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Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity. Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.
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CON T EN TS
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FE AT U R E S
05.2019 90
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BEST OF THE GULFSHORE
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FIELD OF DREAMS
90
100
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A modern mother and her children spend a day at the park in style. BY MATTHEW
... and the answers.
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KRITIS, PHOTOGRAPHY BY OMAR CRUZ
ALL THE QUESTIONS ABOUT MARIJUANA HERE
BY JENNIFER REED, ILLUSTRATION BY SINELAB, PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHEN HAYFORD
ON THE COVER Photographer: Omar Cruz. Stylist: Matthew Kritis. Model: Abigail Hall, Elite Models. Hair and makeup artist: Judy Jacomino, Agency Gerard. Fashion assistant: Tarra Wood. Photo assistants: Treva Blumenfeld Izzo, Federico Velez, Alain Almiñana. Dress; Gustavo Arango, gustavoarango.com. Earrings; Cult Gaia, cultgaia.com. Shot at Naples Botanical Garden.
6 | GULFSHORE LIFE
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The author writes a letter to the devoted mother who left her too soon. BY KAREN T. BARTLETT,
Rob Wells III shows off the glories of the island his family has owned for more than 40 years. BY ARTIS HENDERSON,
Inside the mind of local composer Jason Bahr as we learn how he creates a symphony. BY CARY BARBOR,
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ZACH STOVALL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN TIETZ
TO MAMA, WITH LOVE
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CON T EN TS D E PA R T M E N T S 05.2019
RIGHT NOW 38 BEST BETS
54
Must-see events of the month. BY CAYLA CHILDS
Could MICHAEL KORB, with his mustache, Hawaiian shirt and fast red car, solve a crime at the docks here playing Magnum, P.I.?
38
brought Andy Solis to Naples and a thriving career as a lawyer and Collier County commissioner. BY
44 CHEF’S CHOICE
Baked cheese and eggs with fennel marmalata from Ryan Fredstrom of Angelina’s Ristorante. BY
50
DOROTHEA HUNTER SÖNNE
46 GOING PLACES
There were so many good fruit wines to sample at the Schnebly Winery in Redland and a rollicking time with the karaoke. BY ARTIS HENDERSON
48 JUST BEHAVE SUZANNE WILLIS advises on how to avoid allowing money to rule your deci-
KRISTINE GILL
56 BEAUTIFUL YOU
sion-making in a couple, prevent offending guests with your décor and respond to your friend’s incessant boasting.
Got skin in the game? Protect it with these sun care products. BY CARLA DELGADO GRIPPA
58 SHOPPORTUNITIES 50 ARTS WORLD
Happenings across Southwest Florida in the visual and performing arts. BY MELANIE PEFINIS
How to dress brightly but professionally for work and go about measuring your heel heights. BY CHERYL LAMPARD
AND JANICE T. PAINE
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54 THE LOOK
Stay smart and chic as you gear up for the outdoors. BY CARLA
66 MS. ADVENTURE
Kayaking on the Orange River amid masses of giant manatees proved fun, though STEPHANIE DAVIS was ever fearful of the random alligator. 70 SPEAKING OUT
President and CEO Mike Ellis discusses how Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida attempts to meet the needs of an underserved population. BY JUSTIN PAPROCKI
How a Florida Supreme Court justice’s suggestion
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CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT: TOM RUSSO; ERIK KELLAR; A JOURNEY DOWN MEMORY LANE BY ARTURO CORREA
40 GULFSHORE EXPLORER
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CON T EN TS D E PA R T M E N T S 0 5. 2 019
72 SCENE STEALERS STEPHANIE DAVIS delivers
the latest news, notes and gossip from around Southwest Florida.
74 PARTY TIME
72
Parties and people stepping out on the scene. For Party Time Extra, turn to p. 258.
HOME + DESIGN
IN EVERY ISSUE
186 STYLISH LIVING
26 FROM THE EDITOR
MICHAEL KORB
194 FAVORITE THINGS
A mix of trends and oneof-a-kind designs that can make stylish statements in your home. BY MELANIE
MELANIE PAGAN
APPETITE 240 DINING REVIEW
Here’s something the grandkids will surely love. BY MICHAEL KORB
212 REALTY CHECK
What you get for $5.1 million, $3 million
few more things to love along the Gulfshore.
and $1.6 million. Plus, we show a renovation in Port Royal, and James W. Bates answers your real estate questions. BY
PAGAN
198 UP CLOSE
DAVID SENDLER shares a
194
With its delightful food and drinks, Hampton Social has become quite the new gathering place at Mercato in Naples. BY ARTIS HENDERSON
30 GULFSHORE TREASURES
Exploring the beauty of our region through photography. 240
Southwest Florida dining scene.
233 FEEL GOOD
The latest in health, beauty and fitness. BY JUSTIN PAPROCKI
254 MAY CALENDAR 244 DINING GUIDE
A listing of 150 recommended restaurants in Lee and Collier counties. BY DOROTHEA HUNTER SÖNNE
The month in arts, music, theater, festivals and more. BY CAYLA CHILDS 260 PARTING SHOT DEB WARD thinks pink.
242 HOT DISH DOROTHEA HUNTER SÖNNE’s latest finds in the
Volume 49/Number 5, May 2019, Gulfshore Life (ISSN 0745-0079) is published monthly, 12 times a year, by Gulfshore Life LLC, 1421 Pine Ridge Road, Suite 100, Naples, FL 34109. Subscription price is $19.95 per year. For customer service inquiries, subscription inquiries or to change your address by providing both the old and new addresses, contact: Subscription Department, Gulfshore Life, PO Box 16147, North Hollywood, CA 91615-6147. Telephone (818) 286-3160 or email subscriptions@gulfshorelife.com. Periodicals postage paid at Naples, Fla., and at additional mailing offices. Copyright 2018 by Gulfshore Life LLC, Library of Congress Card No. 8538973. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Unsolicited manuscripts without return postage will not be returned. DISCLAIMER: Advertisements in the publication do not constitute an offer for sale in states where prohibited or restricted by law.
P O S T M A S T E R : Please send address changes to Gulfshore Life, P.O. Box 16147, North Hollywood, CA 91615-6147.
14 | GULFSHORE LIFE
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BRIAN TIETZ (BOTTOM); COURTESY OF FOX MEDIA LLC (RIGHT)
In styling a brand-new condo in Naples’ Kalea Bay, the owners love its resort-like feel, where they can look out and see their boat at the dock. BY
Fort www
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WITH THE FINANCING OF MY AIRCRAFT, FINEMARK HAS GIVEN ME THE TOOLS TO REACH DISTANT MARKETS. FINEMARK MAKES BANKING SEAMLESS AND THE SERVICE IS
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CON T R I BU TOR S 0 5. 2 019
KAREN T. BARTLETT Bartlett’s byline has appeared in Gulfshore Life frequently over the years, as both a columnist and feature writer. An award-winning travel journalist and editorial photographer, she’s also a PR maven, a location scout, the author of 11 coffee table books and the publisher of the Mostly Kids’ series of family travel guides. Read her touching Mother’s Day tribute to the impactful women of her life in this issue.
Read her on p. 106.
DOROTHEA HUNTER SÖNNE Our respected food and wine editor notably spent six years with O, The Oprah Magazine, including in the food department, before heading to Florida. You’ll find her fingerprints on all our dining departments, as well as the twice-weekly Hot Dish blog and twice-monthly Hot Dish e-newsletter. She also writes features, such as the first six pages of this month’s Best of the Gulfshore coverage.
OMAR CRUZ Revered for his celebrity portrait photography, Cruz has worked with individuals ranging from President Obama to Cristina Aguilera. His images have spanned numerous high-profile publications, including Time, Esquire, Vogue and Vanity Fair. Cruz took his talents to Naples Botanical Garden for our May fashion feature, Field of Dreams, a visual story of a modern mother and her children.
Read her on p. 44, 78,
See him on p. 90.
STEPHANIE DAVIS An almost-native steeped in the Southwest Florida community, Davis is a freelance reporter and columnist for several local publications. Her chops include much time in radio and theater, as well, and she lends her personality to our regular Ms. Adventure and Scene Stealers columns.
Read her on p. 66 and 72.
ZACH STOVALL Stovall is a photographer, videographer and writer specializing in travel who has worked with major outlets such as Coastal Living, Condé Nast Traveller UK and Martha Stewart Weddings. In his first collaboration with Gulfshore Life, he took his time getting to know Cabbage Key and its surrounding waters for this issue’s feature on the island.
SUZANNE WILLIS Willis is a hospitality consultant and the founder/CEO (Chief Etiquette Officer) of Mimi’s Manners, specializing in dining etiquette for children, teens and adults. You’ll find her smart and bright advice column, Just Behave, in almost every issue of Gulfshore Life.
Read her on p. 48.
MATTHEW KRITIS A longtime contributor to Gulshore Life, Kritis is skilled as both a designer and stylist, specializing in fashion and photo direction. He is also an artist with a focus on sustainable textile and fashion design. For this issue, he directed the Field of Dreams fashion feature to a beautiful result.
See him on p. 90.
See him on p. 110.
16 | GULFSHORE LIFE
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TOP, FROM LEFT: CRAIG HILDEBRAND; ERIK KELLAR; OMAR CRUZ BOTTOM: ZACH STOVALL (SECOND); CRAIG HILDEBRAND (FOURTH)
242 and 244.
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R
DON’T WAIT UNTIL SURGERY IS THE ONLY OPTION FOR RELIEVING YOUR JOINT PAIN.
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Aldo Beretta, M.D. Orthopedic Surgeon Spine, Hip & Knee Specialist
Robert O’Leary, D.O. Pain Management Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist
Christina Kabbash, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H. Orthopedic Surgeon Foot & Ankle Trauma Specialist
Scott Greenberg, D.O. Orthopedic Surgeon Upper Extremity Trauma Shoulder, Elbow & Hand Specialist
Members of the Medical Staff of Physicians Regional Healthcare System
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Editor-In-Chief
David Sendler Creative Director Jerry Pomales EDITORIAL Managing Editor Cayla Childs Senior Writer Jennifer Reed Food and Wine Editor Dorothea Hunter Sönne Contributing Writers Stephanie Davis, Artis Henderson, Michael Korb, Janine Zeitlin DIG ITAL Digital Media Manager Justin Paprocki CUSTOM PUBLISHING Managing Editor of Custom Publications Michael Oricchio Staff Writer of Custom Publications Tess Raines ART Art Director Brianne Hayden Associate Art Director Felipe Echeverria Photo Editor Kristen McClarty Hill Contributing Art Director Dave Weaver ADVERTISING Associate Publisher Kim Evans National Account Manager Elizabeth Goodman Sales Director/Lee County Wendy Tooley Senior Account Representative Mindy Roosa Account Representative Deborah Drotar MARKETING Marketing and Events Manager Rachel Galante Digital and Marketing Intern Claudia Witczak CIRCULATION Director of Audience Development Kerri Nolan PRODUC TION Production Manager Martha Leavitt Production Services Manager Judy Ricci ADMINISTR ATION Controller Marcia Jaquith Advertising Services Manager/Reprint Sales Kathleen Hill
Gulfshore Life adheres to American Society of Magazine Editors guidelines, which require a clear distinction between editorial content and paid advertising or marketing messages. ©Gulfshore Life Media LLC. All rights reserved. 1421 Pine Ridge Road, Suite 100, Naples, FL 34109 Gulfshore Life and Gulfshore Life Media LLC retain exclusive rights to all editorial and photographic materials used, which cannot be reproduced in any manner without written consent.
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COMMUNITY ADVISORY BOARD
Denise Cobb
CHAIR, COMMUNITY ADVISORY BOARD TRUSTEE, NAPLES CHILDREN & EDUCATION FOUNDATION 2000 WOMAN OF THE YEAR
Lydia Black
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ALLIANCE FOR THE ARTS 2016 WOMAN OF THE YEAR
Scott Burgess
PRESIDENT AND CEO, DAVID LAWRENCE CENTER 2018 MAN OF THE YEAR
Mary Susan Clinton
TRUSTEE, NAPLES CHILDREN & EDUCATION FOUNDATION FOUNDER, GALLIEN GLOBAL VISION INC. 2002 WOMAN OF THE YEAR
Todd E. Gates
CHAIRMAN, GATES 2003 MAN OF THE YEAR
Gail Markham
FOUNDING PARTNER, MARKHAM NORTON MOSTELLER WRIGHT & COMPANY 2011 WOMAN OF THE YEAR
Subtle Clothing With Simple Sophistication
Jacke McCurdy
VICE PRESIDENT, JOSEPH E. SEAGRAM & SON INC. (RET.) 2006 WOMAN OF THE YEAR
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Sarah Owen
CEO, SOUTHWEST FLORIDA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 2012 WOMAN OF THE YEAR
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Elliott H. Singer
MANAGING DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER, FAIRVIEW ADVISORS TRUSTEE, NAPLES CHILDREN & EDUCATION FOUNDATION MEMBER-AT-LARGE
Adria Starkey
PRESIDENT, COLLIER, FINEMARK NATIONAL BANK & TRUST, TRUSTEE, NAPLES CHILDREN & EDUCATION FOUNDATION 2000 WOMAN OF THE YEAR
Shelly Stayer
PRESIDENT/CO-OWNER, JOHNSONVILLE FOODS INC. 2013 WOMAN OF THE YEAR
Sandra Stilwell Youngquist
OWNER AND CEO, STILWELL ENTERPRISES 2006 WOMAN OF THE YEAR
20 | GULFSHORE LIFE
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Honorary Member: Frank Haskell
Honorary Member: Garrett Richter
FOUNDER, BARBARA’S FRIENDS 2004 MAN OF THE YEAR
INTEGRITY BANK 1999 MAN OF THE YEAR
20 | GULFSHORE LIFE
PRESIDENT AND CEO, FIRST FLORIDA
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ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS MAKE REFERENCE TO THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN AND THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. Community features, amenities and pricing are approximate and subject to change without notice. The information and materials displayed on materials provided to you are solely intended to provide general information about proposed plans of WSR-Bonita Bay, LLC. These proposed plans are conceptual in nature and are subject to change or cancellation (in whole or in part) at any time without notice. Land uses, public and private facilities, improvements, and plans described or depicted on any materials are conceptual only, subject to government approvals and market factors, and subject to change without notice. Nothing in these materials obligates WSR-Bonita Bay, LLC, or any other entity to build any facilities or improvements, and there is no guarantee that any illustrated or described proposed future development will be implemented. Neither the information and materials provided to you, nor any communication made or given in connection with and of the foregoing may be deemed to constitute any representation or warranty or may otherwise be relied upon by any person or entity for any reason whatsoever. Equal Housing Opportunity.
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FOUR WINDS GALLERY
Exceptional Native American Jewelry & Art R E A DE R SE RV IC E S OFFICE ADDRESS:
1421 Pine Ridge Road, Suite 100 Naples, FL 34109 Phone: (239) 449-4111 Website: gulfshorelife.com Email: info@gulfshorelife.com SUBSCRIPTIONS:
Your subscription includes 12 issues of Gulfshore Life a year plus the Southwest Florida Guide to the Arts in November. If you have a question about your subscription, call us at (818) 286-3110; write to Subscription Services, Gulfshore Life, PO Box 16147, North Hollywood, CA 91615-6147; email subscriptions@gulfshorelife.com; or visit gulfshorelife.com.
Buying
GIFT SUBSCRIPTIONS:
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340 13th Ave. S. Mon-Sat 10-5
239.263.7555 Closed Sun
Use the postage-paid bind-in card in every issue, call (818) 286-3110 or order online at gulfshorelife.com. We will send a gift announcement card to the recipient. 2 - F O R -1 A R T S CO U P O N S :
As part of November’s Southwest Florida Guide to the Arts, subscribers receive dozens of 2-for-1 coupons to cultural events and performances at venues throughout Charlotte, Collier, Lee, Manatee and Sarasota counties. CHANGE OF ADDRESS:
Send the old and new addresses and a mailing label, if possible, to Gulfshore Life, PO Box 16147, North Hollywood, CA 91615-6147. You may also visit gulfshorelife.com or call (818) 286-3110.
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© Copyright Gulfshore Life is published by Gulfshore Life LLC. The entire document of Gulfshore Life is © 2019 by Gulfshore Life LLC. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems without the express written permission of the publisher. Along the Gulfshore, Best of the Gulfshore, Design Yearbook, Discover Southwest Florida, Gulfshore Dining, Gulfshore Galleries, Gulfshore Shopping, Men and Women of the Year and The White Party are copyrighted service marks and are the property of Gulfshore Life, all rights reserved. Editorial content does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher of this magazine. Editorial or advertising does not constitute advice but it is considered informative. Gulfshore Life is locally operated. Occasionally we make our subscriber list available to carefully screened companies that offer products and services that we believe would interest our readers. If you do not want to receive these offers, please advise us at Gulfshore Life, PO Box 16147, North Hollywood, CA 91615-6147. Please include your name and address as it appears on the mailing label of your most recent issue.
22 | GULFSHORE LIFE
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WHERE
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Florida Locations: Bonita Springs/Estero, Cape Coral, Captiva Island, Fort Myers, Naples/Marco Island, Ocala and Sanibel Island North Carolina Locations: Cashiers, Highlands and Sapphire Valley/Lake Toxaway
RSRE 32419 May 2019 GSL_Spread.indd 1 GL_MAY19_001-025_TOC.indd 24
SOUTHERN VIEWS ONTO THE GULF • Gulf Entrance Minutes Away • Reversed Floor Plan $2,850,000 MLS 218041216 Kevin O’Leary 603.616.6010
3 BR • Bea $569 Dodo 4/8/19 2:55 PM
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4 BEDROOMS, 4.5 BATHS, 3 CAR GARAGE • Pool/Spa, Waterfall, Summer Kitchen $1,990,000 MLS 547502 Linda Doyle 352.361.0424
CAPTIVA ISLAND
2 BR, 2 BA ON REDFISH PASS & GULF • Stunning Waterfront Views $1,429,000 MLS 219013772 Vicki Panico & Fred Newman 239.980.0088
BONITA SPRINGS
SLEEK CONTEMPORARY 3 BR, 4 FULL BA • S. Exposure Overlooking Water Garden $899,000 MLS 218064422 Cathy Lieberman & Cindy Reiff 239.777.2441
CAPE CORAL
DESIRABLE 8 LAKES AREA • 3 BR, 2 BA, Pool, Gulf Access $675,000 MLS 219020125 Jim Peterson 239.470.2353
NAPLES
3 BR, 2 BA + DEN, POOL, RENOVATED • Beautiful Lake View from Screened Lanai $569,900 MLS 218085321 Dodona & Ornela, The Roboci Team 239.776.8123 GL_MAY19_001-025_TOC.indd 25
LABELLE
4 BR, 4 BA, 4,815 S.F., 239’ RIVER FRONTAGE • Main & Carriage Houses, 45 Mins. to Gulf $1,500,000 MLS 219001208 McMurray & Nette 239.850.7888
FORT MYERS
4,500 S.F., 1 ACRE, 5 BR, 5.5 BA, 4 CAR GA • Lake View, Outdoor Kitchen, Cabana $1,185,000 MLS 218083784 Stacey Glenn, Team Stacey 239.823.1343
ESTERO
COUNTRY LIVING JUST OUTSIDE THE CITY • Over 10 Acres $779,000 MLS 219004100 Bradford Bateman, GulfHomePros 239.273.8842
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3 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHS + DEN, POOL • Lake & Golf Course Views $659,000 MLS 218070289 Gary Ryan 239.273.6796
NAPLES
GORGEOUS LAKE VIEW HOME • 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, 2,289 S.F. $549,900 MLS 219016034 Sylvie Hall, Westerfield Group 239.300.3828
BONITA SPRINGS
4 BR, 3.5 BA + DEN, 3 CAR GA, 4,000+/- S.F. • Southern Exposure, Pool/Spa, Outdoor Kitchen $1,495,000 MLS 219018847 Connie Lummis, The Lummis Team 239.289.3543
CAPE CORAL
CUSTOM HOME WITH 68’ DOCK • Deep Water, Direct Access $997,000 MLS 218076408 Patti Testa & Troy De Mond 239.770.5445
SANIBEL ISLAND
UPDATED 3 BR, 2 BA, NEAR BEACH • Spectacular Pool, Lake Views $779,000 MLS 219002114 Sharon Kottraba, Lomano-Nicholson Team 804.240.3115
FORT MYERS
CUSTOM POOL & LANAI, 3 CAR GARAGE • 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths + Office $574,999 MLS 219019711 Anabelle Miller 239.565.0146
BONITA SPRINGS
4 BEDROOMS, 3 BATHS, 3 CAR GARAGE • Serene Lake Views, Extended Lanai $449,900 MLS 219019963 Bob Fagan, The Fagan Team 239.272.3006 3/25/19 11:38 AM 4/8/19 2:55 PM
F ROM THE E DI TOR 0 5. 2 019
THE BESTS JUST KEEP ON COMING We cannot suppress our joy over the best things we discover about Southwest Florida—nor can we fit them all into the prescribed space in this issue (see p. 78). Thus, we editors offer this bonus, singling out here both the marvelous contributions from our youngsters and the impressive creations and additions to our arts and cultural gathering spots. Our region’s minors stepped up as a major force over the last year. Some of the most impressive moves? Estero’s Taylor Bouchard, 17, launched nonprofit Ducklings Travel with her mom to help families afford the cost of travel for their children’s medical care. She hatched the idea after her own medical condition took her far from home to a surgeon in Colorado 15 times in seven years. Six-year-old Gianna Winton, of Fort Myers, and 5-year-old Solei Bourgeois, of Naples, were cast to share the role of Lulu in Broadway musical Waitress for its eight local showings this February on its tour of the U.S. Golden Gate High School student Aubrey Garcia, 17, sold blocks of advertising on her prom dress as a way to fundraise after Hurricane Irma. She ended up with more than $1,500 from eight companies, which she donated to the Guadalupe Center in hard-hit Immokalee. At age 10, Naples’ Landen Grey earned the title of “toad trapper” as he and his father roamed neighborhood streets at night to help capture the invasive and OUR REGION’S MINORS poisonous cane toad, which poses a particular threat to cats and dogs. STEPPED UP AS A MAJOR The winner of Jeopardy’s annual Teen Tournament, which FORCE OVER THE LAST YEAR. aired in November, was none other than Bishop Verot Catholic High School senior Claire Sattler—meaning the 17-yearold walked away with a $100,00 grand prize. She said she planned to put most of the money toward her college education (she hopes to become a biomedical engineer) and a couple of charities. Not only did 15-year-old Oklahoma native Isabella Stapp convince her parents to move to Naples so she could pursue her marine biology passion, but the Seacrest Country Day School student also subsequently was asked to join Shark Tank star Barbara Corcoran on a shark-tagging mission with the University of Miami, as part of a program that ran during the Discovery Channel’s popular Shark Week. The invite came after Isabella impressed the university’s scientists on a school field trip. Fort Myers is on its way to getting a much-needed sidewalk, thanks to the request of 8-year-old Girl Scout Penelope Bianchi. She appealed (successfully) to Fort Myers City Council after seeing multiple pedestrians walking unsafely along Hanson Street. An incredible bright spot for Max Hatch along a difficult physical and emotional journey that has included foster care, a heartwarming adoption, 20 extended hospitalizations and 31 diagnoses: The 19-year-old Naples High student was honored last May at a career training and transition banquet for students with disabilities, having been hired as a greeter at Publix and secured a volunteer position at Paragon Pavilion on a work path trajectory that keeps moving upward.
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We hardly consider construction noise to be harmonious, but these enhancements to our arts and cultural institutions are, well, music to our ears. The Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples is about to unveil its new “Inventioneer’s Lab,” encouraging visitors to build, experiment, solve problems and—most of all—develop all those creative, collaborative, communicative skills that cellphones are threatening to crush. (Whoops, did we just editorialize?) Starting this summer, “makers” can earn badges for developing new skills in: woodshop, coding and electronics, textiles, and engineering and design. Hurricane Irma did a number on The Baker Museum at Artis—Naples, but the there’s a post-storm rainbow at last on its way. The museum is getting a new façade— and also getting re-clad in a new stone and metal design because the organization does not want to live through another Irma-like experience. The museum’s redesign includes a new second-floor event space and a thirdfloor gallery overlooking the campus. The campus is undergoing a transformation, too, with an expanded Norris Garden and a 17,650-square-foot addition to create three new flexible spaces that will accommodate a variety of art forms. We nominate the Naples Design District for best “reboot.” This modest downtown neighborhood has long been a go-to stop for boutiques and locally owned eateries, but the district’s board intends to command frontand-center attention with new landscape design, signage, improved lighting, public art and more parking. We may be nowhere near “curtain time” for Gulfshore Playhouse’s $45 million theater and education complex, but founding Artistic Director Kristen Coury and her crew are working on the project with the intensity of an opening-night extravaganza. This year is
dedicated to the design phase, and groundbreaking at the Goodlette-Frank Road-Third Avenue South site is tentatively scheduled for fall 2020. Alliance for the Arts in Fort Myers is transforming its 2.2-acre campus with a new 8-foot-wide sidewalk running along McGregor Boulevard, lighting, landscaping and the Caloosahatchee Water Wall, a public art piece by Michael Singer that both pays homage to the nearby Caloosahatchee River and filters stormwater runoff. The New Phoenix Theater made its debut this season. The 100-seat hall, located in a small commercial strip on McGregor Boulevard, is a labor of love for a group of thespians who want the actors onstage to better reflect the community at large. Expect to see more minority performers, actors with disabilities and other demographic groups who don’t always get to appear as leading men and women. We could use someone of Thomas Alva Edison’s genius to stop the citrus greening disease that’s killing Florida’s signature crop. We’ll settle instead for the new citrus grove at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. When complete, the grove will consist of about 50 trees representing different varieties of citrus and harkening back to the inventor’s interest in agriculture. Also planned: the restoration of the Ford Caretaker’s Cottage and introduction of the Citrus Cafe. Sweet! REFRESHING
Ever wishing to bring you continuing delight each time you pick up an issue of Gulfshore Life, we offer a redesign of our pages starting with this issue. You’ll note the fine hand of new Creative Director Jerry Pomales in the creative type treatments, splendid photography and clean overall look of the magazine. Enjoy.
DAVID SENDLER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
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GU LFSHOR E TR EASU R ES 05.2019
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4/9/19 11:36 AM
GOOD EVENING While exploring the Chokoloskee area ahead of a pre-dawn roseate spoonbill excursion, Alan Maltz finds the historic Smallwood Store in harmony with the setting sun. alanmaltz.com Photo by Alan Maltz
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GU LFSHOR E TR EASU R ES 05.2019
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Photo by Carlton Ward
NATURE'S BOUNTY A Pine Island shrimp boat motors through Boca Grande Pass into the Gulf of Mexico at sunset. carltonward.com
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G E T T I N G
A H E A D
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T R AV E L
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C U LT U R E
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B E H AV I O R
R I G H T BEETHOV EN V. COLDPL AY MAY 4 AT BARBARA B. MANN PERFORMING ARTS HALL AT FSW, SWFLSO.ORG
Southwest Florida Symphony gifts us with this mashup, conducted by composer Steve Hackman of Stereo Hideout Fusion. The combination of the classical genius and particularly contemplative rock force is unexpected yet makes total sense. Our Best Bets of the month continue on the next page.
p. 38
TOM RUSSO
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R IGHT NOW B E S T
B E T S
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C AY L A
C H I L D S
MINTO US OPEN PICKLEBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS Through May 4 at East Naples Community Park, usopenpickleballchampionship.com It’s safe to say pickleball has graduated from somewhat surprising trend to sport with staying power. And Naples is at the heart of the madness. Whether you’re already a convert or have yet to see what all the fuss is about, this premier tournament (as in, the world over) is the place to enjoy it.
JUXTAPOSITION May 3-31 at Alliance for the Arts, artinlee.org You'll find a wealth of energetic and imaginative creations in this exhibit featuring Mila Bridger, known for her whimsical photography, and Mariapia Malerba, an artist of many trades (you’ll recall her handmade silk fashions from our March issue, for one, and this exhibit showcases her multimedia works). Count on the display making
N
TO
OZ
PLAYLAB FESTIVAL May 9-12 at Florida Repertory Theatre, floridarep.org For this sixth-annual event, Florida Rep selected seven plays from more than 50 submissions for workshopping, discussion and development. The readings and talkbacks, plus a playwright panel, are a wonderfully up-close look at and dissection of the creative process.
SIZZLE SWFL RESTAURANT WEEK May 30 through June 12, sizzleswfl.com For two weeks twice a year, the local culinary world becomes our oyster as more than 50 restaurants from Marco Island to Cape Coral present special—and specially priced— menus. Better still: The affair raised more than $30,000 for the Sizzle SWFL FGCU Food & Beverage Scholarship in 2018, with $1 from every meal donated, and organizers hope to raise $50,000 in 2019.
For more MAY eve nt s, s e e p. 254 .
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FROM TOP: MICHAEL GAUTHIER; COURTESY OF ALLIANCE FOR THE ARTS; VANDY MAJOR; FOOD IDEA GROUP
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R IGHT NOW E X P L O R E R
“All I would need was A MUSTACHE, A PAIR OF SURPRISINGLY SHORT KHAKI SHORTS AND SOMEONE NEEDING MY HELP.”
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STAYCATION IDEA? WHY NOT PLAY MAGNUM, P.I.? Could our writer, with his mustache, Hawaiian shirt and fast red car, solve a crime at the docks here? Stay tuned. By Michael Korb
Mustaches are a lot of responsibility. Let one get out of hand and you’re Gene Shalit. Work it too much the other way and you’re Salvador Dalí without the panache. That’s probably why you don't see them anymore. In fact, the only man to navigate the dangerous waters of mustaches successfully in the last 50 years is Tom Selleck. And the only reason I know this is because of my latest theme staycation. Wait. You don’t know what a theme staycation is? Well, what a lucky break that you stumbled upon this column. A traditional staycation is good in theory: You head to a nearby hotel to take some time to unwind—maybe you get a massage; maybe you rent a Jet Ski. But at the end of three days, you drive the 11 miles back home and think, “What was that?” Within 24 hours you feel exactly as you did before. Staycations are for people who lack imagination. Think sitting on the beach is really helping you out of your general malaise? Think ordering a cocktail from someone who thought their life would turn out differently is really going to recharge you? Nope. You need to spice it up. And so, I have
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OU T OF HIS MIN D 1. Fair warning: You may grow a mustache while listening. 2. You get points for just trying in theme staycation.
created the “theme staycation.” It comes with all the perks of a regular staycation—but with the twist of enjoying yourself as a totally different person. Check in somewhere and pretend you’re a doctor from Boston. Or a ballet dancer from Russia. Or a producer from a TV network. It's a full-time lie on a parttime basis. And this time all it took was me watching 10 minutes of the new version of Magnum, P.I. to realize I could do it better. I could be Tom Selleck’s Magnum, P.I. All I would need was a mustache, a pair of surprisingly short khaki shorts and someone needing my help. That and a Hawaiian shirt, a Ferrari, a friend willing to drop everything and leave his full-time job to come help me solve a crime, a Detroit Tigers baseball cap, a guesthouse on the estate of a famous author with a British majordomo, a kayak to traverse shark-infested waters, and perhaps a pair of Doberman pinchers named Zeus and Apollo. What could be simpler? But, before we go any further, do yourself a favor and go to YouTube and search “Magnum, P.I. theme.” Have it? Play it now. Play it again1. It is perhaps the best instrumental TV theme of the ’80s. I’ve had it on a loop the entire weekend and it’s made me faster, stronger and manlier. And that came in handy because I needed to grow a mustache quick. Truth be told, I didn’t give myself enough time to do Tom Selleck justice. I live regularly in a Miami Vice Don Johnson stubble, but you really need to plan for a Magnum, P.I. Tom Selleck mustache. Like, weeks. But at least I tried2. And if you don’t have the time (or you’re a woman), I suggest you just order one on Amazon. They have an exceptionally wide
ADAM LARKUM
G U L F S H O R E
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E X P L O R E R
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variety of questionable facial hair available via Prime. Now, I know what you’re saying: “This sounds genius.” True enough. But if it were easy, everybody would be doing it. And it turns out borrowing a Ferrari is harder than it looks. Renting one is easy, but cost-prohibitive. Luckily, several friends suggested Ferrari-owning friends of their own who would let me borrow one of their cars. Unfortunately, none of those people returned my calls or emails. Shocking. Of course, I wouldn't let a perfect stranger borrow my car, either. But there was no way I was going to be Thomas Magnum in my black Porsche. So, I called up Enterprise Car Rental. After all, they have an exotic car division. Unfortunately3, it turns out they don’t have Ferraris. They do have Aston Martins and Jaguars, but none of them were red. (Sigh.) So, I ended up renting a blood-red Mustang convertible. I know, but if I drove fast enough, people wouldn't know the difference. And with the theme4 blasting through the car’s speakers, I was at least up to Matt Houston standards5. So, I called up my buddy Lyle to see if he wanted to drop everything and assist me on my investigation. Rick Wright that he is, he did drop everything, and we headed down to Tin City. There’s a place there called Captain’s Closet that carries the official Magnum, P.I. Hawaiian Jungle Bird shirt made by Paradise Found (an actual Hawaiian shirt company). Finding the store was Mystery No. 1. It turns out Tin City is a lot bigger than I remembered. Regardless, for just $59 I was inching closer to theme staycation success. Even better, Tin City is set on the docks. And if I remember my ’80s television correctly, and I do, you could always count on some nefarious activity taking place at the docks: cocaine coming in with a shipment of bananas; bad guys holding a kidnap victim in a warehouse; an illegal chop shop dismantling luxury vehicles and exporting them to third-world despots. The trick here is to wander around and look like you belong and then at the last second yell, “HEY YOU!” Guilty parties will run. So, there I was in my Magnum, P.I. Hawaiian shirt, mustache at the ready, watching a guy on a forklift driving past a warehouse. Cue the theme music6. Lyle (aka Faux Rick) remembered that forklift drivers on television are always guilty of something. So I yelled “HEY YOU!” at the top of my lungs and discovered an older woman was walking right behind me7. I apparently
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OU T OF H I S MIND 3. This is a word you learn to accept a lot during theme staycations. 4. Play it now. 5. Anyone remember Lee Horsley? 6. No, seriously, play it now. 7. I blame the short shorts. 8. My compliments to the local police. Things seem pretty safe and secure. 9. Note to self: Strapping a knife to your calf is one of the quickest ways to feel like you’re living your best life. However, remove the knife and strap before you try to peel off your wet swim trunks. 10. Yeah, she’s hiding something.
scared her so bad that she made a beeline straight to her car. But the forklift driver didn’t even flinch. (“He’s innocent,” Lyle said.) Only later did it occur to me that the old woman may have, in fact, been a young man in disguise. He/she may actually have been a drug mule. (If so, well-played, young man.) With my work at the docks done, it was time to head into the ritzy part of town to see if an heiress had been kidnapped or if anyone was in need of private investigative services, such as planning security for a shipment of rare diamonds or protecting the young children of a Fortune 500 CEO from threats of kidnapping. I drove through Port Royal very slowly, but no one ran out into the street to flag me down8. Of course, even though it is heaven, Naples isn’t Hawaii. I remember Judge Judy once telling me that she almost bought property on Sanibel and Captiva when she was looking to move here because “it was the closest thing to the South Pacific” she ever saw in the continental United States. At the time I thought she was going to be found not guilty by reason of insanity, but now that I think of it, she might be right. Magnum lived in Hawaii, and Sanibel and Captiva are reasonable facsimiles. It also occurred to me that celebrated author Randy Wayne White is basically our version of Robin Masters, so it seemed logical that he’d let me stay in his guesthouse on Captiva while I operated my P.I. business. It turns out I don't know Randy Wayne White. Or his address. But I heard that his house was gated from the water side (weird, right?), so I unloaded my inflatable standup paddleboard from the trunk and dragged it onto the beach near South Seas Island Resort. I then strapped a professional-grade scuba knife to my calf— because that’s pure Magnum9. Unfortunately, I got probably only 300 yards into the Gulf of Mexico before getting tuckered out. The seas were pretty rough, and inflating one of those boards really takes a lot out of you. So I went with Plan B: lunch at Doc Ford’s. The restaurant chain is owned by White, so even if he wasn’t willing to put me up in his guesthouse for an indeterminate length of time, surely he could buy me a grouper sandwich and an iced tea. Growing this mustache is hard work, and I really needed some nourishment. But, in what was now becoming a string of failures, White wasn’t at the restaurant and my waitress claimed not to know where he lived10. Oh well. That’s unimportant at the moment. What is important is how one gets tartar sauce out of a mustache. Seriously, anyone?
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R IGHT NOW CHEF’S CHOICE
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RECIPE
Baked Cheese and Eggs 1½ ounces Tomino, a soft Piedmontese cow’s milk cheese similar to taleggio Sprig of rosemary 2 organic brown eggs, preferably local and free-range Pinch of Maldon sea salt 2 long slices rustic bread 2 ounces Fennel Marmalata (see below recipe) 1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Slice cheese in 6 even pieces, leaving the rind on, and lay flat in a cast-iron pan. 2. Pick 8 to 10 leaves off rosemary sprig and sprinkle over cheese. 3. Crack eggs over pan atop cheese. 4. Bake until egg whites are cooked through and the yolks are still slightly runny, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt. 5. Toast sliced bread. Spread room-temperature Fennel Marmalata on top. Then serve with warm cheese and eggs.
