Sarasota Community Acupuncture Offers Valentine's Day Weekend Special

Sarasota Community Acupuncture is celebrating the season of love with a Valentine’s Day weekend special offer. When you schedule an appointment with a friend or loved one on February 12, 13 or 14, each of you will pay only $10 for a complete acupuncture treatment. The offer is valid in both the morning and afternoon time slots at the clinic, now open seven days a week and located at 3615 Webber Street (visit www.sarasotacommunityacupuncture.com for current hours of operation). Chair space is limited, so please call (941) 922-4611 to schedule your appointments.

What is Community Acupuncture?

Community Acupuncture is based on the philosophy that acupuncture therapy needs to be consistent, not expensive, to be effective. Most American acupuncturists see one patient per hour and charge anywhere from $60 to $125 per treatment. Sarasota Community Acupuncture sets itself apart with a unique sliding scale ranging from $15 to $45 per treatment. Acupuncture can be made affordable by treating in a small group setting, using several recliners clustered together in a quiet soothing space.

“Many of our patients tell us that they have tried acupuncture before, but could not continue treatment because it was too expensive,” says co-owner Melonie Burgess, A.P. “We believe acupuncture can really make a difference in people's lives. It's an untapped resource for many of us, and it is not just for people with disposable incomes.” says Burgess. “It just needs to be more available and affordable and that is why we are here.”

To take advantage of Sarasota Community Acupuncture’s Valentine’s Day weekend special or to learn more about Community Acupuncture, please call (941) 922-4611 or visit www.sarasotacommunityacupuncture.com.

About Sarasota Community Acupuncture: Sarasota Community Acupuncture (SCA) is a famly practice committed to cultivating health with the practitioner and the patient in partnership. The mission of SCA is to provide the community with high quality and affordable acupuncture, and to create a treatment space that connects people and builds community. For more information, please visit www.sarasotacommunityacupuncture.com, or call (941) 922-4611 for an appointment at our clinic, located at 3615 Webber Street in Sarasota, Florida.

Ashley's Delivers a Super Deal for The Big Game

Ashley’s Food Delivery, the area’s only multi-restaurant delivery service, is getting ready for the Big Game with a Super Deal for hungry viewers. When you order a minimum of one Chili’s Party Platter for delivery on Super Bowl Sunday, you’ll get $10 off of your total order. That’s prime time savings! 24 hours delivery notice is required for this special. Our Super Suggestions:

- Boneless Buffalo Wings: Breaded chicken breast tossed in spicy wing sauce. Served with cool bleu cheese dressing.

- Big Mouth Bites: Mini beef burgers topped with applewood smoked bacon, American cheese, sautéed onions and ranch dressing on sesame buns. Served with jalapeno-ranch dressing.

- Chili’s Fajita Platter: Fajita-marinated steak or chicken grilled to perfection with grilled onions, bell peppers, poblanos and cilantro leaves. Ready to serve with flour tortillas, sour cream, house-made guacamole, cheese and house-made pico de gallo.

- Triple Dipper Platter: Pick 3 of your favorites, served with dipping sauce.

Spending a quiet evening at home for the game? Get your football fan’s favorite meal delivered right to the couch. Full delivery menus for all of Ashley’s restaurant partners are available on the Ashley’s Food Delivery website, www.AshleysFood.com. Delivery orders can be placed online, or with a customer service representative at 953-FOOD (953-3663).

About Ashley’s Food Delivery: The area’s only multi-restaurant delivery service, Ashley’s Food Delivery partners with over 25 restaurants in Sarasota to deliver everything from home-cooked, comfort food to elegant, gourmet dining. Ashley’s Food offers residential & corporate meal delivery, drop-off catering services and gift basket delivery. The service is open for lunch delivery Monday through Friday (Sarasota only) and dinner delivery every day. For more information, call 953-FOOD or visit www.AshleysFood.com.

