Diversions 2.12.15

INSIDE: BLACK

TIE

PALM BALL: A night out at Bay Preserve 11 < REVIEW: ‘Both Your Houses’ 8

ARTS + CULTURE THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

SPOTLIGHT

‘Be Mine’

As Valentine’s Day approaches, numerous local organizations are hosting love-themed events. The Sarasota Orchestra dives into the nature and power of love songs with its ‘Be Mine’ concert series. PAGE 5

FOOD

Photo by Nick Reichert

Mike McClaughin, director of horticulture, and Roger Capote, special events manager, strive to make Marie Selby Botanical Gardens blossom in the 21st century. The gardens are known for their vast collection of rare and exotic epiphytes.

A NEW

LEAF

Recipe for Success

Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion bartender Mark Crawford says simple is the best approach when making quality drinks. PAGE 10

BLACK

TIE

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens seeks to grow in harmony with its roots.

NICK REICHERT A&E EDITOR

M

arie Selby Botanical Gardens’ mission of intimate and interactive plant appreciation and conservation is on full display in its main tropical plant greenhouse. The senses are overloaded with one step through the door. A dazzling bouquet of vivid purple, orange and yellow attracts the eye, while an intoxicating collection of smells welcomes you. PAGE 2

People with Purpose

Between a family and a busy career, Stacy Hanan always makes time for philanthropy. PAGE 18

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

LEAF: the immersive world of Selby Gardens CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Photos by Nick Reichert

Plants, flowers and buddhas adorn the paths of Selby Gardens, including in the Ann Goldstein Children’s Rainforest Garden, above.

Then, there’s the music. Stevie Wonder's “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” plays through the greenhouse's speakers, followed by other Motown staples.

The gardens’ fun, playful and inviting atmosphere is in stark contrast to the traditional and stoic botanical gardens across the country. New Selby Gardens CEO Jennifer Rominiecki is quite familiar with the “museum of plants” feel, such as at the New York Botanical Gardens, where she served as CEO for 15 years.

Although she was fascinated with the New York Botanical Gardens’ role as a plant curator, the opportunity to work at Selby Gardens, with its high investment in research, conservation as well as youth education and community involvement, was a chance she couldn’t pass up.

Rominiecki, who started her new job Monday, hopes to ensure Selby Gardens continues as not only a plant sanctuary and research facility but also as an interactive, living and communal botanical experience.

“This place is a healing and spiritual thing for people,” says Director of Horticulture Mike McClaughlin. “People bond with the Selby Garden, and this becomes a respite from life for them.”

According to Rominiecki, her first order of business is to build on the strong foundation that has already been laid by meeting with local professionals, organizations and community leaders.

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Additional support was generously provided by the Ting Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Foundation Endowment, the Elizabeth Firestone Graham Foundation, the Philip D. and Unni Kaltenbacher Endowment, the Publix Super Markets Charities Endowment, the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation Endowment, the Peter and Mary Lou Vogt Museum Generated Exhibition Fund, The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art Foundation, and Saks Fifth Avenue.

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PLANTING PRIDE

8 “I am interested in helping take Selby Gardens to the next level, and that means looking at how we can further expand on what’s working,” she says.

The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens have been providing an oasis for plant enthusiasts, researchers and curious visitors alike for nearly 40 years. The gardens opened to the public in July 1975 and have become a staple of the Sarasota community.

Thousands of exotic plant varieties will be on display and for sale at the gardens’ annual Plant and Garden Festival Feb. 21 and Feb. 22. The scale of this plant extravaganza can be adequately summarized by the gardens’ BYOW policy: Bring your own wheelbarrow. Vendors will line the large lawn with colorful and rare plant varieties.

Plant societies and horticultural experts will also be in attendance to answer any gardening queries. And for the most casual of gardeners and their families, there will be local food vendors and family activities around the garden’s Children’s Rainforest Garden. But even the non-plant activities still revolve around the garden’s mission of conservation and environmental awareness with Darwin’s on 4th hosting a farm-to-fork food demonstration.

“I like to say when we have events here they take on a life of their own,” says Roger Capote, special events manager at Selby Gardens. “The way we coordinate events is to organize organically around the garden.”

Greenhouses

15

Acres

More than 20,000

Plant varieties

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Participating plant societies

31

Unique plant varieties on sale at the festival Feb. 21-22 McClaughlin and Capote are creating a garden that is not only educational but also an immersive experience.

“You’re nose to nose with these orchids and trees, whereas other public gardens are almost plant museums. We’re a research-based garden, but one of our real goals is to reconnect people with nature.”

– Mike McClaughlin, director of horticulture at Selby Gardens

Capote orchestrates the large public interactions such as the plant and garden festival and the popular holiday “Lights in Bloom” celebration that illuminates the existing plants and trees with dazzling constellations of lights and designs. In addition, Capote says that though that it isn’t hard to sell community and private events at the garden due to its aesthetic and natural beauty, the real accomplishment is to make events that appeal to every-

one and not just some.

“This is the easiest job I’ve ever had,” says Capote, “but you need to open the garden to all different kinds of groups. I need to orchestrate events that appeal to families and older donors as well as young people. I’m always trying to keep the events current.”

In tandem with Capote, McClaughlin ensures that events maintain the root of Selby Gardens’ mission: appreciation of plants and biodiversity.

“We are a small and intimate garden,” says McClaughlin.

“You’re nose to nose with these orchids and trees, whereas other public gardens are almost plant museums. We’re a researchbased garden, but one of our real goals is to reconnect people with nature.”

McClaughlin and his staff work daily to ensure that the thousands of resident plants and flowers are maintained. Armed with his buzzing walkie-talkie, McClaughlin is a combination of handyman and scientist fixing any structural or maintenance issues on the property while noting the biological nuances of the thousands of plant species.

“You never really finish a garden,” McClaughlin says. “We’re constantly renovating our gardens. It’s like the natural replacement of cells in our bodies.”

BRANCHING OUT Epiphytes: Plants that grow on or around another plant or object for physical support. Usually found in tropical locales, they are often referred to as “air plants” because they are not attached to the ground or any traditional nutrient source.

They subsist on water and minerals collected from the rain or ephemera collected on their host plant or object.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

VISUAL ARTS

PERFORMING ARTS

MUSIC

‘THE GREAT AMERICAN GRAPHIC NOVEL’ Selby Gallery, Ringling College of Art & Design Runs through Feb. 18.

Call 351-5100.

‘BELLE OF AMHERST’ LIVE PERFORMANCE Fruitville Public Library 1:30 to 3 p.m. Feb. 12 Free event. Call 861-2518.