BAKED CHEESE AND EGGS WITH FENNEL MARMALATA R YA N F R E D S T R O M , A N G E L I N A’ S R I S T O R A N T E
Inspired by a childhood dish from his grandmother, Angelina’s Executive Chef Ryan Fredstrom readily admits this recipe is perfect any time of day. It’s a dinner appetizer at the restaurant and will also likely guest-star for the annual Mother’s Day brunch at this sumptuous Bonita Springs den of Italian fine dining. Fredstrom says local organic eggs make a world of difference (his are from Circle C Farm). The marmalata, or marmalade, yields a big batch, about 1 ½ gallons, which can be jarred and stored (or substituted with preserves). — 24041 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, 390-3187, angelinasofbonitasprings.com
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1. Remove tops and cores from fennel and thinly slice. Repeat same cuts for onions. 2. Place oil and butter over medium heat in a large rondeau or stock pot; add onions and fennel and let sweat for 25 to 30 minutes. 3. Once fennel and onions are translucent, add salt, vinegar, sugar and water. Cook for 1 hour over mediumlow heat. Meanwhile, peel and juice oranges and place both peels and juice in the fennel-onion mix while it is cooking. Add thyme leaves. 4. Once sugar starts to become thick and bubble, remove from heat. 5. Using an industrial-strength food processor, pulse mix until chunky and spreadable. Do this for the entire pan. 6. Let mix cool and store in airtight containers.
BRIAN TIETZ (2)
Fennel Marmalata 24 fennel bulbs 4 yellow onions 4 ounces olive oil 4 ounces unsalted butter 2 ounces kosher salt 1 quart white vinegar 32 ounces granulated sugar 2 quarts water 2 naval oranges ¼ ounce fresh thyme leaves
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SO MUCH FOR A QUIET VISIT TO THE WINERY There were so many good fruit wines to sample at the Schnebly Winery in Redland and a rollicking time with the karaoke.
Last spring, I drove across the state to Coral Gables to spend the weekend with my niece, who was roundly pregnant at the time. A friend who knew I was headed to Miami had asked before I left, “Big party plans this weekend?” and I told him I’d be lucky if we left the house. Nearly a year later, I was again visiting my niece— but a lot had changed. For starters, she has a baby at home, the sweetest, blue-eyed, dimpled little boy I’ve ever laid eyes on (of course, I’m biased). Another change? My niece is no longer the pleasantly drowsy, happy-to-relax-by-the-pool mom-to-be. No, this mama was ready to cut loose. Her husband hadn’t been home 5 minutes before she’d handed over the baby, slung her purse over her shoulder and called on her way out the door, “Don’t wait up.” We were headed to the Schnebly Winery in Redland, outside of Homestead, a sprawling complex that sells its own exotic fruit wines, has multiple bars and on Friday nights offers karaoke. Our first stop? The wine tasting. “Good evening, ladies,” said the man behind the bar with a cockeyed grin. He laid two sheets of paper on the bar, lists of the wines available to try, and told us to choose five each. We went down the list. There were none of the traditional varietals, no cabernet sauvignon or pinot grigio, but instead these wines were made with fruit from the
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Redland area—avocado, coconut, passion fruit, lychee, guava, carambola, mango. My niece and I made a series of tick marks and passed him our lists. “Good choices,” he said. We sipped the first, a sweet avocado wine, like discerning connoisseurs. And we approached the second, a dry carambola rosé, with dignified civility. But by the third, an effervescent glass of sparkling lychee wine, we began to loosen up. “This is de-lychee-ous,” my niece said, laughing at her own pun. She raised a glass to the bartender and he laughed, too. We made short order of the next two on the list—CocoVino and Mango
COURTESY OF SCHNEBLY WINERY (3)
By Artis Henderson
gulfshorelife.com
4/8/19 3:04 PM
NO GRAPES HERE
The wines of Schnebly Winery are made exclusively from fruits found in the Redland area.
Dolce—and somewhere along the way the bartender must have forgotten we’d already had our five tastes. “What are you having next, ladies?” he asked with a wink. My niece and I looked at each other. “Passion fruit?” she asked. “You got it.” It was just the thing my niece needed to push her into the karaoke zone. She grabbed my hand. “Let’s go sing,” she said. We took seats in the bar that overlooked the karaoke stage, and before her courage could leave her, my niece had added her name to the list. We waited through a nervy rendition of Sinatra’s Fly Me to the Moon and a sweet take on an Ariana Grande ballad, and then my niece was up onstage, microphone in hand, belting out the opening lyrics to Train’s Drops of Jupiter. Motherhood has made her bolder, I saw, and—frankly—it suited her. The audience loved it, clapping and cheering, joining in for the chorus. They gave her a wild ovation as she finished, and when she stepped off stage my niece was radiant. Of course, a trip to the Schnebly Winery doesn’t have to involve a karaoke solo. There’s plenty to do without getting onstage, between the tastings and the gift shop and the restaurant, which is quite good. Plus, there are tours of the winery and the brewery. But the place lends itself well to a big night out, whether or not you have a baby at home.
IF YOU GO The Schnebly Winery is open every day. Tours of the winery are offered on weekends every hour on the hour from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday and 1-4 p.m. on Sunday. Tours are $8 per person, and tickets are sold on a first-come basis in the retail room. Wine tastings are held throughout the day. The ultimate tasting costs $12.95 and includes a taste of five wines and a souvenir glass. 30205 SW 217th Ave., Homestead; (305) 242-1224; schneblywinery.com The winery’s website offers regular weekend deals, where $35 gets you two ultimate wine tastings, two winery tours and two admissions to the night’s event (karaoke on Fridays, and live music on Saturdays). Though true oenophiles might balk at Schnebly’s wines, the exotic fruit options offer a fun break from the usual standards. Don’t miss the sweet and full-bodied lychee wine, the winery’s most award-winning.
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Dear Carrie, On the one hand, you’re entitled to have whatever you want in your home. But I’d say toilet paper is probably not best for the décor, especially when it gets political. I know you didn’t want it showing, but you need to be more careful about hiding gifts that might offend those you invite to visit you. It’s too late to flush the evidence of this mistake, but tell your friend you’re sorry and hope she can wipe it from her memory.
SHOULD THE RICHER SPOUSE DECIDE?
—PEGGY, NAPLES
EYE ROLL ABOUT BANKROLL Dear Peggy, Let him win? Get his way because he thinks money talks? Marriage is not a competition, nor should it be governed by who’s got the fatter wallet at the moment. I’m no marriage counselor, but I would say this situation is less about a trip and more about valuing each other and your respective wishes and desires. I think you two need a remedial escape to a planet called Compromise. Surely a travel agent could help you find some kind of cruise to a resort destination. Then you’ve got a win-win deal and a model for moving forward with a healthier relationship.
BATHROOM POLITICS? NO! A Republican friend discovered toilet paper under my sink with a certain president’s face on them. It was given to me as a joke. I didn’t realize my guest might be upset if she found it. She is furious and thinks I’m a terrible person. What should I do? —Carrie, Fort Myers
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A friend is constantly trying to impress me with how much she spends. If she gives a gift, she will be sure to let me know how much it cost. If she’s traveling, she’ll let everyone know she’s flying first class. If she brings wine to a dinner, she’ll tell the “bargain price at $X a bottle.” It’s beyond annoying. Everyone rolls their eyes. Should I tell her we’re sick of hearing about it? —Peter, Naples
Suzanne Willis is a hospitality consultant and the founder/CEO (Chief Etiquette Officer) of Mimi’s Manners, specializing in dining etiquette for children, teens and adults. Have a question for Suzanne? Email justbehave@ gulfshorelife.com.
Dear Peter, I can see there’s a price to pay for a friend like this. Perhaps your friend has self-esteem issues and needs to feel important. You could express your irritation over her bragging, but maybe you should ignore her boasts and immediately reply with compliments about the qualities you truly value in her. Make her feel that she’s a treasure for those and not for the treasure in her checkbook. You’ll both be the richer for it. EDWIN FOTHERINGHAM
My husband and I are planning a summer vacation. We’ve researched places and met with travel agents. I want to go on a cruise. He wants to go to a resort. He feels that because he makes the most money, he should have the final decision on our trip. I feel slighted and embarrassed that he would hold the financial situation over my head. Should I let him win and go to the resort?
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BABEFES T ARRIVES
The StayinMay Festival has a script surprise in the award-winning short film Easy Way Out. By Melanie Pefinis
What does Naples have in common with the likes of Santa Fe, Amsterdam, Oceanside? Soon each city will have showcased the award-winning short film Easy Way Out, which will appear in Naples on May 5 as part of the StayInMay Festival. The annual festival, this year running through May 7, encourages snowbirds to stay here into the month of May by promising diverse cultural offerings, including musical acts, fine art exhibits, wellness events, culinary activities and, of course, film. Easy Way Out has been awarded prizes in Spain and the Netherlands, as well as New Mexico and California. Adapted from David MacGregor’s play For Old Time’s Sake, the film explores the love life of a husband and wife and the subtle differences between being in love and being committed to your partner. What makes the film so different is filmmaker Jeffery Schultz’s decision to reverse the genders of the main characters from MacGregor’s original script.
In Easy Way Out (shots at right and above), a woman's reasons for leaving her husband for a much younger man are more complex than they first seem.
“When I first read the play, I liked the husband and wife characters David created and his premise that often people stay in relationships longer than they should,” Schultz says. “These are complex issues, and they should be very interesting, yet I wasn’t inspired to adapt them into a film. Then the proverbial lightbulb went off. So, that’s when I decided to switch the gender of the characters in my adaptation.” Viewing it will be different experience for everyone, “particularly between genders,” Schultz says. All of StayInMay, beyond Easy Way Out and the rest of the festival’s Short Film Fest, presents opportunity for reflection and discourse. As Schultz says, “Feedback suggests we need to go beyond just giving voice to each other— we need to listen. I find that fascinating.” For a full schedule of festival events, visit stayinmay.com.
COURTESY OF JEFFERY T. SCHULTZ/ KNAGEN FILMS (2)
A TWIST ON THE EASY WAY OUT
Patrons of the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center know Angela Page as the center’s studio and marketing manager. But this dynamo is also a poet, musician and former college professor—and the force behind nonprofit Love Your Rebellion, which aims to empower marginalized groups through the arts. Love Your Rebellion’s flagship event, Babefest, hits Fort Myers on May 24. “The goal was to empower women in music,” Page says. “Now, it’s grown into something that we call a diversity-first festival. The goal is to get more diversity in the musical acts and the art vendors.” Calling the arts the “glue” that holds communities together, Page recognizes the responsibility that artists have to present things that are unexpected or unfamiliar in order to foster understanding among varied populations. “Art is influenced by experience. That breeds acceptance.” —MP
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UNEXPECTED CASTING DECISION
I N S I G H T
A JOURNEY DOWN MEMORY LANE 2019, acrylic on canvas, 49.25 by 36 inches , by Arturo Correa
Is it a surreal puzzle, or ripped-from-the-headlines news? Arturo Correa’s collage-like paintings often contain elements of both, mixed in a direct and insistent manner. The Naples-based artist seems to open the suitcase of his mind and fling bits of imagery at the canvas in works such as A Journey Down Memory Lane. Meaning is found through the accumulation of images painted so skillfully that they appear to be photographic. The central visual element is an attractive young woman who aims her camera directly outward. Below, her image is reversed like a Rorschach blot. Above her are the words “take d’pict,” short for “take the picture.” That also sounds like an instruction for viewers to pay attention; there’s lots more to come. Arrayed around the woman are other images generated by Correa’s churning
Alliance for the Arts in Fort Myers continues to foster artistic accessibility in its 25th anniversary season. As Communications Manager Desiree DeMolina explains, “We have an ongoing commitment to promote diversity within the arts and provide greater access to artistic expression.” Rancho Mirage, the Theatre Conspiracy production playing at the Alliance May 9-19, exemplifies this goal. By forgoing traditional casting requirements, Director Anne Dodd gives this story of residents in a gated community a new spin. “When I put out my audition notice, I specified that I was open to all colors, shapes and sizes,” Dodd says. She ended up selecting an entirely African-American cast. “We desperately need theater that educates and unsettles as well as entertains. We need hope, and the arts can provide that. It is a balm for our collective soul. We need stories to help us understand one another. Acting is stepping into someone else's life for a time. Theater widens our hearts and brains. It is important and imperative.”
mind—cartoon characters, a child’s drawing, the iconic tongueand-lips logo of the Rolling Stones, and hibiscus flowers with saucily protruding stamen. Perhaps the most poignant part of this painting is the grayed-out image of travelers with suitcases at lower left, stamped “Censored.” They represent the millions of people who have fled the artist’s beloved native country, Venezuela, in recent years due to its protracted economic and political crises. “My painting is our daily news,” Correa says. “It’s the news of how I see the world. You as the viewer can take the elements and make something else out of it.” Correa’s artwork can be seen by appointment at his studio. arturocorrea.net —Janice T. Paine, education program manager at the United Arts Council of Collier County
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Leaning Toward Tilt-Up Construction?
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THE LATEST IN FASHION AND ACCESSORIES
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We consider May to be the outdoor recreation sweet spot. Days are longer, but the summer heat has yet to emerge in full force. Roads are emptier and thus friendlier to cyclists. Tennis courts are easier to snag at your preferred time. Country clubs have begun their seasonal golf reciprocals. Shall we go on? See on these pages our picks for staying smart and stylish as you get out and play. BY CARLA DELGADO GRIPPA
01. TURBO COMO 4.0 BIKE by Specialized, $3,349.99; 02. DOMERINGER BELLS by Electra, $11.99; 03. CAVENDISH EDITION AERO 5 HELMET by Oakley, $249.99; 04. T-SHIRT, $24.99; Naples Cyclery, naplescyclery.com. ERIK KELLAR
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ST Y LE POINTS T H E
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01. M5 DRIVER by Taylor Made, $549; 02. E.R.C. SOFT BALLS by Callaway, $39.99; 03. C-130 SUPERCHARGED CART BAG by Sun Mountain, $279.99; 04. FLEX SPIKELESS GOLF SHOE by Foot Joy, $89.99; PGA TOUR Superstore, pgatoursuperstore.com.
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ERIK KELLAR
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05. INSTINCT GPS WATCH by Garmin, $299.99; Naples Cyclery, naplescyclery.com. 06. CLASH 100 RACKET by Wilson, $249; PGA TOUR Superstore. 07. SWANK SUNGLASSES by Tifosi, $24.99; Naples Cyclery. 08. NEON DRI OVERGRIP by GAMMA, $5.79; JusTennis, naplestennis.co.
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SK I N IN THE GA M E All this outdoor activity—particularly amid lengthening days and intensifying heat—calls for sun prevention, protection and after care. A nurtured skin will be more resilient to the impact of the sunlight. Start with a good sports sunscreen, which will provide defense without discomfort, and follow up with natural products to help nourish the skin back to health. —Carla Delgado Grippa
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01. UV SPORT BROAD-SPECTRUM SPF 50 by EltaMD, $48 per 7-ounce airless pump; The Woodruff Institute, thewoodruffinstitute.com. 02. ALOE VERA by Aubrey, $7.49; 03. SHADED ROSE SOLAR CALMING FACIAL CREAM by SanRe, $21.95; Food & Thought, foodandthought.com. 04. ALOE PLANT, $12.99; Driftwood Garden Center & Florist, driftwoodgardencenterandflorist.com.
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ERIK KELLAR
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LOOK LIKE YOUR
YOUNG SELF AGAIN Bespoke Facial Harmonization By Suzana Akemi Tanimoto, PA-C
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ST Y LE POINTS S H O P P O R T U N I T I E S
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COLOR F U L , Y ET PROFESSIONA L I’m required to wear business-appropriate attire at work, although there’s no restriction on color. I’d love to wear some of this season’s oranges and yellows—do you think I can do so and still look professional? – p o p p y h ., n a p l e s Yes. I. Do. With such vibrant sunny hues, it would be easy to go overboard into frivolity; your discipline is that you need to keep things looking professional. Keep the silhouettes simple and clutter-free, and let the color make a statement. A fitted blazer in a rich tangerine would be fabulous teamed with a skirt or pants in creamy beige. Try a buttery yellow blouse with a deep caramel bottom half. When it comes to pairing separates, avoid neutrals that create a high contrast (such as black or navy)—neutral earth tones work better and look more refined.
M E A SU R I NG T H E H EIGH T OF H E E LS In January, you wrote about heel heights for various pant lengths, but how do you measure heels? When I’ve bought shoes online, I’ve noticed the stated heel height can vary by a quarter-inch or more. –m i s t y r ., n a p l e s Unfortunately, there no longer appears to be an industry standard for measuring heel height. It used to be gauged by placing the shoe on a flat surface and measuring straight down from the highest point at the back of the heel to the top of the heel cap/sole. However, some major online retailers measure from the center side of the heel to where it meets the sole. There may also be slight variations in heel height depending on your shoe size. Before you order, carefully check the vendor’s method of measuring heel heights and use that as your guide.
DI D YOU K NOW? Cotton and linen are stronger when wet than dry. Respectively absorbing up to 25 percent and 20 percent of their weight before feeling damp, this makes them ideal for hot weather wear and household items such as sheets and towels. By contrast, silk loses almost 20 percent of its strength when wet.
Cheryl Lampard, founder of Style Matters International, answers your questions each month. Have a question for Cheryl? Email dearcheryl@gulfshorelife.com.
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PEOPLE | THE BUZZ | PARTIES
ON THE GO SERVICE FOR ALL In this month's Speaking Out, Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida leader Mike Ellis shares how the network attempts to care for an underserved population amid the area's growth.
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How a Florida Supreme Court justice’s suggestion brought Andy Solis to Naples and a thriving career as a lawyer and Collier County commissioner By Kristine Gill
A framed photo of Florida Supreme Court Justice Ben Overton hangs above Collier County Commissioner Andy Solis’ desk. The judge looks serious in the picture, wearing his robes and staring out of the frame. His picture is there because without him, it’s not likely Solis would have ended up here, in Collier County, when his fledgling law career could have taken him to any major city in the state more than 25 years ago. “He told me that Naples was essentially kind of a new place and it was growing. It wasn’t this old town with a legal establishment that had been around for years,” Solis says. “He said, ‘Go to Naples where you can get involved and be part of creating the legal community there.’” So he did. That was in 1993. Fresh off a two-year clerkship under Overton following completion of law school from Florida State University, Solis, then just 30 years old, drove out of the state capitol, past Orlando where Orange County’s population was flirting with three quarters of a million, and through Tampa where the first courthouse was a log cabin that burned down during the Second Seminole Indian Wars. He stopped along Interstate 75 before it would have led him to Miami (where courthouse parking headaches rival only that of their nightclubs), opting instead for the fringe of the Everglades where the lawyers in town had been trying cases at the East Naples courthouse only since 1962, when the county seat had moved from the “old courthouse” erected in Everglades City in 1926. “I’ve been practicing law here ever since,” Solis says. He took a position at a firm called Young, van Assenderp and Varnadoe, and later became a founding partner at Siket, Solis and Maher, whose name took on an alphabet soup of
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TENNIS AND THE AMERICAN DREAM A native Floridian, Solis is the youngest of three children and the only born in the U.S. His parents emigrated from Cuba in the 1960s when his father, a civil engineer, became a professor at the School of Architecture at the University of Florida. His mother, a successful architect in her own right, designed Cuba’s statehouse building that housed the supreme, trial and appellate courts all at once until it became the headquarters for the Communist party. “It was the nicest building,” Solis shrugs. His older brother would go on to become a surgeon. And his sister works at the Harn Museum of Art in Gainesville. Both of Solis' parents have died, but up until her recent passing his mother liked to come to all the Coffee with a Commissioner events Solis hosts in District 2, where she sat at the back. “She (told) everyone I’m her son on their way out,” Solis says. Born in Lakeland, Solis was raised in Gainesville. Alabama State stole him out from under his hometown college on a tennis scholarship. Not only did he go pro, but he also was a two-time AllAmerican at Alabama and twice played in the NCAA Championships single draw. He traveled the world playing and was inducted into Alabama’s Tennis Hall of Fame in 1998, but his shoulder wore out over time. “I always knew I was going to go to grad school,” he says.
ERIK KELLAR
THE JUDGE TOLD HIM WHERE TO GO
iterations. He partnered with Rep. Kathleen Passidomo for a time and eventually got recruited to Cohen and Grigsby, where he’s been since 2006, specializing in legal services for businesses. He got married at some point in the mix. The pair later divorced. Their two children are off at college now, and, come to think of it, neither mailed in an absentee ballot to cast a vote for Dad. Luckily, Solis was able to muster enough support for re-election this past year and the first year he ran for the District 2 seat on Collier County Commission, having become a true member of the community, serving on a dozen boards and committees since deciding to call Napes home.
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Solis attended Florida State University College of Law, graduating in 1991. Then he “hit the law school lotto” with a two-year clerkship in the Florida Supreme Court right out of college. That’s where Overton changed his life with a bit of parting advice. Since coming to Collier County, Solis has served on everything from the board of directors for Avow Hospice to the Council of Hispanic Business Professionals, and even taught meditation at Bala Vinyasa Yoga. But he ran for county commission in 2016 on a bit of a whim, and at the last minute. “I qualified the last day of qualifying an hour before the cutoff,” he says. He threw his name in the hat after his predecessor, Georgia Hiller, left to run for the clerk position. “I had a lot of support from people who really mattered, and I was fortunate people knew me from practicing law,” he says. While public service is obviously close to his heart, politics weren’t necessarily on his radar. The position, he says, is simply a tool to serve. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s meaningful in the sense that you can fundamentally help people,” Solis says.
MENTAL HEALTH AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND BEARS, OH MY! Solis spent a year meeting with local stakeholders who had a hand in mental health efforts trying to get a handle on the situation. He says it took six months for him to appreciate the scope and complexity of the issue. "It affects everything from transportation to housing to hospitals and the school district,” he says. Solis pushed for the recent 1 cent sales tax increase in part because of the funding it would provide for a new receiving facility. The David Lawrence Center currently has only 30 beds. The facility won't be finished for a few years and can't break ground until initial proceeds from the tax begin trickling in later this year.
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ON THE GO P L AY E R S
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But Solis isn't just meeting with bigwigs and throwing money at a problem. This year, in lieu of Christmas gifts, he and his significant other, Jan Ice, opted instead to bring lunch to NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) of Collier County residents each week for the next year. This past week, they handed out dozens of sandwiches, cookies and bags of chips. They even brought Ziploc bags so the folks who visited the Sarah Ann Center for lunch on Friday could bring a meal home for the weekend. Then he and Ice sat down with the visitors to talk and eat together. “I know the members were impressed that he even thought of them,” says Pamela Baker, CEO of NAMI of Collier County. “They often feel forgotten by society.” Putting a face to the crisis helps Solis to keep the problem at the forefront and understand it all better. He did the same recently when he cobbled together a group of 10 young professionals whose brains he picked on the issue of affordable housing for the Collier workforce. “We have a senior advisory board, so I was trying to get a group
together who would come to the county meetings,” he says. “For me to be talking about young people and housing, it’s kind of an abstract thing,” he continues. “But when young people showed up, it changed the conversation considerably.” In the meantime, there are bears running around North Naples, tipping trash cans for their nightly buffets and scaring residents. "I get emails from folks in Tarpon Cove all the time,” he says. “Pelican Marsh, Wilshire Lakes.” Waste Management is piloting a program that would upgrade trash and recycling cans to a new bear-proof variety. There’s a ton going on in D2 right now. A major project is in the works to replace sewer and water lines along 25 miles of roadway in Naples Park. Commissioners are meeting about the use of fertilizers, as they affect water quality, as well. And all the while, Solis is thinking about how the county can diversify its economy to shift from a dependency on tourism. He points to the new culinary accelerator in Immokalee, which has already produced four businesses. “It has the potential to change not only the economy in Immokalee, but in the county,” Solis says.
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“HE IS THE KIND OF PERSON WHO VERY NATURALLY CAN LOOK AT A COMPLICATED SITUATION ... AND EVALUATE IT FROM ALL ANGLES.” — CHUCK COHEN
THE BEST ADVICE Solis' boss, Chuck Cohen, speaks of him with the same reverence Solis radiates when asked about Justice Overton. Cohen recruited Solis to his firm in 2006, having learned of his reputation among colleagues. Within minutes of meeting, he learned Solis had a great personality, too. “Big brain, big heart. Exclamation point,” Cohen says. “And it’s
all leavened with a terrific sense of humor.” It takes a patient mind, Cohen says, to appreciate the scope of a problem such as mental health. “He is the kind of person who very naturally can look at a complicated situation ... and evaluate it from all angles,” Cohen says. “He has done that pretty consistently as a lawyer, and that’s what he is bringing to public service.” Solis remembers the same open-mindedness and patience from Overton, who once calmed an enraged man who visited the courthouse demanding to see him by sitting down with him for more than an hour. By the end, the two had parted ways with a handshake and a hug. “And he said, ‘You know, people just want to know someone is listening to them,’” Solis says. He sips a tiny cup of Cuban coffee recalling the memory and smiles at the portrait above his desk. Solis credits the changes he’s been able to effect here in large part to the judge, who urged him to do what fellow lawyers weren’t doing 26 years ago and to choose Collier County. “It’s the best advice I’ve ever received,” Solis says.
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GLAD ALL THOSE MANATEES ARE SO NICE Kayaking on the Orange River amid masses of these giant mammals proved fun, though the writer was ever fearful of the random alligator.
I love air-conditioning and I adore comfortable furniture. I like ice cubes in my cocktails and a remote control in my hand. I’m dependent on Wi-Fi and I need good cellphone service. Humidity makes me wilt; heat causes me to be cranky. I’m terrified of mosquitoes and am convinced that they all carry the Zika virus. The very thought of snakes makes me cringe, and I am downright petrified by alligators. And yet, here I am living in the untamed, tropical wilderness of Florida—which is why I stay in my condo a lot with the AC cranked down to 70 degrees. I’m also not particularly into exercise—breaking a sweat is not my thing. But, like it or not, a girl needs to step out of her temperaturecontrolled comfort zone every now and then and convene with nature, which is how I ended up in a kayak on the Orange River one relatively recent morning. By the by, I also abhor mornings and don’t get along well with folks who are chipper before 10 a.m. So, it’s curious that one of my very favorite people, Anne, is outdoorsy, loves mornings and is highly athletic. I’m always trying to get Anne to join me for happy hour, while, on the other hand, she is often trying to get me to join her for a hike in the woods. Friendship is all about balance, so after the last time Anne and I met for cocktails, I suspected there was something outdoorsy in our future.
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Anne suggested the kayaking excursion—and not only would we be kayaking; we’d be kayaking in the manatee-infested waters of Manatee Park in East Fort Myers. The reason manatees flock to the park is there’s a power plant nearby that constantly discharges warm water—and it turns out that manatees love warmth almost as much as I love ice-cold AC. The water in the Orange River by the power plant is basically an enormous manatee hot tub. Having lived in Southwest Florida since I was a kid, I know a little bit about manatees. Most importantly, I know they’re strict vegetarians and that, unlike alligators and sharks, they have no desire to make a meal out of me. But, that doesn’t change the fact that these guys are really, really big. In fact, the West Indian manatee (the type you’ll most likely see around these parts) can grow up to 1,000 pounds. Who knew that sea grasses and marine algae could make you so plump? Maybe the keto diet of mostly protein and very few carbs is something I need to consider…
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By Stephanie Davis
gulfshorelife.com
4/8/19 3:11 PM
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“UNLIKE ALLIGATORS AND SHARKS, THEY HAVE NO DESIRE TO MAKE A MEAL OUT OF ME.”
At Manatee Park, you can enjoy watching manatees from the comfort and safety of WITH , LIFE CAN BE land, where there’s a large viewing area from If you struggle with chronic stress, depression, pain or opioid which you can watch addiction, and other treatments have failed, ketamine infusion them playing, diving and coming up for air therapy (K.I.T.) may be right for you. Dr. Gary Lawson-Boucher (they ’re ma mma ls, of RiKai Therapeutics is a highly experienced anesthesiologist after all). and caring physician with a specialized focus on K.I.T. This Or, you can rent a wee kayak, don a lifeFDA-approved treatment has been clinically proven to be safer jacket and get right in the manatee hot tub along with hundreds of these giant creatures. and more effective than other commonly prescribed therapies. I’m not necessarily afraid of manatees— Talk to Dr. Lawson-Boucher about your individual situation and it’s the other creatures in the water that I the results he has achieved for patients like you. can’t see that strike fear in my heart. You know, like water moccasins, pinching crabs F I N D O U T I F k.i.t I S R I G H T F O R YO U TO DAY ! and even stingrays (there have been reports ERAPEUTICS THERAPEUTICS of them in the Orange River)—but, mostly, N O P H YS I C I A N R E F E R R A L I S N E C E S S A RY. I’m scared to death of alligators. My biggest fear was that a careless manatee would swim underneath my kayak and accidentally tip it Adult Class VALENTINE’S BOGO Special over, when suddenly an alligator would dart 6 WEEK SPECIAL FEB 1 ST-MARCH 15 TH Adult Class VALENTINE’S BOGO Special over and have me for breakfast. 6 WEEK SPECIAL FEB 1 ST-MARCH 15 TH My fear of gators is a healthy one. WhenTHERAPEUTICS ever I hear of dimwits on golf courses trying to get close to one of these monster reptiles With K.I.T., life can be. just so they can get a photo of it on their iPhone for Facebook, I’m amazed by their KITatRIKAI.com | 239.631.6313 lack of respect for these decedents of dinosaurs with such huge power and sharp teeth. And when I hear of tourists actually feeding JAZZ • MUSICAL THEATRE gators, I have to wonder if those tourists JAZZ••LEAPS MUSICAL THEATRE ARY & TURNS • HIP HOP actually to have arms when they ARY • LEAPS & TURNS • HIP HOP Adult Classdeserve VALENTINE’S BOGO Special 6 WEEK SPECIAL FEB 1 -MARCH 15 clearly don’t care about them. way way When Anne and I were kayaking in the L FL Orange River, I was perfectly in tune with THERAPEUTICS Day Camps, Intensives, Classes RAPEUTICS the fact that we were in the alligator’s house. IT’S NOT TOO LATE - GET ALL THIS & MORE And if we got eaten, it was because we were e.org IT’S NOT TOO LATE - GET ALL THIS & MORE se.org AT BEGINNER & ADVANCED LEVELS ST AT BEGINNER & ADVANCED LEVELS willingly serving ourselves up as morning snacks. So, to say I was petrified as I adventured is putting it mildly. ACRO • TAP • BALLET • JAZZ • MUSICAL THEATRE Meanwhile, Anne was in heaven. Every LYRICAL & CONTEMPORARY • LEAPS & TURNS • HIP HOP time she saw a manatee (which was often), 10650 Metro Parkway she called to them, “Hi, friend!” “Good mornACRO • TAP • BALLET • JAZZ #201 Fort Myers, FL
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4/9/19 11:37 AM
ing, friend!” “Come closer, friend!” She’s like the swamp version of Dr. Doolittle. Anne was filled with delight whenever she glimpsed a tail or saw a snout. And through her awe, I was able to imagine how Florida explorers in the 1400s mistook manatees for mermaids. They really are so peaceful and languid and shapely—and their faces are truly cute. They dipped and played and swam slowly, barely beneath the surface, enjoying the warm water and the sunny day. Lots of other kayakers were there, too, and plenty of folks watched from land. The manatees weren’t clumsily tipping over any kayaks; in fact, they were graceful and seemed to enjoy our company. And after a while, I forgot that I was in the alligators’ house. I relaxed and started snapping photos. I was in
IF YOU GO The waterfront Manatee Park, open daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., provides paved trails, up-close views of manatees, an amphitheater and kayak rentals. 10901 Palm Beach Blvd., Fort Myers; 6905030; leegov. com/parks/ parks/manateepark
the manatees’ day spa and it was beautiful. The only thing not beautiful was seeing so many propeller scars on the backs of these sweet sea cows. It makes me sad that the biggest enemies for manatees are inconsiderate boaters going too fast in no-wake zones. The scarring on these slow-moving animals is heartbreaking to see up close. We need to be more careful out there. Anne and I spent a good two hours kayaking with the manatees, and honestly, I could have stayed even longer—it was a good workout for this exercise-challenged porch drinker. Next time, though, Anne owes me some time over a bottle of wine under a ceiling fan on a porch. I’ll definitely be using my mermaid wine glasses for the occasion.
Photos courtesy of Max Kelly, Maxwell Mackenzie
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COME BY CAR OR BOAT: N 26º 39’ 562” W 82º 9’ 180” GULFSHORE LIFE | 69
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MIKE ELLIS President and CEO of Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida
How quickly are you seeing a rise in demand for your services? “We mirror the area in growth. The population of Collier County may double over the next 20 to 25 years. What you see is wealth moving into the area, and you’ve got people servicing that wealth moving into the area. “We provide services for all incomes, regardless of their ability to pay. In Naples, it’s largely the service population. People who take care of roofs, yards, who work in hotels and restaurants and often don’t have the luxury of insurance. People come to us on a slidingfee scale.”
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Where are you with the Nichols Community Health Center? “A little history on that center: Twenty years ago, most of the service population came from the migrant population. Most people drove in from Immokalee. Golden Gate was a middle-class community. Now, most of that population that lived in Immokalee has migrated to Golden Gate. It’s one of the highest concentrations of children and lower-income (residents) in Collier. This happened quietly. It took us by surprise when we started to look at demographics of the county several years ago. We’ve been working on that center for seven years. We have broken ground on it. “There are no primary care offices in that area, except (the network) does have a pediatric office there.” Do you hear, as you’re out discussing and fundraising for this center, from people surprised by that quiet growth? “Yes, as you drive through Golden Gate you see wealth. Sometimes you don’t see the lower income. It’s a huge service population. It’s somewhat of a hidden population.” What are some things you’re most proud of from your time with the network? “There are a number of things. I’ve always felt that there was a need for more psychologists in the heath field. I was the first administrator with the Golisano Children’s Hospital, and we only had one on staff. But
BRIAN TIETZ
Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida started in two trailers in Immokalee, caring for a farming community that lacked access to medical care. That was 1977, back when the organization was known as Collier Health Services. Since then, the county has grown, and the medical network along with it. The network’s doctors, dentists and psychologists see about 50,000 patients a year in 21 locations throughout the community. And, it is in the midst of one of its biggest projects yet—the Nichols Community Health Center in Golden Gate, a 50,000-squarefoot facility that will provide primary care, dentistry, women’s care and psychological services and also house a pharmacy. President and CEO Mike Ellis discussed with us how the network attempts to meet the needs of an underserved population.
gulfshorelife.com
4/8/19 2:36 PM
“YOU’RE NOT JUST TREATING THE BODY NOW. YOU’RE TREATING THE MIND AND THE BODY.” here, working with the Naples Children & Education Foundation, we were able to collaborate with the David Lawrence Center and National Alliance on Mental Illness and some other organizations, and we decided to integrate psychologists into all of our practices. We have a psychologist embedded in every pediatric practice. If a child comes to a physician’s office and the physician picks up on a behavioral issue, they walk the child down the hall—it’s called a warm handoff—to the psychologist. It all happens there. We liked it so well we’ve started to integrate psychologists into all of our practices. You’re not just treating the body now. You’re treating the mind and the body.” What’s your biggest concern moving forward? “The thing that keeps me awake at night is specialty care. Eighteen percent of our funding comes from the federal grants. The rest is Medicaid and some private insurance. On the adult side, most doctors don’t want to take Medicaid. A lot of specialists don’t want to take people with no income. We see a lot of patients with chronic diseases or problems. One of the things that’s challenging is getting our patients to specialty physicians in a timely fashion.” Who is your typical patient? “With adults, who we get are people who worked for a long time and who have avoided medical care. They may have hypertension, diabetes or chronic-type problems. When they get to us, they’re sort of set in their lifestyle and it’s hard to get them to change. Just getting them in to us can be problematic. But, we have been around 40 years. The community knows what we offer. We’re out there talking to people and we do some advertising, but a lot of it is word of mouth.” —Justin Paprocki
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“I COULDN’T HELP TRYING TO HIDE MY BASIC BARGAIN PUMPS UNDER THE TABLE”
INTERVIEWING FERRAGAMO … DRAMATIC $1 MILLION GIFT … ELITE MEN’S BOOK CLUB … AND MORE By Stephanie Davis
It was a sparkling night at The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples as The Naples Players celebrated their 65th anniversary in February with a fabulously successful fundraiser, The Sapphire Soiree. It was extra special for philanthropists Jay and Patty Baker, who were honored for their many years of support for the community theater on Fifth Avenue South. Patty told me that she and Jay were looking forward to making a contribution of $1 million dollars to the nonprofit theater, but they hadn’t yet decided how to present it. So, when the auctioneer asked the crowd to raise their paddles for the Fund-A-Need program, Jay and Patty were inspired. First, Jay raised his paddle for $100,000, and then Patty raised hers for another $100,000—the couple took turns until they reached their gift of a million. Bravo, indeed ... Food fans packed a sold-out restaurant in late January when Society Restaurant
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Local media personality Gina Birch knows all about fan-girling. She’s a serious designer shoe aficionado and had the opportunity to interview Italian shoe designer and vintner Salvatore Ferragamo at the Naples Winter Wine Festival in January. Gina said the fashion superstar was charming and very enthusiastic when talking about his vineyard in Tuscany for Gina’s Grape Minds podcast. “The interview was great,” she said. But she admitted with a laugh, she did all she could to keep him from seeing her ordinary footwear. One time when you don’t want to put your best foot forward.
