Focus

MAR/APR 2014
FOCusof SWFL
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CONTENT
Collier - Sarasota - Charlotte - Lee
94
22 Afraid
25 Eat Like an Athlete
29 Fitter, Healthier You
30 Staying Healthy Over 50
33 Refuel Your Muscles
34 Skewed Work-Life Balance?
39 Protecting Your Identity & Money
41 Putting Off Your Taxes
43 4 Percent Rule
44 Financial Resolutions
48 FOR FREE
50 Your
62 Are You Doing it Right…
64 Next Battle Against Aging
68 Reception
70 Wedding
72 Designer Zac Posen
74 Banking on Your Terms
77 Will Social Security Be in the Mail 2015?
82 Visual Signature
84 Striking Appearance
108 Spring into Style
118 Too Hot
52
106
56
128
88
54
10 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
78

CONTENT
Collier - Sarasota - Charlotte - Lee
142
148
202
170
154 Keep Connected
156 Grande Dames Tea
160 Lawn Care Myths
162 The Hemingway
164 Bringing the Outside Indoors
166 Laundry Room Transformations
168 Inspired Lighting
178 Italian wine series
180 From Nurse to Patient
182 Long-Term Care Cost 101
184 Start
186 Eye Health
188 Good Oral Health Habits
199 Artist Marvin Gralnick
205 Heart Healthy
209 Coastal-Inspired Creation
210 Culinary Adventure
213 Fuel Your Active Lifestyle
214 Fight the Flu
News & Info
167 Winner of Gasparilla Poster Design
181 Employees Save 86 Lives
185 Raising Funds to Help Cancer Patients
12 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
A r t i s t
Gallery
200
134
190
FOCus
Magazine
www.focusofswfl.com
Publisher: Focus Magazine of SWFL
Cover Photography: VINCENT GOTTI
Model: CLAUDIA GALLO – Courtesy of STARS MODEL MANAGEMENT
Hair and Make-Up: OZZIE MENDOZA
Stylist: ERIN ECKERT
Stylist Assistant: KELLI DALEY
Lighting Director: SCOTT NOBLES
Photographer's Assistant: CHRISTIAN THOMAS
Creative Director: NICCANOR
Jewelry Provided by: ERIC ECKERT
Contributors:
of SWFL
Terri Profetto, Mai Yomioto, Ginny Grimsley, Allison Stephens, Michelle Tomao,
Fernanda Calfat, Arun Nevader, Neilson Barnard, Albert Urso, Scott Black, Laura
Ferreira, Antonio Martez, Scott Black, Dan Myricks, Krystina Woldanowski,
Samantha Ramos, Frazer Harrison, Alexandra Cook, Melissa DeHaven, Susan
Bennett, Diane VanArsdale, Richard Evans, Jim France, Richard Ramos
Focus Magazine of SWFL is published Bimonthly. Articles do not
necessarily reflect Focus Magazine of SWFL policy. © 2010 Focus
Magazine of SWFL, All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or
whole without permission is prohibited. Postmaster: Send all
remittances and correspondences about subscriptions, undelivered
copies and address changes to: Focus Magazine of SWFL at
105 Triple Diamond Blvd, Suite 101, Venice, FL 34275. Editorial,
publishing and advertising offices.
questions@focusofswfl.com

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

1. KISS - Keep It Simple Stupid
The first stage lasts seven days. Only eat protein and
reduce fat consumption, as the body's burning of protein
actually assists in the burning of the body's fat cells, so
you achieve weight-and size-reduction by the end of the
first week.
Afraid
to Step on a Scale
By Michelle Tomao
The first thing most readers will notice about Judy Condon's
new book, Nothing Tastes as Good as Skinny, is the
statement on its cover: "This ain't no diet book."
Why the disclaimer? Because according to Condon, the
word "diet" implies a beginning and an end; meaning
when you reach your target weight you are finished and
can revert to your normal eating habits, however ill-advised
they might be.
Not so with Condon's program for weight loss, which she
describes in the book's introduction as "a new way of eating
you can live with forever."
In addition to adopting a new way of eating, Condon also
urges readers to adopt a new way of looking at themselves
and their bodies; one based on total honesty and
total accountability.
2. Go for the Gold
This is your food plan until you achieve your target
weight, which can take anywhere from 2-to 3 weeks or
6-to 8 months, depending on the amount of weight you
need to lose. Here you should begin to add variety to your
meals: two days protein only, as you followed in the KISS
stage, but every third day proteins and vegetables. Avoid
vegetables high in sugar and carbohydrate content, such
as carrots and corn.
3. Celebrate You
Now you have reached your target weight, so your menu
opens up and offers more choices. By this point, sound
and healthy ways of eating and managing food have
become established. Your weekly plan consists of two
days protein only, five days protein, vegetables, fruits and
processed carbs. Any one day during the week may be
designated as a 'free day' where you are free to experience
any foods of your choice.
After winning a lifelong 50-year struggle with her own
weight, Condon says she became inspired to put her experiences
and successes in book-form in order to empower
others with enough information to take control of their
food and their lives.
"Successful weight loss often requires a lot of 'tough love'
- don't be afraid to use it," Condon says. "Come along if
you dare."
"We can't pull punches when we examine our bodies and
the bodies of our loved-ones," says Condon. "We need a
little blunt language and blunt language can be painful.
Only when you see a thing for what it really is are you
then able to change it into something truly better."
Once the reader completes an honest self-assessment and
accepts total responsibility for their condition, Condon lays
out for them the three essential stages to achieving lasting
weight loss:
22 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
www.asgoodasskinny.com

Eat
Like an
Athlete
Family Features
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
It is common to pair an exercise routine with a plan to
cut calories and improve eating habits. While this good
old fashioned approach to getting in shape is a smart and
healthy one, it’s important that your new diet provides
adequate nutrition to fuel your exercise.
Food is your body’s energy source, and giving yourself
a boost of energy before your workout is a sound strategy
for powering your workout. Afterward, you will have
depleted a good portion of your energy reserves, so it’s
important to refuel post-workout, as well.
While your doctor or a nutritionist can help you determine
your body’s exact needs based on your physical activity
level, age and body type, you can get started keeping
these tips in mind:
• Create an eating plan that incorporates carbohydrates
and protein, as well as fat in moderation. Carbohydrates
are what the body converts into glucose, which in turn,
muscles use for energy. Protein slows the absorption of
carbs, prolonging your body’s access to the energy they
provide. Your body needs moderate amounts of fat, too,
which can be found in a wide range of low-fat foods such
as milk and lean meats. Aim to incorporate each of these
food categories into every meal.
• Timing when you eat will affect how much energy you
have to exercise. A small snack before you get started
may give you the power you need for a successful workout.
• Before beginning a workout, start with a warm-up. Rather
than static stretches (holding a stretch for a period of
time), which can actually have an adverse effect on your
muscles, incorporate a dynamic stretching routine with
more movement to get blood flowing, increase muscle
temperature and kick-start your nervous system.
• While working out, and throughout the day, stay hydrated.
Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day, and more if
your workouts are strenuous or lengthy. Also avoid caffeine,
which may give you a short-term boost but actually
dehydrates your body.
• Within one hour of finishing your workout, refuel your
muscles with a dairy-based protein beverage. Milk contains
high-quality protein and essential amino acids that
can be particularly beneficial in building and maintaining
muscle mass when combined with exercise. Several
recent studies suggest low-fat milk after exercise can help
increase lean muscle.
“Milk is an excellent source of natural protein,” said Blake
Atkinson, director of brand management for Shamrock
Farms. “For people looking to build and tone lean muscle,
a smart addition to their post-workout nutrition is a beverage
that contains calcium, vitamin D and potassium, all of
which are essential nutrients naturally found in milk.”
One example is the new Rockin’ Refuel Lean Recovery, a
protein beverage made with 100 percent real milk has the
recommended 2:1 carb to protein ratio for muscle recovery.
The beverage offers 17 grams of high quality protein
with no sugar added.
Just as you need to give your car gas to make it go, your
body needs fuel to perform its best, especially when
you’re starting a new fitness program. Proper nutrition will
give you the energy you need to create new healthy, active
habits to last all year long.
www. rockinrefuel.com
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 25

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

Photo courtesy of Getty Images
Fitter,
Healthier
YOU
Family Features
If kicking off a life-changing fitness and nutrition program seems
daunting, try taking smaller steps to make it feel more manageable.
Knowing just where to start can be the biggest hurdle, but
once you’re on your way, you’ll find yourself on the path to new
healthy habits before you know it. Breaking down a whole new
lifestyle into week-by-week chunks will not only let you ease in
gradually, but also allow you to make meaningful changes right
from the start.
Begin by charting out a week-long plan that will make you more
conscious of how you approach important elements of your program
including muscle toning, cardio and making nutritious food
choices. Here’s a five-day schedule to get you started:
Monday: Start the Week Strong – Kick off the week with a
medicine ball workout, which is a great way to work various
muscles all at once. Try using a medicine ball with exercises that
you’re already familiar with, such as push-ups, lunges or squats,
or look up demo videos online to learn some new ways to use the
medicine ball.
Tuesday: Turn it Up – Running is a great form of exercise, but
it’s important to mix up your cardio workouts to help prevent
injury and become stronger overall. Grab your friends and try a
cardio-focused class, such as Zumba.
Wednesday: Spruce Up Your Fruit – Working out is key to keeping
fit, but so is maintaining a healthy diet. When shopping for
snacks, make smart choices that taste delicious, such as Dole
Fruit in Jars, which provide five servings of all natural, fresh fruit.
Try pairing with Daisy Cottage Cheese to spruce up your fruit for
a tasty parfait. Simply combine Dole Sliced Peaches, Daisy Low
Fat Cottage Cheese and sliced almonds in a small bowl, then
drizzle with honey and enjoy.
Thursday: Multi-task – Just because you’re catching up on
your favorite TV show doesn’t mean you can’t work out. Clear
some space between the couch and TV so you can watch while
you do push-ups, crunches, jumping jacks and squats. For extra
motivation, leave your fitness tools near the television as a daily
reminder.
Friday: Give Yourself a Star – Gold stars aren’t just for classrooms.
At the end of the week, mark each day that you exercised
with a star on your calendar. Whether you went for a run, hit the
gym or went for a walk with friends, the calendar will be a visual
reminder of how often you’ve been working out, and will encourage
you to keep going.
Remember, setting a long-term goal, such as running a marathon
or dropping two dress sizes, can help keep you motivated over
time, but also remember to celebrate your first mile run or your
first five-pound loss. Keep tackling your new program one week
at a time, and your goals will easily become reality.
www.dole.com
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 29

Staying
Healthy
Over
50Family Features
A healthy lifestyle is necessary at any age, but for those over 50, it’s
especially important. As you age, your body changes, and your risk
for health problems increases. Fortunately, there are three simple
things you can do to lead a healthier and happier life.
Eat Heart Healthy
If high blood pressure isn’t controlled through lifestyle changes and/
or medicine, it can lead to stroke, heart disease, eye problems and
other serious health issues.
A great way to establish a heart healthy diet is by reducing your
sodium intake, which may reduce the risk of high blood pressure.
Starting the day with a low-sodium ready-to-eat breakfast cereal is
just one way to choose a healthier lifestyle. For example, according
to a recent survey, 9 out of 10 physicians recommend Post Shredded
Wheat cereal as part of a low-sodium diet to help support healthy
blood pressure levels, (based on an online survey of 400 physicians
conducted by Wakefield Research. Results of any sample are subject
to sampling variation).
Enjoy Nutrient-Dense Foods
As you age, your body needs fewer calories for energy – but still
needs the same amount of nutrients. It’s important to make your
calories count by eating foods packed with good nutrition
such as:
• Fruits and vegetables: Fresh, canned, frozen – it doesn’t matter.
Vegetables are loaded with vitamins and minerals your body needs.
• Protein: Add some variety to your diet with delicious protein sources
such as fish, beans and peas.
• Whole grains: The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends
at least three servings of whole-grain foods each day (16g per serving
or 48g per day).
Get Moving
Physical activity and regular exercise can decrease the risk of heart
disease, stroke, colon cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure. The
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend those 65
years of age or older, who are generally fit, and have no limiting
health conditions, try to get:
• Two hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes) of moderate-intensity
aerobic activity, such as brisk walking or yoga, and
• Muscle-strengthening activities two or more days a week.
You should consult your physician or other health care professional
before making changes to your diet or exercise plan to determine
what is right for your needs.
www.PostShreddedWheat.com
30 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
In addition to taking up walking or yoga, joining group activities
or sports are great ways to keep moving. In 2014, Post Shredded
Wheat will be partnering with the National Senior Games to grant
20 seniors the opportunity to participate in their local Senior Games.
Those who submit entries will also be asked to sign a petition to get
the National Senior Games to add a 20th sport in 2015. To apply
and sign the Post Shredded Wheat “Game On” petition, visit www.
PostShreddedWheatGames.com.
Taking care of your blood pressure, enjoying healthy foods, and
staying active are three steps you can start taking today to help you
get and stay healthy for tomorrow.

Refuel Your
Muscles
Family Features
When you cool down and towel off after a long workout,
you’re not quite done taking care of your body.
It’s important to refuel your muscles, too.
Photos courtesy of Getty Images
Moderate- to high-intensity workouts use up your
body’s stores of glycogen, the main fuel used to get
you through those workouts. The American Council
on Exercise (ACE) says that if you work out at a moderate-
to high-intensity rate for 90 minutes or longer,
you should have a healthy refueling drink within 30
minutes post-workout.
After a long workout, many people reach for a favorite
sports drink, water or maybe even juice. But
there’s actually a great workout recovery drink option:
chocolate milk. It may surprise you to learn that
the drink you loved as a kid is actually an excellent
post-exercise recovery beverage.
Compared to juice, water or some sports drinks,
chocolate milk has double the carbohydrate and
protein content, which is ideal for replenishing tired
muscles. Its high water content replaces fluids and
electrolytes that are lost during exercise and, unlike
water or sports drinks, chocolate milk packs in the
additional benefit of calcium, and includes just the
right amount of sodium and sugar – which may help
you retain water and regain energy.
Like regular milk, chocolate milk provides eight essential
nutrients: calcium, protein, vitamins A, D and
B12, riboflavin, phosphorus and potassium.
“Together, these nutrients help strengthen bones
and build and repair muscles,” said Willow Jarosh MS,
RD of C&J Nutrition. “And a low-fat chocolate milk,
like TruMoo, which has no high fructose corn syrup
and 35 percent less sugar than a leading chocolate
milk brand, is a practical way to get the nutrients we
need without all the sugar we don't. Plus, it’s made
with fresh milk from your regional dairy, so it’s from
a source we can trust.”
The newly reformulated fat-free variety of TruMoo
contains only 120 calories, 18 grams of sugar and 6
grams of added sugar per serving, compared to other
chocolate milk formulas, which can contain high fructose
corn syrup and up to 140 calories and 12 grams
of added sugar. (TruMoo milk in California will differ
slightly in nutrition composition due to different regulatory
requirements for dairy in that state).
www.trumoo.com
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 33

Skewed Work-Life
Balance?
Photo by Abdone
With reports of the unemployment rate dropping to 7 percent,
lower than it was even five years ago and down from
a peak of 10 percent in October 2009, many are breathing
a sigh of relief. But the effects of a long bout of high
unemployment are sure to have thrown off the balance
of employee well-being, says former Exxon executive Bob
Epperly.
“Of course, the rate does not take into account those
who are underemployed, including over-skilled workers in
menial jobs and those with too few hours. For those lucky
enough to have decent employment, many feel insecure
and are willing to skew their work-life balance into a
tailspin, with exaggerated emphasis on their career,” says
Epperly, a CEO who realized at age 55 that even a very
successful career cannot fulfill every aspect of life.
“Most people cannot afford to simply refuse the demands
of their job, so what’s a worker to do?”
Epperly, author of “Growing Up After Fifty: From Exxon
Executive to Spiritual Seeker,” offers tips for correcting
lifestyle imbalance.
• It’s never enough. Ambition is admirable, but if it’s all
that drives you, no matter how much you accomplish, it will
never be enough. If professional ambition is more important
to you than anything else in your life, that’s a red flag
that your life is dangerously unbalanced. The consequences
will be painful feelings of emptiness, lack of fulfillment,
and having missed out. Take steps now to restore balance,
beginning with personal, non-work relationships.
By Ginny Grimsley
• No one ever says, at the end of their life, that they
should have worked longer and spent less time with
family. When it’s all said and done, life is short, and many
realize that time is life’s most precious resource. Intense focus
on work tends to deprive professionals of opportunities
with their loved ones – moments and memories that cannot
be replaced. Set goals for how much time you’ll spend giving
your family 100 percent of your attention each day and
week, and stick to them!
• Make communication a top priority! The importance
and value of real communication cannot be overemphasized.
“More important than speaking is listening,” Epperly
says. “My relationships immediately improved when I began
listening very carefully to what was being said.”
• Only you are responsible for your life. The Serenity
Prayer goes a long way in work-life balance; it reads: “God,
grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom
to know the difference.” Epperly says that recognizing he
is responsible for his life and focusing on the aspects of
it over which he has influence while recognizing those he
needs to let go has been pivotal.
• Accept who you are. This can be challenging; it demands
courageous self-reflection and letting go of the need
for external approval. “When a friend asked me, ‘Do you
think the world is ready to accept Bob Epperly just as he
is?’ I suddenly saw that I had always felt I had to accommodate;
that I wasn’t okay as I am,” he says. “I started to
give myself permission to be me.”
34 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
www.bobepperly.com

Read Us Everywhere
Print - Web - Mobile

Protecting
Your Identity
& MoneyBy Ginny Grimsley
At least 110 million consumers were affected by the
hack involving Target and Neiman Marcus retailers.
Whether or not millions more will have their identities
manipulated and finances ruined within the coming
months due to more breaches of security at other stores
is anyone’s guess, says identity theft recovery expert
Scott A. Merritt.
“By necessity, I became an expert on identity theft. My
information was stolen in 2006, and in repairing the
damage, I learned some not-so-obvious ways we can
all protect against identity theft in the first place,” says
Merritt, CEO of Merritt & Associates and author of "Identity
Theft Do's and Don'ts."
Merritt’s problems began quickly. While disputing financial
charges and dealing with resulting business
problems, in 2007 he was stopped for a traffic violation
and arrested on a false outstanding felony warrant. He
immediately knew why.
“I had to enlist my U.S. congressman and convince the
state police, NCIC, FBI and Secret Service that I didn’t
commit the felonies. For a few years, I had to prove that
the prints did not match the false record in question.
After legal action, however, I was able to have this corrected.”
Unfortunately, the millions affected by the recent hacks
may be dealing with similar repercussions in the years
ahead, he says.
Before you become a victim of identity theft, Merritt offers
seven ways to guard against it.
• Understand how and where it happens. Identity
theft is like being robbed when you are away from home;
most thefts occur in places where you do business every
day. Either a place of business is robbed, a bad employee
acts improperly or a hacker breaches the office
through the computer.
• Secure your wallet’s information. Photocopy everything
in your wallet: photos, credit cards (front and
back), membership cards – everything. Put the copies in
the order the cards are arranged in your wallet, staple
the pictures and place them in a strong box or safe.
• Make sure your information is consistent. For all
of your identity and financial documents, make absolutely
sure, to the smallest detail, that all of your personal
information is accurate and consistent! Discrepancies
such as using your middle initial on some documents,
and not others, or having different addresses, can wreck
havoc in proving your identity, and can compromise your
credit score.
• Secure your digital habits and data. Change your
passwords at least twice a year on a non-scheduled
basis – don’t be predictable. Have a strong firewall if you
shop online, and only access sites that are protected
by a strong firewall and high industry standards. Access
accounts of a financial nature only from your personal
computer.
• Protect your banking information. While in the
bank, keep account numbers and other data out of sight,
and avoid stating account numbers, Social Security numbers
and similar information out loud. When planning a
bank visit, have items such as deposits and withdrawal
slips prepared in advance.
• Account for your interactions with vendors. Every
time you speak to someone with whom you do business,
write down the time, date, name and the purpose
or outcome of the call. If an identity theft occurs on the
vendor’s end, you will be able to reference these prior
conversations effectively. Be sure to note any animosity
or reluctance from the vendor.
• Don’t carry around your birth certificate or Social
Security card. Unless it’s necessary, keep those
vital items in a safe, or at least a firebox. If you know
someone is going to need a copy of your tax returns
or your driver’s license, for example, make the copies
ahead of time. This avoids the need for a firm’s employee
to leave the room with such information.
“Of course, you can greatly reduce being a victim of
such recent hacks that occurred at the major retailers by
using cash more often,” he says. “But if you’re going to
use credit, use a card from a national bank or a national
credit union and never a debit card, no exceptions.”
www.scottamerritt.com
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 39

Photo by Alan Crosthwaite
Putting Off Your Taxes
By Ginny Grimsley
Nearly 150 million Americans will file federal income tax
returns this year and, unfortunately, many will be shelling
out much more of their hard-earned money than necessary,
says veteran financial expert Jeff Gorton.
“With the ridiculous complexity of our tax code, I can understand
how the average person might want to put off
doing their homework, but that’ll cost you,” says Gorton, a
veteran Certified Public Accountant and Certified Financial
Planner, and head of Gorton Financial Group.
“When you think about all you do to earn your money, and
the lengths we’ll go to save a few bucks, it doesn’t make
sense to not do all we can to prepare for the inevitable –
our compulsory contribution to Uncle Sam’s bank account.”
There is nothing unpatriotic about taking advantage of legal
measures to reduce your tax bill, Gorton says. Most
Americans, however, don’t understand the basics of how to
minimize the tax burden, he says.
“If you wait until the last minute to do your taxes, you’re
sure to miss out on savings,” says Gorton, who offers some
basic and more advanced tax-saving options.
• Credits: Tax credits are usually subtracted dollar for dollar
from the actual tax liability and may be utilized when
filing for 2013. They include the Child Tax Credit, which allows
up to $1,000 for children younger than 17; the American
Opportunity Credit, featuring up to $2,500 in tax savings
per eligible student for tuition costs for four years of
post-high-school education; and the Energy-Efficient Home
Improvement Tax Credit, which grants qualifying taxpayers
10 percent of the cost of certain energy-efficient building
materials — up to a $500 lifetime credit. The Child and Dependent
Care Credit, for those who have to pay someone
to care for a child younger than 13, or another dependent,
offers up to $3,000 for one qualifying individual, or up to
$6,000 for two or more qualifying individuals.
• Deductions: Like tax credits, deductions have phase-out
limits, so you may want to consult with a professional. Deductions
are subtracted from your income before your taxes
are calculated, which may reduce the amount of money
on which you are taxed and, by extension, your eventual
tax liability. Some examples include contributions made to
qualifying charitable organizations. And, you may be able
to write off out-of-pocket costs incurred while doing work
for a charity. Others may include amounts set aside for
retirement through a qualified retirement plan, such as an
Individual Retirement Account; medical expenses exceeding
10 percent of your adjusted gross income are now deductible
– expenses exceeding 7.5 percent are still deductible
for those older than age 65; and, potentially, mortgage
interest paid on a loan secured for your primary residence.
• Tax-favored investing: This involves both tax-exempt
investments and tax-deferred investments. Tax-exempt investments,
which include such vehicles as municipal bonds
and certain money market funds, offer a way to grow your
money that’s exempt from federal taxes. Municipal bonds
are free of federal income tax and may be free of state
and local income taxes for investors who live in the area
where the bond was issued. Tax-deferred investments, on
which taxes are postponed until you withdraw your money,
include qualified retirement plans, such as traditional IRAs
and employer-sponsored plans, as well as insurance products
such as annuities and, sometimes, life insurance.
www.gortonfinancialgroup.com
Jeff Gorton is a Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Financial Planner specializing in individual tax and retirement planning.
He is also an Investment Advisor Representative under Alphastar Capital Management, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor,
and has a life and health insurance license. Gorton works with individuals and their families to create and protect their financial
legacies. He specializes in working with retirees in the areas of tax planning, benefits, retirement planning, estate planning and safe
money techniques. He received his BBA in Accounting from the University of Oklahoma. Gorton previously worked for 10 years
as the Chief Financial Officer for a large retail organization, overseeing their accounting, benefits and 401(k) retirement plans.
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 41

Know the
4Percent Rule?
By Ginny Grimsley
“Who has my back in retirement?” – That’s the question
pre-retirees and retirees want answered when it’s all said
and done, says veteran financial planner David Zolt.
Baby boomers have been retiring in droves in recent years,
and will continue to do so throughout the next decade –
10,000 of them a day, the Pew Research Center estimates.
Unfortunately, the average boomer is about a $500,000
short on their savings, according to a recent survey by TD
Ameritrade.
We have already entered upon an unprecedented moment
in retirement history; never has so many people, with such
variability in financial wealth, retired at once, Zolt says.
“Clients want to know when they can retire, how much
they can withdraw from their savings and how confident
they can be that they won’t outlive their money,” says Zolt,
a senior consultant who created retirement income planning
software for financial advisors.
“If the facts of their wealth do not support their goals for
retirement, then they’ll need to do one of three things:
adjust their expectations, change their financial behavior or
know how to improve their wealth, because the last thing
any retiree wants is to run out of money while in their 80s
or 90s.”
Zolt breaks down some fundamental aspects of retirement
that may help boomers and others make better financial
decisions after their working years.
The “4 percent” rule – a good target for withdrawals:
When can you start pulling from your retirement portfolio,
and how much should you withdraw? Twenty years
ago, Bill Bengen came up with the answer: A well-allocated
portfolio subjected to an initial 4 percent withdrawal, and
adjusted for annual inflation thereafter, would survive at
least 30 years in almost all scenarios. Given today’s market,
however, once-stable rules have been significantly challenged.
Just one factor in recent years throwing off Bengen’s
rule are low bond yields, which historically averaged
5 to 6 percent, but today are much lower. “Four percent is
still a good target, but it’s not absolute!” Zolt says.
The seven variables to consider in retirement planning:
Seven variables should be included in an individual
retiree’s plan: portfolio size, portfolio return, savings, living
expenses (including taxes), years to retirement and withdrawal
rate. Each of these variables is multifaceted, and it’s
important to understand how each affects the others. To
troubleshoot this complexity, Zolt created affordable, easyto-use
retirement-planning software called The Retirement
Planner by RetireSoft, for financial advisors. “Retirement
planning is an equation; rather than assuming the 4 percent
rule, I’ve fixed other variables by making the number
of years to retirement the variable and solving for the
withdrawal rate, which is a key component to retirement
planning,” Zolt says.
A simple formula calculating withdrawal rates:
Whether you’re working with a professional or you’re a DI-
Yer, retirees and pre-retirees want to know how much they
should have in savings; how much they’ll receive from fixed
income sources, and what they’ll be spending for living
expenses. Here’s a simple formula…Subtract your annual
fixed retirement income (Social Security, pensions) from
your expected annual living expenses in retirement, including
income taxes. That’s how much you’ll need to withdraw
from savings each year. If the figure is 4 percent, and you
have a well-balanced portfolio, you can reasonably expect
to have a reliable income during retirement for 30 years. If
the total is 5 percent, you probably have enough to last 30
years, but you may have to cut back on your spending later
in retirement. If the percentage is 8 percent, you don’t
have enough money to pay for many years of retirement.
www.RetireSoft.com
David M. Zolt, CFP®, EA, ASA, MAAA worked more than 25 years in retirement and employee-benefit planning as a senior
consultant. His position as trusted advisor to the managers of some of the largest pools of liquid assets in the world gave him
the rare opportunity to watch professionals advise multi-million and multi-billion dollar pension funds utilizing the best practices
of investing. In the process, he learned firsthand how seasoned professionals invest. Zolt’s clients included The Ford Motor Co.,
American Greetings, The United Nations, The World Bank and The International Monetary Fund.
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 43

Photo courtesy of Getty Images
Family Features
With the new year behind us, there is a heavy
focus around resolutions. Whether you are making
a resolution to celebrate a fresh start or looking to
make a change no matter the time of year, maintaining
resolutions can be difficult. In fact, a recent
survey from Bank of America found that 49 percent
of respondents don’t make New Year’s resolutions
because they prefer to set goals throughout the
year.
44 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
Goals tied to the new year, and those set at various
points in the year, are all aimed at making
significant life changes. According to the survey, 81
percent of resolutions involve health and fitness,
45 percent involve personal finances and 30 percent
are targeted toward making changes in social
life and relationships. With the large number of
people planning to make changes in their finances,
it is helpful to determine how to best ensure you
achieve your goal.

