May2015

INSPIRED LIVING Building A New Standard In Senior Communities Families & Foundations

Improving Lives Through Education

Teen Wonders Secrets to Success

Multigenerational Family Businesses

Graci McGillicuddy A Voice for Children

MAY 2015 $3.95 U.S.

team of builders

experienced

detail

attention to

Come and see this beautiful Emerald Homes Toscana model, well equipped for both private relaxation and grand entertaining. This home offers a dramatic collection of interior rooms complimented by 3 extensive outdoor spaces. This model boast 5 large bedrooms with 6 full bathrooms plus a powder room, and pocket office. Dramatic staircase leads to a huge bonus room with wet bar and 2nd story covered balcony. The Master Suite is luxury defined boasting separate closets, wonderful built-ins and master en-suite that includes double vanities, a stand-alone garden tub and walk in shower with dual shower heads. Gourmet kitchen with large center island is a chef’s delight with Monogram gas appliances, walk in pantry and wine room. The outdoor living area doesn’t get better than this with stone trimmed outdoor kitchen, cozy fire pit, travertine deck with expansive lanais and a resort style pool & spa all with views of the lake and golf course.

emerald homes has created a tradition of excellence by developing innovative home designs and crafting luxury homes with meticulous attention to detail for over a decade

excellence

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Featured at The Concession the toscana

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visit the concession real estate sales office for your private tour of the toscana by emerald homes 8305 Lindrick Lane | Bradenton, FL 34202 | (941) 388-0501 Monday - Saturday, 10am - 5pm | Sunday Noon - 5pm

A S P E CTAC U L A R V I E W

of Living

Once you see Plymouth Harbor and meet the people who call it home, you will change the way you think about your future.

You’ll meet active, independent-minded people from around the world — who share a love of boating, a passion for helping others, and a natural spirit of friendship.

Our view on whole person wellness emphasizes a multi-dimensional approach maintaining broad interests and a healthy lifestyle for an active mind and body. Residents treasure the time they spend in their lovely, spacious apartment homes

– yet appreciate all of the thoughtful services and amenities that are part of the Plymouth Harbor lifestyle. And they love the beautiful setting that looks like a first-class resort, but feels just like home.

If you love gracious living and the finer points of a sunrise and a sunset over Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, then Plymouth Harbor is the place for you.

Come see for yourself – and get a new perspective on retirement living. Call us today for a tour of our award-winning campus, luxury accommodations and amenities.

A S P E C TA C U L A R V I E W O F R E T I R E M E N T 700 John Ringling Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34236 • (941) 365-2600 • www.PlymouthHarbor.org A Not-For-Profit Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). OIR #88039

AN EXCEPTIONAL, LUXURIOUS NOT-FOR-PROFIT CARE FACILITY

NOW ACCEPTING MEDICARE, INSURANCE AND PRIVATE PAY PATIENTS

MEDICAL CARE & SUPERVISION

SPECIALIZED REHABILITIATION SERVICES

• With its 120-bed Skilled Nursing facility, the amenities and services are exceptional

• Through the innovative “Bounce Back” program, you can Rehab, Recover, Return Home®

• Personal Physicians

• Interdisciplinary Team of Experienced Professionals

• 24/7 RN, LPN and CMA Staffing

• State-of-the-Art Therapy Equipment

• Licensed Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapists

• Evidence-based care & Individualized Treatment

• Registered Dietician and Nutritional Management

• Physical, Occupational & Speech Rehabilitative Therapies

• Social Services

• Case Management to Maximize Benefits

• Full-Time Activities Director

• AJs Fitness, an onsite, outpatient Center, helps you focus on Flexibility, Strength Training, Balance & Endurance

License # SNF130471051

EOE

CALL OR STOP BY FOR YOUR PERSONAL TOUR 5381 Desoto Road | Sarasota, FL 34235 | 941.355.6111 | www.hawthornevillageofsarasota.com

I’m 1 #

at Doctors Hospital

“ I teach tennis and in May, I had a total hip replacement. The staff at Doctors Hospital felt I was there for something that would enhance my life and I was very pleased with the services.

My tennis game has really improved and I feel I’m able to move faster. I consider myself a lucky guy. Read more about my experience at DoctorsOfSarasota.com/Moros.”

—Julio Moros, Sarasota FL Tennis Pro Total Hip Replacement

5731 Bee Ridge Road at Cattlemen Road, Sarasota DoctorsOfSarasota.com | 1.888.685.1596 8

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May 2015

scenesarasota.com

Š2015 California Closet Company, Inc. All rights reserved.

Franchises independently owned and operated.

bedroom

garage

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wa l l b e d

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Your home is a sanctuary and should be as beautiful as you can imagine. Let California Closets design a custom system just for you and the way you live, and help make your dream home a reality with our exclusive materials and exceptional designs.

Visit our Tampa or Sarasota showroom or call us today for a free design consultation.

SHOWROOMS TAMPA 2906 West Kennedy Blvd. SARASOTA 4049 Clark Rd. 727.573.0700 CaliforniaClosets.com

Family Issue May 2015

Volume 58 No. 5

72

42 32 INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR VS. EMPLOYEE Complex Issue Can Prove Costly to Business

By Sue Engelhart

39 BIG CITY SPIRIT WITH A SMALL TOWN TOUCH Rugs As Art

59 TEEN WONDERS

By Sue Cullen

Photography & Styling: John Revisky

42 OFFERING HELP & GIVING HOPE

69 MULTIGENERATIONAL FAMILY BUSINESSES

Improving Lives Through Education

By Sue Engelhart

48 INSPIRED LIVING Building A New Standard In Senior Communities

By Sue Cullen

55 STRAIGHT SHOOTERS Downtown Sarasota’s The Bullet Hole

By Sue Cullen

Secrets To Success

By Sue Engelhart

72 USFSM & THE RESORT AT LONGBOAT KEY CLUB Partnership Gives Hospitality Students Real-World Skills

80 BLYTHE DANNER A Kind Act

By Gus Mollasis

82 FULL STEAM AHEAD AT SAINT STEPHEN’S

cover

Validus Senior Living CEO Steve Benjamin stands in front of the new Inspired Living by Validus 14-acre campus in Lakewood Ranch scheduled to open this summer. Photo by Nancy Guth.

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You’ve always chosen the very best…

For your family. For your lifestyle.

Choose the best for your body with the finest in fitness and elite personal training.

Never settle for anything less.

Exclusive membership and personal training opportunities now available.

Studio South Fitness.

Made Personal.

Made For You. Made For Those Who Want More.

55 S. Palm Ave. • Sarasota, FL 34236 • 941-365-4584 • StudioSouthFitness.com

DEPARTMENTS

40

SOCIALS 20 JFCS Celebrity Chefs Food & Wine Tasting 25 SunCoast Blood Bank Red Hot Casino Night 26 CPC Blue Ties & Butterflies Gala 28 La Musica Musical Chefs Interactive Dinner 30 Florida Winefest & Auction Banquet on the Block 36 Pines of Sarasota Giving Tree Society Celebration 47 Van Wezel Foundation Gala 68 • Forty Carrots Family Center’s Firefly Gala • JHCF’s Eight Over 80 Brunch 92 Historic Spanish Point’s Annual Luncheon

22 EVENTS CALENDAR 29 PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR 34 CULTURE MATTERS Presented by The Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

75

40 GIVING Embracing the Future Tom & Sherry Koski

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

75 SCENES FROM AN INTERVIEW Graci McGillicuddy – A Voice for Children

By Gus Mollasis

84 EDUCATION MATTERS Sarasota Film Festival’s Film Academy

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

86 BEHIND THE SCENE Sarasota’s Society Maven Gives the Latest Scoop

By Debbi Benedict

94 LITERARY SCENE

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

97 HEALTH MATTERS Smiling Leads to Better Health

By Dr. Christine Koval, DMD

98 SCENE LOCALLY News Shaping Our Community 12

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GIVE INSPIRATION WITH THE

BOUQUET OF LOVE GIFT SET*

Some jewelry displayed patented (US Pat. No. 7,007,507) • © Pandora • PANDORA.NET

*Starting April 9, while supplies last — purchase PANDORA’s “bouquet of love” gift set for $195.

See store for details.

THIS ISN’T JUST A MOTHER’S DAY GIFT it’s a moment forged in gold. a thousand late nights strung on a silver chain. an inside joke twinkling back at her. and who knows what it’ll be tomorrow. share the #artofyou and explore at pandora.net shown: .925 sterling silver rings with14k eternity detail and hand-set pavé.

available at

mall at university town center center court

Locally Owned, Operated & Printed Since 1957 CEO/President

Ronald Milton

Publisher & Executive Editor

Julie A. Milton

Editor

Sue Engelhart

Account Executive

Kathy Herbst

Art Director Special Issue Coordinator Distribution Contributing Writers

Michelle Cross Debbi Benedict Dick Jackson Debbi Benedict Sue Cullen

Indulge in a delightful assortment of treats from our award-winning pastry chefs. From fresh muffins and brownies to elegant pies and cakes, Morton’s offers local and seasonal favorites that taste as wonderful as they look.

Gus Mollasis Steven J. Smith Ryan G. Van Cleave Photographers

Nancy Guth Daniel Perales John Revisky

Address

5939 Approach Road, Sarasota, FL 34238

Phone Fax Website

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

941-365-1119 941-954-5067 www.scenesarasota.com

SCENE Magazine publishes 12 issues a year by RJM Ventures, LLC. Address editorial, advertising and circulation correspondence to the above address. Sufficient return postage and self-addressed, stamped envelope must accompany all manuscripts, art work and photographs submitted if they are to be returned or acknowledged.

Publisher assumes no responsibility for care of return of unsolicited materials. Subscription price: $12.95 per year, $19.95 for two years. All contents copyrighted.

Reproduction without permission is prohibited. ISSN 1535-8895.

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Luxury Retirement Living On The Bay! Overlooking the water, just minutes from all the shopping, dining, theatre, and the arts that make downtown so special, Sarasota Bay Club offers outstanding services and amenities that are personalized to fit your lifestyle. From complimentary valet parking to fine dining, the freedom to design the ideal retirement lifestyle is all yours. Sarasota Bay Club ownership is carefree, with all maintenance included, and complete health care and rehabilitation services conveniently located on-site.

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Discover The Bay Club Difference For Yourself – Full-Service Retirement In The Heart of Sarasota!

Schedule A Bay Club Tour Today!

Call Linda Ware or Dana Moe at (941) 552-3284

Let Us Show You Just How Much Value Sarasota Bay Club Has To Offer.

1301 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34236

(941) 366-7667 Visit Us On The Web At

www.SarasotaBayClub.com

FROM THE EXECUTIVE EDITOR

W

ith this my ninth year living in Sarasota, it seems that each year more and more people

are here during the summer. I know tourism is continually rising, and I also know that with our growing population, more people are staying here year-round. This should be good news for area businesses that in the past have experienced a summer drop in sales. Some shop owners have already

Michelle Crabtree

shared with me that April was booming after Easter unlike past seasons – hopefully it is a

Broker Associate, Realtor® CLHMS, CRS, CIPS, GRI, PMN, ABR, SRES, TRC, RSPS, AHWD, SFR, GREEN A third generation local and Broker Sales Associate since 1982, Michelle is dedicated to serving your needs in Sarasota, Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch.

sign that May will be strong as well.

I for one will be here most of the summer but if you want to know where some of Sarasota’s “in” people are going, be sure to read SCENE social maven Debbi Benedict’s column, “Behind the SCENE”. The wildly popular Debbi gets them to share their plans with us, which include stops at some unique places around the globe.

For families who are in business together, we have lots of good advice from local

• 2014 Five-Star Real Estate Agent “Best in Client Satisfaction” – 7 years

experts on how to make it all work, and for those who know that education is key to most

• Women’s Council of Realtors 2013 “Entrepreneur of the Year” & 2009 “Business Woman of the Year”

support of education.

• 2013 & 2007 SAR “Meritorious Service Award”

Benjamin tells us about this amenity- and activity-rich residence with a strong emphasis

• 2013 Florida Realtor Honor Society – 7 years • 2010 Director, Sarasota Association of Realtors (SAR) - 3 year term • 2008 WCR Sarasota Chapter President • 2005 WCR Sarasota “Realtor of the Year”

everything in life, be inspired by what some local families and foundations are doing in Speaking of inspired, please read our cover story on Inspired Living by Validus, the newest senior living and memory care facility to come to town. Founder and CEO Steve on personalization.

Now I know we have a lot of bright teens in our community, but did you know that we have a high school student who scored the highest grade IN THE WORLD on two advanced program tests offered by Cambridge International Advanced Level Programs?

Turn to our feature on Teen Wonders in this issue to read about the young lady from Sarasota High who accomplished this – Sydney Askins – along with several other teens also with outstanding accomplishments. With all the bad in the world, relish the good and feel proud when you read about these young ladies.

Graci McGillicuddy. Many in our town know her name, but if you don’t, you should

c 941.724.4663 michelle.crabtree@sothebysrealty.com www.crabtreehomes.com Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission.

Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate and neither suggests nor infers that Sotheby’s International Realty participated as either the listing or cooperating agent or broker in the sale or purchase of the properties depicted.

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know she is “the” voice for children who suffer trauma and abuse. And as we celebrate Mother’s Day this month, Graci is truly a mother to the many children who have been helped by the advocacy and support of this wonder woman and the organization she helped build, the Child Protection Center. Gus Mollasis sits down with Graci in an interview you won’t want to miss.

It’s May. Flowers are blooming. Kids are graduating. Vacations are being planned. Love it. Embrace it. Enjoy it.

scenesarasota.com

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

Showroom: 7080 28th St. Court East Sarasota, Florida 34243/ Off Whitfield Ave 941.739.7823 StabilConcretePavers.com

EVERYTHING HOME 2 015 marks Robb & Stucky’s one hundredth anniversary. Why such staying power? Robb & Stucky has earned the distinction as the premier destination for top tier home furnishings and the home of the best and brightest interior designers. Our showrooms are designed to ignite your imagination with fresh colors, styles and name brands. And, with the help of our complimentary interior design services, you can explore all the ingredients, (floor coverings, window treatments, lighting, custom cabinetry, and much more), for re-imagining your home. Discover Robb & Stucky – your destination for everything home, now, for one hundred years.

www. Robb Stucky.com FORT MYERS | NAPLES | SARASOTA – SARASOTA SHOWROOM: 7557 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 phone: 941.702.8400

Social JFCS Celebrity Chefs Food & Wine Tasting Local chefs supplied their signature dishes and guests also got to sample some great wines at the Jewish Family and Children’s Service Celebrity Chefs event. Reggae music by Natural Vibes/ The Ciceron Brothers set the appropriate tropical atmosphere for a beautiful night in paradise. Mike and Ruth Harshman

Your Center for Self Defense & Family Protection

and Joe and Barbara Najmy chaired the event.

Photos by Nancy Guth

Ben & Stacy Hanan, Teri Hansen & Steve Wilberding

Top Quality Firearms Firearms Training

Bill Wudte, Chris Welter, Doug Grice & Dan Bonora

Jerry & Andrea Dovner

Self Defense Classes Florida Concealed Weapons CertiďŹ cation NRA Courses

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Peter & Tiffany Liashek

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Michael Harshman, Joe & Barbara Najmy & Ruth Harshman scenesarasota.com

calendar

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

Photo by John Revisky

Coexistence Inc.’s Embracing Our Differences Through May 31 Island Park and Bradenton Riverwalk. International outdoor art exhibit intended to demonstrate in a positive way that diversity enriches our lives. Free and open to the public.

941.404.5710 | embracingourdifferences.org SMHF’s Physicians Golf Tournament May 1 Laurel Oak Country Club, 9 am. Benefits the Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s Physicians Endowment for Sarasota Memorial staff education. 941.917.1286 | smh.com Humane Society’s Paws on the Catwalk May 1 Ritz-Carlton, 10:30 am. White. Hot. Sexy. Start with signature cocktails and shopping.

Wrap up with lunch and fashion show. Les McCurdy and Ken Sons will host. Tickets: $125 | 941.955.4131 | hssc.org Ear Research Foundation’s Kentucky Derby Fundraiser May 2 Michael’s On East, 5:30 pm. Enjoy the race followed by dinner and gaming. Benefits the Ear Research Foundation. 941.365.0367 | earsinus.com Classic Corvettes on the Circle May 2 St. Armand’s Circle Park, 10 am. More than 200 original classic Corvettes, dating from 1953 to the present, will be on display in the Circle. Open to the public. starmandscircleassoc.com 4th Annual Food and Wine on Pine Event May 2 Pine Avenue on Anna Maria, 11:30 am. Featuring 25 locally-owned restaurants, art, live music, fine wines and craft beers. 941.778.8705 | foodandwineonpine.com

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YMCA Foundation’s Going for the Gold May 2 Dolphin Aviation, 5 pm. Dinner, the race, auctions, and late night tomfoolery. Tickets: $250 | 941.951.1336 ext. 6 | thesarasotay.org SMART’s Kentucky Derby Day May 2 SMART Stables, 5 pm. Watch the Run for the Roses, enjoy dinner, a live auction, ladies best hat contest, and music. Benefits Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy. Tickets: $75 |

Denise Mei REALTOR

®

941.322.2000 | smartriders.org Asolo Rep’s Men Who Cook May 3 Mattison’s Bayside at the Van Wezel, 6 pm. Sarasota/Bradenton’s most well-respected will prepare a dinner filled with their favorite dishes. Tickets: $200 | 941.351.9010 ext. 4702 | asolorep.org Friendship Centers’ Treasures, Trinkets & Tea May 7 Chelsea Center, 2:30 pm. An elegant afternoon of tea, fun and friendship includes champagne, caviar, sweet and savory treats, accessory fashion show, silent auction and accessories marketplace. Proceeds benefit the Caregiving Centers at the Friendship Centers. Tickets: $75 | 941.556.3205 | friendshipcenters.org 7th Annual Payton Wright Foundation Golf Tournament May 8 Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club, 11 am. Dinner, live music and silent auction. Benefits the Payton Wright Foundation. Tickets: $50-$200 | 941.228.4886 | paytonwright.org

Ultimate Customer Service Dreaming of refined and luxurious living in Prestancia?

