February 2011

FEBRUARY 2011 $3.95 U.S.

Peter Migliaccio’s Café Gabbiano Masterfully Creating Perfection

CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY FOR 54 YEARS

Dining & EntertainmentTHE NEW HOLLYWOOD | SARASOTA’S ART “INTERSECTIONS”

JIMMY ARIAS ON ROGER, RAFA & THE 2011 PRO TOUR

http://www.cafegabbiano.com

For those who appreciate the

If you enjoy fine wine and creative cuisine, make plans to join

us for an exceptional dinner and fabulous show, featuring

classical pianist, Richard Dowling. Mr. Dowling appears regularly

in solo recitals and as a guest soloist with orchestras at music

festivals across the United States. An artist of international stature,

he has been acclaimed by audiences for his elegant and exciting

style. Mr. Dowling is currently preparing a critical multi-volume

edition of Ravel’s pianoworks for Lugwig/MasterMusic Publications.

Resident presentation, dinner and show

Friday, February 18 • 4 p.m.RESERVATIONS REQUIRED.

Please call (941) 798-8122 today to secure your seat!

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Bradenton, FL 34209

www.brookdaleliving.com

Exceptional Experiences Every Day is a Service Mark of BrookdaleSenior Living Inc., Nashville, TN, USA. 51280EF-ROP01-0211

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Dining & EntertainmentFebruary 2011 Volume 54 No. 2

43 Peter Migliaccio's Café Gabbiano Susan Cullen

46 The Intersection of Art, Culture & Society A Closer Look at Downtown

Sarasota's "Intersections" Project Ryan G. Van Cleave

50 Tennis Icon Jimmy Arias Around the World with Roger & Rafa Ray Collins

53 The New Hollywood Sarasota's Bid To Lure Filmmakers Steven J. Smith

60 Circle of Confusion How St. Armands Got Its Name Sue Blue

contentsfeaturesfortythree

6050

46

Cover / Peter Migliaccio and family invite you to experience superbly prepared meals and fine wines at Café Gabbiano, an oasis of Italian ambiance on Siesta Key. Cover Photo by Cliff Roles

00

Peter Migliaccio’s Café Gabbiano Masterfully Creating Perfection

CONNECTING THE COMMUNITY FOR 54 YEARS

Dining & EntertainmentTHE NEW HOLLYWOOD | SARASOTA’S ART “INTERSECTIONS”

JIMMY ARIAS: AROUND THE WORLD WITH ROGER & RAFA

53

To see samples of our award-winning video documentaries, visit us online:

www.FaithandFreedom.org

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

Stuart J. RothFounder and President

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

Directing Awareness

www.FaithandFreedom.org

7357 Merchant Court � Sarasota, FL 34240 � Phone 941.487.4061 � Fax 941.487.40627357 Merchant Court � Sarasota, FL 34240 � Phone 941.487.4061 � Fax 941.487.4062

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

CFFScene2010x.indd 1 8/6/10 4:02 PM

http://www.faithandfreedom.org

inside10 From the Editor

Julie Milton

16 Events Calendar

32 Arts & Culture

Culture Matters

Arts and Cultural Alliance of Sarasota County

37 Behind the Scene

Debbi Benedict

42 The Ringling Art Experience

Ryan G. Van Cleave

57 Scenes from an Interview

Nate Jacobs

Gus Mollasis

63 Scene Healthy

Advice for Healthy Living

68 Curtain Call

Steven J. Smith

73 Cool Places to Get Your

Groove On

Susan Cullen

82 Locally

socialscene24 A Silver Celebration for JFCS

71 Perlman & Pearls Gala

fiftyseven

73

contents

42

32

71

WALK-IN CENTERS

Patients less than 3 months old cannot be treated at our walk-in centers. They should be seen by their pediatrician or in the event of an emergency, be taken to the nearest ER.

Sarasota Memorial’s Walk-In Medical Centers are here when you

or someone in your family has an urgent health concern. When it isn’t

quite an emergency, but won’t wait for your regular doctor, you can

get the medical care you need from one of ours. Just walk in.

} Convenient. Each of our three Walk-Ins is strategically locatedthroughout the community so that one is sure to be a short drivefrom wherever you are when you need us.

} Fast. Our goal is for patients to be seen by a doctor within 30 minutes. Our Sarasota Memorial physicians are board-certified in emergency and family medicine – so you can trust you’ll get the care you need quickly.

} Easy. If additional treatment is prescribed during your visit, you are easily connected with our hospital’s comprehensiveresources (lab tests, imaging, physical therapy, etc.). No other walk-in/urgent care clinic can say that.

Providing immediate care for health concerns including:

} Lacerations & burns } Urinary problems

} Skin rashes } Flu

} Colds, coughs, sore throats } Physicals (for school, sports,

} Eye injuries job applications, etc.)

} Sprains, strains & fractures

Visit smh.com formaps and directions!

No appointments are necessary.Most insurance plans are accepted and

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3 LOCATIONS OPENMon - Sun, 8 am - 8 pm

1 Walk-In at Heritage Harbour1040 River Heritage Blvd., Bradenton

(941) 917- 6440

2 Walk-In at University Parkway2401 University Parkway, Sarasota

(941) 917- 1234

3 Walk-In at Gulf Gate6130 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

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} Skin rashes } Flu









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February 2011 | scene 10scenesarasota.com

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If you’re a Northerner like me, you may remember the old supper clubs of New York and South

New Jersey – great food, ambiance, a terrific band and a huge dance floor. It was fun to get

dressed to the nines and strut your stuff. Oh, how I wish they were still around!

In this, our Dining and Entertainment issue, Sue Cullen explores some cool local eateries that

are not the supper clubs of yesteryear, but they do combine good food and entertainment for our

enjoyment. From jazz to salsa dancing, to DJs and bands, from piano bars and guitar players,

Sarasota/Bradenton has tons of great places to get your groove on.

If Italian food is your favorite, read our cover story about the superb cuisine and private label

wines at Peter Migliaccio’s Café Gabbiano on Siesta Key. Peter and his family have created a true

home-away-from home atmosphere – comfortable, charming, and very traditional. You’ll feel as if

you’ve been transported to Italy.

But beyond our great local restaurants, we are also making great strides in other areas of

entertainment. Read Steve Smith’s “The New Hollywood”, which will fill you in on our local film

industry. Steve says, “...the greater Sarasota area is on the verge of becoming a Mecca for

television and movie producers.” As we expand our entertainment industry, the economic ripple is

expected to be significant with additional jobs needed in hospitality, retail and other sectors. What

an exciting way to keep our many young creative minds energized and excited and keeping roots

in our community.

If you’re a tennis fan, read Ray Collins’ article about Sarasota’s Jimmy Arias, a former top ten

pro tennis player in the ‘80s, now announcing the big matches for ESPN and the Tennis Channel.

Jimmy entertains us with his knowledge and insight into today’s pro tour, gives his predictions for

the 2011 pro season and shares his personal encounters with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

If you love visual arts, be sure to go on the “Intersections” tour. Ryan Van Cleave tell us about

twelve sculptures in five downtown shopping districts showcasing the works of several local artists.

This issue features a Walking Tour Map so you can be sure to enjoy every work of art.

There’s lots of entertaining reasons to enjoy life in our community. Carpe diem!

scene | from the editor

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Enjoy our country club and golf courses and discover all that Lakewood Ranch has to offer.

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For booking information or a tour, call our Banquet & Catering

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12 scene | February 2011 scenesarasota.com

sceneCEO/Publisher: Ronald Milton

Co-Publisher/Executive Editor: Julie A. Milton

Special Issue Director: Debbi Benedict

Art and Production Director: Michelle Cross

Contributing Writers: Debbi Benedict, Sue Blue, Sue Cullen, Gus Mollasis

Steven J. Smith, Ryan G. Van Cleave

Photographers: Cliff Roles, Carissa Warfield

Principal Office & Mailing Address:1343 Main St, Ste. 201,

Sarasota, FL 34236

941-365-1119 • Fax: 941-954-5067

SCENESARASOTA.COM offers our current and recent issues, a comprehensive calendar of community events, photos of the latest social events and much more!

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

Special Publications:Women On The Scene

Men On The Scene

Doctors On The Scene

Sarasota County Arts Council 2010/2011 Arts & Culture Guide

Locally Owned, Operated & Printed For More Than 54 Years

1

Scene Magazine - Custom TAG DesignSCEx0-001 / Round 1 - 8/26/10Grapevine Communications Int’l Inc. - Advertising Agency

Grapevine Communications Int’l Inc. maintains copyright on all designs, artwork and materials specified herein until full payment of all services and costs is received.

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Tom and I are enthusiastic in our support of the

Van Wezel Foundation as it successfully enriches

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Please Be Our Guest For A Tour

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Sunday, March 13, 2011 – Dinner and Auction

Monday, March 14, 2011 – Golf Tournament 1pm ShotgunWe provide your team a golf pro (or bring your own). The format is a four player Scramble with professional options.

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Put a Team Together & Come Play LAUREL OAK COUNTRY CLUB’S SIGNATURE COURSES

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BENEFITS

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

Ernie B. GarciaSenior Vice President - Wealth Management Senior Investment Management Consultant

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941.364.7405800.237.9441 ext. [email protected] www.fa.smithbarney.com/ernie_garcia

World-class investment advice is an important part of a comprehensive wealth plan. So is advice about your estate, your business, your philanthropic giving, your restricted stock position and your lending needs. At Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, we offer a full range of services to help you grow, protect and transfer your wealth.

Call or email me for a complimentary consultation to discuss how I can help you with your wealth planning goals and objectives.

Wealth Planning You Can Build On

©2010 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC NY CS 6390873 WP001 09/10 2010-PS-1725

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bescene

SMHF Annual Healthcare Education Luncheon 02-03 11:30 am Michael’s On East. Featuring guest speakers discussing Trends in Wom-

en’s Oncology Care. Benefits Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation Inc. Tickets: $25 /

941.917.1286 / smhf.org

Lakewood Ranch Music on Main Street02-04 6:00 pm Main Street, Lakewood Ranch. Featuring country and classic rock music by

Mumbo Jumbo. Open to the public. Benefits Foundation for Dreams. lakewoodranch.com

Vinology: Uncork Your World02-04 7:00 pm South Florida Museum. Enjoy an evening filled with opportunities to eat,

drink, laugh and learn. Wines and beers from around the world will be featured, along

with small bites from the area’s best restaurants. Tickets: $75 / 941.746.4131 ext. 14 /

southfloridamuseum.org

The 4th Annual Palm Ball02-05 6:30 pm Bay Preserve, Osprey. An elegant evening of cocktails, dinner and dancing

under the stars. Benefits the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast. Tickets: $350 & up /

941.918.2100 / conservationfoundation.com

FebruaryCalendarFor a complete listing of community events please visit scenesarasota.com

New Years Eve Downtown Sarasota Pineapple Drop Photo: Cliff Roles

http://www.circussarasota.org

http://www.circussarasota.org


Sarasota Opera Opening Night Gala02-05 7:00 pm Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Celebrate the open-

ing of the season after the performance of La Boheme with

an elegant evening of music, dining and dancing. Tickets:

$225 / 941.366.8450 ext. 402 / sarasotaopera.org

Archie Griff in 2011 Celebrity Golf Classic02-07 & 08 The Concession Golf Club. Golf and mingle with

celebrities including Archie Griffin. Benefits All Children’s

Hospital. 813-817-9022 / concessioncharities.org

Second Hand Rose Fashion Show & Luncheon02-10 10:00 am Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. Shop, dine & enjoy

a fabulous fashion show. Benefits Safe Place & Rape Crisis

Center. Tickets: $95 / 941.365.0208 ext. 106 / sparcc.net

New College at 50 Festival & 50th Anniver-sary Tribute Dinner02-11 & 02-12 10:00 am - 5:00 pm New College Campus. A

weekend full of events, featuring a formal dinner at 6:30 on

Friday evening, hosted by the Ritz-Carlton, to honor and cel-

ebrate the first 50 years of New College. Tickets for dinner:

$250 / 941.487.4685 / 50th.ncf.edu

24th Annual YMCA Black Tie “Moroccan The Casbah” Dinner & Auction02-12 6:00 pm South County Family YMCA. Featuring a fab-

ulous evening of gourmet dining, dancing, bidding and fun at

South County’s premier event of the season. Proceeds ben-

efit the YMCA Children & Family Scholarship Fund. Tickets:

$175 / 941.375.9108 / southcountyfamilyymca.org

heARTS & Flowers – A Valentine Tea02-13 3:00 pm Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. The Selby

Gardens Associates and the artists of Art Center Sarasota

present an “Artragious” Fashion show featuring themed ta-

blescapes, fabulous fashions and “artyfacts” created by the

artists. Benefits the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Tickets:

$45 / 941.921.9442 / selby.org

Tropical Fusion Annual Luncheon02-16 11:00 am Michael’s On East. Featuring a cooking

demonstration by celebrity chef Judi Gallagher, catering by

Phil Mancini and an exciting live auction. Benefits Historic

Spanish Point. Tickets: $75 & up / 941.966.5214 ext. 230 /

historicspanishpoint.org

http://www.theplayers.org

LA BOHÈME

DON GIOVANNI

FEB 5 - MAR 19

PUCCINI

MOZART

FEB 12 - MAR 18

I LOMBARDIVERDI

FEB 26 - MAR 20

THE CRUCIBLEWARD

MARCH 5 - 19

WWW.SARASOTAOPERA.ORG61 N. Pineapple Ave. I (941)328-1300

Paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax revenues

BUY NOW! Tickets start at $19

Opera Season Sponsor

LA BOHÈME

DON GIOVANNI

FEB 5 - MAR 19

PUCCINI

MOZART

FEB 12 - MAR 18

I LOMBARDIVERDI

FEB 26 - MAR 20

THE CRUCIBLEWARD

MARCH 5 - 19





LA BOHÈME

DON GIOVANNI

FEB 5 - MAR 19

PUCCINI

MOZART

FEB 12 - MAR 18

I LOMBARDIVERDI

FEB 26 - MAR 20

THE CRUCIBLEWARD

MARCH 5 - 19





http://www.sarasotaopera.org

TM

2010 2011S E A S O N2010 20112010 20112010 2011

Leif Bjaland, Artistic Director

Come as you are. Leave different.

TICKETS FROM $29

www.SarasotaOrchestra.org | 941-953-3434

Alfred Hitchcock pioneered the psychological thriller genre of movies. In this innovative tribute, clips from many of his great movies are paired with live performances of the original scores by the Sarasota Orchestra. Footage and dialogue from To Catch a Thief, Strangers on a Train, Dial M for Murder, and North by Northwest highlight a musical evening of suspense, excitement and thrills. Conducted by Andrew Lane.

Friday, April 15, 8:00 pm | Van Wezel

Paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues

TM

2010 2011S E A S O N



TICKETS FROM $29





TM

2010 2011S E A S O N



TICKETS FROM $29





http://www.sarasotaorchestra.org

http://www.sarasotaorchestra.org


Spirit of Manatee Awards02-16 11:30 am Bradenton Auditorium. Manatee Community

Foundation honors outstanding community members. Tickets:

$125 / 941.747.7765 / manateecf.org

Eighth Annual Caring Hearts Luncheon 02-17 11:30 am Michael’s On East. Honoring Paul Welch with the

Caring Heart of the Year award, and emceed by Heidi Godman.

