April2015

The

Tina Stephens

STYLE OBSESSION

Luxurious Finds Favorite Travel Destinations It's Film Festival Time!

Manatee-Sarasota Building Industry Association

2015 Parade of Homes

Design Award Winners at The Concession

Best Curb Appeal, Master Suite, Architectural Detail and Overall Winner: The Verona

Best Kitchen (tie) and Best Curb Appeal, Master Suite, Floorplan, Architectural Detail and Overall Winner: The Avianna

Congratulations to OurWinners!

TheConcessionRealEstate.com 8305 Lindrick Lane | Bradenton, FL 34202 | (941) 388-0501 Monday - Saturday, 10am - 5pm | Sunday Noon - 5pm

Best Curb Appeal, Kitchen, Master Suite, Floorplan, Architectural Detail and Overall Winner: Dominica II

Best Curb Appeal, Kitchen, Master Suite, Floorplan, Architectural Detail and Overall Winner: The Modena

Attention to Detail Makes the Difference AnchorBuilders.com

only 69 home-sites remain... all half acre & one acre+ lake or preserve views

JOHNSON H O M E S

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

of Living

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AN EXCEPTIONAL, LUXURIOUS NOT-FOR-PROFIT CARE FACILITY

NOW ACCEPTING MEDICARE, INSURANCE AND PRIVATE PAY PATIENTS

MEDICAL CARE & SUPERVISION

SPECIALIZED REHABILITIATION SERVICES

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

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

• Personal Physicians

• Interdisciplinary Team of Experienced Professionals

• 24/7 RN, LPN and CMA Staffing

• State-of-the-Art Therapy Equipment

• Licensed Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapists

• Evidence-based care & Individualized Treatment

• Registered Dietician and Nutritional Management

• Physical, Occupational & Speech Rehabilitative Therapies

• Social Services

• Case Management to Maximize Benefits

• Full-Time Activities Director

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

License # SNF130471051

EOE

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

The Good Life April 2015

Volume 58 No. 4

46

52

44 FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT Dick Vitale’s 10 Year Battle to End Pediatric Cancer

By Sue Cullen

46 PUT A PIN IN IT Locals Share Divine Destinations

By Sue Engelhart

52 ON THE A-LIST Fashion Obsession: Tina Stephens

By Sue Cullen

60 FASHION

60

Sugar Photography and Styling by John Revisky

68 LUX TOYS

By Rem Fields

80 A POWERFUL 10 YEAR JOURNEY Theatre Odyssey Ten Minute Play Festival

cover

Photography: John Revisky | Photo Assistant: Alyssa Woods | Hair: Ana Molinari | Makeup: Dayanna Palomino Model: Crystal Rischar | Nails: Star Gautier

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The Best Orthopedic Care More Agile As an established regional referral center for Orthopedics, Sarasota Memorial and its experienced surgeons specialize in the most advanced joint repair and replacement procedures.

Now the best Orthopedic care is located on the top floor of our new Courtyard Tower. Private rooms are spacious, healing and high-tech. A new physical therapy gym promotes post-surgery recovery and patients have our highly trained care team as their partners every step of the way. The best orthopedic care is now more agile than ever – and so are our patients.

smh.com/ortho

DEPARTMENTS

74

SOCIALS 18 Saint Stephen’s Grand Gala 20 Education Foundation’s Evening of Excellence 30 Catholic Charities’ Mardi Gras Madness 42 Goodwill Manasota’s Mardi Gras Gala 58 Asolo Rep’s 2015 Annual Gala 72 Sarasota Exotic Car Fest Jet Port Reception

22 EVENTS CALENDAR 26 PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR 32 CULTURE MATTERS Presented by The Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

GIVING 38 Intelligent Giving Barbara Brizdle

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

40 Accounting for Good Taste Pat Kenny

82

By Steven J. Smith

74 SCENE TOGETHER Engagements & Weddings

82 SCENES FROM AN INTERVIEW Jess Weixler – Rising Star

By Gus Mollasis

86 SCENES FROM SARASOTA FILM FESTIVALS Looking Back

By Gus Mollasis

90 EDUCATION MATTERS Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

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

By Debbi Benedict

101 SCENE LOCALLY News Shaping Our Community

103 HEALTH MATTERS Woman to Woman: Real Breast Talk

By Alissa M. Shulman, M.D., F.A.C.S., Sovereign Plastic Surgery

104 LITERARY SCENE

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

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

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

MORE THAN JUST RUGS!

Locally Owned, Operated & Printed Since 1957 CEO/President

Ronald Milton

Executive Editor

Julie A. Milton

Editor

Sue Engelhart

Account Executive

Kathy Herbst

Art Director Special Issue Coordinator Distribution Contributing Writers

Michelle Cross Debbi Benedict Dick Jackson Debbi Benedict Sue Cullen Rem Fields Gus Mollasis Steven J. Smith Ryan G. Van Cleave

Photographers

Nancy Guth Daniel Perales John Revisky Jessica Tasetano

Address

5939 Approach Road, Sarasota, FL 34238

Phone

Rugs As Art ...And More!

6650 S. Tamiami Trail 2015 Sarasota, FL 34231 941.921.1900 rugsasart.com 12

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Fax Website

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

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

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

Reproduction without permission is prohibited. ISSN 1535-8895. scenesarasota.com

Exclusive Kitchens and More The Kitchen is the Heart of your Home

Mention this ad to receive 10% off.

EXCELLENT QUALITY AND SERVICE FROM START TO FINISH Call for Your FREE In-Home Consultation • 941-580-9005

Visit our Showroom: 6051 N. Washington Boulevard, Sarasota FL 34243 • www.exclusivekitchensandmore.com

FROM THE CEO

Also, the distribution and reputation of the magazine is key. Is it reaching your target market? Is it being mailed and if so, to what communities, areas of town, and to whom? Is it in hundreds of public waiting rooms where new people can pick it up and read it or is it sitting outside a store in a rack exposed to the elements? Are thousands being placed on newsstands where most of them don’t get purchased and are eventually thrown out? Is it a new publication with an unproven track record and limited distribution? Do many of the issues get mailed out of state? Is it only going to paid subscribers, which severely limits your exposure? If the magazine is just mailed to people who pay for it, what about all the new people coming to Sarasota every month? How do they find out about you? Is the publication

I

so big that your ad will get lost and the magazine becomes a “flipper”? Do your research. SCENE has a great distribution would like to take this opportunity to thank our many

model through both paid and targeted mailing, the many events

thousands of loyal readers and our advertisers for the

we sponsor, SCENE’s website where you can read every issue

incredible number of notes, phone calls and emails we

at no cost, and our extensive public place waiting room copies

continue to receive telling us you really like our content and the

which maximizes our advertisers’ exposure in the community.

great results you are getting from marketing in SCENE. We never

We believe this is the strongest distribution model for our

get tired of hearing that SCENE is the magazine you actually read

advertiser’s return.

and look to for what’s happening and who is making a difference

Besides providing good customer service and outstanding

in our community. SCENE has been proudly delivering relevant

exposure for our clients, SCENE also gives back to the community

content to this community for 58 years, far longer than any other

it has so proudly served. We donate in excess of $250,000 each

local magazine. Throughout these years, there have only been

year in advertising space in support of arts and culture and

three owners of SCENE with my wife Julie and I being the third.

human service organizations. We do so with passion and pride

We took over as publishers in 2007.

because we realize it is only through giving that we flourish as

Julie and I would also like to thank our marketing partners, many

a community. We also print our publication locally at a higher

of whom have been with SCENE for years, for your confidence and

expense than if we printed out of state, but we choose to leave

belief in SCENE. At SCENE, we all care deeply about your return

our dollars in our local community putting back millions in our

on investment, and we try very hard to help our clients succeed.

local economy over the years. Most other local magazines can’t

Building long and solid relationships with our clients, connecting

make this claim as they print outside of our community.

them to others in the community, and helping them beyond the

Magazines have come and gone throughout the 58 years

ads they place is our number one priority. We realize you have

of SCENE’s existence so we feel very blessed that SCENE has

options, and we do our utmost to show our appreciation.

continued to thrive. We thank all of our readers and many

Image and branding are so important for the success of most

loyal advertisers for making SCENE what it is today and

businesses long term. You need to choose wisely. Placing an

together we look forward to an even brighter future for many

ad one time is a waste of money unless it is to promote a one-

years to come.

time event or special offer. Consistency makes your business a household name and brings top of mind awareness when consumers need your goods or services.

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Stuart J. Roth Founder and President

Salt & Light Productions is the award winning non-profit organization dedicated to providing multi-media program services to charities across the nation.

Salt & Light Radio WITH

Stuart J. Roth

Saturdays at Noon

WSRQ

1220 AM/106.9 FM

Salt & Light Radio with Stuart J. Roth shares compelling testimonies from people in our community who inspire us to greatness and action.

We strive to address many of the social, economic and spiritual issues confronting families and individuals in life’s most challenging situations. Our radio program reflects the same commitment to public service that has been exemplified by our video program services at Salt & Light Productions.

Our mission is to serve others and be a source of inspiration and encouragement to those less fortunate.

We remain cognizant that “to whom much is given, much is required.”

7357 Merchant Court • Sarasota, FL 34240 • Phone 941.487.4061 • Fax 941.487.4062

www.saltandlightproductions.org

FROM THE EXECUTIVE EDITOR

D

on’t you just love April? It is always such

a

lovely

month. It has a day we can be foolish; it honors Earth Day; it is National Poetry Month;

its zodiac signs are the leader and the bull (an interesting pair); it is derived from the Latin Aprilis, meaning to open, signifying the budding of trees and flowers; it was the month “given” to Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty; and, best of all, the birthstone for April is diamonds.

All of this leads me to this issue – The Good Life. This phrase means a lot of different things to a lot of people but for this issue, I’ve taken a bit more of a luxury focus than my usual “making life better for all” focus. You’ll find some fashion, vacation spots, and amazing jewelry. But don’t worry. You’ll still find some stories about people who do so much good

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.

making the lives of others better. After all, that’s what SCENE is known for – editorial about good people doing good things.

Now, back to National Poetry Month. Here’s one for you: I strive to lead a good life Doing unto others and Helping others in strife.

But is it good enough?

I am sure not.

I know in my heart I can do better.

Excuses are weak; Actions speak louder.

So tomorrow I will try harder Because if I don’t, I’ll never know if I can go farther.

If you hate it, I have no idea who wrote it. If you like it, I did. I hope you enjoy April, the month of change and new

Historic Southside Village 1924 South Osprey Avenue Sarasota ∙ (941) 955-9856 MortonsMarket.com 16

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beginnings.

scenesarasota.com

Concierge Custom Building For more information and a listing of available lots, floor plans, and services, please visit our website at nuttercustomconstruction.com.

Remodeling Project Management

LEED Accredited Professional

941.924.1868 201 Fletcher Avenue Sarasota, FL 34237

Florida Licensed Building Contractor CBC 060004

Florida Licensed Real Estate Broker BK3222256

Florida Licensed Home Inspector HI4630

Social Saint Stephen’s Grand Gala Dancers whirled — with and without masks — at Saint Stephen’s annual Grand Gala. It was an elegant setting at the Manatee Performing Arts Center embellished by clever touches like Black Magic roses. In addition to dining and dancing, guests participated in live and silent auctions with great prizes and a wine cache raffle. Great job by Chair Anne Rourke.

Photos by Nancy Guth

Jan Pullen & Hugh Miller

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Rob Morin, Jean Boothby, Andrew Forrester & Sue Thomas

Kelly & Dr. Scott Engel

Jen Conner & Anne Rourke

Dannie & Gardner Sherrill

scenesarasota.com

The Otto Group

“We are passionate and grateful to serve our clients and community at the highest level; that is how we define The Good Life”.

D

efining “The Good Life” means different things to different people. It may be the greater good such as helping others, it may be traveling, it can be activities such as tennis or golf or yachting. Regardless of how you define your goals and ambitions, Matt Otto, CFP®, SVP, Private Financial Advisor with SunTrust Investment Services, Inc., and his well experienced team understand that the proper financial preparation is paramount in realizing and protecting what’s most important to you.

The Otto Group Matthew Otto, CFP®

SVP, Private Financial Advisor SunTrust Investment Services, Inc. SunTrust Private Wealth Management

1777 M ain St., 7th Floor With over 120 years of combined experience, The Otto Group offers high net worth investors a distinctive approach to comprehensive asset management.

“We define wealth management vis-à-vis a unique formula: Investment Consulting + Advanced Planning + Relationship Management,” said Matt.

All advisors practice investment consulting, some better than others. “We believe additional value is created through our advanced planning offerings which range from estate strategies and asset protection to softer items such as health and wellness and various concierge services,” Matt explained.

Sarasota , FL 34236 941.951.3052 matthew.otto @ suntrust.com suntrust.com /wealth

“Of the 450,000 people that call themselves wealth managers, only about four percent apply the advanced planning component — which is the component that adds tremendous value and that we take a great deal of pride in offering,” Matt said.

Investment and Insurance Products: •Are not FDIC or any other Government Agency Insured • Are not Bank Guaranteed •May Lose Value SunTrust Private Wealth Management is a marketing name used by SunTrust Banks, Inc. and the following affiliates: Banking and trust products and services, including investment advisory products and services, are provided by SunTrust Bank. Securities, insurance (including annuities) and other investment products and services are offered by SunTrust Investment Services, Inc., an SEC registered investment adviser and broker-dealer, member FINRA, SIPC, and a licensed insurance agency.

Left to Right: Nicole Penland, Karen Rivot, Matt Otto, Angelo Lombardo & Kelly Christiansen

Social Education Foundation’s Evening of Excellence Going,

going,

gone!

The

Education

Foundation celebrated the 20th anniversary of its popular Evening of Excellence Student Art Auction and Gala. High school teachers submitted 350 of their students’ best works, and the top 25 were chosen for auction.

Cathi Bell chaired this year’s event, and Cindy Kaiser was honorary chair.

Photos

by Nancy Guth

Cathi Bell & Susan Scott

Samantha Gallahan & Jennifer Layer

Sherry Koski, Arthur Boyce, Louis DeCongelio, Tom Koski, Mark & Alix Morin

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

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

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calendar

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

Photo by John Revisky

La Musica’s 29th Annual International Chamber Music Festival April 4 – 15 Various times and locations. This year’s theme is “Things New.” One of the highlights of the festival is the world premiere of a new composition written by Sarasota resident Jerry Bilik. Single tickets: $15 - $40 | 941.366.8450, option 7 | lamusicafestival.org Asolo Rep’s Season Celebration on Stage April 6 Mertz Theatre, 6:30 pm. Dramatic and interactive dinner on stage in celebration of the entire season. Tickets: $250 | 941.351.9010, ext. 4702 | asolorep.org/dinneronstage La Musica’s Musical Chefs Interactive Dinner April 10 Michael’s On East Ballroom, 6 pm. A lively, interactive dinner event featuring La Musica artists taking turns leading the crowd in cooking demonstrations for the evening’s meal. Tickets: $150 - $250 | 941.371.6798 | lamusicafestival.org 27th Annual Girls Inc. Celebration Luncheon April 10 Ritz-Carlton, 10:30 am. Dream Harbor boutique shopping and awards presentation

by National Girls Inc. CEO Judy Vredenburgh. Tickets: $100 | 941.366.4617 | girlsincsrq.org 17th Annual Sarasota Film Festival April 10 – 19 Various times and locations. More than 180 films run from 10 am to 12 am daily at Regal Cinemas Hollywood 20, Sarasota. Events include the Opening Night Film and Party, “At Lunch With…” luncheon, Cinema Tropicale Celebration, Conversation Series, and Closing Night Film with Filmmaker Tribute Awards. 941.366.6200 | sarasotafilmfestival.com

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State College of Florida Foundation’s Evening Under the Stars April 11 SCF Venice campus, 6 pm. An outdoor concert featuring SCF music students and the Venice Symphony Pops Orchestra. Concludes with a fireworks display. Tickets: $15 - $25 | scffoundation.net Tropical Nights Annual Benefit for Meals On Wheels PLUS of Manatee April 11 Renaissance on 9th, 5:30 pm. Diners and Doo-Wop is the theme with ‘50s music, food and drink. Guests are invited to dress for the era, and there will be a prize for best dressed.

