May 2012

CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY FOR 55 YEARS

BELINDA COFFRIN A Community Gem

Transitioning Sarasota Planning Your Future The Issue of Aging Dickie V One-on-One May Book.indd 1

MAY 2012 $3.95 U.S.

4/17/12 3:51:16 PM

EMBRACE THE EXPERIENCE

THE CONCESSION GOLF CLUB Where Golf is our Priority

The Concession, an award-winning Signature Jack Nicklaus Golf Course, designed in association ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� in dining at Bistro at The Concession, where Members have access to a variety of exceptional culinary services. To inquire about Membership opportunities, or schedule a private tour for your special event call 941-322-1922 or visit: www.TheConcession.com.

INSPIRED PERFORMANCE THE WAY OF

2012 Infiniti M

Starting From

COAST INFINITI

$48,595

“A True Luxury Experience”

We invite you to come in and experience the redesigned M Series. With a combination of Performance, Luxury and Value, The Infiniti M Series is a Consumer’s Best Choice.

Why Coast Infiniti?

• A Family Owned & Operated Facility Built Around Trust & Integrity For Over 35 Years.

• Florida’s Highest Rated Sales & Service Department.

• Complimentary Infiniti Premier Loaner Service with VIP Service Card.

2124 Bee Ridge Road • Sarasota, FL 34239 941.924.1211 • coastinfiniti.com

Quality You Can See & Feel In today’s highly competitive luxury market, it isn’t enough to engineer vehicles that provide great performance and equip them with all the latest amenities. In addition, customers must be able to immediately sense the vehicles quality. To realize excellent perceived quality, designing and engineering must be in harmony with each other. Infiniti conducts extensive research on what customers want and how they use the car and then carefully quantify each element.

By studying why someone feels good when he or she touches things, rather than what he or she likes, we can make things that feel good to everyone. A new synthetic leather material is used for armrests, which are in constant contact with people’s hands. With the softness of a fingerpad and a surface texture similar to a fingerprint, it creates the soft, comfortable feeling of a baby’s skin. The inside of the door trim pull handle is an area where a good feel to the touch is required. Infiniti M’s instrument panel uses a synthetic material that is structurally similar to real leather.

This provides a soft feeling and higher durability than genuine leather. What is important is not only the overall impression of the design, but also the detailed design cues that stimulate feelings of higher quality.

The automotive press is recognizing the quality of the 2012 Infiniti M. Each year, Popular Mechanics recognizes the best in automotive design, execution and technology for the Automotive Excellence Awards. The magazine’s editors test drive more than 100 vehicles over 100,000 miles to determine the best vehicle in ten categories, ranging from off-road ability to versatility. After extended test drives, instrumented comparison tests and longer-term evaluations, the top 2012 luxury vehicle was awarded to the Infiniti M37/M56.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the 2012 Infiniti M a Top Safety Pick. The Infiniti M received the best possible score across all four of the IIHS tests – frontal offset, side impact, roof strength, and rear crash protection.

The 2012 Infiniti M has recently been named “Auto Interior of the Year” in the premium-priced car category by Ward’s AutoWorld magazine.

Designed to honor excellence in automotive interiors, winners were chosen by a team of eight Ward’s editors using criteria that included aesthetics and design harmony, comfort, ergonomics, fit and finish, materials, safety and overall value.

coastinfiniti.com

contentsfeatures fiftytwo Wealth & Retirement May 2012

40

Volume 55 No. 5

Belinda Coffrin & Coffrin Jewelers A Community Gem Sue Cullen

44

The Issue of Aging Sarasota’s Institute for the Ages Ryan G. Van Cleave

48

Building Wealth From the Ground Up Transition Sarasota Steven J. Smith

52

Grand Cypress Golf Resort & Academy State of the Art at its Finest

48

40

CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY FOR 55 YEARS

BELINDA COFFRIN

A Community Gem

Our Aging Population Planning Your Future Transitioning Sarasota Dickie V One-on-One

Cover / Family-owned Coffrin Jewelers is a gem of a place found among the picturesque shops and restaurants in Sarasota’s Southside Village.

Photo of Belinda Coffrin by Rob Villetto | Villetto Photography.

N o r t o n ,

H a m m e r s l e y ,

L o p e z

&

S k o k o s ,

P . A .

Tax, Estate Planning and Corporate attorneys John Compton, and John Lopez

Traditional Values.

Fresh Ideas.

For more than 20 years, Gulf Coast residents and businesses have trusted Norton-Hammersley for proactive counsel and personal commitment. With eleven attorneys practicing corporate, tax, real estate, construction, banking and probate law, as well as estate planning and litigation, Norton-Hammersley has earned Martindale-Hubbell’s highest rating. Visit www.nhlslaw.com or call us to learn more.

Sarasota City Center Suite 610 1819 Main Street Sarasota, FL 34236 Phone: (941) 954-4691 Fax (941) 954-2128

www.nhlslaw.com

contents

60 36

66

56 Arts & Culture

Health

31

88

Culture Matters

The Visual Arts

89

John & Suzy Seerey-Lester

78

Curtain Call Steven J. Smith Reviews Local Theatre

80

Performing Arts Calendar Get Your Tickets to the Best Performances

Education 34

The Ringling Art Experience Spotlighting Ringling College of Art & Design

69

Giving 36

Leaving a Heart Print on the World Gordie White Steven J. Smith

82

Stories of Joy Community Philanthropy with Joy Weston

63

Jonathan Yuris, MD

Locally 87 90

15 18 22

Community News, Appointments and Awards

AJC Human Relations Award Dinner Ninth Annual Coast Cadillac Laurel Oak Cup

Out-of-Door Academy’s Banyan Ball • Woman’s Exchange Volunteer Luncheon • Senior Friendship Centers “You Bet Your Life”

68 71 73

Girls Inc. of Sarasota Celebration Luncheon Compeer Gulfcoast Spring Fundraiser Behind the Scene Debbi Benedict Gives the Latest Society Scoop

81

WRCSC Renaissance Luncheon

Be Scene Calendar of Events

26 27 28

64

New Around Town

Social

Education Matters Amazing Minds and Intellectual Happenings by Ryan G. Van Cleave

What to Do About a Hernia

• Ringling College’s An Evening at the Avant-Garde • South Florida Museum Couture in the Courtyard

Thyroid Eye Disease Dr. Paul Brannan

Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

66

47

Selby Gardens Orchid Ball

Up Close 56

Asolo Rep Gala Ragtime Revival

Scenes From An Interview Gus Mollasis Interviews Dick Vitale

Glitz at the Ritz

60

SFF: Conversations With Filmmakers A Peek Inside the Film Festival with Gus Mollasis

scene | from the editor

I

n preparing this issue themed Wealth & Retirement, the first question that popped into my head was, “How do we define the wealth of our community?” There are so many

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ways to think about wealth. We already know the obvious – our beautiful community

attracts many people of wealth from around the world. We certainly have our fair share of expensive homes, high-end cars, the best beaches, boating, fine restaurants, the arts and much more. But we all know wealth is defined by a whole lot more than the size of our bank accounts.

Just recently, I attended Florida Winefest’s brunch and charity auction to benefit numerous local children’s charities. SCENE has been a sponsor of Winefest since its

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inception 21 years ago. Premium and harder-to-find wines along with food and wine-

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centered vacations were expertly auctioned by a seasoned pro from Christie’s auction

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house. As the auction of each lot went fast and furious, so did the dollars. The estimated

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their help – awesome.

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value of each lot was met and more often far exceeded. “Wow,” I thought. This is terrific for the charities – so many people raising their paddles in support of children who need But what happened at Winefest was indicative of what happened all season long.

With SCENE sponsoring close to 40 events this season, I witnessed much of the same generosity at every event I attended. In addition to nonprofit fundraisers, giving initiatives spearheaded by our local foundations resulted in millions of dollars raised for local charities. There is no doubt that the wealth of the people of our community is most evident in their giving spirit.

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So no matter the size of your bank account, I urge you to continue giving what you can in support of community nonprofits. With so many people giving, even if it is just a little, the result means a lot. Securing the needs of the most vulnerable today secures our future as a community and that definition of wealth is immeasurable.

12

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May 2012

scenesarasota.com

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scene

Locally Owned, Operated & Printed For More Than 55 Years CEO/Publisher: Ronald Milton

Wondering What Your Rare Coin or Collectible is Really Worth?

Trust Only the Most Qualified Person:

A Collector Mark Cooper of Cooper Enterprises of Sarasota, Inc. is widely known for his professional expertise in correctly valuing old coins and collectibles getting top dollar for his client’s treasures.

Not sure you have a treasure?

Recent Finds:

Executive Editor: Julie A. Milton

• Old Charm Bracelet with a Rare US Coin (Value: $3,000)

Editorial Assistant: Adwoa Gyimah-Brempong

• Rare 1943 Copper Cent

Senior Account Executive: Wanda Martinetto

(Sold at Auction for $300,000)

• 1st Edition of Mark Twain’s Tom Sawyer (Sold to a NY Collector for the price of a new car)

Member: Antique & Coin Collectors Association

Give Mark a call and find out.

Located in the Prestigious Lakewood Ranch Corporate Park 7353 International Pl, Ste 301 • Sarasota, FL 34240 • 941.373.6600 HOME APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

Special Issue Director: Debbi Benedict Art and Production Director: Michelle Cross Contributing Writers: Debbi Benedict, Sue Cullen, Gus Mollasis, Steven J. Smith Ryan G. Van Cleave, Joy Weston Photographers: Keith A. Millard, Cliff Roles, Rob Villetto Principal Office & Mailing Address: 7269 Bee Ridge Road Sarasota, FL 34241 941-365-1119 • Fax: 941-954-5067 SCENESARASOTA.COM SCENE Magazine publishes 12 issues a year by RJM Ventures, LLC. Address editorial, advertising and circulation correspondence to the above address. Sufficient return postage and self-addressed, stamped envelope must accompany all manuscripts, art work and photographs submitted if they are to be returned or acknowledged.

Publisher assumes no responsibility for care of return of unsolicited materials. Subscription price: $12.95 per year, $19.95 for two years. All contents copyrighted. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. ISSN 1535-8895.

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

374 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota

14

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May 2012

. 941.388.1964 . www.ohmygauze.com Get the free mobile app for your phone

http:/ / gettag.mobi

scenesarasota.com

scene | social AJC 2012 HUMAN RELATIONS AWARD DINNER

E

rnie and Alisa Kretzmer were honored with the American Jewish

Live life your way.

Committee’s prestigious 2012 Human Relations Award at a gala

dinner at Michael’s On East. This award is bestowed annually on individuals who uplift the shared life of their community, which the Kretzmers have done for decades through their support of the arts, education, social services, and Jewish causes. Musical tributes were performed by Richard Storm of the Key Chorale and Margot Zarzycka, violinist of the Sarasota Orchestra; they were accompanied on the piano

Photography by Cliff Roles

by Lee Dougherty Ross of the Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota.

Ernie & Alisa Kretzmer

Fran & Harold Blum

Choosing Freedom Village Bradenton means that you have made a conscious decision to pursue life on your terms. As a Freedom Village resident you will always have that opportunity. Our community offers many lifestyles and care options to meet your needs – even if they change over time.

Vibrant Social Atmosphere Access to Continuing Care as needed Superior Dining Rehabilitation, Fitness and Education Exceptional Amenities Ilene Friedman & Sandra Orlando

Bill & Lois Cohodas

Call (888) 904-2951 today to schedule your personal visit or to be added to our mailing list.

From right to left: Carol Berry Director of Sales & Marketing Eleanor Lee Sales Counselor Kelly King Marketing & Event Coordinator

Brian Lipton, Sue Jacobson & Chaim Shacham

Your story continues here...

A Life Care Community 6406 21st Avenue West Bradenton, FL 34209 www.brookdaleliving.com Don & Marie Monsky with Marilyn & Irvin Naditsch scenesarasota.com

51280EF-ROP01-0512-LB

May 2012

| scene

15

Family

is Life.

Enjoy it to the Fullest.

Laurel Oak

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

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

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

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

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

Secure your spot in one of Sarasota’s finest family country clubs. Schedule a private tour today.

941-378-3399 2700 Gary Player Blvd.

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

scene | social

T

9th Annual Coast Cadillac Laurel Oak Cup

his pro-am tournament benefiting Special Olympics in Sarasota County, hosted 250 players, 328 dinner patrons and raised $90,000, making this year’s event the most successful since its inception. Mark Guthrie, Laurel Oak

resident and former pitcher for the world champion Minnesota Twins, served and Honorary Chairman and comedian Les McCurdy served as event auctioneer. Event presenting sponsor was Coast Cadillac. Other major sponsors included The Ernie B. Garcia Group at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney; Paradise Homes; Laurel Oak Country Club; Scene Magazine,

Photography by Cliff Roles

ABC 7, and Michelob Ultra Golf Tour.

Bob & Sue Harrigan

Lori & Jim Lander

Chris & Mike Coviello

18

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May 2012

Tammy & Dave Whalen

Bob Ouderkirk & Christine Bolton

Les McCurdy, Lyndsey Bergeon & Craig Edwards

Sam Norton, Sherry Edwards, Ernie Garcia & Suzy Farbman

Jim Butler, Patti Garcia, Andrea Guthrie, Sharon Butler & Mark Guthrie scenesarasota.com

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

KEY TAX CHANGES FOR 2012 – AND BEYOND Courtesy of:

Ernie B. Garcia

Senior Vice President - Wealth Management - Morgan Stanley Smith Barney

A

lthough

tax

15% to 20%. The capital gains tax is

scheduled

zero (subject to income limitations) in

to take effect until 2013,

2012 for investors in the 10% and 15%

when many of the tax breaks enacted

ordinary income marginal tax brackets,

since 2001 will expire, there are

but it is slated to resume in 2013 for

several changes for 2012 you’ll want

those individuals.

changes

no are

major

to be aware of as you plan your tax strategies for the coming year.

Planning tip: It may make sense to lock in capital gains in 2012 at the lower

This is shaping up to be a pivotal year for American taxpayers, as many key tax breaks enacted over

rates, or to postpone capital losses until 2013, when they will be worth more if used to offset gains.

the past decade are scheduled to come off the books at the end of 2012. You may want to start planning ahead now to focus on

Dividends

the changes planned for 2013—and what you can do to take

The top tax rate on qualified dividends remains at 15% in 2012.

advantage of current tax breaks before they expire.

However, this special rate is scheduled to go away in 2013, and dividends will again be taxed as ordinary income—at a top rate

Ordinary Income

of 39.6%.

Existing tax rates on ordinary income, which range from 10% to a maximum of 35%, are unchanged in 2012. Next year,

AMT Exemption

however, rate brackets will revert to those in place before 2001,

The federal alternative minimum tax (AMT) rules permit an

which ran as high as 39.6%, unless Congress elects to extend

exemption from the AMT, which has been raised annually

current rates.

in recent years. But as the law currently stands, all previous adjustments to that AMT exemption were eliminated. Thus, for

Capital Gains

income earned in 2012, the applicable AMT exemption will drop

The top tax rate on long-term capital gains (profits on investments

from $74,450 to $45,000 for joint filers and from $48,450 to

held more than one year) is set to rise after December 31, from

$33,750 for single filers unless Congress raises them.

s investment advice is an important part of a comprehensive wealth advice about your estate, your business, your philanthropic giving, your

That said, Congress has raised the AMT exemption retroactively Tax stock position and your lending needs. At Morgan Stanley SmithEstate Barney, in past years and has the power do so again for 2012. Those

The estate tax exemption for 2012 rose to $5.12 million ($10.24

exemptions have typically been increased during the tax year

million for couples), from $5 million in 2011. But that exemption

they were effective, and Congress has waited until as late as

is scheduled to drop to $1 million in 2013 and the estate tax rate

full range of services to help you grow, protect and transfer your wealth.

mail me December for a complimentary consultation to discuss how I can to pass the increase. is set to jump from 35% to 55%.

with your wealth planning goals and objectives.

PS-1725

Retirement Accounts

Planning tip: Now may be an ideal time to begin looking for ways

The maximum allowable pre-tax contribution to employer-

to reduce the value of your taxable estate, such as by placing

sponsored retirement plans, including 401(k) and 403(b) plans,

assets in trusts or by gifting them to individuals.

increased to $17,000 in 2012 from $16,500 in 2011.

Ernie B. Garcia

There’s no telling if Congress will elect to extend all, some or

Contribution limits for IRAs, on the other hand, are unchanged

none of the expiring breaks before year-end. So it’s wise to plan

meaning more high-income filers may be eligible to use these

needs in 2012 and beyond.

2 North Tamiami Trail,theSuite 1100 accounts. For married couples filing jointly, contribution Sarasota, Florida 34236 phase-out range increased to between $173,000 and $183,000.

For More Information

Senior Vice President - Wealth Management this year. But the Roth IRA income phase-out range increased, ahead. Let me help you identify the right tax strategies for your Senior Investment Management Consultant

941.364.7405 800.237.9441 ext. 405

For single filers, the range is now between $110,000 and

If you’d like to learn more, please contact Ernie B. Garcia,

$125,000.

941.364.7405, www.fa.smithbarney.com/ernie_garcia.

ernie.b.garcia@mssb.com www.fa.smithbarney.com/ernie_garcia

Ernie B. Garcia Senior Vice President - Wealth Management Senior Investment Management Consultant This information is not intended to be tax advice and should not be treated as such. Each individual’s tax situation is different. You should contact your tax professional to discuss your personal situation.

27 Years of Experience

Call or email me for a complimentary consultation and a second opinion of your investment portfolio.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney and its Financial Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice, are not “fiduciaries”( underStanley ERISA, the Internal Revenue or otherwise) Morgan Smith Barney LLC,Code its affiliates andwith Morgan Stanley Smith Barney respect to the services or activities described herein, and this material was not intended Financial Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice.

This material was not intended or written to be used for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed on writtenconsult to be their usedpersonal for the tax purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed the taxpayer. Individualsorshould and legal advisors tax before making any tax or legal related on the decisions. taxpayer. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation

and tax planning their attorney for matters involving The author(s) and/or publication are neitherand employees of nor affiliated with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“MSSB”).

By providing this third party publication, we are not and other legal matters. implying an affiliation, sponsorship, endorsement, approval, investigation, verification or monitoring by MSSB of any information contained in the publication.

trust and estate planning

941.364.7405

800.237.9441 ext. 405 ©2010 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC

The opinions expressed by the authors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of MSSB. The information and data in the article or publication has been obtained from sources outside of MSSB and MSSB makes no representations or guarantees as to the accuracy or completeness of information or data from sources outside of MSSB. Neither the information provided nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation

by MSSB with respect to the purchase or sale of any security, investment, strategy or product that may be mentioned.

