Focus Magazine Hot Summer Looks by Focus Magazine of SWFL

MAY/JUN 2014

Katie Linendoll

Beauty of tech

HOT Summer $4.99

LOOKS

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OYSTER PERPETUAL YACHT-MASTER II - EVEROSE ROLESOR - 44 mm

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CONTENT C o llie r - S arasot a - Charlot t e - Lee

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22 Reinvent Yourself 25 Take Charge Now 28 Refresh Your Routine 32 Life 35 Overcome Excuses 36 Da Vinci Machines 41 Reduce College Debt 43 Wealth 45 Home-Based Business 46 Business-First 66 Mix It Up 74 Most Expensive Suit in the World 76 The Future has Arrived 78 Sailing Outside of Time 90 THE BEST 108 Summer Trends 110 TOPSHOP 114 Vasi Callas 120 Healthier, Happier Hair! 122 Urban Mystique 124 Stylist's Expertise

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CONTENT C o l l i e r - Saraso ta - C h a r lo t t e - L e e

Artist Gallery

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Help Prevent Drowning Additions Transform Small Spaces Have a Bountiful Garden Outside Comfort Make a Splash Learning Top Doctors Fresh Chores Made Easy Grande Dames Tea The Pink House "Bejeweled" Tea Health Cook With Love Warm-Weather Pairing Art of Grilling Get Together and Grill

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www.focusofswfl.com Publisher: Focus Magazine of SWFL

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Outdoor Living Physicians Primary Care New Medical Office New Non-Surgical Cosmetic Service Putting Your Identity at Risk FUNraiser Exceeds Expectations SanCap Cares Breaks Record Baby Basics Raises $20,000 Wine Preservation

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Fresh, Fruity Ideas Make Every Day Earth Day

News & Info

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Cover Photography: Eric Lacour Model & Tech Guru: Katie Linendoll

Contributors: Terri Profetto, Mai Yomioto, Ginny Grimsley, Laurel Meny, Julian Bern, Mary Kay Mickiewicz, Sharon Arnold, Susan Bennett, Michael Giragosian, Cecilia Ponzi, Doug Thompson, Diane VanArsdale, Laura Baumgartner, Gen Bell, Rebecca Winship, Allison Stephens, BUT SOU LAI & PAMU, Marisa Honig, Samantha Ramos, Robert Salvatore, Katie Linendoll, Lillian Phipps, Jevgenija Glazunova, Andrea Sculati, Jody Schwartz, Carson Glover & Megan Brewster Focus Magazine of SWFL is published Bimonthly. Articles do not necessarily reflect Focus Magazine of SWFL policy. ÂŠ 2010 Focus Magazine of SWFL, All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or whole without permission is prohibited. Postmaster: Send all remittances and correspondences about subscriptions, undelivered copies and address changes to: Focus Magazine of SWFL at 105 Triple Diamond Blvd, Suite 101, Venice, FL 34275. Editorial, publishing and advertising offices. questions@focusofswfl.com

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Reinvent Yourself

Family Features

Aging gracefully is as much about feeling good on the inside as feeling good on the outside. It's never too late to make changes to reinvent yourself and maximize your mental and physical wellbeing.

Self-improvement is at the top of many women's to-do lists, and doing so can take many forms. According to a recent survey by Post Great Grains Cereal, 73 percent of women said they'd reinvented themselves since they turned 40 by improving their health, finding a new passion or changing their career. Eighty-three percent of survey participants (women, ages 40plus) think the greatest obstacle to reaching their full potential is what they think of themselves, rather than what others think of them. Follow these tips to become your own best friend and take steps toward creating a happier, healthier you. Give proper attention to your diet. A common form of reinvention is improving your eating habits. A balanced diet that promotes a healthy digestive system is an important step in creating a healthier you. Starting each day with a nutritious breakfast is one easy change. Fill your menu with nutrition you can see and wholesome ingredients, such as those in Great Grains Digestive Blend cereals, which have active cultures in addition to whole grains and natural fiber.

Take time to understand yourself. Digging deep to understand your true passions may help reveal a new, more fulfilling path in life, whether it be in the form of new hobbies or even a new career. If you're not sure where to start, begin by making a running list of situations, which capture your attention, such as news articles or engaging conversations. Over time, look for patterns to emerge. Topics or themes rising to the top could signal a special interest you may have overlooked in the past. Nurture valuable relationships. Knowing (and loving) yourself comes first, but having a strong support system is also important for overall wellbeing. While it's important for women to surround themselves with people who will boost them up, that boost doesn't always have to come from another woman. When they need a good laugh, 59 percent of women in the Great Grains survey said they turn to their significant other. Investing time to strengthen your personal connections improves not only the health of those relationships, but the effects of those relationships on your physical health, as well. While charting a new path may seem daunting, focusing on your physical and mental health as you work to introduce change into your life can smooth the way to reinventing a better and brighter you.

www.greatgrains.com 22 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

The mismanagement of money; and lack of a healthy financial education, may leave women feeling lost or fearful. And it is often the case that never having had the opportunity to understanding investments, annuities, stock and bonds or even Certificates of Deposits and how money should work for you can become overwhelming.

NOW TAKE CHARGE

By Lillian Phillips

As the antiquated saying goes, ‘A penny earned is a penny saved.’ Nowadays, a penny is not worth the impression on the metal. The value of a dollar isn’t nearly what it used to be, making matters for women in particular very difficult in their later years if they haven’t planned properly for the days ahead. It is an unfortunate statistic that after retirement, many women outlive their husbands at an alarming rate. Some of these women have the misfortune to find themselves in horrific situations due to lack of financial planning for a host of reasons. The importance of women learning to overcome the fear of money, investing and retirement planning is paramount to their future wellbeing and sound financial security.

Several elements come into play when money is the topic of conversation. For many women, it is a taboo subject. Yet, other women are frantic about not having adequate funds for their future.

The solution for such a circumstance is to secure a financial planner who is experienced, licensed and has your best financial future in mind. The perfect financial planner is not only an advisor, but is also interested, above all, about your needs and your specific goals for your future. He will take into account your current financial standing and will acknowledge the myriad of challenges facing women today – no matter the size of your income. He will use his expertise to help build a lucrative financial portfolio. In addition, the best suited financial advisor should be willing to educate you about your portfolio; he should answer any questions you have, and should handle your money from the ground up, starting from where your finances currently exist tracking the growth with you. Having personal sound insight and respect for your own finances is liberating, for anyone, particularly for a seasoned woman. A financial planner of integrity is eager to listen to and accommodate his clientele, and is well informed. His priority is to the client and should ask you pertinent questions, making sure not to tell you what to do with your money. He is there to offer sound professional advice. Ladies, this is your call to action! It’s never too late to start saving for a rainy day.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 25

Whimsical and Grandiloquent Art Characterized by a unique style and precise designs where the combination of a matte-shine effect on gold, and meticulous craftsmanship make for exceptional jewelry pieces where gold and precious stones come to life. This collection is inspired by the embroidery, fabrics, and colors of Spain’s Golden Age. This touch of color and these brocades can be seen in pieces crafted in yellow or white gold with amethyst presented as grandiloquent and whimsical art. Jewelry with generous volumes and rich decoration where the characteristic and signature Carrera y Carrera matte-gloss effect can be appreciated. Refined and ornate pieces reflect the image-preoccupied culture that existed during this period. For Carrera y Carrera, its link to Spain is essential as a source of inspiration for the development of its collections. The entire creative and development process of each jewelry piece takes place wholly in the Madrid workshop. Each step in the creation of a piece is influenced by the Spanish character that has become one of the fundamental pillars in the evolution of the company’s excellent trajectory throughout its history. Carrera y Carrera endures thanks to a standard of incalculable value – the savoir faire of the nearly 60 jewelers who work in its Madrid workshop, where tradition and the expertise of master goldsmiths are joined together. It is here that each jewelry piece is crafted entirely by hand, giving each one a flawless grandeur.

Refresh Your Routine

Family Features

The changing season evokes a sense of renewal, inside and out, making it the perfect opportunity to rejuvenate you and your surroundings. It’s time to let a little sunlight in and celebrate the warmer months ahead. From trying a bold, new hue with living room accents to taking a yoga class, there are numerous ways to reinvent yourself and your surroundings as you mentally prep for the season ahead — even if the weather is saying otherwise. Use your senses and embrace the unbridled joy that comes with the change of seasons — from the bright pops of color that enliven your home to the comforting floral scents that enhance your mood. Use these simple tips to transition into this exciting and vibrant time of year. Freshen up your home From the drapes that adorn your windows to the artwork that lines the walls — your home is a true reflection of your personality and style. As you break free from last season’s routine, be sure to update your space too. Store away old decor and make room for more upbeat, invigorated gear. Add vibrant pops of color and bright patterns with new accessories for a simple update that feels fresh. 28 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Make it a scent-filled season According to a recent survey conducted by Glade, nearly 90 percent of Americans say that scent has the power to inspire feelings. Experience the powerful effect fragrance can have on everyday life by following these tips: Create everyday indulgences Freshen up your bathroom by adding soaps or room sprays in your favorite fresh scents, like lavender or citrus. Invigorate your senses Liven up your home with fragrance, while awakening your taste buds by trying new recipes with seasonal fruits, vegetables and spices like refreshing mint, zesty grapefruits and sweet cherries.

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Bring in some buds Plant a window garden using your favorite herbs or grab some fresh-cut flowers from your garden for an instant pop of color and a burst of fresh fragrance.

www.glade.com

Wake up your senses Fragrance offers another easy way to invigorate your routine. Choose fragrances that embody the rejuvenation and excitement of the season. The new Glade Limited Edition Spring Collection for example, is a refreshing assortment of five fragrances inspired by the uplifting feelings of the season, such as Lift Off and Let Loose. Make time for hobbies you love As the weather warms up, you will likely find yourself attending more get-togethers, outdoor sporting events and other celebrations with friends and family. As schedules become increasingly hectic, be sure to set aside time for the hobbies you love most. Whether it’s gardening, cooking or reading, scheduling time for the activities you enjoy will help ensure they happen. After all, making “me time” a priority can benefit your overall happiness in more ways than one. Try something new This is a time of new beginnings and what better way to start fresh than by trying something new? Work a new hobby into your routine, such as yoga or painting. Or, attempt something you’ve always been afraid to try. The thrill of accomplishing something you haven’t done or feared doing will leave you feeling empowered. Feel the breeze When the birds are chirping and the tulips are blooming, take advantage of the beautiful, mild weather. Incorporate more outdoor activities into your schedule and find ways to enjoy time outside each day. Some fun outdoor activities include biking to work, hosting a dinner party on your patio or planting a garden. And while you’re at home, be sure open up those windows and welcome the lovely breeze inside. FOCUS of SWFL 2014 29

Changes for a Better

L ife

Family Features

Whether looking to advance their career, financial situation or personal life, taking the steps towards self-improvement is top of mind to many people. In fact, a recent survey polled men and women across the U.S. to see what major life changes they plan to make in the near future. The survey, conducted by Identigene, found that almost half (46 percent) of respondents are planning to make one or more major life changes within the year. But, as with anything that is new and unfamiliar, confronting the situation can often be an intimidating process. “Change is vital to personal development,” said Dr. Janet Taylor, an author and community psychiatrist. “Changing important parts of your life can definitely be a daunting task, and feeling nervous about addressing these changes is normal.” Preparing for a successful change Those that are successful in achieving their goals usually begin with a plan. For people looking to improve their lives, Dr. Taylor provides the following advice:

• Use your resources: When faced with an obstacle, it’s important to understand that you are not alone. In fact, 59 percent of people polled in a recent survey plan to use a friend or family member as a resource for going through a major life change. A close friend or family member can be a great source of emotional support. You may also consider getting help from a professional, such as a therapist or financial advisor. • Put it in writing: Sometimes it’s difficult to know where to start to make change happen. Grab a pen and put your goals in writing with an outline of the action steps required. With a written plan and the support of others, you will feel more confident about making your change happen. “There’s no question that making major life changes can be difficult,” said Dr. Taylor. “However, with a little patience and persistence, accomplishing this change can have such a positive effect for all those involved,”

• Address difficult concerns: According to the survey, one in 10 people plan to address a paternity question within the year. Some of the main motivators for addressing these concerns include finances, child custody, health reasons and peace of mind. Although the reasoning for addressing paternity questions varies from person to person, the benefits of confirming paternity are multifaceted and far reaching. A kit, such as the Identigene DNA Paternity Test, is available at nationwide drug stores and supercenters, and offers 100 percent accurate and confidential results within a few days. 32 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

• Understand your stress: Any nervous feelings are to be expected. In fact, nine out of 10 Americans say they are nervous, on some level, about making their life change. Remember, taking even the smallest of steps toward your goal will help you see progress, overcome nervousness and build confidence.

www.DNAtesting.com

Great people throughout history often fail, quite miserably, before finally reaching their goals, says international business strategist Dan Waldschmidt. “Van Gogh sold only one painting during his lifetime; Winston Churchill lost every public election until becoming prime minister at age 62; Henry Ford went bankrupt five times; Albert Einstein was a terrible student and was expelled from school; Sigmund Freud was booed from a stage,” says Waldschmidt, author of “Edgy Conversations: How Ordinary People Achieve Outrageous Success,”. “Ideas, brilliance, genius – they all mean nothing without the guts, passion and tenacity necessary to make your dream a reality. But often, people fall back on excuses and give up on trying to reach their goals.” Most of us have dreams, and many of us have big ones, but few of us actually see them through, he says. He offers six tricks for jumping off the excuse train and forge the path to your goals. • Avoid the need to blame others for anything. Mean, small-minded people know that they suck. That’s why they are so cranky and eager to point out others’ mistakes. They hope that by causing others to feel inadequate, everyone will forget about how woefully off the mark their own performance is. Don’t blame anyone, for any reason, ever. It’s a bad habit. • Stop working on things that just don’t matter. Not everything needs to be done in place of sleep. If you work for a boss, then you owe them solid time. You can’t cut that out. You can, however, cut out television time, meetings and anything else that gets in the way of achieving your goals. Replace entertainment with activity toward your goal. • Refuse to let yourself wallow in self-doubt. You’re alive to succeed. Stop comparing your current problems to your last 18 failures. They are not the same. You are not the same. Here’s something to remember: Your entire life has been a training ground for you to capture your destiny right now. Why would you doubt that? Stop whining. Go conquer. • Ask yourself, “What can I do better next time?” And then do it next time. If you spend a decade or two earnestly trying to be better, that’s exactly what will happen. The next best thing to doing something amazing is not doing something stupid. So learn from your mistakes and use the lessons to dominate. • Proactively take time to do things that fuel your passion. Exercise is a great example. Living in the moment requires you to live at peak performance. A huge part of mental fitness is physical fitness. A sparring or running partner is a great way to refresh physical competition. Physical activity accelerates mental motivation. • Apologize to yourself and those around you for having a bad attitude. Do this once or twice and you’ll snap out of your funk pretty fast. When you start genuinely apologizing for being a bad influence on those around you, you learn to stop whining and start winning.

Overcome Excuses By Ginny Grimsley

www.EdgyConversations.com FOCUS of SWFL 2014 35

Da Vinci Machines Exhibition in Bradenton

By Megan Brewster

About the Da Vinci Machines Exhibition The exhibit is the life work of three generations of Florentine artisans. They have painstakingly brought to life the creations and concepts devised by the scientist, inventor and artist. The exhibition models are presented in four major themes: Military machines, Flying machines, Nautical & Hydraulic machines as well as devices and inventions illustrating the Principles of Mechanics. The uniquely interactive machines are a popular aspect of each exhibition as visitors can touch and handle these models to gain a first-hand appreciation of how they work. Explanatory notes and illustrative panels with Leonardo's drawings from his codices accompany each model. For additional information, visit www.bradentongulfislands.com/DaVinci

The Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is pleased to announce that the Da Vinci Machines Exhibition, which opened in mid-November at the Bradenton Municipal Auditorium has extended its stay through July 7 due to an overwhelming response from locals and visitors to the area. Originally scheduled to return to its home at the Museum of Leonardo Da Vinci in Florence, Italy in April, the exhibition has attracted more than 15,000 guests, all seeking the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view more than 60 hand-crafted inventions built from Da Vinci’s 500-year-old designs and experience one of just three such exhibitions in the world. “The Bradenton Area has seen overwhelming interest since the exhibition opened in mid-November,” said BACVB executive manager, Debbie Meihls. “Through the exhibit extension, we are thrilled that an even greater audience will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in art history. Unique opportunities such as these help to further establish the Bradenton Area as a leading arts community in the state and beyond.” “We are excited to extend our exhibition stay in Bradenton and expand our reach into the community,” said Mark Rodgers, North America Director and Curator of the exhibition. “We are thrilled to continue to enhance the experience for visitors to the area and provide more of them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover.” 36 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

The Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau promotes tourism to Bradenton, Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key area and the rest of Manatee County, including Palmetto, Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, Cortez, Ellenton, Myakka City, Ft. Hamer, Lakewood Ranch and Parrish, through domestic and international advertising, public relations and marketing efforts. For more information on the Bradenton, Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key area, please visit www.bradentongulfislands.com. About the South Florida Museum South Florida Museum, located at 1005 1st Avenue in Bradenton, is the largest natural and cultural history museum on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The museum interprets the region from the Pleistocene to the present. Highlights include fossil evidence of Florida’s earliest mammals and marine species and the Montague Tallant collection of prehistoric and early postcontact archeological artifacts. Recently opened is the Environmental Wing focusing on Florida’s ecology and bio-diversity in the Pine Uplands and Riverine Galleries.

Photos courtesy of the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitor Bureau

About the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau The Bradenton, Anna Maria Island and Longboat Key area is located on Florida’s gulf coast between St. Petersburg and Sarasota. It is bordered on the north by Tampa Bay, and to the west by the Gulf of Mexico. Easy to get to, but off the beaten path, filled with “Old Florida” ambience brimming with opportunities to experience Florida at its most real and authentic, the Bradenton/Anna Maria Island/Longboat Key area is a part of the state worth discovering and exploring again and again.

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Reduce College Debt Family Features

College is a significant investment and how to pay for it can be a major source of concern for parents and students. However, there are ways to reduce the amount of debt you take on when preparing for higher education. Outstanding student loan debt has now reached $1.2 trillion, according to 2013 estimates from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Yet there are ways to help reduce the amount a family or student has to borrow to fund a college education, if families start early. “It’s never too late for families of college-bound students to reduce costs, if they consider options well before senior year,” said Cynthia Tidwell, CEO and president of Royal Neighbors of America, one of the first women-led life insurers in the U.S. Royal Neighbors has also awarded more than $4 million in college scholarships since 1962. “The key is to think creatively — whether it’s earning college credits in high school, using financial tools that allow for cash savings, or researching scholarship options — don’t mortgage your own financial future or saddle your child with debt that could keep her or him from reaching their dreams,” Tidwell added. Four Ways to Reduce College Costs 1. Earn college credit in high school. Many high schools offer students the opportunity to earn dual high school and college credit, before college, through advanced placement (AP) courses. You can learn more about AP programs online.

2. Consider a community college. Average annual community college tuition and fees are less than half those at public four-year colleges and universities and one-tenth those at private four-year colleges and universities, according to a 2008 report from the National Center of Education Statistics. 3. Learn about college savings financial options. There are many different financial products to help save for college. Under certain circumstances, some colleges and universities lock in tuition for all four years. Even certain life insurance policies offer cash savings options to help pay for expenses such as college tuition, weddings, or starting up a business. Look for permanent or whole life policies with cash value accumulation options. 4. Research scholarships early. Scholarships are available for traditional and non-traditional students, but don’t wait until senior year to research. Some require organizational membership, volunteer hours, or criteria that may take time for the student to be eligible. “Royal Neighbors of America believes that every woman and her family should be financially secure and that education is the key to a brighter future,” said Tidwell. “Don’t be discouraged by rising college costs. There are ways to save if you plan ahead.” To learn more about scholarships and other member programs available through Royal Neighbors of America:

www.royalneighbors.org (800) 627-4762

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 41

Preserving Your

Wealth

By Ginny Grimsley

Ever since the financial crisis of 2008, many pundits and experts have openly doubted the viability of achieving the American dream. With homeownership, job opportunity and retirement security in decline, an Allstate/National Journal Heartland Monitor poll shows that most Americans agree with what the experts have said. Seven in 10 think that tomorrow’s adults – today’s kids – will have less financial security than adults today. “There are several long-term issues we need to address, including our estimated $17.3 trillion debt, a legacy that our children are poised to inherit; but I think the United States will be stable for the next 10 years, and maybe longer if we get our financial house in order,” says Stephen Ng, founder and president of Stephen Ng Financial Group,. “Many Americans who’ve worked their entire lives for a comfortable, if not luxurious, retirement want to know their money will be there – that’s their dream.” Ng is an international financial planner with certifications in 19 states. He’s passionate about teaching sound wealth practices to both clients and his community. Here are three important tips every pre-retiree and retiree should know to help preserve their wealth. • Go to an independent retirement-planning advisor. Financial planning can be confusing. For most retirees who are not professionals, the numbers, rules and terminology can seem like a foreign language. An independent advisor, who is licensed in multiple products – insurance, annuities and more – allows for a higher degree of objectivity, tailoring options for a client’s specific needs. He or she will not be bound to a corporate agenda or limited in their knowledge. Also, talk to the person who will be the architect of your financial future. Find out his or her values. How do they feel about their job? Are they patient in explaining your options? Do you trust your advisor? • Pre-retirees: know your start-date options for retirement. Be aware that in most cases, withdrawals from tax-deferred retire-

ment plans before age 59½ may be subject to a 10 percent federal income tax penalty. The latest date to begin required minimum distributions is usually April 1 of the year after you turn age 70½. In most cases, withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income. There are 10 common planning options, some of which are funded by employers. They are the defined benefit pension; money purchase pension; profit-sharing plan; savings plan; employee stock ownership plan; tax-sheltered annuities, or 403(b) plans; individual retirement accounts; self-employed plans; simplified employee pensions; Savings Incentive Match Plans for Employees; and annuity contracts. • Make sure you feel good about your annuity. An annuity is a contract with an insurance company in which you make one or more payments in exchange for a future income stream in retirement. The funds in an annuity accumulate tax-deferred, regardless of which type of annuity you choose. Fixed annuity contracts are issued with guaranteed minimum interest rates. Although the rate may be adjusted, it should never fall below a guaranteed minimum rate specified in the contract. Keep in mind that annuity guarantees are subject to the claims-paying ability of the insurance company and contain fees and charges which are not limited to sales and surrender charges. All withdrawals of tax-deferred earnings are subject to current income tax, and, if made prior to age 59½, may also be subject to a 10 percent federal income tax penalty. Additionally, if purchased within a qualified plan, an annuity will provide no further tax deferral features. The contract, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than the total amount invested. “This may be plenty of information to take in for now, but this is only the tip of the iceberg,” Ng says. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions. And, the more education you have about your own money, the better.” Stephen Ng is the founder and president of Stephen Ng Financial Group™ (www.stephenngfg.com). Since 1992, he has helped pre-retirees and retirees preserve and increase their wealth by, in part, helping them avoid common mistakes. He regularly holds financial management, retirement investing and insurance planning seminars at businesses, churches and non-profit organizations. Ng is a Chartered Life Underwriter, Chartered Financial Consultant and a Certified Estate Planner. He is also an Investment Advisor Representative offering securities and advisory services through SagePoint Financial, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Stephen Ng Financial Group and SagePoint Financial, Inc. are unaffiliated entities. Stephen brings a national and international perspective to his financial advice, with professional and educational roots in Australia and Asia, and certifications in 19 states.

www.stephenngfg.com FOCUS of SWFL 2014 43

Starting Your Own Home-Based Business

By Ginny Grimsley

Dreaming of launching a business from your home? You’ll join an ever-growing number of entrepreneurs, according to a broad new report based on 6,000 surveys.

