February 2024 by SARASOTA SCENE Magazine

culture scene

VIRGINIA SHEARER

& SARASOTA ART MUSEUM

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Sarasota Orchestra Celebrates 75 Years Asolo Rep’s Inherit The Wind FEBRUARY 2024 $3.95 U.S.

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contents•features

72 72

SARASOTA OPERA’S WOMEN OF THE SEASON

By Scott Ferguson

COMPOSING A FUTURE Sarasota Orchestra Tunes Up

retrial Asolo Rep Stages Inherit the Wind By Scott Ferguson

AN UNPRECEDENTED DIALOGUE YAYOI KUSAMA:

for its Next 75 Years

A LETTER TO GEORGIA O’KEEFFE

By Scott Ferguson

By Kaileia Suvannamaccha

On the Cover virginia shearer of sarasota art museum posing with art by judy pfaff. photo by nancy guth.

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

contents•departments

• socialscene • 18 THE LIST February Events Calendar party pics

40 42 44 46

Selby New Year’s Eve Gala SMHF The Hospital Gala Selby Phase One Grand Opening Sunshine From Darkness Inspiration Gala

• insider • 50 the find Valentine’s Day By Gina Liga

66 around town Virginia Shearer By Julie Milton

100 education Matters Pioneering Youth Development: Roscelyn Guenther and Boys & Girls

• philanthropy • 56

An inspirational legacy George Barthalow and State College of Florida Foundation By Tom Reese

keeping black history front & center Frank and Katherine Martucci & Gulf Coast Community Foundation By Tom Reese

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

Club of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties By Joshua Thomas Bray

• a r t s + c u lt ur e • 104 BEST SEATS Performing Arts Calendar

110 art scene Visual Arts Calendar

114 meet the artist Meg Krakowiak

Be Informed Be Entertained Be SCENE scenesarasota.com

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f r o m t h e • pub l i s h e r ur Culture Scene issue showcases how great it is to participate in the vibrant arts, culture, and philanthropic activities in Sarasota. This is truly a visual and performing ar ts community combined with civic reflection and social overtones. In this issue you will enjoy a diverse group of topics and marvel at the cultural depth of this city. “Around Town” features the very cultured and colorful Virginia Shearer, Executive Director of Sarasota Art Museum. Virginia shares what inspires her selection process for the museum’s exhibitions, its many educational offerings, as well as her long-term goals and vision for SAMs future. Sarasota Opera begins its Winter Season this month with its “women of the season”—Carmen, Lucia and Luisa. Striking a balance of favorites and less frequently per formed operas, Sarasota Opera presents Bizet’s Carmen, Donizetti’s Lucia de Lammermoor, and Verdi’s Luisa Miller—operas reflecting the times and societies of 19th century Europe. It finishes its season with the rarely performed Haydn’s Deceit Outwitted, a light comedy. We are blessed indeed to have an opera company of such high quality in our midst, a company which shines bright in our cultural and artistic landscape. And speaking of high quality, our beloved Sarasota Orchestra celebrates a huge milestone—its 75th season. In “Composing the Future”, CEO Joe McKenna is excited about SOs musical journey toward a new Music Center, a new music director and new creative heights. Please enjoy the read, and if you are not a SO goer, I encourage you to experience the beauty and joy of its sights and sounds. This month, Asolo Rep stages the explosive American classic Inherit the Wind—inspired by what is referred to as the most important trial of the 20th century—the Scopes “Monkey Trial”. This intense courtroom drama is directed by Asolo Rep’s new Producing Artistic Director Peter Rothstein. It runs through February 24, so be sure to get your tickets. Being the publisher of Sarasota Scene comes with some fantastic privileges, including the opportunity to sponsor productions like Inherit the Wind. I can’t wait to attend opening night, which is always exciting, especially given the anticipation of an entertaining and thought-provoking play. For sponsors and other generous donors, opening night for every Asolo Rep production includes a preshow dinner on the mezzanine with presentations providing insight into the play and the chance to interact with production insiders, adding a unique and enriching dimension to the overall experience. It’s a wonderful evening and for each production I sponsor, I take great pleasure in introducing someone new to this experience and sharing the evening. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens has a new exhibit in its Jean and Alfred Goldstein Exhibition Series: Yayoi Kusama: A Letter to Georgia O’Keeffe. It

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

Sarasota Memorial Hospital Gala

H JOHN KNOWLES, PUBLISHER john@scenesarasota.com

2024 WINTER OPERA FESTIVAL VICTOR DeRENZI, Artistic Director | RICHARD RUSSELL, General Director

CARMEN

by Georges Bizet Feb. 17 - Mar. 22, 2024

LUCIA DI LAMMERMOOR by Gaetano Donizetti Feb. 24 - Mar. 23, 2024

CARMEN

LUISA MILLER

LUCIA DI LAMMERMOOR

by Giuseppe Verdi Mar. 9 - 24, 2024

DECEIT OUTWITTED

(L’infedeltà delusa) by Joseph Haydn Mar. 15 - 23, 2024

LUISA MILLER

All operas performed in the original language with translations above the stage.

DECEIT OUTWITTED (L’infedeltà delusa)

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(941) 328-1300 • SARASOTAOPERA.ORG

f r o m t h e • pub l i s h e r

sounds fascinating. The creation of immersive vignettes to tell a timeless story of inspiration and admiration between artists adds a unique and engaging aspect to the exhibition. It’s wonderful to see efforts to celebrate and showcase the arts in a meaningful way. In a town filled with philanthropic citizens, each month Scene proudly features people who go above and beyond. One such couple is Frank and Katherine Martucci. Through their donor advised fund at Gulf Coast Community Foundation, the Mar tuccis generously give to both ar ts and human service organizations. In this issue, their story highlights their passion and support of the Sarasota African Cultural Coalition. The mission of SAACC is to preserve, celebrate and share the cultural, artistic, and historical heritage of African Americans in the greater Sarasota area. Its goals are to build a new arts, culture, and history center to host exhibits about Black life and history. The Martuccis are front and center in making this happen. Giving students in need a chance is something George Barthalow is all too familiar with. In his college years, he was given a chance through scholarships he earned and needed to finish his education and embark on a successful life path. He credits State College of Florida with playing an important role in his life. Barthalow has shown his appreciation by serving as an adjunct professor at SCF, and most importantly, through a legacy scholarship at State College of Florida Foundation, which will help make a difference in the lives of others who started out as he did. Please read his inspiring story!

Everything you need for Valentine’s Day. Elegant food, fine wine, fresh flowers, divine desserts and specialty gift baskets. Prepared by us. For you and your sweetheart.

The word “culture” means dif ferent things to dif ferent people. Its most positive and accepted meaning is that it is the idea of personal and humane enrichment—we have lots of that going on in Sarasota. Our community’s emphasis on entertaining, engaging, and giving to many things provides us with enrichment so diverse and compelling you would be hard pressed to find such a positive culture in other towns our size. I encourage you to be part of our cultural scene and be part of our “Scene.” I hope to see you around town!

Serving the Sarasota area for over 50 years Historic Southside Village 1924 South Osprey Ave. Sarasota ∙ (941) 955-9856 MortonsMarket.com 14

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

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Contributing Graphic Designer Laura Guzman Contributing & Social Photographer Nancy Guth Contributing Photographers Harry Sayer Lori Sax Cliff Roles 1834 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.365.1119 | Fax: 941.954.5067 | scenesarasota.com Subscribe at scenesarasota.com/magazine/shop H John Knowles LLC, dba SCENE Magazine publishes 12 issues a year. Address editorial, advertising and circulation correspondence to the above address. Sufficient return postage and self–addressed, stamped envelope must accompany all manuscripts, artwork and photographs submitted if they are to be returned or acknowledged. Publisher assumes no responsibility for care of return of unsolicited materials. Subscription price: $12.95 per year, $19.95 for two years. All contents copyrighted. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.

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941.378.5678 | THEPLUMBINGPLACE.COM JOHN SMITHMAN, OWNER

5678 FRUITVILLE ROAD | SARASOTA, FL 34232 941.378.5678 | THEPLUMBINGPLACE.COM

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thelist

FEB 2024 EVENTS CALENDAR

3 NEW COLLEGE ATHLETICS GALA Funds raised at the inaugural event will support scholarships to allow New College to recruit top Scholar-athletes from across America and Internationally. College Hall | gomightybanyans.com

3 SARASOTA EGGFEST Pinecraft Barbecue is hosting the popular Eggfest again this February. Whether you’ve been cooking for many years or are just thinking of getting into it, this one is a can’t-miss for anyone interested in barbecue. Twenty-five teams will be cooking and handing out free samples fresh off the Big Green Egg. Purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win your very own Big Green Egg. City Island | pinecraftbarbecue.com

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

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CLASSICAL

florida’s classical music station

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2 Circus Arts Royal Gala CLASSICAL WSMR 8 9 .1 w s m r. o r g

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner • Outdoor Terrace • Indoor Dining • Catering • Take Out

Circus performers, surprise performances, passed hors d’ oeuvres, plated dinner and dessert under the Big Top at UTC. Your support keeps the circus arts alive and thriving. The Big Top at UTC | circus arts.org

3 Conservation Foundation’s Party In Paradise Prepare to be transported to a luxurious tropical escape at this unforgettable experience. Enjoy endless culinary delights, peek inside the Burrows-Matson House, help support the Conservation Foundation at the paddle raise, raise your glass at sunset from the waterfront Golden Lounge, then dance the night away at the disco. Bay Preserve at Osprey | conservationfoundation.com

NOW SERVING DINNER 941.906.9575 • CestLaVieSarasota.com WED–SUN • 5-9PM

1553 Main Street Downtown Sarasota

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

wHODUNNIT?!

A limited-time, family-friendly, interactive exhibit!

Solve the MYSTERY beginning March 3 MOTE.ORG/MYSTERY Experience Mystery Reef with your general admission ticket. Mote Aquarium is open daily from 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway • Sarasota, Florida

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3 Sarasota Opera Gala A Masked Ball: Carnevale di Venezia Celebrate the beginning of the Winter Opera Festival with the Sarasota Opera community in a Venetian Carnival where food, drink, and masked merriment take over the Grand Ballroom of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. The evening includes performances by Sarasota Youth Opera and other special guests. Proceeds support Youth Opera & Education programs and the 2024 Winter Opera Festival.

The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota | sarasotaopera.org

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

5 RINGLING COLLEGE LIBRARY ASSOCIATION TOWN HALL WITH MARIE YOVANOVITCH The former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine and bestselling author of the memoir Lessons from the Edge shares insights on the region and the current crisis as well as experiences from her 33year career in the U.S. Foreign Service. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall | vanwezel.org

6 SARASOTA ORCHESTRA’S MASTERWORKS DINNER 5 FEATURING RUNE BERGMANN This unique dinner experience features a short performance

and a moderated conversation with a guest conductor, who will share their insights and approach to making music. Sarasota Yacht Club | sarasotaorchestra.org

7, 14, 21, 28 RANCH NIGHT WEDNESDAYS AT WATERSIDE PLACE Delicious food trucks, live music, night market, vintage mobile bar hosted by Cornerstone and Company and the largest recreational cornhole league in the nation hosted by MVP Sports and Social. Wednesday nights through May. Waterside Place | lwrwaterside.com

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1484 Main Street Sarasota, FL 34236 +1 (941) 312-5566 www.zemiljewelers.net

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4 Mote Marine’s Farm to Fillet Join Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium under the shady oaks for a delicious and inspiring experience at Mote Aquaculture Research Park. Guests will enjoy fine culinary offerings and exclusive behind-thescenes tours of the largest discharge marine recirculating aquaculture research facility in the U.S.

Quick Lunch Specials

QuickQuick Lunch Lunch Specials Specials Seafood Thai Curry

Quick Pad Thai Lunch Sexy Man Roll Specials S E A F O O D T H A I C U R R Y • PA D T H A I • Lobster Roll SEXY MAN ROLL • LO BSTER ROLL

Mote Aquaculture Research Park | mote.org

Lunch & Sun-Thurs 11-10 • Fri & Sat 11- Midnight Dinner Dine In • Take Out • Delivery • Catering

941.955.8404 • 1572 Main St., Sarasota www.DrunkenPoetCafeSRQ.com FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

Program 5 | FSU Center The Sarasota Ballet presents

MAR 8 7:30 PM

MAR 9 2:00 PM | 7:30 PM

MAR 10 2:00 PM | 7:30 PM

Program Media Sponsor

941.359.0099 | SarasotaBallet.org 24

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

Club Havana by Pedro Ruiz | Photo by Erin Baiano

MAR 11 7:30 PM

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7, 14, 21, 28 PHILLIPPI FARMHOUSE MARKET Experience the 14th year of the seasonal Phillippi Farmhouse Market sponsored by Friends of Sarasota County Parks and benefitting the restoration of the 1916 historic Keith Farmhouse at Phillippi Estate Park. Featuring food trucks, arts and crafts, live music and local produce produce from over 60 vendors. A free docent-led tour of the mansion begins at 10:00 AM. Phillippi Estate Park | sarasotaeventscalendar.com

9 ART CRAWL TROLLEY TOUR Visit six different art galleries in Sarasota on this hop on/hop off trolley tour. Discover Sarasota Tours | discoversarasotatours.com

10 CIRCUS RING OF FAME FOUNDATION AWARDS SHOW The Circus Ring of Fame Foundation Awards Show is the Oscars of the Circus Arts. The event honors lifelong achievement, next generation and coach of the year. Awards are combined with performance and celebration showcasing contemporary and traditional circus. Circus Sarasota Big Top | circustalk.com

FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

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THE SHOWTIME BENEFIT ...for Venice Theatre Rebuild

At Venice Community Center

FEB 24 2 @ PM

Sponsored by

JOAN LINO OF HOMESMART HELP VENICE THEATRE REBUILD FROM HURRICANE IAN

Buy tickets now at 941.488.1115, VeniceTheatre.org, or scan the QR code.