Article written by McGraw Hill and provided courtesy of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Financial Advisor Ernie B. Garcia. © Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

ernie.b.garcia@mssb.com Please visit my website for timely news and articles:

www.fa.smithbarney.com/ernie_garcia Follow me on

479592-4/12

2 North Tamiami Trail, Suite 1100, Sarasota, Florida 34236

@ErnieGMSSB

bescene

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

Selby Gardens photo by Cliff Roles.

SPARCCLE on the Links Golf Tournament May 3 Plantation Golf & Country Club. Benefits the Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC).

Tickets: $ 95 | 941.365.0208 x106 | sparcc.net

4th Annual Tee it Up for the CRC Golf Tournament May 4 Heritage Oaks Golf and Country Club 7:30 am. Goodie bag bonus, gift certificates, and prizes. Benefits Senior Friendship Centers Caregiver Resource Center. Tickets: $100 | 941.556.3205 | friendshipcenters.org

First Step’s 8th Annual Golf Classic May 4 Misty Creek Country Club 8:30 am. 3rd Annual Golf Ball drop held in conjunction with a tournament that includes breakfast, golf, raffle prizes and lunch. All proceeds benefit First Step’s prevention and recovery programs. Tickets: $ 125 | 941.552.2065 | fsos.org

4th Annual Payton Wright Foundation Golf Tournament May 4 Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club 10:00 am. Dinner, live music, and silent auction.

Benefits the Payton Wright Foundation. Tickets: $50-$200 | 941.228.4886 | paytonwright.org

11th Annual Physicians Golf Tournament May 4 Laurel Oak Country Club 11:30 am. Includes golf, cart, lunch buffet, awards dinner and all beverages. Benefits Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation. Tickets: $295 | 941.917.1286 | smh.com

Relay for Life of Venice May 4 Venice Airport Festival Grounds 6:00 pm. Walk, arts and crafts, food, games, and a luminaria ceremony. Benefits the American Cancer Society. 941.493.0702 | relayforlife.org

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May 2012

scenesarasota.com

Classic Corvettes on the Circle May 5 St. Armand’s Circle Park 10:00 am. Over 200 original classic Corvettes, dating from 1953 to the present, will be on display in the Circle.

Open to the public. starmandscircleassoc.com

YMCA Foundation’s Cirque du Gold May 5 Frank G. Berlin YMCA 6:00 pm. Dinner, auctions, raffles, entertainment and dancing. Benefits YMCA Foundation of Sarasota. Tickets: $250 | 941.951.1336 | thesarasotay.org

The Community Music School of Southwest Florida Kentucky Derby Party May 5 Private home in the Oaks Bayside 5:00 pm. Dinner, music, auction and the race on a big-screen TV, sponsored by Rotary Club of Sarasota Keys Foundation. Tickets: $59 | 941.587.4026

Laughter Unlimited Luncheon May 8 Hyatt Regency, Sarasota 11:00 am. Benefits Circus Sarasota.

Reservations required | 941.355.9335 | circussarasota.org

Hurricane Bash Golf Tournament & Celebrity Chef Showcase May 11 University Park Country Club 1:00 pm. Benefits American Red Cross. Tickets: $50-$1,000 | 941.379.9300 x255 | flwestcoastredcross.org/ hurricanegolf

Friends of the Sarasota Ballet’s Showcase Luncheon May 14 Michael’s on East 11:30 am. Featuring highlights of the ballet season. Tickets: $35 | 941.359.0099 | sarasotaballet.org

Early Learning Coalition’s Celebrity Roast May 18 Bradenton Municipal Auditorium 6:00 pm. Featuring Gary Kompothecras of 1-800-Ask-Gary. Catering by Harry’s Continental Kitchens includes dinner, open bar, and a small live auction. Benefits the Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County, Inc. Tickets: $100 | 941.757.2900 x209 | elc-manatee.org

7th Annual Dick Vitale Gala May 18 Ritz-Carlton Sarasota 6:30 pm. Sarasota’s Dick Vitale hosts his annual gala to raise funds for the V Foundation for Cancer Research.

Honorees include Lou Holtz, Jay Wright & Gary Williams. After-Party featuring The Spinners. Tickets: $1,000 | 919.380.9505 or 941.350.

0580 | jimmyv.org

From GALA to Gershwin May 19 Holley Hall 8:00 pm. Showcases the history of GALA choruses with a review of GALA choruses’ evolution from the civil rights era through today. Tickets: $22-30 | 888.550.6279 | diversitysarasota.org

BGC Manatee’s Dancing with Our Stars May 19 Palmetto Club 6:00 pm. Move and groove with six local celebrity couples and enjoy dining and a live band. Benefits the Boys and Girls Clubs of Manatee County. Tickets: $100 | 941.761.2582 | bgcofmanatee.org

Sarasota Area Sports Alliance Scholarship Recognition Event May 22 Holiday Inn Lakewood Ranch 11:30 am. Annual scholarships will be awarded to local student athletes; keynote speaker is Steve Shenbaum from Game on Nation. Tickets: $25 | 941.350.3464 | sarasotaareasportsalliance.org scenesarasota.com

May 2012

| scene

23

Laurel Ridge Country Club

Enjoy championship golf, tennis, swimming & fine dining

Laurel Ridge Country Club is the perfect gathering place to redezvous with old friends and make new ones!

Smoky Mountain Retreat

& the

Together they create an unparalleled lifestyle in the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina The Smoky Mountain Retreat is nestled among the picturesque mountains of Western North Carolina only minutes from the Laurel Ridge Clubhouse. Plan a visit and stay in one of our luxury log home rentals while you search for your own dream home in the mountains.

We have a large inventory of home sites and completed homes, with breathtaking views

AT BARGAIN PRICES The market is improving rapidly but there is still time to find an exceptional buy!

Wa y n e s v i l l e , N o r t h C a r o l i n a

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF A BUYERS MARKET! HOUSE/LOT PACKAGES FROM Contact Ron at 941.288.4282 or email at laurelridgeron@verizon.net

$275,000

scene | social SELBY GARDENS

2012 ORCHID BALL

T

he theme for this year’s Orchid Ball, An Evening at Versailles, provided a spectacular setting on the Grand Photography by Cliff Roles

Lawn at Selby Gardens. More than 300 hundred guests – many in 18th century period French costumes – waltzed and mingled amid the stately banyan trees under a balmy spring sky. Event co-chairs Kristiana Serbin and Sheryl Vieira, along with their hard working committee, did a fabulous job of staging the affair which raises money for the important conservation, botanical research, education and horticultural displays that make up the Selby Gardens mission.

Marge & Vinnie Maisto

26

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May 2012

Kristiana Serbin & Sheryl Viera

Ann Logan & Tom Buchter

Albert Joerger with Cornelia & Dick Matson Dr. Robert Hillstrom, Peter Hayes & Rick Fawley

Wendy & Jerry Feinstein

scenesarasota.com

scene | social

GLITZ AT THE RITZ T

he 11th Annual Glitz at the Ritz-Carlton Luncheon

honored Margot and Warren Coville with the Photography by Cliff Roles

Schoenbaum Humanitarian Award. This year’s program theme was “Creating Miracles in Sarasota.”

A tribute was made for the wonderful contributions the Covilles have made to the local arts community and education. The luncheon event proceeds go towards funding the life-changing programs at The Salvation Army Center of Hope in downtown Sarasota.

Julie Riddell & Linda Ballou

Marilyn Bezner with Warren & Margot Coville

Michelle Crabtree, Alice & David Rau & Barbara Lewis

Marcia Sohl & Glenda Leonard

Betsy Coville, Scott Anderson, Andria Bilan & Judy Cahn

ENJOY YOUR BACKYARD WITH YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS IN THE PERFECT OUTDOOR SETTING.

Lloyd/Flanders

Patio Factory Supercenter 5615 14th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34207 • 941-739-7711

3855 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL 34232 • 941-925-1986

www.patiofactorysupercenter.com

scenesarasota.com

May 2012

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27

scene | social ASOLO REP

R

2012 GALA – RAGTIME REVIVAL

agtime was revived at the Asolo Repertory Theatre’s 2012 Annual Gala. Over 500 guests attended this elegant evening at The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art Photography by Cliff Roles

Courtyard. The event included an exclusive silent auction, classic dining from Michael’s On East, ragtime performances from the FSU/Asolo Conservatory acting students, and music from Tampa’s well-known DeLeon Orchestra. Another highlight of the evening was the assortment of live auction packages, including both a long weekend to London with Asolo Rep’s Producing Artistic Director Michael Donald Edwards and a week-long trip to Toronto and the surrounding theatre communities of Stratford and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Toronto natives Carolyn Keystone and Jim Meekison successfully chaired the event, raising funds to benefit the Asolo’s 2011-12 season.

Dennis Rees & Felice Schulaner

Pamela Hughes & Michael Evers

Roger & Judith Lambert with Howard Phillips

Rich & Janice Segall

Judy & Byron Shinn

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scene | arts & culture PRESENTED BY:

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May offers the chance to Embrace Our Differences, groove to La Bamba, experience a delightful choral collaboration, and revisit the classics.

1) Embracing Our Differences Through May 28 Embracing Our Differences returns to Island Park for its ninth year. Visitors will enjoy 39 billboard-sized artworks and written expressions celebrating diversity and created by local, national and international artists. Since its inception in 2004, the exhibit has been viewed by more than 1.1 million people. The 2012 exhibit drew a record-setting number of submissions – 4,502 representing 53 countries and 40 states.

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Why It Matters: The goal of Embracing Our Differences is to provide, through the arts, an opportunity for the community to reflect upon and deepen the awareness that respecting the views of others and standing up against hatred and prejudice will lead to a better world for everyone. As an international language, art transcends all cultures to demonstrate that respect is not only a way of thinking, but – most importantly – of acting.

2) La Bamba May 2-5 Following a sold-out Pops season, the Sarasota Orchestra concludes the 2011-2012 Great Escapes concert series with Latin dance rhythms and festive beats in La Bamba. The music keeps getting better with this spicy concert that highlights the talents of Maestro Dirk Meyer and the Sarasota Orchestra. La

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Bamba mixes Pops and light classical works with rhythms from Latin America. Come celebrate Cinco de Mayo with the Sarasota Orchestra while enjoying some south of the border classics, including La Bamba, España Cani, and Conga del Fuego Nuevo.

Why It Matters: The concert pays tribute to Latino music, while engaging audiences in music they may remember from the big screen. Johnny Depp fans may recognize Badelt and Ricketts’ Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl. Wrapping up La Bamba, audience members will still be sure to enjoy a tribute to the “Queen of Latin Pop,” Gloria Estefan.

3) Trio of Choral Ensembles May 6 Celebrate the choral arts as three of Sarasota’s finest vocal ensembles are presented in concert by Faith

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Lutheran Church. In this premiere joint performance, Sarasota Young Voices, Belle Canto and Gloria Musicae will perform a varied program, including selections by Rodgers and Hammerstein from favorite musicals and other lighter musical fare.

Why It Matters: This collaboration is intended primarily to introduce new audiences to three highly regarded choral ensembles and to support the local arts culture by promoting artistic collaborations.

This concert will allow all three ensembles to share their resources, audiences, and talents. Additionally, all concert proceeds will be split among the three organizations so that each can develop its programs for the upcoming season.

4) Driving Miss Daisy May 8-20 Venice Theatre’s MainStage presents the now-classic sentimental comedy, Driving Miss Daisy. Spanscenesarasota.com

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ning 25 years in the lives of a stubborn Southern matriarch and her proud chauffeur, Driving Miss Daisy won the 1988 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and was adapted into an Oscar-winning film. Venice Theatre’s Executive/Artistic Director, Murray Chase, directs the show which stars Suzanne Coccia as Daisy, Autry Davis as Hoke, and Mike Gilbert as Daisy’s son Boolie.

Why It Matters: At a time when discussions of race continue to make local and national headlines, the relationship between Ms. Daisy and Hoke matters now more than ever. The story takes place in the South, post-WWII through 1973. That, of course, sets a good part of the action during the Civil Rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s. Audiences have the chance to connect with two characters from separate cultures as they steer their relationship through changing times.

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

As we gear up for our long, hot summer, we’ll be behind the scene working our summer issues: rience

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May 2012

June/July Real Estate Issue Homes are selling, New Developments are Sprouting, the Luxury Market is Back

August Beach Reads Scene proudly features short stories from notable local and Florida authors.

The perfect issue for a lazy summer afternoon and to share with friends. www.scenesarasota.com

scenesarasota.com

Name: Michael Long, 3rd Year Student Focus: Environmental Studies Claim to Fame: Youngest student to serve on the Florida Board of Governors Charts his own course: He calls his 30-foot sail boat home. “Living in the environment I hope to protect one day makes me feel like I have a purpose.”

a new world needs new college In an age in which higher education is increasingly impersonal, New College of Florida continues to provide promising young men and women with a remarkable and affordable education, tailored to each student’s interests and talents. We provide them with the guidance, encouragement and resources needed to fulfill their potential, to live happy, varied and productive lives dedicated to making the world a better place. This has been our legacy for 50 years, and it remains our vision and guiding philosophy for the future.

Please join us in keeping The [New] College Promise to future generations.

Amazing Minds. Limitless Possibilities.

New College Foundation, Inc. (941) 487-4800

ncf.edu/foundation

foundation@ncf.edu

E C N E I R E P X E T R A G N I THERINGL

BY RYAN G.

VAN CLEAVE

Scene Magazine pays tribute to John Ringling’s tradition of supporting local art and artists with “The Ringling Art Experience.” Each featured artist has a connection with the Ringling College of Art and Design, named in honor of this great man. What better way to continue John Ringling’s arts commitment than to provide a forum for the exciting new work being created right here on the Culture Coast?

B. PAUL PATTERSON Born in Elkhorn, Nebraska, B. Paul Patterson moved to North Port, Florida with his family in 2006. While he kept himself busy as a freelance photojournalist

for

Harbor

Style

Magazine, he never lost sight of his goal — getting a degree in photography from the Ringling College of Art + Design. What appealed to him about the school was the way Ringling presented itself in its promotional materials and tours. He also found the advertised high percentage of working graduates and various companies that were mentioned as recruiters and employers of alumni really exciting: we all know how tough it is for artists to make a living in this economy.

The landscape of photography is changing, notes Patterson. Thanks to high quality point-and-shoot cameras, “smaller and less technically oriented jobs that would once provide income to trained photographers can now be performed by laymen in the course of other professions (real estate photography, simple surveying work, etc).” But equally important are the cultural ramifications. We now have “citizen journalists” who can witness important world events and “share ‘truths’ photographically through social media with much more transparency and speed than what was previously expected from the traditional news media.” About the power of these new experiences, Patterson adds, “I don’t think the public (or anyone, honestly) has fully grasped the power that ubiquitous photography combined with social media is exerting (and will evolve to exert) on our culture.”

Patterson has his share of artistic and academic honors. A Ringling College Trustee Scholarship. Seven semesters on the President’s List. His work included in numerous exhibitions both on and off campus. The reason he’s receiving so much attention is his approach to making art in the post-image

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era. “I see my process as very experimental. I’m more interested in creating realities than portraying something static,” he explains. “A lot of the ideas and techniques I pursue are outside of what many folks, even some of my professors, would consider pure photography. Video is also becoming a consideration for anyone with a digital SLR (single lens reflex camera), and image processing software is becoming more and more capable of generating realities that are far beyond what is simply captured with the camera. I’m really excited for what will become possible in the coming years.”

What’s next for Patterson? While searching for a job after graduation, he intends to apply for artist residencies and continue to build connections as well as develop his portfolio. “One job that’s in demand? College-level photography professors,” he adds. But that requires graduate school – which isn’t out of the question for someone of his skill. For more information, please visit www.bpaulpatterson.com Ryan G. Van Cleave (ryangvancleave.com) is a Sarasota-based freelance writer & writing coach. scenesarasota.com

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scene | giving

Leaving a ‘Heart Print’ on the World As we honor mothers in the month of May, SCENE proudly features the philanthropy of Gordie White, a loving mother and grandmother who is passionate about the welfare of children, the poor, and the homeless.

By Steven J. Smith | Photo of Elton and Gordie White with their grandchildren Ansley and Aidan by Cliff Roles

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“Education is so important to me and to Elton. We are both the first in our families to have a college degree, and we both feel that education was our key. It made so many things possible.”

Growing up poor in Appalachia gave Gordie White an acute

important to me and to Elton. We are both the first in our

sense of what it means to live on the edge of poverty, and

families to have a college degree, and we both feel that

she has made it her mission to make sure that those less

education was our key. It made so many things possible.”

fortunate than herself get a fair shake at a prosperous life.

That belief led to their support of Children First, a nonprofit Gordie met Elton White, the love of her life, at Berea College

organization that serves over 600 of Sarasota County’s

in Kentucky, where they both studied business.

most vulnerable children (from birth to five years of age) and their families. Based on the Head Start program, Chil-

“It’s a small Liberal Arts college that was established as an

dren First offers full-day, year-round early education using

interracial, non-denominational school in 1855,” she said.

recognized curricula and assessment tools.

“It’s for bright, promising students who need a little help and are willing to work.”

“They don’t just babysit children,” Gordie said. “Children First trains children. They educate children and their par-

Elton went on to the University of Kentucky to finish his

ents. And education is the way out of poverty.”

studies to earn an MBA. The couple married in 1965 and moved to Dayton, Ohio where they lived for 27 years and

The Salvation Army, Resurrection House, Moffitt Cancer

had two children, David and Tricia. Gordie completed her

Center, Sarasota Memorial Hospital, All Faiths Food Bank

education at Miami of Ohio with a degree in business ed-

and the Red Cross, and the Sarasota Family YMCA are

ucation, while Elton steadily rose through the ranks with

among the other human services organizations that benefit

National Cash Register Company, eventually becoming

from the Whites’ philanthropy.

president of the firm.

“Our interests are in the welfare and benefit of children, the “Elton’s career was taking off while I taught school and

poor, and the homeless,” Gordie said. “When I was in high

we determined our children needed a parent, so I was the

school, I had a guidance counselor who urged me to go to

logical one to stay home,” she said. “His travels took him to

college. He pushed me to fill out the applications. I went, and

many countries, and our kids were raised in a culture that

the impact on my life was amazing. Education is where change

said, meet and greet people from around the world. They’re

happens. And I feel good when I help someone in need.”

all the same. People are people.”

Gordie added that philanthropy does not necessarily come The family purchased a vacation condo on Siesta Key in

from donating dollars.

1978. Gordie and Elton loved the area so much that Sarasota became their permanent home after he retired from

“Philanthropy is giving time, it’s giving effort, it’s giving love,”

NCR in 1994. Soon thereafter, Gordie began to look for a

she said. “It’s taking dinner to a sick friend. And I’ve tried to

way to give back to her new community.

set that example for my children and grandchildren, just as it was set for me. We leave an awfully big footprint on this

“I grew up very poor and I feel that doors were opened

earth, when you think in terms of the environment. I would

for me through education,” Gordie said. “Education is so

rather leave a big heart print.”

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E S TAT E P L A N N I N G

John Compton & John Lopez of Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos, P.A.