Call me to see this custom 4BR pool home on the golf course in beautiful and sought after Prestancia Golf and Country Club. $899,000.

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Designing Daughters’ Fashionable Gala: Mystery Men and Bond Girls May 8 Sarasota Classic Car Museum, 8 pm. A mysterious night filled with old-school glamour. Hors d’oeuvres, casino games, and live entertainment. Benefits Designing Daughters’ grant program for local nonprofits. Tickets: $95 - $250 | 941.404.9396 | designingdaughterssarasota.com 12th Annual Downtown Sarasota Craft Fair May 9 – 10 Downtown Sarasota, 10 am. Featuring more than 100 artisans and crafters. Open to the public. artfestival.com Selby Gardens’ Mother’s Day Brunch May 10 Selby Gardens. Four seatings: 9:30 am, 11 am, 12:30 pm and 2 pm. Mother’s Day brunch catered by Michael’s On East.

Includes final concert performance for 2015. Tickets: $25-$50 | 941.366.5731 | selby.org 10th Annual Dick Vitale Gala May 15 Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, 7 pm. Sarasota’s Dick Vitale hosts his annual gala to raise funds for pediatric cancer research

941.685.3198

2014 Master’s Award Recipient

through The V Foundation for Cancer Research. Tickets: $1,000 | 941.350.0580 or 941.374.6026 | jimmyv.org scenesarasota.com

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AJC’s Summer Lunch & Learn May 28 Michael’s On East, 11:30 am. American Jewish Committee presents AJC's Director of the Asia Pacific Institute to discuss Why is Asia the New Frontier for Israel? Shira Loewenberg will explain Israel's increasing pivot towards Asia as it looks to expand economic and political ties. Tickets: $28 | 941.365.4955 | ajc.org JFCS’ A Tribute to Veterans May 29 Michael’s On East, 12 pm. Honoring individuals in our community who inspire patriotism, provide service to others, and offer hope to veterans. 941.366.2224 | jfcs-cares.org 6th Annual SCLO Git It in Your Soul Dance Party May 30 Laurel Oaks Country Club, 7 pm. Dance the night away to celebrate Second Chance Last Opportunity’s 20th anniversary. Proceeds support SCLO’s basic life skills training, peer counseling, giving respect and a voice to the voiceless, and

Just traded in your car and felt like you gave it away?

BEFORE YOU DRIVE INTO THE DEALER TO TRADE IN YOUR CAR, CALL THE EXPERTS AT MR. MOBILE QUOTE AND LEARN WHAT YOUR CAR

shining a light on the overlooked. Tickets: $20 | 941.360.8660 | secondchancelastopportunity.org Sarasota Music Festival May 31 – June 21. An intense three weeks of chamber music, master classes, and concerts. Locations and times are online.

941.953.3434 | sarasotaorchestra.org/festival Upcoming Events Savor Sarasota June 1 – 14. Sarasota celebrates the highest concentration of Zagat-rated restaurants in Florida with two weeks of three course feasts from participating restaurants. $15 for lunch; $29 for dinner. For a list of restaurants, visit savorsarasota.com CEO Forum’s Shark Tank

IS REALLY WORTH. Our highly

June 10 Mote Marine Aquarium, 5:30 pm. Kevin Harrington,

experienced experts come to

keynote speaker for the CEO Forum event in partnership with

your home or office. It’s quick & easy and best of all, there’s no cost or obligation.

the original “shark” on ABC’s hit show Shark Tank will be the B.I.G. Bright Ideas on the Gulf Coast. A panel discussion will follow. Tickets: $80 | 941.539.0500 | gulfcoastceoforum.com Skyway Film Festival June 12 – 14 Manatee Performing Arts Center. Includes industry Q&A panels and workshops. skywayfilmfestival.org

Don’t leave money on the table.

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The Ringling’s Summer Circus Spectacular June 16 – August 2. Annual Summer Circus Spectacular. Presented in collaboration with The Circus Arts Conservatory of Sarasota, this on-stage exhibition of circus artistry provides delightful summer entertainment for children of all ages. 941.359.5700 | ringling.org 23nd Annual Downtown Venice Craft Festival June 20 – 21 Miami Avenue Downtown Venice, 10 am. Outdoor-juried craft show featuring a vast array of craft media. Open to the public. artfestival.com

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Social SunCoast Blood Bank Red Hot Casino Night It was Vegas-style fun all night long at SunCoast Blood Bank’s Red Hot Casino Night. Guests enjoyed food, fun, and gaming. While some were lucky, everyone was a winner since proceeds

benefitted

SCBB’s

vital

community services. Kelly Marsh chaired the event.

Photos by John Revisky Jason & Whitney Carney with Scott Bush

Carter & Ann Castilow

Robert Kohnen, Dr. Sheri Weinstein & Jayne Giroux

Daryl Shepard, Kelly Marsh, Sara Bagley, Donna Jungman & Krista Bloomberg

t n u a l F our

e l k r Spa Y

MK Designs, Unique, Stunning and One of a Kind • MK Designs and The Golden Image Jewelry Store 30 South Palm Ave., Downtown Sarasota | 941.364.8439 | www.mymkdesigns.com scenesarasota.com

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Social Child Protection Center’s Blue Ties & Butterflies Gala In shades ranging from azure to ultramarine, supporters turned out to celebrate Child Protection Center’s 35 years of preventing and treating child abuse at the Blue Ties and Butterflies Gala. Guests enjoyed music from local school groups and ended an inspiring evening with the strains of CPC’s signature closer, High Hopes.

Photos by Nancy Guth

Jill & Scott Levine

Graci McGillicuddy, Skip & Gail Sack

Donna Koffman, Staci Baer & Tammy Karp

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Front left to right: Paula Ippolito, Peg Roberts, Karen Weber, Rosemarie McKee & Staci Baer Back left to right: Jill McMullen, Graci McGillicuddy, Donna Koffman, Terry Millet, Alisa Pettingell & Karen Valentino

Dianne Hayden, Karen Valentino & Tom Hayden

Natalie Tanner, Peter & Tricia Laughlin

Flora Major, Barbara & Drew Cervasio

Elisa & Michael Graber scenesarasota.com

The Bellwether Group Founding Partners—Aimee Cogan CFP® CIMA,® Managing Director—Wealth Management, Family Wealth Director, Wealth Advisor Scott L. Rockwell, Vice President, Financial Advisor Richard T. Williams III CFA,® Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor

You know how to make money. We know how to help you keep it.

With wealth comes great responsibility. Every dollar should be cared for, nurtured and preserved. In other words, your wealth must be managed.

As Financial Advisors, the partners of the Bellwether Group have the experience and resources to assist in managing the The Bellwether Group at Morgan Stanley Two North Tamiami Trail, Suite 1100 Sarasota, FL 34236 941-363-8514 www.morganstanleyfa.com/ bellwethergroup/ rochelle.nigri@morganstanley.com

many facets of your financial world—from investments and risk management to estate planning. By working together, we can create a detailed wealth plan to help protect and grow your wealth.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP,® CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

Investment Management Consultants Association, Inc. owns the marks CIMA,® Certified Investment Management AnalystSM (with graph element),® and Certified Investment Management Analyst.SM Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Clients should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters. © 2015 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

CRC1108385 02/15 CS 8148317 MAR009 09/12

Social La Musica Musical Chefs Interactive Dinner Guests cooked, laughed, and feasted at La Musica’s Musical Chefs interactive dinner. Musicians Dmitri Atapine, cello, and Daniel Avshalomov, viola, along with Michael’s On East chef Jamil Pineda made cooking as a spectator sport a fun time for all. Janet Hunter chaired this year’s sold out event.

Photos by Nancy Guth

Betty Schoenbaum & Renee Hamad

Janet Hunter & Gloria Moss

Donna & John Moffitt

John & Ellen Cavanaugh

Jerry Bilik

Family owned and operated since 1978, Roessler’s Restaurant is one of the most romantic restaurants on the west coast of Florida. This hidden gem features an award-winning* wine list, traditional continental cuisine crafted with the highest quality ingredients, and an unforgettable dining experience of impeccable service. Beautifully situated on a lake overlooking manicured gardens, a bridge and a gazebo, Roessler’s is an experience not to be missed. *Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence

2033 Vamo Way, Sarasota, FL 34238 | 941-966-5688 | RoesslersRestaurant.com

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PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR

Asolo Repertory Theatre 941.351.8000 / asolorep.org

Luck Be a Lady: The Iconic Music of Frank Loessler Through May 24 New musical features some of Broadway’s finest, singing and dancing their way through the songbook of this incomparable composer.

Woody Sez: The Life And Music Of Woody Guthrie May 29 – June 21 Four actor-musicians perform 25 of Woody Guthrie’s songs and celebrate the colorful life and rich musical legacy of this American icon.

Florida Studio Theatre 941.366.9000 / floridastudiotheatre.org

Chapatti Through May 30 Romance is a distant memory for two lonely animal-lovers living in Dublin.

Never Marry a Girl with Cold Feet Through June 7 Celebrate the greatest musical artists of vaudeville.

Lemon Bay Playhouse 941.475.6756 / lemonbayplayhouse.com

Oh, Mama! No, Papa! – A Comedy Through May 17 Eleanor (a widow) and Silas (a widower) are both, if you take their word for it, near death. Their children accompany them to see Dr. Bolt. Eleanor and Silas are romantically attracted. Low and behold! The aches and pains disappear.

Manatee Players 941.748.5875 / manateeplayers.com

Spamalot Through May 17 Lovingly ripped off from the classic film comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Spamalot retells the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table.

scenesarasota.com

The Players Theatre 941.365.2494 / theplayers.org

Theatre at the FSU/Asolo Center for the Performing Arts.

You Should Be So Lucky

Urbanite Theatre

Through May 3 A delightful Cinderella story reminiscent of the classic screwball comedies of the 1930s.

941.321.1397 / urbanitetheatre.com

Thoroughly Modern Millie, Jr. May 16 & 17 A young Millie Dillmount moves to the big city to find a new life for herself.

The Ringling 941.359.5700 / theringling.org

Trumpet Invasion May 2 – 3 Music runs the gamut from “Variations on Chopsticks” to the familiar classics.

A Romp with Gilbert & Sullivan May 9 – 10 Soloists and professional choral ensemble perform highlights from three of Gilbert & Sullivan’s most popular shows.

Adrienne Danrich & Djordge Nesic May 30 – 31 Vocalist and piano.

Sarasota Ballet 941.359.0099 / sarasotaballet.org

The Ballets Russes May 1 – 2 Sarasota Opera House A special tribute to Sergei Diaghilev and The Ballets Russes presenting Fokine’s Les Sylphides and Petrushka, along with Nijinsky’s Afternoon of a Faun, presented with live music by the Sarasota Orchestra.

Sarasota Orchestra 941.953.3434 / sarasotaorchestra.org

Orchestra in the Outfield May 9 Syesha Mercado performs with the Orchestra in an Outdoor Pops concert at the Orioles’ Ed Smith Stadium.

Theatre Odyssey 941.799.7224 | theatreodyssey.org Through May 3 See nine 10-minute plays including the 2015 student winner at the Jane B. Cook

Chicken Shop Through May 3 Hendrix is growing up. He meets Luminita – a young girl enslaved into an unbearable life. Their secret friendship grows in stolen moments in a sordid room above a fried chicken shop.

Venice Theatre 941.488.1115 / venicestage.com

The Miracle Worker May 5 – 24 Based on the true story of a young deaf and blind girl, Helen Keller, and her dedicated teacher Annie Sullivan.

Children’s Letters to God May 14 – 24 Musical follows five young friends as they voice beliefs, desires, questions, and doubts common to all people.

Lotela Gold May 30 Music from the ‘50s and ‘60s.

Venice Performing Arts Center 941.480.3191 artscenter.com

/

veniceperforming-

Venice Symphony: “Amo Venezia” – I Love Venice May 1 – 2 Commemorate the VPAC’s opening year with popular music, including the theme from The Godfather, O Sole Mio, Finiculi Finicula, and Come Back to Sorrento.

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe 941.366.1505 / wbttsrq.com

Spunk Through May 17 Three tales of love, revenge, and redemption from the Harlem Renaissance. They are “tales of survival told in the key of the blues” with a common theme of hope for the future.

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Social Florida Winefest & Auction Banquet on the Block Florida Winefest & Auction gave a whole new meaning to block party with its sold out Banquet on the Block. Partiers dined at Sarasota’s longest table, which added an elegant touch to Lemon Avenue downtown with white tablecloths and sparkling glassware. There was dancing in the street to close out the evening.

Photos by Nancy Guth

Patricia Osrostky, Sandra Scott & Kathy Rustin

Larry Greenspan & Mary Gratehouse

Michael Scialdone & Terry McKee

Steven & Terry Stottlemeyer with David & Stephanie Glosser

Paul Mattison, Ray Lajoie, Christian Herschman, Nils Terantik & Massimiliano Mizzo

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P L A C E

Erik Hanson, Philip Hammersley, Derrick Maginness, and Darren Inverso of Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos, P.A.

Photo by Enrique Pino

Independent Contractor Vs. Employee

By Sue Engelhart

Complex Issue Can Prove Costly to Businesses One of the single largest items on the expense side of the ledger for most business owners is the cost associated with its workforce. Wages are just a portion of that cost. An employer’s share of Social Security taxes, Workers’ Compensation payments, state and federal unemployment expenses, and benefits can add up to a considerable sum. A common way of managing those expenses is through the use of independent contractors. While that can be a viable option in some cases, if done incorrectly, it can be very costly, more than outweighing the potential savings, according to attorneys at Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos, a Sarasota law firm concentrating in business, tax, real estate, trial practice and dispute resolution.

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“Many business owners create a business plan think-

Unfortunately, the line between an independent con-

ing they will save money by hiring independent contrac-

tractor and an employee is more shades of gray than

tors because they can pay maybe $25 an hour and don’t

black and white, and the consequences can be very

have to pay certain taxes and insurance or benefits,”

costly. “There is no bright line test for this issue, so indi-

said attorney Philip Hammersley, a Norton Hammersley

vidual cases come down to factual questions that need

shareholder, “but at the end of the day, if they are forced

to be answered by a judge and jury,” said Darren Inver-

to change their business plan mid-stream, it can mean

so, Norton Hammersley shareholder. “It’s a long drawn

significantly higher labor costs than they anticipated

out process and often very expensive.” If the individual

and their entire budget could be blown.”

is ultimately determined to be an employee, in addition

May 2015

scenesarasota.com

to any back taxes, wages and benefits owed, fines and

plus attorney fees,” Hanson added, “and the business

penalties also can carry a hefty price tag.

may be flagged for IRS and Workers’ Comp audits.”

While the issue of independent contractor versus em-

Choosing to take one’s chances is, of course, an op-

ployee is complex, a review of case law has provided

tion, but it pays to know what could go wrong in that

a number of factors to indicate whether a worker is an

scenario. “I know of situations where a person has been

employee or independent contractor. These include how

hired part time as an “Independent Contractor”, but

much control the company has over the work, whether the

with set hours a certain number of days each week, re-

work is done with or without direct supervision, the skill

quired to be present at the office for those hours, for

required, whose “tools” the employed individual uses, em-

the same pay each week, and utilizing the company’s

ployment duration, payment by time or by the job, wheth-

equipment to complete the job. Even though there may

er or not the person being employed is engaged in a dis-

be a signed independent contractor agreement, that in-

tinct business, if the work is part of the employer’s regular

dividual still might be considered an employee because

business, whether the parties believe they are creating a

the employer has all of the control,” said Derrick Mag-

supervisor/subordinate relationship, and if the person may

inness, Norton Hammersley associate. “Consider the

do work for other companies. Having a written agreement

possibility of a workplace injury, or an IRS audit of the

also is important, although not conclusive, in determining

company, if that happens, and the individual hasn’t paid

whether someone is an employee or not.

for Workers’ Comp insurance or the employer’s share of

Hammersley gives the example of an excavation com-

taxes, and the auditors determine that the individual is

pany that hires an individual to stake off a work site prior

actually an employee, the business could be liable for

to digging. “If the person is just setting stakes and doesn’t

back taxes, payments and penalties. It could even open

do the actual digging, then that person is most likely to

the employer up to a claim by the “employee” for any

be considered an independent contractor,” he said. “The

benefits they did not receive as well.”

company is just going to call and send them out to do

Other circumstances that could trigger an issue include

that specialized work.” Inverso provides a scenario with

if the person gets injured on the job and files a Workers’

a potentially different outcome. “If a tradesperson like a

Compensation claim, if they are driving their personal

carpenter, plumber or electrician has someone help ev-

vehicle on company business and are involved in an ac-

ery day, and picks that person up at 8 a.m. and drops

cident resulting in a lawsuit, and if their employment is

them off after work with the expectation that they will do

terminated and they file an unemployment compensation

that a certain number of days a week, then that individual

claim. So, what can a business do to ensure it stays out

may be considered to be an employee,” he said.

of trouble? Getting professional advice ahead of time can

To add to the complexity, there are industry specific

help. “In many cases, client’s find out too late that they

exceptions in areas like construction and in restaurants

could have avoided unnecessary costs and litigation, if

and hospitality businesses. “It is a convoluted and of-

they had discussed these issues with an attorney to assist

ten overlooked issue for businesses,” said Erik Hanson,

them in having all the knowledge to make the correct

Norton Hammersley associate. “Many business owners

business decision. It is usually more cost effective to get

don’t realize how big an issue it is until there’s a prob-

legal and professional advice on the front end, than it is to

lem. Even in an area where common sense would indi-

seek that advice after a problem arises.” Maginness said.

cate the person is an independent contractor, it may not

There are steps that employers can take which will help

necessarily be so. Most often, if there is a problem, the

them identify whether they actually have an Independent

litmus test for whether the person is an employee or an

Contractor or an employee, and lawyers can provide

independent contractor is control of the means and the

insights that employers might not otherwise consider.”

outcome. If the employer controls the means, which is

Consulting with accountants and human resource profes-

how the job is performed, the person is probably an em-

sionals also helps navigate this complex issue.

ployee. If they only care that the job is completed, then the person is likely an independent contractor.”

