

side cleanups and support Meals on Wheels, Mote Marine

for Medicare and Medicaid Services, which sets and en-

Laboratory, children’s welfare, the Walk to End Alzheimer’s,

forces standards for nursing homes enrolled in the two

and much more. “As we look over the past 50 years at Plym-

programs. It also has earned the Governor’s Gold Seal

outh Harbor, I think it is this commitment to serve whether

for Excellence, which is awarded to only about 3 percent

as volunteers or on boards and committees of local organi-

of Florida’s nursing facilities. When Plymouth Harbor re-

zations that makes us part of the fabric of our community,”

ceived the award in January 2016 it was one of only 26 out

Hobson said. “Speaking personally, I can’t envision a more

of about 690 nursing facilities to have it.

rewarding career than this because you know you are helping people and can have a positive influence on residents’

Much of the credit for these accolades goes to Plymouth

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June 2016

lives and the lives of their families.”

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June 2016

Selling the Beach

By Sue Cullen | Photo by John Revisky

Whether he’s selling multimillion dollar Gulf Coast waterfront homes, or building his own portfolio, for well-known third-generation local realtor Michael Holderness, finding a bargain on the beach for HGTV’s “Beachfront Bargain Hunt” was more akin to “Mission Impossible.”

Like the movie franchise’s agent Ethan Hunt, Holderness chose to accept the seemingly impossible – find a two-bedroom, two-bath Siesta Key property on the beach for under $350,000.

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“Finding a beachfront property in that price range on Si-

ing, return rates are still good. Holderness says occupancy rates

esta Key is a tall order,” says Holderness, a Sarasota native

during the summer are up 100 percent over the past five years.

who has been a realtor with his family brokerage, SaraBay Real

With more people wanting to vacation here at all times of year,

Estate, for 20 years and who also owns Siesta Key Beachside

increased demand has doubled rates over the past seven years.

Villas (941-725-0338 | mike@mikeholderness.com). Although

“Yesterday’s vacation rental owners were just looking to break

he routinely helps buyers looking for multi-million dollar prop-

even, but now owners want to see a positive return on their in-

erties, Holderness didn’t back down from the challenge. “They

vestment,” he says. “That still is very possible in this market.”

wanted something on the beach, but didn’t want to break the

As owner of Siesta Key Beachside Villas and Beachside Man-

bank,” he says. “What they were looking for was more in the

agement, Holderness is well versed on the subject of vacation

$1 million range so they did not get everything on their wish

rentals. He sees the same trends that are driving the desire for

list, but they did get the perfect condo, and we kept it under

clean, contemporary lines in residential properties shaping what

$350,000. Regardless of price, I truly enjoy helping customers

people are looking for on vacation. Rather than opting for the

and am excited to find their dream.”

stimulation of a hyperactive cruise environment, relaxing on a

The buyers, a younger professional couple, have family here

beautiful tropical beach is very appealing. “People are leaving

and vacationed on Siesta Key as children. “Now they can bring

their iPads at home. They just want to come here, relax and re-

their kids here for vacation, and who knows? Maybe when they

connect with their kids,” he says. “People are reverting back to

realize their dream of retiring here, they will buy that million dol-

simpler times.”

lar property,” he says. Even though it took four days out of his

That doesn’t mean they don’t want activities when they’re

busy schedule to film the couple viewing four properties before

done building sandcastles, and that’s where Holderness sees an

making their decision, Holderness says it was fun and worth it.

opportunity for Siesta Key and has been vocal in calling on Sara-

The episode is in season 13 and scheduled to run in the fall, he

sota County officials to act. “The county and state pull $50 million

says. And while Holderness calls it “the most entertaining episode

in hotel taxes out of this area, not considering sales and property

ever,” he’s giving away no spoilers.

taxes, but they are putting little back in to help tourism on Siesta,”

Reality television aside, Holderness says the reality in the

he says. “People want to enjoy amenities, but there are no rentals

market is that, while this season saw somewhat fewer buyers, to-

on the beach for paddle boards, bicycles or Hobie Cats. It’s not

day’s buyers are serious. “The looky-loos are gone, and we’re

that we’re changing Siesta Key to be touristy. This is going back to

seeing more quality buyers,” he says. “Sellers need to take any

what we have had here and what has attracted so many people

offers seriously.” While there has been a lack of inventory for the

to move to this area. Visit Sarasota County should have two times

mid-line buyer, that is not the case for high-end homes. “How-

the budget for the amazing job they do, and there’s enough funds

ever, there is a lack of what buyers are looking for, which are

coming into Siesta to more than double their resources while cut-

move-in-ready, high-end waterfront homes,” he says. “They also

ting the hotel tax by 20 percent.”

are looking for a certain style. Fifteen years ago, what many con-

While the past year has been very productive business-wise

sidered ‘homey’ were knick-knacks, dark cabinets and furniture,

for Holderness, there also has been sadness with the loss in Octo-

and overstuffed couches. With the sensory overload coming at

ber of his mother, Judy, who founded SaraBay Real Estate with his

us from our devices and everywhere else, for today’s buyers, it’s

father, Michael Sr. “She was such an important part of our lives. She

all about clean lines and lighter, softer colors. They want a more

led us on the personal as well as the family business and was al-

modern look with a contemporary twist.”

ways there cheering us on. I miss that,” he says. “She did an amaz-

Holderness says the local market still is experiencing two

ing job of preparing us to be even more successful. We’re resilient.”

distinct busy seasons. From February through April, it’s snow-

Watching how his parents, and his grandparents before them,

birds looking for second homes and vacation rentals. The sec-

built their real estate careers on the cornerstones of great customer

ond season is May through August when year-round residents

service, local knowledge and highly professional agents, has in-

are seriously house hunting in order to be settled before the

stilled a strong drive to succeed and a vision for the future. Plans

snowbirds start to come back and they get busier again. “When I

are now in motion to expand SaraBay Real Estate to Sarasota, West

work with buyers, I listen to what they want,” he says. “Because

Bradenton and the Gulf beaches to better serve customers and

I know the inventory very well, I don’t necessarily have to go on

agents with two new locations. “We need to be where our cus-

a big search to find the right home for that buyer. I try to bring

tomers and agents need us to be. Response time is key. People call

the right buyer to the home.”

and need an answer or want to see a house right now,” Holderness

Also this year, Holderness says he is seeing a large increase in demand for vacation rental properties. Even with prices ris-

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June 2016

says. “If I can earn their respect that way, they are my customer for life and refer people to me. There’s no greater feeling than that.”

Fashion Show & Luncheon July 22, 2016 Recycled-Redesigned

Little Black Dress with pop

When: Friday, July 22, 2016 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Where: Michael’s On East

1212 East Ave S. Sarasota, FL 34239

Details: Enjoy a good meal with great friends while watching a fashion

show to rival those in Milan! Models from Junior League of Sarasota and local Girl Scouts have been working tirelessly to craft one-of-a-kind outfits using only what they find at Goodwill.

Join us and show off your own little black dress embellished with your favorite pop of color!

To purchase tickets, visit ExperienceGoodwill.org

June 2016

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Situated in the much sought after, prestigious community of Harbor Acres, this stunning, one-of-a-kind custom home was meticulously designed to impress with its rich architectural detail and clean lines. The home offers 4,037 square feet of living space with 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, plus a study, game room, exercise room and a 3-car garage.

Going through the process of building a home is a daunting task for anyone. How do you choose the builder that’s right for you? The truth is you may not know if you made the right choice until you are too far along in the process – way too late. So what’s the best way to know? Ask your builder if they’ve ever built a second home for a client or were asked to renovate a home they built. That’s real trust and that trust factor proves you’ve got a good one.

One such local builder is TJ Nutter, who knows that integrity is the foundation of a great reputation and the building block of a successful business. Born and raised in Sarasota, his reputation is of the upmost importance to him and honesty and fairness are the codes he lives by.

“We are a relationship company,” said Nutter. We build relationships and trust while designing and building our clients’ homes. We have been working with several of our clients for many years, a few for which we have completed as many as five projects together. We have a mutual trust, which makes the process of building or renovating much easier for everyone involved.”

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June 2016

In this industry, positive word of mouth is imperative in a strong, tight-knit community like Sarasota. “The highest compliment we can receive is the opportunity to build again and again for the same client and having them speak so favorably to their friends and family about their personal building experience. The reward is knowing that you have far exceeded their expectations,” he said.

Just ask Gary Jones. Nutter Custom Construction built a home for Gary and Candice and when their needs changed, TJ Nutter got the nod to build their next home.

“We used to live on Siesta Key in a delightful home originally built in 1926 that was subsequently enlarged, but the structural integrity of the home was a growing concern for us during hurricane season. From there, we made the decision to try out one of the first condos downtown and quickly realized it was not for us,” said Gary. “Eventually we decided to move back into a house and came across T.J. Nutter who was building a model home in Harbor Acres. He had the footers in place, and we went ahead and purchased it. Although the bones of the house were there, T.J. was very accommodating in adopting our ideas about the house, including adding an elevator and making some upgrades to a bathroom and the trim to make it more of a custom house for myself and Candice.”

The grandeur of the open great room plan with exposed beams compliments the hand-scraped Italian white oak flooring leading to a state-of-the-art kitchen equipped with high-end finishes meets the perfect balance of sophistication and functionality.

June 2016

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A work of art, the breathtaking master suite features white marble, a freestanding tub, aquarium glass, and an indoor/outdoor shower with a courtyard.

Taking full advantage of the Florida lifestyle, the outdoor lanai and pool area are suited for elegant entertaining. A large lanai with covered pergolas and well-appointed summer kitchen overlook the carefully designed pool and landscape. A relaxing sun shelf with stepping stones spills over to the generously sized pool, which leads to a built-in spa with a trellised rain feature all nestled into the perfect tropical setting.

