FOCusof ARTIST

NOV/DEC 2013

FOCusof SWFL

ARTIST

Issue

$4.95

OYSTER PERPETUAL YACHT-MASTER II - EVEROSE ROLESOR - 44 mm

CHROMALIGHT display with long-lasting luminescence - White lacquered, snailed pink gold small seconds counter

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

ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL AND DATEJUST ARE TRADEMARKS

PETUNIASOFNAPLES.COM

852 5th Ave South | Naples, FL 34102 | 239.262.2128

47

40

ontent

Collier

Sarasota

Charlotte

Lee

66

22 Healthy

24 Optimize

28 Stocking 4 Kids

30 Keeping it off

33 Make Life Interesting

35 Writing the Perfect Card

39 Holiday Season

52 Save on Costly Engine Repairs

54 intelligent

56 Exclusive Masterpiece

64 Bespoke Phantom

72 You've got it

75 Contemporary Refinement

77 Becoming More Relevant

78 Unnesessary

80 Dark Downsides for Retirement

82 Ideas

10 FOCUS of SWFL 2013

120

94

58

84 Open for Business

86 Know Your Family History

88 Save Your Sight

88 Living with Diabetes

90 Achieving Personal Harmony

91 Breast Cancer

92 Global Beauty

101 Sweet Dreams

102 "Team" Caprice

105 Outdoor Solutions

106 Family Safe

108 Light Up

110 10 Solutions

112 Easy Clean Up

115 Paint Like a Pro

117 Geisha Beauty

145

130

ontent

Collier

Sarasota

Charlotte

Lee

Designer Profile

News & Info

93 High Tech for Breast Cancer

111 Waxing for All

118 Graff Diamonds Iconic Hair & Jewels

200 - 208 Events & Affairs

215 Limited Whisky in U.S.

217 Thwart That Throat Tickle

138 Art Walks the Runway

142 Defining Moment

170 evolve

176 Exploring Worlds

182 Attitude

191 Maternity

193 Rejuvenated

210 Holiday Hors D’oeuvres

212 Make Holiday Meals Better

215 Warm Up To Cocktails

216 Quick Breakfast

218 Reduce Food Waste

221 Don't Skip the Suds

222 Having Fun as We Age

148

116 Mariapia Malerba

140 Anna Dudzinska

188 Julie Verfaillie

192 Maguelonne Toissant-Samat

194 Osvaldo Montalbano

196 "Between the Myth and the Beauty"

198

Richard L. Tooke

Maria Fernanda Lairet

Michael St. Amand

Alex Berdysheff

Andreas Oetker-Kast

Nicholas Berdysheff

Hollis Jeffcoat

Michael Vincent Manalo

Emilio Merlina

Grimanesa Amorós

Evelin Juen

Stephen Knapp

Rainer Lagemann

Edouard Mortec

Antonio Guerrero

Steve Tobin

FOCus

Magazine

www.focusofswfl.com

Publisher: Focus Magazine of SWFL

Cover Photography: Kenal Louis

Model: Nancy Pham

Creative Coordinator: Raechel Dennis

Makeup & Hair Styled By: Omar Rodriguez

Contributors:

of SWFL

Terri Profetto, Susan Bennett, Samantha Ramos, Lina LaSalle, Ginny Grimsley,

Indi Franco, Scott Black, Ann Gordon, Samantha Scott, Simone Vera Bath,

Kamila Domagala, Elisabetta Tassan Toffola, Kamila Domagala, Oscar Bernelli,

Shiri Sarfati, Susana Sueldo, Olivia Capone Myers, Thomas Connors, Estrella

Eguino, Michael St. Amand, Nicholas Berdysheff, Lee Horton, Adam Tardif,

Ed Chappell, Jade Dellinger, Sandra Yeyati, Indi Franco, Mike Coppola, Frazer

Harrison, Peter Michael Dills, Joe Kohen, Arun Nevader, Ginny Grimsley, Mai

Yomioto, Giovanni Bogetto, Tony William, Julien Hekimian

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


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

Staying

Healthy

on a Busy Schedule

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Life can sometimes feel a little too jam-packed with work, errands,

carpools, cooking dinner and more. When that happens,

healthy habits often fall by the wayside in favor of convenience.

Fast food can replace home cooked meals and exercise makes

way for the television.

Registered dietitians and authors Lyssie Lakatos and Tammy

Lakatos Shames, who are also known as “The Nutrition Twins,”

have advice for feeling good and staying healthy despite a busy

schedule.

Drink up: People often mistake thirst for hunger, prompting

them to overeat. Keep seltzer, iced green tea or water with lime

in the fridge. The next time you want a nosh between meals,

drink a glass first and see what happens.

Sneak in exercise: If it feels like too much of a task to get to

the gym each day, sneak in exercise wherever you can. Take the

stairs instead of the elevator at work or push your kids on the

swings for an arm workout. Even if you walk around the neighborhood

for 15 minutes, it counts. Just get moving!

Family Features

Bite into some energy: You might think a sugary candy bar

from the office vending machine will perk you up, but a healthy,

balanced snack will keep you on your toes longer. Make sure

your snack has a quality, high-fiber carbohydrate, like fresh fruit,

oatmeal or whole-grain crispbread, for long lasting energy and

a lean protein, such as a hardboiled egg or Greek yogurt, to

help you feel satisfied. The two will work together to keep your

energy up and your desire to visit the snack machine down.

Sleep tight: Sleep deprivation slows your metabolism down and

negatively affects your immune system. When you’re busy that’s

the last thing you need. Set yourself a bedtime that’s eight hours

before you have to wake up and start getting ready for bed 30

minutes prior to that. The last step is tough, but don’t bring your

phone or computer to bed with you. Instead, pick up a book to

help you relax and drift off to sleep.

Simplify, simplify, simplify: Mornings tend to be hectic, so

The Nutrition Twins get excited when they can eliminate something

from their routine. That’s why they love Vitamints. They’re

a vitamin and mint in one that can be taken anytime, anywhere

even without food or water; it’s easy to just pop them in your

bag or car and go. The twins like the Immune, Energy and Multi

for Women varieties.


www.Vitamints.com

Optimize

Your Mornings

Photos courtesy of Getty Images

Family Features

Even the most chipper of morning people can sometimes wake up

groggy and tired. And if their children wake up feeling the exact

same way, mornings can definitely drag. There are, however, little

things you can do — from scheduling exercise at optimal times, to

packing protein into breakfast, to planning daily goals — that will

make a big difference.

The following tips will help put that zing in your family’s step.

Wake up and work out: Do you start your morning with a healthy

dose of exercise? The time you begin your workout matters more

than you may think. A study shows that those who work out before

eating in the morning burned approximately 20 percent more than

those who wait until after breakfast.

Rev up your metabolism: Allow a little extra time in your morning

to rev up your metabolism. A short, 20 minute weight lifting session

can get your blood pumping and help you burn calories throughout

the day. Of course, if you’re busy managing the kids in the morning,

you can still increase your metabolism just by adding more protein

to your morning meal while making sure it’s low in calories and

carbs.

Make time for breakfast: Never skip breakfast — not only will

that deplete your energy, but it can also negatively impact your

health. In fact, recent studies show that those who opt out of breakfast

time are at a 27 percent higher risk of having a heart attack.

The same study also finds that those who eat breakfast are likely to

be healthier eaters overall. This is especially important for children

as they develop habits over time. So, help them establish a healthy

breakfast habit early. If time is an issue, make breakfast a priority

(and a convenience) by filling your pantry with quick, healthy. lowfat

options, such as Vi Crunch cereal, which provides 12 grams of

protein and 5 grams of fiber.


Create a checklist: Think of your entire day as a series of small

goals and write them down in the morning or the night before. Then

cross out tasks as you complete them. Not only will you reduce

stress from having a better visual of your family’s day, you will feel

more productive as you progress through your list.

Shake up the morning: Get out that blender and toss in healthy

foods. Breakfast smoothies and shakes are a fast way to get the

essential nutrients to jumpstart your day. Plus, they’re easy to pour,

and they’re mobile — throw in a straw and sip while you walk.

Recruit your children to help, and let them have fun mixing up their

own tasty creation with fresh fruit like pineapple, banana and blueberries.

Amp up your shake with nutritious additions, such as chia

seeds, natural peanut butter or Vi Crunch Fusions, which come in

two delicious flavors, Chocolate Macadamia Granola and Tri-Berry

Puffs. Each makes a crunchy topping for your favorite breakfast

foods, especially for the young, picky eater.

Pause: Before you leave the house, take one minute to breathe.

Feel good you ate breakfast and warmed up your body with exercise.

And don’t forget to take your to-do list with you. You never

know what opportunities the day will inspire.

www.ViCrunch.com

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.

Stockings

5th Annual

4

Kids Kicking Off

by Samantha Scott

Santa’s elves are starting early! For the fifth year, local business

consultant Lee Knapp is rallying the community to make Christmas

dreams come true for local, less fortunate children through

Stockings 4 Kids, a United Way partner organization.

Founder of the organization, Lee Knapp started Stockings 4 Kids,

a 501c3 organization, with a desire to give every child a happy

Christmas morning, something she feels every child deserves.

“Christmas is my favorite time of year and the thought of a child

having nothing to open on that special morning is heartbreaking,”

she explains. “Stockings 4 Kids brings local businesses,

adults and children together to provide a beautiful Christmas

stocking filled with wonderful surprises to 1,500 less fortunate

children in the area.” For some children it may be the only gift

they receive.

Preparations of the 5th Annual Stockings 4 Kids effort are

already underway and sponsors are being actively sought to

help fund the project. In order to meet the 1,500-stocking goal,

Knapp needs to raise $20,000. Each beautiful nineteen inch

Christmas stocking costs $12 including the stocking itself and all

gifts inside it.

Businesses, individuals and families are invited to make a taxdeductible

donation to help fund Stockings 4 Kids. There are two

sponsorship levels – Santa and Elf. To provide a Santa sponsorship

donors are asked to contribute $1,200, which will fill 100

stockings. To provide an Elf sponsorship the donation is $600,

which will fill 50 stockings. Donations of any kind are accepted

and appreciated. All donations should be made out to United

Way of Lee County with a note that the donation is designated

for “Stockings 4 Kids”.

United Mechanical Inc. is a major sponsor, providing and

decorating their warehouse space as Santa’s Workshop. Santa’s

Workshop is where “Kids Helping Kids” will take place on December

7th and 8th. Young children volunteers will be the “elves”

responsible for stuffing the 1,500 stockings for other children,

a true example of kids helping kids and sharing the magic of

Christmas.

For more information, to donate or become a sponsor for Stockings

4 Kids, please contact Lee Knapp at stockings4kids@gmail.

com or call 239-481-8557 or (239) 898-0941. Stockings 4 Kids

is a 501c3 non-profit and United Way of Lee County partner

organization.


Keeping

it Off


With the holidays in full swing, managing your waist line may

have you as frustrated as the lines you encounter while shopping

for gifts. Beyond celebratory meals and seasonal snacks

aplenty at work and home, the holidays notoriously leave little

time for you to focus on managing your weight.

However, by following these three tips, you can be on your way

to keeping the weight off and head into the New Year a healthier

you.

Eat Smart. Though the temptations abound, be cautious about

portion sizes. When possible use a smaller plate, which will

prevent you from over-loading. Before heading out to a party,

eat a quick bowl of soup or a salad. Low in calories, these preparty

munchies will take the edge off your hunger and help you

moderate your consumption. And speaking of consumption, be

sure to limit alcoholic beverages, which can quickly multiply your

caloric intake.

Get Sleep. Lack of sleep can lead to eating more junk food, and

it can negatively impact your metabolism, making it harder to

properly process what you eat. A comfortable and supportive

mattress and pillow can help you sleep soundly, awake refreshed

and feel less stressed. Mattress Firm experts warn that older

mattresses and pillows have absorbed sweat, dust mites and

dander that can aggravate allergies and affect sleep. Replace

your mattress every eight years and your pillows every two

years for optimum health and support. Also, take a few moments

to relax before bed each night, to allow your body time to

adjust and settle in for the night.

Family Features

Stay Active. Though the demands on your time are many, seek

out ways to keep your body moving, not only to keep muscles

toned until you can resume your usual workout schedule, but

also to help burn those extra calories. After dinner with the family,

take a walk around the neighborhood or through a nearby

park. Or, arrange a game of touch football or dodge ball and

invite the whole family to play. If you find yourself with random

blocks of time, say while the pies are in the oven, grab a few

minutes to exercise inside with sit ups or leg lifts or even jogging

in place.

With a little bit of special attention to taking care of yourself

through the holiday months, you can manage your weight and

feel great about kicking off 2013 in great shape.

www.mattressfirm.com


Make Life

Interesting

By Ginny Grimsley

No matter your politics, religion or lifestyle, the maxim “all of life

is a wager” is a reliable one, says Marshall Chamberlain, a selfdescribed

recluse and, by many standards, modern-day Renaissance

man.

“It seems to me that most people live in a state of inertia and

pursue only the most prescribed avenues. To me, the world is

much too rich not to sample what life’s buffet has to offer,” says

Chamberlain, who has experienced life as a businessman, an

officer in the U.S. Marines, husband (and divorcee), father, world

traveler, boat dweller, writer and all-around adventurer. He’s also

the author of “The Mountain Place of Knowledge,” the first book

in the Ancestor Series of adventure-thrillers.

“Spend your days putting off your dreams, and the time to realize

those dreams can easily slip away. Considering time and the

unknowable nature of one’s expiration date, all of life is a wager.

I say the time for taking action on those ideas – usually relegated

to daydreams – is now.”

If the weekly working grind has got you feeling like a drone,

Chamberlain offers the following tips on the way to becoming a

true adventurer:

• Parlay your strengths into new adventures. With a period of

his life invested in the USMC, Chamberlain became accustomed

to a largely physical, Spartan-like existence. After his divorce,

he decided to simplify the needs of his everyday life, so he

became self-sufficient, living aboard a 30-foot sailboat for the

better part of 10 years. He also traveled the world, participated

in activities communing with nature, and pursued his passion to

become an author of adventure-thrillers.

• Make a list of what’s really important to you; trim the fat soon

after. To put it simply, most of us will not know in advance of

our death. We know one thing: we will one day die. With a

finite amount of time to wager, we simply don’t have the time to

watch the same bad movie every Friday night. Go big! Lose 20

pounds of fat and gain 20 pounds of muscle; or take a chance

with that crush you’ve been nursing for six months; or buy a

guitar and learn how to play it! You don’t have time for a banal

life.

• Become fluent in a second language (literally and figuratively):

Indeed, become familiar with Spanish, French, Italian or some

other language. More importantly, become fluent in a new language

to approaching life. Start saying yes to ideas that you’ve

harbored for a long time. One thing leads to another; perhaps

in learning Italian you’ll develop a passion for the language’s

rich culture. This could lead you on a trip to Italy. Who knows?

The important takeaway is: Don’t fear a new kind of fluency.

• Confront your fears. Are you sick and tired of the sheer

predictability of your 9-to-5 existence? Nothing shrugs off the

dreary residue of the daily commute than jumping out of a plane

to put things in perspective. If you have a fear of heights and

skydiving is too overwhelming, consider going to the top of the

tallest building near you. Confronting fear not only fills you with

adrenaline … you will also likely walk away filled with confidence.

But don’t let the adventure stop there! Let this be a lesson in

affirming life’s exciting potential; keep the adventure going by

testing your limits.

CD anD Money

Market alternative!

THE BANKERS 5 YEAR (SPDA-5) TAX DEFERRED ANNUITY

3.0 %INTEREST

John Zacira

Five - year

GUARANTEED

Winner of the Sarasota Magazine

2011 ¥ Approved Five for Star IRA Rollovers Wealth Manager Award

¥ Tax Deferred Interest Accumulation

¥ Monthly Interest Payments Available

Helping you Plan for Your Future

John Zacira, Licensed Agent

Call Today • Personalized John Investment Zacira Strategies

941 929 • Transparent, 9726 non-biased solutions

RMD Financial Group

• Affiliated with RMD Tax Solutions

CD anD 8181 S. Money

Tamiami Trail, Suite B, Sarasota Fl 34231

Winner of the Sarasota Magazine

Financial Advisor

Market

2011

alternative!

Five Star Wealth Manager Award

We sincerely thank our clients who distinguished John for this honorable

THE

award.

BANKERS

Our

5

clients

YEAR (SPDA-5)

are our priority

TAX DEFERRED

and we value

ANNUITY

Helping you Plan for Your Future the trust and confidence

that they place in us.

3.0

Personalized Investment This Strategies is a responsibility we take in earnest. We

Transparent, believe successful non-biased investing solutions begins with %INTEREST

a comprehensive understanding

Five - year

Affiliated of our clients’ with RMD goals, Tax expectations Solutionsand risk GUARANTEED tolerance. Then we draft and

Financial implement Advisor an appropriate strategy within those parameters. We are

¥ Approved for IRA Rollovers

We sincerely

committed

thank

to provide

our clients

a superior

who distinguished

level of service.

us for this honorable

*This annuity is issued by Bankers Life Insurance Company (Bankers” ), 11101 Roosevelt Blvd. N., St.

Petersburg, FL 33716 (dba. Western Bankers Life Insurance Company in Texas). This annuity has certain

limitations and potential penalties, which are fully set forth in the agreement governing the annuity. Interest

rates are current at the time of publication and are subject to change. Decreasing withdrawal or surrender

penaltiesÊmayÊapplyÊoverÊÞveÊyears.ÊBankersÊdoesÊnotÊgiveÊtaxÊorÊlegalÊadviceÊandÊhasÊnotÊauthorizedÊanyÊ

ofÊitsÊagentsÊtoÊgiveÊtaxÊorÊlegalÊadvice.ÊForÊtaxÊand/orÊlegalÊadvice,ÊpleaseÊconsultÊaÊqualiÞedÊadvisor.Ê

Bankers is not connected with and does not represent in any way the Social Security Administration or

any department, agency or authority of the United States government or any state, local or municipal

government. Not FDIC insured.

LV1820

About Marshall Chamberlain

Marshall Chamberlain is a man focused on his passions,

with no time for extraneous niceties like pets,

lawns, mortgages or plants. He has a Master’s Degree

in Resource Development from Michigan State University

and a graduate degree in International Management

from the Thunderbird School, just outside

of Phoenix, Ariz. He was an officer in the U.S. Marine

Corps and spent many years in investment banking,

venture capital, and even as a professional waiter. He

is obsessed with preparedness, survival and independence.

This combination of traits leads him to all manner of adventure, including

serious Stone Age survival classes. Chamberlain’s primary worldview is simple but

profound—“I’m in awe of the magnificence of this world,” he says. .

www.marshallchamberlain.com

¥ Tax Deferred Interest Accumulation

award. Our clients are our priority and we value the trust and confidence

that they 941 place 929 in 9726 us. This • ¥ 8181 Monthly is a S. responsibility Tamiami Interest Payments Trail, we SuiTe Available take B, in SaraSoTa earnest. We Fl believe 34231

successful investing begins with a comprehensive understanding of our

John Zacira, Licensed Agent

clients’ goals, expectations and risk tolerance. Then we draft and implement

an Call appropriate Today strategy within those parameters. We are committed to

provide 941 929 a superior 9726level of service.

Independent research firm, Crescendo Business Services, in partnership with Sarasota magazine, surveyed over 20,500

High-Net Worth households and more 8181 than S. 1900 Tamiami Financial Trail, Services Suite B, Professionals Sarasota Fl 34231 to determine which Wealth Managers

scored highest in satisfaction. This list represents less than 4 percent of the Wealth Managers in the Sarasota area. For more

information on the FIVE STAR award and selection process, go to: www.fivestarprofessional.com/wmresearch

*This annuity is issued by Bankers Life Insurance Company (Bankers” ), 11101 Roosevelt Blvd. N., St.

Securities offered through Investors Capital Corporation. Advisory Services offered through Investors Capital Advisory.

Petersburg, FL 33716 (dba. Western Bankers Life Insurance Company in Texas). This annuity has certain

230 limitations Broadway, and potential Lynnfield, penalties, MA which 01940, are (800) fully set 949-1422, forth in the Member agreement FINRA/SIPC.

governing the annuity. Interest

rates are current at the time of publication and are subject to change. Decreasing withdrawal or surrender

penaltiesÊmayÊapplyÊoverÊÞveÊyears.ÊBankersÊdoesÊnotÊgiveÊtaxÊorÊlegalÊadviceÊandÊhasÊnotÊauthorizedÊanyÊ

ofÊitsÊagentsÊtoÊgiveÊtaxÊorÊlegalÊadvice.ÊForÊtaxÊand/orÊlegalÊadvice,ÊpleaseÊconsultÊaÊqualiÞedÊadvisor.Ê

Bankers is not connected with and does not represent in any way the Social Security Administration or

any department, agency or authority of the United States government or any state, local or municipal

government. Not FDIC insured.

LV1681

LV1681

FOCUS of SWFL 2013 33

RMD F

cordiall

O

Location

Suit

I a

N

make a real

connection

Call Livelinks.

The hottest place to meet

the coolest people.

Try it Free!

239.580.0042

Ahora

en Español 18+

Writing the Perfect Card

Everyone loves to discover a handwritten

card or note among a thick stack of mail.

Regardless of how many electronic words

we get bombarded with each day, the personal

touch of a message written by hand

remains a special gesture that never goes

out of style.

From choosing a card or stationary that

reflects a personal style to accenting the

letter with the right seal or stamp, every

detail matters to underscore a thoughtful

message. Stamps are often one of the first

details noted by a letter recipient, so choosing

a stamp such as the love-letter themed

Sealed with Love Forever stamp from usps.

com/stamps or your local post office is perfect

for the occasion.

Not sure what sentiment to write for the occasion?

Here are a few ideas:

Notes of appreciation: Whether the recipient

gave you a gift, hosted you for dinner or

did a special favor, keep the message brief

and sincere. Don’t ever hesitate to send a

note of appreciation just to let someone

know how truly special they are. Unexpected

notes are always wonderful to receive.

Birthday cards: Celebrate one’s personal accomplishments

in the past year and any special

events planned in the next year ahead.

End by telling your friend or loved one why

he or she is so important to you. That message

may just be the best gift you can give.

Celebratory cards: When acknowledging

the birth of a baby or the recent wedding

of a friend or relative, pick a card they will

want to save and treasure for years to come.

When writing your sentiment inside, keep

congratulations simple and let them know

you share in their joy.

Photos courtesy of Daniel Afzal

New job: Starting a job at a new company or changing one’s career

path can be a time for renewal and exciting beginnings. A sincere

message wishing a friend or loved one luck and adding advice that

he or she might find helpful is often a welcome message to show

someone you care.

Condolence cards: If a friend is going through a difficult time, share

special memories you have of the person who passed away and

why you will miss having that person in your life. End by offering to

call or visit in the near future. These gestures, plus the card itself,

will reminder the recipient they aren’t alone in their grief.

Remember, cards and notes are about letting another person know

how much their friendship, gifts or presence means to you. Follow

a simple formula, add a few personal touches and you will soon be

writing cards with ease.


THISISTHEFACEOF

APUPPYMILLDOG

WWW.CAPS-WEB.ORG

GettheFactsaboutthePetShop-Pup

pyMillConnection

Sparkle for the

Holiday

Season

The holiday season is filled with a whirlwind of parties and special

events. Be prepared to head out the door and look your best all

evening long with these beauty tips.

Add some sparkle. Bold accessories can transform your look entirely,

allowing you to wear that little black dress to more than one

party. For a timeless silhouette, pair a sleek strapless dress with

oversized earrings that sparkle. A little black dress is the perfect

look for a statement necklace. Just don’t pair large earrings with

an oversized necklace. Pick one or the other and you’ll be ready

to dazzle.

Add a little glamour. Planning to attend a special soiree? Up

your beauty routine with a darker evening look. Pair a daring red

lipstick with a thin stroke of dark eyeliner. Keep your eyelashes

dark and the rest of your look minimal to draw all eyes in the

room.

Whiten and brighten. Festive coffee drinks, red wine and fruity

cocktails make holiday events special but they can quickly stain

teeth. Keep your smile ready for the annual family picture and

party perfect using ARM & HAMMER Whitening Booster, which

is clinically proven to whiten teeth in just one week. Simply apply

over your toothpaste and brush as normal. With 3X more whitening

agent than a leading whitening strip, your smile will be ready

for any occasion. Learn more at www.armandhammer.com.

Keep locks classic. This year’s blockbuster movies caught the

attention of celebrities and fashionistas with their glamorous

hairstyles. Get the look, without appearing too retro, by using

styling gel to work short hair into sculpted finger waves. Those


Family Features

with longer hair should sweep it up into a loose knot and add a

thin headband.

Give your nails some shine. Beautiful bracelets and rings will

draw attention to your hands. Keep them looking beautiful with a

fresh manicure and the right shade of polish. A perfect manicure

will also set off the one holiday accessory everyone must have – a

cute clutch.

Bring beauty tools along. When you pack your clutch for a

night of celebrating, make sure to include the necessities. Stay

shine-free and party picture ready with pressed powder. Also

include a small toothbrush and a travel sized toothpaste, such

as ARM & HAMMER Advance White with Stain Defense. Baking

soda gently removes plaque and surface stains with a deep cleaning

action, while the Stain Defense technology helps prevent

new stains from setting. Slip in a concealer, color for your lips and

a small comb for quick touch-ups and you’re ready to go out and

celebrate the season.

Holiday photos and family gatherings may not always call for

a glitzy look but you still need to look your best. Look great all

season by taking care of yourself. Stay hydrated and use plenty

of moisturizer to give your skin a healthy glow. Keep your hair

looking its best by using a great conditioner weekly throughout

the party season. Follow these tips and you will be ready for any

event this holiday season.


Fashion & Style

Left to right

Noire Hinged Bracelet

Bracelet from the Heir Collection. Oxidized

Sterling Silver with Silk Chain and Black

Diamond Crystal. 7.25".

Noire Eyelet Winged Necklace

Necklace from the Heir Collection. Oxidized

Sterling Silver with Black Diamond Crystal.

Adjustable 16"-18".

Noire Eyelet Freshwater Pearl Necklace

Necklace from the Heir Collection. Oxidized

Sterling Silver with Peacock Freshwater

Pearls, Faceted Onyx and Black Diamond

Crystal. 32".

Blanche Wide Jeweled Cuff

Cuff from the Heir Collection.

Available in Sterling Silver or

18K Gold with 2mm Diamonds

and 2mm Freshwater Pearls.

MIGNON FAGET

Left to right

Blanche Curl Earstuds (2)

Stud earrings from the Heir Collection.

Available in Sterling Silver or 18K Gold.

Blanche Flora Diamond Pendant

Pendant from the Heir Collection. Available in

Sterling Silver or 18K Gold with a 2mm Diamond.

Silk ribbon sold separately.

The HEIR Collection is inspired by

vintage lace swatches discovered by

Mignon in her mother's cedar chest.

Split into two groups, Blanche and

Noire, Heir demonstrates that lace

can be both delicate and alluring,

reexamines fashion traditions and

explores the heirloom in a personal

and modern direction. Blanche Narrow Cuff (2)

Top to bottom

Cuff from the Heir Collection. Available

in Sterling Silver or 18K Gold.

Blanche Narrow Ring

Ring from the Heir Collection. Available

in Sterling Silver or 18K Gold. *18K

Gold price varies with ring size.

Photos by Glade Bilby II

Blanche Ring Pendant

Pendant from the Heir Collection. Available in

Sterling Silver or 18K Gold. Triple Toggle Chain

sold separately.


www.mignonfaget.com


Fashion & Style

A collection inspired by the dandy neck ruffs so in fashion

during this period of grandeur, as well as by the complex

and precise work of the lace cuffs of the clothing at the

time. Pieces of great originality due to the voluminous and

serpentine shapes that represent one of the most identifying

symbols of the Spanish Empire.

www.carreraycarrera.com

Staff

PickS

2013

At Jaeger-LeCoultre, women have an on-going rendezvous with

time. The Manufacture in the Vallée de Joux crystallises within its

feminine creations the encounter between Fine Watch making and

Fine Jewelry, dreaming up models that become an intimate part

of daily life, loyal confidantes at night and faithful companions

of exceptional moments. This year, the Rendez-Vous and Reverso

collections are reinventing themselves in order to further enhance

their appeal. Complicated, ultra-thin, mechanical: they embody a

concentrated blend of creative freedom, along with the horological

and hand-crafted expertise that has been guiding the history of

the Grande Maison for 180 years.

www.jaeger-lecoultre.com

Inspired collection set to create a

tone on tone sophistication of color

of your choosing. Mix and match

or double-layered this collection is

made to accentuate your waist and

your wardrobe.

www.keggy.com

Want To get a Charge out

of your purse try our Cell

Phone charging purse! A zippered

leather clutch purse that

conceals a lithium-ion polymer

battery that can recharge your

smartphone or tablet computer,

Kindle or Kobo! Each Purse comes

with adaptor cable, charging cable

and USB re-charge cable and adaptors

for iPhones 4 and 5. The battery has the

charge capacity to recharge your smart device

more than twice before needing to be

recharged itself. An LED charge indicator tells

you how much power is left in the purse. And

the Mighty Purse has functions you would find in

similar pouches: a credit card pocket, zippered coin

compartment as well as a hidden cable compartment

and comes in 12 fashion colors and is priced at $129

with free shipping available! The Perfect Purse That

Charges Your Cell Phone From Petunias of Naples,

852 5th Ave. South, Naples, 239-403-3550

Known for the essence of chic sophistication, Tiffany’s the premier

jeweler of elegant simplicity. Each creation is wrapped in the Tiffany

Blue Box® that makes hearts beat faster the world over. At holiday

time or any meaningful occasion, its presentation signals a magical

moment that will linger in memory for a lifetime.

www.tiffany.com


Style & Beauty

Staff

Picks

2013

Repêchage Spa Body Wash Travel Size: Aromatic,

soap-free foaming gel cleanses the body naturally

while conditioning all skin types. Infused with seven

natural essential oils including Orange, Lime, Coriander

and Mint and natural sea plants. Sea Spa Body Wash

makes the perfect addition to your bath or shower.

Leaves skin clean, smooth and hydrated.

www.Repêchage.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.

It’s sold for $95 at spas nationwide and select online retailers.

www.gmcollin.com

LANCÔME Exclusive & Limited Edition JASON WU COLLECTION

features beauty looks straight from his fall runway show—in his

signature grey packaging. ROUGE IN LOVE lipstick in Rue, St.

Honore. COLOR DESIGN SHADOW/LINER PALETTE in Violet

Streak. COLOR DESIGN INFINITE LUM INOUS EYESHADOW in

Extreme Espresso. DUAL -END SHADOW & LINER BRUSH #18.

