Focus Magazine of SWFL - Hot New You by Focus Magazine of SWFL

JAN/FEB 2014

FO C

us of S W F L

HOT NEW

YOU

$4.95

Joyce Giraud

Young, Beautiful & Fabulous

FOR AN OFFICIAL ROLEX JEWELER CALL 1-800-367-6539.

ROLEX PRINCE - 18 ct Yellow Gold - 45 mm x 29 mm

ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL AND DATEJUST ARE TRADEMARKS

Content Co l l i e r Sa ra so ta Charl o tte Lee

20 22 27 28 33 35 38 40 56 58 60 61 63 66 72 74 77 78 85 86 96 98

New Year's Resolutions Embracing Your Setbacks Inside Out Drop the Self Pity Juggling Family Right College Love Romance Get Focused Your Will Take Charge in Investing Smartphone Car Shopping Made Easy Absolute Performance Final Enactment At It's Best GRANDE! New Futurist Superyacht Enchanting Obsession Endless Motion Aaron Short Life, Love & Music

FO CM a g a z i n e

of S W F L

www.focusofswfl.com

Publisher: Focus Magazine of SWFL Cover Photography: Fadil Berisha Model: Joyce Giraud Dress: Sheri Hill Make up: Isabel Perez Hair: Paul Anthony Styling: Sheri Hill and Kara for Serendipity Prom Contributors:

Terri Profetto, Susan Bennett, Samantha Ramos, Lina LaSalle, Ginny Grimsley, K eri G lassman , MS, RD, M eagan Parrado , C hef Roberta, D avid Burne, I an H owes , V incent G otti , T ania M endillo , K. B uchanan , S usana S ueldo , N ick Whelan, Stephen Prendiville, M.D., Maria McCutchen, Brooke Hudis, Burt Kellerman, Moony Mann, Lina LaSalle, Dan Myricks, Gina L. Battle, Norah Edward, Thomas Concordia, Dimitrios Kambouris, Mai Yomioto, Thomas Topinka, Colleen Crawford, Zack Tanck, Deb Reynolds, Cylla von Tiedmann, Olatoun Kolawole, Cortney Yod, TJ Philpott, Sterling

68 10 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Focus Magazine of SWFL is published Bimonthly. Articles do not necessarily reflect Focus Magazine of SWFL policy. ÂŠ 2010 Focus Magazine of SWFL, All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or whole without permission is prohibited. Postmaster: Send all remittances and correspondences about subscriptions, undelivered copies and address changes to: Focus Magazine of SWFL at 105 Triple Diamond Blvd, Suite 101, Venice, FL 34275. Editorial, publishing and advertising offices. questions@focusofswfl.com

Content Col l i e r S a ra s ota Cha rl otte Lee

102 104 106 108 112 113 114 115 117 120 122 125 126 127 128 129 136 154 172 174 177 185 186 189 190 194 200 201 202

Viva Italia! Serene Design Energy-Efficient Solutions Simple Tips Lift Sagging Skin Skin Resolutions Green Market Aging in Place Mind Over Body Fight Eye Disease Ultherapy Posture Receding Gums Lost the Art of Medicine? Wyvern Hotel Men of Distinction Redesigning Your Style

Revitalization From Australia with Style Technology Your Piece of Art The Art of Brandon Gould Creating Great Events Pots Past Their Prime?

Lucini Eat Hearty & Healthy Healthier Sweets Balanced Eating Routine Last Words

132

144 110 178

118

News & Info

75 Mobile Rock Climbing 124 Dr. Prendiville - New Injectable Filler 130 Marilyn's Distinctive European Fashion 175 Spicing Up Sarasota Dining 175 Echo Vintage Books & Vinyl 176 Wellington Ward Art Sow 181 Anima Domus 15th Anniversary 184 Child's Painting Auctioned at Wine Fest

12 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Artist Gallery

182

162

Maserati of Central Florida - 525 South Lake Destiny Drive - Orlando - Florida 32810 - 407.667.4300

Simple Solutions for Your

New Year’s Resolutions!

By Sterling Mire

As practicing spiritual life coach, I am often approached by clients who seek to fulfill important goals. Through my unique Art of Manifestation program, I am able to help them attain these goals when they create their wonderful New Year. Most of my clients want to make their New Year’s resolutions stick. But how do they do it? Right now, it's an exciting time to create New Year’s resolutions. Maybe yours include engaging going out friends, eating healthier, saving money, helping others or simply taking more time out for you! It may also be a confronting time when we think about past, unfulfilled resolutions. How do we keep these new resolutions from getting off track? I've created a simple Top 10 Tips list for keeping all of your New Year's resolutions right on target! 1. Be sure that you can commit. Is your resolution something that you truly want or does it just simply look good on paper? Create resolutions that inspire you the most at this time. Don't overwhelm yourself with too many commitments. Once those resolutions have come into being, you can create more – even before the year is up. 2. Keep your focus clear. Start your day with morning visualizations. See yourself with the desired results of your New Year's resolutions. This will keep you on track and connect you with the experience of doing it. 3. Keep a daily diary. Implement your New Year's resolutions into your daily or weekly plans. Schedule your resolutions into your day and write about them at the end of the day. This keeps them present and alive for you – and will help keep you on target! 4. Tell others. Share your stories of success and inspire others. Telling others what you are up to will keep you accountable, too. So, when someone asks you how your new workout routine is going, you can easily reply by saying, "Fantastic!" 5. Be determined. Don’t let anything take you off track and don’t let anyone – including you – talk you into allowing old habits to creep back in. It's easy to return to what’s familiar to us, but while familiarity may be comfortable, it’s not fulfilling. Remember, it takes a little time for your New Year's resolutions to become the new familiar to you and what is satisfying, too! Also, if you get off track, simply admit to it and get back on the horse. It’s really that simple. 6. Take bite-sized action. Take “bite-sized action.” Commit yourself to your New Year’s resolutions for just one month if you feel overwhelmed with big-picture commitments. After one month, determine whether you’d like to take on another month of engaging in your resolutions. Repeat this action. It takes about 21 days for change to occur, that is, for something to become more habitual and second nature. By the time a month is over, chances are, you’ve acclimated to your new lifestyle. Slipping back into old ways may prove harder than you think! Consistency is the key. If we can be consistent for a period of time, the rest is easy. 20 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

7. Use the buddy system. Your friend is another way to stay on the path! When someone else shares the same goals, it can keep us in check. Fulfilling on your goal is twice as sweet with someone else. There are lots of resolutions that could involve a buddy, such as: exercising, eating healthy, quitting bad habits and fun hobbies. Even if your New Year’s resolutions don’t involve others, you can still share your goals, which include that added support you need. 8. Visual reminders. Put images of what you desire everywhere on the refrigerator, in the bathroom, on your desk, on your screensaver, in your wallet, in your car. Wherever you spend time, put a visual reminder of what you want to come to fruition. 9. Reward yourself. At least once a week, do something extra special for yourself as a reward for keeping to your goals. Maybe it's an inexpensive massage, buying a beautiful piece of clothing, an adventurous horseback ride or maybe simply taking a scenic drive all on your own! 10. Acknowledge yourself. Give yourself credit for taking on new habits and choosing to make lifestyle changes. That alone is the first step towards success. Remind yourself that you are worth it! Keep moving in the right direction and you will find yourself fulfilling on those "hard to keep" New Year's Resolutions in no time! Creating and fulfilling your New Year's resolutions doesn't have to be an intimidating process. It takes just some practice and a little effort. Applying these tips can make the difference between making your New Year’s resolutions stick or breaking them. Before your new year is up, these resolutions will seem like second nature and you will not only reap the benefits of your New Year's resolutions, but you will say "hello" to a new you and a brand new way of life! Sterling has gathered over 20 years of extraordinary experience in the fields of life coaching, psychology and astrology. She formally studied psychology in Dallas, and between 1998-2003, studied advanced personal development at the famed Landmark Education Center in Los Angeles. In 1998, she began her professional career as an astrologer, tarot card reader and life coach. Sterling then developed her unique Art of Manifestation © life coaching program for clients to create and experience outstanding lives. Today, she offers all of her services at Intuitive Life By Sterling, her spiritual life coaching practice in West Hollywood, California and through online, telephone and Skype appointments. Ultimately, Sterling provides caring and passionate guidance, leading clients to fulfill the amazing lives that they've always intended.

www.intuitivelifebysterling.com

Photo by Duard van der Westhuizen

Embracing Your Setbacks

By TJ Philpott

In order to achieve success it is almost always inevitable that mistakes will be made and setbacks encountered along the way! For those who may fear failure, get over it and realize these setbacks are as much a part of achieving success as the euphoric feelings you experience upon your accomplishments! There is much to be learned and benefits to be gained from your miscues that will actually help you to become successful provided you keep both your eyes and mind wide open!

Uncover Obstacles The best way to find out what you're up against is to take action, get involved and quite frankly wait till you stub your toe! Planning is great and definitely needed but generally there will always be many 'unknowns' that only come to light through trial and error! One cannot become successful at anything unless they are made aware of and address any obstacles in their path! Once a mistake is made or a setback is experienced you now have a deeper understanding of what you need to do to eventually achieve success!

Here is a look at 3 benefits you can expect from mistakes made that hopefully demonstrate why you should NOT fear failure but rather embrace it!

Uncover Challenges Many times we discover challenges we did not anticipate which could alter our passions and even our paths! Unlike the obstacles we spoke of above these challenges could prove to be insurmountable due to a lack of resources or even skills that we are unable to acquire! The sooner we are made aware of such things the better since it will help minimize the time and effort that may be invested on an unachievable goal!

In the vast majority of cases in order to achieve success it is normal to first experience setbacks due to your own mistakes! Without prior experience it is unrealistic to expect your efforts will be flawless or go unchallenged! The best approach is not to fear failure but embrace it for what it can teach you and how it actually benefits you as discussed above in becoming successful at whatever you pursue! Achieving success should always be regarded as a journey that offers many lessons provided you pay attention to what is being taught!

22 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Build Confidence Let's face it, meeting an challenge head on and defeating it helps to really boost your confidence! We're talking 'world beating' confidence that propels you forward into the unknown where you may have formally backed away from cheating you from the education, experiences and further opportunities! For those who fear failure and therefore are less incline to take risks that could pay off in new skills and greater self confidence, it is unlikely they will become successful at many things! The biggest loss of all perhaps could simply be the 'life experiences' involved in each new journey we take!

Whimsical and Grandiloquent Art Characterized by a unique style and precise designs where the combination of a matte-shine effect on gold, and meticulous craftsmanship make for exceptional jewelry pieces where gold and precious stones come to life. This collection is inspired by the embroidery, fabrics, and colors of Spain’s Golden Age. This touch of color and these brocades can be seen in pieces crafted in yellow or white gold with amethyst presented as grandiloquent and whimsical art. Jewelry with generous volumes and rich decoration where the characteristic and signature Carrera y Carrera matte-gloss effect can be appreciated. Refined and ornate pieces reflect the image-preoccupied culture that existed during this period. For Carrera y Carrera, its link to Spain is essential as a source of inspiration for the development of its collections. The entire creative and development process of each jewelry piece takes place wholly in the Madrid workshop. Each step in the creation of a piece is influenced by the Spanish character that has become one of the fundamental pillars in the evolution of the company’s excellent trajectory throughout its history. Carrera y Carrera endures thanks to a standard of incalculable value – the savoir faire of the nearly 60 jewelers who work in its Madrid workshop, where tradition and the expertise of master goldsmiths are joined together. It is here that each jewelry piece is crafted entirely by hand, giving each one a flawless grandeur.

Inside

out

By Cortney Yod

We are surrounded by propaganda associated with outer beauty, but are we forgetting about inner beauty? Above all, your inner beauty is very important and you should focus on it, focusing on beauty on the outside is just an added benefit. As time and age can take a toll on your outer beauty, they can never take away your inner beauty. What follows are some ideas on how to develop your own inner beauty so that you can feel attractive on the inside as well as the outside. We are surrounded by beauty, particularly if we are capable of distinguishing it. If you learn to delight in the natural world and its beauty, you can begin to appreciate your inner beauty. You may have your own way of doing this, whether it's appreciating art, nature or spending time with children. Technology is another form in which people discovery beauty. If you intentionally encapsulate your life with attractive components, you will be able to have a positive mental state which will allow your most wonderful qualities to shine. It's not hard to find gorgeous items that will make you feel happy, you can appreciate simple things, such as a blooming flower or a fabulous pair of shoes. It's important to think on the bright side otherwise you could obstruct your inner beauty. You will block your inner beauty if you allow imminent feelings, such as misery, annoyance or even hatred to take over your life, thus resulting in the limitation of your true potential. Above all, you have the ultimate control and you should learn to recognize the areas in your life that can be improved upon. A therapist can occasionally be the greatest assistance to you however in a lot of instances you can just talk about your issues with a close confidant. It doesn't take much for negative feelings to take over your life, but it is important to scrutinize these and not allow them to consume your life. Your inner beauty can shine through when you are contented with your life, but not so much when you permit your bad mood to engulf your life. We live in a world now that is "on the go" and if you get caught up in all the action you may lose track of your path to inner beauty. Within this world, regardless if you are an insider or the outsider, there is no way to elude opposition. Even with our extra time, we battle with others - whether it is for a sporting event or maybe with our pets, for example a dog or horse show. There's nothing wrong with this, and competition can help bring out the best in us, but if we do this in a spirit of fair play and good sportsmanship, it can make a big difference. Winning at something can feel like a drug-free high, however if you had to bamboozle people in order to make it that far, will you really feel like a winner in the end? Being gracious, honest and fair, even when competing, is an important part of inner beauty. When you develop your inner beauty, you become attractive in ways that go far beyond your outward appearance and people will enjoy being around you without necessarily knowing why. There are a number of ways to cultivate your inner beauty and we have only shared a few of those in this article. If you don't remember anything else, do remember that natural beauty comes from within and your outward appearance is simply an expression of this. FOCUS of SWFL 2014 27

Photo by Radu Tania

Drop the Self Pity

By Olatoun Kolawole

Many live their life daily thinking of the reasons why they shouldn’t forgive, thinking about the mum or dad that left years ago and all sort of broken bonds/relationships…. It’s important to forgive and move forward don’t let your past or background deprive you of your future… Ask yourself: 1. WHAT ARE YOU LIVING FOR? Many get through life setting goals and dreams that will only end in depression…. Know the difference between what you NEED and what you WANT….stop chasing what doesn’t matter, your happiness should be number one on your priority list. Your capabilities are very important when you are thinking about your dreams .Resolve to make an impact. Dedicate your life to a cause…When you give your life to something you immediately dedicate yourself to the passion. 2. WHAT ARE YOU DOING RIGHT NOW? Don’t go through life watching the days go by; have a plan, face challenges, take risk. The difference between extraordinarily wealthy people and those struggling is a matter of knowledge. Find out from the informed all the avenues through which you can make wealth. Don’t ever attach your happiness to a particular goal or achievement, love yourself, pamper yourself ,eat healthy and rest well .Happiness is a choice. You have full control over your life and the decisions that you make. 3. WHAT WOULD YOU REGRET NOT DOING? Many people have regrets when they realize they are going to die real soon. It is often too late for many people to go back and change the things they missed out on. They would have lived their lives completely differently if they had the chance. If a doctor told you that you hadn’t any time left but a few weeks, then what would your regrets be? Would you want to do before your time was up? Now that you have answered these questions you should have a good idea of some of the things that will make you happy and fulfill your dreams. You need to have a clear idea of the things you have always dreamed to do. Finally your passion is your purpose , Everyone has a passion and they can live a full life when they know exactly what their passion is and what they need to do. Think about this…. 28 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Yoga For Everyone

By Zack Tanck

Photography by Cylla von Tiedmann

oga is big business, one that is largely considered to be a luxury. To Passport to Prana founder YuMee Chung, this didn’t seem right. Chung, a Canadian lawyer who entered the legal profession with the hope of bringing about social change, took her first yoga class on the recommendation of a friend because she was experiencing back pain and numbness in her arms from too many hours in front of the computer. She had been running from doctor to doctor and from body worker to body worker looking for a way to alleviate the work-induced discomfort. Lasting physical relief did not come until she found yoga. After working for a few years as a lawyer and taking yoga classes, Chung realized that her yoga teachers were doing a better job of touching people and changing lives than she was as a paper pusher. So, she decided to open a yoga studio. She juggled that career and law practice until she became too busy to do both. In the end, yoga was the obvious choice. The transition from lawyer to yogi was a huge personal and professional decision. Chung had to face losing the security of a six-figure income and a robust benefits package in lieu of an uncertain future. However, she realized that it was more important to live a healthier, more engaged life in the present moment. After making the jump to yoga instructor, Chung came to the realization that there had to be a way to remove the barriers to entry and make yoga more accessible to the average North American while bringing the yoga community together around a common project. In 2005, she started Passport to Prana as an experimental, collective marketing idea designed to introduce people to the practices of yoga by acquainting them with the yoga studios and teachers in their cities. Knowing that many yoga studios offer a discounted or free first class, and that all yoga studios are keen to meet new students, Chung simply formalized the idea and created structure around the idea of a yoga crawl. Her business concept was (and still is) simple: sell a multi-studio yoga pass that offers customers one free class at each of the participating studios in a given market at a too good to be true price. In the United States, each card costs a maximum of $30 per city, making the cost of each class about a $1 depending on the region, versus the average big-city yoga class, which can cost upwards of $18. The benefits are clear: consumers get a smorgasbord of studio options to try and studios get exposure to a broader customer base than they could develop on their own. Says Chung, “Passport to Prana gives everyone, including absolute beginners, a great way to try out the yoga studios where they live, work and play, no matter what their income level, age, or level of fitness.” In seven years, this relatively straightforward idea has grown to include multiple cities throughout Canada and America. The engine behind Passport to Prana’s growth remained Chung, joined by her business partner Rajen Gandhi, with their singular strategic vision. Approaching the entire venture from a ‘collaborative, not competitive’ perspective, Chung and Gandhi continue to encourage growth through ethical practices and a win-win mentality. Most of the profits from the sale of the actual passports get funneled back into the studios offering the free classes, and despite the popularity of the program, passport prices have remained reasonable. An online yoga portal is also part of their program. Anyone who purchases a Passport to Prana will receive an electronic card that is processed by the yoga studio just before class. The yogi can log onto their Passport to Prana profile to track everything from class attendance to passport information in real time. Studio listings, maps, contact information, up-to-date class schedules, special discounts, and fun contests are also available, making it a must-stop spot for any yoga lover in their city.

www.passporttoprana.com

30 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Juggling Family

Life and Business

By Ginny Grimsley

Larry Katzen forged an ambitious career as a leader at one of the world’s most prestigious accounting firms. But he has been equally ambitious with his family life; he’s the father of quadruplets—three sons and a daughter. And he felt it was important to serve his community, sitting on more than 10 boards of directors. “It was an incredible challenge and I don’t regret one minute of it!” says Katzen, author of “And You Thought Accountants Were Boring - My Life Inside Arthur Andersen,” (Larryrkatzen.com), a look at working in one of the world’s most historically important accounting firms while nurturing bonds with his wife and children. “The quadruplets were born April 22, 1974, before multiple births became fairly common, so we were front-page news and featured on all the national TV news shows,” Katzen says. “But that also tells you there weren’t many other parents who could give us advice, and certainly no internet forums to turn to!” At the time, Katzen was also working his way up the ladder and taking on new challenges at Arthur Andersen, one of the “Big 8” accounting firms. How did he and his wife, Susan, manage?

Susan reached out to moms of multiples to develop her own support system, and the couple hired a recent high school graduate to help care for their rambunctious brood a couple days a week. “There’s no glory in not asking for support and help,” Katzen says. • Combine business and family. Katzen traveled frequently for his job and, when his children were 9 years old, a business friend suggested he bring them along, one at a time, on his trips. “The first was my daughter, Laurie. We flew to New York on a Friday and spent the weekend shopping, dining, taking in a show. For the first time ever, we were alone together without any disruptions,” Katzen says. “Neither of us ever forgot that weekend.” • Consider buying a small vacation home. Traveling with four young children was extremely difficult, especially nights in motels, where the family would split up into two rooms – one parent and two children in each.

“It comes down to sticking to some basic principles: doing the right thing, for one, and listening to your heart,” Katzen says.

“When we discovered Sun Valley, Idaho, the children were 6. On our first trip there, they quickly learned to ski, and they clearly loved the snow – we could hardly get them to come inside,” Katzen says.

He draws on his 35-year career and family life to offer these tips for working parents with multiple children:

The family so enjoyed the vacation, they looked into the prices of condos.

• Cultivate support systems! One of the wonderful things about Arthur Andersen was the people who worked there, including his bosses, Katzen says. “They knew the physical and financial struggles Susan and I faced caring for four babies and, because I never gave less than my all at work, they did what they could to work around my situation,” he says. That included a heftier-than-usual annual pay raise that Katzen learned only years later was approved because the firm’s partners knew he would need the extra money.

“We found a furnished condo at a very affordable price and for the next 13 years, we enjoyed summers and winters in Sun Valley,” Katzen says. “It may sound like a big investment, but when you consider the costs of motels and dining out for a family of six, it works out well – and it’s a lot more comfortable.” After graduating from Drake University in 1967, Larry Katzen started working at Arthur Andersen and quickly rose through the ranks to become the Great Plains Regional Managing Partner. An honorable, hard-working man who devoted his life to Arthur Andersen, Larry was there from the company’s meteoric rise to its unjust demise. He stayed with the firm for 35 years, serving clients globally until 2002. In his new memoir, And You Thought Accountants Were Boring - My Life Inside Arthur Andersen, Katzen details the political fodder in the government’s prosecution of Enron; how the company was unjustly dismantled for its supposed connections to the corruption; its vindication and why it came too late, and the devastating impact it had on 85,000 employees.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 33

Pick the

Right College

Family Features

Selecting the right college means not only choosing where you’ll live for the next four years, but finding the best fit for your personality, interests and your family’s financial situation. It’s often one of the biggest decisions many teens have ever faced. If you’re considering several colleges, the best way to compare them is to make a list of the things that are most important to you and see how each school stacks up. You might include proximity to home, athletics or arts programs, campus size, etc. When listing pros and cons, consider cost, academics, social life and the impact it will have on your future career.

For example, Foresters™, an international life insurance provider committed to family well-being, offers the Foresters Competitive Scholarship Program2, which awards up to 250 tuition scholarships for higher learning worth up to $8,000 each in the US and Canada for eligible members and their spouses, children and grandchildren. Rank your priorities Cost may be one of the biggest factors when choosing the right college, but there are many things to consider while researching each prospective school. Though some people judge a school solely on published college rankings, it may be more important to find the rank of specific departments within those schools. A top medical school or culinary program could be part of a school that doesn’t have a high overall ranking. Assessing what you value most in an educational program will help put you on the path to success.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Narrow down top choices Plan a few campus visits to get a feel for campus size, dorm life, the school’s resources and how helpful school staff will be. Finally, make sure any scholarship you might be awarded can be used at the schools you have on your short list. For example, Foresters Competitive Scholarship can be used for tuition at any vocational or trade school, college or university offering a full-time academic program of two years or more.

Consider costs According to the most recent Annual Survey of Colleges by the College Board, students attending a four-year college in their own state will spend an average of $17,860 on tuition, fees and room and board during the 2012-2013 academic year. The average price tag jumps to $39,518 per year for a private four-year college1. To cover the costs, parents and students may need to consider student loans, financial aid and scholarships. You can get a list of available scholarships from your high school guidance counselor as well as the colleges and universities you want to attend. It’s important to start your scholarship search early and look at all possible sources.

If you find yourself overwhelmed by all of the choices, just make the best decision you can with the information you have. Many students change majors during their college days. What may be the best fit academically now can change as quickly as what you want to be when you graduate.

Foresters™ is the trade name and a trademark of The Independent Order of Foresters, a fraternal benefit society, 789 Don Mills Road, Toronto, Canada M3C 1T9; its subsidiaries are licensed to use this mark. 1College Board Advocacy and Policy Center: Trends in Higher Education, 2012-2013 http://trends.collegeboard.org/college-pricing/figures-tables/average-published-undergraduate-charges-sector-2012-13 2This program is administered by International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. Foresters member benefits are non-contractual, subject to eligibility requirements and limitations and may be changed or cancelled without notice. For details, visit foresters.com.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 35

Read Us Everywhere Available on all digital devices.

stylish, gushing and she wants to make as vivacious a statement as her younger counterpart. She may even acquiesce and wear white, ivory or a surprisingly bold color. “The bride wears what she wants too,” said Judie McGlinchey, a professional bridal consultant/stylist. Trending now in bridal fashion is bold hues, like hot pink or royal blue shoes just for an eye-popping punch of color underneath the gown. Some brides are putting a coordinating color sash on the gown or a little feathery flower to incorporate more color for fun. Styles have changed as women have evolved through decades of bridal fashion design. Designers in the industry are appreciative of a mature woman, particularly those poised with the goal to make her fashion choices coincide with a picture-perfect wedding. Judie says, “True, they’re more assertive and know what they want whether they’re having a beach or destination wedding, or marrying on a cruise – they just know.”

OVE L in the air for woman over 40

by Gina L. Battle

Traditionally a blushing bride is on the underside of 26 years old. Couples have been planning their nuptials for months, perhaps up to a year or more. She has chosen a romantic floral bouquet; they’ve sampled the perfect tiered cake; invited fabulous guests; lamented over heavenly gowns, this all prior to the day they walk down the aisle to recite their vows. The day has finally arrived! For any bride, no matter what her age, the wedding day is a day like no other. It is a magical day enveloped with love, happiness; hope for the future, and dreams fulfilled. The ideal of the typical age of a bride is no longer the old standard -- young. For various reasons, many women are seeking wedded bliss at a nontraditional time in their life. It is likely getting married or remarried may occur beyond age 40. For the sake of this article, let’s assume they are experienced, independent and self-assured individuals. Whether she’s a first-time bride or has taken multiple vows, the case is no longer that the mature bride is hiding in unflattering, unassuming fashion on her wedding day. This bride is beautiful, 38 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

The excitement doesn’t stop at a certain age group. According to Charlotte Bridal Boutique owners, Lynn and Ken Adkins, the eldest bride they have consulted was a beautiful, glowing, spry woman in her 80’s. Although there may be a significant age difference, a bride is a bride… and a beautiful bride shouldn’t have boundaries because of her age. She looks forward to her wedding day like she did as a little girl. Judie gives the same advice to younger and mature brides alike. It goes without saying, any bride can be influenced by family and friends, because their opinion means so much to her, and she might give way to the pressure in spite of her true feelings. However, as a result of the assertiveness she possesses, the bride may revisit the shop and choose the original dress, ending up with what she actually wants.

nother great piece of advice given to help deter this from happening is simple. “Don’t bring too many people with you to try on dresses. The more people you have, the more opinions you’ll have to deal with and the more decisions you will have to make. You can be guided by your family and friends, but it’s between you and the groom, it’s your day whether it’s the first wedding or another.” Who can argue with that; wasn’t figuring out the seating chart enough drama? Being an older bride does have an essential worthwhile advantage. The 40+ bride most likely leaves behind any illusions about the day after the wedding. Her focus is not only on the day, but she and the groom are more apt to put effort into ‘From this day forward… till death do us part.’

make a real connection Call Livelinks. The hottest place to meet the coolest people.

Try it Free!

239.580.0042

Ahora en Espa単ol 18+

Romance Ultimate Gift of

Tiffany heart-shaped solitaire diamond ring in platinum.

Tiffany Enchant™ heart earrings in Rubedo™ metal Tiffany Enchant Keys (clockwise from top): primrose key pendant of diamonds in platinum and 18 karat rose gold; quatra heart pendant with pink and white diamonds in platinum and 18 karat rose gold; primrose key pendant of diamonds in platinum; scallop key pendant with yellow and white diamonds in platinum and 18 karat gold. Chain sold separately.

Tiffany Enchant™ pendant in Rubedo™ metal

The Tiffany Enchant™ collection also includes a scroll pendant in Rubedo® metal. With its radiant glow, the metal recalls the opulence of formal gardens and reflects the poetic spirit that flourishes in such beautiful settings.

The jeweler for life’s most important moments, creates the perfect Valentines of legendary style, handcrafted with over 175 years of design excellence.

Iconic Tiffany Keys are designed in motifs from the Tiffany Enchant™ jewelry collection, with white, pink and yellow diamonds in platinum and 18k yellow and rose gold. Among them are the primrose key pendant, quatra heart pendant and scallop key pendant. Each of these sparkling keys sends a message that life is an inspired journey filled with brilliant possibilities.

