April 2011

APRIL 2011 $3.95 U.S.

CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY FOR 54 YEARS

Style & Beauty

Meet Four Dynamic Women Who Have It All!

PLUS Social News & Pics, Events, Arts, Culture & More!

Join us Friday, May 6, 2011 for the 10th Anniversary

Physicians Golf Tournament at The Concession Golf Club

Friday, May 6, 2011 Registration: 11:30 a.m.

Shotgun Start: 1:00 p.m.

Format: Scramble Cost: $395 per player

Event includes golf, professional caddies, tips, cart, lunch buffet, awards dinner and all beverages.

Proceeds beneďŹ t the Physicians Endowment (an education fund for hospital staff) For more information or to reserve your space, contact Lisa Intagliata at (941) 917-1286 or visit our website at SMHF.ORG.

Remember that one kid in class who blew Show & Tell away?

We’re that kid.

One of only 5 hospitals in the U.S. to win both awards 5 years in a row.

There’s simply no competing with our Show & Tell this year. Sarasota Memorial stands proudly in front of the class of hospitals, locally and nationally, public and private. Receiving such prominent awards is indeed an honor. But providing the best, safest health care for you and your family is an even greater honor – and our true reward.

1700 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34239 ı (941) 917-9000 ı smh.com HealthGrades is a leading, independent health care ratings organization, providing comprehensive ratings on 5,000 hospitals nationwide since 1998.

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Directions: Take I75 to University exit 213, head east just past Lake Osprey Drive; University Information Center on right.

NOW OPEN new neighborhoods BELLEISLE and SECRET HARBOR in Country Club East!

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IT’S ABOUT...

LIFESTYLE...FRIENDS...FAMILY BRINGING IT ALL TOGETHER

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1103 12th Avenue East | Palmetto, FL 34221 | 941-729-5000 | www.jupitermarine.com

contentsfeatures fiftyone Style & Beauty April 2011

20 51

Volume 54 No. 5

SCENE Celebrity Watch Style, Beauty & Brains Heidi K. Anderson, Tommye E. Barie, Lynette Mancuso & Alex Miller Sue Cullen

60 64

JFCS's 2011 Women of Valor Pampered Pets and the Owners Who Love Them A Look Inside a $50 Billion Industry Ryan G. Van Cleave

72

Beach Babes, Brides & Beauties Circa 1920 Sue Blue

77

Remembering Café L'Europe's Titus Letschert

WOMEN OF VALOR LUNCHEON Monday, February 28, 2011 Michael’s On East

60

Steven J. Smith

64

CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY FOR 54 YEARS

20

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Sponsored by:

Style & Beauty

Meet Four Dynamic Women Who Have It All!

PLUS Social News & Pics, Events, Arts, Culture & More!

Cover / Meet four dynamic woman who expel the myth that style, beauty and brains don’t mix. Photo by Rob Villetto.

Directing Awareness

Since 1989, the Center for Faith and Freedom has utilized its video production capabilities to document many of the social, economic, humanitarian and spiritual issues facing individuals and families in crisis. We take seriously our obligation to support and serve those citizens who may have been forgotten or overlooked by our fast-paced society.

To see samples of our award-winning video documentaries, visit us online: www.FaithandFreedom.org

Stuart J. Roth

Founder and President With 22 Telly Awards and an Emmy® Award for Advanced Media Documentary, the Center for Faith and Freedom represents the cutting edge of the multi-media industry.

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

contents inside 12

fortyfour

From the Editor Julie Milton

24 39

Events Calendar The Ringling Art Experience Ryan G. Van Cleave

44

48

Arts & Culture

67

Culture Matters Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

67

Scenes from an Interview Actor Christopher Plummer Gus Mollasis

74

50

39

Profiles The Visual Arts

79

Food Styling The Art of Seduction Susan Cullen

87

Curtain Call

79

Steven J. Smith

91

Behind the Scene Debbi Benedict

97

Locally

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Archie Griffin Celebrity Golf Classic Pro-Am

50

Junior League's Legacy Luncheon

21

Moffitt Cancer Center’s Women’s

78

Planned Parenthood's 45th Anniversary

85

New College 50th Anniversary Tribute Dinner

86

JFCS Women of Valor Awards

Cancer Awareness Luncheon

47

SO's Behind the Mask Gala

48

Asolo Rep's Studio 54 Disco Palace

And this is a Wednesday night...

Laurel Oak Country Club Where Every Night is a Happening

941-378-3399

Call For Your Personal Tour Today | 2700 Gary Player Boulevard, Sarasota, FL 34240 | www.laureloak.com

PRIVATE COUNTRY CLUB

scene | from the editor

A

pril is here and it brings the best of the spring season – which for me has always been the change of fashion to brighter looks, the uplifting lightness in our evening hours, and the orderly feeling of a good spring cleaning. But with

fashion being as fleeting as the seasons, I would rather talk about style since true style is life-long. Your style IS you, on the surface and underneath the surface. It helps shape who we are and how others perceive us.

In this, our Style & Beauty issue, we bring you stories of women that I hope will fascinate and inspire you. Our cover story features four dynamic and successful career women making their mark in our community. Not only do they possess great style and beauty, but they complete the perfect trifecta being among our most brainy! On page 68, be sure to spend some time reading about 25 local women, recently honored by the JFCS as “Women of Valor”, who also have lots of style, beauty and brains. These women are all interesting and motivational and I hope their many accomplishments will move you into community action as they all have made a difference in the lives of others many times over.

If you love your pet, and who among us doesn’t, Ryan Van Cleave tells us about high stylin’ pets, their owners and the salons that pamper them. You know how much our pets love being groomed especially when you see them proudly prance around waiting for us to sing their praises. And please, don’t forget to take advantage of several of the special offers given SCENE readers in the ads of some of our style and beauty advertisers – Fresh Spa and Salon, Cutting Loose Hair Salon, and Yellow Strawberry Hair & Makeup Salon. There’s no better time than spring to spruce up with a new look.

So with April showers being nothing to worry about in our part of the country, enjoy the perfect weather as we happily spring ahead!

12

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April 2011

scenesarasota.com

Influence offers quality designer contemporary clothing for women who love great design and a bit

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Locally Owned, Operated & Printed For More Than 54 Years CEO/Publisher: Ronald Milton Executive Editor: Julie A. Milton Director of Sales: Hal Brin Special Issue Director: Debbi Benedict Art and Production Director: Michelle Cross

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copenhagen imports 7211 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota �������������������������������������������������� www.Copenhagen-Imports.com

Contributing Writers: Debbi Benedict, Sue Blue, Sue Cullen, Gus Mollasis Steven J. Smith, Ryan G. Van Cleave Photographers: Cliff Roles, Carissa Warfield Principal Office & Mailing Address: 7269 Bee Ridge Road Sarasota, FL 34241 941-365-1119 • Fax: 941-954-5067 SCENESARASOTA.COM offers current and recent issues, a community calendar of events, social photos and much more!

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

Publisher assumes no responsibility for care of return of unsolicited materials. Subscription price: $12.95 per year, $19.95 for two years. All contents copyrighted. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. ISSN 1535-8895.

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14

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April 2011

Sarasota County Arts Council 2010/2011 Arts & Culture Guide

• Home • Retirement • Annuities

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It’s going to be a

great April...No Fooling!

I

t’s April and that means there are new opportunities blooming for you to learn about the wonderful retirement lifestyle at Freedom Village Bradenton – and much more! Join us for these great events.

Monday, April 4 • 10:30 a.m.

Real Estate Update Luncheon – Steven DuToit and John Buice from Keller Williams will discuss current market trends. Take a free tour of Freedom Village and learn all about Life Care, too.

Friday, April 8 • 4 p.m.

Life Care Seminar Followed by a Musical Event – Join us for a Life Care Seminar and a Real Estate Update with Steven DuToit and John Buice from Keller Williams. Then join us for dinner prepared by our own professional chef, but don’t leave! At 7:15 p.m. it’s live entertainment at its musical finest with the River Wilderness Country Club Choir. Dinner dress required.

Tuesday, April 12 • 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Hobbies & Collectibles Show – Bring in your valuables and Roger Wilson, a professional antiques and art appraiser will tell you what they are worth. If you’d like, you can join us for a Real Estate Update luncheon seminar at 12:30 p.m. with Steven DuToit and John Buice from Keller Williams.

Seating is limited and reservations are required for all April events.

Call today to hold your reservation: (941) 798-8122 A Life Care Community Exceptional Experiences Every DaySM 6406 21st Avenue West Bradenton, FL 34209 www.brookdaleliving.com Exceptional Experiences Every Day is a Service Mark of Brookdale Senior Living Inc., Nashville, TN, USA • 51280EF-ROP01-0411

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

DO YOU KNOW WHERE YOUR RETIREMENT SAVINGS ARE?

By Ernie B. Garcia Senior Vice President - Wealth Management

A

Traditional IRA here... A rollover

investment results when all your retirement

IRA there... Four job changes

savings are in one place.

(so far!) and three retirement

• Less paper: By consolidating your

plan account balances left in the plans of

accounts, you will receive one statement

former employers.

instead of several. That simplifies your life

Over the years, you may have accumulated

while protecting the environment.

a significant sum in various retirement

• Lower costs: Reducing the number

accounts. While keeping those assets

of accounts may result in reducing your

in various accounts at different financial

account

institutions isn’t necessarily a bad thing,

charges.

there is a strong case for consolidating

• Easy-to-calculate Required Minimum

them into one account with the same

Distributions (“RMDs”): Once you reach

financial institution.

fees

and

other

investment

age 70 1⁄2, having fewer retirement accounts to manage means fewer RMDs from your Traditional IRAs to calculate every year.

Why Consolidate?

• Knowing where your assets are:

Consolidating your retirement savings, where appropriate, offers

retirement plan is terminated or abandoned (an “orphan plan”) or is

several benefits including:

merged with or transferred to a retirement plan of another corporation

• Comprehensive investment strategy: Over time, your investment

after you leave, it may be difficult to locate the plan administrator to

objectives and risk tolerance may have changed. Thus, it can be

request a distribution of your benefits or to change investments. Your

difficult to maintain an effective retirement investment strategy—one

IRA assets are always accessible if you want to change your investment

that accurately reflects your current goals, timing and risk tolerance—

strategy or need to take a distribution.

If your employer-sponsored

when your savings are spread out among multiple financial institutions. Once you begin the consolidation process, you can

What Can Be Consolidated?

choose investments that match your current goals and objectives.

Regardless of how many different types of retirement accounts you

• Greater investment flexibility: Often, 401(k) plans or other employer-

have or where they’re held, they may be eligible for consolidation.

sponsored retirement programs—and even many IRAs—have limited

Including:

investment menus. A self-directed IRA like the one offered by Morgan

• IRAs held at financial institutions (banks, credit unions, mutual fund

Stanley Smith Barney generally offers you the ability to choose from

companies, etc.).

a wide range of investments including stocks, bonds, mutual funds,

• Retirement plan assets held at former employers including:

managed accounts and more.

• 401(k) plans

• Simplified tracking: It is easier to monitor your progress and

• Profit-sharing plans

Wealth Planning ou Can Build On • Money purchase plans

on IRS Tax Form 5498.

• Defined benefit plans

• Indirect rollover from qualified plan to an IRA: Like the IRA-to-IRA

• Keogh plans

rollover, you can ask your previous employer(s) to send you a check

• ESOP plans

for your vested plan balance and then redeposit those funds into an

• Government 457(b) plans

IRA or other qualified retirement plan within 60 days. However, the

• 403(b) plans

plan trustee will be required to withhold 20% of the taxable portion of the distribution as mandatory federal withholding. You will need to

Consolidating Your Retirement Savings Is Easier Than You Think

make up that 20% when you redeposit the funds into an IRA or the

Depending on the types of retirement assets you want to consolidate,

amount withheld will be subject to taxes and possibly penalties if you

there are several ways to combine them into a single account.

are under age 59 1⁄2.

• IRA-to-IRA transfers: Ask the IRA custodian where you will be

Speak with your tax advisor about these and other rules that may

ass investment advice is an important part of a comprehensive wealth

is advice establishing about youryour estate, your business, your philanthropic giving, your apply when consolidating retirement plan assets. account to help you complete their IRA-transfer

ed stock position and your lending Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, paperwork.

Once you’ve set upneeds. your IRA,Atthe custodian will do the

a full range services to helpyour youprevious grow,IRA protect and transfer wealth.

Final Thoughts about Consolidation rest,ofincluding contacting custodian(s) to get youryourSome assets moved over. There’s no limit on the number of IRA-to-IRA

Notwithstanding the many benefits to consolidating your retirement

accounts, there are also some caveats to keep in mind. For example, transfers that you can complete in any given year. (However, please email me for a complimentary consultation to discuss how I can note that a Roth IRA can be consolidated only with another Roth IRA.)

while many qualified plans allow for loans, you cannot take a loan

• IRA-to-IRA rollovers: You can ask your current IRA custodian to

from an IRA. Thus, once you rollover a qualified plan into an IRA, the

send you a check for the amount invested in your IRA. You will then

ability to take a loan is no longer available. Note: Few qualified plans

have 60 days to deposit the funds into another IRA without incurring

allow loans to be taken out by former employees.

any current tax liability. Note that your former IRA custodian will report

Another consideration is required minimum distributions. Upon

the amount as a distribution on IRS Tax Form 1099-R; your new IRA

reaching age 70 1⁄2, owners of a Traditional IRA must begin taking

u with your wealth planning goals and objectives.

010-PS-1725

Ernie B. Garcia

custodian will report the rollover contribution on IRS Tax Form 5498.

required minimum distributions or face stiff IRS penalties. If the plan

permits, qualified plan participants can delay taking required minimum Senior Vice President - Wealth Management distributions if they are still working after attaining age 70 1/2.

IRA-to- IRA rollovers areSenior restrictedInvestment to one every 365 days per IRA.Consultant Management If you miss the 60-day time period, taxes and penalties may apply.

• Direct rollover from qualified plan to an IRA: Ask your previous

2 North Tamiami Trail, Suite 1100 employer(s) about the paperwork needed to complete a direct rollover Sarasota, Florida 34236

That said, combining your retirement assets in a single IRA can help you take control of your financial future. Your tax and financial

of your qualified retirement plan assets to your IRA. The assets will be

advisors will be able to assist you in determining if consolidation

transferred once you complete the paperwork. Note that your former

makes sense given your specific circumstances and goals. But

employer’s plan will report the amount as a distribution on IRS Tax

don’t wait any longer to find out. Your retirement will be here sooner

Form 1099-R; the IRA custodian will report the rollover contribution

than you think.

941.364.7405 800.237.9441 ext. 405

ernie.b.garcia@mssb.com www.fa.smithbarney.com/ernie_garcia

Ernie B. Garcia Senior Vice President - Wealth Management Senior Investment Management Consultant 27 Years of Experience Ernie B. Garcia is a Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney located in Sarasota, Florida and may be reached at 941.364.7405 or www.fa.smithbarney.com/ernie_garcia.

2 North Tamiami Trail, Suite 1100 Sarasota, Florida 34236

Call Ernie Garcia for a complimentary consultation Articles are published for general information purposes and are not an offer or a solicitation to sell or buy any securities or commodities. Any particular investment should and second opinion of your investment portfolio. be analyzed based on its terms andStanley risks as Smith they relate to your specific circumstances Morgan Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Smith Barney and objectives. Clients should always check with their tax and legal advisor before Financial Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. This material was not intended engaging in any transaction involving IRAs or other tax-advantaged investments.

941.364.7405 800.237.9441 ext. 405

or written to be used for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties that may be imposed

Tax laws are complex andon subject to change.

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, itsfor matters involving taxation the taxpayer.

Clients should consult their tax advisor affiliates and Morgan Stanley Smith Financial Advisors do not provide tax or legal trust and estate planning and tax Barney planning and their attorney for matters involving advice. This material was not intended or written to be used for the purpose of avoiding ernie.b.garcia@mssb.com and other legal matters. tax penalties that may be imposed on the taxpayer.

Individuals are urged to consult their www.fa.smithbarney.com/ernie_garcia personal tax or legal advisors to understand the tax and related consequences of any actions or investments described herein.

©2010 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC

06/2010 GP10-01315P-Y06/10

© 2010 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC

scene | social

View all photos at scenesarasota.com

Archie Griffin Celebrity Golf Classic Pro-Am C oncession Charities from The Concession Golf Club recently hosted the inaugural Archie Griffin Celebrity Golf Classic Pro-Am.

Griffin and other sports celebrities with ties to The Ohio State University, Photography by Cliff Roles

played with Concession members and OSU alumni. The five-star event benefited the All Children’s Hospital Foundation. Event proceeds will enable the Heart Center at ACH to provide better care for the children and position ACH for success in meeting All Children’s Hospital’s needs “one child at a time.” The Concession Charities, which facilitates fundraising events for The Concession Golf Club, is dedicated to helping worthy nonprofits improve the quality of life for every member of the Sarasota/Bradenton community, www.concessioncharities.org.

Raymont Harris, Eddie George, Archie Griffin, Vahé Gabriel & Mike Doss

Russ Rogers, Isaac Curtis & Tony Dorsett

scene |

April 2011

Rich Gerrity, Andrew Allen, Sherry Cassidy & Robert Smith

Keith & Margaret Byars with Dr. James Quintessenza

Jim Jackson, Lori Ann, Ann Marie & Lou Marinaccio

18

Willie “Chico” Nelson, Barry Carlstedt & Otto Jack, Jr.

John Hicks & Kim McNeal

Cindy & Bruce Cassidy, Sr. with Chuck Whirlow & Bryan Snyder scenesarasota.com

The Concession Golf Club

COME ENJOY A SLICE OF PARADISE

L

iving in the “Sunshine State” golfers have the opportunity to play some of the finest private clubs in the country like Seminole, Jupiter Hills and Black Diamond.

Quickly rising into that elite group is a relative newcomer, The Concession Golf

Club, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course designed in association with Tony Jacklin.

