The Finer Places, Inc.(TFP) has worked for over three decades representing non-profit organizations, entertainers and small businesses. TFP provides public relations, marketing and development services to small non-profits with little or no staffing, assisting them in creating awareness and in securing funds for their programs through grant writing and production of concerts and special events. Clients include The Palmetto Youth Center, The Sarasota POPS Orchestra, The Sarasota Choral Society, Defeat Diabetes Foundation and many others. We also give back to the community by volunteering for organizations such as the Mayors Project for Veterans and Military Families and The Mayors Feed the Hungry Program and the League of Women Voters.  We secured a grant on a volunteer basis for the State League of Women Voters - the first grant they have ever received.  As a result President, Judy Dean, was invited to speak before the 2006 Legislative Seminar in Tallahassee in March of 2006.

Over the years TFP has generated millions of dollars through grants and fund raising activities for these and many other worthy charitable organizations. In June of 2006 TFP produced a highly successful International Event focusing on cultural exchange and sharing global music! The event included the launch of a U.S. Tour by The Congo Choir!  And in December of 2008, she developed and produced The Florida Orange Festival. 

Music has always been a great love of Ms. Dean and POPS Extras! was established to not only create awareness for local talent, but also to provide a platform for a wide variety of  talented musicians and entertainers in exciting and historic venues - bringing great music to others while supporting local charitable causes.

Gary Reinstrom, Artistic & Music Director

Gary Reinstrom is the co-founder of both POPS Extras! and the Jacobites Pipe & Drum Band.  He is the Pipe Major for the Jacobites and has been involved in the music community in Southwest Florida for decades, performing with the Florida West Coast Symphony, The Sarasota POPS Orchestra (where he also served as President of the Board for 3 years), the Sarasota Concert Band, and many other local groups.

He has served as Pipe Instructor at Riverview High School, and is an enthusiastic, well-respected and talented musician with contacts throughout Southwest Florida - churches, schools, community organizations and other performing arts groups.

Together Gary and Judy Dean have created collaborations and partnerships with performing arts groups, many local churches and schools, and continue their efforts to facilitate partnerships in our community.