Naples Illustrated February 2023

Provident Jewelry has been family owned and operated since opening the door of our original location in West Palm Beach, Florida in 1993. Over the past 29 years, we have expanded to six locations in Florida becoming one of the most respected and trusted buyers and sellers of fine estate jewelry, rare gems and luxury timepieces in the country. Discover the perfection and professionalism offered by Provident Jewelry by visiting one of our exquisite showrooms in West Palm Beach, Naples, Jupiter, Fort Myers, Palm Beach, and Wellington.

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EVERY GREAT DESIGN BEGINS WITH AN EVEN BETTER STORY. YOURS.

Discover how our acclaimed design team creates bespoke luxury interior design solutions driven by the chapters of your life that inspire you. Schedule a complimentary personal Design Profile at our inspiration studio located in Mercato, Naples or at DWest.com.

The Most Legendary

For those who long for a home where captivating modern design and a stunning coastal location are just the beginning, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Naples redefines elegant Southwest Florida living. Endless Gulf views, white-sand beaches, a marina-front lagoon, curated amenities, and The Ritz-Carlton legendary service have all come together in one exclusive address limited to just 128 residences.

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Discover the waterfront home you have always craved, with graciously sized residences, penthouses, and grand penthouses, elegantly appointed interiors, rooftop retreats, and impeccable attention to detail.

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THE RITZ-CARLTON RESIDENCES, NAPLES ARE NOT OWNED, SOLD OR DEVELOPED BY THE RITZ-CARLTON HOTEL COMPANY, L.L.C. OR ITS AFFILIATES (“THE RITZ-CARLTON”). STOCK RESIDENCES, USES THE RITZ-CARLTON MARKS UNDER A LICENSE FROM THE RITZ-CARLTON, WHICH HAS NOT CONFIRMED THE ACCURACY OF ANY OF THE STATEMENTS OR REPRESENTATIONS MADE HEREIN. ORAL REPRESENTATION CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS REFERENCE SHOULD BE MADE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY THE DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. ALL RENDERINGS AND PLANS ARE PROPOSED CONCEPTS SHOWN ONLY FOR MARKETING PURPOSES AND ARE BASED ON THE DEVELOPER’S CURRENT PRELIMINARY DEVELOPMENT PLAN. DEVELOPER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY, REVISE OR WITHDRAW THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT PLAN IN DEVELOPER’S SOLE DISCRETION WITHOUT NOTICE. NOTHING HEREIN OR ANY OTHER COMMUNICATION SHALL BE DEEMED TO OBLIGATE THE DEVELOPER, OR ANY AFFILIATE OF DEVELOPER, TO CONSTRUCT THE PROJECT OR OFFER ANY OF THE PROJECT FOR SALE, AND NOTHING HEREIN SHALL BE DEEMED A GUARANTY OF ANY KIND. THIS IS NOT AN OFF ER TO SALE OR SOLICITATIONS OF OFFERS TO BUY.

Owners at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Naples will discover the ultimate meaning of time well spent with inspired dining and multiple state-of-the-art entertainment offerings at The Vanderbilt Club, elite concierge services, total mind-body relaxation at the Spa, upscale outdoor fun, private rooftop clubs and lounges, and impeccable service unmatched on Naples’ Gulf shores.

in Naples

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Naples Now offering Pre-Construction Pricing Residences from $2.5 million.

Sales Gallery now open 2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road Suite 106 Naples, Florida 34109 Phone 239-249-6260 RCRNaples.com

WONDER OUTSIDE, WONDER INSIDE

Welcome to a rare life within nature, nurtured by legendary service. With a private lagoon and aquatic preserve in your backyard. The Saltleaf marina and golf course in your neighborhood. And hospitality that frees you to enjoy it all. Select residences available from $2.8M, by London Bay Development. Sales gallery open daily.

NEW WATERFRONT LIVING IN SW FLORIDA

5000 Coconut Rd, Bonita Springs, FL 34134

TheResidencesEsteroBay.com | 239.788.0155

The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Estero Bay are not owned, sold or developed by The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. or its affiliates (“The Ritz-Carlton”). LB Estero Bay Investments, LLC uses The Ritz-Carlton marks under a license from The Ritz-Carlton, which has not confirmed the accuracy of any of the statements or representations made herein.

Where Talent Comes Naturally

Every client is unique and deserves personalized advice

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By Gaylene Salomons

Naples National Golf Club, one of many

from course designer Dana Fry

FEBRUARY 16th

5:30pm Parish Hall Reception with French Chamber Music

6:15pm Mélodie & Motown - Concert on the Waterfront

Stephanie Gilmore –Sally Fitzgibbons –Kelly Slater

Robert

of the

Advisors

MANAGEMENT

Let a professional manage all aspects of maintenance, service and finance. A lifestyle once exclusive to billionaires and beyond your wildest dreams can be a reality. Your global passport to yachting privilege and service is here.

Publisher Meegan Wyatt

Editor in Chief Jane E. Enos

Creative Director Olga M. Gustine Executive Editor Mary Murray

Senior Editor Allison Wolfe Reckson

Associate Editor Gaylene Salomons

Copy Editor Kelley Marcellus

Dining Editor Gina Birch

Fashion Editor Katherine Lande

Automotive Editor Howard Walker

Travel Editor Paul Rubio

Web Editor Abigail Duffy

Social Media Manager Roxy Rooney

DESIGN

Senior Art Director Ashley Meyer

Art Directors Airielle Farley, Jenny Fernandez-Prieto Digital Imaging Specialist Leonor Alvarez-Maza

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Cathy Chestnut, Karen Feldman, Tammy Fender, Patricia Janeway, Erika Klein, Ivey Leidy, Judy Martel, Liza Grant Smith, Seth Soffian, Mary Thurman Yuhas

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kent Anderson, Audrey Snow Owen, Venjhamin Reyes, RIOCAM, Heidi Schumann, Nick Shirghio

SOCIAL PHOTOGRAPHERS

Barbz Gomez, Charlie McDonald, Jim Sernovitz, Helen Werner

ADVERTISING

Account Managers Kathleen Beuttel, 239-298-7506, kbeuttel@naplesillustrated.com; Melissa Zolin Schwartz, 561-472-1922, mschwartz@palmbeachmedia.com; Deidre Wade, 561-472-1902, dwade@palmbeachmedia.com

Marketing Manager Rebecca Desir

PRODUCTION

Production Director Selene M. Ceballo

Production Manager Lourdes Linares

Digital Pre-Press Specialist George Davis

Advertising Design Coordinators Anaely J. Perez Vargas, Jeffrey Rey

Production Coordinator Ileana Caban

Digital Marketing Manager Tyler Sansone

OPERATIONS

Office Administrator, Naples Pamela Schultz

Accounting Specialist Mary Beth Cook

Accounts Receivable Specialist Ana Coronel

Distribution Manager Judy Heflin

Logistics Manager Omar Morales

Circulation Manager Marjorie Leiva

Circulation Assistant Britney Stinson

Circulation Promotions Manager David Supple IT Manager Keith Gonzalez

SUBSCRIPTIONS 800-308-7346

Group Publisher Terry Duffy Editorial Director Daphne Nikolopoulos Chief Operating Officer Todd Schmidt

In Memoriam Ronald J. Woods (1935-2013)

HOUR MEDIA, LLC

CEO Stefan Wanczyk President John Balardo

Naples Illustrated 3066 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 102, Naples, FL 34103 • 239-434-6966 • Fax: 239-435-0409

Naples Illustrated is a registered trademark of Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC • Corporate Headquarters: P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL 33480 naplesillustrated.com

OUR ADVISORY BOARD

VICKI BAKER

UBS Private Wealth Management, executive team assistant

ASHLEY DEWJI

J.P. Morgan, vice president and private banker

SHELLY STAYER

CHAIRWOMAN

Johnsonville Foods, president/co-owner

CHAD JENSEN

Method & Concept, CEO/creative director

SHAWN MCCONNELL

NCH Healthcare, marketing and communications director

CLAUDINE LEGER-WETZEL

Stock Development, vice president, sales and marketing

Celebrity Martini Glass Auction, founder

DONNA MCGINNIS

Naples Botanical Garden, president and CEO

MICHAEL WYNN

Sunshine Ace Hardware, president

BRENDA MELTON

At Kalea Bay, we have a different perspective on what constitutes “a balanced diet.” To us, it’s a healthy dose of friends and family. One that’s spent relaxing in chic, sophisticated residences. With outdoor living showcasing glorious views of the Gulf of Mexico. In and around the rooftop pool or our resort Clubhouse. Find your version of a balanced diet. Only at Kalea Bay.

The Ultimate Escape with

Valentine

foreign transactions conducted outside the continental United States. 4. Specialty Checks. Restrictions on style and quantity may apply. 5. Premier Checking Bonus Information. This Premier Checking account bonus offer is valid for new accounts opened 1/1/2022 through 3/31/2023. This Premier Checking account bonus offer is not available to existing or closed checking account customers of WTFC and its subsidiaries or its active employees. Limit 1 bonus payment per customer, regardless of the number of accounts opened. If you qualify for this Premier Checking account bonus offer, you are ineligible to receive this Premier Checking account bonus offer from any other WTFC location. If you qualify for any other WTFC savings offer it may be combined with this Premier Checking account bonus offer. Your new account must be open, in the same product, and have a balance greater than zero to receive the bonus payment. Balance is determined as of the end of each Business Day as the funds currently in your account including deposits and withdrawals made in the Business Day. The $300.00 bonus payment is subject to IRS 1099-INT reporting and may be considered income for tax purposes for the tax year in which the bonus was paid. 6. Premier Checking Bonus Qualifications. (i) Open a new Premier Checking account; (ii) tell us you are aware of this Premier Checking account bonus offer at account opening; (iii) have at least monthly occurring direct deposits totaling $500.00 or more each month made to your new account for 2 consecutive calendar months after the calendar month your new account was opened (‘Qualification Period’). For example, if you open your new account in January, you would need to have “Direct Deposits” made to your new account in February totaling $500 or more and in March totaling $500 or more; and (iv) enroll in online banking and activate e-statements within the Qualification Period. A direct deposit is defined as any payment made by a government agency, employer, or other third-party organization that is made via an electronic deposit. A

TIME TO CELEBRATE!

I am both honored and humbled to serve as editor in chief as Naples Illustrated commemorates its twenty-fifth anniversary with this issue. While every edition of our magazine heralds the luxe and lavish within our community and beyond, this issue is distinct and serves as a substantial celebratory marker. A silver jubilee is a momentous one, and we appreciate everyone who has helped make this publication what it is today. I’d like to extend a special thanks to our readers, however. You are our lifeblood, and we appreciate your support, especially those of you who’ve been flipping NI’s pages across the years.

The image glowing on this issue’s cover was inspired by NI’s very first edition. We attempted to re-create the original cover, adding a modern edge with the help of the Pantone color of the year (Viva Magenta) and Marissa Collections, which graciously provided styling for the photo shoot. The stunning model blushing from under the amaranthine brimmed hat is Monique Isringhausen, a face some Neapolitans may recognize. In addition to modeling for Naples publications and businesses, Isringhausen earned the title of Miss Florida USA 2020. In this issue, we’re excited to provide a look back at the original cover, along with a few pages from the 1998 edition (starting on page 112). Hopefully, you’ll gain some perspective about the then and now and witness some of the ways we’ve evolved as creators of luxury lifestyle content.

Speaking of creators, also in this issue, we are excited to share with you a leader of the links: Dana Fry. While you won’t find Fry’s name on any leaderboards per se, starting on page 118, you can read about the many breathtaking golf courses he’s had a hand in developing. While Fry calls Naples home and has designed numerous courses in the United States, he’s often jet-setting across the globe for work, constructing links in places like Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. His career has been one full of honors, and I think golfers and nongolfers alike will appreciate his story.

Another feature you won’t want to miss highlights Kamela Patton, who recently stepped away after more than a decade of serving as superintendent of Collier County Public Schools. While working for the Bee Gees brought her to Florida, she’s enjoyed a lifetime in education and has earned numerous accolades for her good work. Turn to page 138 to read more.

With a few leap years calculated and included, the grand total is 9,130. That’s roughly the number of days that Naples Illustrated celebrates with this twenty-fifth anniversary issue. Here’s to thousands of days—and thousands of pages—of luxury. We look forward to thousands more and hope you do, too.

With sincere gratitude to our readers and long-time supporters,

Jane E. Enos jenos@naplesillustrated.com

JESSI NORVELL OF MEGAN DIPIERO PHOTOGRAPHY

JESSI NORVELL OF MEGAN DIPIERO PHOTOGRAPHY

CELEBRATING A MILESTONE

Twenty-five years! We at Naples Illustrated are thrilled to be celebrating this landmark year with all the wonderful people who have contributed to this beautiful publication over the years, including our dedicated readers. You are the driving force making this magazine so special. And this issue, which celebrates and commemorates our silver anniversary, is dedicated to each one of you.

Our very first issue premiered in January/February 1998, about the same time I started my first job out of college. I was an editor for a media relations company in Boston, where I put together press releases. I loved everything about the media industry—from telling the stories to breaking the news. I even enjoyed the tight deadlines. It’s amazing to see what’s evolved over the last quarter of a century within the world of media.

Ronald J. Woods founded Naples Illustrated with a vision. He wanted to showcase Naples in the context of a luxury lifestyle magazine and entertain readers with fascinating stories and interesting tidbits about the people, places, businesses, and charities that make this city so incredible. Many of the faces and spaces that graced our magazine in 1998 continue to do so today. Kaleigh Grover helped sharpen the focus on Woods’ original vision, serving as publisher from 2005 until her retirement last year. She grew this publication to something extraordinary, and I am honored to be in the publisher’s chair now as we toast all those responsible for the magazine’s success.

In this issue, you’ll find a feature article that provides some historical perspective of our magazine. Our cover also echoes our premiere issue, as our editor in chief chose to re-create this with a modern twist.

As with every issue we publish, I’m very proud of this anniversary edition. We hope you enjoy reading about the people, places, and things that make our community so unique. And—last but not least—we would like to extend a sincere thank you for helping us reach this important milestone.

To another 25 years!

Meegan Wyatt mwyatt@naplesillustrated.com

Dream it Live it Love it

-Jett Thompson

OPENING NIGHT

WHAT: A post-show reception with the cast and crew of Steel Magnolias

WHERE: Norris Center, Naples DETAILS: Gulfshore Playhouse presented the opening night of its first production of the 2022-23 season.

MEDIA SPONSOR: Naples Illustrated

1. William Haas, Nick Dalton, Mathew Craig 2. Ann Talman, Beth Helton, Amy Van Nostrand, Angie Janas, Karen Peakes, Kristen Coury, Paula Fitzpatrick, Elisabeth Yancey 3. After-party refreshments

Colleen Nicholson, Valerie Ghoussaini 5. Alyson McCoy, Dann Dunn 6. Andre and Shontra Powell

Jodie Lippes, Robin Stranahan

Armadillo cake 9. Meegan Wyatt, Emily Bua, Derice Seslar, Jane Enos 10. Lauren Northcutt, Sheridan Parkinson, Elizabeth Eaton

Addison Griffin, Rachel Turner, Jamie Norris

CHARLIE

LUNCH AND FASHION SHOW

WHAT: Baby Basics Fifteenth Annual Luncheon and Fashion Show WHERE: A local Naples country club DETAILS: More than $80,000 was raised for Baby Basics of Collier County at a luncheon featuring a Prosecco reception, pop-up shopping, lunch, and a runway fashion show.

1. Kathryn Bettis, Jill Evans, Susan Hay 2. Melva Borley 3. Lois Thome 4. Kathy Bartalino, Liz Doepke 5. Evelyn Ford, Suzanne King, Marilyn Gattuso 6. Mary Beth Cloutier, Karen Faye, Lauren Faby 7. Cathy Gerns, Marit Granskog, Joan Cooper, Madge Bush 8. Natalia Armstrong, Carol Beckmann, Megan Curley 9. Fran Carlton, Jennifer Fey 10. Denise Zutz, Bette Aymar, Elizabeth Winebrenner, Dusti Beaubien 11. Willa and Ashley Hoffmeister 12. Emily James, Sonya Shaheen, Donna Messer, Vicki Tracy, Linda Sonders

GOLF TOURNAMENT AND FUNDRAISER

WHAT: Seventh Annual Home Base Golf Tournament and Fundraiser WHERE: Pelican’s Nest Golf Club at Pelican Landing, Bonita Springs DETAILS: Three generals were in attendance to help raise money for mental health services and programs for the veterans of Southwest Florida suffering with post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury.

JIM SERNOVITZ

Infinite fun awaits

Infinity at The Colony

Endless possibilities for fun. Infinite choices for relaxation. That’s Infinity at The Colony. The Ronto Group’s thoroughly modern perspective on high-rise living. Inspiring residences with gulf, golf and preserve views. Plus, social spaces and gathering places. Infinity at the Colony. Where your Florida lifestyle begins and the fun is never-ending.

CELEBRITY STARTENDER EVENT

WHAT: The Aielli Group hosted another edition of its Celebrity Startender Series WHERE: Dorona, Naples

DETAILS: Guests enjoyed libations served by star bartenders in aid of the Naples Children and Education Foundation, founders of the Naples Winter Wine Festival, supporting effective, disciplined charitable programs to improve the lives of underprivileged children in Collier County.

1. Daryl Berg, Elysia Dawn, Lauren Alexander 2. Mladen Stoev, Ann Bain, Marlissa Gardner, Neil Pennington 3. Tyler Knight, David and Devon Preece 4. Jody Lippes, Amelie Rider, Laura Dixon, Carol Walter, Ingrid Aielli 5. Kevin Erndl, Josh Sparks, Dan Hennessey, Lewis Johnson 6. Libby and Rick Germain 7. Robert and Julia Heidt, Bill and Nena Beynon, Rick and Libby Germain 8. John and Carol Walter 9. Bill Beynon 10. Mark and Frances Lang

HELEN WERNER

TIE A YELLOW RIBBON

WHAT: Hope Lives Here: Yellow Ribbon Kick-Off Event WHERE: Cambier Park, Naples DETAILS: Brenda Melton organized a fundraiser in conjunction with the Celebration Beach Church and veteran advocate Tony Orlando to raise awareness and support veteran programs at the Naples Senior Center. Guests were invited to purchase yellow ribbons (at a cost of $100 each) and tie them around a tree. MEDIA SPONSOR: Naples Illustrated

INSIDER

THE INSIDE TRACK TO NEAPOLITAN LIVING

SPOTLIGHT THE MATTER OF

MANNERS

“Nothing is less important than which fork you use. Etiquette is the science of living. It embraces everything. It is ethics.”

These sagacious words from the late Emily Post, a well-known authority on etiquette, denote her perspectives on social conducts that abandon the trivial and exclusionary. For her, etiquette should never be used to judge; it’s a tool to show respect, inclusivity, and consideration.

While Post passed away more than 60 years ago, her spirit lives on with The Emily Post Institute, a fifth-generation family business that— to this day—advances her altruistic precepts on etiquette. Recently, her great-great granddaughter, Lizzie Post, collaborated with Daniel Post Senning, who is Lizzie’s cousin and Emily’s great-great grandson, to bring forth Emily Post’s Etiquette: The Centennial Edition. Weighing in as one of the largest existing books of nonfiction, it’s a contemporary take on Emily’s original and the twentieth edition of the manual to date.

“Daniel and I are honored to carry on the legacy that celebrates Emily while creating a more modern advice guide,” explains Lizzie. “Emily Post has always looked to the younger generation for cues about how we should treat each other.”

While The Centennial Edition retains etiquette mainstays like table manners, note writing, sample invitations, and being a good host and good guest, it also adds advice on technology etiquette, including behavior tips related to video meetings and get togethers, cell phone and device usage, and tipping practices in a growing digital age chock-full of payment screens.

To make room for the new additions, several larger sections were removed, including those on wedding, business, and specialtytopic etiquettes.

“These sections of the book are either covered in other editions or added to our website,” she relates.

Lizzie—who serves as co-president of

The Emily Post Institute—recently presented to a gathering of The League Club members at The Country Club of Naples, discussing her great-great grandmother’s history and convictions.

“What matters and what mattered to Emily,” says Lizzie, “is treating people with kindness and respect.” (emilypost.com) –Jane E. Enos

Lizzie Post (above), copresident of The Emily Post Institute, continues to advance the precepts of etiquette developed by her great-great grandmother, Emily Post (inset).

NADIA HUCKO

COURTESY OF THE EMILY POST INSTITUTE

VOICES

Business Leaders Take Center Stage

BY GAYLENE SALOMONS

You don’t have to travel far for an audience with eyes glued to a business celebrity—all you need is an invitation to one of the exclusive NextGen Speaker Series events in Naples. In 2013, Michael Benson established the special speaker series in Southwest Florida after realizing his staff could benefit from hearing directly from successful businesspeople.

Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Benson attended Miami University (in Ohio); he started his career in Cleveland in the insurance business, working with Home Life for 10 years. He then launched an independent insurance consultancy company—Benson Blackburn. As the company grew to a national one with a mission to help families preserve and protect wealth, Benson found himself on airplanes 17 days a month to meet with clients. Wanting to mitigate the continual travel, he decided to follow his snowbird clients to Naples; he opened a secondary office in 2007. He also made the paradisical city his home at that time. It was the right move, as his client base grew from six to 250. Naples is now the primary office of Benson Blackburn.

Benson’s office in his new hometown was down the hallway from Richard (Dick) Schulze, founder of Best Buy. Schulze was a client of Benson Blackburn, and the two men had also become friends. One day, Benson asked Schul-

ze to share some business wisdom with his young staff. Even though Benson was familiar with Schulze’s story, he sat in on the discussion and discovered he was learning as well. He also realized the content was too valuable not to be shared with others. As he states: “More people could benefit from hearing Dick’s story.”

Benson decided to start a speaker series that would run in January, February, and March— the high-season months in Southwest Florida. The series would be based on four pillars: leadership, mentorship, empowerment, and philanthropy. One Friday morning during each of these months, approximately 300 people are invited to attend the sessions. Speakers share their life stories, their business successes and failures, their struggles, and lessons learned. An unfiltered question and answer period follows.

“In the past 10 years, all but two speakers have been local,” explains Benson. Past speakers include Don Fites, former chairman and CEO of Caterpillar, Inc.; Michael Duke, retired president and CEO of Walmart Inc.; Ian Read, former chairman and CEO of Pfizer; and Jerri and David Hoffmann, founders of Hoffmann Family of Companies. Speakers are asked to

contribute their time and talents without payment and instead select a local charity of their choice to which a $5,000 donation is made. To date, $100,000 has been donated to local charities from the speaker series.

“We have had a phenomenal response to the series,” reports Benson. Comments and questions range from “I learned so much” and “It helped me and my business immensely” to “When is the next one?”

Series speakers for 2023 will feature Michael Feuer, founder of OfficeMax; Tom Monaghan, founder of Domino’s Pizza and Ave Maria University and once-owner of the Detroit Tigers; and Angie Bastian, cofounder of snack brand Boom Chicka Pop.

