Gulfshore Life April 2021

Page 1

SUSTA INA BILIT Y ISSUE GUARDING WHAT WE LOVE

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NO _ 5 0 6

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Features DEFENDERS OF THE GULF

Environmental photographer John Brady, self-portrait

86

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GULFSHORE LIFE

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Azahara Muñoz Professional Golfer

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Features SUSTAIN ABLE C H E FS

Chef Jeff Mitchell, photographed by Brian Tietz

98

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com


Live Exquisite Welcome to an architectural icon located at Chicago’s finest address. Luxurious on every level. Meticulous in every detail. With stunning 360-degree views of Chicago and Lake Michigan, elevated by extraordinary St. Regis service, this 101-story wonder soars above your highest expectations. Learn more at srresidenceschicago.com or call +1 312 872 8221.

The St. Regis logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc ., or its affiliates. The Residences at The St. Regis Chicago are not owned, developed or sold by Marriott International, Inc. or its affiliates(“Marriott”). The developer of the residential project, Parcel C LLC, Dev License #2418452, uses the St. Regis marks under a license from Marriott, which has not confirmed the accuracy of any of the statements or representations made about the project. If this license is terminated or expires without renewal, the residential project will no longer be associated with, or have any right to use, the St. Regis tradenames or trademarks.


NO _ 5 0 6

CONTENTS Departments

0 4 _ 2 0 21

IN EVERY ISSUE

INSIDER

36 Editor ’s Note

46 A rtist P rof ile: Rachel P ierce

38 From the CA B 40 Gulfshore T reasures 320 Parting Shot

54 Dining Out: Hyde N Chic 61 Wine Watch: A Table Apart ’s Rhône Valle y Vacque yras

66 Personalities: Environmental Activist Bet t y Osceola 74 Ret rospective: Corkscre w S wamp Sanctuar y 78 Guest List: People & Places

INSIDER Artist Prof ile

46

Now a full-time artist, former news anchor Rachel Pierce celebrates nature with her

Erik Kellar

wildlife paintings.

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com



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CONTENTS Depart ments

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HOME

H E A LTHY LI F E

214 St ylish Living: Monochrome Beaut y

268 Wellness: T he Power of Qigong

224 Fa vorite T hings: Wildlife-Inspired Objects 234 Realt y Check: Dream Homes

292 Dining Guide: 150+ Essential Restaurants ARTS + LEISURE

276 House Call: Health Ne ws and Events TASTE 290 Raise a Glass: T he Luminar y’s Grand Light Parade

311 Agenda: Can’t-Miss Events for April IN THIS ISSUE MINI, a parenting publication f rom Gulfshore Life ( f ind it af ter p. 120)

H OM E Favorite T hings

224

Embrace your wild side with animalinspired objects like the Textured Impasto Sandpiper from Summerfields in

Volume 51/Number 6, Gulfshore Life (ISSN 0745-0079) is published monthly, 12 times a year, by Gulfshore Life Media, LLC., 26101 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL, 34134. 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 Media, LLC, P.O. Box 16147, North Hollywood, CA, 91615-6147. Telephone (239) 498-8501 or email subscriptions@gulfshorelife.com. Periodicals postage paid at Bonita Springs, FL, and at additional mailing offices. Copyright 2021 by Gulfshore Life Media, 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

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GULFSHORE LIFE

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Courtesy Summerfields

Naples.


N O T A L L W E A LT H M A N AG E M E N T IS THE SAME PERFORMANCE MATTERS FEES MATTER ADVICE MATTERS

Robert T. Edwards

CEO, Chief Investment Officer, Senior PIM Portfolio Manager

We encourage you to compare us to your current advisor or any other. Contact us today for a virtual or in-person consultation.

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Editor-in-Chief Stephanie Granada Creative Director Scott Glick Managing Editor Michael Oricchio Editor-at-Large Dorothea Hunter Sönne Associate Editor Jaynie Bartley Staff Writer Tess Raines Editorial Interns Katie Roberts

ADVERTISING Associate Publisher Kimberley Evans Marketing Consultants Wendy Tooley Mindy Roosa Holly Baldwin Lauren Iorizzo MARKETING

PRODUCTION Production Manager Martha Leavitt Production Services Manager Ankita Joshi ADMINISTRATION Advertising Services Manager/ Reprint Sales & Distribution Kathleen Hill

Director of Marketing and Events Rachel Galante Digital Media Marketing Manager Brittney Kleis Circulation Director of Audience Development Kerri Nolan

Samantha Roesler Copy Editor Ruksana Hussain ART Art Directors Felipe Echeverria Mary Rich

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GULFSHORE LIFE

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R E A DE R SE RV IC E S O F F IC E A D D R E S S 26101 S. Tamiami Trail  Bonita Springs, FL, 34134 Phone: (239) 498-8500 Website: gulfshorelife.com Email: info@gulfshorelife.com S U B S C R I P T ION S Your subscription includes 12 issues of Gulfshore Life a year. If you have a question about your subscription, call us at (239) 498-8501; write to Subscription Services, Gulfshore Life, P.O. Box 16147, North Hollywood, CA, 91615-6147; email subscriptions@gulfshorelife.com; or visit gulfshorelife.com. G I F T S U B S C R I P T I ON S Call (239) 498-8501 or order online at gulfshorelife.com. We will send a gift announcement card to the recipient. CH A NGE OF A DDR ESS Send the old and new addresses and a mailing label, if possible, to Gulfshore Life, P.O. Box 16147, North Hollywood, CA, 91615-6147. You may also visit gulfshorelife.com or call (239) 498-8501. B AC K I S S U E S : Order online at gulfshorelife.com, purchase by mail for $8.90 post paid or at our office for $5.95 each plus tax, or call (239) 498-8511. R EPR INTS Contact Kathleen Hill at (239) 498-8511 or khill@gulfshorelife.com. LETTER S Send letters to Gulfshore Life, 26101 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL, 34134; or visit gulfshorelife.com. Include full name, address and phone number.

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. 26101 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134 Gul​fshore Life and Gulfshore Life Media, LLC retain exclusive rights to all editorial and photographic materials used. Materials cannot be reproduced in any manner without written consent.

© Copyright Gulfshore Life is published by Gulfshore Life Media, LLC. The entire document of Gulfshore Life is © 2021 by Gulfshore Life Media, 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, P.O. 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.

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COMMUNITY ADVISORY BOARD

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

Denise Cobb Chair, Community Advisory Board Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation 2000 Woman of the Year

Shirlene Elkins Real Estate Professional, John R. Wood Properties Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation 2003 Woman of the Year

Todd E. Gates Chairman, GATES Construction 2003 Man of the Year

Ellin Goetz President, Goetz+Stropes Landscape Architects 2000 Woman of the Year

Mark Loren Head Jewelry Designer/Owner, Mark Loren Designs 2016 Man of the Year

Gail Markham Founding Partner, Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Company 2011 Woman of the Year

Elliott H. Singer Managing Director and Founder, Fairview Advisors Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation Memberat-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 2013 Woman of the Year

Sandra Stilwell Youngquist Owner and CEO, Stilwell Enterprises 2006 Woman of the Year

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GULFSHORE LIFE

Brian Tietz (10); Courtesy Shirlene Elkins, Ellin Goetz, Mark Loren, Shelly Stayer/Roland Scarpa

Ingrid Aielli Co-Owner, Aielli Group 2016 Woman of the Year

g ulf shorelife.com



M A K I N G

G U L F S H O R E

L I F E

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ON THE COVER Photographed on location at Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park in Naples by Kelly Jones.

On the cover, the model wears a NICHOLAS Luisa Dress from ROUZE (shoprouze.com). Here, she is also seen wearing an Amanda Uprichard Samba Silk Dress (also at ROUZE); a Halter Dress with Embellishment and Animalier Embellished V-Neck Tunic Dress with matching scarf (at 120% LINO, shop.120percento.com); Pin-Up Stars Plissé Soleil Dress Pied De Poule Print, with matching bikini, and a San Diego Hat Company straw hat (at Casanova Boutique, casanovaboutique.com). Model Xenia Stylist Elyse Ranart

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com


Passion. Vision. Trust.

OLDE NAPLES • GINSBERGEYE.COM • 239.325.2015


FROM THE EDITOR

A BA L A NC I NG AC T

NO _ 5 0 6

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Many of us comprehend the

tured in this issue make it easier to

naturalist studies, but also Fort

importance of minding our envi-

understand and far easier to apply.

Myers history, economic impact

ronmental footprint. We know

Since I started shopping with the

and social awareness. Sustainabil-

every decision we make matters

Punta Gorda-based SWFL Pro-

ity is not just environmental, she

and are adopting lifestyle choices

duce, it’s not even a question that

says—something I’ve been hearing

to help lighten our impact.

we’ll prioritize eating and shopping

visionary leaders in our community echoing lately.

Now we’re understanding that

local. The co-op—whose founders

living sustainably extends beyond

we feature in “Defenders of the

In many ways, there couldn’t be a

those environmental factors. The

Gulf” (p. 86)—sources mindfully

better time for us to launch MINI, a

past year has only amplified the

grown produce from area farms,

publication found within this issue

importance of considering our

including their own, to create an

and geared at families with young

social and economic impact. Wad-

online marketplace where peo-

children. The idea of guarding what

ing through the information and

ple can shop a la carte, through

we have and working to build an

reconciling the various needs can

assorted boxes or via a more typ-

equitable community is important

be daunting.

ical subscription co-op model. In

now, but the conversation becomes

The chefs featured on p. 98 know

my home, we go for the assorted

more poignant when we consider

this well. They must balance con-

veggie boxes. They get delivered to

the future generations.

siderations regarding local sourc-

our door, and we love challenging

With this issue, we’re proud to

ing, production of ingredients,

ourselves with new dishes based on

support the strong individuals com-

emerging food technologies and

the ingredients we receive—some-

mitted to preserving and enhancing

other factors when determining

thing we wouldn’t do with our stan-

our way of life in paradise.

what will be least taxing on the

dard grocery list. The group hires

planet and beneficial for their

local drivers to make the deliveries,

customers. The answer is rarely

helping employ people who lost

clear-cut.

their jobs during the pandemic.

The topic of sustainability is

Another Defender of the Gulf,

complex, but people like those fea-

Jennifer Jones, at Florida Gulf

Stephanie Granada Editor-in-Chief

Coast University, is raising the next Anna Gunselman

generation of leaders, so that sustainable thinking becomes second nature. Her curriculum and onand off-campus initiatives include

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com


fo llow u s on facebook & instag r am @mari ssanap les

sh op on li n e at ma ri ssac olle ct i on s.c om

KATHERINE JETTER TRUNK SHOW APRIL 6-7

239.263.4333 | 1167 THIRD STREET SOUTH, NAPLES


FROM OUR COMMUNITY ADVISORY BOARD

PL A N T I NG T H E S E E D S O F S US TA I NA BI L I T Y

NO _ 5 0 6

0 4 _ 2 0 21

When I was a high school student

scholastic benefactor did for my

Community Foundation and

from a struggling family with

individual good.

the organization’s broad sus-

limited resources, I didn’t hold

I’ve been reflecting on this as

tainability efforts. What’s taken

much hope for a sustainable,

I’ve found solace during these

root is a realization that we’re

fulfilling future. Then, a woman

trying times by planting and

planting in fertile soil when we

I didn’t even know until I sought

harvesting a tower garden I set

think in terms of the long-term

her out years later provided me

up in my dining room. Lettuce,

common good—socially, eco-

a path to a goal I never thought

tomatoes, kale, arugula, sprouts,

nomically and environmentally.

possible: a college education. Her

herbs—if it’s leafy, I’m growing it!

It’s empowering to realize that

scholarship support was an act of

It’s organic, supports my family’s

having such an impact on our

generosity I have never forgotten,

and the planet’s health, and, best

current and future generations

one I’ve taken to heart as I’ve

of all, it’s easy! (Search online for

by paying it forward doesn’t

endeavored to pay it forward in

tower gardening, an innovative

require the ability to solve that

my own life.

type of vertical gardening, and

complex Rubik’s Cube by oneself.

prepare to be amazed.)

It can begin at home—right in

collectively paying it forward is

Turns out my DIY (do it your-

key to our community’s efforts to

self ) focus on sustainable family

forge a path to social, economic

nutrition has a healthy byproduct

and environmental sustainabil-

for the common good: reducing

ity that fosters a thriving future

the host of commercial manufac-

for all. I know sustainability

turing, processing and transporta-

can seem like a Rubik’s Cube of

tion steps in the food supply chain

overlapping complexities, but

that contribute to climate change.

I’ve been thinking about sustain-

Sharing an April birthday with

ability in more bite-sized terms,

Earth Day, I’ve long been attuned

as a way of paying it forward for

to environmental sustainability.

the common good, just as my

And I’ve broadened my perspective on the interconnected sustainability issues as a board member of the Southwest Florida

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GULFSHORE LIFE

our own dining rooms.

Gail Markham

Founding Partner, Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Company 2011 Woman of the Year

g ulf shorelife.com

Brian Tietz

Today, it occurs to me that


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GU LFS HORE

TRE ASU RES

Through her Buffalo Tiger Airboat Tours, activist Betty Osceola, of the Miccosukee tribe, educates people on the beauty and complexity of Erik Kellar

the Everglades, where she grew up living off the land. Read about her conservation work on p. 66.

41


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NO _ 5 0 6

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Artist Profile: Anchor-Turned-Painter Rachel Pierce

Erik Kellar

p_ 46

54

Dining Out: Hyde N Chic

61

Wine Watch: A Table Apart ’s Vacque yras

66

Personalities: Environmental Activist Bet t y Osceola

74

Ret rospective: Corkscre w S wamp Sanctuar y

78

Guest List: People & Places


Over the last year, Rachel Pierce transitioned from being a news anchor to a full-time artist. The dynamic nature scenes in her work are marked by a vivid use of color and meticulous detail.

46

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com


ARTIST PROFILE

DROPPING ANCHOR INSIDER

Former television personality Rachel Pierce shares the beauty of nature through her art. By Emily Haynes Photography by Erik Kellar

Like many people, Rachel Pierce is in a

is marked by a bold use of color and

much different place now than she was

attention to detail, with backgrounds in

a year ago. Back then, she was juggling a

swirling pastels. These wildlife paintings

burgeoning art career with her job as an

are a marked shift from her work before

anchor while parenting four young kids.

she moved to the region, when she mostly

Journalism and motherhood were the

made impressionist paintings of flowers.

plan. Art was a fortuitous development.

“I grew up in northern Wisconsin, where

Pierce moved to Fort Myers from Des

it’s frigid cold and we don’t have anything

Moines, Iowa, in 2014. Soon, she became

tropical anywhere,” Pierce says. “Living

a local celebrity as the morning news

here—it’s unreal. I can’t believe I see bird

anchor for NBC2. In 2018, she agreed to

of paradise flowers in my yard growing

paint a platter for the Ronald McDonald

like weeds; I can’t believe there are palm

House Charities of Southwest Florida

trees in a Walmart parking lot.”

benefit auction. Her bird of paradise

Pierce aims to capture the region’s

flower impressed bidders, but Pierce kept

beauty and whimsy in her paintings.

mum about how serious she’d been about

While she isn’t a native of Southwest Flor-

painting when she was in college. “I just

ida, Pierce has formed a deep attachment

kind of downplayed it,” she says.

to the local landscape. “All art I create has

The cat, however, was out of the bag.

a story or meaning,” Pierce says. Some-

Inspired by her notoriety and skill, other

times, the story is as simple as spotting a

nonprofits asked Pierce to donate paint-

pelican out of her car window on her way

ings for auctions. “Pretty soon, every

to J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife

event I was emceeing, I was then donating

Refuge, where she’s currently the artist in

a piece of artwork,” she says. People also

residence. “It’s like we share a moment in

started commissioning her work directly.

time together. I watch their movement,

Pierce paints dynamic seascapes that

their interaction with other birds or how

vividly feature local wildlife, like sea

they move with the wind. Then when I get

turtles or roseate spoonbills. Her work

out to Ding to paint plein-air, that brown

INSIDER

47


INSIDER ARTIST PROFILE

The Wisconsin-born artist and mother of four is often seen with a paintbrush in hand and her youngest daughter bouncing on her hip.

pelican just flows out of me and takes me

Pierce says. “Then my husband’s like,

I was working full-time and emceeing

right back to that moment.”

‘That’s it, I’m making you a website.’”

events and getting up at 1:30 in the

Still, it took her a while to fully com-

Reluctantly, Pierce promoted her work

mit to the craft. As her art career took off

on Facebook and Instagram. For a year,

and local buyers responded to her work

she’d paint on weekends and anchor the

Demand for her paintings was grow-

in those nascent days, Pierce still saw

news each weekday morning. During this

ing, and Pierce grappled with the idea of

painting as a side gig. She wasn’t sure how

time, she also gave birth to her youngest

leaving the news desk to pursue art full

her art fit with her career as a television

child, Daphne, who turns 2 this month.

time. She had spent nearly two decades

journalist. “It spread by word of mouth,”

“I honestly don’t know how I did it when

in television news. She knew she could be

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GULFSHORE LIFE

morning and raising four kids,” she says. “Something had to give.”

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INSIDER ARTIST PROFILE

Pierce loves the local landscape and the wildlife that inhabits it. She finds inspiration for her art in both. “Living here—it’s unreal,” she says.

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This year, Pierce works with J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge as its artist-in-residence, hosting biweekly plein-air demos, weekly nature walk-art lessons and a finale show in the fall.

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GULFSHORE LIFE

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INSIDER ARTIST PROFILE

a news anchor, but could she also be a

business and showroom. “They want

professional artist?

the fun and they want the liveliness

Her decision to transition was

and they want the joy and happiness,”

helped along by a dose of tough love

Gardner says. “Maybe they have a

from her mother, Jenny Licht, who

Picasso, who knows? But that doesn’t

is an artist herself and teaches art

mean that they wouldn’t love to have

locally. When Pierce was growing up,

a Rachel Pierce.”

Licht enrolled her in art programs

Meanwhile, the artist’s star has

during summer vacations and later

grown on social media, where fans are

urged her to consider art school.

charmed by videos that show Pierce

“Quit downplaying your talent,” she

painting while bouncing baby Daphne

told her daughter, reminding Pierce

on her hip. In January, she began her

of the waiting list of interested buyers

year-long stint as the “Ding” Darling

she’d already amassed.

Wildlife Society’s artist-in-residence

In June, Pierce left NBC2 after six

at the park. She currently has a wait

years as a morning anchor. And while

list of 15 commissioned paintings,

it might seem especially risky to make

sells her prints and other products

a career change during a health emer-

online and through various shops

gency and an economic downturn, she

and galleries, and she’s launching a

says the pandemic helped galvanize

partnership with art-driven jewelry

her business. With limited opportuni-

brand ÉVOCATEUR, inspired by her

ties to spend money on dining out and

work, that will sell at a new shop at

entertainment, more people seemed

Gulf Star Marina in Fort Myers Beach.

willing to spend money on art. “I’m

Without those 1:30 a.m. alarms,

getting more requests because people

Pierce now paints every day—often

are spending more time in their house

with a paintbrush in one hand and

and they’re noticing things,” she says.

her youngest in the other. Her three

People are eager to add color and life

older children often zip in and out of

to the walls that surround them most

the studio as she works. It’s far from

of the day, she adds.

quiet, but she says that’s how she likes

Buyers typically purchase paintings

it. “I don’t think I could have done it

directly from Pierce, but this year she

on my own and planned it,” she says,

has also sold through Naples’ Emi-

adding now that she’s a full-time art-

llions Art. Pierce’s work resonates

ist, she feels as if she is making up for

with Naples art lovers, says Marlissa

lost time in front of an easel. “It just

Gardner, who owns the art consulting

kind of happened all on its own.”

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53


The sole tasting menu-only restaurant in the area, Hyde N Chic showcases the chef’s deft ability with seasonal and regional ingredients (like the salt-cured lion fish, above) and global recipes. Every dish tells the story of a place or memory that’s dear to the Ghana-born chef.

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GULFSHORE LIFE

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DINING OUT

AT YOUR SERVICE

INSIDER

Chef Andy Hyde’s Hyde N Chic Restaurant is a reflection of his exuberant spirit, worldly experiences and dedication to his craft. By Dorothea Hunter Sönne Photography by Brian Tietz

“Chic, baby, chic.”

artist to adorn it with striking art and

It’s chef Andy Hyde’s rallying cry

design. “I feel less is more until there

for his dedicated staff of five—three

is more confidence out there,” he

in the back and two up front—at his

says referring to the pandemic.

boutique Hyde N Chic Restaurant off U.S. 41 in Naples.

The restaurant is a tasting roomonly experience (at least for now;

The slender, dynamic chef who

more on that later)—the only one

is Ghanaian by birth and raised

of its kind in Southwest Florida.

between there, Germany and the

Hyde chose to make it that way pre-

United States could be equally at

pandemic because it allows him to

home emceeing an awards show

shoot for the caliber he knows he’s

or running a spin class. He fluidly

capable of. His conviviality belies

moves between the kitchen and the

the laser-like focus it takes for him to

floor, charming clients and playfully

craft his fine-dining symphony. His

encouraging his team with his innate

menus are replete with ingredients

charisma. “The first rule is love what

sourced from farmers near and far,

you’re doing. I really do love the chal-

as well as molecular gastronomic

lenge, and that’s what drives me to

preparations learned from training

wake up every morning,” Hyde says.

with culinary giants at the three

In 2019, he achieved his dream of

Michelin-starred Alinea, plus brief

opening his first brick-and-mortar

stints working for Grant Achatz and

project: a restaurant much like him,

Gordon Ramsay, before settling in

small yet overflowing with panache.

Naples a decade ago.

There are only 30 seats—with just 12

Guests choose from three ($70),

filled during each of the night’s two

four ($110) or five ($130) courses

seatings—and he worked with a local

(or more, on request), with Hyde

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INSIDER DINING OUT

there to guide and inform. Most people select a dish or two and the kitchen builds the rest, or they entrust the night’s progression to Hyde and his team. The menu can, and does, change often depending on what is available and inspiring. For early 2021, there were 13 dishes in his steady repertoire. Some had been there from the start, like his signature cacio e pepe, hand-spun fettuccine topped with a silky heart of palm velour spiked with Florida Tellicherry peppercorns. The surprise is that it doesn’t have a morsel of pecorino because he’s made the heart of palm sauce so velvety, it hugs the noodles with a similar richness, minus the fat. Others were the product of what he calls, with his ever-positive attitude, “the R&D period” when he closed twice last year mid-pandemic. He takes shopping seriously, browsing the Pine Ridge Road Farmer’s Market for fresh ingredients to incorporate into his dishes. He also splurges on greens from The Chef’s Garden, the famous Ohio farm that supplies renowned restaurateur and chef Thomas Keller’s restaurants, among others, and he recently started a small garden in the back of the restaurant with herbs and other greens growing in wooden planters. Giving back is a big part of his ethos, and he does that by mentor-

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GULFSHORE LIFE

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ing high school students and other

only ensnares the eyes, but it has

young hospitality industry hopefuls.

technically challenging elements,

“I find true happiness when I can

too. When it was first created, the

hire one or two high school kids and

dish included a scallop cracker

see them grow within the company,

(essentially a chicharrón made from

even if they don’t stay,” he says,

the mollusk). But, as Hyde is always

adding that he allows the younger

tinkering and perfecting his recipes,

team members to help in the front-

it now comes with scallop powder,

of-house on slower weeknights. “I

which he says provides more balance.

have a three-year intern signed on

He then might finish the evening

in the kitchen now.”

with Products of Ghanaian Sweets,

If you let Hyde guide your way, for

an homage to his childhood, starring

a three-course menu, he might select

a grown-up version of his favorite

his wild mushroom strudel—a dish,

bofrot: plantain donuts that were

he says, is “to live for” (“I don’t like

a lunchbox treat. Now, he serves

saying ‘to die for,’” he says with a

them stunningly with a single edible

laugh). It’s served with the creami-

gold-dusted number in a gilded glass

est Époisses sauce, truffle shavings

dome with house-made ice cream of

and parsley oil to balance the earthy

Ghanaian cocoa and raspberry pearls.

blend baked within. Or, he might

While his dishes arrest the senses,

recommend the show-stopping

people rave just as much about the

Jack Sparrow—oysters on the half

touchingly personal service. “If a

shell balanced atop tiny mountains

guest is nice (wink, wink), there’s

Hyde guides guests as they choose

of rock salt. The peaks are capped

always an extra course. I say this out

between three-, four- or five-course

with caviar sourced from Marshall-

loud all the time, ‘This is my home.’

meals, along with wine flights. In

berg Farm in North Carolina, what

If people are keen and nice, a little

April, the chef plans to host a dinner

Hyde reckons is the only sustainable

extra gets sent their way,” Hyde

with Lee Jones, owner of the The

black Caspian sturgeon operation in

remarks. Then, if someone doesn’t

Chef’s Garden, the respected Ohio

the United States. He partnered with

pick a dessert, he will usually end

farm where Hyde and many top chefs

them this year to donate a culinary

the meal on a complimentary sweet

source produce.

experience to the Naples Winter

note, or an additional savory course.

Wine Festival’s online auction. Like

To further enhance a visit, he

most of his work, the Sparrow not

greatly expanded his wine list for his

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INSIDER DINING OUT

second season, with options of adding flights of high- ($130), mid- ($90) and lower-priced ($60) pairings. “It doesn’t make any sense to not do that,” he says. Guests can also select from an extensive a la carte list with bottles and myriad by-the-glass options. As of January, Hyde wasn’t doing takeout, a la carte or lunch—yet. He was forced to do take-out for a stretch during the pandemic, which he marvels actually helped his creativity. He came up with two burgers that he still gets requests for to this day, the Chicken-Nizzle (a nod to his German upbringing with schnitzel and sauerkraut slaw) and the Andy Man (ground wagyu on brioche with sherry-glazed caramelized onions). He’s aiming to open for lunch one or two days a week in the summer months and allow for a la carte ordering, too. Before then, he’s hoping to launch Hyde N Chic Digital, a platform for online ordering of to-go individual meals, build-your-own picnic baskets and to-go dinner parties. After all, the precursor to his restaurant was Chef Hyde Gourmet, a catering company and personal chef service, so he has the wherewithal to execute demands of this nature—he just needs the time and kitchen space. “I feel much smarter and stronger than before the pandemic. It’s in my nature not to give up, and in trying times I focus

This summer, Hyde plans to expand to serve lunch a couple days

on what is needed to be done and what can

a week, and launch an online platform for to-go meals, build-your-

be improved. People say I have tenacity,”

own picnics and take-home dinner parties.

he says. “Slow growth wins the race, and I live by that. The one thing this past year has taught me is be grateful for what you have and to work for what you want to have.”

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g ulf shorelife.com


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INSIDER W I N E WATC H

MODERN VINTAGE With its bright taste and silky texture, Vidal-Fleury Vacqueyras is a current favorite at Bonita Springs’ A Table Apart. By Shana Clarke Photography by Brian Tietz

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After Samantha and Jarrod Davis took the reins at the venerable restaurant A Table Apart in Bonita Springs several years ago, they put their own stamp on the place, mixing in flavors from a broader panoply of countries, like India and Japan. The wine list takes a similar approach, balancing a gamut of styles throughout its well-curated selection of international offerings. France was a focus at a wine dinner in the autumn, and a diverse lineup of wines from various regions highlighted the nuanced flavors on the plate. One standout, notes sommelier Christopher Cunningham, was the Vidal-Fleury Vacqueyras. From a renowned Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) in Southern Rhône, this traditional grenache, syrah and mourvèdre blend has a lithe profile and silky texture, especially in comparison to cuvées from neighboring regions. With notes of red and black plum, wild herbs and mushrooms, it paired especially well with fromage de chèvre, a goat cheese dish with roasted beets and arugula. “Goat cheese and a lighter style wine are perfect together,” Cunningham says. Considered the oldest winery in

A Table Apart’s sommelier Christopher Cunningham loves the notes of red and black plums, wild herbs and mushrooms in this grenache-syrah-mourvèdre blend.

the Rhône Valley, Vidal-Fleury was founded in 1781 in the Northern Rhône appellation of Côte Rôtie. The

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INSIDER W I N E WATC H

quality of the wines quickly caught

is grenache-dominant, as in many of

international attention; a point of

Southern Rhône’s red wines, there is

pride for the estate was a visit from

a high percentage of syrah. Coupled

future president (and avowed wine

with the exposition of the vineyards on

lover) Thomas Jefferson in 1787.

the east side of the region—which has a

Later on, in 1920, Vidal-Fleury

longer growing season due to its cooler

expanded its reach into the south, but

climate as compared to the west—the

it wasn’t until 1960 when the estate

wine shows a bright freshness and

began making wine in Vacqueyras,

mouthwatering acidity. Syrah’s trade-

winemaker Guy Sarton Du Jonchay

mark spice also comes through.

says. Today Vidal-Fleury produces

Sarton du Jonchay equates South-

bottlings from 19 different AOCs in

ern Rhône winemaking to making

the Rhône.

wine in the new world, where wines—

The differences between the

often due to warmer climates and

north and south are dramatic; syrah

inherently riper fruit—don’t always

and viognier dominate plantings

need a long aging period in order

in the north, while blends—mostly

to become approachable. This is a

comprised of grenache, syrah and

departure from northern syrahs,

mourvèdre—create Southern Rhône’s

which need time to integrate tannins

distinct style. Northern Rhône

and acidity. However, he prefers to

only produces about 5% of the total

allow the Vacqueyras and its neigh-

volume of Rhône Valley wines, but

boring appellation, Gigondas, some

almost all are high-end cru wines.

time in barrel, largely due to his

The south, although larger in pro-

belief that the personality of a wine is

duction, has varying levels of quality.

made during élevage, rather than the

Even within quality AOCs in the

vinification process. “It’s southern

south, careful attention needs to be

wine with northern winemaking,” as

paid to the specific terroirs and their

he puts it.

nuances. “If you don’t care, you can make very similar wines,” Sarton du Jonchay says. As Vidal-Fleury’s roots reside in Northern Rhône, where syrah dominates, the influence is apparent in the Vacqueyras. Although the wine

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INSIDER W I N E WATC H

The Vacqueyras is fermented in the south, but like all of Vidal-Fleury’s wines, is then sent to the main estate in the north for aging. A recent renovation of the facility allows Vidal-Fleury to store three years’ worth of wine, and gives the winery complete control over the wine’s development. Working with as little intervention as possible in the vineyards and winery is also a high priority to Sarton du Jonchay. “I like to make wine with grapes and time,” he says. Although not certified organic—mainly due to the administrative work that goes into becoming certified—he operates as sustainably as possible. This philosophy harkens back to Vidal-Fleury’s northern roots; steep terraced vineyards in Côte Rôtie require harvesting by hand and almost no use of chemicals.

Cunningham works with the husband-wife owners, Jarrod (who is also

Much like A Table Apart’s cuisine, Vidal-Fleury keeps one eye on its his-

the restaurant’s chef) and Samantha Davis, to curate a global wine list to match the French-inflected, innovative menu.

toric roots, yet builds upon tradition with modern ideas and philosophies.

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PERSONALITIES

OSCEOL A’S RIVER OF GR ASS

INSIDER

Environmental activist Betty Osceola shares her vision for what the Everglades once were—and could be in the future. By Brendan Meyer Photography by Erik Kellar

Although Betty Osceola has traversed

and stopping out there in nature away

It’s flooded. Due to an abundance of

the Everglades thousands of times,

from civilization. It’s very relaxing,

rain, primarily from Tropical Storm

she’s always discovers something

very grounding.”

Eta, many of the tree islands Osceola

new when she gets out on the water.

Osceola has been guiding airboat

once slept on as a child have been

On this sunny December morning

tours with her company, Buffalo Tiger

submerged underwater for months,

during an airboat tour, it’s the leaves

Airboat Tours, for more than 10 years.

their roots slowly rotting. “The Ever-

of the maple trees on an island that

And her life is ingrained in this area.

glades is supposed to be the river of

she frequently passes.

She’s a member of the Panther clan

grass,” she says. “But for the past four

They had turned a bright orange

of the Miccosukee tribe, and spent

months, it’s like a lake out here.”

and burgundy, popping among the

her upbringing living off the land,

Just the other day, she saw turtle

swampy greens and browns of the

hunting and fishing with her father.

eggs floating away. She sees skinny

Everglades like a nylon traffic vest.