Tickets: $150 | 941.747.4655 | mealsonwheelsplus.org Take Stock in Children’s Sailors and Sandals

New Hearing Technology Is a Game Changer Doug Gibson, Fellow Hearing Aid User

I have always been a skeptic when it comes to manufacturers’ claims and believe “if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!” When Siemens claimed its

April 11 Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach, 7 pm. The Matt Win-

latest technology gives better speech understanding in

ters Band will be performing for an incredibly fun night on the

noisy situations than people with normal hearing have,

beach for a great cause. Proceeds benefit Take Stock in Chil-

I was intrigued. The science made sense, and I bought

dren of Sarasota County. Tickets: $75 | takestocksarasota.org

a pair for myself.

Greenfield Prize in Music Award Dinner

This new technology has been a game changer for me.

April 12 Michael’s On East, 6:30 pm. Honoring musician Nilo Cruz. Actress Olympia Dukakis is the keynote speaker.

Tickets: $195 | hermitageartistretreat.org

I wore the new aids at a crowded restaurant at lunchtime and sat outside amid U.S. 41 traffic and with music piped in from above. Everyone was talking, and I made it a point to talk to everyone I could. It was delightful.

with brief discussions. 941.228.9097 | lamusicafestival.org

“

AFP’s Gems of Philanthropy

I have a Bose home theater system I no longer use since

April 14 Michael’s on East, 11:30 am. Celebrating women’s

my TV streams directly into my hearing aids. And the

La Musica’s Simply Sonatas at Sainer April 13 Mildred Sainer Pavillion at New College, 5:30 pm.

Come as you are after work, relax and enjoy an intimate and casual performance of beautiful sonatas interspersed

philanthropy in Sarasota and benefiting the Association of Fundraising Professionals Southwest Florida Chapter. Tickets $50 | 941.921.5410 | afpswfl.afpnet.org 3rd Annual CPC Blue Ties & Butterflies April 15 Michael’s On East, 6 pm. Child Protection Center’s signature event to make a difference in the lives of children and families in the community. Tickets: $175 | 941.365.1277 | cpcsarasota.org Fore The Love of Habitat April 17 Laurel Oak Country Club, 8:30 am. Includes golf, lunch, dinner, open bar, and live and silent auctions. Benefits Habitat for Humanity Sarasota. Comedy night at McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre the night before. Tickets $175 | 941.365.0700 | habitatsrq.org scenesarasota.com

Rather than keeping to myself, I was for the first time hearing better than most people at the restaurant.

”

sound quality is better! I can answer my phone through my aids while watching TV without the phone. I am happier, less stressed, and not exhausted from trying to hear people all day long.

I am so impressed with Siemens’ technology, I want you to try it without charge so you can experience what you’ve been missing!

941.927.2424

2344 Bee Ridge Rd. #101 (corner of Shade) Sarasota, FL 34239 April 2015

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It’s time for Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s

14th Annual Golf Tournament Again this year... Two-Field Tournament!

East and West courses open!

Join us on Friday, May 1, 2015, at Laurel Oak Country Club Registration: 9:00 a.m.

Shotgun Start: 10:30 a.m.

Format: Scramble Cost: $295 per player

Event includes golf, cart, breakfast, awards luncheon, beverages and a signature player gift.

Media Sponsor

Space is limited, so act now! Sponsorships are still available.

For more information or to reserve your space, contact Lisa Intagliata at 941-917-1286.

Proceeds benefit the Physicians Endowment

(Fund for SMH staff education)

UCP’s Kids’ Black Tie April 18 Circus Arts Conservatory, 4:30 pm. Dress up under the Big Top. After party begins at 8 pm. Proceeds benefit United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota. Tickets: $50 - $150 | 941.348.9039 | ucpsarasota.org Perlman Hear and Now Concert Reception April 19 Sarasota Opera House, 3 pm. Ariel Quartet performance followed by meet the artists reception. Tickets: $30 – $40 | 941.355.8450, ext. 1 | pmpsuncoast.org CVA’s 25th Anniversary Hall of Fame Luncheon April 21 Michael’s On East, 11:30 am. Luncheon honoring Community Video Archive’s Hall of Fame inductees David S. Howard, Carol Poteat Buchanan, Robert Kimbrough, and Jay Handelman. Tickets: $90 | 941.365.7052

Michelle Crabtree

15th Annual Children First Celebration Gala

Broker Associate, Realtor®

April 25 Michael’s On East. A magical fairy tale ball whose theme this year is

CLHMS, CRS, CIPS, GRI, PMN, ABR,

Crystal Palace in honor of the 15th Anniversary. Dinner, dancing, and silent and

SRES, TRC, RSPS, AHWD, SFR, GREEN

live auctions. Tickets $200 | 941.953.3877 | childrenfirst.net

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

Theatre Odyssey’s 10 Minute Play Festival April 30 – May 3 Asolo Repertory Theatre. Presenting winners of Theatre Odyssey’s 10 Minute Playwriting challenge. theatreodyssey.org

Upcoming Events SMHF’s Physicians Golf Tournament May 1 Laurel Oak Country Club, 9 am. Benefits the Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s Physicians Endowment for Sarasota Memorial staff education.

• 2014 Five-Star Real Estate Agent “Best in Client Satisfaction” – 7 years • Women’s Council of Realtors 2013 “Entrepreneur of the Year” & 2009 “Business Woman of the Year”

941.917.1286 | smh.com

• 2013 & 2007 SAR “Meritorious Service Award”

Ear Research Foundation’s Kentucky Derby Fundraiser

• 2013 Florida Realtor Honor Society – 7 years

May 2 Michael’s On East, 5:30 pm. Enjoy the race followed by dinner and gaming. Benefits the Ear Research Foundation. 941.365.0367 | earsinus.com

• 2010 Director, Sarasota Association of Realtors (SAR) - 3 year term

Asolo Rep’s Men Who Cook

• 2008 WCR Sarasota Chapter President

May 3 Mattison’s Bayside at the Van Wezel, 6 pm. Sarasota/Bradenton’s most well-respected will prepare a dinner filled with their favorite dishes. Tickets: $200 | 941.351.9010 ext. 4702 | asolorep.org 10th Annual Dick Vitale Gala

• 2005 WCR Sarasota “Realtor of the Year”

c 941.724.4663

May 15 Ritz-Carlton Sarasota, 7 pm. Sarasota’s Dick Vitale hosts his annual gala

michelle.crabtree@sothebysrealty.com

to raise funds for pediatric cancer research through The V Foundation for Cancer

www.crabtreehomes.com

Research. Tickets: $1,000 | 941.350.0580 or 941.374.6026 | jimmyv.org JFCS’ A Tribute to Veterans May 29 Michael’s On East, 12 pm. Honoring individuals in our community who inspire patriotism, provide service to others, and offer hope to veterans.

941.366.2224 | jfcs-cares.org scenesarasota.com

Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission.

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

April 2015

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PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR

Asolo Repertory Theatre 941.351.8000 / asolorep.org

The Matchmaker Through April 11 Wealthy hat merchant Horace Vendergelder can’t see the value of love, even as he searches for a wife. He gets more than he bargains for when he employs a matchmaker.

Both Your Houses Through April 12 Imagine an idealistic young Congressman determined to expose corruption by introducing a bill so stuffed with pork it is sure to oink itself to death.

As You Like It Through April 12 Shakespeare’s most beloved and charming comedy.

Our Betters Through April 19 Rich American women seek financially strapped British men with titles.

Sotto Voice Through April 26 Examines the resiliency of true love and the indelible power of memories.

Luck Be a Lady: The Iconic Music of Frank Loessler April 28 – May 24 New musical features some of Broadway’s finest, singing and dancing their way through the songbook of this incomparable composer.

chic mistress at a French farmhouse.

Sarasota Ballet

Oh, Mama! No, Papa! – A Comedy

941.359.0099 / sarasotaballet.org

April 29 – May 17 Eleanor (a widow) and Silas (a widower) are both, if you take their word for it, near death.

Their children, tired of their parents’ moaning, accompany them to see Dr. Bolt. Eleanor and Silas are romantically attracted. Low and behold! The aches and pains disappear.

Manatee Players 941.748.5875 / manateeplayers.com

Jesus Christ Superstar Through April 5 Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Jesus Christ Superstar is a completely sung-through piece and reflects a ’70s musical sensibility.

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change April 9 – 26 This celebration of the mating game takes on the truths and myths behind that contemporary conundrum know as “the relationship.”

Spamalot April 30 – May 17 Lovingly ripped off from the classic film comedy Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

Perlman Music Program/Suncoast 941.955.4942 / pmpsuncoast.org

Hear & Now Concert

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

Sarasota Orchestra 941.953.3434 / sarasotaorchestra.org

Pops – On Broadway April 10 – 11 Broadway stars Alli Mauzey and Kevin Kern (both from Wicked) perform selections from some of the best musicals of all time.

Great Escapes – Downton Abby April 15 – 18 The theme from Masterpiece Theater’s Downton Abbey highlights a concert featuring music from the movies Titanic and War Horse, a salute to Charlie Chaplin, and the expected Pomp and Circumstance.

Chamber Soiree – Violin April 23 Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 2 is exceedingly polished and elegant. A taste of Dohnányi’s native Hungary pervades his intense Serenade. Dahl’s Music for Brass Instruments makes for a refreshing apéritif.

April 19 Ariel Quartet at the Sarasota Opera House.

Urbanite Theatre

941.366.9000 / floridastudiotheatre.org

The Players Theatre

Chicken Shop

American Pie

941.365.2494 / theplayers.org

Florida Studio Theatre Through April 23 Featuring songs such as The Sounds of Silence, Sweet Caroline, and New York State of Mind.

The Lyons

Chapatti

April 9 – 19 The Lyons family tears each other apart with “love” in this dark and scathingly funny Broadway hit.

April 8 – May 30 Romance is a distant memory for two lonely animal-lovers living in Dublin.

The Players Follies April 11 – 12 Big Band Hits of the ‘30s and ‘40s.

Never Marry a Girl with Cold Feet

You Should Be So Lucky

Through June 7 Celebrate the greatest musical artists of vaudeville.

April 22 – May 3 A delightful Cinderella story reminiscent of the classic screwball comedies of the 1930s.

Lemon Bay Playhouse

The Ringling

941.321.1397 / urbanitetheatre.com April 10 to May 3 Hendrix is growing up. He meets Luminita – a young girl enslaved into an unbearable life. Their secret friendship grows in stolen moments in a sordid room above a fried chicken shop.

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall 941.955.7676 / vanwezel.org

Flashdance April 1 - 2

Temptations and Four Tops April 3

Memphis

941.475.6756 / lemonbayplayhouse.com

941.359.5700 / theringling.org

April 4

Don’t Dress for Dinner

Bion Tsang and Adam Nieman

Through April 5 Bernard is planning a weekend with his

April 18 – 19 Cello and piano.

St. Petersburg L’Hermitage Theatre “Russian Ballet”

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April 7 scenesarasota.com

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P L A C E

Boz Skaggs

Roberta Flack

April 9

April 22

Johnny Mathis

Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles

April 12

April 23

Diana Krall

Celtic Woman

April 16

April 24

Chris Botti

Kathy Griffin

April 17

April 26

Robert Irvine LIVE! April 18

Venice Theatre 941.488.1115 / venicestage.com

The Fox on the Fairway Through April 19 Non-ending hijinks at the Quail Valley Country Club.

Next to Normal April 9 – 16 Contemporary musical tells the moving story of a mother who struggles with bipolar disorder. It shows how far two parents will go to keep themselves sane and their family’s world intact.

Monday, Monday April 12 – 13 Monday, Monday pays tribute to one of the most harmony-rich pop groups of the ’60s: The Mamas and the Papas.

Venice Performing Arts Center 941.480.3191 / veniceperformingartscenter.com

Exsultate: Cantus Carmina Jubilate!

April 12 Songs of jubilation.

Venice Symphony: Threefold – Aleron Trio April 17 – 18 An all-Beethoven concert.

Venice Concert Band: Season Finale April 27

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

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe 941.366.1505 / wbttsrq.com

Jazz Hot Mamas Through April 4 Salutes the great women performers of the jazz era such as Ella Fitzgerald, Dinah Washington, Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, Nancy Wilson, Etta Jones, and Peggy Lee.

Spunk April 15 – May 17 Three tales of love, revenge, and redemption from the Harlem Renaissance. They are “tales of survival told in the key of the blues,” with a common theme of hope for the future.

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Social Catholic Charities’ Mardi Gras Madness It was all masks, feathers, and fun at The Francis for Catholic Charities’ Mardi Gras Madness, chaired by Teri Maze. Revelers dined and danced for a good cause. Proceeds benefit Bethesda House, which provides support services for those affected Photos by Nancy Guth

by HIV/AIDS.

Gail & Wayne Guest

Nancy Whitacre

Jan Burtnett

Terri Maze

Arline & Barry Napiecek with Dee Tornillo

The balleTs Russes A TribuTe TO VASLAV NIJINSKY

1 - 2 May 2015

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Sarasota Opera House

LES SYLPHIDES Michel Fokine

L’APRÈS-MIDI D’UN FAUNE The Afternoon of a Faun Vaslav Nijinsky

PETRUSHKA Michel Fokine

Experience The Unforgettable Legend That Was The Ballets Russes

The Sarasota Ballet Box Office

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941 . 359 . 0099 | www.SarasotaBallet.org

Ricki Bertoni in Michel Fokine’s Petrushka

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ARTS & CULTURE PRESENTED BY:

Sotto Voce

Asolo Repertory Theatre April 2 – 26 Pulitzer Prize- and Greenfield Prize-winner Nilo Cruz's exquisite new play Sotto Voce opens in the Historic Asolo Theater. Cruz captures the resiliency of true love and the power of memories in this spiritual masterpiece. German-born novelist Bemadette Kahn lost her one true love when he fled Nazi Germany aboard the S.S. St. Louis, a ship carrying 937 Jewish immigrants seeking refuge in Cuba. Cuba and the United States tragically turned the ship away, leaving the ship's passengers to return to Europe where many perished in Nazi concentration camps. Her heartbreak resurfaces when a young Jewish Cuban writer contacts the now 80-year-old reclusive, lovelorn Bemadette to research the ship's ill-fated voyage. Their relationship slowly evolves into a transcendent romance based on her memories of the boy she never stopped loving. Olivier Award-winning actress Kathryn Hunter, who was the first British female to portray professionally the title role in Shakespeare's King Lear, stars as the wistful Bemadette.

Learn more at asolorep.org.

Fan-tastic

The Ringling April 3 – June 28 The Ringling Museum of Art has a noteworthy collection of more than 250 fans, some of which are exhibited in two galleries reflecting the heritage of fans from many parts of the world.

One gallery focuses on Asian fan traditions and one on European fan traditions. They represent the highest workmanship of the eighteenth century to the early twentieth century, and reflect the changing tastes and social mores of the period. The latest colors and fashions, historical allusions, and commemorations of special occasions, are all reflected in the designs of the fans. The materials include precious metals such as gold and silver and other exquisite materials such as ivory and silk. The techniques include lacquering, painting, printing, carving, piercing and folding, all of which form a rich diversity of cultural reflections. Learn more at ringling.org/ events/fan-tastic.

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Chapatti

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Next to Normal Venice Theatre April 9 – 26

Venice Theatre presents the popular and deep musical Next to Normal in its Stage II space. The Pulitzer-Prize winning Next to Normal tells the moving story of a mother who struggles with bipolar disorder and the effect her illness has on her family. This contemporary musical is an emotional powerhouse that addresses such issues as grieving a loss, ethics in modern psychiatry, and suburban life.

With provocative lyrics and a thrilling score, Next to Normal shows how far two parents will go to keep themselves sane and their family’s world intact. Learn more at venicestage.com.

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Chapatti by Christian O'Reilly will have its regional premier in the Gompertz Theatre. Romance is a distant memory for two lonely animal-lovers living in Dublin.

When forlorn Dan and his dog Chapatti, named for a flat pancake-like bread, cross paths with the amiable Betty and her 19 cats, an unexpected spark begins a warm and gentle story about two people rediscovering the importance of human companionship. More information is available at floridastudiotheatre.org.

