January 2016

Health Wellness

&

The Foundation Behind our Good Health A Journey Through

Cancer Care Harnessing Our Healing & Regenerative Powers

Doctors of Distinction

Sarasota Opera Winter Season PRESERVING OUR FUTURE

Pauline Wamsler Joerger JANUARY 2016 $3.95 U.S.

Scene Together: Engagements & Weddings

Models Open Daily

JOHN CANNON HOMES - Avianna

LEE WETHERINGTON HOMES - Verona

Homesites Starting at $299k Packages Starting at $1m No CDD Fees NEAL SIGNATURE HOMES - Dominica II

ARTHUR RUTENBERG HOMES - Modena

TheConcessionRealEstate.com

ANCHOR BUILDERS - Parkstone

The Concession Real Estate Company, Inc. / 8305 Lindrick Lane / Bradenton, FL 34202 For a private tour or more information, call our Sales Office: (941) 388-0501 Monday - Saturday, 10am-5pm / Sunday, Noon-5pm

Art of Ireland

As Good As It Gets

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

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

Art to Walk On

Dabbert Gallery

Fine Oriental Carpets arttowalkon.com 941-951-5454

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

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

DeMarcay at 33 South Palm

Palm Avenue Fine Art

Historic Moderne Residences demarcay33southpalm.com 877-774-3782

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

Galleria Silecchia

Lubé of Sarasota Cabinetry

International Fine Art galleriasilecchia.com 941-365-7414

Fine Crafted Cabinetry lubeofsarasota.com 941-954-0200

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

AN EXCEPTIONAL, LUXURIOUS NOT-FOR-PROFIT CARE FACILITY

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• Accepts Medicare, Insurance and Private Pay Patients

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

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

• Interdisciplinary Team of Experienced Professionals

• Personal Physicians

• State-of-the-Art Therapy Equipment

• 24/7 RN, LPN and CNA Staffing

• Evidence-based care & Individualized Treatment

• Licensed Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapists

• Physical, Occupational & Speech Rehabilitative Therapies

• Registered Dietician and Nutritional Management

• Case Management to Maximize Benefits

• Social Services

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

• Full-Time Activities Director

License # SNF130471051

EOE

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

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Full-Service Retirement Living On Sarasota Bay ~ Discover The Difference For Yourself!

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

www.SarasotaBayClub.com

The Best Neurological Care More Specialized Sarasota Memorial’s is the region’s only Neurosciences Center of Excellence, a leading treatment, research and resource center for those with complex neurological conditions. We’re also the region’s only Comprehensive Stroke Center, meaning we can provide immediate advanced treatment and specialty care beyond what other hospitals can. It’s the best neurological care for patients and more specialized than ever before.

Look Inside: www.smh.com/neuro

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

Michael Kane Trunk Show January 28-30

Fiber artist Michael Kane uses the ancient hand dying technique of Shibori on silk fabric to create one-of-a-kind clothing that is often pieced, layered or appliqued.

Ivan Grundahl Trunk Show January 14-16

Unique and avant-garde, the fashions of Ivan Grundahl feature sculptural shapes with asymmetrical tailoring.

Health & Wellness January 2016

Volume 59 No. 1

61

104

61 COMPLETING VERDI THE “CYLE-LOGICAL” WAY

By Steven J. Smith

70 THE FOUNDATION BEHIND OUR GOOD HEALTH The Impact of Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation

By Sue Cullen

78 HARNESSING OUR HEALING & REGENERATIVE POWERS Drs. Joseph and Jonathan Greco Discuss New Therapies and Medical Advancements

By Sue Cullen

82 A JOURNEY THROUGH CANCER CARE: A DOCTOR’S PERSPECTIVE Dr. Steve Mamus, Medical Director of Cancer Center of Sarasota-Manatee

By Sue Cullen

87 DOCTORS OF DISTINCTION Profiles of local doctors and dentists

104 UNITING FOR GOOD

By Julie Milton

cover Photographer: John Revisky | Model: Heather Jaco

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January 2016

For more information and a listing of available lots, floor plans, and services we offer, please visit us at nuttercustomconstruction.com.

941.924.1868 201 Fletcher Avenue Sarasota, FL 34237 Concierge Custom Building

Remodeling

Project Management

LEED Accredited Professional Florida Licensed Building Contractor CBC 060004 Florida Licensed Real Estate Broker BK3222256 Florida Licensed Home Inspector HI4630

DEPARTMENTS

54

51

SOCIALS 24 Saint Stephen’s Fire & Ice Gala 28 Pines Foundation Wit & Wisdom of Aging Luncheon 29 AJC Civic Achievement Award Dinner 38 LWR Rotary Club Uncorked Dinner 46 Planned Parenthood’s High Tide at High Noon Luncheon 52 Sarasota Orchestra Season Opener Brunch

30 EVENTS CALENDAR 41 PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR 51 DESIGN Eclectic Style

107 SCENES FROM AN INTERVIEW Pauline Wamsler Joerger

By Gus Mollasis

113 SCENE TOGETHER Engagements and Weddings

118 EDUCATION The One Ocean Curriculum at Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

121 THE BUZZ AROUND TOWN With Sarasota’s Busiest Bee Suzette Jones

By Jacqueline Miller

54 GET INSPIRED Cultural Happenings from the Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

127 LITERARY SCENE

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

130 REWIND A Look Back Through SCENE’s Archives

GIVING 66 A Cultural Appeal: Jean Weidner Goldstein

By Steven J. Smith

68 Dedicated to Helping Caring Hearts The Bertha K. Gibbons/Lucia Freeman Memorial Scholarship Fund at State College of Florida

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

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January 2016

Preparing for the future? Let’s have that conversation.

Planning your family’s future is too important to treat lightly. That’s why you should evaluate a Financial Advisor based on what they can do for their clients. The guidance they provide, the insight they’re equipped with, the level of service and excellence they offer. Contact The Bellwether Group at Morgan Stanley and find out how we can help you prepare for the years ahead.

The Bellwether Group at Morgan Stanley Two North Tamiami Trail, Suite 1100 Sarasota, FL 34236 941-363-8514 rochelle.nigri@morganstanley.com www.morganstanleyfa.com/ bellwethergroup Left to right: Kathy Francoletti CTFA,® Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor; Richard T. Williams III CFA,® Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor; Scott L. Rockwell, Vice President, Financial Advisor; Aimee Cogan CFP® CIMA®, Managing Director-Wealth Management, Family Wealth Director, Wealth Advisor Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP,® CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the US. Investment Management Consultants Association, Inc. owns the marks CIMA,® Certified Investment Management AnalystSM (with graph element),® and Certified Investment Management Analyst.SM © 2015 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 1176138 04/15 WMC001

HarborChase Health & Wellness

At HarborChase communities, we are dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain an optimal level of good health. In addition to providing a variety of healthy and nutritious menu items through our dining services, we offer a wide range of classes designed to improve and maintain your health and wellness. By emphasizing personal choice and optimism, we believe that everyone can find ways to enhance their health.

We understand that your interests are diverse and we strive to offer something for everyone to stay in better health.

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Call Today for Details: (941) 468-2838 Assisted Living Facility #12753

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FROM THE EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Natural forces within us are the true healers of disease. ~Hippocrates

T

H

mmm…Hippocrates

he A l l New

was

one

smart fellow. No wonder this ancient Greek physician who lived

from 460 BC to 375 BC, is regarded as the “father of medicine.” In his day, prescribed medicines included food, local salves made from nature’s finest substances, and carefully

crafted natural cleanses to rid the body of noxious substances thought to cause disease. It seems to me as if Hippocrates should be regarded instead as the “father of

The Hidden Gem of the Riviera Dunes Marina 102 Riviera Dunes Way Palmetto, FL 34221 941-479-7827 blumangrove.com

prevention medicine.”

In an information world where news on everything and anything reaches us at warped speed, certainly we’ve all heard that prevention is key to our better health. Food choices, exercise, natural herbs and botanicals that are in many cases as good or better than any pharmaceutical, happiness and positive outlooks – these are important keys for optimum health.

I am one who believes that God gave us everything in nature to keep our bodies in tip-top shape. But for me and for many of us, we need to be better educated on

Available for:

prevention. Instead we are inundated with commercials about fast food and other

Lunch Dinner Happy Hour Special Events

not-so-healthy products. Most health care practitioners don’t practice prevention.

Featuring:

change anytime soon. The good news is there are more and more health professionals

Exotic Seafoods Raw Bar Sushi Hand Selected Steaks Dockside Boat Parking Live Music Nightly

Prescribing a pill is so much easier. And we can’t fault them for this – it is what they were taught and how they make their living.

So learning about prevention and being responsible for our own better health is totally up to us. There’s too much money being made in healthcare for protocol to starting practices that focus on prevention and information available to us that we should take the time to sift through. As with most things in life, education is key.

For the younger and healthier among us, perhaps prevention-focused practices are where they should begin their healthcare. The earlier we start eating right, exercising, using natural herbs and remedies, the better our health should be. Wouldn’t it be nice if healthcare insurance companies reward people who stay in good health each year by reimbursing a portion of our outrageous healthcare costs? Keep dreaming!

For 2016, as I eat more kale, stay off sugar and processed foods, and get on that dusty elliptical that sits next to my bed, my new year mantra is going to be a quote not from good old Hippocrates, but instead from Albert Einstein – “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow…” Yes, indeed. Hope.

julie@scenesarasota.com

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January 2016

SAMURAI: THE WAY OF THE WARRIOR EXHIBITION OPENS JAN 15 Drawing from the rich and varied Japanese collection of the Museo Stibbert in Florence, Italy, this evocative exhibition features over 80 exquisite objects related to the legendary samurai warriors—full suits of armor, helmets, swords, sword-hilts, and saddles.

WHAT’S ON

DISCOVER

Sponsored by: This exhibition is organized by Contemporanea Progetti, Florence, Italy in collaboration with the Museo Stibbert. Support for this exhibition was provided in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax revenues; the Amicus Foundation Endowment; the Ting Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Foundation Endowment; The Japan Foundation, New York; and The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art Foundation.

VIEWPOINT LECTURE: THE WAY OF THE SHOGUN JAN 16, 10:30 AM, $10 / $5 for Members This talk explores the culture of the shogun, samurai, and emperor, as well as the major art forms developed during this period.

CONVERSATION WITH CHARLOTTE PERRET JAN 29, 10:30 AM, $5 / Free for Members Writer, educator, and arts patron Charlotte Perret shares the fascinating stories behind the creation of her book, At Their Doorstep—a historic and pictorial account of the itinerant street fairs in early 20th-century Paris.

RINGLING BY THE BAY JAN 18, 5:00 – 8:00 PM, $10 / Free for Members Enjoy live music and dancing on the Bolger Campiello.

Above: Pair of screens / Byobu (detail), Tosa School. Painted fabric, colored inks, gold-leaf; wood frame. End of the 17th century – beginning of the 18th century, 67 5/16 × 75 9/16 × 13/16 in. Museo Stibbert, Florence, Inv. no. 7594.

DISCOVER MORE

ringling.org

941.358.3180 OPEN DAILY at 10 AM

362 DAYS A YEAR!

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

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

Some day,

she’ll be freedom.

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

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

Some day, with your help, starts today.

Your Hometown Heroes

“I lost 180 pounds and the need for 16 pills a day.”

— Bill R., Cape Coral, Weight Loss Surgery When William’s diabetes got so bad he was about to need daily shots along with the pills he was already taking, he said enough is enough. He decided to have bariatric surgery and chose Venice Regional Bayfront Health because of its excellent reputation. “The doctors and nurses are by your side all the way,” he explained. “I lost 180 pounds, and the only pill I take now is a vitamin. I feel like a new man, like I’m back in my 40s.”

Venice Regional Bayfront Health is the only Center of Excellence in Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery that is dually accredited by the American College of Surgeons and the Surgical Review Corporation in Sarasota, Charlotte and Manatee counties. For more information or a free consultation, call 855-876-2362 or visit VeniceRegional.com/WeightLoss.

Patient results may vary. Consult your physician about the benefits and risks of any surgical procedure or treatment.

The number of people we help support each year is equal to almost

A THIRD OF SARASOTA COUNTY’S POPULATION.

COULD ONE OF THEM BE SOMEONE YOU CARE ABOUT?

CAMPUS OF CARING The Glasser Schoenbaum Human Services Center is an internationally recognized concept in philanthropy and in nonprofit administration that supports organizations who deliver services to those in need in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. Celebrating our 25th anniversary, we currently provide homes to 19 nonprofit health and human service agencies on our campus at a deeply discounted occupancy rate, so they can focus on what’s important. Our reach is extraordinarily wide and our impact is profound.

Just as your next donation can be.

Locally Owned, Operated & Printed Since 1957 CEO/President

Ronald Milton

Publisher & Executive Editor

Julie A. Milton

Vice President Sales

Art Director

Michelle Cross

Distribution

Dick Jackson

Contributing Writers

Gus Mollasis Steven J. Smith Ryan G. Van Cleave

Photographers

Address

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January 2016

5939 Approach Road, Sarasota, FL 34238

Website

22

Nancy Guth John Revisky

Fax

Visit us on Facebook or at gs-humanservices.org to make a donation, view our event calendar and learn more.

Sue Cullen Suzette Jones

Phone

1750 17th Street, Sarasota FL 34234 941.365.4545

Steve Slocum

941-365-1119

941-954-5067

scenesarasota.com

SCENE Magazine publishes 12 issues a year by RJM Ventures, LLC. Address editorial, advertising and circulation correspondence to the above address. Sufficient return postage and self-addressed, stamped envelope must accompany all manuscripts, art work and photographs submitted if they are to be returned or acknowledged. Publisher assumes no responsibility for care of return of unsolicited materials. Subscription price: $12.95 per year, $19.95 for two years. All contents copyrighted. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. ISSN 1535-8895.

Social Saint Stephens’s Fire & Ice Gala Saint Stephen’s annual gala, sponsored this year by Northern Trust, was chaired by Haily Cavalluzzi and was held at Polo Grill’s Fete Ballroom. Themed “Fire & Ice”, it was so hot, it was cool! Guests were greeted by fire dancers as they mingled at a spectacular ice bar sponsored by Duncan Seawall. Fire & Ice buffet stations, complete with hand blended ice cream and a toast it yourself s’mores bar, kept guests coming back for more. Gala proceeds support the scholarships, events, activities and programs sponsored by the Saint Stephen’s Parents’ Association.

Photos by Nancy Guth

Dr. Melinda Lacerna & Dr. Brian Kimbrell

Mitch Helton, Katherine Waters, Lynn & Chris Romine, Marla & Ryan Walker, Jan & Jim Pullen

Doug & Veronica Van Dyke

Scott & Telese McKay

Kelley Engel & Jen Conner

ONE LIFESTYLE. ONE CHOICE. ONE PALM.

RESERVE YOUR HOME TODAY AT WWW.ONEPALMSARASOTA.COM | 941-234-4063 24

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January 2016

Available Exclusively At

Custom Draperies

Plantation Shutters

•

Window Coverings

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New Showroom Coming Soon to The Square at UTC

941.342.0900

STUNNING LAKEWOOD RANCH COUNTRY CLUB ESTATE This exquisite 5,728 sq. ft. custom residence built by Peregrine is located in the beautiful Highfield neighborhood behind the gates of Lakewood Ranch Country Club. Prepare to be awestruck upon entering the stately Cantera iron double doors by the soaring 27' ceilings, dramatic circular wood and iron staircase, expansive windows and incredible architectural detailing.

Every feature of this stunning estate is extra special from the professional chef’s kitchen, to the temperature controlled wine cellar, to the private outdoor living with a fabulous outdoor kitchen, fireplace, and stunning salt water pool and spa, to the sybaritic inspired master suite, offering a distinguished lifestyle for those with impeccable taste.

The Country Club at Lakewood Ranch is a private membership club offering 54 holes of golf, an 18 court tennis center, and a fully equipped athletic center. The community features beautiful streetscapes, shimmering lakes, and nature preserves. Just minutes away from Lakewood Ranch Main Street and the new University Town Center Mall both with fabulous shopping and dining.

Offered at $2,550,000

Linda Apple | 941.586.0553

Social Wit and Wisdom of Aging Luncheon A crowd of 320 gathered to hear celebrity panelists Flori Roberts, Gerri Aaron and Dickie Smothers share funny and insightful observations on life at a “certain� age at the 6th Annual Wit & Wisdom of Aging Luncheon benefiting Pines of Sarasota. Ray Collins of ABC7 served as moderator. Co-chairs Jane Hunder and Marilyn Shuman led the event along with honorary co-chair Betty Schoenbaum who was hugged literally and verbally by a group of her dear friends. More than $160,000 was raised to support the services and programs at Pines of Sarasota, a not-for-profit rehabilitation and senior care community.

Hillary Steele & Renee Hamad

Available for immediate delivery.

Photos by John Revisky

Jane Hunder, Estelle Crawford & Marilyn Shuman Bonnie Williams & Eddie Morton

Gerri Aaron, Dickie Smothers & Flori Roberts

Jennifer Steube & Jennifer Rust

PAMARO SHOP F U R N I T U R E

Complimentary in-home design consultations.

For The New Look Of Florida

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

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Pamaro East

5465 University Parkway | 941.359.0025

thepamaroshop.com 28

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January 2016

Pamaro South

4586 S. Tamiami Trail | 941.923.3299

Social AJC Civic Achievement Award Dinner American Jewish Committee honored Veronica Brady, Senior Vice President for Philanthropy at Gulf Coast Community Foundation, with its 2015 Civic Achievement Award at a sold-out gala dinner at Michael’s On East.

Ms. Brady, an AJC Board member, was recognized for her professional and personal accomplishments and her involvement and commitment to AJC. Over 435 guests were in attendance making this AJC’s largest Award Dinner. Dinner Chairs were Gerri Aaron, Barbara Brizdle, and Matt and Lisa Walsh.

Photos by John Revisky

‘

Stan & Jo Rutstein

Jay & Veronica Brady

Chris & Aimee Cogan

Im 1

Brian Lipton & Anne Virag

Stacy & Ben Hanan

#

at Doctors Hospital

I teach tennis and in May, I had total hip replacement. The staff at Doctors Hospital felt I was there for something that would enhance my life and I was very pleased with the services. My tennis game has really improved and I feel I’m able to move faster. I consider myself a lucky guy. Read more about my experience at DoctorsOfSarasota.com/Moros.”

—Julio Moros, Sarasota FL Tennis Pro Total Hip Replacement

5731 Bee Ridge Road at Cattlemen Rd, Sarasota | DoctorsOfSarasota.com | 1.888.685.1596 January 2016

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January Calendar

For a complete listing of community events please visit scenesarasota.com Photo by John Revisky

18th Annual Thunder by the Bay Motorcycle Festival January 7 – 10 Various times and locations. Enjoy live music, vendors, wine, beer, and whiskey tastings, silent auction, festival, and bike show. Benefits Suncoast Charities for Children.

941.371.8820 x1800 | thunderbythebay.org

Sarasota Jewish Food Festival January 10 Temple Sinai 9:00 am. Health fair displays, arts and crafts, used book sale, traditional comfort foods, and more. Free admission | 941.924.1802 | jewishfoodsrq.com

Scramble for SPARCC January 11 TPC Prestancia 11:30 am. Benefits Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center. Tickets: $160 | 941.365.0208 | sparcc.net

Designing Daughters Dining For A Difference January 12. Dine out for a great cause with locally owned Sarasota/Manatee restaurants. A portion of all proceeds will help fund grants to local charities. For list of participating restaurants go to: DesigningDaughtersSarasota.com | 941.504.4288

Friends of the Selby Public Library’s “Looking Into The Crystal Ball” January 13 Selby Public Library 6:00 pm. Annual fundraiser which includes over two dozen local restaurants, food vendors, performances, exhibits, and cash bar. Benefits Selby Library’s youth programs. Tickets: $25 - $30 | 941.861.1140 | selbylibraryfriends.org

Sarasota Art & Antiques Show January 14 – 17 Sarasota Municipal Auditorium. Featuring over 50 dealers from across North

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January 2016

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

Traditional Continental Cuisine. Award Winning Wine List.

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

Elegant Grounds for Special Occasions.

Dinner Tuesday – Sunday 5pm

BUYING OR

SELLING? It WOULD BE OUR pleasure to assist you.

Denise Mei & Nicole Mei REALTORS®

941.685.3198 | 941.400.0540 DeniseMei@michaelsaunders.com | NicoleMei@michaelsaunders.com

America and Europe presenting a wide range of antique furniture, paintings, silver, bronzes, porcelain, crystal, antique and estate jewelry, pottery, and more. Tickets: $8 | 708.366.2710 | sarasotaartandantiques.com

SMHF’s 4th Annual Women & Medicine Luncheon January 15 The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota 11:30 am. Featuring a lively, interactive panel discussion with three Sarasota Memorial Hospital physicians discussing trends in oncology care. Tickets: $100 | 941.917.1286 | smhf.org

St. Armands Circle Classic Antique Car Show January 16 St. Armands Circle 10:00 am. Take a stroll around the circle and view some of the greatest classic antique automobiles around. 941.388.1554 | starmandscircleassoc.com

The Historical Society Of Sarasota County Sunday In The Park January 17 Pioneer Park 2:00 pm. Featuring the “Light Chasers” with paintings for sale. Musical performances inside along with food and beverages. Reservations required. Tickets: $20 - $15 members | 941.364.9076 | hsosc.com

NCJW’s 34th Annual Women in Power Luncheon January 20 Michael’s On East 11:00 am. National Council of Jewish Women Sarasota-Manatee honors Felice Schulaner, Clare F. Segall, and Hillary Steele. Tickets $75 | 941.342.1855 | ncjwsarasota-manatee.org

9th Annual Downtown Venice Craft Festival January 23 – 24 Miami Avenue, downtown Venice 10:00 am.

Enjoy a wide variety of ceramics, jewelry, stained glass, metal

Historic West of the Trail Spanish Charmer with Courtyard, Pool & Guest House.

Call for more information & to schedule your private showing!