At age 5, after a long day of frogging

alligators longing for their next meal,

Combine that uncommon site with

with him on the water, they’d return

and knows that the crawfish will have

the classic ones, like the turtles sun-

to their tree island camp late at night,

trouble breeding with all of this water,

ning themselves on the mud patches,

where Osceola would clean their haul

which means one of the main food

a great blue heron plodding in the

by peeling off the frog skins one-by-

sources for the wading birds won’t

sawgrass marsh, an anhinga soaring

one like a tiny pair of blue jeans. “If

be available. For Osceola, who’s long

overhead, a 10-foot male alligator

we were going to eat, it came from the

been an advocate for the Everglades,

glaring back from the murky waters

Everglades,” Osceola says. “It didn’t

it falls in line with a concerning trend.

and the thrill she gets when she’s

come from the grocery store.”

“Man is the biggest threat to the envi-

driving an airboat, and it was a perfect

But those days feel like a lifetime

ronment right now,” she says. “When

start to her morning. “It’s the closest

ago. The Everglades she grew up with

I was growing up, especially this time

you get to flying,” she says. “Gliding

is vastly different from the one she

of year during the winter mornings,

across the Everglades in the airboat,

sees today, and especially right now.

I’d hear flocks of birds before I saw

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GULFSHORE LIFE

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Part of the Panther clan of the Miccosukee tribe, Betty Osceola has been active in conservation most of her life. Through Buffalo Tiger Airboat Tours, she educates guests on the fragile ecosystem and her tribe’s dependence on the Everglades.

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INSIDER PERSONALITIES

As a child, Osceola and her family lived off the land. Now, she works to ensure the Everglades don’t disappear. “I love my homeland, and my hope is to share that love, and maybe, somebody else will fall in love with it, too. I want to be that spark,” she says.

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INSIDER PERSONALITIES

them, passing by in the sky like a black

her love for this place and conservation

quality, along with national environmen-

cloud. You don’t see that anymore.”

efforts over the years.

tal issues, like traveling to South Dakota

The same goes with the Florida pan-

It’s not her first time doing so on-

to bring supplies for protesters during the

ther. She hasn’t seen one since her late

screen, having appeared in documenta-

teens. But in 2016, a game-camera spot-

ries for CNN and PBS. There’s a reason

But the Everglades have always been

ted one, which is why a film crew from

why film crews and journalists seek out

one of her biggest concerns. Osceola

National Geographic tabbed Osceola as

Osceola when the topic is about conser-

knows that it will never go back to what

their guide for a Last Wild Places docu-

vation. She’s been a prominent voice in

she remembers as a child. Instead, her

mentary on the Florida panther that will

Southwest Florida for most of her life.

sense of urgency feels much more dire.

air this year. Osceola took the crew out for

She’s led and organized several peaceful

“I want to make sure that the Everglades

an overnight airboat tour, guiding them

protests to protect Florida lands, like

don’t disappear. It can happen,” she says.

to the tree island where the panther was

a 110-mile prayer walk around Lake

“When I speak to my grandchildren, I

spotted, while simultaneously detailing

Okeechobee to highlight its poor water

always talk about what I used to do. I

Dakota Access Pipeline protests.

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would hope that one day my grandchildren, or maybe their children or grandchildren, can say ‘We do, we live off the land.’” That’s why she uses every airboat tour as an opportunity—to answer questions about the Everglades from eager tourists, to teach about its delicate ecology, to explain its signif-

This year, Osceola appears in National Geographic’s Path of the

icance to her tribe, and most of all, to impart

Panther. Part of its Last Wild Places initiative, the effort aims to

her appreciation for nature to others. “My

gain formal protection of the Florida Wildlife Corridor—land the

goal is to share a glimpse,” Osceola says. “I

endangered panther needs to survive.

love my homeland, and my hope is to share that love, and maybe, somebody else will fall in love with it, too. I want to be that spark.”


I was widowed and broken, now restoring

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RETROSPECTIVE

CORKSCREW SWA MP SANCTUARY INSIDER

Collier County residents came together to create this 13,000-acre preserve that captures the essence of Old Florida.

On a calm, clear morning, birders,

Ph.D., explains. One of the strengths

visitors and volunteers stroll the

of the National Audubon Society, she

boardwalk at Audubon’s Corkscrew

adds, is that it not only focused on

Swamp Sanctuary, stopping to take in

wildlife protection, but also helped

views of towering bald cypress trees,

feather consumers to understand their

patiently waiting for the perfect photo

impact on the bird colonies.

of Florida wildlife or training their

In 1905, the National Audubon

binoculars to see which bucket-list

Society was founded in an effort

bird is perched nearby.

to protect all birds, including the

The 13,000-acre, privately owned

colonies of wading birds in Florida

Naples preserve is home to 17 wad-

that were under threat by the plume

ing bird species, most famously the

industry. In 1912, Corkscrew Swamp

formerly endangered wood stork.

got its first official warden in Rhett

The birds’ nesting success each year

Green of Fort Myers. The egrets and

is closely monitored and their popu-

their plumes were further protected

lation is an indicator of the health of

by the 1918 Migratory Bird Treaty

the wetlands. The wood stork features

Act and saw their numbers rebound.

prominently in the story of the sanc-

Decades later, a new threat faced the

tuary today, but, more than a century

birds and other wildlife that called the

ago, it was a different story starring a

swamp home—logging.

very different bird.

By 1954, only one virgin bald cy-

In the early 1900s, towering hats

press stand remained and was the

festooned with feathers were in fash-

primary nesting site for wood storks.

ion. Colonies of birds were hunted for

Korte notes that it was the efforts of

their plumage, including great egrets

the Naples community that brought

that nested in the Corkscrew Swamp.

about the preservation of the land.

“The recognition that the birds needed

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary was

to be protected is a key point in his-

established after 5,680 acres (includ-

tory,” Sanctuary director Lisa Korte,

ing a 640-acre gift from Lee-Tidewater

74

GULFSHORE LIFE

Courtesy RJ Wiley; Arnold Collens

By Anne Reed

g ulf shorelife.com


Cypress Company) were purchased. John H. Baker, then-president of the National Audubon Society, stated that the new sanctuary was the largest rookery of wood storks and egrets in the country, estimating its size at 8,000 to 10,000 birds. Construction on the boardwalk began in 1955 under the direction of Hank Bennett, the first sanctuary manager, with local brothers Sam, Bob, Stan and Fletcher Whidden wading in the swamp to complete the work. Water level data collection and wood stork nest monitoring started in 1958. Ed Carlson, sanctuary director emeritus, first visited the sanctuary in 1968 and spent that summer adding the section of the boardwalk that transformed it from a single out-and-back hike to a loop. “I loved that place so much,” Carlson says. “I was like a duck in water, just as happy as I could be.” Carlson worked at the sanctuary during his college years, then became a research biologist on the property until he accepted the position of sanctuary director in 1983, one year before the wood storks were added to the federal endangered species list. “I remember the days when there were thousands of nesting pairs of wood storks in the trees at Corkscrew,” Carlson says. The industrialization of local agriConstruction on Corkscrew’s 2.25-mile boardwalk began in 1955—not

culture, particularly citrus, caused a

long before efforts began to monitor water quality and bird populations.

major shift in land use, quickly followed by increased residential development. Though their nesting area in the sanc-

INSIDER

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INSIDER

feeding grounds at an alarming rate, continuing

ing an environmentally conscious parking lot;

the population’s decline.

replacing the boardwalk; and building the visitor

The push to preserve the watershed sur-

center, which opened in December 2000. “That

rounding the sanctuary led Carlson to sub-

really opened up the sanctuary to the public in

mit an application to Save Our Rivers, a land

new ways,” Korte says, noting that educating vis-

acquisition program through the South Florida

itors is key to helping them understand their role

Water Management District. He applied for a

in the watershed and become decision-makers

parcel, but the project sat until 1989 when the

about wetlands in their own communities.

formation of the Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem

The wood stork population has made a slow

Watershed (CREW) Land & Water Trust led to

comeback and their status was changed from

the establishment of a 60,000-acre watershed,

endangered to threatened in 2014. Data col-

of which the sanctuary was a part. Carlson for-

lection on water levels and wood stork nesting

merly served on the Board of Trustees for the

success continues at the sanctuary. Land preser-

CREW Trust and considers his part in the CREW

vation has helped the wood stork population but

Project one of the greatest accomplishments of

future restoration is key, including the removal

his life.

of invasive plants that threaten to alter the

Another great accomplishment was the sanc-

hydrology of the land. “I see the sanctuary as a

tuary’s capital campaign that started in 1994,

model for best practices for conservation,” Korte

which included the installation of the Living

says. “As a land owner, we have the ability to con-

Machine, a wastewater treatment system that

serve our land and be an example for others.”

76

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary/Allan D. Cruickshank

uses plants to treat and recycle water; build-

Corkscrew Swamp Santuary’s director, Lisa Korte, says.

tuary was preserved, wood storks were losing

“I see the Sanctuary as a model for best practices for conservation,”

RETROSPECTIVE


NCH NAMED AMONG THE

TOP FIVE PERCENT OF U.S. HOSPITALS BY HEALTHGRADES FOR THE FOURTH YEAR IN A ROW

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INSIDER GUEST LIST

AN EVENING WITH KIDS’ MINDS MATTER Hosted in support of Lee Health Foundation’s Kids’ Minds Matter at the private residence of John and Amy Quinn P h o to g ra p hy by A P Alexan der

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com


1 Amy and John Quinn 2 John and Carrie Cooney 3 Nina Van Arsdale, Jay Hartington, Victoria Watts 4 Mark and Irene Gladstein 5 Guests enjoy cocktail hour

4

6 Meghan Nichols Houde, Brooke Selvidio, Dani Glickson, Laina Kennedy

1

7 Ryann and Ron Cindrich

2

3

5

6 7

8

8 Tim Savage, Ashley Gerry, Stephanie Savage, Jennifer McCurry

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INSIDER GUEST LIST

THE LOVERLY GALA Hosted in support of Gulfshore Playhouse at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples P ho t o g ra p hy by L a ure n M a ri e

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com


1 Tyler Smith, Ashley Dewji 2 Kathy MacGillivray, Kristen Coury, Valerie Ghoussaini 3 Todd Gates and friends 4 Susan Gohl 5 Jack and Graceann Hoopes 6 Mary Pendergast 7 A jockey poses with the winning horse 8 Don and Darlene DeMichele

1

9 Lisa Lagemann, Sue Sanders

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2

3

4

7

6

5

8

INSIDER

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R END

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2. This delicate set includes a mabe pearl collar, in 18-karat gold and sterling silver, with matching post earrings. Available at Unique Boutique, 1185 Third St. S., Naples. (239) 643-8900; uniqueboutiquejewelry.com

3. White-on-white stripes lend a darling look to this halter dress, made with ever-so-soft rayon fabric. The springtime hemline, hitting above the knee, is flattering and effortlessly sophisticated. Available at Jennifer’s in The Design Center, 13251-111 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. (239) 481-8582; jennifersfortmyers.com

4. This slightly cropped, crew sweater with a textured honeycomb knit and relaxed fit is amazingly cozy, with raglan sleeves and ribbing detail on the neckline, cuffs and hem. Available at Jennifer’s in The Design Center, 13251111 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. (239) 481-8582; jennifersfortmyers.com


W

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1 2

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TRENDS

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NO _ 5 0 6

0 4 _ 2 0 21

Features

“Florida is wild. Anything we can do to approximate that wilderness is better for this state.” — R ick Molek, ow ner of Thr if t y Ga rden in For t Myers

p_ 86

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Defenders of the Gulf

98

Sustainable Chefs


DEFENDERS OF THE

These six heroes do more than their fair share to conser ve the natural and cultural assets that make this region paradise.


Getty


JENNIFER JONES D I R E C T O R , C E N T E R F O R E N V I R O N M E N TA L A N D S U S TA I NA B I L I T Y E D U C AT I O N, F L O R I D A G U L F C O A S T U N I V E R S I T Y, F O R T M Y E R S

Jennifer Jones, Ph.D., would argue

on-site food forest, 400 protected

that the impact of sustainable living

acres and LEED-certified buildings

reaches far beyond the changes we

have earned the college recognition

see outdoors. “Environmental is, of

as one of the most sustainable cam-

course, a key element in what most

puses in the country. And Jones is

of us are familiar with, but there’s

determined to extend that impact

also the social and economic aspect

into the community.

of sustainability,” she explains.

She recognizes that children are

As the director of the Center for

the future of our region. Since join-

Environmental and Sustainability

ing FGCU’s staff in 2019, Jones has

Education at Florida Gulf Coast

helped develop a year-long program,

University (FGCU), Jones is tasked

where Lee County K-12 teachers

with connecting students to fac-

join the university’s professors in

ulty mentors. She also teaches the

the field to develop environmen-

importance of sustainable living,

tal curricula for their students.

with a mind toward balancing the

Through Boys and Girls Club of

needs of urban growth with environ-

Collier County and Grace Place for

mental consciousness. She wants

Children and Families, Jones also

students to focus on how we can

introduced an eight-week program,

sustain growth efficiently. Shaping

which includes classes on watershed

a generation of leaders who are

issues, sea-level rise and other topics

conscious and equipped to handle

for after-school educators, with field-

issues like climate change and red-

based training for the kids, including

tide outbreaks requires educating

boat trips to Keewaydin Island. “It’s

them outside of ecological studies,

helping students understand what

she says. That’s partially why every

they need to do, not just giving them

student at FGCU—regardless of

information,” Jones says.

their major—is required to take the

Her goal: to cultivate Southwest

University Colloquium course, which

Florida as a place where environ-

touches on everything from Fort

mental and social responsibility are

Myers history to Sanibel’s waterways.

part of the fabric of the community.

Efforts such as these, along with the

—Tess Raines

88

GULFSHORE LIFE


John Brady

Jennifer Jones works to raise next-gen leaders who are socially and environmentally conscious, and ensures FGCU’s lauded eco-minded ethos extends beyond the campus.

89


John Brady

Through his garden shop, Rick Molek offers houseplant clinics and classes on butterfly gardening, composting and the power of native plants.

90

GULFSHORE LIFE


RICK MOLEK OW N E R , T H R I F T Y G A R D E N, F O RT M Y E R S

On a cool afternoon in early spring,

weed, firebush. Many natives, like

Rick Molek stands in the middle

the blue mistflower, aren’t commer-

of his test garden, barefoot. He’s

cially viable. They’re short-lived and

dressed in a short-sleeved blue shirt

reseed rapidly. But they’re a beautiful

and a pair of soft cotton trousers, the

addition to the landscape, and Molek

kind that could easily be hitched up

is quick to convince clients of this,

if he needed to bend down to inspect

educating them on the fact that many

a particularly interesting plant or a

natives, given the opportunity, will

Monarch butterfly drifting between

thrive. He’s a fan of wild gardening

sweet almond bushes.

and encourages his clients to leave

Molek owns Thrifty Garden, a

some space in their yards without

shop for all things plant-related in

deliberate landscaping. Not the

the historic Gardner’s Park district

whole area, necessarily, but a patch

near downtown Fort Myers. Since he

of it. A 5- by 5-foot plot works nicely.

opened the space in 2018, Molek has

“Let it surprise you,” he urges.

garnered a loyal following of plant

In his own garden, Molek has

enthusiasts. His specialties are wide

found that if he dithers too long on

ranging. He’s a certified Master Gar-

what to do with a particular stretch,

dener, and he offers in-home garden

the garden will figure it out for

consults, in-shop houseplant clinics

itself—usually in the form of native

and classes on everything from but-

wildflowers. These natives are key, he

terfly gardening to composting to

says, not just for the landscape but for

Florida-native landscapes.

the entire ecosystem: the birds, bugs

It’s this last topic that gets his hor-

and butterflies that rely on indige-

ticulturalist’s heart beating. In the

nous species. “Florida is wild,” Molek

garden behind his shop, Molek grows

says. “Anything we can do to approx-

a mix of natives and Florida-friendly

imate that wildness is better for this

plants—wild lime, salvia, giant milk-

state.” —Artis Henderson

91


RYA N O R G E R A C E O , S A N I B E L - C A P T I VA C O N S E R VA T I O N F O U N D AT I O N, S A N I B E L I S L A N D

From his scientific field of vision, Ryan

work our staff does is invaluable to

Orgera, Ph.D., CEO of Sanibel-Captiva

our decision-makers and the public

Conservation Foundation (SCCF),

alike,” Orgera says. “Our scientists

sees the islands’ waters at the mercy

provide crucial data used by water

of broken systems that require miti-

managers from Tallahassee to Cap-

gation and adaptation to fix.

tiva; our policy experts work hard to

From the perspective of a student

ensure smart policies are enacted; our

of romance languages and literature,

educators teach thousands each year

however, he reviews the situation in

about their connections to nature.”

a positive vein: “SCCF as an organi-

Before Orgera, people who have

zation and Sanibel and Captiva are

long followed SCCF would say that

really smart, easy reads; incredibly

the organization’s long-standing

sophisticated, airy works that leave

education mission had taken a

the readers with a sense of comfort

backseat to urgent water quality

and accomplishment.”

research issues (the latter of which

From his work on the Ending Ille-

was recently further fueled by a new,

gal Fishing Project and Global Shark

state-of-the-art laboratory on Tarpon

Conservation teams with The Pew

Bay, a partnership with J.N. “Ding”

Charitable Trusts, to teaching French

Darling National Wildlife Refuge).

and Italian at the university level and

Orgera soon got to work forming

serving in the U.S. Senate as an ocean,

another partnership, this one with

coastal and flood insurance policy

the existing Sanibel Sea School, to

expert—Orgera arrived at SCCF in

strengthen SCCF’s education mis-

2019 toting a heavily loaded toolbox.

sion. Also under his watch, the orga-

Like its CEO, the 53-year-old

nization’s original campus has been

SCCF diversifies its interests. Its

restored from hurricane damage to

list of initiatives is staggering: land

once again provide trails and a con-

acquisition, water-quality research,

nection with nature. “I am proudest

sea turtle and shorebird nest mon-

of our staff’s ability to be a voice for

itoring, illegal land turtle trading,

our natural world and to always fight

oyster bed restoration, native plant

for it using science and heart,” he

gardening, policy making. “The

says. —Chelle Koster Walton

92

GULFSHORE LIFE


John Brady

Since joining SCCF in 2019, Ryan Orgera has bolstered the organization’s education mission and led efforts to restore the original campus and its public access, connecting more people to the outdoors.

93


John Brady

Elizabeth and Derek Coquillard make it easy to shop and eat local through their co-op that sells fresh food from area farms. Orders can be placed online and delivered straight to shoppers’ homes.

94

GULFSHORE LIFE


DEREK AND ELIZABETH COQUILLARD O W N E R S , S W F L P R O D U C E , P U N TA G O R D A

From 10 acres in Punta Gorda, hus-

of 10 varieties of heirloom tomatoes

band-wife duo Elizabeth and Derek

(their specialty), lychees, mangoes,

Coquillard, owners of SWFL Produce

avocados, sugar apples and chickens.

(a co-op that sells and distributes

Because the ground crops grow verti-

food grown in area farms, including

cally, the operation requires less land

their own, to shoppers across the

than a conventional produce farm.

region) make it easy for people to eat

Water circulates through the irri-

local. They also show how farms can

gation-fertilization system, cutting

nurture their communities beyond

down on their use of soil and water.

merely feeding them: The couple

Sealed greenhouses keep out bugs,

support other small farms by work-

meaning no pesticides.

ing as a co-op, saving farmers some of

Derek, a third-generation farmer,

the business costs. Their Florganica

and Elizabeth partner with other

Farms uses innovative hydroponic

farmers to deliver a wide variety of

methods to lower its carbon foot-

produce, eggs, honey, coffee, meat

print. They require high standards

and more to their customers who

from partner farms. Through their

order online. Since the pandemic,

delivery system, they’ve helped cus-

the Coquillards also started trucking

tomers avoid coronavirus exposure,

in produce that can’t grow in Florida

and employed locals who lost their

from California.

jobs during the pandemic to help with

Unlike most CSAs, SWFL Produce

deliveries. Elizabeth also teaches par-

supports foster care and discounted

ents how to feed their kids healthily,

food stamp programs. A subscription

with Facebook posts aimed at stem-

is not required, but it’s available to

ming child obesity.

regulars. All customers can pick up

But have no doubt, they do feed

their a la carte orders at the facility,

their community—and they do so

at one of six drop-off spots through-

well and affordably, from Venice to

out the region, or pay a $5 flat fee for

Marco Island. Unlike most other

home delivery (waived for orders

local community-supported agricul-

over $50). “We just wanted to start

ture (CSA) groups that are attached

delivering conveniently so people can

to just one grower, SWFL Produce

eat healthy, without any excuses, no

partners with eight small, sustainable

matter what their financial situation,”

farms to complement its own supply

Elizabeth says. —C.K.W.

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JOHN BRADY L A N D S C A P E P H O T O G R A P H E R , NA P L E S

Spend enough time in the Evergla-

a 60-pound backpack filled with gear,

des, and you’ll start collecting stories

including an Ebony view camera and

about wildlife encounters. Landscape

sheets of film.

photographer John Brady has plenty.

His fascination also led him to

The 62-year-old, who’s spent

discover the Everglades Wonder

20-plus years photographing Florida,

Gardens in Bonita Springs. In 2013,

recalls a time in 2001 when he, his

when he learned the site was for

wife and kids had just moved from

sale, he worried the land would be

upstate New York to Naples. Brady

developed into condominiums, so

was hiking a trail in Fakahatchee

he approached the owner, with an

Strand State Preserve when he spot-

offer. “He wanted $4.5 million, and

ted a 12-foot alligator in the middle

I was in no position to purchase the

of the path. Not seeing a way around

property,” Brady says.

the gator, Brady turned to head back—

Brady asked to lease the three acres

only to come across a nearly 350-

until he found a buyer. During the

pound black bear on all fours. “He just

next two years, Brady and his family

took off, and it sounded like a locomo-

worked to transform the Wonder

tive going through the swamp,” Brady

Gardens into a botanical jungle with

recalls. “So, he’s running through the

birds and reptiles. With Ellie Krier,

swamp, and I’m running down the

of the Southwest Florida Land Pres-

trail back to my truck.”

ervation Trust, Brady also helped

What makes treks like these into

form the nonprofit that manages that

the depths of the Everglades worth

park’s operations today. “We owe a

it for him is the potential of captur-

debt of gratitude to John for his hard

ing a great image of undisturbed

work and passion to save the Wonder

flora, like Cypress trees—“one of

Gardens and preserve its legacy,”

the most beautiful trees and one of

David Webb, executive director of the

the oldest living organisms on the

park, says. “John was instrumental in

planet,” he says—and spending time

establishing the path toward preser-

in these remote places. He shoulders

vation.” —Alyssa Morlacci

96

GULFSHORE LIFE


John Brady

Photographer John Brady has been documenting the Everglades for more than 20 years, and was instrumental in the preservation of Bonita Springs’ Everglades Wonder Gardens. For this story, he traversed the region to meet and capture all of this year’s Defenders of the Gulf, including himself with this self-portrait.

97


Oh, The Lengths They Go L o c a l c h e f s g o t h e ex t r a m i l e, w r e s t l i n g w i t h a m b i g u i t i e s , t o l i g h t e n t h e i r footprint and impact on Mother Ear th.

B y C h e l l e K o s t e r Wa l t o n P h o t o g r a p h y by B r i a n T i e t z



C

onsider this: Buying food from local sources keeps the carbon footprint shallow. On the other hand, it sometimes makes sense for a

restaurant to branch out geographically for products that are raised on regenerative farms and in intelligent fisheries. More inconsistencies in the world of sustainable food exist. Plant-based diets, for instance, are good for the body and the planet. This often involves working with protein alternatives. Yet, you have to consider how the ingredients for plant-based proteins are produced, and sometimes manipulating vegetables to taste and feel like meat requires additives that can mess with how you feel. Another example: Carefully sourced, farm-raised fish are healthier and can save depleting wild populations. The catch here? Locally, environmental organizations protest the increase in nutrients the farms can bring, potentially causing more red tide outbreaks. So, what makes the best sustainable restaurants? The answer is not always clear-cut, but today’s conscientious chefs agree the effort is essential for the future of their business and our world. Some local chefs leap quantumly beyond the bounds of early definitions of sustainability and battle with the double-edged sword of inconsistencies. One could point to chef Jeff Mitchell at The Local as the region’s pioneer in restaurant sustainability, and few would argue. “We knew it was going to be a challenge when we first started,” Mitchell, who opened his Naples locavore restaurant in 2013, says. “All the verbiage was saying it’s a trend, but it’s not a trend at all. It’s the way people have been cooking for generations.”

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GULFSHORE LIFE


When chef Jeff Mitchell from The Local first started eight years ago, he was considered a sustainable food pioneer in the area. He sources as much of his ingredients as he can within a 100-mile radius, including from the six-acre Inyoni Organic Farm.

101


Since starting at Ridgway Bar & Grill in July, executive sous-chef Micole Rivera Suárez, has been educating the restaurant’s staff on cooking plant-based dishes, using local ingredients and eliminating food waste. Below: Ridgway’s sauteed veal scaloppini with ricotta and spinach gnocchi.

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GULFSHORE LIFE


Having grown up in Michigan eating garden-grown food and learning from his grandparents, who owned an Italian restaurant in Detroit, he wanted his three boys to eat the same way. He couldn’t reconcile cooking one way at home and another at his restaurant, so he decided to cook only what was healthy for his guests and his planet. He strives to keep his food sources within a 100-mile range. Naysayers warned him that Florida’s growing season would make it difficult to get fresh local product. “Florida’s growing season compared to Michigan!” he says. “We have nine months-plus. It was actually easier.” The biggest challenge was developing a network of like-minded people to meet his grocery list. Sustainability was not in the vocabulary of a lot of local chefs back then. Now, it has snowballed and become easier. More demand means more growers and vendors, which means more restaurants getting on board. Sit down for dinner at A Table Apart in Bonita Springs, and the first thing you read on the menu is chef Jarrod Davis’ manifesto, which includes the words: “Whenever possible, we source items locally to support our community and we are proud to use several small vendors versus one big box company for our products. Although these standards may

10 3


increase our costs and limit our sources, we believe that we are taking the correct approach to serving you the freshest, highest quality food.” Ridgway Bar & Grill boarded the sustainability bus recently. New executive sous-chef Micole Rivera Suárez gets a lot of the credit for that. Since she entered the kitchen last July, she has been training staff about eliminating food waste, cooking plantbased and sourcing locally. “People are demanding local,” she says. “People want to be sustainable and know where their food comes from. People are understanding processes and food. They understand it’s our responsibility to be able to all work in that local range and to sustain ourselves.” Sea Salt Naples, like The Local, has climbed the uphill battle toward sustainability, having opened in 2008 with a seafood focus. “The most important thing was keeping with it and sharing with guests what they’re getting is sustainable fish and why it’s better,” Corporate Executive Chef Jason Goddard says. He understands from his years of monitoring CleanFish and Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch lists that local isn’t always necessarily the most sustainable when it comes to seafood. Currently, he gets highest quality Ōra King salmon—a fish not available locally—from a farm in New Zealand. “Farmed fish!” he says. “Thirty years ago, because of poor farming practices, you’d be booed out of the room for mentioning it.” That was before aquaculture moved to open waters. Backlash still exists, however. On Sanibel Island, the SanibelCaptiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) and others protest plans for a fish farm in local waters, fearing its effect on water-quality issues that have plagued the region for more than a decade. Everett Fromm, culinary director and chef at Hogfish Harry’s in Naples, sees both sides of the issue. He

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GULFSHORE LIFE


Jason Goddard, corporate executive chef for the Aielli Group, works with sustainable fish farms in New Zealand and a regenerative cattle ranch in North Carolina, among other ecologically minded producers, to source Sea Salt Naples’ and Dorona Modern Italian Steakhouse’s superior seafood and beef-centric menus.

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At Hogfish Harry’s, culinary director Everett Fromm often creates dishes using underutilized species. Top right: Fromm’s pan-roasted hogfish; left: hogfish ready to be cooked and served.


would love to get his hands on the high-end almaco jack species the farm proposes to introduce, but is concerned about long-term effects on the environment. “The companies that start these farms may have good intentions, but need to proceed with caution, studying the marine life habitat around their pins (industry name for cages), ensuring that wild fish are not affected by any chemicals or toxins, good or bad, that may be released in this trial process,” Fromm says. His restaurant’s name points to its focus on seafood. The hogfish itself is sustainably fished by most sources. Fromm’s supply comes from the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Other species he purchases from purveyors in Miami. “We use fish and other seafood items that are not a targeted species,” Fromm says. These species include underutilized fish such as mutton snapper, triggerfish and farmed cobia. He likes to use mahi-mahi because it’s the fastest-growing fish in the ocean. “The most important step for us is to have a good honest relationship with our purveyors to make sure they are following all guidelines to sustainability,” he says, adding that government controls are often in place. “These efforts are important to ensure the species stay populated and healthy for future generations.” Chef Asif Syed of 21 Spices in Naples agrees: “The most important step is to understand the whole production chain from seed to harvest for every ingredient you use in the restaurant.” Goddard, who also oversees Dorona Modern Italian Steakhouse, concurs, especially where live-

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stock is concerned. He personally visits sources such as Joyce Farms, a co-op in North Carolina, to witness its standard of regenerative methods such as no-till growing. The problem with regenerative farming, however, is that, unlike commodity or mass-scale farming, plants and animals are often more slow-growing and require the attention of a small operation. Small farms cannot provide steady supply, which is why Goddard believes co-ops are the way of the future. Although he admires strides being made in plantbased cuisine, he believes the drive to make plants simulate the texture and taste of meat and dairy often results in the unnatural manipulation of products. “Manipulating those textures to taste like something else sometimes uses additives the body doesn’t like,” Goddard says. Syed, however, believes his greatest effort for sustainability is a steady focus on vegetarian, vegan and plant-based cuisine. In 2018, he was selected for a James Beard Boot Camp that was partially devoted to sustainability. In 2019, he was invited to speak on the topic at NaplesNEXT. People are not only looking to lessen the impact of meat on their health, he says, but are becoming increasingly aware of how livestock affects greenhouse gases and climate change. One of Naples’ first Blue Zone-certified restaurants, his also works closely with the nonprofit, aPlantBasedDiet. org. “As a chef with over 25 years of experience, I can see the revolution to a more health-conscious lifestyle, where people seek plant-based options nowadays more than ever,” he says.

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GULFSHORE LIFE


Goddard and other chefs make sure nothing goes to waste in their kitchens, using leftover proteins and vegetables in homemade stocks or for other dishes. Below: The locally caught red snapper filet at Dorona.

10 9


Plant-based meals are another avenue by which chefs raise their sustainability quotient. Top right: the stacked heirloom tomatoes from Chops City Grill, where chef Skip Quillen serves 30 vegetarian sides.

11 0

GULFSHORE LIFE


Skip Quillen, who offers 30 vegetarian side dishes at his Chops City Grill steakhouse in Naples, sees vegetarian and vegan diets as a growing trend but not a passing fad. “I believe a plant-based lifestyle is here to stay and only increases in time.” Mitchell sees the same trend at The Local, where he has been increasing the number of vegan and vegetarian options, some of the most popular dishes on his menu. But he also understands that produce can negatively impact climate change when discarded into the landfill, where it produces methane gas. That’s why he is militant about using every part of the plant or animal that comes into his kitchen. While most chefs are waste-conscious—using leftovers in soups, daily specials, employee meals and such—he pickles and preserves and makes granita and charcuterie. “The Italians have a saying for it: niente nella spazzatura,” says Goddard. “Nothing goes in the garbage.” Suárez at Ridgway repurposes scraps for other dishes—such as the tomato marmalade she makes from leftovers of a veal dish using only the tomato skins. Syed composts his leftovers in his own garden. “We as chefs have the responsibility to fight against the abusive way parts of the food industry are acting,” he asserts. “The carbon dioxide footprint of agriculture has had a devastating impact on our environment, and each of us needs to take a stand against it. We have to go back to our roots and appreciate what the seasons are naturally offering us. We need to stop manipulating and abusing nature for our convenience.”

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Glorious Food, Great Shops & Graceful Byways Soak in the historic charm of Naples’ first neighborhood.