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10 The 50th Anniversary Orchid Ball: Infinity This elegant evening will celebrate the 2024 Jean & Alfred Goldstein

Note

Exhibition Yayoi Kusama: A Letter

. . . f l e S o t

to Georgia O’Keeffe throughout the grounds of Selby Gardens’ Downtown

XOXOXO

Sarasota campus. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens | selby.org

OUR WEBSITE

INSIDE THE “BREEZEWAY” MARK SARASOTA,107 S. PINEAPPLE AVE.

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

NORTHSTARFINEJEWELRY.COM (941) 350-9992

1ST ANNUAL MOTORWORKS COUNTRY FEST Saddle up for the first annual Country Fest, where the beer flows and the music is as sweet as a southern breeze. This is an allday event featuring American Idol star Aaron Kelly, Eric Von Band,

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Sig15th An na nual t Fe atu ur e rin gM

ari

smaller think

Nashville recording artist Chas Collins, down-home Southern specialty food truck, a mechanical bull and more. Motorworks Brewing | eventbrite.com

10, 11 DOWNTOWN SARASOTA FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS This is the big one! The Festival will fill Main Street starting at Orange Avenue and heading east to Links Avenue. This event covers more than five city blocks with over 200 national and regional artists. The high level of artistic quality, the accessibility of the free, outdoor festival and the diversity of art has led to the Festival of the Arts’ consecutive rankings among the top 100 art festivals in the nation. Main Street, Sarasota | artfestival.com

Connect with Tidewell to build a brighter community. Over the past 40+ years, we’ve grown beyond hospice care. Now, your generosity can provide music or pet therapy to ease pain at the end of life’s journey. It can give respite to a busy caregiver, or strength to a grieving child. These are just a few of the many ways we’re bringing compassionate full-life care to all. Let’s brighten lives together. TidewellFoundation.org

Tidewell Foundation is grateful to our sustaining annual corporate partners for their ongoing sponsorship of the Foundation’s work. Sustaining Annual Corporate Partners Partner in Excellence

Partner in Compassion

15th Annual Signature Luncheon Exclusive Sponsor:

Alltrust I N S U R A N C E

FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

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11 POETRY MIC Readings of original poems by local poets Michael Maul, Don McLagan, and Linda Keller Pozen. Bookstore1 | sarasotabooks.com/events

11 FREE SECOND SUNDAYS AT SARASOTA ART MUSEUM Enjoy a day of art and family fun at SAM. On the second Sunday of each month they offer free admission for visitors, special performances and art-making activities for the whole family. Sarasota Art Museum | sarasotartmuseum.org

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

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Free

DISTILLERY TOUR Available most days, check our tour schedule and register online. SiestaKeyRum.com

GIFT SHOP & TASTING ROOM MON-SAT 10AM-5PM Reservations not required

14 Sarasota Art Museum Unconventional Evening An immersive and fluid Valentine’s Day event featuring cocktails, dinner, artists and performers flowing throughout each of the museum’s spaces, where you can interact, activate and “be the art.” Sarasota Art Museum | sarasotaartmuseum.org

FL 34234 941.702.8143 Styles that say, SARASOTA, “welcome home” 2212 INDUSTRIAL BLVD.,

SIESTAKEYRUM.COM

styles that say

welcome home

15 SARASOTA ORCHESTRA GALA An evening commemorating 75 years of impact, artistry, and community. The celebration starts with a pre-concert cocktail reception and finishes with an extravagant dinner after the concert. The concert program features Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 3 and Gershwin’s An American in Paris. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall | sarasotaorchestra.org

5251 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (1.5 Miles South of Bee Ridge Rd)

Quality is not expensive, it is priceless.

LeatherGallerySarasota.com guaranteed best pricing!

free financing!

941.993.1057

MON-FR 10-7, SAT 10-6, SUN 12-5

lifetime warranty! FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

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16-18 THUNDER BY THE BAY The 26th annual Thunder by the Bay Music and Motorcycle Festival is at Sarasota Fairgrounds and benefits Suncoast Charities for Children. Headline acts include Molly Hatchet, Grand Funk Railroad and Creed Fisher. The event features continuous live music, over 100 vendors, charity motorcycle rides, bike shows and more. Sarasota Fairgrounds | thunderbythebay.org Our approach is a personal process with expertise and guidance to determine your needs, taste and budget.

Stop by our showroom on Historic Palm Avenue today! 941.951.5454 • 16 S PALM AVENUE, SARASOTA • ARTTOWALKON.COM Hours: Monday — Saturday: 10am to 5pm

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

16-18 SAINT BARBARA 40TH ANNUAL GREEK FESTIVAL Three days of pure family fun filled with delicious Greek dishes, amazing pastries, live Greek music, the Saint Barbara Hellenic Dancers and all things Greek! Check out tons of product vendors under huge tents and tour the church. Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church | stbarbarafestival.org

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discover the possibilities LD

5333 SIESTA COURT • Siesta Key 4B/2B • Pool • Walk To The Beach Offered at $1,359,000

100 CENTRAL AVENUE #K-818 Sarasota • 2B/2.5B • City Views Sold at $950,000

5400 EAGLES POINT CIRCLE #405 Sarasota • 2B/2B • Total Renovation Offered at $749,000

5400 EAGLES POINT CIRCLE #206 Sarasota • 3B/2B • Lake Views Offered at $715,000

2101 MAGNOLIA STREET • Sarasota 3B/2B • Renovated • Furnished Offered at $639,000

1654 STARLING DRIVE #201 Sarasota • 3B/2B • The Landings Offered at $519,000

STEPHANIE CHURCH • 941.724.5448

COURTNEY CHURCH • 941.323.0028

Stephanie@StephanieChurch.com StephanieChurch.com

Courtney@CourtneyChurch.com CourtneyChurch.com

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Catholic Charities Ball The annual event will be held at Michael’s On East and will benefit programs and services in Sarasota County. Join the Diocese of Venice for an elegant evening to celebrate their mission to serve those in need that come for help. Michael’s On East | catholiccharitiesdov.org

SCF Avenues to the Future: Bourbon, Brews and BBQ This year’s event will feature an impressive array of bourbons and craft brews that will have you raising your glass in delight. This event celebrates all things SCF - students, programs and our community. Mingle with local professionals and friends. Your attendance directly supports SCF scholarship students and SCF’s academic programs. SCF Bradenton Campus | scf-foundation.org

BROKER ASSOCIATE

REALTOR®

443 John Ringling Blvd. Ste. F Sarasota, FL 34236 FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

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Celebrate

Federation

19-20

February 25, 2024 | 7 PM Join us as we mark this milestone in Federation history with a joyful celebration featuring the Keshet Chaim Dance Ensemble, a glimpse into the past, present and future of our Jewish Federation, and your first chance to visit

Dessert reception to follow the performance. Buy your tickets: JFEDSRQ.org/Federation65 or call Keely Pastor at 941.371.4546 x 0 event co - chairs : stacy hanan & patti wertheimer Federation @ 65 Sponsor:

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

MORT SKIRBOLL JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL EVENT— THE CATSKILLS The Catskills takes audiences to the height of this Jewish vacation hot-spot, recounting the history of this iconic time and place. Prior to the film, transport yourself back to the beating heart of the Borscht Belt when Jewish vacationers made the Catskills their summer destination and enjoy a nostalgic spread of classic Jewish delicacies. Temple Emanu-El | jfedsrq.org

17, 24 TERRANOVA GRAND PRIX SHOW JUMPING Enjoy brunch in the VIP pavilion and watch Olympians and Olympic hopefuls compete for $65,000. General admission is free. There will also be food trucks and boutique shopping. TerraNova Equestrian Center | terranovaequestrian.com

17 REGGAE RELIEF This is a family-friendly melting pot event showcasing top reggae bands and talented musicians from all

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around Florida. Food trucks, vendors, raffles, prizes, arts, crafts and more. Farm Bureau Event Center | wfla.com/events

22 14TH ANNUAL COOKING FOR WISHES This year’s theme, the Wizard of Oz, features an interactive cooking dinner where guests at each table will prepare a one-of-a-kind four-course meal led by Executive Chef Jamil Pineda and Phil Mancini of Michael’s On East. Circus Arts Conservatory | cookingforwishes.com

23 LIVE ARTS IN MUSEUM SPACES: RINGLING MUSEUM UNDER THE BANYANS With Hermitage Curatorial Council Member Limor Toner and Ring Museum’s Curator of Performance Elizabeth Doud. Ringling Museum of Art | hermitageartistretreat.org

Say “I Do” ON THE BEACH

SANDBAR I BEACH HOUSE I MAR VISTA events@chilesgroup.com

941-778-8712

chileshospitalityevents.com FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

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P R E S E N T E D BY

Walk this Way Join us for FUN, FREE dog-friendly festivities!

Suncoast

Walkathon March 02

Nathan Benderson Park By fundraising for Walkathon,

with vision loss, veterans with disabilities, and children with significant challenges.

ASOLO REP GALA: WE GOT RHYTHM Asolo’s biggest fundraiser of the year featuring a cocktail reception followed by a seated dinner, paddle raise, live music and dancing. The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota| asolorep.org

YOU CAN MAKE A BIG IMPACT for people

Raise funds & sell raffle tickets to earn exciting incentive items!

White

TLASOL -100001

MEDIA SPONSOR

Sign up online at GuideDogsWalkathon.org All donations are tax deductible as allowed by law. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling toll free 1.800.435.7352 within the state. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state. Registration number CH0475.

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

25 JEWISH FEDERATION @65 CELEBRATION Featuring Keshet Chaim dancers, an American-Israeli contemporary dance company dedicated to celebrating the inclusive spirit of Israeli culture and Judaism throughout the world. Experience Sarasota’s newest event center while reminiscing about our past, learning about our present and looking forward to the future. Jewish Federation Event Center | jfedsrq.org

25, 26 RINGLING COLLEGE LIBRARY ASSOCIATION TOWN HALL WITH STANLEY TUCCI Stanley Tucci is an Academy Award nominated actor known for his versatility as an actor, writer, director and producer. He has appeared in over 90 films, countless

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VOLUNTEER SP HERE Radius of our community, centered on our students Contact Madeline Mangas, Community Outreach Coordinator

941-752-5336 MangasM@SCF.edu scf-foundation.org/volunteer

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES SCF Foundation Events

SCF Health Care Services

Assist with SCF Foundation events through set up, clean up, registration, parking, guiding, scholarship application reading, and more.

Be a simulated patient for future health care providers in the areas of dental hygiene, radiography, physical therapy, and nursing.

SCF Performing Arts and Athletic Events

Tutoring and Mentoring

Serve as an usher, ticket taker, concession stand worker, stage crew member, theatre set striker, and more.

television shows, and more than a dozen plays, on and off Broadway. To join the waitlist for this event, visit RCLA’s website. Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall | rclassociation.org

AWARDING MORE THAN $9 MILLION IN GRANTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

It doesn’t need to be NEW to be

AWESOME!

29 SENIOR FRIENDSHIP CENTERS BLOOMING FRIENDSHIPS Celebrate new and old friends while supporting Senior Friendships Centers’ important work. This event will honor Jason Champion, Project Pride SRQ President, LGBTQ+ Community Leader and SFC Program Collaborator. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens (downtown campus) | friendshipcenters.org

Increase student success through academic tutoring, mentoring, providing subject matter expertise, interview coaching, career counseling, and more.

Est. 1962

Find your joy Sarasota’s #1 consignment shop  The joy of shopping  The joy of giving  The joy of recycling  The joy of supporting students and the arts in our community

THANKS TO YOU...

This purchase helped award $500,000 in grants and scholarships during our 2023-2024 Fiscal year.