“It pays to review independent contractors’ status regularly because circumstances can change over

Despite what is considered common wisdom, just be-

time,” Hammersley said. “Having an experienced team

cause an individual is paid commission only does not

of attorneys help you get solid agreements in place can

mean they can’t be determined to be an employee. If

avoid problems. It also pays to remember the first rule,

a person is determined to be an employee, Fair Labor

which is that anyone can sue anybody for anything at

Standards Act requirements also come into play, trig-

any time. The best defense is determining whether your

gering minimum wage, maximum hours, and overtime

people are employees or independent contractors be-

issues. “The statutory remedies for unpaid minimum

fore a claim occurs, and having proper documentation

wages and overtime can be double the amount owed

to back it up.”

Connect: Trial Practice and Dispute Resolution Group — Erik Hanson, Philip Hammersley, Derrick Maginness, Darren Inverso

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

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ARTS & CULTURE

PRESENTED BY:

A Romp with Gilbert and Sullivan Artist Series Concerts May 9 – 10

A Romp with Gilbert and Sullivan will feature highlights from Pirates of Penzance, The Mikado and H.M.S. Pinafore performed in the beautiful Historic Asolo Theater. In the 1870s, English playwright William S. Gilbert and composer Arthur Sullivan revolutionized musical theater, creating a series of witty, melodic operettas that set a new standard for stage professionalism. Sullivan's music sparkled with fresh melody, and Gilbert's librettos blended silliness and satire in settings that ranged from pure fantasy to the utterly realistic. Publicized as "light operas", they were by any name, musicals – some of the finest the world would ever see in any language. Learn more at artistseriesconcerts.org.

Oh, Mama! No, Papa!

Lemon Bay Playhouse Through May 17

A very successful season for the Lemon Bay Playhouse is continuing with its production Oh, Mama! No, Papa! by Reginald Denham. This charming comedy, directed by Rita Corn, tells a story about Eleanor (a widow) and Silas (a widower) who are both chronic complainers about their health. When Louisa (Eleanor's daughter) and James (Silas' son), tire of their parents perpetual grumbling and accompany them to see Dr. Bolt–hoping to get a firsthand report on just what is wrong– all four meet and immediately strike up friendships. In fact, Eleanor and Silas are smitten with a romantic passion. When these two get together to celebrate, the fun begins. More information is online at lemonbayplayhouse.com.

Spamalot

Manatee Players Through May 17 One of the greatest Broadway musicals of the modern age, the Tony® Award Winning Best Musical, Spamalot, lovingly ripped off from the classic film comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail, is running at the Manatee Performing Arts Center. Spamalot retells the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table and features a bevy of beautiful showgirls, not to mention cows, killer rabbits, and French people. Did we mention the bevy of beautiful showgirls? For specific dates and times, visit manateeperformingartscenter.com

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Confluence: France, Collective Paper Aesthetics, and MASHterpieces

South Sarasota County School Venice Art Center Through May 22

Art Center Sarasota May 21–June 26 Art Center Sarasota is producing three exhibits. Confluence: France is being produced in collaboration with Sister Cities Association of Sarasota and Alliance Française de Sarasota to create a cultural bond through the visual arts. It features emerging artists from the area of Sarasota’s sister city, Perpignan, France. Collective Paper Aesthetics is a community project designed by Netherlands-based artist Noa Haim. This project will result in a free form, gallery-filling installation created from three dimensional paper forms. Community members can come in to the Art Center throughout the exhibition time to decorate and construct the pieces. MASHterpieces consists of 30 artists re-purposing artwork donated to Goodwill Manasota to give the work a new life. More information is available at artsarasota.org

The South Sarasota County School is an all media show featuring the energetic artwork of talented students of all ages from more than 19 different South Sarasota schools. The exhibit opening for elementary schools is May 13 from 5 to 7 p.m., and the middle and high school opening reception is May 14 from 5 to 7 p.m.

It is free and open to the public. This show is sponsored by the Edmund and Elizabeth M. Campbell Foundation and Sarasota County Schools. It is on display at the Venice Art Center. For more information, visit veniceartcenter.com.

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A mile north of Bee Ridge Road on Tuttle Avenue on the big circle

On Venice Avenue & Pinebrook Road in the Publix shopping center

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Social Pines of Sarasota Giving Tree Society Celebration Pines of Sarasota Foundation thanked its Giving Tree Society donors with a special celebration at The Francis. In just its second year, Giving Tree Society donors more than doubled their level of support for the Foundation’s work on behalf of Pines of Sarasota. Photos by Cliff Roles

Karen & Willard Saperston with Marilyn Shuman

Mark Schlanger, Estelle Crawford & Peter Abbott

Ron A. Royal & Jim Rutledge

Wells & Marsha Purmort, Eddie Morton & David Sylvester

3 Amazing Waterfront Dining Experiences

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May 2015

Upscale Dining with an Unparalleled Gulf View Fresh Sushi, Steak & Chops Handcrafted Cocktails Private Dining Room Available 1600 Harbor Drive S., Venice 941.999.FINS • FinsAtSharkys.com

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6:30pm | THE RITZ-CARLTON | SARASOTA, FL Sponsorship Opportunities Available MAKE RESERVATIONS EARLY – MARY KENEALY EVENTS 941-350-0580 For more information, visit dickvitalegala.org or dickvitaleonline.com

Be moved, inspired and entertained at one of Sarasota’s signature events...

Join scores of sports and entertainment industry celebrities to raise funds for pediatric cancer research. Enjoy an evening of: || Cocktails, Dinner, 10th Anniversary Grand Finale, and

After Party featuring mega hit band Blood, Sweat & Tears || Stroll the silent auction with one-of-a-kind sports memorabilia and exclusive travel packages. It’s going to be an Awesome night!

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Enter to win online at: jimmyv.org/vitaleraffle2015

After Party

Can’t-miss performance by Blood Sweat & Tears, featuring Bo Bice.

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Big City Spirit with a

Small Town Touch

Rugs As Art

I

By Sue Cullen | Photo by John Revisky

n keeping with Sarasota’s reputation as a small town with big city amenities,

the Murse family has built Rugs As Art into a nationally acclaimed rug and furnishings store with “big city” spirit. As the name implies, John Murse (right), who founded the store with his wife Lucy, says they really do consider rugs to be an art form. “We have thousands of rugs from all areas of the world and work with producers from more than 35 countries,” Murse says. “We’ve created an unmatched selection of machine-made, hand tufted, and hand knotted rugs at price points that are affordable to everyone!”

The Murses founded the Sarasota store in 1986 and grew from 800 square feet into an 18,000 square foot building on Tamiami Trail with more than 30 employees. In addition to the incredible selection of in-stock rugs, Rugs As Art also has a Design Center offering custom rugs. “We joke with people and say if we don’t make it or can’t get it, you don’t need it,” he says. “If you have a fabric or pillow and really want the idea put into a rug, we can do it. We’ve done everything from family crests to a rug from photos of the staff’s pets for a veterinary office.” Although rugs are a key part of the business, the store offers much more, including accent furniture, lighting, artwork, pillows, and accessories.

Rugs as Art is a true family business with two of the Murses’ sons working there. Jesse is the

has created a retail experience acknowledged within the industry as unique. It has been voted the Best Rug Store in America three times among many other national recognitions. The store also has earned local kudos, including being named Sarasota Chamber’s Franklin G. Berlin Small Business of the Year along with a host of “Best Of” and “Reader’s Choice” awards. Looking back at nearly 30 years in business here, Murse recalls researching much larger cities throughout the Southeast as possible store locations before choosing Sarasota. “We fell in love with this community. Our business takes us all over the world to some really great places,” he says. ”But every time we come home, we say we can’t

marketing whiz, and Matthew is the artisan who

believe how beautiful this community is!”

handles rug repair and restoration. The family

CONNECT: 6650 S. Tamiami Trail | 941-921-1900 | rugsasart.com

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Embracing the Future Tom & Sherry Koski

By Ryan G. Van Cleave | Photo by Nancy Guth The Koskis’s house overlooking part of the old Foxfire Golf Club grounds has a humorous welcome mat. Rather than seeing “Welcome” as you would in most homes, it simply says “Come Back with a Warrant.” Ironically this sets the right tone for a house that’s abundantly filled with warmth, charm, and love. “Every morning,” admits Sherry Koski, “he asks if I would marry him today.” That’s the type of person Tom Koski is — gracious, generous, and committed. Even as the Scene photographer poses the couple in various locations in their lush backyard, which includes many orchids nestled in trees, Sherry continues to scan the ground, wary of snakes. “I love snakes,” Tom confesses, “but not when they’re around her.”

Sure, he’s got a sense of humor, but when it comes to issues of education, Tom is deeply serious. “There is absolutely nothing wrong with the world right now that, if we fix education, won’t be repaired,” Tom explains. “When I’m talking about education, I’m not talking about one plus one equals two. I’m talking about critical thinking and being able to make your own decisions so that you can get into a conversation about politics or world events, have opinions, and be able to listen and understand the other side as well as present your own side.” He apologizes for using the well-worn phrase: “Let’s teach students to disagree without being disagreeable.”

In particular, Tom thinks middle school is crucial. He remembers exactly when his own education went south in seventh grade. Being a little smarter than most his age, he got lazy, and he wasn’t trying too hard. Add in a teacher he didn’t connect with, and he really tuned out. He skated through the rest of middle and high school with slightly higher than average grades. Fortunately, he got himself back on track in college, but a better middle school experience would have done wonders, so it’s no surprise that his education support is specifically targeted there. He’s supporting Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s STEMsmart initiative, which has turned math and science classrooms on their ears. In any Sarasota County middle school, thanks to the generosity of the Koskis and other Gulf Coast donors, instead of kids sitting in rows while listening to teachers lecture in front of the room, these students now collaborate in small groups around tables using computers and tablets to work on their technology-enhanced lessons.

Tom says, “The most amazing thing is that when you take a tour, the kids don’t even see you. They are so engaged that they really don’t notice, and if they do they are more likely to be annoyed. When I scenesarasota.com

was in junior high, sitting in our straight rows and listening to our teacher, if someone came into the room, we welcomed the distraction — every head turned and we were no longer paying attention to the lesson. This is a completely different paradigm.” To hear the passion in his voice when he speaks about this topic — education — you can see he means it all the way down to his DNA. “Everything affects everything,” he sagely explains. It’s all related.

While it might seem that the Koskis’s generous support of the Sarasota Museum of Modern Art is predicated in education, too, it’s also because Tom attended school there when he lived in Sarasota as a youth. He really wanted to see that building preserved, and he thought that the Sarasota High School alumni needed to have their name somewhere in the restored building. To that end, he made a sizable donation to kick things off, and then enlisted his wife to help him with “arm-twisting, cajoling, marketing, even making and selling t-shirts” to raise enough money to have the auditorium named for them. Thanks to the generosity of members of his class and others, the new museum will house the SHS Alumni Auditorium.

The Koskis go well beyond just supporting SMOA and STEMsmart classrooms. They are hosting the Artful Lobster fundraising event for The Hermitage Artist Retreat in November and Tom serves on the boards of the Education Foundation of Sarasota County and Sarasota Orchestra while Sherry serves on the board of The Pines of Sarasota. They are also active with the Ringling College Library Association. “He keeps telling me he’ll get the list to dwindle, but it hasn’t happened yet,” Sherry laughs.

A major partner in the Koskis’s philanthropy is Gulf Coast Community Foundation. “They’re great people, first and foremost,” she says.

“The best way to describe what they do comes from their motto ‘Together with our donors, we transform our region through bold and proactive philanthropy.’ It’s exactly what we want to do.” Tom adds that through his family foundation, he wants to support great things and help make a difference. It’s a lot like throwing a pebble into a pond and lettings the ripples gain strength as they move towards shore. “With Gulf Coast Community Foundation,” he explains, “those pebbles become rocks.” And thanks to the ongoing commitment of the Koskis and Gulf Coast, those ripples are felt in many ways throughout our community. To learn more about Gulf Coast Community Foundation initiatives and philanthropy efforts, visit GulfCoastCF.org or call 941.486.4600.

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Offering Help Giving Hope Local Families and Foundations Improve Lives Through Education

By Sue Engelhart

“He who opens a school door closes a prison”

W

– Victor Hugo

ith all due respect to Mr. Hugo, not every child who doesn’t finish school goes to prison. That’s true, but statistics published by the U.S. Bureau of Justice are chilling and so are the economic and personal impacts that result when a young person fails to

graduate from high school. For those who like to know their philanthropy has truly made a difference, investing in education not only helps individuals make a better life for themselves but also leaves a legacy that can last for generations. And there are philanthropists right here who are doing just that.

Starting life without a solid educational foundation has significant consequences. Workers with less than a high school education have median weekly salaries that are only 73 percent of those who graduated high school and only 43 percent of their college educated peers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Those who are unmoved by human struggle may be motivated by the fact that this represents $58 million in lost dollars entering the economy in Florida alone, according to the Alliance for Excellent Education. Statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Justice show that high school graduation rates for young males really does correlate with incarceration rates. According to those stats, 56 per-

cent of males in federal prison, 67 percent of state inmates, and 69 percent of those in local jails did not complete high school. Enough said.

Fortunately, in Sarasota and Manatee counties, there are families and foundations that understand and are willing to commit themselves and their resources, often in very personal, creative, and out-ofthe-box ways to give others the chance to live a life they may otherwise only have dreamed of. One couple whose efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of children and their parents alike is Joe and Mary Kay Henson. Their efforts have proven that tackling the root of the problem while being willing to look beyond conventional approaches to understand the bigger picture can deliver concrete results.

“By the time children who live in poverty are five years old, they are two to two and a half years behind their peers from affluent families. Children of poverty don’t check out of school in high school.

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Students of Alta Vista Eagle Academy courtesy of Alta Vista Elementary School

We lose them in the third grade. It’s vital to get them caught

“One thing that exemplifies how well parents have ac-

up. We were looking for ways to help and determined that we

cepted the Eagle Academy summer program and Parents Uni-

needed to do it through a school,” says Joe Henson. “At Alta

versity is that this past fall, 55 parents asked that the summer

Vista Elementary School, about 93 percent of the children

classes be continued into the fall. It shows that if you offer

live below the poverty line, and we felt we could establish

a helping hand, they take it,” says Mary Kay Henson. “Some

a program to have the kids go to school year round to give

families don’t speak English or dropped out of high school,

them the opportunity to catch up and grow. What we didn’t

and before they can take advantage of career programs they

know at the time was that over 50 percent of children here

have to speak English and have a high school degree.”

live below the poverty line. In the nation about 40 percent

The Hensons have been involved through Alta Vista

of children live below the poverty line, and that’s the human

Elementary for about four years and were joined 50/50 in

capital for our country. That really motivated us.”

their efforts several years ago by the Community Foundation

And that’s how the Alta Vista Eagle Academy got started,

of Sarasota County, Joe says. Since that time increasing em-

with funding from the Hensons to support teachers, transpor-

phasis has been placed on the two-generation approach to

tation and other requirements to allow children at Alta Vista

provide opportunities for children and their parents together.

to go to school in the summer in an effort to stay abreast of

As part of that effort, 11 mothers whose children attend Alta

their more affluent peers. This summer about 400 children

Vista graduated in December from a Certified Nursing Assis-

will attend the program. The Hensons also realized that it

tant training program. An outgrowth of the two-generation

wasn’t enough to help just the children.

effort has been the naming of the foundation as a member

“It’s a two generational problem,” Joe says. “The par-

of the Aspen Institute, which means funding for two-gener-

ents and families have all kinds of problems that also have to

ation approaches is available through the Institute’s Ascend

be addressed.” That led to another component of the initia-

Fund. John Annis, the foundation’s Senior Vice President of

tive, Parents University, which required parents of children

Community Involvement has been named an Ascend Fellow

in the Eagle Academy to attend classes once a week cover-

for his work with the two-generation approach. “I’ve been

ing topics like nutrition, budgeting, and child development.

inspired by Ascend’s vision of an America in which a legacy

And has it worked? When the program started, Alta Vista

of economic security and educational success passes from

students scored 49 percent on the FCAT, and this past year,

one generation to the next,” Annis says.

the school’s score was 73 percent, higher than even affluent schools in the county system. scenesarasota.com

Another local couple, Beverly Beall and her husband, Kemp Riechmann, have devoted themselves to helping indiMay 2015

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FOR

CHILDREN

JOIN THE CAMPAIGN AGAINST SUMMER HUNGER

Help feed children this summer.