DEFINICILS High Definition Mascara in Navy Blue. VERNIS IN

LOVE nail polish in Madame Tulipe. ART LINER NOIR.

www.nordstrom.com

Aspen Yoga Mats are custom embroidered yoga

mats that come in 5 colors with 5 embroidered

designs. Choose the color mat by reading about your

personality traits on our label. Match the color with

the embroidered design that speaks to you.

www.aspenyogamats.com

Kanshi Salted Mango Hand & Body Scrub: This gentle hand and

body scrub reveals smoother, younger looking skin. Leaves a

fresh clean Mango scent, while Sea Salts and Natural Loofah

exfoliate dull, dry skin, leaving it smoothed and conditioned.

www.Repêchage.com

CozyChic Throw - Khloe Kardashian and Kendall

Jenner enjoyed some relaxation time snuggling

up in Barefoot Dreams!

www.barefootdreams.com

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-fromwithin

glow.

www.MitoQ.com

Luxury skin care brand blending eastern skin care philosophy and

western dermatology. Amarte products follow a unique, multifaceted

regimen – cleanse, hydrate, rejuvenate and protect – designed to

bring out the clarity, brilliance, and beauty of every woman’s skin.

All products are dermatologist tested, approved, and recommended

by Dr. Kraffert himself.

www.amartecosmetics.com


Home

Office

& Culinary

Into media? This is a staff favorite, give a gift

to yourself or family member. Hulu Plus let’s you

carry your favorite shows everywhere for as

little as $7.99/month on multiple devices.

www.hulu.com/plus

Staff

Picks

2013

Today’s top smartphones can do just about everything,

and with the newest case from OtterBox,

they can go just about everywhere. From the No.

1 trusted case brand for smartphone protection

comes a new line that allows technology users

to embrace all the wet, messy, spontaneous fun

life has to offer. The OtterBox Preserver Series

allows smartphone users to take on life’s daily

adventures and extraordinary pursuits without

thinking about the safety of their devices.

www.otterbox.com

Imaging coming home from a stressful day at work and a long

commute home, to find a personal masseuse just waiting for

you to sit down and relax. Introducing the Shiatsu Neck and

Shoulder Massager, the perfect gift for your loved ones this

holiday season. It provides the ideal combination of deep,

soothing shiatsu massage enhanced with therapeutic heat, for

a soothing and tension-reducing experience.

www.drhonow.com

Introducing the new Samsung GALAXY Note 3, which shares a

smarter large screen experience and new S Pen features that

help to make everyday tasks easier and faster. With a smaller

footprint and lighter chassis, yet housing a generous 5.7" Full HD

Super AMOLED display, the GALAXY Note 3 provides a stunning

viewing experience. The GALAXY Note 3 is powered by a 2.3

GHz Quad-Core processor, 3GB of RAM, 3,200 mAh battery

and runs on Google's Android 4.3 Jelly Bean OS. The GALAXY

Note 3 also features a textured back cover and delicate stitching

that delivers a premium look and feel.

www.samsung.com

The Fresh Market invites everyone to stop by

your local store, get a recipe, pick up a book

and see one of their step-by-step presentations.

Ask questions and learn more from our Cooking

in Season with The Fresh Market Cookbook.

www.thefreshmarket.com


The flagship Epson Expression® Premium XP-810 Small-in-One

printer features an ultra-slim design without sacrificing performance.

The Expression XP-810 is backed by outstanding photo quality for

superior holiday cards and borderless portraits. In addition, the

printer is equipped with Epson Connect, making it easier than ever

to remotely print from computers, tablets or smartphones, whether

at home or out and about.

www.epson.com

Cold-EEZE Cold Remedy – recommended by Dr. Jennifer Collins,

New York based Physician specializing in Allergy, Asthma, and

Immunology - is a homeopathic cold remedy clinically proven to

shorten the duration of a cold by almost half! Its main ingredient,

zinc gluconate, relieves symptoms including cough, runny nose,

hoarseness, etc and is linked to boosting the immune system and

decreasing viral activity.

www.coldeeze.com

Melitta USA, a brand well-recognized for exceptional quality in

all aspects of coffee and coffee preparation. Producing a the full

range of gourmet coffee products for major retail chains and small

specialty stores across the country. Melitta has dedicated itself to

providing the ultimate coffee experience with its premium line of

coffee, coffee filters and high quality coffee makers, bringing

European indulgence to life. The company was founded in 1908

by Melitta Bentz, after receiving a patent for her coffee filtering

system consisting of a filter and filtration paper. The filter system

was the first to successfully remove coffee residue in the brewing

process, revolutionizing the way coffee was brewed.

www.melitta.com

The Epson Stylus Photo R2000 printer is perfect for printing

holiday cards, 13” x 19" photos and panoramas. With Epson

UltraChrome Hi-Gloss 2 eight-color pigment ink set, natural

skin tones and rich colors are effortlessly achieved. It also

prints onto canvas for textured gallery-quality prints of your

favorite family memories.

www.epson.com

Staff

Picks

2013

The New Wave Caffe “Cities of the World” Collection is the ideal gift

for world travelers, collectors and coffee drinkers alike. This beautiful

set features cities from around the globe. New York is dressed in yellow,

Rio de Janeiro in green, Tokyo in red and Sydney in blue. Each mug

is illustrated with many well-known points of interest in each location,

while the matching plate features a map of the city.

www.villeroy-boch.com

Italy’s renowned liquor brand DISARONNO has teamed up

with international fashion house MOSCHINO to unveil a new

and charitable design concept MOSCHINO loves DISARONNO,

which merges style with timeless taste.

Halo Sani-Cuffs – recommended by Dr. Karen Francios, New York

based physician and mother of two daughters – is a product that any

parent would want to arm their kids with this fall. Halo Sani-Cuffs

are comfortable, stylish, and collectible germ-fighting wristbands that

dispenses hand sanitizer at the push of a button. Halo Sani-Cuffs will

stop germs in their tracks and give parent’s piece-of-mind that their

kids are only an arm’s length away from killing cold & flu bacteria.

www.ARMORTERIA.com

Decorated in a classic, yet on trend heart pattern designed

by MOSCHINO, this special edition bottle and gift set flaunts

a striking color palette of red and black. Uniting the label’s

signature characteristics with the unmistakable silhouette of the

DISARONNO bottle, MOSCHINO loves DISARONNO is the

perfect gift and staple for a fashionista’s liquor cabinet.

Giving back in more ways in than one, a portion of proceeds

from the MOSCHINO loves DISARONNO project will support

the United Nation’s sponsored charity Fashion 4 Development

with their efforts in Africa. The overall mission of Fashion 4

Development is to harness the power of the fashion and beauty

industries in order to implement creative strategies for sustained

economic growth and development in countries worldwide.

www.disaronno.com


Mobility

Staff

Picks

2013

The Tesla Motors Model S has made such a statement over the past

several months, winning many accolades and earning praises for

performance, practicality and safety. It is easy to see why the Model

S is such a staff favorite. Being a “true” green energy vehicle, the

Model S is an attractive, great handling, roomy and quiet car. The

performance package gives over 400hp, while the base model has

302hp, which will get you to 60mph in less than six seconds. The

Model S has really quick acceleration at highway speeds which many

vehicles cannot do, when attempting to pass. You will be pulled back

into your seat, like you're on a roller coaster.

With a large array of standard features, you’ll be hard pressed not to

love this vehicle. Take into account the savings on fuel cost for the

next few years and you’ll see why the Model S is an attractive option.

One member stated, “It’s like they’re giving you free fuel” with the

launch of Supercharging stations around the nation. You can drive

from location to location without buying a drop of fuel. Tesla Motors

gives you ranger service (at your home), 8 year warranty, and an

almost maintenance free vehicle. All we can say is if you have not

seen this vehicle, get out and take a test drive.

www.teslamotors.com

Photos courtesy of Tesla Motors

Sunreef Yachts continues growing in the catamaran design sector. Its

in-house design office, employing young and talented designers, is

located within the shipyard to make the design process smoother and

more efficient.

Offering a large variety of long range, ultra-modern, high-performance

luxury catamarans, power and sail for your boating destinations. You

also have the option of chartering a craft for exotic getaways. Always

expanding and bringing insight into the industry, from lightweight

catamaran’s made of carbon fiber and glass panels for sailing to a

new Volvo IPS for maneuvering your luxury catamaran with ease.

Sunreef’s extensive knowledge and commitment to its community allows

them to build impeccable craft, offering ready-to-go vessels that

can be operated by a single person.

Within their design process Sunreef provides large windows that fill

the area with natural light and ensure wonderful views and excellent

visibility when aboard. Their yachts offer natural stability, low fuel

consumption, superb living space and customization of interior allow

clients an unlimited range of finish possibilities with the Sunreef’s

designer’s expertise and advice. As you would expect, the attention

to detail and quality of finish throughout the completion process is of

the highest standard.

Photos courtesy of Sunreef Yachts

www.sunreef-yachts.com


Save on Costly

Engine Repairs


The sticker on your car’s windshield serves as a constant reminder

that every car eventually has to be taken to get its oil changed.

Go too long and a bright red indicator light will also start demanding

attention.

If you’re ever tempted to ask if all of those oil changes are really

necessary, consider the important work oil performs for your

engine.

Keep your motor running

Motor oil lubricates and cools the moving parts in your car’s

engine. Without clean oil your engine’s metal-on-metal components

can grind against each other, causing extensive wear. So,

not having clean oil and the proper amount of oil can have serious

consequences.

Even if oil is present, there’s no guarantee it will properly protect

an engine against damage. If you decide to forego changing the

oil according to your car’s maintenance schedule, dirt, sludge

and varnish can build up leading to serious damage or, even, an

engine replacement.

Take time for a change

Extended oil change intervals are the number one cause of sludge

and varnish build up. Motor oil degrades over time due to heat,

pressure and contamination. Check the owner’s manual for the

manufacturer’s recommended oil change interval for your vehicle

and remember, oil is the lifeblood of your engine.

Conventional oil changes leave as much as 10 to 20 percent of

metal wear particulates, dust and other contaminants behind.


Using an oil system cleaner, like Synergyn XTrA MPG Oil Change

System Cleaner a day before any routine oil change will provide

a more complete cleaning of your oil system helping to eliminate

out unwanted metals, gums and varnishes that can lead to oil

contamination. One day prior to your next oil change, just add the

oil change system cleaner, and then change the oil and filter.

Inspect for potential problems

Most cars are designed for easy oil change maintenance so if you

don’t change your own oil, take this product to your professional

service installer. Those who like to do the job themselves should

always pop open the hood and inspect the car for fluid levels and

leakage, cracked or frayed belts and bulging hoses.

Next, inspect for broken or worn parts that can’t be seen from

above. For protection from other issues that can’t be seen, add

the oil change system cleaner a day before changing the oil.

It frees sticky valves and lifters, cleans gum and varnish from

internal parts, improves oil circulation, increases lubricity, reduces

friction, restores engine performance, and improves fuel economy.

After that, add Synergyn XTrA MPG Engine Treatment when you

change your oil and filter and let your engine run for 20-30 minutes

to let the engine treatment circulate in your car’s oil system.

Finally, don’t forget to rotate the tires after every third oil change.

Visit any reputable auto repair garage or lube shop to have all of

these inspections and maintenance tasks performed during your

car’s oil change. They’ll also dispose of the dirty, used oil for you.

www.synergynusa.com

Family Features

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)

i

intelligent

By Mai Yomioto

With its ultra-dynamic proportions, elegantly sporty lines, low-slung silhouette

and innovative design features, the BMW i8 represents a new generation

of sports car. Bringing together hallmark features of the BMW brand

with the design language developed especially for BMW i cars creates a

progressive aesthetic which faithfully communicates the performance attributes,

efficiency and innovative premium character of the plug-in hybrid

sports car.

The plug-in hybrid drive system of the BMW i8, which comprises a BMW

TwinPower Turbo engine combined with BMW eDrive technology, offers the

best of both worlds: excellent potential for improved efficiency and exciting,

sporty driving characteristics. The BMW Group has developed not only the

internal combustion engine and electric motor in-house but also the power

electronics and the battery. This ensures that all these components offer

high product and quality standards, based on the outstanding capabilities of

the BMW Group in the field of power train research and development. The

revolutionary character of the BMW i8 is emphasized by a further innovation:

the use of an internal combustion engine which is making its debut in

this model. The BMW i8 is the first BMW production model to be powered

by a three-cylinder petrol engine. This highly turbocharged unit is equipped

with latest-generation BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. It is exceptionally

compact and develops maximum of 231 hp from its 1.5-litre displacement.

The resulting specific output of 154 hp per liter of displacement is on a par

with high-performance sports car engines and is the highest of any engine

produced by the BMW Group.

The design of the BMW i8 body is as groundbreaking as the plug-in hybrid

sports car’s concept as a whole. Hallmark BMW dynamics, lightweight design

and efficiency are all expressed in the car’s proportions, lines and surface

design. The 2+2-seater is immediately recognizable as a BMW i model

and a new-generation sports car.

A signature feature of BMW i cars is the “black belt”. On the BMW i8, it

emerges in a “V” shape from the bonnet and extends back over the roof

into the rear section of the car, where it frames the centre section of the

rear apron. At the front end, the black belt is framed by the body-colored

apron and side panels, while at the rear it is overlapped by the “floating”

roof pillars, which extend over the rear lights. Another element of the

standalone BMW i design language is the “stream flow” contour of the side

window graphic. On the BMW i8 the stream flow also determines the path

travelled by the air between the falling roofline and the character line rising

through the rear section of the car’s flanks towards the rear spoiler lip.

The key to this versatility is the innovative LifeDrive architecture, which

opens up an exceptional degree of freedom for the design of BMW i cars.

The central element of the Life module is the carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic

(CFRP) passenger cell. The Life module is fixed to the aluminum Drive

module, which houses all the drive and chassis technology. This distinctive

two-way split is reflected on both the outside and the inside of the car by

the visible layering and intertwining of different surfaces, with three-dimensional

and flowing transitions between the Life module and Drive module

accentuating the dynamic appearance of the BMW i8.

The launch of the BMW i8 sees the world’s first sports car to be developed

from the ground up under the banner of sustainability complete its journey

from vision to reality. Both the exterior and interior of the emotionally-led

2+2-seater embody a revolutionary, pioneering take on the Sheer Driving

Pleasure for which BMW is renowned. Clean, minimalist lines and homogeneous

surfaces defined by a small number of precise edges and function-focused

details underline the status of the BMW i8 as the most forward-looking

car in its segment. As the second series-produced BMW i model on the

road, the BMW i8 also reveals the versatility of the design language which

is establishing itself as an unmistakable signature of BMW i cars. Its design

signals lightness, safety, efficiency and pure driving pleasure – stand-out

qualities that the BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car shares with the BMW i3,

its pure-electric sibling conceived for agile and comfortable urban driving.

The instrument panel of the BMW i8, with its horizontal lines emphasizing

the width of the interior and a structure determined by the “layering” principle,

creates a light yet powerful impression. The arrangement of the overlapping,

three-dimensional segments is complemented by a contrast-rich

color scheme. The layering approach also finds its way, through dynamically

curving lines, into the design of the centre console, which is home to the

gearshift lever, the Controller for the iDrive operating system, the start/

stop button, the eDrive button and the Driving Experience Control switch.

The iDrive system’s Control Display comes in a freestanding 8.8-inch format.

A bespoke sports steering wheel with multifunction buttons and the

Navigation system Professional are included as standard in the BMW i8.

Also standard is the multifunction instrument display, whose content and

presentation formats take their cue from the driving mode selected.


Available as alternatives to the standard Neso trim for the BMW i8 interior

are the Carpo and Halo equipment lines. In standard specification, the contrast

between black surfaces in the cockpit and light Carum Grey leather

surfaces emphasizes the lightness and sustainability of this vehicle concept.

The leather surfaces of the door and side trim are complemented by functional

textile highlights made from recycled material. The optional Carpo

equipment line is available in light or dark versions. The naturally treated

leather surfaces feature perforated elements and subtle contrast stitching

which underline the superior character of the material and workmanship

involved. Painted surface elements on the instrument panel, door trim and

centre console add the finishing touches to the cutting-edge ambience. The

likewise optional Halo equipment line brings a pervasive aura of luxury and

sustainability to the interior of the BMW i8. Top-quality leather surfaces

combine with textile accents and contrast stitching in BMW i Blue. And when

it comes to the color scheme, dark Dalbergia Brown and light Carum Grey

provide attractive contrasts. The Halo line also brings high-class paintwork

to selected instrument panel and door trim surfaces. The accent ring for the

leather steering wheel comes in BMW i Blue in the Halo equipment line and

in Satin Silver in the other variants. With the BMW i8, drivers can enjoy life

at the wheel.


Exclusive

Masterpiece

by Mai Yomioto

As a further highlight of its 50th anniversary year, Automobili Lamborghini

is presenting one of the most exceptional super sports cars of all time.

The Lamborghini Veneno Roadster is an open racing prototype with an

extreme design and breathtaking performance. And it is one of the world’s

most exclusive automobiles – not more than nine units will be built during

the course of 2014.

The Veneno Roadster is extreme and guarantees an intense driving

experience – because open means truly open. There is no roof, just a

strong rollover bar for optimum safety. The design is focused on optimum

aerodynamics and stability through fast corners – with handling akin to

that of a racing prototype. Yet it is fully road legal.

With a maximum output of 750 hp, the Veneno Roadster accelerates from

0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds and top speed stands at 221 mph. The

Lamborghini Veneno Roadster is driven by a twelve-cylinder engine with a

displacement of 6.5 liters and is equipped with the extremely fast-shifting

ISR transmission with five modes, permanent all-wheel drive and a racing

chassis with pushrod suspension and horizontal spring/damper units.

The Lamborghini Veneno Roadster brings the aerodynamic efficiency of

a racing prototype to the road. Every detail of its form pursues a clear

function – exceptional dynamics, optimum downforce with minimal drag

and perfect cooling of the high-performance engine. Therfore the Veneno

Roadster is unmistakably a Lamborghini; it sticks firmly to the consistent

design philosophy of all the super sports cars from Sant’Agata Bolognese.

That includes the extreme proportions, as well as the powerfully arrowshaped

front end and the interplay between razor-sharp lines and precise

surfaces.

The entire design of the Lamborghini Veneno Roadster has been laid out

for perfect airflow and downforce. The front end works as a large aerodynamic

wing. The visual division of the rear fenders from the car body is a

reference to the world of racing cars and optimizes the aerodynamic flow.

The smooth underbody transitions into a substantial diffuser framing the

four sizable exhaust pipes divided by a splitter. Large openings serve to

ventilate the engine bay and direct airflow to the rear wing. The design

of the adjustable rear wing is the product of motorsport experience and

extensive aerodynamic simulation to ensure optimum airflow in the interaction

of the rear wing with the rear diffuser.

The design of the exclusive alloy wheels is also determined by aerodynamic

functionality – a carbon-fiber ring around the wheel rim works like a

turbine to deliver additional cooling air to the carbon-ceramic brake discs.

The intense paint color “Rosso Veneno” was developed exclusively for the

Veneno Roadster, although each single customer will be able to individualize

his own vehicle to suit his personal preferences.

The Veneno Roadster is further proof of Automobili Lamborghini’s unique

competence in CFRP-based lightweight design. A monocoque made from

carbon-fiber reinforced polymer forms the basis of the Roadster. All exterior

parts are made from CFRP. The Veneno Roadster meets all safety and

registration requirements worldwide, and naturally also incorporates a full

complement of safety systems from airbags through to the adapted ESP

handling system.

Carbon fiber dominates also the interior of the Veneno Roadster. The

carbon fiber monocoque is visible inside the car around the central tunnel

and the sills. The two lightweight bucket seats are made from Lamborghini’s

patented Forged Composite. The woven carbon-fiber CarbonSkin

is used to clad the entire cockpit, part of the seats and the headliner.

Like a hi-tech fabric, this extremely fine-looking carbon-fiber matting fits

perfectly to any form and reduces the weight of the vehicle.

The systematic, carbon-fiber, lightweight design of the Veneno Roadster is

not only visible, it is also evident on the scales: with a dry weight of just

3,278 pounds, the Veneno Roadster benefits from a power-to-weight ratio

of just 4.38 lbs/hp which guarantees a performance that is nothing short

of mind-blowing. Even the stunning acceleration figure of 2.9 seconds

cannot adequately describe it. Despite an aerodynamic setup configured

for extreme down force, the Veneno Roadster possesses exceptionally low

wind resistance which allows it to reach a top speed of 221 mph.


"

Watch making is just like the cinema, it

hides a precise mechanism which must

then generate emotion. The world of

ROGER DUBUIS, the arrival of its collections,

like spaces of freedom, perfectly

matches my principles. You need to

take chances in life. And always push

yourself.

"

Gerard Butler


Calm


before the storm

by Mai Yomioto

Staff

Pick

2013

You’ll feel your heart rate increase, your pupils will sharpen

and a smile lighten your face, as you walk by a the Pagani

Huayra. A creative process of meaning and attitude, nothing

spared or undelivered. The Huayra is an engineering

and artistic automotive masterpiece, now available in the

U.S.A.

It is said that ancient legends of the Aymara tell us of Huayra

Tata, god of wind, who commands the breezes, winds, and

blizzards that invade the mountains, cliffs and hills of the

Andean highlands. It is told that Huayra Tata resides deep

in the high peaks and valleys, abandoning them only to

demonstrate his power to his wife, Pachamama, goddess

of mother earth. With his power Huayra Tata was able to lift

the waters from lake Titicaca and rain them down on the

fertile Pachamama. When Huayra Tata sleeps, the waters

and rivers lay quiet.

The eternity of the element air, gentle and refined, yet the

strength of the wind it is able to erode even the toughest of

materials giving birth to distinctive shapes known in nature.

Elegant and muscular the Huayra merges the past, present

and future in a timeless interpretation of automotive art.

The styling of the car was perfected over the course of 5

years to find each line’s beginning and end, each an evolution

of the previous in a never ending quest to perfect the

form and refining the substance. Each piece is seamlessly

integrated into the elliptical shape of the design, becoming

a characteristic of the Pagani element. Made from carbontitanium

to achieve the highest levels of rigidity through the

application of newly advanced materials and technologies,

made of different composite and ballistic materials.

As soon as the doors are closed the Huayra transports the

occupants to a new dimension; a world that pleases and

surprises the senses. Having everything at arm’s length is

not close enough for a vehicle with the capabilities of the

Huayra. Consequently, the driver will find all primary functions

directly on the steering wheel. The gearshift paddles

are mounted directly to the steering wheel so the driver

never needs to take his hands off the steering wheel. The

seats provide both the comfort to make long trips enjoyable

as well as the lateral support required when the g-forces

build up on extreme driving.

A Pagani is able to present drivers with state of the art solutions

while still drawing on the rich history that precedes

it. The ever present emphasis is on a living breathing being

rather than a digital one. This can be seen in everything

from the leather latches to the toggle switches, but

this ethos finds its purest expression in the mechanical aluminum

gearlever assembly, a monument to the art of the

manual gearshift; progress that does not deny the past. The

aluminum dashboard takes inspiration from the most complex

Swiss watch designs and includes a central Multi-Function

Display displaying performance relevant information

when SPORT mode is engaged and a trip computer when the

COMFORT mode is activated. The aluminum center console

is machined from one solid block of aluminum and features

a clarinet style array of mechanical switches controlling the

HVAC system. The high definition central touch screen is the

heart of the vehicle infotainment system, controlling audio

functions, satellite navigation, secondary vehicle functions

and Bluetooth phone.

At the heart, sits a 60 degree 12 cylinder turbocharged engine

by Mercedes-AMG. As with the calm of the wind and

harmony of driving one of the world’s most refined GT car

is interrupted when the driver calls upon the Huayra to unleash

its 730 horsepower. Offering immediate response to

the slightest throttle input, giving the driver full control over


the engine at any rpm and preventing unwanted delays in the

delivery of power. The engine’s systems have been designed

and tested to stand up to the most adverse conditions of temperature

and performance. The Huayra has been subjected to

the highs of Death Valley and the lows of the Arctic Circle. The

two lateral radiators are positioned in the front to guarantee

the best cooling efficiency of the intercoolers placed over the

cylinder heads.

Pirelli say “Power is nothing without control” and to assure complete

control for the driver Pirelli has developed the bespoke P

Zero tires, specifically for the Huayra. These PZero tires are built

in a dedicated MIRS (Modular Integrated Robotized System)

facility, dedicated to the production of ultrahigh performance

tires and are at the forefront of what is technically possible.

The power and prodigious torque generated by Huayra’s V12

are transferred to the wheels through a transverse sequential

seven speed gearbox and a dual plate clutch and lightweight

gearbox. Keeping the weight of the rear overhang as low as possible

has been a priority as we aim for a neutral behavior at the

limit.

The aerodynamic concept of the Huayra is that of a wing. The

vehicle can modify the properties of this wing by varying the

front ride height, which can be adjusted dynamically, and by adjusting

the 4 control flaps on each of the four corners of the car.

The goal is to have a neutral vehicle behavior under all conditions

and control body roll via aerodynamic means. The behavior

of the flaps is managed by a dedicated control unit that is

fed information from the ABS and ECU, which pass information

about the car’s speed, yaw rate, lateral acceleration, steering

angle and throttle position. The system improves aerodynamic

efficiency in a variety of driving conditions, where a low drag

coefficient is not the determining factor. During braking, for

example, the rear flaps and the front suspension are raised to

counteract the weight transfer and balance the weight distribution

between front and rear axles, allowing a better use of

the rear brake force. Another vital design tenant for the Huayra

project was to ensure clean airflow over the body of the car. The

shape of the two engine air intakes behind the occupants shoulders

are a tribute to the supersonic aircraft of the late 1950s

and 1960s, but also allow the motor breath without disrupting

the flow.

The intake for the gearbox radiator is located between the engine

bay window and the carbon clamshell of the rear bonnet,

which provides an excellent airflow to the radiator without having

a substantial impact on aerodynamic drag. This decision

also led to the omission of a rear wing, replaced by the movable

flaps. The flow of air through the car was also carefully studied.

The radiators are angled to contribute downforce and provide

the best flow for hot air to be extracted. Air from the central

radiator is extracted by vents on the front bonnet and through

the front wheelhouses. Air from the side radiators is channeled

to ducts cooling the brake discs and wheel hubs. This air blows

onto the brakes at a temperature of approximately 50°C warming

the brakes up when cold and improving the first bite significantly.

Lateral air outlets behind the front wheels generate

a negative pressure inside the wheelhouse providing efficient

extraction to lower the drag coefficient and generate downforce

on the front. In addition to the downforce generated by the flaps

and body, two high negative pressure areas were designed into

the shape of the underbody and the diffuser at the rear, thus enhancing

the aerodynamic stability and guaranteeing the Huayra

downforce under all circumstances.

Pagani quality method expands beyond the technical and technological

perfection and includes the artistic and design quality.

Quality is born with the drawing, with shape, before reaching the

technology. Art and science must walk together, hand in hand…

www.pagani.com


Bespoke

Phantom

by Mai Yomioto

With the talents of the world’s finest automotive designers and

craftspeople at a customer’s disposal, inspiration for a Bespoke

Rolls-Royce can strike anywhere.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Dubai Brand Manager, Mohammed EL-

Arishy’s imagination was piqued whilst dining at the Goodwood

Hotel, adjacent to the Home of Rolls-Royce. Photographs of motor

racing greats negotiating the historic Goodwood motor circuit

drew his eye. A consultation with Rolls-Royce’s Bespoke design

team followed:

“I wanted to create a motor car that captures the unique atmosphere

and history of the Goodwood Motor Circuit. The Home of

Rolls-Royce’s connection to such an important centre of British

motoring heritage is something that fascinates my customers,”

said Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Dubai Brand Manager, Mohammed

EL-Arishy. “The experience of working with Rolls-Royce’s

world-class designers to create the beautifully executed Chicane

Phantom Coupé was exhilarating. The creativity, vision, skill and

attention-to-detail employed in the crafting of these one-off motor

cars is unsurpassed in the super-luxury world.”

The result, the one-of-a-kind Chicane Phantom Coupé incorporates

design cues and materials that evoke Goodwood’s rich

motor sport history.

A traditional interior wood-finish makes way for carbon fiber,

alluding to the materials used in modern racing machines. This

highly contemporary theme extends to the exterior of the car,

with the bonnet and windscreen surround finished in a matte

black, perfectly complementing the Gunmetal exterior paint.


Colored wheels matching the main exterior paint finish are also specified, the first time such a feature has adorned a

contemporary Rolls-Royce motor car.

Hand-crafted details throughout allude to the car’s historic motor racing theme with checkered flag motif stitching to

the seats echoed on the exterior with a matching Bespoke coach line. The elegant homage is completed with a metal

plaque expressing the car’s name and Goodwood’s famous track layout located discreetly in the glove compartment.

This is not the first time an unexpected spark of inspiration has taken a Rolls-Royce customer; commissions have

included an exterior paint color perfectly matched to a favorite eye shadow and a wood-veneer sourced from a tree

on a customer’s estate.

www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com

“Customers often task us with designing cars themed around

a particularly passion or interest. The customer leads the

creative process, working in collaboration with us to create a

highly personal, one-off masterpiece. As Bespoke designers

we take great satisfaction in turning these dreams into reality,”

said Gavin Hartley, Bespoke Design Manager.


Sexy

and

fast

Staff

Pick

2013

by Mai Yomioto

One of our favorites and the sexiest yacht for 2013 is the Pershing 115 and 108 from the Ferretti Group. Many factors weighed

heavily in the selection of these sport yachts, like room, comfort, features, speed and fun.

Both the 115 and the 108 stand out among other yachts, even yachts much larger. This is not only due to its sexy, 007 lines, but

Pershing Yachts signature silver metallic color. From its stylish lines and comfort, these yachts state an heir of refinement and

elegance; knowing your cruising along in your Phantom and at any moment transforming into an Aventador.

This is not your normal yacht, and the design team at Ferretti made sure of that. The 115 and 108 are unique among other

craft, and fits the person who likes exceptional comfort with the agility of a black panther. The lines of these yachts just looks

good even standing still, you can’t help but look. One staff member commented that it “Looks like it belongs to an F1 driver.”

It grabs your attention as you approach it, even from a distance. The exterior looks embellish on its muscular power, but once

inside you find a satisfying array of luxurious appointments. With high levels of innovation, the materials included are distinctive

among yachts of this class and even ones much bigger. Simply put, this is your modern home away from home; with traditional

elements fit for everyone on board to enjoy.

You have room for crew, family and friends, never feeling like you stepped aboard a standard yacht. There is room for 10, along

with a crew of three. They both allows for open air cruising on the fly bridge for enjoying the environment, with room for your

tender, diving equipment and some jet ski’s or additional items.


Pershing 115

Pershing 108


Pershing Yachts allows you to customize the yacht to your personal

liking with stylistic and pioneering components that fit your lifestyle.

There is so much that can be said about these yachts and the ease

it affords for any yachtsman to navigate waterways or open water.

Equipped with innovative technology, this beautiful creature of the

seas offers domotics system, which manages audio, video and lighting

systems directed from any connected mobile device making entertainment

simple and convenient, while you are on board or otherwise.

The elegance that distinguishes its interior design is characterized by

the essence of textures, and distinctive metallic exterior, sets it apart

from so many other yachts. Luxurious stones, woods, glass and soft

leather surfaces are designed and placed pleasingly though out the

craft. The galley “Kitchen”, has clean lines and is roomy with lots of

storage for your favorite culinary delights and wine collection is quite

impressive.

