May 2022 by SARASOTA SCENE Magazine

Market Trends

Highest Sales Top Agents & Offices

Florida House Sustainable Living in Action

Film Fest Wrap Up

Sarasota Orchestra’s SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL Campaign Against

CHILDHOOD SUMMER HUNGER

scenesarasota.com

REAL ESTATE POWERHOUSE The Local & Global Impact of Michael Saunders & Company

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contents•features

66 57 50

REAL ESTATE POWERHOUSE The Local & Global Impact

SARASOTA ORCHESTRA’S

of Michael Saunders & Company

SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL

By Sylvia Whitman

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

sold! An Annual Snapshot of

High-End Real Estate Sales

A Feast for the Ears:

Access for Everyone at the manatee performing arts center By Lisa Codianne Fowler

Sustainable Living in Action Southface Sarasota at the Florida House By Ryan G. Van Cleave

On the Cover

2022 sarasota film festival wrap-up By Gus Mollasis

Michael Saunders and Drayton Saunders photographed by Barbara Banks.

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

Artistry. Passion. Perfection. For over 30 years, John Cannon has designed and built homes for families just like yours throughout Florida’s west coast. When you choose John Cannon Homes, you are selecting an award-winning team with the single goal of creating your home just as you envisioned. Build a home that’s customized for you, your family and your lifestyle. Build with John Cannon Homes. Call 941 361.1300 for your private tour of our Corporate Offices and Design Center today. www.johncannonhomes.com

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contents•departments

• socialscene • 20

THE LIST

Mother’s Day

party pics

By Gina Liga

Sarasota Opera Gala

Children First Fairytale Ball

Sarasota Orchestra Brunch

JFED Women’s Day Luncheon

Paws on the Dance Floor

SMHF Women in Medicine

Pour for a Cure

SPARCC on the Runway

Sarasota Garden Club’s Gardens in Paradise

44 the find

May Events Calendar

• insider •

USFSM HospitaBull JoshProvides Interactive Dinner

80 spotlight Building a Life & Supporting a Legacy: Home Builder CEO David C. Hunihan By Carol Brzozowski

94 art scene Visual Arts Calendar

96 MEET THE ARTIST Vicki Chelf

97 literary Scene The Power of Two:

FST’s Commitment to Kids: The Children’s Theatre

Writing Sci-Fi, Fantasy,

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

& Horror for Dummies

The Pathway to Ending Hunger Keith Monda and Veronica Brady By Ryan G. Van Cleave

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

Performing Arts Calendar

Local Writers Partner on

with All Faiths Food Bank

92 BEST SEATS

ed matters

• philanthropy • 46

• a r t s + c ult ur e •

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

Be Informed Be Entertained Be SCENE scenesarasota.com

f r o m t h e • pu b l i s h e r t’s official! The U.S. News and World Report yet again voted Sarasota the best region in the country in which to retire. With this comes droves of new visitors, snowbirds, permanent residents, and updates to the community. So, while the influx of new people is at an all-time high, departures, even snowbirds heading home, are at an all-time low. It also means that we will, like many other parts of the country, maintain a hot real estate market. We take time in this issue to look at what brings people to the Suncoast, and specifically to the Sarasota/Manatee County communities. We know that the weather is great, the water is close, and we feature first-class recreational, cultural, and entertainment amenities. Our renowned Sarasota Orchestra will be delivering wonderful performances this summer. The Manatee Performing Arts Center continually makes the arts as accessible as possible to all lovers of the arts. Florida Studio Theatre provides top-tier educational outreach programs for our youth. Plus, while we recognize that we are blessed to be in this community, programs provided by philanthropic organizations such as All Faiths Food Bank are still essential in solving what is called children’s out of school summer hunger. In terms of the ever-changing real estate market, investments in eco-friendly building are now becoming the norm, and sustainable living has a broad meaning that includes building products, designs, and energy efficient solutions. This is not to mention that community sustainability provides for the health and wellbeing of our environment, our bodies, and our cultural souls. Part of this new eco-friendly mindset that I’ve noticed has been an uptick in e-bikes and VEO bikes continually growing around the area. Although they’ve added a modern touch to our constantly expanding region, they have also added to the heightened traffic in our day-to-day life (I am sure I am not the only one who’s noticed that their commute is becoming incrementally longer!). Among one of the newly updated features of our area is the Legacy Trail, which has completed its northern segment ahead of schedule. The Legacy Trail is a Sarasota gem which has attracted the attention of locals, tourists, snowbirds, and new permanent Sarasotans alike. As someone who regularly cycles along the trail, I can say it is no exception to our influx of traffic. It is wonderful to see so many people out enjoying the trail. However, with this new influx, there are certain matters of etiquette that may be getting lost among the addition of e-bike travelers and groups of peddle power cyclists. I am an advanced road bike enthusiast who can get up to an average speed of 24mph. Yet I, and others like me, keep the speed down to 15mph or less

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

H JOHN KNOWLES, PUBLISHER john@scenesarasota.com

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when on the trail depending on the density of users. I have at times been passed by an e-bike traveling much faster, which is fine as long as they let me know they are coming up behind me. But few, if any, give the recommended “Left side!” warning as they pass. These new groups present a bit of an interaction challenge. I recently read an opinion piece in the Sarasota Herald Tribune which pointed out that one may encounter, “…Tour de France-wannabe cyclists who speed along the trail in groups.” I have faced very few of these aggressive cyclists myself, but my disappointment comes from encountering groups of e-bike riders who seem blissfully unaware of other users, including dog walkers, runners, and other cyclists. Often you encounter them three or more abreast and conversational. Several times I have come up on them and made myself known, saying “Passing on your left!” only to be ignored. This is an accident waiting to happen, especially since you can quickly be hindered by oncoming traffic. While I have no problem letting ill-mannered cyclists and e-bikers know that they should share the trail, many do feel too intimidated to say anything and might eventually cease their use of the trail altogether—or worse, get hurt because of it. While I don’t think e-bikes should be banned from the Legacy Trail altogether, I do believe that there must be a discussion on how to properly allow everyone to inhabit the Trail in a way that creates ease-of-use, safety, and enjoyment for all. A new set of signs specifically for e-bikers, for instance. This being said, I’m sure those who ride regularly are following the rules, and the problem may simply be the occasional user or group of visitors out for a couple hours of enjoyment. And why not? We do live in a beautiful part of the country. Courtesy and a measure of etiquette go a long way to enjoying our Sarasota gem. E-bikes are a reality that is new to the trail. Hopefully common consideration is a tried-and-true way of living in this vibrant community.

Elegant Global Dining

I hope to see you out enjoying the Scene, whether at a park, at the beach, at the theater, or on the trail, but basking in our wonderful community.

481GOURMETSARASOTA.COM Open for Dinner Tuesday – Sunday Reservations Suggested Call 941.362.0400 or find us on OpenTable.com 481 N Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL 16

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

H JOHN KNOWLES, PUBLISHER john@scenesarasota.com

Locally Owned and Operated Since 1957

E MAGAZ

65 YEARS

DED 19

Vol. 65 No. 5

Publisher/Executive Editor H John Knowles Strategic Partnerships Julie A. Milton Executive Creative Director Darcy Kelly–Laviolette Digital Media & Editorial Content Coordinator Gina Liga Distribution Mike Straffin Accounting Sally A. Bailey Advertising Enquiries Paul McNamara Call/Text 917.751.6506 | paul@scenesarasota.com

Perfect for those times when you don’t want or have time to cook but still crave something delicious. Morton’s kitchen offers an amazing array of gourmet entrees and comfort foods, all prepared from scratch and packaged to go. Save time, money and effort while savoring the city’s best take-out, hands down. Don’t miss our huge selection of freshly made salads too!

Tom Garriott Call/Text 317.797.8135 | tom@scenesarasota.com Sharon Castellano Call/Text 203.984.7577 | sharon@scenesarasota.com Contributing Writers Ryan G. Van Cleave Sylvia Whitman Carol Brzozowski Lisa Codianne Fowler Gus Mollasis Contributing & Social Photographer Nancy Guth Contributing Photographer Cliff Roles 1834 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.365.1119 | Fax: 941.954.5067 | scenesarasota.com

Serving the Sarasota area for over 50 years Historic Southside Village 1924 South Osprey Ave. Sarasota ∙ (941) 955-9856 MortonsMarket.com 18

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

Subscribe at scenesarasota.com/magazine/shop H John Knowles LLC, dba SCENE Magazine publishes 12 issues a year. Address editorial, advertising and circulation correspondence to the above address. Sufficient return postage and self–addressed, stamped envelope must accompany all manuscripts, artwork 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.

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thelist

• socialscene •

• scenesponsored •

MAY 2022 EVENTS CALENDAR

1–10

SARASOTA BALLET CRYSTAL GALA Performance by the Sarasota Ballet, dinner by Michael’s On East, desserts and dancing in Five Points Park. Sarasota Opera House | sarasotaballet.org

RINGLING BY THE BAY Featuring live music and dancing on the Bolger Campiello. Food and drinks available for purchase. Ringling Museum Grounds | ringling.org

SUCCULENT SCIENCE & TEQUILA TASTING AT SELBY GARDENS Botany and beverages meet in the first installment of a new series called “Noshing in Nature”. Christopher Elenstar will lead a dialogue on agave, cacti, and other succulents with tequila experts from award-winning distillery Hiatus Tequila. Downtown Sarasota Campus | Selby.org 20

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

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• socialscene •

Lalo—Fabulous Arts & Music Fest

SARASOTA MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT

The 20th annual golf tournament benefiting Physician’s Endowment at SMH. The event provides continuing education for health system staff and gives them the opportunity to earn new certifications and update existing credentials. Laurel Oak Country Club | smhf.org

17TH ANNUAL DICK VITALE GALA

The mission of the Dick Vitale Gala is to raise funds for premiere pediatric cancer research across the nation, while simultaneously promoting awareness of pediatric cancer. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota | dickvitaleonline.com 22

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

9–15

3 32 ANNUAL GIRLS INC. CELEBRATION LUNCHEON Enjoy boutique shopping and a delicious luncheon. Sarasota Municipal Auditorium | girlsincsrq.org ND

7 SIESTA KEY SAND SCULPTURE CONTEST Bring your pail, sunglasses, shovel and creativity to this annual event on the beach. Siesta Key Beach | escape-to-sarasota.com

7 24TH ANNUAL CORVETTES ON THE CIRCLE CAR SHOW Spend the day viewing over 150 models of Corvettes from 1953 to 2022. St. Armands Circle | starmandscircleassoc.com

FORKS AND CORKS The ultimate event for foodies and wine connoisseurs! Featuring winemaker events, upscale dinners, casual tastings and more. Various Locations | eatlikealocal.com

12–14 FABULOUS ARTS & MUSIC FESTIVAL (FORMERLY HARVEY MILK FESTIVAL) A variety of music, art, theater and film events. Rosemary District, Sarasota | fabaf.org

14 FOOD TRUCKS, TUNES & BLUES Over 20 food trucks, live bands, local craft beer, wine and seltzer. Fruitville Grove | fruitvillegrovefarm.com

• socialscene •

15 SELBY GARDENS MUSIC SERIES With live music form Halie Loren, and everything from classical, folk, country, latin, jazz, soul and more. Historic Spanish Point | selby.org

15–16

SIESTA KEY VOLLEYBALL CLASSIC Fun and sun in the sand with some great volleyball action. Free spectator admission. Siesta Key Beach | facebook.com/digthebeach Stock up on alentine’s20 Day looks on & Company Eyewear! DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR SCHOLARSHIP & AWARDS GALA Hosted by the MLK Celebration Committee honoring our community’s youth. Selby Gardens Downtown Campus | selby.org

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MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

• socialscene •

COMING SOON

HAMLET MAY 13-29

MAY 20-29

JUN 20-26

TICKETS | VeniceTheatre.org 20–22 SARASOTA SHRIMP & MUSIC FESTIVAL Fresh seafood, live music, and arts/ crafts marketplace. JD Hamel Park | zapplication.org

21 SARASOTA INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL Everyone over the age of 12 is invited to participate. Boats, life vests, paddles and coaches are provided. Various race distances. Beer tents and food trucks onsite. Nathan Benderson Park | nathanbendersonpark.com

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

• socialscene •

22 DIVERSITY: THE VOICES OF SARASOTA MOTOWN PERFORMANCE Celebrate the sounds of Motown, with songs by Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, The Four Tops, Smoky Robinson and more. David Cohen Hal, Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center | diversitysarasota.org

22 TRIBUTE TO HEROES BLOCK PARTY & PARADE Support our local veterans and heroes with a parade filled with bands, choir groups, dance teams, floats, bikes and more. Main Street, Lakewood Ranch | lakewoodranch.com/events

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

ASOLO REP STARRY NIGHT DINNER - KNOXVILLE Experience an exclusive dinner at a beautiful location themed to the production of Knoxville. Fine wines and exquisite foods by Michael’s On East and exciting entertainment by Asolo Rep performers. Private Sarasota Home | asolorep.org

23 SIESTA KEY CHAMBER GOLF TOURNAMENT A unique opportunity for chamber members and guests to play a round of golf on a private , champion-style course. Complimentary breakfast, shotgun start and an awards luncheon immediately following. TPC Prestancia | tpcprestancia.com

• socialscene •

TUMMY TUCKS | BREAST LIFT | ARM & THIGH LIFTS | COOLSCULPTING

OPTIMIZE YOU

FAT GRAFTING | BODY SCULPTING | BREAST AUGMENTATION | LIPOSUCTION

Alissa M. Shulman M.D., F.A.C.S.

BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON

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28 SNOOK ADAMS KIDS DAY Bring the kids and celebrate the end of the school year. Free hot dogs, pizza and drinks. Lots of games, prizes and fun for all ages. Holmes Beach City Field | escape-to-sarasota.com

28 PATRIOTIC POPS & FIREWORKS Venice Symphony Music Director Troy Quinn has programmed an unbeatable concert of American music, patriotic songs and a tribute to our armed forces. CoolToday Park | cooltoday.com

FRAMELESS EXPERTS Visit Our New Showroom Today for a

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Consultation & Estimate V ISIT SCE NESAR AS OTA .COM To submit your event for consideration, please send information to scenemagazine@scenesarasota.com

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Home of the Glass & Mirror Specialists MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

• socialscene •

upcomingevents

4420 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941.260.8905 www.shellysgiftandchristmasboutique.com Monday - Saturday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

THANKS TO YOU...

The Exchange has been a proud supporter of the arts of our community since 1962.

Find your joy Sarasota’s #1 consignment shop    

Find your joy Sarasota’s #1 consignment shop

The joy of shopping The joy of giving The joy of recycling The joy of supporting students and the arts in our community

OP H S W O N AT ONLINEEX.COM

TAW SARASckO-up in Store Pi

DONATE SHOP CONSIGN VOLUNTEER

This purchase helped support 23 Art Organizations & 22 Students during fiscal year 2019-2020

539 S. ORANGE | 941-955-7859 | OPEN MON-FRI 9-4 & SAT 10-4 | www.sarasotawex.com 28

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

JUNE 1-14 | Savor Sarasota Restaurant Week Summer never tasted so good! Home to award-winning legendary restaurants, there is no better time to explore all the culinary world has to offer. Dozens of local restaurants feature pre-fixe multi-course lunch and dinner menus for $20 and $35 per person. Various Locations | visitsarasota. com/savor-sarasota2022 JUNE 9-14 | US Rowing SE Youth National Championships The championship serves as the premier youth rowing event in the United States with approximately 1,500 athletes competing in more than 350 crews, representing some 150 teams from across the country – all vying for national titles in 18 boat classes. Nathan Benderson Park | nathanbendersonpark.org JUNE 11 | St. Armands Craft Festival & Sidewalk Sale Guests enjoy works from over 175 artisans and special sales from the Circle shops. St. Armands Circle | starmandscircleassoc.com

• socialscene •

Richard Russell

Committee Members

partypics SARASOTA OPERA GALA The 2022 Sarasota Opera Gala celebrated Maestro Victor DeRenzi’s 40th Season as Artistic Director. The festivities began with a lively reception and then continued into the William E. Schmidt Opera Theatre for a Jubilee Concert filled with arias and heartfelt remembrances of a career that changed the face of opera on the Suncoast. Curtis Jordan & Paige Petersen

Anna Mandina, Lisa Chavez, Jonathan Burton, Joshua Benaim & Kevin Short

Maestro DeRenzi & Stephanie Sundine DeRenzi with Baton Auction Winner Amy McGowan

Arkady Medovoy & Virginia Shearer MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

• socialscene • Shawny Robey, Christine Laramae & Phil Tavill

Paulette Saggio & Linnea McAlpin with co-chairs Linda Monda & John Mabardi, with Martha Werner

CHILDREN FIRST FAIRYTALE BALL On April 9, more than 300 guests traveled “into the woods” for the 22nd annual Fairytale Ball hosted by Children First at Michael’s On East. The event included a silent auction, a guest appearance from Miss Sarasota, videos of several Children First success stories, speaker Olivia Harvey, words from Children First CEO Philip Tavill, and a record-breaking paddle raise.

Christy & Errol Sackett

Mark Creech, Adam & Kat Hughes with Liz Stamoulis

Frank & Katherine Martucci

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

Kathleen Coty

Phyllis & Hank Battie with Teresea & Trevor Harvey

Graeme and Dina Malloch

Renée Dedio Preininger

941.400.4235

reneeworks4u@gmail.com @preininger_property_group 8131 Lakewood Main St., Suite 201 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 sarasotatrustrealty.com

Sarasot

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“I am so proud to represent Sarasota Trust Realty Company, a Sarasota based boutique real estate brokerage firm. Sarasota Trust Realty’s culture is centered on superior customer service and professionalism. prideRealty myself on “ I am so proud to represent SarasotaITrust Company, a these core values, as I am personally at your service from our very first conbased boutique real estate brokerage firm. Sarasota Trust R versation, through the close of your transactin and beyond. I dedicate myself cultureorisselling centered on is superior and professio to ensuring your buying journey smooth,customer skilled, andservice successfull. I stake my reputation it every day. ” I am personally at your se pride myself on these on core values, as

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• socialscene • Mary Hoffman & Anne Folsom Smith

Joseph Gianguzzo, Brian Lipton & Dave Lipton

John & Fran LaCivita, Tom & Sherry Koski, with Joe McKenna Scott & Jill Levine

SARASOTA ORCHESTRA BRUNCH

Pianist Kristian Mendoza

On March 27, over 300 guests gathered in the ballroom at Michael’s On East to enjoy a delicious brunch and learn about important education programs that benefit our community. Performances included the John Miller Jazz Ensemble, a featured Youth Orchestra Ensemble, and the 2021 Edward & Ida Wilkof Young Artists Concerto Competition winner. Proceeds benefit Sarasota Orchestra Education Programs. Valeri Gill & Susan Hines

Mark Pritchett

Debbie & Dan Dannheisser

Harry Leopold & Audrey Robbins

Co-Chairs Howard Allison Madsen, Anne Virag & Lydia Landa

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

• socialscene • Mary Collier, Lauren Kurnov, Kyla Weiner

Janis Collier, Jennifer Weiner, Wendy Mann Resnick

Ronnie Riceberg, Janet Tolbert, Mikki Pertofsky

JFED WOMEN’S DAY The Jewish Federation of SarasotaManatee hosted its first in person Women’s Day event since 2019 on April 4th at Michaels On East. Chaired by Janis Collier and Wendy Mann Resnick, the event featured New York Times best-selling author Jennifer Weiner, who entertained the crowd of more than 250 with stories about her family, her work and her passion for cycling. Photos by Cliff Roles. Jennifer Weiner speaking to a sold-out crowd at Michaels On East

MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

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• socialscene •

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PAWS ON THE DANCE FLOOR Paws on the Dance Floor was a smash hit on April 8th, 2022 at the Art Ovation Hotel. Guests came dressed as their favorite musical decade and performers. There were flappers, hippies, disco dancers, and more. The successful event raised over $100,000 for the shelter and its mission. Janet Rice, Amanda Schubert & Lori Hines

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SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

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Graci McGillicuddy & Becky Thornhill

Co-Chairs Sandi Stuart, Mason Ayers & Gwen MacKenzie

SMHF WOMEN IN MEDICINE On March 25, 2022, over 350 guests attended Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s ninth annual Women & Medicine Educational Luncheon held at Michael’s on East. The program featured a panel discussion from leading oncology experts on gynecologic cancers, including genetic testing and personalized treatment. Proceeds from the luncheon will help support the expansion of the Genetics Counseling Program at Sarasota Memorial. Nikki Sedacca & Ann Logan

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POUR FOR A CURE Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe founder and artistic director, Nate Jacobs, was celebrated by his friends at SRQ Waterworks for his nomination as the Leukemia Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) 2022 Man of the Year. Nate is competing in a 10-week capital campaign to raise funds in support of local cancer research and patient care powered by LLS. Richard Carney & Tim Mitten

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SPARCC ON THE RUNWAY Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) held its annual fashion runway show at The Ritz-Carlton in Sarasota on March 18, 2022. This sold-out event was attended by over 500 guests who eagerly shopped for trendy items at very fair prices. Volunteers modeled designer attire from SPARCC’s Treasure Chest boutique. SPARCC serves Sarasota and DeSoto counties in domestic violence and sexual assault.

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SARASOTA GARDEN CLUB GARDENS IN PARADISE On March 26, the Sarasota Garden Club hosted their biggest fundraiser event of the year, Gardens in Paradise. More than 800 guests toured several beautiful gardens in the community. The Garden Club hosted a lunch following the tour, where Mable Ringling greeted guests and answered many historical questions. Photos by Rick Benitez.

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Dr. Anila Jain & Bill Mariotti

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USFSM HOSPITABULL On March 22, the USF School of Hospitality and Tourism Management held their annual HospitaBull at The RitzCarlton, Sarasota. After a two-year hiatus, over 250 guests, sponsors, faculty, staff and students enjoyed an elegant dinner prepared in partnership by students of the hospitality program and the Ritz-Carlton culinary staff.

Rob & Jennifer Rominiecki

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• socialscene • Peter Fischer & Mary Fischer

Ed Scharf

Sandi Chapnick, Traci Smullen & Andria Bilan

JOSHPROVIDES I INTERACTIVE DINNER & AUCTION Chaired by Traci Smullen, JoshProvides Epilepsy Assistance Foundation celebrated a fun-filled evening at Michael’s On East with Phil Mancini and Chef Jamil Pineda leading the fourcourse Interactive Dinner with 200 guests doing the cooking. Kaitlyn, who has grand mal seizures, and her mother Erin, thanked guests for their support so she could obtain Mowgli, her trained seizure response dog. The event raised more than $160,000 to support children, families, and individuals diagnosed with epilepsy and other seizure disorders. Amber Thomsen & Inna Snyder

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Remington Reynolds , Steve Gareleck, Elizabeth Moore, Casey Brown, & Kenneth Paslaqua. Photo by Cliff Roles.

