SCENE SARASOTA | MANATEE
M AGA ZIN E
Do You Know Your
Financial DNA?
Wealth & Retirement The Fascinating Steve Wilberding Steven Lee’s Money Plan Evolucia’s Progress Capital Ideas
Rick Helbing
SUNCOAST ADVISORY GROUP
MARCH 2014 $3.95 U.S.
spacious
floorplans
Based on the popular Murano plan, which swept every category in this year’s Parade of Homes, The Verona has new features to appeal to this market segment and to blend the living areas together with larger open spaces. The Verona will feature disappearing corners and large sliding glass doors to bring the outdoor spaces in, and enhance the Florida lifestyle and year round entertaining. The single story Verona model will be 3,600 square feet with three bedrooms and four bathrooms, plus a den, bonus room, and a Florida basement. The expansive open floorplan will also include a large outdoor dining and living area with a tropical island pool. CGC018525
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by the national homebuilders association & builder magazine
construction
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Featured at The Concession the verona
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visit the concession real estate sales office for your private tour of the verona by lee wetherington homes
7700 Lindrick Lane | Sarasota, FL 34202 | (941) 388-0501 Monday - Saturday, 10am - 5pm | Sunday Noon - 5pm | Tuesday by Appointment
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LAKEWOOD RANCH
Manor & Estate Homes from the $300s-$600s+ Up to 6 bedrooms and 4.5 baths with 2,244-3,800+ sq. ft. 13112 Bridgeport Crossing, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211 Open Mon.-Sat. 9am - 6pm, Sun. 10am - 6pm
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Nexia home automation package • upgraded wood cabinets • window coverings • glass front doors granite countertops • stainless steel appliances • diagonal floor tile • crown molding rounded corners • tray ceilings (per plan) • marble windowsills • paver driveway and lanai
13112 Bridgeport Crossing, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211 • Open Mon.-Sat. 9am - 6pm, Sun. 10am - 6pm Stated square footages are approximate and should not be used as representation of the home’s precise or actual size. Prices subject to change. Copyright © 2014 Lennar Corporation. Lennar, the Lennar logo and Everything’s Included Home are registered service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. CGC 1507191. 2/14
INTRODUCING AN EXCEPTIONAL NOT-FOR-PROFIT CARE FACILITY...
Whether you need Skilled Nursing care or you need to “Bounce Back” after a major illness or trauma, the unique, not-for-profit facility that is Hawthorne Village of Sarasota has high quality healthcare and a full range of rehabilitative therapies.
MEDICAL CARE & SUPERVISION
SPECIALIZED REHABILITIATION SERVICES
• With its 120-bed Skilled Nursing facility, the amenities and services are exceptional • Personal Physician • 24-Hour Nurses • Highly-Trained Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapists • Registered Dietician and Nutritional Management • Social Services • Full-Time Activities Director
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CALL FOR YOUR PERSONAL TOUR 5381 Desoto Road | Sarasota, FL 34235 | 941.355.6111 | www.hawthornevillageofsarasota.com License # SNF130471051
EOE
Wealth & Retirement March 2014
Volume 57 No. 3
82
64
64 WHAT DRIVES YOUR FINANCIAL DECISION-MAKING? Financial advisor Rick Helbing of Suncoast Advisory Group By Sue Cullen
70 THE MAGIC BEHIND THE LIGHT How One Company is Bringing a Technology "Evolucion" to Sarasota
70
By Jacqueline Miller
74 A CAPITAL IDEA By Sue Cullen
79 CHARTING A COURSE FOR YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE The Money Plan by Steven J. Lee By Jake Harvigsen
82 CAFÉ L'EUROPE The Best of the Old and New By Steven J. Smith
COVER
Cover photo of Rick Helbing of Suncoast Advisory Group by Herb Booth/Booth Studios. Cover concept by SCENE Magazine.
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Stuart J. Roth Founder and President
Salt & Light Productions is the award winning non-profit organization dedicated to providing multi-media program services to charities across the nation.
Salt & Light Radio WITH
Stuart J. Roth
Saturdays at Noon
WSRQ
1220 AM/106.9 FM
Salt & Light Radio with Stuart J. Roth shares compelling testimonies from people in our community who inspire us to greatness and action. We strive to address many of the social, economic and spiritual issues confronting families and individuals in life’s most challenging situations. Our radio program reflects the same commitment to public service that has been exemplified by our video program services at Salt & Light Productions.
Our mission is to serve others and be a source of inspiration and encouragement to those less fortunate. We remain cognizant that “to whom much is given, much is required.”
7357 Merchant Court • Sarasota, FL 34240 • Phone 941.487.4061 • Fax 941.487.4062
www.saltandlightproductions.org
DEPARTMENTS
56
SOCIALS 26 Sarasota Opera Gala 44 Van Wezel Foundation Gala 58 SCBB's Red Hot! Event 120 Circus Arts Conservatory Gala
28 EVENTS CALENDAR 41 PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR 46 CULTURE MATTERS Cultural events presented by The Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County
52 GALLERY SCENE Upcoming Art Exhibitions
56 YARA’S WAY Recipes, Travel and Lifestyle Tips
56
By Yara Shoemaker
86 SCENES FROM AN INTERVIEW Steve Wilberding By Gus Mollasis
GIVING 94 STEMsmart: Bringing Learning to Life By Jake Hartvigsen
96 Sheri Greenhaus: Honoring Those Who Serve By Jake Hartvigsen
98 Titus Herman: A Vision for the Future By Jake Hartvigsen
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EDUCATION MATTERS 101 The Mother's Circle Outreach Program at The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee By Ryan G. Van Cleave
104 BEHIND THE SCENE Sarasota’s Society Maven Gives the Latest Scoop By Debbi Benedict
HEALTH MATTERS 112 Oh! My Aching Legs! By Dr. Martin Aldrich, M.D., F.A.C.C.
114 There Is Magic In Your Smile
118 LITERARY SCENE By Ryan G. Van Cleave
By Dr. Christine Koval, DMD
122 SCENE LOCALLY
116 FMS And Your Workout – Exclusive Insight From a Fitness Insider
News Shaping Our Community
By Tiffany Liashek
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FROM THE EDITOR
brilliant location sparkling views lustrous amenities...
T
he impending retirement of the post World War II baby boom population has resulted in a major need for assistance in
managing resources, both to supplement the cost of living and extend retirement assets as long as possible. This need has created an explosion of expertise, tools and innovative products by banks and wealth management firms. With lots of advice out there, finding the right mix and best people to guide you can be a challenge. When you consider
that we are also living longer than ever before, having enough to live on in our golden years is daunting for many of us. Whatever your situation is, perhaps you will find something inspiring in this issue or learn ways to help navigate you toward a more secure retirement. It is my duty to advise you that we are not endorsing anyone or any business in this issue and that you should consult an attorney and/or a qualified financial advisor prior to any business opportunity or entering into an investment that is mentioned in this issue. We are also not rendering legal or financial advice by featuring any of the articles contained in this issue. With that out of the way, let’s start with our cover story. Financial advisor Rick Helbing of Suncoast Advisory Group uses Behavior DNA to understand his clients, citing that even the best financial planning can get derailed by our natural behavior. By understanding his client’s behavior DNA, Helbing believes he can better craft a plan that suits their needs and stay the course. Sounds interesting to say the least. Casey Key resident Steven Lee, a venture capital pioneer, reveals his plan for financial success in his book, The Money Plan. Despite a career associated with risk, Lee believes in a few adherent principles of money management and wealth accumulation. SCENE contributing writer Jake Hartvigsen sat down with this financial wiz and gives us the scoop. Do you want to be wowed? Then read Gus Mollasis’ “Scenes from an Interview” about Steve Wilberding. From his service in the 101st Airborne Division in South Vietnam during which he was awarded medals for valor, to a thirty year international investment banking career, to managing the Saudi Arabian government’s $150 billion of reserves, his story sounds like fiction, but it is oh so real. Sarasotan Chris Cogan, along with veteran financiers Russell Vernon and Ross Barnett, have launched an initiative called Seven Holdings to bring much-needed venture capital to our area. The company just launched its first fund with $13 million in committed capital and a target of $50 to $70 million. Fueled by high marks for the U.S. Department of Energy and a new patent, be sure to read about Sarasota-based Evolucia, whose LED light fixtures radiate over the Ringling Bridge and other prominent structures and facilities. So no matter how you roll the dice, from all of us at SCENE, we hope your golden years are fruitful and most of all, that they are filled with much love, happiness and good health. And don’t forget to read our giving profiles in this issue. Giving is not only an important part of a well-rounded retirement plan; it’s good for the soul. Prices & features subject to change without notice. Offer void where prohibited by law. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE.
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The Best Heart Care Pumped Up Sarasota Memorial’s cardiac care is exemplary; world-class, in fact. From robotic cardiac surgery in the iSuites to TAVR in the Hybrid OR, our cardiac specialists, in affiliation with Columbia University, provide the area’s best heart care. Now in our new Courtyard Tower, two state-of-the-art cardiac floors feature private, healing rooms equipped with advanced technology for all types of heart patients and their care teams. How do you improve upon the best care? We do it with an enhanced patient experience that promotes faster recoveries. If there’s a level up from best, we think this is it.
smh.com/heart
Hans Weigand:
Neue Vienna Art March 7 - 16, 2014
LOCALLY OWNED, OPERATED & PRINTED FOR MORE THAN 57 YEARS CEO/Publisher
Ronald Milton
Executive Editor
Julie A. Milton
Business Development
Salena Wilhoit
Account Executive Tammy Whalen Art Director Editorial Assistant Special Issue Director Distribution Contributing Writers
Michelle Cross Cheryl Galbraith Debbi Benedict Dick Jackson Debbi Benedict Sue Cullen Jake Hartvigsen
Direct from Vienna, Austria, the large-scale, mixed-media paintings of Hans Weigand bring a wild, other-worldly beauty to Sarasota. For four decades, Hans’ alter-ego, the Silver Surfer, a symbol of the trickster, has delighted Europeans with art that blends pop and neo-expressionism with wry humor. Don’t miss it.
Gus Mollasis Yara Shoemaker Steven J. Smith Ryan G. Van Cleave Photographers Herb Booth Jake Hartvigsen Cliff Roles Address
Sponsored by
Sarasota, FL 34241
Produced by:
Phone
Vienna & Naples
7269 Bee Ridge Road,
941-365-1119
Fax 941-954-5067 Website www.scenesarasota.com SCENE Magazine publishes 12 issues a year by RJM Ventures, LLC. Address editorial, advertising and circulation correspondence to the above address. Sufficient return postage and self-addressed, stamped envelope must accompany all manuscripts, art work and photographs submitted if they are to be returned or acknowledged. Publisher assumes no responsibility for care of return of unsolicited materials. Subscription price: $12.95 per year, $19.95 for two years. All contents copyrighted. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. ISSN 1535-8895.
1314 10th St. Sarasota, Florida 34236 www.icehouseon10th.com facebook.com/icehouseon10th
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Special Publications: Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County's Arts & Culture Guide, Doctors On The Scene, The Giving Book, Leading the Scene, Men On The Scene & Women On The Scene. scenesarasota.com
941.366.8100 • icardmerrill.com Manatee, Sarasota & Charlotte Counties
Discover What Makes Sarasota Bay Club So Different! Sarasota Bay Club offers outstanding services and amenities that are personalized to fit your lifestyle. From complimentary valet parking to fine dining on chef prepared meals, the freedom to design the ideal retirement lifestyle is all yours. Sarasota Bay Club ownership is carefree, with all maintenance included, and complete health care & rehabilitation services conveniently located on-site.
z
“We love the atmosphere and the talented staff at Sarasota Bay Club, which has drawn out a lot of talent in me. I am able to express myself more than ever before. We have been happy since the day we moved in!” Frank Levine Sarasota Bay Club Resident
Full-Service Retirement Living On Sarasota Bay Discover The Sarasota Bay Club Difference For Yourself Today!
Please Call To Attend Our Next Luncheon Event or Schedule A Personal Tour – Linda Ware or Dana Moe (941) 552-3284 Visit Us On The Web At www.SarasotaBayClub.com (941) 366-7667 • 1301 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34236
Family
is Life.
Enjoy it to the Fullest.
Laurel Oak
T H E PR E M I E R FA M I LY C O U N T RY C LU B
Member-owned since 1999, at Laurel Oak you will find very warm, welcoming, and friendly members. With abundant natural beauty teeming with wildlife, the Club’s many amenities include 36 holes of championship golf, 12 Har Tru tennis courts, a junior Olympic-size pool and a 45,000 sq ft clubhouse. Whether you play golf or tennis, or like to socialize, dine and party with friends in a warm and inviting environment, we have a membership plan for your lifestyle. In addition to our retired members, there are many young families at Laurel Oak, giving the Club a very energetic, highly participatory membership with many family-oriented events throughout the year. We invite you for a Club tour anytime or take advantage of our try-us-out membership, designed to allow you to experience Laurel Oak Country Club, with virtually all the privileges of a full member, before making the commitment to full membership. Call today for your personal tour. Enjoy family and life to the fullest at Laurel Oak.
Try-Us-Out this Season! 90 day Trial Memberships
Golf & Tennis $2,500 Tennis $800 Social $500
941-378-3399 2700 Gary Player Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34240 www.laureloak.com A Private Club
Plus Tax
Inviting. Inspired. Incomparable.
SOCIAL
Sarasota Opera Gala
Sarasota Opera recently held its annual Opera Gala at Hyatt Regency Sarasota chaired by Carol Brualdi. This year’s theme “A Masked Ball” was inspired by the Fall production of Die Fledermaus. Most guests arrived in elegant and creative masks. The evening included a four-course gourmet dinner, silent auction, live music from the 42nd Street Big Band, and a live performance by Sarasota Opera’s Principal Artists Marco Nistico, Chrystal Williams and Marcello Cormio.
Photos by
Cliff Roles
Per-Erik & Sandra Lindqvist, Elissa Soyka & Bud Borax
Les & Carol Brualdi
Richard & Cynthia Russell
Gerald & Beathe Elden
Cheryl MacLauchlan & Wendy Feinstein
t n u a l F our
e l k r Spa Y
MK Designs, Unique, Stunning and One of a Kind • MK Designs and The Golden Image Jewelry Store 30 South Palm Ave., Downtown Sarasota | 941.364.8439 | www.mymkdesigns.com
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CALENDAR
March Calendar For a complete listing of community events please visit scenesarasota.com
Photo of Richard Herzog’s “It’s all about electricity” by Cliff Roles. 2013/2014 Season of Sculpture.
8th Annual Sarasota SPRINGFEST March 1 Palmer Ranch, Clark Road and Sawyer Loop 7:30 am. Event starts off with 5K fun walk/run and a 12K road race, continues with great food, business expo, farmers market, and music by the Venturas. sarasotaspringfest.com
2nd Annual “The Mane Event” March 1 InStride Therapy under covered arena 6:00 pm. Start the evening off with cocktails & hors d’oeuvres followed by dinner and a live and silent auction. Upscale Western Attire. Tickets: $125 | 941.412.9333 | instridetherapy.org
Asolo Rep’s Annual Gala 2014: The Rainbow Room March 1 The Ritz-Carlton 6:00 pm. Start the evening off with a cocktail reception and silent auction, followed by a seated dinner, live music and dancing. Tickets: $300 | 941.351.9010 x4712 | asolorep.org
Celebration of Imagination Vintage Vegas: Casino Night March 1 Michael’s On East 7:00 pm. Enjoy an evening of fun, food, gambling and prizes. Benefits TBS Schools. Tickets: $100 | 941.552.2770 | tbssfamily.org
Mixon Fruit Farm’s Orange Blossom Festival March 1 – 2 Mixon Fruit Farms 9:00 am. Featuring performances by the Wallenda’s and local schools. Enjoy food, rides, crafters, and a 200 foot zipline. Free admission | 941.748.5829| mixon.com
United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota-Manatee’s Chocolate Sundae March 2 Michael’s on East 1:00 pm. More than 20 restaurants and vendors presenting unlimited samplings of chocolate creations. Tickets: $10-$30 | 941.251.4956 | ucpsarasota.org
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Community Video Archives
Hall of Fame Video Premiere Luncheon 11:30am Tuesday, April 22, 2014 | Michael’s On East Ballroom
2014 Honorees
GERRI AARON
Ubiquitous philanthropist who also generously gives her time and wisdom to numerous and varied organizations.
ALEXANDRA QUARLES
A strong leader in the philanthropic community, Alex has helped raise more than $250 million for several not-for-profits, including Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, Inc. as its President, CEO and Trustee.
SAM SHAPIRO
Caring, nurturing philanthropist inspired by the needs of babies, children and the love of art and community.
DANIEL KENNEDY
Founder and CEO of the Sarasota Military Academy, acclaimed for providing the highest quality education incorporating leadership, patriotism and honor.
Induction into the Community Video Archives “Hall of Fame” with a professionally produced video biography of the honoree...which will live forever... is the most prestigious honor our community has to offer. This event has been sold out since its inception. Reservations are available now. $80 per person. Purchase a table of 10 for $800 and order a “Friends & Fans of...” sign cheering for your favorite Hall of Famer at no extra charge. Reservations: 941.365.7052 / videoarchives@comcast.net Community Video Archives is a 501 [c] 3 non-profit corporation
Thanks To Our Sponsors
Annette Scherman
CVA Founder/President
Chris Pfahler
Event Chair & Emcee
South Florida Museum’s “Couture in the Courtyard” March 3 South Florida Museum 10:00 am. Fashion show presented by Saks. Lunch by Michael’s on East. Benefits South Florida Museum. Tickets: $100 | 941.746.4131 x17 | southfloridamuseum.org
Archie Griffin 2014 Celebrity Golf Classic
Golf ChallenGe 12:30 p.m. food & Wine TasTinG 6:00 p.m.
March 3 & 4 Concession Golf Club. Golf and mingle with twotime Heisman Trophy winner Archie Griffin and a star-studded field of his celebrity friends. Benefits The Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County. Golf, Dinner and Pairings Party. Sponsorships available. Tickets: Individual Player - $1500; Pairing Party tickets $175 | 941.907.0018 | concessioncharities.org
Featuring chefs from 25+ premier local restaurants, select wines, silent auction, golf challenge & live music.
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice Bethesda House Mardi Gras Madness
Tuesday, March 18, 2014 The Resort at longboat Key Club, islandside
March 4 Sarasota Yacht Club 6:00 pm. Silent auction, dinner and dancing. Tickets: $125 | 941.355.4680 x311 | catholiccharitiesdov.org
Goodwill Manasota’s Countdown to Mardi Gras March 4 Michael’s on East 6:00 pm. Enjoy a fun filled night of spectacular entertainment, authentic New Orleans food, beads galore and more! Tickets: $125 | 941.355.2721 x104 | experiencegoodwill.org
Madcap Musical & Musings March 4 Friendship Center in Sarasota 6:30 pm. Enjoy cocktails and dinner, followed by an evening of music well seasoned with wit, whimsy and surprises, all to benefit The Friendship Centers. Tickets: $150 | 941.556.3205 | friendshipcenters.org
Junior League of Sarasota’s 12th Annual Legacy Luncheon March 5 Michael’s On East 11:00 am. Featuring Julie & David Eisenhower. Tickets: $95-$1500 | 941.953.5600 | jlsarasota.org
SO’s Visiting Artists Dinner IV March 6 PNC Bank 6:00 pm. Featuring guest pianist JeanPhilippe Collard and guest conductor Mei-Ann Che. Tickets: $150 | 941.487.2737 | sarasotaorchestra.org
Hans Weigand: Neu Vienna Art
For tickets or to become a sponsor visit www.JFCS-Cares.org or contact Stacy Quaid at 941.366.2224 ext. 142 or squaid@jfcs-cares.org CelebrityChefsSarasota MEDIA SPONSOR
VENUE SPONSOR
March 7 – 16 Ice House. Presented by Alfstad& Productions. Opening night gala begins on March 7 at 6:00 pm. Daily exhibition starts on March 8 at 12:00 pm. with Free admission. Gala Tickets: $25 | 941.366.6400 | icehouseon10th.com
Realize Bradenton’s 4th Annual ArtSlam March 8 Downtown Bradenton 12:00 pm. Features dozens of artists, musicians and performers, site-specific art installations, and interactive art experiences. Realizebradenton.com
6th Annual Toast to Venice March 8 Maxine Barrit Park 2:00 pm. Enjoy wine, beer, food tasting, a silent auction and live music. Tickets: $40 | 941.223.6366 | toasttovenice.com
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April 9, 2014 - 6:00 pm Michaels On East $175 per person Alisa W. Pettingell Chairperson Reservations: btb2014.eventbrite.com or 941.365.1277 Ext.103
SponSorS: Sherry and Doug Chapman Clear Channel Gulf Coast Community Foundation Debbie and Larry Haspel The Arthur S. Karp Family Foundation Graci and Dennis McGillicuddy Observer Media Group Publix Super Markets Charities Skip and Gail Sack Saks Fifth Avenue SCENE Magazine Shinn & Company, LLC Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, LLP SNN6 Karen and Michael Valentino EvEnt partnEr State of the Arts Gallery
Ear Research Foundation’s 11th Annual Hear & Now Gala March 8 Van Wezel 6:00 pm. Sarasota Orchestra presents Scheherazade Exotic Stories. Cocktails & dinner. Tickets: $250 | 941.365.0367 | earsinus.com
TM
The Venice Symphony’s 40th Anniversary Gala March 8 Plantation Golf & Country Club 6:00 pm. Enjoy a variety of ensemble performances along with hors d’ouerves, cocktails, and dinner. Tickets: $100 | 941.488.1010 | venicesymphony.org
6th Annual Sertoma Sarasota Celebrity Roast
Purim Masquerade Ball March 8 Ritz-Carlton 6:30 pm. Enjoy cocktails, dinner and dancing. Black tie optional. Benefits The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. Tickets: $250 | 941.552.6308 | jfedsrq.org
7th Annual Chillounge Night at Westfield Southgate March 8 Lot at Westfield Southgate 7:00 pm. Experience the ultimate outdoor lounge party. Benefits Girls Inc. of Sarasota. Tickets: $25 | 888.695.0888 | chilloungenight.com
Girl Scouts 3rd Annual Leadership Luncheon March 12 Polo Grill 11:30 am. Presented by Blair Bloomston, Vice President, game on Nation, focusing on how to empower girls and young women in our community to remain confident against bullies. Tickets: $75 | 941.921.5358 x324 | gsgcf.org
Sarasota Orchestra Association’s “A Paris Flea Market” March 13 – 15 1605 Main Street, Sarasota. An upscale sale supporting the Sarasota Orchestra. Preview sale starts March 13 at 4:00 pm. Tickets: $5. Public sale starts at March 14 at 10:00 with Free Admission. 941.487.2730 | soassociation.org
CLassiCaL
mystery tour Music By:
The
March 8 Hyatt Regency 6:30 pm. Roasting Tom Knight with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Department. Featuring a full slate of celebrity roasters. Limited seating. Tickets: $125 | 941.366.3791 x102 | sarasotaroast.com
bEatlEs Performing With Our:
livE
orchesTra
Hear Favorites: ElEanor rigby
All You Need is Love y e s T e r d ay
april 11 & 12 8:00 pm Van Wezel TickeTs from $32
941-953-3434
www.SarasotaOrchestra.org
Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida’s 48th Annual Dinner Celebration March 13 USF Sarasota-Manatee 6:00 pm. Celebrate CEO Barbara Zdravecky’s 20 years of leadership with cocktails, dinner & silent auction. Tickets: $175 | 941.365.3913 x1124 | myplannedparenthood.org
2014 Renaissance Luncheon March 14 Ritz-Carlton 10:30 am. Enjoy lunch, drawing prizes, silent auctions, vendor shopping & more! Benefits The Women’s Resource Center. Tickets: $125 | 941.366.1700 | TheWomensResourceCenter.org
Sarasota Garden Club’s Gardens In Paradise March 15 at 10:00 am. Visit 5 private coastal gardens tended by passionate gardeners. Tickets: $25 - $35 | 941.955.0875 | sarasotagardenclub.org scenesarasota.com
5
th
Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.
