November2015

USF Sarasota-Manatee

Celebrates 40 Years

Holly Jolly Drinks For the Season Gift Ideas Big & Small

Lights, Music, Dance & Santa Holiday Events For Everyone

NOVEMBER 2015 $3.95 U.S.

How To Help Others During the Holidays

Hair ReTURNS

Ben Vereen At Venice Theatre

It’s time to create some of your own Home-sites Starting at $299k Packages Starting at $1m No CDD Fees Models Open Daily The Concession Real Estate Co., Inc. 8305 Lindrick Lane, Bradenton, FL 34202 941.388.0501

theconcessionrealestate.com

FINAL PHASE...

49 46 HOME-SITES REMAIN

Art of Ireland

As Good As It Gets

Celtic Arts & Crafts Gallery artofireland@aol.com 941-366-1900

Purveyor of Extraordinary Delicacies asgoodasitgets49palm.com 941-373-1839

Art to Walk On

Dabbert Gallery

Fine Oriental Carpets arttowalkon.com 941-951-5454

Fine Painting and Sculpture dabbertgallery.com 941-955-1315

Stroll Historic Palm Avenue and shop with some of Sarasota’s finest collection of merchants. Discover exceptional fine jewelry, fine art galleries, rare oriental carpets, exquisite home accessories and much more. Palm Avenue’s First Friday Walks are from 6 till 9 pm. Enjoy shopping, dining and live performances. w w w . P a l m A v e n u e . o r g

DeMarcay at 33 South Palm

Palm Avenue Fine Art

Historic Moderne Residences demarcay33southpalm.com 877-774-3782

Representing International Living Masters palmavenuefineart.com 941-388-7526

Galleria Silecchia

Lubé of Sarasota Cabinetry

International Fine Art galleriasilecchia.com 941-365-7414

Fine Crafted Cabinetry lubeofsarasota.com 941-954-0200

Mélange Home Fine Linens, Tabletop, Home Decor melangehomedecor.com 941-444-7969

AN EXCEPTIONAL, LUXURIOUS NOT-FOR-PROFIT CARE FACILITY

NOW ACCEPTING MEDICARE, INSURANCE AND PRIVATE PAY PATIENTS

MEDICAL CARE & SUPERVISION

SPECIALIZED REHABILITIATION SERVICES

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

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

• Personal Physicians

• Interdisciplinary Team of Experienced Professionals

• 24/7 RN, LPN and CMA Staffing

• State-of-the-Art Therapy Equipment

• Licensed Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapists

• Evidence-based care & Individualized Treatment

• Registered Dietician and Nutritional Management

• Physical, Occupational & Speech Rehabilitative Therapies

• Social Services

• Case Management to Maximize Benefits

• Full-Time Activities Director

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

License # SNF130471051

EOE

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

WALKER GUEST HOUSE REPLICA OPENS NOV 6 This replica by the Sarasota Architectural Foundation of the 1952 Walker Guest House, designed by Paul Rudolph, presents one of the hallmarks of the Sarasota School of modernism. The structure is a landmark on Sanibel Island.

WHAT’S ON

DISCOVER

Above: Walker Guest House, architect Paul Rudolph (1952), photograph courtesy ©Ezra Stoller/Esto

COLLECTING RECOLLECTIONS: I RAN AWAY WITH THE CIRCUS! NOV 3, MARGIE GEIGER, AERIALIST A classically-trained ballet dancer, Margie found herself rehearsing at Winter Quarters in Sarasota and then enjoying a career as an aerialist with the Wallenda family.

NEW STAGES: DEEP SOUTH BY ALEX KETLEY, THE FOUNDRY, SAN FRANCISCO NOV 6 & 7, 7:30 PM, $30, $25 / $27, $22.50 for Members Through live dance and documentary video, the choreographer engages the people of America’s rural South in an exploration of their personal and cultural relationship to dance.

NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: HAMLET NOV 13, 1:00 PM & 6:30 PM, $20 / $18 for Members Benedict Cumberbatch (BBC’s Sherlock, The Imitation Game) takes on the title role in Shakespeare’s great tragedy.

As a country arms itself for war, a family tears itself apart.

DISCOVER MORE

ringling.org

941.358.3180 OPEN DAILY at 10 AM

362 DAYS A YEAR!

S TAT E A R T M U S E U M O F F L O R I D A

| F L O R I D A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y

© 2015 Pandora Jewelry, LLC • All rights reserved • PANDORA.NET

A NECKLACE ISN’T JUST A NECKLACE IN YOUR HANDS, IT CAN TELL A WHOLE NEW STORY. IT’S THE GIFT THAT EVOLVES EVERY TIME YOU WEAR IT. WHAT WILL YOU ASK FOR? SHARE THE #ARTOFYOU SHOWN: NEW BEZEL-SET BLUE AND ICE CRYSTALS ON SILVER NECKLACE

MALL AT UNIVERSITY TOWN CENTER CENTER COURT • 941.893.3948

Ask About our Move-in Ready Homes!

Love Where You Live Experience Esplanade, a new level of inspired living, and enjoy EVERYTHING you’ve been looking for. Begin each day with endless possibilities by simply stepping outside into an exciting array of resort-style amenities, each focused on active-lifestyle. These gated communities are surrounded by lush landscaping and offer a range of single-family, detached villa and coach homes with today’s most sought-after features, each thoughtfully designed for elegant, easy living. Enjoy the opportunity to live in luxurious style and with all the amenities you deserve.

Everything is here.

COBBLESTONE ON PALMER RANCH

BY SIESTA KEY

GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB AT LAKEWOOD RANCH

EsplanadebySiestaKey.com

EsplanadeatLakewoodRanch.com

EsplanadeCobblestone.com

For more information, please visit TaylorMorrison.com or call us at 866.495.6006 Offer void where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. Prices may not include lot premiums, upgrades and options. Community Association and other fees may be required. Prices, promotions, incentives, features, options, amenities, floor plans, elevations, designs, materials and dimensions are subject to change without notice. Square footage and dimensions are estimated and may vary in actual construction. Community improvements and recreational features and amenities described are based upon current development plans which are subject to change and which are under no obligation to be completed. Floor plans and elevations are artist’s conception and are not intended to show specific detailing. Floor plans are the property of Taylor Morrison, Inc. and its affiliates and are protected by U.S. copyright laws. For further information, please see a Taylor Morrison Sales Associate and review our Terms of Use. This is not an offering in any state where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law. © 2015 Taylor Morrison of Florida, Inc., All rights reserved. FL GC#CBC1257822

AN INSPIRED LIVING EXPERIENCE FROM

HOLIDAY November 2015

Volume 58 No. 11

43

60

43 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Gift Ideas to Take the Stress Out of Holiday Shopping

79

60 USF SARASOTA-MANATEE CELEBRATES 40 YEARS

By Sue Cullen

68 HEART TUGS Helping Others This Holiday Season

79 HOLIDAY CHEER Season Cocktails

By Elizabeth Brissette, Colleen Fortier, Chloe Jing and Sogn Zamrzla

87 LIGHTS, MUSIC, DANCE & SANTA Holiday Events and Performances

cover

Students in the USF Sarasota-Manatee courtyard. Photography: John Revisky | Assistant: Dylan Jon Wade Cox

12

SCENE

|

November 2015

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

R

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

Schedule A Bay Club Tour Today!

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

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

1301 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34236

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

www.SarasotaBayClub.com A Freedom Senior Management Community

DEPARTMENTS

94

102

20 EVENTS CALENDAR 32 PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR 38 GET INSPIRED Cultural Events from the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

SOCIALS 41 Key to the Cure 67 Make-A-Wish All White Party

52 DESIGN Steamin’ Versatility

By Jacqueline Miller

GIVING 54 A Doggone Heroine Julie Altman

94 SCENES FROM AN INTERVIEW Actor, Singer and Dancer Ben Vereen

By Gus Mollasis

102 EDUCATION Sarasota Orchestra

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

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

By Debbi Benedict

114 LITERARY SCENE

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

By Steven J. Smith

116 HEALTH

56 Creating the Audiences of Tomorrow Ali Bahaj

Women & Heart Disease

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

Gallbladder Disease: The Signs & Symptoms

58 A Caring Heart Joan Armour Mendell

By Robert Browning, IV, MD

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

By Heidi Anderson, MD

By Enrique Rivera, MD

Solutions for Rosacea

120 SCENE LOCALLY News Shaping Our Community

122 REWIND Memories from Our Archives 14

SCENE

|

November 2015

FROM THE EXECUTIVE EDITOR

W

here has 2015 gone? Seriously, this year flew by for me. Here we are in November and once we

celebrate Thanksgiving, we are in holiday mode through the New Year. Didn’t we just do that?

Our lead story honors the 40th anniversary celebration of USF Sarasota-Manatee.

The

university has proudly served this community growing

into

a

comprehensive

four-year

institution offering over 40 different degrees and certificate programs in four colleges on campus.

Thousands of graduates live and work in our community and with its strategic growth plans, there is little doubt that USFSM has a significant impact in our region. There are many events planned this season so I hope you’ll get involved and show your support.

With the giving spirit of the holidays in mind, I encourage you to select one or more of the nonprofits featured in our Heart Tugs article and contribute to the needs of the organization in any way you can – cash donations, volunteer time, or donations of items needed to help those they serve. We’ve gathered the info to make it easy for you to know what the organizations’ needs are. If you have a favorite charity not featured here, hopefully this article will remind you to get involved and help out, especially during the holidays.

Need help with some gift ideas? SCENE’s gift guide featuring products from many Accredited by the The Joint Commission # 519604 AHCA License # 299993941

Private Duty Home Healthcare • Courtesy In-Home Assessment • Custom Care Plan • Alzheimer’s Care • Skilled Nursing Care • Personal Care Services • Long-Term Care Insurance Coordination Services

local merchants will hopefully help. Want to get in the spirit? Take a look at the holiday events and performances, get your tickets, mark your calendars and bring family and friends to share these special moments and create lasting memories.

SCENE has been giving back to the community we so dearly love since the magazine was first published in 1957. We support many nonprofit causes and many of our pages highlight those who give so much to the causes they so passionately support. In that giving spirit, SCENE is delighted to participate in Ringling College of Art and Design’s Collaboratory program, which gives students the opportunity for professional work experience.

Given that one of our contributing writers, Ryan Van Cleave, is a Ringling College professor, he spearheaded the collaboration for one of his classes to gain real life work experience by working with SCENE. With photography students and business of art students in his class, they pitched projects to my team and me. We collaborated via Skype, and SCENE’s art director visited the class on several occasions, teaching the students the art of producing interesting editorial for magazines. The students worked with local businesses to promote products, services and awareness. The first of the students’ submissions is featured in this issue, Holiday Cheer, with a few more to follow in the next couple of months. The experience has been a delightful one for SCENE and the students are thrilled with the experience.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving holiday and please remember it’s not just about the delicious turkey you will share with your family and friends. Please think about those who need people like you and me to make their Thanksgiving special.

941.955.8900 BrightDayHomeHealth.com 2620 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 301 Sarasota | 34239 16

SCENE

|

November 2015

julie@scenesarasota.com

Locally Owned, Operated & Printed Since 1957

See the forest. Not just the trees.

CEO/President

Ronald Milton

Publisher & Executive Editor

Julie A. Milton

In today’s fragmented world of a million different marketing mediums, it’s easy to feel a little lost when it comes to developing an effective branding strategy for your business. There are so many options – so many trees – it’s tough to get the “big picture” perspective that lets you see the whole forest.

Vice President Sales Art Director Special Issue Coordinator

That’s where Advice Solutions can help.

Yes, we are an advertising agency but we are also much more. We prefer our clients consider us their partner – a trusted friend who protects their interests and goes the extra mile to ensure they are taken care of.

Distribution Contributing Writers

Steve Slocum Michelle Cross Debbi Benedict Dick Jackson Debbi Benedict Sue Cullen Gus Mollasis

Granted, Advice is not your typical advertising agency. It’s a woman’s world at Advice, powered by four capable ladies who aren’t afraid to

Steven J. Smith

take on “manly” accounts like fire truck electronics and urban infill

Ryan G. Van Cleave

developments. We bring our unique sense of creativity to every project.

We like to have fun at the office – to laugh and share strong coffee –

Photographers

Nancy Guth

but when it’s time to get serious, watch out! We mean business, and

Daniel Perales

the results can be pretty spectacular.

Enrique Pino John Revisky Jessica Tasetano

Advice is headed by Linda Gross, a veteran of national ad campaigns who fulfilled a dream by opening her own agency in 1998. Last year, her agency marked its “Sweet 16” anniversary, but she was too busy to

Address

5939 Approach Road, Sarasota, FL 34238

celebrate much. Too busy parlaying her strengths in media strategy and public relations into top-notch press coverage for her clients. Too busy directing a talented staff into creating innovative ads and web copy. Too

Phone

941-365-1119

busy building on the hard work that has made Advice one of the top Fax

agencies of its kind in the region.

Do you need a roadmap for the forest you’ve been lost in?

Come discover a new perspective at Advice.

Website

941-954-5067 scenesarasota.com

SCENE Magazine publishes 12 issues a year by RJM Ventures, LLC. Address editorial, advertising and circulation correspondence to the above address. Sufficient return

advice-inc.com 941-907-9507

postage and self-addressed, stamped envelope must accompany all manuscripts, art work and photographs submitted if they are to be returned or acknowledged.

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

Reproduction without permission is prohibited. ISSN 1535-8895.

18

SCENE

|

November 2015

Some day,

he’ll be confidence.

Some day, this cute, cuddly—and not just a little bit crazy—10-week-old will be the difference between a life half lived, and one fully engaged.

But it’s not easy. It takes two years, thousands of dollars, and hundreds of volunteer hours to turn raw potential into polished performance. And it’s all possible because of people just like you.

Some day, with your help, starts today.

Your Hometown Heroes

November Calendar

For a complete listing of community events please visit scenesarasota.com The Ringling Ca’ d’Zan

Children First’s Flip Flops & Fashion November 5 Sharkey’s on the Pier 11:00 am. Luncheon and fashion show benefitting Children First.

Tickets $80 | 941.953.5507 x152 | childrenfirst.net

Sarasota Orchestra’s Conductor Dinner Series: Dinner 1 November 5 Michael’s Wine Cellar 6:00 pm. Featuring music director, Anu Tali, and masterworks 1 soloist, Marc-André Hamelin. Tickets: $150 | 941.487.2737 | sarasotaorchestra.org

BuzzPrizeExpo 2015 November 6 Ed Smith Stadium. The expo is designed to promote the economic assets that attract investment, talent and revenue to the region. The Hall will host more than 150 exhibitors in 10 industry zones. Free to public | theeconomicbuzz.com

Women’s Resource Center New Leaf on Life Luncheon and Fall Gathering November 6 Plantation Golf & Country Club 10:30 am. Featuring a deluxe drawing with prizes, a wine wall, and accessories available for purchase. Tickets $50 | 941.485.9724 | thewomensresourcecenter.org

Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast Fall Family Festival November 7 Bay Preserve at Osprey 11:00 am. Benefits Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast.

Free family fun with hands-on activities including access to Historic Spanish Point. 941.918.2100 | conservationfoundation.com

2015 Snooty’s Gala Museum After Dark November 7 South Florida Museum 6:00 pm. Black tie gala named in honor of Florida’s most famous manatee. Tickets $200 | 941.746.4131 x17 | southfloridamuseum.org

20

SCENE

|

November 2015

sarasota opera presents

The Opera Gala

Saturday, January 23, 2016, 6:30

pm

The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota | Black Tie | $295 per person Gala Chairs: Edith Chaifetz and Sandra Lindqvist Join us for Sarasota’s most elegant evening!

Cocktail Hour Silent Auction Four Course Dinner Performance by Sarasota Opera Artists Live Music for Dancing For reservations, call the Box Office at (941) 328-1300 Online tickets available at SARASOTAOPERA.ORG Sponsored by:

Victor DeRenzi, Artistic Director Richard Russell, Executive Director

Big Brothers Big Sisters Masquerade Gala November 7 Venetian Golf and River Club 6:00 pm. Benefits Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast. Tickets $95 | 941.488.4009 | bbbssun.org

New College Foundation’s 36th Annual Clambake November 7 New College Bayfront 6:00 pm. Slip on a pair of top-

MORE THAN JUST RUGS!

siders or wedges and crack into a savory lobster at an old-fashioned New England Clambake. Tickets $150 | 941.487.4800 | ncf.edu

Children’s First Rockin’ Lobster November 7 Sharkey’s on the Pier 6:30 pm. Enjoy the sunset on the Gulf of Mexico, a delicious Maine lobster dinner, rockin’ music, and sand under your feet. Tickets $125 | 941.953.5507 x152 | childrenfirst.net

Callaghan Tire Charity ProAm Golf Tournament November 8 – 10 Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club and the Ritz-Carlton Members Club. All proceeds go to “Golfers Against Cancer”, which supports research centers requested by the Callaghan family.Tickets: $1900 | 941.650.1701 | callaghantirecharityproam.com

All Faiths Food Bank Bowls of Hope November 8 Philippi Estate Park 11:00 am. Select a handmade bowl and enjoy soup prepared and served by area restaurants.

Tickets: $25 | 941.379.6333 | allfaithsfoodbank.org

2015 Chalk Festival in Venice November 9 – 16 Venice Airport Fairgrounds & West Miami Ave. A community-based cultural event featuring hundreds of pavement artists, live music and food. chalkfestival.org

RCAD 15th Annual Golf Tournament November 9 Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club. Event includes 18 holes of golf, prize eligibility, golf shirt, luncheon, awards banquet, and more. Provides scholarship funds to Ringling students. Tickets: $400 players; $100 banquet only | 941.309.4728 | ringling.edu/golftournament

Suncoast Food & Wine Fest’s Tribute to Our Veterans Gala November 11 Michael’s on East 6:00 pm. Celebrating a tribute to

Rugs As Art ...And More!

6650 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34231 941.921.1900 rugsasart.com 22

SCENE

|

November 2015

2015

our veterans with a special wine and food pairing event followed by dessert. Tickets $250 | 941.870.0002 | lakewoodranch-rotary. com | suncoastfoodandwinefest.com

Forty Carrots’ Wine, Women and Shoes November 12 – 15 Various times and locations. A three-day event including a luncheon, wine tasting, shoe and fashion retailers and intimate wine dinners. 941.365.7716 | fortycarrots.com

Concierge Custom Building Remodeling Project Management

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE MAINSTAGE

CABARET

4 shows for as little as $59! 3 shows for as little as $39!

One Man, Two Guvnors

By Richard Bean

Inspired insanity, high-low antics, and nimble wordplay - all backed by live musicians paying homage to rockabilly and a certain Fab Four.

“Tongue twisting pleasures of alliteration” - The New York Times

Butler

By Richard Strand

With sharp wit and tongue-in-cheek humor, Butler takes us on a journey to nd the true meaning of freedom during the Civil War. “Uproarious” - The New York Times

Outside Mullingar

By John Patrick Shanley

This tender-hearted portrait reminds us that what we’re looking for is sometimes right in front of us.

“Poignant” - The Seattle Times

Alabama Story

By Kenneth Jones

Political foes, childhood friends, and one feisty author on the same page, but at opposite ends of clashing perceptions.

“Cleverly crafted” - Salt Lake Tribune

Soul Mates:

A Journey to Hitsville

By Bill Castellino with Human Nature and David Rudder

The greatest memories and music of Rhythm & Blues, that changed America forever. Featuring songs such as: “My Girl,” “ABC,” “I’ll Be There,” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.”

“We set out to make quality music, that everyone could enjoy” - Smokey Robinson

Yesterday

Developed by Richard Hopkins, Rebecca Hopkins, and Jim Prosser

Journey back to a time of peace, love, and everything in between with the best groups of the British Invasion.

Featuring songs such as: “Let It Be,” “Satisfaction,” and “I’m Into Something Good.”

“Britannia ruled the airwaves in 1964” - Rolling Stone Magazine

Laughing Matters (vol. 5) Lock the Gates

Developed by Rebecca Hopkins, Jim Prosser, and Adam Ratner

A musical Saturday Night Live for Sarasota returns! Whether you lean left, right, or are still stuck on a roundabout, there will be no clean getaways.

“A day without laughter is a day wasted” - Charlie Chaplin

Sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the State of Florida.

Richard Hopkins, Producing Artistic Director

Subscribe Online! !oridastudiotheatre.org

Siesta Key Crystal Classic

Sarasota Orchestra’s Season Opener Brunch

November 13 – 17 Siesta Key Beach 10:00 am. Master sand

November 15 Michael’s On East 10:30 am. Featuring the seven

sculpting competition. Tickets $6 | siestakeycrystalclassic.com

ensembles of the Sarasota Youth Orchestra with a special performance by John Miller, principal bass, and his jazz ensemble.

The Artful Lobster

Tickets $150 | 941.487.2737 | sarasotaorchestra.org

November 14 Hermitage Artist Retreat 11:00 am. Feast on a gourmet lobster buffet along with complimentary drinks, tours of the Her-

Palates and Palettes

mitage, music, and a spectacular live auction. Proceeds benefit The

November 15 Lawn of the Keith Farmhouse 4:30 pm. Gourmet

Hermitage. Tickets $175 | 941.475.2098 | hermitageartistretreat.org

dinner hosted by Chef Paul Mattison preceded by a “Fresh off the Easel” art sale. Guests will get a sneak peek inside the Keith

Symphony On The Sand

Farmhouse. Limited seating, reservations required. Tickets: $100 |

November 14 Coquina Beach Gulfside Park, Anna Maria Island 4:30

941.921.3400 | mattisons.com

pm. A musical and gourmet event featuring the award-winning Anna Maria Island Concert Chorus & Orchestra. Tickets: $35 - $100 and

JFCS 11th Annual Grace Rosen Magill Lecture

Free seating on beach | 941.795.2370 | SymphonyOnTheSand.com

November 16 The Francis 11:30 am. Featuring Jay Kopelman, Lt. Col, US Marine Corps (RET), author of From Baghdad with Love:

Glasser Schoenbaum Human Services Center’s “The Silver Soiree”

A Marine, the War, and a Dog Named Lava. Tickets $45 Patron: $136 | 941.366.2224 x142 | jfcs-cares.org

November 14 Michael’s On East 6:00 pm. Black Tie Gala Celebrating the 25th Anniversary of The Glasser Schoenbaum Human Ser-

Planned Parenthood’s High Tide at High Noon

vices Center. Tickets: $250 | 941.365.4545 | gs-humanservices.org

November 16 Sarasota Yacht Club 12:00 pm. Luncheon and fashion show. Tickets: $85 | 941.365.3913 x1045 | hightideathighnoon.org

Saint Stephen’s Grand Gala – Fire & Ice November 14 Signature fundraising event for the Saint Stephen’s

Kobernick-Anchin-Benderson’s Keeping the Dream Alive

Parents’ Association. Participate in chance drawings, live and si-

November 16 Michael’s on East 7:30 pm. Featuring a musical per-

lent auctions and dancing! 941.746.2121 | saintstephens.org

formance by father & son team, Rich and Brandon Ridenour, and

Theater Performances:

The Dawsons in Concert November 4, 2015

Decades Rewind November 9-10, 2015

Kim Betts and the Gamble Creek Band November 14, 2015 Coming Soon:

The Little Mermaid and The Miracle Worker December 3-20, 2015

Tickets on sale now! $26-$36

Box Office: 941-748-5875

|

ManateePerformingAr tsCenter.com November 2015

|

SCENE

25

RING IN THE HOLIDAYS AT THE VAN WEZEL! DAVE KOZ CHRISTMAS TOUR 2015 Nov 27

Jonathan Butler

Dave Koz

Candy Dulfer

Bill Medley

Family Series sponsored by Boar’s Head & Sponsored by Scene Magazine

Nov 14

Herman’s Hermits starring

Co-sponsored by Go Touchdown Travel and Tours

Peter Noone

Rocky & the Rollers Dec 13

Gary “U.S.” Bonds

Bowzer & The Stingrays

Peter Noone

Gary “U.S.” Bonds

Sponsored by Wilde Lexus of Sarasota & SNN Suncoast News Network

Dec 23 Dec 3 Sponsored by Comfort Suites - Sarasota Family Series sponsored by Boar’s Head & Sponsored by Bright House Networks

Dec 10

Dec 31

Co-sponsored by Go Touchdown Travel and Tours

Box Office: 941.953.3368 Online: vanwezel.org Box Office Hours: M-F 10a-6p, Sat 10a-4p, Open Later & Sun on Show Days.

