BUSINESS OBSERVER

+ USF Sarasota-Manatee appoints director of marketing
Ruth Lando, an experienced journalist, writer and non-profit communications professional, has been named director of communications and marketing for the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee.

The Pittsburgh native is a graduate of Dickinson College and has worked with many organizations, businesses and individuals in the communications and public relations field, most recently on the staff of SCOPE.

“We are very pleased to welcome Ruth Lando to USF Sarasota-Manatee,” said Dr. Arthur Guilford, regional chancellor, in a release. “There couldn’t be a better time in USFSM’s history to focus on sharing our exciting vision for the future. Ruth is the perfect person to do the job.”

+ Premier Sotheby’s adds two sales associates
Judy Green, president and CEO of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty has announced that Brian and Kathleen Maher have joined the firm’s downtown Sarasota office at the Plaza at Five Points as sales associates.

The Buffalo, N.Y., natives have lived in Sarasota since 2004 and have been selling real estate for seven years.

Brian Maher holds a bachelor’s degree in business from Niagara University, and Kathleen Maher holds a bachelor’s degree in history and political science from D’Youville College in Buffalo.

+ Local chef recognized for creative website
Marie Poulin, owner of Sarasota Personal Chef, was recently recognized by the U.S Personal Chef Association for member website of the year at the organization’s annual conference in Washington.
The website, sarasotapersonalchef.com, was awarded for its creativity in its visual presentation and photography, ease of use, clear content, useful additional or seasonal material and appeal to potential clients.

+ Nu View Salon welcomes organic skin care esthetician
Kimberley’s Organic Facials and Skin Care has joined the team at Nu View Salon. Kimberley Reibel, a licensed esthetician and massage therapist, offers a menu of services that includes customized facials, rejuvenating back treatments, microcurrent facial toning, vanilla paraffin hand-dipping, gentle waxing, and makeup applications. Services are available for women, men and teens.

+ Michael’s On East expands catering service
Michael’s On East has announced that Cloe Drapkin has joined the events and catering division as catering sales manager.

“Cloe is a true professional who knows our community well — and event production like the back of her hand,” said Phil Mancini, co-proprietor and manager of catering operations in a release. “I know this is a great opportunity for her, our team and, most importantly, our clients and guests.”