“I started out helping other stay-at-home moms who wanted to create businesses, but there are men and women of all ages who want the freedom and independence you get from owning your own business and keeping it in the home.” Christine says she learned a lot from early colossal failures and from her successes, too. “A lot of people just starting out don’t think in terms of, ‘Will this choice still work in five years if the business is very successful?’ You need to consider that because it’s difficult and sometimes bad for business to go back and change things once you’ve become established,” she says. If you’re thinking about starting a home-based business, she shares some tips for laying the groundwork. • It all starts with an idea – is yours a good one? You need to be able to easily explain your idea (product or service) in one or two sentences because that’s all you’ll get to “sell” it to customers, investors and the media, including bloggers who you seek out for reviews. If you can’t explain it well in two sentences, either work on a simpler way to describe it or come up with a new idea.

Photo by Timur Suleymanov

• Determine whether your idea has been done before or if it’s brand new. There are generally three possibilities: It has been done but there’s still demand; it has been done and the market is saturated; or it has never been done. You can be successful in any of these scenarios, if you know where your idea falls and strategize appropriately. Search keyword phrases to see if what you have in mind already exists. If you come up empty, there’s either no demand or it’s never been done before. If it’s been done, search for competitors and see how many they are, what they’re doing, and how you might innovate to provide something even better, whether it’s product quality or service. • Create a list of all the things you need to plan for in your business. The list might be a series of questions whose answers will be the basis for your business plan. They might include – but by no means are limited to: What are you going to sell and for how much? Will you make or buy the product? How will you package and ship it? Will you ship internationally? How will you communicate with customers? What will be your business colors? Will you hire a bookkeeper or explore software to do that yourself? The list may seem daunting, but take time to make each decision one at a time and soon, you’ll see your business taking shape.

Sixty-nine percent of all U.S. businesses start in the home and half of them are still home-based long after they launch, according to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor report. “The median start-up cost was $15,000 but remember, that’s the median – it means plenty of people spend much less than that,” says Renae Christine, a serial entrepreneur who has created dozens of successful home-based businesses for herself and others. She shares practical how-to advice in her new book, “Home Business Startup Bible,”.

• Name your company after yourself or give it a made-up, easy-toremember one-word name. Naming the company after your product or service seriously limits future expansion (remember – it’s important to think ahead!) Naming it after yourself or giving it a one-word, made-up name allows you to expand into other products, services, and even industries. It also provides a common denominator that ties everything together. If you think you may eventually sell the company, go with a made-up name (think Zappos, Etsy, Google.) Doublecheck the U.S. Patent and Trademark website to ensure the name – even if it’s your own! -- is not already trademarked.

www.richmombusiness.com FOCUS of SWFL 2014 45

Business-First

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Banking Mentality

Family Features

Owning a home-based small business offers undeniable perks – flexible hours, the ability to control your own professional destiny, even the option to work in your jammies if the mood strikes. But many first-time business owners operating out of the home underestimate important aspects of operating your own company – especially when it comes to finances. Whether you’re funding a startup or sustaining an existing enterprise, money management is a critical aspect of successfully running your home-based business. However, many first-time entrepreneurs make the mistake of treating their home business finances similarly to their personal accounts. In the long run, this can be a costly mistake, according to Jay DesMarteau, head of small business at TD Bank. Checking accounts are the most popular financial products for small businesses, but a recent TD Bank survey found that more than 40 percent of small business owners are using the same account for business and personal use. An important first step is to understand the distinctions between a business checking account and a personal checking account, and why the former is a safer bet for your business. Business checking accounts allow small business owners to: 1. Manage your cash flow better. Small business owners have better cash flow management and more advanced payment capabilities when they choose business banking over personal banking for business. 2. Build your business brand. Having a business checking or business debit card with your company name on it can help establish an identity around your business. Also, customers might feel more 46 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

comfortable writing a check to a business instead of a personal account – it feels more professional. 3. Simplify your accounting and bookkeeping. Having a personal checking account and using it for your small business means you aren’t separating your business and personal finances. And that can make accounting and bookkeeping more complicated. In many cases, business accounts also afford a different level of protection and security than personal checking accounts. “Small business owners take on risk,” DesMarteau said. “A small business owner has better business fraud control when they use a business checking account compared with a personal checking account.” Choosing the right bank can also help you effectively manage the money side of your home-based business. The vast majority of small business owners (74 percent according to one of TD Bank’s local Small Business Pulse Check surveys) rely on lines of credit for expenses such as product or equipment costs, rent and marketing. Selecting a bank that offers diverse account options, bringing you the whole bank, including business checking and lines of credit, as well as loans, savings and credit options, can prepare you to tackle any number of financial scenarios that arise as you build your business. With proper financial guidance and a strong banking partner, small business owners can confidently focus on bringing their entrepreneurial visions to life.

www.tdbank.com

SIC

Come walk the red carpet! M

Bradenton Arts Movieville Film Festival May 8 – May 18, 2014

R FO UAL ER VIS P

It’s the Bradenton Area’s star-studded celebration of film and the arts – and your chance to join the swirl of events!

Movieville FILM FESTIVAL

2014

For more information: BradentonArtsMovievilleFilmFestival.com

BAMFF Grand Opening Celebration Powel Crosley Estate Thursday, May 8 6–10p.m. (By Invitation Only)

Preview of “Heart of the Shore” Kick-off Party for BAMFF South Florida Museum Thursday, May 15 6–10p.m.

ShowBiz Expo Bradenton Area Convention Center Saturday, May 10 Noon – 5p.m.

Movie Screenings Manatee Performing Arts Center Friday, May 16 10a.m.–6p.m.

Concert – Legends of Country and Rock Bradenton Area Convention Center Saturday, May 10 7–11p.m.

BAMFF Party on Main Street! Featuring local and national acts Old Main Street, Downtown Bradenton Friday, May 16 6:30–10p.m.

Sunset Tiki Cocktail Party Honoring SCF Film Students & Women in Entertainment Tarpon Pointe Wednesday, May 14 6:30–10p.m.

Movie Screenings Manatee Performing Arts Center Saturday, May 17 10a.m.–6p.m.

BAMFF Party at Pier 22 Riverfront Deck Saturday, May 17 6:30–10p.m. Movie Screenings Manatee Performing Arts Center Sunday, May 18 10a.m.–6p.m. Closing Gala At the DaVinci Exhibition Bradenton Municipal Auditorium Sunday, May 18 6:30–10p.m. (Gala Attire)

SAVE with a VIP Gold Pass! Get free admission and/or special seating and VIP perks at all events. Tickets available at BradentonArtsMovievilleFilmFestival.com Manatee Performing Arts Center • 502 3rd Avenue W, Bradenton, FL 34205 • 941-749-1111

Official host hotels: Anna Maria Islands Resorts AnnaMariaIslandsResorts.net • 941-778-6611

Hampton Inn & Suites • Bradenton Downtown Historic District 309 10th Street West • 941-746-9400

Sponsored by:

Glamour Guggenheim at the

Photo by Joe Schildhorn/BFAnyc.com

by Carson Glover

Katie Holmes, Jessica Biel and Kate Bosworth in jewels from the 2014 Blue Book Collection

One of New York City’s leading cultural institutions, the Guggenheim is revered for its modern and contemporary collection. Frank Lloyd Wright’s clean, curvaceous architecture is the ideal setting for Blue Book’s spectacular creations, the epitome of the jeweler’s art. Blue Book is the supreme showcase for these rare treasures, and on that night they burst into bloom like spring’s dramatic awakening.

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Tiffany Blue Book 2014 necklace Tiffany Blue Book 2014 earrings

Celebrating with all the glamour of its great heritage, Tiffany & Co. unveiled its 2014 Blue Book at an event which transformed the Guggenheim Museum into a pantheon of colors that filled the museum’s soaring rotunda. The approximately 300 guests, including Jessica Biel, Kate Bosworth, Katie Holmes, Hilary Rhoda and Jessica Joffe stepped into an atmosphere sparkling with gems of pure, saturated color—vibrant blue and green, sunny yellow, fiery red, pink and purple— handcrafted in designs as diverse and exuberant as nature itself. Among them were flowers of fancy color sapphires shimmering on a necklace of platinum vines, and an electrifying blue cuprian tourmaline framed by a diamond necklace. Other creations included a cuff of 18k white gold set with seamless waves of blue sapphires and diamonds; lavish Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger® rings with rubellite, aquamarine and turquoise; and fluid earrings and a bracelet of lustrous Montana sapphires. Tiffany highlighted this dazzling kaleidoscope with rarest fancy color and white diamonds, hand cut and set in jewels of ultimate style and excellence. Among these were an internally flawless 15.04-carat Fancy Vivid Yellow diamond ring; Art Deco-inspired bangles with yellow and white diamonds; a drape necklace with over 140 carats of exquisite stones; and opulent diamond and platinum rings.

Tiffany Blue Book 2014 tiara

Tiffany Blue Book 2014 bangle

Tiffany Blue Book 2014 rings

Tiffany Blue Book 2014 ring

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Tiffany Blue Book 2014 pendant and earrings

Tiffany Blue Book 2014 bracelet

Tiffany Blue Book 2014 bangles

Photo by Joe Schildhorn/BFAnyc.com

Tiffany Blue Book 2014 necklace

Celebration Eleglance of

Tiffany Blue Book 2014 bracelet

Jessica Biel, Estee Stanley and Francesca Amfitheatrof

www.tiffany.com 50 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Blue Book’s many colors and creative energy culminated in “The Diamond Sky,” a one-night-only sound and light installation by the Leo Kuelbs Collection. This moving spectacle led with mesmerizing imagery of Blue Book’s jewels in threedimensional forms that enveloped the museum’s rotunda. The faceted gems glowed ever brighter, making way for breathtaking projections of the Tiffany Diamond, icon of Tiffany’s diamond legacy, followed by a rendering of Tiffany’s Fifth Avenue flagship store and New York City’s glittering skyline. These touchstones of a brilliant heritage floated upward, shifting in space and morphing into stars, capping an unforgettable night when the world’s most magnificent jewels came to light with the magic of dreams.

Fei Fei Sun Tiffany Blue Book 2014 bracelet

Constance Jablonski

Hilary Rhoda

Alexi Ashe and Seth Meyers

Tiffany Blue Book 2014 rings

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Fashion & Style 9

12 16

7 14

Timeless Elegance and an Infusion of Youthfulness

4 8

3 1. Onyx in periwinkle - Double Shoulder 2. Heather - Top Handle Brief 3. Patras Ring with Rainbow Moonstone and Diamonds in 18kt Yellow Gold 4. DELEFINO - Pumps 5. Metropolis Earrings with Diamonds in 18kt Yellow Gold 6. Ivanka Domes Minaudiere in blush 7. Patras Earrings with Rainbow Moonstone and Diamonds in 18kt Yellow Gold 8. Patras Earrings with Rainbow Moonstone and Diamonds on 18kt Yellow Gold 9. Ava in teal - Dome 10. Patras Necklace with Rainbow Moonstone and Diamonds in 18kt Yellow Gold 11. Ellie – Chic oversized sunglass with bamboo-inspired logo décor on the temple. 100% UVA/UVA Protection. 12. DOLLIE - Pumps 13. LOIRELY - Flats 14. CARRA - Pumps 15. Patras Ring with Aquamarine with Diamonds in 18kt White Gold 16. Lara – The quintessential aviator with signature Ivanka Trump hinge décor. 100% UVA/UVA Protection.

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www.ivankatrump.com

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Fashion & Style

Festival Style

Whether you got your passes to Coachella months ago or you’re hiding out from the festival circuit altogether, it’s officially music season and the bright, tribal and boho look is back again. Swim retailer EverythingButWater is here to get everyone festival-street-style-ready for every music event from Lollapalooza to Governor’s Ball. And because she can’t catch SKATERS without putting on her dancing shoes, Duoboots.com has the perfect pair of booties for all the acts from Ava Luna to OutKast. Lastly, with over 100 styles to choose from, Rivet & Sway will help top off that festival look with the perfect “eye catching” accessory.

www.everythingbutwater.com

Dress SHORE ROAD / Bikini BECCA / Necklace NAKAMOL / Sun Glasses Rivet & Sway / Tote JADETRIBE / Jewelry CARA COUTURE / Clutch JADETRIBE / Sandals TKEES 54 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Style & Beauty With the start of summer in the air, it’s time to start thinking about changing up your hair! The one trend that is here to stay is ombre extensions and no wonder- what’s more summery than sun-kissed hair?! If you are curious about rocking the trend, but apprehensive about how permanent hair dye might be, you might want to consider trying the look with extensions. Leading hair extensions brand SHE by SO.CAP.USA offers two-tone ombre extensions, as well as fantasytipped extensions so you can try the fun look with, say, blue or pink ends! Depending on your commitment level to the new look, SHE by SO.CAP.USA ombre extensions are available in keratintipped bonded (lasts up to 3 months) or clip-In (for those who are toying with the idea). Both types are made of highest quality 100% human remy hair and can be styled as your natural hair. Available nationwide at over 10,000 salons. www.socapusa.com The HELMER handbag brand pulls inspiration from various cultures and destinations making it the ultimate handbag and accessory collection that embraces craftsmanship, style, functionality, and practicality. Helmer’s chic and sleek accessories can accompany you on your own travels, whether it is across mountains and oceans, or simply around the corner. Shevanne and Danielle Helmer, the creators of Helmer, designed the first collection focusing on simple pieces with a variety of beautiful colors using exotic skins and traditional Batik material. All of the collections are carefully crafted in Bali by local, family-run artisans that have been creating handbags for generations. Helmer prides itself simply ascreative intermediaries bringing simple classic pieces with a variety of beautiful and unique designs to customers from experiences and travels around the world. www.hel-mer.com

Geoffrey Beene launches a dress shirt collection, ties (in almost every color/pattern imaginable), suits, knitwear, loungewear, suits, accessories and eyewear. 100% of net profits from Geoffrey Beene, LLC (in combination with the Geoffrey Beene Foundation) go to funding revolutionary research across all cancers and support research towards the prevention and treatment of a number of funding scholarships, veterans’ causes and the protection of women and children and man’s best friend. Geoffrey Beene Dress Shirts & Neckwear Available in classic fit and fitted at Macy’s 56 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Fashionable Pieces Tiffany & Co Known for the essence of chic sophistication, Tiffany’s the premier jeweler of elegant simplicity. Each creation is wrapped in the Tiffany Blue Box® that makes hearts beat faster the world over. For any meaningful occasion, its presentation signals a magical moment that will linger in the memory of the receiver for a lifetime. www.tiffany.com

Soma's New Breathe Beautifully™ Bra Collection Breathe Beautifully Bra Collection, offers breakthrough airflow technology that breathes and supports. These bras are brilliantly engineered to provide support and concealment while being breathable and wickable. Soma knows that Beautiful Begins Underneath®. Home of the warmest personal service, Soma embraces women with luxuriously soft fabrics, innovative fashion, and an always perfect fit. Each Soma associate is a trained Bra Fit Expert, able to make women look and feel beautiful in a boutique environment. Soma carries 41 bra sizes from 32A-44G. www.soma.com

Nordstrom Loves BaubleBar BaubleBar, the one-stop retailer for affordable, on-trend fashion jewelry, partnered with Nordstrom to bring a capsule collection of BaubleBar jewelry to 35 Nordstrom stores and Nordstrom.com. The pop-up bar will showcase new and exclusive items from the jewelry brand including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. www.nordstrom.com

DUO Classic black--we’ve seen it, we’ve worn it, and yes, we still love it. Now, meet black’s exotic sibling, Navy. One of the hottest SS14 trends, Navy can be worn nautical, paired with your favorite neutrals or stand alone for a flawless evening option. Available in multiple silhouettes--flats, loafers, booties, and pumps-DUO delivers in style. www.duoboots.com

From bright orange to pastels, the collection communicates the femininity and strength of a woman wearing sleek pumps or casual flats. The color palette gives a good dose of freshness and liveliness. The line accents the levels of energy and vividness. Dusty shades of beige and brown serve as the basis for playful contrasts. The optimistic orange and yellow tones guarantee the sun-kissed chic spring/summer look. www.alepel.com

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Full Betsey Johnson Floral Fit & Flare Dress

INC International Concepts Ava Bedding Collection

INC International Concepts Martini Decorative Pillow

Bar III Gemma Bedding Collection

Charter Club Jacket, Tank Top & Skirt Martha Stewart Collection Cafe 2-Tiered Stand

Florals in Home

Florals are key to home every spring season. What makes them new this year is a focus on watercolor and wildflower motif, as well as larger, oversized floral patterns. This season, Macyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is all about going back to the basics. Pure white is on trend, as it serves as a clean contrast to both cool metals and natural woods. White is also a foundation color for all of the seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s floral prints. 5 steps for creating a playful spring-inspired table: 1. Start with a foundation of pure white dishes. Incorporate different shapes and textures for added interest. 2. For variety, feel free to mix materials and textures. For example, feature straw placemats and add embossed stainless flatware and metal serveware for a bit of sparkle. 3. Add color with glassware. The season's newest styles focus on color concentrated at the base of the glass vs. throughout the glass. 4. Consider oversized watercolor floral napkins. They will complement the glasses and add a hint of pattern to the table. 5. No matter what season, lighting is key to all tablescapes. Cluster candlestick holders in the center of your table and use pure white candles for a clean, crisp look. Stephen Cardino, VP/Fashion Director - Home

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Bloom

Alfani Blouse & Pants

Jessica Simpson Dresses Floral Fit & Flare Dress

Florals in Fashion

Florals are in full bloom and popping up everywhere. Picture a striking posy of optic 3-D botanicals and abstract field flowers – from the tiny to the oversized – in vintage-influenced pieces, menswear-inspired silhouettes, cropped shirts, fit and flare dresses, A-line skirts and silk blouses. Lace, brocade, decadent embroidery and sheer appliqués add refinement and the right touch of whimsy. Floral does not have to be overtly girly, but can also be tropadelic in inspiration, giving you a bright color with foliage green as your base. Try pairing florals together, but be careful, it’s all about balance. Play with scale as well; bigger florals on the bottom and smaller on the top. To balance the look, match your floral back to solids, so that your floral message really pops. This spring, you will also find floral influences in shoes, handbags, brooches and necklaces. In short: this isn’t your average garden party! Josh Saterman, VP/Fashion Director - Millennial

MADE Fashion Week for Impulse Only at Macys Dress

Martha Stewart Collection Floral Border Apron

Ivanka Trump Floral Shift Dress

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SWIMSCollection

From sneakers and loafers to towels and bags, SWIMS offers a complete line for your sunny ventures, whether you set sail for the day, spend a weekend around town or just taking it easy along the coast for a summer getaway. SWIMS offers ease and effortless comfort with a statement-making style to fit right in with the your eye-catching style for any summer activity. Offering vibrant, fun colors along with a soft comfortable feel fit for resort or laidback luxe living. Norwegian lifestyle brand SWIMS is thrilled to unveil new styles as part of their Spring/Summer 2014 collection. Renowned for reinventing classics such as the galosh, designer behind the brand Johan Ringdal has taken the same elements that have made the SWIMS galosh so successful and has applied these techniques to exciting new offerings for the season ahead. 62 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

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Inspired by the original German army trainer, the Luca sneaker is a sport-centric evolution of the iconic SWIMS loafer. Featuring a shock-absorbing sole, breathable mesh and supportive insoles, the Luca wicks moisture away while providing the ultimate in support and style. An eco-friendly and durable TPU injection ensures the stability and structure of the shoe, a construction that SWIMS has long since mastered with the launch of their innovative loafer. In combination with a lightweight mesh and an anti-bacterial, perforated EVA insole, the Luca provides maximum breathability and is meant to be worn barefoot, making it even easier to take SWIMS on the sailboat, for a jog on the beach, lunch at the shore, or from a day in the sand to dinner in the city. With an anti-slip outsole and more built-in features than ever before, the Luca sneaker is designed for anyone who appreciates the fusion of comfortable functionality and cutting-edge style.

WWW.SWIMS.COM

This season, the SWIMS Tassel Loafer and High Top Sport Loafer for men return, along with the Sport Loafer for men and women with a new anti-slip outsole. This style, based on the classic boat shoe, is perfect for any boating or yachting enthusiast. The modern and versatile SWIMS Loaferâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;in a bright array of fun colorsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;is an essential accessory for hot summer days on the beach or boat, and will take you easily from daytime to dinner.

