Focus of SWFL

JAN/FEB 2014 

FOCusof SWFL 

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Content 

Collier 

Sarasota 

Charlotte 

Lee 

80 

42 

88 

46 

20 New Year's Resolutions 

22 Embracing Your Setbacks 

27 Inside Out 

28 Drop the Self Pity 

33 Juggling Family 

35 Right College 

38 Love 

40 Romance 

56 Get Focused 

58 Your Will 

60 Take Charge in Investing 

61 Smartphone 

63 Car Shopping Made Easy 

66 Absolute Performance 

72 Final Enactment 

74 At It's Best 

77 GRANDE! 

78 New Futurist Superyacht 

85 Enchanting Obsession 

86 Endless Motion 

96 Aaron Short 

98 Life, Love & Music 

50 

68 

30 

FOCus 

Magazine 

www.focusofswfl.com 

Publisher: Focus Magazine of SWFL 

Cover Photography: Fadil Berisha 

Model: Joyce Giraud 

Dress: Sheri Hill 

Make up: Isabel Perez 

Hair: Paul Anthony 

Styling: Sheri Hill and Kara for Serendipity Prom 

Contributors: 

of SWFL 

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

Keri Glassman, MS, RD, Meagan Parrado, Chef Roberta, David Burne, Ian 

Howes, Vincent Gotti, Tania Mendillo, K. Buchanan, Susana Sueldo, Nick 

Whelan, Stephen Prendiville, M.D., Maria McCutchen, Brooke Hudis, Burt Kellerman, 

Moony Mann, Lina LaSalle, Dan Myricks, Gina L. Battle, Norah Edward, 

Thomas Concordia, Dimitrios Kambouris, Mai Yomioto, Thomas Topinka, Colleen 

Crawford, Zack Tanck, Deb Reynolds, Cylla von Tiedmann, Olatoun Kolawole, 

Cortney Yod, TJ Philpott, Sterling 

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 

10 FOCUS of SWFL 2014

Content 

Sarasota 

Charlotte 

Collier 

Lee 

102 Viva Italia! 

104 Serene Design 

106 Energy-Efficient Solutions 

108 Simple Tips 

112 Lift Sagging Skin 

113 Skin Resolutions 

114 Green Market 

115 Aging in Place 

117 Mind Over Body 

120 Fight Eye Disease 

122 Ultherapy 

125 Posture 

126 Receding Gums 

127 Lost the Art of Medicine? 

128 Wyvern Hotel 

129 Men of Distinction 

136 Redesigning Your Style 

154 Revitalization 

172 From Australia with Style 

174 Technology 

177 Your Piece of Art 

185 The Art of Brandon Gould 

186 Creating Great Events 

189 Pots Past Their Prime? 

190 Lucini 

194 Eat Hearty & Healthy 

200 Healthier Sweets 

201 Balanced Eating Routine 

202 Last Words 

132 

178 

118 

144 

110 

News & Info 

75 Mobile Rock Climbing 

124 Dr. Prendiville - New Injectable Filler 

130 Marilyn's Distinctive European Fashion 

175 Spicing Up Sarasota Dining 

175 Echo Vintage Books & Vinyl 

176 Wellington Ward Art Sow 

181 Anima Domus 15th Anniversary 

184 Child's Painting Auctioned at Wine Fest 

A r t i s t 

Gallery 

182 

162 


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

Simple Solutions 

for Your 

New Year’s 

Resolutions! 

By Sterling Mire 

As practicing spiritual life coach, I am often approached by clients who 

seek to fulfill important goals. Through my unique Art of Manifestation 

program, I am able to help them attain these goals when they create 

their wonderful New Year. Most of my clients want to make their New 

Year’s resolutions stick. But how do they do it? 

Right now, it's an exciting time to create New Year’s resolutions. Maybe 

yours include engaging going out friends, eating healthier, saving 

money, helping others or simply taking more time out for you! It may 

also be a confronting time when we think about past, unfulfilled resolutions. 

How do we keep these new resolutions from getting off track? 

I've created a simple Top 10 Tips list for keeping all of your New Year's 

resolutions right on target! 

1. Be sure that you can commit. 

Is your resolution something that you truly want or does it just simply 

look good on paper? Create resolutions that inspire you the most 

at this time. Don't overwhelm yourself with too many commitments. 

Once those resolutions have come into being, you can create more – 

even before the year is up. 

2. Keep your focus clear. 

Start your day with morning visualizations. See yourself with the 

desired results of your New Year's resolutions. This will keep you on 

track and connect you with the experience of doing it. 

3. Keep a daily diary. 

Implement your New Year's resolutions into your daily or weekly 

plans. Schedule your resolutions into your day and write about them 

at the end of the day. This keeps them present and alive for you – 

and will help keep you on target! 

4. Tell others. 

Share your stories of success and inspire others. Telling others what 

you are up to will keep you accountable, too. So, when someone 

asks you how your new workout routine is going, you can easily 

reply by saying, "Fantastic!" 

5. Be determined. 

Don’t let anything take you off track and don’t let anyone – including 

you – talk you into allowing old habits to creep back in. It's easy to 

return to what’s familiar to us, but while familiarity may be comfortable, 

it’s not fulfilling. Remember, it takes a little time for your New 

Year's resolutions to become the new familiar to you and what is 

satisfying, too! Also, if you get off track, simply admit to it and get 

back on the horse. It’s really that simple. 

6. Take bite-sized action. 

Take “bite-sized action.” Commit yourself to your New Year’s resolutions 

for just one month if you feel overwhelmed with big-picture 

commitments. After one month, determine whether you’d like to 

take on another month of engaging in your resolutions. Repeat 

this action. It takes about 21 days for change to occur, that is, for 

something to become more habitual and second nature. By the time 

a month is over, chances are, you’ve acclimated to your new lifestyle. 

Slipping back into old ways may prove harder than you think! 

Consistency is the key. If we can be consistent for a period of time, 

the rest is easy. 

20 FOCUS of SWFL 2014 

7. Use the buddy system. 

Your friend is another way to stay on the path! When someone else 

shares the same goals, it can keep us in check. Fulfilling on your 

goal is twice as sweet with someone else. There are lots of resolutions 

that could involve a buddy, such as: exercising, eating healthy, 

quitting bad habits and fun hobbies. Even if your New Year’s resolutions 

don’t involve others, you can still share your goals, which 

include that added support you need. 

8. Visual reminders. 

Put images of what you desire everywhere on the refrigerator, in the 

bathroom, on your desk, on your screensaver, in your wallet, in your 

car. Wherever you spend time, put a visual reminder of what you 

want to come to fruition. 

9. Reward yourself. 

At least once a week, do something extra special for yourself as a 

reward for keeping to your goals. Maybe it's an inexpensive massage, 

buying a beautiful piece of clothing, an adventurous horseback 

ride or maybe simply taking a scenic drive all on your own! 

10. Acknowledge yourself. 

Give yourself credit for taking on new habits and choosing to make 

lifestyle changes. That alone is the first step towards success. Remind 

yourself that you are worth it! Keep moving in the right direction 

and you will find yourself fulfilling on those "hard to keep" New 

Year's Resolutions in no time! 

Creating and fulfilling your New Year's resolutions doesn't have to 

be an intimidating process. It takes just some practice and a little 

effort. Applying these tips can make the difference between making 

your New Year’s resolutions stick or breaking them. Before your new 

year is up, these resolutions will seem like second nature and you 

will not only reap the benefits of your New Year's resolutions, but 

you will say "hello" to a new you and a brand new way of life! 

Sterling has gathered over 20 years of extraordinary experience in the fields of life coaching, psychology 

and astrology. She formally studied psychology in Dallas, and between 1998-2003, studied 

advanced personal development at the famed Landmark Education Center in Los Angeles. In 1998, 

she began her professional career as an astrologer, tarot card reader and life coach. Sterling then 

developed her unique Art of Manifestation © life coaching program for clients to create and 

experience outstanding lives. Today, she offers all of her services at Intuitive Life By Sterling, her 

spiritual life coaching practice in West Hollywood, California and through online, telephone and 

Skype appointments. Ultimately, Sterling provides caring and passionate guidance, leading clients 

to fulfill the amazing lives that they've always intended. 

www.intuitivelifebysterling.com

Embracing 

Your 

Setbacks 

Photo by Duard van der Westhuizen 

In order to achieve success it is almost always inevitable 

that mistakes will be made and setbacks encountered 

along the way! For those who may fear failure, get over it 

and realize these setbacks are as much a part of achieving 

success as the euphoric feelings you experience upon 

your accomplishments! There is much to be learned and 

benefits to be gained from your miscues that will actually 

help you to become successful provided you keep both 

your eyes and mind wide open! 

Here is a look at 3 benefits you can expect from mistakes 

made that hopefully demonstrate why you should NOT 

fear failure but rather embrace it! 

In the vast majority of cases in order to achieve success 

it is normal to first experience setbacks due to your own 

mistakes! Without prior experience it is unrealistic to expect 

your efforts will be flawless or go unchallenged! The 

best approach is not to fear failure but embrace it for 

what it can teach you and how it actually benefits you as 

discussed above in becoming successful at whatever you 

pursue! Achieving success should always be regarded as a 

journey that offers many lessons provided you pay attention 

to what is being taught! 

By TJ Philpott 

Uncover Obstacles 

The best way to find out what you're up against is to take action, 

get involved and quite frankly wait till you stub your toe! Planning is 

great and definitely needed but generally there will always be many 

'unknowns' that only come to light through trial and error! One cannot 

become successful at anything unless they are made aware of 

and address any obstacles in their path! Once a mistake is made or a 

setback is experienced you now have a deeper understanding of what 

you need to do to eventually achieve success! 

Uncover Challenges 

Many times we discover challenges we did not anticipate which could 

alter our passions and even our paths! Unlike the obstacles we spoke 

of above these challenges could prove to be insurmountable due to 

a lack of resources or even skills that we are unable to acquire! The 

sooner we are made aware of such things the better since it will help 

minimize the time and effort that may be invested on an unachievable 

goal! 

Build Confidence 

Let's face it, meeting an challenge head on and defeating it helps 

to really boost your confidence! We're talking 'world beating' confidence 

that propels you forward into the unknown where you may 

have formally backed away from cheating you from the education, 

experiences and further opportunities! For those who fear failure and 

therefore are less incline to take risks that could pay off in new skills 

and greater self confidence, it is unlikely they will become successful 

at many things! The biggest loss of all perhaps could simply be the 

'life experiences' involved in each new journey we take! 


Whimsical and Grandiloquent Art 

Characterized by a unique style and precise designs where the combination of a matte-shine 

effect on gold, and meticulous craftsmanship make for exceptional jewelry pieces where gold 

and precious stones come to life. 

This collection is inspired by the embroidery, fabrics, and colors of Spain’s Golden Age. This 

touch of color and these brocades can be seen in pieces crafted in yellow or white gold with 

amethyst presented as grandiloquent and whimsical art. 

Jewelry with generous volumes and rich decoration where the characteristic and signature 

Carrera y Carrera matte-gloss effect can be appreciated. Refined and ornate pieces reflect the 

image-preoccupied culture that existed during this period. 

For Carrera y Carrera, its link to Spain is essential as a source of inspiration for the development 

of its collections. The entire creative and development process of each jewelry piece 

takes place wholly in the Madrid workshop. Each step in the creation of a piece is influenced 

by the Spanish character that has become one of the fundamental pillars in the evolution of 

the company’s excellent trajectory throughout its history. 

Carrera y Carrera endures thanks to a standard of incalculable value – the savoir faire of the 

nearly 60 jewelers who work in its Madrid workshop, where tradition and the expertise of 

master goldsmiths are joined together. It is here that each jewelry piece is crafted entirely by 

hand, giving each one a flawless grandeur.

Inside out 

By Cortney Yod 

We are surrounded by propaganda associated with outer 

beauty, but are we forgetting about inner beauty? Above all, 

your inner beauty is very important and you should focus on 

it, focusing on beauty on the outside is just an added benefit. 

As time and age can take a toll on your outer beauty, they can 

never take away your inner beauty. What follows are some 

ideas on how to develop your own inner beauty so that you 

can feel attractive on the inside as well as the outside. 

We are surrounded by beauty, particularly if we are capable 

of distinguishing it. If you learn to delight in the natural world 

and its beauty, you can begin to appreciate your inner beauty. 

You may have your own way of doing this, whether it's appreciating 

art, nature or spending time with children. Technology 

is another form in which people discovery beauty. If you 

intentionally encapsulate your life with attractive components, 

you will be able to have a positive mental state which will allow 

your most wonderful qualities to shine. It's not hard to 

find gorgeous items that will make you feel happy, you can 

appreciate simple things, such as a blooming flower or a fabulous 

pair of shoes. 

It's important to think on the bright side otherwise you could 

obstruct your inner beauty. You will block your inner beauty 

if you allow imminent feelings, such as misery, annoyance or 

even hatred to take over your life, thus resulting in the limitation 

of your true potential. Above all, you have the ultimate 

control and you should learn to recognize the areas in your 

life that can be improved upon. A therapist can occasionally 

be the greatest assistance to you however in a lot of instances 

you can just talk about your issues with a close confidant. It 

doesn't take much for negative feelings to take over your life, 

but it is important to scrutinize these and not allow them to 

consume your life. Your inner beauty can shine through when 

you are contented with your life, but not so much when you 

permit your bad mood to engulf your life. 

We live in a world now that is "on the go" and if you get 

caught up in all the action you may lose track of your path to 

inner beauty. Within this world, regardless if you are an insider 

or the outsider, there is no way to elude opposition. Even with 

our extra time, we battle with others - whether it is for a sporting 

event or maybe with our pets, for example a dog or horse 

show. There's nothing wrong with this, and competition can 

help bring out the best in us, but if we do this in a spirit of fair 

play and good sportsmanship, it can make a big difference. 

Winning at something can feel like a drug-free high, however 

if you had to bamboozle people in order to make it that far, 

will you really feel like a winner in the end? Being gracious, 

honest and fair, even when competing, is an important part of 

inner beauty. 

When you develop your inner beauty, you become attractive in 

ways that go far beyond your outward appearance and people 

will enjoy being around you without necessarily knowing why. 

There are a number of ways to cultivate your inner beauty and 

we have only shared a few of those in this article. If you don't 

remember anything else, do remember that natural beauty 

comes from within and your outward appearance is simply an 

expression of this. 

FOCUS of SWFL 2014 27

Drop 

the 

Self 

Pity 

Photo by Radu Tania 

By Olatoun Kolawole 

Many live their life daily thinking of the reasons why they shouldn’t forgive, thinking about the mum or dad that left years 

ago and all sort of broken bonds/relationships…. It’s important to forgive and move forward don’t let your past or background 

deprive you of your future… Ask yourself: 

1. WHAT ARE YOU LIVING FOR? Many get through life setting goals and dreams that will only end in depression…. Know 

the difference between what you NEED and what you WANT….stop chasing what doesn’t matter, your happiness should be 

number one on your priority list. Your capabilities are very important when you are thinking about your dreams .Resolve to 

make an impact. Dedicate your life to a cause…When you give your life to something you immediately dedicate yourself to 

the passion. 

2. WHAT ARE YOU DOING RIGHT NOW? Don’t go through life watching the days go by; have a plan, face challenges, take 

risk. The difference between extraordinarily wealthy people and those struggling is a matter of knowledge. Find out from 

the informed all the avenues through which you can make wealth. Don’t ever attach your happiness to a particular goal or 

achievement, love yourself, pamper yourself ,eat healthy and rest well .Happiness is a choice. You have full control over your 

life and the decisions that you make. 

3. WHAT WOULD YOU REGRET NOT DOING? Many people have regrets when they realize they are going to die real soon. 

It is often too late for many people to go back and change the things they missed out on. They would have lived their lives 

completely differently if they had the chance. If a doctor told you that you hadn’t any time left but a few weeks, then what 

would your regrets be? Would you want to do before your time was up? 

Now that you have answered these questions you should have a good idea of some of the things that will make you happy 

and fulfill your dreams. You need to have a clear idea of the things you have always dreamed to do. Finally your passion is 

your purpose , Everyone has a passion and they can live a full life when they know exactly what their passion is and what 

they need to do. Think about this…. 


Yoga For 

Everyone 

By Zack Tanck 

Photography by Cylla von Tiedmann 

Yoga is big business, one that is largely considered to be a luxury. To 

Passport to Prana founder YuMee Chung, this didn’t seem right. Chung, 

a Canadian lawyer who entered the legal profession with the hope of bringing 

about social change, took her first yoga class on the recommendation of 

a friend because she was experiencing back pain and numbness in her arms 

from too many hours in front of the computer. She had been running from 

doctor to doctor and from body worker to body worker looking for a way to 

alleviate the work-induced discomfort. Lasting physical relief did not come 

until she found yoga. After working for a few years as a lawyer and taking 

yoga classes, Chung realized that her yoga teachers were doing a better job of 

touching people and changing lives than she was as a paper pusher. So, she 

decided to open a yoga studio. She juggled that career and law practice until 

she became too busy to do both. In the end, yoga was the obvious choice. 

The transition from lawyer to yogi was a huge personal and professional decision. 

Chung had to face losing the security of a six-figure income and a robust 

benefits package in lieu of an uncertain future. However, she realized that it 

was more important to live a healthier, more engaged life in the present moment. 

After making the jump to yoga instructor, Chung came to the realization that 

there had to be a way to remove the barriers to entry and make yoga more 

accessible to the average North American while bringing the yoga community 

together around a common project. In 2005, she started Passport to Prana 

as an experimental, collective marketing idea designed to introduce people to 

the practices of yoga by acquainting them with the yoga studios and teachers 

in their cities. Knowing that many yoga studios offer a discounted or free first 

class, and that all yoga studios are keen to meet new students, Chung simply 

formalized the idea and created structure around the idea of a yoga crawl. 

Her business concept was (and still is) simple: sell a multi-studio yoga pass 

that offers customers one free class at each of the participating studios in a 

given market at a too good to be true price. In the United States, each card 

costs a maximum of $30 per city, making the cost of each class about a $1 

depending on the region, versus the average big-city yoga class, which can 

cost upwards of $18. The benefits are clear: consumers get a smorgasbord 

of studio options to try and studios get exposure to a broader customer base 

than they could develop on their own. Says Chung, “Passport to Prana gives 

everyone, including absolute beginners, a great way to try out the yoga studios 

where they live, work and play, no matter what their income level, age, or level 

of fitness.” 

In seven years, this relatively straightforward idea has grown to include multiple 

cities throughout Canada and America. The engine behind Passport to 

Prana’s growth remained Chung, joined by her business partner Rajen Gandhi, 

with their singular strategic vision. Approaching the entire venture from a 

‘collaborative, not competitive’ perspective, Chung and Gandhi continue to encourage 

growth through ethical practices and a win-win mentality. Most of the 

profits from the sale of the actual passports get funneled back into the studios 

offering the free classes, and despite the popularity of the program, passport 

prices have remained reasonable. 

An online yoga portal is also part of their program. 

Anyone who purchases a Passport to Prana will receive 

an electronic card that is processed by the 

yoga studio just before class. 

The yogi can log onto their Passport to Prana profile 

to track everything from class attendance to 

passport information in real time. Studio listings, 

maps, contact information, up-to-date class schedules, 

special discounts, and fun contests are also 

available, making it a must-stop spot for any yoga 

lover in their city. 

www.passporttoprana.com 


Juggling 

Family 

Life and Business 

By Ginny Grimsley 

Larry Katzen forged an ambitious career as a leader at 

one of the world’s most prestigious accounting firms. 

But he has been equally ambitious with his family life; 

he’s the father of quadruplets—three sons and a daughter. 

And he felt it was important to serve his community, 

sitting on more than 10 boards of directors. 

“It was an incredible challenge and I don’t regret one 

minute of it!” says Katzen, author of “And You Thought 

Accountants Were Boring - My Life Inside Arthur Andersen,” 

(Larryrkatzen.com), a look at working in one of the 

world’s most historically important accounting firms while 

nurturing bonds with his wife and children. 

“The quadruplets were born April 22, 1974, before multiple 

births became fairly common, so we were front-page 

news and featured on all the national TV news shows,” 

Katzen says. “But that also tells you there weren’t many 

other parents who could give us advice, and certainly no 

internet forums to turn to!” 

At the time, Katzen was also working his way up the ladder 

and taking on new challenges at Arthur Andersen, one 

of the “Big 8” accounting firms. How did he and his wife, 

Susan, manage? 

“It comes down to sticking to some basic principles: doing 

the right thing, for one, and listening to your heart,” 

Katzen says. 

He draws on his 35-year career and family life to offer 

these tips for working parents with multiple children: 

• Cultivate support systems! One of the wonderful 

things about Arthur Andersen was the people who worked 

there, including his bosses, Katzen says. “They knew the 

physical and financial struggles Susan and I faced caring 

for four babies and, because I never gave less than my all 

at work, they did what they could to work around my situation,” 

he says. That included a heftier-than-usual annual 

pay raise that Katzen learned only years later was approved 

because the firm’s partners knew he would need 

the extra money. 

Susan reached out to moms of multiples to develop her 

own support system, and the couple hired a recent high 

school graduate to help care for their rambunctious brood 

a couple days a week. 

“There’s no glory in not asking for support and help,” 

Katzen says. 

• Combine business and family. Katzen traveled frequently 

for his job and, when his children were 9 years 

old, a business friend suggested he bring them along, one 

at a time, on his trips. 

“The first was my daughter, Laurie. We flew to New York 

on a Friday and spent the weekend shopping, dining, 

taking in a show. For the first time ever, we were alone 

together without any disruptions,” Katzen says. “Neither 

of us ever forgot that weekend.” 

• Consider buying a small vacation home. Traveling 

with four young children was extremely difficult, especially 

nights in motels, where the family would split up into 

two rooms – one parent and two children in each. 

“When we discovered Sun Valley, Idaho, the children were 

6. On our first trip there, they quickly learned to ski, and 

they clearly loved the snow – we could hardly get them to 

come inside,” Katzen says. 

The family so enjoyed the vacation, they looked into the 

prices of condos. 

“We found a furnished condo at a very affordable price 

and for the next 13 years, we enjoyed summers and winters 

in Sun Valley,” Katzen says. “It may sound like a big 

investment, but when you consider the costs of motels 

and dining out for a family of six, it works out well – and 

it’s a lot more comfortable.” 

After graduating from Drake University in 1967, Larry Katzen 

started working at Arthur Andersen and quickly rose through 

the ranks to become the Great Plains Regional Managing 

Partner. An honorable, hard-working man who devoted his 

life to Arthur Andersen, Larry was there from the company’s 

meteoric rise to its unjust demise. He stayed with the firm 

for 35 years, serving clients globally until 2002. In his new 

memoir, And You Thought Accountants Were Boring - My Life 

Inside Arthur Andersen, Katzen details the political fodder in 

the government’s prosecution of Enron; how the company 

was unjustly dismantled for its supposed connections to the 

corruption; its vindication and why it came too late, and the devastating impact it had on 85,000 

employees. 


Pick the 

Right CollegeFamily Features 

Photo courtesy of Getty Images 

Selecting the right college means not only choosing where you’ll 

live for the next four years, but finding the best fit for your personality, 

interests and your family’s financial situation. It’s often 

one of the biggest decisions many teens have ever faced. 

If you’re considering several colleges, the best way to compare 

them is to make a list of the things that are most important to you 

and see how each school stacks up. You might include proximity 

to home, athletics or arts programs, campus size, etc. When 

listing pros and cons, consider cost, academics, social life and the 

impact it will have on your future career. 

Consider costs 

According to the most recent Annual Survey of Colleges by the 

College Board, students attending a four-year college in their own 

state will spend an average of $17,860 on tuition, fees and room 

and board during the 2012-2013 academic year. The average 

price tag jumps to $39,518 per year for a private four-year college1. 

To cover the costs, parents and students may need to consider 

student loans, financial aid and scholarships. You can get a list of 

available scholarships from your high school guidance counselor 

as well as the colleges and universities you want to attend. It’s 

important to start your scholarship search early and look at all 

possible sources. 

For example, Foresters, an international life insurance provider 

committed to family well-being, offers the Foresters Competitive 

Scholarship Program2, which awards up to 250 tuition scholarships 

for higher learning worth up to $8,000 each in the US and 

Canada for eligible members and their spouses, children and 

grandchildren. 

Rank your priorities 

Cost may be one of the biggest factors when choosing the right 

college, but there are many things to consider while researching 

each prospective school. Though some people judge a school 

solely on published college rankings, it may be more important to 

find the rank of specific departments within those schools. A top 

medical school or culinary program could be part of a school that 

doesn’t have a high overall ranking. Assessing what you value 

most in an educational program will help put you on the path to 

success. 

Narrow down top choices 

Plan a few campus visits to get a feel for campus size, dorm life, 

the school’s resources and how helpful school staff will be. Finally, 

make sure any scholarship you might be awarded can be used at 

the schools you have on your short list. For example, Foresters 

Competitive Scholarship can be used for tuition at any vocational 

or trade school, college or university offering a full-time academic 

program of two years or more. 

If you find yourself overwhelmed by all of the choices, just make 

the best decision you can with the information you have. Many 

students change majors during their college days. What may be 

the best fit academically now can change as quickly as what you 

want to be when you graduate. 

Foresters is the trade name and a trademark of The Independent Order of Foresters, a fraternal benefit society, 789 Don Mills 

Road, Toronto, Canada M3C 1T9; its subsidiaries are licensed to use this mark. 

1 College Board Advocacy and Policy Center: Trends in Higher Education, 2012-2013 

http://trends.collegeboard.org/college-pricing/figures-tables/average-published-undergraduate-charges-sector-2012-13 

2 This program is administered by International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. Foresters member benefits are non-contractual, 

subject to eligibility requirements and limitations and may be changed or cancelled without notice. For details, visit 

foresters.com. 


Read Us Everywhere 

Available on all digital devices.

stylish, gushing and she wants to make as vivacious a statement as 

her younger counterpart. She may even acquiesce and wear white, 

ivory or a surprisingly bold color. “The bride wears what she wants 

too,” said Judie McGlinchey, a professional bridal consultant/stylist. 

Trending now in bridal fashion is bold hues, like hot pink or royal 

blue shoes just for an eye-popping punch of color underneath the 

gown. Some brides are putting a coordinating color sash on the 

gown or a little feathery flower to incorporate more color for fun. 

Styles have changed as women have evolved through decades of 

bridal fashion design. Designers in the industry are appreciative of 

a mature woman, particularly those poised with the goal to make 

her fashion choices coincide with a picture-perfect wedding. Judie 

says, “True, they’re more assertive and know what they want 

whether they’re having a beach or destination wedding, or marrying 

on a cruise – they just know.” 

L 

by 

OVE 

in the air for woman over 40 

Gina L. Battle 

Traditionally a blushing bride is on the underside of 26 years old. 

Couples have been planning their nuptials for months, perhaps 

up to a year or more. She has chosen a romantic floral bouquet; 

they’ve sampled the perfect tiered cake; invited fabulous guests; 

lamented over heavenly gowns, this all prior to the day they walk 

down the aisle to recite their vows. 

The day has finally arrived! For any bride, no matter what her age, 

the wedding day is a day like no other. It is a magical day enveloped 

with love, happiness; hope for the future, and dreams fulfilled. 

The ideal of the typical age of a bride is no longer the old standard 

-- young. For various reasons, many women are seeking wedded 

bliss at a nontraditional time in their life. It is likely getting married 

or remarried may occur beyond age 40. For the sake of this article, 

let’s assume they are experienced, independent and self-assured 

individuals. 

Whether she’s a first-time bride or has taken multiple vows, the 

case is no longer that the mature bride is hiding in unflattering, 

unassuming fashion on her wedding day. This bride is beautiful, 

The excitement doesn’t stop at a certain age group. According to 

Charlotte Bridal Boutique owners, Lynn and Ken Adkins, the eldest 

bride they have consulted was a beautiful, glowing, spry woman 

in her 80’s. 

Although there may be a significant age difference, a bride is a 

bride… and a beautiful bride shouldn’t have boundaries because 

of her age. She looks forward to her wedding day like she did as 

a little girl. 

Judie gives the same advice to younger and mature brides alike. 

It goes without saying, any bride can be influenced by family and 

friends, because their opinion means so much to her, and she might 

give way to the pressure in spite of her true feelings. However, as 

a result of the assertiveness she possesses, the bride may revisit 

the shop and choose the original dress, ending up with what she 

actually wants. 

Another great piece of advice given to help deter this from 

happening is simple. “Don’t bring too many people with 

you to try on dresses. The more people you have, the 

more opinions you’ll have to deal with and the more decisions you 

will have to make. You can be guided by your family and friends, 

but it’s between you and the groom, it’s your day whether it’s the 

first wedding or another.” Who can argue with that; wasn’t figuring 

out the seating chart enough drama? 