AnniversAry 1949 - 2014
March 2014
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Cat Depot’s Caturday Night Fever March 15 Hyatt Regency 6:30 pm. Enjoy a fabulous buffet, open bar, live and silent auctions, 50/50 chance drawing and outstanding entertainment! Tickets: $150 | 941.366.2404 | catdepot.org
and Gerri Aaron. This coveted award is given annually to individuals whose contributions have helped to uplift the shared life of our community. Sponsorships Available | 941.365.4955 | ajc.org
The Out-of-Door Academy’s Banyan Bash
JFCS’s 10th Annual Celebrity Chefs Food & Wine Tasting
March 15 Uihlein Campus at Lakewood Ranch 6:30 pm. Featuring a live band, food tastings from around the world and an online and live auction. Tickets: $175/$75 alumni | oda.edu
March 18 The Longboat Key Club & Resort. Golf Challenge shot gun start at 12:30 pm. Then at 6:00 pm local chefs prepare signature dishes, paired with hand-selected wines. Benefits Jewish Family & Children’s Services of Sarasota-Manatee. Tickets: $350 for Golf - $100 Tasting | 941.366.2224 x142 | jfcs-cares.org
JHCF’s Eight Over 80 March 16 Michael’s On East 10:30 am. Honoring eight seniors of our local community. Benefits the Kobernick House. 941.377.0781 x124 | kobernickanchin.org
Sister Cities Association of Sarasota’s One World Gala March 16 Michael’s On East 6:30 pm. Cocktails followed by dinner. Honoring Linda Rosenbluth and Embracing Our Differences. Featuring renowned pianist Giulia Vazzoler. Tickets: $150 | 941.378.0085 | SarasotaSisterCities.org
2014 Gasparilla International Film Festival March 19-23. Opening night at Tampa Theatre. Thursday night at Cinebistro. Films at Centro Ybor Murico Friday, Saturday and Sunday. gasparillafilm.com | 813.260.4433
Glitz at the Ritz-Carlton
5th Annual Jewish Film Festival
March 20 Ritz-Carlton 11:15 am. This year’s Schoenbaum Humanitarian Award Honorees are Alice Rau and Joyce Tate. Proceeds from this event benefit The Salvation Army of Sarasota. Tickets: $75 | 941.364.8845 x221
March 16 - 21 Various Locations and Times. Benefits The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. Tickets: $10| 941.552.6301 | jfedsrq.org
Salute to the Stars Awards Luncheon
AJC Human Relations Award Dinner March 17 Michael’s On East 6:00 pm. Honoring David Harris
March 21 Sarasota Yacht Club 11:30 am. Enjoy a gourmet lunch with a live performance. Honoring Sarasota Opera Artists. Tickets: $65 | 941.366.8450 x402 | sarasotaopera.org
SARASOTA MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION, INC. PRESENTS
OZ+YOU
ONE DAY ONLY • MARCH 28, 2014 MEHMET OZ, MD Host, The Dr. Oz Show Women’s Health: Prevention of Cardiac Disease with Proper Nutrition Benefitting the Department of Cardiology at Sarasota Memorial Hospital 2:15 pm Friday, March 28, 2014 The Hyatt Regency Sarasota Ballroom General admission tickets: $100 Reserved seating tickets: $250 Please respond by March 14, 2014 RSVP online at SMHFOZ.com Sponsorships include an exclusive luncheon with Dr. Oz. Please call 214-765-0064 (CST) for more information. Body & Mind SponSorS
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Presents the Second Annual Sunday, March 16, 2014, 10:30 a.m. Michael’s on East 1212 S. East Ave., Sarasota Celebrating our seniors’ leadership, philanthropy and commitment to enhancing our community and our world. Funds raised help support life-enriching programs and services for seniors living in Kobernick House, Anchin Pavilion and Benderson Family Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
Our 2014 Eight Over 80 Honorees are: Herman Frankel Ed Kalin Lee Peterson Sally & Sam Shapiro ~~~ Special Thanks ~~~ PREMIER CORPORATE SPONSOR:
COMMUNITY SPONSOR:
Florence Katz Alisa & Ernest Kretzmer Sally Yanowitz Jeanne & Bob Zabelle*
PREMIER SPONSORS:
SILVER SPONSORS:
Debbie & Larry Haspel
BB&T
KBR Foundation
Barbara & Robert Schwartz
PRESENTING SPONSORS:
BRONZE SPONSORS:
Sharon & Herman Frankel
Gerri Aaron
Alisa & Ernest Kretzmer
Patricia & Robert Baer
Betty Schoenbaum
Sheila & Jerry Birnbaum
Jeanne & Bob Zabelle*
Carol Camiener Habif, Arogeti & Wynne, LLP
CORPORATE GOLD SPONSORS:
PLATINUM SPONSORS:
Stephen & Lila Huse
The Benderson Family
Libbie & Albert Kaplan*
Gerard Daniel
Jill & Scott Levine
Ed Kalin
Judy & Jerry Levinson Susan Milman - The Milman-Kover
GOLD SPONSORS:
MEDIA SPONSOR:
Family Charitable Foundation
Isabel Anchin Becker
Betty & Ed Rosenthal
Margot & Warren Coville
Lorraine & Elliot Schubiner
Sally Yanowitz
Sally & Sam Shapiro
Judy Zuckerberg & George Kole
*In Loving Memory
For sponsorship information, call Iris Starr, 941-377-0781, ext. 124 or email: istarr@kobernickanchin.org www.kobernickanchin.org Event Co-Chairs: Margot & Warren Coville and Irving Bashevkin
5th Annual Ponies for Pups March 22 Sarasota Polo Club 11:00 am. Polo match, silent auction and more. Benefits Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue. Tickets: $10 - $45 | 941.302.0933 | honoranimalrescue.org
The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s Interfaith Passover Seder March 27 Michael’s On East 6:00 pm. Benefits The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. Leaders: Rabbi Howard Simon & Pastor Joey Mimbs. Tickets: $36 | 941.343.2109 | jfedsrq.org
BPW 8th Annual H’Attitude Luncheon March 22 Sarasota Hyatt Regency 11:00 am. Honoring 2014 Women of the Year, Susie Copeland and Attorney Shelli Freeland-Eddie. 941.870.2580 | bpwsarasota.org
SMHF’s Oz & You
An Evening at the Avant-Garde: The Swinging Sixties - Ringling College of Art and Design
March 28 The Hyatt Regency 2:15 pm. Dr. Mehmet Oz presentation featuring Women’s Health: Prevention of Cardiac Disease with Proper Nutrition. Benefits Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation for the SMH Department of Cardiology. Tickets: $100 | 214.765.0064 | smhfoz.com
March 22 Ringling College Campus 6:30 pm. Annual Fundraiser with a sixties theme. Tickets: $250 - $350 | 941.359.7589 | ringling.edu
Lakewood Ranch’s Winterfest Music Festival
Lakewood Ranch Community Fund Black Tie Havana Nights Gala March 22 Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club 6:30 pm. The evening will consist of strolling musicians, cigar rolling viewing, raffles, gourmet dinner, full open bar and dancing to Double Vision. Tickets: $175 | 941.556.5442| lwrfund.org
6th Annual Sarasota Challenge March 22 – 23 Hyatt Regency. This two-day event includes ProAm competitions, instructional seminars, performances by one of today’s top U.S. professional couples and the return of the ever-popular “So You Think Professionals Can Dance” contest. Tickets: $30 - $175 | sarasotachallenge.com
March 29 Lakewood Ranch’s Premier Sports Campus 8:00 am. Festival will feature top-shelf national and local musical acts of all different types. Tickets: $25 advanced $40 at the door | lwrwinterfest.com
Dart Foundation’s “The Firefly Gala” March 29 Concession Golf Club 6:00 pm. Private performance by The Go Go’s, followed by dinner and dancing to a great DJ. Benefits Forty Carrots Family Center. Tickets: $250-$500 | 941.365.7716 | fireflygala.org
Southeastern Guide Dogs 2nd Annual Sarasota Walk-A-Thon March 29 Payne Park 8:30 am. Bring your dog and enjoy some
ALL-NEW 2014 SHOW WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA
Order Tickets Today for Premium Seating “Superb! Every performance was stunning.” — WNYC
April 22-23 Two Shows Van Wezel Hall, Sarasota
Online: Shenyun.com/sarasota Phone: 888.974.3698 | 941.953.3368
5,000 Years of Myths & Legends Come Alive on Stage “This is the finest thing, the finest event I’ve ever been to in my life ... I was in tears, because of the human spirit, the dignity, the power, the love, coming out of those people was astounding ... This is the profound, quintessential end of entertainment, there is nothing beyond this, nothing.” — Jim Crill, former Bob Hope producer
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Reviving 5,000 years of civilization
S
hen Yun is traditional Chinese culture as it was meant to be experienced. It captures the spirit of ancient China, recalling the grandeur of a culture long lost. The show moves quickly from one story, region, and dynasty to the next. Dozens of dancers in dazzling costumes move in seamless, flowing patterns. China’s ethnic and folk dance styles fill the stage with color and energy. Down in the valley, ladies of the Yi ethnic group dance in rainbow skirts by the river. In the heavens, celestial fairies trail silken sleeves through the clouds. Gorgeous backdrops extend the stage, transporting the audience to distant lands and eras. An orchestra, combining Western and Chinese instruments like no other, accompanies with stirring scores.
After Shen Yun performing arts shows on APR 22-23, Shen Yun’s symphony orchestra will return to Sarasota for one concert
October 27 Van Wezel Hall
Presented by Florida Falun Dafa Association scenesarasota.com
Life reinvented
Make Esplanade your new tomorrow.
Esplanade offers an array of beautifully appointed homes with California Tuscan architecture in gated, maintenancefree communities. However you’ve envisioned indulging your dreams, participating actively or relaxing extravagantly, Esplanade offers a range of resort-quality amenities in Florida’s most desirable West Coast locations.
B Y S I E S TA K E Y
GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB AT LAKEWOOD RANCH
BY SIESTA KEY
AT ARTISAN LAKES
Located in the highly sought after Lakewood Ranch area, this community now features an 18-hole championship golf course.
All of the resort-style amenities expected at an Esplanade community, and located only two miles from the world famous beaches of Siesta Key.
Resort-style living surrounded by the natural beauty of open spaces, with winding streets, mature trees and small lakes that offer premium views.
EsplanadeatLakewoodRanch.com
EsplanadebySiestaKey.com
EsplanadeatArtisanLakes.com
For more information, please visit TaylorMorrison.com or call us at 866.495.6006 Offer void where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. Prices may not include lot premiums, upgrades and options. Community Association and other fees may be required. Prices, promotions, incentives, features, options, amenities, floor plans, elevations, designs, materials and dimensions are subject to change without notice. Square footage and dimensions are estimated and may vary in actual construction. Community improvements and recreational features and amenities described are based upon current development plans which are subject to change and which are under no obligation to be completed. Floor plans and elevations are artist’s conception and are not intended to show specific detailing. Floor plans are the property of Taylor Morrison, Inc. and its affiliates and are protected by U.S. copyright laws. For further information, please see a Taylor Morrison Sales Associate and review our Terms of Use. This is not an offering in any state where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. © January 2014 Taylor Morrison of Florida, Inc., All rights reserved. FL GC#CBC1257822
AN INSPIRED LIVING EXPERIENCE FROM
F L O RID A W INE F E S T & AU C T I O N
APRIL 10-13, 2014 P
A
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T
I
E
S
W
I T H
A
P
U
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P
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$7.8 million has been awarded to 77 charities serving disadvantaged children in Sarasota and Manatee Counties.
THURSDAY,
APRIL 10
WINE AND WINEMAKER DINNERS
IN AND AROUND SARASOTA
6:30 PM
THURSDAY,
APRIL 10
“POP” GOES WINEFEST, SARASOTA POPS ORCHESTRA ROCKS WINEFEST UNDER THE ELEGANT WINEFEST TENT ON SARASOTA BAY
6:30 PM
FRIDAY,
APRIL 11
BAYFRONT SHOWCASE LUNCH-TASTING
SATURDAY,
APRIL 12
ON SARASOTA BAY 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
GRAND TASTING, BRUNCH & CHARITY AUCTION
FRIDAY,
UNDER THE ELEGANT WINEFEST TENT ON SARASOTA BAY
APRIL 11
“BANQUET ON THE BLOCK”, FESTIVE STREET PARTY, DOWNTOWN SARASOTA, 5 CHEFS - 5 COURSES
BRUNCH: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM AUCTION: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
6:30 PM
SUNDAY,
APRIL 13
“WINE ON THE WATER”, ALFRESCO WINE TASTING UNDER THE WINEFEST TENT ON SARASOTA BAY 1:00 PM- 4:00 PM
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit floridawinefest.org
(941) 952-1109 / (800) 216-6199 This ad sponsored by:
food, games, entertainment, and shopping. Open to public. guidedogswalkathon.org
MHCC’s 16th Annual Beacon of Light Dinner March 29 Venice Yacht Club 6:00 pm. Benefits the programs of Beacon House. Tickets: $100 | 941.468.4328 | mhcci-public.sharepoint.com
Coexistence Inc.’s Embracing Our Differences March 31 – June 1 Island Park, Downtown Sarasota & Bradenton Riverwalk. International outdoor art exhibit intended to demonstrate in a positive way that diversity enriches our lives. Free and open to the public. 941.928.0567 | embracingourdifferences.org
Upcoming Events From Victims to Victories Silver Lining Gala April 4 Michael’s On East 6:00 pm. Honoring 15 select Sarasota cancer survivors. Enjoy dinner, dancing, and a silent auction. Tickets: $125 | 941.266.9205 | smhf.org
David W. Shoemaker, M.D.
Technology
Beautiful.
Can Be
Sailor Circus Anniversary Celebration April 4 Sailor Circus Arena 6:00 pm. Celebrate Sailor Circus’s rich and exciting history with an interactive soiree. This enchanting evening includes lively entertainment, cocktails and appetizers. Tickets: $75 | 941.355.9335 | circusarts.org
Asolo’s Starry Night Dinner: Hero April 7 The home of Larry and Debbie Haspel 6:30 pm. Tickets: $250 | 941.351.9010 x407 | asolorep.org
There’s an unparalleled beauty to the miracle of vision restoration. At Center For Sight, you have access to the most advanced Laser Cataract Surgery procedures available, performed with the experienced touch of one of the nation’s leading surgeons. Discover the power of technology, designed solely to restore the beautiful gift of sight. Call 941.488.2020 to schedule your FREE cataract screening.
Fore The Love of Habitat April 14 Laurel Oak Country Club 8:30 am. Includes golf, lunch, dinner, open bar, and live and silent auctions. Benefits Habitat for Humanity Sarasota. 941.487.5518 | habitatsrq.org
SaraSota | Manatee | Charlotte CountieS
Your Clear Choice
BEST
David W. Shoemaker, M.D. Founder, Director of Cataract & Lens Replacement Surgery
IN NATION
Named “Best In Nation” by U.S. News & World Report
U.S.News & WORLD REPORT
Community Video Archives Hall of Fame Premiere Luncheon April 22 Michael’s On East 11:00 am. Honorees: Gerri Aaron, Dan Kennedy, Alexandra Quarles and Sam Shapiro. Tickets: $80 | 941.365.7052 | communitysarasota.net scenesarasota.com
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Internationally recognized for delivering unsurpassed results for more than 28 years.
CenterForSight.net • 941.488.2020 THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE PAYMENT, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT.
March 2014
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FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE “Sizzles with life” -Sarasota Herald-Tribune
“Perfect blend” -Venice Gondolier
Featuring songs: “Anything Goes,” “I Love Paris,” “It’s De-Lovely,”and “I Get A Kick Out Of You”
“Musicianship of the highest order” -Total Theater.com
Ben Mackel and Sarah Hund. Photo by Brian Braun.
Richard Hopkins, Artistic Director
Stephen Hope and Ruthie Stephens. Photo by Brian Braun.
366-9000
�oridastudiotheatre.org
Sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the State of Florida.
SAILOR CIRCUS PRESENTS ITS 65TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW
Strength. Courage. Dedication.
H
It’s all part of the
H
LEGACY Thurs, March 27 – Sat, April 5 Tickets on sale NOW!
FREE BAG OF POPCORN! When you bring in a canned food item to benefit All Faith’s Food Bank Veteran’s Program.
Adults $16 • Children $12
Sailor Circus Arena, 2075 Bahia Vista St.
CIRCUSARTS.ORG 941.355.9805
Proud partner of:
US Coast Guard member and Legacy of Valor veteran, Anibal Martinez with Sailor Circus students
The Circus Arts Conservatory is a 501(c)3 non-profit performing arts educational organization
PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR
ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE
guest choreographers: Kira Blazek (New York, NY); Alyson Dolan (Austin, TX); Terrance Henderson (Columbia, SC), and Tennille Lambert (Los Angeles, CA).
The Grapes of Wrath
LEMON BAY PLAYHOUSE
941.351.8000 / asolorep.org
March 12 – April 19 The story of a nation through the eyes of the Joad family, driven from the dust bowl of Oklahoma toward the promised land of California in search of a new home, jobs and dignity.
Philadelphia, Here I Come!
941.475.6756 / lemonbayplayhouse.com
A Touch of Danger March 12 – April 6 Novelist Max Telligan has unwittingly become embroiled in an international terrorist group.
Through April 12 This play paints a touching and humorous portrait of a young man on the verge of a new beginning.
MANATEE PLAYERS
Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike
Beehive
941.748.5875 / manateeplayers.com
Determined to win the heart of the beautiful Rosina with charm and wit, rather than money, Count Almaviva enlists the help of Figaro, the Barber of Seville, to steal her away from her guardian, Dr. Bartolo.
The Flying Dutchman Through March 23 Ancient lore comes to life in the tale of a cursed sea captain forced to wander the world, ultimately finding redemption in the selfless gift of a woman’s love.
Jérusalem Through March 8 - 22 An epic tale of warriors, family rivalry, and jealousy evolves into a story of forgiveness.
Through April 13 A laugh-out-loud comedy featuring middle-aged siblings Vanya and Sonia, their movie-star sister Masha and her boy-toy, Spike.
Through March 16 A musical celebration of the girl groups and female singers of the 1960s such as The Supremes, Tina Turner, Janis Joplin, Aretha Franklin and more.
SARASOTA ORCHESTRA
CIRCUS SARASOTA
Man of La Mancha
March 7 -9 Immerse yourself in a whirlwind of melodies representing rural Chinese culture, then plunge into an exciting rendezvous with Ravel’s Piano Concerto.
941.355.9805 / circussarasota.org
Sailor Circus 65th Anniversary Show March 27 – April 5 Sailor Circus Arena. Circus Sarasota commemorates the landmark anniversary of The Greatest “Little” Show on Earth in partnership with the Legacy of Valor project saluting veterans.
FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE 941.366.9000 / floridastudiotheatre.org
Thurgood Through March 8 A powerful play based on the life of Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall.
Daddy Long Legs Through April 5 Set in New England in the early 1900s, this new musical follows a courageous young orphan who dreams of a better life.
March 20 – April 6 This is a play-within-a-play, based on Cervantes’ “Don Quixote.”
THE PLAYERS THEATRE 941.365.2494 / theplayers.org
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels March 20 - 30 Based on the popular 1988 film, this hilarious battle of cons will keep audiences guessing to the very end!
Graziano, Ashton & DeMille Through March 3 Featuring Ricardo Graziano’s World Premiere, Sir Frederick Ashton’s Monotones I & II, and Agnes DeMille’s Rodeo.
SARASOTA OPERA Il Trovatore
941.359.0099 x101 / fuziondance.org Jane B. Cook Theater/FSU
“Dance Couture: Art Meets Dance” March 13 - 15 Features imaginative works by four prominent scenesarasota.com
March 13 -14 This is a two-night Mozart chamber festival. First night begins with Mozart’s String Quartet No. 16 then his Piano Quintet K. 452. Second night continues with Mozart’s String Quintet in G Minor features two violas.
March 16 Join SO for a special celebration as they feature six festival alumni at various stages of their meteoric careers.
941.359.0099 / sarasotaballet.org
941.366.8450 / sarasotaopera.org
FUZIÓN DANCE ARTISTS
Chamber – Mozart Madness
Shooting Stars 50th Anniversary Celebration Concert
Through April 20 A celebration of the American Storytellers.
Through June 7 Conjuring up images of elegant women dancing with tuxedo-clad men, this Cole Porter musical revue takes you back to the 1930s.
