Focus Magazine of SWFL

SEPT/OCT 2013

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HELLO

Summer !

The Most

Exciting $4.95

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OYSTER PERPETUAL DATEJUST YELLOW ROLESOR SET WITH 46 BRILLIANTS FOR AN OFFICIAL ROLEX JEWELER CALL 1-800-367-6539.

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Coll i e r Sa ra so ta Cha r l o tte Lee

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22 Vacation Essentials 24 Fun Activities 28 Tips 30 Lower Your Cholesterol 41 Make Your Movie Night 42 Simple ways to improve 46 Volunteering 50 Stand Up to Cancer 57 Systematic Performance 64 Keep Your car Running Longer 80 Lightweight 86 REAL ESTATE… 90 Small Changes with Big Impact 92 Helpful Kitchen Tips 94 Ant Prevention 97 Transform Your Kids’ Room 98 Dream Green Kitchen 102 Seeing 107 Get it in Writing 108 Over Age 50?

110 Plan Ahead for Your Online Hereafter 112 Everyone Needs 116 Style You

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Jim Jordan

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Vincent Gotti Mani Zarrin

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Kristin Kerry

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Meg Urbani

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Beauty Think Pink Fit & Comfort Ageless Jewelry Feed Your Child’s Mind Our Love of Tea A Healthier You Talkin’ Puddin’ Mealtime Raising the Bar Meals Mixing It Up! Back to School Snacking Super Snacks Technology

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Artist Gallery

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FO CM a g a z i n e www.focusofswfl.com Publisher: Focus Magazine of SWFL Cover Photography: Mary Beth logan Model: Summer Crosley Wardrobe: Free People

News & Info

38 Style & Beauty 55 Art News 55 Path to Wellness 5K Run/Walk 101 Five Rare Concert Performances 104 Mental Health Awareness Week 106 6th Annual Champagne Brunch & Fashion Show 115 Hawaiian Tropic New Face 198 Events & Affairs

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Contributors: Terry Profetto, Susan Bennett, Márcia Ávila, Ubarana Jr., Andy Kwan, Gwen Vikkey Miao, Lisa Giddings, Samantha Ramos, Mary Beth Logan, Lina LaSalle, Ginny Grimsley, Dr. Joseph Barr, Giovanni Bogetto, Anna Filipiak, Samantha Ramos, Mike Coppola, Frazer Harrison, Indi Franco, Louise Fritz, Scott Black, Chip Krespach, Victor Simpkins, Nancy Nassiff, Garth Francis, Anthony William, Curt Blakeney, Cynthia Lawes, Ian Downs, Krystina Woldanowski Focus Magazine of SWFL is published Bimonthly. Articles do not necessarily reflect Focus Magazine of SWFL policy. © 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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Maserati of Central Florida - 525 South Lake Destiny Drive - Orlando - Florida 32810 - 407.667.4300

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Vacation Essentials Even the most experienced travelers have arrived at their vacation destination only to realize the camera or sunglasses are still sitting on the kitchen counter at home. There is no worse feeling than leaving an essential item behind, causing you stress when you should be enjoying R&R. Sure, there are those who subscribe to the theory anything can be bought at your destination. But who wants to waste valuable time at the local drug store when you could be on the slopes or at the beach? Start your trip by creating a packing list of essentials.

Then you can fly off to paradise knowing everything you need is right in your suitcase where it belongs.

Here are a few ideas to get you started: Toiletries • The two most important toiletry items are a toothbrush and toothpaste. Select toothpaste, such as ARM & HAMMER™ Sensitive Whitening, that whitens your teeth while you’re away. Available in travel size, it’s convenient to pack.

• Caring for your hair requires shampoo, conditioner, a hairbrush, comb and styling supplies. If your trip includes an airplane flight, make sure bottled liquids are no bigger than 3 ounces and are sealed inside a zip top bag, for your carry-on items.

• Other essentials include sunscreen, mosquito repellant, deodorant, soap, shaving supplies, moisturizer and lip balm.

Travel Essentials • Always travel with the essentials, such as your passport, driver’s license, itinerary, maps, membership cards, insurance information and travel confirmations.

• A guidebook or two is also helpful. Purchase a pocket-sized edition with a good map to take on your trip. Look less like a tourist by flagging important pages in advance.

• Everyone needs one good suitcase, but also bring along a backpack or crossbody bag for daytime touring and collapsible tote bag for souvenir shopping. Don’t forget to throw toothpaste in your daytime bag, such as ARM & HAMMER™ Sensitive Multi-Protection, to freshen up during long days of touring, and to protect teeth against tartar build-up.

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Family Features

• Today’s savvy traveler will need a laptop or tablet, camera, extra memory cards, music player, headphones and, of course, chargers for all your devices.

Snacks • No matter where you’re headed on vacation, snacks are always a great item to bring along. They cut down on food costs, keep kids happy and help everyone stay healthy. So, pack a small tote with trail mix, granola, energy bars, fresh fruit and crackers.

• If you plan to indulge in ice cream or other frosty treats, pack toothpaste for sensitive teeth, such as ARM & HAMMER™ Sensitive Freshening, and your mouth will feel cool and refreshed.

• Bring an empty water bottle with you on every trip to stay hydrated. Other items to pack for the hotel room are juices, teabags, gourmet coffee, bottled coffee drinks and powdered drink mixes.

A great packing list will help you to stay organized while getting ready for your trip. It also ensures that everything you brought on vacation makes it back into your bag for the trip home.

www.armandhammer.com

Fun Activities

for Moms, Kids to Enjoy Together

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

Family Features

With warm weather and kids’ freedom from school, there are extra opportunities for moms and kids to spend more time together.

Whether your children are toddlers or school age, it’s important to find fun ways to spend precious hours with one another.

Watch the magic of fireflies: Enjoy cool evening breezes, while watching the special magic fireflies bring to a backyard. Catch a few in a Mason jar, and then release them after the kids are tucked in for the night.

Here are a few activities those of all ages can enjoy: Put a twist on movie night: Summer blockbusters have families flooding theaters in droves. Pack the whole family in the car, pop some corn and catch a drive-in movie. It’s an old-fashioned experience every kid should enjoy at least once.

Pack a picnic: Take a picnic lunch on your next outdoor adventure.

Keep it simple, portable and healthy with good old peanut butter and jelly with healthy, delicious side dishes like baby carrots, sliced bell peppers and Dole Fruit Squish’ems squeezable fruit pouches.

From orchard to pouch, they are made with fresh apples from the USA, and are an easy on-the-go summer snack.

Blow bubbles for a crowd: Create a bubble station on your front porch and wait for the neighborhood kids to congregate. After all, there is just something so simple and nostalgic about bubbles that everyone loves

Play extreme tic-tac-toe: Make an easy craft project that can be enjoyed all summer long. Paint a tic-tac-toe board on an old beach towel, and then mark ten Frisbees with an X or O. Now, you’re ready to play Frisbee tic-tac-toe anywhere outdoors.

Take a hike: Spend time exploring nearby parks, lakes and arboretums with the kids. Pack plenty of water and healthy snacks, such as Dole Fruit Squish’ems, squeezable fruit pouches. Each serving has 60 calories and contains 20 percent of the daily value of vitamin C. Add an extra element of fun to your hike by going on a treasure hunt.

Keep them growing healthy: Pick a spot in the yard to create a small garden or plant a few vegetables in large pots. Those few moments caring for plants together each morning may just be the most precious ones of the day.

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To find out more about why kids ages 5-13 prefer Dole Fruit Squish’ems Apple and Apple Strawberry flavors over other brands, visit www.dole.com/fruitsquishems.

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.

Akerman has mastered these simple tips to make it all work:

TIPS

Family Features

for Multi-Tasking Moms

Even the most skilled multi-tasking working woman knows keeping everything on track is tough. From work schedules to social calendars to finding time for yourself, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut with a chaotic routine. Day to day is a challenge enough and that holds true for moms across America, even famous ones like actress Malin Akerman.

• Don’t Skip Breakfast. It’s important for the entire family to start the day off right. Breakfast gives you energy for the day and keeps you from caving into all the bad options when hunger hits mid-morning.

• Ready for Anything. Because of her hectic schedule, Akerman stocks the fridge with nutritious snacks that are easy to grab and go. Her favorite treat is new Müller FrütUp Mango, a creamy yogurt topped with whipped fruit mousse which she describes as pure bliss.

• Take a Stroll: Akerman always tries to stay active. She loves going on long evening walks with her husband and son.

Akerman admits the joy of motherhood and all of the increased activity that comes with it makes her balancing act tough, especially with her new role on the small screen. The ABC “Trophy Wife” star wants to make the right choices without sacrificing time, taste or nutrition, while savoring every moment with her baby and husband.

• Play Guessing Games: Akerman likes to keep her muscles guessing, so she is always changing up her exercise routine. Right now, her favorite exercises are cycling class or pilates.

“Now more than ever, I appreciate the little delights in each day. For me, that’s everything from getting to spend extra time with my family to enjoying my favorite snack during a break on set,” said Akerman. “I fell in love with Müller yogurt because it’s a delicious, nutritious snack that’s easy to grab and go.”

• Buddy-up: She really enjoys exercising outside in the summer. Akerman just grabs a girlfriend and goes for a hike. She loves that it keeps both of them on track.

For a behind-the-scenes look at Akerman’s daily routine, summer tips for a successful balancing act and a full line-up of tasty yogurt flavors, visit: www.Facebook.com/mullerquaker.

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Lower Your Cholesterol Easy Lifestyle Changes

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

Family Features

Eat a healthy diet Many people may believe that once they are taking a statin medication, they can resume their regular eating habits. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. To achieve healthy cholesterol levels, it’s important to eat wholesome foods rich in essential nutrients that will help nourish your body, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.

“Eliminate butter, trans fat and saturated fats from your kitchen,” said Grotto. “When cooking, opt for canola and olive oil instead. In general, add foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to your diet, as this ‘good’ fat can help lower your ‘bad,’ or LDL cholesterol levels.”

Statin medications work on an ongoing basis, so make sure you stick to the prescribed dosage. Speak with your health care provider or pharmacist to ensure your medications and supplements can be taken together. In addition, make sure to check in with your doctor as dosage adjustments may be required over time.

For more information on Nature Made CholestOff Plus, visit www. naturemade.com and for more heart healthy tips from Grotto, visit www.davegrotto.com. *Products containing at least 400 mg per serving of plant sterols and stanols, eaten twice a day with meals for a daily intake of at least 800 mg as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease. One serving of Nature Made CholestOff® supplies 900 mg of plant sterols and stanols per serving for a daily intake of 1800 mg.

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The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) also recommends 2,000 milligrams of plant sterols and stanols as part of a therapeutic diet to help lower cholesterol*. Plant sterols and stanols are naturally present in small quantities of vegetable oils, nuts, legumes and whole grains; however, most people only consume about 200 milligrams through their regular diet.

*This annuity is issued by Bankers Life Insurance Company (Bankers” ), 11101 Roosevelt Blvd. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33716 (dba. Western Bankers Life Insurance Company in Texas). This annuity has certain limitations and potential penalties, which are fully set forth in the agreement governing the annuity. Interest rates areTHE current at the time of 5 publication and are subject to change.

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There are dietary supplements that may help lower your cholesterol*. Grotto recommends looking for quality supplements from trusted brands verified by a credible third-party organization, such as the United States Pharmacopeia (USP). He has partnered with Nature Made®, the first national vitamin brand in the U.S. to earn United States Pharmacopeia (USP) verification on many of its products. “I always recommend Nature Made CholestOff® Plus* to my patients because CholestOff Plus is clinically proven to lower cholesterol in just six weeks and provides an additional 1,800 milligrams of plant sterols and stanols to help meet the NCEP recommendation for cholesterol reduction. Nature Made is also the number one recommended brand among pharmacists in eight key product categories† including Cholesterol Management- Natural,” said Grotto.

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†Based on US News & World Report - Pharmacy Times Survey for Letter Vitamins, Omega-3/Fish Oil, Coenzyme Q10, Flax Seed Oil, Herbal supplements, Cholesterol Management-Natural, Garlic (tie) and Diabetic Multivitamins (tie).

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David Grotto, registered dietitian and best-selling author of “The Best Things You Can Eat,” has shared a few tips for those who need advice on how to support their overall health, including ways to help lower cholesterol naturally*.

Stick to your prescription regimen and talk to your doctor

Independent research firm, Crescendo Business Services, in partnership with Sarasota magazine, surveyed over 20,500 Tamiami Trail,Services Suite B,Professionals Sarasota Fl 34231 High-Net Worth households and more8181 than S. 1900 Financial to determine which Wealth Managers scored highest in satisfaction. This list represents less than 4 percent of the Wealth Managers in the Sarasota area. For more information on the FIVE STAR award and selection process, go to: www.fivestarprofessional.com/wmresearch *This annuity is issued by Bankers Life Insurance Company (Bankers” ), 11101 Roosevelt Blvd. N., St. Securities offered through Investors Capital Corporation. Advisory Services offered through Investors Capital Advisory.

Petersburg, FL 33716 (dba. Western Bankers Life Insurance Company in Texas). This annuity has certain 230 Broadway, Lynnfield, MA which 01940,are(800) 949-1422, Member FINRA/SIPC. limitations and potential penalties, fully set forth in the agreement governing the annuity. Interest rates are current at the time of publication and are subject to change. Decreasing withdrawal or surrender penaltiesÊmayÊapplyÊoverÊÞveÊyears.ÊBankersÊdoesÊnotÊgiveÊtaxÊorÊlegalÊadviceÊandÊhasÊnotÊauthorizedÊanyÊ ofÊ itsÊ agentsÊ toÊ giveÊ taxÊ orÊ legalÊ advice.Ê ForÊ taxÊ and/orÊ legalÊ advice,Ê pleaseÊ consultÊ aÊ qualiÞedÊ advisor.Ê Bankers is not connected with and does not represent in any way the Social Security Administration or any department, agency or authority of the United States government or any state, local or municipal government. Not FDIC insured.

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Maintaining a healthy cholesterol level is an important part of good health. While many Americans try to keep their cholesterol in check, some take medication to improve it. According to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly one in four American adults currently take statin medications to help reduce their cholesterol levels.

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Fashion & Style

Tiffany 1& Co. 3

Collection 20

Diamonds and Colored Gemstones Capture the Sea’s Ever-Changing Splendor

JEAN SCHLUMBERGER TASSELS NECKLACE Tassels necklace of turquoise and diamonds in 18 karat gold and platinum by Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co.

Tiffany’s master designers and artisans explore the endless blue of the ocean and beyond, creating a wealth of jewels that infuse fashion with glorious color and romantic allure. A bracelet of aquamarines and diamonds mirrors pristine pools shimmering in the moonlight. The stones smoothly transition from emerald-cut aquamarines to brilliant-cut diamonds. Such grace and fluidity is echoed in a diamond tiara that celebrates the sea’s majesty with Montana sapphires set in a scroll design unfurling between a narrow platinum band and ribbon motif.

With their legendary beauty and fire, Tiffany diamonds are the shining light of this magical seascape. Tiers of rose-cut diamonds and plumes of pear-shaped stones shape elegant earrings that are well articulated and undulate with the rhythm of the waves. Other dramatic drop earrings with green and blue tourmalines embody the ocean’s mysterious depths; and opera-length necklaces of diamonds and sapphires evoke the boundless blue of the horizon.

www.tiffany.com 34 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

TIFFANY BUTTERFLY BROOCH Tiffany butterfly brooch of enamel and diamonds in platinum and 18 karat gold TIFFANY DIAMOND AND SAPPHIRE TASSEL NECKLACE Tiffany sapphire tassel necklace with diamonds in platinum

JEAN SCHLUMBERGER DIAMOND AND GEMSTONE BRACELETS Bracelets in platinum and 18 karat gold by Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co. (from top): hand-carved turquoise and lapis lazuli with diamonds; drape bracelet with hand-carved turquoise, diamonds and pearls; hand-carved lapis lazuli with diamonds.

Photos courtesy of Š Tiffany & Co.

TIFFANY DIAMOND EARRINGS Tiffany earrings with pear-shaped diamonds in platinum

TIFFANY DIAMOND AND PEARL RINGS Tiffany rings of cultured south sea white, golden and tahitian pearls in diamond and platinum settings. From top.

TIFFANY DIAMOND BRACELET AND EARRINGS Tiffany diamond drop earrings and a diamond bracelet in platinum

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Fashion & Style

Carrera y Carrera Sculptural jewels of great movement in which all the firm’s savoir-faire is reflected.

Impressive work represented in rings, earrings, and pendants crafted in yellow gold, yellow gold with diamonds, and white gold with diamonds.

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Diamonds became a source of inspiration and the essential stars of this era due to the fascination they caused. Jewelry in white gold with diamonds and yellow gold with diamonds, perfect for sealing an eternal commitment. A romantic collection where gold plays a fundamental role and diamonds give an infinite purity to the pieces.Known as the Golden Age, this era is enshrined as one of the brightest and most fruitful periods of art in Spain. It was a shout to all the senses, to expression in all the arts, and to the grandeur of a rising empire that for over a century became the center of the art world.

The glorious past of the Spanish Empire and jewelry art is reborn in this new collection. Carrera y Carrera has designed four creative lines: Reina, Velazquez, Isabel and Cervantes. Luxury, art, and grace are accurately reflected in pieces of extreme beauty.

Exquisitely carved works of great personality.

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1. Isabel Ring in White Gold and Diamond 2. Isabel Earrings in White Gold and Diamonds 3. Ecuestre pendant in yellow gold, amethyst and diamonds 4. Cervantes Ring in Yellow Gold and Diamonds 5. Reina Maxi Ring in Yellow and White Gold with Diamonds 6. Cervantes Bracelet in Yellow Gold and Diamonds 7. Cervantes Ring in Yellow Gold and Diamonds Page Photo. Olivia Palermo with Isabel pieces

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By Photography Camilo GERMAIN-VIHEL

Style & Beauty Luxury handcrafted sandals made with 100% genuine leather and imported silk chiffon.

Versatile ankle wrap designs that can be styled in several ways with comfortable latex midsole sandals and non-slip wraps.

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THE IMPOSSIBLE PROJECT The Impossible Project Instant Lab. Transfer any iPhone image to an instant vintage-style photo print. The Instant Lab combines old and new technology to allow people to capture priceless memories in a timeless way, $299. In Nordstrom At Home at select Nordstrom stores and nordstrom.com.

Chamomile is a soothing ingredient that works to eliminate ruddiness, puffiness and inflammation, while improving skin tone and elasticity. It’s also ideal for soothing sensitive skin!

Repêchage Hydra Medic Mattifying Moisturizer ($39, Repêchage.com) uses chamomile to prevent shine and breakouts while calming irritated skin and reducing redness.

Aspen Yoga Mats are custom embroidered yoga mats that come in 5 colors with 5 embroidered designs. Choose the color mat by reading about your personality traits on our label. Match the color with the embroidered design that speaks to you: Laughing Buddha, Orchid Branch, Yin/Yang, Aspen Leaf or BALANCE. Aspen Yoga Mats are: comfortable and easy to clean, retails for $49.95 or less Get yours at www.aspenyogamats.com

SWIMS, the utmost in versatile footwear and a great option for beach and boating enthusiasts. Made with adaptable and breathable nylon and since they are entirely water-resistant, you can even throw them in your washing machine! The loafers also feature an anti-slip, natural rubber and non-marking sole and EVA insole with ventilation system. WWW.SWIMS.COM

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Sunflower’s calming and antioxidant rich properties work to hydrate and nourish the skin, prevent wrinkles and premature aging and fight against breakouts and free radical damage. jane iredale – THE SKIN CARE MAKEUP® harnesses this powerful ingredient in their Active Light Under-Eye Concealer ($27, shop. janeiredale.com), which reduces inflammation and puffiness around the eyes, disguises wrinkles, dark circles and deep creases and nourishes the delicate eye area.

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Make Your Movie Night

Family Features

It’s that time of year again when the year’s biggest movies begin invading theaters. But big movies can also mean big lines and big bucks.

Sometimes, it’s just more convenient and affordable to have a movie night at home. Hosting an athome movie night can be even more fun than taking a trip to the theater if you make it a “Modern Movie Night.” Here are some tips to help put a new spin on a movie night at home: Plan Ahead – The official Redbox mobile app lets you browse movies and reserve them for pickup, right from your phone. You can even see which boxes have your favorite movies. Pick the closest box and a copy will be reserved for you.

Let’s Make A Deal – Enjoy a delicious, cool Mars Ice Cream treat while you watch your movie. Mars Ice Cream is providing a code for a free one-night DVD rental from Redbox printed on the inside of specially marked packages of Snickers, Twix, M&M’S and Milky Way ice cream bars.

Spruce Up Your Snacks – One of the best things about the theater experience is the delicious snacks. But you can make what you eat at home just as good by putting a modern spin on old favorites. For example, once your popcorn has cooled, add M&M’S to give it a colorful, delicious new look.

Digital Movie Buzz – Don’t just plop on the couch for the evening. Get together with family and friends and enjoy some digital fun before the movie starts.

Guess The Movie app or MovieCat challenge you with quizzes and classic movie questions. You can even compare your own review of favorite movies with scores from Rotten Tomatoes.

If the flick is a bust, live tweet funny commentary while you watch or write your own movie reviews at moviequotesandmore.com. Try playing the popular movie trivia game SceneIt or play Charades using Vine video clips. You can also check out cast info on the IMDB app. End the evening with a movie discussion and your house may become everyone’s favorite home theater.

FOCUS of SWFL 2013 41

Family Features

A

s more Americans make strides towards responsible spending and debt management, there are still ways to improve the control of family finances.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

According to a survey recently conducted by Bank of America, less than half of cardholders always pay their entire credit card balance. With more than half of individuals carrying credit card debt, Jason Gaughan, card products executive for Bank of America, said to think about personal spending before taking on a credit card.

“Credit cards provide consumers an efficient and protected way to make purchases,” said Gaughan. “They are more convenient than cash and they are incredibly useful in an emergency. The key to successfully managing your credit card account is to understand your budget and stick to a plan that works for you when borrowing. You want a card with a rewards program that fits your lifestyle and how you manage your finances. If you typically carry a balance, look for a card that has low interest and reinforces good payment practices.”

Along with these practices, there are other ways to promote good spending and personal finance habits, such as: Limit Number of Credit Cards Limiting the number of cards you own can help limit your spending and increase the likelihood you can pay above the minimum balance. Before you start cutting up your plastic, remember having more than one credit card can have merits. One idea is to have three cards: one in a safe place at home for emergencies and two with you at all times.

Reap the Rewards Use the rewards programs available to credit card holders to cash in on things your family really needs. Some cards, such as the BankAmericard Cash Rewards credit card, let you earn more cash back where you spend the most money, like gas stations and grocery stores. The BankAmericard Better Balance Rewards credit card helps customers responsibly manage their credit card balance. Whatever rewards you are seeking, there is likely to be a card suitable for you.

Evaluate All Debts Many carry debts beyond credit cards, including student loans, car payments and mortgages. Evaluate your debts and decide which ones have the highest interest rates.