Prices, dates & times subject to change without notice.

idays Home for the Hol Part of the Van Wezel Foundation Series

a delectable dessert buffet. 941.203.6237 | kobernickanchin.org

Pines Wit & Wisdom of Aging Luncheon November 17 Michael’s On East 11:30 am. Featuring conversations about the joys and challenges of aging. Panelists include Gerri Aaron, Flori Roberts and Dickie Smothers.

Benefits Pines of Sarasota. Tickets: $90 | 941.955.6293 | pinesfoundation.org

AJC 2015 Civic Achievement Award Dinner November 17 Michael’s On East 6:00 pm. American Jewish Committee will present its 2015 Civic Achievement Award to Veronica Brady, Senior VP of the Gulf Coast Community Foundation. Tickets $200 | 941.365.4955 | ajc.org

Broadway Under the Stars: WBTT’s Sweet 16 Gala November 19 Sarasota Municipal Auditorium 6:00 pm. Enjoy an evening with cocktails, dinner, dancing, and a show. Honoring Broadway star Melba Moore and Sarasota stars Gerri Aaron and Marvin Albert. Tickets: $200 | 941.366.1505 x106

Historic Spanish Point’s Party at the Point: Down the Rabbit Hole November 20 Historic Spanish Point 6:00 pm. Cocktails, dinner, music by Pocket Change and more on Little Sarasota Bay. Benefits Historic Spanish Point. Tickets $200 | 941.966.5214 x2500 | historicspanishpoint.org

Horsepower for Hope November 21 & 22 Auto show kicks off this event with some of the most powerful and highly tuned cars from around the world. Followed by a cocktail party and autocross event. Benefits Center for Building Hope. Tickets: $20 - $35 | 941.921.5539 | horsepowerforhope.org

Sarasota Mandolin Benefit Concert November 21 St. Andrew United Church of Christ 1:30 pm. Freewill offering appreciated for Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation. 941.923.2343

Boys & Girls Club Sarasota Champions for Children November 21 Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Club 6:00 pm. Honoring Alex (1915 – 1996) and Betty Schoenbaum. Benefits Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County. Caribbean theme with a cocktail reception and three-course dinner with entertainment. Tickets $250 | 941.366.3911 | bgcsarasota.com

24th Annual Ponies Under the Palms November 22 Lakewood Ranch Main St. 8:00 am. Mustang and Ford enthusiasts from throughout the region will be competing for awards. Proceeds support Take Stock in Children and Southeastern Guide Dogs. 920.944.8137 | mustangclubofwestcentralflorida.org

ALSO Youth’s 6th Annual Turkey Trot November 26 Hyatt Regency 8:00 am. This chip-timed 5K race attracts 1,500 runners of all ages and skill levels. Registration includes a breathable tech shirt, round-trip course over the beautiful John Ringling Causeway, and complimentary refreshments at the Hyatt Regency’s post-race party. Tickets: $30 | 941.953.1234 | asloyouth.org

November 2015

|

SCENE

27

PAID FOR IN PART BY SARASOTA COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT TAX REVENUES

ed by Direct ! ereen V n e B

Asolo Reperatory Theatre Director’s Take Luncheon November 30 Asolo Rep Theatre 10:30 am. A lunch and stimulating conversation with Asolo Rep’s directors, exploring the theme of the season: Times of Change.

Tickets: $75 | 941.351.9010 x4702 | asolorep.org/directorstakelunch Upcoming Events

Sarasota Orchestra’s Conductor Dinner Series: Dinner 2 December 3 University Park Country Club 6:00 pm. Featuring masterworks 2 conductor Perry So and soloist Leila Josefowicz. Tickets: $150 | 941.487.2737 | sarasotaorchestra.org

Jewish Federation’s Women’s Day December 7 Michael’s On East 11:30 am.

Featuring special guest, actress Marlee Matlin. Tickets $75 | 941.343.2115| jfedsrq.org

941.488.1115 ● VeniceStage.com ● 140 W. Tampa Ave.

La Musica Sonata a Due December 7 Michael’s On East Ballroom 6:00 pm. An elegant evening to open the season for La Musica with cocktails, recital, and dinner. Recital featuring Federico Agostini, violin, and Derek Han, piano. Tickets: $150 guests; $250 patrons | 941.371.6798 | lamusicafestival.org

JFCS Gala – Reflections of A Caring Community December 13 The Ritz-Carlton 5:00 pm.

Celebrating 30 years with a caring community, featuring the Sarasota Orchestra.

Tickets: $500 | 941.366.2224 x142 | jfcscares.org

Sarasota Ballet’s Holiday Showcase Luncheon December 14 Michael’s On East 11:30 am. Featuring a 25th anniversary presentation honoring past presidents of the friends of The Sarasota Ballet. Tickets: $45 | 941.923.0298 | sarasotaballet.org

28

SCENE

|

November 2015

Paul Tarantino, Vice President, Business Development Officer

Suzanne Ellin, Vice President, Trust Administration Officer

We may have opened our Sarasota doors in 2009— but we are anything but new to Trusts and Investments.

Our rich history began in upstate New York back in 1919, when our affiliate, Canandaigua National Bank & Trust, was granted trust powers. Over the years, we’ve learned that clients are looking for expertise, education and advice, and an exceptional customer experience— and that’s exactly what we provide.

We separate ourselves from our competitors by setting a minimum investment level at a fraction of what other firms require, which allows us to deliver customized financial planning to more investors with their specific needs and goals in mind.

Looking for comprehensive trust and investment solutions delivered with the personal attention you deserve? Discover the difference at Canandaigua National Trust Company.

Ask us about our Pledge of Accountability—our commitment to provide a higher level of service with a money-back guarantee.* Trusts | Estates | Investment Management Accounts | IRAs

1586 Main Street, Sarasota (941) 366-7222 CNTrustCompany.com *To see the full version of our Pledge of Accountability and Fee Refund Guarantee, visit CNTrustCompany.com/OurPledge or contact our office today.

Canandaigua National Trust Company of Florida is an affiliate of Canandaigua National Bank & Trust. Investments are not bank deposits, are not obligations of or guaranteed by Canandaigua National Trust Company of Florida, and are not FDIC insured. Investments are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of principal amount invested. Investments and services may be offered through affiliate companies.

annette görtz

Trunk Show: November 12-14 2015, 10am – 6pm Purist aesthetics and its very own original signature style are what define fashion by Annette Görtz Her work is never brash – clearcut, razor-sharp styles and unobtrusive non-colors are among the characteristic features of her designer styles. Thanks to ingenious, handcrafted details the styles are always adaptable and versatile. Her experimentation with materials is also imaginative and creative putting ever new and unconventional creations into the foreground. A particular premium is placed on very high-quality and natural materials. With her mix of casual style and sensual elegance plus self-evident comfort and ingenious fits, Annette Görtz designs are very popular.

364 St. Armands Circle, Sarasota | 941-388-1974 | dreamweavercollection.com

PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR

Photo of Summer Dawn Wallace in Freak by Brendan Ragan Jamie Carters A Deux Mains – Photo Frank Atura

Asolo Repertory Theatre 941.351.8000 / asolorep.org

West Side Story November 10 – December 27 While Manhattan’s west side rumbles with the clash of the Jets and Sharks, star-crossed lovers Maria and Tony seek a “somewhere” their romance can thrive.

Conservatory – The Actor’s Nightmare & The Real Inspector Hound November 3 – 22 Two of the greatest writers of absurdist comedy in one night!

Florida Studio Theatre 941.366.9000 / floridastudiotheatre.org

Main Stage – One Man, Two Guvnors November 18 – January 10 Welcome to swingin’ England. Francis Henshall, a disarming and doltish man, finds himself employed by a local gangster and a notorious criminal.

32

SCENE

|

November 2015

Cabaret — Soul Mates: A Journey To Hitsville

Manatee Performing Arts Center

Through February 7 Highlighting musicians and music from Motown.

941.748.5875 / manateeperformingarts -center.com

Lemon Bay Playhouse 941.475.6756 / lemonbayplayhouse.com

Murder at The Howard Johnson’s Through November 8 All is fair in love? Even murder? That is the question posed in this light and funny suspense/comedy about a love triangle in a Howard Johnson’s Motor Inn.

Greg Nielsen’s Jazz Band – “Jazz the way you like it” November 21 Greg Nielsen has pulled together musicians from the area and will include original reproductions of the great Duke Ellington Band in a 6-piece format.

Bark – The Musical Through November 8 From the little puppy who yearns to bark like a real dog, to the opera singing poodle and the street mutt who raps – this hilarious musical tells the story of life from the dog’s point of view through fetching tunes.

25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Through November 15 Laugh along with six quirky adolescents who compete in an annual spelling bee.

Along the way, hear the hilarious and wistful stories each tells while spelling their way to the top. Only one speller will win; find out who it will be.

You Are Cordially Invited To Attend Our

Thursday, November 19 | 4pm–7pm Passport Around the World Travel the world as you explore the new HarborChase Assisted Living and Memory Care Community.

You’ll receive a passport so you can collect stamps and enter to win great prizes.

One lucky person will win a cruise!

Vous voir à la partie!

To RSVP for this event, call today!

(941) 387-9070

5311 Proctor Road | Sarasota, FL 34233 www.HarborChase.com Assisted Living Facility #Pending

perfect a

Partnership



When two come together to create something great.

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and the Van Wezel Foundation, continuing to work together to deliver first class children’s educational programming for our community. With the Foundation’s support, more than 25,000 students from four counties are provided with programs and access to the theatre each season to experience the arts through the Schooltime Program.

Won’t you show your support and help us continue to keep the children coming?

To learn more, please contact us at (941) 366-5578 or visit us at vwfoundation.org.

Peter Dugan & Sean Lee

Urbanite Theatre 941.321.1397 / urbanitetheatre.com

Freak Through November 15 From the playwright of Urbanite’s smash hit Chicken Shop comes another thrilling examination of humanity and sexuality. What does it cost to pay for power with sex?

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall 941.955.7676 | vanwezel.org

All Hands On Deck

The Players Theatre 941.365.2494 / theplayers.org

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Through November 15 Everyone’s favorite flying car comes to life in the musical adaptation of the beloved family film. Take a fantastic musical adventure as this out-of-thisworld car flies through the air and sails the seas.

The Ringling 941.359.5700 / theringling.org

Carole J. Bufford, cabaret artist

Decades Rewind November 9 – 10 Experience the greatest music of the 60s, 70s, and 80s with DECADES – a multimedia musical extravaganza featuring a LIVE 13-piece band performing medleys of your favorite hits, spanning 30 years.

Kim Betts & Gamble Creek Band November 14 Daughter of Dickey Betts (Allman’s Brother’s Band & Rock and Roll Hall of Famer), Kim Betts leads this country band with her strong and versatile performing skills.

November 14 – 15 Classic popular music standards including Cry Me A River, Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man of Mine, Goody Goody, I Wanna Be Around, Body & Soul, and much more.

Sarasota Ballet 941.359.0099 / sarasotaballet.org

MacMillan, Wright & Ashton November 20 - 21 Three Company premieres by Sir Kenneth MacMillan, Sir Peter Wright and Sir Frederick Ashton pay tribute to three Knights of the British Ballet.

November 4

America’s Got Talent Live: The AllStars Tour!

November 5

Yes November 11

Lewis Black: The Rant Is Due: Part Deux November 13

Cirque Dreams - Holidaze November 14

Straight No Chaser November 19

Creedence Clearwater Revisited November 21

Dave Koz Christmas Tour 2015 November 27

Key Chorale, Sarasota’s Symphonic Chorus presents: Holiday Concert: With Clarion Voice November 29

Craig Ferguson: The New Deal Tour December 1

Daryl Hall & John Oates December 2

Venice Theatre

Sarasota Orchestra

941.488.1115 / venicestage.com

The Perlman Music Program/Suncoast

941.953.3434 / sarasotaorchestra.org

The Beauty Queen of Leenane

Masterworks 1 – The Emperor

941.955.4942 / pmpsuncoast.org

November 6 – 8 Featuring two works by Shostakovich (Festive Overture and Symphony No. 5) and Beethoven’s majestic Piano Concerto No. 5 (Emperor) with pianist Marc-André Hamelin.

November 5 – 22 In this black comedy a lonely Irish woman yearns for romance but must cope with the manipulative mother who lives with her.

Alumni Concert November 22 Sean Lee, violin and Peter Dugan, piano, will be performing selections from their recently recorded “Songbook.”

Hair November 9 – December 13 A product of the 1960s peace movement, November 2015

|

SCENE

35

hippie counterculture and sexual revolution, Hair won the 1968 Tony Award and broke new ground in theatre by defining “rock musicals.” One of the original Broadway cast members, Tony Award winner Ben Vereen, will be directing this production.

The Alter Eagles November 15 – 16 This tribute to The Eagles includes all their greatest songs, from their earliest classics like “Take It Easy,” “Desperado,” and “One of These Nights,” to huge hits like “Heartache Tonight” and “Hotel California.”

Venice Performing Arts Center 941.480.3191 / veniceperformingartscenter.com

Venice Concert Band “Salute to Veterans” November 9

John Lennon & Me: a play

The Bullet Hole “Florida’s Oldest Gun Store”

Located in the heart of Downtown Sarasota since 1947.

Specializes in Firearms, Liberty Safes & Accessories.

“Our Family welcomes you!”

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

November 13 – 14 Meet Hollywood-wannabe Star, the ultimate Beatles fan who spends most of her time in the hospital, and her new roommate, Courtney, a pretty cheerleader and apparently not very sick. Eventually they come to understand each other, and ultimately, themselves in this powerful play about living life to the fullest.

Germanic Gems – Tai Murray, Soloist November 20 – 21 Violin performance by Tai Murray. Violin Concerto No. 1 by Max Bruch, Mendelssohn’s orchestral masterpiece, Symphony No. 3 (The Scotch) and the ever popular and rollicking Poet and Peasant Overture.

Venice Concert Band “Christmas Concert” November 30

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe 941.366.1505 / westcoastblacktheatre.org

The Color Purple

941-957-1996 | 330 South Orange Avenue Don’t worry, we have plenty of parking!

36

SCENE

|

November 2015

Through November 21 This inspiring musical tells the story of an unforgettable woman who triumphs over adversity and discovers her unique voice in the world.

FOR YOU

3.02 Carats Radiant Cut Diamond Ring D VS2 GIA $67,500

PHOTO: JENNIFER WRIGHT

www.CaratsFineJewelryAndWatches.com

1922 Bay Road, Sarasota FL 34239 (941) 926-3335 gregt@caratsfjw.com Fine Jewelry - Full Watch & Jewelry Service - Private Estate Buying - Collateral Loans - Custom Design

GET INSPIRED Cultural Happenings brought to you by the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

“We are so lucky to live in a thriving cultural community that inspires young artists to create. As an actor myself, I love being a part of the growing local film scene and working with Ringling College's filmmaking students. The talent coming out of that school and the quality of work is astounding.”

– Danae DeShazer, Actor

Hair Venice Theatre November 9 – Dec. 13, 2015 A product of the 1960s peace movement, hippie counterculture and sexual revolution, Hair won the 1968 Tony Award and broke new ground in theater by defining “rock musicals.” Venice Theatre is thrilled to announce that one of the original Broadway cast members, Tony Award winner Ben Vereen, will be directing this production.

The performance on November 9 is part of Venice Theatre’s 65th Anniversary Gala. Let the Sunshine In! – A Black Tie Affair features an exclusive performance of Hair and much more. Learn more at venicestage.com

Ambassador James A. Joseph Bookstore1Sarasota November 22, 2015 at 2 p.m.

Joseph will discuss his new book, Saved for a Purpose: A Journey from Private Virtues to Public Values. Joseph grew up in Louisiana’s Cajun country, where his parents taught him the value of education and the importance of serving others. These lessons inspired him to follow a career path that came to include working in senior executive or advisory positions for four United States presidents and with the legendary Nelson Mandela to build a new democracy in Southern Africa. Saved for a Purpose is Joseph’s ethical autobiography, in which he shares his moral philosophy and his insights on leadership. Learn more at sarasotabooks.com or 941-365-7900.

Masterworks Series: The Emperor Sarasota Orchestra November 6 – 8, 2015 Music Director Anu Tali opens the Sarasota Orchestra’s Masterworks Series conducting Beethoven’s ‘Emperor.’ The concert titled ‘The Emperor’ features guest pianist Marc-André Hamelin’s performance of Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5, the ‘Emperor.’

The program also includes two works by Shostakovich. Tali opens the concert with Shostakovich’s Festive Overture. The second half of the concert includes Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5. Learn more at sarasotaorchestra.org

38

SCENE

|

November 2015

Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival Mattison’s Forty-One and Siesta Key Beach November 12, 2015 Kick-off the return of the 6th Annual Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival with a party at Mattison's Forty-One. What better place to meet all master sculptors and artist team sponsors then at Mattison's? Dinner, entertainment, libations and a Quick Sand show will get you ready for this year's fabulous event.

Artists hailing from as far away as Russia will compete in this year’s Crystal Classic. Twelve teams of two will sculpt for four days, creating elaborate sculptures 8-10’ in height, vying for $15,000 in prize money.

The competition is modeled after other master competitions that are held yearly in Texas, Virginia, Washington and Ft. Myers, Florida. Master sculptors earn their title by competing and winning first in amateur competitions, such as the one held in Siesta Key in May, and then moving on to the Master Competitions. Learn more at siestakeycrystalclassic.com

The Actor’s Nightmare and The Real Inspector Hound FSU/ Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training November 3 - 22, 2015 The FSU/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training kicks off its 2015-16 season with a double bill of Tony and Obie Award-winning playwright Christopher Durang's The Actor's Nightmare and multi-Tony Award winner Tom Stoppard's The Real Inspector Hound. Presenting a full night of entertainment from two masters of absurdist comedy, the evening will start with 30-minute one-act THE ACTOR'S NIGHTMARE, include a brief intermission and close with The Real Inspector Hound. Directed

by Greg Leaming, the director of the Conservatory, both shows preview in the Cook Theatre at the FSU Center for Performing Arts on Tuesday, November 3 at 7:30pm with a special "Pay What You Can Performance," and officially open on Wednesday, November 4 at 7:30pm and run through Sunday, November 22.

In The Actor's Nightmare, confused accountant George Spelvin wanders into a theater and finds himself thrown into the leading role in the performance of an ever-changing play. At a loss for lines, stage blocking, and any idea of how the disordered plot is supposed to end, George ad libs his way through a chaotic list of plays, from William Shakespeare to Samuel Beckett.

In The Real Inspector Hound, theatre critics Moon and Birdboot attend a British murder mystery. As the playfully melodramatic plot approaches its finale and the two whisper their theories back and forth, they are suddenly pulled into the action of the play. Now they must find the culprit — before they become victims themselves! Learn more at asolorep.org

Give My Regards to Broadway The Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota November 8 at 3 p.m.

Vocalist Amy Jo Connours, baritone Jason Stearns and pianist Lee DoughertyRoss, part of the Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota's performing outreach series, perform songs by Broadway favorites in Give My Regards to Broadway.

"Since the 1920s, Broadway has been a showcase for innovative musicmaking; some of America's most significant composers got their start there," says Don DeMaio, the coordinator of the concert program at Unitarian Universalist Church. "Indeed, along with jazz, the Broadway musical is one of the few uniquely American art forms." DeMaio adds that this concert will showcase songs from some of the more celebrated musicals. Learn more at uucsarasota.com

SarasotaMOD Weekend Sarasota Architectural Foundation November 6 – 8, 2015 Join midcentury fans of legendary architect Paul Rudolph and explore his unparalleled works in Sarasota and around the world.

It’s all happening at SarasotaMOD, the midcentury architecture festival celebrating Paul Rudolph.

• Tour Rudolph’s architectural gems — from the Umbrella House to the newly restored Sarasota High School • Party at the inspiring replica of Rudolph’s Walker Guest House at The Ringling • Wine and dine in mod private homes • Be enlightened by speakers and panelists who knew Rudolph “[Rudolph] was one of the most imaginative architects that has ever lived.

He had three areas of expertise. No. 1, he was an amazing architect, always exploring.

No. 2, he was a great teacher. Some of the most foremost architects in the world today were students of Rudolph. It is amazing the influence he has had around the world as a teacher.” – Carl Abbott, FAIA, from HeraldTribune article by Harold Bubil Learn more at sarasotamod.com

November 2015

|

SCENE

39

“Our Name Says It All” With a combined 60 plus years of automotive sales, we know what it takes to earn your business and keep you coming back.

We purchase all makes and models and specialize in high demand, gently used, low mileage vehicles that are in the best possible condition, and quality tested by certified, licensed technicians. Why spend top dollar on a new vehicle that depreciates greatly the minute you drive it off the lot?

Plus we’ll get you the best deal and trade-in value on your car.

Our job doesn’t stop when you take delivery of your auto. It is also about what we do after, making sure your positive experience continues, so you’ll come back with your family and friends.

We offer easy financing with great terms and rates with a quick turnaround to get you on the road as quickly as possible.

Need to ship your vehicle? We can ship anywhere in the world and will make sure it arrives in the condition you sent it.

We promise not to disappoint you and will always listen and respect your concerns.

WE DON’T SAY IT — WE DO IT! 2820 Bee Ridge Road | Sarasota FL 34239 PreferredAutoSarasota.com

|

941-924-4227

Social Key to the Cure More than 1000 beautiful people, mostly dressed in pink, attended the 10th annual Saks Fifth Avenue’s Key to the Cure, the kick-off for its four-day shopping event benefiting Sarasota Memorial Health Care System’s Women’s Cancer Programs. Delicious food, a “Hello Gorgeous” photo area, a glitter tattoo artist, the songs of Christopher Eisenberg, and sounds spun by Impulse Entertainment were enjoyed by all. Adding to the excitement was an exclusive “key event”, which unlocked amazing prizes for the lucky winners who purchased keys. Major sponsors included Amicus Foundation, Dart Foundation, and Saks Fifth Avenue. Event chairs were Veronica Brady, Aimee Cogan, Susan Jones, Kyla Weiner, Alex Miller, Ariane Dart, and Allison Silver Schwartz.

Dr. Alissa Shulman

Photos by Nancy Guth

Ann Logan & Jennifer Rominiecki

Amanda Morris, Ashley Kozel, Jamie Becker, Ariane Dart, Aimee Cogan, Valerie Leatherwood & Jennie Famiglio

Alex Quarles & Judith Bell

UNIQUE JEWELRY FOR THE WOMAN WITH STYLE T h e G o l d e n I m a g e / 3 0 S . P a l m Av e . , S a r a s o ta , F L 3 4 2 3 6 mymkdesigns.com / (941) 364-8439

November 2015

|

SCENE

41

SARASOTA DESIGN CENTER

Local ownership, excellent and friendly customer service, and an extensive collection of top line, quality products

iMagine. explORe. inSpiRe.

