Nation's Largest Parkinson Symposium Reaches Capacity in Sarasota Saturday

The largest Parkinson Disease (PD) symposium in the nation returned to Sarasota on Saturday. Almost 1,000 patients, caregivers and physicians filled Sarasota Memorial's Institute for Advanced Medicine and overflowed to two satellite locations, each equipped with live streaming footage of the conference. The Suncoast Parkinson Disease Symposium, now in its 15th year, was hosted by Neuro Challenge Foundation (NCF) in partnership with Sarasota Memorial Health Care System, Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, and Sarasota Magazine.

Opening remarks were given by Suncoast health journalist Heidi Godman, NCF Executive Director Judith Bell and Medical Director Dr. Dean Sutherland, Sarasota Memorial Hospital COO David Verinder, Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation CEO Alex Quarles (pictured above addressing crowd, photo by Cliff Roles), and Sarasota Magazine group publisher Kelley Lavin.

Dr. Michael Okun, Medical Director of the National Parkinson Foundation (NPF) and neurologist for Mohammed Ali, presented a model of "patient-centric" care that allows an interdisciplinary approach to Parkinson's, prioritizing the individual needs of each patient. "What Neuro Challenge is doing here is absolutely transformational," said Okun, in reference to the patient-centric qualified referral network Parkinson's Partners.

Dr. Cynthia Fox, co-founder of the headline-making Big and Loud Voice Therapy and a Research Associate at the National Center for Voice and Speech, invited the capacity crowd to stand, stretch, and speak loudly. This set the tone for her presentation of the Lee Silverman Voice Therapy system, which incorporates voice and body exercise as integral pieces of the Parkinson treatment, tantamount and complimentary to neurological and pharmacological modalities.

Dr. James Schumacher, Sarasota Memorial Hospital neurosurgeon led the audience through the processes of deep brain stimulation, neurotransplantation, and dopamine cell replacement. He then talked about the groundbreaking science of creating dopamine cells from one's own skin cells.

Dr. Dean Sutherland, NCF Medical Director and founder of the Southeastern Center for Parkinson Disease, presented an overview of current scientific theory about the causes, risk factors, and methods for diagnosis of Parkinson Disease.

Heidi Godman then facilitated a panel discussion and Q & A with the speakers. Topics discussed included causes for dyskinesia, deep brain stimulation for older patients, specific medication and amino acid efficacy, acupuncture for Parkinson treatment, and physical and behavioral tasks that can release dopamine.

"I especially enjoyed Dr. Okun's information about Parkinson patients and hospitalization; I am about to have surgery, and will definitely be taking this knowledge with me," said Sarasota's Linda Hatfield, diagnosed with Parkinson Disease in 2001. "Like last year's symposium, this extremely informational. Just excellent."

It is estimated that as many as 1.5 million people in the United States have PD. In Southwest Florida, it is projected that approximately 9,000 people have PD and another 5-10,000 are directly affected as professional or family caregivers. The Annual Suncoast Parkinson Symposium is held annually in Sarasota, Florida. For more information, please visit www.neurochallenge.org, or call (941) 926-6413.

About Neuro Challenge Foundation: Neuro Challenge Foundation is dedicated to the fight against Parkinson Disease (PD) in Southwest Florida through service, education and research. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that offers online, in person and phone recommendations about local PD resources. A free resource guide is available online. Printed guides can be ordered online, viewed in the January 2012 issue of Sarasota Magazine or picked up at any Sarasota YMCA or HealthPlex location. 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.

Cause 4 Fashion in One Month

A night of high fashion is returning to Sarasota to raise much-needed funds for Parkinson Disease programs on the Suncoast. Sarasota-based Neuro Challenge Foundation will host the 3rd annual Cause 4 Fashion gala event at Michael’s on East on March 1st from 6:00 to 9:00. Last year’s event received a “Standing O” from Sarasota’s Observer Group as a Standout Event of the year. All of the models in the show will be Parkinson patients or their caregivers, family members or friends. Proceeds benefit Parkinson Disease programs and research in Sarasota & Manatee counties.

An estimated 15,000 people 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, co-sponsored by the Sarasota Memorial Health Care System.

The Cause 4 Fashion event features spring lines from Dreamweaver Planet, Exit Art, Lafayette 148, Lilla P, Lilly Pulitzer, Peace of Cloth, Robert Graham, T. Georgiano’s, and Tommy Bahama. The evening’s hosts are Sarasota personalities Cliff Roles and Heidi Godman, with special guest appearances from New York fashion designer Alex Garfield, Mayor Suzanne Atwell, Michael's on East's own Michael Klauber, and performances from Circus Sarasota. The event is being chaired by Dr. and Mrs. David Napoliello and by David Verinder, COO of Sarasota Memorial Hospital, and his wife Monica.