The Concession was conceived in commemoration of the 1969 Ryder Cup singles match between the two where Nicklaus conceded a putt to Jacklin. That gesture, known as “the concession”, rendered the two teams in a 17-17 tie. The United States retained the Ryder Cup having won it in 1967. That moment marked the beginning of a lasting friendship between the two men and inspired one of America’s great golf clubs.

The Concession, which holds one of the highest Course and Slope Ratings by the USGA in the United States, offers every amenity associated with the world’s most privileged golf clubs. The Concession features an 18-hole par-72 golf course set on 520 acres of ruggedly pristine land dotted with massive oaks and majestic pines. Complementing the

7700 Lindrick Lane | Bradenton, FL 34202 941-322-1922 | www.theconcession.com

7,470-yard championship golf course is one of the country’s largest private practice areas

A testament to unwavering quality

recognized by Golf Digest as one of the “75 Best Practice Areas in the United States.” The vast

2006 Golf Digest Best New Private Golf Course (#1)

23-acre practice facility features a dual-ended driving range, which includes an elevated tee area, a 10,000-square-foot flat and undulating putting green and a 14,000-square-foot flat and undulating chipping green. Both the putting and chipping greens offer several bunkers, giving members the opportunity to recreate every shot on the golf course.

2007/2008 Golf Digest Best in State - Florida (#5) 2008 Golfweek Best Modern Courses (#45) 2009 GOLF Magazine Top 100 Courses in the U.S. (#88) 2009 Golf Digest 75 Best Practice Areas (#69) 2011 Golfweek Best Residential Courses (#18)

H C T A W Y T I R B E L E C E N E SC PHOTOS BY CLIFF

The winter winds were in full force as Sarasota saw lots of celebrities blow through town.

The name Ringling was usually involved and our Sarasota Ballet brought in a force twelve gale as well.

20

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April 2011

ROLES

Actor Bill Paxton was part of the visiting filmmaker component of Ringling College of Art & Design’s Digital Filmmaking Studio Lab Program. Other elements of the 2011 program, which benefits Ringling College filmmaking students and the greater Sarasota region, incorporate industry expertise, academic excellence, and economic development.

Johan Kobborg, principal dancer with the Royal Ballet in London and one of the top dancers of today, visited Sarasota Ballet director Iain Webb to collaborate on a new version of Out of Denmark, which they originally produced together in London at Queen Elizabeth Hall.

Mikhail Baryshnikov, the living legend of Ballet, popped by the Historic Asolo Theater to announce plans for the 2011 Ringling International Arts Festival.

Britain’s former Prime Minister Tony Blair and his wife, Cherie, a human rights attorney and advocate for women’s equality worldwide, each facinated their audience at a Ringling College Library Association’s Town Hall Lecture Series event. scenesarasota.com

scene | social

View all photos at scenesarasota.com

Moffitt Cancer Center’s Women’s Cancer Awareness Luncheon M ore than 300 guests attended the 12th Annual Women’s Cancer

Photography by Cliff Roles

Awareness Luncheon at The Ritz-Carlton helping to raise

$80,000 toward breast and gynecologic cancer research at Moffitt Cancer Center. Eileen Curd served as the event chair and medical journalist Heidi Godman moderated a panel of Moffitt cancer experts who shared updates on groundbreaking research, clinical trials and advanced treatment options. Presenting sponsors were Joan Mendell; The Milman-Kover Family Charitable Foundation, Susan F. Milman as Katie Biter, Barbara Portanova & Monica Barth

Trustee; Rickie and Jana Paley; and Lee Peterson.

Charlene Wolff & Eileen Curd

Heather Dunhill & Pauline Joerger

Graci McGillicuddy & Kathryn Carr

Christine Phillips & Christine Roemer

More than a rare stone...

Jewelry. Most of us wear it, many of us love it and some of us are looking for the unique pieces that set our style.

Marian Strickland Registered Gemologist

Member ISG, JEA, AGTA

The stones we seek out are lively and exhibit exquisite color.

They have personalities of their own and as I design, they dance around my sketches and make their demands. Our gems love to be surrounded by diamonds and set in 14 or 18k gold. We agree!

Colored Gemstones that you may think you are familiar with, such as Tourmaline and Garnet actually cover a delicious range of colors and properties. Indicolite, Rubellite and Pariaba Tourmalines are exquisite and rare. The six major types of Garnet include a wonderful array of colors and characteristics, including color change.

scenesarasota.com

Iolite is a lovely shade of violet blue but it is not a new stone.

In fact, Leif Eriksson used thin pieces of Iolite as a polarizing filter for navigation.

Sapphires come in every color of the rainbow except red, and red is called a Ruby. The ability to see two or even three colors in a sapphire is entrancing.

Tanzanite is mined only in Tanzania and was given its name by Tiffany & Co. It is best known for its blue/purple color, but even more rare are the“fancy”colored zoisites in pink, green, orange and yellow.

Colored Gemstones are intoxicating! Want to learn more? Browse through our website, drop into our store or visit us here next month!

Available at The Golden Image Jewelry Store 30 South Palm Ave., Downtown Sarasota 941.364.8439 • www.mymkdesigns.com

April 2011

| scene

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Our team specializes in a French Haircutting System that results in wash and wear hair containing several different looks in each style. Your appointment at CUTTING LOOSE begins with our unique Lather Lounge Experience including a relaxing head and neck massage. Sip a drink of your choice while watching your hair designer formulate your special color in our interactive Color Cafe. Before your appointment is over, take advantage of our Pamper Lounge Spa to rejuvenate yourself with a Swedish or Thai Massage, or an incredible Biolage Facial.

�������

this ad to receive a complimentary express facial or chair massage with your appointment!

Color | Shine | Blonding | Keratin Straightening | Special Occasion Styles Makeup | Pamper Lounge | Facials | Massage | Waxing

941.358.6000 | www.CuttingLooseSalonandSpa.com University Pkwy at 8429 Honore Avenue | University Park, FL . 34201

bescene

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

Photo: Cliff Roles

25th Annual Run for the Turtles 04-02 7:30 am Siesta Key Public Beach, Sarasota. One mile fun walk/ run and a 5K with prizes for various categories. Benefits Mote Marine Laboratory’s Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Program.

Tickets: $25 / 941.388.4441 ext. 357 / mote.org/turtlerun

Senior Friendship Center Gala 04-02 5:30 pm Sarasota Yacht Club. Benefits the Senior Friendship Centers for Healthy Aging. Tickets: $75 / friendshipcenters.org

“Great Gatsby” Orchid Ball 04-02 6:00 pm Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Sarasota. The Gardens is celebrating 30 years of the Orchid Ball. Benefits Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Tickets: $250 / 941.366.5731 ext. 229 / selby.org

AJC’s 2011 Human Relations Award Dinner honoring Gerri Aaron 04-03 6:00 pm Michael’s On East Sarasota. The American Jewish Committee’s prestigious Human Relations Award is given annually to individuals who respond to the immediate needs of their community and are instrumental in helping others reach their highest goals. Tickets: $250 / 941.365.4955 / ajc.org

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April 2011

scenesarasota.com

Immerse ImmerseYourself SFF20 11

Sarasota

Film Festival

April 7-17, 2011 11 days of fantastic ďŹ lms & spectacular events!

Tickets On Sale Now! Box Office located inside Regal Hollywood 20 1993 Main Street, Sarasota. 941.366.6200

Get up to the minute updates & purchase online at SarasotaFilmFestival.com Design Courtesy of Bluescape Creative, LLC Äą Illustration Courtesy of Vince Fraser

2010 2011

TM

S E A S O N Leif Bjaland, Artistic Director & Conductor

Irving BERLIN George GERSHWIN and Aaron COPLAND

Inventing

the

American SOUND

See the story. Hear the music.

This narrated multimedia concert experience tells the stories of three sons of immigrants who invented the “American Sound.” The concert will feature Copland’s Appalachian Spring, Berlin’s Blue Skies, and excerpts from Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue.

Saturday, May 7, 4:00 & 8:00 pm | Sarasota Opera House TICKETS FROM $25

www.SarasotaOrchestra.org | 941-953-3434 Paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues.

Come as you are.

Leave different.

Starry Night Dinner Series

�

atre’s entire 2010-2011 season. Tickets: $200 / 941.351.9010

�

04-04 6:30 pm The Asolo Rep Mainstage. Celebrates the theext. 4712 / asolorep.org

New College’s 25th Annual Pique-nique sur la Baie 04-06 11:30 am New College Bayfront. Featuring a fabulous luncheon and fashion show. Benefits New College Library Association. Tickets: $125 / 941.487.4600 / ncf.edu

Laughter Unlimited Luncheon

Marjorie North’s “Get the Scoop” Luncheon 04-06 11:30 am Asolo Repertory Theatre. Join Angel chair and former social columnist for the Sarasota Herald-Tribune Marjorie North for her exclusive luncheons where you will get the inside scoop about Asolo Rep and its production. Tickets: $25 - $45 / 941.351.9010 ext. 4702 / asolorep.org

2011 Sarasota Film Festival 04-07 – 04-17 Various times and locations. This year, the Sarasota Film Festival marks its 13th year of providing excellent films, events, and other programming to our Gulf Coast community.

941.364.9514 / sarasotafilmfestival.com

11th Annual Artist Brunch & Fashion Show 04-09 10:30 am Bradenton’s Village of the Arts. Featuring DJ Tommy DiSarro, models displaying wearable art and fashion, and sculptures and paintings from Village artists, all hosted by Realize Bradenton. Tickets: $25 / 941.302.1069

5th Annual 65 Roses Golf Classic

Tuesday, April 26, 2011 Hyatt Regency Sarasota Ballroom Doors Open at 11:00 am Lunch and Program at 11:30 am A complimentary lunch will be served Reservations Required For more information or reservations, call 941.355.9335 or email scott@circussarasota.org

04-09 12:00 pm Founders Club. The event will provide golfers with a great opportunity to entertain clients or friends and reward employees, while helping to raise funds for cutting edge cystic fibrosis research. Benefits Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Tickets: $225 / 813.374.9041 / cff.org

MHCC’s Living with Mental Illness 04-09 2:00 pm Sarasota Opera House. A free community event. One of broadcasting’s most respected, award-winning

Laughter Unlimited is a unique program presented

by Circus Sarasota, enriching the lives of ‘children of all ages’ in hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other institutions by bringing the gifts of joy, wonder, laughter and hope to those who need it most.

journalists, well-known mental health advocate and best-selling author Jane Pauley speaks of her Bi-Polar disorder and personal journey of self-reflection and wellness. Ms. Pauley will be followed by a Panel Discussion and Question & Answer Period. Tickets: Free, register online for tickets / 941.917.7777 / mhcci.com scenesarasota.com

April 2011

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27

Lakewood Ranch Community Fund Gala

Dance Theater. Luncheon and Discussion to follow rehearsal with

04-09 7:00 pm the Fete Ballroom at Polo Grill. A night of fabulous

Iain Webb, Director of the Sarasota Ballet, and Dominic Walsh,

Asian-inspired fare, theme entertainment and late night dancing

Founder and Director of Dominic Walsh Dance Theater. Tickets:

with Jonathan Cortez, complete with a live auction & chance draw-

$40 / 941.544.7612 / designingwomenboutique.org

ing featuring fine jewelry, travel & local experiences and chaired by Vanessa Baugh of Vanessa Fine Jewelry on Main Street. Benefits

Child Advocacy Luncheon

organizations supported annually by the Lakewood Ranch Com-

04-12 11:00 am Hyatt Regency, Sarasota. Benefits the Junior

munity Fund. Tickets: $150 / 941. 556.5442 / lwrfund.org

League of Sarasota. Tickets: $65 / 941.953.5600 / jlsarasota.org

Men Who Cook

Giving Matters Luncheon featuring Barbara Metzler

04-10 6:00 pm Longboat Key Club & Resort. Featuring promi-

04-13 11:30 am – 1:30 pm Michael’s On East. Giving Matters is

nent, local business and community men coming together to

committed to educating and inspiring women of all ages to real-

prepare a dinner filled with their favorite recipes. Tickets: $150 /

ize that they can make a positive difference through philanthropic

941.351.9010 ext. 4712 / asolo.org

deeds. Tickets: $40 / 921.5410 / afpfl@verizon.net

Sarasota Ballet Association Luncheon

Celebration of Hope Dinner

04-11 11:30 am Michael’s On East. Benefits the Sarasota Ballet.

04-13 6:00 pm Polo Grill, Lakewood Ranch. Presenting the Cel-

Tickets: $27 / 822.0198

ebration of Hope Keystone Awards recognizing two exceptional local individuals for their dedication and outstanding contribution

Ballet & Buffet

to the local cancer community. Benefits Cancer Support Com-

04-12 11:00 am FSU Center for the Performing Arts. Private

munity Florida Suncoast. Tickets: $100 / 921.5539 /

In-Studio Rehearsal of the Sarasota Ballet and Dominic Walsh

cancersupportsuncoast.org

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April 2011

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Joseph Caulkins, ar�s�c director

April 30, 2011

Tickets $25

7:30 p.m.

Sarasota Municipal Auditorium

General Admission

The area premiere of Brahms’ beloved “German Requiem” in his seldom performed arrangement for mixed chorus and piano duet.

Tickets: Call 941-921-4845 or visit

www.keychorale.org wsmr89.1 classical

Paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax revenues

JOIN US FOR A MYTHICAL EVENING

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CHILDREN FIRST � 1723 N. ORANGE AVENUE, SARASOTA, FL 34243 � (941) 953-3877 � WWW.CHILDRENFIRST.NET

Cinema Tropicale

29th Annual Suncoast Boat Show

04-13 7:00 pm Sarasota Yacht Club, 1100 John Ringling Boule-

04-15 - 04-17 Various Times. Marina Jack, #2 Marina Plaza, Sara-

vard, Sarasota. A sultry night of tropical fun; dance to Caribbean

sota. Boat races, marine electronics and products for sale, food

beats while enjoying the warm ocean breeze, cocktails, and ca-

and beverages on site. Tickets: $8 at the gate, $6 online. Kids

sual cuisine. Come kick-back and relax or cha-cha and mambo

under 15 free / 954.764.7642 / showmanagement.com

the night away! sarasotafilmfestival.com

American Red Cross Mad Hatter Spring Tea

“Playdate” at the Asolo – Buffet & Matinee “Las Meninas”

04-14 2:00 pm Home of Ping Faulhaber. Don’t miss your op-

04-16 12:30 PM Asolo Repertory Theater. Featuring a Word of

portunity to catch up with girl friends, learn more about the Red

Mouth luncheon buffet, followed by matinee performance of “Las

Cross and see the Faulhaber’s amazing home. Tickets: $50 /

Meninas.” An informative panel discussion follows the perfor-

941.379.9300 ext 255 / risslern@usa.redcross.org

mance. Benefits Sarasota Arts and Humanities charities. Tickets: $40 / 941.544.7612 / designingwomenboutique.org

DWB Mega Sale: Estate & Contemporary Designer Jewelry/Furs & Fine Fashion

SPARCC Prince and Princess Ball

04-15 & 04-16 10:00 am Designing Women Boutique. A special

04-16 5:00 pm Girls Scouts Conference Center. Benefits Safe

two-day sale featuring high-end estate and contemporary design-

Place and Rape Crisis Center (SPARCC). Tickets: $40-$60 /

er jewelry, including precious/semi-precious stones & diamonds,

941.365.0208 ext. 106 / sparcc.net

along with fine vintage and artisan silver jewelry and objects of art. Benefits Sarasota Arts & Humanities charities. 941.544.7612

Mote’s Party on the Pass

/ designingwomenboutique.com

04-16 6:00 pm Mote Aquarium. Enjoy a fabulous fundraiser in Mote’s colorful courtyard. Tickets: $100 / 941.388.4441 ext. 509 / mote.org

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April 2011

| scene

31

10th Annual Cattle-Barons’ Ball “White Out Cancer”

p.m. Includes activities for all ages, environmental booths, food

04-16 6:30 pm Michael’s On East. Benefits American Cancer So-

sofoscarscherer.com

ciety. Tickets $200 / 941.328.3760

vendors, live music and the annual photography exhibit. friend-

The Community Video Archives Luncheon

Sarasota Film Festival Filmmaker Tribute

04-21 11:30 am Michael’s On East. Honoring Dr. Gordon E.

04-16 7:00 pm Sarasota Opera House. An evening dedicated to

Michalson, Ulla Searing, Margaret L. Callihan and Renee Ha-

the celebration of the art of film, featuring a star-studded line-

mad. Tickets: $75 / 941.875.1855

up of presenters and honorees. Christopher Plummer will be on hand to accept this year’s Cinema Master Award along with other

The Take Over: A Youth Culture Festival

special guests. 941.364.9514 / sarasotafilmfestival.com

04-23 12:00 pm Sarasota Fairgrounds. Combines a variety of live music, electron music lounge DJs, live graffiti, skateboard-

60’s Night with the Marauders

ing and BMX demos, theatre performances, an affordable

04-16 7:00 pm McKechnie Field 1611 9th St. W. Dress in your

contemporary art market, a petting zoo, mobile arcade and

best 60s attire to win great prizes; enjoy 60s music and con-

more. Benefits the Suncoast Charities for Children. Tickets:

tests throughout the game, plus a post-game concert by Yes-

$18 / thetakeoversrq.com

terdayze. Benefits the Bradenton Marauders. Tickets: $5-$7 / 877.893.2827 / pirates.com

Laughter Unlimited Luncheon 04-26 11:00 am Hyatt Regency Ballroom. Presented by Circus

Earth Day at Oscar Scherer State Park

Sarasota and benefitting its program to bring joy and laugh-

04-17 10:00 am Oscar Scherer State Park. Celebrate Earth Day

ter to hospitals and other institutions. Reservations required.

on April 17 with free admission to the park from 10 a.m. to 4

941.355.9335

The Academy for Leadership and Social Development “Education during the formative years on topics such as developing good manners and leadership skills, setting personal goals, and coping with everyday challenges, is imperative in helping our youth realize and achieve their life aspirations.”