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June 2016

“That process took about 12 months and we got to know the supervisor, crew and staff. We were impressed with them as a team. They work very hard and have an eye for detail and quality,” he said. “We like the house, and the style fits well with its neighbors, but we had the opportunity to buy the lot adjacent to us. I had been thinking about a few needs, such as different accommodations for some classic cars I collect and adding a guesthouse as well as creating a residence that was architecturally interesting.”

Gary and Candice hired Mark Sultana with DSDG Architects to design a coastal contemporary style home with lots of glass and space to display the couple’s eclectic art they’ve collected from all parts of the world that also would have minimal maintenance with stainless steel, aluminum and concrete. “Our desire is for a modern design that is exciting and different, but at the same time very comfortable for those who live in it,” he said. We did our research on other builders in the area, but in the end, it was not much of a decision, and we chose T.J. He reaches over backward to be accommodating to our needs. That’s important because construction in this booming market can get frustrating if things take longer than planned. T.J. handles all that, and in the end, the quality of what he does is what lasts and is important in the long term.”

Well into construction, their new residence will have many modern design elements, but with its curved roof-line creating unique, gentle spaces inside and out, it will also offer a warm feeling not typically found in modern design.

For more information on homes constructed by Nutter Custom Construction or to learn how we can design and build your masterpiece, please contact (941.924.1868).

June 2016

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SOLD! Highest Price SingleFamily Home Resales:

Twelve single-family homes sold in Sarasota County for more than $5 million with 11 of these sales all cash.

(Listing agents are noted on the left, selling agents are noted on the right under each property)

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1) 1204 Hillview Drive in Harbor Acres $7,050,000 Marcia Salkin, Michael Saunders & Co | Stephanie Church, Michael Saunders & Co

2) 3475 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key $7,000,000 Judy Kepecz-Hays, Coldwell Banker | Lori Cashi-Haught, Coldwell Banker 3) 1459 Bay Point Park, Sarasota $6,825,000 Kim Ogilvie, Michael Saunders & Co | Bruce Myer, Coldwell Banker 4) 8306 Sanderling Road, Siesta Key $6,250,000 Stephanie Church, Michael Saunders & Co | Linda Weber, Coldwell Banker 5) 3331 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key $6,200,000 Tom Delaney, Michael Saunders & Co | Bruce Myer, Coldwell Banker Note: Expected to close on July 27, 2016 (post printing of this article) is 3315 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota, listed for sale for $8,700,000 by Joel Schemmel, Premier Sotheby’s.

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What were the most expensive homes sold in Sarasota and Manatee counties in the past year? What were the highest price homes sold in country club communities? Who sold them? Which agents had the highest priced sales and who had the most overall sales? Which real estate offices in Sarasota and Manatee counties sold the most? What does $2 million buy you in Sarasota and Manatee counties?

Look no further. Here are the “real” answers* by the numbers.

(Based on sales reported on MLS from May 15, 2015 through May 16, 2016)

1204 HILLVIEW DRIVE

Seven single-family homes sold in Manatee County for more than $3 million with four of these sales all cash.

1) 6477 Gulfside Drive, Longboat Key $4,300,000 Reid Murphy, Developers Realty | Maureen Horn, Michael Saunders & Co

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2) 807 North Shore Drive, Anna Maria $3,750,000 Jason Sato, Sato Real Estate (represented both sides of the transaction) 3) 101 Palmetto Ave, Anna Maria $3,600,000 Judy Kepecz-Hayes, Coldwell Banker (represented both sides of the transaction) 4) 2907 Avenue F, Holmes Beach $3,200,000 George DeSear Island Investment Realty | Kathleen White, Island Real Estate – Anna Maria 5a) 202 35th Street, Holmes Beach $3,000,000 Creighton Faust, Anna Maria Island Beaches Real Estate | Nicki Conway, Re/Max Alliance Group 5b) 5145 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key $3,000,000 Mike Holderness, SaraBay Real Estate (represented both sides of the transaction)

Highest Price New Construction Single Family Home in Manatee: 15506 Anchorage Place, Lake Club, Lakewood Ranch $3,981,000 Selling agent: Sharon Straw, Dwell Real Estate

TOP

12

Realtors by Market Share (Ranked by Total Volume, Non-developer)

SARASOTA COUNTY

MANATEE COUNTY

1) Roger Pettingell, Coldwell Banker

1) Jim Soda, Premier Sotheby’s

2) Kim Ogilvie, Michael Saunders & Co

2) Jason Sato, Sato Real Estate

3) Barbara Ackerman, Coldwell Banker

3) Judy Kepecz-Hays, Coldwell Banker

4) Bruce Myer, Coldwell Banker

4) Christy Travis, Re/Max Alliance Group

5) Judy Kepecz-Hays, Coldwell Banker

5) Gregg Bayer, Anna Maria Island Beaches Realty

6) Stephanie Church, Michael Saunders & Co 7) Lynne Koy, Coldwell Banker 8) Joel Schemmel, Premier Sotheby’s 9) Ian Addy, Michael Saunders & Co 10) Patrick DiPinto, III, Ocean Real Estate 11) Cheryl Loeffler, Premier Sotheby’s 12) Brandy Coffey, Keller Williams on the Water

6) Deborah Angelo O’Mara, Michael Saunders & Co 7) Timothy Lester, Timothy Lester International Realty 8) Judy Aarnes, Coldwell Banker 9) Lee Rugh, Michael Saunders & Co 10) Joe Murphy, Coldwell Banker 11) Ingrid Caruso, Michael Saunders & Co 12) Linda Melnick, Wagner Realty June 2016

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Highest Price Condo Sales: Fifteen condos sold in Sarasota County for more than $3 million with 12 of the 15 sales all cash transactions. Of these sales, nine were in new condo developments - seven condos in Aria on Longboat Key and two condos in One88 on Golden Gate Point.

1) 1300 Benjamin Franklin Dr Unit#1101 (Ritz-Carlton Beach Residences) $4,000,000 Cheryl Loeffler, Premier Sotheby’s | Stephanie Church, Michael Saunders & Co 2) 361 Ben Franklin Drive, Palazzi Al Mare $3,500,000 Dyrk Dahl & Ben Bates, Coldwell Banker | Dyrk Dahl

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3) 2399 Gulf of Mexico Drive Unit 3C1, Vizcaya at Longboat Key $3,450,000 Maureen Horn, Michael Saunders & Co | Ingrid Caruso & Leigh Rugh, Michael Saunders & Co 4) 35 Watergate Drive Unit 1501 (The Tower Residences) $3,400,000 Joan Dickinson & Beth Afflebach, Michael Saunders & Co | Marie Monsky & Saint Cacchiotti, Michael Saunders & Co 5) 1281 Gulf of Mexico Drive Unit#1002, Water Club at Longboat Key $3,285,000 Roger Pettingell, Coldwell Banker | Shirley Lagrange, Coldwell Banker

Highest Price Home Sold in a Country Club Community (New Construction): 3231 Signet Court, Founders Club $2,432,810 London Bay Homes

Office Market Share Report (Ranked by Total Volume)

SARASOTA COUNTY 1) Re/Max Alliance Group, Webber Street

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2) Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, 50 Central Avenue 3) Michael Saunders & Co, Main Street 4) Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, Gulf of Mexico Drive, LBK

13518 MATANZAS PLACE

Highest Price Resales in Manatee Country Club Communities: (Four of the five sales were all cash)

5) Michael Saunders & Co, S Tamiami Trail

MANATEE COUNTY 1) Michael Saunders & Co, Lakewood Ranch Blvd.

2) Keller Willams Realty Select, Lakewood Ranch Blvd.

3) Keller Wililams on the Water, 6th Ave W. 4) Re/Max Allliance Group, Manatee Ave W. 5) Premier Sotheby’s Int’l Realty, Lakewood Main St.

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1) 7933 Waterton Lane, Lakewood Ranch, Lake Club $2,525,000 Jo Rutstein, Premier Sotheby’s | Jim Soda, Premier Sotheby’s

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2) 19110 Ganton Ave, Bradenton The Concession $2,500,000 Stacy Haas Goodwin, Premier Sotheby’s | Terri Healey, Michael Saunders & Co 3) 8309 Lindrick Lane, Bradenton, The Concession $2,300,000 Mark Grigoli, Elite Properties | Paul Bright, Elite Properties 4) 13518 Matanzas Place, Lakewood Ranch, The Country Club $2,350,000 Renee Preininger, Sarasota Trust Realty (represented both sides of the transaction) 5) 7018 Portmarnock Place, Lakewood Ranch, The Country Club $2,075,000 Jim Soda, Premier Sotheby’s | Christy Travis, Re/Max Alliance Group

Highest Price Resales in Sarasota Country Club Communities: 1) 3985 Founders Club Drive, Founders Club $1,755,000 Tammy Garner, Coldwell Banker | Joshua Beckmann, Beckmann Properties 2) 470 E Macewen Drive, Osprey, The Oaks Country Club $1,750,000 Joel Schemmel. Premier Sotheby’s | Kim Ogilvie, Michael Saunders & Co

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3) 95 Osprey Point Drive, Osprey, The Oaks Bayside $1,700,000 Betty Mullinix & Steve Abbe, Berkshire Hathaway | Marni Hayden, My Realty Company 4) 373 Sugar Mill Drive, Osprey, The Oaks Bayside $1,525,000 Joel Schemmel, Premier Sotheby’s | Sarah McGuire, Michael Saunders & Co 5) 2895 Dick Wilson Drive, Laurel Oak $1,435,000 Joel Schemmel, Premier Sotheby’s (represented both sides of the transaction)

Note: Expected to close on May 31, 2016 (post printing of this article) is 112 Osprey Point Dr., The Oaks Bayside, listed for sale for $4,449,000 by Sania Allen, Edelen Company.

