Estero March 2012

MARCH 2012

ESTERO BASEBALL |

FIGS GRILLE

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BALLOONS OVER PARADISE

FRONT COVER BANKS GIVE BACK TO LOCAL COMMUNITIES

2012

SPRING FASHIONS

LA CAGE AUX FOLLES

PHILHARMONIC CENTER FOR THE ARTS

LENNAR BellaTerra

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MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

Consign and design – making smart decisions about your furnishings.

Insights on Home Furnishings

by Greg Hunt, General Manager

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e-mail: consign@theposhplum.com LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM | MARCH 2012

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Lifestyle

Commercial & Estate

Estero PUBLISHER Gary

Israel

EDITOR IN CHIEF Jeff

Perlman

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Danielle

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Melanie

Estero Office Space offered at $279,000 or Lease for $15 psf plus CAM

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Laura Cummings, Jim Freer, Laura Gates, Marla Lazarus Candy Norton, Bruce Turkel, Peter Zelewski PHOTOGRAPHERS

Laura Gates Downtown Photo/Fort Lauderdale, Dreamfocus Photography, Kevin Lane,

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9250 Corkscrew Road, Suite 8 Estero, Fl 33928

239-277-1515 www.selectre.net 4

MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

Š2012 Estero Lifestyle is published by Lifestyle Publications, LLC, all rights reserved. Estero Lifestyle is a monthly advertising magazine. All contents are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced without written consent from the publisher. The advertiser is solely responsible for ad content and holds publisher harmless from any error.

AMERIVEST PAGE 5

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MARCH 2012

MACRH 2012

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PEOPLE&EVENTS 10 Bonita Blues 12 Estero Relay for Life 14 BBQ Fun Fest 16 Fast and The Furriest 18 Balloons Over Paradise

BANKS GIVE BACK TO LOCAL COMMUNITIES

2012

SPRING FASHIONS

COVER STORY 18 Broadway’s Best FEATURE STORY 26 Jet Blue Park Opening STYLE 32 2012 Spring Fashion 34 Travel Style

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BUSINESS&MONEY 36 Banks Give Back 38 Brad Pressentin 40 CALENDAR OF EVENTS DINING STYLE 42 Figs Grille

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MARCH 2012

SCENEONSITE 46 Grandezza Gives Backk 48 Meet Mr. Color

FIGS GRILLE

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BALLOONS OVER PARADISE

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ON THE COVER

contents

ESTERO BASEBALL |

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LA CAGE AUX FOLLES

PHILHARMONIC CENTER FOR THE ARTS

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

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MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

DR. AARON LEISHMAN

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PEOPLE&events

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M ARCH & MARCH 10TH RIVERSIDE PARK BONITABLUES.COM

BONITA BLUES Giving Back Through the Blues!

On Friday, March 9 and Saturday, March 10, 2012, the Bonita Blues Charitable Foundation will host the Sixth Annual Bonita Blues Festival in Riverside Park in downtown Bonita Springs. Festival proceeds will go to local charities including the community chapter of the Wounded Warrior Project (www. woundedwarriorproject.org), Bonita Springs Assistance Office (www. bonitaassistance.org), providing a “hand up” and not a “hand out,” Music For Minors Foundation Inc. (www.music4minors.org), providing musical instruments to local deserving children who are unable to buy them, and the Music Therapy Program at the Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida (www. leememorial.org/childrenhospital), which, with music, brightens the day of children in treatment at the Hospital.

The Festival features a wide range of blues artists and local vendors, at

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MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

TINSLEY ELLIS

the band shell in Riverside Park. The goal is to bring National blues acts to Southwest Florida and feature local Blues bands that deserved to be heard on the “Big Stage.”

Headlining Friday night’s show is Tinsley Ellis, who has shared stages with almost every major blues star, including Stevie Ray Vaughan, Otis Rush, Willie Dixon, Koko Taylor, Albert Collins, Buddy Guy, The Allman Brothers and Gov’t Mule.

Also performing on Friday is Karen Lovely, 2011 BMA Nominee for Best Contemporary Blues Female Artist, Best Contemporary Blues Album and Song of the Year. Friday’s Lineup also includes Damon Fowler, master of the lap-steel, dobro, and slide guitars. Damon recently opened for BB King and The Steve Miller Band.

Saturday’s headliner is Chicago favorite, Magic Slim & the Teardrops. Over the course of his illustrious career, Slim has been

nominated many times for BMA Awards and has won a half dozen of the coveted awards. This year he’s nominated for best “Traditional Blues Male Artist.” Also performing on Saturday is Trampled Under Foot, out of Kansas City, MO, Winner of the 2008 IBC International Blues Challenge and nominated this year for “Band of the Year,” “Best DVD” and “Best Instrumental Bass.”

Other performers include Skyla Burrell, Mel Melton & the Wicked Mojos, Stringtown, Rick Howard and Mudbone, Deb & the Dynamics, The Kim Page Band and The Gladezmen.

Tickets to the festival are just $30 in advance for a weekend pass. Prices at the gate are $20 for Friday, $25 for Saturday and $40 for the weekend. For additional information and to purchase tickets, visit www.bonitablues.com. Tickets are also available locally at Buffalo Chip and Survey Café.

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PEOPLE&events

17 MARCH

ESTERO COMMUNITY PARK

11AM

ESTERO RELAY FOR LIFE Estero Relay for Life!

St Patrick’s Day will be celebrated a little differently in Estero this year.

Normally the Village is painted green but this year it will be painted purple in honor of the 6th Annual Estero Relay for Life, Estero’s largest program that supports the American Cancer Society.

“Our mission is to `Celebrate More Birthdays’ by keeping people alive”, says Judi Gietzen, Estero resident and 2012 Co-Event Chair. “This is my third year of involvement and I am so proud of our community for the continued support and growth we experience each year.

I have been personally touched by cancer; my oldest brother lost his life a few years ago and gave

“OUR MISSION IS TO “CELEBRATE MORE BIRTHDAYS”

BY KEEPING PEOPLE ALIVE”

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MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

the ultimate donation, his body to cancer research“.

Gietzen also serves as President of the Bonita Springs-Estero Chapter of the Women’s Council of Realtors and is a member of the Board of Directors for the Bonita Springs Estero Area Board of Realtors. Although she is extremely busy working as a full time Realtor with Amerivest Realty, she says “This is how I can help and I need to the make time”.

Teams have been campaigning since last September. This year’s goal is $50,000 and we are well on our way but you can still register a team, join an existing team or donate by visiting www. relayforlife.org/esterofl.

“We are thankful to all of the local business, such as Germain Arena and the Grand Oaks Plaza McDonalds, that have shown their support for this worthy cause,” Gietzen says.

This inspirational day will begin at 11:00am with a complimentary Brunch Reception honoring cancer survivors and caregivers at Estero Community Park. To register for brunch and receive your free t-shirt, visit www. relayforlife.org/esterofl.