‘BEST OF THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK’ WITH JENNIFER SHEEHAN AND JAMES FOLLOWELL Artist Series Concerts of Sarasota Michael’s On East 11 a.m. Feb. 12 Tickets: $45.

Call 306-1202.

‘VIOLET’ The Players Theatre 7 p.m. Feb. 12, 13, 14 and 15; 2 p.m. Feb. 15 Runs through March 1.

Tickets $25 to $30.

Call 365-2494.

Courtesy photos

Lynn Davison’s “Trying to Keep a Good Man Down”

‘FRIENDS AND FAMILY:’ PAINTINGS

BY LYNN DAVISON Allyn Gallup Contemporary Art Gallery Runs through Feb. 28.

Call 366-2454.

‘FRESH’ Art Center Sarasota Runs through March 6.

Call 365-2032.

ARTCENTER MANATEE ‘AQUEOUS WATERCOLOR SHOW’ ArtCenter Manatee Feb. 15 through March 20 Call 792-0608.

‘FLY’ Florida Studio Theatre, Gompertz Theatre 8 p.m. Feb 12, 13, 14, 15, 17 and 18; 3 p.m. Feb. 14 and 15 Tickets $18 to $39.

Call 366-9000.

‘TOSCA’ Sarasota Opera 1:30 p.m. Feb 14; 7:30 p.m. Feb. 17 Runs through March 28.

Tickets $90 to $135.

Call 366-8450.

‘MARRIAGE OF FIGARO’ Sarasota Opera 7:30 p.m. Feb. 15 and 18 Runs through March 28.

Tickets $90 to $135.

Call 366-8450.

‘ART OF BLUES’/ BILL BUCHMAN AND STEVE HARVEY Longboat Key Center for the Arts 7 p.m. Feb. 12 Tickets: $30 to $45.

Call 383-2345.

GREAT ESCAPES SERIES: ‘BE MINE’ Sarasota Orchestra Holley Hall 7:30 p.m. Feb. 12; 5:30 p.m.

Feb. 13; 8 p.m. Feb. 14 Tickets: $35 to $55.

Call 953-3434.

MICHAEL BROWN, CLASSICAL PIANIST The Glenridge Performing Arts Center 8 p.m. Feb. 13 Tickets: $15 to $20.

Call 552-5325.

‘FELLA SINGS ELLA WITH SCOTT COULTER’ The Glenridge Performing Arts Center 8 p.m. Feb. 18 Tickets: $22.50 to $27.50.

Call 552-5325

NICK’S PICKS

‘TITLE OF SHOW’ Forego the typical Valentine’s Day weekend romantic fare with the FSU/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training’s production of the meta-musical “Title of Show.” Created

by Jeff Bowen and Hunter Bell in 2004, this one-act musical depicts four friends creating a musical for the New York Musical Theatre Festival in just three weeks.

This behind-the-curtain musical’s note of grace was that the very musical the characters are creating is the musical the audience will see. Inventive and full of adoration for Broadway musical culture, “Title of Show” is a respite for those in need of musical love this February.

When: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 17; 8 p.m. Feb. 18. Runs through March 8.

Where: Cook Theatre, Asolo Repertory Theatre, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail Tickets: $27 to $29 Info: Call 351-8000

‘A LEGACY INSCRIBED: THE SCHOENBERG COLLECTION OF MANUSCRIPTS’ AND ‘THE GREAT AMERICAN GRAPHIC NOVEL’ Though it may seem to be an odd combination at first, the placing of “A Legacy Inscribed: The Schoenberg Collection of Manuscripts” and “The Great American Graphic Novel” is an inspired display of curatorial ambition. Centuries-old manuscripts from around the globe dominate the entrance space of the Selby Gallery on the campus of the Ringling College of Art and Design. The pure artistry and craftsmanship in these manuscripts’ creation and preservation is something to behold. Further in the gallery, the collection of more recent works by American artists and comic book writers in the graphic novel form is a stunning contrast to the manuscripts. Combined, this exhibit is a testament to humanity’s love of the written image and word.

When: Runs through Feb. 18.

Where: Selby Gallery, Ringling College of Art and Design, 2700 N. Tamiami Trail Tickets: Free Info: Call 351-5100

159944

‘A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM’ Booker High School Visual & Performing Arts Program 7 p.m. Feb. 12, 13 and 14 Tickets $5 to $15.

Call 355-2967, Ext. 65215.

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Love Notes A&E EDITOR

Everyone has a favorite. Whether it’s a recent radio hit or a timeless soundtrack staple, everyone has a love song that connects to the very core of his or her emotions.

But what exactly separates the good love songs from the sappy odes of passion?

The Sarasota Orchestra is delving into the art and nature of love songs — one of the most ubiquitous musical sub-genres — with the fourth entry in its annual “Great Escapes” series: “Be Mine.” Running Feb. 11 to Feb. 14, the concert’s song list explores a wide range of source materials, time period and emotions.

Standards from Broadway musicals include Leonard Bernstein’s “West Side Story,” George and Ira Gershwin’s “Crazy For You” overture and Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II’s “Cinderella.” The cinema is represented by the theme from Otto Preminger’s 1944 film noir “Laura,” music from the 1980 romance “Somewhere in Time” and the galactic love song “Across the Stars” by the indelible John Williams from “Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones.”

And more classical fare is included as well, such as Howard Hanson’s opera “Merry Mount,” the popular “Con te Partiro”

by Francesco Sartori and Lucio

Quarantotto (made popular by vocalist Andrea Bocelli) and Felix Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March” from his depiction of William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” among others.

“We’re always looking to make a connection with our audience, and through such varied music we play we hope to reach them and make a difference,” says Christopher Confessore, visiting conductor and music director of the Brevard Symphony Orchestra.

When Confessore organized the song lineup of this concert series about a year ago, he noticed a peculiar pattern occurring.

“I noticed the songs were all falling into different categories: a sad or happy ending,” says Confessore. “And I realize this would be a fun way to set up the concert into two parts.”

This dynamic of yearning and uncertainty is a common theme throughout not only the program but most love songs. It’s the common thread of the love story at the heart of the greatest love songs.

“There’s a constant presence of human emotions everyone shares,” says George Nickson, principal percussionist for the Sarasota Orchestra, about the DNA of great love songs. “There have to be moments of joy and great difficulty. There exists in that wide range of emotions a guaranteed place to connect with the listener.”

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

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LOVE SONG DIARIES: Conductor Christopher Confessore: “I think a good melody, a singable melody for me, is something I look for. A sentimental lyric and I’m a sucker for a half-step modulation: the old Barry Manilow trick. Mostly his ballads would modulate up a half-step, and that gives a certain psychology, a little bit of a lift.