FROM LEFT: AP ALEXANDER; COURTESY OF GINA BIRCH; COURTESY FOX MEDIA LLC
Patty and Jay Baker
— GINA BIRCH
gulfshorelife.com
4/8/19 2:38 PM
Barret Beyer STEPHANIE DAVIS is a freelance writer and columnist known for her passion for downtown Fort Myers.
& Lounge hosted a Hell’s Kitchen Takeover Chef’s Dinner. The five-course dinner was to-die-for, and the celebrity chefs from Hell’s Kitchen on FOX were over-the-top when it came to entertainment and amazing food—they included chefs Barret Beyer, Bret Hauser, Torrece “T” Gregoire and Sterling Wright. Said Society owner Brad Cozza, “Hell’s Kitchen is one of my favorite shows, and I was so excited to get its stars into our kitchen—what a night!” … One of the most fun and entertaining events I had the pleasure of attending recently was the third annual Twisted Strings Music Festival at Six Bends’ Top Rocker Field to benefit WGCU—but as crew members and volunteers were prepping the grounds, they feared another kind of scene stealer: rain. Thankfully, while there were plenty of drops, there was no downpour, only an outpouring of applause as music lovers showed up in force to enjoy classically trained musicians play everything from rock to pop to hip-hop and more. Taking the stage were the Joyous String Ensemble, Vioelectric and Moxie Strings. Headliner Moxie Strings was a favorite of both the audience and the other bands. Front woman for Vioelectric Michelle Jones said, “I loved watching how our Vioelectric ladies were ‘fan-girling’ over meeting them. It was definitely mutual admiration!” … Shelly Stayer of Port Royal tells me that book clubs aren’t just for women. In fact, her husband, Ralph, owner of Johnsonville Sausage, started an elite book club just for the guys. Among the members are Shahid Khan, owner of the Jacksonville Jaguars; developer Scott Lutgert; and more. “Ralph has become almost like Oprah when it comes to recommending books for friends,” Shelly says. “Once he and his club read something and love it, everyone rushes out to buy the book.”
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MAGIC UNDER THE MANGROVES Hosted on-site to benefit the Conservancy of Southwest Florida PHOTO GR A PH Y BY PE TER FA LENCIK
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CELEBRATION OF GRACE Hosted by The Ritz-Carlton, Naples to benefit Grace Place for Children & Families PHOTO GR A PH Y BY PE TER FA LENCIK
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1. Noel and Shanna Davies 2. Richard and Stephanie Prebish, Kate and John Wasmer 3. Pat Bosscher, Mario Valle 4. Carmen Grifferty, Chichi Goodman 5. Dolly Farrell, Bryan Oliva-Infante, Michele Yovanovich 6. John Slavik, Lisandra Napolitano
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MEN OF IMPACT DINNER Hosted by Bonita Bay Club to benefit the Southwest Florida Women’s Foundation PHOTO GR A PH Y BY PE TER FA LENCIK
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1. Ken O'Donnell, Nancy Merolla 2. Lyvette and Tom McCoy, Jan and Mike Martin, Gail Markham 3. Sally Jackson, Dave Shellenbarger 4. Jacke McCurdy, Dawn-Marie Driscoll 5. Jennifer Trammell, Jennifer Marchionda 6. Tom Schrader, William Tucker
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AVE MARIA LAW SIGNATURE EVENT Benefiting the Ave Maria School of Law Scholarship Fund PHOTO GR A PH Y BY PE TER FA LENCIK
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1. Msgr. Frank McGrath, Meredith Lunde 2. Jeanne and Peter Hosinski, Joe Bare 3. Rob and Jennifer Lancaster 4. Kelli Cieply, Billie Resnick 5. Tom Monaghan, Tom Golisano, John Resnick, Steve Forbes 6. Melissa and Brett Oley
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BEST OF THE GULFSHORE Our editors’ choices of the greatest people, places and moments of the year
CO L L I E R CO U N T Y
Best sigh of relief: Many locals were surprised and anxious to hear The Ritz-Carlton, Naples’ tiki bar and restaurant on the Gulf, Gumbo Limbo, was closed for extensive renovations last year. Thankfully, its character was kept intact, down to the wide tan chairs that are now at a more manageable height. Best not-so-simple salad: The burrata at Jimmy P’s Charred (which now has a second location in Bonita Springs) has always and will forever be the best-in-class because it moves way beyond a few slices of tomato and balsamic drizzle. Pickled red onions, edible flowers, a wall of prosciutto and a trio of sauces meld to form something bold yet perfectly balanced.
E AT I N G + DRINKING
Best invention: The perma-food truck rally. The trucks rove around breweries and make stops at farmers markets, but the astounding success of Celebration Park—a plaza with eight kitchens on wheels and a waterfront bar near Naples Botanical Garden—proves the way forward is to just keep trucking (see p. 242 for more).
FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF THE RITZ-CARLTON, NAPLES; CRAIG HILDEBRAND (2)
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From opposite: A cocktail from Gumbo Limbo at The RitzCarton, Naples; Melissa DonahueTalmage; Lerome Campbell.
BEST REASONS FOR KUDOS
A Gulfshore milestone: Melissa Donahue-Talmage of Sweet Melissa’s on Sanibel was named a 2019 James Beard Awards semifinalist. It’s hard to overstate what a big deal this is: She joined an elite group of epicures across the country, honored in the “Best Chef: South” category with the best in the business.
These two chefs deserve a standing ovation: Asif Syed, chef-owner of 21 Spices in Naples, rose to the challenge on a Food Network episode of Beat Bobby Flay, vanquishing the celebrity chef with his chicken tandoori. Lerome Campbell, a pastry chef at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, was the runner-up on Food Network’s Holiday Baking Championship, a season-long show that began with nine bakers competing for the top prize. Plus, snaps to the teams at these restaurants: Bleu Provence yet again won Wine Spectator’s Grand Award. OpenTable’s 100 Most Scenic Restaurants in America included two in Naples, both from restaurateur Peter Tierney—The Bay House and The Turtle Club. And, National Signing Day for the Clemson football team included a ringing endorsement for Barbatella, from Coach Dabo Swinney, who had visited there to recruit Naples High’s Chez Mellusi.
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Best Naples Wine Shop for Your Personality Eco-conscious: Natural Wines Naples No grapes in these bottles were grown using chemicals, and none have preservatives, either.
Luxe collector: Naples Wine Collection If premium pours are what you seek (like the latest Opus One), know there is no shortage at this posh shop.
Best argument for a narrow focus: Down on Naples’ East Trail, LowBrow Pizza & Beer jokes around on its riotously funny pun-filled menu that it’s “serious about pizza and beer and not much else.” They have the last laugh, however, because their personal-size Neapolitaninfluenced pies are the definition of mouthwatering with cheeses like aged mozzarella and caciocavallo and toppers including garlic-sautéed mushrooms and house fennel-chile sausage. Best reason to eat bread again: If you’ve experimented with keto, paleo or anything close to them, you don’t have to put that diet on pause to visit to the hog-heavenly Fuse BBQ in Park Shore—but you should for any of its five brioche sandwiches. The BCT (smoked brisket that falls apart in your mouth with a mess of cheddar, tomato, fried onions and mayo) is one that will linger in your dreams for months on end.
Best sweet nothing that’s really something: Almost lighter than air, the stiff meringues at Angelic Desserts, an all-organic bakery, are treats that are available throughout the year. But they get a festive slant for each holiday, like sprinkle-dotted Christmas trees, hearts for Valentine’s Day and ghosts for Halloween.
Best news for date night: Why not splurge on a staycation and head over to the new 21-and-up Lanai Tower at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort? Aside from the obvious allure of an adult-only pool, game room and quiet corridors, there’s a beach-fronting restaurant on the fifth floor helmed by a previous contestant of Top Chef.
CLOCKWISE, FROM TOP LEFT: CRAIG HILDEBRAND (2); BRIAN TIETZ; COURTESY OF THE JW MARRIOTT MARCO ISLAND BEACH RESORT
Artisanal gourmand: The Wine Store Providing a personal touch and specializing in small producers and high-end rare finds, it’s the opposite of a bigbox experience.
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Clockwise, from top left: LowBrow Pizza & Beer; Bone Hook Brewing Co.; a Chaîne des Rôtisseurs dinner; the Lanai Tower at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort.
Best motivation to show Everglades City some love: It bounced back from Irma with its fair share of bumps, but the town is home to some pretty iconic dishes (from alligator nuggets to blue crab sandwiches) we still should be supporting. A true epicurean gem is Camellia Street Grill, which puts a cheftrained eye toward seafood pulled straight from the Gulf; salads with ingredients from the on-site garden; and nontraditional spins on Key lime pie (in a semifreddo state, or churned out as a milkshake). Best quiche Lorraine outside of France: It may
sound like hyperbole, but the Tony’s Off Third rendition could pass muster with the pickiest of Old World chefs. Once heated, it’s an infinitely cheesy Gruyere masterpiece with the right ratio of browned bacon and melted sweet onions in a flaky circle. Best promise: When local legend Vin DePasquale—who over the span of more than four decades built and ran the charming old-timey The Dock at Crayton Cove—announced he retired and sold the Naples City Dock seafood spot to boating entrepreneur Doug Traina, Neapolitans could rest easy hearing that Traina vowed to keep the character intact down to the wood paneling and nautical sculptures. Best food fraternity: Roger Weatherburn-Baker, leader of the Naples Bailliage (chapter) of international gastronomic society the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, has hit his stride. He has had wild success planning seasonal themed events (costumes welcome!) for his members, like a full-blown African safari dinner complete with traditional drummers, animal encounters, Cape Town wines and a menu replete with traditional spices. LEE COUNTY Best chocolate chips, period: You’ll be a convert the second you take a bite of Chloe’s Cookies, a startup that delivers locally its twists on the basic chocolate chip, like sea salt, oatmeal, peanut butter, raspberry and more.
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Rocco’s Tacos & Tequila Bar: When co-owner Rocco Mangel of the newly opened (and super-lively and fun) taqueria in Mercato was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2016, he went on a fundraising kick and used his platform as a restaurateur to raise more than $500,000 for the National MS Society. Sea Salt: Whether it is donating $1 for every glass of wine sold during American Heart Awareness Month or hosting a charity luncheon for Friends of Rookery Bay, this team on Third Street South always has giving back on its agenda. FK Your Diet: Yes, you can throw caution to the wind with burgers, milkshakes and grilled cheese, but the real meaning of “FK” at this Fort Myers café launched in 2018 is “foster kids”—its founder was one, and he has pledged to donate 5 percent of every single check to Foster Kids of Lee County.
Best pretext to pretend you’re a grilling novice: We’re always thrilled when an authentic ethnic restaurant debuts; now, Lee County can celebrate Ember Korean Steakhouse—its forte being tabletop Korean barbecue. There are rows of the DIY tables, but we encourage you to let the servers give you a boost; they know just how long that wagyu strip and short rib need to sizzle.
Best move in the game of chef chess: Over the years, Rosy Tomorrows Heritage Farm has stepped up as a dining destination. And when Richard Howze was hired as executive chef, it was the most natural fit—he had cultivated a reputation as a farm-to-table advocate, and now he’s presiding over a kitchen with a bucolic wonderland at his fingertips.
Best reason to get hot and bothered: Salty, crackly, perfectly tender and rubbed with some heat, the wings at Coconut Point’s The Saloon are reason alone to step into the wild Western eatery. Smoked first then fried, they’re delivered with a choice of house sauces, including one with uber-spicy ghost pepper.
Best (kid- and adultfriendly) way to cool down: Après-fishing, boating or sunning, there’s nothing better than a burst of ice on your tongue. Friddu Gourmet Pops and Bubble Tea in Matlacha has everyone covered with the dozens of artisanal recipes they whip up, such as sweet cream ricotta fig, pineapple cilantro and simply strawberry.
Best reinvention of a classic: Skinny Dogz Brunchery has perfected almost anything that’s consumed before noon (chicken and waffles, hash and grits), but the best
Best case of double happiness: Traditional dim sum is hard to come by in Southwest Florida, and fans of the little Chinese nibbles had flocked to Fort Myers’ Ginger
Bistro for a fix. Last year, the owners (who also specialize in Hong Kong-style barbecue) added a second location in Cape Coral. Best home away from home: Trying Silk Road in Fort Myers for the first time, you know you’re in for an adventure with what’s touted as “Central Asian cuisine.” Turns out an entire Uzbek family runs it, with the mom baking bread and making dumplings and her children helping with everything else. Service is so genuine and warm, with such pride in their heavily Russian- and Mediterranean-influenced fare. Best bet for only a buck: It’s dollars to doughnuts that anyone will go crazy for the sweet
FROM LEFT: ERIK KELLAR; CRAIG HILDEBRAND (2); COURTESY OF ARTISAN EATERY
Best Use of a Restaurant to Do Good
thing on the menu is its collection of Benedicts on biscuits. Creations range from the P.R. (skirt steak, sweet plantains, spinach and sofrito hollandaise) to the Coney (hamburger patties, American cheese, onions, Coney sauce and mustard hollandaise).
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21 Spices by Chef Asif
Clockwise, from opposite top left: Rocco's Tacos; Nuts4Donuts; Artisan Eatery; Skinny Dogz Brunchery.
concoctions laced and topped with everything under the sun at the San Carlos Park newcomer Nuts 4 Donuts. Baked fresh each day at $1.50 apiece, you won’t want to stop at just the owner’s Oreo cookie, Kahlua mudslide or Nutella-glazed.
Angelina’s Ristorante
Best one-way ticket to Philly: Chef-owner Tim Yoa of Artisan Eatery came out of the City of Brotherly Love with a culinary degree, and while his fine-dining education shines in this upscalecasual counter service café on Daniels Parkway, he does his roots proud with a classy rendition of cheesesteak—on a baguette, gooey from a ridiculous amount of American, and chock-full of shaved ribeye and fried onions.
Fuse Global Cuisine
Best excuse to bank your calories: If decadence defines a successful weekend, book a table at Tarpon Bay’s Sunday seafood brunch. The buffet is fit for a king or queen, with towers of raw-bar favorites, chafing dishes stuffed with eggy greats, and platter after platter of cheeses, pastries and other surprises.
Azure The Bay House Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro Bleu Provence Campiello The Continental Dusk Fish Tale Grill The French Il Cielo Jimmy P’s Charred La Trattoria Café Napoli The Local M Waterfront Grille Mad Hatter Osteria Tulia Ridgway Bar & Grill Sea Salt Sweet Melissa’s A Table Apart Timeless – an MHK Eatery USS Nemo The Veranda Veranda E Wyld’s Café
—Dorothea Hunter Sönne
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BEST MAKE-BELIEVE: Late for the Sky Production Co. launched Naples-opoly, a Monopoly-inspired board game featuring fun spins on the classics (think landing in a traffic jam instead of jail; getting a sunburn instead of having to pay income tax). Properties up for grabs include Tin City, the Naples Zoo, Clam Pass Park and other hometown hot spots.
BEST GIFT GIVEN AT A SATURDAY NIGHT PARTY: Philanthropists Jay and Patty Baker kicked off the Naples Senior Center at JFCS’ $15 million campaign to raise money for new, state-of-the-art headquarters with a lead gift of $5 million at the center’s annual fundraiser on Jan. 12. The campaign’s pledge total exceeded $10 million before the end of the evening. As for the best Friday night party gift? The Bakers turned around and donated another generous sum in fittingly dramatic fashion at The Naples Players’ 65th anniversary soiree on Feb. 8. See p. 72 for more.
BEST COLLAPSE: Another quirky Guinness World Record broken: To raise awareness for the need for food aid in Collier County, nonprofit Meals of Hope toppled a whopping 3,913 cereal boxes like dominoes at the start of September, which is Hunger Action Month.
NEUBEK PHOTOGRAPHERS; BRIAN TIETZ (OPPOSITE TOP); PETER FALENCIK (OPPOSITE BOTTOM)
BEST FUSION OF OLD AND NEW: The Southwest Florida Community Foundation transformed the historic Atlantic Coast Line Railroad depot into the “Collaboratory,” a high-tech hub for nonprofits, businesses, government organizations and the community to use in their work toward shaping the region’s future.
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BEST ONE-MAN SHOW: Broadway vet Jeffrey Binder wowed in Gulfshore Playhouse’s fall performance of An Iliad, a take on the ancient Greek epic poem, with many of Homer’s comments on humanity still holding true today.
BEST WEDDING GIFT REQUEST: Naples couple Katherine Parker and Dr. Ed Dean asked their 185 guests to make donations in goats in lieu of giving them gifts at their July nuptials. They have until June 16, 2019, to reach their goal of a “1,000-goat wedding,” with the knowledge that $50 enables the Villages in Partnership nonprofit to buy one goat for villagers in Malawi, Africa. As of midFebruary, they were up to 780. BEST AQUATIC HEROICS: James Fitzek, of Golden Gate Estates, and his family helped rescue three Cuban migrants off the coast of Key West in July. The family and friend Capt. Don Hiller of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office were heading back to shore after a day of boating when they spotted the migrants, whose own boat had exploded at sea, clinging to a piece of rubber. BEST REASON FOR BALDING: Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida CAO Armando Llechu and more than a dozen other influential individuals had their heads shaved in September by pediatric cancer patients, to promote Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
BEST SUPERSTAR APPEARANCE: The one and only Cher chose Hertz Arena to kick off her first tour in five years, in January. The sparkle was real. BEST SLICE OF PIE WE COULDN’T EAT: Broadway “it” girl Waitress, the uplifting musical about a small-town server and gifted pie maker, came to Artis—Naples in February. BEST TAKE ON AN ALREADY HOT TICKET: Florida Repertory Theatre did justice to August Wilson’s American drama Fences, on the heels of its huge success on both Broadway and the big screen starring Viola Davis and Denzel Washington. BEST SEE-IT-TO-BELIEVE-IT MOMENT: In November, Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW hosted the revolutionary In Dreams: Roy Orbison in Concert—The Hologram Tour. The name says it all. BEST BATTLE AGAINST BEAUTY CONTESTS: Naples resident Melissa Bazley launched krazykrops. com, a subscription delivery service of “ugly” but perfectly edible produce, to help reduce the rampant problem of food waste.
BEST ILLUSTRATED LOVE OF COMMUNITY: We were in awe of Juan Diaz’s impressively researched and designed proposal for a mural celebrating our area’s history, meant to grace the Gordon River bridge underpass. This in addition to several other works over the years making good on his advocacy for public art. BEST SURPRISE THANK-YOU: A group of moms were so appreciative of longtime Coastland Center mall carousel operator Mary Warder that they banded together to gift her $5,000, to help Warder buy a reliable car to drive to the three jobs she works to afford her daughter’s medical bills. A group of adoring kids presented “Miss Mary” with the giant check. BEST MELLOWING OF YELLOW: When Germain Arena became Hertz Arena, Estero residents balked at the new owners’ rendering of their plans for a garish, full-on Hertz yellow paint job on the venue’s exterior. What we ended up with was a subtler, more modern-looking approach with bands of yellow, gray and white (phew!), and we think it actually looks quite nice.
Best of Social Season Best celeb in a new context: Actor Dennis Quaid played guitar at the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples’ annual Night at the Museum. Best sloth: This guy, who made an appearance at the “Baby, It’s a Wild World” vintner dinner during the Naples Winter Wine Fest.
Best unveiling: The Naples Senior Center at JFCS debuted plans for a much-needed new facility at its Evening for Better Tomorrows event.
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From left: One More Cent by Cesar Aguilera; Innocence Interrupted by Juan Diaz; Retrospect by Danielle Branchaud.
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BEST ARTISTS AS ACTIVISTS In creative and thought-provoking ways, our arts community challenged us to come together and Unimaginable. Featuring the work of artists Cliff Evans of Texas and Gregory Green of Tampa, the exhibition explored the heightened threats of war and terrorism in the U.S. and around the world—and the psychological toll that these threats take on us. … Southwest Florida artists countered anti-immigrant rhetoric with the group exhibition Them: An Anthology of Migration at the Sidney & Berne Davis Arts Center. Featuring the work of a diverse and foreign-born cadre of artists—Mila Bridger, Mariapia Malerba, Danielle Branchaud, Reynier Llanes, Juan Diaz, Cesar Aguilera, Aimee Perez, Ndola Penzy and Brian Weaver—the collection celebrated the contributions and richness that immigrants add to America. … The Laboratory Theater of Florida took on the same issue, at press time working to stage The Immigration Project, an original play based on the lives of Southwest Florida immigrants. … Artist and Chico’s founder Marvin Gralnick hosted a three-day extravaganza of art and entertainment at his Fort Myers home designed to call attention to and raise money to combat the red tide and blue-green algae that devastated Southwest Florida waters last summer. A portion of the proceeds went to the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation’s research efforts. … A whopping 30 local artists banded together to form ART AID, an auction for which they each donated works to benefit Legal Aid Service of Collier County. ... The Alliance for the Arts’ CHANGE program hosted a two-day “What’s Your Mask?”
dogs from a partner shelter in South Carolina that was forced to evacuate.
and silicone form at the Pine Island home of 3-D artist Jeff Abbott.
BEST GIFTS TO OUR CHILDREN: Funding so many causes for kids in need here, the events of the Naples Winter Wine Festival raised just over $16 million in January, followed by nearly $2 million by the Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest in February.
BEST “DISCOVERY” OF THE SKUNK APE: No, there isn’t more questionable video evidence of Florida’s Bigfoot ambling through our swamps. But the creature was revealed—along with many other large critters and figures—to live in PVC, foam
BEST RETURN TO NORMAL: It had felt like forever since we were able to stroll the full length of our beloved Naples Pier postHurricane Irma, but the iconic landmark reopened six weeks ahead of schedule on July 30.
BEST GIFT FROM A CO-WORKER: After two years on a waiting list, Marianne McGiffin of Lehigh Acres received a new kidney in February—thanks to her friend and Cape Coral obstetrician/ gynecologist Dr. Melanie Altizer. The two met working
workshop that was dedicated to combining the arts and civil discourse to encourage frank conversations about identity and how we relate to each other. CHANGE (Communities Harnessing the Arts to Nurture and Grow Equity) is working to diversify the arts and make them more accessible to minority communities.
BEST EXAMPLE OF “DO UNTO OTHERS”: Speaking of hurricanes, a few Southwest Floridians who know their far-reaching effects all too well lent help to our neighbors affected by Hurricane Florence. Among them were Lee County emergency and Florida Power & Light crews, who traveled to the Carolinas to provide their services, and North Fort Myers’ Animal Refuge Center, which took in 19 cats and seven
BEST RETURN FROM THE BENCH: Orthopedic surgeons cut the recovery time of not one but two Alabama football players in half by using the minimally invasive “Knotless Syndesmosis TightRope Implant System” developed, manufactured and marketed by Arthrex. Some rival Florida team fans might have been a bit bummed, but we are proud that a Naples company helped those guys get back on the field.
COURTESY OF RESTORE FORT MYERS BEACH ARCHES (OPPOSITE)
think about the issues that divide us. Florida Gulf Coast University’s art galleries hosted Up Close and
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at Lee Health, where McGiffin was an office manager until her health prompted her to leave.
BEST HOPES FOR FORT MYERS BEACH: This “best” is in the eye of the beholder, we suppose, but the long-awaited, Buffett-inspired Margaritaville resort is underway near Times Square. We’ll salute developer TPI Hospitality Group for one best practice in particular; the company plans to build affordable housing nearby for employees. As the island speeds toward the future, some residents are making their very best effort to preserve the past. The “Restore the Arches” group has found the remnants of the iconic stone arches that had greeted beachgoers between 1924 and 1979 and hopes to rebuild them.
BEST “PAGE TURNERS”: Lisa Scottoline. Lesley Stahl. Maureen Johnson. Brad Meltzner. A. J. Tata. Between the Friends of Collier County Library’s Nick Linn Lecture Series and the Lee County Library System’s annual Southwest Florida Reading Festival, bookworms have plenty of great opportunities to meet and mingle with their favorite authors. BEST CROSSOVER: The Dalí Museum, and later Big Cypress Gallery, presented Clyde Butcher: Visions of Dalí’s Spain. The famed photographer traveled to the surrealist painter’s old stomping grounds in the Catalonia region to capture in black and white its unique topography and character. BEST OVERSATURATION: Estero residents, fear not! If you get hurt, sick or otherwise need medical services, your village is teeming with specialists ready to help. Lee Health opened its 163,000-squarefoot medical facility/wellness complex on a 13-acre campus at Coconut Point. Not to be outdone, NCH Healthcare System opened a freestanding emergency room, along with an outpatient surgery center, physician offices and imaging services, in a 41,000-squarefoot center just south of the
Estero/Bonita line. In other health care news: Lee Health topped off Gulf Coast Medical Center, adding three new floors with 216 patient rooms and 52 intensive care center rooms. … Healthcare Network of Southwest Florida broke ground on a new $15 million health care complex in East Naples. … And NCH Healthcare dropped its objections to the proposed Braden Hospital, which wants to serve Ave Maria and Immokalee. BEST AT JUMPING THROUGH HOOPS: For the first time ever, the Florida
SouthWestern State College men’s basketball team topped the NJCAA rankings. And the Florida Gulf Coast University women’s team had a stellar season, winning the ASUN tournament and making their sixth NCAA appearance in eight years. BEST DEVELOPMENT NEWS: ... For tourism and economic growth: Collier County is sprinting ahead with its $70 million sports complex in East Naples, featuring a 3,000-seat stadium and multiple fields. ... For the Florida panther: Collier Enterprises has withdrawn its application for 4,000-acre
town called Rural Lands West east of Golden Gate Estates and is considering a scaled-back village instead. There are still many questions, however, about the new proposal’s environmental impacts. BEST HOMECOMING: The Key Marco Cat, the graceful part-man, part-feline Calusa relic unearthed by archaeologist Frank Hamilton Cushing in 1896, has come home. The Smithsonian is loaning Marco Island Historical Society the cat and several other artifacts from that historic expedition for the next two years.
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Last summer’s red tide and blue-green algae outbreaks were the worst— decimating our marine life and turning freshwater in parts of Lee County into emerald-green goop—but they may have brought out the best in us. In response: The Community Foundation of Collier County spear-
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a red-tide relief effort, yielding nearly $100,000 for out-of-work fishing guides and others; the Harry Chapin Food Bank
set up mobile pantries across Lee and Collier coastal communities; Lee County launched a website listing incentives to patronize hurting businesses; individuals and small businesses held everything from pub crawls to donation drives to help. The crisis also brought together business organizations and scientists. It increased the standing of grassroots advocacy groups such as the
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Gov. Ron DeSantis with the Captains for Clean Water
And it may at last have captured Tallahassee’s attention. Gov. Ron DeSantis’ first act in office: an executive order creating a task force to address blue-green algae, adding a chief science officer to his cabinet and a pledging to speed up construction on a 17,000-acre reservoir near Lake Okeechobee, meant to reduce discharges of tainted freshwater down the Caloosahatchee.
BEST BIG-CAT LEGACY: In September we mourned the unexpected loss of Uno the Florida panther, who inspired us all during his four years at the Naples Zoo after surviving a blinding shotgun blast to the face. Zoo President and CEO Jack Mulvena called Uno “an ambassador for his species.”
COURTESY OF CAPTAINS FOR CLEAN WATER (LEFT); COURTESY OF THE NAPLES ZOO (2)
Captains for Clean Water and Calusa Waterkeeper.
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Groundhog Day: Ground-Owl Day. (His prediction was the opposite of Phil’s.) Cape Coral Mayor Joe Coviello declared Feb. 2 Ground-Owl Day following a new city ordinance that protects the threatened species. Best 120-second press: Viewers of CBS News Sunday Morning know that each week’s episode ends with a fan-favorite 2 minutes of enchanting, almost narration-free nature footage. The wilds of J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge were featured on July 22, 2018, and Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary made the cut for Dec. 2, 2018. Best baby bongo: Bakari, of course. The newborn bongo (a type of antelope, left) was born Jan. 23 at the Naples Zoo. In an online contest, voters chose the name Barkari, which means “one who will succeed” in Swahili. Best way to make grocery shopping fun: Lucky us. Lucky’s Market, the health-conscious grocer, has announced plans to open stores in Naples and Cape
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Here’s just a sample of Southwest Florida’s accolades over the last year. Best place to retire: Naples (Travel + Leisure, Livability.com, SmartAsset) Fastest-growing city in the U.S.: Fort Myers (WalletHub) Best housing market in the U.S.: Naples' Pine Ridge area (ATTOM Data Solutions) Fourth-best city for singles: Naples (SeniorAdvice.com) Ninth-best place to retire: Cape Coral (WalletHub)
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Best testament to our paradise: Even the great whites have finally caught on to our unbeatable vacation spot. Trackers from data-collecting organization OCEARCH registered not one but two pings (sorry, The Hunt for Red October fans) from great white sharks in the Gulf of Mexico on the same day, Jan. 28—from the 11-foot-6inch Nova and 9-foot-8-inch Cabot.
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Coral. We’ll toast to that news—quite literally, as the small chain allows patrons to drink while shopping. Best discovery: Cape Coral may be a relatively new city, but utility crews last summer stumbled upon something that offered a peek into a long, long, long ago past—a footlong bone fragment that archaeologists believe belonged to a mastodon or a wooly mammoth at least 2.5 million years ago. Best new spots for a getaway: Recently added nonstop flights at Southwest Florida International Airport and Punta Gorda Airport have expanded the map for where you can go directly from the Gulfshore: Las Vegas (Frontier); Phoenix (Frontier); Albany, New York (Allegiant, Frontier); Portland, Maine (Frontier); Syracuse, New York (Allegiant, Frontier); Madison, Wisconsin (Sun Country); and Appleton, Wisconsin (Allegiant). —Gulfshore Life staff
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INTO THE WOODS Dress by JohanaOrtiz; Saks Fifth Avenue, Waterside Shops. Boots; Hunter, hunterboots.com. Belt by Brunello Cucinelli; Marissa Collections. Heels (hanging); Max Mara, Waterside Shops. Bag; Z&L Europe, zleurope.com. Opposite: Girl’s dress; Gucci, Waterside Shops. Strapless dress by Loro Piana; Saks Fifth Avenue, Waterside Shops. Necklace; Cult Gaia, cultgaia.com.
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LO O K HE R E Jumpsuit; shirt; sweater; belt; Brunello Cucinelli, Marissa Collections. Hat by Eugenia Kim; Marissa Collections. Earrings; Cult Gaia, cultgaia.com. Opposite top: Top by C/MEO Collective; pants by Rails; Rouze. Earrings; Cult Gaia, cultgaia.com. Opposite bottom: Pants; top; Max Mara, Waterside Shops. Earrings; Fendi, Waterside Shops.
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ALL SMILES Left: Dress; girl’s cardigan; boy’s shorts; boy’s jacket; Burberry, burberry.com. Boy’s shirt by Ralph Lauren; Saks Fifth Avenue, Waterside Shops. Center: Boy’s pants; boy’s jacket; Ralph Lauren, Waterside Shops. Boy’s shirt; Tommy Hilfiger, tommy.com. Right: Skirt; top; Salvatore Ferragamo, Waterside Shops.
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PHOTO FINISH Opposite: Scarf; Brunello Cucinelli, Marissa Collections. Bag; Fendi, Waterside Shops. Locket; J.Crew, jcrew.com. Heels by Chloe; Marissa Collections. Boy’s shoes; Converse, converse.com.
Shot at Naples Botanical Garden MODEL Abigail Hall, Elite Models HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST Judy Jacomino, Agency Gerard FA SH I O N A SSIS TA N T Tarra Wood PH OTO A SSIS TA N T S Treva Blumenfeld Izzo, Federico Velez, Alain Almiñana MAY 2019 | GULFSHORE LIFE | 99
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By Jennifer Reed / Illustration By SINELAB
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Lately, it seems, references to cannabis have been as abundant in media reports as they are at frat parties. We’ll admit it: We at Gulfshore Life were pretty hazy on the ins and outs of medical marijuana, the CBD craze, the hoopla over hemp and the legality of it all. We set out on some research (not of the experiential type, for the record) on these and other marijuana matters. We give you our resulting “pot primer” to clear the air.
• What is CBD oil, and why is it all the rage?
Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is extracted from the flowers or leaves of the marijuana or hemp plant. Users (and manufacturers, of course) say it helps with everything from anxiety and depression to inflammation and chronic pain, cancer-related symptoms such as nausea, acne, cardiovascular health, digestive health, neurological disorders and easing the symptoms of drug withdrawals. The FDA—which has only signed off on its use for treating a rare seizure condition—says "prove it!" Can you get high off CBD? Not if it comes from low-THC sources. The marijuana plant has hundreds of naturally occurring compounds. The two best-known are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the stuff that interacts with the endocannabinoid receptors in your brain and gets you high; CBD triggers no such euphoria. CBD may, however, prompt the body’s endocannabinoid system to work better. Wait? Did you know we even had a cannabis-named system in the body? You are forgiven if you didn’t; scientists didn’t discover the first endocannabinoid receptor until the late 1980s. The endocannabinoid system helps the body maintain homeostasis by regulating body temperature, mood, sleep, appetite, digestion, pain, reproduction, inflammation, and sense of pleasure and reward, among other things. That’s why researchers of both the mainstream and the holistic variety are investigating CBD as a means of boosting the system to maximum efficiency. •
Is CBD legal? You’d think so, given the number of “CBD Oil Sold Here!” signs throughout Southwest Florida. Surprise! Those retailers were ahead of their time—and ahead of the law. As we wrote this piece, lawmakers in Tallahassee were debating legislation for an industrial hemp program, which would •
include the legalization and oversight of CBD. “Once a hemp bill is passed by the Florida Legislature, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture approves our state hemp program plan, CBD products will become legal for sale in Florida. A top priority for Commissioner Nikki Fried is ensuring that CBD products, when legal for sale, are fully tested, regulated and safe for consumption by Floridians,” Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Press Secretary Max Flugrath wrote us when we asked about CBD legality. (Alas, the legislature does not follow Gulfshore Life's print deadlines, so you'll have to see the online version of this story at gulfshorelife.com/marijuana to learn the outcome.) The existing statute allows for industrial hemp pilot projects yielding products containing 0.3 percent or less THC. Using that definition, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office told us that it will not scrutinize businesses selling CBD oil containing 0.3 percent or less THC, but if retailers are peddling products exceeding that amount, they’re fair game for an investigation. (The state appears to be giving law enforcement agencies some leeway in how they handle CBD, based on Flugrath’s email to us.) The Collier County Sheriff’s Office told us they are waiting on the legislature to clarify the matter and in the meantime will investigate retailers if they receive complaints about products that may not comply with the law. CBD oil derived from hemp won’t exceed the 0.3 percent THC (see the question below about hemp vs. marijuana). The problem is there’s no quality control mechanism ensuring consumers are getting what they think they’re getting. A University of Pennsylvania study, in fact, found that 70 percent of cannabidiol products sold online are mislabeled and that some 26 percent of those may contain higher THC amounts than the user believes. Even if Florida writes laws fully sanctioning CBD use, the feds are still frowning upon the stuff. The FDA a few months ago put out a
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Marijuana (left) grows bushy and lower to the ground compared to the more reedlike hemp (right).
strongly worded statement saying that products claiming medicinal benefit must go through the agency’s drug-approval process before they are marketed in the U.S. Talk about mixed messages! • So, there’s a difference between the hemp plant and the mar-
ijuana plant? Yes! The two come from the same family, Cannabis sativa, but they’re fourth cousins at best. The hemp plant, which grows tall and stocky like bamboo, has mere trace amounts of the high-inducing THC and has been cultivated around the world for thousands of years. But isn’t hemp illegal in the U.S.? Not anymore. Just before Christmas, President Trump signed the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (aka the “Farm Bill”), legalizing hemp (with regulations) and prompting farmers—including those in citrus-blighted Florida—to give the crop some serious consideration. This miracle-of-a-plant yields fibers for clothing and for paper; seeds for use in food products (no, not pot brownies, shame on you!); and biofuel. The University of Florida has launched a pilot project testing the feasibility of growing hemp in various regions of the state. A newly appointed state director of cannabis is charged •
with, among other things, helping develop a hemp industry. And, as discussed, the legalization of hemp is opening the door to an even bigger CBD market.
• Let’s talk about medical marijuana. How many pot-smoking Floridians are out there now? Whoa, hold on. We're guessing relatively few are smoking it, because smoking was illegal—even for medical marijuana cardholders—until March 18, when Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 182 into law. Other methods of taking medical marijuana include ointments, pills, edibles and vapors. As of March, 197,107 Floridians had active medical marijuana cards.