Following the reception, our Opening Ceremony will begin at noon and includes the traditional survivor and caregiver laps. The 18-hour day will be filled with family friendly entertainment organized by Estero resident and Realtor, Michael Jackson.

As dusk falls Saturday evening, Luminaries will light our teams’ way around the track. Luminaries can be purchased in honor of loved ones at www.relayforlife. org/esterofl.

So grab walking shoes and meet us at the Estero Community Park on March 17th for an experience that will change your life.

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PEOPLE&events

24 MARCH

ESTERO COMMUNITY PARK 11AM

ESTERO BBQ FEST 2nd Annual Rotary Club BBQ Fun Fest BARBECUE FANS REJOICE! ON THE HEELS OF A VERY SUCCESSFUL 2011 EVENT THE ROTARY CLUB OF ESTERO IS HAVING ITS SECOND ANNUAL BARBECUE & FAMILY FUN FEST ON SATURDAY, MARCH 24, 2012.

The free event will run from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Estero Community Park and feature food, music, and other fun for all ages.

The excitement of the second annual event is evident in the words of Joe Faerber who serves as chairman of the festival.

“Following up upon the popularity and great success of the Estero Rotary Club’s initial 2011 BBQ & Family Fun Fest, we have decided to make this our signature 2012 annual event and fundraiser for the several worthy charitable organizations that we are supporting this year. With the sponsorship and support of our business community and residents we hope that this family event will grow larger each year, and will put our beautiful area on the map. We promise your entire family a funfilled day of great outdoor events, laser tag and games for the kids, wonderful music all day, including a three hour show by the very popular Cahlua & Cream starting at 5:00 p.m.; exciting raffle prizes, beautiful exotic cars, great tasting barbecue, delicious food of all varieties, as well

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MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

as cold beer, wine, and soft drinks for everyone’s taste. Admission is FREE, so please come to Estero Community Park on Saturday, March 24, starting at 11:00 a.m.”

New for the 2012 BBQ/Family Fun Fest is the Estero Festival of the Arts show. Artwork of students from Pinewoods, San Carlos, and Three Oaks elementary, Three Oaks Middle, and Estero High schools will be displayed. The awards ceremony will be held on the park’s stage at 4:00 p.m. A second added feature for 2012 is the exciting Estero High School Jazz Ensemble. They will perform at 12:30 p.m.

Another new feature of the BBQ/ Family Fun Fest is a full display of a Rotary International “Shelter Box” that is used to provide shelter for families after natural disasters like tsunamis, hurricanes, and earth quakes. Each family is provided with a tent and essential equipment to survive in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. The tent includes blankets, water storage and purification equipment, cooking utensils, a stove, a basic tool kit, a

children’s activity pack and other vital items. Since its inception in 2000 Shelter Box has provided shelter for people in more than 150 disasters in 70 countries.

Strolling Magician Keith Raygor will delight crowds from noon to 1:00 p.m. Comic-Ventriloquist David Sleeper and Friends will be strolling from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. entertaining both children and their parents.

Estero Community Park is a great venue with lots of space and plenty of parking. Best of all, proceeds will go to three worthy organizations who help children in need. s "ARBARA S &RIENDS THAT PROVIDES treatment of children with cancer in southwest Florida. s #HILDREN 7ITHOUT THAT IMPROVES the dignity and quality of life for children through a variety of educational programs. s 'IFT OF ,IFE THAT WORKS TO SAVE the lives of children with congenital heart defects.

For further information on the BBQ/Family Fun Fest visit www. bbq-estero.com

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LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM | MARCH 2012

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PEOPLE&events

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FAST & THE FURRIEST

MARCH

COCONUT POINT

8AM

239-332-0364 EXT. 309

Get Ready to Run With the Big Dogs!

THE GULF COAST HUMANE SOCIETY IS STAGING ITS SECOND ANNUAL THE FAST & THE FURRIEST – A DOG-FRIENDLY 5K RUN AND 1-MILE FUN WALK AT COCONUT POINT ON SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012 AT 8AM. The exciting event is open to running enthusiasts and animal lovers from all “walks” of life, and 100% of the proceeds benefit the mission of the Gulf Coast Humane Society, a no-kill shelter and full service veterinary clinic that rescues, cares for, and finds forever homes for more than 1,000 abandoned and neglected animals in southwest Florida each year.

The Fast & The Furriest also will feature great music, food and drinks for attendees, raffle prizes, plus fun-filled activities for the entire family. The race begins on Via Coconut Point behind the mall and ends on Fashion Drive just past the Hollywood Theaters. Official timing

“IT’S A BEAUTIFUL VENUE FOR OUR RACE PARTICIPANTS AND THEIR CANINE COMPANIONS, AND THE EVENT IS A FANTASTIC FUNDRAISER FOR OUR SHELTER PETS. ”

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MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

will be provided by 3D Racing.

Coconut Point is the ideal host location for a dog-friendly race and fun walk. With 140 stores (99 of them dog-friendly), Coconut Point is the largest and best-known dog-friendly entertainment destination in the region. The inaugural The Fast & The Furriest in 2011 attracted more than 300 participants and raised more than $23,000 to benefit GCHS. “We are thrilled to be back at Coconut Point for the second annual The Fast & The Furriest,” said David Stroud, Executive Director of the Gulf Coast Humane Society. “It’s a beautiful venue for our race participants and their canine companions, and the event is a fantastic fundraiser for our shelter pets.”

Runners and walkers can register as individuals or form teams to raise money to benefit the shelter. Registration for runners is $25 and walkers is $15, and an

additional $5 for those who wish to bring their dog to the event.

Registration and sponsorship forms can be found by visiting www. gulfcoasthumanesociety.org or by calling 239-332-0364 ext. 309 for more information.

Established in 1947 in Fort Myers with off-site adoption locations throughout southwest Florida, GCHS is the region’s original humane society. Gulf Coast Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit animal welfare organization that receives no public tax funding of any kind, and no funding from any national animal group.

Whether you are a runner, walker, dog lover, or someone just looking for a fun, family-friendly event to support a great cause, make plans to attend the 2nd annual The Fast & The Furriest 5K Run/1-Mile Walk to benefit the Gulf Coast Humane Society at Coconut Point on March 31st!

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LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM | MARCH 2012

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PEOPLE&events

13 BALLOONS OVER PARADISE APRIL

IMMOKALEE REGIONAL AIRPORT

“DAWN”

800-218-0007

Seminole Casino Immokalee to Paint the Skies “Balloons Over Paradise” Festival April 13-15 IMMOKALEE, Fla. – Southwest Floridians and visitors alike will get the view of a lifetime at Seminole Casino Immokalee’s inaugural “Balloons Over Paradise” Festival at Immokalee Regional Airport on April 13-15, starting at dawn daily. This celebration of flight will feature more than 30 custom hot air balloons, culinary treats from a variety of Southwest Florida eateries, live entertainment, great giveaways and more. Admission to the event is free.

“We are excited to announce our first-ever ‘Balloons Over Paradise’ Festival and to showcase these floating works of art,” said Jim Gibson, director of marketing at Seminole Casino Immokalee.