With the sale of Benson Blackburn in November 2022 to Alera Group Wealth Services, an independent, national insurance and wealth services firm, Benson is a clear choice to address next year’s attendees. (nextgennaples.com)

Baseball Hall of Fame manager, Vice Chairman Emeritus of the Atlanta Braves, and past speaker John Schuerholz with Michael Benson

John Schuerholz (far left) chats with FGCU students

Jerri and David Hoffmann

COURTESY OF MICHAEL BENSON NEXTGEN PHOTOGRAPHY

MILESTONE REACHED

The land management team at Audubon’s Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary launched an ambitious plan five years ago: remove woody vegetation from 1,000 acres of wetland habitat by 2023. By the end of 2022, they had already reached this milestone.

The three-phase restoration process consisted of mechanically removing overgrown woody vegetation, treating non-native and other undesirable plants trying to reestablish among the native grasses and wetland vegetation, and finally, reintroducing prescribed fire to manage and maintain these wetlands long term. More than 252 acres of woody shrubs were mulched in 2022, bringing the total to 1,103 acres.

More than 80 percent of wetlands in Southwest Florida have been altered or destroyed; Audubon has identified several hundred more acres of marsh and prairie habitats invaded by nuisance shrubbery and

has since targeted it for restoration. Their goal is to mulch about 200 acres per year at a cost of $3,500 per acre.

As they’re restored, these marshes and prairies will bring multiple ecological benefits, including allowing biologically diverse wetland systems to remove harmful nutrients from surface water before it reaches estuaries, reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfires in our community, holding floodwaters during severe weather events, and providing habitats to many species of wading birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. (corkscrew.audubon.org) –G.S.

LOVE in Naples

Lana Love, who grew up in Naples, recently achieved national recognition for her star turn on The Voice. She ascended to the battle rounds of the show last October, earning raves from judges and this comment from John Legend: “You should be on Broadway right now. You have the voice for it.” Legend also said, “Lana, I just love your passion, the way you move your body when you sing.”

Love, now 30, was born in Atlanta, but moved to Naples when she was 12. She graduated from Gulf Coast High School in 2010. Her theater teacher, while attending the Community School of Naples, was Mark Danni, whom she credits with kickstarting her career.

Danni directed Love in TheatreZone’s Tommy and later in his production of Sweet Smell of Success. Love has acted in off-Broadway musicals and even played Ariel in a Disney Cruise Line production of The Little Mermaid

This past December, Love returned to Naples to join the cast of TheatreZone’s Home for the Holidays, where a selection of memorable holiday classics, unique choreography, and colorful costumes dazzled audiences in four separate performances.

With her passion for singing and dancing, the once-local Love will likely be cherished by numerous audiences to come. —G.S.

WILLIAM HAUCK/AUDUBON PHOTOGRAPHY AWARDS

Seeing the greater good since 1911.

Beginning in 1911, Barron Gift Collier began investing in Florida based solely on his vision and optimism. He saw how good it could be and backed his belief. Our success is rooted in his conviction. Today, you’ll find Barron Collier Companies in markets across the country, while we continue to pursue new projects and opportunities in The Sunshine State. Because when it comes to inspiration and optimism, we have a lot to thank Florida for.

FINDS

LITTLE LOVELIES

MINIATURE CAN BE MIGHTY, AND HERE’S PROOF THAT EXCEPTIONAL THINGS CAN COME IN SMALL PACKAGES

BY GAYLENE SALOMONS

BRILLIANT BAUBLES

Dazzle the one you adore with these jeweled beauties: Suzy Landa pear-shaped green tourmaline with double diamond halo ($12,540); limited series CarolinaWickenburg yellow gold hand-sculpted owl pendant with emerald eyes ($3,150); and Eden Presley gold Goddess Hoops outlined in a medley of green gemstones ($3,600). Shannon Green, Naples (shannongreen.com)

FOR THE WEE ONES

Keep tiny toes covered with these Babycottons terry crew socks ($21 per two-pack) in pastel blue or pink; keep little heads warm with a naturally hypoallergenic 100-percent organic cotton Apple Park moon-and-star print hat ($18). Thoughtful Threads, Naples (foodandthought.com)

PETITELY PICTURED Rosenthal in these silver and gold mini frames ($99 each), especially created for those small but phenomenal photos. BRuno, Naples (239-261-9806)

FLOWER FONDNESS

Dianthus caryophyllus nana, commonly known as the mini carnation, sends a simple message of friendship when you gift a bouquet ($8). Food & Thought, Naples (foodandthought.com)

DAINTY DECADENCE

Accompany your afternoon tea with a sleeve of delicate but delicious macaron sandwich cookies ($15) in delightful jewel tones, Gelato & Co., Naples (florida. gelatoeco.com)

meets Versace

TRAVEL LIGHT

No need to check a bag when you keep your toiletries under 3.4 ounces with this collection of elfin luxuries, including Shu Uemura Urban Moisture Hydronourishing Shampoo ($29); Shu Uemura Essence Absolue Nourishing Taming Overnight Serum red camellia oil ($20); and Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray ($24). N Color Salon, Naples (ncolorsalon.com)

HAVE SOME SCENTS

Hand-sorted by French artisans, this potpourri of scented amber crystals ($100)—from Frédéric Fekkai’s Bastide line of home products—infuses any room with a sumptuous aroma. Judith Liegeois Designs, Naples (judithliegeoisdesigns.com)

SHARE THE LOVE

Hand-carved stones ($9 each) in light and dark shades of gray send a sweet message wherever they might appear or present. Peach Tree Designs, Naples (peachtreedesigns.com)

SMALL POURS

Find your favorite wines in diminutive sizes: Santa Margherita pinot grigio ($16 for 375 ml) or Chateau Miraval Côtes De Provence rosé ($17 for 375 ml). Wynn’s Market, Naples (wynnsmarket.com)

SMALL SCALE, TREMENDOUS TASTE

Chef Darren Veilleux presents an incredible experience of several tiny courses, including a smidgen of delectable king crab on heirloom tomato gelée and a shark bay scallop with pistachio gremolata, in this new tasting menu option ($225 per person; $340 per person with wine pairing). Sails Restaurant, Naples (sailsrestaurants.com)

Shawn David, Director of Provident Fine Art

Shawn is a 4th generation art dealer that brings decades of experience to our Worth Avenue gallery. He takes pride in helping clients whether they are building their collection or divesting of pieces they no longer desire.

The gallery always has exquisite works for those with diverse and discerning tastes. Pieces include 19th & 20th century French and American Impressionism, Post Impressionism, Modernism and Contemporary works, always vetted for quality and condition.

Shawn embodies Provident Fine Arts’ passion for exemplary customer service and placing beautiful art into our customers lives.

Call or visit the gallery and allow Shawn to help you with all your fine art needs.

STYLE

CURATED FINDS, LUXE ACCESSORIES, AND RUNWAY REPORTS

META MAISON

AS FASHION BRANDS DIVE INTO THE DIGITAL WORLD, THE LINE BETWEEN FANTASY AND REALITY BLURS

BY KATHERINE LANDE

1. Good Game tote bag ($2,900), Gucci, gucci.com, Gucci’s Good Game capsule collection honors the brand’s connection with the world of gaming with a reimagined monogram that hearkens both to founder Guccio Gucci and the “good game” exchanges between e-sports competitors. | 2. Multicolored cotton T-shirt with gooDGame print ($345), Dolce & Gabbana, dolcegabbana.com, also inspired by the “good game” salute, Dolce & Gabbana created a genderless collection that is available to purchase online and through the metaverse. | 3. Virtual .Swoosh shoes (prices vary), Nike, the iconic footwear brand recently launched .Swoosh, a web platform where customers can buy, sell, and trade virtual Nike pieces. | 4. Spring 2023 ready-to-wear collection (prices vary), Loewe, loewe. com, inspired by games such as Minecraft, Loewe designer Jonathan Anderson crafted real-life pixelated outfits that would feel at home in the metaverse. | 5. Blade 2049 heels ($1,450), Casadei, casadei.com, Casadei celebrated the tenth anniversary of its Blade heels with an NFT collection that allowed buyers to connect the physical shoes with metaverse wearables. | 6. Wallrunner and C2172 metaverse jackets (prices vary), Adidas, adidas.com/metaverse, the Adidas Virtual Gear collection is the brand’s first-ever foray into completely NFT garments for fashionable avatars.

STYLE

THE LOOK

KIDS AT PLAY

INDULGE YOUR INNER CHILD WITH NOSTALGIC AND FUNFILLED ACCESSORIES

BY KATHERINE LANDE

FIRST LOVE

Feather-trimmed satin sandals ($1,080), Mach & Mach, modaop erandi.com

FALLEN ANGEL

Heavenly crystal sandals ($1,155), Sophia Webster, sophiawebster.com

HOME SWEET HOME

Asnières family house trunk for small treasures (price upon request), Louis Vuitton, Naples, us.louisvuitton.com

GUCCI SS23

Twinning details make a visual impact on the runway.

FOREVER Nostalgia Bear earring set ($88), Crystal Haze, matchesfashion.com

ALFRESCO FEAST

Alice’s Picnic one-of-a-kind charm necklace (price upon request), Brent Neale, brent neale.com

CUDDLE BUDDY

Teddy bear minaudiere with green crystals, Double G pattern, and metal chain shoulder strap ($49,000), Gucci, Naples, gucci.com

LUCKY CHARMS

Silver and enamel bead bracelet ($2,115), Lauren Rubinski, netaporter.com

STYLE NOTES X

MORE IS MORE: ELEVATE THE LOOK WITH HEAVY EMBELLISHMENTS.

RAINBOW BRIGHT: LEAN INTO KITSCHY AND COLORFUL ACCENTS.

SUBTLE SOLO ACT: OPT FOR ONE WHIMSICAL STATEMENT PIECE.

LITTLE LAMB

Special-edition wool-blend top-handle handbag ($1,130), Moschino, moschino.com

BEST FRIENDS

NEW YEAR

NEW YOU

Yamron Jewelers is ringing in the new year with new collections from exclusive brands that are a contemporary take on classic jewelry designs. These brands have developed new creations that are innovative and classic which will never fall out of style. Visit us at our store at the Waterside Shops to discover these new luxury creations.

How did you get your big break into fashion?

Badgley: We both got great jobs right out of school; I was at Donna Karan, James was at WilliWear and Yves Saint Laurent in menswear. We decided to start our own company because we were already working so hard, we thought we should do it for ourselves.

Mischka: We always wanted to make clothes for our friends to wear—Mark’s twin sister is a major muse for us—and people responded. We had features in Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, Barneys and Bergdorf Goodman bought the first collection, and we won a few awards. Then Hollywood’s red carpet noticed us, and things really took off.

What is the best part about designing as a duo?

Mischka: It’s been great because we can literally be in two places at once. We have a sort of mental connection that lets us know what each other would think about a color, a design detail, or almost anything else. And we can always blame the other one if things go wrong.

What’s the inspiration behind the Spring 2023 collection?

Badgley: We finally got ourselves

to Morocco this past Spring, and it was a total feast for the senses— the colors, the aromas, the sounds, the light! We were also able to work with amazing artisans in Casablanca to create some of our embroideries and embellishments, which made the pieces even more special.

You’re known for creating high glamour looks. What’s your best piece of style advice for the social season?

Badgley: We think everyone should take a chance and make a statement this season—wear a new color, choose a dress with an extravagant detail, be a little bolder. Have fun and light it up!

REAL TALK WITH...

Badgley Mischka

Mark Badgley and James Mischka discuss their design partnership, influences, and latest looks

BY KATHERINE LANDE

How do you think fashion and art intersect?

Mischka: We think of fashion as an applied art. Fashion and art really can’t exist without each other, and it is often so hard to tell where one ends and the other begins.

Who or what has been the greatest influence on your work?

Badgley: We have always been inspired by the glamour of Old Hollywood, by the magic that the studios created and that every woman aspired to be a part of. The challenge, and the joy, is to bring that influence to our modern customer.

Badgley Mischka’s Spring 2023 collection draws inspiration from the designers’ recent visit to Morocco.

BIJOUX

3ROYAL TREATMENT

WITH ITS RICH PURPLE HUE, AMETHYST IS FIT FOR A QUEEN

BY MARY MURRAY

1. LINK UP Lionheart Donya ball-link statement necklace with amethysts and diamonds set in 14-karat gold, $5,480. (lionheartjewelry.com)

2. SQUARED AWAY Assael drop earrings from The Colors collection with Brazilian amethysts, lavender spinel, and natural-color Tahitian cultured pearls set in platinum, $11,000. Marissa Collections, Naples (marissacollections.com)

3. DIVINE DÉCOLLETAGE Picchiotti necklace with an amethyst and diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, $41,400. Bigham Jewelers, Naples (bigham jewelers.com)

4. GARDEN PARTY Lydia Courteille earrings with amethysts, sapphires, and diamonds set in 18-karat gold with rhodium, price upon request. (lydia courteilleshop.com)

5. EMERALD CITY Lagos Glacier large ring with an amethyst and 18-karat gold Caviar beading set in sterling silver, $1,000. (lagos.com)

6. OPULENT OVAL Eden Presley ring with Rose de France amethysts, purple sapphires, and diamonds set in 14-karat gold, $2,750. Shannon Green Collection, Naples (shannongreen.com)

7. HIGH FIVE Robinson Pelham Marnie five-stone ring with amethysts set in 14-karat gold, $2,950. Marissa Collections, Naples (marissacollections.com)

8. IN PARALLEL Misahara Zaliv cuff with amethysts set in 18-karat gold, $3,200. (misahara.com)

9. PRINCESS DIARIES Effy Jewelry earrings with amethysts, pink tourmaline, and diamonds set in 14-karat rose gold, $4,250. Macy’s, Naples (macys.com)

ON VIEW NOW

Immerse yourself in this exhibition featuring the plants and animals that inspired one of the world’s most iconic artists.

Supported by:

RESIDE

DESIGN AND DECOR FOR LUXURIOUS LIVING IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Meredith Gibbons

BY GAYLENE SALOMONS PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICK SHIRGHIO

When you step into the home of the Gibbons family, it’s as if you have entered a contemporary art gallery. It might be the combination of the bleached wide-plank, white oak floor, the matte black railing that lines the stairwell and landing, the pristine white walls (painted in Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace), and the subdued lighting. Or, perhaps it’s simply the palpable silence pervading the elegant and lofty space. Although few would say they aspire to live in a museum—as it conjures a stuffy environment where you are admonished to look and not touch—the inspiration for this home’s interior was indeed a fine art gallery.

To read more about this art-filled home, turn the page.

Meredith Gibbons knew exactly what she was doing. After graduating from the University of Richmond with a degree in art history, she moved to New York City, where she enrolled in an intensive professional training program in the American fine and decorative arts offered by Sotheby’s.

“I’ve always been attracted to the arts,” she says, “but also the business aspect of it.” Following completion of this program, Meredith worked in an art gallery in Manhattan—planning exhibitions, cataloguing works of art, and doing research.

The two-story home purchased by the Gib-

bons in 2020 was heavily Mediterranean; Meredith, however, knew the home contained great bones when she first toured it. Originally occupied by a family of six, it was the second owners who made minor changes when they redecorated and brightened the home. As the third owners, the Gibbons recognized an opportunity for a design overhaul where they could happily coexist with their extensive collections of art and wine.

“White oak floors, worn from years of repeated sanding, and matte black railing, often seen in galleries in Soho or Paris, were the two starting points for my design,” explains Mere-

dith. Her main priority, however, was to create a comfortable home where friends and family would be free to gather. “That is why there are lots of performance fabrics in this house,” she emphasizes.

The artwork on display in the home is an amalgamation of Meredith, her husband, and her father-in-law—Dave Gibbons, who resides with them part-time. From the untitled marble sculpture designed by Pablo Atchugarry in the front foyer to the vivid green encaustic-on-panel painting, Neptune Revisited (I), by Martin Kline on the second level, art is strategically placed throughout the more than

Meredith Gibbons’ residence showcases a mix of modern and vintage furniture pieces and curated design elements, providing an ideal backdrop for the family’s extensive collections of art and wine.

8,000-square-foot home.

In a neutral and calm environment, artwork can easily be moved around, added, or acquired. “We have never gone out and bought a piece of art to fit a space—we buy what we like and fit it into our space,” says Meredith. “We visit exhibitions and galleries, and if something speaks to us, we purchase it.”

Meredith did purchase all new furniture for the home, mixing both modern and vintage pieces. In the living room, Minotti chairs are juxtaposed with a seamless Vladimir Kagan serpentine sofa (originally designed in 1955), upholstered in a sleek gray velveteen, and bronze organically shaped coffee tables. The only hard stops evident in this room are the right angles on the matte black granite that surrounds the fireplace.

Even the lighting throughout the home was carefully chosen and can be controlled with precision. Overhead, small square lights set in the ceiling can be set to a certain wattage for optimal serenity at any hour of the day.

“Soft lighting makes a statement without screaming,” says Meredith, who chose a chandelier from Apparatus, composed of blown matte white balls hanging in a cluster from the ceiling of the living room. In the foyer, a John Pomp Studios chandelier resembles a large mobile. Slight movements of air, from the opening and closing of the front door, produce subtle changes in the chandelier’s formation throughout the day.

Ultimately, explains Meredith, “I want someone to be in a room and when asked, they can’t put a finger on any one thing that stands out. I want them to recognize there is a continuity and flow to the room that just works—no one piece takes over.”

Although this involves detailed and deliberate planning, it is something Meredith, a selfdescribed perfectionist, loves to do. Over the years she has designed many of the family’s homes and has also collaborated on projects with friends and select clients. Her experiences have left her eager for more design work. «

Casual ELEGANCE

A

PORT ROYAL FAMILY HOME ENSURES BOTH BEAUTY AND PRACTICALITY

BY MARY THURMAN YUHAS PHOTOGRAPHY BY VENJHAMIN REYES

Timing is everything in life. For Elizabeth and Sean Nolan, it was finally their year to purchase a second home. The youngest of their four children graduated from high school; Elizabeth retired from teaching middle school, and Sean—although still active on several boards—retired from his demanding position as CEO of a biotech company.

Over the years, the active pair searched Florida for an ideal site, from locations in the panhandle to Fort Lauderdale, where many of their friends live. Their quest ended when the Chicago suburbanites discovered Naples with its low-key vibe wrapped in Midwestern appeal.

“We hoped to find an existing house that had everything we wanted, but we fell in love with this lot in Port Royal,” says Elizabeth. “It was on the water, and that was something Sean insisted on.

Inset: Bright white walls and ceilings are offset by pops of color in pillow fabrics, accessories, and striking artwork.

Below left: The 7,300-square-foot Port Royal estate

It meant tearing down the existing home. While it took longer than we wanted to wait, it was worth it.”

Because Elizabeth had a vision of what the pair wanted, she researched local architects, builders, and interior designers. After compiling her findings, the pair commissioned BCB Homes, seasoned residential custom builders; Ficarra Design Associates; and Stofft Cooney Architects. The 18month-long project commenced.

“I met with the homeowners and saw the floor plans,” says Molly Grup, senior interior designer at Ficarra Design Associates. “The Nolans were looking for a familyand dog-friendly home where they could entertain large groups. It’s always a treat to work with clients who will really use their home.”

“Elizabeth wanted a lot of windows and natural light and a clean, airy look to flood the room,” continues Grup. “Sean wanted a club room with a big bar and an Irish pub feel.”

A calm, cool color palette dominates the 7,300-square-foot home. The flooring

Clockwise from top: The kitchen showcases an oversize Cristallo quartzite waterfall island; the interior staircase; the informal dining area features thoughtfully selected organic elements.

is a combination of light colored wood, tile, and carpet, while bright white walls and ceilings—some detailed in shiplap and others beamed and coffered—create the relaxed yet elegant atmosphere the client desired. Hues of grays and blues found in wall and window coverings, as well as in rugs and furniture, lead the color scheme in the six bedrooms.

“My biggest inspiration stylistically was the striking, colorful art of Kristi Kohut that Elizabeth likes—as seen in the foyer and informal dining area,” notes Grup. “I had to find a way to incorporate Kohut’s colorful art without it feeling overwhelming. By including pillow fabrics and accessories that have pops of color, the artwork feels right at home.”

The art contrasts elegantly against the light woods and white walls. A weathered looking wooden dining table, surrounded by armless light colored upholstered chairs, sits under a chandelier of stacked interlocking circles in natural colored yarn, providing an organic element that keeps the room from becoming too stark.

Black exterior window frames on the transitional coastal residence were another influence. To continue the sophisticated flair, Grup incorporated intermittent black accents elsewhere in the home in tile and wallpaper choices.

Elizabeth recalls some friends wondering why they chose such a large home. “We want this to be our forever second home,” the homeowner explains. “Our hope is, as our family keeps growing, it will be comfortable. We built a lounge area upstairs to make it easy and fun. It’s not just for us; it’s about having our family here.”

Whether it’s family time with Elizabeth cooking one of her Italian specialties or parties with a private chef, the kitchen was important. For softness, an oversize waterfall island of Cristallo quartzite spills over bleached walnut cabinetry. Counter stools with rattan backs and white cushioned seats add a tropical mood, while the oversize range hood in matte metal framed in polished nickel creates a practical statement piece. A backsplash composed of glossy, white

The residence’s design combines a calm, cool color palette with a clean, airy look created by lots of windows and natural light.

textured subway tiles looks handcrafted, keeping the overall tone and tenor of the room casual, cool, and ever so slightly imperfect.

“We added transom windows inside the upper portion of the kitchen wall cabinets and above some of the interior doors so light comes through,” adds Grup, noting there is a bright, jaunty appeal throughout the home.

Sean is the bartender in the club room where he specializes in martinis. Parties often start in the friendly space and continue to the informal dining areas both inside and out. Often, guests gather at the boat dock and journey by water to one of Naples’ many restaurants.

At night, Elizabeth and Sean like to sit in the generously sized outdoor living space to enjoy Southwest Florida’s glorious sunsets. Equipped with both a conventional grill and an Evo flattop grill, the outdoor cooking area rivals the interior kitchen. “It’s a great covered place for entertaining,” says Grup. “There are several seating areas—by the pool, by the firepit, and there is a grassy area for lawn games.”

The building team and the homeowners are delighted with their collaboration and the home speaks for itself. “Elizabeth continues to buy accessories and art to make it their own, and they are looking forward to enjoying the home for many years,” adds Grup. «

The outdoor waterfront living space boasts seating areas adjacent to the pool and the firepit, a grassy area for lawn games, plus access to the boat dock.

INSPIRED LIVING

Making Scents of It All

TIPS FOR CURATING OLFACTORY EXPERIENCES THROUGHOUT YOUR HOME

BY LIZA GRANT SMITH

According to a study conducted by Mood Media, 75 percent of all emotions generated every day are due to smell. It’s perhaps one of the reasons why more and more luxury hotels are developing signature fragrances and why the concept of home scenting has flourished in recent years. Here’s a cheat sheet on how to cultivate a desired mood in your home’s primary spaces.

THREE TECHNIQUES

1. Burning scented candles, such as those by Naples-based Pepper Street Studio (pepperstreetstudio.com) is an easy way to scent a room with the bonus of creating instant ambience. Entrepreneur Brandi Woolington offers artisan candles featuring soy wax, wood wicks, and essential oils, all packaged in recycled glass jars.

