REAL Magazine November 2010

REAL M A G A Z I N E

Robert Smithson An Eye For Digital Creativity

International Artistic Stone

We take pride in our hand carved natural stone masterpieces

“When it comes to custom stone work... if you can imagine it we can make it�

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 4420 Chenet Lane - Sarasota, FL 34238 - tel. (941) 923-7080 - fax. (941) 923-9939 - www. iasfl.com

Number one.

Times two.

Signature Sotheby’s International Realty in Sarasota is merging with Premier Sotheby’s International Realty in Naples.

Now the top two names in luxury real estate on the Gulf Coast are working in unison, backed by the unrivaled resources and worldwide prestige of Sotheby’s International Realty®. What does this mean to you? Just about everything.

SignatureSIR.com 941.364.4000

©MMX Signature Sotheby’s International Realty, licensed real estate broker. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal housing opportunity.

f r o fm th publisher rom t he e publisher

W

hat a year celebrating Lakewood Ranch’s 15th anniversary. November saw the 13th annual Tour of Homes; a resounding success. Next up, holiday celebrations on Main Street then it’s off to sweet 16.

REAL Magazine applauds this award winning master planned community.

Follow REAL Magazine on Your Phone!

Microsoft Tag

Neoreader Tag

Ed Bertha Ed Bertha November 2010 4

|

REAL Magazine

Get the free app for your phone at... www.get.neoreader.com

|

www.the-real-magazine.com

www.gettag.mobi

The world of real estate is at your fingertips.

No REALTOR has you covered better!

R

sarasotahomes4sale.com sarasotafloridarealestate.co.uk luxuryrealty.com luxuryhomes.com sarasotasouthernbelle.com floorplansarasota.com whitakerslane.com realtor.com

Debra Pitell Broker/REALTOR , CRS, GRI, e-PRO R

R

A DYNAMIC REALTOR IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE 941-356-0437 dpestates@aol.com R

1801 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236

FLORIDA R EALTOR F

IRST

Salesperson Sites LA C

E

P

ADDY

R

THE ULTIMATE CHALLENGE

“Highest Benchmark Sale Award” recipient with sales of $13 million and $13.2 million 2005 1st place Agent Website in Florida as named by Florida Association of REALTORS 2006, 2007, 2008 & 2009 FIVE-STAR: Best in Client Satisfaction Real Estate Award Exclusive Sarasota and Longboat Key affiliate for LuxuryRealty.com 27 years of experience selling Sarasota real estate SM

R

PLYMOUTH HARBOR –

THE PLACE TO PURSUE PASSIONS

When retired veterinary surgeon Dr. Lou Newman settled into his new home at Plymouth Harbor on Sarasota Bay, he found the personal freedom to turn his lifelong passion for photography into a new professional outlet. Dr. Newman is just one of our many second generation residents whose parents or relatives also understood the value and security of living at Plymouth Harbor.

When quality of life, smart planning and freedom to pursue passions and new interests are top priorities, Plymouth Harbor is the wise choice. Call us today for a tour of our award-winning campus, luxury accommodations and amenities.

700 John Ringling Blvd • Sarasota, Florida 34236 (941) 365-2600 • www.PlymouthHarbor.org Sarasota’s First Choice in Continuing Care Retirement Communities A Not-For-Profit Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) OIR #88039

PLYMOUTH HARBOR • “Dr Newman” • Full page 7.375 x 9.875 • Nov 2010 • REAL MAGAZINE GRIGSBY DESIGN • 561-870-3047 • ANNE@GRIGSBYDESIGN.COM

Selling luxury real estate in tough economic times…

…takes more than a little luck and being in the right place at the right time…

Deborah Beacham, P.A. REALTOR®, CRS, GRI, TRC Your Luxury Waterfront Specialist A solid performer – year after year Ranks 8th YTD Sales Volume out of 3,200 Sarasota Realtors

www.DeborahBeacham.com 941.376.2688

PH

Pamela Hughes Specializing in luxury residential interiors

HUGHES DESIGN ASSOCIATES Washington 703 442 3200 Sarasota 941 922 4767

www.hughesdes.com

Photography

by Giovanni Lunardi Photography

by Giovanni Lunardi

t a b lt aeb l o ff ccoo e o n tn e ntt se n t s On the Cover 24

Robert Smithson An Eye For Digital Creativity

by Kacey C. Krznaric

24

Invitation Only 42

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation: Dedicated to Finding A Cure

by Lalaena Gonzalez-Figueroa

In the News 20

International Artistic Stone, Tour of Homes Realtor/Builder Kickoff, Keller Williams

21

Kate Rossi, Home Resource, Alyssa Nohren

42

Events 14

International Artistic Stone

34

Tour of Homes Realtor/Builder Kickoff

38

Lakewood Ranch Tour of Homes

12

Perspectives 12

Design Lines – Buying Art

by Pamela Hughes

22

Interview with John Cannon

by Ed Bertha

36

Increase Sales with Underused Loan Products

by CJ Coury

40

Going Global – Citizens of the World...

Bridging The Cultural Divide

by Patricia Tan

46

Developing Better Balance During Your Golf Swing

by Chad Jones

22

Elegant Portraits Exquisite Architectural Interiors & Exteriors

www.lunardi.com 941-359-9155

Executive Publisher Ed Bertha

Design and Layout Karen Krier

Cover Photography Giovanni Lunardi

Contributing Writers Tracy Eisnaugle Lalaena Gonzalez-Figueroa Kacey C. Krznaric

Photography Chad Spencer Giovanni Lunardi SRQ360 Sales Director Heidi Webber Executive Producer Video ViaVio; Leslie Brown Creative Director Christian Lunardi

Subscriptions and Circulation Innovative Agent Services; Tina Darling Printing Arcade Printing Production Enterprise Connections

REAL Magazine is produced monthly by Enterprise Connections, Inc. Principal office: 6743 Ashley Court, Sarasota, FL 34241. COPYRIGHT Š 2010 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 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.thereal-magazine.com.

POSTMASTER: Please send notices on Form 3579 to 2945 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, FL 34239.

Standard mail paid in Sarasota, Florida.

is the next generation in marketing and it’s about to change your world !

TAG technology is an interactive way to market directly to your audience and allows consumers to connect with your business 24/7/365. IT’s EAsY! TAG is a small barcode that can be placed in advertisements, print collateral, or signage... virtually anywhere.

When TAGs are scanned by a smartphone, the consumer can: • Automatically open a webpage • Receive a customized text message • Auto-dial your phone number • Watch your video or virtual tour • Download coupons • Make your AD interactive ers Z Dry Clean A to ct?

Conta on this text Show/menti fore 941-351-0024 you place message be and rder xt o Dial this number? r ne nt on you 0% discou recieve a 1 your bill.

Yes

Here is what everyone else will look like without a custom TAG:

Get the free mobile app at

TAG http:/ Standard / gettag.mobi

Add

s 6/1/10

Why look like everyone else... when you can promote your brand with a custom TAG !

Color

No

Get the free mobile app at

TAG http:/Standard / gettag.mobi

Black & White

Offer expire

Yes

No

See It and Believe It! simply download the fREE Microsoft® mobile app for your phone at http://gettag.mobi. scan our custom TAG (below & right) with your smartphone and receive a TAG package discount.

A partnership supported by:

With your personalized TAG, it becomes easy to integrate your offline and online campaigns across web, mobile and print media.

Let Grapevine create your custom TAG incorporating your own logo, today.