Making it a priority to pay down these debts first will save you more money in the long run.

Create a Budget It’s never too soon to put yourself in control of your money and stop letting it control you. A budget will give you financial peace of mind and it can help you stretch the income you have. Calculate your income and expenses and set your monthly budget.

Though you may not be on-point every month, the simple act of tracking your spending will be a huge step forward in your quest towards responsible spending.

Infographic courtesy of Bank of America

42 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

www.bankofamerica.com/creditcard

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Volunteering Builds Communities, Improves Lives

The opportunities to help your community are endless. It’s as easy as linking your talents with causes you are passionate about or that have affected you personally.

With so many charitable causes and organizations, it’s easy to find a volunteer opportunity that’s perfect for you. According to research conducted by the Corporation for National and Community Service, those who volunteer have lower mortality rates, reported more self-worth and had fewer cases of depression. And the positive benefits don’t end there.

Volunteering also promotes the feelings of accomplishment and personal fulfillment rarely found in other activities.

Though the list of volunteer activities is vast, here are a few causes that can be found in most communities: • Give blood: Due to accidents or illnesses, thousands of people are in need of blood each day. Organize or participate in a blood drive at your church, social group or school.

You can also volunteer at the local bank within your community.

• Build homes: Do you enjoy using your hands and being outdoors? Organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity, utilize volunteer labor, material donations and monetary support to build and rehabilitate houses for families in need of decent shelter. To support this cause, M&M’S Brand has created the M’Prove America movement, and will provide more than $500,000 to help build Habitat homes across the country. The brand is also rallying Americans to donate their time and talents to help build Habitat homes.

• Adopt a family: Natural disasters wreak havoc on communities, destroying homes and lives. Many organizations help families who’ve lost their homes and belongings by providing assistance with clothing, personal hygiene products and other necessities to get them back on their feet. Such organizations also look for assistance during the holidays to ensure children and parents aren’t forgotten during the season of giving. Get a group of friends together and consider adopting a family in need.

• Help at food bank: Hunger has become a national epidemic, touching lives in almost every region of America. Many volunteer opportunities are available for this worthy cause.

Consider helping at a food kitchen to serve the hungry directly, box up food shipments for other banks or start a food drive competition with co-workers to see who can give the most.

A simple online search will point you in the direction of the perfect volunteer opportunities that fit your lifestyle. Many sites also offer interactive ways to show your pride and involvement in the cause. One such site has been designed for the M&M’S Brand partnership with Habitat for Humanity. To learn more about how you can get involved and pledge hours to volunteer, visit www.mproveamerica.com.

Family Features

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.net

Chico’s is pleased to announce that it will join forces with Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) to support innovative cancer research.

The heart has always been at the core of Chico’s, whose passion for charitable giving has continued to grow for over 30 years. For this collaboration, the company created an exclusive, limited-edition anniversary scarf in Chico’s iconic leopard print, which will be sold at Chico’s boutiques and outlets across the country. With every limited-edition leopard print scarf purchase from now through October 31st, Chico’s will donate $10 to Stand Up To Cancer (up to $150,000), the charitable initiative that supports groundbreaking cancer research focused on getting new treatments to patients quickly.

For 30 years, Chico’s has helped women look as fabulous as they feel. Chic silhouettes, signature prints, artisan jackets, and wrinkle-free Travelers collection have built a passionate following—and the combination of fabulous style, one-of-a-kind details, and amazing, personal service has captured the hearts of women nationwide.

"I’m thrilled about our new collaboration with Stand Up To Cancer.” says Cinny Murray, Chico’s Brand President. “It’s a fabulous movement doing amazing work to support innovative cancer research. Chico’s, together with our customers, is happy to have this opportunity to support such an important effort.”

Stand Up To Cancer is changing the culture of cancer research through its unique funding model, which facilitates collaboration among scientists in different disciplines and at different institutions. Five hundred researchers at 101 institutions are currently involved in SU2C-funded research.

“We are deeply grateful to Chico’s for helping get Stand Up To Cancer’s core message out to shoppers all over the country: that each and every one of us can make a difference in this fight,” said SU2C Co-founder Sherry Lansing.

www.chicos.com 50 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

Supercharging Florida TESLA

52 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

By Scott Black

W

hat uses your foot to start, gets to 60mph in 4.2 seconds and requires no gas to get around?

This should be an easy one... The Tesla Model S. Tesla Motors expands its promise by adding additional Model S Supercharging stations in Florida. A sedan from a California based company keeping promises and changing the way we think about automotive travel.

Photos courtesy of Tesla Motors

I don’t need to get into the many awards and praises received from not only journalist worldwide, but owners as well. Being the world’s first mass produced electric vehicle, the Model S catches the eye of many. Being the second model from Tesla Motors, the Model S is the world’s first premium sedan constructed from the ground up as an electric vehicle and has been engineered to elevate the public’s expectations of what a premium sedan can be. Get the idea? At the heart of Model S is the proven Tesla powertrain, improved from the Tesla Roadster.

vehicle in the world; producing an impressive 443 pound-feet of instant torque, propelling the Model S Performance to 60 in as little as 4.2 seconds, with the base model getting to 60 in 5.4 seconds. If you have been using a cell phone in the past 5 years, you can drive this car. The touch screen is very large coming in at 17 inches; the menus are easy to see and provides lot of details about vehicle features and operations.

Tesla Motors continues to deliver with the launch of two more new Model S Supercharger stations on the southwest coast of Florida. Tesla invited local Model S owners to the grand opening, providing food, vehicle charging, updates and informative details. One of the new Supercharging stations located at the Gulf Coast Town Center Mall in Fort Myers, the other in Port St. Lucie, not too far from a wonderful golf course. All are very close to many amenities to make either your visit or daily travels a breeze. The other Supercharger stations are located in Miami, Tampa, Daytona Beach, and Orlando.

The powertrain was developed to deliver both exceptional range and a thrilling driving experience. The Model S offers the responsiveness and agility expected from the world’s best sports cars and at the same time providing ride quality of a luxury performance sedan.

The company started back in 2003 with a concept, seen impossible by most to re-think what is not just possible, but environmentally friendly. As compared with combustion engines, one of the challenges the Model S faced was range. Sitting beneath the floorboard for a lower center of gravity, Tesla Motors developed the most energy-dense battery pack in the industry with best-inclass aerodynamics for a sedan. Giving the Model S an EPA rated range of 265-miles—the longest range of any production electric

FOCUS of SWFL 2013 53

These Supercharger stations allow Model S owners to travel free of charge in the state of Florida and soon from state to state as Tesla installs more Supercharger stations throughout the country. All stations are located near many convenient amenities; being strategically placed to permit owners the ability to drive from station to station with minimal stops. The Supercharger stations are substantially more powerful than any technology to date, providing up to 120 kilowatts of power. This will allow Model S owners to charge their vehicles in 20 minutes to half capacity or about 150 miles of range. Tesla fast-charging stations will be about 100 to 120 miles apart. Located within major metropolitan areas and Tesla Motors aim is to have more of these stations on a national level within the next few years.

What does this mean? For one you can use your Model S for more long distance designations without staying close to home for recharging. Second, owners now have the ability to use it for daily commuting in their local community. Drive to a location, do some shopping and before you’re done your vehicle has added range. It cost you nothing to drive it! No gas, no oil changes and tons of space. It’s just an amazing car… At the time of this article, Tesla demonstrated a “quick battery change” option.

This option allows a Model S owner to pull up to a designated location and receive a complete battery change in less than 2 minutes. This demo was to indicate the capabilities and ease of use of the Tesla Model S.

Tesla Motors has come a long way since the Roadster and has shown a commitment to its owners and interested parties.

Tesla Motors has taken a concept and has brought it through to completion, by fully understanding and listening to its buyers and common everyday issues. Tesla Motors creates vehicles that are not only luxuriously appointed, roomy and fast but is as easy to use as your cell phone or iPad. And now you can drive around without spending a penny on gas, a truly 21st century forward thinking technology.

For most drivers accustomed to hearing exhaust notes, engine revs and conducting fluid changes, this will be a significant change, but once you test this car or the new crossover, it will revolutionize the way you think about automotive travel. The range question has been answered.

As battery technology gets better, it may be possible to provide current owners a higher capacity battery for increased range.

The same as what you would do to increase the talk time on your cell phone.

Later this year Tesla Motors will be promoting a pre-release of the Model X. The Model X is an all-wheel drive family crossover completely designed for the SUV segment. Expected to have the same range as the Model S, but at a much more competitive price this SUV is designed with what Tesla calls “Falcon” doors for rear passenger entry and exit and seats 7 adults with the capacity to hold a full assortment of luggage or groceries. Anticipated to have the same range and responsiveness as the Model S and acceleration under 5 seconds, coupled with Supercharging stations makes this the next family SUV.

www.teslamotors.com

We sit down with Alexis Georgeson from Tesla Motors to discuss the future of supercharging.

What would be Tesla’s goal for the future of Supercharging?

AG: Tesla installs Superchargers on major corridors connecting city centers. Tesla is continuing to expand the Supercharger network to provide free, convenient long distance travel for Model S owners. Our goal is to enable customers to drive their Model S wherever they wish to go; between Boston and Miami, LA and New York, or Vancouver to Phoenix- with ease and convenience.

How many more Supercharging stations are planned for the state of Florida?

AG: We plan to have a total of seven Supercharger stations open in Florida by the end of the year.

Are there more planned dealer/service networks in 2014-15 within the state?

We are always looking for new store locations where we have the opportunity to engage and educate people about Model S and service locations where we can better attend to our customers and make convenience a priority. However I can't speak to specific locations at this time.

With the quick change battery option, will that be offered at selected locations for owners?

AG: Yes, battery swapping will be available at Supercharger locations.

How do you see the future of battery and recharging when it comes to vehicle range?

AG: At the core of Tesla is a technology company that will continue to innovate and push the boundaries for vehicle and battery technology.

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ART NEWS

Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy Ahoy me treasured mate! I prithee 'SAVE THE DATE', for a voyage on the whim-sea, Taking in some new boot-tee. The Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy will be having their 4th grand re-opening party on Saturday, October 19th, from 6PM to 8PM. Thar'll be some light provisions to accompany this exhibition. In case you need a reason to celebrate our 4th season. Note: Pirate or Mermaid attire is at your discretion.

The Museum owns artwork from more than 60 artists. Many of the artists will be attending. Most of the artists are Americans from Florida and the Northeast with several from Canada and Haiti. The artwork tends to be light hearted and fun with fresh, colorful, creative, and upbeat ideas. There is a beautiful garden in the back that comes alive at night with lights.

Marietta Museum of Art & Whimsy The Museum will be fully open to the public beginning October 24, 2013.

2121 North Tamiami Trail The Museum is a 501©3 non profit private operating foundation.

Sarasota, FL 34234 941.364.3399

www.whimsymuseum.org

PATH TO WELLNESS 5K RUN/WALK

Photography by Todd Cordisco, SalusCare, inc.

Registration is now open for walkers and runners to participate in the Third Annual Path to Wellness 5K Run/Walk planned for Saturday, Oct. 5 at Lakes Park in Fort Myers.

The event will benefit the Lee County Chapter of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) and SalusCare, the new not-for-profit formed by the merger of Lee Mental Health and Southwest Florida Addiction Services (SWFAS).

More than 300 people are expected to turn out for the race, which begins at 8:30 a.m., rain or shine. Race results and timing provided by 3D Racing, Inc., of Cape Coral.

Registration is $20 for walkers and $25 for runners and may be made online at www. active.com through October 4. Same day registration is available at Lakes Park for an additional $5.

N RATIO T S I G E

OPEN

R

www.SalusCareFlorida.org

T-shirts are guaranteed to the first 200 registrants. Awards will be given to the top three finishers in each age division for both males and females.

Major sponsors of the Path to Wellness are the Fort Myers Police Department and Park Royal Hospital with support from Genoa Healthcare, Lee Memorial Health System and Susan Bennett Marketing & Media.

NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to improving the lives of persons living with serious mental illness and their families.

Founded in 1979, NAMI has become the nation’s voice on mental illness, a national organization including NAMI organizations in every state and in over 1100 local communities across the country who join together to meet the NAMI mission through advocacy, research, support, and education. For more information, visit www.namilee.org SalusCare was formed July 1 with the merger of Lee Mental Health and Southwest Florida Addiction Services into one new non-profit organization. SalusCare offers outpatient and residential treatment for individuals with mental illness and substance use disorders from seven locations in Lee County and one in Hendry County.

The multi-faceted agency also offers detoxification services for adults, prevention programming and an Employee Assistance Program for about 60 area companies.

The majority of programs are accredited

by CARF, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. SalusCare is a United Way agency. For more information, call 239-332-6937.

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E

Syst matic

P rformance

Mercedes-AMG is unleashing the all-new 2014 S63 AMG 4MATIC. The most powerful high-performance sedan in the luxury segment sets new standards in terms of driving dynamics, lightweight construction and efficiency. The AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine – the most powerful member of the M157 engine family, with an output of 577 hp and torque of 664 lb-ft – delivers effortlessly superior performance. Thanks to systematic lightweight construction based on the "AMG Lightweight Performance" philosophy, the 2014 S63 AMG 4MATIC is up to 220 pounds lighter than its predecessor. A new standard feature on the 2014 model is the performanceoriented AMG all-wheel-drive 4MATIC system.

This not only enhances traction but represents a new dimension in driving dynamics in its segment. The design, equipment and appointments of the 2014 S63 AMG 4MATIC meets the highest standards in terms of high-class appeal, quality and perfection, and will be available in U.S. showrooms in November 2013.

Following the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series, the S63 AMG 4MATIC is the second AMG high-performance model to replace the conventional starter battery with a lithium-ion bat-

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By Mai Yomioto

tery. The new technology offers numerous advantages over a conventional battery concept: with a capacity of 78 Ah, the lithium-ion battery replaces both the starter battery and the backup battery – resulting in a weight saving of over 44 pounds. The high-performance battery is relatively resilient in cold temperatures and has compact dimensions. The S63 AMG 4MATIC is the world's first volume-produced vehicle with this type of battery concept.

Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "Following the successful launch of the A45 AMG and the CLA45 AMG, the new S63 AMG 4MATIC highlights our expertise in the automotive high-end segment. Lightweight construction and absolute performance are among the key strengths of the new flagship model from Mercedes-AMG. The new S63 AMG 4MATIC likewise leads the way when it comes to perfection, high-class appeal and quality. We are also offering the S63 AMG 4MATIC with the performance-oriented AMG all-wheel drive system 4MATIC for the first time to target new markets: the S63 AMG 4MATIC is just the ticket for customers who attach importance to four-wheel drive due to weather conditions."

Photos courtesy of Daimler AG

Tobias Moers, Head of Overall Vehicle Development and Board Member of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "We have unquestionably achieved our aim of making the new S63 AMG 4MATIC more powerful, lightweight and efficient than its predecessor. In terms of driving dynamics as well, the S63 AMG 4MATIC has made giant leaps forward – not least thanks to the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive."

The S63 AMG 4MATIC also leads the way when it comes to powerto-weight ratio, boasting a figure of 7.9 lbs/hp, resulting in effortlessly superior performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes 3.9 seconds and the top speed is 186 mph (electronically limited).

Systematic implementation of the AMG Lightweight Performance strategy reduces the weight of the S63 AMG 4MATIC by up to 220 pounds compared to the predecessor model. In terms of maximum output and fuel consumption, the AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine remains the most efficient series-produced V8 engine of all. With an output of 577 hp and a torque of 664 lb-ft, the AMG eight-cylinder motor from the M157 engine family outperforms all comparable engines. The fuel consumption of the new S63 AMG 4MATIC is lower than its predecessor, even though the engine output has been increased by 49 hp.

Powerful and exclusive, dramatic and prestigious – the S63 AMG 4MATIC makes a visual impression.

With a defined and impressive blend of hallmark Mercedes sensual forms, classic architecture and a sleek silhouette with classic AMG design features. Like the exterior design, the S63 AMG 4MATIC interior is a sophisticated combination of the athletic atmosphere of a true AMG automobile with classic Mercedes values such as improved interior dimensions, new control logic, new ergonomic touches, ease of use, safety, appeal and aesthetics. Fine nappa leather in AMG V8 design with lavish perforations and AMG badges in the front and rear seat backrests create an exquisite and luxurious atmosphere on board.

The all-new 2014 S63 AMG 4MATIC celebrates its world premiere in September, the U.S. market launch will be in November 2013.

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By Marie-Louise Fritz

Bugatti, a brand with a rich history unique in the car industry, is celebrating its heroes. The French luxury marque will bring out an exclusive edition, “Les Légendes de Bugatti” (Bugatti Legends), to Bildunterschriften / Captions commemorate the renowned names which have played a crucial role in its history and which have helped creating its mystique.

In the 90th anniversary year of the 24 Heures du Mans, the first Legend is dedicated to a personality who is central to the history of motor sports and intimately linked with the Bugatti company: Jean-Pierre Wimille, who garnered two victories for Bugatti at Le Mans. The Bugatti Legend “Jean-Pierre Wimille” will make its début in the eyes of the world at the US The Quail/Pebble Beach weekend taking place from 16 to 18 August. The next twelve months will see the launch of six individual Bugatti Legends based on the Bugatti Grand Sport Vitesse.

LES LÉGENDES DE BUGATTI “JEAN-PIERRE WIMILLE”

Download Pressebilder // Download Press images:

Dr. Wolfgang Schreiber, President of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S.: “This brand has been in large part defined by outstanding personalities and historically resonant moments. We want to tell the story of the brand through these Bugatti legends, and at the same time create a link between its past and presence.”

The Bugatti Legend “Jean-Pierre Wimille” relates to the successes of the eponymous racing driver who won Bugatti two victories at the 24 Heures du Mans: in 1937, driving a Bugatti 57G Tank co-piloted by Robert Benoist, and repeating the feat in 1939, this time supported by Pierre Veyron in a 57C Tank.

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The winning race car from 1937 is the inspiration behind the design of the “Jean-Pierre Wimille” Bugatti Legend. For the historic race the 57G Tank appeared in the racing blue finish that habitually identified French racing cars. Accordingly, this Vitesse now shines in blue clear-coated carbon fiber and a light Wimille Bleu paintwork finish.

The color scheme is continued in the supercar’s interior, as Achim Anscheidt, chief designer at Bugatti, explains: “The materials and colors selected, as well as a host of details, all reference the essential characteristics of the classic models driven by those figures to whom our edition pays homage. In each case, this care has resulted in vehicles in which the authenticity of the past is combined with the modern design, the sportive superlative and the luxurious comfort of Bugatti as an icon of the present. With these Bugatti Legends we are giving history a modern makeover.”

The six Bugatti Legends are all based on the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport Vitesse. This super sports car, launched in Spring 2012, is officially the fastest series roadster in the world with the top down. Centered around an eight-litre W16 engine delivering 1,200 HP, the Vitesse produces unequalled maximum torque of 1,106 lb-ft (at 3,000 – 5,000 rpm), and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a lightening 2.4 seconds.

The production run for the Bugatti Legend “Jean-Pierre Wimille” will be limited to three vehicles.

Jean-Pierre Wimille (1908 – 1949), two-time Le Mans winner for Bugatti.

1937 – Jean-Pierre Wimille and Robert Benoist after winning Le Mans for Bugatti for the first time.

About Jean-Pierre Wimille

The factory drivers “Williams“, Veyron (from left) and Wimille (far right) with Jean Bugatti (between them) in front of the Type 57G Tank.

Jean-Pierre Wimille was one of the longest-serving test drivers at Bugatti. The son of a journalist, he was born in Paris on 26 February 1908 and drove almost exclusively for Bugatti throughout his racing career. With a number of victories already under his belt, in 1933 Ettore Bugatti invited him to take up the position of official test driver for the brand. He joined Bugatti at a point when its last great racing triumphs lay a few years in the past, making the string of victories he brought home to Molsheim over the following years even more significant. In his very first year he came first in the Algerian Grand Prix, then in 1935 he collected the title in the then-famous hill climb at La Turbie near Nice driving a T 59, following this with a second place in the Tunisian Grand Prix and fourth place in Spain.

And it was Jean-Pierre Wimille who brought Bugatti what was to be its last ever racing number one, in 1947 at the Bois de Boulogne, behind the wheel of a 4.7 litre Monoposto Type 59/50 B. Wimille was a world-class driver, who played a key role at Bugatti, especially as the brand’s racing era came to an end.

His greatest racing achievement was without doubt his twin victories for Bugatti at Le Mans. He died in a car crash in 1949 in Buenos Aires.

60 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

Into

the

Future

by Mai Yomioto

Rising to the challenges of the automotive future, Mercedes-AMG has “electrified” the motion of going forward. The SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive showcases state-of-the-art development of an exciting super sports car with a zero-emission high-tech drivetrain. Boasting a power output to (sitting down) 751 HP and 738 lb-ft of torque, talk about exceptional performance. The gullwing with electric drive is part of the company strategy entitled "AMG Performance 2015" which aims to continually reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

Mercedes-AMG is providing a glimpse of its latest vehicle - a powerful and locally emission-free super sports car. Finished in fluorescent "AMG lumilectric magno" paint, the gullwing offers a glimpse into the innovative strength and development expertise of the AMG performance brand.

"We take social responsibility very seriously and with the SLS AMG Electric Drive we are demonstrating a further milestone in our "AMG Performance 2015" strategy. It is our goal to continually reduce the fuel consumption and emissions of new models in the coming years, while at the same time enhancing the core brand value of performance", explains Ola Källenius. With the SLS AMG Electric Drive, the performance brand of Mercedes-Benz is launching a totally innovative drivetrain for super sports cars, reaching new territory in this market segment.

The transformation from gasoline to electric super sports car also called for some specific changes to the interior. As a result, the AMG instrument cluster and center console in particular both feature a new design. The new AMG instrument cluster provides information on speed, charge status of the battery and the estimated range. The newly designed center console now houses a 10-inch touchscreen, which driver and passenger can use to conveniently operate all of the audio, climate and navigation functions, and also obtain information on the flow of power from the four electric motors.

The interior appointments are dominated by high-quality premium leather in a black/white color combination - it has been used not only on the sports seats, the performance leather/alcantara steering wheel and the door linings, but also on the broad center console which runs towards the back of the vehicle between the seats.

Four motors, four wheels – the intelligent and permanent all-wheel drive of the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive guarantees driving dynamics of the highest caliber, while at the same time providing the best possible active 62 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

safety. Optimum traction of the four driven wheels is therefore ensured, whatever the weather conditions. According to the developers, the term "AMG Torque Dynamics" refers to individual control of the electric motors, something which enables completely new levels of freedom to be achieved. The AMG Torque Dynamics feature is permanently active and allows for selective distribution of power to each individual wheel. The intelligent distribution of drive torque has a beneficial effect on driving dynamics, handling, driving safety and ride comfort. Each individual wheel can be both electrically driven and electrically braked in accordance with the specific driving situation, thus helping to optimize vehicle’s dynamics and ease of driving characteristics.

The ground-breaking drive system boasts some impressive highlights: powerful traction is provided by four synchronous electric motors with a combined peak output of 751 hp and a maximum torque of 738 lb-ft.

