REAL
M A G A Z I N E
Steve Marino Taking the Lead
International Artistic Stone
We take pride in our hand carved natural stone masterpieces
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Stone Marble Granite Solid Columns Architectural Elevation Pieces Fireplace Hearths and Mantles Fountains Sculptures Carvings Ornaments Stair Treads Balusters Flooring Wall Coverings Counter Tops
International Artistic Stone, Inc 2 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com 4420 Chenet Lane - Sarasota, FL 34238 - tel. (941) 923-7080 - fax. (941) 923-9939 - www. iasfl.com
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Fall Fashion It may not feel like fall yet with the continuing waves of Florida tropical heat, but fall is in the air. Just look at the roadways and the influx of season is well underway. The weather will soon follow. For starters Neiman Marcus’ fashion director Ken Downing shares Fall Fashion trends with us. Greens, leather, luxury loafers, clutches and prints are some of the fashion statements this fall. We’ll explore some very fashionable accessories to complete the look, and style you for fall. Motoring on we explore Porsche’s fashionable Cayenne. Since 2003 when the Cayenne was introduced in the U.S., it quickly became the highest volume Porsche sold in this country. Now with the introduction of the 2013 Cayenne Diesel and GTS there are six models to choose from. Come find the perfect vehicle for those upcoming family holiday jaunts. Continuing we take a look at how furniture follows fashion. Yes, the fashion industry does directly influence the furniture industry. Some trends stick, others are short lived. The furniture industry does pay close attention to fashion trends. We’ll visit past trends and see what is fresh and new today.
Photograph by RestaurantsInSarasota.com
Enjoy! Ed Bertha - REALTOR® Photograph by Jenny Acheson
Photos: 2012 Suncoast Superboat Grand Prix Festival’s Hyatt Regency “Pre-Race” Party & Fashion Show Benefiting Suncoast Charities for Children Wardrobe Courtesy of Jflo Boutique & Salon
6 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com
Private Jet Travel Update
contents | Fall 2012
26 | Steve Marino 18, 36 | REAL luxury
34 | REAL beauty
Neiman Marcus: Fall Fashion By Ed Bertha | Why A Porsche Cayenne By Fred Krasne
Answers From Behind The Chair – Part 2 By Sheila Venancia
20, 21 | REAL news
40 | REAL style
Perrone Construction Residence Wins Third Award | Ann Sacks Collection Comes To Tile Market of Sarasota | CMSA Architecture Relocates To Downtown Sarasota | Nutter Custom Construction To Build In Lake Club | Penny Hill Group Joins EverBank | Historical Society of Sarasota Grand Re-Opening
24 | REAL kerried away Fashion Follows Furniture By Kerrie Lehnert
8 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com
Fall’s Most Wearable Fashions By Rebecca Smith
48 | REAL cares Bambi Famous Kane, The American Cancer Society By Lalaena Gonzalez Figueroa
42, 46, 50 | REAL perspectives Selling a Home? Choose Your Marketing Partner Carefully By Patricia Tan | How Do You Know What Real Estate Is Really Worth? By William Henry, PhD | What’s Hot? By Sara Hand
The Macalla The preferred builder at Country Club East at Lakewood Ranch, The Concession, The Forest, Founders Club, The Lake Club, Legends Bay, Rive Isle, Rosedale Links and Stonelake Ranch.
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10 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com
CONTACT ThE PENNy hILL GROUP TOdAy
Scott Kolbe
Penny Hill
Melissa Rickey
NMLS ID: 450543
NMLS ID: 365464
NMLS ID: 450635
941.545.1275 pennyhillgroup@everbank.com
get REAL
www.the-real-magazine.com Executive Publisher Ed Bertha (941) 921.2117 edbertha@the-real-magazine.com Cover & Masthead Photography Giovanni Lunardi Photography Jenny Acheson Giovanni Lunardi RestaurantsInSarasota.com Chad Spencer Executive Producer Video ViaVio; Leslie Brown Creative Director Christian Lunardi
Design & Layout Elisabeth Kellam Kerr Contributing Writers Ed Bertha Tracy Eisnaugle Lalaena Gonzalez-Figueroa Kacey C. Krznaric Kerrie Lehnert Subscriptions & Circulation Innovative Agent Services Printing Manatee Printers, Inc. Production Enterprise Connections
REAL Magazine is produced monthly by Enterprise Connections, Inc. Principal office: 6743 Ashley Court, Sarasota, FL 34241. COPYRIGHT Š 2012 REAL 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 Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions expressed or facts supplied by its authors. All listing information published in REAL Magazine is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Contact agent or builder directly to verify listing information which is subject to change. WEBSITE: www.the-real-magazine.com offers 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 941.921.5027, write 2945 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34239 or visit www.the-real-magazine.com, $24.95/year. ADVERTISING: Please call 941.921.2117, write 6743 Ashley Court, Sarasota, FL 34241 or visit www.the-real-magazine.com. POSTMASTER: Please send notices on Form 3579 to 2945 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34239. Standard mail paid in Sarasota, Florida
12 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com
REAL | featured Kerrie Lehnert, a hard finish designer, is the driving force behind Kitchens by Kerrie. Designing kitchens, baths, closets and more for over thirteen years, Kerrie works seamlessly with homeowners, architects, builders and interior designers creating the ultimate space, always with an eye on resale value. Kitchens by Kerrie maintains a showroom at Bacon’s Furniture and Design, 7557 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231. For more information she may be reached at (941) 228.1173 or KitchensByKerrie@yahoo.com.
Patricia Tan was born in England, and her career in international sales and marketing led her to live and work in many countries around the world before moving to Sarasota in 1997. Patricia is a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS), Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI), and Transnational Referral Certified (TRC). She is involved in global activities of the Sarasota, Florida and National Association of Realtors, and currently serves as NAR President’s Liaison to U.K. Her real estate business operates from Coldwell Banker on St Armands Key, where her focus is to bring international buyers to the local market. She regularly makes marketing trips to Canada, Asia and Europe, to promote Florida’s Gulf Coast and the Sarasota area in particular. Patricia may be reached at (941) 504.9232 or Pat@PatriciaTan.com.