Conductor Andrew Lane leads the Sarasota Orchestra in a concert focused on compositions inspired by the time period and popularity of the hit TV show Downton Abbey. Britain just before and during WWI is the setting for this dramatic concert. The theme from Masterpiece Theater's Downton Abbey highlights a concert featuring music from the movies Titanic and War Horse, a salute to Charlie Chaplin, and the Pomp and Circumstance we expect. Performance times and more information are available at sarasotaorchestra.org/great-escapes/ downton-abbey. scenesarasota.com

PoetryLife Weekend Florida Studio Theatre May 1 – 2

The first weekend in May is PoetryLife weekend, which brings together nationally recognized poets, students, teachers, and community members all in one place to celebrate poetry. This weekend spans two days with a series of events to recognize students, enjoy the poetry that is part of the fabric of our lives, and inspire us all.

PoetryLife 2015 will continue to offer contests for middle and high school students and college students. Added for the first time will be a contest specifically for adults who are not students. Featured poets will be Billy Collins, former U.S. Poet Laureate, and Marie Howe, state poet of New York. More information may be found at poetrylife.org.

InspireSarasota!

The Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County May 2 InspireSarasota! is a community-wide celebration of arts and culture in Sarasota County, encompassing art, dance, drama, literature, and music. It will be youth focused this year, which is its inaugural year building on five years of success as the YouthArts Fest and adding literature to the event. InspireSarasota! will be at Five Points Park, Selby Library parking lot, and inside the Selby Library where the annual young artist show will be exhibited the week before the festival.

Performances will be presented by elementary, middle school, and high school singers, instrumentalists, dancers, poets, and actors. Highlights include jazz bands, a trumpet quartet, Broadway songs, chamber orchestra, and student performers from Sarasota Ballet, Sarasota Opera, The Players Theatre, Florida Studio Theatre, and more. Bill Harley, author of Sitting Down To Eat and The Amazing Flight of Darius Frobisher, will be the headlining literary artist and will perform on the Literary Stage as well as sign books. Learn more at www. inspiresarasota.net.

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David Dettmann & Anne Garlington

PNC WEALTH MANAGEMENT®

Dedication to Service PNC Wealth Management has been a Sarasota success story, growing to more than $1 billion in assets under management in just seven years. That success has been driven through a powerful combination of offering clients sophisticated financial services through one of the nation’s largest banks and delivering them in a highly personalized way through a local team of professionals.

Nothing demonstrates that winning formula more clearly than the concierge-style attention to individual client needs provided by PNC Wealth Management’s private banking professionals, Vice Presidents and Senior Banking Advisors David Dettmann and Anne Garlington. Private banking services encompass traditional banking services, but also carry other benefits including additional scrutiny by a professional. “I tell our clients our goal is to make your banking life easier,” Garlington said. “We are very responsive and try to be

proactive. That means if we notice they have too much money in a deposit account, and we can provide a better investment vehicle with a higher interest rate, we’ll make the recommendation. We also are fiduciaries so we always want to be sure our clients have appropriate products and services based on their needs and what is best for them.”

Along with providing traditional day-to-day banking products such as checking, savings and money market accounts, certificates of deposit, traditional credit, and consumer lending, the two banking veterans help clients navigate the new complexities in mortgage lending. “We know the lending environment has changed, and we try to streamline the process as much as we can to take the burden off our clients,” Dettmann said.

“We have a dedicated underwriting team for Wealth Management that understands the unique and complex

that cash buyers don’t have a waiting period before they can refinance.

PNC private bankers work closely with the client’s trust advisor, who assists with bill paying and day-today transactions. Along with the private banking advisor and trust advisor, each client’s five-member team includes a relationship manager, investment advisor, and wealth planner focused on developing customized banking and investment solutions.

Because the focus is on relationships, PNC professionals are known for going above and beyond to help clients. “We are available 24/7 if needed. One client called me on a Sunday evening because they lost their credit card, and I was on the phone with the credit department that night,” Garlington said. “Because we have been in the community for so long, we often are asked to refer to attorneys, accountants, and even cleaning services.” Dettmann agrees. “It goes beyond the professional,” he said. “Probably some of my best friends in town have been clients who have followed me throughout my career.”

That strong feeling of connection also extends to the community in keeping with PNC’s focus on philanthropy and community support. Dettmann has been active with a number of local organizations, including as past director of the Sarasota County Community Development Advisory Committee, Education Foundation of Sarasota County, and State College of Florida Foundation. Garlington currently serves on the boards of the Child Protection Center, Jewish Housing Council Foundation, and Cotillion Club of Sarasota County, and is active with many others. “We truly care about our community and our clients and enjoy what we do,” she says. “That makes it more enjoyable for our clients who feel a sense of family.”

financial considerations of our clients.”

The amount of documentation required to confirm that applicants have the proper cash flow and assets to pay back and collateralize the loan has increased significantly. “Because of what happened in the downturn of the real estate market, banks are scrutinizing everything a lot closer. One client came to us to help close a transaction they had been working on for two months,” Garlington said. “We try to facilitate and help minimize the frustrations for them.”

PNC keeps all of its loans in house, which has a number of advantages for clients. In addition, both Dettmann and Garlington have nearly 30 years of experience in banking as well as extensive wealth management experience. Dettmann brings commercial lending experience to the table, and Garlington also has a strong background in relationship management allowing them to use that understanding and expertise to benefit clients.

“We are an advocate for clients and know what underwriters are looking for. We think outside the box and look for ways to say yes,” Dettmann said. “We had a client who fell in love with a $3 million condo. It was a cash contract that had to close in 30 days. The client was going to take the money out of their investment account. We suggested they use the account as collateral, giving them more flexibility and time to determine how they wanted to handle financing.”

PNC private banking also does lending for second or third homes, out-of-state properties and investment properties as well as long-term, fixed interest home equity installment loans, conventional home equity loans, and unsecured loans including bridge loans.

Unlike loans through Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, PNC loans do not have a “seasoning” requirement, meaning Credit and collateral subject to approval.

The material presented in this article is of a general nature and does not constitute the provision by PNC of investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice to any person, or a recommendation to buy or sell any security or adopt any investment strategy. Opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice. The information was obtained from sources deemed reliable. Such information is not guaranteed as to its accuracy. You should seek the advice of an investment professional to tailor a financial plan to your particular needs. For more information, please contact PNC at 1-888-762-6226.

The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (“PNC”) uses the marketing names PNC Wealth Management® and Hawthorn, PNC Family Wealth® to provide investment, wealth management, and fiduciary services through its subsidiary, PNC Bank, National Association (“PNC Bank”), which is a Member FDIC, and to provide specific fiduciary and agency services through its subsidiary, PNC Delaware Trust Company. PNC also uses the marketing names PNC Institutional Asset ManagementSM, PNC Retirement SolutionsSM, Vested Interest®, and PNC Institutional Advisory SolutionsSM for the various discretionary and non-discretionary institutional investment activities conducted through PNC Bank and through PNC’s subsidiary PNC Capital Advisors, LLC, a registered investment adviser (“PNC Capital Advisors”). Standalone custody, escrow, and directed trustee services; FDIC-insured banking products and services; and lending of funds are also provided through PNC Bank. Securities products, brokerage services, and managed account advisory services are offered by PNC Investments LLC, a registered broker-dealer and a registered investment adviser and member of FINRA and SIPC. Insurance products may be provided through PNC Insurance Services, LLC, a licensed insurance agency affiliate of PNC, or through licensed insurance agencies that are not affiliated with PNC; in either case a licensed insurance affiliate may receive compensation if you choose to purchase insurance through these programs. A decision to purchase insurance will not affect the cost or availability of other products or services from PNC or its affiliates. PNC does not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice unless, with respect to tax advice, PNC Bank has entered into a written tax services agreement. PNC does not provide services in any jurisdiction in which it is not authorized to conduct business. PNC Bank is not registered as a municipal advisor under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (“Act”). Investment management and related products and services provided to a “municipal entity” or “obligated person” regarding “proceeds of municipal securities” (as such terms are defined in the Act) will be provided by PNC Capital Advisors.

“PNC Wealth Management,” “Hawthorn, PNC Family Wealth,” and “Vested Interest” are registered trademarks and “PNC Institutional Asset Management,” “PNC Retirement Solutions,” and “PNC Institutional Advisory Solutions” are service marks of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. Investments: Not FDIC Insured. No Bank Guarantee. May Lose Value.

Insurance: Not FDIC Insured. No Bank or Federal Government Guarantee. Not a Deposit. May Lose Value.

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Sarasota, FL 36236

941.363.5060

PNC.com/WealthManagement

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Intelligent Giving Barbara Brizdle

Story by Ryan G. Van Cleave | Photo by Jessica Tasetano Sitting in the high-armed salon chairs of the Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s Philanthropy Center, Barbara Brizdle sparks with enthusiasm when asked about philanthropy. And for her, speaking about philanthropy necessarily means talking about her late husband, Larry Schoenberg, a man she admits to being a major influence in her own philanthropic life.

Schoenberg’s philanthropy largely stemmed from his desire to collect — and most importantly, make available to others — medieval and early modern manuscripts. Brizdle attributes her husband’s love for manuscripts to a New York Public Library field trip. “His father, a high school principal, got him into the special collections area where he was able to open up and touch original materials that hadn’t been touched before,” says Brizdle. That experience “resonated with him” and from that point on, he was interested in creating powerful educational experiences like that for others.

“When we got married in 1990, Larry had a sizable collection of 60 manuscripts,” explains Brizdle. “During the first decade of our marriage, he acquired another 150.” Her own interest in the growing collection emerged when she decided to create a catalog of his collection for his 75th birthday. Right around the time they married, he had changed his focus from buying the aesthetic or beautiful manuscripts to buying ones for the value of their content. So cataloging the works by subject — an unusual idea they’d seen a Geneva collector do — was the choice they went with.

When Schoenberg became more and more incapacitated after a stroke, Brizdle continued to manage and grow the collection herself. Her first purchase in 2012 was a 1524 text by a Jewish geographer, which had the first mention of the New World in a Hebrew language manuscript.

One of Schoenberg’s major desires was for his philanthropy to make a difference. To that end, his collection was donated to his alma mater, the University of Pennsylvania. Since he’d already been a crucial figure in creating The Schoenberg Center for Electronic Text & Image and co-founding the annual Schoenberg Symposium on Manuscript Studies in the Digital Age, Penn was ready to combine technology with these ancient manuscripts to create a new research center — The Schoenberg Institute for Manuscript Studies. “Now they even have plans to create a new minor in digital humanities,” reports Brizdle. And that’s the type of outcome her husband would greatly appreciate.

Their philanthropy, though, extends back to our community, too, via their major gift to the new Ringling College Library, which will feature the Brizdle-Schoenberg Center for Special Collections. Deeply interested in supporting her community, Brizdle felt the Ringling Library was a perfect match of opportunity and philanthropic goals. She is thankful to the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, which found a way to facilitate this gift so the situation was a clear win/win for everyone. scenesarasota.com

In a true collaborative spirit, Ringling College of Art and Design and the University of Pennsylvania Libraries recently mounted an exhibit entitled, A Legacy Inscribed: Manuscripts from The Lawrence J. Schoenberg Collection, on display this past January and February at Ringling College’s Selby Gallery. It featured works such as a fifth century B.C. cuneiform debt record, a Latin translation of Aristotle’s writings on metaphysics, and an Arabic translation of Euclid’s treatise on mathematics and geometry.

Brizdle does far more than just work with libraries and books however. She’s been active with Jewish Family & Children’s Service “forever” she confesses with a laugh. “These days, I’m a Director Emeritus, which means I have absolutely no vote. But I have history [with them] and a lot of experience, and I find that I’m able to make a difference.” And when a program like Quenching the Father’s Thirst: Developing a Dad comes along — where 300 dads per year are getting crucial training to help them understand their role as father — she’s very eager to help. “What a fabulous difference this program makes in the lives of the fathers, their children, and that of the significant others, too,” she says.

Plus she’s got a soft spot in her heart for dogs. The unconditional love that only dogs can offer is helping her through the mourning process, and it’s probably no surprise that even before this interview began, she did a show-and-tell with dog photos on her phone. She’s also planning on taking part in the Pedal for Pups Ride and Run at Nathan Benderson Park this March.

The truth is, though, that she’s striving to forge her own philanthropic identity. While much of her past philanthropy was defined by her husband’s vision, these days she’s learning to think about philanthropy in terms of herself and her own values. The Gulf Coast Community Foundation is helping her concretize those wishes into realities. “They’re such a proactive organization,” she adds. “They don’t wait for donors to come to them with ideas. They invest their time and energy to understand the needs of the community and together with their donors, they transform our region through bold and proactive philanthropy.”

One thing is certain. Brizdle loves Sarasota, and anything she chooses to support will have a direct impact on the community. “This is a special, special place,” says this childhood tomboy and lifelong fitness buff about her home of 20-plus years now. And if her past successes are any indication of her future, she’ll continue to make the type of major differences that her husband — her hero — would be proud of.

Those who would like to know more about Gulf Coast Community Foundation or its philanthropy efforts in the region may visit GulfCoastCF.org or call 941.486.4600.

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Accounting for Good Taste Pat Kenny

Story by Steven J. Smith | Photo by Jessica Tasetano Patrick Kenny’s love of ballet was forged many years ago with the help of his wife Ann, who took him to a production of Sleeping Beauty. Since then he has used his talents as a certified public accountant to enhance the financial support of a number of ballet companies including the Sarasota Ballet, where he currently is a member of its board of directors.

“That performance of Sleeping Beauty took place in St. Louis, where we were living at the time,” Kenny said. “It was supposed to feature Margot Fonteyn and Rudolf Nureyev, but the night we went the alternative cast was dancing. It didn’t matter.

I loved it.” Later while living in Paris, Kenny said they took a magical excursion to the Paris Opera Ballet.

“We saw them perform outdoors at the Tuileries Gardens, which was absolutely spectacular,” he said. “From there we moved to the Netherlands for six years and were regular season subscribers to the dance theater there. I got to love the ballet even more there.

Then our girls started getting involved. We have two daughters.

One was born in Paris, the other was born in The Hague.”

The family moved to Hartford, Connecticut, in 1981, where Kenny secured a partnership in an accounting firm. One day the partner in charge of the office suggested he get involved in some civic activity. The Hartford Ballet was a natural fit. “Of course once they learned I was an accountant, they made me Treasurer,” he laughed. “I later became President of the ballet.”

In 2009, he and Ann started migrating to Sarasota to escape the cold Connecticut winters and soon began subscribing and contributing to the Sarasota Ballet. “We absolutely love it,” he said.

“And its growth over the last five years has been phenomenal.

I’m on the finance committee, as you might expect. That happened because Ann and I were talking to Mary Anne Servian, the ballet’s Managing Director, during one of the intermissions.

I said to her, ‘If you need some help, I’m an accountant and I’d be glad to be of service.’ She said, ‘We can always use someone with your talent.’ A few months later, they put me on the board as a member of the finance committee.”

Kenny added one of the challenges he has encountered as a member of the board is finding ways to compensate the dancscenesarasota.com

ers appropriately. “How do you reward them for the phenomenal things that they do within the ballet’s constrictive budget?” he said. “That’s been a big challenge, although I would give Mary Anne 200 percent credit for what she’s done in order to raise money for the ballet. Also, unlike a lot of executive directors of arts organizations, she brings a financial knowledge to the table. She understands the numbers and how they operate, how they work. My job as a director is not only to give money, but also to help raise money. But she and her staff have done a terrific job as well.”

Fundraising efforts include calling heads of prominent corporations and members of Sarasota society and inviting them to experience the ballet. “You bring them to a gala and get them interested in supporting this area of the arts,” Kenny said. “It’s mostly one-on-one contact. Building relationships is what we like to do, and through those relationships, individuals invest and become part of our family. The ballet is gaining a reputation that extends beyond the city limits, which is phenomenal.”

Kenny added he freely commits money and time to the cause, but to him no one brings more to the Sarasota Ballet than its most cherished asset: the dancers. “They’re employed for 35 weeks a year, dedicating the prime of their lives to this wonderful craft,” he said. “They work extremely hard, and they’re not getting paid like Wall Street bankers. So no matter what I contribute as a board member or a donor, those dancers are the biggest contributors to the ballet.”

As for the future of the ballet, Kenny said it is important to continue growing its facilities. He would like to see it find a larger home for performances than its current place at the FSU Center for Performing Arts, which the Sarasota Ballet shares with the Asolo Repertory Theatre. “The Mertz Theatre at the FSU Center is a lovely place, but it has a comparatively small audience capacity,” he said. “They’d love to have a bigger place to perform on a regular basis and more studios for rehearsals and classes. Those have been talked about both publicly and at the board meetings for the last year or two and we hope to be expanding that in the near future.” Information about Sarasota Ballet events and performances is available online at sarasotaballet.org.