CALL Grapevine Communications, your leader in small business and next generation marketing for a complimentary TAG consultation.

You can reach us at 941.351.0024 or on the web at grapeinc.com

TAG... It’s Not a Kid’s Game Anymore!

Get the free mobile app for your phone

http:/ / gettag.mobi WINNER

1

per p esr p s pee c c tt i viev s es Design Lines Buying Art

By Pamela Hughes Pamela Hughes, the founder and owner of Hughes Design Associates, is well known nationally and internationally. Hughes Design Associates is one of the premier interior design firms known throughout North America for specializing in prestigious custom interiors. In Sarasota, Pamela has completed many exceptional projects including The Ritz-Carlton, The Members’ Beach Club, The Tower Residences, and Plaza at Five Points. Pamela may be reached at 941.922.4767 or visit www.hughesdes.com.

I

n a column a few months ago, I wrote about the art of framing. Now, after spending a few weeks searching the art markets for clients, it seems appropriate to write about the selection and purchasing of art.

The phrase, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” is never as true as it is with art. Even educated and totally knowledgeable art critics can have different views on a particular piece of art.

Sometimes art is selected because the viewer sees it as pleasant, calming, beautiful, technically well-produced, shocking, avant-garde, valuable, or as a good investment

for resale. All of this art can be “good”, if it is simply selected due to personal preference or intent.

Generally, the person who is new to art will select a piece that is pleasant or beautiful. They may not know the techniques used or even care; they just like the art for its decorative value. This is wonderful – art should be a part of everyone’s life whether one is an art expert or not.

Some collectors like avant-garde art which can often be outrageous, sometimes arousing, or simply something new.

Some of this avant-garde art is not understood by either the novice or the professional. But it is a new expression and often offers us a new way of looking at something Continued on page 45, see “Buying Art”

by Wolf Kahn, White House to the Left, 2006, oil on canvas, 40 x 48 inches

12

|

REAL Magazine

|

by Hubert-Denis Etcheverry, a French artist born in 1867. The painting is large, measuring 62 inches high by 88 inches wide, and was purchased from a private collection in Paris.

Titled “Confidences -- The Secret”

www.the-real-magazine.com

LAKEWOOD RANCH SPOTLIGHT

LETTER FROM

This year’s Tour of Homes broke the record in attendance!

Jimmy Stewart Director of Sales & Project Management, LWR Communities The real estate season has certainly started here in Lakewood Ranch.

The month of October was a record setting month for us—with 18 sales in the last 18 days, for a total of 49 sales and reservations for the month!

This is more than double our activity from 2009 and we know this means we are in for a great season. If you haven’t been out to Lakewood Ranch lately, you are missing out on some great new models and new builders.

This year alone, we have added 11 new model homes and 18 more are on the way for 2011. In fact, at the end of the first quarter of 2011, there will be more than 50 new home models to see in Lakewood Ranch.

That is unprecedented both in this area and around the state. Average selling prices are coming in over $500,000! But with new communities like Pat Neal’s Central Park, our prices start in the mid $100’s. We invite everyone to come see the new and changing face of Lakewood Ranch!

Go to www.lakewoodranch.com or call 941.907.6000 to discover more about living on the Ranch.

Play tag! Learn how at: lakewoodranch.com

TOUR OF HOMES wraps up The 2010 Tour of Homes was a huge success for Lakewood Ranch! More visitors came through our information centers and models than ever before. The 13th annual event that showcases all of the fabulous ranch builders featured 29 models from 14 different builders. Next year, the Tour of Homes will include more than 50 models due to new additions coming in 2011. If you missed it this time around, it's not too late to visit any of our beautiful models—they are open daily.

Stop by any Lakewood Ranch Information center for a map and a free guided tour of the community.

LOVE LWR? Become a fan today, go to: www.facebook.com/LakewoodRanch.

+2 MARKET trends Lakewood Ranch is proud to welcome two new builders! Congratulations to TruLiving Homes and Cardel Homes for joining the team. TruLiving Homes has a model underway in Country Club East and Cardel has already started their model in Central Park.

To get acquainted with all the builder’s making homes on the Ranch go to www.lakewoodranch.com for more information.

Don’t miss the new store that just opened on Main Street.

Artisans features items from around the world and gives back to artisans who are below the poverty level.

Here are some upcoming dates to save: December 3 Music on Main Music on Main! Free monthly street party with live music December 4 Farmer’s Market from 9am-1pm December 4 The Scottish Festival Returns with Country Singing sensation David Nail!

December 10 Holidays on the Ranch from 9am-1pm December 11 Breakfast with Santa Macallisters Restaurant 8:30am-10:30am

For more details on Main Street events and other upcoming events, go to www.lwrevents.com

ev e vee n n tt s s

International Artistic Stone Event

Text realevent to 90210 for more information.

14

|

REAL Magazine

|

www.the-real-magazine.com

Host: International Artistic Stone, Linda Sloan Prudential Palms Realty Photography: Chad Spencer Platinum Sponsor: Steven Bramley Construction

Sponsors: America’s Super Pawn American Granite - Florida Carlos Diaz Massage Therapist CMS Photography The Granite Place Green Roofing Technologies HomeBanc Innovative Agent Services

Hughes Design Associates Lucas Lagoons Maduro’s Cigar & Bar Szambelan Vodka Transformative Touch Tropex Yesner & Boss

www.the-real-magazine.com

|

REAL Magazine

|

15

Mirta Matheu Klauber REALTOR®, GRI

Matching People with Properties and Lifestyles

ASk YouR REALToR

WHY

THEY ARE noT RunnInG An Ad To SELL YouR HoME In

REAL Magazine

Exceptional Properties visible – Exclusive – Affordable Text real to 90210 for information Snap the Microsoft Tag to speak with REAL Magazine REAL Magazine | Local Focus | Global Reach www.the-real-magazine.com info@the-real-magazine.com | 941.921.2117

941.704.6749 MirtaKlauber@MichaelSaunders.com www.SarasotaPropertiesUnlimited.com

When you never compromise, people notice.

Come and see for yourself!

CGCA 18551 CGCA 18551

P R I VAT E M O R T G A G E B A N K I N G

Focused knowledge. n

Condo financing specialists

n

Jumbo financing

n

Reverse mortgages1

Experience a legendary difference.

Contact us today!

The Penny Hill Group Penny Hill • Scott Kolbe 941-361-5731 www.pennyhillgroup.com 1. Reverse mortgage borrowers must be at least 62 years of age.

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Š 2010 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. AS294992 9/10-12/10

CPA Associates We Stay Ahead, So You Don’t Fall Behind.

Keeping up with business tax law and accounting changes requires a 24/7 effort. Good thing you don’t have to lose sleep keeping up with it all. CPA Associates stays on top of the latest changes in tax code and accounting requirements, allowing you to use your time doing what you do best... managing your business.

Providing Solid Solutions Through: } Business Consulting

}

Litigation Support

} Tax Planning and Preparation

}

Internal Audits

} Business Valuation

}

Estates and Trusts

} Audits, Reviews, and Compilations

}

Fraud Examinations

Professional Advice.