How do you qualify? As defined by statute, there are 10 official diseases that can get you a card: cancer, epilepsy, glaucoma, HIV, AIDS, post-traumatic stress disorder, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis (MS). But, let’s face it. If you don't meet those criteria, you may slide into provisions like these: terminal illness; “medical conditions of the same kind or class as or comparable to those above”; “chronic nonmalignant pain caused by a qualifying medical condition or that originates from a qualifying medical condition and persists beyond the usual course of that qualifying medical condition.” Disclaimer: Those last two come straight from the state. We’ll leave it to you to find someone to translate bureaucrat-ese and figure out if your condition qualifies. •
So, which doctors can sign off on marijuana usage? Not your primary care physician or specialist—unless he or she has gotten state-certified to do so. And many of them have. You can find •
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At Curaleaf in Fort Myers, dispensary associates Patrick Paul and Amy Zebrook help patients select products that best suit their needs and prescriptions.
a full list of certified doctors at the Florida Office of Medical Marijuana Use under the state Department of Health. If your doc’s not in the game, you can visit one of the dozen or so marijuana clinics in Lee and Collier—places with names like Dr. Green Relief, Liberate, and Caring Cannabis Center. For a fee, usually around $200 (fully refundable if you don’t qualify!), a clinic doctor will assess you and your health record to see if you meet the state criteria for medical marijuana. We haven’t gone undercover (hmmm, maybe a follow-up story?), but we do wonder about the rigors of the review process. Here are some of the statements we found prominently displayed on clinic websites: “We’re here to support patients in getting the help they deserve as quickly as possible.” “(You) will be evaluated by a compassionate and well-qualified doctor that understands the benefits of recommending medical marijuana for your condition.” “Have we become numb to the warnings on drug commercials? ... One patient at a time, we are committed to changing the world for the better and ending the tragic history of legalized chemical poisoning.” In the first three months of the year, the number of Floridians with active medical marijuana cards jumped by 32,715. • Once you get a card, where do you get the actual marijuana?
What about Collier County dispensaries? Sorry, Collier residents. Buckle up and head north (or send in your delivery order to Lee treatment centers). State lawmakers gave counties and municipalities two options for dealing with dispensaries: ban ’em outright or treat ’em like pharmacies. That means dispensaries could be placed in areas zoned for pharmacies if local goverments amend their zoning ordinances to allow for them. The Collier County Commission thus far has not gotten the four of five votes needed to change the land-use policies. A major hang-up: State law doesn’t allow local governments to impose any additional regulations on dispensaries. It’s either all or nothing. The City of Naples and Village of Estero also don’t permit the treatment centers. •
Can’t I just skip the whole dispensary thing and grow my own? No. You may have a medical marijuana card and a green thumb, •
but it’s illegal to grow your own. • Is it true the state is putting the kibosh on new dispensaries?
When the law was written, it capped the number of treatment centers a licensed medical marijuana business could operate at 25. The cap expands by five for every 100,000 new patients. (Currently, each company can operate 35.) Each company must spread its dispensaries across five regions. Trulieve, one of the nation’s biggest medical marijuana firms, has challenged the cap. In early April, a settlement with the state allowed the company to expand to 49 dispensaries. Is recreational marijuana simply a matter of time? Gulfshore Life, sadly, is not in possession of a crystal ball. So far, 10 states have fully legalized marijuana (in 23, it is partially legalized). Now, if you ask John Morgan, the personal injury attorney behind the medical marijuana amendment, if Florida is going the way of California, Nevada, Vermont and their free-for-all brethren, his •
STEPHEN HAYFORD (2)
You must visit a dispensary, also known as a marijuana treatment center. In Southwest Florida, two opened right away in Fort Myers: Curaleaf and Trulieve. More recently, three dispensaries announced their intention to open in Bonita Springs—Liberty Health Sciences, Curaleaf and Surterra Wellness—now that the city has ended its moratorium on dispensaries. The cities of Cape Coral and Marco Island allow them, but as of March, no company had applied to open up shop in either municipality.
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answer is probably, “Heck, yeah.” Last June, he tweeted: “I’m going to look at starting a fund where we all can donate to get full marijuana legalization on the ballot in 2020.” Let’s just say we would be more surprised if he didn’t pull it off than if he did. In the meantime, House Bill 1117 and Senate Bill 1780 would legalize marijuana for adult use. We aren’t holding our breath on those. Hemp aside, is marijuana the next big investment boom? Well, if we were entrepreneurs, we’d certainly be paying attention! Marijuana sales in Colorado, where the drug is fully legal, topped $6 billion between 2014 and 2018, according to the state’s Department of Revenue. In 2017, Colorado residents and visitors consumed 208 metric tons of marijuana, according to a state-commissioned study by the Marijuana Policy Group. In Nevada, sales exceeded state expectations by 30 percent in the first year of full legalization. That state saw $425 million in recreational sales, another $105 million in medical marijuana and marijuana goods and accessories, and $70 million in tax revenue (alcohol sales, by way of comparison, yielded $49 million). A word of caution, however: California, which had expected to cash in on marijuana taxes, has cut its projected profits by 50 percent to $355 million for the first six months of 2019, the Associated Press reports. Go figure—Californians have figured out it's a heck of a lot cheaper to buy weed on the black market than on the heavily taxed legal one. Industry groups have wasted no time infiltrating the Sunshine State. You can go on to the site potguide.com/florida and find a seminar on how to get into the biz. An organization called Career Extracts in March hosted “Florida’s Largest Cannabis Industry Career Fair” in Miami, recruiting people for jobs in “cultivation, extraction, processing, budtenders, marketing, accounting, delivery, trimmers, product development, formulation scientists, organic chemists and so much more.” The state is ready to cash in, too. According to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, medical marijuana alone is expected to have $1.6 billion in economic impact and create more jobs than the manufacturing sector by 2020. •
With so many states legalizing pot, can we consider it safe to use? Safety is in the eye of the beholder, we suppose, and if you dig around the internet you’ll find whatever it is you want to find is affirming or negating its medicinal properties. We can tell you a few things for sure: 1. Cannabis in any form does not have FDA approval to treat anything unless you: suffer from certain types of seizures; have AIDS •
and are suffering from “wasting syndrome”; or are suffering from chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. There are just four FDA-approved drugs derived from marijuana or synthetic THC. 2. If you want to play “pick your poison,” you might decide that pot is a safer alternative to opioids. Recent medical studies have found that in states where medical marijuana is permitted, doctors are writing fewer prescriptions for opioids, presumably because they’re encouraging patients to try marijuana before pain pills. Research also shows that in these states, fewer people are being admitted to the hospital for opioid disorders and, in some, the opioid overdose death rate is falling. 3. Marijuana is addictive. About 30 percent of those using it may have some degree of marijuana use disorder, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Teens who use are four to seven times more likely to develop a marijuana use disorder than adults. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine did a major study on marijuana safety. Much remains unknown, but the organization did offer clarity on a number of questions: • Yes, it helps reduce chronic pain in adults. • Yes, it helps alleviate muscle spasms in multiple sclerosis patients. • Yes, it helps reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. • No! You should not use marijuana and drive, due to the increased risk of accidents. • No, kids should not be getting into the stuff: Calls to the poison control center for accidental exposure for children younger than 6 were nearly three times higher in states where marijuana is legal. • No, smoking pot does not seem to drive up users’ rates of lung, head and neck cancers the way tobacco smoking does—but it does appear to increase rates of chronic bronchitis, cough and phlegm problems if smoked regularly. • Yes, it does appear to increase the risk of developing schizophrenia, other psychoses, social anxiety and, to a lesser extent, depression. Heavy cannabis users with bipolar disorder appear to have more pronounced symptoms. • And, yes, that hazy feeling is real. The researchers say learning, memory and attention are all impaired after immediate cannabis use. Has medical marijuana caused an increase in driving-under-the-influence violations? It’s a little too soon to tell, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office tells us. Collier County Sheriff hasn’t seen an uptick. Neither agency tracks DUI offenses by the substance impairing the driver, so drawing a line between the two issues may be difficult. •
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T O M A M A, WITH LOVE The author writes a letter to the devoted mother who left her too soon— w i t h a P. S. t o t w o d i f f e r e n t w o m e n w h o later showed up in her life with maternal love and support.
B Y K A R E N T. B A R T L E T T PHOTOGRAPHY BY CRAIG HILDEBRAND
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DEAR MAMA,
It was that cake. The one you spent the morning baking and decorating while I was at school giving my campaign speech for vice president of the elementary school student body. I’m sure you’d have preferred a nap, after listening to me practice that speech about 20 times the night before, and, for a whole week before that, picking scores of deadly straight pins out of the living room rug from my homemade campaign badge project: rocket-shaped cutouts with the slogan, “Be Darin’—Vote for Karen.” I knew it was a good speech, because you told me so. Actually, you told me this every time I brought you something that I wrote, probably starting with crayon scribbling at age 2. You believed in me, so I believed in me. I delivered that speech with lots of expression, sprinkled with the funny lines that you had laughed at every single time I practiced it. Unfortunately, nobody beyond the front row could hear a word of it. I could fault the acoustics, or my inability to project. It’s more satisfying to blame my fifth-grade boyfriend, Jimmy Dykes, whose super-fun twin brother was my opponent and whose campaign badge Jimmy was honor-bound to wear. Bottom line: When all the shoeboxes of handwritten votes were dumped out and counted, it was a landslide for Jimmy’s brother. I felt really bad. Not so much because I lost, but because I’d have to go home and disappoint my biggest fan. You. I know you were disappointed “for” me, Mama, but here’s the thing: Not a flicker of disappointment “in” me crossed your face. In your eyes, I was still the same funny, smart, excellent all-around person that I ever was. And then, after supper, out came that big chocolate cake with my name in big letters. Beneath it: “Win or lose, we’re so proud of you.” Back then, the word “lose” didn’t pack the life-shattering psychological punch that it does today. School elections, like softball and Monopoly games, were won or lost. There was always next time. Anyway, Mama, I wish I could tell you now how I treasure the memory of that day, when you stirred all that wisdom and love, along with two eggs, half a cup of oil, and Betty Crocker cake mix into your big white bowl, and later
spread the cooled layers thick with real homemade frosting. Most likely for you it was just another moment of mothering, scrunched into the background of the next 13 years when there were three more kids to parent, comfort and celebrate. When you died so unexpectedly and so young, you and I were just stepping across that sweet, invisible threshold that merges the parent-child relationship into the deeper, more intimate place shared by adult women who are also mother and daughter. As a grownup-in-training, newly married and not yet a mother, I wasn’t finished needing you. I didn’t get to talk through every new fork in the road and earth-shattering crisis, or share my small triumphs and heart-bursting joys. I didn’t get to present you with the grandchildren who would have adored you. You would have strummed your guitar and taught them silly songs like you did for the neighborhood kids when I was growing up. You would have taken them on hikes like you did with our scout troop when you were the leader. Maybe, like all those years ago, you’d have been the most popular substitute teacher in their fourth-grade class. (“Oh, boy! We’re getting Mrs. L!”). And you definitely would have shown up for their every ceremony, award and performance. You didn’t get to meet the granddaughter who shares not just many of your physical characteristics, but other qualities, like her connection to the mountains you loved so much, her kindness and—it seems to me—a spiritual connection with the wisdom of the ages. They say things like this skip a generation, and I guess it’s true. Now she’s close to the age you were when you baked that cake of love, and she’s the wisest woman I know. And isn’t it interesting? For my last birthday, she made—from scratch—a magazine cover-worthy, melt-in-the-mouth chocolate cake. No, wait. To be specific, it was a magazine cover-worthy, melt-in-themouth, raw vegan chocolate ganache torte, garnished with whipped cream and fresh raspberries. And you know the big white bowl? It was part of a Sunbeam Mixmaster that I think your mother gave you as a wedding gift. You used it for 23 years of birthday and celebration cakes. The Mixmaster is long gone, Mama, Bartlett holds a photo of her but this simple milk glass bowl, mother, Geraldine infused with all those memories, is Jeffords Lowendeeply woven into the mosaic of my kopf. children’s lives. You should see the beautiful things this granddaughter of yours makes with it. You would be Shot at the glowing with pride. In fact, I know Edison and Ford Winter Estates. you are.
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P.S.
Thanks for the Angels
Mary was a scientist, a philosopher and a seeker. Roberta danced, painted, sang, mothered and grandmothered her way through 99 years (and counting). These two women had nothing in common, except for one thing: They mysteriously showed up in my life when you couldn’t be here.
Mary
It’s the first day in my first home, a cute bungalow with light-filled rooms and a fireplace. I’m curled up in front of the hearth, watching the flames and wishing you could have shared this moment, when the doorbell rings. On the threshold stands a tiny woman at least a decade older than you’d have been, with a bouquet of freshly cut roses. “I’m Mary Watson, from next door,” she says shyly. “Doc (that’s my husband) grows roses. Please come anytime you like and pick more. I just wanted to say we’re glad you’re our new neighbors. I don’t have children of my own, so it’s lovely to have young people right next door.” And just like that, Mama, you were kind of there after all. For the next few years, Mary mothered me, with pots of herbal tea and homemade soup when I had a cold, and deep conversations about life and love and purpose and joy. She listened as I sorted out the pain of a divorce, and later, she wore the corsage you’d have worn at my subsequent wedding. A year after she died, my first child, your grandson, was born. Coincidentally, or not, he turned out to be, like Mary, a scientist, a philosopher and a seeker.
Roberta
Last Saturday, Roberta Lynch and I had lunch at the beach to celebrate her 99th birthday. We could have chosen a low table on the restaurant deck, but Roberta wanted to feel the beach air and watch for dolphins, so she hopped up onto one of those high bar stools at the railing. That’s what I said: hopped. Sometimes I think she forgets that she can’t do stuff like that at 99, so she does. She also goes to exercise classes, paints in the art studio and sings in a choral group. She also juggles an impressive social schedule, so I must book a date with her well in advance. Why do I crave these dates? It’s her eyes, Mama. When she looks at me, I see that she knows me. I know I can tell her anything. She hears without judgment and advises when asked. She hurts when I hurt and celebrates my successes, and she worries when I work too many hours. But here’s the thing: She wants to read every single word I write, and when I bring her the latest bit of writing, she couldn’t beam any brighter if it were wrapped in a turquoise Tiffany & Co. box with a white satin ribbon. She loves me, and through her love I feel your presence. And I realize that you’ve never really left at all. Happy Mother’s Day, Mama, Mary and Roberta. Love you always, Karen
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F E E L I N G C A B B A G E
T H E K E Y
V I B E
R o b We l l s I I I s h o w s o f f t h e g l o r i e s o f t h e i s l a n d his family has owned for more than 40 years.
B y ARTIS HENDERSON / P h o t o g r a p h y b y ZACH STOVALL
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O
n a cool morning in early spring, Rob Wells III is at the helm of his Avenger 24 slowly motoring through the narrow channel that leads away from Tarpon Lodge. This close to shore, the air smells like mangroves at low tide and is filled with the sound of gulls. Wells points the bow of the boat toward Cabbage Key, a route he knows well. His parents bought the island in 1976, and Wells and his brother, Ken, grew up there. The family has run the business for the last 43 years, with the addition of Tarpon Lodge in 1999, and today they are some of the Gulfshore’s most notable purveyors of paradise. The narrow channel away from the lodge ends, and Wells opens the throttle. He is 45, cleanshaven and trim, with light-colored hair that curls loosely around his neck. His skin is fair, though he often forgets to wear sunscreen, and he’s dressed in a white cotton button-down cuffed at the elbows, pressed khaki pants and a pair of clean deck shoes. He looks more like an urban financier on vacation than a man who spent his early years on an island without electricity or telephones. Which is fitting. Unlike his brother, who always planned to work in the family business, Wells had his sights on the New York financial industry. But each time he came to Florida for a visit and left again, he missed the island a little more, until finally he decided to shrug off the big city and come back to Cabbage Key. “Now New York seems like a distant memory,” he says. Today Wells is married with two daughters, and though he lives in Fort Myers, much of his time is spent on the island. The waters of Pine Island Sound shade to green the farther the Avenger gets from shore, and a light breeze ripples across the surface. A tour boat out of nearby Boca Grande cruises past, and a pod of dolphins jumps in its wake—three, four, five, six, then seven of them. Buoys from blue crab traps bob in the bay. Wells was 3 years old when his parents, who were originally from North Carolina, moved to Cabbage Key. Both worked in education, his father recruiting students for a university in High Point, North Carolina, and his mother as a third-grade teacher. When they discovered Southwest Florida, they fell in love with the area. “My mom and dad were surprised that there were so many parts of Florida that had so much more development along the coast than this area did. So they started looking for something to buy, and they found this opportunity and decided to take a chance.” The business—a restaurant, an inn and a collection of cottages for rent—had been in operation since 1944, when Chicago artist and advertising exec Larry Stults bought the property with his wife, Jane. Prior to that, the island was a winter retreat for Massachusetts couple Alan and Gratia Rinehart. Alan was the son of Mary Roberts Rinehart, one of the most famous American writers of the early 1900s, and Gratia was heiress to the Corning Glass Works fortune. The original Rinehart house was completed in 1937, but the couple divorced suddenly in 1938. The island, then known as Palmetto Key, continued to be occupied as a marine research station for
Rob Wells III (opposite), whose family has owned Cabbage Key since 1976, grew up on the island from the age of 3. Among the animals also calling the island home are the gopher tortoise (above) and the anhinga (left). 112 | GULFSHORE LIFE | MAY 2019
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H E T O O F F
D E C I D E D S H R U G T H E
C I T Y C O M E T O
B I G
A N D B A C K
C A B B A G E K E Y .
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From opposite left: A resident mallard takes a bath outside the island restaurant, the Old House; visitors to the bath house will find some humor; the walls of the Old House are covered with an estimated $70,000 worth of dollar bills; a tour boat drops visitors at the island.
several years then was abandoned until the Stults purchased the key in 1944. The Stultses ran the Cabbage Key business until 1969, then the island went through two more owners before the Wells family purchased it in 1976. Wells still recalls a time on the island without electricity or phones, only a diesel generator and a ship-to-shore radio. “I remember as a young kid that it was the quietness that was alarming,” he says. “As long as you heard the drone of the generator, you knew everything was OK.” In the early 1980s, when neighboring Useppa Island was developed, the Lee County Electric Co-op finally ran cables to both Useppa and Cabbage Key. “That was a big change,” Wells says. “It helped us modernize. Well, not really ‘modernize,’ because it looks much the same, but it helped us with the power infrastructure and to have a little more normalcy out on the island.” Although “normalcy” for island living might still seem like a scene out of the Swiss Family Robinson to the rest of us. Wells had to take a boat in order to get to school on the mainland, and he remembers
his brother motoring his own 15-foot Boston Whaler to Pine Island in order to catch the bus to middle school. “Little boats like that were like your bike to get around your neighborhood,” he says. “Since we had no other kids on Cabbage Key, the ‘neighborhood’ was the islands that went as far south as Captiva.” Wells and Ken missed school on heavy fog days or when the wind was too strong to make the passage. “The wind chill is so much cooler on the water,” he says. “I remember kids making fun of me for wearing this big old puffy jacket, and I’d say, ‘You didn’t just take a boat in.’” The storms that ravaged the island often blew through with a fierce intensity, stronger and more dangerous than what the mainland experienced. When a storm was coming, Wells and his family, plus the staff members who lived on Cabbage Key, gathered around the VHF radio. “I can remember sitting at the bar, everything put up for the storm, and we’d be in there listening to the details of the report, of where the storm was, what the intensity was. That voice on the radio—I wouldn’t say it haunts me, but every now and then I’ll hear
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fied with what he sees, he opens the throttle again and heads toward the island of Punta Blanca, where a one-room schoolhouse offered education through the eighth grade to the scattered children of the islands from 1925 to 1949. He skirts Cayo Costa with its white sand beaches, and from the boat Wells can make out the seaweed at the wrack line, stands of silver buttonwood, an osprey nest in the limbs of an Australian pine and a snowy egret gliding in at the water’s edge. Up ahead, he points out a sand spit that sits ankle-deep in saltwater, visible only at low tide. “These shoals come and go,” he says. “Sometimes they’re full-on beaches, and sometimes they’re little spits. I love it in early winter when the water is really low, and you can see the bird population spread out across them.” The sands of the sound move based on the current, the tides and storms, and even someone like Wells, who knows these waters intimately, can be waylaid by an unanticipated sandbar. “One year can be a lot different than another,” he says. “You have to watch the buoys as you come in and out of these passes.”
something like it and it brings me back to that early childhood.” Growing up on an island and relying on a boat for transportation, Wells has been imprinted with a need always to check the weather. He’s especially mindful of fog, the kind that rolls in before dawn and cuts visibility down to nothing. When he plans his morning staff and supply runs, he watches the weather report for signs of it, and sometimes the supply boats are delayed until after the fog has burned off. “These are the kinds of things that happen in an island business that don’t always happen at roadside locations,” he says. There are various ways a boat can approach Cabbage Key, though that small detail—the boat—is essential. The island is accessible only by water. Charters and private watercraft run out of nearby marinas, as do ferries like the King Fisher out of Punta Gorda, Island Girl from Pine Island and the boats of Captiva Cruises from Captiva. Wells and his staff also run boats to and from Cabbage Key, but those are mostly for ferrying supplies and workers, though about half the staff lives on the island. Wells likes to point out that though it may look as if he and his family are in the hospitality business, they’re really in the logistics business. “There’s a lot involved with running a restaurant and bar on an island where we have to bring in all the supplies and haul away all the trash,” he says. The Avenger heads west and north, to the pass between Useppa and Mondongo islands. The water here is a deep opaque green, more jade than emerald, except on the southern side where the sun reflects off the surface and turns it the color of pewter. Wells slows the boat to look across the sound at a bird rookery, and the waves make a gentle slush, slush, slush as they rock against the hull. Satis-
A trio of sandpipers wings by overhead, and a sailboat in the distance unfurls its sails to the wind. Wells rounds the southern tip of Cayo Costa and heads, finally, to Cabbage Key. He’s taken the long way, he knows, but it’s worth it for a little extra time on the water. As he pulls up to the dock, he calls out to the charter boat captains and says hello to the dock master. On the hill above—an old Calusa midden mound—sits the Rinehart building, now the main structure at Cabbage Key, where the restaurant and bar are located. People spill out onto the porch and down the slopes of the hill, ogling the gopher tortoises and pausing for photos beside gumbo limbos. Cabbage Key has welcomed countless visitors over the years—Wells
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From opposite left: Boats line the island's main dock; among the Old House's offerings are peel-and-eat shrimp, stone crab claws and salmon; two patrons share a drink at the Old House; several of the island's cottages for rent overlook the water.
won’t hazard a guess how many—and some of the most famous include John F. Kennedy Jr., former Treasury Secretary James Baker and Jimmy Buffett. Wells points out an old Key lime tree that’s sending out the first blooms of the new season and stops to say a few words to his father, Rob Wells Jr., who’s holding court beside a golf cart. “My dad has been here so long that he knows a lot of people,” Wells says. “They like to group together and talk.” His mother, Phyllis, is at the family house, which sits beside the inn and restaurant property. His parents still spend most of their time on Cabbage Key. Depending on the time of year, 15 to 20 of the island’s 25 employees live on the island. Combined with Wells’ parents, they make up the entire island population. Wells leads the way inside the restaurant where he greets staff members, overnight guests and boaters just in for the day. The inside of
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the restaurant is darker than the sunlit patio, but it’s possible to see that dollar bills are everywhere, taped to the walls and ceiling, about $70,000 worth, Wells estimates. Nearly $20,000 falls off each year, which the family donates to local charities. Wells takes a seat at a table on the back patio and orders a plate of peel-and-eat shrimp and a dish of smoked salmon, which Cabbage Key smokes itself. A pair of ginormous Cuban laurels, planted more than a hundred years ago, soar skyward on the other side of the screen. Pink bromeliads are tucked into the clefts of their branches. Inside, there’s an old tarpon skin-mount on one wall that’s gone bronze with age, and fans turn lazily overhead, stirring the dollar bills. Wells looks thoroughly at home here, even if he still carries a touch of that New York City sheen. “We consider ourselves stewards of the island,” he says, “and I feel fortunate to be able to oversee things for a moment in time. I love seeing the historic parts of this island preserved for future generations and hope that after I’m gone somebody else has the opportunity to continue with this vision and to be lucky enough to work in an environment that I’ve been lucky enough to work in.” Other families owned Cabbage Key before the Wellses, of course, and it’s possible that someday the island will pass outside the family. But for this moment, the island’s legacy falls squarely on their shoulders as they strive to bring a little bit of paradise to those who pass through.
4/8/19 2:48 PM
Inside
the as
mind
we
of
learn
local how
he
composer c r e at e s
JASON BAHR a
symphony
BY Cary Barbor / PHOTOGRAPHY BY Brian Tietz
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S a a u c t a b u s , q u a a t , n o s , P. G r a t i c i a m o r u s . S e n d i u r n u m c o n d u c t o i a S e n t e m u s a d h u c t u s t e rd i c i e m m a n u m a u d e s t e a t u r.
By First Last / Photography By First Last
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f the Myers-Briggs personality types, there is one that’s nicknamed “The Composer.” It’s someone who is energized by time spent alone and has an innate knack for creating aesthetically pleasing experiences. The only drama this type of person would engage in, it would seem, is writing a stirring crescendo or creating a stunning chord. The description fits Jason Bahr pretty well. With braces and light facial stubble, he looks much younger than his 46 years. He’s a friendly, cerebral guy, who spends most of his time composing his own work or teaching at Florida Gulf Coast University, where he is an assistant professor of music and composition. But there was that one Sunday morning in the spring of 2017 when paramedics took him out of the First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs, midperformance. “It was very dramatic and didn’t need to be,” he says later, sitting at the kitchen island in his Fort Myers home, laughing. A water dispenser for his cats, Ray and Cho-cho, bubbles nearby. He lives here with his wife, Rebecca, who’s nearly completed her doctorate in pharmacy. In March of 2017, Bahr was working feverishly to finish a symphony he was writing—his second. It was set to premiere in April of that year. Just 44 then and healthy, he’d never paid his health much mind. But as he worked away on this long and complicated piece, he knew something wasn’t right. He just felt terrible, for one, and he, always naturally thin, was gaining weight at an alarming rate. He ignored the symptoms and kept working until he just couldn’t ignore them anymore and went to see his doctor. The doctor sent him straight to the cardiologist, who shocked him with this line: “It’s unbelievable that you’re alive.” It turned out that there was no wall between the upper chambers of Bahr’s heart (the atria), meaning that he essentially had three chambers rather than the usual four. This meant that deoxygenated blood was coming back from circulation and mixing with the freshly oxygenated blood in his heart. The filtering system that works so beautifully in most of us was not working for him. More critically, he was at risk for blood clots that can form in the atrium and go out into the bloodstream to cause a stroke. What he had is called an atrial septal defect. Not only are these rare, but the one Bahr had, at 4.5 centimeters, was about twice the
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PLAYING WITH HEART Bahr
plays at home (opposite top) and at First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs (opposite bottom). He keeps a card depicting St. Cecilia, patron saint of musicians, at his home piano (below) to remind him of his mother, who gifted it to him. His mother passed—on St. Cecilia's Day—in 2017, the same year Bahr underwent multiple heart surgeries.
4/9/19 11:42 AM
WRITE ON Bahr
sifts through some of his compositions (opposite) and plays at his church (above).
size of the largest ones noted in the medical literature. Ironically for a composer, this defect interfered with the rhythm of the heart. His doctors implored him to have surgery right away. But he had this premiere coming up. A symphony! He pushed the surgery off. And he made it all the way to the dress rehearsal of the work on a Saturday—the night before the premiere. All went well. On Sunday morning, he sang his part in church as usual, as the bass section leader. But again, he knew something wasn’t right. “I could feel that my heart had gone into an irregular rhythm,” he says. “On the last hymn of the first service that morning, my heart syncopated [went off rhythm] and I fainted.” He hit his head. Someone called an ambulance. And that’s when the ambulance arrived, and the paramedics spirited him down the aisle. So much for no drama. “I watched the premiere on Facebook Live from my hospital bed,” he says. The family Bahr grew up in was not particularly
musical. “Our family didn’t go to symphony concerts or things like that,” he says. “My exposure to classical music was what was in movies or cartoons.” He was one of four kids in Kansas City, Kansas. But his mother did make sure that he and his siblings took piano lessons. “My mom had this Victorian ideal that all little kids should be playing at the piano. So, we had a grandfather clock and a piano, and we should be there playing.” Bahr thinks this is where his call to write music started. But not for the reason you might think. “I wasn’t a great pianist,” he says. “So, I would change around the music to make it easier to play, or maybe just to put the notes where I though they should go.” After he was whisked to the hospital that Sunday morning, his heart was restarted through a procedure called cardioversion. His heart was then back in rhythm, and a month later surgeons opened his chest cavity and implanted the missing wall in his heart. They coaxed it to grow natural tissue, to maintain the separation. That very painful procedure required a revision, so he had another round of open-heart surgery, plus seemingly endless procedures and surgeries and hospital stays. At last, though, it all worked. Today he has a heart that functions mostly normally, with occasional bouts of arrhythmia. He can do everything the rest of us can, including go to the gym regularly. When Bahr sits down to write a piece of music, it is typically in the studio he has set up in his single-story home. Pushed up against a lime-green wall is the upright piano he played as a child, which he’s brought with him through six moves around the country, through his education and various jobs. Against the other wall is an electronic keyboard. He’s a fan of old-school technique. “I start at the piano, with pencil and paper,” as opposed to computerized tools, he says. “I really like feeling the pencil and feeling the paper. There’s a certain flexibility you have there that you don’t have when you use software. I find that with my students, the software can limit their thinking. The measure has four beats in it, so they think they have to fill it out with four beats, and not make it ¾ time. Or there are all these instruments listed on the
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page and they think they need to give everybody something to do.” At the piano, he says, he is free to think about his own ideas and how he wants to express them. “My colleagues or my students might compose something in Finale [a musical notation software], and if they don’t like it, they delete it and it’s just gone. It’s different from having sketched it out by hand and thought through what works and what doesn’t. What is it not doing that it should be doing, and how can I rewrite it? To me, this writing by hand is something that’s really important to my creative process.” When he began thinking of his symphony, he started with an idea. It was back in 2004, and, he says, “I remember just feeling sick of the Iraq War. I found some Walt Whitman texts that gave the message that we need to be more thoughtful about war, and that it is very painful for the people affected. It’s normally my practice to study a text and to see what it suggests musically in terms of its form and musical ideas, and then let that influence musical ideas.” He based the piece on that and some other writing, weaving martial themes through the first four movements. He wanted the fifth and final movement to be hopeful and illustrate a “new day, when we don’t have war,” he says. So, he decided to pull in a choir of very young voices. He enlisted the City of Palms Youth Choir from Fort Myers. And he took on the challenges of writing for children, which we in the audience may never consider. “Children have smaller lungs and a restricted range,” he explains, “so you have to give them shorter musical phrases.” And how about composing for instruments? There are all sorts of challenges in writing for them, too. For example, Bahr says, a flute and violin may play the same notes in the same register, but still their parts are different. The flute depends on breathing; the violin, on the bow. The violin can play two notes at a time, while flute doesn’t normally do that. Flute sounds loud high and weaker in lower range. And on and on. “So, you need to take all those aspects into account as you’re writing,” he says. Now that he’s been at it a couple of decades, how does he think his work has changed? “I have a better perspective on it all,” he says. “I mean, I had a 2017
that was horrible. My chest was sawed open twice. I lost my mom. My dad got sick. Whatever difficulties I may have in the other areas of my life just aren’t going to compare.” “And I believe I’ve become much more technically proficient over the years,” he says. “I don’t have to think about what the range of the oboe is, for example. I’m more efficient at using my time to be creative. And I like to think my music is more thoughtful and has more depth to it. I want to have greater cohesion and formal consistency. I can use ideas that will make the piece more profound. I think that’s all from just growing up as a person, as well as having more experience as a performing musician and becoming more familiar with music.” “And I have fun composing. One thing that I really enjoy is that composers get to experience music in slow motion. If you’re a listener or a performer, music has a tempo and it’s measured out. That’s a great experience and I love that. But as a composer, you can really contemplate a single measure, and you can do that for hours if you want to. And I think that is just fabulous.”
FREE FORM
Bahr often goes barefoot when playing at home (below).
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1380 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers
239.278.4422 • BroadwayPalm.com
4/8/19 3:54 PM
DWBI 3
Moments like this one are defining moments. Because from this point on I understood that she was… undefinable. And that’s why this all just works so well.
FOR THE FEW LIKE YOU (239) 344-7455 | DwayneBergmann.com
DWBI 33882 Best of GSL 2019 Print Ad FP.indd 1 GL_MAY19_126-184_BESTOFADV.indd 137
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Finalists
LEE Winner
Sun Splash Family Waterpark Finalist
Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa WEEKEND GETAWAY (HOTEL/ RESORT)
JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club LEE Winner
Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa Finalists
COLLIER Winner
Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa
Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina Sundial Beach Resort & Spa
AUTOMOTIVE AUTO COLLISION CENTER
Finalists
Annie's Collision Center Cape Collision Center
LEE Winner
LEE Winner
Finalists
Finalists
Terry Wynter Auto Service Center
COLLIER Winner
AUTO SERVICE AND REPAIR CENTER
Finalists
COLLIER Winner
CAR DEALERSHIP
Finalists
COLLIER Winner
Supreme Collision
DeVoe Collision Center Doug Brann Paint and Body Repair LEE Winner
Caliber Collision
Lexpert Automotive
Anchor Rode AutoCare Chet’s Courtesy Automotive
Ranger Motorsports Savage 4x4
Scanlon Lexus of Fort Myers
AutoNation Toyota Fort Myers Galloway Family of Dealerships
FOOD & DRINK
Germain Lexus of Naples
ASIAN
Finalists
COLLIER Winner
DeVoe Cadillac
AZN Asian Cuisine
Mercedes-Benz of Bonita Springs
THANK YOU! Independent PK3-12 College Prep School
Proud to represent the BEST of Southwest Florida www.canterburyfortmyers.org
8141 College Parkway • Fort Myers, FL 33919 • 239.481.4323
138 | gulfshore life
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Naples Original Cuban Restaurant F
ernandez The Bull opened their kitchen for the first time in 1985 armed with a concept of bringing great tasting, homemade Cuban food to Naples. Recipes were and still are straight from the kitchen of Raquel Fernandez. She, along with most of her family, immigrated to America during the Mariel Boat Lift of 1980 from Cardenas, Cuba. Luis began his career in the restaurant business very young and by the time he had met and married Raquel in 1983 he was determined to share his knowledge and her cooking with the rest of us. Naples embraced Fernandez The Bull with open arms. Now, the younger generation of the family is lending a hand to help Luis continue his dream of bringing the best tasting Cuban Food to a second location and to a new generation of people that grew up coming to Fernandez The Bull as children. While you may see a few new faces around, rest assured that the recipes have not changed. We are so thankful for your continued support and look forward to seeing you again soon!
Happy Hour
Stephanie & Lazaro Figue niece & nephew with founderoa, Raquel & Luis Fernandezrs
DAILY 3:00-6:00 PM
Traditional Mojito’s, Domestic Beer, House Wines, Sangria by the Glass and Frozen Favorites!
New Lunch Specials and Featured Dishes Open 7 Days A Week Live Music Voted A Family Friendly Restaurant
North
1201 Piper Blvd. #10 Naples, FL 34110
(239) 254-9855
Midtown
3375 Pine Ridge Rd. Unit 101 Naples, FL 34109
(239) 653-9097
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Finalists
21 Spices by Chef Asif I Love Curry
Finalists
Finalists
Finalists
Seasons 52
Straight from New York Bagels
Epiphany Gluten Free Bakery
Texas Tony's
LEE Winner
Einstein Bros. Bagels
LEE Winner
LEE Winner
Ginger Bistro
The Bagel Factory
Finalists
Bangkok Thai Restaurant
Angelic Desserts
LEE Winner
Norman Love Confections
Finalists
Straight from New York Bagels
Mr. Mee's
COLLIER Winner
Brooklyn Dough with a Hole
LadyCakes Bakery
No.3 Craft Brews & Beer Bar
LEE Winner
Mission BBQ
Rib City
Texas Tony's BARTENDER (ESTABLISHMENT)
BAKERY (NON-CHAIN)
BARBECUE
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
Norman Love Confections
Michelbob's Championship Ribs & Steaks
Finalists
Woody's Waterside Island Rum & Grille
LEE Winner
No.3 Craft Brews & Beer Bar Finalists
Fort Myers Brewing Company Palm City Brewing
BEER LIST BLOODY MARY COLLIER Winner
Bone Hook Brewing Co.
Vergina
Naples Beach Brewery
Finalists
Gather
Finalists
A Little Cookie Shoppe
Stuff a Bagel
BAGEL
Finalists
Black Eyed Pig BBQ
COLLIER Winner
The Dock at Crayton Cove
Finalists
Bar Tulia
Brass Tap
WINE. FOOD. AMBIANCE. NAPLES.
All things loved by passionate wine collectors and connoisseurs.
naples wine collection is your concierge retailer! we specialize in exclusive wine selections with highly allocated wines, cult wines, large formats, packaged liquor and unique gift baskets, instore and home wine tastings, private and corporate events and educational wine classes
fun and casual unique dining experience in a wine cave atmosphere specializing in small appetizers and tapas menu items that compliment your choice of fine wines, spirits and specialty drinks with a wide variety from our Naples wine collection.
Naples Wine Collection & The Cave v The Shoppes at Vanderbilt 2343 Vanderbilt Beach Rd. #602/604 v Naples, Florida 34109 v 239.513.0095 v www.napleswinecollection.com
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EXPERIENCE TRUE LUXURY AT THE ALL-NEW MERCEDES-BENZ OF BONITA SPRINGS of Bonita Springs
A TRUE FIRST CLASS EXPERIENCE. INSPIRED BY YOU. BUILT FOR YOU.