What makes these yachts so sexy? It’s size, design, speed and maneuverability on

the water. With a cruising speed of 37 knots, you will get to know why being aboard

feels so superb. At this speed and more, you can enjoy conversations with friends as

you cruise to your next location. The interior is almost completely silence as Pershing

Yachts has done a great job in isolating the sound within the living areas at high

cruising speeds, which is not an easy task for yachts of this size.

Being at the helm and taking control is easily; you have the option of manual or better

yet set it to full auto with pre-configured setting and put on the power. As speed increases

the yacht sets everything up for you and even positions itself for the best fuel

consumption. All you need to do is steer in the direction you wish to travel and keep

putting on the power and then all of a sudden, you’ll see that wonderful rooster tail

(Pershing 108) shooting up over 10 feet in the air, made so famous with high speed

boats, due to the three surface props propelling this yacht forward.

Photos courtesy of Ferretti Group America

Both of these yachts deliver extraordinary performance and very few will even keep

up with this line from Pershing Yachts. When taking a run in the Pershing 108, we

reached a speed of 44 knots in comfort, with an interior noise of 71db, this is average

for your road going vehicle. Doing the same run in the Pershing 115, we accelerated

to a clean 54 knots; which can be maintained (fuel adjusted) to whichever destination

you’re pointing this bullet, as the 115 was fitted with the optional high-powered gas

turbine. And let me say, it is still a comfortable and very enjoyable ride. Both are very

nimble craft and feel like you’re driving much smaller yachts at these speeds.

Some watercraft will give you speed or comfort, but few will deliver both, put into

a very exclusive package. What’s so great; is the Pershing’s cruising speed is much

higher than most yachts top speed, giving you a cruising range of 450 nautical miles.

Yet, if you choose you can cruise at low speeds, knowing you’re aboard a yacht that

does many things very well. I didn’t get into the other features, knowing that the 115

and 108 are very well-equipped sport yachts that have the ability to offer both speed

and comfort, and be the sexiest yacht in any marina.

With the release of the new 62 this year and the 82, Pershing Yachts stays close to its

prime direction of offering luxury boating with the added pressure of getting to your

private location just that much faster.

www.pershing-yacht.com


You've

got it...

by Giovanni Bogetto

With Azimut Atlantis 50, the Atlantis models will flank the Collections

Magellano, Flybridge, S and Grande. The path towards the union of

the names Atlantis and Azimut Yachts ends with success, allowing the

Azimut|Benetti Group to offer 5 collections, the widest range of yachts up

to 120 feet, under the single brand name of Azimut Yachts.

Photos courtesy of Azimut Yachts

For now, let's discover a few details about this new craft, creating a new

era. Azimut Atlantis 50 follows in the wake of the Atlantis 48, a model already

greatly appreciated for the quality of its design, its functionality and

for the optimization of its internal and external spaces. It offers a series of

innovations, conceived once again by the outstanding Neo Design team,

that render the craft even more versatile and exciting to handle.

In line with the philosophy behind the Atlantis range of sports cruisers,

it is designed to maximize the pleasures of navigation and the livability

of its external spaces by improving, with respect to other slightly smaller

models, the functionality of the extra space available and, above all, the

rational organization of the furnishings.

The main deck, in fact, is all on one level with only a few steps separating

it from the bathing platform and offers the possibility of creating a more

intimate atmosphere, with a three- leaf glass door separating the internal

and external spaces.

During the day and when evening falls, enjoying contact with the sea

while sharing many happy moments with guests or family members

becomes a pleasure not to be missed. Perfect as an area in which to relax

or for dining outdoors, the cockpit has a comfortable sofa around a fixed

table for 6 people, as well as a chaise longue positioned under the large

opening hard top.

Another innovation is the stern sunbathing area, which has been enlarged

to create space for a bench seat and folding table and, above all, a garage

capable of housing your tender. When closed, the top of the garage forms

a spacious sunpad.

Furthermore, the design of the layout enables two alternative furnishing

solutions to be offered on the starboard side: the first version includes a

foldaway galley complete with sink, grill, fridge and icemaker; the second

version instead is in the form of a dinette with 32" retractable television

(hideaway) and another two person sofa.

With the optional third cabin supplementing the Owner's and VIP cabin,

the Azimut Atlantis 50 can accommodate from four to six guests. Furthermore,

and in line with the Atlantis tradition, the spaciousness and

extreme comfort of the below deck areas are the unmistakeable features

and strong points of each model, whatever its overall dimensions. The full

beam master cabin is located amidships, the ideal position for maximum

comfort, reducing any sensations of rolling or pitching to a minimum. A

wardrobe and chest of drawers complete the furnishings. The second

double cabin also has a large bed, two wardrobes and private access to

the elegantly finished bathroom with its separate shower unit. Both cabins

are bathed in natural light thanks to the panoramic windows and skylights.

The contemporary mood of the accommodation is interpreted by furnishings

and finishes in striped walnut that welcome guests to a warm

sophisticated ambience. The galley is also rather welcoming: the area

reserved for ‘cooking time’ is fully equipped with a sink, 4 ring ceramic

hob, fridge and microwave oven.

The new craft doesn't lack in power either. The Azimut Atlantis 50 is

fitted with two Cummins 600 hp engines that allow the yacht to reach a

maximum speed of 33 knots and cruise at 29 knots. The fuel tank has a

capacity of 449 gallons.

On the bow, accessed along a walkway well protected by handrails, there

is space for three people to sunbathe in comfort on the large sunpad,

leaving more than sufficient room for berthing or mooring operations to be

carried out in complete safety.


www.azimutyachts.com

Timeless design, superior construction quality, attention to onboard safety

and services: all this translates into a design concept that doesn’t skimp

on family enjoyment, both inside and out.

Contemporary Refinement

By Tony William

A representation to the philosophy and style of boating, the challenge is to offer original

solutions, seize new opportunities, and recognize future demands and emerging trends.

The profile radiates an impression of absolute beauty, thanks to a very definite outline

which magically softens on the sea: an ideal choice for a yacht which guarantees top

nautical performance and wishes to express elegance in every detail. This is contemporary

refinement which does not give in to minimalism. MCY 86 is a yacht in classic style,

without any concessions t o retro taste or aerodynamic excesses.

From the very first step onto the main deck, there is an immediate and extraordinary

sensation of space and comfort. The poop deck, fully sheltered by the extended flybridge,

offers guests a large surface area typical of larger boats. The presence of fashion plates

in glass and steel, so characteristic of Monte Carlo Yachts, further increases the sensation

of privacy on board.

It is here that the prow deck, a feature that is strongly representative of the range, finds

its greatest expression. The Portuguese deck leads to a beautiful and discreet living room

with splendid views over the sea. It is a true lounge which can be adapted for various uses

throughout the day on board. The large surface area is ideal for large sun loungers, comfortable

divan-style sofas and a table in the shade for savouring meals you have cooked

yourself and enjoying the sea view with your family and guests in a space which is both

open and private. You will be convinced you are on board a mega yacht: no other vessel

offers an area comparable to this.

The flybridge can be equipped with a large hydro-massage tub. The bar area, the openair

kitchen and the numerous sun-bathing and living areas can be protected by a carbon

T-top with an electrically operated soft-top, another feature typical of the MCY collection.

Inside, the drawing room confirms all the features highlighted on the outside areas: the

floor areas and sense of space expand even more in an atmosphere which just becomes

ever more luxurious and comfortable and provides an ideal setting for holding conversations

and chatting, entertaining, relaxing and dining with friends and guests. Another

brand new feature on an 86-foot vessel is the side platforms which can be opened. These

are available on both sides and can be transformed into exclusive terraces looking out

over the sea and offering an incomparable, unimpeded view across the horizon - even

from the inside.

Photos courtesy of Monte Carlo Yachts

Even below deck the layout is customized. In all the multiple variations available, spaces

are always generous and embellished with top quality materials. Maximum comfort is

paramount in the master cabin: a real full-beam suite with an ample study and large

walk-in closet.

In every area of the vessel, the unique style of Monte Carlo Yachts can be seen, underlined

by the choice of refined timber and materials, such as, for example, the white alabaster

of Volterra, cedar stone marble and moka cream limestone. Exquisite materials create a

refined elegance, including through contributions from the great international names in

fashion and design and the use of Venetian mosaics hand-crafted in Murano glass.

Knowing how to bring together a range of needs and desires, and then react and interact

effectively, with solutions that are constantly evolving through analysis and in-depth

discussions with boat owners. Monte Carlo Yachts Offers technical, living and aesthetic

solutions that simply cannot be found in other boats of the same category.

www.montecarloyachts.it


Becoming

More Relevant

By Ginny Grimsley

The percentage of Americans who have life insurance has hit a 50-

year low, despite the fact that more Americans than ever have grave

concerns about their ability to financially weather a crisis or to someday

retire, according to recent surveys.

That tells consumer advocate Ted Bernstein that people are unaware

of recent changes that make life insurance more affordable, more accessible,

and more relevant to today’s needs.

“The fact is, more of us need life insurance. Nearly half of all couples

are in dual-income households; if something happens to one spouse

or partner, the survivor is likely to have trouble paying the bills,” says

Bernstein, founder of Life Insurance Concepts, Inc., and a leading

proponent of innovations that benefit consumers.

“Add to that, 38 percent of Americans believe they won’t have enough

money to retire,” he says, citing a 2012 Pew Research survey. “Life

insurance provides that retirement income.”

Finally, he notes, large numbers of people who had corporate life

insurance lost it when they were laid off during the recession.

www.lifeinsuranceconcepts.com

“While some of those people are back to work, they’re at lower paying

jobs with fewer benefits. Now, they believe they can’t afford a

new policy, or they fear they may be rejected if they try to get an

individual policy,” Bernstein says. “Most of those people are wrong. In

fact, unless a person has serious health issues, buying an individual

policy -- not part of an employer program -- will cost less and offer

more benefits.”

Bernstein details four ways life insurance is becoming more accessible

and relevant:

• Don’t assume you’ll be rejected or pay more because you’re

overweight, use tobacco or marijuana infrequently, or have

been treated for substance abuse. Underwriters are trying to

determine whether lifestyle or medical issues affect your mortality

today, Bernstein says. So if you’re 30 pounds overweight with no

related medical issues, you have a good shot at standard coverage.

As for tobacco use, a blood test determines the amount of cotinine –

a byproduct of nicotine metabolism – in your system. A certain level

is acceptable to some carriers. Marijuana use may not automatically

trigger rejection if you have no associated issues. For those with a

past history of drug addiction and successful treatment, standard

coverage is possible. The key is disclosure.

• Getting older does not mean you automatically pay more.

The old rule was to buy young and lock in lower premiums, then

hang onto your policy for dear life. “That only benefited insurance

companies and the agent who sold the policy,” Bernstein says. Today,

healthy buyers will get more insurance for the same or less premium

by refinancing their existing coverage. “It’s a refi – use the built-up

equity, the cash value of your policy, to neutralize your older age.

Thanks to better mortality rates, healthy buyers always get better

coverage today than the policy they bought 10, 20 or 30 years ago,”

Bernstein says.

• You can save on premiums and provide guaranteed income

for your beneficiary by choosing the payout in installments.

Traditionally, life insurance claims are paid in one lump sum. The new

Installment Life Option is an innovation to meet the needs of people

without sufficient retirement savings, and for those concerned their

loved ones may lose the principal through mismanagement or a stock

market correction. “When the policy owner chooses a deferred payout

at the time of purchase, the insurance companies can reduce premiums

by as much as 50 percent because they will have more time to

pay the claim,” Bernstein says. “Plus, your beneficiary doesn’t have to

worry about managing a very large sum of money.”

• Purchasing no load insurance = better value across the

board. In the past, life insurance buyers had no option but to buy a

policy from companies with built-in commissions. These are nonnegotiable

and not disclosed to the buyer. While Bernstein strongly

recommends buying through a knowledgeable agent, he urges buyers

to inquire about “no load” policies priced without the built-in commissions.

“You pay a fee to the agent that is typically lower than built-in

commissions, and it’s transparent; making comparison much easier,”

Bernstein says.


Unnecessary

Financial Burdens

By Ginny Grimsley

Taxes account for the most expensive burden you’ll experience in

your lifetime, says engineer-turned-independent financial planning

coach Rao K. Garuda.

In addition to federal, state, city and death taxes, there are 59

other varieties. Relatively few taxes, however, account for the

bulk of the burden on citizens, says Garuda, whose clients include

retirees, people planning for retirement, physicians, business owners

and other professionals.

He thinks his fellow Americans deserve a shot at keeping more of

their money.

“When I came to the United States, I had less than $10 in my

pocket, but I had an excellent education as an engineer. When I

married a physician, I realized how expensive it is to make a good

living here,” says Garuda, who quickly applied his analytical engineering

mind to understanding the complicated tax system.

“Since this country has given me so much, I wanted to repay my

fellow Americans with strategies for keeping more of their own

money.”

Garuda identifies some of the most expensive and common tax

hurdles affecting Americans and offers advice on troubleshooting

our tax system.

• Problem: The IRA tax: great on the front end, terrible down

the road.

Solution: An IRA is tax-deferred, which means it will accumulate

value over time. But when you withdraw from it, you will be heavily

penalized with high taxes. That’s why you should convert this

asset to a Roth IRA, which allows your money to grow tax-free.

Since the money put in was already taxed you don’t have to pay

any taxes when you take it out, and, overall, you’ll save a significant

amount of money.

• Problem: Too many people don’t take advantage of creating

tax-free income via insurance products.

Solution: From a financial perspective, retirees and professional

planners run into a significant issue: seniors, blessed with

good health, who outlive their money. But with certain insurance

products, retirees can create tax-free income while covering the

later years of retirement – and protect their wealth if they become

severely ill. There are certain insurance products tied to the stock

market that can help people accumulate assets in the long run.

Many of these products offer a tremendous upside for potential

without the downside of increased risk.

www.aca-incorp.com

• Problem: Missed opportunities – people who don’t take advantage

of free money in a 401k.

Solution: Perhaps the company you work for is, like many others,

bureaucratic to the point of being impractical. Your employer

may not have done the best job communicating details about

benefits such as matching 401k contributions, or you may not

have taken the time to learn them. Now’s the time; this is free

money! If your employer is offering a 50 percent match on your

first 6 percent of contributions to the 401k, you should be contributing

at least 6 percent. Educate yourself on your company’s plan

so you can take full advantage.

Rao K. Garuda, CLU, ChFC, is president and CEO of Associated Concepts

Agency, Inc. – “The Missing Piece” of financial planning -- founded in 1978, and a

popular speaker at seminars and conferences for financial industry professionals.

He came to the United States from India 35 years ago with a degree in engineering

and, after marrying a physician, realized he had to learn how to reduce the

couple’s taxes. Disappointed in the financial advice he received from professionals,

he went to business school and developed expertise in tax reduction, and

protecting money from stock market losses. Rao is a founding member of First

Financial Resources, a national organization with over 75 partners in the USA;

a life member of the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT), and a life member of

MDRT’s Top of the Table for 21 consecutive years.

Buried in student

loans?

Cut your payments

up to 50% today.

Call 888-706-6176.

➧ STOP the harassing calls, and wage garnishments.

➧ END the stress of being late on payments!

WE CAN FIX YOUR

STUDENT LOAN

PROBLEMS OR YOU

DON’T PAY —

GUARANTEED.

• Cut your payments by as

much as 50%

• Get out of default

• Stop wage garnishments

• End the stress

• Get relief FAST


Toll Free Student Aid Assistance Line

888-706-6176

Dark Downsides for Retirement

IRAs and annuities are growing in popularity as retirement

investment options, according to recent surveys, but three

financial experts warn they can have serious disadvantages.

“Last year, four out of 10 U.S. households had IRA accounts

– that’s up from 17 percent two decades ago,” says CPA Jim

Kohles, chairman of RINA accountancy corporation, (www.rina.

com), citing an ICI Research survey. “But they can be bad for

beneficiaries if you have a very large account.”

Investment in annuities, touted as offering a potential guaranteed

income stream, alsocontinue to grow with sales up 10

percent in the second quarter of this year.

“Annuities have several dark sides, both during your lifetime

and for your beneficiaries,” says wealth management advisor

Haitham “Hutch” Ashoo, CEO of Pillar Wealth Management,

(www.pillarwm.com). “My business partner, Chris Snyder, and I

wouldn’t recommend investing in them.”

Putting large amounts of money in either annuities or IRAs can

have serious tax consequences for your heirs, say Kohles, Ashoo

and attorney John Hartog of Hartog & Baer Trust and Estate

Law, (www.hartogbaer.com).

“If you want to ensure your beneficiaries get what you’ve saved,

you need to take some precautions,” Hartog says.

The three offer these suggestions:

By Ginny Grimsley

That includes being locked in to the annuity for five to seven

years with hefty penalties for pulling out early; returns that

fall far short of market investments on indexed annuities; high

management fees for variable annuities; declining returns on

fixed-rated annuities in their latter years; and giving up your

principle in return for guaranteed income.

“If you own annuities and have a substantial estate, there are

smart ways to unwind them to minimize damage,” Ashoo says.

• Consider spending down your tax-deferred IRA early.

If you’re in the group with $5 million/$10 million assets, it pays

to go against everything you’ve been taught and spend the IRA

before other assets, says attorney Hartog.

“It’s a good vehicle for charitable gifts if you’re so inclined. And

if you’re 70½ or older, this year you can direct up to $100,000

of your IRA-required minimum distribution to charity and it

won’t show up as taxable income,” Hartog says. (That provision

is set to expire next year.)

You might also postpone taking Social Security benefits until

you’re 70½ and withdraw from your IRA instead. “That willmaximize

your Social Security benefit – you’ll get 8 percent more.”

Finally, anyone who has accumulated some wealth will do best

coordinating their financial planning with a team of specialists,

the three say.

• Take stock of your assets – you could be worth more

than you think: If your estate is worth more than $5.25 million

(for couples, $10.5 million), your beneficiaries face a 40

percent estate tax and federal and state income taxes, says

Kohles, the CPA. “It can substantially deplete the IRA,” he says.

To avoid that, take stock of your assets now – you may have

more than you realize when you take into account such variables

as inflation and rising property values. Be aware of how

close to that $5/$10 million benchmark you are now, and how

close you’ll be a few years from now.

“Consider vacation and rental properties, vehicles, potential

inheritances,” Kohles says.

As a CPA, Kohles is focused on minimizing taxes; wealth

management adviser Ashoo’s concern is the client’s goals and

lifestyle; and lawyer Hartog minimizes estate taxes.

“We get the best results managing tax consequences and maintaining

our clients’ lifestyles by working together,” Hartog says.

Correction for an error in our July 2013 issue on page 71. Photo credit

was not included for the below photograhy. Photographer and credit

belongs to Jorge Parra of Jorge Parra Photography.

Also, take advantage of the lower tax rates you enjoy today,

particularly if they’re going to skyrocket after your death. “A lot

of people want to pay zero taxes now and that’s not necessarily

a good idea,” he says. For instance, if you’re at that upper level,

consider converting your traditional IRA to a ROTH IRA and

paying the taxes on the money now so your beneficiaries won’t

have to later.

• No matter what your estate’s value, avoid investing in

annuities. Wealth management adviser Ashoo warns annuities,

offered by insurance companies, can cost investors an inordinate

amount of money during their lifetime and afterward.

“Insurance companies try to sell customers on the potential for

guaranteed income, a death benefit paid to beneficiaries, or a

‘can’t lose’ minimum return, but none of thosecompensates for

what you have to give up,” he says.


Ideas

for Small Businesses


Are personal relationships why most consumers frequent small

businesses? From the mom and pop coffee shop to the small

bookstore just down the street, people enjoy the personal interactions

and convenience small businesses offer.

In a recent survey about interactions between consumers and

small businesses from Web.com, more than eight out of ten

consumers said it’s important that a small business is customerfocused

and provides personal, face-to-face interaction with its

customers. Respondents also wanted a small business to be local,

convenient and reliable.

Grow online: To account for consumers’ desire for personal relationships,

small businesses should have a big presence on the Internet,

but only 41 percent of small businesses surveyed even had

a website. Those without a website said they didn’t see the need

for one, or the cost of designing and maintaining a site was a barrier.

On the other hand, 83 percent of consumers who responded

said having a website and use of social media is important to their

consideration and choice of a small business.

“Small businesses have historically relied on face-to-face relationships

to grow and differentiate themselves, but today’s consumers

are demanding that these relationships extend into ‘e-Main

Street’,” says David Brown, president, chairman and CEO of Web.

com. “Our survey found a significant disconnect between how

small businesses decision-makers think they are delivering on

customers’ expectations versus the reality of consumers’ perceptions.

The good news is small businesses are starting to realize

the web’s untapped potential to reach consumers who are eager

for online engagement.”

Family Features

Stay in touch: Everyone knows how important it is to stay in

touch with friends. If you’re a small business owner, don’t forget

to stay in touch with your customers so they won’t forget about

you. Use social media sites, such as Facebook and Twitter, along

with email to notify your customers about special promotions or

to just remind them about the great benefits you offer.

While it’s easy to blast an email to every customer or post an

endless stream of cute pictures on Facebook, it’s important to not

overwhelm or annoy them with too much of a good thing. Keep

your messages consistent, concise and professional.

If you’re not sure how to get started, the Internet offers a lot of

resources about how to successfully set up your online presence

and use Google, Facebook and Twitter to market and grow your

business online. You can also find information online at www.Web.

com.

Provide personal service: Set your business apart by giving every

customer the personal interaction and convenience they crave.

Simply asking customers about their purchases or how you can

serve them better gives you a consistent stream of information

you can use to refine your goods or services and increase sales.

Make sure every employee understands the value in talking to

customers and tracking feedback.

The bottom line for every small business is that consumers are

demanding online interaction and involvement with businesses,

both big and small. Consistently reaching out to your customers

through a website, social media and face-to-face interactions will

help your business thrive.


JOIN US ONSCREEN

Download Today

Art

Lifestyle

Personalities

Culture

Fashion

Open

for Business

Franchise

A franchise is a business model that involves two parties —

a franchisor and a franchisee. Franchises are a good fit for

those with an entrepreneurial spirit but who also may lack

business experience and would benefit from the structure,

support and guidance the franchise model provides. To become

a franchisee, an entrepreneur pays a fee and/or shares

the revenues of the business. Because a franchise is owned

by a franchisor, the franchisee must follow set guidelines.

Millions toil away in their office cubicles, dreaming of owning their

own piece of the American dream. Meanwhile, many entrepreneurial

thinkers are using rough economic times as the catapult

for making their small business dreams come true.

With so many types of business models available, it can be hard

to determine which one is the best fit for you.

Brick and mortar

Commonly thought of as the most traditional of plans, this business

model involves businesses housed in physical buildings from

which they sell their products. One major advantage of brick and

mortar businesses is the personal interaction typically achieved

between consumer and owner. Due to the rising popularity of

online shopping, many brick and mortar businesses are turning to

the internet, combining a physical location with an online presence.

If you’re trying to narrow down your options, knowing your

location and community is essential. Some franchise opportunities,

such as The UPS Store, specialize in building

franchise opportunities in small towns and rural locations.

As many of these areas are underserved in business, packing

and shipping amenities, such franchise models deliver a

sought-after service for other small businesses and citizens

within the community. Having a clear understanding of your

community’s needs can ensure your new business venture is

successful and profitable.

It’s also important for franchisees to think outside the box when

selecting their location. For example, some businesses, such as

The UPS Store, can thrive in non-traditional locations, such as

hotels, rural communities, university campuses, military bases and

convention centers. For more information, visit www.theupsstore.

com/mainstreet.

Direct sales

Without a physical retail structure, the direct sales model sells

products through independent distributors who specialize in

face-to-face experiences with the consumer. One main benefit of

direct sales is the ability to sell without overhead or supply costs

of running a facility. Many direct sales entrepreneurs purchase

their products directly from the parent company piecemeal, so no

additional storage space is needed to house the product.

Bricks and clicks

The “bricks and clicks” model is typically used to describe a business

with a both a retail and an online location. A major advantage

of the brick and click model is it allows customers to see the

product physically, coupled with the option to buy products with

the convenience of a mouse click. One disadvantage of the brick

and click model is the higher overhead required to run both a

physical location and keep a website fresh and current.

Many examples of successful bricks and clicks businesses are

retailers which, in particular, sell clothing and footwear. Local customers

can go in to try on the wares physically and then purchase

from the comfort of their own home.

Photos courtesy of ©Disney


Know Your Family

History


A number of celebrities have graced recent headlines by making

some drastic decisions about their health, and in turn, raising awareness

for the importance of knowing one’s family medical history. For

instance, according to the CDC, a history of breast, cervical or ovarian

cancer indicates a strong risk of cancer in some women, and thus

proactive and preventative measures, like having a mastectomy or

hysterectomy, may be warranted.

While facing these decisions can be difficult, Brittney Wilson, a registered

nurse, knows first-hand the positive effect that knowing one’s

family medical history can have on a patient’s overall health. Since

many diseases tend to follow genetic lines, it’s important to know

your roots in order to make better lifestyle choices. For example, if

you have a history of common medical conditions like heart disease,

high blood pressure or diabetes, you have a higher chance of developing

them as well, but prevention is possible.

Nurse Wilson offers steps you can take to develop a family medical

history record that will help inform your lifestyle choices and serve

generations to come.

Step 1: Seek answers to lingering questions

You inherit half of your genetic profile from each parent. So, the first

step in establishing your family medical history is to seek answers to

any doubts or questions you may have about your parents’ identity.

In today’s society, and with the rising rate of children born out of

wedlock, this situation is actually more common than you might

think. In fact, a recent survey conducted on behalf of Identigene, a

DNA paternity test laboratory, concluded that one out of ten Americans

has personally been in a situation where a paternity test was

needed. In addition, nearly one out of five respondents said that they

Family Features

or a close friend or family member has questioned paternity. However,

discovering your paternity can be fairly simple. A kit, such the

Identigene DNA Paternity Test, is available at nationwide drug stores

and supercenters, and offers 100 percent accurate and confidential

results within a matter of days.

Step 2: Talk to your family

The best way to gather information about your medical history is to

talk with relatives about their health. An upcoming holiday gathering

or family reunion is a great opportunity to start the conversation. Explain

why you want to learn more about your family history and ask

direct, specific questions to uncover any reoccurring medical issues

and when they occurred. Consult existing documents, such as family

trees, birth certificates and obituaries, to help obtain this information.

From these materials, you can begin identifying potential patterns

that should be discussed with a doctor.

Step 3: Be proactive about getting healthy

After identifying potential patterns, make a point to discuss them

with your primary care doctor at your next annual exam. A medical

professional might suggest necessary screening and proactive steps

you can take to help stay healthy and avoid certain predisposed conditions

in the future. It’s also a good idea to continue to update your

family medical history record to help future generations navigate

their health.

Preventative care is the most cost effective and least invasive way to

ensure your health and prevent illness. Being aware of your family’s

medical history is the first step towards making informed choices for

a healthier lifestyle.


Sight

Save Your

Family Features

Regular eye exams are crucial to more than just good vision. They can also

aid in early detection of health problems, such as diabetes, high cholesterol

and high blood pressure. This is possible because the eye is a unique window

into one’s overall health. It’s the only place in the body where, without

surgery, medical professionals can see blood vessels, arteries and a cranial

nerve.

During a comprehensive eye exam, your eye care professional will use drops

to view the back of your eyes to check for damage or disease. There are

several different eye conditions and diseases your eye doctor will be looking

for during an exam, including but not limited to the following:

Diabetic Eye Disease: This disease occurs when diabetes damages the tiny

blood vessels inside the retina. It is the most common cause of blindness.

Dry Eye: This occurs when the eye does not produce tears properly. It can

make it difficult to perform some activities, including reading or using a computer

for an extended period of time.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration: AMD for people aged 50 and over in the

U.S. has increased by 25 percent over the last decade. The disease causes

dim images or black holes at the center of vision. AMD rarely causes complete

blindness, but there is currently no cure.

Living with

Diabetes?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,

people with diabetes are two times more likely to develop gum

disease. In fact, about one-third of people with diabetes have

severe gum disease.

Why are those with diabetes more vulnerable to gum disease?

High blood glucose levels impair the body’s ability to heal from

oral infections and uncontrolled diabetes can make treating

gum disease more difficult, according to the American Diabetes

Association. The Association is joining with Colgate to launch

a new “Watch Your Mouth!” campaign to help raise awareness

surrounding the often over-looked link between oral health and

diabetes. Here are some tips to help you live well with diabetes:

• Watch your mouth! Begin to develop healthy oral care habits,

like brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist regularly. Research

shows that brushing twice a day with Colgate Total toothpaste

can help improve gum health in as little as four weeks.*

• Don’t miss out on your favorite foods. Just eat healthier versions

that everyone in your family can enjoy. Making simple

substitutions to most dishes can help increase nutritional value,

while not sacrificing on taste.

• Use the right tools. Stay organized with a journal large enough

to keep your diet, exercise, goals and health information together.

Keep a week’s worth of prescriptions in one place with a

handy pill case.

• Know your risks. The American Diabetes Association lists the

common risk factors for diabetes as being 45 or older, being

overweight, not exercising regularly, having high blood pressure

and being a part of certain racial and ethnic groups.

• Visit your dentist. While your doctor and certified diabetes

educator play an important role in helping with your diabetes, so

does your dentist. If you don’t see a private-practice dentist, you

can visit dental schools that provide services at a fraction of the

cost to help you keep your mouth healthy.

For expert tips, visit www.OralHealthAndDiabetes.com.

While annual eye exams are critical to your overall health routine, if you’re

among the 50 million households in the United States without access to vision

insurance, it’s tempting to forgo when cost is an issue. For those without

vision insurance, the only options were to work for an employer that offered

vision coverage, pay out-of-pocket or simply go without.

Family Features

Now, affordable individual and family vision plans are available directly to

the consumer from VSP Vision Care, the nation’s only not-for-profit vision

care company. Through VSP Direct, VSP’s individual vision insurance product,

consumers in every state can receive high-quality vision care. These plans allow

for individuals and families to gain direct access to the same high-quality

vision coverage many employers offer.

Even if you think your vision is fine and your eyes are healthy, an eye exam

is the only way to be sure. Individual plans from VSP Direct cover eye exams

with a low co-payment. They also provide fully covered lens options with

allowances for a wide selection of glasses or contacts. To find out more, visit

www.vspdirectplans.com.

Annual eye exams are an important part of your overall health routine. Remember,

vision care isn’t just about seeing well – it’s about being well.



Achieving

Personal Harmony

Family Features

What if after surviving your first cancer diagnosis at the age of 51, you

were re-diagnosed just 18 months later? Metastatic colorectal cancer

patient Dave Johnson experienced that first-hand, and was initially reluctant

and scared to tell his family, friends and co-workers.

However, he soon learned two important lessons – that he had more

support around him than he thought, and that he could control his lifestyle

and personal harmony. Now at the age of 53, Johnson, a full-time

banker, has discovered a new sense of inner well-being and, according

to his physician, is again cancer free.