GETTING your HOUSE in ORDER

By Sue Cullen

Planning for a future in which we are no longer here has to be one of life’s most procrastination-inspiring tasks, but there are many reasons why it should not be.

In the hands of competent estate planning professionals, getting end-of-life affairs in order can not only ensure a smooth transition of assets down the road, but can also be advantageous today. Even for those who have wills, trusts and other estate planning tools in place, seemingly unending changes in the law, like the looming expiration of the estate and gift tax exemption, can require adjustments.

“We want to be able to carry out clients’ wishes,” said attorney John Lopez of Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos. “With old, or no, documents, people’s estates may not be distributed the way they want.” In Florida, that means if someone dies intestate (with no will), assets are split between a surviving spouse and children, and the law also spells out the distribution for someone with no spouse and/or children, ultimately following bloodlines to parents and siblings.

Even if state-mandated distribution is consistent with someone’s wishes, it does not take into consideration indi-

mediately rather than at the time the individual becomes incapacitated, as was the case prior to Oct. 1, Compton said.

vidual circumstances. “A person may be happy with where

“The number one consideration is that you trust the per-

it goes, but not how it goes,” said attorney John Compton,

son you give power of attorney to,” Lopez said. “If you have

also of Norton, Hammersley. The person may not consider

any qualms, don’t do it. Some keep the actual Power of

it wise for an 18-year-old to have access suddenly to a con-

Attorney document with an attorney, but that adds another

siderable sum of money or may be concerned about what

layer of complexity.” It may seem better not to have a power

happens if an heir divorces in the future. “There’s a lot we

of attorney, but that is not the case. Having these docu-

can do to address those kinds of issues,” Compton said.

ments avoids the necessity of having to have a court ap-

The first step is to determine the size of the estate based on an individual’s assets. In Florida, depending on how as-

point and oversee the actions of a guardian, which requires an annual report and court appearance.

sets are titled, estates exceeding $75,000 may need to go

Asset protection also goes hand in hand with estate

to Probate Court. While Florida has no estate tax, those with

planning in order to preserve and protect the assets

a larger net worth must pay 35 percent federal estate tax

that will eventually be passed along to heirs. This in-

on estates exceeding $5.12 million in 2012. Trusts, includ-

cludes guarding against frivolous lawsuits, for example,

ing charitable trusts, Limited Liability Companies (LLCs),

and minimizing excessive taxation. Compton says this

planned gifts, and other vehicles can reduce this liability.

involves looking at how a person’s assets are held and

Even those who will not owe estate tax may want to consider

considering transferring certain assets to trusts, LLCs or

a trust to avoid the expense and delay of Probate Court and

other legal entities. Here too, there have been changes,

to keep the details of their estates private, as all paperwork

and due to a recent court ruling, single member LLCs no

filed through the court is public record, Lopez said. Even for

longer have the asset protection they used to have. Now,

simple estates, it can take six to twelve months for settle-

it is wise to consider an LLC with a couple of members or

ment. More complex estates can take considerably longer.

creating an out-of-state LLC, he said.

Because of the uncertainty surrounding the extension of

It also is wise to have documents prepared that allow

the estate and gift tax exemption, Lopez said he has been

others to act in someone’s place if he or she becomes in-

working closely to help high net worth clients make signifi-

capacitated. While a power of attorney covers a person’s

cant transfers this year in case the amount is reduced next

financial affairs, attorneys also commonly prepare health

year. If Congress does not act, the $5.12 million maximum

care advance directives, which include living wills and ap-

amount an individual can transfer to another person will be

pointment of health care surrogates. Living wills outline the

cut to $1 million in 2013. The IRS currently allows individuals

type of treatments a person does or does not want in the

tax-free gifts of $13,000 annually to children, their spouses

event they have a terminal condition or are in a vegetative

and grandchildren. Vehicles like Grantor Retained Annuity

state. A health care surrogate is authorized to make deci-

Trusts offer options for transferring much larger sums.

sions for the person once a physician declares they are un-

Once asset distribution and estate tax issues have been

able to make such decisions for themselves.

addressed, the question of who will administer the estate

Putting all of these documents in place means people

must be determined. Options range from a friend or fam-

must share highly personal details of their lives; so finding the

ily member to an attorney or trust company. “People may

right professionals is crucial. “It’s our job to be good listeners,

want to select a family member, but this can be potentially

and it’s important for clients to feel comfortable,” Compton

dangerous if the patriarch or matriarch or both have passed

said. “Most know about attorney-client privilege and know

away,” Compton said. “There is a potential for hurt feelings

their information won’t get out of the room.” When evaluating

that go on for many years. We see a lot of siblings going

professional competency, Lopez says to look for someone

at it, and sometimes in court, which is unfortunate.” Even

who specializes in this area. See if they have had advance

in cases where assets are distributed equally and there is

training. He and Compton, for example, have completed

no disharmony among siblings, a corporate personal repre-

Masters of Law in Taxation degrees in addition to their Juris

sentative or trustee can be beneficial. Estate administration

Doctorates. Lopez also is board certified in tax law and in

can be time consuming, and the person may not have the

wills, trusts and estates law by the Florida Bar. Independent

time available to handle it. Plus, a third party fiduciary will

ratings agencies like the Martindale Hubbell Law Directory

have expertise that a family member may not, he said.

also can help identify highly qualified and ethical firms and

Prior to death, a person may need a durable power of at-

“The number one consideration is that you trust the person you give power of attorney to,” Lopez said. “If you have any qualms, don’t do it. Some keep the actual Power of Attorney document with an attorney, but that adds another layer of complexity.” It may seem better not to have a power of attorney, but that is not the case.

Having these documents avoids the necessity of having to have a court appoint and oversee the actions of a guardian, which requires an annual report and court appearance.

attorneys, making it easier to select the right professional.

torney in order to access and manage financial affairs, and as

Like other not-so-pleasant things about which we pro-

of Oct. 1, that document has undergone considerable change

crastinate, getting our affairs in order can have its own

in Florida. Because a Power of Attorney allows access to an

reward. “Many times people are very relieved when it is

individual’s finances, it is open to abuse. The new document

finally done,” Compton said. “They say it was not as hard

is far more complex, spelling out in extensive detail what the

as they thought it would be, and they are happy knowing

designated agent may handle. It also now takes effect im-

there is a plan in place.”

Connect: Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos | 1819 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941-954-4691 scenesarasota.com

May 2012

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BELINDA COFFRIN &

COFFRIN JEWELERS

A COMMUNITY GEM

By Sue Cullen. Photos by Rob Villetto.

Whether on a quest for the perfect gift or looking for that special wedding set, there is nothing like the frisson of excitement when stepping into a store and knowing that this is a place where retail dreams come true. Such a gem of a place can be found among the picturesque shops and restaurants in Sarasota’s Southside Village, where those in the know go to the family-owned

W

Coffrin Jewelers for fashion-forward, yet timeless, pieces.

ith a focus on distinctive jewelry from

jewelry is really about building memories.” That has been a winning

award-winning

formula for Coffrin Jewelers for 32 years this May, Coffrin said.

American

designers,

Coffrin Jewelers (1829 South Osprey

Pearls are definitely hot right now, particularly multiple strands,

Avenue, Sarasota – 941.366.6871) has

and one of her newer lines, Galatea, elevates pearls to new lev-

earned a reputation for chic, out-of-the-

els of artistry. Gems like amethysts are placed into Tahitian mol-

ordinary jewelry as well as for its own ar-

lusks, which create a pearl around the stone. Those pearls are

tisans who craft original designs and repair jewelry for customers.

hand-carved to expose the jewel within for a one-of-a-kind piece.

“We always have designed and made jewelry,” says Belinda Coffrin,

Barrel and round freshwater pearls are also hand-carved with sil-

who founded the company with her late husband, Terry. “We also

ver tubes inside for durability, Coffrin said. “Some people are so

go to market and buy from very talented smaller designers because

creative and come up with the neatest things,” she says. “Sara-

we want to offer people something different. We want to keep up

sota is such an artists’ community, people here really appreciate

with the trends, and we never forget that buying a great piece of

Galatea’s artistry and also the beauty of the tension settings in our

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Gelin Abaci line. They are one of the few designers who do tension settings.” With a tension setting, the stone appears to be suspended but is actually held in place by the pressure of the setting rather than with prongs, giving a fuller view of the gem.

Also on trend right now are colored stones, which Coffrin says are having quite a comeback, particularly the more unusual hues. Tourmalines, garnets and sapphires, for example, offer a rainbow of colors. “We created a purple sapphire wedding ring, which was beautiful.

Sapphires have good hardness, so they are very wearable stones,” she says. “Orange is a really hot color this year, and we have some beautiful fire opals in a ring and a pendant necklace.” Black diamonds have remained popular for several years now, and diamonds in the rough are making appearances to create some innovative new looks.

Men’s jewelry can be tricky, but Coffrin is putting some additional emphasis on finding pieces that are masculine but offer choices beyond the still-popular watches. “We’re trying to do a lot more with men’s jewelry, and have come up with a really cool option: a black diamond ring. It’s very handsome looking,” she said. “We’re also seeing a lot of new metals like titanium and stainless steel used in creative ways.” That includes Stephen Edward’s The Touch line of cable bracelets in gold, black rhodium, and stainless steel accented with diamonds.

As for the ever-popular watches, Coffrin Jewelers carries a wide selection of TechnoMarine watches for men and women. Known for bold styling, silicone bands, colorful stones and the use of diamonds on steel, the company also offers some ceramic watches, which are very fashionable

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right now. “I always like fashion, but I believe the piece also has to be something you can wear,” Coffrin says. “No one likes jewelry that has to sit in a safe. They want to be able to wear it.”

When it comes to diamonds for wedding sets and other pieces, the halo look from Christopher Designs is showing staying power with some truly stunning engagement rings. With his patented Crisscut® diamonds, his rings are truly spectacular. Coffrin Jewelers has been expanding its selection of engagement and wedding rings, including designs from Claude Thibaudeau, Jye’s International, Gelin Abaci and Valina as well as custom creations.

Coffrin will be searching for new looks and lines for the store at the industry’s premier trade show in Las Vegas next month, but says beautiful jewelry is only part of the successful approach that has kept Coffrin Jewelers in business more than three decades. “Our customers have built us; their loyalty and their children’s loyalty,” she says. “I live in the neighborhood, and I really feel a part of this community. I’m always trying to find new things and improve what I do so I can do a better job for my customers. When people come in, our main objective is to try to make them feel comfortable. Jewelry stores can be stuffy and intimidating. We want them to relax and enjoy looking around.”

Helping customers enjoy their shopping experience are Tena Docter, a graduate gemologist, and Terry Brussatti, who has been helping people find their perfect piece of jewelry for more than 30 years. Her son, Jason, has helped over the years with everything from jewelry repairs to advertising. He now takes time from his commercial fishing business for social media promotion and is building a new website for the store. Rounding out the team are the store’s appraiser Darren Blum, who has more than 20 years of experience as a GIA graduate gemologist and accredited appraiser, Brian Kelly who has been repairing and fabricating jewelry for more than 25 years, and David Desilets, a Swiss-trained watchmaker. Whitney Deem has joined the team as special events coordinator and operations manager.

Together they carry on the tradition of service established by Coffrin’s husband, Terry, a jeweler and watchmaker who supplemented the income from their first store in Coral Cove by doing repair work for other stores. They moved to their current location on Osprey Avenue in 1990. “Our business truly was built on service, and to this day our jewelers sit at the bench and do our work in-house,” she says. “That’s why we often can repair things that others may not be able to.” Coffrin also went to school and spent her time at the bench helping her husband, who passed away in 2003.

Becoming known over the years as someone who will help local charities as much as she can, Coffrin has generously donated jewelry to nearby schools for fundraising auctions. She has supported the American Cancer Society’s Cattle Baron’s Ball, the Sarasota Orchestra and the Sarasota Ballet among others. Coffrin also helps local youngsters by sponsoring a basketball team twice a year in the Sarasota Youth Basketball League. However, it is the Junior League’s many charitable efforts that have captured her time outside of the business, particularly the Sustainer Council’s Legacy Luncheon. She donated a 10-diamond necklace to commemorate the luncheon’s 10-year anniversary. This year her goal is to do a fundraiser of her own, but for now she is keeping mum about which charity will be the beneficiary because the details are still being worked out.

Having lived in Sarasota since she was a third grader has helped her forge close ties to the community, as has the fact that over the years her customers have become friends. “When someone comes in and wants to repair, or know how to take care of, grandma’s bracelet or grandpa’s ring, you get to know them and the memories those pieces carry for them,” Coffrin says. She says they truly try to live up to the store’s tagline: The Shop Worth Discovering.

“People come here and say, ‘Gee, this is different.’ We want to help them find a piece that makes them feel good when they look at it, and that they are proud to give as a gift,” she says.

“We also want to be fair so they will want to come back again and again.” scenesarasota.com

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The Issue of

Aging

BY RYAN G. VAN CLEAVE

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A

“

ging isn’t any one thing. Aging is ev-

erything,” reports Institute for the Age’s CEO Tim Dutton during his presentation “A Community that Values Its Demographics” at the 2012 Aging in America conference in Washington, DC. He’s put his finger on a growing problem that might be bigger than ObamaCare, the U.S./Mexico wall, our relations with the Middle East, and our growing national debt. Aging is one of the most important issues not only for Sarasota – one of the oldest communities in the U.S. with over 31% of our residents aged 65 or older – but for the world.

A look at the following statistics shows why this issue needs serious attention: • A quarter of the U.S. population is over 55.

• By 2050, a third of the U.S. population will be over 55; 20% will be 65+.

• People 80+ will be the fastest growing population for the next 40 years.

• The 78 million Americans over 55 are the most consistently vocal political group.

• Approximately 100,000 of the 1.2 million people in the five counties surrounding Sarasota are either directly or indirectly affected by Alzheimer’s, dementia, or cognitive disorders.

The U.S. isn’t alone in the dilemma of an aging population. Nearly 40% of the developed world will be 55+ by 2050. But getting back to the here and now – the 55+ group in the U.S. controls approximately 70% of the country’s disposable income and 75% of the financial assets. Their age cohort represents $1 trillion in spending power. The number of people over 65 in the workforce is projected to increase more than 80% in the next 10 years, and not just because of the aging of baby boomers – more older adults are choosing to keep working or return to work.

Whether the cause is increased longevity thanks to the advances in medicine or a lower scenesarasota.com

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birth rate, the result is clear: there are more older people today

aging about what could be done. With a mission that supports

than ever before. And they can’t – and shouldn’t – be ignored.

policy, research, and action, the Institute is poised to smooth

Debra Jacobs, the president and CEO of The Patterson Foun-

the coming demographic transition by connecting businesses,

dation, explains, “’Aging’ isn’t about one’s age, but rather the

government leaders, and local residents, to change the design

issues related to older adults such as healthcare, lifestyle, vol-

of goods and services, the delivery and use of public resourc-

unteering, working, learning, playing, housing, transportation

es, the characteristics of our workforce, and the very structure

– all issues that touch every person at every age, albeit differ-

of communities.

ently at every age.”

At the moment, many businesses, policymakers, and nonprofWhat’s being done about to address these various aging-re-

its are unprepared for what’s to come. More importantly, these

lated issues? Not as much as we need to, suggests the Insti-

challenges and opportunities are not limited to any one sector

tute for the Ages, a new Sarasota organization that was born

and can’t be addressed by any one entity alone. It’s unusual

as the “Aging: The Possibilities” initiative from the nonprofit

to encounter a transition of this magnitude and know it is com-

organization SCOPE. Eventually the Institute became its own

ing, and even rarer to have a transition that can be embraced

entity by filing articles of incorporation in September 2010. It

for its many economic, cultural, and community opportunities.

became such an important group that the Economic Devel-

Where better than Sarasota to meet this challenge and help

opment Corporation of Sarasota County has it as an integral

make the future a better place?

part of its strategic plan, even though the Institute is a national focus with a local focus.

The Institute isn’t alone in tackling the issues related to aging populations. The Patterson Foundation includes “Aging

Nancy K. Schlossberg, a board member for both SCOPE and

with Dignity and Independence” among its initiatives, largely

the Institute, says, “We are one of the communities – if not THE

because its namesake, Dorothy Clarke Patterson, lived with

community – in which to study older populations.” That’s why

rheumatoid arthritis and dementia but managed to stay in her

it makes sense for this organization to be based in Sarasota,

own home with both dignity and independence because of a

with a new office on Main Street in a space donated by Sara-

network of support around her. Jacobs says, “This community

sota Memorial Hospital. How does this translate into positive

views aging positively – as evidenced by over 1,000 citizens

things locally? For one thing, the Institute recently received

actively engaged in SCOPE’s various aging initiative studies

$200,000 to develop a senior registry. This registry will be an

and forums. We have an opportunity to be the architects of the

incentive for companies to come in to study aging populations

changes that result from 10,000 people a day turning 65 in our

in terms of new products. For instance, if Intel wants to see

nation. Sarasota is the epicenter for using our imagination to

how older people would react to a new device in their home

create new realities.”

that reminds them to take pills or check on their health, we’re the place to do it. This means jobs for researchers, and lo-

Ultimately, groups like the Institute for the Ages and SCOPE,

cal jobs for people to install and manage the equipment and

and initiatives like The Patterson Foundation’s “Aging with Digni-

to work with the older adults engaged in the study. Another

ty and Independence,” bring together the people and resources

outcome is that the information companies get on innova-

that can envision, plan for, and create a tomorrow that we all

tive products will help people beyond our local community.

can look forward to. Aging is the most important demographic

As Schlossberg says, “Anything that improves the lives of any

trend of our time, and Sarasota is decades ahead in figuring out

part of our population benefits us all.”

how best to prepare for it. “We are living healthier, longer lives,” Jacobs adds, “and there is a whole lot of energy and zest for

The Institute won’t look, act, or feel like other organizations.

living life to the fullest. Opportunities for change abound.”

To this end, they enlisted RTI – a world leading research institute dedicated to improving the human condition – to do a

If you want to get involved as a donor or project participant,

large-scale survey to find out how the Institute should work.

please visit www.institutefortheages.org.

Schlossberg explains: “We want to be both a think tank and a

For more information on The Patterson Foundation, please

do tank.” And that’s what’s happening, starting with a national

visit www.thepattersonfoundation.org.

conference that brought more than two dozen innovators to

To learn more about SCOPE’s community-based efforts,

Sarasota to talk with several local leaders and innovators in

please visit www.scopexcel.org.

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scene | social

RCAD’S AN EVENING AT THE AVANT-GARDE R

ingling College of Art and Design recently presented its 15th annual An Evening at the Photography by Cliff Roles

Avant-Garde student scholarship fundraiser.

This year’s theme, “Hollywood Premiere,” entertained approximately 300 attendees.

Guests walked the red carpet through a crowd of fans and “paparazzi” onto campus to enjoy live student art demonstrations, a Sarasota Red Carpet interview with Jackie Rogers and dining by Michael’s on East.