“We want to show travelers that Southwest Florida and Seminole Casino Immokalee have a lot to offer from our scenery, to events, entertainment, culinary delights and more.”

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MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

Throughout the weekend, event-goers can look on as hot air balloons take flight, filling the skies of Southwest Florida with colorful designs. They will delight in the festive display created by balloonists representing various states across the country, including South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Rhode Island and more.

The balloons will kick off each morning with a dawn patrol glow in which they will illuminate to a musical score performed by a live orchestra. Festival goers will be able to walk among the balloons as they inflate for a mass ascension into the skies, all to the sounds of a big band playing songs from the American songbook. The balloons will be in air for several hours with a great lineup of activities to fill the rest of the day. A group of balloons will engage in a mass landing at the airport.

Additionally, balloons will test their pilot’s skills with a contest to place

a bean bag closest to a designated target.

Local and regional restaurants will be on hand during the inaugural event, whipping up their classic dishes as well as wonderful seasonal items.

Live entertainment throughout the weekend will stimulate event goers’ ears just as much as their eyes.

National recording artists will close out the festival each day. Check the casino’s website for lineup details.

Seminole Casino Immokalee is easily accessible to all of Southwest Florida via I-75, and Southwest Florida International Airport is only a 45-minute drive from the casino.

Located between Miami and Naples, north of Alligator Alley on Highway 846, it’s five blocks south of Highway 29.

Approximately 30 minutes from Naples and Fort Myers. For directions or other information call toll-free (800) 218-0007 or visit www. seminoleimmokaleecasino.com .

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LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM | MARCH 2012

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THE Broadway’s PHILHAMONIC best comes to Southwest Florida STORY IT’S SHOWTIME IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA, AS THREE HIT BROADWAY SHOWS ARE HEADED TO THE PHILHARMONIC CENTER FOR THE ARTS IN MARCH AND APRIL – THE TONY AWARD-WINNING REVIVAL OF LA CAGE AUX FOLLES STARRING GEORGE HAMILTON AND CHRISTOPHER SIEBER; THE RIVETING DRAMA RED, WHICH WON A TONY AWARD FOR BEST PLAY; AND THE SPECTACULAR, CRITICALLY HAILED COME FLY AWAY, FEATURING THE SONGS OF FRANK SINATRA AND THE CHOREOGRAPHY OF TWYLA THARP.

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MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

THE PHILHAMONIC STORY

La Cage Aux Folles One of the biggest hits of the 2010 Broadway season, the revival of the musical comedy classic La Cage Aux Folles won three Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival.

La Cage tells the touching tale of one family’s struggle to stay together and stay true to themselves – and features a glorious score of hummable melodies.

It stars veteran actor George Hamilton and Broadway and television star Christopher Sieber. Hamilton, the debonair star of stage, television and screen, is best known for such films as Where the Boys Are, Your Cheatin’ Heart, Love At First Bite, Zorro The Gay Blade, Godfather III and My One and Only, which was based loosely on his own life.

He also appeared on television’s Dynasty and on Dancing with the Stars.

He recently shared some of his thoughts on La Cage and his wide ranging career.

Excerpts follow: How have you managed to survive so long in show business - and to have had such a versatile career?

A lot of it was just by accident. I’m lucky and humbled to have lasted 52 years in the business. But I had to learn.

I really had to learn. You have to reinvent yourself every three years if you want to stay in the business. Cary Grant once said that to me: Reinvent yourself every three years. I’ve remembered that.

Didn’t Cary Grant also tell you, “Always have a tan.”

Yes, he said it to me and he also said

it to Tony Bennett.

He was doing North by Northwest at the time and I was doing another movie on the same lot. He’d be out there with his sun reflector and say, “No, I don’t have to put on makeup, boys, I’ll just sit here out in the sun.”

So you really do spend a lot of time in the sun?

I do. I was always outdoors all my life. When I was a kid, I grew up in Florida and somehow I got the feeling that girls liked me better with my tan.

LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM | MARCH 2012

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Why did La Cage Aux Folles interest you?

La Cage is sometimes thought of as something of an anthem for the gay community. But the real great plays that last are the ones that are universal, that have a theme bigger than the moment and the times. And this one does. It’s about family. It’s about being who you are. It’s about being faithful and loyal to whomever and whatever. And basically it’s a show that

continues to amaze me. Every night there’s a standing ovation. I’m not the cause of that, I’m just a part of it. It’s due to everybody who’s in the play and those who have written it and conceived it …

This is a perfect vehicle for me and it’s an amazing show.

IF YOU GO Red Where: Daniels Pavilion Tuesday-Saturday, March 27-31, 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, March 31, 2:00 p.m.

Come Fly Away In Come Fly Away, two artistic giants tell a universal tale of love and loss.

Choreographer and dancer Twyla Tharp has long understood the allure of Frank Sinatra’s music. In 1976, she created and danced with Mikhail Baryshnikov in the duet Once More Frank for American Ballet Theatre. Six years later, she created the classic Nine Sinatra Songs, for 14 dancers, and two years after that, another duet, Sinatra Suite. When Sinatra received his Kennedy Center honor in 1984, he asked that Tharp’s Sinatra Suite be performed.

“She brings class to my music,” he said.

Now, Tharp has crafted a more in-depth collaboration with the great singer, who died in 1998. Come Fly Away is a fulllength musical production showcasing Sinatra’s voice accompanied by a 19-piece live big band – and featuring 14 dancers displaying the mesmerizing inventiveness of Tharp’s choreography. The show, which follows four couples as they fall in and out of love at a New York nightclub on a sultry summer evening, received glowing reviews in its 2010 Broadway run (The New York Times called it “spectacular and dazzling … Twyla Tharp’s electrifying celebration of the music of Frank Sinatra will sweep you up in a complete spell.”).

For Matthew Dibble, who plays the role of Chanos in the show, Come Fly Away has been a rare chance to work with “two geniuses.” Dibble has been with Come Fly Away since it first started at Atlanta’s Alliance Theatre in 2009.

“The Sinatra tunes are legendary stuff,” says Dibble. “His music is very real. The phrasing of his voice, the texture. He lived this music.”

Then there’s Twyla Tharp, who has created groundbreaking work in ballet, modern dance and on Broadway.

“Working with Twyla is extraordinary” says Dibble, “because there’s always something new in it every day.”

Dibble adds that Tharp’s choreography and Sinatra’s music are a perfect match.

“You can just see it in the audience every night we do this, in how they respond to the show.”

THE PHILHAMONIC STORY IF YOU GO La Cage Aux Folles starring George Hamilton Tuesday-Saturday, February 28 - March 3, 8:00 p.m.

Sunday, March 4, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday, March 3 - 4, 2:00 p.m.

Red “What do you see?”

That’s the question that opens Red, which comes to the Phil’s Daniels Pavilion for six performances at the end of March.