Suncoast Parkinson Symposium Tops 600

January 26, 2011 (Sarasota, FL) — Sarasota’s medical community was host to the Nation’s largest Medical Conference for Parkinson Disease on Saturday, January 22. The 2011 Annual Suncoast Parkinson Symposium, held at Sarasota Memorial’s Institute for Advanced Medicine, brought together nearly 700 professionals, patients, and caregivers. The country’s top physicians and researchers spent the morning focusing on the latest research and theories regarding causes, innovative therapies, and medical treatments for Parkinson Disease. Parkinson Disease is a degenerative brain condition that affects millions nationally, with 15,000 patients and caregivers residing in the tri-county area. Many important issues were focused upon such as risk factors, environmental vs. genetic factors, exercise, breakthrough research, cutting edge treatments, and embryonic stem cell research.

Special guest Debi Brooks, co-founder of the Michael J. Fox Foundation, discussed the Fox Foundation’s multi-million dollar clinical research program and the process the group takes in conducting trials that they hope will lead to a cure. Other internationally-recognized researchers who spoke included Dr. Jay L. Alberts, PhD of the Cleveland Clinic, Dr. William Langtson, MD, founder of The Parkinson’s Institute in Califormia, and Dr. Ole Isacson, MD of Harvard Medical School.

The presentations were organized by Neuro Challenge Foundation medical advisor Dr. Dean Sutherland, MD, PhD. Fifty area physicians participated in professional education opportunities throughout the weekend along with dozens of nurses and other allied health professionals. During her introductory comments, Doreen Sutherland, President and Founder of Neuro Challenge Foundation, stated, “Today you will learn that knowledge IS power and exercise IS medicine.” And the nearly 700 guests certainly did.

For more information about programs and services offered by Neuro Challenge Foundation, log onto www.neurochallenge.org or call 941-926-6413.

About Neuro Challenge Foundation: The Neuro Challenge Foundation (NCF) is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of people with Parkinson Disease and their caregivers through service, education and research. Their flagship program, Parkinson Partners, provides one on one advice for patients. Call 941-926-6413 to enroll, free of charge. NCF funds programs and activities that promise to ease the burden of Parkinson Disease through patient-centered professional education, community forums and scientific and clinical research. Patients, caregivers and nationally recognized scientific experts advise us and lead the way as we invest in the science and services that will lead to a cure. For more information, please call (888) 623-4483 or visit www.neurochallenge.org.

Cox and Showhouse Featured in Sunday H-T

Cameron Cox of Cameron Cox Interiors was featured in today's Sarasota Herald-Tribune for her work in the 2011 Designer Showhouse. Kangaroo is thrilled to coordinate graphic and web design for Cameron, who specializes in residential, nautical, and commercial interior design. The following is an excerpt from the article, found in entirety here:

(photo by Thomas Bender, Sarasota Herald-Tribune)

Cameron Cox dressed her fisherman's bedroom with a narrow Murphy bed and draped windows in fishnet. The hanging light fixture is a repurposed handblown clear glass jug. "I had the best time with this space," said Cox, "scouring antique shops for just the touches that would reference the period. The room is masculine with early 1900s furniture, but I think it's charming and it looks like a boat captain or fisherman would be right at home here."

Sarasota Architectural Foundation to Host Sarasota School of Architecture Discussion

Despite controversy over the recent razing of several Sarasota School of Architecture buildings, one structure has emerged that pays homage to the doctrine. The Suncoast Polytechnical School on Beneva Road in Sarasota, the first phase of the 72-acre Sarasota Technical Center campus, has caught the attention of architecture critics and aficionados statewide. This Thursday, the Sarasota Architectural Foundation will host Principal Ken Dean and Associate Principal Kasey Teimouri, architects from the acclaimed educational facility design firm Schenkel Shultz in Tampa, Florida, as they discuss the influence of the Sarasota School of Architecture on the high school’s design.