2170 McClellan Drive Sarasota, FL 34239 | Photos by Greg Wilson

works, and green market. Free admission | artfestival.com

Sarasota Garden Club’s Annual Flower Show January 23 – 24 Sarasota Garden Club 10:00 am. Members showcase their horticultural specimens and creative floral designs for the public to enjoy. Free Admission | 941.955.0875 | sarasotagardenclub.org

Sarasota Opera Gala January 23 The Ritz-Carlton 6:30 pm. Celebrating the start of the Verdi Cycle’s final season. Includes a cocktail hour, a delectable four-course dinner, and a special performance by the Opera’s Principal Artists. Tickets: $295 | 941.366.8450 | sarasotaopera.org

Venice Symphony’s Tea & Symphony January 27 Plantation Golf & Country Club 9:00 am. Participate in playing cards and other tabletop games along with a high-tea style luncheon. Tickets $35 | 941.207.8822 | thevenicesymphony.org

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Where Casual Ambiance

Meets Authentic Italian

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

Sarasota Orchestra’s Mozart Gala and Concert

Circus Arts Gala “Hats Off To Dolly”

January 27 Sarasota Municipal Auditorium 5:00 pm. Enjoy

January 29 The Big Top 6:30 pm. Wear your favorite hat and

a cocktail reception, elegant dinner, then a musical perfor-

enjoy dinner and the best in circus arts entertainment. Benefits

mance by the Sarasota Orchestra, ending with a concert by

The Circus Arts Conservatory. Tickets: $200 | 941.355.9335 |

opera singer Renée Fleming. Tickets: $500 | 941.487.2737 |

circusarts.org

sarasotaorchestra.org

13th Annual St. Armands Circle Art Festival 9th Annual Forks & Corks Food & Wine Festival

January 30 – 31 St. Armands Circle 10:00 am. Works from

January 29 – February 1 Various times and locations. Hosted

long-time festival favorites along with the newest names on the

by the Sarasota-Manatee Originals, this epicurean celebration

contemporary art scene. Free admission | artfestival.com

features interactive food and wine seminars, wines and beers live entertainment, and a charity wine auction. 941.365.2800 |

5th Annual Taylor Emmons Scholarship Fund Charity Golf & Poker Night

dineoriginal.com

January 30 Lakewood Ranch Country Club 10:30 am. Box

from around the world, signature dishes from area restaurants,

lunch and registration. Noon tee off (Shotgun). $200 individual

Junior League Of Sarasota’s Legacy Luncheon

player. Buffet dinner provided to golfers. Poker Night starts at

January 29 Michael’s On East 11:00 am. Featuring guest speak-

6:00 pm with buffet dinner at LWRCC. Tickets: $125 per play-

er Jessica Fellows. Tickets: $125 | 941.342.8500 | jlsarasota.org

er/$50 non-player | 941.915.9249 | temmons.org

Boys & Girls Clubs Steak & Burger

Catholic Charities Ball

January 29 Lee Wetherington Boys & Girls Club 6:00 pm.

January 30 The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota 6:00 pm. Proceeds benefit

Wear your western wear and enjoy some great food. Supports

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, in Sarasota and Manatee.

the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County. Tickets: $125 |

Tickets: $300 | 941.355.4680 x305 | catholiccharitiesdov.org

941.366.3911 | BGCSarasota.com

25th Anniversary Season Gala Gala Co Chairs Sydney Goldstein & Vivian Kouvant

Celebrate 25 Years of The Sarasota Ballet

For More Information, Contact Barbara Worth, Events Coordinator 941.225.6510 | bworth@sarasotaballet.org

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A Sterling Affair Save The Date 29 February 2016

With This Unique Performance & Gala Dinner

The 25th Anniversary Season Gala Is Proudly Sponsored By

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We pride ourselves on offering solutions that can give you the space and organization you and need to simplify your life and maximize the space in your home.

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Call or visit our SHOWROOM to schedule a free consultation 941-926 -7674

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Boys & Girls Clubs Jewels on the Bay Designer Showhouse

Sarasota Exotic Car Fest

January 31 – February 28 2716 Bayshore Road, Sarasota. Top

cocktail theater, downtown Sarasota concours, road rally, and

local designers transform home to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs

more. Benefits United Cerebral Palsy of Southwest Florida.

of Sarasota County. Tickets: $25 | 941.366.3911 | BGCSarasota.

941.348.9039 | sarasotaexoticcarfest.com

February 19 – 21 Various locations and times. Interactive

com | DesignerShowhouseSarasota.com

SCF Foundation’s Avenues des Artistes

Upcoming Events

February 20 SCF Bradenton Campus 6:00 pm. Stroll the bright-

Conservation Foundation’s Palm Ball

ly colored streets of Madrid, London, and Florence while dining

February 6 Bay Preserve in Osprey 6:30 pm. Enjoy cocktails,

on some gourmet delights and enjoying music and artwork from

dinner, and dancing under the stars by the bay. Benefits Con-

SCF students. Tickets: $125 | 941.752.5390 | scffoundation.net

servation Foundation of the Gulf Coast. 941.918.2100 | conser-

Education Foundation’s Evening of Excellence Gala

vationfoundation.com

February 26 Hyatt Sarasota 6:00 pm. Art pieces from area

Bethesda House Mardi Gras Madness

high school students are sold to the highest bidder at a live-

February 9 Michael’s On East 6:00 pm. An exciting evening

ly auction following a gourmet dinner. Proceeds provide

of dinner, dancing, and Mardi Gras festivities. All proceeds

scholarships to student artists and monetary awards to high

benefit Bethesda House. Tickets $150 | 941.355.4680 x311 |

school art departments. Tickets: $200/$250 | 941.927.0965 |

catholiccharitiesdov.org

edfoundation.net

Sarasota Garden Club’s Tutta Bella Fashion Show

Van Wezel Foundation’s 15th Annual Gala

February 12 The Hyatt Regency Ballroom 11:00 am. Featuring

February 28 Van Wezel 5:00 pm. Hollywood style gala with a

exciting fashions from various shops in the local area and a sur-

cocktail reception, live & silent auction, dinner, a live perfor-

prise guest speaker Sigrid Olsen. Tickets: $45 | 941.955.0875 |

mance by Josh Groban, and a pass to an exclusive after party.

sarasotagardenclub.org

Tickets: $475/$650 | 941.366.5578 | vwfoundation.org

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Women Medicine The Women’s Leadership Council of Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation will present the 4th Annual Women & Medicine Luncheon on January 15th at the Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota.

The event benefits the Foundation, which was founded to raise and distribute philanthropic funds to help improve the quality of healthcare within the greater Sarasota community. Grants totaling more than $60 million have been provided since the Foundation’s establishment in 1976.

This premier luncheon gives attendees the opportunity to hear from prominent Sarasota Memorial physicians and researchers as they share their professional expertise, research, life experiences, and ideas to improve our healthcare system.

“Trends & Innovations in Cancer Care” will be the topic discussed by three such doctors – Dr. James Fiorica, Gynecologic Oncology; Dr. Kenneth Meredith; Gastrointestinal Oncology; and Dr. Alissa Shulman, Plastic Surgery.

Dr. Fiorica directs clinical research trials that bring new chemotherapeutic drugs under development

to Southwest Florida patients. He also developed Sarasota Memorial’s robotic surgery program for women with gynecological cancer.

Dr. Meredith pioneered a number of minimally invasive and robotic techniques for treating gastrointestinal cancers. He has performed more robotic esophageal surgeries than anyone else in the world and ranks among the highest volume robotic surgeons for pancreatic cancer.

Dr. Allisa Shulman is Chief of the Plastic Surgery Section at Sarasota Memorial Hospital and is well known in the community for breast cancer reconstruction. She is also President of the Sarasota County Medical Society and the only woman on the board of the Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons.

The event begins with an Exhibitor Showcase at 10:30, with the luncheon starting at 11:30. To make your reservation, call 941.917.1286 or visit www.smhf.org

Social LWR Rotary Club “Uncorked” Gala Dinner The Rotary Club of Lakewood Ranch held its Suncoast Food and Wine Fest, which included its gala dinner, “Uncorked”, at Michael’s On East. The dinner, held on Veterans Day, featured guest speaker Commander Bradley Smith, United States Navy (Retired). The Players Artistic Director Jeffery Kin served as emcee and Eddie Tobin provided the entertainment. Net proceeds benefit local charities and International Rotary charities.

Photos by Nancy Guth

Kirsten Smith, Carol Ruoff, Navy Commander Bradley Smith & Corporal Rocky Ruoff

Vonda Johnson & Barry Sukoneck

Nancy & George Lewis & Cyndi Doragh

Jim McDaniel & Elizabeth Moore

Fat Tuesday, February 9, 2016 at Michael’s on East

Enjoy an exciting evening of dinner and dancing and a Mardi Gras Mask Contest!

6

6:00 p.m. Cocktail Reception - 7:00 p.m. Dinner Live Music by George Luther during cocktail hour.

Cocktail Attire - Ticket Price $150

Presented by Bethesda House For information call 941-355-4680 ext. 305 or email mpufta@ccdis1.org. www.catholiccharitiesdov.org www.facebook.com/CatholicCharitiesDioceseOfVenice Bethesda House 38

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All proceeds will benefit Bethesda House, a program of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc. which provides professional and compassionate support services for individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

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FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE MAINSTAGE

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

One Man, Two Guvnors

By Richard Bean

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

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

Butler

Soul Mates:

A Journey to Hitsville

By Bill Castellino with Human Nature and David Rudder

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

“Infectious sound” - Sarasota Herald-Tribune

By Richard Strand

Yesterday

Outside Mullingar

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

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

“Britannia ruled the airwaves in 1964”

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

By John Patrick Shanley

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

“Poignant” - The Seattle Times

Alabama Story

By Kenneth Jones

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

“Cleverly crafted” - Salt Lake Tribune

Developed by Richard Hopkins, Rebecca Hopkins, and Jim Prosser

- Rolling Stone Magazine

Laughing Matters (vol. 5) Lock the Gates

Developed by Rebecca Hopkins, Jim Prosser, and Adam Ratner

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

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

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

Luke Minx. Photo by Maria Lyle.

Richard Hopkins, Producing Artistic Director

Subscribe Online! !oridastudiotheatre.org

PERFORMING ARTS CALENDAR Wynonna & The Big Noise: Stories & Song at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Asolo Repertory Theatre

Conservatory – The Liar

941.351.8000 / asolorep.org

Through January 17 Dorante is charming, witty, handsome, and a pathological liar whose outlandish stories create an ever-increasing series of problems for himself and everyone around him.

All The Way January 17 – April 9 1964 was a pivotal year in American history and master politician Lyndon Baines Johnson sat at the center of it all, doing whatever it takes to get the Civil Rights bill passed and secure his re-election.

Living On Love January 13 – February 25 When opera diva Raquel discovers that her husband Vito, the Italian maestro, has become enamored with a young lady hired to ghostwrite his largely fictional autobiography, she retaliates by hiring her own handsome young scribe to chronicle her life as an opera star.

Ah, Wilderness!

January 20 – April 10 While the Miller family is planning their traditional holiday festivities, dreamy-eyed middle child Richard is spurned by his first love and sets out on a rebellious adventure into the adult world.

The Circus Arts Conservatory 941.355.9805 / circusarts.org

slave seeks sanctuary, but the laws of the land are unrelenting.

Cabaret – Soul Mates: A Journey To Hitsville Through February 7 Highlighting musicians and music from Motown.

Cabaret – Yesterday

January 17 Music concert featuring Sailor Circus acts at the Sailor Circus Arena.

January 6 – May 1 Journey back to a time of peace, love, and everything in between with songs such as “Let It Be,” “Satisfaction,” and “I’m Into Something Good.”

Florida Studio Theatre

Lemon Bay Playhouse

Windjammers Concert

941.366.9000 / floridastudiotheatre.org

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

Butler Through – February 26 During the Civil War in 1861, an escaped

941.475.6756 / lemonbayplayhouse.com

Marcy Downey “Hits and Bits of the Sullivan Show” January 9 Marcy performs song hits and classic comedy bits from Ed Sullivan’s most famous guests.

Plaza Suite January 20 – February 14 Hilarity abounds in three episodes of couples occupying a suite at the Plaza.

January 2016

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Manatee Performing Arts Center

The Ringling

Sarasota Orchestra

941.359.5700 / ringling.org

941.953.3434 / sarasotaorchestra.org

941.748.5875 / manateeperformingartscenter.com

Fred Moyer Jazz Trio

Masterworks 3 – Winter Dreams

January 9 – 10 Tribute to Five Great Jazz Pianists: Oscar Peterson, Ahmad Jamal, Dave Brubeck, Monty Alexander, and Marian McPartland

January 7 – 10 Featuring Overture by Dunayevsky, Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 3, and Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 1 (Winter Dreams); Anu Tali, Music Director and Mihkel Poll, piano.

A Chorus Line January 7 – 24 Seventeen dancers fight for a spot on the chorus line while performing popular songs such as “What I Did For Love” and “One.”

Diary of Anne Frank January 14 – 31 This play provides an intimate recollection of Anne Frank’s struggle throughout the Nazi invasion.

The Players Theatre

Windjammers Concert January 16 Celebrate circus with the Windjammers annual concert at the Museum.

Les Amies January 23 – 24 Performance with Carol Wincenc, flute; Cynthia Phelps, viola; Nancy Allen, harp.

Great Escapes 3 – Crazy for Classics January 13– 16 Memorable music favorites from Flight of the Bumblebee to Sleeping Beauty, and from Oklahoma to Blue Danube and Swan Lake. Featuring Bharat Chandra, principal clarinet, performing Mozart.

941.365.2494 / theplayers.org

Sarasota Ballet

Pops 1 – Memories Of My Favorite Things

Friday Night Live

941.359.0099 / sarasotaballet.org

January 8 Through sketches, musical numbers, videos and improv, your hosts will guide you through a sidesplitting night of entertainment.

Balanchine, de Valois & Graziano

January 22– 23 Guest vocalist Norm Lewis (Phantom of the Opera) performs a variety of songs from musicals. Andrew Lane, Conductor and Elizabeth Southard, vocals.

The Drowsy Chaperone

January 29 – February 1 Company premiere of George Balanchine’s Emeralds, the opening ballet in the choreographer’s famed three-act Jewels.

January 13 – 31 When a die-hard theatre fan plays his favorite cast album, the characters come to life in this hilarious musical farce.

Theater Performances:

A Chorus Line

January 7-24, 2016

The Diary of Anne Frank January 14-31,2016 Coming Soon:

Chess

February 11-28, 2016

Yank! A WWII Love Story February 18-March 6, 2016

Tickets on sale now! $26-$36

Box Office: 941-748-5875 42

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ManateePerformingAr tsCenter.com

S A R A S O TA

EXOTIC

CAR FEST

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

The Capitol Steps: “Mock the Vote”

941.955.7676 | vanwezel.org

January 17 – 18 This no-holds-barred political comedy act has become one of the country’s favorites.

Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story January 4 – 6

Ron White January 7

Jim Witter - The Piano Men II

January 21 – February 14 A barber, who was unjustly imprisoned for decades, returns to England bent on revenge that turns murderous.

January 13

The Diamonds

Catskills On Broadway

January 24 – 25 Featuring Diamond hits like “Little Darlin’,” “The Stroll,” “Why Do Fools Fall In Love,” and “Silhouettes.”

Black Violin January 12

January 14

Lisa Lampanelli January 15

Air Supply January 16

Paul Anka January 17

42nd Street January 20 – 21

Wynonna & The Big Noise: Stories & Song January 24

ABBA Mania

941.480.3191 / veniceperformingartscenter.com

Scandinavian Scenes

12th Annual Literacy Celebration

January 28

January 20 Award-winning author, Ellen Hopkins, speaks about her craft and the social issues facing our youth.

January 29

Joshua Bell January 30

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe

Yanni

941.366.1505 / westcoastblacktheatre.org

February 2

Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom

Venice Theatre 941.488.1115 / venicestage.com

Noises Off January 12 – 31 A motley crew of itinerant actors rehearsing a flop called “Nothing’s On.” Slamming doors, on-and-off-stage intrigue and an errant herring all figure in the plot of this laugh-out-loud, comic play.

January 2016

Venice Performing Arts Center

Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons Dancing With The Stars: LIVE! Dance All Night Tour

|

January 31 – February 1 A tribute to John Denver performed by Tom Becker.

January 27

Renée Fleming With The Sarasota Orchestra

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Back Home Again, A Tribute to John Denver

January 15 – 16 Featuring Mackenzie Melemed, a young pianist from the Juilliard School of Music, with a performance of the Grieg Piano Concerto.

January 25

44

Sweeney Todd

January 13 – February 20 It’s 1927 in Chicago, and the fiery Blues legend Gertrude “Ma” Rainey is ready to record her signature songs. Inside the cramped studio, she squares off against a battling quartet of musicians and a tight-fisted, white producer.

Social Planned Parenthood’s High Tide at High Noon Fashion Show More than 250 supporters gathered at the Sarasota Yacht Club for this annual fundraiser chaired this year by Pauline W. Joerger, Bianca Lawrence, Mindy Rollins and Allison Scanlan. Guests were entertained by a fashion show directed

by Lissa Murphy featuring the fashions of Blackbird Lifestyle, Dream Weaver, Lotus Boutique and Influence Style. Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida’s own KT Curran moderated the show with fashions worn by President/CEO Barbara A. Zdravecky, local professional women and men, and Planned Parenthood’s SOURCE actors. Funds raised with help from sponsors such as Gulf Coast Community Foundation will support Planned Parenthood’s prevention education programs.

Photos by Nancy Guth

Clare Segall & Judy Cuppy

Allison Scanlan, Bianca Lawrence, Pauline Joerger & Mindy Rollins

Shirley Farrell & Sue Honsberger

Patricia Courtois & Jan Chester

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When it comes to money, nothing is more critical than good communication.

This is why our process starts with communication. Did you know that you have unique strengths where communication is concerned? The challenge is, until now, couples have not had a simple way to capture these unique strengths in a meaningful way, especially in the area of finances.

In a simple, 10-minute online questionnaire, you can have a comprehensive, personal and encouraging report. While not designed to be 100% accurate, the profile report objectively presents predictable behavior. It provides sophisticated insights about the individual’s unique strengths which can be used to recognize and understand natural strengths that we each have. This allows us to use those strengths in solving problems, processing information, managing change and facing risk.

Let us help you identify the strengths in you and those around you (your spouse or business partner), to better communicate effectively with each other. Take this next step to discover and use your God-given strengths, to value your spouse’s strengths, and to build oneness.

Whether you are looking to enrich your marriage or are struggling in a difficult marriage – don’t just survive. Both of you can thrive.

Go to www.WealthWithScene.com or call us at 941-361-1484

ealth Planning and Design LLC

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

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

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

DESIGN

Eclectic Style

By Jacqueline Miller

A

re you someone who likes to shake things up with an eclectic style at home? No rules, just

lots of mixing – old and new, East meets West, ornate and subdued, bold and muted colors, unique and traditional. If done right, your space could become the wow that some of us only dream about.

While there, I found this versatile sideboard made of silver-finished iron and mango wood

If you’re not very creative, here’s how you

in a dark walnut finish. This sideboard, a classic

might want to get started. Throw away the rule-

piece sure to stand the test of time, is a great

book and start your search at stores that offer

choice that can be mixed with other styles to

unique statement pieces to serve as your room

create an eclectic room.

“anchors”. A great place to start, and don’t let

In order to successfully navigate the line be-

the name fool you, is Rugs As Art, a huge show-

tween contrast and chaos when designing your

room filled with beautifully crafted rugs, unique

room, Rugs as Art has design consultants to help

accent furniture, accessories and pillows (both

make your eclectic style appealing and tasteful.

indoor and outdoor) from all over the world,

You’ll need rugs, artwork, accents and other ele-

and a wonderful selection of affordable art for

ments to find the right mix. After all, the method-

your walls. The showroom is located at 6650 S.

ical mismatching of an eclectic style is an art that

Tamiami Trail (941-921-1900).

in many cases is best left to the experts.

January 2016

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BROADWAY BOUND! SECURE YOUR TICKETS NOW BEFORE THEY’RE GONE.

Social Sarasota Orchestra Season Opener Brunch This year’s Sarasota Orchestra Season Opener Brunch was another resounding success. The event, which was chaired by Jill & Scott Levine and Meg & Tom Ryan, benefited the Orchestra’s educational programs. The highlight of this sold-out event was the sponsor-astudent campaign, which raised more than $88,000 for students attending Youth Orchestra and Summer Music Camp. The brunch was held at a beautifully appointed Michael’s On East thanks to the talented Anne Folsom Smith and Cindi Perkins who were in charge of the décor.

Photos by Nancy Guth

A New Musical

April 27 – May 29, 2016 AsoloRep.org David & Pamela Steves, Beathe & Jerry Elden

Rob Lambert & Susan Heinz

Anne Folsom Smith & Alexsandra Coles

Tom & Meg Ryan, Jill & Scott Levine

Deborah Cox as Josephine Baker. Photo by Mike Ruiz. © Deco Recording Group, LLC.

ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE Sponsored by

Tom & Sherry Koski & Anne Garlington

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Virginia Phillips, Al Roach & Angela Begin

When Virginia Phillips heard of 20 Minutes to Fitness, a slow

and get the best possible training session – no matter the state

cadence strength training protocol requiring just 20 minutes

of their body. “Clients include tennis players and golf pros and

once a week, the former competitive bodybuilder was skeptical.

those referred by their doctors for issues such as pre-and post-

But her husband, Al Roach, who was not a fan of working out

surgery for knee and hip replacements, and those who simply

at the gym, was impressed. Research showed that the clinically

enjoy having a fit, healthy body,” she says. Phillips likes seeing

based protocol had been around for years and was effective in

clients get into great shape, but also seeing the real, life-altering

building muscle and increasing bone density. Today, along with

improvements in their health, such as reduced hypertension,

Angela Begin, the General Manager, they own the 20 Minutes

less pain from arthritis, and improved bone density.

to Fitness studio in Lakewood Ranch. The Downtown Sarasota

The slow cadence protocol takes muscles to peak

studio opened in 2010. There are also two locations in St. Louis.

performance, improving muscle growth. The muscle tendons

Phillips got into bodybuilding when she was advised that

pull on the bone, stressing it as well – so muscles and bone

exercise is a natural way of dealing with the debilitating migraines

rebuild and become stronger. In order to make it easy for people

that she experienced – aggravated by the stress of operating a

to gain the benefits that 20 Minutes to Fitness offers, there is no

successful air conditioning business, which was taken public in

membership requirement or minimum purchase. “Our unique

1997. After competing for five years, lifting the heavy weights

training sets us apart from other fitness centers along with the

took a toll on her body, causing her several neck and back

research and science behind our process,” Phillips says. “We

issues and torn rotator cuff. “Now, I train with no problems

offer anyone at any age and at any fitness level the opportunity to

using our medical grade equipment, which offers an extremely

build a strong, healthy body and reduce the risk of those health

safe, smooth motion,” Virginia says. “The 20 Minutes to Fitness

issues that come with the aging process. Our complimentary

protocol is an efficient, effective, and safe way to reverse the

orientation is available for anyone interested in learning about

aging process. Our clients range from 12 to 94 years old.”

our unique and effective training.” To schedule your visit call

Each client works with a nationally certified personal fitness coach on each piece of equipment assuring that they stay safe

941.309.8989 (Lakewood Ranch), 941-361-1000 (Sarasota) or visit 20minutestofitness.com

GET INSPIRED

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

“When I was five years old my mom and dad took me to see The Sarasota Ballet’s Nutcracker. Every year since, I have taken ballet class, and now this year, I am the assistant ballet teacher for five year olds. Seeing that ballet inspired me to learn to dance and help other little girls and boys love dancing.”