Tickets for the evening are $95 and can be purchased by calling Neuro Challenge at (941) 926-6413 or visiting www.neurochallenge.org. A cocktail hour and stellar shopping opportunity precede a five star meal and best-of-boutiques fashion show. A “bucket list” live auction during the show includes a private wine tasting with Michael Klauber, a custom portrait session from renowned Sarasota artist Gale Fulton Ross, a VIP package to the Sarasota Film Festival, and more. The event is presented by Amicus Foundation, Larry and Nola Heitbrink and Richard and Gloria Stevens, as well as and generous sponsors, patrons and community partners. Sponsorship is still available. Call 926-6413 for details.

About Neuro Challenge Foundation: Neuro Challenge Foundation is dedicated to the fight against Parkinson Disease in Southwest Florida through service, education and research. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to serving you through online, in person and phone recommendations about local PD resources. We train and recommend the best Parkinson Disease professionals and support research that will lead to a cure. A free resource guide is available online. Printed guides can be ordered online, viewed in the January issue of Sarasota Magazine or picked up at any Sarasota YMCA or HealthPlex location.

Nation's Largest Parkinson Symposium Returns to Sarasota

The largest Parkinson Disease symposium in North America is again coming to Sarasota on February 4, 2012. The event is open to patients, caregivers and physicians, and features physician lecturers from around the world. Almost a thousand people are expected to attend.

The Suncoast Parkinson Disease Symposium is hosted by Neuro Challenge Foundation in partnership with Sarasota Memorial Health Care System.

Distinguished speakers will include world-famous drug inventor Dr. Moussa Youdim, who is coming from Israel to speak about the popular drug rasagiline (Azilect); Dr. Cynthia Fox, co-founder of the headline-making Big and Loud voice therapy and a Research Associate at the National Center for Voice and Speech in Denver, CO; Dr. James M. Schumacher, Neurosurgeon at Sarasota Memorial Hospital and Research Associate, Neuroregeneration Institute, Harvard Medical School.; and Dean P. Sutherland, MD, PhD, Founder, Southeastern Center for Parkinson Disease, Sarasota, FL.

“Our annual symposium provides an interactive venue for the PD community to come together and discuss the latest global developments in Parkinson’s Disease care, as well as to meet and talk with others affected by PD,” says Doreen Sutherland, President and CEO of Neuro Challenge.

It is estimated that as many as 1.5 million people in the United States have PD. In Southwest Florida, it is projected that approximately 9,000 people have PD and another 5-10,000 are directly affected as professional or family caregivers.

Cost to attend is $25 and includes continental breakfast. Scholarships are available. Valet parking and hotels located conveniently nearby. Registration is required for the event and seating is limited. For more information please visit http://www.neurochallenge.org/neu/events/symposium-2012/ or call the Sarasota Memorial Healthline at 941-917-7777.

About Neuro Challenge Foundation: Neuro Challenge Foundation is dedicated to the fight against Parkinson Disease in Southwest Florida through service, education and research. We are a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to serving you through online, in person and phone recommendations about local PD resources. We receive no compensation for our advisor’s recommendations. We train and recommend the best Parkinson Disease professionals and support research that will lead to a cure. A free resource guide is available online. Printed guides can be ordered online, viewed in the January issue of Sarasota Magazine or picked up at any Sarasota YMCA or HealthPlex location.

An Evening for Healthy Start

On Thursday, January 26th, from 6 to 9 pm, Sarasota Architectural Salvage will host the 3rd Annual “An Evening for Healthy Start” Fundraiser to benefit The Healthy Start Coalition of Sarasota County. The event will be emceed by former Sarasota Mayor Kelly Kirschner, and will feature live music by local Latin, Caribbean, Funk and Motown dance music band, Big Night Out.

The event comes at a critical time in the Healthy Start Coalition’s fiscal year, when funding for critical programs threatens to expire. This year’s event has the potential to raise more money for Sarasota’s pregnant women, infants and young children than in previous years, due to the generosity of several local business members and individuals, including those from the fields of obstetrics, perinatology, midwifery and pediatrics.

Sarasota Architectural Salvage paints an eclectic and distinctive backdrop for “An Evening for Healthy Start,” making it one of the most unique fundraising events of the season. Guests will be treated to light fare provided by local restaurants, including Nancy’s BBQ, Caragiulo’s, Nellie’s Deli, Carrs Corner Café, The Lollicake Queen, Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, Vin Cella and Local Coffee and Tea. The event will also feature a raffle and silent auction, featuring an exquisite pendant necklace from world-famous jewelry designer Ned Bowman of Bowman Originals in Sarasota.