Rita & Ron Greenbaum

Jake & Angela Hartvigsen, Tami Haynes & Nor Senyah

Grace Betts & Scott Prather

Anita Meeker & Christine Lange

Larry & Patricia Thompson

Diane & Bob Roskamp

South Florida Museum Couture in the Courtyard A sold-out crowd of Manatee and Sarasota Counties’ most stylish women filled the South Florida Museum’s Spanish Plaza for the

third annual “Couture in the Courtyard” luncheon and fashion show.

Over 100 white parasols were suspended above the sea of pink tablecloths in the courtyard. Each guest received a flower charm created especially for the event, courtesy of Presenting Sponsor Hancock Bank (formerly Whitney). Sally Schule of Saks Fifth Avenue Sarasota presented the runway show of the store’s trendiest fashions, and the signature raffle featured packages that included weekend getaways, shopping sprees and designer clothes and accessories.

Jeanie Kirkpatrick, Sally Schule & Susan Wilcox scenesarasota.com

Dannie Sherrill, Jeanie Kirkpatrick, Denise Williams, Audrey Wedding, Peggy Robinson, Valerie Telfair, Susan Wilcox, Janet Walter, Debbie Gigliotti, Lester Rice & Nancy Allen

Lisa Hoban & Deborah Iaboni

Kim, Lester & Lindsay Rice May 2012

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BUILDING WEALTH FROM THE GROUND UP A recent study proved that buying a mere 10% of our food from local growers may add as much as $80 million a year to Sarasota’s economy. Local nonprofit Transition Sarasota’s goal is to help make this a reality. By Steven J. Smith Don Hall, founder and executive director of Transition Sarasota, believes the best way to improve the world is to start locally.

food. That has benefits for health, for the economy, for sustainability, and a host of other factors.”

Through educational programs, community dialogue, and in-

Another project launched by Transition Sarasota is the Eat

novative projects, Hall, 30, says Transition Sarasota’s goal is to

Local Resource Guide and Directory (www.eatlocalguide.com/

revitalize local agriculture, strengthen the local economy, reduce

Sarasota), an online index that lists local produce, wine, meat and

dependence on fossil fuels, and bring about a new vision for

fish, farm stands, farmers’ markets, grocery stores, wholesalers,

Sarasota’s future.

buying clubs, community gardens, and farm and garden suppli-

“There are probably a couple of thousand Transition groups

ers, to name a few.

around the world,” he said. “We started out here in Sarasota in

“The guide supplies around 200 businesses that are involved

2010 by doing events. We did over 80 public events the first year

in our local food system, from Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and

on energy, the economy, food. We had film screenings, speakers,

DeSoto counties,” Hall said. “They all serve local produce and have

panel discussions. Then we gradually moved into projects.”

a commitment to working with local farmers and grocers. Hope-

Transition Sarasota’s first endeavor was the Suncoast Gleaning Project, which focuses on the harvesting of surplus produce at Jessica’s Organic Farm in Sarasota.

“I think we harvested somewhere in the area of 60,000 pounds

fully our first print edition of the guide will come out this fall.”

Another part of the guide consists of a 10 percent local food shift pledge, which asks visitors to grow or buy at least 10 percent of their food locally.

of organic produce that we’ve donated to All Faiths Food Bank,

“There was a study done back in 2006 by Ken Meter of the

which they’ve distributed to their agency partners in Sarasota and

Crossroads Resource Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota that found

DeSoto counties,” Hall said. “You know, we outsource practically

if all of Sarasota County’s residents spent just 10 percent of their

every aspect of our lives, to the extent that we produce nearly

food dollars buying directly from a local farmer, it would add $80

none of our basic needs locally. What we want to do is start with

million a year to our local economy,” Hall said. “Food is a $1 billion

the most basic thing we can do, which is to grow more of our own

industry just in Sarasota County, so directing some of those food

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May 2012

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49

A SALUTE TO THOSE WHO SERVE

dollars to local farmers and growers means that they’re more likely to get spent again with somebody else locally.”

Hall said Transition Sarasota is currently supported by donations and grants, as well as funds brought in through workshops and special events. Sponsors and partners include the University of Florida, Whole Foods, Sir Speedy, Interfaith Action of Southwest Florida, and All Faiths Food Bank, among others. But additional sponsors and volunteers are always welcome and can register at the Transition Sarasota website by logging on to www.transitionsarasota.org.

“People are also welcome to come out

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Apply Now Pre-K3 through 12th grade www.saintstephens.org 941-746-2121

during the gleaning season, which runs from October until the end of May,” he said.

“We’re harvesting almost every week at Jessica’s Organic Farm at 4180 47th Street in Sarasota, and our workers go home with a bag of some of the fresh produce — lettuce, kale, collard greens, fennel, beets, cucumbers — they’ve harvested in appreciation for

A World-class Education

their time.”

Hall added that Transition Sarasota, along with its partners around the world, is a doit-yourself model of community engagement and urged interested members of the public to get more involved in its activities.

“All local initiatives are self-organized,” he said. “There’s no coordinated strategy. It’s mainly a learning network for best practices of how to do this in the community. It’s an ambitious mission. We’re not just trying to change one small thing, we’re trying to change the whole thing — to instill a vision of the future, because assumptions we’ve had about the future are not panning out.”

Hall added that due to the economic downturn, states and municipalities are encountering serious budget shortages and the cutting of social programs.

“What’s going to fill that void?” he asked.

“There is now enormous pressure on social arrangements we’ve made for basic systems like our food system, like our financial system. And we need to be proactive about how we’re going to meet those challenges.

At Transition Sarasota, we’re going to build year after year, to do just that. We’re aiming pretty high here.”

50

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TOMORROW’S MEDICAL FACILITIES TODAY ENVISION the possibilities . . .

SARASOTA MEMORIAL

HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION

INCORPORATED 1976

941.917.1286 | SMHF.ORG PATIENT CARE | RESEARCH | EDUCATION | TECHNOLOGY | FACILITIES

Grand Cypress Golf Resort � Academy State of the Art at its Finest

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Since opening in 1986, the Grand Cypress Golf Resort in Orlando has epitomized for golfers the best in quality, competition, skill and consistency in course design and management. Golf enthusiasts have access to a World class Top 25 teaching academy, 45 holes of championship golf, and spacious overnight accommodations.

Upon passing through the private guard gates and tree lined boulevard on your way to the stately clubhouse, you immediately realize you are entering someplace very special for golf.

Off to the right across the East course fairway is the 26 acre Academy of Golf with state of the art technology and club fitting expertise to fine tune your game. Here, Fred Griffin and his team of PGA certified instructors observe and hone your swing skills to improve your game. They are very good at it having been rated one of the “Top 25 schools in America” for the past 12 years.

To your left, you eye Tee Box #1 of the South course, the starting point for what is considered the most challenging nine holes here. In all, there are forty-five holes of championship golf personally designed by Jack Nicklaus; signature golf designs that stimulate both mind and body for golfers on a continuing quest for accuracy and skill.

The North and South Nines feature sharply ledged fairways, tall shaggy mounds of grass, and plateau greens nestled above water and sand. Their demanding, target-style design features two double greens, which connect the eighth holes (each a par 3) and the two closing holes (each a par 4). scenesarasota.com

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Recent renovations allowed Nicklaus to alter several holes for increased length and shot value without sacrificing the integrity of his original layout. On the more generous East Nine, reduced bunkering leads to a greater allowance for run-up shots. The par 3 fifth hole is an island green that has garnered favorable comparison to the renowned seventeenth at TPC Sawgrass.

Several of these twenty-seven holes have elegant mounding covered with long grass and wildflowers, reminiscent of the glens of Scotland. That theme is carried to its apex on the player friendly New Course, Jack Nicklaus’ eighteen-hole tip of the hat to the Old Course at St. Andrews. It features double greens, stone bridges and walls, burns, and pot bunkers as deep as twelve feet.

These replica eighteen holes garner such great respect from tour pros that it’s used to prepare for the British Open.

Grand Cypress has hosted several recent LPGA Tour events, the World Cup of Golf, and Shark Shootout Skills Challenge designed to showcase the resorts’ well-rounded golf appeal. But if you’re not quite at the level of the Masters yet, don’t fret. The Grand Cypress Academy of Golf offers a comprehensive learning experience for players at all levels of the game.

Grand Cypress Academy of Golf Noted as one of 25 top Golf School in America by GOLF Magazine, the Grand Cypress Golf Academy has an exceptional quality of tenured teaching staff. Fred Griffin, the Director of the Golf Academy, has been recognized by GOLF Magazine, Golf Digest, and the PGA of America’s North Florida Section as one of the top instructors in America for over 2 decades. He is the current coach of several members of both the PGA and LPGA Tours and has led the Academy since its inception in 1986.

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Programs include elite player instruction, junior programs, a women’s school, and several shorter schools offering specific game development and summer programs. One-on-one lessons provide the opportunity to mix and match to your tastes for the optimal training mix. Opt for one hour golf lessons, a two day lesson package, or even eighteen holes of direct playing instruction. Thorough instruction encompasses putting, pitching, pitch and run, bunker, and on-course instruction, as well as Swing Model® swing analysis sessions with customized recommendations. TaylorMade Performance Lab on-site is one of only six in the United States.

Luxury Accommodations Some say the Villas of Grand Cypress reminds them of their home club. The ground floor elevations of the Mediterranean styled residences of the Club Suites and Villas provide guests with vacation comforts more like home. Multi-bedroom villas feature full-service kitchens , dining and living rooms overlooking large outside patios set on fairways and water features. Club suites have separate living rooms and wet bars and ground level patios. All rooms feature twice daily housekeeping visits and state of the art technologies to make you stay feel special.

An Array of Activities When entering the Grand Cypress Resort, prepare to be transported to a world separate from the hustle and bustle of the tourist community nearby. This Orlando oasis encompasses 1,500 acres of exquisite foliage, ranging from manicured hedges to the stunning palms and tropical flowers for which Florida is famous. Resort amenities for couples and families alike reinforce the feeling of luxury and choice, offering everything from in-room spa services, two high quality restaurants, a 12 court tennis facility, two free form pools, kayaks, lake fishing, jogging trails, and more. It’s a fantastic setting in which to play – and when it is time to venture out, the world’s most famous attractions are just minutes away!

Grand Cypress Summer Offers * Academy Two-Day Summer Schools – includes 2 rounds of golf, accommodations, personalized instruction. Book and attend in May to receive best value! * Book any golf school June through September for a 20% discount! * Stay & Play Package – include spacious accommodations, daily full American breakfast, and unlimited play on all courses, cart fees with GPS, range balls, and complimentary club / shoe rental.

Academy schools from $1100 per room, double occupancy.

Golf package priced from $129 per person weekdays and $189 weekends. Not applicable to groups of 10 rooms or more.

Visit www.grandcypress.com/scene or call (407) 239-4700 for details & specials. scenesarasota.com

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Scenes from an Interview:

Dick Vitale

by Gus Mollasis

You’ve heard the catch phrases and you certainly know the voice that echoes from the man they call Dickie V. And while that’s “Awesome Baby,” that’s not all there is to this man. Certainly you can feel every bit of passion that Dick Vitale puts into every word he utters, whether speaking into a microphone about basketball or the things in life that matter to him most. The man is enthusiasm personified. But what you might not know about this recent inductee into the Basketball Hall of Fame is that basketball is not his whole life, it’s just the tool that helped Dickie V make a huge difference in this world.

He’s had a life filled with enough fame, riches and memories to fill up the Dick Vitale Court at Calihan Hall at the University of Detroit, recently named in his honor with a tribute that brought Vitale to tears.

Tears, laughter, and the ability to think, is how his good friend Jimmy Valvano defined what made up a good day. Dick Vitale adheres to his old friend’s philosophy.

Even now in his early seventies, you can still see the fire burning in this New Jersey kid who used to teach grade school kids to dream big. Like a basketball, his life has come full circle. He now helps inspire legions of adults to fight for his bigger dream – helping to find a cure for cancer. Through his fundraising efforts in the name of the Jimmy V Foundation, this former champion state high school basketball coach has helped raise millions of dollars to fight a foe that seems unbeatable. But fear not, Dickie V is ready for a fight during which he rarely takes a time out. He believes that it is merely a matter of time before we can celebrate a victory over this dreaded killer. The thought brings a satisfied and teary-eyed smile to his face, and somewhere in the wind you can hear the faint echo of his pal Jimmy V saying softly, “Don’t Give up...Don’t ever give up®.” No need to worry Jimmy, Dickie V will never give up the fight. I had the privilege of observing the gentle nature of this larger than life legend, what makes him tick and what touches his giving heart, and took a look at some of the scenes from an interview of his life.

Describe your childhood and what the greatest thing that your

that as a crutch or an excuse for being successful in life. You can

parents taught you about living a good life.

do anything that anyone else does.” Those words really motivat-

My childhood was epitomized by my parents who were uneducated

ed me. I have my Master’s Degree but I learned more at my din-

but had a doctorate in love. My dad pressed coats and through my

ner table than any class I ever took. My dad would come home

mom and dad I learned about love, family and respecting people.

from the sweat factory and put the money on the table and say

They never went to high school but they had within them every ele-

Mea, here is some money for insurance and food and we always

ment that makes a great American. They had pride and a great

had that little extra for Friday night pizza at Barcelona’s. Look-

work ethic and they knew how to do things the right way. My mom

ing back, I remember telling my daughters that we didn’t have

would say, “Richie (she never called me Dick) never ever believe in

money, pizzazz and a lot of the things we have today, but we had

can’t. Don’t let can’t be part of your life.” When I was growing up,

so much love and we lived like millionaires.

I wanted to be a coach. I had people telling me you can’t do this, you’re not a great player. Be realistic. When I got rejection letters

What did these professions mean to you in life?

from colleges where I wanted to coach, my mom would say, “You

Coaching: Coaching to me is the ultimate high, especially when

are going to make it someday. You have something special within

you have a game plan and you see that game plan executed to

you and that is your spirit for life which will help you get to the top.”

perfection. To see those players take what you put in front of

My parents were my heroes and my role models. So I thought long

them in preparation and turn it into a masterpiece – it doesn’t

and hard over decisions that I would make because I never want-

get any better than that.

ed to disappoint them and break their hearts. Life is simple. Make

Broadcasting: It’s an incredible feeling to know that at the time

good decisions and good things happen. Make bad decisions and

you’re calling that game, to those kids playing it is the most im-

bad things happen.

portant game in the world. So I always try to treat the game with enthusiasm and energy.

When you were a child, you lost an eye in a tragic accident. How did this impact your attitude in life?

I hardly remember it. But I do remember my mom saying, “Don’t use scenesarasota.com

Is there a quote or mantra that you live by?

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sire to excel. You don’t get to the top of the mountain by just dream-

believed in and should have been doing. Still I was stunned. I’m not

ing. It’s nice to dream. But it’s the work ethic and pride that makes

ashamed to say that I cried. I thought it was the end of the world.

you get to that mountain top and that level of success. I also like

I’m calling people who I thought were my friends and I’m not getting

Edison’s quote, “Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.”

any calls back. My wife said, “You think all those people are your friends, they’re acquaintances. You’re going to find out you only

A winner is someone who......

have a small group of people that you can call true friends.” That is

can look in the mirror at the end of the day and say in pursuit of my

when I learned the true definition of a friend. There is nothing like

goal and dreams I gave my best.

family and friends when you feel it’s the end of the world. And I did.

I was so bad during that time, sitting home feeling sorry for myself,

A loser is someone who.....

violating everything that I believed in about pride and passion. My

makes excuses and alibis and blames everyone else for their losses

wife said, “You’re not the first one and you’re not the last one to be

and failures.

fired.” And then the phone rang. On the other end of the phone a man named Scottie Connal said, “You don’t know me but I have

It seems you’ve always been an underdog of sorts and relate to

just been named head of a new network called ESPN. I heard you

their plight. How has that impacted the way you and legions of

speak to your team when you played Michigan in the Sweet 16. I

others fight to find a cure for cancer?

was the producer. John Wooden and Curt Gowdy called the game.

I’m obsessed with it now. Every dollar I make from merchandise

I wrote your name down and Coach Wooden and Curt Gowdy told

that I sell at the Broken Egg Restaurant goes toward my goal of

me they thought you would be pretty decent for TV. Well, I’m calling

raising $1 million a year for cancer research for my late buddy

you today because I heard you were let go by the Pistons. I want

Jimmy Valvano. When he was struck down with this disease, he

you to do our very first game, DePaul vs. Wisconsin.”

was on top of the world. He just won a NCAA basketball cham-

I said no. I didn’t know anything about TV. I wanted to get back into

pionship. He was a young man of 47 years when he died from

coaching and college. I had a lucky break in that ten days later, he

bone cancer. It was brutal watching the pain he went through. His

called me back and said, “Do the game.” My wife told me to stop

dream at the end of his life was to find a cure, and from that time I

watching General Hospital with Luke and Laura, that’s how bad it

vowed I would do anything I could to help make his dream a real-

got, and do the game. So I did the game. And it was a shot in the

ity. With the help of Jimmy’s family, his wife Pamela, his brother

arm. It was like I was in heaven. I was back with the players and

Nick, men like John Saunders at ESPN, Coach K and others, we

coaches. I remember Scott sat down with me at the end of my first

have all worked religiously. I think Jimmy would be proud to know

year and I was starting to send out resumes for coaching jobs. He

that we raised over $115 million for research to help others. To me

said, “Listen to me, listen to me, stay with this, you have something

there is no greater satisfaction in life. When they put me in that box

we can’t teach. You connect. Whether they agree or disagree with

and it’s all over, I want them to say, you know what, forget about

you, you hit a nerve with people when you say something. They

being an announcer. He affected people’s lives generation after

go to the water fountain the next day and say, “Did you hear what

generation by the millions he raised for cancer. That would be a

Vitale said?” I didn’t know what he meant until 1983 when I went

satisfying end. That’s my goal. At our 7th Dickie V Gala on May

to my first Final Four and I walked into the gym and the fans were

18th, I want to announce that we have a check for $1 million that

shouting, “Dickie V....can I get a picture?” And I was besieged with

we will give to various children’s hospitals to be used for research.

requests for autographs. I was so lucky that I listened to Scott. I

No child should be in a hospital having chemo. When you see all

truly believe that had I gone back into coaching, I would have been

these kids suffering from cancer, brain tumors, leukemia, and you

dead by age 50.

see the parents at their bedside hoping and praying for a miracle, that’s a tough time. Those kids and their family’s lives are affected and we must fight and fight to save them.

What is your secret to a good marriage?

Every marriage has its ups and downs. All my coaching buddies, Bobby Knight, all of them say that she deserves sainthood to live

Define what makes a great friend.