Personal Attention. Putting You First.

cpa-associates.com ~ (941) 747- 4483

i n it esw s n h t he e nn ew International Artistic Stone Rocking REAL Event It was so cool it was HOT! Hosted by Linda Sloan of Prudential Palms Realty at International Artistic Stone’s fabrication shop, guests enjoyed an interactive evening of “old world” artisan stone work. Transformed into an art gallery the shop displayed many examples of intricate hand carvings ranging from figurines to fireplaces to bas-reliefs. Beyond the terrific displays visitors watched stone masons handcraft stonework, Left to Right Ed Bertha, Irini viewed massive machinery taking on blocks of and Robert Krolikiewicz stone and for the finale cheered on a stone mason as he split a 10-ton block of stone by hand.

The event was sponsored by: America’s Super Pawn, American Granite – Florida, Carlos Diaz Massage Therapist, CMS Photography, The Granite Place, Green Roofing Technologies, HomeBanc, Hughes Design Associates, Lucas Lagoons, Maduro’s Cigar & Bar, Steven Bramley Construction, Szambelan Vodka, Transformative Touch, Tropex and Yesner & Boss.

2010 Tour Of Homes Realtor/Builder Kick Off The Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club opened up their doors to Realtors and builders participating in the 2010 Tour of Homes. The event kicked off with the stone masons from International Artistic Stone plying their handiwork.

The event then moved upstairs to the ball room for more socializing and a wonderfully prepared buffet dinner. Attendees were the first to take home a copy of the 2010 Tour of Homes Program Guide.

Builders featured in the 2010 Tour of Homes: Arthur Rutenberg Homes/ Nelson Homes, Bruce Williams Homes, Gibraltar Homes, John Cannon Homes, Lee Wetherington Homes, London Bay Homes, Minto Communities, Neal Communities, Paradise Homes of Sarasota, Peregrine Homes and TruLiving Homes. A special welcome to Cardel Homes.

Sponsorship was provided by: Cutting Edge Architectural Moldings, CMS Photography, Green Roofing Technologies, Innovative Agent Services, International Artistic Stone and The Penny Hill Group.

Keller Williams On The Water Launches Luxury Division Joanne Owens, Broker-Owner of Keller Williams On the Water, announced that Coffey & Company Realty merged with Keller Williams On the Water.

The merger resulted in the creation of the firm’s new Luxury Homes Division.

Brandy Coffey and Ricardo “Ric” Ruiz Del Vizo will work alongside Owens to launch the Luxury Homes Division.

“We are thrilled that Brandy and Ric have made the decision to partner with us in the launching of the exclusive, and internationally recognized, Luxury Homes Division. We simply cannot think of two better individuals to bring this opportunity to fruition in the Sarasota area,” stated Owens.

20

|

REAL Magazine

|

www.the-real-magazine.com

i n it esw s n h t he e nn ew Kate Rossi To Lead SE Region Of NRT As EVP. NRT, parent company to Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, announced that Kate Rossi assumed the position of executive vice president for NRT’s Southeast Region of the U.S. Rossi will operate out of the company’s Sarasota office.

Most recently she served as president of NRT’s Coldwell Banker brokerage in Connecticut and Westchester County, N.Y. In her new role, she will now oversee nine distinct markets throughout Florida, Georgia and Texas, representing more than 100 brokerage offices and 6,300 sales associates, all working under the Coldwell Banker banner.

A Powerful Combination of Skills & Talent Design Education, Construction Experience, Marketing Expertise A Fresh Perspective with Concierge Service

Bruce Zipf, president and chief executive officer of NRT LLC, said, “Kate’s dynamic leadership style and deep knowledge of the Coldwell Banker brand have served her well in numerous executive posts with the company as she has consistently led each operating company to new heights. I am confident that those qualities will continue to bring her success in her new, expanded role in the Southeast.”

“I am honored and excited about the opportunity to lead our Southeast Region and its outstanding team.” Rossi said. “Our organizational goal is to consistently provide our customers with exceptional real estate service and positive results, particularly in today’s challenging market.”

Home Resource Selected As Fritz Hansen Dealer Danish furniture designer and manufacturer Fritz Hansen selected Home Resource of Sarasota as the Florida West Coast dealer for its prestigious collection of furniture designs.

Home Resource will carry Fritz Hansen’s lines of lounge, dining and office chairs, sofas and tables. The family owned store, located in the Rosemary neighborhood in Sarasota’s arts district, is one of only two Florida retailers selected to carry furniture by Fritz Hansen (the other is in Miami).

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Fritz Hansen,” said Home Resource owner Michael Bush. “Fritz Hansen’s design theory is compatible with our store’s aesthetic, and by offering products by the likes of Jacobsen, Kjaerholm and Jehs+Laub, we are able to deliver on the level of design excellence and excitement that our customers have come to expect from Home Resource.”

Alyssa Nohren Appointed Secretary of Sarasota County Bar Association.

Alyssa Nohren, an attorney with Icard, Merrill, Cullis, Timm, Furen & Ginsburg, PA., was recently appointed as Secretary and a member of the Board of Directors of the Sarasota County Bar Association.

Established in 1926, SCBA is a voluntary organization of lawyers and judges who practice law and administer the judicial system in Sarasota County. The mission of the group is to promote professionalism, encourage public service, foster fellowship, and support access to legal services for all.

Nohren joined Icard Merrill in 2006 and practices real estate law, specializing in residential and commercial real estate transactions, mobile home law, and real estate litigation. An alumna of University of Florida, Nohren is a member of the Sarasota County Bar Association, The Florida Bar, and the 12th Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee. She was recently honored as a Rising Star on the 2010 listing of Florida Super Lawyers, a publication that includes no more than 5% of the lawyers in the state. Nohren is active in numerous civic and non-profit groups, including a board position with the Wellness Community and PACE Center for Girls, Inc.

Tracy Eisnaugle Realtor Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate St. Armand’s 423 St. Armand’s Circle Sarasota, Fl. 34236 direct 941.232.3358 fax 941.388.3231 www.FloridaMoves.com/ Tracy.Eisnaugle tracy.eisnaugle@florida.moves.com

www.the-real-magazine.com

|

REAL Magazine

|

21

per p esr p s pee c c tt i viev s es Interview With Builder John Cannon

By Ed Bertha cost them. Unlike some builders, we still encourage our homeowners to select finishes and details that are unique for their family and lifestyle but we have standardized a lot of our pricing. We’ve eliminated the anxiety and uncertainty in buying a new home.

John Cannon graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelors of Science in Building Construction and first came to Sarasota in 1979 to work for a national builder.

Shortly thereafter, he and his wife Phillipa founded the firm bearing his name, and have been building luxurious custom homes for nearly 25 years in many of southwest Florida’s most prestigious communities. Sitting with John at his new Tauri model we had a chance to talk about the market and the changes John Cannon Homes has undergone.

EB Have you changed your approach in dealing with Realtors?

JC Realtors have always been, and will continue to be, a vital referral source for our company.

As a way to reward our Realtors for their hard work, we are currently paying their commissions at contract signing so our Realtors do not have to wait for a closing or for the slab to be poured.

It sounds a little strange to be excited to write checks but our realtors represent 50% of our sales and are very important to us. It is great to compensate them so quickly.

EB John, you’re selling homes and launching new models in a price range that before the run up was considered luxury. What did your firm do to get traction in the market?

JC Ed, we have the best subcontractors in the market and we didn’t want to lose them. We met with every sub and had a frank discussion.

2005 is gone. We have been able to reduce our prices and costs to a point where we can offer new homes at similar prices as short sales and foreclosures with all of the benefits of new construction; i.e. newest designs that meet or exceed the latest construction codes, energy saving appliances, impact resistant windows and sliding glass doors, and homes with warranties.