Many people find achieving personal harmony and balance difficult –

the demands and stresses of everyday life often impede the ability to

find inner peace. For those facing a cancer diagnosis, achieving that

balance may feel impossible. And, yet, it is as important, if not more,

for people living with cancer to find and maintain a sense of inner

harmony.

After being diagnosed with an advanced form of colorectal cancer,

Johnson knew he had to fight the disease head on, from both a medical

and mental perspective. Johnson worked with his physician to

choose his treatment, and made the conscious decision to focus on

areas of his life he felt he could control.

“Setting goals and priorities, as well as staying active, became very

important to me, and helped me accept my diagnosis as my ‘new normal,’”

said Johnson. “The ability to fulfill goals and keep both my mind

and body busy helped me focus on the sweet spots in life that give me

strength and joy.”

Johnson also said expressing his emotions was important to regaining

his balance. “There were many days when I could have said ‘why me’

and focused my energy on feelings of anger and resentment,” said

Johnson. “I’d let myself experience those feelings but I made a point

of expressing those emotions and then moving on, which helped me

maintain mental clarity. Additionally, my faith helped me accept the

challenges I was going through.”

Tips to achieving personal harmony and balance during cancer include:

• Express your emotions: Make a point of expressing your emotions

before they start to have a negative impact.

• Set goals and priorities: Focus on the areas you can control and set

out to fulfill the goals most important in your personal and work life.

• Keep active: Find activities to keep both your body and mind busy

that you also enjoy.

• Enjoy the company of loved ones: Surround yourself with positive,

supportive relationships, whether with your family, friends or co-workers.

• Be open with your doctor: Don’t be afraid to discuss any cancer fears

you have with your doctor or nurse.

www.GerroArt.com

(941) 639-6364

One of a kind handmade fashion

Photography by Richard Evans

Johnson stressed the importance of surrounding himself with positive,

supportive relationships, including others who were also navigating a

cancer journey.

“I learned to celebrate the successes of other patients while supporting

those experiencing setbacks – this in turn kept me self-motivated

to fight my cancer with all the strength I had,” said Johnson. “It’s easy

to feel overwhelmed after a cancer diagnosis. For me, taking time to

focus on myself and my inner being, and creating an environment that

was as nurturing and calming as possible, helped me stay positive in

combating my disease.”

www.mycoloncancercoach.org

Breast

Cancer

What You Need to Know

Family Features


Thirty years ago, a diagnosis of breast cancer was thought of as

a virtual death sentence for many women, but since that time

significant progress has been made in the fight against breast

cancer. Reduced mortality, less invasive treatments, an increased

number of survivors and other advancements have their roots in

breast cancer research – more than $790 million of it funded by

Susan G. Komen, the world’s largest breast cancer organization.

Myth: Only women with a family history of breast cancer get the

disease.

Fact: Most women who get breast cancer have no family history

of the disease. However, a woman whose mother, sister or daughter

had breast cancer has an increased risk.

Myth: If I don’t have a mutated BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, I won’t

get breast cancer.

Fact: You can still get breast cancer, even without a gene mutation.

About 90 to 95 percent of women who get breast cancer do

not have this mutation.

Myth: Women with more than one known risk factor get breast

cancer.

Fact: Most women with breast cancer have no known risk factors

except being a woman and getting older. All women are at risk.

Myth: You can prevent breast cancer.

Fact: Because the causes of breast cancer are not yet fully known,

there is no way to prevent it.

Actions to Reduce Your Risk

However, the reality is that breast cancer is still a serious disease.

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, held each October,

brings awareness to the disease and empowers women to take

charge of their own breast health.

This year, about 200,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer will

be diagnosed among women in the U.S. and nearly 40,000 women

will die from it. Globally, 1.6 million people will be diagnosed,

and 400,000 will die. Despite the increased awareness of breast

cancer, major myths still abound. Women must remain vigilant

against this disease by learning the facts and understanding how

they may be able to reduce their risk.

The Myths and Facts on Breast Cancer

Myth: I’m only 35. Breast cancer happens only in older women.

Fact: While the risk increases with age, all women are at risk for

getting breast cancer.

Breast cancer can’t be prevented; however, research has shown

that there are actions women can take to reduce their risk of

developing breast cancer.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight – Postmenopausal women who are

overweight have a 30 to 60 percent higher breast cancer risk than

those who are lean.

• Add Exercise into Your Routine – Women who get regular physical

activity may have a lower risk of breast cancer by about 10 to

20 percent, particularly in postmenopausal women.

• Limit Alcohol Intake – Research has found that women who had

two to three alcoholic drinks per day had a 20 percent higher risk

of breast cancer.

• Breastfeed, if you can – Research has shown that mothers who

breastfed for a lifetime total of one year (combined duration of

breastfeeding for all children) were slightly less likely to get breast

cancer than those who never breastfed.

1-877-GO-KOMEN

www.Komen.org


Global

Beauty

When it comes to beauty, Korea is years ahead, producing new technologies,

ingredient discoveries and skincare innovation long before

the rest of the world. From BB Creams to eyelash extensions, Korea

is responsible for introducing some of the biggest beauty crazes of

the past few years, and as we look for the next big skin care/cosmetic

trends, the global beauty spotlight shines bright on Seoul, South Korea.

As a leader in luxury Korean skincare, Amarte is poised to bridge the

gap between Seoul and the US in a perfect “East meets West” synergy.

With a deep understanding of ancient Eastern skin care philosophy and

Western dermatological aesthetics, Amarte products are designed to

bring clarity, brilliance and beauty to every woman’s skin. Formulated

with unique ingredients and advanced technologies, Amarte’s multistep

ritual cleanses, hydrates, rejuvenates and protects to reveal youthful,

radiant skin.

Dr. Craig Kraffert is a board certified dermatologist and President of

Amarte, the premiere luxury skin care line that combines Korean skin

care philosophy with American dermatology to create a beautiful and

scientific skin care ritual. He is also the founder of DermStore.com and

owner of Redding Derm, where he specializes in both aesthetic and

clinical dermatology.

Trained as a biochemist and cell biologist, Dr. Kraffert began his career

in biomedical research at Scripps Institute in La Jolla, California

then studied medicine at UCLA and chose to intern in Surgery at UCLA

Medical Center. Dr. Kraffert’s dermatology residency at the University of

Miami in Florida allowed him to benefit from what is consistently considered

one of the world’s most prestigious and desirable dermatology

training programs.

As a scientist, skin care expert and entrepreneur, Dr. Kraffert discovered

the technology behind Amarte products at the renowned Bio Regional

Innovation Center at Seowon University in Korea. He recognized Korea’s

remarkable aptitude for scientific innovation and saw Amarte was

a young product line with innovation not yet seen in the Unites States.

Determined to introduce this innovation to the West, Dr. Kraffert formed

an international management team dedicated to creating extraordinary

skin care products to further improve the original Korean formulations

and customize products for the American market. Under Dr. Kraffert’s

direction, Amarte is defining the global standard for innovative, quality

skin care systems that promote the wellness and the natural beauty of

your skin. Amarte is a skin care system that is more than a fusion of

East and West – It is also a symbol of beauty and science intertwining,

and the celebration of an enjoyable daily ritual.

Dr. Kraffert is passionate about all aspects of dermatology. He sees

patients five full days per week and views his mission as becoming the

embodiment of the “Renaissance dermatologist,” constantly striving to

achieve excellence at all aspects of dermatology for the benefit of his

patients. Dr. Kraffert’s clinical offices contain more than twenty fully

equipped exam and treatment rooms, offering a complete spectrum

of modern general and aesthetic dermatology services as well as laser

services, skin care consultation, phototherapy, dermatopathology

and micrographic (Mohs) surgery. Dr. Kraffert is involved in research

projects both for industry and independently. He lectures frequently

in academic and industry forums, and has been especially active in

California dermatology, recently serving as the President of CalDerm,

the California Society of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery, which

he holds the primary responsibility for renaming.

Dr. Kraffert’s entrepreneurial spirit led to the founding of DermStore.

com in 1999. His vision and management brought tremendous success

to the brand, which he then sold in 2007 to allow time for his pursuit of

additional entrepreneurial ventures, like Amarte Cosmetics.


Photo credit 5W Public Relations

high tech for breast cancer

E! News’ Giuliana Rancic made a special guest

appearance at the Bryant Park Hotel to help

launch the new website, CureDiva.com, the

first ever personalized lifestyle solutions online

shop for women facing Breast Cancer. Giuliana

joined the CureDiva founders to celebrate the

launch of the website and bring awareness

to both the disease and the specific needs of

women who are diagnosed. She opened up to

guests about her experience with breast cancer

and mentioned how she is proud to team

up with CureDiva to help women feel beautiful

and feminine amid a diagnosis.

Ester Gofer, Giuliana Rancic and CureDiva co-founder Efrat Roman

www.curediva.com

“When I heard about CureDiva, I was surprised it

hadn’t been created sooner and wondered why I

didn’t have this when I was going through breast

cancer. Going through treatments, it’s so hard to know

what products you need and where to go. The great

thing about CureDiva is that it specifies to your needs

and helps you based on what you’re going through at

each phase. Now because of CureDiva, women have a

more accessible support system, and can still feel like

a diva through their treatments. I wish CureDiva was

around when I was going through it all”

Giuliana Rancic

Mercedes-Benz

Fashion Week

SPRING 2014

By Samantha Ramos

Academy of Art

Diane Von Furstenberg

Fallon

Naeem Khan

Photography by Mike Coppola, Frazer Harrison, Peter Michael Dills, Joe Kohen & Arun Nevader

Summer may have come and gone, but the fashion industry kicked

into high gear as the newest Collections made their debut at Lincoln

Center with the start of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, with a lineup

of over 100 designers showing their spring 2014 Collections.

Among the world's most renowned designers, Mercedes-Benz is

showing an icon of its own - the all-new 2014 S-Class. A benchmark

of automotive generations, the S-Class possesses a rare combination

of style, luxury and engineering which sets new standards

for others to follow.

The S-Class is the main attraction within The House of Mercedes-

Benz fashion boutique in the main lobby of Lincoln Center. Here,

the worlds of fashion and automotive design merge as the vehicle's

attributes come to life in a unique retail environment providing

guests with a complete sensory experience. Claire Distenfeld,

owner of famed fashion boutique Fivestory and curator of the fashion

looks displayed within The House of Mercedes-Benz, explains

"As a boutique owner myself, I realize the importance of creating an

environment that touches each of the customer's five senses. The

House of Mercedes-Benz depicts the amazing characteristics of the

all-new S-Class in a unique way which appeals to a fashion-minded

audience."

To highlight the first of the five senses and the vehicle's remarkable

stereo camera, giving the car "sight" like never before, Mercedes-

Benz and Oregon-based wooden eyewear company Shwood joined

forces to create an exclusive Shwood for Mercedes-Benz Sunglass

Collection. The limited-edition collection was on display in The


House of Mercedes-Benz boutique and is inspired by the illustrious

wood accompaniments featured in the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

From what's new and chic, it’s all about special pieces inspired by

creativity that goes from runway-to-reality. From the perfect hairstyle,

accessories and footwear are essential to complete a look and

no one knows better than the top models and stylists of Fashion

Week. This season brings the authenticity of cultural elements to

the modern women around the world with sophistication, elegance

and seductive glamour.

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week as always draws the attention of

thousands of fashion fans to New York City. The designer’s signature

use of color, custom prints, and unique fashion style, brings the

authenticity of cultural elements to the modern women around the

world with sophistication, elegance and seductive glamour.

“Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week truly embodies the global scale

of the fashion industry and highlights the limitless boundaries of

design. A leader in the global fashion event circuit; Mercedes-Benz

Fashion Week in New York has the highest number of international

designers who choose to make this Event the home for their Collection

debuts,” says Christina Neault, Executive Producer, IMG Fashion

Events and Properties. “As well, with three fashion schools and

numerous emerging designers presenting alongside their established

colleagues, Lincoln Center is the place to discover the next

rising star.”


Models Jessica White, Elena Kurnosova, and Julie Henderson

The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Spring 2014 Collections included:

NICHOLAS K, BCBGMAXAZRIA, RICHARD CHAI, SUPIMA, TADASHI

SHOJI, CANDELA, DESIGUAL, MARISSA WEBB, THE ART INSTITUTE

OF NEW YORK CITY, FASHION LAW INSTITUTE, ZIMMERMANN,

PROJECT RUNWAY, CARMEN MARC VALVO, NOON BY NOOR, NAU-

TICA, REBECCA MINKOFF, NICOLE MILLER, ARGENTINE DESIGNERS,

TODD SNYDER, ELLE FASHION|NEXT, ACADEMY OF ART UNIVER-

SITY, MARK + ESTEL, RUFFIAN, RAFAEL CENNAMO, LACOSTE, JILL

STUART, SON JUNG WAN, MARA HOFFMAN, MALAN BRETON, HERVÉ

LÉGER BY MAX AZRIA, KATYA LEONOVICH, CHARLOTTE RONSON,

MONIQUE LHUILLIER, VENEXIANA, LELA ROSE, DKNY, TRACY

REESE, CUSTO BARCELONA, TRINA TURK, DIANE VON FURSTEN-

BERG, JOANNA MASTROIANNI, Y-3, VIVIENNE TAM, ZAC POSEN,

RALPH RUCCI, RICARDO SECO, EMERSON BY JACKIE FRASER-SWAN,

MATHIEU MIRANO, RUBIN SINGER, CAROLINA HERRERA, TOMMY

HILFIGER, PAMELLA ROLAND, HACHE, CZAR BY CESAR GALINDO,

CONCEPT KOREA, DONNA KARAN NEW YORK, FALGUNI AND SHANE

PEACOCK, REEM ACRA, KAUFMANFRANCO, LIBERTINE, TORY

BURCH, J.CREW, STEVEN ALAN, BADGLEY MISCHKA, VERA WANG,

JENNY PACKHAM, DIESEL BLACK GOLD, ADEAM, NAEEM KHAN,

DENNIS BASSO, ALON LIVNÉ, ZANG TOI, MM6 MAISON MARTIN

MARGIELA, FASHION SHENZHEN, BIBHU MOHAPATRA, BRANDON

SUN, MICHAEL KORS, NANETTE LEPORE, RACHEL ZOE, J. MENDEL,

CLOVER CANYON, MILLY BY MICHELLE SMITH, BETSEY JOHNSON,

ANNA SUI, ANYA CALIENDO, OSKLEN, B. MICHAEL AMERICA, RALPH

LAUREN and CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION.

“Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York is internationally recognized

as the world’s stage to premier the latest developments in

cutting-edge fashion to the global fashion industry,” said Stephanie

Zimmer, Manager of Brand Experience Marketing for Mercedes-Benz

USA. “The excitement is building in anticipation of what will hit the

runways from both the well-known designers and emerging talent

showing this season."

Designers thrilled to celebrate the blossoms of spring with soft details,

vivid colors, along with hues of summer, nude natural tones and

exquisite modern elements. Exciting guest with hundreds of beautiful,

must-have pieces from each of the designers collections. Mercedes-

Benz Fashion Week had an indelible impression of beautiful pieces

that evoked a stunning yet relaxed mood of harmony, style and daily

wear ability. Fit for the style savvy women to discover cutting edge

collections for the discerning fashionista in you.


Badgley Mischka

Vera Wang

Venexiana

Osklen

Ellassay design

Tory Burch

Mara Hoffman

Jenny Packham

Zang Toi

Donna Karan

Falguni & Shane Peacock

Kaufmanfranco


Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week SPRING 2014

Dennis Basso

Anna Sui

Ralph Lauren

B Michael America

Zimmermann

Tommy Hilfiger

Pamella Roland

Diesel Black Gold

Zac Posen

BCBGMAXAZRIA

Nicholas K

Tadashi Shoji


DKNY

Models attend the Mercedes-Benz Star Lounge

Paris Hilton

Cindy Bae & Shereene Idress

Kenya Moore & Miss J. Alexander

Miss USA 2011 Alyssa Campanella

Reem Acra

Adriana De Moura Kelly Thomas Knicks Tyson Chandler & Kimberly Chandler


Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week SPRING 2014

The Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce

Visitor Information Center

Neil Schon & Michaele Salahi

Our Guest Book says it all...

Basketball Pro DeLisha Milton-Jones & Taj McWilliams-Franklin

“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!


Sweet

Dreamsby Daniel Fernandez

Down is nature’s best insulator and offers the sleep inducing benefits of warmth

without weight.

The wonderful softness of down and feather pillows feels great and is good for

you because it conforms to the body more naturally than many synthetic fibers or

foam pillows. This quality has led to the increase in non-traditional pillow shapes for

specific types of sleepers—such as those who sleep be st with a large pillow they can

“hug”, or the pillows designed for expectant mothers. In a more traditional bed pillow,

the neck and shoulder muscles are less strained as the head is naturally cradled

in the down and feather pillow.

Down and feather is a natural material that wicks moisture away and allows it to

quickly evaporate rather than trapping moisture. Waking up in the night having to

throw off a blanket because of feeling overheated is a thing of the past when your

pillow and comforter are made from down and feather.

Dust mite allergies plague at least 10 percent of the population and are a leading

contributor to developing asthma. Hypoallergenic down and feather is a good product

for allergy sufferers because the natural breathability means that moisture– which

dust mites need to live and thrive–is not trapped in the fibers.

Additionally, the fabrics that encase the down and feathers are tightly woven–possessing

a high thread count–in order to keep any feathers from escaping. This tightly

woven fabric also serves as a barrier to dust mites.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), insufficient

sleep is a public health epidemic in the U.S. Further, the CDC says that a lack of sleep

makes a person more likely to suffer from other chronic diseases such as diabetes,

depression and obesity. How can people help create better sleep habits and lead

healthier lives?

The first step is to realize what is keeping them awake. Feeling too hot or too cold?

Restless and sore from fidgeting while sleeping? These seemingly trivial discomforts

can have adverse effects on sleep and health. Use these tips from the American

Down and Feather Council (ADFC) to pick out the right bedding for a night of deep

and refreshing sleep.

• Waking up Shivering or Sweating?

Down is nature’s best insulator and offers the

sleep inducing benefits of warmth without

weight. A down comforter with a fill power higher

than 500 will give added warmth, and a down

comforter with less than 500 will keep you snug

but cool.

• Fidgeting in your Sleep?

Look for bedding that is soft and will naturally

conform to your body – like down and feather.

Down and feather contours and moves with your

body as you shift positions, this will keep you

from getting tangled up in your sleep.

• Feeling Dirty and Gross?

Easily washable, down and feather products are

made from natural materials that wick moisture

away and allow it to quickly evaporate rather

than trapping it close to your body. Sleeping in

a moisture-free bed will help you retain a fresh

and clean feeling.

• Suffering from Allergies?

Plaguing at least 10 percent of the population,

dust mites thrive in humid locations and are one

of the leading contributors to asthma. Superior

construction and breathable materials allow

down and feather products to be dust mite free

and hypoallergenic.


"Team" CapriceBy Terry Profetto

Caprice 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.

Miloff Aubuchon Realty Group is a division of Team Aubuchon,

which practices a very unique concept in real estate. This organization

offers a one stop shop for all real estate interests,

from buying or selling a home, building a custom dream home,

investing in a home to rent, commercial investing, remodeling

and interior design – this company offers everything real estate

under one roof, with no hassles and no worries.

Flexibility and diversity are the main components of their 2

building divisions. Each custom home offers its own unique

design that reflects the personality of the customer; from Key

West Style, to Mediterranean to Contemporary, the sky’s the

limit! Their in-house building team will transform your vision

into a beautiful home design. For those looking for affordable

luxury, there are many creative and open floor plans to inspire

you. All of their homes are built with high quality materials

and products, and to withstand inclement weather up to 150

mph winds.

Teamwork and communication are key to Caprice’s success.

She has many customers located throughout the US and Europe,

who are building their dream home.

Each client works with a team of professionals,

who continuously stay in touch

with weekly updates, including photos

showing the progress of their home, and

a building report detailing the current status.

CUSTOM VILLA

2808 SW 43 RD STREET CAPE CORAL FLORIDA 33914

$ 825,000

CUSTOM VILLA

2808 SW 43 RD STREET CAPE CORAL FLORIDA 33914

$ 825,000

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 warm up from a cold winter

and refuel with sandy beaches, boating,

tropical breezes and palm trees, contact

Caprice Krumsick, 239.677.7141, or

ckrumsick@teamaubuchon.com.


SOUTHERN EXPOSURE WATERFRONT VILLA

THIS CUSTOM 2006 SAILBOAT GULF ACCESS 2-STORY HOME COMES WITH EXCEPTIONAL FINISHES

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.

Outdoor

Solutions

Photos courtesy of ©Disney

Family Features

In the warmer months, we find ourselves outside more often, enjoying

nature while playing with the kids and maintaining our lawns.

But this additional time spent outside means more home & garden

tools and more opportunity for a mess.

Here are some simple tips to keep your outdoor spaces cleaner and

more organized:

Storage Bench – Use a storage bench to keep your gardening

gloves, tools and children’s outdoor toys. Available in a wide variety

of sizes and styles, you can find the bench that fits your décor. Plus,

they offer an extra seating area when you have company.

Bundle Cords – No one likes the unsightly appearance or hazard

of cords. Before your gatherings, bundle together stereo and electronic

chords that are exposed, as well as any cords that run across

the lawn. Helpful products, such as Velcro One-Wrap ties, keep your

items bound tight and out of sight.

Paver Pots – Use old pavers to create plant containers. Simply

stack the pavers together making a square shape. The heavy

weight of the pavers keeps the dirt and plant contained together.

Repurpose Furniture – Turn old furniture pieces, such as old

filing cabinets, into instant garage storage solutions. Take out the

drawers of the cabinet and turn it on its side. Each empty drawer

area provides a spot for large items like brooms, shovels and rakes.

Fence Storage – Turn old coffee or paint cans into storage bins

for smaller gardening tools like hand shovels and pruning shears.

For easy access while in the garden, cut holes and use rope to hang

around a close-by fence post.

Tires – Stack old tires on top of each other for an outdoor toy

container that kids can easily access. Paint the outside to match the

color of your house or whatever color you fancy.

End of Season Storage – Keep your garage area tidy by organizing

similar tools together. Use One-Wrap ties to keep gardening

tools grouped together, or to keep hoses tightly coiled and out of

the way. This product also comes in a variety of colors and sizes so

that you can keep everything neat and organized.

Deck Space – Use the space under your deck for additional, outof-sight

storage. Tuck plastic lidded storage containers underneath

for easy access to children’s sporting goods and toys.

Mesh Bags – Pool toys, rafts and inner tubes need a space to dry

off. Use mesh bags so these summer toys properly are properly

dried, preventing mildew or molding.

Proper Plant Care – Stock up on essentials for a healthy garden,

including the tools to make plant seedlings thrive, such as Velcro

Peel Away seed pots. These pots make it easy to remove the pots

without disturbing the roots, making transitions from pot to flower

bed flawless.

www.velcro.com


Family Safe

security tips

With families squeezing in getaways to enjoy the last few weeks

of summer vacation, and kids heading back to school immediately

thereafter, the next couple of months will see your house sitting

empty and potentially vulnerable to break-ins.

While we may dutifully lock our doors and windows when we go

out or go to bed, too many people think burglaries and home

invasions are something that only happens to other people. That

is, until it happens to us.

“A lot of people just think that their home won’t be targeted by a

burglar and they don’t take enough safety precautions to protect

their homes,” says Gallen Tsui of SkyLink. “However, burglars are

always looking for easy targets. The fact is that with just a few

simple items and some knowledge, you can make your home

safer and less likely of being a victim of a burglary.”

Skylink, makers of the Skylink Alarm System and Internet Home-

Control System, recommend the following tips to help make your

home more secure.

Simple but effective:

• Plant thorny bushes and plants in front of main floor windows.

• Ensure your house numbers are visible and illuminated at night.

• Avoid discussing any vacation plans on social media networks.

• Turn on your vacation lock function on your garage door opener,

if available.

• If you were looking to get into your house how would you do it?

Think like a burglar and fix any potential weak points.

Get an alarm system:

• Put stickers from your alarm company in windows and doors

to show potential burglars that your home has an active alarm

system.

• Many alarm systems have a voice dialer that can be preprogrammed

to call your cell phone when a sensor triggers the

alarm. Some alarm systems, like Skylink’s, can call up to nine preprogrammed

phone numbers.

• Install a siren on the outside of your house.

Automate your home with a Wireless Home Control System:

• Buy light timers or consider investing in the Skylink Internet

HomeControl System to turn your lights on/off remotely from your

smartphone, tablet or computer.

• Or, set light timers in various rooms with the HomeControl System

App, making sure they are programmed to turn on and off at

times that match your usual pattern of room light usage.

• Use the Skylink HomeControl System App on your smartphone,

tablet or computer to monitor cameras in your home.

• Install motion detector lighting around your house to deter possible

burglars.

“The main point of protecting your house with these tips is to

make an attempted break in too much of a risk for the burglar.

If you make it hard for them to get in, and have an active alarm

system, they will be more likely to just move on to an easier

target,” says Tsui.

Skylink makes the Skylink Alarm System, a home alarm solution

that you can set up by yourself in less than an hour to confidently

secure your home from potential intruders.

www.skylinkhome.com


Providing "Full Time"

Award Winning

Real Estate Service

to discerning

sellers and buyers.

Chip Krespach, Realtor ®

Let me show you the difference.

Call for a confidential, no obligation consultation today.

www.LuxuryHomesSWFL.com

Chip@LuxuryHomesSWFL.com

Direct (239) 823-6768

Light Up

Your Home

Family Features

Common myths related to CFL bulbs

As the lighting industry shifts to provide more energy-efficient

lighting options, more and more homeowners are giving CFLs

a try. However, a variety of myths about CFL lighting still exist

today, many of which are no longer true, including:

1. CFLs produce an unattractive blue light.

Today’s CFLs can produce a soft white color similar to incandescent

bulbs. Check the packaging for Kelvin numbers within a

range of 2,700 to 3,000 for a warmer light appearance.

2. CFLs take a long time to get bright

While many CFLs takes up to a minute to reach full brightness,

there are now more advanced options. GE’s hybrid-halogen CFL,

uses a Brightness Booster, or a halogen capsule, for instant

brightness, eliminating to wait for bright light.

3. CFLs are only available in corkscrew shapes.

Many options are now available that mirror the traditional shape

of incandescent bulbs for a variety of applications. One option

is a 100-watt replacement bulb for table or floor lamps, as well

as globe lights commonly used for bathroom vanity lighting and

recessed lighting in kitchen, living and dining rooms.

When adding energy-efficient upgrades to your home, it’s important

to ensure even the most fundamental of enhancements

– such as lighting – offers the ease of use, reliability and value

expected from traditional, incandescent options.

Advancements in bulb technology

Though they have had a presence in homes for the last three

decades, the compact fluorescent (CFL) light bulb has greatly

improved since its infancy. Some enhancements include reduced

price, availability in standard warm tones and “A-line” shaped

bulbs that mimic the look and feel of traditional incandescent

bulbs.

New technologies include GE’s Bright from the Start CFL. This

hybrid halogen-CFL light bulb provides instant brightness, and is

now available at Target in a 100-watt incandescent replacement –

in addition to other wattages – for table or floor lamps, as well as

globe lights for vanity lighting and floodlights for recessed lighting

used in rooms throughout the home.

Whether you’re using CFLs in your bathroom, kitchen or dining

room, these bulbs provide a similar soft, warm light like an incandescent.

Great for high-use table lamps and fixtures where you

want instant illumination and energy-efficient lighting, CFL bulbs

have the familiar shape of their incandescent counterparts – so

you won’t notice any difference.

“We really like the flow of our home – especially when entertaining

all of our family and friends – but we wanted to use energyefficient

lighting in the busy areas of our condo and create visual

separation from our kitchen to the dining room,” continued

Connie. “By using a mixture of CFL bulbs, we were able to have

functional lighting in the kitchen, while creating a more inviting

and relaxing environment in the dining room.”

While new lighting advancements bring a wealth of benefits to

many homeowners, there are still some mixed messages about

the value of CFL bulbs, as a whole. To see for themselves, Target

NASCAR driver, Juan Pablo Montoya, his wife, Connie, and their

three kids put these new bulbs to the test in their own home to

see if they could keep up with their fast-paced lifestyle.

“I love the energy savings that CFLs provide, but didn’t like the

amount of time it took to warm-up for full brightness,” said Connie.

“GE’s Bright from the Start bulbs are instantly bright, but use

a lot less energy than traditional bulbs.”


www.gelighting.com

AT LAST... A DOCK

THAT MATCHES THE DEVICE

Dock your iPod, iPhone or iPad in BeoSound 8. Or connect an MP3

player, PC or Mac and rediscover your music collection all over again -

only this time it will sound like you are sitting in the front row!

Start the experience at www.bang-olufsen.com or call

888 625 3414 for your closest showroom.

MSRP $999.00

iPod, iPhone and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Wall mount also available for BeoSound 8.

10 Solutions

for Home Organization

Everyone wants to start the year off well-organized. January is

around the corner and time for the obligatory New Year’s Resolutions.

If one of yours is to get your home organized, the home

organization specialists at Tailored Living offer these 10 solutions

to help you maximize your space and reduce clutter

1. Murphy Beds

Ideal for lofts, studios or multifunction rooms, murphy beds

provide a convenient solution to creating more open space and

organizing a room. Murphy beds can be effortlessly pulled down

from their wall units at bedtime and be raised and concealed in

the mornings to open up a room.

2. Under Bed Storage

Remove large storage furniture like armoires and dressers and

opt instead for a platform bed and add rolling under-bed storage

drawers that can hold clothes and other belongings.

3. Vertical shelving

Bathrooms and closets have notoriously underutilized vertical

spaces. Customized vertical shelving can allow placement of bins

and baskets to provide easy access to items and free up prime

horizontal space. Place everyday items at eye-level, and less used

items on the upper shelves, such as guest towels and bulk soap

packages.


4. Clothing Valets

Especially useful in narrow closets, clothing valets allow several

garments to be hung at once while consuming minimal real estate

on walls that cannot accommodate a standard hanging rod. Short

on wall space? Closet valets also work well on doors. There are

various options available like wall mount valets and retractable

valets.

5. Electronics Shelving

Large electronics such as printers, fax machines, and speakers

can eat up valuable real estate in small offices. Move everything

possible to wall storage. When installed professionally, mounted

shelving can hold a surprising amount of weight. Start the lowest

shelf 20 inches above the desk surface so items you use often are

within easy reach while working.

6. Pull-out Bins

Many an item has been lost in the dark abyss of deep shelves or

drawers. Pull-out bins allow maximum use of storage space while

maintaining the ability to bring all stored items into view when

needed. Ideal for small snack items in pantries or small toys in

children’s closets, pull-out bins help keep pile-prone items more

organized.

waxing for all

In 1993, Noemi Grupenmager envisioned a specialized hair

removal center that offered waxing for both men and women,

which would raise industry and marketplace standards. Noemi

imagined something new -- a center solely dedicated to waxing,

with a welcoming atmosphere that offered clean, quick and

professional services at affordable prices. She founded Uni K

Wax in 1993, making her mark as a pioneer in the category and

the first to open such a center. She opened her first location in

Miami Beach, FL using her own proprietary elastic wax, made

of natural beeswax, essential oils and a special pine tree resin,

which took three years of in-depth laboratory research to create.