“I’ll be the first to admit keeping to a financial resolution
takes a lot of hard work. It takes good behavior and good
habits,” said Farnoosh Torabi, a consumer finance expert.
“With life being so complicated, stressful and complex,
we often abandon them. Get the systems in place — the
small steps you need to take now — to help you get on
the right track.”
Research shows that consumers who understand their behaviors
and motivations are more likely to build and keep
positive habits for the long term. That’s why it’s so important
to have strategies to keep those financial resolutions
throughout the year. A few pointers to stick
with your financial resolutions include:
Prepare before your resolution begins
Putting thought into your resolutions before
you spring into action can put you on the
path to change. Starting early with a few
small changes can also improve your odds
of staying the course to achieve your goals.
For example, Bank of America’s Better Balance Rewards
card pays you to manage your credit card use. Every
quarter that you pay more than your minimum balance
on time, you earn $25 cash back. If you have at least one
other qualifying account with Bank of America, you can
receive another $5 bonus, totaling up to $30 a quarter.
You’ll be eligible for up to $120 a year toward your balance,
and you’ll feel better knowing how much you can
spend each month.
continued on pages 46 & 47...
The Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce
Visitor Information Center
For example, if you’re looking to improve
your financial health, begin by imagining a
debt-free life. Visualizing how things may
change can provide additional motivation
you may need to move forward. Think
about having more money available each
month and how it would change your stress
levels. Imagine what it would be like to
not worry about meeting your payments,
or saving more for retirement, education
or emergencies. Thirty percent of survey
respondents said they identify their New
Year’s resolutions early as a way to stick
with them throughout the year.
Develop an action plan
It’s fine to make a resolution, but the odds
of sticking with it improve dramatically if
you create an action plan of smaller steps
to support your goals. If your number one
resolution is to lose weight, your plan might
include budgeting money for a gym membership
and cleaning out any junk food
from your pantry. Creating a budget? Start
by tracking your spending to see where
the money is going. Then create a budget
that’s tight but workable, to give you
more flexibility to pay down debt, increase
savings or invest for retirement. If have to
carry a balance, but want to responsibly
manage your credit card, consider a card
that helps build positive habits.
Our Guest Book says it all...
“Thank you! Helpful - got lots to read! Very helpful and friendly smiles! So pretty!
See you next year! Very visitor friendly and lovely scenery! Help is fantastic! Danke!
Just moved into an older home so thanks for the info on services to my home!
OMG!
Merci Beaucoup! Wonderfully warm and helpful individuals! Great service! I love Naples!
Grazie! Our second visit here! Thanks for your valued advice! Excellent help from a local!
Volunteer was a wonderful help! Awesome staff! We love it here! You’re great people!
Very good advice and ideas! We want to live here! We’ll be back! Beautiful Center!
Excited to be here! One of the nicest and prettiest Visitor Centers we’ve seen on our trip!
I love Paradise! Fabulous place...wonderful people! Gracias! Wonderful information!
Thanks for helping me find things to do for my grandchildren’s visit! Gorgeous!
900 Fifth Avenue South, Suite 102
”
...to live, work and play in Greater Naples
239.262.6141
www.napleschamber.org
Open Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Stop in to see us and sign our Guest Book too!
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 45

www.GerroArt.com
(941) 639-6364
One of a kind handmade fashion
Photography by Tone Imaging
Model Wendy Williams
46 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Write it down
Forty percent of survey respondents say they use written reminders to help stay on track with their resolutions. Try
writing your resolutions on Post-it notes, in Evernote, in calendar reminders or on notes stuck to the refrigerator —
whatever you’ll look at regularly — to keep yourself committed and on track. Research shows that a written goal is
more likely to be achieved. If your goal is managing your finances better, write a reminder on your daily calendar to
check your credit card statements as they come in — it’s the best way to spot transactions you don’t recognize.
Get a little help from your friends
Sometimes a gentle reminder from a family member or friend can work wonders. Share your resolutions with a trusted
person and ask for occasional reminders. Some 23 percent of survey respondents plan to enlist help this way. A friend
may be able to coax you to going to the gym, or even talk you out of buying that handbag you’ve been eyeing that’s
out of your budget. The key to cutting debt is to stop adding to it. If you’re in a hole, stop digging.
Partner up
Find a friend or loved one with the same resolution and agree to motivate and support one another to stick to your
goals. It’s easier to manage a diet, exercise plan or budget if you have support. Twenty percent of respondents plan to
partner up to keep to their resolutions.
It's not too late to start your New Year’s resolutions thinking today, and keep the big goals in mind every day, whether
they aim for better health, sounder finances or better relationships. With the right attitude and commitment, 2014
could be a very good year.
www.bankofamerica.com
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 47

Photos courtesy of Getty Images
Looking to save money and time when it comes to your taxes?
There’s a simple way to do your federal taxes, and it’s all for
free. The program, called “Free File,” does the hard work for
you, either through brand-name software or online fillable
forms. And, it’s available only at IRS.gov.
A Simple Way to Cut Fees
Free File is offered through the Internal Revenue Service
(IRS) by 14 of the nation’s leading tax software manufacturers.
Nearly 40 million people have used this helpful program,
and using the most conservative estimate, they’ve saved $1.2
billion in fees.
It’s available 24/7, giving you the freedom to decide when
and how to do your federal taxes. Plus, the software is userfriendly,
offering a familiar Q&A format and the freedom to
complete your return at your own pace.
How to Sign Up
Here’s how you start:
• Go to www.irs.gov/freefile.
• If your income was $58,000 or less, select the “Start Free
File Now” button.
• Each of the 14 participating companies has a special offer.
• Review the company offers or use the “help me find Free File
software” tool.
Family Features
• Select your tax software that matches your situation.
• Leave IRS.gov and go to the company’s site to begin your
taxes.
If your income was more than $58,000, you can use Free File
Fillable Forms, the electronic version of IRS paper forms. Just
select the “Free File Fillable Forms” button at www.irs.gov/
freefile. This version is best if you are comfortable preparing
your own tax return with more limited help.
Remember to always use e-file to file your returns electronically.
You’ll get your refund faster when you combine e-file and
direct deposit.
Use Self-Help Options on IRS.gov
Free File is just one of many self-help options available at IRS.
gov. Wondering about your refund? Just select “Where’s My
Refund” to track the status of your refund and get a personalized
refund date.
Have a tax law question? Visit the Interactive Tax Assistant,
IRS Tax Map or Tax Trails. You also can find payment options
and request an installment payment agreement online. You
can even order a summary of a previous tax return. When you
have questions, make IRS.gov your first stop.
48 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Materials Needed to Get Started
Keep this as a checklist of the items you will need to file your
return. The IRS recommends keeping all tax-related documents
for three years, in case of an audit. Tracking incomerelated
documents can help you take full advantage of deductions
available to you.
• A copy of last year’s tax return
• Valid social security numbers for yourself, spouse and children
• All income statements, i.e. W-2 forms from all employers
• Interest/dividend statements, i.e. 1099 forms
• Form 1099-G showing any state refunds
• Unemployment compensation amount
• Social Security benefits
• Expense receipts for deductions
• Day care provider’s identifying number
Did you know?
• Most refunds are issued in less than 21 days.
• Combining e-file with direct deposit is still the fastest way to
get your refund.
• Use “Where’s My Refund?” to get personalized refund information.
• You can also use the IRS app, IRS2Go, to check the status
of your refund.
• Can’t meet the April 15 deadline? Use Free File for a free
extension; then use Free File to do your taxes by October 15.
Tax Counseling for the Elderly, which is operated by AARP
Foundation Tax-Aide, offers free help all with priority assistance
to people who are age 60 and older. Find a Tax-Aide site
at AARP.org or call 888-227-7660. Some VITA/TCE sites even
offer Free File.
Earned Income Tax Credit: How to Get It Right
No tax benefit offers a greater lifeline to working families than
the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). But putting this credit to
work can be complex. The IRS has upgraded its EITC Assistant
on IRS.gov to make it easier than ever to determine if you are
qualified and how much you may receive.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
• You must have a social security number and have earned an
income.
• The maximum credit for 2013 tax returns is $6,044 for workers
with three or more qualifying children.
• Eligibility for the EITC is determined based on a number
of factors including earnings, filing status and eligible children.
Workers without qualifying children may be eligible for a
smaller credit amount.
You can learn more at www.irs.gov/eitc and use the EITC
Assistant or ask your tax professional. If you are eligible for
EITC, you also qualify for free tax help at VITA sites nationwide
or for Free File at www.irs.gov/freefile.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
There are 13,000 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
sites nationwide that offer free help to people earning $52,000
or less. Search “VITA” on IRS.gov for a nearby site.
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 49

Your
Financial Future in 2014
Photo by Smith John
Financial resolutions can be the most difficult to keep. They
can include minute detail, number crunching, plenty of files
and discipline that can affect a person’s entire lifestyle, says
veteran investment advisor Paul Taylor, a member of the National
Ethics Bureau.
“Many folks simply are not predisposed to combing through the
details of their financial situation; for them, the financial world
is abstract and filled with arbitrary rules, constantly changing
interest rates and other complexities, but being more involved
in your own money is well worth the investment,” says Taylor,
an architect-turned-founder and owner of Capital Advisory
Group & Tax Planners of Lake Norman and Capital Investment
Advisors, Inc.
“While professional help is recommended for many aspects of
a person’s financial affairs, it’s ultimately up to the individual
to understand his or her own money.”
There are many things the average person can do to take
control of their financial life. Taylor offers the following suggestions:
• For your cash flow, keep in mind the four A’s: Accounting,
Analysis, Allocation and Adjustment. The four A’s describe
a systematic and disciplined approach to your daily, weekly,
monthly and yearly spending habits. Accounting involves gathering
all your relevant financial information – income, recurring
bills, and other expenditures – creating a central list of
each item, and pulling it together in a place where it’s easily
accessible. Analysis is reviewing the information to determine
whether you have a shortfall or surplus, and finding places
to reduce expenses. Saving $100 a month on dining out, for
instance, would allow you to apply $100 to your mortgage
loan principle, saving you a substantial amount in interest
payments. Allocation involves determining your financial commitments
and priorities, needs versus wants, and distributing
your income accordingly. Adjustment involves periodic reviews
of your financial information and shifting assets to meet
changing needs.
50 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
www.capitaladvgroup.com
By Ginny Grimsley
• Utilize estate planning tools such as wills and trusts; make
sure the details are accurate. Wills and trusts allow you to
spell out how you would like your property to be distributed,
and much more. A will gives you the opportunity to nominate
your executor and guardians for your minor children. If you
fail to make such designations through your will, the decisions
will probably be left to the courts. Bear in mind that property
distributed through your will is subject to probate, which can
be a time-consuming and costly process. Trusts, which are
more complex, let you customize the distribution of your estate
with the added advantages of property management and
probate avoidance.
• Start planning your retirement sooner rather than later.
There are a variety of retirement planning options that can
meet your needs. Your employer funds some; you fund some.
Bear in mind that, in most cases, early withdrawals before age
59½ may be subject to a 10 percent federal income tax penalty.
The latest date to begin required minimum distributions is
usually April 1 of the year after you turn age 70½. Withdrawals
from tax-deferred plans are taxed as ordinary income. The
top planning options include defined benefit pension; money
purchase pension; profit-sharing plan; savings plan; employee
stock ownership plan; tax-sheltered annuities; individual retirement
accounts; self-employed plans; simplified employee
pensions; and savings incentive match plans for employees.
• Remember the first commandment in safe investment: diversification.
Virtually every investment has some type of risk
associated with it. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Diversification
is one of the main reasons why mutual funds may be
so attractive for both experienced and novice investors. Many
non-institutional investors have a limited investment budget
and may find it challenging to construct a portfolio that is
sufficiently diversified. For a modest initial investment, you
can purchase shares in a diversified portfolio of securities. Depending
on the objectives of the fund, it may contain a variety
of stocks, bonds and cash vehicles, or a combination of them.

Fashion & Style
ATLAS ® BANGLE
Atlas® tapered bangle in sterling silver
ATLAS ® PENDANT AND RINGS
Atlas® pendant and rings with diamonds in
18 karat white gold (from left): open round
pendant, small; open ring, wide; open ring.
Tiffany & Co. presents new Atlas ® jewelry with
the striking beauty that made this celebrated
design a fashion icon. The latest options trace
the collection’s signature Roman numerals in
designs symbolic of strength and freedom. These
creations distill style to its very essence; each is
bold enough to stand on its own, yet graceful and
uncomplicated enough to stack and layer, so that
every wearer can tell their own unique story.
The versatility of Atlas ® is achieved with graphic
elements of utmost integrity that allows them
to be shaped into a crisp pattern as distinctive
as its inspiration: the Atlas clock that presides
over Tiffany’s Fifth Avenue store, located at the
crossroads of energy and evolution in the heart of
New York City. This elegant pattern shines in new
bangles, medallion pendants and band rings, as
well as wide cuffs in a weave of numerals. Crafted
in 18 karat yellow, white or rose gold, as well as
sterling silver, the jewelry generates a sensuous
play of light that casts a luster over dressing day
and night.
ATLAS ® BANGLES
Atlas® flat low bangles (from left): 18 karat rose gold, 18 karat gold, sterling silver.
Every variation on the theme reflects a tradition
of excellence that over the past 177 years has
made Tiffany & Co. an international house of
design. Here, the highest standards of quality and
craftsmanship are matched by brilliant jewelry
that captures the imagination and epitomizes contemporary
life. The newest Atlas jewelry collection
brilliantly articulates this enduring legacy.
www.tiffany.com
52 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
ATLAS ® CUFFS
Atlas® Weave cuffs in 18 karat gold and sterling silver

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 53

SJP Collection
Launching exclusively at Nordstrom stores and Nordstrom.com on
February 28, 2014, the SJP Collection by Sarah Jessica Parker is a
new collection of shoes crafted by artisans in Italy and imported
handbags, reflecting Sarah Jessica’s personal looks and feminine
style. The line will also feature the “Manhattan” trench coat to
complement the collection as a whole.
54 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

“I’ve taken inspiration from things in my life such
as the grosgrain ribbons I tied in my hair as a girl,
to the flower accents from the Sex and the City
wardrobe, to references to classic styles from the
late 70's and early 80's. I’m a firm believer in quality
and timelessness and have created this collection
with the hopes that women will love wearing it
for years to come,” said Sarah Jessica Parker, President
SJP USA LLC. As a reflection of Sarah Jessica’s
childhood, grosgrain ribbon detail is intricately
featured on each shoe, emphasizing the feminine
design of the collection. With a story behind the
name of each shoe, the collection is infused with
fashion influences of Sarah Jessica’s life – from
“Carrie”, understandably so, after her acclaimed
character on Sex and the City to “Maud”, named
after legendary designer Maud Frizon. Colors, as
Sarah Jessica has often said are “the new neutral”
and can be seen in the collection ranging from her
spring favorites such as coral, mint, teal and pink,
to classic colors including purple, red and navy.
With a wide variety of heel heights, the collection
of twenty-five shoes reinvigorates the classic single
sole with a range of silhouettes that fit the styles
and personalities of women of all ages. The shoe
prices range from $195 to just under $500. The entire
shoe collection is made in Italy from high quality
leathers and materials. The SJP handbags are
functional pieces but with a fun and fashionable
twist. They can be carried by the everyday woman
on the go and transition easily to night out.
The line features versatile styles from the “New
Yorker” hobo shoulder bag, the “Waverly” cross
body and the “Beekman” clutch, all named after
some of her favorite NYC spots. They will retail
from $245 to $375. The SJP “Manhattan” trench
coat was created to highlight the shoe and handbag
collection with its A-Line fitted silhouette and
skirting design that is sure to accentuate a woman’s
figure. Maintaining the integrity of the collection,
the trench coat incorporates the signature
blush color grosgrain detail, exclusive SJP buttons,
and a signature print lining. The SJP trench comes
both in natural and navy and retails for $495.
The SJP Collection is a personal endeavor for Sarah
Jessica as a realization of her enduring affection
for fashion as she teams up with business partner
George Malkemus to launch her namesake collection
exclusively at Nordstrom stores. Nordstrom,
which began as a shoe retailer, is a fitting partnership
for Sarah Jessica’s new collection as the retail
store is a staple among fashion driven consumers
with the retailer’s vast knowledge of the industry
and what the customer wants.
“We’re honored that Sarah Jessica chose to work
with Nordstrom to launch the SJP Collection. It has
been a true collaboration and a pleasure working
together. Sarah Jessica’s aesthetic and style is so
inspiring to so many women, and this collection
reflects her unique point of view. We can’t wait
for customers to see the line. There’s something
for every shoe lover and we think they’re going to
respond really well,” said Scott Meden, Nordstrom
EVP and GMM of Shoes.
“I thought about launching my own line for a long
time,” Sarah Jessica says. “It just feels like an enormous
privilege to be doing it now with George and
with Nordstrom.”
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 55

Fashion & Style
Ivanka
Trump
8
A Collection inspired
by passion & a sense
of tradition.
4
2
3
5
1
7
56 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
6
1. Aberdeen Bracelet with Diamonds in 18tk White Gold 2. Metropolis Bracelet with Diamonds
in 18kt Yellow Gold 3. Patras Necklace with Aquamarine and Diamonds in 18kt White Gold 4.
Patras Earrings with Diamonds in 18kt White Gold 5. Metropolis Cuff with Diamonds in 18kt
Yellow Gold 6. Patras Ring with Aquamarine and Diamonds in 18kt White Gold 7. Patras
Ring with Blue Sapphire and Diamonds in 18kt White Gold 8. Patras Earrings with Aquamarine
and Diamonds in 18kt White Gold
www.ivankatrump.com

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 57

Style & Beauty
Whether you’re planning beach bag roundups or
tackling summer beauty concerns head on, here’s the
latest lineup of seaweed-based skincare products from
Repêchage. Will give you the bikini confidence and
keep your skin and hair glowing all season!
PROBLEM: Uneven Skin Tone & Dark Spots
o SOLUTION: Reduce the appearance of age spots, hyper pigmentation,
discoloration and freckles using Biolight Brightening Body Corrector ($75,
Repechage.com). This power-packed body cream helps brighten uneven
skin tone and fade the appearance of dark spots on both the hands
and body. Infused with EcoCert Seaweeds combined with Willow Bark,
Goto Kola, Licorice and Watermelon Extracts, the product enhances cell
renewal and reduces inflammation, revealing luminous skin.
PROBLEM: Flabby Skin
o SOLUTION: Get a smoother body this summer using Vita Cure Triple
Action Slimming Body Cream ($52, Repechage.com). This patented
3-way-system is a synergistic blend of Bupleurum, Caffeine and Coenzyme
A, that works to tighten thighs and smooth skins appearance.
Clinical studies demonstrated that flabbiness of skin decreased by
27.5% after 2 months of twice daily application.
PROBLEM: Sun Damaged & Chorine Hair
o SOLUTION: After a week of sun and chlorine chemicals, give your hair a break
with a restorative hair conditioning treatment like Repêchage Hair Spa Seaweed
Mask ($55, Repêchage.com). Packed with amino acids, vitamins & minerals, the mask
will help to repair stressed-out tresses, strengthen damaged and chemically treated
hair while protecting it from further damage. Its Avocado Oil will moisturize, nourish
and strengthen damaged hair, while Aloe Leaf Extract helps to stimulate circulation
to the scalp, promoting new hair growth - Leaving your hair smooth, hydrated and
full of new life!
PROBLEM: Cracked Heel and Dry Hands
o SOLUTION: Insulate dry skin after a long day at the beach with Repêchage
Sea Spa Hand Cream and Foot Cream ($19.50/$24, www.Repêchage.
com). Packed with soothing ingredients like Shea Butter, Laminaria Dignitata
Seaweed, Lavender, Chamomile and Eucalyptus these products work to sooth,
nourish and protect skin from premature aging. Not to mention, they’re both
ideal for travel and perfect for your beach bag!
58 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Age Game
Beauty & Care
In Your 30s:
Peptides: Peptides are molecular links of amino
acids that help your skin produce collagen
– the wonder protein that prevents wrinkles,
and keeps skin looking young.
G.M. Collin Bota-Peptide 5 Concentrate is a light textured fluid with
a natural bouquet of bergamot, black currant, green apple, jasmine,
musk, and cedar wood. The formula embraces the unprecedented
combination of 5 peptides, each of which has been individually clinically
proven: Argireline ® , Lipo-Arginyl Tyrosine, Soja Oligopeptides,
Palmitoyl Oligopeptides and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-3. These 5
peptides have been particularly selected for their targeted anti-aging
action; they relax skin-related muscles, act on the skin neurosensorial
mechanisms, increase skin density, stimulate skin functions and smooth
the skin’s surface. (www.GMCollin.com)
Choosing an anti-aging product is no easy
feat. With hundreds of creams/serums/oils to
choose from, how does one know which is the
most effective? The key is in the ingredients,
and personalizing your skincare based on your
age. Experts advise scanning the packaging
before buying, searching for an ingredient that
complements your skins current condition.
In Your 40s:
Renovage ® : Renovage is an essential ingredient
that prolongs the cell and tissue life span also
improves cellular metabolism which results in a
DNA repair effect.
Phyto Stem Cell + Eye Contour Cream is a part of the Phyto Stem Cell
+ line that optimizes the cellular metabolism of the skin. The advanced
anti-aging eye contour cream moisturizes, soothes, and visibly improves
the firmness of the skin and the appearance of dark circles, puffiness,
wrinkles, and fine lines.
In Your 50s:
Mitoquinol: At this stage, skin has already been
through hardships and anti-aging, so it needs a strong
ingredient! The mitoquinol molecule
is the newest patented antioxidant to
hit the U.S. market through the breakthrough
anti-aging face cream, MitoQ.
It’s the most potent antioxidant on
the market to date and proven to be
1,000x stronger than CoQ10.
MitoQ: The mitoquinol molecule is the newest
patented antioxidant to hit the U.S. market
through the breakthrough anti-aging face
cream, MitoQ. MitoQ is considered to be the
most potent antioxidant on the market to date
and proven to be 1,000x stronger than CoQ10.
Developed over 10 years of rigorous research
and development, it is the only topical cream
proven to deliver antioxidants to mitochondria
at levels shown to have an immense effect in
rejuvenating the cells, encouraging the natural
production of collagen and elastin and leaving
skin looking radiant with a lit-from-within glow.
(www.MitoQ.com)
G.M. Collin skincare, Daily Ceramide Comfort Capsules a Daily Ceramide
Comfort system is a replenishing and nourishing skin care supplement in
practical single dose capsules that protects the skin against environmental
elements and reduces the skin stress and irritation while improving hydration.
At spas nationwide and select online retailers. (www.GMCollin.com)
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 61