T

Sophie Caragiulo, Fourth Grade Student at Southside Elementary School and daughter of Sarasota County Commissioner Paul & Nikki Caragiulo

he arts influence and inspire people of all ages and walks of life, but not everyone gets the opportunity to experience the arts as Sophie did at age five.

Exposure to the arts for all is key to our success as a community.

Here are some important community outreach programs to

inspire and involve our youth in the arts.

Sarasota Ballet’s Dance-The Next Generation (DNG) is a oneof-a-kind dropout prevention program that provides disciplined instruction in ballet, jazz, elements of dance and composition.

The DNG program serves students enrolled in Sarasota County Public Schools who are identified in the third grade as at-risk for dropping out before graduating high school. Students in the

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program are evaluated each year and must retain a 3.2 GPA to continue eligibility. At the completion of the program and upon graduation from high school, the students are able to apply for a scholarship from either State College of Florida or USF SarasotaManatee. 100 percent of the students who complete the DNG program have graduated from high school. The mission of Dance-The Next Generation is to inspire, motivate, and educate the students to graduate from high school through the discipline of dance. DNG empowers students to realize their full potential.

SarasotaBallet.org/DNG | Program Director: Lisa Townsend (ltownsend@sarasotaballet.org) | 941.359.0099, ext 126 Florida Studio Theatre (FST) is committed to making

programming that is accessible and affordable for everyone.

Currently 20 percent of FST students that attend in-house classes are on scholarship or receive financial aid. FST also offers workshops taught by professional teaching artists to integrate arts education into the classroom. Discounts are offered for Title One Schools and staff is available to answer questions and assist with writing grants and securing funding. Christine Hopkins: 941.366.9017, ext 311 | email: CHopkins@floridastudiotheatre.org The Circus Arts Conservatory’s one-of-a-kind education program takes learning in the classroom to a new level. The Conservatory’s teaching artists travel to Title One schools to engage students in key academic subjects including Science, Language Arts and Theatre. These inquiry-based lessons are developed to comply with the New Florida State Standards.

Since 2012 the Conservatory has instructed more than 9,000 students in 25 elementary and middle schools. CircusArts.org | 941.355.9335 Since 1984, the Sarasota Youth Opera program (under the Sarasota Opera) has given thousands of young people age eight and older an opportunity to experience opera firsthand through participation in after-school choruses, Sarasota Opera mainstage performances, an annual three-week Opera Summer Camp, and fully-staged Youth Opera productions. As the only program in the United States committed to annually producing operas written specifically for young voices on an annual basis, Youth Opera members are given an experience unlike any other. Sarasota Youth Opera wants to ensure every child who wants a music education has the opportunity to receive it. Ben Plocher, Manager of Educational Activities: 941.366.8450, ext 249 | sarasotaopera.org

Upcoming Events/Performances/Exhibits: The Library Foundation's 29th Annual Author Event Bookends, An Evening with Two Literary Giants Jan. 19, 2016 7 p.m. in the Neel Performing Arts Center at State College of Florida.

John Grisham in conversation with Stephen King will be featured.

Proceeds to benefit Manatee County Public Library System's Literacy Program. Bookstore1 will also be selling autographed copies of Grisham's latest book at the event. manateelibraryfoundation.org | (941) 216-8746.

Plaza Suite Lemon Bay Playhouse, 96 West Dearborn St., Englewood Jan. 20 – Feb. 14, 2016. Lemon Bay Playhouse presents Plaza Suite, written by Neil Simon and directed by Ric Goodwin. In the production, hilarity abounds in this portrayal of three couples occupying a suite at the Plaza – all for different reasons. Reserved seat tickets are $18. Student tickets are available at $12 each. lemonbayplayhouse.com | 941.475.6756

Realism, the Art of Make Believe Dabbert Gallery, 76 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota, Jan. 2 – Jan. 31, 2016.

Realism, the Art of Make Believe runs through January 31. This exhibit will feature 10 of Dabbert’s realist painters. A good realist painter will portray their subject in such detail that they will make you believe it’s real. A great realist painter will allow you to feel the realism you see. This exhibit invites you to experience both realities. Call Dabbert Gallery at (941) 955-1315 or visit dabbertgallery.com for more information.

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Philadelphia Artist Cardamone presents New American Botanicals at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens’ Museum of Botany & the Arts 900 S. Palm Ave, Sarasota. Through March 3, 2016. Philadelphia artist MF Cardamone presents a show of mixed media botanical art at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens’ Museum of Botany & the Arts through March 3rd.

New American Botanicals: The Art of MF Cardamone presents original, playful mixed media prints that evoke surrealism blended with traditional botanical illustrations popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. A lecture about the exhibit and discussion about the artist as a botanist will be held at the Gardens’ Great Room from 12 – 1 p.m. on Jan. 13th by Dr. Matthew McLendon, The Ringling Museum’s Curator of Contemporary Art. $19 Adults, $6 Ages 5 – 11; free to Members. selby.org

Ma Rainey's Black Bottom Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1646 10th Way, Sarasota Jan. 13- Feb. 20, 2016.

Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe continues its commitment to produce every play by Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning playwright August Wilson. In Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, it’s 1927 in Chicago, and the fiery blues legend Gertrude “Ma” Rainey is ready to record her signature songs. This gripping play with music highlights a time in American history when even the most renowned black singer of her day had to fight against racism for the respect she deserved. westcoastblacktheatre.org | 941.366.1505

Locally Owned & Operated Since 1986, Ambiance Construction specializes in custom home construction, custom remodels & upgrades for condominiums, bathrooms & kitchens, water features and more.

5077-109 Fruitville Road Suite 422 | Sarasota FL 34232 Direct: 941-320-4044 | Office: 941-371-7617 www.ambianceconstruction.net CERTIFIED GENERAL CONTRACTOR #1523785

The Bullet Hole “Florida’s Oldest Gun Store”

Located in the heart of Downtown Sarasota since 1947.

Specializes in Firearms, Liberty Safes & Accessories.

Art Center Sarasota Exhibits 707 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Dec. 10, 2015 – Jan. 16, 2016. Decade: Selected Paintings

by Hugh Davies: Bringing together paintings from the past 10 years, one from each year, this exhibition promises a glimpse into the evolution of Davies’ paintings. Of interest is the continued influence of Sarasota since his move from London, which becomes apparent in this rare overview of his work. Chalk it UP: A community created installation of drawings on the walls of the gallery. Art Center Sarasota Instructors’ Show: A presentation of the varied mediums taught at the Center by the instructors who teach them. What Lies Beneath: All subject, all media, juried exhibition. artsarasota.org | 941.365.2032

“Happy New Year from Our Family to Yours!”

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

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

January 2016

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Saturday, January 30, 2016 The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota

Enjoy an elegant, black-tie evening of cocktails, auctions, dinner and dancing to the sounds of Soul Sensations.

Guest of Honor Bishop Frank J. Dewane

HonoraryChair Maria DeSanto

Event Chairs

Mary Kenealy-Barbetta ď ™ Julie Delaney ď ™ Jane Norton We are proud to honor Northern Trust for their commitment to serving our community.

Event Sponsor

To Benefit

Media Sponsors

Sarasota and Manatee Counties

Tickets are $300. Sponsorship opportunities are available.

For more information call 941-355-4680 at ext. 305 or email mpufta@ccdis1.org or visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org.

Youthful Aging Home Health Youthful Aging Home Health stands out among other private duty care agencies by offering a premier, concierge-style service to a limited number of clients, allowing highly-personalized care customized to meet individual needs. Youthful Aging Home Health is locally owned by Nicci Kobritz, who founded it more than 20 years ago after moving to the area to care for her own aging parents. She empathizes with clients’ children who are concerned with their parents’ safety and well-being, which is one reason for her focus on medically sound and attentive service.

“Limiting the number of clients we serve allows us to give each client a lot of attention,” Kobritz says.

“Our nurse develops a care plan with the client, and a nursing instructor trains caregivers to each individual plan to make sure things are done the way the client wants them done.” Going a step beyond that to ensure client satisfaction, Youthful Aging Home Health also has complementary supervisory visits by a nurse to ensure plans are followed and clients’ needs are being met.

Youthful Aging Home Health offers a full menu of services including personal assistants to run er-

port brain health can allow people the chance to continue living in-

rands or provide transportation, CNAs and HHAs to

dependently,” she says. “We incorporate brain health protocols for all

aid with bathing, dressing, grooming, light house-

clients but are uniquely qualified to provide a higher standard of care

keeping and meal preparation, and registered nurses

for those with memory issues.”

to manage health conditions proactively. Clients also

Kobritz also believes in giving back in creative ways that benefit cli-

have the ability to choose caregivers who meet their

ents, such as a new partnership with Children First. As the first pediatric

needs through Youthful Aging Home Health’s Match.

nurse practitioner in northern Maine, Kobritz has an affinity for children

Care process.

and wanted to help subsidize day care for financially disadvantaged

Memory loss is the leading reason individu-

families. She also saw an opportunity for her clients. “A lot of our clients

als need home health care. Lifestyle factors, such

need to socialize more, and we have made arrangements for them to

as diet, exercise and social interaction, have been

do volunteer work with the children. The question always is how to get

shown to improve brain health, leading Kobritz to

our clients to their maximum potential,” she says. “Our goal is to find as

believe that home health care can be at the vanguard

many ways as possible to get them working to the best of their capabili-

of supporting brain health. “Anything we do to sup-

ties so they can do as much as possible for as long as possible.”

Youthful Aging Home Health

5602 Marquesas Circle #105, Sarasota

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941.925.9532

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www.youthfulaging.net

sarasota opera presents

The Opera Gala

Saturday, January 23, 2016, 6:30

pm

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

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

Victor DeRenzi, Artistic Director Richard Russell, Executive Director

Sarasota Opera’s 2014 production of Verdi’s rarely seen Jerusalem. Photo by Rod Millington

Completing Verdi The “Cycle-Logical” Way

T

By Steven J. Smith

he Sarasota Opera will make history this season as it completes a process begun back in 1989 — producing every opera, including every alternative version, written by legendary composer Giuseppe Verdi.

Maestro Victor DeRenzi, who serves as artistic director and principal conductor, said the completion of the

Verdi Cycle would also include every non-operatic work as well, making Sarasota Opera the only opera company in the world to have performed all of the composer’s music. Looking back on this extraordinary achievement, DeRenzi said one of the project’s more significant highlights has been in producing Verdi’s lesser-known works.

“Don Carlos is great and everybody knows that, along with Otello, La traviata, and Rigoletto, etcetera,” DeRenzi said. “But to see an audience response to an opera like King for a Day or Jerusalem — operas that are rarely, if ever, performed these days — I think that’s what leaves the biggest impression for me.” DeRenzi added the biggest challenge in staging all of Verdi’s work was the cost of producing them in a challenging economy.

“We had scheduled to finish the Cycle in 2013, which was Verdi’s 200th birthday,” he said. “But as the economy has gone up and down, we’ve had to adjust our long-range plans. The other challenge was in deciding what opera to do at what time. You have to build a company of performers around a Verdi opera. So if we’re doing La traviata, we’d have a different company than we would, doing Don Carlos, which is a much bigger production.”

In addition to staging Verdi’s Aida and The Battle of Legnano this season, Sarasota Opera plans two concerts of Verdi’s music, talks, panel discussions and other special events —not the least of which are full productions January 2016

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Maria D’Amato and Rafael Davila as Otello in the 2012 production of Verdi’s Otello.

Photo by Rod Millington

Corey Crider as the Cavaliere of Belfiore in Verdi’s A King for a Day. Photo

by Rod Millington

of the operas Cosi fan tutte, by Mozart and Fidelio, by Beethoven.

“We’re doing those two operas because Verdi had great respect and love for both of those composers,” DeRenzi said. “So they are connected very much to Verdi. Also the last week of our season, March 15-20, will be a Verdi festival week and in addition to performances of Aida and The Battle of Legnano, we’ll be doing a concert, which will be the premiere of the critical edition of pieces Verdi wrote when he was very young. Some of those pieces have not been performed since the 1830s. They were recently discovered in a library in Busseto, where Verdi is from. Then there is a big final concert, where we’re doing some of Verdi’s popular pieces, but also pieces we have not done that will make the Cycle complete.”

During that same week, Sarasota Opera will hold a conference featuring scholars from all over the world, discussing Verdi’s works and contributions to the opera world.

“The conference will be very much about performing Verdi, so the ensuing panel discussion will certainly be about how we perform him and how he’s performed generally,” DeRenzi said. “There are members of our company who have been very involved in the Verdi Cycle and will be a part of the panel discussion. Also David Lawton, a Verdi scholar and conductor, will be a part of that, as will Dr. Francesco Izzo, co-director of the American Institute of Verdi Studies in New York City and general editor of The Works of Giuseppe Verdi.”

He added an exhibit encompassing “28 years of the Verdi Cycle” will go on display at the Opera House, featuring Sarasota Opera’s history of producing the composer’s works. Also guests from the Italian government will appear, along with several of Verdi’s descendants.

DeRenzi said he had not heard from the Guinness Book of World Records yet, but was positive no other opera company has accomplished the task of producing every note of Verdi’s works.

“And I don’t really think this has been done, in this way, for any other major composer,” he said. “We have done this in a very concise period of time. There is an aesthetic overview to all these productions. This has never been done with Verdi.” DeRenzi affirmed, however, he would not attempt a cycle for any other opera composer.

“I don’t think there’s another composer who is as worthy of this as Verdi is,” he said. “Now I love Puccini, but Puccini often revised his works after its premieres. With Verdi, the early versions of his operas had a very strong performance history. So even though Verdi revised Macbeth almost 30 years after its premiere, he did it because tastes changed, not because the first version was invalid.”

DeRenzi promised although the Verdi Cycle is coming to a close, Sarasota Opera would come back to him again in 2018, possibly with a production of A Masked Ball or La traviata. “Verdi will not completely leave us,” he said. “Nor will we leave him.”

For more information about the Verdi Cycle or Sarasota Opera’s winter season, call 941-328-1300, or visit www.sarasotaopera.org or www.verdicycle.org.

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B O w L E R S , f E d O R A S , fA S C I n AT O R S , T O O

C H A P E A U , B O AT E R , I T ' S U P T O y O U .

T O P H A T, C L O C H E , w H A T E v E R y O U R f O L Ly

jUST mAkE SURE yOU wEAR OnE fOR

THE 2016 CIRCUS ARTS GALA f R I d Ay, j A n U A R y 2 9 , 2 0 1 6 UndER THE BIG TOP AT n AT H A n B E n d E R S O n PA R k , BEHInd THE UTC mALL

THE 2016 CIRCUS ARTS GALA BEnEfITTInG CAC OUTREACH PROGRAmS

Please join Honorary Chairperson, Maryann Robinson as we Take Our Hats Off and applaud the many achievements of our gracious and lovely Dolly Jacobs, including her recent NEA National Heritage Fellowship.

941.355.9335 | CIRCUSARTS.ORG SPONSORSHiPS & RESERvATiONS AvAilAblE

The Circus Arts Conservatory is the nation’s only non-profit organization perpetuating the circus arts as southwest Florida’s historical legacy through innovative multi-generational programming.

Cocktails by the Bay Dinner Reception Live Performance by Josh Groban After-Party

S A R A S O TA P R E M I E R E O F

THE 15TH ANNUAL VAN WEZEL FOUNDATION GALA

Sunday, February 28, 2016 | 5PM

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! For tickets and sponsorship opportunities call 941-366-5578 or visit vwfoundation.org GALA PROCEEDS SUPPORT THE VAN WEZEL FOUNDATION’S MISSION

Joan Lieberman

Famiglio Family

Bill & Sandy Dietrich

Newkirk/Bahaj/Schleicher Families

EVENTS OF DISTINCTION

l

ATTENTION TO DETAIL

Rita Altman Rita Medical Elite

lients from their 20s to their 90s turn to Rita Altman, P.A., MPAS to look refreshed, relaxed, and rejuvenated and often find they not only look better, but feel better, too. Altman, founder of Rita Medical Elite, is known for her ability to achieve a natural appearance that leaves the impression of agelessness rather than sudden changes that appear “plastic” and overdone. “As we leave our 20s behind, we produce less collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid, and our skin starts to show effects of sun exposure, pollution, stress, smoking, and just living a hectic lifestyle,” she says. “The good news is that we can do something about it. I focus 100 percent of my time on aesthetic procedures to turn back the hands of time and fight the effects of gravity.”

Altman is an experienced medical practitioner who uses a variety of noninvasive procedures to transform facial landscapes. She works with neuromodulators that relax wrinkles and flatten facial “mountains” and high quality dermal fillers, such as Radiesse and Juvederm, to fill in the “valleys.” She also uses chemical peels and Retin-A treatments to bring forth a more youthful glow. Altman has a master’s degree in physician’s associate studies from Emory University School of Medicine and 20 years of experience working in surgery.

She has worked with injectable procedures for 10 years and is a nationally recognized expert who has trained many other professionals, including plastic surgeons and dermatologists, in her methodologies.

An important part of Altman’s approach is to allow ample time for engaging with clients during appointments. “I want to take care of people for life,” she says. “Clients will come in not feeling good and don’t know why. Even with a small fix, they leave feeling great.” As it turns out, there is research to back up that feeling. Studies have shown that using Botox to smooth frown lines eases symptoms of depression significantly. Altman develops long-term relationships with her clients – 95 percent of her business is returning clients and referrals – and she focuses on education. She teaches the importance of relaxing muscles and relieving tension to prevent lines and wrinkles, and as one of the area’s most popular yoga instructors, she understands the healing power of maintaining a balanced life.

2161 Siesta Drive, Sarasota, FL 34239 | 941.951.2161 | ritamedicalelite.com

A Cultural Appeal Jean Weidner Goldstein

By Steven J. Smith | Photo by Nancy Guth

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Jean Weidner Goldstein, a renowned, former balle-

in their lives. Also in 2001, she co-founded Designing

rina in her own right, was inspired to launch the Sara-

Women Boutique — with Diane Roskamp and Marga-

sota Ballet 25 years ago by Leo Rogers, then chairman

ret Wise — whose profits help support local arts and

of the Sarasota Opera.

human services programs.

“Leo wanted to have ballet with the opera perfor-

Widowed in 2003, Weidner Goldstein married

mances,” she said. “He encouraged me to start a bal-

longtime friend and widower Alfred Goldstein in 2011.

let company and it was the last thing I wanted to do,

Her own life happily settled once again, she sees a

because I knew I would have to be a one-man band

hopeful future with the Sarasota Ballet as well.

to accomplish it.”

“We have a company that’s happy,” she said. “We

Weidner Goldstein was born in Rhodesia, South

have an extraordinary repertoire, which means the

Africa, which is now Zimbabwe. She began dancing

ballets that the artists dance were developed by them.

at the age of four and a half and trained at Rhode-

Their performing ability and their acting ability are ex-

sia’s Royal Academy. Her first job was with the Cape

emplary. This in turn is what gives audiences a satis-

Town Ballet, where she learned most of the repertoire

faction they don’t find with all ballet companies.”

of famed choreographer Frederick Ashton — a reper-

She added Iain Webb and his wife Margaret Barbi-

toire she later brought with her to the U.S. She also

eri have started a conservatory under Barbieri’s name.

performed with the world-famous Stuttgart Ballet in

“Young, topnotch dancers are coming from all over

Germany, where she met and married her former hus-

the world,” Weidner Goldstein said. “Iain is a real im-

band, who conducted there. They came to America

presario. And Maggie mounts and cares for these very

and settled initially in Indiana, where she began her

unique and special ballets, which we honor and keep

first dancing school and ballet company.

in our repertoire.”

When the marriage ended, Weidner Goldstein

Current challenges to the ballet include shrinking

married Kenneth Weidner and in 1987 the couple set-

rehearsal, costume shop, set building and campus

tled in Sarasota, where she met Rogers.

space, a lack of housing for visiting students, transpor-

“Leo Rogers was a real visionary,” she said. “He heard I was in town and within weeks he contacted me. I struggled on the hook for a while, but eventually off we went!”

Weidner Goldstein began the Sarasota Ballet as a presenting group.

“We spent three years trying to build an audience,” she said. “Then we hired Eddy Toussaint as director in 1990, which is when we started the real company in the Sarasota Opera House.”

She added the ballet’s success can be traced to its three artistic directors — Toussaint (1990-1993), Robert

tation for the “Dance — The Next Generation” students and the need for a piano accompanist.

“And we don’t have our own theater,” Weidner Goldstein said. “We use Asolo Rep's theater, the Opera House and the Van Wezel, working around their schedules. The dates available to us are few and far between.”

These challenges point to the need for a new building campaign, she added.

“I’m hoping we can find a partner,” she said. “We deserve a theater complex. And I’m hoping the city will take the steps necessary to build something special.”

de Warren (1993-2006) and Iain Webb (2006-present).