- Stephanie L. Hefner, Founder The Academy for Leadership and Social Development (a not-for-profit organization) brings educational curriculum to children and teens that introduce character development tools, basic communication skills, and civility. Adolescents empowered with the knowledge of values, respect, and integrity are more likely to make healthy choices and avoid a downward spiral of conflict, truancy and crime. Programs and seminars are offered to schools, nonprofit organizations and after-school groups. Each area of subject matter offered by the Academy has proven to be effective in directing adolescents toward making positive decisions and utilizing basic life lessons in their daily lives, whether at school, work, home or on the playground.

For further information about the Academy for Leadership and Social Development contact Stephanie L. Hefner Founder/CEO at ceo@academyforleadership.net or 941.487.4076. scenesarasota.com

April 2011

| scene

33

Salon Series Mini-Lecture, Luncheon & Style Show

Food Festival features food from Paul Mattison and eight interna-

04-28 11:30 am Designing Women Boutique. Globe-trotting author

tionally renowned chefs, dance competitions, local art exhibits,

and film producer Desi K. Bognar speaks on “Talking Drums of West

children’s activities, and more. nyproduction.net

Africa and Other Stories”. Benefits Sarasota Arts & Humanities Charities. Tickets: $16 / 941.544.7612 / designingwomenboutique.org

21st Annual Florida Winefest & Auction

16th Annual YMCA Tropical Nights Dinner & Auction 04-30 5:00 pm Palm Island Resort. A fabulous evening of gourmet dining, dancing, bidding and fun. Benefits the YMCA Chil-

04-28 - 05-01 Various time and locations. Enjoy a world-class food

dren and Family Scholarship Fund. Tickets: $150 / 941.475.1234

& wine experience with winemaker dinners, tastings, dancing and

/ southcountyfamilyymca.org

more! Tickets: $15 - $200 / 941.952.1109 / floridawinefest.org

Fabulous Foxes and Hot Mamas Luncheon

Casual Gourmet Dinner Series: Grazing Dinner 04-30 6:30 pm Local residence to be provided upon receipt

04-30 11:30 am Michael’s On East. A fun afternoon for daugh-

of payment. Enjoy a fabulous evening hosted at a special pri-

ters, mothers, grandmothers, sisters, and girlfriends to cele-

vate home of one of the Friends of Designing Women Boutique.

brate Mother’s Day. Luncheon, fashion show, raffle, gifts, sur-

Benefits Sarasota Arts and Humanities charities. Tickets: $50 /

prises, and more. Benefits United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota

941.544.7612 / designingwomenboutique.org

Manatee, Inc. Tickets: $65, Women 5-19 $40 / 941.957.3599 /

Save The Date:

ucpsarasota.org

5-06 10th Annual Physicians Golf Tournament

Dance, Art & Food Festival

5-14 Children First Celebration Gala

04-30 2:00 pm Van Wezel. The inaugural outdoor Dance, Art &

5-20 Dick Vitale Gala

5TH ANNUAL LUNCHEON

PAWS ON THE

CATWALK

Shopping and summer fashions presented by

L. Boutique, Shore + Foxy Lady

BENEFITING THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF SARASOTA COUNTY, INC.

ANIMAL MAGNETISM

Join us May 13th at 11:30 am

at Michaels on East

$75 a ticket Sponsorships starting at $1,000

www.hssc.org 941.955.4131 x 121 for more information

in your hottest animal print attire 34

scene |

April 2011

scenesarasota.com

Premieres a

Spectacular Estate Sale April 15 - 16, 2011 (Fri. 10-5; Sat. 10-4) Unique estate & contemporary designer jewelry & fashion collections 50% off Appraised values

• Diamonds: precious and semi-precious stones • Vintage and Artisan silver jewelry/objets d’art • World class furs & designer fashions Complimentary admission Reservations requested (Dealers: Pre-registration required) Contact our Event Line: 941.544.7612

Photos: Jessica Kurant; Model: Rochelle Nigri

1226 North Tamiami Trail at 13th St. Sarasota, FL 34236 designingwomenboutique@comcast.net DesigningWomenBoutique.org

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BY RYAN G.

VAN CLEAVE

Scene Magazine is pleased to pay tribute to the John Ringling tradition

of supporting local art and artists with “The Ringling Art Experience”.

Each featured artist has a connection with the Ringling Museum of Art or the school named in his honor, The Ringling College of Art and Design. What better way to continue John Ringling’s commitment to art and culture than to provide a forum for the exciting new work being created right here on the Culture Coast?

This month’s featured artist is Matthew Holler, a senior in Photography and Digital Imaging at the Ringling College of Art & Design. With a strong interest in fashion photography, Holler is plugged into the Sarasota fashion scene in a way that few others are, which makes him an ideal artist to introduce in our “Style & Beauty” issue.

“I’ve discovered that there are many ‘closet’ garment and jewelry designers residing in Sarasota,” Holler explains. “The city has so much potential for a fashion scene — we boast a number of beautiful locations, it’s less expensive to conduct a fashion shoot here than in New York City, and the light in the Sunshine State is tremendous.” But with all the perks for fashion that we do enjoy, it’s not among our largest industries. Fashion is a complex, nuanced business. As Holler notes, one of the real challenges is that “you have to be both commercial and conceptual. Plus you risk constant scrutiny of your techniques and concepts.” He points out that it’s not all that difficult to get an alreadybeautiful model to look beautiful, then take some beautiful photos. The real goal for a photographer is to create a body of art that speaks to viewers long after this month’s covers are gone from the bookstore shelves. Developing that keen sensibility is one of the real challenges for aspiring fashion photographers to overcome.

Clearly Holler’s well on his way since his own fashion photos have appeared on the cover of Creative Loafing and in the pages of Perspectives Magazine. He also shot photos for Ava Gray, a garment label, in New York this past August.

One of the real pleasures in fashion photography is the opportunity to work in an intensely creative group environment. Holler says, “Instead of taking your equipment into a studio or a location with the model, you are part of a team of creative minds who work together.

I find it very satisfying to be the one who records this. There’s also an energy in the fashion world that’s just contagious.”

With local artists and designers, Holler recently gave an exhibition/runway show entitled “Industry” to help bring attention to Sarasota’s growing fashion scene. That kind of commitment to raise our area’s interest in fashion (and, perhaps, our fashion IQs) is getting pretty contagious too. Perhaps we’ll soon see more catwalks and divas than snowbirds and sunburns! To learn more about Matthew Holler or to see more of his fashion photography, please visit: www.matthewholler.com Ryan G. Van Cleave (ryangvancleave.com) is a Sarasota-based freelance writer & writing coach. scenesarasota.com

April 2011

| scene

39

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Dream Weaver’s collection of Mashiah, their newest designer from Germany, includes signature pieces all permanently pleated in great, body flattering, architectural shapes, unusual dresses, skirts, tops and coats.

An incredible collection!

LEFT: Black taffeta Jacket with iridescent silk pants by Mashiah.

RIGHT: Body flattering coral dress to fit every woman’s figure.

scene | arts & culture PRESENTED BY:

April in Sarasota provides ample opportunity to be showered with inspiration. Experience the “music of friends”, celebrate arts education, rub shoulders with Harry Connick Jr. and witness live art in the great outdoors.

1

1.) YouthArts Fest April 2, 2011, 10:45 am - 5:00 pm

2

Celebrate arts education at YouthArts Fest from 10:45a.m. – 5:00p.m. on Saturday, April 2nd at Five Points Park in downtown Sarasota. This event is free and open to the public. Over 500 students will showcase their talents in musical, choral, dance, and comedy performances throughout the day. 18 groups from local schools and arts organizations will be featured.

Selby Library will display an extensive student art exhibit and a room exclusively for screening student-made films. Local arts and cultural organizations will be exhibiting on the steps of the library to offer information on the summer and after-school programs, workshops and scholarship opportunities they offer to students. YouthArts Fest will feature hands-on arts

3

and crafts areas and plenty of kid-friendly food and drinks.

Why it matters: One of the top priorities of the Arts and Cultural Alliance (formerly the Arts Council) is to build support for arts education programs in Sarasota County’s schools. The Alliance hopes this showcase of the amazing artistic talents in local schools will inspire the community to ensure the arts remain an essential part of a complete education for students.

2.) 13th Annual Sarasota Film Festival April 7-17, 2011 The Sarasota Film Festival (SFF), one of the largest regional film festivals in the United States,

4

kicks off on April 7, celebrating at Sarasota’s Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall as they present music and film star, Harry Connick Jr. and his Orchestra. Over the next 10 days SFF will present over 180 narrative, documentary and short films from the U.S. and 42 countries around the world. Additionally SFF will feature events, on-stage conversations, young filmmaker workshops and screenings, community and local film partnerships and host over 100 attending filmmakers, producers, actors and industry guests.

Why it matters: Sarasota Film Festival Executive Board President Mark Famiglio said it best: “As a leading film organization in our region, we remain committed to supporting the work of world class filmmakers. We will continue to partner with other leaders in our community to

44

scene |

April 2011

scenesarasota.com

Straight from the

RUNWAY

Armani, Tory Burch, BCBG, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Shamask, Michael Kors, ABS, Prada, Chanel, St. John and many more…

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promote the Gulf Coast as a film friendly and film savvy destination, while our commitment to deliver an important artistic experience for our audiences, visitors and guests continues to grow.”

3.) La Musical International Chamber Music Festival April 1-15, 2011 La Musica International Chamber Music Festival celebrates its 25th anniversary this month. The theme for this celebratory year is “A Musical Jubilee.” Under the direction of Artistic Director Bruno Giuranna and Associate Artistic Director Derek Han, La Musica brings together the finest musicians from around the world to present inspired programs of familiar and unusual chamber music. This year’s festival will begin with the same program that started its journey 25 years ago, which includes Mozart’s “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.”

Why it matters: This is a rare opportunity to enjoy chamber music which has been described the “music of friends” due to its intimate nature. La Musica, now in its third decade, has established itself as an artistic and critical success and an outstanding American cultural institution.

Pat’s Cabinets:

April 16, 2011, 8:00 am – 1:00 pm

WHERE FURNITURE MEETS FINE ART

Watch as 50 local artists compete for the coveted prizes in the

Residential Commercial Custom Cabinets Purchased Cabinets Entertainment Rooms General Add-A-Room Remodel-A-Room Crown Trim Work Solid Surface Counter Tops Finished Carpentry

Englewood Art Center (EAC) at 7:30am on April 16th to receive

Two Sarasota Showrooms:

nerstone through several incarnations, most recently under the

2319 72nd Avenue East • 4425 Independence Court (941) 224-3247

You can dream it, we can build it!

46

4th Annual Plein Air Fest & Exhibition

scene |

April 2011

4th Annual Plein Air Fest & Exhibition. Artists will arrive at the their assignment. They will then race to Dearborn Street in Old Downtown Englewood to complete their assignment in the medium of their choice. They must return to the EAC by 2pm so a team of volunteers can frame the pieces for judging. A reception will be held at 7pm to reveal the winners. Tickets are $20 and proceeds benefit the EAC. Why it matters: This is a great opportunity to watch live art in the great outdoors. The paintings will be on exhibit for two weeks for your viewing pleasure. Englewood Art Center has a deep commitment to creative aging that grows out of their beginnings.

Established by a group of friends as the Englewood Guild of Artists and Craftsmen in 1967, it has continued to be a cultural corstewardship of Ringling College of Art & Design.

This is a merely a taste of a few upcoming events and by no means an exhaustive listing. Want to see more events? Head over to SarasotaArts.org for additional events, artist profiles and information about Sarasota’s exciting season of arts and culture. scenesarasota.com

scene | social

View all photos at scenesarasota.com

SO’s Behind the Mask Gala T he Sarasota Orchestra recently held their Behind the Mask Gala at the Ritz Carlton. Maestro Andrew Lane led the

Orchestra and Broadway vocalists in a concert highlighting

today’s hottest Broadway hits. A ballroom dance exhibition by International Dance Champions, Thomas Papkala and Frantiska Yordanova; along with a sumptuous dinner and dancing to the music of Double Vision concluded the wonderful event. The Gala is the Orchestra’s most important fundraiser of the season. The generosity of attendees and sponsors allows the Orchestra to keep the music playing and to support a variety of musical and

Photos courtesy of Sarasota Orchestra

youth educational programs.

Tee it up fore the

W omen’s R es o u r c e C e n t e r of Sarasota County, Inc.!

4t h A n n u a l S h a r o n M o n k

Golf Tournament OF

SARASOTA

Saturday, May 21, 2011 1:00 p.m. Shotgun Scramble 5:00 p.m. Cocktails & Dinner Linda Hoy & Shari Bench Co-Chairs

Margie & Chuck Barancik

Elisabeth & Gil Waters

Fabulous hole-in-one prizes—including a chance to win a Pebble Beach Golf Vacation valued at $10,000, outstanding door prizes coupled with great food and an awards ceremony! www.WRCGolfTournament11.Eventbrite.com Joyce & Bob Tate

Tina & George Skestos

Creating personal, social, and professional growth opportunities for all women, providing women with strategies for living that strengthen themselves, their families, & their communities.

RSVP by calling (941) 366-1700 $100 Includes Dinner Sponsorship Opportunities Available Anne Folsom Smith & Beathe Elden scenesarasota.com

Gerri Aaron & Marvin Albert April 2011

| scene

47

scene | social

View all photos at scenesarasota.com

Asolo Rep’s Studio 54 Disco Palace

A

solo Rep’s 2011 Gala – Studio 54 Disco Palace – Photography by Cliff Roles

was held at Hyatt Regency Sarasota. New event

Co-Chairs Beverly Bartner & Helen Sosso brought in over 250 people, many dressed in ‘70s disco garb, to support Asolo Rep and its 52nd Season. Asolo Rep is a world-renowned acting company known for producing the highest quality professional theatre in true rotating repertory. Deathtrap runs April 1 through Michael Donald Edwards

May 14.

Chris Currie

Cari Cascio & Richard Penix

Charlie Ann Syprett, Devereau Chumrau & Jim Syprett

Gil & Elisabeth Waters

Ron & Rita Greenbaum

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Making A

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This Maggie Sottero Destinations “Ribbon Dress” in white or ivory is the perfect choice for an informal wedding, rehearsal dinner, cakecutting ceremony or the latest craze – The After Party!

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View all photos at scenesarasota.com

Junior League’s Legacy Luncheon T Legacy Luncheon was held at Michael’s On East. This

year’s luncheon speaker was Ms. Lee Woodruff. Over 275 guests helped raise funds towards the organization’s mission of promoting voluntarism, developing women’s potential and training leaders to help improve our community. This year’s Luminary Sponsors were Coffrin Jewelers and Graci McGillicuddy.

Angie Stringer, Lee Woodruff, Barbara Barrett & Cheryl Burnstein

Belinda Coffrin & Sue Hoffman

Lisa Ward & Donna Mateer

Shelia Murray, Lynn White, Caroline Lawrence & Susan Purser

Photo by Chris Fitzgibbons

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Photography by Carissa Warfield

he 9th Annual Junior League of Sarasota Sustainer

Style, Beauty & Brains

By Sue Cullen

There was a time, in a land not all that far away, when beauty and brains were thought to mix only rarely — at least for women. If those bad old days are mostly behind us, then it is thanks in large part to women like those featured in the following pages. Their feminine beauty shines as bright and true as the intelligence that lights up their eyes and the talents they bring daily to their career. And what these brainy ladies do, they do with style, class and a great deal of passion. scenesarasota.com

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Heidi K. Anderson

MD, DERMATOLOGY & OCULOPLASTIC CONSULTANTS

otivated to care for the health and beauty of her patients, dermatologist Dr. Heidi Anderson’s own wholesome prettiness is her practice’s best advertising. However, her warmth, compassion and self-confidence are equally as attractive and quickly dispel the notion that beauty is only skin deep.

“I believe you can be humanitarian as well as businesslike. You can have self esteem and carry yourself well and still have style; you can have beauty without being seen as froufrou,” Anderson says. “I don’t think anyone wakes up and asks ‘Am I going to be beautiful and look stylish today?’ but they want to project self respect and (look stylish) and be sure they’ve evoked their inner beauty and personal style.” This pragmatic emphasis on what really rests at the heart of the matter, whether it is beauty, patients, friends, or her husband and children, defines Anderson’s method of tackling her goals and traversing life’s successful and not-so-successful moments. It was this down-to-earth approach that led Anderson, who is board certified in dermatology and pediatric trained, and her husband, Dr. Paul Brannan, a subspecialist in eyelid facial plastics

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(board certified ophthalmologist), to uproot successful careers, move their young family to Sarasota and establish Dermatology & Oculoplastic Consultants in Palmer Ranch. “One of the things that brought us to Sarasota was the search for balance, which is hard for us to incorporate into our lives,” she says. “Our kids understand we want to be involved in the community and meet our patients’ needs. It’s matter-of-fact for them. They know it’s what compels and motivates their parents.”

While feeling the weight of responsibility that comes with having a thriving medical practice with a staff of nine, staying involved in her children’s lives remains a continuing priority for Anderson. “We’ve put ourselves in a situation where so many people depend on us. That gets us going in the morning. We want to provide comprehensive care for our patients whether they need acne treatment or the precision of Mohs surgery for skin cancer. I also perform researched-backed cosmetic procedures,” Anderson said. “Being a big part of our children’s lives also is important. My husband coaches their baseball team, and I assist with soccer. I want my children to grow up with the ability and confidence to achieve their own success, manage their failures and maintain good balance.”

Looking at her own life, Anderson mulls the question of nature versus nurture. “My family exposed me to the arts, sports, academics and travel so I could figure out what makes me tick,” she said. “My parents never told me failure is not an option. They said success is attainable.”

While nurturing played an important role in her early years, Anderson’s inner drive pulled her through the challenging academics of science and medicine, grueling residency schedules,

“I want to practice to the best of my ability, staying current and educating my patients,” – HEIDI A NDERSON

completing a second residency with young children and tertiary care of patients with the most dire circumstances. She is a graduate of Princeton University, majoring in molecular biology and focusing on genetic counseling, and earned her medical degree at Wake Forest University School of Medicine before becoming double board certified in dermatology and pediatrics.