Sarasota School of Architecture buildings, constructed predominantly in the 1940’s and 50’s, are characterized by attention to light, climate and topography. Suncoast Polytechnical High School takes advantage of maximum natural light in all instructional and circulation spaces, and includes energy-efficient mechanical and lighting systems with daylight sensors, eco-friendly materials and the preservation of mature trees on site. Educational experts say the design is beneficial for the students as well as the environment. The school is organized using the small learning communities concept, introducing flexible and easily adaptable spaces which accommodate both group and individual learning styles. The building is a technology-rich environment that is both wired and wireless for students, faculty and visitors.

The architects will discuss the design of Suncoast Polytechnical High School (SPHS) at the Sarasota Architectural Foundation’s Annual Meeting on Thursday, January 27 at 5:30 pm. The meeting takes place at SPHS at 4650 Beneva Road at Proctor, Sarasota, Florida. The event is free for members and a donation of $5 is requested for students and non-members. RSVP's are appreciated to 941.365.4723.

About Sarasota Architectural Foundation: The mission of the Sarasota Architectural Foundation (SAF) is to promote preservation and awareness of Sarasota's architecture and design, beginning with the Sarasota School of Architecture and beyond. SAF was formed to focus on the ongoing preservation and celebration of the Sarasota School structures, and the promotion of architectural excellence within the Sarasota community. For more information, please visit www.sarasotaarchitecturalfoundation.org or call 941.365.4723.

Fashionable Fundraiser for Parkinson Disease

A night of high fashion from international and local boutique lines is coming to Sarasota to raise much-needed funds for Parkinson Disease programs on the Suncoast. Sarasota-based Neuro Challenge Foundation will host the 2nd annual Cause 4 Fashion gala event at Michael’s on East on March 3rd from 5:30 to 8:30. What makes this fashion show special? All of the models in the show will be Parkinson patients or their caregivers, family members or friends.

Taking the stage in an evening fashion show seems like a major feat for patients who cope with muscle freezing and other motor difficulties. However, according to Neuro Challenge Medical Advisor Dr. Dean Sutherland, MD, PhD, new management of the disease helps patients overcome common stereotypes.

"The models can do it because of the level of treatment that's now available," says neurologist Dean Sutherland, MD, PhD. "Anyone will be able to see for themselves the amazing advancements helping these patients and available to others." Proceeds from Cause 4 Fashion will facilitate Parkinson Disease programs and research in Sarasota & Manatee counties.

Parkinson Disease affects more residents than some might realize. An estimated 15,000 patients and caregivers are coping with Parkinson Disease in Sarasota and Manatee Counties alone. Neuro Challenge Foundation is the only local community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of people with Parkinson Disease and their caregivers through service, education and research. Neuro Challenge offers one-on-one advice with skilled professionals, workshops, seminars and the largest and most respected Annual Parkinson Disease Symposium in Florida.

The Cause 4 Fashion event features spring lines from Dreamweaver Planet, Exit Art, Lilly Pulitzer, Peace of Cloth, Tommy Bahama and T. Georgiano's. The evening’s hosts are Sarasota personalities Cliff Roles and Heidi Godman, with special guest appearances from New York fashion designer Alex Garfield, Sarasota Mayor Kelly Kirschner, Michael's on East's Michael Klauber, and entertainment from the Artist Series' own Lee Dougherty Ross.

Tickets for the evening are $95 and can be purchased by calling Neuro Challenge at (941) 926-6413. A cocktail hour and stellar silent auction precede a five star meal and best-of-boutiques fashion show. Auction items include a Manhattan fashion weekend, private wine tasting, weekend getaways, vintage jewelry treasures, fabulous restaurant meals, entertainment tickets, gift baskets, golf outings, clothing from Lilla P, Robert Graham, and more. The event is sponsored by The Amicus Foundation, Negroski, Sutherland & Hanes Neurology, Medtronic, Peace of Cloth, Whole Foods Market, Scene Magazine and generous patrons. Sponsorships are still available; call (941) 685-7876 for details.