It is an entirely new way to think of appliances: sleek, innovative designs that incorporate the most advanced precision cooking and food preservation features of any appliance brand on Earth. monarkhome.com S H O W R O O M : 5670 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota FL 34232 941 926 0700

monarkhome

monarkhome

monarkhome

©2015 Monark Premium Appliance Co. All rights reserved.

The Ultimate Kitchen & Bath Experience

Fully Licensed & Insured Florida Contractor. Featuring American and Canadian-Made Brands: Medallion, Design Craft, Plain & Fancy, Marsh and Elmwood Fine Custom Cabinetry

NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN: 5686 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34232 • 941.342.3443 • cabinetsextra.com

Befuddled? Have no clue what to get? Whether it’s for your significant other, a friend or relative, here are some gift ideas to help take the stress out of your holiday shopping.

We all know stress wreaks havoc on our bodies and mindset.

Oxygen Plus is recreational oxygen offering 95% pure oxygen in light-weight canisters to help boost energy levels and brain activity.

Three-packs start as low as $23.97 oxygenplus.com

Celebrate the 100th birthday of the great Edith Piaf, with an extensive anthology, limited and numbered to 10,000 copies worldwide. The 20 disc, 350 track boxed set contains more than 20 hours of music featuring many Piaf classics, rare recording sessions, interviews and live performances.

The set also incudes a 30-page book on Piaf with photos and scenes from her life. $169.98 amazon.com

Make a statement with Hiroshi Yamano’s Nagare 060 from the artist’s From East to West series, a magnificent blown and hot sculpted glass piece with silver leaf engraving and copper electroplating, 12.5”h x 7”w x 5”w. $5600 Galleria Silecchia | 20 S. Palm Avenue, Sarasota | 941.365.7414 | galleriasilecchia.com

November 2015

|

SCENE

43

What better time than the holidays to ignite her passion with Hearts On Fire’s Illustrious Engagement Ring, a perfectly cut diamond weighing 1 carat, accented with additional diamonds on the band. Starting at $13,250.

Carats Fine Jewelry and Watches | 1922 Bay Road, Sarasota | 941.926.3335 | caratsfinejewelryandwatches.com

Nina Nguyen bracelets, wristlets, cuffs and earrings are sure to wow any woman. Starting at $245.

Milan’s Jewelry | 1666 Main Street, Sarasota | 941.953.5871 | milansjewelry.com

Dance, drama, music, laughter, beauty, inspiration.

Buy tickets or a season subscription to local performances and museums. It’s a treat they won’t forget.

Make just one someone happy this season with this delightfully lyrical original painting “I Had a Little Tulip Tree”, by Barbara Krupp, 40” x 30”. $2,800.

Dabbert Gallery | 76 S Palm Avenue, Sarasota | 941.955.1315 | dabbertgallery.com

44

SCENE

|

November 2015

Casual Ambiance

Meets

Authentic Italian

5104 Ocean Blvd. | Siesta Key | 941-349-1423 | cafegabbiano.com Open Daily 5pm-10pm. Tasting Menus available Sunday to Thursday.

This wine and cheese gift basket is the quintessential gourmet gift for the cheese aficionado in your life. Brimming with thoughtfully selected cheeses, this basket includes additional treasures such as Valencia almonds and Morton’s own Balsamic Sweet Onion Jam. Delight your family and friends with this holiday gift of savory goodness. $100 (Gift baskets start at $65) Morton’s Gourmet Market and Catering | 941.955.9856 | 1924 S. Osprey Ave., Sarasota | mortonsmarket.com

Looking for something new and trendy that won’t break the bank? Laura Jean’s has a new line of accessories from NYC including vests, ponchos, scarves, leggings, and leg warmers! Get your gal these fabulous BCBG Fall fringed boots for only $59.

Laura Jean’s Consignments | 3830 S Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota | 941.922.5535 | laurajeansconsignments.com

She’s one-of-a-kind. So why get her something everyone else has? This 118-carat Natural Silver Topaz and Apatite Pendant is her perfect match. $1,950. MK Designs | 30 S Palm Avenue, Sarasota | 941.364.8439 | mymkdesigns.com 46

SCENE

|

November 2015

What’s more perfect for your water-loving woman than the “Be Here Now Fish Necklace” by Thomas Mann? $225 Dream Weaver | 364 St Armands Circle, Sarasota | 941.388-3706 | dreamweavercollection.com

ONE LIFESTYLE. ONE CHOICE. ONE PALM.

RESERVE YOUR BRAND NEW LUXURY APARTMENT HOME TODAY

WWW.ONEPALMSARASOTA.COM | 941-234-4063

Stunning mouth-blown Bohemian glass trees in clear or silvered glass from Juliska. Designed with nesting in mind, the smallest fitting inside the larger ones or used as a cloche for food or objects providing festive decor possibilities all season long. $98 to $248 Melange Home | 64 S. Palm Avenue, Sarasota | 941.444.7969 | melangesarasota.com

Fine wines, Champagne and Port, the finest chocolates, imported cheeses, Parma Prosciutto, Russian Caviar, French Pates, Scottish Smoked Salmon – buy one or order a basket full for those with exquisite taste. Gift baskets start at $55 to as big as you want to go.

As Good As It Gets | 49 S Palm Avenue, Sarasota | 941.373.1839 | asgoodasitgets49palm.com

May the luck of the Irish be yours on St. Patty’s day and also for the holidays! This unique gallery features very different original works from Irish artists including paintings, drawings, limited addition prints, hand blown glass, hand thrown pottery, sculpture, hand designed linen, and fine crafted jewelry. Ceramic art ranges from $60 to $600. Art of Ireland | 45 S Palm Avenue, Sarasota | 941.366.2454

Give a gift of serenity. From our beaches, to our lush vista, landscapes are ideal for everyone’s style.

You can find “The Blue Heron” by C. Ford Riley (30”H X 45”W) and many other spectacular landscapes at Palm Avenue Fine Art | 10 S Palm Avenue, Sarasota | 941.388.7526 | palmavenuefineart.com 48

SCENE

|

November 2015

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

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

Celebrate the great outdoors with this fabulous line of indoor/outdoor pillows. From aquatic life to birds to maps of Sarasota Bay, there is an artful design for everyone. Made from fade resistant polyester fabric, these 18” X 18” pillows will provide years of enjoyment and “Gulf Life” inspiration! $39. Rugs As Art | 6650 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota | 941.921.1900 | rugsasart.com

She’s classic so why not give her a timeless gift – unique perfume bottles. From L to R: Vintage Czech cut glass; Aurene pulled feather art glass signed Mueller; Pulled feather blue iridescent art glass; Vintage hand cut crystal with open stopper, Isabella Adams starfish with Swarovski crystals. Starting from $23.

Woman’s Exchange | 539 S Orange Avenue, Sarasota | 941.955.7859 | sarasotawex.com

This combination aerator, filter, non-spill pourer, and stopper is the perfect gift for your wine-loving friends. Just insert into your bottle and pour. Stand your bottle upright and the pourer catches any drips. Top your wine with the stopper to enjoy a glass later. $29.95 Cheers to Wine | 8225 Natures Way, Lakewood Ranch | 941.306.5804 | cheers-to-wine.com

The 2,000 year old journey of the wise men is retold by local author Ashley Hodge in this delightful new rhyming tale. Brought to life by the glowing images of popular children’s book illustrator, Marina Saumell, each book set includes three beautifully crafted wooden wise men dolls. $24.99 The Journey of the Wise Men | seekersonthesill.com 50

SCENE

|

November 2015

Come cruise with us at

High Tide at High Noon Monday, November 16, 2015 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM Reception at 12:00 PM | Lunch at 12:30 PM

Sarasota Yacht Club 1100 John Ringling Blvd

General Admission: $85 Join us for a Presecco reception, a SOURCE performance, and a fabulously new and exciting fashion show featuring the unique styles of: Blackbird Lifestyle • Dream Weaver Influence Style • Lotus Boutique

To purchase tickets or show support with a sponsorship, visit www.HighTideatHighNoon.org or call (941) 365.3913 x1045 by November 13, 2015 Exclusive Media Sponsor

DESIGN

Steamin’

Versatility

By Jacqueline Miller

C

onvection steam ovens are not new – they’ve been

around

a

few

years now – but the latest and greatest of the lot is by Wolf. I recently stopped by Monark Appliances at 5670 Fruitville Road (941.926.0700) and was wowed by what I learned about this miracle oven.

Foods taste best and are more flavorful when cooked by the proper method. It is not a one size fits all type of thing as most of us do all the time. When steam is combined with the other cooking modes in the Wolf Convection Steam oven, the results are scrumptious. The oven features ten cooking modes: Steam, Auto Steam Bake, Convection, Convection Humid, Convection Steam, Gourmet, Slow Roast, Reheat, Recipes and Keep Warm.

you’re cooking a roast, the fat separates and drips into the baking pan, making your meats

Its unique digital technology sens-

much lower in saturated fat. Reheating dinner? Steam reheats without losing the foods’ orig-

es the amount and size of the food,

inal moisture, which means it tastes as good as when you first made it. Even turkeys come

and automatically adjusts all the de-

out more juicy and golden. Stale bread can come back to life. Your phyllo pastry will even

tails of cooking. It’s that easy.

be crisp and hot around firmly frozen ice cream.

Steaming vegetables instead of

With 25% larger capacity than other models, this convection steam oven gives you the

immersing them in water helps retain

capacity to cook larger items and even multiple dishes at once. Pricing starts at $3,995, but

more vitamins and minerals making

if you can do it, its well worth it. Just think of the healthier dishes you can make and the

them much healthier and vibrant. If

satisfied grins it will put on the faces of those at your dinner table.

52

SCENE

|

November 2015

With food this good, we know you’ll be back.

Join us at our relaxing and fun bar, meet new friends, people watch, and experience an eclectic continental mix of mouthwatering food reminiscent of old world traditions prepared, presented and served with modern excellence.

Where old world traditions meets modern excellence LUNCH | DINNER | DRINKS | AL FRESCO DINING 941.388.4415 | 431 St. Armands Circle cafeleurope.net | Reservations Recommended

54

SCENE

|

November 2015

A Doggone Heroine Julie Altman

W

By Steven J. Smith | Photo by Nancy Guth

hen Julie Altman was a little girl, she al-

that might place a human in danger.

ways believed she would grow up to train

After their harness training, the dogs are then carefully

guide dogs. “I’m not sure where that idea

matched by personality and gait to visually impaired students.

came from,” she laughed. “I ended up go-

For 26 days a student will live, work and learn on campus,

ing down a different path in life, but after I moved to Sarasota

together with his or her new guide dog. Following graduation,

I knew I wanted to get involved with the community and give

the organization continues checking in with the guide dog

back in some way.”

pairs for life. They also offer service dogs that benefit veterans

A Florida native, Altman was born and raised in Dade City,

suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, facility therapy

north of Tampa. She lived in Lexington, KY before returning to

dogs trained to cheer and encourage wounded soldiers, and

her home state in 2000, and then moved to Sarasota in 2013

emotional support dogs that offer companionship and emo-

at the behest of friends who live here and enjoy its myriad

tional support to veterans in their homes.

amenities. When she learned Southeastern Guide Dogs was

Breeding, raising and training guide dogs — as well as

located a short distance from her new home, it was an obvious

keeping up with genetic research and maintaining the best vet-

decision for her to join forces with the organization.

erinarians — is an expensive process, costing tens of thousands

“I contacted Southeastern and started volunteering by go-

of dollars per dog. Southeastern Guide Dogs provides this ser-

ing to the Palmetto campus on Saturday mornings and walking

vice free of charge, so the constant challenge the organization

the dogs,” Altman said. “It’s a wonderful organization. They

faces is raising money to cover its operation costs.

quickly introduced me to the idea of becoming involved in the

“I support Southeastern’s vision of becoming the number

Sarasota Walkathon. I became the sponsorship chair for the

one guide dog organization,” Altman said. “I would love for

2015 event.”

more people to learn about them — to know they’re here, to

Combined with other Walkathons around Florida, which included Bradenton, St. Petersburg, The Villages, Orlando, Tampa, and Fort Myers, the 2015 Walkathon raised an impressive $835,000, she added.

Founded in 1982, Southeastern Guide Dogs creates and nurtures partnerships between visually impaired people and

know the great work they’re doing and to know that anyone can get involved and support the organization.”

Altman added the goal for Southeastern’s next Walkathon, which will take place on March 19, 2016 in Sarasota’s Payne Park, is to raise $105,000 toward an overall goal together with all of its partners of more than $1 million.

guide dogs. Since its inception, the nonprofit has created over

“I’m very confident we will exceed that goal, with the sup-

400 active guide dog partnerships and nearly 3,000 guide

port and help of the generous people of Sarasota,” she said.

dog teams across the country, according to its website. Breeds

“It will be our 30th anniversary next year and there are a lot

include Labradors, golden retrievers, or a blend of the two,

of ways to participate in the Walkathon. We are going to have

called Goldadors.

some fundraisers and we’re offering sponsorship opportunities

Puppy raisers are the first step in the dogs’ training process.

for businesses or individuals that range from $250 to several

These volunteers receive pups at about nine weeks of age,

thousand dollars. There are a lot of benefits they would get

teach them basic obedience skills and take them everywhere

from being a sponsor, such as advertising and publicity. We’re

— to work, out to eat, on trips, even grocery shopping. This

also looking for volunteers to take part in the Walkathon Exec-

real-world exposure prepares the young dogs for the actual sit-

utive Committee in areas such as publicity, sponsorship, team

uations they must master to later guide a visually impaired per-

recruitment, volunteer management, hospitality, operations,

son successfully. At about 14 months, the dogs begin intensive

and so forth. Please come join this world class organization.”

harness training with certified trainers and skilled apprentices.

For more information about participating in, sponsoring or

They learn more than 40 commands — including intelligent

volunteering for next year’s Walkathon, call 941-729-5665 or

disobedience — which means disobeying certain commands

log on to www.guidedogswalkathon.org.

November 2015

|

SCENE

55

56

SCENE

|

November 2015

Creating the Audiences of Tomorrow Ali Bahaj and the Van Wezel Foundation

C

“

By Ryan G. Van Cleave | Photo by Nancy Guth

an you do me one small favor?” says Ali Bahaj

daughter. “I never realized how much went into these shows until I

during our lunchtime interview at Michael’s on

heard the cast talk all about it. It’s amazing!”

East. “Make sure this piece focuses on the Van We-

Those are the sort of experiences Bahaj loves to hear about.

zel Foundation and all the good work they’re do-

He explains, “At the end of the day, it’s really about the legacy

ing versus anything about me?” Long before the main course was

you’ve left for future generations.” And creating lifetime arts and

served, it became clear that this was Bahaj’s way — helping and

culture lovers is truly about making a difference 10, 20, even 50

supporting others is job #1 these days in his “retirement.” The word

years from now.

amuses him since he confesses he’s as busy now as he ever was be-

Bahaj admits he won’t be a lifetime Board Member for the Van

fore. But he never once uses the word “work” because that doesn’t

Wezel Foundation. “It only makes sense to be a member of a board

convey the sense of satisfaction and pleasure he gets from helping

if you bring value. Financial wisdom. Energy. Ideas. And you should

out Ringling College of Art + Design, the Ringling College Library

have fun.” For now, he’s bringing a lot to the table and having a

Association, YMCA, Forty Carrots, and, of course, the Van Wezel

great time all the while. If that ever changes, it’s time to move on to

Foundation. “That’s what’s great about this area. There’s no short-

the next challenge.

age of worthwhile groups to partner with,” he says. “You just have to find the one that interests you most.”

That next challenge, though, won’t involve relocation. While he’s lived all over and seemingly has traveled everywhere, Sarasota

The Ethiopia-born Bahaj is a world traveler, having lived in 6 dif-

is where he’s staying. “I’ve only been here three years, but this is

ferent countries with his wife Gloria and their two children thanks

home. My family came here for the climate, the people, and the

to his business work for a global company, including a 5-year stint

amazing arts and culture environment. We can’t get enough of it.”

in Japan as CEO of Caterpillar Japan. Now Bahaj’s business acumen

It’s exactly that type of enthusiasm that landed him on the Van We-

is making a difference at the Van Wezel Foundation via his efforts as

zel Foundation board only one year after arriving here. He hasn’t

a Board Member and Treasurer. One thing he’s particularly proud

regretted a single moment of his time spent there either. All of his

of about the Foundation is how they are committed to exposing so

anecdotes and experiences shine with optimism.

many young people to arts and culture. “Last year alone, 25,000

Even when the Key Lime Tart arrives (love that pecan-graham

students saw a live show for very little cost at the Van Wezel,” he

crust and cloud of baked meringue!), Bahaj continues finding good

says. “They’re the audiences of tomorrow. An investment like this is

things to say about the Van Wezel Foundation. “The people who

an investment in our future.”

work there are terrific,” he says. “So impressive.” Mary Bensel, who

Indeed, the mission of the Van Wezel Foundation is “to enrich

is the Executive Director of the Van Wezel Hall and is responsible

lives of members of the Gulf Coast community, with an emphasis

for its operations, sets the amazing lineup of shows. Monica Van

on children, through the performing arts while supporting the needs

Buskirk, the Foundation’s CEO and President, quietly does so much

of the Van Wezel — the region’s premier performing arts hall.”

to make the Foundation effective. And the list goes on and on, even

Throughout the year, the Foundation brings an entire lineup of free

past when the Key Lime Tart is finally gone.

or low-cost Schooltime Shows where busloads of area students can

The one name he doesn’t mention? His own. He doesn’t seek

enjoy the firsthand experience of shows such as Skippyjon Jones

acclaim or attention. “The Van Wezel — that iconic part of Saraso-

Snow What, Aesop Bops, Doctor Kaboom Live Wire: The Electricity

ta — is what we should all be proud of and thankful for,” he con-

Tour!, and The Improvised Shakespeare Company. Plus there are

cludes. “That’s where our attention should be.”

Family Night events, where every paid adult ticket (in certain seat-

Well said, Ali Bahaj. Well said indeed. (Though it’s through

ing areas) comes with a free additional child ticket. My own kids

the generosity of people like you that the Van Wezel Foundation

are already counting the days until they can see Cirque Mechan-

can do things we’re all proud of and thankful for! And for that,

ics Pedal Punk, Stomp, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor

we thank you.)

Dreamcoat. “I love how we get to meet the cast backstage after the show and ask questions,” says Valerie Van Cleave, my 11-year-old

For more information on the Van Wezel Foundation, please visit www.vwfoundation.org or call (941) 366-5578.

November 2015

|

SCENE

57

58

SCENE

|

November 2015

A Caring Heart Joan Armour Mendell and the Glasser-Schoenbaum Human Services Center By Ryan G. Van Cleave | Photo by Nancy Guth

“W

hen I was 10 years old, I came home from

having a wonderful life here, and being fortunate enough to be in

Sunday school one day and told my dad I

a position to give back, I owe it to my community and my country

was mad at him,” says Joan Armour Men-

do so.” She readily admits that there’s never enough money for

dell. She explained how a collection bowl

people to support every good cause and every quality, charitable

went around and the other kids all threw pennies in. “But you didn’t

organization. “You have to pick and select the ones you want to

give me pennies to put in!”

support,” she says, and through that support, you find the value of

He reminded her that he gave her a quarter every week. “But

giving. To her, that means a deep feeling of satisfaction as one feels

that’s my candy and bubble gum money,” she pointed out. “Yes,”

with the experience of gift giving. Sure, receiving a gift yourself is

he said. “But if I give you extra pennies to put in, you’re not giving

always nice, but it rarely feels as nice as when you give someone

your own money. You have to learn to give some of what you have.”

else a gift you know they will love. And that’s what giving is —

And she learned that lesson well. From them on, Joan’s life has

deeply satisfying.

been one of giving and sharing. While she supports many groups

Joan has even found a way to use her love of poetry — her own

and charitable organizations these days, such as Asolo Rep, Ring-

form of self-healing after her second husband died — into an ave-

ling College of Art + Design, and Sarasota Memorial Hospital, she

nue for giving. She printed copies of her first two poetry books and

raves about the work being done at the Glasser-Schoenbaum Hu-

let nonprofits sell them for $20 each and keep all the proceeds. “I

man Services Center. This 501(c) not-for-profit organization — often

believe the book sales have accounted for $11,000 so far,” she says.

called “The Center for Caring” — isn’t just a health center. People

“It’s so much more rewarding than just writing a check.”

can go there to get job training, legal help, pediatric services, and much more in one of the 13 buildings on its campus.

The Center’s mission says it all: “Our mission is to enhance the

Here’s her poem “No Telling,” which offers a taste of what she calls her “nonsense verse.”

A hug and a kiss

social services delivery system for underserved individuals and

And a goodnight caress

families so that they may access the services they need to become

And in the morning there’s nothing

participating members of the community.” Each month, 10,000

One has to confess

clients receive services from agencies housed at the Center. The agencies can put their money and efforts into helping so many peo-

What she writes isn’t just all fun and games. She tackles larger

ple because the Center provides a maintenance-free space for the

issues like poverty and the price of oil as deftly as she does the

agencies to work. Any of the 18+ nonprofit agencies housed there

world of politics, as you can see here in her poem “Down Time.”

can use the Conference Center space as well, and their proximity

You either win an election

to so many other health and human service nonprofits make col-

Or get rejection

laboration easier. The Center is also easily accessible by bus and

And if it’s the latter

is a clean, inviting environment clients enjoy visiting. Plus twice a

You have time for reflection

month, a food kitchen gives out free meals to those in need.

“What they do there is simply fantastic,” says Joan. “They help

“The greatest pleasure I get,” Joan says, “is the pleasure of giv-

families. It isn’t just helping moms or men or kids — everyone and

ing.” These days, that means directing a lot of her efforts toward

anyone in need can find help there.” She admits that she didn’t

supporting the Glasser-Schoenbaum Human Services Center. “I

know about it until a few years ago when her companion Robert

don’t need a thank you. I just need to know I’m making a differ-

Coppenrath — who is president of the board of directors — told her

ence.” And in her poetry, in her philanthropy, and in her life, she

about it. Since then, she’s been a staunch supporter and champion

seems to be doing exactly that.

of the Center. “I just wish more people knew about all the good work they do!” she says.

Joan adds, “I’m a firm believer that living in this community,

For more information on the Glasser-Schoenbaum Human Services Center, please visit www.gs-humanservices.org or call (941) 365-4545.

November 2015

|

SCENE

59

60

SCENE

|

November 2015

USF

Sarasota-Manatee

By Sue Cullen | Photo of Dr. Sandra Stone by John Revisky

Forty years ago, the University of South Florida established its Sarasota-Manatee campus, and many events are planned to mark this major milestone. On campus, however, while past achievements are celebrated, everyone from leadership to students has their eyes firmly directed toward a future founded on continued growth, becoming an even more integral part of the community, and most importantly, student success.

November 2015

|

SCENE

61

e are in a time of transition and positioned to make some really dynamic changes that will have significant impact on the region,” says Dr. Sandra Stone, USFSM Regional Chancellor. “We now may accept an unrestricted number of freshman and sophomore students, which puts us in a position to grow enrollment at a time when a lot of economic development is occurring. We want to work closely with the business community to prepare the workforce talent it needs and to grow together.” Groundwork already has been laid, which includes a significant expansion of academic programs and USFSM’s transition to a four-year institution with acceptance of freshman and sophomore students for the first time three years ago – all on a modern campus on Sarasota Bay that is less than 10 years old.