2022 ELIZABETH MOORE SARASOTA OPEN Photos by Nancy Guth So ended the Finals of the 2022 Elizabeth Moore Sarasota Open. The ATP 100 Mens’ Challenger Tournament, which had been previously held at more remote venues, wrapped up on Easter Weekend at its new downtown Payne Park home. This central location attracted tennis fans to downtown Sarasota from all over the region, as well as from out of state, beniffitting local businesses with increased traffic and activity. Says Virginia Haley of Visit Sarasota, “It was great to have the Sarasota Open happen in the heart of Sarasota for the first time. The tournament really showcased the marvelous Payne Park tennis facility and all of the amazing downtown Sarasota restaurants, entertainment, and shopping. I am excited about the future of this event” In partnership with the city of Sarasota, new owners Steve Gareleck and Remington Reynolds, as well as minority owners Kenneth Paslaqua and tournament title sponsor Elizabeth Moore, brought together a substantial volunteer group to make this a well-attended and successful event. The stands and VIP sections were nearly at capacity every day. The addition of USTA regulation lights also allowed for some electrifying nighttime match play, and will now make evening play possible for Payne Park tennis patrons year-round. Although most came to watch tennis, the fun didn’t stop there. Both adults and youths had the opportunity to attend free tennis clinics with instruction from tennis legends Nick Bollettieri and Brian Gottfried. Other events included 42

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

Bill Sadlo, Barbara Lancer, Christina Bonilla & Amy Lyons

Nick Bollettieri with youth clinic

Youth Night, where free sandwiches, drinks, and tickets were provided to over 100 kids to enjoy an evening match, and Ladies Night, which featured a book signing by former USTA president and CEO, and current Director of the Harlem Junior Tennis and Education Program, Katrina Adams. Live and silent auctions at the 2022 Tennis Ball benefitted the Boys and Girls Clubs of Sarasota and Desoto Counties, and on April 12, a check for $10,000 was presented to Bill Sadlo, BGCSDC Executive Director, by the event’s owners alongside City Commissioner Hagen Brody, who was instrumental in bringing the tournament to its new location. This year’s tournament was voiced by master of ceremonies Ray Collins. ATP players ranked as high as th top 100 in the world in the world played both in singles and doubles competing for a total purse of $106,000. Even more desired than the winning prize money were the 100 ATP points that the singles winner would receive in order to improve not only his ranking but also possision himself to obtain a covitted wild card into the French Open. The Singles winner was Daniele Galan from Colombia, who won in 3 sets against American player Steve Johnson from California. Doubles champs were Robert Galloway and Jackson Withrow against Swedish player André Göransson and American player Nathaniel Lammons. Galloway and Withrow only recently became Doubles partners, Lammons actually having been both their individual partners on previous tours. Many of the tournament players will be moving on to the Open at Tallahassee, then on to the Club Car Championship in Savannah, both ATP 100 tournaments.

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MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

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• ph i la n t hr o p y •

The Pathway to

ENDING HUNGER Keith Monda and Veronica Brady By Ryan G.Van Cleave • Photo by Nancy Guth

Keith Monda and Veronica Brady are committed to helping end hunger. Their experiences separately and together have informed their work, raising resources and awareness about the issue in our region. When former President and COO of Coach Inc. Keith retired to Sarasota, he created a clear philanthropy plan because he didn’t want his efforts to be like spreading peanut butter. “So, I asked myself what are the things that are most important to me? It was children, education, and conservation.” Helping children quickly grew to a top-level interest. Former wealth advisor Veronica’s commitment to the community was evidenced throughout her community volunteer efforts and her time at both Gulf Coast Community Foundation and The Bay. Working together, Keith and Veronica helped implement programs to teach kids how to read, make sure they’re safe in a pool, and get support for those who suffer from mental illness. Keith explains that “there’s a whole plethora of things that all kind of weave together, but at the heart of it is this—if they don’t get fed, nothing else works.” 46

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The idea of people going hungry had been on his mind for a long time. Years ago, as an economics student at The Ohio State University, a woman Keith knew pinned a note to his door that said: Can you help me out? I don’t have any money and my kids are hungry. Keith saved that note. Decades later, it serves as a constant reminder of the obligation he feels to make sure people get fed. It’s sometimes hard to believe, but children in our community know food instability and hunger just like that Ohio woman’s family did. Nearly 50% of children in Sarasota County qualify for free or reduced school lunch, while over 90% of those in DeSoto County do as well—so many, in fact, that their school district is allowed to provide lunch to every child for free. When a study on childhood hunger revealed that fewer than 5% of local students who received free or reduced meals had access to nutritious food over the summer, Keith, Veronica (then with Gulf Coast) and All Faiths Food Bank CEO Sandra Frank, co-founded the Campaign Against Summer Hunger.

• ph i la n t hr o p y •

To engage donors, they devised a new strategy for funding the Campaign. “Investor-level” donors were asked to give a gift that could be replicated in future years. “We knew that the issue of summer hunger wasn’t going away,” says Veronica. “We wanted to be able to come back in following years to ask again.” The cumulative of that support during a “quiet phase” of the Campaign became a matching challenge for the community. That first year (2014) the goal was to raise one million dollars to feed 15,000 children, but they exceeded that by raising $1.2 million and reaching more kids. And the generosity and impact has continued. “One thing that I find particular gratifying,” Keith says about subsequent years of the Campaign, “is that the number of repeat donors is above 80%. That just tells you that people get it. They’re committed. We’re absolutely thrilled.” In 2021, the goal was to reach $1.6 million to ensure that 35,000 children were fed over the summer. The Campaign is more than just fundraising, though. It’s more than just buying and distributing food or improving access to food and distribution infrastructure for at-risk children

and their families. It’s also about raising awareness that there are thousands of children in our community who are at risk for hunger. “It’s not that people don’t care,” Keith says, “it’s more that there’s a lack of awareness and understanding. We continue to try to make that change.” While some might assume local food pantries are picking up the slack, regulations and restrictions make it hard for many to have their needs met. For example, at a federal funded Summer BreakSpot distribution site, you can’t take food offsite, and you can’t get food for others who aren’t physically there. As one way to overcome this challenge, All Faiths Food Bank creates “backpacks,” which are biodegradable plastic bags filled with kidfriendly food that people can swing by and take during the summer as needed. Some years ago, Keith and Veronica witnessed the success of the backpack program firsthand when they visited the RL Taylor Community Center. The director pointed out a perhaps-10-year-old boy who came in every morning and picked up an armful of backpacks to bring home to feed his five younger siblings. “I remember thinking about MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

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“Food insecurity across the country is something we simply have to change.” —Keith Monda that impact,” Veronica says. “Summer hunger doesn’t just reach the school-aged children. It’s also about kids who are younger than school age, or even those who are older, including those who drop out to support their family. We really need to make sure that we’re catching all kids and meeting them where the need is.” For years, Keith has continuously supported All Faiths by funding their facility expansion, programs, and staff positions. He was also a founding investor in All Faiths’ Food and Resource Center in DeSoto County, which seeks to address rural hunger. Keith has also sought to fight childhood hunger on a national level, too. Since 2012, he’s served as Chair on the Board of Directors of Feeding America, the national network of food banks to which All Faiths belongs. Their network of 200+ food banks feeds more than 40 million people each year through the efforts of food pantries, shelters, soup kitchens, and various other agencies. Though this summer is Keith’s final Board meeting, it doesn’t signal that his or Veronica’s commitment to fight hunger is over. “Food insecurity across the country is something we simply have to change,” he explains. “Ten years ago, at Feeding America, one of the mantras was ‘let’s shorten the [food] line.’ Now the conversation is ‘How do we end hunger?’”

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Raising awareness and encouraging others to participate is at the heart of Keith and Veronica’s belief in how ending hunger is possible. As All Faith’s 2022 Campaign is well underway, they know, “Together we CAN make a difference.”

F O R M O R E IN F O R M AT IO N

941. 3 6 5 .1119 • s c e n e s a r a s o t a . c o m 48

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

about All Faiths Food Bank, please visit www.allfaithsfoodbank.org or call 941.379.6333.

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REAL ESTATE POWERHOUSE

The Local & Global Impact of Michael Saunders & Company By Sylvia Whitman • Photos by Barbara Banks

SARASOTA SARASOTA SCENE SCENE | | MAY MAY2022 2022

If you haven’t heard of Michael Saunders & Company, you probably haven’t lived here long. Its white-on-blue signs hang from swing posts on for-sale properties across Sarasota, Charlotte, Manatee, and Lee counties, especially along the waterfront. Its origin story has passed into local lore—how a native daughter and single mother borrowed $5,000 in 1976 to found her own firm and grew it into a multi-billion-dollar business that spans residential and commercial real estate, as well as new development and a multitude of support services. As elsewhere in the United States, real estate on the Gulf Coast has boomed during the pandemic. If you feed on quantitative data, digest these numbers: In 2021, Michael Saunders & Company generated $4.79 billion in sales volume, including a record high $161 million from the commercial division, which vaulted to the number 1 spot in Sarasota. But financial success accounts for only part of the firm’s allure. A collaborative team of loyal agents, staff, and leadership operate out of 24 branch offices. If you warm to qualitative data, browse the anonymous posts on the review site Glassdoor: “It’s all about the FEELING you get when you [are] affiliated with Michael Saunders,” wrote one employee. “Excellence, Integrity, Communication & Mutual Profitability. She expects NOTHING less than absolute professionalism out of each of us and we honor her by doing just that.” The “she” is Michael Saunders, of the trademark colorful scarves. But you probably knew that if you’ve lived here more than a New York minute. WHAT’S IN A NAME? Saunders’s parents named her for an Elizabethan ancestor, English poet Michael Drayton. As a child, she moved with them from Tampa to north Longboat Key, where her father opened a marina. “I grew up in a family of entrepreneurs, some more successful than others,” she says. “But entrepreneurial thinking held that you could do anything you wanted in life—if you were prepared to pay the price.” As she grew up with sand between her toes, as she puts it, she wondered where her vocation lay. At Florida State University, she majored in history and psychology with a deep desire to attend law school. She knew she wanted to make a difference. “That may sound very simplistic, but I think a vision is clear, simple and the driving force of an organization. The complexity comes with the layers that you add to make that vision a reality.”

Photo Courtesy of Michael Saunders & Co

She returned to Manatee County and taught public school for a year to help earn money for law school. “It was very difficult to make a true difference in the lives of students. I had 180 each day. If a student went to sleep in class, I didn’t know whether I bored them to tears, whether they came from an abusive household, or whether they had an early morning paper route.” Another door to making a difference opened for Michael: serving as a probation officer. With a small caseload, she visited homes, schools, and churches during dependency investigations. Saunders listened, asked questions, and forged relationships with families. But late-night trips to jail conflicted with motherhood. The entrepreneurial seed began to sprout. Saunders had tremendous people skills, and she thought the Gulf Coast was one the best places in the world to live. Real estate? Finding the right home—”that decision can make a huge impact on your life and your family’s life,” she says. As she apprenticed with brokers, she recognized the industry’s potential and shortcomings. “Standards were very different in those days. It was kind of a good old boys’ network with part-time agents.” Making a difference struck her as a full-time job. Saunders wanted to do things differently. “I wanted to raise the bar. I wanted a value-based company. I wanted agents to dress professionally and be professional.” As an agent herself, she knew agents needed resources and support to be successful. MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

Saunders knew she needed to surround herself with like-minded individuals who shared the same drive to make a difference. “I found that there were people who felt the same way in the industry, who wanted to believe in something, who wanted to have a common set of values and culture, who wanted that safety net of someone in the lead who wouldn’t stand for unethical behavior,” Saunders says. Saunders has always welcomed differences of opinion, just not differences of values. She anticipated, rightly, that like-minded agents and staff would stand “shoulder to shoulder” with her whatever the hurdles ahead. “I’ve never had a goal of being a large company. I just wanted to do it better every day. If you do something 1% better every day, think where you will be at the end of the year.” Or at the end of 46 years. A SON ADDS STRENGTH Part 2 of the origin story features Michael’s son, Drayton, who grew up with the business and, in the way of young adults, wanted nothing to do with it. Or Sarasota. After graduating from Colgate University in New York, he decamped to Santiago, Chile, where he owned a bagel and coffee shop. But in 2001, during one of Drayton’s visits home, Michael asked if he might want to join the family firm. She had a vision of her own firm, selling what she knew best—no dry land, just the coast, because she understood “all the benefits and joys of living in nature, how it nourishes your soul and nourishes your spirit.” But no local bank in 1976 would lend a woman $5,000 to set up shop without a male co-signer. A customer, Siggy Levy, stepped up. When Saunders informed her broker boss, he advised her to hang onto the nameplate on her desk: She’d be back. While praising her excellent salesmanship, he told her that she was “going to be terrible at running a real-estate company.” She made her nameplate her shingle and opened her first office on St. Armand’s Circle in 1976. In the early days, the name “Michael” got her the phone call or the meeting, with people assuming she was a man. But the value statement proved more important than gender association. Naming the company after herself demonstrated her willingness to put her credibility on the line. Adding “& Company” acknowledged that she couldn’t undertake this venture by herself. 52