Master Works – Exotic Stories
SARASOTA BALLET
Poems, Prayers, and Promises
A Cole Porter Revue: Too Darn Hot
941.953.3434 / sarasotaorchestra.org
Through March 22 A troubador’s quest for love, a soldier’s lust, and a mother’s undying thirst for vengeance is the story of this dramatic opera by Verdi.
The Barber of Seville Through March 21
Great Escapes – Come Fly with Me March 19 -22 & 30 Enjoy themed music including Superman, Up Where We Belong, Fly Me to the Moon and movie music from Apollo 13 and Harry Potter, along with Ride of the Valkyries, Free as a Bird and Come Fly with Me.
Pops – Satchmo, Fats & The Duke March 28 -29 The Orchestra showcases the greatest hits of Louis Armstrong, Fats Waller and Duke Ellington with famed trumpeter and vocalist Byron Stripling.
VAN WEZEL PERFORMING ARTS HALL 941.955.7676 / vanwezel.org
Alton Brown LIVE - Edible Inevitable Tour March 2 March 2014
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Chicago: The Musical
The Moody Blues
Underneath the Lintel
March 4 – 5
March 24
Jerry Seinfeld
Patti LuPone
March 7
March 25
March 13 – 30 A puzzling mystery begins when a Dutch librarian discovers a surprise in the overnight return slot – a travel guidebook that is 113 years overdue!
Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons
Where the Action Is Tour
March 10
March 26
Peking Acrobats
Indigo Girls with Symphony Orchestra
March 12
March 27
Aaron Neville
The Midtown Men
March 13
March 30
Academy of St Martin in the Fields
Mark Russell
March 14
March 31
Joan Rivers
VENICE THEATRE
March 15
A Night at the Opera
Rave On (A Tribute to Buddy Holly)
941.488.1115 / venicestage.com
March 16
Oklahoma
Bill Cosby
Through March 16 This high-spirited musical set the standards and established the rules of musical theatre still being followed today.
March 16
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast March 17 – 18
March 16 - 17 An electrifying, high-energy, rock n’ roll extravaganza featuring America’s premier Buddy Holly interpreters.
VENICE SYMPHONY
941.488.1010 / thevenicesymphony.org
“With Strings Attached”– Ann Hobson-Pilot, Harp Solo Orchestra selections include Copland’s Four Dance Episodes from “Rodeo” and Schuman’s Symphony No. 1.
WESTCOAST BLACK THEATRE TROUPE 941.366.1505 / wbttroupe.org
Let’s Hang On! (A Frankie Valli Tribute)
Irish Tenors March 19
Vince Gill with special guest Amy Grant March 21
Johnny Clegg w/ Ladysmith Black Mambazo
March 9 – 10 Dance and sing along to some of the most memorable songs of the ‘60s: “Sherry”, “Big Girls Don’t Cry”, “Walk like a Man”, and more.
Harry & Lena Through March 23 Nate Jacobs honors the debonair “King of Calypso” Harry Belafonte and the incomparable singer/ actress Lena Horne in an original musical revue.
March 23
“A
thrilling
theatrical
achievement” – New York Post
Winner 1990 Tony Award Best Play
MAR 14-APR 19 based on the novel by John Steinbeck adapted by Frank Galati Directed by Michael Donald Edwards Frank Galati’s groundbreaking adaptation of Steinbeck’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel won the Tony Award for Best Play and has become a national treasure. Composer/Music Director Tim Grimm, an award-winning American folk musician, infuses live music into this story of a nation through the eyes of the Joad family, driven from the dust bowl of Oklahoma toward the promised land of California in search of a new home, jobs and dignity. Part naturalistic epic, part road trip and part inspirational gospel, The Grapes of Wrath is a soaring affirmation of the goodness, strength and perseverance of the human spirit.
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FOR TICKETS CALL 941-351-8000 OR 800-361-8388 OR VISIT ASOLOREP.ORG scenesarasota.com
SOCIAL
Van Wezel Foundation Gala The 13th Annual Van Wezel Foundation Gala featuring Jay Leno was the Foundation’s most successful and largest attended Gala to date. It was a tremendous coup to get Jay Leno the day after his final performance on the Tonight Show and his performance reflected his personality and his gifted sense of comedy. The gala patrons enjoyed delicious food by Michael’s On East and the event was masterfully planned by Mary Kenealy Events and a talented Gala committee led by co-chairs Lucille Smith, Kathy Martella and Brenda Maraman.
Michael Calamaras & Kelly Martella
Photos by Cliff Roles
David Sales & Pauline Joerger
Monica Slater van Buskirk, Gabrielle Slater & Julia Mays
Ed Sarbey, Veronica Brady & Mark Famiglio
Sandy & Vern Buchanan
Announcing
The Founders Society A program for those who dare to dream about making a difference. Our new Founders Society offers you
Inspiration Where
Takes Center Stage
giving opportunities that will bring hundreds of school children through our doors to be inspired by live performances and will support needed improvements in the Performing Arts Hall. Plenty of inspiring perks for you too! Join the Founders Society today.
™
For information about the terrific benefits of Founders Society membership, call Michele Strauss or Elsie Merrill at (941) 366-5578. WWW.VWFOUNDATION.ORG
Van Wezel Foundation Inc. meets all the requirements specified by the Florida Solicitation of Contributions Act. A copy of the official registration #CH3676 and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling 1-800-435-7352 within the state. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval or recommendation by the state.
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enhance Your Favorite Spaces
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Visit our new showroom or call us today for a FREE in-home estimate at 941.953.3240.
When Quality Comes First.™
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ARTS & CULTURE PRESENTED BY:
1 1) Sarasota Wildlife Art Festival and Wildlife Symposium March 1-2, 2014 This juried fine art exhibition, presented by Save Our Seabirds, showcases 60 amazing wildlife artists, plus an educational environmental symposium. Tickets: $5. Children 12 and under free. Includes free admission to Save Our Seabirds Wild Bird Learning Center and a $5 discount on admission to Mote Marine Aquarium on the days of the show. www. saveourseabirds.org
2
Why it Matters: The artistic, educational Sarasota Wildlife Art Festival and Wildlife Symposium is a joint venture of the Rotary Club of Sarasota, Save Our Seabirds, Mote Marine Aquarium, and Ringling College of Art + Design. All proceeds go right back into the local community, helping to fund the various humanitarian grants made by the Rotary Club of Sarasota Foundation and also supporting the efforts of Save Our Seabirds to rescue, rehabilitate, and release sick and injured birds.
2) YouthArts Fest March 22, 2014 YouthArts Fest is a fun, free event for families that celebrates the extraordinary artistic tal-
3
ent being developed by the arts education programs in our local public schools. Over 500 students will showcase their talents in various performances throughout the day. Selby Library will display an extensive student art exhibit. Hands-on craft areas and kid-friendly food and drink vendors will be spread throughout the festival. Local organizations will be exhibiting to offer information on the summer and after-school programs, workshops and scholarship opportunities they offer to students. Why It Matters: One of the top priorities of the Arts and Cultural Alliance is to build support for arts education programs in local schools. The Alliance hopes this showcase of the amazing artistic talents in local schools will inspire the community to ensure the arts remain an essential part of a complete education for students. www.sarasotaarts.org
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3) Sarasota Folk Festival March 22-23, 2014 Music all day, on three different stages with headlining artists Harvey Reid & Joyce Anderson, Bing Futch, Patchouli and Bardic Rose, and more than 30 additional talented Showcase performers. During the festival, there is a jam tent for aspiring musicians of all ages, and a workshop tent for those seeking up-close and personal tips and instructions from their favorite artists. The 11th Annual Festival will return to its home at the beautiful Oscar Scherer State Park. www.sarasotafolkfestival.org Why it Matters: The Sarasota Folk Festival strives to keep the tradition of folk music
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The Best Orthopedic Care More Agile As an established regional referral center for Orthopedics, Sarasota Memorial and its experienced surgeons specialize in the most advanced joint repair and replacement procedures. Now the best Orthopedic care is located on the top floor of our new Courtyard Tower. Private rooms are spacious, healing and high-tech. A new physical therapy gym promotes post-surgery recovery and patients have our highly trained care team as their partners every step of the way. The best orthopedic care is now more agile than ever – and so are our patients.
smh.com/ortho
Sarasota’s only rental senior community offering a full continuum of care • Independent Living • Assisted Living • Secure Memory Care • Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation
To learn more or take a tour, call Esther: 941-225-8369. kobernickanchin.org | 1951 North Honore Avenue | Sarasota, FL 34235 Sponsored by Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Housing Council, Inc., Kobernick-Anchin-Benderson operates on a non-discriminatory basis for admissions, services and employment. Assisted Living Facility # 8951 • Skilled Nursing Facility # 130471046
Pirouette® window shadings with Powerrise® Technology Silhouette® draperies with Ultraglide® Technology
AMERICAN-MADE CUSTOM DRAPES, SHUTTERS, SHADES, SOLAR SHADES & BLINDS
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Palm Beach Lantana® shutters
DOMENICK’S BLINDS & DECOR
Parts & Repairs | Free Estimates | Free Installation (on orders over $300)
4540 Clark Road, Sarasota | 941-922-2345 | www.DomenicksBlinds.com
Lois & Domenick Falconetti
alive in the Sarasota area by offering programs that feature a diverse mix of genres, all under the “Folk” umbrella. The festival provides a rich, fun-filled cultural experience in an environment that is accessible to all. The festival delights all the senses, not just musically, but with folklife exhibits, quality vendors selling clothing, art & crafts and plenty of delicious food! It’s more than a festival... it’s a celebration!
4) Jazz Juvenocracy All Star Reunion Concert March 22, 2014 Jazz Juvenocracy, the originals and the die hards, reunite for one night only. Members of this sextet, with an average age of less than 20, have gained serious street-cred playing alongside Roy Hargrove, Joe Lovano, and Dick Hyman. This concert will feature some of the most intriguing polyrhythmic
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compositions of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers, complete with the aggressive driving rhythm section, and the virtuosic improvisation that reinvented jazz as an artist's genre. www. jazzjuvenocracy.com Why it Matters: These local young musicians have grown up on jazz together, developing chops well beyond their years. With the avid support of their community, they have earned international acclaim. Recent reviews of
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their third, and most recent tour of Europe including North Sea, Montreux, and Umbria Jazz Festivals: “They were
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young band Jazz Juvenocracy collected all the votes.” “The Jazz Juvenocracy 2013 Tour largely honored their reputation.” “It should be noted that all the
For those who want more…
musicians are between the ages of 16 and 19. Respect!”
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Iwan Mohamed
&
Jonathan Schneider
An enduringly successful company,
Talk with Iwan Mohamed and Jonathan
BB&T has been in existence since 1872
Schneider for just a few minutes and you’ll
and is one of the largest financial services
quickly realize they are as passionate about living in this community as they are
holding companies in the U.S. with $181.1 billion in assets and market capitalization of $23.8 billion as of September of
about making BB&T (Branch Banking
2013, according to its website. Based
and Trust) your hometown bank.
in Winston-Salem, N.C., the company is one of the Fortune 500 — operating approximately 1,824 financial centers in 12 states and Washington, D.C., and offering a full range of consumer and
commercial
banking,
securities
brokerage, asset management, mortgage and insurance products and services. “I really enjoy living in Sarasota,” said Mohamed, 46, who assumed his role of market president of BB&T’s Sarasota branch
after
spending
the
previous
25 years working in finance in Fort Lauderdale. “I enjoy the refreshing aspect of people appreciating each other’s company and taking the time to know each other better. My vision — and my goal in Sarasota is a reflection of this vision — is to create the best financial institution possible, to be the best of the best. And I use that as a guiding light for what I do in Sarasota County.” A graduate of Florida International University in Miami, Mohamed has been with BB&T for six years. He’s married and lives in Palmer Ranch with his wife, a 14-year-old son and a 10-year-old daughter, both of whom attend school in Sarasota County. Mohamed said he is dedicated to fully
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“We want to listen to what’s going on in your life and guide you, based on experience and the huge breadth of services and solutions that we can bring as a top ten financial institution in the country.” representing BB&T throughout the greater
are small businesses to mid-market
on how we can best help them. We need
Sarasota community. “I have a commercial
companies that have annual revenues
to help our clients realize their dreams
team that reports to me here,” he said. “So
ranging anywhere from $2 million to
— to attain their personal aspirations,
I have two relationship managers, as well
$60 million, but Mohamed said talking
achieve a specific goal in their life or to
as support staff that also report to me.
about numbers is a boring exercise. He
accomplish a milestone. That’s the perfect
Our responsibility is to raise the profile of
preferred to underscore BB&T’s aim to
client experience – providing reliable,
BB&T in this market and gain market share
be Sarasota’s hometown bank.
responsive, and empathetic answers to
by growing our existing client base as well as earning business from new clients.”
“Any bank can offer loans and
their needs. Everything we do, from the
deposits,” he said. “What sets us apart
folks at the executive level all the way
BB&T
is the fact that I and my team live here
down to our tellers, lives and breathes this
market president for Manatee County,
locally. We manage our relationships
ethic. It’s what makes us client-centric.”
attended
before
with our clients locally. Our decision-
That’s what one would expect from
graduating from the banking school at
making process is for the most part local.
an institution that is 142 years old with
Louisiana State University. “I was born
We take pride in being involved in the
a lasting reputation of wisely investing its
on a naval base in Norfolk, Virginia,” he
community locally with our clients and
clients’ assets, consistently ranking among
said. “My father was a naval officer for
take part in events here. We’re invested
the elite banks in the country, Schneider
23 years. We moved every two years, but
in this community and we give back as
added. “BB&T has built a legacy and it’s
I grew up in the northern Virginia area.”
much as our clients do, with respect to
up to us to continue that — to grow and
charities and not-for-profits that they’re
foster the relationships we have with our
involved in locally.”
employees and with our clients,” he said.
Schneider,
the
Liberty
34-year-old University
Now in his seventh year with the company, Schneider brings a wealth of life experience to his job. Prior to
Schneider added what sets BB&T apart
“We are solid, and our clients and
being recruited into BB&T’s leadership
from other banking institutions is its unique
prospects deserve the ability, strength
development program, he worked as
culture. “We’ve got 30,000 employees
and service that we can bring to them,”
a senior manager in the health and
practicing a culture that is driven by a very
Mohamed added. “Everyone has something
fitness industry and even once played
strong belief in our company’s core values,
they want to achieve by a certain time.
professional baseball in the Pittsburgh
which place relationships above products
We’re here to help you get your business
Pirates organization. He lives in Bradenton
and services,” he said.
to the next level. We’re here to help you
with his wife and three daughters ages six, four, and one. Schneider said, “My role with BB&T is to lead the bank’s efforts in helping our
Mohamed stressed that for he and
sell your business, if you choose, or we’re
Schneider, their mission is to provide
here to help you buy a business. We want
what the company calls “the perfect
to listen to what is going on in your life
client experience.”
and guide you, based on experience and
clients achieve economic success and
“What that means is to be useful
the huge breadth of services and solutions
financial security; provide a place where
consultants to our clients,” he said. “We’re
that we can bring as a top ten financial
our employees can grow and be fulfilled in
not going to tell a client they need a loan
institution in the country.”
their work; and help make our community
or that we need to sell them a particular
Sounds like two market presidents
a better place to live and work.”
product or service of the day. We want to
committed to making BB&T our home-
listen to their story and consult with them
town bank.
Clients of the Sarasota branch
CONNECT: Iwan Mohamed, SARASOTA MARKET PRESIDENT (941.225.4336) | Jonathan Schneider, MANATEE MARKET PRESIDENT (941.739.7028) scenesarasota.com
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51
ARTS & CULTURE
GALLERY SCENE Presented by the Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County R. Luke DuBois – Now The Ringling Museum of Art presents the first solo museum exhibition for R. Luke DuBois—a New York-based “new media” artist, who through his simultaneous work as a composer, computer programmer, filmmaker, and installation artist, defies traditional categorization. R. Luke DuBois – Now will showcase dozens of works, including films, works on paper, installations, video and sound objects, ranging from the late 1990s through today. It will also include a new commission created during DuBois’ 2013-2014 residency at the Ringling. DuBois’ commission is inspired by the historical links between the Ringling legacy and the circus, a powerful and often overlooked example of collective performance art. “Luke is the embodiment of the genre-defying artist that we at the Ringling want to collaborate with and introduce to our audiences,” said Curator Matthew McLendon. “His work represents the kind of ‘blurring of the lines’ happening across contemporary art today and the type of practice that the Ringling is exploring through ‘Art of Our Time.’ We are thrilled to be the first museum to present Luke’s work in a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary exhibition and to introduce our visitors to this pioneering artist.” The Ringling Museum of Art | Through May 4, 2014 | www.theringling.org
Revelations On The World As It Is Artists Adriane Colburn and Christina Seely each travel throughout the world and record their findings on the changing global environment through installations, digital films and photographs. Ms. Colburn’s recent work consists of large-scale installations (comprised of layers of hand cut paper, digital prints and projected light) that investigate the complex relationships between human infrastructure, earth systems, technology and the natural world. Ms. Seely’s work finds its home in the conversation between the photographic image and the complexities of our contemporary relationship with the natural world. Visit the exhibit, and get inspired! The public is invited to submit images via Instagram of their own artwork inspired by the exhibition and presentations. The images will be juried and presented electronically in Selby Gallery for one evening, Tues., April 1, 5:00-7:00 pm. Adriane Colburn and Christina Seely | Selby Gallery - Ringling College of Art and Design | Through April 5, 2014 | 2700 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota | www.ringling.edu/selbygallery
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Paradise in Season: New Works by Beverly A. Smith, Vladislav Yeliseyev and Joseph Palmerio The exhibit includes abstract and impressionistic landscapes in oil and watercolor. Beverly A. Smith has been a teacher, coach, mother, exercise physiologist but now devotes most of her time to creating art. “My expressionistic work is intuitive,” says Smith. “As I add more paint, movement, shape and texture to the work, it develops itself and becomes a painting.” Classically trained, Vladislav Yeliseyev combines an artist’s eye with an architect’s obsession. After graduating in fine art from Moscow School of Arts, Yeliseyev earned a master’s degree in architecture from the Moscow Institute of Architecture in 1983. “My every work is a manifest of light existence. Understanding the nuances of light is a matter of life and death in landscape painting,” says Yeliseyev. Joseph Palmerio is a graduate of the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, and the Barnes Foundation in Philadelphia Pa. His work is part of numerous private collections throughout the country, including the Coville collection in Sarasota, the Grant collection in Reston Va., and the Havard collection in Philadelphia. Celery Barn in Towles Court | March 14 - April 30 | 266 South Links Avenue, Sarasota
Deborah Brestel: A Walk in the Woods Art Uptown presents a solo exhibition by Deborah Brestel called “A Walk in the Woods,” featuring her acrylic paintings of trees. Along with Brestel's pieces, the new work of more than 25 accomplished artist members of Art Uptown will be on display at the reception and throughout March. “Growing up in Maine, I spent most of my time playing in the forest,” Brestel said, adding that several times she even skipped school to be in the setting she enjoyed so much. “I loved to read, and I would take a few library books, to sit all day reading in a favorite place, surrounded by trees.” Art Uptown | Through March 28, 2014 | Artist Reception: March 7, 6 to 9pm 1367 Main Street www.artuptown.com
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LIFESTYLE
“Wealth is not his that has it, but his that enjoys it.” — Benjamin Franklin
Spotlight
Yara’s Way
By Yara Shoemaker
Dangerous Delicacies Fine foods are a pleasure, but you may not be so pleased to know what some of them are doing to your body. Avoid over-indulging on these treats to keep your cholesterol in check, so you can enjoy them in moderation over a long, healthy life! • Hollandaise Sauce & Caesar Dressing – the egg yolks in these creamy sauces are the culprits that raise cholesterol. Each yolk has a lofty cholesterol level of 210 mg (70% of your daily value, or DV)! • Caviar – we all love it, but with 94 mg per tablespoon (31% DV), the black pearls seem to lose their luster. • Fois Gras – since the liver manufactures cholesterol in the body, it’s no wonder fois gras weighs in at 255 mg per 100 gram serving (85% DV). • Shrimp & Lobster – shrimp cocktail and lobster thermidor are fine dining staples, but partaking in these classics sets you back 195 mg for a 100 gram serving (65% DV). • Oysters – whether they’re served raw, baked, or Rockefeller, these shellfish contain a hefty 105 mg cholesterol per 100 gram serving (35% DV).
Yara’s Table Spring Shrimp Salad Serves 4 This spring, let’s eat lighter and better with the seasonal flavors of asparagus and watercress! • 1 teaspoon grated lime rind
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/3 cup fresh lime juice
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
• 2 cups chopped asparagus
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 7 cups roughly chopped romaine lettuce
• Pinch black pepper
• 1 cup watercress, stems trimmed
Add the first 8 ingredients to a small bowl and gradually whisk in 3 tablespoons of the olive oil. Heat the remaining oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Add shrimp; cook 2 minutes. Add dressing; cook 1 minute. Stir in asparagus. Place romaine and watercress in a large bowl; toss with shrimp mixture. Serve with your favorite dill dip. Although this is just a salad, remember that shrimp is high in cholesterol (see Spotlight above), so hit the gym today!
Kitchen Talk
Say “sayonara” to salmonella by checking your eggs for freshness. Look for the longest possible expiration dates and, to avoid losing freshness in transport, try to buy local when possible, like the farm fresh eggs at Jessica’s Farm in Sarasota. To make sure the contents of your carton are still nutritiously new, try this ancient trick my family has used for generations: fill a deep bowl with room temperature water and place each egg in separately. Those that sink to the bottom are still good; those that float are bad and should be discarded.
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Natural Allure
Coats of polish, years of dishwashing, chips and nicks galore…we put our nails through a lot. Give them some love with this natural mixture that strengthens, nourishes and protects against brittleness and breakage.
Strengthening Nail Soak • Two organic eggs (for protein)
• ¼ cup whole organic milk (for calcium)
• ½ cup of good quality olive oil (moisturizes)
• 1 tablespoon orange juice (for folic acid)
• Several drops of lemon juice (to brighten yellowed nails) • Contents of one fish oil capsule (for omega-3) Mix all ingredients in a small bowl and soak unpolished nails for 15 minutes, then wash well with mild soap. Do this 2-3 times per week to see results in about a month. Soon your nails will be back to fabulous!