Proud Winner of
BONITA BEACH RD D 41 R OL D
TheMercedes-Benz
BEST OF THE BEST
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of Bonita Springs
of Bonita Springs 14610 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, FL 34110
239.260.9593 | mbbonitasprings.com
75
IMMOKALEE RD
41
LIVINGSTON RD
Dealer Recognition Award 2017 ∙ 2018
75
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41
4/8/19 3:54 PM
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Finalists
The Continental Tavern on the Bay LEE Winner
PierSide Grill and Famous Blowfish Bar Finalists
Cork Soakers Deck & Wine Bar Matanzas on the Bay BOAT ACCESS (RESTAURANT) COLLIER Winner
Snook Inn
Finalists
The Dock at Crayton Cove Just Beachy Burgers LEE Winner
Matanzas on the Bay Finalists
Tarpon Lodge & Restaurant Woody's Waterside Island Bar & Grill BREAKFAST COLLIER Winner
Jane's on 3rd Garden Cafe
Finalists
EJ's Bayfront Cafe Skillets LEE Winner
Riptide Brewing Company LEE Winner
Artisan Eatery
Momentum Brewhouse
Finalists
Finalists
House of Omelets
Palm City
Crave Restaurant
Millennial Brewing
The French LEE Winner
Artisan Eatery
Bullig Coffee & Bites Skinny Dogz Brunchery
BREWERY
BRUNCH
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
Finalists
Naples Beach Brewery
Jane’s on 3rd Garden Cafe Finalists
Baleen
LEE Winner
Artisan Eatery
Finalists
BURGER (NON-CHAIN)
Bone Hook Brewing Co.
Jimmy P's Burgers & More
Brooks Gourmet Burgers & Dogs
Finalists
Fat Katz Sports Bistro Nevermind Awesome Bar & Eatery BUSINESS LUNCH COLLIER Winner
Ocean Prime
Finalists
Harold's Place Chickee Bar and Grill
BECOME A CONSERVANCY MEMBER AND EXPLORE THE NATURE CENTER FREE ALL YEAR! At the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, we believe the more we can connect people with nature, the more willing they are to protect it. Visit our world-class Nature Center today. Join us for our live NEW Nature Center programs as we explore the natural environments of Southwest Florida and meet native wildlife up close. 10:00am-4:00pm Monday-Saturday
Closed Sundays (May-December)
1495 Smith Preserve Way I Naples, FL 34102 I 239.262.0304 I www.conservancy.org
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HIGH STYLE FASHION at LOW PRICES
C O M P A N Y
S T O R E
Play at our newest attractions: The Rock Climbing FunWalls and Amazing Things 5-D Motion Theater. Party Packages available at MiromarOutlets.com/play.
OVER
140 OUTLE T S TORES & RESTA U RA NT S ®
F U P T O 70% O F F R E TA IL P R IC E S GIFT CARDS MAKE THE
Perfect Gift
Voted the BEST FACTORY OUTLET MALL, BEST SHOPPING EXPERIENCE and BEST PLACE TO BUY SHOES in Southwest Florida I-75, Exit 123, Just North of Naples • MiromarOutlets.com • (239) 948-3766 • Copyright © 2019, Miromar Development Corporation. Miromar Outlets is a registered service mark of Miromar Development Corporation. AN19-0929
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OPA! OPA! Thank you for your vote! Join us next year
St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church 7100 Airport Road North, Naples
Live Music Authentic Greek Food Dancing and More! 144 | GULFSHORE LIFE
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Finalists
The Capital Grille Shula’s Steak House LEE Winner
DeRomo’s Gourmet Market & Restaurant Finalists
Artisan Eatery The Saucy Meatball BUTCHER SHOP COLLIER Winner
Jimmy P’s
Finalists
Oakes Farms Market Pepper’s LEE Winner
Mario's Italian Meat Market Finalists
DeRomo’s Gourmet Market & Restaurant Paesano's Italian Fresh Market
Sage Events Two Guys Kitchen & Catering LEE Winner
DeRomo’s Gourmet Market & Restaurant Finalists
Artichoke & Company Black Salt Culinary
CATERER COLLIER Winner
Finalists
CHOCOLATE SHOP
Noela Chocolate & Confections
COLLIER Winner
COCKTAIL MENU
Norman Love Confections Finalists
Ocean Prime
Olde Naples Chocolate
Finalists
Kilwins
Bar Tulia Sails Restaurant
LEE Winner
Norman Love Confections Finalists
Crave Culinaire
COLLIER Winner
Gulf Coast Fudge Co.
LEE Winner
COFFEE SHOP COLLIER Winner
Kunjani Craft Coffee & Gallery Finalists
Bad Ass Coffee Hello Coffee LEE Winner
Trackside Donuts & Cafe
Nice Guys Pizza and Beer
Finalists
Finalists
Bullig Coffee & Bites
Bennett's Fresh Roast
Downtown Social House Gather
WE ARE GENUINELY HONORED BY YOUR SUPPORT! Owner Francis J. Cuomo and the entire DeRomo’s Gourmet Market & Restaurant family would like to thank our loyal patrons for their votes in Gulfshore Life’s “Best of the Gulfshore 2019” awards. Because of you, we are a finalist in SIX categories! Best Italian Restaurant • Best Specialty Market Best Business Lunch • Best Butcher Shop Best Happy Hour • Best Caterer Molto grazie a tutti! We hope you visit again soon!
Genuinely Italian. Absolutely extraordinary.
Market Hours Mon. – Sat. 7 am – 8 pm Sun. 7 am – 6 pm (Includes Fresh Italian Bakery & Coffee) Restaurant Hours Lunch: Mon. – Sun. 11 am – 3 pm Dinner: Mon. – Sat. 3 pm – 10 pm Sun. 3 pm – 9 pm
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Host Your Next Event With Us!
Promenade at Bonita Bay DeRomos.com | 239.325.3583 ext.4 26811 South Bay Dr., Suites 140 & 148 Bonita Springs, FL 34134
4/8/19 3:55 PM
COOL DOWN BEFORE SUMMER HEATS UP WITH
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(239) 919-PURA (7872) 350 5th Ave. S., Suite 203, Naples Across the street from The French and above Arabesque of Naples
GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE MULTIPLE AWARD-WINNING MED SPA
PuraVidaNaples.com
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Again this year the insightful readers of Gulfshore Life have chosen Eagle Creek a finalist for Best Golf Course and Best Tennis Facility.
big thanks!
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We share this honor again
with our owners.
Thank you for helping to make Royal Shell the best vacation company in Gulfshore Life’s 2019
readers’ poll. By listing your property in our vacation rental program, whether in Florida or North Carolina, you’ve helped us provide one-of-a-kind luxury accommodations and create
unforgettable experiences for our guests. It’s truly a collaborative effort. If you have not yet explored our rental program, contact us at your convenience to discover all the benefits.
Full guest services including housekeeping and maintenance
$48 million of rental income in 2018
24/7 customer service
239.232.8560 • RoyalShell.com Florida Locations: Bonita Springs/Estero, Cape Coral, Captiva Island, Fort Myers, Naples/Marco Island, Ocala and Sanibel Island North Carolina Locations: Cashiers, Highlands and Sapphire Valley/Lake Toxaway
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WOW! YOU MADE US A FINALIST! SUBLIME STYLE
COLD TREAT (FROZEN YOGURT, GELATO, ICE CREAM) COLLIER Winner
Norman Love Confections Finalists
Rita’s Italian Ice Royal Scoop
FANTASTIC FLAVORS
LEE Winner
one-of-a-kind destinations. all tastes. all tasteful. all here! PromenadeShops.com 26795–26851 South Bay Drive Bonita Springs, Florida 34134
COLLIER Winner
Peace Love & Little Donuts
Coasting Donuts
Trackside Donuts & Cafe Finalists
Bennett's Fresh Roast Nuts 4 Donuts
LEE Winner
COLLIER Winner
Angelina's Ristorante
The Local LEE Winner
Buckingham Farms
Artisan Eatery Rosy Tomorrows Heritage Farm FRENCH
Sails Restaurant
Finalists
7th Avenue Social
Finalists
FAMILYFRIENDLY
Azure
over 25
DOUGHNUTS (NON-CHAIN)
LEE Winner
Bleu Provence
Shop, dine & experience
Finalists
Made Ice Cream Zirilli's Chilly Treats
Finalists
We’re honored to be a finalist in Gulfshore Life’s “Best of the Gulfshore 2019” awards for Best Shopping District in Lee County! And we owe it all to you!
The Bubble Room
Finalists
Ocean Prime
COLLIER Winner
Food & Thought
Azure
Dojo Doughnuts & Coffee
COLLIER Winner
FARM-TO-TABLE
Finalists
Finalists
DATE NIGHT
Thank you for shopping, dining, enjoying and voting!
Artisan Eatery
Norman Love Confections
Love Boat Home
PLAYFUL PURSUITS
LEE Winner
Pinchers Finalists
Beach Box Cafe
Tarpon Lodge & Restaurant
Just Beachy Burgers & More
DESSERT (RESTAURANT ONLY)
LEE Winner
COLLIER Winner
Finalists
COLLIER Winner
Chez Boet Finalists
Bleu Provence The French LEE Winner
Azure
Finalists
Ma Petite Creperie My Sweet Art GENERAL EXCELLENCE
COLLIER
Pinchers
Winner
Ocean Prime Finalists
Ocean Prime Finalists
Bleu Provence The Cheesecake Factory
RC Otter’s Woody's Waterside Island Rum & Grille
Bleu Provence Sails Restaurant LEE Winner
Artisan Eatery
150 | GULFSHORE LIFE
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At Your Service! 5111 Tamiami Trail North I Naples, FL 34103 I 239.430.4900 I HiltonNaples.com I ShulasNaples.com
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Finalists
Pinchers
HIBACHI
Azure
HEALTHY/ ORGANIC
COLLIER
Angelina’s Ristorante
HAPPY HOUR
COLLIER Winner
Seasons 52 Finalists
Blue Martini Lounge Ocean Prime LEE Winner
DeRomo’s Gourmet Market & Restaurant Finalists
Matanzas on the Bay
Winner
DaRuMa Restaurant
COLLIER Winner
KEY LIME PIE (NON-CHAIN)
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
Finalists
Brio Tuscan Grille
Finalists
Maguro Sushi & Steak House
Finalists
The Local
Hibachi of Japan
True Food Kitchen
UhmazeBowls
Osaka Japanese Steakhouse
Finalists
Finalists
Winner
Artisan Eatery Chef Brooke’s Natural Cafe
DaRuMa Restaurant
LEE Winner
DeRomo’s Gourmet Market & Restaurant
Deep Lagoon Seafood Finalists
Angelic Desserts Tony’s Off Third LEE Winner
Keylime Bistro Finalists
Finalists
Angelina’s Ristorante
Deep Lagoon Seafood
Salty Papas Shrimp House LATE-NIGHT DINING COLLIER Winner
Bar Tulia Finalists
Rusty’s Raw Bar & Grill Sails Restaurant LEE Winner
Nice Guys Pizza and Beer
Delicious Food and Waterfront Views
RiverwalkTinCity.com
Dine with us today!
Campiello Osteria Tulia
LEE Winner
LEE
The Saucy Meatball
ITALIAN
Food & Thought
Fresh Fare, Open Air & Nautical Flair
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Kumo Japanese Steakhouse
DockCraytonCove.com 1200 Fifth Ave South • Tin City 239.263.2734
Dine with us today!
845 12th Ave South • City Dock 239.263.9940
4/8/19 3:55 PM
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Finalists
Nevermind Awesome Bar & Eatery Rusty's Raw Bar and Grill
Finalists
Rusty's Raw Bar & Grill
MEDITERRANEAN
NEW RESTAURANT
PIZZA (NON-CHAIN)
Cabos Cantina
MARTINI
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
COLLIER Winner
LIVE MUSIC
COLLIER Winner
Finalists
Aji Limon Peruvian Restaurant
LATIN AMERICAN COLLIER Winner
Fernández the Bull Finalists
Agave
Rumba Cuban Cafe LEE Winner
El Gaucho Inca Restaurant
Moura Bistro
LowBrow Pizza & Beer
The Crust Pizza Finalists
Blue Martini Lounge
Kareem's Lebanese Kitchen
Finalists
LowBrow Pizza & Beer
South Street
Finalists
Mediterrano
Sails Restaurant
Finalists
Sails Restaurant
LEE Winner
LEE Winner
New York Pizza & Pasta
The Continental
LEE Winner
COLLIER Winner
Beach Box Cafe
LEE Winner
Ocean Prime
Fresh Catch Bistro
Zorba's Mediterranean Grille & Bar
Artisan Eatery Finalists
Finalists
Society
Finalists
Bonefish Grill
Kabab Village Mediterranean Restaurant
Finalists
The Firestone Skybar & Martini Bar
Nomiki's Plakka Greek Restaurant
Matanzas on the Bay
Dorona
Bullig Coffee & Bites Skinny Dogz Brunchery
LEE Winner
Nice Guys Pizza and Beer Finalists
Downtown House of Pizza Fine Folk Pizza
Here’s to making today a
Fifth Third better® For some, going above and beyond doesn’t require a special reason. It’s a way of life. We understand, because that’s what we believe our banking customers deserve from us. It’s even built into our name. That’s why we’re proud to be named a finalist of The Best of the Gulfshore Awards. Thanks to you, today’s a Fifth Third better.®
53.com Member FDIC
GULFSHORE LIFE | 153
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For nominating us again.
eG
an
Th
www.ffibank.com (877)-763-0244
k
Best Banking Facility olden R ule B
The New Forest Country Club
$10 Million Club Renovation Now Open
Social. Serene. Causal. Contemporary. Enjoy a friendly & relaxed country club lifestyle.
Call Shannon Mattes for details and to arrange a tour at 239-482-1310
BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP - Two Championship Golf Courses with ample access to tee times (no point system) - Active Men’s and Ladies’ 18 and 9 hole Golf Associations along with 40+ golf groups - 6 Hydro Tennis Courts, active Round Robins and league Play - 4 Pickleball Courts and 2 Bocce Courts with active member league play - $10 million Clubhouse Renovation to be completed in early 2019 - New Fitness Center and Aerobics Studio with over 12 classes a week - Expanded outdoor casual dining - New Grille and Dining Room - New expanded kitchen - Updated Clubhouse interiors with contemporary design - Full Social Calendar OUR MEMBERSHIPS WILL FIT YOU TO A TEE! Family Golf Individual Golf Executive Golf Limited Golf Social & Tennis Memberships
6100 Club Boulevard | South Fort Myers, FL | 239-482-8378 | www.theforestcc.com Residency Not Required
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You Belong Here 2018 Winner
2019 Finalist
VPK4-8 | SCHEDULE A TOUR | VISIT | CONNECT
WWW.FMCS-FL.ORG | (239) 939-4642
REGISTER FOR THE 2019-2020 SCHOOL YEAR TODAY!
GULFSHORE LIFE | 155
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Fun Happens!
Full Bar Laser Tag Top Quality Dining
Bowling & Game Zones WWW.HEADPINZ.COM | NAPLES | FT. MYERS | CAPE CORAL
M A K I N G H I S T O R Y P E R S O NA L EVERY FACE TELLS A STORY. Every story, a personal journey. The Holocaust Museum & Education Center in Naples makes history personal every day. Since 2001, over 200,000 students, teachers and visitors from across SWFL, the U.S. and more than 45 countries have been impacted by our Education Outreach efforts. Erik Kellar Photography
Open year round, closed Mondays & major U.S. holidays. For more information on exhibits, events and programs, visit our website: HolocaustMuseumSWFL.org or call 239-263-9200. Lorie Mayer, Holocaust Survivor
Join us at our new location in Summer 2019! Visit our website for Grand Opening details!
&
Janet G. and Harvey D. Cohen Education Center
4760 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 7 • Naples, Florida 34103 • www.HolocaustMuseumSWFL.org • 239.263.9200 2018
January -April Tuesday to Friday, 12:30 pm - 5:00 Saturday and Sunday 1:00 - 4:00 pm May - December Tuesday to Sunday, 1:00-4:00 pm
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For three years in a row...
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Thank You “ Best Brows ” FOR VOTING US AS A
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PLACE TO HANG WITH THE LOCALS COLLIER Winner
Beach Box Cafe Finalists
LowBrow Pizza & Beer Rusty's Raw Bar & Grill LEE Winner
Finalists
PierSide Grill and Famous Blowfish Bar Rusty's Raw Bar and Grill PLACE TO WATCH A GAME COLLIER Winner
Miller's Ale House Finalists
No.3 Craft Brews & Beer Bar
Bokampers Sports Bar & Grill Pelican Larry's Raw Bar & Grill
LEE Winner
Duffy's Sports Grill
LEE Winner
Woody's Waterside Island Bar & Grill
Finalists
Rondao's Pizzeria & Sports Bar
Finalists
Stevie Tomato's
Fort Myers Brewing Company
Bullig Coffee & Bites
POOCH-FRIENDLY COLLIER Winner
Beach Box Cafe
LEE Winner
Finalists
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Whole Foods Market
The Lean Box Mario’s Meat Market and Deli
The Veranda
Angelina’s Ristorante The Firestone Grill Room, Martini Bar & Skybar
PRIVATE ROOM PREMADE MEAL COLLIER Winner
Finalists
Yana Eats
The Continental
Finalists
Campiello
LEE Winner
Sage Catering Wynn's Market
SANDWICH SHOP COLLIER Winner
Ocean Prime
COLLIER Winner
Larry's Lunchbox
Finalists
Sails Restaurant Shula’s Steak House
Finalists
Pastrami Dan's Slicers Hoagies
474 guestrooms and suites 83,000 sq. feet of flexible indoor/outdoor spaces seven on property dining options and bars three resort pools full service indoor-outdoor spa village a shaded boardwalk or open-air tram ride through a protected mangrove estuary transports guests to miles of nearby white sand beaches exclusive access to championship golf 15 har tru clay tennis courts fully equipped fitness center + wellness programming locals are welcome to enjoy the spa at naples grande or dine at mantra, rhodes end, the catch of the pelican
(877) 517-4340
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www.naplesgrande.com 4/8/19 3:55 PM
Nominated for
Best Sightseeing Tour - and -
Best day cruise welcome aboard ... we’re newly renovated!
(port of naples marina)
is nominated for
Best Boat Rental
www.NaplesPrincessCruises.com Portocallmarina.com
Thank You
for nominating us for the best sightseeing
tour, best day cruise & best boat rental!
we are honored to be a part of collier county!
550 Port-O-Call Way, Naples
◆ 239.649.2275
where lifelong learning begins!
Give your child a bright beginning to their educational journey at Naples’ premiere early childhood center. Our award-winning school provides a creative and nurturing environment for children to learn through multi-sensory exploration. Cultivating a love of the arts and sciences through language, gardening, yoga and more. Our holistic program is the ultimate destination to inspire your child’s creativity and guide them on the path to academic success.
239-263-2620 www.NaplesPreschoolOfTheArts.com GL_MAY19_126-184_BESTOFADV.indd 159
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LEE Winner
Finalists
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Artisan Eatery
Blanc
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Matanzas on the Bay
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Deep Lagoon Seafood
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The Fresh Market
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Seasons 52
Connors Steak & Seafood
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Gourmet Market & Restaurant
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SEAFOOD COLLIER Winner
SPECIAL OCCASION
Restaurant The Veranda
Ada's Natural Market DeRomo’s
Tarpon Lodge &
Chops City Grill
THANK YOU
LOVE
for Voting for
Thank you to our customers who voted for Norman Love Confections in the BEST of the Gulfshore again this year! We’re honored to be recognized in the categories of BEST Bakery, BEST Chocolate Shop and BEST Cold Treat in Lee and Collier Counties!
THE
BEST OF the
VISIT US ONLINE WWW.NormanLoveConfections.com NAPLES, TAMIAMI TRAIL
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FORT MYERS, DANIELS
FORT MYERS, MCGREGOR
GULFSHORE
2017
FORT MYERS, NAPLES WHOLE FOODS
THE
BEST OF the
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2016
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GULFSHORE
2018
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4/8/19 3:55 PM
JOIN US ON THE BEACH Extras included with every stay: daily breakfast buffet for 2, daily beach chair and umbrella rental, kayak and SUP board rental, Pink Shell Resort beach bag, 2 in-suite bottles of Fiji water, and complimentary valet and self-parking.
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JET BOAT THRILL RIDES
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PRIVATE GROUP CHARTERS
THANK YOU FOR YOUR VOTE! WE ARE HONORED TO BE NOMINATED FOR THE FOURTH YEAR IN A ROW!
BOOK ONLINE @ PureFL.com
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EST 1921
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Thank You!
Gulfshore Life readers have selected Tarpon Lodge as one of the BEST in 6 categories! • Boat Access Restaurant • Date Night • Sunset View • Hotel/Resort • Waterfront Restaurant • Special Occasion Restaurant
COME BY CAR OR BOAT: N 26º 39’ 562” W 82º 9’ 180” tarponlodge.com 13771 Waterfront Dr. Bokeelia, FL 239-283-3999
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A C UL INA RY EX P ERIENC E MATC HED O NLY BY THE VI E W INSPIRATIONAL BEACHFRONT AMBIENCE AT ITS BEST
Angelina’s would like to thank the readers of Gulfshore Life Magazine for nominating us once again as the ‘Best of’ the best in Southwest Florida. It’s been our distinct honor to server all our guests for the past 10 years.
24041 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 239.390.3187 | AngelinasofBonitaSprings.com
LAPLAYARESORT.COM | 239.598.5707 | NAPLES, FL
166 | GULFSHORE LIFE
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THE
BEST OF the
GULFSHORE
2017
Thank you for voting Bishop Verot Catholic High School the best high school in southwest Florida!
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Summer classes begin
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HEALTH & BEAUTY
WINE BAR
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Thank you for voting us Best of the Gulfshore
hair ∙ nails ∙ skin care ∙ massage ∙ waxing contemporary health center
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Nursery • Florist • Landscaping • Water Gardening • Pottery
Bringing Color, Vibrance and Smiles to Southwest Florida for over 35 Years
Thank you for Voting! We are proud to be in the Gulfshore Life Best of 2019 for “Best Med Spa” in Lee County and “Best Day Spa” in Collier County Call 239.333.1450 or visit AssuageCenters.com Offices in Ft. Myers & Naples
Experience Fleming’s Steakhouse Enjoy classic prime steaks, world-class wines and be prepared for Chef Mike to wow you with his new, locally inspired menu. There’s something for everyone at the dinner table. Make your reservation today.
Come Experience the Difference at DRIFTWOOD
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THE
BEST OF the
GULFSHORE
2017
2016 THE
BEST OF the
GULFSHORE
2016
lfshore Lif
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Private Lunches Available for Small or Large Parties Catering Available
Gulfcoast Inn
2555 Tamiami Tr. N., Naples
Home to 3 local favorite restaurants!
Fujiyama Steakhouse of Japan
239.261.4332 ■ NaplesFujiyama.com
Fujiyama’s Club Sushi
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Harold’s Place Poolside Bar & Grill
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harperhausinteriors.com
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M & M’s Cafe at Tin City 1200 5th Ave S., Suite 122, Naples, FL 34102 Royal Scoop at Berkshire Place 7335 Radio Rd., Suite 104, Naples, FL 34104 170 | GULFSHORE LIFE
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Facts are Facts: Naples Historical Society’s Historic Palm Cottage™ Wins Best Historical Site Again! A Few More Facts... Trip Advisor ratings show the Society is #2 in the museum category and #11 out of everything to do in Naples!
Best Marina THANK YOU FOR VOTING US
(239) 530-5134
|
The Blue Zones Project of SWFL recently endorsed the Society’s Walking Tours of the Naples Historic District! Get the facts at Naples Historical Society… the Central Voice of Naples History.
NaplesHistoricalSociety.org 239-261-8164
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Honored to be a
FINALIST in the Gulfshore Life
Best Of Readership Poll
Best Sunset View Best Place to Hang with Locals Best Bloody Mary Best Waterfront Restaurant
A SIGNATURE ARNOLD PALMER PRIVATE GOLF COURSE COMMUNITY WWW.NAPLESLAKESFL.COM
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172 | GULFSHORE LIFE
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photo credit: Nocera Photographic
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Local
Bank. Commitment. Decisions.
As SWFL’s largest community bank, we offer all the same services and benefits of a big box bank – but better with fee-free products, like business and platinum personal checking accounts. In 16 years, we’ve expanded to seven full-service locations to serve your banking needs, all while remaining devoted to serving the community we all love.
Thank you for voting for us, Southwest Florida!
RUTH MESSMER FLORIST
Locally Owned and Operated
(239) 936-2131
239-274-6200 | www.SanCapBank.com
3366 Cleveland Ave Fort Myers, FL. 33901
RUTHMESSMERFLORIST.COM
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Thank you for Experiencing the
Spada Effect
& voting us
Best of the Gulfshore
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Open 7 days a week
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Celebrating 23 Years of Success & Customer Satisfaction
CAR CARE YOU CAN TRUST “Service so dependable, I stand behind it with my name.”
Whether it’s your business fleet or family car, Terry Wynter Auto Service Center has provided service you can trust since 1996.
Thank you for nominating us! (239) 939-2500
www.TerryWynterAuto.com 3811 Fowler Street, Fort Myers • Just north of Fowler & Winkler TFad_GSL_v2.pdf
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TrueFashionistas
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INTERIORS | TRENDS | REAL ESTATE
HOM E + DE SIGN
COOL YET COMFY You might think this chair looks a bit painful, but you would be wrong. Learn more— and see the artful piece in red—in Favorite Things.
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MIRROR, MIRROR A customcreated liveedge mirror makes a gorgeous focal point upon entering this beautiful four-bedroom, 12th-floor Kalea Bay condo.
MAKING IT MODERN AND A LITTLE EDGY In styling this brand-new condo in Naples’ Kalea Bay, the owners love its resort-like feel, where they can look out and see their boat at the dock. By Michael Korb
Let’s not kid ourselves; new is always better. And Debbie and Bob Blinstrub came to that conclusion early on in their search for a Naples home. The charming Michigan-based couple quickly decided to purchase a condo in Kalea Bay, take a blank slate and completely make it their own from day one. “We had been coming to Naples for quite a while.” Debbie says. “Weekend jaunts and then weeklong vacations, two weeks, then monthly visits, and we knew we wanted to be down here and we started looking. But quite honestly, when we looked at existing
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p. 000
PHOTOGR APHY BY FIRST L A ST
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P H O T O G R A P H Y BY J O H N S C I A R R I N O , G I OVA N N I P H O T O G R A P H Y
TITLE GOES HERE An tala itide consupi octampotin aucta confiri, et gra me catus patereo, nortabente con spicavoctor ius.
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HOME + DESIGN S T Y L I S H
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buildings, and what we would pay for them and then pay to make them our own—we knew we would have headaches.” “That was part of the drive for a new facility,” Bob adds. “Living here is truthfully like living in a resort. Plus, I can look out and see our boat at the dock (next door at Pelican Isle Yacht Club), and it made it the total package. And then how Wendy was able to interpret (the space) for us.” He’s referring to interior designer Wendy Berry of W Design. The Blinstrubs have two other homes in Michigan and prefer that each of their properties has an entirely different feel, and yet still conveys their taste and style. “Water and nature,” Debbie says. “We love woods. And what she has done with the different varieties of wood and applications of wood is just stunning. We walked in and fell in love.”
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DESIGNED TO PERFECTION Wendy Berry of W Designs utilized creative detailing to add depth and texture to spaces such as the living room (opposite), study (left) and dining room (below).
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Guests feel the same way. Stepping off the elevator with its dark cocoa gray door, visitors are deposited into a clean, organic foyer with a dark wood-paneled ceiling above and European white oak underfoot. The line of sight directs the eye 30 feet across the unit to a stunning floor-to-ceiling custom mirror wrapped in live-edge wood. In between is a spectacular focal wall covered in a full-length Gregorius Pineo wall covering called “Benin” from the company’s Tribal collection that begs to be touched. “They like things a little edgy and modern,” Berry says. “Nothing too coastal.” The open-concept 3,800-square-foot, four-bedroom, four-bathroom, 12th-floor unit balances clean lines with organic finishes and bright whites with more natural tones. “When guests are over, we have to show them every room, because each room is truly unique,” Bob says. “It’s a four-bedroom unit, but we did our fourth bedroom as a den with a built-in office and a convertible sofa. It is the most comfortable place for me to be. I was a workaholic and kind of continue that tradition.”
TO DREAM... Dark tongue-ingroove wood and beam detail on the ceiling create the illusion of extra height. Coupled with soft light tones below and stunning natural views, the master suite is an oasis. And who wouldn’t love the wonderful tile work in the master bath (above)?
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Naples’ Widest Selection of Fine Art
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WALK THIS WAY The condo’s foyer features a dramatic entrance, with dark wood overhead, bright-white shiplap on the walls and warm European white oak on the floor.
ON
FO
Un But the master bedroom is a terrific example of how quality design can trick the eye and create the illusion of height. Though the ceilings are just 9 feet, Berry added dark walnut tongue-and-groove under an X-patterned beam design. Coupled with a neutral grass cloth wall cover and picturesque views of the Gulf of Mexico, you have a tranquil retreat that’s the envy of most. “There isn’t a day that we don’t walk in and go ‘Wow,’” Debbie says. “It’s beyond our expectation.” New and improved, indeed.
I N T E R I O R D E S I G N E R : Wendy Berry, W Design
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HOME + DESIGN FAV O R I T E
T H I N G S
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FAVORITE THINGS A mix of trends and one-of-a-kind designs that can make stylish statements in your home By Melanie Pagan
BETTER IN FEATHERS Inspired by the regal bird, this peacock seat is a modern take on the traditional wicker chair, with a dramatic build and iridescent green and blues. It’s a lounge chair that stands out among the flock, for sure. Available at Clive Daniel Home. Inquire within for pricing. SNEAKY SUPPORT The Yoda chair doesn’t sacrifice comfort for style. Tapping the natural tension of the rattan vine, the Yoda supports your back and offers comfort concealed in the seeming randomness of the material. The rattan grows from the seat like tall grass in a field on a summer’s day, bringing the outdoors in. Available at Clive Daniel Home. Inquire within for pricing.
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A STROKE OF WHIMSY Sweetness by Gina Brown captures a carefree spirit with its dreamy beachside setting, beckoning a feeling of calm and bliss. Hang this 23-by-23-inch oil-on-canvas piece in any room that could use a peaceful pick-me-up. Available at Gallery Vibe. Inquire within for pricing. SITTING PRETTY IN THE SUN Take your stylish taste outdoors with the Ojai sofa. It offers chic sophistication for outside areas, with its square frame, swooping arms and plush cushions. Its rail base makes it sturdy, and its sun-proof fabric is built to weather the elements and withstand spills. Available for $3,615 at Zuo Modern at Miromar Design Center. ROUND AND REGAL No need to top this sculpted webbed coffee table with tons of trinkets. Its sturdy design, finished in blackened iron, takes center stage without being overbearing, which minimalists can love. Available for $1,677 at Peach Tree Designs.
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HOME + DESIGN FAV O R I T E
T H I N G S
TA S T E M A S T E R S
WOOD THAT WORKS Before you plan the décor of your new home, you have to select the right materials to build the background. That’s where interior designers like Naples-based Kira Krümm step in. When she’s helping her clients pick out new flooring, she advocates for engineered, natural, wide-plank wood. “I consider it the best general flooring decision for the Southwest Florida lifestyle,” she says. “It’s not only beautiful, warm, organic and coastal, but it’s much easier to maintain and softer on your knees and joints than hard stone or porcelain.” Engineered wood is different from the hardwood flooring that’s common up north, Krümm adds. It’s created for this climate, so it withstands Florida humidity and changes in temperature better. Today, homeowners have many different options when it comes to engineered wood-floor finishes, from beachy whitewashed light oak to smoked finishes that look almost like driftwood, Krümm says. “The finishes are quite beautiful—almost like furniture finishes. The palette has expanded a lot with the different processes they’re doing to the wood.” She adds: “Most of these finishes are matte, and they’re conducive to a more casual lifestyle, like coming straight in off the beach with sand on your feet.” Kira Krümm designed the interior of a Gulfstream Home estate with engineered wide-plank wood flooring from Real Wood Floors.
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BLAINE JOHNATHAN PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY OF REAL WOOD FLOORS
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Quintessential Port Royal homesite with big beautiful vistas across Naples Bay on an oversized 47,480 sq. ft. lot located on the south tip of Galleon Drive. $15,900,000
Spectacular southern colonial estate, block to beach. Gourmet kitchen, elevator, superior molding, wine cellar, gorgeous library, 6-car collector’s garage and more! 5+den/6.2 $7,500,000
Grande estate home, every imaginable luxury & convenience. Theater room, game room, billiards room, five-car collector’s garage! Preserve/lake views, 1.32 acre. 7/7.2 $6,750,000
Architecturally significant coastal contemporary estate home with a sprawling 8,549 SF of living space with world class features and finishes. 5+den/5.1 $6,195,000 Reduced by $300k!
Masterpiece British West Indies home built 2014, located on the beach block & 1 block to 5th Ave. S. Superior finish, gourmet kitchen & tropical themed pool. 4+den/4.1 $6,450,000
AQUALANE SHORES
OLDE NAPLES
Beautiful estate home built in 2007 Contemporary masterpiece w/gorgeous located just one block from beach with architecture that blends clean lines & timeless styling, creating a distinctive home. high-end finishes throughout its 5,849 sq. ft. of living space. 5+den/4.2 $5,525,00 153’ of water frontage and boathouse! 4+den/5.2 $5,950,000 Reduced by $550,000!
OLDE NAPLES
Over 5000 sq. ft. of absolutely stunning, coastal casual elegance. High quality finishes and luxurious livability! Classic, tasteful, exquisite! Built in 2015. 4+den/5 Reduced by $200K! $4,775,00
PORT ROYAL
23,528 sq ft lot on prestigious Gordon Dr. across from beach to build dream home. Beach access via easement right. Eligible for associate Port Royal membership. $4,500,000
OLDE NAPLES
This property represents the largest home site opportunity in Olde Naples this close to the beach. Build your dream home on this 1/2 acre, 150’ x 153’ parcel. $4,250,000
OLDE NAPLES
Stunning, casually elegant, new home with elevator. Exquisite custom finishes, luxurious baths, gourmet kitchen & fireplaces. Beach and 5th Ave just 4 blocks away! 4+den/3.1 $3,995,000 Furnished Reduced by $180k!
OLDE NAPLES
MOORINGS
GREY OAKS
AQUALANE SHORES
LAURENTIANS 1C
AQUALANE SHORES
VANDERBILT BEACH
Classic Florida-style home offers a striking blend of casual living and upscale finish. 5 blocks to the beach, 3 to 5th Ave S historic dining/shopping district. 5+den/5.1 $3,875,000
Magnificent, stately home built in 2014 with 6,107 sq. ft. U/A. Open floor plan & boasts timeless architecture, luxuriantly understated elegant & upscale finish. 5+den/4.3 $3,750,000
Architecturally inspired 5,800 sq. ft. luxury residence with finish and features sure to impress all surrounded by rich, tropical environs. 4+den/5.1 $3,500,000
Being sold as a 100’ x 185’ home site in prestigious Aqualane Shores. Build your dream home just a block from the beach. Charming older home just a bonus! $3,500,000
Feels like a private, elegant beach house! Spacious, fully updated, coastal chic, walk-out with gourmet kitchen, luxurious baths, garage. Direct Gulf views! 4/4 $2,950,000
Build your dream home on this oversized Aqualane Shores lot. Deeded boat dock can be included for an additional $200,000. Minutes to beach, shopping & dining. $1,995,000 Reduced by $100,000!
Build your dream home! Excellent waterfront lot in Conner’s Vanderbilt Beach Estates. Being sold for LOT value. Bike to beach, boat to Gulf. Existing home a bonus! $999,000
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ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL If you want to give yourself the best chance of having the grandkids want to come visit, you cannot hedge your bets any better than this amazing ’60s-style camper inspired by Fillmore from the movie Cars. The exterior is fiberglass with chromeplated finishes, and the inside is palisander wood veneer and contains several storage compartments, a bed, a TV, a desk, a mini bar and a sofa—everything a kid could dream of. —Michael Korb
Starts at $35,350; Circu, circu.net
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T H E GR IF F E RT Y GROUP The Power of Partnership… Reputation for Results.
QUAIL WEST
QUAIL WEST
QUAIL WEST
28921 CAVELL TERRACE $6,750,000
5926 DREXEL COURT $3,999,000
6304 BURNHAM ROAD $2,585,000
5BR+Den/5BA + 2 Half 9,269 Living | 16,172 Total
5BR+Den/5BA + 3 Half 7,537 Living | 11,257 Total
4BR+Den/5.5BA 6,775 Living | 8,283 Total
AUDUBON COUNTRY CLUB
QUAIL WEST
QUAIL WEST
238 AUDUBON BLVD. $2,395,000
13710 PONDVIEW CIRCLE $1,995,000
28901 GIRARD TERRACE $1,995,000
4BR+Den/6.5BA 6,092 Living | 11,785 Total
4BR+Den/5.5BA 8,080 Living | 11,245 Total
4BR+Den/4.5BA 4,578 Living | 10,657 Total
QUAIL WEST
PALMIRA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
QUAIL WEST
6020 SUNNYSLOPE DRIVE $1,595,000
28556 TALORI TERRACE $1,550,000
28700 LA CAILLE DRIVE $1,195,000
4BR+Den/4.5BA 3,375Living | 4,953 Total
4BR+Den/5.5BA 4,457 Living | 8,604 Total
3BR+Den/3.5BA 2,966 Living | 4,494 Total
Tom Grifferty, Realtor® 239-293-9560 TGrifferty@JohnRWood.com
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Carmen Grifferty, Realtor® 239-293-9570 CGrifferty@JohnRWood.com
Kim Basa, Realtor® 239-572-5212 KBasa@JohnRWood.com
www.TheGriffertyGroup.com
Jordan Blessing, Realtor® 239-216-7171 JBlessing@JohnRWood.com
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
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2019 FIVE STAR AWARD WINNERS Real Estate Agents
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Mortgage Professionals Home/Auto Insurance Professionals
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SOUTHWEST FLORIDA
AWARD WINNERS RECOGNIZED FOR PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE REAL ESTATE AGENTS
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
HOME/AUTO INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS
Five Star Professional partnered with Gulfshore Life magazine to identify real estate, mortgage and insurance professionals in the Southwest Florida area who deliver outstanding service and client satisfaction. The Five Star Professional research team contacted thousands of recent homebuyers, as well as other consumers. Clients may also submit evaluations online. Phone and online respondents rated their service professional on criteria such as overall satisfaction and whether they would recommend the provider to a friend. The research methodology allows no more than 7 percent of professionals in each category to receive the award.