And I’ve always liked that. It’s surprising; some love songs spend a lot of time with minor keys. ‘My Funny Valentine’ is a sad song and not the most romantic song.”

The Sarasota Orchestra explores the elements of love songs in honor of Valentine’s Day. NICK REICHERT

|

Nick Reichert

The worlds of music and love are intermixed this Valentine’s Day weekend for the Sarasota Orchestra’s “Be Mine” concert.

According to Bharat Chandra, principal clarinetist for the Sarasota Orchestra, great love songs continue the conversation that such strong emotions evoke within everyone.

“It’s something that everyone can share the same feeling but everyone has an individual feeling,” says Chandra. “But, above all, it transports us in our mind to a time when we were better because of someone —when your eyes meet, or the curl of someone’s hair, or the sound their voice.”

“I think what makes a great love song is that it says musically what’s needed after poetry stops.”

– Bharat Chandra, principal clarinetist for the Sarasota Orchestra

George Nickson: “Certain pieces activate the orchestra in different ways.‘West Side Story,’ for the American musician, is the magnum opus of Broadway. In addition, John Williams’ compositions have a special quality for me. He writes for the orchestra as if it’s one single instrument.”

Bharat Chandra: “Nat King Cole’s ‘You’re Looking At Me,’ performed by Diana Krall, has this extra element of aspiration.

When you feel that song in your heart you aspire to find that feeling, that love, again.”

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

Nick Reichert

Both beginner and longtime singers converge in the Chorus of the Keys, an all-male barbershop choir.

Choral Camaraderie The Chorus of the Keys hits the right notes in continuing the barbershop tradition.

NICK REICHERT A&E EDITOR

A

began almost by happenstance.

John Whelan, visiting from Boston, came to Sarasota to watch the Boston Red Sox baseball team play in Payne Park during its spring training. Whelan wanted to get a group of guys together to sing while he was in town. The Bostonian called local choir directors and put out ads in the local papers. About 60 men filled the Orange Blossom Hotel on the designated day, ready to sing.

Since then, the Sarasota chapter of the Society for the Pres-

SH nO OW W in g!

squad of six men ranging from early middle age to their early 70s laugh and converse on a quiet Tuesday night in the small chapel space inside FirstSarasota, the Downtown Baptist Church on Main Street.

They start to arrange chairs and haul out long, metal platforms.

As they assemble the risers into a five-tiered semicircle, more men

file into the chapel. Dozens of men start catching up, chuckling and ribbing each other.

Then a different sound fills the room as four men in the corner of the room start singing in synchronicity. A wave of harmonic warmth washes over the chapel as the quartet plays with their respective pitches.

The Chorus of the Keys is Sarasota’s oldest barbershop/a cappella organization, celebrating its 65th anniversary season. Founded in spring 1949, the male choir

“I think it’s this organization’s life blood. If we didn’t feel like we’re a community, then we wouldn’t be able to sing together.”

ervation and Encouragement of Barbershop Quartet Singing in American (commonly known as the Barbershop Harmony Society) has been singing at concerts, events and private functions all across Florida. The communal and open feeling that started the choir still keeps it thriving today.

“I think it’s this organization’s life blood,” says Byron Poore, 36, director of the Chorus of the Keys.

“If we didn’t feel like we’re a community, then we wouldn’t be able to sing together.”

The Chorus of the Keys holds open rehearsals every Tuesday evening as it prepares for this year’s annual show, titled “Through the Years.” On this night, eight new men sat in on rehearsal. Some were recent arrivals to the Sarasota area with decades of a cappella experience.

Some were imports for the winter season yearning for a few hours of spontaneous singing.

“The harmony got me hooked,” says Tom Hankins, 76, president of the Chorus of the Keys. “When you ring the chords, it’s really fantastic.”

This aligning of the chords is the moment when the leads, tenors, bass and baritone sections align their pitches and notes. The result with the approximately 50 singers in attendance is a crystalline sound that rings through the chapel as they rehearse classic barbershop songs, or “ole polecats,” and more contemporary rock songs arranged for barbershop.

“I had never sung a lick of music before I joined,” says Patrick Kilbane, 35, vice president of chapter development. “When I realized that I could sing and hit a chord, I was hooked.”

Byron Poore, Chorus of the Keys director

IF YOU GO

‘Through the Years’ When: 2:30 and 7 p.m. Feb. 21 Where: Riverview Performing Arts Center, 1 Ram Way Tickets: $20 to $35 Info: Visit chorusofthekeys.org.

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Andrew Rack, Nancy Natilser, Tom and Marjie Peter

Ringling Underground 154199

Thursday, Feb. 5, at The Ringling Left: John Greske, Anthony Paul and Eddie Midler

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Dia Dearstyne, Paul Herbig and Jordan Sobel

Guest Conductor: Carlos Miguel Prieto Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique explodes with desire and energy. This story of unrequited love is music powered by the fervor and sheer force of a large orchestra.

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Tickets from $30 941-953-3434 www.SarasotaOrchestra.org Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

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Asolo Rep’s production of “Both Your Houses,” runs through April 12.

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Read film critic Pam Nadon’s review of ‘Mr. Turner’

159317

THEATER CRITIC

Our story: An idealistic, young crusader is elected to the House of Representatives. He discovers he’s really the tool of a corrupt political machine. His first assignment is pushing a porkfilled bill through Congress. He turns on the powerful interests that got him elected and opposes the bill. The fight is on.

You’re probably thinking “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.”

Actually, in this story, the aptly named Mr. McClean (Tom Coiner) is the one who goes to Washington. He’s the protagonist of Maxwell Anderson’s “Both Your Houses.” Anderson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning 1933 play is now in session at the Asolo Rep. Idealist that he is, having landed on the House Appropriations Committee, McClean immediately sabotages the campaign promise that got him elected. The heart of the bill: “deficiency” appropriations for a dam in his water- and electricity-starved district in Nevada. (An obvious reference to the Depression-era Hoover Dam, kids.) The dam is just a few million dollars shy of being built.

But, Dudley Do-Right that he is, McClean goes off on a tear when he’s shocked to discover that the Nevada construction industry helped fund his campaign.

Beyond that, the dam’s $40 million true cost has been padded with pork at the behest of various lobbyists and local interests.

So, despite the good the dam will do, McClean’s going to fight it — even at the cost of his political career. Damn the dam! It’s the principle of the thing.