Today, this drive urges her to offer the best care possible. “I want to practice to the best of my ability, staying current and educating my patients,” Anderson said. “People underestimate medical dermatology. It offers so many avenues of understanding in both the genetics and science behind skin disorders as well as the beauty and cosmetic aspects. I realized that dermatology was a field that would fulfill my multifaceted interests.”

Anderson and her husband also have stepped forward to offer their skills to those less fortunate, sponsoring charitable events like the Ringling Run, PAL marathon, and the Palmer Ranch Spring Fest, taking their message of skin cancer prevention to these events and to educational sessions and screenings throughout the community. Anderson also is co-chairing Children First’s maiden gala fundraiser in May to support its programs of early child development and education. “What I will say to our kids when they get older is that I’ve been fortunate through my own struggles, successes and failures to become

Dermatology & Oculoplastic Consultants

confident in my own skin, not to make a pun,” she says. “It was hard sometimes, but if you

5880 Rand Boulevard, Suite 201

keep your eye on the prize you can do it. You have to stretch yourself. I want them to know

Sarasota, Florida 34238

it’s not always black and white. You can make an impact on the community while you are

(941) 925-3627

still evolving yourself. All of this is what develops your own inner beauty and presence.”

info@skineyedocs.com

And Anderson’s style of beauty lasts a lifetime.

www.skineyedocs.com

scenesarasota.com

Tommye E. Barie

CPA, CPA ASSOCIATES, PLC

eeming with an upbeat energy fueled by a passion for life, Tommye Barie packs more in her days than seems possible for mere mortals who must make due with just 24 hours. Of course, Barie doesn’t really have more than the usual allotment of time, but she does have a strong sense of what is true north for her and the ability to laser in on what is important professionally and personally.

“It’s really true. I am involved in a lot of things; not because I have to, but because I like to,” she says. “I’m passionate about my professional and personal life.” With a demanding position as Director of Audit and Assurance Services for CPA Associates, Barie, who is a Certified Public Accountant, dedicates her time to serving clients, providing organizational leadership and, now, ensuring a smooth transition as her firm joins the well-respected Mauldin & Jenkins to create a regional firm with offices in Georgia, Alabama and Florida effective June 1.

Her commitment to her work has meant active participation in the field’s leading professional organizations at the local, state and national levels. After serving on the state Board

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of Governors for the Florida Institute of CPAs, she was named to the organization’s Executive Committee and then served as its President in 2004-2005. She also is active with the American Institute of CPAs, serving on its Board of Directors, governing Council, audit committee, as a trustee for its foundation and chairing the National Accreditation Commission, the committee that oversees credentialing in four disciplines. “I love it. It just gets in your blood, and it’s important because it puts me in a position to help shape some important professional matters,” Barie says. “I have exceptional partners and team members who allow me the flexibility to do these other things, but even though I travel a fair amount, I stay accessible and responsive. I make sure work comes first.”

Barie says she is looking forward to working on the integration of Mauldin & Jenkins and CPA Associates when the combination is final in June, adding that the two are a good fit. CPA Associates has strength in tax compliance, audit and assurance, litigation, business valuations and consulting. Both firms have specialties in governmental auditing, and joining forces will allow growth in that area. Mauldin & Jenkins’ areas of expertise include banking and healthcare. “Our firm is more tax than audit. M&J is more audit than tax,” she said. “We compliment each other. It is a great fit and a win-win for clients, employees and the community.”

Although it is a little hard to see how Barie has time left over in her day, she is avid about fitness and health, attending Pilates classes several times a week, riding her bike, walking, snow skiing, and kite boarding. “I work hard, but I also have a lot of fun,” she says. “Some people don’t recognize the real benefits a full personal life has

“The level of client services, the high integrity of each CPA, and the uplifting environment, make it a notable place to work.”

– TOMMYE BARIE

on their professional life.” There’s more. She also serves as chair of the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee campus accounting advisory council and serves on the school of business advisory board as well as her alma mater Stetson University’s accounting advisory board.

The ability to maintain a very full lifestyle came from her childhood. Barie grew up in a small Eastern Kentucky town of 2,000 where her father, also an accountant, was general manager of the Rural Electric Company, and her parents also owned a jewelry store and a restaurant that were managed by her mother. “My work ethics and my values are deeplyrooted in the example my parents set,” she said. “They worked very hard to provide a good quality life for me, my brother and sister.” Barie says she knew at a very young age that she wanted to be an accountant. “When I was small, and the snow kept us out of school, I would sit at the kitchen table and help my Mom with cash disbursement journals,” she said, “and I liked it.”

Following graduation from Stetson, Barie decided she wanted to stay in Florida and spent

CPA Associates, PLC Certified Public Accountants and Consultants

the first part of her career in Vero Beach, relocating to Sarasota seven years ago. “It was

1301 Sixth Avenue West Suite 600

interesting starting over since all of my professional contacts and friends were in Vero.

Bradenton, Florida 34205

My partners here were so great in encouraging me to get out and get involved,” she said.

(941) 747-4483

“I had not spent a lot of time on the West Coast, but I found it’s much like Vero Beach in

tbarie@cpa-associates.com

that it’s very clean, very artsy and on the water. I love it here.” scenesarasota.com

www.cpa-associates.com April 2011

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Lynette Mancuso ATTORNEY, BURGESS, HARRELL, MANCUSO, OLSON & COLTON, P.A.

ynette Mancuso possesses that indefinable something called presence. It radiates from her trim, bodybuilder’s figure and escapes in sparkles from her rich brown eyes. Her essence tells you that this is a woman of many facets who brings her whole self to whatever she tackles and does not set limits on what is possible.

As a family law attorney and a founding partner in Burgess, Harrell, Mancuso, Olson & Colton, P.A., she serves as a legal warrior doing battle in her clients’ best interests. Yet she also works the other side of the spectrum as a mediator, assuming the role of peacemaker to ensure everyone in the dispute has a voice and crafting creative solutions that provide the best possible outcome for all participants. This no-limits mindset also permeates her personal life leading her, beginning at age 50, to compete for two years against women internationally as young as 19, as a member of the largest women’s figure team in the world, Team Bombshell, achieving national qualification status. “As diverse as my interests are in law and fitness training for competition, the skills are the same: focus, discipline, knowing that progress does not come

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without sacrifice. I had good genetics to start with and had to set goals and be willing to do what other people would not do in order to win,” Mancuso says. “It’s gratifying to see the results from wise choices.”

Her penchant for service also remains the same in the fitness realm, often leading to complimentary personal fitness lessons for those she has inspired and taking satisfaction from those who say her achievements have motivated them to hit the gym and live a healthier lifestyle. “What drives me is that I really do get juiced by helping others move forward,” Mancuso says. “It is so gratifying to make a difference in someone’s life.” Her drive to make a difference also motivates her work with clients, and she understands that her relationship with them during a very critical time can help them prepare for their next stage in life. “Sometimes they contact me years later to let me know the difference I’ve made in their lives,” she said. “That’s the good stuff. That’s what keeps me going.”

Mancuso, who is double board certified in family law and real property law, has been in practice as an attorney for 27 years in Florida and this month celebrates her 20th year as a certified mediator. While she has built a strong reputation as a formidable advocate for her clients in court, she considers mediation to be her calling. “There is so much flexibility and creativity available to us in mediation that should be taken advantage of rather than the time, risk and expense of going to court,” she says. “The level of satisfaction is so much higher because as a mediator, I’m looking for the win-win.”

Going to court is akin to going to battle, she adds, with the resultant damage and destruction that all parties must live with afterwards. Her focus on the human equation is not surprising for someone whose father was a clinical psychologist and whose undergraduate degree is in psychology. “I was destined to be a shrink or a mediator and became a lawyer along the way,” she quips. “Mediation is a calling for me. It’s not just a job or a profession. Inspiration often comes from unexplainable sources allowing me to assist the parties find resolution, when they thought it was impossible. What happens is pretty magical.” Mancuso says mediation can be a great option in a wide range of situations such as family law disputes, civil disputes like personal injury, construction defect litigation and partnership dissolutions, saving thousands of dollars and eliminating the stress of cases that stretch out for years.

Helping her profession and community also finds space in her busy life. Mancuso has served as a director of the Sarasota County Bar Association, has twice chaired Girls, Inc.’s Celebration Luncheon, was instrumental in establishing the PACE Center for Girls in Manatee County, and has been a volunteer speaker for the Women’s Resource Center, the Sarasota Board of Realtors and the Alternative Dispute Resolution section of the Sarasota County Bar Association.

This capacity for achievement was built throughout her childhood in Tulsa, Okla., and being raised with three brothers, who she says cut her no slack when it came to sports or life in gener-

Burgess, Harrell, Mancuso, Olson & Colton, P.A.

al. “It helped me be a stronger person,” she said, “and being raised with boys has helped me be

1776 Ringling Boulevard

a better mother to my son.” In her Italian-Irish family, the bar was set high, and they learned

Sarasota, Florida 34236

that in life you work for what you get. “I’m one of those classic overachievers who is willing to

(941) 366-3700

go the extra mile to do what needs to be done,” Mancuso says. “If you had to assemble a dream

lmancuso@burgessharrell.com

team to help you through a certain task, I would hope I’d be at the top of the short list.” scenesarasota.com

www.burgessharrell.com April 2011

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Alex Miller

CEO, MERCEDES MEDICAL

eing a 30-something CEO of Mercedes Medical, a $25 million national medical distribution business, already puts Alex Miller in rarefied company. Add to that her accomplishments as a wife, mother, philanthropist and as someone devoted to her own personal and professional growth, and she is in a class of her own.

Yet this cool, blonde beauty radiates calm and a level-headed composure that belies the demands of her multi-faceted life. Miller has a clear sense of where she is going, what it will take to get there and a touch of the adventurer who seeks what is just beyond the horizon. She is a dedicated yoga practitioner, crediting it for helping her stay in balance, but did not settle for gaining its centering benefits in a couple of classes a week. Instead, she chose the more rigorous path of becoming an instructor. Miller also underwent the rigors of earning an MBA from Johns Hopkins University, which she completed in 2009, to supplement her undergraduate degree in psychology, viewing it practically, of course, as a stepping-stone for her future and a necessary move for success in business.

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When it comes to the business, this same unwillingness to settle for the status quo is prompting Miller to chart untested waters for the highly-successful Mercedes Medical, which sells laboratory and testing supplies nationally to hospitals and physicians offices. For the first time, Mercedes Medical will sell to consumers, building on its strength in lab testing to launch www.myhometesting.com. “It is a market we haven’t really focused on before, but everything is headed toward this form of care.

It’s affordable, simple and discreet. If someone suspects a child is doing drugs, they can find out. There are tests for many things like pregnancy, cholesterol, diabetes and infertility,” Miller said. “It’s exciting, but we’re sort of green in the consumer area. We’re in the strategy development phase, and I have to figure it out with my management team.”

These types of challenges are what keep Miller juiced. After earning her undergraduate degree in psychology, Miller, who was raised in New York, came to Sarasota to work for her mother one summer and ditched the idea of graduate school. “I never realized I would like business. I stayed and worked with my mother for 10 years until she retired,” Miller said. “I think there are people who are meant to start businesses, an entrepreneurial type, and my Mother is one of them. Then there are people who are built to bring a business to the next level. That’s me.”

Now, she’s once again working with an entrepreneurial type, her husband, Scott Gerber, now known as the “tube dude” guy. His whimsical, smiley-face stick figure people made from formed metal tubing have popped up all over town, and the nation, holding signs and mailboxes or just bringing smiles to people’s faces. “That’s been a fun business to help grow because it’s so out of my element,” Miller said. “Now when we go anywhere, people say ‘Hey, it’s the tube dude.’ It’s nice to see his success.”

“For the first time, Mercedes Medical will sell to consumers, building on its strength in lab testing to launch myhometesting.com.

“It is a market we haven’t really focused on before, but everything is headed toward this form of care. It’s affordable, simple and discreet.”

– A LEX MILLER

The couple has two sons, seven and eight years old. “My aspiration is to raise two well adjusted children. I want to know they had a good childhood and a decent upbringing,” she says. “It’s difficult for working mothers. We come in with all this motherly guilt. That’s the hardest part of the job. Mom guilt is the worst.” While she acknowledges balance is a challenge, not surprisingly, she has mastered. “I call it the 70 percent solution,” she adds. “Balance doesn’t exist. If you can admit there is no 100 percent for all of your roles, then if you can do 70 percent for each, you’re succeeding.” Miller also manages to carve out time—quite a lot of it—for giving back. Mercedes Medical’s philanthropic mission is to support animal welfare, children and the advancement of professional women. Miller serves on the board of the Humane Society of Sarasota County and loves to put on events, including chairing the HSSC’s successful Paws on the Catwalk fundraiser in May, which she started five years ago.

Mercedes Medical Physician and Laboratory Products 7590 Commerce Court

As for what the future holds, Miller has given that some thought. “I would like to do

Sarasota, Florida 34243

something bigger. I’d like to run a Fortune 500 company someday, and I’d love to be a

(941) 355-3333

senator. If we’re talking about a bucket list, we may as well just go there,” Miller says. “I

amiller@mercedesmedical.com

feel destiny plays a part in everyone’s life if you are open to it.” scenesarasota.com

www.mercedesmedical.com April 2011

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A woman of valor makes the world change Her strength is the content that guides through the days Defined by her actions that bring light to all dreams Valor is something that’s defined by her needs.

Excerpt from the poem “A Woman of Valor” by Eric S. Kingston (chabad.org)

JFCS’s 2011

Women of Valor

Photos by Cliff Roles

The JFCS, a leading major human service agency providing comprehensive counseling and social services

WOMEN OF VALOR LUNCHEON

to those confronting life’s challenges, recently honored 25 “Women of Valor” who share the same passion as JFCS about improving the quality of life for all residents in our local community. SCENE is pleased to feature these outstanding of our community, each of whom have contributed so much to Monday, February women 28, 2011 support causes that uniquely define their passions and individuality.

Michael’s On East

(Photos from top left to bottom right)

JEWEL ASH — Jewel has been involved with many organizations including Designing Women Boutique; Senior Friendship Centers; Pines of Sarasota; Sunshine from Darkness; Catholic Charities; Sarasota Opera; Circus Sarasota, and is a great supporter and volunteer at JFCS. LEE BERKOWITZ — Lee’s life has been spent helping and guiding people — as a social worker counselor and now as a volunteer Intake Coordinator with JFCS providing telephone risk assessment and crisis intervention. She coordinates the referral process and is the most important first point of contact for the many people helped

by JFCS counseling programs.

CAROL POTEAT BUCHANAN — Carol has a big presence in our community, involved with many organizations and causes. She is President of the US National Committee for UN Women; Parliamentarian of The Society Inc., FL West Coast Chapter, and board member, Florida Studio Theatre. Carol is also involved with Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe; Gulf Coast Community Choir, and Embracing Our Differences.

MARGARET CALLIHAN — This SunTrust regional president has served on many boards and has been recognized by the Lung Local artist Debbie Dannheisser created the artwork, “Inside the Window of Community Compassion”, Sponsored by: which joyfully depicts strength and the giving spirit. scenesarasota.com

Association (“Woman of Distinction”); received Girl’s, Inc. “She Knows Where She’s Going” award; is Vice Chair of Charitable Planning for Community Foundation of Sarasota County; and April 2011

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is Campus Board Member at USF Sarasota Manatee. She is

from the University of South Florida; recognition from the United

deeply involved in the development of our community and com-

Negro College Fund for education; Leadership and Professional

mitted to mentoring our young people.

Awards from the American Association of University Women and Delta Kappa Gamma International, and is past chair of the FL

AUDREY COLEMAN — A retired educator, Audrey is passionate

Commission on the Status of Women.

about arts and opportunities for community youth. She started The Society Inc., Suncoast Chapter, which provides opportuni-

FLORENCE KATZ — Florence Katz is an indefatigable 95-year

ties for development of fine and performing arts for young peo-

old with boundless energy and enthusiasm. She has a lifelong

ple, with emphasis on African-American youth. Audrey’s service

love of music and was 1st violinist with the Sarasota Pops or-

includes the Board of Trustees, New College; Board of Directors,

chestra. She formed and directed the choir at Temple Beth Israel

Girl’s Inc.; Board of Directors, Women’s Resource Center and

for 22 years. She is a very active volunteer and can be found

Charter Member, Giving Matters Association Fundraising Profes-

twice a week at JFCS where she is the treasured ‘Queen’ of the

sionals SW Florida Chapter.

Senior Outreach Services Program lunch groups.

BEA FRIEDMAN — Bea’s lifelong passion for philanthropy and

LEE LEVINE — Lee served as the first female president of Stu-

tireless energy touch all areas of our community. She is a major

dent Council at NYU. She serves or has served on boards or

donor to many Jewish organizations including the Jewish Fed-

volunteers for JFCS; Sarasota Orchestra Association Designer

eration of Sarasota-Manatee and our arts community, especially

Showcase; Brandeis University National Women’s Committee;

her beloved Sarasota Orchestra.

UNIFEM; Women’s Resource Center; Women’s Legal Defense Fund; League of Women Voters-Manatee; Sarasota-Manatee

CAROL B. GREEN — Carol Is Vice-Chairman of First America

Jewish Federation Women’s Division; Sarasota Reading Festi-

Bank with 5 branches in Sarasota and Manatee counties. She

val; One-Stop Homelessness Shelter in Manatee County; WRC

is immediate past president of the Glasser-Schoenbaum Human

Today’s Women; NCJW Women in Power, and Sarasota Com-

Services Center and founding member and first president of the

mission on the Status of Women.

Florida Suncoast Chapter of the International Women’s Forum.

She is a respected author of Spiritual Transformation in America

GWEN MacKENZIE — Gwen is President and CEO of Sarasota

— a book that raises critical questions about the role of religion

Memorial Health Care System. She supports as a volunteer The

and spirituality in our own lives.