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Mix it Up Designed to make you feel comfortable, Free Country’s swim line is sold in separates, enabling anyone to mix and match well-fitting styles. Whether you’re lying out in the sun, or riding a wave, these bathing suits give women the support needed for any water activity you may partake in this summer. Purchasing a swimsuit The most important thing to know when you begin your swim search is your body shape, what are your best features, what parts do you want to hide verses what you want flatter. Separate lines Usually for most women, a separates line will offer than most versatility to find the perfect match to their body type. If you are bigger on the top verses the bottom or vice a versa, having the flexibility of different styles and sizes will help. Sizing It’s important for you to purchase the correct bathing suit size. Don’t be scared of the actual “size”, it’s better to get a larger size if needed to ensure the suit doesn’t dig in or cut you in the wrong places. Swimsuit use Think about how you want to use your suit, are you lounging by the pool or chasing kids around? Do you want to run on the beach and play volleyball or just sit and relax and read a book on the beach? Depending on your lifestyle you want to make sure you get a suit that is supportive while flattering, so you can feel comfortable in it without worrying about falling out of it. Jody Schwartz Free Country swimwear and apparel is available for purchase on their website (www.freecountry.com) as well as at numerous major retailers, such as Kohl’s, JC Penney and additional specialty stores.

www.freecountry.com 66 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Irresistibly Breathtaking The new S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe is the latest dream car to augment the Mercedes-AMG model range. Exciting lines underpin this two-door model's design. Power and sensual purity combine to give the vehicle irresistible presence and breathtaking performance. Equally impressive is the combination of outstanding driving dynamics, advanced lightweight construction and groundbreaking efficiency. The AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine is a paragon of poise and assurance. Boasting an output of 577 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, the S63 AMG Coupe delivers exceptional performance with remarkably low fuel consumption. In addition, AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive (33/67% split) will come standard in the U.S. market for optimum traction in any driving situation. Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "The new S63 AMG Coupe is another exciting AMG dream car in the luxury segment. Now the S-Class Coupe also comes with performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive - as we rigorously pursue our all-wheel-drive initiative. Mercedes-AMG is putting the pedal to the metal again in the New Year. Our model initiative is set to continue at blistering pace in 2014." The S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe is the latest model to benefit from the systematic implementation of the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy. Lightweight construction has reduced the vehicle weight by up to 140 pounds â&#x20AC;&#x201C; even though the car has a higher output and more extensive standard equipment than the preceding model. This weight savings was achieved largely thanks to the use of a lightweight lithium-ion battery, optional AMG forged light-alloy wheels and a weight-optimized AMG high-

by Mai Yomioto

performance composite braking system. Furthermore, the entire outer skin and the front end of the body are made of aluminum. The reduced weight improves driving dynamics and cuts fuel consumption, while the low power-to-weight ratio results in impressive performance: the S63 AMG Coupe accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 3.9 seconds and goes on to reach a top speed of 186 mph (electronically limited). In terms of maximum output, torque and fuel consumption, the AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine remains one of the most efficient series-produced V8 engines of all. With an output of 577 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque, the AMG eight-cylinder unit meets even the most demanding of requirements. Compared to the previous CL63 AMG model, engine output has been increased by 41 hp and torque by 74 lb-ft. Yet the S63 AMG Coupe still consumes less fuel. Emotional and sporty performance or restrained and relaxing cruising: the S63 AMG Coupe even has a choice of bespoke sounds. The AMG sport exhaust system meets individual driver requirements as it has automatic logic-controlled exhaust flaps in both rear silencers. When the transmission is in "C" (Controlled Efficiency) mode, the flaps remain closed in most situations, in which case the eight-cylinder biturbo engine's sound is more understated. In "S" (Sport) and "M" (Manual) modes, the exhaust flaps open earlier and more spontaneously, especially if the driver prefers a dynamic driving style. The result is an even fuller, hallmark AMG emotive engine sound. Like all AMG V8 and V12 engines, the eight-cylinder biturbo engine for the S63 AMG Coupe is assembled by hand at the FOCUS of SWFL 2014 71

AMG engine shop in Affalterbach. Highly qualified engine fitters assemble the engines in Affalterbach according to the strictest quality standards based on the "one man, one engine" philosophy. Apart from serving as an AMG hallmark confirming superlative precision and production quality, the AMG engine plate bearing the engine technician's signature also attests to the peerless DNA of Mercedes-Benz high-performance brand.

Opening the door reveals the luxurious interior of the S63 AMG Coupe: the instrument panel almost seamlessly transitions into the doors in a wrap-around design. High-quality materials and fine workmanship are combined with a sporty and exclusive design idiom. The newly developed AMG sport seats with power adjustment, memory function and seat heating/ventilation offer the driver and front passenger optimum lateral support. Fine AMG design Nappa leather with piping together with AMG badges on all four seat backrests and an embossed AMG emblem on the armrest of the front center console create an exquisite atmosphere.

Photos courtesy of Daimler AG

For the first time, the S63 AMG Coupe comes standard in the U.S. market with the AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. With permanent all-wheel drive, 33 percent of the engine torque is sent to the front axle and 67 percent to the rear axle. The rear-biased power distribution provides the signature AMG high driving dynamics and superlative driving enjoyment as well as boosting acceleration from a standing start. The allwheel drive also enhances driving safety on wet or wintry road surfaces when equipped with winter tires**. Optimum traction is guaranteed by a multi-disc clutch with a locking effect of 37 lb-ft, which maximizes the frictional connection potential of all four wheels.

the front apron and displays the stylized "A" that is a hallmark of AMG vehicles. Large, black flics surround the outer cooling air intakes. Down below, the front splitter in silver shadow optimizes the flow of air to the cooling modules. This design feature, which is a familiar sight in motorsport, also reduces front-axle lift and enhances the vehicle's aerodynamic balance.

The S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe also boasts exciting looks to emphasize its sporty performance: it exudes power and hallmark Mercedes-Benz sensual purity. The design is a stage for the exciting technology at the heart of the new dream car. Numerous aerodynamic elements underline the outstanding driving dynamics: the front end is dominated by the three-dimensional AMG "twin-blade" radiator grille in silver shadow (a matte silver finish). Whether in motion or stationary, distinctive AMG lettering between the twin-blade lamellas leaves no doubt: this is a highperformance model from Affalterbach. The A-wing is located below the radiator grille. This three-dimensional air-ducting element is painted in the body color, spans the entire width of 72 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

The new three-spoke AMG sport steering wheel with its distinctively contoured rim and perforated leather in the grip area allows perfect vehicle control. There is an AMG logo in the lower metal insert, and new aluminum shift paddles shorten the reaction time when changing gears to enhance performance. Another feature displaying the hallmark AMG look is the highresolution TFT color AMG instrument cluster with two animated round dials. In addition to the specific lettering and the needles in red/silver, further distinctive design features include the AMG start-up display, the AMG logo in the speedometer 200 mph scale (left) and the "V8 BITURBO" lettering in the rev counter (right).

The new, innovative touchpad, included as standard equipment, makes it significantly easier to operate the radio, telephone and navigation system. The safety and assistance systems are the same as those for the S550 4MATIC Coupe. One particularly exclusive model in the range is the S63 AMG Coupe "Edition 1. The expressive arrangement of exclusive exterior and interior details arouses pure fascination. The irresistible look of the exterior is created from designo Magno Alanite Grey matte finish paint and Swarovski crystals in the LED high-performance headlamps. The exquisite ambience of the interior includes AMG sport seats upholstered in designo Exclusive Nappa Leather in bengal red/black with contrasting topstitching and piping. In keeping with this color scheme, the upper section of the dashboard, the front and rear center armrests, and the door linings are trimmed in nappa leather with contrasting topstitching, while the headliner is in finished in DINAMICA. The Edition 1 features a high level of equipment including the AMG Ceramic Braking System. The United States launch of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Coupe 4MATIC will be in Fall 2014â&#x20AC;Ś You can breathe now

www.mbusa.com

Most Expensive Suit in the World Suitart, a company based in Zurich that features attractive and stylish custom made and tailored suits for men, has just posted a new article that describes what is being called the most expensive suit in the world. Called Diamond Armor, the custom tailored suit seems like it would be right at home in the newest James Bond 007 movie. Featuring an impeccable combination of luxury, art and technology, the most expensive tuxedo in the world includes a number of features. As the new article notes, the Diamond Armor suit is not only waterproof, but it is also bulletproof to NATO standards. To keep the wearer as comfortable as possible, it also includes an innovative cooling system. Instead of a plain lining found in many suits, the Diamond Armor’s silk lining shows the artwork “Unidad Molecular Aleatoria,” a piece that was featured in the movie “This Means War”. To add even more elegance and class to the suit, it features 880 black diamonds. The lapel and the contours of the Diamond Armor are graced with 600 black diamonds each with a diameter of four millimeters and a total weight of 140 carat,” the article on Suitart notes, adding that the polish of the certified and golden diamonds indicates their exceptional quality.

Suitart's CEO David Baumann, Zurich based company whose main activities are men's tailor made suits.

“The buttons of the jacket consist of Swiss watch steel 316L with DLC coating and are graced with additional 280 black diamonds. The diamonds on the fabric are processed with a gold setting with extravagantly Swiss craftsmanship and sewed on by well-experienced tailors.” The fact that the suit is bulletproof not only adds to its high price, it also helps to set it apart from most other luxurious custom suits on the marketplace. The suit is ranked as Level II in the protection classification. Because an exceptional suit like the Diamond Armor needs a tie to go with it that is just as memorable, the fabric specialist Weisbrod from Zurich and EMPA developed a 24 carat golden silk tie that will complement the suit perfectly. Included in the price of the suit, the tie is made of golden fabric that is woven with golden threads. The tie, notes the article, is made from the first permanently golden fabric in the world.

Suitart's CEO David Baumann is shaking Sascha Möri's hand, CEO of the Carl F. Bucherer company.

To complete the look of the world’s most expensive suit, the wearer may wish to add a rare and opulent watch. The Carl F. Bucherer “Patravi Traveltec Fourx Limited Edition” is the ideal watch to go with the suit; only 125 of these stateof-the-art watches exist, one of which is for the Diamond Armor suit.

www.suitart.com 74 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Guests view the Diamond Armor Suit

Future The

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has

Arrived

Photos courtesy of Ferretti Group America

very special moment in the history of Riva, a brand that is the icon of Made in Italy excellence in the world, but also in the history of the Italian yachting industry as a whole, as today Riva launched a brand-new class of yacht, entirely conceived and built in Italy with the heir of a centuriesold tradition.

This day is, above all, a first important achievement, after so many months of hard work, from the various teams involved in the development of this crowning jewel. The 122’ Mythos is bound to mark a turning point in the history of the brand and, at the same time, become a symbol of it with its fitting Mythos name. Because at Riva History blends with Myth.

The Riva 122’ Mythos, the new flagship of the Ferretti Group brand, was officially launched this morning at the CRN shipyard in Ancona, in the presence of the Group’s top management and of the engineers, architects and designers that have worked on this project for over a year. The ceremony was also attended by the many workers of the Marche-based shipyard - which specializes in the construction of fully-customized mega yachts in steel and aluminum ranging from 40 (132ft.) to 90 meters (300ft) in length - that over the last few months contributed to the creation of this jewel. The 122’ Mythos really marks a turning point in Riva’s heralded history, a brand known all over the world for its legendary wooden motor yachts, the symbols of the Dolce Vita and the icons of a truly unforgettable time. The new yacht is indeed the largest yacht built in the 172-year history of the Italian brand, and the first entirely built in aluminum - a debut that Riva is sharing with CRN, since this is the first time the Ancona-based shipyard is using light alloy only to build a yacht. The 122’ Mythos is also the symbol of the renewed cooperation between these two historical and iconic brands of the Italian boating industry, both belonging to the Ferretti Group. A cooperation that started over 40 years ago, in 1970, when Carlo Riva decided to establish a partnership with CRN. Between 1970 and 1978 the two brands jointly built as many as six 23.50-metre (78 ft.)-long motor yachts in the Marco Polo series and two Vespucci yachts, 90ft. and 100 ft. long, respectively.

The new flagship is the outcome of the cooperation between Yacht Designer Mauro Micheli and Sergio Beretta, founders of Officina Italiana Design, the design firm that conceived the entire Riva range and AYT&D - Advanced Yacht Technology & Design, in close cooperation with CRN’s Technical and Interior Design Department for the development of the naval project and the interiors. The 122’ Mythos is an evolution of the 86’ Domino, from which it has inherited the main stylistic features. The owner of the first hull has requested the 3-cabin optional version, while the standard version proposed by the shipyard has 4 cabins. An additional optional layout with 5 cabins is also available. The aluminum planning hull can reach a maximum speed of 27.5 knots and a cruising speed of 25 knots thanks to two MTU 12 V 4000 M 93L, 3510 mhp engines (preliminary data). Following the technical launch, a few weeks will be devoted to the completion of onboard outfitting activities, particularly as regards décor solutions and interiors. Technical trials will then be performed. The yacht is expected to be officially delivered to the owner in early May. During the summer months the 122’ Mythos is scheduled to cruise across the Mediterranean Sea and it will be officially presented to the public at the 2014 Festival International de la Plaisance in Cannes. The 122’ will also be presented in Monaco, simultaneous to the Yacht Show, and will then sail off to its final destination, Brazil, its owner's country. “Today is a very special day for Riva and for all of us at the Ferretti Group as it marks a new chapter in Riva’s prestigious 172 year history” commented Ferruccio Rossi, Ferretti Group’s CEO. “This is indeed for the Mythos the beginning of a path that we believe will be extremely successful. For Riva, in turn, it’s another exciting chapter of a book that we keep writing day after day, feeling great pride and responsibility in doing so. We are sure that the new flagship will be an extraordinary ambassador for Riva, for the Ferretti Group, and for the entire Italian boating industry, as a symbol of industrial know-how and unmistakable Italian beauty. We can’t wait to officially present it to all Riva enthusiasts all over the world,” added Rossi.

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SAILING OUTSIDE OF TIME

By Andrea Sculati

Exactly one year after opening its doors, “Zuccon SuperYacht Design” is ready to amaze the megayacht market with an ambitious new design. In the wake of the launch of the ZSYD 90 and the ZSYD 92 in 2013, Zuccon International Project’s “SuperYacht” brand launches a new 55 metre yacht with a classic flavour. Also, after a year of hard work, the Rome-based studio has reorganised its many designs on the basis of five different style concepts: Timeless, Floating Architecture, Dislopen Series, Over 100 and Vintage. Five ways of thinking about superyachts, and five ways of responding to demand on the market with the right balance of innovation, style and comfort.

ollowing the launch of the ZSYD 90 in April 2013 and the ZSYD 92 at the Monaco Yacht Show in September, Zuccon International Project’s “SuperYacht” brand now presents the new ZSYD 55 Febo. 55 metres long, with minimal lines, the simple design of this striking yacht looks as if it’s intended for speed and high performance. But appearances can be deceptive, for the ZSYD 55 is precisely the opposite: a full displacement hull that travels at a leisurely pace and saves fuel, in line with the current trend of demand for low operating costs and fuel consumption. A key factor in the design of the vessel is use of outside space, seen as almost more important than the interior. There is a deck at the prow (as in previous Zuccon designs) which does not repeat the same functions as the interior spaces but leaves plenty of room for outside fittings. Aesthetics and ergonomics are harmoniously blended in its style. The elegance of the vessel’s lines and the perfect balance between form and functionality make the yacht’s design innovative yet timeless.

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Designed to be up to date at all times, the concept and design of the ZSYD 55 perfectly represent the meaning of “Timeless”, the name of one of the five product categories Zuccon International Project introduced recently as part of the stylistic and conceptual reorganisation of its numerous and highly diverse superyacht designs. Solid research is what makes the design solutions of this category’s yacht so perfect and accurate. The timeless elegance of the lines and perfect union of form and function in the layout give these yachts a contemporary style and allure that remains unaltered over the years. These are true "Classics" in the most positive sense of the word; and for designers, they represent an irresistible challenge: leaving a clear and indelible sign of quality. In addition to Timeless, the Dislopen, Floating Architecture, Over 100 and Vintage categories sum up the practical, multidisciplinary nature of Zuccon’s work.

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LAUNCH OF THE NEW GRANDE 95RPH

Azimut Grande 95RPH, the most exclusive Collection among the Azimut range, was launched in Viareggio. The latest model to be included in the Grande Collection, is also the first one being realized since the Collection was reintroduced in the Azimut Yachts family, side by side with the others: Atlantis, Magellano, Flybridge and S. Once again the already established collaboration between designer Stefano Righini, in charge of the concept and the external lines, and Studio Salvagni Architects for the interior layout, resulted in a project characterized by a unique and unmistakable style. Among the most interesting innovations introduced onboard this 29 meters, the raised pilothouse – hence the name of the model, where RPH stands for Raised Pilot House - the incredibly spacious flybridge - over 60 sqm - and the peculiar interior space configuration that includes 4 VIP cabins in addition to the master suite. The Grande Collection currently includes five models, ranging from 95 to 120 feet, designed for Owners willing to customize their yacht: a team of technical and production experts, in fact, will work with them throughout the whole yacht’s construction process so to define together each single aspect, whether it concerns technical or design features. Dedicated to over thirty meters long planning vessels, characterized by a high level of customization, the Grande series is the most exclusive among the Azimut Yachts’ five collections, and this new model perfectly highlights the Collection’s elevated technology and style standards.

www.azimutyachts.com

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er n g e i Des rofil P

Irina is an award-winning Latvian photographer who has always been fascinated by how photography can capture beauty and emotion; this led her to work largely in portrait, wedding and fashion photography.

Irina Kuzmina By Jevgenija Glazunova

After a few years she began to feel discouraged. She spent her days capturing bold, modern images of leading fashion trends and delicate snapshots of special moments, which naturally led her to develop a strong personal style that was equally bold and modern. Yet she found that look completely compromised by the unattractive and bulky traditional photo bags she needed to carry her equipment. So she decided there had to be a better way. She went on a global search for a camera bag that would be smart, modern, professional—all that she was: A bag that would perfectly reflect her own style. It needed to be attractive enough to bring to a wedding; strong enough to protect her expensive gear; and large enough to fit everything she needed on set. Even after an extensive search, she found nothing available that met her needs. So she decided to design her own. Her dream bag, the Cologne, debuted in 2010. It brought together the fields of fashion and photography in an entirely new way—sexy and sleek, it allowed photographers to keep their equipment safe… without compromising their personal style. Since then POMPIDOO has made a name for itself by taking functional things and making them stylish. From the sweet and feminine Palermo to the bold and sexy Kimberly, their current product line displays an attractive variety of styles in a multitude of colors—and there’s even a male bag. If diamonds are a girl’s best friend, then the Kimberly is a girl’s partner in crime: ready to do it all at the drop of a hat. The perfect “pop” to any outfit, Kimberly is the newest design from luxury camera bag manufacturer POMPIDOO. Its flared gusset design creates an edgy silhouette for a bag that is both refined and flamboyant on the outside, yet roomy enough on the inside for everything a fashionista needs on the go. Like any best friend, Kimberly is perfectly equipped to keep every IT girl’s secret: This bag can hold an SLR camera with lens, 1-2 extra lenses or flash, keys and a phone plus a tablet or iPad—and no one will ever know. Made from exceptional Italian leather, the Kimberly mixes business with pleasure. It’s durable, yet sassy—perfect for business meetings or a night beside the catwalk, catching up on the latest styles. Kimberly offers all the features you’d expect of a leading brand in the fashion-market today, with only the highestquality European materials and three color options (Jazzy White, Mellow Brown or Noble Grey) guaranteed to match any woman’s personal style.

www.pompidoo.com

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Art Can Change The World By Lillian Phipps

What does one do with vacant space beneath a parking garage facility in Punta Gorda, FL? One could answer, ‘Give the space to diverse artists who want to create, display and sell their art to established collectors’ and beginning enthusiasts in the art community. This is the impetus for the concept of the Artisan’s Atelier Working Artist’s Studio & Gallery in the beautiful city of Punta Gorda, FL.

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Susan Sammis & Howard "HAICH" Goldson

Victoria Donahue & Mark Preuss

DEDO Art

Nick Masiello

Kathy Wood 86 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Gerro Art

Nick M. Art

The Artisan’s Atelier, in its 4th year is a working artist’s studio and gallery; the only one of its kind in Punta Gorda. There is capacity for nine artists’ whose work has passed a juried committee process by a panel of advisory board members of the Punta Gorda Downtown Merchant’s Association. Like any process, the criteria is set to meet the highest standard for the gallery and the public so that they may enjoy the experience of a working studio of professional artists - each with their own discipline, style and technique. “We have the city of Punta Gorda to thank for allowing us to be in this space,” said Mark Preuss, an exquisite painter, who paints with oil and mixes his own hues to perfection. As a collective yet autonomous group of artist’s, there’s no lack of inspiration or ideas that has an opportunity to linger for any length of time. There is always a word of encouragement, support, and constructive criticism, if applicable, to help any artist, whether or not one of the artists is feeling doubtful about a current project in progress.

Susan Sammis, specializes in photography, and is always creating something new and exciting with her work. Her latest project will “discover and incorporate all that Punta Gorda has to offer” as she views it from her camera lens. Her husband, Howard Goldson is an abstract artist who works daily uncovering the limitless possibilities that painting has to offer Gina L. Battle, an expressionist abstract artist said, “There simply isn’t any need for competition here because everyone’s work is so different, offering a wide range of choices for everyone.” This is a unique experience working, exhibiting and selling amongst other artists at this studio. Take time to visit on the third Thursday of every month, from 5 PM-8 PM, when the Punta Gorda Downtown Merchants Association Inc presents a Gallery Walk for all of the galleries in Punta Gorda. Each gallery takes on the responsibility of hosting and presenting their artwork for showcasing and selling to the public. This is a great opportunity to involve individuals, families, and the art community on a larger scale and to allow the visitors to engage personally with each artist. It’s free and it’s fun.

The creative process doesn’t stop within the building itself. All of the members are apt to share their artistic prowess by displaying their vast works of art, consisting of multiple genres within the art community. They can also be seen on exhibit, periodically at the Visual Arts Center; in local downtown restaurants and in other businesses. However, this is in no way limited to the down town Punta Gorda area. The works of the talented artists is highly sought after for runway shows; back drops for stages, event venues, interior designers, and props for set designs, videos and television production companies. Many have been seen in magazines. Several of the artists have had the distinction of displaying, and placing for ribbons, in exhibitions and shows with associations and organizations within the performing arts in Florida, and in some cases, nationally and internationally. It can be said, that working together as a group can be a challenge in any working environment; however, when creative minds get together, amazing things frequently develop. The Artisan’s Atelier featured a runway show by fashion designer & painter, Helen Gerro, a crowd favorite. “I love what I do. I’ve been doing it a long time.” The fashion shows incredible performance art sculpted pieces were created by designer, John “DEDO” Cristina, paper sculptor artist and painter, which featured seven professional models March 2014 Gallery Walk at the Artisan’s Atelier. “Art can change the world, one person at a time.” Dedo said. Kathy Wood is also a tremendously gifted artist who works with beads and other materials to create fabulous jewelry & gifts. Her pencil drawings are meticulous depictions which are spirited with the essence of a soothing serenity. Kathy provided her beautiful original handcrafted jewelry for the fashion show. “This is my sanctuary from the rigors of the day. I enjoy being in my quiet space here.” Nicholas “Nick” Masiello’s work is fun, smart, and funky, yet makes a statement that speaks to the youth and to the world with a cosmic feeling. He often uses, but isn’t limited to splatter, drip and other techniques in his work.