The four compact electric motors each achieve a maximum rpm of 13,000 rpm and are positioned near the wheels. As a result, compared with wheel-hub motors the unsprung masses are substantially reduced.

One transmission per axle transmits the power.

The AMG Torque Dynamics feature boasts a high degree of variability and individuality by offering three different driving modes: • Comfort (C): comfortable, forgiving driving characteristics • Sport (S): sporty, balanced driving characteristics • Sport plus (S+): sporty, very agile driving characteristics

Further driving excitement is provided by the agile accelerator response and straight-line performance: unlike the combustion engine, torque build-up with an electric motor is instantaneous - maximum torque is available virtually from a standstill. The spontaneous torque build-up and effortless power delivery - which does not diminish by any interruption of tractive power - are combined with engine running characteristics which are totally free of vibration. Four motors, four wheels: the intelligent and permanent all-wheel drive of the electric SLS guarantees driving dynamics at the highest level, while at the same time providing the best possible active safety. All four driven wheels achieve optimal traction, independent of weather conditions.

When it comes to dynamics, the electrically-powered SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive makes more than a statement: the gull-wing model accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. This very special gullwing is therefore able to "electrify" the driver with a completely unique, effortlessly superior and emotional super sports car driving experience.

A new dimension of driving performance – the AMG brand pledge is fulfilled to remarkable effect by the outstanding performance dynamics, which come courtesy of AMG Torque Dynamics and are made possible by the wheel selective all-wheel drive. The most "electrifying" gullwing model ever has been developed in-house by Mercedes-AMG GmbH. The extremely powerful high voltage battery for the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive is the result of the collaboration between Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth in the UK and is setting the pace in energy density, power density and efficiency. Here, the British Formula 1 experts were able to draw on their extensive experience with KERS hybrid concepts.

"Mercedes-AMG impressively shows the potential of the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive with the new record on the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Mercedes-AMG is the first vehicle manufacturer which makes it possible to circle the Nordschleife in under eight minutes with an electrically-powered series production vehicle. This record run is another proof for our constant innovative vigour," according to Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Photos courtesy of Daimler AG

The car's agile response to movements of the accelerator pedal and the linear power output are a source of pure delight: unlike with a combustion engine, the build-up of torque is instantaneous with electric motors – maximum torque is effectively available from standstill.

The spontaneous torque build-up and immense power delivery without any interruption in traction on the one hand are combined with completely vibration-free motor running characteristics on the other.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive circled the Nürburgring Nordschleife ("north loop") in a record time of 7:56.234 minutes. Therefore, the electric AMG super sports car is at the same time the first electrically-powered series production vehicle, which masters the legendary race track in under eight minutes. The record time of the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive was notarially certified. Two weeks after the first overall win for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 in the 24 Hours Nürburgring, a further member of the SLS AMG family impressively demonstrates its potential on the most difficult race track worldwide.

The front apron has not only been brought further forward, but also helps optimize airflow to the underbody. This improves wind resistance while reducing down force. An extendable front splitter enhances this effect: in parallel with the automatic rear spoiler, it extends downwards by three inches at speeds above 75 mph and helps to further accelerate the air which travels beneath the car. When it reaches the area of the rear axle, the air enters the rear diffuser which, due to the lack of an exhaust system, features a steeper angle, thus increasing down force at the rear axle and in turn further enhancing the aerodynamic balance. The vehicle's AMG 10-spoke light-alloy wheels feature a new, smooth-surfaced design and are fitted with 265/35 R 19 (front) and 295/30 R 20 (rear) tires All of this power comes at a price; the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive is heavy, top speed of 155 mph and range is limited to 155 miles, but only takes 3 hours to charge (fast charge).

A small price to pay for such a vehicle. Mercedes-AMG has shown us what is possible for the future of automotive technology.

"For the first time, an electrically-powered series production vehicle circles the Nürburgring Nordscheife in under eight minutes. The record for the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive in 7:56.234 minutes on the Nordschleife shows the special position of our innovative and unique drive solution. With the extremely efficient battery technology deriving from Formula 1, four electric motors positioned close to the wheels, the individual wheel torques "AMG Torque Dynamics," the SLS eSound and our ambitious "AMG Lightweight Performance" design strategy, the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive generates a breathtaking sensation unlike any other model out on the road," according to Tobias Moers, Head of Overall Vehicle Development and member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive is currently not available for sale in the United States.

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Photos courtesy of Getty Images

Keep Your Car Running Longer Family Features

Getting you to and from work every day and transporting your family to after-school activities and far-off destinations are just a few of the things we rely on our automobiles to do for us.

To prolong the life of your vehicle, it is important to provide the basic routine care it requires. Though automobiles are a complex system of interconnected parts, basic car maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated.

Here are some simple tips to keep your car running longer and more efficiently: Be Mindful of Brakes – Allowing you the very important ability to stop your vehicle, the maintenance of brakes is vital. Have them checked annually by a professional and be aware of the signs of wear including delayed response when pushing on your brake pedal, the brake light appearing on your dashboard or any highpitched squeal or harsh grinding sounds.

Change Oil Often – Oil is the lifeblood that keeps key engine components in good working condition by reducing friction and wear. Change your oil about every three months, or check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals. This will ensure you are doing your part to maintain the frequency of oil changes your car needs. Always be sure to check for proper oil levels when preparing for any long trip you may be planning.

Use Engine Treatment – To reduce wear and extend engine life, use an engine treatment, such as Synergyn XtrA MPG anti-friction formula. This added lubrication can keep your engine running smoother, providing greater wear protection than oil alone and extends the life of your car’s engine.

Change Power Steering Fluid – This part of your vehicle helps you to steer with minimal effort. Be sure to have the power steering fluid changed every 50,000 miles or three years. If your fluid level is low, you may have a leak which will need to be reviewed by a mechanic.

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Replace Engine Coolant – In order to keep your engine running efficiently, engine coolant removes excess heat. Depending on the type you purchase, most antifreeze or engine coolants can last from 30,000 - 50,000 miles, or about three years. You can check your engine’s level by locating the plastic coolant reservoir under your hood.

Replace Air Filter – The air filter prevents airborne contaminants from being pulled into your car’s engine. Because wear is dependent on amount of driving, regular highway drivers should have their air filters replaced about every 15,000 miles to improve fuel economy, emissions and performance. Another way to improve fuel economy is by using an engine treatment product, such as Synergyn XTrA MPG Engine Treatment.

Maintain Tire Pressure – Having the right amount of pressure in your tires can prevent poor mileage, tire blowouts or uneven wear. Because a change in temperature can dramatically impact tire pressure, it is important to check tire pressure with extreme weather changes, or to be on the safe side, every couple months.

Rotate Your Tires – To keep the amount of wear on tread even, minimize vibration of wheels and prolong the performance of your tires, get your tires rotated regularly. Most professionals recommend a rotation around every 4,000 miles or when you go in for oil changes.

For more information on improving fuel economy, reducing wear and extending the life of your car’s engine, visit: www.synergynusa.com.

Lorena Placencia

Photography - Indi Franco

Miss Carnaval Miami

2013

The city of Miami elected its newest Miss Carnaval Miami 2013, Lorena Placencia, on February 2, during the annual pageant held at the Manuel Artime Theater. As the winning titleholder, Lorena will represent the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana during Carnaval Miami season as well as in all of their philanthropic activities.

She will also represent and be the spokesperson for Diet Coke's National Campaign named The Heart Truth.

Lorena's modeling has been featured in publications such as Gente de Miami Magazine, D'Latinos Magazine, Pulse Magazine, New Herald, Hola Magazine, Focus Magazine, News-press, Somos Magazine, Nuevos Ecos Newspaper, Expression Latina Newspaper.

Expanding from modeling, Lorena has also been featured in numerous music videos including Ma Cherie by the talented singer Terio Mastrapa and Dejame Entrar by the Venezuelan singer Ricardo Malfati.

Photography - Indi Franco

Lorena was the leading actress for the movie called Sin Social with Telemundo directed by Carlos Salamanca and winner of the Reel Platinum Award in the Nevada Film Festival Las Vegas. One of her goals is to continue pursuing acting and modeling with recognized modeling agencies in Miami , California and New York.

Lorena was born in Quito, Ecuador, where she started her formal education in dramatic arts and entertainment at the age of 8, when she joined a local drama school, in addition to her elementary school. She remembers even earlier times in her childhood, when she and her cousin Daniela used to write and perform in plays for family gatherings. Then, at the age of 13, Lorena came with her parents to Miami, which she considers her second home.

She attended John Casablanca Modeling school, and graduated at the age of 15. Since then, and with close parental supervision, she was encouraged to participate in multiple modeling and other events. Today she brings to the stage a rich professional modeling experience combined with intellectual interests as well as the highest human values that have led her to participate in community service opportunities.

F

rom modeling to acting and TV hosting . Lorena has participated in numerous TV commercials such as Hair Bay Carlos, Sashy Hair Salon, Miss Universe 2010Telemundo. Her talent and beauty are reflected in past and most recent commercials which include Fort Myers Toyota, Memorial Gardens - Telemundo 43 , Fort Myers Film Festival 2013, and she is the face for Coastal Scents Make-up.

Lorena has been invited to co-host in different TV Shows such as En Casa con Martin Ycaza aired on Telemundo and D'Latinos TV aired on Azteca America.

Always runway ready, Lorena has modeled in various Fashion Shows in Miami Florida for internationally recognized fashion designers such as Rosita Hurtado, Lourdes Atencio, MarĂ­a Lepe, Eduardo de las Casas, Benilda Nya and Francisco Azucar.

Giving back to the community. Lorena has a drive to constantly help the community and she gives credit to her 3 years experience working for a non-profit organization called Catholic Charities, which she admits it made a difference in her life. She managed to balance her beauty queen responsibilities with work and school while finishing her Bachelor's Degree in Management and Marketing from Florida Gulf Coast University.

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Inner beauty and outside beauty combined. In the year 2011, this determined Latina was crowned as the new “ Miss Florida US International 2011� at the Pageant held in the beautiful Newport Beachside Hotel in Sunny Isles Florida. Breaking the record in the history of this pageant, Lorena won five awards which included 2011 Best Swimsuit , 2011 Best Evening Gown, 2011 Positive Award, 2011 Miss Photogenic, and 2011 Miss Florida US International. Lorena was the ambassador of Florida and she not only proudly represented the sunny state of Florida at a national level competing for Miss US International, but she worked with different organizations such as American Cancer Society raising awareness against Breast Cancer, Dawn Center raising awareness against Domestic Violence, Guest Speaker at Oaks Elementary Graduation Ceremony, FGCU "Go Green" raising awareness of the importance of Sustainability, Education Gala and Back to School Backpack Event", in Southwest Florida, promoting the importance of Education.

Miss Carnaval Miami 2013. A classic beauty, whose features bring to mind Boticelli's "Birth of Venus", Lorena Placencia intends to represent the best of her sponsoring organizations, such as the visionary projects of the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana by helping children, the elderly, and the less fortunate people to improve their lives and face their challenges successfully. Likewise, she is now the ambassador and spoke person of the national campaign named "The Heart Truth"by Diet Coke which creates awareness of heart disease prevention and control specially among women between ages 40-60.

Her favorite quotes include "The world is in your hands", "You are your only competition", "Everything happens for a reason", "Believe in Yourself and never give up", "Follow your Dreams".

Model - Lorena Placencia Make up -Geancarla Sprella Asmad Hair - Chasenka Fashion Designer-Mariapia Malerba Location Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center Photography - Indi Franco

www.maria-pia-art.com 72 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

A busy year and schedule awaits for her: "I feel honored and blessed to be able to represent the Kiwanis Club, Coca Cola, and all the Hispanic women in this new and wonderful journey!", says Lorena. "I will put my heart and soul in everything I will do as your new queen", added the newly crowned Miss Carnaval Miami 2013.

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week SWIM 2014

Designers

AGUA BENDITA POKO PANO DOLORES CORTÉS SUBOO BEACH BUNNY NICOLITA AQUA DI LARA MARA HOFFMAN SWIM VIX PAULA HERMANNY CM CIA.MARĺTIMA NANETTE LEPORE OAKLEY BCBGENERATION GOTTEX L*SPACE BY MONICA WISE A.Z ARAUJO ROXY LULI FAMA CAFFÉ SWIMWEAR MAAJI SWIMWEAR SAUVAGE ZINGARA SWIMWEAR NAÏLA 6 SHORE ROAD A.CHÉ SWIM AGUACLARA AQUARELLA SWIMWEAR CAITLIN KELLY SWIMWEAR MINIMALE ANIMALE...

For the ninth year, South Beach comes alive, as the swimwear industry’s most highly anticipated event returns. From what's new to what's chic, the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim heated up the sands of The Raleigh Hotel with five days of designer runway shows, presentations and parties. The fashion industry's finest designers showcasing the glamour and beauty of their latest swimwear during this once a year event. Designers, stylists and models alike have focused on radiating attitude, color and flair from head to toe. From the perfect hairstyle, accessories and footwear are essential to complete a look and no one knows better than the top models and stylists of Fashion Week.

This season’s diverse lineup of designers is a testament to Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim and the Raleigh Hotel’s ability to transform and create a world stage for the fashion industry to showcase and entertain everyone from the well established brands to the future stars.

“Over the last 9 years, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim has attracted thousands of designers, media, buyers and swimwear lovers. The Raleigh truly becomes the center of action for the week with guests converging to see the hottest trends. This season we expect an even larger turn out with the impressive group of designers on the schedule, a Kick-Off party hosted by Roxy and a few other surprise additions that will be announced very soon,” says Christina Neault, Executive Producer, IMG Fashion Events and Properties.

“Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim has a longstanding reputation as one of the summer’s can’t-miss events. Miami is the only city in the world where the sexiness of the Collections on the runway is paralleled by what you see on the streets and around town,” says Stephanie Zimmer, Manager of Brand Experience Marketing for Mercedes-Benz USA. “The beach goers, the convertibles on the highway, the nightlife and ocean breeze are set to once again welcome our international guests.”

Mara Hoffman, the designer known for her originality of designs and fearless approach to print and color, receives the distinguished title of "Mercedes-Benz Presents" designer this season. Hoffman will showcase her collection alongside over thirty of the industry's most influential swimwear designers during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim at The Raleigh Hotel in Miami Beach.

The "Mercedes-Benz Presents" program recognizes one designer each season showing at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim that demonstrates dedication to the use of quality materials, unique style and innovative design. Mara Hoffman joins a prestigious list of past "Mercedes-Benz Presents" designers including: Vitamin A, Red Carter, Trina Turk, and LUXE by Lisa Vogel.

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By Samantha Ramos Photography by Mike Coppola Frazer Harrison

"Mara Hoffman is one of the most prestigious swimwear designers in the industry and we are honored to welcome her into the 'Mercedes-Benz Presents' program, which continues to support the swimwear industry globally," said Stephanie Zimmer, manager of brand experience marketing for Mercedes-Benz USA. "Mara's unique prints are unmistakable and evoke a very spirited, playful attitude much like our 2014 E-Class Cabriolet debuting this season."

Mara Hoffman Swim 2014

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

Designer Mara Hoffman

"It was a dream come true to see one of my designed prints as the paint finish on a Mercedes-Benz convertible," said Mara Hoffman. "I am sincerely honored to have been selected as the 'Mercedes-Benz Presents' designer and I cannot wait to kick off all of the festivities this season has in store."

The event brought together a diverse mix of outstanding talent, creativity and individualism.

BCBGeneration

For the first time, Mara Hoffman will debut a print design from her runway collection as the paint finish on the 2014 E-Class Cabriolet during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim. The wrapped E-Class Cabriolet will be stopping by South Beach hot spots to give out invitations to runway shows at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim. The oneof-a-kind print will also debut on a unique fashion item designed exclusively by Hoffman and will be on sale at Alchemist fashion boutique in Miami.

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Beach Bunny

Sauvage

Anna Kosturova

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week SWIM 2014 Nicolita

Beach Riot

CM Cia.Maritima

A.Che

Poko Pano

Indah

Aguaclara

Agua Bendita

Suboo

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week SWIM 2014

FOCUS of SWFL 2013 77

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6 Shore Road

Dolores Cortes

Gottex

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week SWIM 2014

ViX Paula Hermanny

Aqua Di Lara

Oakley

Nanette Lepore Roxy

The Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce Visitor Information Center

“

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!

”

...to live, work and play in Greater Naples

900 Fifth Avenue South, Suite 102 Open Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Stop in to see us and sign our Guest Book too!

239.262.6141 www.napleschamber.org

FOCUS of SWFL 2013 79

Lightweight

By Anna Filipiak

Sunreef Yachts continues moving forward in the field of large yacht design and introduces first unit of Sunreef 80 Carbon Line, sailing catamaran concept based on light displacement, performance and speed.

Commissioned by European owner, the Sunreef 80 LEVANTE is made of an advanced composite sandwich combining vinylester, PVC foam and carbon/glass fiber, with a carbon mast and boom in-house made, standing rigging with Kevlar and total sail area of 340 m2, weighing just 45T lightship. The sleek and sporty exterior line was designed carefully to reduce windage and water resistance.

The yacht is meant for fast sailing and can easily reach 15 knots with maximum speeds on sails set for 20+ knots. The Main sail and Genoa are made of Vectran while the Gennaker is made of Cubin Fiber, the best materials available on the market for performance-oriented cruising yachts. Sunreef 80 LEVANTE keeps her balance no matter the wind conditions. She is very easy to maneuver and the steering is very comfortable. Moreover, this yacht is equipped with a system which enables testing the load on the rig when under sail. 12 load pins have been installed on the mast and rigging, so that the skipper is able to check the load and adjust sails accordingly pushing the boat to the safe maximum at all times. Additionally, the black box which registers this data and allows Sunreef Yachts to have access to it is installed on the catamaran. These solutions will allow the shipyard to monitor the speed of the boat at all times and progress with research on powerful rigs for its future yachts.

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The yacht is designed to comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests and 4 crew. The portside hull comprises one guest cabin with a bathroom, a fully equipped galley and crew cabins. The starboard hull features one guest and one children’s cabin, both with private en-suite bathrooms, and the owner’s dressing room and bathroom directly accessible from the master suite on the main deck. For the very first time on a Sunreef single deck catamaran, the owner suite is located on the main deck.

This means that the internal cockpit comprises the navigation station, dining area, lounge zone and the owner suite on the front right. As is the case for all Sunreef catamarans, the cockpit and flybridge features dining areas, sunbathing pads and extended storage.

The interior design represents a modern and minimalist style based on white and grey colors with touches of a fresh blend of strong, modern colors.

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Space to well-being

by Giovanni Bogetto

It interprets contemporary lifestyle by offering exceptional comfort: four cabins, five bathrooms and a 42-square-metre flybridge. The innovative solutions introduced for the furnishings and the precise lighting design do the rest.

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The new Azimut 80 is the first yacht measuring more than 72 feet designed entirely at Azimut s headquarters at Avigliana, Italy. It builds on the experience of recent, larger vessels developed in the exterior design by Stefano Righini while the design of interiors was handled by Achille Salvagni Architetti.

The Azimut 80 is a leisure craft built in CE class: A, and is thus able to tackle any weather conditions. The layout comprises 4 cabins, all with bathroom, including the owner s cabin extending over the full beam. The yacht can accommodate 8 guests and includes an enormous flybridge, designed for maximum versatility of use.

Panoramic windows and maximum convenience for the guests cabins revolutionize the way of cruising. The sense of space in the owner s cabin and in the splendid bathroom are certainly among the strong points of the yacht, together with the innovative windows offering extraordinary luminosity and an unmatched panoramic view. The five vertical windows effectively transform the bulkheads into a single window for a dive into the ocean effect. The owner s bathroom, covering the entire beam of the yacht and with a double entrance located aft of the cabin, is almost a spa, with a central crystal shower box offering maximum visibility on either side of the bathroom. The opening portholes present in all the cabins offer a high level of natural ventilation.

Photos courtesy of Azimut Yachts

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In the first model available, dove-colored leather panels with a barely hinted padded decoration that becomes lighter and lighter in the various cabins, adorn the bed heads of each cabin. The interior decoration of the new Azimut 80 is extremely refined and at the same contemporary, thanks to the combination of fine materials and modern touches: marble for the bathrooms, grey bleached oak alternating with dark wood and painted detailing in the skylights and windows all define a sober, sophisticated atmosphere. Other stylistic combinations are already in the pipeline.

The starboard cabin has two single beds and the possibility of a third fold-down bed, plenty of stowage and a bathroom with separate shower, while the guest’s cabin on the port side has a double bed. There is no lack of large windows and opening portholes. In the VIP cabin located further forward, there is one panoramic window on either side; the bed is set centrally with the head towards the bow.

A carefully planned lighting design based on LED technology makes possible a sophisticated modulation of the light in each interior space.

Moreover, the play of mirrors and the height of the interiors well over two meters high ensure a truly exceptional sense of space.

The crew s cabins are located aft, with direct access from the deck; at the moment, two beds are planned, but the possibility of adding a third is currently being studied.

Light and comfort are the key concepts underlying the design of the main deck. The cockpit with teak flooring is extremely spacious and dedicated to socializing, with a large sofa aft and dining table seating eight. The design of two sky-ground windows (1.6 m by 2 m of glass) located in the dining area is very impressive, as it offers a fantastic natural light and breathtaking view. The galley, fitted with Miele appliances, is available in two versions: enclosed or open-space. In both cases, there is a double access, towards the interior and towards the exterior, to assure maximum independence between guests and crew.

The main deck is also equipped with a function day toilet.

The swimming platform measuring almost 9 square meters and the large fly are the pride and joy of the new Azimut 80. The swimming platform is incredibly large almost 9 square meters and provides plenty of room for the launch and retrieval of tenders exceeding 4 meters in length or of jet skis. Further forward, the space is divided into a large sun deck that can comfortably accommodate four people, and an area with a C shaped sofa just aft of the windscreen, with further storage.

With 42 square meters of versatile space lending itself to a variety of uses. The seating is a combination of L shaped sofas that can be configured as desired. Alongside the helm, there are two sofas positioned in a C facing the large table seating eight. The fly is an ideal place from morning to evening; a convenient and well-equipped bar unit has a barbecue, refrigerator and sink, but also houses a retractable 42-inch TV and constitutes the base for an elegant Plexiglas bar counter. Further aft, the second area offers maximum flexibility in terms of fittings: it can be left unencumbered, furnished with sofas, set aside for the tender or as a sun deck, or fitted with a hydro massage. The Azimut 80 can also be constructed with an opening hard top and rolling awning towards the stern.

In the engine room, the two 1550 hp MAN engines provide a top speed of 30 knots. The fuel tank has a capacity of 6,000 liters, while the water tank can contain 1,200 liters. As an option, the yacht can be fitted with electric CMC Marine stabilizing fins or gyroscopic Seakeeper stabilizers.

Spacious and sophisticated style is assured aboard Azimut's new 80.

Offering technological advancements in cruising and furnishings lined with soft luxurious materials for your indoor and outdoor pleasure.

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Real estate...