American Heart Association; The Cancer Support Community; Girl’s Inc.; Community Aids Network; Hearts AFire (Physician’s

MARILYN HARWELL — Politically nonpartisan, Marilyn is in-

donating their skills in 3rd world countries); Key to the Cure; Ju-

volved in local and national government issues and serves on

venile Diabetes, and Asolo Repertory Theatre.

various boards. Her community activities include the Gulf Coast Community Foundation Leadership Institute; Selby Foundation

HELEN McBEAN — A retired educator, Helen is on the Board

Scholarship Panel; JFCS; Independent Transport Network; Na-

of Ringling College Library Association and the Van Wezel Advi-

tional Council of Jewish Women; Sarasota County Human Servic-

sory Board and Foundation. She volunteers at the Senior Friend-

es Advisory Council, and Reach Out Recovery. She helped create

ship Center and The Cancer Support Community and is involved

and is co-chair of The Forum: Truth for Change, a group made

with Sarasota Ballet; YMCA; Moffitt Cancer Center; Community

up of local men and women whose mission is to support the pur-

Foundation of Sarasota County; Girl’s Inc; Designing Women

suit of liberty, justice, quality of life, peace and prosperity for all.

Boutique, and Embracing Our Differences.

DR. MONA JAIN — Dr. Jain spent 45 years as an educator and

DIANE McFARLIN — Diane is President and Publisher of the

health professional. She served as Director of Children and Fami-

Herald-Tribune Media Group. Together with the Community

lies Health Services for Manatee County Head Start program.

Foundation of Sarasota County, they started the Season of Shar-

Now retired, she actively volunteers and is involved in numerous

ing Charitable Fund, which helped raise $1.52 million to assist

local, state, national and international organizations. Dr. Jain re-

families at risk of homelessness this past season. Diane has re-

ceived a Community Service Award from the American Medical

ceived Girl’s Inc.’s “She Knows Where She’s Going” award; the

Women’s Association; the 2001 Distinguished Alumnus Award

AJC Civic Achievement Award; is a board member for United

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Way of Sarasota County, and is past chair of the Greater Sara-

dation of Sarasota County.

sota Chamber of Commerce.

FLORI ROBERTS — Broadway actress and entrepreneur, Flori GRACI McGILLICUDDY — Sarasota children have a passionate

was the first woman to be inducted into the National Sales and

advocate in Graci McGillicuddy. She has worked tirelessly to help

Marketing Academy of Achievement and is an activist encouraging

provide hope, prevention, education and treatment to victims of

the advancement of women to positions of leadership in business,

child abuse and their families. Graci’s personal donations and

politics and philanthropy. Flori serves or has served on the board

fundraising efforts on behalf of the Child Protection Center and

of Asolo Rep; The Y Foundation, and America Jewish Committee.

All-Star Children’s Foundation have provided millions of dollars to

She works with Women’s Resource Center; Girl’s Inc.; The Inter-

help end child abuse. She serves on the Governor’s Child Abuse

national Women’s Forum; Designing Women Boutique, and The

Prevention & Permanency Advisory Council and was the recipient

Links. Flori supports the arts, including Sarasota Orchestra, West-

of the Community Youth Development Award for 2010.

coast Black Theatre Troupe; Sarasota Ballet, and The Hermitage.

CAROLYN MICHEL — Actress Carolyn Michel is very involved in

MARY ANN ROBINSON — A founding member and board

local theatre including Asolo Rep; Florida Studio Theatre; West-

member of Designing Women Boutique, Mary Ann is also active

coast Black Theatre Troupe, and the Van Wezel. In addition to

with Westcoast Black Theater Troupe; YMCA; SPARCC; Sara-

the arts, her philanthropy includes: Designing Women Boutique;

sota Film Festival, and Community AIDS Network.

Community AIDS Network; Planned Parenthood; Jewish Housing Council; Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee; Boys & Girls

CAROL SIEGLER — Carol is Honorary VP of the National Board of

Clubs, and National Council of Jewish Women, which awarded

Governors, American Jewish Committee; Board Member, Center

her A Woman in Power Award.

for Catholic/Jewish Studies of St. Leo’s University, and is an active volunteer at Guardian Ad Litem Fund.

NIKKI NILON — A true community activist, Nikki works with her husband Rev. Jim Nilon through the Throne of Grace Ministry to

BARBARA SIEMER — Barbara is founder of Family Stability Initia-

provide outreach & support to the homeless. Her other commu-

tive, a homelessness prevention program delivered through JFCS

nity involvement includes: Community AIDS Network; Salvation

in co-operation with United Way of Sarasota County. She is ac-

Army; JFCS; Darfur Outreach; Circus Sarasota; Girl’s Inc.; Jewish

tive with Ringling Museum; United Way of America, and is on the

Housing Council; Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee; Em-

Governing Committee, Columbus Ohio Community Foundation.

bracing Our Differences, and Florida Studio Theatre.

LISA WALSH — Vice President of The Observer Group, Lisa is NORA PATTERSON — Serving her community as an elected

active with SPARCC; Selby Gardens; Sarasota Chamber of Com-

official, Nora has served as Mayor of the City of Sarasota; Chair,

merce; Sarasota Ballet; Girl’s Inc.; The Cancer Support Commu-

Sarasota Board of County Commissioners; Florida Legislative

nity; American Jewish Committee, and the Longboat Key Center

Committee on Intergovernmental Relations; Sarasota County

for the Arts.

Tourist Development Council; Metropolitan Planning Organization; Airport Advisory Board; West Coast Inland Navigational

SALLY YANOWITZ — Sally is an active community leader involved

Board, and Tampa Bay Regional Transit Authority. Her commu-

with JFCS; Sarasota Ballet; American Jewish Committee; Jewish

nity involvement includes: Independent Transportation Network,

Housing Council; NCJW; Embracing our Differences; Planned Par-

United Way of Sarasota County, and JFCS. She’s received the

enthood, and Curtis Institute, Sarasota Committee. Sally was a re-

Girl’s Inc. “She Knows Where She’s Going” award; National

cent recipient of the NCJW Women in Power Award.

Council of Jewish Women, A Woman in Power Award, and Siesta Key’s Citizen of the Year Award.

About JFCS: JFCS is a fully accredited community-based social service organization that delivers a broad range of professional coun-

LEE PETERSON — A founder of the Peterson Foundation, former opera singer Lee is very involved with Designing Women Bou-

seling services to individuals, families, seniors, adults and children on a secular, non-denominational basis. People turn to JFCS when they can’t turn their lives around with help, and JFCS never turns

tique; Asolo Repertory Theatre; Sunshine from Darkness; New

away anyone for an inability to pay. 2688 Fruitville Road, Sarasota /

College of Florida; 40 Carrots; Girl’s Inc., and Community Foun-

941.366.2224 / JFCS-cares.org

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63

Pampered Pets and the Owners Who Love Them A Look Inside a $50 Billion Industry By Ryan G. Van Cleave

BEFORE

Last fall, a Shih Tzu puppy was found huddled on the side of I-75 off exit 213. I’m a softy for charity cases in general (and animals in specific), so when no one came forward to claim her, she became “Ladybug Van Cleave.” Maybe it’s the Midwestern thriftiness in me or maybe it’s worry over the U.S. economy possibly tanking again, but for the first few months, we tried to handle all the doggy maintenance (grooming, bathing, nails, etc.) ourselves.

When the idea for a pampered pet article emerged, I wanted to see first-hand what this level of pet care looked like, so I immediately took Ladybug to Peejay Ovadia, the owner of Beverly Hills Dog (2030 Bispham Road). I was unprepared for the transformation. Within three hours, Ladybug was suddenly fluffy, soft, stylish, and happy. Plus she smelled terrific, too. I would’ve been delighted to pay twice as much as Peejay — as she’s known to her hundreds of clients — charges to keep our Shih Tzu looking like a little doggy princess.

Apparently, I’m not the only one who has discovered the delight in pampering a pooch. Oprah

AFTER

Winfrey adopted a blonde Cocker Spaniel, Sadie, to go with her Golden Retrievers Layla and Lucky. To properly care for them? She set up a $30 million trust fund. “I can’t begin to repay my own dogs for the flat-out joy they bring me,” she said.

When Oprah was filming a post-Oscar special in Los Angeles, Sadie arrived at the Kodak Theatre by limousine, then was ushered inside by seven handlers. Talk about first-class pampering!

For people who want to give their pooches the Oprah-style care, we’ve got plenty of good local options. Beverly Hills Dog, “where small & medium dogs feel big,” offers bathing, grooming, aromatherapy, and doggy daycare. This is in addition to the many handmade clothes, jeweled collars, toys, treats, doormats, greeting cards, and pet fashions they offer. In her lovely New York

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accent, Peejay(right) adds, “I just love helping clients taking care of their dogs.”

Christina Stewart, owner of www.FairytailBaskets.com, also caters to the discriminating pet and pet owner. For years, instead of bringing a bottle of wine for dinner at a friend’s house, to their delight she brought homemade gift baskets for their pets. When her own mother surprised her with a pet basket five years ago to welcome a 10-week-old puppy into her life, the idea for the business was born. And now she ships all over the country via UPS. For all local orders, she even personally hand-delivers them.

Every toy and treat in all Fairytail Baskets is individually tested

by Jolie, Stewart’s own beloved French Bulldog (right). And for those cat lovers, don’t worry — Stewart has kitty tail baskets, as well! Whether it’s a new puppy, a dog birthday, a sick dog, or just because, Stewart’s baskets are a hit. “One client told me that she ‘hooked’ her boyfriend by sending his dog a Fairytail Basket!

People say it’s the most unique gift they’ve ever received.”

Pet owners are committed to treating their pets well — we spent nearly $50 billion in this pursuit during last year alone.

Stewart explains this by saying “An increase in pampering and gift-giving has fueled the industry as more pet parents continue to treat their pets like members of the family. The pet pampering industry has nearly doubled since 2005, and it is showing no signs of recession. In fact, the pet industry continues to grow at a record pace and the future is no exception.”

She’s exactly right. There is a significant increase in the quantity and quality of high-end maintenance and grooming services now available, such as pet spas, doggie day cares, and pet hotels. Up until a few months ago, the Ritz-Carlton Spa even offered a $350 “Paw Package” so dogs could enjoy gourmet biscuits, Swedish massages, and bottled water right alongside their owners. While the Ritz-Carlton Spa no longer offer those services, plenty of other smaller, more affordable companies like those mentioned above are offering all of those services, and far, far more. As Tampa resident Amy Haynie recently told Channel 10 News that while her family gave up cable TV and cut back on dining out, they aren’t skimping on holistic pet food for Baci, their dog. “She’s like a child to us,” Haynie said, as if that explained everything.

A few years back, Serena Williams won the U.S. Open for the first time. Immediately afterward, she spotted a Jack Russell in a store window. Not long later, she said this about her new “Jackie”: “She completes me. I don’t know which was a better souvenir: the title or Jackie.”

Beverly Hills Dog and Fairytail Basket aren’t the only two companies cashing in on the booming pet pampering business. Other local businesses that also cater to these pet owners include: Emilee Fuss Photography Englewood, FL 941-474-9870 www.emileefuss.com

Poochie’s Pampered Pups 7672 S. Tamiami Trl, Sarasota, FL 34231 941-312-4969 www.poochiespamperedpups.com

Wet Noses

Dog owners understand Haynie and Serena, of course, even if others think we’re a little crazy.

Yet I look at Ladybug — who’s so immaculately groomed thanks to Peejay, and so happy thanks to her Fairytail Basket from Stewart — and I hope that others will someday learn firsthand about how caring so well for our four-legged friends can be among the most rewarding things we ever do.

Ryan G. Van Cleave / ryangvancleave.com scenesarasota.com

472 John Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34236 941-388-DOGS (3647) www.wetnoses.biz

Woof Gang Bakery 1809 S. Osprey Ave., Sarasota, FL 34239 941-312-5233 www.woofgangbakery.com April 2011

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from an interview Actor Christopher Plummer

by Gus Mollasis

As good an actor as he is (to many he is considered one the foremost actors of his generation), it’s hard to believe that Christopher Plummer has never won an Academy Award, and has only been nominated once for his role as Tolstoy. As you will learn, this veteran Canadian actor, who has captured two Tonys for stage mastery and two Emmys for conquering the small screen, is not about awards. Yet to receive the much deserved Cinema Master Award at this year’s 13th Sarasota Film Festival is the main reason he is coming to Sarasota. His latest film, Beginners, closes this year’s Festival. Recently, I talked with this acclaimed actor as we looked at some of the scenes in an interview of his life.

Describe a childhood memory that brings a smile or tear to

If you had not been an actor, what other role could you see

you today.

yourself playing?

Oh gosh, there are so many. That’s a difficult question. Move

I think I might have been an architect. I love the work of archi-

on to the next one. (Laughing)

tects and love the look of buildings, the design of them. I think perhaps I might have been a fairly good one.

Do you remember the moment that you knew that yours would be an actor’s life?

I think I was about sixteen when that happened. I tried to be a pianist. I studied classical piano and jazz. But I real-

If they ever made a remake of Fountainhead, you would have made a great Howard Roark.

(Laughing)

ized that was going to be a hell of lot of work, so I opted for what I thought would be the less arduous profession.

You’ve been successful on the stage, the small screen and

And I realized later on that you work just as hard in that

the big screen. Explain what an actor must do to succeed

profession as any other. I was sixteen when I knew I was

in the various mediums.

hopeless at everything else, and thought I might as well

Do as many plays as possible. You must keep going and

be an actor.

keep coming back to the stage as I’ve done all my life, be-

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cause that’s what it’s all about. While the screen is wonderful,

Perhaps a Chekhov is in your future at our fabulous Asolo

you can use half your resources and still make it on screen.

Repertory Theatre in Sarasota.

You can never get away with that in the theatre. In acting for

(Laughing) Perhaps.

all of them, they’re not terribly different. You eventually learn to make it the same. You just have to be very careful when

The Sound of Music made you an iconic figure in movie his-

the cameras are close that you don’t make too many faces.

tory. You didn’t always sing its praises. Has the movie, like a

(Laughing)

fine wine, grown on you to where it is now music to your ears?

No it’s not music to my ears, because it’s not my cup of tea. It’s

What does an actor owe himself, the audience and the

a terrific family movie and it goes on and on and keeps remind-

playwright?

ing me of its existence. It’s just not a very interesting role and

First of all, as an actor who is part of that threesome, they all

I have been spoiled in my lifetime by playing the great roles of

belong to him. The playwright who he has to be loyal to up

the world. How could it possibly stack up? Of course it helped

to a point and the audience is his partner, the most important

make me well known and for that I’m very grateful because it

partner there.

made it easier for me to do things that I really wanted to do.

When reading a script –what is the one thing that you look

What is the best thing you’ve ever done on stage, TV and

for that makes you say yes to the project?

the big screen?

In Beginners, for example, which I am excited that people

I would never say that, I would never tell you that. First off,

will see at the Sarasota Film Festival, I look for something

it makes me sound full of myself. There are many roles that

which has a lot of charm and is touching and a little unique.

I have enjoyed equally and I couldn’t pick just one. I have

We look for that all the time and of course we don’t always

always searched for roles that are different. The role of Hal in

find it. So we have to do certain movies that we really don’t

Beginners is highly different. I’ve never played anything like

want to do, to keep on living. Hopefully a script comes along

that before in my life so that was very gratifying indeed.

that has originality, vision and brilliance and then you are a happy camper.

Describe your perfect day when you were 21 years old?

If you were my age you wouldn’t remember when you were

Like most actors, you’ve stated your preference to play

21. (Laughing)

parts with an evil side versus those that are overly good.

Of course. If you play too many goodie goodies it gets very

Describe your perfect day today?

boring indeed. I mean some of the best roles and interest-

(Laughing) It’s impossible to have a perfect day. That’s what

ing people are the bad guys. A lot of very great writers have

makes life interesting. All the rough edges that you have to

written very great villains and I think I’ve played them all in my

deal with make it more exciting than a perfect day. A perfect

lifetime.

day to me would be a very dull day.

What role in theatre that you haven’t played do you yearn

Borrowing the title of your memoir, In Spite of Myself, fin-

to play?

ish the sentence - In spite of myself my life has been filled

There is some Chekhov that I wouldn’t mind doing. I’ve never done Chekhov on the stage. I’d love to play Othello, but

with mostly.... luck and fun.

it’s difficult because you have to defer that role to a black actor these days. But if I did play him, I’d play him as a Moor

68

Compare the joy you get from theatre versus TV or film?

as it was written. It’s such a great role. I’ve played Yiago

There’s a huge difference. In theatre, it is the one place you

on Broadway to a great success but I would have loved to

must work as an actor to be considered great. It is the place

tackle Othello because it has such great poetry and feeling

where great writing flourishes. The screen is all about visual

and he is such an extraordinary man. But I doubt I’ll ever

suggestions. The less dialogue the better. The stage is for

get to do that.

the writer and the actor. It’s where the great poetry and lit-

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erature comes from. The stage is in front of a live audience.

Oh God I wouldn’t know. And I’m not sure this is a great mar-

That’s the most wonderful thing – to hear the laughter every

riage. We’re just great friends. That’s about all you can be. If

night. Because it plays straight to the audience, I don’t think

she’s your best friend then you are a very lucky man.

the theatre will ever disappear. It has a hard time sometime in today’s world of mechanized media, but it will always be

You were born in Toronto, but have lived in Montreal. Are

with us. It’s been with us for over 2500 years so I don’t see

you a Leafs or Canadians fan?

it vanishing that quickly.

I am Canadians fan. I don’t follow it like I used to and I miss the old days of Gordie Howe and Maurice Richard.

What film director did you learn the most from?

John Huston gave me two or three wonderful suggestions. He

Let’s do some word association. Julie Andrews

never directed per se, his job as is any film director’s is to cast

You will persist on the Sound of Music, won’t you? (Laughing)

well. Huston knew how to cast his pictures. Most of the time he

She’s an old friend who I admire tremendously. She was radi-

left you alone. On a few occasions, if you were in trouble he’d

ant on the screen and she is good and terrific lady.

offer a simple statement that made everything extraordinarily clear without any pretentiousness. He was one of the best.

