REAL Exclusive Magazine featuring China Smith by REAL Magazine

REAL Exclusive

China Smith All Business

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REAL | letter from the publisher

getREAL Exclusive.com Sensationalism vs Journalism sen·sa·tion·al·ism - The use of shocking details to cause a lot of excitement or interest jour·nal·ism - Writing characterized by a direct presentation of facts or description of events without an attempt at interpretation Thank you Merriam Webster, enough said.

Ed Bertha April 2014 Thank You To Our New Sponsors In This Issue:

REAL Exclusive

Tube Dude, 4, Michael’s on Main, 23, Fashion for a Cause, 24, La Bella Intimates & Boutique, 24.

REAL Exclusive Properties

Lynn Luken – Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, 11.

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Lotus Southpointe www.lotussouthpointe.com

SOUTHPOINTE

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10, 34 | REAL LUXURY 2015 Porsche Macan, By Fred Krasne David Vallone Restorations, By Sheila Brannan Longo

12, 36 | REAL PERSPECTIVES What’s Your Dollar Worth?, By Patricia Tan Determining Cause, Who is to Blame?, By William Henry, PhD

14, 15 | REAL NEWS La Bella Intimates & Boutique Opens In Sarasota We’ve Got Style Launches “Fashion for a Cause” Michael’s on Main Opens in Sarasota Beginning to End Interiors Wins National Award Suncoast Charities for Children Thunders Tube Dude to Voluntarily Return County Grant

16, 20 | REAL CARES 2024 Alameda Avenue featuring Suncoast Charities for Children 1261 Riegels Landing Drive featuring Boys and Girls Clubs

18 | REAL ARCHITECTURE Bill Tagland, By Lalaena Gonzalez-Figueroa

22 | REAL STYLE

China Smith 26 | ALL BUSINESS

“Fashion for a Cause” is in the Air, By Becca Smith

32 | REAL BEAUTY Vintage Hair, By Sheila Venancia

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living room dining room bedroom outdoor

un iq ue re source i n Flo r id a o ver 50 luxury brands t o choo s e F r o m Wh ite g lo ve shipping t hro ughou t th e u .s .

getREAL Exclusive.com Executive Publisher

Contributing Writers

Ed Bertha (941) 921.2117 EdBertha@GetRealExclusive.com

Lalaena Gonzalez-Figueroa Kacey C. Krznaric Kerrie Lehnert Sheila Brannan Longo

Cover & Masthead Photography Giovanni Lunardi

Photography Giovanni Lunardi Chad Spencer

Circulation Andrick & Associates

Printing Manatee Printers, Inc.

Creative Director Christian Lunardi

Design & Layout

Production REAL Exclusive Magazine, Inc.

Denichi Designs - www.denichidesigns.com

REAL Exclusive is produced monthly by REAL Exclusive Magazine, Inc. Principal office: 229 South Osprey Avenue, Suite 106, Sarasota, FL 34236. COPYRIGHT ÂŠ 2014 REAL EXCLUSIVE MAGAZINE. All content copyrighted. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Although precautions are taken to ensure the accuracy of published materials, REAL Exclusive cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. All listing information published in REAL Exclusive is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Contact agent or builder directly to verify listing information which is subject to change.

WEBSITE: www.GetRealExclusive.com RSS feeds, current and past issues, links to sponsors, an event calendar, unique editorial, a blog and additional information on the community at large. SUBSCRIPTIONS: Please call 941.921.2117, write 229 South Osprey Avenue, Suite 106, Sarasota, FL 34236 or visit www.GetRealExclusive.com, $24.95/year. ADVERTISING: Please call 941.921.2117, write 229 South Osprey Avenue, Suite 106, Sarasota, FL 34236 or visit www.GetRealExclusive.com. POSTMASTER: Please send notices on Form 3579 to Andrick & Associates, 4400 Independence Court, Sarasota, FL 34234. Standard mail paid in Sarasota, Florida

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Any resemblance to the car of your dreams is purely intentional. It wears its heritage proudly on its sleeves. And fenders. And roofline. Introducing the Porsche Macan S. With a 340-horsepower twin-turbo V6, standard PDK transmission and active all-wheel-drive for maximum grip in most conditions, the Macan S is built around our defining belief that every drive should be unforgettable. And every car should be a sports car. Dream fulfillment begins with a test drive. Porsche. There is no substitute.

The new 2015 Macan S

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REAL | luxury

THE 2015 PORSCHE MACAN: FIVE DOORS. NO BOX. THE MACAN CONCEPT BY FRED KRASNE

Create a compact Sport SUV? No, Porsche would rather think outside the box. Porsche created what we always create: a True Sports Car. But this time with 5 doors, 5 seats, all-wheel drive, and yet still intimate with the road; boasting plenty of space for hobbies, leisure, and sport. But left no room for compromise. Compact, Concentrated, and Intensive, but all still Powerful. This is a sports SUV that generates what we’re looking for: that feeling of being alive. For 2013 total Porsche sales was 42,323, a 21 percent overall increase over 2012. This new sports SUV will push total Porsche national annual sales volume to 100,000 units by 2018. The new Porsche Macan will start arriving in our showroom in late April 2014 and this highly anticipated Porsche will not disappoint. Porsche creates sports cars and for Porsche, power output is not the be all and end all. Emotions are the main development objective: the driving feel that only a genuine Porsche can provide. With considerable agility and driving dynamics, but always with responsibility in mind. Porsche achieves these goals for example, by using highly efficient engines, outstanding driving features and the relentless will to push boundaries - upwards. The new Macan Turbo is one result of this way of thinking. Its 3.6 liter twin-turbo V6 engine promises a spine - tingling experience and superior performance figures: 400 hp. 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds (4.4s with Sport Chrono Package) and an impressive top track 10 | REAL EXCLUSIVE | GetRealExclusive.com