RISING STAR AWARD WINNERS Meet the next wave of outstanding real estate agents in the Southwest Florida area! Five Star Professional’s research team contacted branch managers, established real estate veterans and consumers to identify up-and-coming real estate agents in the industry. Rising Star award winners are held in high regard by their peers and mentors and have received a qualifying nomination for the award. Evaluators were asked to identify an agent who has been in the industry for five years or less and embodies professional excellence, exhibits superior customer service and shows great potential to excel in their profession. All Rising Star award winners must be actively licensed, satisfy minimum production criteria and have a favorable regulatory history to be eligible for award consideration.
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Research — How Our Winners Are Chosen • The 2019 Five Star Real Estate Agents, Mortgage Professionals and Home/Auto Insurance Professionals do not pay a fee to be included in the research or the final lists. • Each professional is screened against state governing bodies to verify that licenses are current and no disciplinary actions are pending. • The inclusion of a real estate agent, mortgage professional or insurance professional on the final list should not be construed as an endorsement by Five Star Professional or Gulfshore Life magazine.
Determination of Award Winners Professionals who satisfied each of the following objective criteria were named a 2019 Southwest Florida Five Star Real Estate Agent, Five Star Mortgage Professional or Five Star Home/Auto Insurance Professional: Evaluation Criteria: 1. Qualifying rating Eligibility Criteria: 2. Holds an active license and employed in their field for a minimum of five years 3. Favorable regulatory and complaint history review
4. Satisfies minimum production on a one-year and three-year basis 5. Successful completion of a Blue Ribbon Panel review Real estate agents, mortgage professionals and home/auto insurance professionals are pooled only with other candidates from their profession. The final list of 2019 Southwest Florida Five Star award winners is a select group, representing approximately 2 percent of real estate agents, 2 percent of mortgage professionals and 1 percent of home/auto insurance professionals in the area. To see the full list of winners, visit www.fivestarprofessional.com.
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The Susan Owens Team Left to right: Eleven-year winner Susan Owens; David Jablonski
Amerivest Realty 4851 North Tamiami Trail, Suite 258 • Naples, FL 34103 Susan Owens: 239-248-5580 • David Jablonski: 239-961-1170 Susan@SusanOwens.com • www.BarefootBeach.com
Susan Owens, MBA, and her team are passionate about satisfying their clients. Representing both sellers and buyers, they listen to their clients’ needs, research and locate relevant properties, negotiate aggressively and lead their clients to a successful and stress-free closing. The Susan Owens Team, including income property specialist David Jablonski, has used its proven marketing strategies and advertising techniques to gain exposure for clients’ properties and to achieve record-setting sales. Whether you are looking to buy or sell a primary home, second home or an investment property, you can count on The Susan Owens Team to give you accurate information that only full-time real estate professionals can provide. Call The Susan Owens Team to work for you. Let them bring you a piece of paradise with peace of mind.
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Mari Vesci Broker Associate
Two-Year Winner
John R. Wood Properties 9000 Gulf Shore Drive • Naples, FL 34108 Phone: 239-269-8889 mari@vesci.com • vesci.com
Originally from the summer destination of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, Mari was drawn to Naples for its pristine beaches, sunshine and emerging real estate market. She has been a dedicated top-ranking broker associate of Naples for 31 years. Mari joined forces with John R. Wood Properties after a long, successful career in beach and waterfront residential sales. She has formed a dynamic team combined with market knowledge, luxury affiliations and cutting-edge technology. Let her put her depth of experience and top-notch negotiating skills to work while guiding you toward the best real estate decisions in the current market.
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Mark Semeraro Realtor
Five-Year Winner
Royal Shell Real Estate 3000 Tamiami Trail North • Naples, FL 34103 Phone: 239-370-2455 msemeraro1@hotmail.com • www.royalshellrealestate.com
Mark specializes in working with senior citizens and international clients by buying and selling property not only locally, but globally. In working with Mark, you will enjoy the benefits of working with his team of professionals who are trained to work with senior citizens and international clients, including attorneys, title companies, accountants, home inspection services and mortgage companies. Mark has been a full-time real estate professional since 1992 and has been a multimillion-dollar producer since his very first year in the business.
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REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Anita Colletti ABR®, AHWD®, CDPE, CIPS, CNE, CRS, e-PRO®, GRI, RSPS, SFR®
6
YEAR WINNER Six-year winner Anita Colletti, 2014 Realtor of the Year
Extraordinary Homes Require Extraordinary Service Specializing in residential and luxury real estate, golf course communities and waterfront properties
John R. Wood Properties
Relocation and second-home expertise 1185 Immokalee Road, Suite 300 • Naples, FL 34110 Phone: 239-250-0700 • AColletti@JohnRWood.com www.AnitaRealtor.com
High-quality investment property knowledge including 1031 exchanges
Anita specializes in Naples luxury properties. Her comprehensive experience includes not only residential resales and pre-construction, but more complicated transactions such as residential trades, 1031 tax-free exchanges and self-directed IRAs. She is known for her dedication to professionalism and her focus on superior customer service.
and the nior ants, real e his
Anita spends much of her time giving back to the Southwest Florida community and her real estate profession. She has served in many leadership roles at the local, state and national levels, which has allowed her to travel throughout the U.S. to promote awareness and support of legislation regarding private property rights. The real estate community has recognized Anita with its highest honor, 2014 Realtor of the Year for her work with the Bonita Springs - Estero Association of Realtors. In addition to all of her philanthropic work, Anita dedicates a portion of the proceeds of each transaction to various local and national charities. Anita is one of only a few select agents to participate in John R. Wood’s mentor program focusing on coaching new agents through their first three transactions, which helps build the customer experience for all Southwest Florida consumers. Allow Anita’s extensive property knowledge and superior service skills to help bring you and your family through the real estate process and to the home of your dreams. Real Estate Agent Award Winner
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REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Sandra Carano Realtor, SRES®, e-PRO®
Your Dream Home Awaits 100 percent committed to my clients
Integrity
Excellent customer service
Referral-based business
Skilled negotiator
Thank you to my many clients for taking the time to recognize me for the prestigious Five Star Real Estate Agent award. I couldn’t have done it without you. As a full-time Realtor, I feel privileged to be working with you and always strive to exceed your expectations. Thank you for your reviews and referrals.
5
YEAR WINNER
370 12th Avenue South, Suite 100 • Naples, FL 34102 Phone: 239-200-0531 • sandracsells@gmail.com naplesfloridahomerealty.com
Five-year winner Sandra Carano, Realtor, SRES® Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Garren Everett Grup, P.A. Realtor, ABR®, CLHMS, CDPE, CNE, GRI, SFR®
Bring Your Highest Expectations™ Over 15 years of real estate expertise with the leader in luxury real estate Leading an experienced team serving all of Southwest Florida Garren Grup, who leads Grup & Associates Coastal Properties, has been counseling clients and negotiating the purchase and sale of Southwest Florida properties for more than 15 years at John R. Wood Properties. A specialist in new construction communities as well as luxury and resort properties, Garren excels in formulating solutions to the challenges facing buyers and sellers of properties at all price points. For buyers, Garren is committed to delivering an exceptional experience while locating the best value and community to complement their desired lifestyle. Focusing on the clients’ needs above all else has resulted in a continuously expanding network of loyal clients and referrals.
6
YEAR WINNER
3255 Tamiami Trail • Naples, FL 34103 Phone: 239-289-8619 Garren@BuyUpNaples.com www.HomesInNaplesToBonita.com
Six-year winner Garren Everett Grup, P.A. Real Estate Agent Award Winner
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REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Dina Skaff Broker, Owner, GRI, ABR®, e-PRO®, SRS
Serving Southwest Florida’s Real Estate Needs Graduate, Realtor Institute Accredited Buyer’s Representative Over two decades of real estate expertise
With over 25 years in real estate and 12 years’ experience in sunny Southwest Florida, my expertise and connections secure deals. Specializing in Miromar Lakes, Estero, Bonita Springs, Naples and Fort Myers, I am passionate about working with the latest technology to educate my clients on today’s market. Whether you are buying, selling or renting homes, condos or investments, I look forward to working with you!
10
YEAR WINNER
10600 Chevrolet Way, Suite 227 • Estero, FL 33928 Phone: 239-949-9001 • Phone: 201-394-9606 Dina@DinaMarieRealty.com • www.DinaMarieRealty.com
Ten-year winner Dina Skaff, Broker, Owner, GRI, ABR®, e-PRO®, SRS Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Jim Mayer
Lynn C. Atkinson, P.A.
Realtor
Residential Real Estate Professional
26269 Tamiami Trail South Bonita Springs, FL 34134 9130 Corsea Del Fontana Way Naples, FL 34109 Phone: 239-877-2440 www.LynnAtkinson.com
13
YEAR WINNER
8
Left to right: Thirteen-year winner Jim Mayer; Linda Mayer
Your Naples Information Resource ∙ Board of Directors member, John R. Wood Properties ∙ Sales Hall of Fame, John R. Wood Properties ∙ 13-time Five Star Real Estate Agent, featured in Gulfshore Life magazine ∙ Your Naples resource for more than 20 years 787 Fifth Avenue South • Naples, FL 34102 Office: 239-434-0101 • Cell: 239-290-9685 jmayer@johnrwood.com • mayerteam.com Real Estate Agent Award Winner
YEAR WINNER
Celebrating 14 Years as Your Trusted Real Estate Professional
∙ SRES® — Senior Real Estate Specialist® ∙ PSA — Pricing Strategy Advisor ∙ CNE — Certified Negotiation Expert ∙ TRC — Transnational Referral Certification ∙ GREEN — NAR’s Green Designation ∙ CLHMS — Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist™; Million Dollar Guild member ∙ Circle of Excellence award winner, 2009 – 2019 Thank you to all of my customers for this prestigious award. I am grateful for your trust, confidence and referrals over the years. It’s an honor and privilege to be part of your journeys. Real Estate Agent Award Winner
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REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Sue Ellen Mathers
Dena Wilcoxen
ABR®, SRES®, MBA, CNE, Lic. 3130294
Sales Professional
24880 South Tamiami Trail, Suite 1 Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Phone: 239-989-2436 DenaWilcoxen@gmail.com denasellsbonita.com @DenaWilcoxen
26811 South Tamiami Trail Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Phone: 239-877-2726 sueellen@royalshellsales.com sueellenmathers.com
6
We Make It Easy. You Make It Home.
YEAR WINNER
5
The Power of Experience, the Benefit of Results
YEAR WINNER
∙ Skilled negotiator ∙ Committed to customer satisfaction ∙ Business built on referrals ∙ Market expertise
∙ Over 20 years’ experience ∙ Top 3 percent of BHHS Florida Realty ∙ ABR®, GRI, CSMS
For many people, real estate represents their largest investment. Trust, integrity and knowledge are critical elements when engaging a licensed professional to represent you, whether buying or selling property. I thank my many clients for recognizing my dedication, service and results by selecting me again for the Five Star Real Estate Agent award.
I look forward to putting my knowledge, experience and connections to work for you to help make your real estate experience a pleasant and successful journey. Personalized, professional service is what I offer by marketing your home at the highest level possible and maximizing your investment in the years to come. Adding you to my list of satisfied customers is my goal!
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
David Tate
Tammy Cook
Realtor, CIPS, ABR®, e-PRO®
Realtor
John R. Wood Properties 1520 Royal Palm Square Blvd., Suite 160 Fort Myers, FL 33919 Cell: 239-229-5145 Office: 239-236-4350 tammy@sellsparadise.com www.sellsparadise.com
1000 North Collier Boulevard, Suite 1 Marco Island, FL 34145 Phone: 239-775-5547 naplesdave@tateteam.com naplesbonitaproperty.com
14
YEAR WINNER
Thinking of Real Estate? Think of David Tate!
∙ Proven track record for quality customer service and integrity ∙ Consistently exceeds expectations, honest and straightforward ∙ Selling real estate in the communities of Naples, Marco Island and Bonita Springs Thanks to my many customers that have nominated me to be one of only nine Realtors in Southwest Florida to be selected 14 years to receive this prestigious honor. Please give me a call so I can demonstrate to you why my customers feel this way. Real Estate Agent Award Winner
3
Serving Fort Myers and The Islands
YEAR WINNER
∙ Over 13 years of experience ∙ Relocation expertise ∙ Representing buyers and sellers ∙ Client-first mentality There are many qualities and skills that go into being an excellent real estate agent — integrity, in-depth community and market knowledge, marketing savvy, effective negotiation skills and a top-notch professional network. In my experience as a Southwest Florida Realtor, I’ve also found that providing the very best service is about putting my clients first. This means keeping myself accessible, being a good listener as well as a good communicator and responding quickly to your needs. Real Estate Agent Award Winner
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REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Barbara Crawford
Erica Eister
Sales Associate
Broker Associate
5
Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Estero, FL 33928 Phone: 239-898-4077 Erica@Eisterland.com www.EsteroBonitaHomes.com
7
YEAR WINNER
Real Edge Real Estate Group
∙ Always putting her clients first ∙ Expansive market knowledge of gated and non-gated communities ∙ New construction and renovation expertise ∙ Unique marketing strategies to sell property effectively ∙ Golf, boat and tennis community top-producing agent ∙ Social media presence
Robert L. Nardi
Broker, Realtor, e-PRO®, ABR®, RSPS
7
YEAR WINNER
Erica Eister has dedicated her real estate career to successfully reaching the goals of her clients in the luxury markets of Estero, Bonita Springs, Naples, Marco Island and Fort Myers.
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Karen Wasserman
Harriet Harnar, P.A.
When deciding to sell or buy property, hire an award-winning Realtor like Karen Wasserman, MSN, who has over a decade of experience in Southwest Florida. She is a luxury waterfront specialist of beach condos and single-family homes offering Gulf access from Sanibel to Naples to Marco Island. Karen also works in the Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Fisher Island neighborhoods on the East Coast. Originally from New Jersey where Karen practiced as an Advanced Practice RN in an open-heart unit, she continues to care for her real estate customers with the same integrity, expertise and attention to detail for a smooth transaction.
∙ Over 25 years’ experience in real estate ∙ Fair, honest and reputable ∙ Seeks clients’ viewpoints Harriet is a truly dedicated professional who is passionate about helping her clients reach their personal real estate goals. Harriet thanks her loyal and satisfied clients for recognizing her excellent customer service and for referring her to family and friends. There is no greater reward!
Realtor, MSN
6
Sales Associate, CRS, CSP
12
YEAR WINNER
27400 Riverview Center Boulevard, Suite 4 • Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Cell: 239-273-5443 • Office: 239-405-6204 harriet.harnar@premiersir.com • harrietharnar.com
3757 North Tamiami Trail • Naples, FL 34103 • Phone: 239-404-3911 marconaplesfl@aol.com • http://NaplesBoutiqueRealEstate.com Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Roger Brunswick
William Hogerhuis
∙ 2015 Realtor of the Year — Bonita Springs-Estero Realtors ∙ John R. Wood Properties Award of Excellence ∙ Specializing in golf and waterfront homes and condos
∙ Specializes in luxury properties ∙ Understands the needs of lifestyle buyers and the communities that serve them ∙ Over 25 years’ experience including investment properties
Realtor
7
YEAR WINNER
∙ Over 17 years of real estate experience ∙ Designated resort and second-home property specialist ∙ Treating every customer like our only customer After working with a global real estate company for five years, Robert Nardi discovered the need for a boutique real estate firm that specialized in meeting its customers’ needs. Robert created Nardi Realty to ensure each customer and property has the opportunity to be handled with the care and attention it deserves. 3400 Tamiami Trail North, Suite 103 • Naples, FL 34103 Phone: 239-293-3592 • Phone: 239-213-1616 Robert@NardiRealty.com • NardiRealty.com
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
YEAR WINNER
1591 Hayley Lane, Suite 101 • Fort Myers, FL 33907 Office: 239-208-4255 • Direct: 239-297-5300 barbcrawford14@gmail.com • realedgebrokerage.com Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Bringing People and Homes Together in Southwest Florida
YEAR WINNER
Barbara Crawford has nearly 15 years’ experience selling residential real estate in Southwest Florida. Clients choose to work with Barbara for her full service, ethics, experience and expertise. Barbara has consistently shown the ability to satisfy clients in the buying and selling of their homes. Her strong base of loyal, repeat customers and extensive knowledge of Southwest Florida has helped Barbara’s success in this incredibly competitive real estate market.
I am working diligently to make the Southwest Suncoast the best place to live, work and play in Florida. It is for this reason that I remain actively involved within the community to improve the lifestyle and experiences available for our residents. Working today provides a bright future for the community that I proudly call my home. 26269 Tamiami Trail South • Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Phone: 239-989-6457 • roger@rogerbrunswick.com • rogerbrunswick.com Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Realtor, P.A., MBA
5
YEAR WINNER
Bill has worked in the real estate industry in Southwest Florida since 1993 and has extensive experience in listing, selling and mortgage financing. He provides outstanding professional service and on-time closings for sellers, buyers and borrowers. 3409 Pelican Landing Parkway, Suite 1 • Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Phone: 239-691-7538 • w.hogerhuis@comcast.net • premiereplusrealty.com Real Estate Agent Award Winner
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REAL ESTATE AGENTS
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
HOME/AUTO INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS
George Messeha
Rosemary Scheetz-Bruce
I am honored to receive this prestigious award for the sixth year. Thank you to all of my clients who entrusted me with serving their real estate needs. Nothing makes me happier than helping my clients settle into their dream homes or get the best value for their properties. Providing excellence is the one thing I do not negotiate. As a dedicated Realtor, your best interest is my highest priority.
∙ 33 years of selling real estate ∙ General agent working in Bonita Springs, Estero and Naples ∙ Selling luxury homes, condos and high rises Rosemary moved to Southwest Florida in 1983 with a Master’s degree in education. Following the pattern of growth from Pelican Bay to Bonita Springs and Estero, she has developed a wealth of experience helping clients find the perfect home in a community matched to their wants and needs.
Realtor, Lic. SL3202212
6
YEAR WINNER
4851 Tamiami Trail N • Naples, FL 34109 Phone: 239-404-7428 • mmesseha@yahoo.com • georgesellsnaples.com Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Realtor
6
YEAR WINNER
Keller Williams Elite
Rea
All A
Lynn Pro
Jay A
Mari Kelli
26381 Tamiami Trail South, Suite 300 • Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Cell: 239-633-5987 • Office: 239-949-8338 rosemary@rosemaryscheetz-bruce.com
Roge Pro
Sand Pag
Real Estate Agent Award Winner
Chris Rea
Lisa Rudy
Senior Loan Consultant, NMLS 366076
4 YEAR
WINNER
Tony Tea
∙ Jumbo, conventional, FHA and VA programs ∙ Serving residential property needs Since 1998, I have helped homebuyers and homeowners realize their dream of homeownership. Sometimes it’s their first home purchase, and just as many times they are buying a second home or purchasing an investment property. With 20 years of experience to share, I offer borrowers a wide array of loans through Caliber Home Loans, Inc.
Andr
Alicia Pro
Kerri Hom
Willi Re
1421 Pine Ridge Road, Suite 220 • Naples, FL 34109 • Cell: 239-777-4141 Lisa.Rudy@caliberhomeloans.com • caliberhomeloans.com/lrudy
Debo
Mortgage Professional Award Winner
Jeff J
Cind
Edwin Pickett
Susa
Insurance Professional
Earli Hom
Alan Hom
Gwen
4903 Chiquita Boulevard South Cape Coral, FL 33914 Phone: 239-542-1117 edwinpickett@allstate.com agents.allstate.com/edwin-pickett
2
Sue Est
Chris Rea
Susa Pag
You’re In Good Hands
YEAR WINNER
∙ Protecting families, homes, vehicles and more ∙ Over 36 years of service in the industry ∙ Serving Cape Coral and all of Southwest Florida As a personal financial representative in Cape Coral, I know many local families. My knowledge and understanding of the people in this community help me provide customers with an outstanding level of service. I look forward to helping families like yours protect the things that are important to you.
Geri
Dodo
“Your heart has to be in the right
Mich
place — you haveto genuinely desire to make a difference in your clients’ lives.”
Mark Est
Dore Rea
Jim W The
— Five Star award winner
Den Ho
Mich Home/Auto Insurance Professional Award Winner
FS-11
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GULFR
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS
HOME/AUTO INSURANCE PROFESSIONALS
To see the full list of winners, visit www.fivestarprofessional.com. Real Estate Agents All Areas Lynn C. Atkinson, P.A. ∙ John R. Wood Properties Page 8 Jay Attwood ∙ Premiere Plus Realty Marie J. Benoit ∙ RE/MAX Realty Partners Kellie Brown ∙ John R. Wood Properties Roger Brunswick ∙ John R. Wood Properties Page 10
Jean Williamson ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Angeline Sackett ∙ RE/MAX Realty Team
Peggy Sue Garrity ∙ William Raveis Real Estate
Bonita Springs
Sandy B. Saddleson ∙ Premiere Plus Realty
Vickee Lynn Douglas ∙ Downing Frye Realty, Inc.
Donald Kenneth Spaulding ∙ Golf Realty Group
Erica Eister ∙ Eister & Company Page 10
Marco Island
Harriet Harnar P.A. ∙ Premiere Sotheby’s International Realty Page 10
Diane Beattie ∙ RE/MAX
Garren Everett Grup, P.A. ∙ John R. Wood Properties Page 7
Lori Holland ∙ Premier Sotheby’s International Realty
Judy Hansen ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Brian Giacomello ∙ LUX International Properties Debra Gladchun ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Susan Weidlich ∙ Waterfront Realty Group Tom Weidlich ∙ Waterfront Realty Group Heather Wightman ∙ Keller Williams Elite Realty Mitch Williams ∙ John R. Wood Properties Sandi Williams ∙ John R. Wood Properties Yvonne Wood ∙ John R. Wood Properties Deborah Zvibleman ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Donna Kittle ∙ RE/MAX
Fatima S. Khokhar ∙ Premier Sotheby’s International Realty
Sanibel
Cape Coral
Sherrie Marie Pfeffer ∙ Sotheby’s International Realty
Claire Licciardi ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Jayne Lumley ∙ VIP Realty Group
Dan Colofranson ∙ CENTURY 21 Selling Paradise
Christine Waldren ∙ RE/MAX Affinity Plus Marco Island
Jeff Mann ∙ Downing Frye Realty
Maureen G. Gobbi ∙ RE/MAX
Patrick Wilkins ∙ RE/MAX
Lance Martinicchio ∙ BEX Realty
Andrea Errico-Kinney ∙ Jones & Co. Realty
Vito Kostrzewski ∙ Jones & Co Realty
Stacy Witthoff ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Alicia Galante ∙ Cornerstone Coastal Properties
Greg Lipman ∙ Starlink Realty
Sally Masters ∙ Signature International Premier Properties
Kerri Henning ∙ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty
Susan Milner ∙ Florida Future Realty
Dina Skaff ∙ Dina Marie Realty, LLC Page 8
William Hogerhuis ∙ Premiere Plus Realty Page 10
Joan Dwyer Nass ∙ RE/MAX Realty Team
Naples
Janie Nelson ∙ Premiere Plus Realty
JoAnn Boyd Aycock ∙ Downing-Frye Realty
Bruce Miller ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Laurie Ann Bellico ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Joseph Morgan ∙ Downing Frye Realty
Sandra Carano ∙ Premiere Plus Realty Page 7 Christopher Cioffi ∙ No Nonsense Real Estate Tony Erpenbeck III ∙ Denny Grimes & Team at Keller Williams Realty Naples
Deborah Hopple ∙ Right Choice Realty Jeff Jordan ∙ Keller Williams Elite Realty Cindy Kruesi ∙ John R. Wood Properties Susan M. Larned ∙ Gulf Access Realty, Inc. Earline Lawrence ∙ Berkshire Hathaway HomeSerivces Florida Realty Alan B. Levi ∙ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Gwen Martin ∙ RE/MAX Realty Team Sue Ellen Mathers ∙ Royal Shell Real Estate Page 9 Christine Million ∙ Florida Complete Realty Susan Owens ∙ Amerivest Realty Page 3 Geri Quinn ∙ RE/MAX Realty Team Dodona Roboci ∙ Royal Shell Real Estate
Diane Rudd ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Lenora Marshall ∙ eXp Realty
Joshua Painter P.A. ∙ RE/MAX Realty Partners Katie Smith-Sylvia ∙ Keller Williams Realty
Miromar Lakes
Susan Bracken ∙ Premiere Plus Realty
Nandy Miller ∙ John R. Wood Properties Sue Myhelic ∙ Gulf Breeze Real Estate Robert L. Nardi ∙ Nardi Realty Page 10
James R. Braden ∙ Florida Complete Realty
Lynn Charlas White ∙ Coldwell Banker
Leah Paige ∙ BEX Realty
Christine Citrano ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Frank Petras ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Diana Coyle ∙ John R. Wood Properties Jack Mancini ∙ Keller Williams Realty Jesse McGreevy ∙ Domain Realty Rosemary Scheetz-Bruce ∙ Keller Williams Elite Page 11
Fort Myers Susan Bryant ∙ RE/MAX Realty Group Cathy Canelli ∙ CENTURY 21 Sunbelt Realty #1, Inc.
Sharon Cohan ∙ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Anita Colletti ∙ John R. Wood Properties Page 6 Karen Coney Coplin ∙ Downing Frye Realty
Rising Star Real Estate Agents Fort Myers Trevor Moore ∙ VIP Realty Group, Inc.
Naples Christina Marie Muracco ∙ Premiere Plus Realty Co
Bonita Springs Mary Watts Wolleon ∙ DomainRealty. com, LLC
Mortgage Professionals Karen Boring ∙ loanDepot Kathleen Doll ∙ Paramount Residential Mortgage Group
Julie Rembos ∙ Premier Sotheby’s International Realty
Jeannette Farr ∙ The Moore Lending Group/Powered By Sierra Pacific Mortgage
Elaine Ritchie-Prete ∙ Realty World Top Producers
Mary Harper ∙ First Florida Integrity Bank
Terri Romano ∙ Downing Frye Realty Jennifer Shoots ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Leticia Rocha ∙ First Florida Integrity Bank
Kathy Crandall ∙ Waterfront Realty Group, Inc.
Mark W. Simoff ∙ Downing Frye Realty
Ron Seliga ∙ Cardinal Financial
Billie Dalesio-Faccinto ∙ Downing Frye Realty
Michael Sopka ∙ MVP Realty Associate, LLC
Jane Wingate ∙ Gulf Coast Mortgage of Naples
Terese DeLuca ∙ Terese DeLuca PA
David Tate ∙ John R. Wood Properties Page 9
Home/Auto Insurance Professionals
Dorenda E. Wentworth ∙ Wentworth Realty Group
Denny Grimes ∙ Denny Grimes & Company
Jerry DiGiacomo ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Linda Joiner ∙ Keller Williams Fort Myers and the Islands
Doreen Doyle ∙ Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
Tim Kennedy ∙ VIP Realty Group
Bridgette Catherine Foster ∙ Downing Frye Realty
Sue Robb ∙ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty
Terri B. James ∙ Pine Island Realty, Inc.
Lisa Rudy ∙ Caliber Home Loans Page 11
Barbara Crawford ∙ Real Edge Real Estate Group Page 10
Sheila Peterson ∙ RE/MAX Realty Group
St. James City
Susan Simmons ∙ Compass
Mark Semeraro ∙ Royal Shell Real Estate Page 5
Michael Wilkins ∙ Wilkins Realty Group
George Messeha ∙ MVP Realty Associates Page 11
Kim Case ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Michele Santucci ∙ Starlink Realty
Dena Wilcoxen ∙ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Page 9
Jim Mayer ∙ John R. Wood Properties Page 8
Estero
Tammy Cook ∙ Keller Williams Realty Fort Myers & The Islands Page 9
Jim Westerfield ∙ Royal Shell Real Estate/ The Westerfield Group
Linda Loomis ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Lisa Denove ∙ Premiere Plus Realty
Lauren Fowlkes ∙ Downing Frye Realty
Heidi Varsames ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Berne Barton ∙ Arnold & Barton Insurance
Mari Vesci ∙ John R. Wood Properties Page 4
Kristy Maxwell ∙ Robertson Ryan & Associates Florida
Mimy von Schreiner ∙ John R. Wood Properties
Chris Mitchell ∙ Brightway Insurance
Karen Wasserman ∙ Sun Realty Page 10
Edwin Pickett ∙ Allstate Page 11
REALTOR® is a federally registered collective membership mark which identifies a real estate professional who is a Member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. FS-12
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HOME + DESIGN R E A LT Y
C H E C K
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WHAT YOUR MONEY WILL BUY ... ... for $5.1 million, $3 million and $1.6 million By Melanie Pagan
5.1
$
MILLION
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Many Marco Island mansions have waterfront allure, but the meticulous details at 870 W. Copeland Drive added to its appeal, says listing agent Bill Reiman of Horizons by the Sea Inc. “More homes are going contemporary, and this one was more Mediterranean/Tuscan, so we had a ton of detail in this house,” he adds. Some of those special touches include extensive woodwork in the movie theater and study and a secret wine room right off the kitchen, accessed by pushing through a wall. Reiman knew all about the craftsmanship, as his family-run company, Reiman Construction, built the 6,508-square-foot property in
2010. His knowledge even led to a quicker sale, he says. The estate, which has five bedrooms, five full bathrooms and three half-bathrooms, sold in January within two months of Reiman putting it back on the market after a brief hiatus. “Your [days on market] average on Marco Island is a lot longer for a home of this size.” The buyer, who is from the Northeast, also favored the home’s boating opportunities, as it’s situated on more than half an acre and boasts 242 feet of deepwater frontage with direct Gulf access. Of course, a resort-style infinity-edge pool to watch Southwest Florida sunsets from isn’t bad, either.
gulfshorelife.com
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Naples
T O P %
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$1.6 M I L L I O N
$3 M I L L I O N
A local family kicked off 2019 with the $3 million purchase of the Spanish Revival-style home at 240 Barefoot Beach Blvd. The 4,556-squarefoot, boat-friendly abode has lots of perks, says Lisa Tashjian of Premier Sotheby's International Realty, who listed and sold the unfurnished property. “The house sits on a wide lot and has grand scale and high ceilings,” she says. “Its position on the bay side of the boulevard allows Gulf breezes to enter from the front, while the back of the house—enclosed by a two-story pool cage—allows for maximum use and enjoyment of two levels of outdoor entertainment space.” The outdoor areas feature a pool, spa, summer kitchen, boat dock with dual lifts and more. Inside, the five-bedroom, 41/2bathroom house has a kitchen and family room that open to a large balcony, and a fourth-floor family room that overlooks the canal and Gulf. Built in 2009, the compound also contains impact glass, a private elevator to all floors and fresh, soft white paint throughout, “which allowed the architectural details to stand out,” Tashjian says.
Expansive lake and golf course views drew buyers to the 180 Chesire Way estate at the Audubon Country Club of Naples. “The outdoor living area was very open with a really nice gathering room at the top, where you had this terrific long lake view,” says listing agent Doug Grant of The Grant Group at Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate. “When you opened the sliders, you really felt like it was all just part of the home.” The 5,925-square-foot, two-story residence had some other special touches, including a guest house that opened up to the screened-in patio, plus a three-hole putting green, three-car garage with ample storage space, and dual master suites—one on each level. The custom Arthur Rutenberg home, built in 2012 with five bedrooms, six full bathrooms and two half-bathrooms, boasts fine finishes like a wood beam-accented ceiling; granite and marble countertops with custom cabinetry; and wood, tile and Terrazzo stone floors. The community is also quite close to the sand and sea. “You can go out the back entrance of Audubon and be at beach in 5 to 10 minutes,” Grant says.
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Senior living to inspire you
Siena Lakes Sales Center Now Open
Conceptual Rendering
Envision your vibrant, carefree retirement in a stunning setting—and bring it to life at
and contemporary finishes.
Siena Lakes, a luxurious continuing care senior living community coming soon to North Naples, FL.
Resort-style amenities like a fitness center, spa,
Our beautiful Sales Center is now open, and the friendly sales team members are eager to show you full-color renderings, floor plan designs, virtual tours, and more.
Stylish apartment homes with spacious designs
and pool just steps from your door.
Wellness services to keep you healthy in body and mind.
Ideal location close to shopping, dining, entertainment, and world-famous beaches.
Call 1-800-989-5802 or visit SienaLakesNaples.com today to request your free brochure and plan your visit.
2521 Orange Blossom Drive Naples, FL 34109
13288262
SienaLakesNaples.com
The purpose of this ad is to solicit nonbinding reservations for Siena Lakes, which includes payment of an initial deposit of no more than 10% of the projected entrance fee. The reservation is not a contract and may be canceled by the prospective resident at any time without cause. Upon request and cancellation of the nonbinding reservation, Siena Lakes will refund the deposit to the prospective resident.
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+ QA
HOME + DESIGN R E A LT Y
C H E C K
0 5. 2 019
Does professional home staging really help a property sell?
BEFORE
A S K A R E A LT O R
AFTER
What are the top things buyers should know before purchasing a waterfront home in Southwest Florida?
R E N O VAT I O N S P O T L I G H T
SEAMLESS SPACES Port Royal homeowners recently updated their heavy Mediterraneanstyle digs for a more open, timeless design. “The owners were trying to maintain the classic and traditional style, updated to reflect current trends and the Florida lifestyle,” says Ryan Benson, principal of A. Vernon Allen Builder. The Naples-based homebuilder remodeled the interior and back area of the home, replacing the pool, bringing up the grade, expanding the lanai and installing a connective deck. Now, the space feels more fluid, and the homeowners can enjoy both areas with ease. “They live outdoors when they are in town, and it’s an inviting and fun space,” Benson says. With the help of Jon Kukk of Kukk Architecture & Design, Lisa Kahn of Lisa Kahn Designs and landscape architect Scott Windham, the $1 million-plus project came together in 18 months.
A: “When purchasing a waterfront home, it’s important to be aware of the Federal Emergency Management (FEMA) flood zones for the particular area of interest. An elevation certificate should be available or obtained for any home a buyer is considering. A home below current FEMA levels could make the flood insurance costly compared to conforming homes. “If purchasing a navigable bay or canal home, buyers will need to consider the size of boats they would like to dock behind the home. Boat lift sizes, bridges to pass under and channel depths are all considerations to keep in mind. If the home has a seawall, I would always recommend having a professional seawall company inspect for defects and estimate the lifespan.”
A: “According to the Real Estate Staging Association (RESA), homes that are staged before going on the market sell 73 percent faster, on average, than their non-staged counterparts. In my opinion, you only get one opportunity to make a first impression. Decluttering, painting, organizing and depersonalizing are essential. A vacant, unfurnished home is always difficult for buyers to envision the home’s flow and lifestyle. Buyers want to imagine themselves and their family relaxing in the surroundings, and many are unable to see beyond open spaces and blank walls. While having a home professionally staged can be expensive, the cost will prove to be a sound investment and will produce a quicker sale at a higher price. Developers have based their strategy on this for years, beautifully staging their models to enhance the experience and desirability for their buyers.”
J A M E S W . B A T E S , luxury real estate specialist with Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, answers your burning real estate questions. H AV E A Q U E S T I O N F O R A S K A R E A LT O R ? Email askarealtor@gulfshorelife.com.
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Put over 30 years of successful Real Estate experience to work for you! Get started by logging onto:
www.TraceyYoung.com
LOOK Who’s Ready To SELL!