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Artisanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Atelier

Fashion Show Guest, Maria Von Atzigen, Helen Gerro & Runway Model

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Runway Model & DEDO

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PUNTA GORDA

DID YOU

KNOW...

• Location: Punta Gorda is one mile from Interstate 75 and situated on beautiful Charlooe Harbor. • Access: e city airport means convenient arrivals and departures for commercial, charter and private air travelers. Come by air, land, or sea. • Features: Over 70 miles of navigable canals ow seaward to white-sand barrier islands and the Gulf of Mexico. Around town, shady sidewalks, trails and marked routes invite shopping, exploring, walking and biking. • Fishing: It’s world class. Folks sh Punta Gorda the way they like it: blue-water sport, back bay driiing, marsh and mangrove, or surf and sand.

City of Punta Gorda

326 W. Marion Ave. Punta Gorda, FL 33950 (941) 575-3302 | PGORDA.US Design by Christopher Frame www.christopherframe.com

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THE BEST

SMALL CITY IN FLORIDA

unta Gorda is the rarest of places a–gem at the edge of Florida’s Gulf Coast, a treasure that charms and delights. Florida’s best small city marries the allure of a world-class resort with the pleasures of a hometown welcome. National travel and lifestyle editors tout its premier sports and recreation, blue-ribbon arts and culture, and its variety of casual

and ne dining. If you haven’t yet enjoyed the pleasures of Punta Gorda, think of big shing and snug village shopping. Imagine a community for life and a unique weekend holiday. Historic Punta Gorda is safe, clean, and accessible. Folks never tire of its sunsets (no two are alike!) and celebrations. First-time or returning, visiting or staying, those who discover Punta Gorda nd it for life.

“Come for the weekend Stay for life.”

Copy and editing by: Marilyn Tarnowski Photography by: Thanks to the Punta Gorda community for a collaborative effort in producing the candid photographs.

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THE BEST EXPERIENCE

Photo: Jim Johnston

SAILING

ail Magazine’s recent review of Punta Gorda’s front door describes Charlooe Harbor as a ““in-Water Paradise.” at’s how sailors identify friendly waters perfect for small and medium-size cruisers, yachts and charter boats. Punta Gorda has deep water access, too. National and regional shing tournaments draw world-class anglers. At the waterfront, Fishermen’s

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YACHTING

MARINA

BOATING

Village harbors boardwalk shops, casual and ne dining, and resort accommodations. Marina Dock Age Magazine evaluated the bustling village’s full-service docks and shops, rating it “Marina of the Year.” Captains and crews rave about its protected harbor and chandlery services for just about every boating need. Whether arriving by kayak or yacht, maritime visitors nd Punta Gorda’s snug harbor is an island of enchantment.

MARINA of THE YEAR Marina Dock Age Magazine

TOP10 PLACES TO SAIL

Sail Magazine

BEST 15 YACHTING TOWN

Yachting Magazine

City of Punta Gorda

(941) 575-3302 | PGORDA.US Photo: Jim Johnston

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THE BEST EXPERIENCE

ACTIVE LIFESTYLE

BICYCLING

hether pedaling around town with the city’s free bike-loaner program, taking a stroll, gollng, tennis, mini-marathons, regaaas or races – if it’s outdoors, Punta Gorda does it with style. Florida’s best small city is a bike-friendly, safe-walking community. Its network of pedestrian sidewalks links historic neighborhoods and parks, connecting strollers and joggers to downtown

City of Punta Gorda

(941) 575-3302 | PGORDA.US 94 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

GOLFING

aaractions and a vibrant city center. Eighteen miles of groomed paths and pet-friendly walking trails are professionally marked and maintained, winning the city Florida Bicycle Association’s Community of the Year award. Lifestyle columnists and sports writers – ranging from Golf Digest, Sail, and Money Magazine to Forbes and Rand McNally – keep Punta Gorda at the top of their national “Best of” lists year aaer year.

BICYCLE COMMUNITY of THE YEAR

Florida Bicycle Association

THIRD BEST PLACE TO LIVE & PLAY GOLF

GOLF DIGEST

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LOCAL FARMER’S MARKET SAFEST SMALL CITY

Photo:Waterlife Magazine

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FOCUS of SWFL 2014 97

NUMBER ONE LOCATION FOR

TARPON FISHING IN THE WORLD Tarpon Magazine

PLACE TO CATCH MONSTER TARPON FlyFishingFrenzy.com

lorida’s southwestern estuaries, mangrove wetlands, historic rivers, and productive uplands comprise one of the largest ecosystems of its kind in North America. Punta Gorda takes immense pride in its ecological riches. Inland, its green-tree canopy shades city streets and residential districts. Surrounding the city, maritime and coastal habitats support over 600 species of birds, sh, and marine wildlife. Punta Gorda’s ecosystem is

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managed in partnership with state and federal scientists to accommodate a wide range of active and passive uses. Accessible parks and preserves, boat launches, and picnic areas invite family excursions. Fish for the 40-inch snook; catch-and-release the silver king tarpon. Stalk ocks of roseate spoonbills with binoculars; capture pods of dolphin on video. e region’s unique environment sustains Florida’s best small city.

EXPERIENCE

THE BEST

FISHING SPOT IN THE WORLD Sport Fishing Magazine

WILDLIFE

ESTUARY

FISHING

LARGEST WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT IN THE STATE

2 LARGESTINESTUARY THE STATE

Photo: Cynthia Zemen

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Talk

Nerdy to Her Katie Linendoll is an Emmy Award winning TV personality, writer, tech expert and global tech consultant. She’s a writer and contributor to the TODAY show, a regular contributor to CNN, and recently finished a series on innovation for Huffington Post. We asked her to tell us about how she got her cool job, and to fill us in on what she’s been working on lately. Here’s what she told us, in her own words:

I’ve been immersed in technology my whole life. I even attended computer camp long before computers were cool. As a kid, I got into it because it was fun for me. I earned my networking certificates before I graduated high school and went on to receive my bachelor’s degree in information technology new media from Rochester Institute of Technology – I’m proud to have been the only girl in most of my classes! Still, I never could have predicted the quick explosion in things I once considered “Jetsons”-like gadgets—like smart phones and wearable technology—not to mention the insatiable consumer interest in those gadgets. I’m grateful that technology has become so deeply ingrained in retail and pop culture, because that has allowed me to follow my passion, and carve a career doing what I love most: becoming an on-air tech expert, global tech consultant, tech reporter and more. I got my start with ESPN’s SportsCenter, and won an Emmy for my work at age 22. A few years later, I received another Emmy nomination for my work as tech host on A & E’s We Mean Business. Over time, I’ve served as host on All Access Weekly on Spike TV, where I interviewed dozens of celebrities, including Norman Reedus, Jim Carrey, Rob Zombie and Ethan Hawke. I have also had the opportunity to write for dozens of publications, including ESPN the Magazine, ESPN.com, Marie Claire, Shape Magazine, CBS.com and more. Thanks to my tech and media back-

ground, I’m able to research, produce and create all of my own segments. I’ve participated in media projects with Dell, HP, Hyatt, IBM, Cadillac and Lincoln, leading speaking engagements across the country. And I’ve held a job I never thought I would: serving as a technology host at HSN, where I was responsible for more than $20 million in sales for the network (I’m great on dates—I can fill a lull in two seconds!) Today, I’m a writer and contributor for the TODAY Show, I regularly contribute to CNN and I recently completed filming a series on innovation for Huffington Post. Thanks to my job, I have the opportunity to explore the technology stories that truly fascinate me. Looking back at the stories I’ve covered, there are days when I feel like I’m living in a dream. I think back to when I introduced Google Glass to the St. Louis Rams for ESPN, exploring the implications that the augmented reality perspective could have for the NFL and fans. Then there was the time I got to visit NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab and Mars Yard. It was like I’d summited one of the seven summits of nerd-dom. Other career highlights include jetpacking over the Pacific Ocean, traveling to Kenya to see, firsthand, how technology is helping eradicate illiteracy in the poorest parts of the world, and learning to spearfish in order to hunt the invasive lionfish in the Atlantic Ocean, surrounding Bermuda, for a CNN story I produced. I have to say, I feel incredibly blessed to be able to continue following my passion in the tech world, and to have been lucky enough to make a career out of it! FOCUS of SWFL 2014 103

We decided to take advantage of that momentum, and have Al’s oversleeping be the drama in the game. Only you, the user, can awaken him, and you do it by flicking quirky characters, called “Rokies,” at matching icons in Al’s dream, and, in doing so, clear a path to his alarm clock and strike it, waking Al up. At the same time, the weather icons used in the game are all based on the what’s happening in the player’s local weather forecast (those icons also act as Al’s mascots). The game has two different gameplay worlds, each of which has 10 levels and unique bonus rounds. After we came up with the plot, the drawing, storytelling and programming could begin. I even got to add some of my own fun elements. I do some of the voices and have named two of the characters after my minion niece and nephew, who were beta testers. Ruby Cloudette and Jack Froski. It was a fun, educational and all-consuming process, for everyone involved. Now that it’s hit shelves, we can’t wait to hear what you have to say about all of our hard work.

Photography by Katie Linendoll, Karla Ticas & Eric Lacour

Which brings us to this year. Over the last 12 months, I’ve had the opportunity to tackle one of my most challenging tech project, to date: Working alongside America’s favorite weatherman, Al Roker, to conceive, create and launch his first app. “Al’s Weather Rokies” just hit App store shelves, and I’m on pins and needles waiting to see how it’s received. Collaborating with one of my best friends and favorite interactive designer, Steve Lunny, we’ve come up with a product that all of us are crazy about, and it’s been an incredible labor of love to get to this point. It’s funny to be so obsessed with my own app, because today, the notion of creating an app almost feels like a cliché. It’s kind of like coming up with the idea for the next great blockbuster: everybody seems to have one, but that doesn't mean it’s going to ever hit the theaters. Or, in our case, smart phones. Conceiving of an app—especially a complex one—is one thing. Seeing it through conception to production to distribution is a whole different story. It’s a laborious process, and I’m not sure people realize how much work and patience it entails!

Now that that hard work is behind us, I can’t stress enough how wonderful it was to work alongside Al in this endeavor, and to be a creative force in the game. Al was super involved with the process. He actually drew two of the mascots for the game, gave us quite a bit of creative direction and assisted with the voiceovers. After all, what’s an Al Roker app without his signature line: “Here’s what’s happening in your neck of the woods.” The creation of “Al’s Weather Rokies” was an intimidating prospect from the get-go. First, I’ve been a huge fan of Al’s since I started as a tech contributor on TODAY years ago. So creating something like this came with a built-in pressure valve. On top of that, I’m a perfectionist when it comes to my own work, and even more so if I’m working on someone else’s behalf. Second, there are more than 1 million apps in the app store. That’s a lot of noise to break through! I knew we would have to create a product that was unique enough to really stand out. It had to be both fun, and useful, incorporating an exciting game with value added, real-time weather information, customized to the player’s location. And it had to be funny. Al Roker is a funny guy, and his game should reflect that. Third, Al had a tall order. You might not know this about him, but he’s actually a huge fan of cartoons, and a cartoonist, himself. His office is practically wallpapered with custom pieces—HannaBarbera, Animaniacs, and even an autographed work by Adam West (aka Batman) that says, “You stole Penguin’s umbrella!” So we knew art expectations were high. Plus, Al had his reputation to keep up. He told us, “If I don’t nail this, my kids will say, ‘Oh, Dad, you’re just as lame as your app.” No pressure there! The first step, before creating any of the art, writing the code or devising the text: we needed a narrative. That plot revealed itself fairly easily. Last year, Al’s alarm clock didn’t go off, and for the first time in his four-decade career, Al Roker overslept. Obviously, it was a huge deal, and became something of a pop culture gaffe.

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One of the things I love best about my job is that it’s constantly changing, and I awaken to something new and different every day, whether I’m designing an app for Al Roker, traveling to Costa Rica, Bermuda or Africa to research future stories, scoring the Guinness World Record for the most high fives in 60 seconds, putting myself through “digital detox” for a story, traveling to a college or corporation to speak about technology and the list goes on. Some mornings, I wake up to a phone call saying I’m needed on live television within hours. Other times, I’m secretly multitasking months on end to develop a concept, like “Al’s Weather Rokies,” that people around the world can play, any time they want. And with technology constantly changing, I feel pretty secure and grateful for my job, for the foreseeable future. Until next time, stay tuned!

I earned my networking certificates before I graduated high school...

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PANDORA’s collection of outstanding jewelry features raw, elegant designs inspired by rock style with a hint of vintage and a bit of attitude. PANDORA bracelets give women the freedom to capture the unforgettable moments that make life extraordinary and the new charms of the fall season offer a twist on what has become the hallmark of the PANDORA brand. Two elegant sterling silver bracelets are also new–one is designed to hold one traditional or new decorative clip, the other as many as five. Mix, match and combine the clips and bracelets in any combination, creating pieces that are unique to your personal style. It’s an idea inspired by PANDORA’s popular charm bracelet. Create and combine looks with other new additions to the PANDORA universe, including a line of 14k solid gold earrings, pendants and dangle charms with intricate lace details and diamonds; and large cocktail rings, featuring amethyst or grey moonstone, that are perfect for stacking. Stunning earrings inspired by delicate lace patterns in 14K gold with freshwater pearls and diamonds can be worn on their own, layered or combined with other pieces from the Compose collection. Rings in 14K gold, sterling and black oxidized silver have florally inspired designs with an unpredictable twist that is raw yet feminine. Large cocktail rings in amethyst or grey moonstone are perfect for stacking with this season’s more delicate pieces. New LovePod rings in white, yellow and rose 18K gold with brilliant-cut diamonds or colorful gemstones work beautifully with other pieces of PANDORA jewelry and interlock when stacked together. The spirit of nostalgic rock infuses the collection, especially our new sterling silver decorative clips in raw, sculptural shapes. The other standouts include a star-shaped pendant and charm in black oxidized silver, an alluring finish that runs through the collection.

Summer

Trends

By Robert Salvatore

If one wants to pull out an adventurous look, luckily the latest industry predictions for this summer show that designers have opted for colors on the opposite side of the color spectrum. This summer is in for vivid, bright, and lively colors. So how can anyone go wrong throwing on a amethyst ring, or a aquamarine one. Even a black diamond ring can throw off anyone’s outfit. Colors are in for this season. Citrine earrings, blue topaz earrings, aquamarine earrings, pink sapphires, and smoky topaz earrings can really brighten up your wardrobe, and you will definitely fall into this season’s latest trend. Gems are also always enriched with deep and vivid colors, and all of these mentioned colors and jewelry are available. Remember bright colors are going to make you pop, and there is no problem looking dazzling this summer.

Another popular trend this season, are the neutral colors that play the backbone for all other colors to play on. These nude hues leave an honest vibe that makes anyone relaxed, calm, and approachable. Even gold is trending in this style. Any type of gold chain, ring, or earrings, can give someone a relaxed style, and also look very trendy for this season. Smoky Topaz earrings would be a great example to following this trend. The light brown gives a haze to one’s look, looking fresh and ready for spring! You can also mix up your look with a garnet and diamond mixed earring, giving you a fresh look, which is parallel 108 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

to the neutral colors giving off this season. Going for a subtler look? No one can go wrong having a white diamond ring. A regular diamond can give off your presence in a classy and even a flirtatious way. If diamonds are not your thing, throw on a classic pearl necklace. Everyone should have at least one pearl necklace in their jewelry box. Having a simple necklace around your neck won’t do you wrong either. Speaking of patterns, big bold prints such as tropical themes and jungle prints are back. This year is no exception. Color is back, and black is out, at least for now. Last year, brown was the new black, and this year it is muted silver and grey that's all the rage when you want to opt for a non-color. What about shoes, you ask? Pumps are HOT! Not that they ever really went out of style, but they certainly came second to the flip flop, the ballet slipper, and other such cutesy flat footwear, along with the rounded toe pump. Also noteworthy is what's in store for later on in the season. This season proves to be an interesting and eclectic mix of styles. This may seem contradictory, but the feminine nature of the season's styles pulls from flowing fabrics and cuts and seems to just use a hint of metal accessory - and it's a hit!

HAUTE HIPPIE Metallic color-blocked cardigan, viscose/nylon/polyester, black (with nude), $375. ‘Gypsy’ polka-dot blouse, silk, black (with nude), $275. Lace shorts, Mylar with silk lining, antique ivory, $225. All in Savvy at Nordstrom and nordstrom.com. FOCUS of SWFL 2014 109

KATE MOSS

TOPSHOP

Cocktail Hour is flirtatious and sexy with hemlines either slashed at the thigh or falling to the floor. The intentional vintage effects, opulent trims and detailing such as cobweb beadwork, sequin bead fringing and crepe satin splicing, all provide a delicate and deluxe element to the designs. Tailoring Noir introduces a beautiful selection of tailoring including tuxes and trouser suits in black and black gold metallic mixes, a bias cut liquid metallic lame dress and lame floral printed shirts - offering a chic, smart alternative to dressing up for a summer evening. Kate's growing up as a designer is reflected in this more premium collection introduces the use of luxurious fabrics, including silk chiffons sourced in London Soho, gold lame from Italy and intricate lace from India. Also upping the luxury quota is the meticulous attention spent on trimmings and details, including hand stitching and beading. This culminates in a densely hand-beaded dress that will be available exclusively at Topshop.com and Net-a-Porter.com.

Kate Moss and TOPSHOP are excited to launch their spring/ summer 2014 collection, an eclectic mix of pieces encapsulating the British fashion icon's unique and revered vintage style. Firmly set apart from her previous Kate Moss TOPSHOP collections, Kate has worked hard with the TOPSHOP design and buying teams to deliver this much updated and more premium collection - re-affirming her unrivalled position as THE true British fashion icon. Sold globally in all TOPSHOP stores and online at Topshop.com, new and first time retail partners for this collection will include Nordstrom stores, Nordstrom.com and Net-a-Porter.com. Key design categories for this collection begin with Balearic Dressing, a reflection of Kate's love for the Balearic Islands comes a series of carefully embroidered smock-tops; silk blouses and a white kaftan that is based on a vintage find she wears every summer. The bold Aztecs dress has a handmade feel and the heavily embroidered crochet lace dresses, which either skim the thigh or the ankle, are available in cream or black. Pajama dressing adds a totally new element to the Kate Moss TOPSHOP range. Silk satin sourced in London's Soho carries two distinct prints: a subtle, distorted floral design and a vivid Oriental-inspired flower pattern. Both prints will be available in high-waisted trousers, blouses and an ultimate pajama coat. 110 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Making the collection "More Kate" items based on Kate's wardrobe has been joined by vintage-inspired pieces that she herself finds difficult to find when shopping in second hand stores, because the lace is either ripped or sequins are falling off. So it was important to Kate that these items were added to her collection this season.

"My first collection was seven years ago and I have grown up since then and things that I want to wear are different. It is a natural evolvement. I learnt a lot from my experience the first time around, so I didn't come in blind this time - I knew the process. Phillip (Green) has taught me a lot throughout doing these collections which is so valuable and I now have a more extensive knowledge across many areas of design, buying, fabrication and achieving different levels of quality." Kate Moss. The butter-soft suede found in this collection, Kate felt offered a more lightweight choice over leather for summer; and a change from denim. The weave waistcoat is a real statement piece and epitomizes Kate's Seventies wardrobe staples. The suede "runner" shorts, available in olive and black, carry a tiny braid detail down the sides, again stepping up the deluxe element for spring/summer. And the deep blue coloured fringed jacket references one she has worn to three Rolling Stones concerts and refers to as her "gig jacket".

www.nordstrom.com

"I love the whole process of designing, from hanging out with the girls in the design team, building the concept, getting excited about seeing the various stages of sampling, making tweaks and improvements and then seeing the final collection coming together".

Kate Moss.

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Making It

Fit

By Samantha Ramos

Our favorite season of the year is here, with long days, fresh flowers, fireworks, beach visits, music festivals, pool parties, ice cream, naps in the sun and tan lines. Summer brings inspiration and another start to something new. For a lot of us, we like to step out and sit along our pool deck or head out to the beach for a fun filled day with friends or family. Even that morning cruise along our shores. Well before you head out, are your swimsuits in order? When was the last time you taken a look at them, hopefully not faded or too out of date. I know how difficult it can be to find that perfect swimsuit. Looking though racks of colors, thinking is this for me? It sometimes feels like a quest, maybe that is why I bring my girl friends along, without the swords, shield and magic spells. So what makes sense when selecting a swim suit? Is it the material, color, style or cut that makes the grade? This is dependent on you and your own chic sense. The right fit and shape is essential to being comfortable and looking good. I believe you should stay within the basic rules and having options is key to owning more than one swimsuit is essential. Then get a knowledgeable sales person to help you along your quest. From there you can experiment with fun colors and patterns. After all you are trying to look your best, when you are having a great time in the sun. Pick swimwear to bring out your best asset; while minimizing others. Example, like to minimize your midsection, look to a tankini in a solid color. I think their great due to the new designs and how it can be easy to mix and match them. Are you slender? Then how about a two piece, they come in very exotic styles and colors as well. Have a large bottom-half select a one piece or even a full coverage brief, no stripes, look for solids and maybe some simple prints. It is important to note that first you must be comfortable; you don’t need a swimsuit that is too tight in the bust or bottom. No matter what your body type or select a style which works best for you. A good fitting swimsuit makes a statement. It shouldn’t ride up, move around, bunch up, or get caught in places it shouldn’t. As you test drive a car, do the same when hunting for swimwear, jump up and down, swat, bend and twist. If it doesn’t move, you will have a swimsuit that you can relax and play confidently in. 112 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

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Vasi Callas

By Marisa Honig

Launched in February 2014, by local resident Vasi Callas, VASI scarves are unique in shape and sizes as well as the prints are each original, vibrant distinctive works of art. The current collection consists of 9 Signature â&#x20AC;&#x153;Vâ&#x20AC;? print designs, a core belief of the collection is that fashion is art in motion. Sized to be worn in a vast array of ways, the scarves are sophisticated, versatile and season less, making this a perfect accessory to take daytime work to nighttime chic. VASI scarves are made from the finest 100% Italian silk twill available in Como, Italy. The design detail, from the touch of the silk fabric, to the beautiful prints, to the hand sewn rolled hems exhibits the superior quality that is inherent to every VASI scarf. Additionally, VASI represents the marriage of fashion and philanthropy. For every scarf sold a portion of the proceeds goes to providing inspiration to those who are facing challenging times, with the focus on women going through cancer treatments.

www.vasimoda.com 114 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

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Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going island-hopping or having a conversation about all things sunny and sexy. A twist on sultry seaside style; inspired by glamorous starlets and their chic escapes to the most luxurious destinations in the world. Could you blame us? We're in chooseyour-own-adventure Turks & Caicos with the hottest bikinis under the sun. This is paradise, living each day more glamorously than the last with the sexiest swimsuits. As Victoria's Secret Angels celebrate the sexiest new shapes and styles that show off a woman's curves. For turning heads at the beach or favorite local. Victoria's Secret, the ultimate destination for the sexiest, most fashionable swimsuits of the season.