2. Scent diffusing has gone high tech, with companies like Aroma360 (aroma360.com) offering both standalone and HVAC-connected systems that can scent spaces measuring up to 6,000 square feet. The company has designed more than 90 signature scents for hotels and high-end brands, and it sells oils reminiscent of many of those mixtures.

3. Fresh flowers serve as a source of fragrance and as a decor accent. An interior designer by trade, Allison Keevan’s love of florals turned into a pursuable passion, so she launched Flora & Fauna (floraandfaunaflower.com). She now offers wedding services, workshops, and arrangements that have a visual “wow” factor as well as aromas that evoke emotions.

THREE SPACES

1. THE KITCHEN

The key in the kitchen is to not compete with the food. Instead, opt for scents that play to culinary flavors such as herbs, sweet fruit, fresh citrus, and baking spices.

Candle Pick: Pepper Street Studio has an array of food-inspired scents to choose from, including citrus and basil, grapefruit, and white tea and rosemary.

Diffuser Pick: Inspired by the W Hotel, Aroma360’s 24K Magic entices with bergamot, lemon, and lemongrass, before developing into a bouquet of

magnolia, jasmine, and lily on a base of koa wood and white musk.

Flower Pick: “Basil is a go-to that is subtly herbal, while orange blossom branches add a touch of citrus sweetness without being overly floral,” says Keevan. “You can even incorporate citrus fruit into the arrangements. Stack several Meyer lemons on skewers and tuck them into the surrounding stems and blooms for a unique look and clean scent. Or try incorporating sage into your arrangements when the temperature begins to cool down for more of a cozy, earthy scent.”

2. THE LIVING ROOM

The desired mood in a living room often changes depending on the day and occasion. Create a vibe that is inviting, cozy, and a bit alluring with warm wood scents, like cedar or sandalwood mixed with vanilla. Or go for a more fresh and lively approach (i.e., garden flowers) that encourages socialization and boosts energy.

Candle Pick: Woolington recommends Beach House, a blend of salty air and crisp laundry that is her No. 1 seller. “It has clean and fresh qualities, along with the sea mineral top notes and fresh undertones,” she says.

Diffuser Pick: Designed for Margaritaville, Mother Ocean from Aroma360 has hints of bergamot, ivy, and ocean plus notes of peony, magnolia, and sweet honeysuckle, and a finish of oud, warm amber, and sandalwood.

Flower Pick: “Select one to be the star and really lean into it rather than combining many for an overt scent,” Keevan advises. “This is the setting where I would incorporate more vibrant floral scents such as playful and feminine peonies, powdery yet perfumed lilies, or delicate and sweet gardenias.”

3. THE BEDROOM

In addition to being tranquil and balancing, the bedroom is also the most critical room to personalize. Determine scents that soothe you—whether they be herbal and spa-like, deep and sultry, or delicate and sweet.

Candle Pick: Go for Pepper Street Studio’s tobacco and bay leaf candle, a mix of bay leaf, fir needle, cedar wood, bergamot, and tobacco.

Diffuser Pick: An homage to Nest’s cedar leaf and lavender scent, Aroma360’s Blue Moon combines deep blue cedar and lavender for a relaxing aroma that becomes even more soothing with notes of lilac, sandalwood, and eucalyptus.

Flower Pick: “I look for more soothing scents that have fragrance but are calming and soft,” notes Keevan. “Garden roses, chamomile, stock, and, of course, lavender are favorites.”

ELEMENTS

Better in BLACK & WHITE

THIS DRAMATIC DUO PROVES THAT SOME DECOR CLASSICS NEVER GO OUT OF STYLE

BY LIZA GRANT SMITH

UNIVERSAL APPEAL

Cracked eggshell and black lacquer come together to form a cosmos worthy of your dinner table in these handcrafted placemats ($150 for set of two) by Von Gern Home Lantz Collective, Naples (lantzcollective.com)

STUNNING IN STRIPES

A black-and-white-striped glaze and gold-stripe detailing make the Lula Park table lamp ($326) from Elk Home the ideal glam accent. Lighting First, Naples, Bonita Springs (lightingfirst.us)

MORNING GLORY

Megan Winters of Megan Winters Design created a delightful bathroom that makes the early hours feel less daunting. “This light-filled bathroom was designed to be a fresh, classic, bright, and happy start to the day,” says Winters. “We balanced the space by injecting plenty of bright white tile and painted finishes against the graphically strong black-and-white tub/vanity/countertop combinations, then [we] punched up the fun equation with leopard wallpaper. The result is a combination of chic serene and tongue-in-cheek happiness.” Naples (meganwinters.com)

QUEEN’S GAMBIT

L’Objet’s chess set ($1,995) boasts a captivating game face made from lacquered Macassar ebony, marble, brass, and shell inlay. Republic of Decor, Naples

(republicofdecor.com)

GOING IN CIRCLES

Connect the dots with this Uttermost pillow ($147), featuring a circular pattern on cotton slubbed fabric. Peach Tree Designs, Naples (peachtreedesigns.com)

MIX IT UP

This gorgeous salad bowl ($495) is part of the Herbariae tableware collection by Christian Lacroix Maison and Vista Alegre, which was inspired by herbarium collections and antique botanical prints. Arabesque of Naples (arabesqueofnaples.com)

WORKING THE ANGLES

An elevated approach to geometry, Universal Furniture’s Nina Magon Marcel console table ($1,749) pairs a smooth stone top with a bronze-finished base.

Baer’s Furniture, Naples (baers.com)

PETITE SEAT

Good things come in small packages, as evidenced by this Anthropologie chair ($498) in woven cotton rug upholstery. Anthropologie, Naples (anthro pologie.com)

CREATING ART THROUGH ALCHEMY

UNIQUE ABSTRACT CREATIONS SUITABLE FOR HANGING IN OUTDOOR SPACES

BY GAYLENE SALOMONS

Leland Brinkman’s abstract art can be found in various private and corporate collections around the world. Born and raised in Naples, Brinkman moved to and completed high school in Barrington, Illinois. While there, he worked with a faux-finish painting company. He opted out of attending college and stayed in the Chicago area, continuing to learn various painting techniques from his boss.

Eventually Brinkman made his way back to Naples and started his own company—Brinkman Wall Works. “It was just as faux finishing was becoming less popular,” he says. “Ornate Mediterranean design was being replaced with simple and modern choices.”

Brinkman remembers he broke his wrist around that time, too, making faux painting especially hard to do. He always had an affinity for abstract art, and he decided it was time to put his hand to the unrealistic style, asking, “I can do that, but how can I do it differently?”

This self-taught artist found his way with alchemy—a process that changes or transforms something in a mysterious or impressive way. Brinkman creates his pieces using the finest powders

of iron, copper, and bronze to form a cold liquid paste. This product is then combined with saltbased elements to initiate an organic reaction when applied to the preferred medium with a single-color background. All the amazing colors in Brinkman’s work are created by the natural oxidation process of these metals.

Fortunately for Brinkman, in addition to finding a place on the walls of local galleries—currently his creations can be viewed and purchased at Sheldon Fine Art galleries in Naples and Newport, Rhode Island—his novel abstract paintings found permanent places in plenty of homes. His broad network of friends and word of mouth helped his sales.

Along with inheriting a penchant for art and creating from his father, Robert Brinkman, and a friendship with Ran Adler, who continues to inspire, Leland Brinkman also credits his abstract inspiration from his time spent working on commercial fishing boats in Alaska. There, he noted copper pipes, patinaed with age, and color-coded floors and ceilings. Awestruck by the natural beauty of the surroundings, he parlayed many of the unique colors and materials into his signature works of art.

INTO THE OUTSIDE

Abstract artist Leland Brinkman creates impactful outdoor works with signature colors and materials using the process known as alchemy.

Mike Flaugh Landscape Architect

So why outdoor art?

“There is little art of value that can live outside,” he realized. Brinkman turned to marine and autograde materials to experiment with, making highquality art suitable for the outdoor environment. “You still don’t want your works hanging in direct sunlight or where the rain can get at them,” he says, especially if you want to enjoy them for a number of years.

Brinkman continued experimenting in the abstract vein, utilizing a combination of oxidized liquid metals and pigments on various surfaces, from mirrors to Plexiglas; he also experimented with translucency, wanting to marry the pieces to the wall.

“I wanted to see the color of the walls through the painting,” he explains. He also tried encasing his works with remote controlled lights to change the ambience. “It turns it into a more playful piece,” he adds. These outdoor pieces “are heavy and more expensive to produce, so custom is the way to go,” he explains.

As there is ample opportunity in Southwest Florida to enjoy the outdoors and as our homes continue to extend aesthetically to the outside, with an emphasis on creating comfortable yet well-designed spaces, the art we choose for these areas is given more thought and deliberation. Brinkman continues to grow his repertoire and experiment with new and inventive ways to realize beautiful creations appropriate for the outdoors. «

From far left: Futuna and Splash II by Leland Brinkman

Shaken, Not Stirred, 60 x 60 inches, acrylic on canvas

AMY ART GALLERY & STUDIO

Open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 12 to 4 p.m. or by appointment 28 10th Street South, Naples | 402-203-2041 | AmyArt.net F I

Strengthening communities through

Naples Tables 2023 Fun Fabulous Festive! is a feast for the eyes and a gift from the heart.

League Club members, friends, sponsors and talented designers come together to create and enjoy spectacular tablescapes that raise funds for The Community Trust Fund, benefiting local nonprofits that address critical needs in our community.

To celebrate our 5th anniversary, we are introducing a new one-of-kind experience on the eve of the event – An Evening at Naples Tables- Caftans, Cocktails and Charlotte!, an intimate glimpse into where the magic happens.

We are thankful that Naples Tables continues to grow and support our community organizations while showcasing the creations of many generous and talented local designers, companies from Naples, and nationally and internationally known designers and speakers.

Grants distributed in 2022 funded healthcare and emergency services for 7,038 patients, provided support

for mental wellness and treatment for 7,542 citizens of Collier and Lee counties, and enhanced education with over 100,000 classes, tutoring hours and job training courses. Grants by The League Club helped combat hunger by providing 106,000 meals for underserved children, adults and seniors. We responded to critical needs in our community with a grant of $50,000 from our Emergency Fund after Hurricane Ian.

The League Club has provided over $6.1 million in grants to over 170 nonprofit agencies in Collier and Lee Counties since our founding in 1986. Over 600 members share a Commitment to Community through monthly educational meetings, interest groups, fellowship, leadership and volunteering directly at more than 50 local agencies.

We are grateful to Naples Illustrated and Florida Design Naples for their loyal support, guidance and partnership in our growth from the simple pleasures to spectacular tablescapes.

fellowship, education, volunteerism, and philanthropy.

JOURNEYS

YOUR PASSPORT TO THE MOST FASCINATING CORNERS OF THE GLOBE

COWBOY UP

BY DAPHNE NIKOLOPOULOS

You only have 18 summers with your kids. Make them count.

That’s a bit of cowboy wisdom bandied by the folks at The Resort at Paws Up, and it’s meant to remind parents—and anyone, really—that time is precious and the best way to spend it is together, preferably in wild places that awaken the spirit and get the adrenaline pumping.

Paws Up is that kind of place. A mountain resort sprawled across 37,000 acres (for comparison purposes, Manhattan is 10,890 acres) near Greenough, Montana, Paws Up tantalizes visitors with nature’s majesty and the promise of adventure. The setting is an exquisite wilderness with mountains stretching to the horizon, rivers running through ponderosa forests, and wide-open meadows where you see more elks

IN THE SPRAWLING LANDSCAPES OF MONTANA’S HIGH COUNTRY, THE RESORT AT PAWS UP CALLS NATURE SEEKERS TO AN ADVENTURE LIKE NO OTHER

than humans. Being surrounded by the stillness and silence of the land has the net effect of slowing you down so that you notice things like a patch of bluebells in a field of oxeye daisies, or the halo of afternoon light

around a horse’s mane.

This is balm for work-weary adults, but for children, it’s pure magic. When kids get out into the wild, away from screens and regimented schedules, a transformation happens. It’s fun to watch them sing along with the cowboys by the campfi re, become experts in s’more construction, or learn to thread a fl y onto a fi shing rod. Why watch Yellowstone when it’s outside your door? And who needs a video game when you can race an ATV through a muddy road?

Few places facilitate familial bonding like Paws Up. It starts with the accommodations, which are as luxurious as they are cozy and offer families plenty of roaming space inside and out. The 28 ranch homes nestled within the pines come in one- to four-bedroom configurations and have all the amenities: large stone fireplaces, Western-chic decor, private decks out back, use of a Lexus SUV, and—the most important of all—mountain views for days. For the more rugged, there is “glamping” (fun fact: Paws Up actually coined this term) in tented camps by the river or deep in the woods. These aren’t ordinary tents. Appointed with luxe beds and en-suite bathrooms (with

Clockwise from top left: Archery is big with the littles; hot-air balloons rise above the Blackfoot River Valley; all roads lead to the Cook Shack; slow ride through a country road; a Wilderness Estate.

STUART THURLKILL

heated floors!), and tended by a camping butler, they give a whole new meaning to “roughing it.”

Activity-wise, there is everything under the (big) sky. The horseback-riding facilities may be the best in Montana, and that’s saying a lot. Paws Up has the state’s largest equestrian center with 52 horse stalls, 100 miles of trails, and a 29,000-square-foot riding arena. Rides range from short trail walks along a creek to a six-hour Frontiersman Ride that crosses the Blackfoot River and climbs 1,000 feet to breathtaking lookouts. Since Paws Up is located within a cattle ranch, there are opportunities for cattle drives and unique pastimes like cow croquet, which was invented here.

A favorite for all ages is ATV touring. These allterrain four-wheelers will take you just about anywhere, including a ghost town dating to the late 1800s. Garnet was a mining town in the Gold Rush days, and you can see evidence of its heyday before it was abandoned. The general store still contains relics of the era, and the saloon is so well preserved you might be tempted to order a drink—in a dirty

100 horses, 10 rescued mustangs

Clockwise from top left: Horses graze in open meadows; Big Timber threebedroom home; tomahawk chops at the Chuck Wagon; huckleberry pancakes are the must-have breakfast at Paws Up; go kart racing; a cozy Big Timber home.

STUART

THURLKILL

DAN GOLDBERG PHOTOGRAPHY



Average sp d of an ATV: 50 MPH

glass, of course. Whether on- or off-road, every ATV adventure comes with an adrenaline rush, which inevitably leads to great stories by the fi re.

And then there’s the food. Be prepared to taste real Big Sky Country cuisine, prepared with foraged ingredients like huckleberries and locally sourced meats and freshwater fi sh. Not to be missed: the Chuck Wagon, an authentic dude ranch cookout. Feast on tomahawk chops, ribs, and Dutch-oven cobblers while you work on your lasso and hatchetthrowing skills, or chill out on a wagon ride with a driver who deals out local lore and hums cowboy tunes. Days end fi reside under a spectacular show of stars, often with a song or an impromptu banjo concert, and always with a full heart. (pawsup.com) «

In Montana’s Big Sky Country, ATVs are the vehicle of choice. The Paws Up fleet includes both ATVs and Polaris General vehicles for backcountry cruising.

STUART THURLKILL

STAYCATIONS

Making a SPLASH

GOLF IS STILL KING AT THE RITZ-CARLTON NAPLES, TIBURÓN, BUT THE PROPERTY HAS EVOLVED INTO A TRUE FAMILY DESTINATION

BY CATHY CHESTNUT

Change sets the course for the future— something that the venerable Ritz-Carlton clearly understands.

The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples first reinvented itself in 2021, when it debuted a 14,000-square-foot aquatic play area called The Reservoir. It features a 600-foot lazy river, kiddie splash zone, and three waterslides. Also poolside: Private cabanas at the adults-only pool and the Ría outdoor restaurant focused on diverse Latin American flavors from Mexico, Peru, Argentina, and wherever else executive chef Aldo Novoa Rodriguez takes his inspiration for seasonal menus. Whether you order the tacos de camarón estilo Baja stuffed with beerbattered shrimp or bife de chorizo 12-ounce New York steak, be sure to finish with the house-made flan with horchata ice cream and fresh, hot churros with abuelita chocolate sauce.

These new amenities are an inescapable draw for intergenerational families since there are likely to be non-golfers in the group. On a cloudless summer day, smiles were aplenty as grandparents emerged from the lazy river and siblings splashed down a tandem slide. Children stood excitedly at the free sunscreen stations in anticipation of afternoon fun.

But back to golfers. The resort is home to the Tiburón Golf Club’s pair of 18-hole signature Greg Norman courses that host the PGA Tour QBE Shootout and LPGA CME Group Tour Championship each year.

Another change came in December, when the resort announced its name change to The RitzCarlton Naples, Tiburón to encompass a broader

experience, according to the resort. In addition to tennis drills and fitness classes, these experiences include a virtual reality entertainment lounge, live music at the Bella Vista Lounge overlooking course greens on weekends, and complimentary, 45-minute “lifestyle” photo shoots. Morning people will appreciate the Early Bird Tour golf cart excursion along the certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary courses that kicks off at 7 a.m., before golfers tee up. An alternative is to drowse lazily before heading to the breakfast buffet at Lemonía—which evokes an Italianate bistro at this Mediterraneandesigned property—and then burning the calories on the resort’s bicycles.

There’ll soon be more in store for visitors to the 20-year-old resort. As part of its evolution, the guest rooms and suites are being updated (to be unveiled in 2024). The facade’s new paint job is expected to be completed this month and another restaurant by chef Rodriguez will open by year’s end.

At press time, the free shuttle to The Ritz-Carlton’s beach resort, which was undergoing a major renovation when it was badly damaged during Hurricane Ian in September 2022, was not operating. When it does reopen—scheduled for March— those staying at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón can revel and relax in cabanas along the Gulf of Mexico, yet another family attraction. (ritzcarlton. com/resortsofnaples) «

Clockwise from top right: Private adults-only cabanas; Bella Vista Lounge overlooking course greens; the 600-foot lazy river called Drift; Ría outdoor restaurant; an aerial view of The Reservoir, a 14,000-square-foot aquatic play area.

COURTESY OF THE RITZ-CARLTON NAPLES, TIBURÓN

JOURNEYS

HIGH ROAD

Seat of POWER

BY HOWARD WALKER

The number 707 has quite the provenance. It’s best associated with Boeing’s legendary jetliner, once flown around the globe by the likes of Pan Am, TWA, and John Travolta. It’s also the area code for some of the world’s greatest wineries, nestled in Napa, Vallejo, and Sonoma. Then there’s its spiritual significance as a so-called “angel number.”

But for lovers of high-performance luxury automobiles, 707 is going to have an even more mouthwatering significance: It’s the name of Aston Martin’s new flagship DBX SUV, the DBX707.

Here, the 707 signifies the spectacular power output of the twin-turbo V8 nuclear reactor lurking under that curvy hood. Over in Europe, it’s 707 PS, short for Pferdestärke, which is the metric measure of horsepower. Here in the United States, the output is actually 697 hp, though it’s as close to a nice,

round 700 horseys as not to matter.

That makes this firesnorting Aston the world’s most powerful luxury sport-utility vehicle. It’s more powerful than Lamborghini’s 657-hp Urus Performante, more potent than Porsche’s 670-hp Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid, and considerably beefier than Bentley’s 626-hp Bentayga Speed.

In the Aston, the source of all this power is an upgraded version of the DBX’s Mercedes-AMG-sourced 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. Equipped with deeper-breathing turbos, redesigned induction and exhaust systems, and a witch’s brew of engineering wizardry, it raises the stock DBX’s 542-hp output to that 707, sorry, 697-hp level. To add to the fun quota, the DBX’s 9-speed automatic transmission has been ditched in favor of a

rapid-shifting, AMG-sourced version with Race Launch Control for truly breathtaking, off-the-line acceleration.

To showcase all this force, the 707 gets some cool visual muscle to enhance that already drop-dead-gorgeous bodywork. The trademark Aston grille is now 27 percent bigger for ingesting even more engine-cooling H2O, and it’s surrounded by acres of carbonfiber intakes and splitters. At the rear, twin exhausts have been replaced by a quartet of menacing pipes, with a longer roof spoiler for better aero. Throw in a set of optional 23inch black rims—22s are standard—paint numbers on the doors, and this new Aston

ASTON MARTIN’S NEW DBX707 CLAIMS THE TITLE OF WORLD’S MOST POWERFUL SUV

wouldn’t look out of place on the front row at Sebring Raceway.

Climb aboard, buckle up, and punch the start button high in the center of the dash to hear that big V8 roar. And yes, this new 707 is insanely fast. Fast as in zero-to-60-mph sprints in a mere 3.1 seconds. Or zero to 100 in just 7.9 seconds. Top speed? A nontrivial 193 mph.

But the true beauty of this he-man Aston is its duality. Select the GT drive mode and the 707 calms and quietens for those times when you don’t want to drive like Mario. Of course, Sport and Sport+ are a click away to bring back the excitement.

What is most staggering is the 707’s sheer nimbleness and agility through curves. With air suspension and an electronic anti-roll system, body lean is almost eradicated. Throw it into a tight curve and it just sweeps around.

Inside, the cabin offers the kind of handcrafted luxury and style you’d expect from Aston Martin. There are acres of perforated,

POWER FILE

PRICE: FROM $239,086 ENGINE: 4.0-LITER TWIN-TURBO V8 POWER: 697 HP TORQUE: 663 LB-FT 0-60: 3.1 SECONDS TOP SPEED: 193 MPH LENGTH/ WIDTH: 198/78 INCHES WEIGHT: 4,940 POUNDS WHY WE LOVE IT: BECAUSE POWER, PERFORMANCE, AND LUXURY COME TOGETHER IN A TRULY BEAUTIFUL PACKAGE. V

double-stitched Bridge of Weir leather, genuine carbon fiber, and lots of choices for funky-colored seat panels.

Alas, Aston has to stick with lots of handme-down Mercedes technology, so the 10.3inch display looks and feels like something out of the Dark Ages. Plus, the teeny buttons on the wheel and center console were surely designed for the fingers of a 3-year-old.

As you might expect, all this power and performance doesn’t come cheap. The 707’s base sticker is $239,086, or around $50,000 more than a standard DBX. Check the boxes to add a few options, and the price can easily reach the $300,000 mark. But as for owning a load-carrying, family-hauling sport ute that really thinks it’s a supercar, that’s just priceless. «

The ultimate event destination in the heart of Southwest Florida, Vineyards Country Club provides a timeless, elegant setting to create lifelong memories with loved ones, friends and guests. Perfect for special occasions of all sizes and types, our newly renovated ballroom and flexible meeting spaces create a warm sense of arrival for weddings, showers, quinceañeras, bar & bat mitzvahs, golf events, fundraisers, corporate meetings, weddings and much more.

FOLLOW HOWARD WALKER’S THE WHEEL WORLD BLOG ON NAPLESILLUSTRATED.COM

HIGH SEAS

PEARL JAM

WE TAKE A WILD RIDE ON THE BRANDNEW PEARL 72 LUXURY YACHT

BY HOWARD WALKER

It’s not what you’d call a great day for boating. A feisty 25-knot blow is frothing up gnarly, 6-foot, white-capped swells in the Atlantic waters off Fort Lauderdale Beach. As we poke our nose out of Lauderdale’s cruise ship channel into the ocean, it feels like we’re in an episode of that Haulover Inlet show on YouTube, about to get slammed by confused rollers lunging every which way toward us.

