May 2023

Siesta Key | A4565141 | $9,995,000 Kim Ogilvie & Melissa Gissinger | 941-376-1717

Siesta Key | A4564288 | $9,980,000 Cindy Fischer | 941-465-1124

Longboat Key | A4566091 | $2,997,000 Michael Nink & Sandi Layfield | 941-914-2805

Bradenton | A4563766 | $2,300,000 Jonnie Dwyer & Bianca Dwyer | 941-812-6283

Sarasota | A4564182 | $1,650,000 Drew Russell | 941-993-3739

Siesta Key | A4564248 | $7,900,000 Denise Mei | 941-685-3198

Longboat Key | A4564100 | $3,200,000 Deborah Schlener & JoDene Moneuse | 651-894-3916

SHINE ON! 2023

Thank Y ou To O ur VMA F a mily Of Friends, Donors a nd V olunt e e rs Who Helped Make SHINE ON! 2 023 an Enormou s Success. W e Are Esp e c ially Gratefu l to O ur Stu d e nt s and Thei r Fam ilies Who Pla c e T heir

T rust in us E very Day.

We Are Honored by Your Generous Spirit !

Special Thanks to our Event Co-Chairs

Christina and Bobby Bonilla Dr. Janet Taylor

And to our Sponsors...

IMAGINATION SPONSORS

Naiema & Don Frieson

Christina & Bobby Bonilla

INNOVATION SPONSORS

Regions Bank

Dunlap & Moran, P.A.

Joy Meyer & Jeff Meyer

Dr. Janet Taylor

Betsy Friedman

SHINE ON! EVENT PARTNERS

Shirley Pickett & Cecil Pickett Michaels on East

Minuteman Press Sarasota

Gulf Coast Community Foundation

INSPIRATION SPONSORS

Theresa & Charles Brown

Coca-Cola Florida

Charmaine Downie, Carl Battle & Gamma Xi Boulé

Leslie & Joe Grabowski

Dorothy Green & Rev. Larry Green

Dr. Ronald A. Johnson

LaGasse Utilities

Kayon & A. Louis Parker

Rodney Robinson

Jan Swan & Skip Swan

Linda Thornton & Roland Thornton

Cynthia Wilkins & Dr. Hubert Skinner

Sarasota

scULPtInG A sKYLIne HOyt ArcHitects Helps mAke Our tOwn live And breAtHe

By Lisa Codianne Fowler

47 YeARs oF ReAL estAte DReAMs coMe tRUe micHAel sAunders & cO leAps tO success One dAy At A time

By Christy Pessemier

On the COver

LUxURY hiGh

HigHest priced (Active) single fAmily HOmes

AsoLo ReP ReAches FoR the stARs witH mAn Of lA mAncHA

By Scott Ferguson

Photo of the Sarasota skyline at night by Nancy Guth.

Luxury Retirement Living On Sarasota Bay

from the • PUBL ishe R

e start our annual Real Estate issue with a fabulous image of Downtown Sarasota taken by Scene’s favorite contributing photographer Nancy Guth. When it comes to the beauty of a city, its skyline contributes greatly to the welcoming and excitement of everything it holds.

Sarasota is blessed with a rich architectural history, quality building, and for the most part, wonderfully planned growth. We have managed to avoid many of the situations that counties and cities to the south are dealing with when it comes to planning and execution of development projects.

The Gulf Coast has become one of the hottest relocation destinations in the country and indications are that it will continue to be hot for years to come. It is no wonder since many homes and condos have beautiful views of Sarasota Bay with jaw-dropping sunsets and incredible wildlife sightings.

If you drive or walk across the Ringling Bridge, the impressive Sarasota skyline with its variety of architectural styles calls to you. The variety of architecture not only exists in the center of the town but also in many of our neighborhoods: Indian Beach and Sapphire Shores, The Rosemary District, Laurel Park, Towles Court, Old Venice, St. Armands and Lido Key, Anna Maria Island—both the new and historic.

Outside the Downtown area in areas such as Southside Village (my neighborhood), custom builders have demonstrated wonderful creativity and innovative design. This is the area around Morton’s Market. It is a wonderful neighborhood and I enjoy living here. It is constantly evolving, and many homes being built in that neighborhood as infill projects or renovation projects, remain true to the neighborhood character. Perhaps these are spec homes that could use some encouragement while ones in which future residents are involved seem to have more character.

Key components of the best of these custom homes include consideration of what exists on either side, better garage and driveway design, creative landscaping, and keeping the mature trees on the property. The best of these new homes keep the existing mature trees and I often see the care many of the builders take in avoiding damage and removal.

The current policy for tree removal requires you to replace it when building on vacant land, but not necessarily on the same property. I believe this needs to be changed and trees should be replaced on the same property at an age at least half of the removed tree. It would also help to have a minimum set back and a stronger sidewalk guideline policy.

Sarasota Scene is a sponsor of the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast’s Nature Lecture series. Recently we were treated to a remarkable and entertaining lecture by Jason Vuic, an award-winning author and historian based in Fort Worth, Texas who specialized in creative nonfiction. He is originally from Punta Gorda.

Jason discussed topics from his book The Swamp Peddlers. He talked about how large land companies beckoned retirees to Florida in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s with an installment purchase program on land. Lots of promises and mapped out lots with a well and a septic tank. There was no municipal planning and virtually no consideration for infrastructure in these huge developments. The negative legacy of these developments is still an issue for these communities that saw dredging, ditch creation and paved

H JOHN KNOWLES, PUBLISHER john@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!

roads (now grass encrusted) not to mention the challenges of constructing town centers or more importantly neighborhood centers. Environmentally they are vulnerable to flooding, saltwater invasion, and species degradation. Culturally, neighborhoods are isolated with few social amenities and consumer resources despite some pretty houses. You need to drive everywhere. Economically, the tax base is shouldered almost exclusively by homeowners.

Sarasota County has been fortunate to have rebuffed the large land companies of these past decades and did not allow companies to carve up the county in small parcels. These parcels in other Florida counties have proved to be difficult to combine and rezone and have challenged infrastructure to breaking points. Sarasota County has a defined land parcel situation, talented builders, and architects, as well a conservation foundation that champions our natural environment.

Striking a balance between residential, retail, hospitality and commercial is so important especially as we rebuild and revitalize the city center. If we need to convert pastureland to gated communities, we need to do it with conservation and social infrastructure consideration. We need to be aware of the environmental issues that have plagued other communities and make decisions accordingly. As Sarasota and Manatee residents get younger, we are quickly moving away from just a retirement community. Further consideration needs to be given to the commercial and business attractiveness.

Please get involved with any initiatives that improve our natural environment, encourage neighborhood preservation, especially those that encourage a balance between residential development and community harmony.

I hope you will enjoy reading our article with community real estate icon Michael Saunders who confirms that the state of our real estate market remains strong, as well as learning about how Hoyt Architects have help shape Sarasota’s skyline. We also have a peak at the top 5 highest priced single-family homes, a wrap-up of the 25th annual Sarasota Film Festival, and an interview with incoming Asolo Rep Producing Artistic Director, Peter Rothstein, who shares his reimagination of the classic Man of La Mancha which starts May 10. Learn about Sarasota Orchestra’s youth orchestras, and philanthropist Tom Koski’s passion for supporting Sarasota Art Museum.

In the meantime, when you are out and about, remember to… Be informed. Be entertained. Be Scene.

Serving the Sarasota area for over 50 years

Historic Southside Village

1924 South Osprey Ave.

Sarasota ∙ (941) 955-9856

MortonsMarket.com

UNIVERSITY PARK University Park Country Club

Summer Memberships Available Now MAY 1–SEPTEMBER 30

OUR UNIQUE LOCATION is minutes from downtown, world-class accomodations, shopping and dining. Once on the grounds, you’ll feel as though you have been transported to a private enclave.

SURROUNDED BY breathtaking native Florida landscape, our semi-private golf course is impeccably groomed and designed for exhilarating play whatever your skill level. Enjoy contemporary cuisine in a coastal modern venue with expansive lake views at The Park Grille & Café.

EXPERIENCE the University Park Country Club lifestyle and live, dine, play! For more information, Ann Backus, Membership Director, 941.355.3888, x234, abackus@universitypark-fl.com

H

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

Sharon Castellano

Call/Text 203.984.7577 | sharon@scenesarasota.com

Community Relations

Alix Redmonde

Contributing Writers

Ryan G. Van Cleave

Christy Pessemier

Simone Knego

Lisa Codianne Fowler

Scott Ferguson

Contributing & Social Photographer

Nancy Guth

Contributing Photographers

Matt Roback

Cliff Roles

Your Friends Are Waiting

When was the last time you swung a racket or hit a golf ball, biked the trail or simply took a long walk with your favorite person to talk to? Joint pain can creep up on us, faster than we’d expect, robbing us of the activities and experiences we used to treasure. Shoulders get stiff. Hips hurt. Knees creak and the back aches. Before you know it, you’re spending more time watching Friends than seeing your own.

At Sarasota Memorial, our award-winning team of orthopedic specialists and surgeons is nationally recognized for excellence in joint repair and joint replacement, using the latest robotic and minimally invasive techniques to rebuild and restore, so you can get back to the things you love and the people you love sharing them with.

So don’t wait . Life’s too short to spend it on the sidelines.

The Next Evolution of Luxury Begins

on the Downtown Sarasota Waterfront

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay has reimagined the downtown waterfront with 78 grand tower residences, nestled on The Quay harbor, overlooking city and bay. Arrayed with exclusive residential amenities and embraced by the legendary service of

The Ritz-Carlton, a new spirit of sunlit sophistication and timeless grace is evolving to incomparable heights.

Luminous Waterfront Living

As locals have come to expect from the acclaimed developer, Kolter Urban, the impeccably serviced residential amenities of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay are unparalleled. Residents are welcomed home to wellness and wonder beginning with a stunning and staffed porte-cochere and glass-lined salon lobby opening out to a spectacular waterfront amenity terrace with a resort-style pool, cabanas, and outdoor bar for enjoying each day as they wish.

Extensive on-site amenities for health, wellness and socializing are complemented by The Ritz-Carlton Spa®. A valet, concierge and other experienced staff serve residents in legendary Ritz-Carlton style from arranging a perfectly catered moonlit dinner for two on residents’ private terrace, to making dinner reservations, securing theater tickets, or leaving a paddle board or kayak by the harbor for adventures out across the gentle bay waves.

Above it All, Life is Beautifully Lived

Rising from a premier property on the Sarasota waterfront, the residences, estates, and penthouses introduce the grandest new expression of living in downtown Sarasota. Elegantly designed and appointed by award-winning SB Architects, the residences are magnificently proportioned from 3,500 to just under 6,000 square feet with open, light-filled spaces for living, dining, and entertaining on an inspiring scale. Walls of glass extend floor to ceiling, opening onto expansive, glass-lined terraces with unobstructed views overlooking panoramas of the sparkling cityscape, sunlit bay, and Gulf of Mexico on the horizon.

Soaring interiors, with up to 13' ceilings, come with an exceptional collection of designer curated finishes. Indoor-outdoor dining and entertaining embraces a sophisticated tropical flair with sunlit great rooms opening to deep private terraces, featuring summer kitchens. Open-plan kitchens unite the perfect balance of high design and comfort with sleek islands and chef-caliber appliances. Owners’ suites with two walk-in closets and spa-style bathrooms offer a tranquil retreat within the home. Cozy dens and spacious bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms create ample privacy for larger families, overnight guests, or hosting unlimited celebrations.

Residents may choose valet parking or private secured owner parking with the option of EV charging. Service elevators offer convenient access for staff and deliveries. Pet grooming and play spaces are on site. Overlooking a signature park, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, and a sparkling marina, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay offers unrivaled access to the best of downtown.

Kolter Urban Sets the Standard

From the developers of The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota, VUE Sarasota Bay, The Westin, Mark Sarasota, and Bayso Sarasota, comes the next evolution of luxury on Sarasota Bay. Kolter Urban has completed, or is in the process of developing, over $4.9 billion in residential projects, including more than 5,300 waterfront and water view condominium and townhome residences known for their residential amenities and high caliber of services elevating downtown living. Kolter Urban residences are in some of the most desirable locations in Florida and the Southeast, including the Palm Beaches, Fort Lauderdale, Sarasota, St. Petersburg, Tampa, and Atlanta.