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He did. Two years later, Chilean business sold, 31-yearold Drayton moved back to town. He started work with Michael Saunders & Company in mortgage and title—and rotated through other divisions. Today he’s president, to his mother’s CEO. Selling real estate isn’t rocket science, Drayton says, but it’s complex, and emotional on the residential side. “It’s not a transactional skill set. It is a human skill set. You talk about lifestyle; lifestyle is a proxy for your life dreams, right?” First-time home buyers, second- or thirdhome buyers, retirees, downsizers—for everyone, “the core of a real-estate decision is a life event,” Drayton says. “Building trust, listening to that need, providing in-depth market and neighborhood data, and being an advisor without being the decider—that’s what a good agent does.” Drayton has experienced the mercurial extremes of real estate, first the recession of 2007 and lately the COVID-

era spike. Being prepared to face every challenge and opportunity is the hallmark of a strong and sustainable real estate company, Drayton observes. Real estate is always local, “one of those trite sayings, but one that is really true.” Today’s strong market has accelerated shifts underway before the pandemic. The old assumption that most out-of-state buyers drove down from the Midwest to the Gulf Coast crumbled as more flights landed at SRQ. As the coronavirus hit cities hard and remote work untethered workers from the office, Sarasota’s appeal broadened. “You began to see in the last two years far more in-migration from the Northeast in particular,” Drayton says. At the same time, the region is luring house hunters priced out of places like California, New York, and even some markets within Florida, such as Naples. The global market is also readjusting. Pre-internet, an international traveler might return home to Sweden, England, or France after a vacation and talk up Sarasota’s beaches, culture, and laid-back atmosphere within a small circle of friends. Technology has transformed word-of-mouth marketing. “As we’ve grown as a company,” Drayton says, “we’ve layered into that networking with an international audience. We are connected to affiliate companies nationally and internationally because it really is a global market.” The pandemic interrupted travel, however. International buyers are just now returning. Michael Saunders & Company stays connected both online and offline with network partners of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, Luxury Portfolio International, and Mayfair International—extending the company’s reach nationally and internationally. Drayton notes, “Having access to these premier brokers who have strong footholds and commanding market-share in their respective markets is important to our agents and customers alike.” The company is expanding robustly into new home development and commercial real estate. Here again, Michael Saunders & Company makes the most of its long and deep ties to the area. Both developers and businesspeople “don’t want to come in and just do one thing; they’re committing to the overall Gulf Coast market area” in establishing new businesses and developments. Growth and expansion are part of Michael Saunders & Company’s strategic plan for the future.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE WRIT LARGE In addition to selling the Gulf Coast, Michael Saunders & Company is vested in it. “Michael and I have been very passionate about being involved in things that we feel drive our brand as a region,” Drayton says. He points to Michael’s involvement with Mote Marine, Selby Gardens, West Coast Black Theatre Troupe, and The Education Foundation of Sarasota County, and his with The Bay, the Van Wezel Foundation, and the new performing arts hall aborning, among other nonprofits. The MSC Foundation, founded in 2011, engages the company’s agents, staff, and leadership team to give back to the communities that have brought the company so much success over its 46 years. Last year it hit its goal of raising $1 million. Agents and staff fund and run the MSC Foundation (Michael and Drayton match contributions). With two grant cycles a year, the MSC Foundation has given grants to 241 local organizations in Manatee, Sarasota and Charlotte counties that provide “shelter, sustenance, education, and a path to self-sufficiency.” MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

MSC Foundation. Photo Courtesy of Michael Saunders & Co

The company also recognizes that what makes this region such a great place to live and work brings with it the infrastructure challenges of newcomers—more traffic, for instance, and rising housing costs that strap younger and lower-income workers. Although Michael Saunders & Company first established its niche with waterfront, aka luxury properties, Michael notes that agents now sell at all price points. Solving the affordable housing crisis requires a public-private partnership, she believes, and creative solutions facilitated by nonprofit, government, and business leaders. Michael and Drayton agree that the company draws its strength from trustful relationships—agents with clients, company with agents, community with company. “We not only want to make the company better; we want to make the community better,” Michael says. With a succession plan well in place, Michael Saunders could consider less work and more play. She has full confidence in Drayton and her leadership team. “It’s not as much about me anymore but rather ensuring that the legacy of making a difference endures.” Drayton has even supplied playmates, two grandchildren whom she adores. Michael concedes that she wouldn’t mind more play time with them, and more travel and fly fishing. “But I never have been able to stop and start a day and say, Okay, this is work time and this is Michael time,” she says. “It all kind of blends together.” Michael Saunders still feels the call of business and community involvement. “You can’t retire from passion,” she says.

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Read about local women of impact & inspiration in Sarasota Scene’s special triennial issue. Out in print & online now Visit scenesarasota.com or call 941.365.1119 to learn more about this special issue! MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

Share Your Journey!

Have you recently traveled somewhere incredible? Taken a vacation nearby, or far away? Whether it was by land, air, or sea, we want to see photos of your journey.

Scan QR code to upload photos and description of your trip to be considered for our June Summer Issue.

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

Deadline: May 9th

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MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

Top 5 Single Family Home Sales Sarasota County Listing Agents (first) and Selling Agents included

171 S Washington Dr

1900 Casey Key Rd, Nokomis 1900 Casey Key Rd, Nokomis

$10,060,00—12/29/21 Bruce Myer, Coldwell Banker Realty Alexis Smith-Frady, Compass Florida 1313 Westway Dr $11,500,000—03/07/22 LISTING & SELLING AGENT: Roger Pettingell, Coldwell Banker Realty 4300 Higel Ave $12,000,000—10/15/21 LISTING & SELLING AGENT: Mark Coppens, Living Vogue 7712, 7711 & 7760 Sanderling Rd $14,000,000—12/09/21 Donna-Wright Morgan, Coldwell Banker Sunstar Realty Darla Fairchild, Coldwell Banker Realty 1900 Casey Key Rd $16,500,000—04/28/21 Joel Schemmel, Premier Sotheby’s Intl Realty Jennifer Linehan, Michael Saunders & Co

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

1313 Westway Dr, Sarasota

Top 5 Single Family Homes Manatee County Listing Agents (first) and Selling Agents included

5050 Gulf of Mexico Dr, LBK $9,100,000—07/22/21 Alan Atchley, Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Judie Berger, Premier Sotheby’s Intl Realty 6600 Bayou Hammock Rd, LBK $9,750,000—04/20/21 Bill Anderson & Mark Baron, Michael Saunders & Co JoDene Moneuse, Michael Saunders & Co 5965 Gulf of Mexico Dr, LBK $10,150,000—06/01/21 Roger Pettingell, Coldwell Banker Realty Joel Schemmel, Premier Sotheby’s Intl Realty 6211 Gulf of Mexico Dr, LBK 5050 Gulf of Mexico Dr, LBK

$10,400,000—02/07/22 Donna-Wright Morgan, LISTING & SELLING AGENT: Judy Kepecz-Hays, Coldwell Banker Realty 100 Beach Ave, Anna Maria $16,000,000—02/02/22 Charles Buky, Coldwell Banker Realty Lisa Morris, Premier Sotheby’s Intl Realty

100 Beach Ave, Anna Maria 100 Beach Ave, Anna Maria

4740 Ocean Blvd., Oceane, Siesta Key

MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota

EPOCH, Sarasota

Top 5 Condo Sales Sarasota County Listing Agents (first) and Selling Agents included

EPOCH, Sarasota 605 S Gulfstream #12 $9,700,000—01/22/2022

Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Quay Commons PH 1801 $7,908,600—04/20/2021 Julia DeCastro & Perry Corneau, Michael Saunders & Co Roger Pettingell, Coldwell Banker Residential Realty Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Quay Commons PH 1903 $8,927,943—04/12/2021 Listing & Selling Agents: Julia DeCastro & Perry Corneau, Michael Saunders & Co 60

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

Dianne Anderson, RE/MAX Platinum Realty Adam Cuffaro, Michael Saunders & Co EPOCH, Sarasota 605 S Gulfstream PH 18 $9,747,250—05/13/2021 Listing & Selling Agent: Amy Drake, Property Perspectives Group Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Quay Commons PH 1903 $10,575,000—02/11/2022 Nora Johnson & Klaus Lang, Michael Saunders & Co Beth Afflebach & Joan Dickinson, Michael Saunders & Co

Top 5 Condo Sales Manatee County

5622 Gulf Dr, Holmes Beach Vista Grande $2,700,000—06/11/2021

Listing Agents (first) and Selling Agents included

Jen Sekel, Anna Maria Island Beaches Realty Don Purvis, Beach House Real Estate 4965 Gulf of Mexico Dr #202 4985 Gulf of Mexico Dr #403

Positano

$3,875,000—01/27/2022

$3,495,000—04/09/2021

LISTING:

Reid Murphy, Developers Realty

Non-Member Agent

Shelbi Loftin, Fine Properties

SELLING: Meghan Leiter, Michael Saunders & Co

101 67th St, #1, Holmes Beach West Wind Shores

4955 Gulf of Mexico Dr #101

$3,750,000—10/07/2021

Positano

Jennifer Chatt & Gail Tutewiler,

$4,100,000—12/06/2021

Island Real Estate

LISTING & SELLING AGENT:

Don Purvis, Beach House Real Estate

Reid Murphy, Developers Realty

4985 Gulf of Mexico Dr #403, Positano

MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

Top 5 Sales Country Club Communities Sarasota County Listing Agents (first) and Selling Agents included

3727 Caledonia Ln—Founders Club $2,500,000—12/09/2021 Melissa Dovey, Founders Club Realty Toni Zarghami, Keller Williams Classic Group 3129 Founders Club Dr—Founders Club $2,575,000—11/15/2021 Kathy Callahan, Michael Saunders & Co Judie Berger, Premier Sotheby’s Intl Realty

8263 Archers Ct—Founders Club

669 Trenton Way—The Oaks Clubside

8263 Archers Ct—Founders Club

$2,900,000—03/21/2022 Steve Abbe, Coldwell Banker Realty Monica Verinder, Coldwell Banker Realty 144 Osprey Point Dr—The Oaks Bayside $3,000,000—01/19/2022 Rachel Benderson, Michael Saunders & Co Steve Abbe, Coldwell Banker Realty 8263 Archers Ct—Founders Club $3,500,000—07/16/2021 Kathy Callahan, Michael Saunders & Co Helen Jaquith, RE/MAX Platinum Realty

8263 Archers Ct—Founders Club

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

8499 Lindrick Ln—The Concession Golf Club

Top 5 Sales Country Club Communities Manatee County Listing Agents (first) and Selling Agents included

8341 Lindrick Ln—The Concession Golf Club $3,600,000—10/29/2021 Sara Boudarga & Nancie Kalin, Michael Saunders & Co Laura Stavola, Premier Sotheby’s Intl Realty 8595 Lindrick Ln—The Concession Golf Club $3,600,000—09/24/2021 Stacy Haas, Michael Saunders & Co Andree Huffine, Coldwell Banker Realty