Nothing to be concerned about here. We push forward on the throttles, feel the thrust of 3,200 horsepower, and in seconds we’re slicing and dicing the waves at an impressive 32 knots, water cascading off each side of that towering bow.

This is the sleek and sexy Pearl 72, an ultra-luxe, design-focused mini superyacht brimming with innovation. It is the latest debut from British boutique builder Pearl Yachts, which has been around since 1998 and today offers a lineup of flybridge motor yachts that includes a 62, an 80, and a 95. It pulled the wraps off this all-new 72-footer at last year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, and we were given the chance to put it to the test.

See the 72 at the dock outside Lauderdale’s Boatyard eatery and she exudes high style. She’s from the drawing board of longtime Pearl naval architect Bill Nixon, who seems to have focused on filling the superstructure with swaths of dark-tinted glass—from floor-to-ceiling saloon windows, to oversize windshield panes, to mile-long windows along the hull.

And the hull is full of cool inventions, like the massive transom garage (unheard of in a 72-footer) that is big enough to swallow a Williams 345 jet tender and a Jet Ski. There are also electric drop-down side sections just ahead of the swim platform where you can tie up those water toys.

Best seat in the house? That would be on the foredeck with its sofa, table, and vast sun pad big enough for an army of sun worshippers. Second best seat? Up on the flybridge behind the wheel.

So much thought went into the flybridge layout, with its full outdoor kitchen, U-shaped sofa alongside the helm, and even more sun pads at the back. Another cool feature is the industry-first, multi-positional,

powered sunshade in the flybridge with louvers reminiscent of extralarge Venetian blinds.

POWER FILE

PRICE: $3.4 MILLION BASE/$4.6 MILLION AS TESTED LENGTH: 72 FEET, 2 INCHES BEAM: 18 FEET, 10 INCHES DRAFT: 5 FEET, 7 INCHES WEIGHT: 55 TONS POWER: 2 X 1,600-HP MTU V10 (OPTIONAL) TOP SPEED: 32 KNOTS WHYWE LOVE IT: BECAUSE IT’S THE COOLEST, MOST INNOVATIVE 72-FOOTER OUT THERE.

But it’s inside the Pearl 72 where the style and innovation really shine. The whole interior is the creation of British designer to the stars Kelly Hoppen, who has channeled the vibe of a hip Manhattan loft. In the saloon, that means a central, full-beam galley with the dining area way forward under that huge glass windshield, plus a sofa and chairs close to the back deck and sliding rear doors to facilitate indoor/outdoor living. There’s another surprise on the lower deck: twin master cabins. They’re perfect for when two couples are cruising, so nobody ends up feeling like a second-class citizen.

Easing into the narrow canal leading out into the Intracoastal Waterway is a breeze thanks to the bow and stern thrusters. Standard power for the 72 is a pair of 1,400-hp MAN V12s, though most buyers are opting for the optional and highly desirable twin MTU V10s packing 1,600 hp apiece. Flat out they’ll punch the Pearl to that 32-knot top speed, or cruise serenely at 25 for a range of around 250 nautical miles.

The mastery of that hull design comes into its own when you spin the wheel hard over for a series of tight figure eights. Even in those big swells, the 72 feels rock solid, unperturbed, and super responsive to the helm.

This is a remarkable cruiser, with great style, form, and performance, all backed up by an unprecedented five-year warranty. You might call it a real pearl of joy. «

25 CELEBRATING YEARS OF NAPLES ILLUSTRATED

Prior to publishing what would become Naples Illustrated, potential readers were polled. From this a discovery was made: Readers wanted “a lifestyle-oriented magazine showcasing fashion, in-home features, behind-thescenes looks at people and events in the area, as well as articles on a wide array of subjects,” all within a high-quality and well-designed graphic format.

Our first cover epitomizes the brand that was to continue over the next 25 years. Strikingly simple, it showcased a beautiful brunette model, Jennifer Bini, who was “toasting new beginnings,” likely with a glass of buttery Chardonnay. Decked out in a strapless Martha Phillips sundress, a large-brimmed yellow hat, and oversize gold and pearl earrings, Bini was photographed by Maggie Seider. Her kohlrimmed eyes and sleek bob were courtesy of Franchesa Loy. Our twenty-fifth anniversary cover, shot on location at Campiello, re-creates the original for modern gazers. Model Monique Isringhausen, a Neapolitan and Miss Florida USA 2022, wears a Marchesa Notte sleeveless floral dress and gold and diamond David Webb earrings, both cour-

BY GAYLENE SALOMONS

tesy of Marissa Collections. While Isringhausen’s brimmed hat nods to the premiere cover, it does so in a contemporary manner, acknowledging the 2023 Pantone color of the year—Viva Magenta. Pink is extended elsewhere in the shot in the more au courant rosé she holds.

In his introductory letter on page 8, Naples Illustrated’s late founder and publisher, Ronald J. Woods, notes that “Florida’s Gulf Coast was attracting many of the country’s leading industrialists and chief executives for second homes or as their first choice for a utopian retirement.” Woods was one himself, having moved to Florida in 1989 after selling a plastics company in Detroit, Michigan. The magazine’s first editor, Lynne Groth, writes that quality of life is what enticed her to Naples in 1991 from Minnesota. While our city and community have witnessed immense change, what attracts individuals to Naples seems to be the same: wonderful weather, prime real estate, and a way of life that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere.

And, ultimately, Naples Illustrated has not strayed too far from what readers first requested either. There have been supplements and

MAKING ITS FIRST APPEARANCE ON BLEACHED WOOD COFFEE TABLES FROM PORT ROYAL TO PELICAN BAY IN JANUARY OF 1998, A JOURNEY THROUGH OUR PREMIERE ISSUE UNEARTHS MYRIAD INTERESTING AND ENTERTAINING TIDBITS

The current Naples Illustrated team: (back row) Meegan Wyatt, Kathy Beuttel, Jane Enos; (front row) Pamela Schultz, Gaylene Salomons.

CHARLIE MCDONALD PHOTOGRAPHY

Marchesa Notte sleeveless floral dress ($595), David Webb textured gold and diamond earrings ($38,500), Marissa Collections, Third Street South, Naples, marissacollections.com

AUDREY

SNOW OWEN

changes along the way. On the cosmetic side, glossier paper, technology for higher resolution photos, and about half an inch in width separate the magazine from then and now. As for staff, there have been additions and departures, but one thing remains: an enduring commitment to bring readers an exceptional luxury-lifestyle publication that evolves with the times, with a goal that each issue be better than the one preceding it.

Savvy People, Cool Things, and Great Places

One of the first editorial sections of the magazine focused on savvy individuals, places, and things. The same holds true for the Insider section of today’s magazine.

We learn, in 1998, that Southwest Florida was about to enter the ice age with a new sports arena being built midway between Naples and Fort Myers. A brief article relates that the arena is “just a slap shot off Interstate 75 at exit 19” (known today as exit 123). Today, the arena is swathed in blocks of bright yellow paint, and the Hertz Corporation has nam-

ing rights. Still the same size, it is now home to the professional minor league ice hockey team The Florida Everblades and hosts a bevy of musicians every year, from Reba McEntire to Marc Anthony.

In 1998, the City of Naples celebrated its diamond jubilee (75 years of existence). On display at the Collier County Museum that year were 118 stuffed creatures, known as Ty Beanie Babies. They came to market in 1994 and sold for around $5 each. Currently, there are five Collier County Museums with displays that focus on the area’s rich and salient history. Among these five is the Marco Island Historical Museum, which displays the world-famous Key Marco Cat, a pre-Columbian Native American art piece discovered on Marco Island in the late 1800s.

In other news, an 800-square-foot Chanel boutique, exclusive to Florida’s Gulf Coast, opened inside the Saks Fifth Avenue at Waterside Shops. Although the boutique has been remodeled and moved to a more prominent location within the popular Saks Fifth Avenue

store, it is still the sole Chanel boutique on the West Coast—proving that Neapolitans have always been lovers—and consumers— of luxury fashions.

The Harmon-Meek Gallery, established in Naples in 1964, relocated in 1998 from Third Street South to Fifth Avenue South to a 4,800-square-foot octagonal-shaped gallery designed by architect Al French. The familyowned gallery has since moved back to Third Street and continues to specialize in American fine art.

In 1998, Norman Love was the pastry chef at The Ritz-Carlton. At the time, there was only one Ritz-Carlton in Naples, so there was no reason to use distinguishing adjectives, like “beach” or “golf.” Now, Love is one of the area’s most well-known and respected confectioners, and his eponymous line of confections can be purchased at locations up and down the Gulf Coast.

Cameos and Dining Out

In the Cameo pages of the magazine, lo-

Clockwise from top left: The Florida Everblades at Hertz Arena; expert confectioner Norman Love continues to be a fixture in NI; the family-owned Harmon-Meek Gallery.

Above: NI Cameo page featuring Tamara Ahwee

Right: Marco Island Historical Museum

COURTESY

OF HERTZ

ARENA

COURTESY OF NORMAN LOVE

COURTESY OF JULIANA MEEK

COURTESY OF COLLIER COUNTY MUSEUMS

cal subjects were featured. Daphne Nikolopoulos was one of the contributing writers. Today, she serves as editorial director for Palm Beach Media Group and also is the editor in chief of our East Coast sister publication—Palm Beach Illustrated. Twenty-five years ago, Nikolopoulos wrote about Tamara Ahwee, describing her as “an ascending actress and on-air talent.” At the time of publication, Ahwee, age 31, was the vivacious blonde hired to pop out of the sunroof of a sporty red Toyota in a national television advertising campaign.

In “Pertly Persian,” Chelle Koster Walton wrote a restaurant review after her dining experience at Bha!Bha! Persian Bistro, then located at the Pavilion Shopping Center on Vanderbilt Beach Road. Walton shares that the traditional fare did not disappoint; she dined on lamb kebabs and duck fesenjune After eventually finding its way to a coveted Fifth Avenue South location, the restaurant endures and is still a favorite today. And yes, duck fesenjune is still on the menu.

In “Turning Tables,” Walton discusses the constantly changing local restaurant scene and shares that McCabe’s Irish Pub & Grill had just opened in the “stylish new Inn on Fifth.” Proprietor Phil McCabe insisted on Irish authenticity and sent away to Dublin for his very own pub; it arrived in containers and was assembled by Irish journeymen. The pub was open for 16 years. Now in its place is Ocean Prime, the nationally acclaimed, modern American restaurant and bar operated by Cameron Mitchell Restaurants.

Feature Stories

The health of Naples Bay warranted a six-page article; written by Steven R. Biller, “Who Will Save Naples Bay?” delves into the question. Article contributors included David Guggenheim, then president and CEO of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, and Mike Simonik, environmental policy manager for the Conservancy. (Simonik eventually became the long-time and passionate executive director of Humane Society Naples; he is now

retired.) The article made a strong statement: “Somebody has to take responsibility for creating a system that revives and nurtures Naples Bay as the population grows around it.”

As Naples continues to experience development, the health of our environment is no doubt discussed even more today, especially when it comes to water-quality and water-quantity matters. Various nonprofit organizations are doing good work in this area, including The Everglades Foundation, Collier County Waterkeeper, the Southwest Florida Water Management District, Captains for Clean Water, and of course the almost 60-year-old Conservancy of Southwest Florida, now under the leadership of Rob Moher. These entities and others—along with legions of local volunteers—continue efforts to protect Southwest Florida’s unique natural environment and quality of life.

In an article by Ted Curtis, we read that Bay Colony Golf Club in Pelican Marsh hosted the eleventh annual Senior PGA Tour, which was played in 1998 as the LG Championship.

Top right: Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary boardwalk; Right: Rob Moher, current president and CEO of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida

Right: Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro

The Everglades Foundation is one of many impactful organizations making a long-term difference in the health of Southwest Florida’s environment.

COURTESY OF THE EVERGLADES FOUNDATION

COURTESY OF CORKSCREW SWAMP SANCTUARY

COURTESY OF ROB MOHER

Players included Arnold Palmer, Chi Chi Rodriguez, and Lee Trevino; Gil Morgan took home the $180,000 purse. Golf fans continue to flock to Southwest Florida to both play and spectate at annual tournaments, including The Chubb Classic and the QBE Shootout. The last PGA QBE Shootout golf tournament was played at the Tiburón Golf Club in December 2022, attracting such players as Nelly Korda, Jason Day, and Lexi Thompson. (Tom Hoge and Sahith Theegala were the winners.)

In the Spring/Summer 2021 edition of the Southwest Florida Relocation Guide, published by Palm Beach Media Group, Editor Cathy Chestnut remarks on the golf courses of Collier County, saying: “Thanks to the golf course—and real estate—building boom of the 1980s, ’90s, and early 2000s, Southwest Florida for years has been able to claim No. 1 status in the nation for golf holes per capita.”

The real estate market in 1998 was also rampant; the first line in an article about the state of real estate in 1998 reads: “There’s

no doubt about it: Naples and Southwest Florida constitute one of the hottest housing markets in the country. In short, we have been discovered—and we’re not likely to fade from view any time soon.” While prices dipped in Naples following the housing crash in 2008—as they did elsewhere nationally—the real estate industry continues to thrive here. Year after year, Naples is ranked as one of the best places to live in the world. In many cases, real estate prices, spurred by a heavy increase in demand, have doubled within the past two years.

Business Insights

In local business news, we learn that Paul and Suzanne DeBruyne acquired the Naples Art Gallery in 1998 from long-time Naples’ resident Warren C. Nelson and his partner, William B. Spink, who were credited with setting the tone of the Old Naples art community. Today, there are numerous art galleries along both Fifth Avenue South and

Third Street South showcasing both worldrenowned and local artists.

The Naples Princess Cruise Line operated out of the Old Naples Seaport. In 1998, a second ship—the Naples Royal Princess, a 90-foot yacht that accommodated up to 144 guests was launched. David Norris was one of the original members of the Naples Princess team; he helped design all the boats, including the current Naples Princess, prior to retiring. Jenny Gezella, president of the Naples Princess, currently reports that Norris still “captains with us seasonally two days a week. He has been with the company since 1994. He just couldn’t retire.” In 2018, the Hoffmann Family of Companies purchased Naples Princess Cruises.

Among the assorted bit of news, we learn that Gerri Moll was appointed CEO for Collier/Lee market, Nations Bank Florida. Today the Florida native leads a team of executives representing eight Bank of America business

lines and serves as the Southwest

From top left: Phil McCabe in front of the demolition of McCabe’s Irish Pub & Grill at the Inn on Fifth; the new Ocean Prime restaurant and bar on the former pub site. Right: The Naples art scene continues to thrive, with prominent gallerists such as Paul and Suzanne DeBruyne and Aldo Castillo (far right) appearing throughout the years.

David Norris (left), one of the original members of the Naples Princess team, still captains seasonally two days a week.

COURTESY OF JOSEPH MCCABE

SAMANTHA BLOOM

COURTESY OF NAPLES PRINCESS CRUISES

COURTESY OF ALDO CASTILLO

COURTESY OF NAPLES PRINCESS CRUISES

Florida president of the bank. Dolph von Arx starred in an ad for Northern Trust, and five area youths were awarded Take Stock in Children scholarships thanks to a program founded by Barnett Bank. The statewide nonprofit program was founded in 1995 to help at-risk and low-income children achieve academic success. The program currently serves approximately 15,000 students each year.

Social Observer

A favorite section to see who went where and why, the social pages reveal that Neapolitans enjoyed attending parties, celebrating causes, and gathering to raise money as much as they do today. In 1998, feng shui was discussed at a luncheon to benefit The Immokalee Foundation; Bob Pearson was recognized as the Collier Building Industry Association Builder of the Year; and 200 local VIPs attended the Naples Illustrated launch party at The Registry Resort (now the Naples Grande Beach Resort), celebrating the “good

life” during a reception and luncheon.

Other event photos included the 1997 Angel Ball, also held at The Registry Resort—a description of the event notes that “more than 600 agents joined in an evening of action and romance” to raise money for The Community School of Naples Scholarship Program. On a separate page titled “Seen Around Town,” wellknown Neapolitans were photographed at special events and included in the magazine.

Because of their popularity, the social pages (now called “RSVP”) have relocated to the front of the book; each issue showcases 10 to 12 photos from a handful of events. Here, we see friends and local celebrities dressed in gowns, tuxedos, golf wear, or themed attire, attending luncheons, golf tournaments, galas, and auctions to raise both awareness and money for important causes.

The very last page of the book was called “Last Laugh.” Freelancer Rick Compton details his experience with a personal trainer and his punishment for eating a blue M&M

(a lecture you might still get from one of the many local personal trainers who watch our waistlines every day.) Over the years, the parting page of the magazine has featured local philanthropists, interviews with local residents, photography created by local artists, and other highlights. New this year is “Tail End,” which features a photo and description of an animal found at the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens.

What will Naples Illustrated look like in 2048? Thankfully, to be human is to be curious. Because of this, readers will still want to know about their fellow Neapolitans, see inside each other’s homes, learn about the latest trends, glean what’s going on in the community, discern how much money was raised, and discover where to make their next restaurant reservations. Unless the antiaging doctors overachieve, we can confidently predict that the current staff will be retired—living the good life and toasting a talented new crew at the helm. «

NI has showcased and supported creative, leading-edge fashion, style, designers, and boutiques throughout the decades.

THE COURSE STAYING

Golf course architect DANA FRY has been pursuing his passion for 40 years and continues to discover greatness on the greens

BY GAYLENE SALOMONS

“I haven’t worked a day in my life,” Dana Fry tells me with unabashed enthusiasm.

Who is Dana Fry you ask? A quick google search conjures entries that read like the curriculum vitae of a very accomplished man. We meet for lunch on the clubhouse patio at Naples National Golf Club on a picture-perfect day. After talking for two and a half hours, I conclude that the first entry that answers my query proves to be a fitting description of the

Left: World-renowned golf course architect Dana Fry at play at Pebble Beach Golf Links

Inset: Naples National Golf Club’s hole 3 JAMES HAEFNER

JOANN DOST

affable gentleman: “Fry is one of the most creative and successful golf course architects in the world.” (golfpass.com)

Born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, Fry participated in the usual childhood sports, but freely admits: “I was the biggest nerd.” A dominant golf figure in the 1970s and early ’80s was Tom Watson, also from Kansas City, a sports hero Fry grew up idolizing. Fry played high school golf and earned a

partial golf scholarship; he attended the University of Arizona (UA) for three years, from 1980 to 1983, studying business. He played on the university’s golf team and considered himself a mediocre player: “I knew I wasn’t good enough to play on tour,” he admits. However, while on UA’s men’s golf team, Fry shot an impressive 64 at Randolph Park Golf Course in Tucson. It was a course record. Press and publicity followed.

In August 1983, Andy Banfield, a lead designer for Tom Fazio, recognized Fry from a newspaper photo one night in a Tucson bar. The two engaged in conversation. (Fry admits he did not know who Tom Fazio was.) After introductions and discussions, Fry, who was about to start his senior year of college, decided to take a semester off and accepted a job.

In the following months, Fry spent days flagging cacti for transplanting and assisting

Banfield in the construction of the Ventana Canyon Golf & Racquet Club in Tucson. Fry remembers the grunt work: “I was taught all facets of the business—I even painted bunkers.” Eventually, Fry came clean with his parents about his decision to quit school and pursue a career in golf course design. They were “very upset,” he recalls. “I never graduated from college, but boy did I get a great education.”

Fry seemed to be in the right place to meet the right people at the right time to gain experience in the world of golf course architecture.

His second job with Fazio was in South Carolina at Callawassie Island off Hilton Head, where Fry had the fortune of living next door to and working alongside Mike Strantz, the late golf course architect who worked with Tom Fazio from 1979 to 1987. Strantz was part of Fazio’s construction

crew on Moss Creek in Hilton Head. From Strantz, Fry learned to drive a bulldozer, create shapes, and earthscape. “I learned to see what Mike saw,” Fry explains. “From Andy, I learned how to think big.”

During his five-year tenure with Fazio, Fry participated in designing courses such as Wade Hampton Golf Club in Cashiers, North Carolina; Barton Creek Country Club in Austin, Texas; and Lake Nona Golf and Country

Club in Orlando, Florida. No longer content to move dirt and flag trees though, Fry decided he wanted to be the guy in charge. He began searching for new opportunities.

In 1988, while attending a national golf course superintendents show in Houston, Texas, Fry was chatting with late golf course designers Pete and Alice Dye about the possibility of a Fry and Dye alliance. Through a chance meeting on an escalator, the Dyes in-

troduced Fry to Mike Hurdzan, a partner in the firm of Kidwell & Hurdzan, who had designed more than 100 courses across the Midwest.

When the Dyes exited, Hurdzan and Fry continued talking. Eventually Hurdzan asked Fry to put career decisions on hold and meet with Chris Haney and Scott Abbott, founders of the Trivial Pursuit board game, who were scouting designers to help create a golf course near Toronto, Canada.

Cost was not an issue for the newly minted Canadian trivia millionaires—music to the ears of any golf course designer intent on building his résumé. Fry decided to join Hurdzan’s firm and lead the charge on the Devil’s Pulpit project. When the owners wanted to build a second course—The Devil’s Paintbrush—Fry moved his young family to Canada, from Columbus, Ohio, for the duration of the project. Today, both courses are ranked among Cana-

Clockwise from left: Naples National Golf Club; aerial view of Naples National Golf Club; Fry at Pine Valley Golf Club in New Jersey.

EVAN SCHILLER PHOTOGRAPHY

EVAN SCHILLER PHOTOGRAPHY

JOHN HENEBRY

dian Golf Magazine’s top 100.

Fry first visited Naples in 1992 when Hurdzan’s Columbus-based firm was selected as the course architects of the private, member-owned Naples National Golf Club. The founder was attempting to get the course ready for the LPGA’s World Championship of Women’s Golf in October 1993. Frye recalls the stressful time: “To build a golf course, after permits are granted, you need up to 18 months— then you need at least three months for the vegetation to grow in.” Amazingly, the project was completed on time, and today, the private golf club in East Naples is touted as a challenging course designed for the serious golfer. Golf Digest designated it as runner-up for Best New Golf Course in 1993.

In 1997, Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry entered an official partnership, calling their newly formed company Hurdzan/Fry Environmental Golf Design. Hurdzan, who holds three master’s degrees and a PhD in environmental plant physiology, became the technical expert. Fry contributed his ambition, growing business acumen, and imagination.

By 2000, Fry was spending most of his time in Naples. The Hurdzan/Fry team secured a contract to design The Old Collier Golf Club

course but was replaced by Tom Fazio, Fry says, “because the owners thought they needed a bigger name.”

The Hurdzan/Fry team began adding prestigious assignments to its résumé and was steadily expanding its portfolio when it signed on to design Calusa Pines Golf Club course, an ultra-exclusive golf facility planned in North Naples. The Calusa Pines site had no natural topography; it was an opportunity for Hurdzan/Fry to exploit creativity on a project encompassing 300 acres.