May Thomas Jefferson forgive me, but I find myself siding with Doug Jones’ cheerfully corrupt Rep. Solomon “Sol” Fitzmaurice character. McClean, evidently, took those “How Your Government Works” flow charts seriously. This pork is how it really works. Doesn’t he know that?

His father was a muckraking newspaper publisher. C’mon.

But everybody loves an idealistic crusader — even a doomed one. (Just ask Don Quixote.) On top of that, Anderson’s morality play comes with “West Wing”style crosstalk, “Sopranos”-style Machiavellian machinations

IF YOU GO

“Both Your Houses” runs through April 12, at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Call 351-8000 or visit asolorep.org for more information.

and snappy dialogue worthy of a screwball comedy. By special dispensation, Director Frank Galati has trimmed Anderson’s 1933 three-act script to a breezy two acts. The fast pace works for the often-hilarious material and adds to McClean’s down-therabbit-hole disorientation as he tumbles into the upside-down world of Beltway politics.

The actors populating this world draw you into the mad logic of it all. Coiner’s naïve Mr. McClean isn’t always Mr. Nice Guy. He’s willing to destroy lives — up to a point. There’s something scary about his idealism, which he deftly brings across.

David Breitbarth plays Simeon Gray, the committee chairman, with gravitas and intelligence.

Gray is as much of a statesman as he can be in the land of quid pro quo; he’s one of the lives McClean might destroy.

Jones’ standout portrayal of the besotted Fitzmaurice is worthy of W.C. Fields. (Jones is always great at lovable rogues.) Carolyn Michel’s character is a rare female representative with a rare sense of ethics. Gracie Lee Brown and Katie Cunningham are fine as two female assistants; their smart, funny crosstalk has the perfect screwball comedy vibe.

Russell Metheny’s set conveying this surreality was a knockout: a sliding room ratcheting to become either a meeting room or Simeon’s office as needed.

Behind it all lies an extreme close-up of the Capitol dome with storm clouds gathering.

And a storm is definitely coming.

Like Mr. Smith, Mr. McClean pulls a clever stunt to throw a wrench in the political machine.

Instead of a filibuster, he crams the bill with every slice of pork possible. He makes it so obviously corrupt that he’s certain it’ll tank. After all, there’s a limit to the corruption that even Capitol Hill can stand.

The kid’s got a lot to learn.

ARTS + CULTURE

Kara Shay Thomson is ‘Tosca’ JUNE LEBELL MUSIC CRITIC

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

FABULOUS ARTS BOUTIQUE One-of-a-kind Clothing, Jewelry, Art Quilts, Purses, Baskets, Hand Wovens, Hand Knits, Unique Yarns, Art Dolls, Gifts, Paper Arts, Scarves, Collages, Wraps, Throws, Wall Hangings, and so much more!

Opening Reception: Wednesday|Feb. 11|6-8:30pm ($10 donation - FAB has designated South Gate’s Renovation Fund as the beneficiary.)

Show Hours:

Thursday - Saturday|Feb. 12 - 14 10am-4pm

Admission: $2 per person 161947

South Gate Community Center 3145 South Gate Circle • Sarasota www.fabsarasota.com

You’re Invited to a Special Night of Beauty

Thursday, February 19 • 5:30-7pm

“When Puccini named his opera ‘Tosca,’ he did it because Floria Tosca is the very essence of the melodrama. At this season’s Sarasota Opera production, Kara Shay Thomson’s rendition of the title role proves the point.

She is Tosca.” — June LeBell house. He was just a little too refined to be Scarpia, and, even though his words struck terror in our hearts, his voice and demeanor were just a shade too beautiful.

Puccini also triumphs in this “Tosca.” A great man of the theater, there’s not a note or chord of this opera that doesn’t mean something. In the second act, when Tosca has managed to defeat (kill) Scarpia, every musical accent has a stage command: chord, see the knife.

Chord, pick up the knife. Chord, stab Scarpia. Chord, wipe the blood off your hands. Chord, place candlesticks around the body. Chord (drumroll), put the crucifix on his chest. It’s brilliant writing. And stage director Martha Collins made sure every one of Puccini’s directions was realized seamlessly.

Conductor Victor DeRenzi and his orchestral forces reinforced the drama onstage just as Puccini directed. The excellence of the cello quartet followed by the haunting sound of the clarinet would be hard to surpass in the last act as Davila sang “E lucevan le stelle” with great passion and warmth.

This “Tosca” belongs, vocally and dramatically, to Tosca. But it’s also a true ensemble piece, and, no matter how many times you’ve seen the work, this production deserves another visit.

Enjoy light bites and information on our newest fillers, skincare products and procedures.

RSVP 941.951.2220 Space is limited.

Amazing giveaways and discounts for attendees! Bring a friend!

HOLLY L. BARBOUR, M.D. Pratt Institute, Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Case Western Reserve University, MD and Residency in Ophthalmology Duke University Medical Center, Fellowship in Oculofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

The Skill of a Surgeon The Eye of an Artist and The Understanding of a Woman 1250 South Tamiami Trail | Sarasota 941.951.2220 | www.hollybarbourmd.com

cabaret

mainstage “Action packed”

“Richly entertaining”

- The Washington Post

-Venice Gondolier

by Trey Ellis & Ricardo Khan

“Compelling” - Washingtonian

“Superior piece of theatrical synergy” - The New York Times

“Powerful singing” -Venice Gondolier

Ben Mackel and Joe Casey. Photo by Carla Varisco.

IF YOU GO “Tosca” runs through March 28, at the Sarasota Opera. Call 3668450 or visit sarasotaopera.org for more information.

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Rafael Davila and Kara Shay Thomson star in Puccini’s “Tosca.”

Join Dr. Holly Barbour and her cosmetically trained staff for an educational and fun evening.

Richard Hopkins, Artistic Director

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

366-9000 �oridastudiotheatre.org

1241 N. Palm Avenue, Downtown Sarasota

FST IMPROV - FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS @ 7:30PM

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Courtesy

Terrell Wheeler, Shane Taylor, and Greg Brostrom. Photo by Maria Lyle.

There’s a story that purports to be true about “Tosca.” At the turn of the 20th century, at a performance at the Met, the general manager, Giulio GattiCasazza, managed to forget to hire the soldiers who are supposed to shoot Mario Cavaradossi in the last act. He heard there were several students from Columbia University in the audience and, assuming they were probably smart and could follow directions, he rounded them up, put them in costume and told them all they had to do was “shoot the lead.” The students astutely assumed “the lead” was Tosca. After all, the opera was named after her. So, instead of killing the tenor, they shot the soprano.