No Men Allowed Top Toxins in Your Skincare Have you ever stared at the label on a jar of moisturizer? Unless you’re a chemist, you can’t expect to know all of that jargon. A better plan of action is to know what chemicals to avoid. This way, if you see one of the following terms listed on a label, you can put down that $100 cream and walk (no, run!) away. Parabens: these preservatives are added to skincare products for longevity. Just as you shouldn’t eat processed foods with a long shelf life, you shouldn’t use products that have a ton of parabens. Look for the words: Methylparaben, Propylparaben, IIsoparaben, and Butylparaben. Petrochemicals: here comes a big list of words that you can’t pronounce (it’s okay, nobody can!). Ready? Don’t use products that contain: Behentrimonium Chloride, Guar Hydrosypropyltrimonium Chloride, Linoleamidepropyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate. That’s a lot of words to know! But, it’s also important to know them. Petrochemicals may be linked to certain types of cancer due to prolonged usage. Isopropyl Alcohol: this isn’t a bad ingredient when it comes to cleaning wounds, but isopropyl alcohol has no place near your face. It will dry out your skin, causing it to look older – keep it away from your body too!
On the Move Saint Barthélemy Grab a group of your favorite friends and let loose, because what happens in St. Barts stays in St. Barts… Fly into nearby St. Maarten (the closest major airport) and take a propeller plane to the unforgettable beachside landing strip on St. Barts. The island culture is decidedly French, although most people speak English, and you’ll want to pack your finest “resort chic” clothing, because the beaches are packed with designer cover-ups and teeny bejeweled bikinis. Stay in a luxurious 2 or 3-bedroom villa at the breathtaking Hotel Saint-Barth Isle de France for a hilltop view of the beaches and town, or at Le Sereno Hotel for quiet privacy. Be sure to lunch in both hotels’ restaurants, because they are not to be missed! If you’re looking for downtown action, try Eden Roc for a meal among the rich and famous. And for daytime revelry, Nikki Beach will have you dancing on the tables in no time – just remember to order something to eat, between chatting up models and enjoying the nearly constant entertainment. At night, Le Ti Restaurant is the place to party! Get dolled up for this place and go late (after 10:00pm) to lose your cares in the nonstop celebration, music and dancing.
For more amazing recipes look inside my new cookbook, Health On Your Plate, now available on Amazon! FemRouge.com is a complete online lifestyle guide with unique approaches to healthy cooking, natural beauty, personal style, luxury travel and more. Yara Shoemaker is passionate about sharing her experience and advice to improve the lives of others and help everyone be beautiful from the inside out.
Find more great tips and recipes at www.FemRouge.com scenesarasota.com
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SOCIAL
SCBB’s Red Hot! Event The Third Annual Red Hot! event, to celebrate Suncoast Blood Bank’s (SCBB) 65th year of service, was recently held at Michael’s on East. The room buzzed with energy as more than two hundred guests played casino games and took snapshots with Vegas showgirls! “Our mission is not simple, and it’s not inexpensive. Every single unit will be tested, processed, stored and transfused with the assurance that it meets the highest standards of safety. Lives depend on it,” SCBB Board President Mary Ann Legler told the group of supporters. The event raised $70,000 to benefit the programs and services provided by SCBB and was sponsored by Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute.
Photos by Cliff Roles
Chris & Paula Gray
Scott Bush & Mary Ann Legler
Chelsea & A.J. Stickley
Robert Kohnen & Sheri Weinstein
Heather Zangara & Kelly Marsh
CHAMBER MUSIC
FESTIVAL
april 2 | 6 | 10 | 13 | 16
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listeners worldwide* but you can be there!
cellist Antonio Meneses
CONCERT DATES AT THE SARASOTA OPERA HOUSE
33 million
photo by Marco Borggreve
artistic director Bruno Giuranna associate artistic director Derek Han Federico Agostini, violin presenting the world premiere Julie Albers, cello Rebecca Albers, viola of the 2012 Greenfield Prize Dmitri Atapine, cello commission by Scott Faulkner, double bass Vijay Iyer José Franch-Ballester, clarinet Jennifer Frautschi, violin Bruno Giuranna, viola Derek Han, piano Antonio Meneses, cello a collaboration with The Cynthia Phelps, viola Hermitage Artist Retreat Massimo Quarta, violin Laura Zarina, violin
Vijay Iyer
photo by Jimmy Katz
www.LaMusicaFestival.org
2014
LA MUSICA INTERNATIONAL
*via podcast on Classical Music Discoveries
Special Guest Artists:
Vijay Iyer, composer Cory Smythe, piano Imani Winds, woodwind quintet scenesarasota.com
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Before You Write Your Will… Christopher Cogan, CCIM®, Richard T. Williams, III, CFA®, Aimee Cogan, CFP®, CIMA® & Scott Rockwell
Writing a Will is not as simple as it sounds. For most people, it requires important decisions on how to divide assets, who to select as an executor and beneficiaries, what to do about amounts owed by you and debts owed to you and how to adequately provide for children, among other considerations.
P
reparing a Will is one of the most important steps you can take in managing your finances, yet for many people, it is something they would rather not face. However, if you die intestate (without a Will), state law will apply and determine how your assets are to be distributed. What’s more, if you are a single parent of minor children, the same
court will decide with whom your children will live. On the other hand, if you take the time to prepare a Will, you will be the one who determines how your property is distributed, who will be the guardian of your minor children and who will manage your estate when you are gone.
Drafting a Will Ideally, your Will should be drawn up by a lawyer, and you (and your heirs, if possible) should be familiar with its general form and contents. Although it is your legal right to do so, it is never a good idea to draft your own Will. You may not be aware of the statutory requirements that exist in your particular state, and some states may have different standards for witnessing a Will or require specific language that must be included in order for the Will to be valid. When meeting with a lawyer to draft your Will, make sure to bring the proper information, as outlined below: • List of assets. Include your real estate, bank and investment accounts; retirement accounts; and other valuable personal property. Do you have any belongings that hold sentimental value beyond their economic worth? Decide for each item whether you would like to leave it directly to one of your heirs or have it sold to increase the cash value of your estate. • List of debts. Include your credit cards, mortgages, home equity loans, car loans, student loans, personal debts and outstanding medical or other bills. Do you have enough cash in your accounts to cover these debts? If not, which assets would you like your executor to liquidate first to pay your creditors? Then list any debts owed to you by others. Do you want these debts to be extinguished at your death, or do you want your executor to collect them to add to the value of your estate?
• List of potential beneficiaries. Include in your thoughts not only your immediate family, but also friends, relatives and institutions or organizations that have contributed positively to your life or that you would like to support. Determine which beneficiaries you would like to inherit special items, such as a treasured family heirloom, and which ones you would like to inherit all or a portion of your cash assets. • Executor considerations. An executor is the person with administrative responsibility to settle your estate’s affairs. Essentially, the executor’s job is to protect your property until all debts have been settled and to ensure that what remains is transferred to the appropriate beneficiaries. The law does not require an executor to be a legal or financial expert. Therefore, a family member who is savvy with fiscal matters, or a trusted friend or business person could serve in this capacity. Whomever you select, make sure the person is willing and able to do the job. Discuss the position with the person you’ve chosen before you make your Will. • Special circumstances that your executor may need to address. This could include arrangements for a child who has reached the age of majority but has special needs. Also, if you have minor children, an important provision is the selection of a guardian who would raise them in the event of your death and the death of your spouse. Also, consider any arrangements you would like to make for the care of livestock or pets, or the continuation of a business enterprise. Finally, be sure to name an alternative executor and guardian in case your first choice is unable to serve at the time of your death.
The Post-Will Process Once your Will is completed, your original Will should be stored in a secure place and make sure that its location is known to family members and/or close friends. Make a point of reviewing your Will every few years with your attorney — or more often if family circumstances or federal and/or state tax laws change — and revise if necessary to ensure that its contents conform to current laws and that it ref lects your current status and desires.
Other Planning Considerations In addition to a Will, you should consider having the following documents be a part of your basic estate plan: • Trusts. Trusts are legal instruments that allow you to transfer ownership of property to a trustee (either a person or financial institution) who manages it for the beneficiaries named by the trust. There are many types of trusts that serve multiple purposes, including living trusts, life insurance trusts, trusts for minors, qualified personal residence trusts and charitable trusts. In general, trusts can help to manage assets, protect assets and avoid probate, but perhaps the biggest benefit of trusts is that they allow beneficiaries to enjoy property ownership while minimizing their tax exposure. Keep in mind that trusts are legal documents — an attorney can help explain the complexities of specific trust arrangements. • Alternate Decision Makers. Another necessary part of any estate plan is executing a durable power of attorney, a health care proxy and a living will. These documents authorize individuals, whom you select, to make financial, legal and medical decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so. These are some of the basic estate planning tools that all individuals should consider. Contact me to discuss any of these tools in more detail or for help getting started with your own estate plan.
Plan Right. The Bellwether Group at Morgan Stanley can be reached at 941.363.8515 If you’d like to learn more, please contact Aimee Cogan. Article by Wealth Management Systems, Inc. and provided courtesy of Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. This material was not intended or written to be used, and it cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed on the taxpayer. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters. The author(s) are not employees of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”). The opinions expressed by the authors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley. The information and data in the article or publication has been obtained from sources outside of Morgan Stanley and Morgan Stanley makes no representations or guarantees as to the accuracy or completeness of information or data from sources outside of Morgan Stanley. Neither the information provided nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation by Morgan Stanley with respect to the purchase or sale of any security, investment, strategy or product that may be mentioned. Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor(s) engaged Scene Magazine to feature this article. Aimee Cogan may only transact business in states where she is registered or excluded or exempted from registration http://brokercheck.finra.org/Search/Search.aspx. Transacting business, follow-up and individualized responses involving either effecting or attempting to effect transactions in securities, or the rendering of personalized investment advice for compensation, will not be made to persons in states where Aimee Cogan is not registered or excluded or exempt from registration. © 2013 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 649864 [05/13]
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WHAT DRIVES YOUR
Financial Decision-Making? Financial advisor Rick Helbing uses Behavior DNA to understand his clients, who are mostly doctors, dentists and family business owners By Sue Cullen | Photos by Herb Booth Thirty years in wealth and business management have
experience, most people start below the planning horizon with
taught Rick Helbing of Suncoast Advisory Group that even the
strategies, tactics and tools, rather than starting above the hori-
most brilliantly conceived and executed financial planning can
zon with a client’s vision, mission, values and goals. As import-
be derailed by natural behavioral reflexes in times of stress.
ant as the numbers are, we get to know you through an exten-
Navigating the economic ups and downs with his clients,
sive discovery process before we get to know your numbers.”
Helbing has learned that a key factor in managing their finan-
Demonstrating his belief in his tagline, “Understanding
cial and lifestyle goals is to truly get to know them and what
People Before the Numbers,” Helbing uses four DNA Behavior
drives their financial decision-making.
profiles to understand, and better serve, his clients’ needs. “My
He begins by delving into each client’s Behavior DNA to
goal is to understand clients’ behavioral styles, what drives
understand how he can craft personalized plans that help them
their decisions, and how to communicate with them on their
stay the course in pursuit of their goals. He also provides cli-
terms so we can build trust and a deeper relationship more
ents with sophisticated tools to track their progress toward im-
quickly,” Helbing says. “This insight can help clients consis-
plementing that plan daily with state-of-the-art technology that
tently follow a pattern of informed decision-making regarding
puts their entire financial picture at their fingertips.
their financial future. It helps with making decisions in all areas
“I want to create a ‘wow’ experience for my clients. To
of their lives, and clients love it.”
do that I need to get inside their hearts, minds and souls to
The Communications DNA profile lets Helbing know an in-
find out what they want from life, which is why the Behavior
dividual client’s preferred communication style. For instance, it
DNA profiles are so important,” Helbing says. “I’m not trying
tells him whether the person wants to delve into the details or
to be a psychologist; I just want clients to understand their
have a big-picture view with a focus on actions and outcomes.
own natural behaviors in order to make the best decisions for themselves and their futures.”
The Quality Life Performance profile looks at those things that influence a satisfying life, such as life purpose, career,
Unlike other advisors, Helbing also offers an array of busi-
health and community relationships. Helbing considers this a
ness services to serve his clients, who typically are physicians,
crucial dimension. “When I mentioned to a client that his career
dentists and family business owners. His approach has proven
satisfaction seemed extremely low, he confided in me he was
effective, earning Helbing recognition as one of the nation’s
totally unhappy with the future of the business. We discussed
150 Best Financial Advisors for Doctors by Medical Economics
revising the business plan to assist in changing several process-
magazine every year since 2009.*
es that would enhance efficiency and employee retention. The
“With new clients, I start with explaining our Planning Horizon philosophy,” says Helbing, who is a Chartered Financial Consultant and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™. “In my ®
Quality of Life profile is extremely important. Everything in life is about balance. It provides for eye-opening discussions.” Two of the DNA Behavior tools are specifically directed to
*Award based on credentials, educational background, experience, size of the firm, minimum portfolio requirements and noteworthy professional achievements. See www.medicaleconomics.com scenesarasota.com
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“My goal is to understand clients’ behavioral styles, what drives their decisions, and how to communicate with them on their terms so we can build trust and a deeper relationship more quickly. This insight can help clients consistently follow a pattern of informed decision-making regarding their financial future.”
finances. Financial DNA addresses inherent life and financial motivations and Financial Personality assesses propensity for risk and financial behavior. Having this information provides additional insight into what clients truly want and their actual risk tolerance versus their propensity to take risks, which are two different things according to researchers. More than one-fifth of the population has a greater inclination to take risks than their ability to live with the consequences that result, Helbing says. “An example may be someone who says they want to go skydiving. That is their propensity for risk,” he says, “but will they actually jump out of the plane? That is their true risk tolerance.” This critical difference was starkly demonstrated during the financial crisis of 2008 when some investors sharply pulled back from the market, reverting to cash. Many of those same investors who sold when the market was low have been slow getting back in, so they have not benefitted as much from the upside of the cycle, Helbing says. “The Financial DNA profiles allow us to have a discussion regarding the why of their decision-making behavior, which could possibly avert an unfortunate situation like this,” he says, “and it also allows me to design portfolios that seek to keep them out of harm’s way.” Likewise, for clients with the inclination toward impulsive, risk-taking behavior, Helbing says understanding their Financial DNA helps them avoid rushing into decisions. “Just because they like skiing in Colorado, they’re not going to jump into buying a condo there without allowing me run the numbers and explore with them what actual benefit they will get by owning one.” Using the four profiles, individuals fall into one of 10 behavior styles, each with a distinctive relationship to money. For instance, Influencers and Strategists have similarities, as both are goal-oriented and likely to take some risks with their money. However, Influencers tend to be more flamboyant, spending money to raise their profiles and connect to people for fun and lifetime experiences. On the other hand, Strategists tend to be savers who may be so con-
Rick Helbing & Caroline Liljencrantz, Client Services Assistant and Administrative Coordinator
cerned about ensuring their financial future that they live more modestly than necessary. Conducting DNA Behavior profiles for couples has resulted in more than a few “aha moments,” Helbing says. “We view spouses’ core life drivers on the same page via a matrix that summarizes their struggles and strengths,” he says. “If they are having issues, it will show up right there. It gives them the understanding and the basis for discussions that move beyond those issues.” The profiles were developed by Hugh Massie, a behavior strategist who founded DNA Behavior International, and they have been validated through independent researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology. “It is a common sense way of getting to know and getting down deep with your clients
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to understand them and help them with an enhanced quality of life by successfully integrating finances into a balanced lifestyle,” Helbing says. “It’s so beneficial, I don’t know why every business owner and every financial advisor doesn’t do this.” In the
Discover Your
process, clients get to know Helbing better as well since he shares his own DNA behavior profiles with them. Once he has an understanding of his client, Helbing focuses on crafting a financial plan encompassing business management strategies, tax planning, wealth accumulation and estate planning. “We actually do write a plan, not just promise to write one, and we want it to be something that does more than gather dust on a bookshelf,” he says. “That’s why we provide clients Suncoast Virtual Planner, which gives them a highly-secure family financial website that monitors and updates their current financial condition.”
Your Financial DNA is at the core of life and financial decision-making. It drives how you uniquely respond to life and financial events. Research and experience show that the best means of cre-
Clients can track cash flow and spending, retrieve tax information, and access an
ating lasting wealth is to under-
article library, as well as review assets, liabilities and the performance of any equities,
stand yourself, and then tailor a
bonds or other products with Suncoast Advisory Group and other entities through
financial strategy suited to your
which clients hold investments. Other professionals, such as attorneys and accoun-
complete financial personality.
tants, also may be given access to update or add information if clients approve. Copies of key documents such as drivers’ licenses and passports also may be stored
Are you more likely to be:
there, which has proven very helpful. “One client misplaced some personal documents
1) Action-oriented, peopleoriented, stability-oriented or task-oriented?
while traveling and was able to download the necessary information from the encrypted vault,” Helbing says. “He felt very relieved to have a copy of his documents at his fingertips.” Helbing adds that families can have confidence in the security of the system, which has multiple security features and is not a transactional financial website. In addition to personal financial planning, Helbing also uses his past business experience working in marketing for Pabst Brewery and Mobil Chemical to help his clients’ businesses thrive. Helbing uses that business and marketing expertise for strategic planning, business valuation, transferring businesses to the next generation or new owners, choosing a business entity, developing operational and financial indicators/ measures, shareholder and employment contracts, compensation strategy, and new partner buy-in and buy-out. “I actually will help clients outline goals and objectives for the business and write business plans for pursuing them,” he says. Helbing says he learned early on the importance of goal-setting when he had a rough start in college. “I found that the key to getting what you want in life is to have goals, and those need to be written down and broken out into sub-goals and objectives,” he adds. “Once those are achieved, then you set new goals that will continue to get you where you want to go
2) Skeptical or trusting? 3) Results-driven, emotional, relationship-driven or steady? 4) Take charge, outgoing, patient or a planner? Learn if your behavioral profile is a Strategist, Initiator, Influencer, Engager, Community Builder, Relationship Builder, Facilitator, Adapter, Stylish Thinker or Reflective Thinker...and what that means to you.
in business and in life.” Whether helping with business or personal planning, Helbing says the key ingre-
To begin your assessment, start
dient boils down to communication, which is why he keeps a relatively small clien-
with Communication DNA. Log
tele. “I want to be in continuous contact with my clients, starting with meetings four
onto suncoastadvisorygroup.com,
times a year to review plans and progress,” he says. “We’re also in constant touch
click on the Communication DNA
by email and phone. My clients have all my numbers. I answer my own phone, and
icon and complete the profile. You
clients like that. I’m available to them 24/7, even when I’m on vacation.”
will receive an email with the results.
Helbing also reaches out through videos and postings on his blog, offering informed commentary on the economy and personal finance, as well as a wide range of business advice. He also reaches out to clients through an Advisor Impact Survey every two years to ensure he understands what clients think of the work he does for them and that he is delivering what they want. Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Suncoast Advisory Group, a registered investment advisor and separate entity from LPL Financial. scenesarasota.com
suncoastadvisorygroup.com 941-375-7320 March 2014
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Y M C A F O U N D AT I O N O F S A R A S O TA GOING FOR THE GOLD
Join our voyage of the senses through exotic India for a sublime evening of color and spice.
SATURDAY, MAY 3, 2014 Frank G. Berlin, SR. Branch • 1075 South Euclid Avenue, Sarasota • Co-Chairs Merrill Bonder & Pat Martin Indian-American inspired Cuisine by Michael’s on East • Brief Live Auction Late Night Dancing to the Sights and Sounds of Bollywood • Theme Attire or Black Tie For Patron & Program Advertising Opportunities visit www.thesarasotay.org or call 941.951.1336 x. 6 Facebook.com/thesarasotay
Matthew
OTTO
CFP®, Senior VP, Private Financial Advisor
Now a successful private financial advisor with SunTrust Investment Services, Inc., Matt’s career began back almost two decades ago with A.G Edwards. Today he focuses on comprehensive asset management for high net worth investors.
“We define wealth management vis-à-vis a unique formula: Investment Consulting + Advanced Planning + Relationship Management,” Matt said. “Of the 450,000 people that call themselves wealth managers, only about four percent apply the advanced planning component — which is the component that adds tremendous value and that we take a great deal of pride in offering.” Matt added advanced planning could be further sub-divided to include tax mitigation, cash flow planning, wealth transfer, philanthropy, and asset protection. With regard to relationship management, The Otto Group incorporates a professional network firmly in place consisting of tax, legal, and insurance professionals that effectively collaborate optimal planning for the clients benefit.
SunTrust Investment Services, Inc. 1777 Main St., 7th Floor Sarasota, FL 34236 941.951.3052 matthew.otto@suntrust.com suntrust.com Investment and Insurance Products: •Are not FDIC or any other Government Agency Insured• Are not Bank Guaranteed •May Lose Value Securities, insurance (including annuities) and other investment products and services are offered by SunTrust Investment Services, Inc., an SEC registered investment adviser and brokerdealer affiliate of SunTrust Banks, Inc., member FINRA, SIPC, and a licensed insurance agency.
“What sets us apart from others in our profession is we actually do case studies with our professional network,” Matt said. “We’ll ask them where is there something missing in our client’s financial profile?” As the U.S. emerges from the effects of the recent economic downturn, Matt said the country is still in the midst of deleveraging, which occurs after a debt supercycle. “The government has helped the system through quantitative easing and financial repression,” he said. “That means purchasing our own debt and artificially holding interest rates low. So you get this sort of cattle prodder that encourages people to take risk. Perhaps more risk than they should. Part of our job is to reverse engineer cash flow needs and financial goals to arrive at an optimal risk reward investment policy.” Matt believes that earning a client’s trust is the greatest compliment he can receive in his work. “Risk is what is left over when you think you’ve thought of everything. We want to keep thinking and adapt to the ever-changing landscape. We want to add value and continue to earn that trust.”