Benefits First Step’s Mothers & Infants program. Tickets: $60 /

941.366.5333 / fsos.org

Sarasota Exotic Car Fest & Jet Port Reception02-17 to 20 Various times and locations. Featuring a Golf Tour-

nament at The Concession Golf Club Thursday, followed by the

Luxury Lifestyle Jet Port Reception on Friday evening at the Rec-

trix Aerodrome Center at SRQ Airport. On Saturday, walk around

St. Armands and check out the Feraris, Rolls-Royces, Lambo-

rghinis, Bentleys and other Exotics on display, then head out to

The Longboat Key Club & Resort for cocktails, live entertainment,

dinner and dancing. Sunday features a Road Rally and a closing

brunch at The Concession Golf Club. 941.365.1277 ext. 103 /

sarasotaexoticcarfest.com

Taste of the Suncoast02-17 6:00 pm Whole Foods Market, Sarasota. Sample food

and wine from local restaurants. Benefits All Faiths Food

Bank. Tickets: $50 / 941.379.6333 / allfaithsfoodbank.org

ARC Safari Best in Show Gala02-19 6:30 pm Michael’s On East. Go on Safari with live animals

and unique cuisine. Benefits the Animal Rescue Coalition. Tick-

ets: $200 / 941.957.1955 ext. 8 / animalrescuecoalition.org

Junior League Legacy Luncheon02-21 11:00 am Michael’s On East. Featuring guest speaker Lee

Woodruff. Benefits the Junior League of Sarasota. Tickets: $85 /

941.953.5600 / jlsarasota.org

RCLA Town Hall Lecture Series02-23 10:30 am & 7:30 pm Van Wezel. Benefits the Ringling College

Library Association. Featuring Tony Blair, former Prime Minister of

Great Britain. Tickets: 941.925.1343/rclassociation.org

DWB Salon Series Luncheon & Style Show02-24 11:30 am Designing Women Boutique. Featuring guest

Nothing is more important than your health and well-being. At LernerCohen Healthcare, we believe the best path to good health starts with a personal approach to patient care. We limit the number of patients in our practice, spend as much time as necessary for each appointment and recommend lifestyle changes that can improve your quality of life. Our unique personal care focuses on what’s ailing you today, and on optimizing your wellness for the future.

The Doctor Is In. Always.Brad S. Lerner, MD ~ Louis M. Cohen, MD1921 Waldemere Street, Suite 814 ~ Sarasota, FL 34239 ~ LernerCohen.com

941.953.9080

A Smarter Pathto a Healthier Life.

~ Board Certified in Internal Medicine

~ Exceptional, Experienced Primary Care Physicians

~ Personal Attention~ Unlimited Visits~ House Calls~ 24/7 Access with No Waiting

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F L O R I DA’S P R E M I E R P R O F E S S I O N A L T H E AT R E

941-351-8000 OR 800-361-8388 ASOLOREP.ORG

SPO

NSO

RED

BY

SMART PHONEMICROSOFT TAG

by Lynn Nottage by Ira Levin

APR 1–MAY 14MAR 18–MAY 15

A devilishly clever, suspense-filled thrill ride.

Seduction. Scandal. Intrigue.

by David Hirson by Reginald Rose by Marc Camoletti translated by Beverley Cross

and Francis Evans1960s: 3 stewardesses,

2 bachelors, 1 apartment, you do the math.

PLAYING THRU APR. 23PLAYING THRU MAR. 26PLAYING THRU FEB. 20

Highbrow comedy meets lowbrow art in this hilarious tour-de-force.

Would you fight for your reasonable doubt?

Asolo Rep’s artistic programs are paid for in part by Sarasota County Tourist Development Tax Revenues.

LA BÊTE PHOTO BY CLIFF ROLES, DANNY SCHEIE; TWELVE ANGRY MEN PHOTO BY ALICIA DONELAN, JOHN STERLING ARNOLD, DAVID BREITBARTH, & JAMES CLARKE.

http://www.asolorep.org

http://www.asolorep.org


speaker & personal fitness expert Steve Schewe. Tickets: $16 /

941.544.7612 / designingwomenboutique.org

Second Annual Tidewell Hospice Compassion in Caring Award Luncheon 02-25 11:30 am The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota. The 2011 honoree,

Marge Maisto, will be recognized for demonstrating commitment

to our core values through gifts of time, talent and treasure. Tick-

ets: $75 / 941.552.7551 / tidewell.org

The Education Foundation of Sarasota County’s Evening of Excellence02-25 6:30 pm Michael’s On East. An elegant dinner and student art

auction showcasing outstanding high school talent. Tickets: $200 &

up / 941.927.0965 / sarasotacountyschools.net/educationfoundation

Weddings in Paradise Bridal Show02-26 3:00 pm St. Armands Circle Park. Open to the public.

starmandscircleassoc.com

Asolo Rep’s Studio 54 Disco Palace02-26 6:00 pm Hyatt Regency, Sarasota. Experience the world-

famous Studio 54 Nightclub. Benefits the Asolo Repertory The-

atre. Tickets: $275 & up / 941.351.9010 ext. 4712 / asolorep.org

PAL Sailor Circus Dinner Gala02-26 6:30 pm PAL Sailor Circus Arena. Benefits PAL Sailor Cir-

cus. 941.361.6350 / sailorcircus.org

New Gate-Field School’s Enchanted Evening02-27 Location TBA. Featuring dinner, dancing, silent and live

auctions. Benefits the New Gate-Field School. Tickets: $125 /

941.922.4949 / newgate.edu

JFCS Women of Valor Luncheon02-28 11:30 am Michael’s On East. Twenty-five women will be

recognized for their compassion for helping others. Tickets: $75 /

941.366.2224 ext. 142 / jfcs-cares.org

Save The Date:3-01 Planned Parenthood 45th Annual Dinner Celebration3-05 Sarasota Orchestra’s Behind the Mask Gala3-19 Out-of-Door Academy’s Banyan Ball3-22 Girl’s Inc. Celebration Luncheon3-30 Junior League Simply Sarasota Kitchen Festival

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scene | social View all photos at scenesarasota.com

Celebrating Silver, a musical salute to JFCS & Rose Chapman

was held at the Ritz-Carlton. A sold out crowd of more than

510 people toasted Rose Chapman for her 18 years of service as

President/CEO and celebrated the agency’s accomplishments over

the past 25 years. The evening featured a program from the Sarasota

Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Leif Bjaland. Gerri Aaron served as

Gala Chair and Honorary Chair was Bea Friedman. Boxes of Hope,

filled with gifts for children served by the agency’s Building Strong

Families Homelessness Prevention Program decorated the tables as

centerpieces and were distributed to 53 families for the holidays. Claudia & Margot Coville, Carol Camminer & Warren Coville

Harry & Victoria Leopold

Phot

ogra

phy

by C

liff R

oles

A Silver Celebration for JFCS

Debbie & Larry Haspel with Fran Lambert Geri-Jo Manson & Emma Joels

Sandy & Ben Krause with Phyllis Gerber Flora Major, Bob Dudley & Martha Honey

Rose Chapman, Marie Monsky & Gerri Aaron

Marilyn Shuman, Sheila Wynne & Mickey Fine

Melvy Lewis, Dirk Meyer, Vivian Kouvant & Marie Monsky

Jerome & Sydney Goldstein

http://www.jfcs-cares.org

��-��VINTAGE

2011

Longboat Key Club & Resort

BENEFITINGSenior Services at JFCS

EVENT CO-CHAIRSGail & Ben Klein

CHEF CHAIRRobert Weil

Director of Food & BeverageLongboat Key Club & Resort

COMMITTEEBarbara BoltuchBarbara Brizdle

Karen GaryJessica GonzalesBetty Greenspan

Joan KoplinFran LambertSusan LandauMarion LevineSherry LinhartSusan Mallitz

Audrey MartenBarbara Pugliese

Elaine RosenSuzette SeigelMadelyn Spoll

Arline SteinbergYevette ThorntonDebbie YonkerSheila Zinder

CORPORATE PARTNERS:HARRIS PRIVATE BANK

&SARASOTA BAY CLUB

For information or to receive an invitation

CONTACTAndria Bilan

941-366-2224 ext 138 [email protected]

JEWISH FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SERVICE OF

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Living WITH MENTAL ILLNESS A FREE Community Event

One of Broadcasting’s Most Respected Award-Winning Journalists, Well-Known Mental Health Advocate & Best-Selling Author

JANE PAULEYSpeaks of her Bi-Polar Disorder and Personal Journey of Self-Refl ection & Wellness

Saturday, April 9, 2011 / 2:00 PMSarasota Opera House

61 North Pineapple Avenue

Ms. Pauley will be followed by a Panel Discussion and Question & Answer Period with Dr. Parlane Reid, CMO, Sarasota Memorial Hospital; Dr. Chris Cortman, Licensed

Psychologist; and Mr. Rick O’Connell; Ms. Pauley will also be available for Book Signing.

TICKETS ARE REQUIRED AND WILL BE MAILED TO THOSE WHO REGISTER!

Register online at www.mhcci.com, call Bunny Coelingh at 941.953.3477, or Sarasota Memorial Hospital’s Health Line at 941.917.7777

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S A V E T H E D A T E

may 7, 2O11may 7, 2O11

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PRESENTED BY:

scene | arts & culture

Ringling in BloomFebruary 3-6, 2011In celebration of the Gardens in Perpetual Bloom exhibition, the John and Mable Ringling Museum

of Art is showcasing Ringling in Bloom. The four-day celebration of floral arts will include fresh floral

arrangements inspired by the Museum’s signature paintings and decorative art from its permanent

collection. Watch demonstrations and workshops about creating beautiful bouquets by master

floral designer René van Rems and witness the unveiling of Lilly Pulitzer’s 2011 Spring Collection

of fine art inspired silhouettes.

Why it matters: Flowers, fashion, food and fine art; this event has something culturally en-

gaging for everyone. This is a great opportunity to explore Ringling’s collections and gain

the skill to create your own floral work of art. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of art

is educating and enabling a large and diverse audience to experience and take delight in a

world-renowned collection of fine art; Cà d’Zan, the Ringling historic mansion; the Circus Mu-

seum; the Original Asolo Theater; and historic architecture, courtyard, gardens and grounds

overlooking Sarasota Bay.

Sarasota Arts Discovery TourFebruary 18-22, 2011The Sarasota Arts Discovery Tour is a unique four day VIP trip to Florida’s Cultural Coast. The

spectacular itinerary offers arts lovers a luxurious tour of our performing and visual arts organiza-

tions that would be impossible for an independent traveler to create. This trip was made possible

by unprecedented collaboration between the arts organizations and local arts lovers. Additional

unique features include deluxe accommodations at The Ritz-Carlton; a sunset dinner in a private,

beachfront penthouse; dinner in the Rubens Gallery at the Ringling Museum; and a guided tour of

select Sarasota School of Architecture homes.

February is blossoming with exciting

opportunities to broaden your

horizons. If you attend just the following four

events you would be able to create your own

floral work of art, rediscover Sarasota, experience

Sarasota Orchestra and fireworks on the bay, and

discuss marine-related topics like a pro. 1. Ringling in Bloom, featuring pieces from the Lilly Pulitzer Spring 2011 Collection.

2. Discover the Ringling Museum's Rubens Gallery with the Sarasota Arts Discovery Tour.

3. Celebrate with fireworks & a Sarasota Orchestra performance at New College's Celebration on the Bay.

4. Learn more about sea science at Mote’s Special Lecture Series.

Moms get free admission on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 9*

*with a paying child ticket

55 years of science has led us to some fascinating discoveries. Isn’t it time you came back for more?

New at Mote Aquarium:� Sea Turtles | Ancient Survivors� Seahorse Conservation Lab� Fossil Creek

3

4

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http://www.sarasotaarts.org

You want the best for your child. An education that develops your child’s potential to shine. The Out-of-Door Academy has been Sarasota’s leader in educational innovation and excellence for 86 years, preparing children for a lifetime of learning and placing our school in the nation’s top 1% of public & private schools. From nurturing PreKindergarten classrooms to rigorous senior courses, Out-of-Door inspires and challenges its students to think beyond textbooks and tests, to think critically and develop the skills to excel. Discover The Out-of-Door Academy. Open a world of opportunity for your child.

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Why it matters: This event is the perfect way for our community to

pull together to help the rest of the world see why Sarasota is rated one

of the five best art towns in America. There is a vast sense of pride that

is generated from community arts organizations and private citizens

helping the rest of the world see the magnificence that is Sarasota.

Celebration on the BayFebruary 12, 2011 at 7p.m.Celebration on the Bay is New College’s gift to the community. The

event will feature the Sarasota Orchestra led by Leif Bjaland and the

premiere of a new composition by New College alumnus Silas Duro-

cher, followed by fireworks over Sarasota Bay. Paul Wolfe, conduc-

tor laureate of the Sarasota Orchestra, will conduct a movement of

Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 – the same piece he conducted at the

dedication of the campus in 1962. This event is free and open to the

public. The concert will be preceded by a sunset reception hosted by

Mattison’s Restaurant from 5 – 7 pm.

Why it matters: The Venice Symphony provides cultural enrich-

ment for Sarasota County and enhances the area’s cultural image for

residents and visitors through performances of classical works and

“pops” selections. It serves as a source of music appreciation edu-

cation for the community and provides a stimulating musical experi-

ence for professional musicians, promising students, retirees with

musical talents, and its audiences.

Mote’s Special Lecture Series 2011February 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th A cartoonist, a whale shark researcher and a cinematographer walk

into Mote and... speak to the public during Mote’s annual Special

Lecture Series. This annual series showcases world-famous speak-

ers who discuss marine-related topics on Monday evenings in Feb-

ruary and March. Each lecture begins at 7:30 p.m. and takes place in

Mote’s Immersion Cinema.

Why it matters: Mote recognizes the importance of advancing the

understanding of sea science to the general public. To that end, Mote

conducts extensive public outreach and operates a public aquarium

that serves nearly 400,000 visitors a year. Mote is one of the few

organizations in the world that combines marine research with public

outreach through a full-fledged aquarium.

This is a merely a taste of a few upcoming events and by no means

an exhaustive listing. Want to see more events? Head over to Saraso-

taArts.org for additional events, artist profiles and information about

Sarasota’s exciting season of arts and culture.

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Behind the Scenewith Debbi Benedict

Alright, Poodle, I’m just going to say

it – “Black-tie optional” is a term

that should be outlawed. I would

like to say to party planners and charity

event chairs everywhere, in no uncertain

terms, it is either black-tie or it isn’t – make

up your mind. There is no such thing as

black-tie optional. The above term does not

make it easier for guests, i.e. husbands who

don’t like to wear tuxes, it makes it more

confusing, eliciting several emails to moi

recently asking my opinion on what to wear

to these baffling events. The whole point

of listing an attire request is so that guests

know what is expected of them sartorially. A

mix of formality at an event is never a good

thing. Of course, I am a huge black-tie fan

and love each and every opportunity to

wear a ball gown, but if you think you will

have numerous guests who will not want to

dress formally, then for heaven’s sake have

the dress code listed as “cocktail attire”

– problem solved.