Uni K Wax Centers are an established concept with a recognized

name and appeal and growing customer base. Today, Uni K Wax

Centers are located throughout New York, Florida and California

with plans to develop over 100 franchises and affiliates across

the country by the end of 2015.

www.unikwax.com

7. Under Desk Cabinets

Small dorm or office spaces can be difficult to organize. Make your

job easier with under desk cabinets. These smaller sized cabinets

neatly tuck in under a desk to take advantage of the extra space

found there. They also come with wheels for easy maneuvering.

Use them to store school supplies, files and other appropriate

articles.

8. Shoe Cubbies

Shoes can create a lot of clutter and can sometimes be hard to

find. Space-saving shoe cubbies solve both problems by gathering

your shoe collection in a centralized location and displaying them

in easy to access slots. Shoe cubbies are versatile, being able to

accommodate athletic shoes or boots, and are small enough to

place either in the closet or entryway.

9. Ceiling Storage

Garage ceilings are vastly underused storage spaces, perfect for

sports equipment or seasonal items. A bike hoist stores bikes off

the ground utilizing a pulley system that maintains easy access

for everyday use. Overhead storage safely holds boxes for less

frequently used items like holiday decorations.

10. Pull-out Canvas Hamper

There are few things that produce more clutter than scattered

clothing. An easy fix is a drawer with a pull-out canvas hamper

that can be used to store dirty clothes until it’s time to do laundry.

Drawers can be neatly tucked away in closets and pull-out hampers

have two handles that allow you to easily carry your clothes

to the laundry room.

www.tailoredliving.com


Easy

Clean Up


Family Features

From rushed morning breakfasts to hurried dinners, the kitchen is

often the busiest room in the home.

But with all of this activity comes a world of messes. For busy

moms, cleaning up spills and splatters can be a job in itself,

especially when kids are involved. From installing kitchen features

that make it easier for kids to help clean up, to easy ways to

keep pans bright, these tips offer simple solutions for a range of

kitchen mishaps and messes.

• Line the refrigerator: Hardened mustard or sticky soda spills can

be hard to remove from inside the refrigerator. For quick clean up,

line the drawers with plastic placemats. When a mess happens,

just pull out the mat, scrub it off and place it back in. As a bonus,

these mats often come in fun colors or patterns to help jazz up

kitchen décor.

• Clean with baking soda: Backsplashes and tile flooring can be

cleaned in a breeze with a simple solution made from things you

may already own. Just mix a half cup of baking soda into a two

gallon bucket of water and scrub those splatters away.

• Brighten brass and copper: To clean up tarnish on pots and

pans made with brass or copper, use a small amount of ketchup

on a soft cloth and rub. Once the tarnish is gone, rinse with warm

water and towel dry.

• Outfit with smudge-free features: With all the upkeep required

in a kitchen, cleaning build up on the faucet can be a bothersome

task. The new smudge-free Slate finish from Pfister retains its

shine after being handled, even after little hands. Plus, its warm,

grey metallic color blends perfectly with other appliance finishes.

• Remove countertop stains: Kids love their juice with breakfast

just like mom loves her coffee, but little spills happen. To remove

such stains, simply add a little hydrogen peroxide to water and a

few small drops of ammonia and scrub with a soft cloth.

• Let the kids help clean: Many kitchen and bath manufacturers,

such as Pfister, offer faucets with flexible, pull down spouts for

kids to help clean and rinse dishes after dinner. Just be sure to

invest in a sturdy step stool to keep your little helpers safe while

they’re at work.


www.pfisterfaucets.com

With a few simple tools you’ll be able to keep your kitchen

squeaky clean so it can continue to be the favorite hang-out for

the entire family.

Paint

Like a Pro

Family Features

The task of home painting projects may seem daunting, but by

following a few helpful steps you can give your home a fresh,

clean appearance and incorporate some of your favorite new

home décor trends.

“Whether your painting projects call for sprucing up your indoor

space or freshening up outdoor trim, a little advance planning,

sweat equity and the right tools can go a long way in ensuring a

professional looking result,” said Carmen De La Paz, designer and

former host of HGTV’s Hammer Heads.

De La Paz offers these tips to help you paint like a pro.

Start with the Right Tools

Whether working on interior or exterior projects, be sure to use

the right tools – especially the appropriate tape – to ensure a professional

looking result. For indoor projects, make sure you read

the label to find a tape that is appropriate for the surface you are

working on and that has EdgeLock technology to ensure sharp,

clean lines. For exterior projects, ScotchBlue has an Exterior

Painter’s Tape specifically designed for exterior paint jobs and is

resistant to sun, wind and moisture.

Tips for Exquisite Exteriors

With its exposure to the elements and various surface types, exterior

painting has its list of challenges. Here are a few tips to make

outdoor painting a breeze:

• Always use the appropriate nap, or thickness of a roller, for the

surface you are painting. Some surfaces, like stucco, tend to have

a rougher texture, so be sure to use a thick nap roller to help pull

paint in and out of crevices. This will save time and frustration.

• Remember to pick paint designed for the surface being painted.

For example, choose masonry or stucco paint for outdoor projects,

or paint that is compatible with wood or metal when painting

other exterior surfaces. Remember, outdoor elements will influence

how well paint sticks to a surface; some surfaces will even

reject the wrong paint. You can avoid this by using the right paint

from the start.

• Be sure to “back prime” any newly installed woodwork. This

means you should prime and seal the whole board before installing

it. This will protect the backboard from moisture and prevent

bloating and cracking once new woodwork is applied.

Ideas for Impressive Interiors

When approaching interior projects, use these tips to make them

flawless:

• When painting big surfaces, such as a wall, use a roller and

paint in “X” and “W” patterns for even distribution of paint. This

helps you avoid “lap marks” where paint builds up thicker in some

areas due to overlapping.

• When using a brush, load your brush and start by painting

strokes in the middle of the paint area – working your way to the

edges. The goal is to lightly whisk the paint on. The brush has

more paint on it than you think, so let the brush do the work.

• If your painting job is ongoing, don’t wash the brushes. Instead,

put them back in their bags and keep in the freezer overnight.

Then, pull the brushes out about 15 minutes before you plan to

use them again and you’re ready to go. This saves time and water

for brushes that are already in great working condition.

You’ll be amazed by how beautiful your home can be when you

take the time to tackle those painting projects and do it right.

Incorporating these tips into your painting routine will get you

painting like a pro in no time.

www.scotchblue.com


Designer

Profile

Mariapia Malerba

Photography by Indi Franco

Maria Pia Malerba was born in the Puglia region in

Southern Italy. She studied Art in high school and

then went on to study at Accademia di Belle Arti

a fine art institute. After earning her degree specializing

in scenography: set design and costume

history she went to Lake Como to become a text

tile designer. Maria Pia had the opportunity to

create textile designs for big fashion stylists like

Dolce Gabana, Versace and Cavalli. This was an

extraordinary time for her to grow as an artist.

For 12 years, she was continually inspired by new

trends. At the same time when she wasn’t creating

art on fabric, she was still painting Hyperrealism &

abstract artwork on canvas, stone or wood.

Here in Florida Maria Pia came into contact with

Dore whom is the business leader in ballroom dance

gown design. She was fascinated and inspired by

this new world. Maria Pia was born with this strong

per pension to research the beauty in life. Every

morning she would wake up with enthusiasm to

bring to life her ideas and create new things. Color,

objects and shapes fascinate her and she likes

to associate ideas and concepts that are very different

and put them together.

Maria Pia was in kindergarten when she started

painting. Her first oil painting was at age 12. She

painted almost every day of her life. Twenty years

later she was hired by a company to paint a Madonna

on stone for a gift for the Pope that now

is being displayed at the Vatican. She has been

showcased at various galleries all over Italy and

America. Winning 1st prize the “Raffaello Sanzio

award” in Rome in 2006. She's very eclectic; she

loves to paint abstractism as well as hyperrealism.

Her favorite Stylist/artist is Alexander McQueen.

She is in love with his theatrically extraordinary

gowns and genius vision. Right now she is creating

a collection on couture gowns that are made with

recycled materials like paper, plastic, foam etc.

www.maria-pia-art.com


Geishabeauty


Graff Diamonds Iconic Hair & Jewels

$500M of Stunning Jewels Used in Celebration

In 1970, world renowned diamantaire Laurence

Graff OBE created Hair & Jewel – an ornate coiffure

comprising one million dollars of diamonds and

precious gems.

To mark the success of Graff Diamonds globally

and to celebrate Laurence Graff’s 60th anniversary,

they have recreated the famous Hair & Jewel

in celebration –featuring 22 extremely rare and

unique jewels with a value of half a billion dollars.

Incorporated into the recreation are a number of

record breaking diamonds that have been cut and

polished by Graff, namely the Graff Sweethearts; a

magnificent pair of earrings featuring 51.53ct and

50.76ct D color Flawless type IIA heart shape diamonds;

and a selection of jewelry crafted from the

550ct Letšeng Star, the 14th largest white rough

diamond ever discovered.

www.graffdiamonds.com

It is more than 40 years since the original image of

Hair & Jewel was captured. The recreation marks

an important milestone in Graff Diamonds’ history

and coincides with the opening of its 40th store

globally.


The Geisha beauty/fashion concept shoot was inspired

out of art and my admiration for Asian culture. As a

visual artist I sometimes draw, design and create all sorts

of artistic creations. I drew a concept for the big hair

avant-garde Geisha and collaborated with a local stylist

in Omaha, Nebraska on the shoot. Omar Rodriguez is

phenomenal when it comes to control of hair and know

exactly how he will structure a hair design. Nothing is

too difficult for Omar to style. My part in the process

was the idea as well as the actual photographs from the

shoot.

The model used for the shoot is named Nancy Pham

and she is originally from Vietnam; she is neither Chinese

nor Japanese. In coordinating the shoot I ordered

an actual Japanese kimono all the way from , Holland,

Netherlands but it arrived the day after the actual shoot.

Luckily I had the red Vietnamese top as a backup to

make the shoot happen.

There will be a sequel shoot that will be even more dramatic

to follow this first one. The creative coordinator

for the first shoot was Raechel Dennis and we have been

communicating regarding the next concept, which will

certainly top the first creative collaboration.

www.kenalsworld.com

Photographer: Kenal Louis

Makeup & Hair Styled By: Omar Rodriguez

Studio: O STYLES

Creative Coordinator: Raechel Dennis

Model: Nancy Pham



Tipsfor Looking

fabulous

Family Features

With each new season comes the familiar urge to shop and stock

up on the latest fashion trends. Whether you’re dreaming of the

looks heading down the runway or shopping at your local thrift

store for fabulous finds, it can be hard to get everything you want

without breaking the bank.

So, how do you keep up with the latest fashion trends on a budget?

The fashion experts at Hanes offer some affordable tips and

tricks:

Start with the basics - Select a few staple pieces that coordinate

well together and can be mixed and matched with other items in

your closet. Think black and grey pencil skirts paired with white,

grey and black tops. These timeless and traditional basics can

be mixed and matched with pants, cardigans, sweaters and accessories

in a variety of colors and provide the perfect canvas to

build an outfit.

A little legwear can go a long way – For an elegant finish to your

look, add stylish legwear from Hanes. Whether you’re looking

for a silky sheer nude or a seasonless black tight, Hanes

offers a variety of styles that offer a comfortable fit for

all body types at an incredibly affordable price, thanks

to their exclusive availability at Walmarts across the

country. Perfect for year-round wear, Hanes legwear

worn with a dress, skirt or even shorts can really

elevate your look. Pair them with chic, highheeled

boots or pumps to be ultra on-trend this

season. If you plan on sporting the chunky,

lug-soled shoes or boots appearing on the

runways, go for Hanes’ opaque tights

which provide heavier coverage.

Classics are always on-trend – Love every look that goes down

the catwalk but don’t know where to start? Choose an inexpensive

trend or two each season to add a little flair to your existing

look and over time your wardrobe will build as the seasons

change. This year, everyone is wearing bold, monochromatic

colors, like cobalt blue and glamorous gold. Complement these

trends with affordable Hanes legwear in contemporary sheers,

lace or opaque for a complete look. Find the latest styles for under

$6 exclusively at select Walmart locations in your area.

Always accessorize – The ultimate accessory worth a little splurge

is always the handbag. Filled with your daily must-haves and part

of your everyday routines, handbags are one area of your wardrobe

that may just be the most splurge-worthy but make sure

to invest in something that is designed to last. The latest look in

handbags are structured bags with an old Hollywood feel inspired

by the looks of the silver screen. Shiny metal chains, clasps and

handles are also all the rage but just make sure to select a color

that complements your everyday wardrobe.

The key to building a great wardrobe is keeping it updated with

a few affordable trendsetting pieces each season. But before

you go shopping, sort through your clothes to determine what

still works and what should be given away to charity or sold at

your favorite consignment store. After all, any money earned on

things you no longer need can be reinvested in new fashions to

keep you looking and feeling your best.

SAINT LAURENT

Saint Lauren ‘Leaf Buckle’ moto boot, leather upper, lining, and sole, black, $1,395. In Salon

shoes at Nordstrom and nordstrom.com.



KELSI DAGGER

Kelsi Dagger leather tote with expandable sides to zip

open or closed, detachable shoulder strap, black; also in

red or taupe, $328. In Handbags at Nordstrom and online

at nordstrom.com.

LEITH

Leith chambray field jacket, cotton, green sedona, $74. Cold-shoulder

sweatshirt, cotton, charcoal combo, $54. Side-stripe pants, cotton/

spandex, black-grey phantom, $56. Available in Savvy at Nordstrom

and Nordstrom.com


INC International Concepts

Dress $79.50

Available at select Macy's and at macys.com


Charter Club

Cape 99.00

Top 49.00

Pants 64.00

Available at select Macy's and at macys.com


Women's Trista Slingback Espadrille, $85

Women's Pop Leather Chino Belt, $30

Women's Wovern Surplice Back Dress, $90


Women's Enamel Woven Metal Bangle, $35

Women's Enamel Knot Stud Earring, $20

Women's Long Sleeve Fine Guage Supima Crew Cardigan, $50

Women's Wide Nylon/Leather Dress Belt, $45


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 PAN-

DORA 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 starshaped

pendant and charm in black oxidized silver,

an alluring finish that runs through the collection.

Beach

Day

at

The

D'Ora Tokai is an innovative couture

house founded in Monte-Carlo, the

heart of Monaco. Using the latest technology

we deliver tailored pieces to

those who value intelligent luxury.

The founder & creative director Dora

Tokai couples her background in architecture,

engineering and business, with

her love for arts & design. Under Dora's

passionate direction sketches are taken

from paper and turned into exquisite

designs. D'Ora Tokai's pieces capture the

essence of the Monegasque heritage

and the Principality's passion for driving.

With skill and traditional knowhow, European

craftsmen turn fine leathers, tender

wools, flawless pearls and precious gemstones

into timelessly beautiful garments

and accessories.

www.doratokai.com

This season’s Heritage pieces use a mix

of pastel colors on leather and silk, with

a focus on the Royal family’s close bond

with the sea and love for elegant events.

Whereas, the Drivers’ collection is made

of fine leather and cottons poplin, using

dynamic shapes, deep reds and greens

inspired by dream cars of yesteryear.

Designer, Dora Tokai gives in-sight: “The

Principality has a rich cultural heritage

which is not as well known as the yachts

and F1 race cars. I’ve made it my personal

mission to bring Monaco style to

the world.”


"

Lying on a beach of the Riviera, she stares out to the sea. The

wind caresses her skin, her hair, her dress. The waves sway

easily before her. As she stands up to leave, she sees her

shape in the sand disappearing slowly. Some bright fragments

remain on the sand.

"

D’Ora Tokai Monaco

Photographer: Shutter ART, www.faizalshutterart.com

Model: Patricia

Designs: Flüidü dress, Vaga boots, Mundu weekender


Racing through life requires attention, patience and wit.

Elegance, grace and style are virtues. The Orchidée dress highlights

these attributes of a woman. It has the bold and delicate quality

like an orchid, makes her bloom into a ravishing lady.




Models: Dasha & Patricia

Designs: Orchidée dress & hat, Tülipan dress & cap, Mille Perle heels,

Vaga boots

“Curvy, wavy and precious: pearls of the Mediterranean sea.”



Models: Patricia & Dasha

Designs: Vaga suit, fascinator & boots, Stissa suit & hat


“A sunny day in the principality. Sand and white pearls surround the lady in corset.”



Models: Giles & Dasha

Designs: Sabia shirt, shorts, shoes & corset





Models: Dasha & Patricia

Designs: Alegria coat, dress & touch screen gloves, Orchidée hat


“Red for passion. Red for excitement. Red celebrating a vibrant quality, like the blood

running or racing through our veins, at full speed, keeping us alive. Isn’t life a race in

itself? The Alegria dress is for a fierce and confident woman.”


© Bryon McCartney

rt & Fashion Collide for the 3rd Annual “Art

Walks the Runway: Weekend of Fashion”

taking place in downtown Fort Myers at

the beautiful and historic Sidney & Berne

Davis Art Center, Friday and Saturday,

December 13 and 14, 2013.

The weekend will include two tasteful

evenings of fashion. Proceeds will benefit the restoration

of the upper floors of this historic architectural gem.

Keeping it Local

The Friday night December 13th, Art Walks The Runway

Fashion Show will feature this season’s local fashions

from some of the downtown River District boutiques...

and a special performance Art Runway Show by artist

Lily Hatchett. Model hairstyles for Friday evening will be

by Blue Dahlia Salon.

Last year Mrs. Hatchett wowed the audience

with her incredible visual art performance piece “Paper

Grotto.” “It was an interesting and unique way to reveal

her fashion” says organizer, Melissa Tschari DeHaven.

“Visually stimulating groovy images were projected onto

the wall, interesting music played, beautiful models and

dancers exotically danced their way down the runway

wrapped in paper, they danced breaking through the

paper and then Hatchett’s fashions were revealed. It was

a beautiful combination of art meeting fashion. It’s also


always great to see the new trends of the season that will

be showcased by the local boutiques.”

Haute Couture Fashion

Saturday night December 14th, Haute Couture

and Art collide, stimulating all of the senses. This year’s

“Art Walks the Runway” will feature Helen Gerro’s Art

Couture and Day Glow Collections, Mariapia Malerba’s

Recycled Fashion Collection, Paoni Designs Evolution

of Fashion Performance and Fashion Show, along with

special art performance pieces by John Dedo Cristina Art

to Wear, and Babs Couture Accessories and Handbags

partnering with the Dance Alliance.

Art will walk the runway not only as fashion but

body art as well! “Elements of Body Art “ Adriana Gomez

who participated last year, and added so

much to the overall show, has partnered

up with artistic genius Jeff Simon of

917ink.com and will be creating some

amazing works of Body Art. Their art

lives and breathes…literally. It is an

amazing visual to those who experience

it. It is exciting to see unique imaginative

works of art using the human form as a

canvas and it is the perfect ingredient to

Art Walking the Runway.

© © Mila Mila Bridger

Saturday night’s show

Saturday night’s show

will open up with Artists

will open up with Artists

Cesar Aguilera & Danielle

Cesar Aguilera Danielle

Branchaud with Paioni Designs:

Their runway show

Branchaud with Paioni Designs:

Their runway show

segment will showcase

segment will showcase

the evolution of fashion,

the evolution of fashion,

as well as that of mankind

as well as that of mankind

and its relationship to the

and its relationship to the

environment. This theme

environment. This theme

will be folded into the

will be folded into the

performance as well, and

performance as well, and

will capture the attention

will capture the attention

and imagination of every

and imagination of every

audience member.

audience member.

Helen Gerro helped launch Art

Helen Gerro helped launch Art

walks The Runway and was there

walks The Runway and was there

from the start. Helen’s statement

from the start. Helen’s statement

making bold range of designer

making bold range of designer

women’s wear and hand-painted

women’s wear and hand-painted

dresses are a unique example of

dresses are unique example of

“art couture.” “We are honored

“art couture.” “We are honored

that she will be here again for

that she will be here again for

the 3rd Annual Fashion Show”

the 3rd Annual Fashion Show”

says DeHaven.”It’s truly beautiful

to see her designs grace the runway, and showcase her

says DeHaven.”It’s truly beautiful

to see her designs grace the runway, and showcase her

art-inspired fashion. Her special finale Haute art couture

art-inspired fashion. Her special finale Haute art couture

Gerro Glow collection is a popular favorite and one not to

Gerro Glow collection is popular favorite and one not to

be missed.”

be missed.”

© © Nyla Nyla D. D. Photography


Italian artist and

Italian artist and

fashion designer

fashion designer

Mariapia Malerba

Mariapia Malerba

has created a unique

has created unique

collection of couture

collection of couture

creative fashions that

creative fashions that

are made with recycled

materials like

are made with recycled

materials like

paper, plastic, foam,

paper, plastic, foam,

and more. Her unique

and more. Her unique

and artful masterpieces

are so beautiful, one

and artful masterpieces

are so beautiful, one

would never believe

would never believe

what materials they

what materials they

are made from. After

are made from. After

20 years of experience in fashion design, Mrs. Malerba

20 years of experience in fashion design, Mrs. Malerba

decided she wanted to do something unique and out of

decided she wanted to do something unique and out of

the ordinary creating her incredible Couture Recycled

the ordinary creating her incredible Couture Recycled

Fashion Designs.

Fashion Designs.


Along with couture style fashion,

Along with couture style fashion,

Couture Style Hair is a must have!

Couture Style Hair is must have!

Saturday’s couture hairstyles will be

Saturday’s couture hairstyles will be

created by Red Salon & Spa.

created by Red Salon Spa.

December 13 TH TH & 14 TH TH , 2013

Both

Both

Friday

Friday

and

and

Saturday

Saturday

night

night

shows

shows

will

will

be

be

spectacular

spectacular

so

so

be

be

sure

sure

to

to

join

join

the

the

designers,

designers,

stylists,

stylists,

and

and

models

models

for

for

the

the

VIP

VIP

Glow

Glow

after

after

party

party

following

following

Saturday’s

Saturday’s

runway

runway

show.

show.

For

For

Fashion

Fashion

Show

Show

tickets

tickets

or

or

more

more

information

information

visit:

visit:

2301

2301

First

First

Street

Street

Fort

Fort

Myers,

Myers,

FL

FL

33901

33901

www.sbdac.com

www.sbdac.com

or

or

call

call

239-333-1933

239-333-1933

© © Robert Hayman


Designer

Profile

Anna Dudzinska

By Susana Sueldo

Anna Dudzinska, the fashion mastermind behind

Dud-zin-ska, was trained in Poland where she

has made a name of her architectural pieces

of intricate and sharp designs inspired by her

avant guarde approach to knitwear design.

The DISTILLATION collection refers to Diane

Tuft’s photographs documenting the fragility

and the extraordinary ever-changing environment,

showing structures and forms which

cannot be seen through naked eye. These

transitory moments are caught once giving no

chance for repetition and prove that nature is

not constant.

In her works we’ll find a fascination of enormous

glaciers, which Diane has photographed

for several years. This constantly moving body

of dense ice conceals plenty of colors and

forms – from transparent water drops shining

in the sun to the massive blocks of ice. The

collection relates to these forms by combining

see-through fabrics with fleshy, hand knitted

sweaters with irregular structures.

Photography: Michał Andrysiak

Model: Alexa/ AMQ

MUA: Anna Stykała

Hair: Robert Bigus



Defining Moment

By Sandra Yeyati

Cradle Command 60" w x 30" h - Mixed-media oil painting 2012 © Renée Rey, artist

Last year, Renée Rey reached a turning point in her artistic career

when she completed Cradle Command, a piece she affectionately

calls “the blue painting.” It took her 14 days to complete, but she

has been preparing for it all of her life.

Moved by the 2011 tsunami in Japan, Rey’s birthplace, she studied

photographs of the devastation and was inspired to depict the

children caught in the ruins. Four of them are featured prominently

in the painting. “They are huddled together so they have each other,

but at the same time there’s a disconnect,” she says.

The figures are separated from the buildings on the other side of

the canvas, which is certainly what happened to many victims of the

tsunami who lost their homes and everything they owned. Rey suggests

that the separation also can be viewed from a more universal

perspective. “It could be personal disconnect from yourself or other

people, or from where you live or your culture. Maybe you don’t feel

comfortable. Women in certain cultures feel out of place,” she says.

The buildings may represent home or society—the establishment.

Rey likes to play with perceptions so that the viewer is unsure where

things begin and where they end. She blurs edges, accentuating

the space and distance between things. In Cradle Command, two

hands are holding strings, but the hands seem disengaged from the

person’s body and the strings fade away before they actually attach

to anything.

Rey sees the figure pulling the strings as the spiritual leader. “She’s

young, but there’s a maturity there. She’s looking right at you saying,

‘I know the answer. Do you?’ She may not know all the answers,

but she’s connected to what’s out there,” Rey says.

From a very early age, Rey was fascinated by her Jewish heritage.

Her favorite bedtime story was the story of Moses. “I connected

with the concept of the hero. He saved people, and I always thought

I was going to change the world,” she says. The story taught Rey

another lesson: “Jews were enslaved for 400 years, and they were

able to get out. The underdog wins,” she says. Rey’s passion for her

heritage propelled her to obtain a master’s degree in Jewish education.

Cradle Command portrays a struggle, but it also suggests that we

must stick together and protect everybody, especially the innocent.

“It has to do with a belief in Jewish tradition that at any given

time there are 36 righteous people on Earth, but you don’t know

who they are, so you have to defend and protect everyone,” Rey

explains.

The soldiers in the painting are defending the children. But in a surreal

twist, they are toy soldiers. Although the kids are dealing with

devastation and separation, they also are playing with toys. “Why

do we give children army people to play with anyway? What is that

teaching them?” Rey asks, enjoying the fact that the painting offers

so much to discuss.


Drawing from another aspect of her past—an interior design degree

from Parsons New School for Design, in New York City, where she

ran a design business in the 1990s—the string and the lines extending

out from the buildings in Cradle Command are suggestive of the

grid lines of a floor plan. “I love the geometry of interior design and

often incorporate it in my paintings,” Rey says.

Creating lines of a different type, the people in the painting appear

under a barrage of dripping paint, which seems appropriate within

the context of a wet, chaotic tsunami. But from the artist’s perspective,

it also represents freedom—the permission she gives herself to

let accidents happen. “It’s letting the paint do what it wants to do,”

Rey says.

Is Cradle Command a dark painting? On one hand, it depicts devastation

and struggle. But its message and the artist’s intention are

positive. “Sometimes you have to go through the bad to know that

you’re connected to people. Look at 9/11 and how it brought everybody

together in this country. When things go bad we can rally,” Rey

says.

Faced with adversity, we must cling to each other and protect everyone.

As Rey puts it, “I can be better, you can be better and we can

be better together. It’s that higher purpose. It may be messy and

dark to get there, but that’s part of it. And people are going through

it at different times; you help bring someone up, and when you’re

down, someone will pull you back up.”

Bringing together elements and techniques from past work, her

Jewish studies, interior design and her childhood, Rey creates a

meaningful work of art with a healing message. Never before has

one of her paintings felt so personal and yet so universal. It goes a

long way toward her principal goal: making a difference in the world

through her art.

Sandra Yeyati is a writer and photographer in Naples, Florida. Reach her at

SandraYeyati@gmail.com

2013 ©Renée Rey, Artist - Reverse the Rules


punctum

contra

punctum

A M E R I C A N

E D I T I O N

vizualuri xelovnebis saerTaSoriso gamofena

INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION OF VISUAL ART


punctum

contra

punctum

A M E R I C A N

E D I T I O N

National Museum

Exhibition



The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in Fort Myers Florida

is excited to announce the international exhibition Punctum

Contra Punctum II, American Edition, at the Sidney & Berne

Davis Art Center. The show will open December 11th, 2013

and will run through December 30th, 2013. This international

exhibition project, which originated at The Georgian National

Museum’ National Gallery in Tbilisi, Georgia, first took place

September 2013 and was curated by the American curator

Richard L. Tooke, MFA., a retired director at the Museum of

Modern Art (MoMA), New York.

This is the first time an exhibition and cultural exchange of

this magnitude originating at a national museum will be seen

in Southwest Florida.

The project’s mission is to reveal the main focus of global

culture. Culture has a unique identity, which is determined by

its traditions. At the same time, culture expresses the distinct

ways that people living in different parts of the world classify

and represent their experiences, and act creatively. It makes

one nation’s artistic language understandable for the others.

Globalization provides the opportunity for all national cultures

to become equal participants of a universal system of values.

PUNCTUM CONTRA PUNCTUM II’s goal is to harmonize cultural

diversity by use of technology and esthetics.

The world where the modern artist exists and creates is

very contradictive. The emotions and reactions of the artists

confront the conditions of today’s political and socio-cultural

environment. The project PUNCTUM CONTRA PUNCTUM II is

a means of bringing together these contradictive ideas, which

American, Georgian, European, Asian and Latin American

artists offer to the public, using different media technologies

(painting, photography, digital art, multimedia and music).

Twenty-two artists from different parts of the world were

selected:

Grimanesa Amoros (Peru), Alex Berdysheff (Georgia), Nicholas

Berdysheff (Georgia), Patricia Frida (Austria), Antonio Guerrero

(Cuba), Marco Nicolas Heinzen (Switzerland), Hollis Jeffcoat

(USA), Edouard Mortec (France), Evelin Juen (Austria),

Stephen Knapp (USA), Maria Fernanda Lairet (Venezuela),

Rainer Lagemann (Germany), Michael Vincent Manalo (Philippines),

Emilio Merlina (Italy), Andreas Oetker-Kast (Germany),

Gega Paksashvili (Georgia), Maka Razmadze (Georgia), Michael

St. Amand (USA), Steven Tobin (USA), Guram Tsibakhashvili,

(Georgia), Nino Jvania (Georgia), and Kat Epple (USA).

To underline the cultural exchange as the main focus of the

project, a wide program of activities encompassing artists’

lectures, workshops, studio visits, concerts and more will accompany

the exhibition. All of these events will be open to the

public.

Opening Night Festivities Include a Short Concert By Nino

Jvania (Georgia) & Kat Epple (USA) Light Installation Artist Jim

Takas displays His awesome outdoor installation during the

opening. The events starts @ 7:PM

Punctum Contra Punctum II, American Edition, is organized by

the Sidney & Berne Davis Arts Center, with support by the City

of Fort Myers, the Ministry of Culture and Monument Protection

of Georgia and the US Embassy in Georgia. The project

director is the American painter and Fort Myers resident

Michael St. Amand, the project curator is Richard L. Tooke,

formerly Museum of Modern Art, New York.

www.sbdac.com

bt:st verlag


punctum

contra

punctum

A M E R I C A N

E D I T I O N



Point

Point

Against

Harmonically Interdependent

By Jade Dellinger

Jade DELLINGER: Following our "Things Not Seen Before: A

Tribute to John Cage" installation at the Tampa Museum of Art and

the Bob Rauschenberg Gallery at Edison State College (where you

performed with Sonic Combine and I have very recently assumed my

new post as Director), we travelled the exhibition to the National Gallery

of Art-Tbilisi. A highlight of my first trip to Georgia (former Soviet

Union) last May was having the great pleasure of co-lecturing on

John Cage with the much-celebrated pianist and musicologist Dr. Nino

Jvania and witnessing her charismatic presentation of the composer's

(still often misunderstood) 4'33" - Cage's so-called "silent" piece. Kat,

how did you first learn about her work, and what attracted you to the

idea of performing with Nino?