speed of 164 mph - all combined with a high degree of efficiency. This, incidentally, is a fundamental principle of all Macan models. The Macan S comes with a 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged V6, with a power output of 340 hp, it sprints from 0-60 mph in only 5.2 seconds. Top track speed of 156 mph . All the Macan models come with the incredible PDK 7 speed twin clutch transmission that shifts gears in a micro fraction of a second, and can be driven fully automatic or in manual mode like a true sports car. These vehicles can be ordered to your exact order specifications and the process of designing, ordering, building, and ultimately taking delivery is a thrilling experience. Stop in to experience the new Macan, life intensified.

“ Porsche would rather think outside the box....”

FRED KRASNE SUNCOAST PORSCHE (941) 923-1700 FKRASNE@SUNSETAUTOGROUP.COM

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REAL | perspectives WHAT’S YOUR DOLLAR WORTH? CURRENCY CONSIDERATIONS FOR INTERNATIONAL INVESTORS In addition to looking at the real estate investment itself, an overseas investor must also consider the relative strength of the U.S. dollar against their home currency. Consideration has to be given to this at the time of purchase, and also at the projected time of sale. This adds a whole layer of complexity to the purchase and sale of U.S.A. real estate. Currency exchange rates, the relative value of one currency versus another, are constantly changing. A major shift in an exchange rate during a real estate transaction can have a significant impact. Let’s consider the following example: In late August 2012, a European buyer’s offer to buy a to-be-built home at $300,000 was accepted. At this time, the Euro was trading around $1.22. The investor, who traditionally thinks in his home currency, believes he is paying 245,901 Euros for the property. The sale closes in mid-January, by which time the Euro is trading at $1.34. When the investor converts the purchase price to Euros on the day of closing, he is actually paying €223,880 for the property – a saving of €22,021 or almost 9% of the purchase price calculated only a few months earlier. While this story has a happy ending as the currency moved in the investor’s favor, consider how the investor may have felt if the movement was in the other direction, or if he was the seller and making less money on the

By Patricia Tan

sale than he had anticipated. The moral of this story is that we should never under estimate the impact that currency exchange can have on a real estate transaction and the level of return an international investor may see from his investment. Investors will consider what the exchange rate may be in the future, but without a crystal ball it is difficult for them to assess this risk. Whether the investor is buying or selling, the best possible advice I can offer is to plan early for currency exchange. Take an interest in what rates are doing, and the economic events that may influence a rate in one direction or another. There are many internet resources which can be used to gather data and opinions, but savvy investors will use specialist currency services to help them manage risk and plan for the future. A specialist currency company can help in a number of ways. • Forward planning for currency needs. A currency specialist will allow you to “lock-in” a favorable exchange rate now and benefit from that rate for up to two years into the future. Fixing an exchange rate into the future will help with budget planning and making regular payments such as HOA fees. • More attractive exchange rates. Even a

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Patricia Tan Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate (941) 504.9232 Pat@PatriciaTan.com

change of 1% in the exchange rate can mean a big dollar impact on the price of a property or profits realized from it. A currency specialist typically operates on much lower margins than a bank, and some of my customers have saved up to 6% by simply shopping around for the best exchange rate. • Exchange rates change constantly. Working with a currency advisor allows funds to be exchanged at the best possible moment. Some companies allow a target rate to be set. Once the rate reaches the target, an investor’s funds are traded automatically. • Transfer of funds from one country to another is usually achievable at a lower cost using a currency specialist. • The time taken to get money across borders may be reduced, as the currency specialist is transferring directly to your desired destination, rather than working through a third party correspondent bank for instance. Overseas buyers and sellers of real estate will most certainly benefit from monitoring the currency market and planning early for their needs to move funds from one currency to another.

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REAL | news LABELLA INTIMATES & BOUTIQUE LOCATES 2ND STORE IN SARASOTA Santa LaBellman recently opened LaBella Intimates & Boutique in the Whole Foods complex in downtown Sarasota. Labella Intimates purveys bras, panties, loungewear, sleepwear, shapewear, men’s underwear, women’s clothing and accessories from such brands as Hanro, Fleurt, Panache and Saxx.

Chargrilled Oysters - Our signature oyster charbroiled over an open flame and topped with our unique white wine garlic herb butter sauce.

LaBellman shares, “I believe that most women do not know how to select the right size bra to fit their shape so I offer complimentary bra fittings to each of my customers.” La Bella Intimates carries an exclusive and extensive European selection of bras ranging from size A cup to K cup in bands 30 through 50 that is not sold anywhere else in the U.S. LaBella Intimates is located at 1415 1st Street, Sarasota, FL 34236. Hours M-F 11AM - 5:30PM SAT 10AM - 5PM. Available after hours by appointment only.