Tickets are $20 in advance and $30 at the door, and include two beverage tickets and a coupon for Sarasota Architectural Salvage. 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.

Pure Barre Celebrates with Grand Opening Party

Pure Barre, the workout that is sweeping the nation with its ballet barre centered technique, is hosting a grand opening celebration on November 11th in their new Sarasota studio. The party will feature raffles, special offers, cocktails, and an introduction of Pure Barre’s winter line, featuring styles from their newest sales partner, Lululemon Athletica.

Founded ten years ago by dancer and fitness guru Carrie Rezabek, Pure Barre is a total body workout that lifts the seat, tones the thighs and burns fat in record-breaking time. The techinque does not involve high impact movements such as bouncing or jumping, keeping the joints protected. Utilizing the ballet barre to perform small isometric movements set to fantastic music, Pure Barre is reputed to be the fastest, most effective, yet safest way to change your body. Students see results in an average of just 7 to 10 classes.

"Since opening the doors to Pure Barre Sarasota on June 20th, we have been excited and overwhelmed by the positive response from the Sarasota community!” says Melissa DeMore, who owns the franchise with Sara Ferguson. “It brings a renewed sense of encouragement to watch each of our clients respond so quickly to this unique and challenging workout. I love to see the energy and sense of empowerment on each of their faces after completing a class. The workout and results speak for themselves!"

Now, Pure Barre offers clients and the community a fitness boutique as well. In addition to the popular styles of Lululemon Athletica, Pure Barre also carries activewear from Splits 59, Beyond Yoga, NaLa Seattle, Bella Luxx, and more. These lines were selected not only for their top-of-the-line quality and supportive fabrics, but for their attention to style, which can take the Pure Barre athlete from working out to lunching with friends.

Pure Barre Sarasota is located in the Paradise Plaza shopping center. The grand opening event is November 11th from 6 to 9 and is open to the public. For more information, current scheduling and pricing options, please visit www.purebarre.com, or email sarasota@purebarre.com.

Local Businesses Leading Electric Vehicle Charge

With the help of EcoTechnologies, Inc., Florida's leading renewable energy and energy conservation integrator, a handful of forward-thinking businesses and municipalities are leading the charge to bring electric vehicles to the Suncoast. By installing charging stations in their parking lots, businesses like Hampton Inn & Suites Sarasota/Bradenton-Airport, developed and constructed by Sarasota-based Finergy Development and Firmo Construction, plan to attract more of the zero-emissions vehicles to our community.

EcoTechnologies, Inc. supports businesses committed to this initiative, and has helped many obtain awards for charging equipment through the ChargePoint America Program, whose aim is to install 4600 stations nationwide by month’s end. Owners are responsible for footing the bill for the equipment’s installation and operation costs, but for Eric Collin, Executive Vice President of Finergy Development, the decision made sense.

"This is a logical continuation for us,” says Collin, whose hotel was the first in Sarasota to earn the US Green Building Certification, and the first of its chain to earn a LEED® Silver Certification. “We want to keep our properties on the leading edge of sustainability."

Charging stations like the ones being installed at Hampton Inn & Suites Sarasota/Bradenton-Airport are part of Coloumb's ChargePoint Network, the world’s most advanced and easy to use electric vehicle-charging infrastructure. The charging stations are designed to accommodate electric vehicles (EV’s) as well as plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (visit www.pluginamerica.org/vehicles for a current list of electric vehicles). Today’s plug-in EV’s typically do not require gasoline, but recharge their large on-board batteries with electricity. The typical result is an efficiency of over 100 miles per gallon – a two-fold increase over conventional hybrids.

Those interested in the future of electric vehicles are encouraged to attend the unveiling of the new charging stations at Hampton Inn & Suites Sarasota/Bradenton-Airport, located at 975 University Parkway in Sarasota, on Wednesday, November 2,, 2011. A ribbon-cutting will be held at 4:30pm, during which guests can see the latest electric vehicles plugging in. A reception inside the hotel will follow from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, hosted by the General Manager, Michelle Siese and her team. For more information, please contact Michelle Siese at the Hampton Inn & Suites Sarasota/Bradenton-Airport at (941) 355-8140 ext. 600 or Michelle.Siese@hilton.com or contact Ken Stokes, EcoTechnologies consultant at (813) 789-1262 or Ken@EcoTechnoUSA.com.