That could happen, she added, through a nascent

“Each brought something wonderful and very dif-

initiative called Bayfront 20/20, utilizing land adjacent

ferent to the organization,” she said. “They each en-

to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall that would ac-

hanced it and when I look at it now, it’s the kind of

commodate an envisioned “cultural district.” But it

company that I envisioned in Cape Town and Stutt-

might be as long as a decade or more before ground

gart. Now we have 58 dancers, which is incredible.”

breaks on that project.

Ballet is only one of Weidner Goldstein’s many

“We are one of the greatest arts communities any-

strengths. She was involved in the creation of “Dance

where in this nation and we deserve this,” Weidner

— The Next Generation,” a scholarship program for

Goldstein said. “We need a benefactor to step forward

195 underprivileged and at-risk students currently, in

and say, ‘Here is my gift. I want to leave a mark on this

which ballet training is used as a catalyst for change

community. Let’s have an arts complex.’”

January 2016

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Dedicated to Helping Caring Hearts

The Bertha K. Gibbons/Lucia Freeman Memorial Scholarship Fund at State College of Florida

By Ryan G. Van Cleave | Photo by Nancy Guth

For decades, Sarasota resident Patricia Corbus has

Manatee Junior College “way back then,” she notes). On

been quietly producing works of beauty via the poems

the first day, in walked a hotshot New Yorker who was

she’s published in some of the finest literary journals

very smart, very likable, and he told the class, “I’m go-

in the US as well as in two collections of her own po-

ing to give you three possible businesses to invest in and

etry. But she’s also responsible for another beautiful

you have to tell me which is the right choice.” And after

thing through a partnership with State College of Flori-

he explained the facts about the three choices, Corbus

da Foundation, Inc. (SCFF). Together with her daughter,

made up her mind. He told her she’d made the right

mother, and husband Burton, Corbus created the Bertha

choice. That got her interested in the stock market as

K. Gibbons/Lucia Freeman Memorial Scholarship Fund

well as left her with a good feeling about SCF.

to help nursing students complete the training they need to successfully enter the healthcare workplace.

For the past 35 years now, Corbus has been giving back and giving back. Since the nursing fund’s inception,

“When my mother was dying back in 1980,” says

it has helped eight SCF nursing students in need com-

Corbus, “she was attended to by a marvelous nurse at

plete their education and successfully enter the health-

Sarasota Memorial Hospital who was a nursing student

care workforce, and that pleases Corbus to no end. Her

at State College of Florida.” During the course of many

mother was a nurse after all, and it was only through the

late-night chats, that nurse shared her own story of hard-

generosity of an anonymous person (later discovered to

ship and revealed some of the challenges inherent in

be Lucia Freeman, a former WWI Army nurse whose list

becoming a nurse today. “Mother, Lili, and I looked at

of accomplishments and generous acts is stunningly siz-

each other and we decided right then — let’s start a

able) that she was able to escape a life of desperate pov-

scholarship for nurses.” And that’s exactly what they did.

erty and attend Pittman Hospital Nurses’ Training in Fay-

The obvious local partner was State College of Flor-

etteville, Arkansas. Corbus says, “Mother loved the idea

ida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) because of their successful

that others could be supported in their own journey.”

nursing program. Corbus already had close connections

The most recent recipient of the scholarship is Sandra

to both Manatee and Sarasota counties thanks to her fa-

Stafford, a woman whose own hardships in life perhaps

ther owning the extremely popular Nautilus Shell Shop,

equal those of Corbus’ mother. Stafford has persevered,

which opened in 1939 on one side of the Florida The-

though, and is not only excelling in her own studies, but

ater Building (now the Opera House). When the shell

has become a mentor and model for her classmates,

business began to boom, they opened a second store,

often supporting them in their lives through counseling

and also moved the original store to a new bigger build-

as well as helping them keep their focus on a successful

ing on the west side of South Washington Boulevard,

future career. Cassandra Holmes, Executive Director of

bordering Oak Street. “Anytime anyone came to visit

SCFF, says, “She’s an amazing woman. So much so, in

the area, they always wanted to go to the Nautilus. Ev-

fact, that she was the speaker for SCFF’s 2015 Schol-

eryone went there for their souvenirs,” says Corbus.

arship Luncheon. Her incredible story of perseverance

While Corbus didn’t graduate from SCF, she did take an evening course there on the stock market (SCF was

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January 2016

and redemption brought the room to tears.”

“To know that someone has put their trust and hope

in me is humbling,” said Stafford at the luncheon. “It

ible benefactors and donors that provide the resources

allows me to be able to put all of my effort into my

for these students to realize their dreams.”

education versus working full time and trying to get this

In a letter to the SCFF, Corbus wrote: “It gives my hus-

degree. It’s taken a huge burden off of me financially.”

band Burton, Lili, and me much pleasure to see the schol-

Stafford also told the attendees that “the opportunity to

arship grow. We know that Bertha K. Gibbons [Corbus’

go to college and obtain a degree gives me the oppor-

mother], a woman of resolve, courage, and love — still

tunity to earn a living and to be able to one day give

much beloved by all her family — is still helping peo-

back. Without the SCF Foundation, I wouldn’t be stand-

ple just as Lucia Freeman’s vision once led Bertha out of

ing here today. I wouldn’t be attending this beautiful

poverty into greater possibilities. These are our family’s

luncheon in this gorgeous venue. I wouldn’t have the

heroines. In this scholarship we honor them both.”

opportunities that are being afforded to me now.”

At that same luncheon, SCF President Dr. Carol Probstfeld said, “The outstanding efforts of our students come to life because of the Foundation and our incred-

And in this scholarship, they have truly created a beautiful lasting thing that honors us all.

For more information, please visit scffoundation.net or call 941.752.5390.

January 2016

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The Foundation Behind

Our Good

Health

By Sue Cullen | Photo of David Verinder & Alex Quarles by Nancy Guth

I

n recent years, the altered landscape and skyline around Sarasota Memorial Health Care System are visible reminders of its resolve to stay on the leading edge of medical care, keep up with rapidly evolving community needs, and pursue a vision of becoming a teaching hospital and re-

gional referral center. The community has witnessed Sarasota Memorial’s determination to accomplish all of this with the recent opening of Sarasota County’s only Level II trauma center, the launch of a new internal medicine residency program, and construction currently under way on a $50 million Rehabilitation Pavilion. The new Pavilion will incorporate today’s most effective, evidence-based protocols and advanced technology for helping patients return to lives interrupted by illness or trauma.

One of the driving forces behind the implementation of these initiatives, and other hospital advancements over the past 40 years, is the Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation (SMHF), whose fundraising efforts have aided the hospital in areas ranging from its first entry into robotic surgery and support of construction of the new Courtyard Tower and vital continuing education for nurses and other clinicians. “Tourism and the retirement and vacation lifestyle help make up our fabulous community,” said SMHF CEO Alex Quarles. “Healthcare has also become a big part of why someone chooses to live here and, as such, is a great economic driver. Without good health, nothing else matters. Serving an excellent healthcare facility is an unbelievable honor.”

“Sarasota Memorial owes its reputation and very existence to the generosity and support from the community,” said Sarasota Memorial CEO David Verinder. “The Healthcare Foundation has built on that long tradition of philanthropy, supporting our state-of-the-art facilities and equipment with that same spirit of giving. We owe them and their many donors a debt of gratitude.”

January 2016

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New Rehabilitation Pavilion With demolition of the 1960s-era Retter wing underway to clear the site for the new four-story, 74,000 square foot Rehabilitation Pavilion, the landscape at Sarasota Memorial is ever changing.

The Foundation is in the process of communicating what a boon this new facility will be for the community and engaging donors interested in supporting healthcare advances. Every aspect of the new Pavilion has been created with patients in mind from the latest in technology to the colors on the walls. A Breaking Ground ceremony for the new building is planned in February and construction should be complete by December 2016.

coordination of their care. These are often patients with brain or spinal cord injuries, neurological or neuromuscular disorders, traumatic injuries, serious heart conditions, and cancer survivors.”

One of the factors driving the need for a new facility is that the current 30-year-old rehabilitation unit is unable to accommodate some important new technology. That includes a high-tech Bioness Vector Advantage body weight support system, which will be installed along one corridor and allows patients to work with a therapist to traverse its length and negotiate turns safely rather than walking on a treadmill. A wheeled touch screen display lets patients work on eye-hand skills, rotor movement, balance, memory recall, visual perception, visual

The Pavilion will serve as a stand-alone inpatient and

motor ability, and more. “We drew from the best, ev-

outpatient rehabilitation facility with its own entrance

idence-based examples in the industry,” DeCarlo said,

and covered first floor parking and a 44-bed inpatient

“and we looked for equipment that multiple disciplines

unit on the top two floors. The inpatient unit has all pri-

could use with many types of patients.” Even the color

vate rooms and incorporates design features to accom-

schemes were scrutinized and planned with a designer to

modate patients with wheelchairs or other mobility aids

support patient care. Because patients can be in the facil-

and to allow extended family visits, even overnight. Each

ity for a week or more, they wanted colors to be cheery,

floor also has a studio-style apartment that allows pa-

but some brain injury patients require a less stimulating

tients to work on the skills needed for daily tasks as well

environment, which meant colors also had to be subtle.

as an innovative Mobility Garden on the ground floor for patients to practice walking or using mobility aids in situations they are likely to encounter in their daily lives. The apartments will simulate elements of patients’ homes to ensure they can perform activities safely, such as getting in and out of a regular bed, shower or tub, using the oven and stove, doing laundry, navigating around furniture, getting up from the couch, and grabbing the remote to turn on the television.

The dining area where patients will take all three meals – and family members are always welcome to join them – also is designed with rehab in mind. Because dining out is an important part of many people’s social lives, a condiment bar will allow patients the experience of getting up to retrieve items, and there will be a booth to practice sliding in and out of. The Rehabilitation Pavilion also has a gymnasium for physical rehabilitation that includes mock-ups that will bring what they gain

Having a facility with immediate access to all hospital re-

in rehab into situations encountered in daily life. Simu-

sources is a significant advantage for all rehabilitation pa-

lated grocery shelves enable patients to gain function-

tients should they ever need medical attention, and it has

al experience with reaching, muscle strength, balance

other advantages, too. “Our inpatient unit accommodates

and vision. Likewise, they can practice getting into and

some of the most complex cases from a medical and reha-

out of a mock up of a car. “This will be a safe place for

bilitative standpoint,” said Maria DeCarlo, Vice President

patients to practice their skills,” DeCarlo said. “We’ll

of Rehabilitative and Post-Acute Services for Sarasota Me-

even have a mock up of a mobile home entry, which

morial. “Because the facility is connected directly to the

requires managing stairs, a screen door, and the exteri-

hospital on two floors, it facilitates interaction with the in-

or door in a very tight space. It may not be sexy, but it’s

terdisciplinary team working with patients and helps with

really important to our patients.”

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The Foundation continues to look at ways the community and patients can be better served with the new Pavilion. “A lot of work has gone into training nurses, staff, and clinicians who all have had a hand in design-

Mobility Garden

ing what is best for the patient. Ensuring that patients have the proficiency to get back out on the road is another identified need, and we are considering adding an automotive simulator that patients can test drive before actually getting behind the wheel,” Quarles said.

“Healthcare technology changes so rapidly, and with the new Rehabilitation Pavilion, there are many ways for interested donors to get involved including some significant naming opportunities. We’ll continually be looking for the best and fastest ways to help patients safely engage again with daily life.”

When someone begins rehabilitation, it really doesn’t matter whether it was due to a serious illness or trauma, a joint

The current rehabilitation unit will be converted into

replacement, or because of a weekend warrior mishap, the

patient rooms as Sarasota Memorial’s need for accom-

goal is always the same. Everyone is on a path to get back to

modations continues to expand through pressures of a growing population and demand for its highly advanced care, particularly in areas of critical need, such

the chores and pleasures that make up their daily lives as fully and as quickly as possible. The meticulous attention to detail that has gone into Sarasota Memorial Health Care System’s new Rehabilitation Pavilion is even more evident in its Mobility

as strokes, cardiac and neurological care. It is the area’s

Garden, which is designed to ensure patients are ready to take

only designated comprehensive stroke center and the

up those activities confidently and safely.

only Sarasota County hospital that provides maternity,

The Mobility Garden is on the ground floor of the Rehabil-

pediatric care, and a neonatal intensive care unit. Sara-

itation Pavilion and will give patients the experience of walking

sota Memorial is the only public and only not-for-profit hospital here, and it has considered those factors as it expands to meet evolving needs, such as the launch of

or using a wheelchair on a range of surfaces as well as practice with a variety of outdoor activities. “The purpose of the Mobility Garden is two-fold. We wanted to create a peaceful place for patients and families to go get some fresh air,” said

its trauma center for which the state granted provision-

Maria DeCarlo, Vice President of Rehabilitative and Post-Acute

al approval in May. “We are a public hospital and want

Services. “It also gives patients with a walking aid, a prosthetic

to make sure we are doing our part to ensure people

limb, or a wheelchair the opportunity to learn on all surfaces

in the community get the care they need at the highest

and angles. Since it rains a lot in Florida, we can wet the sur-

level possible,” said Sarasota Memorial Associate Chief Nursing Officer Jean Lucas.

New Trauma Center With more than 100,000 visits per year in its two Emergency Care Centers and another 80,000 visits in its urgent care center, Sarasota Memorial is one of

faces. People also can get in raised potting beds to plant or weed. They tell us all the time that these things are important to them. It tells them they are back to their lives and not a patient any more.”

In addition to learning to navigate a variety of uneven surfaces like a wooden deck, grass, gravel, sidewalks, flagstone, and pavers, there is an arched wooden bridge and stairs. Therapists assist patients up inclines, down ramps, and around ob-

the largest emergency departments on Florida’s Gulf

stacles. They can practice getting mail from the mailbox, using

Coast making the pursuit of a trauma designation a nat-

a hose to water the garden, or practicing on the putting green.

ural next step. In its first six months of operation, the

The Mobility Garden also serves as a spot where patients not

trauma center saw 888 patients, a significantly higher

only can enjoy visits from family and friends, but their canine

number than anticipated. “These numbers validate the

companions as well.

opening of a trauma center here,” Lucas said. “The inJanuary 2016

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Rehabilitation Pavilion

• Construction of the $50 million, 74,000-square-foot Rehabilitation Pavilion is slated to be complete in December 2016.

• When complete, the 4-story Pavilion will connect on two floors to the south wing of the hospital. The ground floor will consist of covered parking with a dedicated entrance/drop off and a mobility garden.

• Level 2 will house outpatient services and administrative offices; Levels 3-4 will be a 44-bed inpatient unit with all private rooms.

• In the mobility garden, therapy patients will be able to reduce their risk of falls by practicing walking and using a wheelchair on different uneven surfaces, navigating up inclines, down ramps and around obstacles.

They can even try their hand at a custom putting green.

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January 2016

vestment was definitely needed.” Eight board certified surgeons with advanced training in trauma are on board as is a new orthopedic traumatologist who specializes in complex trauma injury repair, which can result from motor vehicle accidents and falls – the two most common reasons people come to the trauma center.

Residency Program Sarasota Memorial’s vision for the future is to train the next generation of doctors and continue to attract top-notch physicians to Sarasota through its recently launched three-year Internal Residency program with Florida State University College of Medicine as its institutional sponsor. “We are experiencing a physician shortage in Florida, and at the same time, we graduate more medical students here than there are residency programs for them and most residents practice where they complete their residency,” said Dr. Steve Taylor, Chief Medical Operations Officer.

Sarasota Memorial has hired Dr. Wilhelmine Wiese-Rometsch, who is highly experienced in graduate medical education, as the residency program’s founding director. The program is on track to complete the accreditation process, and once approved, can begin accepting 13 residents annually for the three-year program starting in July 2017, Wiese-Rometsch said. As part of their training, residents will do inpatient and outpatient rotations in general medicine, cardiology, pulmonology, infectious disease, gastroenterology, critical care and other subspecialties. They also will gain experience in the hospital’s outpatient medical clinics. Having residents on board will help the hospital with its desire to expand outpatient clinics into underserved areas like North Port and Newtown, Taylor said. “All of this is part of Sarasota Memorial’s strategic plan. We are getting bigger all the time and adding services like the trauma center and Rehabilitation Pavilion,” he said. “We have the infrastructure in place for our evolution into a regional referral center. Undertaking all of this is part of our mission.”

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The Sarasota Garden Club Presents

Friday, February 12, 2016 | 11 AM – 2 PM Luncheon featuring Guest Speaker Fashion Designer/Artist S ​ igrid Olsen and fashions by Dillard’s at University Town Center The Hyatt Regency Ballroom, 1000 Boulevard of the Arts Admission: $45 For reservations call 941.955.0875 or visit The Sarasota Garden Club at 1131 Blvd. of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236 www.SarasotaGardenClub.org Photos by Rick Benitez at The Ringling’s Ca ‘d Zan

Bright Day Home Healthcare Bright Day was founded on the principle that caring – both for employees and clients – not only makes a difference in the quality of care provided, but in the quality of people’s lives.

H

aving worked for one of the largest home

healthcare

agencies

in

the

area for 12 years, CEO/Administrator Bonti Burgess founded Bright Day

on a track record of operational excellence and an understanding that consistency of caregiving, responsiveness, and accountability are paramount for client satisfaction. “There is a big need for home healthcare here with so many people going through difficult life circumstances who need someone to help them and guide them,” Burgess says. “No other company in town cares about clients and caregivers the way Bright Day does.”

Accredited by the Joint Commission, which has the most rigorous accreditation program, Bright Day provides a full range of home healthcare from skilled nursing to home health aides and companions. As a service to clients, the agency also helps clients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system by providing long-term care insurance claims services. Skilled nursing services can range from

wound care, medication set-up, and care for stroke, dementia, and Parkinson’s patients to round-the-clock nursing care if needed.

Knowing that clients also may need assistance with day to day living, Burgess offers help with bathing, doctors visits, shopping and errands, meal preparation, and social interaction such as playing cards or other games and just plain conversation. Because Bright Day has employees as opposed to a nurse registry that uses independent contractors, in-home nursing care is under the supervision of a registered nurse. All employees are backgroundchecked and covered by the agency’s liability and worker’s compensation insurance so the client does not assume those risks. “Clients can feel safe and secure that they are being taken care of by the right kind of organization,” Burgess says.

Bright Day helps clients throughout Sarasota County wherever they may need its services. Employees help individuals in their homes or apartments, independent and assisted living centers, and hospitals or rehabilitation centers whether that means physical assistance or providing companionship to those who otherwise would have to be alone.

One of Burgess’ goals is to provide consistency of care and satisfy clients’ desire to retain the same caregivers rather than having a constant turnover. Accountability also is a must. Burgess has instituted a variety of systems to assure reliability, such as a clock in/clock out system to ensure caregivers arrive and depart on schedule.

“Having worked at a large home healthcare agency for so many years, I thought it would be rewarding to create an agency where I could put into practice the opportunities I saw for providing exceptional care,” she says.

“Being a local company, not a franchise, means that we set policies and practices to meet the needs people have here in our own community.” More information about Bright Day Home Healthcare is available by calling 941.955.8900 or visiting brightday.care.

HARNESSING OUR

HEALING & REGENERATIVE

POWERS

By Sue Cullen | Photos by Nancy Guth

Dawning on the horizon of medical advancements are therapies with potent healing potential whose benefits have the power to span disciplines as diverse as hair restoration and orthopedics. These therapies harness the power and versatility of the human body to regenerate damaged tissue, accelerate healing, reactivate hair follicles, heal wounds, and alleviate pain.

Working at the leading edge of these advance-

over the past eight years that concentrates healing

ments are Joseph Greco, PhD, PA/C and Jonathan

factors in a patient’s blood in a very purified form.

Greco M.D. of Greco Medical Group in Sarasota

“We see great results in many areas of joint regen-

(1990 Main Street, Sarasota; 941.952.3300; www.

eration, such as arthritis, chronic pain and sports

grecohairrestoration.com and www.jointpainUSA.

injuries, but probably the most dramatic happen in

com). “This is a regenerative medicine practice.

the knee. We have even helped people who were

We use patients’ own cells for various regenera-

scheduled for knee replacement,” says Dr. Jon,

tive purposes including hair, cosmetics, pain, and

who is board certified in internal medicine and

orthopedics,” says Dr. Joe, who is recognized in-

clinical lipidology. “One New York City firefighter

ternationally for pioneering natural hair restoration

had six surgeries and didn’t want another despite

techniques and nonsurgical hair rejuvenation.

the fact that he was in agony because his knee

“The treatments we use are the safest and most

had degenerated to bone on bone. We treated him

adaptable that we have today. They harness our

with a series of injections and, five years later, he

own immune systems, and we are getting amazing

is still pain free.” Although Greco Medical Group

results in many areas.”

was able to treat such an advanced case successfully, he encourages people to receive treatment

78

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Greco Medical Group has helped a wide range

in the early stages and perhaps postpone the need

of patients using patented proprietary technology

for surgery indefinitely.

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January 2016

January 2016

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79

Dr. Jon also was able to help former NFL Coach

Dr. Jon, who left a successful internal medicine/

Jeremy Bates. Damage from sports injuries had

general practice in Philadelphia after 25 years to

taken its toll on Bates’ knees. He suffered carti-

specialize in regenerative medicine and pain man-

lage damage and had earlier bilateral ACL replace-

agement. “Sometimes I compare PRP to pasta.

ments. The pain was slowing him down. Dr. Jon

There are many different kinds, and not everyone

treated him and two weeks later, he was snow-

makes it well, so it can be like comparing apples

boarding pain-free. A few months later, Bates

and oranges. Others are using 20-year-old tech-

hiked the 2,900 mile Continental Divide Trail from

nology, and we are way beyond that. Right now, it

Mexico to Canada, walking 20 to 30 miles daily

is kind of a Wild West out there with all of the new

with a backpack weighing more than 40 pounds.

treatments. We stay within the FDA guidelines be-

Among many other success stories from Greco

cause we always want to practice good medicine.”