Third Street South Events Third Street South Farmer’s Market each Saturday, 7:30-11:30am Spring Sidewalk Sale, April 8-11

Third Street South Shopping Over 65 High-End Shops and Galleries Women’s, Men’s and Children’s Clothes Fine Jewelry and Accessories Interiors and Gardens Antiques and Fine Art Gift and Pets Gourmet Wine and Food

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Here Comes the Fun A NEW ER A OF MAKING I T CO U N T, R U N N I N G WILD A ND ENJOYING THE LITTLE THINGS.


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C ONTEN TS

48 / Stylish Moms who Parent with Purpose 54 / Bleu Provence Chef’s Kid-Friendly Crêpes

Rochelle Shucart

62 / A Pro Player Family Centered on Giving

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CAN YOU GROW YOUR VALUES WITH YOUR WEALTH?

What is it you really want to give them? Your values have helped you succeed—and they are the most special thing your children can inherit. Having a plan is essential. We can help.

Fort Myers • Bonita Springs • Charleston • Estero • Naples • Palm Beach • Scottsdale www.finemarkbank.com • 239-461-5900 • Member FDIC • Equal Housing Lender Trust and investment services are not FDIC insured, are not guaranteed by the bank and may lose value.


C ONTEN TS ESSENTIALS

MINDFUL PARENTING

FAMILY TIME

16 / Style: Henri Noël’s Mommy-and-Me Jewelry

30 / Design Notes: Ultimate Homeschool Setup

70 / Little Bites: KidApproved Restaurants

18 / Beauty: Skincare that Gives Back

32 / Supermom: Concierge Pediatrician Dr. Sara Lane

74 / On the Road: Getaways Close to Home

20 / Celebrate: The Sleepover Fairy

38 / Book Club: Local Librarian Picks

81 / SWFL Explorer: Where to Discover Nature

22 / Gear: A Beach-Friendly Stroller

40 / Dad’s Corner: Developer and Coach John Quinn

88 / Editors’ Pick: The Perfect Summer Look

42 / Movement: Yoga for Children

16

Courtesy Henri Noël Fine Jewelry/Luminaire Foto; Anna Nguyen; Courtesy The Pier

24 / The Edit: Mommy Must-Haves

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DISCOVER THE CANTERBURY ADVANTAGE!

Learn more by visting our website or calling our admission office today! www.canterburyfortmyers.org 8141 College Parkway, Fort Myers, FL 33919 • 239.415.8945 Independent PK3-12 College Prep School • Member of The National Association of Independent Schools • Accredited by The Florida Council of Independent Schools


PRODUCTION

Editor-in-Chief

Staff Writer

Marketing Consultants

Stephanie Granada

Tess Raines

Wendy Tooley

Production Manager

Mindy Roosa

Martha Leavitt

Creative Director

Editorial Interns

Scott Glick Managing Editor Andrea Stetson

Katie Roberts Samantha Roesler Copy Editor Ruksana Hussain

Contributing Editor

Lauren Iorizzo

MARKETING

Production Services Manager Ankita Joshi

Director of Marketing

ADMINISTRATION

and Events

Advertising Services Manager/

Rachel Galante

Reprint Sales & Distribution Kathleen Hill

Jennifer McCurry

ART

Editor-at-Large

Felipe Echeverria

Art Directors

Dorothea Hunter Sönne

Mary Rich

Associate Editor

ADVERTISING

Jaynie Bartley

Holly Baldwin

Digital Media Marketing Manager Brittney Kleis Circulation Director of Audience

Associate Publisher

Development Kerri Nolan

Kimberley Evans

EVERY STUDENT EVERY DAY

13275 Livingston Road | Naples, Florida 34109 | 239-597-7575 | www.communityschoolnaples.org |

@CSN_Naples


Sometimes, they're not

just being teenagers.

Sometimes,

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more.

For over 50 years, David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health has served children and families struggling with mental health and substance use issues by providing:

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• Children’s Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) • In-Home Services and more

Click or Call To Connect to Care Today

DLCenters.org | 239-455-8500


From the Editors

Parenting in Paradise

Every parent we talked to while

portunities available here. You'll

Jennifer McCurry. We also tapped

producing this book said the

read about inspiring parents, like

Andrea Stetson, who raised her

same thing: our region’s growth

Dr. Sara Lane, a concierge pedi-

kids here and has been covering

(which brings with it an abun-

atrician in Fort Myers (pictured

the family beat for more than a

dance of family-friendly offerings

above with her 2-year-old Syd-

decade. Along with the input from

and big-city amenities), along

ney), and John Quinn, a devel-

our editor-at-large and mother of

with the enviable weather that al-

oper, investor and co-founder

two Dorothea Hunter Sönne and

lows for year-round outdoor rec-

of the mental health nonprofit

other plugged-in parents, we cre-

reation, and the small-town vibe

Fountain 33 Foundation. He jug-

ated MINI to celebrate the best of

our region retains, makes this an

gles all that with coaching his

our region: you and your children

ideal place to raise a family.

daughter's lacrosse team at Com-

who are daily shaping the future

We know parents today are

munity School of Naples. You'll

of Southwest Florida. We hope

mindful about raising children

also find ideas for fun restaurants

this first edition inspires you as

who are kind, conscientious,

to dine with the kids, a primer on

you make the most of family life in

creative and deeply connected

the many benefits of yoga for

paradise.

to their communities. That’s why

children and a field guide on the

we launched this publication—to

most beautiful places to take kid-

capture these ideas and connect

dos to boost their appreciation

young families with the many op-

for nature.

— The Gulfshore Life Team Anna Nguyen

When developing the stories, we recruited the help of dear friend and in-the-know mother

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EN ROLL NO W FOR TH E 2021-22 SCHO OL YEA R G O TO M ASON A C A DEMY. COM

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3073 Horseshoe Drive South | Naples, FL 34104 | (239) 227-2838 | Info@Masonacademy.com


From the Contributing Editor

Pearls of Wisdom

As a mother of twin 4-year-old

with a picture of your child’s art-

es our family what it means to

boys, I know how valuable a trust-

work, are perfect for mothers

care about our environment.

ed suggestion for a pediatrician,

to mark special moments) and

Speaking with fellow mothers,

nanny service or kid-friendly res-

Monogram Goods, where I often

exploring new territory and get-

taurant can be. Yes, you may call a

go for personalized gifts.

ting better acquainted with what

friend in a pinch for guidance, but

While we have the internet at

our community has to offer ma-

having a well-curated list of the

our fingertips and can order from

kes me a better mother. That’s why

top-rated community resources

any website, we crave that per-

I’m proud to be a part of this pub-

for young parents is much-needed

sonal touch that only a familiar,

lication that aims to be a reliable

in Southwest Florida. That’s why I

local business can give. Excellent

and trusted resource for parents

jumped at the opportunity to col-

service, trust and expertise are a

on their journey.

laborate on MINI.

priority when purchasing for our-

Today’s parents are conscious

selves and, even more so, when

about supporting their communi-

buying for our children.

ty and the environment, and thro-

When seeking out ideas for

ugh working on this publication,

the “Mommy Must-Haves” story

I have become more attuned to

on p. 24, I enlisted a few “super

the many options available in our

mothers” to provide their most

region. I especially loved discov-

trusted resources. I visited sever-

ering new independent shops

al of these places to see for my-

to add to my list of local go-tos,

self. At Pop Toy Co., co-owner

like Marissa Collections (the bou-

Sarah Beyrent kindly walked me

tique’s Monica Rich Kosann lock-

through the store, pointing out an

ets, which can be customized

age-appropriate gift for a friend’s little girl, unique collectible pi-

Jennifer McCurry Contributing Editor

rates and a kite for my two boys. It was so refreshing to have someone think for you and honestly care about your purchase. Brian Tietz

In Fort Myers, I was intrigued to find that the waste-free sustainable store Conscious Space teach-

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r e m m Su

P M CA

at

SKILLS-BASED and P E R F O R M A N C E CLASSES

FOR AGES 4-17 Acting, singing, dancing, teamwork, friends, and fun are all in store at our KidzAct Summer Arts Camp at TNP

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YOUNG P E RF OR M ER ’ S EDI T I O N

LEARN MORE & SIGN UP AT: NaplesPlayers.org 239.434.7340, Ext. 127 Need-based scholarships are available. Application available online.


Parenting in Paradise

Here Comes the Fun A NEW ER A OF MAKING IT CO U N T, RU N N I N G W I L D A N D ENJOYING THE LIT TLE THINGS.

Pa r e n t i n g i n Pa ra d i s e

@GULFSHORELIFEMINI


ESSENTIAL S Fun discoveries, products we love and other inspirations for the modern parent.


Style

After her sister’s daughter, Lena, was born last fall, Vivian Grimes, of Henri Noël Fine Jewelry, started dreaming up ideas for mini diamond stud earrings, bracelets and necklaces. “Maybe I am biased because I am her aunt, but to me she is just magic,” Grimes says. That ethereal quality is matched by Henri Noël’s recently launched line of earrings for babies and toddlers and dainty mommy-and-me bracelets, with the kids’ styles designed to grow with them. This month, Grimes also debuts a range of paperclip bracelets that can be paired with diamond-studded initials, which she says make the perfect push gift or Mothers’ Day memento. You can add more letters as other special occasions arrive. henrinoel.com

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Courtesy Henri Noël Fine Jewelry/Luminaire Foto

Mommy-and-Me Jewelry


Exploration in Bloom!

239.643.7275

Advance ticket reservations required


Shopping

Celebrate

Sweet Dreams Love the party-in-a-box concept? Naples-born KidsDreamFactory takes it to the next level with its range of pop-up sleepovers, outdoor movie nights, spa parties, glamping kits and other immersive experiences for little ones. You can choose from 20 themes—including Star Wars, Sports and Under the Sea—or develop your own, and the team will take care of everything. For a backyard slumber party, for example, they may show up to your home with handmade teepees, plush mattresses, cushions, picnic by her daughter. Schroeder had already been planning children’s parties for years and wanted to elevate the experience, while taking all the stress away from parents. The idea, she says, is to create gatherings that are “memorable for the children, while also being incredibly Instagramable for the parents.” kidsdreamfactory.com

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Courtesy KidsDreamFactory

tables, rugs and decor. German transplant Sabine Schroeder, a former physician assistant, launched the company in 2018 inspired



Beauty

Skin Deep

THE LAUNCH Naples mom of four Victoria Watts debuted Victorialand Beauty when, after two years of experimentation, she discovered the right mix of natural ingredients in her kitchen to tackle her own skin issues. She wanted to create products that would reveal radiant skin and eliminate the need for makeup. Her Skin-Loving Moisturizer launched three years ago, and was followed by an eye and lip treatment, sleep mask and a facial oil. Her secret weapon? Rosehip seed oil. “That was the ingredient that made the impact,” she says. “I’m 46 Department at Boston Children’s Hospital, where her son has been

Southwest Florida Food & Wine Festival's Big Vision

GIVING BACK

treated, and she works with SWFL

Philanthropy is at the heart of her brand.

Children's Charities to help local kids

Victoria Watts is one of the SWFL

Her youngest son, Cyrus, was born

with vision issues.

Children's Charities' supporters

with a visual impairment that left him

who is hosting a dinner for this

legally blind. Since few companies use

WHAT’S NEXT

year's Southwest Florida Food &

braille on their labels, Watts created The

Watts has big plans for the brand in

Wine Festival. Themed "Out of

CyR.U.S. System Of Raised Universal

2022. In addition to launching three new

the Darkness and Into the Light,"

Symbols, so that products would be

products—a face wash, an exfoliator and

the fundraiser includes a virtual

easily accessible to those with visual

a serum, she’s also planning to revamp

auction and a series of intimate

impairments (like using a crescent moon

the packaging with new symbols to

dinners taking place at locals’ homes

to identify a sleep mask). She embosses

help identify products and working to

throughout the region on April 24.

the QR codes, so customers with vision

create the CyR.U.S. Institute, which will

This year, proceeds from the event

issues can easily scan them to hear

allow other brands to license the raised

will all go toward funding the SWFL

the list of ingredients, instructions and

symbols for their products. “I want to

Children’s Charities Eye Institute of

other product information. Watts also

essentially create a universal symbol

Golisano Children’s Hospital, which

launched VLB Gives Back, through

message for all beauty brands,” Watts

is slated to open this fall as the first

which she donates 2% of every sale

says. “And this should go beyond beauty,

medical center of its kind in our

to the Pediatric Ophthalmology

too.” victorialandbeauty.com

region. swflwinefest.org

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Courtesy Victorialand Beauty

years old and I don’t wear makeup.”


Caring People, Caring for Kids Our devoted staff at Golisano Children’s Hospital specializes in complete, compassionate care. 24/7 ER built for kids

Dedicated heart center

Burn service and sedation center

NICU/PICU

Child advocacy/child life programs

Kids’ Urgent Care/Specialty Center in the heart of Naples Specialized services for nearly any condition Awards for safety, innovation, and our beautiful campus

All Lee Health facilities are following the highest safety protocols to keep you protected during these times.

gogolisano.com

6000.415 • 2/21


Gear

Four Wheeling

harnesses (or you can attach an adapter to attach a car seat for an infant). All-terrain wheels rumble over wooded areas and pivot through sand, while the breathable canopy

be a feat. That's why Veer’s Cruiser Wagon,

and ventilated seats ensure everyone inside

which is tailor-made for active families who

remains cool. Plenty of add-ons—from bug

roll through varied terrains in pursuit of nature,

shields to misting fans—are also available. The

remains a favorite for coastal fams. With its

self-standing frame is easy to fold open and

aircraft-grade aluminum structure, the dou-

close with one hand, and thanks to the drop-

ble stroller-wagon hybrid is easy to push or

down footwell, the wagon grows with your

pull with two tots aboard, secured with safety

babe. $599; goveer.com

Courtesy Veer

Finding strollers that work on the beach can

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TOGETHER - VIBRANT - SAFE

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2021-2022 SCHOOL YEAR

SCAN THE QR

The Village School of Naples 6000 Goodlette-Frank Road N. Naples, FL 34109 | 239-593-7686 www.villageschoolnaples.org

LEARN MORE

The Village School provides an environment that EMPOWERS and INSPIRES students to think and CREATE solutions to challenges in an ever-changing world. Are you ready to become a Knight for Life?


The Edit

Mommy Must-Haves MINI contributing editor Jennifer McCurry shares ideas for little somethings every mom will love.

CHIC AND DURABLE Made in Australia, this eco-friendly Kids Beach Toy Set is sturdy enough to handle Florida’s weather and comes with a mesh carrying bag, so you keep the sand at the beach. The modern, stylish set comes in four pastel colors. $59; thebeachpeople.co.

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PICTURE-PERFECT This Naples-based online boutique covers your newborn in love with accessories and photo props like the Rainbow Mohair Wrap & Tieback set. The wraps, headbands and tiebacks are hand-knitted and extra soft on your baby’s skin. $28;

Courtesy The Beach People/Jenavieve Belair; The Tiny Blessings Boutique/Andrea Fuller Photography; Bella Notte Linen

tinyblessingsboutique.com.

WRAPPED IN LUXURY Whether trimmed with ruffles like the Loulah Baby Blanket (right) or smooth-textured like the Silk Velvet Quilted Baby Blanket these throws are pure luxury. Bella Notte’s machine-washable products are handsewn in California and come in several jewel tones. From $330; lulubelleofnaples.com.

ESSENTIALS

25


The Edit

TRUE COMFORT Your baby will rest easy with the Organic Cotton Quilted Snuggle Sack by Coyuchi. I love the no-fuss zipper and the quilted satin finish on this snuggle sack made with 300-threadcount organic cotton. It comes in three colors and fits babies up to 12 months, but you’ll wish it came in adult sizes. Find it at Food & Thought in Naples. $58; foodandthought.com.

MEET FLO MAFLINGO Jellycats are my go-to gift for any toddler. Made in London, these quirky and ultra-soft toys are a favorite among kids and moms. The plush and huggable Flo Maflingo Little is one of the top sellers at Pop Toy Co. in Galleria Shoppes at Vanderbilt. $19.99;

ANIMAL HOUSE Fort Myers’ Conscious Space, the first zero-waste store in Southwest Florida, promotes green living for the entire family. Minimize plastic with these darling, handcrafted Kids Wooden Plates. The animal-shaped pine wood platters are durable and sustainable. $16; shopconsciouspace.com.

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Courtesy Jellycat London; Coyuchi; Zefiro/Meredith Brooke; Craig Hildebrand

poptoyco.com.


ROBE APPEAL After their bath, the pool or a day at the beach, my kids absolutely love these Child’s Shawl Collar Bath Robes from Monogram Goods on Third Street South in Naples. Monogram your toddler’s name or customize with trucks, trains or ladybugs. $60; monogramgoods.com

JUMP START KIDS KIDS DANCE AND GOLF LESSONS WWW.JUMPSTARTKIDSGOLF.COM

239-946-4776

@JUMPSTARTKIDSSWFL



MI ND FUL PA REN TIN G Notes on learning, nurturing your bond and raising the next generation of changemakers.


Design Notes

Schoolhouse Rock Brooke Meyer of Design West shares how to elevate a homeschool setup.

connection, the surroundings of their learning space can make a huge difference in how they focus and engage in their remote classes. For parents continuing with homeschooling or simply allotting space in the home for school work

Words: Michael Korb

and tutoring, there are many ways to enhance the experience. Brooke

Fun furnishings with rounded edges are safer and boost creativity; a colorful home gym helps kids stay active. From lef t: B Table and B Bench, rafakids.com; Bubble Gum Gym, circu.com

While homeschooling has been

Meyer, lead interior designer with

steadily gaining traction for years, the

Design West and mother of two, is

pandemic made it something every

particularly keen on making sure her

parent needed to get familiar with—

kids’ curiosity is satisfied. She uses

fast. Aside from making sure your

maps of various cities, countries

little ones have a reliable internet

and continents to fuel interest in places they can hope to visit after the pandemic. “My daughter is very interested in that—I show her those maps and photos of places we’ve been so she can explore the world from here,” Meyer says. The designer also makes kids’ spaces safer by using round-edge tables, plush rugs and low-level storage, so things can be put away without worry. She points out the connection between design and psychology (her minor in college): “Uniquely shaped furniture nurtures the creative side. It helps kids think

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Courtesy Rafa Kids; Circu

outside of the box.”

g ulf shorelife.com


For whimsical and chic furnishings, Rafa Kids designs desks, chairs and other pieces that are on-trend and functional. You can also keep kids engaged in physical activities between lessons with an indoor home gym.

BUILD A HOME TO

build memories in When you build with Daniel Wayne Homes, you’re not just creating a house. You’re designing the place where your family will grow, a space where stories and laughter will be shared.

Specializing in quality custom-built homes and personalized customer service, Daniel Wayne Homes is the expert to help you and your family realize the home of your dreams. Explore the variety of floorplans, including a multigenerational option, at DanielWayneHomes.com, or call 239-466-3955. Contact us today to learn more or get started on your dream home.

Explore your many floor plan options and get in touch at DanielWayneHomes.com.

CGC034850

31


Supermom

The Doctor Is In Fort Myers-based concierge pediatrician Sara Lane on parenting and doctoring during a pandemic.

Words: Alyssa Morlacci Photography: Anna Nguyen

During house calls for newborn

unlimited access to appointments.

babies, pediatrician Dr. Sara Lane

That includes her cell phone number,

rings the doorbell wearing an N95

where she can be reached with

mask. She arrives with a baby scale

questions about anything from

under one arm and a diaper bag in

medical concerns to prescription

the other that’s filled with monitors, a

refills. “It’s like having your best

stethoscope and a laptop for taking

friend who’s a pediatrician,” she says.

notes. “I’m in the market for a fancy

When COVID-19 became a

wheeled bag, but I haven’t gotten

concern last February, Lane received

there yet,” she says with a laugh.

an influx of calls and texts from her

The Fort Myers native and single

patients with questions about the

mother of two, 5-year-old Ryan and

virus and queries regarding tests,

2-year-old Sydney, launched Lane

which Lane was able to administer

Pediatrics in 2014. Now, she offers

to families. She became the

direct primary care, with services

unofficial COVID-19 advisor at Saint

starting at $100 per month for

Michael Lutheran School, where her kids attend. During the summer, she spent hours researching the reopening plans for schools around the country and reviewing Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines with the school’s principal and nurse to implement a plan for a safe reopening. Before switching to concierge medicine, Lane spent five years running a larger, insurance-based practice in Estero, where she juggled more than 1,700 patients: “I distinctly

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As a concierge doctor, Sara Lane’s patients can connect with her anytime via calls, texts, video chats or in-person home visits. Though it may seem more demanding, the personalized model allows her more time to spend with her two kids.

M I N D F U L PA R E N T I N G

33


Supermom

Lane believes mothering is the best education for being a pediatrician. Her experience as a single mom of 5-year-old Ryan and 2-year-old Sydney makes her more empathetic to families’ needs.

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remember having a newborn and a toddler, and the toddler would sit on my bed watching the iPad while I nursed the baby to sleep in the rocker. Then I’d put the baby down, and crawl in bed with my toddler with my laptop to do three hours of work while he fell asleep.” Lane decided the demands of

to empathize a lot more with what

her job were no longer sustainable

my families are going through,” she

with two little humans at home.

says. “Ryan, in particular, was an

She discovered a business model

incredibly difficult infant, and for the

on a Facebook group for doctor

moms in my practice who had kiddos

moms and used it to revamp

like that, it has meant a lot that I really

Lane Pediatrics. Now, she can cut

do get how tough that can be.”

insurance companies out of the

Noting some of her most

equation and works with less than

important victories as a pediatrician,

200 kids throughout Lee and Collier

Lane recalls helping a child with

counties. While it took years for

uncontrollable asthma manage

Lane to find the right approach

the disease enough to play sports;

for her practice, she can’t recall a

identifying a child’s attention deficit

time when she didn’t want to be a

hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

pediatrician. With a father who is a

and providing him with the help

physician and a mother who was a

he needed to excel at school; and

pediatric nurse, Lane was exposed

recognizing a new mom’s struggle

to the medical field at a young age.

with postpartum depression and

This groomed her to become the

helping her enjoy life again.

go-to babysitter for her extended

When she isn’t helping other

family, family friends and neighbors.

families, Lane is working on being

“I’d be 13 watching six kids,” she says.

present with her own. Throughout

“I always loved kids and babies, and

this past year, Lane and her kids have

I’ve always been good with them.”

bonded during daily walks, bike rides

Lane graduated from University of

and visits to the park. “I’m not sure

Miami, completed medical school

that a true balance really exists,” she

at University of South Carolina

says. “I think some days you give

and did her residency at the All

more to your family, and some days

Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg.

you give more to your job. I think

But she feels the best education was

the goal is to feel like you’re not

becoming a mom herself. “I’m able

shortchanging either.”

M I N D F U L PA R E N T I N G

35


Supermom

Keeping Your Family Safe in a Post-Pandemic World As we navigate COVID-19, Dr. Sara Lane offers tips to stay safe now, along with best practices that can keep your kiddos healthy in the future.

BE INTENTIONAL ABOUT

so they’re not spreading germs.

SETTING AN EXAMPLE

And instruct them to give friends

Lane says kids are receptive to a

space when they’re doing the same.

“this-is-what-we-do” attitude. So,

Bugs often spread when we touch

when it comes to things like wearing

contaminated surfaces and then

a mask, “how we present things as

our faces. Help your little one build

adults is a huge factor,” she says. “If

habits to avoid any face touching,

especially because COVID-19 is

they see us whining and complaining

as a rule of thumb. Continue

“transmitted almost exclusively from

and picking at our mask and taking it

to disinfect high-touch areas in

person to person, and very minimally

off and going, ‘Oh, this is so terrible’,

your home often, and remind

transmitted via surfaces.”

they’re not going to buy in.”

your children to be mindful when

KEEP WHAT WORKS

touching door knobs, faucets and

FOCUS ON THE POSITIVES

other high-contact areas in public.

Lane suggests one of the best lessons for kids this year has been

Parents find that during the pandemic, kids are getting sick less.

BUT DON’T OVERDO IT

learning to be flexible throughout

Adopting best-practices from our

According to Lane, a bit of dirt

the constant changes with virtual

COVID-19 experience can help

can’t hurt. “You don’t want to overly

learning and protocols. “My

protect your family in the future,

sanitize [your child’s] environment

children’s school music classes are

even against minor illnesses like the

because we know that a lack of

outside so they can space out and

common cold. Stress the importance

‘normal’ germ exposure may be

be a little more vocal without being

of handwashing for at least 20

related to increased sensitivities and

worried about sharing germs,” she

seconds (sing a song to make it fun

allergies,” she says. So, while Lane

says. “All of our schools and teachers

for them). Now is also a good time

condones cleaning, she says wiping

have been so awesomely creative in

to brush up on the proper way to

off groceries or leaving mail outside

figuring out new ways to do school

cough, sneeze and blow little noses,

for three days can be excessive,

and normal activities.”

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Plans to build out this neighborhood as proposed are subject to change without notice. Please see your New Home Consultant and/or home purchase agreement for actual features designated as an Everything’s Included feature. Features, amenities, floor plans, elevations, and designs vary and are subject to changes or substitution without notice. Items shown are artist’s renderings and may contain options that are not standard on all models or not included in the purchase price. Availability may vary. Sq. ft./acreage/dimensions is estimated; actual sq. ft./acreage/dimensions will differ. Garage/bay sizes may vary from home to home and may not accommodate all vehicles. Models/lifestyle photos do not reflect racial or ethnic preference. Maps are not to scale and are for relative location purposes only. Lennar does not guarantee the availability of homes within the price ranges above. Price subject to change without notice. Site plans, community maps and/ or aerial photos are conceptual in nature and are merely an artist’s rendition. They are solely for illustrative purposes, should never be relied upon, and are subject to change. This is not an offer in states where prior registration is required. Void where prohibited by law. Copyright © 2021 Lennar Corporation, Lennar, the Lennar logo, WCI, the WCI logo, Everything’s Included and the Everything’s Included logo are U.S. registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. LENNAR HOMES LLC CBC038894 and CGC1523282. LENNAR REALTY INC (CQ1013633) 02/21.

29


Book Club

Reading Rainbow Local librarians share their favorite books to feed young minds and spark imaginations. Words: Pamela Hayford

What Do You Do With

Kondo & Kezumi Visit Giant

an Idea? by Kobi Yamada,

Island by David Goodner,

Illustrated by Mae Besom

Illustrated by Andrea Tsurumi

“It is a beautifully written and

Kristy Kilfoyle, the director of

illustrated story with a simple

libraries at Canterbury School

message about nurturing one’s

in Fort Myers, serves on the

ideas with patience and perse-

selection committee for one

verance,” says Suzanne Bailey,

of the most prestigious awards

the director of media resources

in children’s literature: the John

at Community School of Naples,

Newbery Medal. She says Kondo

about The New York Times best-

& Kezumi is her favorite at the

seller. “As the idea and story start

moment. A good transitional

to unfold, so do the illustrations.”

read from picture books to chap-

The first pages are in pencil, then

ter books, the story follows the

color becomes more abundant

adventures of two island-dwell-

as things progress. $16.95;

ing creatures that discover an

Compendium, Inc.

intriguing message in a bottle: “We are not alone.” $15.99; Little, Brown and Company

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Dandy by Ame Dyckman,

It’s a Tiger! by David

Jenny’s First Catch by Susan

Illustrated by Charles Santoso

LaRochelle, Illustrated by

Levine, Illustrated by Irene Bofill

Jeremy Tankard This adorable book comes from

This is a favorite book to read

As our editors’ pick, we select this

the 2020-21 Sunshine State

aloud, says Amy-Jane McWilliam,

sweet title by Ohio-transplant Susan

Young Readers Award Jr. list

youth services coordinator for

Levine. Published in November and

for grades K-2. “I enjoy Dandy

the Lee County Library System,

illustrated by Spain-based Irene Bo-

because it’s a fun story about

which hosts bestselling authors

fill, the book deals with finding one’s

a dad really, really trying to do

at the annual Southwest Florida

unique strengths through a young

right by his daughter,” Seacrest

Reading Festival. “What starts

roseate spoonbill’s hard-learned

Country Day School librarian as-

out as a fun walk in the jungle

feeding lessons. Short sidebars

sistant Naomi Walden says. The

turns into a race to get away from

give readers insight into different

father fusses over his perfectly

an enormous tiger that seems to

birds’ lives. “I try to make everything

manicured lawn, but his daughter

be one step ahead of the reader,”

educational to make sure the kids

falls in love with a dandelion, and

she says. “There is a lot of move-

are learning even when they don’t

she’ll stop at nothing to save it.

ment and action in this book, as

think they’re learning,” Levine says.

She has a catch phrase, ‘Hi, Dad-

well as a few screams!” $16.99;

Printables and birding activities are

dy!’ “The kids really love that,”

Chronicle Books

available on Levine’s website. $19.95;

she says. $17.99; Little, Brown

Mascot Books

and Company

M I N D F U L PA R E N T I N G

39


Dad’s Corner

Calling the Shots

than it was for us in California. You run

Meet John Quinn, a Naples dad who gives back to his adopted town in varied ways.

seeing how involved people are in

into people at school, while having lunch, at parks, at events. We also like giving back to charities. There are so many family-oriented activities, and the outdoor living can’t be beat. When COVID-19 hit, we started riding bikes every morning,

Words: Randy Kambic Photography: Anna Nguyen

seven days a week, for several months. We now try for Saturday

Since relocating to Naples from

rides. It’s a great way to bond as a

Newport Beach, California, two

family. We also like to go out on the

years ago, John Quinn, with his wife

boat, but the bike riding has been

Amy, created the nonprofit Fountain

such a blessing, as we get to see our

33 Foundation, which focuses on

kids blossom in their abilities.”

mental health education, evaluation and treatment. The father of three

ON COACHING: “Sportsmanship

also instills the core values of athlet-

and teamwork are the way that the

ics to youngsters as the coach of the

world operates—it doesn’t matter

Community School of Naples (CSN)

what aspect of work you are in, these

girls’ elementary lacrosse team. We

traits make an organization successful.

recently spoke to Quinn—who is a

Playing sports is the best way for kids

real estate developer and investor by

to learn this. I think some of the best

day—about family life, coaching and

people out there who know how to

helping others.

organize, lead and manage, grew up being on teams.

ON RAISING A FAMILY IN

When I coach the girls on the

PARADISE: “We visited town for my

lacrosse team at CSN, I teach them

cousin’s wedding in 2010 and stayed

that if you’re on the sidelines, you

at the Naples Grande Beach Resort.

can’t pout, you have to cheer on your

Father of three John Quinn

We loved Naples, and it stayed in the

teammates. You want to win, but you

coaches girls’ lacrosse at

back of our minds for years. After my

also want to congratulate the oppos-

Community School of Naples,

mother passed away three years ago,

ing team, appreciate their competi-

I convinced my dad that we should

tive nature.

all move here. It couldn’t have been

As a dad, it can be challenging to

a better move for him—his grandkids

coach your child’s team. I have to

used to be 3,000 miles away; now

make sure that we’re encouraging all

they are five minutes away.

of the girls equally and that there’s no

One of the things we appreciate

favoritism. Madeleine’s another player

about living in Naples is that seeing

on the team, who happens to be my

people socially is so much easier

daughter. It’s a balancing act.”

40

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ON GIVING BACK: “My wife is a marriage and family therapist and working to complete her Ph.D. in mental health, so this is an issue that’s close to our hearts. In addition to supporting Lee Health Foundation’s Kids’ Minds Matter, we launched Fountain 33 Foundation. There’s a major mental health crisis out there for all ages, but it particularly impacts children. And, it covers all socioeconomic backgrounds—mental illness doesn’t discriminate. We want to move the needle so all children have access to help themselves mentally. We’re interested in developing a mental health clinic for the county to provide additional resources for children, and we’re partnering with CSN to help launch a comprehensive mental health program for the school, including a new position that will roll out a social emotional learning program for the Lower School (pre-K through 5th grade) in the 2021-2022 academic year. In 2019, we made a donation to the school to help them complete their Fountain 33 Institute for Science ON FATHERHOOD: “I love seeing

involved in our kids’ lives. Even though

and Environmental Research building,

the aha moments, when they (Austin,

they’re home more, they’re also more

where there are science classrooms,

3, Genevieve, 6, and Madeleine, 8)

alone in some ways, since they aren’t

offices for guidance counselors and

have an epiphany, and realize how

doing their regular school routines or

environmental research, as well as

to connect the dots. It could be

interacting with other students. We

other tools.

anything—taking the dog outside,

make sure to talk to our kids daily—

Education and mental health are

putting together a puzzle—it’s

ask how they’re feeling, what they’re

core issues for us. Impacting kids at a

rewarding to see how they come up

concerned about and let them know

young age and helping parents know

with their own approach and seeing

they have a reassuring shoulder. You’re

how to better handle these issues is an

that self-discovery play out.

a disciplinarian, but you’re also their

ambitious goal. But if you get a hold

cheerleader, there to help them navi-

of this early on, you can change the

gate their feelings and challenges.”

trajectory of a child’s life.”