THE MAGIC BEHIND THE
How One Company is Bringing a Technology “Evolucion” to Sarasota By Jacqueline Miller
Evolucia’s in-house testing facility
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Evolucia CEO and Chairman of the Board
in Sarasota – and all you have to do to find it is to look
Mel Interiano
up at the lights. Tucked away just off the University Parkway exit from I-75 in the Lakewood Ranch office park is the headquarters of a company called Evolucia, and after years of practicing their conjuring skills, they have whipped up a spell called LED, and the light it shines may well change the way light is brought to the world. Of course, we all know what LED is, because it’s in our TVs and light bulbs, right? Well, Evolucia’s LED light fixtures radiate over the Ringling Bridge, but there is a greater difference in the glow over the passing cars than a cool acronym and a brighter light. Based on the science that came before it, LED is as good as magic. The acronym LED stands for Light Emitting Diode, which is nothing more than a semiconductor that emits light when an electric current is pushed through it. The magical part is that it requires far less energy than incandescent bulbs and the good ones last for more than a decade. For your home, not having to replace a light bulb for 10 years is a matter of convenience and results in moderate savings. But for large buildings, restaurants, stadiums, cities with thousands of street lights and other large campuses, the massive savings on energy and maintenance represent a fundamental change in the way they bring light to people – not unlike the difference
W
between a candle and a bonfire. indsor McKay wasn’t a magician, but 100 years
That’s the space Evolucia plays in, and after a rough haul
ago, his colleagues thought he was. McKay, the
over the last two years, the company is now fueled by multiple
cartoonist who drew the newspaper strip Little
high marks from the U.S. Department of Energy and a new
Nemo in Dreamland, was on his way to dinner
patent (to add to its list) that is arguably a game changer for
with his colleagues when their car had a flat right outside the
them and the industry.
New York Museum of Natural History. Upon seeing the giant
Central to Evolucia’s product line is its patented Aimed
dinosaur skeleton on display in the main hall, he bet his dinner
Optics™ LED technology. Aimed Optics products have earned
companions a meal that he could make that fossil walk again.
awards from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and The
Even in 1914, a free dinner was currency enough to secure
Independent Engineering Society for performance and efficiency.
the wager. Six months and 10,000 drawings later, McKay
Recently, Aimed Optics technology earned the best marks for
presented his friends with Gertie the Dinosaur, the first hand-
energy efficiency from the DOE’s exhaustive 18-month-long
drawn animated film. His friends thought McKay’s work was
Kansas City Gateway test. Most importantly, Aimed Optics was
magical, and a good enough trick to earn him dinner. Today,
recently awarded a full patent by the U.S. government, completing
you might want to ask Disney CEO Bob Iger how much that
Evolucia’s case for its technology. The DOE tests and awards have
trick – the development of animation technology – should
demonstrated the concept’s energy efficiency as among the best
have been worth.
in the industry, and the patent makes it clear that Evolucia owns
Over the last century, other magicians of even greater powers have staked their claims to history – Edison, Bell, Cray, Cerf, Jobs – and with each passing generation, we have become blind to their magic, even when it’s right before our eyes. But there is magic taking place again, and it’s right here scenesarasota.com
that tech outright. But that’s not the ball game, yet, according to company CEO and Chairman of the Board Mel Interiano. “We’re not going to make predictions or start telling people we are going to take over the world,” Interiano said. “Instead, we’re going to focus on maximizing our assets and using what we have March 2014
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“ Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic.”
– Arthur C. Clarke
to make our case to the marketplace. Technology has become
combined managerial experience in technology and lighting.
so prevalent and complex, that the people behind it sound more
If our tech is the engine that drives the company, our people
like snake oil salesman than scientists, making claims that are
are the fuel that propels it.”
difficult to argue either way. It’s become a game of who can shout
One key team member is Dr. Asiri Jayawardena, who
the loudest, but our team’s strategy moving forward is to put our
is in charge of Evolucia’s research and development lab.
solutions in the field and let them do the talking for us.”
Jayawardena is only the fourth candidate worldwide to earn
In February, the company officially opened its new 61,000
a Ph.D. in lighting from the renowned Rensselaer Polytechnic
square-foot world headquarters in Lakewood Ranch, revealing
Institute. Besides “Dr. J” as he is called, the lab’s main stars
in an Open House for investors and community leaders a lean
are a gigantic goniophotometer housed in a cavernous, light-
manufacturing facility, in-house research and development,
damping matte black space to measure light distribution and
testing labs, warehouse and shipping facility. But the company
efficacy, and an Integrating Sphere that determines the total
isn’t done yet. On Earth Day, April 22 of this year, the company
output of visible light.
plans to show off a more comprehensive facility with classrooms
Rounding out Interiano’s team are Scott Nickerson with 35 years
for training and a concept showroom to highlight the company’s
in the electronics industry, who directs global manufacturing and
award-winning technology. The space was made possible
quality control; Paul Montesino, who joined Evolucia to handle
in part by Fred Starling of the Starling Group, owner of the
business development, product development and marketing
Lakewood Ranch office park. Starling is not only the company’s
following 17 years with Phillips Lighting and Osram Sylvania;
landlord, but also an investor. As a result of that relationship, he
and Richard Racey who brings 25 years of lighting industry sales
granted a lease with very favorable terms for the first 18 months
experience, most recently with Hubbell Lighting.
to help give the company a competitive advantage. But patents, awards and a new facility aren’t the only assets Evolucia enjoys. “A company is not a building or a logo or a brand – at
“I look around the office and I think that these guys could be working anywhere, but they’re working here because they see the value of what we have assembled, and they are committed to fulfilling its promise,” Interiano said.
its essence, it is a group of people gathered together for a
Interiano joined Evolucia after years of experience with Osram
singular purpose,” Interiano said. “Working under our roof is
Sylvania and earning a green belt in Six Sigma tools for continuous
a team of professionals who represent some of the best our
process improvement in manufacturing. Those experiences
industry has to offer, from operations to engineering to testing
enabled him to help design the rectangular space in the new
and sales. Our senior team represents more than a century of
headquarters facility that is optimal for lean manufacturing.
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VP of Sales Rick Racey, CEO and Chairman of the Board Mel Interiano & Dr. Asiri Jayawardena review a new technology in development by Evolucia.
But his tenure at Evolucia has not been without its share of
toward the end of that journey, the market has caught up, as well.
difficulties, and Interiano is not shy about recognizing what he
Prices for large implementations are now at the right level for cities
calls the elephant in the room.
and companies to make the investment necessary to transition to
“When I got here two years ago, it became apparent that we would have to literally reinvent the company from the ground up in order to get back on a competitive footing,” he said. “The company
LED lighting, because they won’t wait as long to see a return on that investment as they would have two years ago.” Independent
studies
back
Interiano’s
reasoning,
too.
at the time was offering products that were almost obsolete, cost way
McKinsey & Company estimates LED market penetration will see
too much to make because we were using contract manufacturing
a 20 percent compound annual growth rate, bringing its market
and our delivery times from purchase order to installation were
share to 64 percent of the $115 billion global market in 2020.
lagging in the 12-16 week timeframe. It was a mess.”
“At the U.S. Conference of Mayors in January, it was clear a top
In the last two years, the company has implemented new
priority for cities is to find ways to save energy, and they identified
product designs, cut most of its product lines cost in half while
LED street and building lighting as low hanging fruit,” he said.
increasing margins and reducing delivery time to 4 to 6 weeks.
“About 30 percent of our cities are making the LED transition a top
“I had a head full of steam when I came on board and thought
priority over the next two years, and 82 percent of mayors believe
we could turn things around faster than we did,” he said. “Has it
that LED lighting holds the most promise for reducing municipal
taken longer than we wanted? Yes. Did the delays make us and our
energy costs. And I have to say I like the timing of them figuring
investors a little anxious? Absolutely. But as we have finally gotten
that out at the same time we can offer what they want.”
EVOLUCIA INC. IS LOCATED AT 7040 PROFESSIONAL PARKWAY EAST, SARASOTA, FL 34240. 941.751.6800 MARKET GROUP: OTCQB STOCK TICKER SYMBOL: iLED scenesarasota.com
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A CAPITAL Idea By Sue Cullen
Chris Cogan’s entrepreneurial expertise is widely recognized
Like most venture capital firms, Seven Holdings will manage
across Florida, and now he is launching an initiative to bring
venture capital funds, having launched its first fund with $13 mil-
much-needed venture capital here. Cogan has teamed with veteran
lion in committed capital and a target of $50 to $70 million. That
financiers Russell Vernon and Ross Barrett, and their new firm is
fund is focused on Health and Life Science opportunities across
getting started by helping one of Sarasota’s most prized institutions.
Florida and the Southeast but Seven has plans to launch other
The three men formed Sarasota-based Seven Holdings when
funds as well, he said.
Cogan joined their firm, BVM Capital, in 2013. The vision behind
“In addition to managing our venture capital funds, Seven
the new partnership was to emulate the business model of suc-
Holdings has its own capital to invest,” Cogan says. “The firm can
cessful firms such as Carlyle and Warburg Pincus where Vernon
make majority investments in promising companies where man-
previously served as head of investment operations, Cogan said.
agement feels their domain and operational expertise can shorten
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the growth curve and produce superior returns.” The first such project involves a venture with Mote Marine Laboratories.
vision can now be fully realized,” Vernon said. Vernon has partnered in successful ventures with Louisiana
Seven Holdings is making a majority investment in Mote Envi-
State University and the Pennington Biomedical Research Institute,
ronmental Services, Inc. (MESI), which includes the sturgeon fish
and has been the lead investor in many notable companies, Cogan
and caviar business developed by Mote a decade ago at the Mote
said. Vernon is a West Point graduate with a degree in engineering
Aquaculture Park on Fruitville Road. “What we are providing to
and holds an M.S.S. from the United States Army War College and
Mote is professional venture capital which brings much more to
an M.B.A. from Columbia University School of Business. During his
the table than just money,” Cogan says. Seven’s investors and ad-
career, he has held executive positions with large investment firms,
visors include an impressive list of successful business leaders and
including Warburg Pincus, and Commerce Capital Markets.
investment professionals responsible for major global corporations across a wide range of industry sectors, he added.
Cogan started his first business at age 18, and sold it six years later to a public utility. That was just the beginning. Over the
Under the agreement with Mote, Seven Holdings will further
years, he built more than half a dozen companies before starting
commercialize and market MESI’s farm raised Sturgeon filets and
his own boutique private equity firm in 2001, which delivered
the caviar whose reputation has grown with specialty food retailers
excellent returns to investors. Cogan is a graduate of Rollins Col-
and restaurateurs, Cogan said. Mote’s Center for Aquaculture Re-
lege Crummer Graduate School of Business and has raised more
search & Development will remain an active partner and will con-
than $100 million in private equity from sources that included
tinue to build on the groundbreaking advancements it has made in
Credit Suisse, General Electric, Marriott and Safeguard Scientif-
developing safe and environmentally sustainable aquaculture prac-
ics. For some time, his goal has been to launch a venture capital
tices. These leading edge practices are designed to conserve water
fund, but he has been waiting for the right timing. “A couple of
and take pressure off of overfished species. Cogan said Seven Hold-
years ago, I met Russ Vernon, who is a seasoned venture capi-
ings is exploring ways to refine and standardize these best practices
tal professional with a strong background in investing,” he said.
across the global farm-raised fish industry.
“Russ and I have a lot of commonalities. We compared notes
“Our intent is to take that business out of the lab/research in-
about what we wanted to do and decided to form a new venture
stitution environment and make it more commercially viable and
capital entity based in Sarasota, which is how Seven Holdings
competitive. Together with Mote, we’re evaluating opportunities
came about.”
to expand the Mote brand across other species of fish and further
The venture with Mote is an opportunity for the firm to show-
capitalize on their best practices and advancements in sustainable
case its marketing prowess with a premium product like the cav-
aquaculture,” Cogan said.
iar and Sturgeon filets, and to commercialize MESI’s existing and
“Instead of using Mote’s financial resources, it now can have
emerging environmentally-sound aquaculture systems, which
real income from this,” according to Vernon. “On a much smaller
have reduced the industry-average amount of new water used
scale, this could be to Mote what Gatorade is to the University
daily from 40 percent to just 15 percent, Cogan said. It also is
of Florida.” Gatorade was developed by University of Florida re-
finding ways to use wastewater and solid fish waste from the
searchers in the 1960s, and the university has earned royalties
operation to grow vegetables and wetlands plants for habitat res-
for many years from the sports drink, which now is owned and
toration projects.
marketed by PepsiCo.
“The aquaculture park is 200 acres, and right now only about
To date, most of the sales of Mote caviar has been through
ten of those are being used. We have the ability to expand size-
the volunteer efforts of board members, and this grass roots-type
wise and across fish species as well as into other areas of sustain-
effort coupled with the caviar’s exceptional taste and silkiness has
able food development” Cogan said. “Our efforts will grow sales,
built its reputation as a very premium product. It earned rave re-
commercialize new discoveries, and develop a steady revenue
views during a Celebrity Chefs Tour dinner at Darwin’s on Fourth
stream from which Mote can benefit. We see tremendous poten-
in December, Cogan said. The caviar also is on the menu of the
tial here with Mote, and there are many other life science and
fabled Napa Valley Restaurant, The French Laundry, the Ritz
research institutions, universities, hospitals, and promising com-
Carlton, and many local restaurants offering fine dining. It also is
panies creating exciting new technologies and science that we can
sold at retail in Whole Foods, Williams-Sonoma, Morton’s Mar-
bring into the mainstream.”
ket, Balducci’s, and Costco. “When we apply sound commercial practices and marketing expertise and resources, Mote’s original
scenesarasota.com
For more information on SEVEN Funds call 941.366.7770, or visit sevenfunds.com
March 2014
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AJC W EST COAST FLORI DA
2014 Spring Award Dinner HUM A N R EL AT I O N S AWA R D
David Harris AJC Executive Director, Edward and Sandra Meyer Office of the Executive Director L EG ACY OF L EA D E R S H I P AWA R D
Gerri Aaron AJC Regional Vice President D INNER CHAIRS : Larry & Debbie Haspel
Matt & Lisa Walsh
HONORARY D IN N E R CH A I R: Bea Friedman
MO NDAY , MA R CH 17: 6: 0 0 PM Michael’s On East, Sarasota, Florida SPONSORSHIP IN FORM A T I ON Brian Lipton: liptonb@ajc.org
or 941.365.4955
www.ajc.org
Scene Magazine ad.indd 1
1/24/14 10:51 AM
SARASOTA MARCH 29 PAYNE PARK
8:30 am - Event Festivities Begin 9:45 am - Opening Ceremonies 10:00 am - 3K Walk Kick-Off 11:30 am - Raffle Drawing 12:00 pm - Event Wrap-Up
FUN! FOOD! RAFFLE! SHOPPING! MUSIC! Two and four-legged supporters are invited to walk with us. Help us create and nurture a partnership between a visually impaired individual and a guide dog.
Sign up at
GuideDogsWalkathon.org
ONE PLACE. SEVENTEEN AGENCIES.
ONE PURPOSE. For more than 23 years, the Glasser/Schoenbaum Human Services Center has been a place for low-income and at-risk individuals, families and children to find help when they need it most. Each dollar received serves a wide array of human service agencies who in turn help improve the lives of approximately 10,000 underserved community members per month.
Please call or visit our website to learn more about how you can help make a difference.
1750 17TH STREET, SARASOTA FL 34234 941.365.4545 • www.gs-humanservices.org Jay Berman, Executive Director jberman@gs-humanservices.org
Charting a Course FOR YOUR
Financial Future The Money Plan by Steven J. Lee Story & Photo by Jake Hartvigsen
I
f you’re like me, you undoubtedly recall that time back in
went on to become a pioneer in the field of venture capital and start-
6th or 7th grade when your math teacher gave a lesson on
ed a fund which was responsible for, among other things, launch-
the magic of compounding interest — the fact that money
ing many Scandinavian companies in the U.S. marketplace. He
grows faster when future interest is earned on the amount of
also co-founded a public company called PolyMedica Corporation,
principal plus previous interest rather than on the principal amount
a biomedical company that with Lee at its helm as Chairman and
alone. As Albert Einstein once said, “Compound interest is the eighth
CEO and with actor Wilford Brimley as its spokesperson became the
wonder of the world. He who understands it, earns it. And he who
world’s largest mail order supplier of items for senior diabetic pa-
doesn’t, pays it. “
tients. The company, with more than 600,000 customers, was sold
While the compound interest concept was important at the time,
in 2007 to healthcare giant Medco Health Solutions for $1.5 billion.
at least if you wanted to pass your math test, the notion may have
Yet, despite what on the surface appears to be a lifetime asso-
become a little quaint-seeming as we entered adulthood. After all,
ciated with risk, the real secret to his success, Lee claims, lies in
modern technology has made it passé for most people to even bal-
having adhered to a few basic principles of money management and
ance their checkbooks, while countless get-rich-quick books and
wealth accumulation. It is those principles and a step-by-step plan
online trading programs like Charles Schwab and E-trade promise
for achieving financial independence that Lee lays out in The Money
that we all can become millionaires just by investing in real estate or
Plan which he wrote to teach his adult children money management.
playing the stock market.
“The Money Plan is all about plotting out where you want to be
Yet, if you’re also like me, you’ve seen the consequences of such
at points in the future,” Lee says, “and most people won’t get there
speculation in the form of upside-down mortgages, as well as fluc-
by playing the volatility of the stock market. Sure, there will always
tuating portfolios and 401-K plans that lead us one moment into
be the guy who makes millions of dollars because he got lucky with
euphoria and the next wondering whether we will ever be able to
a toss of the coin, but you need to ignore that kind of stuff. The
afford retirement.
important thing is to look for the safe, consistent and secure return.
So where is the answer that can help put us back on a sound
Compound your winnings.”
financial footing? According to entrepreneur and financial consultant
As you may have guessed from the above, Lee is not a big believ-
Steven J. Lee, author of The Money Plan, the answer may lie in re-
er in reliance on the stock market, at least when it comes to building
turning to those core principles we learned so long ago about com-
the foundation for a successful, long-term wealth strategy. While he
pound interest, the value of saving and having a clear understanding
admits that he owns stocks and ETFs, and that they can be part of a
of our current and future goals.
healthy overall portfolio if managed correctly, he prefers to heavily
Lee, who these days resides in a home on Casey Key, knows a
weight toward income investments (e.g., municipal bonds, corpo-
thing or two about accumulating wealth. Despite humble beginnings
rate bonds, dividend stocks, rental income), which he says offer a
in Tuckahoe, New York, (picture the row houses on Maude) with a
steadier cash flow and equivalent rate of return without the same
father who drove a coal truck, Lee worked his way through 11 years
level of volatility.
of college and graduated cum laude from Lehigh University, earned
Returning to steady portfolio growth, he uses the theoretical ex-
a MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
ample of two investors, each of whom has a $100 nest egg to invest,
and a JD from Fordham Law School.
to demonstrate his point. Investor A puts $100 into the stock market
After starting his career in corporate finance on Wall Street, he scenesarasota.com
and sees his investment grow by 20 percent in year one. The folMarch 2014
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lowing year, however, the market loses 20 percent. Not only has the investor failed to break even, he has actually lost 4percent, plus the rate of inflation (year one: $100 + 20 percent = $120, year two: $120 – 20 percent = $96). Investor B, on the other hand, invests her $100 in bonds that pay income and grow at a modest but steady rate of 8 percent per year (including coupon income plus appreciation if interest rates drop). At the end of year two, Investor B now has $116.64, or a return of nearly 17 percent over the same two-year period, where Investor A lost ground. The example illustrates three of the core principles of The Money Plan. The first is to take a safe and secure approach to managing your money. The second is to consistently increase your nest egg and your available cash flow, and the third is to adopt a careful and educated approach to investing. “Many people neglect cash flow, and that’s why they get into trouble,” says Lee. “But if you have a habit to save, then your cash flow is going to constantly increase outside of your salary. That’s your security, and you need to protect it at all costs.” In order to accomplish such cash flow, Lee recommends putting aside between 20 percent – 50 percent of your annual income so that it can be placed back into secure investments. “It can be done,” Lee says. “My family did it. Just pretend your salary is lower than it is and budget to the lesser amount. Invest the rest. If those numbers are too high
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for you, then at least save 10 percent.” In addition to these core principles, Lee has what he calls the Fifteen Commandments of Making Money, which include everything from warnings about avoiding high interest credit card debt and the undue influence of the media to maintaining a proper perspective on the role and influence of money in your life. Among the nuggets he shares are items like, “Thou shalt not worship thy investment advisor, for if she were so smart she would be retired by now.” And “At life’s end, thy money shall not accompany thou onward.” Still, when you get beyond the pithy maxims and commandments, what lies at the heart of The Money Plan is just that, a plan. And central to it are two budgets. The Ham and Egg Budget contains all of the expenses you have on a current basis in the upcoming year. The Whipped Cream and Cherry Budget features those things you want to accomplish in the future, whether they be affording to send your kids to college or buying that dream house on the Gulf of Mexico. Bringing the two together is your Net Worth Statement, an annual report card on how you’re doing. “If at the end of the year, you’re doing
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worse than you were at the beginning, then there are things you need to adjust,” says Lee. “You have to be consistent to reap the benefits of the miracle of compounding.” While younger investors will undoubtedly reap the greatest benefits from Lee’s The Money Plan, he says the principles that underlie it are as applicable to those who have just graduated from college as they are to those approaching retirement. “The mathematics behind The Money Plan apply regardless of what age you start at,” Lee says. “Will compounding interest help someone who starts saving and investing at age 62 and wants to retire at 65? Probably not. But even in your 40s or early 50s, it’s never too late to start a savings, investment, budget plan which compounds your money, and stops you from taking unnecessary risks.” For more information on Steven Lee’s The Money Plan, visit www.themoneyplanbook.com or write to P.O. Box 1077, Osprey, FL, 34229. scenesarasota.com
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Café L’Europe THE BEST OF THE OLD AND NEW By Steven J. Smith
Ask Betsie Coolidge what she likes best about Café L’Europe, the St. Armand’s Circle restaurant she owns, and her answer falls somewhere between its remarkable history and its promising future. “The front portion of the restaurant was formerly John Ringling’s real estate office when he was developing St. Armands Circle,” Betsie said. “In fact, the original bridge from Sarasota to St. Armands Key was built with the help of elephants from his circus who carried much of the wood that went into its construction.” The building underwent several incarnations after Ringling’s day and was an Italian restaurant called Columbi’s when Titus Letschert and his partner Norbert Goldner took it over in 1973. A native of Holland, Titus opened Café L’Europe following successful ventures as assistant general manager at Bill Paley’s Ground Floor Restaurant and co-manager of the Sign of the Dove restaurant and Yellow Finger discotheque, all in New York City. Titus married Betsie in 1995. “I met Titus at my bridal shower, which was held here at the restaurant,” she remembered. “That marriage didn’t work out, but Titus and I started dating in 1978 and eventually married in ’95. I became involved in the business during the ‘90s. I learned the restaurant business through osmosis. With my business background, I started out as a bookkeeper then got into the advertising side of things.” Although the two later separated, they remained amicable until Titus lost his battle with cancer in 2011. Betsie enjoyed working at Café L’Europe and found her niche in gala events held at the restaurant, primarily on New Year’s Eve, which would feature imaginative creations such as frozen Stoli bottles pouring chilled vodka over sorbet, and tureens topped with en croute – delicious, puffy dough that is baked over the soup. Touches such as these have become signatures of Café L’ Europe’s culinary expertise and Betsie strives to keep coming up with them — along with periodic makeovers to the premises and its brand. scenesarasota.com
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“We changed our logo last year back to the original logo,” she
“That’s a great addition and I think it will grow a new genera-
said. “And we’ve given the place an extensive facelift. I had
tion of customers for us.”
an interior decorator come in and they put in a giant antique mirror as you walk in the front lobby. They also imposed on it a full-length picture of John Ringling. I had a picture of Titus
If all of that isn’t enough, Café L’Europe has also enhanced its peerless catering operation.
riding an elephant, which we placed on another mirror. We’ve
“I brought Mara Routh in, who has worked for us in the past,”
got a lot more flowers, plants, and mirrors — and ironworks in
Betsie said. “She takes care of all of our banquets in house,
front of the mirrors, which gives the place another dimension.”
and off-premises catering, which we are bringing back again.