Tiffany designers shape a wide bangle featuring a 74.27-carat oval morganite, named after the financier and Tiffany patron J.P. Morgan. A gem of such size, quality and saturated color is a rare occurrence and reflects Tiffany’s heritage of acquiring the finest stones. The dazzling masterpiece is lined with 18K rose gold that shimmers through an overlay of diamonds and platinum in an intricate leaf motif. The heart is the universal symbol of love. Tiffany defines it in the most elegant ways, such as heart-shaped earrings from the Tiffany Enchant™ collection inspired by fanciful gates that surround sumptuous gardens and grand estates. The earrings are created with luminous and rosy Rubedo® metal, Tiffany’s latest innovation in a legacy that set the American standard for sterling silver in 1851 and platinum in 1926. 40 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Tiffany bangle with an oval morganite set in diamonds and platinum, from the 2013 Blue Book Collection.

www.tiffany.com

Renowned as the premier jeweler of diamonds and true love, Tiffany creates an engagement ring with a heart-shaped diamond of impeccable beauty and style. The exquisite stone is cut and mounted in platinum by masters of the jeweler’s art. Each brilliant Tiffany Valentine is presented in the Tiffany Blue Box®, the ultimate symbol of style and luxury that makes hearts beat faster the world over.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 41

Amy Adams in Paloma Picasso速 Olive Leaf earrings of quartz and diamonds - Photo by Lester Cohen

Men Women What

Look for in

All men are different and what one man finds attractive isn’t necessarily going to be the same as the man next to him finds attractive. Plus, depending on what that man is looking for at the time, he will be attracted to different things. For example if he is just looking for a no strings attached fun romp then he is more likely to be looking at body shape and looks, but if he is looking for someone to have a serious relationship with he will be looking for personality, honesty and all of the other character traits that make a relationship work. There are some qualities that all men find attractive no matter what kind of relationship they are after.

By Colleen Crawford

Confidence Men like women to have a certain amount of confidence; they enjoy catching the eye of a woman when she walks into the room, and if she can maintain eye contact with him all the better. It shows that she is confident in who she is, how she looks and has a self confidence that will make her easy to be around than the more shy and retiring types. Men like a woman that can stand on her own two feet for the majority of the time, but will still turn to her man for support when she needs it. They do not want to be with someone who is unable to make decisions and is constantly relying on them to guide them and support them. Make Him Laugh A good sense of humor can go a long way towards a happy relationship. Let’s face it, who would want to be stuck in a joyless relationship with someone who was always miserable. Men like a woman who can laugh at their jokes, see the funny side of life and generally have a good time without having to be always serious about everything. Along with a good sense of humor there is generally a positive outlook towards life, which is what guys want, they probably have enough negative influences in their lives without having a girlfriend that has had a sense of humor bypass. Pretty as a Picture There is absolutely no denying that men are attracted to a pretty face and a nice figure, we’re talking the basis of attraction here. Men are also attracted to women that have an air of femininity about them, the more feminine a women the more masculine she makes her man feel. They also like a woman with nice hair, it may sound a little basic but it’s true, a woman’s hair can add to or detract from her femininity. A well groomed woman with a pretty face and shiny hair is more likely to attract a man that a woman who cares little about her appearance or her personal hygiene. Independence Independence can of course be related to confidence, but the kind of independence that we are talking about here is the independence that allows her to take care of herself and stand on her own two feet. A woman who is comfortable in her own space and can manage on her own is far more attractive to a man than a woman who needs help with everything, men do not like a woman who appears clingy and needy. As much as a man likes the feeling of having a woman to care for and look after, he also likes his own space and time to himself, an independent woman can give him this. 42 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Empathy and Understanding Men want a woman to listen to them, not someone who is far too engrossed in their own lives, or constantly moaning about their own life to spare him some time. A man will be more attracted to a woman that can empathize with him and show him the understanding that he needs, than someone who moans and nags who offers little in the way of support or appreciation. Honesty and Loyalty Everyone man or woman wants to be in the kind of relationship where the emphasis is on honesty. No one likes the thought that they are being lied to, and a man just like a woman, appreciates a loyal and honest partner. He is looking for someone that will be faithful to him, not be flirting with his friends the minute that his back is turned, and someone that will remain by his side through the ups and downs of life. Relaxed and Easy Going Men do not like relationships that are hard work, women who are more concerned about their appearance and what other people think of them is not generally someone that he can have an enjoyable relationship with. Men like the kind of woman who doesn’t mind if she smudges her makeup, or her hair gets a little tousled. While personal care and appearance is important to him, he needs to know that she can relax and let her hair down and be laid back. This is especially important if they are looking for a long term relationship, as when it comes to commitment men are more attracted to the ‘girl next door’ personality than that of a glamour model. Caring and Supportive Men like to feel that they are being cared for, while they enjoy having the status of man of the house or breadwinner, they like those little tokens of affection, small gestures that show them that they are being loved and cared for. Even something mundane as having his shirt ironed for him, or finding his sandwiches made for him before he goes to work can mean as much as a grand romantic gesture. They like to know that their girl is paying attention to them and taking care of the little things that mean a lot, a woman that does everything for a man can leave him feeling suffocated and overwhelmed, but get the balance right and you have a happy relationship. Men also like to know that they are being supported in their choices, whether it’s a career decision or a life decision they need to feel that you are by their side, able to offer advice when required and listening to his thoughts and reasoning objectively, and supporting him in his choices. 44 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

1. Humor Virtually there is no man who doesn't find it attractive to see a woman with a good sense of humor. After the physical appearance, it is often one of the first things men will notice and appreciate. It is great to be a professional woman, but men need a little sense of humor to spice things up. Learn to laugh honestly and take things with joy to make yourself more attractive to men. Life is beautiful, enjoy it, be happy and allow yourself to reflect your pleasure in public. 2. Intelligence A clever woman is an attractive woman, at least for most men, as not all men are attracted to "a pretty dumb doll". Many women only speak about the latest hairstyle or the latest Glee episode, it could be a little dull to many men. Many women only prioritize on their sexual appeal and pay little attention to their brain. In contrast, many men love to engage in intelligent and challenging conversations with women. 3. Flexibility Maybe some man is attracted to a woman who has enough flexibility to do somersaults in the air, but they are more attracted a woman who has flexible ideas, comments and suggestions, without being too stubborn and arrogant. Men tend to have stable relationship with a woman who can adapt to the changing situations without breaking their own principles. 4. Generosity Many men rated generosity and altruism as the characteristics of an attractive woman. It shouldn't be surprising, because a generous and selfless woman is clearly capable of looking beyond the present moment and see the needs of others. 5. Good self-esteem Men attracted to women who seem to be comfortable with themselves. In general, men prefer women who don't feel like a garbage and behave as if they are worthless and simply lack confidence in themselves. To find self-esteem, you should trust yourself, you're a woman and therefore you need to do what it takes to be attractive to a man.

6. Dynamic Impulsiveness, energy, drive and passion in a woman really attract most men. Usually, it is usually a good indicator of positive self-esteem, as the woman has the energy to deal with new challenges. If you set your eyes on something, fight for it and struggle to achieve it, this would not only make you a more successful person but also make you more attractive. 7. Unique Many women with good physical appearance look bland, they just behave and talk the same. Just be yourself, but add something in your life that can convince men that you're not just an ordinary woman. 8. Spontaneous Many men do things without a plan or do things not according to the plan. Occasionally allow yourself a bit of creativity, relax and release all, spontaneity inside you and give him a good surprise. Things that are done spontaneously have an enormous capacity to be really romantic, so don't hesitate to let yourself loose once in a while. 9. Motherly instinct The motherly instinct is not necessarily only for raising children, there are qualities within it that can make any woman more attractive to men. Even a young woman should be able to care, comfort, cuddle, help and support her lover. Men like to be taken care of, for example, if he catches a cold, let him lie on the sofa, put a blanket over him, give him light kisses and tell him to rest while you are preparing a hot, delicious soup. You'll be highly appreciated. 10. Tenderness Tenderness is a quality that is almost indispensable to the eyes of almost any man. This doesn't mean you have to be soft and tender all the time, but at least you should know when he needs a woman who can support him. Tenderness is a feminine quality that men love just like how women like sensitive men, you have heart and feelings, use them to win his heart.

Photography by Frank Atura

The Sarasota Ballet to Host the

2014 Sir Frederick Ashton Festival

The Sarasota Ballet formally announced today that they will host a four-day festival, April 30 through May 3, which will honor the life and works of the British choreographer, Sir Frederick Ashton. With events located throughout Sarasota, Florida, the 2014 Sir Frederick Ashton Festival will feature 10 of the renowned choreographer’s ballets, as well as several films and lectures that highlight Ashton’s contributions to modern-day dance. As a Company known for presenting more Ashton ballets than any other American ballet company – 10 since 2007 when Director Iain Webb was appointed as Executive Director at The Sarasota Ballet – the Festival is very much Webb’s vision. “Having worked so closely with Ashton during my time at The Royal Ballet, I feel it’s my duty to help preserve his great works,” said Webb. The Festival’s ballets will be performed within four programs hosted at The Sarasota Opera House. These ballets include Ashton’s Birthday Offering, Illuminations, Façade, Les Rendezvous, Symphonic Variations, Valses Nobles et Sentimentales, Monotones I & II and Sinfonietta. The closing gala performance on May 3, will include additional divertissements from Ashton’s repertoire as well as Les Patineurs, which received rave reviews last year when the Company performed it in Ballet Across America III at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C.

46 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

In addition to the evening ballet performances, every afternoon will feature a film about Ashton and his works and a lecture/discussion panel, hosted at the Historic Asolo Theatre. The lectures will feature ballet leaders and experts such as Antoinette Sibley, Anthony Dowell, David Vaughan, Margaret Barbieri, Wendy Ellis Somes and Alastair Macaulay. “This festival will bring together rare and beautiful ballets, showcasing the works of one of the best choreographers to have ever lived,” said Webb. “It’s going to be a historic event.” Festival subscriptions are available now. Single tickets will be available on January 6.

Since 1990 The Sarasota Ballet, the Gulf Coast of Florida’s only professional ballet company, has been enriching lives, captivating emotions and strengthening the community through the art of dance. Under the leadership of Director Iain Webb, the Company’s expanded repertoire includes works by world-renowned choreographers such as Sir Frederick Ashton, Dame Ninette de Valois, Twyla Tharp, Antony Tudor, Sir Kenneth MacMillan, John Cranko, Hans van Manen, Andre Prokovsky, Dominic Walsh, Christopher Wheeldon and Matthew Bourne. Receiving national and international recognition for their diverse repertoire of rarely performed ballets, The Sarasota Ballet was recently noted by Sarah Kaufman, a dance critic for The Washington Post to be “…the jewel of this year’s ‘Ballet Across America,’” a 2013 showcase of the best ballet companies from across the nation at the Kennedy Center.

The 2014 Sir Frederick Ashton Festival Schedule Wednesday, April 30, 2014 • Lecture, Historic Asolo Theatre, 12:00 p.m. • Film, Historic Asolo Theatre, 3:00 p.m. • Program 1 – Sarasota Opera House, 8:00 p.m. o Birthday Offering, Illuminations, Façade Thursday, May 1, 2014 • Lecture, Historic Asolo Theatre, 12:00 p.m. • Film, Historic Asolo Theatre, 3:00 p.m. • Program 2 – Sarasota Opera House, 8:00 p.m. o Les Rendezvous, Symphonic Variations, Façade Friday, May 2, 2014 • Lecture, Historic Asolo Theatre, 12:00 p.m. • Film, Historic Asolo Theatre, 3:00 p.m. • Program 3 – Sarasota Opera House, 8:00 p.m. o Valses Nobles et Sentimentales, Monotones I & II, Sinfonietta

The 2014 Ashton Festival is being staged by The Sarasota Ballet to honor the life and works of the Royal Ballet’s founding choreographer, Sir Frederick Ashton (1909-1988). As one of ballet’s most notable choreographers, Ashton has been a leading influence for The Sarasota Ballet’s repertoire since 2007, with the Company presenting more Ashton ballets each season than any other American Company. A dance and theatre critic for the New York Times, Alastair Macaulay, noted “...The Sarasota Ballet has suddenly become America’s foremost exponent of Ashton ballets.” Held in Sarasota, Florida, the four day celebration spans from April 30th to May 3rd, and will feature lectures, demonstrations and an eclectic array of 11 Ashton ballets performed by The Sarasota Ballet.

Saturday, May 3, 2014 • Lecture, Historic Asolo Theatre, 12:00 p.m. • Film, Historic Asolo Theatre, 3:00 p.m. • Program 4 – Sarasota Opera House, 6:00 p.m. o Les Patineurs and a selection of Divertissements • Festival Gala, immediately following the end of Program 4

www.sarasotaballet.org

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 47

Tiffany Suzette lock clutches (from left): navy/light camel/cotton smooth and grain leather and cotton haircalf and textured leather.

Tiffany Kensington bucket hobos in grain leather (from left): poppy/gold, camel/gold.

Tiffany Riley totes in silver metallic grain leather (small) and natural matte python print (large).

Tiffany accessories in grain leather (clockwise from top): card case in Tiffany Blue®, loop tassel key chain in light camel, loop tassel key chain in Tiffany Blue®, flip tab french continental wallet in navy, continental wallet in cotton, flip tab continental wallet in light camel.

Tiffany & Co. Spring’s Garden of Delights

This spirit of new beginnings is captured in distinctive handbags handcrafted by skilled Italian artisans working with leather in poppy, light camel, navy, cotton and Tiffany Blue. The leather is backed with gold or platinum foil, creating an interior with a beautiful color contrast. These details distinguish the supple Kensington hobo and Allee satchel that mold to the body in a soft, easy way, as well as the Dahlia, a smaller hobo, and the Lily clutch. The Tiffany Leather Collection is created with time-honored techniques. Every clasp and embellishment, every pocket and seam is smoothly integrated into the overall design. In addition, these original creations are finished with the hallmarks of Tiffany’s heritage, including custom-designed hardware, Tiffany Blue leather interiors and subtle Tiffany & Co. logos. Collectively, they represent the attention to detail that makes for a fashion essential of enduring style.

TRT: Tiffany Reversible Tote in cotton/onyx smooth leather with a crossbody detachable leather strap.

Tiffany Lily clutches in grain leather (from top): navy/ gold, cotton/platinum, light camel/gold.

Tiffany Cornelia lunchbox, zip phone wallet and Sabrina frame clutch in navy glazed crocodile

Tiffany Tulip should bag in smooth and grain leather (from left): light camel/light camel, cotton/onyx

50 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

www.tiffany.com

Fashion & Style

Black is back! This Spring will be all about cool neutrals and trendy basics taking style to the next level for any office. Debuting Ann Taylor's new Spring 2014 Collection, Head Designer Lisa Axelson wanted a refresh after so much color and print the past few seasons. Perfectly combining the spring classics that every woman needs from skirts and pants to dresses and topper coats, the Spring collection plays on runway trends by adding sheer fabrics, piped lines and stripes in slate grays, creams, navy and black tones. "I like to mix different prints or textures within a color family so you can create this high-low look within your outfit. I think this love affair that we're having with blush instantly modernizes and feminizes old classics like black and navy," Creative Director Lisa Axelson says of the new Spring Collection.

www.anntaylor.com

52 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Get Focused: Women Less Likely Than Men to Focus on Financial Planning By Thomas Topinka

Additional research suggests that having financial peace of mind in retirement is becoming a more important financial goal than accumulating as much wealth as possible, and that as people age financial peace of mind becomes a greater priority.(1) This latest research validates that there is a link between one's view of their financial wellbeing and overall physical wellbeing. Women & Achieving a Balanced Life The notion of achieving a balanced life can often seem like an impossible goal for women who are juggling the competing priorities of family, career and caregiver. "The principles of achieving a balanced lifestyle are consistent with those I adopted to prepare for the Olympics," says Boglioli. "Like preparing for the Olympics, exercise routines must change and develop with input from coaches and discussions about what works. Creating your plan for financial wellbeing starts with a conversation between you and loved ones and develops over time to a written plan that can change as necessary." Boglioli offers guidance on how to manage, based on her first-hand experience in balancing each of these multiple roles: • Have a written plan: o Talk to a financial professional to establish a framework: An advisor can ask the right questions to help you understand your current situation and set achievable, realistic financial goals. • Work out for the brain: Fifty-four percent of men focus on planning for their financial health at least once a week, compared to only 42% of women, according to a Genworth survey released today that evaluates consumers' attitudes on financial wellbeing and a balanced life. Despite this, the survey found that more women than men feel financial wellbeing are important to maintaining a balanced life. "We found it interesting that those who said they need financial wellbeing to maintain a balanced life – particularly women– are less likely to spend time focusing on financial planning," said Wendy Boglioli, national Genworth spokesperson, caregiver and 1976 Olympic gold medalist. "Living well now and in retirement requires a balance between being both financially sound and physically fit. These factors are often overlooked due to busy lifestyles." 56 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

o Physical activities provide extraordinary benefits to brain function. Understanding that exercise is good for the brain as well as the body can be a motivator to participate in regular physical activity to support overall wellness. The online survey, conducted by ORC International, looked into a variety of socio-economic variables, including gender, age, income and household size. Factors other than financial health that respondents said contribute to a balanced life include family, friends, spirituality and intellectual outlets. Age Differences According to the survey, older respondents, 55 and over, were more likely to view financial wellbeing as a necessity for a balanced life,

with more than 77% saying it is needed for a balanced life:

Household Size

• Those between 18-24 are more likely (58%) to take time to focus

Respondents in larger households say that worries over their per-

on planning for their financial health at least once a week compared

sonal financial situation have an impact on their health. This com-

to those 35-44 (39%), 45-54 (47%), 55-64 (48%) and over 65 (39%).

pares to smaller households, which are more likely to feel good

• Over 66% of respondents ages 18-54 say that worries over their personal financial situation have an impact on their health, while less than 52% of respondents ages 55 and above agree.

about their ability to manage and balance physical and financial stress. • 66% of respondents with households that have three or more members say worries over their personal financial situation has an

Income Differences

impact on their health, while less than 58% of respondents with one

Financial wellbeing is equally important to all income groups, with more than 60% of respondents across income levels below $75,000 identifying financial wellbeing as needed for a balanced life.

or two household members agree. "Baby Boomers are a generation of participators, but we are also finishers," adds Boglioli. "Understanding that there is a symbiotic

• Over 70% of individuals making over $50,000 say they feel good

relationship between physical and financial fitness is important to

about their ability to manage the balance of physical and financial

achieving a balanced life."

stress, while 61% or less of individuals below $50,000 in household income agree. • Households making less than $25,000 are most likely to feel like they need help but don't know where to get it (21% of respondents). 15% or less of all other income groups feel the same way.

.net

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 57

Your Will

The Overlooked Bucket-list Item

By Ginny Grimsley

Of the trendy terms to come around in the past decade, “bucket list” remains among the most useful, says retirement planning expert Jeff Gorton. “As a neologism, I hope it endures because it reminds us of how precious our time is – and that it’s important to plan wisely,” says Gorton, a veteran Certified Public Accountant and Certified Financial Planner™, and head of Gorton Financial Group. “Unfortunately, after some have listed their items and even checked a few things off, they forget about one important item that really counts after they’ve ‘kicked the bucket’ – their will.” Only about 40 percent of adults in America have a will, which is probably due to people not wanting to be reminded of their own mortality and that life will go on without them, he says. “But what’s the alternative? If you die without one, the state decides what becomes of your property, without regard to your priorities,” says Gorton, who also advocates his clients make use of a written income plan (WIP), a living document that helps organize financial priorities. “Why not enjoy the fact that a will is an instrument of power? You get to decide who gets what.” Since so many adults don’t have a will, many don’t understand how they work. Gorton breaks down wills into four basic parts: • Executors — Most wills begin by naming an executor, the person responsible for carrying out the wishes outlined in the will. Duties include assessing the value of the estate, gathering the assets, paying inheritance tax and other debts if necessary, and distributing assets among beneficiaries. It is recommended that you name at least two executors in case your first choice is unable to fulfill the obligation. 58 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

• Guardians — A will allows you to designate a guardian for your minor children. Whomever you appoint, you will want to make sure beforehand that the individual is able and willing to assume the responsibility. For many people, this is the most important part of a will since, if you die without naming a guardian, the court will decide who takes care of your children. • Gifts — This section enables you to identify people or organizations to whom you wish to give gifts of money or specific possessions, such as family heirlooms or a car. You can also specify conditional gifts, such as a sum of money to a young daughter, but only when she reaches a certain age. • Estate — Your estate encompasses everything you own, including real property, financial investments, cash and personal possessions. Once you have identified specific gifts you would like to distribute, you can apportion the rest of your estate in equal shares among your heirs, or you can split it into percentages. For example, you may decide to give 45 percent each to two children and the remaining 10 percent to a sibling. “You’re not legally required to have a professional write a will for you, but I highly recommend you get certified help because these documents are often contested by people who are unhappy with the decisions you made,” he says. “After working a lifetime for your assets, you deserve to have them go where you want after you’re gone, and your family will be grateful to you for not leaving them with the headache of trying to sort out your estate.”

www.gortonfinancialgroup.com

“Good fortune is what happens when opportunity meets with planning.” - Thomas Edison

TAKE CHARGE IN INVESTING One of the most significant concerns I find my clients have is the possibility of outliving their savings. Women, whether single or married now, are particularly susceptible to this.

• • • • •

Longer lifespan and more likely to age independently.¹ Often earn less while working and in retirement.² Twice as likely to work part-time.² Take leaves for family caregiving.³ More likely to require long-term care themselves.³

It is a pleasure to share my insights to help heighten your awareness of the importance of planning to achieve your financial goals. Approximately 68% of my clientele are female. Nearly a decade of experience in this profession has made me knowledgeable of the unique challenges women face in planning to meet their financial objectives. Many people choose to work with a financial advisor because of the complexities of charting their financial future. If you decide that route, you should find a professional who focuses on your needs and whom you feel comfortable with. ¹ U.S. Administration on Aging, 2010 ² U.S. Department of Labor ³ National Alliance of Caregiving

ADVICE FOR WOMEN Planning for your future commences with laying a foundation by thoroughly assessing your current financial position. Then, objectives need to be established. Your objectives should be realistic, specific and measurable. What translates to a well-informed, engaged investor is one who pursues advice and asks questions. You could spend well-deserved decades in retirement. I suspect that you would like to maintain a comfortable lifestyle during those years. Many of us spend an enormous amount of time planning for a two-week vacation. Retirement planning is often an activity that many procrastinate on until that time is very near…and yet your retirement will hopefully be the longest vacation of your life. A knowledgeable financial professional’s strategies may be able to help you generate an income stream you cannot outlive. Sound planning should also incorporate various contingencies and risk mitigation. I would be delighted for the opportunity to talk with you should you have any questions. To summarize:

TAKE CHARGE NOW! John Zacira Financial Advisor RMD Financial Group Sarasota, FL (941) 929-9726

“Securities offered through Investors Capital Corporation. Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Investors Capital Advisory. 230 Broadway, Lynnfield, MA 01940, (800) 949-1422.

60 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Smartphone Picking the Perfect

Family Features

What’s your budget?

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

In your research, be sure to look at both the cost for the phone and the monthly contract. It’s also important to ask about any extra fees associated with the device, including activation or termination fees. Affordable Android smartphone plans from TracFone include talk, text and data and start as low as $7 per month. Smartphones can be expensive devices, but with a little research you should be able to find a deal for one that can help you do more, without spending more. With advancements that seemingly occur every minute, it can be difficult to keep up with the ever-changing smartphone. When looking for one to fit your lifestyle, it’s important to ask yourself a few simple questions. Doing so will ensure you choose the best phone to fit your lifestyle.

From managing emails to connecting with friends, a smartphone can do a great number of things. But all of these features can be overwhelming when you’re in the market for a new smartphone. Since a smartphone purchase often includes a binding contract that can last for years, it is important to ask yourself a few of questions before making the commitment. Whether you are a savvy, resourceful consumer, someone looking for an inexpensive way to become a first time smartphone user, or a budget-focused head of household, you need to find the right smartphone that fits your lifestyle. Here are a few tips to get you pointed in the right direction towards a satisfactory purchase:

What will you use it for?

Before you are enticed by a shiny television advertisement for the hottest new device, decide what the primary functions will be. If you want the ability to search the Internet or communicate through social media apps, a smartphone with a user friendly keyboard and an extensive data plan may be what you’re after. Consider if you will need the phone for work, play or both. Contract plans, and even some non-contract plans, force you to pay for data, minutes or texts that you may not need or want. But some providers, such as TracFone, allow you to pay only for what you use, and any unused talk, text and data carryover as long as you keep your service active.

Where will you use it?

It’s important to choose a carrier that offers reliable coverage for the areas where you will be using your phone the most. Providers, such as TracFone, offer nationwide coverage across America’s largest and most dependable networks.

www.tracfoneandroid.com FOCUS of SWFL 2014 61

Watch making is just like the cinema, it hides a precise mechanism which must then generate emotion. The world of ROGER DUBUIS, the arrival of its collections, like spaces of freedom, perfectly matches my principles. You need to take chances in life. And always push yourself.

Gerard Butler

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

Family Features

Car Shopping Made Easy The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year to purchase a new car. While driving one off the lot can be exhilarating, many consumers wonder if they bought the perfect car at the best price. For those looking to add a new automobile under their tree, there are a few factors to consider. There is a little-known way for consumers to purchase the car of their dreams – through an automotive rewards card. A recent survey found that that only 5 percent of consumers have a rewards card with automotive benefits, meaning most Americans may not even be aware of this type of credit card reward. Of course, the best way to make sure you’re getting the most for your money is by conducting a little research before ever starting the buying process. After all, car buying is fun when you know exactly what you want, how much it will cost and how you’re going to pay for it. Here are a few things to consider before you step on to a car lot. Figure out what you can afford: Buying a new car can be one of the biggest purchases most people ever make. Some experts suggest capping your car payment at no more than 20 percent of your monthly take home pay. You can keep the cost down by looking for dealer sales and other savings options, like the GM Card from Capital One. The card allows users to accumulate earnings and redeem them towards the purchase or lease of a new Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac vehicle. Consumers earn 5 percent on their first $5,000 worth of net card purchases annually and an unlimited 2 percent on all other purchases. Car buyers are offered value, simplicity and the ability to earn and use rewards with no expiration and no limits on how much they can apply toward their new GM automobile. To learn more about the new GM Card from Capital One, visit www.capitalone.com/gmcard. Narrow down your choices: Although a sporty two-seater might be the perfect choice for a single driver, families might be equally as thrilled with a brand new crossover or sedan. When looking for

a car, write down what’s important to you. Consider such things as seating capacity, gas mileage, safety and performance. Armed with this list, you’ll be able to narrow down your choice to that perfect set of new wheels. Get the best deal: Any major purchase requires keeping an eye on the bottom line. Follow the automotive section of your local newspaper or get on the Internet to find the best sales. You should also look for incentives and rebates to lower the car’s cost. Another savvy money saving idea is to cash in the rewards you’ve accumulated on your credit card. For example, the GM Card from Capital One comes with no annual fee and offers no limits and no expirations on the rewards consumers can accumulate towards the purchase or lease of a new Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac vehicle. According to Capital One’s survey, nearly 60 percent of consumers who hold an automotive reward card have unused earnings. For of those who like to let rewards build up, and are in the market for a new car, using the GM Card from Capital One is a great way to earn cash rewards and add some extra savings for your down payment. Another perk to the GM Card from Capital One is that it also comes with World Elite MasterCard benefits ranging from upscale travel enhancements, to security and protection benefits, to VIP experiences and concierge services. Explore your options: Few aspects of the car buying process are more fun than looking at all the bells and whistles. Luxurious upholstery, power locks, remote keyless entry and heated mirrors are some conveniences many new car owners wouldn’t want to live without. Others may covet DVD systems, high-tech audio equipment, satellite radio, hands-free phones or navigation systems built into the dash. Make a list of your must-haves. Before you step onto the showroom floor, it’s important to know exactly what kind of car you need, how much you want to spend and what options you consider necessities. Armed with this knowledge, you can then negotiate the best price and ride off in the car or truck of your dreams. FOCUS of SWFL 2014 63

absolute performance

By Mai Yomioto

A new era is beginning for Automobili Lamborghini and the luxury super sports car segment: with the brand new Huracán Lamborghini is not only presenting the successor to the iconic Gallardo, but is also redefining the benchmark for luxury super sports cars in this segment. With its pure and unique design, an innovative technology package, outstanding dynamics and excellent quality, the Huracán offers a super sports car experience on a whole new level. The Huracán combines absolute performance with easy-todrive road behavior and both luxurious and sport-oriented finish. With the Huracán, Lamborghini is taking a big step into the future, and enhancing the brand’s illustrious history with the next automotive legend. Starting from January 2014 the Huracán will be the protagonist of over 130 private preview events in more than 60 cities throughout the world. With a total volume of 14,022 cars produced, the Lamborghini Gallardo has been the most successful Lamborghini ever and, in its ten-year lifecycle, lifted the Lamborghini marque to a whole new level. Its successor, the new Huracán, has been developed from scratch down to the very last detail and, like the Gallardo and most other Lamborghini models, derives its name from the world of bullfighting. The fighting bull Huracán of the Spanish Conte de la Patilla breed was known for his outstanding courage and strong sense of attack. He fought in Alicante in August 1879, showing his unrelenting character and remaining defiant and invincible, thus entering into the legend of fighting bulls’ history. The new Huracán revolutionizes the design language of the Gallardo and is pure in its lines: precise technology and top level craftsmanship meet an audacious design with sharp edges, monolithic and sculptured volumes and precise surfaces. The starting point is the silhouette of the Huracán, born out of the desire of creating an automobile, whose profile is defined by only one line that merges the front with the cockpit and the rear of the car. The lateral windows come together to create a hexagonal form inserted like a glass jewel in the car’s profile.