Make a cash donation and empty your shelves. www.allfaithsfoodbank.org

8171 Blaikie Court Sarasota • 34240 • 941-379-6333 Please drop off nonperishable food donations at any Sarasota County Goodwill.

viduals attain college degrees. Through the Beverly Beall and

gone unnoticed. The couple recently received the Leadership

R. Kemp Riechmann Foundation, people have the chance to

Spirit Award at the Spirit of Manatee Awards after being nom-

improve their lives through higher education. Like the Hen-

inated by the SCF Foundation.

sons, Beall and Riechmann understand that to truly offer

“Our scholarships are not based solely on an assessment

individuals a chance to improve their lives means looking

of financial needs. A student with parents who can help

beyond traditional approaches. Perhaps the most extreme ex-

out may get less than someone who was homeless and just

ample of their willingness to do what it takes to help is when

moved into an apartment,” says Beall. While students must

a student called to say his car broke down on I-75 while he

keep their grades up to continue to receive funds, Beall and

was on his way to Tampa to take a final exam. Riechmann

Riechmann understand the challenges their students face,

picked up the student, arranged for a wrecker and a rental

and they don’t easily give up on them. They also meet with

car, and the student was able to take his exam.

many of the students twice a year for mentoring to ensure

“We do what’s needed to help students,” he says. “We’ve

they are on track. “Our criteria for giving money include the

bought our share of car transmissions and paid rent money.”

capacity to do the work. We don’t have a 3.0 (grade point

They also are happy to help nontraditional students. “We

average) requirement. We hope for a 2.5,” Beall says. “We’ll

take great pleasure in helping students who are a little older,”

put them on probation five times to keep them going as long

says Beall. “We’ve helped women who are in their late 20s

as they stay in touch and let us know what is going on.”

or early 30s, whose husbands left and they are supporting

Beall and Riechmann also provide assistance through

kids and trying to keep a job, or men who have been painters

organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, Take Stock in

but hurt their backs and realize they need an education for

Children, and the Brotherhood of Men in Newtown, which

another career.”

provides mentors to aid boys and young men and emphasizes

Since they began the scholarship program in 1997, 251

the need to maintain good grades and graduate from high

students have received their assistance. This year, there are

school. Those who do graduate and want to go to college are

53 students receiving scholarships. Beall and Riechmann pri-

given scholarships through Beall and Riechmann’s founda-

marily help students through State College of Florida (SCF),

tion. “It is a very worthwhile organization, Riechmann says,

but also have helped students attend Manatee Technical

“and is just scratching the surface of the need.”

College and other vocational schools. Their efforts have not

Local foundations also have devoted resources to address educational initiatives. The Gulf Coast Community Foundation

Beverly Beall & Kemp Riechmann

launched a STEMsmart initiative in 2010 “to jump-start improved teaching and learning results in science, technology,

Below: STEMsmart students

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engineering and math.” The foundation made a five-year, $2.5

STEM VHS Robotics students

million commitment starting with eight schools in Sarasota and Charlotte counties and growing to include all Sarasota County middle schools and most high schools. To date, funding has grown to more than $9.6 million in grants, donations, and inkind support, helping to use technology and business partnerships to change the way these subjects are taught. “STEMsmart has transformed the way teachers teach and students learn science and math in Sarasota and Charlotte county schools,” says Teri Hansen, President and CEO. “When Gulf Coast began this initiative almost five years ago, even we didn’t imagine how profound those changes would be.”

In addition to its two-generation initiative, the Community Foundation of Sarasota County was named one of 30 Pacesetters nationally for its Campaign for Grade-Level reading. It also has provided more than $165,000 for arts and cultural exploration, through EdExploreSRQ, which was established through The Patterson Foundation in partnership with Sarasota County Schools. Through EdExploreSRQ.com, educators and parents can use the online platform to connect with arts, science, and

the community about the importance of early learning. “Edu-

history experiences available in the region.

cation is one of many factors that contribute to the success of

The Patterson Foundation also is supporting the creation

thriving communities in our region and beyond,” said Deb-

of a connected and strategic approach to the Campaign for

ra Jacobs, President and CEO. “As a private foundation, we

Grade Level Reading in the region and, earlier this year, hosted

choose to focus on more than the issue. It’s about connecting

the managing director of the national Campaign for Grade-Lev-

those individuals, entities, and sectors that are working on cre-

el Reading as well as a series of learning sessions to educate

ating the future in a way that builds lasting change.”

The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation also sup-

Joe & Mary Kay Henson

ports education robustly providing more than $1.2 million in grants for education since 2011, which represents 17 percent of the dollars it has granted during that time, according to Dr. Sarah Papas, President. The foundation has been investing in education for more than five decades by providing undergraduate scholarships to promising students who have a financial need. Depending on need, scholarships are awarded for up to $7,000 per year for full time students and are renewable as long as they keep up their grades. “Bill and Marie Selby had no children of their own,” she says, “but through the legacy of their Selby Foundation, they have helped thousands of young people achieve their dream of a college education, something every good parent aspires to.”

While there is no doubt these, and other initiatives, are making inroads, there’s also no doubt more work remains, and while it is a big problem, it doesn’t take a huge effort.

There are many ways to make a difference in the lives of others. “It costs $1,300 to send a child to school through the summer,” says Joe Henson. “It is not such a large amount for someone to pick up the tab for one child to go to school year round and have a shot at life.”

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Social Van Wezel Foundation Gala The party could have lasted all night at the Van Wezel Foundation Gala with an electric performance by Grammy Award-winning

songstress

Sarah

McLachlan. Following cocktails, dinner, and the performance, guests were swept along to an after party for more fun and dancing. Great job by chairs Lucille Smith, Brenda Maraman, and Kathy Martella as well as Mary Kenealy Events.

Photos by Nancy Guth

Sarah McLachlan

Kathy Martella, Lucille Smith & Brenda Maraman

George Argyros, Mark & Jennie Famiglio, Amy Donnellan, John Secor & Derek Horne

Dr. Richard & Monica VanBuskirk with Gabriella Slater

Est. 1957, Region’s First and Largest Public College Bradenton • Lakewood Ranch • Venice • Online

scf.edu State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota. State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, religion, age, national origin/ethnicity, color, marital status, disability, genetic information and sexual orientation in any of its educational programs, services or activities, including admission and employment. Direct inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies to: Equity Officer, 941-752-5323, PO Box 1849, Bradenton, FL 34206.

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INSPIRED LIVING Building A New Standard In Senior Communities

By Sue Cullen

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S

enior living can be so much more than just a place where people go to live out the rest of their lives. According to Validus Senior Living CEO Steve Benjamin (left),“It can be a place where seniors love living the rest of their lives.� This is the view that fuels Validus Senior Living and its mission to provide personalized care for seniors. Validus sees its communities as places where seniors can receive the care they need while they make new friends, pursue their passions, discover a new interest, and even reach out to help others in need.

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“There’s heart in everything we do here. Ultimately,

from chef-prepared meals to cultural and social activ-

we take care of people’s moms and dads, and the

ities. Amenities include a three-acre lake with a cov-

question is how to do that in the best way possible

ered fishing pier and boardwalk, a sparkling fountain,

as we build the company,” said Benjamin. Achieving

swimming pool area with tiki hut, and a well-equipped

high-quality, personalized care comes down to adher-

fitness center. It also is pet friendly with walking paths

ing to three core principles – empathy, respect, and

and an off-leash dog park.

professionalism – and Benjamin never loses sight that it is the Validus employees delivering care every day

“The Lakewood Ranch community is crazy amenity-

who bring those principles to life.

and activity-rich, and it is pet friendly because if mom

There’s heart in everything we do here.

Ultimately, we take care of people’s moms and dads, and the question is how to do that in the best way possible...

The Tampa-based company offers a range of living options for seniors, from independent living for more active seniors, to standalone memory care communities for people with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. Its first multilevel senior living community is opening on a 14-acre campus in Lakewood Ranch this summer.

Residents there will have a choice of elegant apartments in a range of sizes that come with everything Inspired Living at Hidden Lakes Executive Director Twila Young with resident, Charley

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and dad have had a pet for 10 years, I’m not going to be the guy who says they can’t keep it,” Benjamin said. There are 124 units in all, and the entire community will be licensed, meaning that seniors can age in place. Someone who initially comes into the community for independent living and later needs more care can get the addition-

al services they need without having to move.

A vision to deliver highly personalized care in an engaging, amenity-rich, and secure environment has fueled Validus Senior Living’s growth, and it also has earned the trust of the National Football League. Validus and investment asset firm Piper Jaffray are partnering with the NFL Players Association and the NFL Alumni Association to build communities where retired players who are dealing with the effects of brain trauma and related dementias can live and thrive.

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“Our mission is to build state-of-the-art communities with advanced technology that provide the best environment for mom and dad and peace of mind for our residents’ children,” Benjamin says. “We have to deliver on that promise every time they walk in the door and with every interaction. If we can do all of that, and create a place where people want to come to work, we will be successful.” That has proven true as Validus has opened five memory care communities with assisted living services in Florida since 2012, including Inspired Living at Sarasota, Inspired Living at Hidden Lakes in Bradenton, Inspired Living at Ivy Ridge in St. Petersburg and Inspired Living communities in Sun City Center and Palm Bay. Four more campuses will open this year, including multilevel care communities in Lakewood Ranch and Windermere, outside Orlando, as well as freestanding memory

strangers.” And when it comes to community pro-

care locations in Tampa and Bonita Springs.

gramming, she says it’s not about entertaining. “We’re

Residents at Inspired Living at Hidden Lakes deliver Meals on Wheels in Bradenton

not a cruise ship where everyone does things for you.

The cornerstone of Validus’ approach is delivering

That’s not what we want,” she says. “We love to have

highly personalized care, but what does that mean?

something meaningful for that person. There are read-

“For us, person-centered care means trying to under-

ing groups, cooking, gardening, and volunteer oppor-

stand our residents’ needs and expectations from the

tunities. We have a music therapist and a horticultural

time they come in the door. At the initial meeting, we

therapist who create group and one-on-one activities.

focus on learning residents’ life stories and what they

At one of our communities, residents go out and help

like to do, either from the person or, for someone with

deliver Meals on Wheels.”

dementia, from a family member,” said Rebecca Lingold, senior vice president of operations. Starting from

As an example of just how personalized the care can

the initial meeting, staff members ask questions about

be, Cipperly relates a story of a man who was reminisc-

the individual’s family traditions, what they did for a

ing about flying a kite and how much he enjoyed it. “So

living, and any hobbies and interests the person may

the staff went out and bought him a kite. He flew it and

have, Lingold says. “Our objective is to keep people

loved it. It seems simple, but it is very meaningful to that

engaged and active, including our memory care resi-

person,” she says. In another instance, a man and his

dents. For them, being active and engaged could be an

daughter were upset because he was not able to travel

86-year-old resident rocking a baby doll. He is engaged

to her wedding. So, the staff invited family members to

because it is something that is meaningful to him. We

come to the community and filmed the daughter dancing

always treat them like adults while letting them do what

with her father, which was then played at the wedding.

is natural and feels meaningful to them.”

“It’s truly about the family and caring for them, too.

That keen focus on residents’ needs was demonstrated

We want to make them feel they can still do things

when Benjamin chose his first employee, AJ Cipperly,

with their loved ones. A lot of times people come to

according to Lingold. Cipperly is regional director of

visit and don’t know what to do. Instead of just sitting

programming and a certified Positive Approach to Care

around, we encourage families to be with their loved

trainer. The certification is based on the teachings of Tee-

one during activities, including the educational lec-

pa Snow, a dementia care expert of international renown

tures we have on a variety of topics,” Cipperly says.

whose approach to aging and memory care focuses on

“It’s important for people to realize there is still life

a person’s strengths and what they still are able to do –

as you age, and a lot of people experience that. Just

rather than what has been lost.

because someone hasn’t painted or played an instrument, doesn’t mean that they won’t have an interest in

“Personalized care really is the heart of what we do,

it and learn. People discover new things about them-

and by getting to know someone up front, it is seam-

selves here. There is a stereotype that aging is horrible

less when they move in,” Cipperly says. “They come

and dementia is horrible. It is difficult, but it does not

to people who know them versus a building full of

mean that your life is over.”

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Inspiring “Aquarium Rooms” provide residents with soothing, realistic undersea murals to stimulate their senses

Validus has a particular specialty in memory care, using

part from an executive team that has many years of

a combination of technology and its personalized care

experience with senior living. Benjamin has 25 years

approach to create an enriching environment. Technol-

of experience and was a founding partner of Horizon

ogy helps make that happen safely for everyone, includ-

Bay Retirement Living, which he grew to more than $3

ing memory care residents. “Often when people are

billion in assets with 94 communities throughout the

considering a memory care community for their loved

United States. Lingold has 28 years of operations and

ones, they want to see how big the room is, but that is the

technology experience specific to senior living and also

wrong way to look at things. We don’t want them in their

worked for years with Benjamin at Horizon Bay. Both

rooms. We want them engaged with meaningful days

believe strongly in the model of personalized care they

and to have free and safe access throughout the commu-

are developing and attribute their ability to grow suc-

nity,” Benjamin said. “In our memory care areas, they are

cessfully to investors with “patient capital.”

offered the option of wearing a bracelet, something like the fitness bracelets people wear. It tracks where they are

“We founded Validus to create first-class senior

at any given time, and they are able to call for assistance

communities and have the luxury of not having

easily. If a resident goes into an area that requires chaper-

to make financial decisions that are not consis-

oning, then a staff member knows about it right away and

tent with our three guiding principles,” Benjamin

can go there. It creates a lot of comfort for residents’ loved

says. “We’re building our brand regionally in the

ones.” Cameras also are placed in the common areas to

Southeast with a goal of being the best, not nec-

help staff members provide optimal care. Motion sensors

essarily the biggest.” The company is on track to

let staff know when someone goes into a bathroom or

continue building five or six communities a year,

gets out of bed – both situations that create a high risk for

expanding nationally in Dallas, New Orleans, and

falls – so someone can provide assistance.

Atlanta in partnership with the NFL players and alumni groups, with a goal of eventually having

A rich selection of off-campus activities is not just

communities in all 32 NFL cities.

limited to residents in independent and assisted living; those in the memory care unit also can enjoy

Regardless how much Validus grows in the future,

outings to baseball games and other pastimes. “Peo-

its leadership is committed to staying true to its fo-

ple come to our buildings to live as full a life as pos-

cus on caring that extends from residents to their

sible,” Lingold says. “I was at our Sun City Center

families. “I like that we can help people sleep better

memory care community recently, and when I got

knowing their loved one is not just being cared for,

there, everyone was outside in floppy hats and sun-

but can actually thrive and live well at our commu-

glasses getting ready to go on a picnic in the park. Just

nities,” Cipperly says. “It is not about living out the

because someone has a memory impairment doesn’t

rest of their lives, but having a fulfilled life for the

mean we can’t do things with them that we do with

rest of their lives.”

other residents. There’s always something going on.”

To learn more about the new Lakewood Ranch Validus Senior Living’s rapid success comes in large

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community, call 941.893.3007. scenesarasota.com

gulfcoast

Presents

A Night in the Shark Tank Wednesday June 10, 2015 | 5:30pm – 8:00pm Mote Aquarium | 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota Tickets: $80 / Free for CEO Forum members

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Featuring guest speaker Kevin Harrington, the original Shark on ABC’s

hit show Shark Tank, who will be telling his “Entrepreneur Story” and then moderating a panel of investors as they discuss what they look for when

investing in a company. Cocktails & light bites provided by Michael’s On East.

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Straight Shooters

Downtown Sarasota’s The Bullet Hole is Florida’s Oldest Gun Shop

By Sue Cullen | Photos by John Revisky

The Misantone family, from left: Stella, Barbara, Dasher (dog), Brooke (standing), Francis & Alexandra

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Wilson Combat Pinnacle

TrackingPoint .338 Lapua rifle

Crossing the threshold of The Bullet Hole is something like being simultaneously transported to an Old Florida outpost or an African Queen-era safari.

Your eyes are captivated by dozens of native and exotic animals gazing at you from all directions. Or, it’s equally possible that the first thing you see is a postcard-pretty little girl chasing her puppy. Either way, it’s not necessarily what you’d expect to find in a most-definitely modern gun store, let alone a store in the heart of downtown Sarasota.

This unique family owned and operated business is Florida’s oldest gun store and has thrived among the trendy restaurants, high-rise condominiums, art galleries, and boutiques for 68 years. The Bullet Hole’s owners, Francis and Barbara Misantone, and their son, Brooke, are always at the store to welcome everyone from novice and first-time buyers to seasoned hunters and firearms enthusiasts. And they also are always willing to satisfy the natural curiosity about the taxidermy animals populating the walls and floor, which are a legacy from the store’s early days.

“It’s very much a piece of natural history,” says Brooke, referring to the massive Cape buffalo head mounted over the TV in the lounge and child play area.

Nearby is a lion skin (from a former circus lion who lived a long life and was euthanized decades ago), and the store is filled with other animals, totaling about 100.

These include birds of prey preserved with wings spread and talons extended as well as a wildebeest, gazelles, and magnificently antlered kudu antelope among many others. Greeting passers-by from the glass fronted store at 330 S. Orange Avenue are a full size black bear complete with jaunty park ranger hat, a la the iconic Smokey the Bear, and a bristling Russian wild boar. “Teachers have brought their classes to our store to look at the animals,” Brooke says.

Until two years ago, the store was a fixture on Main Street before moving to the 330 S. Orange Avenue location, which offers ample parking in the rear for convenience, huge windows across the store front that wash the interior with light, and space to accommodate a full range of products for home defense, sport, and collecting. “We’re the oldest newest gun store in Florida,” says Francis referring to the move. “We have very old roots in a new location with modern appeal.”

The Bullet Hole is a Class III firearms dealer and carries names that are the who’s who of firearms manufacturers, including Remington, Benelli, Smith & Wesson, Colt, Beretta, Ruger, Glock, Sig Sauer, Wilson Combat, and of course the very

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James Bond Walther PPK. Whether you are an enthusiast or a novice, the store has something for everyone. Many customers are looking for home defense and security products, which has made The Bullet Hole’s Liberty and GunVault safes top sellers. “People use them to secure more than just guns,” Brooke says. “They are nice for people who want affordable home safes. My Dad and I install all of them, and customers like that they don’t have to bring an outside crew into their homes for installation.”

For those looking for firearms, prices in the store for new guns can

Above: Liberty home safe for firearms and valuables

range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars. For the enthusiast, the Misantones keep up with the latest by attending the SHOT Show in Las Vegas every year, and Francis points out a futuristic looking $27,000 TrackingPoint .338 Lapua rifle (pictured above) and a Wilson combat rifle along with some vintage Colts and Winchesters. But he knows that many of his customers are inexperienced, and everything is geared to getting the right gun for them.