In 1997, the firm completed the Sand Barrens Golf Club course in New Jersey, a course on Cape May that was largely built on flat ground. It was at Sand Barrens that the designers proved what they could do

with flat land. And it was at the equally flat Calusa Pines site that Fry pushed for bigger and higher; a massive ridge was built on 15 acres of the property, meaning a small portion of the course lies at one of the highest land points in South Florida at around 50 feet above sea level. The course officially opened in November 2001 and dazzled golfers with its scale, complexity, and beauty. The course consistently ranks as one of the top 100 golf courses in America by Golf Digest

Together, the partners dedicated their expertise to numerous other projects, most located in North America, with a couple of jobs completed early in the new millennium in southern Italy.

Jason Straka, a Cornell University graduate

Above: Phoenix Hill Golf Club in Anji, China; Right: Shelter Harbor Golf Club in Rhode Island

PAUL HUNDLEY

LARRY LAMBRECHT

COURTESY OF FRY/STRAKA GLOBAL GOLF DESIGN

with a degree in landscape architecture and a master’s degree in agronomy, was an integral member of the team since 1995. He helped the company build landmark courses like Calusa Pines, Erin Hills in Wisconsin—site of the 2017 U.S. Open—and Shelter Harbor in Rhode Island.

“Getting work is the hardest part of our job,” Fry explains. Eager to continue making his mark, he focused on the global market. In 2006, contacts at Golf Magazine invited Fry to speak in Beijing, China. Two years later, Fry was living in Hong Kong, designing courses in Mainland China, and “having the best time of my life—I love adventure,” he says.

In 2012, the Hurdzan/Fry partnership ended. “The Hurdzans had become like family, and the breakup, although in hindsight was the right

Top and inset: Erin Hills Golf Course in Wisconsin

To build a golf course, after permits are granted, you need up to 18 months—then you need at least three months for the vegetation to grow in.” —Dana Fry

“

PAUL HUNDLEY

MASTER PLANS

Golf course designers plan and design every part of a golf course. Most start with nothing more than a love of the game. But, we asked three golf course designers to answer this question: Do you need to play golf to be a golf course designer?

MICHAEL HURDZAN (hurdzangolf.com)

Hurdzan grew up around golf. His father was a club teaching pro; still today he plays. So does his 99-year-old mother.

It is a myth that it makes you a better designer or that it gives you more insight. Someone might eat well and often, but that doesn’t make them a better cook, nor does driving a lot make one a better mechanic. Knowing and playing the game is important, but you also need to know about the mechanics of green construction, drainage, earthmoving, golf course safety, grasses, sand and soils, bunker liners, drawing plans, writing specifications, and even contractual law.

JASON STRAKA (frystraka.com)

Straka has played golf since age 5. Most of his family and friends are avid golfers, and the game connects them.

I only know of one famous golf course architect who was not an avid golfer. He played casually, but not often. I believe that you do need to play golf to be a golf course designer. You rely not only upon your own experiences playing golf, but you watch everyone else who plays with you. You need to experience a course, its ebbs and flows, nuances, and so much more. Designing a golf course is far more than an engineering task.

DANA FRY (frystraka.com)

I do believe you need to understand the game of golf and play it to be a golf course designer. Understanding golf’s history is one thing, but if you don’t play the game at all, how can you understand shot values, strategy to help make a great hole, creating the correct balance of holes going in all directions, and what a good flow of holes is?

To be a golf course architect you must also understand turfgrass issues, drainage, how to move dirt, hide cart paths from view while playing the hole, the permitting process, how to draft plans and documents, engineering issues, how to deal with complex sites, complex clients, egos, crazy amounts of travel, and so much more.

thing to do,” was, according to Fry, “the biggest struggle in my career.” That same year, after working together for 20 years, Fry and Straka combined their talents to form Fry/ Straka Global Golf Course Design.

When I speak with Hurdzan about his former partner, he tells me “Dana is a rare and unique person.” He shares that Fry is more committed to golf than anyone he’s met in 75 years around the game. “Only his family and health are more highly valued,” Hurdzan says. “For Fry, every new golf course design is more of a masterpiece than the one he previously completed. Every project explores new

territory, and Fry gives each one so much personal attention that is always spectacular, fresh, and often trend-setting.”

Straka lives in Dublin, Ohio, and has now worked with Fry for almost 30 years. “He is much more than a business partner to me,” Straka says. “He is part of my family, and I am part of his.”

“Dana is perhaps the most loyal and devoted person I know,” Straka continues. “This not only includes his family and friends but our business associates and clients too—with the vast majority becoming life-long friends. Much of that stems from Dana’s love of his

EVAN SCHILLER PHOTOGRAPHY

EVAN SCHILLER PHOTOGRAPHY

craft, his love for golf and how it brings people together, and his passion for travel and meeting new people and exploring new cultures. Saying that Dana is passionate about what he does and how he does it would be a vast understatement.”

Fry moved back to the United States in 2013 and settled in Boca Raton, but he often visited Southwest Florida. One trip was particularly memorable when friends acted as matchmakers and introduced him to Trisha Kent, who became his second wife. He is the father of three children, grandfather to five, and stepfather to two.

Now, Fry estimates that 75 percent of new course construction is outside of the United States. There aren’t many countries in the world Fry hasn’t been. “So far, I’ve traveled to 122,” he remarks. “The job involves crazy amounts of travel,” he says, but Fry reminds me he loves the international business aspect of his job.

The firm boasts projects in Vietnam, Brazil, Mexico, and Dubai. It is, however, still in demand on U.S. soil: In 2018, it broke ground on its biggest project so far in the United States, the Union League National Golf Club located in southern New Jersey. In June of 2022, the Boca West Country Club in Boca

Raton hired the Fry/Straka firm to redevelop four courses over the next six years.

And spoiler alert: There are rumors of a grandiose golf course coming soon to Southwest Florida—promising to be Fry’s biggest and best project yet. A developer who owns more than 1,000 acres of land on a property known as Big Cypress Ranch on the border of Collier and Hendry counties has a vision. Along with Fry’s passion, the proposed private golf club will push the Fry and Straka team to new heights. If so, Fry may finally find the time to play a few rounds on the many golf courses he has added his signature to. «

Inset: Fry on the course at Pebble Beach Golf Links in California

Opposite page: Jason Straka (left) with Fry at Union League National Golf Club in New Jersey

JOANN DOST

SHEDDINGECONOMIC LIGHT

BySethSOFFIANPhotographybyHEIDISCHUMANN

Economist Michael Darda advises live on major business networks, giving his thoughts on the latest market indicators and trends—all from his backyard in Naples

Credit for the high-tech shed belongs to Darda’s wife, Meghan Fitzgerald, a health care executive who had it installed after Darda routinely was interrupted by renovations in the couple’s home following their 2018 move to Naples.

The camera is on again in “Hangar Gris” to discuss the weightiest of matters—that is, the nation’s financial future— but Naples resident Michael Darda couldn’t look more at ease or at home. After all, he’s operating from a sophisticated, gray “he-shed” in his own backyard.

Dressed in a navy polo shirt with his 6-year-old Weimaraner, Claus, resting at his side, Darda, chief economist and market strategist at a Connecticut-based firm, MKM Partners, that itself serves industry heavyweights, calmly outlines his forecast for yet another national news entity.

His surroundings for interviews—with the likes of CNBC, Bloomberg, Yahoo, and others—in Hangar Gris, named for Claus’s regal gray color, is air-conditioned, wired for highspeed internet, and equipped with a massive monitor and “tricked-out” Bloomberg terminal on which Darda, 49, does his research and writing. There’s also the couch, from which Claus is routinely seen snoozing in the background of interviews, an overhead bed for power naps, and a small refrigerator for evening refreshments.

“We just had constant racket,” Darda explains. “I had no real quiet space to retreat to. I think she just got tired of hearing me complain about it.” Darda’s workspace is more than comfortable. It also reveals key elements to his success blending exceptional quantitative research and analysis skills with qualitative communication and people skills.

“He’s very good analytically, a real student of history, with deep knowledge,” says Tom Luddy, a part-time Naples resident since 2011 and the retired former chief investment officer at J.P. Morgan. “But he was always very good at pulling it all together and communicating it. Sometimes you have people who are very analytical but have a very hard time passing on to other people their viewpoints.”

Luddy appreciated Darda’s professional perspectives, including his deep historical knowledge, so greatly that he still seeks Darda’s input today with his own personal finances.

Michael Darda uses Hangar Gris—a high-tech shed in his backyard in Naples— to conduct expert live interviews. Claus, his 6-year-old Weimaraner, is a frequent guest.

“What I always found valuable about Mike, I always came out of meetings feeling I learned something that was additive to my thinking, which is what I cared about,” Luddy adds. “In our business you’re going to be right, but you’re going to be wrong a fair amount, too. What I really valued was someone that always made me think better, and he was very much someone who helped me think better.”

PARALLEL PERSPECTIVES

A Madison, Wisconsin, native who graduated with honors in economics and public relations from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Darda spent several years out of school working in the Wisconsin state legislature, giving him added insight about how the legislative process and policy decisions can affect markets.

“It was a great entrée to a career in research on Wall Street because I was writing and doing analytical work, helping with budgets and writing speeches and letters,” he notes.

In the late 1990s, Darda landed his first job in the financial world when conservative economist Jude Wanniski saw Darda’s debate comments on Wanniski’s own writings on the internet and invited him to join his firm, Polyconomics, to cover western Europe and the introduction of the euro.

“I had no background in it. But I had a background in writing and analytical work,” says Darda, crediting Polyconomics for giving him critical client access he wouldn’t have had in a large firm. “It was a great stepping stone. I was able to start interfacing with clients right away and start building relationships.”

Darda moved to MKM Partners a few years later to

Above: An item from Darda’s collection of memorabilia, books, and other material tracking historical trends

A lot of the analytical work I was doing then was based on credit market signals. That’s kind of when I built my entire following.”

“

NI: What is the broader outlook for 2023?

Darda: I’m concerned we likely will have a recession sometime in 2023, given that the Fed has been tightening aggressively.

What is an indicator investors might want to keep an eye on?

The yield curve. That is the difference between long-term and short-term interest rates. When short rates are above long rates, the yield curve is “inverted.” This has been one of the most powerful leading indicators of a recession historically. The good news is, inflation should come down with slowing demand.

How much of a correction, if one indeed is coming, can be expected, and will it generally require most investors to make changes to their portfolios?

Usually, the stock market will bottom out about two-thirds of the way through a recession, not before it even starts. That means we could see more stock market weakness in front of us. But it will be impossible to time it. Most investors, if they try, will likely miss it and underperform as markets eventually recover. The best advice for most people is not to try to time the market. Instead, stay invested, remain calm, and be diversified, meaning the customary stocks, bonds, and some cash.

help establish a research department for the then-small firm that was mostly an equity trading shop. But, when the housing bubble burst in 2008, demand for Darda and MKM’s expertise in credit markets suddenly soared.

“A lot of the analytical work I was doing then was based on credit market signals,” he says. “That’s kind of when I built my entire following.”

MKM, which was acquired by Roth Capital in August, has only seen its stature and client list of hedge funds, mutual funds, family offices, endowments, pension plans, and more continue to grow. Darda’s studied, human approach meanwhile hasn’t changed.

In his shed are memorabilia, books, and other material tracking historical trends, including pieces that speak to the economic impacts of World War I, the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic, and the Great Depression.

“It’s a matter of studying business-cycle history, and then having enough of a feel for markets to be able to understand about parallels,” he says. “Then, if you can present that to clients in a really clear and understandable way, and they see there’s insights that might help them, it can be very powerful.”

Away from work, Darda’s analytical mind has helped him earn a black belt in the martial art Brazilian jiu-jitsu. “People call jiu-jitsu human chess,” he says. “It’s very analytical.”

But Darda, who trains at Evolution MMA in Naples, is equally drawn to the sport’s camaraderie. That includes its ability to humanize combatants from endless different backgrounds.

“We’re all focused on something that binds us together, a common goal, and we have to trust each other because it is dangerous,” he says. “I think it demonstrates that a lot of what divides people is trivial stuff.”

In addition to his jiu-jitsu talents, Darda is dexterous with a longboard skateboard. And as a couple, Darda and Fitzgerald bask in all that Naples has to offer—from runs on the beach and swims in the Gulf of Mexico to biking and ample sampling of area restaurant fare.

They’ve also recently taken up golf. The course is one more place Darda, not surprisingly, can’t help but balance both hemispheres of his brain. “If you’re not playing well, don’t complain. Don’t have a temper tantrum,” he says. “If you can be unflappable, good things start to happen.” «

THE 2023 MARKET OUTLOOK WITH MICHAEL DARDA, chief economist and market strategist at MKM Partners

Darda with his wife, Meghan Fitzgerald, and Claus at home in Naples

Longboard skateboarding and jiu-jitsu are among Darda’s preferred leisure pursuits.

SPOT ON

LOUIS VUITTON AND JAPANESE ARTIST YAYOI KUSAMA JOIN FORCES FOR A

COLLECTION FIT FOR THE PRINCESS OF POLKA DOTS

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY RIOCAM

All clothing and accessories by Louis Vuitton x Yayoi Kusama, Louis Vuitton, Waterside Shops, Naples, us.louisvuitton.com

Fashion editor: Katherine Lande

Shot by NI on location at the sculpture garden at The Underline, Miami

Stylist:

Zlata Kotmina Model: Quiyona, The Source Models Hair and makeup: Gina Simone, Creative Management, Miami Car provided by: We Are Curated, Miami, @wearecurated

FINAL BELL Toward the

By KAREN FELDMAN

Kamela Patton has wrapped up her longtime career as superintendent for Collier County Public Schools, but school’s not out for this lifelong learner and adventure seeker who has exciting plans ahead

It was a job as a personal assistant to the Bee Gees that lured Kamela Patton to Florida.

She eventually made her way into the field of education, rising to the job of Collier County superintendent of schools, a position she held for nearly 12 years. Patton considers her recent departure from the school system akin to a graduation—much like that of the class of 2023 students who entered first grade in 2011 when she took the job and who will move on this spring. Patton does not call this retirement, however.

“I don’t use the word retirement,” she says.

“That means you’re not doing anything. Like Serena Williams, I’m going to pursue other things.”

She said a surprising number of “other things” have presented themselves. Patton understands that interesting opportunities—like the job with the famed Gibbs brothers, which involved extensive travel and led to a lifelong friendship with the singers—present themselves to those open to them.

“It’s about not being in too much of a hurry,” Patton says. But, she looks forward to helping and supporting other leaders and school dis-

Photography by AUDREY SNOW OWEN

Shot on location at Collier County Public Schools, Naples

tricts across the nation in some capacity.

She says unequivocally that she also plans to remain in Naples.

“I came for the job, but I’m staying by choice,” she says. “It’s hard not to fall in love with Naples and Collier [County] and the people. I’ve made so many lifetime friends here.”

Patton’s years leading the county’s school system included challenges like hurricanes Irma and Ian, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the security concerns prompted by the shooting at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland.

“Somebody gets something like this once in their career, but all of that in five years on top of the state of education in America today, and the shortage of teachers,” Patton says, that’s an immense load for one leader to handle.

Nonetheless, she’s racked up a long list of successes.

The one of which she is most proud? The dramatic rise in the county’s graduation rate. When she arrived, it was 72.5 percent. Today, that number stands at 92.7 percent.

“We’re an economic driver,” she says. “We’re having more kids graduate so they can go on to technical colleges, go to colleges and universities because they have that fundamental diploma.”

She says that is especially impressive when you consider the county’s 48,000 students speak 107 languages and, for 54 percent, English is not the first language spoken in these students’ homes.

“The improved graduation rate affects people’s lives,” Patton says. “Especially among our migrant population, it’s breaking cycles of generations of poverty. Now the next younger sibling knows that their brother did it and they can do it, too. When we collectively have had that kind of an impact, to me that’s phenomenal.”

Dave Stump, a lifelong Naples resident who attended school here, became a teacher and eventually a principal at several Naples schools. Just as he planned to retire, Patton

Kamela Patton’s memorable tenure as Collier County’s superintendent of schools resulted in numerous victories, including a graduation rate of 92.2 percent.

BRAGGING RIGHTS

HERE ARE A FEW OF KAMELA PATTON’S ACCOMPLISHMENTS AS COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT

Building the first new high school in 19 years (scheduled to open in August), paying cash for the school, and saving taxpayers $41 million in interest

Establishing a school system set to be debt-free in fewer than five years

Ensuring debate, band, chorus, orchestra, and theater opportunities exist in all county middle and high schools

Earning the 2021 Naples Daily News Outstanding Citizen of the Year honor

talked him into becoming her deputy superintendent for a year. That ultimately became six years.

“It’s amazing,” Stump notes, “all the things she did,” starting off by visiting every school in the county and holding 164 evening events with a wide range of community groups.”

“It was a very long year, but she’s very good at communicating with people—so upbeat—and I kept telling her and myself it would pay off. And it did,” he says.

That tireless pace continued throughout her years as superintendent.

“She doesn’t slow down. She has that ability to make connections,” Stump says. “She’s an excellent leader. You may not always agree with her, but the end results speak for themselves. The school system has made great strides.”

Another high point was being named Superintendent of the Year by the Florida Association of District School Superintendents and being one of four finalists for National Superintendent of the Year for AASA, The School Superintendents Association.

“It shines a light on all of the community partners, on all of our outstanding teachers, our great kids, our employers, our parents,” she says. “You don’t do this alone.”

She treasures those victories and experiences she’s been fortunate enough to have as a result, including the district’s appearance on the Today show and other national news outlets, marching in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and in the presidential inaugural parade with Collier County band students, and playing the flute in the Naples Philharmonic Pro-Am Concert alongside professional musicians.

“I got to do a lot of fun things–the first day of school, riding on a school bus, being a crossing guard with the sheriff,” Patton says. “Everybody doesn’t get to do those things.”

What will she miss most?

“By far the kids,” she says. “You get to directly impact the kids. But also the teachers, the school leadership teams, the district staff, our cabinet. They all make it happen.”

Nonetheless, Patton looks forward to enjoying the area, the things that attracted her to Collier County from her previous job in the MiamiDade school system.

She plans to enjoy some of the attractions and cultural treasures the region boasts but she hasn’t gotten her fill of because her schedule was filled with official commitments. Among the to-dos on her list: painting and cooking classes, golf, trying pickleball, fishing, movies, plays, art shows, and events at Artis–Naples.

“The arts in this town are just phenomenal,” she says.

She expects to attend events she has been to in a working capacity. “I’ve served at Empty Bowls and Farm City BBQ but never attended them,” she says.

“I love to travel. I love to take pictures. I have 70,000 pictures on my phone, and that doesn’t count the zillion old-fashioned ones I’m working on getting digitized. On my tombstone I already know what I want:

‘A quality life is made of quality memories.’ That’s what pictures do. You can’t replicate those.”

Stump expects his former boss to continue to be adventurous, something he says, “shows she’s willing to take a little risk to get great results down the road.”

He recalls cautioning her repeatedly to take care of herself when she would head off on adventures that included skydiving, swimming with stingrays, hot-air ballooning, sand surfing in Abu Dhabi, ziplining in Costa Rica, and braving Hemingway Days in Key West.

A huge fan of the British royals, she’s attended the Royal Ascot several times and saw Queen Elizabeth, Princess Diana, and then-Prince Charles. She’s wandered the state in an RV seeking out spots from the book Weird Florida

A self-described techie, she loves the latest gadgets and will likely add to those she has in her already well-equipped smart house, which even has lights that change colors on command.

Odds are excellent she will be adding to those photos–and memories–in no time. «

Patton looks forward to myriad experiences in her next chapter, among them painting and cooking classes, pickleball, and travel.

“

I came for the job, but I’m staying by choice. It’s hard not to fall in love with Naples and Collier [County] and the people. I’ve made so many lifetime friends here.”

SPACES

MINKA MCDONALD JINX MCDONALD INTERIOR DESIGNS

Q: WHAT IS YOUR DESIGN INSPIRATION?

A: Our clients are our inspiration! We designed this house for a young, growing family that wanted a vibrant space with a warm and contemporary character. The wife is a chef who studied at Le Cordon Bleu in France, so this inspired us to design a kitchen that was highly functional, sophisticated, and energetic.

contained within golden bleached oak slab-front cabinets with Cambria Britannica Gold countertops, sharp gold accents, a Zellige tile backsplash, and a super fun light fixture.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR AREA OF SPECIALIZATION?

Q: WHAT ARE THE LATEST TRENDS IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

A: Fabulous kitchens are always on trend! This one holds a breakfast bar with a built-in coffee/espresso machine, doors to hide plug-in appliances such as toasters and refrigerator drawers, and features a wet bar with an uncorking station, locking liquor cabinets, a wine refrigerator, and glassware storage. All this functionality is

A: Jinx McDonald Interior Designs specializes in highend residential design which includes new construction, renovations, and model homes. During our design process we start with a vision, design the color scheme and elements that elaborate on the vision, and then do the work required to bring the project to life. Working in such a creative industry located in a beautiful paradise is such a joy - we love what we do! 1959 Trade Center Way n Naples, FL 34109 n 239-598-4800 n jinxmcdonald.com

KIRA KRÜMM

KOASTAL DESIGN GROUP KIRA KRUMM & CO.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR DESIGN INSPIRATION?

A: Our natural surroundings offer vast inspiration as we are very fortunate to be in an area that is so rich with beauty. My goal is to design timeless interior environments that are symbiotic with our natural surroundings and coastal lifestyle. Colors, finishes, and textures are inspired by the color of our coast, the surface of shells, or array of tropical foliage. These organic elements are balanced by light, soft, performance fabrics and textiles that are both luxurious and family friendly.

Q: WHAT ARE THE LATEST TRENDS IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

A: In our area, people are seeking harmony in their homes and simplifying their interiors. I see our clients

desiring light interiors devoid of over-ornamentation and formalities. Quality materials supersede an abundance of decoration and promote balance between simplicity and each unique appointment.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR AREA OF SPECIALIZATION?

A: For more than three decades, I have been dedicated to creating environments that are conducive to the lifestyles of Southwest Florida. Our specialization is to provide beautifully designed luxurious interiors that are functional, comfortable, and livable. Each interior we create is one of a kind and represents our client’s unique taste and personal lifestyle.

EAT+DRINK

BOLD FLAVORS, COOL COCKTAILS, AND LOCAL FAVORITES

DINING

Healthy at Heart

Coinciding with all the heart imagery February offers is American Heart Month, putting cardiovascular health in the spotlight. That includes, among other things, a hearthealthy diet full of fruits and vegetables, low-fat proteins, and more. There are delectable ways to incorporate heart-healthy nutrition into your diet, including at places like Kareem’s Lebanese Kitchen. Rachid Eido, executive chef and owner, prepares vegetarian fare such as tabbouleh with such color and flavor that carnivores won’t miss the meat. However, if it’s beef, chicken, or lamb you crave, there’s myriad options on this Mediterranean restaurant’s extensive menu. (kareemskitchen.com) To read more about Kareem’s and chef Eido, turn the page. –Gina Birch

Tabbouleh is a heart-healthy vegetarian dish at Kareem’s Lebanese Kitchen.

COURTESY OF KAREEM’S LEBANESE KITCHEN

Healthy at Heart

Continued

Diners rave about Kareem’s hummus. Silky and rich, it takes three days to make; it’s a labor-of-love process Eido learned from his grandfather while growing up in Beirut, Lebanon.