58

with me for 41 years. And she does. Lorraine is a guiding light and

Someone who is absolutely at your side and with you through good

provides a great balance. She is the opposite of me when it comes

and bad times. I learned a little bit about that when I was fired by

to the public eye. She is in the background and I am in the spotlight.

the Pistons. My career was on an incredible high. I had been on this

She did a phenomenal job raising my daughters. I am just so lucky

journey of following my dreams, from a sixth grade teacher in 1970

and glad that my girls took after her both intellectually and physically

who taught high school basketball, to 1971 where I became an as-

and not after me. People that don’t know me think that basketball

sistant at Rutgers, to 1973 as head coach at the University of Detroit.

is my life 24/7. Trust me, there is much more to my life. My number

In 1975, I became the youngest athletic director and head coach in

one priority in my life is my family. My wife is with me at all my events.

America at the University of Detroit. In 1978 the Pistons offered me

When my kids were at Notre Dame, I vowed that I would speak to

the job to coach in the NBA. I was teaching sixth grade in 1970 and

them every day, to encourage them, to help through good times

by 1978 I’d risen on an arch that landed me the head coaching job

and bad times, because life has good and bad times. And to get

for the Detroit Pistons. I was only in my thirties. After just a handful

through them you have to battle. Life is not all smooth. I’ve had my

of games, I was fired. November 8, 1979. I remember it to this day.

bumps and bruises, like anybody, but I’ve always tried to look at life

I deserved to be fired because I wasn’t doing the mental things I

like a glass that’s half full.

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Where does your energy to constantly go, go, go come from?

talk about the game we were working on. So we’re sitting there

I’m 72 and sometimes I act about 27. As long as I have the energy

watching something on Sinatra and Jimmy’s in his shorts and all of

and enthusiasm, every day of my life I will wake up with a goal of

a sudden out of the blue, he jumps up out of the bed, starts crying

trying to raise more money for cancer research.

and punching the walls. I grabbed him. He yelled, “Take your worst pain like a toothache and run it through your body.” He starts run-

How did you find your way to Sarasota?

ning around taking all these pain pills. “That’s how I feel every day.”

We came down to Florida to get away from the snow and cold but

He fought the pain so hard and he thought he would beat this. He

it was really because of tennis and the Bollettieri Academy we dis-

didn’t want to take the morphine drip because he knew that would

covered in Bradenton. My two daughters went there and because

mean it was over. When I introduced him at the ESPY Awards, we

of that great place they got scholarships to Notre Dame. There they

had to carry him on stage. I stood next to him on stage as he gave

met two great guys and got married and have given us five beautiful

that courageous and memorable speech. I was electrified.

grandchildren.

If Jimmy V could attend your event in Sarasota, what do you think You have left many marks in this life, one being that the Univer-

and hope that he would say?

sity of Detroit recently named their gymnasium after you. Do you

Jimmy would dance with joy to see all his friends come out free of

hold a special place in your heart for those days of miracles at the

charge and donate their time, names and services to the event.

University of Detroit?

They all come because they know it was Jimmy’s dream.

I cried like a baby when they gave me that honor. What hit me was, there would be no Dickie V, no career, no ESPN for me if it wasn’t for

Are you a religious man?

this school that took a chance on an unknown thirty-something from

I don’t like to preach to people what I do, but I will tell you this. I have

the east, and gave him his first chance to live his dream.

not missed Mass in twenty years. Even at the Final Four, people were blown away that I could get a Mass in because I vowed to

For many, you will be remembered for your work regarding the

do it. Somehow someway I will get to church. My mother went to

V Foundation. Is your work there what you are most proud of in

church every day and even after she suffered a stroke, she would

your life?

drag herself to Mass. My mom and dad lived a life the way you are

Absolutely. To bring a smile to a child’s face is gratifying. We have

supposed to live it.

many parents who have lost their children and we have $500,000 that we put into research in their children’s names. We tell them

Your friend Jimmy V defined a full day as one where you laugh,

we can’t bring their children back but we can make sure that your

think and cry. Describe in your best play by play your perfect day?

child is helping other kids. To see the look on their faces...just

My perfect day is to wake up with all kinds of energy and enthusiasm

yesterday I spoke with a dad whose child has come down with

for the day, have a list of what I want to achieve, and at the end of the

cancer and you hear the pain in his voice – it tears your insides.

day look in the mirror and think man, this has been perfect. Everything

Hardly a day goes by where I don’t have someone asking me to

I planned became a reality. My opening comments at the May 18th

make a call of encouragement. One time, I was rushing around the

Gala event will be this: Jimmy V said every day we should be moved

country during basketball season and I was asked to call this guy

to thoughts, moved to humor and moved to tears. I will guarantee you

and talk with the family and their little girl Lucy who had cancer. I

tonight that you will laugh, you will think and you will cry.

procrastinated. I hate that word. It was the night before Thanksgiving, I was driving and it hit me that I had not called. I headed

After all the games have been played, all the money has been

into my office and made the call. “Mr. Webber this is Dickie Vitale

raised, how do you want to be remembered?

and I’m calling about Lucy. I just want to tell you that my heart and

A guy that was filled with passion and pride and loved people.

prayers are with you and keep trying to convince Lucy to keep fighting.” I could hear silence on the other end of the phone. And

How do you want people to remember your friend Jimmy V?

then he said, “Thank you so much, but tonight I’m going to funeral

I want Jimmy’s legacy not to be cutting the nets down, but instead

service for my little girl.” I was stunned. I started to cry. “Mr. Web-

someone who set a game plan to battle cancer and has helped so

ber, I don’t know what to say, but I will promise you this. We will

many by the millions of dollars raised in his name to fight this disease.

not forget your little girl.”We had the Webbers come to the event that year and in the name of their little girl Lucy, $500,000 was

Are we going to beat this thing?

donated to fight cancer. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house. And

Probably not in my lifetime. There are 12 million cancer survivors

this year they are coming back to the event.

today. People have to realize that one of every two males will get cancer and one out of every three females will get cancer. We have

What memory still burns in your heart even now of your dear

to beat this disease. Today, because of the research, cancer survi-

friend Jimmy V?

vors are able to go on with their lives and that is a positive. One day

I was working with Jimmy at ESPN when he was diagnosed with

to see that headline, not that someone won a basketball champi-

cancer and he was still working right to the end. We were at the

onship, but to see that a cure for cancer has been found, will be a

hotel across from ESPN. He asked me to come up to his room to

great day for mankind.

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SFF:

CONVERSATIONS WITH FILMMAKERS

by Gus Mollasis

During the Sarasota Film Festival (SFF), the best of independent filmmakers came to our great city for ten days of parties, events, talks, seminars, and of course, to showcase their films. While it’s easy to think of SFF for its fun parties and nightlife glamour, it is above all about the films and the filmmakers. I love to lose myself in a dark theater, catch a film and discover something new about the world and myself that I didn’t know before. Over my 11 years of covering SFF for my TV show, At the Movies, I would usually see about 50 films per year. I really love the shorts and the documentaries, and of course I love meeting talented new filmmakers. At the 14th Annual Sarasota Film Festival held in mid-April, I posed three questions to filmmakers about their passion for filmmaking and why SFF and similar festivals are so important to them.

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Big Boys Gone Bananas Director Frederik Gertten

BIG BOYS GONE BANANAS! is the story of the filmmakers’ battle to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds in order to continue making films and set a precedent for free expression. A startling tale of David vs. Goliath, the film is relentless in its pursuit of justice.

Why do you make films?

Film is a great way of telling a story. If you are dealing with reality as we documentary filmmakers do, we transmit facts in an emotional way. I think those facts stick better. Filmmaking is my profession.

What is most important is to tell a good story. When I do that it’s important to be loyal to my ethical standards. It’s all about the relationship to my audience. That is so important.

What do you hope someone takes away from your film?

I want them to take away a good story and hopefully some moments that stay with them. Sometimes people come up to me and tell me that my film made them act in a different way. Films can change the world by inspiring people to work for change.

Why are Film Festivals like SFF important to filmmakers?

A film festival like SFF is a part of a global resistance moment. We are many that are not afraid of being serious in between having a good time with friends. The combination of great people and great films is mind-blowing. The festival world is growing, what we create together is in demand. And that’s a good thing.

The Show Must Go On Director Paula M. Froehle

This film explores the unique familial bond that exists within the high flying Wallenda clan who, despite the true risks of their dangerous high wire act and the economic reality that threatens their livelihood, have performed aerial acts for generations as The Flying Wallendas. As they continue to hone their skills and develop their artistry, the film explores their rich legacy by sharing some of their most death defying feats. One of the most famous circus families in the world, the Wallendas call Sarasota home, performing and training here with the same apparatus and on the same rigs as Karl Wallenda developed over 80 years ago.

Why do you make films?

From the time I was young, I’d been captivated by film’s ability to move you - to get inside you and change the way you feel, change the way you think about and experience the world. One of my earliest memories is of the drive-in and being squashed between my eight siblings on the tailgate of a ‘64 station wagon, listening to the audio crackle from a metal speaker hung on the door, sleepily watching Old Yeller on the huge screen. The endless blanket of stars above, the cool summer air, the heartbreaking ending – at nine years old, I was hooked. It took me weeks to recover from that ending but when I did, I knew I had to make movies. I knew I had to attempt that kind of connection with others. I wanted to feel that power again and to harness it to tell the stories that moved me, made me reconsider my scenesarasota.com

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experience in the world. Karl Wallenda’s signature phrase was “Being

without the support of the ones they love.

on the wire is living – everything else is just waiting,” and it resonates I think with every one of us. We all have that “wire” – that thing we

Why do you make films?

would do, regardless of money, regardless of logic, because it “speaks”

I ask myself that every day. Making films does not pay my bills. Mak-

to us on an internal level – it is at the core of who we are. For me, being

ing films is stressful beyond belief. And yet, it’s kind of like asking me

a filmmaker is living. Everything else is just waiting.

why I breathe.

What do you hope someone takes away from your film?

What do you hope someone takes away from your film?

I hope my film compels people to go back to see traditional circus,

I hope they take away the experience of walking around in someone

to make the effort next time it comes to town. I hope that they feel

else’s shoes for 85 to 90 minutes.

the same sadness I feel at the thought of losing this incredible piece of our cultural heritage, and the impact it would have on families like

Why are film festivals like SFF important to filmmakers?

the Flying Wallendas. I also hope people take away from this film the

Films only come alive with an audience, and festivals like SFF are im-

very things that compelled me to follow them for the past seven years.

portant because they allow filmmakers to meet the audience face to

When I met the Wallendas, I was immediately drawn to their close-

face and to engage and exchange ideas, thoughts, impressions, which

knit family unit, their sense of respect for their heritage, their desire to

for me is one of the main reasons to make a film in the first place.

carry on tradition through eight generations. I was struck by the fact that they rely on each other, literally for their lives. In the intimacy of

Think of Me

the trailer, in the flurry of the backstage, in the intensity of the per-

Director Brian Wizemann

formances, I witnessed the tightness of the community, and the true

THINK OF ME is the story of a single mother struggling to make ends

bond of the family as they struggled with all the same issues any family

meet for her daughter on the fringes of Las Vegas. As her fragile eco-

struggles with – making ends meet, attempting to raise strong, healthy

nomic situation grows more and more dire, Angela works hard to play by

children who understand (and embrace) the family business; conflict,

the rules and provide a decent life for her family. But when a co-worker

illness, birth, and death – and figuring out how to stay together: how to

makes an unexpected proposition that could change Angela’s fortunes,

thrive. And how to put some of it aside each time they climb the tower

it forces her to consider the unthinkable in order to give her daughter a

and rely on each other for their lives. Their family is a metaphor for all

better life. THINK OF ME is a provocative look at the reality of a life on

families, and in that way they are just like each of us.

the margins.

Why are Film Festivals like SFF important to filmmakers?

Why do you make films?

SFF is vital to filmmakers because it brings the best of independent

I think ultimately film has more reach than other art forms and though

voices to audiences that wouldn’t have the means to see or hear them

I used to think less of it given how commercialized it is, I’ve come to

otherwise. It clusters together film lovers and filmmakers and con-

believe it’s our richest art form. After working in a few mediums, I

centrates attention on stories and experiences that are important,

discovered that film suits my strengths, at least whatever’s wrong with

and sometimes not easily heard amidst the noise and distraction of

my brain allows me to write dialogue well, and I’m often oversensitive

technology and the time in which we live. By presenting independent

visually, which helps in other aspects of film. I know for me, given art,

films in large-scale theatres, in front of big audiences, the festival el-

dance, music and the like, my most immersive and emotional experi-

evates the screening experience and enables the filmmaker to speak to

ences have come from film.

a broader group and to reach their target audiences. Festivals like SFF enable filmmakers to have intimate discussions with the audience af-

What do you hope someone takes away from your film?

terward, which makes sharing my film a much more personal and in-

Our film is dark, challenging, and ultimately redemptive. I guess you

vigorating experience for me as a filmmaker. I deeply appreciate their

hope to give people pause, to somehow reflect on the human condition

support. Film festivals like SFF provide independent filmmakers the

even in the face of real hardship.

opportunity to reach audiences beyond the megaplex.

I am a Good Person/I am a Bad Person Director Ingrid Veninger

Why are Film Festivals like SFF important to filmmakers?

Festivals like SFF are important to independent filmmakers because they are our first theatrical exposure. Festivals with great reputations

Ruby White is a well-intentioned but misguided filmmaker, who doesn’t

and strong programming sensibilities like Sarasota help attract au-

take advice and is full of insecurities. She leaves her husband and son in

diences as well as critics, and being selected serves as a stamp of ap-

Toronto to hit the European film festival circuit, bringing her eighteen

proval amidst a sea of other work. Festival audiences also help create

year-old daughter, Sara, as her assistant. When she receives criticism at

additional interest when they champion smaller films through word

a screening in the UK, she begins to question herself. With their rela-

of mouth, helping them to get out into the world and find their audi-

tionship slowly slipping apart, Sara suggests they go their separate ways.

ence. Without festivals, our already difficult job would no doubt be

Without each other’s support, they realize how lonely the world can be

impossible.

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scene | social

ODA’S 2012 BANYAN BALL

T

racee Bomberger and Michelle Lea transformed

Photos by Keith A. Millard Photography

Thunder Stadium at the Uihlein Campus into the rolling

countryside of Ireland for The Out-of-Door Academy’s annual event fundraiser, Banyan Ball 2012. This year, the theme was The Emerald Isle: A Claddagh Affair of Friendship, Love, and Loyalty. Over $350,000 was raised for the school by Outof-Door parents, supporters, and faculty, who gathered in support of the academy’s mission of academics, the arts, and athletics. Be sure to save the date for next year’s event, which will be held on March 9, 2013.

Paul & Beth Svilokos

Joe & Daria Spina

Noel & Alyssa Beauliea

Jayne Owen, Shannon Drosky & Brooke Chapman

Elizabeth Mahler, Michelle Lea, Tracee Bomberger & David Mahler

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scene | social

WOMAN’S EXCHANGE VOLUNTEER LUNCHEON

T

he annual Woman’s Exchange Volunteer Luncheon was held this year at Michael’s on East. The annual event Photography by Cliff Roles

celebrated the Woman’s Exchange’s 50th year anniversary and the efforts of nearly 200 volunteers. The Woman’s Exchange surpassed its initial giving goal of $250,000 and will instead be awarding $325,000 this fiscal year to local arts and cultural organizations, as well as students pursuing a higher education in the arts. The funds represent $125,000 more than awarded last year and $175,000 more than the previous year.

Laurel Roberts & Maureen Williams Linda Ploger, Barbara Van Eycken & Dan Ploger

Pat Armstrong & Alan Clark

Ann Johnson & Karen Koblenz

Barb Maclean, Doreen Rouse & Helen McMurray Susan von Gries & Sue Raymond

SENIOR FRIENDSHIP CENTERS “YOU BET YOUR LIFE” S enior Friendship Centers held its annual fundraiser at the

Sarasota Center, attracting 200 guests and raising a record

Photography by Peter Acker

amount for the third consecutive year. The entertainment was a recreation of the eponymous Groucho Marx TV show from

the 50s, featuring Chuck Sidlow as Groucho and two pairs of contestants: event chairman Harold Ronson with violinist Margo Zarycka, and Jackie LeClaire with Becky Taylor. The promised “ducky evening” took the form of origami, henna tattoos, room décor and party favors – plus duck à l’Orange and duck sugar cookies on the 1950s menu.

Rabbi Jonathan & Marty Katz

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Mike & Jewel Ash

Michael Klauber & Margo Zarzycka

Victoria & Harry Leopold

Annette & Marvin Black with Gerri Aaron

Bruce & India Lesser scenesarasota.com

MK Designs & The Golden Image A Boutique Jewelry Store Clockwise: A sampling of MKD creations.

Iolite and Diamond Ring.

Marian, Connie & Pauline.

With a passion for the unique, a f lair

amazingly attractive prices.

for design, and a love for fine jewelry,

Along with this incredible array of

MK Designs and The Golden Image

beautiful jewelry, The Golden Image

have created a refreshing boutique con-

and MK Designs provide a wealth of

cept for their business. Two sisters and

other services, including repair, custom

a husband and wife team work together

design, and appraisals. They also pro-

in a whirlwind of creativity.

duce educational seminars geared to-

Catering to all aspects of the jewelry business, this entrepreneurial team

ward conventions, professional groups, and social clubs.

conveys a friendly neighborhood style

Community involvement is an impor-

while maintaining high standards for

tant aspect for these business owners.

their products and services.

They participate in and support many

Innovative handmade designs in 14k

local charity events. This team is also

or 18k gold featuring an exotic array of

committed to ethical practices within

colored gemstones, diamonds and pearls

their industry and are members of the

are the trademark of MK Designs. The

American Gem Trade Association, the

team loves to share the history, lore and

Jeweler’s Ethics Society, The Interna-

vital statistics of their rare, often one of

tional School of Gemology and the

a kind gems.

World Gem Society.

The extensive estate selection at The

They invite you to indulge yourself.

Golden Image Jewelry Store is excep-

Drop in and browse, or stay home and

tional. A wide assortment of pieces

visit online. Either way, you are in for

brimming with history is offered at

a treat!

Connect: The Golden Image Jewelry Store and MK Designs | 30 South Palm Avenue, Sarasota | 941-364-8439 | www.mymkdesigns.com scenesarasota.com

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scene | profiles

The Visual Arts...

John & Suzie Seerey-Lester Husband and wife duo John and Suzie Seerey-Lester are both distinguished wildlife and landscape artists whose works depict large mammals, birds of prey, magnificent underwater creatures and environmentally sensitive tableaus. Married in 2000, they have expanded their work to incorporate teaching MasterClasses in the Plein Air technique. Both separately and as a team, their love of nature and passion for conservation and protection continually informs their work and lives.

Born and raised in England, it was a visit to East Africa over thirty years ago that first sparked John Seerey-Lester’s interest in wildlife (paintings featured left).

Since then, he has traveled to – and painted in – China, India, Antarctica, the Arctic, and various countries in Central and South America. He has displayed in the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, the Gilcrease Museum, and National Museum of Wildlife Art, and in many other permanent collections such as Bennington Center for the Arts, Nature in Art Museum, and even the White House.