66 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Also by night is the Huracán unmistakably a Lamborghini. Not only are the main headlamps equipped with full LED illumination, but all other light functions also feature state-of-the-art LED technology as a standard feature for the first time in the segment. The interior is dominated by an innovative cockpit. A 12.3 inch full-color TFT instrument panel delivers all car information to the driver, from rev counter to navigation maps and infotainment functions, and can be configured by the driver in different setups. Fine Nappa leather and Alcantara distinguish the interior, with several color combinations offered to ensure broad individualization options. The design of dashboard and central tunnel underline a new lightness in the interior. Superb craftsmanship guarantees the highest quality and sense of luxury throughout. Systematic lightweight design and Automobili Lamborghini’s extensive expertise in carbon fiber come together in the Huracán’s new hybrid chassis – an integrated structure of carbon and aluminum elements. With a dry weight of 3,135 lbs it enables not only the excellent power-to-weight ratio of just 5.1 lbs per horse power, but also guarantees race-car precision with outstanding stiffness. The new 5.2 liter V10 engine delivers a maximum power of 610 HP at 8,250 rpm and developing maximum torque at 6,500 rpm. In the new “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” (IDS), direct and indirect gasoline injections are smartly combined. This results in more power and torque with lower fuel consumption and emissions compared with the Gallardo V10 engine. The top speed of over 200 mph and the acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 3 seconds and to 124 mph in 9.9 seconds only partially describe the dynamic experience at the wheel of the Huracán. Also, thanks to the Stop & Start technology, the combined EU consumption figure has been further reduced to comply with EU6 emissions regulation.

The power of the V10 engine is brought to the road via the new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission “Lamborghini Doppia Frizione” (LDF) and fully electronically controlled four-wheel drive system. The different driving modes of the Huracán can be selected via a driving dynamics selector switch in the steering wheel – from traction-oriented on the road to extreme performance on the race track, with three setups of the dynamics system: STRADA, SPORT and CORSA. The different modes ensure extensive modification in road behavior of the Huracán. In particular they influence the setups of several systems, such as the gearbox and engine behavior, the sound, the four-wheel-drive system and electronic stability control.

The Huracán’s carbon-ceramic brakes are a standard feature for consistently superb braking performance. The “Lamborghini Dynamic Steering” variable steering ratio system and magnetorheologic suspension damper control are both available as options for further customization of the Huracán’s dynamic behavior. They are also calibrated via the three different dynamic set-ups. The Huracán is produced at the Automobili Lamborghini headquarters in Sant’Agata Bolognese on an entirely newly-equipped production line. Delivery to the first customers is planned for spring 2014.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 67

Prancing Passion

by Mai Yomioto

For year’s Ferrari has developed a wide range of blistering performance sports cars. All share the same Ferrari DNA in terms of performance, driving pleasure and technology, yet each one has its own strongly unique identity, in line with the company’s philosophy of “different Ferraris for different Ferraristi”. The Prancing Horse’s eagerly-anticipated limited-series LaFerrari, of which just 499 will be built, made its debut at this year’s Art Basel Miami. LaFerrari encompasses the very best from the prancing horse’s passion, technology and exclusivity. “We chose to call this model LaFerrari,” declared Ferrari’s President, Luca di Montezemolo, “because it is the maximum expression of what defines our company – excellence. Excellence in terms of technological innovation, performance, visionary styling and the sheer thrill of driving. Aimed at our collectors, this is a truly extraordinary car which encompasses advanced solutions that, in the future, will find their way onto the rest of the range, and it represents the benchmark for the entire automotive industry. LaFerrari is the finest expression of our company’s unique, unparalleled engineering and design know-how, including that acquired in Formula 1.” The LaFerrari’s body has been given a sculptural treatment heavily influenced by its clearly F1-inspired aerodynamics and a tail section that exudes uncompromising sportiness. For Ferrari the development of a limited-series special like the LaFerrari represents an opportunity to experiment with all the technological solutions that will later filter down onto the production cars. Of particular significance in this context is the introduction of the hybrid system which, making full use of the Scuderia Ferrari’s F1 KERS know-how, has resulted in a solution that exalts Ferrari’s fundamental values – performance and driving thrills. The hybrid technology used, known as HY-KERS, represents the 68 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

perfect combination of maximum performance and lower emissions. LaFerrari in fact emits just 330 g/km of CO2 but without resorting to electric-only drive which would not fit the mission of this model. The HY-KERS system is, however, designed so that in future applications a car can be driven using exclusively electric power for a few miles and, during development testing, a full-electric version of LaFerrari achieved just 220 g/km of C02 emissions on the combined cycle. Flavio Manzoni developed the LaFerrari’s styling as an exacting link between form and function; the result an extreme, innovative design which retains close links to the marque’s tradition. This is most evident in its side profile, the car has a sharp, downwardsloping nose and a very low bonnet which emphasizes its muscular wheel arches, a clear nod to the gloriously exuberant forms of late-1960s Ferrari sports prototypes.

Inside there’s a newly-designed steering wheel sporting all the major commands, and the gear-shift paddles are now longer and more ergonomic. The signature bridge on which the F1 gearbox functions are clustered has taken on a sleek, suspended wing-like shape. The whole interior, in fact, has a fiercely track-inspired, pared-back allure.

The layout of the cabin made a significant contribution in this regard. The seat is fixed and tailored to the driver while both the pedal box and steering wheel are adjustable. The driving position is similar to that of a single-seater and was designed after consultation with the Scuderia Ferrari drivers, Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa, who played an active role throughout the entire development process.

The LaFerrari is the first car in Ferrari history to be powered by the HY-KERS system. The ICE represents the pinnacle of engine development and research, with a 6262 cc V12 that punches out 800 CV and revs to a maximum of 9,250 rpm, a record for an engine of this displacement. It also features a very high 13.5:1 compression ratio and a high specific output equal to 128 CV per litre. The engine is coupled with a 120 Kw (163 CV) electric motor, giving it a combined power output of 963 CV.

The LaFerrari’s chassis features no less than four different types of carbon-fibre, all hand-laminated and autoclave-cured in the racing department using the same design and production methods as the Formula 1 car.

The LaFerrari is equipped with dynamic controls that are integrated for the first time ever on a Ferrari road car with active aerodynamics and the HY-KERS system. Thanks to Ferrari’s proprietary logic which govern all the systems, the car can achieve absolute levels of performance, aerodynamic efficiency and handling without any form of compromise in any area. A very advanced and uncompromising approach was also taken with the interior design which features an HMI inspired by F1 single-seaters.

The high torque levels available at low revs from the electric motor allowed the engineers to optimize the internal combustion engine’s performance at higher revs, thus providing a constant supply of exceptional power throughout the rev range. Total torque generated is in excess of 900 Nm. The hybrid system is composed of two electric motors developed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli – one powering the driven wheels and the second the ancillaries – and a battery pack attached to the floor of the chassis consisting of cells that are assembled in the Scuderia Ferrari department where the KERS for the F138 is also made.

Photos courtesy of Ferrari S.p.A

The electric motor is coupled with the F1 dual-clutch gearbox to the benefit of optimal weight distribution, but also to boosting energy efficiency as torque is instantly available to the wheels and, vice versa, from the wheels to the electric motor in recharging.

The LaFerrari’s architecture posed the first challenge for the Prancing Horse team at the planning stage of the design. The aim was to achieve ideal weight distribution (59% at the rear) and a compact wheelbase despite the extra bulk of the hybrid system. The result is that all of the masses are situated between the car’s two axles and as close as possible to the floor to lower its center of gravity and thereby guaranting dynamic handling and compact dimensions. 70 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

The batteries are charged in different ways: under braking (even hard braking with the ABS active) and every time the V12 produces more torque than required, such as in cornering. In the latter instance, rather than the being sent to the wheels, the excess torque is converted to energy and stored in the batteries.

One further innovative aspect of the LaFerrari is the integration of its active aerodynamics and hybrid system with the other dynamic control systems aboard. This means the car responds intelligently to driver inputs, making for a seamless blend of unprecedented performance and unparalleled driving emotions. The car’s extreme performance potential called for a different tire set-up, with 265/30 R 19 Pirelli P-Zeros on the front and 345/30 R 20s on the rear. All in all the car guarantees maximum driving thrills in every situation and performance levels are top level: 0-60 mph in less than 3 seconds and 0-110 mph in under 7 seconds. LaFerrari is thus the fastest road car in Maranello’s long history. From Ferrari’s first four-seater, four-wheel drive FF, its sublime thoroughbred like the California 30 to the blistering performance of the 458 Italia and F12berlinetta. All these models continue Ferrari’s glorious tradition of inspiration from the legendary maker with one particular goal in mind… uncompromising performance. The LaFerrari extends those characteristics. To boost efficiency, the LaFerrari sports active aerodynamic devices front (diffusers and guide vane on the underbody) and rear (diffusers and rear spoiler) which generate down force when needed without compromising the car’s overall drag coefficient. These devices deploy automatically on the basis of a number of different performance parameters which are monitored in real time by the car’s dynamic vehicle controls, thus guaranteeing the ideal configuration on the basis of the driving conditions.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 71

Final Enactment

By Mai Yomioto

In June 2013 came the market launch of the two most powerful variants: the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series with 622 hp and the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive with 740 hp. Now the grand finale: the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION brings an impressive era to an end in exclusive style. The FINAL EDITION model, built in a limited run of just 350 units globally, represents the last opportunity for customers to order a SLS AMG GT – while at the same time re-flecting the unrivalled success story and unique scope offered by the first vehicle to be completely built by Mercedes-AMG. The super sports car, with its 583 hp AMG 6.3 -liter V8 front -mid engine, offers a fascinating combination of truly exceptional design and equipment features while exclusively developed optional Cup tires enhance its dynamic performance. The SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION is celebrating its twin world premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show and the Tokyo Motor Show (both: November 20 to December 1, 2013). The market launch will begin in March 2014 and the super sports car will be available as either a Coupé or a Roadster and once 350 units have been built, production of the SLS AMG model series will come to an end. The super sports car celebrated its world premiere in its Coupé guise at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt/Main in September 2009, with the market launch taking place in the spring of 2010. The spectacular gull-wing model was followed in 2011 by the SLS AMG Roadster and the customer-sport racing model, the SLS AMG GT3. With various titles in international championships such as the ADAC GT Masters, the FIA GT3 European Championship and the FIA GT1 World Championship, as well as over 100 victories in race series on five continents, the racing version of the gullwing model has impressively demonstrated its extraordinary performance. In particular, long-distance successes in the Bathurst 12-hour race and the 24-hour races in Dubai, at the Nürburgring, in Spa-Francorchamps and in Barcelona have spectacularly confirmed the competitiveness of the racing gull-wing model. In 2013 alone, the SLS AMG GT3 2013 thus claimed the "grand slam" of classic GT3 long-distance races, with four victories in succession. In the hotly contested Blancpain Endurance Series, the SLS AMG GT3 similarly won the championship title in 2013.

that has been adopted from the SLS AMG GT3 "45th ANNIVERSARY" collector's model race car. In addition to the carbon fiber components, the unique design AMG forged wheels have a distinctly aggressive flair. To add to the visual impression when seen from behind, the struts of the rear apron are finished in high-gloss black. The new aerodynamic components which are comprised of an exposed carbon fiber hood, a carbon fiber rear spoiler and a carbon fiber front splitter all function to increase down force on both the front and the rear axles. As on the SLS AMG Coupe Black Series and the SLS AMG GT3, the carbon fiber hood of the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION features a functional central air outlet. Apart from effectively dissipating engine heat, this outlet also increases down force at the front axle and improves the Cd value. The engineers at AMG have utilized the vacuum effect to deliver the double benefit of dissipating the hot air from the engine compartment at the same time as drawing up the cool airflow from the vehicle's underbody. The optimized aerodynamic balance not only improves the car's potential on the racing circuit, but also contributes to handling safety. Opening the exposed carbon-fiber hood reveals the front mid-mounted AMG 6.3-liter V8 power unit set low down and well to the back. With an output of 583 hp at 6800 rpm and maximum torque of 479 lb-ft of torque at 4750 rpm, the high-revving eight-cylinder engine guarantees dynamic driving at its finest.

Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "As the first car to be completely developed by AMG, the SLS AMG marked the beginning of a new era for our company. And now, in the form of the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION, we are offering our customers one final and extremely attractive variant of our super sports car". The special design of the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION ensures that it stands out in visual terms: the exposed carbon fiber hood with central air outlet, the carbon fiber front splitter on the front apron, the fixed carbon fiber rear spoiler that is reminiscent of the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series and the exclusive AMG forged light-alloy wheels make it a real head-turner. Particularly in conjunction with the designo magno graphite matte paintwork 72 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

AMG forged wheels on the Final Edition are available in two color variants, along with exclusively developed “Dunlop Sport Maxx Race" Cup tires in size 265/35 R 19 (front) and 295/30 R 20 (rear) are available on request as a no-cost option.

It is not only the exterior design and the engineering of the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION that will satisfy the most discerning of tastes, but also the interiors ambience. Exclusive leather in a diamond-stitch pattern that is used to upholster the center panels of both the seats and the doors. Contrasting topstitching in silver coordinates perfectly with the black leather upholstery, the silver seat belts and the black floor mats edged in silver leather. High gloss carbon fiber trim comes as standard. A particularly exclusive detail is the "AMG FINAL EDITION - 1 of 350" badge on the carbon fiber center console. A further high-quality detail of the dashboard is the unique "3D seam": a fine strip of Alcantara® set into the leather-covered upper dashboard. This high level of attention to detail is a signature hallmark of Mercedes-AMG. Contrasting topstitching skillfully hand worked in silver adds the finishing touch to the 3D seam, underlining the craftsmanship involved. The AMG Performance steering wheel in Alcantara® with a silver 12 o'clock marking features high-gloss black metal inserts which match the high-gloss black surrounds of the air vents. The sports seats feature an embossed AMG crest in the head restraints.

The SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds, and can reach 124 mph in 11.2 seconds. The top speed is 197 mph (electronically limited). Fast-reacting, variable and emotionally exciting – the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission proves to be the perfect match for the V8 naturally aspirated engine. With four shift programs, RACE START and an automatic double-declutching function, the dual-clutch transmission mounted in a transaxle configuration on the rear axle brings with it the perfect prerequisites for top performance. The particularly dynamic shift characteristics, and the shorter reaction time when selecting gears manually, enhance the emotional experience for the driver. The AMG Adaptive Performance Suspension with variable, electronically controlled damping, includes the "Sport" and "Sport plus" modes.

Whether Coupé, Roadster, GT, Black Series, Electric Drive, the GT3 racing version, the new FINAL EDITION or – last not least – the Official F1® Safety Car in the Formula 1® World Championship: the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG has been causing a stir since 2009. The output of the models with roadgoing approval ranges from 563 hp to 740 hp. Since its world premiere in 2009 the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG has won numerous awards of international significance. Not least on the basis of its breathtaking design and acknowledged superb driving dynamics, the super sports car from Mercedes-AMG is today already deemed to be a classic of the future.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 73

at it's best By Mai Yomioto

The all-new C-Class heralds a new chapter in the Mercedes- Benz success story and sets new standards in the premium midrange class. Thanks to an intelligent lightweight design concept boasting weight savings of up to 220 lbs, excellent aerodynamics and new, economical engines, the C-Class establishes new benchmarks in its class. A host of new assistance systems offer safety of the highest standard, while a new suspension, optionally air-sprung, provides for exemplary ride and driving comfort as well as nimble and agile handling. In terms of appearance the new C-Class adopts a progressive approach with its clear yet emotional design and its highclass interior. Many other innovations and interior touches underscore the sedan's luxurious comfort and refined sportiness. In all, the perceived quality of the new C-Class feels like an "upgrade to a higher class of travel." The C-Class is the top-selling model series from Mercedes-Benz. Sales of the preceding model, which was launched in 2007, total over 2.4 million. The new C-Class offers sensuous and clear design and a host of technical innovations as well as a comprehensive scope of standard equipment and exemplary emission and fuel consumption values. The U.S. market launches with two C-Class models: C300 4MATIC with a 2.0L turbocharged direct-injection in-line fourcylinder engine with preliminary power figures of 235 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque and a C400 4MATIC with a 3.0L turbocharged direct-injection V6 at 329 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. 74 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

"Mercedes at its best - that's the new CClass, which sets new standards for the mid-range segment on many fronts," says Prof. Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "It is characterized by an emotional yet clear design which is continued in the high-quality and modern interior. Its efficient and high-performance engineering provides the basis for a high standard of driving enjoyment." Ola KĂ¤llenius, Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars, adds: "The new C-Class embodies Mercedes-Benz's claim â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The best or nothing' in uncompromising style. This is immediately apparent when encountering our new Saloon for the first time, as it creates the impression that one is sitting in a higher class of automobile. I am sure that our customers will be delighted by the high-class appeal and agility of the new C-Class." The C-Class has grown to take account of people's increasing average height. With a 3 inch increase in the wheelbase (112 inches) compared with the previous model, the vehicle is 3.7 inches longer (184 inches) and 1.6 inches wider (71 inches). The resultant additional space benefits first and foremost the rear passengers, who now travel in even greater comfort. The new C-Class also increases its trunk capacity to 17 cubic feet.

On a visual level, the new C-Class represents a bold departure from its predecessor. Its striking, dynamic design exudes sensuous clarity and arouses emotions. Nature was a source of inspiration for the new sedan's aesthetically sensuous lines and surfaces, whose harmony and dynamism create an immediate effect. The designers have created minimalist, purist forms for the C-Class which emphasizes its intelligent technology and engineering. The clearly defined surfaces deliberately display a degree of tension, lending them a muscular and sensuous character. Precise lines and sculptural surfaces create lively light and shade effects. The Mercedes-Benz designers have styled the interior on a level which is rarely encountered even in higher vehicle categories. This applies to the carefully chosen high-class materials and their pleasant touch and feel as well as the precision of the finely crafted details. The interior also embodies a new design idiom which combines sensuousness and clarity perfectly with dynamic sportiness and contributes to the quality feel of the interior. The interior design demonstrates a bold new approach by Mercedes-Benz. Here the designers combine in accomplished style the architecture of Mercedes- Benz sports cars with a totally new center console featuring flowing lines. A large one-piece center console panel performs an elegant sweep from the center air vents to the armrest. These seamless clear-cut lines create a sense of open space and convey a thrillingly purist and modern feel.

MOBILE ROCK CLIMBING! If you have been driving around town and seen a guy hauling a 25 foot portable rock climbing tower, then you have just seen Mike Clark. Mike’s passions is Mobile Rock Climbing... to name a few! Mike Clark has a story that is incomparable to none. Mike Clark started his mobile rocking climbing business in 2002 after quitting his job of ten years. After getting a bit burnt out with his schedule, Mike thought it would be great to get away for a couple of days near the Disney area in Orlando. Mike wanted to see what else was in the area other than Disney and saw rock climbing as a fun activity, so he went online and found a rock climbing gym. Just before he made his reservation, he saw a link that said, “Click here.” He said he usually is apprehensive about such links but this time he clicked on to it. In his own words Mike said, “there popped up this photo of this portable rock climbing tower over the top of the image was written ‘income possibilities’.

I had never heard nor ever saw a portable rock climbing wall before but as soon as I saw that picture with the phrase income possibilities it was like getting hit by a ton of bricks. I said I don’t care how much that thing cost, I’m going to buy that rock climbing wall.” And he did! Mike’s area of operation is from Sarasota to Marco Island. Portable Rock Climbing is available for your birthday parties, school functions, summer camp programs, grand openings and luxury resorts. Mike is a super friendly and outgoing kind of guy, as we have come to know him. You and your friends are in for one great time by having Mike at your next event.

Mike can be reached at 941-286-4993 or Website www.amobilemountain.com

As Gorden Wagener, Vice President Design Daimler AG, notes: "The new CClass showcases automotive passion by way of a contemporary design idiom. Progressive and emotional highlights underscore the ground-breaking design style of the new C-Class and demonstrate sensual clarity. The new C-Class interprets modern luxury on a new level."

The suspension on the new C-Class is a totally new development. It provides for nimble and agile handling that makes driving a great pleasure on winding roads while also offering the highest standard of ride comfort in the segment. An optimized multi-link independent rear suspension with 5-link concept ensures unsurpassed wheel location qualities and supreme straight-line stability.

Even though many driver's and passenger’s may not consciously notice NVH (noise, vibration, harshness), Mercedes-Benz has devoted painstaking attention to optimizing the noise characteristics of the interior; including the blower, power windows, seat adjustment functions and many other actuation and operating noises.

Alternatively, the new C-Class is the first vehicle in its segment that can be fitted with an air suspension (AIRMATIC) on the front and rear axles. Thanks to electronically controlled, continuous variable damping at the front and rear, it offers outstanding road roar and tire vibration characteristics even with the vehicle loaded. The driver can use the AGILITY SELECT switch to choose between the various characteristics: "Comfort", "ECO", "Sport" and "Sport+." The additional "Individual" option enables drivers to configure their vehicle according to their own wishes. AIRMATIC also features all-round self-leveling for optimum ride comfort even when the vehicle is loaded. As a result, the suspension responds more sensitively to steering movements and allows a sporty, agile driving style. Mercedes-Benz has undertaken systematic development and substantial improvements in the new C-Class. This applies in particular to the comfort, performance, efficiency and air of quality; thus contributing to a feel-good atmosphere highlighting the status of this cultivated sedan in duly self-assured style.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 75

GRANDE! Azimut Yachts introduces the Azimut Grande 95RPH: a new hull, new design, and innovative solutions for a vessel with many surprises in store. The 95RPH is part of the Grande collection, the line of 95’-120' luxury yachts from the Italian shipyard. The Grande 95 RPH is coming out in spring 2014; however, thanks to renderings, it is possible to preview some of the boatyard's interesting solutions that improve functionality without altering the style. Foremost among the new features introduced by concept and exterior designer Stefano Righini is the raised wheelhouse. The boat’s name - RPH - actually stands for Raised Pilot House, giving some indication of the importance of the decision to separate the wheelhouse from the main deck. This is accomplished by creating a half deck which gives the boat owner and guests more space and maximises privacy from the crew. The designer has also managed to integrate the raised wheelhouse with the vessel’s hallmark exterior lines, retaining that special Azimut Grande family look. Thanks to the raised wheelhouse, the Grande 95RPH has five cabins, four guest cabins on the lower deck and the boat owner’s cabin on the main deck towards the bow. The exceptional view and large bathroom make the boat owner cabin a veritable suite with an unparalleled sea view. There is also a liberating sense of space in the 95 RPH saloon; here, Righini has created a real sense of continuity between inside and outside, thanks in part to the double, floor-toceiling picture windows.

The luxurious and elegant interiors are by Studio Salvagni Architetti for Azimut Yachts, a proven collaboration that has led to such successful models as Azimut 80, Azimut 84, and Azimut 88. To the stern, there is a garage with pivoting platform for a + 4-metre tender jet; the engine room has two MTU 16V2000 M84 motors which, when combined with the planing hull with skeg, provides for significantly improved directional stability, enabling maximum speeds of 26.5 knots and cruising speeds of 20 knots. The 3,170 gallon fuel tank and 528 gallon water tank ensure great range, even for long crossings. Despite being a vessel with an overall length of nearly 29 metres, the Grande 95 RPH falls within the 24-metre cut-off and therefore can be registered as a pleasure craft. In many countries around the world this is a distinction which offers the boat owner serious advantages both in terms of crew management and administration, with significant savings in time and money. This is because pleasure crafts do not require a professional captain or engineer and have reduced crew requirements. In addition, the registration procedures are definitely simplified, with the corollary benefits for charter use: regulations are in conformance with MGN280 guidelines, MCA equivalent for under 24 metres. The Grande 95 RPH is the Grande collection's first model since it was incorporated into the Azimut Yachts family, now with five collections: Atlantis, Magellano, Flybridge, S and – of course - Grande.

Another Azimut Grande trump card is without doubt the exceedingly spacious flybridge - awarded Best in Class; it includes a cushy exterior dinette that seats 10, a mini bar, Jacuzzi, and comfortable sunbathing area. The layout sleeps 10 with the boat owner’s suite and four VIP cabins, each with a private bath; there is also a day head. The fourmember crew has three cabins and two baths to the bow, with separate access to the kitchen located on the main deck.

www.azimutyachts.com FOCUS of SWFL 2014 77

New Futurist Superyacht

In 2010 Sunreef Yachts launched a new range of fast performance cruisers from 70 to 170 feet â&#x20AC;&#x201C; THE ULTIMATE RANGE. The company resolved to explore a new market niche by introducing sophisticated design line of ultra-modern, highperformance sailing catamarans with environment friendly elements. The most impressive megayacht from this range is certainly the Ultimate 165 by Sunreef. This extremely spacious vessel with its total living area (interior and exterior) of 560 sqm can easily accommodate 12 guests and 10 crew. Arrangements of the lodgings offers extraordinary huge areas, luxury saloon open space with relax area, dining and bar. Additionally, an open cockpit connects with saloon via sliding doors. Port side hull is dedicated to guests, starboard one to the crew.

Specification: Length: 165 ft Beam: 52,5 ft Draft: 10.8 ft Mast Length: 200 ft Genoa: 5489 sqft Gennaker: 11840 sqft Solent: 3552 sqft Grot: 7750 sqft Sail area upwind: 13240 sqft

The yacht is designed with attention for the most demanding clients. A customized flybridge provides Jacuzzi, two navigation stations, big dining area and lounging chairs. Ultimate 165 is a perfect solution for the ones who appreciate active lifestyle on board. Two aft garages are equipped with the latest and greatest toys ensuring lot of entertainment during the cruise. Large tenders, 2 jet skis, 2 stand up jet skis, 4 sea bobs, diving equipment for 8 guests, laser boat and a wide selection of inflatable toys will make each cruise a real pleasure for the whole family. Moreover, the yacht's main deck accommodates a VIP suite and a study room or 2 VIP suits depending on the layout. The master suite situated on the main deck features private gym with access to a spacious front terrace accessible also from the slides. The Sunreef 165 Ultimate is created for those who expect safe and fast sailing adventure with 25 knots as foreseen max speed on sails, with a total sail upwind area of 13,240 ft.

www.sunreef-yachts.com

78 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

V S ICTORIA'S

FASHION SHOW

Everyone loves fashions shows; the image of seeing new designs coupled with high energy music gives us unlimited ideas, of what could be heading towards our closets in the near future. Especially if you happen to be at this year’s Victoria’s Secret fashion Show. This year's fashion show will include worldfamous Victoria's Secret Angels Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, Lily Aldridge, Candice Swanepoel, Lindsay Ellingson, Karlie Kloss, Doutzen Kroes, Behati Prinsloo andother Victoria’s Secret Angels were the stars in the Victoria’s Secret lingerie runway show. Each one of the spectacular pieces within the collection suggests unforgettable moments that combine femininity, strength, and the glamour. The lingerie runway show included pink carpet interviews, model profiles and a behindthe-scenes look at the making of the world's most celebrated fashion show.

80 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Candice Swanepoel walked the runway wearing the $10 million Royal Fantasy Bra, designed exclusively for Victoria's Secret by world-renowned jeweler Mouawad. The one-of-a-kind Dream Angels Demi Bra and matching belt will be worn on the runway in homage to Victoria's Secret heritage. The set is adorned with more than 4,200 rubies, blue and yellow sapphires and diamonds hand-set in 18-karat gold, and boasts a 52-karat pear-shaped ruby drop centerpiece. Taking a year for planning and development, including the use of designers, embroiderers, prop makers and more; was no small feat. So, unless you have been living in another universe, you wouldn't have missed one of the biggest nights in fashion. A trendy fresh collection that tells a story of great moments in her life. This year’s Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show inspired each of us with passion and desire for each woman that shows her strength of character through her own image.