Managing Partner for S P Hand and Associates, Sara Hand specializes in developing creative strategies for business growth with a strong focus on implementation. She is President of the Sarasota Chapter Gulf Coast Venture Forum, cofounder of BarCamp Sarasota, on the Board of Directors for the Sun Coast Technology Forum and is involved regionally in collaborative efforts for Entrepreneurial Support organizations across SWFL. Sara may be reached at (941) 228.4033 or sara@ sphandandassociates.com. Fred Krasne has sold luxury cars at dealerships in Washington, DC, Tampa and Sarasota, FL for over 20 years. He also has significant financial background and experience in the leasing industry, dating back to his time as VP of Marketing for a lease finance company. Fred believes that his experience in working with busy, successful people has driven him to focus on providing the kind of service that satisfies their demanding life styles. His skill is in relating to the needs and wants of the client, and making sure that their vision of their perfect car can be easily realized, in a way that makes sense financially. For concierge level service contact Fred Krasne at (941) 9231700 or fkrasne@sunsetautogroup.com. Suncoast Motorsports is located at 5005 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231.
14 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com
Reliable Group, LLC Architects AA# 0003523 is a wellknown architectural and construction management firm based in Tampa, Florida. RGA is headed by Dr. William Henry, both an architect and certified expert witness who issues opinions and testimony concerning design and construction related matters. Having designed over 250 landmark buildings in the state of Florida, he has represented and testified for both plaintiffs and defendants in cases involving code violations such as associated with design and construction defects as well as American Disabilities Act – ‘ADA’ violations. William Henry, PhD (Bill) may be reached at (813) 226.2220 or bhenry@rga-design.com.
Rebecca Z. Smith, a fashion stylist/image consultant, is the founder of We’ve Got Style by Rebecca and an Etcetera clothing agency. She offers styling and personal shopping services, image makeovers, wardrobe planning, closet consultations, key note speaking and fashion show productions. Her Etcetera line is available exclusively via appointment-only trunk shows four times a year. We’ve Got Style by Rebecca is located in Sarasota, FL. For more information contact Rebecca at (941) 2236643, rebeccaz@wevegotstyle. com or www.wevegotstyle.com
Sheila Venancia has over a decade of distinguished international experience. Originally from Brazil, she trained with leading international hair professionals in London, Spain, Brazil and the USA. In Brazil, Sheila rose among the top-ranking hair and makeup artists, catapulting her into the celebrity arena. Sheila’s work has been featured on Brazilian television shows, newspapers and magazines. Her specialties are nontoxic Japanese hair straightening, laser hair extensions, and high-end modern styling. Sheila may be reached at (941) 822.2152
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DEBORAH BEACHAM, P.A. REALTOR , CRS, GRI, TRC 941.376.2688 www.LuxuryPropertyInSarasota.com R
NIELUBOWICZ & ASSOCIATES, INC. • 941-924-5077 • FAX 941-923-3204 JOB #: SJET-2402 SIZE: 1/2 Page - 7.5” x 4.875” No Bleed CREATED: 8/16/12 PUBLICATION: Real Magazine SPECS: 4 Color REv. DATE: RUN DATE: Sept. 2012 Issue COST: $_.00 CRA: 8/28/12 Rep.: Ed Bertha, Executive Publisher, 921-2117/Fax 827-9400; edbertha@the-real-magazine.com IMPORTANT: Please review carefully. By signing andpays dating You live life to the fullest, you believe that hard work off, this authorization, the client is approving 2 ad content and run date(s) as shown above. and you appreciate integrity, tenacity and dedication. Contact: Approved By: ________________________________________________ DATE: _____________ As a leader in the luxury real estate market, I will take care of TOP 2 TOP 1% every detail of your real estate transaction so you can FIVE YEAR WINNER relax and enjoy the lifestyle you’ve earned. 2011 FIVE STAR AWARD 2011
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16 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com
FOR MODERN TIMES, A CLASSIC BANK. TM
Sabadell Bank & Trust
SM
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Wealth Management Division of Sabadell United Bank N.A.
RICHARD J. GERRITY 783 South Orange Avenue | Suite 100 | Sarasota | (941) 364-5082
PRIVATE BANKING | CORPORATE BANKING | INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT | FIDUCIARY SERVICES Sabadell Bank & TrustSM is a tradename of Sabadell United Bank®, N.A. and a service mark of Banco de Sabadell, S.A. Sabadell United Bank, N.A. is a member of the FDIC. Deposits in Sabadell Bank & Trust and other divisions of Sabadell United Bank, N.A. are included within Sabadell United Bank, N.A.’s FDIC insurance coverage. Advisory services include advice on non-deposit insurance investment products which are not FDIC INSURED - MAY LOSE VALUE – NOT BANK GUARANTEED. Not all products and services available in all offices. © 2012 Sabadell United Bank, N.A., a subsidiary of Banco de Sabadell, S.A. All rights reserved.
REAL | luxury
Neiman Marcus - Fall Fashion By Ed Bertha
Neiman Marcus fashion director Ken Downing shares FALL 2012 trends: MIXED GREENS: Solo or in combination, greens spruce up any wardrobe. BORROWED FROM THE BOYS: Menswear influences tailor-made for her. THE JACKET: Goes over everything—keep it top of mind. THE LEATHER LEG: Second-skin tight or cut like a trouser, leather has legs. THE SMOKING SLIPPER: The luxury loafer is flat-out chic. NAVY: THE NEW NEUTRAL: Pair it up with black or brights. DIGITAL PRINTS: Patterns made modern. THE HIGH-IMPACT HANDBAG: Size and details matter. BROOCHES: One adds newness, a cluster adds drama. THE FALL FACE: Get juiced with the cherry lip. Let’s look at some accessories to complete your look.
Balenciaga $1,085
Alexander McQueen $1,395 Alexis Bittar Deco Bijou $625 Bottega Veneta $2,500
Balenciaga Sneaker $645 Alexis Bittar $445 Bottega Veneta $2,450
Neiman Marcus, International Plaza, 2223 North Westshore Blvd, 18 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com
Armenta $6,190
Chanel Bombay Baluchon Clutch $3,300
Annabelle Woven Raccoon Vest $1,050
Fendi 2 Jours $3,690
Lanvin Degrede Crystal Minaudiere $2,490
Charlotte Olympia $1,475
Manolo Blahnik Leopard Haircalf $745 Marzi Fedora with Peacock Feather $495
MCL Branch Pin $850
Miriam Salat $595
Tampa, FL 33607, (813) 877.5700, www.neimanmarcus.com
Prada $5,500
REAL | news Perrone Construction Residence Wins Third Award Perrone Construction won a third major award for a Bird Key home it built, this time winning the coveted Aurora award for design at the South East Builders Conference in Orlando. The impressive residence was designed by Oz Planning and Design and is a true to architectural style Italian villa. The residence won the Aurora award for best custom home over three million dollars for design.