Santa LaBellman (941) 366.4477 www.labellaintimates.com

WE’VE GOT STYLE LAUNCHES “FASHION FOR A CAUSE” Becca Smith, Founder of We’ve Got Style, announced the launch of “Fashion for a Cause” where fashion takes center stage in an effort to support charitable organizations assisting women and children in need and individuals impacted by breast cancer. Of her desire to give back Smith remarks, “As I grow older I discovered that I have two hands: one for helping myself and the second for others.” In April the focus is on the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County with two “Fashion for a Cause” events: “Art meets Fashion” Wednesday, April 2nd at Michaels on Main and “Get Intimate with LaBella” Thursday, April 24th at LaBella Intimates & Boutique. Come support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota from 5PM-8PM for an evening of fun (d) raising, fashion, entertainment, refreshments, door prizes & raffle. “Fashion for a Cause” is sponsored by REAL Exclusive Magazine.

Surf and Turf - 6oz filet served over our homemade crabcake topped with bernaise and fresh lump crab meat.

Becca Smith (941) 893.5299 beccarealstyle@gmail.com

SARASOTA BECOMES MICHAEL’S ON MAIN 2ND LOCATION

Wild berry infused Martini Homemade wild berry infused vodka, fresh sweet & sour and Chambord.

NEW LOCATION!

Janice Gould Half Shell Seafood House (941) 955.5900 5231 University Pkwy www.michaelsonmain.us Bradenton, FL 34201 (941) 952-9400 14 | REAL EXCLUSIVE | GetRealExclusive.com www.HalfShellSeafoodHouse.com

Janice Gould has opened Michael’s on Main in downtown Sarasota. Michael’s on Main features established artists from across the country, as well as introducing emerging local talent. The art spans all media demonstrating an expansive diversity in style and artistic expression, including photography, oil paintings, fabric collages, pottery, metalwork, knives, artisan custom jewelry and “wearable art” with unique one of kind fashion garments and accessories; Old Gringo Boots, embellished jeans/tops and much more “ Gould offers, “I believe that a gallery is not meant to be viewed, but experienced. We are here to assist our clients in expressing their own inner beauty and creativity. Michael’s on Main is where Fashion is an art and Art is fashionable.” Michael’s on Main can ship worldwide and is located at 1484 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236. Hours Mon-Thurs 10AM - 7PM Fri-Sat 10AM - 9PM Sun 12PM - 6PM.

BEGINNING TO END INTERIORS WINS NATIONAL AWARD Beginning to End Interiors was the recipient of the 2013 Designer of the Year award from the Interior Design Society. B2End Interiors took First Place for their kitchen entry in the above $50,000 category. Designed for an arts-oriented, community-minded couple, the kitchen involved a total transformation. The B2End team made several structural changes to the space, replaced almost everything and incorporated several pieces by local artists. The new kitchen is fully functional and looks like a work of art in and of itself.

B2End (941) 924.4481 www.b2end.com

B2End Interiors is southwest Florida’s premier full service design firm and one-stop shop for home interiors. They create custom home furnishings with high end details. Their location in Sarasota, FL has over 3,700 sq. ft. and is home to an expansive showroom and a workroom where custom window treatments are fabricated on-site. Beginning to End Interiors is committed to cutting-edge home innovations and provide their clients with trusted technological advancements in the design industry, including home automation and motorized window treatments.

SUNCOAST CHARITIES FOR CHILDREN THUNDERS Suncoast Charities for Children announced that 2014’s Thunder by the Bay raised over $150,000 for the charity. For our community the direct and indirect overall economic impact of the Motorcycle Festival was calculated at $7.4 Million (an 8.7% increase from 2013) and generated 5,400 room nights in area lodgings (up from 2,900 in 2013).

SCFC

Suncoast Charities for Children has constructed over $14 Million in facilities (totaling 73,000 square feet) serving children with special needs. Their support enables the charitable organizations utilizing these facilities to only pay $1 per year in rent. Suncoast Charities for Children continues to maintain these facilities and supports special project requests with proceeds raised through special events and festivals held throughout the year. With Suncoast Charities for Children’s support agencies can direct their program and service funding directly towards the children and clients they serve.

(941) 706.3795 www.suncoastcharitiesforchildren.org

TUBE DUDE TO VOLUNTARILY RETURN COUNTY GRANT Scott Gerber, Tube Dude founder, recently signed an agreement to reimburse Sarasota County the $56,000 he received in 2011 from an Economic Development Grant (EDG). The reimbursement is set for 6 $9,333 installments concluding at the end of the EDG period. The 1st payment was made February 28, 2014. “Returning the grant was my decision. It got to the point I didn’t want the county’s money. That’s why I didn’t file for the additional employees (5) we hired,” shares Gerber. “I first approached the county in early November (2013). This took some time to consummate as the county wasn’t prepared for the return of the grant. The funds I am returning met the criteria for distribution,” he adds.

Scott Gerber (941) 735.6009 scott@tube-dude.com

Gerber’s grant specified the release of $56,000 upon proof of capital equipment purchases in excess of $50,000 to expand the business and $1,000 per new employee hired (to a max of $44,000). Gerber had 2 more years to create the 44 jobs and indicated he could meet that requirement.