Oh, look over there! Is it Halston,

Liza, Bianca, and Andy Warhol? No, just

Sarasota’s society swans and swells

boogying the night away at the Asolo Rep’s

Studio 54 Disco Palace gala at the Hyatt

Regency. Co-chairs Beverly Bartner and

Helen Sosso are producing an authentic

experience, complete with the prerequisite

glittering disco ball. There must be several

Sarasotans who remember standing in line at

the Studio’s door back in the day just hoping

to be admitted into the bacchanal that was

standard every day fare with Steve Rubell

and crew, and this event will be no different

– well, maybe a little different. The bouncer

will still be guarding the locked doors and

there will be a special VIP lounge, but with

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none of the, ahem, activities from the real

Studio 54 days being allowed other than

the wild dancing. Melanie Massell and

Hot Item will be playing your disco favorites

and a surprise special guest entertainer

will appear. Sponsors in spandex are Bob

& Beverly Bartner, Warren & Margot

Coville, Gulf Coast Community Foundation,

Carolyn Keystone & Jim Meekison, Bob

& Lee Peterson, and U.S. Trust.

The pairing of two of the nicest ladies

in town, Margarete van Antwerpen and

Julie Delaney as co-chairs of Historic

Spanish Point’s annual luncheon is sure

to mean a sold out Michael’s On East. Of

course they have some dynamite help

with the inventive Sara Bagley doing the

centerpieces and chef extraordinaire Judi

Gallagher and MOE’s Phil Mancini doing

the cooking demo. Margarete told me that

the tropical fusion theme and the adorable

graphic on the invitation came from a label

she saw the Spanish Point gift shop. It’s

amazing where theme ideas come from,

isn’t it? This luncheon always has the best

themed raffl e baskets, this year put together

by LeeAnn Gladding and Ann Van Cott.

The live auction will be done by Michael

Klauber and feature trips to the Blue Ridge

Mountains and Merritt Island and dining

treats from Judi at Libby’s Café and Michael

at his new Tasting Room. Honorary chairs

are Mary Evelyn Guyton and Cindy

Stuhley. Major sponsors are Margarete,

along with Graham Interiors.

One of the most giving, charming, not to

mention gorgeous women in town is Denise

Mei, who is co-chairing Make-a-Wish’s

Cooking for Wishes event with the equally

divine Terri Klauber. Denise revealed to me

that the interactive luncheon at Michael’s On

East will have wine connoisseur, Michael

Klauber selecting the wine pairings. Those

interactive cooking events are always

such a delight – sometimes a serious

competition and sometimes just exuberant

fun – depending on the cooking level of your

table companions! The three silent auction

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items will be a cocktail party for 50 at Café

Baci, a Caribbean resort get-away from Elite

Island Resorts, and a year of pampering

and dining fun from the Sarasota-Manatee

Originals. Spicy sponsors are Café Baci,

JCI Jones Chemicals, and Jones Family

Foundation.

Gracious, lovely, and committed to

serving others, Marge Maisto, former

CEO of TideWell Hospice will be honored

at the organization’s Compassion in

Caring Luncheon at the Ritz Carlton. The

Host Committee is comprised of myself,

Margaret Callihan, Julie Delaney, Diane

McFarlin, Alice Rau, and Barbara Siemer.

New TideWell CEO, Gerry Radford will

emcee and introduce a video spotlighting

the generous Marge and her endowed

Humanitarian Fund that fulfills many basic

human needs for hospice patients. I had

the wonderful opportunity to work closely

with Marge when I was coordinating the

Clowning Around Town project and can

attest to her compassion and devotion to

hospice principles. You never realize the

tremendous positive and loving impact that

hospice care has on a patient and their family

until you experience it. We can all be proud

to have such a marvelous organization in

our area and thank Marge for making it what

it is today. Presenting Sponsor is Bouchard

Insurance, with Visionary Sponsors Hospice

Pharmacia, Caldwell Trust, Northern Trust,

and Target Graphics.

New College of Florida is celebrating

its 50th Anniversary by hosting an elegant

Tribute Dinner at the Ritz Carlton. Honorary

Chairs are Ulla Searing, Howard and

Betty Iserman, Jean Martin, Margaret

Mason, and Bob and Lee Peterson. Co-

chairs are Dr. Charlene Callahan, Elaine

Keating, Susannah Michalson, and

Felice Schulaner. Famed Beatles cover

band, Beatlemania will entertain, which

is appropriate since I believe the Beatles

came on the scene just about the time New

College was starting their own particular

brand of fabulousness. Emerald sponsors

are Mark and Jennie Famiglio, Bob and

Lee Peterson, and Felice Schulaner and

Dennis Rees.

Cocktails on the lawn, overlooking

a magnificent sunset, slowly descending

into a glimmering bay, what could be more

elegant? Conservation Foundation of the

Gulf Coast’s Palm Ball at Bay Preserve is

always a sparkling delight and one of my

favorite events. The co-chairs are the same

team who has produced this successful

event year after year, Pauline Joerger,

Nora Johnson, Lynn Morris, Amie Swan,

and Margaret Wise. The Igniters will keep

you dancing all night. The Paddle Raise for

Preservation will offer among other things,

a canoe trip with County Commissioner

Jon Thaxton, a luau on North Casey Key

Beach, and a private dinner for ten at Bay

Preserve. The ever so correct sponsors

are Mr. and Mrs. Richard Matson, The

Honorable and Mrs. Vern Buchanan,

Mr. and Mrs. Tom Charters, Ms. Kim

Githler, Dr. and Mrs. Albert Joerger,

Northern Trust, Mr. and Mrs. Robert

Peterson, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Qualy,

and Mr. and Mrs. Jack Swan.

Many organizations are shaking up the

way they do things and Sarasota Orchestra

Association is one of them. Their Designer

Showcases have always been something

everyone looked forward to and this year

they have made it even better by offering

homes in two locations. Anne Scott, chair,

told me the Masterworks Showcase of

Luxury Homes, featuring ten homes, would

not only be on Bird Key and St. Armands,

but also on Casey Key and the Oaks. Five

homes on one day and five homes the

next. Several luxury experts will also be on

hand, including Sally Schule from Saks,

Geoffrey Michel from The Met, and Joan

Morgan from Dream Weaver. Sponsors are

Michael Saunders & Co. and Wells Fargo.

How many women does it take to

chair Moffitt Cancer Center Foundation’s

Women’s Cancer Awareness Luncheon

at the Ritz Carlton? Six exquisite ladies

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– Barbara Ackerman, Veronica Brady,

Eileen Curd, Mary Forte, Charlene

Wolff, and Barbara Portanova, that’s how

many. Almost $1 million has been raised

over the past 11 years to benefit breast and

gynecologic cancer research at the center.

Heidi Godman, former medical editor at

ABC7 will moderate an esteemed panel

of experts, Dr. Johnathan Lancaster,

Dr. Christine Laronga, and Dr. Susan

Minton. It’s not all serious subjects and

statistics though, Addison Craig and

Nikki Sedacca Collections will both have

boutiques available for shopping, along

with stunning live orchids. A weekend use

of a Bentley from Dew Luxury Motor Cars

will be part of the Chinese raffle. Ruby Red

sponsors are Joan A. Mendell, Susan

Milman, and Rickie and Jana Paley

La Boheme will set the very French

mood for Sarasota Opera’s Opening Night

Gala. Co-chairs Suzanne and Henry

Foster are making magic by devising a plan

to whisk the cars of gala guests from the

Opera House to the Ritz Carlton during the

performance. Guests will then board a bus,

I mean, luxury coach to the hotel after the

performance and at evening’s end, their cars

will be waiting for them like patient French

schoolgirls. Haute cuisine will mix gaily with

haute couture. How many of our luscious

ladies will be clad in Chanel, Dior, or vintage

Balenciaga in honor of the evening? Who

knows, but with that crowd, I am guessing

several. Cigar City Big Band will be playing

for your dancing pleasure. Joie de vivre

sponsors are PNC Wealth Management and

Williams Parker.

Bubbly Cheryl Burstein is chairing

this year’s Junior League of Sarasota

Sustainers’ Legacy Luncheon with speaker

Lee Woodruff, wife of the former ABC

News anchor, Bob Woodruff who was

seriously injured in a roadside bombing

in Iraq. Starting the morning off with a

champagne reception, the luncheon will

also feature a raffle with a signature jewelry

piece from Belinda Coffrin of Coffrin

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Jewelers. Joining Cheryl as major sponsors

are SCENE Magazine, Kim Cornetet, and

Barbara Barrett.

We can thank Condoleezza Rice for

encouraging Tony Blair to speak at Ringling

College Library Association’s Town Hall this

year. Chair, Kathleen Weiner shared with

me that Ms. Rice said our Town Hall is the

best speaker series around and she was

very influential in changing the former prime

minister’s mind after he initially turned down

the invitation. Now his wife Cherie will join

him in Sarasota. She is the Platinum Dinner

speaker, with him speaking at Town Hall the

next day. The dinner is a must attend event

for the town’s intelligentsia and those who

pretend to be, but really just want a photo with

the speaker for their office. Other speakers

in this year’s series are Greg Mortenson,

George Will, Elie Wiesel, and Malcolm

Gladwell with Adam Gopnik.

SPARCC’s Second Hand Rose Fashion

Show is going Mardi Gras at the Ritz Carlton

this year chair Sandy Strom tells me. Les

McCurdy and Ken Sons will once again

be the very engaging emcees and three

gorgeous men, David Krombeen, Tom

Luzier, and Michael Moulton will be

among the models. In addition to Sandy,

major sponsors are Betty Schoenbaum,

Mary Ann Robinson, Lisa Walsh,

Luisa Goldman, Gloria Webel, Erika

Quartermaine, and Linda Berliner.

And don’t miss Jewish Family and

Children’s Services’ Women of Valor

Luncheon, celebrating the agency’s 25th

anniversary by honoring 25 outstanding

women. Mistress of Ceremonies is author

Joy Weston.

Be on the lookout for our new

publication, The Giving Book, THE premiere

resource guide for charitable giving in

Sarasota and Manatee – debuting soon!

Until next time....TaTa!

Debbi Benedict is SCENE’s society maven

and Special Issues Director. Contact Debbi at

941-483-4460 or [email protected]

VAN WEZELFOUNDATION

ENRICHING LIVES THROUGH THE PERFORMING ARTS

Boar’s Head is proud to partner with the Van Wezel

Foundation in support of their efforts to inspire student

learning and enrich our community through the

performing arts.

Michael Martella

President of Boar’s Head Provisions Co., Inc.

941.366.5578 | www.VWFoundation.org941.366.5578 | www.VWFoundation.org

Inspire a Child.

Enrich a Life.

Support Arts Education.

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THERINGLINGARTEXPERIENCEBY RYAN G. VAN CLEAVE

Scene Magazine is pleased pay tribute to the John Ringling tradition

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

Each featured artist has a connection with the Ringling Museum of

Art or the school named in his honor, The Ringling College of Art and

Design. What better way to continue John Ringling’s commitment

to art and culture than to provide a forum for the exciting new work

being created right here on the Culture Coast?

This issue’s Featured Artist is a Trustee Scholar senior at the Ringling College of Art +

Design: Ana Carmichael, or “Annie” to her friends. While a Trustee Scholarship is a coveted

award at Ringling College, perhaps her most impressive honor might be the two Davis

Project for Peace Grants that first sent her to Oxaca, Mexico in 2008 where she taught 30

children about art, and then in 2009 to Swaziland, Africa where she backpacked around

the country, helped create cultural murals, and started putting together a children’s book

to raise awareness about AIDS, the orphans it left behind, and how anything is possible

through the power of positive thinking. From a social commitment like this, it’s clear

Annie isn’t your run-of-the mill art student who’s content to navel-gaze and ignore the

world. She’s committed to making a difference.

While art has always been a passion of hers, she didn’t realize she wanted to be an

illustrator until high school. “While I grew up,” she explains, “paintings by my Colombian

relatives filled my house, and I just loved looking at those Caribbean scenes.” To speak

with her now, it’s clear that this constant exposure to art worked deep into her DNA.

Yet a love for art and exposure to good art isn’t enough. A first-rate education is key, and

that’s what she received at Ringling College, where “the energy and creativity always push

me to do more. Plus the city’s cultural and artistic atmosphere always reminds me why I

love what I do.” But just as quickly, Annie turns the conversation away from herself and

back onto others. “After volunteering in Swaziland and seeing so many children unable to

better themselves because of their lack of education, I became much more passionate

about using my illustrations to help educate and empower young kids.” That’s the type of

person you don’t just root for, but wish you could be more like. To learn more about Annie

or to see more of her artwork, please visit: http://anacarmichael.blogspot.com/

Ryan G. Van Cleave (ryangvancleave.com) is a Sarasota-based freelance writer & writing coach.


Peter & Susan Migliaccio invite you to experience superbly prepared meals and fine wines served with all the comforts and traditions of home.

By Susan Cullen, Photos by Cliff Roles

Peter Migliaccio’s

Café GabbianoPeter, center, with sons Russell, Luigi, Joseph & Christopher



Café Gabbiano has been undergoing a complete transformation as the Migliaccio family is re-

alizing its dream of creating an oasis of Italian ambiance on Siesta Key. While returning snowbirds will be

pleasantly surprised at the physical changes, they will be reassured to know that the welcoming “home-

away-from-home” atmosphere remains the same. Of course, making oneself at home at Café Gabbiano

comes with perks like superbly-prepared meals with unstintingly fresh ingredients along with rare fine wines

from around the world.

Pietro “Peter” Migliaccio and his wife, Susan, have fashioned an exquisite recreation of a cozy Italian wine

cellar. “We like to say that we offer an alternative experience of Siesta Key with fine dining and beautiful wines,”

says the ever-exuberant Peter. “In spite of the recession, last year was very successful, and we brought back

some exciting new ideas for the menu and wine list from our annual trip to Italy in September.”

Having completed phase two of the restaurant’s renovation in 2010, the outdoor dining area has been

weatherized without losing the feel of relaxing in a shady bower in southern Italy. Its rustic dark wood lattice,

softly draping fabrics and lush foliage create a dappling sunlit effect that can be enjoyed from a new outdoor

bar as well as table seating.

Also new, a spacious entryway welcomes guests into the restaurant and, because of its increasing

popularity, the private bar and priority-seating dining area for the restaurant’s exclusive wine club has been

expanded and a second private dining room has been added. “We’re so pleased to have completed the next

phase of our plan to improve the beauty and comfort of our indoor and outdoor dining areas,” Susan said.

“We’ve made our outside seating area a bit more rustic with décor that is true to Italian wine cellars.”