INTEGRITY
At 8,200 square feet it abounds in stunning architectural detail. It is 75% clad in hand carved Syrian Ebla Limestone, The interior is accented in Texas Limestone and the walls finished with true Venetian plaster. Approximately 50-60 skilled craftsmen worked on the home 6 days a week to deliver the home in an impressive 15 months. For more information visit www.perroneconstruction.com or call (941) 924.6900.
Ann Sacks Collection Comes To Tile Market of Sarasota
Harbor Acres ∙ 1384 Harbor Drive
ACTION
Brigid Hewes Saah was looking to expand her showroom with tile that not only was beautiful and of the highest quality, but was also Made in America. Ann Sacks was interested in having their Collection represented by a high end Showroom that works with leading Interior Designers, Architects as well as style savvy homeowners. The result: Ann Sacks took on Tile Market of Sarasota as the first independent dealer in the Southern U.S. selected to represent the Ann Sacks Collection since Kohler purchased the company in 1989. Hewes Saah shares “Our 12 year reputation is built on providing unique, beautiful and timeless tile to the Sarasota area. I believe that the most beautiful handmade tile comes from American artisans and it is always rewarding to bring these unique products into Sarasota homes. While we have always worked closely with the American art tile industry, there are some gaps in the products we can offer. With the Ann Sacks Collection, we are able to close these.” For more information visit www. tilemarketsarasota.com or call (941) 365.2356.
CMSA Architecture Relocates To Downtown Sarasota CMSA has moved its office to 300 South Orange Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236. The existing vacant building was re-purposed into an open concept, energy-efficient, stateof-the-art studio.
MLS M5826878 ∙ $4.9 Million
CMSA is seeking LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification by incorporating sustainable design features into the building. Tall, insulated storefront windows on the two street sides of the building will provide natural daylight and views to the outside for all of the occupants. CMSA used mostly reclaimed materials for office furniture, counter tops and interior finishes. All products were evaluated for their volatile organic compounds and carefully selected to ensure increased indoor air quality. For more information visit www.cmsa1.com or call (941) 364.4600.
RESULTS! 20 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com 20 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com
Nutter Custom Construction To Build In Lake Club Nutter Custom Construction announced its debut into Lakewood Ranch’s, The Lake Club. Their showcase home “The Windward” is planned to lead their entry into The Lake Club. TJ Nutter, President, says “We are thrilled to be included as a builder in such a great community. We are excited to show people what we have to offer. “ NCC is a strong team with over three decades of combined high end residential construction experience. “Never ending attention to detail and timely construction while providing personalized service is what matters most to us and our clients.” For more information visit www.nuttercustomconstruction.com or call (941) 924.1868.
West of Trail ∙ 1850 Boyce Street
SOLD!
Penny Hill Group Joins EverBank The Penny Hill Group has joined EverBank’s retail lending division. Comprised of Penny Hill, senior loan officer, Scott Kolbe, branch sales manager, and Melissa Rickey, Penny Hill Group will service the Gulf Coast of Florida. They will offer a variety of residential mortgage solutions to clients and build awareness of EverBank products and programs in the local community. Hill has 23 years of experience working in the mortgage industry, previously worked as a senior private mortgage banker with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage and also spent 10 years with Chase Home Mortgage. She graduated from American University in Washington, DC, and received a Doctorate of Naturopathy from John Bastyr College in Seattle, WA. Hill is on the Board of Directors at Roskamp Institute, a member of the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, the Sarasota Association of Realtors (SAR), and Ringling Museum. For more information Hill may be reached at penny.hill@everbank.com or call (941) 356.4050.
MLS A3959911 ∙ $1.549 Million
ISN'T IT TIME...
Historical Society of Sarasota Grand Re-Opening The Historical Society of Sarasota announced the Grand Re-Opening of their Gift Shop. The gift shop is literally filled to the rafters in the detached kitchen of the historic Bidwell-Wood House (1882). You can find the Historical Society at 1260 12th Street (between N. Trail and Cocoanut Ave.) in Pioneer Park. Normal business hours for the Gift Shop will be 10:00 – 2:00 Mondays – Fridays and one Saturday per month, beginning on Nov. 17th, during the 2nd Designer Tag Sale held next door in the Crocker Memorial Church (1901). Each 2nd Tuesday of every month through April, the Shop will also be open from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. preceding the monthly “Conversations in the Crocker” meetings which are also open to the public. For more information visit www.hsosc.com or call (941) 364-9076. 21 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com
Kelly Gettel & Co. PLLC Licensed Real Estate Broker 2170 Main Street, Suite 203 Sarasota, FL 34237 (941) 388.8232 KELLY@kellygettelandco.com WWW.KELLYGETTELANDCO.COM
PARTY WITH A PASSION PASSION!! FRIDAY, NOV. 30TH, 2012
8PM-12AM
NOVA 535 UNIQUE EVENT SPACE 535 DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. ST. N. ST. PETERSBURG, FL 33701
benefiting
Please join us for a chic yet comfortable evening while enjoying a dynamic presentation of music, cocktails, exquisite cuisine, dancing & captivating entertainment. Celebrity hosted live & silent auction items will be available like fine dining experiences, one of a kind sports memorabilia, fine art, weekend getaways, pampering spa packages and so much more.