Are You Doing it
Right...
By Allison Stephens
Our daily shower seems pretty straight forward, right? But odds are, at least one step in your well-meaning
routine unintentionally leaves your skin or hair worse for wear. For anyone who’s ever gotten that dry, tight
feeling, an itchy scalp, irritation or redness after a shower, these five common shower mistakes are likely culprits
that unintentionally strip skin of oils and throw the skin’s pH balance out of whack. Fortunately, the fixes
are simple! Spending five minutes to optimize your cleaning routine makes can leave your body balanced
and refreshed:
• Mistake #1: Overdosing on Shampoo. Ninety-three percent of
the country’s adults shampoo almost daily, according to market
research firm Mintel. But so much washing strips hair’s natural oils,
drying and weakening the strands and irritating the scalp. Dermatologists
lathering up just 3 to 4 times per week (or less!) with just
a dime sized dollop of soap free shampoo, and only rinsing hair on
other days. If you can’t resist washing daily, make sure to choose
a pH balanced formula like Sebamed Scalp Activating Shampoo
($14.99 at SebamedUSA.com), as balanced formulations which
won’t strip hair of oils.
• Mistake #2: Washing with Soap and Hot Water. They may seem
innocent, but traditional soap bars can have a pH of up to 9, leaving
skin dry, tight and vulnerable to damage. Ditch the soap and
switch to a soap-free cleansing bar or soap-free milky cleanser for
both the face and body, like Sebamed Liquid Face and Body Wash
($19.95 at SebamedUSA.com).
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• Mistake #3: A Sudsy Shave. Shaving with foam and water
alone may protect from cuts, but foam isn’t protective enough
to defend against razor burn and redness, especially if you’re
using hot water. If skin is dry, try using your hair conditioner
as an alternative shaving aid. It hydrates and sinks deep within
skin to prevent nicks, cuts and razor burn, but it’s smooth
consistency won’t clog your razor, as long as you rinse.
• Mistake #4: Using Your Regular Body Wash on Intimate
Areas. The intimate area’s ideal pH is actually different than
the rest of our skin (3.8 as opposed to 5.5) and regular soaps
and showers, certain clothing, diet and even sex all affect
that balance. Stock your shower with a product like Sebamed
Feminine Intimate Wash ($14.95 at www.SebamedUSA.com)
that’s specifically formulated at pH 3.8 to balance the delicate
pH down there, making it easy to stay fresh, healthy and
happy by protecting against imbalances that trigger infections
and odors.
• Mistake #5: Not Moisturizing Immediately After Your Shower.
After a hot shower, you have three minutes before your body
loses essential moisture. To prevent dry, crackly, irritated skin,
store a body lotion in your shower and apply all over while
skin is still damp.
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 63

Next Battle
Against Aging
Photo by Andrew Taylor
By Ginny Grimsley
Most people today know antioxidants to be an effective method of
fighting age, but few are aware of the biological process underlying
for most skin damage – and what directly addresses the
problem, says skin-care expert Ron Cummings.
“The word that has been on the minds of dermatologists and
other skin-care researchers for many years is glycation, which is
what happens on the cellular level to age our skin,” says Cummings,
founder and CEO of AminoGenesis Skin Care.
Glycation – damage to proteins caused by sugar molecules – has
long been a focus of study in people with diabetes, because it
results in severe complications, such as blindness and nerve damage.
People with uncontrolled diabetes have excess blood sugar,
so they experience a higher rate of systemic glycation, he says.
“Antioxidants fight inflammation caused by free radicals, which
are largely created from external, environmental factors such as
excessive sunlight or cigarette smoke. Glycation, though, damages
from the inside out.”
Using antioxidants and topical moisturizers are a good start to
keeping the effects of aging at bay, but they only go so far, Cummings
says. Even more important is reversing the damage to skin
caused by glycation, which became possible only recently.
Cummings shares two points anyone interested in skin care
should know about glycation:
• Glycation is the skin’s No.1 aging factor. Sugar molecules
in our body bombard our cells like a ferocious hail storm, bonding
with fats and proteins. The proteins then become misshapen
and excrete exotoxins that disrupt cellular metabolism. Collagen,
which makes skin look smooth and plump, is a protein that’s
particularly vulnerable to glycation. The damage manifests as
wrinkles, lines, discoloration and edema. Rather than attacking
a cell from the outside, like a free radical, glycation occurs from
within.
• Anti-glycation topical solutions have been clinically
shown to be effective. Old lotions, from your favorite moisturizer
to Grandma’s secret facial solution to the new DIY recipe you
found online act as a barrier to moisture evaporation. But their
effect is temporary, and they don’t prevent or reverse damage.
New anti-glycation formulas, however, directly address aging by
releasing the sugar molecule’s bond with protein, allowing the cell
to return to its natural shape and state.
“Just as antioxidants have revolutionized anti-aging efforts around
the world, anti-glycation will be understood to be exponentially
more effective,” Cummings says.
Ron Cummings is the founder and CEO of AminoGenesis Skin Care, which utilizes amino acids as the key ingredients to its
age- and damage-reversing products. The formula for the solution features 17 plant-purified amino acids, which are necessary
for healthy and radiant skin. The company’s formulas include anti-glycation properties, which are very rare in today’s skin-care
products. Cummings donated one of his products, a protective agent, to support military forces in Afghanistan and received a
hearty letter of gratitude from the Marines of Special Operations Company Bravo, which described the product’s excellent performance,
as well as a flag that was flown “in the face of the enemy, over Forward Operating Base Robinson in Sangin, Afghanistan.”
www.aminogenesis.com
64 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Reception
to Remember
Family Features
Whether it’s set in the great outdoors, a lavish ballroom, the
couple’s favorite restaurant or at home, the wedding reception
is a special time for newlyweds to celebrate with family and
friends.
The signature dessert – cake – is usually the centerpiece for
this occasion, a continuing reflection of the wedding theme
and colors. An assortment of cupcakes or a tower of layers
allows today’s cakes to take almost any form – from square
to round, even pillow or heart-shaped. This stunning all-white
creation from the wedding experts at Wilton is both simple
yet elegant. Cake layers are covered in pure white fondant,
while additional bands of fondant glistening with white sparkling
sugar decorate the bottom of each tier. Dots of sugar
pearl sprinkles, resembling perfect pearls add a hint of texture,
while a gem-studded monogram topper adds the finishing
touch.
68 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
www.wilton.com
This unique do-it-yourself wedding topper kit can easily be
customized…with one initial, two or a trio. Self-adhesive crystal-like
gems are used to trace the initials onto the clear disc.
Gems can also be used to create a border or other complementary
design. After the reception, it makes a perfect keepsake
for the couple that will be treasured for years to come.
Guests will want to raise a glass in honor of the newlyweds
with the timeless custom of a champagne toast. Decorated
flutes for the bride and groom create a long-lasting memory
of this special tradition.
Individual boxes are ideal for truffles or other candies to send
home with guests. Tie with ribbons reflecting the color theme
of the wedding. Another fun memento is a mini champagne
bottle favor that can be filled with small candies. Attach a label
with a personalized message. Make it elegant or simple…and
always make it meaningful and memorable.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 69

Wedding
Family Features
Registry 101
• Start Early: Most couples like to register 4-6 months before
their wedding date, which allows more time for choosing
items, planning for showers and meeting other deadlines.
• Register Together: Whether it’s in-store, online or both –
make a day of it and have fun selecting all the things that
will be part of your new life together.
• Choose Different Price Points: Guests will appreciate a varied
list that has many gift options to fit their personal budget.
• Create a Registry That Reflects You: If you’re a laid-back,
easygoing couple, consider registering for a more casual
dinnerware pattern that you can use every day, then mix in
some fancy pieces to use for those special occasions. If you
enjoy entertaining friends and family, be sure to choose a
range of serveware and barware.
Making the Right Choices
With all the things needed to properly stock your home,
selecting the right ones can seem overwhelming. Here are
some tips to keep in mind while adding to your registry:
• Select Your Settings: A five-piece setting is meant to serve
one person and includes a dinner plate, salad plate, bread
and butter plate, tea cup and saucer. If you want to serve
eight guests, you will need to register for eight five-piece settings.
For engaged couples, it can seem as if there are a million
things to accomplish before the big day arrives. One essential
piece of the wedding puzzle involves creating a registry that
makes it easy for guests to celebrate your union with gifts
that reflect your personality as a couple.
Before Building Your Registry
It’s no wonder why guests love the ease and simplicity of a
gift registry. But many couples may not know where to begin
when setting out to create this useful list. Here are some
helpful pointers from Macy’s to help you get started on creating
a perfect wedding registry:
• Meet with a Consultant: These trained professionals are on
site to assist and discuss everything you want and need. It’s
a good place to start if you have questions on what items to
include and what brands are available.
• Look for Special Programs: Some stores offer special features,
such as Macy’s, whose Dream Fund allows guests to
contribute any amount to the ultimate gift card, so the bride
and groom can later choose exactly what they want.
• Factor in Some Extras: When registering for drinkware, be
sure to register for a few extras in each glass size in case
some break down the road.
• Protect Your Cutlery: Be sure to choose a sturdy cutting
board to protect your knife blades from chips and cracks. You
can keep your cutlery in top condition by registering for a
honing steel and knife sharpener.
• Stock Up on Kitchen Must-Haves: When it comes to cookware,
make sure to stock up on the essentials. This should
include a fry pan, sauté pan, grill pan, sauteuse (round,
deep-sided design for sautéing on the stovetop or baking in
the oven) and a chef’s pan.
• Opt for the Basics: White dinnerware allows you to transform
the look of your table year-round by changing the décor
and accessories around it. The classic look will be a design
that you can appreciate for years to come.
Visit www.macys.com/registry for a full registry checklist,
helpful tips and more information on Macy’s Dream Fund.
70 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Designer
Profile
Zac Posen
A globally recognized designer of women’s fashion,
synonymous with the modern American glamour lifestyle.
House of Z, currently produces a range of products
through his Zac Posen, ZAC Zac Posen and Z Spoke Zac
Posen labels including women’s ready-to-wear, furs, handbags,
accessories and eyewear.
David’s Bridal, the nation’s leading bridal and special
occasion authority, announces the launch of the highly
anticipated Spring 2014 collection from premier American
designer, Zac Posen. ‘Truly Zac Posen’ is available exclusively
in select David’s Bridal stores worldwide and online
at DavidsBridal.com on February 6, 2014. This romantic
collection of bridal and social occasion styles is rooted in
Zac Posen’s signature design sensibility and red-carpet
heritage.
Says Zac Posen, “I am so honored to partner with David’s
Bridal on the ‘Truly Zac Posen’ line as we have jointly created
love notes to brides everywhere. Each design in this
collection depicts a romantic femininity with silhouettes
that embrace and enhance every woman’s body while
celebrating life’s exceptional moments.”
‘Truly Zac Posen’ reflects signature elements of Posen’s
globally renowned collections, integrating the artisanal
craftsmanship, anatomical silhouettes and design innovation
for which he has come to be known. The ‘Truly Zac
Posen’ line offers a selection of exceptional bridal gowns
and social occasion dresses.
The bridal gown collection, with seven styles to choose
from, showcases bold silhouettes and whimsical colors –
from a satin fit-and-flare gown with corset detailing and
embellishments to a champagne-colored tulle dress with a
featherweight lace overlay. The ten social occasion dresses
in the collection are steeped in signature red-carpet
glamour. Strapless cocktail dresses are available in lavish
shades including portobello, lavender haze and midnight
blue. Other styles in the social occasion line feature tulle
skirts complementing corset-detailed taffeta dresses and
evening gowns telegraphed with both ethereal simplicity
and structured volumes.
“Since we announced our new designer partnership with
the extremely talented Zac Posen, our consumers have
been anxiously awaiting the in-store date of his standout
designs,” said David’s Bridal EVP and Chief Marketing Officer,
Brian Beitler. “His new collection speaks to the beauty,
grace and glamour that each woman deserves on her
big day and we’re thrilled that our customers can have a
‘Truly Zac Posen’ piece hanging in their own closets.”
As the latest designer collection in the David’s Bridal
collaboration portfolio, ‘Truly Zac Posen’ will continue to
deliver seasonal styles throughout the year at an accessible
price-point. Bridal gowns are priced from $850 to
$1,350. For the social occasion collection, cocktail dresses
start at $195 and floor-length evening gowns retail for
$225. Jewelry and accessories will also be included in the
collection.
72 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
www.davidsbridal.com

Banking
on Your
Terms
Family Features
Photos courtesy of Getty Images
When it comes to managing their money, people often use
the same banking provider for a number of years. Whether
you’re loyal to your current bank or are looking for a better
option, it’s important to review the available benefits to
ensure your financial needs are fully met.
In an industry driven by technology, banks now serve up a
platter of benefits to their account holders. From accounts
that reimburse ATM fees to mobile apps, which allow upto-date
monitoring of funds, today’s banking is better than
ever before. By making smart choices and using new technologies
and resources, account holders are able to minimize
their banking costs and have a clearer understanding
of their finances.
holders at various banks, 83 percent stated that they are
satisfied with their day-to-day experience. But the survey
also revealed that 36 percent are extremely or very likely
to switch banks to avoid fees. Armed with the proper information,
account holders who share these feelings will be
pleased to know of the various fee-free options available
to them.
Here are some of the other benefits today’s banking customer
can receive:
Checking
All checking accounts are not created equal. Taking the
time to find an account that aligns with individual needs
“Consumers should investigate what
options are available to them,” said
Ryan Bailey, executive vice president
of deposit and payments, TD Bank.
“For example, certain checking accounts
waive non-bank ATM fees
and some, such as our Convenience
Checking account, offer a low minimum
balance. By doing a little bit of
homework, consumers can choose a
product and an institution that matches
up with their banking needs.”
Banking benefits
Getting the most from your bank involves
a general knowledge of the
products and services that are out
there, which may exceed the offerings
of your current provider. In fact, according
to the TD Bank Checking Experience
Index, a nationwide survey
of more than 3,000 checking account
74 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

improves the banking experience while minimizing costs.
Some bank benefits include instantly issued free debit
cards upon opening an account. For those looking for added
convenience, free direct deposit may be just the ticket
to make payday a breeze.
And, while technology may be top of mind to many, banks
are finding that good old-fashioned customer service is an
equally essential part of today’s banking experience. Account
holders seek branches that offer more hours in the
evenings, on weekends and on holidays when banks are
traditionally closed. The ability to speak with a live customer
service representative 24/7 is also a highly valued asset.
Online Banking
The convenience of smartphone and tablet technology has
made banking at your fingertips a daily ritual for many
account holders. This ability to review the status of funds
at any time, day or night, has proven to be essential for
today’s device-driven world. Forgetful account holders
rejoice — online bill pay is another helpful program offered
by many banks. This organizational tool allows you
to manage and pay all your monthly bills so they’re always
received on time. As an added bonus, this form of paperfree
banking is the environmentally-friendly way to manage
your money.
ATMs
Checking account holders who tend to use ATMs outside
of their bank’s network should look to financial institutions
with more convenient locations and specific accounts that
reimburse these costs. For example, the Premier Checking
account from TD Bank waives fees at non-affiliated ATMs
when the account holder keeps a low minimum daily balance.
For more information, visit www.tdbank.com.
Protect Against Theft
It seems like every day the media reports another story
about identity theft, security breaches and other situations
of fraudulent behavior. While it may seem that thieves are
always devising new ways to steal, there are ways to protect
your funds and your family. Here are three helpful tips
to keep your money safe and secure:
• Be Aware of Your Balance: While it may not be possible
to write down every transaction that occurs throughout
your busy day, having a good idea of your balance is essential.
An awareness of this figure will keep you alert of
any strange activity should you become a target.
• Monitor Your Account Daily: The tools of online and mobile
banking apps can make checking funds simple. If you
don’t have online access, see if your bank offers a toll-free
phone line to access your account information.
• Cover the Keypad: When using an ATM to check your balance
or receive cash, always cover the keypad while entering
your PIN number. Thieves are now using cameras and
other tactics to steal this confidential information as you
are pressing down on those buttons. Keeping it covered
reduces the chance of having your account compromised.
www.tdbank.com
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 75

Will Social Security
2015?
Be in the Mail
For many baby boomers, it’s comforting to believe
that part of the 12.4 percent Social Security payroll
tax they (or they and their employer) have been
paying is going into a $2.7 trillion Social Security
Trust Fund designed specifically to ensure the tidal
wave of boomers now retiring will be assured their
benefits.
For those already on Social Security, the taxes they
pay on a portion of their benefits has also been
earmarked for the fund since 1983.
Economist and former professor Allen W. Smith,
however, says there is no trust fund – and a number
of elected officials, including former President
George W. Bush, have acknowledged that.
“To make a long story very short, we are supposed
to have $2.7 trillion in Social Security surplus, all
earmarked for the baby boomers’ retirement, due
to money generated by amendments approved in
1983,” says Smith, who has researched the topic
for 15 years and is author of several books, including
“The Looting of Social Security” and “Ronald
Reagan and the Great Social Security Heist,”.
“But there’s no money in the fund.”
Where did it go? Four administrations, from Reagan
to George W. Bush, spent it on myriad non-Social
Security efforts.
“Obama didn’t have a chance to use it – it was
gone,” Smith says.
The 1983 amendments approved under Reagan
generated revenue by accelerating Social Security
payroll tax increases, allowing a portion of benefits
to be taxed, and delaying cost-of-living adjustments
from June to December.
According to the Social Security Administration
website: “The surpluses are invested in (and the
trust fund holds) special-issue Treasury bonds.”
But what’s actually sitting in the Trust Fund is nonmarketable
government IOUs – worthless, Smith
says.
By Ginny Grimsley
The fact has been publicly acknowledged by a
2009 Social Security trustees report; Sen. Tom Coburn;
and President George W. Bush, who in 2005
said, “There is no trust fund, just IOUs that I saw
firsthand … future generations will pay – pay for
either in higher taxes or reduced benefits or cuts to
other critical government programs.”
Recently, Speaker of the House John Boehner offered
a sobering statement on ABC’s “This Week,”
on Oct. 6, 2013: “…Ten thousand baby boomers
like me (are) retiring every single day – 70,000 this
week; 3.5 million this year. And, it’s not like there’s
money in Social Security or Medicare. The government,
over the last 30 years, have spent it all.”
Smith examines what needs to happen starting
today.
• Get the secret out. The total cost of paying
full benefits in 2010 exceeded Social Security
tax revenue by $49 billion, and the gap between
revenue and costs will become larger in the coming
years. “On Sept. 27, 2000, I appeared on CNN
Today to discuss my book, ‘The Alleged Budget
Surplus, Social Security, and Voodoo Economics;’
the host did not take me seriously and asked me
if I was ‘a voice crying in the wilderness,’ ” Smith
says. “I’d quickly realized that he was right, with
the exception of multiple statements by politicians
and officials.”
• Get the AARP, NCPSSM and the media involved.
The only way the government was able
to pay full benefits in 2010 was to borrow billions
from China, among other creditors. The public is
repeatedly being told by government officials and
leaders from the AARP and the National Committee
to Preserve Social Security and Medicare that the
trust fund has enough money pay full benefits until
2033. “I have tried engaging the leaders of these
organizations with my research, but my attempts
have been unsuccessful,” Smith says.
• Get the baby boomers engaged in protesting
once again. Boomers are no strangers to
taking to the streets to express their outrage. However,
“I’m beginning to think that it’s going to take
missed checks before the public gets raises their
voices. Unfortunately, you just don’t know what you
have until it’s gone.”
www.thebiglie.net
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 77

Visions of
Design
Two legendary brands with legendary visions united once
again at the Miami International Boat Show. Cigarette Racing
and the Mercedes-Benz high-performance brand AMG join
forces for the fourth consecutive year to present futuristic visions,
the Mercedes-Benz AMG Vision Gran Turismo Concept
car and the Cigarette Racing 50' Vision GT Concept.
Extreme proportions, sensual contours and intelligently
implemented high technology blend to form a body that visually
brings to life the breathtaking performance of the AMG
V8 front-mid engine with 577 hp (430 kW) and 590 lb-ft of
torque. Realized as a 1:1-scale model, the Mercedes-Benz
AMG Vision Gran Turismo celebrated its world premiere on
November 19, 2013 at the opening of the new Mercedes-
Benz Research & Development Center in Sunnyvale, California.
The super sports car with its hallmark Mercedes gullwing
doors made its auto show debut in Los Angeles on November
20, 2013 and then took to the virtual racetrack when the new
racing game went on sale in December 2013 – as the first of
the "Vision Gran Turismo" series of vehicles.
by Mai Yomioto
The sports car proportions that are a typical Mercedes feature
are reinterpreted in the Vision Gran Turismo: the long
hood has a flowing transition into a compact greenhouse
offset to the rear, which takes the form of an aerodynamically
efficient water drop to descend slightly at the rear, where
it rests on the rear end with broad shoulder contours. The
dynamic aura is accentuated by an extended, dramatic side
contour and a pronounced bulge to the wheel arches, which
blend into the low-slung, muscular bodyshell. The extraordinary
headlights, with their color scheme and determined
look, convey a sense of sportiness and readiness to leap
forward. This impression is reinforced by the hood with its
expressive forms and motorsport details, such as the release
catches on the hood and the fuel cap, for example. The
red-glowing contour lines on the lower part of the vehicle
create an effect similar to that of exterior ambient lighting
and stand out from the silver-painted bodywork. This makes
the Mercedes-Benz AMG Vision Gran Turismo look even more
expressive.
The exterior design of the Vision Gran Turismo, which is
systematically and passionately geared to motor racing, is
congenially mirrored in the interior of the two-seater. Inspired
by the Formula 1 cockpit, the red integral sports seats
blend into the black flooring of the footwell to form a protective
shell. The form of this flowing, sculptured shell suggests
enormous forward thrust. The dashboard also creates an
equally dynamic effect. It has been designed in the form of
two gullwing doors which are positioned on each side of the
steering column. As a result the actual doors themselves appear
to be an extension of the instrument panel. The technical
details engineered with utmost precision, such as the
headlamps, the front grille and even the tailpipe trim, create
a deliberate contrast to the sensual design idiom of the
vehicle body and bolster its breathtaking appearance on the
road. While this concept car is a vision that is not committed
to production, it does preview design inspirations for the
future of Mercedes-Benz.
78 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Virtually simultaneous to the development of the Vision Gran
Turismo was the special development of the Cigarette Racing
50' Vision GT Concept, a one-of-a-kind special model which
is the most powerful production twin engine performance
boat ever developed and built by Cigarette Racing. Collaboration
between Cigarette Racing Team, Mercedes-AMG and
Polyphony Digital Inc. created one-of-a-kind elements for the
Cigarette Racing 50' Vision GT Concept, incorporating a stunning
Alubeam painted exterior that includes a custom matte
black hull and accents.
Marauder. Lightweight construction has allowed for approximately
1000 lbs to be removed from the standard spec
weight, thereby allowing the boat to have an estimated top
speed of more than 140 mph at a length of 50' and a width
of 8'.
No detail was left untouched when designing the interior of
the Cigarette Racing 50' Vision GT Concept. The crafted interior
is black with black alcantara accents, and uses carbon
fiber dash panels inside the boat with silver face gauges.
User interface technology is also maximized with Bluetooth,
computerized controls, four high-definition displays, and the
next generation integration of Garmin and Cigarette navigation
and audio.
The price of this one-of-a-kind boat from Cigarette Racing
Team is USD $1.5 million.
Photos courtesy of Daimler AG
The Cigarette Racing 50' Vision GT Concept has twin 1650
hp Mercury Racing engines, which roar at 300 hp per engine
higher than the standard engines used in the 50' Cigarette