Medical Group, Cytokine Rich Plasma (CRP) therapy totally healed a man’s severely burned hand in

That dedication to the profession and to patients

48 days with no tendon contracture, leaving him

has been instilled over a lifetime. Their father, Dr.

with little scarring and full mobility of his hand

Joseph F. Greco, was a general practitioner and

and fingers. In another case, only three treatments

a pioneer in hair transplantation, founding Greco

healed a wound that wouldn’t close following a

Hair Surgery in 1960. Dr. Joe’s son, Dr. Joseph

cancer surgery even after skin grafts had failed,

Greco III, is a MOHS (Dermatologic) surgeon at

saving a vital 90 year old from an amputation.

UCLA who also does hair transplantation. They are the only three-generation family in the world

The difference in Greco Medical Group’s treat-

doing hair transplantation. “We want to treat peo-

ments rests both in the proprietary technology and

ple by doing it the right way. That’s why we have

also in their experience of knowing exactly where

done the research grant studies, and we also teach

to place the injections. The process works by stim-

physicians from around the world,” Dr. Joe says.

ulating the body’s natural repair mechanisms. Use

“We have trained physicians from 18 countries,

of an individual’s own cells in platelet rich plasma

so we didn’t take the weekend course, we teach

(PRP) for wound healing has been recognized as

the weekend course. There is an art and science

an effective therapy for 20 years. However, they

to how we use cells to treat different conditions,

use an advanced, proprietary form of PRP called

and that takes experience. People have come to us

Cytokine Rich Plasma (CRP) that stimulates the im-

from all 50 states and 70 countries for treatment.”

mune system to promote healing, is more purified and eliminates more blood cells, which can cause

Dr. Joe is recognized internationally for his hair res-

inflammation. This technology also concentrates

toration methodologies, has authored many journal

IRAP and A2M, a recently discovered blood pro-

articles, textbook chapters, lectured internationally,

tein that fights cartilage degeneration and reduces

and has developed surgical instruments and non-sur-

inflammation. Only about 1 percent of regener-

gical biological hair regeneration therapies in use

ative medicine doctors using PRP are doing this.

worldwide. His work has been featured in Vogue, The New York Times, U.S. News & World Report,

80

“If you get a cut and are bleeding, the body realiz-

Men’s Journal, and USA Today and he is on the fac-

es it and goes into a cascade reaction. Cells stick

ulty at George Washington University. He has pio-

together and the blood clots, a scab forms, stem

neered biologic treatments for Alopecia Areata and

cells are triggered and skin regenerates. We iso-

Androgenic Alopecia and these results were includ-

late and concentrate cytokines, those messengers

ed in an international study published in the pres-

in the blood that tell other cells what to do,” says

tigious American Journal of Dermatologic Surgery.

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January 2016

Dr. Jon also was able to help former NFL Coach Jeremy Bates (above). Damage from sports injuries had taken its toll on Bates’ knees. He suffered cartilage damage and had earlier bilateral ACL replacements. The pain was slowing him down. Dr. Jon treated him and two weeks later, he was snowboarding pain-free. A few months later, Bates hiked the 2,900 mile Continental Divide Trail from Mexico to Canada, walking 20 to 30 miles daily with a backpack weighing more than 40 pounds.

Infusing patients’ scalps with the highly concen-

from the patient’s own blood, which speeds

trated proteins, vital structures responsible for hair

healing and promotes hair growth. “We don’t

growth can be stimulated, providing a healthy en-

look at hair transplantation and restoration as

vironment for hair to grow, reducing shedding and

simply cosmetic, we understand that it can be

thickening the hair shaft. This is particularly good

devastating psychologically,” We specialize in

for younger patients because it does not expose

restoring hair in burns, scars, and traumatic hair

them to potential side effects from medication.

loss conditions.

A decade ago, 75 percent of patients were men

The Grecos consider Greco Medical Group a bou-

wanting hair transplantation, but Dr. Joe says to-

tique practice and like to spend about an hour with

day 60 percent are women seeking non-surgical

each patient. “We are family, so we try to treat

hair restoration techniques that have demonstrat-

everybody in the office like family.” Most of their

ed results. Even though this therapy is not appro-

business comes from word of mouth from other

priate for totally bald areas, that is coming, too,

patients who are eager to tell their success stories.

he says. Dr. Joe utilizes automated technology

“Our bodies are so amazing, why look somewhere

for removing individual hair follicles, leaving

else for the answer?” Dr. Jon asks. “We don’t do this

an undetectable donor site, with an infusion of

because we have to. We love it. I’ve never enjoyed

highly concentrated growth and healing factors

medicine as much as I do now.”

January 2016

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Through

A Journey Cancer Care: A Doctor’s Perspective

By Sue Cullen | Photos by Nancy Guth

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A cancer diagnosis ranks very high on the list of things we never want for our loved ones or ourselves. However, should it ever happen, it’s comforting to know this area has a highly experienced, nationally known, and award winning oncologist who has built a large practice based on unwavering care for his patients and always doing what is best for them. The driving force behind this caring approach stems from a compassionate nature forged from his family struggles that were based on the belief of doing the right thing even if it meant paying the ultimate price. As a result, Dr. Steve Mamus, Medical Director of Cancer Center of SarasotaManatee (CCSM), provides cancer care that goes above and beyond by ensuring patients see a doctor, rather than assistants, at every visit and giving them their doctors’ cell phone numbers in case they need them outside office hours.

Dr. Mamus founded CCSM nine years ago on the belief that each individual patient is unique and deserves to be treated as a whole person. CCSM treats all forms of cancer with a personalized treatment plan developed by experienced and highly-credentialed physicians that considers all aspects of a patient’s situation including medical, emotional, financial, and family issues. CCSM is the only cancer center in the area where all doctors are triple board certified in medical oncology, hematology, and internal medicine. Dr. Mamus enjoys the privilege of working with two exceptional colleagues at CCSM, Dr. Arsh Singh in Sarasota and Dr. Manjesh Lingamurthy in Bradenton. Dr. Mamus’ 30 years of experience have taught him that, with a cancer diagnosis, comes an emotional as well as a physical journey.

This knowledge greatly influences how he treats his patients. He also realizes that cancer care is a business and sometimes profitability dictates the treatment of choices made by other clinics even though there may be other, better and/or less expensive options.

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Dr. Mamus is also of the opinion that cancer patients

go, and Minneapolis working with renowned teachers

are particularly vulnerable to being taken advantage of.

in hematology and oncology. While at the University

“We are all about taking care of people. We also tru-

of Minnesota, he was also involved in cutting edge re-

ly care about patients, put their needs first, and make

search in stem cell physiology. Dr. Mamus has been

ourselves available to them. I think that’s the reason we

seeing patients since 1978 and treating cancer patients

have been able to succeed here. Our patients mostly

full time since 1983. Prior to establishing and becom-

come to us by word of mouth from other patients, or

ing medical director of CCSM, he was chief of medical

because they are unhappy with the care they have re-

oncology at M.D. Anderson, Orlando.

ceived elsewhere or they didn’t feel they were treated as individuals,” he says. “One breast cancer patient came to us after not having been seen by her prior cancer doctor for a follow up visit for seven years. This would never happen at CCSM.”

Dr. Mamus has always had a tremendous respect for his Eastern European roots. He and his family have seen first-hand the challenging living conditions. In 2004, Dr. Mamus and his wife, Nancy, adopted two Ukrainian girls, ages five and six. The youngest had

In some cases, Dr. Mamus says he has helped pa-

been diagnosed with leukemia. “My wife is a nurse,

tients who were dropped by other practices because

and we have lived what we believe. We adopted two

they asked to see their doctor rather than an assistant,

girls, and would have taken three. Their life in Donetsk

made a complaint, or simply asked questions about

was less than great. They had both been abandoned

the care they were receiving. “Patients who are an-

and lived in an orphanage that was in major disrepair.

gry about how they have been treated are our second

The youngest spent most of her life in the hospital and

largest referral source,” he added, “and more than 90

was forced to miss meals to get her treatments. People

percent of those who come to us for a second opinion

should realize that Donetsk has largely been destroyed

stay on for treatment.”

recently by Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. Today, both

That approach has earned Dr. Mamus 36 national cancer awards for patient care, research, and teaching including The Best Doctors in America (bestdoctors.com) every year since 1996. He also lends his expertise as a national medical-legal expert on cancer and blood disorders, testifying in cases of product liability, medical malpractice, standard of care, EPA super fund sites, and helping veterans who have developed cancer as a result of exposure to Agent Orange or drinking the water at Camp Lejeune.

Dr. Mamus’ motivation to help others and ensure they are treated fairly and with respect stems from his family history. His father escaped from Ukraine when the Nazis invaded and was fortunate enough to raise his family in the United States. His extended family was not so blessed. Dr. Mamus’ uncle spent 14 years as a political prisoner in Siberia and three close relatives were slain by the KGB prior to and after the Nazi invasion.

Dr. Mamus spoke only Ukrainian until he was school age, but despite a difficult background, he was the first person in his family to graduate from college. What’s more, he graduated from Harvard College on a full scholarship and then went on to complete his medical training in very rigorous programs at Syracuse, Chica-

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January 2016

girls are thriving as juniors at Sarasota High School,” he says. “I have seen so much pain, so much injustice. Out of respect for my parents and those people in my family who did the right thing at the cost of their lives, I feel very strongly that I also must try to do the right thing regardless of the pressure that puts me under sometimes.

I feel a sense of responsibility to take care of people as almost a part of my family, and I want to try to protect them and take care of them in every way.”

National news media, such as the Wall Street Journal, have written about the large disparity in the cost of cancer care across the nation. “On average, if you have lung cancer in North Dakota, the cost of care will be one-quarter of what it is in Sarasota,” he says. “My cost of care is 70 percent below some other large practices in Florida based on claims data going back seven years.

With more than 30 years of experience, I know how to give chemotherapy that is effective and not overdone.

It is sad to say that I have seen patients given a $5,000 drug that is not shown to be more effective than a $10 drug. We care about our patients and try to work with them financially. If someone is told there is only one drug or method of treatment, that raises questions for me and should for the patient.”

“We are all about taking care of people. We also truly care about patients, put their needs first, and make ourselves available to them. I think that’s the reason we have been able to succeed here. Our patients mostly come to us by word of mouth from other patients, or because they are unhappy with the care they have received elsewhere or they didn’t feel they were treated as individuals.”

Dr. Mamus has helped many people who came to him

same time, we place a high value on communication

because they are concerned about, or can’t get an-

and informed consent, and we think it is important for

swers about, the care they are receiving. One of those

our patients to be able to reach their physicians in a

patients was a woman with metastatic breast cancer

timely fashion. If they call, we try to get back to them

who had been receiving a $10,000 course of treat-

the same day,” Dr. Mamus says. If someone is sick,

ment every two weeks for six months, but her tumor

we tell them to come on in, and while we try not to

markers had gone up 10-fold, she was turning yellow,

get behind schedule, if we’re running a little behind,

became diabetic, and her oncologist couldn’t tell her

we find other patients are understanding when we tell

why. As it turns out, the patient was dying, not from

them someone needed to be seen right away.”

her cancer, but rather from liver failure caused by the drug that had been given to her.

CCSM’s mission statement spells out the practice’s patient-centric approach and guides the actions of its

With Dr. Mamus’ expertise and experience in hema-

physicians and staff. “Our mission statement is heart-

tology, CCSM treats patients with blood disorders,

felt. I look at the life I have here compared with my

such as aplastic anemia, myelodysplastic syndromes

relatives who are still in Eastern Europe, and but for

(MDS), acute leukemia and patients who are post bone

the grace of God, that would have been me. I have

marrow transplant that other clinics have told patients

been given the opportunity to do something, and

they can’t treat. CCSM is also the hematology consult-

knowing that gives me a strong sense of responsibili-

ing service for Blake Medical Center’s Trauma Center.

ty to my patients, my family and the community,” Dr.

“Having a large practice and seeing as many patients

Mamus says. “My philosophy is ‘Do what is right, not

as we do gives us a high level of experience. At the

what is easy’.”

January 2016

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JOIN NOW!

S a r a sot a

/

Manatee

Doctors OF DISTINCTION

A Scene Magazine Special SECTION January 2016

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Dr. Alissa Shulman Sovereign Plastic Surgery

Sovereign Plastic Surgery 1950 Arlington Street, Suite 112 Sarasota, FL 34239 941.366.LIPO (5476) sovereignps.com

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Dr. Alissa Shulman is a board certified plastic surgeon and a life-long artist and sculptor. Although she is well known in the community for breast cancer reconstruction, her eye for aesthetics and talent for body contouring (mommy makeovers) is very evident in her happy cosmetic patients. Depending upon the patient’s needs, treatment can take the form of augmentation, reduction, liposuction, tummy tucks, and fat grafting. Because Dr. Shulman is a skilled listener who focuses on what is most beneficial to her patient, she spends time discussing realistic and effective options – even if that means recommending changes in lifestyle rather than surgery. Creating a welcoming office atmosphere is important because Dr. Shulman believes patients should feel better informed after talking with a plastic surgeon rather than feeling as if they’ve been “sold something”.

Having seen many gimmicks come and go with little, or no, lasting results, Dr. Shulman relies on proven techniques that have been refined over time. One of those techniques for which she has built an excellent reputation for her skill is fat grafting.

Unwanted fat is removed from an area and used for butt lifts or to increase breast size in place of implants and can add fullness to the cleavage area. Dr. Shulman also offers non-surgical options that have proven effective, including CoolSculpting ®, an FDA-cleared, noninvasive fat reduction treatment, which is a good option for targeted problem areas and for those who can’t afford “downtime” or who are not good candidates for surgery.

Dr. Shulman showed early interest in art – painting a horse at age two and cutting and sewing at four. In elementary school, she was fascinated, not squeamish, about dissecting her first frog – leading to her interest in anatomy and ultimately surgery. As an undergraduate at SUNY Buffalo, she pursued both her passions with a double major in anatomy and fine arts before completing medical school also at SUNY Buffalo.

Currently, Dr. Shulman is serving as Sarasota Memorial Hospital’s first female Chief of Surgery. She is also President of the Sarasota County Medical Society and the only woman on the board of the Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Stephen C. Culp, M.D., FACC, FSCAI Kenneth D. Henson, M.D., FACC Culp-Henson Private Cardiology and Internal Medicine

The highly personalized approach to patient care that is at the heart of Culp-Henson Private Cardiology and Internal Medicine propels the success of this top-tier concierge practice.

As cardiologists and internal medicine specialists with multiple certifications by the American Board of Internal Medicine, the two physicians utilize a comprehensive approach to manage nearly every aspect of their patients’ primary and advanced healthcare needs. The practice size is limited to eliminate the time constraints increasingly present in traditional practices. Patients appreciate seeing their doctors without waiting, not feeling hurried through their visits, and having their physician’s mobile phone number for direct assistance. For the comfort of their patients, Culp-Henson recently acquired a more spacious, modern office conveniently located near Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

Office services include echocardiography, stress testing, vascular imaging, pacemaker checks, heart rhythm monitoring, and blood drawing. While true emergencies require hospital treatment, the goal of concierge medicine is to keep patients out of the hospital whenever possible. When hospitalization is required, Drs. Culp and Henson serve as their patients’ attending physician, so that patients are not assigned to hospitalist physicians. For complex problems, requiring expertise from other specialists, both doctors serve as the primary medical advocates for their patients. This enhances continuity of care among medical specialists and the efficient implementation of medical treatment plans. This offers peace of mind to many patients, including busy professionals, those managing multiple medical conditions, and seniors who are interested in maintaining an independent lifestyle.

Both physicians are highly experienced and credentialed.

Dr. Henson is board certified in internal medicine and cardiovascular diseases. He trained in general cardiology at the University of Florida, and in interventional cardiology at Georgetown University. He is a former Chief of Cardiology Current Address: 3830 Bee Ridge Road, Suite 201 Sarasota, FL 34233

at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Dr. Culp also holds multiple board certifications. He received his undergraduate degree from Yale University, his medical degree from the University

Address as of March 2016: 1250 Tamiami Trail, Suite 201 Sarasota, FL 34239

of Vermont, and his postgraduate training in internal medicine,

941.924.4729 culphenson.com

Duke prior to moving to Sarasota, and now holds an adjunct

cardiovascular diseases, and interventional cardiology at Duke University. He held a full-time faculty appointment at appointment as an Assistant Consulting Professor of Medicine.

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Shepherd Frenchman, DMD Michelle Scala, DMD Lakewood Ranch Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

Dr. Shepherd Frenchman and Dr. Michelle Scala have built a successful dental practice by providing worldclass quality for patients who can always expect to be treated gently and with compassion. Dr. Frenchman and Dr. Scala have been in private practice in Bradenton since 2003 and, in 2014, opened Lakewood Ranch Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, a new, state-of-the art office in the heart of Lakewood Ranch. Knowing that a visit to the dentist can be a challenging experience for many patients whether they are in for check-ups, restorative procedures or full smile makeovers, the new office was designed to create a soothing environment. Thoughtful touches are everywhere, including beautiful nature views, warm aromatherapy towels, and headphones for patients to listen to their favorite music during procedures. Sedation options also are offered to make patients as comfortable as possible.

8430 Enterprise Circle, Suite 100 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941.907.4777 lakewoodranchsmiles.com

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With rapid advancements transforming both restorative and cosmetic dentistry, the new office has been equipped with leading edge technology such as 3-D imaging for enhanced diagnosis and precision placement for dental implants. They also offer the latest in dental materials, including full ceramic crowns that have truer color matching and a translucent appearance. The same high standards also apply to the staff, and only highly experienced dental hygienists and assistants are part of their team. Restoring the “infrastructure” of the mouth can be beneficial in so many ways – from improved functionality and well-documented health benefits to the improved appearance of a dental facelift – that a strong emphasis is placed on educating patients and helping them make informed decisions based on their individual circumstances.

Dr. Frenchman and Dr. Scala are both native Floridians, have strong educational backgrounds, and a commitment to continuing education. They have been in practice 17 years and earned their Doctorates of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. He received a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of South Florida, and she has a bachelor’s degree in biology/ biochemistry from the University of Miami. Both have actively supported community nonprofits, including Tidewell Hospice, Take Stock in Children, Lakewood Ranch Humane Society, and local schools.

Mark V. Walter M.D. Stem Cell Orthopedic Specialist

1250 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 304 Sarasota, FL 34239 941.955.4325 regenortho.com

Sixteen years ago, Dr. Mark Walter left Canada and migrated to sunny Sarasota. He was in search of warmer climes and the opportunity to practice an advanced, healing type of medicine. Today, he is one of Florida’s top Stem Cell Orthopedic Specialists and a pioneer of this specialty in Sarasota. He is excited about the stem cell revolution and how it helps improve the quality of life without surgery for those suffering from certain orthopedic problems.

Dr. Walter grew up Montreal and, in 1980, graduated with Honors from McGill University Medical School, known as the Harvard of the North. His original training was in family practice specializing in sports medicine and executive health. For five years he developed and ran a Senior Executive Clinic for Senators, members of Parliament, and senior military officers at the National Defense Medical Center in Ottawa, Canada.

Dr. Walter found his calling with Regenerative Orthopedics while doing medical mission work in Honduras with a group from the University of Wisconsin. Here he learned from, and collaborated with, the best regenerative injection teachers in the world. Over the last 15 years he has been dedicated to the specialty of regenerative orthopedics and helped more than 10,000 patients with his injection techniques. For the last four years, he has combined these injection skills and expertise with leading-edge stem cell technology enabling him to achieve an 85 percent success rate with such common problems as knee and hip arthritis, back pain, rotator cuff, sports injuries, and many other serious joint problems – without surgery and with minimal downtime. Once the damaged or degenerated joints have been successfully regenerated, the results tend to be long lasting.

Dr. Walter and his wife, Susie, have called Sarasota home for the last 15 years. He credits his wife in large part for his successful practice over those years. As his nurse, she has run the operations at his practice with skill and wisdom. Dr. Walter is convinced that stem cells are the medicine of the future and will be a “game-changer” in orthopedics and many other fields of medicine. He looks forward to helping Sarasota stay at the forefront of that wave and offers free seminars every month to help educate people on the exciting new field of Stem Cell Orthopedics.

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Rebecca Cohen, M.D. Rebecca S. Cohen, M.D., LLC

Rebecca S. cohen, M.D., LLc

Rebecca S.Suite cohen, M.D., LLc 3665 Bee Ridge Road, 306 Sarasota, Florida 34233

3665 Bee Ridge Road, Suite 306 Sarasota, 34233Suite 306 3665 Bee Florida Ridge Road,

Sarasota, FL 34233 941.404.0545 drrebeccacohen.com

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Dr. Rebecca Cohen has structured her psychiatry practice to reflect support, collaboration and assurance. She works with patients to create positive change in their lives. Dr. Cohen understands that psychiatric symptoms cause anxiety, and she has created an experience for her patients to feel safe knowing that she is an ally in the journey to wellness. In addition to psychiatric evaluation and medication management, she treats a broad range of symptoms and disorders including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, ADHD, insomnia, and eating disorders.

Dr. Cohen allows ample time for her patients to ensure that they feel heard. It was this fascination with people’s stories, coupled with faculty recognition of her demeanor while she was in medical school, which led her to pursue a career in adult psychiatry. Dr. Cohen also believes in patient education and takes a multidisciplinary team approach with a variety of psychotherapy options, and, knowing that some medications can foster weight gain, provides referrals to a trusted nutritionist.

Dr. Cohen’s goals are to provide evidence-based care and to make patients’ experience as convenient and comfortable as possible so they feel well cared for. Even her office reflects Dr. Cohen’s impulse to nurture patients with an elegant, spa-like feel that still is reassuringly professional. She feels strongly that patients should not be sent from the office to manage by themselves. Although today’s medications are much easier to take, Dr. Cohen’s office phone is a cell phone so patients can reach out to her at any time with questions about side effects or other concerns.

Dr. Cohen conducted research at the Harvard Medical School Neurology Department and received clinical training at Tufts University, Boston University School of Medicine, Hennepin County Medical Center, and as Chief Psychiatry Resident at Georgetown Hospital in Washington, D.C. While working with a large private practice in Boston, she helped families and friends of the victims following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack. Although busy, she has always had a strong personal conviction regarding community involvement and helps JFCS with its broad mission of service and supports her children’s schools.

David Sax, M.D. University Park Dermatology

Fifteen years ago, Dr. David Sax opened University Park Dermatology and Medical Spa to provide a broad range of medical dermatology and cosmetic treatments to help patients of all ages have healthy, beautiful skin.