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Social Goodwill Manasota’s Mardi Gras Gala Beads, beads, more beads, loads of auction items, and New Orleans style music and comestibles entertained guests at the 10th Annual Goodwill Manasota Mardi Gras Gala. More than 350 guests attended the event chaired by WCTQ’s Maverick and Lulu. Photos by Nancy Guth

John Laurie & Dana Bennett Michelle Brault

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Fighting the

Good Fight Dick Vitale Gala Celebrates

10 Years of Giving Families

HOPE Through Pediatric Cancer Research

By Sue Cullen From the enthusiastic delivery of his catch phrase “Awesome, baby!” to his namesake gala in support of pediatric cancer research, famed basketball sportscaster Dick Vitale — known by fans as Dickie V — only does things one way, “big time.” That’s what attendees at the annual Dick Vitale Gala benefitting The V Foundation for Cancer Research have discovered year after year.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary on May 15, the Dick Vitale Gala is one of THE social events of the season, something Vitale says he didn’t anticipate when he launched his first gala a decade ago. “I had no idea we’d be doing it this long. What’s kept me in it is my love and admiration for the many parents I’ve met over the years.

I just talked to a dad a few days ago who lost his child five days before. It tears your heart out. Parents should never have to put their child to rest,” he says. “Every year, the gala is dedicated to 10 young people who are no longer with us because of pediatric cancer. Those young children keep motivating me to raise as many dollars as I can using celebrity in a positive way.”

And celebrities from the world of sports do come out — usually 80 plus — for the event. This year’s gala will honor three coaching greats for their humanitarian efforts: Jim Boeheim, head basketball coach for Syracuse University; Jimbo Fisher, head football coach for Florida State University; and, Lovie Smith, head coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

“No child should have to do chemo or radiation,” Vitale says. “They should be out playing.” That’s a sentiment that clearly has resonated with area residents who turn out 800 strong for the $1,000 a plate gala, which will be held this year on May 15, at 6:30 p.m. at the Ritz-Carlton. And since Vitale only does things big time, activities warm up with an exclusive celebrity meet-and-greet reception for gala sponsors, and there is an after-party with headline entertainment, which this year will be the genre-crossing, jazz/rock band Blood, Sweat and Tears. Also, each year a new Mercedes-Benz is raffled off. This year it’s a sporty white convertible E400A. Raffle tickets are available for a $100 minimum donation at jimmyv.org/vitaleraffle2015, and sales are limited to 1,500 tickets.

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Left to right: Jake Taraska, Erin Kisielewski, Kyle Peters, Dick Vitale, Berkley Kemper, Jack Hoffman, Skyler Dunn, Austin Burnett & Tatum Parker

Last year’s gala brought in more than $2.1 million, and over the years has raised a total of $12.7 million.

Those dollars are earmarked for pediatric cancer research through The V Foundation, established in honor of college basketball coach, and Vitale’s friend, Jim Valvano, who succumbed to cancer at age 47. Those kinds of results don’t just happen. Vitale’s wife, Lorraine, and his children also have devoted countless hours to making the gala such a success year after year.

“The V Foundation has raised over $130 million for cancer research, and every dollar raised for research goes to research. An endowment pays for all administrative costs,” Vitale says. “I’ve been told only 4 percent of every dollar raised for cancer research goes to pediatrics. I salute those who support research for colon, prostate, breast and lung cancer, but pediatric cancer research is also important. Every dollar I raise goes specifically to pediatrics.”

Funds raised have been used in support of pediatric cancer initiatives at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, and Shands Hospital in Gainesville.

Talking about this cause that is so close to his heart has Vitale’s thoughts turning to Valvano, who received the Arthur Ashe Courage and Humanitarian Award at the first ESPY Awards. “In his speech, he said everyone should do three things every day. Number one is be moved to tears. Number two is be moved to laughter, and number three is be moved to thought,” Vitale says. “On the night of our Gala, people will be moved to tears, to laughter, and to thought in memory of Jimmy V.” For more information about the gala, visit Vitale’s website, DickVitaleOnline.com or call Mary Kenealy Events, 941.350.0580. More information about The V Foundation is online at JimmyV.org.

Win a Mercedes-Benz E400A convertible.

Enter at jimmyv.org/vitaleraffle2015.

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Bass Harbor Lighthouse, Acadia National Park, Maine

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PUT A

Pin

IN IT

Locals Share Divine Destinations

By Sue Engelhart

Nothing says the good life like whiling away the hours exploring glorious sights unseen in the great US of A or abroad.

Of course, we already live in a beautiful locale whose many attractions draw hosts of vacationers. That can make it a little hard to leave for those lucky enough to live here, but still. The world beckons, and we heed the call. Whether it’s ancient cities, the beauty and wonder of nature, exotic locales, the pampering luxury of a five-star resort or all of the above that fuels your vacation dreams, here are a few favorite ways Sarasotans spend their time away from our corner of paradise.

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Belmond Hotel Splendido Photo courtesy of Orient-Express Hotels Ltd.

Victoria Falls, Africa

Amore When she’s not making life easier for area seniors and their families, Judy Cuppy, founder of Senior Home Companions, loves to go cruising up a picturesque river or on the high seas. One of Cuppy’s favorite ports is the picturesque Portofino, Italy, whose pastel beauty, reflected in the clear blue Mediterranean Sea, has drawn her back four times. “If I would pick a destination to spend a week, it would be at the Splendido in Portofino,” Cuppy says. “Walking up to it is absolutely beautiful. It is a very quaint hotel. I love sitting outside overlooking the town and water. It’s magical.” Other vacation favorites have included an Asia cruise with stops in Viet Nam, Singapore, Thailand, and Hong Kong. This year’s destination is Africa where she is looking forward to seeing Victoria Falls and Cape Town, and being on safari.

Belmond Hotel Splendido Photo courtesy of Orient-Express Hotels Ltd.

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Maine Event The beauties of coastal Maine have drawn Cliff Walters, Principal at the law offices of Blalock Walters, and his family back again and again over the years. “We have always loved Acadia National Park in Maine. When our children were younger, we would stay just outside the park and ride our rental bikes into the park for the day. The carriage trails are numerous and the hiking trails are more challenging than you would expect, but most have tremendous views; espe-

cially of the ocean,” Walters says. “As our family matured, sea kayaking and exploring the lobster pounds were added to the excitement. And then we found whale watching, boat making, sailing, and other activities adjacent to the park.”

Acadia National Park is located on Mount Desert Island, and Walters says they also enjoy other area attractions like golfing and the vibrant shopping and restaurant scene in nearby Bar Harbor.

Champlain Mountain photo courtesy of Maine Office of Tourism

Photo courtesy of Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance

Family Fun on the Finger Lakes As summertime rolls around philanthropist Bunny Skirboll is lured away from Sarasota’s charms by the call of the great Northeast. “During the summer, we look forward to vacationing with our children and grandchildren back in upstate Rochester, New York’s beautiful Finger Lakes area,” Skirboll says.

In addition to enjoying the region’s water sports and abundant natural beauty, it also is in proximity to other favorite haunts. “We take family getaways to Niagara on the Lake in Canada and visit friends in the Berkshires,” she says. “We also visit New York City and get our Broadway theater fix.”

California’s Napa Valley wine country is another well-liked destination, and she says Israel is their favorite country to visit. “The country is close to the size of New Jersey, and in two weeks you can see a lot,” Skirboll says. “There are many beautiful resort areas. Of course, there is the ocean, and there is nothing like being in Jerusalem.” scenesarasota.com

Castello di Amorosa Winery Great Hall in Napa Valley

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Amazing Adventure Being a Broker/Associate with Coldwell Banker, Lynne Koy certainly is well versed in Sarasota’s many virtues, but when she travels, it’s adventure she craves. One of Koy’s most memorable trips was to see the mountain gorillas in Uganda. Traveling with a guide, she made her way to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, staying at the beautifully scenic Volcanoes Bwindi eco-lodge. After trekking two hours into the jungle, they came across a family of two “silverback” males, eight mature females, and about a dozen toddlers and babies. ”I was close enough to look into the eyes of one of the silverbacks. I saw him pick up one of the babies, cradle him/her in his arms, and kiss that baby as we would one of our own,” she says. “To be in the presence of these animals, so much the same as we are, was something that I will never forget. We were only allowed to be there for one hour, but it is perhaps the most memorable hour of my life.”

Lynne Koy and a mountain gorilla in Uganda

Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge photos courtesy of Volcanoes Safaris

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A

On the

List

Fashion Obsession: TINA STEPHENS

W

By Sue Cullen | Fashion photos by John Revisky

hat do Kourtney Kardashian, Molly Sims, and Naomi Watts know about looking great that we don’t?

scenesarasota.com

Apparently, it’s a clothing line launched

The company’s namesake, who despite pre-

just five years ago by an area woman that

ferring to be known by just one name, reso-

one avidly-followed style website has

nates far more to the “every woman” in all of

called “The $58 Cult Buy Fashion People

us than to celebrity one-named divas like Be-

Are Secretly Obsessed With.” This ob-

yoncé, Fergie, and J.Lo. “I’ve done a bunch

session, which has been spied in fashion

of things in my life. I’ve worked outside the

mega-magazines like Vogue and Harp-

home, took time off to raise children, and

er’s Bazaar, is a line of one-size-fits-most,

as my kids got older, I had a need for cloth-

easy-wearing, body-skimming luxury ba-

ing to wear from studio to street, day to play,

sics under the Tees by Tina brand.

work to workout,” says Tina (pictured left).

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“That need was not being filled in the marketplace. We are all so busy trying to take care of ourselves, our kids, and parents. Who has the time for switching things around? I learned a lot of other women are in the same boat I was.”

Since then, Tees by Tina has grown exponentially and now its fashions are available at more than 1,000 retailers. Tina also has launched a new line of clothing and boutique retail stores under the Tina Stephens brand, including a store in the new Mall at University Town Center. Another Tina Stephens boutique is in Charleston, S.C., and she has just opened two boutiques on Long Island, in East Hampton and Southampton.

“I’m so excited about Tees by Tina and Tina Stephens looking at where we started and where we are now. Tees by Tina has grown like crazy.

Five years ago, I started taking boxes of samples around to stores. A couple of people believed in me, and that’s how it got started,” she says.

“Our clothing is about how to look good without trying too hard. We are every-woman. We don’t cater to teenyboppers, but we go through the stages in life from the cutie patootie who is

are fantastic because they help camouflage fig-

just starting out in the working world to grand-

ure flaws. It’s the way we knit our products that

mothers. I think we get to a point in life where

gives them an amazing hand feel and fabulous

we’re not willing to be uncomfortable just to

stretch that smooths you out rather than squeez-

look good.”

ing you in.” The line also includes Sorbtek capris that come in fun colors and prints and whose

Today, Tees by Tina has gone far beyond just a

moisture-wicking properties are definitely ap-

really comfortable, figure flattering line of seam-

preciated in Florida.

less knit tees to include dresses, skirts, mock neck turtles, leggings and more, picking up a ce-

And the accolades about the clothing have kept

lebrity following as it has grown. In addition to

pouring in. Lucky magazine called Tees by Tina

Kardashian, Sims, and Watts, paparazzi snapped

leggings “the best leggings ever”. The leggings,

a very pregnant Christina Aguilera at her baby

in addition to being comfortable and opaque

shower in a chic Tees by Tina dress demonstrat-

never get “elephant knee” and you won’t find

ing its claim that one size really does fit most.

yourself backing in a corner to hike them up

“Tees by Tina clothing looks small but expands

either, Tina says. More praise came recently

in a nice and flattering way. We really do fit such

from uber-popular refinery29.com, which said

a nice variety of sizes. You don’t have to be tee-

those who are not in the know about Tees by

ny tiny to look good,” Tina says. “Our textures

Tina might move on past its unassuming name.

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Fashion Photos Photography Photo Assistant HaiR Makeup MODEL NAILS

scenesarasota.com

John Revisky Alyssa Woods Ana Molinari Dayanna Palomino Crystal Rischar Star Gautier

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“Completely anonymous-looking but instantly recognizable to those who know, the most exclusive thing you could be wearing right now isn’t coming from Céline or Chanel. It’s from a brand that you might have (mistakenly) dismissed if you stumbled across it in the first place: Tees by Tina,” Connie Wang wrote in a January 29 article titled “The $58 Cult Buy Fashion People Are Secretly Obsessed With.” Tina has seen major fashion publications pair her layering pieces with loftily priced couture items tipping the cash registers at $25,000. “Our mock neck was in Vogue paired with a five figure skirt,” she says. “Having our luxury basics paired with clothes by Valentino and Céline by these fashion editors is incredible. It shows that we can look good without having to pay couture prices.”

While Tees by Tina clothing is seamless and one-size-fits-most, the Tina Stephens line is available in specific sizes, and has a resort casual feel with flowing lines and relaxed easy fit. It’s the place to find wardrobe pieces for layering such as tunics and drawstring pants. “In the Tina Stephens line we use fabrics with beautiful drape and great coverage, but still breathable,” she says. “Our tunics are long enough to wear with leggings and still have all the essentials covered.”

Of course, the Tina Stephens boutiques carry the entire line of Tees by Tina clothing. “If someone is looking for something to wear and be comfortable yet also look really good, we are the place to come,” Tina says. “When I design clothing, my goal is for it to be that go-to item women reach for again and again. I don’t want it hanging there waiting for the perfect date night or until you lose five pounds.” The clothing also is designed to be extremely versatile. For instance, the Tees by Tina ballet sleeve top is reversible so a woman can wear the high top in the front and the scoop in back under a jacket for day, and switch it around for a romantic night out. The tribal maxi skirt can also be pulled up and worn as a strapless dress with some strappy sandals, but is equally at home in colder climes paired with tights, boots, and a chunky sweater. “Our fashions are so perfect for travel. You can take them to just about any climate, and almost everything can be scrunched into a ball,” she says.

“I have actually taken 22 pieces in a carry on bag.”

For those who haven’t tried the clothing yet, Tina encourages stopping by the Tina Stephens store at the Mall at University Town Center and having the wardrobe consultants (which is the title she has given all sales associates) recommend some styles to try. “We’re not pushy. We want everyone to feel welcome.

It’s pretty common for a woman to tell us her sister or best friend told her that she ‘had to’ come in and see what we are all about.” she says. “Whether they buy anything or not, we want them to leave feeling better than when they walked in.” scenesarasota.com

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Social Asolo Rep’s 2015 Annual Gala Asolo Rep’s 2015 Annual Gala: An Evening Live at The Sands transformed the ballroom into the 1960s vintage Vegas hot spot, the Copa Room at The Sands hotel. The event was chaired by Debbie Haspel, Jennifer Rust, Jenifer Schembri, and Janet Walter. The evening’s entertainment featured Vegas’ Rat Pack Tribute Show and surprise entertainment included Grammy®-nominated entertainer Deborah Cox, who will star in the theatre’s world premiere of the musical Josephine.

Photos by John Revisky

Jen Rust, Debbie Haspel & Jenifer Schembri

Michele Penn & David Minor

Sean & Melanie Natarajan

“Poetic...whimsical, sensual” — Miami Herald

PLAYING APRIL 2- 26 IN THE HISTORIC ASOLO THEATER

WORLD CLASS THEATRE • MADE IN SARASOTA

ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE

Michael Edwards & John Koso

Michelle & Keith Senglaub

PREVIEWS MARCH 31 & APRIL 1

SOTTO VOCE

By NILO CRUZ

By Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright NILO CRUZ Directed By MELISSA KIEVMAN

Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Nilo Cruz examines the resiliency of love and the indelible power of memories in this exquisite new play centered on the 1939 voyage of the S.S. St. Louis, which left Nazi Germany for Cuba filled with Jewish refugees.

941.351.8000 | ASOLOREP.ORG Noah Racey in Noah Racey’s Pulse. Photo by Corey Meade.