One of the most interesting additions for this year, however, is a line of 10 Café Gabbiano private label

wines from boutique Italian wineries whose production rarely makes it to the United States. The wines are

available to everyone in house, but may only be purchased retail by wine club members. “That’s how Peter

and Susan spend their vacation, going to Italian wineries,” Peter quips. “Actually, we were able to get some

very rare vintages from smaller wineries that are difficult to get access to. It’s a situation where you have to

know somebody who knows somebody to get there.”

The Migliaccios are buying the wine by the barrel for bottling. Wanting the bottles to reflect the extraordi-

nary character of the wines inside, they opted for specially-designed collectable ceramic labels that can easily

be removed from the bottles with hot water. Wines include a sparkling Prosecco, two Super Tuscans, including

one from the Rosso Conero region, Tokai, Taurasi, known as the Barolo of the south, Sauvignon Blanc, Char-

donnay, Pinot Grigio, and Vin Santo, a dessert wine. Plans are to add a Barolo, Barbera and an Amarone.

The Migliaccios even corralled 400 cases of the five-star 2004 vintage Taurasi. “It is very exciting for us

to be able to offer this wine because it is from a year that has been called the best ever for that region,” Peter

said. Grown in the Campania region at the foot of Mt. Vesuvius, the unique volcanic soil of the area, its terroir

in wine parlance, imparts distinctive characteristics to the wine.

THIS PAGE:

Peter & Susan Migliaccio.

Collectible ceramic labels from Café Gabbiano's private label wines.

NEXT PAGE:

Interior of Café Gabbiano.

Variety of wines & collectible labels.

In spite of

the growth

that has come

with our

success,” Peter

says, “you still

are a stranger

here only once.

After that, you

feel like you are

coming home.44 scene | February 2011 scenesarasota.com

A tasting of the new wines is being planned as are other wine club events. “We’re looking at events that

include the arts, music and dancing,” Susan says,” and we welcome suggestions from members.” Last

year’s events included unique tastings such as wines from the Alps and vertical tastings of Amarone from

1959 and Barolo from 1961.

“One of the reasons we invite people to our wine club is to introduce them to wines they may not have

known before,” Peter said. “I was especially proud to be able to taste these wines in Italy along with a number

of our friends from the wine club who accompanied us there.”

Also while in Italy, Peter was invited as a guest chef at the renowned Restaurant Paradise on his native

island of Ischia, situated off the heel of the boot. “We brought back a lot of new ideas and will be introducing

some new items to the menu,” he said. “Our plans include adding more seafood dishes.”

In addition to the whole tableside-filleted Branzino, which is pan-seared and finished in the oven bathed

in white wine, parsley and its own fresh-from-the-sea juices, another Italian fish, Orata, will be flown in from

Italy and served the same day. Known for hand-cutting its veal on the premises, Café Gabbiano will continue

to offer its signature 14-ounce milk-fed veal chop in a variety of preparations as part of its daily specials. “Pe-

ter sometimes serves it with a mushroom cream sauce or with truffle oil and wild mushrooms and a variety

of other ways,” Susan said. “It’s just delicious.”

The restaurant’s menu offers a broad selection of classic Italian-American cuisine prepared with Italian

tradition, which means very simply, allowing the freshness and natural flavors of high-quality ingredients to

carry the dishes. Appetizer classics include a bruschetta topped with fresh tomatoes, basil and garlic, pro-

sciutto wrapped melon or asparagus and perfectly-fried calamari with lemon and fresh marinara sauce.

Entrees range from the rustic Bucatini alla Amatriciana, with sautéed pancetta, onions, white wine, mari-

nara and fresh basil, to the time-honored linguine with clam sauce, eggplant Parmesan, veal scaloppini in

several varieties, and chicken prepared in cacciatore, Marsala and Francese styles.

This year, the Migliaccios will be adding more dishes for vegetarians and vegans to supplement the res-

taurant’s grilled vegetables and eggplant Parmesan. “Any night of the week, we will create a pasta primavera

or a special vegetarian or vegan meal on request,” Peter says. “It is simple for us because our meals always

are prepared to order. Nothing is pre-prepared. All of our dressings and sauces are made fresh daily.”

This philosophy has served Café Gabbiano very well since its opening in 2003 as well as its sister res-

taurant, Mamma Lucia’s in Brooklyn, which has been in operation for more than 40 years playing host to ce-

lebrities like Luciano Pavarotti and Isabella Rossellini. Mamma Lucia’s was Peter’s first foray into restaurant

ownership, opening the restaurant along with his brother in 1969.

Previously, after immigrating to the United States at age 18, Peter worked at a number of fine New York

restaurants where he gained his philosophy of viewing restaurant service as a distinguished career marked

by high professional standards. When he and his family moved to Florida, he discovered Siesta Key whose

white sands and tropical climate were so like his native Ischia that he decided to relocate here.

Forging Café Gabbiano’s success from the ashes of several failed breakfast and lunch restaurants at

the same location has been a family affair. At various times, all four of the couple’s sons have worked in the

restaurant, including Luigi, their eldest son and the restaurant’s chef and manager who has been with them

from the start. “There were days our kids watched TV in the van while we worked on getting the restaurant

going,” Susan said. “They’ve all played a big part. I don’t think we could have done it without them.”

It is this dedication to family that spills over into the Migliaccios’ practice of ensuring newcomers are

welcomed and have the opportunity to meet everyone. Over time, friendships are forged. “They know our

stories, and we know their stories,” she adds. “It makes for a lot of good times, and like any family, some sad

ones. It is hard when someone comes in and tells us they lost a spouse while they were away over the sum-

mer. It also is heart-warming that they feel comfortable continuing to come here alone to be with all of us.”

Peter concurs. “In spite of the growth that has come with our success,” he says, “you still are a stranger

here only once. After that, you feel like you are coming home.”

Café Gabbiano, Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar5104 Ocean Boulevard | Siesta Key | 941-349-1423 | cafegabbiano.com




The idea of outdoor urban art displays has grown in popularity during

the last decade. In 1999, hundreds of artistically painted (and sometimes

wildly dressed) cow sculptures were showcased in downtown Chicago

during their “Cows on Parade” Art Exhibit. In 2001, Baltimore witnessed

180 six-foot fish sculptures appear throughout Inner Harbor and other city

neighborhoods. (The name given to these gigantic fish? Ichthyarius Balti-

moris.) In 2009, St. Louis opened a downtown sculpture garden that hosts

more than two dozen artworks over three acres. Some of these art pieces

include a spray fountain, a huge bronze head resting on its side, and ani-

mated figures moving across giant screens.

Now downtown Sarasota is joining the ranks of cities that have committed

to hosting urban art exhibits. Why now? Chicago’s popular cow sculptures

generated an estimated $200 million in tourism revenues. An influx of new

tourism money is certainly welcome in Sarasota (as well as nearly any oth-

er city in the United States right now). But there are plenty of other reasons

to make this new commitment to public art, says Virginia Hoffman, a volun-

teer Public Art Coordinator who proposed the project two years ago.

One reason for supporting Sarasota’s “Intersections” project is to “keep

up with the Joneses.” It’s not just big metropolitan areas like Chicago and

Baltimore that have urban art programs. Clearwater has had their own

outdoor art exhibit for years, though it’s been small in scope — only a

of Art,Culture& Society

THE

A Closer Look at Downtown Sarasota’s ”Intersections” ProjectBy Ryan G. Van Cleave


“Intersections” 12 Pieces1 Point Defiance by Beth Nybeck of Kansas City, MOFirst Street & Central Avenue

2 Noise by Robin Morgan of Sarasota, FLLocated at 1400 block – First Street

3 Rain by Valeria Yamamoto of Bay Harbor Island, FLLocated at First Street & Lemon Avenue

4 Freedom-Sky by Ofra Friedman of Bradenton, FLLocated at Selby Five Points Park

5 Fractured Migration by Dennis Kowal of Sarasota, FLLocated at Selby Five Points Park

6 Bharata by Claudia Jane Klein of Lake Worth, FLLocated at Selby Five Points Park

7 Impulse by Bruce White of Nokomis, FLLocated at Main Street & Lemon Avenue

8 Vertigo by Mark Chew of North Port, FLLocated at Laurel Street & Orange Avenue

9 Community Figures by James Evans of Sarasota, FLLocated at 50 block – Palm Avenue

10 Silver Siren by David Gonya of Sarasota, FLLocated at 50 block – Palm Avenue

11 Arches by “Tekla” Teresa Howachyn of Black Mountain, NCLocated at Palm Avenue & McAnsh Street

12 Montenegro by Zoran Mojsilov of Minneapolis, MNLocated at Bay Front Park

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few pieces are displayed at a time. Another reason, Hoffman says, “is to give people

yet another reason to come downtown. These sculptures will help offer a more robust

experience there.” And the last — and perhaps strongest — reason is because Sarasota

enjoys a reputation as an artistic and cultural hot spot. Having this urban art exhibit both

highlights that fact, and it also allows a great venue to display the work of the many local

artists we have thanks to the Ringling College of Art + Design, Art Center Sarasota, and

the Ringling Museum, which keep many talented artists living here versus migrating to

Los Angeles, Chicago, or New York.

“Intersections” features twelve sculptures in five downtown shopping districts, and regional

talent accounts for two-thirds of the pieces, though three artists hail from outside of Florida

(Minneapolis, Kansas City, and Black Mountain, NC). The final sculpture was installed on

December 17th at Selby Five Points Park, which means that full exhibit is now ready to be

experienced. To help people navigate all twelve pieces in a single walking tour, the Public Art

Committee has worked with the Sarasota County Arts Council and the Sarasota Convention

and Visitors Bureau to offer a Walking Tour Map.

Like traditional gallery art, outdoor sculptures must appeal to a diverse audience and

make a personal connection with them, says Dave Gonya, who created “Silver Siren.”

“But they must also withstand all that nature can throw at them,” which, in this part of the

Gulf Coast, means that sculptures need to be made with especially sturdy materials. The

extra effort and challenges of creating and displaying outdoor art is worth it, says Ofra

Friedman, who created “Freedom-Sky.” She explains that “making public art an integral

part of the city of Sarasota will contribute to establish Sarasota as a cultural center and

enhance the city’s image.” James Evans, who created “Community Figures,” adds: “It

inspires conversations that can expand our local dialog within the current language of

modern art. It is in getting work out into the pubic, so that it can be both viewed and ap-

preciated by everyone that gives the city of Sarasota more culture and more images to

draw on, and creates a more vibrant platform for the arts.”

To learn more about the “Intersections” project, visit the “Intersections Public Art Project

for Downtown Sarasota” Facebook page or simply head downtown and see it for your-

self. The pieces will displayed until next November, so enjoy them while they’re here.

Don’t be worried that November 2011 might represent the end of public art in our area,

though. As Public Art Staff Liaison Dr. Clifford Smith says, the prospects of future out-

door art exhibits is “great, as success breeds success and our hope is this project will in-

spire future Public Art projects for the City of Sarasota.” Best of all, while all twelve artists

receive $2,500 to display their pieces throughout the year, one piece will be purchased

for $20,000 and will become a permanent part of the city’s art collection. If you have a

favorite, use the Facebook page to vote for it to stay around and your children’s children

might one day be able to enjoy that same sculpture too.

Ryan G. Van Cleave / ryangvancleave.com

Sarasota enjoys a reputation as an artistic and

cultural hot spot. Having this urban

art exhibit both highlights that

fact, and it also allows a great

venue to display the work of the

many local artists we have thanks

to the Ringling College of Art +

Design, Art Center Sarasota, and the Ringling Museum, which keep many

talented artists living here versus migrating to Los

Angeles, Chicago, or New York.


“Point Defiance” Beth Nybeck First Street and Central Avenue

“Noise” Robin Morgan 1400 Block First Street

“Rain” ValeriaYamamoto First Street and Lemon Avenue

“Freedom-Sky” Ofra Friedman Selby Five Points Park

“Fractured Migration” Dennis Kowal Selby Five Points Park

“Bharata” Claudia Jane Klein Selby Five Points Park

“Impulse” Bruce White Main Street and Lemon Avenue

“Vertigo” Mark Chew Laurel Street and Orange Avenue

“Community Figures” James Evans 50 Block Palm Avenue

“Silver Siren” David Gonya 50 Block Palm Avenue

“Arches” Telka Palm Avenue and McAnsh Street

“Montenegro” Zoran Mojsilov Bayfront Park

INTERSECTIONS PUBLIC ART LOCATIONSNOVEMBER 2010-2011

•Sponsored by the

City of Sarasota, FloridaMayor Kelly Kirschner

Vice Mayor Fredd AtkinsCommissioner Suzanne AtwellCommissioner Richard ClappCommissioner Terry Turner

Special thanks to our community sponsors. Sarasota Convention & Visitors Bureau

Sarasota Arts Council Casto Development

Whole Foods

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Blvd of the ArtsGillespie Av

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Lafayette CtColumbia Ct

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Park

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Blvd of the ArtsRosemary

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TowlesCourt

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Bayfront Park

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SHOPPING DISTRICTSHistoric Main StreetRosemary Towles CourtHistoric Palm AvenueHistoric Burns Square

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701 North Tam

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S 41) f

THE “INTERSECTIONS” MAP

Not only did Jimmy Arias rise to Top Ten in the world back in

1984, he’s also credited with helping revolutionize the fore-

hand with his full-shoulder rotation that belied his relatively

small stature. Fellow Buffalo-native Murf Klauber helped recruit

Arias from the snowbelt to train under legendary coach Nick Bol-

letieri at Klauber’s Colony Resort on Longboat Key. Now all these

years later, the 46-year old Arias is married to a woman he met

at one of his tennis matches in Memphis in 1987, they have two

teenagers and live a remarkably normal life not far from downtown

Sarasota. He’s a regular commentator on ESPN and Tennis Chan-

nel — and a frequent contributor to Tennis Magazine:

Why did you settle in Sarasota?

My wife liked it here — and I go wherever Gina tells me.

Would you ever relocate after your kids get out of high school?

Probably not. I like the small town feel of Sarasota.

How would you describe the amateur tennis scene here?

I think its fairly competitive. Even the public courts are busy here.

How often do you still play?

I play 3-4 times a week usually at the Bath & Racquet Club. I hit

with my son Spencer quite a bit.

Do you still think about your technique when you hit?

I’m always searching for new things to make me come back to

Roger Federer’s level. (Laugh.)

TENNIS ICONJIMMY ARIAS AROUND THE WORLD WITH ROGER & RAFAJimmy Arias is the most famous tennis player in Sarasota, and one of the most respected commentators nationwide — yet he is able to roam the area nearly anonymous.

By Ray Collins

Does Nick Bollettieri get enough credit?

He might, but having said that he probably should be in the Hall of

Fame and he’s not.

What did you think of Andre Agassi’s controversial book

last year?

I thought it was ridiculous. How can anyone have what tennis gave

him — and write a ‘poor me, whoa is me’ book?

What was it like to become a tennis commentator?

It was difficult because it was something completely new. Even

though it was about a sport I knew about, I still had to put myself

on the line in another realm. I thought it was fairly difficult.

What is your favorite tournament?

The atmosphere of the U.S. Open was — and is — the most in-

tense. I also liked playing in Monte Carlo, I played well there and it

was a beautiful spot to be.

Who do you predict will be the top men players in 2011?