Whether treating a teen with acne, helping a skin cancer patient with highly-precise Mohs surgery, or performing cosmetic procedures, Dr. Sax’s goal is to combine the latest technology and proven techniques for a great outcome. The practice offers a broad range of cosmetic options including Botox ®, injectable fillers, and lasers.

An exciting addition to the practice is CoolSculpting ®, an FDA-approved, non-invasive fat reduction treatment.

The procedure requires no downtime, and Dr. Sax is the first in the area to offer a new attachment to reduce fat in the chin and neck area.

University Park Dermatology also offers a full array of top-of-the-line lasers for a variety of treatments.

The Vectus® Hair Removal Laser allows rapid removal of chest and back hair, dramatically reducing the time it takes to remove hair from larger areas with relative comfort for the patient. The Cynosure 1540 fractional laser has provided excellent results in improving the appearance of acne and surgical scars as well as stretch marks. A comprehensive medical spa also adds services including HydraFacials, microneedling, and chemical peels to address additional cosmetic needs.

As someone who struggled with acne as an adolescent, Dr. Sax empathizes with his patients, which also reinforces his commitment to remain on the leading edge of medical and cosmetic dermatology. Dr. Sax uses digital dermatoscopy during examinations to help monitor and assess lesions suspicious for skin cancer. Another technology available in the office, MelaFind ®, uses an optical sensor as a non-invasive way to examine moles and determine the risk of melanoma without requiring a biopsy. Dr. Sax is a board certified dermatologist who, along with completing a highly regarded dermatology residency program at the University of Michigan, has an 8451 Shade Avenue Suite 205 Sarasota, FL 34243 941.360.2477 upderm.com

additional year of training in Mohs surgical techniques.

He has been named among Castle Connolly’s Top Doctors for the past four years.

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John Paul (J.P.) Gniady, M.D. Silverstein Institute

1901 Floyd Street Sarasota, FL 34239 941.366.9222 earsinus.com

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When Dr. John Paul (J.P.) Gniady joined the Silverstein Institute three years ago, he brought a level of training and technology in laryngology that has been sought out by celebrities worldwide. Dr. Gniady is a board certified otolaryngologist specializing in disorders of the throat, voice, airway, and swallowing. He is sought out by professional singers and actors, teachers, doctors and attorneys, for whom voice is critical to their livelihood, because of the leading edge techniques he learned during fellowship training at Harvard’s Massachusetts General Hospital Voice Center. While there, he worked with Dr. Steven Zeitels, renowned internationally for his successful treatment of stars such as Adele, Stephen Tyler, Roger Daltry, and Dick Vitale.

The advanced techniques pioneered by Dr. Zeitels, including extremely precise endoscopic angiolytic laser treatments, have proven highly effective in healing delicate vocal cords. As well as treating voice issues associated with aging, benign masses, nodules, cysts, polyps and cancers of the vocal cords, Dr. Gniady helps patients with vocal cord paralysis, spasmodic dysphonia, and voice and swallowing disorders associated with Parkinson’s disease. He empathizes with patients who have these difficulties, and enjoys being able to help them, because these issues impact socialization and can cause people to avoid important social interactions like going out to dinner. Dr. Gniady emphasizes the importance of early treatment, which is particularly critical with cancer diagnoses. He encourages those with voice issues lasting more than a few weeks, or which disrupt their lives or work, to see a doctor right away.

Dr. Gniady initially was interested in a career in healthcare policy and decided it would he helpful to attend medical school to gain better insight. Instead, he found he enjoyed the clinical side of medicine. Dr. Gniady received his medical degree from Louisiana State University School of Medicine and his residency training at Temple University Hospital before completing his Harvard fellowship. Having grown up steeped in the musical ambiance of New Orleans, and as a musician himself, Dr. Gniady naturally was drawn to laryngology and still enjoys both the field’s fascinating science and the ability to help improve his patients’ lives.

Dr. David Mobley, Dr. Braun Graham, Dr. Scott Engel & Dr. Brian Derby Sarasota Plastic Surgery Center

Twenty-five years of leadership in plastic surgery. Four accomplished specialists. One dedicated professional group. No wonder Sarasota Plastic Surgery Center rates as one of the region’s premier practices for plastic surgery. Board certified in plastic surgery, Dr. Graham has been honored as one of America’s Best Doctors since 1996. Dr. Mobley has been designated a Castle Connolly Top Doctor in plastic surgery since 2007 and is triple board certified in plastic surgery, facial plastic surgery, and otolaryngology.

Another Castle Connolly Top Doctor, Dr. Scott Engel, is board certified in plastic surgery and serves on the renowned clinical faculty at The Cleveland Clinic. Most recently, Dr. Brian Derby, with intensive specialty training in oculoplastic and aesthetic facial, breast and body surgery, joined the practice. The practice puts its emphasis on attentive patient care and aesthetically-pleasing, natural results for face, breast and body procedures. “We adhere to the ‘gold standard’ of well-researched and proven techniques that deliver the best results,” says Dr. Mobley.

Dr. Graham notes why the best results are natural. “We don’t want people to notice the work our patients had done, just that our patients look vital, refreshed and younger.”

In addition to providing patients with a more youthful look via facial plastic surgery, the doctors’ skills encompass procedures including liposuction, labiaplasties, tummy tucks, breast and body contouring, as well as minimally invasive and nonsurgical procedures.

Sarasota Plastic Surgery includes its own modern surgical center that is state-licensed and federally certified for patient safety, privacy, and convenience. “We essentially have 2255 South Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34239 941.366.8897 sarasotaplasticsurgery.com

it all,” says Dr. Derby, “surgery center, doctor’s offices, medical spa, skin care center all under one roof. No one else in Sarasota comes close to this.” The one goal for these four professionals? Dr. Engel sums it up, “We are dedicated to performing safe, reliable procedures with natural results, making people feel wonderful about themselves.”

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Andrew Marlowe, M.D. Marlowe & Marrs Ear, Nose and Throat

Dr. Andrew Marlowe enjoys connecting with patients of all ages and helping them with their disorders of the ear, nose and throat. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Marlowe gains particular satisfaction in correctly diagnosing and resolving chronic issues for which patients have been treated – sometimes for many years – without success. His practice, Marlowe & Marrs Ear, Nose and Throat, treats conditions ranging from dizziness, ear ringing, migraines, balance problems, ear infections, allergies, sinusitis to surgeries and procedures for sinus, snoring, sleep apnea, and tumors of the thyroid, head and neck.

Dr. Marlowe’s audiology staff at the Center for Hearing, assess and collaborate with him in providing a complete range of solutions for the diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss, dizziness, and tinnitus.

Solutions

include

surgery,

hearing

aids,

cochlear

implants and other implantable devices. With a degree in electrical and biomedical engineering, combined with his medical training and experience, Dr. Marlowe is uniquely qualified to help children and adults with hearing loss. His intent is to provide a comprehensive practice that can serve patients’ needs with both compassion and technology, for instance having an inhouse mini-CAT scan.

Dr. Marlowe is board certified in Otolaryngology– Head and Neck Surgery. After receiving his undergraduate degree from Boston University College of Engineering and finishing his medical degree and surgical internship from the Medical College of Pennsylvania, he completed an auditory electrophysiology research fellowship and Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery residency at Temple University. Dr. Marlowe also has post graduate

MARLOWE & MARRS

training in craniofacial/skull base surgery and Otology/ Neurotology.

Dr. Marlowe’s strives to provide a positive experience

5432 Bee Ridge Road, Suite 150 Sarasota, Florida 34233 941.379.3277 marlowemd.com

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as a center of excellence in patient care. Dr. Marlowe works hard to advocate for his patients, and is proud of the successful outcomes he achieves for them. He considers it a privilege to be their physician.

Corey Warrenbrand, D.M.D. Complete Dentistry

Dr. Corey Warrenbrand, owner of “Complete Dentistry” brings 24 years of experience, extensive training, and an artist’s touch to his general and cosmetic dentistry practice. As part of his commitment to patients, Dr. Warrenbrand believes in providing state-of-the-art technology such as digital x-rays, CAD/CAM restorations and laser dentistry. Dr. Warrenbrand sees patients of all ages and provides a wide variety of preventative and restorative services as well as oral sedation. He offers cosmetic options from teeth whitening to full smile makeovers. He also offers sameday crowns using computer aided design and on-site production rather than waiting for the crown to be produced by an outside lab.

Dr. Warrenbrand places a high value on providing each patient a good experience.

His schedule is designed to accommodate ample one-on-one time and partnering with his patients to develop a treatment plan with which they are comfortable. Dr. Warrenbrand values the connection he and his team create with patients. His goal is to exceed patients’ expectations and build trust in order to make them feel at ease and establish a lasting relationship. Dr. Warrenbrand finds satisfaction in seeing the metamorphosis from fear and dental disability to smiling with confidence.

Dr. Warrenbrand is a Sarasota native who earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Miami and a Doctorate of Medical Dentistry degree from Boston University. Dr. Warrenbrand stays in tune to the continually changing and progressing dental profession and believes in growing and changing with his field. He has had extensive post-graduate training at the prestigious Dawson Academy and Pankey Institute to perfect the intricacies of bite stability and comprehensive dental care.

2225 Stickney Point Sarasota, FL 34231 941.925.2225 completedentistry.org

Dr. Warrenbrand has a passion for artistry and applies these talents to his dentistry, enabling him to produce beautiful smiles that are not only aesthetic but functional as well. When he’s not helping patients he enjoys fishing, golfing, traveling, and spending time with his wife of 24 years, Stefanie, and their two daughters.

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Jonathan Yunis MD FACS Center for Hernia Repair

CENTER FOR

HERNIA R E P A I R 2800 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34329 941.953.5917 centerforherniarepair.com

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Hernia repair is a common surgery, but it may not be quite as “routine” as some people think. As a specialist in hernia surgery and abdominal wall reconstruction, Dr. Jonathan Yunis is passionate about designing perfect solutions for patients that optimize recovery, minimize future recurrences, and maximize postoperative cosmetic appearance. Performing more than 650 hernia and abdominal wall surgeries per year has provided him with extensive experience and knowledge of what works best in a wide variety of circumstances. Nationally, about 25 percent of patients are unhappy with their groin hernia repair because of early reoccurrence, infection, or persistent postoperative pain. This has driven him to quest for perfection in his work. Patients from all over the country seek Dr Yunis’ expertise after they have had surgical complications or recurrence of their hernia from surgeons elsewhere.

In addition to hernia repair, Dr. Yunis also offers, as appropriate, a combined abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) when performing complex abdominal wall reconstruction that has produced excellent cosmetic results. Although he is a surgeon, Dr. Yunis believes in educating patients about all of their options, including those that are nonsurgical. In some cases, watchful waiting (avoiding surgery) may be the best option.

Dr. Yunis is a board certified surgeon who has been in practice for 25 years, spending the past 15 years specializing in hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction. He received his medical education at the State University of New York, and subsequently did his residency in General Surgery followed by a Vascular Surgical fellowship. Mastering the intricate and exacting requirements of vascular surgery provide him with significant technical advantages. He always had a special interest in hernia surgery, which led him to begin focusing his practice more and more in that area. Today, Dr. Yunis continues to pursue and offer the latest in open, robotic, and laparoscopic techniques and seeks out opportunities to continue honing his skills by engaging with leading hernia experts throughout the nation and the world.

J. David Holcomb, M.D. Joshua Kreithen, M.D.

Holcomb – Kreithen Plastic Surgery and MedSpa

1 S. School Avenue, Suite 800 Sarasota, FL 34237 941.365.8679 sarasota-med.com

Holcomb – Kreithen Plastic Surgery and MedSpa offers advanced aesthetic surgical and non-surgical treatments in a beautiful, state-of-the-art downtown facility with its own in-house operating rooms. Its founding physicians are J. David Holcomb, M.D. (Double Board Certified Facial Plastic and Cosmetic Laser Surgeon) and Joshua Kreithen, M.D. (Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Breast and Body Contouring Specialist).

The practice is renowned for its expertise in facial plastic surgery, plastic surgery of the breasts and body, cosmetic laser surgery and aesthetic skin care. The AAAASF-accredited facility includes a private outpatient ambulatory surgical center. With its advanced laser center, the MedSpa offers numerous options for skin rejuvenation and minimally-invasive and non-surgical contouring of the face and body, and placing an emphasis on using the latest technologies to facilitate the healing process for a speedier recovery.

Dr. Holcomb is a respected expert and published author in erbium-YAG laser skin resurfacing, plasma skin regeneration, fiber laser surgery of the face and neck and integration of these and other technologies with facial rejuvenation surgery. He co-developed the AccuLift™ laser facial contouring procedure, introducing it several years ago on CBS’ award winning television show “The Doctors”, and then integrated these techniques with aging face surgery (Laser Assisted Facelift).

He is one of the principal investigators for an FDA new drug evaluation study for which patient recruitment begins in early 2016. Dr. Holcomb noted, “It is very rewarding to be able to use new technologies to help patients overcome characteristics that hinder them physically or emotionally.”

Dr. Kreithen is a highly experienced breast and body contouring surgery specialist who frequently performs mommy makeovers and even more technically demanding lower body lift procedures.

“I’ve always loved aesthetics my profession has allowed me to combine this interest with my scientific and technical skills to help people look their best. Whether patients see me for breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, tummy tucks, mommy makeovers, smart liposuction or other procedures, I’m excited for the opportunity to help enhance their lives,” said Dr. Kreithen.

The staff is comprised of an extraordinary group of professionals whose primary goal is to safely empower individuals to reach their full potential. They are committed to treating patients and each other with kindness, compassion and dignity at all times.

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Alison J. Heusner, DMD BayView Dental Associates

Visit bayviewdental.com to find a location near you.

Dr. Heusner is located at: 2477 Stickney Point Rd Ste 109b, Sarasota, FL 34231 941.924.6331

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Born and raised in Sarasota, Dr. Alison Heusner is happy to be practicing dentistry in her hometown with BayView Dental Associates. Dr. Heusner appreciates BayView’s comprehensive approach to dental care, which encompasses preventive, restorative and cosmetic dentistry. She believes BayView’s model of care combines the best of group practice in its six locations with the personalized feel of a private practice. Having worked in a very large practice, Dr. Heusner knows the benefits of being able to collaborate with a community of dentists on complex cases but also understands the importance of giving patients the ability to establish relationships with their own dentists.

Thousands of patients have trusted BayView Dental Associates for 27 years. In addition to check-ups, cleanings and regular periodontal maintenance, BayView also does fillings, crowns, root canals, bridges and dentures along with cosmetic dentistry, including whitening teeth, Invisalign, dental implants and smile makeovers. For Dr. Heusner, the best results come from a personalized approach that encompasses the health of the underlying bone and the cohesive relationship between the teeth and gums. She is a strong advocate for patient involvement and education so that the patients understand their roles in maintaining the success of their treatments. She also focuses on her own continuing education to keep up with new techniques and rapid advancements in materials that are stronger and look more like natural tooth structure.

BayView’s philosophy of team-based care supports Dr. Heusner’s belief in a patientcentric approach that includes collaborating to discuss optimal treatment for patients while keeping care affordable and maximizing dental benefits. The team focuses on patient comfort and addresses concerns by using state-of-the-art 3D digital technology and other visual aids to thoroughly explain recommendations for treatment and follow-up care. Dr. Heusner’s interest in dentistry and providing excellent patient care stems from her positive experiences with a dentist as a child. Following graduation from Sarasota High School, she earned a bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences from the University of Florida and a doctorate in dental medicine from Nova Southeastern University. Her goal is for patients to have the same positive experience that inspired her to become a dentist.

Anthony DiTomaso, M.D. Donald Garrow, M.D., M.S.C.R. Gulf Comprehensive Gastroenterology

Anthony DiTomaso, M.D., Dr. Tony to many of his patients, has more than 20 years of experience as a gastroenterologist. As the founder of Gulf Comprehensive Gastroenterology, it was his vision to have an all-inclusive practice that could treat the vast array of symptoms and illnesses in the field of gastroenterology. Dr. DiTomaso is the company director of colorectal cancer screening and treatment of Barrett’s esophagus. Born in New York City and educated throughout the state of Florida, his experience assures his patients the finest care with a high colon polyp detection rate, a national quality marker for colonoscopy.

Donald Garrow, M.D., M.S.C.R. partnered with Gulf Comprehensive Gastroenterology in 2012 and has seen his star rise quickly. Dr. Garrow performs the entire spectrum of gastroenterology procedures from basic screening colonoscopy and upper endoscopy Diagnostic and Therapeutic Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Practice Limited to Digestive and Liver Diseases General and Minimal Invasive Surgery Specializing in Surgery for Diseases of the Digestive Tract

2061 Englewood Road, Ste 4, Englewood, FL 34223

to the most difficult endoscopic ultrasound and latest endosurgical procedures. Patients who were previously sent out of the area are now treated by Dr. Garrow at the Gulf Comprehensive Surgery Center in Englewood or at one of the five local affiliate hospitals in which he works. Dr. Garrow is a nationally recognized expert on the pancreas, giving lectures around the country regarding the role of the pancreas in digestion. A native of Buffalo, New York, he trained in gastroenterology at the Medical University of South

5741 Bee Ridge Rd., Ste. 320 Sarasota, FL 34233 2061 Englewood Rd., Ste. 4 Englewood, FL 34223 3400 Tamiami Trl., Bldg. 2, Ste. 2E Port Charlotte, FL 33952 941.473.8881 gcgastro.com fdhs.com

Carolina in Charleston alongside many leaders in his field. Both physicians have the highest online review scores for patient satisfaction.

Dr. DiTomaso’s experience coupled with Dr. Garrow’s advanced endoscopic training make their practice a “one stop shop” for all gastrointestinal needs. The two physicians see patients at five area hospitals from Sarasota to Punta Gorda. The state-of-the-art surgery center in Englewood serves as the central hub for their outpatient procedures. Gulf Comprehensive Gastroenterology is a sizable portion of Florida Digestive Health Specialists, a larger collaborative network of more than 30 practicing gastroenterologists along the Gulf Coast.

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Riverchase Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery

Back row from left to right:

Michael Banuchi, PA-C, Joseph Santini, PA-C, Ryan Jawitz, DO, FAOCD, Paul Stevenson, DO, FAOCD, Stefan Adair, MD, FACS Front row from left to right:

Anne McBride, MD, FAAD, Chasie Haupt, PA-C, Rebecca Thompson, ARNP, Denise West, PA-C, Kristin Yunis, ARNP Not pictured:

Charles Rodriguez, MD

1.800.591.3376 riverchasedermatology.com

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Riverchase Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery has built a reputation for comprehensive medical and cosmetic treatments for the hair, skin and nails serving patients of all ages.

Whether it is a child with a rash, someone seeking to look more youthful, or a skin cancer patient, the standard of care is to treat everyone as a valued member of the family.

That means providing service that others don’t, including one-day Mohs surgery for skin cancer removal. With an on-site lab, margins can be examined immediately; meaning all of the cancer is removed the same day as surgery. Riverchase Dermatology has four highly skilled, board-certified plastic surgeons on staff. It is the only area practice offering Mohs skin cancer surgeries repaired by a plastic surgeon in the office the same day, providing optimal cosmetic outcomes. Riverchase also offers Superficial Radiation Therapy for skin cancers; a non-surgical treatment option that delivers excellent cosmetic results.

As a family-friendly, full service practice, dermatologists help patients with acne, complex skin conditions like psoriasis, rosacea and eczema, removal of warts, growths and moles, and skin cancer treatments. In addition, Riverchase plastic surgeons are highly skilled at facial plastic surgery, breast revision and reconstruction, liposuction, and full body lifts. A range of cosmetic dermatology services are available, including injectables such as Botox ® Cosmetic and Juvederm ®. Also offered are treatments for acne scars, age spots, fine lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, and excess fat. Riverchase now offers CoolSculpting ®, a non-invasive fat reduction procedure that produces slimming results.

In keeping with its full service options, Riverchase offers NeoGraft™ hair transplantation, which transplants individual hair follicles from the donor site to the balding or thinning area, eliminating the linear scarring of other methods with faster recovery times. Riverchase Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery was founded in Naples, Fla., 15 years ago by Andrew Jaffe, M.D., FAAD, and has since grown to 17 locations, including five in Sarasota, Venice, and North Port. Dr. Jaffe’s goal was to create a practice that is located conveniently, allows patients to get in to see their dermatologists quickly, and always treats them as if they were members of the family.

Uniting For Good

By Julie Milton

News of mass shootings and terrorism is happening much too frequently these days inundating our lives with so much evil, hatred, and fear. Now, more than ever, the need for happy, positive messages and connecting with good people is so important. It has been widely reported that people who are happy and positive, and stay connected to others generally tend to live longer and healthier lives.

So what are some options to stay positive, happy and be more connected? Well despite the fact that some of the evil happening in the world is due to warped religious ideology, churches and spiritual campuses remain important gathering places to connect with others and experience the good will and love that thankfully still dominates our world.

I recently had the pleasure of meeting Venice native Reverend Robin Reiter, Senior Minister at Unity of Venice. According to Robin, “Unity offers practical, spiritual teachings that empower abundant, positive and meaningful living.” While this is not an endorsement of Unity, or any religion, or house of worship, I found myself intrigued listening to Robin’s passion as she shared stories of the growth of Unity, the uplifting services conducted each week, the sense of purpose and belonging that blossoms within those attending Unity services, and the care she and all Unity members have about the Unity campus, its restoration, preservation, and overall success.

The peaceful and calming grounds of Unity also tell a story. “They are a beautiful place for contemplation, connection and celebration often used for small to mid-sized weddings,” Robin told me. She walked me through a labyrinth built in 2010. She explained it was uncared for during the first year until Unity member Mary Badeau made it her mission to restore the labyrinth and make it even more special. Mary spent

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40 days on her hands and knees digging dirt and on day 21 of her mission she was joined by her friend Susanne. Today, the path of this unique labyrinth is filled with colorful plants interspersed with objects of spiritual meaning to Unity members – crystals, stone animals, candles, chimes, fairies, and plaques dotting every section left there by some who walked the labyrinth. According to Robin, the labyrinth is a metaphor for the journey of life and is open all the time to anyone who wishes to take a peaceful, prayerful walk.