Winter Wonderland Party kicks off at 8pm on Friday, November 30, 2012 at NOVA 535 Unique Event Space in St. Petersburg, FL. Guests are encouraged to wear masquerade masks and come dressed to impress. Ticket prices range from $50 to $345. Tickets can be purchased online at www.GulfCoastGiving.org/party Combined, Habitat for Humanity of Sarasota & Pinellas have provided safe housing for over 1,000 children, and evidence shows the positive effect of a stable and safe house on education and health for children. Event Sponsorships are available. For more information please contact Jessica Shafer @ 727-517-3839 Ext 1205 or Jessica@ GulfCoastGiving.org www.GulfCoastGiving.org
TICKETS ONLINE @ www.GulfCoastGiving.org/party
22 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com
benefiting
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2010 Frank G. Berlin, Sr. ~ Small Business of the Year Winner ~ Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce
REAL | kerried away
Furniture Follows Fashion
By Kerrie Lehnert
I recently enjoyed a conversation with Jeff Bacon, who manages Bacon’s Furniture and design of Sarasota. He said something that really provoked great interest and curiosity: “Furniture follows fashion”. Interesting indeed: all design students are taught “Form follows function”, and perhaps I didn’t give much thought to the significant impact the fashion industry has on the furniture industry. But it seemed logical. I am sure events such as Manhattan’s Fashion Week are those to which fashionistas pay great attention so they can be the first to sport the new, trendy and sometimes avantgarde whims in apparel. Some trends stick; others are short lived and may not even leave the runway. The furniture industry pays close attention. This is obvious with the revival of the animalprint craze: the kitschy patterns were possibly revitalized by the Paris Hiltons and Carrie Bradshaws of the world some years ago. The prints are still in vogue today and the patterns are found in mainstream furniture stores on arm chairs, area rugs, table top veneers and more. Animal skins were perhaps one of the first statements in clothing. As early as 5 million years ago, man wore animal pelts not only to protect him from natural elements but to enrich spiritual rituals and lure animals while hunting. Even then, animal skins were observed as having some greater power than other clothing materials in a time when their primary purpose was protection. Wearing the hides of animals, particularly patterned pelts, continued throughout history and transitioned during royalty as decoration for rugs and chair upholstery. As time moved on, the pelts continued to be a sign of some greater success, be it hunting, royalty or wealth. It was really in the 1940’s and 50’s that animal prints transitioned into the commercial sector of the fashion industry, which is commonly credited to Christian Dior. Dior, most known to have adopted the Jaguar print into his fashion line, transitioned it as a pattern in everything from exquisite handbags, gloves and scarves to other clothing items. He set the world up to recognize this pattern as a symbol of luxury and status. Meanwhile real furs were still coveted for jackets and coats and there was not a clear distinction between the harmless prints and the actual pelts.
24 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com
The 1960’s certainly revolutionized the fashion industry. This was the time shortly after the women’s movement that masses of women really began to protest the use of animal furs in fashion. Protests included anti-fur signs and buttons, and publicly damaging fur jackets. In the San Francisco Bay Area, a breeding of leopards and ocelots with domestic cats created exotic pets with wild cat markings. Faux prints have existed throughout time but they became very common in the 1970s. Prior to that time, animal prints were more of a status symbol than a fashion statement. Now in current day, the prints, while still fashionable, are very mainstream and commonly found. Taking the initial introduction of animal prints from fashion designers decades ago, animal prints have clearly established themselves in the furniture industry. We have seen animal prints go in and out of fashion, but with a strong resurgence in the furniture sector, perhaps animal prints have become a staple pattern such as a plaid, broçade or damask. Animal prints have now become an accepted pattern and not just as a fashion statement in the fashion and furniture world.
Steve Marino Taking the Lead By Lalaena Gonzalez-Figueroa Photography by Giovanni Lunardi
26 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com
They’re not a typical air conditioning repair outfit, and Home-Tech wouldn’t have it any other way. CEO and Chairman Steve Marino and his daughter Sonya Sawyer, the firm’s Chief Financial Officer, have established the company as a client-centric organization designed to make life a little cooler in southwest Florida. “Home-Tech is a hybrid,” says Steve, who founded the company in 1981. Trained in air conditioning and appliance repair, he recognized the value in combining services into a central business model. His philosophy was simple: to offer residential consumers the convenience of comprehensive and reliable care for their major home appliances and air conditioning systems.
Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit and a keen sense of business, Steve grew the business rapidly, expanding from a startup launched in a spare bedroom, into two major sales locations serving Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee and Collier Counties. As his clientele grew, he recognized the opportunity to meet their ongoing needs. Home-Tech sales only the finest major appliance and air conditioning systems, he says, and maintains “the largest service fleet in southwest Florida.” In addition to sales and service calls, Home-Tech has created
an innovative annual service agreement, which covers the cost of parts, labor and service calls for a/c units and 12 major appliances. “It’s incredibly convenient and affordable,” remarks Sonya, who adds that the program is unique from traditional extended warranties in that it is less restrictive and tailored to the needs of each home owners lifestyle. “We provide emergency services seven days a week, responding quickly and efficiently.” Home-Tech’s showrooms are state-of-the art facilities that feature fully functional
28 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com
appliances, inviting prospective buyers to explore beyond their cosmetic allure. “It’s not common to be able to run a dishwasher before you buy it,” says Steve. “But our clients appreciate the opportunity to see how everything works, to hear them running and to make firsthand comparisons. This streamlines the decisionmaking process and ensures that there are no surprises once they get home.” In 1996 Home-Tech became an employee-owned company, a model that has, says Sonya, contributed further to its success.
Home-Tech’s show rooms: “Our clients appreciate the opportunity to see how everything works, to hear them running and to make firsthand comparisons.”
Steve and Sonya continue to raise the bar on quality and service 30 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com
Steve loves to fly his sleek Lancair Columbia 350 “Because our employees are also our owners, they are personally invested in the longevity of the organization,” she explains. “Our clients love of our incredibly low turnover rates, as well. They can work with the same service technicians for a decade, and feel comfortable trusting the professionals they are allowing into their homes.” Their service is, by all accounts, exceptional. HomeTech employees participate in comprehensive training programs that include technical elements as well as explicit guidelines on customer relations. “We establish expectations on presentation and appearance, effective communication skills, and how to treat homes and work spaces,” Sonya offers. “We respect the opportunity to service our customers in their homes,
and want to ensure consistently positive experiences.” Their efforts have paid off handsomely. Steve reports that Home-Tech has increased volume every year since 1981, reaching their first major milestone million dollar sales year in 1988 and tripling in size since they became employee owned. Since then the company has thrived, even during the grueling economic downturn that led to the demise of many of their industry counterparts. Through savvy business practice and creative advertising, Steve has ensured that Home-Tech has thrived against the odds. “We refocused our marketing as we identified the market shift,” he says. “Home-Tech invested in cause marketing, which allowed us maintain visibility while adhering to our philosophy of community involvement.”