Being an older bride does have an essential worthwhile advantage. 

The 40+ bride most likely leaves behind any illusions about the day 

after the wedding. Her focus is not only on the day, but she and 

the groom are more apt to put effort into ‘From this day forward… 

till death do us part.’ 


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


What 

Men 

Look for in 

Women 

All men are different and what one man finds 

attractive isn’t necessarily going to be the 

same as the man next to him finds attractive. 

Plus, depending on what that man is looking 

for at the time, he will be attracted to different 

things. For example if he is just looking 

for a no strings attached fun romp then he is 

more likely to be looking at body shape and 

looks, but if he is looking for someone to have 

a serious relationship with he will be looking 

for personality, honesty and all of the other 

character traits that make a relationship work. 

There are some qualities that all men find attractive 

no matter what kind of relationship 

they are after. 

By Colleen Crawford 

Confidence 

Men like women to have a certain amount of confidence; they enjoy catching the eye of a woman when she walks into the 

room, and if she can maintain eye contact with him all the better. It shows that she is confident in who she is, how she looks 

and has a self confidence that will make her easy to be around than the more shy and retiring types. Men like a woman that can 

stand on her own two feet for the majority of the time, but will still turn to her man for support when she needs it. They do not 

want to be with someone who is unable to make decisions and is constantly relying on them to guide them and support them. 

Make Him Laugh 

A good sense of humor can go a long way towards a happy relationship. Let’s face it, who would want to be stuck in a joyless 

relationship with someone who was always miserable. Men like a woman who can laugh at their jokes, see the funny side of life 

and generally have a good time without having to be always serious about everything. Along with a good sense of humor there 

is generally a positive outlook towards life, which is what guys want, they probably have enough negative influences in their 

lives without having a girlfriend that has had a sense of humor bypass. 

Pretty as a Picture 

There is absolutely no denying that men are attracted to a pretty face and a nice figure, we’re talking the basis of attraction 

here. Men are also attracted to women that have an air of femininity about them, the more feminine a women the more masculine 

she makes her man feel. They also like a woman with nice hair, it may sound a little basic but it’s true, a woman’s hair can 

add to or detract from her femininity. A well groomed woman with a pretty face and shiny hair is more likely to attract a man 

that a woman who cares little about her appearance or her personal hygiene. 

Independence 

Independence can of course be related to confidence, but the kind of independence that we are talking about here is the independence 

that allows her to take care of herself and stand on her own two feet. A woman who is comfortable in her own space 

and can manage on her own is far more attractive to a man than a woman who needs help with everything, men do not like a 

woman who appears clingy and needy. As much as a man likes the feeling of having a woman to care for and look after, he also 

likes his own space and time to himself, an independent woman can give him this. 


Empathy and Understanding 

Men want a woman to listen to them, not someone who is far too 

engrossed in their own lives, or constantly moaning about their own 

life to spare him some time. A man will be more attracted to a woman 

that can empathize with him and show him the understanding that he 

needs, than someone who moans and nags who offers little in the way 

of support or appreciation. 

Honesty and Loyalty 

Everyone man or woman wants to be in the kind of relationship where 

the emphasis is on honesty. No one likes the thought that they are being 

lied to, and a man just like a woman, appreciates a loyal and honest 

partner. He is looking for someone that will be faithful to him, not be 

flirting with his friends the minute that his back is turned, and someone 

that will remain by his side through the ups and downs of life. 

Relaxed and Easy Going 

Men do not like relationships that are hard work, women who are 

more concerned about their appearance and what other people think 

of them is not generally someone that he can have an enjoyable relationship 

with. Men like the kind of woman who doesn’t mind if she 

smudges her makeup, or her hair gets a little tousled. While personal 

care and appearance is important to him, he needs to know that she 

can relax and let her hair down and be laid back. This is especially 

important if they are looking for a long term relationship, as when it 

comes to commitment men are more attracted to the ‘girl next door’ 

personality than that of a glamour model. 

Caring and Supportive 

Men like to feel that they are being cared for, while they enjoy having 

the status of man of the house or breadwinner, they like those little 

tokens of affection, small gestures that show them that they are being 

loved and cared for. Even something mundane as having his shirt 

ironed for him, or finding his sandwiches made for him before he goes 

to work can mean as much as a grand romantic gesture. They like to 

know that their girl is paying attention to them and taking care of the 

little things that mean a lot, a woman that does everything for a man 

can leave him feeling suffocated and overwhelmed, but get the balance 

right and you have a happy relationship. Men also like to know 

that they are being supported in their choices, whether it’s a career 

decision or a life decision they need to feel that you are by their side, 

able to offer advice when required and listening to his thoughts and 

reasoning objectively, and supporting him in his choices. 


1. Humor 

Virtually there is no man who 

doesn't find it attractive to see 

a woman with a good sense of 

humor. After the physical appearance, 

it is often one of the 

first things men will notice and 

appreciate. It is great to be a 

professional woman, but men 

need a little sense of humor to 

spice things up. Learn to laugh 

honestly and take things with 

joy to make yourself more attractive 

to men. Life is beautiful, 

enjoy it, be happy and allow 

yourself to reflect your pleasure 

in public. 

2. Intelligence 

A clever woman is an attractive 

woman, at least for most men, 

as not all men are attracted 

to "a pretty dumb doll". Many 

women only speak about the 

latest hairstyle or the latest 

Glee episode, it could be a little 

dull to many men. Many women 

only prioritize on their sexual 

appeal and pay little attention 

to their brain. In contrast, many 

men love to engage in intelligent 

and challenging conversations 

with women. 

3. Flexibility 

Maybe some man is attracted 

to a woman who has enough 

flexibility to do somersaults 

in the air, but they are more 

attracted a woman who has 

flexible ideas, comments and 

suggestions, without being too 

stubborn and arrogant. Men 

tend to have stable relationship 

with a woman who can adapt to 

the changing situations without 

breaking their own principles. 

4. Generosity 

Many men rated generosity 

and altruism as the characteristics 

of an attractive woman. It 

shouldn't be surprising, because 

a generous and selfless woman 

is clearly capable of looking beyond 

the present moment and 

see the needs of others. 

5. Good self-esteem 

Men attracted to women who 

seem to be comfortable with 

themselves. In general, men 

prefer women who don't feel 

like a garbage and behave as if 

they are worthless and simply 

lack confidence in themselves. 

To find self-esteem, you should 

trust yourself, you're a woman 

and therefore you need to do 

what it takes to be attractive to 

a man. 

6. Dynamic 

Impulsiveness, energy, drive 

and passion in a woman really 

attract most men. Usually, 

it is usually a good indicator 

of positive self-esteem, as the 

woman has the energy to deal 

with new challenges. If you set 

your eyes on something, fight 

for it and struggle to achieve it, 

this would not only make you 

a more successful person but 

also make you more attractive. 

7. Unique 

Many women with good physical 

appearance look bland, they 

just behave and talk the same. 

Just be yourself, but add something 

in your life that can convince 

men that you're not just 

an ordinary woman. 

8. Spontaneous 

Many men do things without a 

plan or do things not according 

to the plan. Occasionally allow 

yourself a bit of creativity, relax 

and release all, spontaneity 

inside you and give him a good 

surprise. Things that are done 

spontaneously have an enormous 

capacity to be really romantic, 

so don't hesitate to let 

yourself loose once in a while. 

9. Motherly instinct 

The motherly instinct is not 

necessarily only for raising children, 

there are qualities within 

it that can make any woman 

more attractive to men. Even a 

young woman should be able to 

care, comfort, cuddle, help and 

support her lover. Men like to 

be taken care of, for example, if 

he catches a cold, let him lie on 

the sofa, put a blanket over him, 

give him light kisses and tell him 

to rest while you are preparing 

a hot, delicious soup. You'll be 

highly appreciated. 

10. Tenderness 

Tenderness is a quality that is 

almost indispensable to the 

eyes of almost any man. This 

doesn't mean you have to be 

soft and tender all the time, 

but at least you should know 

when he needs a woman who 

can support him. Tenderness 

is a feminine quality that men 

love just like how women like 

sensitive men, you have heart 

and feelings, use them to win 

his heart.

Photography by Frank Atura 

The Sarasota Ballet 

to Host the 

2014 Sir Frederick Ashton 

Festival 

The Sarasota Ballet formally announced today that they will host 

a four-day festival, April 30 through May 3, which will honor the 

life and works of the British choreographer, Sir Frederick Ashton. 

With events located throughout Sarasota, Florida, the 2014 Sir 

Frederick Ashton Festival will feature 10 of the renowned choreographer’s 

ballets, as well as several films and lectures that 

highlight Ashton’s contributions to modern-day dance. 

As a Company known for presenting more Ashton ballets than any 

other American ballet company – 10 since 2007 when Director 

Iain Webb was appointed as Executive Director at The Sarasota 

Ballet – the Festival is very much Webb’s vision. 

“Having worked so closely with Ashton during my time at The 

Royal Ballet, I feel it’s my duty to help preserve his great works,” 

said Webb. 

In addition to the evening ballet performances, every afternoon 

will feature a film about Ashton and his works and a lecture/discussion 

panel, hosted at the Historic Asolo Theatre. The lectures 

will feature ballet leaders and experts such as Antoinette Sibley, 

Anthony Dowell, David Vaughan, Margaret Barbieri, Wendy Ellis 

Somes and Alastair Macaulay. 

“This festival will bring together rare and beautiful ballets, showcasing 

the works of one of the best choreographers to have ever 

lived,” said Webb. “It’s going to be a historic event.” 

Festival subscriptions are available now. Single tickets will be 

available on January 6. 

The Festival’s ballets will be performed within four programs hosted 

at The Sarasota Opera House. These ballets include Ashton’s 

Birthday Offering, Illuminations, Façade, Les Rendezvous, Symphonic 

Variations, Valses Nobles et Sentimentales, Monotones I 

& II and Sinfonietta. The closing gala performance on May 3, 

will include additional divertissements from Ashton’s repertoire as 

well as Les Patineurs, which received rave reviews last year when 

the Company performed it in Ballet Across America III at the John 

F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C. 


Since 1990 The Sarasota Ballet, the Gulf Coast of Florida’s only 

professional ballet company, has been enriching lives, captivating 

emotions and strengthening the community through the art of 

dance. Under the leadership of Director Iain Webb, the Company’s 

expanded repertoire includes works by world-renowned choreographers 

such as Sir Frederick Ashton, Dame Ninette de Valois, Twyla 

Tharp, Antony Tudor, Sir Kenneth MacMillan, John Cranko, Hans van 

Manen, Andre Prokovsky, Dominic Walsh, Christopher Wheeldon and 

Matthew Bourne. Receiving national and international recognition 

for their diverse repertoire of rarely performed ballets, The Sarasota 

Ballet was recently noted by Sarah Kaufman, a dance critic for 

The Washington Post to be “…the jewel of this year’s ‘Ballet Across 

America,’” a 2013 showcase of the best ballet companies from 

across the nation at the Kennedy Center. 

The 2014 Sir Frederick Ashton Festival Schedule 

Wednesday, April 30, 2014 

• Lecture, Historic Asolo Theatre, 12:00 p.m. 

• Film, Historic Asolo Theatre, 3:00 p.m. 

• Program 1 – Sarasota Opera House, 8:00 p.m. 

o Birthday Offering, Illuminations, Façade 

Thursday, May 1, 2014 




o Les Rendezvous, Symphonic Variations, Façade 

Friday, May 2, 2014 




o Valses Nobles et Sentimentales, Monotones I & II, 

Sinfonietta 

The 2014 Ashton Festival is being staged by The Sarasota Ballet to 

honor the life and works of the Royal Ballet’s founding choreographer, 

Sir Frederick Ashton (1909-1988). As one of ballet’s most notable 

choreographers, Ashton has been a leading influence for The 

Sarasota Ballet’s repertoire since 2007, with the Company presenting 

more Ashton ballets each season than any other American Company. 

A dance and theatre critic for the New York Times, Alastair Macaulay, 

noted “...The Sarasota Ballet has suddenly become America’s 

foremost exponent of Ashton ballets.” Held in Sarasota, Florida, 

the four day celebration spans from April 30th to May 3rd, and will 

feature lectures, demonstrations and an eclectic array of 11 Ashton 

ballets performed by The Sarasota Ballet. 

Saturday, May 3, 2014 




o Les Patineurs and a selection of Divertissements 

• Festival Gala, immediately following the end of Program 4 

www.sarasotaballet.org 


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Fashion & Style 

. 

Black is back! This Spring will be all about cool neutrals and trendy basics taking style 

to the next level for any office. Debuting Ann Taylor's new Spring 2014 Collection, 

Head Designer Lisa Axelson wanted a refresh after so much color and print the past 

few seasons. 

Perfectly combining the spring classics that every woman needs from skirts and pants 

to dresses and topper coats, the Spring collection plays on runway trends by adding 

sheer fabrics, piped lines and stripes in slate grays, creams, navy and black tones. 

"I like to mix different prints or textures within a color family so you can create this 

high-low look within your outfit. I think this love affair that we're having with blush 

instantly modernizes and feminizes old classics like black and navy," Creative Director 

Lisa Axelson says of the new Spring Collection. 

www.anntaylor.com 


Get Focused: 

Women Less Likely Than Men to Focus on Financial Planning 

By Thomas Topinka 

Additional research suggests that having financial peace of mind 

in retirement is becoming a more important financial goal than 

accumulating as much wealth as possible, and that as people age 

financial peace of mind becomes a greater priority.(1) This latest 

research validates that there is a link between one's view of their 

financial wellbeing and overall physical wellbeing. 

Women & Achieving a Balanced Life 

The notion of achieving a balanced life can often seem like an 

impossible goal for women who are juggling the competing priorities 

of family, career and caregiver. "The principles of achieving a 

balanced lifestyle are consistent with those I adopted to prepare for 

the Olympics," says Boglioli. "Like preparing for the Olympics, exercise 

routines must change and develop with input from coaches and 

discussions about what works. Creating your plan for financial wellbeing 

starts with a conversation between you and loved ones and 

develops over time to a written plan that can change as necessary." 

Boglioli offers guidance on how to manage, based on her first-hand 

experience in balancing each of these multiple roles: 

• Have a written plan: 

o Talk to a financial professional to establish a framework: An advisor 

can ask the right questions to help you understand your current 

situation and set achievable, realistic financial goals. 

Fifty-four percent of men focus on planning for their financial health 

at least once a week, compared to only 42% of women, according 

to a Genworth survey released today that evaluates consumers' 

attitudes on financial wellbeing and a balanced life. Despite this, the 

survey found that more women than men feel financial wellbeing 

are important to maintaining a balanced life. 

"We found it interesting that those who said they need financial 

wellbeing to maintain a balanced life – particularly women– are less 

likely to spend time focusing on financial planning," said Wendy 

Boglioli, national Genworth spokesperson, caregiver and 1976 

Olympic gold medalist. "Living well now and in retirement requires 

a balance between being both financially sound and physically fit. 

These factors are often overlooked due to busy lifestyles." 


• Work out for the brain: 

o Physical activities provide extraordinary benefits to brain function. 

Understanding that exercise is good for the brain as well as the 

body can be a motivator to participate in regular physical activity 

to support overall wellness. 

The online survey, conducted by ORC International, looked into a 

variety of socio-economic variables, including gender, age, income 

and household size. Factors other than financial health that respondents 

said contribute to a balanced life include family, friends, 

spirituality and intellectual outlets. 

Age Differences 

According to the survey, older respondents, 55 and over, were more 

likely to view financial wellbeing as a necessity for a balanced life,

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

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

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

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

• Over 66% of respondents ages 18-54 say that worries over their 

personal financial situation have an impact on their health, while less 

than 52% of respondents ages 55 and above agree. 

Income Differences 

Financial wellbeing is equally important to all income groups, with 

more than 60% of respondents across income levels below $75,000 

identifying financial wellbeing as needed for a balanced life. 

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

about their ability to manage the balance of physical and financial 

stress, while 61% or less of individuals below $50,000 in household 

income agree. 

Household Size 

Respondents in larger households say that worries over their personal 

financial situation have an impact on their health. This compares 

to smaller households, which are more likely to feel good 

about their ability to manage and balance physical and financial 

stress. 

• 66% of respondents with households that have three or more 

members say worries over their personal financial situation has an 

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

or two household members agree. 

"Baby Boomers are a generation of participators, but we are also 

finishers," adds Boglioli. "Understanding that there is a symbiotic 

relationship between physical and financial fitness is important to 

achieving a balanced life." 

• Households making less than $25,000 are most likely to feel like 

they need help but don't know where to get it (21% of respondents). 

15% or less of all other income groups feel the same way. 

.net 


Your 

Will 

The Overlooked 

Bucket-list Item 

Of the trendy terms to come around in the past decade, “bucket 

list” remains among the most useful, says retirement planning 

expert Jeff Gorton. 

“As a neologism, I hope it endures because it reminds us of how 

precious our time is – and that it’s important to plan wisely,” says 

Gorton, a veteran Certified Public Accountant and Certified Financial 

Planner, and head of Gorton Financial Group. 

“Unfortunately, after some have listed their items and even 

checked a few things off, they forget about one important item 

that really counts after they’ve ‘kicked the bucket’ – their will.” 

Only about 40 percent of adults in America have a will, which is 

probably due to people not wanting to be reminded of their own 

mortality and that life will go on without them, he says. 

“But what’s the alternative? If you die without one, the state 

decides what becomes of your property, without regard to your 

priorities,” says Gorton, who also advocates his clients make use 

of a written income plan (WIP), a living document that helps organize 

financial priorities. “Why not enjoy the fact that a will is an 

instrument of power? You get to decide who gets what.” 

Since so many adults don’t have a will, many don’t understand 

how they work. Gorton breaks down wills into four basic parts: 

• Executors — Most wills begin by naming an executor, the 

person responsible for carrying out the wishes outlined in the will. 

Duties include assessing the value of the estate, gathering the 

assets, paying inheritance tax and other debts if necessary, and 

distributing assets among beneficiaries. It is recommended that 

you name at least two executors in case your first choice is unable 

to fulfill the obligation. 


www.gortonfinancialgroup.com 


• Guardians — A will allows you to designate a guardian for your 

minor children. Whomever you appoint, you will want to make 

sure beforehand that the individual is able and willing to assume 

the responsibility. For many people, this is the most important 

part of a will since, if you die without naming a guardian, the 

court will decide who takes care of your children. 

• Gifts — This section enables you to identify people or organizations 

to whom you wish to give gifts of money or specific possessions, 

such as family heirlooms or a car. You can also specify 

conditional gifts, such as a sum of money to a young daughter, 

but only when she reaches a certain age. 

• Estate — Your estate encompasses everything you own, 

including real property, financial investments, cash and personal 

possessions. Once you have identified specific gifts you would like 

to distribute, you can apportion the rest of your estate in equal 

shares among your heirs, or you can split it into percentages. For 

example, you may decide to give 45 percent each to two children 

and the remaining 10 percent to a sibling. 

“You’re not legally required to have a professional write a will for 

you, but I highly recommend you get certified help because these 

documents are often contested by people who are unhappy with 

the decisions you made,” he says. “After working a lifetime for 

your assets, you deserve to have them go where you want after 

you’re gone, and your family will be grateful to you for not leaving 

them with the headache of trying to sort out your estate.”

“Good fortune is what happens when 

opportunity meets with planning.” 

- Thomas Edison 

TAKE CHARGE IN INVESTING 

ADVICE FOR WOMEN 

One of the most significant concerns I find my clients have is the 

possibility of outliving their savings. Women, whether single or 

married now, are particularly susceptible to this. 

• Longer lifespan and more likely to age independently.¹ 

• Often earn less while working and in retirement.² 

• Twice as likely to work part-time.² 

• Take leaves for family caregiving.³ 

• More likely to require long-term care themselves.³ 

It is a pleasure to share my insights to help heighten your awareness 

of the importance of planning to achieve your financial goals. 

Approximately 68% of my clientele are female. Nearly a decade of 

experience in this profession has made me knowledgeable of the 

unique challenges women face in planning to meet their financial 

objectives. 

Many people choose to work with a financial advisor because of the 

complexities of charting their financial future. If you decide that 

route, you should find a professional who focuses on your needs 

and whom you feel comfortable with. 

¹ U.S. Administration on Aging, 2010 

² U.S. Department of Labor 

³ National Alliance of Caregiving 

Planning for your future commences with laying a foundation by 

thoroughly assessing your current financial position. Then, objectives 

need to be established. Your objectives should be realistic, 

specific and measurable. What translates to a well-informed, engaged 

investor is one who pursues advice and asks questions. 

You could spend well-deserved decades in retirement. I suspect 

that you would like to maintain a comfortable lifestyle during those 

years. Many of us spend an enormous amount of time planning for 

a two-week vacation. Retirement planning is often an activity that 

many procrastinate on until that time is very near…and yet your retirement 

will hopefully be the longest vacation of your life. A knowledgeable 

financial professional’s strategies may be able to help you 

generate an income stream you cannot outlive. Sound planning 

should also incorporate various contingencies and risk mitigation. 

I would be delighted for the opportunity to talk with you should you 

have any questions. 

To summarize: TAKE CHARGE NOW! 

John Zacira 

Financial Advisor 

RMD Financial Group 

Sarasota, FL (941) 929-9726 

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


Picking the Perfect 

SmartphoneFamily 

Features 


What’s your budget? 

In your research, be sure to look at both the cost for the 

phone and the monthly contract. It’s also important to ask 

about any extra fees associated with the device, including 

activation or termination fees. Affordable Android smartphone 

plans from TracFone include talk, text and data and 

start as low as $7 per month. Smartphones can be expensive 

devices, but with a little research you should be able 

to find a deal for one that can help you do more, without 

spending more. 

With advancements that seemingly occur every minute, it 

can be difficult to keep up with the ever-changing smartphone. 

When looking for one to fit your lifestyle, it’s important 

to ask yourself a few simple questions. Doing so will 

ensure you choose the best phone to fit your lifestyle. 

From managing emails to connecting with friends, a 

smartphone can do a great number of things. But all of 

these features can be overwhelming when you’re in the 

market for a new smartphone. Since a smartphone purchase 

often includes a binding contract that can last for 

years, it is important to ask yourself a few of questions 

before making the commitment. 

Whether you are a savvy, resourceful consumer, someone 

looking for an inexpensive way to become a first 

time smartphone user, or a budget-focused head of 

household, you need to find the right smartphone that 

fits your lifestyle. Here are a few tips to get you pointed 

in the right direction towards a satisfactory purchase: 

What will you use it for? 

Before you are enticed by a shiny television advertisement 

for the hottest new device, decide what the primary 

functions will be. If you want the ability to search 

the Internet or communicate through social media 

apps, a smartphone with a user friendly keyboard and 

an extensive data plan may be what you’re after. Consider 

if you will need the phone for work, play or both. 

Contract plans, and even some non-contract plans, 

force you to pay for data, minutes or texts that you 

may not need or want. But some providers, such as 

TracFone, allow you to pay only for what you use, and 

any unused talk, text and data carryover as long as you 

keep your service active. 

Where will you use it? 

It’s important to choose a carrier that offers reliable 

coverage for the areas where you will be using your 

phone the most. Providers, such as TracFone, offer 

nationwide coverage across America’s largest and most 

dependable networks. 

www.tracfoneandroid.com 


" 

Watch making is just like the cinema, it 

hides a precise mechanism which must 

then generate emotion. The world of 

ROGER DUBUIS, the arrival of its collections, 

like spaces of freedom, perfectly 

matches my principles. You need to 

take chances in life. And always push 

yourself. 

" 

Gerard Butler

Photos courtesy of Getty Images 

Family Features 

Car Shopping Made Easy 

The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year to 

purchase a new car. While driving one off the lot can be exhilarating, 

many consumers wonder if they bought the perfect car at the 

best price. For those looking to add a new automobile under their 

tree, there are a few factors to consider. 

There is a little-known way for consumers to purchase the car of 

their dreams – through an automotive rewards card. A recent survey 

found that that only 5 percent of consumers have a rewards 

card with automotive benefits, meaning most Americans may not 

even be aware of this type of credit card reward. Of course, the 

best way to make sure you’re getting the most for your money 

is by conducting a little research before ever starting the buying 

process. 

After all, car buying is fun when you know exactly what you want, 

how much it will cost and how you’re going to pay for it. Here are 

a few things to consider before you step on to a car lot. 

Figure out what you can afford: Buying a new car can be one 

of the biggest purchases most people ever make. Some experts 

suggest capping your car payment at no more than 20 percent 

of your monthly take home pay. You can keep the cost down 

by looking for dealer sales and other savings options, like the 

GM Card from Capital One. The card allows users to accumulate 

earnings and redeem them towards the purchase or lease of a 

new Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac vehicle. Consumers earn 5 

percent on their first $5,000 worth of net card purchases annually 

and an unlimited 2 percent on all other purchases. Car buyers are 

offered value, simplicity and the ability to earn and use rewards 

with no expiration and no limits on how much they can apply toward 

their new GM automobile. To learn more about the new GM 

Card from Capital One, visit www.capitalone.com/gmcard. 

Narrow down your choices: Although a sporty two-seater might 

be the perfect choice for a single driver, families might be equally 

as thrilled with a brand new crossover or sedan. When looking for 

a car, write down what’s important to you. Consider such things 

as seating capacity, gas mileage, safety and performance. Armed 

with this list, you’ll be able to narrow down your choice to that 

perfect set of new wheels. 

Get the best deal: Any major purchase requires keeping an eye 

on the bottom line. Follow the automotive section of your local 

newspaper or get on the Internet to find the best sales. You 

should also look for incentives and rebates to lower the car’s cost. 

Another savvy money saving idea is to cash in the rewards you’ve 

accumulated on your credit card. For example, the GM Card from 

Capital One comes with no annual fee and offers no limits and no 

expirations on the rewards consumers can accumulate towards 

the purchase or lease of a new Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac 

vehicle. According to Capital One’s survey, nearly 60 percent 

of consumers who hold an automotive reward card have unused 

earnings. For of those who like to let rewards build up, and are in 

the market for a new car, using the GM Card from Capital One is 

a great way to earn cash rewards and add some extra savings for 

your down payment. Another perk to the GM Card from Capital 

One is that it also comes with World Elite MasterCard benefits 

ranging from upscale travel enhancements, to security and protection 

benefits, to VIP experiences and concierge services. 

Explore your options: Few aspects of the car buying process are 

more fun than looking at all the bells and whistles. Luxurious 

upholstery, power locks, remote keyless entry and heated mirrors 

are some conveniences many new car owners wouldn’t want to 

live without. Others may covet DVD systems, high-tech audio 

equipment, satellite radio, hands-free phones or navigation systems 

built into the dash. Make a list of your must-haves. 

Before you step onto the showroom floor, it’s important to know 

exactly what kind of car you need, how much you want to spend 

and what options you consider necessities. Armed with this knowledge, 

you can then negotiate the best price and ride off in the car 

or truck of your dreams. 


absolute 

performance 

By Mai Yomioto 

A new era is beginning for Automobili Lamborghini and the luxury 

super sports car segment: with the brand new Huracán Lamborghini 

is not only presenting the successor to the iconic Gallardo, 

but is also redefining the benchmark for luxury super sports cars 

in this segment. With its pure and unique design, an innovative 

technology package, outstanding dynamics and excellent quality, 

the Huracán offers a super sports car experience on a whole new 

level. The Huracán combines absolute performance with easy-todrive 

road behavior and both luxurious and sport-oriented finish. 

With the Huracán, Lamborghini is taking a big step into the future, 

and enhancing the brand’s illustrious history with the next automotive 

legend. 

Starting from January 2014 the Huracán will be the protagonist of 

over 130 private preview events in more than 60 cities throughout 

the world. 

With a total volume of 14,022 cars produced, the Lamborghini 

Gallardo has been the most successful Lamborghini ever and, in 

its ten-year lifecycle, lifted the Lamborghini marque to a whole 

new level. Its successor, the new Huracán, has been developed 

from scratch down to the very last detail and, like the Gallardo 

and most other Lamborghini models, derives its name from the 

world of bullfighting. The fighting bull Huracán of the Spanish 

Conte de la Patilla breed was known for his outstanding courage 

and strong sense of attack. He fought in Alicante in August 1879, 

showing his unrelenting character and remaining defiant and invincible, 

thus entering into the legend of fighting bulls’ history. 

The new Huracán revolutionizes the design language of the Gallardo 

and is pure in its lines: precise technology and top level 

craftsmanship meet an audacious design with sharp edges, monolithic 

and sculptured volumes and precise surfaces. The starting 

point is the silhouette of the Huracán, born out of the desire of 

creating an automobile, whose profile is defined by only one line 

that merges the front with the cockpit and the rear of the car. 

The lateral windows come together to create a hexagonal form 

inserted like a glass jewel in the car’s profile. 