The answer is complicated, thoughtprovoking and entertaining – and takes us deep into the mind of the great RussianAmerican abstract artist Mark Rothko (1903-1970). Red is set in Rothko’s studio in the late 1950s at a time when the artist has just received the world’s largest commission to create a series of murals for the Four Seasons restaurant. The two-man play explores the tug of war between art and commerce, integrity and fame – as Rothko interacts with his young, smart and increasingly disillusioned assistant.

Based on real events in Rothko’s life (about 10 years before the artist committed suicide) Red took Broadway by storm in 2010, receiving seven Tony Award nominations and winning six, including Best Play. The New York Times noted, “What we see is an artist seeing, and it’s impossible not to be thrilled by the privilege.”

For the Naples production, veteran stage actor Bill McNulty will star as Rothko.

McNulty is a company member with Actors Theatre of Louisville, where he has done more than 160 productions, and has performed all over the country. The role of Ken, Rothko’s assistant, will be played by New York actor David McElwee.

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MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

IF YOU GO Come Fly Away Thursday-Friday, April 5-6, 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, April 7, 2:00 p.m & 8:00 p.m.

Fun for the Entire Family!

FREE ADMISSION!

ROTARY CLUB ESTERO

Presented by the Rotary Club of Estero Foundation, Inc.

Taste the Flavor of Southwest Florida!

Come and enjoy the music of

Cahlua & Cream 5:00pm - 8:00pm

Great Food, Games & Car Show!

Sponsored Locally by:

Estero Community Park Saturday, S d March h 24 11am - 9pm Proceeds Support Local Charities

www.bbq-estero.com

LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM | MARCH 2012

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SPRING TRAINING

26

MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

6 APRIL

SPRING SPRING BRI RINGS GS OPENING OPENIN G OF O TRAINING J ET E T B LUE PAR ARK

THE MIRACLE’S SEASON OPENING

LAY BALL!

BY LAURA CUMMINGS

AS THE BOSTON N RED SOX HEAD TO FORT MYERS TO TRY OUT THEIR NEW W BALLPAR P K AND THE MINNESOTA T TWINS SWING INTO SPRING P TRAINING JUST SIX MILES AW AWAY, BASEBALL FA NS S WILL H A AVE PLENTY O F OPPORTUNITY TO SPECULATE A ABOUT O THE UPCO MING SEASON. Basketball may ru ule the airwaves in March, but in sou uth Lee County, this month is all abou ut baseball. With the grand opening o of JetBlue Park at Fenway South ccoinciding with the 100th anniversaary of Boston’s Fenway Park, Red Sox fans are especially eager.

“Everybody think ks they’ll miss City of Palms Park, b but after they see this, they won’t miss it,” said Brett

started up the Grapefruit League.

The first team to train in Fort Myers was the Philadelphia Athletics, owned and managed by Connie Mack, the great-grandfather of Florida Congressman Connie Mack IV. The Athletics built Terry Park Stadium in 1925. It was later used by the Cleveland Indians, Pittsburgh Pirates and Kansas City Royals.

“IT’S GOING N TO BE TR ICKY SCH HEDUL D ING EVERYTHING NG ,

but we’ll w make it work,”

Bodine, Red Sox Flo orida operations coordinator.

Both Red Sox and d Twins players reported for sprin ng training in mid-February. Thesee Major League Baseball operations d drew a combined 260,506 fans to the arrea in 2011.

The Twins topped d their all-time attendance record, and a study done for the Red Sox a few years ago estimated their ffans made a $25 million impact durin ng the six weeks of spring training.

Southwest Floridaa has long been a popular locale for spring training, dating back to 1914, w when four teams

Baseball greats Jimmy Foxx, Bob Feller, Tris Speaker, Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth and Roberto Clemente all played on the Terry Park field, which was the Royals’ spring training facility until 1987.

In 1991, the Minnesota Twins moved its spring training program to Lee County after 53 years in Orlando.

During the inaugural season at Hammond Stadium, the Twins set a Grapefruit League attendance record, achieved the best spring training record in history at 21-10, and went on to win the 1991 World Championship.

LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM | MARCH 2012

27

SPRING TRAINING The Red Sox began training in Fort Myers at City of Palms Park in 1993, having formerly held spring training in Winter Haven. JetBlue Park, a $78 million project funded by tourist taxes, was built in ten months and features 26 percent more seating than City of Palms.

Located at 11581 Daniels Parkway, JetBlue mirrors Fenway Park, including the 37-foot-high “Green Monster” wall and vintage Fenway items like a manual scoreboard and retro seats. In total, the ballpark accommodates 11,000 fans, including standing room and berm.

Pablo Adorno, who manages the facility, is confident both players and fans will be impressed. “This place is unbelievable,” he said.

The biggest advantage to Adorno’s staff is having all Red Sox facilities in the same complex.

Previously, players trained and practiced at the Five-Plex Player Development Facility before heading to exhibition games at City of Palms Park.

“Having everything at one location makes staffing much easier,” Adorno said.

Although years in the making, the new training facility is somewhat

“IT IS A CLEAN, FAN-FRIENDLY BALLPARK”

28

MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

symbolic of the current Red Sox team, which is in the midst of a rebuilding year with a new manager, new general manager and several new players.

The state-of-the-art training facilities, including a rehabilitation center, will be busy year-round. After the Red Sox head back to Boston the first week of April, JetBlue will be home to their rookie team, the Gulf Coast League Red Sox.

facade designed to invoke the feeling of Churchill Downs.

Hammond has been recognized as one of Baseball America’s Top Five spring training facilities, featuring roomy box seats just a few feet from the action, a popular Beer Garden and a picturesque Fountain Plaza. Children enjoy the Kids Zone on the veranda, while many fans flock to the Bullpen

Even before construction was completed, Adorno started getting calls from organizations interested in booking the venue for amateur baseball tournaments, concerts and soccer tournaments.

“It’s going to be tricky scheduling everything, but we’ll make it work,” he said.

Located at the Lee County Sports Complex at 14100 Six Mile Cypress Parkway, the Twins’ Hammond Stadium seats 7,500 fans, with an exterior

Picnic Pavilion for photographs and player autographs.

“It is a clean, fan-friendly ballpark,” said Keith Blasingim, who manages the facility.

Hammond Stadium also is home to the Twins’ minor league affiliate, The Fort Myers Miracle, along with the Gulf Coast League Twins in the rookies.

The Twins will play their last spring training home game on April 3, with The Miracle’s season opener scheduled for April 6.

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herr This spring, Bloomingdale’s and bloomingdales.com invite shoppers to revive both your personal wardrobe with a must-have assortment of trends and classics that will usher in the new year like never before.

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TRAVEL TR T RAVEL AVEL L

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One thing is for certain — tthere is O no exact definition for “an experience ien of a lifetime”.

According to Lisa Crawford, owner ow of SitInMySeats VIP Tick Tickets and Travel, an experience erie e of o a lifetime is not a specific eve event, seat, destination or route: It is an all encompassing experience rien — a feeling and memory that will last forever and become a part of a person’s history.