Sonya is an award winning ballroom dancer in her own right
Local charitable organizations were hit hard as sponsorship fell during the mid-2000s, and Steve and Sonya have been proud to extend financial assistance. “We employ over a hundred and thirty people who live in the communities we serve,” says Steve. “It made sense to step in and help when we had the resources to do so.” Their efforts have been lauded by many. In 2010 Steve and his Home-Tech employee owners were honored as Gulf Coast Magazine’s Philanthropist of the Year in Lee County. Sonya, a member of the executive board of the American Heart Association who also serves on the Corporate Executive Committee of the Children’s Museum of Naples, looks forward to leading as cochair for the 2013 Heart Ball with her husband Brian. Steve and Sonya remain dedicated to the growth and success of Home-Tech, but each finds balance outside of the business as well. Avid ballroom dancers, both love the elegance of the sport and have enjoyed dancing at local charity events and competitions. Sonya also revels in family time. Married to a detective with the Collier County Sheriff, she is also a mother to two young children. Steve is a licensed pilot who loves to fly with his copilot, his wife Tamara. “I enjoy my hobbies,” he says, “but my true passion is the business. Through Home-Tech I have seen my daughter launch a successful career, and I have had the privilege of working with an amazing group of partners, employees and customers.”
“I enjoy my hobbies but my true passion is the business”
If they don’t fit the mold of a traditional a/c and appliance sales and service center, that’s fine by Steve, Sonya and the employees owners of Home-Tech. They’re redefining business the way they know it, raising the bar on quality service. “Other companies come and go,” observes Sonya. “We’ve created something that has stood the test of time, and we’re looking forward to ongoing success.”
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Home-Tech (800) 800.8356 www.home-tech.com Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte Counties: (Northern Office) 5205 Lena Road Bradenton, FL 34211 Lee/Collier Counties: (Southern Office) 6400 Techster Boulevard Fort Myers, FL 33966
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REAL | beauty
Answers from Behind the Chair (Part 2) By Sheila Venancia
How often do I need to trim my hair? Trim your hair every three months. This helps to keep the ends looking healthy and fresh. Should I layer my long hair? Sometimes, depending on the texture of your hair. Some long hair should not be layered. If appropriate, layering long hair helps to create a less heavy look, but be careful not to cut to many short layers or you could end up with puffy looking hair. The shortest length should never be above your chin. How do I know if I need to deeply condition my type hair? All types of hair need a deep conditioner hair masque at least once a week. I like my curly hair, but how can I style it ? After you get out of the shower, apply a “leave-in” conditioner and anti-frizz cream. Also use a diffuser on your hair dryer. This spreads the heat out so your curls dry evenly and creates soft ringlets. Can I use a flat iron when my hair is wet? Never use the flat iron on wet hair. This can burn your hair and is very dangerous because the water can go inside the machine and cause a fire. Only use on dry hair. Can I use soap to wash my hair? It is not the best choice. Because soap has a high alkaline content it can disturb your hair’s natural pH balance. This can result in very dry hair. Is it good to brush my hair at night before going to bed? Yes, especially if you have long hair. This helps your hair to not have tangles in the morning. Should I make a pony tail in my hair when it is wet? Never, because this stretches the hair shaft and causes it to break and split. I don’t use conditioner in my hair, is it really necessary? Yes, there are many different conditioners that are available for all types of hair, fine, medium and course. Find one for your hair type. A conditioner is very important after shampooing as it stabilizes the pH, moisturizes and helps with brushing your hair. Is it healthy to sleep with wet hair? No, this can create dandruff and other scalp problems. Additionally, the moisture can result in bacteria forming in your pillow.
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“Be gentle with your hair” Until next month, Sheila Venancia International Hair Stylist and Master Colorist (941) 822.2152
REAL | luxury
Why a Porsche Cayenne?
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By Fred Krasne
Since 2003 when the Porsche Cayenne was introduced in the USA, it quickly became the highest volume Porsche sold in this country. Now with the introduction of the 2013 Cayenne Diesel and the 2013 Cayenne GTS the model range now has expanded to six models, offering the discriminating driver a wide range of options that will satisfy the most demanding owner. The Cayenne Diesel will provide a driving range of up to 765 miles, that will allow you to drive from Sarasota to New Orleans on a tank of gas. It has a 240 HP Turbocharged V6 diesel engine that will move this vehicle 0-60 in 7.2 seconds. Its 26.4 gallon tank will help you average nearly 30 mpg on the highway. Because only 3% of the registered passenger cars in the USA are diesel, and over 60% of registered passenger cars in Europe are diesel due to $10/gallon fuel prices, Porsche sees an incredible opportunity to help our luxury auto market combat rising fuel prices. The Cayenne GTS is the newest performance Cayenne that is slotted between the Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo. The GTS has the performance figures of a sports car, 0-60 in 5.4 seconds, top track speed of 162 mph, and generates 420 HP in an all wheel drive SUV. These performance figures are in the top 10% of all the vehicles sold in the US. When Porsche first introduced the Cayenne a decade ago, few people outside the company understood why Porsche would risk its reputation as one of the world’s most respected sports car makers by building a four-door, all-wheel drive SUV. It seemed like a complete departure from the script. Hadn’t Porsche, in sports cars such as the 911 and the Boxster, perfected the formula for uncompromising driving precision? Hadn’t Porsche for decades used the racetrack as its proving ground?
Then came the first reports from those who had driven the Cayenne. What astonished the skeptics was this: The acceleration, braking, steering, and efficiency of a Porsche sports car had been infused in to a rugged SUV. It seemed impossible that such performance could be achieved by a vehicle of the Cayenne’s proportions. Yet there it was--Porsche standards of excellence, delivered not just on paper, but on pavement. And truth be told, on gravel, sand, and snow as well. Cayennes are raced at the Transsyberia Rally. What’s that, you ask? It’s a 4,300 mile trail-of-tears endurance race from Moscow to Mongolia, with a whole passel of car-killing country in between. It’s also the answer to a prayer from Stuttgart. Ever since its 2003 debut, the Cayenne has been lambasted by critics who see it as an unworthy Porsche that exists only to bolster the company’s bottom line. One can only imagine the angst this has caused, especially since Porsche insists that all its vehicles are designed to be raced. So several years ago, the company went on a hunt to find a race in which the husky hauler might prove itself. Enter the Transsyberia Rally. The Cayenne was victorious several times since entering the races in 2006 to the present. The overriding issue is keeping the vehicle in one piece after crossing rivers, mud bogs, rocks, sand, ice and snow. This once again proves that all Porsches are made to be driven. I ask again why a Cayenne? It is the only true sports SUV now available in 6 different models, starting at just under $50K, that will fulfill both practical and enjoyable activities for the discriminating and demanding owner.