Here’s what $2 million buys in today’s market in Sarasota and Manatee counties: Sold for $2,070,000 1607 Lake Shore Dr, Sarasota Ian Addy, Michael Saunders & Co | Pat Mudgett, Michael Saunders & Co

Sold for $2,050,000 812 S Bay Blvd, Anna Maria This property was represented

by George Myers formerly with Premier Real Estate, now Michael Saunders & Company | Billi Gartman, Duncan Real Estate

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SPECI A L M A R K ET I NG SECT ION June 2016

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PHOTO BY CLIFF ROLES

Denise Mei & Nicole Mei Deftly engaging a finely tuned sense of customer service,

our shared passionate approach to every transaction.” Denise

entrepreneurial flair, and her solid connections to the

adds, “We both love working with our clients and with each

community, Denise is the epitome of what the ultimate Broker

other. Our goal for every transaction is that everyone leaves the

Associate is all about. Denise spent 22 years as a flight attendant

closing table happy.”

perfecting her skills at dealing with people and her nearly 30 years in Sarasota and community involvement have given her

Both Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialists, this

a deep knowledge of the area. Her service and dedication to

successful duo is adept at offering good advice for buyers and

her clients has helped rank her among the top tier of producing

sellers ensuring the sellers’ pricing reflects the market and that

agents at Michael Saunders & Company.

buyers find the right property at the right price. “We pride ourselves on our good negotiating skills and anticipation of

With her real estate career in high gear, Denise needed help.

problems before they become an issue and resolve them before

Luckily for her, she didn’t have to look far. Her daughter-in-

closing,” said Denise. They are anticipating another busy year

law Nicole, who is married to Denise’s son, Michael, was the

given all the new properties becoming available this year.

perfect partner choice. Nicole’s years of experience in property management gave her the foundation she needed to make the

When they aren’t helping their clients, Denise and Nicole enjoy

transition to real estate a few years ago, and now this family

family time and can often be found at their popular family

team just loves working together. As Nicole explains, “We

restaurant, Café Baci. Denise and her husband, Roberto, have

bring diverse skills, strengths and experiences to complement

owned the restaurant for 25 years.

Realtors®, Michael Saunders & Company 1801 Main Street | Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941.951.6660 | meiteam.michaelsaunders.com

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Terri Harrington & Michelle Ward Consistently among Sarasota’s top agents, Terri Harrington (right) and Michelle Ward (left) of Allison James Estates & Homes aim to be the new face of the city’s favorite luxury real estate agents. Harrington and Ward have built their business on long-term relationships with clients and on client referrals for high-end residential, commercial, and investment properties. In order to be able to act in their clients’ best interests, the two women spend time getting to know their clients, and as a result, clients often become friends. The team‘s commitment to its clients is based on creating personal client service that goes beyond expectations.

As a seasoned expert with over a decade of experience, Harrington’s real estate career has been dedicated to luxury waterfront residences, luxury custom home builds and commercial properties. Ward has experience as a project manager for residential and commercial construction, and enjoys providing buyers with savvy advice regarding requirements and costs of achieving what they desire.

The Gulf Coastal Property Group represents buyers and sellers from around the world providing superior results for clients. Extremely knowledgeable about the areas many attractions and the luxury real estate market, Harrington and Ward enjoy uniting buyers and sellers and believe elite properties continue to be in strong demand.

The group recently listed a Gulf-front home on Siesta Key at $5.995 million, which includes​an adjacent Gulf-front lot. The property also can be sold as an estate compound with two additional homes, featuring the key’s only Gulf to bay views, at $8.995 million. Harrington and Ward also have a $3.7 million dollar commercial listing featuring a Gulf-front restaurant, with the potential of becoming a $30 million​​​project. While this kind of success comes with a lot of hard work and attention to detail, Harrington and Ward are quick to express gratitude to the many other professionals, including brokers, Realtors, marketing teams, lawyers, lenders, and builders, who have played an important part in helping them throughout their careers.

If you’re in the market for Sarasota Luxury Real Estate, you can trust, Harrington and Ward.

Realtors®, Allison James Estates & Homes 630 South Orange Avenue #102 | Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941.527.7244 | gulfcoastalproperty.com June 2016

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Brandy Coffey Building on the success of her Coffey & Company team at Keller Williams Luxury Homes on Longboat Key, broker Brandy Coffey is expanding her fullconcierge service with the opening of a new market center on Venice Island. Coffey sees Venice’s small town charm as very appealing to buyers and reflected in the interest shown by developers and builders in the new home construction market there. She plans to build the Venice franchise in the same way she has built her Coffey & Company team in Sarasota by going beyond the transaction and providing buyers and sellers a memorably positive experience.

That approach has resulted in Coffey’s team closing $60 million in sales in the past 12 months, 52 percent of which were from repeat business or client referrals. This year, she is aiming to close $100 million in sales. While Coffey specializes in luxury real estate, she believes she truly is selling the area’s unique lifestyle whether the buyer is looking for a $500,000 property as a third or fourth home or a multi-million dollar waterfront estate.

Her formula for delivering impeccable service is building a team of licensed, experienced specialists who value continuing education to stay on top of their game.

Coffey is her team’s lead listing specialist, and other members are buyer specialists. While training is voluntary, the new Venice market center offers training programs every weekday for beginning to experienced agents.

With many professional credentials, including a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist designation, Coffey shares her expertise by conducting training herself. That focus on honing excellence initially attracted her to Keller Williams as did the company’s profit sharing program, which allows agents’ input into operational decisions. Coffey also appreciates the Keller Williams Cares program, which is funded by a portion of every commission and supports agents whose livelihoods are affected by natural disaster or illness. Locally, her team has been focusing their philanthropic efforts to support the Boys & Girls Clubs.

Licensed Real Estate Broker, Coffey & Company, Keller Williams Luxury Homes International 22 S. Links Ave. Suite #204 | Sarasota FL 34236 | 877.308.6311 | insarasotarealestate.com

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PHOTO BY NANCY GUTH

Renee Preininger Realtor Renee Dedio Preininger of Sarasota Trust Realty Company has always had a passion for family, a love of all things “homerelated,” and a strong desire for helping people. Never did she think she would combine all three into a career. After many moves across the country from New Jersey to Ohio, California and Florida, Renee understands the challenges and emotions facing families in buying and selling a home. She learned the art of negotiating and acquired a talent for communication during a 20-year sales career as a national account executive for a major gift company prior to launching her own business designing, manufacturing and selling to large retailers including Wal-Mart, Target, Costco Wholesale, and Sam’s Club.

After settling in Florida and 10 years as an entrepreneur, Renee sold her business to spend more time with her daughters during their adolescent years. But her passion for real estate never ceased. Her brother, Tony Dedio, had a successful career in real estate as broker for Naples Trust Realty Company in Naples, Florida since 2003. When he launched Sarasota Trust Realty

Company, Renee was able to combine her love of family and real estate into one when she “jumped all in”.

Renee loves the unique experience of working in a boutique real estate company that allows her to be involved in every aspect of her client’s home buying and selling experience. “A successful and seamless real estate transaction is expected of me from my clients, but it is equally important to ensure that my clients are happy in their new surroundings,” she says.

While she works hard, she doesn’t mind the long hours because “when you are blessed with the ability to turn your passion into a career, it doesn’t feel like work.” In May, Renee closed the largest resale in Lakewood Ranch Country Club in recent years at $2.35 million, representing both buyer and seller.

A firm believer in giving back, she supports various national and local foundations, including St. Jude Children’s Research, the Taylor Emmons Scholarship Fund and The V Foundation for Cancer Research.

Realtor®, Sarasota Trust Realty Company 941.400.4235 | reneeworks4u@gmail.com June 2016

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PHOTO BY JOHN REVISKY

Michelle Crabtree As a third generation Sarasotan, Michelle Crabtree remembers horseback riding in what is now The Landings, when the south access to Siesta Key was a one-lane bridge, and University Parkway was just a dirt road called County Line Rd. Today, as a Broker Associate with Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, Michelle enjoys her memories of a sleepier town, but loves the vibrancy, culture, and amenities of a Sarasota that is now not just known for sandy beaches, but also for sports, medical support, the arts, and eco-tourism.

Year after year, Michelle sits among the areas top Realtors®. She has earned many professional recognitions including Five Star Realtor for nine years, Florida Realtors® Honor Society for nine years, and a Meritorious Service Award from the local Realtor Association two times, where she is active on several committees and serves as the current chair of the Communications Committee. Michelle is also a strong proponent of continuing education having earned 12 advanced real estate designations. She is also a graduate of the Florida Realtors® 2014 Leadership Academy.

Michelle has expertise in both Sarasota and Manatee counties and was manager of the Lakewood Ranch Visitor Information Center during the time when it was celebrating its 1,000th home. She enjoys helping buyers find the perfect home whether they enjoy golf course communities, downtown condo living or the feel of an island lifestyle.

The same commitment she shows for her profession extends to the community. Michelle serves on the Habitat for Humanity Sarasota board, has co-chaired its fundraiser, and works on building sites. She is also involved with her alma mater USF’s annual Brunch on the Bay, SPARCC’s annual fundraiser and the Junior League. When she has time to relax, she enjoys boating on the Braden River with her husband and Rotty.

Realtor®, Broker Sales Associate, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty 8141 Lakewood Main St., Ste. 101 | Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 | 941.724.4663 | sales@crabtreehomes.com | crabtreehomes.com

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SOCIAL JFCS Tribute to Veterans Service to Community Awards Lunch Nearly 200 guests joined JFCS of the Suncoast at the 4th Annual Tribute to Veterans Service to Community Awards Luncheon. Honorees were COL Len Friedlander, Christopher Keilty, COL Ben Knisely, Harold Ronson, Ellwood “Woody” Schiffman and CAPT Thomas Smith. These individuals, who were nominated by local veterans’ organizations, were selected because they inspire patriotism, provide service to others, and offer hope to other veterans. The luncheon supported the programs and services of the JFCS Operation Military Assistance Program, which offers case management and financial assistance to veterans and their families who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

COL Troy C. Scott served as the Chair of the event.