During the pandemic, I’ve found it’s even more important to be actively

M I N D F U L PA R E N T I N G

41


Movement

Going With the Flow Taking the time to relax, breathe and stretch has many benefits for children.

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Child’s pose, or balasana, is a

you are practicing kids’ yoga. “We

resting posture in yoga that involves

use our imaginations,” says Colleen

several steps to achieve proper

Weiglein of Fusion Yoga & Wellness

body position. Once learned, it’s

in Estero, explaining that in child’s

the perfect pose for reconnecting

pose she instructs her students to

to your breath. Getting into it the

pretend they are polar bear cubs,

first time can be challenging, unless

scooping snow over their little noses

g ulf shorelife.com

Getty

Words: Anne Reed


& NATURE PARK

Crave adventure and comfort food? Adore bargains and cute critters? How about catching a show? The Shell Factory & Nature Park is the place for you! We’ve got tons of fun happening every day of the week all year long. You’re gonna love it as much as I do! Check out our Facebook page and website for upcoming events and info 16554 N. Cleveland Ave. (US 41), N. Fort Myers, FL 33903 • (239) 995-2141 • shellfactory.com

Nature Park


Movement

with their paws as they settle into

calm and relaxed she felt afterward.

position and focus on their breath.

“I knew that if I felt the difference,

“They start to learn that when they

one tiny person in this one little

breathe, they can calm themselves

class, I kept thinking what it could do

down,” she says. To teach kids the

for children,” she says. She started

process of using their breath, she

a before-school yoga class after

has them reach their arms up and

writing a grant for yoga mats, and

pull down a cloud, then smell it, and

the program took off from there.

Breathing is also a key part of Julie

As a district school counselor and author, Frizzi integrates breathing

Frizzi’s yoga classes with students

and stretching into her lessons. “The

in Collier County Public Schools.

big buzz word is self-regulation,” she

She began practicing yoga 15 years

explains. “Regulating those strong

ago after taking a class with other

emotions, being able to tap into that

teachers, and was surprised by how

internal state and recognize how you

Getty

blow the cloud away.


are feeling.” When students use their

Sanctuary in Port Charlotte, had to

and teach their parents. For pre-K,

breath, Frizzi notes that it helps calm

pause kid’s classes over pandemic

she recommends starting with 10

fear and anxiety by balancing the

concerns, and other studios in the

minutes, focusing on movement,

parasympathetic and sympathetic

area closed their doors for good,

stretching and breathing. With

nervous systems. Other benefits

virtual yoga has become a more

her 6-year-old son, they wake up,

include self-awareness and social

important tool for relieving stress

stretch, sing a morning song, then

awareness, topics Frizzi explores

and anxiety.

sit and practice meditation for one

with her students and through her

Salima Silverman, yoga instructor

minute. Keeping it short and simple,

Powerful You website, books and

and mother from East Naples,

eventually blossoms into a longer

YouTube videos.

notes that now is the perfect

practice. “A lot of kids in pre-K like

time to start practicing yoga as a

to mimic, so if they see mom and

part of students and teachers

family, no matter your children’s

dad doing it, they want to do it too,”

continuing their yoga practice when

ages. She encourages her older

she says. “To create the space, any

schools moved to virtual learning

students to become their own yoga

time of the day, for parent and child

last March. As studios, like The Yoga

teachers so they can go home

to practice, is so wonderful.”

The videos became an essential

i n n o vat i v e

d e s i g n

,

i m p e c c a b l e

c r a f t s m a n s h i p

a n d

f l aw l e s s

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Childhood is Short, Art is Long

HARMON-MEEK GALLERY Established in Naples, Florida in 1964

Art patrons of all ages are welcome at Harmon-Meek Gallery. As a small family-owned fine art gallery, we have been operating in Naples for 57 years. We have a long history of working with museums across the nation with both loaned exhibitions and acquisitions. Locally, William Meek helped establish permanent collections of Fine Art for what is now the Baker Museum and the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples. Engaging children in art remains a primary commitment of our Gallery with a dedicated donor-advised fund for children’s art programs.

382 Twelfth Avenue South, Naples, Florida 34102 www.harmonmeek.com | 239.261.2637 “6 Bunnies” by Hunt Slonem, oil on wood, 22”32”, 2020 “Siblings II” by Herman Maril (1908-86 ) oil on canvas, 28”x32”, 1958

One Church. Every Generation.

Children & Students Center construction is underway, opening December 2021!

We cultivate a warm sense of community for both kids and adults among our loving Covenant family.

Middle School and High School Sundays at 10AM

C H U R C H o f N A P L E S | P CA

Midweek Small Groups Wednesdays 6-8 PM

Provides a loving environment for children, while offering mothers and fathers a needed break. For information contact momsmorningout@covenantnaples.com

6926 Trail Blvd. Naples, FL 34108 | 239.597.3464 For more info email: sherry.kendrick@covenantnaples.com Join us for church on Sundays! covenantnaples.com


F EATURES Stylish moms who parent with purpose, Bleu Provence’s chef shares a recipe she makes with her grandkids and a pro player family centered on giving.


Moms Know Best Stylish local moms share how they cultivate their children’s love for nature, creativity and community.

Photography by Rochelle Shucart Styled by Carla Delgado Grippa

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The Gerry Family

Ashley Gerry and her two children, Aniston, 9, and Parker, 6, love the active lifestyle Southwest Florida allows them. Having grown up playing volleyball, Ashley now coaches her daughter’s team in between shuttling the kids to tennis, football or rehearsals at Naples Performing Arts Center. On days off, they may stroll the Third Street Farmers’ Market, play at Baker Park with their Tibetan terrier or go to Cone 06 Pottery Painting Studio. When her stepkids are in town, the group ranges in ages from 6 to 18. Then, Celebration Park allows them plenty of space to spread out and select from the various food trucks. The Gerrys raise their children to care for others. In addition to supporting JDRF, Kids’ Minds Matter and Golisano Children’s Museum, the family sponsors a child from Tanzania through The Foundation For Tomorrow. “The kids and Jazmine can write back and forth, which gives them a personal connection from opposite sides of the world,” Ashley says.

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The Botsford-Sablan Family

WINK News morning anchor Lindsay Sablan keeps unconventional hours with her 2 a.m. wake-up calls, but her schedule allows her precious after-school time with 3-year-old Cache and 5-year-old Harper. “While I miss breakfast, I get to do dinner, bath, bedtime story and prayer, and we do that every night,” she says. When dad, Florida Gulf Coast University’s women’s volleyball head coach Matthew Botsford, is traveling for games, Lindsay likes to take the kids to Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples. “As a parent, you spend so much time telling your kids, ‘No, don’t touch that,’” she says. “And you don’t have to use the word ‘no’ there—everything is meant to be touched.” When the family is all together, they may go hiking at CREW Cypress Dome Trails. “It has lots of short trails that are manageable for kids, and they always see birds, horses or even bobcat tracks,” she says.

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The Pavich Family

For Estero-based advanced practice nurse practitioner and nurse anesthetist Jennifer Pavich, the things she likes to do with her children—Jacob, 6, Juliana, 8, and Joey, 10—are many of the same things she loved doing as a kid growing up in Fort Myers. “I like to introduce them to the things I did,” she says. That includes paddleboarding on the Estero River, hiking at Six Mile Cypress Lake Slough Preserve and rollerskating at Spinz. Boating is a big one, too. “It’s seriously how we got through the pandemic,” Jennifer says. She points to Flippers on the Bay, in Fort Myers Beach, as a favorite restaurant to pull up and enjoy the sunset view. The Pavichs have a big heart for the community, and as the kids get older, they’re joining their parents in supporting the Community Cooperative’s soup kitchen, SWFL Children’s Charities and Captains for Clean Water.

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The Juliano-Luckman Family

Lisa Juliano, the director of events and communications for the Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF), takes advantage of the city’s many family-friendly offerings with her daughter, 6-year-old Madison Luckman. “We try to switch it up,” Lisa says. One weekend, they may be strolling through the Naples Botanical Garden or Naples Zoo; the next they may be going to Vanderbilt Beach or a local park. “She loves going to The Continental, too,” Lisa says, of one of Madison’s favorite Naples restaurants. “Feeding the fish there is her favorite activity.”

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Get the Look ASHLEY GER RY WEARS ... the Etro Panarea Jacquard Satin Jacket and Jacquard Satin Pants. LINDSAY SABLAN WEARS ... the Fabiana Filippi Pleated Chiffon & Satin Midi Skirt and Linen-Blend Off-TheShoulder Sequin Sweater. JENNIFER PAVICH WEARS ... the Nanushka Ayse Poplin Twist Midi Shirtdress. LISA JULIANO WEARS ... the SPORTMAX Colourblock dress from MaxMara at Waterside Shops in Naples.

All (except Juliano’s wardrobe) from Saks Fifth Avenue at Waterside Shops in Naples. The children are all dressed by Lu Lu Belle of Naples in Mercato. Hair and makeup by Sara Eubanks at Unbreakable Beauty. Ashley Gerry’s hair and makeup was done by David Frohmberg at Salon Tease in Naples.

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The Family Kitchen Bleu Provence’s chef Lysielle Cariot shares a recipe for classic French crêpes Suzette that is perfect for little helping hands. Words: Chelle Koster Walton Photography: Kelly Jones

Lysielle Cariot grew up in France, so it’s only fitting that when she brings her American granddaughters, 8-year-old Lili and 12-year-old Emilia, into the kitchen, they make a treat she loved as a child: crêpes Suzettes. “My best memories are making crêpes at La Chandeleur 40 days after Christmas with my mother and grandmother,” says Cariot, who runs Naples’ Bleu Provence with her husband Jacques. “It’s a French tradition.” The tradition, also known as Candlemas and Le Jour des Crêpes, dictates that you light a candle while making the crêpes and manage to flip

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Lysielle and Jacques Cariot like to make crêpes with granddaughters, Emilia (lef t) and Lili (right). “They love to try to flip the crêpe—and they really love to eat them,” says Lysielle.

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One of the best-known presentations is the crêpes Suzette, made with an orange-based filling. But the recipe is highly customizable, so you can make them sweet or savory depending on your kiddos’ tastes.

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Lysielle used to make the dish with her own grandmother during the French holiday of La Chandeleur. For prosperity, tradition holds that you flip the thin pancake with one hand while holding a gold coin in the other.

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the thin pancake and catch it in the pan with one hand, while holding a gold coin in the other. “It is supposed to give you good luck for the rest of the year,” Cariot says. “Making crêpes with the girls is fun and they often invite friends. It’s an activity adapted for young children. They love to try to flip the crêpe—and they really love to eat them.” From the Brittany region of France, crêpes lend themselves to sweet and savory preparations, with any number of fillings from chocolate with hazelnuts to sautéed butternut squash and onions. The most famous presentation is crêpe Suzette, and here Cariot shares her recipe with your family for sweet bonding moments.

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Emilia and Lili will of ten invite friends over to make crêpes with them and their grandmother.

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Crêpes Suzette Servings: 8

For the filling:

griddle, using approximately 1/4 cup

Preparation time: 15 minutes for

6 tablespoons butter

for each crêpe. Tilt the pan with a

crêpes; 10 minutes for filling; 1-2

¼ cup sugar

circular motion so that the batter

minutes to assemble

1 tablespoon orange zest, finely

coats the surface evenly. Cook the

grated

crêpe for about 2 minutes, until the

1/3 cup fresh orange juice

bottom is light brown. Loosen with

NOTE: The chef recommends leaving the crêpe batter to rest, covered, for one hour.

a spatula, turn and cook the other To make the crêpes: In a large

side. Serve hot.

mixing bowl, whisk together flour For the crêpes:

and eggs. Gradually add in the milk,

To prepare filling: In a mini food

1 cup all-purpose flour

stirring to combine. Add salt and

processor, blend butter, sugar and

4 eggs

butter; beat until smooth.

zest. With the machine on,

1 1/2 cups milk

Heat a lightly oiled griddle or

add orange juice, gradually, until

1 pinch salt

frying pan over medium-high heat.

incorporated. Add filling to crêpes

2 1/2 tablespoons butter, melted

Pour or scoop the batter onto the

and roll or fold into quarters.

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After living around the country during Chris’ MLB career, the Resops returned to their native Naples, where they raise their kids, Kenna and Colton, with values of empathy and service.

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Pitching In

Former professional baseball player Chris Resop and his wife, Kara, go all in to support their community. Words: Brendan Meyer Photography: Kelly Jones

There is little evidence inside Chris

spent that year giving back. He

Resop’s Naples home of his 14-year

scheduled countless trips to local

professional baseball career. There’s

hospitals in Pittsburgh to spend time

no dedicated man cave or walls lined

with sick children, gifting tickets,

with memorabilia and trophies. In

stuffed animals, T-shirts and often the

fact, all of the former player’s jerseys

very jersey off his back. He did the

from when he pitched for the Florida

same thing for every team he pitched

Marlins, Los Angeles Angels, Atlanta

for during his MLB career. And that’s

Braves, Pittsburgh Pirates and Oak-

why, of all the tokens that the Barron

land Athletics are hanging in a closet.

Collier High School graduate could

But there is one award that’s dis-

decorate his home with, it’s this award

creetly on display. It’s a thick, glass

that he chooses to display. “Playing

rectangular etching that sits atop a

Major League Baseball doesn’t make

heavy black base, carved with his

me who I am,” 38-year-old Chris says.

name alongside another baseball lu-

“That was just my job and career for

minary, an honor that Chris calls “One

14 years. But the Roberto Clemente

of my greatest accomplishments.”

Award—that’s of far more meaning to

It’s called the Roberto Clemente

who I am.” The award sits in his office,

Award. Each year, a panel of baseball

where Chris does the bulk of his work

dignitaries selects a nominee from

with his residential real estate agency,

every Major League Baseball (MLB)

The Resop Team, a trade he transi-

team to receive the prestigious hon-

tioned into less than one month after

or, which is given to the person who

he retired from baseball in 2014.

best exemplifies community involve-

Selling homes wasn’t that much

ment and sportsmanship, just like

of a foreign concept for him. After

Clemente who was a Hall of Famer

signing with the Marlins out of high

beloved for his charitable efforts.

school, he spent the bulk of his Ma-

In 2012, Chris earned the award

jor League career as a journeyman

from the Pirates because he had

reliever, pitching for five MLB teams,

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a handful of minor league clubs and

both are students at Community

a two-year stint playing pro base-

School of Naples.

ball in Japan. That meant changing homes—a lot.

Soon, The Resop Team found themselves in bidding wars and work-

His wife, Kara, whom he met in

ing around the clock. By December,

high school and then dated after be-

their agency closed out the year with

ing drafted by the Marlins, had a real

roughly $125 million in sales—and it

estate license. Whenever the family

hasn’t let up so far in 2021. “We typ-

had to uproot themselves because

ically carry seven months of invento-

of an unexpected trade or any other

ry,” Kara says. “Right now, we have

transaction, it was Kara, with Chris’

less than one month.”

help, who navigated their next spot.

But while the real estate industry

Practicing real estate in his home-

was booming, in part because of

town of Naples seemed like the

the pandemic, the Resops knew that

perfect next step. In late 2019, Kara

many other industries and families

joined the agency, just in time for the

were suffering. They were particular-

unexpected boom in the market as

ly concerned for the migrant workers

a result of the COVID-19 pandem-

who live in Immokalee. “It’s the back-

ic. “And that boom has been crazy,”

bone of our community,” Chris says.

Chris says.

“They work incredibly hard, some 10

Here’s a glimpse. As business

to 14 hours in the field, every day.

surged in mid-2020, Kara worked

They don’t have benefits, and they’re

out of their kids’ playroom while her

barely living paycheck to paycheck.”

husband set up shop outside on the

Privately, the Resops have given

family’s lanai. That’s because their

back to the Immokalee communi-

8-year-old daughter Kenna, who

ty for years. In 2017, after Hurricane

plays lacrosse and violin, occupied

Irma, the couple made their giving

the kitchen bar area, while their

public and organized a social media

11-year-old son, Colton, a baseball

campaign that spurred a cavalry of

player who also plays piano and bass,

donations, with more than 50 cars

took over the family’s home office—

dropping off food, water, toiletries

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In the past year, the Resops have collected food, clothing and toiletries for locals in Immokalee and helped families in need pay their rents. Colton and Kenna help build care packages, unload trucks and deliver supplies.

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With the help of friends and the Redlands Christian Migrant Association, the Resops covered rent and utilities for 25 families during the pandemic.

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and more to Immokalee. And it wasn’t

The whole Resop family, along with

just the parents. “We put our kids to

their close friends and current Boston

work, too,” Chris says, which meant

Red Sox pitcher Chris Sale and his

Colton and Kenna were helping to

wife Brianne, worked with the Red-

organize care packages, load and un-

lands Christian Migrant Association

load trailers and deliver supplies.

(RCMA) to coordinate which families

Last year, after reading a story in

would receive the financial support

the Naples Daily News about an Im-

and donations. And after a success-

mokalee woman who was struggling

ful first round that supported eight

to pay her rent during the pandem-

families, the Resops and Sales did it

ic, the Resops agreed to do it again.

again. Over the holidays, the families

Chris posted a message on his Face-

donated toys for 550 children. They

book page asking if anyone wanted

estimate that they raised well over

to participate in the donation cam-

$50,000, and covered rent and utili-

paign. And just like in 2017, there was

ties for 25 families—a symbol, just like

overwhelming support.

Chris’ Roberto Clemente Award—of

The Resops received checks, mo-

the couples’ commitment to give

bile donations via Venmo and cash.

back. “But there’s still so much left to

People dropped off food, clothing

do,” Kara says. “I feel like we owe it

and toiletries at their doorstep. One

to them to provide support and be an

day, Chris got a random call from a

advocate whenever we can. “And it

couple he’d never met, asking him to

feels so good knowing other people

meet at Publix. They had recently re-

feel the same way. Chris and I want

ceived a $2,000 tax refund from the

to be community leaders, and if any-

government, and instead of pocket-

thing, inspire others to do their part.

ing it, they bought 20 $100 Publix gift

No amount of support is too small.

cards and handed them to Chris.

Everything adds up in the end.”


S U B S C R I B E T O Y O U R M O N T H LY G U I D E T O P A R E N T I N G I N P A R A D I S E GULFSHORELIFE.COM/MINI


FA MILY TI ME Things to do and places to go to reconnect, unwind and feed young explorers’ sense of adventure.


Brian Tietz; Courtesy The Pier

Little Bites

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g ulf shorelife.com


Where the Wild Things Dine These restaurants check all the boxes: dedicated kids’ menus, entertainment, great food for grown-ups, outdoor seating and other nods that appeal to little ones.

400 RABBITS, SANIBEL ISLAND We vote the kids’ menu at this new Mexican-inspired spot the most chuckle-worthy, with made-to-order meals like “I Don’t Care” (hot dog), “Whatever!!!” (chicken tenders) and “I’m Bored” (quesadilla). All come with a choco-taco dessert, a color-me menu with crayons and a transfer tattoo of the rabbit logo. 400rabbitssanibel.com THE PIER, PUNTA GORDA

Words: Chelle Koster Walton

The Pier at Fishermen’s Village takes its name from the wooden dock that edges its stretch of outdoor seating and ends

LAKE PARK DINER, NAPLES

at a small sand beach. Tiki lamps set

This diner has a cool garden vibe and

the mood and hint at the Pacific lean

a menu of old-school favorites mod-

to the sushi and other Asian dishes on

ernized with creativity and recipes for

the menu. The kids’ menu appeals to

good health. The shakes by themselves

adventurous palates with sushi rolls, a

are enough motivation to get the family

chicken poke bowl and tempura-style

there. (Try the Cereal Super Shake with

fish sticks—in addition to classic kids’

Froot Loops, topped with a glazed do-

fare, of course. thepierpg.com

nut, or the Nutella Super Shake, which comes with a slice of chocolate cake.) Kids can order smaller portions of specialties like the organic rotisserie chicken off the children’s menu, or choose off the regular menu, which includes infused flavors at the lemonade bar and healthy side dishes. You can enjoy it all alfresco, or in the recently added interior space. thelakeparkdiner.com

While Lake Park Diner lures the kids with its over-the-top shakes (lef t), The Pier is perfect for its waterfront locale and ample desert menu.

F A M I LY T I M E

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Oceanfront views pair with tasty seafood dishes, like the blackened mahi-mahi tacos, at Quinn’s on the Beach.

QUINN’S ON THE BEACH,

BARBATELLA, NAPLES

MARCO ISLAND

Barbatella’s divided layout works per-

Expect warm Gulf breezes at this JW

fectly for both a date night and family

Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort

time. Families are happiest in the paved

restaurant, where dinner comes with

courtyard, throwing coins in the fountain

a fire-dancing performance at sunset.

and sneaking into the pizza kitchen to

Other times, live musicians contribute

see if they can convince Italian-born

to the air of festivity. Besides the Kids’

chef Luigi to let them make their own

Classics, with items such as burgers

pie. (Which he may oblige if it’s not too

and chicken tenders, dinner brings

busy.) Then, it’s onto some homemade

such palate-expanding selections as

chocolate brownie gelato. Crayons and

mahi-mahi tacos, grilled baby chur-

coloring pages on the back of the menu

rasco and grouper filet with rice and

keep the kiddos busy while they wait for

pigeon peas. Gluten-free offerings are

their meals. barbatellanaples.com

also available. marriott.com

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Courtesy JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort

Little Bites


Life’s Short, Eat Dessert First!

Follow Us: mmscafe royalscoopberkshire royalscoopberkshire mmscafe

Royal Scoop at Berkshire Commons

M & M’s Cafe at Tin City

(239) 231-4544 www.royalscoop.com

(239) 261-5317 www.cafemnm.com

7335 Radio Rd., Suite 104, Naples, FL 34104

1200 5th Ave S., Suite 122, Naples, FL 34102

Education You Can Believe In Saint Francis Xavier Catholic School welcomes you to join our family, our tradition and our journey with Christ! • We are a Blue Ribbon School, accredited by the Florida Catholic Conference. • Established more than 80 years ago, Saint Francis Xavier Catholic School has provided more than 7,000 students with an exemplary academic education built upon a Catholic foundation of spirituality and compassionate humanity. • St. Francis Xavier Catholic School students outscore their public school counterparts in achievement tests. • State-of-the-art computer lab, 21st Century classrooms and Middle School 1:1 iPad Program

Call today to learn more about our curriculum, activities and faith formation. FINANCIAL AID SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE www.stfrancisfortmyers.org 2055 Heitman St. Fort Myers, FL 33901

(239) 334-7707


On the Road

Paradise Found Hit the highway for one of these scenic trips you can get to in less than four hours.

Words: Lane Nieset

CHEECA LODGE, ISLAMORADA

offer a castaway, private island feel,

For a drive that comes with guaranteed

sitting along their own secluded stretch

views, type Key Largo into your GPS and

of sand. Low-key, white-glove service

start heading south toward Islamorada,

comes into play in the form of swanky

the “Sportfishing Capital of the World”

soaking tubs and butler service. While

and home to the historic, 214-room

parents lounge on the wraparound

Cheeca Lodge & Spa. A $3 million reno-

porch, tykes can play on the sprawling

vation added a new oceanfront pool, Tiki

lawn out front or paddle around the

Bar and 10 one- and two-bedroom villas

coast by kayak. Plan to spend a morning

last year. The Casitas at Cheeca Lodge

snorkeling over the shallow reefs and shipwrecks, where you’re sure to spot nurse sharks and angelfish, or sneak offsite to the nearby Theater of the Sea to swim with dolphins, sea lions and sting rays in the park’s natural saltwater lagoons. Look out for Camp Cheeca, which has been on pause during the pandemic, to restart with scavenger hunts, fishing, crafts and other activities to keep littles ones entertained. From

Courtesy Cheeca Lodge & Spa (2)

$684 per night; cheeca.com

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Af ter a $3 million renovation last year, Cheeca Lodge now has 10 private villas that offer a castaway feel for families.

F A M I LY T I M E

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On the Road

The chic Acqualina in Sunny Isles stands apart from the Miami Beach bustle, and has a marine biology camp for kids.

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g ulf shorelife.com


ACQUALINA RESORT, MIAMI

There’s no lack of space to spread

Located in Sunny Isles, a residential

out at the resort. Extended families or

stretch on the northern end of Miami

groups traveling together can opt for a

Beach, this family-owned resort spans

luxe, two- or three-bedroom oceanfront

across 4.5 beachfront acres that feels

suite with balcony views over Miami’s

worlds away from South Beach’s hustle

skyline, plus full kitchens and entertain-

and bustle. While kids are at the com-

ing space for everyone to gather over

plimentary marine biology camp, adults

meals or movies. Once a month, the

can treat themselves to a spa escape

hotel hosts story hour, but you can read

at the 20,000-square-foot, two-story

bedtime stories each evening by select-

Acqualina Spa by ESPA, overlooking

ing from one of the bestselling children’s

the Atlantic. Another option: slip away

books that are part of the Bedside

for lunch at New York-transplant Italian

Reading program. From $800 per night;

Il Mulino or the new Japanese fusion

acqualinaresort.com

Ke-uH. Beachfront Costa Grill is stocked with classic kids meals (cheese pizza,

FOUR SEASONS RESORT ORLANDO

PB & Js, hamburgers and hotdogs), but

AT WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT

another fave is the lobby AQ Gelato &

Orlando’s theme parks have reopened

Coffee market, serving up gelato and

with updated COVID-19 safety mea-

homemade chocolate cookies.

sures, like mandatory face coverings, limited-capacity seating on rides and socially distanced queue for lines. Less

Courtesy Acqualina Resort (2)

than three hours from Southwest Florida, at the 26-acre Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, kids can start their weekend with Belgian waffles or buttermilk pancakes in the company of Goofy and friends during the Saturday breakfasts at the on-site Ravello restaurant. There are also five other restaurants, including a rooftop lounge and lakeside eatery; a Tom Fazio-designed golf course; tennis courts; a complimentary,

F A M I LY T I M E

77


On the Road

daily kids’ club for children ages 4 to 12;

desks with round tables, so families who

and a large water park featuring water

choose can dine-in comfortably. From

slides, a splash zone and a winding lazy

$850 per night; fourseasons.com

river. The water park doubles as a recess center for kids participating in “school-

THE GASPARILLA INN & CLUB,

cations”—small-group, supervised

BOCA GRANDE

schoolwork and study sessions dedicat-

While technically located within the

ed to helping with virtual learning, while

boundaries of Southwest Florida, The

parents can take a break lounging under

Gasparilla Inn can feel like a jaunt, espe-

a cabana by the adult-only pool.

cially from Naples. But in less than two

Guests get special access to FastPass+

A complimentary daily kids’ club, theme park perks and breakfast with Disney characters are just some of the benefits attached to this hotel stay.

hours, you’ll arrive at this barrier island

perks and extended Magic Hours with

resort that was originally constructed in

their stay. Book one of the Park View

the early 1900s. The newer, pet-friendly

rooms, where you can pour a glass of vino from the new, built-in Plum wine machines and watch the sunset over all four parks. The recently revamped rooms switched out benches for

Courtesy Four Seasons Orlando (2)

kid-friendly ottomans and replaced work

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18 & UND

$1

ER

9

LUNCH & SHOW!

FEB 18 – APR 10

APR 15 – MAY 22

APR 23 – MAY 21 SELECT MATINEES

18 & UNDER

18 & UNDER

DINNER & SHOW!

LUNCH & SHOW!

$ 20

MAY 27 – JUN 26

JUL 1 – AUG 14

$ 19

JUL 9 – AUG 13 SELECT MATINEES

1380 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers • 239.278.4422 • BroadwayPalm.com

Experience the Sharp Houses—three- and four-bedroom homes with kitchens—can be your base for the week, an easy meeting point between dips in one

• INTERACTIVE BIRTHDAY PARTIES • IMMERSIVE SUMMER CAMPS

the three pools at the recently renovated Beach Club or after a round of golf at the championship course. Explore the island during a half-day scavenger hunt, where kids don pirate gear and build sandcastles, search for shells and spot wildlife. The winner gets a prize, but here, all kids leave with a stuffed animal gift. From $425 per night; the-gasparilla-inn.com

EDUCATIONAL FUN AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.WONDERGARDENS.ORG CALL US AT 239-992-2591 OR STOP BY TODAY: 27180 OLD 41 RD. BONITA SPRINGS FLORIDA 34135 Open 7 Days 10am - 4pm


On the Road

FUN FAMILY DINING WITH A HEALTHY, MODERN TWIST.

Even Closer Get away from it all, without leaving town, at South Seas Island Resort in Captiva.

Cross the Sanibel Causeway, and you’ll feel your body start to relax as you approach South Seas. The former key lime plantation sits within a 330-acre wildlife preserve and features a number of accommodations catering to families of all sizes, NAPLES: 944 7th Avenue North Ph: 239-228-6351 Save time, order ahead online: TheLakeParkDiner.com

CASUAL INDOOR / OUTDOOR DINING • FAMILY MEALS TO-GO

whether you prefer a room in the harborside hotel, where manatees and dolphins greet early risers, or a beachfront villa perched along the 2.5-mile stretch of sugary sand. From $599 per night; southseas.com

g ulf shorelife.com


Brian Tietz

SWFL Explorer

The Great Outdoors Boost their appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us at these attractions.

lead into the Gordon River Greenway

Young explorers

corridor, where visitors often spot

love the playground

wildlife. There’s also a kayak launch and shaded picnic areas where kids

and 34-foot viewing hill at Baker Park.

can refuel before dashing back out to the modern playground and splash pad. The centerpiece of the park is

Words: Tess Raines

the 34-foot viewing hill, where they can roll down or watch the sunset. naplesgov.com

BAKER PARK, NAPLES A newcomer for the region, the 15-

BAILEY-MATTHEWS NATIONAL

acre Baker Park has space for kids to

SHELL MUSEUM, SANIBEL

stroll, bike or skate along the miles

Thousands of shells wash up on

of paved pathways. Boardwalks and

our shores each day, so it’s fitting

trails run along the Gordon River and

that Sanibel Island is the home of

F A M I LY T I M E

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SWFL Explorer

The Edison & Ford Winter Estates (right), Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens (center) and Everglades Wonder Gardens (bottom) give kids room to roam.

the only accredited museum in

studies early with the hour-long,

the nation devoted to them. Last

Emerging Inventors (ages 18 months

year’s multimillion dollar expansion

to 5 years) sessions held outdoors

showcases one of the world’s largest

four days a month through April, with

collections of shells with more than

activities like listening to Edison’s

30 exhibits and record-breaking

phonograph, learning how plants

conches. Don’t miss watching the

grow and how to generate electricity

staff feed the red giant Pacific

using materials like conductive clay.

octopus in one of the 11 aquariums

edisonfordwinterestates.org

on-site. shellmuseum.org

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EDISON & FORD WINTER

GARDENS, BONITA SPRINGS

ESTATES, FORT MYERS

Another location aimed at inspiring

At Thomas Edison’s and Henry Ford’s

STEAM, this zoological park offers

winter homes and laboratories,

interactive encounters with wildlife.

little scientists ages 5-12 can use an

Buy a cup of food at the ticket

app to take part in scavenger hunts

counter to hand-feed the flamingos,

that teach about the plants and

or toss some nuggets to the

trees Edison used in his research as

alligators. Kids 5 and older love when

they explore the 20-acre property.

colorful Australian lorikeets land

Smaller kids can further start their

on their heads and arms during the

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy Edison & Ford Winter Estates; Getty; Naples Zoo

EVERGLADES WONDER


private Lorikeet Encounter, and there’s a

capping the journey with a gentle water

new exhibit that brings guests up close

landing. saltislandseaplanes.com

and personal with bigger parrots, too. As you meander through the tropical

NAPLES ZOO AT CARIBBEAN

gardens and past the reptile enclosures,

GARDENS, NAPLES

watch for peacocks strutting across the

As one of the longest-running attractions

property. wondergardens.org

in the area, the Naples Zoo continues to enchant generations of visitors with its

SALT ISLAND SEAPLANES, NAPLES

48-acre collection of animals. Winding

For a high-up view of our waterways

through the trees leads to a visit with

and mangrove-filled islands book a seat

lions, a tiger and a bear—as well as

on Salt Island Seaplanes’ Cessna 206

Athena, a rescued Florida panther. A

amphibious seaplane between October

boat ride on Lake Victoria provides a

and April. The captain can land at your

scenic view of the primates’ islands,

dock and escort you over Southwest

and there are several opportunities for

Florida and to the Ten Thousand Islands,

close encounters, including feeding the

N a p l e s P r e m i u m To y S t o r e 650 Goodlette Rd. Naples, Phone: 239-263-6101


SWFL Explorer

Go for the close wildlife encounters at Shy Wolf Sanctuary (lef t) and J.N. “Ding” Darling (right).


giraffes. After the trip, kids can visit the zoo’s website for coloring pages and educational behind-the-scenes video tours to learn more about their favorite furry, scaly or feathered zoo resident. napleszoo.org SHY WOLF SANCTUARY EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE CENTER, NAPLES Teach kids to revere, not fear, wild

THE

BEST

OF THE GULFSHORE 2021

animals from a young age at this sanctuary that rehabilitates and houses more than 60 wolves, cougars and foxes. During a reservation-only visit, adults and children 7 and older are led in a

Offering care to children 1 year of age through VPK We are a ministry of the Naples Church of Christ

small group through a two-hour tour, where they can pet and interact with several of the wolves, and might even witness the creatures howling in unison. shywolfsanctuary.org J.N. “DING” DARLING NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE, SANIBEL The park’s eight miles of trails often offer sightings of roseate spoonbills, snakes and gators. On the Scat

Erik Kellar; Courtesy J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge

Trail along the Wildlife Education Boardwalk, 12 panels replicate remnants for kids to guess which animal the pile belongs to and boost their ecology IQ along the way. Before visiting the park, print the conservation themed coloring pages, plant identification notes and Wilderness Explorer booklet available on the site, so kids can document what they see and hear on the trails and get prompts for questions for the rangers. fws.gov

LAKES PARK

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a

(239) 418-1444 www.wheresmilesbegin.com


SWFL Explorer

Find life-size sculptures nestled into the blooming greenspaces at Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Gardens in Punta Gorda.