The author of several books and recipient of copious awards (including Artist of the Year at Southeastern Wildlife Expo, Pac Rim Wildlife Art Show and Florida Wildlife Expo, and the Award of Excellence from the Society of Animal Artists), Seerey-Lester is a member of The Society of Animal Artists, Artists for Con-

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...so rich in inspiration, ambition and sheer beauty. SCENE proudly recognizes the passion and talents of local visual artists in this new monthly feature. Artists are selected by an independent panel organized by the Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County. servation, Oil Painters of America, and a founding member of Southern Plein Air Artists and The PhArtists (a band of merry photographers and artists).

Suzie Seerey-Lester, (paintings featured right) was a professional diver for over 30 years. As a Diving Instructor Trainer, Suzie traveled around the world, as the first woman to teach diving and license instructors. Working for the CIA and the Secret Service, she taught law enforcement personnel how to dive, perform search and recovery as well as other specialized skills. Traveling gave Suzie the opportunity to see extraordinary underwater creatures up close (and some scary stories), which she captured in her earlier paintings.

She has won several distinguished awards for her art, including: Top 100 and Juror’s Award in Paint America, Judges Award from LSU School of Veterinary Medicine, and Artist of the Year from The Ocean Foundation, Birds in Art at the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, The Bennington Art Museum, Animals In Arts Tour, Grant’s Pass Museum, Florida Museum for Women Artists, and the Society of Animal Artist’s show. Seerey-Lester is a member of the Society of Animal Artists, Artists for Conservation, Oil Painters of America, American Society of Marine Artists, The Wildlife Artists Association, a founding member of Southern Plein Air Artists, and The PhArtists. More about the artists can be found on their website www.seerey-lester.com. scenesarasota.com

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scene | social

GIRLS INC. OF SARASOTA CELEBRATION LUNCHEON

9

00 dedicated supporters of Girls Incorporated of Sarasota County attended the 24th Annual Celebration Luncheon at

the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota. The focus this year was on the Girls Inc. media literacy program. Guests were treated to an edible iPhone dessert with Girls Inc. apps. Flori Roberts and Pamela Truitt were honored with the annual She Knows Where She’s Going Award, and Susan Jones received the Donna Brace Ogilvie Board of

Photography by Cliff Roles

Trustees Visionary Award.

Jennifer Horiuchi & Lisa Wells Pam Truitt, Flori Roberts & Susan Jones

Jennifer Dawes, Colleen Buckmeier, Justine Amdur & Carol McCluskey

Nikki Nilon, Joe Barbetta & Stephania Feltz

Don’t Struggle With Hearing Loss Sharon and Doug of Gibson’s Hearing Technologies know from first-hand experience that the art of any good relationship is the art of good communication.

“Not being able to hear clearly was frustrating to say the least,” says Doug Gibson.

“Hearing loss can cause social isolation because the sufferer may find it easier to withdraw from group activities than to participate in them, “ notes Doug. “Such behavior might in turn cause people to think of him or her as timid or disconnected and give up trying to communicate.”

“Sometimes I felt he did not care enough to listen, “ said Sharon.

At least ten percent of Americans have some degree of hearing loss, ranging from mild to profound. Older adults are affected most, as hearing loss tends to accelerate with age. An estimated thirty percent of Americans aged 65 and older, and approximately fifty percent of those over age 75 have a hearing impairment. Hearing loss can occur at any age, however, due to factors such as noise exposure, trauma, genetics and illness. Worldwide, the number of people with hearing loss is estimated at 500 million.

“Fortunately, significant improvements in hearing technology have been made in the last few decades,” reports Doug. “More options for treating hearing loss are available, and some of these options are not even noticeable to others. They key is for the patient to find a treatment for their needs and lifestyle.”

“My name is Doug Gibson, of Gibson’s Hearings Technologies. I am a Board Certified Hearing Aid Specialist and a fellow hearing aid user for over fifteen years. I’ve tried over forty-five different aids and I currently wear an aid — without anyone noticing! I invite you to come in for a free hearing test and evaluation to find out what your options are for different styles, circuits and manufacturers. We will answer all your questions and found out how we can change your life.”

941.927.2424

Max Hannum with Katie, Jeffrey & Jeff Jones

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2344 Bee Ridge Rd. #101 Sarasota, FL 34239 www.gibsonshearing.com scenesarasota.com

scene | education

EDUCATION MATTERS

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

SCENE continues its community-centered focus by presenting some of the most exciting intellectual happenings taking place in our community. Education Matters focuses on higher education, with an emphasis on difference-making programs, professors and students. This month, we proudly feature University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee.

In nearly two decades in the field of higher education, I’ve worked

developed by Dr. Patricia Hunsader, Assistant Professor of Math-

at major campuses (Florida State University, University of Wis-

ematics and Children’s Literature in the College of Education at

consin-Madison, and Clemson University) as well as at smaller,

USFSM in conjunction with a team of USFSM Education majors.

satellite schools (University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and Eckerd College’s Sarasota branch). More than ever before, I’m convinced that you can get a first-rate education no matter the size or location of the school. A smaller campus can offer the prestige of a nationally-ranked research university with the convenience of a hometown school, and smaller class sizes that are available in a variety of on- and off-campus formats. The University of South

“At the USF (SM)2ARTFair, math, art, and fun collided in an array of neon,” says Dr. Hunsader. “Fifth-graders experienced over twenty-five hands on mathematical art projects that allowed them to explore shapes, symmetry, optical illusions, pop-ups, fractals, origami and more. This is math like you’ve never seen it – engaging, exciting, motivating... and educational, too!”

Florida Sarasota-Manatee (USFSM) is a perfect example of this,

There is a lot of interest in mathematics these days, thanks to the

making inroads into Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto County com-

governmental push for STEM (science, technology, engineering,

munities in a way most larger institutions couldn’t manage. Wit-

mathematics) fields in education. The pushback? “Math isn’t fun!”

ness two new offerings as the latest evidence.

complain students like my own daughters, who prefer Play-doh, bicycles, and the Backyardigans to math problems. But Hunsader’s project does what good education does – makes learning ac-

(SM)2ART Fair

cessible and entertaining.

On the morning of Saturday, March 3rd, USFSM hosted the

The idea for this event was a brainstorm that “stemmed from a

(SM)2ART Fair for fifth grade students. (SM)2ART stands for Sara-

desire to engage kids in mathematical art while involving my math

sota-Manatee Sensational Mathematical Art. The program was

club pre-service teachers in mathematical art experiences.” And

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with the success of this year’s event, they’re already planning how next year could be better, including adding new stations such as kaleidoscope making.

The College of Education at The University of South Florida SarasotaManatee is home to undergraduate and graduate programs readying students to enter the field of education as teachers and administrators, or become professionals who can assume roles in business, industry, and the non-profit sector related to education. With more communitycentered, hands on projects like Hunsader’s, it wouldn’t surprise me to see enrollment in this particular university boom over the next decade.

Mote Marine Laboratory Partnership Mote Marine Laboratory, a not-for-profit marine research organization established in 1955, is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in our area. (My daughters love the manatees and dolphins – if it were up to them, they would move in with the aquatic animals!) Mote employees and volunteers conduct research on coral reefs, red tide, marine mammals, sharks, fisheries, and coastal ecology. Thanks to a new partnership with USFSM, Mote will now have classrooms and teaching laboratories on its campus for USFSM students to utilize. Through this new agreement, USFSM will need to raise $1.5 million to complete the build-out of classrooms and teaching laboratories in Mote’s Ann and Alfred Goldstein Marine Mammal Research and Rehabilitation Center, which already houses a conference room and offices for Mote staff that are dedicated to dolphin, sea turtle, and manatee conservation programs. The build out will also include dry and wet teaching labs, two research labs, a lab support room, offices, two academic support rooms, and a lounge.

“Mote has a long history of working with USF in many different areas of marine research, including shark research and our Aquaculture Park in eastern Sarasota County,” said Dr. Kumar Mahadevan, President &

Students from the SM2ART Fair.

USFSM Mote Lab Floor Plan

CEO of Mote. “We’re very excited that this agreement will create new avenues for Mote staff to help educate the next generation of marine scientists and for USFSM faculty to have the opportunity to work with us on our world-recognized research programs.”

Working together, USFSM and Mote will also create joint appointments for Mote researchers who will serve as faculty, allowing USFSM faculty and students to work closely with Mote staff on the research programs and initiatives underway at Mote.

“The students become the real winners,” said Dr. Arthur Guilford, Regional Chancellor for USFSM. “This will provide them with the ability to work with exceptional scientists who are engaged in exciting fields of research. This is a unique, real world model for undergraduate research. We know that we will have support from the community in raising the money to make this exciting partnership a reality.”

Bob Carter, chairman of Mote’s Board, adds, “One of our goals when Mote’s Board of Trustees approved a new strategic plan was to set a course for the future that included supporting a new generation of marine researchers. It’s exciting to see our 2020 Vision and Strategic Plan taking shape through strong partnerships like this one with USF Sarasota-Manatee.”

Organizations like the National Science Foundation have long supported hands on research experiences for students as a way to improve the nation’s expertise in STEM fields. The Mote/USFSM partnership directly implements such a strategy for Sarasota and southwest Florida by linking the growing USFSM undergraduate science degree programs with the innovative basic research and applied science and technology programs occurring at Mote. The (SM)2ART Fair also serves these scientific goals by making math fun and getting students on the right track early. Who knows? Maybe some of the fifth graders who attend the fair or visit Mote will be finding the cause and cure of red tide in the not so distant future!

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COMPEER GULFCOAST SPRING FUNDRAISER

F

riends of the Compeer Gulfcoast program gathered for a spring fundraiser at Canandaigua National Trust Company in downtown

Sarasota. Compeer’s goal is to match a $10,000 challenge grant made available by an anonymous donor. Housed at Senior Friendship Centers, Compeer matches adults in the recovery phase of a diagnosed mental health disorder in friendship with a caring volunteer. Bunny Skirboll, founder of Compeer, was also on hand at the event, as was Ann Hartka, who helped initiate the program in Sarasota. Jennifer Archangeli is coordinator of the Compeer Gulfcoast Program.

Noleen Burch, Jennifer Archangeli, Bunny Skirboll & Todd Brooks

Bunny Skirboll, Edie Chafietz & Joy Weston

Mayor Suzanne Atwell

Joan Cohen, Hannah Weinberg & Ruth Klein

FFINITY

KITCHEN & BATH

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scene | social

Behind the Scene

Society Maven Debbi Benedict Gives the Latest Scoop

scenesarasota.com

In my yearly column of what people are reading,

my kind of book! It takes place in a small village

so far no one has admitted to reading Fifty

in the English countryside. (I love it already!) The

Shades of Grey by E.L. James. It is all the rage

retired Major is “wry, courtly, opinionated, and

around the country. Have you heard about it? It

completely endearing, leading a quiet life valuing

is the story of a handsome young entrepreneur,

the proper things that Englishmen have lived by

Christian Grey, and the naïve literature student

for generations: honor, duty, decorum, and a

who goes to interview him. I am told it is “erotic,

properly brewed cup of tea,” or so Amazon tells

amusing, and deeply moving.” Sounds like some

me. His unexpected friendship with Mrs. Ali, the

Sarasota parties you’ve told me about, Poodle.

Pakistani shopkeeper from the village, revolves

Read at your own risk! Meanwhile, this year’s

around their shared love of literature and the loss

tamer recommendations from several of my

of their spouses. Their friendship blossoms into

friends really run the gamut: enjoy!

something much more. Can their relationship

If someone tells you several times you must

survive in the face of small village culture and

read a certain book, then you know you must!

tradition? How much do you want to bet it can? It

My dear friend of many years, Jane Kiebitz,

is an enchanting ride getting there, though.

has told me repeatedly that I will love Major

Hermitage Artist Retreat board president,

Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simonson. It

Larry Bold, is reading The Judgment of Paris

was her favorite book this past season. As Jane

by Ross King. It is a detailed explanation of the

told me, it was “so civilized, so polite, so what we

birth of Impressionism that took place in Paris

possibly should aspire to be in our lives.” Sooo,

from the mid-1860s through the mid-1870s. The May 2012

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French artistic establishment used all of their power to discourage and block the rise of Impressionism, but in the end this new art form prevailed. Oh, I have this book! I bought it in the Berkshires a few years ago at the Clark Museum. I almost forgot I had it and Celebrating 26 Years In Business

I haven’t read it yet. I’ve got to remember

Opening the Doors to Beautiful Interiors

to pull that one off the bookshelf. I love all things art and Paris – divine!

Beautiful AND smart, Dr. Holly Barbour has been trying to figure out who we are, why we’re here, and what the truth really is for decades. What she has discovered is that our knowledge of science, particularly in quantum physics, and our common experiences in the arena of spirituality seem to coexist quite well together. She recently finished the book Deep Truth by Gregg Braden and has actually read everything he has ever published. He’s a former aerospace

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computer systems designer who has traveled the world and studied intensively. Holly tells me, “He’s really grounded, presents the data and analyzes it, leaving the reader to look at it critically and come to their own conclusions. The Divine Matrix is another one of his books that will give readers a handle on how he operates. The Biology of Belief, by Bruce Lipton, a molecular biologist, and Hyperspace by Michio Kaku are two others she recommends on the subject. Presently, Holly is reading Imagine

by Jonah Lehrer. It explores the science behind human creativity. She says “This is

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also a fascinating topic in the search for who we are. With much of creativity, especially in the arts, we can see how we’ve evolved way beyond ‘survival of the fittest.’ So why?

And what does it mean in our evolution as

CONCEPT AND DESIGN

a species?” How, you may ask, does the lovely Dr. Barbour have time for such in-

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depth reading? This is what she says: “I can tell you that what has in fact changed my life for the better, is the decision not to own a television. I had two in the past that finally

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succumbed to inertia and I’ve made peace with the fact that my life simply is richer without it!”

My fellow book club member, Melba Jimenez, is currently reading the biography

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Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson and finds it fascinating. She tells me, ‘Steve was full of contradictions. While always searching for Zen-like simplicity, he never attained Zenlike tranquility. While highly demanding as a person, in the end, he didn’t demand editorial control of this book, so it is a brutally honest description of a very controversial, arrogant, moody, insensitive, obsessive, influential, inspiring, control-freak, narcissistic leader and genius who saw life through the lens of what was labeled as his “Reality Distortion Field.” I thoroughly enjoyed the descriptive process of his creative thinking while designing such iconic, legendary products.”

Melba just finished Beneath a Marble Sky

by John Shors. The story takes place in the 17th century when the Emperor of India commissioned the construction of the Taj Mahal as a mausoleum to honor the death of his beloved wife, Mumtaz. She says, “This page-turner is beautifully narrated by their daughter, Jahanara. It’s a fascinating story about love, betrayal and history with subthemes such as politics, religion and Indian traditions. The author is very successful in transporting you in time and place.” Next on her list to read is 11/22/63: A Novel by our neighbor, Stephen King. This time travel story is about Jake Epping and his quest to stop the Kennedy assassination. She’s been told that this book is very different from other Stephen King books. However, it is full of suspense, accurately describes the years 1958-1963, and has an unpredictable ending. She can’t wait! If you have read it, don’t tell her!

I just adore Sally Faron! She is a crusty ol’ gal in the best sense! It doesn’t surprise me at all that this summer she intends to read Rachel Maddow’s new book, Drift, about the changes in war in recent years.

Sally says Rachel is very insightful and to an old historian like her, the book will be a treat for summer reading. She was glad the New York Times just gave it a good review, but says it is “probably a bit too liberal for most in our area.” You gotta love her!

SunTrust’s Matthew Otto told me that “with all the gloom and doom in the media,” scenesarasota.com

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You can dream it, we can build it!

he wanted to look at something that is “historically factual and positive,” so he is reading The Rational Optimist: How Prosperity Evolves, by Matt Ridley. Hmmm, sounds like the perfect book for this wealth advisor! Matt shared with me that “there will always be pessimism and pessimists. There will always be those who predict the end of the world: environmental disasters, extinction of species, hurricanes, tsunamis and – more specifically – the economic collapse of Europe and the USA, starvation and poverty in Africa, wars and riots. Add in population explosion and anthropogenic global warming and there isn’t much to be optimistic about.” Matthew assured me that Matt Ridley wrote this book not in a state of angst, but by examining the evidence with a rational mind – and we need to do the same.

For some reason, I was unfamiliar with the author and series Alice Rau is reading. Apparently I am the only one! Elizabeth George’s Believing the Lie, is her most current, sixteenth, Detective Inspector Lord Thomas Lynley book. I am told that once you read one you are hooked! Alice tells me they are very well written and it is a provocative series. In one of the reviews I read, it says Believing the Lie is “a lengthy, complex, and melodramatic tale with a large and juicy cast.”

A juicy cast? That sold me right there!

Sweet, petite, Jewel Ash’s next read is The Measure of a Man: A Spiritual Biography, by Sidney Poitier. I remember this was one of Oprah’s Book Club favorites a few years ago. We all know Oprah loves Sidney! Jewel loves to see the many facets of one’s life and has always enjoyed autobiographies. She tells me that “reading this one is long overdue.” I read many reviews about this book and they seem to be glowing. I think I may have to pick up this one, too! After

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that, Jewel’s next read is Crossing the Threshold of Hope by His Holiness, John Paul II. This book was written in 1995 and would be quite an interesting read, along with the thoughts of the current pope, Benedict. Also on Jewel’s shelf for the summer are the two latest John Grisham books. Our gal Jewel is quite the diverse reader, isn’t she?

One of my South County friends and fellow past Friends of Venice Library board member, Barbara Freeman is reading Catherine the Great: Portrait of a Woman by Robert K. Massie. She enjoys histories of famous women and the times in which they lived and this book certainly fits that category. She is one of many of my friends who is really enjoying her Kindle, which was a Christmas present. I can’t tell you how many people love those things! I am old-fashioned. I like to hold a book, feel the paper and smell the print, though I do think a Kindle or Nook would be terrific for travel. What are your feelings?

Jay Berman shared with me he likes to read about extraordinary people – so inspirational! So who’s on his list for summer reading?

Why, the Steve Jobs and Tim Tebow biographies of course! It seems like everyone is reading the Steve Jobs bio by Walter Isaacson. In an interview with Walter, I read that he said that Jobs “willfully bent reality so that you became convinced you could do the impossible, so you did. I never felt he was intentionally misleading me, but I did try to check every story. I did more than a hundred interviews. And he urged me

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not just to hear his version, but to interview as many people as possible. It was one of his many odd contradictions: He could distort reality, yet he was also brutally honest most

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of the time. He impressed upon me the value

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of honesty, rather than trying to whitewash

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things.” My book club is reading this next and

Satisfaction” – 4 Years

I can’t wait to delve into it. I bet when you read the Tim Tebow bio, Through My Eyes, now,

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you might get different insights than when it

Society – 4 Years

came out last year. Tim’s life has taken a few

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different twists and turns since then.