Photos by Nancy Guth

Ben Knisely, Caroline Zucker & Sheriff Tom Knight

Ellwood “Woody”Schiffman, Harold Ronson, Col. Len Friedlander, Capt. Tom Smith, Col. Ben Knisely, Chris Keilty

Rose Chapman & Steve Seidensticker

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SCENES FROM AN INTERVIEW

A Writer with a

Knack for the Right Words

Gus Mollasis Interviews William “Bill” Nack

He loves words and it shows. He loves horses and they’ve always had a place in his heart. But it is in his storytelling where Bill Nack has always ended up in the winner’s circle for two reasons. He’s always had the knack to resolve and balance the battle between the clarity and euphony of his writing.

As an acclaimed author and awardwinning writer for Sports Illustrated, he’s covered an array of topics in his writer’s life. While taking his ride around the track, he’s captured his love of horseracing with a passion and poetic prose as evidenced by his book, Secretariat: The Making of Champion, which was made into a film loved by his good pal - film critic Roger Ebert. The truth is Roger loved Bill - as a friend, a writer, and as someone with whom he could share vacations and great literature and call on often to recite his favorite verses from Wolfe, Camus or Fitzgerald. Bill would always oblige and even does so in Roger’s farewell documentary, Life Itself, in which he recites the ending of Fitzgerald’s Great Gatsby. In many ways Bill Nack is a lot like a Roger Ebert review. Straight. Clear. Knowledgeable. Passionate. And someone who invites you into the conversation. True to his Irish roots, he is a storyteller, but one who only relies on the facts. It should come as no surprise that his book, My Turf: Horses, Boxers, Blood Money and the Sporting Life, was used as a text for a long form narrative nonfiction class at Columbia University. As I was set to interview Bill the day before the Kentucky Derby, I couldn’t wait to see the pageantry of this writer’s colorful race with words and take in some winning scenes from an interview of his life.

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Bill Nack in 1946 holding his first Secretariat

“So there I was walking on the race track with a spiral notebook and pair of gym shoes, galloping from one barn to another. Two months later, this unknown, unraced two-year-old showed up at barn five, where the Kentucky Derby winner Riva Ridge was. His name was Secretariat.”

When did you first discover that the pen and paper were your friends?

I started writing little doggerel poetry in high school. In Mrs. Dougherty’s English class, I started reading and liking Frost and Tennyson. My mother was Irish and I think I inherited her facility with words and love of language. When she was young, she wrote text for Hallmark.

Please share that fond memory from your book, Ruffian, recanting Wing Commander and Bo Jangles.

Where were you born?

The North Side of Chicago.

You have a love of horses. Please share an early horse tale from your childhood.

We moved to Skokie in 1951. About a year later my sister became interested in horses and my mother took us to the E.J. Holdorf Riding School where I rode a horse for the first time. The horse was named Partheon. He was a big old chestnut horse.

One day I was riding him down the bridle path and he ran away with me. It was the scariest thing I had ever been through.

Which teams did you follow as a child?

Cubs and Bears. I started going to Cubs games when I was 8 years old. Those days a kid could hop a streetcar and go to the ballpark by themself without any worries. My parents would give my brother and me half a dollar and put us on the streetcar in front of the apartment in Chicago and we’d be at Wrigley Field in 15 minutes after making a couple of switches.

Were you a good student?

No. I was diagnosed by wife many years later as having ADD. I couldn’t concentrate and was an average student who was much too restless. I’d read three or four pages of a book and would lose interest.

Wing Commander was the greatest five gaited saddle horse of all time. Undefeated. I think I saw him in his very last class. A magnificent animal. There are five gaits - walk, trot, canter, slow gait and rack. Wing Commander was the fastest of the rackers. He’d go tearing around that ring, passing everybody and he would get hoots and howls. He had a beautiful slow gait that was beautifully conformed. Wing Commander, a stallion, came to Chicago in 1955 in what was announced as his last show to perform against a gelding named Bo Jangles in the grand championship at the International Amphitheatre. They went through their paces as the judges watched. They had a hell of time getting Wing Commander to canter, but that was the least important of the gaits. The two gaits that were the most important were the slow gait and the rack. When they sent them into the slow gait, they were kind of together. And all of sudden, the announcer said, “Rack on.” That’s when Wing Commander took off and beat Bo Jangles. The Amphitheatre was filled with thousands of people yelling and screaming in an uproar.

It was a thrilling sight to see these two absolutely gorgeous animals, physically almost perfect specimens, competing against each other at the highest levels of showing horses. I think what really attracted me was the circus-like quality of it.

Please share your personal memory when Swaps, the 1955 Kentucky Derby winner, lost an important race.

When I was getting involved with show horses in the early 1950s, I remember watching Swaps win the Kentucky Derby over Nashua on TV. They called him the California Comet. I don’t know why, but I had an affinity for California horses. I just developed a real affection for him. He became my hero.

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University of Illinois 1965

Editor-in-chief of Daily Illini

He ran a match race against Nashua, which he shouldn’t have done because he had a bad foot. That set up a rubber match where they would run against each other. Swaps was a real pretty chestnut, with a kind of cameo quality to his head. Someone famously said, “It looked like he was sculpted by Praxiteles,” the great Greek sculptor. I love chestnut-colored horses. Both Man o’ War and Secretariat were chestnut. Golden color. Swaps was extremely fast. And I loved that whole idea of speed. I became interested in the racetrack in the mid 1950s, so my affection for horses became divided between show horses and racehorses.

Swaps lost the match race to Nashua, which made me sick to my stomach. The day he lost, as they crossed the finish line, I dashed out the front door, threw up on a tree next to our house, jumped on a bicycle and drove around Skokie for two or three hours by myself. I was devastated. I was 14-years old and it was like the end of the world. That made me like him even more because I knew he was a great race horse and he shouldn’t have run in that race. There were rumors of him being unsound, but they ran him anyway because this was a major sporting event in America and they couldn’t scratch Swaps. Writers came from all over the world to cover the race. The next year they fixed him up and he was better. In 1956, he started out the year breaking a world record, and then he came to Hollywood Park. That year he broke four world records. The great trainer, Charlie Winningham, told me, “I never saw a horse in my life that could have beat Swaps at Hollywood Park in 1956.” Boy was he my hero, this horse named Swaps.

Roger was such a pain in the neck to people. He was very arrogant, self-possessed, loud, boisterous, conceited and insufferable. He would look over your shoulder and correct your copy. He was like what Woodward did to Bernstein in All the President’s Men. He’d look over your shoulder and say, “This isn’t right. Let me do it for you.” He became so unpopular that there was actually a move to get rid of him and fire him from The Daily Illini so he couldn’t come back.

Finally the editor, Wade Freeman, told him, “Roger you’re obnoxious with people and you’re really ruining it for yourself. You’re very talented and I’d love to have you on the staff, but you’ve got treat people better.” It really had an impact on him. Roger realized he had a serious people skills problem and he had to be more empathetic. Not everybody was “Roger Ebert.” Not everybody had read Wolfe’s Look Homeward Angel or The Stranger by Camus by the time he was 20. But Roger had.

Tell me about first meeting Roger Ebert when you worked at The Daily Illini and Roger was your editor.

So you became fast friends through your mutual love of words and literature?

I first met Roger in 1962 when I was the new guy and he was the news editor. He was a prodigy and a big deal.

Karen Lucus, who I went to high school with, was the editor of the paper and Roger was third in line. At that time,

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What kind of guy was he when you really got to know him?

I never had a cross word with Roger Ebert in my entire life. It’s really odd. I never looked at him and disliked him, or looked at him and said, “I’m going to get even with him.” I never found him to be arrogant and difficult. He was always very nice and sharing. I would recite a poem and he loved that stuff. I kind of earned my stripes with him by loving poetry and literature because that’s what he loved.

You’re exactly right. That is exactly what happened. I was not as mature as he was. I hadn’t read as much as he had, but I read enough, and I had an understanding of words that I think was in my Irish DNA that can’t be taught.

Roger Ebert & Carolyne Nack in Rancho La Puerta, 2005

front of the audience and take whatever subject they were talking about and relate it to my own stories. I attended for 15 or 16 years in a row, but when Roger was not able to do it anymore, I kind of lost interest.

Tell me about your unique talent of being able to recite great lengths of great literature on command.

You’re featured in Roger’s film Life Itself. What made him the dynamic and iconic reviewer that all reviewers are measured by?

He became such an iconic figure, because he not only overcame the arrogant patronizing attitude he had toward people, he became the opposite. He became totally empathetic. And he never wrote down to people. He wrote for the masses but he never used nine dollar words. He was never patronizing, and you never felt he was saying, “I’ll tell you what’s going on.” It was always, “Come join me and let’s talk about this.”

Finish the review…

Life Itself is the kind of film that…

Roger would have loved because it dealt with his accomplishments as a person and movie critic, as well as the dark passages of his life he had to get through in order to become a transcendent figure. He insisted that the film be true to his life and not whitewash anything.

As a writer Roger was…

Clear, erudite and often lyrical. In fact as he got older and more debilitated in his illness, and lost his capacity for speech, he became even deeper and better as a writer. I thought the journal he kept over the last five years of his life constituted the best writing of his life.

As a friend Roger was…

Absolutely loyal, caring and sharing. We attended each other’s weddings and after marrying Carolyne in 2004, we started vacationing together. He got me involved and invited to the Conference on World Affairs in 1990s. Roger called it the “Leisure of the Theory Class,” making fun of the book The Theory of the Leisure Class. I tell stories. So I’d sit up there in

I had a great memory for poetry and prose. Roger had produced this show called “A Concert in Words” at the spa and fitness resort Rancho La Puerta where we went on our vacations together with our wives. I’d stand up in front of an audience for 45 minutes and recite prose and poetry, which Roger loved and insisted that I do. Of course it took away a lot of the fun of being at the spa, sitting there re-memorizing lines I learned years before. I would recite works from Frost, Proust, Nabokov, Wolfe, Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, and James Agee, who Roger thought of as the first film critic. This mutual love of literature truly bonded our friendship.