8499 Lindrick Ln—The Concession Golf Club 8499 Lindrick Ln—The Concession Golf Club

8415 Broadstone Ct—The Concession Golf Club $3,800,000—02/28/2022 Stacy Haas, Michael Saunders & Co Victoria Campbell, EXP Realty 8439 Lindrick Ln—The Concession Golf Club $4,250,000—04/26/2021 Kim Ogilvie, Michael Saunders & Co Mark Coppens, Living Vogue 8499 Lindrick Ln—The Concession Golf Club $7,980,000—02/01/2022 Stacy Haas, Michael Saunders & Co Ryan Skrzypkowski, Coldwell Banker Realty MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

Office Market Share Report Ranked by Total Volume. Based on MLS data for the 12-month period March 13, 2021 to March 14, 2022

COLDWELL BANKER REALTY, Sarasota

2. PREMIER SOTHEBYS INTL REALTY, Downtown Sarasota 3. MICHAEL SAUNDERS & COMPANY, Downtown Sarasota 4. KELLER WILLIAMS ON THE WATER, Bradenton 5. FINE PROPERTIES, Sarasota 6. RE/MAX ALLIANCE GROUP, Bradenton 7. COLDWELL BANKER REALTY, Longboat Key 8. BRIGHT REALTY, Sarasota 9. MICHAEL SAUNDERS & COMPANY, Siesta Key 10. COLDWELL BANKER REALTY, Lakewood Ranch

Agent Market Share Ranked by Total Volume. Based on MLS data for the 12-month period March 13, 2021 to March 14, 2022

Jessica Adair, Locals Realty

2. Roger Pettingell, Coldwell Banker Realty 3. Jason Sato, Sato Real Estate 4. Amy Drake, Property Perspectives Group 5. Joel Schemmel, Schemmel Property Group, Premier Sotheby’s Int’l Realty 6. Judy Kepecz-Hays, Coldwell Banker Realty 7. Reid Murphy, Developers Realty 8. Toni Zarghami, Zarghami Group, Keller Williams Classic Group 9. Bruce Myer, Coldwell Banker Realty 10. Curt Ware, The Ware Group, Keller Williams Classic Group 64

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

WAGNER REALTY

caring for the community Did you know? Wagner Realty is one of the oldest and largest independent, locally-owned, and locally-operated real estate companies in Manatee and Sarasota Counties. As members of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World (LRE), they have a global presence in more than 60 countries and can accommodate a full range of services to customers and their families to or from anywhere in the world. Established in 1939, it is common knowledge that Wagner’s full-service real estate success is unprecedented, but according to Lakewood Ranch Branch Manager Diane Lee, "What people may not know is Wagner’s passionate commitment and involvement in the community's local businesses. We participate and sponsor local events and activities, and advocate for the community we call home."

Charitable Activities: • Manatee County Sheriff's Department Golf Fundraiser • Bradenton Blue Foundation • Wounded Warrior Project • University of South Florida • St. Stephen's Episcopal School • Boys & Girls Clubs • Humane Society of Manatee County

“Honestly, we are as proud of our community involvement as we are of anything else. Organizations we support include the Bradenton Blue Foundation, and the Wounded Warrior Project." When not working with an agent or handling company business, Wagner Realty owner David Eckel is sitting on the boards of many local businesses, charitable and educational organizations. Being a local business owner, Eckel recognizes that small businesses are the heart and soul of a community, and works hard to support them. Wagner Realty promotes a culture of caring by supporting local fundraising efforts, the arts, community organizations, and education. Our company culture encourages agent involvement and volunteerism. Visit wagnerrealty.com, or stop by their new state-of-the-art office on Main Street Lakewood Ranch, to learn more about the company’s complete service offerings and committed participation in supporting local charities.

we do more than sell real estate! CONNECT » wagnerrealty.com • (941) 756-7800 • 8141 Lakewood Main St., Suite 106, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202

Sustainable

LIVING

in action

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

Southface Sarasota at the Florida House By Ryan G. Van Cleave More than a quarter of a century ago, Sarasota County, the School Board, and the non-profit Florida House Institute envisioned a local green demonstration house and gardens that would inspire environmental stewardship and enhance the quality of life in Sarasota with opportunities for eco-friendly exploration, design, and action. That forward-thinking commitment to sustainable living resulted in the creation of the Florida House. It wasn’t just a local resource but also the first green building in the entire country that was fully open and available to the public. Soon, the Florida House was buzzing with workshops, tours, and demonstrations for students and community members to advance an ethos of sustainable practices including energy and water conservation, recycling, and landscape design. In 2021, the Florida House joined sustainable building nonprofit Southface Institute as the first satellite location of the Atlanta-based organization. An innovator in strengthening equity and the environment by transforming residential and commercial structures since 1978, Southface sought to expand within the Southeast. The Florida House’s similar mission, vision, and community leadership made the two non-profits a match made in sustainability heaven. The new partnership launched as Southface Sarasota at the Florida House. “I got hired in March 2021,” says Sarasota local Amber Whittle, who serves as Executive Director of Southface Sarasota at the Florida House as well as Southface’s VP of Development, Marketing, and Communications. “It’s a very lively place here. People are always coming and going. We regularly have students coming by fixing this or learning that, or someone’s shooting video here. Plus, members of the community come by all the time.”

MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

"WE HAVE THE PERMACULTURE GARDENS. WE HAVE THE CISTERNS. WE HAVE THE PGT WINDOWS, ECOSMART SUSTAINABLE FLOORING, AND TERRY OSBORN’S FLORIDA CRACKER HOUSE DESIGN WITH PASSIVE COOLING.” —Amber Whittle

That’s been the idea from the beginning, but the biggest benefit of the Florida House is that people can discover firsthand what sustainable living can look like in the real world. “We have the permaculture gardens. We have the cisterns. We have the PGT windows, EcoSmart sustainable flooring, and Terry Osborn’s Florida cracker house design with passive cooling,” Whittle explains. “We also have solar panels and pervious pavers. We basically have everything in one place so people can come in and learn about all the different aspects of sustainability.” Whittle points out that the Florida House continues to evolve with the latest technologies. For example, they’ve got the latest PGT windows because PGT wants people to see how they work and what they do—the Florida House is a demonstration facility for them and other vendors of sustainable products. One of the things that hasn’t needed to be upgraded are the solar panels. “It’s basically been the same technology for the last 50 years,” Whittle says. “A lot of sustainability products are things we’ve known about for a long time, but the costs are coming down now.” Southface Sarasota is closely following a new trend related to electric vehicles. While most people think about plugging their car in at home to charge it using solar panels or other forms of energy, the opposite can be true as well. So, if a power outage leaves your house without energy, you can plug in some new electric vehicles, like the Ford F-150, and use it to power up the house. All you need is a specific converter, and your car or truck can function as one big battery for your other power needs. Talk about flexibility! One of the things that surprises Whittle is how slow Florida utility companies have been to incentivize energy efficiency as seriously as other states have. “Our

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

utility companies need to embrace solar in a way they’re currently not. In other states, companies are already using it as part of their business model. We’re still a couple of years behind them.” In California, for instance, it turned out to be extremely valuable for customers to be energy independent during the wildfire crises. Here in Florida, we’d benefit from more energy independence to get us through a hurricane, where the power could be out for a few days or a few weeks. Floridians can keep themselves and their neighbors going during emergencies with accessible, reliable energy generation options. “It’s also a quality-of-life issue,” Whittle notes. “People often think about it economically first, but right now, I’m sitting in my office that’s only 30 feet from Beneva Road—a busy road—and I can’t hear the cars at all. That’s because of my beautiful PGT double-pane windows. Having nice cork flooring, good foam insulation, and great air quality can improve your quality of life as much as it saves you money. Plus, having a garden just outside means that I can walk out and grab a loquat or fig whenever I want. Or I can just walk around and look at the butterflies. It’s really beautiful having a garden like that and being able to appreciate it all the time.” The lease for the Florida House ends on July 9 of this year. However, it’s still unclear what Sarasota County intends to do with it next. Years ago, the Florida House building was relocated to make way for an expansion of the Suncoast Technical College. Will the building be moved again or repurposed? Maybe. Regardless, Southface Sarasota is committed to keeping this green demonstration home going because it’s central to their mission of promoting sustainable homes, workplaces, and communities through education, research, advocacy, and technical assistance. The Florida House brings all that together into one package that’s been a gift to Sarasota for decades. Southface Sarasota will keep working to ensure it’ll be around for decades to come as a beacon of hope and an important sustainability resource as we define the future of our climate, environment, and community. For more information about Southface Sarasota at the Florida House, please visit www.southface.org/ sarasota or call 941.924.2050. MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

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Feast Ears

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Sarasota Orchestra’s Summer Music Festival By Ryan G. Van Cleave

In 1965, the Sarasota Music Festival began as a one-week event that featured seven guest mentors and a handful of student musicians. Within a few years, the festival’s success necessitated that it expand into a three-week offering that soon gained national and international attention. Today, more than 500 musicians from the top colleges and conservatories in the world apply each year to be one of the 60 fellows who get to work side-by-side with 40 guest faculty musicians who represent some of the nation’s major performing organizations, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Seattle Symphony, and Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music. MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

In its nearly-60-year history, the festival, a program of Sarasota Orchestra, has known only three music directors, with co-founder Paul Wolfe first serving in that role until 2006. Pianist Robin D. Levin headed the festival for the next decade. Then Jeffrey Kahane became music director in 2017. Kahane is a California-based conductor and soloist who made his Carnegie Hall debut in 1983. These days, Kahane still performs regularly while serving as the Professor of Keyboard Studies at USC’s Thornton School of Music. Among his other accomplishments, Kahane served for two decades as the Music Director of the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra. Kahane had known about Sarasota Orchestra for a very long time, having performed with it as a soloist “many years ago,” he says, “though at the time, it was then called the Florida West Coast Symphony!” Years later, when Levin was overseeing the event, he called Kahane to invite him to fill in for a last-minute faculty cancellation. It went so well that Levin soon asked Kahane to apply to succeed him as Music Director. After an international search and subsequent interviews, Kahane earned the job. “It’s such a thrilling and wonderful experience. This year, in the space of three weeks, we’re doing 14 programs, which means we’re averaging four different programs a week,” he says. Yet he’s quick to note that the festival is designed for teaching. That means he and his 40 guest faculty colleagues mentor the fellows through a busy schedule of concerts, master classes, coaching sessions, and open rehearsals. “There’s a tremendous sense of excitement about working with such a remarkable group of young musicians each year, who are usually in the range of age 18 to late 20s. Some are still in school, some will have just graduated, and occasionally, some will have just earned jobs.” Each week of the festival, a different group of faculty rotates in, so the fellows get intense exposure to that group. For audiences, this means the events are widely varied and always fresh. For 72

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

Jeffrey Kahane

“There’s a tremendous sense of excitement about working with such a remarkable group of young musicians each year." the fellows, it means that the opportunities for learning and growing are exponentially greater. “As Music Director,” Kahane explains, “I have the privilege of selecting most of the music that gets played, and I do that in consultation with my colleagues. Here’s yet another particularly wonderful and unusual thing about the festival— the fellows themselves get input on what they get to play. Before the festival starts, they’re asked to send in a list of things they’d especially like to play, and that gets serious consideration.” Each week, there’s a faculty-only concert, as well as a fellows-only concert. But there are also two concerts each week where they all play together. “That’s one of the most thrilling things for the audience. It’s always a great, wonderful thing to witness the sort of spark and magic that happens when young musicians at the beginning of their career get to work with those have accomplished so much professionally.” Something that makes the 2022 season particularly special for Kahane is that one of the musical guests shares his last name—it’s his son, Gabriel, who’s an accomplished singer, musician, and composer. While they’ve worked together before, it’s rare because they don’t live in the same city, so Kahane is incredibly excited about this opportunity. “He’ll be working with Caroline Shaw, a composer who won the Pulitzer Prize several years ago. They’re good friends and have performed together many times. They’ll be playing their own original music together, and then they will also perform with a group of the fellows, too.” MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

Highlights of this year’s Sarasota Music Festival— which runs June 5-25—include Kahane and Levin giving a joint lecture on festival topics, and acclaimed pianist Ya-Fei Chuang, a festival alumna, serving as soloist for Chopin’s Piano Concerto in F Minor in the first festival Saturday performance. The festival ends delightfully, too, with a program entitled “From America to Italy.” During that program, festival alumna and faculty violinist Francesca Anderegg performs Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto No. 2 before the entire event concludes with Felix Mendelssohn’s beloved Symphony No.