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JOHN REVISKY

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Magically beautiful, jewel encrusted fish handmade of 14 karat yellow gold with pink and blue sapphires. $28,000 McCarver & Moser | St. Armands Circle

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18 karat white gold bracelet with a sprinkling of 22 fancy-colored natural diamonds totaling 6.09 carats and 11.36 carats of pavĂŠ set diamonds. $106,700

18 karat white gold ring with 2.88 carats of fancy colored natural diamonds and 1.82 carats of pavĂŠ set diamonds. $23,400 McCarver & Moser | St. Armands Circle

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5.34 carat center diamond ring with side baguettes set in platinum. $115,000

Diamond and emerald platinum bracelet has 13.33 carats of emeralds and 11.42 carats of diamonds. $200,000 Queen’s Wreath Jewels | St. Armands Circle

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18 karat rose and white gold bracelet with 32.75 carats of rose cut diamonds. $65,000

Platinum and 18 karat rose gold diamond ring featuring a .90 carat natural pink diamond and two epaulette cut side diamonds, .86 carats total weight. $75,500 McCarver & Moser | St. Armands Circle

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One of a kind 18 karat yellow gold hand-crafted necklace with aquamarine, morganite, and green beryl pear-shaped, brilliant cut stones with a total 483.52 carats. $27,000 Coffrin Jewelers | Sarasota

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A beautiful bevy of princess, emerald, and fancy cut diamonds cradled in settings of white gold. $15,000 - $40,000 MK Designs | Sarasota

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Circa 1980s flexible bangle of fine Italian 18 karat gold set with oval faceted, pigeon blood rubies and 117 round full cut diamonds (about 5 carats). $23,500

Bezel set 9.5 carat oval cabochon ruby with 17 round full-cut bead set diamonds in 18 karat gold and platinum. $18,200 Crissy Galleries | Sarasota

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Lux

W

Toys

By Rem Fields

hite tents peppered Gulfstream Avenue last month for Sarasota’s inaugural Luxury Living and Lifestyle Expo. A red carpet, complete with velvet stanchions, guided show goers down a path dedicated to the comforts of lavishness. There were the usual amenities: European sports cars begging to be fawned over, oversized boats intended to bring out one’s inner-admiral, interior designers hoping to find their next million-dollar canvas, and, of course, a wine tasting to loosen lips and wallets. While these bastions of luxuriousness are spectacles in their own right, the Expo, which was organized by Paragon Fine Arts Festivals, also featured less-conventional commodities.

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T

he most audacious booth contained a trio of innovative vehicles presented by Nautical Ventures Marine Superstore of Dania Beach, Florida. A neon-orange hovercraft, aptly named the Renegade IQ, is poised to give traditional boating a run for its money. The

craft is the first of its kind to be geared toward consumers. Its carbon-fiber body and Kevlar hull ensure that the Renegade is lightweight and low-maintenance. The craft seats two people and cruises over the water at 30 mph, consuming about 1.5 gallons per hour at that speed, and can accelerate up to 50 mph.

Nautical Ventures exhibited ground transportation alternatives as well. Matt Stewart, who represented the company at the Expo, lauded his job as a seller of “fun toys.� The i-Go Robot is a self-balancing, Segway-esque, two wheeler with a 16- to 18-mile range per battery cycle. Those seeking a less-vertical vehicle were encouraged to ride into the future upon the Gocycle, an electric bicycle created by a former designer for McLaren cars. The e-bike is efficient and portable; it collapses and fits into a duffel bag for easy transport and storage. Technology begets luxury, a lesson that proves to be increasingly relevant today.

Hovercrafts and electric vehicles aside, there were plenty of options for those who favor a rustic aesthetic over the sleekness of cutting-edge minimalism. The space shared by Sarasota’s 390 Design and Rustic Rooster provided home furnishings that evoked both simplicity and ruggedness, much like an intentionally distressed pair of jeans. 390 Design specializes in fabricating custom furniture using reclaimed materials. Their showcase exemplified a departure from ritziness that did not diminish the sense of grandeur behind their work. Not all clients are looking for a picnic table made from bowling alley lanes priced at $7,000, but 390 is well aware of this.

McLaren 675 LT

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Renegade IQ hovercraft

They create unique pieces rather than duplicating designs

collages that serve as the backdrops for his repurposed

for mass production.

instruments and knickknacks. In Campbell’s hands, any-

Rustic Rooster’s Julie Lautermilch was the other half of the Expo’s bucolic duo. Her studio refinishes antiques and Eu-

thing can be made beautiful and, in turn, everything can be cherished.

ropean furnishings using a decorative material called “chalk

On the monochromatic side of the color spectrum, Estero,

paint.” The colorful substance applies as a liquid but dries

Florida, based Teresa Moorehouse’s metallic sculptures are

somewhat powdery, living up to its chalky moniker. Lau-

the culmination of her passion for visual storytelling. She

termilch then brushes off some of the paint to further ac-

carves her images out of clay to obtain a mold used for cold

centuate any given project before sealing it with a final

casting a resin derived from bronze powders. The final piec-

coat of transparent wax. She mentioned that a lot of her

es are intricately and deliberately detailed to evoke an emo-

business comes from newly relocated Floridians who hope

tional connection to the narratives from which she draws

to transform their dark, lacquered furniture into something

inspiration. Moorehouse operates within the often-evasive

more beach-y. Lautermilch is gifted with the skill to take

middle ground where technique and message overlap; her

an already extravagant item and revitalize it to its owner’s

emphasis on one does not weaken the other. Her work yields

specifications. Her work ends up fitting in its element like a

perhaps the ultimate in conversation pieces, the result of a

tailored suit.

remarkable process that renders a story very much worth

The Luxury Living and Lifestyle Expo would not have been complete without the inclusion of artists whose inspired endeavors make for one-of-a-kind décor. Of the sculp-

retelling. Moorehouse goes to great lengths to educate prospective buyers, especially those who appreciate spiritually driven messages.

tors, photographers, jewelers, and painters present, Leroy

Whether one’s preferences gravitated toward futuristic

Campbell’s structural installations were by far the loudest

or retro sensibilities, there was plenty to appreciate along

– he combines broken and battered musical instruments

Gulfstream Avenue. Including such a wide variety of mer-

with equally worn-out household items to construct jazzy

chandise and services allowed the event to expand beyond

folk art. His technique is augmented by exaggerated fig-

the scope of a typical fine-arts festival, an occurrence that

ure paintings and newspaper clippings, which form vibrant

pleased purveyors and patrons alike.

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Name: Jackie Home: Sarasota, Florida Age: 8 weeks Education: Preschooler, Southeastern Guide Dogs Profession: Guide dog in training Favorite Activity: Belly rubs followed by a good nap Hobbies: Making fuzzy things squeak Attributes: Curiosity, friendliness Destiny: Transforming “can’t” into “can”

Today, he’s one-part clown and one-part blood pressure medicine. But someday, he’ll be mobility, safety and companionship for a person who could really use his support—all at no charge to them. It’s not that dogs like him love us. It’s that we’re lucky enough to love dogs like him. He’s a gift—named Jackie. A gift made possible by donations of $25, $50, $100 or more from people like you.

Make your secure donation online today at GuideDogs.org.

Social Sarasota Exotic Car Fest Jet Port Reception A festive group partied like it was 1989 to kick off this year’s Sarasota Exotic Car Fest getting into the spirit of the weekend’s Miami Vice theme at the Friday night Jet Port Reception. Scene magazine was a sponsor.

The weekend events benefit United Cerebral Palsy and Gary and Marilee Roberts were the chairs. Photos by Nancy Guth

Jessica & Mario Biondo Donna & Dan Brierton

Marilee Roberts & Les Leech, Jr.

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Brenda & Chris Whaley

Steve Anderson, Bridget Spiess & Dr. Volodymyr Smeryk

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A to Service to Community Awards

Honoring individuals in our community who Inspire Patriotism Provide Service to Others Offer Hope to Veterans Friday, May 29, 2015 12:00 p.m. • Michael’s On East For tickets contact Monica Caldwell, JFCS Development Director at 941-366-2224, ext. 142 mcaldwell@JFCS-Cares.org Georgie Alfano-Cronk SP4, US Army Professionals Assisting Military Families & Friends

Daniel Kunkel 1st Lt. Infantry, US Army Sarasota Patriotic Observance Committee

Linda L. Gould COL, US Army (Retired) The Patterson Foundation

Ted Smith Cpl. E-4, US Marine Corps Sarasota County Veterans Commission

A benefit luncheon to support programs & services provided to local veterans through the Operation Military Assistance Program Media Sponsor:

Together

Scene

Marriage Vow Renewal Flying High Nik + Erendira Wallenda Cameras were rolling and lights were flashing and it wasn’t because Sarasota’s Nik Wallenda was walking a tightrope over something outrageously dangerous. This time he was walking his gorgeous wife, Erendira, down the aisle as this famous couple renewed their marriage vows to celebrate their 15th wedding anniversary.

And just as you would expect from such a celebrated couple, there were lots of notables in the crowd of well-wishers including famed preacher and televangelist Joel Osteen who performed the ceremony. TLC (The Learning Channel) filmed the festivities, which will air on TLC’s “Say Yes to the Dress: The Big Day” on May 8.

You’d have to be totally out of touch if you didn’t see or at least hear about Nik’s daredevil walk over the Grand Canyon in 2013 and his Skycraper Walk in Chicago last year. Both delivered blockbuster ratings for the Discovery Channel and brought Nik even more worldwide acclaim. Erendira is an eighth generation acrobat and circus performer who has been performing since she was nine. Nik proposed to Erendira on one knee in 1999 in front of 25,000 people while on top of a tightrope – of course! They were married one week later. The couple has three children.

Wedding Planner: NK Weddings | Photographer: Cliff Roles | Cake: The Cake Zone | Venue: Ca’ d’Zan at The Ringling

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Weddings

A Magical Day Liz Giroux + Josh Heard The day after a mutual friend arranged a blind date for Liz and Josh, Liz called her mother and told her she thought she'd met the man she was going to marry. Two years to the day later, she did.

Liz grew up in Bradenton and graduated from Saint Stephen's Episcopal School. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications from Florida State University. She is a manager in social media marketing at AT&T in Atlanta. She is the daughter of Jayne and Pete Giroux of Bradenton.

Josh is from Brooks, Georgia, and graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in political science. A former lobbyist for Georgia Governor Sonny Purdue, Josh is a marketing analyst at AT&T. Josh is the son of Cyndee Heard and the late Mark Heard.

The powerboat races in downtown Bradenton pre-empted the couples' plan to host their reception at the South Florida Museum, but the change in venue to the Manatee River Garden Club was a sentimental choice as it is located just a few blocks from Liz's childhood home. Wedding coordinator Jenn Sayko and Anna Pohl of Linens by the Sea utilized this wonderful old Florida setting to its fullest, creating a magical atmosphere for the wedding and reception.

Personal touches were woven throughout the evening. From the beautiful cedar arch hand crafted by Josh for the ceremony, to hundreds of mason jars with candles hung from the oaks over the dining tables on the lawn, no detail was spared. The bride’s mother did the flowers along with a group of friends nicknamed "the flower committee," because of the many years they have done flowers together for special occasions.

Guests were greeted with Bellinis during the cocktail hour and during dinner, feasted at food stations that included Bourbon Braised Short Ribs with cheese greets, gourmet mac and cheese, and fresh skewers grilled to order. A scrumptious dessert buffet featured cake truffles and cupcakes. Following the reception, guests were shuttled via SRQ Trolley to join the post powerboat race festivities. The couple honeymooned in Napa and Kauai.

Photography: Cat Pennenga; Music: Fitz Otis; Wedding Planner: Jenn Sayko; Linens: Linens by the Sea; Cake: Hometown Desserts

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Engagements A Fairytale Union Shelby Kelly + Tyler Prince When Shelby Ann Kelly and Tyler Steven Prince met, they knew they had each found their prince and princess. And when they marry in March 2016 at Selby Gardens, Shelby will become Shelby Prince. So there you have it. Shelby found her “prince” – a fairytale come true.

Tyler, who is from Riverview, Florida, and Shelby, a Sarasotan, met through mutual friends. They both attended the University of North Florida and Shelby, who works at First Presbyterian Preschool, is also pursuing a major in Early Childhood Education at USF. Tyler works at the Yacht Center in Sarasota. Shelby and Tyler love outdoor sports and enjoy surfing, sailing and kayaking together. It was therefore fitting that Tyler proposed on Cocoa Beach while on a surfing weekend and surprised Shelby when he dropped to one knee and proposed. Tyler’s mother is Tracy Prince from Riverview and his father is Don Prince from Atlanta. Shelby’s parents are Bill and Pam Kelly of Sarasota.

Sarasota Brides

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

scenesarasota.com

PLAN AHEAD! Become a subscriber and you’ll save money over single ticket prices. You’ll also

enjoy remarkable quality and variety in entertainment, the benefits of priority seating and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your seat is reserved before a blockbuster show sells out. We offer six subscription plans. Call the box office and we’ll help you decide which one works best for you.

And, still to enjoy this season ...

On MainStage thru April 19: Fox on the Fairway. Ken Ludwig’s spoof of the grand old game is funnier than “Caddyshack” and faster than a two-iron slice.

In the Pinkerton April 9 - 26: Next to Normal. This Tony and Pulitzer winning “feel-everything” musical explores - with humor and empathy - how one family copes with bipolar disorder. Starring Kim Kollar and Chris Caswell.

On MainStage April 12 & 13: Monday Monday. A tribute to the harmonies and songs of the Mamas and the Papas.

On MainStage May 5 - 24: The Miracle Worker. The moving drama based on the true story of Helen Keller and her dedicated teacher Annie Sullivan In the Pinkerton May 14 - 24: Children’s Letters to God. A whimsical and charming musical that follows five young friends as they voice beliefs, desires, questions and doubts common to all people.

On MainStage May 30: Lotela Gold. This fantastic nine-piece show band is back by popular demand. Proceeds benefit VT’s education programs.

On MainStage June 4 - 7: Loveland presents … Something Wonderful. A special tribute to the 20th year of the Loveland Center and Venice Theatre partnership.

TICKETS & INFO: 941-488-1115 ● VeniceStage.com ● 140 W. Tampa Ave.

A Powerful

10 Year Journey Theatre Odyssey Ten Minute Play Festival

It was a good idea 10 years ago, and it gets better with

shares the revenues from its productions with actors, direc-

age. Theatre Odyssey will present its Tenth Annual Ten-Min-

tors, and stage crew. Winning authors receive cash prizes

ute Play Festival at the Jane B. Cook Theatre at the FSU/Aso-

for festival winning plays. The company achieves 70 percent

lo Center for the Performing Arts, April 30 through May 3.

of its revenue from ticket sales. It also has generous donor

In one of its earliest playbills, the nonprofit theater com-

backing. Its Executive Producers this year are the Communi-

pany welcomed its audience to “an event that hopes to

ty Foundation of Sarasota County, philanthropist Gerri Aar-

blend three forces: a writer’s words, the emotive skills of ac-

on, and Scene Magazine.

tors, and the moving and motivating power of an audience’s

This year, eight original works by Gulf Coast based play-

reaction.” And true to the idea of the odyssey, the Cook

wrights will be presented in each performance of the festi-

Theatre is its seventh venue.

val, all competing for a Best Play award to be announced

Administered by unpaid leadership, Theatre Odyssey

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following the final performance on May 3. A bonus play at

scenesarasota.com

each festival performance will be the winner of this year’s Student Ten-Minute Playwriting Festival, Julien Freij’s As Long As the Moon Shines, a poignant story about a young man caring his best for his young sister.

The eight plays competing for Best Play in 2015 will join the 66 works produced at the last nine festivals. Theatre Odyssey has published two volumes of its produced plays. And several plays introduced by the company have been subsequently produced nationally and internationally.

Each year since it was founded by Tom Aposporos and Dr. Larry R. Hamm in 2006, the company invites play submissions from the Gulf Coast region (Tampa Bay to Fort Myers). Three qualified play readers are engaged to read and separately score each of the plays. The readers are not identified to each other but work from the same scoring criteria.

Playwrights identities are not provided to the readers, nor

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are the readers identified to the playwrights. This is all done to assure an independent process for play selection, free of even a perceived conflict of interest.

The top scoring plays are produced at the annual festival.

This year’s finalists, almost evenly divided between dramatic plays and comedies, are The Coward by Dylan Jones, The Dancing Lessons by Connie Schindewolf, Dream On, Merry May by Bernard Yanelli, High School Reunion by Arthur Keyser, It’s Time to Move by Ron Pantello, The Locket by Mark Leib, NIMBY by Robert Kinast, and Why by Marvin Albert. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on April 30, May 1 and 2. The final performance is May 3 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $20 per person for general seating ($5 for students with valid ID) and can be purchased at theatreodyssey. org. The company can be reached by calling 941.799.7224 or by email at info@theatreodyssey.org.