A Perspective On Value

By Chip Krespach

The real estate market in southwest Florida continues to strengthen and the popularity of the warm sub tropic climate remains high. It’s not a mystery as the area offers modest condos from under $200,000 to estate sized single family homes and luxury high rise condos at over $10,000,000.

Market activity has been described as a “torrid sales pace” with total YTD 2013 home sales in Naples, Bonita Springs and Estero at 8,481 compared to total 2012 home sales of 11,930. Prices are stabilizing and beginning to rebound.

With so many different home and community lifestyle options available, let’s take a look at some recent sales in the area to help you get calibrated to local home values.

Southwest Florida has been a destination for many years and the real estate choices are vast. As at this writing there are over 4,000 single family properties offered at prices from $200,000 and higher in Naples and neighboring Bonita Springs and Estero. For those considering selling their Florida home, now is the time as prospective buyers are on the hunt for good values.

Don’t know where to begin? As I always advise, selecting a home seems to come down to two main questions, the answers to which form the basis for a good decision.

1.What type of community and amenities do I want?

2.What type of home and features do I want?

The answer to these two questions will help you narrow your search to a manageable list so you can enjoy the process.

You can realize your dream too. When was the last time you took a look at a new home?

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This gorgeous estate home is located in the unparalleled Isle Royale at Grey Oaks. With 6+ bedrooms and 8 full baths and 2 half baths, this spectacular custom built 18 room residence provides French country style living in Naples.

Numerous interior and exterior features including Ludowici Clay tile roofing, Turkish limestone tile floors, authentic 100 year old barn board timbers, hand distressed walnut plank floors, custom made carved and distressed Alderwood cabinetry and imported French antique light fixtures, join together to create a charming old world country estate family home.

Listed by Jack Walsh of Downing-Frye Realty, Inc. MLS# 213000572 Sold for $6,700,000

Traveling a short distance to the west we find the newly constructed Bermuda Style home located in the distinct Moorings area. With 5 bedrooms and 5 ½ baths you’ll pass through an oversized mahogany front door leadinto into a grand entry which sets the sophisticated tone with soaring 16ft. tongue and groove ceilings, wide open layout and spectacular views of the resort style pool. Gorgeous wide plank French oak flooring throughout offsets the elegantly designed kitchen with double islands and custom cabinetry. As a single story design, the split bedroom floor plan features five en-suite bedrooms assuring comfort and privacy for family and guests.

Listed by Christine Denault of John R. Wood, Inc. MLS# 213001454 Sold for $2,450,000

This stunning estate home located in the natural surroundings of Audubon Country Club. Featuring 4 bedrooms plus den and 6 ½ baths the home includes 6,443sq. ft. under air and a 4 car garage. The expansive lanai accommodates multiple relaxing seating areas, pool and spa and an outdoor kitchen. Features include custom built-in cabinetry thru-out, Gourmet Kitchen w/gas & Butler's Pantry, gas fireplace, elevator, separate his & hers master baths/closets, and a very large 2nd floor screened deck to relax and enjoy the sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.

Listed by Sharon Saunders of Downing-Frye Realty, Inc. MLS# 212010796 Sold for $2,000,000 FOCUS of SWFL 2013 87

Walk to the beach from this spacious condominium coach home located in Sea Grove at The Dunes. This Great Room plan features 3 bedrooms and 3 baths and a 2 car garage! 10 foot ceilings, private elevator, built-in grill on lanai & hurricane shutters provide carefree living! The gourmet kitchen includes Plantation Shutters, 8' solid core doors, crown molding and granite countertops. Located on a picturesque lake the home boasts a bright SW exposure!

Listed by Yvonne Morehouse of Downing-Frye Realty, Inc. MLS# 212018672 Sold for $825,000

Returning once again to Audubon Country Club to the enclave of Devon Green, this home has been completely renovated with the best in quality appointments and offers a beautiful panoramic lake view. With 2 bedrooms plus den and 2 ½ baths, this stunning renovation includes extensive crown moldings, granite, high-end cabinetry and appliances, glass tile backsplash in kitchen/bar, new porcelain flooring in main rooms, updated lighting and all new bathrooms & wet bar.

Listed by Sharon Saunders of Downing-Frye Realty, Inc. MLS# 213001082 Sold for $550,000

With the rebound in home sales in SWFL, one finds a number of NEW construction communities throughout the area offering excellent values.

Located in The Preserve at Corkscrew, at over 1,900sq ft. this home includes 3 bedrooms plus den, 2 bathrooms, hurricane impact glass, oversize garage, upgraded kitchen cabinets and more. Combined with a luxurious community center with resort style pool, huge fitness center, tennis courts and more, it will be a great place to relax and enjoy SWFL. New Construction by Pulte Homes and sold by Chip Krespach, Downing-Frye Realty, Inc. Sold for $282,000

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www.LuxuryHomesSWFL.com

Providing "Full Time" Award Winning Real Estate Service to discerning sellers and buyers.

Chip Krespach, Realtor速

Let me show you the difference.

Call for a confidential, no obligation consultation today. www.LuxuryHomesSWFL.com Chip@LuxuryHomesSWFL.com Direct (239) 823-6768

Small

Changes With

Big Impact

Photo Caption: American Olean’s Garden Oasis tile collection featuring OceansideGlass Tile brings color, texture and dimension to a room.

Ever envy those beautiful homes that seem to get redecorated with every new season? The latest and greatest looks are easy to incorporate if you keep your furnishings neutral and the décor uncluttered. From there, it’s just a matter of bringing in a few simple touches that create a big impact.

Start with one or two easy projects and you will quickly transform your house into a place you’re proud to call home.

1. Transform With Paint – Every interior designer will tell you the quickest way to transform a home is with a fresh coat of paint. Greet guests with a beautiful new door color. It will give your entire home a facelift with very little time and effort.

2. Warm Things Up – The look of hardwood brings warmth to every room in the house. Even kitchen and bathroom spaces can benefit from the addition of wood-look tiles, such as Forest Park from Daltile, which are easy to clean, water resistant, and durable, but with the beauty and ambiance of traditional hardwood.

Throw rugs are a great way to accent a wood-look floor and are easy to swap out with the change of season or style.

3. Keep it Clean – Kitchens are prime gathering places and just keeping them clean and uncluttered will transform the look and feel of an entire house. Leave just one or two appliances on the countertops, add fresh flowers and hang a pair of colorful kitchen towels to brighten the space.

4. Make a Space Pop – Add a pop of color and texture with new tile, such as American Olean’s Garden Oasis featuring Oceanside Glass Tile. The tiles, which can be seen at www. americanolean.com, come in various shapes, sizes, colors and patterns, so you can easily show off your own creative style anywhere.

5. Throw on Some Pillows – Filling a room with furnishings in neutral shades is actually the simplest way to embrace new decorating trends. Give a monochromatic room an instant makeover with pillows, artwork and tchotchkes. It’s an inexpensive way to change things up whenever the mood strikes.

6. Be Neighborly – Even if you only have room for a small pot of flowers, make your front porch welcoming. If possible, set out some chairs for neighborly chats, place a small table between for refreshments and add plenty of cushions for comfort.

7. Let There Be Light – Instantly change the look and feel of a room just by changing the lighting. Simply change your bulbs to one offering more natural light or swap out the entire light fixture for instant beauty.

Whether you update one room or transform your entire house, these simple changes will turn your home into a sanctuary that truly reflects your own personal style.

www.daltile.com 90 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

Family Features

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

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With a $5 million dollar bond rating, a state-of-the-art showroom facility, and a long history of highly satisfied customers, you know you’re talking to a builder you can trust. Whether you’re looking for better health, more living space, a prettier backyard, or just a private place to relax, you can trust Fountain Pools to make your dreams come true.

Helpful Kitchen Tips Photos courtesy of Getty Images

Family Features

So much of life happens in the kitchen – from hurried morning breakfasts to after school snacks with the kids – it’s likely to be the most travelled room of the home.

Unfortunately, all this activity in one room can cause many messes and much required upkeep. By following a few simple steps, you can keep this important space tidy, clean and smelling great.

Here are some simple tips to keep your kitchen clean and inviting: Add Some Citrus.

Does your garbage disposal have an uninviting stench? Here’s one simple solution – use orange or lemon peels to freshen the drain or disposal. Simply run cool water from your faucet, turn on the disposal, throw in the peels and take in the fresh citrus scent. This is a perfect way to use old fruit that is no longer good enough to eat.

Make Dishes Sparkle.

Dirty plates, pots, pans, glasses and utensils pile up quickly in busy kitchens. Get dishes sparkling clean with a dish liquid that leaves your hands feeling touchably soft, such as Palmolive Soft Touch dish liquid. In a recent survey conducted by Kelton, 33 percent of those who wash dishes by hand said their skin is usually dry afterwards.

Keep Up With Countertops.

The kitchen countertop is the easiest place to collect a mess so it’s important to keep it tidy. Because so many countertops are made with fine woods, stones and other specialty materials, it is important to know what cleaning products you can use on them so they keep their beautiful appearance. In general, avoid abrasive cleaners and never use steel wool or other harsh brushes which can scratch the surface. Invest in protectors such as trivets for hot cookware, or trays for oil bottles and other cooking items that keep permanent residence on countertop space.

Love Your Oven.

Ovens are often the most neglected appliance in the kitchen.

Open them up to find baked-on spills, burnt-on food, as well as splatters covering the exterior. Be sure you’re giving your oven the maintenance it needs by cleaning it at least once each season. Whether you’re using a homemade cleaning concoction or a heavy-duty store-bought brand, it is important to scour every nook and cranny. Also, give attention to the range top and ensure all extra food debris has been removed and cleaned.

www.palmolive.com 92 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

Ant Prevention Of all the pests that can take up residence in your home this summer, ants are among the most common.

“Treat ants proactively, even if you only see one or two,” advises Jason Cameron, licensed contractor and host of DIY Network’s Desperate Landscapes. Jason’s long experience in home remodeling and carpentry makes him an expert on how to detect and discover entry points for potentially destructive ants to enter the home. “Taking preventative measures will help you protect both the inside and outside of your home from these pesky insects.”

Here are a few of Jason’s tips and tricks to help protect your home and outdoor spaces from ants: Treat Using a Systematic Approach Even if you only see a few, adopt a systematic approach to help treat the ants you see and even those you don’t. Start by treating the perimeter of your home using a product such as Raid Max Bug Barrier to defend against ants that want to enter your house. Next, use an instant-action product indoors to kill them on contact. Treat areas such as baseboards and entry points, as they are prime locations for ants to infiltrate homes. Finally, place baits in areas where you see individual ants or ones following a trail or path to protect against bigger problems in the future. Do not place ant baits in areas where sprays were used.

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Store Food Properly To help protect the inside of your home from ants, store food in sealed containers, use dried goods in a timely manner and sweep up crumbs immediately. Even a small crumb on the floor is a large meal for an ant colony. Also, be sure to clean up after your pets.

Many ant problems are the result of pet food bowls being left out with food remnants in them. Be sure to have an instant-action spray on hand, such as Raid Ant & Roach Killer, to kill bugs on contact. Be sure to read the label carefully when treating in and around food-prep areas.

Monitor Mounds Outdoor mounds are nests that are underground. They are a big cue for a colony of ants, so when you see them be sure to treat them right away with a pest control product.

Check Trees Carpenter ants are the largest of all ant species and usually get into homes from nearby trees. Inspect trees on your property for nests and treat as needed. Most carpenter ant nests are found in decaying wood in trees with holes or imperfections. In fact, carpenter ants can hollow out the wood throughout your home, causing problems that can be costly to repair.

Clear Damp Areas Ants love to build their colonies in moist areas, especially those in which organic mulch, leaves, weeds, branches and brush remnants collect. Places like where rain gutters overflow are perfect environments for ants so be sure to clean them out regularly. If you have an ant problem year after year, see if there is any wet debris up against your home and get rid of it. Use stone mulch and cut back weeds around the foundation.

www.RaidKillsBugs.com 94 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

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Transform Your Kids’ Rooms Photos courtesy of ©Disney

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It’s no surprise that kids want unique, colorful bedrooms that reflect their personalities and give them a space to call their own. Parents, though, may find that overwhelming and worry about having to sacrifice cleanliness and organization.

The ideas below will help you create fun, innovative rooms and make everyone in the family happy. Plus, they are easy to create.

GO TEAM! One of the most enduring bedroom themes for boys and girls revolves around sports. Whether your little athlete plays or just watches soccer, football or basketball, this is an easy look to achieve. Select two shades that match their favorite team’s colors. Paint the bottom half of each wall in the darkest color then coat the top half with the other. Create a polished look by dividing the two colors with a wide, horizontal strip of paint. Posters, pennants and memorabilia complete the look.

FIT FOR A PRINCE OR PRINCESS Give your little prince or princess a dreamy bedroom inspired by Disney’s most cherished icons. Select the perfect color from the new line of Disney Paint by the makers Glidden Paint ®. It comes in 112 exclusive colors designed to give kids inspiration at every stage – from infant to tween. Add matching bedding and other accessories to complete the look. For a truly show-stopping finish, put a splash of glitter on the walls. Disney Paint, “All That Glitters,” is a new clear topcoat that creates a shimmering glitter finish over any painted surface.

JUST BEACHY All it takes is the perfect color of blue paint to transform any bedroom into a tropical oasis. Carry the theme throughout the room with white curtains, bedding and furniture. Then trim the windows by draping lengths of grass skirting along the top and placing several clear jars of sea glass along one ledge. Prop a surfboard or two in the corner or hang them from the ceiling to complete the look.

SPACE OUT Glow-in-the-dark paint makes it easy to create an out-of-this-world bedroom. After all, every budding young scientist should have lots of encouragement to reach for the stars. Paint the walls a deep space blue. Then create celestial bodies around the room using planetary stencils that you can see even when the lights go out. Disney Paint has five new specialty finishes, including “Ready, Set, Glow!” This translucent, ready-to use yellow paint allows any surface to glow in the dark. Use it also to stencil stars on the ceiling, turn off the lights and let your child dream up a bright future.

Tips to Help Complete the Transformation • Use a room’s fifth wall – the ceiling – to help spice up a room • Stencil fun shapes, like tiaras, jewels, cars, boats, etc., to help complement your kids’ personalities • Add an extra punch to small spaces, like bathrooms or window seats, with a fun and dynamic finish • Jazz up one piece of furniture, like a nightstand, chest of drawers or wooden chair, to bring extra personality to a room Painting Supplies You’ll Need • Your paint, finishes and extra accessories – Disney Paint is only available at select Walmart stores nationwide • Painters tape at least 2” wide • Paint brushes for small or tight areas • Drop cloths • Paint trays • Rollers and roller covers To get more inspiration and helpful tips, visit www.DisneyPaint.com. You can also experiment with the virtual “Room Painter” tool or browse the gallery.

FOCUS of SWFL 2013 97

Green Dream

Kitchen

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Today’s newly remodeled kitchens boast more than just rich hues and shiny appliances – they have an eco-conscious ambiance that marries great style with respect for the environment.

Dreaming of a fresh, modern kitchen that is also eco-friendly and strikingly beautiful? Achieving this transformation is more attainable than you may think. Environmental lifestyle expert, Danny Seo, provides these helpful tips on how to add earth-friendly updates to your kitchen: Refrigerator When searching for a new refrigerator, be sure to look for more than just the Energy Star label to ensure maximum energy efficiency. It is also important the new appliance fits your needs and the size of your kitchen. A larger refrigerator uses more energy. If the one you select is too big for your needs, you will be wasting energy and money.

windows make up the materials in glass tile; old plates and clay vases are recycled to become ceramic tile; and those old soda cans become aluminum metal tile. All of these materials come in a variety of shades and styles to fit the look of your dream kitchen.

Adding in a new laminate countertop, such as those made by Wilsonart, will complete the look when combined with a beautiful new backsplash. Wilsonart Decorative Metals are a great option.

Dishwasher According to the Environmental Protection Agency, using an Energy Star labeled dishwasher is the most efficient use of energy and water, even more so than hand washing. When looking to update your dishwasher, pay close attention to the Energy Guide labels, which include the annual estimated costs to run them. This valuable information can help you compare models to find the best fit for your family’s needs.

Blocked wood countertops With their rugged durability and timeless style, butcher block countertops are making a huge comeback. Though typically made from cherry, walnut and oak, greener options, such as high pressure laminate designs made by Wilsonart, can contribute to US Green Building Council LEED accreditation as an eco-friendly material to use in your home.

Flooring For a more sustainable approach to kitchen flooring, there are several options available. If you love the hard, classic appeal of wood, look for reclaimed, recycled or sustainably sourced materials. Bamboo is also a beloved choice among ecoconscious remodelers for its biodegradable nature and high renewability.

“Going green at home can be overwhelming, so I always advise people to not sweat the small stuff and focus on the one room of the house where it matters the most: the kitchen,” says Seo. “Being kind to the planet in the kitchen can also be kind on your wallet over time, so it's worth it to invest in sustainable upgrades.”

A dream kitchen that is both eco-friendly and chic is easier to attain than you think. With a few changes not only will you be smiling, but so too will Mother Earth.

Backsplash Recycled materials are the star of the show when looking to add green touches to your backsplash. There are three main types of recycled materials: ceramic, metal and glass. Old bottles and 98 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

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FIVE RARE CONCERT PERFORMANCES

World-renowned artists from throughout Europe, Israel, and the United Kingdom will travel to Fort Myers this winter to perform for the Fort Myers Community Concert Association in its 65th annual concert series.

Tickets are going fast for the five performances, which organizers say are among the best ever offered by the Fort Myers Community Concert Association. All performances will be at the Barbara B. Mann Hall on the Edison State College campus in Fort Myers.

“We anticipate that we’ll be sold out by the time the series begins in January,” said Community Concert Association President Mary Lee Mann. “Where else can you see not one, but five performances for what you would expect to pay for just one?”

All five concerts are included in one ticket price, which ranges from $165 for prime orchestra and mezzanine seats to $155 for other orchestra and mezzanine seats, $85 for lower balcony seating and just $65 for upper balcony.

Most mezzanine seating already sold out, Mann said.

“We have been fortunate this year to attract some of the most outstanding artists in the world today, thanks to the generosity of our major underwriters and supporters,” Mann said.

● Haifa Symphony Orchestra of Israel –January 27, 2014. The Orchestra, founded in 1950, is the most significant musical institute in northern Israel. More than 5,000 people per year attend their programs. The Orchestra currently is touring North America under the direction of world-acclaimed Maestro Noam Sheriff, who is one of Israel’s most versatile musicians. ● Pianist Teresa Walters – February 6, 2014. Known worldwide as “The International First Lady of Piano,” Walters is a familiar face on the world’s greatest concert stages including New York’s Carnegie Hall, London’s Wigmore Hall, the Salle Cortet in Paris, and the Great Hall of Moscow. Now living in New York City, Walters earned her doctorate from the Peabody Conservatory. ● Krasnoyarsk National Dance Company of Siberia – February 11, 2014. This dance troupe has appeared in more than 60 countries, performing Siberian dances that captivate audiences with their vivid character portrayals, the musical movements and the fanciful patterns of the choreographic design. ● Teatro Lirico D’Europa performing L’Elisir D’Amore – March 6, 2014. Donizetti’s L’Elixir D’Amore (The Elixir of Love) is a light-hearted comic opera that tells the story of a young, poor man who tries to win the heart of a beautiful woman. ● The Academy of St. Martin in the Fields with Joshua Bell, Music Director and Violin – March 24, 2014. One of the world’s most celebrated chamber orchestras based in the United Kingdom, the academy became the first and only orchestra to be awarded the Queen’s Award of Export by Queen Elizabeth. The chamber orchestra is directed by Joshua Bell, who is often referred to as “poet of the violin” and one of the world’s most celebrated violinists.

The Fort Myers Community Concert Association is an all-volunteer not-forprofit organization founded by the legendary Barbara B. Mann in 1949 to bring world-class entertainment to Southwest Florida at affordable prices.

The association consists of more than 1,700 members, underwriters and sponsors. Performers brought to Fort Myers in the past by the association include the Russian National Ballet, the Boston Pops with Arthur Fiedler, the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the Vienna Boys Choir, The Canadian Brass, Violist Itzhak Perlman, Metropolitan Opera Star Eileen Farrell, Violinist Isaac Stern, the Joffrey II Dancers, Metropolitan Opera Star Robert Merrill and many others.

The five performances all begin at 7:30 p.m.:

For tickets and membership information, call 239-693-4849.

www.fortmyerscommunityconcerts.org FOCUS of SWFL 2013 101

Seeing Back-to-School Success

By Dr. Joseph Barr

Joseph Barr, O.D., M.S., serves as VP of Medical Affairs Pharmaceuticals & Vision Care at Bausch + Lomb

As students begin preparing for the upcoming school year, parents are sometimes quick to overlook a very important back-to-school checklist item: an eye examination.

Gone are the days where students passively listen to lectures and take notes. Today’s schools rely more and more on visual teaching methods, like using laptops and tablets. In fact, 80 percent of classroom learning is based on vision, according to the American Optometric Association.

To help ensure vision problems don’t interfere with your student’s performance, there are a few insights all parents should know to better serve their children’s vision needs.

Be on the lookout for silent symptoms Children often try to compensate for poor vision, so parents should be on the lookout for the following symptoms of vision problems: • Reading patterns, like frequently losing his or her place while reading, could indicate an astigmatism, a common vision problem that causes objects to appear distorted and blurry.

• Frequent headaches can be a result of the child attempting to compensate for blurry vision, which is often a sign of farsightedness.

• Head tilting can be a sign of an eye muscle imbalance or strabismus, a condition in which the eyes are not properly aligned with each other.

Provide your child with “Smart-Sight” If your child does have a vision impairment, contact lenses can be a good option for students. Over the past several years, the technology and comfort behind contact lenses has improved, along with their affordability. For instance, Bausch + Lomb’s SofLens daily disposables are designed to be worn for one day, and then thrown away. This means there is no need for nightly cleaning, no concerns about losing a lens and students can also keep a spare pair in their backpack, if needed.

With eyesight being such an important component of education, it’s important to monitor your child’s vision throughout the school year. If you believe your child may be experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s best to call your local eye care doctor to schedule a routine eye examination.

www.bausch.com 102 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

FOCUS of SWFL 2013 103

Mental Health Awareness Week DOTTIE PACHARIS TO HEADLINE SYMPOSIUM IN FORT MYERS

Mental health advocate and author Dottie Pacharis will be in Fort Myers Tuesday, Oct. 1, to discuss her family’s struggle to get help for her son and urge others to obtain treatment if they need it at the Third Annual Mental Health Symposium hosted by HOPE Clubhouse of Southwest Florida.

Pacharis, who is the author of “Mind On the Run,” will headline the symposium in observance of Mental Health Awareness Week October 7-13. The symposium, named “Mental Wellness: A Family Affair,” also will include a presentation on the genetics of mental illness by Fort Myers psychiatrist Dr. Steven Machlin.