When Puccini named his opera “Tosca,” he did it because Floria Tosca is the very essence of the melodrama. At this season’s Sarasota Opera production, Kara Shay Thomson’s rendition of the title role proves the point. She is Tosca.

From the moment she sings her first notes, “Mario, Mario, Mario,” and sweeps into the magnificent church, to her dazzling “Vissi d’arte,” the night is hers. Her even, huge and beautiful soprano even outshines David P. Gordon’s glorious interior of Sant’Andrea della Valle in the first act, the majestic study of the evil Scarpia in his Farnese Palace in the second and the glistening stars and unfolding of dawn stunningly hanging over the parapets of the Castel Sant’Angelo in the last act.

Tosca is a great singer in Rome.

She’s beautiful, glamorous and talented. But she’s also filled with an unreasoning jealousy.

Her lover, Mario Cavaradossi, may be a talented artist, but he also manages to get himself in hot water without much effort.

He sees a beautiful woman praying at the church, and he paints her face into his mural, arousing Tosca’s suspicions. He helps a political prisoner, sung with passion by Young Bok Kim, and finds himself thrown into prison, tortured and, eventually, put before a firing squad.

Tenor Rafael Davila, who’s sung numerous roles with Sarasota Opera and is now a leading tenor in many major houses, just keeps getting better. His Cavaradossi is both heroic and melancholy. And his voice, especially the top, positively shines.

And then there’s the evil Scarpia, who is a baron in charge of the police. Scarpia is, without a doubt, one of the baddest baddies in opera. A sadist, murderer and, probably, rapist, he’s not a nice guy. Of course he wants Tosca, and he gets off on having her primarily because she doesn’t want him. Cavaradossi becomes his wedge; his way of getting to her without making nice.

Mark Walters was the elegant Baron Scarpia on opening night.

(The role will be sung later in the run by Todd Thomas.) Walters’ voice is warm, round, rich and big, but it’s a little too beautiful for Scarpia. Both his singing and his characterization lack that overriding edge that makes you fear Scarpia, even if you’re sitting in the last row of the opera

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FOOD + COOKING

ARTS + CULTURE

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

Mark Crawford

RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

Bartender (Wednesday through Sunday) Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion Restaurant 2001 Siesta Drive RANDI DONAHUE CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Q: You’ve been with Roy’s for four-and-a-half years; how long have you been tending bar?

A: I have been behind bars for 27 years. I’m originally from the Baltimore/Washington, D.C., area and started off in concert venues. Like everyone else, I thought it was a great way to meet girls, get cheap drinks and see the bands that I liked. It kind of evolved from there.

Q: What was your influence to become a bartender?

A: Well, obviously the show “Cheers.” I mean, this was the late 1980s. I watched the show “Cheers,” and it looked like a lot of fun. We all want to be Woody and Sam. Q: What is your favorite cocktail to make?

A: Any drink that takes a little work to make: a mojito, a bourbon old-fashioned. I like the craft cocktail industry. If I can show effort in making a craft cocktail, that is what’s going to get people to come to me.

Q: If someone asks for your signature drink, what would

you make?

A: An old-school, Texas-style margarita with muddled lime and fresh agave, served in a short glass. No sweet and sour, keeping the ingredients simple.

Q: What’s the worst or strangest drink request you’ve ever received?

A: It’s more so the ones that break your heart a little bit.

Like when people ask for the Louis XIII with ginger ale.

Those are the things that typically stand out more: the 18-year-old scotch with Coke.

I’d say it’s the same impression the kitchen people get when they’re asked for a well-done filet and bottle of ketchup.

Q: What is your personal drink of choice?

A: Because I like to make margaritas, I am a tequila guy at heart, so the margarita I’d make for a customer is what I’d also want to drink. But, then again, a bourbon old-fashioned if somebody really knows how to make one goes straight to my heart. What I like to make is what I like to drink.

Q: How important is the shape of the ice cube?

A: I like the physics behind the shaped ice cubes. I think it’s a

Randi Donahue

cool idea and the thought that you are going to get less ice meltage is a fantastic idea. If someone wants bourbon on the rocks and they don’t want it to turn to mush in 15 minutes — it’s a great idea. They present well and they work. I am a big fan.

Q: If you weren’t a bartender you’d be a …

A: Teacher — elementary education. I went to school for psychology and education. But I found out that as much as I loved kids, I didn’t love their parents.

Q: What are some fun facts most customers would never guess about you?

A: I have four daughters: Zoe, 18, Gillian, 13, Brenna, 10, and Kenzi, 2 months old. I homeschool my kids. I do pet rescue.

Animals and kids: That’s what my wife, Ashley, and I are all about.

Q: What is the most recommended drink on the menu?

A: Right now we do this really cool martini that uses ginger beer, ginger root and cucumber and is topped with this ginger candy. It’s light and refreshing.

It incorporates what I like to do, which is make a drink with fresh flavors.

Q: What is your favorite part about bartending?

A: I like that I have no idea what to expect when I come to work. Every day is different. I tried for two months to get out of the business 15 years ago. I got a job selling cars, and that was the most miserable two months of my life. It was boring and there was no joy.

On a day here I can meet any number of very cool people and learn a lot about the world.

WORLD CLASS THEATRE • MADE IN SARASOTA

INSIDE ASOLO REP

Now playing–April 12

Douglas Jones and David Breitbarth. Photo by Cliff Roles.

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EXCEPTIONAL Service EXTRAORDINARY Care

OUR BETTERS March 13–April 19 | Previews March 11 & 12

Wednesday • February 25, 2015 • 11AM Cook Theatre, 5555 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243 Featuring Asolo Rep producing artistic director Michael Donald Edwards (Our Betters), director Frank Galati (Both Your Houses), and actress Katie Cunningham (Both Your Houses, Our Betters) discussing both these intriguing plays. Inside Asolo Rep invites you to hear from the creative artists responsible for producing the work you see on stage. Join us and be a true insider! Come early and enjoy coffee and pastries in the lobby!

Michael Donald Edwards, producing artistic director

Frank Galati, director (Both Your Houses)

Katie Cunningham, actress (Both Your Houses, Our Betters)

$5 For General Public • Free for Asolo Rep Guild members and donors.

Tickets are available by calling the box office at 941.351.8000.