Schedule your private introduction to The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota Bay, or register your interest at TheResidencesSarasotaBay.com.

Presentation Gallery Now Open at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota 1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Sarasota, Florida 34236 941.499.8704 | TheResidencesSarasotaBay.com

1

MAY 2023

EVENTS CALENDAR

RINGLING BY THE BAY

Come out for Ringling by the Bay featuring live music and dancing with SoulRcoaster on the Bolger Campiello. Food and drinks available for purchase.

Ringling Museum Grounds | ringling.org

5

CINCO DE MAYO BLOCK PARTY

Celebrate the 5th with full street closure, live music, street food and drinks . VIP tables, outdoor bars and more.

Main Street, Sarasota | escape-to-sarasota.com

Dr. Reichbach and his staff have committed to the mission of providing hope to those suffering from pain and mental health illnesses since first opening the Gulf Coast Ketamine Center in 2016. In 2020, the practice began a partnership with Veterans in Pain, a national nonprofit dedicated to solutions for U.S. veterans suffering from physical and emotional chronic pain. Serving as the director of the ketamine division for Veterans in Pain, Dr. Reichbach proudly offers discounted services through Reichbach Center for veterans and their immediate family members.

FOUNDATION GOLF TOURNAMENT

Proceeds benefit the Physician’s Endowment at SMH, which provides continuing education for our health system staff and gives them the opportunity to earn new certifications and update existing credentials.

Laurel Oak Country Club | smhf.org

5

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 and how devastating it is to our children and their families. Join our community for the 18th annual event.

The

| v.org/event/dick-vitale-gala/

6

SUP & RUN 5K

Choose to run, paddle or both in the 5K Run or walk, 5K SUP and 5K SUP. & 5K Run. There are several categories you can sign up for including hand-cycle and wheelchair division.

Nathan Benderson Park | paddlesignup.com

6

CORVETTES ON THE CIRCLE

Spend the day viewing over 150 models of an American automotive classic at the 25th Annual Corvettes on the Circle. The show will include all Corvette model years from the classic 1953 C1 to the current Corvette Stingray.

St. Armands Circle | starmandscircleassoc.com

6

MANATEE TACO FEST

Featuring over 70 of the area’s best taco and other food vendors alongside a variety of specialty cocktails, live entertainment and children’s activities.

Manatee County Fairgrounds | eventbrite.com

6

ART BRUNCH SESSION II: ORCHIDS & ORIGINS

Guests will be immersed in a world of orchids and flowers during this floral arrangement workshop led by a certified floral educator and artist. While creating your own orchid arrangement, attendees will

hear a discussion about native flora around the gardens. Ticket price includes mimosas and light bites. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota | selby.org

6–7

SARASOTA SPRING

CRAFT SHOW

Featuring a variety of jewelry, pottery, ceramics, photography, painting, clothing and much more will be on display, plus an expansive green market with plants, orchids, exotic flora, handmade soaps, gourmet spices and more.

Five Points Park | artfestival.com

HERMITAGE SUNSETS AT SELBY

The event continues into its third year at Selby Gardens’ Downtown Sarasota campus. The outdoor series features performances and explorations of works-in-progress by Hermitage artists-in-residence and alumni.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota | selby.org

16

ART AT NOON WITH SHERYL HALER

Join Sheryl Haler, Film Faculty at Ringling College of Art and Design, as she leads a discussion surrounding the exhibition A Beautiful Mess: Weavers and Knotters of the Vanguard in the third floor galleries.

Sarasota Art Museum | sarasotaartmuseum.org

20

SARASOTA INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL

Everyone ages 12+ are invited to take part. Boats, life-vests, paddles and coaches are provided. In addition to the race, the event will feature a beer garden, food trucks, health & wellness village, marketplace, entertainment and more.

Nathan Benderson Park | gwndragonboat.com

20

LAUGHTER AT LWR!

An extraordinary stand-up clean comedy event on Saturday, May 20 starring 3 hilarious, headliner comedians and an emcee. The Grove | grovelwr.com

20–21

DIG THE BEACH SIESTA KEY VOLLEYBALL SERIES

It’s fun in the sun and sand with check in at 7:30 a.m. and competition starting at 8:00 a.m. Saturday and 8:45 a.m. Sunday. You’re sure to see some great volleyball action.

Siesta Key Public Beach Volleyball Courts | facebook.com/events

21

JAZZ ON THE WATER

Enjoy live jazz on an afternoon cruise on Sarasota Bay aboard the Marina Jack II. Vessel sails from the downtown Sarasota Bayfront Marina. Marina Jack | jazzclubsarasota.org

21

MORNING PADDLE

KAYAKING WITH MOTE

Start your day off right with a guided kayak tour of Sarasota Bay. Paddle across shallow seagrass beds and take in the wildlife that depends on this ecosystem. Soak up some sun as we look for dolphins, manatees, birds and more!

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium | mote.org

In-home installation usually takes just one day. All plumbing fixtures, pipes, and accessories are removed by the installer, then the countertop is trimmed to the precise shape and size. After installing our unique seamless edge sink, all plumbing is re-installed and the area is left clean and beautiful.

In-home installation usually takes just one day. All plumbing fixtures, pipes, and accessories are removed by the installer, then the countertop is trimmed to the precise shape and size. After installing our unique seamless edge sink, all plumbing is re-installed and the area is left clean and beautiful.

Real Estate... Real Paradise

LUXURY WATERFRONT PARADISE

Magical Custom Tropical Waterfront Retreat with Breathtaking Unobstructed Views of Sarasota Bay

Tropical resort-like environment

• Serene Island-Like Paradise

On 118 feet of protected water frontage offers generous indoor-outdoor living spaces for relaxation, recreation and unobstructed Sarasota Bay views. Nearly one acre of serene paradise ensconced in countless palms and lush gardens behind private gates.

• Indoor-Outdoor Living Areas with Disappearing Doors

• Lush Gardens & Countless Palm Trees

• .83-acre lot with 118 feet of protected water frontage

13,000-lb covered boat lift & expansive Brazilian Ipe decking is ideal for fishing and launching kayaks/paddleboards. Stunning pool/spa, tiki huts w/multiple expansive decks & terraces perfect for large scale entertaining.

• 6,455 sq. ft. heated living space | 6 BR / 7.5 BA

• 13,000 lb. covered boat lift

• Chef’s Kitchen with Wolf and Sub-Zero

Three beautifully designed homes, include 6 bedrooms 7.5 baths, to comfortably accommodate plenty of family and friends. The three-story main residence of 4,486 sf showcases refined craftsmanship w/ numerous unique features and designer finishings, including a full chef’s kitchen. The “Pool House” at 1,020 sf includes a full kitchen, covered cabana with an outdoor TV, travertine terrace and space for up to 10 guests, including four retractable bunk beds. The separate three-story “Owl’s Nest” provides space for additional 4-6 overnight visitors.

• 500-Bottle Wine Cellar + Elevator

• 1,000 sq. ft. Pool House for 10 Guests with Kitchen & Retractable Bunk Beds

• “Owl’s Nest” Guest House with Kitchen for up to 6 Guests

• Multiple and Expansive Brazilian Ipe Decks & Terraces

• Lighted Putting Green, Driving Net, Chipping Green, Sand Wedge Area, Bocce Ball Court

• Climate-Controlled Professional Fishing Equipping Area

Outdoor recreation day or night on a lighted putting green, driving net, chipping green, sand wedge area, and a bocce ball court. For the fisherman, a climate controlled, professionally configured “equipping area” with remarkable amenities. And car enthusiasts will delight at the free-standing tool garage, 3+ climate controlled garages, parking for multiple vehicles & accommodation for full-height lifts.

• Indoor/Outdoor Bonus Room with Pool Table, Built in TV, Arcade Games with Stacking Metal Shutters

• 3 Climate-Controlled Garages

Offered for Sale: $9,000,000

MLS #: A4564882 10216 46th Ave West, Bradenton, FL 34210 $9,000,000

10216 46th Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34210

THE

the realtors who deliver

LIFESTYLE YOU DESERVE WITH THE REALTORS WHO DELIVER

June 4-21

SARASOTA MUSIC FESTIVAL

The 2023 Festival, put on by Sarasota Orchestra, will celebrate the mysterious and magical power of music as we present a rich range of works, both familiar and new, that invite us to set our imaginations ablaze, and illustrates the Festival theme: The Power of Music Through Storytelling.

Sarasota Orchestra | sarasotaorchestra.org/festival

June 24

SUNCOAST SUMMER FEST

The 2nd Annual Suncoast Summer Fest kicks off the Summer season on June 24th with a series of special event fundraisers, organized by Suncoast Charities for Children, to raise money for local children, teens, and adults with special needs and their families. Events include the 6th Annual Bob Rizi Memorial Golf Classic, “Blast On The Bay” Boat Fun Run, Charity Poker Tournament, July 4th Bayfront Fireworks, and a “Waves & Wheels” Summer Fest Party. suncoastsummerfest.org

PAR t Y pics

SPARCC TIMELESS TREASURES

Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC) hosted its signature annual fashion show at The Ritz-Carlton. Guests sipped champagne while enjoying a pop-up fashion boutique with fashions from SPARCC’s Treasure Chest store. Next was a delicious luncheon featuring an exciting runway fashion show. An inaugural afterparty with music and shopping helped avoid the valet rush. Chairs included Vickie Smith (event), Darci Jacob (fashion), Coral Pleas, and Terry McKee (honorary). Event proceeds support SPARCC’s free and confidential programs and services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence.

Anja Forsythe and Ahli Lani Dunn, SPARCC Recipient

Courtney Shrem & Beth Jacobson

Krystal Beall

Wendy Rossiter

Darci Jacobs with runway models

SARASOTA OPERA GALA

Sarasota Opera celebrated its 2023 Winter Opera Festival and 64thseason at Sarasota Opera House with its Opera Gala on Saturday, April 1. The evening featured a grand reception, celebration concert and gala dinner with food and wine with the theme of Naples, Italy or festa napoletana! Sarasota Opera expressed appreciation to its premiere sponsors Gulf Coast Community Foundation and Sarasota Scene, and to event sponsor Flowers by Fudgie.

NOW THROUGH JUNE 25

SELBY.ORG

Heather Johnson, Rafael Davila, Filippo Fontana, and Aviva Fortunata

Marco Nistico, David Chaifetz, & Maestro Victor DeRenzi

Stephen Baker & Melissa Voigt

Audrey Robbins & Harry Leopold

CHILDREN FIRST FAIRYTALE BALL

On April 1, the magic of Lewis Carroll’s “Through the Looking Glass,” created a festive backdrop for this Head Start organization’s 23rd Annual Fairytale Ball at Michael’s on East. Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, delicious dinner, and a performance by Cirque Vertigo. A recordsetting live auction and paddle raise netted more than $600,000. Event chairs were Lisa and John Giglio, Teresa and Trevor Harvey, and Janna and Josh Kim.

THANK YOU TO OUR 2023 SPONSORS

SCIENTIST

RESEARCHER

DISCOVERER

Dr. Jacque Ray, Chair Emeritus & Lacy Ray

CEO Philip Tavill, Co-Chairs Josh & Janna Kim, Lisa & John Giglio, Teresa & Trevor Harvey, &VP of Philanthropy Jessica Rogers

Terri & Michael Klauber

Lisa & Jeff Jackson

Charmaine Downie and Angelia Wood | Barbara Rodkin and Audrey Stewart Sandi Stuart and Mike Murray | Jim and Charlie Ann Syprett

Veronica Brady and Keith Monda | Kathy Brown | Charles Perry Partners, Inc.

Community Foundation of Sarasota County | Gulf Coast Community Foundation | Mary Evelyn Guyton | Lung Associates of Sarasota Gwen MacKenzie | Elsa Soderberg | State Street Eating House + Cocktails | Robin Strauss | Take Care Home Health

RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART & DESIGN AVANT-GARDE

The Ringling College campus was transformed in a Boogie Wonderland, back to a time when art didn’t just reflect the world, but changed the world. Guests dressed in 70s threads and enjoyed an evening of dinner, dancing, and a silent auction. The evening showcased students and their work across all majors and highlighted the INDEX program (Industry Experience at Ringling College) and was its most successful gala to date. Dona Scott, Rosa Stanfield, and Jackie Tilton chaired the event.