Captions from Left to Right: Photos by Cliff Roles.

Ben Kalish and Victoria Greenlaw in As Long As the Moon

Shines by Julien Freij (Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School), winner of Best Play, Third Annual Student Ten-Minute Playwriting Festival.

Brianna Larson and Mitcheal Pearl in Smart Bra by Sylvia Reed, Runner-up, Theatre Odyssey’s Ninth Annual Ten-Minute Play Festival.

Don Walker and Jenny Aldrich Walker in A Bottle of Vodka by Connie Schindewolf, Best Play, Theatre Odyssey’s Ninth Annual Ten-Minute Play Festival. scenesarasota.com

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scenes from an interview When you look at Jess Weixler, you don’t have to be a high-powered agent to know that she is going places.

As a young actress, Jess is defining her career with every new role she takes, whether as Robyn Burdine on the popular show The Good Wife or in somebody’s latest “passion project,” laying claim to her unofficial title, Queen of the Indies. It so happens that she’ll be in town showing her own passion project, Apartment Troubles, at the Sarasota Film Festival April 10 to 19. Jess has roots in four places – Brooklyn, Hollywood, Kentucky, and right here in our town. Educated at Julliard but grounded in life with a Southern humility, when this hard working actress tells you something, you believe it to be sincere and heartfelt. She’s real like the green grass of her Kentucky roots, and real film fans know her body of work from the campy cult classic Teeth. Others know her from her endless string of indie films where she always sinks her teeth into the part no matter how big or how small. Now, even more will recognize her for playing pal Jessica Chastain’s sister in The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby. Wherever you discover her, one thing is certain, there is much left for her to craft in a career filled with brave choices that seems to have no bounds. As we spoke over the phone recently on a laid back Sunday morning, there was charm, wit, and a sense of living in the moment that was refreshing. Still, underneath, I could feel a fire and passion that says she takes this acting business seriously, just like one of her heroes, Bette Davis, once did. I had a chance to talk with Jess before she arrives for the 17th annual Sarasota Film Festival and take a look at some of the scenes from an interview of her life.

Jess Weixler Where were you born?

I was born in Louisville, Kentucky.

What is your connection to the Sarasota area?

I am a huge Sarasota fan. My father lives in Venice, and my mother lives in Bradenton. Everyone from my family moved out here to the Tampa, Bradenton, and Venice area several years ago, so now I visit here for the holidays.

Do you consider yourself more of Kentucky girl, a Florida girl, or a Brooklyn girl?

I lived in Brooklyn for 11 years, but now I’m a Santa Monica girl. Probably at the heart of things, I will always be a Kentucky girl.

When you were growing up as a child, did you have that “Juliet moment” playing theater and make believe?

I did. I was an only child. What happens to a lot of us is that our imaginations go a little crazy because we play a lot of make believe. You have to go out, make friends, and be very social in order to stay active. I think those things lead to being interested in the theater. Theater always felt like a place where I could find brothers and sisters. It was like having family members for a period of time. You get very close in these theater groups, and I had a lot of them growing up.

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– By Gus Mollasis

You attended Julliard with Jessica Chastain who, it’s been said, is like a sister to you. Was Julliard more challenging or about what you expected?

There was no way of knowing how challenging it was going to be. Everyone wants to make progress, but really no one wants to change. Julliard forces you out of your habits, which is what you have to do as an actress so that you’re not always just playing a version of yourself. It allows you to tap into all the different aspects of your personality that maybe you’re not as comfortable with. I am so grateful for Julliard and being around friends like Jessica Chastain. We were all pushing each other to play characters we had never played before or go places with each other that we weren’t always comfortable with so that we could fill the span of being human. I spent most of my Julliard career playing character parts, not necessarily age appropriate parts or that of an ingénue. It was nice half the time playing an 80-year-old woman. I even played a boy once or twice.

(Laughs) It’s great to be challenged like that.

What is the secret to your relationship with Jessica Chastain and how it works in this competitive business?

We have a sister-like relationship. It happened very early. We knew we would have each other’s back. This business can be competitive, but it’s so nice to recognize scenesarasota.com

they come back together. You see different versions of the same scene in that they are shot differently and the dialogue is changed.

You started in television on The Guiding Light.

What did working on that iconic soap opera teach you about your craft?

The Guiding Light actually was my first job out of Julliard. What I learned was how fast people have to work on those shows. For better or for worse, they’re getting lines the day before and they’re shooting every day. It really builds an actor’s muscle to have to work that quickly. You get one or maybe two takes. You have to be such a pro to work on those shows. It teaches you how to work fast. You really can’t explore a scene.

I have also found that to be true while working on The Good Wife. These shows shoot so fast that you have to show up very prepared.

that being happy for somebody is actually a much bigger feeling than the feeling of being competitive, especially when you are learning from each other and you’re making each other better. One of the keys to our friendship is that we liked helping each other be better and are so proud of each other when we have successes.

You recently worked with her on the film The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby. Tell us what that was like and about the interesting way the story is told from various perspectives.

The movie gives his and her versions of The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby. You can watch them in either order. The “them” version was made into a movie that combined the his and her versions for people who didn’t want to watch the two-part version. The real point of the movie is the difference between the male and female perspectives of the same story. In her story, I play Jessica Chastain’s sister. I will be careful not to give too much away, but it’s really a love story between Jessica and James McAvoy who is wonderful.

When watching the various versions of this film, are we getting a different point of view on the story?

For sure. We’re witnessing what they each do when they separate, what they’re doing in their lives when they’re apart from each other, and what they do when scenesarasota.com

You’ve been touted as the “Indie Queen.” Do you wear that badge with pride, and does it make you feel like Parker Posey?

(Laughs) Well that’s a fun thing to have people say about you. Hopefully, you can branch out into all worlds of film. The indie world is one that I will always love from the bottom of my heart because it’s one that leaves room to explore and try new things. You don’t necessarily have to make something that is a marketable idea or something where people are doing it because they are trying to bank on how much that movie will make opening weekend. A lot of times they are passion projects where the director or an actor wants to work on it. It’s nice to be in an environment where everybody is hustling to make it work, not so much for the money, but to tell the story.

You have likened your performance in Teeth to Susan Sarandon’s in Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Please elaborate.

Teeth was an awesome way to start my career. It was the first major thing I did and the one that spread out more than I thought it would. It was this crazy indie movie with this crazy premise. I’m thinking, “I don’t know if anyone is going to see this and if they do, are they going to completely reject it because it’s so outrageous?”

Then people understood that the film has a sense of humor and has some interesting things to say about being a woman and being sexual even though it’s clearly a fantasy. I respected the bravery that Susan Sarandon had and looked up to her and still do for doing something outrageous that some people will like and some people will hate. I guess for me, Teeth was my way of saying, “You know, some people are going to like it and some people are going to hate it and that’s okay.”

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How do you know it’s a good part or script, and what happens to you while reading one?

Different things speak and appeal to me. Sometimes it’s because the character is new and different and something I haven’t played before. I may feel it would be interesting to push myself and dive into a different kind of character. Other times it’s really the story that moves me. You can tell if a movie has the potential to be great if you’re reading the script, and you’re getting into it. Trying to make a weak script into a great movie is much harder.

You seem to have a lot of chemistry with Jason Ritter having worked with him in Peter and Vandy as well as Free Samples. Tell me about that.

You have no choice who your scene partners are usually, and it’s awesome when they happen to be somebody you adore. It’s like a gift from the gods. Jason is hilarious, and that helps all things in life. He has the ability to be ridiculous and being ridiculous is one of my favorite things. Being able to goof off on set actually helps when you’re on screen because it means you have already established a rapport.

What is the most important thing you learned about yourself while portraying Robyn Burdine on The Good Wife?

(Long pause) I learned that I could hang with the big dogs. These are some of my favorite actors. People like Christine Baranski, Josh Charles, and Julianna Margulies. That whole cast is so incredible. I felt honored to show up to work every day and still be a bit of a silly character in a very serious world. It was fun to play against some of the drama and fold in a bit of humor.

Who are some of your heroes in the industry?

I’ve always loved Diane Keaton, Meryl Streep, and Susan Sarandon. Julianne Moore is a force of nature. Tilda Swinton. Talk about someone who is going to pursue and play characters you have never seen. What I wouldn’t give to work with Tilda Swinton. She’s an eccentric genius, and she’s hardly recognizable from one piece to the next.

Of your female contemporaries, whose work has you pause in awe and say, really?

Well I’m fond, obviously, of Jessica Chastain for the same reason I admire those other ladies from a different era. She pushes herself. She’s always trying to play different characters and show different aspects of being human. I also know Shailene Woodley. She seems so genuine. I’ve hung out with her a few a times, but beyond that I like her as a good young actress. Jennifer Lawrence is wonderful and has a genuine quality about her and she happens to be from Kentucky. I guess she’s just another good Kentucky girl. (Laughs)

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If you could go back in time and play one role from Broadway or from Hollywood’s Golden Age, what role would you like to play?

The options are unlimited. It’s very hard for me to pinpoint a specific part, but there are certain plays I would love to do. I have always been a huge Chekhov fan. I’ve done most of his plays, but I never get tired of his work. I would like to play any one of Bette Davis’ roles. She is such a reach.

If you were stranded on a desert island, and you had to watch one of your pieces of work over and over, which one would you never tire of?

I don’t know that I could watch anything I’ve done over and Great actors must always… over. (Laugh) That’s like …Push themselves. a horrible narcissistic sentence of being in I love when a director… purgatory while having …Investigates with you. to watch myself over and over and over and As an actress, I’m good because… pick myself apart. …I listen.

Finish the following sentences…

What do you find The best part of this business is… most fun or appeal…Connecting with people. ing about attending film festivals such The worst part of this business is… as the Sarasota Film …It’s very chaotic, and for better or for Festival? worse, it’s very unpredictable.

I have the best time at these festivals that are sort of away from New York and L.A. These independent movies don’t get around the country especially not in theaters. It’s so scenesarasota.com

nice to see them on a big screen and be able to hear an audience react to them. I love the conversations that I’ve had with people around festivals in Florida.

They are so excited to see something different, something that isn’t your typical big box weekend movie. You can just hang out with the audience and talk about the movies and films.

What would be most important for you to win in your life…an Emmy, Tony or Oscar?

Give me all three. (Laughs) Barring getting all three, I think the Oscar. I’m a movie person.

You will be showing Apartment Troubles at this year’s Sarasota Film Festival…a film you not only starred in, but co-wrote and co-directed. Do you see yourself following those paths while you continue acting?

It was amazing, incredibly challenging, and so fun to be on the other side of it. I co-wrote and co-directed with my friend Jennifer Prediger. It stars Will Forte, Megan Mullally, and Jeffrey Tambor. They’re just fabulous people and a gift from the gods that they were available. We shot the movie in 14 days. Real independent filmmaking. It was a little bit like being on one of those reality TV shows where we have to shoot so many pages in one night. You get a few takes and you just keep going. We had to go with our first instinct all the time.

Jenny and I also have a similar sense of humor that’s kind of offbeat. We had a blast making each other laugh and laughing and working with our incredibly talented cast and crew. I was so inspired by the crew and give a shout out to all the crews who work on independent films. They work so hard and such long hours for not a lot of money. I was constantly amazed and saying, “I scenesarasota.com

can’t believe that all these people are here working this hard on an idea that we have.” The best thing about being a director is passing the baton. It was like, “You’re the art department, this is the direction that we’re going in, but take the reins and do what you think is best.” It was beautiful to see how much each department came up with. When you give people the power, they do things far beyond what you could have dreamed of.

What is your advice to young actors out there who are trying to get that part and feed their art?

If they’re doing it because they love the craft and not because they want to be famous, then you just have to keep going to give yourself a chance to be brilliant. Because it is such a hard business, so many people quit before they give themselves a chance to be brilliant and grow.

There are few things that you can hop on out of the gate and be great at. If you love it, you just have to keep going.

That’s almost exactly the same answer Olympia Dukakis gave me right here at this very film festival many years ago.

Wow! Really? Olympia Dukakis!

Many, many, many years from now, how do you hope to be remembered?

Hard to answer that question without sounding egotistical. (Laughs) My first instinct is that I would love to be remembered as someone who is brave, coupled with… she connected with people.

No one has ever answered brave before and I’ve done over 50 of these Scenes from an Interview. I guess no one wants to be brave.

(Laughs) Then I’m sticking with brave.

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Looking Back: Scenes from Sarasota

Film Festivals

The Sarasota Film Festival (SFF) has always held a special place in my heart.

I’ve watched it evolve into one of the foremost film festivals in the nation because of the hard work of endless volunteers, the support of countless film fans as well as generous sponsors. With Sarasota serving as the perfect movie set and the direction left to a visionary board and a Louie B. Mayerlike leader, Mark Famiglio, SFF continues to be ready for its close up. As I look forward to this year’s 17th festival, I took a look back at my favorite baker’s dozen of memories and some scenes throughout the years from SFF. 86

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By Gus Mollasis

Seeing film history with Wings. Where else but SFF could you see the restored version of 1927’s Wings, the first film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture? In attendance was filmmaker K.C Schulberg, the grandson of B.P. Schulberg, who produced the silent classic. Stunning!

Getting to know Norman Lloyd. Mr. Lloyd came to town to promote a documentary called Who is Norman Lloyd? One afternoon I got a chance to interview this legend for four hours with the great journalist and friend Jake Jacobson! Who is Norman Lloyd? He played tennis with Chaplin, starred in Hitchcock’s Saboteur, turned down a part in Citizen Kane, starred on TV’s St. Elsewhere and taught us poetry in Dead Poets Society.

The bigger they are, the nicer they are. I’ve had the fortune of interviewing Christopher Plummer, Jon Voight, Louise Fletcher, Richard Dreyfuss, Kevin Kline and many other Oscar winners over the years as well as great directors such as the charming Norman Jewison who shared what it was like to direct Steve McQueen and Edward G. Robinson in The Cincinnati Kid. I discovered that all of them were nicer than they were talented. Olympia Dukakis even gave me a kiss on the cheek when she discovered that I was a fellow Greek.

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of seeing as many films as possible. Packing as many films as I can see in the limited time available leaves me blurry eyed, enlightened, and exhausted by the end of the Fest. While I always vow and promise to pace myself the next time, I can’t wait to do it again this year and join my posse of fellow media members and friends (you know who you are) as we get lost in the dark and discover all the good, bad, and ugly things films have to say. scenesarasota.com

Connecting with Peter Falk. I bumped into Peter Falk at the Ritz Carlton while he was having breakfast, and we spoke of his dear departed friend and fellow film legend John Cassavetes. It was the gleam and tear in his eye that I will always remember as he spoke fondly of this indie pioneer. On the opening night of his warm film, The Thing About my Folks, I caught Mr. Falk’s eye through a packed crowd on the Ringling grounds by saying just two words to the iconic actor – “John Cassavetes.” He smiled as his eyes lit up once again.

Like Rita Moreno, I like to live in America. My cameraman was a no show. Still, armed with my camera and a moment in time after screening West Side Story, I took my shot at interviewing Rita Moreno, one of only 12 people to win the EGOT, that’s the short list of folks awarded an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony – elite company for sure. In the lobby of the Hollywood 20, while seeing my plight, the legend volunteered her husband and manager Leonard Gordon to act as my stand-in cameraman. As strangers rushed by, we spoke of her legendary career, and she shared a secret, “There was no way this Puerto Rican broad was ever going to give up.” She earned my award of gratitude with her act of kindness while she proved to me that the show always goes on with or without a cameraman.

Singing Fly Me To The Moon with the sixth man to walk on the moon. When you are only one of 13 men who have landed on the moon, it’s a pretty small club.

What do you ask a man who has landed on the moon?

How does it feel? How does it look from there? I asked astronaut Dr. Edgar Mitchell all that and more. Then I asked him to sing Fly Me to the Moon. He obliged. He wasn’t Sinatra, but he wasn’t Jerry Lewis either. Actually Dr. Mitchell sounded great as we did a duet in the moonlight of the Ringling gardens at the feet of David and all the other statues and mere mortals who have never walked on the moon.