Rafael Nadal, Roger Federer, Andy Murray, and Novak Djokovic.

Then I’d say the wildcards for fifth best would be between Juan

Martin Del Potro, Robin Soderling, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Gael Mon-

fils, and Andy Roddick.

Nadal ahead of Federer?

Roger is the best player when it’s all flowing. His problem is —

when it gets tight. If someone gets close, he tends to struggle.

Editor’s note: Jimmy recently sat down with fellow-Buffalo native Ray Collins who watched

Arias grow up since they first played side-by-side at age 8. While Ray Collins rose to #5 on

his college team, Jimmy Arias rose to #5 in the world. They’re now friends living in Sarasota,

miles from the Buffalo Tennis Center where they both learned to play.




Ray Collins is a former TV newscaster and country club tennis pro. He now owns a Sarasota-based media company. For details, go to www.RayCollinsMedia.com.

Isn’t Federer the best of all time?

Yes, right now. But his main rival in his era is beating him. So maybe

he’s not — but it’s still a long way for Nadal to go to catch some of

the records, particularly 23 Grand Slam semi-finals in a row. I don’t

think anyone will pass that record. That’s ridiculous.

Andy Murray at #3?

I keep waiting for Murray to win a slam. He’s got the game to do it. He

just hasn’t broken through yet.

Has Roddick peaked?

He’s up and down depending what day you get him. He’s a great

fighter. You never see him not give 100%, he rarely makes an excuse.

He could sneak into Top 5 in 2011, but I’d be surprised.

What’s Federer like in person?

Funny story. Over a decade ago I commentated on the Finals of the

Orange Bowl Juniors between Federer and Guillermo Coria. I talked

to him for 5 minutes the day before the match, just to get a feel for

him. Ten years later, I was introduced to him when he was #1 and

he said, “Yes, you commentated on the Orange Bowl Juniors years

ago.” I thought that was interesting from a memory standpoint.

How about Nadal?

Nadal was walking out to hit on the U.S. Open practice courts and

so was my son Spencer — who really wasn‘t supposed to even

be out there. He was hitting with my brother. Nadal walked by and

retrieved a ball for Spencer, then patted him on the shoulder, gave

him a thumbs up and went out of his way to be nice. I thought that

was really cool. There was no reason for him to do that. He was just

being nice to a kid.

Another funny story about Nadal — I was commentating for ESPN at

the Canadian Open. I had to interview Nadal a couple days in a row

after his match, and before we went on the air he said, (Arias puts on

a Spanish accent), “I want to congratulate you, you had a good ca-

reer.” I started laughing and I said, “Dude, it was nothing compared

to what you have already at age 19! Don’t worry about it!” He seems

like a really nice kid to me.

It’s a unique time in tennis that both of the top two guys are genuinely

nice guys. I don’t know if that’s good for tennis or bad.

Who are the rising stars in 2011?

Kei Neshkoro (of Japan). I remember after Nadal played him in

Greece two years ago, Nadal said, “The guy is a Top 5 player.” He

just hired Brad Gilbert as a coach, and Gilbert only works with those

who will be top couple in the world. Kei has talent, he just keeps get-

ting hurt. (Note: Nishikori won the 2010 Sarasota Open and trains at

IMG in Bradenton.)

Anybody else?

Alexander Dolgopolov. Look it up! (Dolgopolov, 22, of Kiev, Ukraine.)

What about Bradenton’s Ryan Harrison?

I need to see more from him in 2011 before I say ‘rising star.’

How about the women?

I’d say the top players in 2011 will be Caroline Wozniacki, Kim Cli-

jsters, Justine Henin, Serena Williams and Vera Zronareva.

Any rising stars on the women‘s side?

I keep waiting for Victoria Azarenka to win some Slams. She was

outplaying Serena Williams in the quarters of the Australian a couple

years ago when she got sick from the heat.

What about Melanie Oudin who often trains at Sarasota’s Bath &

Racquet Club?

Melanie’s a little small. It’s a big hitters sport now. She’ll never be able

to serve very big. I think its too tough.

What else do you expect to see in 2011?

The interesting story plot for me will be to see if Nadal wins the Austra-

lian four years in a row. The last man to do that was Rod Laver in 1969.

I know it’s a record he wants. He’s talked about it. Generally when he

puts his mind to something, I wouldn’t count him out from winning four

in a row. That would be quite a feat. Federer wasn’t able to do it.

Are players more talented today than when you were playing?

I think the technique is better. The grips, the stance, things that I

wasn’t taught. An open-stance forehand is needed since the ball

is traveling so quickly now. Back then you could hit the ball and

hang out for a second. Bjorn Borg was one of the first to switch

to open stance.

Anything else in 2011?

I’m expecting to hear more talk about a roof on the U.S. Open sta-

dium court — so we don’t have a final on a Monday for a third year in

a row, and I don’t have to stay there an extra day.

Any regrets?

I used to play 6-7 hours a day and didn’t work as much on my phy-

sique. If I could do it over again, I would have focused more on

weight-training. All those hours on the court, you’re inevitably coast-

ing at some point.

Sarasota is fortunate to have an icon of the tennis world living in our

own backyard. And Jimmy Arias feels just as lucky to have found our

slice of paradise. Call it a love match.


If recent history is any kind of barometer for the future, the greater

Sarasota area is on the verge of becoming a Mecca for television

and movie producers looking to set up shop in Florida — enjoying

the generous tax incentives offered here as well as a burgeoning

talent pool of directors, film crews, actors, editors, film studios, and

post-production facilities.

Just ask Ken Sanborn, whose Sanborn Studios was launched last

fall. Sanborn estimated the company’s capital investment in the effort

over the first 18 months would total $30 million — including facility

and renovations, equipment, hiring, and purchasing rights for the initial

productions his company has planned. Sanborn’s resume boasts an

extensive background in aviation, filmmaking, and aerial photography.

The New Hollywood:SARASOTA’S BID TO LURE FILMMAKERS

By Steven J. Smith

Ringling College student learns the art of digital filmmaking.

Sanborn, 58, plans to hire about 117 employees over the next

several years to help him expand, operate, and maintain his dream.

As of this writing, he has hired about 20, addressing the company’s

clerical, editing, producing, and writing needs.

“And the ripple effect of that is much bigger than people realize,”

he said. “The TV series Burn Notice, for example, which is filmed in

South Florida, infuses between $17-18 million into Miami’s economy

every season. They come in with a crew of 120 people, but another

2,000-3,000 additional jobs come with those every year in the form

of the need for hotel workers, restaurants, clothing stores, hardware

stores. It’s significant.”

The first phase of Sanborn Studios will include renovating an


existing 30,000 square-foot building. Eventually, the

project could encompass 25 acres.

“Our ultimate goal is to build a state-of-the-art facility

and grow this into a production center for Florida,”

Sanborn said. “If you have facilities and you have people,

it becomes an attractive turnkey operation.”

Sanborn is already in pre-production for Miami 24/7,

a 13-week TV series slated to go before the cameras

on May 16. “The show is about a TV news helicopter

reporter, based loosely on a lot of our experiences in

New York, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia,” Sanborn

said. “It’s a high-impact show featuring newsroom

drama and the sex appeal of aviation.”

Sanborn added there are two more series in

development: Cutting-Edge Medicine, which takes

viewers on an unscripted adventure as America’s

breakthrough medical approaches are examined, and

You Can Make A Difference, a show that finds people

in need and matches them up with businesses that

can use them.

“I probably wouldn’t have attempted an undertaking

as large as this one in any other city in Florida,”

Sanborn said. “This city is so arts-friendly and so

committed. Right here, we’ve got set designers,

lighting designers. And you’ve got Ringling College of

Art and Design, New College, and local high schools

filled with very talented students that we can provide a

mentoring environment for.”

Speaking of Ringling College, here’s another asset

filmmakers are looking to utilize: a brand new, 3,000

square-foot post-production facility planned to open on

the first floor of their Goldstein Center by August, 2011,

according to Dr. Larry Thompson, college president. “It

will hold a number of editing suites, dubbing stations,

a viewing area, and some offices,” Thompson said,

adding that Sarasota County has underwritten the

facility’s $1.5 million price tag, chipping in an extra

quarter million in seed money to help bring in film

companies to work with college students.

Thompson said the college has also developed a

consulting relationship with Future Films, LLC, which is

helping by making connections between the school and

such Hollywood producers and directors as Paul Schiff

(Rushmore, My Cousin Vinny), Werner Herzog (Grizzly

Man, Fitzcarraldo), and Ed Carroll (chief operating officer

of Rainbow Entertainment Services, which has produced

such series as Mad Men and Breaking Bad).

“These people have come in to work with our

students, helping and teaching them about what the

real world is like,” Thompson said. “We’ll continue

working with them, bringing them in for 6-10 weeks,

and helping them here with post-production work on

their projects through our internship program, where it

would cost less than to do it up in New York.”

Paul Schiff, he added, has already agreed to bring

the film he is currently producing to Ringling for post-

production work.

“Werner Herzog will be coming in March to work

with some of our students over the spring break on

some film-related projects he’s got going,” Thompson

said. “And Andy Garcia will soon come here to meet

Clockwise:

Ken Sanborn, in his office at Sanborn

Studios. The Emmy award in the background

is one of two he has won for

aerial photo-journalism.

Audience Shot of Digital

Filmmaking Studio Lab

series.

Green screen technology is

just one aspect of what Sanborn

Studios plans to offer the filmmaking community

in greater Sarasota.

with our students. That’s invaluable to them.”

Sam Logan, a partner in Future Films and a

native Sarasotan, agreed. “It’s amazing to watch

somebody like Werner Herzog or Ed Carroll or Paul

Schiff answer the question, ‘How did you get started

and how did you end up where you are?’” Logan

said. “That’s one of the greatest joys I get out of

this, watching a student find out that Ed Carroll was

a campus deejay. Or that Paul Schiff got started at

MTV and now he makes major motion pictures.”

Are there any synergies going on currently between

Ringling College and Sanborn Studios?

“We’ve spoken a bit to them, telling them we look

forward to working with them,” Thompson said.

“Whenever they have an excess of work, they can

come to us for post-production needs. Yes, we’re very

excited about working with them.”

Thompson added that the three-way mix of

interested director/producers, Sanborn Studios, and

the Ringling post-production facility will be hard to

beat. “It’s a real different kind of strategy, and I think

it has incredible potential to work,” Thompson said.

“It’s a win-win-win for everybody. And when these

producers and directors find out about the incredible

talent of our students, they’re just amazed by it.”

Logan concurred. “I’m excited because when you

bring these people to this town and they spend some

quality time here and they work and see the talent

pool that’s here, they realize how special Sarasota is,”

Logan said.

Above:Ringling students

digitally shoots a scene for a

class project.

Student working in the Ringling Design Center.

The three-way mix of interested director/producers, Sanborn Studios, and the Ringling post-production facility will be hard to beat. It’s a real different kind of strategy, and I think it has incredible potential to work, It’s a win-win-win for everybody.

– Dr. Larry Thompson

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Nate Jacobs

West Coast Black Theatre Troupe

Founderby Gus Mollasis

Where were you born?

Tampa, Florida.

Describe some of your first experiences in discovering your tal-

ents from your childhood.

I always loved theater, but I was shy and introverted. People

don’t believe that today but I was. I have nine brothers and one

sister and I was the least likely one that you would notice. I was

the quiet one in the corner, but I always observed and listened.

So I got involved in some plays at church. As long as I wasn’t

too out front, I was okay. I didn’t want to sing in front of anybody.

I would sing in the backyard at my grandma’s house by myself.

Sometimes I would hear my family talking and asking, “Who’s

singing like that?” I wouldn’t say anything. My brothers would

coax me into playing a bunch of sports, but that wasn’t my thing.

I was a natural storyteller and my brothers would drag me into

telling them a story.

Did you have any heroes growing up?

I really respected my grandmother, a poor girl from Georgia who

moved to Florida on her own. She always had this job at the

dietary department at the local hospital and she built this house

from the ground up. She was shoulder to shoulder with my moth-

er raising us after my parents split up. I remember her just han-

dling it – always handling it, always strong, always there. So when

I was a kid, I would look at this woman and be amazed, because

she just had it together, until she left here at almost 96 years old.

Ceola Webb was my hero. She would say this thing that I remem-

ber to this day. One day we were arguing over the ownership of

something. She said, “If you got your own, you wouldn’t have to

ask anybody for anything. You always get your own and then you

don’t worry about somebody taking or borrowing it. Always get

your own.” That was a lesson for all us, on how to control your

destiny. You control it by providing for yourself.

Describe your first experience going to the theater.

I was in the third grade and they took us to see Hansel and Gretel at

this big theater. All this color, music and excitement filled my senses.

I was totally taken by it. As I rode away from that theater, it was so

powerful to me that it weighed on me for years. I was fascinated at

what theater had done for me. That was my first key exposure. I

didn’t know what to do with it. I just knew that it captivated me.

Nate from an interview

His part in life is simple and one role to which he always goes back. Nate Jacobs is perfectly cast as a

man with many talents, who cares and nurtures many talented people to be their best and to own every

role that they play in their lives. It is something that would make his grandma proud. Today he leads the

West Coast Black Theatre Troupe into a new era doing what he has always done best, telling stories

to the masses while enjoying every play one day at a time. Recently I sat down with him, and we took

a look a look at some scenes from an interview of his life.


Describe a moment when the light bulb went off and you real-

ized that theater may be in your future.

I was taking a theater class and I was the prop person. Well

a kid got fired from the play, so the drama teacher, Mr. Davis,

approached me and asked me if I wanted to be in a play. He

gave me a script and told me to take a look at it. I went home

and memorized this part. The next day he was shocked that I

memorized it. He said, “I told you to read the play, not memorize

it.” So he asked what did I learn? I spilled out all these lines.

And that day he told me, “You are a natural, you belong in the

theater.” I ended up in the play. It was called Eden. And it was

about a West Indian family, moving into America and confront-

ing prejudice from everybody. I was nervous, nervous, nervous,

nervous, but I held that role down. That was my first real taste

with real theater. I knew I liked it. But I didn’t know what to do

after that experience.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I wanted to do television. I would watch The Carol Burnett Show.

I was fascinated by that woman and I was glued to the TV. It was

my dream, but I couldn’t see how that could ever happen to me.

Before establishing the WBTT in Sarasota who were some of

the people that influenced your direction into theater and to

Sarasota?

I was attending Florida A&M University and I was influenced by

my mentor, Dr. Henry L. Porter, who came to Tallahassee and

taught me about self-confidence and the choir. He came to

Sarasota and asked me if I would head up the art department

at school, because I had graduated with a fine arts degree.

When I got there I realized these kids would not keep quiet but

I knew how to handle this, so I started developing musicals

and unique original plays. We began doing plays at Christmas,

in the spring and for black history month. They began to take

on this popularity. This was at West Coast School for Human

Development.

Who was another big influence in your involvement in theater?

My brother was the president of the drama club at FAMU and he

was getting ready to go to law school at Howard. I found myself

in the theater at FAMU. I’d be sitting there in the theater say-

ing, “This is kind of cool, but I could never do that, I’m too shy.”