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Photography by BUT SOU LAI & PAMU

Candice - Beach sexy halter bikini FOCUS of SWFL 2014 117

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Healthier, Happier Hair!

By Allison Stephens

Hair should be every woman’s best accessory, but at its worst, it’s frizzy, dull, dry, and well—pretty much a nightmare! Fortunately, there are easy fixes for healthier hair. Spending five minutes to optimize your grooming routine can leave hair silky smooth, perfectly coifed, or softly curled. We’ve roundup five tips and a few products to help you quickly revive locks and restore them to their proper glory: • Tip #1: Seal and Repair Hair Cuticles. Are you overdosing on shampoo? Over shampooing with the wrong products can strip hair’s natural oils, drying and weakening hair cuticles. Your hair cuticles are the outermost layer of the hair shaft, and are responsible for locking in moisture. pH balanced shampoos, like Sebamed Everyday Shampoo ($12.99, SebamedUSA.com), can help revive, close and seal the cuticles. Formulated with a new generation surfactant blend, the shampoo’s moisture retaining properties penetrate the structure of the hair shaft, adding volume and silky shine. • Tip #2: Choose a “Flake-Free” Diet. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, iron and protein can lead to a healthier, happier scalp. Since about 3 % of your hair shaft is made up of omega-3 fatty acids, they’re vital to keeping you scalp hydrated. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in foods like walnuts, almonds, tuna and salmon. • Tip #2: Tame Frizz. Instead of loading your hair with oily serums and fly-away tamers, try styling with hair tools that produce ionic heat – a proven frizz fighter. Ionic products like Rowenta Beauty’s Inspiration Pro™ Auto Sensor™ Hair Dryer ($159.99, Ulta.com) lock in moisture, keeping your tresses hydrated and resistant to breakage, which also gives you that coveted salon-quality shine. • Tip #3: Promote New Growth, Naturally. When trying to grow out your hair its important to trim split ends. Also, giving yourself a gentle scalp massage for 10 minutes 2-3 times a week in the shower can loosen skin flakes, product residue, and natural oils, and increase blood flow to the scalp to help promote new hair growth. • Tip #4: Restore Life to Your Hair. Do you color your hair, straighten it a few times a week or use a lot of hair spray? Adding chemicals, applying heat or using products are habits that we all find hard to kick, and can come with some unwanted side effects. Luckily, hair masks like Repêchage Hydra-Amino® 18 Hair Spa Seaweed Mask ($55, Repechage.com) work to restore and nourish hair from scalp to tip for dramatically smoother, more youthful looking hair. Apply it in the shower 1-2 times weekly or leave in overnight for a deep treatment. Formulated with select seaweed plants, this treatment works to repair stressed out tresses, strengthen damaged and chemically treated hair, and protect it from further damage.

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Urban Mystique By Rebecca Winship

Alus may be eighteen, but she definitely doesn’t look nor sound the part. At a glimpse, Alus is a passionate, sophisticated, and talented young woman with a big voice and the ability to play and write her own music. From a suburban town in New Jersey, Alus grew up with a strong connection to music. It was evident that Alus was a star from a young age, as she would entertain her family with radio hits by singing and choreographing routines. Alus’ musical bloodline runs deep. Her grandmother, a Juilliard graduate, was once a renowned musician in the Violinaires, a group of violinists that regularly performed with Frank Sinatra’s The Rat Pack. Alus’ father was also a drummer and trumpeter. Singing since she was able to talk, Alus would sing melodic lines that were too good for a child. At age four, Alus started performing on stage. Her training in musical theater seasoned her performances and led her to vocal training classically in opera at eleven years old with a Curtis Institute of Music instructor. Alus has always tapped away on the baby grand piano in her parent’s living room, creating songs by ear.

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Knowing she would love to accompany herself, she was placed in classical piano lessons as well. Her musical abilities don’t stop there, as she is also a self-taught guitarist. Alus was also accepted into Berklee College of Music. Alus’ performances vary from national anthem performances to venues in New York City. Alus has sung the national anthem for nationally televised professional boxing matches and for the prosoccer team D.C. United, the most successful team in major league soccer history. Alus loves to showcase her large vocal range in pop music influenced through retro soul, making for a unique and interesting sound. Alus lists influences as Billie Holiday, Judy Garland, Whitney Houston, Pat Benatar, Aretha Franklin, Elton Jon, and Mariah Carey. Alus is set to embark on a long journey that she will share with the world into stardom. The plan has been mapped out for Alus’ arrival into the music industry and you can expect big things from this new artist.

Stylist's Expertise

By Gen Bell

With Tax season ending, many of us want to treat ourselves after a hardworking year, do a little spring cleaning, and update our wardrobe for summer. Well, don’t blow your tax refund on clothes without reading these money saving tips! Wardrobe stylist Gen Bell offers great money saving tips for tax season, spring cleaning, and for throughout the year. 1. Have a set budget! Having a set budget on how much you’d like to spend is key. Everyone has different methods that work best for him or her. Some people prefer to use cash so that they can see exactly how much they’re spending and on what. My personal method is to create a budget first, let’s say $100. Then I figure out how many outfits I’d like to have from the $100, let’s say 4 outfits. Then I start window-shopping and comparing prices from different stores. I always check both online and in actual stores. Often times you’ll find the best mark down prices online! 2. Hit the Discount Stores You can find stylish bargains at stores like T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, and DSW. Designer duds for a fraction of the price! But be careful, just because a store is inexpensive doesn't mean you'll save any money if you over spend. Learn control. 3. Learn to Do-it-Yourself Learning how to make a few, simple alterations can save you lots of money down the line. Master the basics of sewing, replacing buttons, and hemming pants. If you’re a busy professional like most of us, then find a local seamstress in your neighborhood that can make the simple alterations for you. The point is to have you clothes last you for a long time. So if you loose a couple of pounds and can’t fit those jeans anymore, make the necessary alterations so that you can reincorporate those jeans back into your wardrobe. 4. Shop Out of Season Seasoned shoppers shop for spring and summer items in the fall, and buy your fall and winter looks when spring rolls around. Clothing is always cheaper when they are out of season. 5. Avoid Impulse Shopping or Emotional Shopping Many of us can’t fight the urge to impulse buy. Remind yourself when the urge arises, are these shoes worth it right at this moment? Do not buy the shoes, wait a couple of days and if you still want them and rationalize your need then buy them.

6. Think About What’s Already in Your Closet When shopping, build a wardrobe around one or two color families that you already have. Keep your current wardrobe in mind when you shop, and don't buy anything that won't go with at least two or three other items that you own. 7. Take Care of Your Clothing Caring for your clothes will help them last longer. Use the right amount of detergent, avoid the dryer when possible and hang and fold clothes properly. Pack your seasonal wardrobe! You don’t need your winter clothes hanging in your closet all summer long. Pack them in air tight containers that are designed to keep the moisture out and your clothes fresh! 8. Shop Vintage and Consignment Fashion is cyclical! Trends from the past always make a comeback so don’t shy away from vintage and consignment shops. Sell you old clothes to make room for the new! It may take longer to find exactly what you are looking for at a used clothing store so you must have patience and bring a friend for a fun movie montage. 9. Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize No outfit is complete without the right accessories. Take a simple dress and accessorize it in different ways to create completely different looks each time! This will expand your wardrobe without having to buy a new outfit for every occasion.

About Gen Bell: Wardrobe stylist and creative director, Gen Bell is the true embodiment of a career girl in every aspect. Bell was born in Chicago and is currently styling key individuals in the South Florida community in film, fashion and music. Bell has worked one on one with designers, boutiques, production companies, models and more. As a previous writer for Haute Living, Gen Bell has an impressive resume for a newbie. With a portfolio centered on beauty, video, celebrity/music, and street-chic styling, Bell has a vast knowledge of creating an aesthetically pleasing composition. Working with color palettes, silhouettes, and design, Gen Bell pulls together elements and principles to create a final “product” which sets apart from the rest.

www.genbell.com 124 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Tips to Help Prevent Drowning

Photo courtesy of United States Swim School Association

By Laura Baumgartner

Parents should begin water safety with kids at 6 months Drowning is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. On average, 3,533 people die as a result of drowning each year, and most of those deaths are children under the age of four who drown in backyard swimming pools. The tragedy of these statistics is nearly all drowning deaths are preventable. To help educate children, parents, families and swim instructors on preventive measures to avoid a drowning incident, US Swim School Association (USSSA), the preeminent swim school organization in the country, has compiled the latest life-saving water safety and swim instruction tips for National Water Safety Month in May. There are several standard water safety precautions recommended to parents including: keeping children under constant supervision, enrolling children in swimming lessons, knowing CPR, having pool fences and barriers installed. In addition to these vital steps, USSSA has created a list of tips parents can use to build extra layers of protection for their children around water. For more information on USSSA, details on becoming a member of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading swim school organization, or to find a USSSA affiliated swim school near you, visit:

www.usswimschool.org 126 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Drowning Prevention & Water Safety Tips • Create a verbal cue for your toddler or child that must be given by you before he or she can enter the pool. • Never allow your baby/toddler in the pool without a swim diaper. • Create a process the child must go through before entering a pool such as putting on a swim diaper, a swimsuit and applying sunscreen. • Never use floatation devices or water wings when swimming or when teaching kids to swim. • Children should learn to swim without goggles. Teach your children to open their eyes under water; if they fall in they can find the side of the pool or a step and get out safely. • For very young children practice having them put their entire face under water in the bathtub and blow bubbles to build their comfort with water. • Create a water safety plan for your family and have water emergency drills with your kids covering how to recognize the signs of someone struggling in water and what to do in this type of emergency. • Make sure your guests and kids’ friends know your pool rules before they go outside and get in the pool. • Start swim lessons at 6 months of age and continue them year-round at a US Swim School member location. • Always make sure your children wear life jackets on boats, personal watercraft and in open bodies of water.

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Getting

Paradise That Piece of

By Diane VanArsdale

On a recent vacation to Cape Coral, Florida, a hidden gem near Fort Myers, a Switzerland couple was enjoying the tropical weather, boating, and other “fun-inthe-sun” activities, when they met Caprice, a German native real estate agent who would soon touch their lives forever. After a brief introduction through a mutual friend, Caprice immediately connected with this couple; after all they were from neighboring countries. She discovered they were both very interested in interior design, so she invited them to tour Team Aubuchon’s model home, The Mandolin, to give them a taste of interior design, Florida style. The Mandolin model is situated on The Mandolin canal, only minutes away from the Caloosahatchee River, the gateway to some of the world’s most renowned beaches. It is a chic, coastal home, boasting a unique nautical design theme throughout, with an outdoor living area sure to amaze even the most discerning buyer. Once our Swiss couple set eyes on the incredible resort-style pool, with its unique waterfall and enchanting firewall, they were hungry to know more about investing in the States. Caprice assured them investing in real estate is very different here – in fact, it is a much easier process, and with the right company, can be a very rewarding experience. They had not even thought about building a home as an investment until Caprice began to explain how it works: She would guide them through the process of building, making their selections, utilizing it as a vacation rental, and when the time is right, list the home. At that point, they made the decision to move forward, even though they would not be here during the building process – they would be making decisions from back home in Switzerland. Prior to leaving, Caprice took time to get to know their likes, dislikes, personalities, and what is important to them, so she could get a clear picture of their goals and help them choose the best location to build. She introduced them to Team Aubuchon’s in house architectural design team who would ultimately design their home to take full advantage of their chosen waterfront, Gulf access lot.

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Throughout the next few months, our Swiss couple communicated with the construction team, collaborating on ideas to get the perfect design for their Florida home. Communication took place and decisions were made using todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technology, from Skype, email, videos, photos, and phone calls. The process was simple! The only trip they made to the states was to make selections for their home, which took place all in one location â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the main office of Team Aubuchon. Once the construction team took over, they received daily updates from their superintendent, who was overseeing the build. They even had the cell number of their superintendent so they could call at any time with questions. The Designers from Evalutions by Aubuchon, the interior design firm under the umbrella of Team Aubuchon, partnered with our couple to create a unique interior design theme. Our couple had no idea how easy this journey would be.

Photos by Doug Thompson

Once construction was complete, Caprice placed the home in a structured vacation rental program, where tenants would be screened properly prior to placing them in the home. The result? An extraordinary success! So much so, they are now listing their home with Caprice, and preparing to build another investment home.

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About Team Aubuchon Southwest Florida has become THE vacation destination for so many visitors from all over the world. Team Aubuchon’s customers include people from around the world, who built their dream home from thousands of miles away. They are proud to have an extended family of Raving Fans who originate from Canada, Norway, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Australia, The United Kingdom, and all over the Unites States. From Key West style, Old Florida Style to the Tropical Mediterranean look, Modern Contemporary, Tuscan Revival, Georgian Revival, European influences, and California Mission, they custom build your home the way you want it. They specialize in marrying the design of your home with the size and shape of the lot you have chosen to take full advantage of the views of SW Florida! Their in-house architectural designers have created more than 200 custom homes from just an initial idea from the homeowner. All you have to do is imagine... and they’ll take it from there. Team Aubuchon’s unique advantage is the ability to offer a one-stop real estate experience. Their team has the insight and expertise to work in your best interest, and deliver the perfect real estate solution, giving you the ultimate Aubuchon experience. They are committed to doing whatever it takes to help their clients get what they want, need, and deserve when it comes to their real estate and building related needs. Whether you are looking to build, buy, sell, rent, invest, today is the day to take a closer look at how they can make your goals a reality. Cape Coral is SW Florida’s” Venice” with hundreds of miles of canals and waterfront properties, offering amazing views! And with quick access to Caribbean-like islands, i.e. Sanibel, Captiva, Matlacha, Pine Island, and Fort Myers Beach, it doesn’t get much better than this! When you’re ready to escape from the cold and build your dream home in this tropical wonderland, contact Caprice Krumsick, 239.677.7141, or ckrumsick@teamaubuchon.com.

www.TEAMAUBUCHON.com

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This extraordinary new custom AUBUCHON home was built in 2013 and is currently on the market, offered turnkey at $1,590,000. Interior design influences originate from Switzerland and are in partnership with Evalutions by Aubuchon Interior Designers. This home is located in the desirable Southwest area of Cape Coral with its estate villas and endless views over the beautiful nature preserves. Start your boat trips to world renowned beaches from your backyard with quick gulf access, no bridges. Enjoy a full day of sun and beautiful sunsets with the Southern and Western rear exposure of this estate. With spectacular preserve views along the beautiful Spreader, this oasis will help you regenerate and renew. Feel the tranquility from the moment you enter this 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, spacious 2-story villa - plenty of space for family and friends. This floor plan offers family and living rooms, dining, chef's kitchen, oversized laundry with natural light, impact windows and an oversized 3 car garage. Remotely-controlled fabric hurricane shutters offer a double-function as sun blinds and a windbreaker, providing all the luxury needed on the patio and lanai areas. Refreshing pool and spa, boat dock, Captains walk and spacious deck area to relax, sunbathe or fish. Enjoy the quality and functions of a new build home immediately. Just bring your flip flops and begin one of many sunshine filled days in beautiful Southwest Florida.

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Room-to-Room

Additions When considering a home renovation, think outside the box for design inspiration and setting the overall tone. With homeowners staying in their homes longer due to the economy, renovations should focus on usability and personal style. For those homeowners looking to sell, the market is still very much a buyer’s space, so quality additions that increase value are certainly top of mind. Luckily, there’s no need knock down walls or move plumbing to make an impact – simply start with small, quality updates to pack a dramatic punch for less money. Here are some ways to add quality and comfort within the different spaces of your home: Entryway As the first thing visitors see, your front door should always provide a good impression, reflecting the beauty that emanates throughout your home. With doors, matching the exterior and interior creates a flow into outdoor living spaces. Using doors as a part of the overall aesthetic can also allow for some creativity with glass accents or bold color choices. Choose a reliable door manufacturer, such as Masonite, that offers a wide breadth of finishes and styles using wood, steel and fiberglass. Living Room Add decorative touches to your living room with repurposed items found around the house. Fill a decorative pitcher or an old tin watering can with fresh flowers from the garden to add elegance to your coffee table. Wrap assorted globe lighting fixtures or mason jars with wire and hang them in a grouping to display votive candles. For an eclectic and shabby chic feel, turn a vintage drawer on end to use as a bookshelf or bring in an old wooden crate to use as a side table. Kitchen Refreshing your kitchen doesn’t require a major update. Add a new color to existing cabinetry by refinishing or addinga new coat of paint. Would you like to add a glossy shine to the kitchen? Simply apply mesh-back glass tile to fit the dimensions of cabinet door panels. Finish the update with a modern touch by replacing outdated hardware with the many new, stylish options available.

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Bathroom From tiles and countertops to faucets and showerheads, the options are endless for bathroom updates. With wall-hung, standalone or pedestal styles, your choices for a new vanity are no exception. During a renovation, some homeowners begin their project by focusing on other bathroom elements like those mentioned above. But starting with the addition of a new vanity, like one of the many beautiful options from Ronbow, will set the stage for your bathroom and provide a focal point for the other design elements. Rooms throughout From the master bedroom to the hall entryway, hardwood floors provide the ultimate in beauty and ambiance. Refinishing gives your existing tired, worn out floors an instant upgrade that shines from room to room. By focusing on a few quality updates, you can add beauty and comfort to your home to be enjoyed for many years or add value in a competitive housing market. For more design ideas and tips, visit www.ronbow.com or www.masonite.com.

OutDoor Living

Located in Sarasota, FL., Select Furnishings is the ultimate furniture destination for highend designs at a reasonable price point. The chic pieces offer a variety of commercial grade rattan indoor and outdoor furniture. Constructed from a powder coated thicker aluminum framework and bond welded for a strong and durable final product, Select Furnishings offers reputable pieces that combine functionality and trend. With Sunbrella Premium fabric as a partner, Select Furnishings is renowned for having the most durable furniture product on the market today. Select Furnishings understands the importance of clientele and customer service, and

guarantees a one-of-a-kind purchasing experience. Their aim is to be able to deliver their items to their customers within 10 working days of ordering and provide a friendly and efficient service. With pieces ranging from sofa sets, dining sets, loungers, day beds, Sunbrella outdoor sets and more, Select Furnishings provides quality service, warranties and high-quality product at a great price. Those looking to revamp their space or add a new statement piece within their room can now do so without hurting their wallet with Select Furnishingsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; quality products. For additional information, please visit the location at 3333 Clark Rd. Sarasota, FL. 34231.

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Enhance your pool with rock water features.

Waterfalls - Stack and Veneered Stone on Spas - Coping - Decks - Planters & Fire Pits - Steps - Walls - Driveways & Patios

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Wet-Rock Innovations

wetrockinnovations@gmail.com FOCUS of SWFL 2014 133

Transform Small Spaces

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In home listings across the country, the word small is often replaced with a far more marketable and appealing word: “charming.” But what makes a home charming compared to small? How does a homeowner transition a cramped room into a space with unique and appealing character? Focusing on a few key areas will let you make a big impact in a little space, allowing you to create a charming and memorable environment. For starters, when dealing with a small space, it’s important to live clutter free. Make sure that only mandatory items and furniture are in the room. Create special spaces and storage Lorie Marrero, a certified professional organizer and author of “The Clutter Diet,” recommends carefully considering the functions of any space, such as TV viewing, reading or computer use, so that only the items needed for those specific functions are stored there. Understanding how this space is utilized also allows you to establish dedicated zones and supplies for each activity more efficiently. In addition, Marrero notes that creating proper storage is the key to managing and maintaining a clutter-free home. “Even if large closets aren’t available, there are a number of versatile and affordable DIY products that help create storage where there wasn’t any. ClosetMaid’s wide assortment of products can help transform any room of the home simply by allowing people to truly utilize the space they have.”