As USFSM has been rolling out a series of events to engage students, faculty, alumni, and the community in its 40th anniversary celebration, work already has begun on implementing its new strategic plan, which is USFSM’s roadmap for planned future growth and holds some intriguing prospects for the entire community. “The shift in student population is just the first big change,” Stone says. “With the strategic plan, you’ll see us grow incrementally over the years in a way that is slow, steady, and planned. We have to add faculty, staff, and space to make it work, and we’ve got to get those needs met so that growth happens smoothly.” What exactly that entails includes a new STEM academic building, NCAA women’s rowing team, and a host of initiatives aimed at student success, community engagement and faculty scholarship.

With about a dozen planned events to mark the 40th anniversary, it is perfect timing to raise awareness within the community of USFSM’s future plans and to create alliances to help bring those plans to life. “We want everyone to understand the significance of having this four-year institution in the community,” says Dennis Stover, Regional Vice Chancellor, University Advancement. “We would like them to see how USFSM serves the workforce and impacts how we feel as a community. We want more people to know that we are a comprehensive four-year institution offering over 40 different academic and certificate programs in four colleges here on campus.”

USFSM is bookending its anniversary celebrations with two signature events. The kick-off was held on September 15 and the 40th Anniversary HospitaBull Gala will be held on March 4, which will be held at Polo Grill’s Fête venue following a pre-gala reception for donors and sponsors at the university’s state-of the-art Culinary Innovation Lab on Main Street in Lakewood Ranch. A third signature event will be an all alumni reunion on February 20. Coming up are a special scholarship reception on February 11 and two Knowledge-A-Bull Speaker Series programs featuring, on January 26, Dr. Aubrey de Grey, a biomedical

62

SCENE

|

November 2015

gerontologist and Chief Science Officer of SENS Research Centers, which is devoted to combating the aging process. Jamie Mayer Phinney, a philanthropist, producer, and social entrepreneur whose consulting business focuses on cultivating the next generation of philanthropists, will speak on March 2. There also is a Student Showcase for Projects, Research and Innovation on February 19.

The timing of these events is fortuitous as USFSM ramps up its marketing and communication efforts to engage a variety of audiences from local business leaders and philanthropists to alumni and student populations, including those that are currently underrepresented. “We want everyone to know the number one priority in our strategic plan is student success, not just in terms of graduating them, but ensuring they will be successful when they graduate,” Stover says. “With a thirteen to one student-to-faculty ratio, we are small enough that we can concentrate on them individually. We are the size of a private institution with all the benefits of a state university.”

USFSM board member and alumna Anne Weintraub, a prominent Sarasota attorney who focuses her practice on real estate law, concurs with Stover’s assessment. “When I came here, this was a haven, a safe place for me,” Weintraub says. “Like a private school, there was always an open door and people were there for me. Today we have a lot of people in our workforce who went here, and it’s exciting to see how they have grown and how well they have done.” Although the university itself has grown since Weintraub’s graduation, the student experience seems to have remained essentially the same.

Lauren Henry enrolled in USFSM’s first freshman class two years ago following her graduation from Sarasota Christian Academy. Henry is now a senior, having completed a year of college courses while still in high school. In the spring, she will graduate from USFSM’s College of Business, which is accredited by AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), a distinction earned by less than 5 percent of the world’s business programs. “I chose to come here because it allowed me to get the full college experience without having to uproot myself and start all over somewhere else,” she says. “I’m also a dancer with the Sarasota School of Russian Ballet and staying here allowed me to continue to do that.”

Henry plans to attend graduate school and believes that being on a smaller campus, while still having access to the resources of a large institution, has helped her build the credentials she will need. “It’s a personalized experience, and everyone is so incredibly helpful. They want to be sure we get what we need to be successful in our future career path, and they tailor it to meet your needs. In a smaller school, there also are more opportunities open to students. I’ve been able to be on committees, work closely with professors, have input on events, and great access to internships and job opportunities,” she says. “It is hard to stand out at a larger school with so many students. At the same time, we’re part of a huge university with access November 2015

|

SCENE

63

to events and classes on the Tampa and St. Petersburg campuses and to football games.”

Having freshmen and sophomores on campus creates a need for more space, extended hours for study, student assistance, daytime classes and faculty, and additional activities to engage students on campus. USFSM has addressed some of these needs with added library resources, a renovated Information Commons that provides space for individual and group studies and is wired to accommodate students’ devices, and some recently constructed basketball and sand volleyball courts. USFSM also is in the final stages of approval for an NCAA women’s rowing team housed on campus. “If we do get the rowing team, it is something people can rally around, and it will add lots of energy to campus,” Stone says. “It will make us more visible and actively engaged in the community.” As a growing fouryear institution, a new student union also is on the radar screen. Establishing student housing needs to be a consideration, particularly as USFSM expands its reach beyond the campus’s traditional service area and if the rowing team is approved, Stone says.

Many people know about USF Sarasota-Manatee’s dynamic Hospitality Management program and its partnerships throughout the tourism-rich region, but USFSM also is in the final stages of funding for a new STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) building, which Stone says is on track for approval in the next couple of years. USFSM’s College of Arts and Sciences recently added a new biology major in collaboration with Mote Marine Laboratory. It has already been a success, attracting over 100 students immediately. The University of South Florida is a highly regarded research institution and is ranked number 10 in patents, number 73 among the nation’s top research universities, and one of just 40 public research universities nationwide with a prestigious community-engaged designation from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. USFSM’s strategic plan aims to build on that strength.

The plan calls for a focus on faculty scholarship encouraging research and scholarly productivity, assistance with grants and other funding, and cultivating student-faculty collaboration in research activities.

“We are looking at how to incorporate undergraduate students in research programs,” Stone says. “That is a real competitive advantage for them when it comes to getting into graduate school.” At the same time, plans are to incorporate the latest learning technologies and methodologies into all academic programs.

While science, technology and math are vital, leading-edge educational thinking also points to the benefits of arts-integration. USFSM’s Center for PAInT (Partnerships for Arts-Integrated Teaching) works

64

SCENE

|

November 2015

closely with arts organizations to teach budding educators how to incorporate the arts into all aspects of the curriculum. “Our students learn the importance of integrating arts into everything from literature to math,” Stover says. “We are one of only a few colleges in the country that has made it a requirement for the education curriculum.” USFSM also is exploring, as part of its strategic plan, an addition of fine arts programming.

Accomplishing all of this will require cementing community-wide partnerships and securing the necessary resources to achieve USFSM’s vision of the future. An Office of Community Engagement is planned for outreach to key constituencies like local economic development organizations and businesses and a variety of other organizations. “We not only want to be sure we are meeting business needs, but internships, particularly paid internships, are important,” Stone says. “We know paid internships can be hard for small businesses, but more than 75 percent of our students work, and the majority of those work full time. They need the experience, but can’t afford to take a semester off to work an unpaid internship.”

Scholarships are critical for USFSM students, especially as the campus addresses underserved populations. This year’s Giving Challenge, for instance, raised $45,000 for scholarships to aid in outreach to first generation students. USFSM also is working to establish a Veterans Center on campus that will provide specialized resources, and it is working with organizations like Unidos Now to connect more effectively with Hispanic populations.

As important as scholarships are, unrestricted discretionary funds play a critical role in enabling students to participate in activities that help them reap the full benefit of their educations. Donors can support students to study abroad, take unpaid internships or travel to present research findings, and the new strategic plan offers many other opportunities to become engaged and make an impact, Stone says. “This is an opportunity for our institution to make some strategic changes that will have a high impact and allow us to become even more integral to the community,” she says. “This is a very special place. The students, faculty and staff are wonderful. They like to have fun, but are serious about their work and work hard. I’m proud of them, and I feel fortunate to be here.”

Those who would like additional information about USFSM’s strategic plan may visit usfsm.edu/strategic-plan, and information about 40th Anniversary events is available at usfsm.edu/40.

November 2015

|

SCENE

65

Artfully Inspired.

Cuisine.

941.360.7390 RESTAURANT GROUP

Š2015 Tableseide Restaurant Group. All Rights Reserved. All names and their logos are trademarks of the Tableseide Restaurant Group.

musesarasota.com

Social Make-A-Wish All White Party Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida, Sarasota Region held its second annual Wish event at Michael’s on East. Guests beautifully dressed in all white were greeted by a frosted fortress of luxury with everything adorned in white draping and decorations. Proceeds will directly support the Make-A-wish mission to grant the wishes of children with lifethreatening medical conditions in our local community.

Photos by Nancy Guth

Sheryl Viera & Salena Wilhoit

Lauren Ralph

Jaimi & Josh Lowe

THERE ARE MOMENTS IN LIFE THAT YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS...

THIS IS ONE OF THEM

Maria Agostino, Charles Githler, Melissa Howard & Mary Gratehouse

Amanda & Tripp Sines with Michelle Ikerd

PROUDLY INTRODUCING

THE SHERIDA N at L AKEWOOD R A NCH Senior Lifestyle is bringing best-in-class assisted living and award-winning memory care to Lakewood Ranch, Florida with The Sheridan, our next generation of retirement communities.

Scheduled to open in the spring of 2016, The Sheridan is now accepting reservations.

Call us to find out more about our Diamond Charter Membership!

ARE YOU ON THE LIST? CALL 941-893-1982 TO LEARN MORE OR TO JOIN US FOR ONE OF OUR INFORMATIONAL LUNCHEONS.

WELCOME CENTER 8141 LAKEWOOD MAIN STREET, SUITE N-102 LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL 34202 WWW.SENIORLIFESTYLE.COM

SHALL BE APPLYING FOR LNS ASSISTED LIVING LICENSE

114940 LWR_ssm_7x4_nov+jan_moment.indd 1

November 2015

|

SCENE

67

10/6/15 1:56 PM

Heart

68

SCENE

|

November 2015

Tugs During the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, we focus on party planning, food, tree trimming and presents. We get so caught up in the fun part of the holidays that many of us forget those not as fortunate whose holidays won’t be the same as ours.

There are many simple acts of kindness we can do such as visit the elderly in a nearby retirement home; take a meal to someone having a tough time; volunteer at church; give something extra to a server at a restaurant; send a care package to someone in the military; bake cookies for your local firemen or policemen; or donate pet food and toys to your local shelters.

In keeping with this giving spirit, we asked several nonprofits in the health and human services sector to make it easy for our readers to find ways they can help.

Every contribution, no matter how large or small, is invaluable to someone in need. It doesn’t take much to make a difference in someone’s life and what better time to do it than during the season of giving.

Friendship Centers

Mission & Services Since 1973, the Friendship Centers has promoted health, dignity and quality of life throughout the journey of aging for thousands of area older adults and their families.

Its services in Sarasota and Venice include a medical and dental clinic for persons 50 and older, a robust Senior Center for classes, exercise, music, lunches and socialization, in-home support, meals and counseling for the elderly as well as a Caregiving Center offering adult day services, caregiver support and access to community resources.

How You Can Help Friendship Center’s immediate needs during the holiday and all-year round include: $300 for a partial set of dentures for a limited income senior;

$200 for a month of nutritious meals for a hungry senior; $125 for one breast cancer screening, including mammogram for a senior in need; $60 for a comprehensive dental exam with full x-rays for a senior in need; $30 for one month of twice weekly balance movement classes for a limited income senior.

Volunteer Opportunities Friendship Centers have over a 1,000 volunteers who embrace the organization’s motto of “People Helping People.” To find out ways you can volunteer, call 941955-2122. friendshipcenters.org November 2015

|

SCENE

69

Goodwill Manasota

Mission & Services Goodwill Manasota Changes Lives Through the Power of Work. When you donate your unwanted items, shop in its stores, or make a financial contribution, you are helping Goodwill to create job training and employment opportunities for people with disabilities and barriers to employment.

How You Can Help Goodwill Manasota is always in need of unwanted and gently used clothes and items. They also look for books to help its Good Readers Program. Items donated to Goodwill are considered a financial contribution to help create jobs.

YMCA Foundation

Mission & Services The Sarasota YMCA is a nonprofit organization committed to strengthening the community through youth development by nurturing the potential of every child and teen; healthy living by improving the community’s health and well-being; and social responsibility by giving back and providing support to our neighbors. Every day, the Y works to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

How You Can Help Berlin Branch YMCA Child Care Department is in need of

70

SCENE

|

November 2015

Volunteer Opportunities Goodwill Manasota’s Ambassador Program is in need of volunteers who are interested in becoming a career-mentor to young adults transitioning from foster care and helping them on their way to becoming self-sufficient or helping a veteran as they reintegrate back into the civilian workforce. Goodwill also needs volunteers for its Good Readers program to help engage, develop and foster a love of reading to students at Title I schools in Sarasota and Manatee counties. experiencegoodwill.org | 941.355.2721

toys/games (i.e.) play doh, board games, finger paint, etc. for the child watch area due to a fire that destroyed all of these items this summer. Y Achievers Program in need of $25 gift cards for Wal-Mart or Target to give to students currently enrolled in college and receiving scholarship support.

Volunteer Opportunities You can change a child’s life by giving one hour, once a week, on the school campus during the school day as a Y Mentor. Each volunteer is trained and assigned a student. Many other volunteer opportunities are available.

941.951.1336 | thesarasotay.org

Child Protection Center

Mission & Services Child Protection Center’s mission is the prevention, intervention, and treatment of child abuse. CPC provides the investigative and therapeutic services to children and families in crisis when abuse is suspected. CPC also educates children about their personal safety and teaches professionals and the community-at-large about identifying and reporting child abuse.

How You Can Help CPC’s complete wish list can be found at cpcsara-

sota.org/donate/wish-list. New, unwrapped toys, stuffed animals, books, and clothing are provided to families over the holidays. Donated new or gently used infants to teen-sized clothing and shoes are needed and made available to any family in need.

Volunteer Opportunities For current volunteer needs, contact Karen Misantone at 941-365-1277, Ext. 117. cpcsarasota.org

Jewish Federation Sarasota-Manatee

Mission & Services Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee fulfills its mission by supporting programs that assist people in need in Sarasota-Manatee, in Israel and around the world. The Federation creates a sense of community for thousands of area residents through programs aimed at strengthening the relationship between the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish community and the broader society of which it is a part. Through its partners, the Federation provides a wide range of cultural and educational opportunities.

How You Can Help Federation’s programs include providing food for the hungry, rescue and relief efforts for isolated Jews in dis-

tressed regions, and supporting innovative educational outreach initiatives. Federation distributes grants for children to attend summer camp, disburses thousands of dollars in college scholarships and provides life-sustaining food for homebound seniors in the former Soviet Union. Your financial support makes these, and so many other programs, possible.

Volunteer Opportunities Federation has volunteer opportunities in several categories: adult activity; cultural arts; family programming; Holocaust awareness; interfaith outreach; office work; mailings; proofreading, and more. 941.371.4546 | jfedsrq.org November 2015

|

SCENE

71

Second Chance Last Opportunity

Mission & Services Second Chance-Last Opportunity (SCLO) is a 501(c) 3 grassroots organization that offers life management skills classes to at-risk teens, families and individuals in crisis. Along with the strategies and skills for success, SCLO offers counseling, health education, youth programs, and shelter referrals.

Most importantly, SCLO gives back the responsibility to the individuals they serve for turning their lives around.

How You Can Help Donations of calculators and Wal-Mart gift cards for the ‘Out Of The Box’ youth program’s money management exercises. Unwrapped toys for the holidays, newborn through

12 years. Personal hygiene items for both men and women.

New baby items (assorted sizes of diapers, baby wipes and assorted clothing up to 3T.) Office supply store gift cards to purchase cases of paper, ink cartridges, all-in-one printer, and other supplies.

Volunteer Opportunities Help to distribute food baskets and gifts to families during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Mentors for youth served in the ‘Out Of The Box’ program. New Event Planning Committee members. Collection organizers for new or gently used clothing (children and adults), toys or baby items. 941.360.8660 | secondchancelastopportunity.org

Glasser Schoenbaum Human Services Center Mission & Services Glasser Schoenbaum Human Services Center is Sarasota’s Campus of Caring, housing 17 human service non-profit agencies who work to address the needs of individuals, families, and children in our community.

How You Can Help Because the Center serves as a conduit to 17 nonprofits, it often functions as a clearinghouse for those looking to donate goods or services. If an individual or a group has items to donate or hours to volunteer, the Center can immediately survey the organizations on campus to see if one of them could use the items or mobilize the volun-

72

SCENE

|

November 2015

teers. The Center sees this as an important function of its administrative support for the Center.

Volunteer Opportunities: The Center often needs year-round volunteers for assistance with landscaping and grounds maintenance. They also frequently have office painting needs and minor construction projects to help with the upkeep of the campus.

As mentioned above, the Center can connect volunteers with other agencies on campus that have many and varying needs throughout the year. 941.365.4545 | gs-humanservices.org

JFCS

Mission & Services JFCS provides comprehensive counseling and social services to those confronting life’s challenges through a variety of programs for adults, caregivers, children and adolescents, families, seniors, veterans, and the homeless.

How You Can Help JFCS VIP-ER Program. The Voluntary Interim Placement Enhanced Recovery Program (VIP-ER) is a comprehensive and collaborative Drug and Alcohol Treatment Program for individuals struggling with addiction. Holiday needs: gifts for children whose parents are in treatment during holidays. Everyday needs: monetary donations for driver’s licenses, bus passes, work clothing/tools, alarm clocks, calendars, daily medication dividers, bicycles and house hold good for individuals transitioning into stable housing.

Contact Program Coordinator Jessica R. Gastman, LCSW | 941.284.0606 | JGastman@JFCS-Cares.org JFCS Building Strong Families Homelessness Prevention Program (BSF) supports the community efforts to end homelessness by focusing on prevention of homelessness for families with children. Holiday needs: gifts for the children of the families they service and bikes for those with transportation issues. Everyday needs: gas cards, bus passes, Wal-Mart Gift cards, diapers of all sizes, wipes, personal hygiene products and donations/funds to cover

driver license reinstating fee, driver license or state ID and Birth Certificate issue fee. Contact program coordinator Claudia Penarenas | 941.366.2224 ext. 148 | CPenarenas@JFCS-Cares.org JFCS Operation Military Assistance (OMAP) Program.

OMAP houses homeless Veterans and their families in Manatee, Sarasota, DeSoto and Charlotte counties.

OMAP provides rental and security deposit assistant as well as emergency household items. Everyday needs: shaving kits, blankets, linens, salt/oral rehydration packets, backpacks, bikes, portable personal coolers, recycled phones, rain ponchos, bug repellant and travel toiletries.

Contact program coordinator Wilfredo Tellado | 941.366.2224 ext. 184 | WTellado@JFCS-Cares.org JFCS Cancer Support & Wellness Program. JFCS provides support and educational services for cancer patients and caregivers, including support groups, exercise programs, and expressive arts programs. Everyday needs: The program needs cash donations, help spreading the word in the community about the program, and help identifying people impacted by cancer dealing with isolation, Yoga bolsters, hand weights, exercises bands, yoga mats and blankets. Contact project coordinator Andrea Feldmar, LMHC, 941.366.2224 ext. 167 | AFeldmar@JFCS-Cares. org | jfcs-cares.org

November 2015

|

SCENE

73

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc.

(Programs and Services in Sarasota and Manatee Counties) Mission & Services In devotion and adherence to the teachings of Jesus and the Catholic Church, Catholic Charities seeks to serve and empower ALL in need regardless of race, nationality or creed. Bethesda House of Catholic Charities is a drop in community center for those suffering from the HIV/ AIDS disease. Our Mother’s House of Catholic Charities is a transitional housing program for homeless mothers and their children to help them achieve self-sufficiency.

St. Martha’s Early Learning Center of Catholic Charities is a preschool and child-care center for low-income families that prepares young students for kindergarten. Catholic Charities Family Haven is a new emergency shelter for families with children who are homeless, which provides case management services to assist them in becoming permanently housed. The Housing Counseling and Foreclosure Prevention Program of Catholic Charities is a certified HUD program that assists first time homeowners and those that are at risk of foreclosure.

How You Can Help Bethesda House is in need of volunteers to lend a hand in

the food pantry, clothing closet and/or assist with unloading the food truck. Non-perishable food items along with toilet paper and paper towels are needed. Our Mother’s House is looking for volunteers to assist the teachers in the Head Start classrooms with feeding and playing with the children who reside at the program. The program also is looking for volunteers to adopt families during the holidays to provide them with Christmas gifts. St. Martha’s Early Learning Center needs volunteers to assist teachers in the classroom. Tasks include reading to the children, engaging in individual and group activities, and providing help with mealtime. The program is in need of Little Tikes plastic wagons. Family Haven is looking for volunteers to adopt families during the holidays to provide them with Christmas gifts. The Catholic Charities Family Haven is in need of quilts and throws, towel sets, single sheet sets, diapers, wipes, and gift cards for groceries and gas. The Housing Counseling and Foreclosure Prevention Program is in need of volunteers to help with administrative work such as data entry and client registration.

941.355.4680, ext. 305 | ccdis1.org

The Salvation Army of Sarasota

Services The Center of Hope provides Emergency Shelter, Community Feeding Substance abuse treatment programs, transitional housing for families. The Quality Life Center provides Emergency Financial Assistance and Social Services How You Can Help The food services department would like a new warehouse. They also need a refrigerator, a van and supplies for a hydroponic garden. The Shelter needs hand and shower-size towels, twin bed sheets, hand soap, shampoo and clothing. The Transitional housing program needs cleaning supplies, dishes, utensil for new homes,

twin, full and queen size bedding, pots & pans, shower curtains, Hygiene products (shampoo, bar soap, liquid soap, tooth paste and brushes, deodorant), laundry soap, and paper products.

Volunteer Opportunities Holidays: Angel Tree Toy Warehouse - Dec 1-Dec 21; Angel Tree Distribution - Dec 19-23; Fill The Truck - Dec 5 & 12; Bell Ringers - Nov 27-Dec 24.

Year round: Clerical and administrative, kitchen help, homework tutors, after school program assistance, babysitting, drivers, emergency disaster services. 941.364.8845, ext. 222 | Sharna.Rozin@USS.SalvationArmy.org

Meals on Wheels

Mission & Services Meals on Wheels of Sarasota, Inc. (MOW) delivers nutritious meals to persons in need in the Sarasota community who are unable to provide or prepare a meal for themselves in their home. More than 160,000 meals are delivered annually throughout a 600-square-mile area bordered by Blackburn Point Road to the south, to University Parkway to the north, Lido/Longboat and Siesta Keys to the West to I-75 to the East by dedicated volunteers using their own vehicles and gas. Its goal is to enable seniors, and mentally and physically disabled members of our community to live independently in their homes with dignity.

74

SCENE

|

November 2015

How You Can Help MOW, a privately funded non-profit, has served its Sarasota neighbors since 1971 without government funding, depending solely on donations from individuals, corporations, religious and civic organizations, as well as grants and bequests. Cash donations are always needed. Every $27 gift equals one week of hot, nutritious meals and endless hope. MOW is also in need of a lightly used van for food delivery.

Volunteer Opportunities Meals on Wheels of Sarasota has provided more than 6,000,000 meals to residents of Sarasota ALL SERVED

BY VOLUNTEERS! Volunteers come from high schools and colleges, from churches and civic associations, and from homeowner association and corporations. MOW encourages high school and college students to volunteer to complete their community service hours. To volunteer as a meals driver you only need a valid driver’s license and proof of auto insurance. MOW provides the necessary volunteer training and will work with your schedule.