She added a fireplace to the main dining room as well, and clocks from all over the world adorn the walls in the bar area, which has now been informally dubbed “The International Lounge.” The place is also beautifully lit, giving it a warmth and ambiance that further enhance the dining experience. “We’ve also started late night activities on the weekends,” Betsie said. “We have music four nights a week. Wednesdays and Thursdays we have a pianist and flautist duo playing background music from 6:30-9:30 p.m. They give the place a supper club kind of feel.”
We did a Downton Abbey dinner recently, featuring two long tables that really looked like the Crawley mansion. You felt as if you were actually going into the Crawleys’ living room. Mara brought in all of her old silver, so the place settings were done beautifully. And the decorator brought in magnificent candelabras. We also hired a piano player, a bagpipe player, and an opera singer, and you really felt you were back in that period.” She added the type of catering Café L’Europe strives to offer is what she called “boutique catering,” which a very custom-designed, specific kind of affair — individualized to the customer’s own tastes and desires.
On Fridays and Saturdays the restaurant features the 431 Café, aimed at the younger crowd, when the restaurant stays open until 1 a.m. “Music combos come in and we have dancing,” Betsie said.
“We want our diners and catering customers not only feeling they’ve had a great meal with us,” Betsie said. “We want them to feel as if they’ve entered another world.”
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Scenes from an Interview:
Steve Wilberding
by Gus Mollasis
He’s good with money. In fact, he’s very good with money. And because he is, people, heck entire countries have trusted him to manage their money. Wealth, creating it and managing it, is in his roots. He comes from one of the oldest families in New York, boasting an ancestor who helped create the actual wall that gave Wall Street its iconic name. And while many may say the streets of America are paved with gold, Steve Wildberding knows better, because he’s always had to develop a golden plan not only for his money, but for others. A man who has traveled the world as extensively as he has, sees the world with a different set of eyes. Thrust into service during the Vietnam War with a nudge by his father, he made the best of it by volunteering for everything he could, while proudly serving his country. His dedication earned him the respect of his men and a drawer full of decorations and medals for his honor and valor that are more valuable to him than gold. Recently, I sat down with Steve Wilberding on a sunny Sunday morning in his Casey Key home amidst the waves crashing the shore as we took a look at some of the scenes from an interview of his life. Where were you born?
Please share the interesting circumstances about your
Mount Kisco, New York about 35 miles north of New York
service during the Vietnam War for which you received 13
City in Westchester County. The town was named after an
awards and decorations including several for valor.
Indian chief from that area.
That’s a good story. I was studying political science and history at Yale. The summer of my sophomore year I was in
What was your childhood like?
Europe where I met some people who seemed to be able
I was the second of four children and the only boy in the
to change the thinking of committed Communists. That was
family. We were well to do but everybody was not so well to
important because the Communist world was expanding
do in those days. There were still ration cards and things like
and I wanted to know how we could deal with it. I de-
that. My mother, my sister and I walked together to bring my
cided to take a year away from my studies to look into it.
sister to a one room school house two miles over the hill in
I worked with an organization called Moral Re-Armament
the morning and then go get her in the afternoon. Here I was
(MRA), which would later become Up With People. I actu-
a four-year-old toddling along.
ally worked for them for five years with no salary whatsoever. My father felt that the mindbenders had me, that I was in
Tell me about your parents.
a cult. I didn’t feel that way, but he did. He was worried that
They both had a great influence on me. My father was a country
I was following a career that would not lead to prosperity
gentleman. He worked and was not wealthy. He and my mother
with a job that provided no salary. His thinking was simple.
were given four acres of land by her father as a wedding present.
How are you going to survive? He began to press the local
They built their home there and she lived her life within fifty
draft board to draft me and I felt what I was doing was more
yards of that one spot. She was not highly educated, but went
important, so I pressed the local draft board not to draft me.
to art school and was a highly active person in her community.
This culminated in a few years with the both of us meeting
My father was a very intelligent lawyer. We had a comfortable
with General Hershey, who was then the head of Selective
upbringing, but growing up there was never much travel.
Services in Washington. And my father won. I got drafted. I thought okay, I know where I’m going, so I decided to go
What did you want to be when you grew up?
first class. I volunteered for everything and I got it. Airborne;
I really didn’t know. It wasn’t a cowboy or anything like that.
Ranger; Pathfinder; Officer School, and so forth, I wound
I kind of thought it would be nice to save the world, but it’s
up over in Vietnam during the peak period, the Tet Offen-
hard to figure out how to do that.
sive. I was there in 1968 for all of that. When I came back
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in 1969, I ended up training Rangers in the mountains of West Georgia for a year and a half before I got out.
Are you a better person for having served in Vietnam? Certainly for having the discipline the military instilled in me, absolutely. I wish that every young person in this country,
Tell me about your college days and your wanting to return
male and female, had a least one year of national service. It
to Yale after your time in the war.
could be volunteer service to America or it could be work
I attended Yale for two years. Things were winding down in
at the library, but it’s better to get young people out of their
the Army and I knew I had to get out and by then I knew that
environment so they can mix with other classes in terms of
the financial world was the best for me. I wrote to Yale, but
their educational ability, while learning about the country. It
they were still in the anti-war posture and weren’t that enthu-
would help them all by being disciplined in doing something
siastic about me coming back. I went to the CIA, hoping that
that’s giving to other people.
they would send me to some college, thinking that I could be useful, but they only wanted to know what my Ph.D. was in.
When did you first become aware of the importance of money and wealth?
What was the greatest thing you learned from spending time
When I worked for five years for no salary. Probably the low
with Up With People?
point of my life was at Christmas time when I was in Sweden.
It was a great education in terms of absorbing other cultures.
Friends of my parents lived there and I would have dinner
But as I look back at that time now, they were nice, warm,
with the father of that family. He told me that he had a com-
fuzzy-minded people who thought that we’re all the same.
pany pouch that was sent back to the states every week, and
What a crock. We’re not all the same. We have a lot of differ-
that if I wanted, I could send some Christmas presents back to
ent genetic, cultural, and social influences that change people
my family. I thanked him profusely, but I couldn’t tell him that
very significantly. You better read the tea leaves and know
I didn’t have any money. I was 19 years old and had not a cent
what you’re dealing with.
in my pocket. What are you going to do? (Laughs)
You served as an Army Pathfinder for the 101st Airborne Di-
You had a 30-year career at Merrill Lynch as an international
vision in Vietnam. What were those days like?
investment banker. What is the one principle you live by in
He picks a book on his end table called Pathfinder: First In,
making all your decisions regarding banking?
Last Out: A Memoir of Vietnam. I found this book in the Dal-
Basic ethics. Right. Wrong. Sometimes it takes time to know
las, Fort Worth Airport. I thought, “How could that be? The
which is which. You have to lay it on the line with a client and
only Vietnam account…” so I looked in the back of the book
tell them how it is. It’s their decision, not yours.
and there is General Westmoreland’s name mentioned once and then I see my name mentioned a hundred times. The au-
Your career has taken you around the world. You’ve lived in
thor, Richard R. Burns, wrote an account of his experiences.
Japan, England, Russia and India to name a few. What’s the
He was one of my twelve soldiers during our missions and his
one significant characteristic that stands out in your busi-
book accurately describes how it was.
ness dealings in each of those countries? The Japanese are murder to compete against. They’re so tough,
What was the greatest thing that you learned from your time
so nationalist, so xenophobic, so you have to learn how to take
in service?
advantage of every little thing. There is tremendous egotism
It’s actually fairly narrow. There is a tremendous peace in be-
about the Japanese male even though they’re a little bit like
ing wholly committed to a mission.
the American Indians, with regard to their weakness for alcohol. We’d go down to the bar with them to have a rusty water
Should we have gotten involved in Vietnam and how would
(scotch and water). After just two, they’re singing like a canary
you write the chapter in the history books for future
and you’re pretty much able to remember everything. I have a
generations?
lot of respect for the Japanese, but you learn to use any edge
88
Yes. Basically there needs to be a lot of perspective to write
you can. With the Russians, it’s also alcohol-related. When you
that chapter - it’s too much for a short article. In the global
go to a meeting at 8 o’clock in the morning in Russia, you take
perspective of things, the U.S. got mission drift. We forgot
two pats of butter from the restaurant from the night before
what we were all about. Basically we were in South Vietnam
and slide them down your throat to line your esophagus, so
to halt the steady advance of world Communism. In terms
that the vodka you’re going to have to drink goes down with-
of war on the ground, we won it. We kicked their butt every
out being absorbed into the blood and you can still think. It is
time. We lost the will to keep doing it after the Tet Offensive
regarded as unfriendly not to drink, so even at eight o’clock in
in 1968. It set their mission back five years, but for the most
the morning, the vodka is flowing. Regarding England, I have a
part it was very erroneously reported.
great respect for English education. They have the right mixture
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of difficulty, training, discipline and so forth. The headmaster of
oil business, because oil is oil, there was nothing that any
the Ruckleigh School, which is like Eton where proper young
foreign firm would give a second thought to investing in. It
English gentlemen go, was once asked his philosophy of edu-
was all so completely corrupt. Any investment there would
cation. He responded, “I don’t much mind what the boys study
have to be made very cautiously over a long period of time.
as long as it’s difficult and they don’t like it.” I’ve found that if you want the finest trained mind in the world, hire a Brit. If
Is the American Free Enterprise System still the best way to
you want to get something done, get an American. As far as
create wealth and opportunity for most people?
India, it’s a timeless nation. There are many diverse streams.
It’s far better than anybody else, but we’ve gotten off track a
The worst moments of my life in India were Monday morning
little bit. I’m very discouraged with the political process. But it is
staff meetings after I’d spent the weekend in London getting
clear that more investment is needed in the economy. It is clear
away for what we called a mental health break. You had to
that the income disparity that we have now is not healthy and
get out of there or you would go nuts. While English is the
the one most obvious fix is to raise tax funds. Call it progressive,
official language, not very many people speak it well and they
go back to Teddy Roosevelt, truly one of the greatest presidents
all speak it with a different accent. The accent would always
we have ever had. Somehow the gears have to shift and we have
be on the wrong syllable. So you show up at a staff meeting
to think through these problems again and stop this litany of no
and you’re still fuzzy because you got into the airport at one
taxes and Marie Antoinette thinking of “let them eat cake.”
in the morning. There you are trying to stay awake and listen to all these people. There are 53 different recognized national
What is your advice to the college graduate and the young
languages and with different dialects as well. Everyone has a
family starting out in terms of wealth management?
different accent and cadence in the way they talk. Trying to lis-
Make a habit of saving. Use very simple instruments until you
ten to all of them gave me an immediate headache every time.
build a reserve that allows you six months of not having a job.
Standardization of any form would be helpful. I moved there
Depending on your job security and what sort of situation you are
in 1994. Merrill Lynch was the first international firm to get a
in, build up your cash reserve or safety reserve and then start on
license in the domestic stock market.
the capital markets. Start with very simple S&P 500 index funds.
You have been entrusted with managing $150 billion of re-
In terms of a pie chart, divvy up in percentages what a bal-
serves for Saudi Arabia that entails a little bit more than
anced portfolio should look like? For example: 10% savings,
placing those funds in a savings account. Tell me about that
20% stocks, 10% bonds, real estate.
massive responsibility and the pressure you felt managing
You need a cash reserve and even though it’s not going to
that sum of money.
earn any money, a safety reserve first for your basic needs. If
There was a tendency of the Saudis to get resentful and
you are in an industry where you have job mobility, that’s one
question your abilities. You had to have an intellectual
thing, otherwise you want to buy a house as soon as possible.
grounding and the will to stand on your position. You had
If you are a medical technician, you can get a job anywhere
to be able to explain why you were doing it. There were
in Sarasota. Then it’s safe to buy a house. The sooner that you
times when they tried to beat you up about it. They would
can afford to buy safely, the better off you are. Today, as a
question everything.”Why this? Why that? Why did you miss
younger person, you want to be at least 60% in equities with
that?” You had to be able to defend and support your posi-
probably at least 40% of them in the United States.
tion. You had to be able to say, “We think going forward it is this and if you got a better argument then let’s hear it.” It’s
You come from an old New York family that that you can
really simple and the same principles apply whether you’re
trace back to when the actual wall on Wall Street was being
managing a million dollar account for someone or a 150
built. Tell me about that.
billion dollar account for the Saudis. It’s the same deal. You
In the early days of New York, the Indians came into New
look at the customer and what the customer needs. Does
Amsterdam and kept stealing the chickens, so they decided
he need to fund a two billion dollar a month deficit? Okay.
to put up a wall. My ancestor was the one chosen to lay
What’s next? They’re the client. You figure out their needs
out the wall. He was a political guy so he just used stakes
and you figure how to maximize their return according to
to mark the ground. He wouldn’t have touched a brick him-
the risk parameters with which they are most comfortable.
self for God’s sake, but he put the stakes in the ground. As flags on top of the stakes, he used the very voluminous
What was your greatest challenge when you worked in Russia?
underwear of a very fat political rival, which he tore into
I was in Russia after the Berlin Wall fell with Merrill Lynch,
strips. That, according to Washington Irving, is where the
and our firm, as well as all the other major investment houses,
term “knickerbockers” come from. You hock somebody’s
were there seeking investment opportunities. Except for the
knickers, so that becomes knickerbockers.
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Investing in America is… That’s hard, because I can only think now in terms of passive
person of high energy. My first mother-in-law, Ann Spaulding, is 97 and still lives here.
investment. What is your favorite way to relax in Sarasota? Bernie Madoff...
I find tennis and golf very relaxing. I have the “Labrador
There are very few people willing to say the emperor has
Gene,” meaning I don’t like exercise unless I’m chasing a ball.
no clothes. Somebody should have seen that. Somebody did
I’m also a very active bird watcher.
and ducked. Tell me about some of the foundations with which you are involved. Do you ever play the lottery?
I have been involved with Sarasota Memorial Healthcare
No. (Laughing) There are hundreds of other games where you
Foundation and Jewish Family and Children’s Services. These
have somewhat decent odds, not that one.
people are doing a great job.
If I had the power, my tax policy would consist of…
How proud are you of your wife’s work as president of the
A progressive tax as opposed to a regressive tax. A lottery is
Gulf Coast Community Foundation in Sarasota? (His wife is
a regressive tax. It taxes the poor people. A progressive tax,
GCCF President/CEO Teri Hansen)
taxes the rich people.
She is an incredible and inspirational leader who has the ability to amass and analyze data and then bring together the
Sarasota real estate is… Looking good.
most knowledgeable people with the money people who care to get something done. I’ve never seen anything like this in my life. Just getting things done. I was on her board when
The stock market…
my first wife died. After a while, we started dating. I told the
We had a 30% year this last year. I think we’re going to be
board chair we were dating and when we decided to take it
a plus 8% this year. It’s not time to go home. My philosophy
further, I went off the board.
is it’s never time to go home. You should always be in, but weighing more this and more that.
What advice on life and money management do you hope your children and grandchildren take from you?
The best way to protect your money… Stay informed.
You never want to give advice until it’s asked for, particularly to family. Look at Warren Buffet’s philosophy - value, high quality, dividend-paying companies. Once you form the ini-
The best way to grow your money…
tial foundation of your needs, then you can start investing in
Basically have safe assets and risk assets and use your risk
S&P 500’s. Then you can build a core portfolio of high divi-
assets to look for the growth.
dend payers. Because guess what? Two years from now that dividend is going to be higher.
I worry about the American economy because… There is an overwhelmingly amount of superficiality these
Are you a religious man?
days with the very glib posturing of the internet businesses
I think nothing is wasted. Does it make sense for us to come
in particular.
to the end and you have to step off the bridge and there’s nothing else? I don’t think so. I’m a tenth generation Episco-
I have confidence in the American economy because… We are less superficial than other people.
palian. Religious? I do not knowingly proselytize because I don’t want a narrow perspective or a perception on the other person’s part of a narrow perspective to get in the way of a
How did you find your way to Sarasota? After years of living in all these different countries for three
meaningful conversation. There are so many ways in your attitude that you can convey religious principles.
to five years, we had always come here, particularly when we were in England to get some sunshine. We knew three
How do you want to be remembered?
different generations here and it became easy knowing
I don’t think I will be much remembered. As time goes on,
people. That plus spending five years in the desert and five
I’ve become much more sort of Buddhist in my orientation,
years in Bombay made Sarasota an attractive choice for us. I
just sort of fading away.
came here with Stevie, my first wife, who passed away from cancer. She fought hard and we even got in an interesting trip to Iran. She wanted to see the whole world. She was a
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GIVING
Bringing Learning to Life How STEMsmart is Transforming Education in Local Middle Schools Story & Photo by Jake Hartvigsen The moment you step into one of the Sarasota County School Dis-
business leaders and innovators into the classroom so students can
trict’s new STEMsmart TechActive classrooms for middle school sci-
see what’s possible.”
ence and math students, you know this is not your traditional learning experience. The room is literally buzzing with energy as students
Among the companies whose attention the initiative has grabbed
gather in groups of three to four and huddle around 23-inch, touch
is none other than Texas Instruments. Officials from the technolo-
screen computer monitors to analyze and discuss data they have col-
gy giant visited the middle schools last May and were so impressed
lected for today’s assignment.
that they agreed to provide 450 TI-NspireTM software licenses for use by students, as well as ongoing consultation on how to develop
Circulating around the room, their teacher moves from table to table an-
high-tech lesson plans for the TI-NspireTM handheld mini-computers
swering questions, providing advice and challenging each group to seek
and the TI wireless classroom network in the TechActive science and
solutions and applications they might not otherwise have considered.
math classrooms. Texas Instruments is also sharing Sarasota Coun-
You can literally feel the excitement as these students’ young minds en-
ty’s middle school success with state and district education partners
gage in active, real-world exercises designed to foster their collaborative
across the U.S.
and critical thinking skills. “Today’s middle school students are digital natives. Technology is a Welcome to twenty-first century learning. More importantly, wel-
part of their daily lives,” says Dettmann. “We are seeking to help
come to a program that is placing Sarasota county middle schools at
them develop the skills needed for a more complex, technologically
the forefront nationally when it comes to science and math education
advanced and competitive world through the integration of technol-
while preparing students for the jobs and careers of tomorrow.
ogy within science and math content and daily collaborative learning activities that require critical and creative thinking. Through these
“STEMsmart TechActive classrooms are transforming teaching and
efforts, we are realizing gains in student interest in math and science,
learning in science and math,” says Dr. Page Dettmann, executive
as well as in performance.“
director of middle schools for Sarasota County. “These classrooms integrate sophisticated, interactive technology and hands-on learn-
Indeed, technology is everywhere in these classrooms of tomorrow.
ing in a laboratory environment. Here, students discover, analyze,
From custom-designed tables with legs moved away from the edg-
and produce information together, much like working scientists and
es in order to promote movement and collaboration to digital mi-
mathematicians.
croscopes and high-tech measuring and data collection devices that capture data and upload it directly to touchscreen computer monitors
Started in 2010 with an initial commitment of $2.5 million, Gulf Coast
for student analysis, Sarasota’s STEMsmart TechActive classrooms re-
Community Foundation launched its STEMsmart initiative to boost
semble something you might expect to find at MIT or Google rather
achievement and opportunities in science and math. Gulf Coast and
than at the middle school level. Even the chairs were selected with
the school district made investing in these high-tech classrooms a key
a purpose in mind — with wheels so that students could more easily
tactic in the effort. There are now 75 STEMsmart TechActive class-
interact with each other and exchange ideas.
rooms located in middle schools throughout the county with plans to convert the remaining classrooms to this new model in the next two
As for the students themselves, they couldn’t be happier. “This is so much
years. Thanks to an anonymous donor challenge, every dollar donat-
different and more exciting than the way we used to study science,” one
ed to this effort will be matched.
of them told me. “It has really helped me understand ideas and concepts that I didn’t get when I just read about them in our textbook.”
“Gulf Coast developed and seeded STEMsmart to transform the way teachers teach and students learn science and math. We want to
To learn more about STEMsmart TechActive classrooms and how
ensure our students are prepared and empowered to be the busi-
you can make a difference in preparing Sarasota County’s students of
ness leaders and employees that our economy demands.” says Mark
tomorrow, contact Gulf Coast Community Foundation at (941) 486-
Pritchett of Gulf Coast Community Foundation. “STEMsmart brings
4600 or visit their website at www.gulfocoastcf.org.