A highlight of the symposium will be a panel discussion by Pacharis and three well-known local women, each of whom has been impacted by mental illness in her own family: ● Dawn-Marie Driscoll, an executive fellow at the Center for Business Ethics at Bentley University and a former corporate attorney, who has a 61-year-old sister diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, bipolar type; ● Sarah Owen, CEO of the Southwest Florida Community Foundation, who has a 23-year-old son living independently with mental illness; and ● Andrea Prather, co-owner of the Broadway Palm, who was diagnosed with depression and has managed her illness with appropriate medication.

The symposium will be at the Broadway Palm, 1380 Colonial Blvd., from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with registration at 10:30 a.m. The Broadway Palm, Florida Weekly and The News-Press Media Group are the major sponsors with support from FineMark National Bank, Gavin’s Ace Hardware, Gulf Coast Clinical Research Center, Northern Trust, Park Royal Hospital, Rehak & Branning Attorneys at Law, and Storm Force.

“We are very honored that Dottie Pacharis, Dr. Machlin and our three distinguished panelists have agreed to join us for our Third Annual Symposium on Mental Health,” said Symposium Chair Jeanne Sweeney of 104 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

the Above Board Chamber of Florida. “They have a wealth of knowledge about the mental health field that we can all learn and benefit from.”

Dr. Machlin is board-certified in Adult Psychiatry and has practiced in Fort Myers for 22 years. He is a graduate of the medical school at Washington University in St. Louis, Mo., and completed his internship and residency at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, Md., where is a part-time assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences. He has published research papers on neuroimaging and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and treats all psychiatric disorders in adults and geriatrics.

Tickets for “Mental Wellness: A Family Affair” cost $35 including lunch and $50 with 2.0 CEUs for mental health professionals. Tickets are available at HOPE Clubhouse at 239-267-1777 or may be purchased online at www.hopeclubhouse.org. Tables for eight may be purchased for $750 with corporate recognition.

HOPE Clubhouse of Southwest Florida is a model of rehabilitation for people living with severe mental illness such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and clinical depression. Hope Clubhouse opened its doors in March, 2010, and has 138 active members. HOPE Clubhouse, the only one of its kind in Southwest Florida, fills a significant gap in the mental health system by offering opportunities for meaningful work, education, friendships and access to housing in a supportive, caring and dignified community setting. HOPE Clubhouse received a three-year accreditation from the International Center for Clubhouse Development earlier this year.

HOPE Clubhouse is based on the principle that meaningful work is critical in bringing positive change to the lives of those living with mental illness.

Clubhouse staff help “members,” as they are called, to develop work skills to enable them to return to productive employment in the community.

www.hopeclubhouse.org

th 6 Annual Champagne Brunch & Fashion Show Baby Basics of Collier County will host its 6th annual Champagne Brunch & Fashion Show on Monday, November 11 at 9:30 a.m. at Dillard’s in Coastland Mall.

The annual Champagne Brunch & Fashion Show is hosted each year to raise funds for Baby Basics, a volunteer organization that provides free diapers and kindness to over 325 infants and toddlers from low-income, working families in Collier County and Bonita Springs.

Over 160 Baby Basics’ supporters attend this event each year and enjoy delicious food, local models, and a showing of fall’s latest fashions. Baby Basics participants and their parents will also be in attendance to speak about the program and how it has benefited their family. The annual Champagne Brunch & Fashion Show is sponsored by Dillard’s and BNY Mellon.

Tickets to the Champagne Brunch & Fashion Show are $75 per person, which will provide 10 weeks of diapers for one baby.

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, two-week 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.

For more information about Baby Basics’ annual Champagne Brunch & Fashion Show or to purchase a ticket, email BabyBasicsNDC@hotmail.com or please visit:

www.BabyBasicsCollier.org

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One of a kind handmade fashion Photography by Richard Evans

Writing!

Get it in

By Ginny Grimsley

“Age 85 is a bad time to go broke,” says expert retirement planner Jeff Gorton. Personal savings, various investments and, yes, Social Security may prove to be short of what you’d expected.

“Budgeting how you spend money before retirement can often be a misleading measurement of how you’ll actually spend it during retirement,” says Gorton, a veteran Certified Public Accountant and Certified Financial Planner™, and head of Gorton Financial Group.

“Spending 40 hours a week at work not only earns you a paycheck, it also keeps you from spending money on more vacations, matinee screenings at the movie theater, extra trips to the mall or shopping online. You need to be exceedingly realistic in your planning, and the five years before retirement are actually the most crucial in solidifying post-employment stability.”

To prevent a rude awakening during retirement, Gorton makes certain his clients start with a written income plan (WIP). He reviews the benefits and importance of this “living document”: • A comprehensive list of life expenses paints a clearer picture. For a 65-year-old married couple today, there is a 72 percent chance that at least one spouse will live to age 85; a 45 percent chance that one will live to age 90, and an 18 percent chance that one will reach age 95, according a recent study from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics. You may not think of listing things like pet care, yard maintenance, and regular visits to salons or spas. But if you enjoy those services now, you may want them during retirement, and you might find that you underestimated the real cost of maintaining your desired lifestyle. And, that’s not including gifts to children and grandchildren!

• The forecast of a two-legged stool. A WIP helps you appreciate the reliability of retirement income. What sources of income do you anticipate having? Traditionally, retirement funding has been viewed as a “three-legged stool,” implying a balance between Social Security, retirement plans and savings/investments. As the baby boom generation ages, Social Security benefits may decrease — and the age at which an individual can collect benefits may increase.

Changes in employment may affect retirement plans. As a result, the third leg of the stool, savings/investments, may become even more important.

• Who is authoring your WIP? As with all written documents, you must always consider the source. What you may not realize is that a financial planner is liable to have a stake in selling you a financial product. Just like a retailer may have an incentive to move certain brands of products, many planners are incentivized to have you invest in specific financial vehicles from major institutions. What plan works best for you? Seek advice from an expert who isn’t trying to sell you something, such as an independent firm.

“If you don’t have a written income plan, then you’re just hoping things will work out,” Gorton says.

Jeff Gorton is a Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Financial Planner™ specializing in individual tax and retirement planning. He is also an Investment Advisor Representative under Alphastar Capital Management, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor, and has a life and health insurance license. Gorton works with individuals and their families to create and protect their financial legacies.

He specializes in working with retirees in the areas of tax planning, benefits, retirement planning, estate planning and safe money techniques. He received his BBA in Accounting from the University of Oklahoma. Gorton previously worked for 10 years as the Chief Financial Officer for a large retail organization, overseeing their accounting, benefits and 401(k) retirement plans.

www.gortonfinancialgroup.com FOCUS of SWFL 2013 107

Family Features

T

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

he best time to make decisions regarding long-term care is well before it’s needed. An unexpected illness or injury may force you or a loved one into making hasty decisions.

Long-term care is a set of services and supports for people who are unable to perform Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). ADLs are self-care activities, such as getting in and out of bed, walking, bathing, dressing, eating, and bowel and bladder management. About 70 percent of people turning 65 can expect to need some kind of long-term care services as they age. Experts encourage everyone over age 50 to take the time, while you have it, to research options and make important choices. Long-term care planning means developing a personal strategy now for how things should be handled later when you or a loved one is in need of care. Important considerations include the following:

Staying In Charge An important part of long-term care planning is outlining how you would like things to be handled. Expressing preferences clearly about how any declines in ADLs should be handled, what financial resources are available, and who should provide needed care is a good way to retain control.

All adults over age 18 should execute legal documents that appoint one or more individuals to make health care and financial decisions for them in the event they become unable to make decisions for themselves. An attorney can also prepare an advance care directive, which is a set of written instructions detailing what medical care you want or do not want.

Housing Those who would prefer to stay at home for as long as possible should make a plan to do so, and consider making modifications as needed.

Typical modifications include adding wheelchair ramps, installing medical alert systems and adding handrails or safety grips. Ideally, your residence should maximize your ability to continue performing ADLs, and help you avoid a fall.

108 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

Family Care Unpaid family members are the most common source of long-term care help. But, they may not be able to provide all the care you need, or be there every hour of the day. If you intend to rely on family members for long-term care services be sure to involve them in your long-term care planning. Make sure they are willing and able to be caregivers for you.

Paid Care As part of your long-term care plan, look into caregiving services in your area, including in-home care providers and elder daycare centers. Find out about elder shuttles, meals on wheels and other low-cost services offered in your community. Several types of housing come with support services for people who cannot fully take care of themselves due to aging and/or disability.

Take the time to familiarize yourself with the different types of facilities available in your area. Visit www.longtermcare.gov to find out more information about each type of facility and costs associated with long-term care. Your local Area Agency on Aging office also offers a list of resources available to the elderly in your area.

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Plan Ahead for Your Online Hereafter Photography Chris Harvey

By Ginny Grimsley

Now, you really can live forever, but that’s not necessarily a good thing.

Many of your online accounts – from automatic bill payments to eBay – may remain active after you pass away, unless you take steps to ensure they don’t, says attorney Hillel Presser, author of “Financial Self-Defense (Revised Edition).

Automatic bill pay, for example, can theoretically keep tapping your bank account long after you’re gone or, at least, until your money is.

“It’s important to make sure your online bank and shopping accounts, even your social media, can be closed out, or that your loved ones are authorized to access them,” Presser says. “You may ask, ‘Why would I care if I’m gone?’ I can tell you from experience: because it can create real headaches, and more heartache, for your family.”

Bank and shopping accounts will be vulnerable to identity theft, which would affect your estate if someone opens credit cards in your name. You might have valuable intellectual property, like domain names. They may need access to your health records, particularly if you died under questionable circumstances, he says.

There’s the sentimental stuff – photos and emails -- that your family may want as a remembrance of you, and the libraries of music and ebooks, which may represent a considerable investment on your part.

“The problem is, even if you provide a family member with all of your accounts, log-ins and passwords, they may not be legally allowed to access them,” Presser says. “In many cases, they may be violating the accounts’ terms of service or violating federal privacy and computer fraud laws. Some states have laws governing online materials, but they’re different and which of your accounts are covered depends on where the provider is located.”

110 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

What can you do to ensure your family isn’t left with a virtual nightmare after your passing? Presser offers these tips: • Create a list of all of your accounts, including log-innames, passwords, and answers to any security questions. Obviously, your list will need to be securely stored. Since you’ll need to update it regularly as you add accounts or change passwords, it will be easiest if you keep the list on your computer in a password-protected folder. Some versions of Windows allow you to create protected folders, but you may need to get third-party software to do this, such as freeAxCrypt. Remember to create a backup of your list, whether it’s on a jump drive or printed out on paper. Store the backup in a secure place such as a safe deposit box. Do not put password information in your will, which is a public document.

• If you have a Google account, set up the new inactive account manager. In May 2013, Google became the first site to give users an option for choosing what becomes of their content if they should become debilitated or die. Under the profile button, click “Account,” scroll down to “Account Management,” and you’ll find instructions for “Control what happens to your account when you stop using Google.” You can select how long the account should be inactive before your plans are set into motion; choose to whom you want to offer content, such as YouTube videos, Gmail, Google+ posts, Blogger and Picasa web albums, or whether it should simply be deleted.

• Appoint a digital executor. Perhaps the simplest way to ensure your online life is taken care of is to appoint a digital executor – a tech-savvy person who will be willing and able to carry out your wishes. Authorize the person to access your inventory of log-in information and spell out what you want done with each account, whether it’s providing access to loved ones or business partners, or deleting it.

The digital world has grown and transformed so rapidly, the law hasn’t kept up, which makes managing your digital afterlife challenging, Presser says.

“Until there are more consistent laws and procedures governing this area, it’s best to plan ahead, leave clear instructions and be sure you have a list of accounts where your estate lawyer or a loved one can find it and access it,” he says. “It will make a world of difference to your survivors.”

www.assetprotectionattorneys.com

Everyone Needs an ‘Incapacity Plan’

By Ginny Grimsley

Dementia has become the No. 1 cause of disability globally, according to the World Health Organization.

Stroke, which can also profoundly impair judgment and decisionmaking, stands at No. 2.

“This year, 7.7 million new cases of dementia will be diagnosed, and 15 million people will suffer a stroke,” says CPA Jim Kohles, chairman of RINA accountancy corporation. “By the time dementia symptoms become apparent, their competence may already be affected. Strokes, as we know, can be tragically sudden.”

While many people carefully plan for retirement and what will become of their estate after death, too few provide for that middle ground – incapacity, adds attorney John Hartog of Hartog & Baer Trust and Estate Law. “We should plan for incapacity, and if it never comes into play that’s wonderful,” says wealth management advisor Haitham “Hutch” Ashoo, CEO of Pillar Wealth Management.

Incapacity planning ensures you’re able to speak for yourself in all decisions, from your medical care to financial affairs.

Here are three steps everyone should take, from the accounting, legal and financial perspectives.

• Get disability insurance. “The likelihood of something happening that affects your ability to work is high, so you really should carry disability insurance,” says accountant Jim Kohles.

How you pay for it can have different tax impacts. If you purchase it through your business, whether as owner or employee, you can take a tax deduction on the premiums. But that means any claims paid will be taxable. If you pay with post-tax dollars, any benefits are not taxable.

“The difference in saving taxes on $200 a month in premiums versus $5,000 a month in benefits is significant,” Kohles says.

Kohles also cautions that more new policies now are capped at 10 years of payments – not lifetime. So be sure you understand the terms.

• Have legal documents that clearly state your wishes. These include a durable power of attorney for financial affairs and an advanced health care directive for medical decisions, says attorney Hartog.

Name the people – the “agents” -- who will be responsible for implementing those decisions, and draw up a document that delineates their responsibilities and powers. Choose people in whom you have a great deal of faith and trust. “People need to remember they’re going to be vulnerable – you don’t want to pick someone if you have a quiver of doubt about them,” he says. One safeguard is to name an agent, and a second person to whom the agent must report. “Just the idea that you have to report keeps people honest,” Hartog says.

In some states, the government provides forms so people can prepare these documents themselves, although Hartog suggests at least consulting with an attorney.

• If you’re the “non-financial” spouse, become familiar with the financial plan. “Typically, one spouse is in charge of the finances, and the other takes a back seat, or even a no seat,” says wealth management advisor Ashoo. “The non-involved person needs to understand how the finances are arranged and planned, and he or she needs to be very comfortable with the family’s advisors.” This will prevent a nightmare during an already stressful time should the involved spouse suddenly become incapacitated.

Both spouses should attend meetings with the family’s advisors, even if one spouse doesn’t fully understand or isn’t interested in all the details. “If something happens, they will know who to call and what to do,” Ashoo says. “They’ll avoid a nightmare. That’s the peace of mind I want for my clients.”

All three experts stress the importance of having these provisions in place long before you think you’ll need them.

“Younger people have a higher chance of becoming disabled before they die, and they’re usually the people who haven’t planned for that at all,” says Kohles.

About John Hartog, Jim Kohles & Haitham “Hutch” Ashoo: John Hartog is a partner at Hartog & Baer Trust and Estate Law. He is a certified specialist in estate planning, trust and probate law, and taxation law. Jim Kohles is chairman of the board of RINA accountancy corporation. He is a certified public accountant specializing in business consulting, succession and retirement planning, and insurance.

Haitham “Hutch” Ashoo is the CEO of Pillar Wealth Management, LLC, specializing in client-centered wealth management. All three are based in Walnut Creek, Calif., and advise ultra affluent families.

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HAWAIIAN TROPIC New Face ®

The Brand Leaves Behind The Bikini Contest and Launched A Nationwide Search For A New Face To Represent the New Hawaiian Tropic Hawaiian Tropic® announced that they have retired their Miss Hawaiian Tropic Bikini Contests, and are launching an online search for the "New Face” of Hawaiian Tropic. The brand, which introduced new, premium formulas and updated packaging in recent years, has received over 3,000 applicants from their nationwide Facebook contest to become the brand’s new spokesperson. The woman who best embodies everything Hawaiian Tropic stands for - beauty, confidence, style, enjoying the sun and keeping skin healthy - will appear in Hawaiian Tropic advertising, receive an all-expense-paid tropical vacation and serve as an official brand spokesperson.

“The modern Hawaiian Tropic woman still loves to spend time in the sun, but also understands the importance of sun care in helping to keep her skin healthy,” said Danielle Duncan, Brand Manager of Hawaiian Tropic. “We’re looking for a new face of the brand who captures that sensibility, and shares the Hawaiian Tropic philosophy that broad-spectrum sun protection can be as luxurious and pampering as any other beauty product.”

This was no easy contest, having more than 3,000 candidates receiving votes and later coming down to the five top finalists.

Danielle Erb of Tampa Florida emerged as the winner, receiving over 6,000 votes on Facebook. She is 22 years old and was born and raised in the “Sunshine State”. Danielle is a recent graduate of James Madison University where she played D1 volleyball for four years. She’s looking forward to starting a marketing internship later this summer in Wisconsin, and is hoping to soak up as much beach time as possible.

Hawaiian Tropic has always been at the forefront of innovation, creating luxurious sun care that pampers and protects the skin has selected a woman that embodies that same mentally. If you know Danielle Erb, she empowers those same abilities and more.

www.hawaiiantropic.com

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Style What your

You SAY ABOUT

Red captures her essence. Throughout decades and diverse cultures, it has long been the ultimate expression of love, emotion and power. And now, her dream wardrobe has arrived in a spectrum of the hue’s most splendid shades, from bright to Bordeaux. The look is bold and authoritative, yet feminine, with an emphasis on high tech materials, luminous embellishments, fur details, shine and luxurious fabrications. Leather rules, done in sheath dresses, soft pants, minimalistic tops and pencil skirts, as well as revamped outerwear. Leather is also important in graphic clutch silhouettes to utility backpacks, while ruby stones with brass hardware can be found on the suede single sole bootie.

Urban Utility

For her, fashion marches to a military beat this fall. Think rescaled, recolored and DIY camouflage. The cargo jacket, vest and pants join the ranks in different styles, from tailored to oversized, along with retro bomber jackets and traditional pea coats. Equipment shirts resurface. Utilitarian chic is redefined, especially when the unexpected elements come into play. Work in surplus boots, backpacks and utility belts.

The Modernist

She believes in new minimalism, a return to innovation with high-tech materials. The palette consists of soft neutrals to bold brights, often combined for sophisticated effects. Track pants add a certain “sport allure” with reinvented sweatshirts. Her style is a reinterpretation of basic silhouettes, but with totally new volumes, color blocking and banding combinations. Suede and leather are no longer statement pieces but the foundation of a complete head-to-toe look.

The Artist

Her body is a canvas. The curator of her own inimitable style, she artfully fuses graphic, stylized and surrealist patterns as well as Asian influences, artistic collage, dark florals and unusual layering. This trend includes a palette of muted jewel tone sometimes in graduated color ways. Expect lots of shine in jacquard materials, lace as a key fabrication and new knits with textural effects, intarsias and mixed media. The Grandpa cardigan and crew sweater look especially fresh when worn with jacquard silk printed matchstick pants and pencil skirts.

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RACHEL RACHEL ROY Available at select Macy's and at macys.com

A Red Affair

The Dandy

She embraces her femininity by stealing masculinity. The match set takes a new dimension from shirts with skirts or pants. It’s the return of the pantsuit in 70’s-inspired geometric patterns. Glen plaids and tweeds are another focus of her gender-blended look. She commands attention with military details and equestrian silhouettes. Peplum shapes and triple layering give an extra dimension to this new aristocratic attitude.

The Collector

She is eccentric and mysterious; a “femme fatale” with an eye for eclectic excess inspired by the historical decadence of decades past. Medieval prints to ecclesiastic craft and Gothic inspiration play a big role here. Embellishment becomes positively ornamental with bold cabochon beading on jackets, dresses or skirts. Gold Baroque details and intricate scrolling are now seductive and edgy in a modern way. Velvet, lace and devoré are key here. Needlepoint is no longer a grandmother’s pastime! It’s the new inspiration for the downtown girl.

In Black & White

In her eyes, everything is black or…white! Optional primary accents of color may add a stunning contradiction. You’ll see everything from conversational, landscape, surrealist patterns, photo prints and stylized black and white florals. Bold black and white banding or color blocking and sheer detail come into play as well. There is also a surprising juxtaposition of leather, ciré, velvet and new geometrics. With the “iconic” Pierrot clown as her muse, the mood is romantic, unsuspecting and totally mesmerizing.

REMAIN / 7 FOR ALL MANKIND - Remain asymmetrical draped top, polyester CDC, tawny, $88. 7 For All Mankind skinny jeans, cotton/polyester/spandex, black coated, $169. In t.b.d. at Nordstrom and online at Nordstrom.com.

Find your fabulous

By Lina LaSalle

E

very woman needs a little drama in her fall wardrobe, something ultra-stylish that increases wear ability without losing that fashionable flare. It's about evolving your items into the next season. You give something you've loved and worn a new life by wearing it with something new. It is best to update, not redo your wardrobe. Taking a blouse and bringing it together with an earth-tone skirt and tropical wrap is one possible way.

A soft blouse is an elegant addition, available in beautiful solids and rich prints. With or without a necktie it pairs well with everything, it’s the perfect choice to layer under a vest or jacket.

Hemlines have become one of the hottest choices for a slim and defined waist paired with high platform heels keep the look feminine and sophisticated. A timeless handbag adds a perfect finishing touch with softly structured satchels and saddle bags inspired by authentic riding tact have an equestrian elegance for almost any occasion. Made from rich saddle brown leathers and exotic skins speak to the understated luxury of the season.

Build a wardrobe that works, as this becomes part of your style.

You should thoughtfully consider every single piece and ask if you can wear this in at least two situations (work, weekend or evening) and will it pair with at least one or two other items in my wardrobe?

Fabric choices are very important; something lightweight and airy, maybe lightweight chambray denim for more casual pieces or tropical wool, the weave is more open and looks refined. Cotton is breathable than other fabrics, removing moisture and heat away from your skin to keep you cool and dry. Warm shades of orange, amber and green are trends for fall, but they're not dark colors, either, so they fit into a variety of seasonal regions. Stylish items don't have to be limited to a single season, and it's those more lasting looks that will transition into the upcoming season.

Be it a dress, skirt, blouse or jacket.

Are you color cautious? Then maybe a bright hued handbag or dark print with bold accent colors is a stylish choice. Bold shades of emerald, indigo and scarlet add a colorful edge to the season.

Either contrasted with black or worn as a color blocked Mondrianinspired outfit, the look is undeniably modern.

Be sure to try them on, looking put together and well-groomed for any event is an important factor when considering if your clothing is appropriate and that it fits properly. Vera Wang once said, "A woman is never sexier than when she is comfortable in her clothes." If your outfit is too tight, too big or too low-cut, it will show in the way you wear them. To ensure a good fit beyond trying the clothes on, ask… Many Stylist are there to help you find your own fashionista. Remember that good clothes and the right clothes can help complete your polished look and say great things about you without whispering a word.

Embracing the season's trends and choosing crisp layers for a classic, chic look is another way to make a statement by adding outerwear to become a focal point, while cozy, lite knits and tops play an accompanying role. Understated luxury can be found in rich autumnal shades, heritage plaids, menswear fabrics, supple leathers and plush wools, as these build the foundations of your fall closet.