MOW delivers meals Monday through Saturday from 10 am to noon. Its service area is divided into 32 routes

from Blackburn Point Road to University Parkway, from the Keys to I-75. Every day drivers pick up 500+ meals at MOW’s kitchen at 421 North Lime Avenue, Sarasota, and deliver them to clients. Other volunteer opportunities include meal packaging, kitchen help and clerical/ desk positions. Preparing and packaging meals requires a commitment of one day a week from 8 am to 10:30 am. Clerical volunteers are welcome to join any weekday, mornings or afternoons. 421 North Lime Avenue, Sarasota | 941.366.6693 | mealsonwheelsofsarasota.org

All Faiths Food Bank

Mission & Services All Faiths Food Bank leads the community to end hunger.

Last year alone nearly 170,000 people in our community, the majority of whom are educated and hard-working, could not afford to buy enough food and basic life necessities. With a sustained, high need for food and an ever-growing gap between those in need and the amount the food bank can provide, All Faiths Food Bank is planning a $3.1 million expansion to double its size and capacity, with the help of a $1 million lead gift from the Benderson Family.

SunCoast Blood Bank

Mission & Services SunCoast Blood Bank provides a reliable supply of quality blood products and services to hospitals and health centers in need in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte and Desoto counties. Established in 1949, SunCoast has been serving local hospitals for 66 years.

How You Can Help Holiday season is typically the most challenging time of the year for blood collections as many blood donors are busy travelling and enjoying family activities. However, the need for blood donations never takes a holiday. Trauma victims,

How You Can Help Monetary donations are needed to help the facility expansion plans. Donations of food or funds will help support school programs, provide fresh produce to families, keep our veterans from going hungry, and keep seniors from having to choose between buying medicine or food.

Volunteer Opportunities AFFB needs volunteers at its Mobile Pantry distributions, in its sorting rooms, and for nutrition education programs year round.

8171 Blaikie Court, Sarasota | allfaithsfoodbank.org | 941379-6333

newborns in crisis, cancer patients and other critically ill patients still need blood transfusions during this time. Please check the SCBB website for special incentives that encourage people to donate blood throughout December.

Volunteer Opportunities Suncoast has various volunteer opportunities to encourage the public to donate at businesses and community events. Volunteers are also needed for courier services and clerical assistance.

866.97.BLOOD (for a donation location closest to you) | scbb.org

Children First

Mission & Services Children First, Inc. is the exclusive provider of Head Start and Early Head Start educational services in Sarasota County. Its mission is “to strengthen children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health and well-being.” The organization, nationally recognized as a “Program of Excellence,” currently serves over 600 at-risk children from birth to five years old and their families, at 13 sites throughout the county.

How You Can Help Donations of new, unwrapped toys, books, clothing or gift cards are requested for the annual holiday drive, serving children age 6 weeks to five years. Monetary contributions are welcome in any amount, to help provide baby formula, snacks, enriching field trips, extended-day care, and more.

Volunteer Opportunities Volunteers are needed during the holidays to help sort donations and package gifts. Help is also needed year-round, with classroom activities, nurturing babies, and facility maintenance. 941.953.3877 | childrenfirst.net

November 2015

|

SCENE

75

T H E C I R C U S A R T S C O N S E R V A T O R Y P R E S E N T S

CIRCUS

2015/16

SAIlOR CIRCUS HOlIdAY PERfORmANCE Sat Dec 26–tue Dec 29, 2015 celebrate the holiday season circus style! a wonderful family experience featuring students ages 8–18 who will make your spirits bright!

CIRCUS SARASOTA WINTER PERfORmANCE Fri Feb 12–Sun Feb 28, 2016 back by popular request, bello nock will headline the 2016 show, featuring an unparalleled array of thrilling acts. Last year’s shows sold out so plan to get your tickets early!

CIRqUE dES VOIx Sat Mar 19 & Sun Mar 20, 2016 this powerful performance combines world-class circus acts with the 100+ voices of the Key chorale and the musical expertise of the 30-piece cirque Orchestra.

SAIlOR CIRCUS SPRINg SHOW thur Mar 31–Sat apr 9, 2016 One of Sarasota’s most important traditions, the 67th edition of the Sailor circus Spring Show presents 100+ youth performers to amaze audiences. a must-see for all circus fans!

circusarts.org 941.355.9805 the circus arts conservatory is a 501(c)3 non-profit performing arts educational organization.

76

SCENE

|

November 2015

Easter Seals Southwest Florida

Mission & Services Easter Seals provides exceptional services for persons with disabilities and their families across a lifetime by empowering individuals to live their lives to the fullest.

How You Can Help Easter Seals is in need of donations as follows: men’s clothing and underwear (larger sizes); children’s clothing-all types and especially new or gently used fall and winter jackets sizes 18 months to size 12 boys and girls; wipes and diapers especially size 4/5 toddler pull ups; art supplies; latex-free gloves (sizes large – xlarge); unwrapped Christmas toys for children of all ages 0-18 years of age; baby food stage 2/3 years & baby snacks (puffs, etc.), kids snacks and apple juice.

Volunteer Opportunities Fall Fest 11/6 from 9am-2pm; Food Drive 11/20 from 9am and 7:00pm; Preparing food boxes for needy families 11/21 Noon-8 PM, 11/23 8AM -5 PM, 11/24 8AM -5 PM; Monthly Kids Night Out Event 11/21 3-8pm; Christmas Party 12/11 4-8pm and gift wrapping leading up to this event; Readers for the Lily School Reading Program. 350 Braden Ave. Sarasota, FL 34243 | 941.355.7637 ext. 404 | easterseals-swfl.org

Southeastern Guide Dogs

Mission & Services Southeastern Guide Dogs (SEGD) transforms lives by creating and nurturing partnerships between inspiring people and extraordinary dogs. SEGD serves about 450 graduates across the U.S. and places more than 100 dogs each year into careers benefiting people with visual impairments and veterans. All of its services are provided free of charge and SEGD receives no government funding.

How You Can Help A gift to support a puppy is key to helping them reach their destiny as superheroes serving a visually impaired person or a veteran. Donations make a wonderful holiday gift and help make it possible for SEGD to provide extraordinary dogs at no cost.

Volunteer Opportunities SEGD is always looking for Puppy Raisers: the volunteer families that welcome the adorable future guide dogs into their homes at about 10 weeks of age and help SEGD mold them into future superheroes. Puppy Raisers teach basic obedience and house manners and take their dogs everywhere they go, exposing them to the real world at work, the grocery store, restaurants and more. The puppies return to campus for their formal harness training sometime after they turn one. 4210 77th St. East, Palmetto, FL 34221 | 941-729-5665 | GuideDogs.org

Engage. Tomorrow. Today.

Help us create a brighter future by opening the door to educational dreams.

The Foundation for our community’s College.

Start a conversation with our expert staff and learn more about opportunities to support scholarships and programs by contacting Cassandra Holmes, Executive Director, 941-752-5390 or holmesc@scf.edu.

scffoundation.net

La Mu sica

Sonata a Due

te rn

In

ation

al Cha mbe r M usic F es

reception | dinner | recital

FedericoAgostini, violin DerekHan, piano December 7, 2015 6:00 p.m.

Michael’s On East information and reservations: Janet Hunter 941-371-6798

l tiva

3

al u n n 0 th A

sponsored by

LaMusicaFestival.org

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

Traditional Continental Cuisine. Award Winning Wine List.

Awarded One of Sarasota’s Most Romantic Restaurant. Casual Bistro Dining Available.

Elegant Grounds for Special Occasions.

Dinner Tuesday – Sunday 5pm

Holiday

Cheer

By Elizabeth Brissette, Colleen Fortier, Chloe Jing & Sogn Zamrzla

November 2015

|

SCENE

79

I

80

SCENE

|

t’s sometimes challenging to feel the holiday spirit in Florida due to our profound lack of snow. But our local restaurants are doing their part to bring the festive spirit to life in our community. Next time you’re in the mood for a holiday pick-me-up, bring your family, friends, and coworkers to these cool eateries to enjoy the best seasonal drinks in town!

November 2015

Blue Frosty Martini (aka The Drunken Elf) Bring the winter season to the Gulf Coast at Café L’Europe, whose contribution to the festive spirit is a Blue Frosty Martini. This icy delight showcases blueberry purée throughout and has a graham cracker or brown sugar-encrusted rim topped with a splash of whipped cream vodka. Yum! Recipe: 2 oz Whipped Cream Vodka 2 oz Blue Cuacao Liquor Dollop of Blueberry Puree Dollop of Whipped Cream All shaken with ice, then strained and poured into brown sugar or graham cracker crumbed rimmed glass.

Limóncello Martini Brighten up your holidays at Café Gabbiano where they’re offering a traditional Italian martini, the zesty yellow Limóncello. Their limóncello ages for two weeks in an Everclear and fresh lemon base before it’s mixed with Purity vodka and garnished with a lemon slice. “It’s the perfect drink after a large meal,” says owner Marc Grimaud. “It settles the stomach.”

Recipe: Chill martini glass by filling with ice. Pack shaker with ice, then add: 1.5 oz Homemade (Or Store Bought) Limoncello 1.5 oz Vodka 1 oz Sour mix Shake well for 15 seconds, pour into chilled martini glass and enjoy!

Catdaddy Eggnog At State Street Eating House + Cocktails, their Catdaddy Eggnog is a “Holiday in your mouth!� says owner Chris Voelker. It all starts with homemade eggnog where the egg is literally cracked in front of you. To add rich flavor, they add 2 ounces of handmade, spiced Catdaddy Carolina Moonshine.

The hints of vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon give the eggnog just enough zest. Poured into a chilled glass and garnished with freshly-grated nutmeg, this drink will make for the perfect holiday cocktail.

82

SCENE

|

November 2015

Jolly Grinch Spice things up at Libby’s Café + Bar with their new holiday drink, the Jolly Grinch.

Made with Nolet’s Silver Gin and freshlyjuiced cucumber, basil, and jalapeño, this dessert drink also features green apple purée and lime juice. Decorated with a lime wedge, mint sprig and pomegranate seeds, the Jolly Grinch is a refreshing way to end any evening.

Recipe: 1.5 oz Nolet's Silver Gin 1.0 oz Cucumber, Basil, Jalepeño Juice Blend .50 oz Fresh Lime Juice .50 Green Apple Puree Add all ingredients and shake together well, strain to glass of choice and garnish with lime wheel, mint sprig, and pomegranate seeds.

November 2015

|

SCENE

83

84

SCENE

|

November 2015

North Palm Heat up the holidays with a smoky citrus play on an Old Fashioned at Louies Modern. This Four Roses Yellow bourbon blend — called a North Palm — is a joy to order because the bartender lights a cedar plank then captures the smoke in a glass before mixing in the alcohol, the blood orange marmalade (made in house!), Bitter Truth Aromatics, and amaretto. Topped with an orange peel, this tasty treat is sure to satisfy.

Recipe: 1.5 oz Four Roses Bourbon 1.0 oz Blood Orange Marmalade .75 oz Lazzaroni Amaretto .50 Fresh Lime Juice 2 dashes Angostura Bitters Add all ingredients and shake together well. Lightly torch cedar plank and place rocks glass on plank to trap smoke into glass. Fill glass with ice and strain drink into glass.

Garnish with orange twist

November 2015

|

SCENE

85

The Wit & Wisdom of Aging Luncheon A Luncheon to Benefit Pines of Sarasota Commit tee

Rehabilitation and Senior Care Community

Tuesday, November 17, 2015 Co-Chairs: Jane Hunder & Marilyn 11:30 am –SHuMan 1:30 pm honorary Chair: Betty ScHoenBauM Michael’s On East To purchase tickets Melissa Lerner Lis call Begin941.955.6293 or email tarnell@pinesfoundation.org

Bonti Burgess

Bonni London

Erin Hurter

Nancy Pinder

Sue Jacobson

Hannah Weinberg

Beth Kellett

Nancy White

Janet Lange

Anne Virag

Moderator: Ray Collins, TV Anchor/Reporter Gloria Flori MossRoberts, Entrepreneur Hope Byrnes Panelists: Gerri Aaron, Philanthropist Dickie Smothers, Entertainer

Sophia LaRusso

on November 3 at Spike ‘n Tees at the Resort at Longboat Key Club.

See the enclosed card for more information and join us for the exclusive Sponsor Party Sponsorship Opportunities are still available.

There’s some serious drama on our campus.

Pines of sarasota rehaBilitation and senior Care Community. and ComPassionate Care Provided eaCh resident and Patient at of sarasota foundation suPPort the exCePtional ProCeeds from the Wit and Wisdom of aging lunCheon helP Pines At Saint Stephen’s, visual and performing arts are part of a student’s experience from the youngest pre-kindergarteners to our seniors. Drama, music, voice, photography, traditional and digital art – it’s all here!

Saint Stephen’s is an independent, college-preparatory school providing a world-class education for students in grades Pre-K3 to12. Schedule a tour today.

315 41st St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209 | (941) 746-2121 | www.saintstephens.org

Lights, Music, Dance & Santa

Christmas Tree at The Ringling Ca’ d’Zan

Bring out the lights, stir up the hot cocoa, and while snow isn’t in the forecast, our city will be aglow in merriment this holiday season just

the same. From tree lightings to Santa sightings to holiday music and dance, it’s nearly impossible to escape the festivities. So grab your honey, your kids, and the rest of your family and enjoy some of the best holiday events and performances for kids of all ages!

November 2015

|

SCENE

87

Sarasota Ballet in Matthew Hart’s John Ringling’s Circus Nutcracker. Photo by Frank Atura.

“A Night Before Christmas” G.T. Bray Park, Bradenton. Photo by Melissa Matisko.

Sunken Garden at Historic Spanish Point

88

SCENE

|

November 2015

Sailor Circus Holiday Show

Holiday Nights at Ca’ d’Zan November 12, 19, December 3, 10, 17 The Ringling Ca’ d’Zan 5:00 pm. Dressed for the holidays, the Ca’ d’Zan features festive fireplace mantels, balconies, doors and a 10-foot-tall tree in the Grand Court. Tickets: $10 | 941.358.3180 | ringling.org Historic Spanish Point’s Holly Days and Mangrove Lights November 27 – December 31 Historic Spanish Point 9:00 am.

Seasonal festival with decorated homestead buildings and lighted gardens in a beautiful 30-acre setting. historicspanishpoint.org Sahib Shrine’s FEZtival of Trees November 27 – 29 Sahib Shriners 9:00 am. Displays and raffles for dozens of Christmas trees donated and decorated by local organizations and businesses. Includes musical entertainment, Santa Claus photo opportunities, a kids workshop, fishpond, and craft fair. Tickets: $2; children under 12 Free | sahibshrine.org Santa Jaws At Mote Marine November 28, December 5, 12 & 19 Mote Aquarium 12:00 pm.

Come meet and take pictures with Gilly the Shark, who will be dressed for the holidays as Santa Jaws. Free with paid Aquarium admission | mote.org Venice Holiday Parade November 28. Pre-Parade Entertainment starts at 5:00 pm on the corner of Harbour Dr. and West Venice Ave. and the corner of Nokomis St. and West Venice Ave. Parade begins at Park Blvd. at 7:00 pm. Enjoy live music, food, and lighting of the downtown holiday decorations. veniceholidayparade.com Annual Light Up The Village Parade And Open House November 28 Siesta Key Village 6:00 pm. Appearance by Santa and his elves, face painting, gift bags for the first 250 children, holiday open house, live entertainment, decorated shops, live Christmas tree, and free trolley rides. 941.349.7718 | siestakeyvillage.org Glorious Christmas December 2 First United Methodist Church 7:00 pm. Celebrate the holiday season with Gloria Musicae with traditional carols.

Tickets: $25 - $30 | 941.387.6046 | gloriamusicae.org Venice’s Downtown Christmas Walk December 3 Historic Downtown Venice 10:00 am. Live entertainment, food and drinks, holiday décor and Santa. venicegov.com Holiday Splendor at The Ringling December 3 The Ringling 5:00 pm. Celebrate the sights and

sounds of the holiday season and support the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots serving Sarasota and Manatee counties. Free with one unwrapped gift per guest or without toy, tickets $5 - $10 | 941.359.5700 | ringling.org Christmas Season Celebrated at Lakewood Ranch December 3, 10, 17, 18 Main Street at Lakewood Ranch 6:30 pm. Ride down Main Street in a horse drawn carriage while you enjoy the sights and sounds of Christmas. You will find Carolers, festive lighting displays, and Santa strolling the streets. lakewoodranch.com/mainstreet 37th Annual St. Armands Holiday Night of Lights December 4 St. Armands Circle 6:00 pm. The Circle “lights up” with thousands of white lights and lighted silhouette decorations.

Santa also makes an appearance. starmandscircleassoc.com A Village Christmas Artwalk December 4 – 5 Village of the Arts, Bradenton 6:00 pm. & 11:00 am. Enjoy the Christmas lights and the galleries decorated for the holidays along with live entertainment, Santa Claus, hot chocolate, treats and holiday shopping. villageofthearts.com Sarasota Jungle Gardens “Holiday Lights Spectacular” December 4 – 5 Sarasota Jungle Gardens 6:00 pm. Enjoy thousands of lights decorating the pathways and surroundings, visit Santa, take a stroll down “Candy Cane Lane,” and live entertainment. Tickets: $6 - $11 | 941.355.1112 | sarasotajunglegardens.com The City of North Port Tree Lighting & Poinsettia Festival December 4 City Hall Campus 6:00 pm. The evening will kick off with the annual tree lighting followed by a festival full of entertainment, a kids area, food and merchandise vendors, gingerbread house display and visits with Jolly St. Nick. 941.429.7275 | cityofnorthport.com Parks & Natural Resources Department’s “A Night Before Christmas” December 5 G.T. Bray Park 4:00 pm. Santa Claus will fly into G.T. Bray Park by helicopter. Featuring 10 tons of snow, face painting, bounce houses, an 18’ inflatable slide, trampoline power jump, hayrides, cookie crafts and visits with Santa. mymanatee.org Cortez Yacht Club’s 11th Annual Holiday Lighted Boat Parade December 5 6:00 pm. Starts at the north end of Longboat Key near the Mar Vista Restaurant, then north on the Intracoastal Waterway, ending at the Seafood Shack Marina in Cortez.

November 2015

|

SCENE

89

Historic Spanish Point Mangrove Lights

Bradenton Yacht Club Holiday Boat Parade

Selby Lights in Bloom

Powel Crosley Theater presents Dickens at the Crosley

90

SCENE

|

November 2015

Venice Christmas Boat Parade of Lights December 5 6:00 pm. “Christmas boat” parade along the Intercoastal Waterway in Venice from the North Jetty south to the Circus Bridge. venicechristmasboatparade.com The Downtown Sarasota Holiday Parade December 5 7:00 pm Starts at the Hollywood 20 and continues to Gulfstream Ave. First Sarasota’s Annual Singing Christmas Tree December 6, 9, 11 – 13 First Sarasota Downtown Baptist Church.

The Singing Christmas Tree features a multi-story tree adorned with choir members. 941.365.2846 | firstsarasota.org A Taste of Chanukah December 6 Sarasota Fairgrounds 1:00 pm. Featuring the Moshav Band, kosher food from area restaurants, and a kids corner with inflatables, petting zoo, pony rides and much more. Tickets: $3 | 941.925.0770 | atasteofchanukah.com 16th Annual Ditchfield Family Singers Christmas Show December 8 2:00 pm & 7:00 pm. A favorite Christmas tradition at the Sarasota Opera House. Tickets: $15 - $45 | 941.923.2013 | ditchfieldfamilysingers.com Dickens at the Crosley December 8 – 20 Powel Crosley Estate 2:00 pm. and 7:30 pm.

Guests will immerse themselves in the historic glamour of the estate as they move from room to room to experience a festive, family evening of theater, traditional carols and tales. Tickets: $15 - $25 | 941.722.3244 | bradentongulfislands.com/crosley-estate/ Women of Ireland ~ Celtic Angels’ Christmas December 10 Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall 8:00 pm. This family show is a holiday celebration of Christmas in Ireland presented in an inimitable fashion by some of Ireland’s finest female performers. Tickets: $40 - $55 | 941.953.3368 | vanwezel.org 7th Annual Gingerbread House Festival December 11 – 13 Westfield Sarasota Square Mall. Over 150 Gingerbread Houses created by school kids, youth groups, local businesses, and organizations. Benefits the CYD. Admission: $1 | 941.922.5126 | cydonline.org Holidays Around The Ranch December 11 Main Street at Lakewood Ranch 6:00 pm. Watch the lighting of the tree, work on crafts in Santa’s workshop, ice skate on an acrylic ice rink, and welcome Santa’s arrival. lakewoodranch.com/mainstreet

Annual Atomic Holiday Bazaar December 12 – 13 Sarasota Municipal Auditorium. Crafts and holiday gifts from independent crafters. atomicholidaybazaar.com.

The Pops Orchestra “A Christmas Carol” The Concert December 12 7:30 pm & December 13 2:00 pm. Enjoy the timeless story of Ebenezer Scrooge through glorious and memorable new songs in this holiday classic with musical styles ranging from classical and Broadway, to blues and gospel. Tickets: $30 | 941.752.5252 | thepopsorchestra.org Tim Zimmerman & The King’s Brass December 12 Venice Presbyterian Church 3:00 & 7:00 pm. The Brass performs Christmas sounds with three trumpets, three trombones, a tuba, keyboards, and percussion. Tickets: $15 - $20 | 941.488.5525 | venicecommunityconcerts.com 30th Annual Christmas Boat Parade of Lights on Sarasota Bay December 12 6:00 pm. Boaters string lights and decorate their power and sailboats with holiday themes amazing spectators young and old. Best areas for viewing are Marina Jack Restaurant, Bay front Park, City Island and Centennial Park. sarasotachristmasboatparade.com The 24th Annual Christmas Concert and Community Carol Sing December 13 First United Methodist Church, 104 S. Pineapple Ave, downtown Sarasota 7:00 pm. The First Church Singers present “Glad Tidings We Bring!” with brass, organ, & percussion.

Parking available in Zenith garage. Free will offering. firstsrq.com Snow Fest Sarasota December 18 – 20 Payne Park 12:00 pm. Daily snowfall with giant snow slides, pony rides, pictures with Santa, snowman building, a giant snow globe, live shows, candy cane hula hoopers, jelly bean jugglers, kids amusement area, DJ Grinch, vendors and much more. snowfestsarasota.com Sarasota Ballet: John Ringling’s Circus Nutcracker December 18 7:30 pm. December 19 2:00 & 7:30 pm. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Follow Clara’s dream as she runs away with the circus in this production of Sarasota’s own The Nutcracker by international choreographer Matthew Hart & award-winning designer Peter Docherty. Tickets: $35 - $105 | 941.359.0099 x101 | SarasotaBallet.org Selby Lights in Bloom December 18 – 23, 26 – 30 Selby Gardens 6:00 pm. Stroll through

November 2015

|

SCENE

91

the magical gardens and explore the massive Tunnel of Lights, which transports you from the tropics into the North Pole, along with favorites such as the Radiant Rainforest. Live holiday music, Santa, and games for the entire family. Tickets: $7.50 - $25 | 941.366.5731 | selby.org

Family Law Attorney

Angela D. Flaherty Practicing in every aspect of

A Christmas Carol December 23 Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall 7:00 pm. This celebrated version of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol brings the fable of redemption to life on a magical set with a full array of traditional Christmas carols woven into the classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge. 941.955.7676 | vanwezel.org

Family Law within the Sarasota, Manatee and Venice Circuit since 1997 including divorce, paternity, all child-related matters, distribution of assets and debts, spousal and child support and domestic violence.