About Neuro Challenge Foundation: The Neuro Challenge Foundation (NCF) is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of people with Parkinson Disease and their caregivers through service, education and research. NCF funds programs and activities that promise to ease the burden of Parkinson Disease through patient-centered professional education, community forums and scientific and clinical research. Patients, caregivers and nationally recognized scientific experts advise us and lead the way as we invest in the science and services that will lead to a cure. For more information, please call (888) 623-4483 or visit www.neurochallenge.org.

An Evening with Healthy Start

On Thursday, January 20th, from 5:30 – 8:00 p.m., Sarasota Architectural Salvage will host its 2nd Annual “An Evening with Healthy Start” Fundraiser to benefit The Healthy Start Coalition of Sarasota County. The event will be emceed by Sarasota Mayor Kelly Kirschner, and will feature live music by local band tropical-pop band, The Equines.

The 2nd Annual “An Evening with Healthy Start” promises to be even better than the first. Hosted by Sarasota Architectural Salvage, a well-known downtown re-sale store for historic and eclectic home furnishings and accents, this distinctive backdrop provides for one of the most unique and fun fundraising events of the season.

Guests will be treated to light fare provided by local restaurants, including Mattison’s City Grill, Nancy’s Bar-b-q, Owen’s Fish Camp, and more. This event will also feature a raffle and silent auction, featuring an exquisite pendant necklace from world-famous Jewelry Designer, Ned Bowman, of Bowman Originals (located at 1400 State Street in Downtown Sarasota).

Tickets are $15 in advance, and $20 at the door, and include two beverage tickets and a coupon for Sarasota Architectural Salvage. Patron sponsorships are available for $50, and include recognition in the Event Program and unlimited beverages. To purchase tickets, call (941) 373-7070, or visit www.SarasotaSalvage.com.

The Healthy Start Coalition of Sarasota County is a non-profit, 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of pregnant women, infants, and young children in the community. Healthy Start coordinates a variety of specialized programs to serve high-risk groups and address specific risk factors that contribute to fetal death, prematurity, low birth weight, and infant death. For more information, please call (941) 373-7070 or visit www.healthystartsarasota.org.

LYF Bags to Launch at 2011 Surf Expo

A new must-have spring accessory is making its debut at the 2011 Surf Expo in Orlando this week. LYF Bags and Accessories will present their line of military-inspired beach backpacks and messenger bags at the three-day trade show, expected to attract tens of thousands of buyers and retailers in the surf, skate, swim, watersports and beach fashion industry.

Each LYF backpack and messenger bag features one-of-a-kind fabric placement, handcrafted embellishment, and unique personality. Currently available in six styles, LYF Bags can be used for everything from a beach day to an overnight trip, from a picnic to a working lunch, from a diaper bag to a college backpack.

“Putting our hard work and heart and soul in front of this kind of audience is such an incredible opportunity,” says Nicky Mayforth, who received the first handmade LYF Bag from Jenna DiLorenzo five years ago when her first daughter was born. The two have been dreaming of launching the line ever since. “We feel that the Expo will allow us to connect with the buyers who will place these bags in the right hands.” Mayforth and DiLorenzo will also be introducing their line of custom-made lightweight beach throws, designed to be used as beach blankets, scarves or sarongs.

For more information: LYF Bags and Accessories will exhibit their line of handcrafted backpacks, messenger bags and beach throws at booth #1457 at the 2011 Surf Expo, held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida. Please call (941) 914-2306, or visit www.loveyourLYF.com for details.

About LYF Bags and Accessories: Each LYF is military tough, beach chic, completely versatile and completely you. LYF Bags provide the right mix of rugged sophistication to accompany the discerning urban fashionista, the mom on the go, and the surfer girl with that bohemian vibe and gypsy soul. Your life is uniquely you. Your LYF is simply an extension of who you are.For more information, please call (941) 914-2306, or visit www.loveyourLYF.com.