Also on the campus are a lovely gazebo where one can sit peacefully, and a Peace Pole, which was dedicated in 2013 and is part of the Peace Pole Project (www.peacepoleproject.org). It seems there are tens of thousands of Peace Poles in 180 countries and on every continent around the world dedicated as monuments of peace. Each pole is inscribed with the words “May Peace Prevail on Earth”. Unity’s Peace Pole has those words inscribed in English, Spanish, Aramaic, and Lakota Sioux.

The rest of the Unity of Venice campus includes a 300-seat sanctuary built in 2008, The Spiritual Oasis Metaphysical Bookstore, and a recently renovated Youth Education Center featuring four classrooms.

Additionally, the original church building was fully renovated in the fall of 2015 and has reopened as The Love and Light Center, a venue for receptions, concerts and special events.

Reverend Robin and Unity of Venice are stellar examples that when people gather together to hear positive messages and share goodwill, they develop a deeper sense of belonging and connection. They become part of something much larger and more meaningful than themselves. And with that purpose, kind, caring and generous hearts grow stronger. Love. Connection. Peace. We may have to look no further than our churches and spiritual campuses to find an important key to better health and wellbeing.

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perfect a

Partnership



When two come together to create something great.

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

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

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

Scenes from an Interview

Pauline Wamsler Joerger

By Gus Mollasis

Palmer Ranch. Honore Avenue. Potter Park. Palmer Boulevard. These are just a mere few of the areas and roadways named to honor the woman who understood the beauty and value of our land and who helped transform a sleepy fishing village into a place where the wealthy flocked to for winter, new opportunities sprouted, and jobs would be created. She of course is Bertha Honoré Palmer, a woman of amazing vision who, more than 100 years ago, bought and developed land where others would not; bought paintings and hung out with the great Impressionist painters before others were ever impressed by their work. The “Grande Dame” of Chicago, the toast of London and Paris, the woman whose jewels and gowns made people gasp when she entered a room, pushed all that aside for the beauty and promise of Sarasota - walking through the mud on her ranch, tending to her garden, enjoying her family, and taking the lead role in the success of her ranch, croplands, and garden. You can’t know Sarasota history without recognizing and honoring her vision for Sarasota’s future and her understanding of the value of our land and shores.

Today, it is her great-great-granddaughter, Pauline Wamsler Joerger, who carries on the legacy of her pioneering ancestor. With a keen understanding for what’s important in life, she helps people see the value of protecting and preserving our greatest works of art – our natural resources – through her work with Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast. In this town so rich in natural resources and culture, she credits the many generous people here who help make Sarasota better and better and a wonderful place to call home. As we sat and talked in the heart of Sarasota, my thoughts naturally went to Bertha Palmer, realizing how proud she would be to know that her town and her legacy are in the good, capable, and caring hands of her great-great-granddaughter, as we took a look at some scenes from an interview of her life.

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Where were you born?

Munich, Germany.

As a child, were you more apt to play in a tree house or run a lemonade stand?

Probably a tree house. I recently found an old picture of me gardening with my mother and I was always on farms with horses and dogs.

Do you have a favorite memory from your childhood with a best friend?

I spent a whole summer when I was nine with my best friend, Natalie, at her pony farm. We’re still very close today. My mother was her Godmother. That summer my mother was sick, so I went and spent the entire summer on Natalie’s farm in the Bavarian countryside with thirty ponies and five dogs. We put a tent in the horse paddock and we would sleep there. We would wake up in the morning in our flannel nightgowns and jump on the ponies and start riding before breakfast jumping over obstacles in the apple orchard.

Where did you go to school and what did you study?

My elementary education was in Germany. For high school, I went to boarding school in New Hampshire. For college, I attended Cornell University in Ithaca where I studied hospitality, real estate, and finance.

How big was your immediate family?

I have four older sisters so my father was very well taken care of. When my mother was alive, what that really meant is that he had five women who took care of him.

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What is the most important thing your mom and dad taught you?

Family first. Definitely a lot of community involvement and always look toward the future and make sure future generations are taken care of.

You come from the Palmer family, a name rich in heritage and community service that’s woven into the fabric of our town. How big an impact did that have on you?

Of course it had a big impact. That impact has become stronger and more significant since I now live here. Certainly my great-great-grandmother’s legacy is more present than when I was growing up in a small cow town in Bavaria.

She is more present when you move here and get to live her legacy. She is one of many women who I’m lucky to have in my lineage, and who have come before me and helped provide me with strong female leadership and big shoes to fill.

Do you feel a heightened responsibility to carry her and your family’s legacy?

Of course. All of the women and men in my family have spent a lot of time, energy, and leadership in community involvement to help improve the communities they have lived in. I feel that I need to follow in their footsteps and as I said before, they are very large shoes to fill.

What’s the most essential thing you learned about Bertha Palmer that helped define her to you?

I think it was her bravery, her leadership, and her strong sense of self. This woman came to Sarasota 100 years ago when she was a widow and bought vast tracts of land, which I am sure could not have been easy as a woman. She suc-

ceeded and accomplished what she set out to do. My understanding in talking to the long-time ranching families in the community is that they had a tremendous amount of respect for her. Here is a woman from Chicago who was teaching them about agricultural methods. I’m sure that was not easily accepted. Her ability to see the potential of Sarasota and the Gulf Coast, buy real estate, and make an investment for the future made her a visionary and she was always willing to do non-traditional things. She went to Paris as a young woman without a chaperone, which at the time was outrageous. She spent time with these “silly artists” that nobody wanted to have anything to do with. Guys like Monet. She bought many pieces of their art when nobody else would. The family joke was that it was drinking money for these artists. Just this fall, I was in Chicago for a family wedding, and I went to the Art Institute. I knew her collection, but to be in the Art Institute and have every third or fourth painting be from the collection of Bertha Honore Palmer is pretty amazing.

When you are in the Art Institute in Chicago and see Mrs. Palmer’s collection of these iconic and priceless works, what feeling comes over you?

I think it is pride. I think it’s cool. It’s beautiful to have positive role models to look back on. That was her accomplishment and not her husband’s, who was very accomplished in his own right. She was ahead of her time.

A real trailblazer.

When you think of Bertha Palmer and her legacy, was she more a businesswoman, philanthropist or socialite to you?

She was certainly all of those things. She was what you would call a Renaissance Woman. Clearly, she was a busi-

nesswoman. No doubt about it. She had very forward and innovative thinking. She came here and bought land, which was her own investment. Her husband was obviously a very successful businessman, and she continued that legacy by making savvy real estate investments. She was very much a philanthropist and worked for the betterment of her community. She knew her own power and understood how to use it. I don’t think she was always an easy person to deal with. I suspect her role as a socialite was by default. I don’t think it was her ambition at all to be a socialite. She was hanging out with French Impressionist painters because she wanted to. At that time, no one really thought their art was that fabulous. In fact, most people then found it to be a little ridiculous.

When did you first come to Sarasota?

It was 1984 when I first came here because my parents took possession of some family lots on North Casey Key. At that point, the property that is Historic Spanish Point was donated to the county and The Oaks (site of Bertha Palmer’s home) was just beginning to be developed. The north part of Casey Key was split among some cousins. My mother, who was born in Chicago, went to Germany in her twenties and fell in love and married my father and stayed and raised all of us. At that point, she said it was time to build a house in America. She said we have this land in Sarasota, so let’s start building something we can enjoy and have for retirement. So that’s when we started coming here. When I went to boarding school, all my sisters were out of the house, and three of them were living in the United States. So this is where we came for spring break, for Thanksgiving and where we all got together. Over the course of ten years, my parents built our house on North Casey Key. January 2016

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Tell me how and why you first got involved in community service in Sarasota.

As a family, we have always been involved in some way.

There was always something being done to give back to our community in one way or another through our local church or volunteering at school. When my husband at the time, who was working for the Nature Conservancy in the Northeast, and I made the decision to come down here, we wanted to start what is now Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast.

These were the boom years in Sarasota in early 2002 and 2003. Every time we came here, people would tell us that we wouldn’t believe what’s happening here, what’s being built here. Waterfront parcels are being turned into condominiums. We talked to them about land conservation and about the land conservation organizations around the world with a tool kit of opportunities to preserve land. Somebody just has to find one of them. In 2003, when our second daughter Sophia was born, it was a long, bitter winter in New Jersey.

I don’t think I was able to leave the house because it was so cold and miserable. We came down to Sarasota on Memorial Day weekend and decided that we should give it five years.

We would start a land trust (Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast) and see if this community engages with it, and if in five years nobody supports it, that’s fine, we’ll do something different. That was ten years ago.

Tell me why Conservation Foundation is so near and dear to your heart.

There is an interesting and important natural, environmental, and cultural landscape here. Florida is a stunning and beautiful state that is seeing a lot of economic growth and development. People move here for the beauty and for the access to its natural and environmental assets. If building takes them all away, we will not have the opportunity to enjoy them anymore. It is important to protect our environment. When I spent time in New York, I followed a long family tradition of being involved with botanical gardens. I have been a very active volunteer and fundraiser for The New York Botanical Gardens. It’s almost like a cousin to our work in Sarasota.

to me. That’s really where, as an organization, we spread our wings and we succeeded in protecting some significant acreage of an important Florida natural landscape.

What about the Myakka Pines Preserve Addition?

It’s a significant piece of land and what I call ranching cultural landscape. I am not a scientist. Others can describe the exact biodiversity and ecosystem much better, but the water frontage on the Myakka River is an environmental treasure and incredibly important for our watershed.

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the phrase “Our Land, Our Heritage, and Our Future”?

My children.

How can people get involved and help?

We have a wonderful website that tells people several ways they can get involved - www.conservationfoundation. com. We have a beautiful fundraiser, the Palm Ball, on February 6th, which raises money to help save land. We need members and have many opportunities for people to act as advocates. We need financial support because we have ongoing operation of staff that is constantly at work identifying new land parcels. It can take many years to actually secure a parcel and protect it in perpetuity.

Asking you to name a favorite piece of property that you have helped preserve is unfair, but please try.

They are all our children and all hold a special place in our hearts. Michael Biehl Park in Venice is very special. That was the first property we protected. But Bay Preserve will always hold a special place in my heart. It allowed us to leverage what we do enormously and increase our impact tremendously since it was such a significant property that we were able to preserve and protect early on in the Foundation’s existence. It gave the organization a real home. The ranches are also very special

Are you more comfortable at fundraising events or hiking a nature path?

I do both. I am very comfortable at black tie fundraiser galas. It’s probably part of my DNA. I remember being at the kitchen table at age eight helping my mother stuff invitations into envelopes for one fundraiser or another. With my hospitality background, I’m very comfortable with people and parties, but there is nothing as beautiful as hiking in a desolate white snow covered peak and having the whole mountain to yourself.

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Are you a religious or spiritual person?

I definitely believe in the golden rule of treating others as you would like to be treated.

What do you hope your children learn from you about our land?

I want them to love and understand nature and therefore be stimulated to protect and preserve nature.

What is your favorite way to spend the day in Sarasota?

My favorite way is to spend it with family and friends on the water. There’s nothing better than that.

Where else do you give your time for community service?

Conservation Foundation is one of my babies, but I am also involved in other organizations. I serve on the board of Gulf Coast Community Foundation and spend a lot of time working on important Foundation initiatives. I am also very involved with Selby Botanical Gardens and joined its board last summer.

What makes Sarasota such a great place?

I think there are two things. I believe people are very, very special here. What makes it a special community is that many people work very hard and dedicate their time and resources to constantly make this an even better community more so than in any other place I have known. And our natural jewels – the jewels along the water starting with The Ringling, Selby Gardens, Bay Preserve and on and on – these are our treasures.

What worries you most about the future of our town that your family helped put on the map?

Sarasota is special and wonderful. Tourism destinations have a life cycle and I don’t ever want Sarasota to hit the decline of that cycle. We have to continue to be smart about how we develop, how we protect, how we treat this resource of a community. We want to continue being an attractive, beautiful destination and home community for all of us. In my work with Gulf Coast Community Foundation, I have been exposed a lot more to the needy in our community - homeless families, hungry children, the struggles for housing. So I worry about that and I’m trying to take an active role in coming up with solutions for these problems. I worry about all of our children being able to get a good education so they have a chance for a good life.

What do you think your great-great-grandmother would think of Sarasota today?

I think she would love it. She loved culture. I have a book that documents Pauline Palmer’s letters when she would visit her mother here. The letters always talked about whom the next family would be to come here and buy property. I’m sure they were fun and great to have dinner with. They were actively recruiting people to play

Finish the following sentences: Saving our land is important because...

We all deserve access to the environmental treasures of our community.

The best thing we can do for future generations is…

Steward our environmental resources carefully.

A park is a place where…

Children play.

To me nature is…

Beautiful. Obviously land is so important.

What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when I mention some of the following places you have been involved in saving or preserving?

Bay Preserve at Osprey It’s a community park where people can come, visit and enjoy the waterfront.

Blackburn Point Park It provides wonderful water access.

Manasota Scrub Preserve An environmental gem.

with, I guess. She always went to the party. She would love what’s going on in Sarasota now. She would love what’s going on at Selby Gardens, The Ringling, and Asolo Rep. She would probably think it was cool that we’re getting another art museum. I think she would love the whole “farm to table” movement because she was always planting.

Do you have a mantra you live by?

I have one that’s kind of stuck with me, and I mean it in the biggest sense of the expression. “Life is too short for cheap wine.” Of course it can be taken to apply to wine, but more broadly, life is short, do it right. I find that time is our most precious resource, so I’m very careful on how I spend it.

How do you want people to remember your family’s legacy in Sarasota?

Positively. I think everybody strives to have a positive impact. As I like to say, I try to do more good than harm and leave the world a better place. My personal mission is to leave my children at least as well, if not better, than what was given to me.

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

Nice, but that’s kind of lame. (smiles and laughs) Smart and impactful.

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Cruise the Gorgeous Gulf Coast Waters in a 42-Foot Private Charter

Reintroducing an old favorite.

Whether you’re planning a wedding, birthday party, reunion, holiday gathering or any social occasion, you’ll relive old memories and create new ones at the Boathouse at Hyatt Regency Sarasota. As the hotel celebrates the 40th anniversary of its grand opening, the legendary Boathouse has received a facelift, and this one-of-a-kind setting is now available exclusively for special events. To book your next gathering or for more information, call 941 953 1234 or visit sarasota.hyatt.com.

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Together

Scene

Engagement

LEA MEI + JAMES BUCHANAN While this beautiful couple both have parents of prominence in the community, Lea and James are special people in their own right, with shining personalities, wonderful careers, and kind hearts. The announcement of their recent engagement was received with great joy by the many who know them, and especially by their parents – Denise and Roberto Mei, owners of Café Baci Restaurant, and Sandy and Congressman Vern Buchanan. This dynamic duo is destined to be a Sarasota power couple for many years to come.

They met as sophomores at Cardinal Mooney High School but did not become close friends until their senior year. They kept in touch through college and for several years thereafter. Lea went to the University of Tennessee, receiving a BS in Psychology, and then earned a second bachelors degree in K-6 Education from the University of Tampa. James went to Florida State University on a full football scholarship and doubled majored in Finance and Entrepreneurship. He received his MBA from the University of South Florida.

But it wasn’t until a few years ago, when mutual loved ones decided to play matchmaker and unite this couple once and for all, that James made the first move and called Lea to invite her to a Christmas party.

As their dating relationship evolved into much more and James decided it was time to pop the question, he planned a very special day. Knowing Lea loves Halloween and Disney World, James decided that a trip to Disney World on Halloween weekend would be just perfect. They enjoyed two days of park hopping with an

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unsuspecting Lea believing the highlights of her day were the yummy jalapeno and cheddar pretzels and the ride on Spaceship Earth. Little did she know the best was yet to come.

That evening, James surprised Lea with a private boat ride to watch the fireworks, front row seats to a Magic Kingdom show, with the grand finale his proposal of marriage. James then whisked Lea away in a limo for dinner where she was surprised yet again when she found her parents, James’ parents, and her brother Michael and sister-in-law Nicole, all waiting at the restaurant to share in the celebration.

James is a managing broker/owner of James Buchanan Realty. He is also licensed in Colorado. Lea is the Director of Development and Communications for United Cerebral Palsy of Southwest FL, Inc. MMD Events and NK Productions Wedding Planning are orchestrating a spectacular 2016 spring wedding. The ceremony will be at First Sarasota Baptist Church and the reception at The Ringling Museum. Lea will be wearing a gown designed

by Ines Di Santo from Blush Bridal Sarasota. Photo by Justin DeMutiis Photography

LAUREN ELIZABETH SEITL + TIMOTHY JAMES FLYNN Lauren and Tim are another couple for whom the magic of Disney World played an important role. Lauren, a Pine View School graduate, and Tim, who is from Orlando, met in Sarasota in 2010, when Tim was the drummer at a local show playing with his former band. Tim had just finished his set when he noticed Lauren and a friend with a plate full of cookies. Not one to miss out on a good cookie, Tim beelined to the woman who will soon become his wife. Although they stayed in touch on and off for over a year, they didn’t officially start dating until February 2012.

After graduating Pine View, Lauren attended Florida State University and is now Assistant Visual Manager at Macy’s in the Mall at Millenia in Orlando. She is also in a master's program at University of Central Florida (UCF) in January for Marriage, Couple and Family Therapy. Tim attended UCF for his undergraduate and master's degrees and will graduate with his Ed.D. in Educational Leadership in August. Tim is currently a high school US History teacher.

Since they reside in Orlando, Tim and Lauren have annual passes to Disney World. Enlisting the help of a Disney executive, Tim proposed to Lauren at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The couple had VIP seating for the Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage show. As the show ended, Tim coaxed Lauren into hanging back while the rest of the guests left the theater. He then gave Lauren a picture book he made using photos taken of the two of them over the course of their three-year relationship. The last page of the book was a picture of cards Tim had received from Lauren and on top of the cards was a photo of the engagement ring.

Tim then placed the real ring on the photo and asked Lauren if she would spend the rest of her life with him. After saying yes, the curtain opened to reveal the cheering cast of Beauty and the Beast, who then presented Lauren and Tim with personalized Minnie and Mickey Mouse bride and groom caps!

Lauren’s parents are Deborah and Wayne Seitl of Sarasota and Steven and Elizabeth Cameron. Tim’s parents are KathyJean and Steven Walter and Mr. Kevin and Betty Flynn. The couple will marry in Highlands, NC on October 9, 2016 at The Farm at the Old Edwards. They are hoping for beautiful fall colors for all to enjoy.

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Weddings

ALLISON NACE + JONATHAN CORNELL What are the odds that you marry a childhood friend? Well that’s exactly the fairytale story of the lovely Allison Nace and the dashing Jonathan (JC) Cornell. It seems that older sister Ashley was good friends with JC and his best friend, Colin Showalter, while in elementary school at Out-of-Door Academy.

Allison got to know JC then, but not as well as her sister knew him.

During their elementary school years, the group played a variation of tag called Man Hunt – girls against boys – and it was a game JC and Colin dominated. As the friends grew up, moved away, and went to college, they managed to stay in touch, including JC and Allison.

JC moved to California during his high school years and then went to Roger Williams University in Rhode Island where he majored in Business Management and minored in Communications. Allison went to Cardinal Mooney High and then to the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York where she received her B.S. in Fashion Merchandising.

It was when Allison moved to New York to attend the Fashion Institute that the couple reunited. JC was living in Westport, Connecticut, a short train ride from Manhattan. He planned a fun night out for his friends and Allison’s friends to get together. That get together would start 14 continuous days of train rides and a romance that would eventually lead to love and marriage.

When JC was ready to propose, he planned a special evening in Allison’s mother’s hometown of Hingham, Massachusetts. JC took Allison to a special dinner that evening surprising her with red roses and champagne at the table. When she turned around, JC was on one knee proposing.

After finishing school, JC and Allison moved back to Sarasota. She works from home as a fashion forecaster for Décor Apparel. JC has his own business, The Cornell Collection, which focuses on Siesta Key rental properties and other business ventures.

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Remember big sister Ashley and JC’s best friend Colin Showalter? Well of course they served as the couple’s Maid of Honor and Best Man at their November 14th black tie wedding at the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota. And since the couple wanted to please guests from all generations, they hired the Atlanta Party Band from Atlanta and the official Tampa Bay Rays DJ, “DJ Fresh” for the after party. While Allison and JC originally planned to go to Maui on their honeymoon, that’s on hold for now. They were so tired after their fabulously fun wedding, they went on a special ski trip a few weeks later, staying in downtown Vail at a private residence. Allison’s parents are Elizabeth and Philip Nace of Sarasota. JC’s parents are Martha and Brian Cornell, CEO of Target. Wedding planner: Maria Brady of Choreographed Events in Sarasota Flips | Flowers: Tiger Lily.

TATYANA SHAROUBIM + CHARLES STEWART Tatyana is widely known in town as the beautiful owner of T. Georgiano’s Shoe Salon on 1st Street in Sarasota, a fabulous boutique featuring men’s and women’s luxury shoes and accessories. Charles, a fourth generation Floridian, is a John Hopkins fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon at Florida Orthopedic Specialists and Sports Medicine in Sarasota, specializing in total hip and knee replacements. They met while at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida in 2003.

The couple share a love of the water and are active in many water sports including boating, paddle boarding, surfing, fishing, and free-dive spearfishing. Whenever the waves come up on Siesta, it’s guaranteed you’ll find them surfing and paddle-boarding. So it is no wonder that Tatyana and Charles chose a private residence on the water at Point of Rocks on Siesta Key for their wedding day since the beach and water are the essence of who they are.

To go along with the couple’s relaxed and beachy vibe, Tatyana wore a bohemian-chic lace high-low lace maxi.

Guests enjoyed catering by locally owned and operated Polpo Pizza Food Truck Co., complete with a brick pizza oven.

Lollicake Pastry Parlor designed their custom cake. The music was a blend of cool, mellow sounds including lots of tunes by singer, songwriter and surfer Jack Johnson. Flowers, including Tatyana’s floral crown, were by Victoria Bloom.

But the real star of the day was the couple’s 10-month-old son, Byron. This super social cutie is already a “foodie” and just like his parents, can’t get enough of the beach and the water. Dear friends and family were on hand to celebrate the couple’s special day with Leanne Moody serving as marriage officiant, and Tyler Doggett and Shelley Sarbey, Godparents to Byron, serving as witnesses.