Sailor Circus Holiday Show December 26 – 29 Sailor Circus Arena.

America’s longest running youth circus presents an enchanting holiday experience for all ages. 941.355.9805 | circusarts.org

434 South Washington Boulevard Sarasota, FL 34236 941-706-2860

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker December 28 Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall 3:00 pm & 7:00 pm. Holiday performance for families with magical toys, falling snow, growing Christmas trees, and astounding ballet moves. 941.955.7676 | vanwezel.org

angela@srqfamilylaw.com

5th Annual New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Bay December 31 Sarasota Bayfront midnight fireworks. Marina Jack reservations 941.365.4232 | suncoastcharitiesforchildren.org

Your custom storage specialists.

Life is complicated.

Let Affordable Closets make life easier at prices below the rest.

Closets

Home Offices

Wall Beds

Pantries

Laundry Room

Utility Room

Garage Cabinets

941.926.7674 | AffordableClosetsInc.com

Locally Owned & Operated | Professional Installation | Lifetime Warranty

92

SCENE

|

November 2015

Downtown Bradenton’s New Year’s Eve Celebration December 31 Old Main Street, Bradenton 2:00 pm. Live music, street vendors and more. Free admission.

Sarasota’s Pineapple Drop New Year’s Eve Street Party December 31 Downtown Sarasota 3:00 pm. Family friendly carnival during the day with rides for adults and kids. Live entertainment and street vendors into the night with the pineapple drop at midnight to ring in 2016. Free admission | sarasotanewyearsparty.com

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

BEFORE YOU DRIVE INTO THE DEALER TO TRADE IN YOUR CAR, CALL THE EXPERTS AT MR. MOBILE QUOTE AND LEARN WHAT YOUR CAR IS REALLY WORTH. Our highly experienced experts come to your home or office. It’s quick & easy and best of all, there’s no cost or obligation.

Don’t leave money on the table. CALL THE EXPERTS AT MR. MOBILE QUOTE TODAY.

40+ years of automotive experience | All makes & models

941.921.6414

Scenes from an Interview

Ben Vereen

By Gus Mollasis | Photos by Renee McVety

“Triple threat” is a show biz term used to describe someone’s ability to sing, dance and act. It’s a phrase that is often overused. But when it comes to describing the talent of Ben Vereen, it seems like an understatement. An actor, dancer and singer extraordinaire, he has graced stage and screen for decades with his immense gifts and winning smile. From Broadway to the big screen, the lights have always reflected the joy he receives in creating every role he has ever performed including that of Chicken George in the landmark TV series, Alex Haley’s Roots, for which he was honored with one of his three Emmy nominations. In 1973 he won both the Tony Award (Best Actor in a Musical) and a Drama Desk Award for his role in Pippin. Despite his numerous awards, nominations and accolades, he is simply a man doing exactly what he should be doing with his life – entertaining the masses in whatever medium he happens to plant the roots of his triple threat feet in. Recently I sat down with him at the Venice Theatre where he is set to direct his version of the musical Hair nearly 50 years after he performed in the iconic musical on Broadway. As I settled in for our talk, a humble child-like smile was evident peering out from underneath his ball cap emblazoned with the words “Spiritual Enforcer”. The scene was set and as the curtain was about to be lifted on this legendary artist, I couldn’t wait to learn from all his masterful steps and look at the many magnificent scenes from an interview of his life.

How’s the show going?

It’s going to be good. Yeah, it’s going well. It’s a process.

(Smiles) It is work, but it pays off.

Where were you born?

I was born in Dade County, Florida, in Miami. But I grew up in Bedford Stuyvesant, Brooklyn.

Paint me a picture of your childhood.

I don’t really remember. I don’t know why. But I sometimes struggle with that. There are no pictures of me as a baby. But that’s another story. My childhood memories are Brooklyn. Coney Island. Going with my mother to work as a garment presser. Hanging in the streets of Brooklyn. The Star Time Dance Studio and churches. Herkimer Street and 1956 cars coming by and riding on the bumpers. My skates.

My mother making me a scooter out of crate boxes. Things like that. Birthday parties at my house. My childhood was in churches and in dance studios. But really I learned to dance more in the streets. In churches I sang with a quartet group called the Sensational Twilights’ of Brooklyn until I ended

94

SCENE

|

November 2015

up in the High School of Performing Arts, where my life sort of made a big shift.

What was your first inkling you had some talent in the performing arts?

I never looked at it as talent. I looked at it as something to do. People label it as talent, but it was something I loved.

We label things. We may say that’s talent or that’s not talent, but if you love something, and you don’t think about it, it just goes through you and you enjoy doing it.

You attended the High School of Performing Arts where you received influence from many legends such as Martha Graham, George Balanchine and Jerome Robbins. Tell us about that.

They didn’t work with me. They were the adjudicators who allowed you to come into the school. I didn’t know who a Martha Graham, a Jerome Robbins or George Balanchine was. When I got into the school, I saw this photograph of this black man dancing in the air and it was Arthur Mitchell, who was part of the American Ballet Company

and who was working with George Balanchine. Jerome Robbins, I became aware of him when I actually did a piece in Arthur Mitchell’s Company. I didn’t meet Martha Graham until I started running around after Pippin with Halston, Liza Minnelli and Andy Warhol in New York during a wonderful time in the 60s and 70s.

Tell me about your off Broadway debut so many years ago in The Prodigal Son and how are you different and similar to the young Ben Vereen.

To me there was no off Broadway or on Broadway. It was just work. In high school there was a drama teacher who wasn’t my teacher but she kept noticing me. Her name was Vinnette Carroll and she wrote Your Arms are Too Short to Box with God amongst other Broadway works. She saw me in my senior production and she asked me to do The Prodigal Son. It played at the Greenwich Mews Theatre, off Broadway, and was written by Langston Hughes who later became a good friend and the godfather of my child. He took me to Harlem for the first time, gave me some of his books and talked about the Harlem Renaissance.

When you think of Langston Hughes, what’s the first thing that comes to your mind?

Legacy. Heritage. He was one of the voices of the period of time of the reconstruction for African Americans. For America, he was a voice saying the things that the soul was saying.

You worked first with Bob Fosse and then later with Sammy Davis, Jr. on Sweet Charity. Tell me about the first thing that comes to your mind when you recall

those experiences.

(Smiles) Well, once again it was employment. It was a job. It’s always about the gig. I got a job. I was fortunate to work with Bob Fosse. Bob hired me. Once again, I had never been to a Broadway show. Again, I didn’t really look at it as Broadway or off Broadway; I looked at it as working.

So I went to the audition and he asked me if I had seen Sweet Charity, which I hadn’t. I told him I had not seen any Broadway shows and he (Mr. Fosse) gave me tickets to my first Broadway show, Sweet Charity. I saw Gwen Verdon, John McMartin and Thelma Oliver on stage, bigger than life and with a full orchestra. My first Broadway show. (Smiles) Is that when you got the theater bug?

I don’t know if it was bug. It’s been a passion. I’ve always had a passion to perform and to serve our craft. It was amazing watching the vista of opportunities and possibilities upon that stage.

You were cast in the film Sweet Charity opposite Sammy Davis, Jr. who played an incredible role in your life.

Tell me about what he meant to you.

I went on the road with Chita Rivera and then got cast in the film with Shirley MacLaine and that’s where I met Sammy. During the time when I was coming up, Sammy was the only iconic black figure who was on TV except for Nat King Cole. Every now and then you’d see Ella Fitzgerald with Frank Sinatra or Bing Crosby on a variety show. In the beginning, Sammy was on the Ed Sullivan Show. Sammy would sing, dance, act and everybody would talk about Sammy. I didn’t see him in nightclubs and the only close November 2015

|

SCENE

95

contact I had with him was watching him on TV. One day when I was a kid on the streets of Brooklyn, Floyd Patterson had just won the heavyweight championship and they had a parade for him. Sammy was a part of the parade. I saw the parade and I waved at him. Next thing I knew, Sammy was doing a TV show. His name kept coming along. Finally he’s on the set of Sweet Charity, and I was watching him first hand. It was there that he asked me to join his company of Golden Boy. He asked me to be his understudy, but he actually already had an understudy named Lonnie Sattin, so Sammy asked me to be his second understudy. He was a warm friend, a leader and a great artist.

Sammy doesn’t seem to get the credit for what he did during the Civil Rights movement.

No, and he should. He was in the marches in Selma. He did the grunt work. When Dr. Martin Luther King was killed, we were doing Golden Boy and it was Sammy who went on TV and to every gang in Chicago and kept down the peace.

Nobody knows about that. They would curse him out and call him all sorts of names like “sell out”, but he still turned around and gave money to all these organizations as long as they kept the peace. We went to London and Bobby Kennedy was assassinated. He stood in every pulpit in every place and would say, “This is America. I’m an American. We have our problems but you don’t have the right to talk about us.”

I remember as a kid watching with my family your portrayal of Chicken George in Roots. It taught us a lot about both black history and American history in what was a teachable moment. What does that project mean to you after all these years regarding its place not only in TV history, but more importantly American history?

My want is that we recognize people of Juffure where

96

SCENE

|

November 2015

Kunta Kinte came from. What it meant for me at the time was that I had really not ventured into the African American experience because we were not taught that in schools.

There was a paragraph that said, “You were a slave and Lincoln freed you.” Unless you went to college and went to black studies you were not unaware of my story. My story like the American Indian story was not told. Alex Haley, God bless him, had gone back to Gambia and he knew about this story that was told to him by his family about a guy named Kunta Kinte. He shared that story with the world and I wanted to be a part of it. I am thankful for the recognition the piece has gotten, and they’re talking about doing Roots II now. My want is that some of the proceeds go to the people of Juffure. I was just in Gambia and I went to Juffure and it broke my heart. They have a little museum there and it seems almost impoverished. The last time they said someone did something was when Alex Haley went there and put up lights. There is an island that is about two or three miles out in the water that used to be called James Island, which is where the cell was that they kept the Mandingo warriors until the ships came. They called it the door of no return. The Portuguese, the French, the Spaniards, and the English would hold them there until the ships came and took them away. They were stuffed in this little room. Chaz Guest (the artist) and I stood there and wept upon hearing this.

Chaz went to the President of Gambia and said, “You’ve got to change the name of that island. It’s not James Island.

It’s Kunta Kinte Island.” And I noticed that the only people coming to Juffure to visit the makeshift museum there were white European brothers and sisters. And it broke my heart.

You got to educate. I know this from my Jewish brothers and sisters who make a pilgrimage to the Wailing Wall, and the Muslim brothers and sisters who make a pilgrimage to Mecca. Yet we don’t make or talk about a pilgrimage to Juffure to

The Silver Soiree …

A Quarter Century of Caring Saturday, November 14, 2015, 6:30pm @ Michael’s on East Cocktail Reception & Silent Auction at 6:30 p.m.

Dinner, Live Auction & Tribute Program at 7:30 p.m.

Musical Entertainment by “Double Vision • Black Tie Optional

Presenting Sponsor: Betty Schoenbaum

Sterling Sponsor: Sam Shapiro Diamond Sponsors: Gerri Aaron & Marvin Albert Grossman, Roth & Partridge

To Purchase Tickets or Sponsorship

Call: 941-365-4545 or Visit: gs-humanservices.org

ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE

DIRECTOR’S TAKE

Luncheon

TIMES OF CHANGE

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2015 | 10:30AMAM Asolo Repertory Theatre 5555 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34243

A lunch and stimulating conversation with Asolo Rep’s directors, exploring the theme of the 2015/16 season, Times of Change.

LEAD SPONSOR

Tickets & Info: $75/person SpecialEvents@asolo.org 941.351.9010 ext. 4702 MEDIA SPONSOR

ASOLOREP.ORG/DIRECTORSTAKELUNCH

help the people of Juffure. My want is that part of any proceeds they receive in recognition be returned to Juffure and we say thank you. I am interested in doing something for the good of the people there and help bring awareness to this plight. I mean, I had to reach into my pocket and give the last descendent of Kunta Kinte, I think her name was Binta, some money. When I was there and the tourist boat came over to visit the island, there were only two or three white tourists who got off the boat. They came to look at this little makeshift museum with a little slave ship and some artifacts.

To think this is where they found the “roots” that Alex Haley wrote about and the place where Kunta Kinte started - it is a place we can relate to. My dream would be that people recognize it and help restore it as a place where people could come and take in the history, while helping the people of Juffure. We’re doing something along those same lines with our cast of Hair. We’re talking about donating some proceeds to help a refugee family from Syria.

Regarding race relations, have things gotten better in our country?

They’re not where they were in the 1800s. We don’t have black people hanging on poles. Yes, we’ve made progress. We take two steps forward and we take three steps back. I cannot say that we have not made progress, but the undertow is still there. We haven’t cut the cancer out completely. As long as people are allowed to put the consciousness of hatred into other people or about another people, this will continue to happen. Some child, who probably was raised by people with prejudicial attitudes, walks into a church, shoots people, and he says his God told him to do this. God has nothing to do with prejudice. That is man’s nonsense. God is love. My want is that we heal through the acceptance of compassion and love on this planet.

Film, theater and TV can shed light on important issues.

Recently your role in the film Time Out of Mind earned you high praise and was one of those teachable moments that shined the light on the plight of the homeless. What did that film teach you?

I have never been in the skin of the homeless. I have sympathy and a fear that one day it may be me. My want is to strengthen those who are empowered to make a difference so that if that ever happens to me, my neighbor, my family, friends or anybody, that we are able to have a system in place to help them. There are also mental problems when dealing with the homeless, and we need to have services available to help them so they don’t fall through the cracks. Utah has a program in which they put the homeless in homes and give them the services they need so that they can become a viable part of society. It gives them back their dignity and helps families. It seems to be working. They have saved money and they are becoming less of a burden. This is being done by a philanthropist who had an idea and made it work.

98

SCENE

|

November 2015

At this year’s Sarasota Film Festival, I remember you saying that both you and Richard Gere felt invisible when you portrayed these homeless men.

Richard says it beautifully and I think he should win an Oscar for this performance. He was brilliant. Richard said, “People think it’s like a black hole and they feel they’ll get sucked into it.” We were there and I was panhandling. I was in character. While I’m doing the piece, I am in character for 24/7. I’m in that head. I walked the streets and sat in the streets as I watched people go by and react to me as if I was invisible. Some people, not all people, have the compassion and want to do something, so they give you money.

They say, “Here man, here’s some food.”

How did it make you feel to be invisible?

It hurt. It really hurt, especially being who I am. Now step outside the character. Me as Ben Vereen or Richard as Richard Gere. And this is happening and this is our public. Oh, you only want to see me when I am in lights. But when I’m not in lights, I’m an inconvenience. And I think that’s how the whole plight of the homeless are viewed in most cities, as an inconvenience. Not all people. But most people don’t know what to do, because their government is not stepping up and saying this is what we do. We need to follow the example of Utah.

What has this business taught you about life?

Don’t take it serious. (Laughs heartily) Bob Fosse would say, “Life is a bowl of cherries,” and I would say to him, “Don’t forget to spit out the pits.”

Who is someone you would like to work with?

The list is so long. (Pauses and smiles) Shirley MacLaine.

Of course James Earl Jones and of course Denzel Washington. Phylicia Rashad. The list goes on and on.

If you had one final part to play what would it be?

(Long Pause) There are so many. I guess it would be Cyrano de Bergerac, because he was a man who had it all and sacrificed it all.

You are a spiritual man as evidenced by your self-proclaimed title of “Spiritual Enforcer”, which you literally wear on your hat and sleeve. What does your faith or spirituality mean to you?

It’s all spiritual. This journey is spiritual for me. Some people call it religion. I call it spiritual. The root of all spiritual religions is spirit. It’s the consciousness of man that has put labels on it and separated us from the true core of what it’s all about. That’s my opinion. It’s all about the spirit. We call it various names. Allah. God. Jesus. Elohim. Buddha, but it is all one vibration. It’s called the spirit of. I wear the “spiritual enforcer” because the spiritual enforcer reminds people that we have to force love upon the planet now. I’m

doing that through the arts. I’m forcing love through the arts. I have an organization called WTA, Wellness Through the Arts. We go to schools and we have kids who write an essay on living with obesity, Diabetes, low self esteem and bullying. They do a two-page essay or two minute video and can win a $500 award toward their education. This year we will increase that as we go on. We put them with a dramaturg and a composer and they make a ten minute story and musical. We put it on at the Ben Vereen Awards in San Diego and in Tucson.

How do you choose what causes to support?

There are so many worthy causes. We have a big problem today. I’m a Diabetic. The one thing I’ve learned is that with proper healthcare you can take care of it and don’t have to suffer. You can have the opportunity for a better life through education. So I try to make the kids the heroes in their stories by encouraging them to do the things that lead to good health. A person living with Diabetes knows they have to eat the proper foods and exercise. So I get more kids exercising and eating proper foods so we will have a healthier society. If I can get kids talking about the fact that that they have low self-esteem or are being bullied, maybe we can stop the bullying guys and have more of an army of guys against it rather than for it. Maybe if we help that kid with low self-esteem build himself up, we’ll find inside the core of their heart our next leader. I think that because we have cut the arts in our schools, we are dealing with a lot of the things that are going on today. There is a vacuum of time. The kids don’t know where to put it, so they put it in destructive actions as opposed to creative actions. If we give them the creative outlet, then they are more likely to build toward something good.

What has your spirit taught you about dealing with the tough times we all go through?

I pray daily. I meditate. I chant. I do whatever is necessary for me to stay in a higher realm of consciousness. I do not attest to any particular religion because they are all one to me. I believe there are many trails to get to the top of the mountain, but there is only one mountaintop, so let’s all get to the top of the mountain without hurting each other.

And stop this, “My God is better than your God. My God is this, My God is that.” God doesn’t have anything to do with that. God is God or God is Goddess – whatever you want to call the divinity you believe in. My desire is to build a safe place where kids could come in and vent and just let them feel their inner spiritualty blossom and glow through them.

During the 1960s you learned you were adopted, and in recent years, you have sought your roots. How fulfilling or traumatic was finding out where your story started?

First of all. When you find out that you’re not who you think, it’s shattering. But because of the woman who loved

Finish the following sentences: I am good actor because...

My public accepts me.

I am good singer because…

My song is from my heart and my public wants to hear it.

I am good dancer because...

I dance through life, and because my public allows me to.

My best quality as a person is my ability to….

Smile, laugh and make others laugh and hopefully help people feel good.

Something I need to work on is….

Me every day. I’ve got to keep working on me towards glory on the inner being of my spirit.

To me theater is….

Life. An example of life. A reflection of life.

A great play should….

Make you feel wonderful and provoke you.

me and raised me, my mother Pauline, I didn’t go looking while she was alive. She got Alzheimer’s and it was so traumatic for her. It devastated her. Shortly after she showed me a picture of my mother she developed Alzheimer’s. After she transitioned, I went seeking. My youngest daughter reminded me that she would have children one day and they will want to know their heritage. So I went looking and found my family in Laurinburg, North Carolina. The people of Laurinburg were so magnificent because they found out that Chicken George was looking for his roots. The entire city, the mayor and everyone came out and went looking.

And I found my relatives there. I found that my grandfather started the oldest church, St. Johns, which is still there. I discovered my aunts and went to my first family reunion in Connecticut. I found out that my mother had lived an hour from me my whole life. I discovered my sister, Gloria, and my brother, Jimmy, and a whole host of cousins and nephews, and people I had never had in my life before. It’s been wonderful. As a matter of fact I’m going to see my sister this Saturday. We stay close. I have another brother in Arizona.

I have all these people in my life now that I just found and it’s wonderful. As a matter of fact, I’m doing a piece for Broadway next year called “From Brooklyn to Broadway.”

A little bit of this story will be in there.

November 2015

|

SCENE

99

You performed in Hair on Broadway and now you are directing it at Venice Theatre. Reflect on this history and what do you hope people take away from this production?

I opened it at the Aquarius Theater in LA and I just got back from doing Golden Boy in London and there was an audition at the Biltmore Theater. A friend of my second wife told me they were looking for a black hippie and that I should try out for Hair.

So I went down and tried out and met Tom O’Horgan who was a genius and who settled in Venice, FL before passing a few years back. Tom O’Horgan is responsible for so much change in American theater that we don’t give him credit for and he’s the only director to have four hit shows on Broadway at the same time - Inner City Mother Goose, Lenny, Hair and Jesus Christ Superstar.

What attracted you to work with Venice Theatre and this production of Hair?

I came to the Venice Theatre a few years ago to do a concert and then they asked me to come back and teach a master class at the International Theater Festival. They do such wonderful things at this theater. I was just blown away. The professionalism. It’s laid back. And the people are wonderful and they LOVE the theater. They are so supportive and so wonderfully warm here. I was toying around with the idea of doing Hair with Michael Butler in LA, so I was sitting in the green room and Murry Chase looked at me and said, “I heard you want to do Hair.” So I told him my concept and he said, “Let’s do it.” I said, “Are you serious?” He said, “Yeah, let’s do it.”

So that’s why I’m here. And I want to thank them for the opportunity to do something that’s really out of the box for them, because this production is going to be quite different and even edgier and informative. I hope people ask these two questions after seeing it. “What have we done?”

“What can we do?” I hope those questions are answered after they’ve seen the performance.

What are some of your goals for this production?

My want is that I’m claiming, if we do our job correctly, I have backers and buyers coming down to look at the show, then perhaps the show will be able to be taken on the road and performed for colleges as “From Venice, Hair.” It’s my way of giving a little love back to Venice because they have been so kind and supportive to me. They deserve it.

What is your mantra?

Spiritual enforcer – enforce the spirit within me for the good through humility.

What is your advice to those pursuing a career in the arts whether it is stage, screen or TV? Love yourself and you can do anything. Love yourself whether you’re in the theater, a plumber, an engineer or a doctor – love yourself. The arts are a wonderful way to open up that

100

SCENE

|

November 2015

love. Because once you have been touched by the arts, you have a creative outlook on your life. In the beginning God created… not in the beginning God manufactured. (Smiles) Many years from now how do you want to be remembered at the end of your life’s play?

I don’t know. I guess that I came this way and I hope I made a difference and touched someone’s life for the better.

photo: Glenn Gardner

photo: Glenn Gardner

Save Save Land.

Forever.

You You cancan helphelpprotect protectourourmost mostimportant importantnatural naturalplaces. places. to Conservation Foundation GulfCoast Coasttoday today GiveGive to Conservation Foundation ofof thetheGulf impact forever.

(941) 918-2100. and and impact forever.

CallCall (941) 918-2100.

conservationfoundation.com conservationfoundation.com

EDUCATION

Sarasota Orchestra

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

When people talk about our area being rich in arts and culture, high on the short list of must-do things is enjoying a concert by the Sarasota Orchestra, an 80-member group that’s been in existence for nearly 70 years (the oldest continuing orchestra in Florida!) and whose concerts are often the hot ticket in town.