This season's trends embrace some of what’s fresh for fall, from luxurious velvet, sheer and exotic cottons, put together with fine jewelry and a few accessories. Simple lines are important in the construction of a garment and the purity of simple, clean-lined pieces that have a modern sensibility, along with sculptural metal jewelry which are essential for creating the new minimal look.

The tricky part is that while it's good to infuse the excitement of a new season to go from the runway to your closet, it is best to create new ideas from previous seasons. Designers have always delighted us with the unexpected. This season is no different; a spectrum of bright colors is a welcome surprise. Retailers have begun the transition from lightweight and lighthearted clothes to the more dressed-up, sophisticated styles that come with fall fashion. Online clothing sites make shopping easy and convenient, and with the wide variety of clothing options out there today, clothing can be anything that you want it to be and can send any message that you choose.

Shoppers can be enthusiastic about their new purchases, so you should know how to spend your money. If you’re financially solvent, spend 75 percent of your budget on trends and 25 percent on classics. If your budget is tight, flip those percentages.

The styles of fall are rich, layered and well put together. Definitely follow your own style, learn and celebrate fashion in your city.

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TORY BURCH Tory Burch ‘Kerry’ silk blouse, beetle print, long sleeves, silk, blue/ white, $295. ‘Walda’ sweater, scarab print, merino wool; back panel is silk/wool, deep sea split hex jacquard, $325. ‘Leigh’ A-line skirt side zip closure, lined, wool/silk twill, deep sea split hex, $350. In Individualist at Nordstrom and nordstrom.com.

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MISS WU Miss Wu ‘Radiant Faille’ feather dress, a Nordstrom exclusive. Cotton/ silk, black, $995. In via C at Nordstrom and nordstrom.com.

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BAR III Vest $69 Dress $79

Available at select Macy's and at macys.com

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BAR III Vest $89 Dress $64

Available at select Macy's and at macys.com

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Women's Large Link Necklace, $40 Women's Cotton Voile Oversized Floral Scarf, $30 Women's Trista Slingback Espadrille, $50 Women's Plus Fit 2 Arc Denim White Jean, $85 Women's Plus Flutter Sleeve V-neck Tunic, $30

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Women's Margot Elastic Espadrille, $70 Women's Link & Toggle Bracelet, $15 Women's Triple Metal Bangle Set, $35 Women's Plus Long Sleeve Floral Print Fine Guage Supima Cardigan, $90 Women's Plus Short Sleeve Drape Neck Tee, $25 Women's Coin Pocket Wide Leg Bedford Pant, $80

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The timeless beauty and colors found in nature are celebrated in PANDORA’s new Spring/Summer 2012 collection. The new collection, entitled “Floral Nostalgia,” features more than 100 new jewelry pieces that combine classic feminine details with contemporary designs and includes hand-finished rings, charms, pendants, earrings and watches.

New additions to the Moments collection include sterling silver and 14K gold openwork charms in floral and ornamental designs; Murano glass beads in colors ranging from soft pastels and trendy neon brights to neutral earth tones, as well as whimsical designs, such as the two-tone dragonfly clip, flower basket charm and red enamel poppy charm.

Based on consumer request, several of the more popular charms, such as the Open Your Heart charm as well as the Key to My Heart charm and the Seashell charm, which previously were only available in 14K gold or two-tone styles, have been released in sterling silver to keep with PANDORA’s promise of offering affordable luxury at a wide range of price points.

Several new dangle charms featuring flower motifs or faceted onyx and cultured pearls have been added, as well as floralinspired clips.

Other standouts of the new collection include a delicate 14K gold ring and pendant with cabochoncut white opal gemstones; a carved mother of pearl flower encircled in 14K gold and set in a sterling silver ring with coordinating pendant; and a delicate openwork sterling silver dragonfly pendant. A sterling silver bouquet blossom ring with 14K gold details makes a statement on its own or when worn with coordinating pendant, wreath necklace or long floral earrings.

Delicate flower-embellished hooks, pendants and hoops have been added to PANDORA’s Compose collection of interchangeable earrings. New earrings designs also include cabochon-cut onyx and white quartzite studs; white quartzite dangles; and white cultured pearl earrings set in sterling silver.

The collection is available now at authorized PANDORA retailers nationwide.

Behind the clothes...

By Samantha Ramos Photography Mary Beth logan

A jet-setting international model, actress and activist. Summer Crosley started life in a small town, among the green acres and national forests. Later, heading to Miami to start her career in modeling, along with some noted shows as Nip Tuck and Californication.

We get a chance to speak with Summer for a moment, one on one.

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What drew you to the world of fashion?

I was drawn to the world of fashion at a very young age. By the time I was 12, I would subscribe to every fashion magazine that was out and try to copy the makeup and wardrobe looks. It was all so intriguing to me.

Have you had any notable mentors that have guided you through the industry?

My mother is my biggest mentor, always supporting me and giving me the confidence I needed to keep going. But really it has just been myself staying positive, confident and motivated. Without those three key things you probably wont succeed in this industry! So much competition.

What has been the most surprising thing you have learned?

The most surprising thing I have learned is that you just never know what will happen next in this industry. I grew up very shy and was scared to death of a video camera near me, but somehow I landed a role on the TV series Californication. So you just near know, maybe I was not so shy after all. Or you may appear different to the people around you.

What has been your biggest fear and how did you overcome it?

My biggest fear is that I would fail, I remember ten years ago going to a open call at a major agency and they were not interested in me, and that had to do with not having enough images in my portfolio and lack of experience in front of a camera, I was so bummed out and thought all my hopes and dreams of modeling/acting were over. But instead of giving up I did more test shoots, which are important for models, and ended up booking me a major ad campaign for Ralph Lauren sunglasses. So I was able to overcome my biggest fear of being told "we are not interested" and using that to even succeed more!

What excites you about your industry?

I love the travel aspect. I have seen some amazing place the past couple years, Africa, Fiji, and Bali.

Wow all so amazing and the cultures are so intriguing to me.

Having worn many designer outfits, any favorites?

For designer clothing I love high end resort wear looks for summer, like the Mara Hoffman swim collection. For casual looks I love a designer pair of jeans and a t shirt. Simple yet sexy. But when I go out at night I defiantly love to glam it up and go for a Herve Ledger dress.

Being so photogenic, who is your favorite photographer?

My favorite photographer is Mario Testino

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How would you describe your personal style?

Personal style is jean short, or jeans and t shirt.

Having traveled the world, what would be your favorite destinations and why?

My favorite destination is Africa. So many of the wildlife over there are becoming extinct, elephants, lions, panda bears, and we must do something about it. I was not aware of how big of a problem it was until I traveled there last summer to learn about it.

How does Summer Crosley relax?

I relax with massage, yoga, and pilates.

Having done Californication, what were the most stimulating moments with the show?

THE MOST stimulating moments working on Californication, wow actually all of it was stimulating. The cast and crew are some of the most professional and motivating people to be around and I learned a lot from them. I never felt nervous or intimidated! It was great.

Did you ever find it difficult with the transitions between modeling and film?

Yes for me film is much more difficult than modeling. In film you have scripts, acting, memorizing lines, and lots of interactions with the camera and crew, on a average film set there could be 30-50 people around you. Whereas with modeling, it is usually a team of 5 or so people and you just have to look pretty in front of the camera. But still deliver a quality image What’s your biggest pet peeve?

My biggest pet peeve is usually large crowds of people and people pushing by me. I can’t stand it! lol

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What got you started with your humanitarian efforts of protecting our oceans?

I got started in Ocean Conservations after traveling to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Fiji, Africa, and noticed there is a huge decrease in our fish and coral life.

This is due to the pollution and litter in our oceans. Plastic debris is killing fish and coral, and we must do our part and stop littering the beaches. It is our fault our ocean life is in danger and we must take action and prevent it. So I started organizing ocean conservation groups and educating people on the importance of this matter.

With our busy lives, do you believe it is difficult for people to become eco-friendly?

Yes I believe people forget about the importance of ocean conservation.

Especially during the summer time, the beaches draw a lot of crowds, people pack up food and drinks and bring it to the beach, but then they leave there trash in the sand, which ends up getting washed out into the ocean. Next thing you know, our fish our becoming extinct This really is a core determination from you, what do you feel people need to know about becoming a part of this important process?

People need to try not to be so selfish, if you are walking along the beach and see a empty plastic soda bottle that someone else left behind you should pick it up and throw it away, just because you did not leave it behind does not mean you cant help out and throw it away, just 1 piece makes a huge difference What advice could you give for aspiring models?

My advice is to stay positive, and confident. Without confidence you will not succeed in this industry. You must have thick skin and be able to deal with peoples criticisms told you.

What can we expect in the future from Summer Crosley?

You will see me in several publication editorials including the August issue of GQ magazine, which I just finished before this interview. Also, upcoming film projects that are soon to be released in the near future. So keep an eye out!

If there was one quote you would live by, what would it be?

My favorite quote is "peace comes from within, do not seek without"

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Beauty for Every Woman’s Skin

Luxury skin care brand blending eastern skin care philosophy and western dermatology. Amarte has been the leading skin care line in Asia since its Korean debut in 2001, and has just launched in the U.S. under the direction of board certified dermatologist Craig Kraffert, President of Amarte Cosmetics and Founder of DermStore.com. Amarte products follow a unique, multifaceted regimen – cleanse, hydrate, rejuvenate and protect – designed to bring out the clarity, brilliance, and beauty of every woman’s skin. All products are dermatologist tested, approved, and recommended by Dr. Kraffert himself.

• Highest retinol content in the industry: Amarte has designed a proprietary retinol preparation method to deliver the highest retinol content available (the Eyeconic Eye Cream clocks in at 3.8%!), using Eastern nanoparticle technology to promote deep penetration and tolerability, in conjunction with bioorganic ingredients that fully nourish skin.

• Advanced formulation technology beyond U.S. capabilities: Amarte’s formulational mastery synergizes East and West traditions under guidance of scientists at Korea’s BioRIC and artists at Amarte, creating a symphony of science and nature that elevates the health and beauty of all skin types.

• ActivElements and ActivExtracts: Conventional Western ingredients are traditionally simple substances sourced from a few key suppliers. Amarte’s eastern methods combine bioorganic extracts and elements in complex, time consuming methods. Periodic elements (titanium, zinc), active moisturizers (hyaluronic acid, ceramides) and multifunctional molecules are combined with unique natural extracts (mushroom emollients, mallow, elder and lily flowers) in ways not touched by western science.

• Airless pump technology: For maximized purity and skin care benefits, Amarte uses innovative airless pump technology, which preserves natural ingredients and ensures formulas remain consistent and product is completely dispensed.

• A skin loving regimen worthy of your dressing table: Like a multicourse meal, each step in an Amarte regimen (cleanse, hydrate, rejuvenate, protect) is to be enjoyed in context with the overall experience. Clarity, brilliance and beauty are the fundamental goals of all Korean skin care regimens, and Amarte adheres to these strict standards with regimens that optimize cleanliness, overall brightness and lucidity.

CLEANSE • Amarte Daily ExfoliPowder ($35): This 2-in-1 Wonder Wash uses refined, plant seed-based exfoliant to remove dry dull skin and gently cleanse in this formula delicate enough for daily use. Shake the powder onto hands and rub to activate the creamy cleanser, and smooth skin to reveal the most radiant you.

• Amarte Daily Wonder Cleansing Foam ($40): A whipped-to-perfection cleanser made to refresh and pamper all skin types including oily and acne-prone complexions. Rich with ActivElements, its creamy lather lifts away impurities and prepares skin for hydration.

HYDRATE • Amarte Aqua Veil Hydrator ($65): A cucumber-infused, ultra-light serum that optimizes hydration by releasing droplets of pure H²0 onto the skin to form a protective veil. A skin toner and serum in one, this unique moisturizer gives skin a silky, youthful radiance.

REJUVENATE • Amarte Wonder Cream ($79): One of the most highly regarded products of the Amarte line, Wonder Cream aids in anti-aging and restoration, lightening sunspots while its rich therapeutic properties and mushroom emollient lovingly exfoliate and nourish skin for a supple, translucent complexion.

• Amarte Hydro Lift Cream ($59): Strong enough to help reduce wrinkles and aging lines, but soft enough to hydrate and replenish the skin at any age. The silky formula protects, while retinol and adenine fight to alleviate the skin of wrinkles. Filled with caviar extracts and acacia collagens, this unique formula makes the skin brighter.

• Amarte Eyeconic Eye Cream ($51): An anti-wrinkle rejuvenator that delivers the highest levels of enhanced-stability pure retinol, ActivExtracts, and ActivElements to give vitality and resiliency to the eye area. Deeply hydrating, it nourishes skin and promotes elasticity without irritation.

PROTECT • Amarte Natural Finish BB Cream ($49): This finely pigmented moisturizing face tint brightens, softly conceals and protects with SPF 36, providing uniform coverage without caking or flaking for a long lasting, natural glow. In Light and Dark.

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Think

Pink!

Supersmile is pleased to announce that they will again be donating 20% of PINK 45° Angled Toothbrush sales during the month of October to the SHARE Breast Cancer Charity. The 45˚ Angled Toothbrush combines sleek design with superior function and clever utility, assuring fool-proof brushing and is the only toothbrush that is designed to stand upright which is essential for hygienic drying. The toothbrush is available for $9 at Supersmilestore.com and local retailers. Celeb fans include: Jennifer Lopez, LeAnn Rimes, Kristen Bell and Adam Sandler to name a few.

DECLÉOR, the Cosmetic Aromatherapy expert, will be launching DECLÉOR Aromatherapy Coffrets during October for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For the 7th consecutive year, DECLÉOR will donate (10%) of net proceeds of the Aromatherapy Coffrets sold during the month of October to Cancer and Careers, a program of CEW Foundation. Each of the five exclusive Aromatherapy Coffrets includes a protecting treatment day serum and repairing night balm, uniquely paired and perfectly curated for a specific skin type: Normal, Sensitive, Dry, Combination/Oily and Mature. Each set features an Aromessence™ Serum and corresponding night balm, both made from 100% pure and natural essential oils sourced from around the world, and together offer a skincare program to treat, protect and repair the skin, while addressing the skincare concern from within. Sets are sold for $84 at DecleorUSA.com

During the month of October, G.M. Collin skincare donates $2 of each sold product of Daily Ceramide Comfort Capsules to Pink Ribbons Inc. The Daily Ceramide Comfort system is a replenishing and nourishing skin care supplement in practical single dose capsules that protects the skin against environmental elements and reduces the skin stress and irritation while improving hydration.

It’s sold for $95 at spas nationwide and select online retailers.

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Mary

Molded cup bikini with underwire, gathered halter straps with decorative element and additional normal, detachable straps H2 medium bottoms Wider straps from C-cup Back lining and wider fastener from E-cup Wider straps, back lining and wider fastener from size 42 B 36 – 42 A 36 – 44 B – E Fabric: sensitive classic

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Fit & Comfort Anita has five subdivisions of intimate apparel and swimwear catering to women of all body shapes. The different levels of support and styles in the Comfort swimwear collection allow for flexibility and versatility; Anita Care provides women who have undergone mastectomies the freedom of movement and a feeling of security without sacrificing fashion; Pregnant and nursing women can find flattering swimwear, nursing and maternity intimates that grow with their changing bodies from Anita Maternity; and the Rosa Faia line’s “Island Hopping” collection includes pieces inspired by tropical beaches from exotic destinations that makes escaping to paradise as easy as mixing and matching swimsuit tops and bottoms.

Over 127 years’ experience and a clear eye for quality, function, and comfort make Anita International one of the most authoritative intimate apparel specialists in the world. With a diverse line of products that cater to women of all body types and ages, Anita offers unique products that give women confidence. Anita retails from $48 - $100, to find a retailer please visit www.anita.com

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Mary

Molded cup bikini with underwire, gathered halter straps and additional normal, detachable straps H2 medium bottoms, with opaque lining at front Wider straps from C-cup Back lining and wider fastener from E-cup Wider straps, back lining and wider fastener from size 42 B 36 – 44 B – E Fabric: Classic Opaque with microfiber

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Paulina

Molded cup bikini with underwire and push-up effect Adjustable straps H2 medium bottoms Wider fastener and wider straps from size 42 Wider straps in D-cup in all sizes 36 – 42 A – C 36 – 40 D Fabric: Sensitive Seric

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The Ultimate Icon Wearing The Ultimate Tan

KATE MOSS IS NEVER NAKED WITHOUT ST.TROPEZ

St.Tropez, the iconic and leading global self-tan brand announces the appointment of Kate Moss as the new face and body of the brand.

The world’s most famous fashion and beauty icon brings her unique edge and personality to the brand’s first-ever global advertising campaign. Kate says of her new signing: ‘I’m so excited to be working with St.Tropez. I’ve been using the products since they started and it’s a really trustworthy, cool brand.

I always feel more confident with a St.Tropez tan!’

Michelle Feeney, CEO of PZ Cussons Beauty, owners of St.Tropez, said: ‘We’re absolutely thrilled that Kate Moss has chosen to work with us on our new campaign: it gives us the ultimate stamp of approval on the quality of our products. Kate epitomises St.Tropez’s naturally glamorous approach to self-tanning and is a longtime advocate of the brand.

As a global beauty brand with a heritage in tanning, St.Tropez is now in 18 countries and women from Rio to L.A are seeking the benefits of safe tanning. Kate’s fashion icon status is important to us but now her growing number of beauty campaigns proves that her appeal as a beauty icon resonates with confident women across all age groups globally. Not only is she beautiful but she has this amazing attitude. St.Tropez is about confidence.’

Featuring Kate Moss wearing the ultimate tan—the campaign’s strapline—the iconic images, inspired by the high glamour associated with pool-side summers, will be seen in global print and online advertising and in-store from the summer. St.Tropez’s social media campaign will kick-start global participation by encouraging women to tweet when they’re #OFFTOSTTROPEZ for the ultimate tan. St.Tropez will be enhancing tweeters’ ultimate tans by sending them suitably riviera-chic content and prizes. One follower and a friend will even be sent on holiday #OFFTOSTTROPEZ. For fashion and beauty fans wanting to get the ‘Kate Tan’ as seen in the campaign, Nichola Joss, St.Tropez Global Tanning and SkinFinishing Expert, advises: ‘Skin-finishing and tanning has become part of our regular beauty regime and St.Tropez products offer incredible versatility, taking you from beach to party, summer to winter. To achieve Kate’s pool-side bronze for the shoot, the St.Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse applied with a St.Tropez Applicator Mitt gives a natural-looking, streak-free result with a flawless finish. St.Tropez Powder Bronzer perfects the look with a beautiful contoured effect and enhances the natural shape of Kate’s body.’

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FULL BLOOM D E SI G N S F I LLED WI TH J UI CY COLOR

Photography Ryan Young Models: Jade & Stefani of Courtier Modeling Agency Makeup: Kerri Metcalf Hair: Louise McEwen Swimwear by: Monique FagrĂŠ FOCUS of SWFL 2013 145

Photography Ryan Young Swimwear by: Monique Fagré

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Monique Fagre has made a name for itself in highend custom swimwear with its signature, hand-sewn artistry. Monique Fagre’s unique swim designs project the perfect image for today’s sophisticated, fashionwise woman. Monique Fagre has accomplished this by making sure each design is not just a swimsuit, but a personal swim masterpiece; a certified, one-of-a-kind creation. From rendering the initial sketch, to incorporating a wide variety of lace, ribbon, semi-precious stone, and silk thread, we craft each Monique Fagre as the artist crafts a portrait on canvas.

During its brief ascension, Monique Fagre has exploded on the fashion scene in fashion events as well as print and broadcast media features and interviews local, national and international, periodicals, television and internet. Just to name a few events, Monique Fagre has figured prominently in Phoenix Fashion Week, Valley Vintage, Scottsdale Fashion Week, The NFL Arizona Cardinal Cheerleaders Swimsuit Calendar, The Fashionably Pink Runway Show and too many others to name.

Monique Fagre has definitely arrived.

All the while, Monique Fagre remains keenly aware of its philanthropic duty. Monique Fagre is proud to have assisted such worthy causes as The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, The Florence Crittendon Foundation, and The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Most recently, Monique Fagre has expanded its horizons into custom embellishment on demand, rather than just ready-made creations. Moreover, Monique Fagre now crafts custom clothing and costumes for every occasion in addition to its spectacular swimsuits. Whether it's a private party, promotional gala, fashion shoot or music video, we at Monique Fagre stand ready to stamp our unique sense of style and creativity upon the project with intricate design and embellishment to exceed even the wildest of expectations.

Make a decision to dress your event for guaranteed, monumental success. Decide on originality. Decide on sophistication. Decide on awe-inspiring. Decide on Monique Fagre, the best decision you will ever make.

www.moniquefagre.com

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Photography Ryan Young Swimwear by: Monique Fagré

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White Sands JimJordan

www.jimjordanphotography.com

Photography: Jim Jordan

Director: Jim Jordan, represented by White Cross

Dress: White Cross Collections

Jewelry: TSL

Hair: Steve Mason

Makeup: Megumi

All Cosmetics: White Cross Cosmetics

Stylist: Charlie Altuna

Location: White Sands, New Mexico

Production: White Cross Productions

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Photography: Jim Jordan

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Photography: Jim Jordan 156 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

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Ageless Jewelry

By Lisa Giddings

When it comes to timeless jewelry, we often think of diamonds and pearls as being the only alternative.

However, not everyone can afford such luxuries. And since fashion trends and styles are constantly changing, it can be difficult to accessorize especially when you are on a budget. The good news is that classic pieces of jewelry can grow with your wardrobe and last for several years to come. The key to selecting timeless pieces that will stand the test of time is choosing ones that are handcrafted by experienced artisans.

Factory-spewed and mass-produced jewelry is a thing of the past. These days, the latest trends in jewelry have everything to do with the handmade marketplace.

The latest trends in handmade designer jewelry include polished natural stones, sea glass and colored crystals.

You can purchase a timeless piece of jewelry to accentuate just about any outfit.

Elegant Earrings Dazzling designer earrings crafted with semi-precious stones and sterling silver is just one style of timeless jewelry trends that are popular today. The lengths of the earrings can vary from studs to chandelier earrings that dangle below the jaw line. The hottest color trends include pastel palettes featuring sea greens and cool blues. Paired with a cocktail dress or even jeans and a t-shirt, a pair of elegant earrings can give any outfit a polished look.

The Statement Necklace The statement necklace is made out of a wide variety of materials from large stones to sea glass and even fabric. These striking pieces can turn even the most ordinary outfit into something extraordinary. No wonder many celebrities gracing the red carpet choose a statement necklace to pull their look together. The timeless nature of a statement necklace makes it the perfect companion for your wardrobe. Mix and match it with different outfits, regardless of the season, to turn heads all year long!

Bountiful Bracelets Chunky beaded bracelets and sterling silver charm bracelets are the most popular bracelets available in the handmade marketplace. The uniqueness of certain bracelets is what makes them timeless. Vintage charms, found objects and antique buttons are just a few of the materials used in quality crafted designer bracelets. Paired with new chains and findings, these timeless bracelets are worthy enough to grace the arm of Hollywood’s latest starlet.

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“Love of beauty is Taste.