Kat EPPLE: I heard about musician Nino Jvania from visual artist

and "Punctum Contra Punctum II" director, Michael St Amand, who

met Nino, and attended her concert when he was in Tbilisi. After

hearing about her music, I looked for Nino on the internet, found her

on YouTube, and immediately became a fan. She is an accomplished

pianist, and I also appreciate the contemporary compositions which

she performs in concert.

Jade DELLINGER: Nino, when first we met to discuss John Cage

on your popular Radio MUZA broadcast/program in Tbilisi you proudly

shared a bootleg copy with me of Kat Epple's "Strategic Structures"

CD (a collaboration with her dear late friend Robert Rauschenberg,

the sculptor Lawrence Voytek and her longtime collaborator Bob

Stohl). It is a story that Kat really loved hearing upon my return, but

what drew you to her and how did you first learn about her work?

Nino JVANIA: Well, it was also Michael St. Amand who brought

the CD to radio MUZA, when I invited him to participate in the same

radio show you were interviewed for a year later. I was absolutely

fascinated by the music, by the amazing concept of the piece and of

course, by the performers themselves. Kat was one of them.

Like Kat, I used the web to get more information about her, and

listened to some of her recordings. Can you imagine how glad I was

to hear that I would have the opportunity to perform with her? It is

quite an extraordinary project. I am primarily a performer of academic

music… Kat is a composer and improviser, playing original music in

an amazing variety of musical styles – World Music, Jazz, Electronic

Space Music, etc. But I play mostly contemporary art music. And, as

you know, contemporary “serious” music (I hate that definition, but

still, it exists…) has already crossed those “academic” borders and is

embracing the most important achievements of other musical directions…

So, I am sure, Kat and I, we will both show, how universal

and globalized the music world is today…

JD: Kat, to date your exchanges with Dr. Jvania have been limited by

the geography (and 20-plus hours of flights) that have divided you.


What can we expect when you are united "in-person" to perform at

the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center? How has the process differed

(if at all) from previous collaborations, and will this be reflected in the

live performances you two are planning?

Kat EPPLE: It will be a pleasure to meet Nino in person, and to collaborate

with her musically. Because we just recently met via phone

a few days ago, we have not yet created a plan for what we will play

together. As Nino suggests, part of the fun will be finding our musical

common ground, our different esthetic perspectives, and bringing all

of that to the table. My previous collaborations have included a wide

variety of musicians, for example, a Heavy Metal Band, artist Robert

Rauschenberg, Mayans, dolphins, birds, and a Tuvan throat singer. I

always enjoy learning about the collaborator's unique artistic perspective,

and creating a way to add my music to create something new

together. I think working with Jvania will be fun and inspiring.

JD: Although you have travelled extensively and both have performed

around the world, Nino has yet to come to Florida and, Kat,

you have yet to get to Georgia. So, you can imagine my surprise

to be presented with a scarce bootleg of your "Strategic Structures"

CD by Nino Jvania when I joined her to record an interview at Radio

MUZA in Tbilisi. Is it true that you have discovered bootlegged copies

of your work in other unexpected places, and how did you feel in

learning of your popularity and radio-play in a country you have yet

to visit?

Kat EPPLE: I always appreciate when I arrive somewhere to find

that my music has preceded me there. I was in Russia for a concert

tour many years ago, and noticed a "New Age Fair" near the concert

venue. As I walked into the fair, I saw vendors selling typical items

like crystals, Tarot Cards, candles, and music. I stopped at the musicseller's

booth, and noticed that they were selling one of my early

albums titled "Traces of Time" by Emerald Web, on cassette. Instead

of a full-color album cover, it included a black and white photocopy

of the cover, and a hand written label. With a combination of broken

Russian, sign language, and English, I explained to the music vendors

that this album was my music. When they eventually understood

what I was trying to say, they began "gushing" about how much they

loved my music, and that their customers bought a lot of that album.

I asked to see what they used to duplicate the tapes from, and they

showed me another bootleg cassette. I decided to give them a CD of

that album so that they could produce a better quality bootleg product

in the future………..at least my music would sound closer to what I

wanted people to hear.

That album you mentioned that you found in Tbilisi, "Strategic Structures",

is a musical collaboration with visual artist, Robert Rauschenberg,

musician Bob Stohl, and me. We performed on musical metal

sculptures that were co-designed with artist Lawrence Voytek. I am

very happy to hear that Radio MUZA has it on their playlist!

JD: The title of the exhibition that unites you is "Punctum Contra

Punctum II" and the forthcoming performance in Ft. Myers, Florida

follows a visual art exhibition first presented in your home - the

(former Soviet) Republic of Georgia. Nino, how did you get involved

in the project, and what interests you most about working with Kat

now?

Photo Credits: Lee Horton, Adam Tardif, Ed Chappell

Nino JVANIA: It was Michael’s idea… After I interviewed him, we

became friends…So, next time he visited Georgia, to organize his own

exhibition in Tbilisi, I invited Michael to my concert. He was already

working on the idea of "Punctum Contra Punctum II", together with

Richard Tooke, whom I also interviewed on Radio MUZA. So, after

the concert Michael called me and said, it would be great to hear Kat

and me together on stage, in the framework of the visual arts festival

in Florida. I hope I will not disappoint him… I have to thank him and

Richard for the opportunity they gave to me – the opportunity to

present the music culture of my home country at such a prominent

event.

JD: I think of "punctum" as Roland Barthes defines it in his book,

Camera Lucida (1980), but it clearly has musical connotations as

well. As an anatomical term, "punctum" is a point or sharp tip...

However, I understand that it is also associated with the "neume" or

basic element of Western and Eastern systems of musical notation

(prior to the invention of more standard five-line staff notation). Did

you discuss the show title "Punctum Contra Punctum II" with Kat to

determine what to play?

Nino JVANIA: It does have quite a lot to do with music. The

term counterpoint originates from the Latin punctus contra punctum,

which, as you perfectly know, means point against point. Counterpoint

in music is the relationship between voices that are harmonically

interdependent, but independent in rhythm and contour. This definition

perfectly describes our show, in a metaphorical way, of course…

So, we did not even have to discuss this issue… I have already told

you, we are quite different artists (independent in a rhythm and

contour)…But we will certainly create the counterpoint on the stage,

interacting with each other!

Kat Epple

Ms. Epple is a captivating concert performer worldwide, playing high-tech synthesizers, primitive

flutes, EWI (Electronic Wind Instrument), and jazz flute. Some of her concert venues

have included: The United Nations, National Gallery, London's Union Chapel, Guggenheim

Museums, Hollywood Palace, and The Museum of Modern Art, as a solo artist, with Symphony

Orchestra, The Merce Cunningham Dance Company, Heavy Metal, New Age, and Electronic

bands. For twenty years, legendary visual artist, Robert Rauschenberg commissioned her to

perform for his art openings internationally. Kat Epple is a founding member of the vintage

electronic music ensemble, "Emerald Web". She also travels the globe, collecting indigenous

flutes from various cultures, and often incorporates their unique sounds in her original compositions.

Ms. Epple has released 28 albums internationally, in music styles including New Age, Electronic,

Contemporary, Jazz, and World Music. Kat Epple has created a huge variety of music

for film, including diverse subjects from dinosaurs to outer space; from The Metropolitan

Museum of Art to "WWE Smackdown", and everything in between. Her current project is

composing music for a film for The Hong Kong Science Museum's dinosaur exhibit projected

onto their 60-foot wide movie screen. For many years, she worked with Astronomer Carl

Sagan on his documentary films about space travel. Other film music credits include: National

Geographic, Nova, CNN, The Travel Channel, History Channel, The Guiding Light, PBS, Apple

Computers, and NASA. www.katepple.com

JD: I realize your performance together is titled "Border Crossings"

(perhaps for obvious reasons), but how did you interpret the

larger theme? Did you think much about the visual art presented in

the exhibition? I understand that Nino will perform some seminal

Georgian works and pieces she mastered directly under the guidance

of Karlheinz Stockhausen in Germany, but precisely what influenced or

informed the musical selections you are planning to perform?

Nino JVANIA: "Punctum Contra Punctum II" presents contemporary

Georgian visual art in the context of international cultures…

That’s how I understand the concept of the festival. So, I have decided

to present several contemporary Georgian piano pieces, juxtaposing

them with piano pieces by one of the significant representatives of

contemporary music – German composer K. Stockhausen. Of course,

in order to literally follow the concept, I should have included into the

program composers of other nationalities too… But I have tried to

build rather a homogenous program… These are the pieces that just

sound good together. They “build” a perfect punctum. The concert

itself will be quite diverse, as Kat is going to continue the program

with her own punctum… And then we will unite ourselves, improvising

together… So, it will be punctum contra punctum on different levels. I

hope the public will like our interpretation of a larger theme.

Jade Dellinger is Director of the Bob Rauschenberg Gallery at Edison State College.

Nino Jvania

Pianist, musicologist, Doctor of Sciences. After the successful graduation from V. Saradjishvili

Tbilisi State Conservatoire in 2000 Nino Jvania went to Germany to study at the

R. Schumann-Hochschule Düsseldorf. She used the opportunity of studying in Europe to

get acquainted with some new interesting expressions of musical thinking. Her particular

interest in contemporary music led her to the prizewinning performance at the Orléan

International Piano Competition of 20th Century-Music, followed by the participation in international

festivals, courses and symposia, dedicated to contemporary professional music.

During her studies in Germany she was the grant holder of the Alfred Toepfer Stiftung, the

Heinrich Boell Foundation and the International Ensemble Modern Academy.

The interest in modern music determined also her scientific work. Upon returning to Georgia,

she took the Doctor’s Degree. Her doctoral dissertation observes the piano work by

K. Stockhausen and some issues on interpretation of New Music. The author of several

scholarly works and a monograph on Contemporary Piano Music, she works as an Associate

Professor at the Special Piano Faculty of V. Saradjishvili Tbilisi State Conservatory.

In 2011 she joined the staff of classical music radio station “Muza” as a programme manager,

but left the position in 2013 to participate in an exchange program, enabling her to spend a

year at the Department of Music at NYU as a Visiting Scholar.

www.zhvaniasisters.com


punctum

contra

punctum

A M E R I C A N

E D I T I O N



Richard L. Tooke

Curator

When I was asked to be the curator for the 2013 edition of PUNCTUM

CONTRA PUNCTUM II I was given a set of guidelines to continue the

goals and mission to focus on the cultural exchange and one-one-one

connections through the visual arts on an international scope. It was

an exciting challenge that I willingly accepted. Working for a year

to gather twenty world class artists to interact on this scale seemed

daunting, but by working with a group of Georgian artists, plus artists

from Germany and the United States we put together an exemplary

group of participants. There were to be five Georgian and five from

the United States. The others were to be from other nations. We all

gathered together in Tbilisi in August 2013 at the Georgian National

Museum’s National Gallery to make this exhibition a reality.

Having selected the artists and the works of art to be exhibited, I

came prepared with floor plans and had a clear idea of where each

work of art was to be positioned. Even though I was fully prepared to

install the exhibition, knowing that the reality of seeing the works of

art placed in the specific gallery that I had chosen would need some

fine tuning. I arrived five days early to assemble the works of art in

the galleries. As the artists arrived and the works of art were uncrated

and put in place, it became clear from the beginning that this cultural

exchange idea would work perfectly. Here we had twenty artists from

thirteen different nations, with our own cultures and languages working

closely together with the same goal. When small and large problems

arose they were discussed. Various alternatives were suggested.

Within a minimum amount of time the solution was clear. We acted

accordingly. The problem was solved and we moved on. When the

opening reception occurred on Sunday, 1 September 2013 my concept

had been realized but it could not have been so without the assistance

of the National Museum’s staff and the participating artists.

To exemplify the cultural exchange and one to people connection, the

opening gallery exhibited works of art by two Georgian artists: Nicholas

Berdysheff and Gega Paksashvili; two American artists: Steve Tobin

and Michael St. Amand; plus an Italian: Emilio Merlina. Moving to

the right into a large dimly lit gallery with works of art that dealt with

water and light. American artist Hollis Jeffcoat’s paintings inspired

by the Gulf Coast of Florida; Georgian artist Guram Tsibakhashvili’s

WATER MEMORY digital prints: American Stephen Knapp’s: Lightpainting:

NO BOUNDARIES and the video art of Grimanesa Amoros:

MIRANDA, photographed on the coast of her native Peru. This was

a quite contemplative gallery with lots of space. Going back through

the opening gallery to the next gallery you enter a large brightly lit

gallery with many disciplines (sculpture, digital art, photographs, and

paintings) on display here. Bright colors and images that make you

look from one artist’s work to another and back again. The works

of art here represent: Georgia (Maka Razmadze), Germany (Rainer

Lagemann & Andreas Oetker-Kast), Cuba (Antonio Guerrero), France

(Edouard Mortec), Austria (Patricia Frida), and The Philippines (Michael

Vincent Manalo). The last gallery has two artists, Maria Fernanda

Lairet (Venezuela) and Marco Nicolos Heinzen (Switzerland) with

multiple images that fill entire walls, and two artists Alex Berdyheff

(Georgia) & Evelin Juen (Austria) whose images bring to mind the Surrealists

and offer a contrast.

We are now in the process of replicating the Georgian exhibition:

PUNCTUM CONTRA PUNCTUM II, in a different location: The Sidney

& Berne Davis Art Center, Fort Myers, Florida, USA. I know that my

plan and vision will only happen with the same kind of comradely, mutual

respect and by working together in the same way that occurred

in Tbilisi, Georgia. And it will be the same in the USA too. You are

invited to experience this visual dialogue between diverse cultures.

Photo Credit: Nicholas Berdysheff


Maria Fernanda Lairet

Venezuela

LAIRET BOLIVIA SALAR DE UYUNI 7 2013

Born in Caracas, Venezuela. She did

drawing studies in Newman Design

Foundation 1982- 1984. After, she

graduates of Graphic Design Studies

Caracas Institute of Design 1984- 1987.

During her career, she has studied graphic

design, drawing, photography, painting,

and other art disciplines that she

combines in her recent works, a result of

mixed techniques and new technology.

She has participated recently in several

international and national art fairs:

Museum of Heng Lu in Hangzhou 2011,

Shanghai - China; Museum of Contemporary

Art in Caracas, Venezuela 2011; ETNIA 2010- 2011, 2012

Belgica, Luxembourg, and Holland); MIA Art Fair 2011, Miami

Beach; Shanghai Art Fair 2011- 2012; PINTA London Art Fair

2011-2012; PINTA New York Fair 2011; Base Paint Auction

2011, Miami; Iberoamerican Art Fair FIART 2011, Dominican

Republic; Iberoamerican Art Fair FIA 2010- 2011- 2012-2013

Venezuela, Bienal del Sur in Panamá 2013, Collective at the

Museum of Naples – USA 2013, Collective Little Treasure in

the Gallery Marchi in Boloña – Italy 2013, Collective ,Georgian

National Museum/National Gallery 2013

and others.

The most important and latest exhibitions where she

had participated are: International Biennale Artists Exhibition

Miami, Florida, USA 2012 - 2013; Installation of art in 200

mts of the second floor of the Exterior Bank, headquarter

in Caracas 2012-2013; OPEN GALLERY EDITIONS 2, 3 & 4

Milagros Bello, Ph.D. Director/Chief Curator Curator’s Voice

Art Projects Contemporary Art Gallery Wynwood Art District,

Miami, USA 2012; 35 & 37 Salón Nacional

Arte Aragua, Maracay, Venezuela(2010

- 2012- 2013; BASE PAINT, Auction

in profit of the school L’Athletique D’Haiti,

Miami, USA(2011);Museum of Contemporary

Art,group show of "Waves of

history, legends and purposes",

Caracas, Venezuela 2011; Art Shanghai

2011- 2012, Solo show, China; Group

Show in Heng Lu Art Museum de Hangzhou

2011; Latin American Art Museum

of Amersfoort, Utrecht 2011 . "Reliefs

and Sculptures" in Art Nouveau Gallery,

Miami, USA 2011; Solo show “Global Narratives”

in Estudio Arte 8 Gallery 2010;

“Identities“ Espacio MAD Caracas 2010;

Venezuela 2010; "Reliefs and Sculptures" in Art Nouveau

Gallery, Maracaibo, Venezuela; The Art to the Rescue in the

Artists Foundation Animal Protectors, BOD Corp Banca

Bank, PH,Caracas, Venezuela 2012; 66 Bienal Salón Arturo

Michelena, Valencia, Venezuela 2012; V, VI, VII Fundana Auction

2009- 2012; I Commerce and Art Event: COMARTE

2012. Baruta Municipality, Caracas, Venezuela 2012.

She is represented by many galleries: Milagros Bello, Ph.D.

Director/Chief Curator Curator’s Voice Art Projects Contemporary

Art Gallery Wynwood Art District 2012; Art Nouveau Gallery.

Miami 2010- 2011- 2013; Bandi Trazos Gallery, Korea

2011- 2012- 2013: Galería Estudio Arte 8, Caracas- Venezuela

2009- 2010- 2011- 2012; Galería Parenthesis, Caracas-

Venezuela 2010- 2011- 2012; Espacio MAD, Caracas- Venezuela

2011; Art Nouveau, Maracaibo- Venezuela 2010- 2011.


punctum

contra

punctum

A M E R I C A N

E D I T I O N




Michael St. Amand

United States of America

St. Amand (Born 1958) uses a multi-disciplined approach to his art making – painting,

printmaking, digital art, video, sculpture, installations, and mixed media constructs.

The artist’s work cannot be classified within a particular generation of art movements.

St. Amand’s style is a combination of Avant-Garde, Abstract Expressionism, Modernism,

and Color-Field Painting. The artist focuses on the basic elements of an artwork

– color, shape, and composition and chooses materials to psychologically evoke certain

kinds of feelings.

St. Amand’s paintings affect the space in which they hang. His use of multi-layered

raw, vibrant color and fluorescent pigments put the viewer on the spot. His paintings

vibrate with energy and light causing the art to interact with the audience. The

artwork reflects glaring bursts of color back at the viewer, necessitating a multi-angled

tour of the canvas in order to form a complete image of it. Because of the way light

reacts to the fluorescent pigments, as ones physical relationship to them changes so

does the artwork.

Repicant 2012

There is nothing “quick” about St. Amand's work. His art needs time to be ingested,

digested, and contemplated. Messages are coming from all sides -- political, social,

cultural, sexual, and aesthetical. St. Amand juxtaposes the sacred with the profane

and leaves the viewers to determine where on the continuum their perceptions lie.

“All the objects are just objects. As with all art, it is what the viewer brings to it,” St.

Amand says of his work. “It is the viewer’s own – very personal – reactionary emotion

or self-analysis. Whether it is disdain or shock, passion or compassion, every

person will create his or her own truth attached to the work.” This is at the heart

of St. Amand’s work. As art, his pieces are unique and visually engaging. As social

commentary, they are thought evoking and provoking. His work inspires conversation

and insight into three worlds: the artist’s, the one in which we all share, and the very

personal one within each individual.

Michael St. Amand, with the endorsement of the United States Embassy and The

Georgian Ministry of Culture, had two solo exhibitions: Myths and Mayhem exhibited

at the Tbilisi History Museum and the Signagi Museum in the Republic of Georgia in

2013. In addition he has earned numerous awards for his work. The artist has been

listed in Art in America Magazine’s Who’s Who in American Art. He has exhibited

his art nationally and internationally, including Paris, Bordeaux, New York City, The

Republic of Georgia, Germany, Dallas, New Zealand, Washington, D.C., and throughout

Florida. His work can be found in many corporate and private collections.

Photo Credit: Michael St. Amand by Nicholas Berdysheff

Tipping Point 2013

www.michaelstamand.com


punctum

contra

punctum

A M E R I C A N

E D I T I O N



ALEX BERDYSHEFF

The Republic of Georgia

There were several steps or periods in my artistic career. They depended on skills

I developed, my vision in particular life period and the possibilities that existed.

I began to work in three-dimensional collages using found objects. It allowed

me to take an object and change its qualities the way I wanted. It was also an

exploration of color, texture and the substance of painting. Finished with that,

I started working on paper, experimenting with collage, water-based colors and

any materials I could find. At the same time I started using natural rust in my

work, droping some iron into water for few days or weeks to develop this pigment.

I still use this method. As so often happens, the decision to stretch canvas

and start painting in oils was a spontaneous one. Now I prefer this medium. My

palette became more varied, it’s always fascinating to discover a new color. It

was interesting to push myself to use digital art and photography too. I have no

idea where I get ideas for my pictures. Maybe, it is the ability to enter a state

of mind where images and concepts appear and transform themselves. I won’t

reject a sudden idea, even if it is markedly different from my usual style, after

all, who knows where this door may lead? Many of my best works are the direct

result of mistakes, and each mistake makes a painting unique and closer to real

life. Influence? From Prehistoric cave art to Russian Avantgarde and Surrealism.

My artwork, oil painting, digital art and photography is a combination of figurative,

often distorted objects with pure abstract forms and textural components.

They coexist beyond any physical or logical limits, revealing the invisible tension

and eternal struggle between or inside all forms of matter and giving rise to

doubt in the reality of the visible. Chaos and deformation on the one hand and

sharp lines and precisely rendered details on the other remain my basic aesthetic

concepts, no matter I get representative or abstract results.

Chamber

Choice Point

www.arundelartroom.com

Photo Credit: Nicholas Berdysheff


Photo Credit : Andreas Oetker-Kast_by_Angelika Oetker-Kast

Lemberg

Andreas Oetker-Kast

Germany

www.andreasok.com

Coney Island - Brooklyn, NY

Andreas Oetker-Kast (*1964) is a freelance photographer based in Kiel, Germany. Following his studies in sociology he pursued a career

in international public relations, for six years in Germany followed by two years in the United States. Upon his return to Germany in

2003 he turned to professional photography, specializing in documentary style and music photography. He was participating in seminars

at the Ostkreuz School of Photography, Berlin from 2006-2009, first under the guidance of Michael Trippel (2006) followed by Werner

Mahler (May 2007-2009). Since 2006 his work has been exhibited in solo and group exhibitions in Germany and internationally, was

published in books and catalogs and selected works can be found in private and institutional collections.


punctum

contra

punctum

A M E R I C A N

E D I T I O N



frozen memories

Nicholas Berdysheff

The Republic of Georgia

Since an early age my life has been focused around art and the drive to create it.

In my work, I combine my passion for photography and the skills of digital imaging

techniques, in order to create a world that appears habitual, yet obviously an interpretation

of the physical reality that encircles us. I begin with a concept in mind,

yet I may not know exactly how the artworks will correspond with one another

at the end. Because I like a high level of detail, I work very slowly, usually taking

several weeks per piece.

I want the pieces I create to echo and resonate with the viewer. Many of my works

are inspired by a fabulous range of textures and colors. Working with digital media

allows for exploring many alternate paths for one artwork. In photography I don't

want to limit myself to one particular theme. I take pictures of various genres - urban,

portraits, nature, etc. Basically I do digital art and Motion Graphics. However,

I enjoy photography because I like capturing things that interest me both from

artistic and documentary sides. It’s my choice of media to reflect the outer world.

Photo by: Nino Keshelava

wind


www.multimediaart.wix.com/nicholasberdysheff

HOLLIS JEFFCOAT


Rebis VI

Hollis Jeffcoat studied at the Kansas City Art Institute

and the New York Studio School with some of the

great painter/teachers of our time, and apprenticed

with Joan Mitchell in France for three years. She has

lived, worked and taught in France, Canada, New York

and had her own painting school in Naples, Florida.

She now lives and works on Sanibel Island, Florida.

Mr. Yellowtail's Journey

Painting for me is not about illustrating an idea, but rather

finding the essence through experimentation even if it means

losing a painting altogether, better that than leaving something

partially realized. I’m willing to go back – scraping, washing

down, to re-see it. It’s this process that led me to understand

that my work is about finding the light.

I know what I’m looking for when I start a painting, but as the

process goes along I lose control of it – there is no solid footing.

I want to take the viewer with me on this journey.

At the end of a painting or when I feel there’s nothing more to

change, it’s as though all the emotion that was in me is now in

the painting – I’ve been relieved of it.

www.Hollisjeffcoat.com

Grande Meduse I


punctum

contra

punctum

A M E R I C A N

E D I T I O N



Michael Vincent Manalo

The Philippines

Michael Vincent Manalo is a photographer and a photo-manipulator. His work is inspired by the imagined memories of nostalgic

and dream-like environments; his works documents their decline into post-apocalyptic and nightmarish creations.

The themes seen on his work revolve around surrealism, magic realism and realism. Most of his work is inspired by

melancholy, nostalgic memories, dreamy landscapes, sentimental and warm emotions to dark and brooding atmospheres;

weird and nightmarish dreams; medieval fantasy to post-apocalyptic scenes; memories of being away from home and the

concept of home; subjective and objective views on society and supernatural and paranormal themes. The works that he

creates tries to confront the modern rules and implications of the today’s fast-paced society.

Artist Statement:

Life has always been a fascination to me. From those inevitable school fights during the elementary years to those wild

days of puberty. From the lonesome people in the parks to the 8-inched mohawked people during concerts. From feeling

someone else's warmth to dealing with the blackness within.

There were a lot of emotions - pain, happiness, love and warmth, glory, success, failures, torture, jealousy, excitement,

rage, pride. All these converged and met at a common point in time and space and created who I am, what I want to

explore and what I hope to achieve.

Vast images come to my mind each day as a result of the radical emotions that fill me in each heartbeat. I try to recreate it

as soon as I could by combining photographs and techniques in illustration to recreate those concepts in mind.

I forge these images and try to relate them to the popular tales of human drama. I try to recreate these stories by illustrating

my own interpretations of these emotions or sometimes literally creating the picture wherein the emotion can be

distinguished.

When I started, I wasn't aware that I started a quest: so for now, until I decide to stop, I will try to free people's minds,

and allow them to withdraw from reality and give them the opportunity to dig into a wild roller coaster of a vivid dream.


www.theflickerees.wix.com/michaelvmanalo

The Story Teller II

The Fisherman

The Remembrances of the Soul 2


punctum

contra

punctum

A M E R I C A N

E D I T I O N



Bad weather is coming up 48 x 44

Emilio Merlina

Italy

I was born in 1950 in the North East of Italy from a polish mother and a Sicilian father.

I toured the world until I was 35, then I returned to Italy and picked up again my old passion: painting and sculpture.

The human being leaves its signs, graffiti, indian dreams and imagination.

Now I only have left a few more possibilities to express the colors which are not.

Only the sign, scratched, angry or brushed is the witness.

The sign has passed from there and there it has lived.

Emilio Merlina

leftovers 14 x 24


www.absolutearts.com/emiliomerlina

Grimanesa Amorós

Peru

Grimanesa Amorós is an interdisciplinary artist with diverse interests

in the fields of social history, scientific research and critical

theory, Through her art Amoros convey an ephemeral wonder,

entrancing the viewers from all different backgrounds and communities

to become agents of empowerment. She makes use of

sculpture, video, and lighting to create works that illuminate our

notions of personal identity and community. Light is one of her

primary materials because it creates presence without physicality.

In many occasions, it can be easily taken for granted, since much

of what humans perceive comes from light, yet even that which is

apparent can be mysterious.

Amoros is always looking for the instance when light, is in its

changing forms, makes us contemplate and experience an ordinary

circumstance in a different way. In many occasions, it can

be easily taken for granted, since much of what humans perceive

comes from light, yet even that which is apparent can be mysterious.

Amorós uses her art as an agent for empowerment to involve

viewers from all different backgrounds and communities. She was

born in Lima, Peru and lives and works in New York City.

Amorós is the recipient of several grants, which include the National

Endowment for the Arts Visual Artist Fellowship (Washington,

DC), The Travel Grant Fund for Artists, NEA Arts International,

(New York, NY), The Bronx Museum for the Arts: Aim Program

(Bronx, NY) and The Louis Comfort Tiffany Foundation “Participant

Biennial Competition” (New York NY). Awards also include

the X Tumi USA Award (Miami, FL) and artist residency fellowships

by Art Omi (Columbia County, NY), Santa Fe Art Institute (Santa

Fe, NM), The Virginia Center for the Creative Arts (Amherst, VA),

Artspace (Raleigh, NC) and Centrum Arts (Port Townsend, WA).

Additionally, her works have been selected for the Art in Embassies

Program of the U.S. Department of State in Ankara, Turkey

(2001) and Lima, Peru (2003).

Exhibition list: Amorós has exhibited in the United States,

Europe, Asia and Latin America.

Amoros Fortuna

Most recent exhibitions and public works include:

La Fragua Tabacalera, Madrid, Spain, 2013; Georgian National

Museum’s National Gallery, Tbilisi, Georgia, 2013; CAFA Art Museum,

Beijing, China, 2013; Harper’s Bazaar Art / Art Basel HK,

Hong Kong, China, 2013; LITVAK Gallery, Tel Aviv, Israel, 2013;

The INNOV8 Festival, “Uros House”, The Lite Center, Lafayette,

Louisiana, 2013; Voyager Video Retrospective, Yuan Space, Beijing,

China, 2012; Huanchaco, La Torre De Los Vientos, Mexico

City, Mexico, 2012; 21c Museum Hotel, “Uros”, Cincinnati, Ohio,

2012; The Route of Friendship Patronage, World Monuments

Fund, Nina Menocal Gallery, Mexico D.F. 2012; Breadboard and

PECO building, Art in the Air “UVASIS”, Philadelphia, PA 2012;

The Flag Art Foundation “Watch Your Step”, New York, NY 2012;

Seoul National University Museum of Art, Seoul, South Korea,

2012; 54th Biennale di Venezia, Illuminazioni – Illuminations Collateral

Event Future Pass, Venice, Italy.


punctum

contra

punctum

A M E R I C A N

E D I T I O N



Carried to the shores of another life

Yesterday believed to be gone

But where to is it disappeared

On the border of tomorrow found itself again

In the voice of the siren

Carried into glimmering of the red cheeked day

Sprinkled from the shadow wickerwork of the night

Everything is only time

The questions that pile up to babel

Tumble into floating

And go away

Eternal Change of tide is the answer find out the question

Bringing me up

Evelin Juen - Artist

Evelin Juen

Austria

Tiffanis

Neptunes vision

www.evelinjuen.at


Stephen Knapp


Formed at the intersection of painting,

sculpture, and architecture lightpaintings

are intangible, multi-dimensional

compositions of pure radiance.