Signature
Visual
by Scott Black
The latest in industry-leading technology was unveiled from
Rolls-Royce with the introduction of the new Ghost Series
II. A subtle re-design to a timeless yet cool modern luxury
sedan, that entrepreneurs and successful business men and
women demand. Ghost Series II is the ultimate contemporary
combination of luxury, technology and connectivity
available to the successful entrepreneurs on the move today.
It is an oasis of calm in a busy connected world where
he or she can do business in peace.
treatments to the front of the car. A tapered ‘wake channel’
on the bonnet, emanating from the Spirit of Ecstasy,
evokes the sight of a jet’s vapour trail or wake of a fast
luxury yacht and hints at the car’s dynamism. Subtle resculpting
of Ghost’s bumpers creates a stronger stance and
a sense of extra width and height, whilst the contemporary
aesthetic is further enhanced with the addition of chrome
On unveiling Ghost Series II, Chief Executive Officer of
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, Torsten Müller-Ötvös said, “The
Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II is the ultimate entrepreneur’s
business tool. Following the worldwide success of its predecessor,
I am confident that this re-designed and updated
Rolls-Royce will continue to attract increasing numbers of
new customers to the marque, in particular business entrepreneurs
seeking an oasis of calm in a frenetic business
world.”
Protecting the popularity of Ghost’s iconic design whilst
delivering the latest Rolls-Royce technology to its exacting
customers, the subtle re-design of Ghost Series II begins
from the front. Re-sculpted LED headlights encircled by
daytime running lights lend Ghost Series II a more dynamic
visual signature and blend perfectly with revised surface
82 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

inserts to the front air intakes, which now feed more air
cooling to the front brakes. In addition, the famous waft
line has been re-designed on Ghost Series II to lean further
forwards emphasising the car’s effortless dynamism.
“As a design statement, Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II continues
to transcend time,” comments Giles Taylor, Director of
Design for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. “This is ensured by the
Its suite of technologies ensures that both business and
leisure time in the car are a super-luxurious effortless
experience. On-board Wi-Fi makes Ghost Series II the most
connected, luxurious place in which to conduct business
on the move, whilst Satellite Aided Transmission (SAT),
debuted in Wraith last year, enhances the car’s dynamism
– ensuring the car automatically adapts to its surroundings
augmenting the drive experience. Updates to navigation
systems and the car/user interface ensures accessing
Ghost’s features remains an effortless experience, whilst
optional Bespoke Audio – the most exhaustively engineered
and finest audio system in automotive history – brings new
levels of aural satisfaction to passengers.
deft treatment of features such as the new headlights, the
new wake channel on the bonnet and surfacing that lend
the car a more dynamic, purposeful stance and hint at the
cutting edge technology inside. I am very pleased with the
overall sense of design harmony.”
Inside, Ghost Series II delivers on its outward appearance.
The ultimate contemporary combination of luxury, technology
and connectivity available to the successful entrepreneur
on the move today, Ghost Series II’s onboard technology
ensures it is an oasis of calm in a busy, connected world
where he or she can do business in peace.
In short, Ghost remains the ultimate choice for successful
entrepreneurs around the world and the calmest place from
which to run their successful enterprises on the move.
www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 83

Striking
Appearance
Stylistically self-assured presence, exclusive appointments and
refined sportiness – welcome the new S-Class Coupe from Mercedes-Benz.
A breathtaking large, sporty coupe with modern luxury
and state-of-the art technology, uniquely produced to evoke
the possibilities.
Sensual purity as an expression of modern luxury – this was the
focus for the designers, and is the design philosophy of Mercedes-
Benz. The aim is to create clear contours and smooth surfaces
that showcase high tech while radiating emotional appeal. The
sensual purity is reflected in the core design values of tradition,
emotion and progressivism. These make up the guiding star, and
are accentuated differently depending on the model. Mercedes-
Benz creates a bridge between modernity and the avant-garde,
between tradition and progressivism. Each model series has an
assigned role and a very specific character, depending on the attributes
on which the design focuses. And yet a Mercedes-Benz is
always recognizable as a Mercedes-Benz. Because in addition to
incorporating new stylistic developments, and in the interests of
keeping tradition alive, the designers draw from a gene-pool of
styling features typical of the brand.
"Our new S-Class Coupe is one of the most gorgeous coupes of
all time, representing the most radical aesthetic departure from
its predecessor," says Gorden Wagener, Vice President Daimler
AG. "The sensuous flowing silhouette in interplay with the clear
progressive design language forms a perfect symbiosis and expresses
our philosophy of sensual purity with pithy precision."
The history of the large post-war Mercedes coupes dates back to
the year 1952, when Mercedes-Benz launched the legendary 300
S Coupe - a "car for the world's elite" as the automotive press of
the time judged. It was followed in 1956 by the 220 S Coupe of
model series W 180, which created a sensation in particular due
to its self-supporting pontoon body. From 1961 to 1971 the longdrawn
out elegant Coupe of model series W111/W112 enthralled
no less than 29,918 highly discerning customers, who were able
to choose between the Type 220 SEb Coupe six-cylinder models
and the Type 280 SE 3.5 Coupe eight-cylinder models.
84 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
by Mai Yomioto
"As exclusive as it gets – the ultimate in aesthetic sportiness",
stresses Ola Källenius, Member of the Board of Management,
Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars. "The breathtaking design
of the Concept S-Class Coupe marked by sporty-classic proportions
and sensual purity is transferred to the series-production
S-Class Coupe virtually unaltered. The large coupe has always
been the supreme pinnacle of our model range and that's why it's
now called the 'S-Class' again."
"The world premiere of the active curve tilting function demonstrates
the possibilities offered by Mercedes-Benz Intelligent
Drive," notes Prof Dr Thomas Weber, member of the board of
management of Daimler AG with responsibility for corporate research
and Mercedes-Benz Cars development. "The vehicle leans
into bends much like a motorcyclist, thereby reducing the lateral
acceleration acting on the vehicle's occupants. On country roads
in particular, this means greater driving pleasure and ride comfort
for our customers." The two-door S550 Coupe will be available
in the U.S. as a 4MATIC only with a 4.7L V8 biturbo engine. The
continued on page 86...
Photos courtesy of Daimler AG

S550 Coupe has an output of 449 hp and its torque level peaks at
516 lb-ft. The sporty driving experience is significantly enhanced
by the emotional sound produced by the exhaust system.
With the curve tilting function the Coupe introduces a further
world first for series-production cars: The Coupe leans into
bends in a manner similar to a motorcyclist or skier. The lateral
acceleration acting upon occupants is reduced in a way akin to
when driving in a steep curve, and passengers sit more firmly.
On country roads in particular, the new curve tilting function
enhances driving enjoyment and comfort.
Numerous standard equipment features are available to make
the interior of the S-Class Coupe exceptionally luxurious and
comfortable. For example, the AIR-BALANCE package including
the components "fragrancing" and "ionization" is available. Optional
equipment includes an electric armrest heating as a component
of the Warmth Comfort package.
The interior design of the new S-Class Coupe is an expression of
the Mercedes-Benz design idiom – sensual purity. An enthralling
combination of sculptural sensuous volume elements and components,
and the clear geometry of its basic architecture create
an avant-garde design idiom. A high class appeal, quality workmanship
and exceptional touch and feel are a treat for the passengers'
senses, so that the car's interior represents the highest
level of "modern luxury".
Like the S-Class Sedan, the new Coupe is available with numerous
new assistance systems that make driving even more
comfortable and safer. The "Intelligent Drive" systems include,
among other things the PRE-SAFE® brake with pedestrian detection,
DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist, BAS PLUS with
Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Highbeam
Assist and Night View Assist Plus. COLLISION PREVEN-
TION ASSIST PLUS features an additional function apart from
the adaptive brake assistant, which provides collision protection
from a speed of 4 mph: if there remains a danger of collision and
the driver fails to respond, the system can carry out an autonomous
braking maneuver at speeds of up to 65 mph, thereby reducing
the severity of collisions with slower or stopping vehicles.
The system also brakes in response to stationary vehicles at a
speed of up to 31 mph, and is able to prevent rear-end collisions
at up to 25 mph.
As in the sedan, the PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant protection
system has been expanded through the inclusion of PRE-SAFE®
PLUS. PRE-SAFE® PLUS can recognize an imminent rear-end
collision. If the danger of a collision persists, the system can also
firmly apply the parking brake on the vehicle stationary and thus
minimize the risk of whiplash injuries by reducing the forward
jolt caused by an impact from the rear.
The new S-Class Coupe and its innovations seamlessly continue
the tradition of large coupes into the future and will launch in the
U.S. this fall with the S550 4MATIC.
86 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Sun-Sational
eleganceBy Scott Black
Take on a great challenge to develop a large-size yacht without sacrificing comfort or sportiness. One
company completed the task; Pershing, a brand of the Ferretti Group. Introducing the Pershing 82', a
distinguishing performance yacht like no other.
Pershing 82', penciled by the yacht designer Fulvio De Simoni in close collaboration with AYT (Advanced
Yacht Technology - the centre of naval research and design of the Ferretti Group) and the team of
architects and designers of Centro Stile Ferrettigroup, features an external profile that is more sleek and
aggressive than that of its predecessor, thanks to the shape of the wider lateral windows which can be
opened, providing more interior brightness.
The elongated superstructure that enhances the new attractive lines and the introduction of a sun-deck
while keeping the retractable hardtop above the main helm, makes the yacht look sharp and it stands
out immediately.
After the success of Pershing 74', Pershing 82' returns with a sun-deck, that can be easily accessed
from an automated hatch and a carbon fiber staircase, a little mechanical masterpiece created by AYT
in close collaboration with Besenzoni. The staircase is decentralized and drops automatically into the
cockpit by electro-hydraulic control and automatically disappears upwards when closed, freeing the
space in the cockpit.
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FOCUS of SWFL 2014 89

The sun-deck is simple and functional: there is an (optional)
retractable helm, and two comfortable lateral chaise
lounges next to the pilot's seat, in which a practical minibar
has been placed. To complete the layout of the sun-deck,
there are sunbeds with separate and folding backrests and
for safety purposes there are two lateral handles and a
pulpit which blend in completely with the aesthetics of the
superstructure.
All the other stylistic features that have distinguished the
Pershing models, contributing to its worldwide success, remain
the same: the large windows on the walls, the large
retractable door that divides the cockpit from the saloon
with electro-hydraulic control and the special system of fiberglass
vacuum molding.
Pershing 82' is 24.97 (81ft 11in) metres long and has a
maximum width of 5.50m (18ft) with 4 comfortable guest
90 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
cabins (the master suite amidships, a VIP cabin forward
and two cabins with twin beds at the bow) for the standard
layout, or 3 guest cabins for the optional version, with a
lounge-cinema room starboard, and two crew cabins with
three beds.
Practicality, combined to design, reigns in the cockpit,
where there is a sofa and a seat, which can electrically
transform into a comfortable sunbathing area, a mobile bar
with BBQ and a fiberglass table, which is the same colour as
the hull, providing all that is necessary for social on board
living. As in other models of the range, even on Pershing
82' the sun-deck at the cockpit is completely independent
from the opening of the large garage, which has a folding
bottom to facilitate the movement of the jet ski and a tender.
This comfort is completed a hidden passarella created
by Besenzoni. The crew are able to enter their quarters
from the cockpit or inside the salon.
continued on page 92...

The main guideline leading the stylistic choices for the
large salon is maximum space flexibility with refined elegance.
As you enter, on the right, there is a big L-shaped
sofa, while in the middle there is another sofa that can be
joined to make u-shaped seating. The long-standing and
prestigious partnership with Poltrona Frau, that designed
the sofas of the saloon, inspired by the model Quadra, has
been renewed on Pershing 82'. All the furnishings are made
of pore oak while the flooring is made of oak covered in
wengè.
On the sun-deck there is also a comfortable sunbathing
area at the bow, with dinette and a table, providing complete
privacy in an area that is entirely dedicated to relaxation.
Below deck, space is typical divided for a mega yacht, for
example the galley is separate from the salon and it combines
with the crew area to allow greater privacy for the
guests and the ship owner. The galley, which is L-shaped
and is completely separate from the sleeping area, has a
dinette and a folding table, ensuring comfort and a decent
life on board. The crew area, which is made of two cabins
(one for the captain and one for two additional crew) as
well as a laundry and a bathroom, can also be accessed
from the kitchen.
The standard sleeping area, made of four cabins, is a model
of comfort and design. In the master suite, amidships,
we find the appreciated wide open-view windows, which
marked the aesthetic course of the new Pershing range.
The sinuous shape of the window draws in a generous passage
of light that throws a pleasant play of lights onto the
Poltrona Frau Leather furnishings.
The VIP cabin, at the bow, with an en-suite head, features
an elegant central bed and two big lateral wardrobes, while
the two guest cabins have a more traditional setting with
two twin beds. All the guest cabins are finished with carpet
as standard.
92 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

The wrap-round light system, which was already
used on Pershing 74', provide indirect lighting
with the embedded LED lights, distributed along
the ducts on the concealed molding emphasizing
the homogeneously diffused lights and giving a
modern style to the environment. Moreover, all
the internal steps have a LED light to illuminate
the passageways.
Photos courtesy of Ferretti Group America
Besides the innovative solutions designed for
the external structure and for the design below
deck, the new Pershing 82' was developed to
ensure maximum performance at sea: two powerful
MTU 16 V M93 of 2435 mhp (1792 kW)
coupled with ZF Searex SR140S surface propellers
that guarantee a maximum speed of 45
knots and a cruising speed of 40 knots with high
levels of comfort and a range of more than 300
nautical miles. The Autotrim of ZF contributes
to the high technological level of this vessel. It
is a system that is capable of optimizing performance
at any speed automatically making it
very easy for newcomers to operate Pershing's
surface drive propulsion system.
www.pershing-yacht.com

Mercedes-Benz
Fashion Week
FALL 2014
Lincoln Center was abuzz with the start of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, with
a line-up of over 100 designers showing their fall 2014 Collections. Among the
world's most renowned designers, Mercedes-Benz is showing off a trendsetter
of its own, the all-new 2015 GLA-Class. Hitting showrooms this fall, this
stylish, new SUV is part of an innovative category of vehicles offering a new
gateway into the Mercedes-Benz brand.
The GLA-Class combines a fun, adventurous spirit with a design that begs
to be noticed, similar to the famous NYC street style revered by the fashion
industry. To help celebrate, Mercedes-Benz is bringing street style inside
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in a unique installation featuring photography
by renowned street style photographer Youngjun Koo of KOO.IM.
Throughout the week, Koo hit the streets of New York to capture urbanites
sporting notable fashions. His photography was printed and wheat-pasted
onto an interactive display surrounding the GLA-Class within the main lobby
of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, who will make the entire city of New York
their stage.
One of the most anticipated events of the year is the Mercedes-Benz Fashion
Week in NYC. Lincoln Center was abuzz with the start of Mercedes-Benz
Fashion Week, with a line-up of over 100 designers showing their fall 2014
Collections. Among the world's most renowned designers, Mercedes-Benz
is showing off a trendsetter of its own, the all-new 2015 GLA-Class. Hitting
showrooms this fall, this stylish, new SUV is part of an innovative category of
vehicles offering a new gateway into the Mercedes-Benz brand.
The GLA-Class combines a fun, adventurous spirit with a design that begs
to be noticed, similar to the famous NYC street style revered by the fashion
industry. To help celebrate, Mercedes-Benz is bringing street style inside
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in a unique installation featuring photography
by renowned street style photographer Youngjun Koo of KOO.IM.
Throughout the week, Koo hit the streets of New York to capture urbanites
sporting notable fashions. His photography was printed and wheat-pasted
onto an interactive display surrounding the GLA-Class within the main lobby
of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.
94 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
The Fall 2014 Collections have been much talked about over the last several
months following the announcement of some exciting changes completed for
the shows.
By Samantha Ramos
Photography by Frazer Harrison
Fernanda Calfat
Arun Nevader
Neilson Barnard
Albert Urso

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 95

With redesigned show venues that offer more versatile
environments, the introduction of The Pavilion- a brand
new venue at Lincoln Center, and The Hub at Hudsona
flexible presentation space for emerging talent just
minutes from the Tents. These venues were complimented
by a redesigned and modern Event Lobby that
offered guests a fashionable environment to conduct
business and network with a carefully curated list of
people. The redesign have enthused returning designers
to reconfigure their show production and have also
attracted new designers to debut their Collections at
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.
Photos courtesy of Getty Images
“As each season marks new growth for us, for Fall 2014
we decided to look for a premium show space that
would allow us to create an environment tailored to our
aesthetic. The introduction of The Pavilion at Mercedes-
Benz Fashion Week offers us the chance to show in a
venue that feels unique to Creatures of the The Wind,
and also makes use of the various benefits of showing
on-site at Lincoln Center. It’s a new idea for us, and we
are excited to see the results,” Shane Gabier and Christopher
Peters, designers, Creatures of The Wind.
“This is my fifth year showing at Mercedes-Benz Fashion
Week in New York and throughout the years the
team at IMG Fashion has always been there to help
me produce a show that is impactful and makes sense
for my overall business,” says Mara Hoffman. “I am
looking forward to seeing how the new venue changes
and event upgrades will improve the guest experience,
show production and ultimately help my brand connect
with the consumer.”
The newly launched MBFW District, will gave designers
the opportunity to extend their energy of fashion week
across all of New York City and present their collections
at off-site venues while remaining under the Mercedes-
Benz Fashion Week umbrella.
The MBFW Digital District was a virtual home for fashion
week, with live-streamed runway shows of designers
showing at Lincoln Center and throughout New
York. Was a powerful platform for designers to debut
their collections and to reach a worldwide audience of
fashion lovers.
Desigual
"I am very happy that MBFW and IMG Fashion have
taken the right steps to meet the industry's needs,”
says Diane von Furstenberg. “New York City is the
epicenter of fashion and the redesigned MBFW District
will show off all of the talent and culture that is seen
throughout the entire city. 2014 is a very special year
for my brand; the 40th Anniversary of the wrap-dress,
and I wanted to do something special to celebrate.
I am looking forward to hosting my show at a space
that is unique to this season’s vision and celebration,
and excited to continue being a part of Mercedes-Benz
Fashion Week.”
continued on page 103...
96 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Alicia Quarles
Mercedes-Benz all-new 2015 GLA-Class Kamie Crawford
Designer Diane Von Furstenberg
Emmy Rossum
Sasha Iastremska
Ana de la Reguera (L) and Cesar Galindo
Jamie Chung LaToya London Sarah Rafferty
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 97

Nicole Miller
Naeem Khan
Todd Snyder
Diesel Black Gold
Nautica
Carmen Marc Valvo
Marissa Webb
Son Jung Wan
Mark And Estel
Zimmermann
Mathieu Mirano
Tome
98 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Mathieu Mirano
David Tlale
Custo Barcelona
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 99

CMO of Macys Martine Reardon (L) and AHA CEO Nancy Brown
Ireland Baldwin
Lindsey Vonn
Giada De Laurentiis
Nene Leakes
The American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women (GRFW) and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute’s
(NHLBI) Heart Truth® present the 2014 Go Red For Women® / The Heart Truth ® Red Dress Collection?. The
centerpiece of both organizations is the Red Dress, which was introduced as the national symbol for women and
heart disease awareness in 2002 by NHLBI. The Red Dress® reminds women of the need to protect their heart
health and inspires them to take action. Seeking to advance the Red Dress symbol, Go Red For Women and The
Heart Truth will collaborate to bring forth its greatest assets in order to increase awareness about women’s No. 1
killer, heart disease. During the 2014 Red Dress Collection?, top designers, models, and celebrities demonstrated
their support for the issue of women and heart disease by participating in the Go Red For Women® / The Heart
Truth ® Red Dress Collection? at Fashion Shows at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.
100 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Joshuan Aponte
Reem Acra
Vivienne Tam
Dennis Basso
Angel Sanchez
Lela Rose
Badgley Mischka
Pamella Roland
Ivan Aguilar
Herve Leger
Venexiana
Katya Zol
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 101

Custo Barcelona
Donna Karan Diane Von Furstenberg
102 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Zac Posen
The preliminary lineup for the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall 2014
Collections includes: NICHOLAS K, BCBGMAXAZRIA, RAOUL, RICHARD
CHAI, CREATURES OF THE WIND, TADASHI SHOJI, DESIGUAL, TOME,
MARISSA WEBB, DANIEL VOSOVIC, TODD SNYDER, GO RED FOR WOMEN
®/THE HEART TRUTH ® RED DRESS COLLECTIONSM, MARK AND ESTEL,
ZIMMERMANN, REBECCA VALLANCE, CARMEN MARC VALVO, PEDRO DEL
HIERRO MADRID, TRINA TURK, NAUTICA, REBECCA MINKOFF, HACHE,
NICOLE MILLER, CHARLOTTE RONSON, ACADEMY OF ART UNIVERSITY,
EMERSON BY JACKIE FRASER-SWAN, RUFFIAN, LACOSTE, JILL STU-
ART, SON JUNG WAN, KOONHOR, HERVÉ LÉGER BY MAX AZRIA, MARA
HOFFMAN, ADEAM, IVAN AGUILAR, MONIQUE LHUILLIER, ASIA FASHION
COLLECTION, VENEXIANA, LELA ROSE, DKNY, DAVID TLALE, CUSTO
BARCELONA, PARKCHOONMOO, DIANE VON FURSTENBERG, VIVIENNE
TAM, GEORGINE, MESKITA, MATHIEU MIRANO, CAROLINA HERRERA,
NOON BY NOOR, TOMMY HILFIGER, ANGEL SANCHEZ, DENNIS BASSO,
ALON LIVNÉ, MILLY BY MICHELLE SMITH, KATYA LEONOVICH, REEM
ACRA, RICARDO SECO, ZAC POSEN, DONNA KARAN NEW YORK, TORY
BURCH, J.CREW, BADGLEY MISCHKA, JENNY PACKHAM, DIESEL BLACK
GOLD, LIBERTINE, NAEEM KHAN, CONCEPT KOREA, PAMELLA ROLAND,
MM6 MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA, SKINGRAFT, THE ART INSTITUTES,
MICHAEL KORS, NANETTE LEPORE, LIE SANG BONG, KAUFMANFRANCO,
HUGO BOSS, BETSEY JOHNSON, MARIST COLLEGE PRESENTS BETSEY
JOHNSON REPRISE, CLOVER CANYON, CUTECIRCUIT, ANNA SUI, ZANG
TOI, RALPH LAUREN, RACHEL ZOE, J. MENDEL, CALVIN KLEIN, BIBHU
MOHAPATRA and HERNAN LANDER.
"Mercedes-Benz design is fascinating in so many ways providing
the brand with a unique opportunity to position itself among
the most important fashion labels in the world," says Danielle
Nachmani, stylist for Mercedes-Benz. "There are only a handful of
iconic fashion houses that can take luxury across every segment,
but still hold true to its values and craftsmanship."
Enthusiasts found no shortage of thrilling content during this
week long schedule of backstage beauty looks, insider interviews
and streaming videos. The magic of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week
in New York continues with new life in a highly stylized, fashion
forward world; to perfectly illustrate the diverse roster of talent,
beauty and digital presence. Once again, Mercedes-Benz in
collaboration with other companies, including esteemed designers
from around the globe delivered the excitement to all fashion
lovers everywhere.
Tadashi Shoji
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 103

Designer
Profile
Alfredo Villalba
The delicate treatment of structuring the base model
is performed using the technique of moulage;
directly over a mannequin, afterwards decimated
motifs of other Haute Couture fabrics are applied
by hand on the model. Subsequently are added
details of rhinestones, metals or Swarovski crystals
also sewn by hand, one by one. Finally each model
is thoroughly inspected, the seams are hidden and
ultimate adjustments are made. Each Haute Couture
model by ALFREDO VILLALBA entails between
150 and 300 hours of work in its confection and is
accomplished entirely by skilled petite mains in the
Atelier of the luxury brand in Madrid.
Exclusive models that comprise the Haute Couture
Collection by ALFREDO VILLALBA SS 14, the luxury
brand Made in Spain that redefines the aesthetic
concepts related to Haute Couture. Seven
unique dresses, fashion jewels inspired by a floral
metalica.
Antagonistic concepts, seal of the Couture House,
flowers and metal come together in a fashion collage.
Portraits that enhance the shape of women,
veiled by transparencies, of tulle, of lace. Long
dresses spread kissing the floor, short dresses
bloom into subtle leggings that render shoes covered
with delicate floral motifs.
Metal mesh, guipure metallic thread, rhinestones,
pearls and ostrich feathers, a textile nature
enriched,metalica in a botanical garden. Tenuous
colors, natural, silver, blue, raised embroidery, sensorial
dresses that spin 360º, in search of the sun,
in search of the moon, arriving at the reflection of
beauty.
www.alfredovillalba.es
106 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 107