As I mentioned, lots of my friends are

Association of Realtors (SAR)

reading the Steve Jobs bio and Dottie Baer

– 3 year term

Garner is one of them. She says it is a MUST

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read and is thrilled that the author, Walter Isaacson, is one of our Town Hall speakers

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next year. I couldn’t agree more with you,

“Business Woman of the Year”

Dottie. I’m excited about that lecture, too!

Kirk Pinkerton attorney, Leslie Loftus is reading the series of books which started with Outlander, by Diana Gibaldon. She tells me they are a bit romantic, but real pageturners, and an accurate depiction of life in Scotland in days gone by. Leslie also just finished Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight

by Alexandra Fuller, which is a memoir. It’s a

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quick and interesting read about a British girl who grew up in Rhodesia and Mozambique and her family’s struggles, which she didn’t



seem to regard much as struggles, having known nothing different. Feeling it really puts things in perspective, Leslie says it foreshadows the movement against Kony. I know so little about that time period in that area of the world. It sounds like it would be a real eye-opener.

What I am reading? I am saving that for next month’s column – Debbi’s Top Ten Tomes for Summer. Well, they won’t all be tomes. Some are light and fun, but I just liked the alliteration!

What are you reading this summer?

Society Notes from January 1961:

Until next time....TaTa! Debbi Benedict is SCENE’s society maven and Special Issues Director. Contact Debbi at 941483-4460 or debbi@benedictandco.com scenesarasota.com

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   

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CURTAINCALL STEVEN J. SMITH REVIEWS LOCAL THEATRE

ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE

sometimes agonizing process of the creation of art. It’s not very

Fallen Angels

pretty, yet it is impossible not to be affected by it. Just watching

Julia and Jane (Kate Hampton and Hillary Clemens), two bored English wives married to Fred and Will (Jason Bradley and Andrew

the artists energetically prepare a canvas drew applause from the audience on opening night.

Carter), learn that Maurice (David Breitbarth) — a Frenchman with

Mr. Zeisler’s Rothko is a joy to watch. Tormented by the fact that

whom each had had an affair before meeting their husbands — is

he may be selling out his talent for much-needed cash, his diatribes

back in London. Filled with lusty anticipation, the two go off on an al-

on life and art are almost Shakespearean in their passion and an-

cohol-fueled evening that ends with each learning a little more about

guish. His is the performance of the season thus far. Mr. Taylor’s Ken

herself and her counterpart.

(who after an initial bout with hero-worship learns to give as good as

First produced in 1925, this early Noel Coward comedy

he gets with his employer and mentor), however, feels a bit artificial

raised eyebrows due to its “racy” content, but 21st century au-

at times, even when he recounts a tragedy in his youth that clearly

diences will probably find it a bit fluffy and dated. That said,

speaks to his art. Nevertheless, the production on the whole is abso-

there is the unmistakable germ of Coward’s pithy wit and flair

lutely compelling — and it is one you won’t want to miss.

for language that would emerge more forcefully in such ensu-

Fallen Angels plays through May 13 at the Mertz Theatre, and

ing masterworks as The Vortex, Private Lives, Blithe Spirit and

Red plays through May 6 at the Historic Asolo Theatre, just across

Design For Living. I would have preferred a production of any of

the street from Asolo Rep. Hamlet, Prince of Cuba, a spicy twist on

the latter, but it was fun to see a nascent work of this urbane and

Shakespeare’s masterpiece, runs through May 6. For more informa-

sophisticated playwright, nimbly directed by Peter Amster. Ms.

tion about the Asolo’s season, log on to www.AsoloRep.org or call

Hampton and Ms. Clemens acquit themselves admirably and Mr.

the box office at 941-351-8000.

Breitbarth’s eventual appearance is well worth the wait. Carolyn Michel also does a nice turn as Saunders, the maid who has

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE

seen it all, and the set and costumes, accurately depicted by

Sophie Tucker, Last of the Red Hot Mamas

Robert Mark Morgan and Virgil C. Johnson respectively, squarely put us in the time and place of the play.

Sophie Tucker was a force of nature — a rip-roaring, bawdy, sassy, brassy entertainer who kept her career alive by changing with the times. And this production, which was originally presented at

Red

FST back in 2000 starring Kathy Halenda, is as fresh and vibrant as

“What do you see?” asks artist Mark Rothko (Mark Zeisler), to

ever. The immensely talented Ms. Halenda hasn’t lost a beat as she

his awestruck assistant Ken (JD Taylor) at the opening of this intel-

regales the audience on the ups and downs of Tucker’s life and ca-

ligent and beautifully staged production, which won the 2010 Tony

reer, peppering the good times and bad with songs reflecting those

Award for Best Play. The subject of Rothko’s question is a pulsating

tumultuous years.

red painting destined to hang in the Four Seasons restaurant, and we

Some of my favorites included “A Good Man Is Hard To Find,”

almost immediately feel Rothko’s revulsion at the prospect of some-

“If Your Kisses Can’t Hold The Man You Love,” “There’ll Be Some

thing so raw and primal displayed in a place where it will receive little

Changes Made,” “After You’ve Gone,” “The Lady Is A Tramp,”

understanding or appreciation for what it truly is.

“Hula Lou” (in which she comically drafts several volunteers from

The Asolo bills this production as “an exploration of art, commerce, demons, ideas, and the nature of creativity,” and it is all of

the audience), the touching “Yiddishe Momme,” and the classic “The Man I Love.”

that — and more. Rothko was well known for his uncompromis-

Ingeniously woven together by Richard Hopkins with Jack

ing opinions and edifying oratories, which playwright John Logan

Fournier and Ms. Halenda and directed by Mr. Hopkins, it’s an eve-

forcefully infuses into his script and director Lou Jacob masterfully

ning of theatre at its best: storytelling through moving monologues

extracts from it. We are present in the gritty, dirty, passionate, and

and engaging songs.

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Jericho Beautifully written by Jack Canfora, this play takes a deeply touching and intelligently humorous look at the long-lasting consequences of 9/11 — and of being Jewish. At the heart of the story is Beth (Eleanor Handley, in a winningly heartfelt performance), who struggles four years after 9/11 to recover from the loss of her husband Alec (Will Little, who doubles as Beth’s therapist).

As she attempts to build a new relationship with Ethan (Michael Satow), she meets and ultimately forms a bond with his brother Josh (Mark Light-Orr), who also worked in

Trevor T. Taylor

the Trade Towers that fateful day. ner that takes place in the Jericho, Long Island home of Rachel (Diane Ciesla), mother

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formance) that stem in large part from his traumatic 9/11 experience. He plans to diregain a sense of community that he can’t find in the States.

Fraught with emotions, confrontations, and the hard reality that tragedy forever changes one’s life and perceptions of the world, the actors and director Kate Alexander bring a stirring and chilling sense of what it means to survive one of the worst days in U.S. history and find a way to move on.

Special mention must also go to Bob Phillips’ set, which to me reflects the irreparable gash torn into our collective consciousness since 9/11. I loved how the colors that were splashed over the floor and backdrop seemed to constantly change under Bryon Winn’s thoughtful lighting, wonderfully reflecting the mood of each scene.

Jericho runs at the Keating Theatre through June 9. For more info or to book tickets log on to www.FloridaStudioTheatre. org or call 941-366-9000.

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scene | performing arts

CALENDAR LOVE PERFORMING ARTS? GET YOUR TICKETS TO THE BEST PERFORMANCES IN TOWN

ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE 941.351.8000 / asolorep.org Fallen Angels Through May 13 A brilliant comedy about desperate housewives, this is Noël Coward at his best – sharp, witty and utterly sophisticated.

Fanny Brice, America’s Funny Girl May 20 – June 17 Fanny Brice’s gift for comedy and expressive singing made her one of the most beloved celebrities of the American theatre.

Seven Brides for Seven Brothers May 3 –21 Bursting with the rambunctious energy of the original film, Seven Brides harkens back to the glory days of the movie musical.

RINGLING MUSEUM OF ART 941.359.5700 / ringling.org Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota The Gershwins Remembered May 6 and 8 Three outstanding singers join forces to bring you the music and lyrics of George and Ira Gershwin.

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE (FST) 941.366.9000 / floridastudiotheatre.org Favorite Poem Project (Keating Theatre) May 11 Community poetry reading, emceed by past United States Poet Laureate Robert Pinsky.

Piano Virtuosity Then and Now May 20 and 22 Music of Liszt, Rachmaninoff, and Kapustin as performed by Marina Lomazov.

VENICE THEATRE 941.488.1115 / venicestage.com

Jericho (Keating Theatre) Through June 9 In 2005, a Jewish 9/11 survivor and a Palestinian 9/11 widow find themselves embroiled in one family’s personal and political dramas. With surprising humor and wit, Jericho reminds us that all struggles are ultimately personal.

Reel Music (Goldstein Cabaret) Through June 17 Journey from the Land of Oz to the nightclubs of Casablanca to the high-flying adventure of Top Gun in a celebration of the greatest movie songs ever written.

THE GOLDEN APPLE DINNER THEATRE 941.366.5454 / thegoldenapple.com Moonlight and Magnolias by Ron Hutchison May 5 – July 17 David O. Selznick is determined to rewrite Gone With The Wind – aided by a script doctor who’s never read the book and a director whose tastes are more Yellow Brick Road than Sherman’s march to the sea.

MANATEE PLAYERS 941.748.5875 / manateeplayers.com

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May 2012

Driving Miss Daisy (Venice Theatre MainStage) May 8 – 20 This sentimental comedy spans 25 years in the lives of a stubborn Southern matriarch and her proud chauffer.

The Phantom Tollbooth (Pinkerton Theatre) May 17 – 27 Adapted from the classic children’s book by Norton Juster. Follow Milo through his adventures in the Land of Wisdom as he rescues two princesses from The Land of Ignorance.

17th Annual Loveland Follies (Venice Theatre MainStage) May 31 – June 3 Venice Theatre partners with the Loveland Center each year: the end result is their Follies.

WESTCOAST BLACK THEATRE TROUPE 941.366.1505 / wbttroupe.org Blackbird: The Story of Josephine Baker Through May 13 This funny, sexy, exuberant world premiere, written by an awardwinning playwright, traces the life of Josephine Baker from Jim Crow America to Paris, where she became a stage sensation. scenesarasota.com

scene | social

The WRCSC’s 2012 Renaissance Luncheon T his annual luncheon marked the WRCSC’s 33rd year of positively impacting the women and families of Sarasota

County. This year’s keynote speaker was author Gail Sheehy (Passages) and the emcee was Michael Saunders; Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe also entertained with selected songs from Blackbird. The event proceeds benefit the Women’s Resource Center of Sarasota County, Inc., whose mission is “creating personal, social, and professional growth opportunities for all women by providing women with strategies for living that strengthen themselves, their families, and their communities."

Roxanne Fugelberg, Gloria Newcomb, Gail Sheehy, Melodee Dogherty & Phyllis Werber

Michael Saunders, Gail Sheehy, Janice Zarro & Lydia McIntire

Maci McGee & Susan Merrill with Parker

Eva Slane, Christine Jennings, Janice Zarro & Norma Cohen

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scene | giving

By Joy Weston

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

“Those who do not have power over the story that dominates their lives,

the power to retell it, rethink it, deconstruct it, joke about it, and change it as times change, truly are powerless, because they cannot think new thoughts.”

– Salman Rushdie

Once upon a time. In a land far, far away. In a place beyond mea-

mal cells grow out of control. It’s yet another disease for which we still

sure. On the other side of yesterday in a time neither now nor then.

haven’t been able to find a cure. But thanks to some amazing individu-

What images do these words conjure up for you? Where do they take

als and organizations whose stories you are about to read, there is a

you and what emotions do they stir within? For me, as a writer and

real possibility that won’t always be the case. Their commitment and

storyteller, these simple words are the keys that open the gates to a

perseverance are true stories of Joy.

magical journey into the world of imagination. A world where no matter

“One person can make a difference,” is the running theme be-

what the story and no matter what insights or message of wisdom it

hind the efforts that have gone into creating the Moffitt Cancer Cen-

might contain, sometimes something truly remarkable happens. Once

ter (MCC), a world-renowned cancer research and treatment facility

we acknowledge that the world as we know it is our created universe,

that has garnered one of the highest distinctions – a National Cancer

and that the stories we tell ourselves from the day we are born to the

Institute Comprehensive Cancer Center. This story begins when Lee

day we die are roadmaps, then the unimaginable can be revealed.

Moffitt, a highly motivated 29-year-old attorney and Florida state rep-

The truth of it is, we live for stories: not just quick shots of informa-

resentative fighting his own battle with cancer, began to think beyond

tion, but strong long threads that keep us connected to the past, the

his own illness and envisioned an institution that would study the root

present, and our future. We love hearing our favorite stories told over

causes of the disease, seek ways to destroy it, and care for hundreds

and over again. Why else do we insist on watching The Wizard of Oz,

of thousands of people in the process. Bottom line – a place that would

Gone with the Wind or Miracle on 34th Street again every year? Or

do whatever it would take to make the cure a reality. One person mak-

willingly engage with friends, colleagues, or family members to retell a

ing a difference is truly the life lesson that this remarkable man has

story we’ve heard a million times before? Because these stories com-

taught so many.

fort, excite, awaken, provoke, challenge, arouse, inspire and educate

Recently I was at a wonderful luncheon honoring MCC at The Ritz

us. And when they touch our hearts and make us want to be or do

Carlton, where the Mistress of Ceremonies was Olivia Newton-John

something more, we embrace and keep them with us for eternity.

(award-winning singer, actress, humanitarian and cancer advocate,

The following stories are filled with exceptional examples of the phil-

who in 2009 joined the Moffitt Cancer Center’s National Board of Advi-

anthropic spirit that reflect on personal experiences that can help us

sors). Because SCENE Magazine is read by people in the know, I was

better navigate the journey of a giving life. Stories that, if heard with an

offered the rare gift of interviewing Olivia for “Stories of Joy.” There

inner ear, contain key messages unconsciously learned that you are

we were, the fabulous ageless Olivia and little old me morphing into a

hopefully inspired to apply in your life.

“I wanted a perfect ending. Now I’ve learned, the

younger version of Barbara Walters asking the hard questions, beginning with, “Why Moffitt?”

hard way, that some poems don’t rhyme, and some stories don’t have a clear beginning, middle, and end.

Life is about not knowing, having to change, taking the moment and making the best of it, without knowing what’s going to happen next. Delicious ambiguity.”

Olivia Newton-John: “I have been an advocate for finding a cure

– Gilda Radner

days later I went for a partial mastectomy and breast reconstruction,

for cancer for decades now, since my daughter’s best friend died of a cancerous tumor in the 80s. I became a spokesperson for their foundation. Then in June 1992 while doing my own breast self-exam, I discovered a lump in my breast. My instinct said it didn’t feel right, so I had a lumpectomy. I then got the news that it was cancer. A few

Cancer, the general name for a group of 100 diseases, was the sick-

followed by a year of chemotherapy mixed with alternative medicine

ness that took the brilliant actress Gilda Radner from this world. And

to help me get stronger. The entire experience was very traumatic. I

although there are many kinds of cancer, they all start because abnor-

actually needed counseling afterwards. Now twenty years later, I am

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a passionate advocate for encouraging women to take a more active role in their own health and early detection.

make one story become the only story.”

– Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

A few years back, I decided to take up residence in Jupiter, Florida, right around the corner from my hero, Lee Moffitt. By being on the Moffitt National Board of Advisors, I can help raise awareness of Moffitt and its mission to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer, and still partner with the Austin & Repatriation Medical Centre to create the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre in my hometown of Melbourne, Australia.

And yes, Joy, I am human and have gotten depressed and have used medication for it, but I’ve learned to chant and do yoga to center myself and that’s helped a lot. And even though the new cookbook I have coming out is all about eating healthy to stay healthy, I do enjoy an occasional white bread sandwich and lots of dark chocolate!”

OK, I was not as tough an interviewer as Babs, but I tried!

“Life will go on as long as there is someone to sing, to dance, to tell stories to and to listen.”

The Neuro Challenge Foundation’s recent fundraiser helped raise funds to support individuals affected by Parkinson’s disease in Southwest Florida through service, education and research. It was chaired

by Donna Sutherland, an active community healthcare philanthropist for more than 25 years, and Judith Bell, a well respected nonprofit educator who is also the Foundation’s Executive Director. Even though 7 to 10 million people are living with it, 15,000 in our area alone, there is still no cure for this chronic and progressive movement disorder. I attended this fundraiser and had the pleasure of sitting with Susan Page, a charming woman dealing with Parkinson’s herself, and her husband Bruce Page, the Market President for Cadence Bank.

Bruce is a banker who came out of early retirement from SunTrust to take the top position with Cadence Bank and a “triathlon addict” who does Olympic-distance events for mental and emotional release. He is also a major supporter of the Neuro Challenge Foundation.

– Oren Lyons

Bruce Page: “My father had Parkinson’s over 25 years ago when

In 1992, Jimmy Valvano, the 1983 NCAA National Basketball Cham-

hard on all concerned. When my wife Susan was diagnosed with

pionship coach, ABC/ESPN basketball commentator and analyst, au-

the same condition, the difference between the research and treat-

thor and motivational speaker, was diagnosed with terminal cancer. In

ments that are now available and how you go about treating it is

early 1993, during Valvano’s battle with the disease, The V Foundation

amazing. The Neuro Challenge group and Sarasota Memorial’s

for Cancer Research was founded with the assistance of ESPN to raise

Health Plex Fitness Center make you realize that Parkinson’s and

funds for the research and cure of cancer. A few short months later, this

other similar disorders are simply conditions. We all carry conditions

killer took his life. His dear friend Dick Vitale, a colorful and well-known

within our bodies, whether we know it or not.

college basketball sportscaster and former head coach in the college

They help to take away the stigma by networking with diverse groups

and professional ranks, swore to continue the fight against cancer after

of folks, keeping you active so as to slow or even in some cases stop

hearing his good friend’s words, “Don’t give up...Don’t ever give up®.”

the progression. Being active and not isolated is so very important:

So far Dick, his beautiful wife Lorraine and their supportive family and

using the mind, body and spirit. Both Susan and I have enjoyed the

friends have tirelessly raised over $6.5 million dollars, and that does not

social side and seen the huge difference it has made. A dinner and

include the upcoming May 18th Dick Vitale Gala at the Ritz-Carlton! To

fashion show using models with Parkinson’s would never have hap-

date, the Foundation has raised over $120 million for research, directly

pened 10—15 years ago, yet this year it was a sold-out event! These

donating 100% of net profits.

groups are making a major difference in the quality of life, and I am

Lori Mishos, a financial advisor with VALIC, is a huge supporter of the Team Tony Foundation and the V Foundation, and is now battling cancer with her husband and best friend Pete, their kids and grandkids (who, according to Lori, “put fun in dysfunctional”) at her side.