ECRET

By Samantha Ramos Photography by Thomas Concordia & Dimitrios Kambouris

Barbara Fialho and Jessica Hart backstage

Nigel Barker and Estelle

Singer Ciara

Johannes Huebl and Olivia Palermo

Jamie Chung

Rich Wolf

Stephen Dorff and Michael Bay

Alicia Quarles FOCUS of SWFL 2014 81

82 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 83

Enchanting bsession

By Norah Edward

Jewelry has been an important part of human life and especially very important for women. It is thought to be the most precious thing for women. Jewelry is made of a lot of dissimilar valuable metals that are found were rare in this world. More the metal is valuable more its jewelry is worth. It has been desire of everyone to have the most expensive jewelry but this is not possible. Most of the designers make too much expensive jewelry but others make more expensive than they had made.

latinum jewelry is also one of the kinds of jewelry that are thought to be very expensive. Sometimes platinum jewelry pieces are said to so valuable that they cannot be bought by giving money. These types of platinum jewelry pieces are called master pieces and are used to gift them to some very special personality. That might be some well renounced celebrity or some person that has done incredible work.

that is also very smart and adorable. It has the same grace as any other platinum jewelry but the difference lie in the type of material that has been used in the designing of that jewelry. As the jewelry piece has pure amount of platinum more expensive it will be. Platinum jewelry has been in fashion from a very long time and will remain in fashion because of its uniqueness that attracts everyone towards it. Many jewelry designers only work on platinum jewelry and are much renowned for making some marvelous masterpieces.

Platinum jewelry is considered to be very elegant and exclusive when compared to any other type of jewelry. Its natural colour is so attractive that it needs no extra finish or painting it. Once a professional jewelry maker work on platinum jewelry and finishes the product then it is a very fine piece of jewelry. This is the only reason that platinum jewelry is not so common and it is seen in special classes of society. This is not the case that platinum jewelry is not at all affordable but the common people are not so interested in buying it. People with special taste for jewelry like platinum jewelry and they also tell their jewelry designers that what type of jewelry piece they want. Platinum jewelry is not designed alone it is also designed by adding some other precious metals like white gold or silver to add up some extra beauty. This is done to lower the cost of platinum jewelry as other precious metals are cheaper then platinum. Also these metals provide some extra glow and attraction to platinum jewelry. The combination of platinum jewelry and diamonds is thought to be the best combination in jewelry. Whenever platinum is ornamented with the help of diamonds its grace is amazing and it is so eye catching that people cannot resist its beauty. The cost of these types of jewelry is also very high but when it comes to getting something you like, then everyone is ready to spend money. Cheaper platinum jewelry is also designed FOCUS of SWFL 2014 85

Endless Motion

by Lina Lasalle

customers and friends. I’m very proud of our team and customers. They have allowed ZEMgear to win and be nominated in both 2011 and 2012 including the 3M IN-NEW-VATION award and FINALIST of the 2012 ISPO Brand New award; by offering a product for every barefoot lifestyle, from sports to the comforts of home. How is it that you discovered that solution?

Who is Christina Bracken CB: I’m an highly energetic person who enjoys activities and love what I do. I was born in Germany and now living in Miami. This has allowed me to do even more due to its year round weather. I’m a mother of an amazing, beautiful and smart 21 old young daughter, along with my three dogs (2 chocolate labs, 1 German shorthaired pointer) and I’m married to the most fabulous man in the world. You are an extreme player, what would be your daily routine. CB: I like to start my mornings off with some exercise, be it karate, Yoga, a gym work out or a run with my dogs. Much of my time is spent traveling - visiting customers all over the world (we now have international distribution in Japan, Canada, Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle east and Panama). Our office in China, or traveling with sales reps in the US… When I am at home I work with my team (known as my second family) on sales, product development and planning the future. Being an active player as you are, is this how ZEMgear became to be? CB: Yes, founded in 2009 by Frank Woods and I. We’re both seasoned industry professionals and In collaboration with product designer Matt Ochipa we developed a unique line of barefoot-technology footwear allowing users the full benefit of proprioception, awareness, balance and other health benefits that come along with using your feet as nature intended. When did you start ZEMgear? CB: We launched the first product in November of 2009, that was really exciting and we received such great support from our 86 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

CB: You can say, I’m a barefoot professional, with all the activities I’m involved in. Since no one is born with shoes on their feet it is an easy exercise to explain why and how being barefoot can be beneficial. Proper foot-health is key to our well being. When we force our feet into hard soled shoes we compromise our feet’s ability to function the way they were intended to work. We muffle proprioception and limit foot agility, balance and our foot muscle’s natural strength. Arches exposed to arch support insoles stop to function as arches and collapse since they are not called on to be the natural support structure they naturally are (you don’t see arch support structures underneath bridges or under church arches; they are meant to stand strong because they were constructed for that purpose). What is the future of Christina Bracken? My family, lots of travel ("maybe I’ll sail across the Atlantic again") and expanding our team, as we are incorporating topof-the–line systems and continue to design and deliver fun, affordable barefoot designs to our customers.

Photographer: Fadil Berisha Dress: Sheri Hill Make up: Isabel Perez Hair: Paul Anthony Styling: Sheri Hill and Kara for Serendipity Prom 88 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Beauty's Only Skin Deep

If you have yet to meet the newest cast member of the BRAVO TV Network franchise, “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills”, Season 4, which premiered November, 2013, then you haven't met Joyce Giraud. This lovely, accomplished actress, producer, director, and philanthropist, is a beauty queen, wife and mother. Most young girls dream of being swept off their feet, whisked away to adventures unknown, or daydream about living a glamorous lifestyle derived from Hans Christian Anderson fairy-tales. One would think Joyce is living out her childhood dreams. Oh, quite the contrary. In Puerto Rico, at age 16, this once upon a time, self proclaimed, 'dangly and awkward' teenager was “discovered,” plucked from obscurity at the drive-thru window of her fast food job at a KFC restaurant. Asked on the spot of the fast food chain if she wanted to be a model, Joyce was naturally hesitant. “I don't model. I'm too skinny.” The mans persistence eventually paid off. “He offered me $500 to come to a test shoot. I showed up with my entire family for protection, because I didn't know... I'd heard all kinds of stories about different models. Initially, I thought, 'No, no!' Eventually, I went with my mother, and my uncle, and another uncle, and a cousin. I was very lucky, right after that came a whole lot of other opportunities, and they were very lucrative.” Joyce was in disbelief. “I get paid to feel pretty. It's not so bad. Let's do this! Why not?”

By Gina L. Battle

After graduating high school at 16, then paying for her college education with the substantial amount of money she made from modeling, the path actually started to take shape. That's when Joyce determined she would acquire dual Bachelor's degrees, acquiring them by age 19. It made perfect sense that taking advantage of furthering her education was ideal. Pursuing university degrees would undoubtedly have been an incredible financial burden on her family. “I was able to pay for school and was able to help my mother a little bit.” Never missing a beat, Joyce continued modeling while working in social work for a year in Puerto Rico. “My practice was my own, and it was beautiful. It was an experience that I will never forget. I love when people asked, 'Why did you study that and you're not going to work in it?' She's firm with her answer, “I think social work is something that I can use on a daily basis in general.” Joyce reiterates, “For me, it was such a beautiful career path and I have no regrets." After leaving her respectable practice, one thing led to the next and she became immersed in modeling reaching the pinnacle of being an international top model. Commercials would soon follow, 'with countless national and international magazine covers' and campaigns to her credits.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 89

“Life is such a gift, such a joy”

Photographer: Siul Martinez Make up and Hair: Paul Anthony Dress: Gustavo Arango Accessories: David Yurman 90 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 91

While on assignment on a photo shoot, she was encouraged to enter a pageant. Once again, she declined not realizing this would be a natural fit. Little did she realize that when she did agree, it would turn the tide, becoming the first of many pageants, and taking home the crown. Joyce's pageant titles/wins include:

“House of Payne,” she's had a role in David Fincher's THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO/Daniel Craig & Mara Rooney, MISS CASTAWAY/Eric Roberts & Michael Jackson, Disney's “The Suite Life of Zach & Cody,” playing Matt LeBlanc's girlfriend on the show “Joey.”

Aguas Buenas, Puerto Rico

Joyce Giraud, is just like any of us 'real housewives of... (name your city),' with a few perks. She's beautiful, intelligent, entrepreneurial, spiritually grounded, and she's a multifaceted talent. As an example, Joyce and her husband, Michael O'Hoven, Academy Award nominated producer, named Hollywood's “Most Prolific Producer, by 'Hollywood Reporter', share portions of their life together on the TV screen in front of millions of viewers. In addition, they work side-by-side on various entertainment projects. She's the lead in the NBC faux-reality scripted drama “Siberia” Season 1, which they both produced.

Titles: • Miss Mundo de Puerto Rico (1994) • Miss Aguas Buenas Universe (1998) • Miss Universe Puerto Rico (1998) (Runner-Up) Major Competition: • Miss World (1994) (Winner) This would certainly become the platform she needed to exercise her own voice, to go further, work with different charities, to ignite her career. Additionally, this would be the time she would also “discover her love for acting.” As a young child, it hadn't crossed her mind to act. As it happened, according to the actress, after the Miss Universe competition, she was called for an audition. The enchanting beauty queen, with a sense of humor, poking fun at herself, candidly revealed a story of her naivety during the first film audition of her career. Joyce was frequently receiving calls from a local director. Confiding in her mother, she asked what he wanted? Her mother said, “I don't know.” The beauty queen was unfamiliar with his request to come in to 'read'. Not realizing it was an audition, she thought, why would I need to prove to him that I can read? I am a woman holding two Bachelor's degrees! Does he think I can't read, just because I'm a beauty queen?” Nevertheless, she went – still unaware this was an audition for a part in a film. As it happened, she was touched by the character's predicament, which made her cry at just the right time. Cut! You have the part.” said the director. “What?!” Joyce couldn't believe it. Understandably, as an untrained actress she was overwhelmed and excited, and asked the director for his help and guidance. He told her all she had to do was learn her lines; she wouldn't need his help. He told her that she would do great! “Because other people believed in me, I felt I would be able to deliver.” Joyce said. Well, it shouldn't be a surprise to read, Joyce won an award for that performance. At that point she was hooked. “I think I like this acting thing.” Of course, this would catapult her into Hollywood where she would have opportunities to pursue her new passion. Again, Joyce felt blessed. There was never any doubt, she would immerse herself in studying acting – given the chance. It would prove to be a key component before making the final decision to go all the way to becoming a Hollywood actress. This meant taking every style of acting class available. That doesn't come cheap. So how would she accomplish this goal? An opportunity, similar to a 'Star Search' show, in Hawaii, came up that her agency told her about, that would provide either great exposure or the top prize. Either way it would be a win-win. Was there any doubt, Joyce did win the substantial top prize. Now with her golden ticket in hand, off to Hollywood she went to take the desired classes and has been a working-actress, working along side great actors ever since. “I'm very happy being a working actress.” Some of the roles from television and film include, but are not limited to, “Baywatch: Hawaii” with David Hasselhoff, Tyler Perry's 92 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

When asked if being together constantly is ever a concern of hers, Joyce doesn't hesitate to say, “I am happily married to my soul-mate. We love being together.” Considering all of Joyce's accolades, gushingly, she concedes her most impressive accomplishment is having met and married “the man of my dreams, and our two beautiful children, so I'm a mommy and that's the most important thing.” Joyce doesn't seem to have any trouble balancing her career and family. They love and support each others desires and life's purpose. They take their little boys Leonardo (4) and Valentino (2) everywhere, each gathering one. Reflecting back on her life, Joyce has to pinch herself and says, “Thank you, God!” because she has such a blessed life. As a result, of the happiness she exudes, some people wonder if the happiness is real or faux. Can it be that Joyce is just enjoying the benefits of sharing and loving? “If you're happy, you don't let negativity bring you down. When you look around at the rest of the world, where there might be plenty to complain about, our complaining might just be petty. Why should I complain? I just thank God and pray that I can continue to be happy. If you're happy, you want others to be happy too.” Joyce is proud of the rise to her successes. “At this stage of my life, I feel the most fulfilled.” No one can argue, there's no fear when it comes to challenging herself to exceed expectations. Joyce is a mentor, who currently utilizes her expertise in beauty pageants to cultivate leadership for young women globally. Unfortunately, Joyce was teased a lot during her formidable teen years. Perhaps, that's where she derived some of her vision of “giving a voice to the voiceless." This progressive forward-thinking lady has managed to change the face of beauty pageants with the inception of the international pageant Queen of the Universe. Joyce is elated to say prior contestants call her to share they've opened up their individual charities. Are you wondering how this pageant differs from others? Queen of the Universe, 'provides women across the globe, regardless of marital status, motherhood or sexuality, with an opportunity to promote their charity work while providing a platform to materialize their dreams' – just like the creator of the organization has done for herself. “One very important thing to know is that the women must have a charity based platform. In my case, mine is UNESCO. United Nations Education Science & Culture Organization (UNESCO) promotes education within impoverished areas. I'm on a show ('RHOBH'), that besides all the drama, I'm able to have a voice to promote our children's charity.

“My career is just the cherry & icing on top of a cupcake”

Photographer: Fadil Berisha Dress: Sheri Hill Make up: Isabel Perez Hair: Paul Anthony Styling: Sheri Hill and Kara for Serendipity Prom FOCUS of SWFL 2014 93

When asked about how Joyce feels about the other cast members' of the 'RHOBH'? Joyce was surprised after meeting some of the cast members. “I had no idea what the rest would be like. Kyle, I really like her; she's a good dear friend. As an audience member, I didn't think I was going to like Kyle. But, she's a very sweet girl. Lisa is great. Kim is great. However, my relationship with some of the others ladies... I admire all of the ladies, they’re all good at what they do. They're all strong women, and I admire strong women in general. I don't admire when people lie. I don't like arrogance and trying to act as though they're above the rest of the world. So unfortunately, these are qualities I've seen in some of the other ladies I didn't mention. I won't name names. I can't lie to the audience and say 'Oh yeah, she's wonderful. Some of these ladies I thought I would like, as an audience member. It was a tough reality when they were entirely different from what I watched on the show. Honesty is what you get with this RHOBH cast member. Naturally, it is ones inclination to suggest such a success story can only happen to a select few. One might think, it's not something that is destined to happen to the normal everyday person. Joyce would counter that with “We must try our hardest.” She goes on to say, "Have I told the inner self that I love her today? If the answer is yes, than I'm okay. If the answer is no, then I have to fix my life.” Advice from Joyce: A. Study your craft B. Remain true to yourself – you're you! C. Do what you love, and you will never work a day in your life.

You can connect with Joyce Giruad via Twitter @joycegiraud; Instagram: joycejoycedgiraud; FB Fan Page: joycegiraud.com. Sorry, but as of this printing her website is under construction: www.joycegiraud.com FOCUS of SWFL 2014 95

Aaron Short

Making the connection By Dan Myricks

In a world where anyone with a computer and a MySpace account can record songs, post them to the Internet and then call themself a songwriter, the experienced songwriter and performer stands out, and is of more value than ever. Aaron Short is that kind of songwriter and performer. Whether playing in his native England, playing a headlining, sold-out show in Chicago, or landing his songs in adverts and TV shows, Short has an ability to connect with audiences through the quality and genuineness of his songs, an ability that he has honed and developed over time, during the course of his life long love affair with music. When performing as part of a duo, trio or quartet, Short knows that there is no substitute for going out and paying one’s dues, and that accounts for his tremendous work ethic, one where he’s played five nights a week to audiences all over Europe, taught music and worked with some of the best musicians in London. Growing up in Suffolk, England, Aaron began playing piano at the age of 7, and in his teens, he fell in love with Britpop, began playing guitar, joined a band and began writing songs. His influences were classic left-of-center singer/songwriter; Tom Waits, Leonard Cohen and later, Damien Rice. “I’ve always been into the lyrical and the gutsy, the artists who aren’t afraid to be deep,” he says.

96 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Moving to London at the age of 21, Short began to play anywhere he could, continually refining his songs. “When I first began songwriting, I wrote just to write,” he remembers. “But I soon began working to put my own experience in my songs, and I found ways to make my personal experience strike a chord with the audience.” That continual willingness to refine and improve upon his songs has paid dividends. In 2005, Aaron released his first EP, People Make Mistakes, whose title track was used in the American independent film, “Tomorrow Is Today,” and another song from the EP, “If This Is Love” was featured on a Channel 4 Slash music TV advert campaign. The exposure allowed Aaron to expand his following – selling some downloads via iTunes and increasing his live draw in London and, of all places, Chicago, Illinois, where his music received some exposure and allowed him to perform at his own headlining gig. Now Aaron has completed his debut album, recording with Ian Grimble, who has worked with Manic Street Preachers and Bernard Butler. The songs he’s written and recorded thus far represent another breakthrough for Short – “Special” is a moving and plaintive declaration of love and devotion, one that is moving for both its simplicity and wonderful arrangement, where the acoustic guitar strums, the electric guitar chimes and the strings provide supple and shimmering support.

“Lie To Me” is already a favorite of Aaron’s; a plaintive tale of love’s struggles, the song shines a spotlight on the hushed intimacy of his voice, an instrument that movingly conveys the ache of his lyrics. Aaron has now relocated to New York in order to gain new experiences and reach out to new listeners. With each show, he has a clear intent: “I want someone to listen to my music and have it cause the same effect that the artists I love have had on me, and I want my audience to say, ‘I get him – I’m pleased that someone has been through what I’ve been through.’” That may seem like a simple goal – but it’s only the songwriter with the skill and experience at his craft that can pull that off. And whether through his new music, or through his shows, Aaron Short continues to prove that he’s a singer, songwriter and performer who belongs in that rarified echelon. The album ‘Ten songs about truth, lies and other things’ is available now.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 97

Photography by Duc Nguyen

Life

& Music

Love By Lina LaSalle

An undeniably-stunning woman and an explosively entertaining vocalists, who has been dubbed Indie-pop’s “It Girl,” Darnaa, originally from Sacramento, California. Darnaa now resides in “The Big Apple” and is currently touring in Florida. Having the chance to sit down with Darnaa, between her tour to speak about her inspirations and new release.

98 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 99

What was the first tune you ever learned? Everyone always learns the Happy Birthday song first…lol

process is when everything comes together and you are able to create something that can impact others.

When did you decide you wanted music to be your career? I think I've always known. I watched a lot of music videos as a child, and would always think to myself…I would love to do that!

What inspiration was involved in the creation of your new single? At first I was unsure about the direction I wanted to go, but I knew I wanted to do something with a fun sound that was different from my other work. I think we have accomplished that with "Cowgirl."

One of your top performing songs “Runaway,” hits home. What was the feeling behind the song? "Runaway" is a song about frustration, anger, and pain. The music video was controversial, but I wanted to share this story to get through to people and hopefully, inspire them.

Do you try to give messages in your songs? Yes, all of my songs have messages, because, if we can get others to start thinking and talking about the important issues, while they are being entertained, then maybe we can eventually inspire a change. Being loved by so many fans, how does that make you feel? I don't know if I'm quite there yet, but it's a surreal feeling how many people love the music and can relate to my songs. What’s one thing that always brings you a smile? My assistant always puts a smile on my face. She's so funny.. :) You’re very fashion minded, any designers you like? My style changes depending on my mood. I love to shop in the village in NYC. One of my main costume stores is Patricia Fields. I also love Betty Page! How does Darnaa Relax? Laying in my bed and watching Lifetime movies. When not performing, what activities do you like to do the most? I try to take care of myself during my down time. I love to go shopping, go to the spa and get massages. :) How do you balance your music with other obligations? I try to spread out my time and not be in the studio every day. Balance is important for the creative process. Who are your top five favorite musicians? Madonna, 112, Chris Brown, Lady Gaga, Aaliyah Any loves, other than music? I have always loved running! When I was a child, I thought I was a Cheetah. I'm also a big fan of roller coasters. Is there anything you would like to share with your fans about you? Don't be a follower. Be yourself. Life opens up when you do.

You’re a big advocate against child abuse, what advice would you give to someone? Don't be afraid to talk to someone and get help. It's important to know that you don’t have to struggle alone. Coming from NY how are you enjoying your time here in Florida? Florida is gorgeous! I would love to eventually have a home here. Especially Miami; the shopping in South Beach is amazing. Where do you draw inspiration from and what’s your favorite part about the process? I draw inspiration from my real life; past events, people, and things I want to do and see in the future. The best part of the 100 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Having put on wonderful performances in Orlando, Tampa and Miami, what destinations are next? Hopefully all over the world! When can we expect to see you again in Florida? I will be opening for Chris Brown & T.I. in Miami and Orlando on January 18th & 19th and will be releasing "Cowgirl" on January 28th. What’s next for Darnaa? You will have to wait and see!

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 101

BiCE holds a special place in my heart as a musician because they are one of the only places left in SWFL that feature 100% LIVE music entertainment on a regular basis. There are no soulless “backing track” acts... it’s all LIVE as one would expect from a better restaurant. The line up this season includes some of the finest musicians anywhere. Classical violinist Oleg Timuta treats guests at BiCE several times each week as well as the amazing pianist Daniel Stefanko. One of my favorite local artists, Andy Wahlberg, performs on Wednesdays and as I mentioned, yours truly on Fridays and Saturdays. I don’t understand how I ended up working among these musical giants but I’m glad the guests at BiCE like what I do. If you have not gone to listen to Oleg, Daniel or Andy... GO! It’s an inexpensive way to hear some of the best LIVE music anywhere on the planet. The staff at BiCE under the supervision of General Manager Luca DiFalco (pictured) is an amazingly efficient team that compliments the BiCE reputation. DiFalco was nice enough to spend a few moments sitting with me for an interview at the popular restaurant and here is what I learned about him. He always dreamed of being the manager of a grande Hotel and thought the restaurant business would be a great place to start.

VIVAITALIA!

By Moony Mann

As you may know by reading my articles, I am one of SWFL’s busiest live music entertainers. You may have even seen me perform at any number of venues in the area as I work mostly in upscale restaurants. For the past few months, every Friday and Saturday from 4pm to 6pm I have been performing as a soloist or with a guest artist as a duo at BiCE Restorante in Naples. I have become familiar with the management, staff and menu at BiCE and I thought I would take this opportunity to share with you what I have discovered about the food, wine, music and people who run the top rated Italian restaurant in Naples. First, let me tell you about the food. It is no wonder BiCE brings the most authentic Italian cuisine to the table. They use the freshest ingredients and the award winning kitchen is guided by the experience of the amazing Chef Massimo Pisati. The Northern Italian based menu is extensive and consistently pleases the traditional Italian cuisine diner as well as satisfying a more international palate like mine. I would like to recommend a particular dish but I can’t seem to focus on just one as every meal I have eaten at BiCE has been superb. The wine menu, as one would expect at a world class Italian restaurant, has something for every casual wine drinker to enjoy as well as the connoisseur. BiCE also features a full liquor bar and has one of the best happy hour deals out there. 102 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

When the opportunity presented itself he started his career in Sardinia and Northern Italy where he acquired the basis for the skill set he has now. He enjoyed four years working at the Miami BiCE before coming to SWFL. I learned that after his move to the Naples BiCE in 2008, DiFalco was also tasked with training managers for other BiCE locations around the world. With an education and work background in hotel and restaurant management, and running one of the most successful food and beverage businesses in the area. I’d say he’s well on his way to realizing those dreams. DiFalco makes good use of his extensive experience in restaurant management to enhance the fine traditions of the BiCE Group. I think they are lucky to have him... A recent expansion project that now makes BiCE one of the largest restaurants in the area is definitely something for Luca and his staff to be proud of. The interior is comfortable and spacious and the outdoor tables are charming and have picturesque downtown Naples as a backdrop (corner of 5th Avenue South and 3rd Street South). In the event of less than perfect weather all the exterior dining areas can be enclosed in mere moments. The bartenders are friendly and generous, the wait staff is attentive and courteous, the music is eclectic and fun, the atmosphere is perfect and... the food?... Magnifico! I encourage you to take a look at the menus, history and philosophy of BiCE online. For more information about or to contact BiCE Restorante of Naples and The BiCE Group visit: www.bicegroup.com BiCE Restorante is located at 300 5th Avenue South - Naples, FL Reservations: 239.262.4044

Enhance your pool with rock water features.

Waterfalls - Stack and Veneered Stone on Spas - Coping - Decks - Planters & Fire Pits - Steps - Walls - Driveways & Patios

(941) 237-1626

Wet-Rock Innovations

wetrockinnovations@gmail.com FOCUS of SWFL 2014 103

SereneDesign

By Ann Gordon Photography Burt Kellerman

Beginning to End Interiors is a local interior design company and should be your first choice when making plans for remodeling or designing your home. Owned and operated by Alan Gravley and Stan Writesel, the company offers exclusive products and services in the areas of design consultation, drapery, upholstery, blinds and installation, and they have the resources to guide you through any remodel project from â&#x20AC;&#x153;Beginning to End.â&#x20AC;? Beginning to End appeals to a broad range of clients, both local and national, and has the professional experience and knowledge of the latest trends in design such as the Dream Draper Software, a computer program that allows you to see what your room or space will look like with furniture and window treatments at the click of a mouse. This exclusive feature is rewarding for clients who prefer a customized approach for their own unique taste. When attempting to design a room or space, it helps to consult a professional about the right textiles, colors and furnishings that work best for your lifestyle and budget.

104 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Alan knows the importance of using the right colors and textures to create the perfect ambiance for any room, whether it is contemporary, traditional, or something in between. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Color placement is especially important when using vibrant colors,â&#x20AC;? says Alan.

lan and Stan are members of the Interior Design Society (IDS), and participated in the IDS Showhouse in 2006. Alan is certified with Lurton in selling, designing, programming and installation of motorized drapery and window shade systems. From drapery and blind motorization to Apps on your smart phone that monitor your lights or blinds, Beginning to End offers it all. As a Hunter Douglas Priority Dealer, Beginning to End has full-size displays of the newest blind products to touch, feel and operate to help their consumers make the right choice that best fits their needs. Stan is a Certified Workroom Professional with the Window Coverings Association of America (WCAA). With their own full-service drapery and upholstery workroom, Beginning to End takes great pride in producing high quality products using the latest techniques. Beginning to End is expanding their current space from 1,700 sq ft to 3,400 sq ft, allowing them to provide a showroom for custom furniture, lighting and accessories, and they will be displaying artwork from local Sarasota artists. They also have a full fabric showroom including Candice Olson, Barbara Berry, Lilly Pulitzer, Highland Court, Ralph Lauren, Duralee, Fabricut and many more fabrics. Alan and Stan express their gratitude to their employees, Cat Hickman and Michele Kissen, for all of their talents and dedication. Visit their website at www.b2end.com to learn more about Beginning to End and to contact Alan and Stan for all your interior design needs.

Beginning To End Interiors 4453-C Ashton Road Sarasota, FL 34233 941-924-4481 FOCUS of SWFL 2014 105

Energy-Efficient Solutions For many people, a trip down the lighting aisle can be an overwhelming experience, especially when considering the many energy-efficient lighting options available. Whether looking at light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs or compact fluorescent technology (CFL) bulbs, there are some factors you should think about before making a purchase. Recent studies have found that most homeowners aren’t ready to make the leap to newer energy-efficient lighting solutions, such as LED and CFL. But those who are making the switch from incandescent bulbs to GE Energy-Efficient Soft White bulbs are doing so at a rate of two-to-one, compared to CFL bulbs. “We understand that consumers are overwhelmed by all of the changes in the lighting aisle, and whatever their lighting preference, we have reliable lighting options for them,” says John Strainic, general manager, Consumer Lighting for GE in North America. “For consumers who still want an incandescent-like bulb, our incandescent isn’t gone—it’s more energy efficient. Our Energy-Efficient Soft White bulb provides a warm, cozy light and dimming capabilities, but saves energy and meets federal brightness requirements.” Small upgrades equal big savings According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, lighting consumes up to 17 percent of a home’s overall energy usage. With an annual energy savings of $2.05 per bulb, a household that replaces forty 60-watt incandescent bulbs with 43-watt Energy-Efficient Soft White bulbs could save more than $80 a year based on 3 hours use per day and an 11c/kWh electricity rate. 106 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Family Features

“Our newer lighting technologies, such as GE’s Energy-Efficient Soft White bulbs, are specially engineered to provide the light consumers love the same way it was delivered more than a century ago,” said Strainic. “But today we can meet federal brightness requirements without as much wasted energy.” Other energy-saving options One popular option in energy-efficient lighting is the LED bulb. Though the price for this option can be higher than others, experts believe that prices should decrease as LED technology evolves, allowing for a broader mass market appeal. Another more energy-efficient lighting option is CFL bulb technology, which has been in the market now for more than 30 years and has greatly improved to mirror the performance of a traditional incandescent light. As new energy-efficiency standards are set to take place Jan. 1, 2014, consumers will choose between these more energy-efficient lighting options, including Energy-Efficient Soft White, or halogen technology, CFL or LED bulbs. Consumers will still be able to find a limited supply of incandescent bulbs at some retailers until inventory is gone. For those wishing to save money on energy bills, having an understanding of the different energy-efficient lighting options available can help to make an informed purchasing decision.

www.gelighting.com/EESW

Looking For A Drop-Dead Gorgeous Swimming Pool That’s Also Maintenance-Free?

Po Ide ol Buy a Gu er ’s ide

Let us send you our FREE “Pool Idea Guide” DVD. It’s loaded with photos, ideas and friendly advice to make sure you make the best decision possible. Plus, we’ll send you the Latest Report On “Zero-Maintenance” Swimming Pools.

124 Pun 10 Tam (88 ta Gord iami T ww 8) 45 a, FL rail w.F 8-3 oun 70 3395 Co mm 5 tain 1 e rc

ial

Lic

Poo ls

ens

WF.