Pat

THE SARASOTA BALLET’S DINNER OF EXCELLENCE

A celebration of The Sarasota Ballet’s 32nd Season was held on Monday, April 3rd at the Sarasota Art Museum. Directors, Dancers, Staff, and Patrons of The Ballet gathered in the Marcy & Michael Klein Plaza as Director Iain Webb spoke about all the Company has accomplished in the last year, thanking those who made it possible. Following Iain’s remarks, guests enjoyed an elegant dinner catered by Constellation.

Photos by Cliff Roles.

Laura Feder, Rickey Rhodes, & Patricia Golemme

Ginger Bailey, Frank & Katherine Martucci, Marijana Dominis & Sasha Pyatte

John Knowles & Iain Webb

Jean & Joe Volpe

Music by Lyrics by

Original Production Directed by

Directed by

SARASOTA OPERA MOONLIGHT & MELODIES

Sarasota Opera’s third Moonlight & Melodies was held in the Donna Wolf Steigerwaldt Courtyard at the Sarasota Opera House. Attendees enjoyed curated cocktails and food prepared by the best of Sarasota’s chefs. This Giuseppe Verdi-themed event was hosted by Artistic Director Maestro DeRenzi and General Director Richard Russel and the beautiful music of Verdi filled the night air.

Savanna Miller, Brett Wagner & James Ferrara

Dian & Eckart Sellheim with Judy Marquis & Keith Nelson

Giannina Hofmeister & Sarah Barney with Maesto DeRenzi, center

Dolly & Stan Bass

SMH WOMEN & MEDICINE LUNCHEON

The 10th annual luncheon featured informative presentations and panel discussion with SMH female behavioral health professionals including SMH President Lorrie Liang, Dr. Robinder Bhangoo of First Physicians Group, Terry Cassidy, ED of Behavioral Health Services at SMH, and Dana Gau, Psychiatric APRN at SMH.  Event chairs were Gwen Mackenzie and Sandi Stuart. Proceeds support comprehensive care services at the Cornell Family Behavioral Health Pavilion which opens late fall at SMH.

Katherine Harris & Britt Reiner

Terri Cassidy, Gwen MacKenzie, Stacey Corley & Sandi Stuart

Pauline Wamsler, Michael Saunders, Libby Soderberg

SPAC FOUNDATION’S 21ST INSPIRATION GALA

Sarasota Performing Arts Center (formerly Van Wezel Foundation) raised more than $1.3 million at its annual gala in support of the Foundation’s education and community engagement programs and planning for the new Center. The evening included a beautiful Bayfront cocktail reception, an elegant dinner and inspiring program, and a rocking performance by Grammy® Award-winner Kenny Loggins. Susan Travers and Kathy Martella served as co-chairs.

John Knowles & Mary Bensel

Alex Pelletier with Signed Guitar for live auction

Anita Merk & John Cole

Caroline Williams, Cliff Roles & Mary Kenealy

Appleton Award WInner Stevey Jones

Adrian Anantawan, Artist in Residence

SAVE OUR SEABIRDS SUNSET SOIREE

A record-breaking 280 guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres with a scent auction in Michael’s on East atrium before dinner in the ballroom with a live auction. Evening highlights included a matching challenge by Bill and Linda Mitchell with funds supporting the organization’s operating expenses, and the updating of 32 aviaries, habitat repairs, and preliminary architectural work to enlarge the small hospital. Linda Mitchell was event chair and served as Master of Ceremonies. Save Our Seabirds has treated over 11,400 birds since the start of digital record-keeping in 2013.

INTERIOR DESIGN

CoChairs Penny Thomas, Nancy McLeon, Laurie Wolfe, Linda Mitchel, Tess Samuels, Rhonda Lambert & Lisa Hartmann

Kimberley Pelyk, Betsy Winder, with Dr. Pat & Alice Wilkinson

Jessica Guadagno & CEO Aaron Virgin

THE EXCHANGE ANNUAL VOLUNTEER LUNCHEON

For the past 61 years, The Exchange, the iconic community shop that supports local arts and cultural organizations and students pursuing a higher education in the arts, honors its many volunteers for their hard work and support. This year’s event at Michael’s on East was attended by more than 200 volunteers and featured a fashion show with volunteers proudly modeling clothing and accessories purchased from The Exchange.

SAM AMBASSADORS SALON

Sarasota Art Museum’s Ambassadors Salon was held on Wednesday, March 29th at the home of Dean Eisner on Longboat Key. The event was attended by an intimate group of major supporters. Executive Director Virginia Shearer and Senior Curator Rangsook Yoon gave a preview of the upcoming exhibitions in the 2023/24 Season.

Ariane Dart, Host Dean Eisner & Virginia Shearer

Artistry. Passion. Perfection

When it comes to building the home of your dreams, John Cannon Homes is the right choice.

We are invested in the homebuilding process with you, from the moment you enter our models to the threshold of your dream home. We build each home with the highest level of care and craftsmanship and every detail receives its required attention.

Our reputation for excellence is unparalleled in today’s homebuilding market. Whether you purchase a home and lot package or want to build a home on your lot, we are equipped with the expertise to get the job done right!

We take pride in the recognition and accolades we have received from our

community. For 31 years, we have held the title of Best Home Builder in the Herald-Tribune’s Readers’ Choice Awards. In addition, we have won Best Builder in Sarasota Magazine and SRQ Magazine’s Best of competitions. However, our commitment extends beyond the homes we build. We are dedicated to create lasting relationships with our clients and improve the quality of life in the communities that we serve.

Come experience the difference for yourself. We currently have three models open for your viewing pleasure as well as our new sales center "The Model Experience" at Waterside in Lakewood Ranch.

the F in D

By Gina Liga

1.

1. VERONICA DEORE SUNGLASS CHAIN

Help Mom make a statement with this unique tortoise shell sunglass chain. Featuring 26” length, double jump rings that attach to all shapes and sizes, and Veronica DeOre signature gold and diamond charm. Clasp the grips together to wear it as a necklace! Includes a velvet sunglass pouch

$100 | Veronica DeOre, Bradenton veronicadeore.com

2. BEACH SUITE CABANA FOR FOUR

Treat her to the ultimate luxe beach day without having to lug all the gear. Cabana rental for four includes beach chairs, bottled still and sparkling water, cooler, towels, phone charger, beach games, sunscreen, set up and clean up. You choose the beach, they take care of the rest! Service is from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

$450 | Beach Suites of Anna Maria Island beachsuitesami.com

3. SOPHIE ZIPPER TOTE

Crafted with natural, untreated leather trim, woven handles, and trademarked exterior fabric. ConsuelaCloth™ is known for its durability, vibrancy and ease of care. By Sophie Consuela.

$185 | Mollys! A Chic & Unique Boutique mollyssarasota.com

4. TALK OF THE TOWN MANI + PEDI

Make Mom the “Talk of the Town” with the ultimate luxurious manicure and pedicure at the newest Paint Nail Bar location at Waterside Place. The service includes nail maintenance and detailing, hydrating cuticle care, an aromatic, exfoliating sugar scrub, warm paraffin treatment and a relaxing extended massage. Don’t forget the mimosa!

$116 | Paint Nail Bar, Waterside Place paintnailbar.com

5. MONOGRAMMED SEERSUCKER PAJAMA SET

Classic, soft and chic. This short pajama set is sure to be her favorite. Featuring white piped trim, ultra-soft, lightweight seersucker cotton and a true-to-size fit. Perfect for monogramming!

$48.95 | Banana Bug Designs bananabugdesigns.com

6. HEART CHARM TENNIS BRACELET

Hand-selected by the Johnson-Weintraub family, this stunning bracelet features over ten carats of round, brilliant colorless diamonds. Gold & Diamond Source | VIP@goldanddiamond.com for pricing

making a Masterpiece

By Ryan G. Van Cleave | Photo by Nancy Guth

Today, the Sarasota Art Museum—the region’s first museum dedicated to contemporary art—offers visitors a place to see thought-provoking exhibitions and experience educational programming with impressive change agents, leaders, and creatives. Ultimately, this top-level facility anchors the Ringling College of Art and Design Museum Campus and serves as a catalyst for appreciating and understanding the art of our time. Twenty years ago, however, it was just the old empty Sarasota High School that needed to be repurposed or torn down.

13 Sarasotans decided to commit to the former plan by spending years in conversation with local community, educational, and arts leaders. Their goal was simple: convert the historic Sarasota High School into a museum where people could experience the power of art to transform society.

Enter local philanthropist Tom Koski, who went to school in that building in 1978 and was “one of the kids who graduated high school and left Sarasota, vowing never to return.”

After a successful career in the wireless communication industry in the Northeast, Tom and his wife, Sherry, came back to Sarasota in 2009 as “dreaded snowbirds.” During a reception at the house of friends, Tom met Wendy Surkis— the energetic and inspiring woman who led the charge to raise the funds to renovate the old high school by fostering a group of donors. The moment she met Tom and learned of his connection to the building, she beamed with joy.

“I don’t know what was said exactly,” Tom explains, “but ten minutes later, I had agreed to raise money from the Sarasota High alumni to get the project going.” He didn’t mind helping, though, because he didn’t want the building to be knocked down, and since he was recently retired, he was eager to find something to do with the rest of his life. It makes perfect sense that he followed in his parents’ footsteps, he realizes. “My folks had been very, very active in fundraising and nonprofits. My mother continues to be to this day, God bless her. And she turned 91 back in January!”

Tom Koski and Sarasota Art Museum •

Tom looked at his new task and decided the best way to raise money was to offer a naming opportunity within the building. Wendy gave him a specific number to raise, and thanks to Tom’s ongoing efforts, the museum has the Sarasota High School Alumni Auditorium. The SHS Alumni Auditorium is a hub for the Museum’s public programs and lectures through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Ringling College, which is housed in the museum alongside all the art.

“For me to be involved in a modern art museum is kind of a head scratcher,” Tom admits. “I’m in no way an artist. I also can’t cook or fly a plane, so people know not to ask me to do those things. But I quickly fell in love with the people I was working with—so generous and wonderful. It was a great project.”

Tom didn’t stop with raising money to name the auditorium, either. His father founded the local company Sun Hydraulics, and he always told Tom and his brother and sister that if

a community is good to you, you need to be good back to it. That, combined with Tom’s growing sense of the importance of education, leads to his own motto: There’s nothing wrong with the world that a great education can’t fix.

Tom’s quick to add that you can’t have a great education without the arts. “You have to put the A in STEM which makes it STEAM,” he adds, echoing the line so often given by his frequent golf partner, Dr. Larry Thompson, President of Ringling College. “I used to think you couldn’t teach creativity, but Larry convinced me otherwise. While everybody can bounce a basketball, not everybody can become Michael Jorden. He earned the right to be Michael Jordan by working very hard at the craft. Larry convinced me that there’s little difference between that and creativity, which, of course, is the foundation of all art.”

Even though Tom had a high-powered career with AT&T Wireless and the .com industry, he jokes that he never

worked harder than he does these days thanks to the many nonprofits he partners with and supports. He explains that reality by recalling a luncheon at Michael’s on East in May 2022 at which bestselling author and New York Timers columnist David Brooks said that there are more 501(c) (3)s in Sarasota than there are people. “There’s no lack of opportunity to support different areas here,” Tom says, “but once you find the areas you love, go make a difference.”

Tom serves as Board Emeritus with the Education Foundation of Sarasota County, and he’s currently Board Chair of Sarasota Orchestra. Those are two of his favorite organizations, he notes, but Ringling College will always be the deepest part of his heart. “That’s largely because of my relationship with Larry,” he says, “but it’s also a result of what I’ve seen there—what the students and organization as a whole do. And, of course, it saved my high school building, so there’s definitely a debt of gratitude there.”