Elia Kazan He certainly was one of the most exciting directors I ever worked

What actor surprised you the most?

with and I have worked with great directors. On plays of passion

Well that’s a tough one, because you usually know the actors

and political intrigue, Kazan was the best director I ever worked

you are cast with and you know what to expect from them.

with in that regard. I deal with him at length in my book, In Spite

And that’s why you want to work with them. The great actor

of Myself, so you better read it. He was devious and would

has to surprise you anyway. That’s part of the rule. If you want

stop at nothing to get what he wanted. He was marvelous.

to be very exciting you must surprise. You must surprise the audience and you must surprise your fellow actor.

Sir Laurence Olivier I worked with him at the Royal Theatre and on screen. He

Does the work still excite you?

was an immensely great actor. You always saw his technique

Of course it does. I think it’s a fascinating profession. I don’t

but it was so brilliant to watch that it didn’t matter. As a guy he

suffer for my art in any way. I think that’s a lot of bull s***. I

was funny and loved to tell stories about the profession and

have enormous fun in it because it is exciting. There is always

his rich links to the past. He was just fascinating to me and

something new that you can find out about yourself in a new

great to be around. We had a good time together.

part. In a sense, we are working at something that is our hobby, and we are very lucky. Most people are unhappy with what

Playing Mike Wallace (The Insider)

they do in life. They can’t wait to retire. I can’t wait for ten more

That was fascinating. I loved that. And I played a lot of bio-

terrific roles I hope to play before I croak. (Laughing)

graphical characters in my life. People won’t stop casting me in these roles and sometimes it is very difficult, because you

How much fun was Up to do?

don’t want to imitate them. That’s cheap. You have to make

It’s a good little film. I’ve done a lot of that stuff in my life. Voice

the audience realize that you are much like the person, but

over for animated films. I love doing it because I began in ra-

you must have your own personality underneath so that it

dio. We were told you have to have 25 voices at your beckon

makes it real and true. It’s a difficult assignment and much

and call if you want to be good on the air. So I was trained in

harder to do than a straight role.

a good environment. So Up and those kinds of projects have a natural appeal to me. I enjoy them all very much. I especially liked the dogs and their gags in Up.

John Barrymore It’s great fun playing him. We are currently filming our theatrical production in Toronto and making it into a little

You have been married to your wife Elaine Taylor for over

movie. It’s more poignant than it was on Broadway where

forty years. What is the secret to a great marriage?

it was a smash.

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Playing Shakespeare

because we are all so different, and how could you possibly

There is no writer in the world who captures the truth and

compare the roles? I would love to have the five best perfor-

simplicity like he does. His great works, Othello, Macbeth,

mances remain just that. Those are the five winners.

Hamlet, King Lear, those four, have the greatest writing that’s ever been written for the stage, and some of the greatest

Describe your feelings on receiving the Cinema Master

writing that’s ever been written, period. And it’s because in

Award at the Sarasota Film Festival?

the great moments it is so economical and so beautifully

That is lovely. I think it is great to be honored for your life’s

simple. That’s what greatness is. I think that Hamlet is the

work. I am honored and thrilled to be coming to Sarasota

supreme role, and the most supreme part ever written for

and grateful to the Sarasota Film Festival for awarding me the

a man. I was fortunate to play Hamlet on the Bard’s 400th

Cinema Master Award.

Birthday which was taped for television and will be shown at What is your advice to young actors who are trying to make

the Sarasota Film Festival.

it on the stage or screen as working actors?

You recently grabbed your first nomination for an Academy

You’ve got to love it more than anything else in the world,

Award for playing Tolstoy. Describe that experience and

otherwise give it up. Because you’re going to get rejected a

how did that make you feel? Were you grateful or did you

lot and you’re going to have to deal with that. It’s right in your

think, it’s about time?

face all your life actually. So get used to it early on and then

I don’t look at awards for something to strive for. The work is

you can forget about it.

what is important. I’ve been given awards and of course that’s nice to get them. They are nice when they are genuine and sin-

When the curtain closes and the last reel runs, how do you

cere. But many become very political. When I’m nominated I’m

want to be remembered?

just as glad. The five nominees are all winners. Why should one

Oh I’m not going to give you that satisfaction. I’m going to put

win over the other four? That has to go the popularity mode,

that in another book. (Laughing)

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ASK THE

EXPERT

Marketing Tips to Keep Your Business On Top – Online and Off

By Lori Uzzo Last month I talked to advertising expert and founder of Grapevine Communications, Angela Massaro-Fain, about how local businesses can weather the economic downturn and position themselves for success. This month we met over salads at Polo Grill and Bar in Lakewood Ranch to continue our discussion about advertising, marketing and public relations strategies that can deliver real results for your company.

With people posting online reviews of everything from restaurants to car dealers to hair salons, how can businesses protect themselves from negative publicity?

Angela Massaro-Fain: It’s true that consumers today have a lot more information to influence their buying decisions. One disgruntled customer can do a lot of damage by posting a scathing review. But that also presents an opportunity to respond to complaints and foster a positive image. First, you have to stay on top of what customers are saying by signing up for a service such as Google Alerts, which sends you email every time your company name (or a competitor’s name) is mentioned online. Also monitor websites like Yelp.com which posts customer reviews for nearly 1,000 businesses in Sarasota alone. When you know what people are saying, you can respond to an unhappy customer, make changes to your products or services, or make improvements to your customer service.

We’ve talked about online marketing. Is print dead, or does traditional marketing collateral still have a role?

AMF: Recently I read a study by Magazine Handbook about the revitalization of print for marketing and advertising. By combining innovative creative concepts with new printing technologies, you can grab attention and create a solid, memorable brand, whether it’s an eye-catching logo, a company brochure or a magazine ad. We’re also using print in innovative ways to link to online content. One Grapevine client is a law firm that uses Microsoft TAGs on the back of their business cards. With a quick scan from a smart phone, their clients can download a vCard to save contact information directly into their phones. We have ways to increase the shelf life of printed collateral that make it more cost-effective as well.

The Internet is getting crowded. How can businesses make it easy for customers to find them online?

AMF: It used to be enough to create a nice-looking website, but that’s no longer the case. If you haven’t heard about search

engine optimization, or SEO, you’re probably missing out on potential customers who simply can’t find you. In general, the higher your website is listed on a search engine’s results page, the more visitors your website will attract. Here at Grapevine, we build our clients’ websites using keywords and source code that work with the indexing tools search engines use to list results. You also need to keep it fresh. Update your website regularly and celebrate your victories by circulating press releases as often as you can. Don’t forget to announce any new company hires or your involvement in charitable organizations in the local business press.

Speaking of charity, many local non-profits have been hit hard by a decrease in contributions. How can they keep their worthy causes top-of-mind?

AMF: It’s true that charitable contributions are down. The good news is, non-profits have more ways than ever to spread their message without spending a lot of money. Social media such as Facebook and LinkedIn provide great opportunities to build an online community of people who are interested in a particular cause. One of Grapevine’s pro-bono clients, Sarasota Young Professionals Group, has over 3,000 Facebook friends, where members keep up-to-date on business networking opportunities and community service projects. As far as traditional media, many local magazines and newspapers cover charitable events or provide listings of non-profit organizations. Be sure to take advantage of every opportunity to keep your cause in front of potential donors.

With summer approaching, many local businesses are grappling with how to keep customers during the off-season. Any advice?

AMF: Some businesses are more seasonal than others, but we’re all affected by the slowdown when snowbirds and vacationers head north. Be sure to market your business to year-round residents so the drop-off in customers is not quite so sharp at the end of the season. Entice your regulars with special pricing, sales and coupons, or a VIP program.

Are you looking to improve the way you reach out to your customers? Send your advertising, marketing or PR queries to Grapevine Communications at info@grapeinc.com

Beach Babes, Brides & Beauties

Circa 1920

By Sue Blue

“In the days of the pioneers,” wrote Karl H. Grismer in The Story of Sarasota, “the people didn’t bother about stylish clothes.” Mr. Grismer, in spite of all his research and apparent knowledge of these early Sarasota days, was mistaken. Women cared about “stylish” clothes. Somehow, along with baking, cooking, gardening, birthing babies, cleaning, tending the sick, raising chickens, and shooting the occasional preying animal, the mother of the household scrimped, saved and purchased or wove the materials which she hand sewed into shirts for her husband and garments for the children and herself.

Not only was procuring the money for dress material a problem, the access to the material was limited. During the 1870s and 80s the nearest store that stocked “dry-goods” was located in the town of Manatee. To get there a family needed an ox-cart or a horse and buggy to traverse a sandy trail. This was a two day round trip, which quite often involved several families traveling together and camping out overnight. While the ladies met and shared their fashion plans, the men took this opportunity to quench their thirsts with all night moonshine parties.

In the early 1880s, Mrs. Peter Crocker received a Singer sewing machine. The arrival of this machine began weekly sewing parties at the Crocker home. While women from miles around chatted, cut material and basted the pieces together, Sophie Crocker pedaled away, stitching the garments with her trusty Singer machine. However, a sewing machine did not do away entirely with the process of making a fashionable garment. The skirt and cuffs had to be fine sewn with the whip stitch, collars and pockets attached, buttons and button holes carefully placed. As for style, didn’t the gentlemen of the day ever notice the lady of the house crocheting, tatting, and embroidering nightly by the flickering light of the oil lamp? These decorative and creative items were added to the collars, sleeves, and pleated blouse facings.

The children’s dresses received the same attention to detail given to the women’s garments. It was quite common to see a mother and daughter dressed in identical patterned dresses. When cutting a larger piece of material for a dress, every “left over” scrap was saved and successfully used in the making of a small child’s dress. Perhaps this was the beginning of the “mother-daughter” outfit?

Sarasota pioneer women did not have the wherewithal to purchase Parisian gowns nor did they have access to materials found in the stores of large Northern cities, but they did develop their own style and continued to create fashionable beauty in the following decades, as we can see from these family album photos.

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Clockwise from left: • A 1920s “bathing beauty” in her stylish “pure worsted wool” Jantzen suit, circa 1925, on Sarasota Beach, now known as Siesta Beach. Pale was “in” – tan was “out”.

Umbrellas were a must. Note the matching socks and her bathing shoes. The Jantzen Company’s advertisements proclaimed “...

A Jantzen is modest. It fits the body perfectly, wet or dry. The suit that changed bathing to swimming!”

• Miss Pin-Up of 1929 on Lido Beach. Although the swimsuit is still made of wool, it has a more form-fitting cut...and no matching socks! Or, perhaps this young woman is a bit more daring and doesn’t mind getting a tan.

• A glowing white special occasion dress of the late 1890s features a cut-out embroidered blouse with lace trim and puffed elbow length sleeves. The full floor length skirt is shirred at the waist. Complementing the look is a cameo necklace and a contrasting dark hat festooned with feathers.

• The Sarasota working woman of 1925 displays the feminine middy over blouse with short cap sleeves and dark bow on the “sailor” collar. Knee length skirt, white stockings and shoes complete her stylish look.

• A morning wedding dress for the 1928 bride shows the influence of the “flapper” fashion with its pleated at-the-knee length skirt. The dress top is demurely styled with the Peter Pan collar and long sleeves. White stockings and the popular cloche hat complete her very special day outfit. The bride carries a bouquet of Shasta daisies picked that morning from her mother’s flower garden.

• This 1918 wears an organza pastel frock with a V-neck ruffled lace edged shawl collar. The above the elbow sleeves and the scalloped mid-calf hem are also trimmed with lace.

(Photos from Sue Blues’ Aunt Etta Scarborough’s Family Album)

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scene | profiles

The Visual Arts...

Gwendolyn Fryer Born in Paris, Sculptor and Painter Gwen Fryer spent many of her formative years moving around the world wherever the work of her petroleum geophysicist father took the family. Fryer graduated from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, and became its first exchange student to the École des BeauxArts in Paris. Fryer currently resides in Sarasota. Her work has been seen at the American Legation Museum in Tangiers; the Archevecher in Paris; the University of Pennsylvania; the State Museum in Harrisburg; the Museum of Fine Arts in Tallahassee and the Fuller in Boston which was curated by Lloyd Herman of the Smithsonian.

Fryer’s art is a mix of sculpture or constructions that are wall-mounted or freestanding which are wide-ranging in scale, and large oil paintings. In Fryers’ work form follows formation. The paintings are driven by the immediacy and fluidity of the brush stroke, the constructs by the process of retrieving the past through found-object remnants, and the slow, conscious act of reconstructing them into something that lives in the present.

Fryer’s constructs are the product of an extraordinarily developed vision. Using scavenged architectural debris, Fryer’s deft touch with paint and a focus on repeating patterns, result in seamless meditations on beauty, ancient cultures and decay. Hers is an art unafraid of contradiction that is itself rooted in the past. Fryer’s work blends two impulses — one outward-looking and social, the other focusing on inner questioning and continuous testing of the boundary between self and the world.

Gwen is a featured artist in the 2011 Creators & Collectors Tour produced by the Fine Arts Society of Sarasota. www.gwendolynfryer.com

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...so rich in inspiration, ambition and sheer beauty. SCENE proudly recognizes the passion and talents of local visual artists in this new monthly feature. Artists are selected by an independent panel organized by the Arts & Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County.

Tom Stephens Tom paints in an abstract manner, laying on colors until the work tells him he has done enough. He finds his efforts fun and doesn’t over-render things. For Tom, painting seems to be more an opportunity to indulge his artistic impulses than work.

In some of his works Tom starts with no image in mind, but allows one to develop from variations in the stained canvas as he observes it. Sometimes he rotates the canvas several times to “see” a subject that strikes his fancy. Humor is often his subject, as in his bays filled with fish or crab buoys or fishing bobbers: he pokes gentle fun at overpopulation. His Landscape Series is another whimsical group of images that don’t really occur in nature but are derived from it. These seemingly random observations are united into compositions that are models of artistic organization and discipline.

His themes are downtown, nature and wildlife, and Sarasota from the water, especially the latter. His work seems to divide itself into series: the Horizon Series, the Prickly Pear Series, the Downtown Series, the Red Tide Series, Florida Landscapes, and Coat of Many Colors. Craftsmanship too is important to Tom: he creates custom stretchers and exquisitely fashioned frames for his works and insists that they be hung snug against the wall.

Stephens grew up in Tallahassee, born to supportive parents: a mother who was creative in teaching kindergarten and a father who loved the water. He began painting in oils in third grade, kept up painting lessons through middle and high school, and on to Ringling CAD. The visitor sees in his studio the culmination of the life-observations of this still-young man only thirteen years into his artistic career. Tom’s work is available through his Web site, www.TomStephensfineart.com.

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“We are honored to remember longtime SCENE Magazine friend, Titus Letschert, co-owner of one of the finest Sarasota dining establishments, Café L’Europe on St. Armands Circle, and all-around great guy. For more than 37 years, Titus was a mainstay on Sarasota’s restaurant scene, always admired for his talents, easy smile and big heart.”

– Ron Milton, Publisher

Remembering Café L’Europe’s

Titus Letschert By Steven J. Smith

Titus Letschert, proprietor of the hugely popular restaurant Café L’Europe on St. Armands Circle, recently lost his 21-month battle with cancer. He was 67 years old.

A native of Holland, Letschert opened Café L’Europe with partner Norbert Goldner in 1973 following successful ventures as assistant general manager at Bill Paley’s Ground Floor Restaurant and co-manager of the Sign of the Dove restaurant and Yellow Finger discotheque, all in New York City.

Some of Sarasota’s most successful restaurateurs — Michael Garey of Lazy Lobster Longboat Key, Ray Arpke of Euphemia Hay, Harry Christensen of Harry’s Continental Kitchens, J.P. Knaggs of Bijou Café, and Bob Fracalossy of the Lazy Lobster — all put in time at “Café L’Europe University,” as they called it, before opening their own restaurants.

Among those surviving Letschert are his former wife, Betsie Coolidge, who is now sole owner of the restaurant, and his longtime companion Caroline Brown. Betsie and Caroline agreed to meet at the restaurant for a remembrance of the man who touched their lives.

Betsie met Letschert at Café L’Europe shortly after the restaurant first opened in 1973. “I was there for a bridal shower/luncheon,” Betsie said. “We started dating in 1978. We dated off and on, and we got married in 1995. I became involved in the business and we became business partners.” Betsie added that their business partner arrangement soon superseded the marriage partner relationship, although the two would remain friendly.

Caroline met Letschert six years ago, on St. Armands Circle. “I was working on the Circle, managing a gift shop,” Caroline said. “Every morning Titus knew what time I arrived at work, and he’d be there, waiting for me. I was going to do a grand opening for the shop and I asked Titus if he could cater it for me.” “Sly move,” laughed Betsie. “I didn’t know this!” The two laughed. “I met him at the Ritz for the event,” Caroline said. “We were pretty much inseparable from that night on.”

Betsie counted several trips to Europe among her fondest memories of Letschert. “We went to England, Holland, and Austria,” she said. “Also New York City. And Titus really loved sailing, as well as going to restaurants in Europe. He loved to try different foods there and then incorporate them in the restaurant here.”

Caroline added that Letschert was very proud to be a naturalized American citizen. “And he loved policemen and firemen,” she said. “I don’t know how many times we were on (Route) 41, where the firemen would be out collecting donations at a busy intersection. Titus never cared how late we were. He would pull a U-turn to go over and throw a $50 bill into that bucket.”

Betsie said that among all of his traits, she admired Letschert’s integrity the most. “Titus was just an upright, great guy,” she said. “He had a big heart and was honest. And anytime he heard about someone in need, he would be jumping right in there to help out with a benefit. From sick children to old people to taking meals to patients in the hospital. He even put a pagoda on the roof at the Visitors Center. There must be a hundred things he did like that.” scenesarasota.com

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View all photos at scenesarasota.com

Planned Parenthood’s 45th Anniversary Celebration

M

ore than 500 friends of Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida came together at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium

for the organization’s 45th Anniversary Annual Dinner Celebration, chaired

by Judy Cahn, Betty Schoenbaum and Sally Yanowitz. During the event, Planned Parenthood’s CEO Barbara Zdravecky introduced and honored U.S. Representative Kathy Castor and the Hon. Betty Castor for their service to the community and their support of access to health care and reproductive choice. Guest speaker John Avlon discussed the rise of extremism on both sides of the political aisle and offered his take on how current events might impact the future of Planned Parenthood. The event raised more than $135,000 in support of Planned Parenthood’s medical

Photos by Rebecca Baxter

services and educational programs throughout its 15-county service area.