The chickpeas—high in fiber, packed with nutrition, and an excellent source of plant-based protein—form the base of the hummus and are soaked overnight, then slow cooked for six hours. After cooling and resting, these are blended with lemon juice, garlic, and tahini (a sesame seed paste).

WINE

Tom Boyle has a love affair with wine. The new sommelier for Ridgway Bar & Grill has been fascinated by wine since he was a youngster. “It was offered for me to taste, so I appreciated it sooner than most of my peers,” Boyle remembers.

That early appreciation also fueled his passion for teaching others about wine. “I am able to help people expand their pleasure of drinking wine and to add a more cerebral element as well,” he says.

Ridgway Bar & Grill is known for having a well-curated wine list. In fact, the restaurant has earned Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence annually since 2013. Prior to being tapped as

Ridgway’s sommelier, Boyle managed the restaurant as well as Tony’s Off Third, the adjacent boutique-wine, pastry, and coffee shop.

Boyle, a certified sommelier, continues to manage wine sales and tasting events at Tony’s under the guidance of Sukie Honeycutt, co-owner and wine director. Its neighborhood feel is something Boyle embraces.

“The interaction with customers, talking about wine; it’s a great way to educate and get different wines [to] Naples residents,” Boyle says. “It’s great to help someone build their comfort level with wine, find what they enjoy, and feel less intimidated. It’s equally exciting to work with the connoisseurs.” (ridgwaybarandgrill. com) –G.B.

Tom Boyle’s Valentine’s Day Wine Selections

Another healthy vegetarian dish found at Kareem’s is tabbouleh, largely made from parsley. Tabbouleh has no cholesterol, is low in fat, and is high in fiber. Plus, the parsley, rich in vitamin K, is a natural diuretic and can reduce both bloating and blood pressure.

Eido says the secret to his tabbouleh is soaking the bulgur with lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh chopped mint. After soaking, he mixes it with finely chopped parsley, yellow onions, and plum tomatoes. “The best way to enjoy tabbouleh is to eat it with fresh cabbage or with lettuce romaine hearts,” he recommends.

Kareem means generous in Arabic, and it’s a fitting descriptor for the restaurant’s portions, commitment to health, and warm hospitality. —G.B.

Since many celebrate Valentine’s Day this month, Naples Illustrated asked Boyle to recommend two endearing wine picks.

Billecart-Salmon Brut Rosé Champagne: Beautiful and elegant, light and fresh, notes of strawberry and raspberry lead to a clean, dry finish in this iconic go-to bubbly. Even people claiming to dislike Champagne often love this one.

Flowers Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast 2021: Skip roses for Valentine’s Day and instead enthrall the senses with this new vintage by Flowers. It features a lush nose of berries and baking spice, with more ripe cherries and blueberries on the palate. Like other Pinots from the Sonoma Coast, it’s light in body but forward in flavor. —G.B.

COURTES Y O F MOT ELYOB

The hummus at Kareem’s Lebanese Kitchen takes three days to prepare.

COURTESY OF KAREEM’S LEBANESE KITCHEN

COURTESY OF

A BLAZING STAR

Smoky cocktails are perfect for Neapolitan winters, regardless of how mild the temperatures are on any given night.

Monika Czechowska, co-owner of Fuse Global Cuisine, has been setting wood planks ablaze for smokeinfused cocktails long before these luscious libations came en vogue— almost since her doors opened in November 2013. Through the years, she’s polished and perfected her drink-smoking skills, collecting and using different woods to produce a variety of flavor profiles.

Ghost & Smoke—with a base of Michters Bourbon—is one of Fuse’s most popular drinks. “It’s not too hot, not too mellow, not too sweet,”

explains Czechowska.

She mixes it with a dash of maple syrup, lemon juice, and what she calls her not-so-secret, secret ingredient: Galliano.

For this cocktail, she places wood shavings from old bourbon barrels into a handheld smoker. Once the chips are ignited, their smoke is pumped into a shapely glass beaker. As the smoke swirls and coats the glass, she mixes the cocktail, strains it, and pours it into the beaker.

So that the flavors can meld, the cocktail and smoke are left in the beaker to mingle. Finally, the infused product is poured into a rocks glass and finished with the zest of an orange.

The result is a balanced cocktail with a

rustic touch of smoke and herbs.

Fuse currently has one additional smoky cocktail on its regular menu, a margarita infused with maple wood smoke. However, Czechowska reports she can add smoked flair to almost anything. (fuseglobal cuisine.com) –G.B.

NI ’s curated dining guide for Greater NAPLES

THE LISTINGS

The Naples area is packed with an abundance of great eateries, serving up food and drinks to satisfy every palate. Naples Illustrated has rounded up details on can’tmiss places for dining delights.

As our community continues to recover from Hurricane Ian, please contact restaurants directly before visiting for the most up-to-date information.

AMERICAN

485 DEGREES This from-scratch kitchen specializes in hand-cut fries, New England–style steak-and-cheese subs with tenderloin and roasted garlic aioli, po’ boys, and porchetta and fried chicken sandwiches. 7785 Davis Blvd. Unit 105, Naples (485degrees.com)

ALEXANDER’S The tastes of farm-to-table American and European cuisine commingle at this fine dining establishment. 4077 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (alexandersnaples.com)

ALICE SWEETWATER’S BAR & GRILLE An institution for 34 years, this local favorite serves a large array of lunch and dinner fare. 1996 Airport Road S., Naples (alicesweetwatersbarandgrille.com)

THE BEVY Everything old is new again at The Bevy (short for beverage). Be sure to try the Blackberry Tom Cat, a riff on the Tom Collins. 360 12th Ave. S., Naples (naplesbevy.com)

BILL’S CAFÉ Chef Bill Salley presides over an open kitchen that slings comfort food and connects to a welcoming dining area underscored by classic rock tunes. 947 Third Ave. N., Naples (billscafenaples.com)

BISTRO 821 A long-time favorite, thanks to executive chef Jess Housman’s menu fusing Asian, European, and domestic flavors. 821 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (bistro821.com)

BLUEBERRY’S RESTAURANT There’s something for everyone at Blueberry’s, from a hearty skillet to an egg white scramble to pancakes. 3350 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (blueberrys-restaurant.com)

BRICKTOP’S Boasting classic American dishes and an outstanding brunch. 5555 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (bricktops.com)

BROOKS BURGERS Brooks’ three Naples locations are celebrated for gourmet classics and trendy options, such as Korean barbecue, fig jam, and, of course, doughnut. 330 Ninth St. S.; 2220 Logan Blvd. N., Ste. 805; 845 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples (brooksburgers.com)

COOPER’S HAWK WINERY Signature dishes paired with Cooper’s Hawk wines in a casual setting. 11905 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (chwinery.com)

EJ’s BAYFRONT CAFÉ An extensive breakfast, brunch, and lunch menu served daily in a pet-friendly environment on Naples Bay. 469 Bayfront Place, Naples (ejsbayfrontcafe.com)

FUSE BBQ Stop by for Texas-style brisket, Memphisstyle ribs, and Carolina-style pork. 2500 Tamiami Trail N. #114, Naples (fusebbq.com)

GOLDIES RESTAURANT For reliable Americana cuisine and friendly service, look no further than this hidden gem. 5400 Taylor Road, Naples (goldies restaurant.com)

THE HANGOUT BY TWO GUYS Brothers Peter and Larry Falisi dish out a relaxing vibe with Italian dishes based on family recipes and “secret ingredients,” along with a mix of tacos, quesadillas, sliders, and vegan entrées. 2360 Pine Ridge Road, Naples (hangoutnaples.com)

HAROLD’S PLACE A fun, casual bar and grill that serves classic burgers, seafood, salads, and more in a tropical setting complete with a chickee bar and poolside dining. 2555 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (naplesharoldsplace.com)

KC AMERICAN BISTRO As the name implies, regional American cuisine is on tap. 885 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples (kcamericanbistro.com)

LAKE PARK DINER A healthy spin on classic diner fare, with an emphasis on organic meats and produce. 944 Seventh Ave. N., Naples (thelakeparkdiner.com)

Monika Czechowska (above) of Fuse Global Cuisine has mastered the art of creating smoky cocktails.

GINA BIRCH

A SWEET PAIRING

BY GINA BIRCH

There are few things more synonymous with Valentine’s Day than chocolate and Champagne. While this combo might be mere romantic fun for some, for food and wine connoisseurs, it’s much more detailed. This is precisely the case for Norman Love, Southwest Florida’s undisputed king of chocolate, who often collaborates with Fort Myers chef Harold Balink for both virtual and in-person chocolate and wine pairing events.

“Working with [Balink] got me to think out of the box. We played with (grape) varietals I’d never paid much attention to,” Love says.

The cacao used to make chocolate and the grapes for wine may seem worlds apart. In truth, however, they are more similar than not. Both rely upon terroir, farming, and the mercy of mother nature for their flavor profiles. Both can be acidic and complex with earthy and fruity characteristics, among other corresponding distinguishers.

Naples Illustrated made its way to Love’s chocolate salon, Norman Love Confections, with two bottles of wine for an impromptu tasting and pairing lesson.

Fit for Valentine’s Day, the first bottle was a new sparkling rosé from Sonoma-Cutrer. The

2019 Grand Brut Rosé is part of the winemaker’s Release series, a cuvée of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that is dry with pleasing acidity, teeming with tropical fruits.

Love first suggested a white chocolate with key lime that provided pucker power, but not the type most seek on Valentine’s Day.

It was a bit too tart. From his special Valentine’s Day chocolate collection, mimosa was the winner. Orange, passion fruit, and panna cotta were also delightful pairings.

He explains, “Fruity whites and sparkling wines are good with white chocolate and fruits.” As far as dark chocolate with sparkling wines, if it has red fruit, it’s a winner. Think traditional but beloved chocolate covered strawberries.

When it comes to red wine, Love says, “The sweet spot is dark chocolate in the 70 to 75 percent [cacao] range.” The higher the percentage of cacao, the less sugar and more bitter the chocolate.

We opened a beautiful 2020 Aperture Cabernet Sauvignon. The bottle’s artful label next to the stunning chocolates was a perfect combination visually. To find an equally

exceptional combination for the palate, Love reached for a box of his special Black line. These chocolates are made with carefully curated dark cacao from around the world.

This young bottle of Cabernet improved as it sat in the glass, as its dark fruits opened. Aperture’s 2020 production was drastically affected by wildfires but not this wine. It paired excellently with the 68-percent cacao chocolate from Ghana.

If chocolate is higher in cacao than 75 percent, Love recommends a fortified wine, such as port. “It’s a match made in heaven,” he says. He opened a bottle to prove it. Seamless.

In the end, Love says not to overthink it. “It’s not always about what the experts say,” he says. “It’s supposed to be fun and enjoyable.” (normanloveconfections.com)

Clockwise from top left: Sonoma-Cutrer’s Grand Brut Rosé paired with Norman Love chocolates; Harold Balink and Norman Love; Aperture Cabernet Sauvignon and Norman Love dark chocolates, another ideal pairing.

PRIORITY MARKETING GINA BIRCH

GINA BIRCH

Warm as Life

Brian McCarley, owner of The Other Side Bistro in Bonita Springs, knows and loves soup. Two decades prior to opening the bistro, he operated a restaurant called Good Soup, where his reputation solidified for crafting outstanding bowls of savory potions.

A Southwest Florida native, McCarley grew up in the restaurant business and received a formal culinary education from The Cooking and Hospitality Institute of Chicago. From this classical training and an interview he viewed with renowned French chef Jacques Pépin, his wildly popular baked five onion soup was inspired.

The key to McCarley’s popular soup is his use of five different varieties of onions. “People said it was stupid for me to use scallions because they disintegrate,” McCarley states. “But, to that point, those onions go into the ester of the soup.”

He also uses red wine to help break down the onions. The soup is served in a crock topped with melted Swiss cheese—and it’s pure divinity. Since there is no beef broth, it’s also a vegetarian favorite.

Another beloved option is McCarley’s mushroom soup. It’s not cream-based but still quite rich, thanks to the amount of butter used in its preparation. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of Pinot Noir.

For a chef, soup is a fantastic way to operate a more sustainable

kitchen. For instance, unused pieces of strip steak are used in McCarley’s hearty beef barley soup. He recently made a classic borscht, an ancient sour soup, using beef and beets.

“Soup is something everyone makes, but not everyone makes it well,” McCarley quips. “You have to start with good ingredients.”

What is it about soup that is beloved by so many? Having trouble putting his answer into words, McCarley cites the animated film Ratatouille.

“Remember when [Anton Ego] sat down to a simple bowl of ratatouille and it blew his mind?” he asks. “It brought him back to himself. Good soup does that.” (othersidebistro.com) –G.B

THE LOCAL Fresh, healthy meals dominate the menu, and its brunch is one of the best in town. 5323 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples (thelocalnaples.com)

M WATERFRONT GRILLE Contemporary decor, fine cuisine, and views of Venetian Bay from every seat in the dining room. 4300 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples (mwaterfrontgrille.com)

MICHELBOB’S CHAMPIONSHIP RIBS & STEAKS Family-run since 1976, Michelbob’s offers a full bar and comprehensive menu of barbecue favorites. 371 Airport-Pulling Road N., Naples (michelbobs.com)

MIDNIGHT TAVERN This laid-back gastropub serves American favorites—specialty burgers, handhelds, fries, salads, and appetizers—along with live music three nights a week. 2800 Davis Blvd., Naples (midnighttavernfl.com)

OLD NAPLES PUB AND THE VILLAGE PUB Both of these local favorites feature an array of handhelds and finger-friendly foods perfect for the casual setting. 255 13th Ave. S.; 4360 Gulf Shore Blvd., Naples (naplespubs.com)

RIDGWAY BAR & GRILL Chef Tony Ridgway continues wowing diners with classic American cuisine. 1300 Third St. S., Naples (ridgwaybarandgrill.com)

THE ROOSTER A smorgasbord of savory Southern offerings, including biscuits and gravy to crow about. 600 Goodlette Road N. Ste. 101, Naples (theroosternaples.com)

SEASONS 52 A rotating menu of healthy, seasonal dishes and international wines. 8930 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (seasons52.com)

SEVENTH SOUTH CRAFT FOOD + DRINK Owner Barry Larkin and chef Jay Schrednitz offer a locally and globally sustainable seafood program, handcut steaks, house-made pastas, and reimagined cocktails, along with a Sunday brunch. 849 Seventh Ave. S., Naples (seventhsouth.com)

SOUTH STREET GRILL Inspired by the bars and clubs on the Philadelphia street of the same name, South Street pairs home-style specialties with live music, craft beers, and cocktails. 1410 Pine Ridge Road Ste. 4, Naples (southstreetnaples.com)

TAVERN ON THE BAY This popular sports bar boasts huge televisions, great comfort food, and a lovely view of the Gordon River. 489 Bayfront Place, Naples (tavernonthebay.net)

THREE60 MARKET In addition to a stellar market, this local favorite boasts a café that serves classic, fresh fare for breakfast and lunch or an early dinner. 2891 Bayview Drive, Naples (three60market.com)

TOMMY BAHAMA RESTAURANT & BAR Born in Naples, the Tommy Bahama laid-back lifestyle is full throttle in its original festive eatery and bar at 1220 Third St. S., Naples; and Coconut Point, 23150 Fashion Drive #101, Estero (tommybahama.com)

TRUE FOOD KITCHEN The eclectic menu features anti-inflammatory dishes that will make you feel good from the inside out. 5375 Tamiami Trail N. Ste. 15, Naples (truefoodkitchen.com/naples)

TWISTED SHEEP PIZZA & BREW Artisanal specialty and custom pizzas and inventive hand-helds and small bites, local brews, and “stubborn soda” in fla-

vors such as citrus-hibiscus orange. 3802 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (twistedsheeppizza.com)

THE WAREHOUSE A menu dotted with fresh, local ingredients complements an award-winning cocktail program. 9010 Bellaire Bay Drive, Naples (thewarehousenaples.com)

YABBA ISLAND GRILL A fun place for steaks, seafood, and cocktails. 711 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (yabbaislandgrill.com)

YARD HOUSE With unique and plentiful tap options, Yard House offers an electric atmosphere and array of hearty American entrées. 4251 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (yardhouse.com)

Z’S MUSIC KITCHEN Kick back to live country and rhythm and blues with a plate of the chef’s Nashvillestyle hot chicken or cornmeal-encrusted grouper. 12655 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (zsmusickitchen.com)

SEAFOOD

AQUA The restaurant’s look is fresh and airy, just right for the seafood-centric menu. 862 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (aquafifth.com)

THE BAY HOUSE Overlooking the Cocohatchee River, this eatery features a beautiful dining room plus Southern-inspired seafood fare. 799 Walkerbilt Road, Naples (bayhousenaples.com)

BAYSIDE SEAFOOD GRILL & BAR This Venetian Bay favorite boasts grand water views, prime grilled meats, and seafood specialties. 4270 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples (baysideseafoodgrillandbar.com)

From top: Brian McCarley, chef and owner of The Other Side Bistro in Bonita Springs; baked five onion soup.

GINA BIRCH

EAT+DRINK

THE BOATHOUSE ON NAPLES BAY Arrive by car or dock your boat at this waterfront seafood restaurant overlooking Naples Bay. 990 Broad Ave. S., Naples (boathouseonnaplesbay.com)

CAPTAIN & KREWE SEAFOOD MARKET & RAW BAR Enjoy oysters and other seafood, beer, and wine in a relaxed atmosphere. 629 Eighth St. S., Naples (cknaples.com)

THE CATCH OF THE PELICAN Fine steaks, local seafood, and hand-picked produce—much of it grown onsite—in a relaxed, sophisticated setting overlooking the pool at Naples Grande. 475 Seagate Drive, Naples (naplesgrande.com)

THE CLAW BAR This sister restaurant to The Bay House features a sophisticated blend of Southern traditions and high-quality ingredients. 221 Ninth St. S., Naples (theclawbar.com)

THE DOCK AT CRAYTON COVE An open-air restaurant serving fresh catches prepared with Caribbean and Latin influences. 845 12th Ave. S., Naples (dockcraytoncove.com)

FISH RESTAURANT Fabulous views of Venetian Bay complement the outstanding seafood. 4360 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples (fishrestaurantnaples.com)

GROUPER & CHIPS The grouper is spectacular, as are the crab cakes, fish tacos, and bouillabaisse. 338 Ninth St. N., Naples (grouperandchipsnaples.com)

HOGFISH HARRY’S Showcasing the Gulf Coast’s bounty, Hogfish Harry’s serves up signatures such as monkfish bucco and, of course, grilled hogfish. 600 Neapolitan Way, Naples (hogfishharrys.com)

LA PESCHERIA A creative, stellar eatery that honors the culture of Italian fish markets. 474 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (lapescherianaples.com)

MR. BIG FISH This family-friendly eatery specializes in delicious chowders and locally caught seafood dishes. 754 Neapolitan Way, Naples (mrbigfish.com)

OCEAN PRIME Enjoy exceptional hospitality, a delectable seafood and steak menu, luxe cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere. 699 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (ocean-prime.com)

PINCHERS CRAB SHACK Pinchers serves fresh, local seafood in a casual, family-friendly setting. 1200 Fifth Ave. S., Naples; 591 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island; 28580 Bonita Crossing Blvd., Bonita Springs (pinchersusa.com)

SAILS This bona fide “pescatarian’s haven” features exquisitely fresh seafood prepared to perfection. 301 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (sailsrestaurants.com)

SEA SALT Chef Fabrizio Aielli is a master at marrying organic local produce, wild-caught fish, naturally raised meat, and poultry with modern cooking techniques. 1186 Third St. S., Naples (seasaltnaples.com)

TRULUCK’S SEAFOOD, STEAK & CRAB HOUSE Truluck’s owns local fisheries, so the catch is always fresh in this fine-dining restaurant. 698 Fourth Ave. S., Naples (trulucks.com)

USS NEMO UNDERSEA CUISINE & ADVENTURES Everything is a cut above, but the signature miso-broiled sea bass is a must. 3745 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (ussnemo restaurant.com)

STEAK

THE CAPITAL GRILLE Fine dining with an array of dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list. 9005 Mercato Drive, Naples (thecapitalgrille.com)

CHOPS CITY GRILL A modern take on the traditional, with prime aged steaks, local seafood, and more than 100 whiskey selections. 837 Fifth Ave. S., Naples; 8200 Health Center Blvd. Ste. 100, Bonita Springs (chopscitygrill.com)

DORONA Local culinary superstars Fabrizio and Ingrid Aielli have excelled again with this modern Italian steak house. 2110 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (doronanaples.com)

THE GRILL Luxurious dining in The Ritz-Carlton, Naples features rich decor, aged prime beef, chops, and fresh seafood. 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples (ritzcarlton.com/naples)

JIMMY P’S CHARRED Known for its Wagyu beef, the popular butcher shop’s steaks and other fine foods are served in the restaurant next door. 1833 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (jimmypscharred.com)

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE Sophisticated decor, prime meats, and fine seafood make for a special night out. 23151 Village Shops Way, Bonita Springs (ruthschris.com)

SHULA’S STEAK HOUSE In the winning tradition of late NFL coaching icon Don Shula, the “Shula Cut” is one of the best steaks in town. 5111 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (shulasnaples.com)

FRENCH

BISTRO LA BAGUETTE This traditional French bistro serves classic combinations like coq au vin and chateaubriand and offers cooking classes for various group sizes. 3560 Tamiami Trail E., Naples (bistrolabaguette.com)

BLEU PROVENCE Authentic dishes from the South of France are paired with wines from the vast, award-

winning selection compiled by the restaurant’s owner, Jacques Cariot. 1234 Eighth St. S., Naples (bleuprovencenaples.com)

CHEZ BOËT FRENCH HOME COOKING Lisa and Philippe Boët serve up delicious French classics in a warm, homey atmosphere. 755 12th Ave. S., Naples (chezboetnaples.com)

CÔTE D’AZUR Intimate bistro in the style of Provence. 11224 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (cotedazur restaurant.com)

THE FRENCH BRASSERIE RUSTIQUE Rustic French cuisine and lighter fare with desserts prepared by an in-house pastry chef. 365 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (thefrenchnaples.com)

LA COLMAR BAKERY & BISTRO Authentic French beignets, quiche, croque monsieur, soups, salads, croissant sandwiches, and charcuterie and cheese boards. 80 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (lacolmar.com)

TARTINE & TARTELETTE Authentic, homemade French cuisine with wine pairings as sweet as the restaurant’s name. 11121 Health Park Blvd., Naples (tartine-tartelette.com)

MEXICAN

FELIPE’S MEXICAN TAQUERIA Casual, family-friendly eatery serving fresh classics plus hand-crafted cocktails. 4255 Tamiami Trail N.; 2220 Logan Blvd. N. Ste. 810, Naples (felipestaqueria.com)

ROCCO’S TACOS AND TEQUILA BAR Every day is Cinco de Mayo at this high-energy eatery. The signature tacos are a hit, along with the savory guacamole, made fresh tableside. 9123 Strada Place Ste. 7135, Naples (roccostacos.com)