Stephen Knapp is an American artist

best known as the creator of lightpaintings,

which have been called

the first new art medium of the

twenty-first century. Dispensing

with traditional media and narrative

content, Knapp is one of a small group

of artists who work with light. His

lightpaintings make visible the light

that surrounds us and transforms it

into something physical yet inherently

transcendental.

Deriving inspiration from his studies

of light, color, dimension, space and

perception, artist Stephen Knapp has

been creating art that interacts with

and is transformed by light for over

thirty years. He began his career as

a photographer and evolved his own

specialized processes through research

and experimentation. He progressed

to building large metal panels

and glazed ceramic murals that are

reflective and responsive to changing

light conditions. What followed was

the fabrication of kiln-formed glass

walls and glass and steel sculpture, all

leading up to his more recent focus on

lightpaintings, a word Knapp coined to

describe his light-based installations.

Called the first new art medium of the

twenty-first century, lightpaintings are

created with light, glass, and stainless

steel and exist at the intersection of

painting, sculpture, and technology.

In speaking about his work, Stephen

Knapp states, “I have been fascinated

with light all my life, both for what it

can do and for the effect it has on us.

In all my prior mediums I’ve used light

in ways that are not always apparent.

When I found a way to uniquely

express myself in light, I embraced it

fully. With my lightpaintings I separate

white light into pure color and

‘paint’ with light. Each piece has a

presence that far exceeds its physical

dimensions. At once both physical

objects and illusions, they remind us

that dreams, hopes and aspirations

are the center of art’s ability to touch

the human spirit.”

Knapp has gained an international

reputation for large-scale works of art

held in museums, public, corporate

and private collections, in media as

diverse as light, kiln formed glass,

metal, stone, mosaic and ceramic. He

has had solo museum exhibitions at

the Boise Art Museum, the Chrysler

Museum of Art, the Naples Art Museum,

the Butler Institute of American

Art, the Dayton Art Institute and the

Flint Institute of Arts, among others.

His work has appeared in many international

publications including Art and

Antiques, Architectural Record, ARTnews,

Ceramics Monthly, The Chicago

Sun Times, Interior Design, The New

York Times, Progressive Architecture,

and Sculpture Magazine.

What Isn't Is

False Prophet-detail

www.lightpaintings.com


punctum

contra

punctum

A M E R I C A N E D I T I O N

Rainer



Lagemann

Germany

Rainer Lagemann is a notable sculptor, born in Düsseldorf,

Germany in 1959. He received his formal education at the FH

Lippe University in Detmold, Germany, specializing in Design and

Architecture.

In 1988, Rainer moved to the San Francisco Bay Area to open his

first retail store committed to selecting and importing the finest

of modern European furniture. His work with European manufacturers

and artisans resulted in developing a successful retail

gallery with a dedicated clientele of modern design connoisseurs.

In 2007 he sold his share of the business to concentrate on his

lifelong passion: sculpture.

Rainer is fascinated by the human body, the classic theme of

artistic expression and struggle, depicted in all shapes, materials

and mediums since the existence of mankind.

The hollow squares strip away distractions, leaving a powerful

vision and exploration of the human body, adding an element of

mystery and abstraction.

This technique adds a spiritual dimension to the human shapes

and forms and gives Rainer’s sculptures a universal quality.

With all of Rainer's sculptures there is a secondary layer of

beauty, abstraction and mystery. When darkness falls and the

lights come on, the exquisite shadows of form, squares, body and

spirit cast themselves upon the walls creating a second sculpture

of light and shadow.

Rainer’s sculpture captures the human body in motion--a freeze

frame of classic, timeless gestures and emotions. The sculptures

are both ethereal and concrete. The forms he creates are how

one imagines a Nureyev or Baryshnikov would look in mid-flight.

Rainer uses hollow metal squares to sculpt the human form, creating

works that elicit both the strength and delicacy of the body.

Each square represents the trials and tribulations of life. The

four corners are the intellectual, emotional, physical and spiritual

dimension of human being. They are the framework of the spirit

and the image of the body.

Diving

www.RainerLagemann.com


Escape


punctum

contra

punctum

A M E R I C A N

E D I T I O N



Foules

Edouard Mortec

France

My series always start with some experimentation. I like to

experiment with the cameras and to explore their limits as

a recording system of the “real”. It allows me to find and

integrate new form to the photographic language that will

resonate with our own difficulties as human being to approach

the “real”.

It is important for me to make so that when we are in front

of one of my photograph we know at once that we are in the

representation domain. And what allows this knowledge it is

the fact that the recording system will have left its trail in the

recording itself.

Hereafter

I confront the abstract and the figurative and thus evoke the

internal world and the outside world to make the frontier

blur. This abstract-realistic research in photography is also

the better way I found to evoke material and spiritual world

and find out how to marry them.


www.edouardmortec.com

Antonio

Guerrero

Cuba

by Estrella Eguino.

Photo Credit: Antonio Guerrero by Leticia Del Monte

Antonio Guerrero was born in Matanzas, Cuba. On March 31, 1992 feeling increasingly oppressed

by Cuba’s government, and unhappy with the worsening living conditions, Antonio, along with two

other men, climbed into a raft they had secretly designed and built and left the island. Floating off

from the coast of Matanzas, they were at sea for five days before being rescued by Brothers to

the Rescue a humanitarian organization dedicated to rescuing rafters fleeing Cuba. He lives now

in Miami Beach, Florida.

There’s a curious connection between a person’s name and their personality. It can be more or

less described as a match or mismatch of the name of a person, with their profession, talent, or

some other obvious connotation. “Warrior” is the English translation of his last name, obviously

of close Spanish descent. Some who study the significance of names consider this trait to carry a

bit of a special half unit sort to speak; a power or energy that just like the rest of us, also seeks

universal outlet. In the case of Antonio Guerrero, his identity becomes as much an intricate part

of the revelation contained in his work, as the symbolism itself. It is the kind of work to be stared

at, and guess what? That’s exactly what this warrior wants you to do. Come on in.

Me fui con todo

His art has been hailed as having ‘Dali-esque’ undertones. Other names like Hieronymus Bosch,

and Picasso have also been tossed about with absurd disregard to style and expression. He

doesn’t consider his work anything like that of these men and rightfully so because it isn’t. It is,

like the work of true artists, a personal form of expression filled with symbolism and themes that

resonate with an inner conscience. It is perhaps in this mission that he is an equal to the surrealist

masters. The vibrant color red, the subtlety of glimmering gold backgrounds, or the black

birds that sometimes speckle his creations are some of the personal glimpses into the subliminal

conversations with a deeper state of being. The perspectives may be mystical to some, others

may recall humor, but the result will be riveting.

Antonio grew up in Matanzas, a province of Cuba, according to the artist Matanzas is known

among many other things, for being the home of a type of black birds that flap their wings noisily

to warn of the approach of people or other animals. Antonio confesses a deep connection with,

and reverence for nature, the kind that is developed by long periods of constant admiration. Due

to the isolation from the trends of the outside world, his formative years were for the most part

spent outdoors, in open fields, and in communion with nature.

Cuba the key of gulf

There is a particular type of oneness that unites those who assimilate the platform of what is

called reality. Its visualization takes many forms and Antonio Guerrero’s perspective offers limitless

variations of concepts drawn from revelations arrived after an inexhaustible search for the

human quest of self-identity. A look at some of Antonio’s pieces, from the modern iconic image of

‘Jose Marti, El Gran Poeta’ – Cuba’s greatest hero – to ‘I Universe’ from I Live in a Red Planet, will

prove there is no escaping the inexplicable pull inspired by his work.

There is plenty to satisfy the minds that demand the thrill in discovering interlocking dreams,

and for those that enjoy journeys of art expression, or those who simply find beauty in color and

balance. Be certain of one thing, this artist is an ever-evolving revelation. His pictorial tales may

haunt, pacify, upset, or simply pass one by, but the flowing source of creativity lurking in the deep

recesses of the imagination of a good artist moves on.

i Universe

www.guerreroart.com


punctum

contra

punctum

A M E R I C A N

E D I T I O N



Steve Tobin


by Thomas Connors

Miss USA 2011 Alyssa Campanella

No matter what narrative Steve Tobin implies, the work is not

contained by it--the viewer is not obliged to see what he sees.

And no matter what one does see in Steelroots, the quality of

our engagement arises from two opposing experiences. On

the one hand, these forms appear familiar, recognizable, nearly

natural. But the industrial steel pipes of which they are made

and their surface treatments--smoothly enameled; rusty, with

vein-like striation; marked with pits as big as olives--leave no

doubt that these objects are constructed, fabricated, not sprung

from the earth. Unlike traditional open-air work, historically

commemorative (the equestrian statue in the park) or utterly

decorative (the draped urn terminating a garden view), outwardly,

Tobin’s Steelroots evince no didactic purpose, no specific

agenda other than to function as works of art, to occupy space

meaningfully, imaginatively, encouraging a dialogue between

themselves and the environment.

And what is it that makes these sometimes massive steel pieces

so compatible with their surroundings? The essential absence of

a straight line, that most rational yet unforgiving of geometries.

While Tobin’s Earth Bronzes and tree roots posited a conflict

between the natural world and the built environment, criticizing

our inability to focus on whatever exists that humankind did not

manufacture, the Steelroots strike a less rigid attitude. Yes, the

curving, flowing stretches of steel coalesce to form windows on

the land and sky, reframing our perception of the environment,

but the pieces also operate as sculpture often does, as media

through which we understand our place in the world, our status

as inhabitants of a wildly diverse planet


www.stevetobin.com



Photographer: Aurélie Raidron

Model: Justine @ Gladys Models

Make-up and hair: Aurélie Raidron

Stylist: Stephanie Cappellini

Bird Sculpture: Aurélie Raidron

evolve

Stephanie Cappellini

www.13eme-lune.com


Photographer : Yann Malotti-Photographe

Model : Raphaël Toureille

Make Up : Aurélie Ormeno

Hairdresser : Belaman Cyril

Stylist : Alen Kekic and 13ème Lune by Stéphanie Cappellini

(dress : Alen K - crown: 13ème Lune)

Bijoux : Nessren Vanessa

Assistants : Laurent Baldovino & Alex Vallégant


Photographer : Yann Malotti

Assistant : Alexandra Vallégant

Model : Tifany Bly @ Roxane Vipmodels

Make-up & Hair : Eve Mak'up

Stylist : 13ème Lune

harness : Atelier Sylphe Corset


Photographer : Yann Malotti-Photographe

Model : Raphaël Toureille

Make Up : Aurélie Ormeno

Hairdresser : Belaman Cyril

Stylist : Alen Kekic and 13ème Lune by Stéphanie Cappellini

(dress : Alen K - crown: 13ème Lune)

Bijoux : Nessren Vanessa

Assistants : Laurent Baldovino & Alex Vallégant



Exploring

Worlds

HeikeSuhre


Chinagirl by Heike Suhre

Photo/Edit: Heike Suhre www.hsfotografie.com

Model: Jolien Derycke

Visagie/hair/ styling : Citty van Aart

Designer: Sebastian den Herder



Red dress By Heike Suhre

Photography: Heike Suhre www.hsfotografie.com

Designer: Lish Jecinta www.bellalinda.nl

Hair and make-up: Anna Wojnarowska

Model: Lish Jecinta

Jolien by Heike Suhre



Visagie/hair/ styling : Citty van Aart

Designer: Sebastian den Herder


White dreams by Heike Suhre

Photography: Heike Suhre www.hsfotografie.com

Designer: Monique Désar www.desardesign.nl

Hair and make-up: Nanette Montizaan www.nanettemontizaan.nl

Model: Lish Jecinta


Back to the Future by Heike Suhre



Visagie/hair/ styling /design : Citty van Aart


Attitude

Roxana Enache


photography and concept Roxana Enache

styling Daniela Mihailescu

models Lorena, Georgiana ( Face2face Model Management)

make up Natalia Kiselev

hair Elena Ionita

lingerie Jolidon

bijoux Mioara Fulga Buda (Molecule F)




styling Cristina Feather

design ID Sarrieri

model Andreea Mattei (IMC Models Agency)

make up and hair Alex Ifimov

photography Roxana Enache

fashion designer Natalia Vasiliev

model Daria Cocos

make up Roxana Armeana

hair Lucian Zoltan




styling Cristina Feather

design Andra Andreescu

model Andreea Mattei (IMC Models Agency)

make up and hair Alex Ifimov

photography Roxana Enache

fashion designer Natalia Vasiliev

models Andreea Ciupitu; Raluca Bidian(One Models Agency)

make up Natalia Kiselev

hair Elena Ionita


Designer

Profile

Julie Verfaillie

By Susana Sueldo

Created in 2012 by Julie Verfaillie, Femme Mécanique

Designs stands out with its design ethics and quality:

each piece is a unique and wearable work of art that

is 100% hand made. From a background in music and

visual art, Verfaillie decided to pursue a parallel career

in jewellery to fulfil her passion for technical challenges.

She is 100% self-taught as a metalsmith/jeweller,

of which she is very proud. Her techniques are

unique, creative and she always strives for the utmost

professionalism. Wrought from fine and sterling silver,

bronze and brass, these creations are inspired by four

distinct stylistic concepts: Urban, Tribal, Rustic and

Inspired by Nature.

Everyday a design is born, from a found pebble on the

ground that becomes a bronze ring to a minimal architectural

silver double ring. By wearing them, each

piece will be tested for its durability, its comfort and

aesthetic before putting it into the market.

Furthermore, Julie produces each piece of jewellery

she designs autonomously and is directly involved in

every aspect of production from start to finish. She

does not have her pieces produced in series or cast

from moulds by a third party.

She instead constructs her creations from an assortment

of wires that she bends, shapes, hammers and

solders together. She also works with precious metal

clay of the bronze and silver varieties, in which case

she moulds in silicone an assortment of found objects

or sculpts the piece directly in the clay. She then dried

the clay and fires in a kiln to sinter the metal particles

together for hours. Once the pieces have been handfashioned

or fired in the kiln, they are sanded to perfection

and subsequently polished and work-hardened

in a tumbler.

It is very important to Julie that her work is ecofriendly.

Thus, every piece of scrap metal is melted

into pebbles to create her famous Asteroid Earrings.


PETUNIASOFNAPLES.COM

852 5th Ave South | Naples, FL 34102 | 239.262.2128

Maternity

Tips and Trends

By Olivia Capone Myers

Wear Stripes

Stripes are a trend that is

still going strong! Despite

common misconception,

stripes are actually flattering

to your figure during

your pregnancy. The side

ruching on this top helps

create definition for your

bump. Pair the top with

a destructed denim jean

and you have the perfect

weekend look. The jeans

contain our patented Secret

Fit Belly® which keeps you

comfortable and adjusts to

your changing figure so you

can wear them throughout

your pregnancy and

beyond.

Nursing Cardigan, $36.98; Side Ruched Clip-Down Nursing Cami, $24.98

¾ Sleeve Scoop Neck Side Ruched Tee, $29.98; Celebrity Pink Secret Fit Belly Destructed Jeans, $49.98

Cozy Up in a Cardigan

Cardigans are a great layering

piece and can be worn

over anything from pants to

dresses and skirts. Pairing a

knit cardigan with skinny jeans

that feature our patented

Secret Fit Belly® is the perfect

way to be both on-trend and

super-comfortable. Smoky

grey is the color to crave this

season and the cascading cut

is both flattering and feminine.

Layer your cardigan with a

side ruched tee or a clip down

nursing tank which is great for

after baby!

Dress It Up

Dresses are always a staple

during your pregnancy: they’re

comfortable, stylish, and versatile.

The feminine detailing and

sophisticated brocade fabric of

this dress make it perfect for

a holiday gathering or a more

formal occasion such as your

baby shower. The belt creates

an ultra-flattering effect when

placed above your bump, providing

shape, and also is adjustable

so you can wear it later on

throughout your pregnancy and

even after your baby is born.

Add some bangles and you are

ready to go!

Motherhood Maternity, features Jessica Simpson Maternity collection. Jessica Simpson Maternity collection

beautiful summer lightweight maxi dresses, skinny leg denim, feminine tunics, etc.

Motherhood has a local store at the Brandon Town Center in Brandon and Lakeside Village in Lakeland.

Jacquard Dress with Removable Belt, $44.98

Button Front Convertible Sleeve Tunic, $34.98; Velvet Under Belly Legging, $24.98

Go Graphic!

This season, it’s all

about the graphic tee

and this one really says

it all! You’ll want it for

yourself and it makes

a great gift for a fellow

mom-to-be. Paired

with our soft and cozy

velour set, this look will

keep you feeling both

comfortable and stylish

when you’re on the

couch or on-the-go.

Try A Tunic

One of the most flattering

and versatile

pieces for mom-to-be,

the tunic is on-trend

this season! Tunics can

easily be dressed up—

over a pair of coated

denim-- or down with

our velvet Secret Fit

Under Belly® leggings.

The waist-cinching tie

really helps to show off

your baby bump. Tunics

can be worn all three

trimesters and even

post pregnancy. This

look is pictured with

flats but I love it with

booties, too!

Sleeveless Scoop Neck Jingle Bellies Tank, $24.98; Velour Zip Jacket and Velour Under Belly Pant, $29.98/each


Designer

Profile

Maguelonne Toissant-Samat

By Susana Sueldo

"

Ambiguous and indecipherable. Enclosed,

into custody, masked, covered, veiled,

falsified. Something is hidden.

This is the body dressed

"

This collection explores the light and ethereal

side of our imaginary world. Making a contrast

between the enclosed concept of winter, this

spring/summer collection 2013-2014 deals

with the idea of dismantling and our taste for

fragility, the minimalism and the slightest and

tiniest gesture.

The collection builds up on the mystery of

a half dressed body and travels through the

process of dressed and naked.

The designer focuses on the areas that are

covered against the ones that are not, highlighting

the senses of a near sensuality. The

collection deals with the feminine universe,

sometimes boxed, dividing the natural from

the manufactured, looking for those signals

women need to express themselves. The body

is always present, protected by 3D layers,

just insinuating through the transparencies.

QUIER is an Eco Friendly brand that focuses

on functionality, sustainability, durability and

deconstruction.


Rejuvenated

Feel Refreshed and

By Shiri Sarfati

I recommend adding a little aromatherapy

to your morning routine.

Wake up and smell the energy with

a wonderfully invigorating shower

coupled with a powerful dose of

aromatherapy. A shower gel laced

with stimulating peppermint and

spearmint will energize your senses

and get you in the holiday spirit.

Grapefruit aroma is also said to

help kick start your metabolism

(just what you need to get through

your busy party schedule) and is oh

so refreshing. Try Repêchage Vita

Cura Triple Action Shower & Bath

Gel ($28).

Follow your morning shower with a stimulating 5 minute body

massage. Using your fists, knead into targeted areas like hips

and buttocks and then use upward movements with your hands

on your legs to help improve your circulation. Finish your massage

with some tapotement movements (rhythmic percussionlike

movements with the edge of your hand) on your hips and

buttocks. Massage the rest of your body with gentle effleurage

movements (gentle massage strokes that warm up the body).

Use a body cream that has stimulating benefits for your skin like

caffeine, herbs, and essential oils like peppermint. Try Repêchage

Vita Cura Body Contouring Cream ($52).

Starting your morning off with an aromatic shower and stimulating

at-home body massage can help you get through the

holiday season stress-free and energized. Happy Holidays!

The holidays are often a fun and joyous time but it can also

wreck havoc on your diet and even your mood. Holiday gift

shopping, airport delays and family drama can all create stress

increasing cortisol levels and affecting not only your mood but

also your waist. In fact cortisol levels are said to be higher in

the morning, so a great way to relieve stress is right from when

you wake up – and that siren-sounding alarm clock is not helping

you relax by the way.

www.Repêchage.com


Insight into

Designer

Osvaldo Montalbano is an Italian designer who put together

incredible mix of Italian tailor and oriental atmosphere coming

from Japan, the country that he loves a lot. That’s why in his

collection blue, bluette, white, gray color will never miss such

as pois and volumes combine together to give the most original

product you can imagine.

Osvaldo Montalbano

by Kamila Domagala

Photography by Oscar Bernelli

As a person Osvaldo reflects, or vice versa, his creations: eccentric,

creative, unique in everyday life, a true artist. The only

difference between him and his creations is that he prefers to

stay behind the wing and let his work speak for him.

The last S/S 2014 Collection is inspired to the Mary Poppins

character. For sure it was a surprise for everyone that saw his

clothes at Milan and Paris Showroom. Two distinguished Collection

he wanted to create: blue for Milan and white for Paris.

Blue blouses with great volumes every women can feel great

in. Particular cone back shirts, mile long skirts gather in refined

form, long- short skirts with loop to play with.

White pants with laces everyone can make them own, marvelous

gray raincoats with inside pockets to be more mended. And the

incredible dress made by kilometers of cloth to be recognizable

everywhere.

His career started in far 1981 with his beautiful and elegant

shop in Cuneo, northern Italy, and never stops since that. His

creativity is in continuous evolution and it seems to have no limit

that’s why he collaborated in many creative environment making

clothes for theaters, ballets and many events all around the

world. For the most courageous and eccentric brides he is also

making beautiful wedding dresses which are unique because

tailored. His skilled hands and out of common imagination with

great fabrics he using, create surprise collections that every

Montalbano’s admirers waiting with bated breath to be never

disappointed. And how anybody be disappointed if to his natural

minimalist strictness he is always adding the other face of his

nature: irony. Wearing his dresses means not just have something

unique but also have fun with the volume, length and color

combination than everyone can play with.

And of course something that have to connect and close the two

collections: Mary Poppins’ inspired and Osvaldo’s imagination

created umbrella, must be seen in person to appreciate.

www.osvaldomontalbano.com


“Between

the Myth

and the

Beauty”by Simone Vera Bath

Collaboration by Kamila Domagala

Photography by Elisabetta Tassan Toffola

I was born in Berlin. Growing up in a divided city, broken in

two, so strongly characterized by the desire to heal the fractures

of history, has certainly influenced the way I create. The

perfection of imperfection, the transformation and playing are

the recurring elements in my jewelry.

My creations are on wood which I like to make it milder, combining

it with gold, or diamonds with bronze. Poor materials

together with precious materials in a continuous redefinition of

balances and combinations. The result is that my jewels seem

to have been created long time ago even if they are newborn.

The myth and antique stories are the true inspiration for my

creative mood. There is always formal and conceptual researches

which tie, weld and melt together materials, words, lights

and emotions.

In the act of creation there is not minimalism stressed by the

perfect shapes, on the contrary, there is knowledge that the imperfect

things are the most complete, irregular, unique, never

the same, never serial.

The ‘Fedone’, a part of the Collection, made to be a sort of

modern talisman. The materials are silver, bronze and gold.

There are incision, mounting or combination of different sizes

and cuts of diamonds, rubies, sapphire, opals or semi precious

stones. Sometimes they are made with wood joint using ebony,

briar-root and paduk in different shapes. They can be wear

separately or combine together, also great as unique gift for

precious person.

There is also a collection of wedding rings made on request

and realized in silver, bronze and gold to reflect the personality

of who’s wearing them.

Rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings are made to carry

people to another worlds and make them protagonist of it. It’s

up to you which one do you want to jump in.

www.simoneverabath.com


events

&affairs

Ralph Lauren

in Paris

Celebrity guests including Princess Charlene of Monaco, Catherine Deneuve, Cherie‎

Chung and Alexandra Shulman came together to celebrate Ralph Lauren’s pledge to

restore the elite Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Paris, one of the world’s oldest, most influential,

and beautiful art schools.

To mark the patron sponsorship, the fashion brand hosted a special presentation of the

Ralph Lauren Fall 2013 Collection, the first time the designer has showcased outside of

the US. The evening also featured an exclusive gala dinner in the picturesque courtyard

within L’Ecole des Beaux-Arts.

Models

Photography by Julien Hekimian

Emmanuelle Alt, Xavier Romatet and Virginie Mouzat

Lauren Bush Lauren, David Lauren, Ricky Lauren, Lambert Wilson, Dylan Lauren, Andrew Lauren and Alice Taglioni

Princess Charlene of Monaco Cherie Chung US Ambassador to France Charles H.

Rivkin (R) and his wife Susan Tolson


Olivier Royant and his wife Delphine

Ralph Lauren Corporation pledges its commitment to help

restore the elite Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Paris, one of the

worlds oldest and most influential, and most beautiful art

schools. Founded in 1648, the school has been a breeding

ground for exceptional artistic talent ever since, with illustrious

alumni including Renoir, Degas, Monet and Matisse.

Ralph Lauren will dedicate funding for a two-year project

that will oversee the restoration and modernization of the

listed building, as part of a broader Beaux-Arts preservation

campaign.

In keeping with bringing the institution’s teaching capabilities

into the 21st century, while also preserving the

classical Beaux-Arts style for future generations, Ralph

Lauren will be restoring the Amphitheatre d’honneur, the

semi-circular lecture theatre at the heart of the school.

The theatre will be fully updated to include state-of-theart

audio-visual equipment and improve stadium seating.

Money will also be used to modernize the school’s website

with a series of digital content providing global audiences

with access to a multitude of conferences, workshops,

symposiums and new online classes, placing the institution

at the forefront of the contemporary art world.

The corporation has a rich connection with French heritage

and a long standing commitment to philanthropy

with a love of Paris. To celebrate the patron sponsorship,

the brand hosted an exclusive gala dinner in the picturesque

courtyard surrounding the L’Ecole des Beaux-Arts.

The event featured a special presentation of the Ralph

Lauren Fall 2013 Collection, the first time the designer

has showcased his line outside of the US.



Photography by Vincenzo Lombardo & Jacopo Raule

events

&affairs

by Tatiana Zherebkina

Photography by Benjamin Lozovsky

SERGIO ROSSI COLLECTION

Sergio Rossi's Spring-Summer 2014 Collection

represents the culmination of a creative

approach, starting with the Cruise Collection,

explores the design and decorative arts of the

early seventies and interprets them in a contemporary

way.

Angelo Ruggen, Collections and Design Director,

applied to the eclecticism of those years

the signature style of the brand based on refinement,

artisan tradition, and a keen eye

for detail, creating a multifaceted collection in

which pure shapes are accentuated through

the choice and combination of different materials

and colors.

A symbol of this exercise in style is the season's

new pyramid-shaped stiletto that blends

curved lines and striking geometric shapes,

cleverly using contrasts to create balance and

harmony.

Also evoking nature are the animal prints renewed

in an optical illusion created by luxurious

soutage embellishments or the abstract version

of a camo patchwork in pony skin leather inspired

by a famous creation of Gio Ponti and

made with a skillful intarsia technique.

The kaleidoscope is the idea behind the vibrant

color combinations similar to those in

the works of Russian painter Sergei Poliakoff or

the playful blends of patterns that pay tribute

to the world of interior designer David Hicks

and are reproduced on a more natural "Vienna

straw'' woven material.

The same light is reflected and rearranged

into original geometric shapes in 3D jacquard

macro-print suede sandals or it shines in the

tiny jewel embellishments used for dressy evening

shoes that cover the foot with dazzling

sparkles.

The collection has two universal themes inspired

by the versatile aesthetic of those years:

the organic world with its rich variety of elements

and the kaleidoscope as a filter that creates

amazing shapes and reflections.

Natural elements are bamboo, which is used

for sculptural sandals with contrasting metallic

details, and giraffe or zebra-print gladiatorstyle

sandal boots made of stingray leather.

The sandal with fougere 'climbing vines' made

of shaded rhinestone pave that surround the

ankle and are suspended without any support

is a conceptual synthesis of the two inspiring

themes and the maximum expression of the

brand's artisan skill and expertise.

Sergio Rossi's Spring-Summer 2014 Collection

exclusive event was held in the striking setting

at the historical Milanese mansion where,

thanks to the Vintage decor from the period

and live performance, recreated a vibrant atmosphere

of the international jet-set lifestyle.


events

&affairs

World

PeaceDay

Staff, students and Hodges University honored World Peace Day with a special ceremony

on the school’s Fort Myers campus. The ceremony will began at 12:30 pm on

Friday, September 20. The event was supported by the Hodges English as a Second

Language (ESL) department, the office of Student Development and the Office of Diversity

and Inclusion.

The founder convinced the United Nations to declare September 21st as an official day

of peace and it is on this day that the global events take place. The Peace One Day

event is an international event, with well over 450,000 participates and growing. To find

out more details, please visit www.peaconeday.org.

Lee Smith and the Veterans Services also joined the celebration by committing to creating

a rock garden at the base of the Peace Pole in honor of veterans who have served

in the name of peace and freedom. Mitra Shaffy a local artist, created a painting to

symbolize the spirit of peace.

During the ceremony, a Peace Pole constructed by the Naples Gulf Shore Rotary was

planted on campus. The 7-foot tall wooden pole is a hand-crafted monument that

displays the message “Let there be peace on Earth, Let it begin with me” on each of its

six sides in different languages. To date there are 200,000 Peace Poles in 180 countries

worldwide, have been translated into 300 different languages and are dedicated

as monuments to peace.

“When you plant a Peace Pole in your community, you are linking with people all over

the world who have planted Peace Poles in the same spirit of peace,” said Hodges Professor

Renée Newell. “The Peace Pole is an internationally-recognized symbol of the

hopes and dreams of the entire human family, standing vigil in silent prayer for peace

on earth. People of all faiths and nationalities worldwide are striving for a better world,

and by planting this Peace Pole on our campus, we are leaving a fingerprint behind for

peace.”

The Peace Pole Project was founded in 1975 in Japan by Masahisa Goi, founder of The

World Peace Prayer Society. The official Peace Pole Project is located at The World

Peace Sanctuary in Wassaic, New York, which is the International Headquarters of The

World Peace Prayer Society.

www.hodges.edu


events & affairs


RENOWNED AREA LEADERS IN NAPLES

Vistage Group 2046, an executive leadership program, recently

hosted internationally recognized motivational speaker Jay

Rifenbary, at their invitation-only “Vistage Values Forum” in

Naples on Wednesday, September 18th. Approximately 80

people attended, gaining powerful insights that can be applied

in the workplace and personally.

President of Rifenbary Training & Development, Rifenbary

graduated from West Point and has since led a diverse career,

providing valuable perspectives that he readily shared with attendees.

His presentation included recommendations for incorporating

core values into businesses large and small, getting

back to the basics of human, professional interaction. Also,

as the best-selling author of No Excuse! – Incorporating Core

Values, Accountability and Balance into Your Life and Career,

he incorporated tips differentiating excuses from reasons and

how to effectively integrate work life with personal life while

protecting one’s self and core values.

Helena Dabrowski of Sunshine Ace Hardware and Carol Papesh

of Conditioned Air.

Scott Robertson, a 17-year Vistage group 2046 member, of

The Villages Insurance Partners, LLC participates in the Vistage

Values Forum presentation.

Dr. Kamela Patton, Superintendent of Schools for Collier County

and Tom Donahue of Hilton Naples.

Following Rifenbary’s presentation, a panel of Vistage Group

2046 members spoke on their experiences with the group.