When it comes to the arts and education, Tom and Sherry have made a difference. Whether it’s by sponsoring the Tower Gallery on the third floor of the Sarasota Art Museum, establishing the Education Foundation’s endowment fundtopping challenge, or giving $1 million to support the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens’ master plan, they’ve continued to follow the advice given by Tom’s dad—give back to the community that’s been so good to you.

BY LISA CODIANNE FOWLER

a skyline SCULPTING

Did you ever stop and think about how architecture helps shape our cities and by extension our lives? Why our city skyline looks like it does? Well many of our most well-known commercial and residential buildings were designed by one of Sarasota’s premier architectural firms—Hoyt Architects. They have helped make our town live and breathe and have done it with a novel approach.

Gary Hoyt, AIA (the American Institute of Architects) and NCARB (National Council of Architectural Boards) founded the company nearly 30 years ago. He is the President and Design Director of the firm. Ten years ago, he added a valuable partner, Chris Gallagher. Chris (also an AIA and NCARB member) also has 30 years of experience and is Managing Partner and VP of Hoyt Architects.

Rounding out the firm’s leadership team is Associate Principal, George Scarfe. Hoyt’s multidisciplinary team includes Architects, Designers, Planners, Builders, Programmers, and Artists.

The group is focused on Architecture, Urban Design, and Master Planning, and technology has been a key element to their award-winning creations. “We’ve never viewed ourselves as a typical Architecture firm,” Gary says. “We do a wide range of work both locally and internationally and we have always integrated technology as a design tool. Out of that idea has grown two additional companies, and they all interact within our same office building on 2 nd Street in Downtown Sarasota.”

These two companies, both part of their downtown design studio, include HAL (a reference from the classic Sci-fi, AI movie) Hoyt’s Architecture Lab, which is a visualization and research company; and the other is IMERZA, their related tech company that Gary co-founded with Dorian Vee about 10 ten years ago.

“Internally, we really cover a wide range of design and technology,” explains Gary. “At our core, we live and breathe Architecture here, and HAL and IMERZA grew out of the

“We’ve never viewed ourselves as a typical architecture firm. We do a wide range of work both locally and internationally and have always integrated technology as a design tool.”

—GARY HOYT FOUNDING PRINCIPAL OF HOYT ARCHITECTS

MARQUEE EN VILLE

Architecture firm. They were a natural outgrowth, the way we developed our designs. We chose Sarasota as our home base. It has been our laboratory and a good home for us.”

Centers of Energy

With a passion for Sarasota, they designed and/or restored historic icons such as Sarasota’s Bayfront Park, the Belle Haven, the Municipal Auditorium, the original “Sarasota Times Building” on 1st Street, and Ed Smith Stadium. Other Hoyt landmarks include the Selby Library, Patriot Plaza at the National Cemetery, and Hollywood 20. If you have lived here for quite a while, these are familiar and enjoyable haunts among dozens of others created here by Hoyt.

Recent residents appreciate but likely take for granted some of the established newer developments, such as Main Street at Lakewood Ranch, a mixed use commercial and residential center. Today it is a vibrant town center with shopping, restaurants, and condominiums.

Hoyt continues to shape Sarasota with mixed-use and state-of-the-art developments in and around the area. The Mark, for example, encompasses two city blocks of commercial, retail, and residential space. It has a central retailed-oriented breezeway arcade and is part of the overall Pineapple Square development that was designed in conjunction with nationally recognized retail planner Bob Gibbs. The Mark’s elevated pool affords an

oasis overlooking downtown. Numerous chic complexes with similar luxurious amenities have followed. The Jewel, The Pearl, Marina Tower, and Sansara, are just a handful of their elegant creations. The beachfront Sage condominiums are nearing completion on Longboat Key.

Boutique residential condominium projects include 1500 State Street, the Residences at Citrus Square, and Marquee En Ville. Hoyt’s apartment projects include One Palm, BOLD Lofts, The DeSota, and two affordable residential developments for the Sarasota Housing Authority: Amaryllis Park Place and Lofts on Lemon.

If you enjoy dining or shopping, among Hoyt’s many restaurants and shops are Brick’s Smoked Meats, Lila, Oak & Stone, State Street Eating House, Evie’s Tavern, Dimmitt Automotive, Optional Art, Moon Eyeglass, AlexArt International Art Gallery, Eileen Fisher, Bookstore1, Fit2Run, and Studio G Home.

Some of Hoyt’s hotel projects are the downtown Aloft Hotel, Sarasota Modern, Hyatt Siesta Key Beach, and Hyatt Place. Hoyt also recently completed the new corporate headquarters for Lee Wetherington Homes on Fruitville Road.

New projects in construction include the Town Center on Longboat Key, the new One Stop office building for the City of Sarasota, the STRAND, Citrus Square East, the DeMarcay, and affordable apartments at Cypress Square

and McCown Tower for the Sarasota Housing Authority.

On the boards and in the design process are apartments, condominiums, restaurants, a retirement community, hotels, a brewery, shops, parking garages, a research institute, a childcare center, a center for disabled children and adults, an ice-skating rink, and an art gallery.

Building Walkable Cities

What’s next? Gary shares that some of the most overlooked projects are those coming up on North Trail, the future gateway to the city. It’s about time, as he says, and it has great potential. The twoand-a-half-mile corridor of Tamiami Trail stretches from 10 th Street to University Parkway. It is often the first thing visitors see on their way to Sarasota from the airport.

While Gary hasn’t shared specifics, he points out that North Trail can host multifamily complexes, condos, retail, entertainment, and restaurant establishments, adding variety and creating a community and family-based environment. “There are multiple places in the city, and even the county, where you’re starting to see more interesting mixeduse hubs, which define a sense of community in different parts of Sarasota. These emerging areas, often located at larger intersections, will provide unique opportunities for the future of Sarasota.”

Gary explains that for years every city had a Comprehensive Plan that had to be updated every five years. Hoyt was one of the few companies that created new urban redevelopment plans around the state. They did it for Key Largo, Titusville, Margate, Stuart, Dade City, Ft. Walton Beach, Cocoa, Live Oak, Cape Coral, and others around the state. Each community had its own sense of place.

“So, when we look at Architecture, we look at it as part of a master plan, an urban plan, or a mixeduse plan. We look at how a city evolves and how to create a higher quality of life. Our buildings play a role in defining the street…helping it come alive. It’s precisely what happened on Hillview. It’s not downtown, but it has evolved, and I think you’re starting to see that happen in other areas now. I think

SANSARA

BOLD LOFTS

LOFTS ON LEMON

that’s exciting. It makes each individual neighborhood have its own walkable and unique center.”

Distinctive Set of Services

“We really don’t compare ourselves to firms locally because our work scope is quite different. There are few companies in the country that have fully integrated visualization tech into the design process. We study the details.”

The team’s immersive design process involves a set of cohesive services that address Architecture, Urban Design, Planning and Feasibility Analysis, Environmental Planning, and Interior Architecture.

Technically speaking, employing these steps allows the team to fully grasp the design parameters ranging from mass, scale, topography, circulation, sun orientation and lighting, to materials, texture, and finishes for every single project.

So the next time you are walking or driving around town, be sure to notice the beauty and magic one firm has created to help sculpt the skyline of our town.

“We look at how a city evolves and how to create a higher quality of life. Our buildings play a role in defining the street…helping it come alive”

—GARY HOYT FOUNDING PRINCIPAL OF HOYT ARCHITECTS

47 years of real estate come true dreams

Michael Saunders

Michael Saunders & Co Leaps To Success One Day At A Time

by Christy Pessemier

Every morning, when Michael Saunders gets up, she starts her day with ginger and lemon tea, the newspaper in her hand, and a strong sense of purpose.

come true

“We are in a normalizing market,” Saunders said. “I don’t know that we’ll ever see a market like 2021 again. It was drinking from a firehose.”

“I get up every morning thinking about how I can make this company better,” she says.

But Saunders isn’t talking about making the company better in a massive, earth-shattering way. She’s talking about a little bit at a time.

“If you can make yourself 1% better every day by just taking little steps, at the end of the year, you’ve pole vaulted into a huge leap. Your company is 365% better.”

That sense of purpose is what has brought Michael Saunders & Company to where it is today. With 24 branch offices, they are known as the luxury leader in Southwest Florida covering Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and Lee Counties. They’ve also been recognized in the top 15% of real estate firms in the U.S. by RealTrends 500 rankings, and despite being a regional company, they hit #77 in sales volume nationally in 2022.

Even with this amazing amount of success for Michael Saunders & Company, as well as Southwest Florida real estate in general for the past few booming years, headlines about the current real estate market and economy have some people worried. And who better to weigh in on the current state of housing than Saunders herself? She has seen her share of crazy markets, and the good news is she remains optimistic.

According to Saunders, after 2021’s red-hot real estate climate with multiple offers, waived inspection contingencies, and homes purchased sight unseen, it can be challenging getting used to “normal” again.

“The first half of last year was very strong,” she said. “And then the third and fourth quarter fell off the cliff, as it did all around the country.”

Still, Saunders says the Southwest Florida market is more insulated in comparison to other areas around the country, due to cash buyers purchasing homes in all price ranges, from $200,000 to $20 million. Nationally, the cash buying rate ranges from 25% to 31%, on average, while 60% of Michael Saunders & Company’s current buyers are all cash.

Despite this strong protective factor, fear about the economy can spread like wildfire.

“The thing that’s hardest to deal with in every market are the headlines,” Saunders said. “You read the headlines and they are national headlines.”

Though she feels there will be continued challenges, Saunders believes this is a healthy market overall. With the U.S. Census bureau reporting that 444,484 people moved to Florida in 2022, our state was the fastest growing state in the nation last year. And this year, the region’s housing and commercial real estate market is still in full force.

Saunders describes the real estate market as sometimes being a “rollercoaster,” something she’s accustomed to navigating.

Despite her years of experience, wisdom, and immense success, she never would have imagined she would own a real estate company one day.

But she found her way to real estate through a series of events, and an incredible amount of determination.

Saunders earned a degree in history and psychology at Florida State University on a full scholarship. She didn’t want to stop there, though. Her dream was to go to law school, and that meant she’d have to get a fellowship.

“I had a lot of love and encouragement from my parents when I was growing up, but no money.”

She applied and went in person to be interviewed for a fellowship. After waiting for hours in a smoke-filled room full of men to be called back for an interview, she finally asked why they hadn’t called her back yet. Saunders was told fellowships were only given to men who were going to make a career out of law—not women.

“So, I tucked my tail between my legs, came home, and that’s when I got a job teaching. If I’d known then what I know now, my name would be on that law school,” she said.

Though the door to her law school dream had closed, it didn’t stop her from forging a different path ahead. She taught 10th, 11th, and 12th grade at Manatee High School.

She then worked as a probation officer. “I started doing dependency work and counseling after school and on weekends, and I fell in love with it.”

Saunders realized that she was unable to impact the lives of 180 kids through teaching, but she was able to make a big difference in the lives of youth as a probation and parole officer.

“I begged and borrowed things just to get a bicycle for these kids, or tennis shoes so they could play a sport or go to school,” she remembers.

When it came time to make a career change, Saunders felt real estate was a perfect choice. It was another

area where she felt she could make a difference—one in which people were making the most important decisions of their lives.

When she started Michael Saunders and Company 47 years ago, Saunders came into the real estate world accustomed to solving complex challenges.

“I got into the business in 1972, and it was the Wild West. It was buyers beware, sellers beware, no one dressed professionally, and no office looked professional,” she remembers. “I thought, I can do this, and I can take all these skills that I got from working with children, motivating them to make a difference.”

Starting out in real estate required a strong connection with the local community. She found this in the relationships she’d built while working as a probation officer with the local police, clergy, business owners, and attorneys.

She wrote notes to the people she made connections with saying: “Hello, you knew me as a probation and parole officer. I loved the time we spent together helping our children. But now, I’m in real estate. If you have any need, please give me a call.” And the referrals started pouring in.

At the time, Saunders was working as a real estate agent under a broker. She’d just been asked to list Tiffany Plaza on Longboat Key. She was thrilled. There were 42 listings in the building. It was on the water, and it was gorgeous. But her broker didn’t share her enthusiasm.

“He told me I was crazy. He asked me if I knew about a thing called red tide; then he reminded me about interest rates, and the lines for gas because fuel was scarce at the time. He said he wasn’t interested, and it wasn’t going to sell.”