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REAL | cares

2024 ALAMEDA AVENUE FEATURING SUNCOAST CHARITIES FOR CHILDREN

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Hosted by: Gabriele Charity Rudi Weiss CHARITY & WEISS International Realty Sponsored by: Chillounge Night Gold Coast Eagle Distributing Koontz & Associates Koontz Parkin CPAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Liquor Locker Suncoast Motorsports SUP Sarasota TRVST Security Photography by: CMS Photography

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REAL | architecture

BILL TAGLAND: DESIGN FOR LIFE By Lalaena Gonzalez-Figueroa | Photography by Chad Spencer

“Bill’s emphasis on the details reflects his commitment...”

His ability to successfully marry technical details with imaginative design has driven the flourishing career of architect Bill Tagland. The New Jersey native has integrated himself into the fabric of Sarasota’s communities with homes that are as rich and diverse as the area’s residents. His innovative approach engages clients from the onset; Bill thrives on the challenge of bringing the visions of others to light. He launched his solo career through tenacity and talent, though Bill accrued critical field experience well before he earned his professional license. “My uncle was an architect, and I started doing grunt work for him when I was twelve years old,” he recalls. Eventually he began to contribute his own designs, overnighting drawings from his college digs in Chicago. “The passion for houses has always been there,” Bill reveals. A recently rediscovered sketchbook supports this; intermingled with drawings of rocket ships and Godzilla, were homes.

Bill Tagland Tagland Bespoke Architecture 3532 San Remo Terrace Sarasota, FL 34239 (941) 993.5300 WTagland@gmail.com www.WilliamTagland.com

Take a minute to explore the hundreds of structures Bill has designed throughout the course of his career, and his creativity becomes immediately evident. “I don’t have a rote set of designs that I modify and adapt,” he says. “Instead, I sit with my clients and work to create a home that will meet their unique lifestyles.” It’s not uncommon, Bill notes, for him to sit down at an initial meeting with a blank roll of sketch paper. “We start talking, and I create a conceptual design in front of them. Of course, we are modifying it as we move forward, but that first drawing is such an exciting process for us. It’s fun, it engages my clients, and it allows them the opportunity to really make the home their own.” Bill’s designs range from classic to whimsical, and while each is a creation unique in itself, there is a nearly imperceptible vein that connects his work. “I strive to make the design timeless,” he explains. “There are exceptions, but I try to avoid a typical look that may date a home.” Thorough research, he adds, is critical to this

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process. “I seek historical references that impact a particular style, and find the enduring elements.” From Tuscanstyle farmhouses, to Nantucketinspired homes, to structures that evoke the British West Indies, Bill’s creations contribute to their respective communities in their beauty, form and function. And while his designs may be found in Orlando’s heralded Celebration, the Bahamas and South Carolina, much of his work is created for clients in communities throughout Sarasota, New Jersey and their surrounding regions. Form and function collaborate in Bill’s designs; he maximizes the use of space and light to create homes that speak to their owners’ lifestyles. “There is always a view,” he observes. “My designs capitalize on the space around them.” An innovative perspective makes the difference. “I designed one home on Bird Key,” Bill recalls. “It was situated on a smaller lot, so we turned the house to sit on an angle.” Rather than opening to their neighbors’ homes, the windows now afford spectacular open views. Bill’s emphasis on the details reflects his commitment to thoughtful design and a collaborative creative process. “There are times when a home is so close,” he intones. “It will be this beautiful structure with the wrong windows. I take the time to address those details, and it shows in the finished product.” The process, he adds, involves ongoing communication between clients, contractors and the design team. When challenges arise, says Bill, the group’s ability to adapt and work together is crucial to the project’s success. “The best homes are built when everyone is on board,” he observes. Bill’s designs are also dotting the regions being rebuilt after the devastation of Hurricane Sandy, and he looks forward to continued work with Sarasota-area clients who seek to build homes that showcase their unique styles. From offbeat to traditional, contemporary to classic, his award winning work is designed for life.

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REAL | cares

1261 Riegels Landing Dr. Featuring Boys and Girls Clubs

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Hosted By: Scott Schuhriemen Florida 1 Realty Sponsored by: Flagstar Bank, Joe Lepiscopo Gold Coast Eagle Distributing Koontz & Associates Liquor Locker Photography by: CMS Photography

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REAL | style

FASHION FOR A CAUSE By Becca Smith

In this REAL Style issue We’ve Got Style introduces us to their “Fashion for a Cause” campaign, sponsored by Women’s Leadership Council and REAL Exclusive Magazine. Fashion takes center stage in an effort to support charitable organizations assisting women and children in need throughout the community, as well as individuals impacted by breast cancer. The focus will be on the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County in April with two Fashion for a Cause events: “Art meets Fashion” Wednesday, April 2nd at Michael’s on Main and “Get Intimate with LaBella” Thursday, April 24th at LaBella Intimates & Boutique. Tap into your inner beauty and support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota from 5PM-8PM for an evening of fun (d) raising, fashion, art, entertainment, refreshments, door prizes, raffle and much more. Two women who have REAL style and exemplify beauty from the inside/out are Michael’s on Main’s Jan Gould and LaBella Intimates & Boutique’s Santa LaBellman. These women believe in the importance of giving back to our community and will host a Fashion for a Cause event in April. Jan Gould is the Owner of Michael’s on Main, where “Art Meets Fashion. Opening early April in Downtown Sarasota at 1484 Main Street, Michael’s On Main fuses fashion and fine art in a single boutique setting. Adding to the Michael’s experience is Manager, Elaine Phillips, who