539 S. ORANGE | 941-955-7859 | OPEN MON-FRI 9-4 & SAT 10-4 | www.sarasotawex.com FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

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scene sponsored

• upcomingevents • March 2 Out of Doors Academy Banyan Ball 2024 This crucial fundraiser will begin with a cocktail reception at 6 p.m. followed by a gourmet dinner, a live auction and dancing to the music by the band “Soiree.” All proceeds will benefit The ODA Fund. The Ritz Carlton Sarasota |www.oda.edu

March 6 Easterseals Abilities Shining Luncheon This luncheon is Easterseal’s annual signature fundraising event and will showcase the amazing work that is done everyday to enrich the lives of children, teens, and adults with disabilities in our community. Michael’s On East | easterseals-swfl.org

March 8 Selby Gardens’ Garden to Plate Wine Dinner A casually elegant outdoor “garden to plate” dining experience on the Great Lawn at Selby Gardens. Enjoy fine wines selected by Michael Klauber that complement an extravagant Muti-course dinner personally designed by Chef Jamil Pineda and Phil Mancini of Michael’s On East. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens | selby.org

March 16 SMHF Women and Medicine Lunch and learn about women’s health from female healthcare professionals. Proceeds will benefit critical needs at Sarasota Memorial. To date, this event has raised nearly $1,180,000. Sponsorship opportunities available. Michael’s On East | smhf.org

March 22 The Sarasota Performing Arts Hall Foundation Transformation Gala The night will begin with a bayside cocktail celebration and dinner catered by Michael’s on East. Guests will experience a thrilling concert by Tony Award winning artist Kristin Chenoweth in the Van Wezel Hall. To conclude the celebration, each guest is invited to a rocking afterparty in the grand foyer. This event supports the vision for a new Performing Arts Center and Van Wezel’s transformative arts education work Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall | performingartsfoundation.org/gala For full list of local events, or to list yours, please visit scenesarasota.com. 36

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

Sara Bay Country Club

The Grass Is Always Greener At Sara Bay Designed by Donald Ross in 1926 and restored in 2018, Sara Bay just completed a regrassing of all tees, fairways and roughs. Located just north of downtown and only minutes from Longboat Key, Bird Key and Lido Key. 7011 Willow Street, Sarasota, FL 34243 941-355-7658 www.sarabaycc.org

For membership opportunities, please contact: Dennis J. Budny, Director of Membership | dbudny@sarabaycc.org

THANK YOU TO OUR 2024 SPONSORS PREMIER SPONSOR

JONATHAN AND MICHELLE MITCHELL / JOEL AND GAIL MORGANROTH HELICOPTER SPONSORS

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

AMBULANCE SPONSORS

Cathy and Frank Burzik

Kosloski Family Foundations

Barbara and Gary Rodkin

Bob and Angelia Wood

FIREFIGHTER SPONSORS

POLICEMAN SPONSORS

ROBERT G. AND BEVERLY BARTNER

DR. AND MRS. JOHN BAMBER

CARL BATTLE AND CHARMAINE DOWNIE/ DONA AND SAM SCOTT

BOAR'S HEAD BRAND CARDIOVASCULAR CENTER OF SARASOTA AND EL SHAHAWY FAMILY FOUNDATION

ANN AND TOM CHARTERS ROBERT AND ANNE ESSNER FPG ADMINISTRATION

CHARLES PERRY PARTNERS, INC./ PAGE SOUTHERLAND PAGE

FRIENDS OF THE FOUNDATION

COMPASSIONATE CANNABIS CLINIC

TOM AND LINDA GARDEN

PHIL AND JULIE DELANEY

GILBANE BUILDING COMPANY

DEANGELIS DIAMOND

GULF COAST COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

DIGITIZE IT MARKETING

LEESAR REGIONAL SERVICE CENTER

FPG TRAUMA/ACUTE CARE SURGERY

DR. CHARLES AND LISA LOEWE MERITAIN HEALTH

GRESHAM SMITH, APG ENGINEERING AND WALTER P MOORE

NUTTER CUSTOM CONSTRUCTION

DR. KATHERINE KEELEY

SARASOTA VASCULAR SPECIALISTS

LUNG ASSOCIATES OF SARASOTA

SHUTTS & BOWEN

RSM US LLP

SIESTA KEY CHAPEL

SARAPATH DIAGNOSTICS

JON AND LIBBY SODERBERG FAMILY FUND

SARASOTA EMERGENCY ASSOCIATES

TURNER CONSTRUCTION/ J2 SOLUTIONS, INC.

TLC ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS WILLIAMS PARKER ATTORNEYS AT LAW.

Proceeds suppor t greatest needs at SMH

smhf.org/events

FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

• socialscene • Macie Miersch Rob and Jennifer Rominiecki

Gail and Joel Morganroth

partypics

Herb Hirsch and Lori Atkinson

SELBY NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA More than 200 guests rang in 2024 at Selby Gardens’ annual black-tie New Year’s Eve Gala. The evening kicked off with a cocktail hour with champagne and passed hors d’oeuvres, while guests enjoyed the annual holiday light display Lights in Bloom®. During a delicious dinner by Michael’s on East, guests were treated to stunning solo performances by the dancers of Sarasota Ballet’s Margaret Barbieri Conservatory. After dinner, DJ Karim kept the dance floor lively before the party moved outdoors to watch the fireworks over Sarasota Bay. Photos by Harry Sayer.

Madelyn Murphy

Elizabeth Moore and Carl Troiano Nikki and Jeff Sedacca

Margaret Wise and Tom Taylor

Vivi Guemez

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

• socialscene • Katherine & Frank Martucci Michael & Marcia Klein

MaryAnn & John Meyer Sally Schule

SARASOTA MEMORIAL HOSPITAL GALA SMHF hosted its 7th annual Hospital Gala at The Ritz-Carlton with 625 guests in attendance. The event raised over $1.4 million and featured SMH’s Level II Trauma Center, the only trauma center in our area. The evening was hosted by the Healthcare Foundation’s Board of Trustees. Jonathan and Michelle Mitchell and Joel and Gail Morganroth were premier sponsors. Other sponsors included the Brian and Sheila Jellison Family Foundation, Sunset Automotive Group, Ambitrans Ambulance, Cathy and Frank Burzik, the Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation, Deb Kabinoff Fund, Flad, Florida Cancer Specialists, the Kosloski Family Foundations, Barbara and Gary Rodkin and Bob and Angelia Wood.

Anne Essner & Stacy Corley

Mack & Kelli Dancer with Veronica Brady & Keith Monda John Knowles & Chad Turnbull

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

CULP-HENSON PRIVATE CARDIOLOGY & INTERNAL MEDICINE PROUDLY INTRODUCES

Dr. Sylvie K. Giroux, M.D. OUR NEW CONCIERGE PRACTICE PHYSICIAN Dr. Sylvie Giroux is board certified in both Cardiology and Internal Medicine. She completed her Internal Medicine residency at McGill University, Montreal and her Cardiology Fellowship at Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. Following her training, Dr. Giroux practiced cardiology in New Mexico and Michigan. She participated in numerous clinical research trials before relocating to Sarasota to be closer to family. She is fluent in both French and English and is an avid racing fan who served on the Montreal Formula One medical team. She is passionate about patient care and prevention and has spoken at many events to raise awareness for heart disease in women. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States. The first Friday of February, American Heart month, is dedicated to raising awareness about heart disease and women. Dr. Giroux emphasized that we have been doing an excellent job in breast cancer screening in American women but we have a long way to go when it comes to cardiac screening. She looks forward to continuing her work with women’s health in Sarasota. “Dr. Giroux shares our firm belief in the importance of exceptional patient care and communication. Her patient-centered approach ensures that each patient is treated with utmost respect and consideration. She is committed to fostering a collaborative relationship that empowers patients to take an active role in their health care.” – Stephen Culp, MD, FACC, FSCAI

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Giroux, please call

941.929.7272

Address 1250 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 201 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE Sarasota, FL. 34239 •FEBRUARY CulpHenson.com

I’m fan. our t s e I’m y gg r i u b o st • s o c i a l s c e n e • your I’m y r bigge . m ’ n I a you I’m st f fan. est . I’m fan. igge g b n t g a r s i f b ou st gge your your I’m y r bigge r bi m . m u ’ ’ n o I I a y . t f u n n. est . I’m gges t fa m yo t fa ’ g n i s I b a g e . f i g b n our ’m big est t fa our our I’m y an. I bigg y ’m y . f gges r n i t m a u ’ b es tf n. I m yo our our bigg gges t fa r n. I’ i s I’m y u b a e I’m y o f g r y . g t u n i s m o a ’ est b e f our I’m y bigg an. I est bigg y . f g r n g t m u a ’ i I’m m yo st f gges ur b an. I fan. n. I’ r bi igge t m yo st f a ’ u b s f I o e r y . ’m est i gg our you fan ur b ’m y bigg an. I est o I . I’m f g r y . g t u n i st m o s a b ’m y n. I’ igge st f igge our I b a e b y . f g r n r g t m u u fa I’ bi es yo your fan. gest bigg your . I’m g t m r n ’ i s m I a u ’ b e f o I . t g n your fan. I’m y gest gges t fa . i g t s m ’ b n i e s I b a g e our an. big i gg st f our I’m y ur b an. ’m y n. igge f o I . b y . n t a r n f t fa a ’m es f s I g t e you . g t s g n i e s r g a bi you ur b bigg igge st f your an. I’m gest m yo our ur b ’ igge y o I m ’ y . I m n ’ m tf n. big t fa an. I n. I’ ou gest fa biggesm your t fan. y gges ggest f t fa m i ’ ’ r s g b I I u e i bi our fan. your b . I’m yo st fan. ur bigg n e I’m y I’m your m o ’ a g y I f g m st an. r bi faGARDENS an. n. I’ PHASE ONE GRAND OPENING st f r bigge ’m youSELBY e st f t g s g e bi ’m you fan. I biggMarie r Selby Botanical Gardens celebrated the grand-opening of phase one of u o ’m y t fan. Ibiggest ’m your I . n its three-phase Master Plan for its Downtown Sarasota campus. With more than s I fa igge your st fan. b m ’ r I e $57 million raised and the Phase One Campaign Capping Challenge completed, you fan. bigg the opening of the world’s first net-positive energy botanical garden complex gest ’m your an. I has arrived. Opening ceremonies included Choral Artists of Sarasota performing

feb. 9 -10, 2023

“America the Beautiful,” and remarks by Joel Morganroth, M.D. (Chair, Board of Trustees), Jennifer O Rominiecki (President & CEO of Selby Gardens), Mayor Liz Alpert (City of Sarasota), Jean Weidner Goldstein, Cornelia Matson, and Pauline L. Wamsler (Campaign Chairs and Trustees), Richards Roark (OLIN Studio), Robert Shemwell (Overland Partners), and John LaCivita (Willis Smith Construction). Jennifer Romeniecki

Cornelia Matson, Audrey Robbins, Joel Morganroth Donna Koffman & Elisabeth Waters

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

SarasotaArtMuseum.org (941) 309-4300

Feel something here Take in the art. SHOP for the unexpected. Savor the flavors of Florida. There’s nothing like it in Sarasota – or anywhere else.

CELEBRATING 10 SEASONS OF DARING BLACK BOX THEATRE IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN SARASOTA.

PURCHASE TICKETS AT URBANITETHEATRE.COM/SEASON FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

• socialscene • Tom Arnold, Taylor Karp Teymuri, Sarah Karp Renkliyuz, Marlene Hauck, Amie Austin & Jeff Peterson

Bunny Skirboll & Shep Englander

SUNSHINE FROM DARKNESS INSPIRING HOPE DINNER

Sydney Koffman, Kelvin Foster & Linda Larsen

Sunshine From Darkness, a nonprofit dedicated to funding local mental health services and programs and mental health research, held its Inspiring Hope Dinner at The Ritz-Carlton. Nearly 370 guests heard from the “Faces Behind the Stories”—Roger Capote, Kelvin Foster, Sydney Koffman and Linda Larsen—who talked about finding the light through their mental health struggles. The keynote speaker, comedian, actor, writer and producer Tom Arnold, shared heartbreaking stories about childhood trauma and his decades-long battles with addiction and anxiety. The 2024 Lee and Bob Peterson Legacy Award was awarded to Bunny Skirboll, founder of Compeer, Inc. Co-chairs were Amie Austin, Ph.D., Sarah Karp Renkliyuz and Taylor Karp Teymuri. Photos by Harry Sayer.

Ben & Sharon Kunkel

Raleigh Mosely II

KC Swett

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

Brighter

Futu res begin with

You !

SPARCC has been serving survivors of domestic and sexual violence, and their children, in our community since 1979.

Donate today at www.SPARCC.net! A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL FREE WITHIN FLORIDA 1-800-435-7352 OR WWW.FRESHFROMFLORIDA.COM. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. REGISTRATION NUMBER CH580

FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

investment tips

Phillip Dickson, CEO & Founder of Monorail Photo by Curtis Anderson, Jr.

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

with

phillip

How To Create A Successful 5 Year Financial Plan Like every person on the planet, you have dreams you wish to pursue, a lifestyle you aspire to lead, and goals you want to conquer. You have vivid images in your mind of the life you envision for yourself. But how do you turn those images into reality? Each person’s path will be different as everyone is unique. But, a concrete plan of how you plan to fulfill your vision will be a key pillar to your success —and that plan must include your finances. Money impacts practically every aspect of life, so arranging your financial affairs in a way that aligns with your vision is crucial. How Can a Five-Year Financial Plan Help You Achieve Your Financial Goals? Think of a five-year financial plan as a road map: there’s a destination and a series of steps outlined to help you reach it. A financial plan will act as a guide, helping you make wise financial decisions. It will allow you to assess whether you’re making progress on your goals and inching closer to your desired lifestyle. Also, it will hold you accountable and impose a healthy dose of discipline when it comes to your spending habits and learning how to make a budget. How to Build Your Five-Year Financial Plan in Five Easy Steps Do you swell with anxiety every time you ponder reviewing your finances? Well, you don’t have to! Managing your money doesn’t require knowing any complex math or the assistance of pricey financial advisors. By sticking to the following steps, you can craft a solid financial plan without straining your wallet or your brain. Step 1: Define Your Goals Knowing your goals is the first step. You need to clearly define what you wish to achieve at the end of the five years.What would you like your net worth to be? Are you planning to buy a home? How much traveling do you foresee doing? What level of disposable income will you require to sustain your lifestyle? Do you want to eliminate your debt entirely or maybe just your student loans? These are all relevant questions you can ask yourself. When setting your money goal, consider employing the SMART framework. Ensure they are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely. Step 2: Assess Your Current Financial Situation Now that you have your goals listed, it’s time to take a peek at your current financial situation.

Firstly, measure your income relative to your expenses. Are you earning enough to pay your bills and maintain a savings account adequately? Are you left with spare cash each month to splurge on your hobbies and passions? Could you get more lucrative deals on your everyday shopping, vacations, utilities, phone, internet, etc.? Secondly, calculate your net worth, meaning the difference between your assets and liabilities. Do you own a diversified portfolio of investment products? If so, are your investments generating a respectable return, or does your asset mix need some strategic tweaking? How much debt do you carry, and what rate of interest do you pay? Is it worth consolidating your debt to secure a lower rate? Step 3: Outline What You Need to Do to Reach Your Goals The next step is to map out specific actions you’ll need to undertake to accomplishes your goals. Some things you may want to consider are: • Establishing an emergency savings account • Starting an investment portfolio, or if you have one already, optimizing it • Paying off your most financially crippling debt • Creating a budget to better track your expenses and reign in excessive spending • Boosting your income with a side hustle or rental property • Setting savings targets for your retirement, vacation, down payment on a home, etc. Step 4: Implement Your Plan Now it’s time for action! This step entails gathering all the tools and knowledge needed to execute your financial plan. It may include financial apps and software subscriptions, brokerage accounts, travel rewards credit cards, and maybe a brief consultation with an expert. Step 5: Monitor Your Progress and Update Your Plan as Necessary Tracking your progress to ensure you’re heading in the right direction is essential. Are you adhering to your budget? Are your investments generating the returns you expected? Are you on track to hit your savings targets? If you’re falling short in certain areas, it’s time to investigate why and what you can do to get back on track. Ensure your financial plan is always in sync with your current life trajectory, as well. A career promotion, marriage, the birth of a child, and other major life events or milestones may render your original plan obsolete - be prepared to revise it accordingly.