That was the turning point she needed.

“I looked at him and thought, this is my reason to leave,” Saunders said. “There weren’t the values or the standards of continuing to raise the bar.”

That’s when she decided to go out on her own, and she narrowed down what her purpose and focus for the company would be.

“I’m going to start a company based on something very different. And I’m going to only sell waterfront, and I’m going to hire the right people, and they’re going to be value-based.”

MICHAEL SAUNDERS & DRAYTON SAUNDERS.

PHOTO BY BARBARA BANKS.

“As a woman, I had to work harder,” she said. “But I never felt that being a woman meant it was hard. It was challenging. I felt I’d earned a seat at the table, and I deserved to be at that table, and they respected me. So, in this community, and nationally, and internationally, I made a spot for myself as a woman and a leader.”

“It’s about never, ever, ever giving up. I never gave up. I have a lot of grit.”

Having fond memories of being raised on Longboat Key in the quieter days before the first bridge to Anna Maria Island was built, she relishes her childhood memories of the magical place Longboat Key was for her. Saunders grew up on the water and worked in her father’s marina, and she wanted to help others experience that same wonder that living on the water in Southwest Florida brings.

“We sold only the waterfront because I knew the waterfront.”

As time went on, Saunders established a name and a reputation for herself and her company. People started telling her Michael Saunders & Company was the only company they trusted to list their homes. She expanded from a luxury and waterfront specialist to listing all price ranges of homes.

All along the way, as the company grew, Saunders insisted on building it by staying focused on their top values: integrity, excellence, communication, and mutual profitability.

She raised her son, Drayton Saunders, as a single mom while building the company. When Drayton was a child in the 1970s, he thought real estate was boring, and was more interested in untangling the phone cord when his mom was on the phone with clients. Today, Drayton is President of the company and has an office down the hall from Michael.

“As a child, I had no real concept of what my mom did,” he said. “Paving my way, I had to go and do

other things—later discovering an appreciation of what real estate really was, and how fabulous this business is.”

Among the other things Drayton did was starting and running a bagel and coffee shop in Santiago, Chile, for eight years while in his twenties.

“When I was running the bagel and coffee shop, I loved what I did on some level, but it was tough to get alignment as a team in the food service industry,” he said. “When I came back in 2003, I saw that my mom had built a reputation for being the best of the best in this market. Even though I said I would never do it when I was younger, it was the best decision I ever made.”

Though the two are close, they are very different. Each of them has unique strengths and they complement each other. Drayton says the things he’s learned the most from his mom are doing what you’re passionate about and being an engaged listener.

“Watching her, I’m often reminded that you always learn more by listening, rather than giving an answer,” he said. “She is someone I know that has mastered that skill, and that’s a big part of why she’s successful.”

Saunders has been on panels with other real estate titans like Dottie Herman and Barbara Corcoran and speaks to crowds of 2,000 and more people. But despite her many connections, and influence far and wide, she loves coming back home to her roots—Sarasota.

She continues to mentor agents, and says she loves any moment when she can be with agents in the company. As of now, there are over 600. When she overhears an agent commenting, “I work for Michael Saunders,” she says “No, no, no—you’ve got that wrong. I work for you !”

It’s all about listening and learning, while also showing them how to help their clients understand this market.

Saunders reminds people that, despite the doom-andgloom housing market forecasts that often make the headlines lately, the 50-year average interest rate is 7%.

“That’s an attractive rate. And if rates go down, you can refinance. My thinking is if you’ve found something that creates the lifestyle you want, and you can afford it, you should buy it.”

After 47 years of running one of the most successful real estate companies in the country, she knows what she’s talking about.

“There is not a bad time to buy,” she says. “Having a home that makes a difference in how you feel when you come home at night, when your friends come to visit, that emotional part of home ownership—how do you put a price on it?”

Though she says she’s still working on work-life balance because she adores what she does, Saunders is having a lot of fun spending time with her grandchildren these days. Drayton’s three children Kinsley (7), Beckett (6), and the latest addition, Emerson, are her pride and joy.

A few Saturdays ago, while Saunders was helping Kinsley decide what special items to bring to school for a spotlight on her life, Kinsley’s brother, Beckett, suggested a few items. He then chimed in and asked if he could bring something that doesn’t cost money.

“Sure, you can,” Saunders assured him.

“Well, if it doesn’t have to cost money, I’d take happiness.”

Though this story explains something very special to her, it also sums up why Saunders loves the massive world she’s created of people and real estate—she also loves making people happy.

And who wouldn’t be happy buying their dream home, on the water, in Southwest Florida, in our beautiful slice of paradise. Mission accomplished, Michael!

“Having a home that makes a difference in how you feel when you come home at night, when your friends come to visit, that emotional part of home ownership—how do you put a price on it?”

ISLAND PARADISE ON SIESTA KEY $22,000,000

3799 Flamingo Ave, Sarasota

4 BR/4.5+ BA

8,138 sq. ft. | 1.4-acre lot

Luxury High

The weather isn’t the only sizzling thing in Sarasota. Our real estate market is still hot and flying high.

And who among us doesn’t love a peak at our top luxury properties for sale?

As of April 19, 2023, these are our highest priced (active) single family homes.

PRIVATE SANDY WALKING BEACH

$18,000,000

2305 Casey King Rd., Nokomis

6 BR/5.5 BA

9,046 sq. ft. | .9-acre lot

ONE-OF-A-KIND “TWEENWATER” ESTATE

$17,000,000

1312 Casey Key Rd., Nokomis

6 BR/7.5 BA

6,907 sq. ft. | .94-acre lot

PRIVATE RESORT-LIKE COMPOUND

$16,800,000

8218 Sanderling Rd., Sarasota

6 BR/7.5 BA

10,624 sq. ft. | 4.45-acre lot

SIESTA KEY PENINSULA BEAUTY

$15,950,000

1414 Point Crisp Rd, Sarasota

6 BR/8.5 BA

7,162 sq. ft. | 1.2-acre lot

REACHES FOR THE STARS

Asolo Rep with

By Scott Ferguson • Photos by Nancy Guth

Peter Rothstein, director of Asolo Rep’s critically acclaimed productions of the musicals Ragtime and Sweeney Todd, has returned to Sarasota to direct Man of La Mancha. The musical, which premiered on Broadway in 1965, is a reimagining of Miguel de Cervantes’ 17th century story of a Spanish country gentleman who transforms himself into a knight errant and sets out on an improbable quest.

The original book, The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha , is considered by many to be the first modern novel and is one of literature’s most translated works. The musical, which features Cervantes as a character, has become a staple of the American musical theater canon. Rothstein directed a 2017 production of La Mancha at Theater Latté Da in Minneapolis, where he is founding artistic director.

Running at Asolo Rep May 10 through June 11, 2023, La Mancha will be the last musical Rothstein will helm as a guest director, although he will continue to direct some Asolo Rep productions after he succeeds Michael Donald Edwards on July 1 as producing artistic director of the venerable regional theater.

Man of La Mancha, with book by Dale Wasserman, music by Mitch Leigh and lyrics by Joe Darion, is perhaps best known for its soaring signature song, “The Impossible Dream.” Its lofty lyrics (“To dream the impossible dream... to reach the unreachable star!”) speak of Don Quixote’s noble but seemingly unachievable quest. Does his earnest striving for a better world reflect his madness or reveal his idealism?

Rothstein notes that Wasserman felt that the message of the song — recorded by Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis

Jr., Elvis Presley (in his Vegas period) and countless other crooners — is often misinterpreted.

“Wasserman believed the phrase, ‘the impossible dream,’ was too often co-opted,” says Rothstein, “and used to describe an attainable dream — just something that’s difficult to achieve, like getting a great return on your stocks, or acquiring an even faster computer. But what he (and lyricist Joe Darion) really meant was that Don Quixote’s dream truly is impossible, and that reaching for the impossible is what makes human beings heroic.”

Rothstein says the song and the show inspire us to reach high, to strive for what cannot possibly be achieved.

“The impossible is world peace, the end of global warming, a world where everyone truly has equal access to an education. And while those goals won’t be achieved in my lifetime, or yours, the striving for them — the quest — is what should propel us through the day. That is a hero’s journey.”

While the production honors the original script and musical score, Rothstein has set the play in a modern detention center instead of a gloomy 17 th century dungeon. While the prisoners being held will soon face the tyranny of the Spanish Inquisition for their alleged

crimes, the nondescript concrete block room of this production has the look of a 21 st century purgatory — “this is the common room, for those who wait,” says the official who logs in new prisoners like Cervantes. But the setting is just a starting point, a frame, says Rothstein.

“We use a few simple props to trigger the imagination and propel us into the fantastical world of Don Quixote. The production design includes extensive use of video projections – a technical innovation that the creators of the original Broadway production wouldn’t have had access to when the musical premiered in 1965. While we employ the visual tools available to us today, the imagery reflects the era of the novel — the early 17 th century.”

There are many layers to the musical. When his fellow detainees attempt to steal a trunk with his belongings and destroy his most coveted possession — the unfinished manuscript of his novel Don Quixote . One of the prisoners suggests putting Cervantes on trial, with his fellow prisoners serving as the jury. He is charged with being “an idealist, a bad poet, and an honest man.” If the jury acquits him, he will get to keep his treasures,

so he conjures up an idea to dramatize his defense. He proposes to put on a play, casting the captives as characters to tell the story .

In the play within the play, Cervantes portrays the gentleman Alonzo Quijano, who assumes the identity of Don Quixote. The gentleman/knight’s exploits are celebrated in song — and in some cases satirized — by the other prisoners/characters in the musical. The characters in the inner play include Quixote’s loyal squire/sidekick, Sancho Panza, who provides much of the comic relief; Aldonza, a prostitute he idealizes as the pure Dulcinea (the subject of a tender ballad that is turned into a cruel chant to mock Quixote’s naiveté); and a kind of Greek chorus of cynical ruffians called the Muleteers, who do most of the mocking.

“Quixote is reaching back to a time of chivalry,” says Rothstein. “He’s looking back to a time when, as he sees it, we treated each other with more grace, with more kindness, where we saw value in every human being.”

But alongside its message of radical idealism, he adds, “the play is also very funny,” noting the way the story and

the songs showcase human foibles as well as quixotic quests. “It’s filled with wit, delightful characters and physical comedy.”

Rothstein loves that theater is an art form that allows actors, directors, designers, and other creative collaborators who stage a show like La Mancha to “bring their own sensibilities to it and interpret it for their own time and their own community.”

The 14-person cast includes Mauricio Martínez as Miguel de Cervantes/Don Quixote, Aaron De Jesus as Sancho, and Janely Rodriguez as Aldonza, all making their Asolo Rep debut. Martínez is an Emmy-winning Mexican actor and recording artist who was most recently seen on Broadway playing the role of Emilio Estefan in On Your Feet! . His television work includes Señora Acero (Telemundo), over 10 telenovelas with Televisa (Univision), The Kennedy Center Honors and The Gershwin Prize (PBS).

De Jesus has a wide range of theater credits, most recently completing a 10-year run of Jersey Boys, playing Four Seasons lead singer Frankie Valli. Rodriguez has worked with several theater companies in the Twin

“Reaching for the impossible is what makes human beings heroic.”

– MAN OF LA MANCHA DIRECTOR PETER ROTHSTEIN

Cities area, including Theater Latté Da, Children’s Theatre Company, Ten Thousand Things and Artistry Theater.

When La Mancha premiered on Broadway, the sounds of a Flamenco guitar helped set the mood of Cervantes’ Spanish story, as they do in this production — along with piano, trumpet, reeds, French horn, upright bass, and drums, under the musical direction of Jenny Kim-Godfrey.

“In this musical, Cervantes, our hero, enters a room devoid of hope, where people are in a place of total despair,” says Rothstein. “And through the course of telling his story, he wins them over. They enter in, they participate...and in the end, they are changed. Or perhaps not changed but reawakened to a more innocent time in their life, a more optimistic time. The world is heavy right now, and this show is about replacing despair with hope.”

If they come with open hearts and minds, Rothstein believes the audience, too, will be inspired by the story.