About EcoTechnologies, Inc.: EcoTechnologies is Florida's EcoSquad for Solar Power, PhotoVoltiacs, Solar Hot Water Heater, Electric Vehicle Car Charging Stations, Energy Saving Cooling Systems and BioBased Spray Foam Insulation Systems. A full-service, green building and remodeling integrator for Florida's green homes, businesses and institutions, EcoTechnologies includes consulting, design, installation and customer service. EcoTechnologies is located at 2101 47th Street, Sarasota, Florida 34234, (941) 364-5900 and online at www.EcoTechnoUSA.com. INTERVIEWS, MEDIA TOURS, AND ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ARE AVAILABLE FOR NEWS STORIES AT THE CONVENIENCE OF THE PRESS. PLEASE CALL KEN STOKES AT (813) 789-1262.

Cycling Puts New Spin on Parkinson Disease

For the first time ever, a Suncoast event is combining breakthrough research with futuristic fitness to raise money for one of the area’s most urgent causes. Cyclists will take a virtual spin through gorgeous terrain at the YMCA’s high-tech cycling center during the Pedaling For Parkinson’s Cycle-A-Thon. It happens on Saturday, November 5th, 2011, from 8 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the YMCA’s Frank Berlin, Sr. Branch located at 1075 South Euclid Avenue, Sarasota.

Ten teams will participate in the four-hour cycling event, where they’ll hop on top-of-the-line Schwinn bikes in front of a huge video screen in the YMCA’s new cycling center, complete with Blu-Ray technology. Every pedal stroke will raise cash for Neuro Challenge Foundation, which provides services for the 15,000 people on the Suncoast who struggle with Parkinson Disease. The incurable brain condition robs patients of the ability to move, eat and think clearly.

This event comes after breakthrough research revealed that cycling can relieve the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease. Neuro Challenge Foundation is bringing the man who made that discovery to Pedaling for Parkinson’s. Dr. Jay Alberts of the Cleveland Clinic will present his breakthrough and explain how you can apply the finding in your own life. Several other physicians will also present lectures on the latest in Parkinson’s treatment. In addition, the YMCA’s fitness staff is now working with Neuro Challenge Foundation and medical advisor Dr. Dean Sutherland to develop a specialized program for Parkinson’s patients.

Parkinson's disease is a degenerative disorder of the central nervous system. It results from the death of dopamine-containing cells in the substantia nigra, a region of the midbrain; the cause of cell-death is unknown. Early in the course of the disease, the most obvious symptoms are movement-related, including shaking, rigidity, slowness of movement and difficulty with walking and gait. Later, cognitive and behavioral problems may arise, with dementia commonly occurring in the advanced stages of the disease. Other symptoms include sensory, sleep and emotional problems. PD is more common in the elderly with most cases occurring after the age of 50. Parkinson’s experienced national attention when actor Michael J. Fox was diagnosed several years ago.

Neuro Challenge Foundation provides free support services and education to Parkinson patients and their families on the Suncoast. For more information contact Doreen Sutherland at doreen@neurochallenge.org, or call The Sarasota Family YMCA at 941-955-8194.

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.

Florida Celebrates Midwives Week this October

Florida Friends of Midwives is proud to join the American College of Nurse Midwives, theMidwives Association of Florida, and communities statewide in celebrating National Midwifery Week and Florida Licensed Midwives Week during the first week in October.

Midwifery Week is a chance for midwives and the women they serve to reflect on their experiences and midwifery's contributions to women's health care, including attending births and providing well-woman care. Throughout Florida, regional groups of Florida Friends of Midwives are celebrating with awareness events, social gatherings and local Mayor's proclamations.

One such proclamation will be read at the Sarasota City Commission meeting October 3rd. “Midwives make a strong contribution to the health and well-being of mothers and babies through proper care and treatment in all phases of childbirth," says Sarasota Mayor Suzanne Atwell. “I look forward to welcoming all those involved in this important effort.”

Midwives have a long and valued history in Florida. The state first passed legislation to license direct-entry midwives in 1931, and the first Certified Nurse Midwife was licensed in Florida in 1970. Florida’s midwives have continued to tirelessly serve the families of Florida and to ensure the continued availability of safe, evidence-based birthing options for Florida’s families.

Florida Friends of Midwives celebrates midwives in Florida and throughout the world during this special week. For more information about midwifery in Florida, please visit flmidwifery.org.