Whether it’s the next month or the next 5 years, Monorail can give the financial framework you need to put your money where it matters.

Visit monorail.com to see how Monorail can help you budget and save. Download the Monorail app today to get started on your investment journey FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE 941.925.2121 | monorail.com | pdickson@monorail.com

• insider •

the find By Gina Liga

Love is in the air with these Valentine’s Day finds!

2 50

Statement Juleve Ring

Narcissist 5 Piece Gift Set

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

24 Piece Heart Gift Box

4 5

Love Ring

Mackenzie Childs Sterling Heart

FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

TheFIND 1. STATEMENT JULEVE RING A stunning pink 2.80 carat natural oval Spinel statement Juleve ring. The gem is surrounded by .83 carat total weight of brilliant natural white diamonds in an 18 karat yellow gold halo setting. The Gold and Diamond Source | 3800 Ulmerton Rd, Clearwate 2. NARCISSIST 5 PIECE GIFT SET Fall in love with Buff City Soap’s best-selling scent with this 5 piece set. Narcissist is a subtle yet luxurious scent, combining the sweetness of raspberry and peach with the warm embrace of patchouli and sandalwood. Includes a moisturizing soap bar, a bath bomb, a body butter, a body scrub and a shower oil. $59 | Buff City Soap | buffcitysoap.com 3. MACKENZIE CHILDS STERLING HEART PLATE A sweetheart of a shape, the Sterling Check Fluted Heart Plate is a blissful addition to any home, and a thoughtful gift for a beloved friend. The check pattern is highlighted with an intricate spectrum of jewel-toned colors. $138 | Wish Boutique | wishonmain.myshoplocal.com 4. 24-PIECE HEART GIFT BOX 10 limited-edition Valentine’s Day hearts with 14 signature pieces in a gorgeous heart-shaped gift box. $65 | Norman Love Confections | normanloveconfections.com

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

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

5. LOVE RING 14 KT yellow gold diamond pave love ring. $980 | North Star Fine Jewelry | northstarfinejewelry.com

UNPARALLELED LUXURY LIVING

The Owen Golden Gate Point Where Every Residence Is A Personalized Haven by Kaileia Suvannamaccha

PREMIER LOCATION AND AMENITIES Designed by MHK Architecture and Planning, The Owen showcases a relaxed, contemporary design that beautifully complements the natural beauty of its surroundings. The exterior, adorned in neutral tones reminiscent of the shore with gentle curves, cultivates an inviting and sophisticated atmosphere. Framed by Sarasota Bay, each residence at The Owen will offer breathtaking views that capture the daily magic of Southwest Florida’s vibrant sunsets. A prime location grants residents easy access to St. Armand’s Circle, worldrenowned beaches, and the continually expanding cultural scene of Sarasota. A spa-like ambiance emanates from the fitness center, where Owen residents can find state-of- the-art equipment and a diverse array of facilities to inspire or enhance holistic wellness and an active lifestyle. Generous spaces cater to activities such as weight-lifting, stretching, yoga, and pilates. The center also boasts a steam room and a massage suite. Moreover, residents reserve the freedom to extend invitations to personal trainers and massage therapists in order to curate a wellness ritual that is uniquely their own. A fully landscaped amenity deck starring an infinity-edge saltwater pool, plus fire pit seating, a separate spa, bar, and grilling area transforms the outdoor experience into a private oasis.

From a visionary collaboration between award-winning Ronto Group and Wheelock Street CapitalThe Owen Golden Gate Point luxury condominium complex emerges in the heart of historic downtown Sarasota. For its exclusive 29 condominium owners, this mid-rise boutique building is redefining what it means to live a luxurious lifestyle, blending distinctive design, prime location, and extensive amenities with unmatched customization opportunities.

The Owen hosts additional common areas for work, relaxation, or entertainment: a social room, a games room, work-from-home stations, Zoom rooms, and a designated conference room—each conveniently designed for warmth and comfort, in addition to functionality and versatility. DISTINCTIVE AND MEMORABLE DESIGN Carrie L. Riley, ASID, IIDA, NCIDQ, President and Licensed Principal Interior Designer at Riley Interior Design, has lent her expertise to create distinctive and memorable interiors that emphasize organic elements, utilizing natural light, wood and wood tones, alongside top quality finishes. The grand two-story rotunda lobby, featuring a winding staircase echoing the shape of the letter ’O,’ sets the tone for the entire building. Secured building access, climatecontrolled resident storage, semi-private elevators, and extensive amenities ensure that residents relish the peace of mind that comes with privacy and convenience.

FULLY IMAGINED RESIDENTIAL RETREATS Each residence will not only have a private elevator lobby that leads to an entry foyer, but also a gourmet island kitchen, equipped with the following top-tier standard appliances: a SubZero side-by-side panel-ready refrigerator/freezer, a Wolf single wall oven, a five-burner gas range stovetop, a vented exhaust cooktop wall hood, a Blanco Quatras 18-gauge stainless steel super single bowl undermount kitchen sink, a House of Rohl pulldown faucet, a wall microwave, and a Bosch panel-ready dishwasher. Large, impact-resistant doors and windows will usher in natural light. With ten-foot high ceilings (except where dropped), recessed LED lighting per plan, and contemporary five and one-quarter-inch baseboards, each residence will exude modern elegance while ventilated wood shelving in closets ensures practicality. Additionally, a spacious covered balcony with glass railings can seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor spaces, culminating in the presence of an integrated stainless-steel Artisan Professional Series hooded grill.

A RARE AND UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY At The Owen, opulence extends beyond common areas. The complex distinguishes itself as the sole new downtown Sarasota building granting full customization options for pre-construction buyers. It prides itself in being able to offer a haven of personalized luxury for every homeowner. With floor plans ranging from 2,263 to 3076 square feet, the variety in square footage can accommodate diverse preferences, from individuals seeking a cozy and intimate setting to those desiring more spacious and open layouts. Flexibility in design, coupled with exceptional quality organic materials and lavish finish selections will guarantee that every residence stands as a testament to individual taste, offering an unparalleled opportunity for customization.

The Owen Golden Gate Point is currently accepting sale contracts. Contracts worth more than $20 million have been processed. PROSPECTIVE RESIDENTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO REACH OUT TO: LRM Group at Douglas Elliman Real Estate 1350 Main Street, Suite 2, Sarasota, FL 34236 941.210.0987.

Homeowners can contemplate their selection from designer collections of Del Conca floor and shower wall materials, flat panel or shaker style Miralis cabinets in various colors, and quartz countertops in an array of hues. Thoughtful design considerations, such as concrete block walls and ample airspace between floors, will guarantee minimal noise transmission, prioritizing the comfort and tranquility of each resident.

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SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

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AN INSPIR ATIONAL

LEGACY

George Barthalow and State College of Florida Foundation By Tom Reese • Photo by Nancy Guth

After graduating from Riverview High School in Sarasota in the early 1970s, George Barthalow was left with a difficult decision regarding college. George was planning to immediately attend a full fouryear university, but his father suffered a massive stroke shortly after graduation, putting the family in a difficult financial situation. He did some soul-searching, decided to stay local, and attend Manatee Junior College (MJC) to affordably obtain his associate degree and be close to his family. “MJC provided me with a security blanket that I wouldn’t have gotten elsewhere,” says George. “It was almost like an extended family for me as I furthered my education.”

rate of tuition per semester, and we could take as many classes as we wanted. So instead of paying per credit hour, we paid one affordable fee. I would load up and take at least 18 credit hours a semester.” In addition to finding success in the classroom, George found plenty of success in other areas of college life at MJC as well. He was an active participant in the debate and speech teams and formed tight mentorships with several members of leadership at the school. He was elected Student Body President, met the board of trustees, and worked directly with Dr. Samuel R. Neel Jr, the first president of the college.

Manatee Junior College was established in 1957 by the state of Florida to provide more affordable options for people seeking higher education beyond high school. When George attended in the early 1970s, it was home to less than a thousand students. As MJC continued to grow and expand its operations, in 1985 its name changed to Manatee Community College. Fast forward to 2009. The school changed names again to its current title—State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF)—and began offering students the opportunity to obtain bachelor’s degrees for the first time.

To help with the cost of tuition and day-to-day life, George applied for and received multiple scholarships while attending MJC. The Isherwood Scholarship was given to students who participated and excelled on their college’s speech team. This specific scholarship covered the entirety of George’s tuition. He was also awarded the Selby Foundation Scholarship each semester at MJC, which helped pay for gas, books, food, and other necessities. The Selby Foundation provides renewable scholarships for students who demonstrate maturity, grit, and resilience in the face of adversity. He also received a scholarship directly through the college to help with expenses.

“SCF provided me with a very strong academic foundation for my future success. Back then we were charged a flat

Upon graduating from MJC with his associate degree, George went on to attend the University of Florida to

FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

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“If I could help make their first step easier, it could open a lot of opportunities for them.” obtain his bachelor’s degree. He continued his education at the University of South Florida and received a master’s degree in the field of guidance and counseling. He began working as a counselor for the state of Florida and worked his way up to managerial positions in a short time. “My time studying at MJC was a nurturing environment for me. The professors really cared and wanted to help as much as they could. It wasn’t like attending a massive university with 30,000 students and getting lost in the crowd. It gave me the confidence I needed to keep learning and furthering my education.” George wanted to continue that for other students just starting their higher education and eventually found himself back at the place where it all started. In 1993 he began teaching part-time at Manatee Community College as an adjunct professor. Today, George still teaches part-time at the college, known now as SCF. Through his work with the state of Florida and SCF, George was able to invest his earnings and build a portfolio that allowed him to consider the possibility of becoming involved in philanthropy. He decided to establish a legacy fund that will provide scholarships to students beginning their higher education at SCF. “I started thinking about what to do with some of the money I’ve saved. After carefully thinking it over, I decided I really wanted to make a difference in the lives of others in my community. I thought the best thing I could do is leave a legacy scholarship and help other students that started out like me. Maybe some of these students are strapped financially. If I could help make their first step easier, it could open a lot of opportunities for them.” This scholarship will take effect after his passing. It will be named The George A. Barthalow Endowed Scholarship Fund, and it will help students reach their higher education goals generation after generation.

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

Despite attending three different colleges, George chose SCF for his philanthropy because it always felt like home. As both a student and adjunct professor, he felt like he made a family with his fellow students and professors. He recalls a time where things came back to him full circle, and realized he made an impact on others. “I was working in my full-time job as an area supervisor and all of us were away at a training conference in Orlando. I walked into one of the meeting rooms and was getting ready to take notes on the presentations when someone came up from behind and tapped me on the shoulder. I looked around and recognized her as a student I taught eight or nine years earlier. I stood up and she hugged me, and then she thanked me. She said, ‘It is because of you that I’m here.’ Come to find out she was a supervisor working for the state of Florida, just like me. She took my Career Explorations class and that’s when she decided to go into counseling. That blew me away. I actually made a major difference in this woman’s life.” George will continue to teach part-time at SCF and hopes to continue to make a difference in the lives of students at the same campus where it all started for him in the 1970s. An amazing journey indeed for a caring and generous person who will leave an inspirational legacy. If you would like to make a difference in the life of a student or discuss gift planning options, please call Cassandra Holmes, State College of Florida Foundation at 941.752.5654, or you can email her directly at HolmesC@SCF.edu.

F OR MOR E I N F OR MAT I ON about State College of Florida Foundation, please visit SCF-Foundation.org.

FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

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KEEPING BLACK HISTORY FRONT & CENTER

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

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Frank and Katherine Martucci & Gulf Coast Community Foundation By Tom Reese • Photo by Nancy Guth

Dating back to when he was a little boy, Sarasota resident Frank Martucci has always believed that all humans are connected to nature and deserve to live with dignity. The Martucci’s philanthropic investments do just that help those with fewer resources live with dignity. This year, Frank and Katherine Martucci made a sizable donation to the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition (SAACC) to expand its efforts to build a new arts, culture, and history center that will host exhibits about Black life and history in the Sarasota area. Frank grew up in Trenton, New Jersey, and was quite active during his time in high school. While he excelled at sports and played for the Steinert High School football team, he encountered challenges with his schoolwork and learning how to articulate his thoughts. His mother taught him from a young age to always face and attack fears head on. He decided to take her advice and join the school’s debate team to expand his writing and speech education. Frank married his college sweetheart, Katherine, and eventually found himself working on Wall Street. He went on to get a graduate degree in Philosophy at Fordham University. Both Frank and Katherine share a passion for philanthropy and highlighting causes they believe in. In 2017, they opened their first fund with Gulf Coast Community Foundation and have contributed to several different initiatives and causes. Gulf Coast Community Foundation has a pulse on emerging issues in our region, allowing philanthropists to learn about funding opportunities where their philanthropic investments can make the biggest impact. Gulf Coast Community Foundation was established in 1995 with the notion of a community caring for its own. The foundation works with over 850 generous philanthropic families to distribute grants to local

areas of need such as health and human services, civic and economic development, education, arts and culture, and the environment. To this day, Gulf Coast Community Foundation has surpassed granting more than $536 million. Frank and Katherine have been longtime supporters of the Foundation and its efforts. Frank and Katherine recently commissioned a painting by artist Robert Crofut entitled “Faces of Valor” that is on loan to Gulf Coast Community Foundation and is proudly displayed at their Philanthropy Center in downtown Sarasota. The painting depicts an African American Civil War soldier in the midst of battle. “The purpose of having this painting commissioned is to embellish and make aware of the contributions of African Americans to this country,” says Frank. “This is my purpose and driving force along with this deep belief that there is a corresponding relationship between all things in nature.” Gulf Coast Community Foundation connects donors like Frank and Katherine to causes they are most passionate about and works to create the maximum impact from their generosity. Because of Frank’s passion to preserve and celebrate African American history, Gulf Coast Community Foundation introduced him to Vickie Oldham, a former higher education administrator and TV journalist. In 2015, the City of Sarasota funded the Newtown Conservation Historic District project, also known as “Newtown Alive.” Vickie pitched her proposal for the project and began working with the City to trace the history of Sarasota’s oldest African American communities. The overwhelming success of the project led Vickie to spearhead a new project with the vision of creating an arts and cultural center focused on the Black communities of Newtown and Overtown. This

FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

• ph i l a n t hr o p y •

The vision is to build a state-of-the-art facility that will have performance space for Black artists and offer public programs and classes in drawing, painting, photography, writing, health and wellness, leadership and entrepreneurship. project would become the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition (SAACC). Its mission is to preserve, celebrate and share the cultural, artistic and historical heritage of African Americans in the greater Sarasota area and beyond. Frank’s philanthropic advisor at Gulf Coast reached out to Vickie to schedule a tour of the Newtown and Overtown neighborhoods, also known as the Rosemary district, so Frank could learn more about their history in Sarasota. Vickie, Frank and a few others hopped in an SUV and explored the communities. He immediately felt a calling to contribute and help SAACC get off the ground. During her proposal at a City commission meeting, Vickie announced a $150,000 donation from Frank and Katherine to launch the organization. The Martucci gift illustrated that there was support for SAACC’s mission, and it provided to commissioners confidence that the project would be launched successfully. “The Martuccis have been so very supportive,” said Vickie. “They stepped up first with a major gift to us. It was transformative for our start-up organization and created a domino effect. Other donors signed on as partners with us to ensure that the accomplishments of African Americans in arts, culture, and history are amplified in Sarasota.” Vickie and her team were offered the perfect piece of history to serve as SAACC’s first hub of operations—the Historic Leonard Reid House. The modest 1,400-squarefoot house was built in 1926 in Sarasota’s earliest African American community, Overtown, which Leonard Reid, a 62

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

respected community leader, helped to establish. Vickie and her team were able to renovate and relocate the house to its current location at the corner of Orange Avenue and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way in historic Newtown. Gulf Coast Community Foundation was the first organization to hold a private event at the Leonard Reid House. The crowd was moved by the significance of the Reid House and all that it represents for our community. The renovations to the Reid House were completed in January 2024, and a series of soft public openings are now under way to explore its exhibits and learn more about its history. While this is an important first step in SAACC’s plan, there is a desire to create a much larger space next to the Reid House to serve as a community center. “Faces of Valor,” the painting Frank commissioned, will eventually be moved to the community center upon completion. The vision is to build a state-of-the-art facility that will have performance space for Black artists and offer public programs and classes in drawing, painting, photography, writing, health and wellness, leadership and entrepreneurship. It will be accessible to individuals countywide and will provide a safe space for discussions about race, identity, class, social justice, history and culture. GET INVOLVED Frank and Katherine continue to generously give to various causes and serve on the boards of several Sarasota-based organizations. Frank currently serves

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Get your tickets today for exciting Broadway musicals, comedies, dramas, & live music!

on the board of The Sarasota Ballet, Ringling College of Art and Design, and Gulf Coast Community Foundation. Katherine is very involved with Children First, an organization in Sarasota County that provides Head Start and Early Head Start programs to some of the county’s lowest income families and children. She also serves on the Board of Trustees of Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. “We have three wonderful children and five equally wonderful grandchildren,” Katherine says. “We’ve tried to teach them how fortunate they are, and that giving back is imperative. We’re proud to say that our kids have learned that lesson well.” If you are interested in getting involved with SAACC or donating, please visit www.thesaacc.com. If you are interested in learning more about Black history in Sarasota and taking an educational trolley tour of Newtown and Overtown, you can sign up at www.newtownalive.org.

F O R M O R E I N F O R M ATI O N about Gulf Coast Community Foundation or exploring your own philanthropic passions, please visit www.gulfcoastcf.org.

CELEBRATING OUR 75TH SEASON Box Office 941 .748.5875 502 Third Avenue West Downtown Bradenton ManateePerformingArtsCenter.com for all events, dates, and times FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

Nelle S. Miller Seasoned leader takes the reins at

All Faiths Food Bank

For Sarasota resident Nelle S. Mil er, the new year brought a new role: president & CEO of All Faiths Food Bank (AFFB). Mil er was selected for the post following the

Nelle S. Miller announcement of 12-year CEO Sandra Frank’s impending retirement. An extensive Seasoned leader takes the reins at

All Faiths Food Bank

nationwide search discovered the perfect candidate right here in our own backyard. For Sarasota resident Nelle S. Miller, the new year brought a new role: president & CEO of All Faiths Food Bank (AFFB). Miller was selected for the post following the announcement of 12-year CEO Sandra Frank’s impending retirement. An extensive nationwide search discovered the perfect candidate right here in our own backyard. 64

8171 Blaikie Ct. Sarasota, FL 34240 8171 Blaikie Ct. Sarasota, FL 34240

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

and senior leadership team in place,” says Mil er. “I’m so During food distributions, you won’t see Mil er standing grateful to have this opportunity to have an impact on around to socialize or seeking photo opportunities – she our community and fortunate to have a visionary board, is focused on getting food into trunks. Her work with the dedicated and expert staff, and a generous community food bank has infected her with a passion for getting help to provide essential support.” where it needs to go, efficiently and compassionately. She Miller is familiar with the organization’s mission and operations, having served on the board from 2015-2021, including her role as chair from 2017-2020. She also served on the finance, audit, governance and strategic planning committees, chairing the latter two. In addition to her various leadership roles, she has invested years of dedicated volunteer service, lending a hand to sort and pack food, packing backpacks of food for students, assisting with mobile pantries and turkey distributions, and participating in the annual Walk to End Summer Hunger. “This might have been a time in my life when I could be ramping down, but I am doing this because I feel it’s of the utmost importance,” says Miller. “People are hungry and I can help to mitigate that.”

She was first introduced to AFFB when her son was in school and taking part in required community service. She remembers picking up cases of food to donate to the food bank, as well as her son’s participation in the Bowls of Hope event, back when it was at Phillippi Estate Park. But she didn’t truly understand the scope of the organization’s work until Chief Development Officer Denise Cotler invited her to a Sprout Mobile Market and, the following week, to All Faiths’ headquarters on Blaikie Court. Miller was astounded by the size of the warehouse and freezer—and only then realized the magnitude of the need. Over the years, Miller and Frank would have many conversations as AFFB expanded its focus from the old “food in, food out” model to recognizing hunger as a health issue and working to address its root causes. During food distributions, you won’t see Miller standing around to socialize or seeking photo opportunities – she is focused on getting food into trunks. Her work with the food bank has infected her with a passion for getting help where it needs to go, efficiently and compassionately. She

believes not only that ending hunger must be the number one issue addressed by every community, but that access to healthy and nutritious food is an inalienable right.

In looking at Miller’s résumé, one can’t help but notice an abundance of leadership positions. She recently served as the interim CEO of Unidos Now and, prior to that, acted as interim president and CEO of JFCS of the Suncoast. She was until recently the board chair of the Education Foundation of Sarasota County and is an advisory board member for the Boxser Diversity Initiative. Additionally, Miller has been board chair of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, Glasser Schoenbaum Human Services Center and the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, among others. “I’ve never joined a board thinking that, someday, I’d be chair,” Miller laughs. “But as I’ve learned more about their missions and the people who need our help, how can I say no? It’s more than a drive to be a leader—it’s a sense of responsibility.” Before launching herself into nonprofit work two decades ago, she was a tech entrepreneur, helping found and lead several prominent companies. Miller is grateful to be stepping into a strong, stable organization that has earned the trust and support of the communities it serves. “It’s not like I walked into a mess or any problems, as there sometimes are through a leadership transition; Sandra Frank left this organization in great shape, with huge opportunities queued up and an amazing board and senior leadership team in place,” says Miller. “I’m so grateful to have this opportunity to have an impact on our community and fortunate to have a visionary board, dedicated and expert staff, and a generous community to provide essential support.”

(941) 379-6333 • allfaithsfoodbank.org

AROUND TOWN

virginia 66

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

PHOTO BY NANCY GUTH

• insider •

by j u l i e m i lt o n She’s cultured, she’s colorful, and yes, she is an arbiter of good taste in Sarasota! What else would you expect of Virginia Shearer, the leader of our local contemporary art museum—Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College of Art and Design, also known as SAM? So, what plans does this trendsetting trailblazer have in store for SAM in 2024? Sarasota Scene sat down with Virginia at the stellar Bistro on the Museum’s campus for the scoop in between bites of an artfully presented beet and avocado salad. We also wanted to find out what goes into running a successful museum, especially one that is part of our beloved Ringling College.

The iconic Sarasota High School with its Collegiate Neo-Gothic architecture was an interesting choice for a contemporary art museum— a dichotomous approach by Ringling College of Art and Design and Sarasota Art Museum! Please tell our readers what they will find when they enter the doors of this historic building. Upon entering, you’re greeted by a radiant, light-filled space adorned with Leah Rosenberg’s 28 Colors. This mural, a vivid tapestry of Sarasota, captures the essence of local landmarks. The colors, ranging from Selby Gardens’ rich green to the bright yellow of Siesta Key Beach’s lifeguard stand, are a visual homage to the city. Rosenberg, a San Francisco-based artist, infuses each hue with her unique interpretation, making 28 Colors more than just art—it’s a love letter to Sarasota, connecting visitors and residents alike to the community’s cherished spots. Her work creates an immersive, welcoming introduction to both the Museum and the city. What are your thoughts about a contemporary art museum being housed in architecture of the past and how does SAM honor the building’s rich history? Sarasota Art Museum’s use of the historic Sarasota High School is a unique blend of heritage and innovation, following a global trend of repurposing buildings with community

significance. This practice, seen in places like PS1 in New York, transforms structures like old schools and power plants into creative spaces. At SAM, reanimating this beloved building has been special. It’s more than preserving history; it’s about creating a living, breathing space for art that resonates with everyone who has a connection to it. The fusion of historic architecture with contemporary art energizes both artists and visitors. The building’s character and history serve as an inspirational canvas, sparking creativity. When artists visit, the space itself becomes a muse, igniting a flurry of ideas for how their work can be showcased. SAM stands as a testament to how art and architecture can interweave to create something truly extraordinary for the community. The exhibitions you select are thought-provoking and in some cases boundary pushing. Please take us through your selection process. Curating at SAM is an intricate process. We aim to connect with our diverse Sarasota audience, elevate contemporary art discourse, and position SAM as a distinguished destination. Sifting through numerous artists, we focus on those poised for greater exposure or ready for their first solo exhibition. This consideration extends to a broad spectrum of media—from video art and photography to new paintings

shearer FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

• insider •

“SAM IS A HUB OF INSPIRATION AND LEARNING FOR ALL AGES.” and installations. Our mission is to spotlight artists from varied backgrounds and life experiences, particularly emphasizing women artists, who have historically been underrepresented, especially women of color. By doing so, SAM not only showcases a wide range of artistic expressions but fosters an inclusive platform where diverse voices and stories can resonate and enrich the artistic narrative. How do you do to keep things fresh in the gallery space? Artists keep it fresh! We are a non-collecting institution. Our operational model is a kunsthalle, German for “art hall” or “art shed,” which, as distinct from a kunstmuseum refers to a non-collecting institution that presents art on loan from other institutions or individuals. As such, it is incumbent on us to rotate our exhibitions. Our mission is to have an ever-changing schedule of exhibitions by world-class artists. We seek to bring the global art world to Sarasota. The dynamism of the exhibits and the ever-changing flow of messaging presented by the artists keep SAM’s gallery space fresh. In addition to being a museum, SAM has wonderful educational offerings for children, families, and adults. Please tell us more. SAM is a hub of inspiration and learning for all ages. Our Saturday Family ArtLab, from 1 to 3 pm, offers families a chance to explore artmaking in a casual setting. This program, free with admission, allows an adult to bring two children under 17 at no extra cost. Participants can enjoy various Museum activities, dine at the Bistro, or visit SHOP+Museum. Each week features new art activities inspired by our current exhibitions. Additionally, every second Sunday, SAM opens its doors for free, hosting family-friendly performances and art workshops from 11 am to 4 pm. Highlights include live music and Asolo Repertory Theatre’s interactive Activating Words performance. These events, supported by the Charles & Margery 68