Something inside of me was calling to theater, but shyness was

keeping me away from it. As I started to develop, people would

say, “You’re so funny you should be in the theater.” Eventually

I found myself in a play. My brother Michael loved theater and

would corral me into doing theater at the church plays. We would

put on shows. I always wanted to be in the back. Michael would

call to tell me his theater experiences. He’d say I saw this and I

saw that, and I thought of you. I remember when he saw Dream

Girls, he’d call and I lived the play vicariously through him. He

was seeing the world. I was at home babysitting my five younger

siblings with my mom. That was my part-time job as well as go-

ing to school. I was doing all this and I became tired of taking

care of all these kids. So as I applied for jobs out of college and

the jobs that they called me back for were for things like a youth

counselor. I had a moment of self-realization. I knew I had some-

thing that related to kids and young people. I looked at myself

and said, “Nate, embrace it, stop fighting it.” And that is how this

company started.

The West Coast Black Theatre Troupe is...

A stage of discovery, where a person such as I who has limited

exposure to the arts, can come into our studio and get the devel-

opment, training and opportunity to actually express what they

want to do in the performing arts.

How important is it for the black community in Sarasota to

have this voice in theater?

The purpose of black theater is to keep that voice alive — the

voices of Langston Hughes, James Baldwin, August Wilson, the

stories, the experiences, the contributions of African-Americans

— and a lot has been told through theater. If the youth don’t get

exposed to them, those legacies will die. And the purpose of

black theater is to be the steward of that work, and expose it to

generations to come.

When people leave your theater what do you hope they take

home with them?

Inspiration, joy, insight and knowledge of something that they

didn’t know before they came through that door.

What does the WBTT mean to you?

It is an essential part of this cultural community, because I know

for a fact, without a platform that we provide in this commu-

nity, there are a lot of extremely talented artists that would fall

through the cracks.

How does the new space on Orange feel to you and the troupe?

It gives us a sense of ownership and confirmation that we have

a voice in this richly cultured community. There is a professional-

ism and stability about you when you have a building. They know

where to find you and it tells people that you are going to be

around for awhile.

What do you enjoy more, acting in a play or directing a play?

They are two different feelings. I enjoy them both, but personally

I enjoy performing more.


Describe the feeling you get when you discover, train and

mentor new talent?

That is the joy of what I do. That is my gift and I know that’s my

gift. That is who I am. That is Nate Jacobs. That is my reward

for doing this.

How quick do you know if a performer has that special thing

that it takes to become a great performer and star?

Almost immediate. I have this sixth-sense. Recently a young

man came in and read for me for the Marvin Gaye show. Im-

mediately I saw it. He’s an actor. He doesn’t know it yet, but he

is. So now he’s going to be starring in this show.

What is your advice to young people who think they have

that special something?

Encourage their parents to get them involved on some level

of the performing arts. And that’s when they will know if they

have it.

How do you decide if a show has merit and should be put up

on your stage?

I have a standard that I go by. It has to be quality material and

have some significance as far as the fabric of American life or

life, period. For example, we do our Motown shows because

they capture the vision of Berry Gordy Jr. and a time that

sadly will not come in music again. I wanted to put that show

on not only because the music is so good, but also because

I respect that legacy.

I love theater because...

of how it affects mankind. People are receptive to it. People

will sit in a theater and embrace stuff that they will not in any

other venue and walk out of that theater totally transformed.

Recently a mom came up to me in tears and thanked me for

having a character in a play that dissuaded a young black man

from wearing his pants low — ala rappers. Her son, after see-

ing the play, tucked in his shirt and pulled his pants up.

What do you hope becomes the legacy of WBTT?

A perpetual door for aspiring artists to walk through to find

training, guidance and direction and a platform to develop into

that artist they dream to be.

When the final curtain closes on you and you have produced

your last show, how do you want to be remembered?

That I inspired somebody to be better and I helped somebody

be the best at what they do.

50th Anniversary WeekendMost events are free!

February 11-12, 2011

Celebration on the Bay Celebration on the Bay

NEW COLLEGE AT 50 FESTIVALstudent performances, panel dis-cussions, history exhibits, mini-classes. FIREWORKS & CONCERTwith the Sarasota Orchestra and catered reception. For information, call 941.487.4888.

TRIBUTE DINNERThe Ritz-Carlton, Feb 11, music by

GetBack! Cast of Beatlemania Reservations, 941.487.4800

50th.ncf.edu

http://www.50th.ncf.edu

CIRCLE OFCIRCLE OF

CONFUSIONBy Sue Blue (Photo by www.aerialphs.com)



My boss recently asked me if an apostrophe should be placed in the word St.

Armand’s. Or is it properly spelled St. Armands without the apostrophe? Or

maybe, St Armands’? It’s understandable that he is confused. He is from Mas-

sachusetts. But I am from Sarasota and I’m also confused. No matter, it is flat-

tering that the boss believes I am an authority on anything Sarasotan. Or is it Sarasotian?

The real confusion began back in 1893 when a Frenchman, who had been living in Louisiana,

came to Sarasota to homestead on a tiny island in Sarasota Bay. There was nothing on this little

piece of land that would attract any living being except the creatures thriving in the mangroves.

The Frenchman paid $21.71 for three tracts of land where he raised produce, which he sold in a

dockside market after rowing across the bay to the mainland. His name was St. Amand. Notice

the absence of the letter “r”. A clerk (we’ll blame it on the hired help) may have added it when pre-

paring the homestead papers. From that time on unto this day, that bit of land has been known as

St. Armand’s. The name usually appears without the apostrophe for unknown reasons.

In 1911, John Ringling and his lovely wife, Mable, came here to vacation. Sarasota caught their

fancy and they bought a home near the bayfront in 1912 where they stayed while preparing to

build the palatial Ca’d’Zan. John Ringling began to invest in Sarasota’s future. By 1917 he’d

purchased the “Ringling Isles” where his Ringling Estates dreams could grow.

The St. Armands Key property was the focal point of “Mister John’s” vision. The plans, devised

by a landscape architect, placed streets to be lined with residential lots radiating from a shop-

ping-dining circle of smart shops and gourmet restaurants. By 1925, Ringling had begun work

on the causeway that would join the mainland of downtown Sarasota to St. Armands Key.

The causeway opened one year later when Ringling, in his green Rolls Royce, drove across

Sarasota Bay to begin the Ringling Estates venture. It must have been an exciting, circus-like

atmosphere as the crowds followed to the bandstand in the Circle where the National Czecho-

slovakian Band played concerts all afternoon. An estimation of the enthusiasm for Ringling’s

development was reflected in the claimed one million dollars of property sales on that first day.


Left: Aerial view of St. Armands in 1926 shortly after opening of the Ringling Estates to the public. (Photo courtesy of The History Center)

Right: John Ringling’s St. Armand’s Circle, designed by landscape architect, John J. Watson, still contains the Italian statuary from Rome, Naples and Venice collected by the Ringlings. (Picture circa late 1925 courtesy of The History Center of Sarasota.)

The boom time ended very quickly. By 1928, Sarasota was in

deep financial trouble. Land sales stopped completely. The 1929

crash followed and the entire nation sank into depression. During

the ‘30s and ‘40s St. Armands Circle was just a roundabout way

of getting over to Lido Beach. The Italian statuary Ringling had

placed in this park-like setting peered out accusingly through the

overgrown mass of tropical foliage.

“Mister John” died in 1936. His real estate office building stood

vacant, unused and neglected for decades. Rudy Bundy, the or-

chestra leader who had come here to open the Lido Casino, later

serving as vice-president/treasurer for Ringling Brothers, Bar-

num and Bailey Circus, told a story about one middle of the night

adventure he experienced with his good friend, John Ringling

North. They had an idea for an unusual nightclub and, inspired

by the moment, they broke into the deserted real estate office

thinking it might be just right for what they had in mind. They

decided it was too small for their big idea and fortunately made a

clean getaway before any night watchman discovered the break-

ing and entering. Bundy and North did open that nightclub which

they called the M’ToTo Room in the John Ringling Hotel. Bundy’s

orchestra furnished the music while circus acts (a dancing horse,

trapeze artists, jugglers tossing flames into the candelabra) ap-

peared nightly. M’ToTo Room was a smashing success.

Gradually, during the 1950s, St. Armands began to stir. Shops

were built and restaurants found a clientele eager to experience

fine dining in a casual atmosphere. John Ringling’s historic real

estate office building has housed Café L’Europe since 1973. The

Circle boasts no dancing horses, no theatres, no operas, nor a

symphony hall, yet St. Armands Circle is a great source of enter-

tainment. While waiting in the inevitable traffic for pedestrians to

cross the streets, people-watching is a must. Some individuals

are startled that you have actually stopped your car to give them

a chance to scurry across. Others stroll leisurely while staring

ahead with a superior eyebrow-raised demeanor. Others are so

grateful they wave and smile and almost curtsy. And the attire!

During our recent frosty days those dear tourists from the great

frozen tundra appear in their sleeveless shirts and short shorts

while I’m freezing in my heated auto.

St. Armands is currently booming. There are more than 130 elegant

shops, galleries, and boutiques. The restaurants and sidewalk cafes

offer diverse and tasteful dining experiences. When driving or walk-

ing down the streets leading away from the Circle, the residential

architecture displays a pleasing blend of historic and contemporary

styles. John Ringling never had the opportunity of realizing his dream

but his vision for St. Armands is very much in evidence today.

While reviewing a bit of Sarasota history to verify my dates for this

article, the question of St. Armands (without the apostrophe) or

St. Armand’s (with the apostrophe) appeared again and again.

One author, considered to be the absolute authority on Sarasota

history, spelled St. Armand’s in one paragraph and in the fol-

lowing paragraph he spelled the name minus the apostrophe.

I must assume that he was also confused. I have decided not

to be confused. I will henceforth base my spelling on the City

of Sarasota’s street sign which boldly proclaims “St. Armands

Circle” (no apostrophe). It doesn’t really make sense but I figure

you can’t fight City Hall.

��


LASIK, Cataract and Lens Replacement Surgeon

With today’s technological advances in the field of refractive

surgery, there are more options than ever for people suffering

from poor vision due to cataracts, macular degeneration and

other serious eye conditions. All-laser LASIK, cataract surgery,

and the recently FDA-approved implantable miniature telescope

(IMT) offer exciting solutions for many of our patients.

Over 7 million LASIK Procedures Performed

LASIK has been the most studied elective surgery ever per-

formed. With over 7 million procedures performed in the US to

date, LASIK has proven itself to be the most successful and most

popular when compared to any other form of elective surgery.

The biggest leap forward came when LASIK was taken to an

all-laser level, what we call “All-Laser LASIK.” Center For Sight

was the first practice on the west coast of Florida to offer it

and the only practice in the Sarasota area that offers it today.

With “All-Laser LASIK,” LASIK evolved from blade-based into

a blade-free procedure, with no sharp objects or needles. This

advancement transformed the surgery into a micron-precision

procedure that is safer and more effective than the traditional

blade-based surgery. Not only do we see fewer complications

and faster recovery, we also see better vision for our patients.

These claims have been supported by dozens of comparisons

in the scientific literature.

Cataract Surgery and Lens Replacement Surgery

As we age, our natural lens begins to lose its flexibility, and we

develop presbyopia (the need for reading glasses). Later in life,

we start to get clouding in that lens, which is called a cataract.

If the cataract interferes with vision, it can be corrected with

surgery—removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a new

artificial lens or IOL. The cosmetic form of cataract surgery is

lens replacement surgery or refractive lens exchange. This is

an elective procedure for a patient who doesn’t have cataracts,

but wants to be rid of their glasses. We can remove their natural

lens, which is the wrong power for their eye, and exchange it

with a new lens of the right power.

Life-changing Advanced Lenses

Cataract surgery patients have many options when it comes

to modern cataract surgery. One very important choice for pa-

tients is which lens to choose: standard or advanced.

Advanced lenses have completely revolutionized cataract and

lens replacement surgery because they provide distance vision

and reading vision in both eyes — typically without glasses. There

are two types of advanced lenses: the multifocal type such as the

ReSTOR® lens, and the accommodating type, such as the Crys-

talens®. Unlike standard lenses, advanced lenses can treat both a

person’s cataracts and provide near and far vision in both eyes.

Based on our experience at Center For Sight, 85 to 95 percent

of our patients with advanced lenses will not use glasses for any

activity whatsoever. We see some of the happiest patients you

can imagine. It’s a very gratifying part of what I do.

Implantable Miniature Telescope

A revolutionary development in ophthalmology is the Implant-

able Miniature Telescope (IMT), a device recently approved by

the FDA. This device may help restore vision in patients with

severe macular degeneration. The IMT, about the size of a pea,

is surgically implanted into the eye and acts like a telephoto lens

of a camera. Once implanted, the telescope projects enlarged

images onto healthy areas of the central retina outside the de-

generated macula, enabling the patient to see. This painless

procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. We expect to

start implanting the lens in early 2011.

For more information, please visit CenterForSight.net or call 941-

925-2020. LASIK, Cataract and Lens Replacement Surgeon Dr.

William Lahners is Medical Director and Director of Laser Vi-

sion Services at Center For Sight. Assistant Clinical Professor

of Ophthalmology at the University of South Florida, Dr. Lahn-

ers is board certified in ophthalmology by the American Board

of Ophthalmology and in LASIK by the American Board of Eye

Surgery. He has authored multiple textbook chapters on vision

correction and recently was the chief editor of the chapter in the

online interactive ophthalmology textbook.

(Data source on LASIK: Washington Post, April 25, 2008)

BRINGING CLEARVISION TO LIFE

By William J. Lahners, MD, FACS


Cancer is a very complex disease. No one thing will

cause cancer; instead a combination of events will trig-

ger the disease. These events include genetic predispo-

sition, genetic damage form carcinogens and environ-

mental factors. There are genetic cancers but they are a

small percentage of the cancers diagnosed. For example

breast cancer is genetic in only 5% of the women. What

it is well known is that smoking causes cancer of the

lung, head and neck, pancreas and bladder cancer.

What I can do to decrease my risk of cancer?

It is important to live as healthy as possible. Eat a bal-

anced diet, exercise and avoid carcinogens like ciga-

rettes. If you have a very strong family history of cancer

see your physician for the recommended screening pro-

grams, for example mammograms and colonoscopies.

Remember cancer is curable when diagnosed early.

What are the symptoms of cancer?

The symptoms usually depend on the organ where the

cancer has originated. However, these are symptoms

that are usually associated with cancer. Any new lump,

changing moles, changes in bowel habits, rectal bleed-

ing, and persistent and worsening pain in any part of

the body, persistent cough or blood in the sputum,

weight loss and lack of appetite.

What I can do if I am diagnosed with cancer?

The most important thing is to get involved in your care.

You need to know what type of cancer you have, what

stage, and you need to ask your doctor what types of

treatment are available to you. Remember there is no

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOWABOUT CANCER

By M. Claudia Mallarino, MD

better advocate for your health than you.

How is cancer treated?

Cancer treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach.