Can you share the story about your great knowledge of the Kentucky Derby and how it led you to a new positon?

I was covering the legislature for Newsday and I was at our Christmas party in 1971. Ever since Swaps had won the 1955 Derby, I had memorized all the Derby winners from 1875 on. At this party, I stood up on the desk and recited all of them. When I got down off the desk, the editor of the paper, one of the greatest editors I’ve ever known, David Levinthal, came up to me and said, “Why do you know that?” And I said, “I thought everybody knew that.”

He started laughing and then said, “No really, why do you know that? That’s so unusual.” So I gave him my whole background with horses, how I was a groom; how I loved Swaps and carried a picture of Swaps in my wallet, which I showed him. He looked at me and said, “You’re not happy doing what you’re doing at Newsday, are you?” I told him not particularly. He said, “Well Bill, we want to make you happy. How would you like to be our horseracing writer?

We need a horseracing writer. We’re a six-day paper now and we’re going to be a seven-day paper in April of ‘72.

We’re adding a Sunday paper and we need a guy to cover Belmont, Aqueduct and Saratoga. We don’t have a writer right now, the last one was fired for taking money from jockeys.” Five minutes later after talking to my then wife, who thought it was perfect for me, I got back with David and said yes. He said, “Good, why don’t you start in March of next year for the Triple Crown season. He had one caveat.

In order to prevent editors from thinking we’d gone crazy, he asked me to write a memo asking for the job so he could June 2016

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Bill Nack on the set of Secretariat with John Malkovich on the left, and below with Diane Lane

post it, and that would clear up a lot of questions. I wrote a memo that was self-serving, but did contain one line that I remember: “After covering politicians for years, I’d like the chance to cover the whole horse.” He loved that line and posted it on the bulletin board. People were laughing about it and that’s how I got the job. So there I was walking on the race track with a spiral notebook and pair of gym shoes, galloping from one barn to another. Two months later, this unknown, unraced two-year-old showed up at barn five, where the Kentucky Derby winner Riva Ridge was, and his name was Secretariat.

Is Secretariat: The Making of Champion the piece of literature you are most proud of?

I think so. I was very tight when I started the book except for the birth part because that was a nice story to tell. Writing history about people I didn’t interview, that I got information from clips and books, I was less comfortable with. I‘d always been a writer who had written based on what I had seen. I did have some voices in there like Alfred Vanderbilt, who bred the mother of Bold Ruler, the sire of Secretariat. When I got to the parts where I actually witnessed the Secretariat run, like the Triple Crown, it flowed beautifully because I could write about what I had seen.

What did Secretariat mean to you?

He’s the ideal race horse who could do anything you wanted him to do. Go to the front; come from behind; run inside or outside of horses. He could run on off tracks and might have been a better turf horse than he was a dirt horse, as remarkable as that sounds. Every time he ran on turf he just destroyed horses and he was just a magnificent grass horse. He could sprint as fast as any horse ever ran and he could go the mile and a half in world record time like he did at the Belmont Stakes. Secretariat was the greatest racehorse that ever lived and a cultural icon that became the symbol of perfection. This indeed is the source of affection we have for him.

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A horse can be a champion, but can Secretariat be considered an athlete?

Secretariat was absolutely an athlete. He trained and learned how to do it like a runner or basketball player. He had skills and had to learn how to switch leads, run inside and outside of horses and not be intimidated. Every morning he went to the race track and galloped or worked out so that his heart rate could be brought down. He lost weight. He was an athlete.

Your book on Secretariat was made into a successful film that your friend Roger Ebert liked. How do you feel about the film?

I really liked the film, but as you know it’s Hollywood and there are things in there that are real “stretchers” as Mark Twain would say. I thought John Malkovich and Diane Lane did a great job, and I’m glad that Roger loved the film.

For Sports Illustrated, you wrote profiles on some of the most legendary boxers of all time. What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the following names?

Sugar Ray Leonard: The real deal, fast tough. He looked like a choir boy but hit like a grizzly bear.

Sonny Liston: A sad tragic fighter who was never appreciated as the heavyweight champion.

On meeting Jack Dempsey, did you feel that you had come full circle, as your dad was a big Dempsey fan?

That’s how I got involved in boxing. My father and I used to watch the fights on Friday nights. We loved it and I be-

came familiar with all the early names – Jack Johnson, Joe Lewis and Rocky Marciano. I met Jack Dempsey at his bar when I first moved to New York. He was very kind and one of the greatest greeters of all time. Everybody was his friend. He always had a smile on his face and signed autographs. Here was this guy, who was a hobo for many years, who rode the rail, and he’d go into a bar and say, “I can lick anybody in the house.” Everybody would put up money and they’d take off their shirts and he’d box whoever wanted to box him.

Tell me about hunting down chess champion Bobby Fisher for a story.

Between assignments at Sports Illustrated, I flew to California looking for the reclusive Bobby Fischer in Pasadena. There’d been sightings of him like Sasquatch. I’d follow the sightings. I became so frustrated that I couldn’t find him that I hung out at the main library in Los Angeles on Flower Street where he would occasionally show up. I spent days there looking for him from morning until night. Finally one day, after 23 months of looking for him, I went to a Goodwill store and bought $4.00 worth of clothes. Pants that didn’t fit me. Shoes with no laces.

Gray paint for my hair. Some spectacles. An ugly tie and

a sport coat with stains on it. And I put it all in for expenses at Sports Illustrated, for something like $4.73 for all the clothes. They thought it was hysterical. I went to the library after first seeing a palm reader named Lady Lola, who advised me that Bobby was somewhere very hot and that he should be left alone. I thought well I’m not going to leave him alone. I went to the library at closing time and they rang the bell like in a department store. I made my way to the foyer where all the card catalogs were and there he was ten feet away looking right at me. I ducked behind the card catalog and thought what the hell do I do now? I was shocked. I didn’t know what to do. I followed him out of the library all the way to the point where he got on a bus. I was five feet behind him and I was ready to reach out and tap him on the shoulder and I thought damn, I can’t do that.

This man is a private citizen and he’s already paranoid as a coyote. I could have put on a Hungarian accent and said, “Bobby, my name is Zoltan, I’m a chess champion.” But that was fake. I couldn’t impersonate someone. I couldn’t have written about it. It would be unfair and unethical by my standards. I could have gone up to him and said, “I’m from Sports Illustrated, come on Bobby people are looking for you.” And he would have said, “Get out of my life. What are you doing following me?” I know that’s how the conversation would have gone. And I would have ruined his year.

Now he’s a private citizen and no longer the chess champion. He’s chosen a life of reclusion and privacy. And I’m going to violate it? For what? So I just left him alone. That was the ending of my story. I was very proud of that. New York Times sportswriter Robert Lipsyte once told me, “You hit hyperspace when you hit the end of that story.” Until then I had been roundly criticized for not talking to him. I thought it was the right thing to do. What I found fascinating is that of all the people that commented on the story, only the guys criticized it. You know who was 100 percent behind me the way the story ended? Women.

Finish the following sentences: I love horse racing because…

The central characters have integrity, grace and always live within the law.

I love to write because…

I like wordplay and the sound and rhythm of words. Those happy accidents when two words are joined together in a kind of matrimony that makes the heart sing.

The sport of boxing is…

The most dangerous sport outside of football that I’ve ever followed. Part of its decline is due to the fact that so many of its practitioners including Ali, end up in sad physical states.

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A champion is someone…

Who rises above the norm and actually transcends the sport in which they’re involved.

How did you find your way to Sarasota?

We wanted a get away from DC winters to golf and get some sun in Florida.

My wife Carolyne spent time here as a child. She liked the idea that Sarasota was the cultural center of Florida, where we could go catch an opera, ballet, great theater as well as wonderful sunsets.

You do what they call obituary pieces ahead of time for ESPN on athletes who are still living. How strange is that?

I enjoy these and I’ve done pieces on George Steinbrenner, Yogi Berra, John Wooden and Stan Musial. They’re difficult in the sense that one of the restrictions was that I’m not supposed to talk to anybody about them. I couldn’t call up somebody and say, “Hey I’m doing Yogi Berra’s obituary. Tell me about Yogi.”

Describe the final scene of your life as if it were a horse race.

He turned for home in front by two, but began to fade. By the eighth pole he was looking for the exits. By the sixteenth pole he was wondering how the hell he got there in the first place. By the finish line he was ready to close his eyes and say goodbye.

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June 2016

EDUCATION

Community Building

A New Career Resource Center at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota County Supports Great Futures

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

The Boys & Girls Club has a clear mission — help young people reach their full potential and become pro-

careers are skilled vocational jobs — HVAC, and plumbing, for instance.

ductive, responsible, and caring citizens. Perhaps more

After the last Florida housing bust, many of the build-

than ever, young people need a safe place to learn and

ing tradesmen left the area. An astonishingly high number

grow. They need opportunities to create relationships

also chose to retire or will retire soon. That left a void that

with adult professionals who genuinely care. They need

builders are having to deal with now that they’re up and

hope, opportunity, and support. And that’s reason enough

building again. Enter the big opportunity for young people

to shine the spotlight of this column on the Boys & Girls

that pays well and creates a future many would choose if

Clubs of Sarasota County this month. For more than 46

they simply knew the lifestyle that came with these jobs.

years, they’ve been making a difference in our community.