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| Photography: Binary

Victor DeRenzi, Artistic Director | Richard Russell, Executive Director

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EDUCATION

The One Ocean Curriculum at Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

Saint Stephen’s Episcopal School might only have about 700 students, but they’ve got big-

2.4 seconds, beating a March 2014 record time of 3.3 seconds.

time things going on throughout the year. Last

But the biggest project happening at SSES

month, paleontologist Jack Horner — one of the

these days is focused on marine science — an

world’s leading experts on dinosaurs and a key

area of study that has critical importance now

adviser on all the Jurassic Park movies — spoke

and in the future. “The ocean plays a pivot-

with third through sixth graders about everyone’s

al role in climate change,” explains Ann Marie

favorite topic: dinosaurs! In November, former

Shields, the Science Department Chair who’s in

New York Giant and Super Bowl champs David

her 25th year in that administrative position and

Bass and Henry Lawrence were on campus for

her 31st as a teacher. “It operates as the ‘lungs

a Game Changers promo shoot. And this past

of the planet.’ It holds promise of resource har-

July, SSES’s “Team Florida” won the Advanced

vesting and food sourcing that is dramatically

Certamen national championship at the National

underutilized in some cases and exploited in

Junior Classical League Forum in San Antonio.

others.” Our oceans cover more than 70% of the

They were recently honored for this achieve-

earth’s surface and yet they remain mostly unex-

ment at a ceremony in Tallahassee by Governor

plored below the surface. They are perhaps the

Rick Scott. Plus Zack Gromko, a 17-year-old se-

last great frontier yet to be explored for scientific

nior, likely broke a Guinness World Record re-

discovery, and SSES is committed to having its

cently when his robot solved a Rubik’s Cube in

students investigate, appreciate, and enjoy the

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Through the One Ocean curriculum, she explains, students in the Lower School study the Florida-based ocean habitats with representative plants and animals highlighted. They travel to the dock on campus to do field observations, do experiments in the classroom, and broaden their experiences by visiting local marine science facilities such as Mote Marine and the Parker Aquarium at the South Florida Museum.

“Our fourth grade focuses its study on the unique properties of water and how those affect ocean organisms,” she says. “Fifth graders study earth science with a unit on sand, and have collected specimens from all over the world. Our sixth grade students do a unit on ocean field studies with a visit to Mote. Grades seven and eight study life science from an ocean perspective and physical science with oceanography in mind.” dynamic biological, chemical, and physical processes that make up a marine environment.”

The Upper School students can take three electives in marine science: Marine Science 1 (ocean

Thanks to a generous lead gift from the Moore

ecology and oceanography), Marine Science 2

family as well as contributions from Ken Keating and

(marine biology), and Marine Science 3 (marine re-

the estate of Dr. Betty O’Dell, Saint Stephen’s broke

search). Every one of these Upper School courses

ground this past May on a 5,933-square-foot marine

has both a classroom and field study component so

science center that will include a wet lab, two indoor

students can create a tangible appreciation for the

classrooms, and one outdoor classroom. The build-

beauty and complexity of a marine environment.

ing will be located on the McLewis Bayou and have

Saint Stephen’s also offers an annual SCUBA certifi-

direct access to the Manatee River and the Gulf of

cation course and a biannual trip to an international

Mexico. Using a kayak fleet as well as boats provid-

marine study station in addition to numerous field

ed by Freedom Boat Club — which provides 2 motor

trips to ocean-focused venues.

launches that pick up students at their dock, trans-

Shields says, “Saint Stephen’s has made this

ports them to their area of study, and returns them

campus-wide commitment to our Marine Science

to campus within the laboratory blocks schedule —

initiative for two main reasons. There’s only one

Upper School students are able to encounter nearby

ocean. It covers most of the Earth's surface, provides

aquatic habitats and complete hands-on field studies

more than half of the oxygen used by land-based or-

to explore ocean organisms and do water parameter

ganisms, absorbs and stores excess carbon dioxide

testing. Who would choose to read about water in a

from the atmosphere, moderates weather patterns

textbook when you can be out on a boat, experienc-

and climate, contains a multitude of natural resourc-

ing and learning firsthand?

es, and is magnificently beautiful. It’s vital for people

“We have a school-wide initiative in marine

to understand their connection to the ocean.”

science that involves every student on the campus,

Plus Saint Stephens is uniquely positioned on the

grades Pre-K3 through grade 12,” says Shields. “Our

Gulf Coast. Having direct dock access to the water al-

One Ocean science curriculum pulls the marine sci-

lows students to easily have experiential learning as part

ence thread through all science courses. This new

of their study of the ocean. “It’s a natural match between

curriculum was authored by the team of marine

an area of critical study and accessibility,” Shields says.

science teachers, Allison Misiewicz, Cristiane Skey,

And for a student-centered school like Saint Stephens,

Jean Boothby, Deb Nixon, Cindy Ackerman, Jessica

the One Ocean curriculum is clearly a perfect match.

DeVault and myself.”

941.746.2121 | www.saintstephens.org January 2016

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The

Around Town

By Suzette Jones

Trend: a general development or change in a situation or in the way people are behaving - Cambridge Dictionary Every December, the American College of Sports Medicine comes out with the top 10 fitness trends for the next year (www.acsm-healthfitness.org). The #1 fitness trend for 2016 is “wearable technology”. As I count my steps on my new Garmin Vivo to get back in shape, I started thinking about trends and our community. There is a reason why this issue’s theme is health and wellness. After a holiday season of feasts and treats, getting fit seems to have a permanent spot on many New Year’s resolutions. In a town as active and social as Sarasota, it seems natural that some of the health and fitness industry leaders are moving into the social scene as well - from Tiffany Liashek’s Studio South Fitness’ sponsorship and jawdropping show at Forty Carrots’ spectacular luncheon, Wine, Women and Shoes (which this year netted $480,000 for community parenting programs), to the Pure Barre personal training, massage and yoga packages donated to numerous charity silent auctions, these businesses clearly see the benefit of merging their marketing and philanthropic efforts. It’s an easy equation. You gain loyal clients when you support the community. So just what are some other trends creating buzz this social season?

Trend #1: FOCUSING ON THE MESSAGE People’s personal stories that identify with a nonprofit’s message is definitely a trend. Planned Parenthood’s High Tide at High Noon Fashion Show produced by Lissa Murphy and featuring fashions from Influence Style, Lotus Boutique, Blackbird Lifestyle and Dream Weaver, included personal stories from Tatyana Sharoubim-Stewart, Annaliese Rodriguez, Amanda Schlacter and Steve Krumwiede, who all modeled for the cause, stopping mid-runway to share why they stand with Planned Parenthood. Other models included Aimee Chouinard, Chaz Glunk, Megan Greenberg, Marty Hurwitz, Daemian Mains, Robyn Marin, Rachel Silverman and Marsha Truscott.

The luncheon, held at the Sarasota Yacht Club, was packed with passionate supporters including event chairs Pauline Joerger, Bianca Lawrence, Mindy Rollins and Allison Scanlan, as well as longtime supporters Laura Proctor, Cornelia Matson, Chip Gaylor, Marguerite Van Antwerpen, Gerri Aaron, Felice Schulaner, Betty Schoenbaum, Carol Poteat Buchanan, Carolyn Johnson, Christine Jennings, Barbara Banks, and chapter founder Mary Elmendorf. Chapter leader Barbara Zdrevecky reminded guests that Planned Parenthood is getting ready to celebrate its 100th national anniversary, while the Southwest and Central Florida chapter turns 50 next year. Did you know that Planned Parenthood serves one of every five women in America, and our local chapter provides health services to 40,000 patients each year?

Easter Seals showcased its Academy Farms, which grows organic herbs raised by its students with special needs, at the recent Un-Forked event featuring many local restaurants including Anna Maria Oyster January 2016

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Bar and Michael’s on East. Spotted in the diverse crowd was mortgage guru Penny Hill, Manatee County Public Defender Geoffrey Proffit, esthetician Jana Marie Lyons (celebrating her birthday!), Florida Department of Education Board Member John Colon, Goodwill Manasota Foundation Veep Veronica Brandon Miller, man-abouttown Vincente Medina, and even two llamas!

I’m predicting we will be hearing more about Easter Seals now that Tom Waters and Lori Hagey are leading and promoting the organization.

Pines of Sarasota Foundation’s annual luncheon, The Wit and Wisdom of Aging, featured panelists Gerri Aaron, Flori Roberts and Dickie Smothers. They had the audience engrossed and laughing with their life stories.

Honorary Chair Betty Schoenbaum gave away her secret to staying young saying, “The heart hugs I give raise the endorphins that strengthen my immune system. It’s worked for me. I’m 98!” People like Betty, Gerri, Flori and Dickie are perfect examples of

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why supporting our senior care community is so important - to help preserve and honor priceless knowledge, experience and humor.

The charming guests at my table included Jeffrey Kin and Michelle Pingel, the brilliant managing duo at The Player’s Theatre. A unique collaboration is brewing that will bring young pop culture aficionados to a special workshop this spring. Keep watch…it should be fun, fun, fun! Also seen laughing at the luncheon were Eddie Morton, outgoing Pines Foundation Chair and board member Stewie Bitterman and his dazzling wife Marji, owner of Beads & Dangles, and Pines Foundation President Estelle Crawford.

Trend #2: UNTRADITIONAL DINNERS Bacchus on the Beach, hosted by The Resort on Longboat Key, piles over 300 pounds of stone crab claws and other delectables on an ice table under a beachfront tent, while guests enjoy the vinos from invited global vintners and support local charities. This year, Mote Marine was the local charity benefiting from the event and it also participated with its sustainable, aqua culturally grown sturgeon caviar. Bacchus takes place on a weekend in November each year. In case you haven’t heard, Sarasota’s own boutique venture capital investment firm, Seven Holdings,

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under the leadership of Chris Cogan, Russ Vernon and Jeff Sedacca, recently became the major investor in Mote Environmental Services, Inc., which includes the sturgeon fish and caviar business. The firm’s Healthy Earth LP was founded in late 2014 by the team

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United States. Very cool.

Asolo Rep’s Starry Night Dinner Series, entertaining dinners held at private homes,

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was the idea of none other than the amazing Margaret Wise in 2008. The dinner series originally had three chairs - Katherine Harris, Lee Peterson and Margaret Wise – and their

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themed to one of the theater’s productions, but over the past few years the committee has themed the dinner to promote an upcoming production giving dinner guests an inside look before the show opens. With

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Asolo Rep’s very talented Laura Woods facilitating

these

elaborately

designed

events, Starry Night dinners are a “mustexperience.” The last dinner of this season’s series will be April 16 and the dress code is Moderne et Magnifique in celebration of the opening of Asolo Rep’s Josephine, the story of the magnificent Josephine Baker. This play is Broadway bound so we’ll get the chance to see it before Broadway does – magnifique!

There’s limited seating for these swank and entertaining Starry Night dinners, so if want to reserve your spot at the dinner table for the April dinner, go to asolorep.org/starrynights.

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a portion of dinner and beverage sales on January 12th to the cause. All you have

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Designing Daughters produces to raise

SUPPORTING THE ARTS HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER!

funds that support area charities. Under the leadership of presidents Nikki Taylor, Jane Thompson and now Montana Taplinger, the committee has grown far beyond Shelley Lister’s expectations when she founded the group in 2009, while serving as a Designing

A CONSIGNMeNT STORe lIKe NO OTheR!

Women Boutique board member.

Trend #3: CONNECT THE GENERATIONS WITH CELEBRITIES

12,000-square-feet filled to the brim with hidden yet affordable treasures like Baccarat crystal, Tiffany silver, Gucci, Prada, Chicos, 14k-22k gold jewelry, high-end furniture, handmade Persian rugs and regular household items.

Mary Kenealy of Mary Kenealy Events produces some of the largest celebrity events in the region including the Dick Vitale Gala.

The May 13, 2016 Gala will feature sports

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also managing the Van Wezel Foundation Gala on February 28th starring Josh Groban

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(vwfoundation.org/events). I asked Mary to share her take on the Sarasota social scene. “Like the economy in Sarasota, we

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tie, four course plated surf and turf dinner and dancing, Sarasota’s ever-loyal galagoing crowd is begging for an interactive experience - create your own food stations and living statues as an example - and are willing to pay a higher ticket price. Businesses are doing better, nonprofits are growing, and our clients have started to tap into a new type of event – offering patrons an evening

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so many women attending, it was difficult to see everyone, but I did spot Beverly Bartner, Emily Walsh, Richard Bergman and met a new friend, Bonnie London, a local nutritionist

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who said of the luncheon, “It was a feast for the body and for the soul.”

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Other events using celebrities to create adventure

and

excitement

include

the

Humane Society of Sarasota County’s Hot

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Dog & Cool Cats: Laugh Your Paws Off (hssc. org), which headlined Saturday Night Live comedian Kevin Nealon. Supporting the cause were Kim Mancini, Wendy Rossiter, legal wiz

124

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January 2016

John Chapman, State Street Eatery proprietor Chris Voelker, YouTube sensation Kirsten Sponsellor, Catherine Ellis and husband Steve Ellis – owner of MGB Homebuilders.

Ariane Dart announced that rocker Joan Jett will be firing up local Forty Carrots Family Center supporters at the annual Firefly Gala on April 30th. (fireflygala.org) The Sarasota Opera Gala (sarasotaopera. org) always brings generations together with special performances by Sarasota Opera Principal Artists, professionals who hail from all over the world. This year’s event, “An Evening on the Nile”, is chaired by Edie Chaifetz and

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Sandra Lindqvist, and it will celebrate the start of the Verdi Cycle’s final season with a party that promises to be as monumental as Sarasota Opera’s winter season of performances. This elegant affair, being held at the Ritz-Carlton on January 23, includes a cocktail hour, a delectable four-course dinner, and the special artists’ performances.

Trend #4: COLLABORATION I’m

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Tournament (temmons.org) being held on January 30 with the help of Taylor’s family,

THE DESTINATION for January!

Executive Director Sandy Albano, and

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family foundations such as the Green, Karp, Patten, Argyros, and Feeny families, as well as local companies including Caldwell Trust

Stage II Jan. 21 - Feb. 14

Company, Suncoast Professional Painting, Mary Grove Rollscreens, and Out-Of-Door Academy, the school that Taylor Emmons

MainStage Jan. 12 - 31

attended and loved. Taylor, who excelled in academics and sports, died tragically in 2010. Although the hole created by his absence can never be filled, the Taylor Emmons Scholarship Fund strives to carry on his spirit and energy by awarding four-year scholarships to socio-economically diverse

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The Capitol Steps: Jan 17 & 18 ● The Diamonds: Jan. 24 & 25 Back Home Again, a Tribute to John Denver: Jan. 31 & Feb. 1 January 2016

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UPCOMING...

From special occasions to daily dining, Morton’s Market has got you covered.

Stop in for fresh seasonal produce, prime cuts of meat and seafood, and hot-fromthe-oven baked goods.

Choose from our tempting array of chef-prepared deli and gourmet to-go items, as well as fine wines, exotic cheeses and cut flowers.

Think of us for your catered events, holiday menus and gift baskets too.

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January 2016

For the next few months, there are so many highly anticipated events I couldn’t possibly cover them all. Here are some of the special ones: Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast’s Palm Ball on February 6th (conservationfoundation.com) is where you can rub elbows with people who save our most cherished places forever through their generous financial support. This is truly a see-and-be-seen crowd in a gorgeous al fresco setting.

Sarasota Garden Club holds its annual luncheon and fashion show at the Hyatt on February 12 with special guest speaker Sigrid Olson (sarasotagardenclub.org/events).

Avenues des Artistes is a place where guests can stroll the avenues of Madrid, London and Florence, enjoy dinner, and dance under the stars. Where is this place you ask? Well it’s at State College of Florida in Bradenton (scffoundation.net) and this fabulous February 20th event showcases the talents of SCF art, theater, and music students, as well as faculty and staff.

Education Foundation’s Evening of Excel-lence on February 26th (sarasotacountyschools.net/educationfoundation) showcases the artwork of talented students which is auctioned that evening to raise money to benefit more than 40,000 public school students through the work of the Education Foundation of Sarasota County in support of arts education in our schools.

Sarasota Exotic Car Fest, an eclectic three-day festival featuring private jets, fast cars, road rallies and lots of fun parties, returns on February 19 – 21. This year’s event again benefits United Cerebral Palsy (sunrisegroup.org | facebook.com/SarasotaCarFest) The Miracle Ball supporting All Children’s Hospital Sarasota Guild (allkids.org) on February 27th at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota is one that is near and dear to me. I will be front and center as my 13-year-old daughter shares her open-heart-surgery experience at All Children’s with the crowd of supporters.

Asolo Rep’s Gala and After Party takes place March 5th at the RitzCarlton (asolorep.org/annualgala). Co-chairs Ann Charters, Caroline Ellerson, Susan Malloy Jones, and Jennifer Rust are sure to jazz things up for “Cabaret at the Tropicana”. New on the sponsor list is former ADP CEO, and new Sarasota residents, Gary and Elizabeth Butler – welcome! The After-Party committee includes young community influencers Erin Christy, Douglas Gross, Bart Lowther, Frank Maggio and Nikki Taylor. Asolo Rep is doing a great job bringing in a young group of supporters with lower priced, late night parties.

Will you be pulling out your designer gown and joining the fun? If so, let me know why you are supporting the event. As I move forward with this column, I’d like to shine a light on WHY we support what we support. Maybe you are a longtime philanthropist like Gerri Aaron and Betty Schoenbaum who like to “give while they live”. Or maybe your company is a corporate giver like PNC Wealth Management, Williams Parker or Willis Smith whose leadership all sees the value in financially supporting their community. Or perhaps you are a passionate individual who wants to get involved and make the world a better place. Let me know. What trend are you seeing? Who or what is influencing your decision to give? What BUZZ ignites your passion to get involved with this town? Cheers to our “Thriving Hive” of a community!

Suzette Jones is CEO and Founder of The Economic Buzz, a company focused on economic development and innovation. (theeconomicbuzz.com | sj@theeconomicbuzz.com)

Literary Scene

By Ryan G. Van Cleave

The Bird Market of Paris Prior to this book, Miami Beach author Nikki Moustaki is perhaps best known as the writer of books on the care and training of exotic birds (25 of them, in fact!) and as a very good, award-winning poet. But her love of language and love of birds comes together in a wonderful mix in this memoir entitled The Bird Market of Paris, which might best be described as a cross-specific love story.

This book reveals the deeply personal story of Moustaki’s alcohol addiction and the powerful relationship she had with “Poppy,” her grandfather who was a successful evening gown designer, riveting storyteller, and bird expert. His celebrity put her in contact with the who’swho of Miami. Walter Cronkite loved her wild, curly hair. Dionne Warwick wondered if she’d become a singer. All Moustaki wanted, though, was her birds, and it wasn’t long before she had 120 of them — most of which she hand-raised from chicks. When Poppy died while she was in graduate school in New York, she retreated into a world of booze and blackouts. But after a particularly bad blackout, she vowed to get help and be-

come sober again. When she recalled the famed bird market of Paris that Poppy had often spoken of, she knew that’s where she needed to go. It was there that she could re-find herself and honor Poppy at the same time.

“My relationship with birds took on a metaphorical quality in the story,” says Moustaki, “as a mirror to my relationship with my grandfather and our shared love of these magical feathered creatures.”

She explains that the bird market of Paris is located in Ile de la Cite in Paris on Sundays in conjunction with the famous flower market, one of the oldest open markets in Paris, active since 1900. “My grandfather, who was a gifted raconteur, had lived in Paris after World War II, and regaled me with stories about the birds in the bird market of Paris, saying that they were the finest and most beautiful birds in the world. His stories made me desperate to go there and see it someday.”

This book is powerfully honest, deliciously well-written, and compelling in every way. For fans of recovery stories, birds, or just plain great writing, this book is a can’t miss.

For more information about The Bird Market of Paris (Henry Holt and Company, hardcover, 256 pages, $12.99) or the author, please visit www.nikkimoustaki.com

January 2016

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January 2016

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University of Central Florida graduate Russell R. James’ latest thriller is Q Island, the story of how an ancient virus erupts to live in Long Island, turning New York residents into black-veined, infectious, psychopathic killers. What happens in this story is what would likely happen in real life — Long Island is quarantined, leaving the survivors inside to fight off the infected. Worse, inside the chaos and madness of the quarantine zone is Melanie Bailey and her autistic son, Aiden. It’s not clear why, but he is unaffected by the virus. Could he be the key to a cure? Can Melanie figure out how to get her son to the mainland before a number of other power-grabbers nab him for their own reasons?

This book has an especially large cast of characters, but the action moves along nicely, and the individual plots all come together effectively in the end. Call this an eminently readable thriller. Call it high-octane splattering fun. Call it a worthwhile addition to your reading list.

If Q Island is up your alley, keep an eye out for James’ next novel, The Portal, due out in 2016.

For more information about Q Island (Samhain Publishing, softcover, 306 pages, $16.99) or the author, please visit www.russellrjames.com

Astonished to Wake Julie Suk’s latest poetry collection is simply delightful.

But let’s be clear — poetry is one of the most difficult things to talk about because when it’s done well, it’s so much more than just the words on the page. There are the sounds. The rhythms.

The meanings. The nuances. The gaps in which a reader interjects themselves, thereby completing the poem.

If it’s been awhile since you’ve have a good dose of Vitamin P(oetry), consider giving Suk’s book a try. There are surprises aplenty here and her imagery alone is worth the price of admission to her wonderful world.

For more information about Astonished to Wake (Jacar Press, softcover, 54 pages, $15.95), please visit www.jacarpress.com

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REWIND

A LOOK BACK THROUGH SCENE’S ARCHIVES

130

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January 2016

1979

2016 marks Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s 40th year of healthcare philanthropy. This 1979 medical conference, sponsored by the Foundation in its fourth year of existence, was hailed as “one of the best” by the president of Sloan-Kettering Institute. It seems the Foundation’s positive impact on our community was certainly felt from the start.

Celebrating 40 years in Healthcare Philanthropy To find out how you can make a difference with your healthcare partner call us today (941) 917-1286

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