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REAL | style
Fall’s Most Wearable Fashion Trends Welcome to REAL Style, a fashion focused section of REAL Magazine where we explore the world of style and fashion. REAL style is on top of the trends this issue. Our style & fashion cred is in full gear. We are checking out what’s what and what’s new. Neiman Marcus is putting it all together in this issue, showing us the hottest trends for fall. There are several trends this fall that will really stand out from the crowd and happen to be super wearable to boot!
By Rebecca Smith
Fall colors will be on the glam. Look for nude-hued to racy bright with icons of chic thrown in for good measure. Standout colors will be chamois, woodsy brown, red and pale gray. Other fall colors include blush, venetian red - think Ferrari, cocoa - dark chocolate, jade-exotic jewel, charcoal, ash, goldenrod-yellow fever, blueberry-muted blue, clementine-juicy orange, turquoise and black. Skirts, dresses, and sweats in crimson is the black this fall. While the boldest among you will want to rock the rouge head to toe, dresses can get in on the trend by mixing in one garment with more natural pieces for a pretty pop of color. Grey has, over the past few years, become a perennial staple in our fall wardrobes and this year the trendiest shade is pale slate gray. The austerity of the cool natural is off set by the way designers have used it: draped soft figure-flattering jersey silhouettes. Look for black & white prints. From elaborate floral arrangements to quirky curlicues, this fall expect to see plenty of prints in stark black and white. Also the little white dress (LWD) isn’t just for the summer season anymore. Designers showed fullon white looks at New York Fashion Week and nearly every snow-white sheath or cap-sleeve mini was cinched at the waist with a skinny black belt. Another fall trend is cute, contrasting collars. Grab a dickey – they’re having a moment this year! Runways were chock-full of dresses and tops embellished with cute little contracting collars. Choose a shape that flatters your face: rounded edges for angular faces and pointy tips for softer feature. For my readers who love to get all dressed up - Gowns with high, draped necklines are a trend this fall. Finally formal gowns you don’t have to buy special strappy – strapless bras to wear! This fall ‘s more forgiving evening-wear silhouettes are romantically draped – skimming and made from soft flowing silks and satins. The fall trend list is hotter than ever. Femininity rocks, prints are fifty shades of psychedelic and leather is chic. Get excited about fall’s most wearable fashions. REAL style challenges you to look pulled together this fall. Making REAL style a part of your everyday life will give you the confidence to go out there looking your best. Pick up your favorite fashion magazine and get REAL with fall’s most wearable fashion trends.
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WORKSHOP FOR ASPIRING NOVELISTS CNN’s “The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer” Senior Copy Editor & Novelist John DeDakis provides key instructions on how to get published Saturday, November 10, 2012 at 8:30 AM The Ritz-carlton sarasota A personalized autographed copy of “Fast Track” goes to the first 20 people who RSVP
Ever want to author a novel but couldn’t get started or got sidetracked? CNN’s Senior Copy Editor of ‘The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer” will lead a five session intense daylong manuscript writing and copy editing workshop with everything you need to know to get published. Will you be selected for one-on-one mentoring to see your novel on bookshelves? $130.00 per person Price includes lunch, breaks & networking at The Ritz-Carlton Sarasota A personalized autographed copy of “Fast Track” goes to the first 20 people who RSVP
For additional information or to purchase tickets online visit: http://bit.ly/Wcepah or http://tripathmedia-workshop-efbevent.eventbrite.com
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REAL | perspectives
Selling a Home? Choose Your Marketing Partner Carefully By Patricia Tan A marketing partner? Why not a REALTOR® In my experience, a home is more likely to sell quickly, and for a higher price when there is a spirit of partnership between the seller and their Realtor®. Each has their own role to play. The seller must provide access to their home and present it in the best possible way, based upon advice given by their real estate professional. While a REALTOR® has a very long list of duties associated with listing and selling a home, probably the most important activities are related to marketing. What do we mean when we talk about marketing a home? The American Marketing Association defines marketing as: The activity, set of institutions, and processes for creating, communicating, delivering, and exchanging offerings. Let’s consider how a REALTOR® might respond to key words in that definition, and some of the questions you may want to ask before listing your home. Creating and Communicating The internet causes us to live in a “visual” world. How a property looks online is key to success. Professional photography and virtual tour are must-haves. Once a consumer is attracted by images, they look to words for more information. Properties should be described to appeal to a broad spectrum of buyers, whatever their cognitive or thinking style. Some buyers will be drawn to how a home “feels”, while more analytical personalities will want facts and figures. A good REALTOR® will bring together the visual aspects of the property with appropriate written words in key marketing materials such as internet profile, property brochures (printed and electronic) which may vary depending upon the target audience, and various versions of ad copy depending upon the media chosen. Delivering and Exchanging
based services and paid online advertisements. These may be aimed at specific kinds of buying audiences such as equestrian, boating/fishing, golf, seclusion, and the list goes on. Print advertising is key, but should extend beyond the local newspapers into key feeder markets such as the Midwest and North Eastern States, Canada, Western Europe and some of Central and South America. Direct mail can be an effective way to deliver a marketing message. From the humble Just Listed postcard mailed to neighbors, to targeted letters to groups such as high net worth individuals in feeder markets. This is particularly effective for luxury homes. The spoken word is the most effective way to communicate, whether by phone or in a face to face conversation. Innovative REALTORS® will find ways to expose a listing through this medium. At the most simplistic level, a home should be presented by the listing agent at a local REALTOR® meeting and through a broker open house. Ideally the REALTOR® will find a way to personally present a listing to buyers in other states and countries. This can be achieved by organizing real estate seminars or exhibiting at property shows in those locations. In conclusion, here are some questions a savvy seller may wish to ask their marketing partner: •
• •
Having created the marketing messages, it is critical that a REALTOR® communicate these as widely as possible. A property is usually listed in the MLS and other major websites – but so are thousands of others. Steps should be taken to ensure a listing is ranked higher in internet searches. Many larger brokers have strategies to give their listings extensive internet coverage, but the individual REALTOR® can further enhance this by subscribing to a number of fee42 | REAL Magazine | www.the-real-magazine.com
•
•
What is your strategy for exposing my home on the internet – professional photography, how many websites will the listing be syndicated to, and what strategies will you adopt to ensure my listing ranks high in searches, and on websites that cater for specific kinds of lifestyles/ buyers? Where will my home be advertised in print? Newspapers, which magazines and what is their distribution? How will direct mail play a part in the overall marketing plan? What will you do to expose my home to other real estate professionals outside our local area, are these people you know personally that have a track record of producing buyers for our market? Where and how will you personally showcase my home outside the immediate area, in other states or countries?