Dr. Washington Hill

Joan Nixon, Scott Anderson & Leslie Glass

Suzanne Atwell & Mary Anne Servian

Karin Grablin & Barbara Zdravecky

Sally Yanowitz, Kathy Castor, Betty Schoenbaum & Hon. Betty Castor

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Food Styling

Photo courtesy of Euphemia

Haye Restaurant

THE ART OF SEDUCTION

By Susan Cullen

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S

tyle and beauty can be so seductive. How often have you gazed across a crowded restaurant

and

spotted

that perfect dish being escorted to a waiting table on the arm of a server who

blithely

ignores

everyone’s

envious stares? That perfect form with just the right touch of color. A feast for the eyes. We are talking about the food, of course. “What is that?” we ask our table mates breathlessly.

Whatever it is, we want it. That’s the power of food styling.

Strictly speaking, food styling is what is done by a professional food stylist for the purpose of photography. What is placed before us in a restaurant or at home is more accurately food presentation. The good news is: it

ANIFICIO P IL

does not take a culinary degree to make your own home cooking visually appealing according to some of our area’s top chefs and culinary experts.

Like any form of style, though, individual preferences play a large role in what is considered good taste, both by the chef and the diner.

Personally, I am not a fan of overly fussy modernist plating and garnishing that looks like some form of abstract art.

Such presentations seem cold and

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uninviting to me. A few of my friends

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April 2011

941.921.5570 6630 Gateway Avenue, Sarasota

to skyscraper heights may look, um, interesting, but I am pretty sure it will instantly be reduced to a dog’sscenesarasota.com

breakfast rubble the second I stick my fork in it. That said, food presentation is a vital part of food enjoyment, whether dining in or out.

“Style is everything. People come to our restaurant expecting that wow factor when it arrives,” says Dan Olson,

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executive chef of Ophelia’s on the Bay. “We do eat with our eyes first.” Olson also says people don’t like their food

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stacked up. “I don’t have an exact approach. It depends on my weather so to speak,” Olson says. “People like to have food separated on the plate.

I try to keep the plate balanced and keep the colors balanced. The food itself helps me out. As long as I use quality, fresh ingredients, I don’t have to do too much. The food stands on

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its own.”

Using Ophelia’s Cioppino, a rich seafood stew with origins in San Francisco, as an example, Olson cites the pleasing visual contrast between the deep crimson of the red wine/lobster broth and the white and coral of the clams, lobster, crab and fish punctuated by the deep purpley black shells of the mussels. “There are a lot of different textures and colors going on in that dish,” he says.

For the home cook, Olson’s advice is to keep it simple and very fresh. Avoid over garnishing, and use something that can be eaten with the food, like complimentary fresh herbs rather than just adding a sprig of rosemary, or a sprinkling of red pepper that does not really go with the dish. scenesarasota.com

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Likewise, Café L’Europe takes an elegant and refined

Hay says he doesn’t overemphasize presentation. “When

approach to presentation that lets the food speak for itself.

I was in school, they said presentation is 60 percent. I

Its brandied duckling with a crispy deeply golden skin

don’t agree. Taste is 70 percent, the look is 30 percent,”

nestles in a glossy bronze pool of sauce, a presentation

Arpke says. “I’m into tasting good.” He adds that he is not

that apparently has staying power. It has been a menu

into a lot of modern styling, but does a bit of stacking. He

staple for 38 years. Creativity plays a large part in appealing

tends to use a lot of parsley as a nod to the original owner

presentation. “We love the onion soup that is served in a

who considered it good for the stomach.

large Spanish onion,” says Betsie Coolidge, vice president.

“It looks like a round swimming pool of fragrant onions and

From the menu, Arpke particularly likes the looks of the

melted cheese just waiting to be dived into.”

smoked salmon on buckwheat crepes. “It has a lot of different colors, the brown crepes, green parsley, red

The freshest ingredients also play a large role at Café

salmon, caviar, white sour cream, green capers and

L’Europe and should at the home table, Coolidge says.

purple onion,” he says. “It also is very symmetrical. My

“Know your comfort zone and stay in it. Combine

biggest thing is the plate needs to be symmetrical.” As

flavors and complement one another,” she adds. “Use

for home cooks, Arpke says you can’t go wrong with

interesting serving pieces. Don’t overdo the garnish.

parsley. Use the flat Italian kind as a garnish and as a

Don’t overcrowd. Keep it elegant, but simple.”

vibrant green scattering over the top to brighten up almost any dish.

Although the food photos in his cookbook, “You Don’t Have to be Crazy, But it Helps,” look good enough to

And while we may feast with our eyes, the satisfaction is

eat right off the page, Chef Raymond Arpke of Euphemia

in the savoring, so dig in!

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5350 Gulf of Mexico Dr, Longboat Key, FL 34228

941-351-5515

941-383-0440

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April 2011

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Specializing in Authentic Israeli & Lebanese Cuisine 1454 Main Street, Sarasota | 941.556.9323 olivetreecafeandbar.com Now Open: Mon-Wed 11am-12pm, Thurs-Sat 11am-2am April 2011

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True Mixed Media

Spring in Bloom

Flemings Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar From James Shea’s Wine Room:

They paint with sauces; they

With

spring

vastly

approaching

flowers

sculpt with cheese…their

will soon be start to bud and bloom. Here at Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine

canvas, a gently warmed plate.

Bar we have introduced the 2008 Flowers Chardonnay to our list. Walt and Joan Flowers

At Café Baci, we call these

migrated to Sonoma in 1989 and purchased

artisans “Chefs” and feature

320 acres on the Sonoma Coast to grow their

their masterpieces daily.

favorite varietals, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

The cool climate of Sonoma Coast produces delicate and elegant wines and dairy cows, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir all love this land.

The Flowers farm their land according to organic and sustainable practices to retain the purity of fruit. The clusters are then handpicked

Authentically Fresh. Authentically Italian.

and aged in French oak. The result is a wine

4001 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota • 921-4848 • www.CafeBaci.net

with white peach, melon and lime aromas and flavors with a long bright and delicious finish.

THE PERFECT BLEND OF SPORTS, FOOD & DRINK

From Chef Charlie Flint’s Kitchen Chef Charlie Flint recommends serving the Flowers wine with smoked salmon or seared ahi tuna. For dessert, he recommends trying this Marigold Cake. Gentle and buttery, you can enjoy a slice with whipped cream or toasted the next morning with honey butter.

• 8oz softened butter • 8oz powdered sugar • 4 eggs, beaten • 8oz. flour • 1 teaspoon baking powder • Zest of one orange and one lemon • 3 tablespoons of fresh marigold petals Grease a 2 pound loaf pan, cream the butter with the sugar and add the egg a little at a time.

Sift in the flour and baking powder (folding gently) add in the zests and marigold leaves.

Pour into the loaf pan and bake a 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Remove from pan and allow to cool before slicing.

6606 South Tamiami Trail • 941-225-7200 • Open Daily, 11am-Midnight 84

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April 2011

flemingssteakhouse.com/sarasota scenesarasota.com

scene | social

New College 50th Anniversary Tribute Dinner

O

ver 570 people participated in New College Florida’s 50th Anniversary

and a fabulous Ritz-Carlton gala with entertainment provided by GETBACK! BEATLEMANIA, the group who entertained audiences in London and on Broadway.

Gala Co-Chairs were Charlene Callahan, Elaine Keating, Susannah Michalson, and Felice Schulaner. Honorary Co-Chairs were Ulla Searing, Betty and Howard Isermann, Jean Martin, Margaret Mason,

Photography by Cliff Roles

and Lee & Bob Peterson.

Julie & Jeff Riddell

The Collectors Wall FINE ART GALLERIES

COMPLETE CUSTOM FRAMING To Museum Standards Offering the areas largest Mike & Susannah Michalson, Felice Schulaner & Dennis Rees

selection of fine original paintings, graphics & posters at competitive prices.

“Spring Dream” by Hessam Abrishami

28 Paradise Plaza, Sarasota FL 34239 • 927-2643 • collectors-wall.com

Anita & Frank Zimmerman, Alice Rau & Wendell Anderson scenesarasota.com

Celebrating Our 36 Year Anniversary!

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View all photos at scenesarasota.com

JFCS Women of Valor Awards T

he Women of Valor Awards was established by JFCS in recognition of the agency’s 25th anniversary of providing hope & healing. The awards luncheon held at Michael’s

On East honored 25 women who are passionately committed to improving the quality of life for all residents in our community. Event chair was Ilene Friedman and Honorary

CAVITITES, DRY MOUTH, OVERWEIGHT, DIABETIC?

Chair was Betty Schoenbaum. Committee members were Judy Cahn, Teri Hansen, Sue Jacobson, Ruth Lando, Marie Monsky & Emily Walsh Parry. Joy Weston, author, “How an Ordinary Woman Can Have an Extraordinary Life” served as Mistress of Ceremonies.

The Women of Valor honorees received a personalized tile and note cards featuring artwork created by local artist Debbie Dannheisser.

Practicing for over two decades in Sarasota, Richard J Greenspan, DDS, educates his pa-

Photography by Cliff Roles

EAT CANDY!

tients that a dry mouth is an unhealthy mouth. Xy-

Marie Monsky & Saint Cacchiotti

Alice Cotman, Gila Meriweather & Mimi Edlin

litol candy and products keep the mouth moist, sugar levels down, reduces appetite and has an anti-microbial effect.

With its low glycolic index, Xylitol is diabeticfriendly and tolerated

Joy Weston, John Fischer & Vivian Kouvant

Rose Chapman & Debbie Dannheisser

well by most everyone.

Visit Palmer Ranch Dental for samples of Xylitol products!

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sarasotadental.com palmerranchdental.com office@palmerranchdental.com Bill Coleman & Margaret Johnson

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Dottie Baer-Garner & Doris Kaplan scenesarasota.com

CURTAINCALL

By Steven J. Smith

THE GOLDEN APPLE DINNER THEATRE

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE

Avenue Q

Shear Madness

Picture all of your Sesame Street friends helping you learn the

The landlady who lives above a Sarasota hair salon has been

alphabet, numbers, and the basics of friendship, community, and

murdered, and every one of those present in the salon at the time

getting along in life. Got that? OK, now change gears for a minute

of her death has a reason to do her in. So whodunit? Could it be

and imagine those same characters facing the challenges, vices,

stylists Tony Whitcomb (Michael Kevin Baldwin) or Barbara De-

pitfalls, and nightmares of the grown-up world: sexual ambiguity,

Marco (Juliana Black)? Maybe it’s antique dealer Eddie Lawrence

racial bias, commitment, joblessness, homelessness — and porn.

(Joseph Ditmyer), or socialite Mrs. Shubert (Lisa McMillan). The

Now, shake up those volatile ingredients, throw in a witty and intel-

solution is up to the police (Timothy C. Goodwin and Jeremy El-

ligent script, hilarious and touching songs, phenomenally talented

lison-Gladstone) — and you, the audience — to figure out.

actor/puppeteers — and Gary Coleman — and you’ve got Avenue Q, the runaway hit of the Sarasota theater season.

Hilarity reigns in this deft comedy, artfully directed by the show’s original co-creator, Bruce Jordan. The action begins as

It’s Sesame Street for adults — on steroids. Be warned. They

the audience enters the theater. Several patrons meander into the

curse, they carouse, they cohabitate, they copulate. And through

salon and, as the audience takes their seats, we see the action

camaraderie, love, and understanding, they find a way to survive.

begin to wordlessly unfold to the strains of Top 40 and disco mu-

Small wonder this show beat out Wicked, winning the Tony award

sic loudly coming from the salon’s radio. The actors never leave

for Best Musical of the 2004 Broadway season.

the stage, not even during intermission, as they interact with the

Princeton (Berry Ayers) is a recent college graduate with a degree in English. Quickly discovering that his degree will get him

audience to work out the clues given during the unfolding of the play to discover the murderer’s identity.

exactly nowhere in his job search, he finds himself living in a run-

The show is also peppered with comic references to current

down apartment on Avenue Q along with a host of similarly dis-

local and national events, which give it a feel of intimacy and im-

enchanted neighbors: Kate Monster (Dianne Dawson), a kinder-

mediacy. The night I saw it, Charlie Sheen’s latest hi-jinx were skew-

garten teacher; Rod (Berry Ayers), a closeted gay banker; Nicky

ered, along with the efficacy of Sarasota’s brand new roundabout.

(Steve Dawson), his slacker roommate; Brian (Erik Emmerson), an

It’s almost as if we’re sharing an inside joke with the characters

unfunny comedian; Christmas Eve (Jenn Abreu), a therapist with

in the play. Those characters, by the way, are all colorful and fun

no clients; Trekkie Monster (Steve Dawson), a grumpy shut-in who

to watch, but my favorite was Ms. McMillan as Mrs. Shubert, the

surfs the Internet for porn; Lucy The Slut (Dianne Dawson); and

socialite. Her timing was spot on, she was a delight to behold, and

Gary Coleman (Ariel Blue), the building superintendent.

she never dropped out of character, even when all the attention was

What ensues is a riotously funny, genuinely moving, and enormously entertaining lesson on how to find a purpose in life and

elsewhere. Kudos also to Mr. Baldwin as salon owner Tony Whitcomb, whose manic, comic energy left us all limp with laughter.

carry on in the cold, cruel world. It is impossible to single out one

Because the audience is directly involved in the play, its out-

particular performance. Each actor/puppeteer brings something

come can actually differ from night to night. So bring your thinking

so special to the table, but I must applaud Berry Ayers, Steve

cap and your sense of humor, and get ready for an unforgettable

Dawson (who, with David Walker, designed the puppets), and Di-

evening of Shear Madness!

anne Dawson — each playing multiple roles to perfection. Under

Coming soon to FST is Ghost-Writer. For more info or to

the inspired, irreverent, and irrepressible direction of Kyle Ennis

order tickets, call the box office at (941) 366-9000 or visit them

Turoff, Avenue Q is, thus far, unquestionably the best show of the

online at www.floridastudiotheatre.org.

2010-11 Sarasota theater season!

For more information about The Golden Apple’s current season, call the box office at (941) 366-5454 or visit their Web site at www.thegoldenapple.com. scenesarasota.com

SARASOTA OPERA Don Giovanni This opera season’s highlight for me so far, Don Giovanni tells the April 2011

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TICKETS Get tickets to performances you won’t want to miss.

story of a heartless womanizer whose dalliances lead to murder — and ultimate revenge from beyond the grave. It is an engaging and at times thrilling production filled with passion, lust, treachery, and retribution.

Lee Poulis, in his Sarasota Opera debut as the title character, wonderfully communicates Don Giovanni’s boundless licentiousness. He is the essence of evil, yet because he so attractive and

Godspell

charismatic we can understand why women are inexorably drawn

April 21 – 24 / Virtuoso / 941.345.7032 Godspell features a series of parables, based on the Gospel of Matthew that are brought to life through song, dance, and Virtuoso Effects.

to him. He sang his role wonderfully. Praise must also go to An-

Hi De, Hi De Ho!, Cab Calloway April 20 - May 15 / Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe / 941.366.1505 Local playwright Larry Parr and actor/singer Nate Jacobs pair up to present a portrait of the legendary fireball of talent, Cab Calloway.

drew Gangestad as Leporello, Don Giovanni’s servant, Danielle Walker as the betrayed Donna Elvira, and Sarah Asmar and Patrick McNally as Zerlina and Masetto a betrothed couple whose relationship is severely tested by the immoral Don Giovanni.

But the pinnacle of the evening for me was Christina Pier as

Boeing Boeing

Donna Anna, whose father, the Commendatore (superbly sung by

Through – April 23 / Asolo Repertory Theatre / 941.351.9010 What seems to be the ultimate fantasy bachelor life turns out to be a dizzingly hilarious over-the-top ride for one man, who finds out that one woman is all he can handle.

Benjamin Gelfand), loses his life defending her honor. Ms. Pier’s

Las Meninas

Non mi dir, bell’ido mio, left the audience absolutely limp.

Through – May 15 / Asolo Repertory Theatre / 941.351.9010 Scandal, seduction, intrigue. An illicit love affair in the royal house of France. A fiercely imaginative look at a rare and beautiful story.

powerful yet soulful soprano voice engages us on a deeply emotional level, and her grief, expressed so beautifully in her final aria, Kudos also to scenic designer David P. Gordon, costumer Howard Tsvi Kaplan, director Peter Kozma, and conductor Anthony Barrese, whose splendid orchestra was so vibrant that it

Deathtrap April 1 – May 14 / Asolo Repertory Theatre / 941.351.9010 A devilishly clever, suspense-filled thrill ride from a masterful mystery writer at the top of his deadly game.

almost became a character in the drama.

The Crucible Robert Ward’s stirring operatic adaptation of Arthur Miller’s

The Innocents April 15 – May 14 / Asolo Repertory Theatre / 941.351.9010 A darkly comic mystery, The Innocents is a brilliant and witty examination of the difference between innocence and naiveté.

Pops: Hitchcock April 15 / Sarasota Opera / 941. 953.3434 In this innovative tribute, clips from many of Hitchcock’s great movies are paired with performances of the original scores by the Sarasota Orchestra.

Spring Surprise!

April 29 – May 1 / Sarasota Ballet / 941.359.0099 ext. 101 The final performances of the 20th Anniversary Season includes a World Premiere by the Dominic Walsh Dance Theatre and The Sarasota Ballet.

The Drowsy Chaperone April 5 – 23 / Venice Theatre / 941.488.1115 A die-hard musical-theater fan plays his favorite album on his turntable and suddenly this quirky, hilarious show bursts to life in his living room.