PEACE RIVER BOTANICAL AND

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SCULPTURE GARDENS, PUNTA GORDA Encompassing nearly 30 acres, Peace River Botanical and Sculpture Gardens offers visitors a serene escape into untouched marshlands, uplands and mangroves. Children joining the Nature Explorers program receive a backpack with handheld microscopes, bug catchers and other

3200 Tamiami Trail North, Suite 200 Naples, FL 34103

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(239) 394-5161

as they explore the gardens with flowering trees and plants. Lifesize sculptures by world-renowned artists add whimsy to the grounds. Follow a boardwalk out to a gazebo overlooking the Peace River, and

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy Pure Florida

Put ting Your Fa mily 's Needs Fir st for 50 Ye a r s

tools designed to incite curiosity


stop by the koi pond to let little ones watch the fish flit around. peacerivergardens.org LOVERS KEY STATE PARK, FORT MYERS BEACH After years of efforts from the Friends of Lovers Key group, this 712-acre barrier island park debuts a new Welcome and Discovery Center this spring. It’s a wonderland for kids, with its observation deck, touch tanks and exhibits. The rest of the activities—five miles of hiking and biking trails (including the 2.5 mile Black Island trail with

A new-age, highly engaging approach to babysitting.

strategically located cutoffs to shorten the trip if littles ones get tired), ranger tours, beachside picnic tables and mangrove estuary with manatee and bald eagle sightings—are as spectacular as ever. floridastateparks.org

(239) 682-0246 NaplesBabysittingCompany.com


Editors’ Pick

The Perfect Summer Look For 39 years, Nanny’s of Sanibel has delivered on playful and classic kids’ clothing. Owner Megan Shores keeps Craig Hildebrand

the shop stocked with pieces that are comfortable for tykes and not easily found elsewhere. Recently, she started stocking Baliene, a linen line from Spain that we’re loving for its assortment of billowy staples, like softly hued ruffled dresses, shirts and trousers that are, to every parent’s relief, also easy to clean. (239) 395-1730

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NO _ 5 0 6

0 4 _ 2 0 21

Courtesy Carrie Brigham Design/Blaine Johnathan Photography

HOME

p _ 214

214

St ylish Living: Monochrome Beaut y

224

Fa vorite T hings: Wildlife-Inspired Objects

234

Realt y Check: Dream Homes


STYLISH LIVING

BL ACK-AND-WHITE

HOME

This waterfront home in Naples’ Moorings area has a simple color scheme that makes it welcoming and timelessly elegant. By Michael Korb

What’s black and white and loved

focused on using varying shades of

all over? This new waterfront home

neutral tones to create contrast.

in the Moorings designed by Stofft

A perfect example in the great

Cooney Architects and Carrie

room is a commissioned piece by

Brigham Design. Sticking to a sim-

local artist Danny Geschardt, who

ple palette, interior designer Carrie

is best known for his use of pastels.

Brigham created a space that feels

Here he stuck to black, gray and

welcoming and, above all, time-

white for the 50- by 75-inch canvas

less. “That was their primary goal,”

that anchors the space.

Brigham says of the homeowners.

Brigham, who chose everything

“They wanted a home that wouldn’t

from the rooftop tiles to the driveway

date itself, and that they could even-

pavers to the garage doors, landed

tually grow into.”

on a medium-toned Legno Bastone

The owners also shared with

wide plank smoked white oak for

Brigham that they have a slight

the floors to keep the home from

aversion to color and have always

looking too cold. She played off that

gravitated toward a black-and-white

with the wet bar in the great room,

color scheme. So, the designer incor-

which has upper and lower cabinets

porated shades of taupe, gray and

made of bleached walnut and com-

tans to lessen the formality of black

plemented it with brass grills and

and white. Per their direction, she

hardware. That same space features

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GULFSHORE LIFE

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A R C H I T E C T : Stofft Cooney Architects B U I L D E R : Knauf-Koenig Group I N T E R I O R D E S I G N : Carrie Brigham Design P H O T O G R A P H Y : Blaine Johnathan Photography

HOME

2 15


HOME STYLISH LIVING

The black, gray and white Danny Geschardt painting in the great room speaks to the palette throughout, including in the kitchen and dining area where various neutral tones play off each other.

2 16

GULFSHORE LIFE

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HOME STYLISH LIVING

a uniquely shallow built-in cabinet along the media wall (in charcoal), with the added quirk of having a John Richard 3D woven media cabinet in taupe-stained oak below the 85-inch television. The adjacent and expansive kitchen continues the color theme with white cabinetry (also used in the butler’s pantry) and a display cabinet that matches the gray of the great room’s built-in cabinets and features the same bleached oak from the wet bar as an insert. A 52-inch wand chandelier illuminates the spacious en suite bath,

The seating space within the

which also has an abstract painting from Naples’ Sweet Art Gallery,

kitchen/dining area has become

where most of the home’s art came from.

unexpectedly lived in, the homeowner says. “The cozy sitting space within the kitchen area is where everyone seems to congregate. Our grandkids play with their toys on

2 18

GULFSHORE LIFE

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Make a statement by living a statement.

Only on the shores of Babcock Ranch’s shimmering lakes can you get away to nature’s quiet, or take a short stroll to farm-to-table dining, and still feel right at home. From the state-of-the-art wellness and fitness center with on-site health clinics, to a firstclass education system, America’s first solar-powered town is unlike anywhere else in the world. Let us show you lakefront living that makes a statement.

custom Lakefront estate homes from $800s to over $1.5 miLLion 888.659.7488 | Babcockranch.com/lake-babcock-estates ©2020 Babcock Ranch. Broker participation is welcome. Prices, plans, specifications and community design are subject to change. Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating the representations of the developer. For correct information regarding Babcock Ranch, interested parties should refer to written materials provided by the developer, legislative acts related to Babcock Ranch and the covenants and restrictions of the Babcock Ranch Residential Association, Inc. The information provided above is not intended to be an offering and should be considered as informational only.


HOME STYLISH LIVING

The master suite has 14-foot vaulted ceilings with tongue-and-groove paneling, along with black window frames, gray walls and potted trees for greenery.

the table while grandma and grandpa

quartzite, with end cap of steel bars on

works perfectly below a pair of pendant

can relax,” she says. The butler’s pan-

each side. “I knew that the island was

lamps in black, brass and white that are

try, meanwhile, proves useful for mak-

going to be huge and that the end look-

36 inches by 24 inches, helping balance

ing smoothies and fresh-pressed juices

ing at the great room was going to be a

the scale of the island and oversized

each morning, with the mess remaining

focal point. Normally, I like an island to

range hood.

tucked away.

have a closed end, but I wanted this to

Another highlight is the master suite,

The kitchen also houses a 14-foot

be a combination of open and closed,”

which showcases the residence’s use

island, covered in a variant of Taj Mahal

Brigham says. The dark wood and steel

of black windows against white wood

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GULFSHORE LIFE

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HOME STYLISH LIVING

trim. The 14-foot vaulted ceilings, with tongue-and-groove paneling, canopy the king-sized upholstered bed. “I decided on a wall molding to go around it,” Brigham adds. Potted olive trees add greenery and enhance the connection to the outdoors. The large en suite mixes stark detail with statement pieces. A standalone tub presides under an abstract work from Sweet Art Gallery in Naples (where much of the home’s artwork came from), while a 52-inch modern wand chandelier illuminates everything, including the natural stone flooring. The master suite opens onto a pool area replete with spa, fire feature and conversation area, all of which look out over the bay. The pool and outdoor spaces overlook a bay and are punctuated by a spa, fire feature and conversation area.

All in all, Brigham proves that color is not the only way to achieve vibrant results. Rather, it’s restraint that offers style and longevity in a world where few things are black and white.

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HOME F AV O R I T E T H I N G S

ANIM AL M AGNETISM From leopard-print fabrics to lion-paw table legs to fish-scale pottery, these designs capture the beauty of the natural world. By Michael Korb

Animal Crackers Most animal print upholstery copies the patterns found in the natural world. But the Wilderie Collection by Emma J. Shipley for Clarke & Clarke shows the regal creatures themselves for whimsical-yet-elegant results. Price upon request; through your design professional via kravat.com

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Full-Service Interior Design Fine Furnishings Custom Remodeling Interior Architectural Detail New Construction Project Management

www.reneegaddis.com 239.431.8352 15940 Old 41 N., Suite 530 • Naples, FL 34110 FL LICENSE IB26001518

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HOME F AV O R I T E T H I N G S

Hot Dog Fort Myers artist Lily Hatchett is known for her work in numerous mediums, but her Dog Head series, made of ink on 100% cotton archival paper and canvas, has become a favorite. Available in an assortment of breeds, these 14-inch-by-12-inch pieces enlist a passing “good boy.” $800; lilyhatchett.com

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OUR DESIGN STUDIO NOW OPEN FOR APPOINTMENTS

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HOME F AV O R I T E T H I N G S

Show Your Stripes No zebras were harmed in the making of Minotti’s Clive bench, which features a bold pattern and minimalist silhouette perched upon aluminum blades. The piece is ideal for mindful respites. From $12,810; casaitaliaonline.com

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HOME F AV O R I T E T H I N G S

For the Birds A bird in the hand is worth one wrapped in gold leaf and mounted on a marble base. This Textured Impasto Sandpiper is a perfect accent piece no matter the style of your decor. At 9.5 inches by 9.5 inches, it makes itself known. $224; summerfieldsnaples.com

For your premier landscape services.

3889 Sanibel Captiva Road (239) 768.5655 www.rswalsh.com


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HOME F AV O R I T E T H I N G S

Chest of Roars If you like tiger stripes but prefer your prints to be more abstract, Tommy Bahama Home’s Los Altos Collection features the Tangiers Hall Chest. Balanced, sophisticated, head turning, it is equally capable as a conversation piece or as a sock holder. No matter your needs, it’s gr-r-reat! $2,294; norrisfurniture.com

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E xq uisite Mediterr a Estate

17004 Treviso Way | $4,995,000

5 Bedrooms + Den | 6 Full Bathrooms Views! Views! Views! This grand two story estate home boasts some of the best golf course views in all of Mediterra! Outstanding craftsmanship is reflected in every aspect of this custom built home. Upon entering the home you are greeted with sweeping views that are visible from every room. Stunning upgrades include faux finishes, Venetian plastered walls, coffered ceilings, custom crown molding and marble floors throughout the home including the lanai. The family room is the pivotal point in the home; open, spacious and overlooking the outdoor living areas. Indoor living flows effortlessly to the outside where the pool side fireplace and summer kitchen make entertaining a breeze. Family and guests will enjoy the tiered and terraced negative edge pool with water features. New roof and lanai screens in 2018.

Weekly Realty Group, LLC

Info@Te a mWeekly.com | 239-793 -8762 | www.Te a mWeekly.com


HOME

REALTY CHECK

DREA M HOMES A box-shaped home in Park Shore that’s anything but square and a ’70s-era condo that’s been updated and filled with art. By Tess Raines

With a gleaming white interior and a

The crisp geometric structure is not lost

ethanol fireplace sits in the middle of the

facade that’s striking for its boxy appear-

in its surroundings. The soaring floor-to-

living area, adding a touch of privacy to

ance, 665 Fountainhead Way in Naples

ceiling windows, with vertically gridded

the space without detracting from the

stands apart from the rest.

muntins, are reflected in the rectangular

communal flow.

Barnes Construction Group built

pavers separated by turf in the drive-

The kitchen maintains the home’s geo-

the home in 2016, and the homeowner

way. Three attached climate-controlled

metric lean with a row of polished white

designed the interiors. “It’s a very eclectic

garages anchor the home on either side.

Alno German cabinets—which open from

mix, not just stark and contemporary,”

Inside, the 4,656-square-foot resi-

the bottom, rather than the sides—just

says listing agent Jennifer DeFrancesco,

dence is defined by an open floor plan.

above the counter and wrapped around

with Coldwell Banker Realty.

A stone wall housing a double-sided,

the island. A stainless steel backsplash,

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Courtesy Eyeleen L Photography/Eileen Laibinis

GOLD STANDARD


Le Jardin At Venetian Village/Park Shore PE

ND

IN

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4201 Gulf Shore Boulevard North #302, Naples, Florida 34103 $4,325,000 Once you enter into this beautiful condo you immediately feel as though you are in a single-family home. The expansive owner-terrace overlooking the Gulf of Mexico where you can walk down to the pool or to the manicured green space/park to walk your dogs. This 3-bedroom, 3.5 bathrooms, and den with an open floor plan is perfect for any family. Recently painted, new light fixtures throughout, marble flooring and new carpet. You have electric hurricane shutters and high-impact windows. Walking distance to Venetian Village too. The building has 3 newly remodeled guest suites for visitors.

John J. Robert III (239) 571-2231 JRobert@JohnRWood.com JJRobert3.com

Shirlene Elkins (239) 777-9574 Shirlene@JohnRWood.com HomesByShirlene.com


HOME REALTY CHECK

Sub-Zero and Thermador appliances, including a built-in Courtesy Eyeleen L Photography/Eileen Laibinis (2)

espresso machine, keep up with the home’s meticulously fresh feel. The white oak flooring by Legno Bastone adds warmth and extends into each of the four en suite bedrooms. Lofty windows throughout add to the ambiance. “You come in through the front door and look straight out onto the pool area,” DeFrancesco explains. Six sliding pocket glass doors frame the backside of the home, which allows natural light to pour through, and immediately showcases the pool and spa. But it’s the landscaping, an element that the owner was hands-on with, that makes the home stand out.

Interior Design Services Consignments Furniture • Decor • Fine Art New Accessories & Gifts

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W NE

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QUAIL WEST | PENDING 6536 HIGHCROFT DRIVE

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QUAIL WEST | SOLD 5912 BURNHAM ROAD

SO

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QUAIL WEST | SOLD 6566 HIGHCROFT DRIVE

Tom Grifferty, Realtor® 239-293-9560 TGrifferty@JohnRWood.com

QUAIL WEST | SOLD 6511 HIGHCROFT DRIVE

QUAIL WEST | SOLD 4478 WAYSIDE DRIVE

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QUAIL WEST | PENDING 6376 BURNHAM ROAD

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QUAIL WEST | PENDING 4641 IDYLWOOD LANE

AUDUBON COUNTRY CLUB | PENDING 238 AUDUBON BOULEVARD

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QUAIL WEST | $1,750,000 4416 WOODMONT COURT

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QUAIL WEST | SOLD 28704 LA CAILLE DRIVE

Carmen Grifferty, Realtor® 239-293-9570 CGrifferty@JohnRWood.com

Kim Basa, Realtor® 239-572-5212 KBasa@JohnRWood.com

PALAZZO AT NAPLES | SOLD 10055 FLORENCE CIRCLE

Matt Wood, Realtor® 239-963-7423 MWood@JohnRWood.com

www.TheGriffertyGroup.com


HOME REALTY CHECK

Despite being in the well-populated Park Shore neighborhood, the entire residence is uniquely enveloped by lush vegetation—palms, bamboo, banana trees and other greenery. “Once you’re inside, you feel like you are in the tropics,” DeFrancesco says. “You can’t see the street and you don’t hear anything.” It’s the only house in the community to have such afford visitors the opportunity to enjoy it. Even

Tropical vegetation provides a barrier from neighbors

with the looks of a spacious resort, the home exudes

and noise in this Park Shore home.

comfort. “It has a very welcoming, warm, homey feel although you’re at 9,087 square feet overall,” DeFrancesco says, referring to the total structure area. “It’s such a unique property.”

Courtesy Eyeleen L Photography/ Eileen Laibinis

privacy, and the terraces adjoining each guest room

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RoyalShellRealEstate.com | 239.237.1753 FORT MYERS

Live life luxuriously in this over-the-top waterfront showplace. This riverfront estate home is located in Gulf Harbour Yacht & Country Club, one of Southwest Florida’s premier gated communities. The exquisitely designed residence has abundant indoor and outdoor poolside living space, a separate guesthouse, gorgeous river views and every imaginable convenience. The community offers full-service country club amenities including a deep-water yacht club, casual and formal dining options, golf, tennis, resort-style community pool, fitness center and spa. $6,495,000

MLS# 220081239 | Patti Testa, McMurray & Members 239.770.5445

CAPTIVA ISLAND

CAPTIVA VILLAGE

• Charming 2 BR, 2 BA Beachfront Cottage • Vacation Home & Great Rental Potential $2,389,000 MLS# 220021477 McMurray & Members 239.850.7888

BONITA SPRINGS

BONITA BAY - HORIZONS

• 3 BR, 4 BA + Den, Sun Room, 3,799 S.F. • Expansive Patio w/Bay Views $995,000 MLS# 220059100 Connie Lummis, The Lummis Team 239.289.3543

OCALA

NEAR WORLD EQUESTRIAN CENTER

• Buy 10, 20 and/or all 41 Acres • Partially Cleared, Mature Oaks/Palms $789,000 MLS# 613028 Katie Moon 561.402.9961

NAPLES

GOLDEN GATE ESTATES

• 5 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms • Chef’s Kitchen w/SS Viking Appliances $1,498,000 MLS# 220079193 Joe Epifanio, Epifanio Team 239.825.6161

SANIBEL ISLAND

ANCHORS AWEIGH

• Private, East End Location on Canal • Furnished 3 BR, 2.5 BA w/Pool $1,249,000 MLS# 221006236 Trevor Nette 239.281.4435

MATLACHA

ISLAND HARBORS

• 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, 3,021 S.F. • Spacious Floor Plan, Waterfront $825,000 MLS# 219068957 Toni Shoemaker 239.464.3645

SANIBEL ISLAND

MARINER POINTE

• 2 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath Townhouse • Panoramic Bay Views, Direct Walk-Out $690,000 MLS# 221000640 Bob Radigan 239.691.6240

FORT MYERS

BRIARCLIFF

• 3 Acres of Lush Landscaping • 6+ CG, Kids Playhouse, Pool $825,000 Troy De Mond 239.822.0332

MLS# 220060450

CAPE CORAL

NORTHWEST CAPE CORAL

• Waterfront Views • Pool $639,000 MLS# 221010001 Paul Jones, Koffman Group 239.699.7441


HOME REALTY CHECK

RENOVATION SPOTLIGHT Transforming an outdated condo into a

alized spaces that highlight the pieces, and

dimensional tiles in a smoky charcoal

place to showcase art sounds like a high

hired L-Design Studio to design around

hue to resemble stacked stone. The team

target, but it’s one that Michael Brunoli,

the art. Bremers’ glass sculpture of a 500-

left a gap in the middle for an electric fire-

the project manager of PBS Contractors,

pound, life-sized dolphin, for instance,

place that backs into the master bedroom

was keen to hit. The North Naples condo

stands in the balcony, complementing the

behind it.

in question was dated by more than 40

sea mammals’ routine appearances in the

years. “It was the typical interior design of

Gulf right outside.

Because the couple also enjoys casual

Naples in the late ’70s,” Brunoli explains.

In the living area, the contracting team

relegated to the confines of the closed-

“Everything had walls; it was boxed in;

removed a built-in bookcase and small

off kitchen. “The design goal was to open

the hallways were dark; everything had

wine bar, and constructed a blank wall

it up and let the space communicate with

its own space.”

with deep recesses for displaying other

the dining room and the living space,”

The owners, a couple with six children,

sculptures. Brunoli tapped lighting design

he says. The company knocked down the

have a collection of art that includes glass-

consultants to retrofit each nook with

wall separating the kitchen from the rest

blown sculptures, items collected through

backlighting to illuminate the works.

of the communal area, and installed an

their European travels and commissioned

To further emphasize the art wall and

island with waterfall porcelain top and

pieces from artist friends like Dutch sculp-

add depth to the room, the adjacent wall

sides. With the look of polished marble,

tor Peter Bremers. They wanted individu-

was padded from floor to ceiling with

the island—open on one end to accommo-

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Courtesy PBS Contractors/Darren Miles Photography

dining, Brunoli didn’t want them to feel


“When your journey includes us, you travel better.” —Our promise to you!

Lee McCarthy President

36 NINTH STREET SOUTH SUITE 3 NAPLES, FL 34102 239.263.4433 MADTRAVEL.COM

In addition to redesigning around the couples’ art collection, the builders also worked to create an open space in this North Naples condo.

HOME

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HOME REALTY CHECK

date bar seating for three—instantly brightens the space. The kitchen is studded with a double oven and ample storage. “All the base cabinets are drawers,” Brunoli notes. Of all the changes, Brunoli’s proudest of the master bathroom. The owners were open to the idea of having a large wet room area with no shower door or tray. “When it comes to plumbing, condos are difficult. A lot of times, new designs are prohibited from making major plumbing changes,” he says. To swap the existing setup, the team had to get creative, raising the floor about four inches to accommodate drainage without entering the unit below. Working around constraints enabled the team to create a spa-like retreat. They lined the wet room with matte, porcelain tile flooring resembling wood planks, replaced the shower head with a handheld hose and added an inset cubby to hold towels. “We were able to think completely outside the box,” he says.

g ulf shorelife.com


S P O N S O R E D

C O N T E N T

TOP PRODUCERS

Getty

APRIL 2021

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PARK SHORE

BEACHFRONT RAPTURE | $15.95M Carribean-Style Beachfront Estate

PARK SHORE

PARK SHORE

REGENT PH4 | $16.9M 360˚ Gulf-to-Bay Sunrise and Sunset Views

2111 FORREST LN | $8.195M Modern Design, New Construction on the Water

PREMIER SOTHE BY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

308 TURTLE HATCH | $5.75M Southwestern Sunset Views on Venetian Bay

MOORINGS

AQUALANE SHORES

REGENT 12S | $9.75M Panoramic Views of the Gulf of Mexico

VISTA ROYALE #1 | $3.15M Dramatic Bay Views with Quick Access to the Gulf

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. If your property is listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers. We are happy to work with them and cooperate fully. Users may not copy, modify, reproduce, republish, distribute, display, 4 U L F Spurposes H O R E Lall I For E any portion of this document except to the extent authorized by Michael Lawler 239.610.8989. Information is deemed g ulfaccurate shorelife.com or2 4transmit for commercial, nonprofit, orGpublic but not guaranteed. MGL_21014

HARBOUR POINT


PORT ROYAL

T O P P R O D U C E R S

EXTERIOR RENDERING*

3530 FORT CHARLES DR | $12.25M Pre-Completion with Port Royal Eligibility

T O P

PARK SHORE

M Y L I S T I N G S

Michael Lawler has focused his expertise

PROVENCE PH3N | $8.95M Private Rooftop Terrace with Breathtaking Views

on luxury residential properties in coastal communities throughout Southwest Florida. His strong knowledge of local market conditions,

GORDON DRIVE ESTATES

innovative marketing strategies and established network have resulted in the successful sale of many of the area's most desired waterfront estates. He currently ranks #1 in Florida and #15 among the top residential realtors in the United States per the REAL Trends 2020 report of individual realtors by sales volume.

INTERIOR RENDERING*

2030 GORDON DR | $8.95M Pre-Completion with Resort-Like Outdoor Area

*Image for illustration purposes only. We strive to provide timely and accurate information, but make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of image and expressly disclaim liability for errors and omissions as to content.

E X C L U S I V E LY R E P R E S E N T E D B Y M I C H A E L L A W L E R

239.610.8989 I N F O @ M I C H A E L L AW L E R . C O M 800 HARBOUR DR | NAPLES, FL 34103

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MY TOP LISTINGS

RECENTLY SOLD

TALIS PARK

Bed/Bath

Sq.Ft. Sold Price

16471 Seneca Way

5BD/6BA

5,095

$3,400,000

16446 Seneca Way

3BD/4BA

3,607

$3,000,000

16434 Seneca Way

3BD/4BA

3,658

$2,400,000

16452 Carrara Way #9-301

3BD/4BA

2,930

$1,065,000

16336 Corsica Way #10-201

3BD/4BA

3,382

$1,170,000

16776 Brightling Way

3BD/5BA

3,704

$1,750,000

16358 Corsica Way

3BD/4BA

3,382

$990,000

16437 Carrara Way #202

3BD/4BA

2,930

$834,000

to be specific in what you specialize “ I feel init istoimportant offer your clients the utmost experience. ” - Chloe de Maleissye-Melun

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GULFSHORE LIFE

TOP PRODUCERS

|

ADVERTISEMENT

g ulf shorelife.com


CHLOE DE MALEISSYE-MELUN In working exclusively in the development of Talis Park for many years, Chloe has top experience in working alongside 17 luxury builders in the SWFL market who specifically specialize in Luxury Lifestyle communities. Whether she needs to assist a buyer in a new construction process or assist a seller in getting their top-quality home sold, Chloe is well experienced in both realms. “Each community offers a different vibe, finding the right lifestyle that best fits my clients and their family is a process I enjoy.” Chloe attributes her success to specializing in the North Naples Luxury real estate market and southwest Florida’s Tier One lifestyle communities. “With so many opportunities to sell real estate all over the SWFL area, I feel it is important to be specific in what you specialize in, in order to offer your clients the utmost experience. My knowledge and expertise delivers my clients comfort and ease.”

Chloe de Maleissye-Melun

4001 Tamiami Trail North, Suite 102, Naples FL 34103 (239) 287-7431 Chloe.Melun@PremierSIR.com 247


T O P P R O D U C E R S

L I S T I N G S

C H A N DL ER M. M A R K S , P. A . P R E M I E R S OT H E B Y S I N T E R N AT I O N A L R E A LT Y L E T M E S H O W YO U M Y H O M E TO W N , N A P L E S !

M Y

T O P

Chandler M. Marks was born in Naples and raised here in Southwest Florida. His great grandfather was introduced to this special town in the early 1940’s and settled here. This very unique family history provides an advantage of knowing niche areas and neighborhoods, combined with his innate ability to find his customers’ dream homes for their lifestyles and high returns for real estate investment portfolios. The “HOMETOWN ADVANTAGE” is just one of many secret tools that energizes Chandler’s success with ranking in the top percentile of Naples realtors in the luxury real estate market as well as top in the nation by REAL TRENDS. Chandler lives a very energetic lifestyle and desired to further pursue his passions: marketing, negotiating and most importantly, the love of meeting new people. With residences in Naples and Ocala he always is happy to share his hometown knowledge.

QUAIL CREEK 21 PALMS - 4445 SILVER FOX DRIVE | $6,795,000 COMPLETION SPRING 2021 Co-Listed with Claudia P. Vitulich, PA

Certified Luxuiy Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) Certified Negotation Expert (CNE)

GOLDEN OAKS RANCH 14857 STATE ROAD 78, MOORE HAVEN | $3,950,000

325 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, FL 34108 (239) 980-0272 | myhometownnaples.biz 248

GULFSHORE LIFE

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SOLD • COLLIER'S RESERVE - 1221 POCANTICO LANE | $1,775,000

SOLD • PINE RIDGE - 612 CARICA | $2,575,000

SOLD • NAPLES SQUARE - DOUBLE PENTHOUSE - 1030 THIRD AVE. S. #516 | RECORD PRICE $2,150,000

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T O P P R O D U C E R S

SOLD | 626 PARKVIEW LANE, PARK SHORE, NAPLES

Katherine Marx Headwaters Real Estate Broker, Realtor

An elegant tropical oasis in the heart of Park Shore. 4BR +• office, 4 baths, 1DRIVE, partialNAPLES bath, 4496 SF under air. SOLD 615 HARBOUR 4$3,815,000 Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths, 1 Partial Bath, 3,707 Square Feet Under Air $3,450,000

The Headwaters team believes that your home should be a

M Y

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L I S T I N G S

place of harmony and rejuvenation, whether returning after weeks of travel, a day focused on business, or an afternoon enjoying the unparalleled beauty of Southwest Florida. Katherine collaborates with Headwaters homeowners

JA N E DOE

through every step of the purchase, design, planning, and construction phases. Her main focus is on listening to each C O M PA N Y N A M E homeowner’s priorities and preferences and working closely with the Headwaters team and local architects to determine Optam harum dolorporepe la sin pror as aspel il eum ex the mostetdesirable location, floormporem plan, and elici aut volum rerunte hilcustomized mincid ut untibus. design elements to create home that speaks to their Necea dolesci tiatusthe eos volo dellutem volorempor sin eicte ditatus et odi rerendu ntorecturthoughtful sunt facesciapproach psaerro tem unique vision and lifestyle. Katherine’s aut evene mollend anderupta consers pernatu to creating uplifting and inspiring spaces allows her reiuOptam to harum dolorporepe la sin pror as aspel il eum ex et elici aut provide seamless guidance every step of the way. volum rerunte mporem hil mincid ut untibus.ecea dolesci tiatus eos volo dellutem volorempor sin eicte ditatus et odi rerendu ntorectur sunt facesci psaerro tem aut evene mollend anderupta consers pernatu reiunt, co dolorpoe la sin pror as aspel il eum ex et elici aut volu rerunte mporem hil mincid ut untibuNecea dolesci tiatus eos volo dellutem volorempor sin eicte ditatus et odi rerendu ntorectur sunt facesci psaerro tem aut evene mollend anderupta consers pernatu reiunt, con

SOLD | 4501 GULF SHORE BLVD, N., ARIA CONDOMINIUM, PARK SHORE, NAPLES Sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico and Park Shore Beach Park.

SOLD • 615 HARBOUR DRIVE, NAPLES office, 4 full baths, 1 partial bath, 4773 SF under air. Air 43BR + Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths, 1 Partial Bath, 3,707 Square Feet Under $3,450,000 $4,300,000

Katherine Marx kmarx@headwaters-development.com | 239.298.4351 headwaters-development.com PO Box 110062, Naples, Fl. 34108

Jane.Doe@Company

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SOLD | 1648 VINLAND WAY, THE LANDINGS AT BEAR’S PAW, NAPLES SOLD • 615 HARBOUR DRIVE, NAPLES New construction with private dock, Gulf access boating, and golf. 4 Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths, 1 Partial Bath, 3,707 Square Feet Under Air 4BR + office, 5 full baths, 1 partial bath, 4885 SF under air. $3,450,000

$3,579,225 g ulf shorelife.com


COMING SOON

SOLD • 615 HARBOUR DRIVE, NAPLES 4 Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths, 1 Partial Bath, 3,707 Square Feet Under Air $3,450,000

SOLD • 615 HARBOUR DRIVE, NAPLES 4 Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths, 1 Partial Bath, 3,707 Square Feet Under Air $3,450,000

SOLD • 615 HARBOUR DRIVE, NAPLES 4 Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths, 1 Partial Bath, 3,707 Square Feet Under Air $3,450,000

SOLD • 615 HARBOUR DRIVE, NAPLES 4 Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths, 1 Partial Bath, 3,707 Square Feet Under Air $3,450,000

Enjoy effortless resort style living in a perfectly tucked away tropical enclave located just west of US41 in the village of Estero, Florida. New construction homes, resort style living, and ideal location combine to embody the ultimate Southwest Florida lifestyle. Conveniently located on Coconut Road just ¼ mile from the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa, Coconut Landing will feature 25 single family homes, each one boasting seamless indoor/outdoor living, open and uplifting floor plans, and a sparkling private pool. With incredible surroundings, VIP membership option to the Hyatt

C O C O N U T- L A N D I N G .C O M

Regency Coconut Point Resort & Spa, and nearby beaches, golf, shopping, and dining, Coconut Landing will invite you to enjoy every moment, whether relaxing at home or stepping out.