Also by night is the Huracán unmistakably a Lamborghini. Not 

only are the main headlamps equipped with full LED illumination, 

but all other light functions also feature state-of-the-art LED 

technology as a standard feature for the first time in the segment. 

The interior is dominated by an innovative cockpit. A 12.3 inch 

full-color TFT instrument panel delivers all car information to the 

driver, from rev counter to navigation maps and infotainment 

functions, and can be configured by the driver in different setups. 

Fine Nappa leather and Alcantara distinguish the interior, with 

several color combinations offered to ensure broad individualization 

options. The design of dashboard and central tunnel underline 

a new lightness in the interior. Superb craftsmanship guarantees 

the highest quality and sense of luxury throughout. 

Systematic lightweight design and Automobili Lamborghini’s extensive 

expertise in carbon fiber come together in the Huracán’s 

new hybrid chassis – an integrated structure of carbon and aluminum 

elements. With a dry weight of 3,135 lbs it enables not 

only the excellent power-to-weight ratio of just 5.1 lbs per horse 

power, but also guarantees race-car precision with outstanding 

stiffness. 

The new 5.2 liter V10 engine delivers a maximum power of 610 

HP at 8,250 rpm and developing maximum torque at 6,500 rpm. 

In the new “Iniezione Diretta Stratificata” (IDS), direct and indirect 

gasoline injections are smartly combined. This results in 

more power and torque with lower fuel consumption and emissions 

compared with the Gallardo V10 engine. The top speed of 

over 200 mph and the acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 3 seconds 

and to 124 mph in 9.9 seconds only partially describe the dynamic 

experience at the wheel of the Huracán. Also, thanks to the 

Stop & Start technology, the combined EU consumption figure has 

been further reduced to comply with EU6 emissions regulation. 


The power of the V10 engine is brought to the road via the new 

7-speed dual-clutch transmission “Lamborghini Doppia Frizione” 

(LDF) and fully electronically controlled four-wheel drive system. 

The different driving modes of the Huracán can be selected via 

a driving dynamics selector switch in the steering wheel – from 

traction-oriented on the road to extreme performance on the race 

track, with three setups of the dynamics system: STRADA, SPORT 

and CORSA. The different modes ensure extensive modification in 

road behavior of the Huracán. In particular they influence the setups 

of several systems, such as the gearbox and engine behavior, 

the sound, the four-wheel-drive system and electronic stability 

control. 

The Huracán’s carbon-ceramic brakes are a standard feature 

for consistently superb braking performance. The “Lamborghini 

Dynamic Steering” variable steering ratio system and magnetorheologic 

suspension damper control are both available as options 

for further customization of the Huracán’s dynamic behavior. They 

are also calibrated via the three different dynamic set-ups. 

The Huracán is produced at the Automobili Lamborghini headquarters 

in Sant’Agata Bolognese on an entirely newly-equipped 

production line. Delivery to the first customers is planned for 

spring 2014. 


Prancing 

Passionby Mai Yomioto 

For year’s Ferrari has developed a wide range of blistering performance 

sports cars. All share the same Ferrari DNA in terms 

of performance, driving pleasure and technology, yet each one 

has its own strongly unique identity, in line with the company’s 

philosophy of “different Ferraris for different Ferraristi”. 

The Prancing Horse’s eagerly-anticipated limited-series LaFerrari, 

of which just 499 will be built, made its debut at this year’s Art 

Basel Miami. LaFerrari encompasses the very best from the prancing 

horse’s passion, technology and exclusivity. 

“We chose to call this model LaFerrari,” declared Ferrari’s President, 

Luca di Montezemolo, “because it is the maximum expression 

of what defines our company – excellence. Excellence in 

terms of technological innovation, performance, visionary styling 

and the sheer thrill of driving. Aimed at our collectors, this is a 

truly extraordinary car which encompasses advanced solutions 

that, in the future, will find their way onto the rest of the range, 

and it represents the benchmark for the entire automotive industry. 

LaFerrari is the finest expression of our company’s unique, 

unparalleled engineering and design know-how, including that 

acquired in Formula 1.” 

perfect combination of maximum performance and lower emissions. 

LaFerrari in fact emits just 330 g/km of CO2 but without 

resorting to electric-only drive which would not fit the mission 

of this model. The HY-KERS system is, however, designed so 

that in future applications a car can be driven using exclusively 

electric power for a few miles and, during development testing, 

a full-electric version of LaFerrari achieved just 220 g/km of C02 

emissions on the combined cycle. 

Flavio Manzoni developed the LaFerrari’s styling as an exacting 

link between form and function; the result an extreme, innovative 

design which retains close links to the marque’s tradition. This is 

most evident in its side profile, the car has a sharp, downwardsloping 

nose and a very low bonnet which emphasizes its muscular 

wheel arches, a clear nod to the gloriously exuberant forms of 

late-1960s Ferrari sports prototypes. 

The LaFerrari’s body has been given a sculptural treatment heavily 

influenced by its clearly F1-inspired aerodynamics and a tail section 

that exudes uncompromising sportiness. 

For Ferrari the development of a limited-series special like the 

LaFerrari represents an opportunity to experiment with all the 

technological solutions that will later filter down onto the production 

cars. Of particular significance in this context is the introduction 

of the hybrid system which, making full use of the Scuderia 

Ferrari’s F1 KERS know-how, has resulted in a solution that exalts 

Ferrari’s fundamental values – performance and driving thrills. 

The hybrid technology used, known as HY-KERS, represents the 


Inside there’s a newly-designed steering wheel sporting all the 

major commands, and the gear-shift paddles are now longer and 

more ergonomic. The signature bridge on which the F1 gearbox 

functions are clustered has taken on a sleek, suspended wing-like 

shape. The whole interior, in fact, has a fiercely track-inspired, 

pared-back allure. 

The LaFerrari is the first car in Ferrari history to be powered by 

the HY-KERS system. The ICE represents the pinnacle of engine 

development and research, with a 6262 cc V12 that punches out 

800 CV and revs to a maximum of 9,250 rpm, a record for an 

engine of this displacement. It also features a very high 13.5:1 

compression ratio and a high specific output equal to 128 CV per 

litre. The engine is coupled with a 120 Kw (163 CV) electric motor, 

giving it a combined power output of 963 CV. 

The layout of the cabin made a significant contribution in this 

regard. The seat is fixed and tailored to the driver while both the 

pedal box and steering wheel are adjustable. The driving position 

is similar to that of a single-seater and was designed after 

consultation with the Scuderia Ferrari drivers, Fernando Alonso 

and Felipe Massa, who played an active role throughout the entire 

development process. 

The LaFerrari’s chassis features no less than four different types 

of carbon-fibre, all hand-laminated and autoclave-cured in the 

racing department using the same design and production methods 

as the Formula 1 car. 

The electric motor is coupled with the F1 dual-clutch gearbox to 

the benefit of optimal weight distribution, but also to boosting energy 

efficiency as torque is instantly available to the wheels and, 

vice versa, from the wheels to the electric motor in recharging. 

Photos courtesy of Ferrari S.p.A 

The LaFerrari is equipped with dynamic controls that are integrated 

for the first time ever on a Ferrari road car with active aerodynamics 

and the HY-KERS system. Thanks to Ferrari’s proprietary 

logic which govern all the systems, the car can achieve absolute 

levels of performance, aerodynamic efficiency and handling without 

any form of compromise in any area. A very advanced and 

uncompromising approach was also taken with the interior design 

which features an HMI inspired by F1 single-seaters. 

The LaFerrari’s architecture posed the first challenge for the 

Prancing Horse team at the planning stage of the design. The aim 

was to achieve ideal weight distribution (59% at the rear) and a 

compact wheelbase despite the extra bulk of the hybrid system. 

The result is that all of the masses are situated between the car’s 

two axles and as close as possible to the floor to lower its center 

of gravity and thereby guaranting dynamic handling and compact 

dimensions. 

The high torque levels available at low revs from the electric 

motor allowed the engineers to optimize the internal combustion 

engine’s performance at higher revs, thus providing a constant 

supply of exceptional power throughout the rev range. Total 

torque generated is in excess of 900 Nm. The hybrid system is 

composed of two electric motors developed in collaboration with 

Magneti Marelli – one powering the driven wheels and the second 

the ancillaries – and a battery pack attached to the floor of the 

chassis consisting of cells that are assembled in the Scuderia Ferrari 

department where the KERS for the F138 is also made. 

The batteries are charged in different ways: under braking (even 

hard braking with the ABS active) and every time the V12 produces 

more torque than required, such as in cornering. In the latter 

instance, rather than the being sent to the wheels, the excess 

torque is converted to energy and stored in the batteries. 


One further innovative aspect of the LaFerrari is the integration of 

its active aerodynamics and hybrid system with the other dynamic 

control systems aboard. This means the car responds intelligently 

to driver inputs, making for a seamless blend of unprecedented 

performance and unparalleled driving emotions. 

The car’s extreme performance potential called for a different tire 

set-up, with 265/30 R 19 Pirelli P-Zeros on the front and 345/30 R 

20s on the rear. 

All in all the car guarantees maximum driving thrills in every situation 

and performance levels are top level: 0-60 mph in less than 3 

seconds and 0-110 mph in under 7 seconds. LaFerrari is thus the 

fastest road car in Maranello’s long history. 

To boost efficiency, the LaFerrari sports active aerodynamic 

devices front (diffusers and guide vane on the underbody) and 

rear (diffusers and rear spoiler) which generate down force when 

needed without compromising the car’s overall drag coefficient. 

These devices deploy automatically on the basis of a number of 

different performance parameters which are monitored in real 

time by the car’s dynamic vehicle controls, thus guaranteeing the 

ideal configuration on the basis of the driving conditions. 

From Ferrari’s first four-seater, four-wheel drive FF, its sublime 

thoroughbred like the California 30 to the blistering performance 

of the 458 Italia and F12berlinetta. All these models continue 

Ferrari’s glorious tradition of inspiration from the legendary maker 

with one particular goal in mind… uncompromising performance. 

The LaFerrari extends those characteristics. 


Final 

Enactment 


In June 2013 came the market launch of the two most powerful variants: 

the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series with 622 hp and the SLS AMG Coupé 

Electric Drive with 740 hp. 

Now the grand finale: the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION brings an impressive 

era to an end in exclusive style. The FINAL EDITION model, built in a limited 

run of just 350 units globally, represents the last opportunity for customers 

to order a SLS AMG GT – while at the same time re-flecting the unrivalled 

success story and unique scope offered by the first vehicle to be completely 

built by Mercedes-AMG. The super sports car, with its 583 hp AMG 6.3 -liter 

V8 front -mid engine, offers a fascinating combination of truly exceptional 

design and equipment features while exclusively developed optional Cup 

tires enhance its dynamic performance. 

The SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION is celebrating its twin world premiere at 

the Los Angeles Auto Show and the Tokyo Motor Show (both: November 

20 to December 1, 2013). The market launch will begin in March 2014 and 

the super sports car will be available as either a Coupé or a Roadster and 

once 350 units have been built, production of the SLS AMG model series 

will come to an end. 

The super sports car celebrated its world premiere in its Coupé guise at 

the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt/Main in September 2009, 

with the market launch taking place in the spring of 2010. The spectacular 

gull-wing model was followed in 2011 by the SLS AMG Roadster and the 

customer-sport racing model, the SLS AMG GT3. With various titles in international 

championships such as the ADAC GT Masters, the FIA GT3 European 

Championship and the FIA GT1 World Championship, as well as over 

100 victories in race series on five continents, the racing version of the gullwing 

model has impressively demonstrated its extraordinary performance. 

In particular, long-distance successes in the Bathurst 12-hour race and the 

24-hour races in Dubai, at the Nürburgring, in Spa-Francorchamps and in 

Barcelona have spectacularly confirmed the competitiveness of the racing 

gull-wing model. In 2013 alone, the SLS AMG GT3 2013 thus claimed the 

"grand slam" of classic GT3 long-distance races, with four victories in succession. 

In the hotly contested Blancpain Endurance Series, the SLS AMG 

GT3 similarly won the championship title in 2013. 

that has been adopted from the SLS AMG GT3 "45th ANNIVERSARY" collector's 

model race car. In addition to the carbon fiber components, the unique 

design AMG forged wheels have a distinctly aggressive flair. To add to the 

visual impression when seen from behind, the struts of the rear apron are 

finished in high-gloss black. 

The new aerodynamic components which are comprised of an exposed 

carbon fiber hood, a carbon fiber rear spoiler and a carbon fiber front splitter 

all function to increase down force on both the front and the rear axles. 

As on the SLS AMG Coupe Black Series and the SLS AMG GT3, the carbon 

fiber hood of the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION features a functional central 

air outlet. Apart from effectively dissipating engine heat, this outlet also 

increases down force at the front axle and improves the Cd value. The engineers 

at AMG have utilized the vacuum effect to deliver the double benefit 

of dissipating the hot air from the engine compartment at the same time 

as drawing up the cool airflow from the vehicle's underbody. The optimized 

aerodynamic balance not only improves the car's potential on the racing 

circuit, but also contributes to handling safety. 

Opening the exposed carbon-fiber hood reveals the front mid-mounted 

AMG 6.3-liter V8 power unit set low down and well to the back. With an 

output of 583 hp at 6800 rpm and maximum torque of 479 lb-ft of torque 

at 4750 rpm, the high-revving eight-cylinder engine guarantees dynamic 

driving at its finest. 

Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG 

GmbH: "As the first car to be completely developed by AMG, the SLS AMG 

marked the beginning of a new era for our company. And now, in the form 

of the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION, we are offering our customers one final 

and extremely attractive variant of our super sports car". 

The special design of the SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION ensures that it 

stands out in visual terms: the exposed carbon fiber hood with central air 

outlet, the carbon fiber front splitter on the front apron, the fixed carbon 

fiber rear spoiler that is reminiscent of the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series and 

the exclusive AMG forged light-alloy wheels make it a real head-turner. Particularly 

in conjunction with the designo magno graphite matte paintwork 


AMG forged wheels on the Final Edition are available in two color variants, 

along with exclusively developed “Dunlop Sport Maxx Race" Cup tires in size 

265/35 R 19 (front) and 295/30 R 20 (rear) are available on request as a 

no-cost option.

It is not only the exterior design and the engineering of the SLS AMG GT FI- 

NAL EDITION that will satisfy the most discerning of tastes, but also the interiors 

ambience. Exclusive leather in a diamond-stitch pattern that is used 

to upholster the center panels of both the seats and the doors. Contrasting 

topstitching in silver coordinates perfectly with the black leather upholstery, 

the silver seat belts and the black floor mats edged in silver leather. High 

gloss carbon fiber trim comes as standard. 

A particularly exclusive detail is the "AMG FINAL EDITION - 1 of 350" badge 

on the carbon fiber center console. A further high-quality detail of the dashboard 

is the unique "3D seam": a fine strip of Alcantara® set into the 

leather-covered upper dashboard. This high level of attention to detail is 

a signature hallmark of Mercedes-AMG. Contrasting topstitching skillfully 

hand worked in silver adds the finishing touch to the 3D seam, underlining 

the craftsmanship involved. The AMG Performance steering wheel in 

Alcantara® with a silver 12 o'clock marking features high-gloss black metal 

inserts which match the high-gloss black surrounds of the air vents. The 

sports seats feature an embossed AMG crest in the head restraints. 

The SLS AMG GT FINAL EDITION accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 3.6 

seconds, and can reach 124 mph in 11.2 seconds. The top speed is 197 mph 

(electronically limited). 

Fast-reacting, variable and emotionally exciting – the AMG SPEEDSHIFT 

DCT 7-speed sports transmission proves to be the perfect match for the 

V8 naturally aspirated engine. With four shift programs, RACE START and 

an automatic double-declutching function, the dual-clutch transmission 

mounted in a transaxle configuration on the rear axle brings with it the 

perfect prerequisites for top performance. The particularly dynamic shift 

characteristics, and the shorter reaction time when selecting gears manually, 

enhance the emotional experience for the driver. The AMG Adaptive 

Performance Suspension with variable, electronically controlled damping, 

includes the "Sport" and "Sport plus" modes. 

Whether Coupé, Roadster, GT, Black Series, Electric Drive, the GT3 racing 

version, the new FINAL EDITION or – last not least – the Official F1® Safety 

Car in the Formula 1® World Championship: the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG 

has been causing a stir since 2009. The output of the models with roadgoing 

approval ranges from 563 hp to 740 hp. 

Since its world premiere in 2009 the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG has won 

numerous awards of international significance. Not least on the basis of its 

breathtaking design and acknowledged superb driving dynamics, the super 

sports car from Mercedes-AMG is today already deemed to be a classic of 

the future. 


at it's 

best 

The all-new C-Class heralds a new chapter 

in the Mercedes- Benz success story and 

sets new standards in the premium midrange 

class. Thanks to an intelligent lightweight 

design concept boasting weight 

savings of up to 220 lbs, excellent aerodynamics 

and new, economical engines, the 

C-Class establishes new benchmarks in its 

class. A host of new assistance systems offer 

safety of the highest standard, while 

a new suspension, optionally air-sprung, 

provides for exemplary ride and driving 

comfort as well as nimble and agile handling. 

In terms of appearance the new C-Class 

adopts a progressive approach with its 

clear yet emotional design and its highclass 

interior. Many other innovations and 

interior touches underscore the sedan's 

luxurious comfort and refined sportiness. 

In all, the perceived quality of the new 

C-Class feels like an "upgrade to a higher 

class of travel." 

The C-Class is the top-selling model series 

from Mercedes-Benz. Sales of the preceding 

model, which was launched in 2007, total 

over 2.4 million. The new C-Class offers 

sensuous and clear design and a host of 

technical innovations as well as a comprehensive 

scope of standard equipment and 

exemplary emission and fuel consumption 

values. The U.S. market launches with two 

C-Class models: C300 4MATIC with a 2.0L 

turbocharged direct-injection in-line fourcylinder 

engine with preliminary power figures 

of 235 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque and 

a C400 4MATIC with a 3.0L turbocharged 

direct-injection V6 at 329 hp and 354 lb-ft 

of torque. 


"Mercedes at its best - that's the new C- 

Class, which sets new standards for the 

mid-range segment on many fronts," 

says Prof. Dr Thomas Weber, Member of 

the Board of Management of Daimler AG 

responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz 

Cars Development. "It is characterized 

by an emotional yet clear design 

which is continued in the high-quality and 

modern interior. Its efficient and high-performance 

engineering provides the basis 

for a high standard of driving enjoyment." 

Ola Källenius, Executive Vice President, 

Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars, 

adds: "The new C-Class embodies Mercedes-Benz's 

claim ‘The best or nothing' in 

uncompromising style. This is immediately 

apparent when encountering our new Saloon 

for the first time, as it creates the impression 

that one is sitting in a higher class 

of automobile. I am sure that our customers 

will be delighted by the high-class appeal 

and agility of the new C-Class." 

The C-Class has grown to take account of 

people's increasing average height. With a 

3 inch increase in the wheelbase (112 inches) 

compared with the previous model, the 

vehicle is 3.7 inches longer (184 inches) 

and 1.6 inches wider (71 inches). The resultant 

additional space benefits first and 

foremost the rear passengers, who now 

travel in even greater comfort. The new 

C-Class also increases its trunk capacity to 

17 cubic feet. 


On a visual level, the new C-Class represents 

a bold departure from its predecessor. 

Its striking, dynamic design exudes 

sensuous clarity and arouses emotions. 

Nature was a source of inspiration for the 

new sedan's aesthetically sensuous lines 

and surfaces, whose harmony and dynamism 

create an immediate effect. The 

designers have created minimalist, purist 

forms for the C-Class which emphasizes 

its intelligent technology and engineering. 

The clearly defined surfaces deliberately 

display a degree of tension, lending them a 

muscular and sensuous character. Precise 

lines and sculptural surfaces create lively 

light and shade effects. 

The Mercedes-Benz designers have styled 

the interior on a level which is rarely encountered 

even in higher vehicle categories. 

This applies to the carefully chosen 

high-class materials and their pleasant 

touch and feel as well as the precision of 

the finely crafted details. The interior also 

embodies a new design idiom which combines 

sensuousness and clarity perfectly 

with dynamic sportiness and contributes 

to the quality feel of the interior. 

The interior design demonstrates a bold 

new approach by Mercedes-Benz. Here the 

designers combine in accomplished style 

the architecture of Mercedes- Benz sports 

cars with a totally new center console 

featuring flowing lines. A large one-piece 

center console panel performs an elegant 

sweep from the center air vents to the 

armrest. These seamless clear-cut lines 

create a sense of open space and convey a 

thrillingly purist and modern feel.

MOBILE ROCK CLIMBING! 

If you have been driving around town 

and seen a guy hauling a 25 foot portable 

rock climbing tower, then you have 

just seen Mike Clark. Mike’s passions is 

Mobile Rock Climbing... to name a few! 

Mike Clark has a story that is incomparable 

to none. Mike Clark started his 

mobile rocking climbing business in 

2002 after quitting his job of ten years. 

After getting a bit burnt out with his 

schedule, Mike thought it would be great 

to get away for a couple of days near the 

Disney area in Orlando. Mike wanted to 

see what else was in the area other than 

Disney and saw rock climbing as a fun 

activity, so he went online and found a 

rock climbing gym. 

Just before he made his reservation, he 

saw a link that said, “Click here.” He said 

he usually is apprehensive about such 

links but this time he clicked on to it. In 

his own words Mike said, “there popped 

up this photo of this portable rock climbing 

tower over the top of the image was 

written ‘income possibilities’. 

I had never heard nor ever saw a portable 

rock climbing wall before but as soon 

as I saw that picture with the phrase 

income possibilities it was like getting hit 

by a ton of bricks. I said I don’t care how 

much that thing cost, I’m going to buy 

that rock climbing wall.” And he did! 

Mike’s area of operation is from Sarasota 

to Marco Island. Portable Rock 

Climbing is available for your birthday 

parties, school functions, summer camp 

programs, grand openings and luxury 

resorts. Mike is a super friendly and outgoing 

kind of guy, as we have come to 

know him. 

You and your friends are in for one great 

time by having Mike at your next event. 

Mike can be reached at 

941-286-4993 or Website 

www.amobilemountain.com 

As Gorden Wagener, Vice President Design Daimler AG, notes: 

"The new CClass showcases automotive passion by way of a contemporary 

design idiom. Progressive and emotional highlights underscore 

the ground-breaking design style of the new C-Class and 

demonstrate sensual clarity. The new C-Class interprets modern 

luxury on a new level." 

Even though many driver's and passenger’s may not consciously 

notice NVH (noise, vibration, harshness), Mercedes-Benz has devoted 

painstaking attention to optimizing the noise characteristics 

of the interior; including the blower, power windows, seat adjustment 

functions and many other actuation and operating noises. 

The suspension on the new C-Class is a totally new development. 

It provides for nimble and agile handling that makes driving a 

great pleasure on winding roads while also offering the highest 

standard of ride comfort in the segment. An optimized multi-link 

independent rear suspension with 5-link concept ensures unsurpassed 

wheel location qualities and supreme straight-line stability. 

Alternatively, the new C-Class is the first vehicle in its segment 

that can be fitted with an air suspension (AIRMATIC) on the front 

and rear axles. Thanks to electronically controlled, continuous 

variable damping at the front and rear, it offers outstanding road 

roar and tire vibration characteristics even with the vehicle loaded. 

The driver can use the AGILITY SELECT switch 

to choose between the various characteristics: 

"Comfort", "ECO", "Sport" and "Sport+." The 

additional "Individual" option enables drivers 

to configure their vehicle according to their 

own wishes. AIRMATIC also features all-round 

self-leveling for optimum ride comfort even 

when the vehicle is loaded. As a result, the 

suspension responds more sensitively to steering 

movements and allows a sporty, agile driving 

style. 

Mercedes-Benz has undertaken systematic 

development and substantial improvements in 

the new C-Class. This applies in particular to 

the comfort, performance, efficiency and air 

of quality; thus contributing to a feel-good atmosphere 

highlighting the status of this cultivated 

sedan in duly self-assured style. 


GRANDE! 

Azimut Yachts introduces the Azimut Grande 95RPH: a new hull, 

new design, and innovative solutions for a vessel with many surprises 

in store. The 95RPH is part of the Grande collection, the line 

of 95’-120' luxury yachts from the Italian shipyard. 

The Grande 95 RPH is coming out in spring 2014; however, thanks 

to renderings, it is possible to preview some of the boatyard's interesting 

solutions that improve functionality without altering the 

style. 

Foremost among the new features introduced by concept and exterior 

designer Stefano Righini is the raised wheelhouse. The boat’s 

name - RPH - actually stands for Raised Pilot House, giving some 

indication of the importance of the decision to separate the wheelhouse 

from the main deck. This is accomplished by creating a half 

deck which gives the boat owner and guests more space and maximises 

privacy from the crew. The designer has also managed to 

integrate the raised wheelhouse with the vessel’s hallmark exterior 

lines, retaining that special Azimut Grande family look. 

Thanks to the raised wheelhouse, the Grande 95RPH has five cabins, 

four guest cabins on the lower deck and the boat owner’s cabin 

on the main deck towards the bow. The exceptional view and large 

bathroom make the boat owner cabin a veritable suite with an unparalleled 

sea view. There is also a liberating sense of space in the 

95 RPH saloon; here, Righini has created a real sense of continuity 

between inside and outside, thanks in part to the double, floor-toceiling 

picture windows. 

The luxurious and elegant interiors are by Studio Salvagni Architetti 

for Azimut Yachts, a proven collaboration that has led to such successful 

models as Azimut 80, Azimut 84, and Azimut 88. 

To the stern, there is a garage with pivoting platform for a + 4-metre 

tender jet; the engine room has two MTU 16V2000 M84 motors 

which, when combined with the planing hull with skeg, provides 

for significantly improved directional stability, enabling maximum 

speeds of 26.5 knots and cruising speeds of 20 knots. The 3,170 

gallon fuel tank and 528 gallon water tank ensure great range, 

even for long crossings. 

Despite being a vessel with an overall length of nearly 29 metres, 

the Grande 95 RPH falls within the 24-metre cut-off and therefore 

can be registered as a pleasure craft. In many countries around 

the world this is a distinction which offers the boat owner serious 

advantages both in terms of crew management and administration, 

with significant savings in time and money. This is because 

pleasure crafts do not require a professional captain or engineer 

and have reduced crew requirements. In addition, the registration 

procedures are definitely simplified, with the corollary benefits for 

charter use: regulations are in conformance with MGN280 guidelines, 

MCA equivalent for under 24 metres. 

The Grande 95 RPH is the Grande collection's first model since it 

was incorporated into the Azimut Yachts family, now with five collections: 

Atlantis, Magellano, Flybridge, S and – of course - Grande. 

Another Azimut Grande trump card is without doubt the exceedingly 

spacious flybridge - awarded Best in Class; it includes a cushy 

exterior dinette that seats 10, a mini bar, Jacuzzi, and comfortable 

sunbathing area. 

The layout sleeps 10 with the boat owner’s suite and four VIP cabins, 

each with a private bath; there is also a day head. The fourmember 

crew has three cabins and two baths to the bow, with 

separate access to the kitchen located on the main deck. 

www.azimutyachts.com 


New Futurist 

Superyacht 

In 2010 Sunreef Yachts launched a new range of fast performance 

cruisers from 70 to 170 feet – THE ULTIMATE RANGE. 

The company resolved to explore a new market niche by 

introducing sophisticated design line of ultra-modern, highperformance 

sailing catamarans with environment friendly 

elements. The most impressive megayacht from this range is 

certainly the Ultimate 165 by Sunreef. 

This extremely spacious vessel with its total living area (interior 

and exterior) of 560 sqm can easily accommodate 12 

guests and 10 crew. Arrangements of the lodgings offers extraordinary 

huge areas, luxury saloon open space with relax 

area, dining and bar. Additionally, an open cockpit connects 

with saloon via sliding doors. Port side hull is dedicated to 

guests, starboard one to the crew. 

Specification: 

Length: 165 ft 

Beam: 52,5 ft 

Draft: 10.8 ft 

Mast Length: 200 ft 

Genoa: 5489 sqft 

Gennaker: 11840 sqft 

Solent: 3552 sqft 

Grot: 7750 sqft 

Sail area upwind: 13240 sqft 

The yacht is designed with attention for the most demanding 

clients. A customized flybridge provides Jacuzzi, two navigation 

stations, big dining area and lounging chairs. 

Ultimate 165 is a perfect solution for the ones who appreciate 

active lifestyle on board. Two aft garages are equipped with 

the latest and greatest toys ensuring lot of entertainment 

during the cruise. Large tenders, 2 jet skis, 2 stand up jet 

skis, 4 sea bobs, diving equipment for 8 guests, laser boat 

and a wide selection of inflatable toys will make each cruise a 

real pleasure for the whole family. 