has years of experience in the fashion industry. The Gallery, which features Michael Gould’s photography, also represents several established artists from across the country, as well as, introduces emerging local talents. The art spans all media demonstrating an expansive diversity in style and artistic expression, including photography, oil paintings, fabric collages, pottery, metalwork, knives, artisan custom jewelry and “wearable art” with unique one of kind fashion garments and accessories; Old Gringo Boots, embellished jeans/tops and much more. This is a second location for Gould. She opened Michael’s on Main at 605 Main Street in Historic Downtown Canon City, Colorado. The original location opened four years ago after the old Harding Hardware building (1908) was completely renovated and transformed into Michael’s on Main, which offers fantastic food, fine art and fashion in a single elegant setting. “Art is truly one of the purest forms of emotional expression. Art cannot be contained on a canvas, but it washes over into all forms of artistic design and expression, whether it’s the contrasting architectural styles of Frank Lloyd Wright or Calatrava, the Feng Shui of a room, the world through a photographer’s lens, the emotions that exude from the paint on a canvas or a face cast in bronze, to the simple grace and elegance expressed by the flowing styles of a designer’s new line. I believe that a gallery is not meant to be viewed, but experienced. We are here to assist our clients in expressing their own inner beauty and creativity. Michael’s

Becca Smith Fashion Stylist/Image Consultant Founder, We’ve Got Style (941) 893-5299 or (941) 223-6643 beccarealstyle@gmail.com www.wevegotstyle.biz 22 | REAL EXCLUSIVE | GetRealExclusive.com

“Fashion takes center stage in an effort to support charitable organizations” on Main is where Fashion is an art and Art is fashionable,” shares Gould. Santa LaBellman, a European-born businesswoman is the owner of “LaBella Intimates & Boutique. She opened as a retail and wholesale operation in Texas in 2009. She quickly needed more space and moved her store to Winter Park, FL where she has grown her brand to be one of the top specialty lingerie stores that specializes in quality, fit and price. Orange Appeal magazine named Santa “The Bra Whisperer” and Orlando Fox 35 News has featured her as a bra expert, as she believes that most women do not know how to select the right size bra to fit their shape so she offers complimentary bra fittings to each of her customers. Santa’s second store at 1415 First Street in downtown Sarasota opened in January of this year. “I am thrilled to bring another quality La Bella Intimates Boutique to the Sarasota community,” said owner La Bellman. “I have been looking for the right city on the west coast of Florida to open my second store and I immediately knew that this was the perfect location.” La Bella Intimates carries an exclusive and extensive European selection of bras ranging from size A cup to K cup in bands 30 through 50 that is not sold anywhere else in the U.S. They also sell panties, loungewear, sleepwear, shapewear, men’s underwear, women’s clothing and accessories from such brands as Hanro, Fleurt, Panache and Saxx.

ART GALLERY | ARTISAN JEWELRY | SPECIALT Y BOUTIQUE

A F U S I O N O F FA S H I O N A N D A RT

Michael’s on Main announces the grand opening of their second location, which is at 1484 Main St. in Sarasota. The original galleria is located in Colorado.

NOW OPEN Michael’s on Main Art Where Fashion is an ble and Art is Fashiona

Michael’s on Main is a fusion of fashion and art, featuring both a fine art gallery and signature fashion styles in a single boutique setting. The Gallery encompasses the entire store, providing clients with the opportunity to view and purchase original works of art from nationally renowned artists as well as local emerging artists. The original gallery in Colorado earned a reputation for presenting extensive diversity in media and artistic style. The new Gallery in Sarasota, which features Michael Gould’s photography, maintains the reputation of artistic diversity in various media, including photography, oil paintings, watercolors, fabric collages, pottery, metal furniture works from Taos, Bronze sculptures, William Henry knives, and elegant artisan custom jewelry. Michael’s on Main boutique focuses on “wearable art”, offering unique, one of kind fashion garments and accessories; Old Gringo Boots; embellished jeans/tops; designer bison handbags; custom belts; Mary Francis beaded handbags; and an extensive jewelry collection created by artisan designers using semi-precious stones and pearls. Art cannot be contained on a canvas, but it washes over into all forms of artistic design and expression. The staff at Michael’s has extensive experience in both the art world and fashion industry. Our philosophy is to listen to our clients and respond to their individual tastes and style. At Michael’s, we believe that a gallery is not meant to be viewed, but experienced. We are here to assist our clients in expressing their own inner beauty, personal style, and creativity. Michael’s on Main is where Fashion is an Art and Art is Fashionable. Michael’s on Main is offering so much more than just shopping. It is all about the experience! Please accept our invitation to “Experience Michael’s on Main!”