The creation of beauty is Art.�

- Ralph Waldo Emerson -

Sun-Kissed VincentGotti

www.thecandyfactorystudio.com

Photographer: Vincent Gotti (www.thecandyfactorystudio.com) Creative Director: Niccanor Hair: Josette Vigil-Jelveh Make Up Artist: Lisa Teller Stylist: Mandy Brown Models: Haley Scott (Stars Model Management) Bella Harris Lighting Specialist: Scott Nobles Post Digital Work: Mariel Montaner

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Photographer: Vincent Gotti

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Photographer: Vincent Gotti

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Photographer: Vincent Gotti

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Photographer: Vincent Gotti FOCUS of SWFL 2013 165

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"

The theme of this particular editorial was inspired by gorgeous, confident women vacationing on extravagant beach resorts who would wear form fitting bathing suits that emphasized their body in a way that was tasteful, yet very sexy. They would wear every piece of jewelry that best coordinated with their outfit so that they would be the center of attention, while appearing to have a facile approach to their day. When they would wear these outfits, they became the main character of their movie that no one seemed to know anything about.

We wanted to make sure that these models featured in this editorial radiated that confidence without trying too hard. The right scenery, the right wardrobe and the right expressions were extremely important in order to execute this whole editorial correctly.

"

Vincent Gotti

Photographer: Vincent Gotti (www.thecandyfactorystudio.com) Creative Director: Niccanor Hair: Josette Vigil-Jelveh Make Up Artist: Lisa Teller Stylist: Mandy Brown Models: Haley Scott (Stars Model Management), Bella Harris Lighting Specialist: Scott Nobles Post Digital Work: Mariel Montaner FOCUS of SWFL 2013 167

Screaming ManiZarrin 168 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

Photography by Mani Zarrin (www.manizarrin.com) Model: Ger Duany

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Photographer: Mani Zarrin (www.manizarrin.com) Special thanks: Steven Taylor

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Photographer: Mani Zarrin (www.manizarrin.com) Jewelry: NIMANY Model: Kristi Wilson, Q Model Management Makeup: Cheyenne Timperio

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Photography: mani Zarrin (www.manizarrin.com) Design: Rafael Cennamo

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Photographer: Mani Zarrin (www.manizarrin.com) Art Direction: Jenna Marsh Wardrobe Stylist: Coleen Mccann Make up: Hiroshi Yonemoto Hair: Pepper Pastor Model: Emily Wilson, New York Models Special thanks: DDC NYC

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er n g e i Des rofil P

Kris Jane

By Gwen Vikkey Miao Photography by Andy Kwan

Among thousands and thousands of design talents from around the globe coming up every year, Kris Jane, a brilliant young designer, whose breathtaking unique prints have caught the attention of many admirers. Who believe she plays a vital role in shaping new fashion rends.

"Kris Jane’s designs reflect a combination of elegant silhouette and a courageous experimentation with colors and patterns. It has been her obsession to create her own prints. Immediately after her university studies in Boston, Kris went on to pursue fashion design at the world-renowned Istituto Marangoni. Since then, it became clear that fashion was going to be her one true passion in life.

Kris created her own label in May 2012 in Hong Kong. She was fortunate enough, especially during her time in Europe, to travel extensively and be exposed to a multitude of cultures. She has never limited herself to one particular area of interest, which allows her to be appealing to a variety of different audiences."

Kris Jane collection of speechless beautiful print dresses which consists of the signature pleated silk chiffon maxi dress and retro style shirt dress. Obsessed with experimental print design, her love of bold colors and bright prints is clearly reflected in this gorgeous vivid summery “Oceanica” collection. As the name suggests, the collection is inspired by the ocean – its colors, creatures and shape. A long, flowy silhouette of the maxi dress which imitates the fluidity of sea waves exudes graceful femininity, sensuality and sexiness of an urban sea nymph. Don’t worry if you are not super confident enough in your shape to wear this figure hugging sexy maxi dress with cut out waist, go for the equally stunning yet more approachable shirt dress that would fit any body type and is perfect for any occasion. www.krisjane.com 176 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

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Where Beauty Begins 178 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

I have worked as a successful model for the past 15 years, and I began shooting back in 2009 after "on-set learning" while working with some great photographers that I met throughout my modeling career.

I still do model, but I love being behind the camera and envisioning an image through the inspiration created by a great location, model and wardrobe.

I shoot using natural light, and I love backlighting as I think it creates a romantic, almost ethereal mood.

KristinKerry www.kkerryphoto.com

Photographer: Kristin Kerry Model: Laticia Rolle Jacket: Double Zero Shirt: Ralph Lauren Pants: Michael Kors

Photographer Kristin Kerry Model: Sabrina Van Cleef Ault, Next Models Skirt: Nanette Lepore Black Tank: Banana Republic Necklace: Mariko, Palm Beach

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Photographer Kristin Kerry Model: Justine Wack, www.justinewack.com Dress: Betsey Johnson Vintage 180 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

Photographer Kristin Kerry Model: Johanna DaRu, Mega Models Dress: Gohar Rajabzadeh Boots: Aldo Jewelry: Guess

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Photographer Kristin Kerry Model: Ashley Thurman Dress: Shadiez Couture

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Photographer Kristin Kerry Model: Sabrina Van Cleef Ault, Next Models Dress: BCBG

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Singular Beauties MEGURBANI www.megurbaniphotography.com

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Photography- Meg Urbani Hair & Makeup- Amanda Forsyth Model- Masia Favero Muse NYC FOCUS of SWFL 2013 185

Photography- Meg Urbani Hair & Makeup- Amanda Forsyth Model- Ira S Muse NYC 186 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

Photography- Meg Urbani Hair & Makeup- Amanda Forsyth Model- Chantal Jones Muse NYC Styling- Eva Poleschinski Bodysuit- Wesley Nault

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Photography- Meg Urbani Hair & Makeup- Amanda Forsyth Model- Masia Favero Muse NYC 188 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

Photography- Meg Urbani Hair & Makeup- Amanda Forsyth Model- Suzi, Muse NYC

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Photography- Meg Urbani Makeup-Samantha Lennon Hair- Amanda Forsyth Styling- Eva Poleschinski Model- Taisia Melnyk Muse NYC Bodysuit: Sass and Bide Tulleskirt: [ep_anoui] FOCUS of SWFL 2013 191

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When the

art surrenders the sea

By Márcia Ávila Photography Ubarana Jr.

Demétrius Coelho Galeria de Artes

Just as a skilled Diamond cutter allows light to pass through the interior of various facets of the stone, the sculptor Demétrius Coelho works to deliver organic sculptures that are a real treat to the eyes that watch the magic of light reflected. All the languages of art were developed as attempts to turn the snapshot permanent. Only from this angle it is possible to conceptualize this artist proposes, through organic forms, sensual and intense, a dip that crosses the sensory load the immensity of the sea.

The works of the sculptor are true spaces clashes. Them are concentrated of ecological discourses and expectations of an awareness about the planet's future. Inserted comfortably next to the ocean, the rocks, the sun and the wind, you can see the soft line that separates reality from imagination.

According to Homer, the god Aeolus lived in a palace in a cave, where he kept the winds imprisoned in a leather bag. Odysseus gave the bag to move your ship, but when it was opened, the winds were freed ran the world. And so the sea became choppy and feared, but at the same time, a sculptor who rounded stones and modified rocks and cliffs. Inspiration of the Demétrius Coelho’s art!

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Artist Gallery

www.sbdac.com

Matlacha Spoken Here - by Leoma Lovegrove

Cesar Aguilar

36, Bingo! - by RenĂŠe Rey

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2013 the encounter - by Marcus Jansen's

Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York VG Bild-Kunst, Bonn - Courtesy: UNIT A, Fort Myers

The Heart of the City's Sky - by David Acevedo

Rhythmic Nature - by Ronnie Ford Submit request for submission to art@focusofswfl.com

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events & affairs

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S SING NETS CANNED GOODS, CASH FOR CHARITY

Residents who attended the 16th Annual A Midsummer Night’s Sing at First Presbyterian Church in downtown Fort Myers (July 23) opened their hearts and their wallets by contributing 1,000 pounds of food to benefit the Everyday Café and Marketplace (The Soup Kitchen), operated by Community Cooperative Ministries (CCMI).

Attendees also made cash contributions to help the charity, which serves more than 14,000 meals each month through their Everyday Café and Marketplace and Home Delivered Meals programs. CCMI also educates 40 children in their Community Montessori, offers homeless and comprehensive case management services through the United Way Resource House, and oversees an emergency mobile food pantry.

More than 500 people attended the performance, sponsored by the Galloway Family of Dealerships.

The popular event featured performances by Pianist Barbara Peterson, Organist Eddygrace Bernhard, Choral Director Rev. Roger Peterson, Soloists Beth Wininger, Dick Kuieck and Lalai Hamric, and the First Presbyterian Church Choir and Friends.

A Midsummer Night’s Sing is the second of three hymn sings sponsored annually by the Galloway Family of Dealerships.

The other two are Mrs. Edison’s Hymn Sing in February and the very popular Holiday Carol Sing in December. All three events benefit CCMI (The Soup Kitchen), which was started by First Presbyterian Church in 1984 to help alleviate hunger and suffering in Lee County.

First Presbyterian Church of Fort Myers is located at 2438 Second St., in downtown Fort Myers.

www.fpcfortmyers.org

“A Midsummer Night’s Sing” Sponsor Sam Galloway, Jr. (right) First Presbyterian Church members Harriet Hart, Sheryl deJong with Rev. Paul deJong of First Presbyterian Church of Fort Myers. and Ruth Moon sell cookbooks with a special recipe from the family of Sam Galloway, Jr.

Jenna Mann accompanies Arts Grande Dame Barbara B. Mann to “A Midsummer Night’s Sing.”

Local Philanthropist Berne Davis enjoys “A Midsummer Night’s Sing.”

Sam Galloway, Jr. with his mother-in-law Theresa Kellum (center) Song Leader Doug Molloy with his wife Charity and wife Kathy Galloway.

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Feed Your Child’s Mind

It may be hard to believe, but it is already that time of year when families start to say goodbye to summer and hello to the new school year. In preparation, attention shifts toward to-do lists filled with tasks such as buying school supplies, going clothes shopping and getting sports physical. What may not be on the list yet is making breakfast a priority. Why is breakfast an important addition to any back-to-school plan? Because this morning meal can help set kids up for success in the classroom.

Through research, it has been proven that when you feed a child’s mind with a nutrient-rich breakfast, he or she will perform better in school. A recent report by the American College of Sports Medicine, American School Health Association, GENYOUth Foundation and National Dairy Council shows that kids who eat breakfast in addition to being physically active have better memory, attention and behavior; and score higher on tests.

Not only does breakfast boost brain power, it also leads to improved nutritional status. This is because kids who skip breakfast don’t typically make up for the nutrients they miss at other meals throughout the day. When it comes to building a nutrient-rich breakfast, low-fat and fat-free milk, cheese and yogurt are smart foods to include. Together, they deliver a unique package of nine essential nutrients in a variety of tasty and affordable options. By including dairy in the morning meal, families also put themselves on track to meet the 2010 Dietary Guidelines, which recommends three daily servings of low-fat and fat-free dairy foods for people ages 9 and older. Find nutritious dairy recipes to prepare for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks at DairyMakesSense.com.

The bottom line is a healthy student is a better student. To feed your child’s mind this school year, fuel them with a nutrient-rich breakfast made with dairy every day. Here are some simple tips: • Keep breakfast foods on hand, like ready-to-eat cereals, yogurts, white and flavored milks and fruit. Kids can help themselves before they head out the door.

• Break breakfast boredom by eating foods like a ham and cheese sandwich or pizza.

• Take advantage of the School Breakfast Program. It offers a nutritious and convenient option for students who are pressed for time in the morning.

• Role model good breakfast behavior. When kids see that breakfast is a priority for adults, they will be more likely to eat it themselves.

• Mix breakfast up with milk. For example, prepare oatmeal with milk instead of water.

• Use yogurt to whip up a smoothie or build a parfait for a simple kid-friendly breakfast Family Features

Frosty Orange Banana Sipper Servings: 1 Prep time: 5 minutes 1 3 1 1

medium banana, peeled, chunked and frozen ounces frozen orange juice concentrate cup low-fat milk container (6 ounces) low-fat vanilla yogurt

Set milk in freezer 30 minutes before using. Combine all ingredients in a blender; blend until smooth and creamy. Pour into glass and enjoy.

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Our Love of Tea

Numi has teamed up with the nation’s first tea sommelier, James Labe, to offer a number of delicious concoctions that will warm the body and entice the senses. Inspired by Numi’s pure flavor blends and real ingredients, Labe created these delectable drinks below using all of the finest ingredients available.

Americans are having a love affair with tea – hot, iced and now, even in their cocktails. In fact, in 2010 we consumed well over 65 billion servings of tea. As the discovery of fine tea grows among consumers, the very best organic and premium teas are the fastest-growing segment of the market.

It’s no secret that the creation of fine cocktails has become an art, with mixologists and “bar chefs” insisting on only the best, freshest and most delicious ingredients. So it’s no surprise that Numi Organic Tea has become one of the bartenders’ most popular choices when they are infusing spirits or creating cocktails. Numi lets nature speak for itself, hand-picking premium organic teas and herbs and blending them with only real fruits, flowers and spices. Since the company uses real ingredients and high quality teas & herbs (not tea dust or fannings), there is no need to apply other, less genuine flavorings or fragrances to create flavor.

This season, Numi has teamed up with the nation’s first tea sommelier, James Labe, to offer a number of ingenious concoctions that will warm the body and entice the senses. Inspired

by Numi’s pure flavor blends and real ingredients, Labe created these delectable drinks below using all of the finest ingredients available.

By Erica Mayyasi

DUTCH TEA Created by James Labe 4 oz. Numi Chocolate Puerh Tea 2 oz. Van Gogh Dutch Chocolate Vodka 1 oz. Heavy Cream Sugar Steep 1 Numi Chocolate Pu-erh tea bag at normal strength with freshly boiled water for 3 minutes, then remove bag. Add Vodka and stir. Whip cream with a little sugar and float on top. Dust with Powdered Cocoa to garnish.

ORANGE SPICED CIDER Created by James Labe 1 Numi Orange Spice Tea Bag 8 oz. Apple Cider 2 oz. Ron Abuelo Añejo rum Heat Cider until very hot. Steep 1 Tea Bag directly in Cider for 5 minutes, covered. Uncover, add Rum and stir. Garnish with Cinnamon Stick.

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A Healthier You

Family Features

In a perfect world, everyone would eat healthfully, exercise regularly and find time for a little bit of fun every day. The reality is, busy schedules, family time and social activities make it challenging to stay on track. Here are a few easy ways to add more health and balance to your daily routine.

Eat Well.

Grow your own: It’s easy to eat more vegetables when you have a garden full of fresh produce growing outside your door. Planting a small garden in a raised bed or large pots will keep you eating healthy.

Nutrition on the go: The best way to stay on track is to be prepared. Start each day by packing a small cooler or insulated bag with a healthy lunch and nutritious snacks. Fresh fruit, veggie sticks and sandwiches made with a natural, whole grain bread, such as Roman Meal, are great options.

Stay Active.

Be flexible: Incorporate new forms of exercise into your routine, such as outdoor yoga. It’s a great way to beat boredom, build new muscles and keep exercise fun.

Find a fitness buddy: Get your girlfriends involved in your plans for better health. Meet up several times a week for exercise excursions, such as bike rides or long walks.

Play Often.

Explore other cultures: Learn to cook healthy cuisine from other countries. Use the natural whole grain goodness of Roman Meal bread as a part of a healthy Mediterranean meal or take advantage of summer vegetables to make a Japanese stir fry.

Best of Summer Avocado Veggie Sandwich Prep Time: 10 Minutes Ready In: 10 Minutes Servings: 2 1/2 1 1/8 4 2 2 4 8 12

avocado, very ripe, peeled tablespoon fresh lemon juice teaspoon salt slices Roman Meal bread tablespoons red wine vinegar lettuce leaves slices tomato slices cucumber slices sweet bell pepper

Take a class: Keep your mind healthy by taking one of the many classes available at a local bookstore, college or gym. You may just find a new hobby you can enjoy for a lifetime.

For more recipes and healthy living tips, visit www.romanmeal.com.

Combine avocado, lemon juice and salt in small bowl. Spread mixture evenly over 2 slices of bread.

Place tomatoes, cucumber and peppers on covered surface. Drizzle with vinegar.

Layer lettuce, tomato, cucumbers and peppers evenly between slices of bread, creating 2 sandwiches.

Nutrition: Calories: 210; Total Fat: 9g; Cholesterol: 0 mg; Sodium: 360mg; Total Carbohydrate: 30g; Dietary Fiber: 7g; Protein: 7g; Whole Grains: 21g.

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Talkin' PUDDIN' When 25-year-old Clio Goodman opened her pudding shop in NYC in January 2012, she completely sold out within the first few hours. Since then, the little pudding shop, Puddin’, in the heart of the Lower East Side has continued to be mobbed by customers and media, sending young Clio Goodman for the culinary ride of her life. Clio’s devotion to creating and reviving the beloved American classic comfort food has taken her all the way to the publication of her own cookbook, PUDDIN’. With the help of food writer, creator and chef Adeena Sussman, Clio’s creative passion has been transformed into book form.

In PUDDIN’ you will find more than 70 delicious gluten free pudding recipes, including: -THE BASICS – Chocolate, Vanilla, Butterscotch -NEW FAVORITES – Experiments in Clio’s kitchen turn out the most decadent and unique of flavors, including “My Bro’s Malted Milk Pudding,” “Roasted Cashew Pudding,” and “Passion Fruit Pudding.”

-TOPPINGS – Cooking and cake toppings, candies and crunchy toppings, sauces and compote toppings – Clio shows you how to make them all, from scratch.

- PUDDING PARFAITS – Your pudding favorites layered with the finest of cakes and toppings. Recipes include Caramel Macchiato, Lemon Drop, and Peach Melba.

- PUDDING CAKES AND PIES – Make special occasions even more memorable with pudding! Hazelnut Crepe Cake, Boston Crème Pie, and Coconut Cream Custard Tart are among the delicious recipes included.

- PUDDING POPS – What could be better than pudding on a stick? Enjoy frozen pudding goodness in flavors ranging from Mint Chip to Piña Colada.

Vanilla PuddinG

• {

SeRveS 6–8

}

It may seem like heresy to some, but I love vanilla so much that chocolate comes in a distant second. Growing up, I got in the habit of dabbing my mom’s Madagascar vanilla extract behind my ears, and it quickly became my signature scent. I usually avoid using flavor extracts in my recipes, but this one is an exception—the round, floral, and musky notes of good-quality vanilla extract reinforce the flavor achieved by infusing the milk and cream with a scraped vanilla bean. And you can forget about vanilla’s reputation for being “boring”—even sworn chocoholics are converted once they taste this version. one spoonful of this pure, simple treat, and you’ll see why.

2 1⁄2 cups whole milk 2 1⁄2 cups heavy cream 1 vanilla bean, split, seeds scraped out and reserved 1 cup sugar 6 tablespoons cornstarch 6 egg yolks 1⁄4 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

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1.

In a medium saucepan heat the milk, cream, and vanilla bean and seeds until steaming but not boiling. Remove from heat and allow to steep 30 minutes. Chill completely in refrigerator, 1–2 hours.

2.

Add sugar, cornstarch, egg yolks, and salt to saucepan and whisk vigorously.

3.

Place pot over medium-high heat and cook, whisking constantly, until mixture begins to thicken, 5–6 minutes. (Once you can lift the whisk from the pudding and it leaves a faint shadow, it’s done. Pudding will seem fairly loose, but it will thicken up further as it chills.)

4.

Strain the pudding through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing pudding through sieve with a silicone spatula. Whisk in vanilla extract.

5.

Cool at room temperature for 10 minutes, press a layer of plastic wrap onto the surface of the pudding, and chill completely in refrigerator, 2 hours.

S u g g e S t e d pa i r i n g S :

salted caramel sauce (page 58); fudge sauce (page 61); cherry compote (page 63)

Excerpted from PUDDIN’ by Clio Goodman Copyright © 2013 by Clio Goodman. Excerpted by permission of Spiegel & Grau, a division of Random House, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

4 • PUDDIN’

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Mealtime

Easy as 1, 2, 3

The days just keep getting busier and busier. Schedules are more hectic and, too often, meals take a backseat to family chaos. Instead of opting for delivery or carry-out, build a repertoire of nutritious, delicious and quick recipes that can be prepared at home for the entire family to enjoy.

A salad is a simple mealtime solution for a household on the go. This Beans & Greens Salad takes less than 15 minutes to assemble when you begin with a pantry staple, a can of READ 3 or 4 Bean Salad, and just four other ingredients. Already seasoned and ready to eat, this salad is chock-full of green beans, wax beans, kidney beans and chickpeas in a tangy, slightly sweet dressing. Toss the bean salad with mixed greens and lemony vinaigrette, then top with crumbled bacon and cheese, if desired. For additional recipes and more information about READ Salads, visit www.readsalads.com.

Not only is it easy to make, it’s very versatile whether served as a side salad or a light, meatless main dish. The addition of sliced cooked chicken or beef makes a heartier entree. You’ll feel good about this meal, and you’ll feel even better about your newly acquired spare time.

Family Features

Beans & Greens Salad Servings: 4 Prep Time: 15 minutes 1 2 2

1 4

can (15 ounces) READ 3 or 4 Bean Salad tablespoons lemon juice or white wine vinegar tablespoons olive oil Coarsely ground black pepper package (about 10 ounces) mixed salad greens with carrots slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled, about 1/4 cup, optional Shaved Parmesan or Asiago cheese, optional

Drain bean salad well; reserve 1/2 cup liquid in small bowl. For dressing, whisk together bean liquid and lemon juice, then whisk in oil. Add pepper, as desired.

Place salad greens in bowl. Add bean salad and bacon, if desired. Add dressing, as desired. Toss gently to coat. Arrange on platter; top with shaved cheese, if desired.

Nutrition information per serving (1/4 of recipe): 153 calories; 2 g protein; 20 g carbohydrate; 7 g fat; 389 mg sodium; 0 mg cholesterol; 4 g dietary fiber; 2 mg iron; 0 mg thiamin; 4587 IU vitamin A; 22 mg vitamin C. Variation: Top salad with sliced cooked chicken or beef, then top with cheese.

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Raising the Bar

on Healthy Smiles Family Features

Sports drinks, energy drinks and those must-have morning coffees all have one thing in common – they typically contain an abundance of sugar or sugar-alternatives that are harmful to the health of those pearly whites. Another beverage, whose ingredients can also wreak havoc on your smile, is always the life of the party – the cocktail.

“Selecting healthy, natural superfoods with specific functions improves the ability of our body to create that beautiful smile we all desire,” said Dr. Ken Banks, AACD cosmetic dentist and contributor to the recipe collection.

According to recent studies, cocktails infused with wholesome ingredients can improve immunity and offer a tasty tonic for teeth.

The next time you are looking for refreshment, seek beverages that use fruits, vegetables, grains, and other superfood ingredients.