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REAL | perspectives
How Do You Know What The Real Estate Is Really Worth? By William Henry, PhD
Design and Construction Due Diligence Can Provide a More Accurate Answer. MAI Appraisals Mostly Take the Past and Project It Forward. Practice and logic over the years has established that market value is a product of both demand and availability or scarcity of a good. Without going into a treatise concerning valuations, as an architect I sometimes have become very frustrated about the practice of appraising. This stems from my belief that appraisers may not take into account intrinsic, latent, and opportunity based value in the real estate that they are valuating. Industry standards dictate that MAI appraisals take into account comparable recent sales, replacement costs, and for commercial real estate, something called an “income approach”. As an architect you may think that I would put more stock in the replacement cost method. After all, doesn’t that conger the notion of “sticks and bricks”? Probably due to my business training and background I tend to look harder at the latter, “the income approach”. The income approach takes into account a future stream of net operating income (NOI) and then “capitalizes it” using something termed a “cap rate”. Paradoxically the lower the cap rate the higher the valuation. A high cap rate might be twelve, a low one today might be a five. The reason that I would do this is that most “comps” are not comparable in terms of long term value and latent value. These may only be captured at some future date. In short, hidden opportunity based value may exist in the holdings that may provide some unique safe harbor and/or resale value that most “comparable properties” may not share. Likewise, I don’t really care so much about replacement costs. It may have cost a fortune to produce but if the “dog just doesn’t like the dog food”, what real value does the product have? Unlike many of my fellow architects, I am not a great fan of Taj Mahal building. When I hear that the money was over-spent for a design, ‘’for design sake”, I don’t react well. What these two methods both share, namely comparable sales and replacement costs, is that they fundamentally are focused on the past. In short they take the past and project it forward. Successful Real Estate Investors That I Have Known Conduct InDepth Research and Due Diligence Successful speculators often have a second sense about properties that possess latent value. Several of my clients seem to have a “nose” for this type of hidden value and they are always in the hunt for them. I would love to mention them by name but can’t break that confidence. However, you may think that they possess some rare talent and/or were better trained than the average investor. Perhaps they made their money the old fashioned way, “they inherited it”! They augment the real estate brokers representations with in-depth research and due diligence to mine latent and hidden value.
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Great Investors Don’t Overpay! What I have gleaned from my most successful clients is the following- in addition to doing a great amount of research and due diligence prior to entering into a contract; they are never embarrassed to offer a ridiculously low price for real estate that they know could be worth exponentially more. I will quote one of my most shrewd clients when tendering such a below market offer. After I will state that, “it will only result in a backup contract”, he will retort that “yes, but it will be a really good back up contract”. The aspect that separates them from the reactionary herd—is that they become aware of every aspect of the product’s advantages and disadvantages with respect to the competition prior to acquisitionnot afterwards. So am I saying that you can’t rely on the brokerage community for accurate information? No, I am not saying that. What I am saying is that since brokers are obliged to disclose latent defects if they know about them, some less scrupulous ones want to remain blissfully ignorant of them so they don’t have to disclose them. Experienced and Business Savvy Architects Can Be Useful in Providing Due Diligence and Assessing Lasting Value Here is where experienced and business oriented architects can be useful. We don’t look backwards as much as we look forward! As one politician who lacked if famously demurred, “maybe it’s the ‘vision thing’.” Here is a short check list of issues to discover the deficiencies and/or the latent value: 1) The underlying plan use vs. the apparent current zoning-you may discover that while the property is only zoned for single family residential development the underlying land use that the government planners have agreed to conform the zoning in the future to, provides for a much denser development entitlement. Therefore there could be a huge upside in a future, more intense redevelopment of the property. This is what I mean by “latent value”. 2) Design aspects may be so uniquely applied that they are hard or impossible to reproduce AND may determine lasting value. In short the building design may have an intangible quality difficult to quantify that users respond to and then demand. These tend to grow over time giving rise to the term ‘lasting value’. 3) The surrounding properties are characterized by the same aspects as above and purchasing the lowest priced property in a higher priced neighborhood could yield great returns. 4) Lastly what may appear to be incurable construction defects to unsophisticated investors may actually be easily addressed by determining the root of the actual defects and then properly addressing them by utilizing up-to-date, cost effective technologies. What do all these strategies share?—DETERMINE WHAT THE REAL ESTATE REALLY IS- THEN LOOK FORWARDS NOT BACKWARDS.
Animal Rescue Coalition’s
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Top Dogs and K-9 Heroes! Thursday, November 15, 2012 6:00-8:00PM Join ARC in Honoring Those Dogs That Serve The Community Cocktails, Tapas, DJ Spin, Photos and More!
$55.00 in Advance,
$65.00 at the Door, $25.00 for Dogs. Log onto www.animalrescuecoaltion.org or call 941-957-1955 Ext. 8 To Purchase Tickets.