SOLD • 615 HARBOUR DRIVE, NAPLES 4 Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths, 1 Partial Bath, 3,707 Square Feet Under Air Pre-construction offerings starting from the $900,000’s.* $3,450,000 *Pricing and availability subject to change.

SOLD • 615 HARBOUR DRIVE, NAPLES 4 Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths, 4528 1 PartialCO Bath, Feet Under Air CO3,707 NU TSquare R OA D, $3,450,000

E STE RO, F LO RI DA

2 51


L I S T I N G S

T O P P R O D U C E R S

T O P

“My legal background and work ethic enable me to provide the exceptional service you deserve.”

CATHERINE MCAVOY R E A L E S TAT E P R O F E S S I O N A L 2 3 9. 3 7 0 . 2 5 3 9 C AT H E R I N E . M C AVOY@ P R E M I E R S I R .C O M C AT H E R I N E M C AVOY. P R E M I E R S O T H E BY S R E A LT Y.C O M

M Y

Cathy is a 25-year resident of Naples specializing in luxury residential sales in Old Naples, Aqualane Shores, Park Shore, Moorings and Pelican Bay. Cathy grew up in Buffalo, New York, and graduated from Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts, with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology. She earned her law degree from the University of Buffalo and worked as an attorney at the New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division, in Rochester, New York, until 1995 when she relocated to Naples with her family. Cathy raised her three children in Naples and worked in real estate law as well as for Collier County Public Schools as a GED instructor, substitute teacher and volunteer. Her husband, Brian, is a Trusts and Estates attorney in Naples and their children all attended the University of Florida. Meredith is an attorney in Orlando, Max is a craft brewer in Broomfield, Colorado, and Jack is a civil engineer in Breckenridge, Colorado. Cathy is a member of the Florida and New York Bar Associations, and earned her broker’s license and her GRI designation.

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ENCLAVE RESIDENCE 7 – PARK SHORE | $5,900,000. Unsurpassed, breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico from the dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows of this residence directly on the beach in a premier high rise, boasting only one estate per floor.

MERIDIAN CLUB 203 – PARK SHORE | $1,795,000. Stunning full renovation and redesign of this residence resulting in the perfect Park Shore beach retreat. Move right into this designer furnished turnkey residence that exudes elegance and comfort. 253


Cape Marco–Belize 970 Cape Marco Drive #1204

A TOP 4 AGENT IN COLLIER COUNTY

Significant Sales

Over the past 21 years, we have sold more than 1,300 properties across Southwest Florida! In 2020, we were #3 in sales volume for Collier County. Here is a selection of our significant sales… Aqualane Shores 580 15th Avenue S Audubon 219 Audubon Boulevard Bonita Springs 207 Dolphin Cove Court Caxambas Towers 1036 S Collier Boulevard #PH-C Collier's Reserve 819 Barcarmil Way Dunnfoire 530 S Collier Boulevard #703 Estates of Marco Island 540 & 550 Hammock Court 580, 845 & 875 S Heathwood Drive 981 E Inlet Drive 1411 Forrest Court 1491 & 1650 Caxambas Court 1588 Shores Court Fiddler's Creek 3111 Malaga Lane 3225 Tavolara Lane 3839 & 3875 Isla Del Sol Way Fort Myers Beach 3360 Estero Boulevard

Grey Oaks 2663 Caladium Way Hemingway Place 1419 Hemingway Place Hideaway Beach 871 Sea Dune Lane 940 Sea Oats Court 1002 Royal Marco Way 4000 Royal Marco Way #723 6000 Royal Marco Way #PH-C Isles of Collier Preserve 5051 Tortola Court Kalea Bay 13925 Old Coast Road #505 Keewaydin Island 11687 Keewaydin Le Ciel Park Tower 3991 Gulf Shore Boulevard N #PH-201 Lely Resort 6652 Costa Circle 7642 Palmer Court Logan Woods 5385 Palmetto Woods Drive Madeira 350 S Collier Boulevard #803

Marco Island 130 Hollyhock Court 230 Copperfield Court 242 Stillwater Court 245 Polynesia Court 424 River Court 616 Crescent Street 670 Rockport Court 681 Pelican Court 921 Ruby Court 1251 Laurel Court 1286 Orange Court 1813 Canby Court Mediterra 14902 Bellezza Lane 16703 Lucarno Way Moorings 615 Harbour Drive 680 Regatta Road Naples Reserve 4195 Charthouse Court Olde Naples 264 & 284 10th Avenue S Park Shore Tower 4251 Gulf Shore Boulevard N #12-B

Pelican Bay 687 Ardmore Lane Port Royal 3292 Green Dolphin Lane Quail West 4297 Deephaven Lane 5990 & 6064 Sunnyslope Drive 6428 Dunberry Lane Summit House 280 S Collier Boulevard #406 Treviso Bay 9655 Lipari Court Twin Dolphins 700 La Peninsula Boulevard #604 TwinEagles 11995 Maidstone Court Vera Cruz at Cape Marco 940 Cape Marco Drive #1903 Verandah 3456 Brantley Oaks Drive Vistas at Park Shore 4651 Gulf Shore Boulevard N #1702 For a full list of our recent sales, please contact us.


Pelican Bay 6513 Thomas Jefferson Court

We specialize in customized marketing plans for luxury properties. Contact Michelle for a confidential consultation. It’s incredibly gratifying to help customers find their dream homes or sell their properties quickly and for the highest price possible. If you or someone you know is interested in purchasing or selling a home, we can help!

michelle.thomas@premiersir.com 239.860.7176 | michellethomasteam.com

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. These properties were not all listed and/or sold by Premier Sotheby’s International Realty and were listed and/or sold by various MLS participating offices.


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FIDDLER'S CREEK, NAPLES - 3325 RUNAWAY LANE | $1,249,000 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, 3659 square feet under air.

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FOR

SAL

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B ON N I E Z A I KOV

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TE AM LE ADER REMA X AFFINIT Y PLUS

M Y

With over 20 years of real estate experience, I have learned what’s really important in real estate is wanting to provide the best possible service to my clients. Putting clients’ best interests above all else always translates to success. I am proud to be the team leader of a dedicated group of professional realtors who pride themselves in the personal service to clients and ensure the highest level of service.

LUXURY HIGH RISE IN HAMMOCK BAY, NAPLES 1050 BORGHESE LANE #302 | $550,000 SWFLA-MLS 220073082 FOR SALE: 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, one half bath, with two parking spaces and storage in the building. 2606 square feet under air.

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678 Bald Eagle Drive Marco Island, FL 34145 (239) 571-9300 bzaikov.remax.com bonniezaikov@yahoo.com

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LUXURY WATERFRONT HIGH RISE HIDEAWAY BEACH, MARCO ISLAND - 6000 ROYAL MARCO WAY #454 - | $1,150,000 2 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 2527 square feet under air.

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LUXURY HIGH RISE IN HAMMOCK BAY, NAPLES 1050 BORGHESE LANE #2001, - | $995,000 SWFLA-MLS 220064430 FOR SALE: 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, one half bath, with private enclosed two car garage and extra storage space, 2878 square feet under air. FOR

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FIDDLER'S CREEK, NAPLES - 3824 ISLA DEL SOL WAY LUXURY ESTATE LOT, STOCK BUILT HOME | $1,850,000 FOR SALE: (negotiable SOCO designed furniture package $150,000) SWFLA-MLS 220068443 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, one half bath, plus den, 3597 square feet under air

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HIDEAWAY BEACH, MARCO ISLAND - 355 HIDEAWAY CIRCLE S. $2,500,000 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, 2 half baths, den, 3700 square feet under air.

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FIDDLER'S CREEK, NAPLES - 7682 MULBERRY LANE | $979,900 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 2601 square feet under air.

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FIDDLER'S CREEK, NAPLES - 3286 BELON LANE | $995,000 3 bedrooms, 3 full baths, one half bath, den, 3101 square feet under air. .

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FIDDLER'S CREEK, NAPLES - 3118 MALAGA LANE | $1,990,000 4 bedrooms, 4 full baths, one half bath, den, 3054 square feet under air.

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SOLD - OLDE NAPLES 350 4TH AVENUE SOUTH

MAGGIE IVES BRINGING YOUR DREAMS HOME.

MAGGIE IVES is a results-driven professional realtor that places her main focus on supporting clients through the entire process of buying and selling high-end real estate properties. She believes that finding your dream home must be accompanied by an excellent customer experience.

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Rooftops on Fourth, an exclusive and luxury downtown condominium residence with a location that could not be more perfect. This exquisite, nearly 5,000 Sq. Ft. penthouse residence boasts a stunning interior design and a private 3-car underbuilding garage.

With a background in service-oriented entrepreneurship and sales, Maggie addresses clients’ needs with an empathetic attitude. She knows that time is priceless and does everything to preserve it for her clients. Finding a home or selling a house shouldn’t be a stressful experience. It should be a wonderful dreams-chasing process. Maggie’s goal is to be with you every step of the way, to avoid pitfalls, and oversee every detail.

500 Fifth Ave South, Suite 501 Naples, FL 34102 239.910.2581 Maggie@MaggieIves.com www.MaggieIves.com 258

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SOLD - GRAMERCY IN THE MOORINGS 2777 GULF SHORE BOULEVARD NORTH, #6-S This 6th floor, desirable southwest corner residence features stunning views of both the Gulf of Mexico & Moorings Bay. Three bedrooms plus an office/den, 4-full and one-half-baths features a private dual bath master suite. Wide panoramic Gulf and beach views are showcased from the open dining area, great room and enclosed large wraparound gulf facing terrace.

SOLD - OLDE NAPLES 1040 2ND SREET SOUTH This 6-bedroom, 8-bathroom home, located steps away from our white sandy beaches and the Gulf of Mexico, is a sight to behold with its Olde Florida architecture and coastal interior design. g ulf shorelife.com 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.



Worry Free Living Awaits From Naples to Marco Island

Top Producer 2008- 2020 ML Meade, REALTOR®

ABR, BPOR, GRI, MIS, SRES

239.293.4851 MLMeade@Naples.com MLMeade@MarcoIsland.com

www.NaplesandMarcoIsland.com 260

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T O P P R O D U C E R S

FOR SALE – OLD NAPLES, 401 4TH AVENUE NORTH Completion slated for late 2021 for this Coastal Classic 4 plus den beautiful family home only four blocks to the beach and minutes to downtown, this home exemplifies resort living at its finest

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B R O K E R A S S O C I AT E | ( 2 3 9 ) 4 0 4 -70 0 7 mitch@gcipnaples.com Gulf Coast International Properties®

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DANE NORGART R E A LTO R | ( 2 3 9 ) 59 5 - 310 6 dane@gcipnaples.com

FOR SALE – OLD NAPLES, 770 10TH STREET SOUTH New construction residence boasts nearly 4,300 square feet of living space with 4 bedrooms plus den and 4 baths. This residence is located in an ideal central location and offers the best of Naples luxury lifestyle.

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SOLD – AQUALANE SHORES, 1601 GORDON DRIVE Represented the Seller of this stunning home offering Gulf vistas is a truly special creation. Short stroll to the beach, dining and shopping of 3rd Street South.

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MITCHELL L. NORGART, P.A.

The father and son real estate team of Mitch and Dane Norgart have a combined 33 years of expertise in the ‘downtown Naples’ luxury real estate market. Mitch and Dane are ready to help navigate you through the intricacies of listing and selling your luxury home in Old Naples, Aqualane Shores and Port Royal. Whether buying or selling, the Norgart Team ensures the best outcome of your most valued asset. With vast market knowledge combined with a boutique and concierge level of personalized service, the Norgarts have the unrivaled Gulf Coast International Properties® global presence in their arsenal including state-of-the-art on and offline integrated marketing strategies to help facilitate the most advantageous result for you. The Norgarts take great pride in their civic duty. As part of this commitment, Mitch serves on the Planning Advisory Board (PAB) at the City of Naples, holds a seat on the Board of Directors for Artis Friends at Artis-Naples and together Mitch and Dane volunteer their services for the local non-profit organization, Gulf Coast Runners.

1144 Third Street South | Naples, FL 34102 gcipnaples.com 2 61


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FOR SALE - PORT ROYAL | 944 SPYGLASS LANE Incredible, wide-water, western exposure over Treasure Cove! Offering fantastic Floorplan, incredible light, and sweeping views over Port Royal’s most treasured waterway. 136’ on the water, with plenty of options for dockage.

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T I M O T H Y P. S AVAG E , P. A . G U L F C O A S T I N T E R N AT I O N A L P R O P E R T I E S ®

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A resident of Naples since 1986, Tim holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance and Economics from Florida State University. He has been a full-time Realtor since 1998 with an emphasis on Port Royal, Aqualane Shores, Old Naples and Royal Harbor. He was the first Realtor in Aqualane Shores to break $3m, $4m, $5m, $6m and $10m for sales of new construction and has also sold over 600 million in waterfront property in Port Royal. In 2020, Savage continued to achieve milestones by being ranked number 1 in sales for the neighborhoods of Port Royal, Aqualane Shores, and Old Naples combined, with over $147 million in sales exclusively for those areas! In the current real estate boom of 2021 Tim continues to lead his team with over $196 million in sales to date. In 2020 he expanded operations to include Gulf Coast International Luxury Rentals. Three offices in Naples, 1 Boca Grande, and opening a fourth this year. Tim is married with 3 children.

FOR SALE - THE MOORINGS - LA PERLE | 1820 GULFSHORE BOULEVARD NORTH La Perle is Moorings newest construction luxury waterfront residences. Ideal location affording residents spectacular water vistas, boat dockage and steps to beaches. Only the finest in construction materials and finishes.

®

1144 Third St. S., Naples, Florida, USA 34102 (239) 821-7576 tim@gcipnaples.com | www.gcipnaples.com 262

GULFSHORE LIFE

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T O P P R O D U C E R S

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Ashley Silvers is a true Native to Naples born and raised. She played collegiate Golf for DePauw University and continues to play with clients and friends frequently. She grew up in the real estate business learning from her father who is a true icon of Naples Real Estate. In her career she has sold 30M+ just after 2.5 years in the business. Clients refer to her as a one stop shop due to her ties to the best Naples builders, repairmen, architects, attorneys and title companies. You name it, she will have the most qualified person for the job. She can also point you to the best restaurants, bars and shopping Naples that has to offer. Clients can be assured that they are in expert hands and will benefit from her insights, connections, and unique ability to create and enable deals. Ashley’s reputation in the luxury market is deemed attentive to detail, knowledgeable of the market, efficient and honest by her past clients and peers. Due to her expertise, of the waterfront communities of downtown Naples she has provided the best opportunities for investors and end-users. She predicts the Naples real estate market to continue to climb with the highest demand being in waterfront properties, “The opportunities are endless in Naples because our waterways, beaches and communities are unparalleled” says Ashley. She has seen how Naples has grown in her lifetime and is confident that the growth will continue. She is excited for all that is to come and will continue to help others experience the beauty that Naples, Fl has to offer!

(239) 287-5206 ashley.silvers@compass.com 263


Choose wisely when selecting a real estate professional to help you navigate the shifting market.

Contact me today for a private consultation

239.571.5474 Kimberly.Wagner@PremierSIR.com KimberlyWagner.PremierSothebysRealty.com 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.


T O P P R O D U C E R S

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239-564-5252 / 239-595-5547 265

L I S T I N G S

Professionally redesigned and remodeled in 2017. Two

T O P

FOR SALE * 16671 PISTOIA WAY - TALIS PARK *

For more than forty years the Whitcomb name has been associated with the flourishing Southwest Florida real estate community. Their innate knowledge of the area and their love of Naples affords their clients a true insiders perspective when it comes to selecting or selling a home. They are also working with some of the best architects and builders in Naples, and have secured the best home sites for new homes in Naples. Sites like Park Shore, Pelican Bay, Conners, etc. The Whitcomb Group has been the trusted source for those looking for a Florida Home, and co ntinues the tradition in building and developing residential and commercial properties in Florida.

M Y

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TH E L AT E S T I N W E LL N E S S

268

Wellness: T he Power of Qigong

276

House Call: Health Ne ws and Events


HEALTHY LIFE WELLNESS

THE POWER OF QIGONG

With these gentle exercises you can improve sleep, alleviate stress, increase focus, prevent injuries, boost energy, correct posture and balance emotions.

268

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By Anne Reed

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com


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HEALTHY LIFE WELLNESS

Qigong is a mind-body-spirit practice with roots in China. In Naples, Cosmina Lemione

On a sunny morning in Southwest Florida,

heard of tai chi,” she says. “Tai chi is a mar-

down the breathing,” she recalls. “We

a small group of people glide through a

tial art, and tai chi and qigong are kind of

all fell asleep. When I woke up, I was so

series of gentle exercises, quietly focused

sisters. Qigong is the root of tai chi.”

relaxed, I felt like I was 4 years old.”

on their practice, their bodies moving in synchronized silence.

Lemione’s qigong journey began

She returned to her home in Romania

20 years ago in South Korea while she

and searched for months to find classes,

Qigong, pronounced chee-gung, trans-

was volunteering at a summer camp.

then began practicing regularly as a way

lates to “energy work,” explains Cos-

One day, as part of the camp activities,

to deal with lifelong pain she experi-

mina Lemione, a level 3 certified qigong

she participated in her first qigong

enced from a spinal condition, in which

instructor and owner of White Dove

class. “The instructor kept telling us to

she was born with an extra vertebra.

Qigong in Naples. “Most people have

breathe through the mouth and slow

“When I was doing qigong, the pain left,

270

GULFSHORE LIFE

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teaches classes outside in local parks and at her studio, White Dove Qigong.


Advocate


HEALTHY LIFE WELLNESS

but as soon as I stopped, the pain came

be caused by poor posture. It’s said that

between the two hemispheres, reengag-

back,” she says.

by moving energy through the lower part

ing the right side of the brain, which is

When she relocated to Florida in

of the body, the shoulders relax and the

tied to creativity.

2006, she practiced on her own for a

chest opens, allowing for deeper breath-

Lemione also uses qigong to help

while. She later earned her certification

ing. “This is different from just going to

people deal with anxiety by showing

and began teaching four years ago.

the gym,” she explains. “We are balancing

them methods to manage their body’s

Qigong’s gentle exercises, which focus

the left and right sides and bringing them

reactions to stressors. “Simple exercises,

on combining movement with breath,

down to earth.” Once one area is bal-

nothing complicated,” she notes. “It’s

have become more attractive and acces-

anced, and the energy is flowing, it often

just that we are not familiar with them.

sible to people struggling with pandemic

leads to another area of pain or energy

If you know those exercises, you feel

stress, screen fatigue and the aches, pains

blockage that needs work, including our

stress rising, you know what you have

and posture woes of hours spent sitting in

brains, practitioners believe. “We have a

to do and you can control your body and

front of a computer at home.

tendency to get stuck in the left side of the

that really helps.”

One of the first things Lemione fo-

brain,” Lemione says. She leads students

Other touted benefits of qigong in-

cuses on is shoulder tension, which can

through exercises that help move energy

clude improved sleep, increased focus,

E D U CAT I O N S P O N S O R

THANK YO U

Healthcare Network of SWFL Mr. Earle K. Borman, Jr. NCH Healthcare System

FOR MAKING OUR

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

2021 SOUND MINDS VI RTUAL LUNCH EON

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COMMUNITY SPONSORS

Dr. & Mrs. Peter Boyd Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas Chabraja Mr. & Mrs. Robert Magrann

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Brown & Brown Insurance Cigna Markham, Norton, Mosteller, Wright & Company, P.A. Mr. & Mrs. Scott Burgess Radiology Regional Center, P.A

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IMPACTING THE CHILDREN of Collier County

The Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF) was established in 2000 with the vision of making a profound and sustaining difference in the lives of children in Collier County. The founders created the Naples Winter Wine Festival in order to meet NCEF’s mission statement to support programs that improve the physical, emotional and educational lives of underprivileged and at-risk children. NCEF fills a critical void for children in need as the largest single source of funding for essential services, operating in a county with no independent, tax-based, public financial support for children’s social services.

Since Inception of NCEF: • More than 275,000 underprivileged and at-risk children have been provided with the services and resources they need to excel; • Over 8 million meals have been provided to children and families in need; • 157,585 visits have taken place at the NCEF Pediatric Dental Center; • Over 34,000 pairs of glasses have been distributed to children; • Over 61,000 youth have benefited from effective and coordinated mental health services and treatment through the integrated model; • Nearly 44,000 children have entered kindergarten ready to learn through high-quality early childhood education programs; • 91,000 children have attended enriching after-school and summer programs.

To help improve the life of a child visit napleswinefestival.com or call 239.514.2239


HEALTHY LIFE WELLNESS

injury prevention, increased energy and better posture. It is also said to help balance emotions, something Lemione values in her own qigong experience. “You learn all of yourself better through qigong,” she says. “For example, anger is stored in the liver and gall bladder. Someone cuts you off in traffic and you observe where that anger goes in the body instead of yelling at the other driver.

The centuries-old practice, which translates to “energy work,”

You don’t react to situations, you observe.”

focuses on combining breathwork with movement.

It’s that observation of energy that leads to one of the biggest benefits of qigong for Getty

Lemione and her students. “It really helps with mindfulness,” she says.

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Farm-To-Table Dining on 100 Acres

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Live MusicExperience Every handcrafted drinks,Sunday! sommelier selected wineoverlooking list, certifiedpastoral fields picturesque dining grass-fed beef, organically-raised heritage breed Wattle Open for Brunch! Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday of grazing cattle. Top-rated cuisineRed from the farm’s bounty, pork, organically-grown vegetables.

handcrafted beverages, sommelier selected wine list, and Yelp «««««Vegan / Facebook ««««« and Gluten-free dishes. organically-raised meats and vegetables. Live Music Every Sunday! Reservations Required Open for Brunch! Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday Yelp ««««« / Facebook «««««

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1 e # c i o Ch

ract L* a t a for C t in SWF en m t a e Tr Thomas Quigley, M.D.

Board Certified Ophthalmologist Cataract Surgeon & Super Specialist

Emmanuel Kai-Lewis, M.D.

Board Certified Ophthalmologist Cataract & Cornea Surgeon

Michael Lewis, M.D.

Board Certified Ophthalmologist Cataract & Eyelid Surgeon

Stephen Prendiville, M.D.

Board Certified Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon

Nika Priest-Allen, M.D.

Board Certified Ophthalmologist Cataract & Glaucoma Surgeon

Duane Wiggins, M.D.

Board Certified Ophthalmologist Cataract & Refractive Surgeon

Technology leaders in eye care

and one of the nation’s leading multi-specialty ophthalmology practices, Quigley Eye Specialists has been serving Southwest Florida for more than 30 years. As the number one choice for cataract treatment in the area, we offer innovative and personalized eye care to help you achieve your best possible vision.

Our mission is to create patients for life

by providing the highest level of quality care and service to the community. We specialize in cataracts, glaucoma, cornea, retina, dry eye, bladeless eyelid surgery, routine eye care, facial plastic surgery, iLASIK, and advanced anti-aging treatments.

Denise Billings, O.D.

Debra McCracken, O.D.

James Campbell, O.D.

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Thomas Aaron Judd, O.D.

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Kacie Kreifels, O.D.

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Ben White, O.D.

Timothy McCan, O.D.

J. Michael Witherington, O.D.

Board Certified Optometric Physician

Board Certified Optometric Physician

Board Certified Optometric Physician

Board Certified Optometric Physician

Board Certified Optometric Physician

Board Certified Optometric Physician

Board Certified Optometric Physician

Board Certified Optometric Physician

Board Certified Optometric Physician

Board Certified Optometric Physician

Board Certified Optometric Physician

Board Certified Optometric Physician

CONVENIENT LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

855-734-2020 • QuigleyEye.com Connect With Us!

*AHCA Data 2018-2019


HEALTHY LIFE

5 WAY S T O S TAY FIT IN APRIL

10 Beginner and experienced yogis enjoy cruising with boat tour operator Pure Florida out to Keewaydin Island for an hour of restorative yoga, led outdoors by Yoga House Naples. All you need to bring is your mat—water and a nature tour along the way are included. $49; purefl.com

THE BEST OF PA R A D I S E , DELIVERED TO YOUR DOORSTEP

9-11 Relax and refresh over three days with the Naples Women’s Beach Retreat at Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club. Over the weekend, network with like-minded women between sunrise meditations and beachside meals. Ticket proceeds benefit Pace Center for Girls. $555; beachcountrycompany.com

18-25 Yoga Week Southwest Florida aims to emphasize community collaboration and wellness. Throughout the week, certified yoga teachers hold classes and events across the region for yogis to come and go as they please, before coming together for the Grande Finale Event at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa on the final day. $65; yogaweekswfl.com 28 April 28 kicks off Spark Golf season, a casual version of the sport with a 9- or 18-hole round of golf available to purchase each week, based on your schedule. Joining a league is free, with handicaps provided. From $24 per round; spark.golf

Visit GulfshoreLife.com to subscribe GULFSHORE LIFE

Courtesy Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club

10 Go on a naturalist-lead morning stroll along Fort Myers Beach with Beach Walks Southwest Florida to learn more about the coast, mollusks and marine life that call the Gulf home. $15 per person; eventbrite.com


WHO'S WHO IN HE ALTH SPONSORED CONTENT

W H O ’ S W H O I N H E A L T H 277


WHO'S WHO IN HEALTH

Your Smile. Our Specialty. PATRICK J. CARRIGAN DMD; EDWARD A. SCHERDER DMD, JD; AND ROBERT C. HEDGEPATH DMD BayView Dental Arts welcomes Neopolitans to become more familiar with, comfortable with and excited to experience the latest technology available. At each visit, advanced knowledge, skill and equipment are maximized so that every patient experiences optimal dental care. Utilizing cuttingedge CAD/CAM technology, Cerec crowns are fabricated here in our ceramic laboratory so that patients may leave with permanent and beautiful high-strength ceramic restorations in a single office visit! We also utilize digital radiography and Zeiss microscopes to aid in the precision of micro-dentistry performed here at BayView Dental Arts. As a recognized endodontic specialist, Dr. Patrick Carrigan utilizes advanced techniques in order for our patients to receive the very best treatment available for the most successful long-term prognosis of their teeth.

Dr. Edward Scherder would like to welcome you to BayView Dental Arts in Old Naples overlooking beautiful Naples Bay. As a prominent specialist in prosthodontics, Dr. Scherder takes great pleasure in the utilization of modern technology to promote more advanced dental treatment options. Within Dr. Robert Hedgepath’s array of expertise, he enjoys administering exceptional aesthetics and function with the use of Invisalign or crowns and veneers. From bridge work to partials and dentures, he offers the very best in dental care! Drs. Carrigan , Scherder and Hedgepath look forward to the opportunity to meet with you individually to discuss your dental health and expectations and to create the smile you have always dreamed of.

1001 10th Ave. S., Suite 218, Naples, FL 34102 (239) 434-5545 www.BayviewDentalArts.com

278

GULFSHORE LIFE

Complimentary Valet Parking

g ulf shorelife.com


WHO'S WHO IN HEALTH

LASER CATARACT SURGERY: RESTORE THE VISION OF YOUR YOUTH

Center For Sight Jon R. Berlie, M.D.; George Brinnig, M.D., PH. D.; Julie Carter, M.D.; Reena Patel, O.D. Cataract surgery must be performed with the utmost precision, and luckily, Naples is home to one of the nation’s leading ophthalmology practices, Center For Sight. Cataract & Lens Replacement Surgeons at Center For Sight use advanced laser procedures to improve efficiency and precision while painlessly removing the cataract. Cutting-edge laser technology softens and disassembles the cataract with micronlevel precision. Once the cataract is fragmented, the surgeon removes the cataract and inserts a new artificial lens in its place. Laser cataract surgery ensures the patient receives the best technique and technology available to result in minimal procedural and recovery times.

Today, patients have many lens options when considering cataract surgery. In earlier years, intraocular lenses were fixed for one distance and required the patient to wear glasses after surgery. Patients can now choose to have their natural lens replaced by an advanced intraocular lens based on their individual vision goals, which could limit - or eliminate - the need for glasses post-surgery. The most advanced intraocular lenses give patients the opportunity to return (or improve) their eyesight to a perfect 20/20! The results of laser cataract surgery speak for themselves. Schedule your cataract consultation, today.

Laser Cataract Surgery • Glaucoma Care • Retina Care • Facial Cosmetic Surgery

700 Neapolitan Way, Naples, FL 34103 (239) 310-2020

www.centerforsightnaples.net 279


WHO'S WHO IN HEALTH

ROBERT D. KLAUSNER, MD, FACS

CASTLE CONNOLLY TOP DOCTOR RECIPIENT ANNUALLY SINCE 2009

THE CENTER FOR COSMETIC SURGERY Fellowship and Ivy League Trained Double Board Certified by: American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery & American Board of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery

CALL 239-498-4968 to schedule your personalized consultation or to reserve your spot for the next COMPLIMENTARY FACIAL REJUVENATION SEMINAR!

Dr. Robert D. Klausner offers a full range of facial cosmetic and reconstructive services. Multiple nonsurgical and surgical options for state-of-the-art facial rejuvenation are offered and administered personally by Dr. Klausner. These include wrinkle-reducing skin resurfacing options and minimal-scar surgery to improve sagging skin of the face. Dr. Klausner has special expertise in nasal surgery, offering improvement in appearance and breathing. His practice includes scar improvement; ear reshaping; liposuction; and complex skin cancer reconstruction. Dr. Klausner came to Southwest Florida in 2000 with a lifelong commitment to excellence. Graduating at the top of his class from Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School in Indianapolis, he attended the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, graduating summa cum laude with honors. He was elected to Phi Beta Kappa his junior year, then completed medical school and residency at the nation’s first medical school, the University of Pennsylvania, where he had scholarly papers published. Dr. Klausner is double-board-certified in both facial plastic surgery and head and neck surgery. His training and more than 25 years of experience give Dr. Klausner in-depth understanding of both form and function of the face. Dr. Klausner applies this knowledge to ensure that the structures he works on function as well as they appear. The philosophy of Dr. Klausner’s practice is to achieve satisfaction by defining patient goals, then educate about options for treatment. These principles are combined with artistic surgical technique and customer service to achieve the desired result. 3501 Health Center Blvd., Suite 2240, Bonita Springs, FL 34135 (239) 498-4968 | (800) 481-FACE

facialdoctor.com


WHO'S WHO IN HEALTH

IGOR LEVY-REIS, M.D.

NASA MRI

Dr. Levy-Reis is board-certified in neurology and in the subspecialties of geriatric neurology, neurophysiology headache medicine and neuroimaging. His neurology training was at Northwestern University in Chicago, followed by a fellowship at the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, and then a fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. He is the author and co-author of several publications in peer-reviewed neurological journals, with contributions in journals such as New England Journal of Medicine and Neurology. He has participated in several drug trials of new neurological therapies and presented research in national and international neurological meetings. He is a member of the American Academy of Neurology, Alzheimer’s Association International Conference and American Headache Society. Dr. Levy-Reis has been practicing in Naples over the past 15 years and sees patients with a broad range of neurological diseases. He has special interest in patients with memory loss (such as that from Alzheimer’s disease) and chronic headache, particularly migraine. He is a member of the International Neurotoxin Association, with experience in treating migraine patients with botulin toxin, and he is certified by the American Board of Neurology in interpretation of nerve studies as well as electroencephalograms. He is also a reviewer for international meetings and actively involved in national studies. Recently, he was elected Fellow of the American Academy of Neurology for his valuable contributions to the Academy and to the neurology community at large.