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

Barancik Foundation, embody our commitment to making art accessible and engaging for everyone. You have made quite an impact on SAM since your arrival in August 2021. What are your long-term goals and vision for its future? Sarasota’s vibrant growth attracts a global community, creating a dynamic city. SAM has become a joyful haven, drawing visitors worldwide. It’s exhilarating to see SAM as a key reason people visit and return to Sarasota. Recently, a Czech couple, captivated by our events, eagerly inquired about future programs, planning their visits around SAM. This enthusiasm confirms SAM’s role as a cultural magnet and a pivotal part of Sarasota’s identity. Our vision is to make SAM the heart of Sarasota’s art scene, a destination with global appeal. We aim to transform SAM into a cultural and economic landmark, significantly impacting both the local community and visitors from afar. You and your team have developed very creative fundraising events in support of SAM—Art Bash, Unconventional Evening, En Plein Air Wine Dinner, and a luncheon series featuring guest artists. Please share a peek of each and what supporting these events means to SAM. At SAM, our fundraising events are designed with the same creativity and vitality that defines our art. We strive to make each event an immersive experience, encouraging guests to connect deeply with our community. Our annual Art Bash is the pinnacle of socializing in the art world, and we’re grateful for Sarasota Scene’s support. This year’s Unconventional Evening, a Valentine’s Day spectacular, promises a dynamic blend of art, performance, and interaction. Our En Plein Air Wine Dinner in April, a brainchild of the talented Laura Stuart Wood and her team, blends contemporary art themes with exquisite fine dining. Our luncheon series takes a more intimate approach, focusing on artist-inspired

• insider •

cuisine and conversation. These events aren’t just gatherings; they are carefully crafted to transcend the ordinary, creating lasting memories and forging strong connections with our community. In philanthropic Sarasota, we aim to reciprocate the support we receive by offering unforgettable, artistically charged experiences. If someone wants to get involved with SAM, in addition to attending fundraising events, please tell us where they start. SAM offers a variety of community engagement opportunities beyond special events. The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Ringling College provides non-credit, stress-free learning experiences for adults over 50. Unique in the U.S., this program offers intellectual joy without the pressure of grades or tests. Meanwhile, The Studios at SAM welcome people of all ages and skill levels to explore art. Our diverse classes, taught by professional artists and Ringling College professors, range from painting and ceramics to photography and anatomy drawing. These classes are more than just learning art; they’re about building community and enhancing mental wellbeing through shared creative experiences. Additionally, volunteering as a Museum Guide at SAM is a fulfilling way to engage with art. While prior experience in guiding or art history is beneficial, it’s not necessary as we provide comprehensive training. This role is a wonderful opportunity to deepen your understanding of contemporary art and contribute to our community-focused mission. After you leave the museum each day, what are some of your other interests in town? I have an amazing family that I love to spend time with, and I have a great yoga community that helps restore my mind and body after a long week at the Museum. I’m also a wanderer who does not like to structure my free time. I shun planning, obligations and scheduling my off hours. I would much rather go for a long walk in one of my favorite spots in Sarasota with my dog. This gives my mind time to breathe and think about things I do not have time to consider during the week. I go to Siesta Key Beach to walk on the sand, and I kayak and paddleboard at Turtle Beach. There is not a week that goes by that I miss out shopping at The Exchange and Designing Women. I love both of those places! I am excited to see the restaurant scene growing in Sarasota, with all the international flavors and new foods being presented by small business owners. I am super into this ramen house on Clark Road. I’m also a huge fan of bubble tea, which I am glad to say has arrived in Sarasota in a big way. What is your favorite place in the world and why? One of my favorite places in the world for art is Shanghai. If ever I am presented with the opportunity to visit Shanghai, Beijing, and other provinces in China, I will be there in a moment’s notice. It has been a privilege and honor to experience art with Chinese colleagues throughout my career, and I will go back again and again. In my dream life, it’s a forest in Puget Sound. I go there every year to walk among the redwood trees, look at the ferns and smell the earth. I feel very small, because the trees are so big. It is an annual event each summer in my life because it makes me feel alive.

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For more information on Sarasota Art Museum exhibitions, classes, and events, please visit sarasotaartmuseum.org. FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

SOTA RESIDENCES & HOTEL FULL SPEED AHEAD by c i n dy c o c k b u r n

LUXURY PROJECT WILL CHANGE THE FACE OF DOWNTOWN OFFERING SARASOTA’S FIRST BOUTIQUE HOTEL ON MAIN STREET Trepp Developments President Rodrigo Trepp is excited to announce that demolition is ongoing as his team creates the new SOTA Residences & Hotel. The sophisticated mixeduse project will change the face of Main Street for those who wish to live, work and play in the heart of downtown. “We are full speed ahead for 2024,” he commented. “In the next month, we will be announcing the addition of a full-service, VIP concierge service plus unveil the array of amenities offered for what will be Sarasota’s first boutique hotel.” CHANGING THE FACE OF DOWNTOWN SARASOTA Located at 1703 Main Street, SOTA will include 35 spacious residences atop 120 hotel rooms in a 16-story tower with Hoyt Architects named as the building designer and Architect of Record. The interiors are designed by New York City-based and awardwinning Andre Kikoski Architect.

of thoughtful materials and the finest European furniture, craftsmanship and design.

Due to its height and distinct design, SOTA will be a standout piece of urban architecture in the center of Main Street. Separate hotel and residential lobbies will be located on the ground level with hotel reception and amenities on the fifth floor. There will be six floors of condominium residences starting on the eleventh floor. SOTA OFFERS THE FIRST HOTEL ON MAIN STREET The hotel reception area offers breathtaking views of the pool deck and restaurant. Surrounding a custom-made reception desk, light wood panels and backlit quartz pull guests into the space. The centerpiece of the fifth floor is the restaurant and bar, eventually spilling onto a lushly landscaped pool deck which also includes lounge seating and dining options.

Located on the Penthouse level, the 16th floor SOTA Residents’ Social Lounge provides a luxurious space for residents to relax, gather and entertain. The lounge offers a beautifully designed space with large screen TV, catering kitchen, bar area and limited liquor lockers. Step out onto the terrace of the 16th floor to enjoy the sunset with generous gas grill, outdoor dining and lounge area with fire table. Residents will enjoy cutting-edge design with the convenience of hotel services at their doorstep. SOTA offers 120 hotel rooms as a Tapestry Collection by Hilton and managed by Commonwealth Hotels. Michael Saunders & Company, known as the premiere luxury real estate firm on Florida’s West Coast, is selling two-and-three-bedroom residential condominiums starting at approximately $1.8 million.

With a neutral palette and warm wood accents, Kikoski designed the restaurant, bar and surrounding lounge to be a place to gather with friends and family for curated cocktails and a distinct menu with views of Main Street. The square bar will be the centerpiece featuring a custom light fixture inspired by palm fronds with over 350 individual pieces of glass and wood suspended from the ceiling above. URBAN, TROPICAL, SOPHISTICATED AND CASUAL ALL AT ONCE A fitness center with private massage room for residents adds to the possibilities for leisure and entertainment. Meeting and function rooms allow for memorable gatherings. SOTA Hotel rooms and suites cocoon guests with the same blend

SOTA Sales Gallery: 1734 Main St., Sarasota, FL 34236 Property Address: 1703 Main St., Sarasota, FL 34236 How to schedule a private appointment: 941-462-3900 | info@TheSota.com | TheSota.com

Women SAR ASOTA OPER A’S

OF THE

season By Scott Ferguson

When Sarasota Opera’s Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Victor DeRenzi and General Director Richard Russell were planning the company’s 2024 Winter Opera Festival, their goal was to strike a balance between perennial favorites and operas that are less frequently performed. Mission accomplished — the season includes two of the art form’s most popular works, Georges Bizet’s Carmen (Feb. 17-March 22, 2024) and Gaetano Donizetti’s Lucia de Lammermoor (Feb. 24-March 23, 2024), as well as Giuseppe Verdi’s Luisa Miller (March 9-24, 2024). The characters and the operas themselves reflect the times and the societies in which they were created, 19th century Europe. “Carmen is a very strong-willed woman,” Russell says. “She knows her mind and is absolutely in control of her life, even if it leads her down a bad path. Lucia is the opposite. She’s in love with a man, but she's controlled by her brother, who forces her to marry somebody she doesn't love and she loses her reason because of it.”

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

DeRenzi adds, “And Luisa Miller is at the mercy of the political system of the time. In the 1800s, you went from being a daughter to a wife, and the only way out of that was prostitution or going to a convent. But it was always about being controlled. For Lucia, it was not out of society’s norms for her brother to tell her who to marry. Or in the case of Luisa, that her father would be worried because the man she's in love with is actually from the aristocracy. You didn't do that. A peasant didn't marry into the aristocracy.” The stories that unfold musically in operas sometimes seem overly dramatic to modern audiences. But the heightened emotions make for good theater, DeRenzi says. “One also has to understand that there was a moral obligation of theater in the 1800s, especially in Italian opera, that it upheld the morality of a society. Cities had censors who censored operas and changed words. Depending on the city, it could be a political censorship: ‘We don't want the king to be killed on our stage.’ It

could be religious: ‘We don't want you to say, ‘Oh God,’ you have to say, ‘Oh heaven.’ But it could also be a moral issue. Does the story say something about the morality of community, of how audiences react? That was a very big part of the opera house. It was and still should be. I think it's not just entertainment. It’s art. We make people think and feel and hopefully react to these stories as members of our community.” When planning a season, in addition to considerations such as variety and production costs, casting the right performers is critical. Two of the sopranos in the title roles have appeared in previous Sarasota Opera productions, while one is new to the company. “Our Carmen, Chelsea Laggan, was with us last year,” DeRenzi explains. “She was understudying the role of Thérèse (the title role of Jules Massenet’s opera), and we have what we call a cover run of a show, which means the understudies perform the opera. She set us all back on our heels. So we thought this would be good, to get someone to play Carmen who we know is dramatically

“Opera is an interactive art form to a certain degree. Not in the sense that somebody is going to come downstage with a microphone and ask you to sing. But it is interactive in the sense that we need each other. —Maestro Victor DeRenzi

FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

and vocally interesting, and who has been part of this company. Moving people through our company is a very important part of what we do, and she certainly convinced all of us that she should advance with the company.” Russell says, “Ashley Milanese as Lucia is somebody new to us, and the role calls for a special kind of voice. So we auditioned her, and we liked her. Ashley has a promising career. She's been working in Europe a bit, and she has the kind of experience that lends itself to this role.” In Luisa Miller, Aviva Fortunata portrays Luisa, Rafael Dávila is Rodolfo, and Ricardo José Rivera plays Miller, Luisa’s father. All three principals were featured in Sarasota Opera’s production of Ernani last season. “Happily, the cast for Luisa Miller is very similar in requirements to the Ernani cast,” notes Russell. “That was an incredible production, the principals were available

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

and we were able to bring them back this season. That’s not always possible, especially with singers with the very dramatic voices this opera needs.” While audiences love popular, frequently produced operas like Carmen, DeRenzi and Russell say their patrons also like to stretch a bit and see less familiar works on the Sarasota Opera House stage, like Luisa Miller, which is not performed on the world’s opera stages as often as Verdi‘s other works. “People like the comfort of the familiar, so they go to see Carmen or to hear Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony,” says Russell. “But an opera like Luisa Miller, which people don't necessarily know, is a great opportunity to learn something new, to experience something they may not have heard before. Verdi wrote 33 operas, and we hear five of them on a regular basis, but there are a whole bunch of them that are really good and that deserve to be heard. I think Luisa Miller is one of the strongest of those lesser-heard pieces.”

HAYDN IN PLAIN SIGHT:

Rediscovering an Opera

•

Deceit Outwitted (L’infedeltà delusa), the final production in the Winter Opera Festival, is a light comedy composed by Joseph Haydn. Popular and prolific, he wrote more than 100 symphonies, as well as sonatas, concertos, string quartets and other works. But Haydn’s operas are much less familiar and are not often staged, compared to works by Puccini, Verdi and other composers who are known for operas. A Sarasota Opera premiere, Deceit Outwitted stands in stark contrast with the first three offerings in the Winter Festival, which all involve love stories and female title characters who (spoiler alert!) all meet tragic ends.

Russell would know; the Sarasota Opera is the only company in the world to have performed all of Verdi’s works in a nearly three-decade project called The Verdi Cycle, begun in 1989 and completed in 2016. At the other end of the spectrum from an opera like Luisa Miller, there have been thousands of productions of Carmen since its premiere in Paris in 1875. Russell says it’s “a great choice for someone to see as their first opera. It’s an extremely accessible piece, and it was my first opera, so I have a particular fondness for it. I feel like it's dramatic. It's got great music, and it flows well.” Even audiences who haven’t seen Carmen — and everyone who has — will recognize much of its music, including some of opera’s “greatest hits,” like “The Toreador Song” and “Habanera.” People have even been known

As Haydn’s story unfolds, the peasant Filippo hopes his daughter Sandrina will marry the rich farmer Nencio instead of the poor peasant she loves. Through a series of comic complications (including a parade of disguises), all is resolved, accompanied by the celebrated composer’s inventive score and the cast members’ brilliant singing. Deceit Outwitted features Hanna Brammer as Vespina, Yulan Piao as Sandrina, William Davenport as Nencio, and David Walton as Filippo. Why hasn’t the world heard more about Haydn’s operas? Sarasota Opera General Director Richard Russell Russell explains: “He wrote them for a court in Hungary, a castle where they had a little opera house and he had his own small company. But he didn’t think his operas would export as well as his instrumental music. So he never bothered promoting the operas, and they never got published. The scores sat in a small library until after World War II, when they were transferred to the National Library in Budapest. And then all of a sudden researchers discovered these operas.” Russell and Principal Conductor Victor DeRenzi considered staging other Haydn operas, but Deceit Outwitted fit best in the current season. “We knew we had the singers to be able to do it,” says Russell, “and it seemed like an opportunity to present an opera from a significant composer. There’s some really wonderful music in it, and it’s a chance for singers to try something new, and for our audience to hear something different.” FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

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says DeRenzi. “Not in the sense that somebody is License 299991326 going to come downstage with a microphone and ask you to sing. But it is interactive in the sense that we need each other. We're kind of useless without each other. We who are performing need an audience, and the audience needs performers. Otherwise, what's the point of doing it? We need each other.” Russell agrees. “I was talking to someone about how watching a movie on TV at home is one experience. But when you're in a theater and experiencing it with a bunch of people, I think that heightens the experience for you and you're sharing it with others and you’re more apt to start laughing out loud. And I think that's the case with opera, too. I can listen in my car to a recording and think, ‘Oh, that's good.’ But when I'm in a theater experiencing it live, I never know exactly what's going to happen. And I’m with other people who are also hopefully on the edge of their seat with excitement about it. I think that's a very special difference, and one we can all enjoy together.” For tickets, contact the Sarasota Opera Box Office, by phone at 941-328-1300, in person at 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, or online at SarasotaOpera.org.