1484 Main Street - Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 955.5900 - www.MichaelsOnMain.us

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La Bella Fine Intimate Apparel Intimates & Boutique 1415 1st Street - Sarasota, FL - 34236 (941) 366.4477 - www.LaBellaIntimates.com

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LIQUOR LOCKER

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China Smith Leading By Example

“To become a champion the gym is where it begins”

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By Ed Bertha Photography by Giovanni Lunardi Design by Christian Lunardi

The Dragon September 15, 1978 saw China Smith, Jr. enter this world. Born and raised in Sarasota, China grew up boxing with his father, China Smith, Sr., and playing football. “My dad had me going around running and doing (boxing) drills when I was 3,” he recalls. Although China’s father, who boxed for fun, pushed for him to focus on boxing, China had other thoughts. As a freshman he made the varsity football team at Riverview High School and quickly became one of the top running backs in the nation, amassing 25 touchdowns & over 1,300 yards rushing. As a senior China surprised everyone by turning down scholarships from the University of Florida, Florida State University, University of Miami, Michigan, and Notre Dame in hopes of becoming a professional boxer. Entering the amateur ranks as a young boxer China trained hard and focused on his goal of becoming a premier boxer. He found success quickly, winning the Florida Golden Gloves, Junior U.S. Nationals, a Florida State Tournament title and three Sunshine State Championship titles. “When I was 17, I took on a 26-year-old guy and won the fight,” he says. “My dad and I were like, ‘Might as well go pro and get paid.’” Turning pro at 18, China’s first professional boxing match was held at Sarasota’s Robarts Arena. The town favorite saw more than 1,500 people turned away from the sellout match, of which he won. The 6’ 1” southpaw is known around the world as China Smith, The Dragon.

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Using his speed and power The Dragon breaks down his opponents with concentrated and continuous body blows, usually knocking out his outclassed opponents. The Dragon’s boxing record stands at 34W – 4L – 27KO’s and more importantly includes four boxing championship belts; two National Boxing Association (NBA) World Championships and two NBA

Continental Championships. Quite impressive considering China accomplished all of this by age 34. His dedication and perseverance towards earning multiple boxing championships, his deep community involvement and a willingness to give back has earned China the local nickname, The People’s Champ.

The People’s Champ China’s family owns the oldest minority businesses in Sarasota, the Town Hall Restaurant. Spending plenty of time working at the restaurant he is continually reminded by his family to “Never get too big where you can’t put one of these aprons on,” he says smiling.

“Behind every successful man is a dedicated woman” China with wife Jami A talented fighter, China is sincere and humble. Known as clean-cut (No drinking, smoking or illegal drugs), he’s also known as moral and honorable. A devote family man China shares, “I feel really good about the way I was brought up. I try to be a gentleman first, which I am a gentleman. I will do any positive thing I can do as long as it’s the right thing.” China is certainly a rarity in today’s sports world. Revered in Sarasota as a role model he has received a key to the city and his own China Smith Day parade.

Mentoring kids and young adults China believes in “knocking out negativity”. He encourages students to listen to other people, (especially their parents), stay in school and make wise choices. After years of inspirational speaking to a multitude of crowds, China founded his own non-profit children’s organization, China Smith and Friends. His organization works with at risk children in the community and mentors on a variety of levels. “I had a calling to work with kids. Mr. Kennedy

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(Headmaster at Sarasota Military Academy) believed in my vision and stepped up when no one else would. He gave the kids a great start.” Mr. Kennedy enabled China to organize his first boxing fitness camp at Sarasota Military Academy. Currently he is running a similar boxing fitness program at the Police Athletic League of Manatee County (PAL). At PAL China is taking big steps to knock out negativity in the community by managing The Boxing Extreme Fitness program

“Boxing is 70% mental and 30% physical; you have to believe in yourself”

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“These hands are as good at winning championships as giving back”

for youth and adults. The Boxing Extreme Fitness gym features a large professional weight room, exercise machines, cardio equipment and an open group fitness area. The facility also contains a regulation-sized boxing ring, heavy bags, speed bags and more. It is important to note that getting in the ring is optional in China’s program.

ten in the world as a heavy weight again by the end of the year. Upon achieving this goal he will have the opportunity to earn his third National Boxing Association World Championship. I wish China all the best in coming out on top, a winner once again. In many ways China Smith is the anti-athlete. No attitude, no arrest record, no smack-talk, no bling. How can such a pleasant, smart individual find the aggression demanded in a violent contact sport known as the hurt business? It is China’s inner balance of The Dragon and The People’s Champ, always doing the right thing at the right time.

The Future Recently completing a documentary, “China Smith - The Second Chance”, a story about his life, boxing career and quest to return to the ring to capture a third World Championship, China is releasing a branded clothing line and shooting an online reality TV show. China also launched Team China Smith, a sports marketing organization promoting shows, managing fighters and representing other athletes. “I want others to be able to leverage my knowledge and experience so they have the best

opportunity to succeed. Regarding the kids in my program I want them to far exceed everything I’ve accomplished,” he says steadfastly. Accredited investors are welcome to become part of Team China Smith. If that all weren’t enough China is preparing for boxing’s “chess match” schedule to crack the top

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China Smith P.O. Box 1519 Tallevast, FL 34270 (941) 587.1671 Events@TeamChinaSmith.com www.TeamChinaSmith.com