“Each Ea person may have a different ent idea of th their trip of a lifetime, but ut the fulfillment of that experience ce will be the same with ith each perso son,” said Crawford.

Laura Hildenbrandt, b dt, Director of Travel Sales & M Marke Marketing with SitIn tInMySeats, agreed.

“A vacation of a lifetime me is defined differently by every person,” on ” Hildenbrandt said. “The reasons forr taking the trip can be different, but the th end result should be the same — th hat they have had their dreams exceed ded and, perhaps, did something they never even thought was an optio tion!”

When it comess tto plannin ng these exceptional experiences erie a skilled agent is indispensable age indispensable. Th he staff at SitInMySeats Sit MySeats VIP Tick Tickets and Travel has a rock-solid reputa reputation, ion, decades of experience and a la laser ser focus on amazing client nt service.

In recent nt months, VIP clients of SitInMySeats MySeats h have found themselves es calling on all seven continents, renting a chalet in Switzerland, visiting all the new Seven Wonders of the World, photographing the Big Five animals on an Africa safari, renting a private island, dropping into a Tuscany vineyard by way of hot-air balloon, vine chartering an 80 ft yacht on the Amalfi Coast and dining through Paris’ bestt

34

restaurants.

Currently, ntl the th luxury advisors dvis at SitInMySeats ySeats Sea are ar customizing a private, castle cu astle tourr of Ireland nd for a llocaall couple, including ing experiencces and accommodat mm ations not offten ten heard off when choosing cch to visiit the Emerald ld Isle.

How w about this for an “out “o of the t box” ox” experience? SitInMyS SitInM nMySeatss is designing a private, ate, luxury vac vacatio atio on in Italy this coming summer, that ffollo ows ws Bruce Springsteen n as he tou t urs u the t country, simultaneously eously weav weavin ing over the top cultural and culinar culin ulin ry action into the VIP client’s trip. rip.

Since all of these trips ps tread d exotic and/or uncharted terr territory, an expert is essential. Our team also travels quite a bit, taking taki in experiences in every corner orn of the globe imaginable! Currently, urrently, we have team members w embers traveling rav throughout Asia, a, Europe, E Australia and the Middle Midd East.

“When Whe dealing aling with our VIP clients, ent we strive to establish a substa antial amount of trust.

Ourr clients c ne need to feel at homee with us as the they place their leisurre dreams am ms int into our hands. Thereforre, we liste li listen closely and create uniq que and personalized experiences for each e individual div client”, says Crawford.

Lisaa goe goes on to o say, say “we are iinvollved ed in ssomething that at w we love; we creeate dreams for people. We make ama dre azing things happen and tailor memo ories to last a lifetime. We help clie ents eexperience things that are above and beyond what they can even imagine. b Our goal is simple..happy clients and new clients referred to us by the happy ones!”.

MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

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LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM | MARCH 2012

35

BUSINESS&money

Despite Rocky Climate, Banks Committed to Community

BY JIM FREER

BANK PHILANTHROPY

Even during the recent recession and the slow recovery that has followed, many civic and charitable organizations and other non-profits have not experienced a downturn in support from the banking industry.

That includes Broward and Lee Counties where large multistate banks and locally based banks have long been among the leaders in providing financial support and volunteer service by employees.

In Estero, Iberia Bank takes pride in its community involvement supporting ArtFest Fort Myers, United Way of Lee County and Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida among a myriad of other community donations.

Similarly, Finemark National Bank and Florida Gulf Bank are also involved in Estero and Lee County community endeavors.

Executives can be seen serving on chamber boards and the boards of other non-profits.

One example is The Pantry of Broward, which provides food and support services to senior citizens who are in need.

No matter the economic climate, numerous banks have remained important supporters with contributions of money and volunteer work in food drives and other programs, said Catherine “Penny” Loughan, CEO of The Pantry of Broward.

In particular, Loughan said that Bank of America “been our

36

LORI CHEVY

“IN AN EFFORT TO MAKE OPPORTUNITY POSSIBLE FOR ORGANIZATIONS THAT ADDRESS CRITICAL SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC NEEDS LIKE HUNGER, I AM PROUD THE BANK HAS PROVIDED SUPPORT TO THIS OUTSTANDING ORGANIZATION.” biggest cheerleader.”

Lori Chevy, Bank of America’s market president for Broward County. said: “In an effort to make opportunity possible for organizations that address critical social and economic needs like hunger, I am proud the bank has provided support to this outstanding organization,” Like many other banks, Bank of America bases its decisions on where to spend philanthropic dollars largely on what it sees as the potential impact throughout

MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

a local community.

The Pantry of Broward’s impact is over several generations of families because many of its services are for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren.

Banks generally do not release localized data on their contributions to charitable and civic organizations, schools, hospitals, museums, performing arts centers and various other non-profits.

Lynne Wines is president of First Southern Bank and is the current chairman of the United Way of Broward County.

She said First Southern has maintained its levels of community support and that the banking industry has remained a major supporter of the United Way. First Southern is headquartered in Boca Raton and has two branches in Broward County.

“Maybe some banks have had to cut back a bit on financial support (for non-profits),” Wines said. “But I don’t think there have been any reductions in man and woman hours. Bankers realize how much their support is needed.”

The real estate crisis has led to a significant downturn in overall bank earnings, and surviving banks are more tightly monitoring their charitable contributions and other spending.

The nation’s banking industry

BUSINESS&money

had a composite net loss of $9.8 billion in 2009 but has since been slowly returning to profitability, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.

Banks based in Florida had composite annual net losses between 2008 and 2010 before they began posting quarterly profits last year, according to the FDIC. But many banks are still earning less than prior to the recession and still spending considerable time and money on workouts of problem real estate loans.

One constant factor in good times and bad is that banks’ civic and charitable donations and services help them comply with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA).

That federal law requires banks to have programs that provide loans and other services to low-income and moderate-income individuals and individuals within their geographic markets.

Another constant is that officials of non-profits should have precise answers when bankers ask for details about operations, goals and services— especially overhead costs.

“We need to know the extent of service to the local community, and how many dollars go all the way through to those who are supposed to benefit,” said Cyril “Sid” Spiro, chairman of Regent Bank which is based in Davie.

Regent can find that information partly because Spiro and other Regent officials are members of boards of directors of several Broward civic and charitable organizations.

That includes the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of

how they will make an impact in local communities” said Coley, whose bank is headquartered in Winston-Salem, N.C, “We are allocated funding and we make decisions on spending locally, here and in our other markets,” he said.

Support for educational programs is among BB&T’s priorities.

“This is an investment to help young people, and it is for the long term,” Coley said.

“When people can do better in life, it can help build a better community.”

Coley’s civic activities include the Broward Alliance, where he is a member of the board directors.

“Our involvement in the community also is a catalyst for branding and for bringing business into the bank,” he said.

Education, affordable housing and community development are primary areas for Wells Fargo Bank’s civic support, said Jane Gilbert, the bank’s community affairs officer for South Florida.