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

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Wednesday, March 6, 2024 11:00 am to 1:00 pm Michael’s On East 1212 S East Ave, Sarasota

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Composing a Sarasota Orchestra Tunes Up for its Next 75 Years BY SCOTT FERGUSON On March 12, 1949, Florida West Coast Symphony Orchestra performed its first concert. The setting was the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium; the opening selection was Franz Schubert’s Symphony No. 8 in B minor — his “Unfinished Symphony.” In March 2024 and throughout the 2023-2024 season, the beloved cultural institution will celebrate its 75th anniversary. Known since 2008 as Sarasota Orchestra, it will continue its own unfinished symphony as its musical journey leads it toward a new Music Center, a new music director and new creative heights. “The 75th anniversary comes at a very interesting time for us,” says Sarasota Orchestra President and CEO Joseph McKenna. “I see it as a re-introduction of the Orchestra to the broader community and all the things we do. In addition to the anniversary of the Orchestra itself, the Sarasota Music Festival — our robust education program — will celebrate its 60th anniversary this coming June.” Founded in 1964 by Paul Wolfe, the Orchestra’s fourth and longest-serving music director, the Sarasota Music Festival brings together worldclass musicians and younger colleagues for an intensive three-week program of classes and performances. “I think what’s also quite remarkable is that we’re in the midst of a music director search,” says McKenna. “That in itself is exciting. But I also see the anniversary as a renaissance for the entire organization, especially in the ways we serve and provide for the community. Sarasota was a much different place in terms of population and daily life when the first concert was performed back in 1949, compared to what it is today.”

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

Future The search for a new music director follows the untimely death at age 69 of Bramwell Tovey, an internationally renowned conductor who was named Sarasota Orchestra’s sixth music director in 2021 and was about to begin his tenure in 2022. As a counterpoint to the sad news, that same year the Orchestra announced its plans to purchase 32 acres of pastureland along Fruitville Road, just west of I-75. McKenna uses another art form as a metaphor for what the site represents. “The land is a canvas for the Orchestra to paint its future,” he says. “I think it provides an extraordinary opportunity. Fast-forward 50 years. I think people will say, ‘Wow! The Sarasota Orchestra Music Center is at the center of this region; it’s the heartbeat of the community.’ I imagine in time there will be cultural organizations that spring up east of us, but I view the location as the gateway and the welcome mat into Sarasota.” Betsy Hudson Traba, who has served as the principal flutist for Sarasota Orchestra since 1993, agrees. “The proximity to I-75 is huge,” she says. “There’s so much potential on that enormous plot of land. The vision is for much more than a concert hall. It’s going to be a campus, and it’s going to have trails and water features. The design of the building and the backstage area — there’s a whole labyrinth of things that go on in concert halls that no one ever sees. And I’m sure the musicians will have input that will go into making our hall a wonderful place to play and hear great music.” Both Traba and McKenna stress the importance of community when they talk about the next home of Sarasota Orchestra. McKenna notes that “at the outset, the Orchestra board members said, ‘While we are leading the effort for a music center, we are doing it with a community intention. It’s not just about the Orchestra. How do we as leaders on the Orchestra board create a Music Center that is for the broader community and at the same time provides a home for the Orchestra?’

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“The people of this community built this Orchestra and they have supported it throughout its growth. And Sarasota has built a national and international reputation as an arts haven. We just need the space to grow.” —Betsy Hudson Traba “When Schermerhorn Symphony Center opened in Nashville in 2006, they hadn’t built a concert hall prior to that,” McKenna explains. “I don’t think they’ll build another concert hall there for another hundred years. That’s how special these buildings are. They represent civic pride and service to the community. I’ve always said that once the building is here, people will say, ‘How did we do without it for so long? Look what it’s brought.’ And I think that’s really exciting.” Traba is also enthusiastic about the plans. “Great concert halls like what we’re planning for Sarasota Orchestra are a marvel of engineering and acoustics. It will be a special place in a special environment. This community deserves that.” The Orchestra currently divides its season among six venues, most notably Holley Hall in the Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and the Sarasota Opera House. It has long sought a

home of its own — designed and dedicated to the performance of acoustic music. Proposed sites for the new facility included Payne Park in downtown Sarasota and The Bay Park. The City of Sarasota rejected the first idea based on feedback from citizens who objected to such a large structure in the park. The bayfront location would have restricted the height of the concert hall to 90 feet, among other issues. The next stop was Fruitville Road. After a series of feasibility studies of the site and the approval of an initial concept plan by Sarasota County in 2022, the Orchestra sought zoning variations — such as allowing for the concert hall to reach a 110-foot height for optimum acoustics. The variations were approved by the County in April 2023, and the Orchestra completed its $14 million purchase of the 32-acre site. Plans for the Music Center include a 1,800-seat concert hall built specifically to showcase acoustic music — one of only four in Florida and the first on Florida’s Gulf Coast — a 700-seat flexible-use performance space, rehearsal and practice rooms, music storage and office space. In addition to being the ideal home for Sarasota Orchestra, the Music Center will also serve many of the nearly 30

smaller music organizations that face challenges in scheduling performance and rehearsal dates due to the limitations of the region’s existing arts and cultural infrastructure. The Music Center will also provide expanded space and increased opportunities for the growth of Sarasota Orchestra’s youth education programs. In July 2023, the Orchestra announced the selection of New Jersey-based Stages Consultants, headed by acoustician Damian Dora and theater planner Alec Stoll, as partners in the creation of the facility. McKenna explains why hiring them was the next movement in composing the Music Center symphony. “A lot of the early work is being shaped by acoustics and theater design. The next step will be to go through the process this spring to identify an architect. The architect works with the acoustician and theater planner to give the building its personality, without compromising its acoustics and overall function.” Over the past few years, the Orchestra has learned from projects in other places. “We’ve been very disciplined. We’ve traveled to numerous other cities to visit organizations and their projects and FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

asked, ‘What went well?’ and ‘What would you have done differently?’

need our own place. And then there will literally be no stopping us.”

“We’ve seen facilities where architecture was sort of the leading piece, and the reviews were mixed about the acoustics. The venues that put acoustics first have had excellent outcomes.”

McKenna believes that the importance to the community of Sarasota Orchestra and other arts organizations cannot be overstated.

It’s possible that Sarasota Orchestra will celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2029 in its new Music Center. But no matter when it happens, when the next music director raises the baton for the first concert there, it will signal a new era for classical music lovers in Sarasota and beyond. “We have the potential to be one of the major American orchestras,” says Traba. “There’s that kind of support here. The people of this community built this Orchestra and they have supported it throughout its growth. And Sarasota has built a national and international reputation as an arts haven. We just need the space to grow. We

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“I think orchestras, youth orchestras and choirs are a phenomenal example of what the world needs more than ever,” he says. “Because if we continue to grow more tone deaf and less aware, then that’s not a world that any of us want to live in. I think the significance of Sarasota Orchestra on this 75th anniversary is that it is a beacon of hope for humanity. Our work and mission is more important today than it’s ever been in our entire history.” For more information and tickets to the Sarasota Orchestra’s 75th anniversary concerts and its plans for the new Music Center, visit SarasotaOrchestra.org.

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RETRIAL

ASOLO REP STAGES INHERIT THE WIND By Scott Ferguson • Photos by Sorcha Augustine

First staged in 1955, Jerome Lawrence and Robert E. Lee’s Inherit the Wind is a fictionalized version of one of the most infamous trials in American history. Popularly known as the Scopes Monkey Trial, the 1925 case pitted legendary defense attorney Clarence Darrow against William Jennings Bryan, a firebrand lawyer, former secretary of state under President Wilson and three-time losing presidential candidate. Darrow represented John Scopes, a Dayton, Tennessee high school educator accused of teaching Charles Darwin’s theory of human evolution — which was forbidden by state law because it “denied the story of the Divine Creation of man as taught in the Bible.”

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The play uses the actual trial as inspiration, but transforms Dayton into Hillsboro, Scopes into Bertram Cates, Darrow into Henry Drummond, and Bryan into Matthew Harrison Brady. Like Arthur Miller’s 1953 play The Crucible, set during the Salem witch trials of the 1690s, Inherit the Wind uses history to magnify the close-mindedness and fear-mongering of the 1950s — an era when screenwriters were blacklisted for their political beliefs and Wisconsin Senator Joseph McCarthy repeatedly alleged that communists had infiltrated the federal government, including the U.S. Army. Peter Rothstein, Asolo Rep’s new producing artistic director and the director of Inherit the Wind, says it’s one of his favorite plays. “What I love about it is that it speaks to the question, is censorship propelled by fear? I think fear is what keeps us small. I think asking you to expand your knowledge of the people whose lives and beliefs are different than yours doesn’t make your life any smaller or less important. And I think that’s at the heart of Inherit the Wind.” Now — a century after the Scopes trial — when certain 88

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books are being removed from or restricted in public schools in several states, the words of the play’s defense attorney sound contemporary. “Can’t you understand,” Drummond asks the jury, “that if you take a law like evolution and you make it a crime to teach it in the public schools, tomorrow you can make it a crime to teach it in the private schools? And tomorrow you may make it a crime to read about it. And soon you may ban books and newspapers.” The script calls for protestors outside the courthouse to carry banners with messages like “Amend the Constitution: Prohibit Darwin,” “My ancestors ain’t apes,” and “Don’t monkey with our schools.” Rothstein says that “while Inherit the Wind is certainly looking with a critical eye at censorship and what we’re allowed and not allowed to teach in American education systems, there’s a much more nuanced conversation in that play about the media’s role inside that political discourse.” One of the characters, E.L. Hornbeck, is a newspaperman from Baltimore (think acerbic atheist H.L. Mencken), sent

“I THINK THE PLAY OFFERS THE COMPROMISE THAT SCIENCE AND RELIGION BOTH HAVE A RIGHT TO EXIST. AND I THINK THAT’S A REALLY HEALTHY THING TO GET INTO THE DISCOURSE WHEN WE’RE SO FAR APART, TO FIND ANY WAY TO MOVE TOWARD A HEALTHY PLACE.” —ANDREW LONG

to cover the trial. His cynicism about religion contrasts with the fundamentalism represented by Reverend Jeremiah Brown. Mark Benninghoffen, who portrays Drummond in Asolo Rep’s production, says, “In modern times, Hornbeck he would be one of these 10 o’clock pundits who’s got it all figured out. He’s real snarky and super-polished. Newspapers were like the Fox News or CNN of the time. The paper came out four times a day, and radio was just starting. Hornbeck first says he’s a reporter, but later tells someone he’s no reporter, he’s a critic. And I think the point is that the media is shaping some of our thinking.” The play constantly offers different points of view. As with today’s social media, audiences can choose what viewpoint to follow — or they can dig deeper and weigh the evidence and arguments to develop their own thoughts. In the play, the judge tells Drummond that “the right to think is not on trial here.” Drummond responds, “With all respect to the bench, I hold that the right to think is very much on trial!” Indeed, playwright Lawrence has said, “We used the teaching of evolution as a parable…it’s not about science versus religion. It’s about the right to think.” FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

Andrew Long, who plays Brady, says, “I think the play offers the compromise that science and religion both have a right to exist. And I think that’s a really healthy thing to get into the discourse when we’re so far apart, to find any way to move toward a healthy place.” “Drummond has a line that’s essentially about being narrow-minded,” notes Benninghoffen. “He says it to Brady, who he discovers has not read On the Origin of Species. He asks how Brady can be so sure that the body of science systematized by Darwin is in any way irreconcilable with the spirit of the Book of Genesis? I think what he means by that is science may have systematized a lot of factual, evidentiary stuff, but somewhere in the middle of that is a bunch of chemicals and water turning into life. And that’s a miracle. You can call that whatever you want, but they might coexist rather nicely.”

man wasn’t just stuck here like a geranium in a flower pot; that living comes from a long miracle; it didn’t just happen in seven days.” In the seven decades since its Broadway premiere, there have been thousands of productions of Inherit the Wind. Many audience members will have seen a stage production — perhaps Asolo Rep’s own 2002 version, or the 1960 movie starring Spencer Tracy as Drummond and Frederick March as Brady. But Long and Benninghoffen say audiences will delight in the differences in Asolo Rep’s new staging. I think it’s a very fresh look at the play,” says Long. “Peter has cast Black actors as Reverend Brown, his family, and a lot of members of his congregation. Putting that aspect into the production and being as realistic as possible really makes you look at the play in a new way.”

In the play, defendant Cates explains to Rachel Brown, daughter of Reverend Brown, why he taught his class about the theory of evolution.

To reinforce the setting and ease the transition between scenes, the production uses gospel music and other traditional Southern genres.