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

4, which is a high-spirited tribute to Italy’s sunshine and luxurious breezes. Kahane adds that “I’ve been so touched by the passion that I feel with Sarasota audiences. There’s obviously a great love of the arts there. For a city of its size, the richness of its cultural offerings is impressive. I’m so glad to be a continuing part of it.” For more information about Sarasota Orchestra’s Summer Music Festival, please visit www.sarasotaorchestra.org/ festival or call the Box Office at 941.953.3434.

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Access for

Everyone at Manatee Performing Arts Center

By Lisa Codianna Fowler

oung children, high school students, parents, seniors, and thespians who may be physically challenged find education, gain experience, and build confidence at the Manatee Performing Arts Center (MPAC). The team at the Center strives to make its performances and facilities accessible to everyone. Accessibility is a priority, whether you are a student, actor, designer, technician, volunteer, or member of the audience.

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

MPAC’s SPECIAL FACILITY AMENITIES: UNDERSTANDING ACCESS At the helm of MPAC, CEO Janene M. Amick aims to ensure every member of our community feels like their space at MPAC is a space for them. “Even for our volunteers who might not see as well as they want to and still want to help us with data entry or selling tickets, we made sure that everybody has extra-large monitors, even though it may sound like a simple thing,” she explains. Dan Yonko, Director of Communications is working on a pervasive campaign to help people understand the significance of access. He emphasizes, “One of the things that I was so impressed about when I came on board is the organization's commitment to making our programs and facilities accessible to anyone regardless of their ability level. For example, our theatre is one of the very few in the entire state that has handicap accessible catwalks.” Yonko and Amick mention that shows such as The Titanic–The Musical exemplify the exciting opportunities for people of all ages and levels of ability. For instance, Amick explains that a member of the cast has vision challenges, “yet is fully participating as a feature character in the show, not an extra.” The Titanic is also an example of cast and production members coming up through the ranks through their education at MPAC and gaining the self-assurance to participate in community theatre.

• Several types of state-of-the-art assisted listening devices • Booster seats as requested • Braille and large-print programs for most productions • Curbside drop-off under the port-cochere • Elevator to access the ballroom, skybox, and administrative offices • Adult and child-size noise reduction ear protection • Wheelchair accessible restrooms on both floors • Wheelchairs, scooters, and bariatric chairs supporting up to 800 pounds • Wheelchair-designed timed entrance doors • Service animals on a leash or in a harness are permitted

The award-winning show opened on MPAC on April 28 th and is running through May 15 th. With music and lyrics by Maury Yeston and a book by Peter Stone, the pair have collectively won an Academy Award, an Emmy Award, an Olivier Award and three Tony awards. The original Broadway production of Titanic–The Musical won five Tony Awards including Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book. ALL TOGETHER NOW MPAC offers a series of programs for people of all ages from 7 to 99. Youth Education consists of training in singing, dancing, acting and technical design for ages 7-17. The programs include learning how to audition, rehearsals, and a minimum of two full-staged performances. MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

There are summer programs where students participate for two weeks, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. According to Amick, the kids work together as a team to start putting the show together beginning on the first day. Yonko’s 11-year-old daughter started studying at MPAC when she was nine. She participates in the Saturday programing, took advantage of being on stage in the summer program last year, and is looking forward to the programming this year as well. “I’m proud of her in so many ways,” he says, “but she's really blossomed being on stage and I think there's a lot of carry over to how well she conducts herself in school, and her socialization skills. She was very painfully shy. Theater has given her immense confidence and belief in herself.” For his older daughter, performing is outside of her comfort zone, but she “is very interested in the technical side of creating costumes, so the entire family can participate.” For seniors, there is a theatre troupe that meets every Wednesday at 11 a.m. “Here, truly, are ambassadors learning the art of improv so that they don't get caught up with worrying about the stress of memorizing lines.” Amick says. “So, learning the art of improv, we can put them in any situation, and they can entertain a crowd.” UPCOMING CAMPUS OPEN HOUSE One of the best ways to appreciate the magic that happens here is to attend the upcoming campus open house 78

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

where you can take a guided tour of the entire building, including behind the scenes. Held this year during the second week of June from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. you can learn how to get involved from volunteering in the costume shop, becoming a carpenter or a painter working on set, or work in the Communications Department, helping to boost social media. Amick explains one of the many benefits of attending the open house, “It gives young people who are looking for opportunities to maybe stretch themselves into a new field. They might want to be behind stage or be behind the desk learning the business side of the operation.” THE VISION Amick highlights her plans for their immediate future. “I look forward to doing two or three outdoor events in the parking lot across the street where people can come and either see live entertainment or see a film. We’ll do at least three unique events where we can gather the community together, supporting the arts. This will give them an opportunity just to come in, enjoy a cup of coffee and a cookie, and learn where they may come to see great entertainment from musical theaters to dramas to tribute concerts, local dance recitals, and annual reviews. Outreach for us is reaching out into the community to bring people in.” Yonko participated in a job fair through Southeast High School, with more in store now that COVID-19 has diminished. “We are all about partnerships and being active participants in the community,” he says.

"Outreach for us is reaching out into the community to bring people in.” —Janene Amick The job fairs demonstrate to students that there are opportunities for them to join MPAC as volunteers or participate on mainstage. Amick adds, “We’re super excited that we are really focused on getting back up and running to full capacity. And that means not just the shows, but also our programming and providing opportunities for people not only to come in, but for us to go out into the community and do things right.” A LONG-LIVED HISTORY Since its meager beginnings in 1947, the Center has expanded exponentially from a fledging troupe periodically performing at modest venues to a yearround professionally staffed corporation of seven full-time employees, three part-time, and more than

70 contracted directors, musicians, and designers. Now housed in an award-winning state of the art facility, it offers a full season of productions, events, concerts, comedy and more. To learn more about the opportunities, performances, and events at MPAC, visit manateeperformingartscenter.com. MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

• spotlight •

Building A life

& SUPPORTING A LEGACY Home Builder CEO David C. Hunihan BY CAROL BRZOZOWSKI David C. Hunihan, CEO of Lee Wetherington Homes, took time to speak with Sarasota Scene about that which makes his life and career fulfilling, his extensive volunteer efforts and why he loves living and working in the greater Sarasota region. Tell us about yourself. I am very blessed. I’ve been married to a wonderful woman—Lauren Hunihan, a Keller Williams Realtor—for 28 years this June. We have three amazing daughters. Samantha, 23, is married; Shannon, 26, is getting married this November, and Ainsley, 18, is a sophomore at Bayside College in Lakewood Ranch. We have lived in River Club for more than 20 years. I have been in the real estate business in the Bradenton/Sarasota/Venice/ North Port area for more than 30 years. I am a licensed Florida Residential Contractor and Florida Real Estate Broker. We are active in the local church and several ministries. I am on the Manatee/Sarasota Building Industry Association board of directors as a life director and past president, 80

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the board of Rough Cut Men, a worldwide ministry to men, and the board of City Commit, a Sarasota and Bradenton initiative to transform our community through greater men, marriages and leaders. I like to read, hike the mountains, watch movies, go to the beach, run, exercise, and participate in obstacle course races. Most of all, I enjoy family time. You earned a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing from Boston College. What led you to pursue a real estate career? In eighth grade, I took a mechanical drawing class. I loved it and decided I wanted to be an architect. My father noticed I had a natural bent towards marketing and sales, suggesting I pursue a career in that direction, thus leading me to my degree. I didn’t realize a marketing degree usually meant a sales career, but I enjoyed it and was good at it. I sold everything from knives to Yellow Page advertising to jewelry, and eventually, I moved to Florida from New Jersey and started selling real estate. Although I didn’t become an architect, I still found my

• insider •

way into design and building by selling new homes. I fell in love with home building and have been doing it ever since. Why did you choose Sarasota to live and work? I moved here in 1991 for an opportunity with a brokerage firm that did property management and general real estate sales. That didn’t work out. While taking scuba diving lessons, I met my instructor, a builder, who invited me to work for him until I figured out what I wanted to do. Lee Wetherington moved here in the 1970s from Jacksonville because he used to vacation here and loved the area. He was a drywall contractor at the time and thought he would be a good home builder. He started a business building homes in this area ever since. I joined Lee in 1995 as an onsite sales person, working my way to president in 1999. I left in 2000 to start my own company, but didn’t make it through the Great Recession, closing the doors at the end of 2008. Lee convinced me to come back as CEO in May 2021.

Most people come here for the weather and lifestyle; it’s truly hard to beat. We are close to the beach, have worldclass water sports, museums, art, culture, restaurants, a booming economy and great people from throughout the world. It is hard to imagine living anywhere else for me now. What are some of your notable achievements? I am proud our company has weathered many storms over the past several decades. We have seen multiple real estate cycles, 9/11, the Great Recession and now the COVID pandemic. We’ve been able to consistently deliver the highest quality homes and best customer experience possible. We have won dozens of local, regional and national awards, but I am most proud of the homes we build. My marriage and our three daughters are my most notable achievements, although most of that credit should go to my wife. We raised three outstanding human beings who have achieved amazing things at their young ages MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

• insider •

“THERE WILL BE CHANGES COMING TO OUR INDUSTRY IN THE FORM OF DESIGN AND LIVABILITY, WITH UPDATED ARCHITECTURAL STYLES AND ALSO IN HOW WE LIVE IN OUR HOMES, THE LATTER BEING A RESULT OF THE LAST TWO YEARS OF HOME ISOLATION.”

already and will accomplish much in their lives. I achieved the impossible feat of getting my wife to move from New York to Florida, something she said she would never do. Tell us about your extensive volunteer experience. I try to live my life based upon biblical principles. It is easy for me to give back to others and the community since I have been given and been blessed with so much. My passion is mentoring, helping people to become all they were created to be. If they are strong and live with integrity, their families will be strong, their communities will be healthy, and their country will thrive. That is part of what Rough Cut Men and City Commit do. I also participate in several Bible study and prayer groups through church. We pray for and support each other and pray for our country and local, state and federal leaders. We see a need and try to fill it without pomp and circumstance. Lee Wetherington Homes also has a long tradition of giving back to the community through a variety of charities. We have supported the Boys & Girls Clubs, donating funds, sponsoring kids, and building buildings. We are blessed to be a part of this community and honored to be able to give back some of all we have been blessed with. The real estate industry is going through some changes and Florida is viewed as a “hot spot”, which pleases some people and leaves others frustrated. What is your take? In more than 30 years in this business, I have never seen the demand, supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, material and labor cost increases, 82

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and housing shortages we are currently seeing. There doesn’t seem to be an end in sight. If the economy holds, I believe demand will hold as well—at least for the next decade or so, based upon demographics. You can’t time the market. If you want or need a home, today is the only day you know current pricing, availability, and interest rates. Tomorrow, everything may change. It seems to be getting worse. Our company is focused on our systems and processes to maintain consistency in our product and to deliver the best possible customer experience—that is getting lost now in the craziness and desperation. Where do you see yourself five years from now? Five years from now, Lord willing, we will have a stabilized market as things slow down a little before the next boom. We will be preparing the company to survive the original founders and continue the legacy Lee Wetherington created almost 50 years prior. We will be building in as many as three or four master planned communities as one of the few custom home builders that can build more than 24 homes per year. We are currently streamlining and updating our systems and processes so the team that comes after us will be able to perpetuate and expand what Lee started. There will be changes coming to our industry in the form of design and livability, with updated architectural styles and also in how we live in our homes, the latter being a result of the last two years of home isolation. Our industry hasn’t changed significantly in decades and we are ripe for disruption—think Blockbuster video and Netflix. These are exciting times, and I expect the next decade to be just as exciting and challenging.