Moreover, the yacht's main deck accommodates a VIP suite 

and a study room or 2 VIP suits depending on the layout. The 

master suite situated on the main deck features private gym 

with access to a spacious front terrace accessible also from 

the slides. 

The Sunreef 165 Ultimate is created for those who expect 

safe and fast sailing adventure with 25 knots as foreseen 

max speed on sails, with a total sail upwind area of 13,240 ft. 

www.sunreef-yachts.com 


VICTORIA'S 

SECRET 

FASHION SHOW 

By Samantha Ramos 

Photography by Thomas Concordia & Dimitrios Kambouris 

Everyone loves fashions shows; the image 

of seeing new designs coupled with high energy 

music gives us unlimited ideas, of what 

could be heading towards our closets in the 

near future. Especially if you happen to be 

at this year’s Victoria’s Secret fashion Show. 

This year's fashion show will include worldfamous 

Victoria's Secret Angels Adriana 

Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, Lily Aldridge, 

Candice Swanepoel, Lindsay Ellingson, 

Karlie Kloss, Doutzen Kroes, Behati Prinsloo 

andother Victoria’s Secret Angels were the 

stars in the Victoria’s Secret lingerie runway 

show. Each one of the spectacular pieces 

within the collection suggests unforgettable 

moments that combine femininity, strength, 

and the glamour. 

The lingerie runway show included pink carpet 

interviews, model profiles and a behindthe-scenes 

look at the making of the world's 

most celebrated fashion show. 

Candice Swanepoel walked the runway 

wearing the $10 million Royal Fantasy Bra, 

designed exclusively for Victoria's Secret 

by world-renowned jeweler Mouawad. The 

one-of-a-kind Dream Angels Demi Bra and 

matching belt will be worn on the runway 

in homage to Victoria's Secret heritage. The 

set is adorned with more than 4,200 rubies, 

blue and yellow sapphires and diamonds 

hand-set in 18-karat gold, and boasts a 

52-karat pear-shaped ruby drop centerpiece. 

Taking a year for planning and development, 

including the use of designers, embroiderers, 

prop makers and more; was no small 

feat. So, unless you have been living in another 

universe, you wouldn't have missed 

one of the biggest nights in fashion. 

A trendy fresh collection that tells a story 

of great moments in her life. This year’s 

Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show inspired 

each of us with passion and desire for each 

woman that shows her strength of character 

through her own image. 


Barbara Fialho and Jessica Hart backstage 

Rich Wolf 

Nigel Barker and Estelle 

Johannes Huebl and Olivia Palermo 

Stephen Dorff and Michael Bay 

Singer Ciara Jamie Chung Alicia Quarles 



Victoria's Secret 

Fashion Show 


Enchanting 

bsessionBy Norah Edward 

Jewelry has been an important part of human life and especially 

very important for women. It is thought to be the most precious 

thing for women. Jewelry is made of a lot of dissimilar valuable 

metals that are found were rare in this world. More the metal is 

valuable more its jewelry is worth. It has been desire of everyone 

to have the most expensive jewelry but this is not possible. Most of 

the designers make too much expensive jewelry but others make 

more expensive than they had made. 

Platinum jewelry is also one of the kinds of jewelry 

that are thought to be very expensive. Sometimes 

platinum jewelry pieces are said to so 

valuable that they cannot be bought by giving 

money. These types of platinum jewelry pieces are called master 

pieces and are used to gift them to some very special personality. 

That might be some well renounced celebrity or some 

person that has done incredible work. 

that is also very smart and adorable. It has 

the same grace as any other platinum jewelry 

but the difference lie in the type of material 

that has been used in the designing of that 

jewelry. 

As the jewelry piece has pure amount of 

platinum more expensive it will be. Platinum 

jewelry has been in fashion from a very long 

time and will remain in fashion because of its 

uniqueness that attracts everyone towards it. 

Many jewelry designers only work on platinum 

jewelry and are much renowned for making some marvelous 

masterpieces. 

Platinum jewelry is considered 

to be very elegant and exclusive 

when compared to any other type 

of jewelry. Its natural colour is so 

attractive that it needs no extra 

finish or painting it. Once a professional 

jewelry maker work on 

platinum jewelry and finishes the 

product then it is a very fine piece 

of jewelry. This is the only reason 

that platinum jewelry is not so 

common and it is seen in special 

classes of society. This is not the 

case that platinum jewelry is not at all affordable but the common 

people are not so interested in buying it. 

People with special taste for jewelry like platinum jewelry and 

they also tell their jewelry designers that what type of jewelry 

piece they want. Platinum jewelry is not designed alone it is 

also designed by adding some other precious metals like white 

gold or silver to add up some extra beauty. This is done to 

lower the cost of platinum jewelry as other precious metals are 

cheaper then platinum. Also these metals provide some extra 

glow and attraction to platinum jewelry. The combination of 

platinum jewelry and diamonds is thought to be the best combination 

in jewelry. Whenever platinum is ornamented with the 

help of diamonds its grace is amazing and it is so eye catching 

that people cannot resist its beauty. 

The cost of these types of jewelry is also very high but when 

it comes to getting something you like, then everyone is ready 

to spend money. Cheaper platinum jewelry is also designed 


Endless 

Motionby 

Lina Lasalle 

customers and friends. I’m very proud of our team and customers. 

They have allowed ZEMgear to win and be nominated in 

both 2011 and 2012 including the 3M IN-NEW-VATION award 

and FINALIST of the 2012 ISPO Brand New award; by offering a 

product for every barefoot lifestyle, from sports to the comforts 

of home. 

Who is Christina Bracken 

CB: I’m an highly energetic person who enjoys activities and 

love what I do. I was born in Germany and now living in Miami. 

This has allowed me to do even more due to its year round 

weather. I’m a mother of an amazing, beautiful and smart 21 old 

young daughter, along with my three dogs (2 chocolate labs, 1 

German shorthaired pointer) and I’m married to the most fabulous 

man in the world. 

You are an extreme player, what would be your daily routine. 

CB: I like to start my mornings off with some exercise, be it 

karate, Yoga, a gym work out or a run with my dogs. Much of 

my time is spent traveling - visiting customers all over the world 

(we now have international distribution in Japan, Canada, Philippines, 

Australia, New Zealand, the Middle east and Panama). 

Our office in China, or traveling with sales reps in the US… 

How is it that you discovered that solution? 

CB: You can say, I’m a barefoot professional, with all the activities 

I’m involved in. Since no one is born with shoes on their feet 

it is an easy exercise to explain why and how being barefoot 

can be beneficial. Proper foot-health is key to our well being. 

When we force our feet into hard soled shoes we compromise 

our feet’s ability to function the way they were intended to work. 

We muffle proprioception and limit foot agility, balance and our 

foot muscle’s natural strength. Arches exposed to arch support 

insoles stop to function as arches and collapse since they are 

not called on to be the natural support structure they naturally 

are (you don’t see arch support structures underneath bridges 

or under church arches; they are meant to stand strong because 

they were constructed for that purpose). 

What is the future of Christina Bracken? 

My family, lots of travel ("maybe I’ll sail across the Atlantic 

again") and expanding our team, as we are incorporating topof-the–line 

systems and continue to design and deliver fun, affordable 

barefoot designs to our customers. 

When I am at home I work with my team (known as my second 

family) on sales, product development and planning the future. 

Being an active player as you are, is this how ZEMgear became to 

be? 

CB: Yes, founded in 2009 by Frank Woods and I. We’re both 

seasoned industry professionals and In collaboration with product 

designer Matt Ochipa we developed a unique line of barefoot-technology 

footwear allowing users the full benefit of proprioception, 

awareness, balance and other health benefits that 

come along with using your feet as nature intended. 

When did you start ZEMgear? 

CB: We launched the first product in November of 2009, that 

was really exciting and we received such great support from our 



Photographer: Fadil Berisha 




Styling: Sheri Hill and Kara for Serendipity Prom

Beauty's 

Only Skin Deep 

By Gina L. Battle 

If you have yet to meet the newest cast member 

of the BRAVO TV Network franchise, “The Real 

Housewives of Beverly Hills”, Season 4, which premiered 

November, 2013, then you haven't met Joyce 

Giraud. This lovely, accomplished actress, producer, 

director, and philanthropist, is a beauty queen, wife 

and mother. 

Most young girls dream of being swept off their feet, 

whisked away to adventures unknown, or daydream 

about living a glamorous lifestyle derived from Hans 

Christian Anderson fairy-tales. One would think 

Joyce is living out her childhood dreams. Oh, quite 

the contrary. In Puerto Rico, at age 16, this once 

upon a time, self proclaimed, 'dangly and awkward' 

teenager was “discovered,” plucked from obscurity 

at the drive-thru window of her fast food job at a 

KFC restaurant. 

Asked on the spot of the fast food chain if she 

wanted to be a model, Joyce was naturally hesitant. 

“I don't model. I'm too skinny.” The mans persistence 

eventually paid off. “He offered me $500 to 

come to a test shoot. I showed up with my entire 

family for protection, because I didn't know... I'd 

heard all kinds of stories about different models. 

Initially, I thought, 'No, no!' Eventually, I went with 

my mother, and my uncle, and another uncle, and 

a cousin. I was very lucky, right after that came a 

whole lot of other opportunities, and they were very 

lucrative.” Joyce was in disbelief. “I get paid to feel 

pretty. It's not so bad. Let's do this! Why not?” 

After graduating high school at 16, then paying for 

her college education with the substantial amount of 

money she made from modeling, the path actually 

started to take shape. That's when Joyce determined 

she would acquire dual Bachelor's degrees, 

acquiring them by age 19. It made perfect sense 

that taking advantage of furthering her education 

was ideal. Pursuing university degrees would undoubtedly 

have been an incredible financial burden 

on her family. “I was able to pay for school and was 

able to help my mother a little bit.” 

Never missing a beat, Joyce continued modeling 

while working in social work for a year in Puerto 

Rico. “My practice was my own, and it was beautiful. 

It was an experience that I will never forget. I 

love when people asked, 'Why did you study that 

and you're not going to work in it?' She's firm with 

her answer, “I think social work is something that I 

can use on a daily basis in general.” Joyce reiterates, 

“For me, it was such a beautiful career path and I 

have no regrets." 

After leaving her respectable practice, one thing led 

to the next and she became immersed in modeling 

reaching the pinnacle of being an international top 

model. Commercials would soon follow, 'with countless 

national and international magazine covers' and 

campaigns to her credits. 


“Life is such a gift, such a joy” 

Photographer: Siul Martinez 

Make up and Hair: Paul Anthony 

Dress: Gustavo Arango 

Accessories: David Yurman 



While on assignment on a photo shoot, she was encouraged to 

enter a pageant. Once again, she declined not realizing this would 

be a natural fit. Little did she realize that when she did agree, it 

would turn the tide, becoming the first of many pageants, and 

taking home the crown. Joyce's pageant titles/wins include: 

Aguas Buenas, Puerto Rico 

Titles: 

• Miss Mundo de Puerto Rico (1994) 

• Miss Aguas Buenas Universe (1998) 

• Miss Universe Puerto Rico (1998) (Runner-Up) 

Major Competition: 

• Miss World (1994) (Winner) 

This would certainly become the platform she needed to exercise 

her own voice, to go further, work with different charities, to ignite 

her career. Additionally, this would be the time she would also 

“discover her love for acting.” As a young child, it hadn't crossed 

her mind to act. As it happened, according to the actress, after 

the Miss Universe competition, she was called for an audition. 

The enchanting beauty queen, with a sense of humor, poking fun 

at herself, candidly revealed a story of her naivety during the first 

film audition of her career. Joyce was frequently receiving calls 

from a local director. Confiding in her mother, she asked what he 

wanted? Her mother said, “I don't know.” The beauty queen was 

unfamiliar with his request to come in to 'read'. Not realizing it 

was an audition, she thought, why would I need to prove to him 

that I can read? I am a woman holding two Bachelor's degrees! 

Does he think I can't read, just because I'm a beauty queen?” 

Nevertheless, she went – still unaware this was an audition for a 

part in a film. As it happened, she was touched by the character's 

predicament, which made her cry at just the right time. Cut! You 

have the part.” said the director. “What?!” Joyce couldn't believe 

it. Understandably, as an untrained actress she was overwhelmed 

and excited, and asked the director for his help and guidance. He 

told her all she had to do was learn her lines; she wouldn't need 

his help. He told her that she would do great! “Because other 

people believed in me, I felt I would be able to deliver.” Joyce 

said. Well, it shouldn't be a surprise to read, Joyce won an award 

for that performance. At that point she was hooked. “I think I like 

this acting thing.” 

Of course, this would catapult her into Hollywood where she 

would have opportunities to pursue her new passion. Again, Joyce 

felt blessed. There was never any doubt, she would immerse 

herself in studying acting – given the chance. It would prove to 

be a key component before making the final decision to go all the 

way to becoming a Hollywood actress. This meant taking every 

style of acting class available. That doesn't come cheap. So how 

would she accomplish this goal? An opportunity, similar to a 'Star 

Search' show, in Hawaii, came up that her agency told her about, 

that would provide either great exposure or the top prize. Either 

way it would be a win-win. Was there any doubt, Joyce did win 

the substantial top prize. Now with her golden ticket in hand, off 

to Hollywood she went to take the desired classes and has been a 

working-actress, working along side great actors ever since. “I'm 

very happy being a working actress.” 

Some of the roles from television and film include, but are not 

limited to, “Baywatch: Hawaii” with David Hasselhoff, Tyler Perry's 

“House of Payne,” she's had a role in David Fincher's THE GIRL 

WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO/Daniel Craig & Mara Rooney, MISS 

CASTAWAY/Eric Roberts & Michael Jackson, Disney's “The Suite 

Life of Zach & Cody,” playing Matt LeBlanc's girlfriend on the show 

“Joey.” 

Joyce Giraud, is just like any of us 'real housewives of... (name 

your city),' with a few perks. She's beautiful, intelligent, entrepreneurial, 

spiritually grounded, and she's a multifaceted talent. As 

an example, Joyce and her husband, Michael O'Hoven, Academy 

Award nominated producer, named Hollywood's “Most Prolific 

Producer, by 'Hollywood Reporter', share portions of their life 

together on the TV screen in front of millions of viewers. In addition, 

they work side-by-side on various entertainment projects. 

She's the lead in the NBC faux-reality scripted drama “Siberia” 

Season 1, which they both produced. 

When asked if being together constantly is ever a concern of 

hers, Joyce doesn't hesitate to say, “I am happily married to my 

soul-mate. We love being together.” Considering all of Joyce's 

accolades, gushingly, she concedes her most impressive accomplishment 

is having met and married “the man of my dreams, and 

our two beautiful children, so I'm a mommy and that's the most 

important thing.” Joyce doesn't seem to have any trouble balancing 

her career and family. They love and support each others 

desires and life's purpose. They take their little boys Leonardo (4) 

and Valentino (2) everywhere, each gathering one. 

Reflecting back on her life, Joyce has to pinch herself and says, 

“Thank you, God!” because she has such a blessed life. As a 

result, of the happiness she exudes, some people wonder if the 

happiness is real or faux. Can it be that Joyce is just enjoying 

the benefits of sharing and loving? “If you're happy, you don't let 

negativity bring you down. When you look around at the rest of 

the world, where there might be plenty to complain about, our 

complaining might just be petty. Why should I complain? I just 

thank God and pray that I can continue to be happy. If you're 

happy, you want others to be happy too.” 

Joyce is proud of the rise to her successes. “At this stage of my 

life, I feel the most fulfilled.” No one can argue, there's no fear 

when it comes to challenging herself to exceed expectations. 

Joyce is a mentor, who currently utilizes her expertise in beauty 

pageants to cultivate leadership for young women globally. 

Unfortunately, Joyce was teased a lot during her formidable teen 

years. Perhaps, that's where she derived some of her vision of 

“giving a voice to the voiceless." This progressive forward-thinking 

lady has managed to change the face of beauty pageants with 

the inception of the international pageant Queen of the Universe. 

Joyce is elated to say prior contestants call her to share they've 

opened up their individual charities. 

Are you wondering how this pageant differs from others? Queen 

of the Universe, 'provides women across the globe, regardless of 

marital status, motherhood or sexuality, with an opportunity to 

promote their charity work while providing a platform to materialize 

their dreams' – just like the creator of the organization has 

done for herself. “One very important thing to know is that the 

women must have a charity based platform. In my case, mine is 

UNESCO. United Nations Education Science & Culture Organization 

(UNESCO) promotes education within impoverished areas. 

I'm on a show ('RHOBH'), that besides all the drama, I'm able to 

have a voice to promote our children's charity. 


“My career is just the cherry & 

icing on top of a cupcake” 

Photographer: Fadil Berisha 




Styling: Sheri Hill and Kara for Serendipity Prom 


When asked about how Joyce feels about the other cast 

members' of the 'RHOBH'? Joyce was surprised after meeting 

some of the cast members. “I had no idea what the rest would 

be like. Kyle, I really like her; she's a good dear friend. As an 

audience member, I didn't think I was going to like Kyle. But, 

she's a very sweet girl. Lisa is great. Kim is great. However, 

my relationship with some of the others ladies... I admire all of 

the ladies, they’re all good at what they do. They're all strong 

women, and I admire strong women in general. I don't admire 

when people lie. I don't like arrogance and trying to act as 

though they're above the rest of the world. So unfortunately, 

these are qualities I've seen in some of the other ladies I didn't 

mention. I won't name names. I can't lie to the audience and 

say 'Oh yeah, she's wonderful. Some of these ladies I thought I 

would like, as an audience member. It was a tough reality when 

they were entirely different from what I watched on the show. 

Honesty is what you get with this RHOBH cast member. 

Naturally, it is ones inclination to suggest such a success story 

can only happen to a select few. One might think, it's not something 

that is destined to happen to the normal everyday person. 

Joyce would counter that with “We must try our hardest.” She 

goes on to say, "Have I told the inner self that I love her today? 

If the answer is yes, than I'm okay. If the answer is no, then I 

have to fix my life.” 

Advice from Joyce: 

A. Study your craft 

B. Remain true to yourself – you're you! 

C. Do what you love, and you will never work a day in your life. 

You can connect with Joyce Giruad via Twitter @joycegiraud; 

Instagram: joycejoycedgiraud; FB Fan Page: joycegiraud.com. 

Sorry, but as of this printing her website is under construction: 

www.joycegiraud.com 


Aaron Short 

Making the connection 

By Dan Myricks 

In a world where anyone with a 

computer and a MySpace account 

can record songs, post 

them to the Internet and then 

call themself a songwriter, the 

experienced songwriter and 

performer stands out, and is of 

more value than ever. Aaron 

Short is that kind of songwriter 

and performer. Whether playing 

in his native England, playing 

a headlining, sold-out show 

in Chicago, or landing his songs 

in adverts and TV shows, Short 

has an ability to connect with 

audiences through the quality 

and genuineness of his songs, 

an ability that he has honed and 

developed over time, during the 

course of his life long love affair 

with music. 

When performing as part of a 

duo, trio or quartet, Short knows 

that there is no substitute for 

going out and paying one’s dues, 

and that accounts for his tremendous 

work ethic, one where 

he’s played five nights a week to 

audiences all over Europe, taught 

music and worked with some of 

the best musicians in London. 

Growing up in Suffolk, England, 

Aaron began playing piano at 

the age of 7, and in his teens, he 

fell in love with Britpop, began 

playing guitar, joined a band and 

began writing songs. His influences 

were classic left-of-center 

singer/songwriter; Tom Waits, 

Leonard Cohen and later, Damien 

Rice. “I’ve always been into the 

lyrical and the gutsy, the artists 

who aren’t afraid to be deep,” he 

says. 

Moving to London at the age 

of 21, Short began to play anywhere 

he could, continually 

refining his songs. “When I first 

began songwriting, I wrote just 

to write,” he remembers. “But I 

soon began working to put my 

own experience in my songs, and 

I found ways to make my personal 

experience strike a chord with 

the audience.” 

That continual willingness to refine 

and improve upon his songs 

has paid dividends. In 2005, Aaron 

released his first EP, People 

Make Mistakes, whose title track 

was used in the American independent 

film, “Tomorrow Is Today,” 

and another song from the 

EP, “If This Is Love” was featured 

on a Channel 4 Slash music TV 

advert campaign. The exposure 

allowed Aaron to expand his following 

– selling some downloads 

via iTunes and increasing his live 

draw in London and, of all places, 

Chicago, Illinois, where his music 

received some exposure and allowed 

him to perform at his own 

headlining gig. 

Now Aaron has completed his 

debut album, recording with Ian 

Grimble, who has worked with 

Manic Street Preachers and Bernard 

Butler. The songs he’s written 

and recorded thus far represent 

another breakthrough for 

Short – “Special” is a moving and 

plaintive declaration of love and 

devotion, one that is moving for 

both its simplicity and wonderful 

arrangement, where the acoustic 

guitar strums, the electric guitar 

chimes and the strings provide 

supple and shimmering support. 

“Lie To Me” is already a favorite 

of Aaron’s; a plaintive tale of 

love’s struggles, the song shines 

a spotlight on the hushed intimacy 

of his voice, an instrument 

that movingly conveys the ache 

of his lyrics. 

Aaron has now relocated to New 

York in order to gain new experiences 

and reach out to new 

listeners. With each show, he has 

a clear intent: “I want someone 

to listen to my music and have 

it cause the same effect that 

the artists I love have had on 

me, and I want my audience to 

say, ‘I get him – I’m pleased that 

someone has been through what 

I’ve been through.’” That may 

seem like a simple goal – but 

it’s only the songwriter with the 

skill and experience at his craft 

that can pull that off. And whether 

through his new music, or 

through his shows, Aaron Short 

continues to prove that he’s a 

singer, songwriter and performer 

who belongs in that rarified echelon. 

The album ‘Ten songs about 

truth, lies and other things’ is 

available now. 


Photography by Duc Nguyen 


Life 

& 

Love 

MusicBy Lina LaSalle 

An undeniably-stunning woman and an explosively entertaining 

vocalists, who has been dubbed Indie-pop’s “It Girl,” Darnaa, 

originally from Sacramento, California. Darnaa now resides in 

“The Big Apple” and is currently touring in Florida. 

Having the chance to sit down with Darnaa, between her tour 

to speak about her inspirations and new release. 



What was the first tune you ever learned? 

Everyone always learns the Happy Birthday song first…lol 

When did you decide you wanted music to be your career? 

I think I've always known. I watched a lot of music videos as 

a child, and would always think to myself…I would love to do 

that! 

One of your top performing songs “Runaway,” hits home. What 

was the feeling behind the song? 

"Runaway" is a song about frustration, anger, and pain. The 

music video was controversial, but I wanted to share this story 

to get through to people and hopefully, inspire them. 

process is when everything comes together and you are able 

to create something that can impact others. 

What inspiration was involved in the creation of your new single? 

At first I was unsure about the direction I wanted to go, but 

I knew I wanted to do something with a fun sound that was 

different from my other work. I think we have accomplished 

that with "Cowgirl." 

Do you try to give messages in your songs? 

Yes, all of my songs have messages, because, if we can get 

others to start thinking and talking about the important issues, 

while they are being entertained, then maybe we can 

eventually inspire a change. 

Being loved by so many fans, how does that make you feel? 

I don't know if I'm quite there yet, but it's a surreal feeling 

how many people love the music and can relate to my songs. 

What’s one thing that always brings you a smile? 

My assistant always puts a smile on my face. She's so 

funny.. :) 

You’re very fashion minded, any designers you like? 

My style changes depending on my mood. I love to shop in 

the village in NYC. One of my main costume stores is Patricia 

Fields. I also love Betty Page! 

How does Darnaa Relax? 

Laying in my bed and watching Lifetime movies. 

When not performing, what activities do you like to do the most? 

I try to take care of myself during my down time. I love to go 

shopping, go to the spa and get massages. :) 

How do you balance your music with other obligations? 

I try to spread out my time and not be in the studio every day. 

Balance is important for the creative process. 

Who are your top five favorite musicians? 

Madonna, 112, Chris Brown, Lady Gaga, Aaliyah 

Any loves, other than music? 

I have always loved running! When I was a child, I thought I 

was a Cheetah. I'm also a big fan of roller coasters. 

Is there anything you would like to share with your fans about 

you? 

Don't be a follower. Be yourself. Life opens up when you do. 

You’re a big advocate against child abuse, what advice would you 

give to someone? 

Don't be afraid to talk to someone and get help. It's important 

to know that you don’t have to struggle alone. 

Coming from NY how are you enjoying your time here in Florida? 

Florida is gorgeous! I would love to eventually have a 

home here. Especially Miami; the shopping in South Beach 

is amazing. 

Where do you draw inspiration from and what’s your favorite part 

about the process? 

I draw inspiration from my real life; past events, people, and 

things I want to do and see in the future. The best part of the 


Having put on wonderful performances in Orlando, Tampa and 

Miami, what destinations are next? 

Hopefully all over the world! 

When can we expect to see you again in Florida? 

I will be opening for Chris Brown & T.I. in Miami and Orlando 

on January 18th & 19th and will be releasing "Cowgirl" on 

January 28th. 

What’s next for Darnaa? 

You will have to wait and see!


VIVAITALIA! 

By Moony Mann 

As you may know by reading my articles, I am one of SWFL’s 

busiest live music entertainers. You may have even seen me 

perform at any number of venues in the area as I work mostly 

in upscale restaurants. For the past few months, every Friday 

and Saturday from 4pm to 6pm I have been performing as a 

soloist or with a guest artist as a duo at BiCE Restorante in 

Naples. I have become familiar with the management, staff 

and menu at BiCE and I thought I would take this opportunity 

to share with you what I have discovered about the food, wine, 

music and people who run the top rated Italian restaurant in 

Naples. 

First, let me tell you about the food. It is no wonder BiCE brings 

the most authentic Italian cuisine to the table. They use the 

freshest ingredients and the award winning kitchen is guided 

by the experience of the amazing Chef Massimo Pisati. The 

Northern Italian based menu is extensive and consistently 

pleases the traditional Italian cuisine diner as well as satisfying 

a more international palate like mine. I would like to recommend 

a particular dish but I can’t seem to focus on just one 

as every meal I have eaten at BiCE has been superb. The wine 

menu, as one would expect at a world class Italian restaurant, 

has something for every casual wine drinker to enjoy as well 

as the connoisseur. BiCE also features a full liquor bar and has 

one of the best happy hour deals out there. 


BiCE holds a special place in my heart as a musician because 

they are one of the only places left in SWFL that feature 100% 

LIVE music entertainment on a regular basis. There are no 

soulless “backing track” acts... it’s all LIVE as one would expect 

from a better restaurant. The line up this season includes 

some of the finest musicians anywhere. Classical violinist Oleg 

Timuta treats guests at BiCE several times each week as well 

as the amazing pianist Daniel Stefanko. One of my favorite 

local artists, Andy Wahlberg, performs on Wednesdays and as 

I mentioned, yours truly on Fridays and Saturdays. I don’t understand 

how I ended up working among these musical giants 

but I’m glad the guests at BiCE like what I do. If you have not 

gone to listen to Oleg, Daniel or Andy... GO! It’s an inexpensive 

way to hear some of the best LIVE music anywhere on the 

planet. 

The staff at BiCE under the supervision of General Manager 

Luca DiFalco (pictured) is an amazingly efficient team that 

compliments the BiCE reputation. DiFalco was nice enough 

to spend a few moments sitting with me for an interview at 

the popular restaurant and here is what I learned about him. 

He always dreamed of being the manager of a grande Hotel 

and thought the restaurant business would be a great place 

to start. 

When the opportunity presented itself he started his career 

in Sardinia and Northern Italy where he acquired the basis for 

the skill set he has now. He enjoyed four years working at 

the Miami BiCE before coming to SWFL. I learned that after 

his move to the Naples BiCE in 2008, DiFalco was also tasked 

with training managers for other BiCE locations around the 

world. With an education and work background in hotel and 

restaurant management, and running one of the most successful 

food and beverage businesses in the area. I’d say he’s 

well on his way to realizing those dreams. DiFalco makes good 

use of his extensive experience in restaurant management to 

enhance the fine traditions of the BiCE Group. I think they are 

lucky to have him... 

A recent expansion project that now makes BiCE one of the 

largest restaurants in the area is definitely something for Luca 

and his staff to be proud of. The interior is comfortable and 

spacious and the outdoor tables are charming and have picturesque 

downtown Naples as a backdrop (corner of 5th Avenue 

South and 3rd Street South). In the event of less than perfect 

weather all the exterior dining areas can be enclosed in mere 

moments. The bartenders are friendly and generous, the wait 

staff is attentive and courteous, the music is eclectic and fun, 

the atmosphere is perfect and... the food?... Magnifico! 