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GIVING
Honoring Those Who Serve Sheri Greenhaus Story & Photo by Jake Hartvigsen Sheri Greenhaus understands what it means to deliver top-notch
According to school officials, the idea for the Veterans Legacy
service. Since 1995, she and her company, Cyber M@rketing
Endowment was born out of discussions that began last Septem-
Services, have pioneered a variety of Internet-based resources
ber between USF Sarasota-Manatee and The Patterson Foun-
for the contact center industry and have helped thousands of
dation, as part of the Legacy of Valor campaign. Through that
businesses, ranging in size from small start-ups to huge multina-
campaign, USF Sarasota-Manatee raised more than $38,000 last
tionals, improve their customer service and management skills.
fall for Veterans scholarships, thanks to matching funds from The Patterson Foundation. Greenhaus’ generous gift ensures that the
So, this past December, when leaders from University of South
program will continue to benefit USF Sarasota-Manatee stu-
Florida Sarasota-Manatee asked Greenhaus if she would be will-
dents who are veterans for generations to come.
ing to help create a new endowed scholarship program for veterans, the answer was easy.
While Greenhaus may be new to the area, she is not a newcomer when it comes to philanthropy. In addition to USF Sara-
“At my company, everything we do is about service,” says Sheri,
sota-Manatee’s Veterans Legacy Endowment, she is also a sup-
who relocated Cyber M@rketing Services from New Jersey to
porter of Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation, the Leukemia &
Lakewood Ranch in August of 2013 in order to take advantage
Lymphoma Society, and Ronald McDonald House. A recurring
of Florida’s more favorable business climate. “Yet, who better
theme in her support for all is a belief in the importance of help-
represents service than veterans? These are people who put
ing others during critical times of need.
their lives on the line every day. Their dedication and service provides people in this country the freedom to start and grow
“I have always believed in supporting my community,” Sheri
a business. I also believe that education is essential for success.
says. “But I think it is especially important to help when people
So when I learned that I could help veterans, and at that same
are facing hard times. I don’t want to see anybody miss out on
time support education through this scholarship program at USF
their chance to go to college or to not be able to have treatment
Sarasota-Manatee, it seemed like a natural fit to me.”
because they find themselves short of funds for essentials such as food or utilities.”
Greenhaus’ donation helped establish USF Sarasota-Manatee’s new Veterans Legacy Endowment, which provides merit-based
Officials from USF Sarasota-Manatee say they can’t overstate
scholarships to both full and part-time students who are U.S.
their appreciation to Greenhaus for stepping forward and sup-
military veterans. To qualify, the students must be eligible to
porting local veterans. They hope others will follow her lead
receive VA benefits and experiencing either a gap in federal
and lend their support as well.
funding or a short-term financial emergency. They must also maintain a minimum 2.5 grade point average. The program is
To learn more about giving to USF Sarasota-Manatee and the
open to both undergraduate and graduate students, regardless
Veterans Legacy Endowment, please call Dennis Stover, region-
of their field of study.
al vice chancellor for advancement at (941) 359-4582.
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GIVING
A Vision for the Future Titus Herman Story & Photo by Jake Hartvigsen When Southeastern Guide Dogs was founded 31 years ago, the
only one in the southeast. Over the years, we have placed more
entire operation was run out of a small, two-bedroom house on
than 2,800 extraordinary guide dogs into service throughout the
the outskirts of Palmetto, Florida. Current CEO Titus Herman’s
48 contiguous states. As our guide dog teams grow and mature,
office, which sits near the back of the non-profit agency’s ad-
they stay in close touch with our school, which provides ongo-
ministration building, is located in the former kitchen of that old
ing follow-up services and support.”
ranch house, although you would be hard-pressed to recognize that if he didn’t point out the waist-high electrical outlets.
Not all of Southeastern Guide Dogs expansion has been bricks and mortar. Under Herman’s leadership, the agency has ex-
The same could be said for Southeastern Guide Dogs in general.
panded and enriched its programming as well. In addition to
In recent years, the agency has grown from its humble origins
its traditional work with visually-impaired adults, the agency
into one of the nation’s elite providers of guide dogs for visually
now offers service dogs to veterans and companion dogs to
impaired individuals, as well as service dogs for veterans and
visually-impaired children, enabling them to lead richer and
therapy dogs for military hospitals.
fuller lives. It also provides therapy dogs to military hospitals like the Walter Reed National Medical Center and Andrews
Over the past five years alone, Southeastern Guide Dogs has
Air Force Base.
doubled its number of paid employees, tripled its core volunteer base, expanded its Freedom Walk – an outdoor “classroom”
All programs are made possible through the generosity of private
where students and dogs practice working together – and added
donors. “One hundred percent of our funding comes from pri-
a new, state-of-the-art veterinary center and genetics laboratory
vate donations,” Herman states. “In total, we have about 20,000
to its beautifully manicured 35-acre campus. A new canine as-
wonderful individuals and organizations that help make our
sessment center is scheduled to open this spring. And that is just
work possible. Our services, which are provided free of charge,
on the main campus.
restore our students’ independence and dignity. Providing that lifetime of independence is priceless.”
The agency has also opened new outreach centers in downtown Sarasota and St. Petersburg, each of which attracts more
Southeastern Guide Dogs has earned Charity Navigator’s high-
than 10,000 visitors per year, and has plans for additional sites
est, four-star rating for three years in a row. The rating means the
in Naples, Sun City Center, and The Villages. All are part of a
organization “exceeds industry standards and outperforms most
strategic plan designed to place Southeastern Guide Dogs at the
charities in its Cause.”
forefront nationwide when it comes to meeting the needs of the visually impaired.
Southeastern Guide Dogs welcomes visitors at all locations. To arrange time to Hug a Puppy or simply to learn more
“We are currently one of only 10 internationally-accredited
about their services, visit www.guidedogs.org or call (941)
guide dog schools in the United States,” says Herman, “and the
729-5665.
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EDUCATION
Education Matters
The Mother's Circle Outreach Program at The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee By Ryan G. Van Cleave
While the Education Matters column often focuses on what’s happening in our local schools, what’s becoming clear is that some of the most important education taking place in our community is happening outside of traditional classrooms. One group that’s making a true difference in this manner is The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee whose mission is “Saving Jewish lives and enhancing Jewish life in Sarasota-Manatee, Israel, and around the world.” Hearing that, one might think that if you’re not Jewish, what they do isn’t for you. Not so! One of the ways they advance this mission is by “strengthening ties between the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish community and the broader society in which it exists.” To be clear, the broader society means everyone, and from talking to Flora Oynick, the Federation’s Engagement Director, they truly mean everyone, no matter their age, gender, socioeconomic status, or religious beliefs. One of the Federation’s most interesting outreach programs is The Mother’s Circle, which provides free educational resources and programs for non-Jewish women who are raising Jewish children or have Jewish people in their lives. While Jews make up only 2.2% of the U.S. population, it’s estimated that 5.3 million adults and 1.3 million children are being raised in a partly Jewish manner. “It’s a non-threatening environment where people can ask any question and participate in an honest dialogue,” explains Oynick. And after each meeting (Oynick also calls them “celebrations”), people can get additional information through web resources. This program has proven so popular that even some men have attended to learn about Jewish culture, rituals, heritage, and beliefs! And as Oynick has stressed, anyone is welcome to come and learn. This organization — formerly called the Sarasota Jewish Community Council — has been around since 1959. In 1980, its name was changed to what it is today but it didn’t change its goal of preserving scenesarasota.com
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Jewish heritage, providing help for those in need, and protecting the people of Israel and countries around the world. The Mother’s Circle is just one natural extension of those goals. Three years ago, the Federation became an affiliate of The Mother’s Circle national program and ran its first sixteen-week program. Since it’s clear that such a long commitment doesn’t suit everyone’s busy lives, they’ve gone to offering three-day and one-day programs that focus on a single, specific topic. “The world has changed,” says Oynick, and the Federation is open to meeting the needs of hectic lives. In January, they sponsored an information session that taught three common Shabbat practices — making challah (Jewish braided bread eaten on Sabbath and holidays), lighting Shabbat candles, and reciting Shabbat prayers. The goal was to help families feel more comfortable celebrating Shabbat in their homes. “There’s more flexibility in how families can celebrate holidays than most might think,” Oynick says. “Judaism allows for families to create their own rituals.” In February, they had “Purim, Pastry, Pairing, and Bingo,” where, between Bingo games, the attendees learned about the basic rituals and customs of Purim while enjoying a variety of wines and Homentaschen (Jewish triangle cookies filled with jam). The next one-day event for The Mother’s Circle? It’s the “Seder Survival Guide,” and it’ll be on April 4th from 9:30-11:30 in the morning. Through hands-on activities and stimulating discussion, participants will explore the how-tos and purpose behind the various Passover rituals. They’ll also examine some of the elements of the Passover Seder as well as get the truth about the do's and don’ts of Passover food. Every participant will also discover ways to answer their children’s spiritual questions and discuss some of the intricacies of participating in — or even hosting — their own Jewish holiday celebration. Interfaith relationships — with a spouse, loved one, or child — can prove difficult. And that’s one of the real benefits of The Mother’s Circle. These courses provide a comfortable space for people to learn about Jewish holidays and rituals, discover how to enrich their families’ Jewish experience, and deepen their connection to the religion of their loved ones. Most importantly, these free programs are open to anyone who has an interest in attending. According to Oynick, a lot of people have the misconception that all the Jewish celebrations are complicated, but that’s not the case. And with the friends and communities made through events like the Federation has, it’s easier than ever to share information and help each other out. “It easy for someone to feel isolated before they start finding groups, classes and social events,” Oynick adds. “Once someone comes to one of our events, they realize there aren’t that many barriers after all.” If you’d like to support the Jewish Federation’s efforts through a financial gift, they promise that your gift to the Federation will “help to keep children safe locally, in Israel and around the world; feed the hungry in Ethiopia, Argentina, Poland and the former Soviet Union; provide Jewish summer camp experiences here and abroad; offer after-school and continuing education programs for teens and adults; and so much more.” But there’s more you can do beyond just sending money. Volunteers are always welcome. Just contact them or stop by to say you’d like to be a part of the important work they do. Kim Mullins, the Federation’s Director of Operations, stresses the importance of non-Jews to consider attending Federation events, saying, “The better understanding people have of different religions, the more tolerant we’ll all be.” And the people of the world can always use a little more education and a little more tolerance. For more information on The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, please visit www.jfedsrq.org For more information on The Mother’s Circle, please visit themotherscircle.org
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MARCH
16-21, 2014
FOR TICKETS AND COMPLETE INFO:
EVENT SPONSORS
www.jfedsrq.org/filmfestival.aspx SINGLE TICKET: $10
FESTIVAL PASS: $54
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JEWISH CLUB OF LAKEWOOD RANCH
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20 14
TICKETS BY PHONE 941.552.6304 r... t! yea men n! s i th urna s ope e o ain Ag eld T cours i t F s o We Tw nd st a Ea
It’s time again for Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s
13th Annual Golf Tournament Join us on Friday, May 2, 2014, at Laurel Oak Country Club Registration: 11:30 a.m. Shotgun Start: 12:45 p.m. Format: Scramble Cost: $295 per player Event includes golf, cart, lunch buffet, awards dinner and beverages.
Proceeds benefit the Physicians Endowment
Media Sponsor
(Fund for SMH staff education)
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SOCIAL
Behind the Scene
Society Maven Debbi Benedict Gives the Latest Scoop I have been told that some folks, who will go unnamed, chair events and sit on boards to embellish their future obituaries. The same goes with Field Club and Junior League memberships. If you do enough or donate enough, when it is time to go to socialite heaven, you may even be lucky enough to have the Herald-Tribune do an actual, not paid for, article about you and your fabulously philanthropic and enthralling life. There could be worse reasons, Poodle! I adore this event! Of course, it may be because I created it and chaired it for the first five years, but never mind that, it continues to be fabulous in its 12th year. What is this not-to-be-missed event? Why, it’s the Junior League Sustainers’ Legacy Luncheon at Michael’s On East, featuring guest speakers Julie and David Eisenhower and chaired by Susan Powers. I think the Eisenhowers will be divine! I am sure you know that Julie Eisenhower is actually Julie Nixon Eisenhower, the daughter of former President Richard Nixon. She played with David, the grandson of Dwight and Mamie, at the Eisenhower White House when she was a mere child. They were married just after her father was elected as president, but just a few weeks before he took office. Top sponsors are Coffrin Jewelers, who always donate a marvelous piece of jewelry to the raffle, ASO, Beverly Fisher, Susan Clark Gilmore, and Cornelia Matson.
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Another looked-forward-to luncheon with an interesting speaker is the Women’s Resource Center’s Renaissance Luncheon held at the Ritz Carlton, and chaired by Kathy Coffey. The honorary chair is Dr. Willa Bernhard. This year’s speaker is that little fireball sex therapist, Dr. Ruth Westheimer. The 85 year-old is still going strong and will soon be releasing her next book, The Goddess in You. She truly does have a remarkable life story. Her parents were killed in the Holocaust and she was raised in a Swedish orphanage. She lived in several countries and wound up in New York City, where she still lives. I will let her tell you the rest of the story, along with all the sexy little tidbits we are dying to hear about. I am officially blushing now. No silent auction this year, but there will be a live auction of a special Amish quilt. Sponsors include Renee Hamad, Alison Gardner, Betty Schoenbaum, Kim Wheeler, Marilyn Spencer, and Gulf Coast Community Foundation, among others. If you like dressing up and role playing, and no, this doesn’t belong in the above paragraph with Dr. Ruth, you will love Ringling College of Art and Design’s An Evening at the Avant-Garde, chaired by Dr. Sarah and Dan Hoffe, on the Ringling campus. It is a fun, fun costume party and this year’s theme is The Swinging Sixties. The invitation is alive with the bright psychedelic colors of the decade, looking somewhat like a graphic from Laugh-In! Oh my, I am referring to a lot of things in this column that my younger (under 50) readers will wonder what in the world I am talking about! The honored guest will be none other than Richard Dreyfuss, who starred in one of the best movies about the 60s, American Graffiti. A perfect choice! On the other end of the spectrum, I guess they could have gone with someone like Jon Voight from Midnight Cowboy or Peter Fonda from Easy Rider. I can see Ringling College President, Dr. Larry Thompson, with a bandana tied around his head, roaring up to the Ulla Searing Student Center on his Harley now! Or maybe even better, as a Ken doll with his darling wife, Pat, as Barbie! Sponsors for the evening are SunTrust and Willis A. Smith Construction. Moving away from their annual cooking demo luncheon, Historic Spanish Point is changing things up a bit. This year’s luncheon, Seaside Serenity at Michael’s On East and chaired by Pauline Joerger and Ann Moore, will feature the designs of Sigrid Olsen, from her nature-inspired tabletops to the informal modeling of her casual clothing line. As an added bonus, Sigrid is also sharing her personal story about how she came to Sarasota. She is donating 20% of the proceeds from her sales that day to Spanish Point. In addition to all
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of that, there will be a live auction with trips to nearby and
This year the Schoenbaum Humanitarian Award, presented
exotic locales. Top sponsors are Center for Sight and Barbara
by Betty Schoenbaum, will be going to two good friends and
Stainbrook, followed by Gulf Coast Community Foundation,
long-time board members, Alice Rau and Joyce Tate. I know
Community Foundation of Sarasota County, Merrill Lynch,
both of these delightful and philanthropic women and the
Margarete van Antwerpen, and Cornelia Matson.
award is very well-deserved. The impact that they have made
The ballroom at Michael’s On East is always filled with the
on the Salvation Army and the community is large indeed.
swells of Sarasota at the AJC Spring Award Dinner chaired by
Alice and Joyce have created miracles for many families in
Larry and Debbie Haspel and Matt and Lisa Walsh, with Bea
Sarasota. This event will also be an opportunity to introduce
Friedman as honorary chair. This year the Human Relations
new Salvation Army Area Commander, Major Ethan Frizzell.
Award will be given to the AJC National Executive Director,
Top sponsors are Karen Fessel and Betty Schoenbaum,
David Harris, and the Legacy of Leadership Award goes to AJC
followed by Mercedes Benz of Sarasota, SunTrust, and Gulf
Regional Vice-president and local philanthropist, Gerri Aaron.
Coast Community Foundation.
Sponsors for the evening are lengthy, but include Anne Virag,
One of the best silent auctions in town is at the Friendship
Ilene Friedman and Greg Gregory, Randy and Lori Benderson,
Centers’ Madcap Evening – Musicale & Musings, chaired
Sue and Dorothy Jacobson, Sen. Bob and Pat Johnson, Dennis
by Debbie Frank. Every year they have tables heaped with
and Graci McGillicuddy, and SCENE Magazine, among many,
enchanting offerings. There will also be a live auction with
many others.
a “bucket list of dream vacations.” Chef Paul Mattison is
Following in her late mother’s well-heeled and esteemed
catering the event held at the Center. Lots of things going on
footsteps, Michelle Crabtree is co-chairing the Salvation
that evening including performances by the Sarasota Opera,
Army’s Glitz at the Ritz luncheon with Wendy Rose.
the West Coast Black Theatre Troupe, and Jairo Hernandez
Michelle’s mom, Paulette Blair founded the luncheon and was
and his Tierra Nueva South American Band, along with the
very involved in the Salvation Army for many, many years.
musings of poet/author, Richard Cook – whew! Sponsors
Jane VanBergen
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of the evening include Gerri Aaron,
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afternoon, followed by the tastings in
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the evening with live music and a silent auction. Sponsors include Benderson Development, Bright House Networks, Shumaker, Loop, & Kendrick, The Otto Group – SunTrust Private Wealth, SCENE Magazine, and many more. No, you don’t have to go to New
Italy
&
Orleans to have a perfect Mardi Gras celebration. No, Cheri (I definitely hear this as Dennis Quaid would say it to
ent pres y l d prou
Ellen Barkin in The Big Easy. I really just want to swoon right now), you only need to travel to Goodwill Manasota’s Argentina
Countdown to Mardi Gras at Michael’s On East chaired by Steve and Barbara Baseman. Lots of beads will be thrown around and you don’t even have to Germany
June 16-21
ances m r o f r tres e pe ce liv unity thea ! n e i r Expe 17 comm the globe from m around fro Presenting sponsor:
LEARN MORE & REGISTER NOW! VeniceStage.com/ international 941-488-1115
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do anything unseemly to get them. Co-chairs Penny DiGregorio and Kim Davis are planning scads of authentic New Orleans dishes and dancing. Sponsors are RSS – Rapid Security
Togo
Solutions, CS&L CPAs, and ReMax Alliance Group. Don’t you wish that places like New York City’s legendary Rainbow Room atop Rockefeller Center still existed? Well, they will for one night in Sarasota at Asolo Repertory Theatre’s Annual scenesarasota.com
Gala – A Night at the Rainbow Room, held at the Ritz Carlton and chaired by Chris Cogan, Carol Phillips, Nikki Sedacca, and Nikki Taylor. Once again, the gala will feature big band singer, Michael Andrew & The Atomic Big Band. Michael was once the featured headliner at the real Rainbow Room. This will be the perfect opportunity to pull out your diamonds and mink stoles and fully embrace your inner Lana Turner or Rita Hayworth. I wonder if they will have a revolving dance floor, like the original? Well, maybe not. We don’t want anyone to fall off and break a hip. Sponsors are Gulf Coast Community Foundation, Stanley Kane, Carolyn Keystone and Jim Meekison, and US Trust – Bank of America Private Wealth Management. As president and CEO, Barbara Zdravecky has been the driving force of this region’s Planned Parenthood organization for 20 years. At this year’s Annual Dinner, chaired by Clare and
Rich Segall and held under the tent at USF Sarasota-Manatee, she will be honored and celebrated. Special guest is Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. Will anything change, besides the location, at the 2014 event? No, there will still be a huge silent auction and most importantly, the condom grab bag will be back! Who doesn’t love a condom grab bag? Among the sponsors are Gerri Aaron, Peggy and Ken Abt, Sally Yanowitz, Felice Schulaner and Dennis Rees, Charles and Judy Cahn, and several more. Isn’t this the most darling theme ever? Cat Depot’s Caturday Night Fever at the Hyatt Regency, chaired by Deborah Vaughn, will have glittering disco balls
and a lighted dance floor. I would just
love to see someone with a cat mask
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on, dressed in a white suit, a la John
Michelle Crabtree
Realtor, Broker Associate, CLHMS, CRS, CIPS, GRI, PMN, ABR, TRC, RSPS, AHWD, SFR, GREEN
Travolta! Adorable purring kitties will
2014 Five Star Real Estate
home. Maria Wirries will perform and
Agents “Best In Client
DJ Tommy DiSarro will spin the tunes
Satisfaction” – 7 Years
to keep you “Staying Alive” on the
Women’s Council of Realtors
dance floor. There will also be dancers
2013 “Entrepreneur of the
from Dynasty Dance Club to help those
Year” & 2009 “Business
who might not have lived through the
Woman of the Year”
disco years. My husband and I were so
2013 & 2007 SAR
inspired during that era that we actually
“Meritorious Service Award”
took disco lessons, though I am not
2010 Florida Realtor Honor Society – 6 Years
Cell: 941.724.HOME (4663) Office: 941.907.9595 Email: Sales@CrabtreeHomes.com www.CrabtreeHomes.com A third generation local & Broker Sales Associate since 1982; dedicated to your needs. Serving Sarasota, Bradenton & Lakewood Ranch.
be there to tempt you into taking them
sure how much of The Bump or The Hustle we could do now! The evening is presented by Warren Loranger.
2010 Director, Sarasota Association of Realtors (SAR) – 3 year term 2008 WCR Sarasota
Saks Fifth Avenue’s willowy models in Tory Burch’s latest will be strutting down the runway past the Hernando De
Soto
statue
at
South
Florida
Chapter President
Museum’s Couture in the Courtyard
2005 WCR Sarasota
luncheon and fashion show, chaired by
“Realtor of the Year”
Jeanie Kirkpatrick. Whimsical parasols will be strung across the courtyard, shielding delicate skin from the noon day sun, though hats and sunscreen are encouraged. Michael’s On East is the caterer. Raffle packages include a Southern comfort trip featuring a stay at the Collier Inn on Useppa Island
Dakkak
and dinner on Boca Grande, and a two night stay at the Longboat Key Club
Insurance
with dinner at Pattigeorge’s. Hancock Bank
is
the
Presenting
Sponsor,
followed by Mosaic, Morrish Stewart
We Protect What’s Important To You Because You’re What’s Important To Us!