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SARASOTA FILM FESTIVAL WRAP-UP BY GUS MOLLASIS I’ve attended every one of the 24 Sarasota Film Festivals through the years as either a fan, a filmmaker, or a journalist covering the event. And every time, it’s like visiting an old friend. I’ve always felt a special connection to this festival. Perhaps it’s because of my love for cinema, but I think it runs deeper than that. In a town that celebrates the arts, I believe that the Sarasota Film Festival is one of the many reasons why Sarasota is truly an A-lister community. Over the years I’ve seen this film festival grow, shine, struggle, pivot, survive, thrive— but always live to fight another day and provide yet another year of great films and wonderful events. Every year, the Film Festival creates a fabulous array of scenes and experiences. This year, even among the extra precautions, was no different. After the last two years being particularly hard through the horror story that is COVID-19, SFF took a big step closer to being the event that it previously was, the event that I have come to love and look forward to every year. A place to connect with friends, watch wonderful films on the big screen, join in on

riveting conversations with their filmmakers, and to mingle with familiar actors and movie stars. In fact, I got the chance to sit down with Jacqueline Bisset for a warm, friendly, and memorable interview. We talked of John Huston and George Cukor. Of Steve McQueen, Frank Sinatra, and of course, Anthony Quinn. She seemed pleased that I found her Jackie believable opposite Quinn’s portrayal of Onassis in the 1978 hit The Greek Tycoon. “He was Onassis. When I saw him the first time, he was Ari and I knew I had to up my game and be Jackie,” she told me enthusiastically. When I thanked her on behalf of me and my boyhood pals for her performance in The Deep, she flashed a knowing smile. Yes, I missed the Sarasota Film Festival, and am thankful to have it back to quasi-normal. Seeing films on the big screen with real people sitting next to me sans mask was simply refreshing. With this all said, I am also grateful to give out my annual Gussie Awards to a handful of the films that moved me. Drum roll please!

MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

PLAYING THROUGH Playing Through was a film that shined light on the remarkable life and golf career of Ann Gregory, who became the first woman of color to enter the USGA Women’s Amateur. A film made in Sarasota with a committed community effort, I award Playing Through a much deserved Gussie for telling a story worth telling, and commend the community who helped put it on the big screen.

THE FABULOUS OHS: THE MARRIAGE AND THE MUSIC Local talent Kathryn Parks tells the personal story of her parents, a small-town composer and a strong-willed singer/librettist, as they spent their lives chasing their musical journey together. I award a Gussie to Kathryn for celebrating her mom and dad and bringing their touching story to the screen.

PORCUPINE As opening night films go, Porcupine had heart, laughs, and pathos. More than that, it made you think. For all of this, it was one of the best opening night films in the history of the Sarasota Film Festival. Jena Malone gives a powerful and poignant portrayal which has never been better. Malone plays Audrey, a young woman estranged from her family who is seeking life’s answers. She happens on a YouTube clip about the concept of adult adoption and decides to give it a try. Malone will steal your heart in this moving and poetic film experience brilliantly written and directed by Michael Cahill.

MONTANA STORY This was, I’d say, the best film I saw at the Sarasota Film Festival this year. A huge canvas is painted brilliantly by acclaimed writer/directors Scott McGehee and David Siegel. The story covers two estranged siblings, Haley Lu Richardson and Owen Teague, returning home to a land that they loved in order to be by their dying father’s bedside. It is here that they confront each other and their past. Montana Story is an often painful story set on a beautiful backdrop, with two outstanding performances by the young stars. Because of this, it is a well-worthy Gussie Award winner, and a must-watch. 86

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

LISTENING TO KENNY G Okay, I listen to Kenny G. And I like him. You got a problem with that? This refreshing and original documentary examines why so many people hate Kenny G, and why even more people love his music. Director Penny Lane makes all the right choices, showing all sides of the record of this multi-million-selling artist. In the end, however, it is Kenny G’s selfdeprecating personality that wins the day. Even the harshest Kenny critics won’t be able to resist the charm and charisma that plays in the veins of this smooth jazz player. I surely couldn’t resist—and that’s why Listening To Kenny G earned a much-deserved Gussie Award.

LITTLE SATCHMO Louie Armstrong moved the world with his unique musical talent. Once one heard his iconic horn and voice, it was never forgotten. In Little Satchmo, what we hear is a different voice. The voice of a father talking to his one and only child, Sharon Preston-Folta. In this riveting documentary, we hear “Satchmo” interact with Sarasotalocal Preston-Folta in a story about a father and daughter. Little Satchmo reveals their secret and loving relationship in a film that will make you see the jazz legend in a new light. A beautiful film worthy of a Gussie Award.

THE AUTOMAT I love films about food and restaurants—and I love Mel Brooks. Well, The Automat has both. Mel Brooks helps tell the story of Horn and Hardart’s meteoric rise to becoming one of America’s most unique restaurants—and sadly, of the closing of its final store. The story centers on the vending machine popularized in the 20th century that offered fresh cooked meals in a commissary-style eatery. In this nostalgic, Gussie Award-winning film, Brooks lovingly remembers putting a nickel in the slot and choosing the goodies behind the glass. Apple Pie. Lemon Meringue. There were no bad choices at The Automat.

LONG ISLAND GUS When you have a riveting story about a guy named Gus who will do just about anything to help his ailing buddy get a kidney, but mysteriously disappears in the process, then there is a good chance that it will hook this guy named Gus (yours truly). I’m a sucker for documentaries with a little quirk and a lot of a heart, and Long Island Gus definitely falls under that category. And that’s a wrap! The 24th Sarasota Film Festival is history.

MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

• insider •

educationmatters

FST Summer Camp

FST’S COMMITMENT TO KIDS: THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE By Ryan G. Van Cleave While our area is rich with live theatre options, Florida Studio Theatre (FST) has been here since 1973 and has grown with the community. This contemporary theatre has expanded to become the largest subscription theatre in the state and among the largest in the entire country, serving over a quarter of a million people through its various programs and offerings each year. Physically, too, it’s hard to miss because FST now consists of five distinct theatre spaces that take up almost two downtown blocks. Associate Director At-Large, Kate Alexander, has spent most of her professional career with FST. “I’ve been here since we were in a hut,” she says with a laugh. “The education program, which I founded within my first five years here, has been integral to the theatre’s mission from the beginning. And, to quote Zelda Fichandler [a pioneer in the Regional Theatre Movement in the 1950s], ‘A theatre isn’t worth its salt unless it has a mission.’ And part of that mission was that you weren’t just there to produce or present theatre, but you had an education mission that went deep into the community. That was there from the inception of FST since Richard Hopkins took over as Artistic Director in 1980.” When she worked with Hopkins to create the educational programming, they decided it had to be similar to what adult acting programs offer because the principles were the same. “If you’re going to play Juliet, you have to remember what it’s like to be in love when you were just 88

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

FST School CPAC

FST Summer Camp

a teen and had that overdriving passion,” she explains. “So, for children, you’re given a monologue from Shel Silverstein or Judith Viorst, and they’re going to be child appropriate. And you’re going to imagine—what was it like when my best friend moved away? What was it like when my mom was late, and I was afraid she wasn’t going to come to school? What was it like when my grandpa died? It’s the same training. It’s using your memories and then having the courage to cross that threshold and show emotion.” Fundamentally, it’s a safe, effective version of the same training Alexander experienced in New York when she studied at the American Center for Stanislavski Theatre Arts.

FST Summer Camp

These days, one of the ways that FST makes good on their commitment to education is through its Children’s Theatre program which is more than just a performance where kids sit and watch. Preshow activities and post-show Q&As with cast members ensure that kids understand and engage with the experience. To accommodate the widest range of young audience members, FST keeps ticket prices low. For those who want to go beyond being an audience member, there’s the Florida Studio Theatre School, which offers year-round classes for students of all ages and experience levels. It’s more than just acting training, too—they also learn music, dance, improvisation, and theatre writing. Alexander points out that there’s a large difference between dress up and acting. While it’s important to put on your Superman cape and run around the house, it’s just as valuable to participate in a school pageant. “All of MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

• insider •

FST School

“YOU HAVE TO HAVE THE COURAGE TO CREATE AND SHOW WHO YOU ARE AS A HUMAN BEING. IT REVEALS THE ABILITY OF YOUR FIVE SENSES AND YOUR HEART.”

FST School

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

those experiences are important to child development,” she says. “But fear is the same for an adult or for a child, and with acting, you’re crossing a threshold, and that threshold is the stage. You have to have the courage to create and show who you are as a human being. It reveals the ability of your five senses and your heart.” Unsurprisingly, the interest in theatre didn’t wane even when COVID was raging. “The children were so grateful to be able to come to the theatre. Even when we had them stand six feet apart with a mask, and they couldn’t touch each other. Parents brought them because the children needed a way to express what they were feeling,” Alexander explains. “Theatre is not about being fed by film or television. It’s about engagement. That’s what acting is.” FST’s no-cost VIP Performing Arts Program—which is for students with physical, mental, emotional, or behavioral challenges—continued throughout the pandemic as well. Because of the logistics of gathering this population, they moved fully online where they recreated the same safe, supportive space for these students to express themselves, gain confidence, and develop social skills through the art of theatre. “Each week,” Alexander reports, “those amazing students put on their FST T-shirts and showed up on camera.” They needed it. More than ever, they wanted to be part of something.

CPAC

During the year, FST runs classes in 8-week sessions, while over the summer, they run full-day, multi-week sessions starting May 30th. No matter the level of expertise or skill, the offerings are designed to meet students exactly where they are to nurture individual creativity. These summer sessions culminate in a final showcase, where each student gets the chance to perform a specially chosen monologue, a meaningful song, or a scene with a partner. The students rise to the occasion, too, in ways that are impressive. One of Alexander’s favorite stories is how one boy in their program was “simply the shyest kid” for more than two years. He brought a puppet with him, and most days, he sat by the wall and let the puppet handle most of the talking. “Yet he just blossomed in the program, and he later ended up attending Julliard to study acting.” While most students don’t end up going this route, the skills they learn at FST prove invaluable in whatever futures they imagine for themselves. While Alexander loves working with young actors, she has a range of teaching colleagues who all use the same building blocks and methods of training. “The older person brings the wisdom and the knowledge,” she says, “while the young person brings a great deal of enthusiasm, joy, and relatability. Children love to express emotion. They’re simply waiting for an opportunity to show it. FST gives it to them.”

F OR MORE I NF ORMATI ON

about Florida Studio Theatre or its Children’s Theatre programs, please visit www.floridastudiotheatre.org or call 941.366.9000.