005

com

709

As one of the leading pool builders in southwest Florida, we’ve designed, built and consulted on well over 2,000 swimming pools. We specialize in designs that are both unique and a delight to own. But we do more than just swimming pools: • Screen Enclosures • Renovations • Fences & Railings • New Construction • Pools, Spas & Water Features • Sunrooms Visit Our Showroom at 12410 Tamiami • Hot Tubs by Sun Belt • Pool Repairs & Service Trail, Punta Gorda, FL 33955 • Lifetime Guarantee at Every Pool • Safety Inspections Or call

www.FountainPoolsWF.com

888- 458- 3 7 0 1

With a $5 million dollar bond rating, a state-of-the-art showroom facility, and a long history of highly satisfied customers, you know you’re talking to a builder you can trust. Whether you’re looking for better health, more living space, a prettier backyard, or just a private place to relax, you can trust Fountain Pools to make your dreams come true.

Simple Tips

Keep Clutter at Bay

Family Features

If yours is like the average American household, you have amassed a collection of unorganized stuff, tucked away in piles or behind closed doors to deal with “later.” Establishing good organization habits and creating proper storage areas can transform that chaos now and set the stage for less mess in the future. Following are some simple tips to help make your apartment or home clutter free, and get you started with some new habits to keep disorganization at bay. 1. Don’t buy things you don’t need. Living clutter free gives you a better perspective of what you have, so you don’t make unnecessary purchases, which can be costly and only add to the clutter in your home. Be wary of accumulating “aspirational clutter” — things you plan to use someday, but never quite get around to using. Though tempting, also avoid freebies and gifts with purchase that you don’t really need. Remember, clutter creates more clutter. 2. Create zones. In other words, make a space for everything. Your entryway can become a repository, so sort mail immediately (recycle what you don’t need), hang coats rather than draping them on available furniture and use a shoe bin or tray to organize pairs you wear frequently. 108 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

In the bedroom closet, use vertical space to create additional storage with organizing units. Wood organizers such as ClosetMaid Impressions™ offer an attractive way to de-clutter with kits and add-on pieces that let you create a customized storage system for your personal needs. A second shoe rack in the closet helps organize shoes you wear less often. In the living room, create specific storage spaces for remotes, blankets, gaming equipment and other items using storage bins and containers that complement your décor. 3. Reset yourself. Every night before you turn in, take a few moments to put things where they belong. This gives you a fresh, stress-free start in the morning and peace of mind knowing where everything you need is located. 4. Turn clutter into cash. Motivate yourself to de-clutter by making money on your unused and unwanted possessions. You can sell gently used clothing to local consignment shops, or donate to Goodwill, Salvation Army or another nonprofit organization. Remember to get a donation receipt, because you may be able to take a tax deduction.

www.ClosetMaid.com

Providing "Full Time" Award Winning Real Estate Service to discerning sellers and buyers. Chip Krespach, Realtor速

Let me show you the difference. Call for a confidential, no obligation consultation today. www.LuxuryHomesSWFL.com Chip@LuxuryHomesSWFL.com Direct (239) 823-6768

Luxury Spa Opening

Ancient practices and exotic techniques are complimented by contemporary equipment and state-of-the-art technology. All services are accompanied by complimentary use of the spa’s steam shower and sauna. Assuage offers all the treatments typically expected from a luxury spa and much more. For example, Assuage offers special medical treatments for pre and post surgery such as lymphatic drainage and post-mastectomy massage. Expectant mothers can receive a pre-natal massage with approval from their obstetrician. For the skin, special facials and peels are offered, along with cellulite reduction wraps and detoxifying body treatments. A full line of injectables, such as Botox® and Radiesse®, is available and administered by Dr. Prendiville. Assuage also offers an extensive line of exclusive spa accessories and make-up.

Assuage Spa, the new medical spa that brings exotic relaxation treatments from around the globe to Southwest Florida, celebrated its grand opening December 12 with a ribbon cutting and open house for about 100 guests.

“Guests feel the difference the moment they enter Assuage,” said Tehjan Prendiville. “The ambiance of the interior has been tailored to set the stage for pleasure. The colors are vibrant with a distinct Moroccan flair. The interior design is a truly different and totally relaxing spa experience.” For more information, call 239-333-1450.

Assuage is located at 9407 Cypress Lake Drive, Suite C, adjacent to the South Fort Myers office of facial plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen Prendiville, who serves as medical director of the spa. “Assuage,” which means to soothe or satisfy, was created by Tehjan Prendiville, a registered nurse and the wife of Dr. Prendiville. Guests sampled platters of Mediterranean cuisine during the grand opening celebration, which included chair massages and exotic drinks served both inside the intimate spa and outside under a Moroccan tent with relaxing imported furnishings. “We wanted to give our guests a sampling of what Assuage is all about – a global fusion of hand-selected treatments from around the world,” said Tehjan Prendiville. Tehjan Prendiville has worked in the field of mental health for 26 years and has traveled the world with a special interest in cultural healing. Assuage Spa was created to incorporate these age-old holistic approaches acquired on her travels. “Our mission is to enhance and enrich overall health by taking a holistic approach to the entire individual, including mind, body and spirit,” she said. 110 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

By Susan Bennett

www.assuagecenters.com

Lisa Freidus of Gateway and Mari Bowlin of North Fort Myers

Acie Forrer of Naples and Martin de St. Pierre of Naples

Susan Bennett, Alice Manuelidis, Brittney Pitts & Tehjan Prendiville

Vicki Sura, Mark Schafe of Cape Coral & Joan Baugher

Darla Jean Griffiths of Cape Coral, Diana Willis, Gail Markham and Kelly Hanley

Dr. Stephen Prendiville and Tehjan Prendiville

Luis Insignares, Andrea Martin, Rusty Phillips, Tehjan Prendiville and Dwayne Bergmann

Kathleen Wolter and Amy Griffy FOCUS of SWFL 2014 111

Lift Sagging Skin Photo courtesy of Thinkstock

New Solution

Family Features

The beauty about getting older is you finally start to loosen up. You tend to worry a little less, laugh a little more and melt into who you’ve become and the life you’ve created. But, unfortunately, your skin also seems to take on a lax attitude. You – and your skin – are not alone. In fact, 3 of 5 people are bothered by sagging skin, and, according to a consumer survey by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, nearly 75 percent have considered a cosmetic procedure to tighten up or smooth things out. What’s more, statistics from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery show that facelifts seem to be making a comeback. And while surgery tends to be a last resort, many mistakenly believe it’s the only solution available for lifting, especially for stubborn areas such as the gobbler under the chin or the loose rings on the neck. Thankfully, science has decided to challenge that belief and serve up the skin its overdue non-surgical lift by way of sound. Yes, S-O-U-N-D. Sound Skin To be clear, this is sound that can’t be heard by the human ear. This is ultrasound; sound that occurs at frequencies only dolphins and bats can detect. In fact, this is the same ultrasound used to produce baby sonograms. In sonogram imaging, the sound wave energy is low with shortened pulses. To show a sharp picture, these pulsed waves create a tight web of visual details as they bounce off the body’s internal structures. To actually treat and stimulate a natural lift in the skin, however, the sound wave juice gets bumped up and the pulses are prolonged and converged for deeper, more precise penetration. This allows the energy to narrow in on the skin’s core fabric, including the same collagen-rich fibrous layer typically treated during a facelift. 112 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

The ultrasound lift The process in which ultrasound makes the lifting magic happen is nice to know, but what really matters is the validated science behind it. For the first time, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared a face-and-neck ultrasound procedure that is clinically proven to non-invasively lift skin on the neck, under the chin and above the brow. The procedure, Ultherapy, not only measurably lifts skin, it does so without any chemical or foreign substances. Instead, it relies on the body’s own healing process to gradually lift the skin over the course of three to six months. What’s unique about Ultherapy ultrasound is it relies on both the shorter and longer ultrasound pulses to first image and then treat the skin. Imaging, of course, allows practitioners to broadly see the different layers of the skin to be treated. For the treatment itself, the concentrated sound wave energy encourages select cells in the skin’s foundation to initiate the production of new collagen and elastin. In turn, the skin lifts and tightens over time. And, because the ultrasound energy funnels-in to focus on deeper face and neck tissue – it’s diluted at more superficial layers – the skin’s surface isn’t affected and, after 60 minutes, most patients are able to walk away ready to go about their day*. It’s not surgery, it’s sound. The scalpel is still the weapon of choice for dramatic facelifts. But, for a more natural and gradual lift, plastic surgeons and other cosmetic physicians now have a new tool in their treatment arsenals: Ultherapy ultrasound.

*As with any medical procedure, there are possible risks and variation in outcomes associated with the Ultherapy treatment. It is important to discuss the Ultherapy treatment with a healthcare professional to fully understand the treatment and risks. 1002964A

www.lift.Ultherapy.com

Skin Resolutions

By Brooke Hudis

The New Year is the perfect time to shake up your skin care routine. Swapping out your daily cleanser, toner, spot treatment or moisturizer for products that are targeted for your skin concerns could be the remedy you need to maintain that radiant glow all year long. Recharge your spirits (and pores!) with a new regime & tips from the experts with ULTA Beauty. To focus on the importance of great skincare by offering exclusive tips from our experts for the New Year from top beauty industry experts.

6 Skin Resolutions for Beautiful Skin: 1. Enjoy Your Coffee. Studies show that coffee beans & caffeine can produce elastin (aka tight skin). A quick skin tightening tip that may surprise you! If only spin class could be this easy & sweat free: • Bliss – Like a spinning class for your not-so-skinny cells, bliss's topical treatments FatGirlScrub and FatGirlSlim targets problem areas by energizing lethargic lipids to let loose and go 'lymphatic'. 2. Stay Hydrated. Skin thirsty for some moisture? Staying hydrated through the harsh winter months is key. Stay smooth with these featured products: • Radiant SkinCare by Benefit Set – Dull skin from daily stress? With this 6 step set, skin is guaranteed to be polished, cleansed & hydrated for travelers on the go. • DDF – Their simplifying elixir boosts skin's moisture barrier by 70% with ingredients including ficus leaf, lotus flower and red clover extracts. 3. Thou Shall Not Pick. Spots should only be for the runway or your cute pup! For those with combination or breakout prone skin, ULTA skincare experts offer these suggestions: • StriVectin-EV – Their new Get Even Spot Repair has a concentrated formula that targets stubborn spots at the source. After 4 weeks, excess pigmentation diminishes and after 8 weeks, stubborn spots visibly lighten. • Philosophy – Want amplified results on skin discoloration? Look to the #1 professional protocol for addressing dark spots: a skin brightener + a retinoid. Simply pair Philosophy's revolutionary new Miracle Worker Miraculous All-Over Brightener and Dark Spot Corrector with their best-selling Miracle Worker Miraculous Anti-Aging Retinoid Pads for fast, clinically-proven results. • Mario Badescu – Did you know that the Whitening Mask isn't only for discoloration? it's a great mask for overall brightening too! This hydrating mask will brighten uneven skin tones and gently minimize the look of old acne scars. Give the Whitening Mask a try!

4. Get 8-10 Hours of Sleep a Night. Research shows cells are most efficient at healing during nighttime sleep. Work on cell renewal and say "hasta la vista" to dark under eye circles with these miracle go-to products: • bareMinerals – With their active cell renewal night serum, accelerate cell turnover and boost moisture levels while you sleep. Wake up to firm, healthy, younger-looking skin. • Hydroxatone – Always apply under eye products with your ring finger! This is your weakest finger and will ensure a gentle product application to the delicate, thin skin under the eyes -- applying too much pressure can break capillaries and even cause bruising! 5. Prepare to Change. Your skin changes as you age and so should your skin care if you want to keep a youthful appearance. Be sure to use products that correspond with your age and skin concerns. The experts at Dermalogica suggest these: • 20s: Clean skin is the foundation of healthy skin. Perform the Dermalogica Double cleanse that begins with PreCleanse to lift makeup and oil-based debris, and follow with your favorite Dermalogica Cleanser for super clean skin. • 30s: Adding a weekly hydrating masque to your routine can dramatically boost radiance and reduce appearance of fine lines. • 40s: Keep up with your water intake to hydrate skin from the inside out. • 50s: Menopause can trigger up to a 30% reduction in collagen. Speak with your skin therapist about products that can help boost collagen production to keep skin firm. 6. Glow as you Go. A great skin care regime need not take a long time. It's all about using the right products and keeping up a regular skin care routine. New services like Dermalogica's MicroZone treatments take only 20-minutes at ULTA Salons and can be adapted to individual needs. Try Flash Exfoliation, Lip Renewal or Eye Rescue for targeted solutions for immediate skin care concerns.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 113

Experience the...

Green Market by Pilar Corona

Put down the iPhones and Blackberries and stop by “The Alliance for the Art’s weekly GreenMarket” for a delightful seasonal surprise. Take a walk through the exotic colors and flavors of the GreenMarket and pick your deliciously healthy produce. Isn’t it time you too partook of the latest in edible trends? You are indeed what you eat: not just what you do; nor are you made up of the fashion accessories and latest technological gadgets you carry. Ask anyone of the vendors about the fruits, vegetables and produce; and you can plan your week’s meals based on your tasty palette. Should you be a miss as to what to do, simply ask the experts as they’ll be sure to offer their wise advice. Frozen dinners and fast food meals will be an item of the past, as you embark on this new venture. Though be warned, it’s quite delish! You never know what amazing things you might find at the Alliance for the Art’s weekly GreenMarket located at 10091 McGregor Blvd in Fort Myers. It is open from 9am until 1pm every Saturday morning. You’ll have plenty of time to take your newly acquired fun foods home and make a flavorful meal that exhilarates your taste buds. Should you need a change from your daily routine, this may be the place you need! You will see everything from fresh cut flowers, pottery, art, decorative gifts and household items. You can also buy directly from the people who grow, raise and farm a huge variety of organically grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs. You’ll be one step closer to a greener healthier life! What not let it be you? No worries, if you have children. This is a child friendly location and they always have activities provided specifically for the kids. Take a seat, relax and enjoy an organic meal; while you listen to the local entertainment, explore the current exhibit by diverse artist’s and receive information about upcoming cultural events. Chances are is that we’ll see you there!

www.artinlee.org 114 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

ost people prefer to stay in their home or apartment for as long as possible. The best way to make this a reality is to plan ahead of time to make the amenities in your home as safe and accessible as possible. It can be hard to imagine that tasks around the house that were once done with ease can one day pose a challenge. Anticipating the challenge and planning accordingly may allow you to remain in your home for an extended period of time. Often, with some minor modifications, your home can be adapted to help you stay as long as possible even with some loss of mobility.

Family Features

Home Modifications Living at home longer may mean renovating a home to make it more accessible. This can include such things as installing ramps to bypass stairs, building a bedroom on the main floor, placing grab bars in the shower, changing the height of kitchen countertops or making a bathroom safer and more accessible. Before you make home modifications, you should evaluate your current and future needs by going through your home room by room and answering a series of questions to highlight where changes might be made. Several checklists are available to help you conduct this review. The National Resource Center on Supportive Housing and Home Modifications is a good place to start. Go to the center’s website at http://www.homemods. org and click on the link to the “Safety Checklist and Assessment Instrument.” Getting Help Keeping a house running smoothly requires a lot of hard work. If you are no longer able to keep up with the demands, you may need to hire someone to do laundry, buy groceries, run errands, clean the house or perform any necessary repairs. Those who are unable to perform Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), such as getting in and out of bed, walking, bathing, dressing, and eating, can often continue to stay at home with outside help. There are a number of services that can be brought in to assist with ADLs and other personal care. You can hire someone, such as a personal care aide or home health aide, to help you out a few hours a day or around the clock. Some health care services can be provided at home by trained professionals, such as occupational therapists, social workers or home health nurses. Check with your insurance or health service to see what kind of coverage is available, although you may have to cover some of these costs out of pocket. If very specific conditions are met, Medicare will help pay for all or a portion of home health care. Transportation Declining health often causes a decline in independence and mobility. Many seniors lose the ability to drive or simply feel uncomfortable behind the wheel at night. Investigate transporta tion options in your area so you can maintain an active social life, get medical care and shop for necessities. You might find family members willing to take you to the grocery store, friends who will drive you to social events, nearby bus routes, reduced fare taxis or senior transportation services funded by a local not-for-profit. Staying in your home should not mean being cut off from community activities you enjoy. Finding new ways to get around, even after you are no longer driving, may allow you to stay engaged and active.

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 115

Mind

Body Over

By Maria McCutchen

Photography by Nyul

Our brains control everything about us. The brain controls being able to walk, talk, to eat, to breathe and much more. Two of the major areas of the brain are the brain stem and the cerebellum. The different areas of the brain have their own specific functions they are responsible for. Although the brain is well protected, nestled inside the skull, there are things that can happen that can damage the brain, and cause the brain to not function as it should. There can be a birth defect, an accident or injury, an illness, or a tumor or brain cyst that grows on the brain. When something grows on the brain; such as a tumor or a cyst, it can put pressure on the area of the brain it is growing on. Pressure is one thing that can compromise the functions of the brain so that certain functions are altered, or may cease to work altogether. A brain cyst is rare. A brain cyst is a fluid filled sack that can develop on any one of the three coverings of the brain; the Dura Mater, the Arachnoid Mater, or the Pia Mater. A cyst can develop due to a couple of different reasons. • • •

Injury - Sometimes a cyst can form due to an injury to the brain. Hereditary - Certain types of brain cysts have been found to have the ability to be hereditary, especially when specific types of medical conditions are present. Fetal Development - One of the most common ways a cyst develops; however, is that during the developmental stages of a fetus, one of the three coverings of the brain can split. Once it splits, cerebral spinal fluid can begin to collect under the membrane, creating a fluid-filled sac. This sac is the cyst.

Many times, brain cysts do not cause any problems. You may not even know you have a brain cyst. Some people go their entire lifetime, or the majority of it, without ever knowing they even have a cyst on the brain. For many people, brain cysts are discovered on accident - meaning, they may have a scan of the head or brain for a different reason, and it’s during the scan that a brain cyst is discovered. They may never know they have a brain cyst, if not for having the scan.

If the cyst is one that does cause symptoms and is causing problems, a doctor should be consulted. You may start with a neurologist, and he may refer you to a neurosurgeon. A neurosurgeon is the type of doctor you will need for treatment of a brain cyst. Neurosurgeons are the doctors who treat brain cysts, whether it is that you need surgery for your cyst, or another form of treatment, he will be the one to consult. Sometimes a shunt is what is needed. A shunt is inserted during surgery, and helps to keep the cyst draining so that it does not grow, build pressure, and put pressure on the brain. Today, there are shunts that can be adjusted to drain more or less. They are adjustable shunts. No matter the form of treatment your doctor orders for you, your doctor will probably want to monitor your cyst over time. This is usually done with an MRI where he can get a clear view of your brain. With an MRI, he can see if the cyst is staying the same, changing or growing. If you ever start experiencing symptoms in your head that you are unsure of, or have never had before, the best thing to do is see a neurologist to start. You can also start keeping a diary of your symptoms. Things you will want to record are: • • •

What’s the symptom? - Was it a pain in your head, a burning feeling, blurry vision? Describe the symptom. What time of day did it occur? Get in a habit of looking at the time when you have a symptom so you can notate it. What you were doing when it happened? Were you exercising, eating breakfast, taking a shower? Describe what you were doing when the symptom hit.

It is very possible to live with a brain cyst. Take good care of yourself and follow your doctor’s orders. The more you research and learn about the type of cyst you have, can also help to put your mind at ease. The more you know, the better prepared you are to handle your diagnosis.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 117

Photography by Samuel Johnson

NATIONAL OPHTHALMOLOGY MEETING

By Susan Bennett

Husband and wife ophthalmologists Dr. Ashish G. Sharma and Dr. Nadia A. Kazim were invited speakers at the annual conference of the American Osteopathic Colleges of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation, Inc. in Detroit recently. Dr. Sharma is a retina specialist with Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida with five offices in Southwest Florida. Dr. Kazim is an ophthalmic plastic surgeon specializing in eyelid and facial plastic surgery with offices in Bonita Springs. More than 100 ophthalmologists from throughout the United States attended the conference to learn about the latest advances ophthalmology from Dr. Sharma, Dr. Kazim and other experts. Dr. Sharma spoke about the latest research in Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) at the National Ophthalmic Research Institute (NORI), which is the clinical research center of Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida. AMD is the leading cause of legal blindness among people ages 50 and older in the western world. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wetâ&#x20AC;? AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina in the macula, the part of the eye that is responsible for central vision. Dr. Sharma said retinal stem cell transplantation is now being studied in the United States for the first time in patients with AMD, but is not yet approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a therapy for AMD. The studies are evaluating the safety and tolerability in humans. Dr. Kazim presented a comprehensive review of lower eyelid surgery known as blepharoplasty. Lower eyelid surgery can remove excess skin, fine wrinkles and bags under the eyes, giving a more rested and youthful appearance.

118 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

More than 204,000 eyelid surgeries were performed last year, making it the third most popular cosmetic surgical procedure in the U.S. Dr. Sharma earned his medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit. He completed Fellowship training in vitreo-retinal diseases and surgery at the Kresge Eye Institute at Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, where he and Dr. Kazim met. Dr. Kazim earned her medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C., followed by internship and residency at the Kresge Eye Institute of Wayne State University School of Medicine. She also completed Fellowship training in ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery at Consultants in Ophthalmic and Facial Plastic Surgery in Southfield, Mich. Both physicians are board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and are Fellows of the American College of Surgeons and members of the American Academy Ophthalmology, the American Medical Association and numerous other professional organizations. Dr. Sharma and Dr. Kazim live in Bonita Springs with their two children. Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida is the most experienced team of retina

specialists in Southwest Florida with combined experience of more than 100 years. Offices are conveniently located in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Naples and Port Charlotte. Doctors with Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida are Fellows of the American College of Surgeons, members of the American Society of Retina Specialists, American Academy of Ophthalmology, The Schepens Eye Research Institute Massachusetts Eye and Ear, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, and the American Medical Association. Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida offers all FDA-approved therapies for retina eye disease and is a leader in clinical research through the National Ophthalmic Research Institute (NORI), including clinical trials funded by the National Eye Institute, The Schepens Eye Research Institute Massachusetts Eye and Ear, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, and other public and private medical research foundations.

F LO R I DA TR AF F IC I N FO ALL THE TIME

CALL 511 TOLL FREE

VISIT FL511.COM

FOLLOW FL511 ON TWITTER

FLORIDA 511 FREE APPS

PERSONALIZED SERVICES

A toll-free resource of the Florida Department of Transportation (standard mobile phone minutes, text message and data charges may apply)

FIGHT EYE DISEASE

By Susan Bennett

The latest research in stem cell transplantation that could one day restore vision for people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other eye diseases will headline two symposia in February hosted by Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida with Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School. The 19th Annual Vision Research Symposia will be Friday, Feb. 7, at the Naples Hilton, 5111 Tamiami Trail North, and Saturday, Feb. 8, at Harborside Event Center, 1375 Monroe Street, in Fort Myers. Both symposia will be held from 9 a.m. until noon. The symposia, which are free and open to the public, are provided by Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida as a community service. Advanced registration is required and is now available online at www.MassEyeAndEar.org/ symposia or by calling 1-800-536-8327.

Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear (SERI/MEE) is the largest eye research facility in the world and has collaborated with Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida on the symposia for the past 19 years. Dr. Michael Young, associate scientist of SERI/MEE and associate professor in the Department of Ophthalmology of Harvard Medical School, will describe the research underway in retinal transplantation of stem cells for the treatment of AMD and retinitis pigmentosa. Working with rodents and pigs,Young said researchers have been able to isolate stem cells from the retina, expand them in culture, and then graft them into the diseased eyes, restoring sight. Deeba Husain, MD “We have recently begun to isolate and charSite Director, Massachusetts Eye and Ear acterize human retinal stem cells, and shown Retina Consultants, Stoneham that these cells are also capable of generating photoreceptors following grafting to the Lecturer on Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School degenerating rodent retina,” he said. Dr, Deeba Husain, site director of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, will give an overview of treatments for wet and dry AMD. Rich Godfrey, patient liaison with SERI/MEE, will give a patient’s perspective of the challenges he’s faced and lessons he’s learned from having AMD.

More than 2,000 people are expected to attend this year’s symposia. AMD is the leading cause of legal blindness in people older than 50 in the western world. Approximately 13 million Americans have wet or dry AMD. “These are exciting times in the field of ophthalmology. Stem cell therapy is being tested now for safety in clinical trials at Massachusetts Eye and Ear,” said Dr. Joseph Walker, founder of Retina Consultants and an adjunct clinical faculty member with Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye and Ear. “We are very encouraged by the results we have seen so far.” 120 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Other speakers during the symposia include Dr. Walker, Dr. Glenn L. Wing, Dr. Ashish Sharma, and Dr. Donald C Fletcher of Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida and the National Ophthalmic Research Institute (NORI). In addition to sharing the newest AMD therapies, treatments for other retinal disorders will be discussed. Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida is the most experienced team of retina specialists in the Southwest Florida region with combined experience of more than 125 years. Offices are conveniently located in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Naples and Port Charlotte.

Michael J. Young, PhD Associate Scientist & Minda deGunzburg Scholar in Retinal Transplantation, Massachusetts Eye and Ear/Schepens Eye Research Institute

Safety

never felt

so good

if you could save 28% on car insurance … why wouldn’t you? *

LIFETIME N THE U.S.A EI .

MA D

LIMITED WARRANTY

Safe Step Tubs have received the Ease-of-Use Commendation from the Arthritis Foundation

See how much you could save at 1-888-719-4125.

™

W IT

H P RID

Financing available with approved credit

A Safe Step Walk-In Tub offers independence to those seeking a safe and easy way to bathe right in the convenience and comfort of their own home. ✓ Made in America, with more standard features than any other tub ✓ Dual hydro-massage therapy system- 10 water and 16 air bubble jets, offering life-changing benefits ✓ Built-in support bar and the industry’s leading low step-in ✓ The highest quality tub complete with a lifetime warranty ✓ Top-of-the-line installation and service included You won’t find a better walk-in tub, with all these features and more, included with a lifetime warranty at a low affordable price. Call now!

$750 OFF when you mention this ad for a limited time only

Call Toll-Free 1-888-414-5707

For your FREE information kit and DVD, and our Senior Discounts, *National average annual savings based on data from customers who reported savings by switching to Esurance between 12/1/11 and 4/30/12. © 2012 Esurance Insurance Services, Inc. All rights reserved. CA License #0G87829

Call Today Toll-Free 1-888-414-5707 FOCUS of SWFL 2014 121

Before

After

Ultherapy

A Novel Minimally Invasive Procedure

By Stephen Prendiville, M.D.

The introduction of Ultherapy® into the facial cosmetic realm has stirred a great deal of interest, with features on “The Doctors” and “Dr. Oz” offering a breakthrough form of facial rejuvenation. This technology utilizes focused ultrasound waves to stimulate collagen production and facial soft tissue tightening. The question is: How good is Ultherapy®? Although the search for the fountain of youth is first credited to explorer Ponce De Leon, this quest has never really abated. American culture has been fascinated with looking younger for generations, and this fascination has only grown stronger with time. The popularity of cosmetic procedures is the United States is born out by a number of recent surveys. If one was to look back 30 years to the 1980’s, the topic of nonsurgical aesthetic procedures was a very short chapter in any Facial Plastic Surgical textbook. However, with society’s desire to have improved appearances without downtime, and hence without surgery, there has been a proliferation of nonsurgical options. This trend started with Botox®, and quickly moved on to fillers (Juvederm®, Restylane®, Radiesse®). However, since these minimally invasive procedures are capable 122 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

of achieving specific targeted goals without reproducing the comprehensive results seen with more invasive procedures like Facelift, Brow Lifts, or Laser Resurfacing, the search continues. In the last decade, a technique known as Thermage®, a form of facial soft tissue tightening achieved with radiofrequency, was introduced. Unfortunately, results were mixed and unpredictable, making it clear that this procedure was not the “nonsurgical Facelift” many had sought. Other devices, such as Titan® (infrared), and Pelleve® (Radiofrequency) have since been marketed in the United States, but have not attained the status of “goal standard” of minimally invasive facial tightening procedures. In the last several years, a device known as Ulthera® was introduced, which utilizes focused ultrasound energy to cause deep tissue heating and subsequent collagen stimulation. Unlike its predecessors in the field of minimally invasive devices, Ultherapy® has received an FDA indication for soft tissue tightening (specifically in the ability to achieve a nonsurgical brow lift). Ultherapy® is typically performed in the outpatient set-

ting, with oral sedation and takes about 60 to 90 minutes to perform. The target areas for soft tissue tightening include the lower cheek, jowl area, neck, and brow area. Since Ultrasound has been used for decades as a soft tissue imaging modality, the depth of tissue penetration is more standardized than with radiofrequency devices like Thermage®. In fact, the device has two target depths, 4.5 mm which targets the fibro fatty tissue beneath the skin known as the SMAS (superficial musculo-aponeurotic system), and 3.0 mm to target the deep dermis; the device has imaging capability, allowing for visualization of the treated tissue during treatment. Results are gradual, taking a minimum of two months and as long as six months to unfold, lasting an average of 24 months. The initial response to Ultherapy® has been favorable for facial tightening and brow elevation. A review of patient reactions to Ultherapy® on a plastic surgery website (www.realself.com) reveals an approval rating of 83 percent among 143 patient reviews as of press time (Thermage® has an approval rating of 39 percent among 250 patient reviews).