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6/12/2012 3:41:19 PM

REAL | beauty VINTAGE HAIR: PART 3

By Sheila Venancia

1970’s Like the preceding sixties, the seventies was a diverse decade for hairstyles. New hair styles were being created through experimentation and hair styles were often a direct expression of the clients’ view of society at that time. Women’s 1970’s hairstyles varied from long, soft and feminine to short and androgynous. Nostalgia was big in the 70’s, leading to a look back to various periods, especially the 1920’s through to 1950’s. This “looking back” past eras was seen in fashion, TV shows, films, and music. Long hair had been in vogue since the late 1960’s and its popularity continued through the 1970’s. An early 70’s style, known as the “Shag”, or sometimes the “Ape”, consisted of shorter hair on top combined with longer hair at the back, and lots of layering throughout the hair. It was a unisex, no frills cut that involved evenly-progressing layers with graduated sides and a full fringe. The hair could be straight or curly, but always had a shaggy look to it. It was a popular 70’s hairstyle for both sexes. The “Wedge” was a cut that consisted of short hair with steep-angled layers cut all around the sides and back. This created an almost triangular style that was longer on top, going into a heavily-layered aspect at the back and sides with lots of movement.

“How many of these hair styles have you tried?”

A new style, called “Flicks”, was seen on both short and long hairstyles. They emerged in the early 70’s and became all the rage when Farrah Fawcett was seen in Charlie’s Angels on TV’s all across America. For a splendid flick, a whole new breed of heated styling tools were created for home use.

1980’s

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Do you love the flashy, punk look that dominated the 1980’s? Are you going to an “80s” themed dance and need to look the part? Getting that rad “80s” style is easier than you might think; A few hair accessories and some bright eye makeup might be all it takes! The “80’s” was a decade known for its style. Fashion was playful, big, and fun. The hair styles were no different. Whether you want to make a total

change or just go out for a costume party or an event, it’s easy to capture the spirit of the ‘80’s” by experimenting with your hair. THE SIDE PONYTAIL One of the simplest “80’s” hairstyles that virtually anyone with medium to long hair can pull off is the side ponytail. The higher the ponytail and the bigger the scrunchie, the better this do will look. If you have bangs, try teasing them to their fullest for an added punch of “80’s” playfulness. THE BIG PERM A more permanent “80’s” look is the big perm. Think Madonna/Julia Roberts, full curls. Keep those curls moisturized. If you’re not ready to commit to a perm, you can get temporary curls by using small rollers overnight or using a curling iron. When you want to look classy, simply put on your best dress and pin the curls into a French twist. For a fun, wild look, let that hair flow and wear tight dresses, mini-skirts, thigh high boots or anything else that makes you feel sexy. BIG BANGS Another big tip to remember when going for that “80’s” look is that it’s all about the bangs. The bigger and crazier your bangs are, the better. I suggest teasing your bangs to the max, either straight up or into a feathered style, and then spraying with as much maximum hold hair spray as you can stand. This hairstyle looks best with a simple, t-shirt, jeans or slacks, and basic jewelry and make-up. CRIMPING Crimping is another popular style that can give you that 80s vibe, and it’s incredibly easy to get the look. If you have the time, you can get crimps just by braiding all of your hair into tiny braids and sleeping on them overnight. When you take the braids out in the morning, you’ll have an instant head full of crimps and you can simply spray and go. You can also get the look with any curling iron or flat iron. So, yes, it’s incredibly easy and fun to get the “80’s” look that you want. Don’t be afraid to experiment and to try out even the craziest of styles. You can use articles such as this for inspiration or even watch “80’s” movies or music videos for further ideas.

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Senior Registered Associate Financial Planning Associate 941-364-3583 2 North Tamiami Trail, Suite 1100 Sarasota, FL 34236 941-364-7411 daniel.m.schwartz@ms.com www.morganstanleyfa.com/ daniel.m.schwartz Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC, its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult their tax advisor for matters involving taxation and tax planning and their attorney for matters involving trust and estate planning and other legal matters. ÂŠ 2014 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. GP11-01363P-N09/11 7308353 MAR004 09/12

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REAL | luxury

DAVID VALLONE RESTORATIONS By Sheila Brannan Longo | Photography by Chad Spencer

David Vallone Restorations By Appointment Only (941) 744.2744 DavidVallone@gmail.com www.DavidValloneRestorations.com

“There is a big difference between antique preservation and refinishing...”

Back in 1986, David Vallone worked as a trim carpenter for a high-end builder constructing a home in The Oaks. On the last few days of the job, Vallone noticed some men bringing in a very fine collection of antique furniture that was just restored. Talking with them, he realized restoring antiques would provide more enjoyment than doing construction work, and was hired by them soon afterwards.

of New Mexico, who had previously assisted him on a large gold leaf job on the ceilings of an estate home outside of Buffalo, NY, in the early 1990s. “I was very fortunate to bring Stephanie in to help out on this project,” Vallone says. “She has the gift of a natural artistic talent and a lot of patience for this kind of work. I am happy to say that she will be relocating here to work with me in the near future.”

After a year of apprenticeship, Vallone bought a long established antique restoration business in Buffalo, NY: Fine Antique Restorations Inc. The business was very successful, specializing in the restoration and preservation of 18th and 19th century furniture, paintings and objects of art for dealers, museums and collectors in the upstate New York and New England areas. Vallone’s company was also called on to perform a very large restoration job for the Genesee Country Village and Museum due to a fire in one of the period antique homes. The upstate New York winters drove him back to Sarasota in 2001, returning to Buffalo in the summer to work for longtime clients, many of whom also own homes in Florida.