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Sotto Voce | MARCH 25

SPONSORED BY 159978

Save the date for this season’s final Inside Asolo Rep discussion:

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10/16/14 4:08 PM

Starry Night Dinner A celebration of the production of ‘Our Betters’ 14 Fashion Insider: Valentine’s Day Fall in love this Valentine’s Day with these fab finds. 18

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

Photos by Heather Merriman

Above: Kent and Aimee Anderson. Right: Honorary Chair Cornelia Matson, Co-Chairs Margaret Wise, Janelle Beruff and Ariane Dart, Christine Johnson and Co-Chair Mickey Davis

The Palm Ball ‘A PASSION FOR CONSERVATION’ Benefiting Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast Saturday, Feb. 7, at Bay Preserve | Honorary Chair: Cornelia Matson Co-Chairs: Janelle Beruff, Ariane Dart, Mickey Davis and Margaret Wise 275 guests | More than $200,000 raised at the event

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bove all, the elegance of The Palm Ball is what sets it apart from the rest. Every year, the focus is to ensure that the mission of conservation is expressed and in doing so, what might be the most elegant event of the year takes place on the grounds of Bay Preserve at Historic Spanish Point.

With The Palm Ball being the week before Valentine’s Day, the chairs didn’t want that as the theme, but the idea of passion surfaced and the theme “Passion for Conservation” was decided on to reflect the organization’s deep desire for saving land. The theme lent itself to romantic, yet sophisticated elegance for the décor.

The tent on the grounds of Bay Preserve was decorated with black and white damask tablecloths, lush raspberry napkins, silver and crystal, tent poles transformed into white glittery palm trees and raspberry passion bromeliads. Red crotons brought the color palette together. Chandeliers hung from the oak trees, string lights were roped throughout the grounds and 275 guests dressed in black tie attire (suggested gown colors were red, pink and black) set the stage for the evening.

It really was a passionate affair.

HEATHER MERRIMAN | BLACK TIE EDITOR

Jon Thaxton, Jessica Swift, Bill Johnson and Robert Gregory

Dr. Sid and Anita Holec with Mary Evelyn Guyton and Adrian Gadd

Ann and Tom Charters

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

Goodbye, Dear Friend

Edith Barr Dunn,

October 20, 1920 - February 4, 2015

A dear friend to so many, a mentor to so many more, you touched thousands of hearts with your humor, wisdom, generosity and tough love.

You are so loved and you have left a fathomless hole in our hearts.

Quite Simply, Edith, You are the Very Best.

I miss you so much already, Edith.

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Dr. Braun and Jeanne Graham have an exciting year coming up — both of their children, Worth and Lauren, are engaged to be married. Worth Graham proposed to girlfriend Erin Evanson on the beach in Naples at sunset Nov. 15 (they will be tying the knot March 12, 2016, at The Field Club). Soon after Worth popped the question, daughter Lauren Graham was proposed to by boyfriend John Wohlwend on the beach at The Ritz-Carlton Beach Club at sunset on Jan. 30 — let the planning begin!

Molly Schechter

Friendship Centers Gala co-chairs Dawn and Mike Bear

Mike Bear, the general manager of DEX imaging, is a young man whose relationship with Friendship Centers started out as strictly business. It changed, however. Over the course of 10 years, the more he learned, the more he cared: “I saw how the organization fills a big need that communities along the west coast of Florida have to give seniors a purpose.” And that is how he and his wife, Dawn, became co-chairs for the sixth annual Friendship Centers gala.

Their idea for the March 12 party at the Friendship Center is to make it “a cultural smorgasbord of fun” with food and entertainment representing

Dick June 941-724-2353 941-951-1822

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BLACK TIE STAFF Love is in the air…

Friendship goes global

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

all seven continents. You may think that Coto Paxi is an Ecuadorian volcano, and most days it is. But for this party, Chef Paul Mattison is executing it as a chocolate truffle — a trifle on a seriously multinational menu. The entertainment features everything from the local Spotlight Kids (singing “It’s a Small World After All,” of course) to Jacobite bagpipers and Irish cloggers. There will be a silent auction and a paddle raise to fund a muchneeded new phone system for the Sarasota center, but the focus, the Bears and their team promise, will be on fun.

You can participate as a guest for $150; sponsorships start at $500. For more information, call Cheryl Pilch at 556-3205.

Worth Graham and Erin Evanson

Courtesy photos

John Wohlwend and Lauren Graham

Big success under the big top The Jan. 30 Circus Arts gala honored the memory of Tana Sandefur, a passionate supporter of the Circus Arts Conservatory from its earliest days. Janet Hunter, another longtime circus patriot, recalls the inaugural party had 15 tables, no more than 150 guests and that the team “thought we had died and gone to heaven” because it raised $32,000 — a big number in those days.

Tidbits Superbowl round-up … Three generations of Patriots fans gathered at the home of Gordon Greenfield and voted the Budweiser lost puppy commercial as best-of-show … Alison and Hardy Schwartz also had three generations with the arrival of her snowbird mom and stepfather from Toronto … Phil Mancini went to a friend’s house expecting to be one of 20 or so and ended up one of 75, most of them in Patriots’ shirts and all of them bringing food. “If you could barbecue it or if your Italian mother could make it, we had it.” … an anonymous (for obvious reasons) friend reported being teased when she asked what inning the game was in …

Allen and Stephanie Hochfelder were at the home of Roberta and Jim Fox with Joe and Marty Marsh, all but one of them disappointed Seattle fans ... Cheryl MadLauchlin watched Turner Classic Movies because Alasdair is not an American football fan … last words go to Joan Mendell

How satisfying it must be for CAC founders Pedro Reis and his wife, Dolly Jacobs, that the community came out so strongly to celebrate Sandefur and the circus. One of Sandefur’s big goals was the renovation of the Sailor Circus Arena and the gala included a paddle raise dedicated to that. A donor had promised to match up to $50,000, guests came up with $38,000 and at the end, the infamous anonymous matched that … raising a total of $114,000 for the project. and her partner Bob Coppenrath who, as they announced to nearly 100 guests in 2014, discontinued their Superbowl party after a 20-year run. Now that must have been fun! … You gotta love this …

Thanks go to the nameless person who told Edie Chaifetz “At your age, you don’t have to remember names … you can just say, ‘Introduce yourselves.’” BT hopes he or she meant it … A pop art collection to die for… Mark and Kim Standish hosted Starry Night Dinner Feb. 2 and while Laura Stuart Wood’s themes and décor are typically the topic of the hour, the couple’s art collection was the buzz all night.