Help make higher education possible. Cassandra Holmes 941-752-5390 HolmesC@SCF.edu SCF-Foundation.org MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

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• a r t s + c ult ur e •

MAY 2022 |

PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR

artist series concerts of sarasota 941.306.1200/ artistseriesconcerts.org Lin Ye, Piano May 4 Vieness Piano Duo May 8 2 Hot 2 Tango May 22

asolo repertory theatre 941.351.8000/asolorep.org Knoxville Through May 11 Eureka Day May 11 - June 4

florida studio theatre 941.366.9000/ floridastudiotheatre.org The Grandma That Eats Everything Through May 8 Laughing Matters Through June 19

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

lemon bay playhouse 941.475.6756/lemonbayplayhouse.com The Psychic Through May 15

manatee performing arts center 941.749.1111/ manateeperformingartscenter.com Murder at the Juice Joint May 3 Broadway Memories: Spring Kids Camp Show May 14 Titanic: The Musical Through May 15

mccurdy’s comedy theatre 941.925.3869/mccurdyscomedy.com Humor Institute Class Performance May 3 Hard Heart Burlesque May 8 Matt Holt May 11-15 The World Series of Comedy May 18-21

Beneva Fruitville’s Drag Queen Bingo May 22 Bermuda Mavericks May 25-26 Jessica Kirson May 27-29

the sarasota ballet 941.359.0099/sarasotaballet.org Images of Dance May 3

sarasota contemporary dance company 941.260.8485/ sarasotacontemporarydance.org In-Studio Performance Series Featuring Marsi Burns May 5-6 In-Studio Performance Series Featuring SCDE Spring Showcase May 13-14

sarasota opera 941.328.1300/sarasotaopera.org Sleeping Beauty May 21

• a r t s + c ult ur e •

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941.953.4252/ sarasotaorchestra.org Outdoor Pops: Iconic Songs of the ‘70s May 6-7 Genius of Youth: Discover Mozart May 14

941.488.1115/venicetheatre.org A Tribute to Barbra May 1-2 Pinky’s Players Present: Great Stories Well Played on a Bench May 4-5 Hamlet May 13-29 The Wind in the Willows May 20-29

van wezel performing arts hall 941.953.3368/vanwezel.org Boz Scaggs: Out of the Blues Tour 2022 May 4 One Night of Queen Starring Gary Mullen and the Works May 7 Noche Unidos May 20

venice institute for performing arts 941.218.3779/ veniceperformingartscenter.com The Rocket Man Show Starring Rus Anderson May 14

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westcoast black theatre troupe 941.366.1505/ westcoastblacktheatre.org From Birmingham to Broadway May 4-29 Float Like a Butterfly May 4-29

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MAY 2022 |

State of the Arts

Chasen Galleries

MARA Studio—THROUGH THE LENS

Art Uptown—Diane Boone

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Dabbert Gallery—Candace Knapp

• a r t s + c ult ur e •

VISUAL ARTS CALENDAR

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941.951.0620 / 530burnsgallery.com Swift Lullabies: Arleen Joseph, Matt Levinson, & Teresa McCue May 6

941.365.2032 / artsarasota.org Sarasota County Schools Exhibition May 9 – 21

941.260.5787 / chasengalleries.com Richmond: “Unfinished Business” Featuring Sandhi Schimmel Gold Through May 14

alfstad & contemporary

440.227.4592 / artavenueflorida.com International Art: Dali, Picasso, Turovsky Current Local Artists: Vicki Chelf, Richard Moravits, Elin Li Current

941.316.0808 / artovation.com Tribute to Andrés Valerio Through September 6 Ana Albertina Delgado: The Human Mysteries and the Indifference of the Universe Through September 6 Alexander Solotzew: Life in Colors Through September 6 The Rainer Hildebrandt Collection: Original Painted Slabs from the Berlin Wall Through September 6

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art uptown

941.746.2862 / artcentermanatee.org Southern Watercolor Society 45th Annual Exhibit Through May 13

941.955.5409 / artuptown.com Different Strokes Through May 27

941.366.6400 / alfstadand.com Unfixed by Laine Nixon Opening May 24

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SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

art ovation

dabbert gallery 941.955.1315 / dabbertgallery.com Expressions of Spring May 6 – 30

gallery on 5th 941.330.8091 / susancronkart.com Abstract/Figurative Art— Susan Cronk Current

island gallery west 941.778.6648 / islandgallerywest.com Janet Flickinger Through May 31

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State of the Arts—Nancy Guth

Island Gallery West—Janet Flickinger

Meg Krakowiak—Emerald Walks

mara studio gallery 941.914.8110 / marastudiogallery.com “black+white” Monochrome Expression by 9 Artists May 1–31 THROUGH THE LENS…perspectives Opening May 7

meg krakowiak gallery & studio 941.400.2478 / megkrakowiakstudios.com “New Horizons”

May 1- 31

ringling museum 941.359.5700 / ringling.org Art from Within: Selections from The Ringling Staff Through May 2 As long as there is sun, as long as there is light. Through August 13 Eleanor Merritt: Remembrance Through August 21

Art Ovation—Alexander Solotzew Metadata: Rethinking Photography from the 21st Century Through August 28 Ballroom Florida: Deco & Desire in Japan’s Jazz Age Through September 25 The Marvelous Marbling of Matsui Kosei Through September 25

sarasota art museum sarasotaartmuseum.org Danner Washburn: Effigy Hemric Through May 8 Felix Gonzalez – Torres Through May 15

the southern atelier 941.753.7755 / southernatelier.org See Website for Classes & Studios

spaaces 941.374.3492 / spaaces.art Ah Who Run Dis by Krystle Lemonias Opening May 20

ArtCenter Manatee—Frank Spino

stakenborg/greenberg fine art 941.487.8001 / stakenborgfineart.com “Go Figure” Figurative Art Through May 31

state of the arts gallery 941.955.2787 / sarasotafineart.com Life is a Beach Summer 2022

wyland gallery 941.388.5331 / wylandgalleriesofthefloridakeys.com Clarita Brinkerhoff May 13 – 15 Michael Cheval May 27 – 30

T O S U B M IT YO U R EV EN T / EX HI BI TI O N F O R C O N S ID ER AT IO N , please send information to editor@scenesarasota.com

MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

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meet the artist

VICKI CHELF Vicki Chelf, raised in Louisville, Kentucky, spent her 20’s in Val-David, Quebec, a village of artisans and hippies. There, she wrote what she believes is the first vegetarian cookbook published in French, which provided her the means to attend Ringling College of Art and Design for a degree in Fine Art. Following graduation, Chelf released further cookbooks which allowed her to pursue her passion of fine art painting, including studying classical drawing with Charlie Miano at the Southern Atelier Chelf has accomplished much in her career, including several oneperson shows in the US, Canada, and France at notable galleries. In addition, Chelf has worked for The Ringling Bros. Circus as a foam carver and scenic painter, as well as a foundry assistant casting Duane Hanson’s sculptures. Chelf’s current series, represented by Art Avenue (1440 Main Street, Sarasota), highlights women who were important to the French Resistance during WWII. The pieces are all 36”x48” oil paintings over collaged vintage French newspapers from 1935. Says Chelf, “Finding a trove of beautifully illustrated vintage newspapers in the basement of a friend’s home in central France was like discovering a creative goldmine. I knew they would somehow be used in my art, but I didn’t know how until I visited a Museum of the Resistance in the small town where they were found. Within 3 minutes of entering the museum I was sobbing. The museum was founded and run by a local woman whose mother had been a resistance fighter. I soon realized how important women were to defeating fascism and I wanted to pay homage to these brave and beautiful women. The series will continue with portraits of strong and rebellious women that correspond to the different years of the newspapers in this collection.” More of Chelf’s work can be found at her website, www.vrchelf.com. 9966

SARASOTA SARASOTA SCENE SCENE || MAY MAY 2022 2022

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LITERARYScene By Ryan G. Van Cleave THE POWER OF TWO: LOCAL WRITERS PARTNER ON WRITING SCI-FI, FANTASY, & HORROR FOR DUMMIES

If you’ve been reading my Sarasota Scene articles over the past decade or so, you’ve surely noticed that I bring myself into the story more often than most of the magazine’s writers. While I resist that urge in the Literary Scene column, my editor said to go for it regarding my latest published book…so long as I didn’t speak overly long about dark elves and bumbling robots. “Easily done!” I told her while suddenly wishing I COULD write a lengthy treatise on the merits of dark elves and the wonders of bumbling robots. With a writing partner like mine, however, it didn’t take long to bring our conversation around to useful things beyond those two ideas. See for yourself.

Ryan: Before we talk about our book, let’s talk about collaboration in general. Rick: Listening is at the heart of cooperation, right? You’ve got to be able to listen to each other’s thoughts and ideas. Then there’s some element of give and take. And I think one of the things that collaboration really excels at is letting people both reexamine their ideas and strengthen them based on feedback as they work through a problem together. On a project like ours, collaboration was great because we were grappling with a lot of big picture stuff. How does science fiction work? How does horror work? How does writing work? But there were the little things, too. How do you talk about monsters? Ghosts? Magic? It was useful to be able to bounce those back and forth. This is nonfiction, though. I’m honestly less sure how it would work with fiction. Have you done that before? Ryan: I’ve ghosted novels before, which counts in my mind. I’ve even done one project where my partner and I sat at a computer together and wrote the entire book by talking through each sentence as we typed it.

Rick: That sounds tedious. Ryan: It was a unique experience. Now, let’s talk about our book. It’s a writing how-to, after all, so what’s the most important thing that people should know or understand about writing genre stories? Rick: Don’t get swept up in the details of the cool scientific puzzle that you’re doing or that you’re fascinated by, such as the weird, wild magic system you’ve come up with, or the 1000-year history of your vampire. Those things can be cool and can add some specific genre flavors. Just remember that it’s got to be a story first for anyone to care about all that other interesting stuff. The flip side of that is that with genre writing, your audience is coming for those things. They want to engage with interesting ideas about the future and science fiction or imagining other possible impossible worlds with fantasy or just coming in to be scared in horror, right? Don’t just put the trappings of those things into your story without engaging with what makes those genres really tick and be interesting.

MAY 2022 | SARASOTA SCENE

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Ryan: What surprised you most about our collaboration? Rick: I don’t have a good answer to this because it kind of went according to our plan. Ryan: So people know what the plan was, I’ll dish. You’ve been teaching genre-writing classes a lot at Ringling College, so you wrote the first draft of the genre-specific chapters so you could include classroomtested tips and ideas, whereas I’ve been writing a lot of general articles for The Writer and Writer’s Digest, so it just made sense for me to tackle the chapters on character, plot, revision, and publishing. Here’s what was surprising for me—even though I’ve written about all these topics before in various ways, when I sat down to tackle them for this book, it was almost like doing it again from scratch. I had to reinvent answers that worked for me in that moment instead of parroting those I’ve read somewhere or that I used in a class five years ago. Rick: Good point. Ryan: I’ll add this, too. What made things work was that we both left our egos at the door. If we argued over whose name had to go first on the cover, or who got to take the first crack at writing the introduction, we’d have been sunk from the start. It helped that we had talked through as many potential challenges as we could think of BEFORE we encountered them. Rick: An ounce of prevention versus a pound of cure. Ryan: Exactly. Now, do you care to share what we’re collaborating on next? Rick: We’re revising Writing Fiction for Dummies¸ which is a very different type of project because we have two collaborators who aren’t collaborating with us, which is to say we’re revising and updating the work of the two original authors. In some parts of the book, it just needs updating since the material is a decade old, but in other parts, we just don’t agree with how things are presented. It’s an interesting new challenge that I’m really excited about, even if it’s likely that in another 10 years, some other writer—or writers!—will come along to create the third edition and undo or change all of our work.

SARASOTA SCENE | MAY 2022

“

I think one of the things that collaboration really excels at is letting people both reexamine their ideas and strengthen them based on feedback as they work through a problem together.

“

Ryan: That’s a problem for Future Rick and Future Ryan, I suppose. Now, for Today Rick, I have one final question. What should we do differently this time around in terms of collaborating with this next For Dummies book? Rick: I think we’ll be able to work more efficiently with the editorial staff at Wiley. We have a far better sense about their own specific ways of doing things, so the whole process will likely be a lot smoother, whereas last time, we were kind of guessing about what they needed and wanted. Sometimes we were right and sometimes we were very wrong. Ryan: But we learned a lot with the “very wrong” pathway. Rick: And we figured it out in the end, which is maybe the only thing that matters. Ryan: Stephen King says that “the scariest moment is always just before you start.” I think the second scariest is in the moments right after you finish. That’s when the second-guessing can start. But with a great collaborator like you, I had faith that we nailed it. And from the early reviews and feedback, it seems like the book is as useful as we hoped it would be.

SHADES SHADES

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