I encourage you to take a look at the menus, history and philosophy 

of BiCE online. For more information about or to contact 

BiCE Restorante of Naples and The BiCE Group visit: 

www.bicegroup.com 

BiCE Restorante is located at 300 5th Avenue 

South - Naples, FL Reservations: 239.262.4044

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SereneDesignBy Ann Gordon 

Photography Burt Kellerman 

Beginning to End Interiors is a local interior design company 

and should be your first choice when making plans 

for remodeling or designing your home. Owned and operated 

by Alan Gravley and Stan Writesel, the company 

offers exclusive products and services in the areas of design 

consultation, drapery, upholstery, blinds and installation, 

and they have the resources to guide you through 

any remodel project from “Beginning to End.” 

Beginning to End appeals to a broad range of clients, both 

local and national, and has the professional experience 

and knowledge of the latest trends in design such as the 

Dream Draper Software, a computer program that allows 

you to see what your room or space will look like with 

furniture and window treatments at the click of a mouse. 

This exclusive feature is rewarding for clients who prefer 

a customized approach for their own unique taste. When 

attempting to design a room or space, it helps to consult 

a professional about the right textiles, colors and furnishings 

that work best for your lifestyle and budget. 


Alan knows the importance 

of using the right 

colors and textures to create 

the perfect ambiance 

for any room, whether it 

is contemporary, traditional, 

or something in 

between. “Color placement 

is especially important 

when using vibrant 

colors,” says Alan. 

Alan and Stan are 

members of the 

Interior Design Society 

(IDS), and participated in 

the IDS Showhouse in 2006. Alan is certified with Lurton 

in selling, designing, programming and installation of motorized 

drapery and window shade systems. From drapery 

and blind motorization to Apps on your smart 

phone that monitor your lights or blinds, Beginning 

to End offers it all. 

As a Hunter Douglas Priority Dealer, Beginning 

to End has full-size displays of the newest blind 

products to touch, feel and operate to help their 

consumers make the right choice that best fits 

their needs. 

Stan is a Certified Workroom Professional with 

the Window Coverings Association of America 

(WCAA). With their own full-service drapery and 

upholstery workroom, Beginning to End takes 

great pride in producing high quality products 

using the latest techniques. 

Beginning to End is expanding their current space 

from 1,700 sq ft to 3,400 sq ft, allowing them to 

provide a showroom for custom furniture, lighting 

and accessories, and they will be displaying 

artwork from local Sarasota artists. They also 

have a full fabric showroom including Candice Olson, 

Barbara Berry, Lilly Pulitzer, Highland Court, 

Ralph Lauren, Duralee, Fabricut and many more 

fabrics. 

Alan and Stan express their gratitude to their employees, 

Cat Hickman and Michele Kissen, for all 

of their talents and dedication. 

Visit their website at www.b2end.com to learn 

more about Beginning to End and to contact Alan 

and Stan for all your interior design needs. 

Beginning To End Interiors 

4453-C Ashton Road 

Sarasota, FL 34233 

941-924-4481 


Energy-Efficient 


Solutions 

For many people, a trip down the lighting aisle can be an overwhelming 

experience, especially when considering the many 

energy-efficient lighting options available. Whether looking at 

light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs or compact fluorescent technology 

(CFL) bulbs, there are some factors you should think about 

before making a purchase. 

Recent studies have found that most homeowners aren’t ready to 

make the leap to newer energy-efficient lighting solutions, such as 

LED and CFL. But those who are making the switch from incandescent 

bulbs to GE Energy-Efficient Soft White bulbs are doing 

so at a rate of two-to-one, compared to CFL bulbs. 

“We understand that consumers are overwhelmed by all of the 

changes in the lighting aisle, and whatever their lighting preference, 

we have reliable lighting options for them,” says John 

Strainic, general manager, Consumer Lighting for GE in North 

America. “For consumers who still want an incandescent-like 

bulb, our incandescent isn’t gone—it’s more energy efficient. Our 

Energy-Efficient Soft White bulb provides a warm, cozy light and 

dimming capabilities, but saves energy and meets federal brightness 

requirements.” 

Small upgrades equal big savings 

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, lighting 

consumes up to 17 percent of a home’s overall energy usage. 

With an annual energy savings of $2.05 per bulb, a household 

that replaces forty 60-watt incandescent bulbs with 43-watt 

Energy-Efficient Soft White bulbs could save more than $80 a year 

based on 3 hours use per day and an 11c/kWh electricity rate. 


“Our newer lighting technologies, such as GE’s Energy-Efficient 

Soft White bulbs, are specially engineered to provide the light 

consumers love the same way it was delivered more than a century 

ago,” said Strainic. “But today we can meet federal brightness 

requirements without as much wasted energy.” 

Other energy-saving options 

One popular option in energy-efficient lighting is the LED bulb. 

Though the price for this option can be higher than others, 

experts believe that prices should decrease as LED technology 

evolves, allowing for a broader mass market appeal. Another 

more energy-efficient lighting option is CFL bulb technology, 

which has been in the market now for more than 30 years and 

has greatly improved to mirror the performance of a traditional 

incandescent light. 

As new energy-efficiency standards are set to take place Jan. 1, 

2014, consumers will choose between these more energy-efficient 

lighting options, including Energy-Efficient Soft White, or halogen 

technology, CFL or LED bulbs. Consumers will still be able to 

find a limited supply of incandescent bulbs at some retailers until 

inventory is gone. 

For those wishing to save money on energy bills, having an 

understanding of the different energy-efficient lighting options 

available can help to make an informed purchasing decision. 

www.gelighting.com/EESW

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Simple Tips 

Keep Clutter at Bay 

If yours is like the average American household, you have 

amassed a collection of unorganized stuff, tucked away in piles or 

behind closed doors to deal with “later.” Establishing good organization 

habits and creating proper storage areas can transform 

that chaos now and set the stage for less mess in the future. 

Following are some simple tips to help make your apartment or 

home clutter free, and get you started with some new habits to 

keep disorganization at bay. 

1. Don’t buy things you don’t need. Living clutter free gives you a 

better perspective of what you have, so you don’t make unnecessary 

purchases, which can be costly and only add to the clutter 

in your home. Be wary of accumulating “aspirational clutter” — 

things you plan to use someday, but never quite get around to using. 

Though tempting, also avoid freebies and gifts with purchase 

that you don’t really need. Remember, clutter creates more clutter. 

2. Create zones. In other words, make a space for everything. 

Your entryway can become a repository, so sort mail immediately 

(recycle what you don’t need), hang coats rather than draping 

them on available furniture and use a shoe bin or tray to organize 

pairs you wear frequently. 


In the bedroom closet, use vertical space to create additional storage 

with organizing units. Wood organizers such as ClosetMaid 

Impressions offer an attractive way to de-clutter with kits and 

add-on pieces that let you create a customized storage system 

for your personal needs. A second shoe rack in the closet helps 

organize shoes you wear less often. In the living room, create 

specific storage spaces for remotes, blankets, gaming equipment 

and other items using storage bins and containers that complement 

your décor. 

3. Reset yourself. Every night before you turn in, take a few moments 

to put things where they belong. This gives you a fresh, 

stress-free start in the morning and peace of mind knowing where 

everything you need is located. 

4. Turn clutter into cash. Motivate yourself to de-clutter by making 

money on your unused and unwanted possessions. You can 

sell gently used clothing to local consignment shops, or donate 

to Goodwill, Salvation Army or another nonprofit organization. 

Remember to get a donation receipt, because you may be able to 

take a tax deduction. 

www.ClosetMaid.com 


Providing "Full Time" 

Award Winning 

Real Estate Service 

to discerning 

sellers and buyers. 

Chip Krespach, Realtor ® 

Let me show you the difference. 

Call for a confidential, no obligation consultation today. 

www.LuxuryHomesSWFL.com 

Chip@LuxuryHomesSWFL.com 

Direct (239) 823-6768

Luxury Spa Opening 

Ancient practices and exotic techniques are complimented by 

contemporary equipment and state-of-the-art technology. All services 

are accompanied by complimentary use of the spa’s steam 

shower and sauna. 

Assuage offers all the treatments typically expected from a luxury 

spa and much more. For example, Assuage offers special medical 

treatments for pre and post surgery such as lymphatic drainage 

and post-mastectomy massage. Expectant mothers can receive a 

pre-natal massage with approval from their obstetrician. 

For the skin, special facials and peels are offered, along with 

cellulite reduction wraps and detoxifying body treatments. A full 

line of injectables, such as Botox® and Radiesse®, is available 

and administered by Dr. Prendiville. Assuage also offers an extensive 

line of exclusive spa accessories and make-up. 

Assuage Spa, the new medical spa that brings exotic relaxation 

treatments from around the globe to Southwest Florida, celebrated 

its grand opening December 12 with a ribbon cutting and 

open house for about 100 guests. 

“Guests feel the difference the moment they enter Assuage,” 

said Tehjan Prendiville. “The ambiance of the interior has been 

tailored to set the stage for pleasure. The colors are vibrant with 

a distinct Moroccan flair. The interior design is a truly different 

and totally relaxing spa experience.” 

For more information, call 239-333-1450. 

Assuage is located at 9407 Cypress Lake Drive, Suite C, adjacent 

to the South Fort Myers office of facial plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen 

Prendiville, who serves as medical director of the spa. “Assuage,” 

which means to soothe or satisfy, was created by Tehjan 

Prendiville, a registered nurse and the wife of Dr. Prendiville. 

Guests sampled platters of Mediterranean cuisine during the 

grand opening celebration, which included chair massages and 

exotic drinks served both inside the intimate spa and outside 

under a Moroccan tent with relaxing imported furnishings. 

“We wanted to give our guests a sampling of what Assuage is all 

about – a global fusion of hand-selected treatments from around 

the world,” said Tehjan Prendiville. 

Tehjan Prendiville has worked in the field of mental health for 26 

years and has traveled the world with a special interest in cultural 

healing. Assuage Spa was created to incorporate these age-old 

holistic approaches acquired on her travels. 

By Susan Bennett 

“Our mission is to enhance and enrich overall health by taking a 

holistic approach to the entire individual, including mind, body 

and spirit,” she said. 

www.assuagecenters.com 


Lisa Freidus of Gateway and Mari Bowlin of North Fort Myers 

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

Susan Bennett, Alice Manuelidis, Brittney Pitts & Tehjan Prendiville 

Vicki Sura, Mark Schafe of Cape Coral & Joan Baugher 

Darla Jean Griffiths of Cape Coral, Diana Willis, Gail Markham 

and Kelly Hanley 

Dr. Stephen Prendiville and Tehjan Prendiville 

Luis Insignares, Andrea Martin, Rusty Phillips, Tehjan Prendiville 

and Dwayne Bergmann 

Kathleen Wolter and Amy Griffy 


Lift Sagging 

Skin 

New Solution 

Photo courtesy of Thinkstock 

The beauty about getting older is you finally start to loosen up. You 

tend to worry a little less, laugh a little more and melt into who 

you’ve become and the life you’ve created. 

But, unfortunately, your skin also seems to take on a lax attitude. 

You – and your skin – are not alone. In fact, 3 of 5 people are 

bothered by sagging skin, and, according to a consumer survey by 

the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, nearly 75 percent 

have considered a cosmetic procedure to tighten up or smooth 

things out. What’s more, statistics from the American Society for 

Aesthetic Plastic Surgery show that facelifts seem to be making a 

comeback. And while surgery tends to be a last resort, many mistakenly 

believe it’s the only solution available for lifting, especially 

for stubborn areas such as the gobbler under the chin or the loose 

rings on the neck. 

Thankfully, science has decided to challenge that belief and serve 

up the skin its overdue non-surgical lift by way of sound. 

Yes, S-O-U-N-D. 

Sound Skin 

To be clear, this is sound that can’t be heard by the human ear. This 

is ultrasound; sound that occurs at frequencies only dolphins and 

bats can detect. 

In fact, this is the same ultrasound used to produce baby sonograms. 

In sonogram imaging, the sound wave energy is low with shortened 

pulses. To show a sharp picture, these pulsed waves create 

a tight web of visual details as they bounce off the body’s internal 

structures. To actually treat and stimulate a natural lift in the skin, 

however, the sound wave juice gets bumped up and the pulses 

are prolonged and converged for deeper, more precise penetration. 

This allows the energy to narrow in on the skin’s core fabric, including 

the same collagen-rich fibrous layer typically treated during a 

facelift. 


The ultrasound lift 

The process in which ultrasound makes the lifting magic happen is 

nice to know, but what really matters is the validated science behind 

it. For the first time, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 

has cleared a face-and-neck ultrasound procedure that is clinically 

proven to non-invasively lift skin on the neck, under the chin and 

above the brow. The procedure, Ultherapy, not only measurably 

lifts skin, it does so without any chemical or foreign substances. 

Instead, it relies on the body’s own healing process to gradually lift 

the skin over the course of three to six months. 

What’s unique about Ultherapy ultrasound is it relies on both the 

shorter and longer ultrasound pulses to first image and then treat 

the skin. Imaging, of course, allows practitioners to broadly see the 

different layers of the skin to be treated. For the treatment itself, 

the concentrated sound wave energy encourages select cells in the 

skin’s foundation to initiate the production of new collagen and 

elastin. In turn, the skin lifts and tightens over time. And, because 

the ultrasound energy funnels-in to focus on deeper face and neck 

tissue – it’s diluted at more superficial layers – the skin’s surface 

isn’t affected and, after 60 minutes, most patients are able to walk 

away ready to go about their day*. 

It’s not surgery, it’s sound. 

The scalpel is still the weapon of choice for dramatic facelifts. But, 

for a more natural and gradual lift, plastic surgeons and other cosmetic 

physicians now have a new tool in their treatment arsenals: 

Ultherapy ultrasound. 

*As with any medical procedure, there are possible risks and variation in outcomes associated with the 

Ultherapy treatment. It is important to discuss the Ultherapy treatment with a healthcare professional to 

fully understand the treatment and risks. 1002964A 

www.lift.Ultherapy.com 


Skin 

ResolutionsBy 

Brooke Hudis 

The New Year is the perfect time to shake up your 

skin care routine. Swapping out your daily cleanser, 

toner, spot treatment or moisturizer for products 

that are targeted for your skin concerns could be 

the remedy you need to maintain that radiant glow 

all year long. 

Recharge your spirits (and pores!) with a new regime 

& tips from the experts with ULTA Beauty. To 

focus on the importance of great skincare by offering 

exclusive tips from our experts for the New Year 

from top beauty industry experts. 

6 Skin Resolutions for Beautiful Skin: 

1. Enjoy Your Coffee. Studies show that coffee beans & caffeine can 

produce elastin (aka tight skin). A quick skin tightening tip that may 

surprise you! If only spin class could be this easy & sweat free: 

• Bliss – Like a spinning class for your not-so-skinny cells, bliss's topical 

treatments FatGirlScrub and FatGirlSlim targets problem areas by 

energizing lethargic lipids to let loose and go 'lymphatic'. 

2. Stay Hydrated. Skin thirsty for some moisture? Staying hydrated 

through the harsh winter months is key. Stay smooth with these featured 

products: 

• Radiant SkinCare by Benefit Set – Dull skin from daily stress? With 

this 6 step set, skin is guaranteed to be polished, cleansed & hydrated 

for travelers on the go. 

• DDF – Their simplifying elixir boosts skin's moisture barrier by 70% 

with ingredients including ficus leaf, lotus flower and red clover extracts. 

3. Thou Shall Not Pick. Spots should only be for the runway or your 

cute pup! For those with combination or breakout prone skin, ULTA 

skincare experts offer these suggestions: 

• StriVectin-EV – Their new Get Even Spot Repair has a concentrated 

formula that targets stubborn spots at the source. After 4 weeks, 

excess pigmentation diminishes and after 8 weeks, stubborn spots 

visibly lighten. 

• Philosophy – Want amplified results on skin discoloration? Look to 

the #1 professional protocol for addressing dark spots: a skin brightener 

+ a retinoid. Simply pair Philosophy's revolutionary new Miracle 

Worker Miraculous All-Over Brightener and Dark Spot Corrector 

with their best-selling Miracle Worker Miraculous Anti-Aging Retinoid 

Pads for fast, clinically-proven results. 

• Mario Badescu – Did you know that the Whitening Mask isn't only 

for discoloration? it's a great mask for overall brightening too! This 

hydrating mask will brighten uneven skin tones and gently minimize 

the look of old acne scars. Give the Whitening Mask a try! 

4. Get 8-10 Hours of Sleep a Night. Research shows cells are most 

efficient at healing during nighttime sleep. Work on cell renewal and 

say "hasta la vista" to dark under eye circles with these miracle go-to 

products: 

• bareMinerals – With their active cell renewal night serum, accelerate 

cell turnover and boost moisture levels while you sleep. Wake up 

to firm, healthy, younger-looking skin. 

• Hydroxatone – Always apply under eye products with your ring 

finger! This is your weakest finger and will ensure a gentle product 

application to the delicate, thin skin under the eyes -- applying too 

much pressure can break capillaries and even cause bruising! 

5. Prepare to Change. Your skin changes as you age and so should 

your skin care if you want to keep a youthful appearance. Be sure 

to use products that correspond with your age and skin concerns. The 

experts at Dermalogica suggest these: 

• 20s: Clean skin is the foundation of healthy skin. Perform the Dermalogica 

Double cleanse that begins with PreCleanse to lift makeup 

and oil-based debris, and follow with your favorite Dermalogica 

Cleanser for super clean skin. 

• 30s: Adding a weekly hydrating masque to your routine can dramatically 

boost radiance and reduce appearance of fine lines. 

• 40s: Keep up with your water intake to hydrate skin from the inside 

out. 

• 50s: Menopause can trigger up to a 30% reduction in collagen. 

Speak with your skin therapist about products that can help boost 

collagen production to keep skin firm. 

6. Glow as you Go. A great skin care regime need not take a long 

time. It's all about using the right products and keeping up a regular 

skin care routine. New services like Dermalogica's MicroZone treatments 

take only 20-minutes at ULTA Salons and can be adapted to 

individual needs. Try Flash Exfoliation, Lip Renewal or Eye Rescue for 

targeted solutions for immediate skin care concerns. 


Experience 

the... 

Green Market 

by Pilar Corona 

Put down the iPhones and Blackberries and stop by “The 

Alliance for the Art’s weekly GreenMarket” for a delightful 

seasonal surprise. Take a walk through the exotic 

colors and flavors of the GreenMarket and pick your deliciously 

healthy produce. Isn’t it time you too partook of 

the latest in edible trends? You are indeed what you eat: 

not just what you do; nor are you made up of the fashion 

accessories and latest technological gadgets you carry. 

Ask anyone of the vendors about the fruits, vegetables 

and produce; and you can plan your week’s meals based 

on your tasty palette. Should you be a miss as to what 

to do, simply ask the experts as they’ll be sure to offer 

their wise advice. Frozen dinners and fast food meals 

will be an item of the past, as you embark on this new 

venture. Though be warned, it’s quite delish! 

You never know what amazing things you might find at 

the Alliance for the Art’s weekly GreenMarket located at 

10091 McGregor Blvd in Fort Myers. It is open from 9am 

until 1pm every Saturday morning. You’ll have plenty of 

time to take your newly acquired fun foods home and 

make a flavorful meal that exhilarates your taste buds. 

Should you need a change from your daily routine, this 

may be the place you need! You will see everything 

from fresh cut flowers, pottery, art, decorative gifts and 

household items. You can also buy directly from the people 

who grow, raise and farm a huge variety of organically 

grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs. You’ll be one step 

closer to a greener healthier life! What not let it be you? 

No worries, if you have children. This is a child friendly 

location and they always have activities provided specifically 

for the kids. Take a seat, relax and enjoy an organic 

meal; while you listen to the local entertainment, explore 

the current exhibit by diverse artist’s and receive 

information about upcoming cultural events. Chances 

are is that we’ll see you there! 

www.artinlee.org 


Most people prefer to stay in their 

home or apartment for as long as 

possible. The best way to make 

this a reality is to plan ahead of time to make the 

amenities in your home as safe and accessible 

as possible. It can be hard to imagine that tasks 

around the house that were once done with ease 

can one day pose a challenge. Anticipating the 

chal lenge and planning accordingly may allow you 

to remain in your home for an extended period of 

time. Often, with some minor modifications, your 

home can be adapted to help you stay as long as 

possible even with some loss of mobility. 


Home Modifications 

Living at home longer may mean renovating a home 

to make it more accessible. This can include such 

things as installing ramps to bypass stairs, building a 

bedroom on the main floor, placing grab bars in the 

shower, changing the height of kitchen countertops 

or making a bathroom safer and more accessible. 

Before you make home modifications, you should 

evaluate your current and future needs by going 

through your home room by room and answering a 

series of questions to highlight where changes might 

be made. Several checklists are available to help you 

conduct this review. The National Resource Center 

on Supportive Housing and Home Modifica tions is a 

good place to start. 

Go to the center’s website at http://www.homemods. 

org and click on the link to the “Safety Checklist and 

Assessment Instrument.” 

Getting Help 

Keeping a house running smoothly requires a lot 

of hard work. If you are no longer able to keep up 

with the demands, you may need to hire someone 

to do laundry, buy groceries, run errands, clean the 

house or perform any necessary repairs. Those who 

are unable to perform Activities of Daily Living 

(ADLs), such as getting in and out of bed, walking, 

bathing, dressing, and eating, can often continue to 

stay at home with outside help. There are a number 

of services that can be brought in to assist with ADLs 

and other personal care. You can hire some one, such 

as a personal care aide or home health aide, to help 

you out a few hours a day or around the clock. 

Some health care services can be provided at home by 

trained professionals, such as occupa tional therapists, 

social workers or home health nurses. Check with your 

insurance or health service to see what kind of coverage 

is available, although you may have to cover some 

of these costs out of pocket. If very specific conditions 

are met, Medicare will help pay for all or a portion of 

home health care. 

Transportation 

Declining health often causes a decline in 

independence and mobility. Many seniors lose 

the ability to drive or simply feel uncomfortable 

behind the wheel at night. Investigate transportation 

options in your area so you can maintain an 

active social life, get medical care and shop for 

necessities. You might find family members willing 

to take you to the grocery store, friends who will 

drive you to social events, nearby bus routes, reduced 

fare taxis or senior transportation services funded 

by a local not-for-profit. Staying in your home should 

not mean being cut off from community activities 

you enjoy. Finding new ways to get around, even 

after you are no longer driving, may allow you to stay 

engaged and active. 

Photos courtesy of Getty Images 


Mind 

Over 

Body 

By Maria McCutchen 

Photography by Nyul 

Our brains control everything about us. The brain controls being 

able to walk, talk, to eat, to breathe and much more. Two of the 

major areas of the brain are the brain stem and the cerebellum. 

The different areas of the brain have their own specific functions 

they are responsible for. 

Although the brain is well protected, nestled inside the skull, there 

are things that can happen that can damage the brain, and cause 

the brain to not function as it should. There can be a birth defect, 

an accident or injury, an illness, or a tumor or brain cyst that grows 

on the brain. 

When something grows on the brain; such as a tumor or a cyst, it 

can put pressure on the area of the brain it is growing on. Pressure 

is one thing that can compromise the functions of the brain so 

that certain functions are altered, or may cease to work altogether. 

A brain cyst is rare. A brain cyst is a fluid filled sack that can develop 

on any one of the three coverings of the brain; the Dura Mater, 

the Arachnoid Mater, or the Pia Mater. A cyst can develop due to a 

couple of different reasons. 

• Injury - Sometimes a cyst can form due to an injury to the 

brain. 

• Hereditary - Certain types of brain cysts have been found to 

have the ability to be hereditary, especially when specific types 

of medical conditions are present. 

• Fetal Development - One of the most common ways a cyst 

develops; however, is that during the developmental stages 

of a fetus, one of the three coverings of the brain can split. 

Once it splits, cerebral spinal fluid can begin to collect under 

the membrane, creating a fluid-filled sac. This sac is the cyst. 

Many times, brain cysts do not cause any problems. You may not 

even know you have a brain cyst. Some people go their entire lifetime, 

or the majority of it, without ever knowing they even have 

a cyst on the brain. For many people, brain cysts are discovered 

on accident - meaning, they may have a scan of the head or brain 

for a different reason, and it’s during the scan that a brain cyst is 

discovered. They may never know they have a brain cyst, if not for 

having the scan. 

If the cyst is one that does cause symptoms and is causing problems, 

a doctor should be consulted. You may start with a neurologist, 

and he may refer you to a neurosurgeon. A neurosurgeon is 

the type of doctor you will need for treatment of a brain cyst. 

Neurosurgeons are the doctors who treat brain cysts, whether it is 

that you need surgery for your cyst, or another form of treatment, 

he will be the one to consult. 

Sometimes a shunt is what is needed. A shunt is inserted during 

surgery, and helps to keep the cyst draining so that it does not 

grow, build pressure, and put pressure on the brain. Today, there 

are shunts that can be adjusted to drain more or less. They are 

adjustable shunts. 

No matter the form of treatment your doctor orders for you, your 

doctor will probably want to monitor your cyst over time. This is 

usually done with an MRI where he can get a clear view of your 

brain. With an MRI, he can see if the cyst is staying the same, 

changing or growing. 

If you ever start experiencing symptoms in your head that you are 

unsure of, or have never had before, the best thing to do is see 

a neurologist to start. You can also start keeping a diary of your 

symptoms. Things you will want to record are: 

• What’s the symptom? - Was it a pain in your head, a burning 

feeling, blurry vision? Describe the symptom. 

• What time of day did it occur? Get in a habit of looking at the 

time when you have a symptom so you can notate it. 

• What you were doing when it happened? Were you exercising, 

eating breakfast, taking a shower? Describe what you were 

doing when the symptom hit. 

It is very possible to live with a brain cyst. Take good care of yourself 

and follow your doctor’s orders. The more you research and 

learn about the type of cyst you have, can also help to put your 

mind at ease. The more you know, the better prepared you are to 

handle your diagnosis. 


Photography by Samuel Johnson 

NATIONAL 

OPHTHALMOLOGY MEETING 

Husband and wife ophthalmologists Dr. Ashish G. Sharma and 

Dr. Nadia A. Kazim were invited speakers at the annual conference 

of the American Osteopathic Colleges of Ophthalmology 

and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation, Inc. in 

Detroit recently. 

Dr. Sharma is a retina specialist with Retina Consultants of 

Southwest Florida with five offices in Southwest Florida. Dr. 

Kazim is an ophthalmic plastic surgeon specializing in eyelid and 

facial plastic surgery with offices in Bonita Springs. 


More than 204,000 eyelid surgeries were performed last year, 

making it the third most popular cosmetic surgical procedure in 

the U.S. 

Dr. Sharma earned his medical degree from Wayne State University 

School of Medicine in Detroit. He completed Fellowship 

training in vitreo-retinal diseases and surgery at the Kresge Eye 

Institute at Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, 

where he and Dr. Kazim met. 

More than 100 ophthalmologists from throughout the United 

States attended the conference to learn about the latest advances 

ophthalmology from Dr. Sharma, Dr. Kazim and other experts. 

Dr. Sharma spoke about the latest research in Age-Related Macular 

Degeneration (AMD) at the National Ophthalmic Research 

Institute (NORI), which is the clinical research center of Retina 

Consultants of Southwest Florida. 

AMD is the leading cause of legal blindness among people ages 

50 and older in the western world. “Wet” AMD occurs when 

abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina in the macula, the 

part of the eye that is responsible for central vision. 

Dr. Sharma said retinal stem cell transplantation is now being 

studied in the United States for the first time in patients with 

AMD, but is not yet approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration 

(FDA) as a therapy for AMD. The studies are evaluating 

the safety and tolerability in humans. 

Dr. Kazim presented a comprehensive review of lower eyelid surgery 

known as blepharoplasty. Lower eyelid surgery can remove 

excess skin, fine wrinkles and bags under the eyes, giving a 

more rested and youthful appearance. 

Dr. Kazim earned her medical degree from Howard University 

College of Medicine in Washington, D.C., followed by internship 

and residency at the Kresge Eye Institute of Wayne State University 

School of Medicine. She also completed Fellowship training 

in ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery at Consultants 

in Ophthalmic and Facial Plastic Surgery in Southfield, Mich. 

Both physicians are board-certified by the American Board of 

Ophthalmology and are Fellows of the American College of Surgeons 

and members of the American Academy Ophthalmology, 

the American Medical Association and numerous other professional 

organizations. 

Dr. Sharma and Dr. Kazim live in Bonita Springs with their two 

children. 

Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida is the most experienced team of retina 

specialists in Southwest Florida with combined experience of more than 100 years. 

Offices are conveniently located in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Naples 

and Port Charlotte. 

Doctors with Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida are Fellows of the American College 

of Surgeons, members of the American Society of Retina Specialists, American 

Academy of Ophthalmology, The Schepens Eye Research Institute Massachusetts Eye 

and Ear, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, and the American Medical Association. 

Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida offers all FDA-approved therapies for retina 

eye disease and is a leader in clinical research through the National Ophthalmic 

Research Institute (NORI), including clinical trials funded by the National Eye Institute, 

The Schepens Eye Research Institute Massachusetts Eye and Ear, an affiliate of 

Harvard Medical School, and other public and private medical research foundations. 


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The latest research in stem cell transplantation 

that could one day restore vision for 

people with age-related macular degeneration 

(AMD) and other eye diseases will 

headline two symposia in February hosted 

by Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida 

with Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts 

Eye and Ear, an affiliate of Harvard 

Medical School. 

The 19th Annual Vision Research Symposia 

will be Friday, Feb. 7, at the Naples Hilton, 

5111 Tamiami Trail North, and Saturday, Feb. 

8, at Harborside Event Center, 1375 Monroe 

Street, in Fort Myers. Both symposia will be 

held from 9 a.m. until noon. 

The symposia, which are free and open to the 

public, are provided by Retina Consultants of 

Southwest Florida as a community service. 

Advanced registration is required and is now 

available online at www.MassEyeAndEar.org/ 

symposia or by calling 1-800-536-8327. 

Schepens Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts 

Eye and Ear (SERI/MEE) is the largest 

eye research facility in the world and has collaborated 

with Retina Consultants of Southwest 

Florida on the symposia for the past 19 

years. 

Dr. Michael Young, associate scientist of 

SERI/MEE and associate professor in the 

Department of Ophthalmology of Harvard 

Medical School, will describe the research 

underway in retinal transplantation of stem 

cells for the treatment of AMD and retinitis 

pigmentosa. Working with rodents and 

pigs,Young said researchers have been able 

to isolate stem cells from the retina, expand 

them in culture, and then graft them into the 

diseased eyes, restoring sight. 

“We have recently begun to isolate and characterize 

human retinal stem cells, and shown 

that these cells are also capable of generating 

photoreceptors following grafting to the 

degenerating rodent retina,” he said. 

Deeba Husain, MD 

Site Director, Massachusetts Eye and Ear 

Retina Consultants, Stoneham 

Lecturer on Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical 

School 

More than 2,000 people are expected to attend 

this year’s symposia. 

AMD is the leading cause of legal blindness 

in people older than 50 in the western world. 

Approximately 13 million Americans have 

wet or dry AMD. 

“These are exciting times in the field of ophthalmology. 

Stem cell therapy is being tested 

now for safety in clinical trials at Massachusetts 

Eye and Ear,” said Dr. Joseph Walker, 

founder of Retina Consultants and an adjunct 

clinical faculty member with Schepens 

Eye Research Institute/Massachusetts Eye 

and Ear. “We are very encouraged by the results 

we have seen so far.” 


Dr, Deeba Husain, site director of Massachusetts 

Eye and Ear, will give an overview of 

treatments for wet and dry AMD. 

Rich Godfrey, patient liaison with SERI/MEE, 

will give a patient’s perspective of the challenges 

he’s faced and lessons he’s learned 

from having AMD. 

Other speakers during the symposia include 

Dr. Walker, Dr. Glenn L. Wing, Dr. Ashish 

Sharma, and Dr. Donald C Fletcher of Retina 

Consultants of Southwest Florida and the National 

Ophthalmic Research Institute (NORI). 

In addition to sharing the newest AMD therapies, 

treatments for other retinal disorders 

will be discussed. 

Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida is 

the most experienced team of retina specialists 

in the Southwest Florida region with 

combined experience of more than 125 

years. Offices are conveniently located in 

Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Naples 

and Port Charlotte. 

Michael J. Young, PhD 

Associate Scientist & Minda deGunzburg 

Scholar in Retinal Transplantation, 

Massachusetts Eye and Ear/Schepens Eye 

Research Institute

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Before 

After 

Ultherapy® 

A Novel Minimally Invasive Procedure 

By Stephen Prendiville, M.D. 

The introduction of Ultherapy® into the facial cosmetic 

realm has stirred a great deal of interest, with features 

on “The Doctors” and “Dr. Oz” offering a breakthrough 

form of facial rejuvenation. This technology utilizes focused 

ultrasound waves to stimulate collagen production 

and facial soft tissue tightening. The question is: 

How good is Ultherapy®? 

Although the search for the fountain of youth is first 

credited to explorer Ponce De Leon, this quest has never 

really abated. American culture has been fascinated 

with looking younger for generations, and this fascination 

has only grown stronger with time. The popularity 

of cosmetic procedures is the United States is born out 

by a number of recent surveys. 

If one was to look back 30 years to the 1980’s, the topic 

of nonsurgical aesthetic procedures was a very short 

chapter in any Facial Plastic Surgical textbook. However, 

with society’s desire to have improved appearances 

without downtime, and hence without surgery, there has 

been a proliferation of nonsurgical options. 

This trend started with Botox®, and quickly moved on to 

fillers (Juvederm®, Restylane®, Radiesse®). However, 

since these minimally invasive procedures are capable 


of achieving specific targeted goals without reproducing 

the comprehensive results seen with more invasive 

procedures like Facelift, Brow Lifts, or Laser Resurfacing, 

the search continues. 

In the last decade, a technique known as Thermage®, 

a form of facial soft tissue tightening achieved with radiofrequency, 

was introduced. Unfortunately, results 

were mixed and unpredictable, making it clear that this 

procedure was not the “nonsurgical Facelift” many had 

sought. 

Other devices, such as Titan® (infrared), and Pelleve® 

(Radiofrequency) have since been marketed in the United 

States, but have not attained the status of “goal standard” 

of minimally invasive facial tightening procedures. 

In the last several years, a device known as Ulthera® 

was introduced, which utilizes focused ultrasound energy 

to cause deep tissue heating and subsequent collagen 

stimulation. Unlike its predecessors in the field of 

minimally invasive devices, Ultherapy® has received an 

FDA indication for soft tissue tightening (specifically in 

the ability to achieve a nonsurgical brow lift). 

Ultherapy® is typically performed in the outpatient set-

ting, with oral sedation and takes about 60 to 90 minutes 

to perform. The target areas for soft tissue tightening 

include the lower cheek, jowl area, neck, and brow area. 

Since Ultrasound has been used for decades as a soft tissue 

imaging modality, the depth of tissue penetration is 

more standardized than with radiofrequency devices like 

Thermage®. In fact, the device has two target depths, 

4.5 mm which targets the fibro fatty tissue beneath the 

skin known as the SMAS (superficial musculo-aponeurotic 

system), and 3.0 mm to target the deep dermis; 

the device has imaging capability, allowing for visualization 

of the treated tissue during treatment. Results are 

gradual, taking a minimum of two months and as long as 

six months to unfold, lasting an average of 24 months. 

The initial response to Ultherapy® has been favorable 

for facial tightening and brow elevation. A review of patient 

reactions to Ultherapy® on a plastic surgery website 

(www.realself.com) reveals an approval rating of 83 

percent among 143 patient reviews as of press 

time (Thermage® has an approval rating of 39 

percent among 250 patient reviews). 

Ultherapy® can be viewed as an advance in minimally 

invasive soft tissue tightening, as an effective tool when 

applied to a patient with appropriate indications and expectations 

by an experienced Facial Plastic Surgeon. As 

far as the fountain of youth….. the search continues. 

For more information, visit www.drprendiville.com 

or call 239-437-3900 for a consultation. 

The Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce 

Visitor Information Center 

Before 

After 

Our Guest Book says it all... 

Ulthera tightens the skin 

and stimulates collagen 

The main criticisms of Ultherapy® have been 

twofold. The treatment is moderately painful, 

albeit tolerable utilizing mild oral pain control. 

The second, via anecdotal reports, has been 

that Ultherapy® works better in patients in 

their late 40s to late 50s much better than it 

does for patients in their mid 60s and older. 

This leads to the conclusion that Ultherapy® 

appears to be the most effective minimally 

invasive soft tissue technique in its class, although 

not really a “nonsurgical Facelift”. In 

fact, most Facial Plastic Surgeons are skeptical 

of the words “nonsurgical” and “Facelift” within 

the same sentence, viewing such phraseology 

more as marketing than reality. 

“Thank you! Helpful - got lots to read! Very helpful and friendly smiles! So pretty! 

See you next year! Very visitor friendly and lovely scenery! Help is fantastic! Danke! 

Just moved into an older home so thanks for the info on services to my home! 

OMG! 

Merci Beaucoup! Wonderfully warm and helpful individuals! Great service! I love Naples! 

Grazie! Our second visit here! Thanks for your valued advice! Excellent help from a local! 

Volunteer was a wonderful help! Awesome staff! We love it here! You’re great people! 

Very good advice and ideas! We want to live here! We’ll be back! Beautiful Center! 

Excited to be here! One of the nicest and prettiest Visitor Centers we’ve seen on our trip! 

I love Paradise! Fabulous place...wonderful people! Gracias! Wonderful information! 

Thanks for helping me find things to do for my grandchildren’s visit! Gorgeous! 

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! 


Dr. Prendiville - New Injectable Filler 

Using before and after pictures of actual patients, Dr. Prendiville 

will discuss the latest advances in facelifts, eyelid lifts, nose 

surgery, lasers, and reconstructive surgery. He also will review 

non surgical approaches including Ultherapy as well as injectable 

wrinkle fillers Botox®, Sculptra®, Juvederm®, Restylane® and 

Radiesse®. 

In addition to a light lunch, attendees will be able to make an 

appointment for a free consultation with Dr. Prendiville. 

Stephen Prendiville, M.D., is the only Fellowship 

Trained and double Board-certified Facial Plastic 

and Reconstructive Surgeon in Lee County. 

The first injectable filler to restore volume to the cheek area has 

been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 

and will be explained at a facial plastic surgery seminar conducted 

by Dr. Stephen Prendiville Friday, Jan. 24, in Bonita Springs. 

Juvederm Voluma XC injectable gel is the first and only filler 

FDA-approved to add volume to the cheek area for up to two 

years. The filler is approved to correct age-related volume deficiency 

in adults ages 21 and older. 

Juvederm Voluma XC will be discussed along with other procedures 

for rejuvenating the face at the January 24 seminar, beginning 

at 11:30 a.m.at the Trianon Bonita Bay Hotel, 3401 Bay 

Commons Drive, in Bonita Springs. A light lunch will be served. 

The seminar is free, but reservations are required by calling 239- 

437-3900. Space is limited. 

Dr. Prendiville said Juvederm Voluma XC has been used for 

years in Europe with excellent results. 

“Being able to offer this breakthrough treatment to my patients 

is exciting because Juvederm Voluma XC is made for the patient 

who wants immediate results, a long duration of result, and 

an excellent safety profile,” said Dr. Prendiville. 

Dr. Prendiville is the only Fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon 

in Fort Myers who is certified by both the American Board 

of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American 

Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. 

He is recognized nationally as a facelift expert with more than 20 

articles published in medical journals and he has served as guest 

editor for Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America. 

In 2008, he was invited to join RealSelf.com as a reviewer and 

has now achieved Distinguished Member status for his responses 

to patients with questions about facial plastic surgery and skin 

rejuvenation techniques. 

Dr. Prendiville also is the past president and secretary/treasurer 

of the Florida Society of Facial Plastic Surgery. 

Dr. Prendiville graduated with his M.D. degree with high honors 

from Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington, 

D.C., and served his residency at Georgetown University. 

He was awarded a Fellowship in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive 

Surgery at St. Louis University in Missouri, where he was 

a clinical instructor in the St. Louis University Department of 

Otolaryngology. 

All surgeries are performed at Dr. Prendiville’s state-of-the-art 

Surgical Center adjacent to his office in South Fort Myers at 

9407 Cypress Lake Drive, Suite A. The Surgical Center is accredited 

by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory 

Surgical Facilities (AAAASF), which is the largest accrediting 

body for outpatient surgical facilities in the United States. 


Posture 

the Missing Link in Beauty 


• It’s not just sitting for hours on end that’s bad for you; it’s how 

one sits. The dangers of sitting have garnered plenty of attention in 

recent years, especially since we have become a society of sitters. 

Sitting for long periods comes with many health risks, including 

obesity and cardiovascular disease. But sitting with less than perfect 

posture – most frequently, sitting with the head and should in 

a forward position over a desk -- can cause significant neck pain, 

which involves muscles and nerves from the neck down. Proper 

posture can prevent neck and spinal damage. 

To some extent, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but the 

things we consider beautiful usually share certain characteristics, 

with symmetry and vitality being chief among them, says CEO Bill 

Schultz. 

“The human body is an excellent example,” says Schultz, president 

of posture innovator AlignMed, and recent recipient of a special 

Congressional Recognition certificate for his contributions. “The 

people we view as physically attractive are usually healthy and 

symmetrical in appearance. That’s not a coincidence; postural symmetry 

and good health go hand in hand.” 

Good posture – holding the head, shoulders and trunk in perfect 

alignment – creates balance, which allows our many physiological 

systems to function optimally, Schultz says. When we habitually sit, 

stand or walk in a less than a fully aligned position, muscles stretch 

or contract to accommodate. This can result in chronic imbalances 

that can lead to pain. Studies dating back to the 19th century also 

suggest our posture affects mood, energy and self-confidence, all 

of which affect how attractive we appear to others. 

“You don’t see supermodels, A-list actors or the rest of the ‘beautiful 

people’ slouched over as they strut down the runway or red 

carpet,” Schultz notes. 

“Think about the importance of posture among the most challenging 

sports; for track runners, ballerinas and gymnasts, optimal 

posture is essential,” says Schultz, who explores four ways in which 

posture is part of the beauty-health connection. 

• More than 116 million Americans, or a third of the population, 

suffer from chronic pain at some point in their lives. That’s according 

to a recent report from the Institute of Medicine. Chronic pain 

means that a sufferer has anywhere from 30 to 60 days of lasting 

pain, and this massive problem is estimated to cost Americans 

$635 billion dollars. For many, treatment and/or prevention is out 

of reach, however, a reliable and easy way to prevent chronic pain 

is to maintain good posture. 

• A strong, well-functioning core is crucial for training and optimal 

health. The bulk of a body’s mass is located at and around 

one’s core, including the trunk and pelvis region. Today’s fitness 

fanatics firmly grasp the importance of a healthy core. Surprisingly, 

however, much of the health-conscious population today is musclecentric 

and does not fully appreciate the importance of posture, 

even though proper posture facilitates core strengthening, especially 

while exercising. 

• Using passive therapy to continuously improve posture. To feel 

and look your best, it’s important to maintain good posture throughout 

the day, but that’s difficult, especially for sedentary people. 

Neurologists at Rush University Medical Center say passive therapy 

can be even more effective than active therapy. Posture-enhancing 

apparel such as MyLign by AlignMed, worn by professional athletes 

including NBA player Dwight Howard, offer neurologic biofeedback 

that constantly remind the skeleton and muscles to self-correct. 

AlignMed founder Shultz says the shirts are not compression shirts, 

which squeeze the body and are primarily worn for aesthetics. “The 

shirts map muscles in the same way kinesio tape – used to reduce 

inflammation, relax muscles and enhance performance – assists 

world-class athletes,” he says. 

www.alignmed.com 


Receding Gums 

Major Issue Affecting Oral Health 


Affecting nearly half of the U.S. population, gum recession is an 

oral health issue in which the gums have worn away, exposing 

teeth to damaging, disease-causing bacteria. While traditional 

treatments exist, they come with a painful surgery with a long 

recovery time. A new treatment option, however, offers better, 

nearly pain-free results for patients. 

Gum recession and its traditional treatments 

For many, the issue of receding gums is caused by gum disease or 

from simply over-brushing the teeth and gums. While aging often 

comes into play, children can also be affected. In fact, 10 percent 

of children with braces suffer from gum recession. 

While there is a surgical method to correct the issue, also known 

as gum grafting, the process can be very painful, requiring multiple 

surgical procedures and an extended recovery time. To perform 

this method, tissue from the roof of the mouth is cut, removed 

and surgically grafted onto the receding gum area. But 

thanks to a new technique, patients now have a less painful option 

for correcting this issue. 

A new and improved method 

This breakthrough method for treating gum recession is called 

the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST). Invented and patented by 

John Chao, D.D.S., the procedure is incision-free and suture-free. 

To correct the problem, Chao uses a fine needle to create a small 

pinhole above the receded gums. With special instruments the 

gums are loosened from the underlying connective tissue and 

moved into the proper position. Finally, collagen strips are placed 

through the pinhole under the gums to keep them in place. The 

Pinhole Surgical Technique is “quick,” “easy,” and “instantly pleasing.” 

It is quick because it takes only 15 to 20 minutes to correct 

gum recession for two or three teeth. It is “easy” on the patient 

because no incisions or stitching is required. Hence, there are 

hardly any symptoms of discomfort afterwards. It is “instantly 

pleasing” because the gum line looks practically normal immediately 

after the procedure is completed. Many patients are astounded 

by the “instant” change in appearance. 

Factors for patients 

While costs of both procedures are comparable, there are several 

factors for patients to consider. Traditional gum grafting from another 

place in the mouth requires several incisions and generally 

can only correct one to two teeth per surgical visit, which can take 

up to two hours to complete. PST, on the other hand, involves no 

incisions, can correct 10-14 teeth per visit and only takes about 

20 minutes to treat three teeth. Also, the Pinhole is practically 

healed and disappears by the next day, while gum grafting can 

take up to three weeks to heal. 

www.pinholesurgicaltechnique.com 

Coming to a town near you 

Due to the popularity of the new technique, Dr. Chao is training 

the PST procedure to dentists around the world. This allows patients 

from the U.S. and all over the world to take part in this innovative 

new procedure. Call 626-308-9104 for more information. 


Lost the Art of 

Medicine? 

Experienced Caregiver Shares 3 Tips for Injecting Humanity 

into an Often Cold & Arbitrary Heath-Care System 


As a well-traveled, well-educated couple who spent most 

of their lives in New York City, Philip and Ruth Barash had 

witnessed and experienced much as they approached their 

golden years. A savvy New York couple, they’d learned to 

anticipate challenges. 

Philip was a U.S. Army veteran who’d served in the Korean 

War and later became an attorney; Ruth’s education and experience 

includes philosophy, art, real estate, public relations and 

executive-level civic work. But one problem they didn’t foresee 

was navigating their own country’s health-care system. In the 

most prominent city of the wealthiest nation on the planet, 

how bad could it be? 

“Philip’s health problems began in 1988 and steadily continued 

until his death in 2012,” says Barash, who shares her healthcare 

experiences in a new book, “For Better or Worse: Lurching 

from Crisis to Crisis in America’s Medical Morass.” 

“We were in and out of doctors’ offices, hospitals and emergency 

rooms a lot, and I was shocked by the lack of compassion 

we frequently encountered, as well as the number of 

health-care professionals who simply are not good diagnosticians.” 

Barash’s cautionary tale traces her husband’s long death 

through a medical journey fraught with mismanagement and 

excess, useless interventions and a sometimes complete disregard 

for pain – even when there was no hope of healing. 

“The art of intuitive, compassionate health care is dying as 

doctors rely more on technology and are guided through an 

arbitrary template established by insurance company policies,” 

she says. 

Barash discusses some of the lessons she has learned while 

navigating overcrowded and dingy emergency room lobbies, 

callous staff and tech-absorbed doctors. 

• Have an advocate! Through the years of Philip’s health problems, 

we encountered extreme kindness, thoughtfulness and 

high intelligence; we were also confronted with arrogance, 

indifference and self-serving staff during some of the worst 

moments. As hard as it was for both of us, we always knew 

we had each other. If and when you find yourself requiring 

medical assistance, avoid going it alone; it will be exponentially 

more difficult, and your chance for survival will exponentially 

decrease. 

• Ask what benefits a proposed treatment will have. We all like 

to think we have good doctors, and that if we’re hospitalized, 

we’ll be competently cared for. We also like to think Santa will 

bring us nice presents if we’ve been good children. Realize 

that invasive and expensive tests are often not necessary; in 

fact, they often make things worse. Be as skeptical about a 

procedure proposed by a doctor as you would by any salesman. 

• Don’t get sick! While this may seem like a facetious bit of 

advice, since we all succumb to illness at some point – it’s 

actually a sincere sentiment. Do not take your health for 

granted; do not think “they” will invent a quick fix between 

now and the time you find yourself in need of serious medical 

attention. Unnecessary health risks such as smoking; illegal 

drug use; excessive alcohol intake; and a diet filled with sugar, 

salt and fat will take you sooner rather than later to the hellish 

journey known as the U.S. health-care system. 

www.forbetterorworsebook.com 


WYVERN Hotel 

Voted number ONE for more than the rooms. 

Voted the number one place to stay for several years running; 

the Wyvern Hotel has one unique location with spacious 

rooms, a super friendly staff and a few steps to fishing, 

great food, entertaining events and more. You would 

think that would be it, but this hotel offers more than a 

central location within the heart of Punta Gorda. 

A large meeting room for personal and business events, 

Lulu’s restaurant serves a premier flare of Latin Fusion. 

Take a dip in the roof top pool or just relax and watch 

the boats go by, you are treated to a quiet panoramic 

view of Punta Gorda. Afterwards, head over to one of the 

art centers or maybe the farmers market. There is always 

something that your whole family can enjoy. This is one 

of the most exciting places to be that sets Wyvern Hotel 

apart from the others. 

The staff makes sure you have the option to be as active 

as you wish or do nothing at all. Sit by the sky bar and 

have a cool desert, listen to some live music and take in 

the colorful sunset skyline; as the beauty of the city lights 

creates a roof top atmosphere for a wonderful evening set 

for two. 

By Nick Whelan 

www.GerroArt.com 

(941) 639-6364 

One of a kind handmade fashion 

Photography by Tone Imaging 

Model Wendy Williams 

The Wyvern Hotel 

101 East Retta Esplanade 

Punta Gorda, FL 33950 

Phone: (941) 639-7700

Men of Distinction 

Photo courtesy of Reagan Rule Photography 

Photo (l-r) standing: Dolph W. von Arx, Jim Jessee, Andy Buschle, Moe Kent, Roger M. Vasey 

(l-r) sitting: Russell A. Budd, Bill Barnett, John A. Henry, Stephen C. Weisberg, Harold G. Weeks 

Every year, the Men of Distinction Awards honor men for 

their outstanding commitment and service to the children 

of Collier County. The Education Foundation—Champions 

For Learning is proud to announce that the 2014 Men 

of Distinction are: Bill Barnett, Russell A. Budd, Andy 

Buschle, John A. Henry, Jim Jessee, Moe Kent, Roger M. 

Vasey, Dolph W. von Arx, Harold G. Weeks, and Stephen C. 

Weisberg. 

"The 2014 Men of Distinction have been an integral 

part of the community in giving of their time, talent and 

treasure in many ways,” explains George Walters, Jr., 

2014 Men of Distinction Chair. “Above all, through their 

volunteer service, they have evidenced a highly distinct 

passion for helping the children of Collier County ". 

On December 4th, the 2014 honorees had an opportunity 

to meet Men of Distinction Alumni for a luncheon hosted 

by Roy’s – Downtown Naples. 

The 2014 Men of Distinction will be honored on Thursday, 

February 6, 2014, from 6-9 pm at the 13th Annual Men of 

Distinction Awards Celebration generously hosted by the 

Hilton Naples. In addition to the presentation of the men, 

the evening includes a cocktail reception, dinner and auction. 

Tickets are $175 and all proceeds from the awards 

celebration support the work of Champions For Learning. 

Prior to the awards celebration is the Men of Distinction 

Golf Tournament on January 30, 2014, hosted by The ACE 

Group Classic at TwinEagles, returning host of the 2013 

ACE Group Classic Tournament. In conjunction with ACE’s 

Media Day, players attending this exclusive tournament 

will enjoy a lunch buffet before teeing off, with a dinner 

buffet and awards immediately following the tournament. 

2013 ACE Champion Bernhard Langer will also be in attendance. 

Take Stock in Children scholars will share their 

stories, and guests will see the results of our community’s 

investment, and the future the students are creating for 

themselves. Cost is $1,000 per foursome which includes 

hole sponsorship, or $200 per golfer; all proceeds from 

the tournament support the Take Stock in Children scholarship 

and mentoring program. 

The Men of Distinction Awards Celebration and Golf 

Tournament major sponsors are: The ACE Group Classic, 

éBella , Hilton Naples , the journal , and The Naples Daily 

News. 

For more information call 239-643-4755. 

www.ChampionsForLearning/MOD 


Marilyn’s Distinctive European Fashion 

Marilyn’s Distinctive European Fashion recently hosted a Private Press 

Party Preview on Wednesday, December 11 at its beautiful, new location 

at 375 Fifth Avenue South. 

Over 60 guests attended this invitation-only event that featured a personal, 

guided tour of the new space by owner, Marilyn Hellman; a dazzling 

production from Mark and Karen Danni with Karemar Productions that included 

Broadway tunes and a delightful skit; delectable appetizers; and a 

champagne toast. This was the perfect occasion for Marilyn to unveil her 

newly relocated, but enduringly chic boutique and its incomparable selection 

of clothing, accessories, handbags, hats, shoes, jewelry, and more. 

Distinguished attendees included Naples City Councilman Sam Saad; Phil 

McCabe; Monica Biondo, Development Director of the David Lawrence 

Center; Art and Bev Cherry; Patti and Ralph Miesel; Kat Smith, Managing 

Editor of Naples Illustrated; Teri Evans, Editor in Chief of Naples Illustrated; 

and many more. The Private Press Party Preview was hosted by 

owner, Marilyn Hellman, and Dawn Sulmasy; Jennifer and Bud Tash; Gene 

and Dianne Gardner; and Spring and Robin Haigler. 

Marilyn’s Distinctive European Fashion’s new location features an additional 

2,000 square feet of floor space - making it three times larger than 

the previous location – and was designed to provide a chic, fun, and sexy 

environment that is exciting and always enjoyable to visit. The relocation 

allowed Hellman to expand the store’s incomparable selection of the 

very finest handbags, belts, and jewelry, from Spain, Italy, and France, 

while also adding some customer-requested items, including dresses and 

sportswear. The boutique also features larger, luxury dressing rooms, for 

more private fittings and wardrobe consultations; a chic showroom with a 

relaxing seating area; and a 24-foot runway ideal for fashion shows with 

guest appearances by European designers! 

“This Private Press Party Preview not only allowed me to unveil the new 

location in grand style, but it also provided the perfect opportunity to 

thank the friends, family, fellow businesspeople, and media that have supported 

and encouraged me and my team from the store’s inception,” said 

Hellman. 

Marilyn’s Distinctive European Fashions opened in November 2009. After 

traveling for her role as a buyer for a specialty boutique in Chicago, 

owner Marilyn Hellman felt that there was a need for a boutique that sold 

luxurious, European goods paired with her special, personalized service 

in Naples. Not long after the store opened, Hellman received a request 

to offer a seminar about how to put an outfit together. Today she offers 

dozens of private and group seminars – where she’s always willing to give 

a tip or two - and fashion shows with select European designers each 

year. Hellman’s valued relationships with designers, manufacturers, and 

vendors from Paris, Venice, Rome, Madrid, London, and Milan allow her 

to offer exclusive pieces including handbags, belts, and jewelry, and also 

a large assortment of hats, including those by famed designers, Philip 

Treacy and Steven Jones. Additional niche offerings include a comprehensive 

collection of Italian and French blouses; exclusive jewelry lines that 

are handcrafted with inventive techniques using metals, stones, crystals, 

Venetian glass, and resins; and couture handbags made with exotic skins 

including python. Her passion for fashion reflects in her store with items 

that are within reach, yet beyond familiarity. 

For more information about Marilyn’s Distinctive European Fashions, 

please call 239.206.4460. 

www.MarilynHellman.com 

Chairs of Marilyn’s Press Party Preview Event included Dawn Sulmasy; Jennifer and Bud Tash; 

owner Marilyn Hellman; Gene and Dianne Gardner; and Spring and Robin Haigler. 

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


Art and Bev Cherry and Patti and Ralph Miesel at 

Marilyn’s Distinctive European Fashion’s event. 

Sam Saad, Naples City Councilman, Marilyn’s Distinctive European Fashion Owner, Marilyn 

Hellman; and Monica Biondo, Development Director of the David Lawrence Center

Designer 

Profile 

Dajana 

By Susana Sueldo 

Dajana Basic launched her 2013/14 Collection amongst 

mounting expectation and quiet anticipation. We had 

been lucky enough to talk to the designer, Dajana, days 

prior to this event and she candidly let us peep into her 

creative process and how this collection came alive. 

Macaroons inspired Dajana into an "off the tired all white" 

of Bridal Collections and not only did she achieve that but 

a lot more. The eight dresses presented were strikingly 

different in the style and construction and at the same 

time coherent with the theme of the elegance and subtle 

delicacy of the colors in delicious macaroons. Each design 

presented not only a different color but also a personal 

and individual silhouette that highlighted the multilayered 

construction and the impeccable craftsmanship. 