Tony-award winning play (in which the Salem witch trials serve as a metaphor for the 1950s McCarthy hearings) was first performed by the New York City Opera in 1961, and won the Pulitzer Prize.

Sarasota Opera’s current version, featuring Sean Anderson’s shining performance in the leading role of John Proctor, enhances the luster of this remarkable work.

Anderson, who was last seen as Dandini in La Cenerentola, brings an inspired, soulful interpretation to the doomed Proctor, who finds himself inexorably caught up in the manipulative, hysterical machinations of servant girl Abigail Williams, (movingly sung by Lindsay Barche), with whom he once had an affair and who now leads a band of teen-agers who convince a repressive court that Salem is indeed infested with witchery. Other noteworthy performances in-

The Complete Works of Wm Shakespeare: Abridged

clude Heather Johnson (last seen in the lead role in La Cenerentola)

April 14 – May 1 / Venice Theatre / 941.488.1115 It’s Shakespeare like you’ve never seen it before. From the “Othello Rap” to the “Histories’ football game”, you’ll love this delightful spoof.

as Elizabeth Proctor and Dimitrie Lazich as Thomas Putnam.

The stark sets, designed by Michael Schweikardt, convincingly underscore the opera’s sullen aura. And, as usual, the Sara-

Victor Victoria April 14 - 24 / The Players Theatre / 941. 365.2494 Victoria, on Toddy’s suggestion, becomes “Victor” in order to help her career. However, things become complicated when King enters into the picture, and everyone is forced to choose between love and their careers.

sota Opera Orchestra — superbly conducted by David Neely

Ghost-Writer

its upcoming production of I Lombardi. For more info on this op-

— expertly provides the lush, moody undertones necessary to transport the audience through this tragic, cautionary tale.

Be sure to put Sarasota Opera on your cultural to-do list for

April 6 – June 4 / Florida Studio Theatre / 941.366.9000 A mysterious tale of artistic creation and forbidden love in early 20th century New York.

88

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April 2011

era, as well as other opera-related events, call the box office at (941) 366-8450 or visit them online at www.sarasotaopera.org. scenesarasota.com

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pril is my most irresistible social month, Poodle. My obsession with elegance gets to play out

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Hundreds of beautifully dressed women strolling on the bayfront, the charming cacophony of lilting voices

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and champagne glasses tinkling, a sea of springtime hats in creamy sherbet colors – that’s the magnificence of New

College

Library

Association’s

Pique-nique sur la Baie luncheon.

Wigs & Post Mastectomy of Sarasota

Co-chairing once again this year are Veronica Brady, Chris Pfahler, and Sally Schule. Veronica shared with

Featuring:

me that there will be a big surprise this

• Wigs for Men, Women & Children

year and she doesn’t mean her hat,

• Custom Made Wigs

though she did say that she was going for an out of the box experience with

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her bonnet. Saks Fifth Avenue will send

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couture-clad models down the runway

Select Wigs Reduced to

in the latest designs. The exquisite and gracious Paulette Blair is the honorary chair. Paulette was the creator of Piquenique, oh so many years ago, and we owe the fashionable fun we have each

Owner and European Wig Maker, Tanya Kukrecht, has

spring to her brilliant vision. In addition

been practicing her artisty

to Paulette, the Luminary Sponsors

since 1963, fashioning cus-

include Lydian Bank and Riddell Law

tom hair pieces and wigs

Group. SCENE is a media sponsor

for every hair loss need.

Ever-inventive

co-chairs

Molly

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with Culinary Director, Judi Gallagher, scoured their rolodexes for captivating men who love to cook or could be, ahem, gently persuaded to participate in the Asolo Rep’s new fundraiser, Men Who Cook, featuring special host chef, Giuliano Hazan. Doing the prep work at home, these dashing do-gooders will

stands alone as Longboat Key’s most exceptional restaurant. Chef owned and operated since 1980, this romantic, exquisite, award-winning restaurant is recognized worldwide for its culinary excellence. Upstairs, the Haye Loft lounge and dessert room features an abbreviated menu and live music nightly.

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bring their creations to the Longboat Key Club to be finished off and then served to their adoring tablemates.

Some of the 26 gentlemen contributing their talents are George Adley, Scott Anderson, Bob Bartner, Dr. Todd Horiuchi, Terry McKee, Matt Orr, Bob Plunket, Howard Rooks, and Bill Wise. is

A

mythical

the

inspiration

golden

mermaid

behind

Children

First’s Moonlight FantaSea Gala held appropriately at the Sarasota Yacht Club.

Co-chairs are Dr. Heidi Anderson and Dr. Paul Brannan, Elenor and

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John Maxheim, and Jackie and Jim

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Rolfes. Iridescent blue shimmering tablecloths will set the stage for the sea-worthy gala evening. Event favorite, Mainstream, will provide the dance all night music. The live auction will include a trip to Costa Rica.

The splendid Casey Key home of Ping and Fritz (I adore those names.

They sound like the most fun couple!)

Faulhaber is the setting for the American Red Cross Mad Hatter Tea Party. A delightful new event chaired by

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long-time supporter, Diane McNeel.

All the ladies are encouraged to wear their most fabulous millinery creations.

Prizes will be given out by celebrity judges for most botanical, most creative, and

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April 2011

most

glamorous.

Well-known

local personalities will be serving and pouring for your pleasure. Flamingos figure prominently in the party theme scenesarasota.com

and an amusing activity will be to buy “flocking insurance”, to spare your home for being flocked by the notorious plastic pink flamingos. Of course, some ne’er do wells want to buy just the opposite. They want to pay to have their friends homes flocked! You better protect yourself now! Sponsors are Gulf

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Coast the Foundation of Community, Mattison’s, Organic Nomad, Peter Plotkin, and Buddy Thurman.

With her indomitable spunk, Sandy Loevner, queen of all things Winefest, is once again pulling together an extraordinary wine lovers’ experience.

“Come Discover Your New Favorite Wine” is the theme, with all 37 wineries sending their winemaker or owner to the events. All are boutique wineries making small, limited productions and most of the wine is not available in Florida.

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The winemaker’s dinners are always popular and this year is no exception.

Guest chef Scotty Schwartz from 29 South, Fernandina Beach, FL and local Chef Andrea Bozzollo of Andrea’s will prepare the dinner for Vin Cella and Chef Bob Hurley from Hurley’s in Yountville, CA will prepare his famous dishes at Lindy & Jack McKissock’s home.

The Caviar Seminar features Mote Marine Laboratory’s Siberian Sturgeon Caviar from their aquaculture research.

Chef Anna Toole-Hutchens, Creator, Proprietor of SaborAM Cheesecakes, which are made with wine, will also be involved in the seminar. The Bountiful

Bored with your walls? No need.

Brunch and Charity Auction are the

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major events not to be missed. Sponsors

or majestic mountain look great over the

are too numerous to mention, but a few

TV or in the foyer or across from your bed?

are Iberia Bank, Kerkering Barberio,

A still life in the kitchen to calm, a sunset

Band Law Group, Aladdin Equipment

in the bath to inspire, a masterpiece in the

Company, Synovus Bank, Turner Tree

bedroom to... you get the picture.

and Landscape, and SCENE. Make sure you wear blue to the scenesarasota.com

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Junior League of Sarasota’s Child

Quality Cabinet Recovering & Custom Cabinets

Sarasota’s 1st Cabinet Company Specializing in Cabinet Refacing Since 1984

Kitchens Baths

Advocacy Luncheon at the Hyatt Regency. Jamie Becker, along with cochair Lydia Chapdelain, tells me that in honor of Paint the Town Blue month for child abuse awareness, they are requesting blue attire. Guest speaker is Allie Phillips, former National Executive Director of the Humane Society, who will be discussing the relationship between

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animal abuse and child abuse. Three awards will be given that day: Volunteer

Residential

of the Year, Jesse White of Sarasota Architectural Salvage; Professional of

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the Year, Douglas Staley of the Child Protection Center; and Organization of the Year, The Family Safety Alliance.

Champion Sponsors are Graci & Dennis

McGillicuddy,

Community

Foundation of Sarasota County, Wells Fargo, The Penny Hill Group, Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick, and Williams Parker.

d TRADEMARK

PAVERS c

Barbara Metzler, the author of Passionaries: Turning Compassion into Action is the keynote speaker at the Association of Fundraising Professionals Giving Matters Program’s Gems of Philanthropy

Luncheon.

Co-chairs

are Dottie Baer Garner, Aundria Castleberry,

Audrey

Coleman,

and Mary Lee Richey. Dottie shared with

me

that

everyone’s

favorite

philanthropist, Betty Schoenbaum, inspires her by her motto, “Give while you live.” The mission of the Giving Matters program is to inspire and educate women of all ages to realize their power to transform their community

Paving a Beautiful Path Around Sarasota One Brick at a Time d d

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the benevolent sponsors are Gulf Coast

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April 2011

Every year I look forward to the fascinating and entertaining videos of the honorees at the Community scenesarasota.com

Video Archive Hall of Fame Luncheon.

CVA founder and president, Annette Scherman, has created a valuable asset

to

our

collective

societal

history. Chris Pfahler is once again chairing the event and Judy Fiala is emceeing. 2011 Honorees are the

Bringing NYC Style & Service to SRQ

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is the serene and joyful Gerri Aaron.

Gerri’s late husband, Daniel, was a founder of Comcast and she has been actively involved in numerous charities throughout Sarasota, Philadelphia, and Long Beach Island, NJ. Co-chairs of the evening at Michael’s On East are Teri Hansen, Betty Schoenbaum, and Dr. Larry Thompson. In addition to Gerri, major sponsors are Lee & Bob

dly u o r P ts n e s e Pr

Peterson, Bea Friedman, Bobbi & Arthur Karafin, and Carol & Morton Siegler.

Don’t be surprised to see Kristiana Serbin, chair of this year’s Marie Selby Botanical Gardens’ Orchid Ball, in a lacy red and black flapper costume at the 30th annual gala. She found it in Ybor City to complement the theme of The Great Gatsby - Grit and Glamour of the Roaring Twenties. Expect lots of black and silver with bling and feathers. The

Performances: Easter Weekend

April 21-24 @ 7:30 PM & April 23 @ 2:30 PM

Location: Retreat Auditorium 1200 Glory Way Blvd. Bradenton, FL 34212 Tickets : www.vpaoso.com

Contact for Group Rates: 941-345-7032 Free Childcare • Use code “scene” to save $2 off every ticket

ball is honoring the 30 past chairs of the scenesarasota.com

April 2011

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April 2011

scenesarasota.com

scene | locally SHAPING OUR COMMUNITY SARASOTA MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION NEWS

bers to its board of directors: George Adley, senior mortgage loan of-

David F. Bolger, President and Founder of The Bolger Foundation,

ficer at Fifth Third Bank; Anne Chauvet, DVM, a veterinary neurologist

has donated $2.6 million to Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation

and neurosurgeon and owner of Critical Care & Veterinary Specialists

to create the new Urgent Care Clinic at 6331 S. Tamiami Trail—one of

of Sarasota; Andrea Daniels, an e-learning consultant; John J. Raleigh,

Sarasota Memorial Health Care System’s ancillary facilities. The new

Jr., CFP, of Raleigh & Associates, Inc. and Nanette Swane Rosenber-

4,500 sq. foot facility will have nine patient examination rooms, a phar-

ry, DVM, a veterinarian and veterinary surgeon with Bay Road Animal

macy, a lab, an x-ray area—where physicians are able to take, view

Hospital. Established in 1952, the Humane Society of Sarasota County

and share images with other physicians throughout Sarasota Memorial

is the community’s largest no-kill animal shelter. hssc.org

Health Care System, and ample parking. It is scheduled to open in July 2011. More than 8,000 patient visits are expected in the first year with up to 12,000 in the future.

NEW COLLEGE FOUNDATION ELECTS FIVE NEW TRUSTEES New College Foundation announced the election of five mem-

Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, Inc.’s board of trust-

bers to its Board of Trustees. The new trustees are Ruth I. Drees-

ees approved six grants to Sarasota Memorial Health Care System

sen, Christine L. Jennings, David Lipsey, Dr. Lou Bertha V. McK-

(SMHCS) and the community totaling more than $750,000. Grants to

enzie-Wharton and Julie Riddell. The Foundation raises funds to

Sarasota Memorial Health Care System include $493,126 for a cardiac

support New College of Florida, the state’s designated honors col-

monitoring system; $117,988 for an Endobronchial Ultrasound System

lege, ranked among the country’s finest and most affordable liberal

(EBUS)—a medical device that allows physicians to perform proce-

arts institutions. ncf.edu

dures in the lungs via the throat and bronchial tubes; and, $61,000 for the nursing, education development and research department and

SARASOTA OPERA ANNOUNCES NEW WORKING PROFESSION-

portable video teleconferencing equipment. Recipients of nonprofit

ALS BOARD

healthcare-related grants included Mental Health Community Centers,

Sarasota Opera announced the formation of the Working Profes-

Inc., Suncoast Communities Blood Bank, and the Cancer Support

sionals Board, established professionals who will serve as an addi-

Community. smhf.org

tional resource to the Board of Trustees to raise awareness of Sarasota Opera and its wide variety of performances and educational programs.

THREE YEAR GRANT AWARDED TO REALIZE BRADENTON

Founding members include Scott Anderson, Gift Planning Officer, Gulf

The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation through its Donor

Coast Community Foundation; Matthew Bower, Senior VP and Mar-

Advised Fund and in partnership with the Manatee Community Foun-

ket Executive, PNC Wealth Management; Realtor Eric Massey; Sandy

dation awarded $149,639 to Realize Bradenton to fund Project Art

Santilli, VP and Regional Retail Manager, Fifth-Third Bank; and Jeffrey

Connects. This grant is matched by $286,944 of local funds and in-

T. Troiano, attorney with Williams, Parker, Harrison, Dietz and Getzen.

kind donations to support the $436,583 initiative. Project Art Connects

sarasotaopera.org

will develop a core of young people who will inform and engage the community with downtown Bradenton’s future by connecting art and history in public places and social media. realizebradenton.com

THE JACKSON LABORATORY TO LOCATE IN SARASOTA COUNTY The Jackson Laboratory will partner with the University of South Florida (USF), Sarasota Memorial Health Care System, Sarasota Coun-

GRAPEVINE COMMUNICATIONS ADDS 3 NEW ACCOUNTS

ty and the Gulf Coast Community Foundation to develop genetics-

Grapevine Communications, a leading full-service advertising,

based treatments for heart disease, Alzheimer’s and diabetes at a new

marketing and public relations agency, announced the addition of Gus-

research facility in Sarasota County. The project, to be known as The

tafson + Associates, Mount Vernon Property Management, and Quasar

Jackson Laboratory–Florida, will be housed in a 120,000-square-foot

BioTech to its list of clients. The new clients represent the healthcare,

facility in Sarasota County and will also occupy laboratories and offices

real estate, and cosmetics and personal care industries and serve con-

within the USF Health complex in Tampa. The Gulf Coast Community

sumers locally, nationwide, as well as internationally. grapeinc.com

Foundation and other community agencies will spearhead the creation of a major biomedical village, including research, clinical medicine, ed-

HUMANE SOCIETY NAMES NEW BOARD The Humane Society of Sarasota County has named five memscenesarasota.com

ucation, and residential and retail activity, that will grow up around the new Jackson facility. gulfcoastcf.org April 2011

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CARLSONS

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION AND WILSON-WOOD FOUNDATION RECOGNIZE UNSUNG HEROES The Community Foundation of Sarasota County and the Wilson-Wood Foundation honored three community heroes—Litoriel “Nene” Hernandez, Barbara Higdon, and Bill Johnson—in the 17th annual Unsung Hero Awards. Litoriel “Nene” Hernandez dedicates his life and his carpentry skills to St. Jude Church and many in the Hispanic congregation who need his help. Barbara Higdon, or

Don Carlson and his courteous staff can save you time and money by providing professional service & care for all of your dry cleaning needs.

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“Grandma Barbara,” distributes clothing at Mothers Helping Mothers, serves meals at the Salvation Army, and takes care of chil-

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walking them to and from their school buses

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and providing a safe haven for families with working parents. Bill Johnson, or “Mr. Bill” as he’s called, provides almost full-time volunteer service to Girls Inc., picking up food donations, driving girls to field trips, serving as the nearly full-time volunteer facilities supervisor, and mentoring troubled girls as a “GI Guy”.cfsarasota.org STUART ROTH CALLS COMMUNITY TO ACTION WITH “THE MAKER’S DOZEN” After touring Easter Seals and learning about its plan to transform its Day Training Center into a state-of-the-art facility, Center for Faith and Freedom founder Stuart J. Roth asked himself, “What would it be like to awaken to the realization that I cannot move my arms and legs but could see, think and absorb my surroundings? What would life be like for my family and loved ones? Who would help me through the challenging days ahead?” He responded by donating $10,000 and he is now challenging a dozen other citizens in Sarasota and Manatee County to give $5,000 each toward making life better for young adults with the most profound disabilities. Ladd Waldo, CEO & President of Easter Seals is calling it the “Maker’s Dozen.” To answer this “call to action”, call 941.355.7637. easterseals-swfl.org

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April 2011

scenesarasota.com

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID MANASOTA, FL PERMIT #88

PLYMOUTH HARBOR THE PLACE TO PURSUE PASSIONS Maria and Norbert Berta searched from Naples to Tampa to find a retirement community that fit their lifestyle. “Plymouth Harbor is the only one that didn’t require us to compromise our dreams.”

With the help of Plymouth Harbor’s design team, the Bertas customized their new space and created the perfect home to express their love of contemporary furniture, feature their art collection, and soak in the picturesque water and city views. And with their proximity to downtown Sarasota, they can enjoy a night out on the town or entertain friends in their spacious new apartment.

Their decision provides peace of mind knowing that Plymouth Harbor has a full continuum of care should it ever be needed, and allows them to continue the social and active lifestyle they’ve always enjoyed.

When quality of life, smart planning and freedom to pursue passions and new interests are top priorities, Plymouth Harbor is the wise choice. Call us today for a tour of our award-winning campus, luxury accommodations and amenities.

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