Jackie Mason insults and threatens to sue me. It was late on the Night of a Thousand Stars, and we had already spoken to everyone on the red carpet except him. I begged my cameraman and friend, the late Dr. Billy Boyer, to set up for one last interview with Jackie Mason. As we rolled, he insulted me and threatened to sue to me for stealing his act as I mimicked him with my questions. Then he asked me, “How does a Greek wipe out a Jew?” I laughed so hard that my stomach hurt. That memory warms my heart to this day, as Jackie Mason proved to this Greek boy that he was a true mensch.

Dream On — Aerosmith Rocks the Ritz then the Hyatt: The term, “acting like a rock star,” came to life on a wild night at the Ritz Carlton in Sarasota many moons ago. On this night, as Richard Dreyfuss was set to be presented with his Lifetime Achievement Award, scenesarasota.com

Richard Dreyfuss & Gus Mollasis

the rock band Aerosmith came in with all the swagger, glitz, and gravitas that the room could bear. The result? People in tuxes and pearls climbed over each other to get a piece of the band and especially Steven Tyler, the lead singer with the high range and buckets of charisma. Sensing the chaos, Tyler took control and threw the focus back to Dreyfuss by stepping to the mic and honoring the great actor. It was a night for the ages. Following the event, the band did an impromptu concert at the Hyatt with members of Cheap Trick joining in. It was a night the Sarasota Film Festival rocked like it had never before.

Surprised by a great film on the last day of the Fest. Discovering a great film is something for which I’ve always been grateful to SFF for. Much credit goes to Tom Hall and his team who focused on showing a wide range of films to our educated, sophisticated, and eclectic Sarasota audiences. Tom’s my friend, and I will miss him. Still like all great masters, before leaving the stage, he left SFF in good hands while providing me with one more great film memory. Flashback. Last day of last year’s festival and the last showing of a film. I see Tom Hall in the hall. Debating if I should go home or see the film Locke, I ask Tom his opinion. Without hesitation, he lights up and says, “Go see it, Gus, I think you’ll really like it.” On the way out of the theater he sees me. He knows. I thank him for another true film gem as I give him a hug goodbye. Thank you, Tom, and thank you SFF. Meeting Billy Crystal and his family on the red carpet. I remember interviewing Billy Crystal on the red carpet with his wife and daughter by his side. He was there to promote his daughter’s film My Uncle Berns. That night I interviewed a man that we have all seen on TV, in films and hosting the Oscars. Still, as I interviewed him we talked a little bit about baseball, Mickey Mantle, and his film 61, but mainly we talked about his little girl. On this night I met a proud papa, Billy Crystal, the family man. It’s a scene I will always remember, Billy glowing about his daughter’s film about his beloved Uncle Berns.

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Seeing a film by an unknown filmmaker and liking it. Film festivals are a mixed bag of films. They’re supposed to be. Some films you love. Some you may hate.

Some you may not understand. And some may make no impression at all. Still, some you will never forget.

I get my greatest great joy meeting new filmmakers, seeing their films, liking them, and telling them how much I loved them and why I related to them. The look in their eye when you genuinely relate to their art, and you tell them about it, is priceless.

Burt Young hugs my mom and somewhere my dad smiles. I saw Rocky when I was a kid with my mom, dad, and sister. The memory still warms my heart. Many years after Rocky and shortly after my dad passed away, my mom was in Sarasota where we healed as a family.

We attended the Sarasota Film Festival to escape our sorrow.

There we met Burt Young. I told him about our loss. He listened kindly as we told him about how much my dad, who in life was a meat man, liked Mr. Young’s performance as a meat man in Rocky. He gave my mom a caring hug. For giving my mom a hug when she needed it most, Burt Young will always be my second favorite meat man.

Mama Mollasis & Burt Young

GUS’S FIVE TIPS TO ENSURE A GREAT FESTIVAL 1. See at least one documentary, one short program, and one feature during the first weekend.

2. Go to one of the great conversation series events – you learn so much from these masters.

3. Attend opening night and closing night: fun and films.

4. Get your program, pick one film that you absolutely would never go see, and then see it. You will surprise yourself.

5. Soak up all the color: attend a party, gather at the red carpet, stay for a Q and A, meet a filmmaker, and see plenty of films because that’s what SFF is all about.

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EDUCATION

Education Matters

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast Photo by Glenn Gardner

Time is a precious and exacting commodity.

No matter if you are a professional meeting a deadline or a child playing outside before dinner, there never seems to be enough time, and the clock never stops ticking.

Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast can relate to this in a big way. Its mission to save natural lands forever is shaped by the reality that change happens quickly and land use decisions are made every day that impact the face and beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast. And quite literally, they are running out of time.

As a nationally accredited land trust, Conservation Foundation is committed to working with “landowners, businesses, and government to

will be the fate of much of Florida’s remaining natural lands

protect the character, natural integrity and biodiversity of

if we are not committed to protecting it.

the bays, beaches, barrier islands and their watersheds on Florida’s Gulf Coast.” The Foundation purchases natural ar-

Florida Water & Land Conservation Amendment

eas, holds land preservation agreements, and educates for

Florida voters demonstrated such commitment last Novem-

responsible land and water stewardship in Manatee, Saraso-

ber. The Florida Water & Land Conservation Amendment

ta, Charlotte, and Lee Counties.

received overwhelming passage, with 75 percent of voters showing support. The intent of this landmark vote is to re-

“We have a small window in which to act,” says Debi Osborne,

turn dedicated funding for “water and land conservation,

the organization’s Director of Land Protection. “The economy

management, and restoration” to prior historic levels. In

is starting to recover, people are flocking to Florida and more

2009, the Florida legislature reduced funding for water and

land will be developed. Any of our unique natural areas, water

land protection, with some programs being cut by more than

access points, and recreation lands that aren’t protected soon,

90 percent. The passage of this amendment ensures that

likely won’t be around for the next generation to enjoy.”

key conservation projects will be funded from existing doc stamp sources, without raising taxes and the funding can

Caring for our environment — the natural wonder that

be distributed through long-standing successful programs

makes Florida a magnificent place to live and whose tour-

already in place. Important to note is that this funding for-

ism revenue is $67 billion annually — isn’t about the short-

mula uses only a third of the doc stamp revenue for just 20

term. Yet, change happens fast. Osborne reminds people

years for conservation, leaving two-thirds to spend on other

who grew up here or who moved here just a decade or

important public needs such as affordable housing. Twenty

two ago to remember the places they loved. The parks. The

years is how much time experts believe we have to save

rivers. The fields. So much has already been lost. And that

Florida’s important places.

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“We need to make sure that the legislature follows the spirit of

Myakka Island Conservation Corridor

the law, too,” says Osborne. The goal was to ensure we have

This past December, the state’s Acquisition & Restoration

clean drinking water, safe fisheries, and protected land around

Council added three critically located ranches surrounding

our water resources. The money set aside — a little under 1

the Myakka River to the Florida Forever priority list. Along

percent of the state’s $77 billion budget — is not supposed to

with its predecessor, Preservation 2000, the Florida Forever

be used for buying waste water treatment plants, converting

program has become the most successful state land conser-

from septic to sewer systems, and building reservoirs. There are

vation program in the nation, protecting more than 2.4 mil-

other funds for that. “We hope people will remind their elected

lion acres of natural areas, wildlife habitat, parks, greenways,

officials of why they voted for this amendment and how little

trails, and water resources.

time we have to achieve these important goals,” she adds.

The lands involved in Conservation Foundation’s Myakka IsPhoto by Daniel Perales

land Conservation Corridor project — Triangle Ranch, Sheps Island Ranch, and Orange Hammock Ranch — equal almost 7,500 acres. That doesn’t seem like much compared to what Florida Forever has done, but their importance to our region cannot be overstated. Conserving these lands will further protect the 110,000 acres of already conserved land, known as the “Myakka Island”. For wildlife such as the gopher tortoise, the roseate spoonbill, and the Florida panther, this means more connected, therefore safe, room to roam. For people, conserving these new lands protects and improves water quality and flood protection in our area.

Director of Programs and Marketing Suzanne Gregory says, “It’s all about being strategic and thoughtful in our land protection efforts. We have these beautiful bays and irreplaceable estuaries along our coast. If we don’t protect the lands upstream along the river, it will have negative impacts on our

Building a Conservation Community

coast, drinking water, fisheries, recreation areas and so much

Education is a critical part of the Foundation’s work to build a

more.” She adds it’s better to act now and have no regrets of

community that recognizes and supports the importance of land

lost opportunities later.

conservation. What would signal that our region is a conservation community? If people knew that our natural environment is

Debi Osborne is encouraged that we can all work togeth-

not only indispensable to our quality of life on the Gulf Coast,

er to save the most important lands that are still available.

but also an economic driver. That is why the Foundation wants

“If we’re creative and work collaboratively,” she explains,

this community to know that people come to this area to live

“much of the natural beauty of Florida will be here for

and visit because of our spectacular beaches, parklands and pre-

generations to come, ensuring that residents and visitors

serves - all the attributes that make this area unique. A recent

will always be able to enjoy Florida’s special natural and

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Survey shows that 96 percent of Florida

recreational assets.”

residents think outdoor recreation is important. And 83 percent of Florida visitors want to be close to nature. Saving more land,

Simply stated, what Conservation Foundation is saying and

while we still can, is crucial if our region is to remain a leader in

doing is keeping safe the places we consider special. To be

quality of life, eco-tourism, and protecting our natural resources.

part of this future vision, all we have to do is stay informed and act accordingly. And there’s no better time to act than

Conservation Foundation also educates landowners on the

right now while we still have wildlife, wild places, clean

opportunities to protect their land. There are tax benefits of-

drinking water, and a beautiful bay.

fered for donating land or allowing conservation agreements to be put into place. For truly special pieces of land, landowners

To join the conservation community and help save land

might receive federal, state, and local incentives to be part of

forever, visit Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast at

the conservation effort.

www.conservationfoundation.com or call (941) 918-2100.

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SOCIAL

Behind the Scene

Society Maven Debbi Benedict Gives the Latest Scoop We are coming down to the final stretch of another Sarasota social season, and just like the upcoming Kentucky Derby it’s win, place, or show. I think, this year, most of the organizations have had a win! And as Martha Stewart says, that’s a good thing!

One of the most fun luncheons of the season is the Community Video Archives’ Hall of Fame Luncheon held at Michael’s On East. Each year four local folks are inducted into the CVA Hall of Fame and have videos made telling us about their lives and their contributions to our community. While the videos are heartwarming and entertaining, I also love the old photos of each person. Many times there is a roar of laughter when certain photos, usually taken in the 1970s, pop up on the screen. Most adorable are always the baby photos. This year’s inductees are Asolo Rep theater icon, David Howard; philanthropist and community advocate, Carol Poteat Buchanan; distinguished attorney and a member of the Ringling College of Art and Design board of trustees for over 50 years, Robert Kimbrough; and long-time Herald-Tribune theater critic, Jay Handelman. By the way, you will see everyone in town at this luncheon. It is just that popular. Chris Pfahler is the chair and Annette Scherman is the founder. Also that day, Kathy Schersten and Bobbie Hamilton will speak about how it was in the old days when they first started 25 years ago. Sponsors include Northern Trust, Renee Hamad, Gerri Aaron, Betty Schoenbaum, and Scene Magazine among many others.

The Ritz-Carlton ballroom is packed to the gills, or maybe I should say gilt, with all the guests of one of the largest luncheons in town. The Girls Inc. Celebration Luncheon usually gathers about 900 of the most influential men and women in town to support girls growing strong, smart, and bold. This year’s chairs, Stephanie and Max Hannum, get to preside over the luncheon that brings National Girls Inc. CEO Judy Vredenburgh to present the first time ever National Girls Inc. Champion of Girls Award to long-time supporter and volunteer, Sherry Watts. Sherry has served on the local and national Girls Inc. boards and has devoted many, many hours to leadership and empowering girls to be their best. The Donna Brace Ogilvie Board of Directors Visionary Award will be presented to Cookie Boudreaux, a senior consultant and a former board member of Girls Inc. Her vision of creating a national giving society led to the evolution of the national Girls Inc. giving society called “Champions for Girls”, which launched in the fall of 2014. All 100 Girls Inc. affiliates use “Champions for Girls” as a way to work with supporters and engage them with the local and national network. The coveted Girl of the Year Award will go to Isabelle Crotsley, who was selected for her leadership, kindness, and entrepreneurial spirit. She also is a hard-working student. Top

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sponsor is JCI Jones Chemicals, followed by Gulf Coast Community Foundation, Publix Super Market Charities, and Shumaker, Loop, & Kendrick, among others.

Children First might win the best invitation award this year for an inventive pop-up castle for their Fairytale Ball – The Crystal Palace. Held at Michael’s On East and chaired by Leslie and Alan Jones, Nola and Larry Hietbrink, and Jo and Stan Rutstein, the invitation asks us to wear fairytale-inspired ball gowns. Do I see a few Disney princesses in our future? I know some gals, and so do you, who could pull that off. I am told that Michael’s will be transformed into a regal palace of silver and blue with crystal accents. I just hope my pumpkin, er, I mean my carriage, arrives before midnight! Diamond Sponsors are Gerri Aaron and Marvin Albert and Gerry Daniel in memory of Ruth Daniel. Platinum Sponsor is FCCI Insurance Group.

There are a few folks who think that the musicians of the La Musica International Chamber Music Festival are a little staid and very proper, as they play classical music and all. Well, let me tell them something – they have never been to a La Musica Interactive Dinner, that’s for sure! Chair Janet Hunter limits the number of guests attending the Michael’s On East feast so it is an intimate affair and you really get to mingle with the world-renowned musicians. What surprises me most when I attend is how young the musicians are! Well, okay, not all of them, but several of them! Musician chefs Dmitri Atapine (cello) and Daniel Avshalomov (viola) lead the group in preparing their own recipes, along with Phil Mancini’s chef, Jamil Pineda. At the end of the evening, you

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get to take home the recipe cards so you can prepare the yummies yourself. Scene Magazine and BB&T are sponsors.

You can always expect great music and dancing at any Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe party! The troupe’s April Fools’ Fete, with chairs Doris Johnson and Shelley Goldblatt and held at Michael’s On East, will feature a 15-year retrospective of

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WBTT’s history and a video tribute to the Theatre. The harlequin theme runs through the decorations and will bathe the ballroom in bright orange, red, yellow, and purple.

Michael’s will prepare a “foolishly fabulous

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artist surgeon.”

“I was an before I was a

– Dr. Alissa Shulman

feast”, I am told. Michael Klauber is the auctioneer, and two of the items presented will be a low country boil, home-cooked

by Debbie and Bill Partridge at their home and a trip to the prestigious National Black Theatre Festival in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. And that music I was talking about, will be performed by musicians who are ongoing players at the Theatre, led by Music Director and bassist extraordinaire Jay Dodge. Presenting sponsor is BB&T. I believe the first ever event to have a child chairperson is United Cerebral

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Palsy’s Kids’ Black Tie – Dress Up Under the Big Top, with seven-year-old Cambelle Anders. Her letter to sponsors is absolutely adorable, as is she! Director Of Development & Communication Lea Mei is doing all sorts of incredible things at UCP, and I think this first-time event is going to be darling. You know how much I love a ball gown. Oh, how I wish I could have

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at the Circus Arts Conservatory and will

wee one! It will be held under the big tent feature circus performances and a ballet performance during dinner. There will also

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be games scattered all over the tent for the kids to play. The live auction will have a day with baseball star Bobby Bonilla and a trip to Disney. Sponsors are Rita B LaMere Foundation, and the Buchanan Family.

Did you know that the Designing Daughters grew so much that they broke away from the Designing Women Boutique umbrella, and are now partnered with the Community Foundation of Sarasota County?

These

enterprising

femmes

are some of the movers and shakers of young Sarasota and they mean business.

Operating with very little overhead, almost all funds raised go directly to grant-making.

Their upcoming fundraiser, A Fashionable

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“Love my portrait Smile!”

Gala, chaired by Kelly Baldwin and held

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channel mystery men and Bond girls in a

– Erin (actual patient)

at the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, will night featuring old-school glamour, casino games, and entertainment by Jonathan

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cocktails will be served by Louie’s Modern.

stars in the museum’s courtyard – how romantic! Heavy hors d’oeuvres and an open bar with beer, wine and signature Sponsors include Pure Barre Sarasota, Atlas

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Insurance, 530 Burns Gallery, PNC Bank, and Nikki and Trevor Taylor.