Make it larger with lighting Clearing a small home of its clutter will automatically make it seem larger. However, the illusion of more space can also be enhanced with proper lighting. The right lighting will also play a big role in helping create a more charming feel. Recessed lighting is visually appealing and perfect for small spaces. Torchiere lights can help bounce light off the ceiling and back down to the room. If the room does not have windows, consider adding a skylight to bring character and light to the space. You can also affect a room’s lighting with low-cost or no-cost solutions that make the most of the space’s built-in features. For example, highlight the windows, don’t cover them. If the room has a fireplace, emphasize it. Add charming details Woodwork is another simple embellishment that adds instant character and charm without affecting usable space. A chair rail, crown molding or even baseboards can help take a standard room and outline it with interesting architectural elements. In a small area, intricate woodwork can serve as a main focal point or art, giving the space exceptional appeal that won’t be easily forgotten. By managing clutter, using lighting to create bright and airy spaces and incorporating simple architectural elements, you can easily transform a cramped area into a charming and inviting room that you – or a potential buyer – can enjoy.

www.ClosetMaid.com 1-800-874-0008 134 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

PHYSICIANS’ PRIMARY CARE NEW MEDICAL OFFICE

Ground-Breaking for the new Lehigh Acres office of Physicians’ Primary Care of Southwest Florida. Pictured left to right: Dr. Sarah DiGiorgi of Physicians’ Primary Care of Southwest Florida; Dean Martin of TDM Consulting, Inc.; Dr. Mary Yankaskas of Physicians’ Primary Care of Southwest Florida; Fort Myers Mayor Randy Henderson; Dr. Nuel Celebrado of Physicians’ Primary Care of Southwest Florida; Lyndon Pollock of Burt Hill/Pollock Krieg Architects; Mark Stevens of Stevens Construction; Dr. Michael Verwest of Physicians’ Primary Care of Southwest Florida; and Dr. John Bartlett of Physicians’ Primary Care of Southwest Florida. Physicians’ Primary Care of Southwest Florida, the largest independent multi-specialty practice in Southwest Florida, has broken ground for a new 10,580 square foot medical office that will consolidate their Lehigh Acres offices into one location. The new office will be located at 5700 Lee Boulevard and will incorporate family medicine, obstetrics and gynecology and pediatrics. Those offices currently are located at 3507 Lee Boulevard and 5624 8th Street W and will continue to operate at those locations until construction is completed sometime this fall. Fort Myers Mayor Randy Henderson participated in the March 24 ground-breaking along with Dr. Mary Yankaskas, Dr. John Bartlett, Dr. Nuel Celebrado, Dr. Sarah DiGiorgi and Dr. Michael Verwest of Physicians’ Primary Care of Southwest Florida. Also participating were builder Mark Stevens of Stevens Construction, architect Lyndon Pollock of Burt Hill/Pollock Krieg Architects, Dean Martin of TDM Consulting, Inc., and Roger Scharlau of Busey Bank. “These new quarters will allow us to bring our Lehigh Acres offices -- pediatrics, obstetrics, gynecology and family medicine -- all under one roof to accommodate the growth in patients. Our patients also will have better access to care and more efficient care from this Lee Boulevard location,” said Dr. Yankaskas, managing physician of Physicians’ Primary Care of Southwest Florida. 136 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

The new office will be ideally situated to serve patients in both Lehigh Acres and Fort Myers because of its easy access from both communities, Yankaskas said. The new facility will include 18 exam rooms, six nurses’ stations, six physicians’ offices and an ultrasound room. In addition to the six physicians, the new office will house about 20 employees. Physicians who will practice at the new building include Dr. John Bartlett (pediatrics), Dr. Nuel Celebrado (pediatrics), Dr. Anita Del Bianco (ob-gyn), Dr. Sarah DiGiorgi (obgyn), Dr. Aparna Eligeti, (ob-gyn), Dr. Eric W. Jones (pediatrics), Dr. Annabelle Martin (pediatrics), Dr. Kathleen Shimp (ob-gyn), Dr. Michael Verwest (family medicine) and Dr. Stanley Wiggins (pediatrics). Physicians’ Primary Care of Southwest Florida, a physician-owned and operated medical practice, was formed in 1996 by many long practicing local physicians and has grown to become the largest independent multi-specialty primary care practice in Southwest Florida with more than 45 physicians and medical professionals. Medical specialties include internal medicine, family medicine, pediatrics and obstetrics and gynecology. Offices are conveniently located in Lehigh Acres, Fort Myers and Cape Coral.

www.ppcswfl.com

By Susan Bennett

Have a Bountiful Garden

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The benefits of having your own backyard vegetable garden are plentiful, and can include significant lifestyle impacts, such as healthier eating habits, money saving perks and more. A Relaxing, Healthful Hobby Looking for a hobby that allows you to contribute to the health of your family? Take up gardening. Beyond producing nutritious foods, it can help you teach your family about local agriculture, all while basking in the tranquility of the great outdoors. Though starting your own home garden can be intimidating, there are a few simple steps to get you started. Once developed, it can yield fruits and vegetables from early spring and into the fall. 1) Do Some Research Find out what vegetables grow best in your area and when is the right time to plant and harvest. Many local university extension programs have this information readily available online. For each plant, consider the amount of water needed, how much sunlight is required and if it should be started from seed or a transplanted seedling. 2) Choose a Good Spot Keep in mind vegetables need at least six hours of sun each day, so plant away from the shade of buildings, trees and shrubs. Planting close to your house may make you more likely to bring your harvest right into your kitchen, and will help you remember to weed and water. Including rain and irrigation, your garden needs at least one inch of water per week. Make sure you can easily access a water supply nearby. Some products, such as an Ames NeverLeak hose reel, provide convenient hose storage and can easily reach all parts of your yard. Be sure to choose a level area of your yard so when watering it will not pool in lower areas.

3) Clear the Area Use your garden hose or a string to mark the area for proper placement of your garden. Use a sod lifter or garden spade, keeping the area level and removing as little topsoil as possible. Next, use a round point shovel, such as the True Temper True American Round-Point Shovel, to dig into the soil about 12 inches, breaking it up and removing clumps. To encourage proper drainage and escape light freezes in early spring and fall, construct a raised bed by creating a border with wood slats and filling in with soil. 4) Prepare the Soil Use a rake to create a smooth finish and remove debris or stones on the surface. You may want to add manure, compost or soil additives to provide additional nutrients in the soil. 5) Plant Your Seeds Determine if you will be starting your plants from seeds or transplanting small seedlings. Be sure to research how much room each plant will need and plot the layout of your garden. Dig V-shaped furrows using a warren hoe or the edge of a garden hoe. Carefully distribute the seeds in the furrows evenly and in accordance with the instructions on the seed packet. Cover the seeds and pat down gently, then water thoroughly. Use this information for a fruitful harvest this gardening season.

www.AmesTrueTemper.com

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 137

Outside Comfort an extension of your home

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The arrival of summer, along with its sunny skies and beautiful weather, beckons homeowners to create a space to entertain guests and enjoy the great outdoors. Design an outdoor living room that merges style and function, and incorporates elements of indoor comfort. New offerings in decor and design breathe indoor inspiration into your outdoor spaces, creating a beautiful extension of your home for all to enjoy. “It’s easier than ever to bring the comfort and style of your favorite indoor spaces into your porch, patio and other outdoor areas,” said Aimee Beatty, in-house stylist with Pier 1 Imports. “From comfy throw pillows to trendy rugs, colorful artwork and cheery curtains, new outdoor products boast durability and so much style that your patio will be the neighborhood’s go-to summer hot spot.” Beatty shares some of her stylish secrets to make your outdoor space an elegant living space worth sharing. Arrange away Treat your outdoor area as you would your living room. If space is limited, use sectionals to create seating in whatever arrangement fits best. If there is more room, add an investment piece, such as the Echo Beach Dining Table from Pier 1 Imports. This high-quality piece is made from handcrafted, all-weather synthetic rattan and offers plenty of space to arrange chairs just as you would in your dining room. Finish the look by layering your favorite accessories, such as handcrafted trays, detailed lanterns and a colorful floral arrangement to create a cheerful centerpiece.

Tie it all together To let you in on a little secret — outdoor rugs tie everything together and really bring a space to life. Simply layer a rug, such as Pier 1 Imports’ chic Wavy Geo Rug, with a beautiful seating collection, colorful cushions and pillows, and you’ve got an outdoor area that makes everyone comfortable and happy. Embrace the bold Some might be afraid to create a statement outside because — it’s outside. But an outdoor living space lends itself to adventures with color and pattern, providing the opportunity to be bold and to go beyond your comfort zone. When shopping for the outdoors, remember — anything goes. Serve in style Al fresco entertaining always focuses on food, drinks and friends. A self-service food station or bar enhances the casual tone, freeing guests to grab refreshments whenever they please. This also allows you, the host, to focus on the fun at hand. Look for serving and drink carts that maximize space, such as the Rania Serving Cart from Pier 1 Imports, which has three levels so there’s plenty of room to stash an ice bucket, drink dispenser, snacks, lawn games and more. So let the warmth of the season bring many memorable moments to your life and stylish elements into your outdoor spaces.

www.pier1.com 138 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Looking For A Drop-Dead Gorgeous Swimming Pool That’s Also Maintenance-Free?

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Splash Family Pool Fun

Warmer weather brings leisurely days spent poolside with friends and family. As you get ready to dive in to another season of fun in the sun, remember that safety comes first. With more than 10 million residential pools across America, the opportunities for water recreation right at home are plentiful. But so, too, are the chances of water-related mishaps. According to the Centers for Disease Control, drowning is the fifth leading cause of unintentional injury death in the United States. Children are particularly at risk; one in five drowning victims is age 14 or younger. However, dedicating appropriate attention to your family pool’s maintenance and ensuring you have created an environment of safety will let you enjoy swimming and splashing with greater peace of mind. “Pools are a great source of enjoyment for families, and with proper supervision and care, the entire family can confidently dive in to hours of fun,” said Joe DeFuria, Brand Manager of BioGuard. “Taking time early in the season to brush up on this important information will help keep everyone safe all summer long.” The CDC cites “lack of swimming ability, lack of barriers to prevent unsupervised water access, lack of close supervision while swimming” as some of the leading risks associated with drowning. Preventive efforts such as learning to swim (or teaching swimming skills), ensuring at least one person with CPR training is present when the pool is in use and having proper safety devices (e.g., life vests and preservers) readily accessible help reduce injuries and accidents.

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Put these measures in place so you can enjoy the fun at hand, without the worry: 1. Designate a “lifeguard.” Always pick at least one responsible adult to monitor children at all times. 2. Know CPR: Before investing in a pool, be sure to take a CPR class. The faster CPR can be administered to a person in distress, the stronger the long-term outcome. 3. Keep your water clean: Pool safety also includes keeping the water clean and sanitary for your family. Invest in the proper tools, such as the pool care systems from BioGuard, to keep your waters crystal clear. 4. Enroll kids in swimming lessons: Teach the skill of swimming to children at a young age. Enroll kids in classes to learn the basics and avoid accidents. 5. Teach the parts of a pool: Show children where to locate the drains, pipes and other pool openings. Explain the importance of avoiding these areas while swimming as they can cause harm. 6. Keep an eye in the sky: Storms can strike at any time in the summer. Be aware of the current weather and the day’s forecast before you jump in for a swim. 7. Don’t rely on toys: Swimming noodles, inner-tubes and other inflatable pool toys do not take the place of a life jacket. 8. Keep a phone close: Always keep a cell phone or portable phone with you while supervising kids in the pool. 9. Keep your pool tidy: Keeping your pool toys and other clutter picked up after use will not only help prevent trip-and-fall accidents, it will also be less tempting for unwanted pool guests to engage in unsafe activities on your property. 10. Fence it up: Keep uninvited guests and potential accidents away from your pool property by installing a four-foot or taller fence along with a self-closing, self-latching gate.

140 FOCUS of SWFL 2014 Family Features

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Make a

Pool Maintenance Essentials Pool owners understand the importance of keeping it clean all season long. The experts at BioGuard provide these tips to keep your pool looking its best for family and guests: • Make waves. Constant water movement helps prevent bacteria and algae from growing and ensures that the pool sanitizer is evenly distributed throughout the entire pool. Circulating pool water during the day for at least 12 hours also helps the filter catch debris. • Check that filter. Backwash filters periodically and chemically clean filters a minimum of twice a season. • Scrub-a-dub. Brush and vacuum pool walls once a week, even if you use an automatic pool cleaner, or hire a service. • Test the waters. Every pool needs to be tested for the correct pH and sanitizer levels every week. Have a thorough water analysis performed by a professional every month. • Keep that water treatment going. The right water treatment plan will both maintain pool equipment and keep the water inviting. For instance, the SilkGuard Technology in BioGuard’s Silk sanitizer line makes pool water feel soft and smooth on skin while also preventing corrosion and protecting equipment. Pool Care Doesn’t Get a Vacation If a getaway is on your agenda this summer, plan ahead to ensure your pool is as pristine and inviting when you return as the day you leave.

The Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce Visitor Information Center

Work with a local pool care professional to create a vacation maintenance plan that matches your pool’s specific needs and takes into account how long you’ll be away. Before you leave, clean the pool thoroughly, brushing and vacuuming walls and floors. Test the water and correct any imbalances. Set the timer or enlist the help of a trusted friend or neighbor to ensure the pump runs a minimum of eight hours each day while you’re gone. Upon returning home, have a professional water analysis performed to ensure that your pool is properly balanced and ready for swimming. Saltwater Pools Are Making Waves Did you know saltwater pools are the hottest trend in new pool construction? According to an article from Pool and Spa News, today there are about 1.35 million saltwater pools in the United States. What’s the difference between chlorine and saltwater? While both pool types clean the water with chlorine, saltwater pools also require a salt generator cell and a stabilizer to keep waters properly sanitized. Why do customers choose saltwater over chlorine pools? Some feel saltwater is less harsh on the skin and eyes than traditional chlorine pools. However, saltwater pools require additional maintenance to avoid corrosion and to ensure chemical levels are in balance.

“

Our Guest Book says it all... Thank you! Helpful - got lots to read! Very helpful and friendly smiles! So pretty! See you next year! Very visitor friendly and lovely scenery! Help is fantastic! Danke! Just moved into an older home so thanks for the info on services to my home! OMG! Merci Beaucoup! Wonderfully warm and helpful individuals! Great service! I love Naples! Grazie! Our second visit here! Thanks for your valued advice! Excellent help from a local! Volunteer was a wonderful help! Awesome staff! We love it here! You’re great people! Very good advice and ideas! We want to live here! We’ll be back! Beautiful Center! Excited to be here! One of the nicest and prettiest Visitor Centers we’ve seen on our trip! I love Paradise! Fabulous place...wonderful people! Gracias! Wonderful information! Thanks for helping me find things to do for my grandchildren’s visit! Gorgeous!

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239.262.6141 www.napleschamber.org

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 141

Learning All Summer Long

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

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Lazy summer days may sound refreshing to parents, however, they may be detrimental to their children’s educational advancement. A study by Dr. Harris Cooper, a professor of psychology at the University of Missouri-Columbia, reveals that students can lose an average of one to three months of what they learned upon returning back to school after summer break. Parents can help their children avoid this “summer slide” by reinvigorating creativity, innovation and education during the summer. When you provide your kids with brain-stimulating experiences during the summer, you can help them to retain what they spent all year learning. This could help them begin the new school year with higher aptitude and give them a competitive educational edge. After all, knowledge is power. Brain-boosting activities When looking for activities for your kids during their break, think beyond the pool. There are many ways to get those brain juices flowing throughout the warmer weather months. Here are several engaging activities your kids will think are so fun they won’t even know they’re learning. Use books for family bonding A family book club is a great way to get in more bonding time while also encouraging a love of reading. The children’s section of the local library or bookstore is a great place to find books that also tie in scientific lessons. Kids will love digging into tales about dinosaurs, exploring new galaxies in space and reading about the biology of deep-sea creatures. Discuss any characters, plot and theme ideas in an interactive fashion that allows every family member to take part in a stimulating literary discussion. Celebrate the curious mind Does your child have a curious mind? Encourage inquisitiveness by enrolling them in a specialized summer camp, such as those offered by Camp Invention, which is supported by the United States Patent and Trademark Office with curriculum developed by inductees of the National Inventors Hall of Fame. Led by local educators, this weeklong experience immerses elementary school children in engaging real-world challenges where they can turn wonder into discoveries. Each themed module uses connections between science, technology, engineering and math to inspire innovation. Use your community’s resources Check your local museums, libraries and other community centers for classes, workshops and other great learning opportunities for your kids. Give them a journal to help them keep track of all the things that they are learning. Talk to their teachers Figure out what kind of lessons they will be covering in the upcoming school year and incorporate it into your summer schedule. For example, plan local field trips to historic monuments that they may be learning about in next year’s history class. 142 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Give them a journal Every child loves having a special spot to keep a record of their wonderful summer trips, times with friends and even drawings. Encourage them to keep a journal where they can tap into their scientific side by jotting down different discoveries — from tracking plant growth in the garden to drawing bugs in the backyard. Questions to Consider When Finding a Camp Many parents fondly look back on spending their own childhood summer days at camp. And because today’s camps offer a much larger spectrum of specialty programs, while also featuring a more individualized experience for youngsters, Camp Invention, a premier summer enrichment day camp program, suggests asking these questions to help select the perfect summertime program: • Does your child have special interests or talents that they would like to build on or develop? • Is your child willing to try or learn new things? • What goals do you have for your child while they attend summer camp? • How much can you afford for a camp program? Building Science Skills at Home Because science is everywhere, it’s easy to make every day a learning experience that inspires curiosity for your little one. Here are a few ways to incorporate this important subject into your family’s daily summer routine: Family Vacations Vacations are a great way to expand scientific knowledge through exploration. Point out the rock formations while visiting a national park, discuss animal tracks while taking a hike or check out the natural history museum in the town you are visiting. Current Events Use current newsworthy topics to start a science-related discussion with your kids. From weather patterns to erupting volcanoes, the news is full of curious discoveries for their expanding minds. Resource Collection Stock up on books, newspaper articles, puzzles, games, videos and other valuable learning tools that inspire science-related discoveries. Keep them in a centralized spot so your kids can access them at any time. It’s easy to break up the boredom of summer break with a few engaging activities that will get your kids off to a great start in the coming school year.

www.campinvention.org

Physicians’ Primary Care

TOP Doctors Six physicians with Physicians’ Primary Care of Southwest Florida have been named “Top Doctors” by Castle Connolly Medical Ltd. in New York.

Blaise Kovaz, MD

Family Medicine physician Charles Curtis, M.D., and Obstetrician/Gynecologists Heather Auld, M.D.; Paul Joslyn, M.D.; George Kovacevic, M.D.; Blaise Kovaz, M.D.; and Mary Yankaskas, M.D. will be featured in the June issue of Gulfshore Life magazine. It’s the ninth consecutive year that Drs. Auld and Yankaskas have been recognized as Top Doctors. Dr. Kovacevic is a repeat winner from 2012 and 2013. Dr. Curtis, Dr. Joslyn and Dr. Kovaz are repeat winners from last year.

Mary Yankaskas, MD

Photography by Inspired Images

Selections are made through a national survey of physicians and hospital administrators conducted by Castle Connolly, an independent research and information company that is the nation’s leading provider of information on top physicians. After the votes are tallied, Castle Connolly ensures that the physicians meet the company’s criteria, which include board certification, years of experience in their specialties, and a clean disciplinary record.

Heather Auld, MD

“Castle Connolly is widely recognized for its extensive research of the medical profession. This demonstrates to our patients that we have been evaluated and meet their highest standards,” said Dr. Yankaskas, who also is managing physician of Physicians’ Primary Care of Southwest Florida.

George Kovacevic, MD

Physicians’ Primary Care of Southwest Florida, a physicianowned and operated medical practice, was formed in 1996 by many long practicing local physicians and has grown to become the largest independent multi-specialty practice in Southwest Florida. Medical specialties include internal medicine, family practice, obstetrics, gynecology, and pediatrics. PPC’s 12 offices are conveniently located in Fort Myers, Cape Coral and Lehigh Acres. By Susan Bennett

Charles Curtis, MD

Paul Joslyn, MD FOCUS of SWFL 2014 143

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

Fres h Keep Your Home

Whether you’re inviting friends over for a dinner party or just want to make your abode a more comfortable environment for your family, battling tough odors can be quite a challenge. Avoid the short-lived results of covering up odors with fragrances, sprays and candles and spend your time and energy instead on getting to the root of the smelly problem.

From the basement to the attic and all the rooms in between, active families know keeping the air at home fresh is an ongoing battle. In fact, according to a recent survey conducted by Church & Dwight Co., Inc., maker of Arm & Hammer Cat Litter, 55 percent of cat owners have avoided or considered not inviting guests over because of the way their home smelled. The survey also revealed that more than 1 in 3 cat owners say litter box odors are more embarrassing for guests to notice than a clogged toilet. Tips to Make the Air Agreeable While keeping your home odor-free may sound like an impossible feat, there are ways to combat its unpleasant presence. Here are some simple ways to make your home welcoming for your family and anyone else who may drop in: • Change Filters Regularly: Over time, the filters in your air conditioning, heating and air ventilating systems can take on any harsh odors present in the home. It’s easy to stop the cycle of odors circulating through your home by stocking up on new filters. Set calendar reminders to change them out on a regular basis. 144 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

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• Keep Pet Odors at Bay: Odor issues can be a major issue for pet owners – and top of mind for the guests who visit them. According to the survey, 77 percent of Americans believe they can tell if someone has a cat just by the smell of their home. For those with cats, keeping the litter box fresh can be a neverending task. Eliminate unwanted smells by scooping regularly and using a litter, such as Arm & Hammer Clump & Seal Cat Litter. Its breakthrough technology forms a tight seal around odor and destroys it with powerful odor eliminators and Arm & Hammer Baking Soda for a seven-day odor-free home – guaranteed. Learn more at www.ClumpandSeal.com. • Pop Open the Windows: A fresh breeze of air coupled with warm sunshine is one of the most natural and effective ways to remove bad odors from your living space. • Be Aware of Your Surfaces: Carpets, window treatments, bedding and walls are all household surfaces that can lock in strong smells and stains. Though these may not be items you focus on in your regular cleaning routines, using a product like baking soda several times throughout the year can make a major difference. Simply sprinkle baking soda onto surfaces and let it sit for 15 minutes before vacuuming. A hospitable home starts with fresh, odor-free air.

www.armandhammer.com

NEW NON-SURGICAL COSMETIC SERVICE

Fort Myers Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Douglas M. Stevens, MD, is one of only three doctors in the Fort Myers area to offer the wrinkle filler Artefill. Unlike other wrinkle fillers, Artefill is a long-lasting solution for natural looking wrinkle correction. Patients have seen results that have lasted as long as five years or more. This means fewer trips to the doctor and no need for multiple injections. One of the prominent differences allowing for these long-lasting results is the Artefill microspheres. Traditional wrinkle fillers are comprised of natural or synthetic materials that are eventually broken down and absorbed by the body. These tiny microspheres do not get absorbed; rather work with the patient’s skin to produce the collagen necessary to keep wrinkles from coming back. In addition to Artefill, Dr. Stevens has introduced Juvederm Voluma™ XC. Different from the original Juvederm®, which is used to simply smooth away wrinkles from the mouth and nose area, Juvederm Voluma™ XC adds volume to the cheek. The result is a subtle lift around the cheek area. Juvederm Voluma™ XC is the first and only FDA-approved filler to do so. For more information please call (239) 481-9292 ABOUT DOUGLAS M. STEVENS, MD Dr. Stevens has been in Fort Myers for over 15 years. He is double board certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery. He is past president of the Lee County Medical Association, a member and past delegate to the Florida Medical Association, a past member of the credentialing committee of the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He is a graduate of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.), the Albany Medical College and did his training at the Bethesda Naval Hospital. He is the former chairman of the Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery at the Great Lakes Naval Hospital and served 12 years in the United States Navy.

www.DouglasStevensMD.com

Dr. Douglas M. Stevens

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Le Macaron The macaron, perfected in France, has a long history dating back centuries in Europe. Macarons are small round cakes that fit in the palm of your hand. They are lightly crisp on the outside, smooth and creamy in the center, filled with ganache (chocolate), rich cream, home-made fruit jams or other quality ingredients. Each season and month, new flavors will be introduced to complement the collection. Dine in or take - out, gift boxes, favor boxes, and custom orders are available. Like more information please contact: 941.552.8872.