EB With your new approach yielding buyers, are you now in a position to compete against short sales and foreclosures?

JC We certainly are. Distressed properties are often neglected, damaged, and after no love and care, can have many hidden problems.

Naturally, a new home with a warranty that is built to current codes and efficiencies would be a much better investment that a questionable distressed property. Why would anyone choose to buy that type of home when we can put them in a brand new home, with a warranty, at a competitive price?

We have also simplified our sales model. We want our homeowners to know exactly what they are buying and exactly how much it will

22

|

REAL Magazine

|

EB You mentioned technology advancements since 2005. What benefits do these advancements bring to today’s home buyers?

JC If you compare operating costs of a home built in 2005 and a new home today there are

www.the-real-magazine.com

significant savings. Take our new Tauri model.

At 3,141 square feet under air operating costs, electric, water, insurance, etc., can run as much as $3,000 a year less than a similar sized home built in 2005. New construction codes, advances in windows and insulation along with items like tankless water heaters that provide instant hot water all contribute to the savings.

Buyers can choose to pocket the savings or at today’s mortgage rates buy an extra $75,000 $100,000 of home. That’s significant.

EB Back to foreclosures. I just heard you say beyond competitive pricing, technology advancements make owning a home built around 2005 significantly more expensive than a new home today. Why not look at new construction?

JC You are absolutely right. When you consider a competitive fixed cost to build, annual operating cost savings and the peace of mind of a warranty there are very few instances where we cannot be competitive with distressed properties. It just doesn’t make sense not to give us a chance to compete. We are very competitive.

EB John, one last question sailing or skiing?

JC Right now Phillipa and myself are enjoying our two children, Rachel and Jack, as we realize that too soon we’ll be empty-nesters.

Rachel is a senior, Jack a junior, both at Outof-Door Academy and their extracurricular sporting activities keep us on the go during the school year. As for the holidays, skiing with our family in Wyoming is our passion and we thoroughly enjoy it... almost as much as we love building homes!

Green Roofing Technologies

Division of Anmar Builders, Inc.

Residential & Commercial Roofing Clay & Concrete Tile Flat Roofs TPO Singleply Roof Systems Reroofs Metal

Mobile Homes Tapered Roof Insulation Systems Industrial Roof Systems Roof Repairs

Install

Altusa Carlisle Certain Teed Eagle Entegra Girard GAF

IB Roof Systems Monier Mull Hide TPO Owens Corning Thompson Metals Union Metals

Quality Roofing Services at Fair Prices | Licensed, Bonded, and Insured Statewide Service in Florida Robert Brown | Owner | Certified Roofing Professional | robbytheroofer@yahoo.com 2647 Harbor Circle | Clearwater, Florida 33759 | 727.768.3067 | 813.388.7370 CCC057571 | CGC15164228 | CGC056369

Robert Smithson An Eye For Digital Creativity Born in the town of Hull, Yorkshire England, northeast of London, Robert Smithson was being groomed for the business world. He was beginning to discover his own personal formula for success at the tender age of 14 when he began working in his father’s graphics factory. His drive led him up the ladder and through the ranks at the company, all while instilling in him a strong work ethic, teaching him the importance of persistence, and giving him the confidence he needed to later become the successful businessman he is today.

Robert Smithson An Eye For Digital Creativity Innate Creativity, a Passion for Business, and Personal Ambition: The Driving Force Behind the Success of Trinity Graphic

We Can Design It, We Can Print It 1987 was an important year for Smithson, as his life was on the brink of taking an entirely new direction; the start of a chapter that would pave the way for him to use his many talents and skills that have been refined over the years and open doors, giving him the opportunity to take himself and his business one step ahead of the competition.

Smithson’s father was interested in expanding their business and opening a facility in the United States, appointing his son as the leading man on the new venture. While Smithson had a tremendous amount of confidence in himself, he was hesitant to take on such a vital role in the future of the company. Rather uneasy about the trip, he packed up and headed out to Clearwater, Florida; a city that housed one of the company’s biggest accounts. While visiting the area he was told by a local businessman to take a look at Sarasota; that it was a beautiful town and well worth taking the time to see. From the moment Smithson’s feet touched the white talcum powder sand of Siesta Key, he had subconsciously already made the decision that Sarasota was going to be the birth place of Trinity Graphic’s first US facility. While the location was an easy decision, this business venture would not be without obstacles for Smithson and the company.

In order to start up the business, Smithson needed a loan. The English banks wouldn’t lend him the money because the facility being opened was outside of the country and the American banks wouldn’t lend him

26

|

REAL Magazine

|

www.the-real-magazine.com

the money because he had no established credit. So, reaching deep inside for that persistence that Robert knew would be instrumental in growing a successful business, he took a risk and used the money he had to purchase some equipment to get the US facility up and running.

From here, he hired and trained some American workers and began the journey of putting all of his blood, sweat, and tears into making Trinity Graphic a well-known name, himself a well-respected businessman, and the company an undying and growing success.

At the newly opened facility, they began making Flexographic printing plates for labels, cartons, plastic bags and anything that had to do with packaging.

Whilst in England Robert and his father Keith, created a technology that enabled the printer to emboss labels with polymers, as opposed to metals, saving them approximately 70% of their costs. Becoming experts at utilizing this new technology, Gallo Winery became their largest account. As they continued to grow, they were able to purchase two 10 foot wide UV inkjet digital printing machines, and a large digital die cutting device. These advanced machines allow Trinity to print on glass, metallics, and basically any raw material you can bring to the table, they also produce custom banners, posters and signage. Trinity is working on a new product with local renowned decorative Artist Lisa Sparling, to create custom wall coverings, cut precisely to the shape of the image. With only 8 of these digital imaging machines in the entire country, Trinity Graphic finally had the edge they needed in the industry and put their company on the map.

One of the most notable products that Trinity Graphic has put out in recent years is the ARMagnet; a large, customized magnet in the shape of a muscular arm that applies to the door of a car, blending in flawlessly with the body of the person driving. The idea came from Michael Gruttaduaria, a former NFL football player for the St. Louis Rams. He shared the idea with Smithson after he was inspired by seeing a woman with her arm hanging out of the window, holding a cigar.

Flex A Little Muscle In Your Business!

Inspecting tumbler inserts

Trinity’s unique printing process results in customizable insulated tumblers This struck Gruttaduaria, and he quickly snapped a picture with his camera and shared it with Smithson. Trinity Graphic brought the very creative idea to fruition with their highly technical and state-of-the-art equipment and amply artistic team of staff, putting out made-to-order personalized arms for anyone, holding just about anything they’d like. This new product grew in popularity and was adopted by local high schools and major sports leagues, turning the ARMagnet into booming fundraisers for sports teams and other extracurricular activities. They began customizing ARMagnets for students and their parents, holding anything from a football to baseball glove to an instrument, complete with the student’s name and applicable sporting number. Along with this, Trinity Graphic and Gruttadauria also designed custom ARMagnets for Outback Steakhouse. Staying true to the company’s Australian roots, Trinity Graphic constructed ARMagnets for the restaurant chain, each arm holding a boomerang.

As time marched on, Smithson’s name and reputation became more prevalent among Sarasota residents as a young, up and coming professional with fresh ideas and an instinctive knack for marketing and merchandising. Soon, Smithson was meeting with the CEO of Tervis Tumbler Laura Spencer, along with marketing representatives to work on improving their products and taking Tervis Tumbler to the next level. With Smithson’s experience and creative approach he brings to his projects, plus his unique to the area digital printing and die cutting equipment, Trinity Graphic was able to print a 4 color image, and then a layer of white, and then 4 color again in perfect registration, creating customized insulated tumblers.