ABOUT FLORIDA FRIENDS OF MIDWIVES (FFOM): Florida Friends of Midwives (FFOM) is a nonprofit grassroots organization dedicated to promoting the Midwives Model of Care and supporting the practice of midwifery in Florida. Florida Friends of Midwives was formed to support midwives who offer safe, cost-effective, evidence based care to Florida's Families. FFOM members are consumers and birth advocates committed to organizing the community to support midwives and to assure the continued availability of midwifery care in the State of Florida. For more information, please visit flmidwifery.org.

September: Infant Mortality Awareness Month

September is National Infant Mortality Month, but for Orlando midwife Jennie Joseph and her dedicated team, the fight to provide quality prenatal care to all expecting mothers and reduce the high infant mortality rate is a year-round campaign.

“Simply put, our babies are dying!” states Joseph, executive director of Commonsense Childbirth Inc. and the founder of The JJ Way® Maternity Health Care System, a program that successfully demonstrates reduced levels of infant mortality. “People just don’t realize the impact of infant mortality in our communities.” Joseph’s innovative maternal child health (MCH) program is designed to educate the public, community leaders, and elected officials on te need to reduce infant mortality and the practical steps to achieving that goal.

Joseph, who also operates The Birth Place, a multi-site birthing center , women’s health clinic and midwifery training program in Central Florida, remains committed to eliminating one of this country’s saddest and most preventable medical concerns – the high death rate among African American newborns and babies under the age of one. Statistics show that the infant mortality rate among African-Americans continues to be more than twice the rate among White babies and, according to a new report out just last week, babies in the United States have a higher risk of dying during their first month of life than do babies born in 40 other countries[1].

Medical experts agree that the two most prevalent causes of high infant mortality are premature births before the 37th week of pregnancy, and low birth weight. The Florida infant mortality rate has hovered around 8% for all races and 14% for African American women annually[2]. “These fragile babies are actually a result ,” says Joseph. “The cause is the lack of access to quality maternity healthcare as well as a lack of education and support, particularly for disenfranchised women who face multiple obstacles to finding help.”

A 2007 study[3] conducted at The Birth Place, utilizing The JJ Way® Maternity Health Care System, provided 100 participants with education, support and vital prenatal care. As a result, there were only 4 low birth weight babies born overall and no low birth weight babies to the African American or Hispanic women in the study. While national agencies such as Healthy Start and March of Dimes have led the charge by stressing the need to address this serious issue, Joseph believes that increased community awareness is essential to the campaign to eliminate these disparities. To that end, Commonsense Childbirth and The JJ Way® have developed extensive training and certification programs to increase the number of maternity healthcare providers, doulas, childbirth educators and community agencies willing to tackle this problem.

Additional information including a video can be found at http://commonsensechildbirth.org/jj-way.

Jennie Joseph will be speaking at Bentley’s Cafe (805 Donald Ross Road Juno Beach) at 6:30pm on September 23rd. The event is open to the public. Ms. Joseph will also be holding a Doula Training September 24th and 25th at the Palm Beach Marriott. For more details regarding these events or information about Commonsense Childbirth, The Birth Place or The JJ Way, please contact Kathy Bradley at (321) 213-1112 or email kathy.ccsmidwifery@gmail.com.

[1] http://www.myhealthnewsdaily.com/newborn-death-rates-1849/

[2] http://www.marchofdimes.com/peristats/pdflib/999/pds_12_all.pdf

[3] Funded by Winter Park Health Foundation, Evaluated by Health Council of East Central Florida

12th & East Kicks off Third Thursday Party

12th & East Home at the Beach will begin a seasonal series of artist showcases this Thursday, September 15th, from 5pm to 8pm. The event, being dubbed “Party in the Plaza,” will take place at this beachside boutique every third Thursday of the month through May.

This month’s inaugural event will feature local artists Greg Lowman, Dustin Cole, Jessica DellaTorre, Breslyn Reiber, Dani O’Neil with Lola Love, and Heather Howard with Nautical Nonsense. Live art will be performed by Cheeta and live music by Trevor Bystrom. Light fare and wine will be served.

“I have been waiting all summer for this,” says owner and designer Jessica Holmes. “This community is my home. It is an honor to be able to celebrate the artistic talent that abounds here.”

Now located at 5416 Marina Drive, 12th & East Home at the Beach brings their unique vintage modern aesthetic seaside, while continuing to hand-select and update 17th and 18th century antique treasures. This summer the boutique has introduced new lines of women’s clothing, shoes, bags, table linens, serving wares, dish soaps and more to the Anna Maria Island community. To learn more about 12th & East Home at the Beach or any of these fine artists, please call (941) 778-7440 or visit www.12thandEastHome.com.