Spring
Style!
into
Shake off those snow boots and put away the parka. The new
fashion season has arrived, and it brings with it a slew of new
trends that are warm-weather ready.
Our favorite looks for spring 2014 and tips on how to wear
them – from the season’s biggest color to its freshest cuts
and boldest prints and patterns, you’ll find everything you
need to get the look you'll love this spring.
Back in Blue
This spring’s hottest hue is actually pretty cool. Blue in shades
like ice, glacier, navy and everything in-between will show up
all over your wardrobe in the coming months, so scoop it up
early in the season and wear it through the summer.
An easy update that adds some blue: swapping out your
black for navy. Trade your black jacket and white tee in for
subtly textured scuba jacket and shell in navy. Want to keep
it casual? Add a pair of slouchy track pants in heathered navy
to keep the look monochromatic without going overboard.
For something a little more prim and proper, try an abstract
blue print in a classic silhouette. We love the combination of
bright blue and tan, so add a waist-cinching belt and a pair
of tan pumps for a little something extra that won’t draw the
eye from your dress.
Seeking something a little sleeker? Try a color-blocked strapless
dress in shades of cobalt and robin’s egg, complete with
nautical stripes that give the whole look a touch of summer.
If you’re only looking for a hint of blue, add some to your
accessories. A suede fringe tote, cobalt bejeweled sandal, or
ice blue bangle is the perfect way to try out the trend without
diving in head-first.
Start with an a-line silhouette you already know and make it
sportier from head to toe. Rather than cinching your waist in
a midi skirt, go for a cropped tank that shows some skin– add
a chunky flat sandal with thick leather bands to keep the look
athletic rather than ladylike.
Mix genres a little with a short suit that’s sport-inspired without
being unprofessional. A zigzag pattern makes the combination
of a skort and leather tee look a little more serious,
and the collarless jacket is the perfect fit to top the look off
with something more grown-up.
Whether you’re wearing a shift dress or wide-leg trousers,
sheer panels and mesh can take a monochromatic look from
staid to sensational. In a dress, stick to a simple silhouette
with a high neckline – a sheer hem that’s short enough
speaks volumes without showing off too much leg. If you’re
sticking to pants, try layering a mesh sweater over a perforated
leather shell – the combination keeps you covered and
cool at the same time. Add a pair of wide-leg trousers and
slicked-back hair for a sleek finishing touch.
Lace looks a little edgier this spring as designers up the ante
on the classic texture with colorblocking, unusual patterns,
and three-dimensional embellishments. The easiest way to
try out the latest lace is in a simple shift that tries all three
trends at once – featuring a sheer chiffon hem, nude and
canary yellow color-blocking, and a seriously 3-d pattern, this
Rebecca Taylor dress is just the ticket.
Feeling like your sporty streak is a little sidelined by a ladylike
look? Trade those single-sole pumps in for an unexpected
sandal – a pair of white leather Birkenstocks will do the trick
perfectly.
Sporty Femme
The newest feminine and flirty looks incorporate unexpected
sporty touches from head to toe. Add athletic touches to classic
silhouettes, see-through patches to sheaths and sweaters,
and eye-catching color-blocking to more traditional lace
for a look that’s entirely of-the-moment.
108 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Everyday Exotic
This spring’s prints are inspired by exotic textures,
old-school dye techniques, and traditional patterns
from around the world, but they’re designed so that
you won’t quite be about to put your finger on their
origins. It’s like all the conversational prints from last
spring went on vacation somewhere warm and came
back looking more interesting – and easier to wear –
than ever before.
Can’t quite place the inspiration behind that print?
That’s what we like best about this Proenza Schouler
dress. Looking simultaneously like stained glass, tangled
tree branches and abstract art, it’s the perfect
way to keep ‘em guessing and look great at the same
time.
Mixing prints was big last spring, but now the proportions
have changed. Try a totally exaggerated floral
print with a teeny tiny tile pattern – as long as the
color combination fits, they’ll mix just fine.
Nobody does a big abstract print quite like Mary Katrantzou
. A big box pleat and a scuba-style racerback
neckline help this cocktail frock feel of-the-moment,
and the oversized digital print makes it a huge step up
from a basic black dress.
PROENZA SCHOULER
Proenza Schouler Layered Dress with Peplum,
$7,850, available at select Nordstrom stores and
nordstrom.com
A loud print often looks best on a simple silhouette,
and this Diane von Furstenberg dress is no exception.
The fit-and-flare scoop-neck shape makes it easy to
wear and the attention-grabbing pattern makes it hard
to forget.
To make sure your favorite print gets the spotlight,
pair a pattern on your clothes with a solid on your
feet. A sporty metallic sandal does the trick perfect –
and it’s comfortable to boot.
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 109

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG
Diane von Furstenberg Fit and Flare Dress,
$498, available in March at Nordstrom
stores and nordstrom.com
110 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

VINCE CAMUTO ORGANZA
Vince Camuto Organza-Trim Dress, $159; Faux-
Leather Sleeveless Pullover, $159; Mesh Sweater,
$99; Wide-Leg Pants, $109, available in March at
Nordstrom stores and nordstrom.com
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I•N•C INTERNATIONAL CONCEPTS
T-shirt 59.50
Shorts 49.50
Available at select Macy's and at macys.com
AFANI
Dress 69.50
Available at select Macy's and at macys.com
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AMERICAN RAG
Romper 45.00
Available at select Macy's and at macys.com
KENSIE
Blazer 119.00
Dress 119.00
Available at select Macy's and at macys.com
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Short Sleeve Fine Gauge Cotton Cable Polo $59.50
5 Pocket Straight Leg Jean $24.97

Original Stretch Chino Trouser $59.50
Emma Classic Ballet $49.50
Long Sleeve Woven Ruffle Henley $34.50
Leather Single Belt $49.50
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PANDORA’s collection of outstanding jewelry features raw,
elegant designs inspired by rock style with a hint of vintage
and a bit of attitude.
PANDORA bracelets give women the freedom to capture
the unforgettable moments that make life extraordinary
and the new charms of the fall season offer a twist on
what has become the hallmark of the PANDORA brand.
Two elegant sterling silver bracelets are also new–one is
designed to hold one traditional or new decorative clip,
the other as many as five. Mix, match and combine the clips
and bracelets in any combination, creating pieces that are
unique to your personal style. It’s an idea inspired by PAN-
DORA’s popular charm bracelet.
Create and combine looks with other new additions to
the PANDORA universe, including a line of 14k solid gold
earrings, pendants and dangle charms with intricate lace
details and diamonds; and large cocktail rings, featuring
amethyst or grey moonstone, that are perfect for stacking.
Stunning earrings inspired by delicate lace patterns in 14K
gold with freshwater pearls and diamonds can be worn on
their own, layered or combined with other pieces from the
Compose collection. Rings in 14K gold, sterling and black
oxidized silver have florally inspired designs with an unpredictable
twist that is raw yet feminine.
Large cocktail rings in amethyst or grey moonstone are
perfect for stacking with this season’s more delicate pieces.
New LovePod rings in white, yellow and rose 18K gold with
brilliant-cut diamonds or colorful gemstones work beautifully
with other pieces of PANDORA jewelry and interlock
when stacked together.
The spirit of nostalgic rock infuses the collection, especially
our new sterling silver decorative clips in raw, sculptural
shapes. The other standouts include a star-shaped pendant
and charm in black oxidized silver, an alluring finish that
runs through the collection.

Model: Ellina K.
Hair & Make up: Lars Rüffert (www.lars-rueffert.de)
Photo & postproduction: Krystina Woldanowski
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TOO
HOT
KrystinaWoldanowski
www.krystinawoldanowski.com
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Model: Claudia P.
Hair & Make up: Anna Tsoulcha
(www.anna-tsoulcha.de)
Styling: Anna Tsoulcha & Krystina Woldanowski
Photo & postproduction: Krystina Woldanowski
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Model: Isabel B. (Wolf Models Hamburg)
Hair & Make up: Shani Make up Artist
Photo & postproduction: Krystina Woldanowski
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Model: Isabel B. (Wolf Models Hamburg)
Hair & Make up: Shani Make up Artist
Photo & postproduction: Krystina Woldanowski
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Model: Nina Ensmann (www.ninaensmann.de)
Hair & Make up: Jutta Alvermann (www.alvermann.de)
Styling: Julia Albracht
Photo & postproduction: Krystina Woldanowski

Model: Nora B.
Hair & Make up: Milko Grieger
(www.milko-grieger.de)
Styling: Krystina Woldanowski
Photo & postproduction: Krystina Woldanowski
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Model: Nina Ensmann (www.ninaensmann.de)
Hair & Make up: Jutta Alvermann (www.alvermann.de)
Styling: Julia Albracht
Photo & postproduction: Krystina Woldanowski
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Photo by AUC Photography/Alberto Coronel – www.facebook.com/AUCphotography
Model: Amalia Lopez (Dark Alice – a creation/inspiration by Cara Silverman)
Hair by Andrea Beckerich – www.Hairbyandreanyack.com
Vision, coordination, casting, wardrobe styling, creative direction & make-up by Cara Silverman:
www.facebook.com/eye2cheekchic
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Magic
Airin the
by Dan Myricks
Award-winning, published make-up/visual artist, Cara Silverman is taking the
world by storm and doing so with vibrant colors, passion and energy like none
other. Born & raised Jersey girl, with a prominent New York City spirit, Cara
has always had a love for nature, NYC and art, which she tries to incorporate
in as many of her shoots as possible.
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Photo by AUC Photography/Alberto Coronel – www.facebook.com/AUCphotography
Model: Azarja (Mad Hatter)
Hair by Andrea Beckerich – www.Hairbyandreanyack.com
Vision, coordination, casting, wardrobe styling, creative direction & make-up by Cara Silverman:
www.facebook.com/eye2cheekchic
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Very different than other make-up artists, Cara invests
herself completely in every project she does. She organizes
a lot of her own shoots and chooses her own models,
photographers, hair stylists and sometimes gets others
involved too; like designers and retouchers.
A socialite at heart, Cara loves networking and creating art
with the most talented people in the industry. She has a
keen eye for casting, and also acts as the creative director
& wardrobe stylist at her photo shoots. Her never-ending
energy and inspiring passion is contagious and the word
is spreading quickly – she has a multitude of inquiring clients
from all over; some within the U.S., like Georgia, and
some internationally, like Israel and Brazil.
Cara has had a love for makeup since before she even understood
it. As a child, Cara would sneak into her mother's
room to play with the vast colors and soft brushes that
her mother had. Not knowing what was what, she used
concealer for lipstick, eye shadow as blush, and so on.
Photo by Nino Ignacio Photography – www.facebook.com/NinoIgnacioPhotography
Models: (Left to Right) Vanessa Aviles (Queen of Hearts), Deranged Dollface (Cheshire Cat), Amalia Lopez
(Dark Alice – a creation/inspiration by Cara Silverman), Azarja (Mad Hatter), Marine Michaels (Alice)
Hair by Andrea Beckerich – www.Hairbyandreanyack.com
Vision, coordination, casting, wardrobe styling, creative direction & make-up by Cara Silverman:
www.facebook.com/eye2cheekchic
When Cara grew up and started working in the Big Apple,
she spent a lot of time at Sephora in between waitressing
shifts, and learned all that she could about the cosmetics
industry. She became friends with the artists and specialists
and absorbed all of the information that she could.
One day, she was introduced to a DJ by a close friend
and was told to "go nuts" with her make-up. A prominent
make-up artist in the Times Square Sephora used to
use Cara as a demonstration to tourists, and when Cara
came in over-joyed about the opportunity to wear some
crazy make-up, he introduced her to the world of COLOR
and LASHES. For the first time in her life, Cara wore fake
eyelashes… probably not what you're imagining. I'm talking
about hot pink with black feather eyelashes. It was at
that moment, and that first look in the mirror, that Cara
realized her love for make-up and the vision of transformation,
the beauty that lies in the art of make-up. This
fabulous make-up artist friend of Cara's did her make-up
about 2 more times before he had to move to Hollywood
to pursue his own dreams.
continued on page 133...
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At this point, Cara was hooked. She loved the colors, the
textures, the lashes; all of it. So, she taught herself how to
put them on without his help… and succeeded. She was
inundated with compliments and inquiries every time she
posted an image, and received tons of encouragement to
be a make-up artist and pursue a career, but at first, she
was reluctant. She didn't want something she loved so
much to become "work" that she would grow to dislike.
A few years down the road, she realized that her love for
make-up was the one constant in her life. The one thing
that was always unwavering and strong. She woke up one
day and simply said to herself: "I'm going to be a make-up
artist." …and she did just that.
Thanks to the continued love and support of her friends
and colleagues, Cara returned to doing what she loves. To
express art, share beauty, help others see the world in a
way that they may not have before. She does it because
she loves it, to put something in the world that wasn’t
there before, to thrive in her passion, and she really is an
inspiration to so many. She is living proof that you can do
anything you put your mind to. Cara is quickly becoming
a very highly sought after artist and photo shoot organizer.
In a world that can be so dull and sad at times, it
is refreshing to see some vibrancy and magic, and that
is exactly what Cara brings with her unique talent and
incredible passion.
She didn't have a real portfolio, only pictures of herself,
which no one would take seriously, so she set up her own
Portfolio Photo Shoot with 3 models, a wardrobe stylist,
hair dresser, photographer and assistant. From there, she
was able to acquire more gigs, which all made her fall
more and more in love with the industry. She even got
to a point, the summer of 2012, where she was to be a
featured make-up artist in a showcase, but had to turn it
down due to the unexpected loss of her mother. Because
of this loss, Cara took a pretty big hiatus from her makeup
career to gather her thoughts and mourn in her own
way.
She didn't have a real portfolio, only pictures of herself,
which no one would take seriously, so she set up her own
Portfolio Photo Shoot with 3 models, a wardrobe stylist,
hair dresser, photographer and assistant. From there, she
was able to acquire more gigs, which all made her fall
more and more in love with the industry. She even got
to a point, the summer of 2012, where she was to be a
featured make-up artist in a showcase, but had to turn it
down due to the unexpected loss of her mother. Because
of this loss, Cara took a pretty big hiatus from her makeup
career to gather her thoughts and mourn in her own
way.
Thanks to the continued love and support of her friends
and colleagues, Cara returned to doing what she loves. To
express art, share beauty, help others see the world in a
way that they may not have before. She does it because
she loves it, to put something in the world that wasn’t
there before, to thrive in her passion, and she really is an
inspiration to so many. She is living proof that you can do
anything you put your mind to. Cara is quickly becoming
a very highly sought after artist and photo shoot organizer.
In a world that can be so dull and sad at times, it
is refreshing to see some vibrancy and magic, and that
is exactly what Cara brings with her unique talent and
incredible passion.
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LauraFerreira
Photography of
www.lauraferreira.com
Photography by Laura Ferreira
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Photography by Laura Ferreira
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 135

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Photography by Laura Ferreira

Photography by Laura Ferreira
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Photography by Laura Ferreira

Photography by Laura Ferreira
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Photography by Laura Ferreira

Photography by Laura Ferreira
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Photography by Richard Evans
Florida Fashion Week
Everyone likes fashions for its glamour and trends. The image
of seeing new designs coupled with high energy music gives us
unlimited ideas, of what could be heading towards our closets. If
you enjoy the fashion shows in Paris, New York and other locations,
the Florida Fashion Week would have been no exception. This year,
hosting an unforgettable event, Florida Fashion Week kicked off
in Naples, Florida; internationally recognized for Bentley’s, estate
homes and beautiful weather.
By Richard Ramos
Photography by Jim France
142 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
Fashion and culinary enthusiasts came out to celebrate personal
style and support the St. Matthews House of Southwest Florida.
Florida Fashion Week has grown to become the premier industry
event of the year, bringing together everyone from the fashion and
culinary industry including. The event included designers, chefs,
mixologists and artists, to create a week like no other. Running for
its second season, Florida Fashion Week unleashed its creative and
colorful vision to a packed group of attendees that had a great appreciation
for new trends.

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 143

Backstage was brimming with the hottest models, makeup
artist and hair stylist for this year’s weeklong event. Joining
the limelight, these esteemed designers, such as Helen
Gerro (resort wear), Styles By Jada, VY Fashions, Desiree
Nicole (formal wear and men’s suits), Luis Salvotti (paper
gowns), Lunatik Clothing (Fridays Glamour & Glow night),
Petunias Boutique, Exclusively Fabulous, Dillard’s (men's
wear) and Lourdes Atencio joined in collaboration for this
year’s Florida Fashion Week in Naples. Title sponsor for the
event was Germain BMW of Naples joined by Whole Foods,
Hair Creation & Beautycare, Salon Salvati and others.
This is truly something special, filled with a colorful vision
for those that love to interact, meet industry professionals
within a creative platform. This year was set to unleash
one glamorous spectacle after another, beginning with “The
Spirits of Fashion” an evening of exotic mixes; followed by
“The Fashion of Food”, with an array of chefs creating art
like delights. The presentations were so exotic and delightful,
it was difficult to choose what to take home or eat, as
everything was tasteful! These events were followed by a
high energy show, “Glamour and Glow,” a black light fashion
show. Ending the week with a grand runway show and
VIP event.
Photography by Jim France
This year’s Florida Fashion Week inspired everyone with
unforgettable moments that combined femininity, strength,
and glamour.
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Florida Fashion Week 2014
Photography by Jim France
146 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Photography by Richard Evans
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 147

Petit Pois’
Inspired by Alice in Wonderland! Incorporating sleek silhouettes and a fantastical color
palette, designer Viviana Gabeiras channels fun and playful vibes with a Venezuelan twist
in her pieces. Combining her traditional use of playful patterns with solids in perfect spring
hues, Gabeiras creates an amazing array of pieces that combine the feminism of the Petit
Pois line with the anticipated trends next season. From edgy and urban to feminine and
whimsical, the collection is perfect for all personalities.
www,mypetitpois.com
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Photographer: Antonio Martez
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Photographer: Antonio Martez

Photographer: Antonio Martez
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Photographer: Antonio Martez

Photographer: Antonio Martez
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 153

Keep
Connected
When Away from Home
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
Whether your international travel is for business or pleasure,
chances are you’d like to remain connected. Your wireless
phone or tablet is a likely solution, but not all wireless services
are created equal.
When U.S. customers use their phones abroad the way they
normally do at home, their costs can total $1,000 a day or
more. According to a study by T-Mobile, more than 40 percent
of customers turn off data roaming completely to avoid
those fees, and another 20 percent say they would if they
knew how.
“Wireless customers face a hard choice — use their phone
when they need it and pay the price, or cut off communications
to contain costs,” said Desmond Smith, senior product
manager at T-Mobile. “In reality, with a little pre-planning,
customers can find the right carrier and service plan that
meets their travel needs, significantly reducing, or even
eliminating, travel-related wireless charges.”
Before you pack your bags and begin your travel adventure,
spend some time researching the best wireless company, device
and data plan to fit your needs and check that you have
the right accessories too, including an international power
converter.
Choosing a Carrier
With so many wireless service providers available, it’s difficult
to know which one to choose. Especially if you will be traveling
internationally, choosing the right data plan is not only
about ensuring you have freedom and peace of mind (so
you don’t come home to bill shock) — it’s also about making
sure you choose a phone company that focuses on customer
service and provides flexibility and choice.
Family Features
• Ditch the burdensome contract — Several providers offer
no-contract wireless service that gives you freedom and
flexibility without being locked into a service agreement for a
year or more.
• Make the world your network — Look for carriers, such as
T-Mobile, that provide unlimited data and texting worldwide,
freeing you from worrying about coming home to bill shock
from outrageous roaming fees.
• Don’t break the bank — Some providers offer programs to
help manage the out-of-pocket costs associated with purchasing
new devices.
• Device upgrades — If you’re accident prone, likely to break
or lose devices while circling the globe or just like to upgrade
your phone frequently, look for protection and upgrade options
such as T-Mobile’s JUMP! program. For $10 per month,
you can protect your device and have the option to upgrade
twice per year to the latest phone.
• Explore the extras — Prepaid international calling cards
may also be available through your wireless provider. If your
travels keep you in the States but your wireless needs take
you beyond, some carriers offer plans that allow you to talk
with friends, family or business associates across the globe.
The Right Device
Shopping for a smartphone or tablet doesn’t have to be
stressful or complicated. Selecting the right device is simply
a matter of asking the right questions and talking to the experts.
A sales associate can help you select a phone that will
best meet your needs.
Several new options are now available, and one in high
demand is Google Nexus 5. When combined with a nationwide
4G LTE network, Google Nexus 5’s stunning, lightweight
design, speedy processor and LTE capabilities offer users the
best experience for staying connected.
154 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

When making your purchase, consider:
• Device compatibility abroad
• Shape/size
• Display
• Keyboard size and form
These and additional tips for staying connected when traveling
internationally can be found at www.T-Mobile.com.
Worry-free Wireless Travel Abroad
Follow a few tips from the experts at T-Mobile and help keep
your travels on track and free of complications:
1. Pack the essentials, including portable chargers, an international
power converter and MicroSD cards to give you
added storage space for photos and more.
2. Get insured. If you don’t already have one, now is the
time to secure an insurance plan to protect yourself in case
your device is damaged, lost or stolen.
3. Check your coverage before you travel, including network
specifications and international data rates, and make adjustments
if necessary to avoid costly surprises in your bill when
you return.
4. Travel safe with features such as Bluetooth for hands-free
driving while navigating the twists and turns of unfamiliar
roads, or applications like T-Mobile’s DriveSmart Plus, which
silences incoming notifications, sending callers to voicemail
and auto-responds to incoming text messages.
5. Pack light by bringing a multi-function smartphone that
allows you to access entertainment with videos and games,
mobile music player, GPS navigator, high quality digital camera,
and in some cases, even a mobile hotspot.
Best Apps for Travel
Check out these leading apps to help you navigate a
successful journey:
Unit Conversion Free, Currency (iOS, but others are
available for most platforms): Converts temperature,
distance, weight, volume, speed and more, including
currency in real time
Where (iOS, Android, BlackBerry): Collects the location-specific
information you can find in a number of
other, more specialized apps into one uber-app —
making it easy to find a restaurant or other location
nearby
Expedia (Android, iOS): Travel search, information
and hotel/flight booking, with the opportunity to uncover
mobile-exclusive discounts on last-minute hotel
bookings
GateGuru (Android, iOS, Windows Phone): View your
TripIt and Kayak itineraries, as well as view/post airport
security wait times and see a structured list of airport
food, shops and services
iStone (iOS): Translation app designed for international
travelers without any great linguistic skills; records
and translates into 12 languages and provides more
than 300 useful phrases
Image It (iOS): Translates a picture into the actual
word of the object with more than 450 pictograms in
categories such as food, emergencies, accommodation
and transport
Waze (iOS, Android, BlackBerry, Windows Phone)
Navigational map system that is constantly updated
in real time using drivers’ GPS points with automatic
alerts on traffic jams, fender-benders, detours and
even police traps
SeatGuru (Android, iOS): Provides crucial in-flight information
— from seat pitch to the proximity to the
toilet to the likeliness to be bumped
JetLag Genie (iOS): Helps reduce the effects of jet lag
by providing customized action plans based on your
flight info and personal sleep patterns
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 155