These allowed an image on the outside and an image on the inside to appear thus creating a jaw dropping new look to the product. From here, they began making custom Tumblers for sporting events, weddings, golf outings, and 2 well known brands- Disney and the NFL. Smithson keeps himself very busy with a career that is constantly evolving and is not just focused on his company

Trinity Graphic USA. One of his other interesting roles is business manager for Jonathan and Andy Hillstand; captains of the crab fishing boat “Time Bandit” as seen on DSC channel’s The Deadliest Catch. He’s developed several products with the Hillstand brothers such as a Bloody Mary mix, Vodka and Tequila products plus 2 types of Rum, with the Time Bandit captains as the face of the brand. They also rely on Smithson to check the business proposals they receive and advise them as to the direction to go.

Furthermore, Smithson is very involved with the Sarasota Film Festival- one of the largest film festivals in the United States, sitting on the executive board member panel and co-designing with Gary Bibler, Trinity Design President, and Vince Fraser from the UK, (vincefraser.com), the image you see behind him on this month’s cover of REAL Magazine. Smithson describes the event as “a great joy” and says, “It’s exciting to be around so many fantastic and talented people.” The Sarasota Film Festival will be held again in 2011, beginning on April 7th and running to the 18th.

Robert Smithson has not lost sight of those who helped him get to where he is today and accredits the support and encouragement of his family, friends, and those positive influences around him, particularly a man named Bill Ceperich who he sees as a father figure, “He’s helped me structure myself both personally and in business,” and also helped his long time friend and Trinity president Mark Barnard. Robert also states that his business skills have been greatly developed by being a member of TEC/Vistage, a worldwide group of business owners and CEO’s. His membership has allowed him to better decide on difficult business decisions, and his team of local businessmen acts like an additional board of directors.

Smithson met his beautiful wife Angela in Boston in 1998.

What started as a blind date, Robert knew right away after meeting her that she was the woman he wanted to be with for the rest of his life. They dated only a short period of time

“Tervis and Trinity Graphic teamed up to develop a high-end printing process that allows Tervis to layer a double-sided image between the two walls of their insulated tumbler. The result is an eye-catching image that can be viewed on both the outside and inside of the tumbler. In addition, Trinity’s order lead times, coupled with their close proximity to Tervis’ manufacturing facility, has been essential in meeting customer’s needs.”

Wayne VarnadoreVice President Operations, Tervis Tumbler

Visit http://bit.ly/a8B3Ys on YouTube to experience the Smithson’s Haunted Ball

before Robert surprised her with a proposal, immediately followed by marrying her on the stairs of a family member’s house on Siesta Key. Robert had schemed and told Angela they were going to the house that evening with the plan of attending a 40th wedding anniversary of his brother Simon’s mother and father in law. However, this was just a ruse to enable Robert to pop the question. When the couple got out of the car, the garage doors opened and inside were friends and family members that Robert had flown in from Boston and overseas, along with family and friends that lived locally. He got down on one knee, proposed, and she graciously accepted. The pair immediately went up the staircase of the house, where a beautiful wedding location was set up and they held the ceremony right there on the property. He prides himself on pulling off a surprise wedding, and was happy that his trusted friends never let the cat out of the bag, Angela never got wind of anything and even wore a black dress and took some Italian eggplant as a dish for the hosts. The two have added to their beautiful family with 2 boys, Robbie (11 years old) and Keith (10 years old) and 2 dogs, a black lab named Jess and a Jack Russell Terrier named Jackie.

Smithson’s personal life is just as creative and imaginative as the work he does in the printing facility. His wife is very much into Halloween and, drawing Robert in, the couple now holds a huge annual Halloween party at their home in Sarasota. They begin the elaborate decoration of the interior of their home about 3 months before the holiday and spend approximately 2 weeks leading up the holiday preparing the outside of their home. The event can be expected to entertain 120-150 guests, complete with ghosts flying tree to tree, a life-like “spinning head” from the Carrie movies, and a smoky haunted maze for the children.

Smithson, an avid architectural salvage piece and antiquities collectorincluding possessions such as weathered gargoyles, antique glass windows, and a dinosaur fossil of a Psittacosaurus that is 300 million years old from Mongolia- he also has a love for cooking. His home is complete with a

large kitchen that has an Italian wood burning pizza oven. Robert doesn’t discriminate on cooking style, preparing foods from all different ethnic backgrounds. However, reigning from England, Robert loves cooking English food and would consider it one of his specialties. “Many people think that English food is bland,” says Smithson “but I make food that is far from bland.” The joy he takes in cooking is expanding outside of his personal kitchen and he will be competing in the “Men Who Cook” competition in April of 2011, a cook-off for local businessmen in the area.

From literally scrounging up pocket change to purchase machinery for Trinity Graphic’s first US facility to turning the company into an established, successful, and flourishing business several years later, Smithson remains humble and rooted. In his up and coming years, Robert suffered a tremendous tragedy as a young man when he was in a car accident that claimed the life of his then girlfriend and put him into coma.

This experience impacted Robert greatly and gave him a new perspective on life. “You must love each and every day, have good and strong ethics as an individual and in business, and enjoy life to the fullest extent” says Robert. He admits that he wouldn’t be where he is today if it weren’t for the family and friends that supported him and believed in him with all their hearts, as well as his unbelievable Trinity Graphic employees. While he acknowledges that he’s had “some luck in life,” he accredits his success and life’s happiness to those he surrounds himself with. Smithson’s life journey is truly testament to where determination (and a little bit of faith) can take you if you keep your nose to the grindstone, head to the sky, and find the ability to press on, as life will inevitably throw obstacles in your path as you rise to the top.

Trinity Graphic 885 Tallevast Road | Suite D | Sarasota, FL 34243 P (941) 355.2636 | F (941) 351.9621 | rjstrinity@aol.com www.trinitygraphic.com | www.armagnet.com | www.tervis.com

Angela and Robert preparing the “Haunted Ball Feast�

T H IS S E A S O N IIS S G O IN G T O B E THIS SEASON GOING TO BE

o n e heck h e c k of of a a ride r id e one SS A AR RA A SS O O TT A A

P PO O LL O O

C C LL U UB B

2 0 11 SSEASON E AS ON 2011 TTICKETS IC K E T S AVA IL A B L E AT HE G AT E AVAILABLE AT TTHE GATE P u b lic A lw a y s We lc o m e Public Always Welcome EEvery ve r y SSunday u n d a y aatt 1: 00 p m 1:00 pm D e c e m b e r 19 p r il 10 December 19 – A April 10 G a te s O p e n aatt 11: 0 0 aam m Gates Open 11:00 A d m is s io n : $ 10 e a ch & id s U n d e r 12 re e Admission: $10 each & K Kids Under 12 FFree

9 4 1. 9 0 7..0000 0000 941.907

w w w. s a r a s o ta p o lo . c o m www.sarasotapolo.com 2 A P 20 0 1 1 SS A AR RA A SS O O TTA PO O LL O O SS P PO ON N SS O OR R SS

L e a r n to la y P o lo Learn to P Play Polo

LLocated o c a te d in a ke w ood R a n c h : TTake a ke U n ive r s ity P a rkw a y in LLakewood Ranch: University Parkway 3. 5 m ile s e ast o I-7 5 and a n d turn tu r n right r ig h t on o n Lorraine L o r r a in e Road R oa d 3.5 miles east off I-75

enthusiast— Become a player! Whether for you or a gift for your favorite horse enthusiast— all levels of play welcome. No play or riding experience necessary!