“The piece itself is a celebration of the art of theate r and the transformative power of communal storytelling. By telling this story and inviting the audience to enter in, we open the door to change, to expand one’s worldview.”

Rothstein’s fervent wish is that, whether people have seen other productions or are discovering the show for the first time, they will be moved by the experience.

“I hope people who love Man of La Mancha will come and fall in love with it all over again, and perhaps find a new sense of urgency to this telling of it. And to those people who’ve never seen the show before, I would say this is one of the greatest musicals of all time, and that the story of Don Quixote remains, four hundred years later, one of the most important works in Western literature.... and for good reason.”

For tickets and more information, visit AsoloRep.org.

Asolo Rep’s 2023-24 season: Who could ask for anything more?

Next season will be Peter Rothstein’s first as Asolo Rep’s producing artistic director. He notes that while the season will explore serious topics and present hard-hitting drama, “it is also filled with joy. There’s a lot of great comedy and wit because people are looking for light and hope. So that’s the balance.” Here is a look at Asolo Rep’s balancing act, with Rothstein’s take on each of the shows.

Crazy for You

November 15, 2023 - January 4, 2024

Music and Lyrics by George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin; Book by Ken Ludwig; Co-Conception by Ken Ludwig and Mike Ockrent; Inspired by Material by Guy Bolton and John McGowan; Directed and Choreographed by Josh Rhodes; Music Direction and Additional Arrangements by Angela Steiner

The season’s tagline, “Who Could Ask for Anything More?” comes from Ira Gershwin’s lyrics to his brother George’s melody for “I Got Rhythm,” one of the many Gershwin songs featured in Crazy for You, which kicks off Asolo Rep’s next season. The toe-tapping romantic musical comedy is based in part on a 1930 production, Girl Crazy — which starred Ginger Rodgers and introduced Ethel Merman to Broadway — and was the inspiration for this 1992 show. The songs in both shows include “Someone to Watch Over Me,” “Embraceable You,” and “But Not for Me.” Crazy for You adds Gershwin songs from other musicals, including “They Can’t Take That Away from Me” and “Nice Work if You Can Get it.”

Peter Rothstein: “While the songs are from another time, the book of the musical is relatively new. A lot of our early ‘golden age’ musicals are hard to produce now as written, because of dated gender representation. What’s great about Crazy for You is that it has all the charm and humor and nostalgia of a good old-fashioned musical, but it’s written with more modern sensibilities.”

Inherit The Wind

January 17 - February 24, 2024

By Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee; Directed by Peter Rothstein

Based on the infamous “Scopes Monkey Trial,” an actual 1925 Tennessee case that charged a Tennessee teacher with violating a state law against teaching evolution, Inherit the Wind is an explosive courtroom drama that pits the fictional lawyers Henry Drummond and Matthew Brady (based on the actual attorneys who faced off in the case, Clarence Darrow for the defense and William Jennings Bryan for the prosecution).

Rothstein: “The play is a nuanced conversation about censorship in America – what we are and more importantly what we are not allowed to teach in our education systems,” he says. “It is also about the media’s role in our political discourse and judicial process.”

Born With Teeth

The Alley Theatre World Premiere Production

February 7 - March 29, 2024

By Liz Duffy Adams; Directed by Rob Melrose

Did Shakespeare and Marlowe ever collaborate? Some theories postulate that they worked together to pen three plays about King Henry VI. Part 3 of the trilogy includes these lines, spoken by Richard, Duke of Gloucester, after he stabs Henry:

The midwife wonder’d and the women cried “O, Jesus bless us, he is born with teeth!” And so I was; which plainly signified That I should snarl and bite and play the dog.

The play is an imagined meeting of the two creative minds, and as the title implies, there is snarling wordplay and biting wit. On its website, Asolo Rep invites audiences to “grab a drink with William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe as you get an inside peek at the tumultuous relationship of two of history’s greatest playwrights, each harboring momentous secrets.”

Rothstein: “I found the language, the characters, and the psychological dance of these two theatrical giants totally riveting. I am thrilled to share this fantastic new play with Sarasota audiences.”

Intimate Apparel

February 28 - April 18, 2024

By Lynn Nottage; Directed by Austene Van

Lynn Nottage, one of America’s most-produced playwrights and the winner of two Pulitzer Prizes for Drama (2009 and 2017), wrote this “searing, sensual, and powerful story of forbidden romance,” as Asolo Rep describes it:

“Esther, a Black seamstress in 1905 New York seeking love and companionship, spends her days sewing corsets for other women but hasn’t found love for herself. When she receives a letter from a Barbadian man working on the Panama Canal, Esther kindles an exchange that leads to marriage with a stranger, even while her heart

is drawn to a Jewish shop owner who’s promised to another woman. Nottage’s lyrical and heart wrenching play is a modern classic about the power of human connection.”

Rothstein: “This is a beautiful play – a poignant and poetic exploration of self-identity and forbidden love.”

Dial ‘M’ For Murder

March 20 - April 25, 2024

Adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher from the original play by Frederick Knott; Directed by Céline Rosenthal

What happens when “the perfect crime” is not so perfect? The answer comes in Jeffrey Hatcher’s new version of the classic suspense story. As Asolo Rep summarizes it, this “classic thriller of blackmail and revenge, the basis for Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic movie, is given a stylish, intoxicating update in Jeffrey Hatcher’s brand-new adaptation. In 1950s London, a husband plots to murder his wife, but when his plan goes awry, he must scramble to keep from getting caught. Will he get away with it, or will justice be served? Only one way to find out.”

Rothstein: “Dial M for Murder is one of the great murder mysteries of all time, and this new adaptation by Jeffrey Hatcher delivers even more intrigue, more suspense and more surprise.”

Twelve Angry Men: A New Musical

The Theater Latté Da World Premiere Production

May 8 - June 9, 2024

Adapted from the play by Reginald Rose; Music and Lyrics by Michael Holland; Book by David Simpatico; Directed by Peter Rothstein; Choreography by Kelli Foster-Warder; Music Direction by Jenny Kim-Godfrey

When an inner-city teenager is accused of murder, will a jury find him guilty beyond a reasonable doubt?

As described by Asolo Rep, “Propelled by a jazz-infused score, one of America’s greatest dramas reaches new heights in this searing story of a lone juror who demands that our legal system lives up to our ideals... You will feel the power and hope of America in this groundbreaking musical about our potential to work together to create a better world.”

Rothstein: “Much of my career has been about expanding the boundaries of musical storytelling. I have been working with the creators of Twelve Angry Men: A New Musical for the past five years; I am thrilled to share it with Sarasota audiences in my first season.”

For tickets and more information about Asolo Rep’s next season, visit asolorep.org/season-tickets/2023-24-season.

As always, Asolo Rep’s upcoming season promises to entertain, enlighten, and inspire us. Who could ask for anything more?

tH e 25 t H A nnu A l sA r A s O t A f ilm f estivA l

That was the tag line of the 25 th annual Sarasota Film Festival, and in many ways that statement was so true.

As I took in this year’s silver anniversary festival, I reminisced about the prior 24 festivals which I attended as either a journalist or a filmmaker as well as its number one fan.

Yes, there have been some changes over the years for both Sarasota and the Sarasota Film Festival (SFF). The town has grown so much over these years and so has the festival.

While still a charming and nationally respected festival, it has thankfully recaptured some of the momentum it lost over the pandemic years. It was great to see people once again enjoying and engaging in cinema on big screens all around town. And by all around town, I mean all around town. With screenings at The Sarasota Opera House; CMX Ciné Bistro Siesta Key; the Municipal Auditorium, and at Burns Court Cinemas, Sarasota Film Festival 25 was everywhere and all at once.

But mostly this festival was a collaborative effort – the essential ingredient in filmmaking. In particular, the collaboration with Burns Court and the Sarasota Film Society warmed my heart. I am hopeful it provided a glimpse into what the film landscape in Sarasota will look like in the future as an industry battles to introduce new patrons and bring back those lost to streaming. After all, cinema theaters are an old friend and the classic and best way to see cinema—on the big screen and with other people.

With SFF, I had the opportunity to introduce several films, facilitate the question-and-answer sessions that followed—a staple of any good and viable film festival.

But more than that, it gave cinema fans a chance to meet and engage with filmmakers who went on their filmmaking journeys to create their own works of art.

I was honored to moderate a “Q and A” session at the Municipal Auditorium for the powerful and original film, The Conspiracy, by Director Maxim Pozdorovkin. The film shined a light on specious conspiracies and antisemitism, which sadly is always a timely subject. Both the film and the interview afterward with producer Caroline Hirsch and prominent civic leaders provided a community forum for a thought provoking and sobering discussion. Hirsch, herself the founder of the iconic Caroline’s Comedy Club in New York, helped produce this serious and important film that was stunningly created using bold and innovative animation.

I was delighted to see a theater full of enthusiastic film fans laughing together during a showing of the crowdpleasing Late Bloomers. It proved to me once again how important it is to see films with other people. There’s that word again – collaborative. A film is scarier, more thought provoking, funnier and just more impactful when you watch it with other people. It is a collaborative effort and the laughs landed early and often with the crowd as they watched Late Bloomers . It truly was wonderful to hear people laughing together in a movie theater . It was also a wonderful sight to see familiar faces who had become friends over the years.

d irect O r mA xim pO zd O r O vkin

O f tHe cOnspirAcy

With film director Barbara Kopple I share a special bond—our admiration and mutual friendship with the incomparable composer, musician, and a force of nature—David Amram. For those who do not know him, Amram has worked with everyone from Jack Kerouac to Dizzy Gillespie, while scoring the original Manchurian Candidate and Kazan’s Splendor in the Grass. A few years back, I was honored to help bring him to the Sarasota Film Festival where he was introduced and given a lifetime achievement award by none other than Barbara Kopple.

Kopple herself is a splendor in filmmaking. A documentary filmmaker extraordinaire with two Oscars to prove it (1977’s Harlan County and 1991’s American Dream), she is a hard-working filmmaker who consistently delivers new subjects and compelling stories. She always comes back to Sarasota Film Festival to unveil her latest project. And this year was no different as she brought her powerful film Gumbo Coalition to the festival.

It was also great to see former Sarasota Film Festival Director Tom Hall and former SFF Senior Programmer Holly Herrick receive a special award from SFF President Mark Famiglio as recognition for helping to shape the festival into the respected film force it is today. Had it not been for the tireless and painstaking efforts of Mark

Famiglio over many years, the Sarasota Film Festival would not have made it this far and for sure would have qualified in the shorts category as opposed to being considered a formidable film festival.

For the best part of SFF’s 25 years, I would catch the flashing celluloid images of light, color, and shadows with a group of five friends. Our “film posse.” It included Ann, Billy, Amy, and Becky. Often the five of us would sit together taking in as many films as possible to the point of blurred vision. We would also partake in the extravagant parties where we would meet the young filmmakers and stars creating our own undocumented documentary of sorts and a history of a film festival that we all loved and a place and time where we had all fell in love with each other and became film friends. Sadly, Billy is no longer with us. And Ann is unable to attend. Still, the memories we collaborated on will live within us and continue today. I smiled when Amy said, “ Can I have this seat? ” as we took in the impressive Little Richard documentary, I Am Everything

Yes indeed. The More Things Change, The More Things Stay The Same.

Filmmaker and educator K.T. Curran brought her powerful film Bridge to the Other Side to SFF. Curran, who has local roots, also directed the 2019 film Surviving

Amy wA rren, gus m O ll A sis, becky b O llett i,

A nd filmm A ker sHA un g reenspA n.

rb

r

k O pple & gus m O ll A sis.

Lunch which dealt with the subjects of bullying and gun violence. She turned her focus to the often-stigmatic subject of mental illness. Produced using both actors from outside the area as well as many talented actors from this region, Bridge to the Other Side played to two sell-out crowds—one at Cine Bistro, where I was honored to serve as moderator, and the other at the Municipal Auditorium. Those in attendance were engaged in necessary and effective filmmaking from a director who not only makes good films but also films that help make us better people.