21 Spices by Chef Asif’s biryani with bagara eggplant and raita NICOLE NIXON

TINA SARGEANT

Calabrese pizza from Grappino

EAT+DRINK

TACOS & TEQUILA CANTINA The many varieties of tacos are made with fresh, local products and handmade tortillas. 4834 Davis Blvd.; 8971 Tamiami Trail N., Naples; 10952 Eagle Village Drive, Fort Myers (tacosandtequilanaples.com)

TAQUERIA SAN JULIAN This neighborhood destination serves up tacos with familiar fillings, though tripe and tongue are available for the adventurous. 3575 Bayshore Drive, Naples (taqueriasanjulian. restaurantwebexpert.com)

TURCO TACO Clean eating with a Mexican twist, complete with hormone- and antibiotic-free meats, handmade and gluten-free tortillas, and numerous organic salads. 410 Ninth St. N.; 1514 Immokalee Road #116, Naples (theturcotaco.com)

ITALIAN

ALBERTO’S ON FIFTH Chef Alberto Varetto cooks fine dishes in his elegant restaurant. 868 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (albertosonfifth.com)

ANGELINA’S RISTORANTE A place for a special night out, with elegant cuisine and a 4,000-bottle wine tower. 24041 Tamiami Trail S., Bonita Springs (angelinasofbonitasprings.com)

BARBATELLA Pizzas and pastas are delish, but don’t overlook offerings like the grilled salmon. Save room for the signature Nutella pizza. 1290 Third St. S., Naples (barbatellanaples.com)

BAR TULIA This late-night brother of Osteria Tulia serves outstanding pizzas and a variety of irresistible small bites, among other delicacies. 462 Fifth Ave. S.; 9118 Strada Place Ste. 8150, Naples (bartulia.com)

BELLINI The Bellini family treats guests to cuisine inspired by matriarch “Nonna” Maria. 2331 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (bellininaples.com)

BRIO ITALIAN GRILLE The location in Waterside Shops makes this a popular place for pre- and postshopping meals. 5505 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (brioitalian.com)

CAMPIELLO RISTORANTE & BAR This mainstay on Third Street South is a perennial gathering place for great food and people-watching. 1177 Third St. S., Naples (campiellonaples.com)

DEROMO’S GOURMET MARKET & RESTAURANT Dine on home-style dishes, then shop for gourmet items to take home. The Promenade, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs (deromos.com)

GRAPPINO This latest venture from Ingrid and Fabrizio Aielli celebrates Fabrizio’s Venetian roots and houses one of the country’s most comprehensive grappa bars. 90 Ninth St. N., Naples (grappinonaples.com)

LA TRATTORIA Old-world charm abounds at this Neapolitan-style pizzeria, where pie options are divided between rosse (red) and blanche (white). 878 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (latrattorianaples.com)

MINO This casual eatery specializes in pizza and trattoria dishes, including freshly made pastas and appetizers like the ever-popular arancini. 1100 Sixth Ave. S., Naples (minofl.com)

MOLTO TRATTORIA The homemade pasta, sauces, pizza Napoletana, and home-style cuisine are all topnotch. 368 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (moltonaples.com)

OSTERIA TULIA Chef Vincenzo Betulia’s authentically rustic venue and “peasant” cuisine are delizioso 466 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (osteriatulia.com)

PARMESAN PETE’S Chef and owner Peter Della Rocca creates meals that taste like a “big bite of Brooklyn.” 7935 Airport-Pulling Road, Naples (parmesanpetes.com)

PAZZO! CUCINA ITALIANA The “friendly neighborhood” restaurant has been serving dishes using made-from-scratch sauces, pastas, and desserts for more than 20 years. 853 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (pazzoitaliancafe.com)

ROMA ITALIAN BISTRO Pizza and Italian specialities made with ingredients imported from Italy and fresh organic produce. 655 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (roma italianpizzeria.com)

TERRAZZA This Italian eatery at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples pairs cool Gulf breezes with classic entrées and an array of pastas. 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples (ritzcarlton.com)

VERGINA Italian and Mediterranean dishes with a modern flair. 700 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (vergina restaurant.com)

ASIAN

21 SPICES BY CHEF ASIF Chef Asif R. Syed offers classical Indian cuisine created with his special collection of spices. 4270 Tamiami Trail E. #21, Naples (21spicesdining.com)

ARAYA SUSHI ASIAN GRILL Thai dishes, along with a wide choice of rolls, sushi, and sashimi, served in a modern space. 2650 Immokalee Road, Naples (arayanaples.com)

AZN AZIAN CUIZINE PanAsian cuisine and an expansive sushi rolls menu, including specialties like Surf & Turf with blue crab, tuna, beef filet carpaccio, and cucumber. 9118 Strada Place, Naples (aznrestaurant. com)

DARUMA Visit this Southwest Florida institution for traditional service or teppanyaki-style cooking, an always exciting culinary experience. 241 Center St. N., Naples (darumarestaurant.com)

FUJIYAMA STEAK AND SEAFOOD HOUSE Enjoy steaks and seafood prepared with Japanese flair at Fujiyama’s hibachi table. 2555 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (naplesfujiyama.com)

I LOVE CURRY Mumbai native “Chef Di” shares his professional skill and passion for traditional, authentic Indian cuisine through a popular food truck, restaurant, and catering operation. 2740 Bayshore Drive Unit #11, Naples (ilovecurry124.com)

LE INDYA Having grown up on India’s southern coast, chef Suman Chaniyil creates authentic classics rich with flavor and finesse. 975 Pine Ridge Road, Naples (leindya.com)

NAMBA Named for a district of Osaka, Namba specializes in aburi sushi, a style of nigiri where the fish is partially grilled on top. 8847 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (nambanaples.com)

SUSHI ONE Freshness is paramount at Sushi One and each order is painstakingly prepared by hand. 1410 Pine Ridge Road, Naples (sushionenaples.com)

Barbatella’s black mussels with oreganata, tomato sauce, and garlic bruschetta

VICKI BAKER

SUSHI-THAI Presenting traditional dishes from Japan, as well as sushi and Thai classics. 869 103rd Ave. N.; 7935 Airport-Pulling Road N.; 898 Fifth Ave. S., Naples; 25101 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs (sushithaitoo.com and sushithaidowntown.com)

VEGAN KITCHEN The wide-ranging Asian menu includes influences from China, Thailand, and Vietnam, with many gluten-free options. 794 Neapolitan Way, Naples (vegan-kitchen.us)

ZEN ASIAN BBQ A rustic Japanese pub serving fantastic sushi, Korean barbecue, ramen, and more. 10823 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (eatatzen.com)

GLOBAL

C LEVEL BISTRO & WINE BAR A trendy venue that offers a menu of international dishes with American and French influences. 4450 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs (c-levelbar.com)

CELEBRATION PARK NAPLES This waterfront bar and food truck park has something for everyone, from Maine lobster and Greek gyros, to Asian fusion and Southern barbecue. 2880 Becca Ave., Naples (facebook.com/ celebrationparknaples)

COAST Enjoy a candlelit dinner indoors or watch the sun set over the Gulf on the terrace as you savor the globally influenced cuisine. 1901 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples (edgewaternaples.com)

DEL MAR Chef David Vilchez’s seafood, familystyle shareables, Turkish flatbreads, and woodfired entrées are infused with the flavors of the Mediterranean coast. 494 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (delmarnaplesrestaurant.com)

FUSE GLOBAL CUISINE Chef-owner Greg Scarlatos uses flavors and ingredients from around the world to create a diverse menu. 2500 Tamiami Trail N. #115, Naples (fuseglobalcuisine.com)

HYDE N CHIC At this fine-dining establishment, chef Andy Hyde merges his Ghana roots with Southwest Florida’s agricultural and seafood bounty. 923 Creech Road, Naples (hydenchicrestaurant.com)

JANE’S CAFÉ ON THIRD The owners of this popular downtown spot offer a world of breakfast and lunch choices. 1209 Third St. S., Naples (janesgardencafe. com)

LAMORAGA Spanish cuisine with an international twist is served along with a wide selection of fine wines. 3936 Tamiami Trail N., Naples (lamoragarestaurant.com)

MEDITERRANO This restaurant serves up authentic dishes like Mediterranean sea bass with figs, apricots, and raisins. 336 Thirteenth Ave. S., Naples (mediterrano-naples.com)

NOSH ON NAPLES BAY Small plates, or noshes, are the specialty at this fine-dining establishment, the latest venture from its award-winning chef, Todd Johnson. The Grilled Octopus Nosh is a fan favorite. 1490 Fifth Ave. S. Ste. 101, Naples (noshon naplesbay.com)

VERANDA E The signature restaurant at Escalante hotel offers an eclectic fusion of Asian and French-influenced flavors in a romantic tropical setting. 290 Fifth Ave. S., Naples (hotelescalante.com)

NCH IS BRINGING THE WORLD’S #1-RATED ORTHOPEDIC CARE TO NAPLES

As an independent non-profit and Southwest Florida’s only Advanced Community Healthcare System™️, NCH combines the highest quality of care with a commitment to the health and well-being of our entire community. Through our new collaboration with Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), we are raising the bar on world-class orthopedic care, right here in Naples.

The orthopedic expertise of HSS is ranked #1 worldwide by medical professionals in 40 countries, according to Newsweek. NCH is excited to bring HSS and their world-renowned experience to our community.

To learn more about our collaboration with HSS, visit NCHmd.org

BALANCE

YOUR BEST SELF: FITNESS, NUTRITION, MINDFULNESS, WELL-BEING

PRO TIPS

Building ANKLE STRENGTH

At one time or another, most of us have experienced ankle weakness. While it may not sound like a large concern, Shane Smith, owner of Naples Premier Physical Therapy, says weak ankles can make you susceptible to further injuries or tears and increase your risk of falls. According to Smith, determining if you have weak ankles can be done simply by standing on the tiptoes. “If you’re doing a lot of movement or wobbling in your ankle when you try to go up on your toes, there’s a good chance you have some instabilities present,” he explains. He often sees the issue in young athletes and in people in their seventies who have noticed their balance declining. What’s the solution? Smith recommends a few easy exercises. When standing, raise yourself onto your tiptoes for a few seconds using a chair for balance or balance on one foot on a foam pad. Or, when seated, try rotating each ankle in a circle several times, or draw the alphabet in the air using your big toe. Seemingly simple exercises like these can help both mobility and stability. (naplespremierpt. com) –Erika Klein

Little Cooks in the Kitchen

If your kids are picky eaters, try letting them make the food themselves. That’s one of the ideas behind the classes at the new Naples cooking studio Budding Chef, which offers classes to all ages—from young children to adults.

“A lot of times kids won’t eat something that their mom puts on the table if they don’t like the way it looks,” explains founder Cindy Riddle. “But what we’ve been finding is that when kids actually make the food themselves and they learn about it, they are definitely more prone to want to try it.”

The classes welcome kids ages 2 and older and focus on fun dishes like rainbow waffles and fruit skewers, with a parent or caregiver acting as the sous-chef for younger kids. The school adapts to small hands and developing motor skills by putting pancake batter in squeeze bottles and using tables that can be adjusted to accommodate kids’ heights. Budding Chef also offers classes for older kids with spinoffs on cooking competition shows like Cupcake Wars, where the kids choose the theme and mix-ins, presenting their finished cupcake for judging.

Teaching kids to cook and eat a variety of foods not only makes dinnertime easier but also may improve their long-term health. “So many older college kids, they just don’t cook; they just eat out all the time,”

notes Riddle. “So, I think if you can start [kids] young in the kitchen and let them cook dinner for you with your help, it’s selling how to eat and prepare a meal.”

Riddle’s black bean brownies are a healthy spin on a favorite dessert that can be prepared with kids. “These [provide] a great way for kids and adults alike to have a protein-packed treat,” she says. “Plus, they are super easy to make with the entire family.” (budding-chef.com) –E.K.

WHO KNEW BLACK BEAN BROWNIES

SERVES 8, LASTING IN THE FRIDGE FOR UP TO 1 WEEK AND FREEZING WELL, TOO

Ingredients:

Coconut oil cooking spray

1

1/2 cup black beans (1 15-oz. can, drained and rinsed well)

1/2 cup organic quick oats

1/2 tsp. baking powder

Directions:

2 tbsp. cacao powder

1/4 tsp. kosher salt

1/2 cup pure maple syrup

1/4 cup coconut oil 2 tsp. pure vanilla extract

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line an 8 inch x 8 inch baking dish with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray. Set aside.

2. Combine all ingredients except chocolate chips in a good food processor and blend completely until smooth. (Note: A blender can work, but the texture and taste will be much better in a food processor.)

1/3 cup chocolate or cacao chips, plus more for sprinkling, if desired

3. Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl and fold in the chocolate chips. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and sprinkle with additional chocolate chips, if desired.

4. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until the brownies have just begun to brown around the edges and are set in the middle. Let them cool in the pan for 10 minutes; then slice into squares. If they still appear a bit uncooked in the middle, place them in the fridge for an hour to firm up.

Budding Chef, the new Naples cooking studio, offers classes for all ages, including young children.

COURTESY OF BUDDING CHEF

Your new smile starts here!

Looking for the one-time and done dental solution? That’s what Dr. Randold Binns DMD, M.S. and associates can provide for you with a proven protocol for an immediate smile on dental implants. Dr. Binns is amongst a select group of surgically trained prosthodontists that can provide you with a long-lasting, implant supported fixed zirconia dental option.

Zirconia has revolutionized dentistry as we can provide a strong, stainless, pearly white dental bridges without the need of any metal in most cases. See for yourself the featured case shown above, or visit our website for more.

MILLENNIUM MEDICARE CONNECT

Medicare enrollment is confusing. Millennium Medicare Connect delivers access to the programs, network, and doctors that give you confidence to make the right Medicare choices for you. Our physicians and care teams lead the nation in the quality of care they deliver to patients of Medicare age by specializing in all the preventive care proven to lead to healthier outcomes.

yourmedicareconnect.com

BALANCE

HEARING THE LATEST

If you have trouble hearing the television or frequently ask people to repeat themselves, you may benefit from a hearing aid. And you’re not alone. In fact, around 28.8 million adults in the United States could use a hearing aid, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. While hearing devices have traditionally been expensive, as of October 2022, the Food and Drug Administration allows selling of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids; this has not only encouraged less expensive options but also has improved accessibility to devices.

Dr. Sarah Sesslar, an audiologist at Decibels Audiology and Hearing Aid Center in Naples, notes that OTC hearing aids are only intended for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss—in other words, for those who are just starting to notice trouble hearing. And since hearing loss can also be related to other health issues, she recommends seeing an audiologist if you have a history of ear infections, a sudden change in hearing, tinnitus, or vertigo. Dr. Rachel Edwards, another audiologist at the center, adds that the issue could simply be wax in your ear and not hearing loss at all; she also advises seeing an audiologist for a hearing evaluation even if you choose to purchase an OTC device. Generally, though, both Sesslar and Edwards agree that OTC devices are a positive step toward getting patients the hearing help they need. “We are very happy to see hearing health care be both more accessible and more affordable.” (napleshearingaids.com) –E.K.

MORE MOTIVATION

STRUGGLING TO MOTIVATE YOURSELF? NAPLES-BASED PSYCHOTHERAPIST CHRISTOPHER SEAVEY, PHD, SAYS THE ISSUE COULD POTENTIALLY STEM FROM GROWING UP IN AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE YOU DIDN’T RECEIVE ENOUGH ENCOURAGEMENT. WHETHER THIS IS THE CASE FOR YOU OR NOT, HE SUGGESTS TAKING A SMALL RISK TO HELP YOU REDISCOVER YOUR MOTIVATION. IF YOUR LACK OF DRIVE IS RELATED TO WORK, FOR INSTANCE, SUCH A RISK MIGHT BE INTERVIEWING FOR A JOB YOU’RE NOT SURE YOU CAN GET.

“TAKE A SMALL RISK, AND IF THAT PAYS OFF, THAT’S POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT,” HE EXPLAINS. “THEN, MAYBE YOU’RE GOING TO TAKE A SLIGHTLY BIGGER RISK.” OF COURSE, A LACK OF MOTIVATION COULD ALSO BE LINKED TO DEPRESSION, IN WHICH CASE IT’S IMPORTANT TO TALK TO A THERAPIST. OTHERWISE, THOUGH, SEAVEY ENCOURAGES YOU TO REMEMBER THAT THE WORLD IS FULL OF OPPORTUNITIES. AS FAR AS OVERCOMING LOW MOTIVATION, HE SAYS, IT’S IMPORTANT TO KNOW THAT IT’S POSSIBLE.

(CHRISTOPHERSEAVEY.INFO)—E.K.

COURTESY

SHOP SMART

Traveling Stylishly with SLEEP APNEA

Naples resident Elsie Mendez was diagnosed with sleep apnea. While a CPAP machine helped her breathe better at night, she hated traveling with its stock, conspicuous gray bag.

“The TSA [employee] would open up the bag and say, ‘Oh, you have apnea—your machine,’ and it was so embarrassing,” she recalls. With a background in the fashion industry, she decided to design a more discreet bag, and her company My Happy Sleep was born.

The My Happy Sleep bags, which snugly fit a CPAP machine, come in a variety of colors, feature fashionable straps, and even have a medical device tag. When you’re not carrying the machine, Mendez says you can use the bag for day trips. She adds that she designed the bag not only as a travel essential for CPAP users but also to help reduce stigma of the condition.

“Our bags are fashionable, they’re sophisticated, they’re easy to carry, and they’re fun,” describes Mendez. (myhappysleep.com) —E.K.

withMikkiWilliams,CSP,CPAE

What’s your Legac?

• Are you a retired exec’ or a working one with a wealth of information to share?

• Do you want to give back or earn retirement income?

• Do you have a gift and want to inspire others?

• Or are you just bored in retirement and looking for reWirement?

Mikki Williams’ Speakers School is now in Naples April 20-22. 2023

Wh?

Mikki Williams is a Global Celebrity Speaker, Inspirational Humorist,Transformational Storyteller and Entrepreneur Extraordinaire Meetings and Convention Magazine named her one of the best speakers in the country along with Tony Robbins, Bill Gates and Lou Holtz.

Listed in Forbes as a top Executive Speech Coach and featured on the front page of the Wall Street Journal Professional Speaker Hall of Fame, TEDx speaker, CSP Certified Speaking Professional, spoke at the The White House twice and the first speaker to tour South Africa after apartheid and speak at President Mandela’s home.

One of the top rated speakers and a Master Chair, now Chair Emeritus for Vistage International, the world’s largest executive organization.

Spoken on every continent except Antarctica…where she can’t wear her stiletto’s.

LIVING WITH IVEY

FAKE OUT

WHY “PLANT-BASED” FAUX MEAT IS WORSE THAN THE REAL THING

BY IVEY LEIDY PHOTOGRAPHY BY KENT ANDERSON

We have all heard that eating too much meat is bad for us. In fact, the International Agency for Research on Cancer has found that regularly consuming processed meats can increase one’s risk of developing certain cancers by 18 percent. This is compounded by deficits in healthy eating practices. According to a report issued by the National Cancer Institute on the Standard American Diet, three out of four Americans don’t eat a single piece of fruit in a day and nine out of 10 don’t reach the recommended daily intake of vegetables. Furthermore, 96 percent of Americans don’t achieve the minimum weekly recommendation for greens and beans, and 99 percent do not reach the minimum for whole grains. The most shocking statistic about the average American’s diet is that 70 percent of it is processed.

Processed food is classified as any food that has changed in any way from its natural state, which is far too vague of a definition. In reality, processed food is any product that’s made a stop in a lab on its way to you. So, what started as a real whole food was then “enhanced” with chemical additives, sugar, artificial sweeteners and flavorings, chemical emulsifiers, stabilizers, and preservatives to

become something that’s more like a distant relative of what it once was.

The worst offenders are typically the readyto-eat, packaged “faux foods” like imitation eggs and beef that are low in nutrients and high in chemicals, calories, sodium, and additives. Companies now slap labels such as vegan, plant-based, keto, gluten-free, or nonGMO on these packaged foods and trick the population into thinking they’re healthy when they’re quite the opposite. Remember what I always say when reading labels: If your brain doesn’t recognize it, your body won’t either.

One of the most popular fake meat burgers on the market includes such ingredients as magnesium carbonate, erythrosine (red No. 3), propylene glycol, and ferric orthophosphate. Magnesium carbonate helps food retain its color, but it is also used in

BURGER VERSUS BURGER

FAKE MEAT

BURGER

Calories: 270

Fat: 20 g Sodium: 380 mg

Carbohydrates: 5 g Fiber: 3 g Sugar: 0 g Protein: 20 g

4-OZ. GRASS-FED

BURGER

Calories: 280

Fat: 23 g Sodium: 75 mg Carbohydrates: 0 g Fiber: 0 g Sugar: 0 g Protein: 19 g

flooring, fireproofing, and fire extinguishers. Erythrosine (red No. 3) is an artificial coloring that the FDA banned in cosmetics after it was shown to cause cancer, yet it is still allowed in foods. Propylene glycol is used as a moisturizer in foods and just so happens to be the main ingredient in antifreeze. Ferric orthophosphate is used to fortify foods and also as a pesticide to kill slugs and snails.

The best piece of advice when it comes to limiting processed foods is to ask yourself: Did it grow on a tree, bush, or in the ground? Did it roam freely in a pasture? Or, did it grow in a lab or factory? Read on for more tips and insight.

LIVING WITH IVEY BLACK BEAN BURGER

Calories: 300

Fat: 4 g

Sodium: 80 mg

Carbohydrates: 30 g Fiber: 12 g Sugar: 4 g Protein: 15 g

TOFU SCRAMBLE

»

INGREDIENTS (serves 2)

1 14-oz. block of firm tofu

2 tbsp. nutritional yeast

1/4 tsp. turmeric

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

3 tbsp. unsweetened almond milk

2 tbsp. olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Chopped chives for garnish

» Dry the tofu thoroughly by placing it between two paper towels. In a small bowl, add nutritional yeast, turmeric, garlic powder, and almond milk and whisk to combine. Set aside.

» Add olive oil to a heated cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu block and cook for 2 minutes while breaking up tofu with a fork. Add in almond milk mixture and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Transfer to a plate, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with chopped chives.

BLACK BEAN BURGER

»

INGREDIENTS (serves 4)

1/2 red pepper

1/2 red onion

1 garlic clove

1 15-oz. can or jar of black beans

3/4 cup cooked quinoa ( 1/4 cup raw quinoa cooked per instructions on bag)

1 egg

1 tsp. ground cumin

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. black pepper

2 tbsp. olive oil

» Dice red pepper, red onion, and garlic. Drain black beans. In a bowl, combine beans, cooked quinoa, egg, spices, and diced vegetables. Form the mixture into patties.

» Add olive oil to a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 5-6 minutes on each side (you may flip twice to ensure they are well browned but not burnt). Serve with your favorite bun or lettuce cup and traditional garnishes.

GOOD NATURE

TEA FOR TWO

BY TAMMY FENDER

The act of growing, brewing, and drinking herbal tea is a process that soothes the body and mind. While I tend to drink tea throughout the day, the cup I cherish most is the last—the one I sip as the day winds down and I move slowly through my nighttime skin routine before finally settling in with a book. That being said, there are few things I love more than wandering through the garden with my daughter, Savi, and picking herbs for our tea. In the morning, we go for mint or tulsi, with Savi taking hers with milk and honey from our beehive. Come evening, tulsi is still a go-to, but chamomile enters the picture too.