REAL | cares
American Cancer Society Bambi Famous Kaine: The Courage to Heal By Lalaena Gonzalez-Figueroa | Photography by Chad Spencer Faith is the strength by which a shattered world shall emerge into the light. ~Helen Keller Growing up, Bambi Famous Kaine was a champion for the underdog who was driven by an innate desire to help others. Hers was a large family, held tightly together by the bonds of love and fidelity. She believed in doing the right thing, in making the world a better place. It was, by her account, an idyllic existence. So there was no preparing herself for the unimaginable heartbreak that she would endure when tragedy struck. It would have been easy to succumb to the pain, to curl up into a ball and lose herself in the unfairness of it all. But Bambi was no victim. She emerged more focused than ever, using her story of survival to continue to make a difference in the lives of others. In 2006 Bambi was devastated by the loss of her daughter Katelyn Joy Derstine in an automobile accident. The heartbreaking event left Bambi, her husband and children shattered, unsure of how to navigate the grieving process. Somehow they found a way to pick up the pieces, leaning heavily on the love and support of friends and family along the way. A year after Katelyn’s passing, Bambi was dealt another crushing blow: she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Initially, she recalls, it was almost too much. “I thought I didn’t care if I lived or died,” she says. “But in my heart I knew that wasn’t true. I had to fight, for myself and for my family.” Bambi underwent chemotherapy six weeks after enduring a double mastectomy. During her first treatment, a volunteer with the American Cancer Society reached out to her offering support and information. She learned of the organization’s annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5k Walk, and immediately began to organize a team of participants to join her less than a week after her first treatment. A group of 40 friends and family members rallied together. “They even brought a wheelchair for me, just in case I wasn’t physically able to complete the walk,” Bambi says. It was with those steps that she reaffirmed her life and her new objective: to survive breast cancer. The process of battling any cancer is a painful one, both physically and emotionally. The American Cancer Society is a partner to individuals and their families facing this challenge, offering a wealth of information, resources and assistance. It’s not always easy to accept that help, acknowledges Bambi, who experienced firsthand the disconnect that may occur between a survivor and
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a newly diagnosed individual. “But the American Cancer Society is there when you need them,” she says. “Battling cancer is terrifying and exhausting. For me, there was comfort in knowing that others had been there, had made it. It helped me to believe that I could, too.” Bambi has gone on to become an active board member with the ACS, participating in Pink Heals tour and volunteering with and chairing Making Strides events in Sarasota. She is a fervent advocate of the ACS, asserting, “It’s amazing what they have to offer.” The American Cancer Society has invested over $3.5 billion in cancer research, providing integral funding in the pioneering of effective treatments and medications. The ACS’s Hope Lodge provides free lodging to patients and caregivers around the country during treatment, and maintains a comprehensive database of clinical trials and treatment providers. Volunteers coordinate personalized programs including rides to treatment, hair and makeup assistance, and peer counseling. A state and regional winner of the ACS’s Courage Award, Bambi openly shares her story of survival to inspire and motivate others. Her recent five-year survival anniversary was accompanied by the sober reminder of the need for ongoing cancer research. “Friends who joined me on that first walk have been diagnosed, as have members of my family,” she reveals. “It’s a tough battle, but one that we will continue to fight.” With dignity and with hope, Bambi is leading by example.
American Cancer Society www.cancer.org 2970 University Parkway Sarasota, FL 34243 (941) 745.1214
REAL | perspectives
What’s Hot?
By Sara Hand
What do words like education, network, virtual, job growth, support, incubator, accelerator, angel, pitch, and VC all have in common? They all connect to a term you see thrown around a lot lately. Across headlines – print and digital – the buzz is about “entrepreneurs.” So what’s all the interest in this word that spell check loves? Let’s look at the word and its definition for some insight. Entrepreneur: 1.
An enterprising individual who builds capital through risk and/or initiative. 2. A person who organizes and operates a business or businesses, taking on financial risk to do so. 3. The capacity and willingness to undertake conception, organization, and management of a productive venture with all attendant risks, while seeking profit as a reward. Oh yes, I see now. It is about building businesses that build capital. After the last couple years of economic upheaval and the resulting rampant unemployment, today anyone or anything that could build capital would be welcome. According to businessdictionary.com: In economics, entrepreneurship is regarded as a factor of production together with land, labor, natural resources, and capital. Entrepreneurial spirit is characterized by innovation and risk-taking, and an essential component of a nation’s ability to succeed in an ever changing and more competitive global marketplace. So like the goose who could lay a golden egg, the hunt is on for this entrepreneur. Organizations, governments, and other entrepreneurs race to provide support and opportunities to attract and nurture the individuals that possess this ability. Recently I attended some “entrepreneurial” events around the Republican National convention hosted by The Startup America Partnership and Startup RockOn. Entrepreneurs were encouraged to engage and to let their voices be heard by those who shape the legislation that fosters or hinders growth. Events ranged from panel discussions on the interaction (or lack thereof) between startups and government, to discussions with women founders and after-hours extravaganzas totaling well over 4000 attendees across the events.
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With an international audience present at the convention events, the discussion went beyond just business in the US. Notably, there was a discussion of incentives for investment and expansion, including the benefit of multiple European nation free trade agreements, with the Prime Minister of Macedonia and his delegation. Across the board, whether in the US or not, entrepreneurs are in high demand as wise politicians court this sector. Organizations with a mission of economic development have a strong focus in the area of entrepreneurial growth. From focus groups to special committees, the talk is strong about supporting and facilitating entrepreneurs. The challenge here is that the mindset of the entrepreneur tends to be very different from that of an individual that has pursued a more traditional business track. So moving forward will require those in economic development to be collaborative, to move outside the confines of traditional thought, and for themselves as organizations to become more entrepreneurial in nature. A research study places Florida as the 5th best state in our country to be an entrepreneur and to grow a business. Across the state the number of business incubators and accelerators is rising, whether sponsored publically or privately. There are also a number of efforts underway to better organize the investment community within Florida to support local entrepreneurial growth, such as what the Gulf Coast Venture Forum and Tamiami Angel Fund are doing. At the recent iSummit conference in Orlando, not only did we get to tour the beautiful co-working space of Voxeo and hear how they support a collaborative and synergistic business growth environment, we heard a variety of panel discussions on topics surrounding starting and growing business. These included a pitch event where early stage ventures had 3 minutes to present their company for feedback and potential investment, and I spoke to two more organizations coordinating investors with an interest in early stage funding. This is very encouraging, and needs broad support within the government, both national and local. Why are entrepreneurs that HOT TOPIC? Entrepreneurs build companies that create jobs and generate capital. It bears repeating from my last column: for every early stage investment, 2.5 jobs are created. Today, Florida is a leading location for this important growth area. Do what you can to support entrepreneurs – our future depends on it!
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True to your vision. When quality, cutting edge products, and value meet…the result is spectacular, impressive, and sustainable homes. www.WestwaterConstruction.com Sales 941.962.7515 Main Office 941.366.9936 CG C062281
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