One of the best people I have ever met at any of the film festivals I have ever attended is without a doubt Roma Downey. She is an actor, author, director, and herself a powerhouse Hollywood producer responsible for creating wholesome and holy works that millions upon millions of souls have taken communion with over the years. But to me, when I first met Roma at the charming luncheon hosted by the Bijou Garden Café, what impressed me the most was her calm, gentle manner, and kindness when she spoke. Dare I say her angelic demeanor? She was after all responsible for creating the character of Monica opposite Della Reese’s Tess in the ultra-successful CBS TV Series Touched by An Angel. At the Q & A that followed her inspirational talk, one thoughtful attendee asked, “Do you think that Touched by An Angel could be shown on CBS today?”

After a thoughtful pause she said, “I don’t know. I’m not sure.” Another attendee chimed in and was met with a rousing applause after commenting, “It’s just what we all need right now.”

As it turns out her feature film that would close out the festival was just what the doctor, make that what the angel, ordered. When I saw that “On a Wing and Prayer,” her film starring Dennis Quaid and directed by Sean McNamara, was the closing night film, once again I smiled. The movie is based on a true story of a man, who on Easter Sunday must safely land a plane with his family on board after the pilot has died in flight.

As I watched at the Opera House, I flashed back 25 years to a time and place when I penned my book On a Wing and Prayer and my inspirational journey with my Detroit Red Wings to capture an elusive Stanley Cup.

The More Things Change, The More Things Stay The Same.

As Roma Downey’s story washed over me at the Sarasota Film Festival on Palm Sunday, I was moved by its harrowing story and hopeful message. And yes, I was moved by the gal from Ireland who fashions herself, like many of her Irish ancestors, as a storyteller. And that she is. But she is much more than that. As I watched

with Becky, one third of my film posse sitting next to me, and Amy the other third in the row in front of me, I couldn’t help but be moved by the goodness that filled the room on this holy day. Maybe she truly is an angel. And I know I am not the only one who felt that they were touched by the work of this angel.

As another SFF winded down and I left the Opera House, I caught a glimpse of SFF President and Chairman Mark Famiglio with renowned filmmaker Alexandria Bombach. I had bumped into Ms. Bombach at the Ringling College Studio Lab Open House a couple of days earlier. While standing there and chatting with the impressive Ringling professor Patrick Alexander in front of the coffee set up, I heard Bombach quip, “Are you guys guarding the coffee?” We both laughed.

As I stared at Bombach and Mark Famiglio chatting in the sunshine, I realized I had not seen her film It’s Only Life After All , a film on the popular folk-rock band The Indigo Girls. Admittedly I knew little about them or their music. I was wiped out and all filmed out. The debate in my mind grew—should I see it or not.

Then I had a flashback of the last day of a festival from years past. That day I was blurry eyed and tired. Still, I was coaxed by my film posse to take in one last film. The film was Locke, a 2013 film starring Tom Hardy about a man who deals with every conceivable aspect of his life on one long car ride. It is still one of my favorite films from a Sarasota Film Festival.

Encouraged and feeling my second wind, I decided sleep would have to wait. There was indeed one more film to see. I ducked my head into the front row of a packed Burns Court theater and waited for the lights to go down. But before they did, the director of the film Alexandria Bombach, saw me and said, “Still guarding the coffee?” We both smiled.

Yes, sleep would have to wait. There was indeed one more film to see. And It’s Only Life After All.

And there it ended. The 25 th Sarasota Film Festival.

Yes. The More Things Change, The More Things Stay The Same.

GUSSIE AWARDS

tH e f O ll O wing films HAve received my AwA rd c A lled “ tH e g ussie” f O r excellence in filmm A king. tH ey A re films t HA t m O ved me, m A de me l A ug H , cry, O r t H ink, A nd presented in n O pA rticul A r O rder by g ussie s pielberg mO ll A sis.

The Conspiracy Innovative and powerful documentary ; Director Maxim Pozdorovkin

On A Wing and A Prayer Hopeful and spiritual narrative; Director Sean McNamara

Gumbo Coalition Powerful documentary on two innovative civil rights leaders; Director Barbara Kopple

Invisible Beauty —Profile on fashion revolutionary and activist; Directors Bethann Hardison & Frederic Tcheng

It’s Only Life After All —Engaging documentary on folk rock duo The Indigo Girls; Director Alexandria Bombach

Bridge to The Other Side —Powerful and important narrative on mental health crisis; Director KT Curran

Other People’s Children —Engaging film about one woman’s rewards and regrets regarding having her own family; Director Rebecca Zlotowski

Late Bloomers —Hilarious comedy with life lessons learned when a young woman encounters a cranky elderly Polish woman; Director Lisa Steen

Little Richard: I Am Everything —Fascinating expose on one of Rock’s architects; Director Lisa Cortes

It Ain’t Over —Documentary on the incomparable Yogi Berra ; Director Sean Mullin

Fairyland —Powerful story of young girl growing up in San Francisco with her gay dad; Director Andrew Durham

La Gaceta —100 years/3 generations behind America’s only trilingual newspaper; Director Lynn Marvin Dingfelder

Run, Raven, Run —Fascinating documentary on the history on survival of Gypsies and their music; Director Michael Rainin

The Red Suitcase —Extraordinary Short about arranged marriages; Director Cyrus Neshvad

e DU c Ation matters

SARASOTA ORCHESTRA’S MUSIC EDUCATION PROGRAM

By Simone Knego

For over 70 years, Sarasota Orchestra has been captivating music enthusiasts from around the world with exceptional performances and music education programs. Originally founded as The Florida West Coast Symphony in 1948, the symphony rebranded in 2008, taking the name Sarasota Orchestra and launching a new concert series and innovative concert formats. Sarasota Orchestra is committed to three main objectives: providing exquisite performances, delivering top-notch musical education, and engaging with the community through outreach initiatives.

Sarasota Orchestra’s music education program offers many opportunities, including Sarasota Youth Orchestras, founded in 1959, comprising eight student ensembles, and the annual Summer Music Camp. Additionally, the Orchestra provides scholarships for music lessons and sponsors several outreach programs. One of its long-standing traditions, the Young Person’s Concerts, has been held since 1953 and brings the magic of symphonic music to nearly 10,000 fourth and fifth graders in Sarasota and Manatee County every fall. The Summer Music Camp program was added in 1977.

The symphony’s founders understood the importance of training the next generation of musicians and audiences, which is still the goal today. The education programs aim to develop talented musicians and cultivate a love for music and support for the arts among young people.

According to Alyson Rozier, Director of Education for Sarasota Orchestra, “We know the statistics. We know the outcomes. Music education not only prepares the mind and fosters social skills but also instills the warmth and joy of participating in something greater than oneself. In a world where individual achievement is celebrated, music teaches the importance of teamwork. The ultimate goal is not about one person but the

collective harmony of 30-80 individuals playing in unison.”

This year, the Summer Music Camp is scheduled for July 10th to the 21st at the Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center and is designed for children interested in learning to play musical instruments. The program is split into two sessions, with string instruments being taught in the morning from 9 am to 12 pm and band instruments in the afternoon from 1 pm to 4 pm. Children entering third through 12th grade are welcome to join the string instruments session, while the band instruments session is open to those entering sixth grade up to 12th grade (ages 11 to 19).

The two-week program is affordable, costing $200 for intensive instruction. Thanks to the generosity of their donors, Sarasota Orchestra offers scholarship opportunities so that no child will be turned away due to financial difficulties. Rozier said, “We want to make music accessible to everyone. More than 50% of our students will

receive scholarship money to attend camp. They receive anywhere from 20% of tuition to the full $200. In addition, we probably offer between 30 to 50 instrument loans for the summer.”

The summer camp welcomes true beginners, so no prior experience with any instrument is necessary. The two-week program is unique as it provides a full ensemble experience, a technique class tailored to the same instrument and level, and an elective class every day. The elective courses vary each year but are all music-related, such as rhythm, music theory, ear training, African drumming, jazz improvisation, and jazz band. For parents whose children are considering exploring music, the summer program offers an excellent opportunity to try out different instruments and determine which their child prefers. The summer camp culminates with a concert for families to showcase what the children have learned during the 10-day program.

According to Rozier, “Every year on the last day of camp, there’s always a child crying in the hallway because they don’t want camp to end. Many parents tell us that their kids love coming to our camp so much that they jump out of bed in the morning ready to go, even when they have to be coaxed to attend other camps or school. This is a testament to the

“We don’t necessarily aim to create professional musicians, but we will support and guide students if that is their goal. Our primary focus is to help students grow and develop a love for music that will stay with them forever.”

type of program we offer and how much the children enjoy it.” It’s also an excellent way for the kids to meet children from other schools in both Sarasota and Manatee County that are passionate about music.

The summer program offers an excellent pathway for young musicians. Many students start in the summer camp and have such a positive experience that they choose to continue with the year-round program, Sarasota Youth Orchestras. This program has eight ensembles, and every year students must audition to be accepted. On average, individuals remain part of each ensemble for two years, developing mastery in musical playing skills and techniques and enhancing their self-motivation, leadership abilities, and personal growth. In addition, students are coached by members of Sarasota Orchestra, and the String Ensembles can participate in a musicianship class aimed at developing their inner rhythm and style.

Similar to their summer camp, they provide loaner instruments, and scholarships are available to all students. However, for Sarasota Youth Orchestras, students must have some prior experience and meet specific gradelevel requirements. In addition, the program allows for skill development and exploration of new music literature and techniques. Many of their faculty members are alums of the program, which is a testament to its success. Rozier continues, “We don’t necessarily aim to create

professional musicians, but we will support and guide students if that is their goal. Our primary focus is to help students grow and develop a love for music that will stay with them forever.” Sarasota Youth Orchestras runs from September to April, with different ensembles meeting on various days depending on the level.

One example of Sarasota Youth Orchestra’s many success stories is a young musician named Luca Stine, who started playing the violin at the summer camp many years ago. He eventually joined the youth orchestra program and also began playing the trumpet. His experience with the summer camp ignited his passion for jazz and set him on the path to becoming a jazz trumpet major at the University of Miami, where he is about to graduate. Luca now performs around town with his jazz ensemble and is making a name for himself.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

about the summer camp or Sarasota Youth Orchestras, please contact Alyson Rozier at arozier@sarasotaorchestra.org, or visit www.sarasotaorchestra.org.

se A ts

artist series concerts

941.306.1200/artistseriesconcerts.org

Vivaldi and Mendelssohn

May 9

Viola Royale

May 14

Cameron Crozman, Cello

Meagan Milatz, Piano

Apr. 27

asolo rep

941.351.8000/asolorep.org

Man of La Mancha

May 10 - Jun 11

circus arts conservatory

941.556.5349/circusarts.org

Wonderball

May 12

florida studio theatre

941.366.9000/ floridastudiotheatre.org

WINTER MAINSTAGE:

Visit Joe Whitefeather (and bring the family!)

Through May 21

WINTER CABARET:

Reel Music

Through Jun 25

key chorale

941.921.4845/keychorale.org

A Sea Symphony

Through Jun 30

Grace: The Spirit of Aretha

May 8

lemon bay playhouse

941.475.6756/lemonbayplayhouse.com

The Amateur Killer

Through May 14

manatee performing arts center

941.749.1111/ manateeperformingartscenter.com

Sunset Boulevard

Through May 14

Annie Kids

May 6

DraMature Presents: Hollywood 1940’s USO Radio Musical

May 9-10

mccurdy’s comedy theatre

941.925.3869/mccurdyscomedy.com

Bob Phillips

May 3-7

La Hardy

May 10-14

Mike Paramore

May 17-21

Monty Franklin

May 24-27

Drag Queen Bingo

May 28

Open Bar Comedy

May 30

the players center for performing arts

941.365.2494/theplayers.org

Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!