Wells Fargo, based in San Francisco, gained its first branches in Florida when it bought Wachovia Bank in 2008. It changed signs on those branches last year.

“The community programs we added (from the merger) are very similar to what we have had at Wells Fargo.” Gilbert said.

She said Wells Fargo increased its community affairs financial contributions in South Florida in 2011, compared with 2010.

In 2011, Wells Fargo contributed nearly $3.5 million and its employees volunteered more than 10,000m hours in support of non-profits and schools in South Florida.

BANK PHILANTHROPY LYNNE WINES

“MAYBE SOME BANKS HAVE HAD TO CUT BACK A BIT ON FINANCIAL SUPPORT (FOR NON-PROFITS),” WINES SAID. “BUT I DON’T THINK THERE HAVE BEEN ANY REDUCTIONS IN MAN AND WOMAN HOURS. BANKERS REALIZE HOW MUCH THEIR SUPPORT IS NEEDED.”

Commerce, of which Spiro is a former chairman.

“We provide donations and we tell our employees to assist with programs and to don’t be just a member,” he said.

Working with civic groups brings Regent into contact with other businesses that can become its clients, Spiro said.

Meanwhile, some Regent clients have learned about and joined civic groups through their dealings with the bank.

BB&T has a review process, using information from its bankers and clients, before it determines levels of support for civic groups, said Antonio (Tony) Coley, the bank’s city executive for Broward.

“We need to see how our dollars will be leveraged and

LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM | MARCH 2012

37

BIZprofile

BRAD PRESSINTIN BRAD PRESSENTIN

BRAD PRESSENTIN IS A TEAM PLAYER – BOTH ON AND OFF THE COURT. So it’s no surprise that March is a busy time for the Parkland resident. Not only is college basketball at its peak of excitement with March Madness, but Hard Rock Vodka is expanding into 13 additional markets.

Pressentin accepted the role as the National Sales Director for Hard Rock Vodka and Silver Dagger Vodka in 2009.

Both vodkas are owned by Ultimate/ Altitude Beverages and Pressentin’s role is to make both vodkas household names.

Silver Dagger is served from a striking, sleek bottle decorated with a raised silver dagger. Keeping with the time-honored symbol of the silver dagger as a badge of honor, Silver Dagger Vodka is designed to reflect and enhance the appreciation for fine spirits.

Hard Rock Vodka was introduced in Florida in fall 2011 with a star-studded grand launch event. It has since made a splash in retail locations, hotels, bars and restaurants throughout Florida, and Pressentin will now oversee the brand’s expansion throughout the United States, including California, Nevada, Arizona, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Maryland, Virginia, Delaware,

38

West Virginia and Tennessee.

“You have to know and believe in what you are doing,” said Pressentin. “Hard Rock Vodka is a premium, world class vodka imported from England, distilled from the highest quality grain and filtered six times for exceptional smoothness and taste. Similarly, Silver Dagger is distilled through a Terrepure patented process.

This combination of filtration and oxidation reveals a smoother, more refined spirit.”

Pressentin’s knowledge and passion for what he does extends into his role as an NCAA referee. He’s been a basketball fan for as long as he can remember - playing on various recreational, high school and college sports teams for several years.

When he realized he was not able to play as much anymore, he knew he had to find another way to stay connected.

He began officiating in 1979 for public and private high school state tournaments in Wisconsin, where he attended college.

During his time in Wisconsin, he officiated for more than 20 high school competitions, including championship games.

In 1986, Pressentin officiated Division II and III college basketball games in the Midwest, and he has since been a referee

MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

in more than 12 league championship games.

Pressentin currently works Division I, II and III including the Big Ten Conference, Horizon League, Sunshine State League and other various leagues in and around the county.

“I definitely have to train year-round just to make sure I’m in the best physical shape I can be,” he says. “I have to keep up with some of the best collegiate players in the country.”

With more than three decades of experience and more than 2,000 games called, Pressentin has a lot of great experiences to look back on. From officiating the Division III Final Four in 1999 and 2005 to being on the court during the Division II Elite 8 in 2002. But his favorite experience to date? His first Big Ten game.

“It was at Wisconsin,” he said. “I was going to the game as a fan when I got a call from the head of officials who told me that one of the officials was having travel issues and wouldn’t be there to start the game. I worked the first half and did a great job. That led me to being hired as a full-time staff member.”

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CALENDAROFevents

ESTERO EVENTS MARCH 2012

HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP? Email us at info@lifestylemagazinegroup.com

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts (239) 597-1900 or thephil.org

for the Arts (239) 597-1900 or thephil.org

MARCH 6 FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts (239) 597-1900 or thephil.org

MARCH 16-17 SWFL SYMPHONY: BEHIND THE MASK Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall (239) 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com

MARCH 6-25 RED Florida Repertory Theatre (239) 332-4488 or floridarep. org

MARCH 16-18 DISNEY ON ICE: TOY STORY 3 Germain Arena, Estero (800) 745-3000 or germainarena.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

MARCH 1-4 LA CAGE AUX FOLLES Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts (239) 597-1900 or thephil.org MARCH 1-31 BRIGADOON Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre (239) 278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com MARCH 3-31 ZAP! POW! BAM! SUPERHERO EXHIBIT Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs (239)495-8989 or artcenterbonita.org MARCH 3 VINTAGE CAR SHOW Koreshan State Historic Site, Estero (239) 481-8321 or floridastateparks.org/ koreshan MARCH 4 DISNEY LIVE! PHINEAS AND FERB Germain Arena, Estero (800) 745-3000 or germainarena.com MARCH 5 GENE KRUPA STORY Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre (239) 278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com RUSSIAN BALLET: SWAN LAKE

40

MARCH 7-11 MY FAIR LADY Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall (239) 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com MARCH 8-APRIL 29 GREAT AMERICAN TRAILER PARK MUSICAL Off Broadway Palm Theatre (239) 278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com MARCH 10 TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA Germain Arena, Estero (800) 745-3000 or germainarena.com MARCH 11 HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS Germain Arena, Estero (800) 745-3000 or germainarena.com

MARCH 17 SW FLORIDA READING FESTIVAL 10 am-4 pm at Harborside Event Center, Ft. Myers www.readfest.org RELAY FOR LIFE OF ESTERO 12 pm-6 pm at Estero Community Park ANTIQUE ENGINE SHOW Koreshan State Historic Site, Estero (239)481-8321 or floridastateparks.org/ koreshan MARCH 17-18 LOVE LETTERS Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts (239) 597-1900 or thephil.org

(239) 278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com MARCH 20 NEW YORK TENORS Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall (239) 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com MARCH 21 FT MYERS FILM FEST: RED CARPET OPENING NIGHT Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall (239) 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com MARCH 22 ERIC CHURCH Germain Arena, Estero (800) 745-3000 or germainarena.com MARCH 23 DOO WOP ROCK N’ ROLL Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall (239) 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com MARCH 23-24 LUCIE ARNAZ Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts (239) 597-1900 or thephil.org MARCH 24 BBQ & FAMILY FUN FEST 11 am-9 pm at Estero Community Park Rotary Club of Estero: BBQEstero.org