Before

Ultherapy® can be viewed as an advance in minimally invasive soft tissue tightening, as an effective tool when applied to a patient with appropriate indications and expectations by an experienced Facial Plastic Surgeon. As far as the fountain of youth….. the search continues.

For more information, visit www.drprendiville.com or call 239-437-3900 for a consultation.

The Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce Visitor Information Center

After

“

Our Guest Book says it all...

Ulthera tightens the skin and stimulates collagen The main criticisms of Ultherapy® have been twofold. The treatment is moderately painful, albeit tolerable utilizing mild oral pain control. The second, via anecdotal reports, has been that Ultherapy® works better in patients in their late 40s to late 50s much better than it does for patients in their mid 60s and older. This leads to the conclusion that Ultherapy® appears to be the most effective minimally invasive soft tissue technique in its class, although not really a “nonsurgical Facelift”. In fact, most Facial Plastic Surgeons are skeptical of the words “nonsurgical” and “Facelift” within the same sentence, viewing such phraseology more as marketing than reality.

Thank you! Helpful - got lots to read! Very helpful and friendly smiles! So pretty! See you next year! Very visitor friendly and lovely scenery! Help is fantastic! Danke! Just moved into an older home so thanks for the info on services to my home! OMG! Merci Beaucoup! Wonderfully warm and helpful individuals! Great service! I love Naples! Grazie! Our second visit here! Thanks for your valued advice! Excellent help from a local! Volunteer was a wonderful help! Awesome staff! We love it here! You’re great people! Very good advice and ideas! We want to live here! We’ll be back! Beautiful Center! Excited to be here! One of the nicest and prettiest Visitor Centers we’ve seen on our trip! I love Paradise! Fabulous place...wonderful people! Gracias! Wonderful information! Thanks for helping me find things to do for my grandchildren’s visit! Gorgeous!

”

...to live, work and play in Greater Naples 239.262.6141 www.napleschamber.org

900 Fifth Avenue South, Suite 102 Open Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Stop in to see us and sign our Guest Book too!

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 123

Dr. Prendiville - New Injectable Filler

Using before and after pictures of actual patients, Dr. Prendiville will discuss the latest advances in facelifts, eyelid lifts, nose surgery, lasers, and reconstructive surgery. He also will review non surgical approaches including Ultherapy as well as injectable wrinkle fillers Botox®, Sculptra®, Juvederm®, Restylane® and Radiesse®. In addition to a light lunch, attendees will be able to make an appointment for a free consultation with Dr. Prendiville.

Stephen Prendiville, M.D., is the only Fellowship Trained and double Board-certified Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon in Lee County. The first injectable filler to restore volume to the cheek area has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and will be explained at a facial plastic surgery seminar conducted by Dr. Stephen Prendiville Friday, Jan. 24, in Bonita Springs. Juvederm Voluma XC™ injectable gel is the first and only filler FDA-approved to add volume to the cheek area for up to two years. The filler is approved to correct age-related volume deficiency in adults ages 21 and older. Juvederm Voluma XC™ will be discussed along with other procedures for rejuvenating the face at the January 24 seminar, beginning at 11:30 a.m.at the Trianon Bonita Bay Hotel, 3401 Bay Commons Drive, in Bonita Springs. A light lunch will be served. The seminar is free, but reservations are required by calling 239437-3900. Space is limited. Dr. Prendiville said Juvederm Voluma XC™ has been used for years in Europe with excellent results. “Being able to offer this breakthrough treatment to my patients is exciting because Juvederm Voluma XC™ is made for the patient who wants immediate results, a long duration of result, and an excellent safety profile,” said Dr. Prendiville. 124 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Dr. Prendiville is the only Fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon in Fort Myers who is certified by both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. He is recognized nationally as a facelift expert with more than 20 articles published in medical journals and he has served as guest editor for Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America. In 2008, he was invited to join RealSelf.com as a reviewer and has now achieved Distinguished Member status for his responses to patients with questions about facial plastic surgery and skin rejuvenation techniques. Dr. Prendiville also is the past president and secretary/treasurer of the Florida Society of Facial Plastic Surgery. Dr. Prendiville graduated with his M.D. degree with high honors from Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, D.C., and served his residency at Georgetown University. He was awarded a Fellowship in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at St. Louis University in Missouri, where he was a clinical instructor in the St. Louis University Department of Otolaryngology. All surgeries are performed at Dr. Prendiville’s state-of-the-art Surgical Center adjacent to his office in South Fort Myers at 9407 Cypress Lake Drive, Suite A. The Surgical Center is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (AAAASF), which is the largest accrediting body for outpatient surgical facilities in the United States.

Posture the Missing Link in Beauty

By Ginny Grimsley

• It’s not just sitting for hours on end that’s bad for you; it’s how one sits. The dangers of sitting have garnered plenty of attention in recent years, especially since we have become a society of sitters. Sitting for long periods comes with many health risks, including obesity and cardiovascular disease. But sitting with less than perfect posture – most frequently, sitting with the head and should in a forward position over a desk -- can cause significant neck pain, which involves muscles and nerves from the neck down. Proper posture can prevent neck and spinal damage.

To some extent, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but the things we consider beautiful usually share certain characteristics, with symmetry and vitality being chief among them, says CEO Bill Schultz. “The human body is an excellent example,” says Schultz, president of posture innovator AlignMed, and recent recipient of a special Congressional Recognition certificate for his contributions. “The people we view as physically attractive are usually healthy and symmetrical in appearance. That’s not a coincidence; postural symmetry and good health go hand in hand.” Good posture – holding the head, shoulders and trunk in perfect alignment – creates balance, which allows our many physiological systems to function optimally, Schultz says. When we habitually sit, stand or walk in a less than a fully aligned position, muscles stretch or contract to accommodate. This can result in chronic imbalances that can lead to pain. Studies dating back to the 19th century also suggest our posture affects mood, energy and self-confidence, all of which affect how attractive we appear to others. “You don’t see supermodels, A-list actors or the rest of the ‘beautiful people’ slouched over as they strut down the runway or red carpet,” Schultz notes. “Think about the importance of posture among the most challenging sports; for track runners, ballerinas and gymnasts, optimal posture is essential,” says Schultz, who explores four ways in which posture is part of the beauty-health connection.

• More than 116 million Americans, or a third of the population, suffer from chronic pain at some point in their lives. That’s according to a recent report from the Institute of Medicine. Chronic pain means that a sufferer has anywhere from 30 to 60 days of lasting pain, and this massive problem is estimated to cost Americans $635 billion dollars. For many, treatment and/or prevention is out of reach, however, a reliable and easy way to prevent chronic pain is to maintain good posture. • A strong, well-functioning core is crucial for training and optimal health. The bulk of a body’s mass is located at and around one’s core, including the trunk and pelvis region. Today’s fitness fanatics firmly grasp the importance of a healthy core. Surprisingly, however, much of the health-conscious population today is musclecentric and does not fully appreciate the importance of posture, even though proper posture facilitates core strengthening, especially while exercising. • Using passive therapy to continuously improve posture. To feel and look your best, it’s important to maintain good posture throughout the day, but that’s difficult, especially for sedentary people. Neurologists at Rush University Medical Center say passive therapy can be even more effective than active therapy. Posture-enhancing apparel such as MyLign by AlignMed, worn by professional athletes including NBA player Dwight Howard, offer neurologic biofeedback that constantly remind the skeleton and muscles to self-correct. AlignMed founder Shultz says the shirts are not compression shirts, which squeeze the body and are primarily worn for aesthetics. “The shirts map muscles in the same way kinesio tape – used to reduce inflammation, relax muscles and enhance performance – assists world-class athletes,” he says.

www.alignmed.com FOCUS of SWFL 2014 125

Receding Gums

Major Issue Affecting Oral Health Family Features

Affecting nearly half of the U.S. population, gum recession is an oral health issue in which the gums have worn away, exposing teeth to damaging, disease-causing bacteria. While traditional treatments exist, they come with a painful surgery with a long recovery time. A new treatment option, however, offers better, nearly pain-free results for patients. Gum recession and its traditional treatments For many, the issue of receding gums is caused by gum disease or from simply over-brushing the teeth and gums. While aging often comes into play, children can also be affected. In fact, 10 percent of children with braces suffer from gum recession. While there is a surgical method to correct the issue, also known as gum grafting, the process can be very painful, requiring multiple surgical procedures and an extended recovery time. To perform this method, tissue from the roof of the mouth is cut, removed and surgically grafted onto the receding gum area. But thanks to a new technique, patients now have a less painful option for correcting this issue. A new and improved method This breakthrough method for treating gum recession is called the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST). Invented and patented by John Chao, D.D.S., the procedure is incision-free and suture-free. To correct the problem, Chao uses a fine needle to create a small pinhole above the receded gums. With special instruments the gums are loosened from the underlying connective tissue and moved into the proper position. Finally, collagen strips are placed through the pinhole under the gums to keep them in place. The Pinhole Surgical Technique is “quick,” “easy,” and “instantly pleasing.” It is quick because it takes only 15 to 20 minutes to correct gum recession for two or three teeth. It is “easy” on the patient because no incisions or stitching is required. Hence, there are hardly any symptoms of discomfort afterwards. It is “instantly pleasing” because the gum line looks practically normal immediately after the procedure is completed. Many patients are astounded by the “instant” change in appearance. Factors for patients While costs of both procedures are comparable, there are several factors for patients to consider. Traditional gum grafting from another place in the mouth requires several incisions and generally can only correct one to two teeth per surgical visit, which can take up to two hours to complete. PST, on the other hand, involves no incisions, can correct 10-14 teeth per visit and only takes about 20 minutes to treat three teeth. Also, the Pinhole is practically healed and disappears by the next day, while gum grafting can take up to three weeks to heal. Coming to a town near you Due to the popularity of the new technique, Dr. Chao is training the PST procedure to dentists around the world. This allows patients from the U.S. and all over the world to take part in this innovative new procedure. Call 626-308-9104 for more information. 126 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

www.pinholesurgicaltechnique.com

Lost the Art of Medicine? Experienced Caregiver Shares 3 Tips for Injecting Humanity into an Often Cold & Arbitrary Heath-Care System

By Ginny Grimsley

As a well-traveled, well-educated couple who spent most of their lives in New York City, Philip and Ruth Barash had witnessed and experienced much as they approached their golden years. A savvy New York couple, they’d learned to anticipate challenges. Philip was a U.S. Army veteran who’d served in the Korean War and later became an attorney; Ruth’s education and experience includes philosophy, art, real estate, public relations and executive-level civic work. But one problem they didn’t foresee was navigating their own country’s health-care system. In the most prominent city of the wealthiest nation on the planet, how bad could it be? “Philip’s health problems began in 1988 and steadily continued until his death in 2012,” says Barash, who shares her healthcare experiences in a new book, “For Better or Worse: Lurching from Crisis to Crisis in America’s Medical Morass.” “We were in and out of doctors’ offices, hospitals and emergency rooms a lot, and I was shocked by the lack of compassion we frequently encountered, as well as the number of health-care professionals who simply are not good diagnosticians.” Barash’s cautionary tale traces her husband’s long death through a medical journey fraught with mismanagement and excess, useless interventions and a sometimes complete disregard for pain – even when there was no hope of healing. “The art of intuitive, compassionate health care is dying as doctors rely more on technology and are guided through an arbitrary template established by insurance company policies,” she says.

Barash discusses some of the lessons she has learned while navigating overcrowded and dingy emergency room lobbies, callous staff and tech-absorbed doctors. • Have an advocate! Through the years of Philip’s health problems, we encountered extreme kindness, thoughtfulness and high intelligence; we were also confronted with arrogance, indifference and self-serving staff during some of the worst moments. As hard as it was for both of us, we always knew we had each other. If and when you find yourself requiring medical assistance, avoid going it alone; it will be exponentially more difficult, and your chance for survival will exponentially decrease. • Ask what benefits a proposed treatment will have. We all like to think we have good doctors, and that if we’re hospitalized, we’ll be competently cared for. We also like to think Santa will bring us nice presents if we’ve been good children. Realize that invasive and expensive tests are often not necessary; in fact, they often make things worse. Be as skeptical about a procedure proposed by a doctor as you would by any salesman. • Don’t get sick! While this may seem like a facetious bit of advice, since we all succumb to illness at some point – it’s actually a sincere sentiment. Do not take your health for granted; do not think “they” will invent a quick fix between now and the time you find yourself in need of serious medical attention. Unnecessary health risks such as smoking; illegal drug use; excessive alcohol intake; and a diet filled with sugar, salt and fat will take you sooner rather than later to the hellish journey known as the U.S. health-care system.

www.forbetterorworsebook.com FOCUS of SWFL 2014 127

WYVERN Hotel Voted number ONE for more than the rooms.

Voted the number one place to stay for several years running; the Wyvern Hotel has one unique location with spacious rooms, a super friendly staff and a few steps to fishing, great food, entertaining events and more. You would think that would be it, but this hotel offers more than a central location within the heart of Punta Gorda. A large meeting room for personal and business events, Luluâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s restaurant serves a premier flare of Latin Fusion. Take a dip in the roof top pool or just relax and watch the boats go by, you are treated to a quiet panoramic view of Punta Gorda. Afterwards, head over to one of the art centers or maybe the farmers market. There is always something that your whole family can enjoy. This is one of the most exciting places to be that sets Wyvern Hotel apart from the others. The staff makes sure you have the option to be as active as you wish or do nothing at all. Sit by the sky bar and have a cool desert, listen to some live music and take in the colorful sunset skyline; as the beauty of the city lights creates a roof top atmosphere for a wonderful evening set for two.

By Nick Whelan

www.GerroArt.com (941) 639-6364

One of a kind handmade fashion Photography by Tone Imaging Model Wendy Wil liams

The Wyvern Hotel 101 East Retta Esplanade Punta Gorda, FL 33950 Phone: (941) 639-7700

Photo courtesy of Reagan Rule Photography

Men of Distinction

Photo (l-r) standing: Dolph W. von Arx, Jim Jessee, Andy Buschle, Moe Kent, Roger M. Vasey (l-r) sitting: Russell A. Budd, Bill Barnett, John A. Henry, Stephen C. Weisberg, Harold G. Weeks Every year, the Men of Distinction Awards honor men for their outstanding commitment and service to the children of Collier County. The Education Foundation—Champions For Learning is proud to announce that the 2014 Men of Distinction are: Bill Barnett, Russell A. Budd, Andy Buschle, John A. Henry, Jim Jessee, Moe Kent, Roger M. Vasey, Dolph W. von Arx, Harold G. Weeks, and Stephen C. Weisberg. "The 2014 Men of Distinction have been an integral part of the community in giving of their time, talent and treasure in many ways,” explains George Walters, Jr., 2014 Men of Distinction Chair. “Above all, through their volunteer service, they have evidenced a highly distinct passion for helping the children of Collier County ". On December 4th, the 2014 honorees had an opportunity to meet Men of Distinction Alumni for a luncheon hosted by Roy’s – Downtown Naples. The 2014 Men of Distinction will be honored on Thursday, February 6, 2014, from 6-9 pm at the 13th Annual Men of Distinction Awards Celebration generously hosted by the Hilton Naples. In addition to the presentation of the men, the evening includes a cocktail reception, dinner and auction. Tickets are $175 and all proceeds from the awards celebration support the work of Champions For Learning.

Prior to the awards celebration is the Men of Distinction Golf Tournament on January 30, 2014, hosted by The ACE Group Classic at TwinEagles, returning host of the 2013 ACE Group Classic Tournament. In conjunction with ACE’s Media Day, players attending this exclusive tournament will enjoy a lunch buffet before teeing off, with a dinner buffet and awards immediately following the tournament. 2013 ACE Champion Bernhard Langer will also be in attendance. Take Stock in Children scholars will share their stories, and guests will see the results of our community’s investment, and the future the students are creating for themselves. Cost is $1,000 per foursome which includes hole sponsorship, or $200 per golfer; all proceeds from the tournament support the Take Stock in Children scholarship and mentoring program. The Men of Distinction Awards Celebration and Golf Tournament major sponsors are: The ACE Group Classic, éBella , Hilton Naples , the journal , and The Naples Daily News. For more information call 239-643-4755.

www.ChampionsForLearning/MOD

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 129

Marilyn’s Distinctive European Fashion

Marilyn’s Distinctive European Fashion recently hosted a Private Press Party Preview on Wednesday, December 11 at its beautiful, new location at 375 Fifth Avenue South. Over 60 guests attended this invitation-only event that featured a personal, guided tour of the new space by owner, Marilyn Hellman; a dazzling production from Mark and Karen Danni with Karemar Productions that included Broadway tunes and a delightful skit; delectable appetizers; and a champagne toast. This was the perfect occasion for Marilyn to unveil her newly relocated, but enduringly chic boutique and its incomparable selection of clothing, accessories, handbags, hats, shoes, jewelry, and more. Distinguished attendees included Naples City Councilman Sam Saad; Phil McCabe; Monica Biondo, Development Director of the David Lawrence Center; Art and Bev Cherry; Patti and Ralph Miesel; Kat Smith, Managing Editor of Naples Illustrated; Teri Evans, Editor in Chief of Naples Illustrated; and many more. The Private Press Party Preview was hosted by owner, Marilyn Hellman, and Dawn Sulmasy; Jennifer and Bud Tash; Gene and Dianne Gardner; and Spring and Robin Haigler. Marilyn’s Distinctive European Fashion’s new location features an additional 2,000 square feet of floor space - making it three times larger than the previous location – and was designed to provide a chic, fun, and sexy environment that is exciting and always enjoyable to visit. The relocation allowed Hellman to expand the store’s incomparable selection of the very finest handbags, belts, and jewelry, from Spain, Italy, and France, while also adding some customer-requested items, including dresses and sportswear. The boutique also features larger, luxury dressing rooms, for more private fittings and wardrobe consultations; a chic showroom with a relaxing seating area; and a 24-foot runway ideal for fashion shows with guest appearances by European designers!

“This Private Press Party Preview not only allowed me to unveil the new location in grand style, but it also provided the perfect opportunity to thank the friends, family, fellow businesspeople, and media that have supported and encouraged me and my team from the store’s inception,” said Hellman. Marilyn’s Distinctive European Fashions opened in November 2009. After traveling for her role as a buyer for a specialty boutique in Chicago, owner Marilyn Hellman felt that there was a need for a boutique that sold luxurious, European goods paired with her special, personalized service in Naples. Not long after the store opened, Hellman received a request to offer a seminar about how to put an outfit together. Today she offers dozens of private and group seminars – where she’s always willing to give a tip or two - and fashion shows with select European designers each year. Hellman’s valued relationships with designers, manufacturers, and vendors from Paris, Venice, Rome, Madrid, London, and Milan allow her to offer exclusive pieces including handbags, belts, and jewelry, and also a large assortment of hats, including those by famed designers, Philip Treacy and Steven Jones. Additional niche offerings include a comprehensive collection of Italian and French blouses; exclusive jewelry lines that are handcrafted with inventive techniques using metals, stones, crystals, Venetian glass, and resins; and couture handbags made with exotic skins including python. Her passion for fashion reflects in her store with items that are within reach, yet beyond familiarity. For more information about Marilyn’s Distinctive European Fashions, please call 239.206.4460.

www.MarilynHellman.com

Chairs of Marilyn’s Press Party Preview Event included Dawn Sulmasy; Jennifer and Bud Tash; owner Marilyn Hellman; Gene and Dianne Gardner; and Spring and Robin Haigler.

Collette Beringer; Ann Renner; Owner, Marilyn Hellman; Kat Smith; and Teri Evans.

Art and Bev Cherry and Patti and Ralph Miesel at Marilyn’s Distinctive European Fashion’s event.

Sam Saad, Naples City Councilman, Marilyn’s Distinctive European Fashion Owner, Marilyn Hellman; and Monica Biondo, Development Director of the David Lawrence Center

130 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

er n g e i Des rofil P

Dajana

Dajana Basic launched her 2013/14 Collection amongst mounting expectation and quiet anticipation. We had been lucky enough to talk to the designer, Dajana, days prior to this event and she candidly let us peep into her creative process and how this collection came alive. Macaroons inspired Dajana into an "off the tired all white" of Bridal Collections and not only did she achieve that but a lot more. The eight dresses presented were strikingly different in the style and construction and at the same time coherent with the theme of the elegance and subtle delicacy of the colors in delicious macaroons. Each design presented not only a different color but also a personal and individual silhouette that highlighted the multilayered construction and the impeccable craftsmanship.

132 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

By Susana Sueldo

What inspired you to start your fashion line? Whilst finishing my MA dissertation on Vogue Magazine I started working as a personal stylist in London and discovered a gap in the bridal wear industry for very fashionable but affordable bridal gowns. I started researching the market and discovered that with today’s offer on affordable bridal dresses modern brides rather choose to hire a gown for still quite a lot of money (at least £500 per day on average) which they cannot keep for eternity. I felt it was quite a shame having to return something as personal as your own wedding dress which is not as standard as a graduation gown for example or any other uniform. :) So looking at the rage of affordable bridal gowns in London´s leading bridal boutiques (£1700 on average) they all seemed very similar to me and had nothing outstanding really... all mainly white, champagne or off-white, mainly strapless and with a little bit of lace for romantic decoration. Looking at the modern women´s buying behavior as well as today´s economic situation, I felt really driven through my entrepreneurship studies in the fashion industry to try and develop a business proposal in order to bring the bridal wear industry more to the fashionable upper high-street market and offer young fashionable brides their own designer signature identity for an affordable price, under a recognizable bridal wear label. Since childhood I always felt very comfortable in drawing dresses so basically I developed the idea that what my favorite bridal designer Vera Wang represents for the high-end market, inspires me to bring down to a more affordable level with own signature designs and represent strong designer identity for young fashionable brides on the upper high-street - affordable designs under a signature brand identity. :) I believe it is a big step in the bridal wear industry which might lead the industry into a new modern era but on the other hand it is what young fashionable brides desirer...outstanding designs and affordable prices, that is why generally our high-street is booming. :) FOCUS of SWFL 2014 133

How is your line different from any other bridal designs? My aim is to design recognizable but affordable bridal gowns for young fashionable brides by adding delicate soft color accents to my white dress designs. The brands identity is all about `away from pure white´ in order to create a very fashionable and elegant new upper high-street bridal wear label for a new generation of modern brides.

Who is the ideal bride to wear your designs? The young professional women with an average to an upper average income who loves fashion, outstanding designs and shopping on the high-street; who likes to combine fashion trends with timeless elegance and the mixture of expensive and inexpensive fashion items and accessories. Dajana Basic London´s brides are very sociable and fun, sophisticated young women who love to enjoy their lives, be happy and feel loved. They like to look their most beautiful every single day, suitable for each occasion. They are looking for an outstanding bridal gown, something different, modern and elegant at the same time that fits their body shape perfectly and does not cost a fortune, something they feel very comfortable and special to wear on their big day.

You studied Law in Germany, what led you to fashion after that? Fashion was always the main industry I was very passionate about, but being still very young when I started Uni in Germany and also being elected youth president of my home town in Germany for 5 years, I had too many commitments and was just not ready back then to move away from home to a fashion capital to follow my passion. Business Law was a course available close to my home town in Germany and seemed like a very save option whilst I was still very engaged in different projects in Germany, and with broad options to change into different industries afterwards. At some point I could not wait any longer to graduate from law school and as I did not see myself as a typical lawyer really, I finally decided to follow my passion into London´s fashion industry to expand my business knowledge and creative skills to study the management and entrepreneurial side of fashion.

What are your preferred fabrics? I absolutely love the key fabrics of romantic feminine lace, soft tulle and organza for all my dress designs.

Are brides normally decided on what they want when they come to you? Do they change their mind after the consultation? Every bride has an idea of her dream wedding dress which always slightly changes or adapts when looking for the perfect gown. My job is to present a range of completely new, easy wearable dress designs of each collection to modern brides which fit the majority of female body shapes and hopefully inspire individual ideas of an outstanding made-to-order designer gown `away from pure white and towards delicate color accents´ and also be able to advise each bride for a more customized gown, perfectly fitted to individual styles and figure.

How is your creative process? All dresses are designed in England and handcrafted by our leading seamstresses in one of our design studios in Shanghai. Each dress will be individually made-to-order, allowing brides to submit their exact professional measurements and then handcrafted specifically to the designers size chart. We tend to craft each dress slightly larger so that it can be taken in and perfectly fitted just prior the wedding to guarantee the absolute perfect and comfortable fit.

134 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Do brides or fabrics inspire you first? Designing a whole collection it is the mood of each season and the fashion forecast that inspires me for seasonal colors, fabrics and dress designs. Designing a customized dress it is the actual individual bride I like to get to know first over a consultation that inspires me for her own dress design. There I can look specifically at her personal style, body shape, and favorite color tones to be able to design the perfect customized gown.

Could you say your designs are adaptable to all body shapes? All of our SS 2014 debut gowns are designed to fit the majority of female body shapes. Having each dress handcrafted on a made-toorder base we are able to deliver perfectly fitted gowns by matching exact bridal measurements to our size chart, leaving room for final fittings and take-ins just before the wedding. Designing a customized bridal gown however we advise each bride on the best fit for her personal body shape and create sketches of each customized dress design to show the differences in fit and style.

Do you believe in comfort over fashion? Do you compromise? I personally do not believe there has to be a compromised in either fashion or comfort on a daily base, even though I know that lots of women do compromise. Wearing ready-to-wear fashion on a daily base I personally always ensure to feel very comfortable in my outfits, especially in all my shoes... if I wear heals, they have to be super comfortable; otherwise no matter how lovely they look if the design is not comfortable for me I personally would not purchase a pair. However sometimes there are limits in what designer can achieve. Designing all our bridal gowns we like to ensure to use very light materials, corsage support and figure friendly designs in order to achieve the maximum comfort for each bride. We have to accept though that it is nearly impossible to achieve the same comfort in a long bridal gown as in a light summery dress. All the extra fine material on bridal gowns are not made for practical day-to-day wearing but we can certainly achieve the most possible comfort to walk, dance, eat, drink and move around freely and comfortably on the big day.

Photo courtesy of Giuseppe Cardone

www.dajanabasic.com

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 135

If you cannot remember when was the last time you went out shopping for clothes due to your limited budget, perhaps there is a solution for you not to feel "out of fashion" anymore. Garnishing and remodeling clothes is not only an interesting idea for you to pass your time with, but it can actually help you renew your wardrobe with the minimum amount of money possible. Transforming clothes was always connected with providing many important functions for human activity. In addition, transformed clothes are a byproduct of creativity and ingenuity. Being a stylish person is not easy. Thus, improving your clothes' demeanor as an act of conscious fashion shift towards contemporary refashioning of secondhand clothing is actually rather progressive. Experiencing the new character of that same old pair of jeans you have bought three years ago, can be the outcome of your dedication to commit some time and renew its old fit. A few cuts, at the right places, some foe crystals on its back pockets, a monogram on the thigh, a gold sparkling textile marker across the waist, are some of the things that can help you transform your used clothing and attract other peoples' attention to your unique style illustrated by your personally crafted fashionable creations.

Redesigning

Style Your

By K. Buchanan

Additionally, transforming old clothes, in any way, can become your new potential value to another social group. You might even discover a hidden talent while in the process. A number of people, who have begun remodeling or garnishing their clothes due to need or as a new hobby, experienced tremendous success through their hand-made creations and entered the fashion industry from the backstage. The "one-piece" deal is a strong marketing incentive when people need to convey through their clothes the feeling of being different; this need grows worldwide as globalization transcends all known boarders-especially that of fashion. By selling their creations to a variety of clothing stores, or more recently online, these clothes re-crafters reintroduced an old idea, which became an instant urban trend. Thus, next time you look frustrated the resources you have available in your closet, instead of wasting time and money in trying to figure out what to wear for a night out, why not using your imagination along with some of your other skills to renovate the pieces of your wardrobe that need a little sparkle again to shine? Apart from it being a great idea to spend some quality time alone, redesigning clothes can also open up new career horizons; at least it can amuse you and your friends. Transforming an old skirt into an apron or a pillow case, garnishing your worn-out pants with silver spray suitable for textile painting, altering the length of your old simple black dress, or engraving your initials on your leather bag may be some of the alterations you can perform to your possession and enter a party with a redesigned style. The most important thing is that you will be able to congratulate yourself when one will gaze your looks and admire your stylish appearance. Most importantly, you will know that no fortune was spent on that "unique" piece of clothing you are wearing. Isn't that a sweat deal?