Heather Merriman

Mark and Kim Standish’s art

2095 Siesta Drive Sarasota, Fl siestainteriorsfl.com

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

Sarasota Newcomers Club Mardi Gras Gala

Gary Sweetman with Melanie and Sean Natarajan

Sunday, Feb. 8, at Sarasota Yacht Club Benefiting Sarasota Newcomers Club

Starry Night Dinner 3 — Celebrating the Production of ‘Our Betters’

Above: Ken Richmond with Dick and Betty Oberdorf

Monday, Feb. 2, at a private home Benefiting Asolo Repertory Theatre

Co-Chair Teresa and John Phillips Above: Chairwoman Isabelle Eidet

Photos by Heather Merriman

Above: Co-Hosts Kim and Mark Standish Right: The event was themed to the 1920s, with a suggested dress code described as elegant and distinguished.

Martha and Mike Gaffney with Teresa and Royce Morris

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St. Armands Krewe Presents

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Saturday, March 7, 2015 Sarasota Polo Club, Lakewood Ranch

3:00 pm 4:00 pm 6:00 pm 7:00 pm

Gates Open Polo Match Begins Cocktails & Hors d’oeuvres Dinner & Dancing

6:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. Live Entertainment

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Circle Restaur & Shops

Everyone is welcome! Please join us for our 5th Anniversary of polo and fun as we raise money for advances in research, education and the treatment of cancer.

Featuring Sarasota High School Theater/Dra ma Joe Bruno’s New Orleans Department

Since 2011 we have raised over $1 million.

With your help we can continue to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families everywhere.

Meet The MARDI GRAS KING! Join the “Second Line” and strut around the circle with us.

Costumes Welcomed.

Meet at the St. Armands Circle Lutheran Church by 5:45 pm to line up!

Hot Dogs

For sponsorships call 941.928.9296.

Dixieland Band 6:00 - 7:00 around the Circle

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Let Freedom Ring Luncheon

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Photos by Heather Merriman

Co-Chairs Audrey Coleman and Dr. Willa Bernhard with keynote speaker Charlayne Hunter-Gault

Complimentary Dance Lesson with this ad

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Monday, Feb. 2, at Sarasota Yacht Club Benefiting Women’s Resource Center of Sarasota County

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St. Armands Circle • 22 N. Blvd. of the Presidents • Sarasota, FL 34236 3976 Destination Drive • Osprey, FL 34229

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

A PASSION FOR FASHION

at The Palm Ball

HEATHER MERRIMAN

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BLACK TIE EDITOR

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Sally Trout’s vintage purse (which she found at a consignment shop in Naples), red with jewels, was a perfect match for the evening.

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Janae Rudacille’s fabulous Badgley Mischka clutch

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PEO P L E W IT H PUR POSE STACY HANAN HEATHER MERRIMAN BLACK TIE EDITOR

A

I’VE BEEN involved with nonprofits from the time I moved here to Sarasota 17 years ago.

I’m originally from Memphis, Tenn., and I went to college at The University of Texas at Austin, where I met my husband, Ben, who was born and raised in Sarasota.

AFTER MOVING here, I got

very involved at Temple Beth Sholom Schools, where my daughters went to preschool.

I joined Junior League shortly after that to meet people and learn about volunteering and the Sarasota community. I became the chair of the board of the preschool at Temple Beth — that was my first leadership role experience. At that point, I was also getting involved with The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. I started joining more and more committees, chairing events and working to get younger people involved with the Federation.

I CAN’T remember how many

years ago it was, I would guess seven to eight years ago, I was invited to a Girls Inc. luncheon

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lthough her involvement began at Temple Beth Sholom Schools and the Junior League of Sarasota, Stacy Hanan has expanded her volunteerism to the nonprofits most important in this stage of her life — The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee and Girls Inc. Hanan, 45, says despite juggling the demands of a busy schedule as a working mom, giving back remains one of her priorities.

OCCUPATION:

Realtor with Michael Saunders & Co.

INVOLVED IN NONPROFITS: 17 years

HER FAVORITE EVENTS:

Girls Inc. Celebration Luncheon, Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee’s Women’s Day Luncheon, Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s Key to the Cure, Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s Better Together luncheon

CURRENTLY INVOLVED WITH:

The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee (board member) and Girls Inc. (luncheon committee member)

and I was just blown away. I was so impressed by the organization. I remember walking in and the girls met you in the hallway by looking you

Heather Merriman

in the eye, shaking your hand and introducing themselves.

Looking people in the eye and firm handshakes are things my husband and I have taught our children to always do, and it reminded me of how we have raised them. Having three daughters, that just spoke to me. After hearing the strong, smart and bold mission, I knew right away I wanted to take that home with me.

I’VE ALWAYS focused my

volunteering on where my life has been at the time. Jewish continuity is first and foremost

in my life. I want my kids to understand the importance of Judaism and keeping that continuity.

in our community. I think it’s important to know that it’s not impossible.

A LOT of what I do is for my

involved in Sarasota is difficult to avoid because there are so many opportunities to give back. It’s interesting because once you get involved, you begin to realize your purpose and why it’s important to you.

For me, I love this community — that’s why I enjoy selling real estate. I sell this community and I want to give back to this community. I want to make a difference in people’s lives.

I ALMOST feel like being

kids to see us giving back, to set an example for them so they will do that as well. My husband is also very involved in nonprofits, and it’s our purpose to be role models of that because both of our parents were role models of that for us. My husband and I both have very busy careers and three daughters, but it’s still so important to be involved

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St. ArmAndS • Venice • engLewood dr. thompSon | dr. weerASooriyA reStorAtiVe | coSmetic | impLAnt

Please call or visit our conveniently located office in the lobby of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel for your personal tour of these unique Residences and Penthouses as well as an overview of the unrivaled world-class services and amenities of The Ritz-Carlton.

PICTURED The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Residences – Priced from $898,000 The Ritz-Carlton Tower Residences – Priced from $1,900,000 The Ritz-Carlton Beach Residences – Priced from $1,089,000

Luxury

Knows No Limits

Call us today for concierge dental care beyond the ordinary.

Beth Afflebach & Joan Dickinson, realtors® 941.737.1756 & 941.914.0496 BethAfflebach@michaelsaunders.com JoanDickinson@michaelsaunders.com

SarasotaHotelCondos.com

Ask us about our Referral Rewards Programs.

St. ArmAndS • 544 John ringling Blvd. • Sarasota, FL 34236 941-388-4114 • tarponShoresdental.com

1111 Ritz-Carlton Drive • Sarasota, FL 34236 Toll Free: 800.555.7784 or 941.364.8884

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Tarpon Shores

At Tarpon Shores Dental, we emphasize exceptional, personalized service that delivers dazzling results – from gentle cleaning appointments to the most complex procedures.

Every aspect of our higher standard of care was developed with your complete comfort in mind.