PACE Center for Girls of Lee County has selected three more women to
be honored at the Sixth Annual Grande Dames Tea honoring some of our
community’s most revered women.
This year’s honorees are:
● Barbara Norris Brown of Fort Myers– This 82-year-old doesn’t
know the meaning of “retire.” As the full-time Development Coordinator
of Hope Healthcare Services, she works with donors to the non-profit organization
to help them accomplish their goals, just as she has done for
the past 20 years. As a fifth generation Lee County native, Barbara has
left her imprint throughout Southwest Florida as president of the Fort
Myers Woman’s Community Club, president of FGCU’s Town & Gown,
chairman of the Canterbury School Parents Association and as a member
of the Edison Pageant of Light and the Fort Myers Centennial Committee.
● Sarah Sciple of Matlacha – Few people have lived a more
adventurous life than Sarah, a Lee County native who has jumped out of
an airplane 25 times, sailed the Nile River, walked the Great Wall of China
and embarked on a zip line adventure in Costa Rica seven years ago
when was 85 years old. Sarah earned her pilot’s license at age 17 and
drop delivered The News-Press by airplane to Sanibel, Captiva, Useppa
and Boca Grande before there were bridges to the islands. Her love of
flying led her to become Chief Stewardess for Ozark Airlines, a job that
allowed her to travel the globe and live in Germany and Iran.
“Our theme of The Wisdom of Age – Honoring the Female Spirit is so
appropriate because each of these women has much to share from her
own life’s journey,” Hansen said.
Invitations to the Grande Dames Tea will be mailed in mid-February, at
which time guests may also register online at www.pacecenter.org/lee.
Admission is $50 per person. Table sponsorships are also available. Attendees
are encouraged to wear their favorite tea party hat.
This is the sixth year of the historic Grande Dames Tea. Previous honorees
have included Berne Davis, Eleanore Kleist and the late Barbara B.
Mann in 2009; Jeanne Bochette, Helen Hendry and Veronica Shoemaker
in 2010; Myra Daniels, Kathleen Nealon and Mimi Straub in 2011; Michel
Doherty, Mavis Miller and Anna “Boots” Tolles in 2012; and Thelma
Hodges, Helen O’Rourke McClary and Ettie Francis Walsh in 2013.
The Grande Dames Tea was originated by PACE Center for Girls of Lee
County to honor women who have played major roles in Southwest Florida
history through decades of service, philanthropy and helping others.
The agenda for the tea will include interaction between the PACE girls
and the three Grande Dames, in a question and answer format that Komnick
and Hansen said “is sure to be thought-provoking and poignant.”
Mei-Mei Chan, News-Press Media Group President and Publisher, will
once again serve as mistress of ceremonies.
● Margaret Sirianni of Fort Myers – Margaret is a former Lee
County School Board member and guidance counselor at Fort Myers High
School, where her husband, the late Sam Sirianni, was the high school
football coach for many years. While on the School Board, she supported
starting an International Baccalaureate program and a Center for the
Arts at Lee County high schools. She also has served as president of
FGCU’s Town & Gown, trustee of the Edison-Ford Winter Estates and a
member of the Woman’s Community Club and the Edison Pageant of
Light. Margaret now works on the annual golf scramble to raise funds for
scholarships in her late husband’s name.
The Grande Dames Tea honoring the three women will take place Friday,
April 4, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Broadway Palm at 1380 Colonial
Blvd. in Fort Myers.
Chair of the Grande Dames Tea is Cheryl Komnick, with Deanna Hansen
serving as co-chair. Both women also are members of the PACE Lee
Board of Directors.
“These three outstanding women come from varied backgrounds and
are sure to have some insightful advice for the audience and the PACE
girls,” said Komnick
156 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
PACE Center for Girls, Inc., is a non-residential delinquency prevention
program targeting the unique needs of girls, ages 12 to 18 years old,
facing challenges such as physical and sexual abuse, domestic violence,
substance abuse, foster care, neglect, death of a parent, family history
of incarceration and declining grades.
PACE is a Florida-based, not for profit organization, and the only statewide
prevention program for adolescent at-risk girls in the nation. In
the past year, the Lee County program provided 116 girls with education,
counseling, training and advocacy resulting in 94 percent having no
involvement with juvenile justice within six months of leaving PACE, 88
percent improving their academic performance and 80 percent remaining
in school or obtaining employment three years leaving PACE. As a
result, PACE reduces the significant long term costs associated with teen
pregnancy, substance abuse, unemployment and long term economic
dependency.
PACE accepts referrals from the juvenile justice system, the Department
of Children & Families, school personnel, community services agencies,
parents, family members, friends and self-referrals.
For information about the Grande Dames Tea or to become a sponsor,
please contact PACE Event Coordinator Sally Kee at (239) 470-7548.
www.pacecenter.org/lee

Barbara
BrownBy Susan Bennett
One word describes Barbara Norris Brown’s prescription for
staying young at heart – work. This perky 82-year-old continues
to work full-time at Hope Healthcare Services, where she
is the Development Coordinator and works with donors to the
not-for-profit organization.
“I love working. It gives me such energy to get up every
morning and know that I am needed in the workplace,” she
says.
A native of Fort Myers, Barbara can trace her family back at
least four generations in Lee County. Her father, the late Clayton
Norris, died when Barbara was just 10 years old, leaving
her mother to care for Barbara and her sister Margaret at a
time when Fort Myers was host to two wartime training bases.
The decision was made for Barbara and her sister to live with
their grandmother on Boca Grande, when the only way to
reach the island was by boat.
“My grandmother was my mentor. She taught music so she
taught me piano and voice. I learned self-confidence by getting
up and performing in front of others. She taught me that
there is nothing that I cannot do,” Barbara recalls. Barbara’s
grandfather was an accomplished musician and she was taught
to play the violin, and several other instruments. Barbara
played in the violin section of the Charleston Symphony Orchestra
when she was at boarding school in Charleston.
Barbara attended St Francis Xavier Catholic School in Fort
Myers, then boarding school in Charleston, S.C. for two years,
before returning home to graduate from Fort Myer High
School. Then it was off to Macon, Ga., and Wesleyan College
where Barbara earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and
history.
Upon her return to Fort Myers, Barbara started work at First
National Bank, married and had a daughter. After a number
of years as a housewife and an active Community volunteer
Barbara was divorced in 1974 and returned to work as a
banker. In the first of several serendipitous events in her life
she received a phone call from Mary Lee Mann, asking her to
become the first executive director of the Foundation for the
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall.
Barbara worked there for two years until she received another
unexpected telephone call from the late Bill Smith, Jr. He was
on the campaign committee for Hope Hospice to build an inpatient
facility and asked Barbara to organize a campaign kick-off
party. That party led to full-time work for Barbara, who now is
celebrating 20 years with Hope Healthcare Services.
Barbara has left her imprint throughout Southwest Florida over
the years as president of the Fort Myers Woman’s Community
Club, president of FGCU’s Town & Gown, chairman of the
Canterbury School Parents Association and as a member of the
Edison Pageant of Light board and the Fort Myers Centennial
Committee.
Her advice to young women is: “Focus on the most important
thing you have to do today – whether it’s putting food on the
table or getting a job, planning a party or chairing a committee.
FOCUS.”
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 157

Sarah
ScipleBy Susan Bennett
Few people have lived life on a grander scale than Sarah
Sciple, a 92-year-old Southwest Florida native who not only
has a bucket list, but has checked off everything on it.
That list includes jumping out of an airplane (25 times), sailing
the Nile River, climbing the tallest mountain in the Middle East,
seeing Big Ben, climbing the Eiffel Tower, walking the Great
Wall of China and much more.
“No regrets,” is how Sarah describes her adventurous life that
began in Arcadia, where she was born, and took her around
the globe before returning home to live in Matlacha.
Sarah grew up on Edgewood Avenue in Fort Myers, graduated
from Fort Myers High and spent summers sweeping out
hangars at Page Field to pay for her flying lessons. Earning
her pilot’s license at age 17, Sarah became part of the “Dawn
Patrol,” which drop-delivered The News-Press by airplane to
Sanibel, Captiva, Useppa and Boca Grande before there were
bridges to the islands.
Sarah worked at the Buckingham Air Field after college until
she passed the civil service exam. She was assigned work in
Washington, D.C. and New York City but longed to be on those
big airplanes she saw at LaGuardia in New York.
She applied to United Airlines to become a stewardess and the
next day was flown to Chicago to begin stewardess school.
She went on to become Chief Stewardess of Ozark Airlines.
Along the way, she met her husband, Carl, who was a colonel
in the U.S. Army. The couple lived in Stuttgart, Germany, then
Teheran in Iran. During that time, Sarah worked as director of
purchasing for Iranian Air.
She also continued to tick off items on her bucket list, like
digging for artifacts between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers,
skiing in the Swiss Alps, and climbing Mount Damavand.
When Carl retired, the couple moved to Dallas where Sarah
became a Girl Scout Troop leader, guiding a group of 12 girls
from third grade through high school. She also helped to
raise her brother’s daughter from age five until adulthood. She
still maintains contact with most of those Girl Scouts today.
The couple returned to Sarah’s hometown of Fort Myers in
1977 when Carl had a stroke and languished for 13 years until
his death. Sarah was 12 years his junior and began selling
jewelry for Peter Bradley Jewelers, who shared her love of
flying.
Sarah’s adventures were far from over even after her official
retirement in 1991. On her 65th birthday, she went bob
sledding in Switzerland and broke her leg in five places. But
that didn’t stop her from walking the Great Wall of China on
crutches a few weeks later – just one week before Tiananmen
Square. At age 85, she embarked on a zip line adventure in
Costa Rica.
Her advice to young women is: “If you want to do it – just go
ahead and do it. Don’t look back one day and wish you would
have dared.”
158 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Margaret
SirianniBy Susan Bennett
Being married to a celebrity requires a bright light of one’s own
– to complement the other, rather than disappear in a shadow.
Margaret Sirianni has it.
That must have been clear even before 1955, when as a college
student, majorette and soon-to-be Miss Marshall University
, the former Margaret Quintier met fellow student and
football player Sam Sirianni. They would soon be a team in
Fort Myers, where Sam became a legendary high school football
coach, mentor and friend – traits Margaret shares.
Drawn together by their Christian faith and their dedication
to young people, the West Virginians spent 44 years as
a couple. The game-changer was Sam’s cancer; he died in
2002. Still, “Mrs. Sam” is a badge Margaret, 77, wears proudly
along with her other titles, from president of Town & Gown for
FGCU, Edison-Ford Winter Estates trustee and member of the
Woman’s Community Club and the Edison Pageant of Light.
And every year since Sam died, she has been on the committee
and worked at the annual golf scramble that raises money
for scholarships in his name.
While losing Sam has been a great challenge, evidence of
their lives together remains in sight. She still wears the gold
cross he gave her on their second date. “It told me what kind
of man he was,” she says. That character attracted so many
lifelong friends to both.
Her nurturing role as mother to their children, Stephanie and
Sam Jr., and now a grandmother and great-grandmother, has
carried over to her work in education – locally and on the state
level, including as board chairwoman. “My philosophy has
always been home-school-community working together for the
betterment of the student,” she says.
She is an ace storyteller. But her tales usually center around
others; you must pry a little to find that as guidance counselor
at Fort Myers High School, she was instrumental in establishing
dual enrollment and advanced placement. On the school
board, she supported starting an International Baccalaureate
program and a Center for the Arts at Lee County high schools.
She played a vital role in technology, using community and
student input to help bring the district into the ’90s.
She grew up a tomboy, ready for a pick-up game of whatever
was in season. As a child she enjoyed sled-riding in winter.
In warmer months, her father drove her and her friends from
school, church and 4H club to football games and sometimes
to Little Beaver Lake in an old bus he bought and painted in
their school colors. But “not until we did our chores. We had
discipline.”
Parents Fred and Versa Quintier also taught generosity. “We
had good lives and were taught to work hard, help others and
never take anything for granted,” Margaret says.
They are values she’d pass along to the PACE girls, to whom
she advises: “Feel good about yourself. Know that people care.
Dream and dream big, because people will help you get there.
Then when you do, help others reach their dreams.”
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 159

Family Features
Photo courtesy of John Deere
Lawn Care Myths
The lawn is the backdrop to the home and essential to curb appeal.
While keeping a healthy lawn may seem straightforward
(mow, water, fertilize, etc.), don’t be fooled by some common
lawn care myths.
Myth #1: All grass is created equal.
Truth: Grass and their seeds come in many different varieties,
all with various maintenance, climate and mower requirements.
While some varieties require more sunlight, others may
be prone to certain diseases.
The type of grass and scope of land you need to mow will
determine how powerful of a lawn mower you’ll need. Large
lawns with thicker, tougher grass will require a mower with
higher horsepower and bigger, taller wheels. Varieties of grass
that have thinner blades and slower growth, or a small backyard
space, can be maintained easily with a lower horsepower
machine. Riding mowers like the John Deere 100 Series come
in a variety of models to fit different needs.
Myth #2: The shorter I cut the grass, the less often I need to
mow.
Truth: For the best quality turf, only remove one-third of the
grass blade with each mow. Shorter clippings break down more
easily, allowing some of the natural nitrogen to return to the
soil. If you cut too much at one time, the long clippings can
cause stress on the grass, inhibiting healthy growth.
Myth # 3: Bagging it is best.
Truth: Although bagging grass clippings is a common practice,
mulching is much more beneficial to your lawn. Mulching returns
essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, back to the soil.
As noted above, removing only a small amount of the grass
blade each time you mow produces shorter clippings that can
decompose more quickly and discourages the development of
fungal diseases. If you do decide to bag, be sure to compost
your clippings and reuse on site. Look for a lawn tractor, like
the John Deere X300 Select Series, which comes with a mulching
feature on the mowing deck, to help return the clippings
to the soil.
160 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
Family Features
Myth #4: Focus on the green.
Truth: While grass is what we see and tend to, the soil is the
most essential component for a healthy growth year-round.
Soil supplies the roots with necessary nutrients, which in turn
yield a beautiful lawn. Consider taking a soil sample to your local
university extension program or landscape supplier for soil
analysis. This will help determine the best type of fertilizer to
use throughout the year.
Myth #5: Keep a consistent mowing pattern.
Truth: It’s easy to fall into a mowing routine, but frequently
cutting grass in the same direction can mat down the turf and
inhibit growth. By varying the mowing pattern, you will reduce
strain on the turf and encourage a healthier, more beautiful
lawn.
Myth # 6: You’re off duty in the winter.
Truth: Many people think grass “dies” off in the winter so you
can take a break from lawn care; however, this is the best time
to care for your equipment. Complete mower maintenance
such as adding fuel stabilizer, blade sharpening and replacing
missing or damaged parts and your mower will be prepped and
ready come springtime.
Aside from practicing the proper mowing techniques, having
the right equipment is one of the most important factors in
maintaining a green and vibrant lawn. The proper type and size
for your lawn and lifestyle will help you mow more efficiently so
you can spend more time enjoying and less time maintaining
your lawn.
Visit www.johndeere.com/residential to learn which type of riding
lawn equipment is right for your yard.

‘The Hemingway’
a new Key West Style Home
By Diane VanArsdale
Aubuchon Homes, a division of The Aubuchon Team of Companies,
is a custom home builder in beautiful Cape Coral,
Florida, a popular vacation destination for Europeans and
northerners. Their newest floor plan, ‘The Hemingway,’
brings the laid back feel of the islands and Key West to
life in beautiful Cape Coral, Florida. If you are looking for
natural light, tropical breezes, and low maintenance, this is
the home for you.
Inspired by the relaxed and whimsical atmosphere commonly
found in the Florida Keys, this custom home sets the
stage for a perfect day as the sliding glass doors open to
magnificent unobstructed views allowing the outdoors to
come in. Just like magic, the home is transformed into an
oasis for you to escape and unwind.
The light and airy open great room serves as the focal
point with a functioning cupola allowing tropical breezes to
fill the home with windows that open with a simple touch of
a button. The kitchen and dining areas reflect vintage Key
West with a simple, casual elegance. The kitchen island
and oversized window in the dining room, like so many features
of the home, are designed to take full advantage of
the waterfront views.
This home offers countless architectural details and high
end finishes, from wainscoting design elements, to custom
mosaic tiles in the foyer mimicking the homeowner’s actual
footprints. In the master bath, check out the molded
ultra glass piece in the shape of waves featuring a unique
underwater scene, conveying a feeling of the majestic sea.
The flooring in the home is made of porcelain plank tile,
and emulates a true vintage Key West style.
Look for a cottage style exterior installed with Hardie Plank
material, a metal roof, a unique decorative pergola, a cozy
front porch area complete with rockers, and a whimsical
tiki hut next to the water. See the unique blue Hardie Plank
ceilings reflect an old Key West wives’ tale of helping to
keep the bugs away.
The color palette consists of an array of neutrals, blues,
greens and everything in between. A mix of materials and
finishes were strategically selected for each space to create
a comfortable, yet refined atmosphere. This home is a
great example of quality luxury with a casual, comfortable
feel.
162 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Find out what our in-house team of architectural designers,
interior designers, and team of professionals can create for
you. With expert advice from each team member at your
side, we will walk you through the home building process
making it one of the most rewarding and exciting times of
your life. All you have to do is imagine...and we'll take it
from there.
Cape Coral is SW Florida’s” Venice” with hundreds of miles
of canals and waterfront properties, offering amazing
views! And with quick access to Caribbean-like islands,
i.e. Sanibel, Captiva, Matlacha, Pine Island, and Fort Myers
Beach, it doesn’t get much better than this! When you’re
ready to escape from the cold and build your dream home
in this tropical wonderland, contact Caprice Krumsick,
239.677.7141, or ckrumsick@teamaubuchon.com.
Caprice Krumsick is a German native who lives
and works in beautiful Cape Coral as a Realtor
for Miloff Aubuchon Realty Group. Her specialty
is helping out-of-state and out-of-country clients
find or build their Florida dream home. As a result
of her success, she now has many happy clients
who are excited to be living the lifestyle they have
always desired.
www.TEAMAUBUCHON.com
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 163

Bringing
the
Outside
Indoors
Family Features
When the weather conditions are just right, a relaxing evening
spent on the porch or patio is perfect for enjoying good company
and the beauty of the outside world. Wouldn’t it be nice to
enjoy these comforts regardless of the season?
Bring the rejuvenating, refreshing and calming effects of nature
into your personal space with a few simple touches. The best
place for incorporating these organic elements is the space
closest to your patio or outdoor space. Let this area serve as
a transitional space where the outside world connects with the
comforts of your interior.
Here are a few tips to make your outside world an extension of
your home:
Choose Natural Materials
For chairs, sofas, rugs, pillows and other décor, choose natural
patterns, textures and fibers. Pair materials like hemp, rattan,
bamboo, wicker and jute, with softer textures, such as cottons,
velvet and velour for added dimension.
JELD-WEN W-4500, which comes in a variety of different colors,
finishes and is available in 2-, 3- or 4-panel configurations.
Add Natural Elements to Décor
The right decorative tchotchkes can evoke the serenity of nature
within your space. For a rustic look, add dried flowers, pinecones,
rocks, wood and straw. For a seaside touch, use sea
shells, starfish and jars of sand for a coastal inspiration. If you
lack space to scatter throughout the room, place these items in
a large decorative bowl and use as a centerpiece.
Frame It
The best way to incorporate your favorite natural nuances is to
photograph it. Do you have photographs from that trip to the
Grand Canyon or Glacier National Park? Display those beautiful
memories and scenery. Dust off your favorite old photos and
place them in neutral-toned frames to set throughout the space.
Light Up the Room
Nothing pleases the senses like natural light, so be sure to rid
windows and doorways of heavy drapery and other barriers.
Bring this beautiful resource inside by adding a retrofit folding
patio door, such as the JELD-WEN® W-4500, which uses
floor-supported technology for a simpler fit into an existing door
opening.
Choose Natural Colors
Pick chairs, sofas, coffee tables and buffet pieces that are white
or ivory. These light colors will make the outdoor tints of greens,
blues and browns pop. For the woodsy look, choose faux bois
upholstery, a textile pattern that mimics the grain of wood.
Spruce Up the View
Add trees or other lush landscapes to serve as your focal point
when you look outside. Attach window boxes and plant flowers
and shrubbery in colors that complement your décor. Add trees
or other lush landscapes to serve as your focal point when you
look outside. Truly access your serene views with a wider expanse
and with ease by adding a folding patio door, such as the
www.jeld-wen.com
164 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Enhance your pool with rock water features.
Waterfalls - Stack and Veneered Stone on Spas - Coping - Decks - Planters & Fire Pits - Steps - Walls - Driveways & Patios
Wet-Rock Innovations
(941) 237-1626 wetrockinnovations@gmail.com
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 165

Laundry Room
Transformations
When decorating a home, there are endless possibilities
to make each room a chic oasis. The laundry
room can be upgraded to exude personality and
design flair so it becomes a more enjoyable place to
spend time in.
From the color palette or patterns on the walls to
the floors under foot and everything in between,
decorating your laundry room with things that inspire
productivity and tranquility can transform your
tired, dull space into a room that feels luxurious,
welcoming and relaxing.
Tips to Add Lux to Your Laundry Room
To help get you started on the road to re-design,
Electrolux has teamed up with Design Expert Camille
Styles, founder of the popular lifestyle blog
www.CamilleStyles.com, to offer these words of
advice:
• Begin your design overhaul with beautiful, stylish
appliances – like the sleek, high performance Front
Load washer and dryer set from Electrolux. These
eye-catching machines marry a sleek form with
high-performance function, including the fastest
combined wash and dry time out there, with a 15
minute wash time and 14 minute dry time.
• Designate specific areas of the space for different
tasks like folding laundry, ironing and polishing
shoes. Keep all the necessary supplies for each
task nearby so everything is easily accessible when
needed.
166 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
Family Features
• Transform laundry room supplies into decorative
objects by storing them in refillable clear containers.
Use labels to identify what is in each.
• Space that is uncluttered is always more inviting,
leading to enhanced productivity and a sense
of calm. Make use of cabinets, woven baskets and
lidded containers to keep items like serving pieces,
craft supplies, gift wrap and vases well out of sight.
• If space permits, installing a refrigerator in the
laundry room is incredibly useful. When entertaining,
a well-stocked second refrigerator will allow
you to turn your laundry room into a party prep and
staging area. It’s a great place to store larger items
and to keep beverages and desserts at the perfect
temperature, ready to serve at any moment.
Blending simple design tips with functional storage
ideas and high performance appliances will find you
well on your way to creating an inviting space you
are happy to spend time in.
www.electroluxappliances.com

Winner of Gasparilla Poster Design
Though Gasparilla has come and gone, for those
looking for a unique way to commemorate the
2014 pirate invasion, the time is now as the winner
of the 2014 Gasparilla Pirate Poster Project
has been announced.
Now in its third year, the annual contest invites
designers and Gasparilla enthusiasts to submit
poster design concepts, one of which is named
winner, printed professionally and sold. The 2014
contest drew both local and international submissions.
The winning design was submited by Dominic
Mcan and depicts the most valued possesions of
all pirates including a treasure map, sword, compass
and gold coins, with cleverly hidden text
announcing event details like date and location.
The team behind the Gasparilla Pirate Poster
Project (from Creative Motion, Inc.) is now in the
process of printing 100 limited edition posters
featuring Mcan’s design using a printing press
located right here in Florida. They are available
for purchase (as are posters from previous years)
at www.GasparillaPiratePoster.com. More than
30 pre-orders for the 2014 poster have already
been placed.
“I want to thank all those who took the time to imagine, create and submit a concept and offer a big congratulations
to Dominic on his winning design.” said Nick Gulick, principle of Creative Motion and founder of the Gasparilla
Pirate Poster project. “We hope others are as excited as we are to add it to their collection.”
www.GasparillaPiratePoster.com
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 167

Inspired Lighting
Whether you’re reminiscing about a romantic
getaway or dreaming of a future foray to the City
of Light, you can recreate the elegance and joie
de vivre of Paris in your own corner of the world.
Vignettes of French life provide delightful inspiration
for handmade crafts and decor that bring
the mystique and romance of Paris to life. Pull inspiration
from the sights and sounds that define
the city, such as the softly muted illumination of
a cozy French bistro.
Strips of fabric are tied and knotted around wire
lampshade frames to create soft stripes of color
and texture in this project for Fabric Strip Lamp
Shades, from the crafting experts at Jo-Ann Fabric
and Craft Stores. Whether you hang them
indoors or out, these whimsical pieces create a
soft and romantic ambiance you’ll love.
Family Features
Fabric Strip Lamp Shades
Crafting Time: Weekend project
Skill Level: Some experience necessary
Supplies and Tools:
Lampshade
Fabrics in a variety of colors and textures (approximately 2-3 yards)
Rotary cutter, cutting mat and ruler
Scissors
Spray paint to match fabric
Cover for work surface
Lamp cord set, turn knob socket and loops for hanging (available at hardware stores)
1. Remove any fabric or paper from the lampshade so only the wire frames are exposed.
2. Spray paint lampshade frames. Let dry.
3. Cut fabric on the bias into 2" strips.
4. Starting at the top of lampshade frame, tie a knot with the end of one fabric strip onto frame. Wrap fabric around the
top of frame until completely covered, knotting strips together when each strip is close to ending.
5. Tie another strip of fabric to the knot tail and wrap under and around the front of the closest vertical wire on the frame.
Go to the next vertical wire, wrap and continue around all vertical wires working around and down the lampshade. Tie
extra knots throughout to add interest. At the bottom of the frame, tie a knot to finish.
6. Tie another strip to the knot tail and wrap around the bottom until the entire frame is covered. Tie knot to finish.
7. Trim all knot tails throughout.
8. Attach cord set, knob and hanging loops as instructed.
168 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
www.joann.com

Looking For A Drop-Dead Gorgeous Swimming
Pool That’s Also Maintenance-Free?
Let us send you our FREE “Pool Idea Guide” DVD. It’s loaded with photos, ideas and
friendly advice to make sure you make the best decision possible.
Plus, we’ll send you the Latest Report On “Zero-Maintenance” Swimming Pools.
Pool Buyer’s
Idea Guide
12410 Tamiami Trail
Punta Gorda, FL 33955
(888) 458-3701
www.FountainPoolsWF.com
Commercial License #0057098
As one of the leading pool builders in southwest Florida, we’ve designed,
built and consulted on well over 2,000 swimming pools. We specialize in
designs that are both unique and a delight to own. But we do more than just
swimming pools:
• Renovations
• New Construction
• Pools, Spas & Water Features
• Pool Repairs & Service
• Safety Inspections
• Screen Enclosures
• Fences & Railings
• Sunrooms
• Hot Tubs by Sun Belt
• Lifetime Guarantee at Every Pool
www.FountainPoolsWF.com
Visit Our Showroom at 12410 Tamiami
Trail, Punta Gorda, FL 33955
Or call
888-458-3701
With a $5 million dollar bond rating, a state-of-the-art showroom facility, and a long history of highly satisfied customers,
you know you’re talking to a builder you can trust. Whether you’re looking for better health, more living space,
a prettier backyard, or just a private place to relax, you can trust Fountain Pools to make your dreams come true.