Custom lesson and ticket gift packages available. Call 941.907.0000 today!

Deborah O’Mara

g

Lakewood Ranch Specialist

g 11

Years in LWR selling over 300 homes for a leading builder

g

Now with Michael Saunders & Company

g

7 sales and 10 listings in 10 weeks

Deborah O’Mara, your LWR Expert 941.730.0777 h deborahomara@michaelsaunders.com

www.deborahomara.michaelsaunders.com 8325 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard h Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202

HOME FINANCING

HomeBanc is adaptable and responsive in meeting the needs of a changing market.

We are dedicated to providing personal attention, out-of-the-box solutions and impeccable customer service.

SOUND APPRAISALS RESPONSIVE UNDERWRITERS IN-HOUSE PROCESSING PORTFOLIO PRODUCTS

C J Coury, Vice President Mortgage Branch Manager 6230 University Parkway, Suite 101 Sarasota, FL 34240 941-806-1140 Direct Line 941-730-2444 Cell cj.coury@homebanc.com www.homebanc.com

at homebanc...we’re distinctively different

Smooth. Solid. Beautiful.

Stop dreaming and make it happen .

You deserve it.

If you’re ready to give your home that unmistakable charm of natural stone or wood countertops, trust the talented experts at Distinctive Surfaces. With over 20 years of experience serving Florida, our highly trained professionals can transform your kitchen, bathroom or outdoor entertainment area into a timeless work of art.

Get the free mobile your phone Scan app ourfor TAG above

http:/ / gettag.mobi to visit our website.

No matter what your style, we are committed to making your dream home a reality.

To learn more about our complete custom countertop services, from initial design through installation, call 941. 377.7747 or visit

dsiflorida.com.

Get the free mobile app for your smartphone at: http://gettag.mobi

Quality Products ~ Fast Turnaround ~ Affordable Pricing ~ Flawless Results

Sarasota ~ Tampa ~ Tallahassee ~ Ocala

Granite ~ Corian ® ~ Zodiaq ® ~ HanStone™ ~ Silestone® ~ Natural Wood

ev e vee n n tt s s

Lakewood Ranch Tour of Homes Realtor/Builder Kickoff

Text realevent to 90210 for more information.

34

|

REAL Magazine

|

www.the-real-magazine.com

Host: Lakewood Ranch Communities Builders: Arthur Rutenberg Homes/Nelson Homes Bruce Williams Homes Cardel Homes Gibraltar Homes John Cannon Homes Lee Wetherington Homes

London Bay Homes Minto Communities Neal Communities Paradise Homes of Sarasota Peregrine Homes TruLiving Homes

Sponsors: Cutting Edge Architectural Moldings CMS Photography Green Roofing Technologies Innovative Agent Services International Artistic Stone The Penny Hill Group

www.the-real-magazine.com

|

REAL Magazine

|

35

per p esr p s pee c c tt i viev s es Increase Sales With Underused Loan Products

By CJ Coury

C. J. Coury is a Vice President with HomeBanc and oversees the Greater Sarasota market. He has been a mortgage finance professional since 1983. C. J. may be reached at (941) 730-2444 or by email at cj.coury@homebanc.com.

W

With the tightening of mortgage loan underwriting criteria we have experienced a much higher percentage of cash buyers than at any time since the creation of Fannie Mae. This phenomenon will continue to forestall the housing recovery for months to come unless we work harder to find ways to provide financing to those buyers who do not have the ability to pay cash.

One way to help combat the effects of the increased difficulty in obtaining financing is to look beyond the standard mortgage loan products to some of the less commonly used but highly valuable options available to many potential buyers in today’s market. Here are a few such programs: HomePath by Fannie Mae • Available with as little as 3% down (10% down for second home and rental properties) • Credit scores as low as 660 • No Appraisal Required • No PMI • There are 349 eligible properties in the tri-county area as of the date of this writing

use for down payment and/or closing costs • No minimum credit score • Primary residence only • Income and contract price limits apply – check with a knowledgeable lender to determine buyer eligibility Think about the number of buyers that these financing options could add to your production and begin marketing to them today!

MARY L. PATTERSON, SRA State Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser RD2516

Appraising Residential Properties For: Estate and Divorce Settlement Lending Institutions Property Disputes | Guardianships Tax Disputes | Investors | Realtors

USDA Rural Development Loan • No down payment required • No PMI • No minimum credit score • There are limits to income and property location – check with a knowledgeable lender to determine buyer eligibility Florida Housing Bond Program • Conventional and Government loan types • Up to $7,500 in second mortgage funds available to

PATTERSON APPRAISAL GROUP, INC

Qualified Expert Witness 941-750-6600 www.ValuationFlorida.com

Serving Southwest Florida Since 1992 36

|

REAL Magazine

|

www.the-real-magazine.com

www.ValuationFlorida.com Mary@ValuationFlorida.com

ev e vee n n tt s s Lakewood Ranch 2010 Tour of Homes

Featured these fine builders Arthur Rutenberg Bruce Williams Homes Homes/nelson Homes

38

|

REAL Magazine

|

www.the-real-magazine.com

Gibraltar Homes

John Cannon Homes

Lee Wetherington Homes

London Bay Homes

Minto Communities

neal Communities

Paradise Homes of Sarasota

Peregrine Homes

www.the-real-magazine.com

TruLiving Homes.

|

REAL Magazine

|

39

per p esr p s pee c c tt i viev s es Go Global - Citizens of the World... Bridging The Cultural Divide

By Patricia Tan

I

Patricia Tan was born in England, and moved to Sarasota in 1997. Her career afforded her the opportunity to live and work in many countries around the world, including Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Germany, France, Belgium, Netherlands and the United Kingdom. She spent five years as a Director of an American real estate franchise in England in 1990s. Patricia has served as Chairperson of Sarasota Association of REALTORS®’ International Council, and serves on Florida Association of REALTORS®’ International Operations Committee. She currently works as International Sales Director for Prudential Palms Realty. Patricia may be reached at 941-504-9232 or pat@patriciatan.com.

recently returned from marketing trips to the United Kingdom and China – two very different countries and cultures, I think you will agree. In the many hours of plane-sitting I endured, I had time to reflect upon the ways in which we work to bridge the divide that different cultures and languages often bring to us in international business situations.

“Two nations separated by a common language” is how George Bernard Shaw described the U.S.A. and U.K. It is easy to assume that, as we speak a common language, doing business in England should be the same as in America. Not so! In the world of real estate we tend to lapse into our own jargon very easily, and many of those words do not translate into English. Our problems with tainted dry wall for instance, might be referred to as “Chinese plaster board problems” in U.K. Until recently most Brits thought a short sale was one that closed (or “completed” in their jargon) in a very short time – the average time for a contract to close in England is 90 to 120 days, a lot longer than our usual 45 days for a transaction that does not involve a short sale. A foreclosed home in England would be deemed to be “repossessed” by the bank. Our survey that provides a nicely drawn picture of the land and buildings on it would only be half a U.K. survey – a survey there includes most of what we refer to as a home inspection. Nevertheless, an “almost” common language does give one a certain sense of security when working with British business associates or clients.