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239-209-7511 Tracey@TraceyYoung.com
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T H A N K
Y O U
T O
O U R
S P O N S O R S
F O R
T H E
WHITE PA RT Y 9 T H
T H E
A N N U A L
F U T U R E
I S
B R I G H T
A portion of ticket sales benefited The Shelter for Abused Women & Children and the Shelly Stayer Shelter for Victims of Human Trafficking and Domestic Violence. For pictures from the evening, please visit gulfshorelife.com.
of Bonita Springs
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TR ENDS
A D V E R T I S E M E N T
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4. Artist Lanie Mann’s love of color and balance are apparent in the beautifully loose and layered acrylicon-canvas Flower Child, I-IV. The happy piece is available at Gallery Vibe. 417-3450, galleryvibe.com
1. Get spotted in Buddy Love’s Candace Top. The fun Dalmation-spot print in a cool tie-waist style is available at To the Moon Boutique. 949-8200
2. This short flutter-sleeve wrap dress with flounce bottom hem is available at Jennifer’s. It is sleek with clean lines yet still cute and fun, featuring a retro dot print. 481-8582, jennifersfortmyers.com
7. These adorable fold-andpack headbands with grippers keep hairstyles both cute and neat. They’re available in a rainbow of colors and exotic prints at Whispers of Naples. 4030220, whispersofnaples. com
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6. Keep your essentials stylish and by your side with this cowhide foldover clutch. Available at Cypress and Palm Boutique. 631-2903, cypressandpalmboutique.com
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PROMOTION
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Third Street South Shopping Over 65 High-End Shops and Galleries Women’s, Men’s and Children’s Clothes, and Accessories Fine Jewelry Interiors and Gardens Antiques and Fine Art Gi and Pets Gourmet Wine and Food
Third Street South Restaurants and Cafes Nationally Awarded Restaurants and Cafes Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Live Entertainment Indoor and Outdoor Dining Fine Wine, Cra Beers and Cocktails Pet-Friendly Family and Fine Dining
Third Street South Events ird ursday on ird Live Music ursday, May 16, 6-9PM Generation Gap in the Fleischmann Courtyard ird Street South Farmer’s Market Nationally Recognized Saturday Mornings, Year-Round, 7:30-11:30AM Located during the summer months in the parking lot behind Tommy Bahama and along 13th Avenue South 228 | GULFSHORE LIFE
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“The most exquisite collection of linens and accessories for your bed, bath and table... and of course elegant lingerie.”
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H E A LT H | F I T N E S S | B E A U T Y
F E E L
COURTESY OF CARILLON MIAMI WELLNESS RESORT
ESCAPE TO A WELLNESS VACATION
G O O D
A wellness vacation is like a regular vacation, but one focused on feeling better both physically and mentally. Resorts are starting to cater to the wellness vacationer. Just across Alligator Alley, there’s the newly renovated Carillon Miami Wellness Resort (pictured), which features a 70,000-squarefoot spa, 300 fitness classes and even therapy sessions. Or, go abroad to Kamalaya in Thailand, where you can custom-create a program to help de-stress. If you tend to find you need a vacation when you get back from a vacation, these spots might be right for you.
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FEEL GOOD H E A LT H
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F I T N E S S
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DROP AND GIVE ME 40 SUNSCREEN FOR YOUR SCALP Sounds like a mess, right? But your scalp is susceptible to sun damage just like any other part of your skin. After her family suffered cancer scares, Naples native Laurie Nocera started thinking more about skin protection—and it started at the top of the head. “Everybody forgets to protect their scalp,” she says. After consulting with a cosmetic chemist, she developed ScalpForce, a spray intended for the hair and scalp to block harmful UV rays. Its natural ingredients make it non-greasy and easy to wash out.
THE HEALTHIEST COUNTRY IS ... Spain. The Bloomberg Healthiest Country Index ranked 169 countries. The United States came in 35th.
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ALIESHA LAUREN (RIGHT)
If you can, odds are you’ve got a healthy heart. A study in JAMA Network Open found that men who could do 40 pushups in a single session were significantly less likely to suffer from a heart attack or cardiovascular disease than those who could make it to only 10. This is just a correlation, the study notes, but a valuable one to give you a little insight into your heart health—and far less intensive (or costly) than the treadmill stress test or heart scan.
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FEEL GOOD H E A LT H
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F I T N E S S
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B E A U T Y
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HOUSE CALL “I’ll admit it: I’m not very healthy. I don’t exercise that much, and my diet isn’t exactly great, either. But as I’m getting older, I’m realizing that I need to shape up. What advice do you have to making that first step to getting healthier?” —Arlo G., Bonita Springs Jennifer Khosla, founder of Lean and Green Body, says: I am proud of you for acknowledging that a change needs to happen—
that’s the first step. When making a big change like this, the most important thing to do is to start small. Start by walking or jogging and tracking it on a device. Aim for logging 8,000 steps a day and gradually increasing that number every week. Diet-wise, keep a food journal tracking what you eat, how much you’re eating and how you feel afterward. Slowly begin to eliminate one “bad” item per week, whether that’s soda, fast food, processed food, and so on and so forth.
H AV E A Q U E S T I O N F O R H O U S E C A L L ? Email housecall@gulfshorelife.com.
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Dr. Glenn Woodley, DPM, AACFAS Dr. Kevin Lam, FACFAS, DABLES, DABPS 730 Goodlette Road, Suite 102 Naples, FL 34102
COVENTRY PLAZA
Dr. Rikhil Patel, DPM, AACFAS 840 111th Ave. N., Suite 3 Naples, FL 34108
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Dr. Khoa Nguyen, DPM, AACFAS 530 SE 16th Place, Suite A Cape Coral, FL 33990
1645 Colonial Blvd. Ft. Myers, FL 33907
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FOUR WAYS TO GET FIT IN MAY 11 Great Dock Canoe Race: Paddle your way to glory at
this Crayton Cove tradition. greatdockcanoeraces.com
11 Turtle Trot: The annual 5K takes runners through
the scenic Lovers Key State Park. friendsofloverskey. org 19 Zoo Yoga: Start your day with this monthly class taught among the beasts. $10 per member, $12 per non-member. napleszoo.org/yoga 23 Ancient Forest Trail Tour: Learn about Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary while getting in a good walk during this monthly event. $25. corkscrew.audubon.org
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www.aie-naples.com (239) 261-3017 info@aie-naples.com
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4/9/19 8:44 AM
IT’S NOT HALF FULL OR HALF EMPTY.
IT’S HALF PRICE.
Join us at Cocktail Hour for an all-new menu with half-priced cocktails, featured wines, and Chef-selected appetizers. All with the sounds of live entertainment that’ll make your workday escape complete.
Here’s to hos pitality NAPLES 698 4th Ave. South 239 530 3131
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www.trulucks.com
4/9/19 8:46 AM
REVIEW
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NEWS
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LISTINGS
A PPETITE FOOD M A DE FUN Seafoodfocused Mercato newcomer The Hampton Social dishes out equal parts convivial atmosphere and quality fare, like this Shelter Island Salmon. Turn the page for our full review.
BRIAN TIETZ
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HAVE A ROSÉ AND JOIN THE FUN With its delightful food and drinks, The Hampton Social has become quite the new gathering place at Mercato in Naples.
The hostess at The Hampton Social guided my dining companion and me to our table, and we wound through a strikingly cool restaurant packed with the beautiful people of Naples. They were drinking, laughing, conversing, and the din echoed off the brick walls and the ivy-covered ceiling. As we took our seats, my companion leaned across the table and delightedly declared, “Raucous!” The Hampton Social makes no secret of its convivial intentions (something that rings true in its five other locations throughout Chicago and its environs). The words “Rosé all day” are emblazoned in pink neon against a wall beside the bar, the cocktail menu reads like a recipe for a spectacular night out, and the house drink of choice is that most sociable of beverages, rosé wine. I started with a glass of the rosé of the day ($12), which came from the French Clarendelle winery, while my friend opted for the Frosé ($13), a blended frozen libation of Tito’s vodka, rosé and peach puree that was peach-forward, surprisingly dry and quite good. “I can’t really admit that I like it,” said my male friend who, despite recent advances in gender neutrality, was still embarrassed to be drinking a pink cocktail served in a coupe glass, “but I like it a lot.” We liked the food a lot, too. We shared a plate of roasted Brussels sprouts ($14) drizzled with spicy-sweet chili honey, sprinkled with chopped almonds and served in a dish smeared with herbed
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THE HAMPTON SOCIAL 9114 Strada Place, Naples, 202-2038, thehamptonsocial. com. Open Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. to midnight; Saturday, 10 a.m. to midnight; and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wheelchairaccessible. Reservations recommended.
goat cheese. The char on the Brussels sprouts was delicately accented by the sweet honey, and the effect was full and flavorful. We also split a jar of delectable bites of warm king crab meat ($22) lightly covered with melted butter and served with slices of grilled bread. We spread the crab meat on the toast and happily used the extra bread to sop up the butter in the bottom of the jar. The Hampton Social’s menu is seafood-focused, and when we asked our waitress for a fish suggestion, she unhesitatingly pointed to the salmon. “I don’t usually like salmon, but I love our version,” she said. So I ordered the Shelter Island Salmon ($26), which was served with tzatziki, roasted peppers, chickpeas, olives and asparagus. The dish was fresh and light, an excellent rendering of a classic restaurant staple. My friend, wanting to explore the non-seafood options, selected the steak frites ($29), a soymarinated skirt steak served with dressed greens, French fries and a horseradish cream sauce. The steak arrived just as he’d ordered it—rare—and the soy marinade was an apt choice for the cut. Though we neared the end of the meal, we were not quite done with the rosé. We chose the flourless chocolate cake with rosé custard sauce ($9) for dessert, and it was just the right note to end on—sweet, chocolatey and rich. And the raucous crowd of beautiful people who were there when we arrived? They were still going strong when we called it a night.
BRIAN TIETZ (5)
By Artis Henderson
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GATHER 'ROUND
Creations from Executive Corporate Chef Francis Gonzalez (above middle) and his team range from a fun jarred starter of buttery king crab (left) to a sweet finish of berry crisp (above bottom).
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A PPETITE H O T
D I S H
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Naples has been in a months-long honeymoon with this coupling of a waterfront bar and a plaza with enough gourmet food trucks to make anyone swoon. By Dorothea Hunter Sönne
When a well-designed pavilion with a sea of tables and seats got together with eight alfresco microeateries and a classy (tiki-echoing) bar, it resulted in the match made from above that is the now 6-monthold Celebration Park on Bayshore Drive. There are many reasons it’s beyond awesome and has garnered legions of fans; here are our top five. 1) Variety is the spice of a good meal. Why not chase an order of falafel with an organic Brussels sprouts salad followed by a burger smothered in a goat cheese-fig spread (or Wisconsin cheddar), each from different trucks? The aim of the semi-permanent lineup is diversity. The initial lineup, which is subject to change, has remained: Dilly’s Seafood (straightfrom-the-Gulf catches), Dutchkinz (beignets and mini-pancakes), Gigi Gourmet (Frenchie-American faves), Gyro2Go (chicken or lamb with sides), I Love Curry (and samosas and mango lassi, too!), Nawty Hogg Backyard BBQ (ribs, brisket, beans and more), Red’s Pizza (10-inch pies, toppings galore) and Smith Organics (greens, grains and sammies). 2) Location, location, location. Not only is it minutes from downtown and within walking distance of a cultural gem, Naples Botanical Garden, but all of the seats overlook a peaceful canal. Picnic tables line the water, and both the elongated bar and a bunch of four-
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top metallic tables have overhead cover in case of pesky rain or blazing rays. 3) Raising the bar. You know a place is a destination when you can take away the food and the bar is still a draw. There’s always a $6 COD, aka cocktail of the day, like a flirty passion-rita, peach sunrise or an original creation in souvenir tiki glass (think: Malibu with banana liqueur and a squeeze of pineapple and cranberry). Wine and higher-end spirits match any bar downtown, and “build your own buckets” are a hoot—five picks of either imported beer, craft suds or splits. Add in game-day-colored punches and some flat-screens and it’s the definition of fun in the (shaded) sun. 4) Come one, come all. There are manifold cuisines and libations, and the crowd also doubles as a pupu platter. Just about everyone feels comfortable here—young professionals, retirees, families, sports fanatics, music lovers (bands jam at night) and even pooches! Yes, Sunday mornings are “Brunch & Bark at the Park,” with $5 mimosas and bloody marys and free dog treats. 5) The boots on this ground were made for walking. No doubt a big reason this has been so successful is the dynamo behind it: Rebecca Maddox. She worked for years in the business world before moving to Naples and opening the hugely popular Three60Market on Bayshore Drive. When people complained about the parking situation at Celebration Park, she listened and opened adjacent lots, offering free valet, early on.
NEWS FLASH Smith Organics, a truck that has been manned by chef Michael Voorhis, the founding chef of Third Street South hot spot The Bevy, has expansion on the horizon. The menu will serve as a blueprint for Lake Park Diner, an upscale modern American comfort-food spot from developer Adam Smith that he and Voorhis are hoping to have up and running in Naples this fall.
FIND CELEBR ATION PARK: 2880 Becca Ave., Naples, 316-7253, celebrationparknaples.com. Open Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
COURTESY OF CELEBRATION PARK (TOP); COURTESY OF SMITH ORGANICS (RIGHT)
KEEP ON TRUCKING
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DINING GUIDE
A select listing of Collier and Lee County restaurants, arranged by location. AVERAGE DINNER ENTRÉE PRICE
$ $10 and less | $$ $11-15 | $$$ $16-24 | $$$$ $25 and more
NAPLES THIRD STREET SOUTH Barbatella 1290 Third St. S., 263-1955. barbatellanaples.com. Casual Italian cuisine from the people behind Sea Salt. Sample woodfired pizzas and gelato in the trendy wine bar or relaxed patio. $$$ ITALIAN
Campiello Ristorante & Bar 1177 Third St. S., 435-1166. campiello. damico.com. Italian with a contemporary interpretation in a beautiful courtyard right on Third Street South. $$$$ ITALIAN The Continental 1205 Third St. S., 659-0007. continentalnaples.com. Top-quality cuts of steak from around the globe are enhanced by modern décor, private cabanas and a “cocktail lab.” $$$$ STEAK Jane’s on 3rd Garden Cafe 1209 Third St. S., 261-2253. janesgardencafe.com. Folks come for the lobster benedict and stuffed French toast, but they stay to sit around the lovely koi fountain in a sunny patio. $$ CASUAL
Ridgway Bar & Grill 1300 Third St. S., 262-5500. ridgwaybarandgrill.com. A quintessential Old Naples restaurant with creative American fare. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Sea Salt 1186 Third St.
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S., 434-7258. seasaltnaples.com. Organic produce and naturally raised ingredients. Dedicated to seafood and its accompaniments. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
FIFTH AVENUE SOUTH Alberto’s on Fifth 868 Fifth Ave. S., 430-1060. albertosonfith.com. Classic Italian fare from Alberto Varetto, the former executive chef of Sale e Pepe on Marco. $$$ ITALIAN Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro 865 Fifth Ave. S., 594-5557. bhabhapersianbistro.com. Exquisite Persian cuisine in a jewel box of a dining room, offering a wide variety of authentic fare plus unique twists to vegetables, lamb, chicken, beef and more. $$$$ MIDDLE EASTERN/INDIAN
Bice 300 Fifth Ave. S., 262-4044. naples.bicegroup.com. Traditional cuisine: homemade pasta, veal osso buco, veal chop Milanese. $$$$ ITALIAN Bistro 821 821 Fifth Ave. S., 261-5821. bistro821.com. Kitchen open for the eyes of the customers and a menu filled with originality. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN Chops City Grill 837 Fifth Ave. S., 262-4677. chopscitygrill.com. A refreshed menu of steaks, chops and more has spiced up this Fifth Avenue South stalwart. $$$$ STEAK
The Dining Guide is based on recent reviews, editorial discretion and winners of the Best of the Gulfshore annual readers’ poll. Restaurants that regularly advertise also are included. Inclusion in the listings is subject to change and only guaranteed for advertisers. All phone numbers are area code (239) unless specified. Please email dsonne@gulfshorelife.com to report changes in a restaurant’s location, prices or menu.
The French Brasserie Rustique 365 Fifth Ave. S., 315-4019. thefrenchnaples.com. This is celebrated local chef Vincenzo Betulia’s newest eatery; expect exquisite escargots and steak tartare in a buzzworthy atmosphere. $$$ FRENCH HobNob Kitchen & Bar 720 Fifth Ave. S., Suite 101, 580-0070. hobnobnaples.com. Updated takes on classic cuisine in a cool, contemporary setting on Fifth Avenue South. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN Ocean Prime 699 Fifth Ave. S., 430-0404. ocean-prime.com. This swanky concept from national restaurateur Cameron Mitchell features a from-scratch kitchen mixing surf and turf, a beautiful dining room and attentive service. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Osteria Tulia / Bar Tulia 466 Fifth Ave. S., 213-2073. tulianaples.com. Innovative Sicilian-inspired dishes, arguably some of the best in Naples, in a rustic-chic farmhouse setting or the Bar Tulia gastropub, which has unbeatable craft cocktails. $$$ ITALIAN Pazzo! Cucina Italiana 853 Fifth Ave. S., 4348494. pazzoitaliancafe. com. Beautiful presentations and sophisticated twists on Italian favorites. An extensive renovation debuted before the end of 2018.
$$$$
ITALIAN
Sails Restaurant 301 Fifth Ave. S., 537-7227. sailsrestaurants.com. This upscale eatery and raw bar that opened last season has been impressing seafood lovers; at the far western end of Fifth Avenue South, expect unusual crudos and a large selection of international fish. $$$$ SEAFOOD
Sushi Thai Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. sushithaitoo.com. Large selection of sushi and Thai dishes. $$$ ASIAN Truluck’s 698 Fourth Ave. S., 530-3131. trulucks.com. Known for stone crabs brought in from its local boats, the fine dining locale also touts seafood from the Gulf and beyond. $$$$ SEAFOOD
Veranda E Hotel Escalante, 290 Fifth Ave. S., 659-3466. hotelescalante.com. Courtyard setting and menu with both Asian and French influences. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN DOWNTOWN NAPLES 7th Avenue Social 849 Seventh Ave. S., 2312318. 7thavenuesocial. com. Florida-inspired, inventive menu with craft cocktails in a lounge-like setting off Fifth Ave. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
The Bevy 360 12th Ave. S., 228-4220.
naplesbevy.com. Premium craft cocktails and varied influences on the menu shine through at this bar and eatery in the Third Street South area. The open-air set-up with retractable roof is nothing short of impressive, too. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
The Claw Bar 221 Ninth St. S., 231-3912. theclawbar.com. The newest restaurant from the team behind The Bay House, it’s close to downtown Naples in the Bellasera hotel, and acclaimed chef Andy Hunter is in the kitchen. Expect oysters (cold and hot), exquisite seafood masterpieces, cocktails with flair and genteel Southern charm in spades. $$$$ SEAFOOD Cosmos Café & Pizzeria 536 Ninth St. N., 262-8181. cosmospizzanaples.com. Hearty staples like lasagna, calzones, pizza and cannoli. $$$ ITALIAN La Colmar Bakery & Bistro 80 Tamiami Trail N., 315-4303. lacolmar.com. This bake shop imports pristine non-GMO Gallic flour to make all of its bread and croissants, and the lovely café resembling a French village also has a full menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. $$ FRENCH
Maria D’anna Café 300 Tamiami Trail N., 263-6892. mariadannacafe.com. Flawless, from-scratch Polish dishes and baked goods
in a charming, sunny space. $$$ EASTERN EUROPEAN
Pinchers Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Seafood from local fishermen in a super-casual and family-friendly setting. $$$ SEAFOOD The Rooster Food + Drink 600 Goodlette-Frank Road N., 228-5973. theroosternaples.com.Two fine dining chefs teamed up to open this simple breakfast and lunch spot serving not-atall-simple dishes, like braised short ribs over grits with salsa verde— and they serve dinner Tuesdays and Fridays. $$ CASUAL Timeless – an MHK Eatery 90 Ninth St. N., timelesseatery.com. Gourmet sandwiches, salads, thin-crust pizzas and modern American fare from former Truluck’s chef David Nelson is drawing diners to this restobar, which also has delivery. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
BAYFRONT K-Prime Steakhouse 403 Bayfront Place, 435-9353. kprimesteakhouse.com. At Bayfront near Fifth Avenue South sits this stately dining room with plush chairs, prime cuts and great herb-crusted prime rib. $$$$ STEAK Stoney’s Stone Crab 492 Bayfront Place, 331-
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Your Inner Gourmand at Our Waterfront Restaurants
K-Prime Steakhouse
Traditional neighborhood steakhouse dedicated to the good old days.
K-Rico Mexican Grill
All your favorites served up in a vibrant family-friendly atmosphere.
Shane’s Cabana Bar
Enjoy a cold drink on a hot day with breathtaking views and delicious bites.
Stoney’s Stone Crab
Seafood the old-school way; come socialize, celebrate and indulge.
For Reservations, Menus & Events, Visit:
bayfrontnaples.com
465 Bayfront Place
Located on Naples Bay where Goodlette-Frank Road meets 41 in Downtown; Plentiful Free Parking
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4821. stoneysstonecrab. com. Near the water at Bayfront, this well-appointed restaurant and bar offers seafood specialties beyond its namesake local stone crabs. $$$$ SEAFOOD CRAYTON COVE
Summer Promotional Menu
Offering 3 course early menu from 5 to 6 p.m. for $35
(Served from 5 to 6 pm daily) Starting May 15th
Bleu Provence 1234 Eighth St. S., 261-8239. bleuprovencenaples. com. Take a tour of southern France in the heart of Old Naples. With amazing food and a stunning wine list, it’s consistently one of the Gulfshore’s best restaurants. $$$$ FRENCH Chez Boet 755 12th Ave. S., 643-6177. chezboetnaples.com. French staples with a personal touch from the husband-wife owners, plus a full bar. $$$$ FRENCH
The Dock at Crayton Cove 845 12th Ave. S., 263-9940. dockcraytoncove.com. A laidback spot for Florida seafood on Naples Bay. $$$ SEAFOOD
CH I NA B I ST RO
EAST NAPLES
CHEF OWNED WITH 38 YEARS EXPERIENCE
21 Spices by Chef Asif 4270 Tamiami Trail E., 919-8830. 21spicesdining.com. This isn’t your average curry house (although you can get great chicken tikka masala and garlic naan)—expect soaring ceilings, sleek décor and a full bar. $$$
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK. Monday - Sunday 4:30 to 9:30 pm
omeinaples.com
WE MAKE THE BEST PEKING DUCK! OUR FOOD IS MADE WITH THE FRESHEST INGREDIENTS. FULL BAR & PATIO SEATING.
NAPLES CENTRE VILLAGES 6434 Naples Boulevard, Unit 406 Naples, Florida 34109
MIDDLE EASTERN/INDIAN
Kareem’s Lebanese Kitchen 4270 Tamiami Trail E., 315-4167. kareemskitchen.com. Middle Easterners rave about the authenticity of the dishes here, from seven types of hummus and other meze to composed entrées like roasted chicken with za’atar-spiced potatoes and kibbeh with yogurt and pomegranate seeds. $$$ MIDDLE EASTERN/ INDIAN
LowBrow Pizza & Beer 3148 Tamiami Trail E., 529-6919. lowbrowpizzaandbeer. com. Gourmet pies with artisanal cheeses and unique toppings made from scratch are fired in a wood-burning oven and served with craft brews in a frat-like setting (the snarky jokestrewn menu is a hoot). $$ ITALIAN Rumba Cuban Café 1265 Airport-Pulling Road S., 659-2996. rumbacubancafe.com. Classic Cuban cuisine with a few fun twists and very attentive service. $$$ SPANISH/ LATIN AMERICAN
MIDTOWN Alexander’s 4077 Ninth St. N., 262-4999. alexandersnaples.com. The menu is filled with tastes from around the world presented in a modern café atmosphere. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Andre’s Steakhouse 2800 Tamiami Trail N., 263-5851. If you’re a fan of Peter Luger, opt for this tiny joint founded by one of its former chefs. $$$$ STEAK Cibao Grille 814 Neapolitan Way, 4346653. cibaogrille.com. Caribbean dishes from the owners’ roots in the Dominican Republic mix with American classics. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN D’Amico & Sons 4691 Ninth St. N., 430-0955. damicoandsons.com. Known for wood-fired pizzas and parmigianas—and the $8.99 “endless wine” to go with them. $$$ ITALIAN Dorona 2110 Tamiami Trail N., 529-2819. doronanaples.com. In this upscale-casual eatery from the same owners as Sea Salt and Barbatella, the Italian flair is felt throughout,
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with rosemary roasted potatoes accompanying every steak. $$$$ STEAK Escargot 41 4339 Tamiami Trail N., 793-5000. escargot41. com. Traditional French restaurant with a large wine list. $$$ FRENCH Fernández the Bull 3375 Pine Ridge Road, 653-9097; 1201 Piper Blvd., Naples, 254-9855. fernandezthebull.com. Serving authentic Cuban dishes, such as roasted pork and black beans, since 1985. $$ SPANISH/ LATIN AMERICAN
Food & Thought 2132 Tamiami Trail N., 213-2222. foodandthought.com. The organic grocery store and counter-service café with a tree-shaded courtyard is not strictly vegetarian but has a full menu of entrées and raw and vegan options. $ VEGETARIAN
Fujiyama 2555 Tamiami Trail N., 2614332. naplesfujiyama. com. Japanese master chefs prepare and serve dinners with flair at your hibachi table; there is also a great sushi selection. $$$ ASIAN FUSE Global Cuisine / FUSE BBQ 2500 U.S. 41 N., 455-4585. fusenaples.com. Chef Greg Scarlatos blends cuisines from around the world into a cohesive menu at the fine-dining Fuse. In 2018, he expanded his reach, adding an insanely good casual barbecue eatery next door. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Harold’s Place 2555 Tamiami Trail N., 263-7254. naplesharoldsplace.com. This chickee bar in a lush tropical setting also serves an award-winning charbroiled burger. $ CASUAL Jimmy P’s Butcher Shop & Deli 1833 Tamiami Trail N., 643-6328. jimmypsbutchershop.com. Wagyu burgers, subs and barbecue classics from the counter (or
with table service), along with take-home exotic cuts of meat. A second location opened in Bonita Springs last season. $$ CASUAL Jimmy P’s Charred 1833 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, 643-2427; 25301 U.S. 41 S., Bonita Springs, 390-0301. jimmypscharred.com. This is the intimate, casually elegant steakhouse specializing in wagyu beef under the same direction and roof as Naples’ favorite butcher. Now, for 2019, there is a second location in Bonita Springs. $$$$ STEAK
Lamoraga 3936 U.S. 41 N., 331-3669, lamoragarestaurant.com. Contemporary upscale twists on Spanish favorites plus other small plates. $$$$ SPANISH/ LATIN AMERICAN
The Local 5323 Airport-Pulling Road, 596-3276. thelocalnaples.com. Fresh, healthy cuisine locally sourced from farm and sea. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Martin Fierro 13040 Livingston Road, 300-4777. martinfierrorestaurant.com. Authentic Argentinian and Uruguyan parrillada with tons of grilled grass-fed beef and tango music. $$$ SPANISH/ LATIN AMERICAN
grub and casual latenight eats, including oysters, wings and burgers. $$ BAR BITES Shula’s 5111 U.S. 41 N., 430-4999. donshula. com. Classic steakhouse fare from Hall of Fame Coach Don Shula. $$$$ STEAK
Swan River Seafood and Fish Market 3741 Tamiami Trail N., 4037000. swanriverseafood. com. The restaurant serves Cape Cod-style seafood, and the market stocks a variety of fresh catches plus Angus beef, wine and more. $$$ SEAFOOD
USS Nemo 3745 Tamiami Trail N., 261-6366. ussnemorestaurant.com. Masterful creations using fresh seafood, many with Asian accents, from a classically trained chef who is among the best in Southwest Florida. $$$ SEAFOOD Yard House 4251 Tamiami Trail N., yardhouse.com. The first Southwest Florida branch of a national chain known for its extensive selection of draft beers and smorgasbord of pub grub opened in Park Shore in early 2019. $$ BAR BITES THE VILLAGE SHOPS ON VENETIAN BAY
Moura Bistro 3369 Pine Ridge Road, 738-8883. mourabistro. com. A tiny storefront is delivering a limited yet flavorful selection of Lebanese fare, including falafel, hummus, tabouleh, shawarma and shish kebabs. $$$ MIDDLE
Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar 4270 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 649-5552. baysideseafoodgrillandbar. com. More than 200 feet of waterfront dining, inside or out. The upper deck bar has live music. $$$$ SEAFOOD
EASTERN/INDIAN
M Waterfront Grille
O’mei 6434 Naples Blvd., Suite 406, 6315633. omeinaples.com. O’mei’s Peking duck and other Chinese fare is among Naples’ best, made with the freshest ingredients. $$$ ASIA Pelican Larry’s Raw Bar Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pelicanlarrys.com. Locals flock here for dependable pub
4300 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 263-4421. mwaterfrontgrille. com. Organic meat, seafood and produce; main dining room with bay views, plus a full bar and front terrace. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
MiraMare Ristorante
4236 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 430-6273. miramarenaples.com.
Come for the gorgeous corner waterfront patio on Venetian Bay; stay for large portions of calamari and chicken francese.
$$$
ITALIAN
T-Michael’s Steak and Lobster House 4050
Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 261-0622. t-michaels. com. Steakhouse dining on the waterfront at The Village on Venetian Bay, featuring USDA prime meats and Maine lobster.
$$$$
A Warm Welcome Awaits You... Voted Best Seafood & Best Kept Secret Gulfshore Life Magazine
STEAK
WATERSIDE SHOPS True Food Kitchen
5375 Tamiami Trail, 431-4580. truefoodkitchen.com. The majority of the menu at this upscale chain caters to vegetarians, but it’s a perfect place for flexitarian food lovers who are looking for a healthy and satisfying meal while at Waterside Shops.
$$$
VEGETARIAN
NORTH NAPLES Agave Bar & Grill
2380 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 598-3473. agavenaples.com. A recent menu overhaul hallmarked a return to its Mexican roots and brought back tableside guacamole. $$$
MEXICAN
Baleen La Playa Beach & Golf Resort, 9891 Gulf Shore Drive, 598-5707. laplayaresort.com. A beautiful beachfront wraparound terrace sets the stage for a night of creative cuisine (breakfast and lunch are also served daily).
$$$$
MODERN AMERICAN
The Bay House / The Claw Bar at Tierney’s Tavern 799 Walker-
bilt Road, 591-3837. bayhousenaples. com. It’s almost as if it’s two restaurants under one roof that happen to share the same delectable Southern-influenced
New Location. Splashy New Space & Bar. Same Great Menu. All Your Beloved Classics. Incomparable Service. • Pet-Friendly • • Indoor & Outdoor Dining • • Extensive Wine List • • Upscale Island Casual • Open Daily Lunch: 11:30 am – 4 pm Wine & Cheese: 4 pm – 5 pm Dinner: 5 pm – 10 pm (239) 472-6200 11508 Andy Rosse Ln. Captiva Island, FL RestaurantsOnCaptiva.com
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0 5. 2 019 menu—there’s an elegant formal dining room with panoramic views fronting a scenic mangrove-lined waterway, and conjoined to it is a rustic tavern and bar with live music every night (the food is equally good at both).
$$$$
$5 SELECT WINE BY THE GLASS $5 CRAFT COCKTAILS Manhattan Old Fashioned Dirty Martini Ultimate Cosmo Shula’s Classics SPECIALLY PRICED BAR BITES
SEAFOOD
Black Forest Mill 2366
Immokalee Road, 5924784. Classic German and Austrian dishes in an intimate setting in the Green Tree Plaza.
$$$
EVERYDAY 3 PM - 6 PM
G U I D E
EASTERN EUROPEAN
Bone Hook Brewing Co. 1514 Immokalee
Road, 631-8522. bonehookbrewing. com.Newly renovated and expanded, this well-respected North Naples microbrewery now has a taproom with a full kitchen, table service and pub grub to match. $$ BAR
BITES
Café Gourmand 9853
Tamiami Trail N., 2607109. cafegourmand. net. The best selection of crêpes in Naples comes from the French family that owns this quaint daytime spot; on weekends, white table cloths come out at night for formal (yet reasonably priced) dinner service. $$
FRENCH
Cote d’ Azur 11224
Tamiami Trail N., 5978867. cotedazurrestaurant.com. Delectable French cuisine offering everything from filet mignon to quail in a cozy Provençal setting.
$$$$
FRENCH
The Crust 8004 Trail
Located at the Hilton Naples 5111 Tamiami Trail North Reservations 239.430.4999 Private Dining 239.659.3176
www.ShulasNaples.com
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Blvd., 244-8488. thecrustpizza.net. Super-casual, with a huge bar with games on TV, it’s one of Naples’ most popular
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pizza joints, specializing in thin-crust shareable pies cut into bite-size squares. The only other menu items are salads and subs.
$$
ITALIAN
DaRuMa Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Lounge 241 Center
St. N., 591-1200; 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers, 344-0037. darumarestaurant. com. Traditional service or Teppan-style tableside cooking. Teriyaki steak, filet mignon, chicken, seafood, tempura, sushi and more. $$$$ ASIAN
Dusk 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 598-6644. ritzcarlton.com. Known to locals as having some of the freshest and most intriguing sushi options around, this lounge in The Ritz-Carlton, Naples is full of dark corners and couches— or you can opt to sit on the patio overlooking the Gulf. $$$$ ASIAN Grain De Café 8803
Tamiami Trail N., 594-8081.Slogging through the often-long cashier line is worth it for the freshest pain au chocolat, almond croissants, quiches and crêpes for breakfast, lunch and take-out in North Naples. $$
1514 Immokalee Road, Naples, 234-2442; 3300 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs, 948-4663. komoonthai.com. A fun mix of Thai, Japanese and Peruvian (ceviche plus a few hot entrées) in an inviting setting. $$ ASIAN
Namba 8847 Tamiami Trail N., 592-4992. nambanaples.com. This tiny eatery is home to some of the Gulfshore’s most inspired Japanese fare; the menu is limited to a small yet remarkable selection of ramen, sushi and small plates.
$$$
ASIAN
Parmesan Pete’s 7935
Airport-Pulling Road, 992-3663. parmesanpetes.com. A small but always dependable red sauce joint serving huge portions of Parmesans, meatballs and manicotti. $$$
ITALIAN
The Turtle Club 9225
Gulfshore Drive, 5926557. windwardhospitality.com. Upscale casual beachfront restaurant offering coastal cuisine. $$$$
SEAFOOD
derbilt Beach Road, 598-6644. ritz-carlton. com. Located in The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, this steakhouse evokes the ambience of a modern, elegant private club. $$$$ STEAK
Komoon Thai Sushi & Ceviche 1575 Pine
Ridge Road, 596-9991;
Zen Asian BBQ 10823
Tamiami Trail N., 260-7037. eatatzen. com. Try this trendy noodle bar and Korean barbecue joint with a master sushi chef for pairings like spicy tuna with crème fraîche and a bulgogi ramen “nacho.” $$$
ASIAN
MERCATO Cavo Lounge 9108
Strada Place, 4318706. cavolounge.com. A Mercato hangout that features global small plates and a DJ that spins late into the night—plus drag brunches some weekends. $$ BAR BITES
The Hampton Social
Rocco’s Tacos 9123 Strada Place, 5008226. roccostacos. com/naples. It’s a perpetual party at this lively joint where the food is just as good as the libations (there are more than 400 tequilas!)—and the kitchen is open deep into the night. $$$ MEXICAN THE PAVILION Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 8985 Tamiami Trail N., 598-2424. flemingssteakhouse. com. This outpost of the upscale chain is a local favorite, with an expansive dining room and wine list. $$$$ STEAK Inca’s Kitchen 8955 Tamiami Trail N., 631-5954. incaskitchens.com. Top-quality authentic Peruvian cuisine in a spacious and sleek dining room. $$$ SPANISH/LATIN AMERICAN
FRENCH
The Grill 280 Van-
cial.com. Mercato’s latest large-scale eatery is a beautifully designed export from The Windy City channeling coastal living at its finest; a chic rosé-all-day bar scene is complemented by reasonably priced seafood. $$$ SEAFOOD
9114 Strada Place, 2022038. thehamptonso-
KC American Bistro 885 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 566-2371. kcamericanbistro.com. Fresh, seasonal, regional American cuisine in a casually elegant setting. In 2019, a second location will open in Estero. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Tacos & Tequila Cantina 8971 Tamiami Trail N., 254-8226; 4834 Davis Blvd., Naples, 732-8226; 10952 Eagle Village Drive, Fort Myers, 3308226. tacosandtequilanaples.com. Killer tacos with lots of clever spins, plus margaritas aplenty, at this cute, festive spot. $$ MEXICAN GALLERIA SHOPPES AT VANDERBILT Alpine Restaurant 2355 Vanderbilt
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Beach Road, Suite 158, 325-9499. alpineofnaples.com. The best of German, Slovak, Czech, Polish and Hungarian cuisines in one place. $$$ EASTERN EUROPEAN The Cave Bistro & Wine Bar 2343 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 513-0095. napleswinecollection.com. This ode to the underground wine cellars of Burgundy, complete with a curved ceiling and stonework, has a full liquor license and menu of Continental small plates. $$$ BAR BITES
Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 631-6844. facebook. com/misterO1naples. The name isn’t hyperbole: Even though there isn’t much aside from the various ultra-thin-crust pies, they are enough to make this a new regular stop for foodies. $$ ITALIAN
Poached 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, 593-0770; 24600 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, 221-8256; 15215 Collier Blvd., Naples, 919-3533. breakfastnaples.com. Creative ways to start the day, from a banana oatmeal brûlée to a veggie wrap with pesto aioli. (No dinner.) $ CASUAL
BONITA SPRINGS Angelina’s Ristorante 24041 Tamiami Trail S., 390-3187. angelinasofbonitasprings. com. Fine dining in plush banquettes with an award-winning wine list makes this one of the area’s top restaurants. $$$$ ITALIAN C Level Bistro & Wine Bar 4450 Bonita Beach Road, 221-7046. c-levelbar.com. Quiet and effortlessly refined, this intimate eatery is dependable for Continental fare like steak au poivre and raspberry duck. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN Coconut Jack’s 5370 Bonita Beach Road, 6767777. coconutjacks.com. Beautiful water views in
a casual setting off Bonita Beach Road. Perfect for a quick bite around sunset. $$$ SEAFOOD DeRomo’s Gourmet Market & Restaurant 26811 South Bay Drive, 325-3583. deromos. com. This chic sit-down restaurant with a big-city vibe and pretty patio is part and parcel of a gargantuan Italian market featuring fresh pastas, cheeses, baked goods and more. $$$ ITALIAN
Figs Grille 25987 S. Tamiami Trail, 390-1700. figsgrille. com. Refreshing fusion of Spanish, Turkish, Moroccan, Lebanese and French cuisines. $$$
and much more!