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Chores Made Easy

Chores by age group: As children grow older, their abilities change and their responsibilities should adjust accordingly. Here are some examples of chores that are appropriate for each age group. Children 2 to 3 years old: • Put toys away • Stack books and magazines • Place dirty clothes in hamper • Fold washcloths Children 4 to 5 years old: • Feed pets • Make the bed • Water houseplants • Empty wastebaskets Children 6 to 7 years old: • Sweep floors • Set the table • Replace toilet paper roll • Rake leaves Children 8 to 9 years old: • Load dishwasher • Put groceries away • Walk the dog • Vacuum Children 10 and older: • Mow lawn • Prepare a simple meal • Clean countertops • Do the laundry

Family Features

Chores are an important part of teaching children about responsibility. By encouraging kids to be accountable for completing everyday chores, even at an early age, you might be surprised at their willingness to share in the household duties. Here are some tips from the Walgreens Ology™ team on how to get the kids involved in creating a happy, healthy and clean home. Stick to a routine: Consistency is a key component in motivating children to follow through with chores. Make sure to stay on schedule so your kids don’t get into the habit of procrastinating until the following week. Keep expectations reasonable: Go in knowing that your kids aren’t going to clean in the same way you would. Be sure to encourage them along the way for their efforts and resist the urge to criticize or redo the chores they’ve completed. Request specific actions: Make sure you give them clear and specific tasks to complete. For example, rather than telling your kids to put their clothes away, ask them to fold their clothes and put them in the dresser drawers or hang them in the closet.

Use family-friendly cleaners: Fight everyday household messes with a cleaner that’s safer for your family and paper towels that are better for the environment, like Ology All-Purpose Cleaner and 100 percent tree-free paper towels. The cleaner’s plant-based formula is free of harsh solvents, dyes, ammonia and artificial fragrances. Even if your child is too young to clean the countertops themselves, you can feel good about using these cleaners that contain no harmful chemicals when you children are close by. Use a reward chart: For kids, especially the younger ones, a visual reward chart is a great motivational tool and helps children to feel a sense of accomplishment. Purchase a set of gold stars or fun stickers, and allow them to mark off each chore on the chart once finished. After a certain number of chores are completed, offer a small reward for their hard work, such as a movie of their choosing or a special dessert. Give ample praise: Even more important than material rewards, is the satisfaction of a job well done. Make sure to give lots of encouragement along the way as well as positive feedback once the chore is complete.

www.walgreens.com/ology FOCUS of SWFL 2014 147

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Putting Your Identity at Risk A new online survey conducted for Experian’s ProtectMyID® reveals Floridians are still at risk against the continuing threat of identity theft. The survey shows that 50 percent of Florida residents either have been a victim of identity theft or know someone who has been affected by the crime. In addition, people fail to take even simple steps to protect themselves, with only 42 percent reporting that they check credit reports regularly as a means to identify fraudulent activity.

Photo by Daniel Sroga

The statewide study surveyed 1,000 consumers about their knowledge and behaviors related to identity theft. The survey reveals Florida residents take some steps to keep their personal information safe, but further efforts could be made, particularly surrounding technology and online activities. Survey results indicate that only 42 percent password protect their smartphones or tablets, and 22 percent admit they add individuals on social media channels without knowing them. “This survey clearly shows that Florida residents are not doing what they could to stay protected, especially when it comes to reviewing their credit reports for warning signs and protecting their online activities,” said Ken Chaplin, senior vice president of marketing for Experian’s ProtectMyID. “Certainly consumers don’t want to become victims, yet this survey reveals they continue to put themselves at risk.”

Additional survey findings Many Floridians indicate which precautions they do and don’t take to avoid identity theft. The good • Eighty-one percent avoid sharing their Social Security numbers unless required by law • To check for activity that isn’t theirs, 78 percent check account statements as soon as they arrive • Seventy-five percent keep antivirus and antimalware programs up to date on all computers The bad • Forty-three percent do not use different passwords for each online account • Fifty percent do not shred cancelled checks • More than 33 percent have not reviewed their credit reports, to watch for signs of identity theft, in more than six months The medical • Sixty-one percent have not heard of medical identity theft • For those familiar with medical identity theft, 10 percent were either victims of the crime or knew a family member who was • Thirty-seven percent of those familiar with medical identity theft were not aware that it can affect one’s credit score

www.ProtectMyID.com

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er n g e i Des rofil P

Mika Altidor By Cecilia Ponzi

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Photography by Tara Inc. Photography

It started with the love of small trinkets; things that sparkled always caught the eye of jewelry-maker Mika Altidor. And, growing up in Central Florida brought Mika lots of opportunity to find inspiration to create beautiful jewelry. Mika’s new collection, Whisper Love offers a certain charm, each piece its own bold charisma that captures your attention in an alluring way, perfect for the woman who loves life. Mika describes her designs, “filled with gratitude, love and all that comes with it.” That’s probably because early in her career, while studying fashion designed at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale Mika became homeless. She lived out of her car while she continued to go to school, work, the gym, internships, all this and no one knew of her situation. During this time, Mika promised herself that every piece of jewelry would incorporate love and style. Ten years later, Mika specializes in handcrafted, original jewelry designs, one of a kind custom jewelry, and special order jewelry for fashion runway shows and celebrity endorsed charity events. Her collection of 21 pieces for women includes earrings, necklaces and bracelets. The pieces, in crystal, glass and silver, range from $30 for earrings to $124.00 for necklaces. They are also sold on her website, mmcjewelry.com and in surrounding shops in South Florida. The entire collection is handcrafted, adding that something extra special to the jewelry. From carefully selecting the materials that includes high-quality Swarovski Crystal beads to hand crafting each piece of jewelry, the result is delicate detailing and plenty of style.

www.mmcjewelry.com

Photographer: Michael Giragosian Stylist: Mika Altidor Hair/Makeup Artist: Jennifer Beverly Model: McKenzie Stephenson, BMG Agency Clothes: Macy's Jewelry: MMC Jewelry FOCUS of SWFL 2014 151

Photographer: Michael Giragosian Stylist: Mika Altidor Hair/Makeup Artist: Jennifer Beverly Model: McKenzie Stephenson, BMG Agency Clothes: Macy's Jewelry: MMC Jewelry

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Photographer: Michael Giragosian Stylist: Mika Altidor Hair/Makeup Artist: Angelica Chrysler Model: Renee Amberg Clothes: MMC Jewelry Jewelry: MMC Jewelry Location: Euro Living, Orlando 154 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Photographer: Michael Giragosian Stylist: Mika Altidor Hair/Makeup Artist: Angelica Chrysler Model: Renee Amberg Clothes: MMC Jewelry Jewelry: MMC Jewelry FOCUS of SWFL 2014 155

By Susan Bennett

PACE

Center for Girls of Lee County raised $35,575 at the Sixth Annual Grande Dames Tea April 4 at the Broadway Palm in Fort Myers. Barbara Brown of Fort Myers, Sarah Sciple of Matlacha and Margaret Sirianni of Fort Myers were honored for their roles in Southwest Florida history and their decades of service and helping others. Mei-Mei Chan, The News-Press Media Group President and Publisher, once again served as mistress of ceremonies. Chair of the event was Cheryl Komnick with Deanna Hansen serving as co-chair. Both are members of the PACE Lee Board of Directors. “These three outstanding women come from varied backgrounds and offered some insightful advice for the audience and the PACE girls,” Komnick said. “Our theme of The Wisdom of Age – Honoring the Female Spirit was so appropriate because each of these women has much to share from their own life’s journey,” Hansen said. This is the sixth year of the historic Grande Dames Tea. Previous honorees have included philanthropists Berne Davis, Eleanore Kleist and Barbara B. Mann in 2009; Jeanne Bochette, Helen Hendry and Veronica Shoemaker in 2010; Myra Daniels, Kathleen Nealon and Mimi Straub in 2011; Michel Doherty, Mavis Stinson Miller and Anna “Boots” Tolles in 2012; and Thelma Hodges, Helen O’Rourke McClary and Ettie Francis Walsh in 2013.

PACE is a Florida-based, not for profit organization, and the only statewide prevention program for adolescent at-risk girls in the nation. Its mission is to provide girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training and advocacy. In the past year, the Lee County program provided 116 girls with education, counseling, training and advocacy. PACE accepts referrals from the juvenile justice system, the Department of Children & Families, school personnel, community services agencies, parents, family members, friends and self-referrals. PACE Lee’s most recent outcome report shows that 94 percent of girls served have no involvement with the criminal justice system a year after transitioning from PACE’s day program. As a result, PACE reduces the significant long term costs associated with teen pregnancy, substance abuse, unemployment and long term economic dependency. For more information about PACE, call 239-425-2366

The Grande Dames Tea was originated by PACE Center for Girls of Lee County to honor women who have played major roles in Southwest Florida history through decades of service, philanthropy and helping others. The agenda for the tea included interaction between the PACE girls and the three Grande Dames, in a question and answer format. White House | Black Market was the title sponsor of the Grande Dames Tea. Other major sponsors were the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre and Edison National Bank, along with media sponsors Grandeur Magazine and The News-Press Media Group.

2012 Grande Dame Michel Doherty and PACE Board member Kendra Sutton

www.pacecenter.org/lee 156 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Front Row - 2014 Grande Dames Barbara Brown, Sarah Sciple and Margaret Sirianni; Back Row – Mei-Mei Chan & PACE girls

Nikole Wesley and Howard Wheeler

B. Pat O’Rourke, Kim Nealon, 2011 Grande Dame Kathleen Nealon and 2013 Grande Dame Helen O’Rourke McClary

Boots Tolles and Donna Caruso

Sam Sirianni, Jr., 2014 Grande Dame Margaret Sirianni and Stacey Cannington FOCUS of SWFL 2014 157

& s t n

e s v e air f

FUNraiser exceeds expectations

by Sharon Arnold Photos by Mary Kay Mickiewicz, FunPhotography

As promised, guests of Rio Carnival enjoyed an evening of fabulous food, fellowship and dancing all in the name of raising funds to assist individuals throughout the state who have cancer and are financially in need. By night’s end, the Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation’s inaugural fundraiser generated approximately $600,000 that will assist individuals undergoing cancer treatment, may be unable to work and are struggling to make ends meet. The FCS Foundation assists qualified patients with non-medical living expenses, such as rent or mortgage, utility, telephone, auto, and/or other pertinent bills.

In addition to events such as the Rio Carnival and other fundraising efforts, the FCS Foundation is actively supported by the physicians and employees of Florida Cancer Specialists. “As a result of the generosity of donors and those attending this spectacular event, the Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation increased the amount of money available to patients in need,” said Dr. William Harwin, a board-certified oncologist and hematologist, founder and president of Florida Cancer Specialists. “I am overwhelmed by the heartfelt support of the community.”

Jean Hertzog & Michael Neil, Naples Performing Arts Center perform opening dance

Jack and Shelley Glenn

The evening began with a welcome reception featuring a silent auction with many exclusive items, a Mount Gay rum fruit signature cocktail and hors d’oeuvres. Attendees then moved into the ballroom which was alive in color from the multi-colored centerpieces. Entertainment included the pulsating tropical carnival review of International Productions by Tahja; Bay Colony resident, Jean Hertzog, and her dance partner, Michael Neil; Gabriella Bodocs Lobello and Johnny Permar with Naples Performing Arts Center; and Billy Dean & Dawn provided high-powered music that kept couples on the dance floor well into the evening. Dinner was expertly prepared by the culinary team at The Ritz Carlton, Naples and included an entrée of Chilean sea bass and a scrumptious South American desert. 158 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Pauline Pitt and Jerry Seay

Event chair, Jackie Bearse, an advisory board member of the foundation who has been successfully treated for breast and lung cancer, oversaw the planning and execution of every detail for the sold-out event. “Jackie’s creativity, passion and endless energy are the reasons this inaugural event was so successful,” added Harwin. “Jackie, as well as her committee, is to be commended for her dedication to this cause that is so personal to her.”

Dr. Meir Daller (urologist), Dr. Alan Brown (oncologist)

Peter & Kaye Negri, Kevin & Cathy Giblin, Peggy & Don Redlinger

Greg Vasil, Kathy Doehner, Ginny Vasil, George Doehner, Nora Kolmer & John Kolmer Jr.

Jay and Beth Bush

Dancing girls with Cimbria Temkin & Dr. William Harwin

Presenting sponsor of the 2014 event was a generous (anonymous) corporate sponsor; gold sponsors included Amgen; Kathy and George Doehner; Omega Office Systems; Oncology Supply, AmerisourceBergen Specialty Group; and Onyx Pharmaceuticals. Silver sponsors included Jackie and Dick Bearse; Boehringer Ingelheim; Classical South Florida; Eisai, Inc.; Jaguar, Range Rover, Land Rover, Audi - Fort Myers; Janssen Biotech, Inc.; Lawrence D. Share Company; Lockton; Medical Protective; Millennium; MSD Oncology; Myriad; Octapharma; Seattle Genetics; Spectrum Pharmaceuticals; SunTrust; and Julia and Bill VanDomelen. Bronze sponsors included Agendia; Luann and J.T. Battenberg; Dendreon; Henry Schein; Morgan Stanley Private Wealth Management; Teva Pharmaceuticals; and Willis of Florida. Underwriters included Joan and Bill Carlson, entertainment; Heart & Soul, gift bags; and Joel Greiff, photography.

Lory and Dr. Frank Rodriguez

Rio Carnival Chair Jackie & Dick Bearse

The Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation provides non-medical living expense assistance to qualified applicants who have cancer by offering short-term financial support to individuals undergoing cancer treatment in the state of Florida. For more information about the foundation and the event, call 855-585-5433. The foundation is located at 4371 Veronica S. Shoemaker Blvd. in Fort Myers. Donations may be made payable to FCS Foundation.

www.foundation.flcancer.com

Dr. William Harwin, Dr. Mark Rubin

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 159

Photographer: Julian Bern (www.julianbern.com) Model : Alexandra Ca単adas, Studio 04 Models Corset : Glowyth Stylist : Glowyth Cakes : Raul Asencio Dogs : Aquazul Hair : Isabel Ria単o MUA : Carmen Belen Mu単oz Photo Assistant - Fran Bastida 160 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

THE PINK HOUSE JulianBern

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Photographer: Julian Bern (www.julianbern.com) Model : Alexandra Ca単adas, Studio 04 Models Dress : Glowyth Shoes : Steve Madden Stylist : Glowyth Cakes : Raul Asencio Dogs : Aquazul Hair : Isabel Ria単o MUA : Carmen Belen Mu単oz Photo Assistant - Fran Bastida

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Photographer: Julian Bern (www.julianbern.com) Model : Lucia Leal Coat & Short : Glowyth Watch : Omega Necklace :Vintage Shoes : Guess Stylist : Glowyth Cakes : Raul Asencio Dogs : Aquazul Hair : Isabel Ria単o MUA : Carmen Belen Mu単oz Photo Assistant - Fran Bastida

164 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Photographer: Julian Bern (www.julianbern.com) Model : Alexandra Ca単adas, Studio 04 Models Dress : Glowyth Shoes : Guess Stylist : Glowyth Cakes : Raul Asencio Dogs : Aquazul Hair : Isabel Ria単o MUA : Carmen Belen Mu単oz Photo Assistant - Fran Bastida

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 165

"Bejeweled"

"Bejeweled" is a multi-media art exhibit that combines gelatin silver portraits and delicate beadwork that has been affixed to the photographic image. The lovely work represents a combination of Renaissance beauty and Beaux Arts fashion. It is currently on display at Creations Gallery in Punta Gorda, Florida and will be there until mid-April. Myrna Charry, fine art film photographer, has a degree in photography from the City University of New York. She has been producing and exhibiting work for 20 years and has taught photography in Florida, New York and London, UK. Charry's images are in the surreal tradition: not conventionally pretty, they present fresh forms and curious arrangements. She uses light to highlight as well as hide shapes and form, employing "chiaroscuro" techniques of 14th and 15th century painters. Virginia Abraham has been a teacher for 35 years, employing innovative and imaginative learning techniques and materials in her classroom. She has been doing beadwork for 15 years, following in the footsteps of Beth Morrison, her friend and mentor. The collaboration in this exhibit was a new and unique opportunity for Abraham. The photographs provided ideas for the use of shapes and colors in addition to whatever feeling the photographs invoked. Besides beads from her extensive collection, adhesive semi-precious rhinestones were also incorporated into many of the pieces. FOCUS of SWFL 2014 167

Artist Gallery

Everglades Avenue - By Bonnie Langenfeld

Whaleback Light - By Judith Anderson

Singing, Not to Sing-The Oven Bird - By Megan Kissinger 168 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Owls Head - By Laura Waller

Elephant I - By Deborah Martin

SORCERER - By STOFFEL DE ROOVER FOCUS of SWFL 2014 169

TeaHealth

Pukka Herbal Teas are all certified organic and some are made with flowers, including rose, hibiscus and elderflower. Even though flowers are cherished mostly for their beauty and sweet scents, they have several other properties that are quite vital to our health and well-being. Flowers such as rose, hibiscus, elderflower, limeflower, and oat flower can all do amazing things for your health when they are consumed in tea. Pukka Herbal Tea is bringing this to life with teas like Love, Harmonise, Elderberry and Echinacea and Night Time. At the hand of a team of skilled herbalists and with meticulous attention to the quality, Pukka teas are all certified organic and are carefully blended using only the most potent, vibrant herbs available. Each flavor comes in a beautiful box that looks as unique as the tea blend itself. Made with the powerful philosophies of Ayurvedic Medicine and ingredients known to aid in digestion, immunity, weight management and more, tea drinkers are able to indulge in tea time and do something good for their body as well. • Rose is known to soothe and has a calming effect on the mind and is synonymous with the heart. • Hibiscus helps rejuvenate and balance and is a part of the mallow family. • Elderflower, the flower of the Elder tree, has long been used as a sweet tonic and rich folklore. • Limeflower is a delicate flower with a sweet smell that is renowned for its relaxing qualities. • Oat flower is known to calm, nourish and sooth the body, and help settle the mind. A box of one of Pukka’s 35 varieties retails for $6.95 and includes 20 sachets. Pukka is available at Vitamin Shoppe locations nationwide and iherb.com.

www.GerroArt.com (941) 639-6364

One of a kind handmade fashion Photography by Tone Imaging M odel Wendy Wil liams

170 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

SanCap Cares breaks record

Jim Nathan, Jim Sprankle, Dr. Eric Eason

Carol Courter

Co-Chairs - Amanda Cross, Mike Mullins, Dorothy Fitzgerald

Photos courtesy of SanCap Cares

Scott McDonald, Marty 'Michelle Pfeiffer' Harrity

It was a million dollar plus evening at SanCap Cares at The Sanctuary Golf Club on Sanibel. The 14th Annual Island Celebration benefited Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida. The gala included cocktails, appetizers, a “give-to-give” auction of equipment that the hospital needs, dinner, and silent and live auctions. The stunning auctioneer, Marty Harrity got everyone’s attention when appearing in a sparkling red dress on a piano as Michelle Pfeiffer from The Fabulous Baker Boys. The Sanibel Island councilman, Harrity, crooned, flirted and encouraged the crowd to new heights. By the end of the evening more than $1 million dollars was raised for the Children’s Hospital capital campaign. Also assisting Harrity with the live auction were Melissa Congress as master of ceremonies and Jeannie Kendall and Holly Smith. Generous bidders ended the evening with vacations to Mexico and across the U.S. (many donated by South Seas Island Resort), Congress Jewelers bling, spectacular dining experiences including an over-the-top dining experience at Sanibel’s Blue Coyote Supper Club and the ever-popular “Name That Drink” from Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille. Caught up in the excitement, Jim Sprankle donated a second wildlife carving. Over the years, his renowned bird carvings have helped raise more than $200,000 for the new hospital. Thanks to SanCap Cares co-chairs Amanda Cross, Dorothy Fitzgerald and Mike Mullins, and their dedicated committee, the hospital now has new specialized pediatric medical equipment and is closer to fulfilling their $10 million commitment to the hospital. Two anonymous donors generously contributed $200,000 for a Freddie the Fire Engine portable x-ray machine that will make hospital procedures less scary for children.

On hand to give his thanks was Jim Nathan, CEO of Lee Memorial Health System, “Sanibel and Captiva truly cares. For 14 years they have always exceeded their goal. This labor of love demonstrates that they are working to keep our sick children close to home.” The new, larger facility will help accommodate the growing demand and will be better equipped to provide the care children need when they are critically ill. The children’s hospital, located adjacent to HealthPark, will provide 36 pediatric acute care beds, 12 pediatric hematology/oncology beds, 64 neonatal intensive care beds, 16 pediatric intensive care unit beds, 17 children’s emergency department beds, a diagnostic and MRI suite, the Ronald McDonald family room, an in-hospital classroom, play areas and more. SanCap Cares has made a $10 million commitment to support the pediatric emergency department and is now more than halfway to that goal. The new emergency department will be larger with state-of-the-art technology designed especially for children and will be named after the Sanibel and Captiva communities. In addition to the new facilities for children, there will be improvements at HealthPark benefiting adults, including four additional exam rooms in the emergency department, 48 more inpatient adult beds, new state-of-the-art equipment and expanded cardiac services. For the 11th year, the Sanibel Captiva Trust Company served as master sponsor of the gala. For additional information, contact Amanda Cross at 239-472-2082.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 171

Cook with

Love

by Sharon Arnold

Love has planned an assortment of evening classes that begin at 6:30 p.m. with a wine reception and typically end around 9:30 p.m. 1. Truffles: Master the 100-year-old art from the dark chocolate hand-formed truffle to the modern Swiss shell-filled truffle; students will take home the truffles they create. Dates: May 28 and Sept. 17 2. Molded Candies: Learn how to make NLC’s famous jewel-like treasures from hand coloring to casting liquid chocolate and mixing the custom ganaches to fill the candies; then take home the treasures when done. Dates: May 14, July 9, Aug. 6 and 27 3. Cookies: Become an NLC baker for the night; learn and create rich butter French Diamant, jam-filled Linzer cookies and warm baked chocolate chip cookies while learning secrets and techniques to make friends and family jealous. Dates: June 11 and Aug. 20 4. Cupcakes: Learn how to construct custom cupcakes starting with the rich chocolate batter and toppings of fluffy butter-cream; sample vanilla-laden steps along the way and take home all your creations. Date: June 25 and Sept. 3 5. Elegant Home Desserts: Learn the art of making elegant and delicious desserts that you can confidently make in a home kitchen from the popular liquid center chocolate cake to the classic and simplified soufflé. Date: July 23 6. Chocolate and Wine Tasting: An elegant evening of chocolate and wine pairings hosted by Norman Love who will describe the unique qualities of each of the featured chocolates as well as the history of chocolate making and the processes used to create his famous confections; also learn about the art of selecting wines to enjoy with various kinds of chocolates and taste these pairings in raw and finished forms. Date: Sept. 24 “Our classes are perfect for those who define chocolate as one of the four basic food groups,” said Love. “Not only will attendees have the opportunity to see and be a part of what goes on behind the scenes, they will also be able to take home the chocolates they made themselves.”