About 12th & East Home: 12th & East Home at the Beach is a sophisticated home accessories showroom in Holmes Beach, Florida. Designer Jessica Holmes presents an ever-changing collection of vintage-inspired modern accents and expertly selected consigned antiques, establishing a unique and relevant aesthetic for today’s discerning home decorator. The Sarasota collection has expanded to include a more casual, seaside lifestyle. Please call (941) 778-7440 to learn more, or visit us on the web at www.12thandEastHome.com.

Local Businesses Join Healthy Start to Collect Diapers in August

No child should ever wear the same diaper all day. The unfortunate reality is that here in Sarasota County, one in three families in struggles with providing the bare necessities for their babies. With the cost of diapers at more than $100 each month per child, many parents must make the difficult choice between diapers and food. Infants who don’t have a clean diaper are likely to suffer from painful urinary tract infections and other serious complications.

Throughout the month of August, the Healthy Start Coalition of Sarasota County, Inc., a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving the health and well-being of pregnant women, infants, and young children in Sarasota County, is collecting diapers to give to families in need. You can donate unopened packages of diapers (cloth or disposable) and wipes at several convenient locations. Cash donations to purchase diapers will also be accepted at the Healthy Start Coalition office. Healthy Start will also be collecting donations at the Downtown Sarasota Farmer’s Market on Saturday, August 13th.

Drop-off locations include:

• Healthy Start Coalition Office (also accepting cash donations) at 1750 17th Street, Building A
• Healthy Start Program Office, 2nd Floor, Sarasota County Health Department, 2200 Ringling Boulevard, Sarasota
• Birthways Family Birth Center, 4222 McIntosh Lane, Sarasota, FL 34232
• Rosemary Birthing Home, 800 Central Ave. Sarasota
• Media on Main, 1341 Main Street, Downtown Sarasota
• Jackson Hewitt Beneva Office; 5779 Beneva Road, Sarasota
• Jackson Hewitt Venice Office, 545 US HWY 41 Bypass, Venice, FL
• Bippy Diapers, 4911 14th St. W., Ste. 204, Bradenton FL 34207
• Walgreens, 3155 University Pkwy., Sarasota FL 34243
• Walgreens, 3535 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34234
• Walgreens, 1700 N Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota, FL 34234
• Walgreens, 1947 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota, FL 34236
• Walgreens, 3550 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, FL 34237
• Walgreens, 5800 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34233

For more information, please contact Ciera Galbraith, Education and Development Coordinator for The Healthy Start Coalition, 941-373-7070, ext. 303.

Sarasota Architectural Foundation Welcomes Michael Gilkey, Jr. to Present Modern Landscapes

The Sarasota Architectural Foundation is showcasing the work of landscape architects next week by welcoming Sarasota landscape architect Michael Gilkey, Jr., ASLA, to join their acclaimed lecture series. The presentation will be held in the Sarasota Herald-Tribune Community Room on Thursday, May 19, at 5:30 pm.

Michael Gilkey, Jr. is a Florida licensed landscape architect and president of Michael A. Gilkey, Inc. (www.magilkey.com), a landscape architecture, contracting and maintenance studio in Sarasota, Florida. Gilkey specializes in residential design-build landscape architecture in Southwest Florida. He brings a passion for design, horticulture, and conceptual process to his firm and to the community.

“I was honored when the Sarasota Architectural Foundation invited me to speak,” said Gilkey. “They are sharing with our community what Sarasota architecture looks like as a historical imprint, part of a greater context. To be invited to share my perspective is a great compliment.”

During his presentation, Gilkey will introduce his profession explain his design process from an architectural vantage point. He will explore what makes a landscape sustainable, and will showcase the work of his firm and our community while engaging the audience in casual conversation.

Event: Michael Gilkey, Jr. Presents Modern Landscapes, Thursday, May 19, 5:30 pm

Address: 1741 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236

Admission: $15 SAF & AIA members - $25 non members

Reservations: info@sarasotaarchitecturalfoundation.org | 941-364-2199

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 941-364-2199.

About Michael A. Gilkey, Inc.: Michael A. Gilkey, Inc. is a landscape architecture studio in Sarasota, Florida, established in 1981. Through a passion for pure design and personal relationships with architects, contractors and homeowners, Gilkey creates expressions of outdoor space that are direct translations of their clients’ visions. For more information, please visit www.magilkey.com or call (941) 924-0132.

Sarasota Community Acupuncture Offers Free Treatments May 1st

Sarasota Community Acupuncture, along with community acupuncture clinics nationwide, is celebrating International Worker’s Day or ‘May Day’ by offering free acupuncture to all patients on May 1st. Sarasota Community Acupuncture belongs to the Community Acupuncture Network, now in its ninth year of celebrating May Day through offering free treatments.