102

SCENE

|

The Sarasota Orchestra is truly an arts lead-

Director of Education, Alyson Rozier, says

er in our community not just because of their dy-

that the 30-week Youth Orchestra Program,

namic 100+ classical, pops, and family concerts

which follows the school calendar from Sep-

each year, but because their mission includes

tember through April, is designed to enhance

first-class music education. Their most notewor-

and build upon the music education happen-

thy education program is the Youth Orchestra

ing in the schools, not replace it. “We want to

Program, which has the philosophy of involving

give these students a chance to do something a

all interested children from third grade through

little different,” she explains, “perhaps a larger

high school in symphonic and classical mu-

ensemble or a little more challenging then what

sic, both as audience members and musicians.

they get in school. Plus they get to be with other

“Once we reach them,” their website says, “they

students on a weekly basis who share their same

are our most receptive participants. The Orches-

level of passion for music. All of these kids love

tra is committed to transforming the classical

to practice, prepare, and perform.”

music experience into a youthful medium where

More than 300 students play in the Youth

children and teens don’t replace their pop music

Orchestra’s seven different ensembles which

with Mozart, but add him to their playlists.”

range from a group with players who have little

November 2015

experience with instruments all the way up to the top group, which plays the same symphonic music as the Sarasota Orchestra. “These aren’t arrangements or simplified versions – it’s the same music,” says Rozier of that top-tier group, the Youth Philharmonic that is conducted by Robert Lambert.

There’s also the 3-week summer camp in July. Like the Youth Orchestra, about 300 students participate in the camp each year. Many are trying instruments for the first time, hoping to decide if signing up for a school music program makes sense for them or not. The class sizes are small, and students have daily rehearsals in a large ensemble along with a technique class and another skill-building class. “There’s no audition for summer camp,” says Rozier. “It’s firstcome, first-serve, so everyone with an interest in music is welcome.”

Rozier admits, “We’re not looking to make the next great soloist or musician. If that happens, great! But if not, will they have a love of music? Will it make them better students and better people? Will they encourage their own children to participate in music or be concertgoers? That’s what we are working for.” And she’s quick to point out how a recent article she read revealed that the majority of those accepted into medical school had studied music. That shouldn’t come as a surprise since research indicates that a musician’s brain works differently than that of a non-musician. “There’s some good neuroscience that children involved in music have larger growth of neural activity than people not in music training. When you’re a musician and you’re playing an instrument, you have to be using more of your brain,” explains Dr. Eric

of music education as much as we do.”

Rasmussen, chair of the Early Childhood Music

Sarasota is home to nearly four times as

Department at the Peabody Preparatory of The

many performing artists as any other part of

Johns Hopkins University.

Florida. With the help of an education-focused

Because the Orchestra believes that music

organization like the Sarasota Orchestra, per-

should matter to everyone, no child is turned

haps that number will reach five times as many

away because of money. Those who can’t afford

before long!

tuition or private lessons? There are scholarships

For more information about Sarasota Or-

and help available, notes Rozier. “We’re fortu-

chestra, please visit www.sarasotaorchestra.com

nate to have donors who believe in the benefits

or call (941) 953-3434.

November 2015

|

SCENE

103

C o n S e r vat i o n F o u n d at i o n o F t h e G u l F C o a S t a n d a S o l o r e p e rt o ry t h e at r e preSent

Twelfth Night

S h a k e S p e a r e at B ay p r e S e r v e

This special family presentation, in a superb outdoor setting at Bay Preserve, will inspire your love of nature and the arts.

Sunday, november 22 3:30 pm 400 palmetto ave osprey

Free Seating is limited reservations required: (941) 918-2100

www.conservationfoundation.com

&

Discover The Romance And Tragedy Of This Timeless Ballet

Ashton’s Masterpiece Created Especially For The Legendary Fonteyn And Nureyev

MACMILLAN, WRIGHT & ASHTON

Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s Concerto Sir Peter Wright’s Summertide Sir Frederick Ashton’s Marguerite and Armand Accompanied by the Sarasota Orchestra

20 - 21 NOVEMBER 2015

SARASOTA OPERA HOUSE

Photography Frank Atura

Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s Concerto Choreographed by Sir Kenneth MacMillan

The First American Company To Bring The Breathtaking Marguerite and Armand To The Stage

The Sarasota Ballet Box Office

www.SarasotaBallet.org | 941 . 359 . 0099 Production Media Sponsor

Behind the Scene

Society Maven Debbi Benedict Gives the Latest Scoop Since it is November, I thought I would list the four things I am most thankful for in our social world, and no eye rolling please, like there would be if I asked my family what they were most thankful for when we were all seated around the Thanksgiving dinner table. First of all, I’m thankful that Sarasota actually has a social season. I love that I live in a town where I have a reason to buy luncheon suits, cocktail dresses, and ball gowns, because the whole reason for me to go to an event is to play dress-up – and oh yes, of course, to support all of the good causes! Secondly, I’m thankful for the stellar special event industry we have here – all the caterers, the florists, the lighting and sound techs, the tent people, the invitation printers, and not to mention all the media who cover these happenings.

We have some of the industry’s top folks living right here. Thirdly, what would we do without all the nonprofit staffers and volunteers who create and produce these events for our enjoyment? They work days and days for a two to three hour event. And finally, the attendees who support the events by being sponsors, patrons, and ticket holders. Without you, there wouldn’t be a social season and then what would I write about?

What could be better than spending an afternoon feeling the warm Gulf breezes on your face, mingling with amazing artists, and eating Michael’s On East lobsters? Nothing really, that’s why you need to get yourself to the Hermitage Artist Retreat’s Artful Lobster – Feast on the Beach. You say that you don’t want to drive all the way to Manasota Key? No worries! Event chairs, and one of my favorite couples, Tom and Sherry Koski, tell me they are offering a deluxe party bus to take guests from Sarasota down to the Hermitage – problem solved! An island vibe will greet you with a bit of calypso music and soothing pastel decorations. As always, the highlight of the event is a performance by a Hermitage Fellow. This year it is Kamala Sankaram, who created Miranda, a steampunk murder mystery, which was the winner of the New York Innovative Theatre Award for Outstanding Production of a musical and her second opera, Thumbprint, premiered in the 2014 PROTOTYPE Festival. How’s that for being exposed to great contemporary art in a casual setting? A live auction, with Michael November 2015

|

SCENE

105

Klauber as auctioneer, will be held, along with a top-notch silent auction. Oh, and don’t forget, there will be a paddle raise for an important Hermitage project. Lead sponsor is Gulf Coast Community Foundation, followed by Tom and Sherry Koski, Dale and Steve Adler, Caroline and Dyck Andrus, Larry and Carol White Bold, Kate and Don Harris, Dolly Vinton, Alexandra Jupin and John Bean.

Did you get your ticket yet for the Southwest FL Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professional’s National Philanthropy Day Luncheon? I hope so because this huge community event is always a sell-out with a wait list and you do not want to miss attending. Anyone who is anybody in this town will be there, so you should be too. Held at Michael’s On East and chaired by Jennifer Vigne, who is the new Executive Director of the Education Foundation, this annual event honors philanthropists and volunteers from Sarasota and Manatee Counties. The emcee for the day is Bob Carter and his Bob Carter Companies, along with Mote Marine Laboratory, are two of the top sponsors, followed by Artefact Design, The Mosaic Company, Betty Schoenbaum, and USF Sarasota Manatee, among many others. The winners are top-secret until the luncheon. Nominees for Outstanding Individual Philanthropist are: Dan and Debbie Dannheiser, Bob and Anne Essner, Dick Gross, Drs. Bob and Pat Gussin, Ernie Kretzmer, Arnold Simonsen, Eva Slane, the Swift Family, and William Yandow. Outstanding Fundraising Volunteer

Let us do the work at your next event. From formal affairs to small gatherings, Morton’s offers fullservice catering and bar with custom menus and top-notch service.

You can take the credit.

We won’t tell.

nominees are: Herman Frankel, Nola and Larry Hietbrink, Isabel Norton and Carolyn Johnson, and Dr. Laurey Stryker.

Other categories include Outstanding Corporate Partner and Outstanding Foundation/Civic Organization.

Last year’s New College Foundation’s Clambake was deemed successful financially and attendance-wise, but not so much in a few other areas. The good news is that the changes implemented last year have been changed back to the tried and true – yay! Back on board is Michael’s On East, the original caterer for the 36th annual granddaddy of all the local fall lobster events and the date has switched back to a weekday. Last year they tried a weekend date to accommodate the alumni weekend, which resulted in a larger event, but alienated some local longtime supporters. Keith and Linda Monda are the chairs and the Trinidudes will be the entertainment. Clambake has always felt like the start of fall for me. There is traditionally a bit of a nip in the air, as the tent is in the back of the Charles Ringling Mansion (College Hall) right on Sarasota Bay. It is a terrific mix of old and new Sarasota and a fabulous opportunity to chat with some of the extraordinary New

Historic Southside Village 1924 South Osprey Avenue Sarasota ∙ (941) 955-9856 MortonsMarket.com 106

SCENE

|

November 2015

College students. It truly is one of Sarasota’s legendary events.

I wonder what intriguing centerpiece idea Anne Folsom Smith will come up with this year at Sarasota Orchestra’s Season Opener Brunch – Magnificent Seven? In past years she and her decorating committee have come up with lamp shades and

jewelry boxes, among other things. All have been divine and so much fun to look at. The Michael’s On East brunch is such a delight to the senses. The sizzling of made to order omelets, the aroma of the sliced prime rib, and my favorite, the taste of the cheese blintzes drizzled with strawberry sauce, of which I could eat an entire plate piled high! Chairs are Jill and Scott Levine and Meg and Tom Ryan. John Miller and his jazz group, all familiar faces of the orchestra, along with a special surprise soloist, will entertain the crowd. The music is definitely toe-tapping and last year, guests even got up and did a few twirls on the dance floor.

They were pretty energetic for a Sunday afternoon! Title Sponsor is Gulf Coast Community Foundation and media sponsor is SCENE Magazine.

Three Sarasota stars of philanthropy will sparkle at the

BUYING OR

SELLING? It WOULD BE MY pleasure to assist you.

Denise Mei

REALTOR®

Pines Foundation’s Wit and Wisdom of Aging Luncheon at Michael’s On East, chaired by Jane Hunder and Marilyn Shuman. Honorary Chair is Betty Schoenbaum. The celebrities on the panel are philanthropist Gerri Aaron, who has been a benefactor to many organizations in town, along with being a sought after board member and event chair. Entrepreneur Flori Roberts, a pioneer in the cosmetics industry where she founded Flori Roberts, Inc. specializing in cosmetic products for women of color. She entered into the world of corrective cosmetics by developing Dermablend, and, later, Smart Cover Cosmetics.And actor, comedian, composer and musician, Dick Smothers, who is best known for being half of the musical comedy team the Smothers Brothers, with his older brother Tom. The Smothers Brothers have appeared on numerous television shows over the past three decades, including two shows of their own: The Smothers Brothers Show, a sitcom from 1965 to 1966; and The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour, a ground-breaking variety show in 1967. Emcee is ABC7 newsman Ray Collins. Platinum Sponsors are Synovus Bank and Marilyn Shuman, followed by Gold Sponsors Dr. and Mrs. James Hunder, Betty Schoenbaum, Sunset Chevrolet, Willis A. Smith Construction, Inc., and media

4288 Ocean Blvd #5D in Siesta Towers. Gulf views from every room in this split floor plan, coastal-chic getaway on Siesta Key! Beautifully updated condo featuring 2 master suites, tile floors, new hurricane doors and windows, updated kitchen with stainless steel appliances, granite counters and tile back splash. Walk to the beach, shops and restaurants in the village in minutes! Siesta Towers features beautiful community amenities including two newly constructed fishing piers, a heated pool with spa, fitness center and modern community room with full chef’s kitchen. Nothing to do but move in! Wonderful value for an updated condo with gulf views on Siesta Key!

sponsor, SCENE Magazine.

Do you like beach events? Children First is having two fab events on the beach at Sharky’s on the Pier in Venice just days apart. Start off your beach adventure with the Flip Flops and Fashion Luncheon chaired by Andree Keebaugh, Debbie LaPinska, Jackie Rolfes, and Emily Walsh, with fashions from L.Boutique, Sun Bug, and J. McLaughlin. This is one event where you are encouraged NOT to wear high heels, because if you do, you will just sink in that luscious sugar sand. Sponsors are Gulf Coast Community Foundation, Jones Family Foundation, Macrae Family Foundation, PGT Industries, PNC Foundation, and Sharky’s. The second Children First event on the Sharky’s beach is the Rockin’ Lobster, chaired by Sally and Bill Altman, Paula

941.685.3198

2014 Master’s Award Recipient

Murray, Renee Phinney, Camilla and Erik Popham, and Mindy and November 2015

|

SCENE

107

Wayne Rollins. The tent’s interior goes from the vibrant pink, purple, and orange colors, accented with white orchids of the luncheon, to the rustic beach chic of the lobster boil, with teal and rust-red colors, along with mason jars, distressed wood, and burlap adding rustic elements to the tables. Guests can dance the night away

Taste | Snack | Relax • 250+ Wines & 70+ Beers from Around the World • A Wine Bar with 20 Wines Ready to Purchase by the Glass

with DJ Jonathan Cortez or enjoy the

You Can’t Beat Local.

relaxed atmosphere lounging in chairs in the sand surrounding a fire pit and roasting marshmallows. When was the last time you did that at an event? The

• Wines are Organized by Taste Categories & Price Point Making it Easy to Find What You Want

From care, to

night is completed by a floating lantern

comfort, to trust,

sendoff lighting up the sky. Top sponsors

• Artisanal Cheeses & Gourmet Food Available

your experience

• A Quaint & Cozy Atmosphere for Parties

will be unmatched.

• Wine Gifts & Gift Baskets Available

Hours: Monday 11am to 5pm | Tuesday – Friday 11am to 9pm | Saturday 11am-5pm

8225 Natures Way, Unit 111 | Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941-306-5804 | cheers-to-wine.com

are Brock and Julie Leach, followed by all the above sponsors.

Community superstar, Veronica Brady, will receive the Civic Achievement Award at the American Jewish Committee’s (AJC) awards dinner at Michael’s On East. This celebrated award is given to individuals whose contributions have helped to uplift the shared life of our community and Veronica has certainly done that.

AJC Regional Director, Brian Lipton told me that Veronica has responded to the immediate needs of our community by serving on many local boards including Junior League of Sarasota (as president), Leadership

Florida,

Sarasota

Family

YMCA, Mote Marine, Asolo Repertory Theatre, and AJC West Coast Florida, among others. She has been recognized for this work with numerous awards. After a 25-year career in banking, she joined Gulf Coast Community Foundation in 2010 as Senior Vice President for Philanthropy, where among other things, she has played a critical role in the development of a $1.2 million community-wide campaign

Make Your Celebrations A Little Sweeter

A timeless dinner table dessert, with a secret ingredient from Tennessee’s famous private reserve. Gigi’s Southern Comfort Pecan Pie is available in 9” and mini sizes. Place your order online now or at the bakery counter for your upcoming holiday parties.

SaraSota • 8435 Cooper Creek Blvd • Bradenton, FL 34201 (941) 355-4380 • GigisCupcakesUSA.com

108

SCENE

|

November 2015

against hunger and homelessness in our region, and has advanced science, technology, engineering and math in local schools through the STEMsmart program.

The event is chaired by Gerri Aaron, Barbara Brizdle, and Matt and Lisa Walsh.

SCENE Magazine is a media sponsor.

Those darling gals at the Junior

We love her too much to compromise. outhful Aging Home Health promises truly good days for your loved one. We are the area’s premier concierge private duty care agency, specializing in brain health, Alzheimer’s and dementia. To maintain the highest standards and personalized service, we limit the number of clients we serve, and you can interview and select your caregiver from our specially trained staff. Don’t settle for anything less.

Call Nicci Kobritz at 941-925-9532 for more information or visit youthfulaging.net License #299991326

Available for immediate delivery.

PAMARO SHOP F U R N I T U R E

Complimentary in-home design consultations.

For The New Look Of Florida

64 years of providing Sarasota with an ever-changing Florida look.

Pamaro North

7782 Tamiami Trail | 941.355.5619

Pamaro East

5465 University Parkway | 941.359.0025

thepamaroshop.com

Pamaro South

4586 S. Tamiami Trail | 941.923.3299

AS O LO R EP

Based on a Conception of JEROME ROBBINS Book by ARTHUR LAURENTS Music by LEONARD BERNSTEIN Lyrics by STEPHEN SONDHEIM Directed by JOEY MCKNEELY Choreography reproduced by JOEY MCKNEELY

Pressed for Time?

Celebrating 25 years of impeccable service!

CALL US NOW

for our FREE

pick up &

delivery service!

(941)275-4647 www.carlsoncleaners.com

2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS SARASOTA:

VENICE:

3115 SOUTHGATE CIRCLE

1435 EAST VENICE AVENUE

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

On Venice Avenue & Pinebrook Road in the Publix shopping center

artist surgeon.”

League of Sarasota are presenting their

“I was an before I was a

Lilly Luncheon at the Sarasota Yacht Club with fashions from whom else? Lilly Pulitzer! I do think that Junior League members alone could support the local Lilly store. I don’t think I ever see a League photo without at least one woman dressed

– Dr. Alissa Shulman

in Lilly. Chairs are Lilly lovers Liz Reuth and Ella Lewis. Liz told me that “Lilly Pulitzer created a tropical wonderland in the backyard of her Palm Beach home, affectionately called “the jungle.” This year attendees get to step into the Lilly’s Pink Jungle where the colors are bright, the fashions are hot and the bubbly keeps flowing! Decor with accents of fuchsia,

Body Sculpting • Breast Augmentation Liposuction • Tummy Tucks • Breast Lift Arm & Thigh Lifts • Arm & Thigh Lifd

tangerine and gold evoke tropical chic

Sovereign Plastic Surgery

with a playful punch. Upon arriving, guests will enjoy posing with the Lilly Jeep, then social hour begins with signature cocktails, photos with an exclusive Lilly print backdrop, silent auction items, and mingling with your fellow Lilly-clad

Alissa M. Shulman M.D., F.A.C.S. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon 941.366.LIPO (5476) • www.SovereignPS.com 1950 Arlington Street, Suite 112 • Sarasota, FL 34239

guests. Attendees will watch as a Lilly artist works her magic creating a one-of-akind work of art for the raffle. And believe me, most women do wear Lilly or at least bright colors. Sponsors include Sarah Macrae/Michael Saunders, Charlene Neal PUREStyle Interior Design, Sabadell Bank, Freeman Orthodontics, Nicole Sharpe/ Michael Saunders, and Yellow Strawberry Salon among others.

Edgardo J. Aponte, MD, FACOG Jorge E. Alvarez, MD, FACOG Jennifer R. McCullen, MD, FACOG M. Joanne Bevers, CNM Jill S. Miller, ARNP Therese E. Goode, PA-C

Down the Rabbit Hole is the Alice in Wonderland theme for Historic Spanish Point’s Party at the Point on the beguiling lawn of the White Cottage. A magical night is in store with thousands of white lights throughout the property including through the mangroves. It will truly be under the starry skies with no tent in sight. Let’s all pray for no rain! Lots of

Dedicated to a Lifetime of Women’s Health Care

º Menopause & Hormone Replacement

house mirrors, topsy turvy tabletops, and

º Gynecology º Obstetrics – Pregnancy

a hookah bar. Not quite sure if that last

º On-Site 3D & 4D Ultrasounds

Alice in Wonderland fun including fun

one was in the original Alice. Chairs are Mary Evelyn Guyton, Pauline Joerger, and Allison Scanlan with catering by Michael’s On East. Music is by Pocket

º In-Office Procedures: Essure Permanent Birth Control, Endometrial Ablation & more º Hospital Surgery

941-907-3008 º www.obgynwc.com

8340 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, Suite 240 º Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 Se Habla Español & Portuguese

November 2015

|

SCENE

111



Change. Lead sponsor is Gulf Coast Community Foundation, followed by CIA Access Gates & Controls, Mary Evely Guyton, Cornelia and Richard Matson, Pauline Joerger, and SunTrust Private Wealth Management.

I adore James Farmer and have several of his lifestyle cookbooks. I was

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

thrilled beyond words to hear he is the featured speaker at The Founder’s Garden

 

  

Club’s Flower Talk Luncheon, held at the Chelsea Center. Are you familiar with the handsome Mr. Farmer? He is

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

southern born and bred, is a professional gardener, a floral and interior designer, cook, author, and lifestyle expert. James is editor-at-large for Southern Living and his love of Southern food and cooking

 

have put him at the forefront of the garden-to-table movement. James will create an exquisite holiday tabletop



design incorporating nature. His new, just released book, A Time to Celebrate,



will be autographed and available for purchase after his presentation. Chairs are Mary Beth Goddard and Jeannie Russell. The theme is A Southern Soiree and the tables will be covered in a mix of autumnal colors of gold, magenta, and tangerine with wicker chargers, gold

I OFFER

plates, flatware, and gold rimmed glasses.

Thirty vintage containers (soup tureens, bowls, and vegetable dishes) will be used

HOME INSURANCE

for the centerpieces. These were found

OPTIONS

in consignment stores from Bradenton

Here in Florida, your choice is clear.

Everyone likes options. My office not only offers car insurance backed by a company with 80 years of experience, but also offers home insurance from several companies. Call me today!

Moss from Morton’s. A southern luncheon

to Venice. Each is different, but all will contain the same floral design by Rebecca menu will be served by Michael’s On East and will include classic shrimp and grits, apple cobbler with cinnamon ice cream and of course sweet tea. Sue Benjamin, a

George Dakkak, CLU, ChFC 941-921-6630

Founders member, has graciously offered her framed original Calla Lily drawing

3629 Webber Street, Suite A Sarasota georgedakkak@allstate.com

of the invitation to be the silent auction item. Top sponsors are Dr. Alfred and

Allstate has no financial responsibility to you for any home insurance policy you purchase and would not be responsible for any claims.

Allstate does not make any representations or accept liability related to operations of home insurance companies, including, but not limited to, their financial conditions. Subject to terms, conditions and availability. © 2012 Allstate Insurance Co.

112

SCENE

|

November 2015

104381

Mimi Hernandez, Pauline Joerger, Rectrix Aviation/Thomas and Jeannie Russell, and Williams Parker Harrison Dietz &

Getzen/Ric and Gina Gregoria.

A sea of supporters is expected to attend Planned Parenthood’s High Tide at High Noon at the Sarasota Yacht Club. Chairs are Pauline Joerger, Bianca Lawrence, Mindy Rollins, and Allison Scanlan. A bit of a change up this year is Lissa Murphy is the new fashion show producer, and Nuovo Salon & Spa is the hair and make-up provider.

Fashions for the show are by Blackbird Lifestyle, Dream Weaver, INfluence Style, and Lotus Boutique. It’s a fun show with lots of celebrity models. Another change is there will be no runway seating. Everyone will be at tables with open seating. Only the top sponsors will have reserved seating. Top sponsor is Cornelia Matson, followed by Pauline Joerger and Wayne and Mindy Rollins. SCENE Magazine is the media sponsor.

No chair for Glasser Schoenbaum Human Services Center’s Silver Soiree – A Quarter Century of Caring - just an entire committee dedicated to making this a topnotch affair! The event will be held at Michael’s On East and you will see silver, crystal, and purple, which was Dr. Kay Glasser’s favorite color. I am told there will be a “special message” on the dessert plates. The live auction will feature three items, one of which I don’t believe I have ever seen before. An 80 sq. ft. piece of a Level 3 granite counter

Michelle Crabtree

top and a sink from Sterling Cabinetry, an outing on John Saputo’s yacht, The Golden

Broker Associate, realtor®

Eagle, and the last item is a very special one - a dinner for eight at Betty Schoenbaum’s

CLHMS, CRS, CIPS, GRI, ABR, GREEN

beautiful condo catered by Michael’s On East. How much do you want to guess that might go for? Presenting Sponsor is Betty Schoenbaum, followed by Sam Shapiro, and then Gerri Aaron and Marvin Albert, and Grossman, Roth, and Partridge.