Norman Love has announced the 2014 class schedule for chocolate making classes at Norman Love Confections.

The cost is $95 per person, per class. Classes are limited, so early reservations are encouraged. Due to health and safety regulations, closed toe shoes, minimal jewelry and sleeved shirts are required. For more information or to make reservations, call Lisa at 239-561-7215.

Through September, the master chocolatier will share some of the techniques he uses to create the chocolate indulgences that are ranked No. 1 in the nation. Love, along with his award-winning team of artisan pastry chefs, will lead participants in the step-by-step process of making exquisitely beautiful chocolates and desserts.

Norman Love Confections creates and distributes handcrafted artisanal chocolates from the Fort Myers corporate headquarters that encompasses both production and retail operations. The Fort Myers and Naples chocolate salons are stylish retail shops with an intimate ambience in which customers may purchase chocolates or linger over house-made pastries, gourmet coffees, lattes and smoothies. The award-winning Fort Myers-based chocolatier has been lauded 13 times by a leading consumer ratings magazine including recognition six times for producing the best ultra-premium chocolates, and most recently as a Best Buy for Special Chocolates for Valentine’s Day 2014. The Fort Myers Chocolate Salon, at 11380 Lindbergh Blvd., is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Naples Chocolate Salon, which also serves artisan gelato, at 3747 Tamiami Trail North in Parkshore Centre, is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Artisan Gelato by Norman Love, at 11300 Lindbergh Blvd., Suite 112, off Daniels Parkway in Fort Myers, east of I-75, is open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

www.normanloveconfections.com 172 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Baby Basics Raises $20,000

Baby Basics of Collier County, a volunteer organization that provides free diapers and kindness to over 345 infants and toddlers from low-income, working families in Collier County and Bonita Springs, raised $20,000 at its “3 Millionth Diaper Celebration” on Thursday, March 13 at the Waterside Shops in Naples.

Photos courtesy of WILKINSON Photography by LANE

Baby Basics 3 Millionth Diaper Celebration attendees, Beth Juliano, Camille Supplee, and Janice Baker.

Over 160 donors, volunteers, and friends gathered to celebrate the organization’s milestone of providing three million diapers to children in Southwest Florida. The event also allowed Baby Basics to educate the public about the organization’s mission, to thank its volunteers and donors, and to raise funds to continue its mission. The evening was emceed by Rob Spicker, WINK-TV news anchor, and his daughter, Rylie Spicker, and included delicious appetizers and live entertainment provided by Jim Adams, an Elvis tribute artist. A highlight of the evening was hearing from two Baby Basics participant families about how the organization has helped their family. The two families were then presented with a $100 gift card to Whole Foods, baby clothes from Little Luxe, and dinner from Giovanni Ristorante Italiano. Special thanks to 3 Millionth Diaper Celebration sponsors The Beacon Group at Morgan Stanley and Morgan Stanley Naples; Waterside Shops; Al Taylor, Realtor; Vineyards Properties, Inc.; Willow Street Advisors; Devoe Cadillac; Patrick Dearborn, LLC Realtor, John Woods; Northern Trust; Giovanni Ristorante Italiano, Inc.; Key Private Bank; Life in Naples; IMA Creative, Inc.; Escales Paris; Whole Foods; Shula’s; Publix; and Jim Adams, Elvis Tribute Artist.

Over 160 donors, volunteers, and friends gathered to celebrate Baby Basics’ accomplishment.

Baby Basics of Collier County was founded in 2004 and has impacted over 1,600 families in Collier County and Bonita Springs since it began. Families interested in the program are referred from local social service agencies and are screened for qualification. To participate in the program, families must meet certain criteria - which include at least one working parent or guardian, demonstrated financial need, and the family may not be receiving federal or state cash assistance. Those families who meet the criteria come to the closest distribution site to pick up a free supply of diapers. Volunteers greet the families, help them select the proper size, and provide information about the next distribution and other opportunities for supportive services. Baby Basics is a 100% volunteer organization, and all donations, and sponsorship funds except those specifically earmarked for administrative costs, are used to purchase diapers. Baby Basics of Collier County’s next event is its Mother's Day Tea at the Ritz, May 10 at 2:00 p.m. By Laurel Meny

www.BabyBasicsCollier.org Jim Adams, Elvis Tribute Artist, served as entertainment for the evening.

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Warm-Weather Pairings

For your next al fresco gathering, complete the menu and satisfy guests by pairing a flavorful meal with wines to celebrate sunny days and warm evenings. When it comes to outdoor entertaining, choose fresh, vibrantly colored vegetables and a flavorful meat selection, such as tender lamb. Take your fare to the next level by uncorking one of the many delicious wines from Sterling Vineyards, all of which are perfect for celebrating warm evenings and special friends. Whether your event is an elegant Mother’s Day meal or a casual summer brunch, Sterling’s wide portfolio of wines at a range of prices ensures there’s something for everyone. Carneros Pinot Noir offers a dark red fruit profile and toasty oak complexity, making it the perfect wine to pair with lamb. Sweet Endings When it comes time to dish out the finale to your meal, pair those yummy desserts with a sweet and lightly-flavored wine, such as Butterfly Kiss Moscato. This well-balanced, sweet white wine is loaded with stone fruit and citrus flavors and tastes delicious after a hearty lamb dish. For other delicious entertaining ideas, visit www.SterlingVineyards.com and www.TheWineBar.com.

Pinot Noir-Braised Lamb Shanks with Porcini and Cannellini Beans Yield: 4 servings 4 1 1 1/2 1 10 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 4 1/4

12- to 14-ounce lamb shanks Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste ounce dried porcini mushrooms bottle Sterling Carneros Pinot Noir cup extra virgin olive oil large yellow onion, cut into 1/4-inch dice medium garlic cloves, peeled and minced medium carrots, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch dice large celery rib, cut into 1/4-inch dice can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes can (14 ounces) cannellini beans, drained bay leaf tablespoon chopped fresh thyme tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary servings of soft polenta cup chopped flat leaf parsley, for garnish

Preheat oven to 325°F. Trim skin and tendons from lamb shanks. Season meat with salt and pepper. Rinse porcini and soak in 2 cups of wine. Brown shanks in 1/4 cup oil in large Dutch oven or heavy, oven-proof pot over medium heat until browned on all sides. Transfer to plate. Add onions, carrots, and celery to pan, adding more oil if needed. Cook, stirring occasionally until it begins to brown, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, cooking and stirring for another 2 minutes. Remove mushrooms from soaking liquid, squeeze, and chop into medium pieces. Add them to pot along with soaking wine, remaining wine, tomatoes, cannellini beans, bay leaf, thyme and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper. Return shanks to pot, cover, and transfer to oven until shanks are very tender and meat has shrunk back to expose an inch of bone, 2 to 2-1/2 hours, turning every 30 minutes. Remove from oven and season again to taste. To serve, mound a serving of polenta on each plate, top with a lamb shank, smother with sauce from pan, and sprinkle with chopped parsley. 174 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

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Wine Preservation Savino is manufactured in the U.S.A. with the highest quality materials to provide every wine lover the ability to enjoy great tasting wine, everyday, for years to come.

Fifteen years ago, Scott Tavenner opened his refrigerator to find a glass of wine sitting on the top shelf. Asking his wife about the glass, she responded, "I wanted to save the wine for later. " This simple statement sparked a journey which led him to try almost every wine preservation system available. Years of disappointment with the available products led Scott to develop an innovative solution to this common problem â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Savino.

Simply being a great wine preservation solution was not enough. Savino also needed to be elegant and extremely easy-to-use. Dozens of wine lovers were interviewed about the details that matter most to them and incorporated into the design, including the top that prevents accidental spills, the capacity to hold 750ml of wine, and a shape and size that easily fits in your hand for pouring and in most refrigerators for storing. All of this beauty and function was packaged into a gorgeous design so the consumerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs and preferences are considered, ensuring a great experience from the very beginning.

Unlike other wine preservation solutions on the market, Savino does not try to control the environment of an opened bottle of wine. Instead, it creates a new, beautiful environment designed to preserve and serve wine. Savino started with a simple premise â&#x20AC;&#x201C; great products begin with a great experience. Savino centers its experience on a product that is effective, elegant and easy-to-use.

Savino is an easy-to-use wine preservation system that allows you to enjoy your favorite wine anytime without waiting for an occasion. Open any bottle with confidence, knowing that you can enjoy the full original flavor of Tuesday's wine on Saturday.

www.savinowine.com FOCUS of SWFL 2014 175

Art of Grilling Family Features

A recent survey by the Heart, Patio and Barbecue Association found that seven out of 10 home grillers consider themselves to be “better than average” at grilling. With warmer weather on the horizon, there’s no better time to put your skills to the test and perfect the art of pork chops on the grill. An incredibly flavorful, juicy and tender choice, pork chops – with cuts like Porterhouse, Ribeye and New York – are perfect for casual backyard entertaining and easy family dinners alike. Tips for Tender Chops Mastering grilled pork chops is easy no matter your skill on the grill. It’s all about selecting the right recipe, preparing the grill correctly and grilling your pork chops like a steak using a digital thermometer to ensure the proper range of doneness – between 145°F (medium rare), followed by a three-minute rest and 160°F (medium). To prep your grill: • Arrange hot coals evenly on the fire grate of the grill or use all gas burners on medium-hot heat • Place pork directly above the heat source • Follow suggested cooking times – 3/4 inch chops should be cooked for 8-9 minutes and 1 1/2 inch chops for 12-16 minutes -turning once during cooking For a deliciously sweet and spicy recipe like Sweet Fire Pork Chops, seasoned with hot chipotle chile, zesty orange, garlic and sweet honey – choose 3/4-inch Porterhouse (bone-in loin) chops to create your new favorite masterpiece. For a complete meal, serve them with a side of mashed sweet potatoes and sautéed green beans.

“Sweet Fire” Porterhouse Pork Chops Servings: 4 Ingredients 4 Porterhouse (bone-in loin) pork chops, about 3/4-inch thick 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 1/2 teaspoons ground chipotle chile 1 1/2 teaspoons coarse salt Grated zest of 1 large orange 2 teaspoons garlic, minced 1/3 cup honey Cooking Directions In a small bowl, stir oil, ground chipotle, salt, orange zest and garlic together into a paste. Using a rubber spatula, spread chipotle mixture over both sides of pork. Let stand for 15 to 30 minutes. Prepare a medium-hot fire in grill. Place chops on grill and close lid. Grill over direct heat, turning once, about 4-5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature of the pork on a meat thermometer measures between 145°F (medium rare) and 160°F (medium). During the last 2 minutes, brush chops on both sides with honey. Remove from grill and let rest for 3 minutes.

www.PorkBeinspired.com 176 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Incredible

Steak

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Ten Tips for Perfect Grilling

uite possibly the ultimate steak, the T-bone embodies the rich blend of varied beef flavors that steak lovers crave, from tender and mild to bold and beefy. On one side of the T-bone is the filet mignon. French for “dainty fillet,” the filet mignon is considered the most tender cut, with a mild beef flavor. On the other side of the T-bone is the strip loin or New York strip, a firm, robust steak that is naturally marbled and offers a bold taste. The bone itself also provides additional flavor in the cooking process. With this pairing of tastes, it is no surprise that the T-bone is considered to be “the best of both worlds” by steak connoisseurs.

www.OmahaSteaks.com 178 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

1. Clean and preheat your grill on high. 2. Lightly oil everything before you put it on the grill. This helps the searing process and prevents sticking. 3. Season your food before grilling. 4. Sear the outside of steaks when grilling. This really helps with the flavor and juiciness. 5. Use tongs or a spatula to turn your meat on the grill. Using a fork can damage the meat. 6. Cover your grill as much as possible during the grilling process. This helps to lock in the grilled flavor and will help prevent flare-ups. 7. Keep a spray bottle with water handy to douse any unexpected flare-ups. 8. Use the 60/40 grilling method. Grill for 60 percent of the time on the first side, then grill 40 percent of the time after you turn over the food. This will give you an evenly cooked product. 9. Place your cooked product on a clean plate. Never place cooked product on the plate you used to transport the raw product to the grill without thoroughly washing it first. 10. Allow your foods to “rest” for 5 minutes between cooking and eating. This will help them retain moisture when you cut into them.

Roasted Pepper Pesto Makes: approximately 2 cups 1 cup roasted red peppers, peeled, seeded and chopped 1/4 cup garlic cloves, peeled 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/2 cup olive oil

Roasted Pepper Pesto Rubbed Grilled T-Bones Prep time: 30 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Combine all ingredients except olive oil in food processor or blender, and Total time: 45 minutes puree until smooth. Next, add oil slowly in food processor until completely Serves: 4 combined. 4 Omaha Steaks T-bone steaks 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/4 cup Omaha Steaks Private Reserve Seasoning, or salt and pepper 1 recipe Roasted Pepper Pesto (see recipe below) 4 fresh basil sprigs Preheat grill to medium. Brush steaks with olive oil and season with seasoning, or salt and pepper. Brush both sides of steaks with Roasted Pepper Pesto. Place steaks on grill and cook to desired doneness. (For a medium-rare steak about 8 minutes on first side and 6 to 7 minutes on second side.) When steaks are finished, brush both sides one final time with pesto. Serve steaks with dollop of unused pesto in center of each and garnish with fresh basil sprig.

Ancho Chile Rubbed Grilled T-Bones Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Total time: 15 minutes Serves: 4 4 Omaha Steaks T-bone steaks 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 tablespoons Ancho Chile Rub (see recipe below) 12 grilled tri-color sweet baby peppers Preheat grill to medium. Thaw and blot dry steaks. Brush steaks with olive oil. Generously cover both sides of steaks with Ancho Chile Rub by dipping them in rub. Continue until steaks are completely covered. Place steaks on heated grill and grill to desired doneness. (For a medium-rare steak, grill approximately 8 minutes on first side and 6 to 7 minutes on second side.) Remove steaks from grill and garnish with grilled tri-colored sweet baby peppers.

Thick Steak, Bone-in Steak and Chop Cooking Chart Cooking times are in minutes and based on fully-thawed steaks. Gas grill: Preheat grill to high, reduce to medium heat prior to cooking. Charcoal grill: Sear over red hot coals, finish over indirect heat. Thickness

1”

1 1/4”

1 1/2”

1 3/4”

2”

2 1/4”

2 1/2”

Rare 120° to 130°F

First Side After Turning

6 3–4

6 4–5

7 5–6

9 6–7

11 7–8

13 8–9

14 10–12

Medium Rare 130° to 140°F

First Side After Turning

6 4–5

7 5–6

8 6–7

11 8–9

13 9–10

14 10–12

16 12–14

Medium 140° to 150°F

First Side After Turning

7 5–6

8 6–7

9 7–8

12 9–10

14 11–12

16 12–14

17 14–16

Well Done 160° to 170°F

First Side After Turning

9 7–8

10 8–9

12 9–11

14 12–14

18 14–16

19 16–18

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implify your summer entertaining routine with quick, easy-to-make dishes that feature fresh, scrumptious ingredients.

Laid back and lovely, summer parties call for wonderful friends, flavorful foods and refreshing beverages. But having company over to enjoy the beautiful outdoor surroundings doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean you have to stress over time-consuming meals that can take all day to prepare. Luckily, there are yummy options available for every al fresco host.

Keeping it simple, fresh Make a warm weather gathering great by incorporating creative dishes that require the beloved summertime ritual of firing up the grill. Simple grilled recipes, or those that require no cooking, allow you to cut down on the prep and clean up time. Your guests will love these recipes, which all feature Sabra Hummus, a better-for-you dip. Available in more than 10 flavors, Sabra allows you to customize to your guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; favorite, flavorful preferences. Serve up those summer flavors all season long.

Get Together and Grill Grilled Flatbread with Hummus & Mixed Veggies Prep time: 5 minutes Total time: 30 minutes Yield: 4 servings 1 1 1 1 8 1 4 1 4 1 2 2

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tablespoon olive oil clove garlic, minced sweet onion, thinly sliced red bell pepper, thinly sliced large mushrooms, thinly sliced cup baby spinach Indian flatbreads (naan) or pocketless pita cup Sabra Hummus teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese cup part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded teaspoons dried oregano Red pepper flakes, optional tablespoons balsamic vinegar

Heat oil in skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, onion bell pepper and mushroom. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 8 minutes or until veggies are soft. Remove from heat and stir in spinach. Set aside. Place flatbread on grill or stovetop gas flame; grill for a couple of minutes or until lightly browned, turning once. Place all four flatbreads on baking sheet. To assemble flatbreads, evenly spread surface with hummus. Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top of hummus. Top with veggies then mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with oregano and red pepper flakes. Place in oven and bake for about 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar. Loaded Chopped Salad with Chipotle-Hummus Dressing Prep time: 15 minutes Total time: 15 minutes Yield: 4-6 servings For salad: 2 1 2 2 10 1/2 1/2 2

heads romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces red bell pepper, diced celery ribs, diced carrots, peeled and diced grape tomatoes, halved small red onion, diced English cucumber, diced tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese

For dressing: 1/2 cup Sabra Chipotle Hummus, including all of topping 1/4 cup reduced fat milk 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar Place all ingredients for the salad in large bowl and toss gently to combine. Whisk all ingredients for dressing in small bowl.

www.sabra.com

Pour half of dressing on top of salad and toss well to coat. Add more dressing as desired or serve extra on side. FOCUS of SWFL 2014 181

Fresh, Fruity Ideas

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When planning what to serve at your next party, glean inspiration from the sweet and tangy, refreshing flavors found only in the produce aisle. Go above and beyond the norms of average party menus by serving up drinks and foods that energize as well as excite the palate. With a burst of familiar melon flavor at the start, followed by delicate citrus hints at the finish, the Kandy Lemondrop Melon is the perfect ingredient to perk up the party. Unlike anything you have ever tasted, this melon makes an ideal gourmet stand-alone snack, but can be easily incorporated into dishes for a unique, one-of-akind flavor. Try it pureed for a refreshing cocktail, or pair with prosciutto and balsamic vinegar for a flavorful appetizer. A real, refreshing ingredient With so many foods containing questionable ingredients, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nice to know natural options still exist. The Kandy Lemondrop Melon does not contain genetically modified organisms (GMO free) and is the perfect nutritional snack, boasting no fat or cholesterol. It also provides more than the recommended daily amount of vitamin A, and more than 50 percent of vitamin C. Goodness from the ground A good understanding of where their food comes from is essential for many health-conscious hosts and home cooks. For more than 100 years, Martori Farms has honored its founding principle of consistently offering the freshest products of the finest quality. Included in their offering is the Kandy Lemondrop Melon, which is held solely with a proprietary license in the United States by this fourth generation family-owned and operated company. Over the years, they have grown into a vertically integrated operation, shipping fresh fruits and vegetables year-round throughout North America.

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Martori Kandy Lemondrop Melon Martini 2 ounces juice extracted from a Martori Kandy Lemondrop Melon 1 ounce vodka of choice Sugar for rim Shake Martori Kandy Lemondrop Melon juice and vodka over ice. Pour into sugar-rimmed glass and garnish with Martori Kandy Lemondrop Melon ball. Martori Kandy Lemondrop Wrap Martori Kandy Lemondrop Melon, removed with melon baller 8 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto 1/4 cup reduced balsamic vinegar 20 toothpicks or cakepop sticks Wrap each ball with a slice of prosciutto, secure with toothpick or cakepop stick. Drizzle balsamic vinegar reduction on serving tray. Arrange wrapped melon balls on platter. Refrigerate until serving.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Make Every Day Earth Day

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Whether stopping in for a daily to-go cup of coffee or running your weekly grocery store trip, you likely have many purchases throughout the day. With Earth Day right around the corner, it’s a great time to reflect on your own personal impact on the environment and the world around you. Because so many consumer habits can have a negative effect on the planet, it’s important to take steps to reduce this trend. “There are many ways to support the green movement,” said Hillary Femal, vice president of marketing for IFCO, the world’s leading producer of eco-friendly Reusable Produce Containers. “But the easiest way is to become an educated consumer.” Be a green consumer As a sustainable shopper, you can do your part to cut down on the amount of waste filling landfills and other environmental dangers. Here are a few steps you can implement in your own daily routine or whenever you’re out shopping: • Know Your Grocer: Many companies and grocers are taking steps to provide greener solutions for the display of their products, such as produce. Recycling cardboard boxes used to display produce is good, but according to the EPA, reuse is better. That's why many grocers use Reusable Produce Containers (RPCs). Grocers can use and reuse these containers to ship, store and display fresh produce – all in an environmentally friendly way that reduces waste. • Understand Your Brands: Educate yourself on whether your favorite brands and fresh produce growers support green initiatives. Village Farms is a greenhouse grower of fresh tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers that focuses on green agricultural practices from the farmer to your plate. Village Farms and many other growers choose to use RPCs to pack fresh fruits and vegetables safely 184 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

from their fields. From there they ship the RPCs to major retailers across the country and the containers keep the produce safe and fresh throughout the journey. • Choose to Reuse: Keep in mind that recycling is a start, but reuse is smart. You can choose to reuse by choosing products with eco-friendly or reusable packaging and shopping at retailers displaying their fresh produce in RPCs. This packaging is not only good for the fruits and veggies you love, but it’s also great for you and the planet. • Support Grocers that Reduce Waste: Some specialty food stores may be well known for their green standards, but many major food retailers are also making green choices. Many choose to provide produce brands, such as Village Farms, who recognize the importance of reducing waste when shipping their products and choose RPCs to reduce waste, energy and greenhouse gas emissions. These stores are also able to display the produce directly in their containers, getting even more use out of them and showing their commitment to environmental conservation. • Bag it Up: According to the EPA, thousands of plastic and paper shopping bags are thrown away every year. Help cut down on this extra waste by using reusable cloth bags for your purchases. Keep them with you in your car, so they’re always handy for shopping trips to the grocery store, drug store or anywhere else you frequently shop. So, the next time you’re spending the green in your wallet, think about how to make green choices with the products you buy. To learn about Reusable Produce Containers and support and share the cause with your friends by following Choose to Reuse on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.