May Day is a celebration of the international labor movement. It is typically celebrated through street demonstrations and marches by working people and their labor unions throughout most of the world. “The philosophy and mission of Sarasota Community Acupuncture is to make acupuncture affordable for everyone, regardless of economic status,” says Gene Burgess, AP, co-owner of Sarasota Community Acupuncture. “Celebrating the working class is a fitting way to express that to our community.”

Sarasota Community Acupuncture will offer free treatments to all patients on Sunday, May 1st from 3 to 6pm. Recliner space is limited, so please call for an appointment at (941) 922-4611. Sarasota Community Acupuncture is located at 3615 Webber Street. For current clinic hours or to learn more about Community Acupuncture, please call (941) 922-4611 or visit www.sarasotacommunityacupuncture.com.

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.

Sarasota Community Acupuncture 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.

12th and East to Open Beach Shop in May

Just in time for summer, 12th and East Home, Sarasota’s hottest new home accessories boutique, is opening their sister store in Holmes Beach. Located at 5416 Marina Drive, 12th and East at the Beach brings their unique vintage modern aesthetic seaside, while continuing to hand-select and update 17th and 18th century antique treasures.

12th and East at the Beach will introduce an exciting new line of women’s clothing, shoes, bags and kitchen items such as table linens, serving wares, dish soaps and more. To appeal to the Holmes Beach and Anna Maria Island family vacationers, the new shop will also carry select children’s items, such as clothes, beach sandals and handcrafted toys.

12th and East’s flagship store in Sarasota has become well-known for its support of local artists. That passion will be brought to the beach location with local island artist showcases and locally made jewelry. Upcoming events at 12th and East at the Beach include craft classes and cocktail nights featuring local artists and handcrafted product lines. Freshly cut local flowers will be available by the free bunch or stem.

“Holmes Beach and Anna Maria Island are my home. The places and people I love most in the world are here,” says owner and designer Jessica Holmes. “It has been a dream to bring this store to life on these shores.”

Within the year, Holmes envisions the rear of the store as a vintage candy shop with soft serve ice cream and treats to cool down beachgoers. 12th and East at the Beach is scheduled to open in early May. To learn more, please call (941) 447-7373 or visit www.12thandEastHome.com.

About 12th and East Home: 12th and East Home is a sophisticated home accessories showroom anchored in Sarasota, Florida. Designer Jessica Holmes presents an ever-changing collection of vintage-inspired modern accents and expertly selected consigned antiques, establishing a unique and relevant aesthetic for today’s discerning home decorator. Now opening 12th and East at the Beach in Holmes Beach, the collection expands to include a more casual, seaside lifestyle. Please call (941) 447-7373 to learn more, or visit us on the web at www.12thandEastHome.com.

World Renowned Architect Tod Williams Comes to Sarasota March 30

Internationally renowned architect Tod Williams, FAIA, will present his award-winning body of work Wednesday, March 30, at 5:30 pm at the Hyatt Regency Conference Center in Sarasota. This event is presented by the Sarasota Architectural Foundation, theGulf Coast Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, and the University of Florida School of Architecture.

The work of Tod Williams, principal of Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects, has been published extensively both in the United States and overseas, and repeatedly honored by The American Institute of Architects. The firm has received National AIA Awards for a dormitory at Princeton University, the Spiegel Pool House addition, and for two projects in New York City (the Quandt loft and the Go Silk Showroom). In 1997, the firm won a National Honor Award for the Neurosciences Institute, and in 2001 they received two more, for a natatorium at the Cranbrook School and for a house on Long Island. In 2002 they were honored for the American Folk Art Museum, the first new museum built in New York City in over three decades. In the same year the museum also received the Arup World Architecture award for the Best Building in the World.

“We see architecture as an act of profound optimism,” says Williams. “Its foundation lies in believing that it is possible to make places on the earth that can give a sense of grace to life.”

Event: Tod Williams: The Art of Architecture, Wednesday, March 30, 5:30 pm

Address: 1000 Blvd of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236

Admission: $15 SAF & AIA members - $25 non members

Reservations: info@sarasotaarchitecturalfoundation.org | 941-364-2199

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 941-364-2199.

LYF Bags Host Launch Party February 25th

A new line of backpacks and messenger bags is making waves from the Cayman Islands to the Bahamas and across the eastern seaboard, and they’re being handmade right here on the Suncoast. On February 25th, Sarasota will take its first look at the inaugural line of LYF Bags and Accessories at their Launch Party and Trunk Show, being held at Marmalade Salon and Boutique from 7:00-9:00pm.