Cameron Cox Interiors Featured in STYLE

One of Kangaroo's newest (and most fun!) clients is Sarasota's Cameron Cox, an interior designer in our community for almost thirty years. We are so pleased to share with you yesterday's Style Magazine feature on this north Sarasota Bay home, with spaces and views scripted by Cox throughout. She is truly a Sarasota icon and we are proud to share her work with you! Much more to come!

Largest US Parkinson Conference Comes to SRQ

A major coup for Sarasota: the nation's largest medical conference on Parkinson disease is coming to town January 22, 2011. Experts from across the country will share the latest, cutting-edge treatment for this degenerative brain condition that affects millions nationally and 15,000 in the Sarasota-Bradenton area.

Six hundred people are expected to attend the one-day symposium, which features leading physicians and researchers from Harvard, Cleveland Clinic, The Parkinson's Institute, The Neuroregeneration Institute and Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Experts will focus on the latest research in stem cells, exercise, medical and surgical treatments for Parkinson Disease and more.

It happens at Sarasota Memorial Hospital's Institute for Advanced Medicine on Rand Boulevard, and it's all thanks to the on-going important collaboration between Neuro Challenge Foundation and Sarasota Memorial Health Care System, as well as grants from Teva Neuroscience, Harry Sudakoff Foundation and Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, Inc. The internationally-recognized researchers who'll be speaking include:

· J. William Langston, M.D., Founder, CEO and Scientific Director of The Parkinson's Institute in Sunnyvale, Cal. Dr. Langston gained international attention in 1982 for discovering a link between synthetic heroin and the sudden onset of Parkinson's disease in several local drug addicts. With over 250 publications, including "The Frozen Addicts," Dr. Langston continues to forge ahead as an advocate for discovering ways to slow or halt the progress of PD.

· Jay L. Alberts, Ph.D., Assistant Professor at Cleveland Clinic in the Department of Biomedical Engineering & Center for Neurological Restoration in Cleveland, Ohio. Each year, Dr. Alberts leads the "Pedaling for Parkinson's" group on a 500-mile journey across Iowa to raise funds for PD research. Recently, he was nationally recognized for research on tandem bicycling and its effects on Parkinson patients.

· Ole Isacson, M.D., Professor of Neurology at Harvard University and Director of The Neuroregeneration Institute at McLean Hospital in Boston. With over 200 publications and three books, Dr. Isacson has pioneered several lines of research, including the implantation of stem cells to reverse the effects of PD.

SMH physicians, Dean P. Sutherland, M.D., Ph.D. and James Schumacher, M.D. will also present. In addition, a Q & A panel discussion will follow, moderated by TV journalist Heidi Godman.

What: 2011 Suncoast Parkinson Disease Symposium

When: 8:00 am to 12:30 pm on January 22, 2011

Where: SMH's Institute for Advanced Medicine, 5880 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34238

Registration: Log onto www.neurochallenge.org or call 941-917-7777

Cost:$25 per person, however scholarships are available upon request

CE Credits: 3.0 Free Contining Ed. Credits for physicians, nurses, PT, OT and Speech

The Neuro Challenge Foundation Mission is to enhance the quality of life for people living with Parkinson Disease through education, outreach and research. Their flagship program, Parkinson Partners, provides one on one advice for patients. Call 941-926-6413 to enroll, free of charge.

Parkinson Disease is a chronic, degenerative neurological disorder that affects one in 100 people over the age of 60. While the average age of onset is 62, disease onset starts by age 40 in an estimated five to 10 percent of patients, and people as young as 30 can also be affected. There is no readily-available objective test, or biomarker, for Parkinson Disease, so the rate of misdiagnosis can be relatively high, especially when the diagnosis is made by a non-specialist. Estimates of the number of people living with the disease vary, but recent research indicates that at least one million people in the U.S., and six million world-wide, have Parkinson Disease.