“When someone comes in, I want to get a feel for their level of ability. Many people come in here with no experience at all, and the first thing I do is give them the business card of a good instructor who has the ability to let you try a few different kinds of guns,” Francis says. “That saves people money because they don’t wind up buying a gun they don’t like. We want people to be safe handgun owners with the proficiency they need, so we’re honest and straight with them. No shenanigans.”

Being a family business does have its advantages for The Bullet Hole because many women are shopping for firearms these days. The Misantones have taken pains to make the store safe and welcoming. “Our goal is to make everyone feel comfortable. We have two generations working here so we can connect with just about everyone,” Barbara says. “A lot of women come in to the store. Some may have lost their husbands and want protection or their husband enjoys target shooting and they want to enjoy it with him.” The store has a kiddie corner where children can play with toys and games or watch a Disscenesarasota.com

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ney movie. There also is a customer lounge with a coffee machine and two comfortable sofas. “We have a safe environment,” Francis says. “My granddaughters come in almost every day.”

Revolvers tend to be the best option for most novices because they are the safest and most reliable guns. Some women don’t have the hand strength to pull the slide fully on a semi-automatic weapon, which can cause it to fail to function — something you definitely don’t want to happen in an emergency, he says. That speaks to the quality of the gun being purchased, and prices can range widely for the “same” gun.

While someone may like to feel safe and want some protection, guns aren’t necessarily for everyone, so The Bullet Hole also carries other protective devices like pepper spray, stun guns and collapsible batons. “You’d be amazed how many parents buy batons for their kids who are heading off to college campuses,” Francis says. “Pepper spray also is effective. It’s painful and will stop an attacker.” The store also carries a host of accessories, including scopes, holsters, magazine pouches, cleaning kits, hearing and eye protection, and gun locks, cases, and safes.

For home defense, managing the dilemma between having a gun readily accessible when you need it and keeping it locked up so it stays out of the wrong hands can be a matter of routine, Francis says.

If there are young children in the house, there’s no other option but to keep guns locked safely away from curious hands. Where children are not present, getting into the habit of taking the gun out of the safe and storing it in the nightstand at night and putting it back in the morning should become a part of the daily routine. “We don’t just look at the bottom line, we look at everything as a family business.

Our biggest concern is that when people leave, we want to know they will be safe with their firearms.”

To find out more about The Bullet Hole, call 941.957.1996, visit bulletholeonline.com, or stop by the store at 330 S. Orange Avenue, Sarasota.

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Teen

Wonders

JOHN REVISKY

Photography & Styling: Assistant: Nathaniel Rothenberger

SCENE is pleased to present seven outstanding young ladies whose achievements, athleticism, winsome personalities, and limitless potential make us optimistic that their generation holds much promise and excitement for our future. In a world in which we hear much of what’s going wrong, these teen wonders prove there is so much going right.

Location: Bay Preserve at Osprey on little Sarasota Bay is protected by Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast. The preserve features a performance pavilion, a dock, and an historic boathouse with a wildlife observation platform, the 1931 Burrows-Matson House and carriage house, and a quarter mile nature trail. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as well as the Sarasota County Historic Register. Bay Preserve may be used for weddings, private parties, board meetings, retreats, and corporate and community events. scenesarasota.com

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Patricia Sydney Askins

Patricia Sydney Askins, who is completing her junior year at Sarasota High School, made some significant waves this spring when she gained the highest marks in the world for Cambridge AS Level History and Cambridge AS Level General Paper and gained the highest mark in the U.S. over four Cambridge AS Level examinations.

Sydney also received the Cambridge Scholar Award with Distinction. Outside of the classroom, she competes on Sarasota High’s Academic Olympics team, was the Junior President of the National English Honor Society, and is a member of the National Honor Society, AICE Student Committee, and Sarasota High Student Government. After a diagnosis of Crohn’s Disease in 2009, she formed a fundraising team that has raised more than $30,000 to benefit the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America. She is the daughter of Dr. Vance Askins and Chris Askins.

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Cameron Berlin Born and raised in Sarasota, Cameron Berlin has attended Pine View School since the second grade. She is now heading to Bucknell University after graduating with straight A’s as a member of Pine View School’s class of 2015. Cameron has also been a member of Sarasota Crew since the seventh grade and has competed at the state and national level as a coxswain. Bucknell was impressed by her combination of academic and athletic prowess and recruited her to attend. Cameron plans to major in chemistry and is really looking forward to participating in collegiate rowing as a coxswain for the Bisons. She is the daughter of Donna Padar Berlin and Evan Berlin.

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Sydney Edwards Sydney Edwards is a coxswain on the men’s varsity team at Sarasota Crew and has steered many of her boats to gold medals on the state and national levels. Last fall, she coxed the Sarasota Crew men’s varsity 4+ to a first place finish at the prestigious Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston. Although her participation with Sarasota Crew takes much of her free time, Sydney has maintained a 3.8 cumulative GPA at Pine View School where she is entering her junior year. Her parents are Sherry and Mike Edwards.

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Olivia Epstein

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Olivia Epstein is an honor roll student at Pine View School and will be a senior in the fall. Although she is an outstanding student, Sarasota Crew and rowing have become her passions. Being in such a beautiful environment every day has ignited a love of the outdoors and the importance of preserving the bay, and Olivia joins other Crew athletes and Sarasota Bay Watch in cleaning out monofilaments and other materials that are harmful to the bay’s wildlife. She volunteers at Sarasota Crew Rowing Camp at Historic Spanish Point helping promote both the value of Little Sarasota Bay and the sport of rowing to younger children. Olivia also is a junior counselor and leader-in-training at Camp Gravatt helping children with every facet of the summer camp experience and mentors elementary students who are reading below grade level. Olivia’s parents are Melissa and James Epstein.

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Maggie McGaharan

Margaret Mary “Maggie” McGaharan is a 2015 graduate of the Out-of-Door Academy. Her academic route was somewhat untraditional having completed third through ninth grades as a homeschooled student who also traveled the world, learned music and dance, and taught herself computer coding. At age 13, she wrote electronic dance music for free download to raise mental health awareness and started Teen Health Help Center in ninth grade, which has evolved from videos and blog posts to live shows where viewers can donate to mental health causes. Maggie has managed to complete about 400 community service hours for various worthy causes to date while also acting as school mascot, winning the #findflagler photo contest, and working at Gigi’s Cupcakes as a decorator and customer service rep. Oh yes, she’s also created her own greeting card company, Maggie’s Moments. Maggie is the daughter of Jodi and Kevin McGaharan.

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Hayden Leigh Verinder A straight-A student in her junior and senior year at Cardinal Mooney High School, Hayden Leigh Verinder has also earned a varsity letter in lacrosse all four years. She will be entering Auburn University in the fall as a business major. Hayden also is an accomplished musician, playing piano, violin, and guitar, and volunteering with the Sarasota Youth Orchestra. Her extracurricular activities are extensive. She served as Vice Commodore of the Sarasota Yacht Club Ensign Board and has volunteered for Habitat for Humanity, the Miracle League Club of Manasota, Gocio Elementary Reading Mentor Program, Sarasota Memorial Hospital and more. She is the daughter of Monica and David Verinder.

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Olivia White

After graduating from Out-of-Door Academy, Olivia White is looking forward to attending Furman University in the fall. She will be spending her summer, as she did last year, working at Sotheby’s International Realty in Manhattan (her dad is Sotheby’s President and CEO). Olivia excelled at the Outof-Door Academy as a National Honor Society student and ambassador for the Student Admissions Leadership Team.

She also played on the school’s volleyball team all four years. Olivia is a talented photographer, an avid pinner on Pinterest, and loves running the Ringling Bridge.

Her parents are Philip A. White and Paige Hardy White. Through her high school years, Olivia has lived with Laura and Jay Crouse, her aunt and uncle.

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libbyscafebar.com

OUR HEALTHY SEIDES Good nutrition is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Libby's and Louie's offer an eclectic and vibrant menu including items that align with healthy eating habits. We focus on creating outstanding dishes centered on fresh produce and high-quality proteins, while minimizing processed ingredients and saturated fats. Oh, and p.s., our dishes are delicious. Come taste for yourself.

Louies Modern, Libby’s Cafe & Bar, The Francis and Modern Events are TABLESEIDEŽ dining concepts

tableseide.com

louiesmodern.com

Social Forty Carrots Family Center’s Firefly Gala A festive atmosphere capped by a private concert by Poison front man Bret Michaels rocked the Ritz-Carlton Members Golf Club – all to benefit Forty Carrots Family Center. Ariane Dart, the event’s founder, chaired again this year. Guests bid on some great auction items, including the chance to meet Michaels and win a signed guitar. Showing what a stand-up guy he is, Michaels announced on stage that he was making a $10,000 donation.

Photos by Nancy Guth

Inna Snyder & Barbara Stainbrook

Pauline Joerger, Jennifer Rominiecki, Bill & Nora Johnson

Ariane Dart

Lisa Brandy, Janet Sperling & Marilyn Weisenberg

Tav & Jessica Ortiz

Michelle Kapreilian

JHCF’s Eight Over 80 Brunch The Jewish Housing Council Foundation welcomed 350 guests to its third annual Eight over 80 brunch honoring eight individuals for their legacy of leadership and outstanding community achievements.

The FSU/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training’s Fa La La Singers entertained, and attendees viewed video vignettes about each honoree.

Back row: Alice Rau, Sidney & Helen Fagin, Howard Millman, Bill & Marge Sandy Front row: Howard & Betty Isermann, Alice Berkowitz, Isabel Anchin Becker

Susan Benson-Steenbarger, Heidi Brown & Debbie Haspel

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Irving & Marilyn Naiditch

Norman Rich

Kate Alexander, Howard Millman & Carolyn Michel scenesarasota.com

Multigenerational Family Businesses Secrets to Success

By Sue Engelhart

Small business is the foundation of the economy here, providing the amenities residents and visitors enjoy from restaurants, retail, and hospitality businesses to medical practices and building trades. Many of them are family businesses whose names are familiar to those who have been here even just a short time like Mullet, Saunders, Seidensticker, Toale, and Sutter to name just a handful. Others may not be as visible locally, but their businesses are known all over the world. Staying a successful multigenerational family business over decades requires walking a fine line between the business and personal and the ability to deliver results today while planning for the longevity of the business for future generations. scenesarasota.com

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“Less than 10 percent of closely held businesses are successfully transitioned to the third generation,” according to Tom Beames, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of SunTrust Private Wealth Management. “With estate taxes at 40 percent on estates over $10.86 million for a married couple, there needs to be liquidity available to pay estate taxes. Without sufficient liquidity, a family may be forced to sell the business within nine months and is not likely to receive maximum value.”

And that is just one issue multigenerational family businesses face. Beames has more than a dozen questions that need to be addressed ranging from family governance, transition issues or possible sale, and exit options. “A succession plan must address each of these issues,” he says. “When you consider the financial, managerial, familial, and intangible issues involved with this type of transaction, professional advice is a must. It can be a daunting task for a business owner whose main focus has been on growing a healthy and successful business through the years.”

The Cavanaugh Company

Staying in Tune

One local family has successfully transitioned its business

weigh the challenges. One of the strengths is the dedication. My

to a second generation, and now a third generation is actively

family will always have my back. Even if we disagree on some

involved. Its products probably are very familiar to the musi-

things, in the end, we always will be there for each other.”

cally inclined although the umbrella company many not be as

One of the considerations with multigenerational family busi-

well known to those who are not steeped in the music busi-

nesses is how to be fair to all of the siblings, those who are in and

ness. The Cavanaugh Company is tucked away in an industrial

out of the business. “It’s important to have enough insurance for

park near Cattlemen Road and Palmer Boulevard in Sarasota

the estate tax because you hear horror stories where the govern-

County. It’s subsidiary companies Super Sensitive String Co.,

ment takes the business,” Cavanaugh says. “It takes planning, but

Black Diamond Strings, and Bari Woodwind Supplies have an

in some cases it can be a taboo subject. What it takes is openness

international reach.

and discussion to be sure we have the right information.”

The Super Sensitive String Co., which as the name implies

Aaron Thiel, Vice President and Senior Wealth Planner for

produces strings for violin, viola, cello, and bass along with a line

PNC Wealth Management, who works with many business own-

of accessories, has been around since 1930. The company was

ers, agrees. “Addressing these issues works best if they are talked

founded in Chicago and purchased by Vincent Cavanaugh and

about years in advance with the family,” Thiel says. “The family

his son, John, in 1967. Its products have graced the instruments

business, in many cases, is the largest asset the family owns, so

of such luminaries as Charlie Daniels and Joss Turner. One of its

we have to look at retirement planning for the owners and what is

products, Red Label string, is the number one student string in

really important is to treat the children equally.” Situations where

America. The two men relocated the business to Sarasota in 1972,

one child is in the business but others aren’t can be complex. “If

and eventually, John’s son, Jim, joined the business. Today John

the business is the biggest asset, then the question becomes how

is Chairman, his wife and Jim’s mother, Ellen, is Vice President of

to make children who are not in the business whole,” he says.

Finance, Jim is President, and his wife, Susan, is Vice President

“We’ve seen life insurance brought in to do that. That way the

of Marketing. The Cavanaughs subsequently purchased Black Di-

other child is not left out in the cold because they will get what

amond Strings, a 125-year-old company that supplies strings for

their half interest would be.”

all types of guitars and banjos as well as mandolins, fiddles, and

Adding to the complexity are situations in which children are

violins, and Bari Woodwind Supplies, which makes mouthpieces

in different circumstances and have different needs. One child

and reeds for clarinets and saxophones.

may need income to meet current obligations while another may

“Family businesses definitely have a different dynamic,”

instead want to reinvest profits in the business. “Addressing these

says Jim Cavanaugh. “Not only do we have to have the mindset

issues means gathering as much detail as possible and having

of running it like a business, but you have the family side of it,

an advisory team with their attorney, CPA, and financial advisor

which can be challenging at times although the benefits out-

looking at the situation from all angles,” Thiel says.

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Reasons

A Firm Footing

While looking toward the future is imperative for multigen-

for 20 years. As part of his responsibilities, Michael runs a major

erational family businesses, so is staying grounded in the present.

online business that is part of the Morris’ group. Many of Reasons’

Longevity in a business can be either an asset in terms of brand

employees also have long tenure with the company, in some cas-

recognition and goodwill or an anchor if it leads to stagnant and

es nearly 20 years, definitely not the norm in retail. George says

NIH (not invented here) thinking. George Morris, who operates

good communication and involving all the partners in important

the Reasons shoe store in downtown Sarasota with his wife, Le-

decisions is one key to successful family businesses. “”I think the

onor, and son Michael, understands the value of shaking things

other key piece is that humor is mandatory,” he says. “We do a lot

up in a long established business—even when the economy is

of laughing even in rough times. We egg each other on and are

dragging in the down side of the cycle.

quick to pick the other up if they stumble.”

Reasons’ roots go back to 1947. It went through a couple of it-

Another mindset is always to be open to new ideas. “You

erations before moving to St. Armands Circle and becoming some-

have to really work at harvesting new ideas from outside. It’s easy

thing of a fixture there for many years, filling a definite market

to convince yourself you have all the answers,” George says. “The

niche with its line of finer quality, resort style shoes. George Mor-

move from St. Armands to downtown in 2012 was part of a deter-

ris first came across the store while visiting Sarasota. At the time

mination of ours that we had to shake the box.” They also created

he was running a large national shoe company that was opening a

a whole new look that was ultimately reflected in the company

store in Sarasota Square Mall. “I went to Sarasota to look at Rea-

website and ended up creating a new online business. “Two years

sons because they knew more about resort shoes than anyone else

ago, Michael got a call from Amazon in Seattle, and they wanted

in the country,” he says. “I’d look in the windows and steal ideas.”

to know if we wanted to start a partnership.” he says. “They were

Leonor Morris also has extensive experience in the footwear busi-

interested in our resort selection of better grade footwear, and

ness, and when George eventually sold a chain of 19 stores to a

it has turned into a dynamic business in a very short time. Had

major shoe company, the stars, in a sense, aligned.

we not decided to shake that box, build a new place, and give it

“The day I closed the deal, the phone rang and a friend asked

a whole new look, we never would have heard from Amazon.”

me if I knew that Reasons was for sale,” he says. “I said no, but I

One thing is certain when it comes to family owned business-

know who is going to buy it.” And their son, Michael, who grew

es, while we continue to enjoy the fruits of their labors as they make

up in the shoe business and has dual degrees in business and infor-

this a great place to live, we also are fortunate to have resources here

mation technology, also joined them and has been in the business

that can help ensure they stay around for generations to come.

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USFSM

&

The Resort At Longboat Key Club

Partnership Gives Hospitality Students RealWorld Skills

The College of Hospitality and Technology Leadership at USF Sarasota-Manatee (USFSM) is inviting its students to roll up their sleeves and experience a learning environment outside of the classroom. Just 15 minutes from USF Sarasota-Manatee, The Resort at Longboat Key Club is a world-class facility that has been named the official USFSM Teaching Hotel through an innovative partnership. This partnership enables USFSM faculty members to integrate hands-on work experience into their students’ curriculum, creating a unique learning experience. By learning at the resort, students earn valuable skills and practical knowledge to prepare them for future leadership roles in the hospitality industry.

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For Franco Valencia (left), Hospitality Management senior at USFSM, the hands-on resort experience has expanded his industry knowledge.

With a textbook, you read it and understand “ it in your own way, but businesses change so much. What you read last year can be outdated by this year, which can lead to entering an industry unprepared. Experiencing operations at The Resort at Longboat Key Club gave me the tools to understand more than I would have through just a book and test, Valencia said.