MEDITERRANEAN
The Other Side Bistro 24630 S. Tamiami Trail, 992-7433. bonitaspringsbistro.com. Chef Brian McCarley has been serving consistently comforting dishes with a modern flair for years at this understated space in the northern reach of Bonita Springs. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
141 Tamiami Trail North • Naples, Florida 34102 • 239.261.7157 • Fax: 239.261.3986 wynns@wynnsonline.com
Petar’s Restaurant 3300 Bonita Beach Road, Unit 120, 494-1343. petarsrestaurant.com. The talented young chef Petar Al Kurdi has developed a strong following for his deftly and cleverly prepared continental cuisine. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Roy’s Restaurant 26831 South Bay Drive, 498-7697. roysrestaurant.com. Celebrity chef Roy Yamaguchi’s Hawaiian and Pacific fusion fine-dining outpost is great for an elegant evening at the Promenade in Bonita Springs. $$$$ ASIAN A Table Apart 4295 Bonita Beach Road, 2218540. atableapart.com. One of Bonita Springs’ best restaurants fuses influences from throughout the Pacific Rim. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Tarpon Bay Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, 5001 Coconut Road, 3904295. Elegant waterfront
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• Bakery • Catering • Charcuterie • USDA Prime Beef • Fine Wines • Florals & Gifts • Gourmet Foods • Local Produce • Local Seafood • Meals to Go • Sandwiches • Home Delivery
NAPLES . FT. MYERS . SARASOTA
241 Center Street N, Naples, Florida 34108 239-591-1200 13499 South Cleveland Ave, Ft Myers, Florida 33907 239-344-0037 5459 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, Florida 34232 941-342-6600 4910 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34231 941-552-9465
www.DaRuMaRestaurant.com
4/9/19 8:48 AM
FishTaleGrill.com FishTaleGrill.com
Fresh FishTaleGrill.com Fabulous Seafood Fresh Fabulous Seafood Fresh Fabulous Seafood G R I L L
FISH FISH FISH
TALE TALE TALE
BY MERRICK SEAFOOD
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BY MERRICK SEAFOOD
A PPETITE D I N I N G
Mad Fresh Bistro 12995 Cleveland Ave., 362-2363. madfreshbistro.com. A tiny eatery delivering outsized flavor in tartines, salads and burgers. $$ ITALIAN
G U I D E
0 5. 2 019
BY MERRICK SEAFOOD
FRESH 11AM-9PM | Mon.-Sat. FRESH| Sun. 10AM-8PM FRESH
FABULOUS ALL YOU CAN EAT FABULOUS SUNDAY BRUNCH BUFFET FABULOUS Open Monday-Saturday 11-9 Twilight Wine & Dine is Back Bottomless Starting September 16 10am -1pm
Bloody Mary’s 2 Dinners andSunday a Bottle of AllBottomless You Can$Eat Brunch 95 $18 Mimosas 24 Wine for only $42. $15 Live Music Monday-Thursday Friday Saturday 6-9 SEAFOOD 3 - 6 PM 239.257.3167 SEAFOOD per person
SEAFOOD FABULOUS SEAFOOD
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Come See Our Fresh Seafood Market! Open 9-6PM | Mon.-Sat. 10AM-5PM | Sun.
dining with a focus on fish and shellfish. $$$$
FORT MYERS
SEAFOOD
SOUTH FORT MYERS
Wylds Café 4271 Bonita Beach Road, 9470408. wyldscafe.com. Three chefs join forces for a modern American fine-dining experience at a reasonable price. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Zorba’s Mediterranean Grille & Bar 9106 Bonita Beach Road, 992-5005. zorbasgrille. com. One of the only upscale-casual Greek places here; great saganaki and souvlaki (with some Italian options, too). $$$ MEDITERRANEAN
ESTERO Divieto Ristorante 23161 Village Shops Way, 390-2977. divietoristorante.com. Located in Coconut Point, it is known for fettucine Alfredo prepared in a hollowed-out Parmesan wheel. $$$ ITALIAN
FORT MYERS BEACH Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille Multiple locations throughout Lee County. docfordsfortmyersbeach.com. docfordssanibel.com. Seafood, mojitos and its namesake rum bar. $$$ SEAFOOD Fresh Catch Bistro 3040 Estero Blvd., 4632600. freshcatchbistro. com. A notch above the more casual fare on the beach without feeling stuffy. $$$ SEAFOOD PierSide Grill & Famous Blowfish Bar 1000 Estero Blvd., 7657800. piersidegrill.com. Its perch overlooking the shore is attractive for beachy drinks and bites of crab cakes, coconut shrimp and more. $$$ SEAFOOD
1229 SE 47th Terrace, Cape Coral
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Bonefish Grill Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee Counties. bonefishgrill.com. Fish comes first at this popular chain; choose from multiple catches, sauces and preparations. $$$ SEAFOOD
Ember Korean Steakhouse 7091 College Parkway, 771-8818. New for 2019, this contemporary restaurant features a wide variety of quality eats, from tabletop barbecue to well-executed fusion dishes. $$$ ASIAN Fancy’s Southern Café 8890 Salrose Lane, 561-2988. fancyssoutherncafe.com. Classic Southern favorites from fried okra to shrimp and grits served in a casually elegant atmosphere. $$ MODERN AMERICAN
Harold’s 15250 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 107, 8490622. haroldscuisine. com. A cozy bistro with seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine from innovative chef Harold Balink. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
La Trattoria Café Napoli Villas Plaza, 12377 S. Cleveland Ave., 931-0050. latrattoriacafenapoli.com. Known for chef-owner Gloria’s paella, this Spanish restaurant also features a variety of tapas, pasta, meat and seafood dishes. $$$ MEDITERRANEAN
Osteria Cellis 15880 Summerlin Road, 2671310. osteriacelli.com. Authentic, freshly made pastas are a highlight of this upscale casual eatery. $$$ ITALIAN The Saucy Meatball 12401 Commerce Lakes Drive, 800-7172. saucymeatball.com. A younger sister in the Gateway neighborhood to the long popular 2 Meatballs in the Kitchen, this industrial-chic pizzeria also has craveworthy pasta dishes, salads, entrées and complimentary garlic knots. $$ ITALIAN Silk Road 8646 Gladiolus Drive, 689-4845. Specializing in Central Asian cuisine, this restaurant takes diners on a rewarding epicurean journey with Uzbek delicacies and traditional food and wine offerings from throughout the region. $$ ASIAN Viet Village 16571 S. Tamiami Trail, 208-8368. vietvillagefl.com. After an extensive renovation, this lovely Vietnamese restaurant opened in 2018 to critical acclaim; don’t miss the rare-beef pho and the special rice cooked in a clay pot. $$
ASIAN
BELL TOWER SHOPS Society 13499 Bell Tower Drive, 334-0900. societyfortmyers.com. The hot spot features contemporary cuisine and killer cocktails (plus, it turns into a nightclub after-hours). Don’t skip the “treehouse” rooftop bar. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
CENTRAL FORT MYERS Blu Agave 4805 S.
239.542.8080
1229 SE 47th Terrace, Cape Coral 1229 SE 47th Terrace, Cape Coral 1229 SE 47th Terrace, Cape Coral
Artisan Eatery 8951 Daniels Parkway, 8874844. artisaneatery. com. Don’t be fooled by the counter service, soda machine and postage stamp size of this café— the outstanding egg Benedicts, sandwiches, flatbreads and daily chef’s specials are delights. $$ CASUAL
Origami 8911 Daniels Parkway, Suite 5, 4822126. sushiorigami.com. Korean, Japanese and sushi bar. $$$ ASIAN
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Cleveland Ave., 362-1102; 1404 Cape Coral Parkway E., Cape Coral, 4712075. bluagavemexicanrestaurant.com. From tacos and enchiladas to margaritas and flan, this winsome Mexican place is tastefully decorated in shades of azul. $$ LATIN AMERICAN
Chef Brooke’s Natural Café 1850 Boy Scout Drive, 332-2433. chefbrookeonline.com. Organic, gluten-free and vegan-friendly cuisine. Open until 5 p.m. $$ VEGETARIAN
El Gaucho Inca 4391 Colonial Blvd., 275-7504. elgauchoinca.com. Traditional Argentinian (including the Italian specialties popular there) and Peruvian food prepared to perfection. The warm service, with a personal touch, is also a delight. $$ LATIN AMERICAN
Ginger Bistro 4650 Cleveland Ave., 689-3113; 2366 Surfside Blvd., Cape Coral, 558-8865. gingerbistrousa.com. Authentic Chinese fare, including dim sum and traditional Cantonese barbecue. $$ ASIAN KJ’s Steakhouse 10950 S. Cleveland Ave., 2754745. kjsfreshgrill.com. The creators behind this contemporary upscale-casual chophouse and burger heaven pride themselves on aging and a 900-degree searing technique, plus a fully stocked bar. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Mina’s Bistro 4391 Colonial Blvd., 225-1139. minasbistro.com. Cozy and dependable for a great meal, whether you order from the Italian half of the menu or the exciting “Latin” section—which is code for delectable Ecuadorian specialties. $$$ LATIN AMERICAN
Sasse’s Restaurant 3651 Evans Ave., Suite 101, 278-5544. sassesfortmyers.com. Northern Italian and European cuisine cooked in a wood-burning oven to critical and popular acclaim. $$$$ ITALIAN
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MCGREGOR CORRIDOR Azure 15301 McGregor Blvd., 288-4296. azurefortmyers.com. At this casual fine-dining boîte, chef Joe Pittman, formerly of Mereday’s Fine Dining, excels at modernized classics. $$$ ITALIAN Blanc 13451 McGregor Blvd., 887-3139. blancentertainment. com. This contemporary restaurant mixes trends like sous vide and robata grilling with a strong French influence. $$ MODERN AMERICAN
Cibo 12901 McGregor Blvd., 454-3700. Italian restaurant featuring seafood, steak and pasta. Many wine selections. $$$ ITALIAN Crave Restaurant 12901 McGregor Blvd., 466-4663. cravemenu. com. The chef and owner of Crave makes all of his killer comfort food from scratch down to the deli meat for daily breakfasts and lunches (and dinners select nights of the week). $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Deep Lagoon Seafood & Fish Market 14040 McGregor Blvd., 6895474; 10395 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, 6316266. deeplagoon.com. A fresh concept from the family behind Pinchers, the North Naples location is decidedly more casual with an extensive seafood market; in Fort Myers, the newly constructed waterfront spot distinguishes itself with a raw bar, modern décor and scenic marina views. $$$ SEAFOOD Roadhouse Café 15660 San Carlos Blvd., Suite 36, 415-4375. roadhousecafefl.com. Live jazz is a big draw, and there’s something for everyone, with steaks among a wide range of dishes. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
DOWNTOWN FORT MYERS Bullig Coffee & Bites 1815 Fowler St., 7032629. facebook.com/
staytrueandbeme. Thoroughly modern, with a whimsical touch, Bullig has bespoke lattes that are works of drinkable art, and savory and sweet waffles (and more) that are a great way to fuel your day. (Not open past 3 p.m.) $ CASUAL
Siam Thai & Sushi 13161 N. Cleveland Ave., Suite B4, 995-5002. Try the Yum seafood salad or the pad see ew with tofu or shrimp. $$$ ASIAN
Ford’s Garage Multiple locations throughout Lee County. fordsgaragefl.com. A gourmet burger bar with a big selection of craft beers and spirits. $$ CASUAL
Bleu Rendez-Vous French Bistro 2430 Periwinkle Way, 5651608. bleurendezvous. com. Chef Christian Vivet’s intimate French bistro serving authentic cuisine. $$$$ ITALIAN
Izzy’s Fish & Oyster 2282 First St., Fort Myers, 337-4999. izzysftmyers.com. A formerly Miami-based chef relocated his chic raw bar and New England-style seafood spot to the River District. $$$ SEAFOOD The Standard 1520 Broadway, 219-6463. thestandardftmyers. com. An independent eatery in the River District boasting fresh and from-scratch eats in a convivial atmosphere for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Twisted Vine Bistro 2214 Bay St., 226-1687. twistedvinebistro.com. An eclectic menu featuring twists on classic grill and seafood favorites. Plus a large wine and cheese selection. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
The Veranda 2122 Second St., Fort Myers, 332-2065. verandarestaurant.com. Fort Myers’ Grande Dame, it’s where to dine on filet mignon and veal surrounded by lush foliage. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN NORTH FORT MYERS Rosy Tomorrows Heritage Farm 8250 Nalle Grande Road, 567-6000. rosy-tomorrows.com. Breakfast and lunch Thursday through Sunday is a unique treat—a renowned chef heads the kitchen, and as you graze you can see the humanely raised longhorn cattle, hogs, chickens and more doing the same right in front of you. $$ CASUAL
SANIBEL ISLAND
Il Cielo 1244 Periwinkle Way, 472-5555. ilcielosanibel.com. The modern American fare (with a subtle Italian influence) is all made in-house down to the desserts, and this is one of the most elegant dining rooms in Lee County, with top-notch service to match. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
The Mad Hatter 6467 Sanibel Captiva Road, 472-0033. madhatterrestaurant.com. Whimsical, exquisite fine dining from amuse bouche to sweet ending. Arrive early for a glass of wine on the sand (no outdoor seats). $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Sweet Melissa’s Café 1625 Periwinkle Way, 472-1956. sweetmelissascafe.com. Chef Melissa Talmage’s creative cuisine is not to be missed, from crawfish ravioli with farro to ginger-soy short ribs. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
T2 2340 Periwinkle Way, 558-8919. t2traders.com. The younger, more intimate sibling of Traders, an island institution, this retro-chic dining room and bar are home to bonafide scrumptious cocktails and dishes like white gazpacho, tacos with roasted corn salsa, shortrib flatbreads, curried snapper and house-made bread pudding. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
CAPTIVA ISLAND
Fort Myers with a manmade beach and resort pool. $$ SEAFOOD
Keylime Bistro at Captiva Island Inn 11509 Andy Rosse Lane, 395-4000. keylimebistrocaptiva.com. Colorful, with an island feel, and serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with a full bar. $$$ MODERN
Cork Soakers Deck & Wine Bar 837 SE 47th Terrace, 5426622. corksoakers.net. Delightfully irreverent tone shows in décor (cheeky photographs and minimal indoor seating) and menu (“The Hangover” sandwich and curry-brined wings). $$
AMERICAN
The Mucky Duck 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, 4723434. muckyduck.com. British pub atmosphere with seafood platters; beers and live music on the beach. $$$ CASUAL RC Otter’s Island Eats 11506 Andy Rosse Lane, 395-1142. captivaislandinn.com. This family-friendly restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner to the tune of daily live music in a colorful space just steps from the beach. $$ CASUAL
Sunshine Seafood Café and Wine Bar 11508 Andy Rosse Lane, 472-6200. sunshineseafoodcafe.com. This restaurant that has long stood a step above the rest of the island’s beachy cafés with selections like paella and rack of lamb has a modern-yet-charming new home post-Hurricane Irma. $$$$ SEAFOOD
CAPE CORAL Aji Limon Multiple locations throughout Lee and Collier counties. ajilimonperuviancuisine.com. Based in Cape Coral with now five locations, including a relatively new one in Bonita Springs, this Peruvian café specializes in plates the way abuela would make them—tasty, homey and hearty, with little fuss. $$ LATIN AMERICAN
BoatHouse Tiki Bar & Grill 5819 Driftwood Parkway, 945-2628; 17101 State Road 31, Fort Myers, 332-2628. boathouseusa.com. Fresh seafood at the Cape Coral Yacht Club includes boat-in options, and they’ll cook your catch. A sister restaurant opened summer 2018 in
MODERN AMERICAN
Fathoms Restaurant & Bar 5785 Cape Harbour Drive, 542-0123. fathomsrestaurant.com. A modern, casual Cape Harbour restaurant serving cuisine with international influences and authentic flavors. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN Fish Tale Grill By Merrick Seafood 1229 SE 47th Terrace, 542-8080. Open for lunch and dinner. Starting with fresh fish from the adjacent market, many popular items here, like coconut shrimp, seared ahi and blackened mahi mahi, earn descriptions like “the best I ever ate” from diners who voyage to this understated spot on the Cape. $$$$ SEAFOOD Gather 5971 Silver King Blvd., 673-9939. gathercape.com. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner in season, this eclectic spot at Tarpon Point Marina is from two of the Cape’s most celebrated chefs, and it is excelling at one-ofa-kind cocktails and global fare. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Marker 92 Waterfront Bar & Bistro / Nauti Mermaid 5961 Silver King Blvd., 541-5600. marker92.com. Sit outside for serene views of an open bay and tasty sandwiches and entrées. (Ignore the fact it’s in a hotel; the grounds are open to the public.) $$$ SEAFOOD
Nevermind 927 E. Cape Coral Parkway. nevermindanimalhouse.com. Ignore the gritty exposed piping and you’re in for seriously good comfort food and stiff cocktails
FOR MORE DINING OPTIONS, GO TO GULFSHORELIFE.COM/RESTAURANT-GUIDE.
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into the wee hours. $$ MODERN AMERICAN
Point 57 Kitchen & Cocktails 3522 Del Prado Blvd., 471-7785. point-57.com. A Southern influence pervades the limited yet critically acclaimed menu at this upscale-casual eatery that has emerged as one of Lee County’s best— don’t miss the artfully crafted cocktails, either. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN Rumrunners 5848 Cape Harbour Drive, 542-0200. rumrunnersrestaurant.com. On a picturesque mangrove-lined canal, this laidback indooroutdoor spot offers dependable fare. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Slate’s 4820 Candia St., 540-6800. slatescapecoral.com. A trip to New Orleans on a plate, the Crescent City is evoked in all dishes from the traditional to the inventive. It also added a jazz lounge this year. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Taverna Wood Fire Kitchen 1227 Miramar St., 257-1825. What looks like an upscale-casual pizza place is offering some of Lee County’s most creative dishes, from smoked octopus with fingerling potatoes to baked gnocchi with clams (and, to boot, excellent pizza). $$ ITALIAN Two Sisters Vietnamese Cuisine 1311 S. Del Prado Blvd., 573-6360. twosistersvietnamese.com. Delectable, authentic, affordable pho and more is a family effort at this charming and well-appointed spot. $$ ASIAN
PINE ISLAND Tarpon Lodge Restaurant 13771 Waterfront Drive, 283-3999. tarponlodge.com. What can feel like a civilization away on sleepy Pine Island is a waterfront restaurant, at an Old Florida inn with a lovely enclosed porch, serving fresh catches and favorites from the land. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
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SCAD
, THE FUTURE
OF FASHION IS NOW.” Izzy Bautista
B.F.A. fashion
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A RT S + L E ISU R E MAY CALENDAR | PARTIES
LOV E A N D L IGH T
Oil on canvas All We Need by Mikhail Shapovalenko joins other impressionist paintings depicting Crimea in Taurida— Land of Taurus, showing April 3-17 at East West Fine Art.
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See works like Old Naples House #774 (right) by Natalie Guess at the GuessFisher Gallery exhibit Back in Time beginning May 11. Latin pop artist Chayanne (opposite) performs May 9 at Hertz Arena.
MUSEUMS & GALLERIES AH TAH THI KI MUSEUM Through 5/12 In the
museum’s Mosaic Gallery, see an exhibit of crafts created by Big Cypress Boys & Girls Club members and their mentors. Free. (877) 902-1113. ahtahthiki.com
ALLIANCE FOR THE ARTS 3-31 In Juxtaposition,
Mariapia Malerba’s fantastical multimedia works pair with Mila Bridger’s whimsical photography. $5 suggested donation. 939-2787. artinlee.org
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ART LEAGUE OF FORT MYERS 3-31 Beachy Days
people’s choice exhibit. Free. 275-3970. artleagueoffortmyers. org
ARTS FOR ACT GALLERY 1-31 Katy Danca
Galli and Barbara Keene exhibits. Free. 337-5050. artsforactgallery.com CENTERS FOR THE ARTS BONITA SPRINGS Through 6/22 In the
Open Figure Study Group Exhibition, artists from the Centers for the Arts Figure Study Group display recent works from the studio.
3-10 High School
Showcase. 17-24 Elementary & Middle School Exhibition. Free. 495-8989. artcenterbonita.org CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY Through 6/30 Gallery
Café Artists: Leslie Peebles exhibit of wood-block prints. 348-9151. corkscrew. audubon.org
EAST WEST FINE ART 3-17 At the gallery’s
Mercato location, Taurida—Land of Taurus exhibits rugged impressionist paintings depicting the beauty of Crimea by Russian artists
Alexei Petruhin, Rustem Stahurski and Mikhail Shapovalenko. Free. 821-9459. eastwestfineart.com FGCU ART GALLERIES Through 5/3 Senior
Projects, Spring 2019 exhibit featuring varied works by the school’s art majors. Free. fgcu.edu/artgalleries FORT MYERS ART WALK 3 The first Friday of
the month, take a self-guided tour of the galleries in the River district. Free. 337-5050. fortmyersartwalk.com
FORT MYERS BEACH ART ASSOCIATION Through 10/10
Summer Show. Free. 463-3909. fortmyersbeachart.com
GUESS-FISHER GALLERY AND PHIL FISHER GALLERY 11-6/8 Back in Time
exhibit. Free. 6592787. guess-fishergallery.com
HARMON-MEEK GALLERY Through 5/3 Lorrie
Goulet exhibition with Darrel Austion feature. Free. 2612637. harmonmeek. com
HAYES HALL GALLERIES AND GARDENS, ARTIS—NAPLES Through 5/5 The Is-
abelle de Borchgrave: Fashioning Art from Paper exhibit shows the artist’s Italian Renaissance-inspired fashions since the mid-1990s. Through 6/21 Daniel Buren: A Colorful Pause is the site-specific installation of a contemporary pergola by the influential French artist. Through 6/31 The Four Seasons: The Monumental Sculpture of Philip Haas showcases the work of the internationally renowned contemporary American
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MARCO ISLAND CENTER FOR THE ARTS 1-28 I See You exhibit
by photographer Jim Freeman. Free. 3944221. marcoislandart. org MARCO ISLAND HISTORICAL MUSEUM Through 5/28 An
Everglades Affair presents the works of local artist Jo-Ann Sanborn. Free. 2521440. colliermuseums. com
MARIANNE FRIEDLAND GALLERY 1-25 Form, Color,
Space exhibits contemporary American oil paintings and works on paper by nine major American artists. Free. 2623484. mariannefriedlandglry.com METHOD & CONCEPT Through 5/10 The
artist and filmmaker. Artis—Encounters exhibits highlights from The Baker Museum’s permanent collection. 18-6/21 11th Annual Student Exhibition including roughly 500 works by Collier public and private school students in pre-K through grade 12. Free. 597-1900. artisnaples.org
COURTESY OF HERZT ARENA
KAJ GALLERY Through 5/31 The
new gallery presents a show featuring ceramic sculptures by the world-renowned Chris Gustin and works by exciting abstract painters Paul Tamanian. Free. 2347918. kajartgallery. com
newly reimagined gallery closes its season with Design Dimensions, an exhibit featuring Bower Studios, which has a focus on mirrors, and Matthew Shlian, known for his paper structures. Free. 529-2633. methodandconcept.com MUSEUM OF THE EVERGLADES Through 5/3 The
works of Skunk Apes, Scallywags & Swamp Spirits celebrate the blurring of fact and fiction. Free. 2521440. colliermuseums. com
NAPLES ART DISTRICT 1 The “Art Alive” stu-
dio and gallery tours
of 40-plus professional artists takes place across the district. Free. 289-5070. naplesartdistrict.com
donation. 333-1933. sbdac.com
NAPLES ART ASSOCIATION 4-29 Traces of Red
Free. 572-3690. thesweetartgallery.com
features artwork celebrating the color red and its vital role in man-made and natural environments, while Pat Kumicich: I Found My Voice in Fabric features the contemporary quilts, photography and figurative sculpture of the title Naples-based artist. Free. 289-5070. naplesart.org NAPLES BOTANICAL GARDEN 3-9/2 In the garden’s
Kapnick Hall, Natural Oasis: The Art of Mally Khorasantchi exhibits paintings and collage works that pay homage to the natural world. Regular admission $19.95 per adult, $9.95 per child age 4 to 14, free for children 3 and under. 643-7275. naplesgarden.org
SWEET ART GALLERY 1-31 Matrix exhibit.
LIVE MUSIC ALL THAT JAZZ 15 The Naples
Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra performs The Music of Cannonball and Nat Adderley at Artis—Naples. $49. 597-1900. artisnaples. org
BLUEGRASS CONCERT 26 Alliance for the
Arts hosts a fusion of American country; Irish, Scottish and English ballads; traditional dance music; and jazz influence in partnership with the Acoustic Music Society of SWL. $15. 939-2787. artinlee.org
CAPA CONCERT SERIES 1 Rising Stars Series:
Fresh Sounds of Jazz—Naples Philharmonic Youth Jazz Orchestra at Wang Opera Center. $20. 775-2800. capacenter. org Centers for the Arts Bonita Springs 5 Musical Moments: Duelling Pianos. $25. 495-8989. artcenterbonita.org CHAYANNE 9 Hertz Arena hosts
the Latin pop artist and actor. $62-152. 948-7825. hertzarena. com EVENING ON FIFTH 9 Music acts perform up and down the sidewalks of Fifth Avenue South. Free. 692-8436. fifthavenuesouth.com FESTIVAL OF GREAT ORGAN MUSIC 11 Principal organist
James Cochran leads the annual celebration at Artis—Naples. $20. 597-1900. artisnaples.org FORT MYERS MUSIC WALK 17 Bands, street per-
formers and DJs fill the Fort Myers River District on the third Friday of the month. Free. fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com
GULF COAST SYMPHONY 3 Opera Under the
Stars at Shangri-La Springs. $35. 11 The Barber of Seville at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW. $29-85. gulfcoastsymphony.org HANK WILLIAMS JR. 3 The singer-song-
writer comes to Hertz Arena. $40-100. 9487825. hertzarena.com
ROSEN GALLERY & STUDIOS Through 5/1 Rosita
Gilsenan: Experiments in Painting exhibit featuring her unique and varied painting techniques used to achieve a variety of interesting effects seen in recent works. Free. 821-1061. rosen. gallery
SIDNEY & BERNE DAVIS ART CENTER 3-30 JoAnn LaPadula
& Sue Pink: Moving Toward Abstract exhibit and Digital Lee design and technology showcase. $1
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er Band. $35-89. 10 Dirty Dozen Brass Band. $25-40. 17 Toad the Wet Sprocket. $33-155. 18 Classic Albums Live: Tom Petty’s Damn the Torpedos. $30-55. 24 Fastball. $30-50. 245-9910. swfleventcenter.com
Music this month ranges from Fastball (right) at the Southwest Florida Event Center on May 24 to the Naples Philharmonic Patriotic Pops (below) at Artis—Naples both May 16 and 17.
Coldplay at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW. $25-103. swflso.org SUMMER SPECTACULAR 26 The Naples Phil-
HILLSONG UNITED USA TOUR 2019 8 Special guests
Amanda Lindsey Cook and Mack Brock join the worship band at Hertz Arena. $28-71. 948-7825. hertzarena.com KILLER QUEEN 1 Lead singer Patrick
Myers stars as Freddie Mercury in this concert at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW. $37-57. 481-4849. bbmannpah.com MERCATO MUSIC SERIES 2 Thomas Wynn &
the Believers. Free. mercatoshops.com MUSIC IN THE GARDEN 5 Bob Zottola & Jazz
Simpatico. 19 John Patti Project. Performances at Naples Botanical
Garden. Regular admission $19.95 per adult, $9.95 per child age 4 to 14, free for children 3 and under. 643-7275. naplesgarden.org NAPLES PHILHARMONIC CHAMBER MUSICIANS 12 Performance with
the Naples Philharmonic Chamber Chorus at Artis—Naples. $45. 24 Performance at Naples United Church of Christ. Free. 28 Performance at Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church. Free. 29 Performance at Moorings Park. Free. 30 Performance at South Regional Library and Naples Regional Library. Free. 31 Performance at Naples Botanical Garden. Free. 597-1900. artisnaples.org
NAPLES PHILHARMONIC MASTERWORKS 3-4 Andrey Boreyko
conducts the series’ season finale featuring mezzo-soprano Susan Graham at Artis—Naples. $15-72. 597-1900. artisnaples. org NAPLES PHILHARMONIC YOUTH JAZZ ORCHESTRA 22 Spring concert at
Artis—Naples. 5971900. artisnaples.org NAPLES PHILHARMONIC YOUTH ORCHESTRA 25 Spring concert at
Artis—Naples. Free. 597-1900. artisnaples. org
PATRIOTIC POPS 16-17 Naples Phil-
harmonic and Naples Philharmonic Chorus perform their annual
star-spangled concert at Artis—Naples. $29-65. 597-1900. artisnaples.org Pro-Am 12 The professionals of the Naples Philharmonic team up with amateur musicians from the community in this annual collaborative event at Artis—Naples. Free. 597-1900. artisnaples. org PURPLE REIGN: THE PRINCE TRIBUTE SHOW 5 See the “straight
the door. 4 Craig Campbell. $20 in advance, $25 at the door. 11 Dylan Scott. $22 in advance, $30 at the door. 17 Colt Ford. $20 in advance, $25 at the door. 23 The Original Wailers. $20. 985-9839. theranchfortmyers. com SOUTHWEST FLORIDA EVENT CENTER 9 The Marshall Tuck-
harmonic and Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra present a celebratory concert at Artis—Naples. $15-29. 597-1900. artisnaples. org
THEATER & SHOWS AND THE WORLD GOES ’ROUND Through 5/5 Thea-
treZone performs the revue of the songbook from Tony-winning team Kander and Ebb. $50-75. (888) 9663352. theatre.zone
COURTESY OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA EVENT CENTER (TOP); COURTESY OF ARTIS—NAPLES (BOTTOM)
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SYMPHONY 4 Beethoven vs.
from Las Vegas” show at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW. $37-57. 4814849. bbmannpah. com THE RANCH CONCERT HALL & SALOON 3 Doug Stone &
Friends—Unplugged. $15 in advance, $20 at
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Florida Repertory Theatre's annual PlayLab Festival, running May 9-12, will feature The Dingdong 2 among its new works. BROADWAY & HAPPY HOUR 2 Enjoy a performance
by TheatreZone’s actors as they share stories and their favorite tunes at Moorings Park. (888) 966-3352. theatre. zone.com CENTERS FOR THE ARTS BONITA SPRINGS 4 Flamenco Voices.
$27-37. 10 Staged Readings: The Actor’s Nightmare and Sister Mary Ignatius Explains It All for You. $20. 17-19 Willy Wonka Jr. $15-20. 495-8989. artcenterbonita.org CHAD PRATHER’S STAR SPANGLED BANTER COMEDY TOUR 18 The comedian and
musician performs at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW. $37-69. 4814849. bbmannpah.com
JACK AND THE BEANSTALK 24-6/14 Jack discov-
ers the giant in this classic at Broadway Palm Children’s Theatre. $19. 278-4422. broadwaypalm.com
NICK ADAMS PHOTOGRAPHY
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS 16-6/15 Broadway
Palm Dinner Theatre presents one of the longest-running Off Broadway productions, which merges smashhit musical with Hollywood sci-fi. $2630 per child, $45-70 per adult. 278-4422. broadwaypalm.com LOST IN YONKERS 1-26 Two young broth-
ers in 1940s New York find their lives turned
upside down when their father moves south for work. Production by The Naples Players. $40. 263-7990. naplesplayers.org
30-6/1 Tom Green.
MURDER ON THE 19TH HOLE 1-6/2 See this spe-
edy about affluent suburban couples performed by Theatre Conspiracy at Alliance for the Arts. $26. 9392787. artinlee.org
cial-engagement murder mystery comedy unfold at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre. $55. 278-4422. broadwaypalm.com
MURDER MYSTERY DINNER TRAIN Through 5/26 Death
with a Cherry on Top. Through 6/29 Murder Impossible. 29-8/4 Royal Palm Noir. Performances at Colonial Station. $8085. 275-8487. semgulf. com NATIVE GARDENS Through 5/19 The
hot new play about neighbor vs. neighbor comes to Florida Repertory Theatre. $35. 332-4488. floridarep. org
OFF THE HOOK COMEDY CLUB 1 Joselito the Puppet.
$25-35. 2-5 Jay Mohr. $30225. 10-12 Ahmed Ahmed. $22-175. 16-19 Tommy Davidson. $25-200. 23-26 Eric Schwartz. $15-175.
$25-200. 389-6901. offthehookcomedy. com
RANCHO MIRAGE 9-19 See the com-
SCHOOL HOUSE ROCK LIVE! Through 5/11 Broad-
way Palm Children’s Theatre takes on the beloved Saturday morning cartoon series that taught children science, grammar, math history and politics through clever and catchy songs. $19. 278-4422. broadwaypalm.com
SECOND CHANCES: THE THRIFT SHOP MUSICAL Through 5/12 See the
funny yet inspirational musical comedy about the quirky characters that run a thrift shop, at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre. $2630 per child, $45-70 per adult. 278-4422. broadwaypalm.com SIXTH ANNUAL PLAYLAB FESTIVAL 9-12 Florida Repertory
Theatre presents workshopping, discussion and development of new works by emerg-
ing playwrights. $20 per reading, $99 per all-access pass, $125 per VIP package. 3324488. floridarep.org SKYLIGHT 4-19 Gulfshore
Playhouse takes us into the lives of a former couple forced to confront their shared past, finding themselves entangled in a passionate clash of opposing ideologies and mutual desires. $22-162. 261-7529. gulfshoreplayhouse.org
SPORTS & OUTDOORS MINTO US OPEN PICKLEBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS Through 5/4 The
tournament—which last year hosted 2,000 players from 47 states and 20 countries—returns to East Naples Community Park. $10 per day. usopenpickleballchampionship.com
UNITED STATES TENNIS ASSOCIATION WOMEN’S PROFESSIONAL CIRCUIT TOURNAMENT 6-12 Players ranked
from 30 to 60 in the world according to the USTA will compete at this Bonita Bay-hosted tournament, which is one of only
two of its level in the country, and the first in Southwest Florida. bonitabayclub.net
FESTIVALS, FAIRS & MORE ART WALKS THE RUNWAY 17-18 Couture fashion
shines at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. Friday admission $25 in advance, $30 day of; Saturday admission $40 in advance, $45 day of. 333-1933. sbdac.com COMMUNITY DAY 18 Families receive
free admission to the entire Artis—Naples campus, plus fun events for all, including the Naples Philharmonic Youth Chorus’ spring concert, Naples Philharmonic Youth Symphonia’s spring concert. Free. 5971900. artisnaples.org GREAT DOCK CANOE RACE 11 The 43rd annual
affair, themed “Heroes and Villains,” commences at the Naples city docks. greatdockcanoeraces.com MOVIE ON THE LAWN 21 Kick back and
watch Grease at Mercato, with an outdoor
bar including adult beverages, popcorn and food. Free. mercatoshops.com NAPLES HISTORICAL SOCIETY 4, 11, 18, 25 Buy-
one-get-one tours of Historic Palm Cottage. 15 Free walking tour of the Naples Historic District. 261-8164. napleshistoricalsociety.org SIZZLE SWFL RESTAURANT WEEK 30-6/12 More than
50 participating restaurants from Marco Island to Cape Coral offer special dinner menus. sizzleswfl.com
STAY IN MAY FESTIVAL Through 5/8 Visual,
performing and culinary arts descend upon the shores of Southwest Florida. stayinmay.com TASTE OF THE BEACH 5 Restaurants dish out
their best bites on Old San Carlos Boulevard, Fort Myers Beach. fortmyersbeach.org
TASTE OF COLLIER 5 The longstanding
Naples tradition returns to Bayfront, featuring top area chefs, demonstrations, live music and more. tasteofcollier.com
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THIRD ON CANVAS Hosted by The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club to benefit Golden PAWS Assistance Dogs and Friends of Foster Children Forever PHOTO GR A PH Y BY PE TER FA LENCIK
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1. Alexis Martinez Puleio, Vinny Puleio 2. Peter Garon, Janine Wesselmann 3. Mike and Linda Kilburn 4. Cathy Knuteson, Dora Knuteson 5. Debbie Lageman, Erick Montano, Brandi Chapman 6. PAWS dog
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GOURMET VINTNER DINNER Hosted by The Ritz-Carlton, Naples to benefit Neighborhood Health Clinic PHOTO GR A PH Y BY PE TER FA LENCIK
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1. Todd Schusterman, London Amara 2. Corbin Wyant, Suzie Lount, John P. Cardillo 3. Mark and Nancy Prysi 4. Jerry and Adria Starkey 5. Leslie Lascheid, Nancy Lascheid, Kathy Walsh 6. David and Jerri Hoffmann
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PA RTING SHOT 05.2019
FEATHER LIGHT Deb Ward gives a painterly feeling to her photograph of an illuminated flamingo at Everglades Wonder Gardens by applying watercolor brushstrokes. debwardphotography.com
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