877 111th Ave. N., Suite 1, Naples, FL 34108 (239) 594-8002

nasamri.com

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WHO'S WHO IN HEALTH

DIANE BRZEZINSKI, D.O., FACOI

1250 Pine Ridge Road, Suite 101A, Naples, FL 34108 (239) 261-9990

drbnaples.com

Dr. Diane Brzezinski is a physician specializing in internal medicine who has earned praise for her “patient-first” focus, helping patients take ownership of their health through education and a healthy lifestyle. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. B treats many chronic disease states like high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes. Dr. Brzezinski offers BioTE® hormone pellets that consistently release bio-identical estrogen and testosterone. Both men and women have found this therapy effective for increasing energy, muscle strength, mental clarity, and libido. In addition, Dr. B performs diVa™, a vaginal laser therapy that can reduce intimate challenges such as vaginal laxity, weak muscle tone, lack of lubrication, painful intercourse, and bladder leakage. Peptide Therapy treatments offered by the practice benefit the immune system, digestion, sexual health, and more. For patients struggling with their weight, Dr. Brzezinski offers physiciansupervised weight loss programs including the meal replacement-focused “cookie diet” and ProLon®, which simulates the effects of prolonged fasting. Dr. Brzezinski is a member of the Florida Osteopathic Medical Association and serves on the medical advisory committee of Bosom Buddies, a nonprofit that assists with breast cancer treatment.

JONATHAN M. FRANTZ, MD, FACS Frantz EyeCare Jonathan M. Frantz, MD, FACS, is the founder, medical director, and chief surgeon at Frantz EyeCare. Dr. Frantz, a true pioneer in the field of Ophthalmology, is one of the area's most experienced, innovative, and respected eye surgeons. As one of our country's top Bladeless Laser Cataract Surgeons and the *largest implanter of PanOptix lenses for cataract patients in the State of Florida, Dr. Frantz founded his practice on two main principles: patients always come first and our success is measured by the lives that we improve through better vision. Dr. Frantz and his team provide compassionate patient care and strive to optimize outcomes by setting the standard in vision technology. Frantz EyeCare has been serving Southwest Florida for 26 years, and has seven locations and growing. A true, multi-specialty practice, Frantz EyeCare offers comprehensive eye care and specialized vision correction including Bladeless LASIK, Bladeless Laser Cataract Surgery, eyelid surgery, and the treatment of glaucoma and retinal disease. *Alcon Surgical Laser usage data 2020

12731 New Brittany Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33907 (239) 418-0999 | bettervision.net Other locations: Cape Coral, Lehigh Acres, Punta Gorda, Naples 282

GULFSHORE LIFE

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WHO'S WHO IN HEALTH

JOSEPH FREEDMAN, M.D. Cardiac Care Group Cardiac Care Group offers state-of-the-art cardiology services to Southwest Florida. Dr. Freedman specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all cardiac disease. Dr. Freedman trained at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic, achieving five board certifications in internal medicine, cardiology, comprehensive adult ECHO, nuclear cardiology and cardiac CT. As the leading noninvasive cardiologist at Florida Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale, he helped the hospital achieve the highest level of chest pain certification. He has participated in the research trials of several leading cholesterol- lowering drugs, and he has extensive experience in pulmonary hypertension. Dr. Freedman has spoken on national radio programs and has appeared on local news to highlight the latest in cardiovascular care, including venous ultrasound and ablation techniques that increase circulation and prevent lower extremity thrombosis. Dr. Freedman prides himself on being an advocate for the patient, and he works carefully with leading local and national experts to make sure patients receive the best specialty procedural care possible.

South Cape Business Center 3208 Chiquita Blvd. S., Suite 110, Cape Coral, FL 33914 (239) 574-8463 | flccg.com

JAMES J. GUERRA, M.D. Collier Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center Dr. Guerra is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist. He completed his orthopaedic residency at the University of Pennsylvania, as well as an additional year of fellowship training in sports medicine and arthroscopic surgery with internationally known sports medicine expert James R. Andrews, M.D. Dr. Guerra is a specialist in complex shoulder and knee problems and currently serves as Head Team Physician for Florida Gulf Coast University, Community School and First Baptist Academy. Previously, Dr. Guerra served as Team Physician for the Baltimore Orioles (MLB) and the Florida Panthers (NHL). Dr. Guerra is a leading innovator in minimally invasive surgery, serving as the Medical Director for Arthrex, the world’s preeminent arthroscopy company. He teaches surgeons from around the world in advanced techniques, has authored more than 30 publications, and has lectured at national and international meetings. This unique experience allows Dr. Guerra to remain at the forefront of his field and bring cutting-edge medical developments to his patients.

1706 Medical Blvd., Suite 201, Naples, FL 34110

(239) 593-3500 colliersportsmedicine.com

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LINDITA HOBDARI, M.D. Hobdari Family Health Lindita Hobdari MD, is a Family Health Specialist who served the Naples and Estero Area since 2006. Dr Hobdari has lead a team of all female practitioners since April 2012 . The staff at Hobdari Family Health continues to provide high quality medical care for all ages, including children, adolescents, adults and geriatric population. They are readily accessible and offer same day appointments and walk-ins. Dr Hobdari’s care emphasizes the prevention of illness before it starts. Therefore she uses a multidisciplinary approach where she integrates traditional and holistic medicine to ensure the best for her patients.

Back row: Anisa Jani, PA-C, Holly Rothweiler, PA-C, Natalia Bossie, PA-C, Genesis Flanagan, APRN Front row: Lindita Hobdari, M.D., Yanis Alfonso, M.D.

1855 Veterans Park Drive, Suite 201, Naples, FL 34109 (239) 260-1033

hobdarihealth.com

EDWARD HUMBERT, D.O., MS Joint Implant Surgeons of Florida Dr. Humbert is one of the country’s most experienced jointreplacement surgeons. He specializes in knee and hip replacement, and is board-certified through the AOBOS. He has been ranked as the No. 1 volume surgeon in Florida for hip and knee replacement (Data, AHCA). Increased surgical volume has been proven to improve patient outcomes and reduce complication rates in total joint replacement. He has dedicated his practice to providing safe, top-quality hip and knee replacements. He instructs at orthopedic learning centers and specializes in the latest minimally-invasive techniques, custom joint replacement, partial knee replacement and complex revision surgery of the hip and knee. Dr. Humbert obtained a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Florida and a master’s in biomedical engineering from the University of Akron. After medical school and orthopedic residency at Ohio University, he completed a fellowship in total joint replacement. When it comes to hip and knee replacement, Dr. Humbert truly is “The Best Surgeon in the Joint.”

7331 College Parkway, Suite 300, Fort Myers, FL 33907 (239) 337-2003

jointimplant.com

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WHO'S WHO IN HEALTH

PAUL M. GARDNER, M.D., FACS; LEOPOLDO M. BACCARO, M.D. Naples Plastic Surgery

One visit to Naples Plastic Surgery formerly Gardner Plastic Surgery is all that’s needed to discover the steadfast commitment to patient service shown by our Board Certified Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Paul M. Gardner and Dr. Leopoldo M. Baccaro. Both surgeons and staff realize that there are many choices when it comes to picking a plastic surgery practice, so they go out of their way to provide the best experience possible. Drs. Gardner and Baccaro strive to make each patient feel like the only patient in the practice throughout the entire process—from their first consult to their final postoperative appointment. The surgical expertise exhibited by Dr. Gardner and Dr. Baccaro allows them to help patients attain renewed confidence in their appearance. Over the years, numerous face-lift, rhinoplasty, breast-lift and augmentation, tummy tuck, liposuction and other cosmetic surgery patients have benefited from the attentive care and superlative surgical skills found at Naples Plastic Surgery. Offering a full array of cosmetic surgery options, we recently expanded the practice with Dr. Jason Crespo to meet reconstructive and hand surgery needs. The surgeons and staff at Naples Plastic Surgery pride themselves on attention to detail. Begin the process of transforming your image by consulting with Dr. Paul M. Gardner or Dr. Leopoldo M. Baccaro today.

BLANE MILTON CRANDALL, M.D. Dr. Crandall has joined the ranks of Front Line Covid-19 Critical Care Alliance for Prophylaxis and Treatment for Covid-19. Crandall prescribed Hydrox ychloroquine with Zinc and Ivermectin to more than 4,000 patients patients since the pandemic began in March 2020. He has seen how the early treatment of Covid symptoms has saved lives and given immeasurable comfort to those being treated with preventive therapy. While waiting to be vaccinated our patients are living their lives and working safely while protecting themselves and others. Dr. Crandall has been a Castle Connolly Top Doctor for the past 16 years. “What we need in the face of this pandemic is prevention and early treatment, not more testing.” – Blane Crandall, MD. Visit www.flccc.net for more up to date information about Covid-19

1660 Medical Blvd., Suite 101, Naples, FL 34110 (239) 596-2300

www.drblanecrandall.com

1250 Pine Ridge Road, Suite 101C, Naples, FL 34108 (239) 566-2611

www.naplesps.com

DR. STEPHEN HELGEMO; DR. IVAN OLARTE Florida Hand Center

What makes us different? The Florida Hand Center is a group of highly skilled medical professionals dedicated to providing the most advanced treatments of common hand and arm problems. We are experts in non-surgical care and will use this method for most problems. When surgery becomes necessary, we focus on minimally invasive procedures that allow quicker healing times with less discomfort. We always look for the most cost-effective and efficient treatments. We deliver world class care and successfully treat thousands of patients each year, giving them back the use and function of their hands and arms.

Locations in Port Charlotte & Fort Myers Main Office: 941-625-6547 floridahandcenter.com 285


WHO'S WHO IN HEALTH

CHERYL L. MALICK, D.M.D. Dental Excellence

Dr. Cheryl L. Malick, a Naples resident since 1985, celebrates 18 years of serving our community at Dental Excellence, her state of-theart dental office. Dr. Malick is an honors graduate of the University of Florida Department of Biomedical Engineering, and a research honors graduate from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. She offers general and cosmetic dentistry services, including veneers, crowns, dentures, partials, implant restorations, fillings, whitening, dental cleanings, digital impressions and xrays, and CariVu caries detection. We are pleased to be serving the Naples area and look forward to welcoming you to Dental Excellence, located near the corner of Airport Road North and Vanderbilt Beach Road. Call us today to schedule your complimentary consultation.

7955 Airport-Pulling Road N., Suite 201, Naples, FL 34109 (239) 596-3434

naplesdentalexcellence.com

JAMES MITCHELL, D.D.S.; YOLANDA MITCHELL, D.D.S.; JOSEPH MITCHELL, D.D.S.; HELEN MAY, D.D.S. Mitchell Dentistry

Building trust and treating each patient as a special individual has always been the foundation of our family dentistry practice. For more than 30 years, we have provided the latest state-of-the-art technology to give you the smile you have always dreamed of. Along with our dedicated, caring team, we offer general, cosmetic and restorative dentistry in a safe, inviting atmosphere. Call Mitchell Dentistry today to learn more about how we make your smile our top priority.

32 Barkley Circle Fort Myers, FL 33907 (239) 939-5556

mitchelldentist.com

CHRISTINE PEACOCK, M.A., CCC-A

CYNDI YAG-HOWARD, M.D., FAAD

Naples Audiology & Hearing Center

Yag-Howard Dermatology and Aesthetic Center

Christine Peacock is the audiologist and owner of Naples Audiology & Hearing Center. She is originally from the Chicagoland area. She attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Audiology. Christine and her staff understand that hearing loss affects each person differently. They are committed to providing a comprehensive communication solution personalized to every patient’s unique hearing needs. With over 19 years of experience, you'll receive exceptional and genuine care from Christine and her staff.

1250 Tamiami Trail N Ste 110, Naples, FL 34102 (239) 434-2434

Naples Daily News Best Of 2018, 2019, 2020

www.NaplesHearingCenter.com

286

C y nd i Ya g-How a r d , M D, FA AD, is a board-certified der m at olog i st w it h over 2 0 y e a r s o f e x p er i en c e specia lizing in aesthetics a nd sk in ca ncer surger y. Nationally-renowned for her published articles, lectures, innovation and leadership within her field, she and her team of John DeNigris, MD, and Traci Long, PA, use their artistic eyes and gentle touch to bring out the natural, rejuvenated look their aesthetic patients desire and to minimize surgical scars for best cosmetic outcomes. Yag-Howard Dermatology and Aesthetic Center offers state-of-the-art medical and surgical dermatology, as well as a full range of aesthetic services in a highly professional, contemporary and friendly environment. Experience the difference personalized care provides.

GULFSHORE LIFE

1000 Goodlette Road North #100 Naples, FL 34102 (239) 529.DERM (3376)

yhderm.com

g ulf shorelife.com


Carolyn Langford, DO, FACOS Urologic Surgeon Dr. Carolyn Langford is one of the top urologists in the area specializing in female urology, voiding dysfunction and pelvic floor reconstruction. As a leading expert in Florida, Dr. Carolyn Langford has been treating patients with Sacral Neuromodulation therapy for 20 years. Dr. Carolyn Langford is a Board Certified Urologist who has completed a fellowship in Female Urology, Voiding Dysfunction and Pelvic Floor Reconstruction at the Cleveland Clinic Florida and has performed thousands of pelvic floor procedures in Lee County over the past 13 years. Dr. Carolyn Langford is an Axonics® Center of Excellence, a recognition for her expertise in Axonics Therapy. Her commitment to patient education and providing exemplary care to achieve optimal clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Are you tired of your bladder controlling your life? Are constant trips to the restroom affecting your quality of life? With Dr. Carolyn Langford, you no longer need to suffer in silence! Offering Axonics Therapy, a long-lasting solution that may help regain control of your bladder, this therapy is clinically proven to treat overactive bladder symptoms, urinary retention and fecal incontinence.

“”

With Axonics Therapy, I don’t have to worry about leaks and its nice to not have to wear pads anymore.

It’s time to regain control! Get started today, call 239-221-0992 Currently enrolling patients for the ARTISTRY Study DR. CAROLYN LANGFORD UROLOGIC SOLUTIONS 9400 Gladiolus Drive, Suite 30, Fort Myers, Florida 33908 (next door to Lakes Park Library)

drcarolynlangford.com Important Safety Information: Implantation and use of the Axonics System incurs risk beyond those normally associated with surgery, some of which may necessitate surgical intervention. Results and experiences may vary and are unique to each patient. No promise or guarantee is made about specific results or experiences. For more information about safety and potential risks, go to: www.axonics.com/isi Caution: Federal law (USA) restricts this device to sale and use by, or on the order of, a physician. © 2021 Axonics Modulation Technologies, Inc.

Patient

“”

I’ve been to 20 different urologists, and Dr. Langford was the only one who solved my issue. Patient



NO _ 5 0 6

TASTE OF THE GULF

Baleen’s lobster bisque tastes as good as it looks, with a smooth texture and a hint of sherr y that lingers on the palate.

Brian Tietz

p_ 292

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Raise a Glass: T he Luminar y’s Grand Light Parade

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Dining Guide: 150 -Plus Essential Restaurants

0 4 _ 2 0 21


RAISE A GLASS

LIGHTBULB MOMENT

TASTE OF THE GULF

Luminary Hotel’s new rooftop bar pays homage to a Fort Myers legend with its Grand Light Parade cocktail. By Chelle Koster Walton Photography by Nick Shirghio

The rooftop view from the Beacon

with new cocktails sometimes

decade. After hunkering down in

Social Drinkery at Fort Myers’

fail and lead to tweaks. “Trial and

a Marriott hotel on St. Thomas in

new Luminary Hotel & Co. deliv-

error makes you better,” he says.

2017 during Hurricane Maria (with

ers an explosive, visual festival, as

His Grand Light Parade cocktail

a pregnant wife, a one-year-old

it overlooks downtown and the

started with the blackcurrant

daughter, two dogs, and 100 resort

Caloosahatchee River.

syrup he had used for a failed

guests), Young moved to Calgary,

A cocktail named Grand Light

cocktail, mixed with Young ’s

Alberta, where he ran several bars

Parade couldn’t be more apropos.

desire to make “a good spicy

until he was furloughed due to the

The Luminary takes its cues from

margarita” with novel appeal.

pandemic. The move led him back

Fort Myers’ most luminous his-

He coated the bottom of a rocks

to the Marriott group and down to

torical figure—light bulb inventor

glass with the syrup, then shook

Southwest Florida.

Thomas A. Edison. In keeping with

up the rest of the ingredients,

When creating the already much-

the theme, Beacon lights up down-

and topped it off for a multilayer

buzzed-about cocktail lineup at the

town’s nightlife. Its Grand Light

effect. The colors worked, and so

Beacon, Young says he wanted the

Parade cocktail (named for the

did the flavor. His house-mixed

menu to showcase several different

February Edison Festival of Light)

honey Sriracha syrup with 100%

spirits and be colorful.

pays homage, as do most aspects of

agave tequila and fresh-squeezed

The Grand Light Parade is a

Luminary nomenclature, to local

lime juice creates a sweet-tart-fi-

shining example. He notes that it’s

history and tradition. “The drink

ery interplay.

especially suited for sunset drinks,

was light and colorful,” Beacon

Young, who recently moved to

sitting atop the 12th-floor perch,

general manager Zachary Young

Fort Myers from Canada, knows

catching the afternoon breeze

explains. “I wanted to pay a subtle

his way around tropical drinks.

from comfy living room-like spaces

homage to Edison.”

He and his wife worked the

and high-top tables, surrounded by

And as is common with most

hospitality business in the U.S.

the bar’s typically lively clientele.

tinkering, Young’s experiments

Virgin Islands for more than a

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GULFSHORE LIFE

We’re inclined to agree.

g ulf shorelife.com


G R A N D LIG HT PAR ADE • 2 ounces Corazón Blanco Tequila • ¼ ounce Monin Blackcurrant Syrup • ½ ounce fresh lime juice • ½ ounce honey Sriracha syrup

1. Cover bottom of rocks glass with layer of blackcurrant syrup. Fill with ice. 2. In shaker with big scoop of ice, pour tequila, lime juice and honey Sriracha.

To make syrup: Heat 1 cup of water to about 190 degrees (do not let it come to a boil), and add 1 cup of honey. Stir until the solution is dissolved and add 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce. Refrigerate for future use.

3. Shake for 10 seconds then strain contents into rocks glass. Garnish with half a lime wheel.

TA S T E O F T H E G U L F

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TA S T E O F T H E G U L F

DINING GUIDE The Dining Guide is crafted each month based on editorial discretion, as well as inclusion of restaurants that advertise regularly (denoted by an asterisk). All phone numbers are area code (239) unless specified. Please email diningout@gulfshorelife.com to report changes in a restaurant’s location, prices or menu. As conditions are constantly changing during the COVID-19 pandemic, we recommend you contact the restaurants for the latest information.

DINING GUIDE KEY:

b Brunch o Outside Dining p Pet-Friendly v Valet w Water Views

Partake in the dim sum tradition at Ginger Bistro. The restaurant, with locations in Fort Erik Kellar

Myers and Cape Coral, is known for its authentic Chinese dishes and Cantonese barbecue. .

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A U T H E N T I C

I N D I A N

C U I S I N E

BEST RATED INDIAN RESTAURANT IN NAPLES SCAN QR CODE TO SEE OUR MENU

975 Pine Ridge Road, Naples, Florida 34108 | Phone: (239) 591-5156 email: info@leindya.com | www.leindya.com


Ridgway Bar & Grill

1300 Third St. S., 262-5500. ridgwaybarandgrill.com. A quintessential Old Naples restaurant with creative American fare. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

op

Sea Salt

A Table Apart, a fan favorite in Bonita Springs, beautifully blends flavors from around the world with classic French technique.

1186 Third St. S., 434-7258. seasaltnaples.com. A local favorite for sophisticated seafood and its accompaniments. Monthly wine dinners and other events are not to be missed. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

opv

FIFTH AVENUE SOUTH Ario

400 S. Collier Blvd., 394-2511. jwmarriottmarcoisland.com. This contemporary fine dining restaurant at the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort has exciting culinary offerings, including an impressive bar program. $$$$ STEAK

ov

The Oyster Society

599 S. Collier Blvd., 394-3474. theoystersociety.com. With a plethora of bivalves to choose from (more than eight daily), plus a raw bar, sushi and fresh catches, this chic Art Deco-style eatery won’t disappoint. $$$$ SEAFOOD

o

Sale e Pepe

480 S. Collier Blvd., 393-1600. sale-e-pepe.com. A long-standing gem with an oceanfront patio in the Marco Beach Ocean Resort, it’s known for its

294

bovw NAPLES

THIRD STREET SOUTH Barbatella

1290 Third St. S., 263-1955. barbatellanaples.com. Casual Italian cuisine from the people behind Sea Salt. Meet up at the trendy wine bar or on the relaxed patio. $$$ ITALIAN

op

The Bevy

360 12th Ave. S., 228-4220. naplesbevy.com. Enjoy premium craft cocktails and varied influences at this Third Street locale. The open-air setup with a retractable roof is nothing short of impressive, too. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

op

GULFSHORE LIFE

Campiello/The Club Room

1177 Third St. S., 435-1166. campiellonaples.com. A favorite for its contemporary Italian cuisine and courtyard. Last year, The Club Room, a restaurant within, launched with an its own menu, drinks and live music most nights. $$$$ ITALIAN

opv

D'Amico's The Continental

1205 Third St. S., 659-0007. damicoscontinental.com. Experience top-quality cuts of steak from around the globe that are enhanced by stylish modern decor, private cabanas and a “cocktail lab.” $$$$ STEAK

opv

Jane's Cafe on 3rd

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 on the sunny patio. $$ CASUAL

Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro

865 Fifth Ave. S., 594-5557. bhabhabistro.com. Find exquisite Persian cuisine in this recently refreshed jewel box of a dining room. Choose from a wide variety of authentic fare, plus unique twists to vegetables, lamb, chicken, beef and more. $$$$ MIDDLE EASTERN

o

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

op

Chops City Grill

837 Fifth Ave. S., 262-4677. chopscitygrill.com. Fine steaks are served at this elegant, baroque-inspired steakhouse that was renovated in 2019. $$$$ STEAK

opv

Brian Tietz

MARCO ISL AND

authentic Italian dishes with a haute twist and a formidable wine cellar. $$$$ ITALIAN

bopv g ulf shorelife.com


Chef-Led Independent Restaurants WE INVITE YOU TO JOIN US AT ANY OF OUR LOCATIONS FOR AN EXCEPTIONAL CULINARY EXPERIENCE.

®

1186 3RD ST S, NAPLES, FL 34102 (239) 434-7258 SEASALTNAPLES.COM

1290 3RD ST S, NAPLES, FL 34102 (239) 263-1955 BARBATELLANAPLES.COM

2110 9TH ST N, NAPLES, FL 34103 (239) 529-2819 DORONANAPLES.COM

90 9TH ST N, NAPLES, FL 34102 239-331-4325 GRAPPINONAPLES.COM


TASTE OF THE GULF

DINING GUIDE

The French Brasserie Rustique

365 Fifth Ave. S., 315-4019. thefrenchnaples.com. From celebrated local chef Vincenzo Betulia, expect exquisite escargot and steak tartare in a buzzworthy atmosphere. $$$ FRENCH

opv

Hobnob Kitchen & Bar

720 Fifth Ave. S., Unit 101, 580-0070. hobnobnaples.com. Updated takes on American cuisine in a cool, contemporary dining room. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

Ocean Prime

699 Fifth Ave. S., 430-0404. ocean-prime.com. National restaurateur Cameron Mitchell presents an upscale, from-

scratch kitchen mixing surf and turf, an elegant dining room and highly attentive service. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

v

Osteria Tulia/Bar Tulia

466 Fifth Ave. S., 213-2073. osteriatulia.com. Expect Sicilian-inspired dishes, arguably some of the best in Naples, served in a rustic-chic setting or the Bar Tulia gastropub, which has unbeatable craft cocktails. $$$ ITALIAN

opv

Pazzo! Cucina Italiana

853 Fifth Ave. S., 434-8494. pazzoitaliancafe.com. Beautiful presentations and twists on Italian favorites. $$$$ ITALIAN

opv

Pinchers*

Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Seafood from local fishermen in a casual and family-friendly setting. $$$ SEAFOOD

ow

Riverwalk*

1200 Fifth Ave. S., 263-2734. riverwalktincity.com. This is a favorite in Tin City, with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the river. Open for lunch, Sunday brunch and dinner. $$$ SEAFOOD

ow

Sails Restaurant

301 Fifth Ave. S., 360-2000. sailsrestaurants.com. This refined eatery and raw bar

recently lured chef Eli Kaimeh, who has multiple Michelin stars to his name, to further elevate its large selection of international fish, unusual crudos and impeccable service. A spectacular Sunday champagne brunch is a destination in itself.

$$$$ SEAFOOD

opvb Sushi Thai

Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. sushithaitoo.com. Large selection of sushi and Thai dishes. $$$ ASIAN

opv

Truluck's

698 Fourth Ave. S., 530-3131. trulucks.com. Known for stone crabs brought in from local boats, the fine dining locale also touts seafood from the Gulf and beyond. $$$$ SEAFOOD

ov Some of the dishes at the chic Osteria Tulia come from chef Vincenzo Betulia’s family cookbook, including the off-menu cannoli.

Veranda E

290 Fifth Ave. S., 659-3466. hotelescalante.com. A courtyard setting and menu with both Asian and French influences in the Hotel Escalante.

$$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

op

DOWNTOWN NAPLES The Claw Bar

221 Ninth St. S., 231-3912. theclawbar.com. Expect Southern charm in spades, the best oysters (hot and cold), exquisite seafood masterpieces and cocktails with flair. $$$$ SEAFOOD

ov

90 9th St N., 331-4325. grappinonaples.com. New from the Aielli Group, this Italian eatery offers a fine selection of charcuterie and bruschetta as well

296

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Erik Kellar

Grappino



Kareem’s Lebanese Kitchen

4270 Tamiami Trail E., 315-4167. kareemskitchen.com. Locals rave about the authentic seven types of hummus and entrees like roasted chicken with za’atarspiced potatoes. $$$ MIDDLE EASTERN

o

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; served with craft brews in a fun atmosphere. $$ ITALIAN

op ples—from authentic classics to modern creations.

as build-your-own pasta dishes and pizzas. $$$ ITALIAN

op

The Lake Park Diner

944 Seventh Ave N., 228-6351. thelakeparkdiner.com. Grab and go or sit on the outdoor patio. From the team behind The Bevy, this casual spot serves healthy, organic fare with many vegan options, plus diner classics including milkshakes. $$ MODERN AMERICAN

849 Seventh Ave S., 231-4553. seventhsouth.com. Adam Nardis, the former executive chef of M Waterfront Grille, and Barry Larkin, the former bar manager of 7th Avenue Social, teamed up to launch this new eatery with a focus on seasonal ingredients that’s the best restaurant to have launched in the past year. $$$ AMERICAN

298

600 Goodlette-Frank Road N. Suite 101, 228-5973. theroosternaples.com. A breakfast and lunch spot with elaborate dishes, like braised short ribs over grits with salsa verde. Dinner is served Wednesday through Friday in season. $$ CASUAL

op

BAYFRONT Stoney's Steakhouse

op

Seventh South Craft Food + Drink

The Rooster Food + Drink

03 Bayfront Place, 435-9353. stoneyssteakhouse.com. Formerly K-Prime Steakhouse, this stately dining room features prime cuts and great herb-crusted prime rib. Slated to reopen soon. $$$$ STEAK

CRAYTON COVE Bleu Provence

1234 Eighth St. S., 261-8239. bleuprovencenaples.com. It channels the south of France in Old Naples with amazing food and a stunning wine list. It’s

GULFSHORE LIFE

consistently one of the Gulfshore’s best restaurants. $$$$ FRENCH

opv

Chez Boët

755 12th Ave. S., 643-6177. chezboetnaples.com. French staples with a personal touch from the husband-wife owners, plus a full bar. $$$$ FRENCH

opw

The Dock at Crayton Cove*

845 12th Ave. S., 263-9940. dockcraytoncove.com. A laidback spot for Florida seafood on Naples Bay. $$$ SEAFOOD

opw

EAST NAPLES 21 Spices by Chef Asif

4270 Tamiami Trail E. #21, 9198830. 21spicesdining.com. No average curry house (but you can get great chicken tikka masala). It features an award-winning chef and a full bar. $$$ INDIAN

op

Rumba Cuban Café

1265 Airport-Pulling Road S., 659-2996. rumbacuban cafe.com. Classic Cuban cuisine with fun twists and attentive service. $$$ LATIN AMERICAN

o

Texas Tony’s*

4519 Tamiami Trail E., 732-8392. texastonys.com. Ribs, brisket and more are complemented by a large selection of beer at this eatery. $$ BARBECUE

o

Three60 Market

2891 Bayview Drive, Naples, 732-7331. three60market.com. A breakfast and lunch cafe with gourmet flair and an extensive wine shop that offers dinner carryout specials. $$ MODERN AMERICAN

opw

MIDTOWN Alexander’s Restaurant

4077 Tamiami Trail N., 262-4999. alexandersnaples.com. The menus are filled with seafood and tastes from around the world, presented in a modern

g ulf shorelife.com

Vanessa Rogers

At Barbatella on Third Street South, you’ll find some of the best Italian food in Na-


TASTE OF THE GULF

DINING GUIDE cafe and lush garden atmosphere. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

op

Andre’s Steakhouse

Upscale-casual steakhouse from the owners with a delightfully diverse menu. $$$$ STEAK

opb

2800 Tamiami Trail N., 2635851. If you’re a fan of Peter Luger, opt for this tiny joint founded by one of its former chefs. $$$$ STEAK

Escargot 41

Cibao Grille

op

op

814 Neapolitan Way, 434-6653. cibaogrille.com. Caribbean dishes from the owners’ native Dominican Republic mix with American classics. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

op

Dorona

2110 Tamiami Trail N., 5292819. doronanaples.com.

2222. foodandthought.com. An organic grocer and counter-service cafe with raw and vegan options. $ VEGETARIAN

op

4339 Tamiami Trail N., 7935000. escargot41.com. This traditional French restaurant features a page of escargot specials alone, plus a large wine list. $$$ FRENCH

Fujiyama

Fernández the Bull

FUSE Global Cuisine/ FUSE BBQ

3375 Pine Ridge Road, Unit 101, 653-9097; 1201 Piper Blvd. Unit 10, 254-9855. fernandezthebull. com. Great, authentic Cuban dishes. $$ LATIN AMERICAN

op Food & Thought

2132 Tamiami Trail N., 213-

2555 Tamiami Trail N., 261-4332. naplesfujiyama.com. Japanese master chefs prepare dinners with flair at your hibachi table. $$$ ASIAN

o

2500 Tamiami Trail N. #115, 455-4585. fuseglobalcuisine. com. Cuisines from around the world at the fine dining Fuse; insanely good barbecue next door. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

op

Harold’s Place

2555 Tamiami Trail N., 263-7254. naplesharoldsplace. com. This chickee bar serves an award-winning charbroiled burger. $ CASUAL

op

Hogfish Harry’s

600 Neapolitan Way, 776-7623. hogfishharrys.com. From team most recently behind 7th Avenue Social, expect an airy island feel with a streamlined menu that is following a commitment to sourcing 90% of it from local fishermen. $$$ SEAFOOD

o

Hyde N Chic

923 Creech Rd., 404-3065, hydenchicrestaurant.com. An evening spent in chef Andy Hyde’s artfully appointed dining

NOW OPEN WATERFRONT DINING

LUNCH & DINNER DAILY, SUNDAY BRUNCH

1300 HENDRY ST. FORT MYERS, FL 33901 239.314.3856

OXBOWFORTMYERS.COM


TASTE OF THE GULF

DINING GUIDE

room with him personally guiding you through his eclectic, inspired tasting menus is an inimitable experience in fine dining. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

o

Jimmy P’s Charred

1833 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, 643-2427; 25301 Tamiami Trail S., Bonita Springs, 390-0301. jimmypscharred.com. An intimate, casual steakhouse specializing in wagyu beef from Naples’ longtime trusted butcher. $$$$ STEAK

o

Lamoraga Restaurant 3936 Tamiami Trail N., 3313669, lamoragarestaurant.com. Contemporary upscale twists on Spanish dishes, plus other small plates. $$$$ SPANISH

opv

The Local 5323 Airport-Pulling Road, 596-3276. thelocalnaples.com. Locally sourced, healthy cuisine.