What inspired you to start your fashion line? 

Whilst finishing my MA dissertation on Vogue Magazine I started working as a personal stylist in London and discovered a gap in 

the bridal wear industry for very fashionable but affordable bridal gowns. I started researching the market and discovered that 

with today’s offer on affordable bridal dresses modern brides rather choose to hire a gown for still quite a lot of money (at least 

£500 per day on average) which they cannot keep for eternity. I felt it was quite a shame having to return something as personal 

as your own wedding dress which is not as standard as a graduation gown for example or any other uniform. :) So looking at the 

rage of affordable bridal gowns in London´s leading bridal boutiques (£1700 on average) they all seemed very similar to me and 

had nothing outstanding really... all mainly white, champagne or off-white, mainly strapless and with a little bit of lace for romantic 

decoration. Looking at the modern women´s buying behavior as well as today´s economic situation, I felt really driven through my 

entrepreneurship studies in the fashion industry 

to try and develop a business proposal in order 

to bring the bridal wear industry more to the 

fashionable upper high-street market and offer 

young fashionable brides their own designer 

signature identity for an affordable price, under 

a recognizable bridal wear label. Since childhood 

I always felt very comfortable in drawing 

dresses so basically I developed the idea that 

what my favorite bridal designer Vera Wang 

represents for the high-end market, inspires me 

to bring down to a more affordable level with 

own signature designs and represent strong designer 

identity for young fashionable brides on 

the upper high-street - affordable designs under 

a signature brand identity. :) I believe it is a big 

step in the bridal wear industry which might 

lead the industry into a new modern era but 

on the other hand it is what young fashionable 

brides desirer...outstanding designs and affordable 

prices, that is why generally our high-street 

is booming. :) 


How is your line different from any other bridal designs? 

My aim is to design recognizable but affordable bridal gowns for young fashionable 

brides by adding delicate soft color accents to my white dress designs. The brands 

identity is all about `away from pure white´ in order to create a very fashionable 

and elegant new upper high-street bridal wear label for a new generation of modern 

brides. 

Who is the ideal bride to wear your designs? 

The young professional women with an average to an upper average income who 

loves fashion, outstanding designs and shopping on the high-street; who likes to combine 

fashion trends with timeless elegance and the mixture of expensive and inexpensive 

fashion items and accessories. Dajana Basic London´s brides are very sociable 

and fun, sophisticated young women who love to enjoy their lives, be happy and feel 

loved. They like to look their most beautiful every single day, suitable for each occasion. 

They are looking for an outstanding bridal gown, something different, modern 

and elegant at the same time that fits their body shape perfectly and does not cost a 

fortune, something they feel very comfortable and special to wear on their big day. 

You studied Law in Germany, what led you to fashion after that? 

Fashion was always the main industry I was very passionate about, but being still very 

young when I started Uni in Germany and also being elected youth president of my 

home town in Germany for 5 years, I had too many commitments and was just not 

ready back then to move away from home to a fashion capital to follow my passion. 

Business Law was a course available close to my home town in Germany and seemed 

like a very save option whilst I was still very engaged in different projects in Germany, 

and with broad options to change into different industries afterwards. At some point 

I could not wait any longer to graduate from law school and as I did not see myself 

as a typical lawyer really, I finally decided to follow my passion into London´s fashion 

industry to expand my business knowledge and creative skills to study the management 

and entrepreneurial side of fashion. 

What are your preferred fabrics? 

I absolutely love the key fabrics of romantic feminine lace, soft tulle and organza for 

all my dress designs. 

Are brides normally decided on what they want when they come to you? 

Do they change their mind after the consultation? 

Every bride has an idea of her dream wedding dress which always slightly changes or 

adapts when looking for the perfect gown. My job is to present a range of completely 

new, easy wearable dress designs of each collection to modern brides which fit the 

majority of female body shapes and hopefully inspire individual ideas of an outstanding 

made-to-order designer gown `away from pure white and towards delicate color 

accents´ and also be able to advise each bride for a more customized gown, perfectly 

fitted to individual styles and figure. 

How is your creative process? 

All dresses are designed in England and handcrafted by our leading seamstresses in 

one of our design studios in Shanghai. Each dress will be individually made-to-order, 

allowing brides to submit their exact professional measurements and then handcrafted 

specifically to the designers size chart. We tend to craft each dress slightly larger so 

that it can be taken in and perfectly fitted just prior the wedding to guarantee the 

absolute perfect and comfortable fit. 


Do brides or fabrics inspire you first? 

Designing a whole collection it is the mood of each season and the 

fashion forecast that inspires me for seasonal colors, fabrics and 

dress designs. Designing a customized dress it is the actual individual 

bride I like to get to know first over a consultation that inspires me 

for her own dress design. There I can look specifically at her personal 

style, body shape, and favorite color tones to be able to design the 

perfect customized gown. 

Could you say your designs are adaptable to all body 

shapes? 

All of our SS 2014 debut gowns are designed to fit the majority of 

female body shapes. Having each dress handcrafted on a made-toorder 

base we are able to deliver perfectly fitted gowns by matching 

exact bridal measurements to our size chart, leaving room for final 

fittings and take-ins just before the wedding. Designing a customized 

bridal gown however we advise each bride on the best fit for her 

personal body shape and create sketches of each customized dress 

design to show the differences in fit and style. 

Do you believe in comfort over fashion? Do you compromise? 

I personally do not believe there has to be a compromised in either 

fashion or comfort on a daily base, even though I know that lots of 

women do compromise. Wearing ready-to-wear fashion on a daily 

base I personally always ensure to feel very comfortable in my outfits, 

especially in all my shoes... if I wear heals, they have to be super 

comfortable; otherwise no matter how lovely they look if the design 

is not comfortable for me I personally would not purchase a pair. 

However sometimes there are limits in what designer can achieve. 

Designing all our bridal gowns we like to ensure to use very light materials, 

corsage support and figure friendly designs in order to achieve 

the maximum comfort for each bride. We have to accept though that 

it is nearly impossible to achieve the same comfort in a long bridal 

gown as in a light summery dress. All the extra fine material on bridal 

gowns are not made for practical day-to-day wearing but we can 

certainly achieve the most possible comfort to walk, dance, eat, drink 

and move around freely and comfortably on the big day. 

www.dajanabasic.com 

Photo courtesy of Giuseppe Cardone 


If you cannot remember when was the last time you went out 

shopping for clothes due to your limited budget, perhaps there is 

a solution for you not to feel "out of fashion" anymore. Garnishing 

and remodeling clothes is not only an interesting idea for you 

to pass your time with, but it can actually help you renew your 

wardrobe with the minimum amount of money possible. 

Transforming clothes was always connected with providing many 

important functions for human activity. In addition, transformed 

clothes are a byproduct of creativity and ingenuity. Being a stylish 

person is not easy. Thus, improving your clothes' demeanor 

as an act of conscious fashion shift towards contemporary refashioning 

of secondhand clothing is actually rather progressive. 

Experiencing the new character of that same old pair of jeans 

you have bought three years ago, can be the outcome of your 

dedication to commit some time and renew its old fit. A few 

cuts, at the right places, some foe crystals on its back pockets, 

a monogram on the thigh, a gold sparkling textile marker across 

the waist, are some of the things that can help you transform 

your used clothing and attract other peoples' attention to your 

unique style illustrated by your personally crafted fashionable 

creations. 

Redesigning 

Style 

Your 

By K. Buchanan 

Additionally, transforming old clothes, in any way, can become 

your new potential value to another social group. You might 

even discover a hidden talent while in the process. A number of 

people, who have begun remodeling or garnishing their clothes 

due to need or as a new hobby, experienced tremendous success 

through their hand-made creations and entered the fashion 

industry from the backstage. The "one-piece" deal is a strong 

marketing incentive when people need to convey through their 

clothes the feeling of being different; this need grows worldwide 

as globalization transcends all known boarders-especially that of 

fashion. By selling their creations to a variety of clothing stores, 

or more recently online, these clothes re-crafters reintroduced 

an old idea, which became an instant urban trend. 

Thus, next time you look frustrated the resources you have available 

in your closet, instead of wasting time and money in trying 

to figure out what to wear for a night out, why not using your 

imagination along with some of your other skills to renovate 

the pieces of your wardrobe that need a little sparkle again to 

shine? Apart from it being a great idea to spend some quality 

time alone, redesigning clothes can also open up new career 

horizons; at least it can amuse you and your friends. Transforming 

an old skirt into an apron or a pillow case, garnishing your 

worn-out pants with silver spray suitable for textile painting, altering 

the length of your old simple black dress, or engraving 

your initials on your leather bag may be some of the alterations 

you can perform to your possession and enter a party with a 

redesigned style. The most important thing is that you will be 

able to congratulate yourself when one will gaze your looks and 

admire your stylish appearance. Most importantly, you will know 

that no fortune was spent on that "unique" piece of clothing you 

are wearing. Isn't that a sweat deal? 


ADRIANNA PAPELL 

Adrianna Papell floral-print shirt dress with drawstring waistline, 

rayon/nylon, buttercup, $160.Crochet dot dress with exposed 

back zipper, polyester,green, $160. In Encore at Nordstrom 

and nordstrom.com. 



MICHAEL MICHAEL KORS 

Military zip-front jacket, gold-tone hardware, polyester/ 

rayon/spandex, blaze red, Misses and Petites, $225, Plus, 

$235. Houndstooth pencil skirt with slimming black panels, 

polyester/spandex, cream, $79.50. All in Narrative, Petite 

Focus and Encore at Nordstrom and nordstrom.com.

VIA SPIGA 

‘Pamela’ T-strap sandal, glitter fabric with leather lining and 

sole, anthracite or purple, $250. In Salon Shoes at Nordstrom 

and nordstrom.com. 



bar III 

Tank $69.00 

Skirt $69.00 

Available at select Macy's and at macys.com

Material Girl 

Top $22.00 

Vest $34.00 

Short $28.00 

Available at select Macy's and at macys.com 



Women's Seersucker Blazer, $90 

Women's French Terry Pants, $50 

Women's Draping Stretch Neck Tank, $25 

Women's Rope Trim Fedora, $40 

Women's High Wood Wrap Insley Wedge Sandal, $85

Women's 3/4 Sleeve Donegal Open Crew, $180 

Women's Long Sleeve Cotton Lawn Shirt, $60 

Women's High Rise Short, $60 

Women's Collette Combat Boot, $215 

Women's Cross Body Messenger, $300 


LK 

Paris 


In 1998 she launched her first brands: at first under 

the name "Laure K" for her wedding gowns and 

"Laure Kczekotowska" for her haute couture designs. 

Her pronounced taste for arts, cinema and 

literature influence the spirit of her collections, all of 

which include her overall contemporary and glamorous 

style. 

From 2002 to 2006 Laure K presented her collections 

within the sphere of the prestigious Chambre 

Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne. She has been 

involved, for over 10 years, as designer and artistic 

director for a large number of different projects in 

advertising, theater, cinema and merchandising. 

She is not only a designer , but also a traveler , 

and an artist of the world , who seeks inspiration 

from every culture and background. Her brand is 

a lifestyle- a universe of design, interiors and art. 

Laure's work is a glimpse inside her heart, whether 

it's through her sculptures, paintings or couture designs. 

She loves taking inspiration from all the classical 

silhouettes of original French Haute Couture , giving 

her personal interpretation with a Rock'n Roll 

Touch . 

Materials such as lace and silk are dominant and the 

use of glitter with various gems provide the perfect 

union of femininity and mystery while leather and 

fur achieve a mystical contrast. 

The corsets were made according to the methods 

of traditional French corset-making while respecting 

the recent evolution of the human body’s morphology. 

Finishing touches are made in the studio respecting 

the rules of French "Haute Couture" . 

This new line named “Couture To Wear " is a line 

with the esthetics of couture and the availability 

of ready to wear. LK PARIS, remains faithful to her 

glamorous references. 

It is this season a little more shine and rhinestones 

on black background. A small side more Rock and 

Swinging London, and winks to classics such as 

Chanel and Saint Laurent, revisited by the designer. 

Jackets more noticeable, with clean cuts, finish with 

jetties of rhinestones, to complete the black lace 

dresses. 

As usual, the collection travels , and stands impeccable 

at all times. 

The new line is a result of her exploration within 

dark allurement and glamorous appeal of the confident 

woman. It includes dresses, corsets, and jackets, 

of intense hues of black with accents of gold 

and silver. 

www.urbanreflectionbylk.com 

The particularity of this collection is to ally comfort 

and style. 




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

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










PANDORA’s collection of outstanding jewelry features raw, 

elegant designs inspired by rock style with a hint of vintage 

and a bit of attitude. 

PANDORA bracelets give women the freedom to capture 

the unforgettable moments that make life extraordinary 

and the new charms of the fall season offer a twist on 

what has become the hallmark of the PANDORA brand. 

Two elegant sterling silver bracelets are also new–one is 

designed to hold one traditional or new decorative clip, 

the other as many as five. Mix, match and combine the clips 

and bracelets in any combination, creating pieces that are 

unique to your personal style. It’s an idea inspired by PAN- 

DORA’s popular charm bracelet. 

Create and combine looks with other new additions to 

the PANDORA universe, including a line of 14k solid gold 

earrings, pendants and dangle charms with intricate lace 

details and diamonds; and large cocktail rings, featuring 

amethyst or grey moonstone, that are perfect for stacking. 

Stunning earrings inspired by delicate lace patterns in 14K 

gold with freshwater pearls and diamonds can be worn on 

their own, layered or combined with other pieces from the 

Compose collection. Rings in 14K gold, sterling and black 

oxidized silver have florally inspired designs with an unpredictable 

twist that is raw yet feminine. 

Large cocktail rings in amethyst or grey moonstone are 

perfect for stacking with this season’s more delicate pieces. 

New LovePod rings in white, yellow and rose 18K gold with 

brilliant-cut diamonds or colorful gemstones work beautifully 

with other pieces of PANDORA jewelry and interlock 

when stacked together. 

The spirit of nostalgic rock infuses the collection, especially 

our new sterling silver decorative clips in raw, sculptural 

shapes. The other standouts include a star-shaped pendant 

and charm in black oxidized silver, an alluring finish that 

runs through the collection.

Jacket: Sanctuary 

Body Suit: Nike 

Tights: Pretty Polly 

Bra: Victoria Secret 

Fur: Vintage (Stylist’s Grandmother) 


evitalizationBy Deb Reynolds 

Photographer: Lesley Pedraza 

Model: Jacqueline Depaul - Wilhelmina Agency 

Hair: Carla Ross - More Than A Slash Salon/Academy 

Make-up: Daniel Chinchilla 

Styling: Lauren Gold 

Location: More Than a Slash Salon/Academy 



Model: Jacqueline Depaul 

Dress: BCBG 

Pearls: Express 

Fur: Vintage (Stylist’s Grandmother) 

Our celebrity diva, in great shape as she 

partied at the latest hot spot last night and 

didn’t leave until the morning, emerges looking 

a little worse for wear. 

It is business as usual as she moved around 

the room like a queen working her contacts 

and maintaining her professional lifeline. 

Whether she is picking out the benefits, 

product launches, film after-parties or just 

frequenting the LA hotspots, she must keep 

up appearances. 

Going from award shows to elaborate costumed 

soirees every other night of the week 

can leave a diva in dire need of some serious 

aid from her entourage. There’s no free 

party pass there. 

The morning-after remedy for this diva is to 

dial up her top stylist who puts her through 

her paces. Her team works its magic to bring 

back the flawless looking diva. Once again, 

she is red carpet ready and making people 

wonder, “Is she born with it?” 

Every time she steps out there are cameras 

aiming at her, but our diva shows no concern 

as she readies herself to sign a few autographs, 

and board the limousine en route to 

the next gala bash. 




Sunglasses: Kaenon 

Robe: Kimono 





Dress: All Saints



Dress: BCBG Runway 

Necklace: BCBG 





Dress: Edison F. Cortez 

Shoes: Via Spiga 

Bracelet and Earrings: Forever 21



Dress: Edison F. Cortez 

Earrings and Bracelet: Forever 21 


Taste 

of 

Glamour 

VincentGotti 


Photographer: Vincent Gotti 

Model: Anita Spoljar 

Creative Director: Niccanor 

Hair Stylist/ Makeup Artist: Ozzie Mendoza 

Dress: JOVANI (www.bridetobecouture.com) 





















Dress: OLVI’S (www.bridetobecouture.com)







Dress: JOVANI (www.bridetobecouture.com)



Australia 

From 

Style 

with 

by Dan Myricks 

As she glides into a couch at New York’s Bowery Hotel in a black leather Dior jacket and razorblade 

heels, Australian fashion entrepreneur Davina Reichman Schuck looks every inch the 

glamorous fasionista. 

Since starting NYC Fashion Runway 2 years ago, the company has become the go-to for independent 

and emerging designers, giving them stardom, publicity and buyers. 

“NYC Fashion Runway is a chance to get designers noticed with runway shows, promotion and 

business customers. It’s a thrill to seek out the next independent designer and make them 

famous”, said Ms Schuck. 

As she talks and laughs, you can see that she is a genuine home-grown Aussie woman with a 

warm vibe. Davina is the leggiest MBA you’ll ever see, a successful fashion entrepreneur with 

2 successful companies under her belt – Being Born Again Couture (www.beingbornagain.net) 

collaborating famous fashion designers with artists to create high-end garments, and iClothing 

(www.iclothing.com.au): iPad compatible clothing, inspired by Kangaroos’ pouches. 

A career in fashion event management, marketing and public relations is not for the fainthearted. 

It can be glamorous - organizing parties and fashion shows, marketing cool concepts, 

mingling with celebrities - and rewarding, but expect to work hard. 

“Success is doing what you absolutely love. Be passionate, maintain focus on things you can 

control and work hard. Innovate: don't blend in with everyone else. That’s why we started NYC 

Fashion Runway,” says the fashion entrepreneur. 


Technology 

in a Hectic World 

The advancements in technology, including devices such as smartphones 

and tablets, offer users a customized experience based on 

their own preferences and taste. Today’s technology provides us 

with a world of information and entertainment options to make 

life easier. 

It’s no secret that devices such as smartphones and tablets are 

useful little devices. In fact, a recent study shows that about onethird 

of all U.S. households now own a tablet, and this number 

is expected to climb. Some products put these advancements to 

use by offering personalized experiences for the user. One such 

product, PressReader, provides people with access to thousands 

of the world’s best-loved newspapers and magazines on their 

computers, smartphones, tablets and e-readers. But beyond the 

news, these special innovations can also greatly improve options 

for other things, such as enhanced entertainment options. 

Entertainment on your time 

New features on devices make pulling up a favorite album or 

checking out the latest comedy movie a breeze. For those looking 

to expand their musical knowledge or just enjoy their favorite artists, 

the Spotify app allows users free access to millions of songs. 

Plus, this app allows you to build your own collection of playlists 

so you have tunes to fit any occasion. If you’re looking to catch 

up on a hit television series or new movie, the Netflix app allows 

users to pick from thousands of titles with the touch of a button. 

If you enjoy watching the latest viral videos, the YouTube app 

allows you to catch them all. The app also provides recommendations 

based on previously watched videos, a voice search option 

and the ability to share videos using your favorite social media 

platforms. The best part about all of these apps is the ability to 

use them at any time you desire, all from your device. 


Hand-picked news 

Personal devices make receiving news easier than ever before. 

Now users can customize exactly the kind of news they want, 

where they get it and how they receive it. Long before smartphones 

and tablets, people relied only on print newspaper as 

their primary source for information. With the advent of apps like 

PressReader, people can pick from over 2,000 publications. It’s a 

portable digital newsstand that offers the convenience of offline 

and online reading anytime, anywhere. This app makes it easy 

for business travelers to catch up with their favorite hometown 

publication while they’re thousands of miles from home. Business 

owners in the hospitality, retail and transportation industries can 

also use this service as an added perk to offer to guests during 

their stay and has been an effective way for businesses to maintain 

their competitive advantage. 

Thanks to technology, our lives are easier and more convenient 

with faster access to information and customized content. With 

aggregated services like PressReader, Spotify, and NetFlix, you 

only need one platform to get everything you need. In a hectic 

world, these handy tools can make lives a little less stressful. 


www.pressreader.com 

DELL XPS 18 Portable All-in-One Desktop

Spicing Up Sarasota Dining 

Gulf coast residents and visitors in search of new dining destinations 

will find some palate-pleasing options in store at The Mall 

at University Town Center, now under construction in Sarasota, 

Fla. Taubman Centers, Inc. (NYSE: TCO) and Benderson Development 

Company, LLC today revealed five restaurants – all new to 

the market – opening with the center next year. 

The 880,000-square-foot, $315-million Mall at University Town 

Center opens Oct. 16, 2014. With anchors Saks Fifth Avenue, 

Macy’s and Dillard’s and more than 100 specialty stores and restaurants, 

the center will be the region’s dominant shopping and 

dining destination. 

Spicing up the local dining scene is the center’s premier collection 

of restaurants, all new to the Sarasota market: 

-BRIO Tuscan Grille, serving authentic, northern Italian cuisine 

made from the finest and freshest ingredients in a Tuscan villa 

atmosphere; 

-The Capital Grille, a fine-dining establishment renowned for its 

dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, award-winning wine list and personalized, 

professional service; 

-The Cheesecake Factory, a popular full-service restaurant known 

for its extensive menu, generous portions and legendary desserts; 

-Kona Grill, offering modern American favorites, award-winning 

sushi and seasonally inspired menus in a casually elegant atmosphere; 

and 

-Seasons 52 fresh grill and wine bar, featuring natural cooking 

techniques, the freshest ingredients at the peak of ripeness and 

an award-winning international wine list. 

The Mall at University Town Center opens Oct. 16, 2014. Located 

at I-75 and University Parkway, this world-class fashion and dining 

destination will feature approximately 880,000 square feet of retail 

space with Saks Fifth Avenue, Macy's, Dillard's and more than 

100 stores and restaurants. The shopping center will feature many 

distinctive retailers not found anywhere else in the local market, 

offering customers a diverse mix of fashion and lifestyle retailers, 

popular favorites, sit-down restaurants and a children's play area. 

www.themallatuniversitytowncenter.com 

ECHO Vintage Books & Vinyl 

Providing Downtown Fort Myers With A Great Afternoon Relaxer 

Open to the public Thursday-Saturday from 11:00am to 

5:00pm, ECHO Vintage Books & Vinyl serves as one of 

Downtown Fort Myers’ greatest treasures. The book and 

record store, that houses the area’s largest selection of rare, 

out of print and hard 

to find books and 

records, offers the 

public the enjoyment 

of relaxation at its 

finest; nothing quite 

compares to shuffling 

through old records 

searching for that one 

great hit, or scanning 

the shelves upon 

shelves of genuine 

book collections, pleased to find that there is something for 

everyone! 

The shop is serves as retail for books and records primarily, 

but customers are pleasantly surprised by the large array 

of specialty gifts that are also available. If vintage gifts 

and memorabilia, comic books, ephemera, stamps, or retro 

clothes strike your fancy ECHO Vintage Books & Vinyl is 

your one stop shop. The store is also a great thought for the 

gift buyer as it is home to collection of vintage birthday and 

celebratory cards and gift ideas! 

Take a stroll through the one-of-a-kind shop at 793 Fowler 

Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901. 

By Kayla DaCosta 


WELLINGTON WARD ART SHOW 

World-renowned artist Wellington Ward hosted his first art show in 

more than a decade November 26 with more than 350 guests at the 

Colonial Country Club. Among the guests were his two sons, Ben Ward 

of Fort Myers and Sam Ward, USA TODAY senior illustrator, who lives 

in Sarasota. 

Ward, whose works have been commissioned four times by the National 

Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), displayed more than 

100 works of art – many of which had never been exhibited previously. 

Ward said anyone who is interested in purchasing any of the artwork 

can contact him at 239-466-5476. 

“It was a wonderful night reconnecting with old friends and seeing their 

reaction to some of my most popular images, which were joined by 

newer pieces,” he said. Ward said he sold 19 prints during the evening. 

Ward had been absent from the local art scene for many years while 

caring for his wife Barbara, the former principal of the Sanibel School, 

who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s 15 years ago. Ward was her sole 

caregiver until her condition deteriorated a few years ago and she was 

moved to a full-time care facility, where he visits her several times each 

week. 

Ward, working in acrylics and pencil drawings, is best known locally 

for his realistic portrayal of marine life, shrimp boats, and landscapes, 

many of which were captured from the back yard of the couple’s former 

home on Connie Mack Island. His subject matter has been described 

as “the land, the sea, and much of what lies between.” 

“This reminds me so much of the fish shacks I used to see as a boy 

all over Southwest Florida. They are all gone now,” said long-time 

resident John Sheppard after purchasing the print “Summer Solitude.” 

Ward is best known locally for his series of pencil sketches created to 

honor the 100th birthday of the City of Fort Myers, which were the main 

fund-raiser for the city’s Centennial Celebration in 1985. The prints 

currently hang in banks and professional offices throughout Southwest 

Florida. 

Ward’s love of the area is evident in his philanthropic endeavors, which 

has included creating an original painting of Thomas Edison that sold 

for $50,000 to benefit the restoration of the Edison and Ford Winter 

Estates. 

A subsequent series of three original pencil sketches of Henry Fordthemed 

montages brought in $20,000 during the annual Edison-Ford 

Winter Estates Foundation Gala in 2009. 

Art has been Ward’s life’s work which includes a career as an art director 

for the Department of Defense. Raised in Virginia, Ward attended 

art school at the Richmond Professional Institute, now known as Virginia 

Commonwealth University. He moved to Southwest Florida with his 

family in the early 1970s and now makes his home in South Fort Myers. 

Maureen McMenemy, Ben Ward and Wellington Ward 

with door prize artwork 


Howard and Nancy Wheeler of Fort Myers 

Harriet Hart and Lisa Armstrong of Fort Myers 

General (Ret.) James Dozier and Sharlene Hamel Dozier of Fort Myers 


Marlene Smith, Cis Roberts and Michael Garner, catering director of 

Colonial Country Club

Your Piece ofARTBy 

Ian Howes 

Past is Past - by Gael Collar 

When you look at abstract paintings, it is easy to be mesmerized 

by the usage of color and the perception of the 

artist. You can in reality think of abstract paintings like 

those of memories in oils of the windy city of Chicago or 

sunrises of the gulf. You can see how artist catch the nub 

of a city life or coastal landscape, with recurring characteristics 

like wet roadways, people or large buildings. For 

those who look at other forms of abstract painting, you 

will be highly struck with seascape art. You will cherish 

the innate colorful floral of lilies and pop’s of environmental 

tones. You and only you can really identify with a painting 

more than anybody else. 

I conceive you will really appreciate and enjoy as you examine 

the detail of each brush stroke. Each piece is regarded 

to be a very unique collection when you look at 

closely, you can scarcely recognize details the artist has 

thoroughly included. You will discover how some images 

have an organic and well defined appearance. When a 

painter draws, he or she tries to mix their own perceptual 

experiences with colors and expression. Some early collections 

are painted in a quite unparalleled style. Some 

start off with their canvas covered with a primer so that a 

gentle clean texture is created. A cloth is attached to the 

canvas and the whole painting is done on the cloth. When 

you view the paintings, you will feel like the cloth is part 

of the original oil painting. In most paintings, the cloth 

acts as a curtain which is hanging behind the art. 

Now that you purchased your oil painting, you 

now will need to look after it, even if you only 

paid a small amount for. Regardless of whether 

it was a relatively costly piece of art or not, you purchased 

your abstract painting because it meant a great 

deal to you and you enjoy looking at it. You can always 

make the painting last a very long time if you take very 

good care of it. The way you look after your canvas abstract 

painting, matters a lot. You can't just clean the oil 

paintings in the same way you'd clean some pieces of 

artwork, or some pieces of furniture, for that matter. Oil 

paintings done on canvas require special care if they are 

to be enjoyed for a long while. 

Your abstract painting was worth the time and effort when 

you bought it. It could be because you feel this piece of 

artwork really speaks to you. Continue enjoying your abstract 

paintings, make sure that you take good care of it 

and protect it from harm. 

How can you look after your Abstract Paintings? 

Here are some basic guidelines. 

The conditions in the room where you place your abstract 

canvas painting, can seriously affect the condition of your 

painting itself. In an ideal world Abstract Paintings done on 

canvas should be put where heat and humidity are not going 

to cause it a problem. You shouldn't put your paintings 

anywhere where they open to heat, such as ovens, radiators 

or fireplaces. Also you should not place your canvas 

oil paintings in a room where the air does not move, such 

as a bath room where there are no vents. Too much heat 

will damage the abstract paintings and too much moisture 

will encourage mold to really grow on it. One thing that 

you should try to avoid when placing your abstract paintings 

in a room is direct sunlight. Exposure to ultra violet 

sunrays can cause the painted canvas to fade over time. 