136 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

ADRIANNA PAPELL Adrianna Papell floral-print shirt dress with drawstring waistline, rayon/nylon, buttercup, $160.Crochet dot dress with exposed back zipper, polyester,green, $160. In Encore at Nordstrom and nordstrom.com.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 137

MICHAEL MICHAEL KORS Military zip-front jacket, gold-tone hardware, polyester/ rayon/spandex, blaze red, Misses and Petites, $225, Plus, $235. Houndstooth pencil skirt with slimming black panels, polyester/spandex, cream, $79.50. All in Narrative, Petite Focus and Encore at Nordstrom and nordstrom.com.

138 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

VIA SPIGA â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Pamelaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; T-strap sandal, glitter fabric with leather lining and sole, anthracite or purple, $250. In Salon Shoes at Nordstrom and nordstrom.com. FOCUS of SWFL 2014 139

bar III Tank $69.00 Skirt $69.00 Available at select Macy's and at macys.com

140 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Material Girl Top $22.00 Vest $34.00 Short $28.00 Available at select Macy's and at macys.com

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 141

Women's Seersucker Blazer, $90 Women's French Terry Pants, $50 Women's Draping Stretch Neck Tank, $25 Women's Rope Trim Fedora, $40 Women's High Wood Wrap Insley Wedge Sandal, $85

142 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Women's 3/4 Sleeve Donegal Open Crew, $180 Women's Long Sleeve Cotton Lawn Shirt, $60 Women's High Rise Short, $60 Women's Collette Combat Boot, $215 Women's Cross Body Messenger, $300

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 143

Pa r i s

By Samantha Ramos

In 1998 she launched her first brands: at first under the name "Laure K" for her wedding gowns and "Laure Kczekotowska" for her haute couture designs. Her pronounced taste for arts, cinema and literature influence the spirit of her collections, all of which include her overall contemporary and glamorous style. From 2002 to 2006 Laure K presented her collections within the sphere of the prestigious Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne. She has been involved, for over 10 years, as designer and artistic director for a large number of different projects in advertising, theater, cinema and merchandising. She is not only a designer , but also a traveler , and an artist of the world , who seeks inspiration from every culture and background. Her brand is a lifestyle- a universe of design, interiors and art. Laure's work is a glimpse inside her heart, whether it's through her sculptures, paintings or couture designs. She loves taking inspiration from all the classical silhouettes of original French Haute Couture , giving her personal interpretation with a Rock'n Roll Touch . The new line is a result of her exploration within dark allurement and glamorous appeal of the confident woman. It includes dresses, corsets, and jackets, of intense hues of black with accents of gold and silver.

Materials such as lace and silk are dominant and the use of glitter with various gems provide the perfect union of femininity and mystery while leather and fur achieve a mystical contrast. The corsets were made according to the methods of traditional French corset-making while respecting the recent evolution of the human bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s morphology. Finishing touches are made in the studio respecting the rules of French "Haute Couture" . This new line named â&#x20AC;&#x153;Couture To Wear " is a line with the esthetics of couture and the availability of ready to wear. LK PARIS, remains faithful to her glamorous references. It is this season a little more shine and rhinestones on black background. A small side more Rock and Swinging London, and winks to classics such as Chanel and Saint Laurent, revisited by the designer. Jackets more noticeable, with clean cuts, finish with jetties of rhinestones, to complete the black lace dresses. As usual, the collection travels , and stands impeccable at all times. The particularity of this collection is to ally comfort and style.

www.urbanreflectionbylk.com 144 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 145

Photographer : Tania Mendillo (www.tania-mendillo.com) 146 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Photographer : Tania Mendillo (www.tania-mendillo.com) FOCUS of SWFL 2014 147

Photographer : Tania Mendillo (www.tania-mendillo.com) 148 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Photographer : Tania Mendillo (www.tania-mendillo.com) FOCUS of SWFL 2014 149

Photographer : Tania Mendillo (www.tania-mendillo.com) 150 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Photographer : Tania Mendillo (www.tania-mendillo.com)

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 151

PANDORA’s collection of outstanding jewelry features raw, elegant designs inspired by rock style with a hint of vintage and a bit of attitude. PANDORA bracelets give women the freedom to capture the unforgettable moments that make life extraordinary and the new charms of the fall season offer a twist on what has become the hallmark of the PANDORA brand. Two elegant sterling silver bracelets are also new–one is designed to hold one traditional or new decorative clip, the other as many as five. Mix, match and combine the clips and bracelets in any combination, creating pieces that are unique to your personal style. It’s an idea inspired by PANDORA’s popular charm bracelet. Create and combine looks with other new additions to the PANDORA universe, including a line of 14k solid gold earrings, pendants and dangle charms with intricate lace details and diamonds; and large cocktail rings, featuring amethyst or grey moonstone, that are perfect for stacking. Stunning earrings inspired by delicate lace patterns in 14K gold with freshwater pearls and diamonds can be worn on their own, layered or combined with other pieces from the Compose collection. Rings in 14K gold, sterling and black oxidized silver have florally inspired designs with an unpredictable twist that is raw yet feminine. Large cocktail rings in amethyst or grey moonstone are perfect for stacking with this season’s more delicate pieces. New LovePod rings in white, yellow and rose 18K gold with brilliant-cut diamonds or colorful gemstones work beautifully with other pieces of PANDORA jewelry and interlock when stacked together. The spirit of nostalgic rock infuses the collection, especially our new sterling silver decorative clips in raw, sculptural shapes. The other standouts include a star-shaped pendant and charm in black oxidized silver, an alluring finish that runs through the collection.

Jacket: Sanctuary Body Suit: Nike Tights: Pretty Polly Bra: Victoria Secret Fur: Vintage (Stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Grandmother)

154 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

revitalization

By Deb Reynolds

Photographer: Lesley Pedraza Model: Jacqueline Depaul - Wilhelmina Agency Hair: Carla Ross - More Than A Slash Salon/Academy Make-up: Daniel Chinchilla Styling: Lauren Gold Location: More Than a Slash Salon/Academy

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 155

Photographer: Lesley Pedraza Model: Jacqueline Depaul Dress: BCBG Pearls: Express Fur: Vintage (Stylist’s Grandmother)

Our celebrity diva, in great shape as she partied at the latest hot spot last night and didn’t leave until the morning, emerges looking a little worse for wear. It is business as usual as she moved around the room like a queen working her contacts and maintaining her professional lifeline. Whether she is picking out the benefits, product launches, film after-parties or just frequenting the LA hotspots, she must keep up appearances. Going from award shows to elaborate costumed soirees every other night of the week can leave a diva in dire need of some serious aid from her entourage. There’s no free party pass there. The morning-after remedy for this diva is to dial up her top stylist who puts her through her paces. Her team works its magic to bring back the flawless looking diva. Once again, she is red carpet ready and making people wonder, “Is she born with it?” Every time she steps out there are cameras aiming at her, but our diva shows no concern as she readies herself to sign a few autographs, and board the limousine en route to the next gala bash. 156 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Photographer: Lesley Pedraza Model: Jacqueline Depaul Sunglasses: Kaenon Robe: Kimono

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 157

Photographer: Lesley Pedraza Model: Jacqueline Depaul Dress: All Saints

158 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Photographer: Lesley Pedraza Model: Jacqueline Depaul Dress: BCBG Runway Necklace: BCBG

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 159

Photographer: Lesley Pedraza Model: Jacqueline Depaul Dress: Edison F. Cortez Shoes: Via Spiga Bracelet and Earrings: Forever 21

160 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Photographer: Lesley Pedraza Model: Jacqueline Depaul Dress: Edison F. Cortez Earrings and Bracelet: Forever 21

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 161

e t s a T of

Glamour VincentGotti

162 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Photographer: Vincent Gotti Model: Anita Spoljar Creative Director: Niccanor Hair Stylist/ Makeup Artist: Ozzie Mendoza Dress: JOVANI (www.bridetobecouture.com)

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 163

164 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Photographer: Vincent Gotti Model: Anita Spoljar Creative Director: Niccanor Hair Stylist/ Makeup Artist: Ozzie Mendoza Dress: JOVANI (www.bridetobecouture.com)

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 165

166 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Photographer: Vincent Gotti Model: Anita Spoljar Creative Director: Niccanor Hair Stylist/ Makeup Artist: Ozzie Mendoza Dress: JOVANI (www.bridetobecouture.com) FOCUS of SWFL 2014 167

Photographer:Vincent Gotti Model: Anita Spoljar Creative Director: Niccanor Hair Stylist/ Makeup Artist: Ozzie Mendoza Dress: OLVIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S (www.bridetobecouture.com)

168 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 169

Photographer: Vincent Gotti Model: Anita Spoljar Creative Director: Niccanor Hair Stylist/ Makeup Artist: Ozzie Mendoza Dress: JOVANI (www.bridetobecouture.com)

170 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 171

172 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Australia From

Style with

by Dan Myricks

As she glides into a couch at New York’s Bowery Hotel in a black leather Dior jacket and razorblade heels, Australian fashion entrepreneur Davina Reichman Schuck looks every inch the glamorous fasionista. Since starting NYC Fashion Runway 2 years ago, the company has become the go-to for independent and emerging designers, giving them stardom, publicity and buyers. “NYC Fashion Runway is a chance to get designers noticed with runway shows, promotion and business customers. It’s a thrill to seek out the next independent designer and make them famous”, said Ms Schuck. As she talks and laughs, you can see that she is a genuine home-grown Aussie woman with a warm vibe. Davina is the leggiest MBA you’ll ever see, a successful fashion entrepreneur with 2 successful companies under her belt – Being Born Again Couture (www.beingbornagain.net) collaborating famous fashion designers with artists to create high-end garments, and iClothing (www.iclothing.com.au): iPad compatible clothing, inspired by Kangaroos’ pouches. A career in fashion event management, marketing and public relations is not for the fainthearted. It can be glamorous - organizing parties and fashion shows, marketing cool concepts, mingling with celebrities - and rewarding, but expect to work hard. “Success is doing what you absolutely love. Be passionate, maintain focus on things you can control and work hard. Innovate: don't blend in with everyone else. That’s why we started NYC Fashion Runway,” says the fashion entrepreneur.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 173

Technology

in a Hectic World

The advancements in technology, including devices such as smartphones and tablets, offer users a customized experience based on their own preferences and taste. Today’s technology provides us with a world of information and entertainment options to make life easier. It’s no secret that devices such as smartphones and tablets are useful little devices. In fact, a recent study shows that about onethird of all U.S. households now own a tablet, and this number is expected to climb. Some products put these advancements to use by offering personalized experiences for the user. One such product, PressReader, provides people with access to thousands of the world’s best-loved newspapers and magazines on their computers, smartphones, tablets and e-readers. But beyond the news, these special innovations can also greatly improve options for other things, such as enhanced entertainment options. Entertainment on your time New features on devices make pulling up a favorite album or checking out the latest comedy movie a breeze. For those looking to expand their musical knowledge or just enjoy their favorite artists, the Spotify app allows users free access to millions of songs. Plus, this app allows you to build your own collection of playlists so you have tunes to fit any occasion. If you’re looking to catch up on a hit television series or new movie, the Netflix app allows users to pick from thousands of titles with the touch of a button. If you enjoy watching the latest viral videos, the YouTube app allows you to catch them all. The app also provides recommendations based on previously watched videos, a voice search option and the ability to share videos using your favorite social media platforms. The best part about all of these apps is the ability to use them at any time you desire, all from your device.

Family Features

Hand-picked news Personal devices make receiving news easier than ever before. Now users can customize exactly the kind of news they want, where they get it and how they receive it. Long before smartphones and tablets, people relied only on print newspaper as their primary source for information. With the advent of apps like PressReader, people can pick from over 2,000 publications. It’s a portable digital newsstand that offers the convenience of offline and online reading anytime, anywhere. This app makes it easy for business travelers to catch up with their favorite hometown publication while they’re thousands of miles from home. Business owners in the hospitality, retail and transportation industries can also use this service as an added perk to offer to guests during their stay and has been an effective way for businesses to maintain their competitive advantage. Thanks to technology, our lives are easier and more convenient with faster access to information and customized content. With aggregated services like PressReader, Spotify, and NetFlix, you only need one platform to get everything you need. In a hectic world, these handy tools can make lives a little less stressful.

www.pressreader.com DELL XPS 18 Portable All-in-One Desktop 174 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Spicing Up Sarasota Dining

Gulf coast residents and visitors in search of new dining destinations will find some palate-pleasing options in store at The Mall at University Town Center, now under construction in Sarasota, Fla. Taubman Centers, Inc. (NYSE: TCO) and Benderson Development Company, LLC today revealed five restaurants – all new to the market – opening with the center next year. The 880,000-square-foot, $315-million Mall at University Town Center opens Oct. 16, 2014. With anchors Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy’s and Dillard’s and more than 100 specialty stores and restaurants, the center will be the region’s dominant shopping and dining destination. Spicing up the local dining scene is the center’s premier collection of restaurants, all new to the Sarasota market:

-BRIO Tuscan Grille, serving authentic, northern Italian cuisine made from the finest and freshest ingredients in a Tuscan villa atmosphere; -The Capital Grille, a fine-dining establishment renowned for its dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, award-winning wine list and personalized, professional service; -The Cheesecake Factory, a popular full-service restaurant known for its extensive menu, generous portions and legendary desserts; -Kona Grill, offering modern American favorites, award-winning sushi and seasonally inspired menus in a casually elegant atmosphere; and -Seasons 52 fresh grill and wine bar, featuring natural cooking techniques, the freshest ingredients at the peak of ripeness and an award-winning international wine list. The Mall at University Town Center opens Oct. 16, 2014. Located at I-75 and University Parkway, this world-class fashion and dining destination will feature approximately 880,000 square feet of retail space with Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy's, Dillard's and more than 100 stores and restaurants. The shopping center will feature many distinctive retailers not found anywhere else in the local market, offering customers a diverse mix of fashion and lifestyle retailers, popular favorites, sit-down restaurants and a children's play area.

www.themallatuniversitytowncenter.com

ECHO Vintage Books & Vinyl Providing Downtown Fort Myers With A Great Afternoon Relaxer Open to the public Thursday-Saturday from 11:00am to 5:00pm, ECHO Vintage Books & Vinyl serves as one of Downtown Fort Myers’ greatest treasures. The book and record store, that houses the area’s largest selection of rare, out of print and hard to find books and records, offers the public the enjoyment of relaxation at its finest; nothing quite compares to shuffling through old records searching for that one great hit, or scanning the shelves upon shelves of genuine

book collections, pleased to find that there is something for everyone! The shop is serves as retail for books and records primarily, but customers are pleasantly surprised by the large array of specialty gifts that are also available. If vintage gifts and memorabilia, comic books, ephemera, stamps, or retro clothes strike your fancy ECHO Vintage Books & Vinyl is your one stop shop. The store is also a great thought for the gift buyer as it is home to collection of vintage birthday and celebratory cards and gift ideas! Take a stroll through the one-of-a-kind shop at 793 Fowler Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901. By Kayla DaCosta

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 175

WELLINGTON WARD ART SHOW

World-renowned artist Wellington Ward hosted his first art show in more than a decade November 26 with more than 350 guests at the Colonial Country Club. Among the guests were his two sons, Ben Ward of Fort Myers and Sam Ward, USA TODAY senior illustrator, who lives in Sarasota.

Ward, whose works have been commissioned four times by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), displayed more than 100 works of art – many of which had never been exhibited previously. Ward said anyone who is interested in purchasing any of the artwork can contact him at 239-466-5476. “It was a wonderful night reconnecting with old friends and seeing their reaction to some of my most popular images, which were joined by newer pieces,” he said. Ward said he sold 19 prints during the evening. Ward had been absent from the local art scene for many years while caring for his wife Barbara, the former principal of the Sanibel School, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s 15 years ago. Ward was her sole

caregiver until her condition deteriorated a few years ago and she was moved to a full-time care facility, where he visits her several times each week. Ward, working in acrylics and pencil drawings, is best known locally for his realistic portrayal of marine life, shrimp boats, and landscapes, many of which were captured from the back yard of the couple’s former home on Connie Mack Island. His subject matter has been described as “the land, the sea, and much of what lies between.” “This reminds me so much of the fish shacks I used to see as a boy all over Southwest Florida. They are all gone now,” said long-time resident John Sheppard after purchasing the print “Summer Solitude.” Ward is best known locally for his series of pencil sketches created to honor the 100th birthday of the City of Fort Myers, which were the main fund-raiser for the city’s Centennial Celebration in 1985. The prints currently hang in banks and professional offices throughout Southwest Florida. Ward’s love of the area is evident in his philanthropic endeavors, which has included creating an original painting of Thomas Edison that sold for $50,000 to benefit the restoration of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. A subsequent series of three original pencil sketches of Henry Fordthemed montages brought in $20,000 during the annual Edison-Ford Winter Estates Foundation Gala in 2009. Art has been Ward’s life’s work which includes a career as an art director for the Department of Defense. Raised in Virginia, Ward attended art school at the Richmond Professional Institute, now known as Virginia Commonwealth University. He moved to Southwest Florida with his family in the early 1970s and now makes his home in South Fort Myers. By Susan Bennett

Maureen McMenemy, Ben Ward and Wellington Ward with door prize artwork

Howard and Nancy Wheeler of Fort Myers Harriet Hart and Lisa Armstrong of Fort Myers

General (Ret.) James Dozier and Sharlene Hamel Dozier of Fort Myers 176 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Marlene Smith, Cis Roberts and Michael Garner, catering director of Colonial Country Club

ART

Your Piece of

By Ian Howes

Past is Past - by Gael Collar

When you look at abstract paintings, it is easy to be mesmerized by the usage of color and the perception of the artist. You can in reality think of abstract paintings like those of memories in oils of the windy city of Chicago or sunrises of the gulf. You can see how artist catch the nub of a city life or coastal landscape, with recurring characteristics like wet roadways, people or large buildings. For those who look at other forms of abstract painting, you will be highly struck with seascape art. You will cherish the innate colorful floral of lilies and popâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of environmental tones. You and only you can really identify with a painting more than anybody else. I conceive you will really appreciate and enjoy as you examine the detail of each brush stroke. Each piece is regarded to be a very unique collection when you look at closely, you can scarcely recognize details the artist has thoroughly included. You will discover how some images have an organic and well defined appearance. When a painter draws, he or she tries to mix their own perceptual experiences with colors and expression. Some early collections are painted in a quite unparalleled style. Some start off with their canvas covered with a primer so that a gentle clean texture is created. A cloth is attached to the canvas and the whole painting is done on the cloth. When you view the paintings, you will feel like the cloth is part of the original oil painting. In most paintings, the cloth acts as a curtain which is hanging behind the art.

ow that you purchased your oil painting, you now will need to look after it, even if you only paid a small amount for. Regardless of whether it was a relatively costly piece of art or not, you purchased your abstract painting because it meant a great deal to you and you enjoy looking at it. You can always make the painting last a very long time if you take very good care of it. The way you look after your canvas abstract painting, matters a lot. You can't just clean the oil paintings in the same way you'd clean some pieces of artwork, or some pieces of furniture, for that matter. Oil paintings done on canvas require special care if they are to be enjoyed for a long while.

Your abstract painting was worth the time and effort when you bought it. It could be because you feel this piece of artwork really speaks to you. Continue enjoying your abstract paintings, make sure that you take good care of it and protect it from harm.

How can you look after your Abstract Paintings?

Here are some basic guidelines. The conditions in the room where you place your abstract canvas painting, can seriously affect the condition of your painting itself. In an ideal world Abstract Paintings done on canvas should be put where heat and humidity are not going to cause it a problem. You shouldn't put your paintings anywhere where they open to heat, such as ovens, radiators or fireplaces. Also you should not place your canvas oil paintings in a room where the air does not move, such as a bath room where there are no vents. Too much heat will damage the abstract paintings and too much moisture will encourage mold to really grow on it. One thing that you should try to avoid when placing your abstract paintings in a room is direct sunlight. Exposure to ultra violet sunrays can cause the painted canvas to fade over time.

The correct way to clean and Store abstract paintings

How you clean your abstract oil paintings helps to maintain the overall quality of the oil painting. When you clean oil paintings on canvas, it is enough that you dust it very lightly and gently with a fine very dry and lint free cloth, a softest and clean brush, or maybe with a feather-type duster. The best way to clean canvas oil paintings is to brush it with downward strokes from top to bottom, including the framing. What you should not do when cleaning your abstract paintings is to spray it with water or with chemical cleaners. These will definitely ruin the look of the painting. Do not touch any part of the surface of the painted canvas. The oils on your skin can react with the paints and damage the look of the painting. As for moving and storing your oil paintings, ensure that you cover the front of the oil painting first before you move it. You can put bobble wrap round the painting itself to provide better protection. This will definitely help to prevent your canvas from getting dented.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 177

Once and a year a t B ase he adul t n exhibi t l expa Miami B minds al ion of cre perfo nded Pub each, pr ike. This ativity ig o ited rmances lic secto vided a year’s 12 nites the w was as matc and film r and a v center of th editio young n showdescribed hed by t screenin ibrantly d inspirati of Art h o ies fr in Miam by man e show' gs, the q iverse lin n. With s the l om acros i Beach. y observe programuality of e-up of t an eadin F s e 3 a 1 cou turin rs as th ming. T works ex alks, an e g ar e g v and er-deepe t fair of t ntries, th 258 lea stronge he 12th e hibi d tors, nternatio r unders he Amer e show c ing inte st-ever A dition r gene from acr nal audie tanding icas.. Comonfirmed national rt Basel a oss t ratio gal le n n its p i n c d es g e n of h r colle e world. . The sho njoymen together ositioning If yo c t t w att From tors. o o f e u a nco as rt ra reno a pro have n wned cted ove with nat urage e f v o e u ion r atte r nd e 7,000 col le f ctors 50,000 v al uniqu -square- fect on y nded Art is to th e ne i tive, e and st foot outdou. From Basel Mi xt a old. supportinunning. E oor proj the hund mi Beac e h T a g r c e h t o c ion w al l le ds of e exh h yea ne vi with ve s a r i g sissip the open bitions d ls of cre present ll, the pr alleries it leaves to th s e e a i p n m s t s i i g e , v o o n i m S n prese ty am nstra e tatio anfo ight eth sente nting Ro rd Bigge by Thea ted unpa ong arti ing new ns were a s al l r s n r d t s n a t a s di C o l l i n by t h e l d D u a a n d M e r G a t e l l e l e d p b o t h youn maginaoon rte. T s and erfor s Par B ass M g m k int o sev Museum here was edicine, the Blac ances. and In ad St and k Mo of Ar eral also d t n i u h an o ks of arting nique t and e Ala the w tion to u t A l Mis a s a a r o ô id t rtwo men rld, ea mbi tiou rks a Public, w e experi col lectiv ts in ch sh s e s n h t n d a and perfo ich tra ce pre e new the visua ow's exh nds feat n rman uring conta ibi tio l arts ces. sformed n sec , offe cts in leadi Art B to ng the a ring v isi tor rs spotlig gal lerie rt wo tend asel in M s fr s new ht ance r i l a d m . over of 75 i B eac ideas the lates om arou l a h , nd td , new the w st year 000 ov , whos inspi evelop. ratio Euro orld – a Over 14 er the fiv e Lead P n s a pe, A 0 e sia a wel l as r museum show da rtner is U n e B y d n an s, S, ow emer The e ging ned privd institut a seven p attracted conv vent als ion g mark ate c an a o e ro ercent ets – o tnewe rsations provide atten llectors fr ups from increase d st ar w o h om t ded ppor ich r a c tistic r os the s h pract each fa tunities how. e Americ s Art B r ices as, for n beyond for you t stron asel Miam o pa ow a the c g i d r B n l a em e e newe d int o the nvas, as y with ot st ar and andach confi h tistic rms futur live Q p r o t v &A’s ers in tend h e, wa encie ides an i at highs discu of the deal q s. ssed oppo uality wo . rtuni ty to rk remain disco s in ver t he

Jepp

e He in

Lisso n

Film

Nigh

A r t B Miam asel i Be ac h By Sa

manth

178 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

a Ra

mos

Crown Point Press Bonakdar

Karma International

Aaron Curry

K Lelong

Gagosian

Photo courtesy of Art Basel

Richard Long

HellyNahmad

Film Screening

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 179

Photo courtesy of WORLD RED EYE

ANIMA DOMUS15TH ANNIVERSARY

Italian furniture showroom Anima Domus celebrated its 15th anniversary at the company’s new space in the Miami Design District on December 5th, 2013. The event brought together five esteemed contemporary furniture brands from Italy, Cierre Imbottiti, CLEI, Fiam Italia, Porada and Presotto Italia, as well as Swedish designer rug brand Henzel Studio, who commemorated the U.S. launch of their new Diamond Dust / Nordic Raw collection. To complement the designs, artist and expert winemaker Bret Lopez created a temporary installation of his large-scale photography. Of the artworks on display, one was raffled during the event with proceeds of the ticket sales donated directly to Children’s Bereavement Center.

Anima Domus Owners Marconi and Sylvia Naziazeni welcomed guests including Consul General of Italy Adolfo Barattolo, South Beach Wine & Food Festival founder Lee Schrager, Dr. Ricardo Restrepo, President of Miami’s Italian Chamber of Commerce Gianluca Fontani, CLEI Owner Luca Colombo, Designers and Owners of Henzel Studio Calle and Asa Henzel, Presotto Italia Director Fabio Vettorel, Cierre Imbottiti’s General Manager Gianmaria Conficconi, Son of Porada founder Roberto Allievi and Commercial Director of Porada Mauro Nastri.