MARCH 12 THE MOODY BLUES Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall (239) 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com THREE REDNECK TENORS Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre (239)278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com MARCH 13 ELTON JOHN Germain Arena, Estero (800) 745-3000 or germainarena.com MARCH 16 RICKY SKAGGS & KY THUNDER WITH NPO Naples Philharmonic Center

MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

MARCH 18 BONITA SPRINGS CONCERT BAND 2 p.m. at Riverside Park, Bonita Springs MARCH 19 CHARLIE THOMAS & THE DRIFTERS Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre

MARCH 24-25 DOWNTOWN NAPLES FESTIVAL OF ARTS 5th Avenue South, Naples (239) 262-6517 or naplesart.org MARCH 25-30 ARTISTS DEMO: ALAN FLATTMANN/LYNN FERRIS Center for the Arts of

Bonita Springs (239) 495-8989 or artcenterbonita.org MARCH 27-31 RED Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts (239) 597-1900 or thephil.org

JetBlue Park, Ft. Myers boston.redsox.mlb.com

Swanson Stadium fgcuathletics.com

JetBlue Park, Ft. Myers boston.redsox.mlb.com

ESTERO BASEBALL v.

EAST LEE Estero High School (239) 947-9400 or est. leeschools.net/athletics

MARCH 15 TWINS V. PIRATES Hammond Stadium Ft. Myers minnesota.twins.mlb.com

MARCH 24, 26 TWINS V. RAYS Hammond Stadium, Ft. Myers minnesota.twins.mlb.com

RED SOX V. ST. LOUIS JetBlue Park, Ft. Myers boston.redsox.mlb.com

MARCH 25 FL TARPONS V. LAKELAND RAIDERS Germain Arena (239) 225-6374 or floridatarpons.com

CALENDAR OF EVENTS MARCH 16 RED SOX V. TWINS JetBlue Park, Ft. Myers boston.redsox.mlb.com

TWINS V. ORIOLES Hammond Stadium Ft. Myers minnesota.twins.mlb.com

MARCH 16-18 FGCU BASEBALL V. UNF Swanson Stadium fgcuathletics.com MARCH 17 RED SOX V. BALTIMORE JetBlue Park, Ft. Myers boston.redsox.mlb.com

MARCH 28-APRIL 15 WICKED Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall (239) 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com SPORTING EVENTS MARCH 1 ESTERO BASEBALL v.

IMMOKALEE Estero High School (239) 947-9400 or est. leeschools.net/athletics MARCH 1, 2&4 FGCU BASEBALL V. BOSTON COLLEGE Swanson Stadium fgcuathletics.com MARCH 2-3 EVERBLADES V. KALAMAZOO WINGS Germain Arena (239) 948-7825 or floridaeverblades.com MARCH 3 TWINS V. RAYS Hammond Stadium Ft. Myers minnesota.twins.mlb.com MARCH 4 RED SOX VS. MINNESOTA JetBlue Park, Ft. Myers boston.redsox.mlb.com MARCH 5 TWINS V. RED SOX Hammond Stadium Ft. Myers minnesota.twins.mlb.com MARCH 6 RED SOX V. BALTIMORE

MARCH 8 TWINS V. RAYS Hammond Stadium, Ft. Myers minnesota.twins.mlb.com MARCH 9 TWINS V. CARDINALS Hammond Stadium, Ft. Myers minnesota.twins.mlb.com FL TARPONS V. MISS HOUND DOGS Germain Arena (239) 225-6374 or floridatarpons.com RED SOX V. PITTSBURGH JetBlue Park, Ft. Myers boston.redsox.mlb.com MARCH 10 RED SOX V. TAMPA BAY JetBlue Park, Ft. Myers boston.redsox.mlb.com MARCH 11 TWINS V. YANKEES Hammond Stadium, Ft. Myers minnesota.twins.mlb.com MARCH 12 RED SOX V. MIAMI JetBlue Park, Ft. Myers boston.redsox.mlb.com MARCH 13 TWINS V. BLUE JAYS Hammond Stadium Ft. Myers minnesota.twins.mlb.com MARCH 13-14 FGCU BASEBALL V. RUTGERS

MARCH 18 TWINS V. PIRATES Hammond Stadium Ft. Myers minnesota.twins.mlb.com MARCH 19 RED SOX V. TWINS JetBlue Park, Ft. Myers boston.redsox.mlb.com MARCH 20 RED SOX V. TORONTO JetBlue Park, Ft. Myers boston.redsox.mlb.com ESTERO BASEBALL v.

GOLDEN GATE Estero High School (239) 947-9400 or est. leeschools.net/athletics MARCH 21, 23 & 24 EVERBLADES V. SC STINGRAYS Germain Arena (239) 948-7825 or floridaeverblades.com

MARCH 28 TWINS V. PHILLIES Hammond Stadium Ft. Myers minnesota.twins.mlb.com ESTERO BASEBALL v.

MARINER Estero High School (239) 947-9400 or est. leeschools.net/athletics MARCH 28, 30 &31 EVERBLADES V. GWINNETT GLADIATORS Germain Arena (239) 948-7825 or floridaeverblades.com MARCH 29 ESTERO BASEBALL v. LELY Estero High School (239) 947-9400 or est. leeschools.net/athletics RED SOX V. TORONTO JetBlue Park, Ft. Myers boston.redsox.mlb.com MARCH 30 TWINS V. RED SOX Hammond Stadium, Ft. Myers minnesota.twins.mlb.com MARCH 31 TWINS V. PIRATES Hammond Stadium, Ft. Myers minnesota.twins.mlb.com

MARCH 22 TWINS V. ORIOLES Hammond Stadium, Ft. Myers minnesota.twins.mlb.com RED SOX V. NY YANKEES JetBlue Park, Ft. Myers boston.redsox.mlb.com MARCH 23-25 FGCU BASEBALL V. ETSU Swanson Stadium fgcuathletics.com MARCH 24 RED SOX V. PHILADELPHIA LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM | MARCH 2012

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DININGstyle

figs grille

FIGS GRILLE STORY DINING

BY LAURA CUMMINGS

DON’T MISS: TAGINE

42

“Mediterranean fusion” is how executive chef Sam Tadros describes the flavors melded to create his newest restaurant, Figs Grille. Featuring the best cuisine from three continents, Figs is unlike any other dining experience in the area.

A native of Cairo, Egypt, Tadros went back to his roots for the foundation of this tantalizing trip through the Mediterranean. He harmoniously mingles the spices of the Middle East with the rich sauces of France and Italy, along with the earthiness of Spain and Morocco.

The first thing you notice about Figs is the richness of its decor. Egyptian tapestries and sheer, golden curtains hang on the walls while booths feature large, plush chairs and regal burgundy pillows.

The softly lit dining area is illumined by stunning Egyptian chandeliers, with rays of light passing through dozens of tiny circles cut into the brass.