Lori Mishos: “I consider myself a blessed woman, and try to give my support wherever I can. There are no words that can express what the V Foundation does for those going through cancer: finding and dedicating their resources to the brightest minds to find the cures for over 200 different types of cancers, plus giving over 450 grants to pioneer different research and committed organizations.

But our true local heroes are Lorraine and Dick Vitale. They don’t have to do this, but if you tell them that, their answer would be “Yes, we do!” Their energy and passion are enormous inspirations for how to give back to the family, a cause, your community. They are an incredible gift to this world, and their motto is now my motto: “If you can’t do great things, do small things in a great way.”

“The single story creates stereotypes, and

the problem with stereotypes is not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete. They

very little was known about it, so the stigma was pretty bad and

proud to be a part of it.”

“I will tell you something about stories, they aren’t just

entertainment. Don’t be fooled. They are all we have, you see, ALL we have to fight off illness and death.”

– Leslie Marmon Silk

I was recently introduced to an organization that also deals with the unmentionable – mental illness – and even though the organization has been in existence for over 36 years with national and international success in over 80 locations, it is new to Sarasota. The Compeer Program matches adults in the recovery phase of a diagnosed mental health issue (such as schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, eating, or manic-depressive disorders) with caring volunteers of the same gender in friendship.

“The Energizer” Bunny Skirboll, a Longboat Key resident and committed philanthropic volunteer, after having a near fatal car accident, experienced the need for the positive results someone gets from the support of caring friends. So much so that when working at the Rochester Psychiatric Center, she founded a community service program to bring friendship and mentoring programs to people undergoing treatment for mental illness. Thanks to Bunny and Ann Hartka, who experienced her

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May 2012

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83

cousin’s remarkable recovery in Philadelphia and wanted to make it a

Good” and they do that for all with whom they come in contact.

reality here, this program is now at The Senior Friendship Center.

Now I give my resources as much as I can, whenever I can. It’s

Bunny Skirboll: “Even though I am supposed to be cutting back on my involvements, I am so thrilled to see this amazing program lasting the test of time. I just had to get involved with the original task force here in Sarasota and I now serve on the Advisory Board. Compeer brings a much needed new service to people diagnosed with mental illness in our community, by providing a volunteer supportive friend as an adjunct to therapy to help in their recovery.

an amazing organization. There but for the grace of God go all of us!”

“Stories are the creative conversion of life itself into

a more powerful, clearer, more meaningful experience. They are the currency of human contact.”

– Robert McKee

I serve on the boards of the Glasser-Schoenbaum Human Services Center, the Jewish Federation of Sarasota, Canandaigua National Trust Bank, and for the fourth year I am co-chairing the Sarasota Orchestra’s opening brunch. And at each place I meet someone who has a friend or family member who can benefit from this program. I feel great joy in sharing Compeer with them and the difference it will make. Sometimes it is the simplest gestures that have the biggest impact.”

“If stories come to you, care for them. And learn to

give them away where they are needed. Sometimes a person needs a story more than food to stay alive.”

– Barry Lopez, in Crow and Weasel

Later that week I was at the American Jewish Committee dinner honoring Ernie and Alisa Kretzmer – two individuals who have given so much to our community and the world at large – and then at the Jewish Federation Women’s Passover celebration. These events included both Jewish and non-Jewish guests, and among them was this really special Christian woman who has spent more than a decade giving and working to support the state of Israel. Another example of love that has no restrictions. I love it!

Gail Cox is a fascinating woman who has created her life out of her passions and beliefs. Raised in a Catholic home in a small town in Massachusetts, this former teacher with a Master's in special education had various leadership roles and was active in politics. She gave up formal

Recently I attended the Glitz at the Ritz luncheon benefitting The

religious practices before she almost died from terminal cancer. It wasn’t

Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian church

until a family member and close friend’s praying resulted in a miraculous

established in 1865 with a commitment to serve the whole person,

healing that she became a born again Christian. Years later after retiring,

body, mind and spirit with integrity and respect. The Salvation Army

she went on a church trip to Israel, and it was love at first sight. She went

has helped nearly 30 million Americans in 5,000 communities nation-

on to create tours and returned over 70 times, and in 1999 answered a

wide through the broadest array of social services: providing food for

calling to live there. She immediately got a volunteer position with the

the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, out-

International Christian Embassy in Jerusalem. There is a yearly event

reach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless, and

called The Feast of Tabernacles which, through the efforts of 100 global

opportunities for underprivileged children.

ICEJ locations, unites Israel with other nations.

My adored Betty Schoenbaum, during her introduction speech of

Gail Cox: “Thanks to Israel and my connection with the Jewish peo-

the honorees, shared that her husband, “a nice Jewish boy,” had been

ple, my core faith has been strengthened. Through my deep love and

instrumental in raising over $31 million dollars for SA. And when I real-

respect for the inner workings of Israel and the Jewish people and

ized that the beloved philanthropic couple being honored at the event

their commitment to their country for a safe world for all people to live

were Margot and Warren Coville, another “nice Jewish boy and girl,” it

in, I saw that we must wake up to help each other as we are all being

really struck me as a magnificent example of how giving back can and

targeted. After a time, I got involved again with the Jewish Federa-

must cross any false barrier of ethnic, sex or religion differences if we are

tion because of my friend Nancy Shedlaz with the Israeli Minister of

ever to have a chance of healing this planet.

Tourism's office, who was visiting from Israel . She wanted to visit the

I met Marcia Sohl, a retired teacher from NYC who was never really

office to meet Howard Tevolwitz who was just starting an initiative to

aware of any particular charitable or religious needs until she mentioned

cement the positive relationships between Christians and Jews. As

to Kitty, her physical therapist, a desire to get a “volunteer job” some-

they both said that day, this meeting was bashert (fate). Gail is now

where. That lead to an introduction to Glenda Leonard, a warm bright

co-chair of the Jewish Federation’s 65th birthday event celebrating

light who brilliantly represents The Salvation Army, who welcomed Mar-

Israel’s independence.

cia to do anything and everything she so desired.

As Hans Christian Anderson said, “Life itself is the most wonderful story,” and it is our job to keep the passion and enthusiasm alive.

Marcia Sohl: “Working with this incredible organization and

Sharing the heartfelt stories of people who care is one way of paying it

the loving and committed staff they have brought together is

forward, and the individual who reads it and is moved to get involved is

remarkable and magical at the same time. One of my favorite

another. And with this in mind, maybe one day the last line of my piece

programs is for single parents or families in transitional housing,

will say...And they all lived happily ever after: Amen. En-JOY!

regardless of ethnicity or religion. The gal who willingly shared her story at the luncheon went from being homeless in a pod in jail for drug users to getting into our RFDU program. Then our FAITH program, then getting a good job and a Habitat apartment with her child, and they are now waiting to be cleared for a

Joy Weston is an internationally bestselling author, speaker, presentation coach and a devotee of making a difference. Contact Joy@JoyWeston.com.

Habitat home! The Salvation Army’s tag line is “Doing The Most

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scene | business NEW AROUND TOWN LUMINOUS ELECTRIC

2ND ANN ROSE CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE

John Leavy of Luminous Electric has a strong connection with Southwest Florida, a connection that has lasted for decades, and

Located in San Marco Plaza, 2nd Ann Rose Consignment Bou-

pulled him back across an entire ocean. Leavy, who has 25 years

tique proves that great style is truly timeless. Owner Barb Smith’s

of experience as an electrical contractor, had returned to his na-

36 years of retail experience provides inspiration for her to curate

tive County Laois in Ireland after a successful nine years of work

a gorgeous selection of designer clothing, home goods, furniture,

in New York. But something was calling him and his wife Jo back

handbags, jewelry, and rugs. A portion of the proceeds from each

to the Suncoast. So they moved back, children in tow, and are

purchase benefit local charities, including the Safe Haven Animal

now proud to serve Manatee and Sarasota counties with custom

Rescue of Florida and The Cancer Support Center of Lakewood

residential electrical installation, maintenance and repair. Luminous

Ranch. Having been open just more than a year, Smith is already

Electric is a full service licensed electrical contractor, and Leavy is

well on her way to a steady stream of beautiful pieces that help you

committed to exceptional quality and impeccable results. Devoted

take part in the cycle of philanthropy. Weekly Wine Wednesdays

to customer service, the highest tenet of the business is that client

keep things lively, and with new arrivals every day there is always a

satisfaction is assured. For more information, please call John at

fantastic find waiting to catch your eye. Call 941.799.4213 or stop

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by 2ndannrose.com to find out more.

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The Montgomery family of Carpets Plus has been providing value and

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your pet may be. Their new Lakewood Ranch inpatient facility has an

fill. In addition to their work in homes, Montgomery’s also specializes

in-house pharmacy and access to specialists in medical, surgical, and

in assisted living facilities, banks, and churches. And since adding a

dental care. But these are doctors who have not lost the habit of house

new Lakewood Ranch location to the flagship store in Venice, they’ve

calls either – the All Pets Mobile Animal Clinic is happy to come right to

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scene | health matters

Thyroid Eye Disease

By Dr. Paul Brannan Did you know that having an over or under active thyroid can be associated with eyelid or eye socket abnormalities?

What are the common ocular symptoms of individuals with thyroid disease?

Eye discomfort, tearing, double vision, light sensitivity, blurred vision and loss of vision and swelling around the eyes.

What are the ophthalmic findings associated with thyroid disease?

Dr. Paul Brannan practices at the Institute for Advanced Medicine, 5880 Rand Blvd. Suite 201, Sarasota. 941.925.DOCS (3627) / www.skineyedocs.com

Eyelid retraction (eyelids open too far and may not close), bulging of the eyes, restriction of the eye muscles, red and swollen eyes, compression and damage to the optic nerve.

Graves’ disease is a syndrome that includes hyperthyroidism, eye socket abnormalities and swelling of the lower legs. Clinical symptoms vary from person to person, and thankfully the eye and eyelid findings tend to be relatively mild when present. As an oculofacial surgeon, I am involved during and after the inflammatory phase of the disease which can last 12-18 months. Initially, all clinical efforts are directed at protecting the eye and controlling the hormone levels of the thyroid. The eye surface has to be protected from damage and dryness caused by dysfunction of the eyelids and poor eyelid closure. In cases when visual compromise is present, urgent surgery may be required to decompress the eye socket as a result of the swelling. Once the thyroid is stable, surgery can be done to correct any eyelid malpositions or excessive bulging of the eye socket.

Do you need to worry?

If you have abnormal thyroid activity and have received any kind of treatment, medical or surgical, you may be at risk for ophthalmic problems. This may occur before, concurrent with, or after the diagnosis of the thyroid condition is made, but on average, ophthalmic findings occur within a year of diagnosing hyperthyroidism. Surprisingly, undiagnosed hyperthyroidism can be revealed based upon abnormal ophthalmic findings. The most common finding is a retracted eyelid that appears to be open too far with too much of the white part of the eye visible.

Why is there a correlation between an abnormal thyroid and problems with the eyes?

The current theory arises from the embryologic similarity of the tissue around the eyes and the thyroid gland. Antibodies are known to stimulate the thyroid in Graves’ disease, which causes the gland to become inflamed and overactive, leading to an increased heart rate, a faster metabolism, weight loss, irritability, and anxiousness. The same antibodies may react to the connective tissues around the eyes, causing them to become inflamed and swollen.

Are there any modifiable risk factors to prevent worsening of eye disease if my thyroid is abnormal?

Yes. Smoking is known to exacerbate thyroid eye disease and cessation has been shown to improve eye symptoms and findings....another good reason to quit smoking.

Of course, the goal is to stabilize the thyroid levels and diagnose instability early, but it is reassuring to have an oculofacial expert available if you suffer from permanent distortion of the eyelids and the socket!

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scene | health matters

What To Do About A Hernia

By Jonathan Yunis, MD, FACS

So what is a hernia ?

A hernia is a defect in a structure that allows something to pass through it. In the case of a hernia of the abdominal wall, the “something” is often the intestine. The protrusion of intestine or even internal fat can cause significant pain and in some cases a surgical emergency.

The most common hernias occur in the groin (inguinal hernia) and in the belly button (umbilical hernia). Many occur in areas of previous surgical incisions (ventral hernias) in the abdominal wall.

Dr. Jonathan Yunis practices

If it doesn’t hurt, should it be repaired?

The natural history of a hernia left untreated is unpredictable. Many people tolerate it without

at Center for Hernia Repair,

pain or emergency for a lifetime. Many will suffer great pain and demand repair. Some will pres-

1921 Waldemere St., Ste. 504,

ent to the emergency room with incarceration (intestines trapped in the hernia) and strangula-

Sarasota. 941.953.5917/www.

tion (compromised blood flow to the trapped intestine) of the hernia.

centerforherniarepair.com The decision for repair is best left to your physician and may be influenced by your age, medical condition and characteristics of your hernia. Certainly, the risk of your repair should be lower than your risk of leaving it untreated.

How should my hernia be fixed?

For any given hernia, there are several options for repair. The decision for different techniques is best made by someone who has experience in all of them. The type of hernia repair should be customized for each patient. Advanced age and other comorbid conditions influence these choices.

Most hernia repairs utilize a mesh material which functions as a patch of the abdominal wall.

Each type of hernia may demand a special mesh chosen from several on the market. The materials range from polypropylene to Dacron to Gore-Tex. A new class of “biological mesh” from pigs and cows is finding a place in the management of hernias in the face of infection.

Hernias can be approached surgically with a knife from the outside of the hernia (open repair) and laparoscopically though 12 mm and 5 mm incisions. A telescopic lenses attached to a high definition video camera allows for a more precise surgical procedure. The laparoscopic technique is usually associated with less pain, less risk of infection, and earlier return to work and sports. Most will return to work within one week and play golf in 10 days. Open repairs certainly have their place and are often advantageous for improved cosmetic outcomes and abdominal wall contour. Open repair of inguinal hernias may allow for the avoidance of general anesthesia, which may be important for those with other risk factors.

Hernias may present in many different ways. In some people, watchful waiting may be best.

Most will benefit from a minimally invasive laparoscopic approach and return home the same day. The appropriate repair for a select few may be a complex open reconstruction of the abdominal wall with hospitalization for up to a week. No matter what type of hernia you have, a customized approach is best. scenesarasota.com

May 2012

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NEWS SHAPING

OUR COMMUNITY LAKEWOOD RANCH BEATS NATIONAL NEW HOME SALES TRENDS

In the first quarter of 2012, new home sales in Lakewood Ranch surpassed last year’s numbers by 35 percent. There were 123 sales this quarter, compared to 91 in 2011. Of the 123 new home sales, 22 were in Esplanade, Taylor Morrison’s new active lifestyle community that just opened this year. The average sales price of a new home in Lakewood Ranch was $385,000 during the first quarter – and with 18 new home builders on the Ranch, there are currently 60 inventory homes available and close to 200 homes under construction. www.lakewoodranch.com

DENNIS STOVER NAMED TO VICE CHANCELLORSHIP AT USF SARASOTA-MANATEE Dennis Stover has joined The University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee (USFSM) as Regional Vice Chancellor for Advancement. He is responsible for donor relations and fundraising. Prior to joining USFSM, he served as Vice President of Philanthropy for New College Foundation and Senior Vice President for Development at Senior Friendship Centers in Sarasota. Stover has lived in Sarasota for 11 years and leads the Volunteer Community Connections as the Board Chair and serves on the Board of the Association of Fundraising Profession of the Southwest Florida. He is a trained teacher, facilitator and educator and has a B.S. and M.S. from Indiana University. www.sarasota.usf.edu

PNC ADDS SENIOR BANKING ADVISOR PNC Wealth Management has named David Dettmann as vice president, senior banking advisor of its Sarasota location. With more than 25 years of financial services industry experience, Dettmann joins PNC’s Wealth Management team specializing in personalized comprehensive relationship management and loan and deposit advisory solutions. Prior to joining PNC Wealth Management, Dettmann served as senior vice president, private banking manager with M&I Wealth Management and vice president, private banking manager with Northern Trust. Dettmann holds a bachelor’s degree from Western Illinois University and current serves as the director of the State College of Florida Foundation. www.pnc.com

DOCTORS HOSPITAL OF SARASOTA NAMES FRIST HUMANITARIAN AWARD WINNERS Thomas Sweeney, II, MD, Susan Kramer and Joan White were recently awarded the Frist Humanitarian Award. This award is the highest honor a physician, employee and volunteer can receive at Doctors Hospital of Sarasota. Thomas Sweeney, MD, PhD is a fellowship trained spine surgeon and active humanitarian who travels to St. Martin to provide healthcare to the underprivileged and is also helping to build a hospital there for those in need. Susan Kramer has been an employee of Doctors Hospital for over 15 years; she collects medical and surgical supplies for Agape Mission En-

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terprises and volunteers in medical care in the Dominican Republic. Joan White has been a volunteer at Doctors Hospital for over 17 years, serving the hospital as chairperson for outpatient, fundraising for the auxiliary and past president of the auxiliary. www.doctorsofsarasota.com

NEW WEBSITE OFFERS LOCAL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Residents and visitors from Boca Grande to Manatee County have a new website where they can search for volunteer opportunities that perfectly match their interests and availability. The site, which is designed to make it equally easy to sign up for a volunteer job or recommend one to a friend, is called: “You’d Be Perfect for This.” Created and launched earlier this year by Gulf Coast Community Foundation, YoudBePerfectforThis.org offers community organizations a free, colorful, and feature-rich website where they can advertise volunteer needs and connect with citizens who want to fill them. www.youdbeperfectforthis.org

JFCS ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD MEMBERS The Jewish Family and Children’s Service recently announced new board members. Karin Grablin, Mike Harshman, and Nora Patterson were elected to their first three year terms, while Dr. Suzanne Bralow, Harvey Gleeksman, and Kathy Killion will be beginning their second terms. Jewish Family & Children’s Service of Sarasota-Manatee’s focus is to provide services on a non-denominational basis that touch the entire community, helping individuals overcome life challenges and empowering the community. www.jfcs-cares.org

SMH-COLUMBIA MEDICAL CENTER PARTNER TO PROVIDE LEADING EDGE HEART CARE A new collaboration between Sarasota Memorial Health Care System and Columbia University Medical Center’s Division of Cardiac Surgery will offer patients greater access to the latest innovations and treatment options in cardiac care. The affiliation with Columbia’s Division of Cardiac Surgery, ranked sixth in the nation for cardiovascular care by U.S. News & World Report, gives Sarasota Memorial and its physicians 24/7 access to the cardiac surgery faculty and researchers at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons medical school for case consultation, as well as the latest teaching, research initiatives and clinical trials under way in the academic setting. www.smh.com

AREA’S HIGHEST PRICED HOME SALE IN 2012 The area’s highest priced home sale of 2012, and the highest since last July is a luxury waterfront property listed by Linda Dickinson of Michael Saunders & Company. The sale price was $7.1 million. Dickinson, an agent in the firm’s Palmer Ranch office, has been the company’s top producing individual agent for the past eight years. www.michaelsaunders.com scenesarasota.com

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