The team usually includes a surgeon, oncologist and

radiation oncologist. If the tumors can be removed,

that it is usually the best choice. Once the tumor is

removed many patients need to receive adjuvant che-

motherapy and radiotherapy in order to decrease the

risk of recurrence. The reason cancer patients require

chemotherapy and or radiation therapy even after the

tumor is completely removed, is because cancer cells

can be dislodge and travel in the lymphatic and blood

stream and later on cause metastasis or recurrence of

the cancer. Most patients are cured with this multidis-

ciplinary approach as long as the cancer is diagnosed

in an early stage. It is important to remember that the

best chance of cure is at diagnosis. Once the cancer

comes back it is treatable but not usually curable.

We at Lakewood Ranch Cancer Center are offering a

multidisciplinary approach of treatment. Patients diag-

nosed with cancer will be seen the same day by the on-

cologist and the radiation oncologist. This approach of-

fers the patient a state of the art care close to home. The

center also offers the latest research protocols where

patient can have access to the experimental treatments

even before they are available to all the patients.

Medical Oncologist M. Claudia Mallarino, MD practices

at Florida Cancer Specialist, 6310 Health Park Way Suite

200, Bradenton, FL 34202. 941.907.4737


Cancer is common in dogs and cats. It accounts for almost

half of the deaths of pets over 10 years of age. Cats get

fewer cancers than humans but dogs get cancer at roughly

the same rate. Some frequently asked questions and an-

swers about cancer in dogs and cats have been published

by the American Veterinary Medical Association and Veteri-

nary Cancer Society and are listed below.

What are neoplasia, tumors and cancer?

Neoplasia is the uncontrolled, abnormal growth of cells or

tissues in the body, and the abnormal growth itself is called

a neoplasm or tumor. It can be benign or malignant. Benign

neoplasms do not grow aggressively, do not invade the sur-

rounding body tissues, and do not spread throughout the

body. Malignant neoplasms, on the other hand, tend to grow

rapidly, invade the tissues around them and spread or me-

tastasie to other parts of the body.

How is it Diagnosed?

Neoplasia is often suspected on the basis of the pet’s medi-

cal history and physical exam. Additional tests, such as ra-

diographs (x-rays), blood tests, and ultrasound exams, may

be necessary to confirm neoplasia. A biopsy, taking a tissue

sample from the neoplasm for examination under a micro-

scope, is usually necessary to confirm the diagnosis and

help determine if the neoplasm is benign or malignant. Ad-

ditional biopsies of other tissues, such as lymph nodes, may

be necessary to determine how far a malignant neoplasm

(cancer) has spread.

Is neoplasia preventable?

Unfortunately, the cause of most neoplastic diseases is

not known and, therefore, prevention is difficult. Early de-

tection and treatment are the best ways to manage neo-

plasia in pets.

CANCER INCOMPANION ANIMALS

By Heidi Ward, DEM

How is cancer treated?

Each type of neoplasia requires individual care and may

include one or a combination of treatment therapies such

as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, cryosurgery (freezing),

hyperthermia (heating) or immunotherapy. Your pets overall

health is important too, and your veterinarian may recom-

mend dietary changes or other things to help your pet better

respond to treatment. Once you have a diagnosis, your vet-

erinarian will discuss the best treatment option(s) for your pet

and the risks and side effects associated with each option.

Pain management is also an important part of treatment.

Some types of neoplasia can be cured, but other types can

only be managed to decrease spread and prolong your pets

comfort and life as much as possible. How early a neoplasm

is detected and the type of neoplasm are often the biggest

factors determining the success of treatment.

Sometimes, euthanasia is considered when a pet has neo-

plasia (especially with some cancers). Before you make your

decision for treatment or euthanasia, discuss the options so

you can make the best choice for your pet and your family.

What is the success rate?

This strongly depends upon the type and extent of the neo-

plasia, as well as the aggressiveness of therapy. Benign neo-

plasms are usually easier to treat and treatment of any type

of neoplasia is more likely to be successful if the neoplasms

are detected early. Although some neoplasms (especially

more aggressive cancers) cannot be cured, treatment can

prolong your pet’s life and improve their quality of life.

Dr. Heidi Ward practices at Gulf Coast Veterinary Oncol-

ogy and Internal Medicine, 7519 S. Tamiami Trail, Sara-

sota, FL, 34231. 941.926.1920


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THE GOLDEN APPLE DINNER THEATREDrag Queen Bingo

Leave your inhibitions and your delicate sensibilities at the

door before entering The Golden Apple Dinner Theatre any Fri-

day night for Drag Queen Bingo — a freewheeling, hell-raising,

couture-conscious evening of gender-bending decadence and

rib-tickling fun.

And bingo.

No, this is not the kind of bingo you’ll find at your local church

hall, thank God. With co-hostesses Beneva Fruitville (Berry Ayers,

who also created the show) and Lindsay Carlton (Greyling John-

son) dictating the rules, you’ll barely realize it’s the same game.

But it is, with hilarious surprises, detours, and consequences

along the way.

I won’t give it all away here, because you really have to see it

to believe it. Suffice it to say that whenever Beneva draws an “O”

number, you’d better make a big “O” with your arms and quick,

or suffer her wrath. Move too slowly in making this “air vagina,”

guys, and she’ll “accidentally” drop a ball, forcing you to come up

on stage and pick it up — after taking off your shirt, of course. If

you win a game of bingo, you’ll enjoy a nice prize. But don’t think

you’re getting away that easy. Beneva will lead the audience in a

very special curse, just for you!

It’s all in the spirit of good fun. And in between games, Ayers

and Johnson prove themselves talented singers and lip-synchers,

performing a collection of songs by current and former divas that

are guaranteed to please. Wave a dollar bill in front of them and

they’ll even come over for a special moment with you!

Doors open every Friday at 6:30 p.m., and the show starts

at 8 p.m. Get there early for a menu of “light bites” consisting of

burgers, salads, quesadillas, cocoanut shrimp, and more. And be

sure to save room for the free jello shots that everyone gets when

a very special number is drawn. Can you guess what that number

might be ...?

Coming up at The Golden Apple are A Royal Audience With

Dame Edna, I Do! I Do!, and Avenue Q. Reserve your seats now

by calling the box office at (941) 366-5454 or visit their Web site at

www.thegoldenapple.com.

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATREThe 39 Steps

If you’re a fan of Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic films or simply enjoy

a rousing evening of inventive comedy performed at breakneck

speed by a phenomenally talented quartet of actors, you mustn’t

miss this fabulous show, now playing at Florida Studio Theatre’s

Gompertz Theatre through Feb. 20.

The plot, loosely based by Patrick Barlow around Hitchcock’s

1935 film of the same name, discovers Richard Hannay (Michael

Frederic) as a wanted man trying to prove his innocence on a mur-

der charge while thrust into the center of a nefarious Nazi-inspired

conspiracy to achieve world domination.

As Mr. Frederic’s Hannay ricochets from London to the

Scottish countryside, he evades the authorities and unravels the

plot. Along the way, he encounters Curran Connor and Sheffield

Chastain as a veritable army of plodding policemen, evil agents,

Highlander hoteliers, swamp bogs (yes, I said swamp bogs!), and

(respectively) the oddly gifted Mr. Memory, hypnotized to remem-

ber details of war-making weaponry and the diabolical Professor

Jordan, dedicated to enslaving the planet under a Nazi regime.

Mr. Frederic smoothly blends all of the most alluring quali-

ties of Hitchcock’s leading men: loyalty, patriotism, good looks,

quick wit, dry humor, and an unfailing dedication to overcome any

obstacle. Messers Connor and Chastain seamlessly morph from

character to character, in many cases simultaneously conducting

conversations with each other — and with themselves individually

— as they create a zany world of Hitchcock’s colorful supporting

players. Letitia Lange creatively handles all of the ladies’ parts,

from a femme fatale spy to a sex-starved Scottish housewife to an

unwilling and clueless heroine, handcuffed to Hannay. The overall

effect is dizzying and stupendous.

A respectful nod must also go to director Eric Hissom, whose

sure hand with the material and madcap pacing unerringly steer

us through this clever play, and whose respect for Hitchcock’s

genre is lovingly expressed throughout. Hitchcock fans will no

doubt spot shrewdly placed tributes to many of his films in visual,

musical, and spoken references all along the way. Add to that Jo-

seph P. Oshry’s lush lighting, April Soroko’s flexible sets, and Britt

CURTAINCALLBy Steven J. Smith

Sandusky’s wonderful sound design, and you’ve got an

evening of theater that simply can’t be beat.

Coming soon to FST are Race and Ghost-Writer. For

more info on any of these shows or to order tickets, call

the box office at (941) 366-9000 or visit them online at

www.floridastudiotheatre.org.

THE WESTCOAST BLACK THEATRE TROUPEAin’t Misbehavin’

The joint was jumpin’ over at the Westcoast Black

Theatre Troupe’s new digs, on 1646 10th Way just off

North Orange, where their recent production of Ain’t

Misbehavin’ was a joy to the eyes and ears.

Under the lively direction and choreography by Har-

ry Bryce and the phenomenal music direction of LaTerry

Butler, this show is a happy-go-lucky tribute to one of the

jazz era’s brightest lights and greatest talents — Thomas

“Fats” Waller, who put his indelible stamp on a music

form that endures to this day.

Waller died of pneumonia at the tender age of 39,

but wrote enough hit songs for twice as many years,

from “Honeysuckle Rose” and “I Can’t Give You Any-

thing But Love” to “Mean To Me,” “The Joint Is Jumpin,’”

and “I’m Gonna Sit Right Down And Write Myself A Let-

ter,” to name a few.

The cast was, in a word, terrific. Ariel Blue knocked

us out with “Squeeze Me,” Leon Pitts put us in stitches

with “Your Feet’s Too Big,” Jnana Cherie seduced us with

“Keepin’ Out Of Mischief Now,” Whitney Johnson broke

our hearts with “Mean To Me,” and Donald Frison’s devil-

ish charisma bowled us over with “The Viper’s Drag” and

“The Reefer Song.”

The company wowed us at the end with “Black And

Blue,” a searing anthem of racial prejudice, and brought

it home with an absolutely smashing encore of “Ain’t

Misbehavin.’” A few minor technical glitches failed to

curtail this joyride, and once the WBTT gets completely

settled in I’m sure we’re going to be enjoying their offer-

ings for years to come.

Upcoming WBBT productions include Marvin Gaye,

Five Guys Named Moe, and Hi De Hi De Ho! — Cab

Calloway. Call the box office for more information and

reservations at (941) 366-1505, and visit them online at

www.wbttroupe.org.

Get your tickets to upcoming performances you won’t want to miss!Marvin Gaye, “The Prince of Soul” The Man and His MusicRuns through February 20 / Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe / 941.366.1505An original musical celebrating the extraordinary life an music of singer/

songwriter Marvin Gaye.

RaceRuns through March 19 / Florida Studio Theatre / 941.366.9000A provocative new legal drama by Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winner

David Mamet.

Avenue QFebruary 15 - April 10 / Golden Apple Dinner Theatre / 941.366.5454A new breed of musical this 3 Tony Award winning musical is hilariously

performed by a wonderful mix of humans and puppets.

La BêteRuns through February 20 / Asolo Repertory Theatre / 941.381.8000A great classical actor fights to protect tradition from the new, the outra-

geous, the vulgar, the truly popular. A riotously hilarious and theatrically

brilliant struggle that may have no winners.

12 Angry MenRuns through March 26 / Asolo Repertory Theatre / 941.381.8000Twelve strangers united only by their civic duty struggle to make the right

decision in this contemporary classic. The jury’s electric debate over a

young man’s fate will keep you riveted ‘til the final curtain.

Guys & DollsFebruary 17 – March 6 / Manatee Players / 941.748.5875Set in Damon Runyon’s mythical New York City, this oddball romantic

comedy soars with the spirit of Broadway as it introduces us to a cast of

vivid characters who have become legends in the canon.

RumorsFebruary 17 – 27 / The Players Theatre / 941.365.2494 Four couples go to the townhouse of a deputy New York City mayor and his

wife to celebrate their tenth wedding anniversary, but the party never begins

because the host has shot himself in the head and his wife is missing.

La boheme / Don Giovanni / I Lombardi / The CrucibleVarious dates for all 4 Operas during February and March / Sarasota Opera / 941.366.8450

Beauty and the BeastFebruary 1 – 9 / Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall / 941.953.3368This classic musical love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lav-

ish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers.

The King & IFebruary 15 – March 13 / Venice Theatre / 941.488.1115Rodgers and Hammerstein’s timeless classic musical transports you to

1862 Siam.

TICKETS


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scene | social View all photos at scenesarasota.com

The 7th annual Perlman & Pearls gala, presented by The Perlman

Music Program/Suncoast (PMP), was held at Michael’s On

East. More than 350 people attended the gala, including Itzhak and

Toby Perlman, 35 PMP students and 15 faculty members. The gala

celebrates the culmination of the two-week PMP Winter Residency,

which offers unparalleled musical training for young students who

play the violin, viola, cello, and bass. A live auction, hosted by Jimmy

Dean, featured a violin signed by Mr. Perlman and his students, and a

week’s stay in Aspen, Colorado. This festive event was chaired by Liz

Barzell, Debbie Haspel, and Fran Lambert, and included a slideshow

by Barbara Brizdle and a keynote speech by Toby Perlman. The

magnificent centerpieces were created by Mr. Florist.

Fran Lambert, Debbie Haspel& Elizabeth Power

Phot

ogra

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by C

liff R

oles

Perlman & Pearls Gala

Barbara Brizdle & Larry Schoenberg with Marion & Bernard Levine

Bill & Adrienne Lindecamp

Itzhak & Toby Perlman

Roz Goldberg & Alan Bandler

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The Nikias family began the legacy of owning and operating restaurants in New

York and wanting a change of lifestyle for themselves and their children, moved to

SW Florida in the late 1970’s. It wasn’t long after that move that Harry Nikias opened

several restaurants here in Sarasota, including the Dutch Valley (owned and oper-

ated for 20 years), Millie’s and the Village Café. The latter 2 are still operated today

by George Nikias and Tom Kouvatsos, Harry’s son and nephew.

In recent years, Harry developed a vision for an exceptional outdoor patio/bar,

one that would be unrivaled in the Sarasota area, and told his son George and neph-

ews Dino Kouvatsos and Tommy about his vision. The boys then took Harry’s ideas,

added their love of sports and passions for both cooking and eating, and ran with

them to build Sarasota’s premium outdoor sports bar, one that is second to none.

This envisioned restaurant and bar is now the Legacy Grille, located at 6606 South

Tamiami Trail, just south of the Stickney Point Bridge, and is a must see for not only

sports fans, but for everyone.