May 5-6

the sarasota ballet

941.359.0099/sarasotaballet.org

Images of Dance

May 2

sarasota orchestra

941.953.4253/sarasotaorchestra.org

Musical Postcards

May 13

sarasota performing arts center

941.953.3368/vanwezel.org

RAIN: A Tribute to The Beatles

May 5

Grace the Spirit of Aretha

May 8

Melissa Etheridge

May 10

The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA

May 11

Tom Jones: Ages + Stages

May 13

Cinderella

May 14

urbanite theatre

941.321.1397/ urbanitetheatre.com

Modern Works Festival

May 3-7

venice performing arts center

941.218.3779/

veniceperformingartscenter.com

Cash, the Killer and the King

May 6

VHS Chorus Spring Concert

May 9

VHS Jazz and JV Bands Spring Concert

May 10

Portugese & Italian Cuisine

Our New Location — “A Little Gem” “We are pleased to bring to Sarasota our expanded menu featuring Portuguese cuisine from our home country. Please come and enjoy. We still have your Italian favorites!” —Tito

VHS Bands Spring Concert

May 11

VHS Orchestra Concert

May 12

venice theatre

941.488.1115/ venicetheatre.org

Graceland + Asleep on the Wind

Through May 7

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare

May 5-21

Pinky’s Players Presents: Keep a Song in Your Heart

May 19-21

westcoast black theatre

troupe

941.366.1505/

westcoastblacktheatre.org

Dreamgirls

Through Apr. 9

Big Sexy

Starting Apr. 19

VISIT SCENESARASOTA.COM

to submit your event for consideration, please send information to editor@scenesarasota.com

530 BURNS

941.951.0620 / 530burnsgallery.com

Glaze

May 5

art avenue

440.227.4592 / artavenueflorida.com

International Art:

Dali, Picasso, Turovsky

Current

Local Artists: Vicki Chelf, Richard Moravits, Elin Li

Current

artcenter manatee

941.746.2862 / artcentermanatee.org

Animals and More!

Through May 19

Women Contemporary Artists

Through May 19

art center sarasota

941.365.2032 / artsarasota.org

North Sarasota County Schools

Spring Art Exhibition

May 9-20

art uptown

941.306.3278 / artuptown.com

New Members Show Through May 26

chasen galleries

941.206.5787 / chasengalleries.com

New Works

Starting May 1

clyde butcher venice gallery and studio

941.486.0811 / clydebutcher.com

Meet Clyde Butcher

May 13

creative liberties

941.799.6634 / creativeliberties.net

Featured Artist Exhibitions

May 1-27

Onaelan

May 8 - Nov 13

creaturo gallery

941.953.6163/ creaturogallery.com

New/Featured

Current

harmony gallery @ sarasota orchestra

941.487.2746 / sarasotaorchestra.org

Tropical Birds in Paradise

Starting May 12

marie selby botanical gardens

941.366.5731 / selby.org

Tiffany: The Pursuit of Beauty in Nature

Through Jun. 25

State of the Arts

Dabbert Gallery—Kasia Bruniany

Frank Creaturo

Art Uptown—Tammy Keller

north port art center

941.423.6460 / northportartcenter.org

North Port High School Students

Through Apr. 14

Still Life for Plein Air

Apr. 16

ringling museum

941.359.5700 / ringling.org

Reclaiming Home:

Contemporary Seminole Art

Through Sep. 4

Gods & Lovers:

Paintings & Sculptures from India

Through May 28

sarasota art museum

sarasotaartmuseum.org

Richard Benson:

The World is Smarter Than You Are

Through May 7

Sara Berman’s Closet

Through May 7

Inside Out Through Jun. 25

A Beautiful Mess: Weavers + Knotters of the Vaguard

Through Jun. 25

The New Black Vanguard Photography between Art + Fashion

Through Sep. 17

studio on 5th 941.330.8091 / susancronkart.com

Susan Cronk Original Art: Pure, Figurative & Still Life

Current

the southern atelier

941.753.7755 / southernatelier.org

See Website for Classes & Studios

stakenborg/greenberg

fine art

941.487.8001 / stakenborgfineart. com

“Go Figure” Figurative Art

Current

Newly Acquired Monotypes by Mid-Twentieth Century German Expressionist, Otto Neumann

Current

state of the arts gallery

941.955.2787 / sarasotafineart.com

U R B A N A Q U A R I U M

Current

WASBI SABI

Current

AU NATURREL

Current

TO SUBMIT YOUR EVENT/EXHIBITION FOR CONSIDERATION , please send information to editor@scenesarasota.com

Artist Studios, Galleries & Creative Academy

Pink Harmony , Jie Li

Meg Krakowiak

The Ringling

Art Uptown—Ian Bigg

SPAACES

meet the artist s tephanie J. WOO ds

Stephanie J. Woods is a multimedia artist from Charlotte, North Carolina, currently based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. An Assistant Professor of Interdisciplinary Art at the University of New Mexico and 2021 winner of the 1858 Prize of Contemporary Southern Art, Woods’ artistic practice fuses a relationship between photography, textiles, video, and sculpture.

In her first solo museum exhibition Stephanie J. Woods: my papa used to play checkers at Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College of Art and Design, Woods presents new multidisciplinary works with themes focusing on transatlantic cultural continuity and memories. Titled after her eponymous photograph (2022), Woods presents a body of her recent work created after her life-changing artist residency at Black Rock Senegal in Dakar, Senegal in 2021.

During her sojourn, Woods witnessed firsthand how much of African culture and tradition has survived, continuing to thrive in Black American communities. The same game of draughts (known as checkers in American English) Senegalese play was for her a familiar childhood pastime; the colorful, patterned textiles sold by street vendors were also mesmerizing and relatable.

Inspired by such indelible traces of transatlantic cultural continuity and memories of play and creativity, Woods has created several multimedia works reflecting those themes. Woods’ visual creations are accompanied by poems written by frequent collaborator and poet, Laura Neal, in response to her work. Original scores composed by Johannes Barfield, another regular collaborator, further enrich this exhibition, in which all of the elements are conceived as part of a single, immersive installation.

Woods’ works are brooding and meditative yet simultaneously joyful reflections on the complicated history and ongoing lived experiences of Black Americans, highlighting resiliency and ingenuity.

“Stephanie J. Woods: my papa used to play checkers” is on view at Sarasota Art Museum May 28 - September 17, 2023.

ven OU s d I sease

By Federico Richter, MD, RPhS, DABVLM Board Certified

Venous reflux is the main cause of chronic venous insufficiency. When the venous network is functioning correctly, every movement of the leg causes blood to be pumped inward and upward passing a series of valves. Normally the valves in the veins make sure blood flows toward the heart, but when these valves don’t work well, blood flows backward and starts to collect (pool) in the legs.

Patients usually think that only varicose veins or bulgy veins are a sign of a problem. However, in most of the cases patients with no visible bulgy veins have life limiting symptoms such as night cramping on feet and legs, dull aching, swelling, heavy feeling in the legs, charley horse cramps, skin discoloration, neuropathy (tingling and numbness), etc. All those could be red flags associated with venous insufficiency.

There are a variety of non-invasive treatments that will improve a person’s quality of life by treating the symptoms and preventing these symptoms from becoming a major health condition. At my practice, we assess our new patients by performing a venous duplex ultrasound to determine the blood flow of the veins and a full medical evaluation to diagnose the problem. We then design the plan of care that will better suit each patient’s needs and make recommendations based on individual diagnosis and health.

Part of the process would consist of procedures of the truncal veins (Thermal with Laser and Radio Frequency, Chemical with Varithena or Ultrasound Guided Foam Sclerotherapy), or injections (Visual Sclerotherapy) for the incompetent veins. After any of these procedures, the wearing of compression stockings is recommended. There is no downtime for the patient.

It is very important to educate the health industry and the public about this common condition that sometimes is

mistakenly diagnosed as a neuropathy or a cosmetic problem. Venous insufficiency is a chronic condition that needs to be diagnosed by a vein specialist who has the knowledge to address the problems. In most of the cases, treatment is considered medically necessary and health insurance will cover it.

Chronic venous insufficiency will not disappear on its own, and the treatment can become more challenging as the disease progresses. Left untreated, the condition can lead to disabling pain and open sores called skin venous ulcers. Some people may develop blood clots in the legs, a serious condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). It is very important to choose an experienced vein specialist with the knowledge, skills, and technology to diagnose and treat the venous disease successfully.

Florida Vein Center

6050-A 53rd Ave E Bradenton, FL 34203 941.907.3400

4051 Upper Creek Dr #108 Sun City Center, FL 33573 813.634.9260

www.floridaveincenter.com

Venous insufficiency is a chronic condition that needs to be diagnosed by a vein specialist who has the knowledge to address the problems.

l I terary s cene

By Ryan G. Van Cleave • THREE STORIES WITH SECRETS

W hat happened tO rU thy ram I re Z

by Claire Jiménez

(Grand

Central

Publishing, March 2023)

Claire Jiménez’s debut novel is all about a secret—13year-old Ruthy vanished one day after track practice. For the next twelve years, the Ramirez family suffered in the way that people suffer when a loved one is taken from them.

Set in a deeply religious community in Staten Island, the story unfolds in the alternative perspectives of older sister Jessica, younger sister Nina, mom Dolores, and Ruthy herself. While this isn’t an effective technique for some novels, here it allows each woman to tell her own important truth.

The story gets underway when Jessica becomes convinced that she’s seen the long-lost Ruthy on a reality TV series called “Catfight,” which is like a female-only “Big Brother” meets “Survivor,” where contestants get to stay if they literally win a fight with fellow townhouse members. Jessica and Nina scrutinize the show, trying to determine if the show’s cast member “Ruby” might actually be Ruthy. Do their old memories match the reality before them? Is that the same beauty mark beneath her eye?

The entire family—along with Dolores’ explosive friend, Irene—decides to road trip to where the show is filmed to uncover the truth.

The story is rich with humor, sadness, and intergenerational trauma. Dolores struggles with the loss of her third daughter. Jessica struggles with her hospital job and a newborn baby. Nina struggles at a low-paying lingerie shop despite having a college degree. Yes, this is a family with heartbreak, but Jiménez brings a lot of humor, too, such as how Dolores’ prayers are full of expletives.

This world in general and this family in specific is well described and rich with detail. It’s a very strong debut novel.

RYAN’S RATING:

www.ClaireJimenez.com

a LIK e Ly stO ry • by Leigh McMullan Abramson (Atria, March 2023)

Imagine turning thirty-five and discovering that everything you thought about your family was an elaborate lie? That’s the story at the heart of Leigh McMullan Abramson’s debut, a book-within-a-book about a young writer (Isabella Manning) on the verge of a breakdown as her society hostess mother (Claire) dies and Isabella learns that she sacrificed far too much for family.

Some readers might balk at how authentically (read that as “deeply flawed”) both Isabella and her father (and iconic American novelist) are. It’s always a challenge when characters are potentially unlikeable. As a writer, how do you keep readers reading? It’s difficult, to be sure, and perhaps Abramson

Creating FUTURES

without a shadow of doubt.

overcomes that by a vivid rendering of 90s New York and other worldbuilding moments that ring quite true.

I’m a fan of books that deal intelligently with anxiety and mental health, and I can certainly get behind a story where a woman wants to steal back the spotlight from someone who cheated his way to “success.” Plus, some readers will be charmed by the multiple points of view as well as the bookwithin-a-book structure.

Claire is the unsung hero here. And I imagine stay-at-home moms in particular will resonate with this book.

RYAN’S RATING:

www.LeighMcMullanAbramson.com

the m O st Ly trU e stO ry O f tanner & LOUI se

by Colleen Oakley (Berkley, March 2023)

USA Today bestselling author Collen Oakley’s new novel, The Mostly True Story of Tanner & Louise, has an Odd Couple setup that I find charming. On one hand, there’s eighty-year-old Louise who broke her hip and needs a live-in caregiver. Not her own daughter, of course, because she’s just too busy. On the other hand, there’s twentyone-year-old Tanner, who had an accident that caused her to lose her college soccer scholarship and has now been kicked out of her mom’s basement and simply wants an easy job so she can loaf around and play video games in her sweatpants.

The two pretty much ignore each other, which suits them both fine. But then they’re forced into a road trip together (I won’t spoil why, save to save it’s a middle of the night decision involving police sirens), which is the ideal setting to prove how much they need each other. California, here they come!

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To learn more, contact our Executive Director, Cassandra Holmes, at 941.752.5390 or HolmesC@SCF.edu

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The plot echoes with all manner of 90s movies—Thelma & Louise, Midnight Run, etc. But this is more than a Xerox of those stories. There’s more than enough fun and freshness here to please most readers. And maybe Tanner will learn something important too from a woman old enough to be her great-grandmother.

RYAN’S RATING:

www.ColleenOakley.com