”

The benefits of studying at the resort

Culinary Innovation Lab in Lakewood

The Resort at Longboat Key Club, Yang

extend beyond learning industry-specific

Ranch, where his duties center on food

arranged for each student enrolled in this

skills, however; Valencia says that the

operations. “I have had nothing but great

class to spend two four-hour shifts in the

Teaching Hotel has also helped him

role models,” said Valencia, reflecting on

housekeeping department and two five-

discover new career directions and narrow

his experiences and mentors. “I am very

hour shifts in the front office shadowing,

his focus. He aims to become either an

happy to be part of this great school and all

assisting and learning.

Executive Chef or Director of Food and

it has to offer.”

“The Teaching Hotel really provides

Beverage in the future. Because his work

As one of USFSM’s first professors to

students an opportunity to experience

experience at the resort has encompassed

host a class at The Resort at Longboat Key

real hotel operations and helps them

such a wide variety of departments and

Club, Dr. Wan Yang immediately saw the

make better career decisions,” said Yang.

Valencia

“Based on student feedback

feels better prepared and

and my own observations, I

responsibilities, knowledgeable

of

the

career directions he can pursue

after

graduation.

“As one example, I had the honor of working with the housekeeping

department

at the resort. It gives you a

It helps transfer the knowledge from the textbook “ to real operations. For example, teaching the checkin/check-out process in the classroom can be too abstract, but observing the real service encounter in a hotel is more memorable and vivid.

better perspective of how different

departments

”

– Dr. Wan Yang

believe this model has real merit for giving students an

opportunity

to

apply

the knowledge they learn from the textbook to reallife procedures. It provides a good balance between conceptual

training

and

hands-on experience.”

all

come together to make sure

benefits of integrating the Teaching Hotel

Students enrolled in the

guests have everything they need. Every

into her curriculum. USFSM’s Lodging

hosted classes are evaluated not only by their

department is just as important because

Management class focuses on departmental

professors, but also by the resort manager

they are all the backbone of the industry,”

hotel functions and teaches students to

on duty. Therefore, part of their course

said Valencia. “My time at the Teaching

use key performance indicators to make

grade

Hotel has helped me understand the

and evaluate managerial decisions. The

arriving on time and exhibiting a positive

business in so many ways.”

Teaching Hotel brings these concepts to

work attitude, all of which contribute to

includes

dressing

professionally,

Through the Teaching Hotel, USFSM

life. “It helps transfer the knowledge from

improved professionalism and the ability

also provides students with opportunities

the textbook to real operations,” said Yang.

to meet and exceed industry expectations.

to connect with business professionals,

“For example, teaching the check-in/check-

Students emerge from the program as well

forging a strong network that can lead to

out process in the classroom can be too

rounded business professionals, equipped

internships and employment. In addition

abstract, but observing the real service

with comprehensive work experience and

to his classwork at the Teaching Hotel,

encounter in a hotel is more memorable

prepared to take on leadership positions in

Valencia holds an internship at USFSM’s

and vivid.” Through the partnership with

the hospitality industry upon graduation.

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scenes from an interview You can’t help but notice her. She is a beautiful whirlwind of energy who spreads her infectious passion all around the community in an effort to make our world a safer, better and more beautiful place. Once you spend a little time with Graci McGillicuddy, you clearly understand what makes her tick. Family.

Children. Helping others. Especially helping children. Graci is Board Chair of the Child Protection Center, which is more than just an impressive building in downtown Sarasota. It is a place where children can go to feel safe, know they are not alone, and get back to being a child. She is an advocate and a protector who is completely dedicated to helping any and all children survive, thrive, and fly as they were intended with the grace and beauty of a butterfly. Determined and disciplined, she wants to devote the rest of her life to assuring all children have a voice. Graci truly lives her mantra of being the change she wishes to see in the world. As we sat together for this interview, I found it fortuitous that a butterfly flew by the window as though it knew it was time for Graci to start talking about the cause that’s closest to her heart and that we were about to take a look at some scenes from an interview of her amazing life.

– By Gus Mollasis

Graci McGillicuddy Where were you born?

Bogota, Columbia.

I love your name, and it suits you well. Where did it come from?

I was born to German parents. Graciela Saenz was my birth name. I had a friend who said, “I can’t say Graciela every time I talk to you” so she shortened it to Graci. I went with it and have been Graci ever since.

What was the greatest thing taught to you by your parents?

Honesty. I remember my dad saying that honesty was like pregnancy. You either are or you aren’t. My parents led by example. They were incredibly loving and wonderful human beings. They were the best role models.

I don’t ever remember getting lectures from them. I remember never wanting to let them down as a child.

How were you disciplined as child?

I think my parents were phenomenal disciplinarians. The word discipline really stands for disciple, which means to be a leader and teacher. And they did that. We were taught right from wrong. I have always been a black or white person, so something is either right or wrong. We had a lot of love growing up. My parents were very intuitive. I would walk into a room scenesarasota.com

and my dad would sense if something was wrong and say, “What’s going on? Did you have a rough day in school?” They were very engaged in what we were doing. In fact that’s why we moved to the United States, because the American school we were going to only went to the eighth grade. They didn’t want us to go to a Columbian school, and they didn’t want to send us to the United States during those formative years. They gave up an incredible lifestyle to bring us to the states.

Where were you educated?

I grew up in Miami and went to high school at Miami Edison. That’s where we moved when we came from Columbia. For college, I wanted to be a language major and work for the government or as an ambassador because I spoke Spanish and German fluently.

Duke University had a great language school, but I realized I didn’t want to be that far away from home. I decided to go to the University of Florida.

Tell me how you and Dennis McGillicuddy met and how you knew that he was the one.

I was a Delta Gamma and Dennis was an SAE. I was a junior and dating an SAE when I was introduced to Dennis who at the time didn’t have a girlfriend. So I fixed Dennis up with one of my sorority sisters, and we double dated. Then, Dave and I broke up. I knew May 2015

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about her brother going to college. She said, “I’m going to miss his compliments, and I’m going to miss him just being there for me all the time.” I expected something trite, but it was so deep and sweet that I almost burst into tears. A little while later I asked my grandson what he would miss about his brother going away. He said, “I’m going to miss our drives together and our talks.”

Then he just teared up. And I teared up. The depth of feeling that those children have for each other is phenomenal. I guess that same engagement my parents had with me was passed on. Children learn what they live.

Be that role model. As we say in Embracing Our Differences, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” I live by that quote.

he wasn’t the one. Still the next morning, I was upset, cut my 10:30 class and saw Dennis, who had also arbitrarily cut his 10:30 class, sitting with a bunch of SAEs. They heard Dave and I broke up and asked me to join them for a cup of coffee. Dennis immediately asked me out. It was magic. We both fell head over heels in love.

Eighteen days later we were pinned and four months later we were engaged.

Tell me what your family means to you.

My family is the nuts and bolts of my life. I’m all about family. My kids and grandkids. I lost my mom and dad, and I still think about them every day of my life.

What is the greatest thing you hope that you have instilled in your children and grandchildren?

To always be there for each other. And to have the integrity within yourself to always do the right thing. I recently asked my granddaughter what she would miss

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What is missing today from the American family dynamic?

While I think there are a lot of amazing families and children, unfortunately it seems like we only hear about the bad stuff. What our society is missing more than anything is engagement. For example, I saw a woman who was beautifully dressed who obviously cared deeply for her baby. She had her baby nestled against her, but she’s on the cell phone. Meanwhile the little baby is looking up at her trying to make eye contact and the mom is looking around everywhere else but at the baby. What this child is learning is, “I don’t matter.

I’m not important. And when mom talks I don’t look at her.” Once I was playing with a baby at the infant center. We were engaged and smiling and the moment I started to feed her, she stopped making eye contact with me no matter what I did. I asked my friend, who is a psychologist, what was going on. She told me that the mother was probably on the cell phone while feeding her or watching TV and probably didn’t make eye contact. There was nothing I could do to engage with her when she was eating. My advice to parents is when you’re with your children, be engaged because that’s how children get their self confidence, sense of who they are, and learn to believe in themselves.

One of your passionate causes is the Child Protection Center. How did you first become involved with helping children?

I was always involved with my kids completely and totally as a mom. I had no idea child abuse even existed. Flashback to 1986. I read about baby Shannon Nicole who was brutally abused. Every bone in her body was broken. She had cigarette burns. Her little battered and broken body was put in diaper bag and left at DeSoto Hospital. This story haunted, haunted, haunted, and haunted me. It was around the time of my birthday, and I said to Dennis, rather than get me some more jewelry, let me have the money, and I’ll go scenesarasota.com

find a place that is doing something to help children. I found the Child Protection Center and decided to give them the money. Later I was asked to be on the board and the rest is history. Today the building on Orange Avenue is dedicated to the memory of Shannon Nicole. This past October we had an open house. After a tour of the building, one of the ladies told me she was the caseworker for Shannon Nicole. She said that she couldn’t believe that something so beautiful happened because of that baby girl. That’s just the most validating feeling. You know, one person can make a difference.

Little Shannon Nicole did not die in vain.

You were recently honored for your community service at a Tampa Bay Lightning game. Tell me about that.

I was nominated for a community leader award. Mr. Vinik, the owner of the Tampa Bay Lightning, vowed to honor a community leader as a hero before each of the 41 home games and give $50,000 dollars to their charities. I was awarded that for the Child Protection Center and my work with abused children. It was a great honor. I even put the Lightning jersey on. You can put anything you want on the back of the jersey, and I put Shannon Nicole’s name on mine.

The statistics on child abuse and crimes against children is startling. It seems they have no one advocating for them in the same way that other groups advocate for the homeless or for animals.

Children don’t write big checks. They don’t have lobbyists. They don’t have access. So often when something happens to a child, the child does not have the money to do anything about it. Somehow in this country, voices are loudest where there is money. All of it is very important.

Everybody matters. Look at the juvenile justice system. I don’t think there are bad children; I think there are children making bad choices. Often they don’t know any better. Some of them go into the juvenile justice system then straight from there into prison. My dream is to get people to think differently about how we treat our children. You can’t treat a terrorist like we treat our children. You can’t treat an animal like we treat our children. I think about teaching children to make good choices that last for a lifetime. To “empower” them rather than have “power over” them. When you hit a child, they might change their behavior but the lesson learned is that if you don’t agree or like what someone does, you hit them. If you see a child running by the pool, don’t yell, “don’t run”. Instead yell, “walk”. Let kids know what you want from them and not what you don’t want. They are eager to please.

You’re very nurturing. What was your major in college?

I decided I wanted to be a child psychologist. When scenesarasota.com

I was pregnant with my son, I read every single book on raising children. Haim Ginott, a noted child psychologist and educator, gives some great examples. Ginott says to imagine if your husband comes home and says, “Sweetheart, I love you so much and you’re just the best wife I could ever dream of but I’m going to Finish the following sentences… bring home another wife A good parent is one who… just like you.” (Laughs) I Is a good role model and engages read that and prepared my with his or her child. child Denny for the arrival of our second baby. I told Our children are… him that the baby will be The future. They’re a third of the coming and it will cry and population but 100 percent of our I will have to pay attention future. to it. We’re not going to be able to just go to the Protecting our children is… library or the park and Everybody’s job. We should all be all these things that we’re child advocates because they don’t used to doing. And momhave a voice. my is probably going to be a little grouchy because Through education child abuse can… she’s up all night with the Evaporate. First of all, children don’t baby because they cry for come with instructions. One of the a long time. I went on and leading causes of death for children on and probably painted under four is child abuse, and one one of the most dismal of the largest contributors to that is pictures in the world. One shaken baby syndrome. People get day Denny was standing so frustrated that they shake the baby at the edge of the crib and the baby either dies or becomes looking at the baby. I was damaged for life. In Sweden apparstanding nearby and asked ently there is no child abuse, and him what was up. And he they send a nurse home with you for said, “Mom, she’s not that the first two weeks to guide you in bad.” (Laughs) If you had all the power in the world to do anything to help children, what would you do?

If I could wave a magic wand, I would take away all the hurt of all the mommies and daddies so that they could be better parents.

how to treat your baby. Education is the only way we will break the cycle.

Things we should always do for our children…

Love and nurture them. According my pediatrician, a spoiled child is a child who gets everything he wants but love.

Things we should never do to our children...

Hurt them physically or emotionally.

How do you get people to change their behavior?

Teach them and show them. One of the things I’m working on right now is the mental health of children who have been abused.

When they first get abused, they need post-traumatic stress treatment because abuse wires the brain. Hal Hedley of the Children’s Guardian Fund tells a story

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about a boy he was guardian for from the time he was four years old and then became best of friends with in adulthood. One day he gets a call from this young man who was in jail for hurting his child. Hal says, “Don’t you remember how that hurt?” He said, “Yes, but I couldn’t stop myself.” Not every child who was abused becomes an abuser, but you can pretty much guarantee that every abuser was abused. With intervention, we can do a lot to avoid that by rewiring the brain.

Tell me the significance of the marbles and the butterflies at the CPC center.

The butterflies are a metaphor. When the caterpillar thought his life was over, he became a butterfly. I think of the CPC as a cocoon where children’s lives are changed so that they can soar and fly. We have a Pillar of Hope. The base is in the lobby of the Child Protection Center, and it goes all the way up to the second floor. When a child comes in for a forensic interview and medical examination, we are not allowed to talk to them, hug them, or even offer a glass of water if they’re thirsty. The reason being the attorneys will say their testimony was influenced. After all the interviews and exams have been completed, the child gets a marble.

That’s because child abuse is a secret, and the child thinks they’re the only one that is abused. So, they drop their marble in the Pillar of Hope where it is included with all the other marbles. That’s where the healing really begins because they know they’re not alone.

Given all the technology and the fast paced interactive social media that we are bombarded with, do you think it was easier to grow up in the Ozzie and Harriet days of the past?

One man talked to me lovingly about his children

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and then told me how horrendously he was abused as a child. I asked him how he was able to overcome that because I’m really interested in the 1 percent of abused children who don’t become abusers themselves. He said watching the Brady Bunch let him know that what was going on wasn’t what was supposed to be happening. That was a role model to him and what he modeled his life after. What worries me is that children today don’t have those role models on TV. The violence is constant today. The most violent thing we saw on TV was the Roadrunner. Kids now are so desensitized.

You are a very strong person. Still, it must be heartbreaking to see some of the things that are done to these children, yet you go on and still fight for them.

It’s my calling. One of the things we really need to agree on is the definition of child abuse. Let’s agree on the best practices of discipline. Let’s set a standard, and then we can cure it. If we don’t have a plan, we’re going to constantly be reacting when we need to be proactive.

Sarasota is a very philanthropic community.

It’s amazing. There are over 1,800 501(c)(3)s in this town and so many good causes. A lot of things can catch your eye, but a few capture your heart. Follow those. Philanthropy feels good. When you can spend money or time and make a difference in someone’s life, it feels awesome.

You were devastated by the incident of the little girl, Phoebe, who was thrown from the bridge in St. Petersburg by her father. Obviously the system failed the child and let her slip through the cracks.

It’s worse than that. The government just spent $22 million upgrading the system and hotline, and there scenesarasota.com

were multiple calls made to that hotline including the day before. But they let her slip through the cracks. It’s heartbreaking.

She should have been saved.

What is your final bit of advice to parents juggling schedules that make up their busy lives?

When you get home, take a deep breath and say, “I’m having a real hard day today, and I’m having trouble coping, so tell me about your day. It looks like you’ve had a hard day, too.” Before you do anything, sit and talk with each other.

Then maybe everybody will cut each other a little slack simply because you have some empathy for each other.

Many years from now, how would you finish this sentence? Child abuse was this thing…

I love what Hal Hedley says. We’re going to put the words child abuse in a bottle, and people will find the bottle 50 years from now and say, “Child abuse, what’s that?” They won’t know what it is because it doesn’t exist. That’s my dream.

Who are some of the everyday heroes that you look up to?

My husband for one is totally amazing. And everyone at the Child Protection Center. Doug Staley and the entire team. That’s why I’m there. I wouldn’t be doing what I’m doing if it wasn’t for them. And all these little survivors, they are my heroes.

ARTS & CULTURAL ALLIANCE OF SARASOTA COUNTY

ARTS AND CULTURE GUIDE COVER CONTEST The Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

The Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

2011|2012

2012|2013

arts

culture

guide

arts

culture

guide

The Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

2015 | 2016

arts

culture

guide

Published by SCENE Magazine

Published by SCENE Magazine

The Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

2013|2014

arts

culture

Will you be the winning artist

guide

Published by SCENE Magazine Published by SCENE Magazine

How do you want to be remembered?

I want to be remembered as someone who made a difference in the lives of children.

Local artists, including college and high school students, are invited to submit artwork representative of our vibrant arts and culture scene.

The winning selection will be used as the cover of the 2015/2016 Guide to Arts and Culture. Over 40,000 copies of the guide will be

If you would like to help children who are victims of abuse, call the Child Protection Center at 941.365.1277 and ask for the Development Department to discuss the best option for you. scenesarasota.com

distributed throughout the community in early October 2015. There is lots of recognition for the winning artist from SCENE Magazine as well as the Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County.

DEADLINE: July 1, 2015 Media & Submissions:

Digital entries only will be accepted via email no later than July 1 to the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County Inc. For guidelines and specs, contact Amanda Heisey at 941-365-5118 ext. 304 | aheisey@sarasotaarts.org.

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Blythe Danner A Kind Act

By Gus Mollasis

Blythe Danner’s parents raised her to be kind. I experienced her kindness firsthand when I met her with my girlfriend outside a New York theater after her performance of Suddenly Last Summer many years ago. Months later Ms. Danner sent her a note of kindly advice on the craft of acting for which they shared a mutual passion.

It was the kind of mentoring advice that can make a difference in the growth of an actress especially when it’s given so freely from someone as accomplished as this Emmy and Tony Award winning actress. When I got the chance to speak with her at this year’s Sarasota Film Festival, I came away thinking that she was not only a great actress, but she was, in fact, an even nicer human being. As we spoke of her family, accomplishments, losses, her Academy Award winning daughter, and what she still wants to accomplish in the arts, I came away feeling I had spoken to a first class performer and a one-of-kind lady.