Martin Fierro 13040 Livingston Road, 3004777. martinfierrorestaurant. com. Authentic Argentinian and Uruguayan parrillada, with grass-fed beef and tango music. $$$ LATIN AMERICAN

o

Moura Bistro

3369 Pine Ridge Road, 7388883. mourabistro.com. A tiny spot with flavorful selections of Lebanese fare, like falafel, tabbouleh, shawarma and kebabs. $$$ MIDDLE EASTERN

o

Shula’s Steak House

430-4999. shulasnaples. com. Expect classic steakhouse fare from Hall-ofFame Coach Don Shula. $$$$ STEAK

Swan River Seafood and Fish Market

3741 Tamiami Trail N., 4037000. swanriverseafood. com. Find Cape Cod-style seafood, and a market with a fresh catches, Angus beef, wine and more.

$$$ SEAFOOD

o

USS Nemo

3745 Tamiami Trail N., 2616366. ussnemorestaurant. com. Masterful creations using fresh seafood from a classically trained chef who

is among the best in Southwest Florida. $$$ SEAFOOD

o

THE VILLAGE SHOPS ON VENETIAN BAY Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar

4270 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 6495552. baysideseafood grillandbar.com. Here, you’ll find more than 200 feet of waterfront dining, inside and out. Enjoy live music at the deck bar. $$$$ SEAFOOD

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M Waterfront Grille

4300 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 2634421. mwaterfrontgrille.com. Organic meat, seafood and produce served in the main dining room with bay views, plus a full bar and front terrace. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

ovwb Blackened grouper served over a truffle-risotto is a delight at La Playa Beach Resort’s fine dining spot Baleen, where every seat comes with a beach view.

MiraMare Ristorante

4236 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 430-6273. miramarenaples. com. Come for the waterfront patio, stay for large portions of calamari and chicken francese. $$$ ITALIAN

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T-Michaels Steak and Lobster House

4050 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., 2610622. t-michaels.com. Steakhouse dining on the waterfront, featuring USDA prime meats and Maine lobster. $$$$ STEAK

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WATERSIDE SHOPS 5375 Tamiami Trail N. Suite 15, 431-4580. truefoodkitchen.com. The majority of the menu caters to vegetarians, but it’s a perfect place for flexitarians, too. $$$ VEGETARIAN

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GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Brian Tietz

True Food Kitchen


NORTH NAPLES Baleen

9891 Gulf Shore Drive, 5985707. laplayaresort.com. A beachfront wraparound terrace sets the stage for the creative cuisine at the LaPlaya resort. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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The Bay House/The Claw Bar at Tierney’s Tavern

799 Walkerbilt Road, 591-3837. bayhousenaples.com. Enjoy the Southern-inspired menus with panoramic views of a mangrove-lined waterway, or the rustic tavern and bar with live music every night. $$$$ SEAFOOD

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Bella Mia Italian Cafe

808 Wiggins Pass Road, 2503310. bellamiaitaliancafe.com. A paean to the art of European coffee and pastries, there is also a gourmet menu from acclaimed chef David Rashty, with Italian classics as well as seasonal fare such as keto lasagna with zucchini sheets and butternut squash soup with spiced apple crème fraiche. $$ ITALIAN

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Black Forest Restaurant

Immokalee Road, 592-4784. blackforestnaples.com. Classic German and Austrian dishes in an intimate setting in the Green Tree Plaza. $$$ EASTERN EUROPEAN

Bone Hook Brewing Co.

1514 Immokalee Road, 631-

8522. bonehookbrewing.com. This well-respected microbrewery now has a taproom with a full kitchen, table service and grub to match. $$ BAR BITES

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Café Gourmand

9853 Tamiami Trail N., 260-7109. cafegourmand.net. Try the best selection of crepes in Naples at this quaint spot. Tuesday-Sunday, white tablecloths come out at night for formal dinner service. $$ FRENCH

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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

HHHHI

The Crust

8004 Trail Blvd., 244-8488. thecrustpizza.net. With a huge bar and games on TV, it’s one of Naples’ most popular pizza joints, specializing in thin-crust, shareable pies cut into bitesize squares, plus salads and subs. $$ ITALIAN

DaRuMa Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Lounge*

241 Center St. N., 591-1200. darumarestaurant.com. Traditional service or Teppan-style tableside cooking. Teriyaki steak, filet mignon, chicken, seafood, tempura and sushi.

$$$$ ASIAN

Photo courtesy of Maxwell Mackenzie

Yelp / TripAdvisor

Photo: Jonathon Hunt

WATERFRONT PARADISE

Tarpon Lodge and Restaurant offers a tranquil getaway steeped in “Old Florida” tradition. Famous for its acclaimed dining, whispering Gulf breezes, and spectacular nightly sunset shows. TARPONLODGE.COM 13771 WATERFRONT DR PINE ISLAND, FL 239-283-3999

COME BY CAR OR BOAT: N 26.39.562 W 82.9.180


Deep Lagoon Seafood & Fish Market*

10395 Tamiami Trail N., 631-6266. deeplagoon.com. At this fresh concept from the family behind Pinchers, there’s an extensive seafood market. $$$ SEAFOOD

ow Dusk

280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 598-6644. ritzcarlton.com. Known for some of the most intriguing sushi around, this lounge in The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, is full of dark corners and couches, plus a patio overlooking the Gulf. $$$$ ASIAN

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Grain De Café

8803 Tamiami Trail N., 594-

8081. frenchcafenaples.com. Waiting in the often-long line is worth it for the freshest pain au chocolat, quiches and crepes. $$ FRENCH

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The Grill

280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 598-6644. ritzcarlton.com. This steakhouse in The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, evokes the ambience of an elegant private club. $$$$ STEAK

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Komoon Thai Sushi & Ceviche

1575 Pine Ridge Road #9; 1514 Immokalee Road; 3300 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. 234-2442. komoonthai.com. A

fun mix of Thai, Japanese and Peruvian fare. $$ ASIAN

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Namba

8847 Tamiami Trail N., 5924992. nambanaples.com. This Japanese 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. Order huge portions of Parmesans, meatballs and lasagna. $$$ ITALIAN

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The Turtle Club

Upscale casual beachfront restaurant offering coastal cuisine. $$$$ SEAFOOD

9225 Gulf Shore Drive, 5926557. turtleclubnaples.com.

Zen Asian BBQ

10823 Tamiami Trail N., 2607037. eatatzen.com. Pan-Asian fusion joint with sushi, ramen, bar bites and Korean barbecue. $$$ ASIAN

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MERCATO The Hampton Social

9114 Strada Place, 202-2038. thehamptonsocial.com. A lofty Chicago-export with a chic, rosé-all-day bar scene complemented by great seafood. $$$ SEAFOOD

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Authentic Lebanese Cuisine VOTED BY THE GULFSHORE LIFE READERS • BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT • BEST MEDITERRANEAN • BEST KEPT SECRET RESTAURANT • BEST TAPAS RESTAURANT

DINE IN OR TAKE OUT, CALL TODAY FOR RESERVATIONS OR TO PLACE YOUR ORDER.

(239) 738-8883

3369 Pine Ridge Road Naples, FL 34109 www.MouraBistro.com Facebook/Moura.bistro

TAKE OUT AVAILABLE!

DAILY SPECIALS | FULL BAR

OPEN DAILY 11am - 10pm


TASTE OF THE GULF

DINING GUIDE Rocco’s Tacos

9123 Strada Place, 500-8226. roccostacos.com/naples. It’s a perpetual party at this lively joint which serves more than 400 tequilas.

732-8226; 10952 Eagle Village Drive, Fort Myers, 330-8226. tacosandtequilanaples.com. Tacos with lots of clever spins, plus margaritas aplenty. $$ MEXICAN

$$$ MEXICAN

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THE PAVILION

GALLERIA SHOPPES AT VANDERBILT

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KC American Bistro

885 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 566-2371. kcamericanbistro. com. Seasonal, regional American cuisine in a casually elegant setting from chef Keith Casey. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Alpine Restaurant

2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 325-9499. alpineofnaples.com. The best of German, Slovak, Czech, Polish and Hungarian cuisines. $$$ EASTERN EUROPEAN

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Tacos & Tequila Cantina

8971 Tamiami Trail N., 254-8226; 4834 Davis Blvd.,

The Cave Bistro & Wine Bar

2343 Vanderbilt Beach

Road, 513-0095. naples winecollection.com. An ode to Burgundy’s cellars, complete with continental small plates. $$$ BAR BITES

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Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza

2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, 631-6844. mistero1. com. “Extraordinary” isn’t hyperbole; try the star pizza for proof. $$ ITALIAN

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BONITA SPRINGS Angelina’s Ristorante

24041 S. Tamiami Trail, 3903187. Angelinasofbonitasprings. com. Fine foods, lush banquettes and an award-winning

wine list make for a top area restaurant. $$$$ ITALIAN

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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

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Cirella’s*

25265 Chamber of Commerce Drive, 948-3885. cirellasrestaurantsswfl.com. It’s an unusual combination that works—an Italian restaurant with a sushi bar. $$$ ITALIAN

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Come enjoy what Naples is all about!

Great views, great food, and great fun should all be a part of your Naples experience. Indulge in fresh seafood dishes energized with tropical flavors and carefully curated wine, beer, and cocktail lists. All is paired perfectly with a fun, open-air, waterfront, dining experience.

Wowing our guests for 45 years and counting! (239) 263-9940 • DockCraytonCove.com • 845 12th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102


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

opv

ESTERO Divieto Ristorante

23161 Village Shops Way #101, 390-2977. divietoristorante. com. This place is famous for fettuccine Alfredo prepared in a hollowed-out Parmesan wheel. $$$ ITALIAN

opv From time to time, chef Gloria M. Jordan-Cabral, of La Trattoria Cafe Napoli,

FORT MYERS BEACH

crafts a rosemary-infused crème brûlée inspired by Swedish royals.

Fresh Catch Bistro

5370 Bonita Beach Road, 676-7777. coconutjacks.com. Quiet water views off Bonita Beach Road. Perfect for a quick bite. $$$ SEAFOOD

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DeRomo’s Gourmet Market & Restaurant

26811 South Bay Drive, Suites 140 and 148, 325-3583. deromos.com. This restaurant with a big-city vibe is part and parcel of an Italian market, featuring fresh pastas, cheeses and baked goods. $$$$ ITALIAN

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Figs Grille

25987 S. Tamiami Trail #109, 390-1700. figsgrille.com. Refreshing fusion of Spanish, Turkish, Moroccan, Lebanese and French cuisines. $$$ MEDITERRANEAN

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3401 Bay Commons Dr., 9484400. oldefloridachophouse. com. Waterfront dining specializing in Florida-style dishes. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

Pinchers*

Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Seafood from local fishermen in a family-friendly setting. $$$ SEAFOOD

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The Other Side Bistro

Roy’s Restaurant

24630 S. Tamiami Trail, 9927433. bonitaspringsbistro. com. Chef Brian McCarley serves comforting dishes with a modern flair. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Petar’s Restaurant

3300 Bonita Beach Road, Unit 120, 249-4064. petarsrestaurant.com. Chef Petar Al Kurdi has developed a strong following for his deftly and cleverly prepared continental cuisine. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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26831 South Bay Drive, 4987697. roysrestaurant.com. Enjoy celebrity chef Roy Yamaguchi’s Hawaiian and Pacific fusion fine dining. $$$$ ASIAN

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A Table Apart

4295 Bonita Beach Road, 2218540. atableapart.com. This restaurant fuses influences from throughout the Pacific Rim. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

Tarpon Bay

5001 Coconut Road, 390-4295. hyatt.com. Elegant waterfront dining at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point. $$$$ SEAFOOD

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GULFSHORE LIFE

$$$ SEAFOOD

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Pinchers*

Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Seafood from local fishermen in a super-casual, family-friendly setting. $$$ SEAFOOD

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FORT MYERS SOUTH FORT MYERS Artisan Eatery

8951 Daniels Parkway, 887-4844. artisaneatery. com. Look beyond the counter service, soda machine and postage stamp size of this cafe for outstanding eggs Benedict, flatbreads and daily specials. $$ CASUAL

g ulf shorelife.com

Erik Kellar

Olde Florida Chop House*

Coconut Jack’s Waterfront Grille

3040 Estero Blvd., 4632600. freshcatchbistro.com. A notch above the more casual fare on the beach without feeling stuffy.


TASTE OF THE GULF

DINING GUIDE Ember Korean Steakhouse

7091 College Parkway #9, 771-8818. emberfortmyers. com. A contemporary gem with everything from tabletop barbecue to fusion dishes and sushi. $$$ ASIAN

Fancy’s Southern Café

8890 Salrose Lane #101, 561-2988. fancyssoutherncafe.com. Classic southern favorites served in a casually elegant atmosphere. $$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Harold’s

15250 S. Tamiami Trail Suite 107, 849-0622. haroldscuisine.

com. Chef Harold Balink presents farm-to-table

Pinchers*

cuisine and a large wine list in a cozy bistro setting. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

La Trattoria Café Napoli

Villas Plaza, 12377 S. Cleveland Ave., 931-0050. latrattoriacafenapoli.com. Known for chef-owner Gloria Jordan's paella, this Spanish restaurant features a variety of tapas, pasta and seafood dishes. $$$ MEDITERRANEAN

Osteria Celli

15880 Summerlin Road #308, 267-1310. osteriacelli. com. Authentic, freshly made pastas are a highlight of this upscale casual eatery. $$$ ITALIAN

Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Seafood from local fishermen in a casual and family-friendly setting. $$$ SEAFOOD

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The Saucy Meatball

12401 Commerce Lakes Drive, 800-7172. saucymeatball.com. A younger sister to the long popular 2 Meatballs in the Kitchen, this industrial-chic pizzeria also serves crave-worthy pasta dishes, salads, entrees.

Central Asian cuisine, this place 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, 2088368. vietvillagefl.com. After an extensive renovation, this lovely Vietnamese spot reopened to critical acclaim; don’t miss the rare-beef pho and the special rice cooked in a clay pot. $$ ASIAN

$$ ITALIAN

BELL TOWER SHOPS

Silk Road

DaRuMa Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Lounge*

8646 Gladiolus Drive, 689-4845. Specializing in

13499 S. Cleveland Ave., 344-0037. darumarestaurant.

DRY AGED

ON-PREMISE

LIVE MUSIC • OUTDOOR HEATED DINING & FIRE PITS • SAT AND SUN BRUNCH • FULL LIQUOR LICENSE

Reserve your individual steak now.

239-208-8518

2150 West First Street Fort Myers, Fl 33901

www.kingskitchenandbar.com www.facebook.com/kingskitchenandbar


TASTE OF THE GULF

DINING GUIDE Peruvian food prepared to perfection. The warm and personal service is also a delight. $$

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CENTRAL FORT MYERS

Ginger Bistro

Chef Brooke’s Natural Café

1850 Boy Scout Drive #A106, 332-2433. chefbrookeonline. com. Organic, gluten-free and vegan cuisine. Open until 4 p.m. $$ VEGETARIAN

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El Gaucho Inca

4383 Colonial Blvd., 275-7504. elgauchoinca.com. Traditional Argentinian (including the Italian specialties popular there) and

LATIN AMERICAN

4650 Cleveland Ave. #8, 689-3113; 2366 Surfside Blvd. Unit C-101, Cape Coral, 558-8865. gingerbistrousa.com. Authentic Chinese fare, including dim sum and traditional Cantonese barbecue. $$ ASIAN KJ’s Steakhouse

10950 S. Cleveland Ave., 275-4745. kjsfreshgrill.com. The creators behind this upscale-casual chophouse and burger spot pride

themselves on aging and a 900-degree searing technique. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN Sasse’s Restaurant

3651 Evans Ave., 2785544. sassesrestaurant. com. Northern Italian and European cuisine cooked in a wood-burning oven to critical acclaim. $$$$ ITALIAN MCGREGOR CORRIDOR Azure

15301 McGregor Blvd., 288-4296. azurefortmyers. com. At this casual boîte, chef Joe Pittman excels at modernized classics. $$$ FRENCH

o

Three60 Market on Naples’ Bayshore Drive is not only known for its bistro-style food but also for its exceptional variety of well-priced wine.

Blanc

13451 McGregor Blvd., 8873139. blancentertainment. com. The contemporary restaurant mixes trends, like sous vide and robata grilling, with a strong French influence. $$ FRENCH Cibo

454-3700. cibofortmyers. com. At Bridge Plaza, this Italian restaurant features seafood, steak, pasta— and an abundance of wines. $$$ ITALIAN

p

Crave Restaurant

12901 McGregor Blvd., 4664663. cravemenu.com. The chef makes all the comfort food from scratch—down to the deli meat for breakfast and lunch. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

Deep Lagoon Seafood & Oyster House*

14040 McGregor Blvd., 6895474. deeplagoon.com. This waterfront spot distinguishes itself with a raw bar and scenic marina views. $$$ SEAFOOD

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Roadhouse Café

15660 San Carlos Blvd., 4154375. roadhousecafefl.com. There’s something for everyone, with steaks as well as a wide range of dishes. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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DOWNTOWN FORT MYERS Bullig Coffee & Bites

1815 Fowler St., 703-2629. Thoroughly modern with a whimsical touch, Bullig has bespoke java brews that are works of art, plus savory and sweet waffles and

g ulf shorelife.com

Zach Stovall

com. Traditional service or Teppan-style tableside cooking. Steak, chicken, seafood, tempura, sushi and more. $$$$ ASIAN


more. Not open past 3 p.m. $ CASUAL

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Izzy’s Fish & Oyster

2282 First St., Fort Myers, 337-4999. izzysftmyers.com. A former Miami-based chef relocated his chic raw bar and New England-style seafood spot to the River District. $$$ SEAFOOD

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King’s Kitchen

2150 W. First St., 2088518. kingskitchenandbar. com. This laidback spot with a warehouse vibe and beer garden serves global comforts, like country fried chicken, shrimp and mojo roast pork. $$ ECLECTIC

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Pinchers*

Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Seafood from local fishermen in a casual setting. $$$ SEAFOOD

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Seed & Bean Market*

1520 Broadway, 243-8137. seedandbeanmarket.com. Half a shop for all things CBD, half a cute cafe with lattes, breakfast and bites for lunch and dinner. $$ CASUAL

Silver King Ocean Brasserie

River District eatery with fresh and from-scratch eats and craft cocktails in a convivial atmosphere. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Twisted Vine Bistro

2214 Bay Street, 226-1687. twistedvinebistro.com. Expect eclectic twists on grill and seafood dishes with a large wine list. The Barrel Room next door stocks rare whiskies and live blues. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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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. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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NORTH FORT MYERS Rosy Tomorrows Heritage Farm

8250 Nalle Grade Road, 5676000. rosy-tomorrows.com. Breakfast and lunch Thursday through Sunday is a unique treat—as you graze, you can see the humanely raised longhorn cattle, hogs and chickens. $$ MODERN AMERICAN

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SANIBEL ISL AND

2200 Edwards Drive, 833-9181512. luminaryhotel.com. It’s the signature restaurant inside the River District’s sparkling new Luminary Hotel & Co., and it’s serving up sleek, sophisticated coastal cuisine in a contemporary setting. $$$$ SEAFOOD

Bleu Rendez-Vous French Bistro

owvp

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The Standard

Cielo

1520 Broadway, 219-6463.

thestandardftmyers.com. A

2430 Periwinkle Way, 5651608. bleurendezvous.com. Chef Christian Vivet’s intimate French bistro is lauded for its authentic cuisine. $$$$ FRENCH

1244 Periwinkle Way, 4725555. cielo-sanibel.com.

You’ll Come Back Again & Again for our

Succulent Seafood Voted #1 Island Dining & Best Keylime Pie Wine Spectator Award 12 Years in a Row!

Live Entertainment Daily Sunday Jazz Brunch Late Night Lounge Outdoor Seating Walking Distance to the Beach RESERVATIONS ACCEPTED FOR PARTIES OF 5 OR MORE Open Daily 8AM – 10PM 11509 Andy Rosse Ln. Captiva Island, FL

239-395-4000

KeylimeBistroCaptiva.com


TASTE OF THE GULF

DINING GUIDE

A step above the rest of the island’s beachy cafes, with selections such as paella and rack of lamb. $$$$ SEAFOOD

CAPE COR AL & PINE ISL AND Blu Agave

with fresh berries, Grand Marnier custard and oh-so-sweet Maine maple syrup.

The modern American fare is all made in-house. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille

Sweet Melissa’s Café

11509 Andy Rosse Lane, 3954000. keylimebistrocaptiva.com. Colorful, with an island feel, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with a full bar.

sweetmelissascafe.com. Chef

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$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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1625 Periwinkle Way, 472-1956.

Multiple locations throughout Lee County. docfords.com.

Go for the seafood, mojitos and its namesake rum bar. $$$ SEAFOOD

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Melissa Donahue-Talmage’s creative cuisine is not to be missed—she became Sanibel's first semifinalist for a James Beard Award in 2019. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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The Mad Hatter

6467 Sanibel Captiva Road, 472-0033. madhatterrestaurant.com. Whimsical beachfront fine dining. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Mud Bugs Cajun Kitchen

1473 Periwinkle Way, 472-2221.

mudbugssanibel.com. From the ornate wrought iron balustrade to a menu chock full of Crescent City classics like beignets and po’ boys, everything is designed to

308

harken the French Quarter.

$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

The Mucky Duck

11546 Andy Rosse Lane, 4723434. muckyduck.com. Expect a British pub vibe with seafood platters, beers and live music on the beach. $$$ CASUAL

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T2

2340 Periwinkle Way, 558-8919. t2traders.com. This retro-chic spot serves short rib flatbreads, curried snapper and house-made bread pudding. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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CAPTIVA ISL AND Keylime Bistro at Captiva Island Inn*

GULFSHORE LIFE

RC Otter’s Island Eats*

11506 Andy Rosse Lane, 3951142. captivaislandinn.com. This beachside restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner to the tune of daily live music. $$ CASUAL

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Sunshine Seafood Cafe and Wine Bar

11508 Andy Rosse Lane, 4726200. captivaislandinn.com.

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Cork Soakers Deck & Wine Bar

837 SE 47th Terrace, 542-6622. corksoakers.net. A delightfully irreverent tone shows in decor and menu (“The Hangover sandwich” and curry-brined wings). $$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Fathoms Restaurant & Bar

5785 Cape Harbour Drive, 542-0123. fathomsrestau rant.com. A modern Cape Harbour restaurant serving cuisine with international influences and authentic flavors. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Fish Tale Grill By Merrick Seafood

1229 SE 47th Terrace, 257-3167. fishtalegrill.com. Starting with fresh fish from the adjacent market, many popular items here earn descriptions like “the best I ever ate.” $$$$ SEAFOOD

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g ulf shorelife.com

Vanessa Rogers

Sails hosts a Champagne Brunch every Sunday. Try the Sails French Toast, artfully prepared

1404 Cape Coral Parkway E., 471-2075. bluagaverestaurant.com. Expect Mexican classics from tacos to enchiladas to margaritas to flan. $$ MEXICAN


TASTE OF THE GULF

DINING GUIDE

Gather

5971 Silver King Blvd., 673-9939. gathercape.com. Eclectic Tarpon Point Marina spot, from two of the Cape’s most celebrated chefs. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Jungle Bird

1520 Lafayette St., 471-4111. junglebirdtiki.com. One of the most exciting restaurants to debut in 2020, it’s an authentic homage to all things tiki, with sophisticated spins on popular Polynesian cocktails along with nuanced dishes from across the Pacific Rim. $$$ ASIAN

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

opb

Marker 92 Waterfront Bar & Bistro/Nauti Mermaid

5961 Silver King Blvd., 541-5600. Sit outside for views of an open bay and tasty entrees. $$$ SEAFOOD

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Nevermind

927 E. Cape Coral Parkway, 994-3062. nevermindcapecoral.com. A hip spot with seriously good comfort food, strong cocktails and a fun atmosphere. $$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Pinchers*

Multiple locations throughout Collier and Lee counties. pinchersusa.com. Seafood from local fishermen in a casual setting. $$$ SEAFOOD

Refreshed and Enlivened!!! Experience Innovative Culinary Treasures at...

bha! bha! Persian Bistro

The Jewel of Fifth

“Persian Perfection” -NY Times

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www.BhaBhaBistro.com


TASTE OF THE GULF

DINING GUIDE

by

ANDY HYDE Point 57 Kitchen & Cocktails

3522 Del Prado Blvd. S., 471-7785. point-57.com. A critically acclaimed menu is the bedrock of this upscale-casual eatery that ione of Lee County’s best.

923 Creech Road, Naples, FL 34103 Tel: 239-404-3065 www.hydenchicrestaurant.com Catering | Private Events | Off-site Events

$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Rumrunners

5848 Cape Harbour Drive, 542-0200. rumrunnersrestaurant. com. On a picturesque mangrove-lined canal, this laidback, indoor-outdoor spot offers dependable fare. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

opw Slate’s

4820 Candia St., 540-6800. slatescapecoral.com. New Orleans is evoked in all dishes, from the traditional to the inventive—as well as in the lively jazz lounge. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN

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Tarpon Lodge Restaurant*

13771 Waterfront Dr., Bokeelia, 283-3999. tarponlodge.com. Imaginatively crafted lunch and dinner in a 1920s fishing lodge overlooking Pine Island Sound. $$$$ MODERN AMERICAN

Friday, April 23rd

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Texas Tony’s*

738 SW Pine Island Road, 3477033. texastonys.com. Enjoy ribs, brisket and a large selection of beer at this eatery from the folks behind Pinchers. $$ BARBECUE

o FOR TICKETS, CALL:

239-593-7686


NO _ 5 0 6

0 4 _ 2 0 21

ARTS + LEISURE

Two female abstract artists (including Wendy Westlake whose work is pictured) show during the Blending the Line exhibit

Courtesy East West Fine Art

at East West Fine Art.


ARTS + LEISURE

AGENDA

Courtesy Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center; Harmon-Meek Gallery

Fill your April calendar with local art shows, festivals, live performances and other community events. As conditions are constantly changing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we recommend you contact the organizations for the latest information.

3 12

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com


Alex Lago (left) presents at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, while Reynier Llanes showcases new work (right) at Harmon-Meek Gallery.

Through July 25

Myers’ Sidney & Berne Davis

ry material, have earned him

Art Center. sbdac.com

a top spot on Harmon-Meek

Making a Mark: American Women Artists

Gallery’s radar. Check out his April 3

Works created by female

latest creations at this solo exhibition. harmonmeek.com

artists between the 1920s

Art in the Park

and 1990s, from The Baker

Naples Art’s longtime

Museum’s permanent collec-

outdoor art show moves to

tion, are presented alongside

Baker Park this month. Head

Naples Women’s Beach

loaned pieces from collec-

to the top of the 34-foot

Retreat

tors. artisnaples.org

knoll to scope out the booths

Connect with like-minded

below. naplesart.org

ladies during the discussion

April 2-28

April 9-11

panels and barefoot beach April 6-30

Radial Pilgrim

brunch at this event, which includes a discounted stay

Cuban artist Alex Lago’s

New Works by Reynier

Naples Beach Hotel & Golf

watercolor paintings are

Llanes

Club. naplesbeachhotel.com

embedded with metaphors.

The artist’s knack for creating

Expect motifs such as tree

hyper-realistic paintings, with

branches growing from the

espresso featured as a prima-

human form to symbolize growth in this show at Fort

ARTS + LEISURE

3 13


ARTS + LEISURE

AGENDA

See Letters from Home (left) at the Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda, and art from Ellen Moershel (above) at East West Fine Art in Naples.

April 10-22

toe-tapping extravaganza in the Gulf Theater at the

Bending the Line

Military Heritage Museum in

Modern abstract artists

Punta Gorda. gulftheater.org

Ellen Moershel and Wendy Westlake show their distinctive takes on shape and color in this duo exhibit at East

One Night in Memphis

Mercato International Fest

West Fine Art in Mercato.

Travel back in time with a

Watch Celtic dancers,

eastwestfineart.com

tribute concert featuring hits

Chinese lion dancers, flamenco guitarists and African

from legendary Sun Records April 10

drummers while sampling

recording artists Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis

international foods in the

Letters from Home

and Elvis Presley at Barbara

Naples shopping center.

Patriotic Show

B. Mann Performing Arts

mercatoshops.com

This high-energy show

Hall. bbmannpah.com

gleans inspiration from the actors, musicians and comedians who performed for the troops in the United Service Organizations (USO). Witness the singing, dancing,

3 14

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy Military Heritage Museum; East West Fine Art

April 10

April 12



ARTS + LEISURE

AGENDA April 14

April 15 through June 15

Wednesday x Design

America’s Everglades:

Builders and Architects

Through the Lens of

Stop by the Naples Design

Clyde Butcher

District to meet with local

See the our natural treas-

home professionals, includ-

ures captured through our

ing Herscoe Hajjar Archi-

region’s most respected

tects, Kurtz Homes Naples,

landscape photographer at

Stofft Cooney Architects,

Naples Botanical Garden.

BSSW Architects, BUILD

naplesgarden.org

and Naples Redevelopment, during this weekly event. naplesdesigndistrict.com

One Night in Mem-

from the King (left) at Barbara B. Mann; while artists, such as Charmion von Wiegand (whose work is pictured), hang together at The Baker Museum.

3 16

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Courtesy Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall Courtesy The Baker Museum/© Estate of Charmion von Wiegand; Michael Rosenfeld Gallery LLC, New York, NY.

phis features music



ARTS + LEISURE

AGENDA

Toby Keith makes a stop at Hertz Arena (right), and Suncoast Humane Society hosts its 12th Annual Critter Classic in Port Charlotte (opposite).

April 16

April 17

April 24

April 29 through May 30

Turnstiles: Billy Joel Tribute

Best Buddies Friendship

2021 SWFL Wine & Food

Art by the disABLEd

These Florida-based Billy

Walk: Southwest Florida

Fest Virtual Live Auction

Each year, Lee Health’s

Joel fans celebrate 10 years

Support those with intel-

SWFL Children’s Charities

Arts in Healthcare program

of performing hits from the

lectual and developmental

hosts two options for this

holds a show at BIG ARTS to

lovingly-dubbed Piano Man

disabilities by logging

year’s virtual event: through

showcase patients’ work. All

with a concert at the Sidney

miles at this reformatted

intimate Chef Vintner Dinner

proceeds go to the artists

& Berne Davis Art Center.

event. Rather than walking,

Watch Parties hosted by

and program. bigarts.org

sbdac.com

volunteers can follow the

supporters or from your own

route in their vehicle in the

place with a Wine Fest at

CARE-a-van event. bestbud-

Home package.

diesfriendshipwalk.org

swflwinefest.org

12th Annual Critter Classic Head to the greens at River-

Toby Keith: Country Comes to Town Tour

April 21 through May 9

April 28 through May 23

wood Golf Club in Port Char-

“How do you like me now— now that I’m on my way” (to

lotte to support the Suncoast

With This Ring

Calendar Girls

Estero)? The Made in Ameri-

Humane Society. Pre-tourney

Fall in love with this original

This touching narrative

ca star comes to Hertz Arena

breakfast and lunch included.

show, written by a local

follows a group of friends

to perform hit songs from his

humane.org

thespian. It tells the charm-

baring it all to raise mon-

nearly 30-year country music

ing story of a relic that ties a

ey for leukemia research.

career. hertzarena.com

family together for genera-

Inspired by the play, The

tions. themarcoplayers.com

Naples Players are selling their own calendars to benefit local food insecurity. naplesplayers.org

3 18

GULFSHORE LIFE

g ulf shorelife.com

Getty; Courtesy Suncoast Humane Society

April 17

April 30


F LO W E R

B O U T I Q U E

jardinfdflowers.com 4949 Tamiami Trail N Ste 101, Naples, FL 34103 (239) 404-1050

Naples Personal Concierge E S T A B L I S H E D

2 0 1 0

Naplesconciergeservice.com

Groceries • Wines • Spirits • Flowers • Chocolates Airport Transportation • Car Delivery or Pick up

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PARTING SHOT

I SSU E October 2011

ED I T O R Da vid Sendler

S T O RY “Making Magic”

AT ON E W I T H NAT U R E Photographer Clyde Butcher is famous for trekking deep into the wildest stretches to capture the beauty of the Everglades. Here, he is shown photographed, by his wife, artist Niki Butcher, in Kissimee River for his 2011 collection

320

GULFSHORE LIFE

GL Archives

Kissimmee River: the Northern Everglades.

g ulf shorelife.com


A E STH ETI C S U R G E RY C E NTE R

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