The same cannot be said when working in a country where English is not widely spoken. The feeling of alienation is heightened in a country where the home language uses a different alphabet or symbols. Most of us can guess at the meaning of some Spanish, French and even German words but this is much harder to do with Russian for instance, and even more so for those languages that are symbol based, such as Chinese and Japanese. Even appreciating Chinese in its spoken form can be a challenge, as there are so many different dialects and accents to deal with. Even if a conversation is held in Chinese, or with the help of interpreters, westerners need to appreciate key differences in how the different cultures express themselves. Chinese are typically less expressive of their emotions in public and in particular in a business setting. Their sentence structure may be short and to the point, minus many of the adverbs and other qualifying words we so regularly use in English. Written Chinese does not have tenses, so words will be used to explain the passage of time – tomorrow, next week, last month, etc. For those of us who speak Chinese, it may still be a challenge if it is not our first language. Each “word” can be spoken with four different tones, and mean four completely different things, so unless you are very confident in your language skills, as a foreigner, use of an interpreter may still be the best advice! Be aware that some jargon, slang and colloquialisms will simply not translate – whether into Chinese or many other languages.

Examples I have encountered recently include “dumb waiter” (a server who cannot speak) and “butler’s pantry” (a food closet that belongs to a servant).

That being said, people are generally appreciative when you try to

40

|

REAL Magazine

|

www.the-real-magazine.com

communicate with them in their own language and may forgive a transgression caused by mispronunciation. This may not be the case however, with cultural insensitivity. It is much easier to give offence through actions than words!

Take the simple act of making an introduction or greeting someone.

While shaking hands is widely accepted in the west, the firm handshake preferred by most Americans may not be reciprocated in a positive manner by British business associates who prefer a lighter touch.

Although many Chinese today will shake hands, their own custom is to nod or bow slightly. If you are to shake hands – allow your Chinese counterpart to extend their hand first.

What about giving and receiving business cards? Use of a business card when meeting with Brits is not considered essential by them. They will happily exchange cards and place your card in their pocket or casually place it on the table in front of them. Not so in China, where business cards are an essential component of a first meeting. Cards must be presented using both hands to hold the top of the card at the corners, so it can be easily read by the person you are presenting it to. The Chinese will accept the card using both hands, take a few moments to study it and then place it reverently in front of them so they can refer to it during the meeting. Having received a card from a Chinese associate, one should NEVER disregard it, place it in a pocket or folder, cover it on the table and most certainly not write notes on it!

Once a relationship has been established with a British person, and depending upon the circumstances, it may acceptable to greet them with a light kiss on both cheeks at future meetings. The Chinese, however, prefer not to be touched by people they do not know. A kiss or a hug would not be warmly received!

Gift giving in other countries can also present challenges. If you are invited to the home of a British person, it would be appropriate to take a gift of chocolates, liquor or flowers, but don’t take while lilies as these signify death and could bring an early end to any business discussions!

The Chinese will refuse to accept your gift, but be persistent. They will take it only after you insist at least three times. At this point you should say you are pleased they have accepted your gift. They will not open the gift while you are present, to avoid any potential embarrassment. Care should be taken also not to indicate death by your gift – do not wrap it in white paper. Choose a happy or lucky color – red, pink or yellow.

How can you avoid making these and similar mistakes when you travel or meet natives of other countries here in U.S.A? Get educated! Do some research before you travel. The internet is a great tool for this. Find someone from that country who lives in the U.S. and can brief you on local customs and how they may differ from things we do here.

Technology and easy travel options are making the world smaller. When you are presented with an opportunity to get to know someone from another culture, I urge you to bridge the gap between your two cultures.

Let us all take a lesson from Socrates who said “I am not an Athenian or a Greek, but a citizen of the world”.

This Blonde Knows Alot About

Deck the Halls at Ca’ d’Zan Friday, December 3, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

Full–service luxury and coastal residential design 75 Cocoanut Avenue, Sarasota ~ 941.953.4418 Please visit our showroom Current ~ www.sallytroutinteriors.com

SARASOTA CATERING COMPANY Fabulous Food Service with Style

(941)

927.7675

Cindi Shoe would love to help you with your next event!

www.SarasotaCateringCompany.com

941.358.3180 FL License #0002504

SAlly A. trout InterIor DeSIgn

Join us for a special twilight celebration of the holidays benefitting the Ca’ d’Zan preservation fund and the Aeolian DuoArt Pipe Organ. Enjoy holiday cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, music, and an open house while supporting this fabulous historic home. Tickets $75.

For reservation/donation information call

THE JOHN AND MABLE RINGLING MUSEUM OF ART THE STATE ART MUSEUM OF FLORIDA THE FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY Open 10 AM –5 PM daily, Thursdays until 8 PM 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota • 941.359.5700 • www.ringling.org

i n v iintva i tt a tii o o nno no l yn ly

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation: Dedicated To Finding A Cure

By Lalanena Gonzalez-Figueroa

T

he faces of juvenile diabetes don’t always depict the pain, frustration and fear that often accompanies the diagnosis and its lifelong ramifications. That’s why when Kathy Herbst speaks about the disease, she sometimes brings a bag full of syringes to drive home the impact that families must absorb. “With insulin shots four times a day, plus up to ten daily pricks to test blood sugar, a child may use upwards of five hundred syringes in a single month,” she explains. As development coordinator for the Florida Suncoast Chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), Kathy does double duty as a firsthand example of the opportunities to thrive in adversity. She was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the tender age of five, and understands the daily struggles involved with the disease.

The Suncoast Chapter of JDRF was founded in 1994 by Phyllis and Sol Steingard, whose granddaughter Britni was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a child. The couple, who divide their time between Longboat Key and Cape Cod, were astonished to discover that the Sarasota region didn’t have a support system in place for other families and individuals affected by the disease. A grassroots effort to build awareness quickly blossomed into a local organization that is now making a tremendous impact on countless lives, every day of the year, serving 10 counties from Manatee to Marco Island and halfway across the state.

“Our main outreach goals are to raise awareness, increase caring, and help find the cure for type 1 diabetes,” says Kathy.

“Since my own diagnosis, I have seen drastic improvements in the technology and information used to help diabetics maintain and control our blood sugar levels.” Thanks to the concerted efforts of U.S.-based JDRF chapters and international affiliates, the organization stands as the worldwide leader in funding research to cure diabetes Outreach at the Suncoast Chapter of JDRF is a comprehensive effort. In addition to

42

|

REAL Magazine

|

reaching out to families directly impacted by the disease, the organization also seeks to educate the public at large of the issues and challenges involved with a type 1 diabetes diagnosis. “Something as simple as a common cold can have a tremendous impact on a child with diabetes,” explains Jeannie Kawcak, the chapter’s executive director. “It helps when people understand just how critical the need for research is.”

Indeed, statistics reveal that the rate of type 1 diabetes is staggering. According to JDRF, more than 15,000 children are diagnosed with the disease in the United States alone, or approximately 40 kids each day. At these rates, chances are that every American will know a child or a family member who copes with this lifelong disease. This is why JDRF and its supporters are so dedicated to finding a cure. And their efforts are impressive.