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What is your mentoring advice to actresses pursuing their dreams on the stage and screen?

My advice is if you just can’t do anything else and if your passion is so great that you cannot even entertain the idea of doing anything else, then you must pursue your dream. You have to do it wholeheartedly with all the passion that you have and hopefully you will keep at it and attain the level of success and satisfaction that you can live with. But you must also be prepared for the great ups and downs that are there and be thick skinned and be ready for rejection. If you find that it isn’t for you, then you can go and open a pet store or something.

Was that similar motherly advice that you’ve given your daughter, Gwyneth Paltrow, growing up regarding acting?

How often do you two talk shop?

I never really gave her advice. She really never needed advice. She was always sort of independent and strong and knew just what she wanted. We’ve never really talked shop a lot. She has this natural deep well of talent that she can delve into and come forth with such beautiful performances. It astonishes me how easy it is for her. I’m hoping, as she gets older, that she acts scenesarasota.com

more and more. Right now it’s not as interesting to her as being a businesswoman.

I understand that you have some Sarasota roots.

My niece lives on Longboat Key. Paint me a picture of your upbringing in Philadelphia.

It was an idyllic childhood with beautiful talented parents who were gifted singers. They met singing actually at the Choral Arts Society. Both were very active in the community. I was so taken with how beautiful they were and the joy they got from singing. I think that I got my love of performing from them.

So, in essence, you got that acting or theater bug from your mom and dad.

Yes, I think so. And I have a very talented family. My brother is a violinmaker and my other brother is an opera singer and has performed at the Metropolitan Opera.

A family of artists.

I think pretty much so. Yes. Our family loves the arts and is very passionate about them.

What was the greatest thing you learned from your parents?

To be kind and generous of spirit. And to be activists in the community and help others. And to sing, sing, sing, and sing. (Laughs) There is something that happens when you’re singing. Endorphins are released similar to what happens to runners. I’ve acted a lot on stage and in films in my lifetime. I’ve loved the liberating feeling and freedom of being on stage singing and moving about.

I know that you’re receiving Oscar buzz for I’ll See You in My Dreams, which opens in May, because when I spoke to my mother on the phone, she said “Blythe is going to win an Oscar for that.” Tell me about this film and the buzz it’s receiving and what it would mean to you to be recognized for this work.

(Laughs) Oh no. No. No. That’s so silly. I have no idea how something like that starts. We happen to live in a society that likes to revel in hyperbole. Some very kind and mystifying person, mystifying to me anyway, some rather mad person came up with that. (Laughs) I can assure you that won’t be the case.

What do we learn from your performance as Carol and take away from this film I’ll See You in My Dreams?

Well, even when one has suffered a lot of loss, you can reengage with life and all kinds of good things can come from that. You mustn’t give up and sink into self-destructive modes of just collapsing. You just have to keep going and get out there and help people. There are so many ways to get involved with life. I read about so many retirees in Florida who get involved with helping the homeless or reading to kids in schools. What I like to mention, because April was Oral Cancer Awareness Month and it was the disease my husband (Bruce Paltrow) sucscenesarasota.com

cumbed to, that it’s very important to get screened and to go to oralcancer.org. There you’ll find out where to go for free screenings. Oral cancer is one of the few cancers that hasn’t stabilized and continues to climb at an epidemic rate, which is very terrifying. I encourage young people to get inoculated and learn more about this disease.

Was preparing for this role any harder for you in light of losing your husband many years ago?

No, actually it was easier because when you get to be my age you call on everything in your life that’s gone before you.

Bruce is so ever present in my life and my memories, and he will always strike a major chord in my life and my children’s lives. So, the emotions are just there of dealing with the joy of memories as well as the sadness of missing him.

Was there a mentor who made a big difference in your life regarding your education or becoming an actor?

There were a few wonderful teachers. I sing a little jazz in this movie, and there was a man who taught me at George School, which is a Quaker school I attended in Pennsylvania.

There was a wonderful drama teacher there, and I had a great drama teacher at Bard College. I have been very fortunate and would say that I have had five or six mentors. I was lucky.

First thing that comes to your mind: The Great Santini and working with Robert Duvall.

The best.

Working with Robert De Niro.

The dearest.

Working with Woody Allen on Husbands and Wives.

Fascinating enigma.

Working with Peter Falk and John Cassavetes.

Both of them, a hoot. They made me laugh.

Finish the following sentences: I love acting because…

It gives me tremendous satisfaction and liberation. It sets me free.

I love being a mother because…

My children take over.

A great actress must always…

Have a very thick skin.

What artistic goals do you still want to accomplish?

I would like to drop dead on stage. I would like to be on the stage acting, take my final call, my final bow and drop dead.

How do you want to be remembered?

I think I want to be remembered as being tenacious.

May 2015

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Full Steam Ahead at Saint Stephen’s Still trending worldwide, S.T.E.A.M.-based learning has

Upper and Middle School students can participate in courses

surpassed its earlier S.T.E.M. iteration in both importance and

focusing on both engineering design and problem-solving.

acceptance. The original acronym, coined in the 1990s, called

Physics students pivot from concrete theory underlying a lesson,

for a renewed emphasis on in-depth teaching of subjects

to viewing science “as a window into the world’s processes,”

involving science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

building their own Rube Goldberg machines modeling simple

The addition of the letter “A” reflects the more recent

harmonic motion found in the movement of a bird’s wings.

inclusion of “the Arts” into the equation (no pun intended),

Computer science is offered at all levels, from Introductory to

a concept now almost universally embraced by educators.

Advanced, including independent study options. Middle School

However, the S.T.E.A.M. initiative’s tapping into students’

journalism and videography classes facilitate student mastery of

creativity

to

innovative enhanced

promote

thinking

and

problem-solving

skills is business as usual at Saint

Stephen’s

Episcopal

School in Bradenton. Lower School students are routinely

The umbrella of S.T.E.A.M. at Saint Stephen’s introduces students to exciting fields and careers requiring analytical thinking skills, while dynamically connecting academic disciplines historically regarded as separate.

technology applications used to produce, edit and publish outstanding

art,

film

and

writing projects. Seventh and eighth graders also participate in

science-related

design

challenges using their iPads,

engaged by their teachers in academic lessons and creative

lasers, fiber optics and Vernier probes. (SSES students in grades

play involving tinkering, designing and building with digital

6-12 have iPads in conjunction with the School’s 1-1 iPad

tools and sustainable art supplies. Integrated study throughout

Initiative; younger students learn iPad skills on school-owned

the older grades promotes collaboration and original ideas,

devices.)

with the arts regularly informing both scientific study and 21st century learning skills taught across the School’s four

The Intermediate School’s sixth grade Introduction to Technology

Divisions. Saint Stephen’s faculty members bring their passions

class has students explore a variety of computer applications on

to the classroom daily, creating an unparalleled combination

their iPads, expanding their familiarity with software/hardware,

of language, technological know-how, scientific concepts and

the Internet, code design and Microsoft Office tools. In turn,

observations of daily life that never fail to inspire.

these same students incorporate artistic vision and design in

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building and testing structures made out of pasta, analyzing basic

and creative thinking across disciplines, versus a call to

architecture elements during the process. Yet another routine

action. The School has always sought to reflect the more

exercise finds eager learners performing reverse-engineering of

human, artistic side of today’s technological world in hopes of

electronic equipment, revealing individual component functions

teaching students that they are a part of “something greater,”

and allowing for better understanding of the science and math

and the importance of their continually seeking to discover

behind the equipment’s origins.

their roles in making the world a little better than how they found it. S.T.E.A.M. simply fuels their discovery!

Saint Stephen’s 2014-15 School-wide theme of S.T.E.A.M. AHEAD is a marvelous affirmation of long-established

For more information about Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School

lessons, labs and learning activities that promote innovative

call 941.746.2121 or email saintstephen@saintstephens.org.

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May 2015

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EDUCATION

Education Matters

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

Sarasota Film Festival’s Film Academy “Filmmaking is a chance to live many lifetimes.”

– Robert Altman, director of MASH, The Player, and Gosford Park

Charlie Ann Syprett, the Sarasota Film Festival’s Development Director, is excited — let’s be honest, it’s more like super excited — about the new SFF Film Academy. Syprett has long been a film aficionado, and after retiring from a law firm, she got involved with community nonprofits and eventually reunited with former law partner Judge Charles Williams via SFF. “Watching the student reactions to his film made me realize the incredible ability film has to educate and inspire the next generation,” Syprett says about the special screening of Judge William’s film Through the Tunnel that she helped set up for 400 kids. They don’t even realize that it’s so much more than entertainment,

its 100th anniversary. SFF hired Samuel Curtis, a Florida State

she says. And that’s an amazing thing.

University film school graduate who had a recent film in SFF, to serve as its Director of Education and help the students out. And

But helping the Sarasota Film Festival with its ongoing outreach

with the guidance of student advisor and production consultant,

and education programs wasn’t enough. Syprett was eager

Judge Williams, the students got to work on learning about local

to replicate the success of the Law Academy at Booker High

residents, Booker students, Sarasota’s African-American leaders,

School that she helped found along with other members of

and the history of their own community. “I learned so much

the Sarasota Bar Association Diversity Committee. Supported

more than what I’d be taught in any text,” says Turner.

through a partnership with the Sarasota County Bar Association, students participating in the Law Academy receive curric-

“At the time, there were all sorts of celebratory events being

ulum materials, legal expertise, and hands-on experiences such

planned by the adults in Newtown,” says Syprett, “but the kids

as a mock trial before a real judge in a new $30,000 courtroom

weren’t given a voice. Researching and working on this film pro-

provided by donations from the Diversity Committee, local law

vided them a chance to tell their own story, to re-examine the

firms, the City of Sarasota’s Newtown Community Redevel-

past, study the present, and really think about the future of New-

opment Act Advisory Board, and local individuals. “Why not

town from their perspective.” That perspective is revealed in the

set up a similar hands-on educational experience with film?”

complete documentary entitled Newtown at 100: A Glimpse

Syprett and others at SFF wondered.

Through Our Eyes, which premiered at the Sarasota Opera House in April. To add to the celebration, the Booker High School Gospel

That idea started to come to fruition through a pilot program

Choir led by Lem Andrews performed along with Booker alum

where five hand-selected students at Booker High School —

and American Idol finalist Syesha Mercado. Booker alum and cur-

Kiara Mitchell, Jonathan Buckley, Wade Turner, Teithis Miller,

rent NFL player Sam Shields also attended the screening.

and Deja DuBose — spent last summer figuring out how movies were made, and then began the process of putting together a

Booker High School principal Dr. Rachel Shelley believes her

documentary on the history of Newtown, which is celebrating

school is the right place for a film academy like this one to thrive.

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It’s a visual and performing arts school, after all, and film is a

and visual storytelling, which shows them how to take events

powerful combination of those two forces. Plus “our proximity to

and transform them into powerful narratives. Then the students

both Ringling College and the Sarasota Film Festival headquar-

learn how to take those narratives and present them through

ters makes for feasible partnerships among the three entities,”

the medium of film. Not every student who goes through the

she explains, adding that “our $60 million rebuild included a

program will be the next Steven Spielberg, Spike Lee, or Judge

state-of-the-art film studio with private editing suites. Everything

Williams. But the things they learn such as respect, self-confi-

about our school makes it perfect for a Film Academy.”

dence, reliability, teamwork, and effective communication, all transfer easily into the real world no matter the career path.

But it’s more than those things. It’s the unique experience

Syprett is especially proud that the Film Academy continues

the Film Academy offers that Shelley values for her students.

to focus on projects about social issues relevant to our area.

“In a word, it means ‘opportunity.’ And this has to do with

The next subject that these students are turning their attention

art and career opportunities. They get to express themselves

toward? A documentary on homelessness in Sarasota.

through an art that is technologically rich and commercially popular.” She says “film offers the tie-in of literacy standards

“This would not have happened without the visionary leader-

in a meaningful way, offering students the ability to apply

ship, guidance, and support from the SFF Board of Directors

reading, writing, speaking, and listening standards in a re-

and the shared passion and generosity of Norbert Donelly and

al-world environment. As an administrator, it’s impossible

the Gulf Coast Community Foundation. Mr. Donelly and Gulf

not to get excited about the real-world skills, like critical

Coast provided the necessary funding,” says Syprett, “and board

thinking, creative problem solving, and collaboration that

members Mark Famiglio, Sharyn Weiner, and Wanda Rayle-Lib-

such a program helps to develop.”

by, to name just a few. Plus David Shapiro, the lawyer on board, who is so encouraging and has a sincere interest in film himself,

The rousing success of the Newtown documentary pilot pro-

as well as Wanda and her husband, Harold, who established a

gram has motivated generous patrons to fund the Film Acad-

scholarship program at Booker where five students will receive

emy on a long-term basis, so the program seems here to stay.

a $1,000 scholarship each year. As you can see, the Film Acad-

Syprett says that “the plan is to work with every local resource

emy is the culmination of a communal effort.”

— colleges, people, programs — so that every student who goes through the entire three-year curriculum is prepared

From the community support and growing momentum, it’s

for any college program in the nation.” Indeed, they’re even

clear that SFF’s Film Academy is yet another feather in the

talking with State College of Florida to explore the viability of

cap of one of our area’s most important economic, educa-

earning college credit for some of the work done within the

tional, and cultural nonprofits. For more information about

Film Academy.

the Sarasota Film Festival’s outreach and education efforts, visit sarasotafilmfestival.com or call (941) 364-9514. For

Like the Law Academy, it’s a rigorous three-year, progressive

more information on the Newtown at 100 documentary, visit:

program where students learn the fundamentals of filmmaking

newtown100.sarasotafilmfestival.com/newtown.

scenesarasota.com

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SOCIAL

Behind the Scene

Society Maven Debbi Benedict Gives the Latest Scoop My summer travel plans are always quite simple – load up the car and drive up the interstate to our farm in Vermontville, Michigan, a town of 700 hearty, rural souls where my husband and I grew up. We are truly simple folk and not very adventurous, unlike most Sarasotans who travel to the far reaches of the earth. We are having our 40th wedding anniversary while we are there, so who knows? Maybe we will do something wild like drive up to Northern Michigan, which is what my husband wants to do. I am sure he would love to go camping, which I assure you, we will not be doing, though when I was a junior in high school (1973-74), my best friend, Shelley, and I bought a tent together and our parents actually allowed us to go off on several camping trips alone AND we had boyfriends! Believe me, it was not at all about communing with Mother Nature. But alas, that is another story for another time…

The Mei family, headed by Denise and Roberto Mei, will be all over the place this summer! First of all, Denise and Roberto are off to Vegas Uncorked were they will be seeing Emeril Live, and several other cooking shows, along with the Grand Tasting. Daughter, Lea, and James Buchanan will be joining them. Then Denise and Lea are going to Chicago to do a fun girls trip with Denise’s best friend from New York City and in Denise’s words, they will “shop until they drop”! Later on, Roberto and Denise will be doing a three-week trip to Italy. They will see Roberto’s family in Rome and Pitigliano, along with visiting the northern part of Italy, Piedmont and other wine areas. Hmmm, I wonder if we will be seeing new menu items at Café Baci after the trip?

Suttons Bay, Michigan, holds special significance to Janet Walter. She makes the jaunt every year with husband, Steve, and daughters, Lucy and Reagan, and dogs, Buck and Beau. Their condo there is her father’s family’s place at the Suttons Bay Yacht Club. The girls go to three weeks of summer camp, which is the same camp Janet attended as a little girl and was counselor there during her teen years. Janet and Steve then have time to enjoy boating, fishing, horseback riding, shopping, and dining in the surrounding towns of Leland, Glen Arbor, and Traverse City. Janet’s father grew up in Glen Arbor and her grandfather was a developer.

Several of his projects were The Homestead Resort, The Leelanau School, and Sugarloaf Ski Range. A lot of family history in the area! They also do an annual family trip in Florida to Useppa Island and Boca Grande.

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They are members at the Useppa Island Club, so they stay in a cottage on the island, and then take their boat to the surrounding islands of Boca Grande. Steve and Janet were married at the Gasparilla Inn in 1998, so it holds special meaning for them. Janet and her daughters make an annual trip to the Lily Pulitzer store and always go to The Temptation restaurant, 3rd Street Cafe and the Pink Elephant restaurant, and they also like to stop and feed the goats at Whidden’s Marina and grab a cupcake at Tipsy Cake Company. True Florida girls, with a little Midwest thrown in for good measure!

A highlight of Gerri Aaron and Marvin Albert’s summer travels will be scooting up to Maine to attend the wedding of Cheryl Losey, first harpist of the Sarasota Orchestra and Abraham Feder, first cellist at the Sarasota Orchestra, who is on leave this year. The wedding will be in beautiful Camden, Maine. Incidentally, did you know Cheryl is from Harpswell, Maine?

Very fitting, don’t you think? Gerri and Marvin will also be going to Philadelphia and then to Long Beach Island where they have an annual reunion with her children and grandchildren.

Terri and Michael Klauber are joining Ryan Hilton of Admiral Travel to return to South Africa and lead more than 40 travelers on yet another adventure-of-alifetime. This year, they’ll be leading two groups on three separate legs of these exclusive adventures. Personally, she and Michael are excited to visit Botswana for the first time before traveling onto Londolozi Game Reserve for safari drives.

Then on to Cape Town for dining at some of the world’s best restaurants and sipping their way through the Cape Winelands with their Gulf Coast Connoisseur Club “World Travelers”. They can’t wait to visit the Hazyview Digital Learning Center, which is not far from Londolozi Game Reserve. The past few years, Terri and Michael have loved seeing the legacy of the All Heart Fund, established at the school in honor of local teen, Leanna Knopik, daughter of Steve and Beth Knopik, who passed away unexpectedly almost three years ago. The Klaubers have been touched by the generosity of scenesarasota.com

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so many friends in Sarasota who have helped support the All Heart Fund and this important school in South Africa.