“I had the book in my hand, Hunter’s Civic Biology. I opened it up, and read my sophomore science class Chapter 17, Darwin’s Origin of Species. All it says is that

“Part of it is because of the spiritual element,” says Long. “In and around the reverend’s congregation there are hymns, and they often establish the mood of the

SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

scene. Almost all the transitions use music, so if people are moving furniture, they’re also singing and establishing where we are.” Asolo Rep’s 2023-2024 season program describes the director’s approach to the play: “Rothstein, long celebrated for his heightened theatricality, plans a vibrant, bold, musicfilled production that is as relevant as it was when the play was first written.” Long describes the play as “really fair. It offers a compromise in a way when there are really two kind of drastically different arguments being made. And it constantly reminds us how we haven’t changed at all.” Benninghoffen adds, “I think no matter which side you’re on, you’re going to see your side. You’re going to hear the arguments in favor of your narrative. Some people will walk out and say, ‘I told you I was right.’ And the guy in the balcony will be saying to his wife, ‘I told you, honey, we were absolutely right.’ And I think that’s really speaks to the power of the play.” For more information and tickets to Inherit the Wind and other productions in Asolo Rep’s current season, visit AsoloRep.org or call the box office at 941-351-8000. FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

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an unprecedented dialogue

by K a i l e i a S u va n n a m acc h a

Before she was crowned “princess of polka dots,” Yayoi Kusama, then a budding artist, aspired to sow seeds of success akin to the American artists she had only ever read about in textbooks. Among the artists she studied, one woman captured her fascination— Georgia O’Keeffe, the matriarch of American Modernism—so much so that she decided to write to her. Yayoi’s letter, seeking guidance, echoed like a call for help in a world where males seized the spotlight, and females were supposed to be content with dancing in their shadows. It is unknown what compelled O’Keeffe, one of the most influential female artists of her time, to 94

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respond to the young Japanese woman. What is known from their written correspondence, is that O’Keeffe presented Kusama with more than mere advice; she invited the aspiring artist to uproot herself from post-war Japan and transplant into the pulsating heart of New York City for a chance to live the American dream. This pen-pal-turned-mentor relationship laid the foundation for Selby Gardens’ upcoming exhibition, Yayoi Kusama: A Letter to Georgia O’Keeffe. Set to feature as part of the Jean and Alfred Goldstein Exhibition series, on display from February 11 through June 30, the exhibition aims to encapsulate the profound connection forged between these artists, seemingly worlds apart, in an unprecedented dialogue. Drawing inspiration from a series of transcontinental letters exchanged by these women during the 1950s, the exhibition delves into the unexpected sisterhood that blossomed between Kusama and O’Keeffe, crossing not only cultures, but artistic distinctions as well.

Yayo i K u s a m a : A L e t t e r to Georgia O’ K e e f f e

Jennifer Rominiecki, President and CEO of Selby Gardens describes the show as “a dynamic and exciting interpretation of two iconic female artists that have never been placed together in an exhibition before.” “The idea for the exhibition emerged when letters between Kusama and O’Keeffe came up for auction,” says Rominiecki. “We saw the media coverage of that auction and felt inspired. We had been exploring featuring both artists singularly, but the idea of putting them together was too exciting to pass up.”

Although, at first glance, Kusama and O’Keeffe’s works may seem stylistically different, the exhibition is committed to highlighting the mutual influence they had on each other and their art. It not only showcases their differences but also celebrates the unspoken synergy that existed between them.

The Selby Gardens team is crafting a series of immersive vignettes that tell a timeless story of inspiration and admiration between artists. Rominiecki provides additional insights into the vignettes, stating, “Our exhibits are known for how our team translates our featured artists into the gardens themselves, in the conservatory, and throughout the grounds. We are now translating the works of Yayoi Kusama and Georgia O’Keeffe into the language of plants. We want our visitors to be totally immersed in a oneof-a-kind experience.”

Rominiecki explains, “It’s a very inspirational relationship. Here are two women that changed the history of art, and I think it’s exciting to have them paired together in our unique botanical garden setting. O’Keeffe’s work is more representational with recognizable images like flowers, FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

The immersive nature of the exhibition plans to transcend the limitations of a traditional museum setting, allowing visitors to truly become a part of a larger conversation by immersing them in an artDr. Reichbach and his staff have committed to the mission of

filled storyscape.

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while Kusama takes her abstractions further. Yet, both artists, despite their seemingly different styles, find a harmonious fit in the botanical garden setting.” Selby Gardens visitors can expect from Yayoi Kusama: A Letter to Georgia O’Keeffe a multi-dimensional experience that encompasses artworks from both artists, reproductions of their original letters to each other, photographs, and plenty of other supplemental and interpretative materials, offering an intimate glimpse into the artists’ unique relationship that was based on mutual respect. “Basically, there was this sort of pen-pal-ship, with the letters going back and forth. They did have a historic meeting in the 1950s, in New York, and we can only speculate what that meeting was like,” says Rominiecki.

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face in a male-dominated industry. One can only ponder what the modern art world would be like if Kusama had never written to O’Keeffe, or had O’Keeffe never responded to Kusama. The influence she had on big name male artists like Andy Warhol, Claes Oldenburg, and Lucas Samaras is undeniable, though it took many years for her to receive the credit she rightfully deserved. O’Keeffe also stands as a pioneering figure in American art history, being one of the first American female artists to have her works recognized and respected during her lifetime. Departing from conventional representational art, O’Keeffe carved her niche through abstract and symbolic works; most famously, her lyrical representations of natural forms in the American Southwest. Because of the encouragement the ambitious Kusama received from the seasoned O’Keeffe, she was prepared to overcome struggles and persevere in the male-led art scene of 1960s New York. Her innovative use of repetitive patterns played a crucial role in the development of the Pop Art and Minimalist movements, inspiring a new wave of contemporary artists that would explore similar conceptual realms. The

Because of the encouragement the ambitious Kusama received from the seasoned O’Keeffe, she was prepared to overcome struggles and persevere in the male-led art scene of 1960s New York.

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international acclaim she eventually received for her work and vision as a professional female artist challenged preconceived notions and stereotypes about the role women occupied in the art world at large. The celebration of Kusama and O’Keeffe’s contributions to art and nature aligns with the 50thanniversary season of Selby Gardens, making it a fitting crescendo to a year of special programming.

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Rominiecki expresses her personal excitement. “I’m thrilled to highlight these two artists in a way that they haven’t been before. This entire show is a tribute to them and their incredible work.” Yayoi Kusama: A Letter to Georgia O’Keeffe promises to lead visitors

on an extraordinary journey through the intertwined narratives of two remarkable female visionary artists. Much like the continual cycle of nature, Kusama and O’Keeffe’s artworks speak a language that resonates with and inspires new life. The exhibition endeavors to not only spotlight each artist’s individual brilliance, but also, to illuminate the harmonious interplay between their creations, deeply rooted in nature. “There’s something here for everyone,” Rominiecki says, encouraging nature enthusiasts and art lovers alike to view the exhibition. “It’s really for anyone who wants to expand their mind and learn.” Attendees of the Yayoi Kusama: A Letter to Georgia O’Keeffe exhibition can anticipate in a thought-provoking and visually stunning one-of-a-kind experience that celebrates the enduring impact nature has on the world of art. As envisioned by its curators, this exhibition has been designed as a gateway to understanding exactly how nature inspired these artists and, in turn, how nature can inspire us all. To learn more about the Yayoi Kusama: A Letter to Georgia O’Keeffe exhibition and to plan your visit, go to www.selby.org.

FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

• insider •

educationmatters Pioneering Youth Development: Roscelyn Guenther and Boys & Girls Club of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties By Joshua Thomas Bray Creating opportunities for growth and learning, the dedication to shaping young lives is a vital mission in any community. Founded in 1970, Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties (BGCSDC) has been steadfast in its commitment to empowering and supporting youth in need. The organization focuses on children and teenagers (ages 6-18) offering them a safe space for growth and learning outside of school hours. With a vision that success is within the reach of every young person who enters its doors, the Clubs have been a significant force in the community for over five decades. In the decades since its inception, BGCSDC has evolved, mirroring the changing dynamics of youth education and development. This evolution has been significantly influenced by the insights and expertise of Roscelyn Guenther, who joined BGCSDC in 2000. 10 0

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Bringing a unique blend of personal experience and professional acumen to the role of Director of Program Services, Guenther has been a tangible force in tailoring the Club’s initiatives to the ever-changing needs of its young members. Her approach, deeply rooted in understanding and responding to the diverse challenges faced by the youth of today, has led to the creation of programs that are as varied as they are impactful. From academic enrichment to leadership training, the breadth of these programs under the organization’s mission reflects a deep commitment to holistic development and the belief that every young person holds the potential to thrive. “For me it was personal. I came from a single-parent home and it was very important to have strong adult relationships for encouragement and support. I realized I needed to be that person for others,” says Guenther.

“ I t ’ s n o t o n e s p e c i f i c n i c h e t h at c h a n g e s t h e i r l i f e . I t ’ s r e l at i o n s h i p s w i t h t h e a d u lt s t h e y h av e a r o u n d t h e m a n d t h e co m b i n at i o n o f t h e d i f f e r e n t p r o g r a m s w i t h ac a d e m i c s , g oo d c h a r ac t e r a n d c i t i z e n s h i p a n d h e a lt h y l i f e s t y l e s t h at w r a p a r o u n d t o g i v e t h e m w h at t h e y n e e d t o b e s u cc e s s f u l . ” A ke y c o m p o n e n t o f B G C S D C ’s s u c c e s s i s i t s comprehensive educational programs. These programs are designed to cater to the diverse needs of its members, ranging from academic support to leadership development. A standout initiative is the 21st Century Community Learning Centers, which provide academic, artistic, and cultural enrichment outside of regular school hours. These centers not only focus on intellectual growth by offering activities in areas such as drug and violence prevention, counseling, art, music, and technology, but they also promote physical well-being by providing healthy snacks in an environment conducive to learning. Importantly, the program extends its reach to the families of participating students, addressing literacy needs and ensuring that students, especially those from lowperforming schools, meet state academic standards in core subjects like reading and mathematics. According to Guenther, “It’s not one specific niche that changes their life. It’s relationships with the adults they have around them and the combination of the different programs with academics, good character and citizenship and healthy lifestyles that wrap around to give them what they need to be successful.” The 2023-2024 school-year program includes a comprehensive array of teen programs for youth aged 13-18. These award-winning programs encompass crucial areas such as entrepreneurial training, leadership development, financial literacy, civic engagement,

planning for college, and workforce development. Additionally, programs focusing on leadership development, advocacy and action, entrepreneurial education, and vocational training are offered, ensuring that every teen graduates from high school with a full resume and a well-defined plan for the future. With locations across Sarasota and DeSoto Counties, the Clubs are staffed by dedicated youth development professionals who are committed to guiding teens on their journey to success. Under the leadership of a strong management team, the Clubs have flourished, consistently offering highquality programs that positively impact the lives of young people. As she enters her 24th year of service to the organization, Guenther’s role involves overseeing program execution, leading community collaborations, and special projects. Her involvement has been significant in enhancing the scope and impact of the programs. BGCSDC places a strong emphasis on community involvement and partnerships. These collaborations are vital in enhancing the Club’s offerings and extending its impact. Through community support and partnerships, the Clubs have been able to expand its reach and offer a wider range of programs and services. In 2022, Guenther’s commitment to leadership was recognized as she was selected for the Leadership Sarasota Class by the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce. This accolade reflects her effectiveness and dedication to driving positive change within the community and at the Boys & Girls Clubs.

FEBRUARY 2024 | SARASOTA SCENE

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“I get the opportunity to oversee the educational impact we make with all of the tools and resources provided through academic grants. All those components are compiled in a logical set of processes that can go out to the Clubs where they execute those activities and lessons, and meet the needs of our families and our youth. We compile the data and report trends and successes. It’s always a win! The biggest gift for me is to have done this long enough to see our former Club members grow into adults and lead successful lives,” shares Guenther. As BGCSDC looks ahead, the organization is committed to evolving with the changing needs of today’s youth, ensuring that each member is empowered to reach their full potential. With a focus on preparing members for various aspects of life, the Clubs remain active in the community, ready to provide and continue supporting the leaders of tomorrow.

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Guenther’s efforts at BGCSDC exemplify the organization’s commitment to our youth, and with its dedicated leadership team, the Clubs continue to make a significant impact on the lives of children and teenagers in Sarasota and DeSoto Counties. Its role in youth development remains as vital as ever, helping shape young minds of today for a prosperous and thriving tomorrow. The Clubs are a place where potential is nurtured, challenges are transformed into opportunities, and dreams are given the wings of reality.

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

about Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota and DeSoto Counties, please visit www.bgcsdc.org.

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SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

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SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

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SARASOTA SCENE | FEBRUARY 2024

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sarasota concert association 941.225.6500 / scasarasota.org Detroit Symphony Orchestra with Cellist Alisa Weilerstein February 19

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T O S U B M IT YO U R E V E NT / E X HIB IT IO N F O R CO NS IDE R AT IO N, please send information to editor@scenesarasota.com

meet the artist

Meg Krakowiak

“Radiant Disco Ball.” Photo by Trey Jones.

• a r t s + c u lt ur e •

Meg Krakowiak is a contemporary award-winning artist best known for her intriguing color palette creating paintings that “Bring Happiness into Your Home.” Born into an artistic family, Meg was continuously exposed to music, theatre and fine arts. While earning a BS in teaching and an MBA in marketing Meg enrolled in every elective art class she could. Eventually Meg left the corporate world to pursue her dream to become a professional artist. She began to teach, contributed to the development of the Art Smarts program in the public school system and created an art program for cancer survivors at a local hospital. Meg found that while helping her students’ find their own voices, she was becoming a better artist- more purposeful and focused on her intention. In 2010 Meg launched her business model to combine both her working studio and retail gallery into one space. This created the opportunity to paint while also meeting clients. Her current studio/gallery is located on historical Palm Avenue in downtown Sarasota where passerby’s can watch her paint in the front window, Listening to her favorite tunes, Meg works quickly utilizing water-based materials and various tools. Focusing on a memory and a feeling, she recreates that experience exaggerating the colors and composition to trigger a memory and make a connection with the viewer. Her paintings help teach you how to see and appreciate the colors that surround us. Meg is fortunate to call Sarasota her home and thankful to be a part of this vibrant artistic community. Visit her website to learn more about Meg and to view her work, please visit megkrakowiakstudios.com

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