RADIANCE
Photographer
Creative Director
VincentGotti
Niccanor
www.thecandyfactorystudio.com
170 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Model: CLAUDIA GALLO
Courtesy of STARS MODEL MANAGEMENT
Hair and Make-Up: OZZIE MENDOZA
Stylist: ERIN ECKERT
Stylist Assistant: KELLI DALEY
Lighting Director: SCOTT NOBLES
Photographer's Assistant: CHRISTIAN THOMAS
Creative Director: NICCANOR
Photographer: VINCENT GOTTI
Fashion Designer: ANA CECILIA ORTEGA
Jewelry Provided by: ERIC ECKERT
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 171

Model: CLAUDIA GALLO
Courtesy of STARS MODEL MANAGEMENT
Hair and Make-Up: OZZIE MENDOZA
Stylist: ERIN ECKERT
Stylist Assistant: KELLI DALEY
Lighting Director: SCOTT NOBLES
Photographer's Assistant: CHRISTIAN THOMAS
Creative Director: NICCANOR
Photographer: VINCENT GOTTI
Jewelry Provided by: ERIC ECKERT
172 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Model: CLAUDIA GALLO
Courtesy of STARS MODEL MANAGEMENT
Hair and Make-Up: OZZIE MENDOZA
Stylist: ERIN ECKERT
Stylist Assistant: KELLI DALEY
Lighting Director: SCOTT NOBLES
Photographer's Assistant: CHRISTIAN THOMAS
Creative Director: NICCANOR
Photographer: VINCENT GOTTI
Fashion Designer: SHERRI HILL
Jewelry Provided by: ERIC ECKERT
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 173

Model: CLAUDIA GALLO
Courtesy of STARS MODEL MANAGEMENT
Hair and Make-Up: OZZIE MENDOZA
Stylist: ERIN ECKERT
Stylist Assistant: KELLI DALEY
Lighting Director: SCOTT NOBLES
Photographer's Assistant: CHRISTIAN THOMAS
Creative Director: NICCANOR
Photographer: VINCENT GOTTI
Fashion Designer: MARIA VELAZQUEZ
Jewelry Provided by: ERIC ECKERT
174 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Model: CLAUDIA GALLO
Courtesy of STARS MODEL MANAGEMENT
Hair and Make-Up: OZZIE MENDOZA
Stylist: ERIN ECKERT
Stylist Assistant: KELLI DALEY
Lighting Director: SCOTT NOBLES
Photographer's Assistant: CHRISTIAN THOMAS
Creative Director: NICCANOR
Photographer: VINCENT GOTTI
Fashion Designer: ANA CECILIA ORTEGA
Jewelry Provided by: ERIC ECKERT
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 175

Model: CLAUDIA GALLO
Courtesy of STARS MODEL MANAGEMENT
Hair and Make-Up: OZZIE MENDOZA
Stylist: ERIN ECKERT
Stylist Assistant: KELLI DALEY
Lighting Director: SCOTT NOBLES
Photographer's Assistant: CHRISTIAN THOMAS
Creative Director: NICCANOR
Photographer: VINCENT GOTTI
Fashion Designer: SHERRI HILL
Jewelry Provided by: ERIC ECKERT
176 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Model: CLAUDIA GALLO
Courtesy of STARS MODEL MANAGEMENT
Hair and Make-Up: OZZIE MENDOZA
Stylist: ERIN ECKERT
Stylist Assistant: KELLI DALEY
Lighting Director: SCOTT NOBLES
Photographer's Assistant: CHRISTIAN THOMAS
Creative Director: NICCANOR
Photographer: VINCENT GOTTI
Jewelry Provided by: ERIC ECKERT
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 177

ItalianWine
series
Serving classic Italian cuisine, Angelina’s Ristorante features
a 30-foot wine tower with more than 4,000 bottles of wine
with a focus on Italian wines, selected by the on-site sommelier.
Committed to excellence, the 210-seat restaurant is ideal
for a romantic meal or a private party for 50. Private meeting
rooms are equipped to handle audiovisual presentations with
state-of-the-art technology and customized menus.
Winner of the Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence
for 2012 and 2013 (the only restaurant in Lee County),
Angelina’s extensive wine list includes popular, affordable
(53 percent are less than $100), sought-after vintages and
exclusive labels from around the world with a special focus
on Italian producers. The restaurant was also recently named
an OpenTable 2013 Diner’s Choice Award winner for the Top
100 Restaurants with a Most Notable Wine List (the only one
in Southwest Florida).
178 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Angelina’s Ristorante will feature an Italian wine series through May.
The exclusive wine experiences will explore Italy’s diverse and rich culinary traditions
through delectable courses and perfectly paired wines created by Manager and
Sommelier Angela Morales and Executive Chef Sarah Grueneberg.
March 12 The culinary voyage continues to get
interesting as we venture to the “Heartland of Italy.”
Emilia Romagna is home to the most widely known
and loved essential ingredients of Italian food, such
as Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma and
Aceto Balsamico tradizionale (balsamic vinegar). These
simple, key ingredients and the artisans of this region
are the center of this four-course festa (Italian feast).
6:30 p.m., $95 per person
March 26 A special farm to table lunch departing
Angelina’s at 11:30 a.m. on a luxury bus to Rosy
Tomorrows Heritage Farm in North Fort Myers. The
lunch will include several courses picked on-site that
day with select wine pairings. $95 per person
April 9 Explore the soil rich region of “Campania:
Napoli and Monte Vesuvius” in the south of Italy
with a four-course dinner. Famous for the rich volcanic
soil surrounding Monte Vesuvius, Campania produces
the best tomatoes, interesting grape verticals and is
the birthplace of pizza. The cuisine of Naples, Italy,
seafood delicacies, iconic pizzas, white wines from
the coastal areas and robust reds from Taurasi will be
brought to life in its sister city Naples, Florida. 6:30
p.m., $75 per person
April 23 Taste your way through “The Spice
Trade in Italy: Venice, Sicily and Sardinia.” Five courses
and wine pairings will explore the influence of the
15th century spice trade on Italian history and cuisine.
Enjoy a true taste of history with some of the oldest
wines in the world from these regions. 6:30 p.m., $105
per person
May 7 “Grand Finale & Goodbye.” The final
dinner of the series celebrates the season of eating
and drinking. We are keeping this theme a secret for
now but be sure to stay tuned for more information.
6:30 p.m., $145 per person
The wine series pricing does not include tax and gratuity. Space is limited and reservations must be made in advance at
239-390-3187.
www.angelinasofbonitasprings.com
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 179

From
Nurse To
Patient
Family Features
Photos courtesy of Getty Images
Despite her career as a scrub nurse for general cancer
surgeries, a personal diagnosis of cancer still came as
a surprise.
“It was a surreal moment to be on the other side of the
surgery table and faced with a cancer diagnosis,” said
Sheila Brake, who was diagnosed seven years ago with
chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a common type
of blood cancer. “It gave me a real appreciation for the
confusion, fear and anxiety my patients feel at their
time of vulnerability.”
Many people confronted with a new cancer diagnosis
face unfamiliar medical terminology and treatment
decisions. Even as a scrub nurse, Sheila faced similar
fears.
“It’s nearly impossible at first to get your head around
the reality of a cancer diagnosis,” Sheila said. “I found
it was crucial to educate myself about my disease,
the new terms, and to have an open, trusting dialogue
with my oncologist to figure out the best treatment
plan for me.”
CLL, the most common type of adult leukemia, is a
chronic disease that typically affects older adults.
Symptoms vary and may take years to appear.1,2,3
“I was lucky that I didn’t happen to have pre-existing
medical conditions,” she said. “In my case, we decided
on the ‘watch-and-wait’ approach, where no active
treatment was actually given until the disease and
symptoms got worse.”
Almost three years later, Sheila initiated her treatment
regimen and feels lucky she was able to continue her
work in the surgery room and day-to-day life alongside
her husband and two dogs until she reached remission.
Since CLL is chronic and incurable, many people require
additional treatment due to the return of cancerous
cells.1 Sheila said that while the possibility of
relapse weighs on her sometimes, she has hope for the
future.
“My oncologist told me researchers are working on
even more therapies, which is amazing and will give
folks more options,” she said.
CLL Facts:
• A cancer that starts in the blood and bone marrow.3
• More than 4,500 deaths are expected in the U.S. during
2014.4
• The average age of diagnosis is 71, and is rarely
seen in people under age 40.2
For more information about CLL and other blood cancers
like non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, talk with your doctor
or visit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society website
at http://www.lls.org or the Lymphoma Research
Foundation website at http://www.lymphoma.org.
References
1. Dighiero G and Hamblin T. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. The Lancet. 2008; 371:1017-1029.
2. National Cancer Institute. SEER Stat Fact Sheet: Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. http://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/leuks.html. Accessed January 2, 2014.
3. Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Disease Information & Support. http://www.lls.org/#/diseaseinformation/leukemia/chroniclymphocyticleukemia/. Accessed January 2, 2014.
4. Siegel, R., Ma, J., Zou, Z., & Jemal A. (2014). Cancer Statistics, 2014. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, 1-22. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.3322/caac.21208/pdf. Accessed January 7, 2014.
180 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

EMPLOYEES SAVE 86 LIVES
Employees of SalusCare, Inc., the region’s leading provider of treatment
for mental health and substance use disorders, showed their
support for helping others February 12 by donating enough blood
to save 86 lives.
Employees donated 43 pints of blood in the one-day blood drive
conducted by Lee Memorial Health System bloodmobiles stationed
at three SalusCare locations. Each pint of blood may save two
lives, according to officials.
“Our employees work every day to assist individuals and families in
our community in many ways. Giving back to the community and
being part of the solution is a way of life for our employees, and
is another example of their investment in helping our friends and
neighbors,” said SalusCare CEO Kevin B. Lewis.
This is the third year of the blood drive, which previously was a
challenge between Lee Mental Health and Southwest Florida Addiction
Services. The two non-profit agencies merged last summer to
become SalusCare, Inc.
The blood donations will be used at Cape Coral Hospital, Gulf Coast
Medical Center, HealthPark and Lee Memorial Hospital, which houses
the only Trauma Center within a five-county area. Blood also
benefits patients at the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest
Florida, The Rehabilitation Hospital and the Regional Cancer Center.
Officials said donated blood has a shelf life of 42 days so it must be
continuously replenished to meet the need at area hospitals.
For more information, call 239-275-3222
By Susan Bennett
SalusCare Chief Administrative Officer David Winters relaxes after giving blood
www.SalusCareFlorida.org.
SalusCare CEO Kevin B. Lewis with Bloodmobile technicians George Comtois and
Roxanne O’Rourke
Jabneel Torres and Becky Joldersma of SalusCare’s Vince Smith Center Campus
complete paperwork to give blood
SalusCare Director of Accounting Ronne Apicella and Bloodmobile technician
Emanuel Thomas
Bloodmobile technician Roxanne O’Rourke and SalusCare Clinician Keith Staple
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 181

Photo courtesy of Getty Images
Family Features
There are important realities every American must know
about long-term care. Long-term care is more expensive than
most people think. And, most importantly, the cost of care is
usually paid for out of savings and income.
About 70 percent of people turning 65 can expect to need
some kind of long-term care as they age. A number of public
programs, including Medicare and Medicaid, may help pay for
some long-term care services under certain circumstances.
However, each program has specific rules about what services
are covered, how long you can receive benefits, whether
or not you qualify for benefits, and how much you have to
pay in out-of-pocket costs. To accurately plan for your longterm
care needs, it is very important to know the facts about
what may or may not be covered.
Medicare focuses on acute care costs
Medicare covers medically necessary care and focuses on
medical acute care, such as doctor visits, drugs and hospital
182 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
stays. If very specific conditions are met, Medicare will help
pay for all or a portion of a short stay in a skilled nursing
facility, hospice care or home health care.
Medicare does not cover custodial long-term care services.
These services and supports help people perform Activities of
Daily Living (ADLs) that are non-medical, such as getting in
and out of bed, walking, bathing, dressing, eating, and bowel
and bladder management.
Medicaid only available if income and assets are low enough
Medicaid is a joint federal and state government program
that helps people with low income and assets pay for some
or all of their health care bills. It covers medical care, longterm
care services in nursing homes and long-term care
services provided at home. Rules about who is eligible for
Medicaid benefits and what services are covered are based
on federal requirements, but states have considerable leeway
in how they operate their programs.

To be eligible for Medicaid, you must meet certain requirements,
including having income and assets that do not
exceed the levels used by your state. The Medicaid eligibility
process considers the value of your home to make sure
it is under the state set limit, your assets and your income.
Documentation from your financial institutional “looking
back” five years will be required. Once your state determines
you are financially eligible for Medicaid, the state will
conduct a functional assessment to determine whether
you are disabled enough to qualify for long-term care
services. Your state Medicaid Assistance office is the
best source for information about how to qualify for
Medicaid in your state and if you qualify for long-term
care services.
• $205 per day or $6,235 per month for a semi-private room
in a nursing home
• $229 per day or $6,965 per month for a private room in a
nursing home
Calculate the cost of care in your area by visiting http://longtermcare.gov/costs-how-to-pay/costs-of-care-in-your-state/.
If you receive Medicaid coverage for long-term care
services, federal law requires states to recover the
amount Medicaid spent on your behalf from your estate
after you die. Most states recover the cost of long-term
care services.
Paying out-of-pocket for care
If you have enough income and savings, you will need
to pay for long-term care services on your own, from
your incomes, savings and, possibly, the equity in your
home. Many people believe wrongly the medical insurance
or disability insurance they currently have will
pay for all or much of their long-term care. In general,
health insurance covers only very limited and specific
types of long-term care. Disability policies serve to
replace income and, as such, do not cover long-term
care at all.
Long-term care insurance is designed to cover longterm
services and supports. Policies reimburse policyholders
a daily amount (up to a pre-selected limit) for
services to assist them with activities of daily living,
such as bathing, dressing or eating. You can then select
a range of care options and benefits that allow you to
get the services you need, where you need them. If
you are in poor health or already receiving long-term
care services, you may not qualify for long-term care
insurance.
For more information about additional methods of paying
for long-term care, including reverse mortgages,
annuities and trusts, visit www.longtermcare.gov.
Calculating the cost
Because there are many kinds of long-term care
services and supports, there is a wide range of costs
depending on the type of care needed, duration of care
needed, provider you choose and where you live. Some
average costs for long-term care in the United States
(in 2010) were:
• $19 per hour for homemaker services
• $21 per hour for a home health aide
• $67 per day for services in an adult day health care
center
• $3,293 per month for care in an assisted living facility
(for a one-bedroom unit)

Start
Your Wellness Routine
Photos courtesy of Getty Images
Family Features
If the decadent dishes and busy schedules of the holiday
season have set back your efforts towards a healthy lifestyle,
fear not. With the right plan in place, it’s easy to get back on
track, re-energized and refocused for the year ahead.
Shorter days and colder weather may seem to heighten the
desire to indulge in comfort foods, just as much as it can
lessen the motivation to take part in physical activity, like hitting
the gym or taking an afternoon stroll.
Health expert, author and registered dietitian, Patricia Bannan,
shares a few simple changes to help re-charge your
routine and get excited, no matter what the thermometer
reads outside:
Set realistic expectations
If you haven’t been running in months and plan to jump
on the treadmill tomorrow, it’s important to take your new
workout in stride. Having high aspirations for your health is
a wonderful thing, but there’s nothing wrong with starting
small. Setting achievable goals – such as jogging or walking
for a certain amount of time each day – will help to keep you
working toward the goal of running a10K in the long term.
Supply your body with quality nutrition
Beyond getting in your required fruits, vegetables, lean proteins,
healthy fats and whole grains through a balanced diet,
taking a high quality supplement can help bridge any nutrient
gaps and help you get what your body may be lacking. Bannan
recommends Adult Gummies Energy‡ B12 from Nature
Made ® , the #1 pharmacist recommended brand of letter
vitamins. 1 Vitamin B12 supports cellular energy production
by helping the body convert food into energy, and gummies
offer an enjoyable way to take your vitamins.†
Swap out ingredients
Healthier alternatives exist for all of your favorite dishes. If
you crave a hearty bowl of chili, switch out ground beef for
a leaner variety of ground turkey. Use whole-grain pasta in
your favorite Italian dishes or whole-grain breads for sandwiches.
These changes are small, but can have a big impact
on your overall nutrition when put into practice.
By incorporating a few of these simple tips into your daily
wellness routine, you’ll be on the path to a healthier new
you.
Buddy up
By now you’ve likely commiserated with friends about the
lapse in your health and wellness goals. This is the perfect
opportunity to ask someone to partner up in your healthy
pursuits. Ask friends, family, neighbors or co-workers if they
are interested in joining a gym, taking a boot camp class, or
participating in a healthy cooking course.
184 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
1 Based on US News & World Report - Pharmacy Times Survey
‡Vitamin B12 supports cellular energy production in the body.†
†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

aising funds to help cancer patients
Florida
Cancer
Specialists
Elaine Miller had to stop working when she was diagnosed with
metastatic Stage 4 breast cancer last February. Although she had
some money saved for emergencies and was covered by health
insurance, by summer she was having trouble paying her bills.
similar situation while being treated for Stage 3 cancer, “When
the subject of finances came up I told them I was struggling and
they referred me to the foundation. They paid my rent for the
month. It was a big help at the time.”
The foundation assists qualified patients, like Miller and Spencer,
with non-medical expenses, such as rent or mortgage, utility
and telephone payments and transportation costs. Much of the
money is donated by the physicians and staff members of Florida
Cancer Specialists.
Now the foundation is reaching out to the public in an effort to
expand the help it can offer. On April 5, the foundation will hold
its inaugural fundraiser. Rio Carnival is the festive, colorful South
American FUNraiser, featuring live dance performances, a silent
auction, dinner, music and dancing.
Leading the charge for the April event is chair Jackie Bearse, an
advisory board member of the foundation. The Naples resident
is fortunate to have been successfully treated for both breast and
lung cancer, and realized while receiving treatment there were
many people who struggled with bills during their battle with
cancer.
“I saw so many people who didn’t have transportation or weren’t
able to pay for basic necessities,” Bearse said. “When you are
being treated for cancer, you don’t need the extra stress of worrying
about finances, too.”
Shelly Glenn, Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute’s
chief marketing and sales officer, hopes this will become an annual
event that will grow and, with it, the foundation’s ability to
help those who are fighting cancer.
Dr. Mark Rubin
That’s when one of the financial counselors at Florida Cancer
Specialists & Research Institute told her about the oncology
practice’s charitable arm, Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation,
which provides financial assistance for non-medical bills to qualified
cancer patients.
“They helped me with my mortgage that month,” said Miller, “and
put me in touch with three or four other groups that were able
to help me as well. It took the pressure off for a little while.”
Peter Spencer, an Army veteran who completed three tours of
duty in Vietnam and now lives in Cape Coral, found himself in a
Dr. Mark Rubin, a board-certified oncologist and hematologist,
said, “We’d like for everyone to experience this night in true
sharing of heart and generosity for the less fortunate in our
community. We would love for you to join the members of our
medical community, friends and neighbors, patients and former
patients and their families, for a fun-filled night for a very serious
cause.”
The event begins at 6 p.m. at The Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort
located at 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road in Naples. Tickets are $500
per person; underwriting and sponsorship opportunities are
available.
For Rio Carnival tickets, sponsorships or additional information,
call 855-585-5433
www.foundation.flcancer.com/rio-carnival-funraiser
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 185

Photo courtesy of Getty Images
Eye Health
Understanding the benefits of regular exams
Family Features
You head to the doctor for a fever or a physical and to the
dentist for a sore tooth or a cleaning, but what about your
eye health? If words on the page seem a bit out of focus,
or your night vision isn’t as sharp as it used to be, do you
head to the eye doctor? You may not, but you should.
Hidden health clues uncovered
You’ve probably heard that the eyes are windows to the
soul. While this may be true, your eyes also reveal a number
of important clues about your overall health. Did you
know that early signs of health conditions can be detected
by your eye doctor during an eye exam? Interestingly,
through an eye exam, your doctor can detect conditions
like diabetes years before you show signs of the disease.
In addition, eye exams can identify both eye and general
health conditions, such as:
• Macular degeneration
• Glaucoma
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Heart Disease
Understanding your vision coverage options
“Good health starts with wellness care, and that includes
a thorough eye exam to detect signs that threaten a person’s
sight or whole body health,” said Leonard J. Mendez,
O.D., M.S., and doctor with VSP, a not-for-profit vision service
provider. “Families and individuals can enroll directly
in affordable individual vision plans that cover eye exams,
lenses and frames.”
186 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
In an age where medical insurance makes most of us picture
red tape and expensive premiums, vision insurance
is affordable and easy to obtain. Even if your employer
doesn’t offer vision insurance, you can purchase an individual
plan, like the one Dr. Mendez mentions, for approximately
$200 a year – and you can do it online in
minutes. VSP, for example, offers individual plans nationwide
for less than $17 a month. And when you consider
that frames alone cost more than $200, individual vision
insurance starting under $17 a month that includes an
eye exam, frames, lenses plus other benefits is a genuine
value.
Make an appointment for better sight
What can you expect from an eye exam? If you immediately
picture a chart with rows of letters in different sizes,
you’re not far off the mark. The Snellen Chart is still used
in an eye exam, along with a few other simple procedures
used to evaluate your health. These include the use of
light and various lenses to determine your eyewear prescription,
a puff of air in each eye to detect glaucoma,
dilating drops to allow for a better look at the inside of
your eyes and a biomicroscope to get a magnified view of
your eye. Once your doctor determines your prescription
and eye health, it’s time to shop for contact lenses or the
perfect frames that complete your individual style.
So, the next time you catch yourself squinting at the computer
screen, know that there are affordable options that
make an eye exam possible.
www.givevsp.com

FLORIDA TRAFFIC INFO ALL THE TIME
CALL 511
TOLL FREE
VISIT
FL511.COM
FOLLOW FL511
ON TWITTER
FLORIDA 511
FREE APPS
PERSONALIZED
SERVICES
A toll-free resource of the Florida Department of Transportation (standard mobile phone minutes, text message and data charges may apply)
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 187

Good
Oral
Health
Habits
Family Features
You may wonder whether it’s important
to take care of your child's
first teeth, which will fall out in
early childhood. However, healthy
adult teeth start with healthy
teeth during childhood. That’s why
starting infants off with good oral
care can help protect their teeth
for decades to come.
A baby’s 20 primary teeth are already present in the jaw
at birth. Baby teeth that begin coming through the gums
around six months help set the stage for future smiles by
keeping space in the jaw for adult teeth. The American
Dental Association recommends that parents take children
to a dentist no later than their first birthday and then at
intervals recommended by their dentist.
To help ensure you are well prepared to provide your little
one a lifetime of good dental health, the experts at Ameritas
offer this information about the leading oral health
concerns for youngsters:
Cavities. Early childhood caries (cavities) is the number one
chronic disease affecting young children. It is five times
more common than asthma and seven times more common
than hay fever. Tooth pain keeps many children home from
school or distracts them from learning.
Consumption of sugary foods, soda, juice or energy drinks
increases the risk for tooth decay and gum disease, so
minimizing these items is an important aspect of dental
health. It’s also important to always brush teeth twice daily
for two minutes and floss once a day.
Another option to protect children’s teeth is sealants, which
act as barriers to cavity-prone areas. They are applied to
the chewing surfaces of the molars after the teeth erupt
and are completely above the gum. Both primary and permanent
teeth can benefit from sealants.
188 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
Sports Injuries. Mouth guards can help protect children
from a dental emergency. They should be worn whenever
children participate in sports and recreational activities.
Mouth guards cushion blows that can otherwise cause
broken teeth, injuries to the lips and face, and even jaw
fractures. Mouth guards are available at many retail stores
or may be custom-made by a dentist.
Jaw and bite problems. Malocclusion, or bad bite, is a
condition in which the teeth are crowded, crooked, out
of alignment or the jaws don’t meet properly. This may
become particularly noticeable between ages six and 12,
when a child’s permanent teeth are developing.
If not treated early, a bad bite can make it difficult to keep
teeth and gums clean where teeth are crooked or crowded,
increasing the risk for cavities and gum disease. Bad bites
can also affect proper jaw development, making protruding
teeth at risk for chips and fractures. It can also affect
eating and speaking, and make some teeth more likely
to wear abnormally or faster than those that are properly
aligned.
Teaching children good oral hygiene habits early is a simple
way to create a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles. Remember,
modeling your own good oral hygiene habits not only
reinforces your advice, it improves your own dental health.
www.ameritasinsight.com
Photo courtesy of Getty Images