Going to South Africa was “incredible”, says Terri Vitale. She and her husband, Dr. Christopher Sforzo, and their children, along with her sister’s family stayed in Cape Town where the children learned about apartheid. They also went cage diving with the Great White Sharks and hiked in Knysna overlooking the Indian Ocean. The highlight though, was the three-day and three-night safari they did in Kruger National Park. They saw a cheetah on a hunt, a male lion make a kill, a pride of female lions, rhinos, and a baby elephant nursing on its mother.

Coming up, they are going to Northern California as they always do, as the boys/ men do a big hike and camping trip.

This year it will be in Yosemite. Kiawah Island in South Carolina will play a part in their summer where they like to bike on the beach and collect shells. The balance of their travel is centered on their kids and their respective sports, as most families’ are! The kids are involved in many competitive sports, such as tennis, lacrosse, baseball, and basketball that will require trips to Boston and New York City. Whew! What adventures!

Wherever Scott Anderson goes, fun is sure to follow! He’ll be cruising the Caribbean, hoping for no hurricanes, with his partner of 15 years, Michael Scott and his niece, Clevelander (or is it Clevelandite?) Amanda Spaulding Reeder, and her husband Billy, as they are celebrating their fifth wedding anniversary and Scott wants to celebrate with her. Scott and Michael are also gathering friends Renee Hamad and Hillary Steele together for a trip to Cuba.

Oh my, I can see it now! Scott told me that Hillary wants to visit the voodoo people in the mountains. Hillary says that they are visiting a renowned fortuneteller, but whatever. I think voodoo people sound much more interesting! And most exciting to Scott, who is a huge “family” person, this summer his parents, John and Jeanne Hruby Anderson, will be celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary, also in scenesarasota.com

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Cleveland, so he will most definitely be Cleveland-bound.

Speaking of Hillary Steele, in addition to traveling to Cuba, she is proud to be joining the Sarasota Ballet, of which she is board president, in Becket, Massachusetts, at Jacob’s Pillow to watch the ballet perform. A private plane is taking eight of them up for opening night.

I have been to the famous Jacob’s Pillow before and it is my absolutely favorite place in the Berkshires. Hillary says there’s a large contingency from Sarasota who have summerhouses or are coming in to watch the ballet company, so it should be quite a party!

Celebrating their 15th wedding anniversary this year, Wayne and Debbie Seitl are trekking to California for a trip that will include a Napa Valley wine country tour with private wine tastings and the Silver Oak launch party, all of which Debbie won during a live auction at Wine, Women, and Shoes. They’ll start their trip in Lake Tahoe, and also head down to Pebble Beach for a week so Wayne can check off each of those three golf courses from his bucket list! The couple will end up at the Ritz-Carlton in Half Moon Bay for a few nights before flying back to their beloved mountain retreat in North Carolina. Debbie shared with me that they had planned an entire trip like this in 2001, even booking tee times at Pebble Beach almost a year in advance, but chose to cancel the trip shortly after 9/11. They were going right before Thanksgiving that year, and could not handle the thought of leaving the kids for a two week trip after what had just happened, so they opted to cancel. They kept saying they would rebook it, but you know how those things go. Finally the auction package from Wine, Women, and Shoes spurred them into action to finish their dream trip.

In addition to their annual scalloping trip to Crystal River, Tom and Allison Beard Luzier will be escaping the heat of Sarasota for the refreshing air of Cashiers, North Carolina. Tom told me that Allison is threatening to make it an extended stay and work remotely from scenesarasota.com

the cabin, which means feet up in a comfy chair on the porch with her laptop and cell, and LuLu, their intrepid dachshund, snuggled up next to her. Meanwhile, son, Grant, will be busy under the watchful eyes of his grandparents, chasing donkeys in the pasture, riding the antique tractor, and playing fetch-it with their Labs down by the pond. Tom said he’ll steal away, too, at some point. Having perfected the art of standing absolutely still in the only spot by the house where cell service is the best, he will field calls and whatnot in between some R&R, and maybe a couple of golf lessons.

I have always wanted to attend a cooking school and that is just what Rebecca Donelson and her husband, Robert Blattberg, will be doing this summer at the Santa Fe Cooking School in New Mexico, where they will be learning to make tamale dishes.

After that they head up to their ranch outside Aspen for the rest of the summer going to rodeos and hiking, while also attending The Aspen Institute for The Aspen Ideas Festival and enjoying The Aspen Music Festival and Aspen FilmFest. Hmmm, sounds a lot like Sarasota, but only with less oxygen!

Sarah and George Pappas will spend lots of time in Europe this summer, traveling first to the Isle of Jersey (Channel Islands between England and France). Sarah tells me they’ll relax and take day trips to the French town of Saint-Malo and to the Isle of Sark, where no cars are allowed, only horse and buggies, just like Mackinac Island, Michigan! The Nazi’s occupied these sites and Sarah loves learning about WWII history. Former Sarasota School Superintendent Wilma Hamilton’s cousins will show George and Sarah around as they have lived on Jersey for 30 years. Then it’s on to London for 10 days where the couple will rent an apartment in the Sloane Square area. They will make it a true cultural visit by going to art museums and galleries, seeing plays, ballets, and operas almost every other night. They truly love London and plan on having a jolly good time!

“A trip of a lifetime” was what Judi Gallagher told me her trip to Israel with husband, Paul, was. They traveled with Embracing Our Differences and eight high school students recently. Judi shared that it was an amazing journey and Paul, who is a teacher, toured schools and sites with the students from the Co-existence clubs while Chef Judi shot TV segments. Next they will be heading to Chicago for both work and pleasure that includes dinner at the Purple Pig and The Girl and the Goat, followed by a few nights at a romantic inn in Michigan. Later it’s on to Houston for some time with their older son, daughter in law, and granddaughter, Sophie. Still in the planning stages is a trip to either southern Spain or perhaps Positano, Italy, along with Croatia.

Doesn’t it seem like just everyone is doing something fabulous?

Time to get those travel brochures out and get planning! Oh, Lord, I think I am really dating myself – travel brochures? Well, you know what I mean. Log on to TripAdvisor or whatever the young whippersnappers do now!

Until next time…TaTa! Debbi Benedict is SCENE’s society maven and Special Issues Director.

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

Old Florida Weddings a historic destination for weddings & events Ceremony and reception locations on Little Sarasota Bay at Bay Preserve and Historic Spanish Point

941-468-0611 oldfloridaweddings.com Photo: Jolanta Bremer of I am Art May 2015

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Social Historic Spanish Point’s Annual Luncheon It was a total blast to the past at Historic Spanish Point’s 1893 World Columbian Exposition-themed annual luncheon. The theme was set in honor of Bertha Palmer’s contribution to bringing women of all professions together in the Expo’s Women’s Building.

Proceeds aid its mission to preserve an important slice of Old Florida history. Photos by Cliff Roles

Renée Hamad, Kathy Coffey, Robyn Collins & Ann Moore

Pauline Joerger & Jennifer Rominiecki

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John Mason & Cornelia Matson

Jenni & Paul Hudson

Margaret Wise & Nora Johnson

scenesarasota.com

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Literary Scene

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

The Fallacy of the Calorie: Why the Modern Western Diet is Killing Us and How to Stop It I confess — I had a different book scheduled to review this month but

— what he shares is based on common sense and hard science.

then I saw this and couldn’t help my-

One of the biggest takeaways is

self. The title was catchy and the idea

hinted at in the title. Counting and

of it seemed more timely than a mys-

restricting calories isn’t a sound way

tery novel, no matter how good of a

to get in charge of our health. Few-

mystery it was. (You’ll see the low-

er calories does not necessarily equal

down on that mystery in a month or so

better health. It all has to do, Fenster

— no worries there!). So if you’re like

explains, with food quality. He takes

me, meaning one of the 70 percent of

a clear, no-nonsense approach to

Americans who are considered over-

modern wheat, processed vegetable

weight, then read on!

oils, and cholesterol. Ditch the low

This new book by Michael S. Fen-

fat, high chemically processed foods.

ster M.D., a cardiologist/chef, identifies

Admit that we’re hardwired to seek

how we’ve been eating poorly since the

out fat, sugar, and salt. And then read

Industrial Revolution. Our ancestors

what Fenster has to say and change

didn’t suffer from the all-too-common

your life today.

diseases that we do today. Cardiovas-

While this book has enough refer-

cular disease. ALS. Multiple sclerosis.

ences and endnotes to satisfy the most

Dementia. Diabetes. And Fenster sug-

stringent professors, the style is read-

gests it has everything to do with what

able enough for the average overweight

foods we put into our body. To be clear,

Joe (or Jane). And it’s not a diet book

he holds no punches, saying what the

so much as a manual for eating. Plus

FDA allows us to ingest daily is crimi-

his humorous style makes it lively and

nal. But he’s not some conspiracy nut

memorable reading.

For more information about The Fallacy of the Calorie (Koehler Books, softcover, 200 pages, $17.95) or the author, visit www.drmichaelfenster.com.

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scenesarasota.com

The Ladies of Managua: A Novel

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Eleni N. Gage’s third book follows three generations of Nicaraguan women who each know the struggles of love, sacrifice, and duty. Young Mariana Vazquez, an up and coming painter, returns to Nicaragua for her grandfather’s funeral. While there, she struggles with the worry that her mother has always loved Nicaragua more than her — she sent Mariana away to Miami at age seven after all — while her mother worries that Mariana will judge her for trying to keep her safe. Indeed, her mother is a former Sandinista-turned-politician who works to shape the social landscape of the new Nicaragua.

Making things interesting is the boyfriend Mariana hoped to get away from, Allen, who follows her there to try to repair things. Behind it all is Isabela, Mariana’s grandmother, whose husband’s death is the reason for everyone coming together again. Chapter by chapter, Gage shows the story — sometimes the exact same scenes — in a different character’s eyes to offer new perspectives on what really happened. And Gage takes us to a range of well-wrought settings.

The prim schoolgirl life in 1950s New Orleans. The deadly insurrection of 1970s Nicaragua. The bitter art scene of 2010 New York City.

This book is thoughtful and tender as it shows the lives of three intriguing women who each have their own private secrets to reveal.

For more information about The Ladies of Managua: A Novel (St. Martin’s Press, hardcover, 400 pages, $26.99) or the author, visit www.elenigage.com. scenesarasota.com

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May 2015

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Blackout: Annum Guard Book 2



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

 

  

     

 

 

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I never — repeat never — review book two of a series unless I’ve already read (and typically reviewed) book one.

But I did in this case. Why? Because South Florida author and University of Florida graduate Meredith McCardle’s book read so smoothly that I didn’t notice it was a book two until I was chapters into it and going strong. What can I say? I’m a sucker for time travel stories.

Amanda Obermann — code name Iris — is part of the secret organization Annum Guard, a group that goes back in time to alter history to improve the future.. When members of the Guard start going missing, Iris has to sort through the lies and deceit to uncover XP, the mysterious person at the heart of all the trouble.

Readers who like plot twists and big cliffhanger endings will find this book a real treat, and quite the tease for book three in the series. If you want to follow the action from the start, pick up The Eighth Guardian first.

For more information about Blackout: Annum Guard Book 2 (Skyscape, softcover, 351 pages, $9.99) or the author, visit www. meredithmccardle.com. scenesarasota.com

HEALTH MATTERS

Smiling Leads to Better Health and a Happier You

By Dr. Christine Koval, DMD Research tells us that smiling reduces stress and has long-term positive benefits for health and success. When we smile, it sets off a chain reaction that feeds through the muscles of the face, goes back into the brain, and releases serotonins and endorphins, which reinforces feelings of happiness and joy. So what might be getting in the way of someone’s smile?

For some, fear or a lack of financial resources may have kept them from the dentist or orthodontist when they were younger, leading to decay and damage Dr. Christine Koval, DMD, practices at Koval & Koval Dental Associates 2477 Stickney Point Road, Suite 216-A, Sarasota, FL 34231 drkoval@askdrkoval.com kovalandkoval.com

later on. It is also natural for teeth to yellow over time. Whatever the root causes, there are far too many people for whom their smile doesn’t reflect their inner personality. Even more serious are the negative health effects of a flawed smile or damaged teeth.

Cosmetic dentistry is the art of enhancing – rather than changing – a person’s appearance through various techniques applied to the teeth and gums. For some people, it’s an option to restore health to decayed or damaged teeth. For others, a younger and more attractive smile is a major component in achieving overall self-improvement and greater self-confidence. Some may be surprised to learn that cosmetic dentistry is not only done for cosmetic purposes. A poor bite can affect joints, facial muscles and even posture. I have helped many patients correct their bites, enhance chewing and digestion, and correct speech issues.

There have been numerous advancements made in the field of aesthetic dentistry in recent years. Digital x-rays reduce a patient’s exposure to radiation by 90 percent and can be viewed instantaneously at a greater quality than ever before. The materials to make crowns and veneers are more predictable, comfortable and efficient to work with – procedures that used to require multiple visits can now be performed in only one or two. They also look more like natural teeth than ever before.

Lasers have provided the greatest advances in dental care. They have reduced the need for profound anesthesia and greatly diminished post-treatment pain. Lasers can help modify an obtrusive or uneven gum line, and can be used to detect and treat decay. Low-level lasers are used to decrease pain and inflammation of TMJ. Lasers can be utilized to perform biopsies and other minor surgeries with little or no anesthesia, and no need for stitches.

The “right” cosmetic dentist should have an eye for aesthetics, extensive experience, a commitment to continuing education, access to the most current technology, and a passion for people. They should also be willing to listen to their patients, always keeping their health and smile goals foremost in their minds.

A dynamic smile says, “I like who I am.” Smiling is good for your health. I encourage anyone who is unhappy with their smile to seek the care of a qualified, experienced, and compassionate practitioner. Because when you enhance your smile, you enhance your life.

scenesarasota.com

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LOCALLY

NEWS SHAPING

OUR COMMUNITY SOUTHEASTERN GUIDE DOGS BREAKS GROUND ON $8.5 MILLION STUDENT CENTER

Southeastern Guide Dogs broke ground on the new $8.5 million Barpal–Hirst Student Center. The 30,000 square-foot facility is named for lead donors and Sarasota residents Margaret and Isaac Barpal and Keith G. Hirst and is being funded entirely by private donations. guidedogs.org

SARASOTA MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION RECEIVES NATIONAL AWARD

Foundation. The award, which All Faiths received for exhibiting outstanding participation and commitment in the foundation’s Recoding Organizational DNA initiative, will aid its work toward the goals outlined in the Marbut 12-point plan to address the homelessness issue in Sarasota. allfaithsfoodbank. org | thepattersonfoundation.org

MIND SPA INTEGRATIVE WELLNESS CENTER MOVES TO NEW LOCATION

Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation has received America’s Blood Centers Outstanding Humanitarian Service Award for its support of SunCoast Blood Bank. Since 2004, SMHF has contributed $404,102 to SCBB’s lifesaving mission. scbb.org, smhf.org

MindSpa Integrative Wellness Center has moved to the Ridgegate Center on Bee Ridge Road, which doubles the available space for 12 team members who provide clinical and spa services. Dr. George Rozelle launched MindSpa in 2004. MindSpa is also a VA-approved health provider so area veterans can benefit from the clinical and spa services available at MindSpa. mindspasarasota.com

GULF COAST LAUNCHES “STATE OF THE COMMUNITY” WEBSITE

SEASON OF SHARING CAMPAIGN REACHES $2 MILLION GOAL

A new website launched by Gulf Coast Community Foundation, GulfCoastIndicators.org, aims to measure critical aspects of the region’s economy and quality of life over the long term to help decision-makers monitor trends, identify emerging issues, and plan community investments. It will analyze and track 74 data points on topics including the economy, health, and education for Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties. gulfcoastcf.org

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS RECEIVES $26,000 IN GRANTS Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast has received grants totaling $26,190 to support youth programs from Bank of America Charitable Foundation, Staples Foundation, Weichel Family Fund and Beckstein Family Fund of Manatee Community Foundation, Venice Golf & County Club Community Foundation, and Bon Secours Southwest Florida Health Initiative. bbbsun.org

DOCTORS HOSPITAL OF SARASOTA BEGINS EXPANSION PROJECT Doctors Hospital of Sarasota has broken ground on emergency room and operating room expansion projects. These are the next phase of a planned $17 million renovation. doctorsofsarasota.com

ALL FAITHS FOOD BANK RECEIVES ESO AWARD FROM THE PATTERSON FOUNDATION All Faiths Food Bank has received an ESO (Engaging – System Centric – Outcomes) Award, a one-time gift from The Patterson

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The Community Foundation of Sarasota County’s and HeraldTribune Media Group’s annual Season of Sharing campaign reached the $2 million mark and funds helped 2,800 individuals in need to stay in their homes. The Patterson Foundation gave $100,000 for every $500,000 raised. cfsarasota.org

STEM EDUCATION SUCCESS IS CELEBRATED Gulf Coast Community Foundation recently celebrated the success of its STEMsmart initiative in Sarasota and Charlotte county schools. To date, more than $9.6 million in grants, donations, and in-kind support has been invested to improve science and math education through STEMsmart. The foundation’s direct investment has reached $3.3 million, while Gulf Coast donors have added nearly $2.2 million. gulfcoastcf.org

BRADENTON EDC ANNOUNCES 2015 OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS The Bradenton Area Economic Development Corp. (EDC) has announced its officers and directors for 2015. Officers include Chairman Mark Barnebey, Blalock Walters, and Chairman-Elect Michael Moschella, Hancock Bank. New members are Jamie Humphrey, Roskamp Institute; Heather Kasten, Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance; Todd Mathes, Benderson Development; Bob Rosinsky, Goodwill Manasota; David Sessions, Willis A. Smith Construction; Andy Stultz, Halfacre Construction; Doug Wagner, Manatee Technical College; and Nathan Kragt, ZNS Engineering.

A complete list of officers and board members is online. thinkbradentonarea.com scenesarasota.com

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