Orthodontics, NDC Construction, The Mall at University Town Center, and Jeanie and Sandy Kirkpatrick. Lots of revisiting the past during this
Full-Service Agency: • Auto • Life
George & Mary Dakkak
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• Home • Retirement
month’s events. Kind of like your life flashing before your eyes just before they write your obituary! Until next time….TaTa!
941-921-6630 | www.dakkakinsurance.com
Debbi Benedict is SCENE’s society maven
“Protecting you is our family business.”
941-483-4460 or debbibenedict@verizon.net
and Special Issues Director. Contact Debbi at
scenesarasota.com
Reserve your Puppy Hugging spot at GuideDogs.org 4210 77th Street E, Palmetto, FL 34221
HEALTH MATTERS
Oh, My Aching Legs! By Dr. Martin Aldrich, M.D., F.A.C.C Sore and painful legs can significantly decrease quality of life. Many people complain of sore, aching, heavy, weak, swollen legs or complain of nighttime leg cramps. Additionally there are claudication symptoms or leg aches with walking that resolve with rest. These symptoms can be benign or could be caused by vascular disease. There are two different types of vascular disease: peripheral arterial disease and peripheral venous disease. Let’s discuss peripheral arterial disease and its implications on life. The signs of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) include having shiny skin or poor hair growth on the legs or toes, decreased ankle or foot pulses, skin discoloration or sometimes leg wounds that heal poorly such as ulcers.
Dr. Martin Aldrich practices at
Aldrich Cardiovascular Institute, 7978 Cooper Creek Blvd., Suite 105, Sarasota, FL. 34201 941.359.8900 | ACIHeart.com
The symptoms of PAD include leg pain with walking, painful legs at night, nighttime leg cramps, weak or heavy legs, and unfortunately sometimes no symptoms at all. Approximately 50% of all patients with underlying peripheral arterial disease do not have symptoms. PAD effects approximately 3% of people between ages of 50-59, 5% of patients 60-69, and 15% of patients over the age of 70. Risk factors for PAD include history or current cigarette smoking, Diabetes Mellitus, hypertension, high cholesterol, coronary artery disease, and kidney failure. PAD is extremely under-diagnosed in the United States even with our current health care system. This brings the question of whom should be evaluated for PAD – anyone complaining of leg pain, anyone who smokes over the age of 50 years old, anyone over 50 years old with diabetes and everyone over 65 years old. The evaluation is simple and typically involves using blood pressure cuffs to see pressure in the leg arteries and sometimes using ultrasound for initial evaluation, both of which are painless, office-based procedures. If PAD is diagnosed, it is extremely treatable. The main issue to be treated is the overall risk factor of the patient, such as controlling the blood pressure, controlling the cholesterol, stopping smoking, increasing exercise, and adding certain medications. In rare situations patients with very significant decreased blood flow in their vessels can be treated with minimally invasive procedures designed to improve blood flow to the legs such as an angioplasty or stent. Our goal in treating patients with peripheral arterial disease is to improve lifestyle allowing for an active lifestyle not hindered by leg pain. Additionally, the diagnosis of PAD is a window to the heart and brain vessels. With early recognition of a vascular process with the addition of medication and lifestyle adjustments, we can decrease risk of strokes, heart attacks and death as well as possible amputations. Only 50% of patients who undergo an amputation have ever had a vascular evaluation to determine if blood flow can be restored. Very sadly, the mean survival following a major amputation is only 6.5 years. Diabetic patients are at a higher risk for amputations which is often due to delayed diagnosis as the nerves of the feet are affected causing numbness. Diabetic patients do not feel when there is any decreased blood flow and often present with an ulcer or tissue death. It is imperative that diabetic patients undergo vascular testing yearly as this allows for early diagnosis in non-symptomatic patients. These guidelines have been recommended by the American Diabetic Association. The minimum evaluation would be an ABI which is testing the blood flow with a blood pressure cuff on the legs, or to consider other forms of non-invasive testing. Early diagnosis of PAD can save lives and has been shown to decrease risk of stroke, heart attack as well as death. We highly encourage you to be evaluated if you have these risks and discuss this with your primary care physician, podiatrist or your cardiovascular specialist.
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HEALTH MATTERS
There Is Magic In Your Smile By Dr. Christine Koval, DMD
Did you know that every time you smile, you throw a little feel-good party in your brain? Smiling activates neuropeptides that work toward fighting off stress. The release of serotonins and endorphins not only relaxes your body but can lower your heart rate and blood pressure. Serotonin release brought on by a smile can act as a mood lifter without a prescription from your doctor!
Dr. Christine Koval, DMD practices
Sadly, there are those people that actually hold back a smile for the simple
at Koval & Koval Dental Associates
reason that their lackluster smile or unattractive teeth keep them from enjoying this
2477 Stickney Point Road, Suite 216-A, Sarasota, FL 34231 drkoval@askdrdkoval.com AskDrKoval.com
natural phenomenon. We have entered into an era where the materials in dentistry rival replacements that are as close to natural teeth as ever before. Procedures and new technology allow diagnosis and treatment to be more comfortable and efficient than ever before. Especially when the comprehensive treatment allows one to happily admire their smile in the mirror afterwards. The art of aesthetic dentistry can be defined as combining beauty in form along with ideal function. The smile actually is considered by many to be a reflection of a happy, comfortable and successful life. The truth is the teeth are more than just a part of our masticatory system for digesting food. The mouth is intimately linked to our well-being, our pleasure and sensations with food and communication, both verbally and non-verbally. There are a multitude of sophisticated technologies and materials that allow recreation of dentistry to be more predictable, more comfortable, efficient and natural looking. Procedures that required multiple trips we can now perform in only one or two visits. With the advent of lasers, we find the need for profound anesthesia and post treatment pain is diminished and often eliminated. Gummy smiles can be modified and evened out to be more harmonious with that lip line. Early detection of decay can be found with lasers to treat prior to extensive cavities that are more painful and costly to treat. Low level lasers are used to decrease pain and inflammation in the TMJ while corrections to the bite are accomplished to solve the joint problem. It is a very exciting and wonderful world in dentistry when treatment is well thought out and treated comprehensively. Digital x-rays now reduce patient’s exposure to radiation by over 80%. Digital x-rays allow us to enhance, enlarge or contrast the image to improve our ability to detect disease. They are viewed instantaneously with surpassed quality of traditional methods. A study published in the Journal of Neuropsychologia, reported that seeing an attractive smiling face, activates a region in your brain that processes sensory rewards. This process actually allows you to feel rewarded when a person smiles at you. Often this coaxes the brain to return the favor, thus releasing feel-good chemicals increasing healthier, happier lives. The world is really a better place when you smile!
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LEE WETHERINGTON BACK IN THE SADDLE! Florida Orthopedic Specialists provides expertise in a broad range of orthopedic treatments and dedication to the best patient experience. With a state-of-the-art facility featuring the latest in technology and a highly skilled team, you can expect unparalleled patient care.
OUR PATIENT
Lee Wetherington
During a recent flight to Europe, my elbow had an unfortunate collision with a beverage cart, resulting in a large bone chip. By the time I arrived at my destination, fluid had accumulated and the pain was significant. Upon my return home, with an elbow three times its normal size, I was immediately seen by Dr. Sforzo, surgery was completed, and thankfully, I quickly resumed my normal activities. Dr. Sforzo is an outstanding surgeon with a very caring bedside manner – one of the many reasons I recommend Florida Orthopedic Specialists and Sports Medicine. - Lee Wetherington
CONSULTANTS FOR • PREMIER SPORTS CAMPUS AT LAKEWOOD RANCH • THE OUT-OF-DOOR ACADEMY • SARASOTA ORCHESTRA CHRISTOPHER R. SFORZO, M.D. CHRISTOPHER L. DILLINGHAM, M.D. BOARD-CERTIFIED. FELLOWSHIP-TRAINED. ORTHOPEDIC SURGEONS.
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HEALTH MATTERS
FMS And Your Workout – Exclusive Insight From a Fitness Insider By Tiffany Liashek With fitness, it’s all about having the competitive advantage – getting more from your workouts than you ever thought possible to face your battles. Your competition can be your clash with sports opponents, your fight with weight loss or specific injuries and ongoing ailments, or even your push to be better than you were yesterday. You sweat, grind and work to become a stronger, faster and healthier adversary. But are you training correctly and efficiently to achieve the goals you’re after? Your body is unique. Your fitness program should be as well. Generalized exercises may not
Tiffany Liashek is the owner of Studio South Fitness. 711 S Osprey Ave #1, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.365.4584 studiosoutfitness.com
do enough to address your distinct weaknesses and asymmetries. By continuing with these universal routines, you deprive yourself of a complete workout for all-around strength and health. That means you’re not going to reach your full potential. Introduce FMS To Your Workout The first step in developing the most effective fitness program for you is learning about your own body and the way it moves. This is the very foundation of a Functional Movement Screen (FMS). Named among the most popular fitness advancements for 2014 by USA Today, FMS uses a streamlined seven-step process to examine and analyze your basic movement actions. These are the common daily movements and motions that your body should be able to manage without difficulty: squatting, pushing up, standing, walking, etc. Over time, the effects of poor patterns can lead to constant aches and pains and later injuries to make the simplest movements a challenge. If your exercise routine doesn’t take your body’s dysfunctional patterns into consideration, the extra stress and pressure on these areas will greatly increase the potential for injury. FMS has gained significantly popularity among trainers, chiropractors and physical therapists for good reason. It has a simple scoring system, gives a reliable foundation of abilities, and provides a consistent measure of progress. In fact, every new fitness plan should begin with a Functional Movement Screen. With all this detailed, observable information about your specific patterns, your trainer can provide you with the competitive advantage of progressive, productive workouts with less chance of injury, better posture and breathing, and more core strength. In essence, you can maximize your fitness experience for the best results possible. The Right Step for Any Fitness Goal FMS brings a wealth of benefits for virtually any physical health application. It can also determine the ideal movement and strengthening techniques for those with arthritis, joint issues, and limited mobility or flexibility. Basically, FMS simplifies the concept of movement and its impact on your body, which can help everyone involved in your personalized fitness program – you, your trainer, and even your physicians. From sports performance training and pre-habilitation needs, to weight loss programs, exercise regimens, and much more, the beneficial reach of FMS is limitless. What’s more, certified FMS trainers have worked with top professional sports organizations. For instance, the Seattle Seahawks – this year’s Super Bowl champion – have implemented FMS as an integral part of their offseason training. While you may not seek the level of training to prepare for a Super Bowl matchup, through FMS you can safely and successfully explore the entire spectrum of athletic and training options. Steve A., a client of ours at Studio South who visits regularly for Pilates, has seen remarkable results that stemmed from his experience with FMS. “The Functional Movement Screen pointed out my mobility and stability restrictions. By knowing those, I was given a series of corrective exercises to do a few times a week. I could not believe my improvement in balance and flexibility. I lost 18lbs and 5% body fat in 8 weeks, and improved the drive in my golf game.”
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Building Homes. Building Futures.
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Laurel Oak Country Club 8:30 am Shotgun
Register online: www.habitatsrq.org For More Information: (941) 487-5518 Sponsorship Opportunities Available Scramble format • $150 per player Lunch • Awards • Contests • Prizes Silent & Live Auction Presented By:
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LITERARY S By Ryan G. Van Cleave
Wrapped in the Flag: A Personal History of America’s Radical Right by Claire Conner (Beacon Press, hardcover, 252 pages, $25.95).
Extremism might have broken Claire Conner’s family, but she didn’t want it to break this country, and that’s why she wrote Wrapped in the Flag, a moving personal history of the John Birch Society. For those who don’t know this group, it was established in 1958 to champion many of the issues today’s ultra-conservatives support, such as working against gay rights, abortion rights, gun control, labor unions, environmental protections, immigrant rights, and social/welfare programs. Dunedin, Florida author Conner knows this world well because she lived in it. At age thirteen, she officially joined the society. But she also brought home school textbooks to have them scrutinized (her mother found “traces of Communist influence” in the Catholic school curriculum). She corrected teachers if they taught “socialist” facts in the classroom. She wrote letters against “socialized medicine” after school. And she had to be on hand to help out when notable society members visited, such as founder Robert Welch, Holocaust denier Revilo Oliver, and white supremacist Thomas Stockheimer. This book shares information from the society’s records and documents, plus it uses Conner’s parents’ files and personal writings, historical archives and contemporary accounts, as well as her own firsthand knowledge to share a story that is a powerful insider’s account of the dangers of right-wing extremism. The writing is clear, the story is intriguing, and the relevance is obvious. It only takes a few pages before one starts to realize that the John Birch Society has been a force in American politics for decades, from discrediting the Cold War credentials of JFK to the grassroots movement toward a Clinton impeachment. If you’re interested in memoirs that reveal how someone overcame immense challenges, this is your book. If you’re interested in politics, this is your book. If you’re interested in American history, this is your book. If you’re interested in plain good writing, this is your book. I don’t say it often because it’s so rarely true, but here’s the fact: this book is hard to put down. For more information on Claire Conner or Wrapped in the Flag, please visit www.claireconner.com
Best Defense by Randy Rawls (Midnight Ink, softcover, 360 pages, $13.99).
Rawls’ new novel is the sequel to Hot Rocks, and private eye Beth Bowman is at it again. This time, it’s her new client, society wife Sabrina Hammonds, who’s kicked the bucket, along with her maid. The suspect? Bowman herself, if the local police have anything to say about it. But Bowman thinks the real killer is the man Hammonds paid Bowman to spy on — Hammonds’ cheating attorney husband who might have decided it’d be cheaper for her to die than to be sucked dry through a nasty divorce. But when the desperate widower’s five-year-old daughter, Ashley, is kidnapped, it’s up to Bowman and her gang to rescue the missing girl and find the truth. If you like stories that get into the grittier part of life, this book might be up your alley. Bowman deals with a lot of low-lifes (what do you expect from an attorney like Hammond who’s represented every dirtbag in South Florida?) and shady characters. She even enlists the help of homeless people to solve the mystery. Though Rawls was a career U.S. Army officer, he also had a long-standing love of books since he was a child thanks to a wonderful librarian who introduced him to the right books.
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It’s unusual for a man — much less someone with a masculine
such as “Fat,” “A Serious Talk,” “A Small, Good Thing,”
background like Rawls has — to write from a woman’s perspec-
and “Feathers.” Perhaps the best of the bunch is “Cathe-
tive, but again and again, he gets small things right. She’s sassy,
dral,” which recounts the story of a man whose wife once
bright, confident and opinionated. In short, she’s a character
worked for a blind man. Now that the blind man’s own
that’s easy to care about and worth following. If you haven’t
wife has recently died, he’s come to visit, and the jealous
given Rawls’ books a chance, this might be a good one to start with. It’s full of lighthearted action and a few serious laughs. For more information on Randy Rawls or Best Defense, please visit www.randyrawls.com
narrator isn’t happy about it at all. But throughout the dinner and evening, a magical transformation takes place that culminates in an ending that sticks with you long after the last page is turned.
Classics Revisited Now
that
short
And that’s what’s so special about Carver. He writes in a spare, Hemingway-esque frugality of language, yet he
sto-
manages to communicate volumes in these short tales.
ry writer Alice Munro has
Again and again, his subjects are commonplace people
won the Noble Prize for
who struggle to find their way in a challenging world.
literature, short stories are cool again. But here’s the truth: they’ve been cool for a long time. Just take a look at Raymond Carver’s Where I’m Calling From: Stories (Vintage Contem-
Sure, there’s misery and sadness here, but there’s also unexpected moments of kindness and joy that comes from small moments. Prior to Alice Munro’s sudden fame, Carver held the mantel as the most prominent contemporary fiction writer to be primarily known for short stories. His writing is de-
poraries, softcover, 1989,
ceptively simple, but the end result of each? Transcendent
530 pages, $13.00), which
works that no lover of reading should miss. If you haven’t
showcases 37 of Carver’s
delved deep into the Carver archive, give this collection a
best,
chance. You won’t regret it.
including
classics
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SOCIAL
Circus Arts Conservatory Gala The 2014 Circus Arts Conservatory Gala was recently held under the dazzling Big Top in Sarasota. More than 350 guests attended the annual event that featured fine cuisine, a costume contest, live entertainment and special performances by Sailor Circus Students and the astounding Alexis Brothers from Cirque du Soleil. Proceeds will be used to equip Sailor Circus Academy and the Education & Humor Therapy Programs. Photos by Cliff Roles
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NEWS SHAPING
OUR COMMUNITY 2014 STARTS OFF STRONG AT THE CONCESSION
Sales at The Concession, an exclusive, gated golf course community located between Sarasota and Manatee counties, have kicked off quickly this year with 15 home sites under contract. The swift sales pace follows a strong year in 2013, with 32 lot closings. At this year’s Parade of Homes, The Concession will feature two new models – the brand new Verona by Lee Wetherington Homes and the award winning Amalfi, by Arthur Rutenberg Homes. Several other new models will open this year, creating a new “model row” in The Concession featuring additional top regional builders including: John Neal Homes, Anchor Builders, John Cannon Homes, and Holliday Builders. theconcession.com
JOINT COMMISSION AWARDS SMH ADVANCED CERTIFICATION IN HEART FAILURE & STROKE Sarasota Memorial earned re-certification for its congestive heart failure program and for stroke care. To be certified, the hospital programs underwent a rigorous, on-site evaluation by The Joint Commission late last year. The Joint Commission’s Disease-Specific Care Certification Program, launched in 2002, evaluates clinical programs across the continuum of care. SMH’s program is the only Comprehensive Stroke Center in Southwest Florida. smh.com
SARASOTA OPERA TO HOST “HOMAGE TO VERDI” EXHIBIT FROM ROME OPERA HOUSE Sarasota Opera will host an exhibition from the Rome Opera House entitled “Homage to Giuseppe Verdi; Celebrating the Bicentennial of his Birth” March 8 - March 25, 2014. The exhibition, underwritten by Piero and Rachele Rivolta, tells the story of the most famous performances of Verdi’s operas, and of the great performers, singers, set designers, and costume designers who have kept the legend of Giuseppe Verdi alive. sarasotaopera.org
ALL FAITHS FOOD BANK RECEIVES $25,000 FROM SEASON OF SHARING FUND All Faiths Food Bank received a grant of $25,000 from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County to be used for purchasing meat and protein items for local families in need. The gift is from the Season of Sharing Fund, an annual philanthropic fund created by the Herald-Tribune Media Group and the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, supported by private, corporate, and foundation donors. Since its inception in 2000, the Season of Sharing campaign has raised more than $10 million to help individuals and families in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and DeSoto counties to avert homelessness. allfaithsfoodbank.org | cfsarasota.org
NEW COLLEGE MOVES UP TO NATION’S NO. 2 “BEST VALUE” IN PRINCETON REVIEW New College of Florida has been ranked the No. 2 “Best Value Public College in America” for 2014 by The Princeton Review, one of America’s bestknown education services companies, and as reported by USA Today. New College moved up one place in the rankings, from the No. 3 position last year. New College is one of only three other U.S. public colleges have made Princeton Review’s top ten for all six years. princetonreview.com | ncf.edu
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March 2014
HERON EAST RECEIVES 2013 EXCELLENCE AWARD Over one hundred residents and guests attended the Heron East Assisted Living Senior Advisor 2013 Excellence Award presentation and party. Heron East was recognized as one of the top Assisted Living communities in 2013 from SeniorAdvisor.com, the online ratings and reviews site for senior living communities nationwide. The SeniorAdvisor. Accepting the Award, Barry Landreth-Heron East Executive Director and Lorraine Vachon, com Excellence Award recognizes Heron East Sales and Marketing senior living communities who receive consistently high ratings and positive reviews from residents, families, and visitors. The award is an exclusive designation and is awarded to less than one percent of senior living communities nationwide.
BGCMC RECEIVES GRANT Sixty teen members of Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County (BGCMC) will benefit from a $20,100 grant awarded by the Taco Bell Foundation for Teens. The funds will support BGCMC’s Career Camp programming at Southeast High School and Harllee Middle School. Career Camp gives teens an understanding of the skills required to enter the workforce and inspires them to graduate high school and reach their full potential. Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County is one of more than 300 teen-serving organizations nationwide to receive a portion of $3 million granted by the Taco Bell Foundation for Teens this year. tacobellforteens.org | bgcmanatee.org
SMHF GRANTS $3.3 MILLION FOR COMMUNITY HEALTHCARE Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, Inc.’s (SMHF) board of trustees approved grants totaling $3,373,959, bringing the total of grants made in the first quarter of the fiscal year to more than $3.6 million. Since 1976, the Foundation has made grants totaling $54 million and has raised $76 million. Grants include: $2,232,840 for renovations and upgrades for the seven pods with a total of 62 beds in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU); $445,117 for an ultrasound endoscope used primarily by gastroenterologists and pulmonologists in the endoscopy suite; $350,000 for five zero-gravity radiation protection shields for the catheterization labs and operating room. smhf.org
COLLABORATION HELPS VETERANS ACHIEVE THE AMERICAN DREAM OF HOME OWNERSHIP Goodwill Manasota and Habitat for Humanity South Sarasota County have joined forces to provide housing for veterans and their families. The collaboration is helping veterans throughout south Sarasota County, in areas including Osprey, Laurel, Nokomis, Venice, North Port, and Englewood. Goodwill Manasota and Habitat for Humanity hope to reach a wider range of veterans looking for help, advising them of all of the services available at both agencies, which in many cases complement each other. habitatsouthsarasota.org | experiencegoodwill.org scenesarasota.com
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New HOPE for Heart Disease
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When you suffer from severe aortic stenosis, you give up much of what makes life enjoyable, but don’t give up HOPE. Blake Medical Center is one of the select hospitals in the nation approved to provide transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) for those considered high risk or inoperable using traditional valve replacement surgery. Isn’t it time you take back your life?
Edwards SAPIEN Valve
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2020 59th Street West, Bradenton 941-792-6611 BlakeMedicalCenter.com