Legacy is more than just a sports bar (over 30 TV’s that are up to 135”), it is a full

service restaurant that caters to families of all sizes. A small game room is available

to entertain kids of all ages, TV’s that can be seen from every angle let dads watch

their favorite games, and widely varied menu choices allow moms to enjoy feeding

their whole families without having to cook! Dino, who brought family recipes (col-

lected from running family owned diners in New York and Connecticut for over 30

years) with him to Florida, is in charge of the kitchen. He doesn’t disappoint with

popular items including Bruschetta Chicken Salad (grilled chicken breast served

over mixed greens and tossed in housemade balsamic dressing with fresh tomato

basil salsa, avocado, bleu cheese crumbles and diced red onion), Angry Lobster

Pasta (fresh lobster tail and claw meat sautéed with olive oil and garlic, tossed with

bow tie pasta and a seasoned tomato cream sauce) and fresh daily specials. He is

also sure to please sports fans with juicy burgers, delicious chicken wings and per-

sonal pizzas, and has included many kid-friendly affordable menu options as well.

The new place in town is a “must” for all locals, snowbirds and tourists. Legacy

Grille in Sarasota: 3 cousins, 3 generations, and one location that is certain to

please everyone.

6606 South Tamiami Trail

941-225-7200Open Daily, 11am-Midnight

THE PERFECT BLEND OF SPORTS, FOOD & DRINK

Although the year’s shortest month manages to hold two very big opportunities for a pleasurable night out — the Super Bowl and Valentine’s Day — once those much-anticipated (by some) events have passed, that still leaves 26 days begging for a bit of fun. Whether it’s a hankering for kicking back to live music or kicking up your heels with some fancy footwork, ‘tis season and we’ve got plenty of choices.

COOL PLACESTO GET YOUR GROOVE ON

By Susan Cullen


When nothing will do but some island styling

and a fruity libation, making your way out to

The Beach House or Sandbar restaurants

on Anna Maria Island will help you get your

groove on. So will a trip to Siesta Key Village where “the

block that rocks” allows for strolling and enjoying tunes from

the Beach Club and Siesta Key Oyster Bar to Gilligan’s. But,

much as we love that island vacation vibe and the food to

match, there is oh-so-much more to adore.

Tango Steakhouse & Sushi Bar on St. Armands Key is

livening things up with some sexy salsa dancing on Saturday

nights. Lessons start at 8:30 p.m. and the Latin Party kicks

off at 10 p.m., leaving just enough time in between for some

delectable bites. Keep the Latin theme going with some

house-made empanadas or go for some sushi for which

there is just one word: yum. Friday night’s stay lively with

Scott Curts on the guitar.

New to the Sarasota scene is The Loft Ristobar on Fruitville

Road, which bills itself as a dance club and elegant dining

establishment. At The Loft, you may see anything from live

jazz to a Led Zeppelin cover band. On Thursday nights

ladies are treated to no cover charge and a variety of drink

specials. “We have a Russian DJ who does top 40 dance

music,” according to front-of-house manager Jeff Wilson.

“It’s more like a European club; very high energy.”

He describes the menu as American intercontinental with

influences from Italy, Spain and Cuba. Appetizers range from

Tostones Rellenos, plantain patties topped with a medley of

beef, pork and chicken and spiced with a cilantro-garlic aioli

to a sophisticated fresh tuna tartare garnished with capers,

whole grain mustard and basil vinaigrette. Popular entrees

include Veal Osso Bucco and a Seafood Trio that combines

grouper, shrimp and scallops. At $14 each, the menu lives

up to Wilson’s claim of moderate pricing.

Heading south, Mattison’s Forty-One, with its classy

steakhouse ambiance, serves up live music seven nights a

week, and the dance floor is always open. Whether you’re a

Sinatra fan or love that rock and roll, you’ll find the right tunes

for your moves here. For everything from jazz and blues to

Motown and rock and roll, there’s Jennifer Leigh & Her New

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SARASOTA7602 N. Lockwood Ridge Rd

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941-351-5515www.sarasotalazylobster.com

2 Locations To Serve You:

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Digs on Fridays. Sunday through

Tuesday, Joe Thayer tinkles the

ivories and his smoky vocals both

soothe and stir the senses. Saturday

focuses on local bands with rockin’

dance music, according to Jennifer

Ahearn-Koch, Mattison’s marketing

and PR maven. Local faves like

Omni and the Venturas are on the

schedule as is Eddie and the Edsels.

Mustang Sally anyone?

Whether you’re cutting the rug or

shaking your thang, nourishment

is required. As we’re talking

steakhouse fare here, you can get

a steaming bowl of French onion

soup as a starter or head straight

for the red meat. Steak Blue tops

a rib eye with sharp Gorgonzola,

Applewood-smoked bacon and a

velvety ruby port reduction. Or you

can go with a classic Steak Diane

or Steak Au Poivre. Prefer seafood?

“We serve stone crab claws and

also grouper with a spoonful of

caviar that we get from Mote,”

Ahearn-Koch said.

For a different twist on island

style, try the Polynesian-themed

Trader Vic’s, which also offers live

entertainment on its water-view

patio every Friday and Saturday.

As the restaurant is along the I-75

corridor, this is not the Gulf we’re

talking about, but a pretty setting

nevertheless. “Music is supplied

by a range of different bands. For

the most part they are classic

rock, boat music, island style

and upbeat,” says Shane Brewer,

general manager.

Menu items are island inspired. “We

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make everything on the menu fresh,”

Brewer said. “We have a lot of classic

American dishes that have an island

twist.” Favorites include Caribbean

barbecued chicken wings with a

homemade sweet Kona sauce that

also moistens a delectably tender

Luau Pulled Pork Sandwich, which

is slow-roasted overnight and

topped with a fruity vinegar (not

mayo) based island slaw. As the

restaurant’s founder Victor Bergeron

is credited with inventing the Mai-

Tai, the cocktail menu is robust

with some 25 different concoctions

available at one of three bars.

One of my personal favorite things to

do — even though it is on Monday

nights and I am usually up before the

birds — is to head to Captain Curt’s

just off the Stickney Bridge on Siesta

Key. After a plateful of traditional

seafood shack grub — a combo of

fish, shrimp and scallops, broiled

or fried, with creamy parsley-boiled

red potatoes — I’m ready to listen

to The Fab Three, a Beatles tribute

band. These three lads clearly enjoy

their music as does the crowd of

all ages, creating a casual, festive

atmosphere where people feel free

to get up and dance a bit at their

tables or (softly) sing along.

What helps take this experience

out of the ordinary is that The Fab

Three tend to choose the less-

clichéd tunes from the Beatle’s

extensive lexicon, eliciting an

“Oh yeah, I remember that one”

response. I always go home with

a smile on my face, and isn’t that

what entertainment is all about?

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Popi’s Place Catering

Award Winning Caterer for St. Barbara’s Greek Orthodox Glendi Festivalall occasions | all event sizes | greek/american

banquet facilities available | 4 convenient locations

Call 941-722-9055 or visit popisplace.com

WHERE RESTAURANTSGO TO SHOP

foxrestaurantequipment.comHours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm, Saturday 10:30-2pm

From James Shea’s Wine Room

In France, Champagne has to be grown in the Champagne

region just as Ports and Sherrys are grown in specifi c regions.

Sherry is a fortifi ed wine made from white grapes that are grown

in Jerez, Spain. Ports come from Portugal in the upper Douro

Valley. The grape varietal used in Sherry is the Palomino grape

and it is produced in many different styles ranging from Fino, the

driest, to the most common known as Cream Sherry. Brandy is

added to fortify the wine. Dry, sweeter Sherries are blends of a

combination of wines such as Muscatel and Pedro Ximenez.

Ports are also a fortifi ed wine but done slightly different than

Sherry in that Brandy is added to stop the fermentation process.

This leaves a residual sugar and intensifi es the alcohol content.

There also many different styles of Port, but one of our favorites

is the Croft, Tawny Port, because it is aged in wooden barrels

for approximately three to four years, which gives off a nice nutty

fl avor. Or why not try Fonseca Bin 27, with has rich ripe fruit

and oak fl avors. Port is traditionally a dessert wine, and I could

not think of a better dessert to enjoy it with than Chef Charlie’s

chocolate truffl es.

From Chef Charlie Flint’s Kitchen

What’s better than a gift for your valentine than chocolate? I

love to mix it up with a big box of chocolate truffl es. You can

fl avor them however your Sweetheart prefers. A bit of citrus,

some crunchy toffee or perhaps a decedent bit of liquor. This

homemade truffl e recipe is quite simple, yet elegant.

For about thirty truffl es, take one and a half pounds of semisweet

chocolate, one and a quarter cups of heavy cream. Finely chop

the chocolate and brim the cream to a boil. Place the chocolate

in a large mixing bowl and pour the hot cream over the top. Mix

well with a whisk and fl avor with the accompaniment of your

choice (don’t be afraid to taste). Pour into a shallow dish and

cool for two to three hours until set well.

When it is set, use a melon ball scoop to shape the truffl es. Scoop,

then roll them in your hands to smooth. After rolling, dust them in

shaved white chocolate or cocoa and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

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SA R A SO TA GA R DEN CLU B’S

76T H F L OW ER SHOW

“Let Freedom

Ring”March 26 & 27, 2011

1131 Boulevard of the Arts

CALL 941-955-0875 FOR MORE INFORMATION!

Featuring more than 200 plants

in horticultural & fl oral design

exhibits, all depicting patriotic

themes in red, white and blue

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& Gulf Coast SanctuarySome cute and furry exotics have joined the Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctu-

ary, which provides a safe place for exotic and farm animals, wildlife or any animal

in need. You can see them, and many more, at the habitat’s annual Animal Extrava-

ganza fundraiser in support of the animals. It is being held every weekend this month

with entertaining educational animal encounter shows on Fridays at 6 p.m.; Satur-

days at 2 and 6 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Gates open an hour and a half before

the show for viewing all the animals, visiting the petting zoo and for camel and pony

rides. Food also is available. Admission is $12 for adults and $7 for children.

Big CatHabitat

Above:Three-year-old Mia is a liger, which is a cross between a lion and a tiger. She is very smart, has beautiful mark-ings and awesome agility. Mia serves as an ambassa-dor, helping to raise funds for the other animals during the educational demonstrations.

Photos by Cliff Roles


Clockwise:These big youngsters, two-year-old Nelson and Tigger, show their kittenish side by doing a little tree-hugging. Along with their sister, Baby, Big Cat Habitat took them in from a rescue facility that did not have room for them.

Chance is a baby chimpanzee whose owners had no experience handling apes. They asked Pam Rosaire, who has worked with chim-panzees for more than 40 years, to be his surrogate mother, giving him a second “Chance.”

Sandy, a 6-month-old female lion cub, came to the Habitat along with her sister, Nioby. The cubs were going to be sold (legally) at an exotic animal auction in another state, but Clayton Rosaire, son of the Habitat’s founder Kay Rosaire, talked the owners into donating the cubs to him.

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SHAPING OUR COMMUNITYsave more than $7,000 a year. And The Salvation Army Sarasota Area

Command will leverage more than $550,000 to help struggling families

in Sarasota County pay their utility bills. These are just a few of the

cost savings and revenue boosts expected from $268,755 in grants

recently awarded by Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice. For

a complete listing of grants, please visit www.gulfcoastcf.org.

THE PLAYERS THEATRE AND SENIOR FRIENDSHIP CENTERS

RECEIVE SELBY FOUNDATION GRANTS

The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation awarded The Players

Theatre $38,500 to conduct renovations to the theatre including new

carpeting and lighting system. “This grant will assist us to improve the

experience of our patrons while attending performances this season

and into the future,” said Michelle Bianchi Pingel, Managing Director

of The Players Theatre. “It is the generosity of donors like the Selby

Foundation that keep our community theater alive. We are most

appreciative.” www.theplayers.org

The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation awarded Senior

Friendship Centers a $47,700 grant for renovations for the Brother

William Geenen Living Room in Sarasota. Funds will be used for reno-

vating bathrooms in the adult day services and Caregiver Resource

Center. The Brother William Geenen Living Room recently celebrated

its 30th anniversary. It was the first building dedicated solely to adult

day services in the nation when it was built, and the first of three

buildings that became Senior Friendship Centers campus in Luke

Wood Park, thought to be the first senior campus in the country.

www.friendshipcenters.org

EASTER SEALS SOUTHWEST FLORIDA RECOGNIZES OUT-

STANDING DONORS AND VOLUNTEERS

Easter Seals Southwest Florida held its annual Donor Recognition

Event honoring more than one hundred donors and volunteers. Ginger

Judge, a longtime Easter Seals Board member and supporter, received

the organizations first-ever Crystal Lily Award in honor of more than 35

years of service. Others recognized included: Robert Vecchione, archi-

tect and principal of Cobrooke Ideas/Architecture/Design who donated

more than $10,000 in pro bono services; Stuart J. Roth, founder of

Center for Faith and Freedom, who gave a $10,000 lead gift for remod-

eling therapy and other service rooms; Drapcynzski Memorial Fund in

honor of Frank Drapsynzski for Children’s Therapy; Ed Cauley, Carole

Hopkins and Ken Braley were Volunteers of the Year; and Roger and

Mary Rex for their regular contributions. www.easterseals-swfl.org

2010 A GREAT YEAR FOR LAKEWOOD RANCH

Lakewood Ranch celebrated its top sales year with close to 250

new home sales. “It’s clear buyers feel confident in the market and the

value here,” said Milt Flinn, President of LWR Communities. “We are

estimating 350 new home sales next year, with 50 furnished models

completed by the end of the first quarter and several new neighbor-

hoods coming on board in 2011.” Eleven new home sales in 2010 came

in over $1 million, with the average sales price of a new home in Lake-

wood Ranch at $452,600. In commercial real estate, Lakewood Ranch

leads the market in its low vacancy rate of just 11 percent, compared

to 13 percent in downtown Sarasota and 22 percent in the rest of the

local market. www.lakewoodranch.com

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION DISTRIBUTES $245,000 TO AGENCIES

The Community Foundation of Sarasota County distributed

$245,000 in Season of Sharing funds to ten human service agencies in

Charlotte, Sarasota and Manatee Counties to enable them to continue

assisting families with emergency needs. This will allow social workers

in the three counties to help hundreds more people with one-time rent

and mortgage payments, utility bills and other critical expenses up to

$1,000 to stabilize their lives and prevent homelessness. The commu-

nity has raised approximately $745,000 towards its goal of $1 million;

however, The Patterson Foundation matching grant of up to $500,000

for every new and increased donation has not yet been reached. To

make a donation, visit www.CFSarasota.org.

NEW COLLEGE OF FLORIDA RANKED #11 ON KIPLINGER’S LIST

Kiplingers Personal Finance ranked New College of Florida #11

on its annual ranking of the “100 Best Values in Public Colleges” for

2011. This year marks the eighth consecutive time that New College

has placed among the nation’s top 20 public colleges overall on the

Kiplinger’s list of schools delivering a stellar education at an afford-

able price. The special report and complete rankings are available in

the February 2011 issue of Kiplingers Personal Finance magazine and

online at www.kiplinger.com/tools/colleges.

GULF COAST DISTRIBUTES $268,755 IN GRANTS

Children First will use its $20,435 grant to install solar heating

systems on existing water heaters at two sites. The organization ex-

pects to save at least $70,000 over the lives of the systems. At the

Charlotte County Habitat ReSale Store in Murdock, a $19,944 Gulf

Coast grant will pay for energy-efficiency improvements expected to

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February 2011