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FOCUS of SWFL 2014 189

190 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

My Eye
JimFrance
www.jimfrancephotographer.com
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 191

192 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
Photographer: Jim France
Model: Anna Vidaurri

Photographer: Jim France
Model: Marta Alarcon Bacardi
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 193

194 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
Photographer: Jim France
Model: Migda Casas
Swim Suit by Ocean Deluxe

Photographer: Jim France
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FOCUS of SWFL 2014 195

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Photographer: Jim France

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FOCUS of SWFL 2014 197

Artist Marvin Gralnick
Solo Exhibition
By Melissa DeHaven
Self-taught artist, Marvin Gralnick was born in Saint Louis, Missouri,
where for over fifteen years he worked with his father in the antique,
design, and decorative arts fields, before embarking upon a
career marketing and designing clothing and apparel. The fashion
business he and his wife, Helene, founded in 1983, on Florida's tiny
Sanibel Island, eventually evolved into a successful national retail
chain known as Chico’s. Some thirty years later, retirement led the
restless entrepreneur to explore painting and sculpture as an outlet
for yet another aspect of creative expression.
Gralnick's dedication to his own art began in 1999. In recent years
he has emerged, literally and figuratively, onto a wider artistic plane,
making his work available to a growing circle of international art
professionals and collectors, including Europe and USA, through gallery
representation, solo shows, group exhibitions, and international
art fairs.
Gralnick’s brand of Post- Modernism is best described as “Urban Primalism”,
inspired by artists like Picasso, Dubuffet, and Basquiat. In
his paintings there is a strong overtone of cultural and political satire
with roots in primitive self expression. The viewer is left with a serious
message, that it is up to each of us, individually to be better human
beings. Philosophically rooted in a personal brand of activism,
all of Gralnick’s work conveys a passion for kinetic strokes of color,
provocative words and arresting images which embody the American
dream filtered through the raw lens of popular culture.
In addition to experimenting with different ways of applying paint--variously splattering,
brushing, smearing, and squeezing directly from the tube--he has perfected
the depersonalized industrial technique of photo transfer similar to that utilized by
neighbor Robert Rauschenberg, whose influence Gralnick embraces.These photo silkscreen
paintings contain deliberate imperfections, revealing the uneven inking of the
roller, slips of the screen, and an overall graininess and partial blotting out of images.
Gralnick transforms mixed-media collage, richly painted surfaces, and photo silk
screens into elegantly layered amalgams of motifs, both iconic and mundane, familiar
and exotic, the placement of which, although seemingly juxtaposed at random on the
picture plane, has been intricately strategized by the artist.
Sculptor and artist Lawrence Voytek, former director of art production for Robert
Rauschenberg for over twenty eight years, is a collaborator with Gralnick and works
with him at the Gypsy Ranch studio, assisting with art fabrication.
The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is proud to present the solo exhibition of artist Marvin Gralnick, opening on
March 7, 2014. Gralnick is the retired CEO and founder of retail giant Chico’s and a renowned artist in his own right.
The show opens for Art Walk on Friday, March 7th, at 6 p.m. and continues through March 28. The Davis Art Center is
located at 2301 First Street, in the River District, downtown Fort Myers.
www.sbdac.com
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 199

Artist Gallery
Reflection - By Mary Taglieri
figurin - By Miguel Marinero
200 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
Past is Past - By Gael Collar

BE KIND - by Marvin Gralnick
MIDNIGHT VASE - by Thomas Van Sciver
Abstract/Expressionism - By Gina Battle Art
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 201

Extra
VirginRecipes
Celebrity Chefs and
stars of the Cooking
Channel’s Extra Virgin,
Debi Mazar & Gabriele
Corcos, combined their
love of all things Tuscan
with their favorite not-sosecret
ingredient, House
Foods Tofu – America’s
premium tofu purveyor
since 1983. The new
recipes created by the
couple are not only
healthly, but perfect for
the upcoming season
and include:
By Alexandra Cook
• Cavolo Nero, Beets and Fennel with Creamy Tofu Dressing
kicks a traditional salad up a notch with roasted beets, fennel,
kale, and a simple, yet satisfying, dressing that combines
House Foods Premium or Organic Tofu Soft with anchovies,
lemon and garlic.
• Pan Seared Crispy Tofu with Rustic Tapenade is the perfect
appetizer for outdoor entertaining during the spring and summer.
In this dish House Foods Premium or Organic Tofu Firm
is topped with a delicious combination of nicoise and green
olives, capers and lemon juice.
• Bucatini with Creamy Tofu Sauce is a healthy, yet delectable,
main course. Simply combine bucatini pasta with asparagus,
peas and garlic to create a base for the sauce of House Foods
Premium or Organic Tofu Medium Firm, vegetable stock and
lemon juice.
• Tofu Lemon Tart with Olive Oil Crust is a wonderful way to
end a meal on a sweet note. This good-for- you take on an
Italian classic finds the rich House Foods Premium or Organic
Tofu Firm, sugar and freshly squeezed lemon tart as a perfect
complement to the heart healthy olive oil crust.
202 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
www.house-foods.com

Cavolo Nero, Beets and Fennel with Creamy Tofu Dressing
Ingredients
3/4 pound red beets (3 medium sized), scrubbed
1 large bulb fennel, trimmed, and cut into 1 inch chunks
1 medium onion, roughly chopped
2 Tbsp olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 large bunch cavolo nero (Tuscan kale), washed, tough
stems removed, roughly chopped into 1 inch pieces
1/3 cup smoked almonds, chopped
Shaved Parmesan (optional)
Dressing:
1/3 of a 14 oz. package House Foods Premium or Organic
Tofu Soft
3 anchovies (packed in oil)
Juice of 1 lemon
1 clove garlic, peeled
2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Heat oven to 400 degrees.
Wrap each beet in foil and place on sheet tray and roast for 25 minutes.
Meanwhile, toss fennel and onion in a small bowl with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Add to the sheet tray
with the beets after they have roasted for 25 minutes.
Continue roasting fennel and beets for 30 minutes more.
Then open up the foil packets to let beets cool, rub off the skins of the beets using a paper towel and chop into bite size
pieces.
Add the tofu, anchovies, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper to a blender and blend until smooth.
Combine the kale and roasted beets, fennel, and onion to a large bowl and drizzle with the dressing.
Toss to thoroughly coat.
Garnish with smoked almonds and shaved Parmesan.
Serves 4
Directions
Spray a 9 inch tart pan with removable bottom with non
stick spray.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and
vanilla bean seeds.
Drizzle in the olive oil and stir it in with a wooden spoon,
then drizzle in the water, and stir in together until lumpy.
Use your hands and knead the dough until it just comes
together as a ball in the bowl.
Dust your work surface lightly with flour and dust a rolling
pin.
Roll out the dough 1 inch bigger than a 9- inch tart pan.
Move the dough to the tart pan and press evenly into the
pan.
Prick the bottom with a fork and place in the fridge for 30
minutes to rest.
Heat oven to 350 degrees.
Place chilled tart shell on a rimmed baking sheet and
place in the oven to bake for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, add the tofu, sugar, lemon juice, flour, baking
powder, and salt to the bowl of a food processor and
blend until smooth.
Remove tart dough from oven and carefully pour the filling
into the shell.
Place tart back into the oven and bake for 45 minutes,
until just the center of the tart is still wiggly when gently
shakened.
Remove from oven and let cool completely.
The filling will deflate slightly as it cools.
Sprinkle lightly with confectioners’ sugar before serving,
if desired.
Serves 8
Tofu Lemon Tart with Olive Oil Crust
Ingredients
Olive Crust:
1 ½ cups all purpose flour
½ cup confectioners’ sugar
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 vanilla bean, seeded
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup cold water
Zest from 1 lemon
Lemon Filling:
1 (14 oz.) package House Foods Premium or Organic Tofu Firm
1 ¼ cup sugar
1 ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/3 cup all purpose flour
3/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp kosher salt
Confectioners’ sugar, for garnish (optional)
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 203

Pan Seared Crispy Tofu with Rustic Tapenade
Ingredients
1 (12 ounce) container House Foods Extra Firm Tofu, cut into ½ inch slices
1 clove garlic, smashed
1/2 cup nicoise olives, pitted and roughly chopped
1/2 cup green Sicilian olives, pitted and roughly chopped
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp chopped parsley
1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tsp capers, rinsed and chopped
¼ cup olive oil
Directions
Pulse the garlic, olives, olive oil, parsley,
lemon juice, and capers in a bowl of a food
processor until chunky. Empty to a bowl and
reserve.
Pat the tofu dry with paper towels and season
on both sides with salt and pepper.
Heat the ¼ cup olive oil in a large non stick
skillet over medium high heat.
Once hot, add the tofu and fry for 4 1/2
minutes, until golden and crisp, then flip
and continue cooking on the other side for 4
minutes more.
Remove to a paper towel lined plate to drain
off any excess oil and sprinkle evenly with
another pinch of salt.
Top each crisp piece of tofu with a heaping
tablespoon of tapenade.
Serves 4-6 as an appetizer
Celebrity Chefs, Debi Mazar & Gabriele Corcos
Bucatini with a Creamy Tofu Sauce
(with Asparagus and Peas)
www.house-foods.com
204 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
Ingredients
¾ (14 oz.) package House Foods Premium or Organic Tofu Medium Firm
1 pound bucatini pasta
3/4 cup vegetable stock
Juice of 1 lemon
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 large shallot, minced
6 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp red pepper flakes
1 cup frozen peas
1 bundle (12 – 16 oz.) thin asparagus, ends trimmed, cut into 1 inch pieces
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the pasta to the boiling water and set a timer and cook for 4 minutes less
than package instructions.
Add the asparagus and cook for 3 more minutes, until pasta is cooked and the
asparagus is softened.
Stir in the peas then drain pasta and reserve.
Blend the tofu, vegetable stock, and lemon juice until smooth in a food processor.
Set aside.
Heat olive oil over medium high heat in a large sauté pan.
Once hot, add the shallot and garlic, and cook, while stirring, until soft, about 3
minutes.
Stir in the red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute more.
Stir in the blended tofu mixture and turn heat to medium, bring to a simmer, and
cook for 5 minutes.
Season the mixture with salt and pepper.
Stir in the cooked pasta, asparagus, and peas, and toss well with the sauce.
Season the pasta with lots of freshly ground black pepper.
Serves 6

With risk factors for heart disease on the rise, it has never been more important to incorporate heart-healthy meals
into your family’s diet.
Family Features
According to recent statistics, heart disease is the leading cause of death among women in the U.S. With this in mind,
Campbell Soup Company is on a mission to help women care for their hearts. With a diverse portfolio of foods that balance
great taste and nutritional value, Campbell offers nearly 100 options that meet the criteria for the American Heart
Association’s® Heart-Check mark.
Caring for your heart starts in the kitchen
Creating balanced meals for the family doesn’t have to be difficult. In addition to offering heart-healthy foods, Campbell
works with its culinary staff, nutrition team and trained chefs to create healthy recipes. This recipe for Sante Fe
Chicken Saute is a simple, one-skillet dish that combines lean chicken breast, black beans and corn with a spicy picante
kick. Or, try this recipe for Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Chowder, which features chicken paired with a flavorful combination
of zucchini, corn, potatoes and cream of celery soup. And no one can resist comforting Easy Chicken Shepard’s
Pie. For more easy-to-prepare and heart-healthy recipes and for nutrition information, visit www.campbellskitchen.com.
Seven steps towards a healthier heart
A strong heart starts with a healthy diet and lifestyle. According to the American Heart Association, following these
seven health and behavior factors can make a huge difference in your heart’s health. For more heart-healthy tips, visit
www.heart.org.
1. Don’t smoke.
2. Maintain a healthy weight.
3. Engage in regular physical activity.
4. Eat a healthy diet.
5. Manage blood pressure.
6. Take charge of cholesterol.
7. Keep blood sugar, or glucose, at healthy levels.
Hearty Chicken & Vegetable Chowder
Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 large onion, minced (about 1 cup)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell’s® Healthy Request® Condensed
Healthy Request® Cream of Celery Soup
1 cup nonfat milk
1 cup water
2 medium red potatoes, diced (about 2 cups)
1 large zucchini, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
1 cup whole kernel corn
2 cups diced cooked chicken
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Heat oil in 4-quart saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic
and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in soup, milk and water and
heat to a boil. Stir in potatoes, zucchini and corn. Reduce heat to medium-low.
Cook for 35 minutes or until potatoes are tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in
chicken and parsley and cook until mixture is hot and bubbling.
continued on page 178...
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 205

Sante Fe Chicken Saute
Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 3/4 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1 teaspoon minced garlic
4 green onions, minced (about 1/2 cup)
1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell’s® Healthy Request® Condensed Healthy Request® Tomato Soup
1/2 cup Pace® Picante Sauce
1/2 cup water
1 can (about 15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup whole kernel corn
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Stir chili powder and cumin in small bowl. Season chicken with chili powder mixture. Heat oil in 12-inch skillet over
medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 6 minutes or until browned on both sides. Add garlic and onions and
cook; stir for 1 minute. Stir in soup, picante sauce and water and heat to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add
beans and corn. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Sprinkle with cilantro.
Easy Chicken Shepard’s Pie
Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4
1 can (10 3/4 ounces) Campbell’s® Healthy
Request® Condensed Healthy Request® Cream of Mushroom
Soup
1 1/4 cups water
1 1/4 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast
halves, cut into 1-inch pieces
3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning, crushed
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 package (16 ounces) frozen mixed vegetables,
thawed
1 cup instant mashed potato flakes
1 cup fat free evaporated milk
1/4 cup shredded 2% milk Cheddar cheese
Heat oven to 350°F. Stir soup and 1/4 cup water in large bowl. Season chicken with 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, onion
powder and poultry seasoning. Heat oil in 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until well
browned, stirring occasionally. Add chicken and vegetables to soup mixture and stir to coat. Spoon chicken mixture into
2-quart round casserole. Microwave remaining water in microwavable bowl on HIGH for 1 to 2 minutes or until hot. Add
potato flakes and stir until water is absorbed. Stir in milk and remaining black pepper. Loosely cover and microwave on
HIGH for 2 minutes or until mixture is hot. Spread potato mixture over chicken mixture. Sprinkle with cheese. Bake for
40 minutes or until chicken mixture is hot and bubbling.
206 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Coastal-Inspired Creation
Make family mealtime convenient and delicious by incorporating a fun, coastal twist into your household’s favorite
dishes. Introducing a new ingredient, such as shrimp or seafood, is an easy way to serve a mouthwatering meal
that is big on flavor.
Families today are busier than ever, with job obligations, household duties, school demands and extracurricular
activities all chewing into free time. When it comes to eating, it’s easy to fall into a recycled dinnertime routine
that relies heavily on the same old, tried-and-true recipes. Switching things up with a unique dish that breaks out
of this mealtime rut can bring delight to everyone at the dinner table – and add a layer of convenience to your
carefully balanced schedule.
For a simple, upbeat change, try adding a new ingredient, such as shrimp, to a traditional dish like pasta or tacos.
Using frozen seafood eliminates unnecessary prep time and fuss, while still delivering big on flavor and quality.
With options ranging from crispy Popcorn Shrimp to savory Salmon Burgers and crunchy Shrimp Spring Rolls,
SeaPak Shrimp & Seafood Co. makes it exceedingly easy to bring more coastal flavor to your dinner table.
The recipe below combines easy pesto pasta and SeaPak’s new Parmesan Encrusted Butterfly Shrimp, for an innovative
and flavorful entree that you can have on the table in just 30 minutes.
Parmesan Shrimp and Pesto Noodles
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Family Features
1 package (18 ounces) SeaPak Parmesan Encrusted Butterfly Shrimp
(includes packet of tomato Romano sauce)
1 pound spaghetti, cooked al dente
1 cup prepared pesto
1 package flatbread or pita bread
Prepare shrimp according to package directions and keep warm. Heat tomato
Romano sauce according to package directions. Warm flatbread or pita bread
in microwave.
Toss pasta with pesto and top with shrimp. Garnish with basil and parmesan,
if desired. Serve with bread and tomato Romano sauce on the side.
www.seapak.com
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 209

Culinary AdventureFamily Features
From taking a food tour through the Mediterranean to infusing everyday recipes with exotic herbs and spices, home chefs are eager
to explore the world through culinary adventures.
Americans are looking for adventure, sophistication and new experiences in the kitchen, according to a recent survey of people ages
45 to 65 commissioned by Florida Grapefruit. Based on the findings, the top five culinary adventures home chefs in this age group
want to achieve are:
1. Spice up everyday meals with trendy, of-the-moment ingredients.
2. Add sophistication to beverages by using fresh herbs in unusual ways.
3. Create an exciting new dessert by pairing unexpected flavors, such as smokiness and a Middle Eastern influence.
4. Adopt a Mediterranean flair by exploring the tastes, culture and ethnic flavors of this region.
5. Add an exotic twist to favorite cuisines with a fusion of two favorite globally-inspired dishes.
To deliver on this wish list, celebrity chef Aarti Sequeira has created a series of tangy, exotic and delicious recipes. Each dish features
a sweet and zingy favorite – 100 percent Florida grapefruit juice or fresh Florida grapefruit segments.
The recipes, part of the “Taste a World of Zing” collection, feature step-by-step instructions that give even kitchen novices the confidence
to try something new. Among them is the Grapefruit Tart with Cardamom Cream, which answers the call to pair unexpected
flavors in the same delicious dish.
For more ways to “Taste a World of Zing,” visit www.facebook.com/FloridaGrapefruit to find additional recipes that answer your craving
for culinary adventure. Chef Aarti will release a new recipe every two weeks throughout the spring.
Florida Grapefruit Tart with Cardamom Cream
Makes: 4 to 6 servings
1 1/2 cups whole milk
5 cardamom pods, crushed
5 extra-large egg yolks, room temperature
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon orange blossom water
1 tablespoon Florida grapefruit zest
Pinch Kosher salt
1 tablespoon heavy cream
1 refrigerated pie crust
3 ruby red Florida grapefruit, peeled, white pith removed, cut
into segments
Maldon smoked salt, for sprinkling
Place milk and cardamom pods in a small saucepan over medium-low
heat. Cook, stirring often, until small bubbles form around the circumference
of the saucepan. Turn off heat, cover and steep for 20 minutes.
Beat egg yolks and sugar together in a stand mixer at medium-high speed until pale yellow and very thick, about 5 minutes. Turn
the speed down to low, then add the cornstarch.
Meanwhile, strain milk into a measuring cup. Stir in orange blossom water and grapefruit zest, along with a pinch of salt. Keeping
the mixer on low, slowly pour in the milk mixture, beating until just combined. Transfer the milk mixture to a medium saucepan over
medium-low heat. Cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until it comes to a boil, 5 to 10 minutes. Switch to a whisk; whisk
constantly until it has thickened to the texture of pudding. Turn heat off. Stir in heavy cream and then strain into a large bowl. Place
plastic wrap on the actual surface of the pastry cream, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
Once pastry cream is chilled, pre-heat oven to 425° F. Place pie crust in 9 1/2-inch tart pan. Prick dough evenly with fork to keep it
from puffing up in the oven. Bake for about 12 minutes or until the pie crust is just golden brown. Remove from oven and cool.
Just before serving, pour the pastry cream into the tart crust and even out. Decorate with concentric circles of grapefruit segments.
Sprinkle with smoked salt and serve immediately.
For individual tartlets: Divide pie crust among four 4 3/4-inch tart pans. Bake at 425°F. for about 10 minutes or just until golden
brown.
210 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

MOBILE
Go to FOCUSOFSWFL.com
on your mobile device.
Regional information at your fingertips!
Le Macaron
The macaron, perfected in France, has a long history dating
back centuries in Europe. Macarons are small round cakes
that fit in the palm of your hand. They are lightly crisp on
the outside, smooth and creamy in the center, filled with
ganache (chocolate), rich cream, home-made fruit jams or
other quality ingredients.
Each season and month, new flavors will be introduced to
complement the collection. Dine in or take - out, gift boxes,
favor boxes, and custom orders are available.
Like more information please contact: 941.552.8872.
www.lemacaron-us.com
382 St Armands Circle
Sarasota, FL
Audrey's
Jamaican Cuisine
4463-D Ashton Rd
Sarasota, FL 34233
941-928-3309
www.audreysrumcakes.com
iPad, iPhone, Android, BlackBerry and web enabled mobile device
where you live and work; it is who you are.
Service-provider fees may apply.
Availability varies by phone/network.
A simple way to indulge yourself!

Fuel Your Active Lifestyle
Family Features
Many people are taking advantage of warmer temperatures
and increased hours of sunlight to get fit for the fun season
ahead. As they do, they’ll be looking for ways to fuel their efforts.
Enter dairy, a protein powerhouse that provides numerous
benefits to active individuals.
More protein per ounce
The perfect addition to snack or mealtime, dairy foods offer
a convenient way to add the protein needed to help you
achieve your fitness goals. While helping your body build
and repair muscle, as well regulate metabolism, it also keeps
you satisfied longer. In fact, just one serving of milk, cheese
or yogurt provides approximately 8 grams of high quality
protein, including all essential amino acids. When it comes to
smart snacking, dairy really packs a protein punch.
Protein-packed whey
Whey protein is a high-quality protein found naturally in dairy
foods, and it provides the nutrients that help promote better
health.
Need a helpful way to remember this beneficial nutrition
source? Think “Y-M-C-Whey” when you’re looking to fuel your
fitness efforts:
• Y is for Yogurt: Enjoy this versatile food at any time of day.
Double up on protein with Greek yogurt, which often contains
twice the amount as regular yogurt.
• M is for Milk: Reach for low-fat chocolate milk after exercise.
The protein it provides supports healthy muscles and
the carbohydrates help refuel you with energy.
• C is for Cheese: Grab a slice, wedge or stick when you
need something to tide you over between meals. The protein
in cheese can curb hunger, which makes it a great tool for
weight management.
• W is for Whey: Add whey protein powder to your postworkout
smoothie or cereal, which can help build and maintain
lean muscle.
It’s simple to power your fitness goals – whatever they may
be – with dairy.
Rainbow Fruit & Cheese Kabobs
Servings: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
www.dairymakessense.com
6 straws (8-inches or longer)
6 ounces Monterey cheese, cut into 18 cubes
1/2 cup strawberry halves
1/2 cup cantaloupe, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
1/2 cup pineapple, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
1 kiwifruit, peeled and cut into 6 pieces
1/4 cup blueberries
6 purple grapes
To make a rainbow for each kabob, thread onto a straw a piece of cheese,
a strawberry halve, a cantaloupe cube, a pineapple cube, another piece of
cheese, a piece of kiwi, 2 blueberries, a grape and another piece of cheese.
Repeat pattern with remaining straws.
Nutritional information per serving: 135 calories; 9 g fat; 7 g protein; 8 g
carbohydrates; 1 g dietary fiber; 25 mg cholesterol; 135 mg sodium; calcium
22 percent of daily value.
FOCUS of SWFL 2014 213

Photo courtesy of Thinkstock
• Wash your hands frequently using soap and water or an
alcohol-based rub. Avoid unnecessarily touching your eyes,
nose and mouth, which are easy portals for germs to enter
your body.
• Keep your immune system running strong by eating sensible
and nutritious meals, exercising regularly, managing
stress in a healthy way and getting plenty of sleep.
Fight the Flu
Family Features
With cold and flu season upon us, it may be tempting to hibernate
until the danger of red, puffy eyes and a stuffy nose
disappears. Waiting for a cold or flu to run its course can
truly feel like an eternity, especially when the symptoms have
you looking as bad as you feel.
While there is no guaranteed strategy for avoiding the flu or
sniffles, there are steps you can take to safeguard yourself
and your family. And if you do fall ill, taking extra care will
help ease you through until you’re on the mend.
While the Centers for Disease Control recommends the flu
shot as the single best preventive measure, you can also help
ward off illness with healthy habits like these:
• Keep yourself and your belongings away from others who
may be sick to prevent the spread of germs. Don’t share
dishes and utensils in the kitchen, and provide sick family
members with their own hand towels in the kitchen and
bathroom.
214 FOCUS of SWFL 2014
If your prevention falls short and you find yourself combatting
sniffles, take these steps to nudge yourself back to good
health:
• Consult with your pharmacist or doctor about which medications
may help relieve your symptoms.
• Use a soft facial tissue on your irritated skin. Puffs Plus
Lotion is dermatologist-tested to be gentle and helps soothe
irritated skin by locking in moisture
• Stay home for at least 24 hours after a fever passes. This
will help you catch up on much-needed rest and prevent the
chance of passing anything contagious on to your friends and
co-workers.
• Calm stuffy sinuses with the steam of a long, hot shower.
Take the sinus soothing a step further by using Puffs Plus Lotion
with the Scent of Vicks.
• Cover your nose or mouth with a tissue like Puffs when
sneezing or coughing to minimize the spread of germs.
As your symptoms ease, remember to take it easy and allow
your body to fully recover so you don’t suffer a setback that
needlessly prolongs your illness.
www.puffs.com