There is no other event in the two counties that bring people together like the University of South Florida’s Brunch on the Bay. Around 1,000 of the area’s prime

A third generation local and Broker Sales Associate since 1982, Michelle is dedicated to serving your needs in Sarasota, Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch.

movers and shakers throng to the campus bayfront to feast on delectable servings from over 20 area restaurants, including Eggs Benedict to Bananas Foster and Lobster Tails to Chicken and Waffles – a treat for every palate! Chairs are Tracey O’Neill and Anila Jain.

The top sponsor is Bright House Networks, followed by Betty Schoenbaum, and then Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, Turner Tree and Landscape, and the Pittsburgh Pirates/ Bradenton Marauders. SCENE Magazine is a media sponsor.

Fire & Ice is St. Stephen’s Episcopal School Parents’ Association’s Grand Gala theme held at Fete Ballroom at Polo Grill and chaired by Haily Cavalluzzi. It will be hot, hot, hot as guests are greeted by fire dancers and sip on Fire & Ice granitas. After dinner, the dance floor begins to sizzle and guests can cool off at the signature dessert bar complete with custom s’mores and hand blended ice cream to order! Emcee Rob Moran will have all paddles raised during the live auction, which includes the ever popular tuition drawing. Signature sponsor is Northern Trust, followed by The Kiddie Academy of Lakewood Ranch, Duncan Seawall, and Mauldin & Jenkins. Media sponsor is SCENE Magazine.

I believe November is the busiest month of the social season and everything has to be crammed into the first three weeks before Thanksgiving! Other events to consider attending are Lakewood Ranch Rotary Club’s Suncoast Food & Wine Fest, Florida Poodle Rescue’s Puttin’ on the Poodle, Florida Winefest’s Wild Truffle Wine Dinner, Key Chorale’s

• 2015 Five-Star Real Estate Agent “Best in Client Satisfaction” – 8 years • 2015 Florida Realtor Honor Society – 8 years • Women’s Council of Realtors 2013 “Entrepreneur of the Year” & 2009 “Business Woman of the Year” • 2013 & 2007 SAR “Meritorious Service Award” • 2010 Director, Sarasota Association of Realtors (SAR) - 3 year term • 2008 WCR Sarasota Chapter President • 2005 WCR Sarasota “realtor® of the Year”

A Harvest of Music Luncheon, Women’s Resource Center’s Fall Gathering, South Florida Museum’s Snooty Gala, All Faiths Food Bank’s Bowls of Hope, and oh, so many more.

What are you thankful this season?

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

Contact Debbi at 941-468-2782 or debbibenedict@verizon.net

c 941.724.4663 michelle.crabtree@sothebysrealty.com

www.crabtreehomes.com Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

November 2015

|

SCENE

113

Literary Scene

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

The Parish: An AmeriCorps Story In conjunction with the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, Florida publisher Windward Press has published Joel Smith’s graphic novel The Parish, which is about the AmeriCorps volunteers who helped rebuild St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana in the aftermath of Katrina. For those who need a quick review, the first pages are devoted to the basics — a guide to the parish, some key facts and information on Katrina, and cast list showcasing the five main characters in this story, Snave, Cirelle, Davy, Kiley, and Leo, the narrator.

Leo quickly sums up what his story is.

“My parents were proud I’d survived 4 years of Berkeley, but I knew that I hadn’t done anything yet. I moved home after three jobless weeks. My dad said I should work finance with him, to help with the rent. The very next month, I joined AmeriCorps. We all grow up some time.”

Comics aren’t just for kids, and neither are graphic narratives. This story is a serious coming-of-age tale set in the post-Katrina rebuilding effort. Leo thinks

he’s going to make a real difference in the world, yet his job? Run the camp newsletter. His pals have equally unsexy jobs, working in supply rooms and kitchens. “Every last one of us, me included,” Leo confesses, “was running from or to something, though not sure which.”

For those who know about Katrina, you’ll find it all here — FEMA, water, bugs, the mucking houses, everything.

The author’s own experience in AmeriCorps helps give this story an authenticity that comes through on every page.

Ryan Winet’s illustrations, too, are interesting and appropriate, being closer to a cartoon style than straightforward realism. Thematically, this works well because the story is about young people finding their way — finding themselves.

It’s really about self-definition as they experience the tug-of-war between selfishness and service. $1 per sale of each book goes to New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity. How do you not give this cool book a try?

For more information about The Parish: An AmeriCorps Story (Beating Windward, softcover, 118 pages, $17.95) or the author, please visit www.ParishComic.com

114

SCENE

|

November 2015

Chester the Manatee and the Very, Very, Terribly Bad Itch Jill Heinerth is a cave diver, underwater explorer, photographer, and filmmaker, but add writer to that list. While her other books are more in the realm of nonfiction, Chester the Manatee and the Very, Very, Terribly Bad Itch is a picture book that recounts the story of a poor manatee who struggles with an itch he can’t get scratched. His little flippers are just too stubby! The other manatees can’t help, either, and no people understand that he’s desperate for assistance. Until he meets Jani, who somehow has the ability to hear his manatee mind-talk. And once she learns that his terrible itching is caused by polluted water, she plans to ask people to take better care of the Crystal River and to stop using chemicals and fertilizers that drain from the ground into the water.

Young readers will likely appreciate the cute illustrations by Leslie Pinto. The story, too, doesn’t just tell an anti-pollution tale — it’s also about how special children should embrace their differences. Pick up your own copy today online or get one in person at the South Florida Museum gift shop.

For more information about Chester the Manatee and the Very, Very, Terribly Bad Itch (Create Space, softcover, 60 pages, $14.95) or the author, please visit www.intotheplanet.com

How Small, Confronting Morning: Poems Florida author Lola Haskins’ new book focuses on inland Florida — “as close to plein air experiences as I could make them.” And she does a delightful job of capturing the constant flow of the natural world, eschewing most normal punctuation to give it that feel. By way of example, here’s her poem “River Bloom” in its entirety. floating down the ichetucknee one march afternoon in warmth a joy after weeks of cold we pass four ibis so young their feathers have not yet whitened around a bend the scent of bridal blossom floods the air there was a time when i’d have picked some of those sweet flowers and breathless laid them in your shoe Haskins has a deftness with language that moves beyond mere nature poetry and touches upon something profound. To read her poetry is to stroll among the great oaks, spiderwort, and overhanging ash, and then drink deep of your senses. As she writes in “Spiderwort”: paddle gently such blossoms will not come again and breathe breathe all you can Readers who enjoy the nature-praise style of Mary Oliver find much to admire here

Th

e A l l New

The Hidden Gem of the Riviera Dunes Marina 102 Riviera Dunes Way Palmetto, FL 34221 941-479-7827 blumangrove.com Available for:

Lunch Dinner Happy Hour Special Events Featuring:

Exotic Seafoods Raw Bar Sushi Hand Selected Steaks Dockside Boat Parking Live Music Nightly

in this collection that will appear in early 2016.

For more information about How Small, Confronting Morning: Poems (Jacar Press, softcover, 50 pages, $15.95) or the author, please visit www.lolahaskins.com November 2015

|

SCENE

115

HEALTH

Women & Heart Disease

By Enrique Rivera, MD

Heart disease is the leading killer of men and women in the United States, but did you know that more than 500,000 women die of cardiovascular disease each year? In fact, heart disease related deaths in women are greater than the number of heart disease related deaths in men. There are many non – modifiable and modifiable risk factors associated with women and heart disease. Men develop cardiovascular disease at younger ages, but incidence and prevalence equalize for women after menopause. Being post-menopausal is Enrique Rivera, MD

considered an independent risk factor.

Coastal Cardiovascular Associates

Diabetes poses a greater risk than any other factor. Women with diabetes have seven

3904 Cortez Road W

times more cardiovascular events than other women and about half of them die of cardio-

Bradenton, FL 34210

vascular disease. Women with diabetes and cardiovascular disease, especially Hispanic

941.752.2840

and African American women, die at a much higher rate than men or non-diabetic women.

Hypertension is another risk factor, especially if it develops before menopause. At least half of women may have hypertension before menopause, with prevalence greatest in African America women. Elevated blood pressure is two to three times more common in women who take oral contraceptives, especially in older women who are overweight. Smoking even a few cigarettes a day correlates with a great risk of cardiovascular disease. Obesity also plays a factor in heart disease. Central obesity poses a greater risk than increased body mass index (BMI).A healthy waist circumference in women should be less than 35 inches and desired BMI should be between 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m2.

A sedentary lifestyle can also contribute to obesity and hypertension. Exercise can reduce cardiovascular risk by increasing high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and decreasing blood pressure, blood glucose, and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Exercise can cut a woman’s cardiovascular risk by half and may significantly decrease the risk of a second cardiovascular event in a postmenopausal woman. Thirty minutes of moderate intensity physical activity a day is ideal; 60 minutes for women who need to lose weight or sustain weight loss. Stress can also be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and poorer outcomes.

Signs and symptoms in men differ greatly from women. Men still have the classic chest pain characterized by heavy, crushing, or squeezing feeling. Their symptoms commonly occur with physical exertion or emotion. Women have more subtle symptoms than in men, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and changes in sleep patterns. Discomfort may also be more generalized or subtle such as heaviness, squeezing, or pain in left chest, abdomen, mid back, or shoulder. Arm pain could occur or palpitations or pain that is sharp and fleeting. Anginal discomfort may occur during rest or sleep or with other symptoms during exertion. Acute discomfort more likely occurs in the neck, back, arm, shoulder, jaw, or throat, possibly accompanied by other symptoms such as; nausea, indigestion, upper abdominal pain, fatigue, dizziness, and fainting.

If you or a loved one have any of the above risk factors or symptoms it is critical that they work to reduce their risk factors with exercise, stress reduction and annual medical exams. Acute symptoms should always be treated in the emergency department but other patients should be evaluated with certain tests at their cardiologist. If at risk or high risk, an exercise stress test or an exercise echocardiography (stress echo) are the most reliable tests for women. Take control of your number such as blood pressure, cholesterol and BMI. Know your family history, stay active, lose weight if overweight and eat healthy. Trust your instincts and rely on your physicians for advice and testing.

116

SCENE

|

November 2015

HEALTH

Gallbladder Disease: The Signs & Symptoms

By Robert L. Browning IV, MD When it comes to gallbladder disease, women are much more likely than men to experience problems leading to surgery. The “classic” patient is female, over 40, has had children and is overweight.

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ that acts as a reservoir for bile which Robert L. Browning IV, MD

helps in the digestion of fat. Bile also serves to rid the body of toxins released by the

Intercoastal Medical Group

breakdown of red blood cells.

3333 Cattlemen Road, Suite #206 Sarasota, FL 34232

We think the reason women may have more of an issue with gallbladder disease

(941) 341-0042

than men is related to estrogen, but men certainly see their share of issues with it, too.

11505 Rangeland Parkway

Gallbladder disease is largely related to a high-fat diet, which exacerbates the for-

Bradenton, FL 34211

mation of gallstones. Once formed, those gallstones never go away. There is also some

(941) 362-8662 On staff at Doctors Hospital of Sarasota,

genetic predisposition toward the condition. The best prevention against forming gall-

visit www.doctorsofsarasota.com.

stones is to maintain a healthy weight, eat a high fiber diet and avoid highly processed foods.

The good news is that it is a very treatable condition with today’s surgical techniques. People survive quite well without gallbladders. They recover quickly and there is no long-term effect.

The signs and symptoms of a typical gallbladder can include abdominal pain, usually located on the right side under the rib cage, right shoulder pain and nausea and vomiting after meals, particularly in the late afternoon or evening.

Most of my surgical gallbladder patients are referred to me by their primary care physicians. Ultrasound studies confirm the presence of gallstones and a nuclear medicine study can further assess gallbladder function.

I perform most of my gallbladder surgeries at Doctors Hospital of Sarasota with laparoscopy – a minimally invasive procedure that uses specialized scopes and other instruments to reach inside the body. Four small incisions – the largest being only 1 cm – are required for the instruments.

Former U.S. President, Lyndon B. Johnson famously opened his shirt to the press to show a nearly foot long scar from his much publicized gallbladder surgery in the 60s.

Today’s technique is so well refined that in most cases patients are home the same day.

For more information on Gallbladder Disease, please visit: www.intercoastalmedicalgroup.com/patienteducation/gallbadderdisease

November 2015

|

SCENE

117

HEALTH

Solutions for Rosacea

By Heidi K. Anderson, M.D.

“I am too old for acne.” “No, I did not get a sunburn.“ “I understand my triggers, but I do not want to live a boring life.” Adult inflammatory acne or rosacea affects 14 million people in the US and typically in the age range of 30-50 years. On the surface, rosacea is red inflamed skin that can have progressive stages of white heads, red bumps, dry eyes and swelling. But psychosocially, in surveys by the National Rosacea Society, nearly 70 percent of rosacea patients said this condition had lowered their self-confidence and self-esteem, and 41 percent reported it had caused them to avoid public contact or cancel social engagements. Also, beneath the surface, we only recently are uncovering the multifactorial causative agents like genetics, innate immune system, neurovascular system and demodex Heidi K. Anderson, M.D. Dermatology & Oculoplastic Consultants (DOCS) 5310 Clark Road, Ste. 201 Sarasota, FL 34238 941.925.DOCS

mites and microbes.

Stages: 1. Erythematotelangiectatic – central facial redness, flushing and visible vessels 2. Papulopustular – acne like breakouts and sensitive skin 3. Phymatous – thickening of the skin 4. Ocular – inflamed and dry eyes with a tendency to get styes Triggers: 1. Ultraviolet light 2. Chemicals or irritants on the skin 3. Spicy foods, caffeine and red wine 4. Extreme emotions or stress Causes: 1. Genetics – Individuals that are fair-skinned and most predominately Celtic or Scandinavian ancestry and an affected relative are more likely to manifest rosacea.

2. Immune system – Understanding the milieu of skin affected by rosacea is the target of current research. Cathelicidins are a protein that protects against bacteria and they are at higher levels in patients that have rosacea. Its presence has been shown to lead to inflammatory pimples and bumps and the vascular effects.

3. Neurovascular – The triggers that stimulate rosacea also stimulate our sensory nervous system and lead to redness and warmth.

4. Mites and Microbes – Statistically the demodex mite is found in a higher percentage on the cheeks and nose of patients that have rosacea and anti-mite creams have beneficial outcomes. Also, a higher percentage of patients who have rosacea have Helicobacter pylori. So it is unclear if these agents are causative, or if the altered environment allows them to flourish.

At DOCs, we have years of experience with Rosacea and can address the condition from the medical, ocular and cosmetic avenues. Depending upon your presentation, you may need to make simple lifestyle changes and incorporate a physical barrier sunscreen with minimum of SPF 30 and non-irritating cleansers and moisturizing serums or lotions.

One may need to advance to topical anti-inflammatory creams or oral antibiotics. Our oculofacial plastic surgeon can assist with regimens for the dry eyes or surgical intervention for chronic styes. And to put your best face forward, vascular lasers can reduce the background redness and blushing or distinct blood vessels plus light therapies like photodynamic therapy can lessen outbreaks.

118

SCENE

|

November 2015

Turning Your Dreams Into An Address Wanda Martinetto REALTOR

®

Servicing Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota & Bradenton

Cell: 941.773.7807 Office: 941.556.0500 Email: Wanda@LuxuryLakewoodRanchHomes.com Web:

LuxuryLakewoodRanchHomes.com

Keller Williams Realty 8210 Lakewood Ranch Blvd | Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated

More than a printer…

Personalization

Financial Services

Healthcare

Multi-Channel

Direct Mail Hospitality

Business Development

Fundraising Real Estate

Book Publishing

Self-publishing Authors

Graphic Design

Tourism Business to Business

Appeals

Trade Show Marketing

Member Recruitment and Retention

Our Company has a proven track record of success in listing and selling underwater property. We have helped many homeowners solve their real estate problems through a short sale. Call today to see if we can help you too.

Copywriting

(941) 302-4812 Collateral Printing

Make SERBIN your print marketing partner!

1500 N. Washington Blvd.

Sarasota, Florida 34236 941-366-0755 • 800-282-6192

Mail-it DIRECT MAIL SERVICES

SerbinPrinting.com The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce PAF – Printing Association of Florida

At Solutions Realty, we work in conjunction with a Board Certified Real Estate Attorney to defend your foreclosure and negotiate your short sale approval.

*Call today to learn more about our programs Higher Education

Nonprofit

Manufacturing

LIST YOUR PROPERTY WITH ME AND YOUR FORECLOSURE DEFENSE IS FREE!*

AFP – Association of Fundraising Professionals PODi – Print on Demand Initiative

FPRA – Florida Public Relations Assoc.

XEROX – Premier Partner

500 S. Washington Blvd, Ste. 400 Sarasota, Florida 34236 www.solutionssarasota.com Michael B. Edwards, Broker Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource Certified by National Association of Realtors

LOCALLY

NEWS SHAPING

OUR COMMUNITY John Grisham to Headline 2016 Library Foundation Fundraiser for Manatee Public Library System

Education Foundation of Sarasota County Announces New Executive Director

Legal thriller novelist John Grisham will headline the Manatee Library Foundation’s marquee fundraiser a January 2016 event at State College of Florida’s Neel Performing Arts Center. Stephen King, last year’s Foundation speaker, will also be a part of the event and will interview Grisham on stage. The event, “Book–Ends: An Evening with Two Literary Giants” will be held Tuesday, January 19, 2016. Organizers are hoping to sell out the 832–seat venue and to raise $175,000 for the Library System. For sponsorship and ticket information, visit manateelibraryfoundation.org.

The Education Foundation of Sarasota County, Inc. Board of Directors announced the appointment of Jennifer Vigne as its new Executive Director. Jennifer Vigne succeeds Susan Scott who is retiring in January 2016 after four years leading the organization. Vigne is a prominent development professional from the Sarasota-Manatee nonprofit community who most recently served as Mote Marine Laboratory’s Campaign Director leading its ongoing $50 million comprehensive campaign. She also helped guide the successful completion of Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School’s campaign that resulted in a new middle school as well as overall growth in its philanthropic advancement efforts. Vigne assumes her new position effective November 2. educationfoundation.net

GULF COAST COMMUNITY FOUNDATION NAMES MARK PRITCHETT NEW PRESIDENT AND CEO The Board of Directors of Gulf Coast Community Foundation has named Mark Pritchett as Gulf Coast’s new president and CEO. Pritchett, who was the foundation’s senior vice president for community investment, begins his new role immediately.

Pritchett succeeds former president and CEO Teri A Hansen, who resigned in June after 13 years at Gulf Coast to become CEO of a private family foundation. Pritchett served on the fourperson management team that has been overseeing Gulf Coast’s day-to-day work since July. gulfcoastcf.org

Florida Studio Theatre Announces Major Contribution To The Rosemary Artist Housing Project Florida Studio Theatre recognized Ernest Kretzmer for his major contribution, which will assist with The Rosemary Artist Housing Project. In its completion, there will be five new townhouses on Cohen Way in Sarasota’s Rosemary District to house visiting artists and interns. Mr. Kretzmer’s generous support helps fill the pressing need for quality housing that is safe, accessible, and within close proximity to downtown. FST is scheduled to break ground on the project sometime after the New Year. floridastudiotheatre.org

120

SCENE

|

November 2015

The Concession Residences Announced

Availability of Premier Lots in Final Phase

The Concession Residences announced the availability of premier lots in its final phase of development. Featuring 38 one–acre home sites with lake views, lots start at $369,000 with custom homes beginning at $1 million. Builders include Anchor Builders, Arthur Rutenberg, Johnson Homes of West Florida, John Cannon Homes, Lee Wetherington Homes, Neal Signature, Emerald Homes and Reinhart Elite. The Concession is coming off a banner year in which 55 lots sold and 16 homes were completed. Year to date, 23 home sites have sold at an average price of $305,617, an 18 percent increase year-over-year. theconcessionrealestate.com

Van Wezel Foundation 15th Annual Gala to Feature Josh Groban Internationally renowned singer, songwriter and actor Josh Groban will make his Sarasota debut on Sunday, February 28, 2016, as the featured entertainer for The Van Wezel Foundation’s 15th Annual Gala. Reservations for this year’s Oscar Night Gala begin at $475 per person and include cocktails by the bay, live & silent auction, catered dinner, premium performance seating and an after–party that will

begin immediately following the show. For additional information on sponsorships and Gala reservations, visit vwfoundation.org or call the Van Wezel Foundation at (941) 366–5578.

V Foundation Announces Grants Funded by the 2015 Dick Vitale Gala The V Foundation announced nearly $5 million in pediatric cancer research grants awarded this year. Of the 11 grants awarded to cancer institutes across the country, seven were funded by the 2015 Dick Vitale Gala held in Sarasota earlier this year. Many of the grants awarded were established in memory or honor of pediatric cancer patients who have recently inspired communities nationwide. Three of the seven grants funded by the Dick Vitale Gala totaled $1,000,000. Jimmyv.org | dickvitaleonline.com

Gulf Coast Community Foundation Awards “Arts Appreciation” Grants Gulf Coast Community Foundation has awarded $410,000 in grants to nine regional arts and cultural organizations. The unrestricted grants, which range from $30,000 to $65,000, may be used as the organizations best see fit to advance their artistic missions. The nine Arts Appreciation grants awarded this year were: Asolo Repertory Theatre – $65,000; Coexistence, Inc. (Embracing Our Differences) – $40,000; Florida Studio Theatre – $40,000; John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art – $50,000; Sarasota Ballet – $55,000; Sarasota Opera – $50,000; Sarasota Orchestra – $50,000; Venice Symphony – $30,000; Venice Theatre – $30,000. gulfcoastcf.org

Reintroducing an old favorite.

Whether you’re planning a wedding, birthday party, reunion, holiday gathering or any social occasion, you’ll relive old memories and create new ones at the Boathouse at Hyatt Regency Sarasota. As the hotel celebrates the 40th anniversary of its grand opening, the legendary Boathouse has received a facelift, and this one-of-akind setting is now available exclusively for special events. To book your next gathering or for more information, call 941 953 1234 or visit sarasota.hyatt.com.

HYATT REGENCY SARASOTA

1000 Boulevard of the Arts Sarasota, Florida, USA, 34236 The trademark HYATT and related marks are trademarks of Hyatt Corporation. ©2015 Hyatt Corporation.

All rights reserved.

SRQSS5254_HR Sarasota SCENE Magazine Ad.indd 1

November 2015 9/10/2015 121 | SCENE4:36:46 PM

REWIND

1975

On November 1, 1975 Sarasota society celebrated in grand style the opening of the Hyatt House Hotel (now the Hyatt Regency Sarasota). Hyatt cofounder Jack Pritzker joined the fun and famed bandleader Peter Duchin entertained. Wow. It must have been quite the night.

An Evening to Remember Extravaganza attracting close to 1,000 formally opened the Hyatt House Hotel in a New College Library Association benefit. Jack Pritzker, second from right above and whose family owns the 47-hotel chain, with co-chairmen Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Steinbaum, left, and Mr. and Mrs. Saul Howard with orchestra leader Peter Duchin. In left photo, the Frank Oehlschlaegers, left, and the Jack Chris Kahns arrive aboard the yacht “Seagrace.� Below from left Mr. and Mrs. Carroll Anderson, John Segal, Mrs. A.L. Ellis, Charles Bailey and Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Swan. (Barney Stein Photos)

122

SCENE

|

November 2015

Studio South Fitness

For those who want more...

You’ve always chosen the very best...

For your family. For your lifestyle.

Now you can choose the best for your body with our three for one personal training special.

55 S. Palm Ave. |Sarasota, FL 34236 | 941.365.4584 | studiosouthfitness.com