“We want to remove the stigma around technical work,”

Witness the thousands of children and youth aged 6-18

says Auxier. He’s quick to point out that while so many

who receive afterschool care and/or participate in summer

other industries are being outsourced or automated, that’s

programs throughout the county each year.

not going to happen to the trades. “Robots fixing your AC

But they’re prepared to take a new step in getting

or rewiring your house? That’s not going to happen any-

young people on track for future career success. Enter the

time soon.” The Career Resource Center will also provide

Tom and Debbie Shapiro Career Resource Center. It’s the

counseling and resources for college-bound youth.

first Boys & Girls Club Career Resource Center of its kind

Auxier believes so much in what the Boys & Girls Clubs

in the nation, says Director David Auxier, so it’s getting

are doing locally that he left a job he loved at USF to be

a lot of notice. He notes that one does exist in Memphis

part of it. “I used to work with 20-30 year olds to help them

that’s specifically focused on training 16 to 25 year olds

succeed in the workplace,” he says, “but it’s often like plas-

for the culinary world, but the one here targets those 13

tering over the cracks.” Now he’s able to make a profound

to 18 years old. “This is a demand-driven effort,” Auxier

difference with people in their formative teen years. As a

explains. “It’s a chance for us to step in and introduce them

former business owner, Auxier has built in an entrepreneur-

to careers that not everybody is thinking of, but are in high

ship component, so kids who end up working in the trades

demand in our community.” The majority of those possible

might one day be their own boss or independent contractor.

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“We want to paint the picture of progression to them — go

called “Women in the Changing World.” The goal of this

from being a technician to a mid-level career tradesman to

fundraiser is to generate $100,000 to support the Career

being owner and having a house on the Keys.”

Resource Center as well as share success stories from a va-

Along with vocational training and college preparation,

riety of backgrounds. “Participants on the panel will touch

area youths will also receive training in key life and career

on entrepreneurship, technology, and roles of women in

skills such as conflict resolution, time management, inter-

the 21st century,” says Jonna Keller, Boys & Girls Clubs

personal communication, and problem solving. They’re

of Sarasota County Board Chair Elect. The panel discus-

also prepared to succeed in interviews to help them land

sion, moderated by ABC 7 co-anchor Hayley Weilgus,

that post-high school job.

will feature such outstanding and inspirational women as

The Career Resource Center is not yet up and running

award-winning Inupiaq poet Joan Kane; Vice President of

— an existing building is being renovated right now and

Disney International and Campus Recruiting at the Disney

will need a few more months before the first cohort of 15

Company, Kristi Breen; and Elinor Steele, Vice President

to 20 teens enters the program. But once the template is in

of Global Communications and Women’s Initiatives for

place and it’s proven to be a success, it’s going to replicated

Tupperware brands. Boys & Girls Clubs of America Alum-

all over. “This place is going to be impressive,” says Auxier.

na and three-time Olympic Gold Triathlete, Gail Devers,

He’s worked with the Ringling College of Art + Design Col-

will also participate on the panel and share her personal

laboratory for help with the interior design. “It’s going to be

life-changing story.

a space kids LOVE to be in.”

“We serve over 4,000 youth each year,” says Bill Sad-

It’s clear that the project supporters and partners who

lo, President/CEO at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota

are making this building happen — Halfacre Construction

County. “As history will suggest, these children are more

Company, Gulf Coast Builders Xchange, CareerEdge, the

likely to stay trapped within the poverty cycle due to a

Trico Foundation, and the Shapiros, to name just a few —

lack of or limited access to critical resources, such as ed-

are going to be very happy with it too.

ucational opportunities and financial services. The Career

In addition to individual giving to sustain the Career Resource Center, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota

Resource Center will give them the opportunity to break out of the poverty cycle.”

County Women Ambassadors — which supports the work

For more information on the Boys & Girls Clubs of

of five Boys & Girls Clubs and 4 school sites in Sarasota

Sarasota County, please visit www.bgcsarasota.com or call

County — is holding a panel discussion on October 7th

941.366.3911.

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Buzz

The

Around Town

L

ately, home and family has been top of mind for me.

You loyal buzz readers might remember my ‘big reveal’ in my April column – I got engaged! Well, those of you who know me personally know that patience is not one of my virtues especially when I am excited about something. My engagement proved to be no different. We were married by the end of April! My gift to myself was to keep this love very private, which was quite a task in our social media-fueled share-all culture! I’m pleased to say we succeeded. A perfectly personal, small gathering overlooking Lido Beach set the stage for our children and family to join us as we exchanged vows and rings. It was exactly as I hoped…all about the love and not a production.

I think at my age, it’s the pure act of commitment that I value the most. While I enjoy a party as much (or more!) than most, it would have taken away from the awe I feel to have found this love at this point in my life.

So now comes the hard work. Merging two families and two households is not a task for the weak. My brain feels rattled and my body exhausted. The estate sale has passed and we have donated a truckload of furniture and housewares to our friends at Goodwill Manasota. Yet still our oversized garage is packed as we begin remodeling to personalize our new home for our big family’s tastes and needs.

The old saying, “Change is the only constant,” rings true. This issue of SCENE highlights local real estate and its related sectors. Happenings in home and hearth, whether it is a marriage, a baby, a college-bound teenager, job, retirement or lifestyle changes, all affect where and how we live. It’s important to take advantage of the many resources we have in our community to help us navigate the sea of constant change called life. Thankfully, in the real estate sector, we are blessed with lots of talented people right here in our own backyard.

By Suzette Jones

REALTORS I asked a few realtors who have experienced some real changes in their own situations to give me insight as to what motivates their clients’ new home hunts.

Luxury residential specialists, Andrew Vac and Daniel Matusiak, are experiencing life changes affecting both their clients and themselves. Just this year, these two real estate powerhouses joined forces to create Matusiak/ Vac Real Estate Group under the brokerage firm Action Realty. Both men worked with ReMax for many years.

Throughout their friendship as colleagues in the industry, they learned they had a similar mindset, business approach and entrepreneurial spirit. Creating their partnership was a natural progression. Their next change will occur later this year as they merge their individual offices into a central location in downtown Sarasota. When I asked Andrew what trends steer our real estate market, he quickly fired off what he calls the main four motivators: Death, Health, Divorce and Financial Ruin. According to Andrew, “While the investing and upsizing clients are nice, these four life changes are absolutely, without a doubt, market motivators.

They always cause real estate activity.” He used a client of over 20 years as an example. Over the years, Andrew has helped a retired physician and his wife find their first house, multiple investment properties, a downtown condo and more. Now, the doctor needs Andrew’s real estate assistance as he deals with the death of his wife and his own declining health, which has left him wheelchair bound.

The three-story, waterfront home the couple loved in their prime is no longer accommodating. A different set-up will offer the quality of life he needs now.

Realtor Sonya Kiss, recently made a change of her own with the decision to move her license under the WinTech Real Estate Services banner. According to Sonya, the June 2016

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new company is on the forefront of real estate industry trends leveraging experience with the latest technology. Their goal is to bring the real estate market into the 21st century. It seems that Sonya is already experiencing a bit of this technical boost with some of her clients. She is amazed at the number of “vacationers” who have found her by visiting open houses during their stay.

Many have made site unseen purchases after their vacations are over via Skype and texted pictures of properties. This virtual buying seems to be a result of their desire to maintain a bit of their holiday and make the changes necessary to balance life and stress.

The Coldwell Banker team of Dyrk Dahl and Gwen Kruse had a wonderful “vacationer” experience with a couple who retired to Fort Myers after passing off the daily operations of running their multiple restaurants in Pennsylvania to their children.

While visiting some friends in Lakewood Ranch, this couple decided to find a getaway condo in the area while maintaining their big home in Fort Myers. The culture and beauty of Sarasota amazed them and they were lured by our many amenities. In the end, they switched gears when they found the perfect on Golden Gate Point in one of only eight residences in the newly completed 5-story glass masterpiece developed by VanDyk, One88 Residences. This now-formerly Fort Myers-based couple went from looking for a $350,000 vacation condo to a multimillion dollar permanent residence that overlooks the bay. With a direct access elevator and panoramic sliding glass windows spanning the width of their suite, they are close to everything they have come to want in Sarasota, yet retain their privacy when inside their home in the sky.

BUILDERS

Now Offering Vegas Style Games!

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Changes in population trends and urban growth have a huge impact on where builders are targeting. Our region seems to be constantly in a state of flux as we attract newly retired folks, growing families and people looking for a certain quality of life.

There’s much buzz around town about many of these projects popping up around us. The “why’” is what I find interesting.

Why is the builder is building in a specific location? What demand is driving it?

Urban living is alive and well - and in huge demand - in downtown Sarasota. With the VUE Sarasota Bay, One Palm, Sansara and more, these developers and builders are giving locals exactly what they want - no maintenance homes, lots of services and amenities with shops, restaurants, entertainment and water all within walking distance. While lots of locals are worrying about the increased traffic, I’m of the thinking that the more people live in downtown, the fewer cars it will take to bring them here from the suburbs. High density and live/work neighborhoods actually increase foot traffic and decrease autos. But then again, I like my extremes. Give me a thriving city one day and a remote ranch or beach on another and all my moods are satisfied.

One of my favorite landlords who continually fights to provide homes for people in a very specific market niche is Harvey Vengroff, who has single-handedly helped thousands of students, young professionals and new families find housing

they can afford in this very expensive city. Harvey’s passion and bluntness made recent headlines when he walked out of a city planning meeting when he believed the commission seemed to be doing everything possible to make building workforce housing near downtown impossible. My hat is off to Harvey, and every builder who fights the good fight to get something done – and call out hypocrisy – with our public officials. It always amazes me when builders and developers in our region are given a bad rap. These folks are some of the hardest working business owners I know. They have the vision and the stamina to keep our economy flowing. They are among some of our most successful small business, delivering top-notch client satisfaction. OK… enough of my soapbox.

Speaking of giving your customers what they want, some builders have made a name for themselves by providing a very specialized product. Take Steve Ellis and Grant Castillow, co-founders of My Green Buildings, which is now known as MGB Home Builders. I first met Steve right after he formed My Green Buildings in 2006. With a lifetime of building experience absorbed from growing up in the construction industry, Steve decided he could improve the home building experience and provide a sustainable LEED product in answer to a new trend he was observing: Green Living. While sustainability remains an overriding principle of their construction methods, the name “MGB Built” was chosen to better represent the quality, strength and experience these unique builders provide.