LYF founders Jenna DiLorenzo and Nicky Mayforth introduced their military-inspired beach bags at the 2011 Surf Expo in Orlando in January, and the response was overwhelming. “We were optimistic, but we had no idea that so many amazing stores would jump at the chance to carry our line,” says Nicky. “It’s been humbling and terribly exciting at the same time.” LYF Bags and Accessories can be seen this spring in boutiques and surf shops in Grand Cayman, Nassau, Hilton Head, Asbury Park, Montauk and many points in between. The hot backpacks and messenger bags will also be right at home in Sarasota at L. Boutique on Pineapple Avenue.

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.

The launch party and trunk show will be held at Marmalade, where Jenna and Nicky began their business partnership almost a decade ago as co-owners of the successful hair salon. Nicky received the first handmade LYF Bag from Jenna DiLorenzo five years ago when her first daughter was born, and the two have been dreaming of launching the line ever since. LYF 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: The LYF Bags and Accessories Launch Party and Trunk Show is being held at Marmalade Salon & Boutique, 1927 Osprey Avenue, Sarasota, on Friday, February 25 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. 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.

12th & East to Host Artists' Reception Feb. 17th

In addition to showcasing amazing antiques and fresh, modern home accessories, 12th and East Home is introducing a collection of hand-selected custom art pieces from four local artists. On Thursday, February 17th, these artists will unveil their spring lines at a reception hosted by Sarasota’s newest home accessories boutique, located at the intersection of 12th Street and East Avenue.

The artists include Sarasota residents Dottie Baker, Marcy Chapman, Brigitta Sultana, and Anna Maria’s Robert Reiber. “Each of these artists brings such a different aesthetic to the shop; yet they each seem to fit perfectly,” says 12th and East Home owner and designer Jessica Holmes. “Together, their work makes quite a stunning collection.”

ABOUT THE ARTISTS:

Dottie Baker has been a bead artist and teacher for the past 15 years. Her passion is bead weaving and her work frequently reflects the Victorian era. “I love the intricacy, attention to detail and the femininity of that period,” says Baker. “I find it truly a gift to earn a living doing what I love!”

Marcy Chapman has been a professional artist for over 30 years. Her work has been internationally published and sold in venues as diverse as street fairs, a New York Art Gallery, Bed Bath and Beyond stores and art auctions held on luxury cruise liners. An expert in watercolor, mixed media and collage, Chapman treats her subject matter in a modern yet realistic style. Series include flowers, landscapes and architecture to more contemporary collections of vintage hardware and industrial influences. “What can be done with the color wheel always amazes me,” says Chapman. “I enjoy following design trends and capturing those that pique my interest in some artistic form.”

Brigitta Sultana worked in New York as a graphic designer for companies such as ABC INC. Televesion, Victoria's Secret Catalogue and Elizabeth Arden. After moving to Sarasota in 2002 and ultimately becoming a freelance designer, Sultana considers her art and her daughter her top priorities. Her work consists of acrylic, collage and encaustic pieces inspired by nature, pattern, color, texture, light, and space.. “I love the feeling of the brush in my hand,” says Sultana. “It drives me to make a mark - MY mark.”

Robert Reiber is a professional artist, art teacher and renowned watercolorist known for his colorful paintings of Florida’s natural landscapes. Commercially, Robert has worked as a product designer and vendor for Beall’s Department Store and is in the collection of other major corporations. In addition to being a professional artist, Robert has dedicated nearly thirty years to the talents of young people, promoting their creativity and abilities as a high school art teacher. “I find abstract art fascinating,” says Reiber. “Until now I have worked primarily with conventional subject matter and traditional medium. But currently I have been exploring electronic technology.”

ABOUT THE RECEPTION:

A reception to introduce four local artists will be held at 12th and East Home, where their work is being displayed and sold. The artists will introduce their spring lines on Thursday, February 17 at 5:30pm. Light refreshments will be served at the home accessories boutique and antiques warehouse, located at 1220 East Avenue North, Sarasota, Florida. For more information about 12th and East Home, please visit their website at www.12thandeasthome.com or call (941) 365-8205.

About 12th and East Home: 12th and East Home is a sophisticated home accessories showroom anchored in Sarasota, Florida. Designers Jessica Holmes and Melissa DeMore present an ever-changing collection of vintage-inspired modern accents and expertly selected consigned antiques, establishing a unique and relevant aesthetic for today’s discerning home decorator. Our showroom opened in November 2010 and is located at 1220 East Avenue North in Sarasota, Florida, or on the web at www.12thandEastHome.com.

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.