A big silent auction and a big paddle raise challenge are central to Samaritan Counseling

Services’

Women

Helping

Women Luncheon at Michael’s On East.

Dana Lederer, chair, and her committee have rounded up over 80 items for the silent auction, so you are sure to find something to tempt you! Items include ever-popular week vacations in a North Carolina condo

S e r v ic e

Q u ali t y

Trust

and a Tennessee cabin. The challenge will start with a $10,000 gift from Ken and JoAnn Johns. Sponsors are Harold C. and Jacqueline F. Bladel Foundation, Evalyn Sadlier Jones Foundation, Johns Eastern Company, and the Buchanan Family Foundation.

Celebrating

35

years

of

providing

services to prevent and treat child abuse, the Child Protection Center’s Blue Ties and Butterflies gala features the tagline, “She couldn’t resist the music that was already inside her. So she danced.” That line follows a specially developed animated piece, The Dancing Tree, based on a narrative therapy piece written by a young client

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and animated by Ringling School of Art and Design graduate Genevieve Marie Fasanella, artist Ben Grenier, and composer Ben Kunkel. Lots of blue and butterflies will guide Chairs Donna Koffman, Peg Roberts, and Nikki Williams in the room’s decoration and they ask guests to also wear blue, with butterflies optional. Oh no, I can see it now, a fascinator hat in the shape of a giant butterfly! Surely Sarasota’s fashionistas will come up with chic ways to honor the butterfly, won’t they? Since it’s all about the kids, as guests arrive, Southside Elementary School’s Jazz Band will perform in the atrium, and at the closing, Booker High School Choral Group will round out the evening with a special rendition of Blue Ties & Butterflies’ staple closing song, High Hopes. Platinum Butterfly Sponsors are Andrew and Barbara Cervasio, followed by Gold Butterfly Sponsors, The Bellwether Group at Morgan Stanley, Graci and Dennis McGillicuddy, Publix Super Markets Charities, Karen and Michael Valentino, and Robert and Shannon Warren.

White.Hot.Sexy is the theme of this year’s Humane Society of Sarasota County’s Paws on the Catwalk at the Ritz-Carlton. Of scenesarasota.com

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course, you know what that means, don’t you? Yes, it’s one of those events where you must wear white. And I guess, if it’s hot and sexy, that wouldn’t hurt either! Frankly neither of those words would describe my wardrobe, but event chairs Alex Miller and Chris Voelker could certainly get away with that look! INfluence Style will be producing the fashion show and models will walk down the runway with the shelter’s dogs, always the furry ball of love hit of the event.

A raffle will be held where guests can purchase bracelets, each with a number on the inside. This number will be used for the raffle drawing. The featured raffle item prize is a glam pair of diamond hoop earrings from Carats Fine Jewelry. Les McCurdy and Ken Sons will be the auctioneers for the live auction. Sponsors are The Gail Baird Foundation and The Marciniak Group.

Outgrowing your space is a good problem to have and the YMCA’s signature event, Going for the Gold, is moving from its longtime home at the Y’s Euclid Avenue complex to Dolphin Aviation. With the theme of An Unbridled Affair, the time and dress code are also changing to reflect a Kentucky Derby

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feeling, including having the Derby on live for guests to watch and to actually place bets.

Expect the décor and cuisine by Michael’s On East to reflect a “Run for the Roses” feeling.

The chairs are mostly men for a change – Dan Dannheisser, Mitchell Epstein and Mike Hagen – with the exception of the lovely, and definitely not male, Merrill Bonder. Michael Klauber will be the auctioneer. DJ LaSage,

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

       

 

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

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official DJ of the Tampa Bay Lightning, featuring vocalist Lido Capogrosso, will provide the dance tunes. Top sponsors are Merrill Bonder, Olson Family Foundation, Mitchell and Dawn Epstein, Stanley Kane, and Paul and Carina Bowman.

Paul Gallagher, Scott George, Brent Greeno, Paul Mattison, Terry McKee, Michael

Pleas,

Jeff

Sedacca,

Steve

Seidensticker, and Jon Thaxton are just a handful of the 22 men who will be showing off their culinary skills at Asolo Rep’s Men Who Cook at the Van Wezel Grand Foyer.

Some of Sarasota’s most influential men about town gather their friends together to cheer them on as they prepare some of their favorite dishes. There is an auction of cakes that may or may not be made by each chef. I scenesarasota.com

think it is a solid bet that some of their wives or even Publix might actually be the ones who stir up the batter and pop them in the oven! The most fun part? It’s seeing what kind of tablescapes and costumes each one comes up with to impress the others! Event chairs are Beverly Bartner, Judi Gallagher, Molly Schechter, and Margaret Wise. Top sponsors are Mattison’s and ABC7.

Everything about the Sarasota Film Festival is always hush hush until the very last minute when they like to make a big splash by announcing all the very fancy big-time movie stars attending and it is no different with their “At Lunch With…” luncheon at the Sarasota Yacht Club. By the time you read this, the special guest will have been announced so you will be able to fill in the blank yourself. It will be a 50s inspired classic Hollywood theme celebrating women in film. The chair is Kelly Martella and the auction will benefit the SFF’s education programs. Scene Magazine is the sponsor.

The winner of the 2015 Greenfield Prize is drummer, composer, and bandleader, Bobby Previte. He will be honored at the Hermitage Artist Retreat’s Greenfield Prize Dinner at Michael’s On East. Bobby is unable to attend the dinner, but his music and career highlights will be presented by pianist, Tony Kieraldo. The premiere sponsor is the Community Foundation of Sarasota County.

I didn’t have much information on the Historic Spanish Point Annual Luncheon before we went to print, but I did want to let you know it will be at Michael’s On East and the theme is A Fair Legacy: Luncheon in the White City. It will take guests back in time to experience the ambiance of 1893 Chicago and the World’s Columbian Exposition, which marked the beginning of America’s Golden Age. The event will feature period fashions, music, posters, and photographs of the fair, as well as a meal inspired by menus of the era. Noted art lecturer Baila Miller will speak about the exposition and its significance.

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

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

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99

S AR A SOTA

f i l m f e s t i va l

the

Hearts and Minds OF INDEPENDENT FILM

A P R I L 1 0 TH

-

1 9 TH 2 0 1 5

10 TH O P E N I N G N I G H T F I L M & P A R T Y 11 TH O v e r T h i r t y f i l m s b e g i n s c r e e n i n g e v e r y d a y

and

e v e n i n g a t t h e H o l l y w o o d 2 0 T h e a t e r.

12 TH M o o n l i g h t M o v i e D o l p h i n T a l e

Free public outdoor screening for the family on Lido Beach at sunset.

17 TH C i n e m a T r o p i c a l e

SFF’s celebration of music, high-end fashion, and exotic cuisine provides celebrants an opportunity to witness a runway show while mingling with guest filmmakers and artists from around the world.

18 TH C l o s i n g N i g h t F i l m a n d A w a r d s 19 TH H o l l y w o o d N i g h t s

Celebrate the culmination of SFF’s Education Program and youthFEST with Student Red Carpet and Student Filmmaker screenings honoring the efforts of future filmmakers in our c o m m u n i t y.

FOR A FULL LIST OF EVENTS, CONVERSATIONS, & FILMS - SEE OUR FILM GUIDE AVAILABLE 3/25 IN OUR BOX OFFICE AT THE HOLLYWOOD 20 THEATRE 1993 MAIN ST. OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.Sarasotafilmfestival .com

BOX OFFICE OPENS: MEMBERS MARCH 26TH GENERAL PUBLIC MARCH 27TH

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#MySFF

LOCALLY

NEWS SHAPING

OUR COMMUNITY CALLAGHAN TIRE PRESENTS CHECK TO DATTOLI CANCER AND RESEARCH CENTER

auction total of $37,000. Proceeds benefit Sarasota County’s public schools. The program has raised more than $2.7 million for schools, students and teachers since 1996. edfoundation.net

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION AWARDS MORE THAN $165,000 IN ARTS GRANTS Since February 2014, the Community Foundation of Sarasota County has awarded 84 grants totaling $165,283 to fund arts and cultural experiences for teachers and students through EdExploreSRQ, a web-based search platform that features hundreds of offerings by local nonprofits and individual teaching artists. cfsarasota.org Dan Callaghan (far right) of Callaghan Tire Charity Pro Am and Golfers Against Cancer presented a check to Ginya Carnahan (left) and Dr. Michael Dattoli (center) of the Dattoli Cancer and Research Center for $20,000. The funds were a portion of the proceeds from the 2014 golf tournament held at Ritz Carlton Members Club and Lakewood Ranch Country Club.

The dates for this year’s tournament are November 8, 9 and 10. callaghantirecharityproam.com

SARASOTA MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION AWARDS $4.1 MILLION IN GRANTS Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s Board of Directors approved $4.1 million in grants in 2014. These grants go towards research, patient care, education, technology, and facilities for Sarasota Memorial Hospital and other healthcare organizations whose mission aligns with that of SMHF and SMH. A full list of 2014 grants is posted on SMHF website. smhf.org

SUBMISSIONS OPEN FOR $500,000 GCCF INNOVATION CHALLENGE Submissions are open for Gulf Coast Community Foundation's Innovation Challenge, a $500,000 incentive-grant challenge to grow the marine sciences on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The Challenge is intended to spur innovative solutions to problems or unrealized opportunities within the marine-sciences sector. gulfcoastcf.org

EDUCATION FOUNDATION RAISES MORE THAN $275,000 The Education Foundation’s annual Evening of Excellence grossed more than $275,000 including $56,000 in in-kind gifts and a live scenesarasota.com

CARLSON CLEANERS WINS READERS’ CHOICE AWARD Carlson Cleaners earned top spot for Best Local Dry Cleaner 2015 in the Sarasota Herald Tribune’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards. Carlson Cleaners is a family-run business with three locations in Sarasota and Venice. carlsoncleaners.com The Carlson Cleaners team, from left, Sabiola Lugo, Don Carlson, Donald Carlson, Jr., and Amanda Carlson.

NEW BOARD CHAIR APPOINTED FOR DOCTORS HOSPTIAL Doctors Hospital recently named Myron F. Robinson as the new Board of Trustees Chairperson. Robinson has served on the Doctors Hospital Board since 2012. His background includes more than 35 years of service as President and CEO of various Urban League affiliates across the country. doctorsofsarasota.com

HOSPITAL BOARD APPROVES SMH TRAUMA CENTER BID; HOSPITAL ADDS RESIDENCY The Sarasota County Public Hospital Board voted to support Sarasota Memorial Health Care System’s bid to become a Level II Trauma Center. If the state grants provisional approval, Sarasota Memorial estimates it will treat 500 to 1,000 trauma patients a year. It also is developing an Internal Medicine Residency Program, which would create Sarasota’s first residency program for new physicians. smh.com April 2015

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HEALTH MATTERS

Woman to Woman: Real Breast Talk

By Alissa M. Shulman, M.D., F.A.C.S. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Let’s face it; we all want our breasts to look their best, at any age or size. This is for us, and all of the other women we compare ourselves to.

Size is a good place to start: there is no such thing as the “perfect size”. The right size has to do with proportion, but even then, there are other factors involved. As we age, skin (which is the only thing holding our breasts up) weakens. So, larger breasts sag and ultimately look matronly as we age. Smaller breasts–B to C cups–age better.

Weight is a factor, and again, proportion is the key.

A woman’s activity level also matters. Large breasts get in the way of most athletic Alissa M. Shulman, M.D., F.A.C.S.

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many choices: different volumes, silicone vs. saline, teardrop vs. round, and smooth vs. textured. All this is best decided between you and your (board certified) plastic surgeon.

For a smaller increase in size, implants are still an option, but if you have some spare fat, then fat grafting might be for you. Long touted as unpredictable, the science and art of fat grafting has come a long way in the past 10 years. The fat is removed (liposuction) from areas of excess, filtered, and then carefully injected into the target areas. Unlike implants, fat grafting does not tolerate over-stuffing; add too much fat, and it stresses the tissue and dies. Realistic expectations are a one half to one cup increase.

For a smaller breast, a breast reduction is the best option. Regardless of the degree of volume reduction, it always includes a lift as well. This procedure, by far, has the most satisfied patients. Liposuction can be used to decrease volume, but without skin reduction, it can leave the breast even droopier than before. This leads into the other factors in breast aesthetics.

Regardless of size, we all want our breasts to look younger/lifted. Isn’t that why the bra exists? Sometimes, a woman thinks she needs implants, but if her size is fine, all she really needs is a lift (mastopexy). It may seem strange to some, but I spend a lot of time talking women out of implants. If their size is fine, the real goal is perkier breasts. Over time, implants like natural breasts will eventually respond to gravity. In an age where younger, healthier, more athletic shapes are the goal, a lift (or even small reduction) is the best option. A mastopexy can also be “padded” with fat grafting to the cleavage area.

Breasts in their natural state don’t really have that full cleavage look made popular

by Victoria’s Secret. But any of the above procedures can either benefit or adversely affect cleavage. Implants need to be placed close enough to allow cleavage in a bra, and far enough apart so as not to create a “uni-boob”. Fat grafting in the cleavage area is also a good option to create the desired result. Let’s face it – Florida is too warm to live in armor (bra) just for prettier breasts!

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Literary Scene

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

In Some Other World, Maybe: A Novel While Shari Goldhagen’s second

“the book is about the confusion and

novel moves around a good bit in terms

possibility of early adulthood, where

of physical geography — Florida, Los

most of us have to go back to the draw-

Angeles, Cincinnati, and Chicago — I’m

ing board a few times when it comes

impressed by her ability to render these

to a grand life plan. That time when

locales effectively. I’ve lived in two of

you realize your parents are actually

these places and visited the others nu-

fellow humans, and that even the most

merous times. She’s done a good job,

intense relationships need to be able to

and that alone suggests she deserves

evolve to survive.” She adds, “it’s also

the top billing in this month’s Literary

about the way that we’re connected to

Scene. But what really earns her this

others, sometimes without even realiz-

distinction is her keen ear for dialogue,

ing it. And about how our small choic-

spot-on pop culture references, and be-

es — deciding to take the 3 a.m. phone

lievable voices of her characters.

call from an unknown number, talking

Simply put, the story is about three

to a stranger at a wash ‘n fold — can

strangers who each separately see

have profound reverberations on our

the same movie (it’s a made-up com-

lives and others.”

ic-book inspired Hollywood hit enti-

Some readers will be troubled by her

tled Eons and Empires) in 1992. The

use of the second person in this book,

novel then follows how these folks

and because the book moves around so

move forward, backward, together,

much in place and time, some readers

and apart over the next two decades.

might feel disconnected. But there is

It sounds like a simple enough, albeit

much to admire here above and beyond

unusual, idea for a book, but keeping

the terrific ‘90s flashbacks. She’s a writ-

that many narrative threads in order is

er to watch for sure. And you might just

a tall order indeed.

want to check out her first-rate first nov-

A friend who also read a copy of

el, Family and Other Accidents.

this adeptly called it The Breakfast

In sum, this darkly comic book

Club meets Six Degrees of Separation.

sheds some real light on what it is to

Not a bad tweet-sized synopsis.

grow up in today’s (and yesterday’s)

Goldhagen herself explains that

America. It’s a worthwhile, fine read.

For more information about In Some Other Word, Maybe: A Novel (St. Martin’s Press, hardcover, 288 pages, $25.99) or the author, visit sharigoldhagen.com.

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scenesarasota.com

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105

Exam Room Confidential: The Wellborne Files: A Novel

Novelists are often advised to write about what they know, and in this case, that’s what Lakewood Ranch author Louis Siegel, M.D., is doing. As a patient advocate for 40 years, he knows the world of medicine inside and out, which surely is what makes this medical mystery so authoritative and compelling. Fictional doctor Charles Harper White starts off as an idealistic intern but soon is challenged by his exposure to the dark underbelly of the world of medicine that few get to witness.

At one point in the book, Charlie is caught up in the arrogance doctors feel, saying, “My office is my kingdom.

As I view it, everything there revolves around me, much as the planets revolve around the sun, only the sun is a mere celestial body.”

For those particularly interested in issues of ethics, morals, gender, and end-of-life concerns, this book will likely deliver. And for those who enjoy it, keep an eye out for future Dr. Charlie White books by Siegel.

For more information about Exam Room Confidential: The Wellborne Files (CreateSpace Publishing, softcover, 256 pages, $12.99) or the author, visit examroomconfidential.com.

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