There’s also a demand for living close to nature. South Sarasota County is becoming a booming area for its incredible opportunities to experience true Florida. I counted fifteen official preserves listed on the srqecoseeker.com website. Dozens of trails, waterways and bird sanctuaries wind their way through these preserved lands. My late cousin, Stewart Udall, Secretary of Interior under President Kennedy, was famous for his quotes on nature. He said, ‘”Plans to protect air and water, wilderness and wildlife are in fact plans to protect man.” Regarding preservation, he said that “...parklands have a major role in providing superlative opportunities for outdoor recreation, but they have other “people serving” values, too.” Smart builders know this. There is a positive economic impact to ecological efforts. It is a draw. People are inspired by nature. Living near preserved land is a huge attraction that can influence property values in an enviable way. Within a very small radius, Bay Street

by D.H. Horton, Edgewater at Hidden Bay, Ryland Homes’ Palms at Casey Key and Bayside by Taylor Morrison are examples of projects that are popping up for folks who find value in another Udall quote, “Cherish sunsets, wild creatures and wild places.

Have a love affair with the wonder and beauty of the earth.”

I give sincere thanks to wise developers, elected officials and organizations like Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast.

They are influencing our future by overcoming small-minded arguments while saving our rich natural bounty of land and waters. They know that the outcomes of their efforts parallel those in my home state. After all, “There’s not a single person in Arizona today who would say the Grand Canyon was a mistake,” was another well-said quote from my cousin.

HOMES Realtors find the properties to facilitate our life changes; builders and developers plan the big picture. But it’s the contractor, architect, designer, retailer and artisan who jump into the nitty-gritty of personalizing our homes.

Tom and Geri Chaffee have led a constantly changing, renaissance lifestyle. After a music industry career performing with many of rock’s finest, a second career bubbled up in the entrepreneurial tech world when he founded ePublishing.com.

He currently multi-tasks with consulting, investing, speaking and advising as one of Fortune Magazine’s featured “Insiders” while Geri’s marketing company gave her experience in a wide variety of skills she uses to manage their real estate holdings and adventurous family. They have taught their children to find their respective genius by experiencing all that life has to offer. From home schooling, to jumping in the RV for a nationwide tour, the Chaffee’s are a family team that takes advantage of opportunities.

So, when the opportunity came for the children to attend Pine View in Osprey, the family relocated to this quiet town in order to avoid the long commute from Lido Beach. At first, the old house they found on the water was seen as temporary. Then they fell in love with the slower pace and surrounding nature. And so began a multi-phase renovation that has brought together a local team of specialists and landed the family on national TV. Lucas Congdon’s company, Lucas Lagoons, was one of many pool companies that the Chaffee’s interviewed to remodel their pool area. Born into a family of Vermont landscapers and stonemasons, Lucas has been cutting and crafting stone since the age of 14 when his creative talents and love for outdoor design quickly surfaced. Now based in Sarasota, Lucas built a company that produces incredible, state-of-the-art, custom projects. Some of these captured the attention of network television where he is now the star of Animal Planet’s hit series, Insane Pools: Off the Deep End. Lucas and the Chaffee family clicked immediately. With a team of characters that include people with the nicknames “Woman”, “Crash”, “Old Man” and “Sunshine’”, it’s no wonder Lucas’ show is in its second season with a rabid fan base! To call the Chaffee’s new pool a remodel would be a gargantuan understatement. Lucas’ company started with a dated, caged rectangle of water from which they created a bird sanctuary with multi-leveled infinity water edges and a stage for impromptu musical performances by Tom and his musician friends. You can see the transformation documented on the episode entitled “For the Birds.”

Another resource was Celeste Gruenstein, who left a successful career as an international trade attorney to jump into the entrepreneurial world. By using her established relationships in China and whip-smart mind, Celeste has built a company with a mission to reclaim, restore and repurpose. Decor Direct Wholesale Warehouse has been supplying innovative and sustainable home furnishings to the design trade and general public since 1998. Animal Planet was so impressed by Celeste and her company, they contracted her to be a regular on their hit show Insane Pools. The Bradenton-based facility boasts three structures, numerous outdoor spaces and a team that exudes June 2016

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enthusiasm and love for what they do. Celeste’s company provided the one-of-a-kind table that anchors the Chaffee’s outdoor dining hub. It is crafted from a mammoth wooden slab with natural curves and markings. All of Decor Direct’s items are sustainable, reclaimed, antiqued or crafted.

Architect Jonathan Parks of Solstice Architects led the “big picture” by designing the phases needed to accommodate the Chaffee’s changes. From hotels to parking garages, concept designs to family homes, Jonathan has a real knack for understanding the owner’s desires and solving challenges, while embracing the existing site’s natural strengths. The firm has done work all over the world, but it seems that Jonathan has been kept very busy of late on our Gulf Coast as he helps individuals create the vision they have for their changing lifestyle.

On the other end of the spectrum, even a do-it-yourselfer like me needs valuable resource connections to accommodate the vision I have that will welcome old and new into my family changes. I’m deeply sentimental and my rule for possessions is that I only keep the things that have a story. These pieces are what I bring to every home I’ve owned. The leather sectional that used to host my seventy-two first cousins in my grandparent’s basement and my grandmother’s enameled Asian urns that I brought home from Chevy Chase, Maryland after her funeral have ancestral history. Other pieces, like the Biedermeier dining table and French Deco chairs I bought after my first real entrepreneurial success have a story that started with me. It is important to me to find ways to honor both sides of our new family. Finding a team that could help me do just that has been amazing.

Rocker turned custom furniture designer Mark Nodeen of 390 Designs understood my request immediately. I wanted to take some functional pieces I had and use them to transform our new family room into a space that celebrates my new husband’s past. With a nod to Alan’s college sports career, Mark is using wood from a reclaimed basketball court to wrap the tops and sides of the cabinets to create built-ins that are perfect for our combined family. Mark will also build us a large tree swing so I can use the custom, outdoor cushions that my talented friend Laurie Jenkins created with her company Laurie Bell Fabrics years ago. They will put a bit of my style into the massive jungle paradise that my husband has cultivated over the years. With their patented BellBloc liner, these upholstered pieces have the look and feel of indoor luxury, but resist the pests, mold and mildew brought on by our environment. Now, if she could only use her chemistry background to help the cushions keep the mosquitos away too, I would be in heaven!

Mark and Laurie helped me bring a bit of me into Alan’s existing home but I also had to find a source to help with the difficult task of getting rid of items that were of value, but did not work in the new space. I went to Crissy Galleries’ mother/ son duo - Carol and Bruce. They have worked together for nearly fifty years ever since Bruce was a wee chap of eight-years-old.

The respect they have for one another is palpable. Bruce says, “You’ve got to get the right pieces to the right people or the results are devastating.” They call themselves an “informative resource” and that is exactly what they were for me. Using their market

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knowledge, they helped me decide how to move the pieces that I was ready to sell. They clearly know their business. “It has to be fun for us,” says Bruce. “Items we purchase reflect our tastes and interests, which our clients also share.” They have found another person who shares their tastes - me! I can’t decide which I like more, the rare Tiffany Spring Peony Lamp or the vaulted sapphire and diamond necklace that matches my new wedding ring! I have already referred them to my BFF who’s children do not have the space nor desire to house the many collectables that she and her late husband accumulated over the years. The Crissys will be able to direct her to the right professionals so the results are not what Bruce calls “devastating.” With people feeling a bit more secure financially than they were ten years ago, Bruce has resurrected his famous multi-day auction. The first one since the financial crash was held in March at the Sarasota Auditorium.

Over 200 buyers were on hand, while his technology partner of over 40 years connected the auction to buyers from around the world. Watch for the next event in November. Maybe that lamp and necklace I love will make an appearance!

As you see, it takes a village to accommodate the many changes in life that we all experience. Lucky for us, our little village boasts a plethora of experts, talent and resources to help us create or find exactly what we need.

SPECIAL REPORT Junior Buzzer: Anais Blake reports on Designing Daughter’s Annual Gala As season winds down, one of the last few galas stood out as one of the hottest of them all - Designing Daughter’s Havana Nights. The Designing Daughters are a fantastic group of philanthropic young women who raise money each year in support of local charities. Chaired by Ashley Markley, Kelsey Alholm, Lauren Graham and Meghan Buchanan and held at Servandos, everyone was “Havana” great time with all the nonstop action that included Cuban cigar rolling, live painters, card tables and several pig roasts. Amongst the whirlwind of excitement, I spotted some definite fashion standouts: Camilyn Beth, owner of Camilyn Beth Studio, who wore a gorgeous dress of her own design (If you haven’t checked out her fabulous showroom on Palm Avenue, it’s is a must-see), and Charlotte Marin, who last year started her luxury swimsuit line, Floridita Swimwear, and looked ready for the beach in her Havana-inspired outfit. Also spotted among the partygoers were mothers-to-be Montana Ross Taplinger and Katie Biter. The gala raised over $50,000, which will be awarded to deserving charities by yearend. Can’t wait to see what they come up with for next season!

Congratulations girls!

Until next month, tell me your ‘buzz”. As I’ve said before, I could tell a story a day about all that is happening in our area.

Connecting the dots and sharing these stories with others is one of my favorite things. Cheers!

Suzette Jones is CEO and Founder of The Economic Buzz, a company focused on economic development and innovation. (theeconomicbuzz.com | sj@theeconomicbuzz.com)

Literary Scene

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

The Late Matthew Brown

Once upon a time, I was a graduate student studying writing at Florida State University. One of my classmates there was Paul Ketzle. I’ve been waiting for him to publish a book and now — 15+ years later, The Late Matthew Brown has arrived. This book is a lesson for those young authors who rush to publication.