Panelists included Michael Wynn of Sunshine ACE Hardware,

Samira Beckwith of Hope Healthcare Services and Russell

Budd of PBS Construction and were led by Vistage 2046 chair,

Barbara Monti.

By Samantha Scott

ABOUT VISTAGE

Vistage, a CEO membership organization was founded in 1957. Its

mission is to increase the effectiveness and enhance the lives of

members. Vistage has 15,000 members in 16 countries who meet

in small groups of up to 18 non-competing companies. A Chair

leads each group; Barbara Monti leads Vistage 2046, which she

launched in Southwest Florida in 1996. Members help one another

to become better leaders, make better decisions, and achieve better

results. Vistage membership is by invitation only. For more

information, contact Barbara Monti at (239) 949-4400.

International best-selling author and speaker, Jay Rifenbary

presenting at the Vistage 2046 Values Forum.

Panel members speak during part of the presentation, (from

left to right) Michael Wynn of Sunshine Ace Hardware, Samira

Beckwith of Hope HealthCare Services and Russell Budd of PBS

Construction, Inc. - all members of Vistage group 2046.

Rey Pezeshkan of PK Studios, Inc. and a Vistage group 2046

member with Brenda Iliff of Hazelden listen to the presentation

at the Vistage Values Forum.

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

events

&affairs

By Ann Gordon

The Riddim Runway Festival held it’s annual reggae concert and fashion

extravaganza showcasing Caribbean music and fashion. For the first

time in the festival’s history, the 6th Annual Riddim Runway Festival

taken place on the campus of Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) As

this was a FREE event, attendees were asked for a donation of canned

goods to help stock FGCU’s food pantry.

Last year, Riddim Runway went carnival style and produced the first

Caribbean Carnival in Southwest Florida adding the infamous parade

of costumes similar to those worn across the Caribbean islands during

their own carnival celebrations. Carnival parades in the islands celebrate

freedom with colorful costumes, lots of music and people dancing

in the streets to the tunes. Riddim Runway is excited to announce that

this year’s festival will continue with this theme showcasing Jewelz of

the Islands dazzling costumes.

Riddim Runway has historically taken place in downtown Fort Myers.

While the support from the City of Fort Myers and neighboring downtown

businesses has always been outstanding, the organizers of the

festival made the tough decision to move the festival to FGCU’s campus.

“We feel that by being on (FGCU) campus, we will reach a larger

part of our target audience. We are also excited to work with the Office

of Multicultural Student Affairs, Caribbean Student Association,

Programming Board and Office of Community Outreach for this year’s

festival,” explains Stacy Lee-Williams, founder of the Riddim Runway

Festival.

Festival attendees danced into the evening to some of the best live

artists in reggae and soca music. The headliner was world-renowned

reggae artist, Mr. Vegas who first gained international fame with his

album Heads High in 1998. Mr. Vegas has released several additional

hit-containing albums such as Pull Up in 2004 and Hot it Up in 2007. Mr

Vegas is in heavy rotation with his hot new singles Bruk It Down and

Party Tun Up and is also featured on Beyonce’s hot new to be released

single, Standing On The Sun. Other top reggae artists such as Ky-Enie,

Kehv and Keisha Martin kept the crowd rockin’ on FGCU’s campus. Designers

Jewel Shannon, Mystic Creationz and Cooyah will also be showcasing

the best of fashion.

Stacy Lee-Williams of King Leo Promotions did a fantastic job in putting

the event together. Many others are to be congratulated for orchestrating

an event in bringing music and fashion together.


Sponsors of this year’s event are King Leo Promotions, Florid Gulf Coast

University, All American Alarm, LaMotta’s Italian Restaurant, Sphinx

Hookah Lounge, Spazz LLC and Happy Life Media Group. Costume

sponsors Team Willis Boxing and Family Fitness, Treasure Chest, Trinflo

Posse, Twin Cutz, and Acoustic Affairs. Media Partners Lee Pitts Live, Fox

Fuse, Whats Up SWFL and WGCU. In kind sponsors, Indulgence Salon,

Favors Couture, Holiday Inn, LaBraJay Beauty Services and MochaMintality.

The Riddim Runway Festival relies solely on sponsorship from

community partners. These partners join the festival at various levels

of sponsorship covering all areas required to ensure an amazing event.

www.riddimrunway.com


WELLNESS 5K

RUN/WALK

RAISES $9,000

for SalusCare

and NAMI

By Susan Bennett

Nearly 200 runners and walkers participated in the Third

Annual Path to Wellness 5K Run/Walk October 5, raising

$9,000 to help residents with mental health disorders in

Southwest Florida..

The event benefited the Lee County Chapter of NAMI (National

Alliance on Mental Illness) and SalusCare, the new

not-for-profit formed by the merger of Lee Mental Health

and Southwest Florida Addiction Services (SWFAS).

The race was won by John Halas, 35, of Fort Myers, who

ran the 3.1-mile course at Lakes Park in 18 minutes, 42

seconds. The top female finisher was Jennifer Fagan, 38,

of Estero with a time of 22 minutes, 52 seconds. The top

three finishers were awarded trophies or medals in nine

age groups, for both men and women.

Baseball players of the Gulf Coast League Red Sox, the

Rookie Level minor league affiliate team of the Boston Red

Sox, also participated in the walk/run with Jose Vinicio, 20,

of Fort Myers setting a new record for males 20 to 24 years

old at 23 minutes, 10 seconds.

Roland Kraemer, 61, of Suhl, also set a new record for

males ages 60 to 64, with a time of 21 minutes, 25 seconds.

Race results and timing were provided by 3D Racing,

Inc., of Cape Coral. Complete race results are available

at

Jennifer Fagan of Estero accepts the award from SalusCare CEO Kevin B. Lewis as the top female finisher in the Third Annual Path

to Wellness 5K Run/Walk.

www.3dracing.com.

Major sponsors of the Path to Wellness were the Fort Myers

Police Department and Park Royal Hospital with support

from Genoa Healthcare, Lee Memorial Health System and

Susan Bennett Marketing & Media.

NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization

dedicated to improving the lives of persons living

with serious mental illness and their families. Founded in

1979, NAMI has become the nation’s voice on mental illness,

a national organization including NAMI organizations

in every state and in over 1100 local communities across

the country who join together to meet the NAMI mission Members of the Gulf Coast League Red Sox, the Rookie Level

through advocacy, research, support, and education. For minor league affiliate team of the Boston Red Sox, participate in

more information, visit www.namilee.org

the Third Annual Path to Wellness 5K Run/Walk;

SalusCare was formed July 1 with the merger of Lee Mental

Health and Southwest Florida Addiction Services into

one new non-profit organization. SalusCare offers outpatient

and residential treatment for individuals with mental

illness and substance use disorders from seven locations

in Lee County and one in Hendry County. The multi-faceted

agency also offers detoxification services for adults,

prevention programming and an Employee Assistance

Program for about 60 area companies. The majority of

programs are accredited by CARF, the Commission on Accreditation

of Rehabilitation Facilities. SalusCare is a United

Way agency. For more information, call 239-332-6937 or

Rachel Lee of 3D Racing, Inc., in Cape Coral prepares to start

visit www.SalusCareFlorida.org.

the race.


SalusCare Board Members Mark Atkins of Cape Coral and Ed

Kleinow of Sanibel participated in the Third Annual Path to Wellness

5K Run/Walk.

SalusCare CEO Kevin B. Lewis and psychiatrist Dr. Omar Rieche

enjoy the morning at Lakes Park.


Family Features

Holiday entertaining is all about food, wine and quality time with family and

friends. This year, try a new approach to holiday get-togethers by hosting an

hors d’oeuvres party.

Skip the hassle of preparing a full meal by serving a number of small bites,

dips and spreads for your guests to enjoy. Most hors d’oeuvres can be prepared

ahead of time so you can spend more time with your guests instead of

in the kitchen, making it easy to entertain flawlessly.

The best part is you don’t have to break the bank to host a fabulous holiday

gathering. By switching from national name brands to a grocer like ALDI,

party essentials and seasonal must-haves, such as holiday gifts and baking

necessities, can be as much as 50 percent less. Manufactured by many of the

nation’s leading food producers, these exclusive brand items often meet or

exceed the quality and taste of the national name brands.


Try these hors d’oeuvre serving tips from food stylist

and loyal ALDI shopper Janice Stahl:

• Rethink the regular: Surprise guests and get creative

with classic recipes by changing the presentation.

Square pizza bites, circular tea sandwiches or

star-shaped fruit make entertaining fun.

• Keep hors d’oeuvres simple: Serve foods that are

bite-sized and easy to pick up. Try skewers to create

festive kabobs, which are perfect for nibbling.


• Presentation is everything: Experiment with serving

pieces like vases, champagne glasses or appetizer

cups that add special interest to bite-sized snacks

from chips and dip to shrimp cocktail.

With these simple tips and recipes, you’ll be ready

to throw a festive holiday hors d’oeuvres party that’s

easy and affordable. Visit www.aldi.us for more entertaining

ideas.

Cranberry Shrimp Ceviche Cups

$0.58 per serving at ALDI

Recipe courtesy of Chef Alyssa, ALDI Test Kitchen

Prep time: 20 minutes, plus 1 hour to chill

Cook time: 3 minutes

Yields: 16 ceviche cups

1 1/2 teaspoons iodized salt, divided

16 ounces medium raw shrimp, thawed

1 cup dried cranberries

1/2 red onion, roughly chopped

1/2 cup fresh parsley

1/2 jalapeno, roughly chopped

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

1/4 cup fresh lime juice

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper or ground black pepper

1 teaspoon oregano

16 ounces tortilla chips

2 limes cut into wedges

Fresh cranberries, optional

Bring medium pot of water to a boil. Season with 1 teaspoon salt. Add shrimp and cook for 3

minutes. Immediately plunge cooked shrimp into ice water bath. Peel shrimp and place in flat

dish.

In food processor, combine cranberries, red onion, parsley and jalapeno. Pulse until finely

chopped.

Add cranberry mixture to shrimp. Add lemon juice, lime juice, remaining salt, crushed red pepper

and oregano. Stir to combine ingredients thoroughly. Refrigerate for 1 hour.

To assemble, spoon ceviche, about 4 to 5 shrimp each, into small clear cups or glasses. Garnish

with tortilla chips and lime wedges.


Make

Holiday

Meals Better

The only thing harder than passing up a delicious dish at a party is trying to talk yourself out of eating holiday leftovers the next day. While

everyone is entitled to a little indulgence now and then, it’s possible to have your traditional turkey and cranberry sandwich and eat better

too.

The trick is to cut calories whenever you can, and that means making simple swaps. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• The day after a festive meal, stack your sandwich high with leftover turkey, lettuce and cranberry sauce. But don’t blow it by adding a big

smear of mayonnaise. Instead, top this traditional sandwich with delicious, smooth Sabra® Hummus to save fat and calories.

• If you want to cut a lot of extra carbs out of your holiday diet, skip the stuffing. Instead, try wild or brown rice with your turkey.

• Once you’ve filled your plate with crudité instead of a high-calorie appetizer, don’t dip carrots and celery sticks in a vat of ranch dressing. Try

a dip made from Greek yogurt, like Sabra Cucumber & Dill Greek Yogurt Vegetable Dip.

• Cut the fat and calories in mashed potatoes by making a dairy free option with creamy hummus instead of butter or milk.

• It’s easy to drink a lot of extra calories during the holidays. Fancy coffee drinks, eggnogs and sugary cocktails can really pack on the

pounds. Stick with seltzer-based drinks, sugar-free hot chocolate or herbal teas.

• On very special occasions, enjoy a bite or two of a truly decadent dessert. Then, switch to fruit-based sweets or treat yourself to a sugarfree

beverage.

You may even find yourself a little lighter and healthier after the holidays. For more great snack and recipe ideas, visit www.sabra.com.

Family Features

Holiday Turkey Sandwich with Hummus and Cranberry

Recipe provided by www.smithbites.com

Prep time: 10 minutes

Total time: 10 minutes

2 slices sourdough or hearty country bread

1/4 cup Sabra hummus

2 leaves bibb or Boston lettuce

2 thin slices purple onion

2-3 slices leftover turkey, sliced about 1/4-inch thick

1/4 cup cranberry sauce

Salt and pepper to taste

Spread both pieces of bread with hummus, then layer lettuce, purple

onion, turkey, cranberry sauce and another layer of lettuce, salt and

pepper; add top piece of bread, hummus side down.

Hummus Mashed Potatoes

Prep time: 15 minutes

Total time: 45 minutes

Yield: 6 servings

6 yellow potatoes, or about 5 cups peeled and cubed

1 1/3 cup Sabra hummus

2 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and fresh pepper to taste

2 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 lemon, cut into 6 wedges

Peel potatoes and place in bowl of water to cover to prevent discoloration.

Cut potatoes into 1 1/2-inch cubes and place in medium sized pot with

enough water to cover and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Bring to boil and simmer over medium heat for about 30 minutes, or until

fork goes gently through potatoes.

Once cooked, drain potatoes and place back into pot over medium heat

for about 3 minutes, until moisture comes out of potatoes and they appear

dry.

Remove from heat. In same pot, start mashing potatoes with masher.

Add 1 1/3 cup hummus, oil, salt and pepper to taste. Top with sprinkling

of fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedge to squeeze over top.


Limited Whisky in U.S.

The Balvenie, the most handcrafted single malt Scotch whisky, is proud to introduce its latest

expression: Tun 1401, Batch 9. This release has been exclusively created for the U.S. market,

and follows the hugely successful ‘Batch 3’ and ‘Batch 6’, which were the only other Tun 1401

expressions released in the United States in 2011 and 2012 respectively.

Available in limited supply beginning this October, this rare batch includes exceptional and

precious liquid from a number of casks specially selected by the industry’s longest-serving Malt

Master, David Stewart. David’s first batch of Tun 1401 was released in 2010, for sale only at The

Balvenie’s Speyside Distillery.

Inspired by and produced in one of the oldest warehouses at The Balvenie Distillery, The Balvenie

Tun 1401, Batch 9 is a skillful marriage of some of the rarest treasures from the distillery’s

Warehouse 24. This latest batch of Tun 1401 represents an unrepeatable selection of spirits

sourced from eleven traditional whisky casks and three sherry butts, whose ages span a number

of decades, and which have all been hand-selected by Stewart. The whisky rested for several

months in Tun 1401 – one of the distillery’s unique marrying vessels – to create a single malt

that is greater than its already precious parts.

“We’ve identified what we believe to be an unprecedented range of liquids to comprise this

Tun 1401 batch from the vast library of very rare whisky currently maturing at The Balvenie

Distillery,” said David Stewart, Malt Master for The Balvenie. “The end result is a complex and

completely unique marriage characterized by dark fruits and marmalade on the nose. Its richness

and smoothness is underpinned with dark chocolate sweetness, delicate honey notes and a

distinctly long, spicy finish.”

The exceptional quality of The Balvenie is attributed to the unique craftsmanship retained by

The Balvenie Distillery. Nowhere else will you find a distillery that still grows its own barley, malts

in its own traditional floor maltings, employs a team of coopers to tend its casks, a coppersmith

to maintain its stills and has in its service the most experienced Malt Master in Scotland.

Hand-bottled at The Balvenie Distillery in Speyside, The Balvenie Tun 1401, Batch 9 is a limited

release with an RRP of $250. The Balvenie Tun 1401, Batch 9 has an ABV of 49.3%.

www.thebalvenie.com

Warm

Up To

Cocktails!

With the change of seasons in full force,

our cocktail taste buds are following suit:

summer months made us crave fruity

flavors, and the cooler autumn nights are

leaving us yearning for strong spices and

warm flavor notes. And what better way

to quell this craving than with fall-tastic

libations made with the brand new Grand

Marnier Raspberry Peach (SRP: $39.99) – a

limited edition liqueur that perfectly marries

Grand Marnier’s signature fine cognacs

laced with orange essence and natural

raspberry and peach flavors.

To kick off sweater weather, mix up the GM

Raspberry Peach and Ginger Ale, which is

simply made with GM Raspberry Peach,

your favorite ginger ale and a dash of plum

bitters – a tipple that’s a little bit sweet and

a little bit tart, but completely fall. Then

shake up GM Raspberry Peach with Manzanilla

sherry, cinnamon syrup and a vanilla

bean to create the GM Raspberry Peach

Cobbler – the perfect cocktail to sip while

cozying up by the fire.

GM Raspberry Peach and Ginger Ale

**Created by mixologist George Carney

2 oz Grand Marnier Raspberry Peach

Ginger Ale

Plum bitters

Add the Grand Marnier Raspberry Peach to a glass

of ginger ale. Top with two dashes of plum bitters.

GM Raspberry Peach Cobbler

**Created by mixologist George Carney

1 ½ oz Grand Marnier Raspberry Peach

1 ½ oz Manzanilla Sherry

1/2 oz Poor Man’s Kitchen Cinnamon Syrup (or

other cinnamon syrup)

1 vanilla bean

10 fresh raspberries

Combine all ingredients in a shaker and shake.

Pour contents into a Collins glass.


Quick

and Nutritious Breakfast


It’s easier than ever to provide great-tasting, nutritious, affordable and

ready-to-eat breakfast options for you and your family. Try these convenient

tips to make sure you have a nutritious breakfast before everyone

rushes out the door.

“Cereal is a convenient way for busy families to start the morning,” said

Lisa Sanders, Ph.D., registered dietitian and director of Global Nutrition

and Scientific Affairs at Kellogg. “In fact, nine out of ten moms agree that

cereal is a convenient breakfast choice. In addition, research shows sharing

three or more family meals per week can help children have healthier

eating habits.”

Here are simple ways to fit a cereal breakfast into your day:

Fill the pantry with quick options

For the many busy families who feel they don’t have time for breakfast,

choose a convenient breakfast option. Try stocking up on fresh fruit and

ready-to-eat cereals, for example, such as those from Kellogg’s, which

come in several varieties. Almost everyone can make a bowl of cereal.

It’s a great way to get kids involved during family breakfasts. For families

with milk allergies or those who prefer non-dairy options, give cereal an

extra boost of nutritious flavor by pairing it with almond or soy milk and

fresh fruit.

Prepare the night before

Before you turn the lights off for bed, be ready for the next day with

a virtual buffet of ready-to-eat breakfast options. Set out your cereal

boxes, prepare hard-boiled eggs or slice fruit for a nutritious meal. With

preparation, you can eat quickly and get the nutrients you need to start

your day.


www.kelloggs.com

Family Features

Choose wholesome, nutrient-packed foods

In a world of fast food and large portion sizes, not all breakfasts are created

equal. When grocery shopping, make sure the breakfast items you

place in the cart are nutritious ones. The average calorie count for bacon,

eggs and toast breakfast is 309 calories, while a breakfast of skim milk

and cereal is about 150 calories. And, for 150 calories, cereal and skim

milk can provide a powerhouse of nutrients that you may not be getting

enough of, including fiber, calcium, vitamin D and potassium. Studies also

show that children and adults who eat cereal regularly tend to have lower

BMIs than those who do not.

Create new options:

Choosing a cereal and milk breakfast is one of the easiest ways to get

nutrients to help start to the day. For variety, try some of the simple suggestions

below. Mix and match to fit your family’s tastes.

Whole grain, higher fiber cereal + yogurt + mixed berries = breakfast

parfait

Whole grain, higher fiber cereal + Ricotta cheese + nuts, raisins & cinnamon

= mid-morning protein snack

“Starting your day with a cereal breakfast is one of the smartest things

you can do,” said Sanders, the author of numerous studies examining the

nutritive benefits of cereal and fiber. “People who regularly eat cereal for

breakfast also tend to have higher nutrient intakes and weigh less than

those who skip breakfast or choose other breakfast options.”

Sanders recommends fiber and whole grains as a good foundation upon

which to build your bowl, adding low fat milk or yogurt which deliver

protein, vitamin D, calcium and other nutrients. Add fruit to make a

bowl even more delicious and nutritious. For more ways to build a better

breakfast, visit http://www.kelloggs.com/en_US/choose-my-bowl.html.

Thwart That Throat Tickle

As the weather cools, germs multiply at work and the kids reluctantly head

back to school, your house is bound to become host to a cold or flu. While pills

and cough syrups are good and dandy, nothing comforts quite as much as a

thoughtful home remedy.

This fall season, Golden Blossom Honey has the perfect serum that will appease

even the grouchiest patients. This lemony treatment is effective at soothing

mild sore throats and is easy to create even through a foggy head cold. Golden

Blossom Honey, the fourth generation iconic honey brand, uses 100% US honey

to create a blend composed of extra-white clover, sage buckwheat and orange

blossom. The result: a distinct flavor, color and fragrance possessed by no other

honey brand that is soothing and familiar.

www.goldenblossomhoney.com

Ginger & Honey Citrus Sore Throat Home Treatment

Ingredients

4 tablespoons GOLDEN BLOSSOM HONEY

Juice of 1 large lemon

3 teaspoons vegetable oil

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Directions

Mix all ingredients together in a small jar. Every hour, take 1 teaspoon

in your mouth and gargle. Then swallow the remedy.

Safety

Honey and Sage Cold Syrup

Relieve a sore throat and other cold symptoms

with this home treatment infused with sage.

Ingredients

1 teaspoon chopped fresh sage

1/3 cup, plus 1 tablespoon GOLDEN BLOSSOM

HONEY

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

Directions

Steep sage in a cup filled with boiling water for

10 minutes. Strain out sage and allow the mixture

to cool. Place honey in a jar and add vinegar

and sage water. Shake well. Take 2 teaspoons

every hour.

never felt so good

if you could save 28%

on car insurance …

why wouldn’t you?

*

Safe Step Tubs have

received the Ease-of-Use

Commendation from the

Arthritis Foundation

LIFETIME

LIMITED WARRANTY

MADE IN THE U.S.A.

WITH PRIDE

Financing available

with approved credit

See how much you could save

at 1-888-719-4125.

A Safe Step Walk-In Tub offers independence to those seeking a safe and easy way to

bathe right in the convenience and comfort of their own home.

✓ Made in America, with more standard features than any

other tub

✓ Dual hydro-massage therapy system- 10 water and 16 air

bubble jets, offering life-changing benefi ts

✓ Built-in support bar and the industry’s leading low step-in

✓ The highest quality tub complete with a lifetime warranty

✓ Top-of-the-line installation and service included

You won’t fi nd a better walk-in tub, with all these features and

more, included with a lifetime warranty at a low affordable

price. Call now!

$750 OFF

when you mention this ad

for a limited time only

Call Toll-Free 1-888-414-5707

*National average annual savings based on data from customers who reported savings by switching to Esurance between 12/1/11 and 4/30/12.

© 2012 Esurance Insurance Services, Inc. All rights reserved. CA License #0G87829

For your FREE information kit and DVD, and our Senior Discounts,

Call Today Toll-Free 1-888-414-5707


Reduce Food Waste

Family Features

Food waste is a major global issue that affects the environment, economy

and food security. According to a 2012 report by the National Resources

Defense Council, American families throw out 25 percent of the food they

buy. That’s roughly the equivalent of $1,500 wasted each year.

Chef Alex Guarnaschelli, who participated in Food Network’s “The Big

Waste” special and serves as a judge on “Chopped,” is encouraging food

enthusiasts to love food more and waste it less, one day at a time.

“One of the most important steps we can take in an effort to reduce food

waste is prepping ingredients properly right from the start,” Guarnaschelli

says. “Just take time on Sunday, the day when most people grocery shop

and prep for the week ahead, to wrap and protect foods to help keep food

fresh all week. This, combined with other steps like planning ahead and

using leftovers can go a long way in trimming food waste.”

According to Glad Food Protection’s recent Fridge to Fork report, twothirds

of Americans throw away food weekly or more frequently. Follow

these few easy preparation and protection tips to help save time, money

and the environment:

• Look beyond looks: Nothing’s perfect – fresh fruits and vegetables

included. Often, anything with bruises, bumps or oddities gets picked over.

But a misshaped tomato could end up being the firmest and tastiest of the

bunch. Don’t be afraid to buy something imperfect, you may be surprised.

• Prep and protect: Food spoils in homes due to improper or suboptimal

storage, poor visibility in refrigerators, partially used ingredients and misjudged

food needs, according to the National Resources Defense Council

report. Taking easy steps to prep and protect food before storing helps

keep food fresher longer. For example, keep kale crisp by wrapping in a

paper towel, storing in an airtight Glad Zipper bag and placing in the coldest

part of the fridge.

• Leftover do overs: Don’t scrap today’s leftovers or excess ingredients;

use them for tomorrow’s meals. Extra baked or rotisserie chicken? Debone

and shred what’s left, and store it in an airtight container to later make

chicken enchiladas the whole family will enjoy. Leftover cooked veggies?

Use them as the base for a slow cooker meal.

• Play musical shelves: When you purchase new food, shuffle the older

items to the front, putting the newer items towards the back. You’ll be

prompted to use these items first, before they go bad.

• Lead with the list: Plan meals ahead for a trip to the store. A detailed

list will help curtail impulse purchases and over-buying. Be realistic about

what you’re going to prepare, accounting for days you’ll eat leftovers or

go out.

You can find more food preparation and protection tips on SaveitSunday.

com, where you can take the #SaveItSunday pledge and check out other

ideas to help trim food waste at home. By pledging, you’ll be entered for

the chance to win a meal for you and your friends cooked in your home by

a personal chef.

.net




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!

Don't

Skip


the

Family Features

According to recent research, 95 percent of Americans admit it is important

to wash their hands after using a public restroom. This is particularly true

with women compared to men.

Suds

Stay healthy all year long

To keep you and your family healthy, Bradley recommends five simple steps

to effective hand washing:

What’s even more interesting is that a growing number of consumers admit

to simply rinsing their hands with water without using soap in public washrooms.

In fact, this number has increased from 54 percent to 70 percent

on the national level over the past two years. And just how long are they

“washing” their hands? Suds or no suds, a majority of Americans do not

wash their hands long enough. According to the Centers for Disease Control

and Prevention, the recommended time to wash one’s hands with soap and

water in order to kill bacteria is at least 20 seconds.

These findings are part of the fifth annual Healthy Hand Washing Survey

conducted by Bradley Corporation, a Milwaukee-based manufacturer of

commercial plumbing fixtures and washroom accessories. Bradley is dedicated

to innovating products that create more efficient washroom environments

and promote healthy hand washing.

Positive responses to media

The survey also revealed that increased media coverage or stories about

food-borne or airborne illnesses have an impact on hand washing habits.

More than half of consumers, 57 percent, claimed they wash their hands

more often and more thoroughly in response to news coverage. Sixty-six

percent also reported washing their hands more frequently in response to

news about seasonal flu outbreaks.

“These findings underscore the need for consumers to be mindful of good

hand hygiene,” said Jon Dommisse, director of global marketing and strategic

development for Bradley. “Everyone can play their part in preventing

the spread of viruses such as influenza during the winter months. Always

remember, it takes less than a minute to effectively wash your hands.”

1. Wash More Frequently – It’s important to wash your hands not only after

using the washroom, but, before and after preparing and eating food;

before and after treating a wound; after blowing your nose, coughing or

sneezing; and after touching the garbage.

2. Count to 20 – Proper hand washing means scrubbing with water and

soap for at least 20 seconds or the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday”

twice. Be sure to scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and

under your nails.

3. Don’t Forget to Dry – Smart hand hygiene should not only include washing,

but thoroughly drying hands as well. The most hygienic and sustainable

method is using an energy-efficient dryer such as the one found on the allin-one

touchless Advocate Lavatory System.

4. Hand Sanitizers Aren’t Enough – While 29 percent of consumers surveyed

use a hand sanitizer, it may not be as effective when hands are visibly dirty.

Anti-bacterial gel is not a substitute for soap and water, and should only be

relied upon if hand washing facilities are not available.

5. Clean Hands Means Healthy Kids – Hand washing among school-age children

is especially important because nearly 2.2 million children under the

age of 5 die each year from diarrheal diseases and pneumonia, according

to a 2011 study from the International Journal of Environmental Research

and Public Health. Kids should be taught healthy routines like hand washing

at an early age.

For further information on hand hygiene find Bradley on Twitter @bradleycorp,

Facebook/BradleyCorporation or visit http://www.bradleycorp.com/

handwashing.


Having Fun as

We Age

Regular physical activity at any age can help you live longer, feel

better and reduce health problems. But far too many people,

including baby boomers, don’t get the exercise they need. According

to the 2012 Participation Report from the Physical Activity

Council (PAC), 35 percent of Americans over the age of 55 are

physically inactive. Since regular exercise helps control blood

pressure, body weight, cholesterol and so much more, boomers

need to find ways to get their bodies moving so they can live

longer, healthier lives.

“Though any amount of exercise is beneficial, ultimately adults

should work up to getting at least 30 minutes most days of the

week, as long as they feel comfortable and pain-free,” said worldrenowned

nutritionist Joy Bauer. “From taking a Zumba class to

walking and stretching, getting regular physical activity helps the

joints stay loose, maintains muscle mass, and gets the blood flowing

– all of which make everyday tasks easier.”

The American Council on Exercise recommends older Americans

choose exercise programs that include cardiovascular, muscle

conditioning, and flexibility exercises. Low-impact, non-jarring

exercises such as walking and swimming are good options. A key

to sticking with a fitness program is making sure it’s enjoyable.

A fun new program for older adults is Zumba Gold, a low-impact

dance-based workout designed specifically for boomers and

seniors. Workout routines combine salsa, merengue, flamenco

and cumbia moves with fun music. For those that would prefer to

work out in the comfort of their own home, there is also a Zumba

Gold “Live it Up” DVD collection that offers 3 discs with workouts,

as well as advice from experts in the fields of nutrition, brain

health, enhancing your well-being and more.

The program was created by 71-year-old Joy Prouty, a veteran in

the fitness industry and a former Rockette. “From cardio to toning,

this collection brings together some of Zumba’s most popular

offerings in a format enabling older adults to rediscover the

energy of their youth,” said Prouty. To learn more about Zumba

Gold, purchase the Zumba Gold “Live it Up” DVDs and find a class

near you

Workout Safety Tips

Whenever beginning a new fitness activity or program, make

sure you do it safely.

• Wear comfortable shoes that fit well.

• Stay hydrated with plenty of fluids.

• Listen to your body. If it hurts or it feels like too much, stop.

You also need to be aware of danger signs while exercising.

Stop the activity and call your doctor or 911 if you experience

pain or pressure in your chest, arms, neck or jaw; feel lightheaded,

nauseated or weak; become short of breath; develop

pain in your legs, calves or back; or feel like your heart is

beating too fast or skipping beats.

“It’s important to see your doctor before beginning any

workout routine to receive a thorough cardiovascular evaluation,”

said Bauer. “Once you’ve been cleared by your doctor, I

recommend starting out slowly.”

Pick an Activity that You Will Enjoy

The best way to find a regimen that will stick is to choose

something that you enjoy. You’ll be more likely to stick with it

and reap all the benefits the physical activity has to offer.

Bauer adds that a program like Zumba Gold is great because,

if you enjoy dancing, it won’t feel like exercise and it can also

be a social outlet: “Combining physical activity with social

time is a total win-win.”

Family Features

www.zumbagold.com


FOCusof ARTIST

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?