The ritual of preparing tea creates a portal, carving out a space for quiet conversation. Inviting a friend to the garden for afternoon tea and serving it in a beautiful way delights the senses and slows down time. It’s an experience full of ceremonial intention: I can stop and take in the lushness of the garden, the scent of the brewing leaves, the way my Japanese teacup fi ts in the palm of my hand, the stories my friend has to share. It’s nothing like meeting in a busy coffee shop. You clear away the noise and forge a heart’s connection—with the friend, your own thoughts, your surroundings, and the plants themselves.

In Southwest Florida, aromatic herbs like tulsi (or holy basil) and mint grow readily. Known as the “queen of herbs,” tulsi is the tea I recommend most often to clients. In ancient Indian Ayurvedic traditions, it has long been regarded as a sacred herb, one that brings energetic lightness, clarity, and warmth. It can also help balance the body and promote an overall sense of well-being, regardless of whether you drink it as a tea or even add a few leaves to a hot bath. Furthermore, scientific research has linked tulsi with positive effects on memory, cognition, and stress relief. In my own practice, I’ve found tulsi tea to be a gentle alternative for those for whom more powerful interventions might be disruptive.

Another favorite is mint, especially spearmint, which is lovely to serve to dinner guests after a meal to support digestion and refresh the mind. Revered in so many ancient Mediterranean cultures for its ability to relieve tension, spearmint is gaining interest among scientific communities for its relaxation benefits. It seems that science is catching up with what herbalists have known all along. «

FROM THE GARDEN TO YOUR CUP, HERBAL TEAS HAVE VAST BENEFITS FOR WELL-BEING

Aromatic herbs such as tulsi (above) and mint (inset) contribute to the soothing effects of teas.

The Fountain of Youth

Honor your skin in all of life’s phases with luxurious, ultra-advanced formulas that prevent and reverse environmental damage, smooth texture, minimize fine lines, correct discoloration, and stimulate collagen production. Put your best face forward at any age with these picks: Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 Foundation, a “your skin but better” fluid foundation with skin-smoothing niacinamide, squalane, and hyaluronic acid ($48, Sephora, Naples); Invity Youth Activating Cream Concentrate ($89) and Youth Activating Instant Filler ($65 for five individual packages, myinvity.com); Le Domaine Skincare The Cleansing Emulsion ($77) and The Cream, both touting GSM10, a patented active compound that aids in graceful aging ($242, le-domaine.com); Chanel Le Lift Pro Crème Volume ($200) and Le Lift Pro Massage Tool ($82, Chanel counters); and Susanne Kaufmann Rejuvenating Night Cream, packed with renewing meadowfoam seed oil, rosehip extract, silk protein, CoQ10, and moth bean extract to leave you glowing ($215, susannekaufmann.com). —Abigail Duffy

ASHLEY MEYER

WEALTH COMMON Ground

TRACKING THE NEWEST TRENDS IN CHARITABLE GIVING

BY JUDY MARTEL

For the most part, Floridians kept their charitable dollars close to home in 2021, with 65 percent of their donations remaining in the state, according to a study by Florida Nonprofit Alliance, the Jessie Ball duPont Fund, and the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. A front-row seat to the hardships resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic might have had something to do with that, says Leah McDermott, program manager at Florida Nonprofit Alliance.

“I do think the compassion by donors and the drive toward informal and in-kind giving has to do with being home during the pandemic and seeing what went on in the community,” McDermott says. Nationally, there was a spike in overall charitable giving in 2020, when the country was deep into the pandemic, she notes. Although donations dropped again in 2021 to below 2020 levels, they were still higher than in 2019.

Going forward, there is early evidence that donors may be returning to pre-pandemic giving patterns, moving away from a hyper-local focus, says Jonathan Bergdoll, applied statistician for IUPUI Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. But for now, giving locally is still a common thread in Florida. “In many ways, the pandemic helped highlight or exacerbate the need that was already there, so donors could react to this by continuing to give more locally than previously.”

Moved by poverty and income inequality, more than eight in ten Floridians report that they were driven to give by compassion toward people in need, according to the study. The top issues after poverty were health, climate change and environment, animal rights, and disaster relief.

In a possible peek into the future of giving, the report also notes that donors under the age of 40 were less likely to make giving decisions based on tax deductions and

more likely to give informally, by donating food, volunteering at shelters, or putting cash directly into the hands of those in need. The high-net-worth and those over 65 are more likely to give formally, to established institutions.

“Historically, people become more formal with their giving as they age; however, there are things working against that trend now,” says Bergdoll. “Under the current tax code, only about one in nine households is eligible to deduct their charitable contributions, so most people will never have a tax incentive to give their money to a formal charitable organization as compared to, say, a friend in need or a political party.”

The study brings to light the fact that formal giving is not the only way to help people, says McDermott. “We want to get a better idea of what informal giving looks like. It’s always been around, but over the past 10 years, technology that allows platforms like GoFundMe have made it even easier to give.”

There’s also a certain mistrust of large organizations, and McDermott says she’s counseling nonprofi ts to communicate better. “It

brings to light that we have more work to do to overcome misconceptions about how money is spent. We find that by talking clearly about expenses and being more open results in a positive response from the public. They understand that the electric bill has to be paid to keep the organization running because they deal with that kind of thing in their own lives.” «

A heritage of trust. A modern approach. in Southwest Florida.

HERE FOR YOU

For more than a century* we have built deep and lasting relationships by providing innovative advice for complex situations. We invite you to leverage our expertise in:

Investment Management I Private Banking Trust and Estate I Family Office Custom Aviation, Marine, Art, and Unique Property Lending

Contact Curt Edwards at 239.313.1583

850 PARK SHORE DRIVE SUITE 200 NAPLES, FLORIDA 34103

*Wilmington Trust traces its roots to the founding of Wilmington Trust Company in 1903.

Wilmington Trust is a registered service mark used in connection with services offered by certain subsidiaries of M&T Bank Corporation. This material is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as an offer or solicitation.

Investment products are not insured by the FDIC or any other governmental agency, are not deposits of or other obligations of or guaranteed by Wilmington Trust, M&T Bank, or any other bank or entity, and are subject to investment risks, including the possible loss of the principal amount invested.

Private Banking is the marketing name for an offering of M&T Bank deposit and loan products and services. Private Bankers are M&T Bank employees. Equal Housing Lender. Loans, retail and business deposits, and other personal and business banking services and products are offered by M&T Bank, Equal Housing Lender Bank NMLS #381076. ©2023 M&T Bank and its affiliates and subsidiaries. All rights reserved. AMP 3685 221229 VF

Gregory A. Otis, Lisa A. Drescher, Curt Edwards - President, SWFL, Kerry A. Edwards

We are Naples Strong and we’re here to help you with all your Real Estate needs.

• John R. Wood Properties was chosen by Christie’s International Real Estate and we hope you choose the Bua Bell Group.

• Our team is pleased to have added two additional family members, Shane Bua and his wife Taylor Meritt Bua, who have moved here from Los Angeles. Joining our current team that already includes Jill Hall, Kiren Jones & Lauren Hussey

• Emily K. Bua is the proud recipient of the John R. Wood Christie’s International Real Estate Lifetime Achievement Award.

• Proud to be one of Naples Illustrated Top 100 Influential Business Leaders for the second year in a row.

• For Over 17 Years The #1 Mother - Daughter Real Estate Team in th Southwest Florida Market.

• Select the Best!

We would love to bring our expertise to work for you

buabellsellsnaples.com buabellgroup@johnrwood.com Emily 239-659-6115 Tade 239-595-0097

WATERFRONT ELEGANCE

Shores. With a three-car garage and nearly 5,000 square feet of elegant yet comfortable living space, this bespoke residence features five bedrooms with en-suite baths, plus all of today’s modern conveniences. Home automation, sound and security camera systems, Vantage low-voltage lighting, a home generator, natural gas, and fiber internet make for easy living. The outdoor area includes a large, covered kitchen with a fireplace, warmly accented by cypress tongue-and-groove ceilings and protected by electric roll-down shades and hurricane shutters. Unique indoor features include wide-plank oak wood flooring, Ruffino custom cabinetry, quartzite and natural stone countertops, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a 1,000-bottle temperature-controlled wine room.

With nearby Gulf access, the oversize south-facing waterfront lot features IPE dockage for two boat lifts (4,500 and 27,000 pounds), a koi pond, a 46-foot lap pool and spa, and an outdoor shower.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Dawn McKenna Group

Ardel McKenna Phone: 239-961-1196 Email: ardel@dawnmckennagroup.com

Ashley Baird Phone: 239-300-8476 Email: ashley@dawnmckennagroup.com

ELEGANT YET COMFORTABLE LIVING SPACES TAKE CENTER STAGE IN THIS WATERFRONT HOME.

Lee McCarthy

VISUALIZING CLIMATE DISRUPTION

601 Lake Avenue, Lake Worth Beach, FL 33460

JANUARY 27 – APRIL 8, 2023 palmbeachculture.com/exhibitions

Florida artists are uniquely positioned to observe the effects of climate disruption, as the state is on the front lines of sea level rise, climbing temperatures, catastrophic storms, devastation of coral reefs, and disappearing seagrasses.

This exhibition, with more than 40 works by 15 Palm Beach County-based professional artists, will explore the effects of climate disruption and engage audiences in considering topics such as endangered species, shrinking habitats, pollution, and coastal resiliency. Opportunities to learn about these important topics through family-friendly educational programming produced by Cox Science Center and Aquarium will be included in the exhibition.

TALK Saturday, February 4, 2023, 2 p.m. RSVP: palmbeachculture.com/exhibitions

Robert M. Montgomery, Jr. Building

Generously sponsored by:

Gisela Pferdekamper,

Presented by:

Frances and Jeffrey Fisher In partnership with:

ART

Panel Discussion with Environmental Arts Writer Mary Jo Aagerstoun

SCENE

THE HOTTEST CULTURE AND COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS

TOP BILLING

CAPTURING the Art in Nature

An amazing world exists only 15 minutes (by car) from downtown Naples. Located at the northern end of the Ten Thousand Islands, rivers and streams meet the sea at the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Stretching across 110,000 acres of pristine mangrove forest, uplands, and protected waters and encompassing up to 40 percent of the Collier County coastline, this vital estuarine habitat is home to myriad wildlife, including 150 species of birds and many threatened and endangered animals.

The reserve is a national treasure committed to preservation through research, education, and land protection. It is also home to the environmental learning center, a two-story, 16,500-square-foot facility with four research laboratories, classrooms, and a 140-seat auditorium, offering a variety of hands-on experiences and exhibits.

During the month of February, the reserve is offering lectures and workshops that help capture the beauty and art in nature. Learn how to take the best pictures possible and understand your digital

camera’s features in the Essentials of Digital Photography workshop taught by Sonny Saunders on February 18.

The 2023 lunch and learn lecture series focuses on key conservation projects occurring at the reserve; on February 8 the discussion, led by Rookery Bay biologists and researchers, will address fisheries. On February 9, spend a morning painting the beauty of coastal Naples and the wildlife of estuary waters in a watercolor painting class on manatees with local artist Jan Deswick.

If you would rather learn from home, take part in a one-and-a-halfhour Zoom session on February 22 on how to identify birds and their amazing migratory journeys. (rookerybay.org) –Gaylene Salomons

Throughout February, Rookery Bay is offering a series of lectures and workshops that help capture the beauty and art in nature.

ARTS & EVENTS

GOINGS ON & PERFORMANCES

1 The Game’s Afoot, The Naples Players, Blackburn Hall, Sugden Community Theatre, Naples, to Feb. 5, $47. (naplesplayers.org)

Jewish Book Festival, author event with Marjorie Margolies (And How Are the Children?), Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, in-person and virtual, $25. (jewishbook festival.org)

Make-and-Take, fun family workshop in the John and Jeanne Rowe Performance and Learning Center, The Baker Museum, Artis—Naples, free with museum admission. (artisnaples.org)

Sunset Wednesdays, enjoy extended hours to savor the magic of a Naples sunset, Naples Botanical Garden, also Feb. 8, 15, and 22, free with garden admission. (naplesgarden.org)

The Sweet Remains, three-man folk band, Daniels Pavilion, Artis—Naples, $49. (artisnaples.org)

Clockwise from top left: La Boutique de Fleurs by Laurent Parcelier and Blue Lake by Hervé Lenouvel, on display at East West Fine Art February 3-23; Miami City Ballet performs Diversion of Angels February 28 at Hayes Hall, Artis—Naples.

COURTESY OF EAST WEST FINE ART

COURTESY OF EAST WEST FINE ART

© GARY JAMES

2 The Independents, musical comedy-drama film starring The Sweet Remains, Daniels Pavilion, Artis—Naples, $20. (artisnaples.org)

3 Nick Linn Lecture Series, Delia Owens, author of Where the Crawdads Sing, and New York Times best-selling author Mary Alice Monroe, The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, tickets sold as a series package, $500-$675. (collier-friends.org)

4 Art in the Park, juried art show, Cambier Park, Naples, free. (fifthavenuesouth.com)

Ferrari Club of Naples Annual Cars on 5th Show, Fifth Avenue, Naples, (fifthavenuesouth.com)

Opera to Broadway, concert featuring solos and ensembles by great American composers, Innovation Hotel, Naples, $100. (gulfshoreopera.com)

7 Early Birding Walk, Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, eastern Collier County, also Feb. 14 and 21, ages 16 and up, $30. (cork screw.audubon.org)

On Your Feet!, true story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan, Hayes Hall, Artis—Naples, to Feb. 10, $85 and up. (artisnaples.org)

8 Research in the Reserve, lunch and learn lecture series, Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, Naples, $20. (rookerybay.org)

PICKS

GULFSHORE OPERA PRESENTS GIOACHINO ROSSINI’S THE BARBER OF SEVILLE AT THE SILVERSPOT CINEMA IN A WHIMSICAL NEW PRODUCTION FROM FEBRUARY 19-26; ALL TICKETS INCLUDE AN OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THE ARTISTS AT A RECEPTION FOLLOWING THE PRODUCTION. (GULFSHORE OPERA.ORG)

2From top: Ferrari Club of Naples presents its Annual Cars on 5th Show February 4; view “Bloom Ka-Pow!”, Carmelo Blandino’s exhibition at Wasmer Art Gallery, to March 2.

9 Escape to Margaritaville, hilarious musical featuring classic Jimmy Buffet hits, TheatreZone, G&L Theatre at Community School of Naples, to Feb. 19, $50-$85. (theatre.zone)

Evening on Fifth, live musical performances along Fifth Avenue South, Naples, free. (fifthavenuesouth.com)

Watercolors & Wildlife, paint the beauty of coastal Naples with local artist Jan Deswik, Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, Naples, $85. (rookerybay.org)

10 Annual Ikebana Exhibit, enjoy the Japanese art of flower arranging, Naples Botanical Garden, also Feb. 11 and 12, free with admission to garden. (naplesgarden.org)

11 Fine Arts & Craft Show, Cambier Park, Naples, free. (fifthavenuesouth.com)

Lerner & Loewe’s Camelot, Norris Center, Naples, through March 12, $45 and up. (gulfshoreplayhouse.org)

SIP AND SAVOR

Winter in Florida brings cooler temperatures, shorter days, and glorious sunsets.

Taking full advantage of its location near the preserve lake, with views extending westward, the Naples Botanical Garden extends its regular hours on Wednesdays in the month of February, from 5 to 8 p.m., so guests can take a leisurely stroll through the garden and exhibits, while savoring the magic of the setting sun.

The Fogg Café will offer a full menu, food specials, and half-price bottles of wine. Don’t forget to stop by the Berger Shop in the Garden, which will also remain open later than usual. (naplesgarden.org) G.S.

NAPLES ART DISTRICT

ONCE AGAIN WELCOMES VISITORS TO ITS NEIGHBORHOOD TO VIEW “ARTFUL ARRANGEMENTS,” A MYRIAD SELECTION OF CREATIVE FLORAL INTERPRETATIONS OF ORIGINAL ARTWORKS, FEBRUARY 22-25. (NAPLESART DISTRICT.COM) G.S.

Music in the Garden, area musicians perform on the outdoor stage in the Water Garden, Naples Botanical Garden, included with regular admission. (naplesgarden.org)

14 Jewish Book Festival, author event with Shaunna Edwards and Alyson Richman (The Thread Collectors), Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, virtual, $25. (jewishbookfestival.org)

Special Evening on Fifth, live musical performances along Fifth Avenue South, Naples, free. (fifthavenuesouth.com)

15 Super Duos, a celebration of the world’s greatest vocal duos, Daniels Pavilion, Artis—Naples, $64. (artisnaples.org)

THESE EVENT DETAILS ARE CURRENT AS OF PRESS TIME, BUT PLEASE CONTACT THE VENUE OR PRESENTER FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION.

SCENE

LOVE ON THE CANVAS

It’s a “once in a lifetime opportunity,” explains Courtney McNeil, director and chief curator at The Baker Museum at Artis—Naples, about the groundbreaking exhibition “Love Stories.”

Starting February 4, masterpieces from the collection of the National Portrait Gallery in London will be on display, arguing that ideas of love and desire have been critical to the development of portraiture from the sixteenth century to the present day.

16 Naples Philharmonic Masterworks: Georgia O’Keeffe and the Brightness of Light, featuring Renée Fleming as soprano, Hayes Hall, Artis—Naples, $15 and up. (artisnaples.org)

18 Essentials of Digital Photography Workshop, Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, Naples, $55. (rookerybay.org)

Sensory Friendly Saturday, guests, families, and individuals with autism spectrum disorder are invited to experience the peacefulness and serenity of the garden with hands-on activities, Naples Botanical Garden, free. (naplesgarden.org)

19 Dancing with the Stars—Live!, America’s favorite dance show is back on tour, Hayes Hall, Artis—Naples, $89 and up. (artisnaples.org)

21 Unforgettable: Nat and Natalie, Naples Philharmonic Pops, Hayes Hall, Artis—Naples, also Feb. 22 and 23, $68 and up. (artisnaples.org)

Youth of the Year, the Boys & Girls Club of Collier County celebrates the achievements of club members, Club Pelican Bay, Naples, $750. (bgccc.com)

22 Art After Hours, an evening of art and entertainment for audiences of all ages, The Baker Museum and Hayes Hall Galleries, Artis—Naples, free. (artisnaples.org)

Virtual Binoculars Birding Workshop, learn to identify shore and sea birds, Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, Naples, $15. (rookerybay.org)

24 Naples Orchid Society Show and Sale, Naples Botanical Garden, to Feb. 26, free with admission to garden. (naplesorchidsociety.org)

25 Naples Art National Art Fair, Cambier Park, Naples, also Feb. 26, free. (naplesart.org)

“The portraits in this inspiring exhibition consider topics including the role of portraiture in depicting partnership, documenting tragedy and scandal, and redefining the relationship between the artist and the muse,” McNeil remarks. Featured artists include Sir Joshua Reynolds, Angelica Kauffman, Man Ray, Lee Miller, David Hockney, and more. Support for the exhibition is provided by the Collier County Tourist Development Council. (artisnaples.org/baker-museum/) G.S.

Night of Champions, Champions for Learning honors all those involved in changing the lives of Collier County students, Naples Grande Beach Resort, $400. (championsforlearning.org)

Wishmaker’s Wish Upon a Star Party, witness the impact wishes have on local children at this evening celebration, exclusive private club, Naples, $475. (wish.org/sfla)

26 The Beach Boys, Hayes Hall, Artis—Naples, $85 and up. (artisnaples.org)

Gulfshore Opera presents The Barber of Seville, classic comedy with a playful energy, Silverspot Cinema, Naples, $125. (gulfshoreopera.org)

28 Jewish Book Festival, author event with Lori Banov Kaufmann (Rebel Daughter), Jewish Federation of Greater Naples, virtual, $18. (jewishbookfestival.org)

Miami City Ballet with the Naples Philharmonic, Hayes Hall, Artis—Naples, $65 and up. (artisnaples.org)

Style and Song Luncheon, annual luncheon and fashion show with the men of Gulfshore Opera, Grey Oaks Country Club, Naples, $100. (gulfshoreopera.com)

VISUAL ARTS & GALLERIES

The Baker Museum at Artis—Naples. “Helen Frankenthaler: Late Works, 1990-2003,” to Feb. 5; “Envisioning Evil: ‘The Nazi Drawings’ by Mauricio Lasansky,” to Feb. 19; “Love Stories” from the National Portrait Gallery, London, to May 7; “Naples Collects 2022-23” to Oct. 15. (artisnaples.org)

East West Fine Art, Naples. “Crème Brule and Champagne,” an exhibition of vistas of French cities and countryside by renowned French artists Laurent Parcelier and Hervé Lenouvel, Feb. 3-23. (eastwest fineart.com)

Marco Island Center for the Arts. “Pastel Society,” through Feb. 28. (marcoislandart.org)

Marco Island Historical Museum. “Clyde Butcher’s Cuba: The Natural Beauty,” large format black and white images feature the beauty of the island of Cuba, to April 29. (themihs.org)

Naples Art District. “Artful Arrangements,” original artwork interpreted in floral designs, Feb. 22-25. (naplesartdistrict.com)

Wasmer Art Gallery, Florida Gulf Coast University, Estero. “Bloom Ka-Pow!”, Carmelo Blandino art exhibition co-curated by Method & Concept, to March 2. (fgcu.edu)

©2023 Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC. All rights reserved. Naples Illustrated [ISSN 10996303] [USPS # 16626] is published monthly, except August, by Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC. Known office of the publication: 3066 Tamiami Trail N, Suite 102, Naples, FL 34103. Periodical postage paid at West Palm Beach, FL and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Naples Illustrated c/o Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC., P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL 33480. Subscription price: $35 per year. Outside U.S. add $40 per year for postage and handling. Send subscription orders to: Subscription Department, Naples Illustrated, P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL, 33480 or email: circulation@naplesillustrated.com, fax (561) 659-1736. Volume 26, No. 2, February 2023.

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Naples Illustrated and Palm Beach Media Group North, LLC. retain exclusive rights to all editorial and photographic materials used, which cannot be reproduced in any manner without written consent.

© NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY, LONDON

© NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY, LONDON

© NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY, LONDON

Clockwise from top left: David Garrick; Eva Maria Garrick by Sir Joshua Reynolds; Linda McCartney; Paul McCartney by Humphrey Ocean; Peter Pears; Benjamin Britten by Kenneth Green

HOT SHOT

At the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, you’ll find a trio of 3-year-old red-ruffed lemur brothers whose names might have you craving nachos: Jalapeño, Chip, and this handsome hottie, Pico. These critically endangered prosimians sport a ruff of reddish fringe that feathers out from a pointy black snout, with a patch of white at the neck providing contrast to their ginger coat. Six bottom incisors form a nifty toothcomb to groom their plush fur and peel fruit, which makes up approximately 90 percent of their diet. According to the zookeepers who know Pico best, he likes to nosh on grapes, bananas, and the occasional flower. His species, native to Madagascar, is known to fight over figs and eat shoots and leaves, too.

–Patricia Janeway BLAKE SMITH