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Exceptional Care Behind Every Smile.

he Ritz-Carlton Residences offer redefined luxury in one of the world’s most desirable and exclusive locations. From spectacular Penthouses overlooking the shimmering waters of the bay and the sparkling city lights to opulent beach Residences with endless Gulf views; the Ritz-Carlton lifestyle is truly unparalleled.

Enjoy all the amenities and world-class services offered by The Ladies & Gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton, including concierge services, 24-hour in-room dining and valet parking. Membership to the exclusive Ritz-Carlton Members Club is available and offers a spa, a private beach club and The Ritz-Carlton Golf and Country Club designed by Tom Fazio.

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

FAS HI O N INS I D ER VALENTINE’S DAY FEVER HEATHER MERRIMAN BLACK TIE EDITOR

P

eople seem to be polarized about Valentine’s Day — they either love it, or they hate it. No matter which camp you’re in, you can’t avoid all things red, pink and hearts. But this holiday shouldn’t just be about the ooey-gooey lovebirds. It should be a time for immersing yourself in all of the love-stamped items that the holiday inspires. Black Tie was feeling pink and sparkly, so we shopped around town to see what fun things we could find in the spirit of Valentine’s Day.

Trina Turk cocktail dress, $358, at L. Boutique

The Aestate fashion illustration, $20, at Influence Style

Trish McEvoy Precious Pink Jasmine, $185, at The Met Fashion House & Day Spa

Lauren Cecchi lipstick red Sorella, $495, at T. Georgiano’s

Valentine’s Day card, $6, at Write-On Sarasota

Courtesy photos

Ray-Ban aviator sunglasses, $170, at Sunglass Express Optical

Edie Parker “Jean Heart Acrylic Clutch,” $1,995, at Saks Fifth Avenue Sarasota

Luxury Living Made Real

You are cordially invited to attend Ave Maria Preparatory School

Life on Teahouse Island is as casual or formal as you wish. Friends appreciate the gated palm-lined drive and guesthouse while children love to run free watching fish and manatees, playing tennis, splashing in the pool, and walking the seawall as the tide ebbs and flows. From holiday gatherings to elegant dinners with Florida’s Governors, Bayview Cottage has opened its French doors to coastal breezes, spectacular sunsets and those who embrace life.

Miracle Fest Awards Dinner Honoring

Bob Rosinsky

with the 2015 Archangel Award

Featured Listing | McClellan Park Bayview Cottage on Teahouse Island 1+ acre private island with dock $8,995,000

And special guest Joy Weston Internationally Published Best-selling Author Thursday, March 12, 2015

6:00pm—9:00pm Lakewood Ranch Country Club Tickets: $150/pp Sponsorship Opportunities Available

Albert Joerger, PhD | 941.685.6145

Live and Silent Auction

www.amuprep.org

Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity Property information herein is derived from various sources including but not limited to county records and the multiple listing service, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

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This award is given annually to a person who has gone above and beyond to help those with special learning needs and exemplifies the true meaning of leadership in our community. This individual has truly improved the quality of life for others.

Mistress of Ceremonies Susan Nilon Owner of WSRQ Radio and Host of “The Nilon Report”

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Archangel Award

BLACK TIE

YourObserver.com

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

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MARINA WALK RESORT VACATION VILLAS

GRAND OPENING Limited-time, pre-construction pricing from the $500s!

A Rare Ownership Opportunity On Florida’s Last Private Island

Overlooking Anna Maria Sound just moments from Anna Maria Island, the incomparable private island community of Harbour Isle proudly introduces our latest addition of waterfront residences, Marina Walk.

With the option to place your villa residence in a vacation rental program, this all-new collection of low-maintenance villas represents an incredible opportunity.

Florida’s Best Kept Secret

Harbour Isle overlooks the open waters of Anna Maria Sound and Anna Maria Island, named one of the Sunshine State’s “10 Best Secret Beaches” by USA Today/10Best.com and one of only four “Old, Classic Florida” destinations by the Wall St. Journal.

Harbour Isle Amenities Include:

Waterfront Beach Club • Private Clubhouse • 4 Resort-Style Pools • Fitness Center Kayak Launch • Sky Bar Lounge • Event Lawn • Sandy Beach • 3 Neighborhood Amenities Planned Marina with Wet and Dry Storage, Restaurants, Shops and More

Located on Florida’s last private island, this rare opportunity is not to be missed!

No CDD fees! Unlike other communities, Harbour Isle does not burden you with Community Development District (CDD) fees, which saves you thousands of dollars during your home ownership.

LIVE LIKE YOU’RE ON PERMANENT VACATION IN THE WARM FLORIDA SUNSHINE! Opening Summer 2015

Anna Maria Island & Beaches

Beach Club Under Construction

GRAND OPENING

Vacation Villas & Amenity COMING SOON Marina, Shops & Restaurants

Edgewater Walk Coach Homes & Amenity

Mangrove Walk Coach Homes & Amenity SOLD OUT

FINAL PHASE CLOSE OUT

(888) 358-8565

~ mintofla.com

12300 Manatee Ave. West, Bradenton, FL 34209 • Located on SR-64 West, just before the Anna Maria Island Bridge in Bradenton

© Minto Communities, LLC 2015. Not an offer where prohibited by state statutes. All rights reserved. Content may not be reproduced, copied, altered, distributed, stored or transferred in any form or by any means without express written permission Artist’s renderings, dimensions, specifications, prices and features are approximate and subject to change without notice. Minto, the Minto logo, Harbour Isle and the Harbour Isle logo are trademarks of Minto Communities, LLC and/or its affiliates. CGC 1519880. 2/2015

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For location, hours of operation and further details about our award-winning communities throughout Florida, visit mintofla.com.

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YourObserver.com

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2015

PoshPlum-SarasotaObserver-FP-4-WithNowHire_Layout 1 2/9/15 10:53 AM Page 1

NOW OPEN

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in Sarasota!

Shop Monday to Saturday 10am-5pm

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consign • Deep Discounts on Like-New

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hen we wanted to update

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• Elegant Showrooms in Naples,

our look, we called on the experts ®

at Posh Plum to help. They were able to secure the highest resale

Bonita Springs and Grand Opening Monday, February 2 in Sarasota!

value for our furnishings – AND – with the exciting styles they offered, we created a new look for our home!

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at Sarasota@theposhplum.com

• Highest Resale Value for your items • SW Florida’s Premier Furniture 161682

Field Rd

41

•

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Riverwood Ave

Join the team of Sarasota's exciting new consignment showroom! Send resumes to Sarasota@theposhplum.com

Camino Real

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Shop Monday through Saturday 10am to 5pm • Closed Sunday Phone 941.312.4527 • Email: sarasota@theposhplum.com