In their first year alone the Suncoast chapter of JDRF raised around $45,000 through their inaugural Walk to Cure Diabetes event. “It was amazing,” recalls Kathy. “We had been advised to wait until we had a corporate sponsor, but the community came together to support us in an incredible way.” While the group’s Walk to Cure Diabetes remains their largest fundraising event in Sarasota, JDRF keeps a yearlong calendar ripe with fundraisers and seminars with the 2010 Walk to Cure Diabetes raising an amazing $400,000 chapter-wide, In addition, to the Walk to Cure Diabetes, the Suncoast Chapter hosts the Hope Gala in Naples every February. “With ninety five cents of every dollar going to research and program funding, there’s a substantial return on the investment individuals make towards finding a cure,” notes Kathy.

The Suncoast Chapter of the JDRF offers a number of programs designed to assist families living with type 1 diabetes, including school outreach programs to educate teachers and caregivers as well as their signature Bags of Hope, which include a snuggly teddy bear, blood glucose meter, and books and resources addressing the disease and its ramifications. They have also implemented a

www.the-real-magazine.com

mentorship program designed to offer newlydiagnosed kids and their families a one-onone connection with individuals who have experience in dealing with type 1 diabetes.

“Through peer mentors, kids and their caregivers understand that they’re not alone,” explains Jeannie. “We have discovered that these individualized programs tend to be more meaningful than support groups; they help facilitate adaptivity as kids evolve into new life stages.” She continues, “A kindergartener has different needs than a middle schooler or a college student. By pairing up with peers, children with type 1 diabetes can make smoother transitions and continue to live healthy lifestyles.”

If the face of type 1 diabetes is difficult to place, it’s because kids afflicted with the disease don’t tend to look much different than their peers. They have hopes and dreams, good days and bad days. Their families want to see them accomplish their goals, to live normal lives, to raise families. And through ongoing research, the dedicated efforts of volunteers and scientists, and the critical funding provided by local communities, their chances of reaching their dreams increase significantly. Through JDRF, the search for a cure to this devastating disease will continue.

Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Florida Suncoast Chapter 7341 Professional Parkway East Sarasota, FL 34240 (941) 907.0811 | www.jdrf.org

ATCHLEY

INTERNATIONAL REALTY

Animal Rescue Coalition

Animal Rescue Coalition's "Best in Show" Gala Saturday, February 19, 2011

Alan Atchley

Broker-Associate, GRI, TRC, e-PRO

9040 Town Center Parkway Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 Office 941-782-1202 Cell 941-720-1641 www.AtchleyRealty.com

beyondreal estate

R

Michael's on East Ballroom • 6PM - 12AM Cocktails, Dinner & Dancing, Special Circus Surprises & Silent and Live Auctions!

Don’t miss our other special event!

Dog's Night Out

Friday, January 14, 2011 Saks Fifth Avenue 6PM - 8PM

Bring your Dog for a Fun Night of Shopping!

Log onto www.arcsarasota.org or call 957-1955 ext.7 to purchase tickets.

Buying Art

Continued from page 12

mundane or “everyday”. New expression is good. Often it leads to greater and more accomplished expression.

style, and Picasso is known for his founding role in the Cubist movement.

This point is easy to illustrate especially with the contemporary art of the sixties and seventies. Lots of canvases were painted, some just all white or of another color, and lots of stripes (The Washington Color School) or splatters of paint (a la Jackson Pollock and Clifford Still).

It is easy to say, “I could have done that,” and lots of us could have. But, the artists did it first, and by doing it first, got credit for starting the trend, helping us see things in a new way.

There is endless advice on why and how to buy art. Some people believe that art gains value when it changes hands, so there is the investment angle. Others say to buy art that challenges you, buy what makes you feel good or buy from artists you admire or know.

Then there is intellectual art, which can easily fall into the avant-garde category. Intellectual art is a thoughtful and deep manifestation by the artist which some people can comprehend and others cannot. Often, it is understood by studying or knowing the artist, so one can appreciate the elements of the art and what the artist is trying to convey.

In the upper echelons of art, technique becomes more important. Old Masters are celebrated because of breakthroughs in technique or style for their era. For instance, Vermeer used light in a new way, Renoir was a leading painter in the development of the Impressionist

My advice is: buy the best art you can afford for whatever your strategy or for whatever your reasoning happens to be.

Buying art, and having art, enhances your daily life, supports the community of artists and art dealers, and opens up your world. And artists are fun and interesting people!

The next time there is an art opening on Palm Avenue or Fifth Street, take advantage of this wonderful social, intellectual, and eye-opening experience. Go and enjoy!

Visit studios, open the lines of communication with artists and dealers, and get involved. It is great fun, stimulating and who knows! Maybe you’ll come home with the next Picasso or Renoir!

The new Bank of America Doctor Loan could be the right home loan for you.

If you are a licensed, practicing doctor or resident, dentist or other eligible medical professional,1 Bank of America Home Loans®could help you make the move to your next home. With our new Doctor Loan, you can count on clear information and guidance from an expert mortgage loan officer, plus significant home financing advantages, such as2: • As little as 5% down on mortgages up to $850,000 • Employment start date up to 60 days after closing allowed1 • Student loan debt not included in total debt calculation1 • A range of fixed and adjustable-rate loans

Contact me to learn more.

Budd Moore Home Loans Manager 941.952.2888 budd.moore@bankofamerica.com http://mortgage.bankofamerica.com/williambmoore

1 2

Restrictions apply.

An applicant must have, or open prior to closing, a banking relationship with Bank of America, which can be, at a minimum, a checking or savings account.

Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. © 2010 Bank of America Corporation. ARE2P2M0 00-62-2311D 07-2010

per p esr p s pee c c tt i viev s es Developing Better Balance During Your Golf Swing

By Chad Jones

Chad Jones is the Director Of Elite Junior Golf for the Jonathan Yarwood Golf Academy located at The Concession Golf Club. He is a PGA of America certified instructor and has certifications in junior golf and golf fitness from the Titleist Performance Institute and was a 2010 US Kids Top 50 Coach. ChadJones@pga.com

W

hat is balance, and why is it important to the golf swing?

According to experts at the Titleist Performance Institute, balance is one of the key physical factors needed to produce an efficient golf swing. Balance is the ability of the human neuromuscular system to maintain proper alignment, posture, center of gravity, and coordination. Throughout the golf swing, a golfer must maintain the proper spine angle, transfer power and coordinate movements. In order to do this properly, a golfer is required to maintain balance of the body and control the arms and legs.

Below is a 5 -8 minute routine to perform 3 times per week to help develop balance like a PGA tour player! The following exercises will help build better balance in your golf swing. Perform each exercise without looking at your feet. Do not let your eyes tell your brain where you are in space. Instead, let your nerves and joints do the work. Make sure you have plenty of space and go slowly.

Torso Turns One Leg- Try 15 torso turns each direction in golf posture on each leg.

Stork Turns- Try 15 rotations on each leg, rotating the pelvis/hips while stabilizing the upper torso.

Single Leg Balance – Perform for 60 seconds on each leg. Once mastered, try it with your eyes closed.

Lateral Bounding- Do 15 jumps in each direction, bounding from 1 foot to the other with a stick.

Have Fun!

46

|

REAL Magazine

|

www.the-real-magazine.com

Sales 941.962.7515 | Main Office 941.366.9936 | CGC062281

PRST STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID MANASOTA, FL PERMIT #1450

Discover The Ritz-Carlton Members Club, Sarasota

Your door to world-class Golf, Spa, Beach, Dining and Entertaining delivered with the legendary Ritz-Carlton service … offering incomparable activities and infinite luxury.

S A R A S OTA The Members Spa Club • The Members Beach Club • The Members Golf Club

To explore further … telephone 941-309-2521 or visit www.rcmcsarasota.com