There is a big difference between antique preservation and refinishing, offers Vallone. “All the value and investment in a fine piece of furniture of the period is in the surface or patina. Most refinishers are not knowledgeable enough in the finishes that were used on early furniture of the period and therefore don’t know how to properly restore or preserve them. Consequently, the piece is stripped of its original surface and refinished with a modern type of finish, losing hundreds of years of patina in a matter of minutes.”

Recently Vallone was contacted by a client who also is a parishioner and volunteer at Church of The Redeemer in downtown Sarasota to perform a gold leaf restoration on the redos in the main chapel. The redos are a heavily carved backdrop in the chapel that was donated by a parishioner back in the 1950s. Over time the inside carvings and the outside pieces of the redos were refinished with a gold paint that had faded through the years. Many hours of preparation were necessary to make the heavily grained carved oak wood surface smooth enough to lay the 23k gold leaf without tearing the leaf or seeing the grain of the wood through it. All the carved wood that wasn’t gold leafed was also restored to its original luster. The restoration was a painstaking monthlong project that required working around the Church’s schedule. Vallone brought in Stephanie Longo

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Another misconception that Vallone has encountered among many people, including dealers, is the use of oil on an antique piece of furniture as regular maintenance. “Almost all of the early finishes used on original period furniture are either shellac, varnish or a combination of both,” he explains. “Varnish is an oil-based finish. Applying oil to an antique piece of furniture that has its original surface will cause the finish to break down over time. Sure, there were pieces that were finished in an oil finish such as tung oil or boiled linseed oil, but they were mainly utilitarian pieces. These types of oil finishes can be maintained by applying the same type of oil to them as a preservation, but as a restoration artist you need to distinguish which pieces have what finish on them in order to properly preserve or restore them.” Vallone travels extensively for onsite repairs and preservation jobs for private collectors who don’t want their prized pieces moved. Otherwise the work is performed in his local shop all with painstaking care.

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REAL | perspectives DETERMINING CAUSE…WHO IS TO BLAME? By William Henry, PhD

OVERVIEW As design forensic experts we are often tasked with investigating sites where injuries and/or fatalities arise from unsafe building conditions. Often times, no photographic or other visual record exists of the actual incident. In these cases, the expert must rely on third party accounts from eyewitnesses who provide testimony as to their recollection of what occurred. DOCUMENTATION OF ONSITE CONDITION There are some instances where actual videos record the incident from security cameras, or a passerby may have photographs immediately following the incident derived from sources such as cell phone pictures. In today’s highly technological world, some experts can utilize three-dimensional modeling techniques to recreate an accident scene. Further, with supporting evidence, the expert can take the next technological jump to reenactment via animation. FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO SAFETY As design experts, we have been asked by attorneys to identify the cause of the accident from a design or construction perspective. We have qualified our opinions to state that as threedimensional experts, we understand the built

environment and how it may affect building users’ perceptions e.g. depth perception, color contrast, light and shadow contrast, as well as the impacts of natural versus artificial lighting. All of these components of the built environment can impact human behavior and elicit physical responses. However, we are not, what is termed today, “human factors experts.” This means we are not experts in the psychology or physiology of human perception and response to exterior conditions. As design professionals we should seek to clarify the differences in expertise above. Therefore the factors contributing to safety derive both from the built environment and all of its attributes as well as human physiology capability that can determine the response. CODE DEFICIENCIES ARE MOST COMPELLING IN ASSESSING LIABILITY. While the above factors are certainly germane to assessing accountability for injuries to building users, as a matter of law, building code violations are of utmost importance. These code violations can stem from a number of governing statutes and regulations. They span the jurisdictions from Federal, State, County, as well as Municipal codes. The Federal codes seem to be most concerned with discrimination as found in the Americans

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William “Bill” Henry RGA-Design LLC DreamScapes LLC (813) 226.2220 ext. 204 whenry@rga-design.com with Disabilities Act (ADA), as well as the Fair Housing Act, its counterpart as applied to residential construction. State regulations are usually applied in building codes. In the state of Florida, the governing code is known as The Florida Building Code. Counties tend to legislate and enact regulations pertaining to zoning law, which allows or prohibits land uses. And finally, Municipal codes focus more on covenants and restrictions that are unique to the locality. If the site of the incident is found to be non compliant with any of the above, a compelling case can be made that the property owner, its design professionals and contractors, property managers, and safety personnel could be found to be liable. Damages can be assessed to one and or all in some pro rata proportionality as determined by arbitration or judge and jury. Therefore, it is very important that existing facilities are assessed periodically to ascertain code compliance as detailed above. Unsafe conditions can lead to liabilities to all parties mentioned above. In short, an accident victim can now bring claims against not only the property owner who they are in direct privities with, but also all third party contributors to the built environment named above during a time frame under the statute of limitations.

Lunardi Architecture is a modern architecture studio located in Sarasota Florida committed to creating works of architecture that express the hig hest aesthetics with a strong response to program,context and environment. The firm pays particular attention to the quality of materials and detailing. Throug h careful mani pulation of space and lig ht,we strive to design spaces and experiences that are individual yet responsible,visionary yet practical.

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