Anima Domus was founded in 1998 by husband and wife, Marconi and Silvia Naziazeni, who turned from a small family operation into Miami’s supreme destination for high-end contemporary Italian home furnishings. Ranging from conception of layouts, elevations, and customized 3D drawings, to site visits and the final installation of furniture in a selection of designer materials, Anima Domus is a full service company. With its emphasis on understanding the needs of individual clients and catering specifically to those needs, Anima Domus has become a leading resource for interior furnishings in South Florida. Anima Domus extends special consideration for the trade, offering services including project development, fabric selection, custom wall units, space saving solutions and closet development that are geared uniquely towards facilitating an easier purchasing process for its trade clients. Anima Domus is located in Aventura at 18245 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura, FL 33160. (305) 705-9975 Anima Domus is located in the Design District at 101 NE 40th Street, Miami, FL 33137. (305) 576-9088

www.animadomus.com FOCUS of SWFL 2014 181

Artist Gallery

Godgifu - by Le Vuong Gold Rush - by MichaelO

MOHAWK ART - by Andreas Franke 182 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Paradise - by Mary Taglieri

Escape Familiar Home - by Tony Myles

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 183

Child’s painting auctioned at Wine Fest event

A love of racing games and Hot Wheels cars were the inspiration for the artwork created by nine-year-old Jay Aponte, child artist for the 2014 Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest. His original watercolor and pencil painting will be auctioned at the Wine Fest Grand Tasting and Auction Saturday, Feb. 22. Jay is a frequent visitor to Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, having been diagnosed with leukemia in December 2011. Aponte’s mother, Luz Aponte, suspected something was wrong with her son on Christmas Day, 2011. “He just wasn’t the person I knew; the little boy running around, expecting presents for Christmas. Christmas Day was not a good day.” The following morning, she took Aponte to an urgent care facility. By then, he had developed red spots on his legs. The doctor wanted to run a blood test and after 45 minutes of waiting for the results, Mrs. Aponte was given the startling news. It was leukemia. She recalled, “The doctor told me to go directly to the Children’s Hospital in Fort Myers. He said do not go home, but go there now. I was scared, but that’s what we did.” After additional tests confirmed the diagnosis, Jay began treatment. Although a frightening situation, Mrs. Aponte was thankful it happened when it did. She and her family had just returned from her home country of Columbia, South America. She couldn’t help but wonder what would have happened had he fallen ill while there, “I’m sure they have wonderful doctors, but the health care system is just so much better here.” She added she is grateful to the staff at Golisano Children’s Hospital for making her feel at ease. “I thank God for the people that received me that day. They have made me feel like everything was going to be okay since that very first moment. The nurses are fantastic and treat us like we’re part of a big family. I don’t have the words to thank them enough for everything they’ve done for us.” The road has not always been an easy one for Jay, admits his mother. Last year was especially tough for him emotionally. “He was very sad because he couldn’t do the same things he always had,” Mrs. Aponte explained. “He’s not able to be as active as he used to be, so he gets frustrated. He’s played soccer since he was three, so he really misses that.” However, she says he’s getting better and is more relaxed. “He’s a happy boy; funny and laughing.” He’s also back in school at Laurel Oak Elementary in Naples. After his diagnosis in the first grade, he missed the remainder of that year and much of second grade due to his illness. This year, he’s almost full time, which is a big step. Being chosen as the child artist for the Wine Fest was a terrific surprise for Jay and one that helped lift his spirits. “When they told us he was going to do the painting, he said, ‘Oh mommy, I can do that because I’m very special, right?’ He was very happy.” Mrs. Aponte said Jay was especially excited to work with award-winning artist Ellen Sheppard of Fort Myers, who works with a Golisano Children’s Hospital patient each year on a creation representing his or her favorite things and favorite places, guiding them throughout the process. Jay calls Sheppard “a very special person.” 184 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Still in treatment, Jay takes medicine everyday and goes to the hospital every other week for blood work. Every 12 weeks, he receives chemotherapy and will continue treatment for another year and a half. Although it makes him tired, his mother says he’s doing great and he feels comfortable the moment he enters the Children’s Hospital. “When I go, it’s like I’m in a house,” Jay says. “I have so much support there. It’s not a scary place.” Of course, for him, the best part is when he’s done and he gets to go to the gaming room. Racing and adventure games are his noted favorites. With inspiring stories like Jay’s, it’s no wonder that the children’s artwork is typically one of the highest bid lots of the Wine Fest. The 2013 watercolor, by Ella Sterling, inspired 24 donors to raise $135,000. The original pieces have been donated back to the hospital by bidders and are featured on a wall in the hospital named in memory of Jerry Schmoyer, a long-time supporter of the Wine Fest who lost his battle with cancer two years ago. The Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest is a two-day event that begins with dinners featuring select vintners and local chefs in private homes from Fort Myers to Naples Friday, Feb. 21, and concludes with a Grand Tasting and Auction the following day, Saturday, Feb. 22 at Miromar Lakes Beach & Golf Club. The festival is organized by SWFL Children’s Charities Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides funding to local children’s causes, and has raised more than $8.9 million over the last five years. The primary beneficiary is Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, which is scheduled to open in 2017 at HealthPark Medical Center in South Fort Myers. The state-of-the-art family-center children’s hospital will provide new and expanded pediatric medical services and subspecialty services to children from Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties. The Wine Fest also helps support the Edison State College Pediatric Nursing Program and Florida Gulf Coast University’s music therapy program at the Bower School of Music. Title sponsor of the 2014 event is SKANSKA GATES. Additional sponsors include FineMark National Bank & Trust, LTC Global, Sam Galloway Ford Lincoln, Private Client Insurance Services, Home-Tech and Investors’ Security Trust Company. In-kind sponsors are Miromar Lakes Beach & Golf Club, Palm Printing/Printers Ink, Angelina’s Ristorante, Jason’s Deli and Norman Love Confections. For Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest information, contact SWFL Children’s Charities Inc. at 239-513-7990.

www.swflwinefest.org

ART

The

of Brandon Gould

By David Burne

Brandon Gould a.k.a. Im_possibleman is a very well-known artist who invites his style in many other avenues in life. He has worked with Victor Rossi, a couture house and have made clothes for Miss Maryland 2007 and 2010. With great local seamstresses, he had developed great shades of womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wear; including for plus sized females. In his leisure time, he chooses to meet new people, play video games with them, and usually party. A lifetime artist, many call his work "anime". The name of his art style is Violin. It is infused with the heart of gaming, the power of heavy metal, and the beauty of life. Growing up on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, he refined his skills inventively. Now, as a fashion designer for womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wear, he brings into life, the life of Violin. FOCUS of SWFL 2014 185

Creating Great Events By Chef Roberta

If you want be at the top of mind with your guests and media; create an “event” production from the moment your guests arrive. The successful ingredients include the theme and overall design look that has visual elements, entertaining food and the right amount of festive atmosphere. Here is how our event planners create those events, while keeping an eye on the budget. The Theme is the message or idea at the will be carried throughout the event. It may be a single topic, a destination, a period of time, or newest “hot” list, It can be subtle or over the top. The most important aspect is that all of the elements communicate the same theme. With a cohesive theme, your guests enter into a visual world from the moment that they receive the invitation to the last goodbye that creates and sustains an underlying buzz.

irst “use what you got”. Start with the selection of a venue with the theme in mind, instead of the “how much” criteria. For example, does your local country club have a “Gone with Wind” ambiance with big Southern pillars and the grandeur of 2nd story winding staircases? A Great Gatsby theme is perfect for a local

186 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Train Depot. Historical churches and museums have magnificent Spanish courtyards. Botanical parks can easily be converted to tropical oasis. More importantly, if your venue enhances your theme, your budget can be reallocated for the entertainment and food. Secondly, rethink the entertainment and music and when it is scripted into the event. A few trends that we see are the TV Reality genre which is driving themes to be more genuine. So instead of following the traditional cocktail hour, dinner, dancing drill, add an entertainment script so your guests feel that they are part of the show from the moment they arrive. Instead of a 10 person orchestra for the cocktail hour, consider a violin quartet (the music script) with strolling violists (the entertainment script). Add a cappella choir to greet your guests with additional singers who stroll through the cocktail hour. Consider Tango or Salsa dance troupes that mingle and dance to the background of a Spanish band. Create a visual media documentary with plasma screens and techno rock music and create small flash mobs with character actors. Add interactive scripts with living statutes, palm readers, airbrush tattoo artists and photo cutout stations.

You can also just create a “menu nod” to the theme. For our 9.11 Tribute to Heroes luncheon for Manatee County Emergency Operations, we created an American Parfait for dessert, white chocolate mousse with raspberries and blueberries, but served in contemporary parfait cups. Finally, the catering staff can be dressed in theme appropriate costumes. At the All Children’s Hospital Annual fund raiser, our strolling waiters were costumed in Moroccan shirts and fez caps to compliment the Casa Blanca theme. We utilized serving trays that were tiled mirrors and diamond shaped crystals for that Moroccan theme. By choosing the right venue, utilizing scripted entertainment and adding themed menus, your event will be a success, that night and for a long time afterwards!

Finally, select a caterer that can create themed menus that will spike your guests’ enthusiasm throughout the entire event. A menu theme is based upon complimentary ingredients for that period of time, the genre, the geographical area and the culture, and fits within our contemporary palettes. We recreated the first class passengers menu for the Titanic opening exhibition. On April 14, 1912, the passengers dined on a ten course dinner including Consumme Olga, poached salmon with mousseline, lamb with mint sauce and pate de fois gras. To keep within the confines of the theme and insure that all of the guests ate, we recreated these classics. The Consumme Olga (boiled veal stock) was converted to pan seared scallops with a brown butter drizzle.. The salmon mousseline became grilled salmon lollipops served with horseradish crème fraiche. The lamb with mint sauce was served with a mint and cranberry relish;. Pate de fois gras was served with pan seared apple Confit. This menu kept the buzz alive, the foodies were ecstatic and the cohesiveness of the theme kept the buzz alive. Another catering concept is the food preparation that is a performance itself. For the MD Anderson Cancer benefit, the Old Florida cuisines included a Low Country boil, carving stations for BBQ ribs and a live oyster shucking bar. The guests were able to interact with the chefs in action. Another idea is to consider adding a different method of cooking, for example, a wood burning fire pit that cooks food in a novel way that will fascinate your guests.

We are a contemporary, full service catering and event design company. We offer services for large galas (over 1,000) to intimate parties of 50, from Naples to Tampa Bay. Milan Catering has won several awards over the years and Hot List for Tampa Bay, as well as recipients of the Brides Choice awards from Martha Stewart’s Wedding Wire that represent the top 5% nationwide in wedding professionals. We are approved caterers at the finest Tampa, St. Pete and Sarasota venues. Contact us at 941.312.0000

www.MilanCatering.com FOCUS of SWFL 2014 187

Photo courtesy of Thinkstock

Pots Past Their Prime?

Family Features

Mealtime can be a daily challenge no matter the size of your household. Part of that challenge can be having the right cookware. More than simply tools in the kitchen, cookware is a way to enjoy the process of cooking and bring family and friends together. The notion of upgrading your cookware may be far from mind, but having the right pot or pan will keep family and friends coming back for more. A recent survey concludes that most Americans own a piece of cookware that is approximately 17 years old. This survey also reveals that three out of 10 Americans admits to not knowing how to properly gauge the wear and tear of their cookware. When you know how to properly evaluate your cookware, you’ll have confidence in your supplies, making the process of cooking even more rewarding.

Step One: Check Your Cookware Look at your pots and pans to assess the wear and tear of each. Check for signs of chipping, rusting, or warping that may affect the performance. Flip it over and look at the bottom to see if it is burned, which could affect how the pot or pan heats. Also, check the handles and lids to see if they are bent or missing. Step Two: Test It Out Once you’ve checked the condition of your cookware, it’s time to test it out. Chipping, rusting, and warping can affect the cooking or cleanup performance of your pots and pans. Be sure to test your cookware to ensure these flaws are only cosmetic. If your cookware is nonstick, a good test is to fry an egg – if it sticks to your pan then it is likely time to buy yourself a replacement.

Step Three: Reevaluate Your Needs Once you’ve reviewed and tested your cookware, you can decide what you should keep, what to reinvest in and what you need to recycle. Start by asking yourself how often you cook, how much do you cook, and do you find yourself needing different sizes and shapes of pans while cooking? A good rule of thumb when looking for new cookware is to look for pots and pans that are branded by manufacturers with a long track record, such as those which carry the DuPont™ Teflon® brand logo. Finally, it’s important to feel the cookware in your own hands. Visit your local retail store and pick them up. Find out if the handles feel comfortable, the weight is good – and if you love the color and style. Most of your favorite retail stores have great selections to meet your needs.

www.NothingMessesWithIt.com

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 189

The Lucini Italia Company was founded by Renee Frigo and Daniel Graeff on the philosophy that great tasting food comes from only the most cared-for, high-quality ingredients. Our passion is creating authentic, handcrafted gourmet foods inspired by the culinary traditions of Italy.

By Meagan Parrado

Arugula Salad with Walnuts, Apples and Fig Balsamic Reduction

Prepared in small batches using 100% natural ingredients, Lucini Italia products offer both exceptional taste and culinary performance. Our work with small regional farmers, celebrated chefs, and health and wellness experts continues to provide our customers with an unmatched selection of ingredients, gourmet recipes, quality-assurance and convenience. Meeting the demands of both home and professional chefs, the Lucini Italia family of products includes award-winning extra virgin olive oils, artisan vinegars, gourmet tomato and cheese sauces, savory soups and a special collection of limited production organic items.

Serves 4 – 5 For the reduction: 1/2 cup Lucini® Savory Fig Balsamico

Instructions:

For the vinaigrette: 1/2 cup Lucini® Extra Virgin Olive Oil 3 tbsp Lucini® Pinot Grigio Italian Wine Vinegar

Pour the balsamic vinegar in a small sauce pot over high heat. Whisk briskly, even prior to boiling. Once it starts boiling, keep whisking constantly to prevent burning. Continue until the sauce reduces by half and is of a syrupy consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.

For the salad: 6 cups arugula 2 cups chopped endive 2 Fuji apples, unpeeled, cored, thinly sliced 6 ounces Spanish Manchego cheese, shaved 1 1/2 cups pitted dates, sliced 1 cup roasted walnuts 4 large shallots, minced 190 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Whisk oil and Pinot Grigio vinegar in bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Toss arugula, endive, apples, half of cheese, dates, walnuts, and shallots in large bowl with enough vinaigrette to coat. Season salad with salt and pepper. Mound salad in center of each plate. Drizzle balsamic syrup around salads. Sprinkle remaining cheese atop salads.

Slow Roasted Halibut with Porcini and Barolo Sauce Serves 4 Slow Roasted Halibut 1 1/2 tbsp Lucini® Extra Virgin Olive Oil 4 halibut fillets, about 6 ounces each, skinned ¼ cup dry white wine Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Preheat the oven to 300F Add the olive oil to a shallow baking dish. Place the fish fillets in the baking dish and turn to coat them. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Spoon the wine around the fish. Bake until the fish just flakes, about 20 minutes. Top with sauce below and serve immediately. Porcini and Barolo Sauce 1.5 oz dried Porcini mushrooms 1 tbsp Lucini® Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1/3 cup minced shallots ½ tsp red chili flakes 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 tbsp minced fresh thyme or 2 tsp dried thyme 2 tbsp fresh Italian parsley, minced 1/3 lb crimini mushrooms sliced thin ½ cup Barolo wine or dry red wine 2 cups Lucini® Organic Whole Tuscan Plum Tomatoes, pureed in a blender Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Visit www.lucini.com for more recipes Instructions: Place dried mushrooms in a bowl and cover with boiling water. Leave mushrooms to rehydrate (about 15-20 minutes). Coat the bottom of a heavy bottom skillet with olive oil, sauté the shallots and chili flakes until soft. Add garlic and thyme and sauté for a few more minutes, however don’t let garlic brown. Add crimini mushrooms and salt and pepper. After some of the moisture has started to sweat out of the mushrooms, about 5 minutes, add the wine and let reduce in half. Remove the dried mushrooms from soaking liquid with a slotted spoon and reserve liquid. Rough chop the mushrooms and add to the sauté pan. Pour the mushroom water into the sauté pan straining through a fine sieve or cheese cloth. When the liquid has evaporated by 1/3 add the tomatoes. Cook tomatoes for approximately 5 minutes and finish with Italian parsley. FOCUS of SWFL 2014 191

Lemon Roasted Chicken with Potatoes and Herbs Serves 4 – 6 2 lbs chicken legs, thighs and breasts, bone in and skin on ¼ cup Lucini® Delicate Lemon Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut in long strips 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 large onion, sliced 1 tbsp oregano ¼ cup parsley, chopped 1 Meyer lemon, sliced into pieces Lucini® Extra Virgin Olive Oil Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste

Visit www.lucini.com for more recipes Instructions: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In a large bowl, cover the chicken with the lemon infused olive oil and work around with your hands to fully coat the chicken. Remove chicken from bowl and place on a paper towel. Salt and pepper both sides of the chicken. Sprinkle half of the Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Coat the bottom of a large casserole or baking dish with olive oil and place the chicken in skin side up. Add the potato strips and onion, covering the chicken. Add chopped herbs and remaining cheese. Generously coat with olive oil and mix around to ensure everything is coated. Add the lemon slices through out the dish and pour a ¼ cup of water in each corner of the dish. Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 90 minutes. Turn potatoes and chicken every 20 minutes or so. Serve with a drizzle of lemon infused olive oil.

192 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Eat

Hearty &

Healthy

By Keri Glassman, MS, RD

By choosing the right ingredients and having inspirational recipes on hand, you can use food to comfort both your mind and body

The expression “you are what you eat” doesn’t mean if you eat a carrot, you ARE a carrot but the popular slogan certainly rings true in that eating healthy, nutritious foods can help lead to a healthy, well-functioning body that performs its best. The following cheat sheet of “superfoods,” taken from Keri Glassman’s DiseasePreventing Recipe Collection, are items to look for at the grocery store. With the exception of lean sirloin, all of these ingredients are low in saturated fat and cholesterol and most are chock full of nutrients that may help keep your body in peak condition, fight off infections and prevent chronic diseases. In a country where obesity and type 2 diabetes rates are skyrocketing and cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death, having a healthy lifestyle with foods like these is more important than ever.

“Superfoods”

Brown Rice Brown rice doesn’t just differ from white rice in color – it has greater health benefits as a whole grain with more fiber, vitamins and minerals, such as iron and magnesium. Dietary fiber has been shown to reduce blood cholesterol levels, which may help lower the risk of heart disease.

Chicken Breast The leanest part of a chicken, a skinless chicken breast has roughly 24 grams of complete protein, less than 1 gram of saturated fat and less cholesterol than most other meats. Chicken also contains iron, B vitamins and the trace mineral selenium.

Brussels Sprouts This true powerhouse is a good source of fiber, vitamins C and K, folate, potassium and calcium. At only 56 calories per cup, Brussels sprouts also contain many phytochemicals, which studies show may reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.

Chickpeas Also known as garbanzo beans and the main ingredient in hummus, chickpeas have a low glycemic index, which means they won’t raise blood sugar levels significantly. They’re also a source of protein, folate, manganese and fiber, which aids in digestive and colon health.

Canola Oil With the least saturated fat and most omega-3 fat of all cooking oils, canola oil delivers on heart health. It is free of trans fat and cholesterol, a good source of vitamins E and K, and contains plant sterols. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized a qualified health claim for canola oil on its potential to reduce the risk of heart disease when used in place of saturated fat.

Halibut This white, thick fish is the largest of all saltwater fishes. It is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fat, which may help protect the heart. Halibut is also a source of B vitamins, potassium and magnesium.

Carrots These colorful root vegetables are fat-free with few calories and lots of fiber. Carrots contain vitamin C as well as carotenoids like beta-carotene, which studies have linked to reduced risk of heart disease. 194 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Lemon-Walnut Chicken & Spiced Kale Chips Lemon combines with tarragon, white wine and black pepper to give zest to chicken breasts for a terrific everyday meal. Walnuts add crunch and, along with canola oil, is among the best sources of plant-based omega-3 fat. Yield: 4 servings. Serving Size: 1 chicken breast. Spiced Kale Chips

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1/4 tsp pepper 2 tsp canola oil, divided 1 large shallot, chopped 1 Tbsp cornstarch 1 cup low-sodium, fat-free chicken broth 1/2 cup white wine 2 fresh lemons, juiced 2 Tbsp lemon zest 1 tsp tarragon 1/4 tsp black pepper 1/4 tsp granulated sugar 4 fresh lemon wheels 1/4 cup chopped walnuts

Yield: 4 servings. Serving Size: 1/4 cup.

Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 400 °F. 2. Sprinkle chicken breast with pepper. In large, non-stick sauté pan, heat 1 tsp canola oil over high heat and pan sear chicken for 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Then roast chicken in oven for 25 minutes until cooked. 3. In same sauté pan, heat remaining 1 tsp canola oil over medium-high heat. Add shallots and sauté 3-5 minutes until golden. Add cornstarch and stir until incorporated. Add chicken broth, wine, lemon juice and zest, tarragon, pepper and sugar and cook about 5 minutes, stirring often. 4. Transfer chicken to serving platter, pour sauce over it and top with walnuts and lemon wheels. Serve with Spiced Kale Chips. 196 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Kale is the new rock star in the produce aisle – it’s packed with vitamins and minerals and tastes great to boot. These baked “chips” will even appeal to kids. Canola oil aids in the absorption of kale’s fat-soluble vitamins. 1 small bunch kale, stems removed and sliced into 1/2-inch strips 1 Tbsp canola oil 4 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 400° F. 2. In large bowl, combine kale, canola oil and garlic, tossing to coat. Season with salt, black pepper and cayenne. Transfer to small baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, tossing once halfway through.

Vegetarian Portobello Mushroom Stack Over Quinoa This colorful, earthy dish offers a medley of powerhouse ingredients from protein-rich quinoa and chickpeas to vitamin-dense portobello mushrooms and red pepper. Canola oil’s light texture complements other ingredients without weighing them down.

Quinoa: 1 tsp canola oil 1/4 large sweet onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed 1 tsp cumin 2 cup low-sodium vegetable broth Mushroom Stack: 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1/2 tsp dried thyme 2 Tbsp sherry wine vinegar 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar 1 Tbsp canola oil 1 red pepper, cored and sliced lengthwise 4 portobello mushrooms, stems removed and rinsed 1 cup cooked chickpeas 1/2 Tbsp canola oil 1 large sweet onion, sliced into half moons 1/4 tsp salt

Visit www.canolainfo.org for healthy recipes Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 350° F. To prepare quinoa, in 2-quart saucepan, heat canola oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté 2-3 minutes. Add quinoa and cumin, sauté another minute. Add vegetable broth and bring to boil. Cover pan, reduce heat to low and simmer 10-15 minutes until liquid is absorbed. 2. To prepare mushroom stack, in small bowl, whisk garlic, thyme, sherry and balsamic vinegars and 1 Tbsp canola oil. Dip red pepper slices in marinade and place on small baking sheet. Dip each mushroom in marinade, coating both sides, and place on half of large, parchment-lined baking sheet. Toss chickpeas in remaining marinade and place on other half of large baking sheet. Bake all 30 minutes, turning mushrooms and red pepper and tossing chickpeas once halfway through. 3. Set mushrooms and red peppers aside and add chickpeas to cooked quinoa. 4. In large sauté pan, heat 1/2 Tbsp canola oil over medium-high heat, add sliced onions and toss to coat with oil. Cook 7-8 minutes, sprinkle with pinch of salt and cook 10-12 minutes longer, stirring frequently until caramelized (onions will be a rich brown and smell sweet). 5. To serve, place 1 cup quinoa on each plate, top with one portobello mushroom (gill side down), three or four slices red pepper and caramelized onion. FOCUS of SWFL 2014 197

MOBILE Go to FOCUSOFSWFL.com on your mobile device. Regional information at your fingertips!

Le Macaron The macaron, perfected in France, has a long history dating back centuries in Europe. Macarons are small round cakes that fit in the palm of your hand. They are lightly crisp on the outside, smooth and creamy in the center, filled with ganache (chocolate), rich cream, home-made fruit jams or other quality ingredients. Each season and month, new flavors will be introduced to complement the collection. Dine in or take - out, gift boxes, favor boxes, and custom orders are available. Like more information please contact: 941.552.8872.

www.lemacaron-us.com 382 St Armands Circle Sarasota, FL

Audrey's Jamaican Cuisine

4463-D Ashton Rd Sarasota, FL 34233 941-928-3309 www.audreysrumcakes.com

iPad, iPhone, Android, BlackBerry and web enabled mobile device

where yo u live a nd w o rk ; i t is w h o yo u a re. S ervice-provider fees may apply. Availabili ty va ries by phone/network.

A simple way to indulge yourself!

Kale The new rock star in the produce aisle, kale has several nutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammator properties. It contains vitamins C, E and K plus beta-carotene; thiamin, riboflavin and folate; iron and magnesium; fiber and phytochemicals that may help ward off chronic diseases. Portobello Mushrooms One serving of these delicious, large brown mushrooms contains only 42 calories and 1 gram of fat. Portobellos are a source of protein, fiber, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6 and folate. They are also mineral moguls with magnesium, zinc, manganese, phosphorus and potassium. Quinoa A rediscovered ancient “grain” (it’s technically a vegetable relative) native to South America, quinoa is rich in protein, with all nine amino acids, and a good source of fiber. It also contains riboflavin, magnesium, phosphorus and manganese. A satisfying complex carbohydrate, dieters love quinoa – vegans also love it as a non-dairy source of calcium. Red Peppers Raw and cooked red bell peppers are not only nice to look at from the outside, they are great for you inside. They contain beta-carotene and vitamins B6, C, E and K. In addition, red peppers are among few foods that have lycopene, which has antioxidant properties. Sirloin, Lean Besides being mouth-watering, a slice of 95 percent lean sirloin has about 24 grams of protein with only 2.5 grams of saturated fat. It is also rich in iron and contains various amino acids, B vitamins, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc. Trim off any visible fat and skin before preparing for maximum health benefits.

Did You Know? Brussels sprouts, canola and kale are related; they all belong to the Brassica family of plants. Sweet Potatoes These colorful taters are sweet on health with their beta-carotene; vitamins B6 and K; and minerals, including calcium, potassium, copper and manganese. Tofu Long a staple in vegetarian diets, tofu has finally made it mainstream. This food is low in calories and fat and a great source of soy protein, which may reduce cholesterol levels. Tofu also offers a medley of minerals, including iron, magnesium, phosphorus and copper. Tomatoes In addition to containing almost no fat and plenty of vitamin C, tomatoes contain beta-carotene plus vitamins B6, E and K; thiamin, niacin and folate; fiber; and iron, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, potassium and manganese. They also are a rich source of lycopene.

Spinach Popeye had it right: spinach rocks. Low in calories and high in vitamins, this leafy green is one of the most nutrient-dense foods you can put in your mouth. It has beta-carotene, folate, vitamin K, iron, calcium and magnesium.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 199

Family Features

t’s easy to share in the fun of Valentine’s Day by serving those you love sweet treats that are a healthier alternative to ordinary, heart-shaped confections. Forget the expensive flowers, wines and chocolates. To really show you care, be a cupid and give your sweetie healthy, delicious treats that feature juicy water melon. Naturally dressed in the holiday’s hue of vibrant red, using this fabulous fruit in recipes adds color to the spread of any Valentine’s Day party, whether large or intimate.

Mouthwatering watermelon treats

Hearts love watermelon

Beyond adding color and variety to your family’s diet, watermelon has other great benefits. Here are a couple of these heart-healthy reasons: n Fresh watermelon is certified by the American Heart Association’s Heart Checkmark program as being low in saturated fat and cholesterol. n Watermelon is the primary source of an amino acid called citrulline found in fruits and vege tables. Citrulline can help maintain blood flow within the heart and cardiovascular function.

For an elegant, upscale treat, serve Watermelon Petit Fours, which feature sweet watermelon, candied almonds and is topped with your favorite decadent frosting. Get the kids in the kitchen with Watermelon Cupcakes for a new take on the beloved classic. Served with pineapple cream cheese frosting, kids will love helping you decorate these darling delights. If you really want to make their hearts skip a beat, carve an adorable Lips and Love Basket. Fill it with all of your sweetie’s favorite fruits for a fresh, flavorful display they’ll devour in a heartbeat. Remember, nothing shows your love more than edible gifts crafted by hand. For more sweet ideas, visit www.watermelon.org.

Watermelon Cupcakes

Yield: 8 servings 8 cupcake liners 8 cupcake shaped pieces of seedless watermelon 2 cups pineapple cream cheese frosting Sprinkles for garnish Place liners in 8-cup cupcake tin. Cut 3-inch-thick slices of seedless water melon. Cut round cupcake-sized pieces from slices. Put watermelon cupcake in each liner. Place dollop of frosting on each cupcake. Decorate as desired with sprinkles.

Bonus benefits

Your sweetie will love that they can indulge in the sweetness of the holiday without the guilt or inflated waistline caused by traditional Valentine’s Day treats. A naturally low-calorie option, watermelon also boasts the following benefits: n Vitamin A: Known to enhance eye health and boost immunity by enhancing the infection-fighting actions of white blood cells. n Vitamin B6: Helps the immune system produce antibodies which fight diseases. n Vitamin C: Boosts the immune system’s defenses against infections and viruses. It also protects the body from harmful free radicals which accelerate aging. 200 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Watermelon Petit Fours Yield: 12 servings Photo courtesy of Getty Images

12 (3-inch) cubes of seedless watermelon 3/4 cup frosting 12 candied almonds Sugar in the Raw, for sprinkling Arrange watermelon cubes on serving platter. Place frosting in zipper bag and trim off bit of one bottom corner. Decoratively pipe frosting onto each watermelon cube. Place almond at top of frosting on each petit four. Sprinkle with raw sugar and serve immediately.

Balanced Eating Routine Family Features

Sometimes even the smallest changes can offer big results to your overall well-being. When maintaining or pursuing a healthful eating routine, adopting a balanced approach is essential for success. Rather than restricting yourself, strive instead to make small steps toward a healthier lifestyle. A few simple changes to your daily routine can eventually turn into lasting habits that are far more enjoyable and easier to maintain. As an expert on the positive impact of small changes, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Keri Gans offers these helpful tips: Create a healthy eating schedule Food is fuel. In order to keep energized throughout the day it is important not to skip meals. Grab a midday snack, like The Laughing Cow Light White Cheddar flavor with whole grain crackers, to help you overcome that all too familiar late afternoon slump. These cheeses are a must-have for your January shopping lists. Eat the right kinds of fats A little healthy yet tasty fat, such as 1/4 of an avocado or a handful of almonds, can go a long way. It can provide flavor, satiety and be good for your body, especially your heart. Share food and good times with advance planning To help ensure healthier choices are made when dining out, be sure to grab a quick, tasty snack to tide you over before your meal.

Some great snacking options include a wedge of The Laughing Cow Light Creamy Swiss flavor with pear slices, a low-sugar granola bar or 1/4 cup of roasted edamame. The less hungry you are, the easier it is to stay on track. Enjoy the foods you are craving Want that slice of pizza or piece of chocolate? Go for it. To maintain a healthy and enjoyable lifestyle, try and eat well the majority of time, but make sure you leave room for some of your favorite indulgences. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t allow yourself to enjoy these foods on occasion, you might always be craving them, which can lead to overeating. Make savory swaps for old standbys It is never necessary to eliminate the flavors you love, instead learn to enjoy them in a healthier way. Are you in the mood for nachos but trying to eat a little better? Swap the high-fat cheese and greasy fried chips for a wedge of The Laughing Cow Light Queso Fresco & Chipotle with a serving of baked tortilla chips. With eight delicious varieties to choose from, this cheese is the perfect snack to satisfy your cravings in the New Year. So, enjoy all the flavors and fun of life by adopting a small-step approach toward eating well. Each tiny change is a step in the right direction to a happier, more satisfied you.

www.thelaughingcow.com FOCUS of SWFL 2014 201

tart where you stand and never mind the past, The past won’t help you in beginning new, If you have left it all behind at last Why, that’s enough, you’re done with it, you’re through; This is another chapter in the book, This is another race that you have planned, Don’t give the vanished days a backward look, Start where you stand.

Berton Braley

202 FOCUS of SWFL 2014