Fresh Ideas for Entertaining To share insight on creating healthier beverages, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) partnered with professional mixologists, Ira Koplowitz and Nick Kosevich owners of Bittercube, to create “Raising the Bar on Healthy Smiles.” This online collection of original, curative cocktail recipes benefits smiles while offering a unique twist to entertaining. For more recipes to drink to your oral health, visit www.aacd.com/smilebar.

“There are numerous accounts throughout history of monks, physicians and alchemists who were interested in distilled alcohol as a cure for ailments, so it makes sense that these great-tasting recipes could also have healthy benefits,” said Koplowitz.

When creating drinks for your next party or social gathering, adding these ingredients may benefit oral health: Strawberries: The malic acid in strawberries acts as a safe bleaching agent that rivals many expensive teeth whitening products.

Pineapple: These flavorful fruits contain vitamin K and C, as well as other substances that promote healing. Eating pineapple generates a healing alkaline response in the mouth.

Carrot juice: Essential for forming tooth enamel, carrot juice is loaded with vitamin A. Ginger: This spicy yet sweet root has anti-inflammatory properties, which support healthy mouth tissue.

Try these refreshing drink recipes, which use healthy ingredients for cheery cocktails that will make your guests smile big at your next gathering.

From the Wild Recipe courtesy of Ira Koplowitz and Nick Kosevich, owners of Bittercube

2 1 1/2 1/2 1/4 1 3

strawberries, muddled ounces white rum ounce cane syrup (see recipe below or substitute with simple syrup) ounce fresh lime juice dropper Bittercube Blackstrap bitters ounces sparkling water Strawberry slice and vertically slit lime wedge, as garnish Cane Syrup: 1 cup hot water 1 cup evaporated cane juice To make cane syrup, bring water to a boil, remove from heat, add evaporated cane juice and whisk until combined.

For cocktail, muddle strawberries in mixing glass. Add remaining ingredients except sparkling water and lightly shake with ice. Double strain into tall glass over ice. Top with 3 ounces sparkling water, stir briefly.

Upon Return Recipe courtesy of Ira Koplowitz and Nick Kosevich, owners of Bittercube

3 1-inch cubes of pineapple 1/3 ounce agave syrup 1 1/2 ounces brandy or cognac 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice 1/4 ounce Curacao liqueur 1 dropper Bittercube Cherry Bark Vanilla Bitters Lemon peel, 1 inch in diameter twisted Muddle pineapple and agave syrup. Add remaining ingredients. Add ice, shake and double strain into coupe glass over ice. Twist the lemon peel over the drink and rub on the rim of glass.

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Launch of iconic Grand Marnier liqueur

This fall the House of Marnier Lapostolle – producers of the iconic Grand Marnier liqueur – will launch two new products nationwide: the second limited edition release blend in their Signature Collection Series, Grand Marnier Raspberry Peach, and a tribute to the creation of Grand Marnier liqueur in 1880, Grand Marnier Cuvée 1880.

Grand Marnier Cuvée 1880 (SRP: $350.00 / 750ml) Debuting nationwide in the fall of 2013, Grand Mariner Cuvée 1880 commemorates and pays homage to the year that the world renowned brand, Grand Marnier was created by founder Louis Alexandre Marnier Lapostolle. Grand Marnier Cuvée 1880 is a distinctive blend of aged, premium Grande Champagne XO Cognac and wild tropical orange parfum. Exceptionally sophisticated in both product and packaging, the decorative design on the Cuvée 1880 bottle is hand painted with elegant silver and gold accents.

Grand Marnier Raspberry Peach (SRP: $39.99 / 750ml) – limited edition!

Starting September 2013 and extending through the holiday season, Grand Marnier Signature Collection N° 2 - Raspberry Peach – will be available for purchase in the U.S. market. Rich, complex and fruity, Grand Mariner Raspberry Peach delivers a perfect marriage of Grand Mariner’s signature fine cognacs laced with orange essence and the natural raspberry and peach flavors. The versatility of this product makes it perfect for holiday sipping: simply add a splash to your favorite bubbly, drink over ice or whip up a signature cocktail such as the GM Raspberry Peach Cosmo: GM Raspberry Peach Cosmo Created by mixologist George Carney 2 oz Grand Marnier Raspberry Peach 1 oz cranberry juice 1/2 oz fresh lime juice Combine all ingredients in a shaker and shake. Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a twist.

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Meals

the Hawaiian Way

The longer, sunny days of summer offer the perfect opportunity to get together with friends and family for flavorful meals from the grill. To host a get-together the Hawaiian way – where all of your friends, family and neighbors feel special – focus on a few well-chosen elements to make even the most spontaneous gathering seem like a carefully orchestrated event.

Start with the buns The most experienced grill chefs know selecting the right bun is just as important as what goes inside. King’s Hawaiian, the family-owned company known for its original Hawaiian sweet bread products, offers a lineup of Hamburger Buns, Sandwich Buns and Rolls to please burgerloyalists and slider-connoisseurs alike.

Serve-up scrumptious fillings Once you have a great bun, there are endless ways to fill them. Try a light, fluffy and sweet bread to complement savory grilled burgers. Soft and sweet dinner rolls make the perfect pick for sliders. These small buns are great for grilled mini burgers or for something more exotic, such as this recipe for Hawaiian-style Aloha Chicken Sliders. For an added touch, quickly toast the hamburger buns and rolls on the grill for just a few seconds to create an irresistible combination of crispiness and sweetness. For other great summertime recipes, visit www.KingsHawaiian. com/recipes.

Provide delicious drinks and appetizers While you’re tending to the grill, keep your hungry guests happy with appetizers and beverages.

Serve a classic spinach dip in a hollowed out sweet round bread. Treat them to tropical beverages like the ever-popular Mai Tai or the specialty of the islands, POG, made from passion fruit, orange, and guava juices.

Aloha Chicken Sliders

Family Features

1 can crushed pineapple 1/4 cup soy sauce 1 clove garlic, minced 1 inch piece ginger, peeled and minced 1 teaspoon sesame oil 3 chicken breasts 2 tablespoon crushed pineapple 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar 3 slices provolone cheese, cut into 4 pieces 12 tomato slices Lettuce

King’s Hawaiian Original Hawaiian Sweet Dinner Rolls Open pineapple can and reserve two tablespoons for mayo.

Place pineapple, soy sauce, garlic, ginger and sesame oil in zip-top bag and mix well.

For sliders, slice each breast into four pieces and place into bag. Remove air from bag, seal and place in fridge for 6-8 hours. In small bowl, stir together two tablespoons pineapple, mayonnaise and vinegar.

Heat grill to high. Grill sliders for four minutes on each side. Top with cheese.

Cut rolls in half. Spread bottom of roll with pineapple mayonnaise; add tomato slice, lettuce, chicken and the top of roll.

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Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Yield: 12 servings, 1 slider per serving

Twist on the Daiquiri: Spiced Anejo Daiquiri

Ingredients: 75 oz Disaronno 1 oz Bacardi Oakheart .75 oz lime juice .5 oz simple syrup 3 ginger dials Garnish: Lime wheel Method: Muddle ginger. Add all ingredients into mixing glass. Shake for 10 seconds. Strain into cocktail glass.

Garnish with lime wheel.

Twist on the Sour: Amarena Fix

Ingredients: 1 oz Disaronno 1 oz Dewar 12 .5 lemon juice 1 egg white 3 Amarena cherries muddled with 1/4 oz syrup.

Garnish: Garnish: Amarena cherry Method: Muddle Cherries with syrup. Add all ingredients into Mixing glass. Shake for 10 seconds. Strain into cocktail glass. Garnish with cherries.

Twist on the Godfather: Godfather Revised aka The MICHAEL CORLEONE Ingredients: 1 oz Disaronno 1 oz Dewers 12 2 dash cherry bitters 2 dash walnut bitters Garnish: Lemon/cherry Method: Add all ingredients into mixing glass. Shake for 10 seconds. Strain into rocks with ice. Garnish with lemon and cherry.

Mixing it

Up! A classic never goes out of style. Perfecting one of 2013’s biggest cocktail trends, the twist on a classic, DISARONNO brings a little experimentation to old favorites.

Giving favorite beverage staples a fresh makeover, DISARONNO brand ambassador and acclaimed mixologist Paul Sevigny is unveiling a batch of exclusive cocktails that highlight key undertones of sweet, sour, and refreshing flavors. Using the Italian amber liquor as the core ingredient, vintage blends such as the Daiquiri, the Sidecar, the Godfather, and the Sour prove revamped to suit drinkers both young and old.

Completing a polished and perfectly executed DIY party menu, below are just a few recipes guaranteed to keep guests coming back for seconds. Not to mention the garnishes of orange peels, blueberries, and mint bouquets add a decorative element to glasses and table tops.

Twist on the Sidecar: Caribbean Sidecar Ingredients: 75 oz Disaronno 1.5 oz Bacardi Oakheart .75 oz lemon juice Garnish: Sugar rim and orange peel Method: Add all ingredients into mixing glass.

Shake for 10 seconds. Strain into cocktail glass.

Garnish with orange peel and sugar rim.

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Back to School Snacking The start of a school year – with new classes, new teachers and new friends – can be an exhilarating time for kids.

With all the things you need to get before their new educational adventure begins, it’s easy to overlook the lunchtime options you serve your kids. Make the most of this exciting time and break out of the old back to school routine with a few simple snacking tips. Serving up these healthy snacking solutions will bring color and enjoyment to an otherwise drab lunch.

Here are a few ways to pack some fun back into lunch: Pack a Bento Box – These convenient, easy-to-carry food containers are perfect for lunchtime. The compartments make packing different foods simple, while keeping flavors and textures separate. Pack in hummus along with some dippers, such as pretzels, sliced fruit and veggies for healthy eating on-the-go.

Choose Hummus – Cream-based dips and dressings are loaded with sodium, fat and preservatives. Instead, choose hummus, such as Sabra Hummus - the healthy alternative that kids crave. They’ll have a dipping party when you pack it with carrots, broccoli, celery and pita bread.

After-School Noshes – Keep the fun, flavorful food options on hand for after-class, as well. When they’re busy doing homework or cramming for the exam, your kids will love the Mediterranean twist on these classic kid-friendly recipes, like this recipe for Grilled Vegetable Pita Pizza.

Try New Condiments – When it comes to dressing up sandwiches and wraps, go beyond the ordinary mustard and mayo routine. Your kids will love exploring new flavor combinations, especially when you choose their favorites. Spread delicious Sabra Hummus on whole grain bread and fill with their favorite sandwich fixings for a tasty variation on a lunchtime classic.

For more recipes and information on Sabra Hummus, visit www.sabra.com.

Family Features

Grilled Vegetable Pita Pizza Yield: 3 pizzas, 24 small slices 1 1/2 1/4 2 1 2 3 1

cups summer squash (about 2 medium size) yellow and/or green cup olive oil teaspoons salt red onion vine ripe tomatoes (6-inch) round pitas cup Sabra Classic Hummus Black pepper and salt to taste

Slice summer squash in 1/4-inch rounds. Place in bowl and add 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Peel and cut red onion in half. Then slice with grain in 1/3-inch wedges. Repeat with second half. Place in bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and combine.

Cut tomatoes in half and slice 4-6 half-moon wedges. Repeat with second half. Place in bowl with 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon salt and combine.

Grill summer squash about 4 minutes on each side. Grill onions about 5 minutes, rotating once. Grill tomatoes about 5 minutes rotating once.

Warm pita on the grill about 3 minutes each side. Once warm, remove pita from heat and slather with about 1/3 cup hummus.

Top with summer squash, tomatoes and onions. Cut into 8 pieces and enjoy.

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MOBILE Go to FOCUSOFSWFL.com on your mobile device.

Regional information at your fingertips!

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.

www.lemacaron-us.com 382 St Armands Circle Sarasota, FL

Audrey's Jamaican Cuisine

4463-D Ashton Rd Sarasota, FL 34233 941-928-3309 www.audreysrumcakes.com

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where yo u live a nd w o rk ; i t is w h o yo u a re.

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Availabili ty va ries by phone/network.

A simple way to indulge yourself!

Great Ways to Fuel Up After School

Family Features

Crunch time for most families is the frenzied, action-packed hours between the school’s dismissal bell and dinnertime. Squeezed in between is often a flurry of homework, sports practices, dance classes, music lessons and hanging out with friends.

The last thing most parents have time for is preparing snacks. Instead of unwrapping a candy bar or driving through a fast food joint, pull out a healthy treat or put together a delicious dish in a matter of moments. For more great snacking ideas, visit www.culinary.net.

Farm Rich When crunched for time after school, between games or before practice, we understand that a quick and easy-to-prepare snack is a must, but you also want to feed your family wholesome, real snacks.

New Crispy Dill Pickles and Toasted Ravioli are great-tasting snacks made with real ingredients and ready to eat in minutes. Farm Rich — they’re real snacks for real families. For coupons and more information, visit: www.farmrich.com.

Mini Babybel When planning for back-to-school, be sure to add Mini Babybel to the grocery list.

Individually portioned, Mini Babybel is a little cheese with huge appeal. Rich, creamy and 100 percent natural cheese, it is the perfect choice for snack time. With 20 percent of your daily calcium needs, this nutritious cheese snack is sure to satisfy the whole family. Visit www.mini-babybel.com for more information and snack ideas.

Popcorn For back-to-school snacking you can’t beat popcorn. Pop up a bowl and let the fun flavor creations begin — sweet, savory, or with just a dash of salt. Popcorn is a grab-n-go treat that takes minutes to make. Plus, it’s a whole grain that contains fiber to fuel the body and keep you feeling fuller longer than other snacks. This beloved treat is also economical, costing mere pennies per serving. Pop up some fun today.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

Go Bananas Frozen bananas are a quick, healthy treat.

Cut a banana into four pieces, spear with a toothpick and freeze for two hours. Then melt chocolate chips in the microwave, dip each frozen banana pop into the chocolate until coated, shake off excess and place on waxed paper. Have the kids help out by embellishing each pop with chopped nuts, crushed graham crackers or colorful sprinkles. Once hardened, return the pops to the freezer until ready to enjoy.

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Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Technology

Take a Break from

As access to technology increases, families may find they are spending more time on their devices and less time together.

Some psychologists worry our growing attachment to technology may result in social isolation.

“We’re getting used to a new way of being alone together,” said Sherry Turkle, Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor, psychologist and author of “Alone Together: Why We Expect More from Technology and Less from Each Other.” “People want to be with each other, but also elsewhere, connected to all the different places they want to be.”

In her book, “Alone Together: Why We Expect More from Technology and Less from Each Other,” Turkle explores the idea that this constant need for virtual connection is leading to a gap in communication between families, and a new generation of children is unable to actually communicate and relate to their peers or parents.

Ready for a Tech Timeout?

Foresters™, a life insurance provider committed to the well-being of families, recently launched the Tech Timeout™ challenge in response to a growing awareness that our attachment to digital devices may contribute to a sense of social isolation among families. Tech Timeout encourages families across North America to take a pledge to turn off their digital devices (including TVs, smartphones, video games and computers) for an hour each day for one week and connect with each other in a more meaningful way. The idea is not to eliminate technology, but to create awareness of the dependence on technology, and ultimately improve personal bonds within families.

Family Features

Easy Ways to Unplug Carving out space and time for each other can start the channels of communication flowing. Here are some activities families can do together: • Board Game Bonanza – Break out the cards, puzzles and board games for a night of old-fashioned fun.

• Get Out and Play – Find a local trail and set out on a hike together. You will have a chance to interact with your surroundings and one another and be active too.

• Volunteer – Volunteering can help strengthen community connections and avoid a sense of social isolation. Find a cause your family is passionate about and volunteer with a local organization.

• Cook Together – Dig out your favorite recipes and try cooking as a family. Assign each person a role in meal preparation. You will not only have plenty of time to interact, your children can pick up some valuable life skills along the way.

• Take a Tech-free Holiday – Family vacations are a great time to recharge and bond with your kids, but connecting can be tough if you are each plugged into your electronic devices. Fun time together will create memories your children will cherish for years to come.

• Rediscover Reading – Begin a family reading hour or book club.

Starting a discussion about literature will open up communication.

To take the Tech Timeout pledge, and for more tips on building stronger bonds within your family, visit www.TechTimeout.com and www.facebook.com/TechTimeout.

Foresters™ is the trade name and a trademark of The Independent Order of Foresters, 789 Don Mills Road, Toronto, Canada M3C 1T9; its subsidiaries are licensed to use this mark.

Tech Timeout and the Tech Timeout logo are trademarks of The Independent Order of Foresters.

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Imagine this: You and your spouse are at home one evening when the doorbell rings unexpectedly. You open your front door to find several law enforcement officers standing on your porch. They have come to arrest your spouse—who has been accused of a crime he or she didn’t commit—and to search your home. You may not realize it now, but your spouse’s life, as well as your own, is about to change dramatically. That’s because you’re both about to enter a frightening criminal justice system that in practice, if not in theory, considers the accused to be guilty until proven innocent.

Michelle Gesse lived this nightmare after her husband, Steven, was falsely accused of threatening a neighbor’s adult son with a gun.

“After the initial shock of the accusation wore off, I understood that Steven would be facing numerous obstacles as he tried to clear his name, and that his life would be very different and incredibly difficult over the following months,” recalls Gesse, “What I didn’t realize was the extent to which my own life would be impacted, too.”

Over the next seven months, the criminal justice system treated Steven as though his guilt were already assumed. He was in and out of court and had to meet multiple bail conditions, including obtaining special permission to leave the state, appearing for random breathalyzer tests, and meeting regularly with a drug counselor. He and Michelle were also forced to spend their retirement savings to fund his defense.

“While I wasn’t accused of a crime and was technically a ‘free’ citizen, I felt as though I, too, had been falsely accused,” Gesse shares. “As I tried to help and support Steven, I often had no idea how to handle the situations and emotions I was faced with. To make things even more difficult, I had few resources to draw on and often felt very isolated.”

Finally, Steven Gesse was found not guilty of Felony Menacing and Prohibited Use of a Weapon by a jury on October 28, 2009. Yet being exonerated did not make up for the fact that he had been treated like a convicted felon, or for the financial, emotional, and social hardship he and his wife endured. The unfairness of it all set Michelle Gesse on a mission to shine a spotlight on the injustices of the American justice system—and to make people aware of what to do in case they or a loved one are ever falsely accused.

Here, Gesse speaks directly to spouses and loved ones. She shares ten tips to help you make it through your own ordeal if someone you love is ever falsely accused of a crime: Treat the accusation like the diagnosis of a serious illness. The mindset with which you approach your loved one’s arrest and trial can make a huge difference in your ability to support him and to cope with what is often an extended ordeal. Railing against how unfair the situation is or indulging in prolonged anger isn’t healthy for anyone involved. Instead, recommends Gesse, think of the accusation as the diagnosis of a potentially lethal disease.

“Treating the accusation like a disease diagnosis is applicable in several different ways,” she explains. “Like becoming ill, being falsely accused of a crime is not your loved one’s fault, and you need to support him. The emotional toll is the same. Life as you know it will cease to exist as legal proceedings and obligations take center stage—just as doctor’s visits and treatments would. Remember, your loved one will need unconditional support, and you will be his primary caregiver. And lastly, don’t expect the situation to be resolved quickly—we’re not talking about an ‘illness’ that can be cured with one vaccine. Be prepared for the battle to last a long time.”

Maintain normalcy as much as possible. One of the hardest parts of being falsely accused of a crime—and being treated as though you were guilty by the criminal justice system—is the feeling that everything in your life is out of your control. Depending on the specifics of your loved one’s case, she may be limited in where she can go and what she can do, and she might also have to meet frequently with lawyers, counselors, and others to meet the terms of her bail. Living under these strictures can make your loved one (and you!) feel helpless and desperate, and they can greatly contribute to the overall stress you’re both feeling.

“That’s why it’s so important to maintain as much normalcy in your life as possible,” Gesse asserts. “Stop dwelling on the fact that you have to cancel your anniversary trip, and definitely avoid sitting around moping and brooding. Instead, focus on sticking to your normal daily routine whenever possible: Attend your weekly aerobics class, keep up your Thursday night date nights, run errands, and do chores. Never underestimate the power of the mundane when it comes to helping you to feel in control of your life in the midst of otherwise out-of-control circumstances.”

Decide on how you will handle your friends from the beginning. You might wish that you could keep your loved one’s accusation completely under wraps, but unless you’re very lucky, that won’t be possible. News of the arrest and charges may be published in a local newspaper, and as we all know, gossip and morbid curiosity are powerful things. It’s best to assume that the people in your life—including your friends—will learn about the accusation. And according to Gesse, it’s in your family’s best interests to decide beforehand how you want to handle these relationships.

“The nature of your friendships may change in this situation, and most likely, you’ll be forced to question who your true friends are,” she shares.

“In our situation, some people whom we had expected to support us backed away, others were shamelessly interested in the details of the case, and still others assumed that because Steven had been accused and arrested, he must be guilty.

“In retrospect, I would advise sitting down with your spouse and your lawyer as soon as possible to determine how you should handle your current friendships and relationships. Do you discuss the trial? Will you agree to keep the details secret? Gossip and hearsay can become explosive (and potentially very damaging) in a situation like this one, so you need to be on the same page from the beginning. For Steven and me, our lawyer told us what to say when asked about the charges: ‘Steven is not guilty. He did not have a gun. He did not commit any crime, but we have been advised not to discuss the details of the case right now. The situation is, however, very serious.’ I believe that sticking to this script helped both of us to avoid a lot of stressful conversations. That said, we each ‘selected’ one or two trusted friends or relatives with whom we could confide and vent to as necessary.”

All decisions need to be mutual. No matter what the details of your loved one’s case are, you can be sure of one thing: There are some tough decisions ahead. And while only one of you has been accused, it’s vital that you make those decisions together because they will impact your entire family. Do everything you can to come to a mutual agreement before moving forward. Now, more than ever, you and your loved one need to stand together and support one another.

“The odds are already stacked against you, so you don’t need to be at odds with one another,” Gesse confirms. “Most likely, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to go to trial or accept a plea bargain. Going to trial was the right decision for me and my husband, but it may not be the right decision for you. If, for instance, your family has neither the emotional nor financial resources to go through the lengthy and expensive process, there’s no shame in taking another route as long as you both agree on it. Neither should the acceptance of a plea bargain be taken as a sign of guilt. It is what it is—a chance to draw the process to a conclusion.”

Don’t allow yourself to wallow in the “what ifs.” When an incident occurs that ends up turning your entire life upside down, it’s easy to let yourself be taken captive by “what ifs.” As you watch a spouse, child, or other loved one suffer, it’s normal to think through the events that led up to the ordeal and consider what could have been done to prevent it from happening. But the truth of the matter is, agonizing over the past won’t change anything about the current situation. You are where you are, and your only productive option is to look forward.

“Dwelling on the ‘what ifs’ only serves to keep you rooted in the past, and will dredge up feelings of guilt and anger that won’t do you or your spouse any good,” Gesse shares. “It’s difficult to keep your thoughts under control, though—sometimes I still catch myself wondering what would