The dining room has an open feel with ample space between tables. Tapestries help to muffle noise, keeping the dining experience intimate.

On the patio, guests enjoy the sounds of soft Mediterranean music and flowing water from the lighted fountain.

The restaurant was named after the fig, a favorite Mediterranean fruit which makes an appearance in several of the restaurant’s succulent dishes. “Figs have beautiful flavor,” Tadros noted affectionately. “When you blend them with port wine, it becomes unbelievable.”

Tadros often greets his guests at the door and mingles with patrons throughout the course of their meal, ensuring the experience is exceptional. The friendly wait staff is attentive, quickly bringing a choice of bottled or tap water and a bread basket with rolls, along with soft and crispy pita bread and a “can’t get enough” dipping sauce.

The restaurant also features a full wine cellar in a glass-enclosed room attractively showcasing the nearly one hundred wines and champagnes available from around the globe.

Our culinary journey through the Mediterranean began with appetizers of Tuna Ceviche and Chevre, a pan-fried goat cheese served with arugula, grilled figs with port wine and lingonberry reduction.

The lingonberry balances out the earthiness

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MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

of the soft goat cheese, while the figs supply a pleasing sweetness to the flavorful dish.

The Tuna Ceviche was most impressive, arriving in a large, metal martini glass. Served over arugula, the scrumptious dish blends sushi-grade tuna, figs, pistachios, red onions, olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime and herbs. The result is a sweet yet nutty flavor with enough kick to make it memorable.

Tadros’ own spice blend includes fourteen different herbs and is used in several of his delectable dishes, particularly Lebanese and Turkish specialties like kebobs and Tagine.

Tagine is a traditional North African dish served in an earthenware pot, complete with a towering, cone-shaped top designed to infuse moisture back into the dish as it cooks.

We tried the Lamb Tagine, with melt-in-your-mouth, tender stewed lamb, complimented by carrots, celery, onion, mushrooms, chickpeas, fresh herbs, lemon preserves and garlic, served over steamed rice.

Our waiter, Adam, was a Moroccan native, and verified the hearty and flavorful dish was true to the cuisine he feasted on as a boy. My dining companion declared it “fabulous” and commented on the generous portion, which left him feeling comfortably full.

The pièce de résistance, however, was the Terra Marvis, an unparalleled fusion of flavors featuring shrimp and filet mignon perfectly complimented by port wine, fig chutney and caramelized onion. When topped with Roquefort -a soft blue cheese from ewe’s milk ripened in limestone caves -- the culinary combination is simply amazing.

We capped off our dinner with soft, creamy Lemon Sorbetto and Chocolate Marquise, a semisweet chocolate mousse topped with crème anglaise and drizzled with raspberry sauce.

Using only the finest ingredients and a hefty dose of culinary creativity, Figs Grille is sure to please discriminating palates.

Figs Grille is located in Bonita Commons at 25987 South Tamiami Trail and is open for dinner daily from 4:30 to 10 p.m. Reservations are recommended by calling (239)3901700. A full menu is available on the restaurant’s website at www.figsgrille.com.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;A thoughtful fusion of Lebanese, Turkish, Morroccan, French, Spanish Cuisine & a touch of Italyâ&#x20AC;?

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Early Dine In for f 2

Figs Grille is the latest creation in Sam Tadrosâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; impressive resume. Born, raised, and educated in ancient Cairo, Egypt. Sam arrived in New Jersey and began his intensive culinary training.

His decade long tenure as Executive Chef paved the way for opening his

success urged him to open the award winning Sam-Bucco Bistro. Now, as they say, third timeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the charm. Sam longed to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Go home againâ&#x20AC;? and share the warmth, culture, and food of his beloved Mediterranean...

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(239) 495-9912 www.ristorantefarfalla.com

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AND

another thing...

AND ANOTHER THING

THE AMERICAN MARKET JUST CHANGED FOREVER...NO ONE NOTICED.

BY BRUCE TURKEL

This year a startling shift is occurring that will change the demographics of the world’s most important market forever. 2012 is the first year in history that non-Hispanic white births in the United States will no longer be the majority.

According to The New York Times, “in the latest sign of the nation’s shifting racial and ethnic composition, births to Asian, black and Hispanic women in the United States are on the verge of surpassing births to non-Hispanic whites.”

Please don’t kick yourself for not noticing. How many people caught up in the wave of history actually see what’s going on while it’s happening? As Marshall McLuhan wrote, “We don’t know who discovered water, but we know it wasn’t the fish.” You see, there’s a reason why hindsight is 20/20. There’s a reason why the words should’ve, would’ve and could’ve are usually accompanied by a Three Stooges’ slap to the forehead.

And there’s a reason why you should pay attention to this new American reality.

It’s no longer enough to look at things the way they were and wonder why. Instead, look at things the way they’re going to be and wonder where? As in, where is the opportunity?

After all, if minorities accounted for 48% of all births in the US in the 12 months that ended in July 2008, then business as usual is no longer business as usual anymore. And if you haven’t changed to embrace these new consumers then, pardon me for saying it, but you’re talking to ghosts. Specifically, the ghosts of markets past.

By the way, before you think this is only a domestic phenomenon, major demographic changes are not just occurring within The United States of America but in all of the Americas. In direct contrast to what is going on in much of the rest of the world, Latin America’s economy is soaring. Mexico and the 19 countries of Central and South America and the Spanish-speaking Caribbean (not including Cuba) are seeing year over year economic growth. And for the first time in history, this hemispheric growth is not simply due to the exploitation of natural resources but directly related to the ascension of the middle class. In fact, this demographics’ purchasing power is surpassing that of the upper classes for the first time ever.

What is required today is bold new creativity and leadership

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MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

based on the realities of the hemisphere the way it’s going to be, not the way it was, and certainly not the way old school marketers would like it to be. What is called for in these exciting yet uncertain times is a new outlook that takes into account the way these emerging consumers pay attention, consume information, make purchase decisions, and ultimately, buy.

It’s not like the clues are always easy to decipher. Way back in 2007, the research firm Information Resources found that salsa outsold ketchup in the United States by $163.4 million. Yet the very same year another market researcher, NPD Group, reported that 48% of households used ketchup in a typical two-week period, three times the number that used salsa. And The Wall Street Journal reported that condiment giant Heinz declined to take a public position, saying instead, “We believe there is room for both in the refrigerator and that consumers don’t view the two products interchangeably.”

Please don’t misunderstand me. I’m not suggesting that simply because these new consumers represent a formerly minority demographic that minority marketing techniques are the right tools to reach them. What I’m suggesting (perhaps “suggesting” is too subtle, perhaps screaming from the mountaintops is a better description of what I’m trying to do here) is that — from advertising to politics, retail to housing — a new understanding of the new majority is essential. Because, if I haven’t made it clear enough so far, these new consumers ARE the majority.

Understanding and embracing these new consumers’ use of technology, language, cultural cues, and financial tools — both online and off — will ultimately determine who will prevail and who will be sitting by the wayside, wondering what the hell just happened.

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