A little patience and working on one’s craft can pay off. By that, I mean that The Late Matthew Brown is a fine, fine book.

Here’s the story. Matthew Brown is a rising political star in the South, but here’s the problem — he’s a total fraud. And he knows it. The political Powers That Be have their eyes on pushing him into higher political offices. But things worsen when a large-scale investigation threatens to swallow up Brown in its path. In the middle of this life maelstrom arrives Hero, the 12-year-old daughter Matthew never knew existed.

This book does not zip and zing like a front-of-the-store Barnes & Noble thriller. Nor should it. The build is luxurious and careful and more than a little Flannery O’Connor-esque.

Surely the ten years Ketzle lived in Tallahassee informed this book and gave him first-hand experience to create this level of authenticity of the South, but he adds “I wanted this satire to implicate a broader culture than just of one government, so I ended up taking bits and pieces from many different Southern states to capture a broader truth.” Certainly one aspect of the truth this book captures is how the South attempts to bury a past that refuses to go away.

Give The Late Matthew Brown a chance. In this turbulent political time full of Trumptastic fun, you might get a real kick out of Ketzle’s debut book. (And don’t worry. Ketzle’s next book — about the American Civil War — is well underway and he’s promising it won’t take anywhere near as long to arrive as this one did.)

Rating: For more information about The Late Matthew Brown (Apprentice House, softcover, 350 pages, $18.99) or the author, please visit www.paulketzle.com June 2016

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Lassoing the Sun: A Year in America’s National Parks I admit it — I not-so-covertly like national parks. And I yearn to read well-written memoirs. So when this book came across my desk, I was game even without knowing that the author, Mark Woods, was a Florida resident (he’s the Metro Columnist for the Florida Times-Union in Jacksonville).

On the eve of turning fifty and feeling more than a little burned out, Woods applied for and received a Eugene C. Pulliam Fellowship, a $75,000 award given to a US writer who wants to spend one year in America’s national parks with the goal of looking ahead to the centennial and beyond. His plan was to take his mother to a park she’d never been to, along with his wife and young daughter, with the intention of recreating some of his own childhood family trips.

Then his mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer and the trip — and this book — became much more than just a reconnection with nature. In many ways, this book is a love letter to family, national parks, and America. It’s a fresh way of seeing the world anew.

The book is beautifully written and it sneaks in plenty of history lessons in way that feels relevant and satisfying. It’s hard to put down.

Woods has done a remarkable thing here. Highly recommended.

Rating: For more information about Lassoing the Sun (Thomas Dunne Books, hardcover, 320 pages, $26.99) or the author, please visit www.jacksonville.com/user/mark-woods

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novel details the life of 16-year-old

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Joshua Allen who suffers from Trisomy XXI, or Down’s Syndrome. When an accident puts him into a coma, a mys-

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terious injection revives him...and gives him supernatural powers. A string of bi-

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zarre deaths leaves Allen as the prime suspect. Worse, an alien has landed on earth and is hot on Allen’s tail, killing

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anyone in its path.

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This story takes on religion (the boy’s

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dad believes his son is a messenger of God), medical science, and plenty of

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other issues as it speeds along to its lifeand-death conclusion. If you’re interested in fast-paced horror, Minton’s nov-

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el might just be the scare you’ve been

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waiting for.

Rating: For more information about Trisomy XXI (World Castle Publishing, softcover, 318 pages, $13.99) or the author, please visit www.facebook.com/GAMinton/

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June 2016

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87

HEALTH

What’s Hot in Plastic Surgery

By Scott J. Engel, MD

Today, you simply cannot open any trendy magazine, turn on the TV, or browse the internet without coming across the subject of plastic surgery. While mainstream media often paves the way for the current trends, you do not have to travel to Beverly Hills or Manhattan to receive the hottest plastic surgery procedures. Here in Sarasota, Florida all of the newest procedures are right at your fingertips (or lips, or breasts, or buttock).

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Breast Implants and Breast Rejuvenation – Several types of silicone implants are now available,

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including the more cohesive “Gummy Bear” implants. These implants are tear drop, or anatomic,

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which create a more natural appearance. Most recently, the Allergan Inspira® implant was introduced,

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which has a fuller appearance, with less chance of rippling. In my practice, I use an overwhelming

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majority of some type of silicone implant. In fact, many women are changing their old saline implants

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for silicone. Techniques continue to improve in breast lifts, which can often be performed with smaller scars, or the use of absorbable meshes for longer lasting support.

Fat Grafting – Fat grafting techniques have advanced, where fat is removed from one area of a patient’s body and moved to other areas to improve volume. I perform fat grafting for facial rejuvenation, hand rejuvenation, breast augmentation, and Brazilian Buttock Lifts. In this procedure, a fuller buttock can be obtained without the use of an implant.

Labiaplasty – This procedure has become much more popular, as women are frequently requesting a labiaplasty to re-contour or reduce the size of enlarged labia minora. This condition can cause difficulty with hygiene, irritation, and discomfort with activities such as biking, jogging, sexual intercourse, or lack of intimate self confidence. This simple outpatient procedure can correct these concerns with little downtime.

Sculpsure™ – This brand new FDA approved non-invasive fat reduction machine is now available at Sarasota Plastic Surgery Center. We are delighted to offer this revolutionary laser procedure that will melt fat in 25 minutes with no downtime. The results are remarkable and usually seen around 6-12 weeks. It is perfect for someone with stubborn areas of fat who does not want liposuction.

Facelifts/Mini-facelifts – Facial rejuvenation continues to improve as our understanding of the aging process becomes more clear. Incisions can be tailored to each patient’s hairstyle and concerns to achieve a natural youthful look, with shorter downtimes.

Body Contouring/Liposuction – Intensive weight loss programs, exercise routines, and bariatric surgeries are producing an increase in body contouring procedures, such as tummy tucks and liposuction. Techniques have evolved to hide scars and sculpt the body back to a youthful form. Arm lifts have increased considerably especially in warm climates like Sarasota.

Injectables – A wide variety of options for nonsurgical wrinkle reduction exist. We continue to use Botox®/Dysport® and Juvederm®/Restylane® routinely. New to the market is Kybella®, an injection to melt fat under the chin without liposuction.

In recent years, I am amazed at the advances that we have made in plastic surgery which enable my partners and me to offer a wider range of possibilities to our patients in their quest for youthfulness than ever before.

As always, do your homework and make sure you are consulting with a surgeon board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. With all of these incredible advances, appropriate training and experience is paramount for safe, effective, and natural results.

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June 2016

HEALTH

Preventing Hearing Loss

By Andrew Marlowe, M.D. As a modern doctor, it’s my job to prevent disease as much as possible. When it comes to the subject of hearing loss, doctors have traditionally focused on avoiding harmful noise exposure.

However, new studies show it’s also important to preserve brain hearing.

Brain hearing is a term that recognizes the ear is only one part of the hearing system. Research Andrew Marlowe, M.D. Marlowe & Marrs

shows the brain plays a major role in hearing and that all sound processing (making sense of sound) occurs in the brain rather than the ear.

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It is also well recognized that it begins to alter the brain as the ear declines. When the ear

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function ultimately suffers.

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The longer this continues the worse it gets and the harder it becomes to correct. In a 25-year study published last year in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, it was reported that untreated hearing loss was linked to cognitive decline.

This same study also reported that treating hearing loss with hearing devices resulted in less decline. Stimulation from improved communication with others is likely the main cause for the reduction. In fact, correcting hearing loss has definitively shown in multiple studies to improve mood, social interaction and cognitive ability.

As a result of this information, I have two recommendations. The first is to correct hearing loss as soon as it you notice it. The first sign you have a hearing problem is most often difficulty hearing in a setting with background noise. The longer you have the loss, the more difficult the rehabilitation process will be.

When it comes to the brain, it is much better to preserve function than to lose it and try to get it back. Identifying and treating hearing loss early is the best thing you can do to preserve your hearing and brain health.

My second recommendation is to see a physician who specializes in hearing for a thorough evaluation and discussion of your options. There is no one more qualified to guide you in selecting the right choice.

There are numerous options available today, including technology specifically designed to focus on the brain and its role in hearing. But hearing devices only help if they are actually used. I always say, “the most expensive hearing aid is the one you bought but don’t wear.”

Adults wait an average of seven years before they seek help for their hearing loss. Don’t put off hearing correction to the last possible moment. It’s one of the worst things you can do for your health and well-being.

June 2016

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89

REWIND A LOOK BACK THROUGH SCENE’S ARCHIVES

1985

WHO DOESN’T LIKE A BLOCK PARTY ESPECIALLY WHEN ITS IN ONE OF OUR MOST BEAUTIFUL NEIGHBORHOODS? CHAIRING THIS FUN PARTY WAS JOAN GEYER, WHO, ALONG WITH HER HUSBAND BOB, ARE STILL GIVING BACK TO OUR COMMUNITY THROUGH THEIR SUPPORT OF MANY LOCAL NONPROFITS.

Harbor Acres Block Party Everyone was kicking up their heels and having a good time recently at the Harbor Acres Block Party.

The live jazz band set the party mood and there was even a mime on hand for all to enjoy. The annual event gives the residents of Harbor Acres a chance to get together with their neighbors, old and new alike. Mrs. Robert Geyer was chairperson for the event.

Helping themselves to the goodies starting with the top left photo from left to right are Doug Case, Jack Cannon, Brenda Cannon and Bob Geyer. Mrs. Robert Geyer, chairperson, center photo. The bottom left photo shows Mrs. & Mrs. Carl Wise, with their daughters Whitney, Courtney and Erika, arriving at the party.

Mr. Wise is president of the Harbor Acres Association.

Megan Foley listens to a tune played by trombonist Andy Wright in the bottom right photo. Mr. Wright was Megan’s father’s high school music teacher.

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June 2016

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