The correct way to clean and Store abstract paintings 

How you clean your abstract oil paintings helps to maintain 

the overall quality of the oil painting. When you clean 

oil paintings on canvas, it is enough that you dust it very 

lightly and gently with a fine very dry and lint free cloth, 

a softest and clean brush, or maybe with a feather-type 

duster. The best way to clean canvas oil paintings is to 

brush it with downward strokes from top to bottom, including 

the framing. What you should not do when cleaning 

your abstract paintings is to spray it with water or with 

chemical cleaners. These will definitely ruin the look of 

the painting. Do not touch any part of the surface of the 

painted canvas. The oils on your skin can react with the 

paints and damage the look of the painting. As for moving 

and storing your oil paintings, ensure that you cover the 

front of the oil painting first before you move it. You can 

put bobble wrap round the painting itself to provide better 

protection. This will definitely help to prevent your canvas 

from getting dented. 


Film Night 

Once a year an exhibition of creativity ignites the young 

and the adult minds alike. This year’s 12th edition of Art 

Basel Miami Beach, provided a center of inspiration. With an 

expanded Public sector and a vibrantly diverse line-up of talks, 

performances and film screenings, the quality of works exhibited 

was matched by the show's programming. The 12th edition 

was described by many observers as the strongest-ever Art Basel 

show in Miami Beach. Featuring 258 leading international galleries 

from across 31 countries, the show confirmed its positioning as 

the leading art fair of the Americas.. Coming together to encourage 

an ever-deeper understanding and enjoyment of art with national 

and international audiences. The show attracted over 50,000 visitors, 

from across the world. From renowned collectors to the next 

generation of collectors. 

Lisson 

If you have never attended Art Basel Miami Beach one visit leaves 

a profound effect on you. From the hundreds of galleries to the 

7,000-square-foot outdoor projection wall, the presentations were all 

unique and stunning. Each year presents something new and imaginative, 

supporting all levels of creativity among artists both young and 

old. The exhibitions demonstrated unparalleled performances. Starting 

with the opening night by Theaster Gates and the Black Monks of Mississippi, 

Sanford Biggers and Moon Medicine, and the Alalaô collective 

presenting Ronald Duarte. There was also an outside experience presented 

by the Bass Museum of Art and Art Public, which transformed 

Collins Park into several unique artworks and performances. 

In addition to ambitious stands featuring leading galleries from around 

the world, each show's exhibition sectors spotlight the latest developments 

in the visual arts, offering visitors new ideas, new inspiration 

and new contacts in the art world. 

Art Basel in Miami Beach, whose Lead Partner is UBS, attracted an attendance 

of 75,000 over the five show days, a seven percent increase 

over last year. Over 140 museum and institution groups from across 

the world – as well as renowned private collectors from the Americas, 

Europe, Asia and emerging markets – attended the show. 

The event also provided opportunities for you to parley with others in 

conversations which reach far beyond the canvas, as live Q&A’s of the 

newest artistic practices for now and into the future, was discussed. 

Art Basel Miami Beach confirms that high-quality work remains in 

strong demand and provides an ideal opportunity to discover the 

newest artistic tendencies. 

Art 

Basel 

Miami Beach 

Jeppe Hein 



Crown Point Press 

Bonakdar 

K Lelong 

Karma International 

Gagosian 

Richard Long 

Photo courtesy of Art Basel 

Aaron Curry 

HellyNahmad 

Film Screening 


ANIMA DOMUS15TH ANNIVERSARY 

Photo courtesy of WORLD RED EYE 

Italian furniture showroom Anima Domus celebrated its 15th anniversary 

at the company’s new space in the Miami Design District 

on December 5th, 2013. The event brought together five esteemed 

contemporary furniture brands from Italy, Cierre Imbottiti, 

CLEI, Fiam Italia, Porada and Presotto Italia, as well as Swedish 

designer rug brand Henzel Studio, who commemorated the U.S. 

launch of their new Diamond Dust / Nordic Raw collection. 

To complement the designs, artist and expert winemaker Bret 

Lopez created a temporary installation of his large-scale photography. 

Of the artworks on display, one was raffled during the event 

with proceeds of the ticket sales donated directly to Children’s 

Bereavement Center. 

Anima Domus Owners Marconi and Sylvia Naziazeni welcomed 

guests including Consul General of Italy Adolfo Barattolo, South 

Beach Wine & Food Festival founder Lee Schrager, Dr. Ricardo 

Restrepo, President of Miami’s Italian Chamber of Commerce 

Gianluca Fontani, CLEI Owner Luca Colombo, Designers and Owners 

of Henzel Studio Calle and Asa Henzel, Presotto Italia Director 

Fabio Vettorel, Cierre Imbottiti’s General Manager Gianmaria 

Conficconi, Son of Porada founder Roberto Allievi and Commercial 

Director of Porada Mauro Nastri. 

Anima Domus was founded in 1998 by husband and wife, Marconi and Silvia Naziazeni, who turned from a small family operation into Miami’s supreme destination for high-end contemporary 

Italian home furnishings. Ranging from conception of layouts, elevations, and customized 3D drawings, to site visits and the final installation of furniture in a selection of designer materials, Anima 

Domus is a full service company. With its emphasis on understanding the needs of individual clients and catering specifically to those needs, Anima Domus has become a leading resource for interior 

furnishings in South Florida. Anima Domus extends special consideration for the trade, offering services including project development, fabric selection, custom wall units, space saving solutions and 

closet development that are geared uniquely towards facilitating an easier purchasing process for its trade clients. 

Anima Domus is located in Aventura at 18245 Biscayne Blvd, Aventura, FL 33160. (305) 705-9975 

Anima Domus is located in the Design District at 101 NE 40th Street, Miami, FL 33137. (305) 576-9088 

www.animadomus.com 


Artist Gallery 

Godgifu - by Le Vuong 

Gold Rush - by MichaelO 


MOHAWK ART - by Andreas Franke

Paradise - by Mary Taglieri 

Escape Familiar Home - by Tony Myles 


Child’s painting auctioned at Wine Fest event 

A love of racing games and Hot Wheels cars were the inspiration for 

the artwork created by nine-year-old Jay Aponte, child artist for the 

2014 Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest. His original watercolor 

and pencil painting will be auctioned at the Wine Fest Grand Tasting 

and Auction Saturday, Feb. 22. Jay is a frequent visitor to Golisano 

Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, having been diagnosed with 

leukemia in December 2011. 

Aponte’s mother, Luz Aponte, suspected something was wrong with 

her son on Christmas Day, 2011. “He just wasn’t the person I knew; 

the little boy running around, expecting presents for Christmas. Christmas 

Day was not a good day.” 

The following morning, she took Aponte to an urgent care facility. By 

then, he had developed red spots on his legs. The doctor wanted to 

run a blood test and after 45 minutes of waiting for the results, Mrs. 

Aponte was given the startling news. It was leukemia. She recalled, 

“The doctor told me to go directly to the Children’s Hospital in Fort 

Myers. He said do not go home, but go there now. I was scared, but 

that’s what we did.” 

After additional tests confirmed the diagnosis, Jay began treatment. 

Although a frightening situation, Mrs. Aponte was thankful it happened 

when it did. She and her family had just returned from her home 

country of Columbia, South America. She couldn’t help but wonder 

what would have happened had he fallen ill while there, “I’m sure 

they have wonderful doctors, but the health care system is just so 

much better here.” She added she is grateful to the staff at Golisano 

Children’s Hospital for making her feel at ease. “I thank God for the 

people that received me that day. They have made me feel like everything 

was going to be okay since that very first moment. The nurses 

are fantastic and treat us like we’re part of a big family. I don’t have 

the words to thank them enough for everything they’ve done for us.” 

The road has not always been an easy one for Jay, admits his mother. 

Last year was especially tough for him emotionally. “He was very sad 

because he couldn’t do the same things he always had,” Mrs. Aponte 

explained. “He’s not able to be as active as he used to be, so he gets 

frustrated. He’s played soccer since he was three, so he really misses 

that.” However, she says he’s getting better and is more relaxed. “He’s 

a happy boy; funny and laughing.” He’s also back in school at Laurel 

Oak Elementary in Naples. After his diagnosis in the first grade, he 

missed the remainder of that year and much of second grade due to 

his illness. This year, he’s almost full time, which is a big step. 

Being chosen as the child artist for the Wine Fest was a terrific surprise 

for Jay and one that helped lift his spirits. “When they told us 

he was going to do the painting, he said, ‘Oh mommy, I can do that 

because I’m very special, right?’ He was very happy.” 

Mrs. Aponte said Jay was especially excited to work with award-winning 

artist Ellen Sheppard of Fort Myers, who works with a Golisano 

Children’s Hospital patient each year on a creation representing his or 

her favorite things and favorite places, guiding them throughout the 

process. Jay calls Sheppard “a very special person.” 

Still in treatment, Jay takes medicine everyday and goes to the hospital 

every other week for blood work. Every 12 weeks, he receives 

chemotherapy and will continue treatment for another year and a half. 

Although it makes him tired, his mother says he’s doing great and he 

feels comfortable the moment he enters the Children’s Hospital. 

“When I go, it’s like I’m in a house,” Jay says. “I have so much support 

there. It’s not a scary place.” Of course, for him, the best part is 

when he’s done and he gets to go to the gaming room. Racing and 

adventure games are his noted favorites. 

With inspiring stories like Jay’s, it’s no wonder that the children’s artwork 

is typically one of the highest bid lots of the Wine Fest. The 2013 

watercolor, by Ella Sterling, inspired 24 donors to raise $135,000. The 

original pieces have been donated back to the hospital by bidders 

and are featured on a wall in the hospital named in memory of Jerry 

Schmoyer, a long-time supporter of the Wine Fest who lost his battle 

with cancer two years ago. 

The Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest is a two-day event that 

begins with dinners featuring select vintners and local chefs in private 

homes from Fort Myers to Naples Friday, Feb. 21, and concludes with 

a Grand Tasting and Auction the following day, Saturday, Feb. 22 at 

Miromar Lakes Beach & Golf Club. 

The festival is organized by SWFL Children’s Charities Inc., a nonprofit 

organization that provides funding to local children’s causes, and has 

raised more than $8.9 million over the last five years. The primary 

beneficiary is Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida, which 

is scheduled to open in 2017 at HealthPark Medical Center in South 

Fort Myers. The state-of-the-art family-center children’s hospital will 

provide new and expanded pediatric medical services and subspecialty 

services to children from Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades 

counties. 

The Wine Fest also helps support the Edison State College Pediatric 

Nursing Program and Florida Gulf Coast University’s music therapy 

program at the Bower School of Music. 

Title sponsor of the 2014 event is SKANSKA GATES. Additional 

sponsors include FineMark National Bank & Trust, LTC Global, Sam 

Galloway Ford Lincoln, Private Client Insurance Services, Home-Tech 

and Investors’ Security Trust Company. In-kind sponsors are Miromar 

Lakes Beach & Golf Club, Palm Printing/Printers Ink, Angelina’s Ristorante, 

Jason’s Deli and Norman Love Confections. 

For Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest information, contact SWFL 

Children’s Charities Inc. at 239-513-7990. 

www.swflwinefest.org 


The 

ARTBy David Burne 

of Brandon Gould 

Brandon Gould a.k.a. Im_possibleman is a 

very well-known artist who invites his style 

in many other avenues in life. He has worked 

with Victor Rossi, a couture house and have 

made clothes for Miss Maryland 2007 and 

2010. With great local seamstresses, he had 

developed great shades of women’s wear; 

including for plus sized females. In his leisure 

time, he chooses to meet new people, play 

video games with them, and usually party. A 

lifetime artist, many call his work "anime". 

The name of his art style is Violin. It is infused 

with the heart of gaming, the power of heavy 

metal, and the beauty of life. Growing up on 

the Eastern Shore of Maryland, he refined his 

skills inventively. Now, as a fashion designer 

for women’s wear, he brings into life, the life 

of Violin. 


Creating 

Great 

Events 

By Chef Roberta 

If you want be at the top of mind with your guests and media; 

create an “event” production from the moment your 

guests arrive. The successful ingredients include the theme 

and overall design look that has visual elements, entertaining 

food and the right amount of festive atmosphere. 

Here is how our event planners create those events, while 

keeping an eye on the budget. 

The Theme is the message or idea at the will be carried 

throughout the event. It may be a single topic, a destination, 

a period of time, or newest “hot” list, It can be subtle 

or over the top. The most important aspect is that all of the 

elements communicate the same theme. With a cohesive 

theme, your guests enter into a visual world from the moment 

that they receive the invitation to the last goodbye 

that creates and sustains an underlying buzz. 

First “use what you got”. Start with the selection 

of a venue with the theme in mind, instead of the 

“how much” criteria. For example, does your local 

country club have a “Gone with Wind” ambiance with big 

Southern pillars and the grandeur of 2nd story winding 

staircases? A Great Gatsby theme is perfect for a local 


Train Depot. Historical churches and museums have magnificent 

Spanish courtyards. Botanical parks can easily be 

converted to tropical oasis. More importantly, if your venue 

enhances your theme, your budget can be reallocated for 

the entertainment and food. 

Secondly, rethink the entertainment and music and when 

it is scripted into the event. A few trends that we see are 

the TV Reality genre which is driving themes to be more 

genuine. So instead of following the traditional cocktail 

hour, dinner, dancing drill, add an entertainment script so 

your guests feel that they are part of the show from the 

moment they arrive. Instead of a 10 person orchestra 

for the cocktail hour, consider a violin quartet (the music 

script) with strolling violists (the entertainment script). 

Add a cappella choir to greet your guests with additional 

singers who stroll through the cocktail hour. Consider 

Tango or Salsa dance troupes that mingle and dance to 

the background of a Spanish band. Create a visual media 

documentary with plasma screens and techno rock music 

and create small flash mobs with character actors. Add 

interactive scripts with living statutes, palm readers, airbrush 

tattoo artists and photo cutout stations.

You can also just create a “menu nod” to the theme. For 

our 9.11 Tribute to Heroes luncheon for Manatee County 

Emergency Operations, we created an American Parfait 

for dessert, white chocolate mousse with raspberries and 

blueberries, but served in contemporary parfait cups. 

Finally, the catering staff can be dressed in theme appropriate 

costumes. At the All Children’s Hospital Annual fund 

raiser, our strolling waiters were costumed in Moroccan 

shirts and fez caps to compliment the Casa Blanca theme. 

We utilized serving trays that were tiled mirrors and diamond 

shaped crystals for that Moroccan theme. 

By choosing the right venue, utilizing scripted entertainment 

and adding themed menus, your event will be a success, 

that night and for a long time afterwards! 

Finally, select a caterer that can create themed menus that 

will spike your guests’ enthusiasm throughout the entire 

event. A menu theme is based upon complimentary ingredients 

for that period of time, the genre, the geographical 

area and the culture, and fits within our contemporary 

palettes. 

We recreated the first class passengers menu for the Titanic 

opening exhibition. On April 14, 1912, the passengers 

dined on a ten course dinner including Consumme 

Olga, poached salmon with mousseline, lamb with mint 

sauce and pate de fois gras. To keep within the confines 

of the theme and insure that all of the guests ate, we recreated 

these classics. The Consumme Olga (boiled veal 

stock) was converted to pan seared scallops with a brown 

butter drizzle.. The salmon mousseline became grilled 

salmon lollipops served with horseradish crème fraiche. 

The lamb with mint sauce was served with a mint and 

cranberry relish;. Pate de fois gras was served with pan 

seared apple Confit. This menu kept the buzz alive, the 

foodies were ecstatic and the cohesiveness of the theme 

kept the buzz alive. 

Another catering concept is the food preparation that is a 

performance itself. For the MD Anderson Cancer benefit, 

the Old Florida cuisines included a Low Country boil, carving 

stations for BBQ ribs and a live oyster shucking bar. 

The guests were able to interact with the chefs in action. 

Another idea is to consider adding a different method of 

cooking, for example, a wood burning fire pit that cooks 

food in a novel way that will fascinate your guests. 

We are a contemporary, full service catering and event design company. 

We offer services for large galas (over 1,000) to intimate parties of 50, 

from Naples to Tampa Bay. Milan Catering has won several awards over 

the years and Hot List for Tampa Bay, as well as recipients of the Brides 

Choice awards from Martha Stewart’s Wedding Wire that represent the 

top 5% nationwide in wedding professionals. We are approved caterers 

at the finest Tampa, St. Pete and Sarasota venues. Contact us at 

941.312.0000 

www.MilanCatering.com 


Pots Past Their Prime? 

Photo courtesy of Thinkstock 


Mealtime can be a daily challenge no matter the size of your 

household. Part of that challenge can be having the right cookware. 

More than simply tools in the kitchen, cookware is a way 

to enjoy the process of cooking and bring family and friends 

together. The notion of upgrading your cookware may be far from 

mind, but having the right pot or pan will keep family and friends 

coming back for more. 

A recent survey concludes that most Americans own a piece of 

cookware that is approximately 17 years old. This survey also 

reveals that three out of 10 Americans admits to not knowing how 

to properly gauge the wear and tear of their cookware. When 

you know how to properly evaluate your cookware, you’ll have 

confidence in your supplies, making the process of cooking even 

more rewarding. 

Step One: Check Your Cookware 

Look at your pots and pans to assess the wear and tear of each. 

Check for signs of chipping, rusting, or warping that may affect 

the performance. Flip it over and look at the bottom to see if it is 

burned, which could affect how the pot or pan heats. Also, check 

the handles and lids to see if they are bent or missing. 

Step Two: Test It Out 

Once you’ve checked the condition of your cookware, it’s time to 

test it out. Chipping, rusting, and warping can affect the cooking 

or cleanup performance of your pots and pans. Be sure to test 

your cookware to ensure these flaws are only cosmetic. If your 

cookware is nonstick, a good test is to fry an egg – if it sticks to 

your pan then it is likely time to buy yourself a replacement. 

Step Three: Reevaluate Your Needs 

Once you’ve reviewed and tested your cookware, you can decide 

what you should keep, what to reinvest in and what you need to 

recycle. Start by asking yourself how often you cook, how much 

do you cook, and do you find yourself needing different sizes and 

shapes of pans while cooking? 

A good rule of thumb when looking for new cookware is to look 

for pots and pans that are branded by manufacturers with a long 

track record, such as those which carry the DuPont Teflon® 

brand logo. 

Finally, it’s important to feel the cookware in your own hands. Visit 

your local retail store and pick them up. Find out if the handles 

feel comfortable, the weight is good – and if you love the color 

and style. Most of your favorite retail stores have great selections 

to meet your needs. 

www.NothingMessesWithIt.com 


The Lucini Italia Company was founded by 

Renee Frigo and Daniel Graeff on the philosophy 

that great tasting food comes from only 

the most cared-for, high-quality ingredients. 

Our passion is creating authentic, handcrafted 

gourmet foods inspired by the culinary 

traditions of Italy. 

By Meagan Parrado 

Arugula Salad with Walnuts, 

Apples and Fig Balsamic Reduction 

Prepared in small batches using 100% natural 

ingredients, Lucini Italia products offer 

both exceptional taste and culinary performance. 

Our work with small regional farmers, 

celebrated chefs, and health and wellness 

experts continues to provide our customers 

with an unmatched selection of ingredients, 

gourmet recipes, quality-assurance and 

convenience. Meeting the demands of both 

home and professional chefs, the Lucini Italia 

family of products includes award-winning 

extra virgin olive oils, artisan vinegars, gourmet 

tomato and cheese sauces, savory soups 

and a special collection of limited production 

organic items. 

Serves 4 – 5 

For the reduction: 

1/2 cup Lucini® Savory Fig Balsamico 

For the vinaigrette: 

1/2 cup Lucini® Extra Virgin Olive Oil 

3 tbsp Lucini® Pinot Grigio Italian Wine Vinegar 

For the salad: 

6 cups arugula 

2 cups chopped endive 

2 Fuji apples, unpeeled, cored, thinly sliced 

6 ounces Spanish Manchego cheese, shaved 

1 1/2 cups pitted dates, sliced 

1 cup roasted walnuts 

4 large shallots, minced 


Instructions: 

Pour the balsamic vinegar in a small sauce pot over high 

heat. Whisk briskly, even prior to boiling. Once it starts boiling, 

keep whisking constantly to prevent burning. Continue 

until the sauce reduces by half and is of a syrupy consistency. 

Remove from heat and set aside. 

Whisk oil and Pinot Grigio vinegar in bowl. Season with salt 

and pepper. 

Toss arugula, endive, apples, half of cheese, dates, walnuts, 

and shallots in large bowl with enough vinaigrette to 

coat. Season salad with salt and pepper. 

Mound salad in center of each plate. Drizzle balsamic syrup 

around salads. Sprinkle remaining cheese atop salads.

Slow Roasted Halibut with Porcini and Barolo Sauce 

Serves 4 

Slow Roasted Halibut 

1 1/2 tbsp Lucini® Extra Virgin Olive Oil 

4 halibut fillets, about 6 ounces each, skinned 

¼ cup dry white wine 

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 

Preheat the oven to 300F 

Add the olive oil to a shallow baking dish. Place the 

fish fillets in the baking dish and turn to coat them. 

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Spoon the 

wine around the fish. Bake until the fish just flakes, 

about 20 minutes. 

Top with sauce below and serve immediately. 

Porcini and Barolo Sauce 

1.5 oz dried Porcini mushrooms 

1 tbsp Lucini® Extra Virgin Olive Oil 

1/3 cup minced shallots 

½ tsp red chili flakes 

3 cloves garlic, minced 

1 tbsp minced fresh thyme or 2 tsp dried thyme 

2 tbsp fresh Italian parsley, minced 

1/3 lb crimini mushrooms sliced thin 

½ cup Barolo wine or dry red wine 

2 cups Lucini® Organic Whole Tuscan Plum Tomatoes, 

pureed in a blender 

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 

Instructions: 

Visit www.lucini.com for more recipes 

Place dried mushrooms in a bowl and cover with boiling water. Leave mushrooms to rehydrate (about 15-20 minutes). 

Coat the bottom of a heavy bottom skillet with olive oil, sauté the shallots and chili flakes until soft. Add garlic and 

thyme and sauté for a few more minutes, however don’t let garlic brown. Add crimini mushrooms and salt and pepper. 

After some of the moisture has started to sweat out of the mushrooms, about 5 minutes, add the wine and let reduce 

in half. 

Remove the dried mushrooms from soaking liquid with a slotted spoon and reserve liquid. Rough chop the mushrooms 

and add to the sauté pan. Pour the mushroom water into the sauté pan straining through a fine sieve or cheese cloth. 

When the liquid has evaporated by 1/3 add the tomatoes. Cook tomatoes for approximately 5 minutes and finish with 

Italian parsley. 


Lemon Roasted Chicken with Potatoes and Herbs 

Serves 4 – 6 

2 lbs chicken legs, thighs and breasts, bone in and 

skin on 

¼ cup Lucini® Delicate Lemon Infused Extra Virgin 

Olive Oil 

3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, cut in long strips 

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese 

1 large onion, sliced 

1 tbsp oregano 

¼ cup parsley, chopped 

1 Meyer lemon, sliced into pieces 

Lucini® Extra Virgin Olive Oil 

Kosher salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste 

Visit www.lucini.com for more recipes 

Instructions: 

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. 

In a large bowl, cover the chicken with the lemon infused olive oil and work around with your hands to fully coat the 

chicken. Remove chicken from bowl and place on a paper towel. Salt and pepper both sides of the chicken. Sprinkle 

half of the Parmesan cheese over the chicken. 

Coat the bottom of a large casserole or baking dish with olive oil and place the chicken in skin side up. Add the potato 

strips and onion, covering the chicken. Add chopped herbs and remaining cheese. Generously coat with olive oil and 

mix around to ensure everything is coated. Add the lemon slices through out the dish and pour a ¼ cup of water in 

each corner of the dish. 

Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 90 minutes. Turn potatoes and chicken every 20 minutes or so. 

Serve with a drizzle of lemon infused olive oil. 


Eat 

Hearty 

& 

Healthy 

By Keri Glassman, MS, RD 

By 

choosing 

the right 

ingredients 

and having 

inspirational 

recipes on 

hand, you 

can use food 

to comfort 

both your 

mind and 

body 


The expression “you are what you eat” doesn’t mean if you eat a carrot, you 

ARE a carrot but the popular slogan certainly rings true in that eating healthy, 

nutritious foods can help lead to a healthy, well-functioning body that performs 

its best. 

The following cheat sheet of “superfoods,” taken from Keri Glassman’s Disease- 

Preventing Recipe Collection, are items to look for at the grocery store. With the 

exception of lean sirloin, all of these ingredients are low in saturated fat and 

cholesterol and most are chock full of nutrients that may help keep your body 

in peak condition, fight off infections and prevent chronic diseases. In a country 

where obesity and type 2 diabetes rates are skyrocketing and cardiovascular 

disease is the number one cause of death, having a healthy lifestyle with foods 

like these is more important than ever. 

Brown Rice 

Brown rice doesn’t just differ from white rice 

in color – it has greater health benefits as a 

whole grain with more fiber, vitamins and 

minerals, such as iron and magnesium. Dietary 

fiber has been shown to reduce blood 

cholesterol levels, which may help lower the 

risk of heart disease. 

Brussels Sprouts 

This true powerhouse is a good source of 

fiber, vitamins C and K, folate, potassium 

and calcium. At only 56 calories per cup, 

Brussels sprouts also contain many phytochemicals, 

which studies show may reduce 

the risk of cancer, heart disease, high blood 

pressure and diabetes. 

Canola Oil 

With the least saturated fat and most omega-3 

fat of all cooking oils, canola oil delivers 

on heart health. It is free of trans fat and 

cholesterol, a good source of vitamins E and 

K, and contains plant sterols. The U.S. Food 

and Drug Administration authorized a qualified 

health claim for canola oil on its potential 

to reduce the risk of heart disease when 

used in place of saturated fat. 

Carrots 

These colorful root vegetables are fat-free 

with few calories and lots of fiber. Carrots 

contain vitamin C as well as carotenoids like 

beta-carotene, which studies have linked to 

reduced risk of heart disease. 

“Superfoods” 

Chicken Breast 

The leanest part of a chicken, a skinless 

chicken breast has roughly 24 grams of 

complete protein, less than 1 gram of saturated 

fat and less cholesterol than most 

other meats. Chicken also contains iron, B 

vitamins and the trace mineral selenium. 

Chickpeas 

Also known as garbanzo beans and the 

main ingredient in hummus, chickpeas have 

a low glycemic index, which means they 

won’t raise blood sugar levels significantly. 

They’re also a source of protein, folate, 

manganese and fiber, which aids in digestive 

and colon health. 

Halibut 

This white, thick fish is the largest of all 

saltwater fishes. It is an excellent source of 

protein and omega-3 fat, which may help 

protect the heart. Halibut is also a source 

of B vitamins, potassium and magnesium.

Lemon-Walnut Chicken & Spiced Kale Chips 

Lemon combines with tarragon, white wine and black pepper to give zest to chicken 

breasts for a terrific everyday meal. Walnuts add crunch and, along with canola oil, 

is among the best sources of plant-based omega-3 fat. 

Yield: 4 servings. Serving Size: 1 chicken breast. 

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 

1/4 tsp pepper 

2 tsp canola oil, divided 

1 large shallot, chopped 

1 Tbsp cornstarch 

1 cup low-sodium, fat-free chicken broth 

1/2 cup white wine 

2 fresh lemons, juiced 

2 Tbsp lemon zest 

1 tsp tarragon 

1/4 tsp black pepper 

1/4 tsp granulated sugar 

4 fresh lemon wheels 

1/4 cup chopped walnuts 

Instructions: 

1. Preheat oven to 400 °F. 

2. Sprinkle chicken breast with pepper. In large, non-stick 

sauté pan, heat 1 tsp canola oil over high heat and pan 

sear chicken for 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. 

Then roast chicken in oven for 25 minutes until cooked. 

Spiced Kale Chips 

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

Kale is the new rock star in the produce aisle – 

it’s packed with vitamins and minerals and tastes 

great to boot. These baked “chips” will even appeal 

to kids. Canola oil aids in the absorption of 

kale’s fat-soluble vitamins. 

1 small bunch kale, stems removed and sliced 

into 1/2-inch strips 

1 Tbsp canola oil 

4 cloves garlic, minced 

1/4 tsp salt 

1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper 

1/8 tsp cayenne pepper 

Instructions: 

1. Preheat oven to 400° F. 

2. In large bowl, combine kale, canola oil and garlic, tossing 

to coat. Season with salt, black pepper and cayenne. 

Transfer to small baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, 

tossing once halfway through. 

3. In same sauté pan, heat remaining 1 tsp canola oil over 

medium-high heat. Add shallots and sauté 3-5 minutes until 

golden. Add cornstarch and stir until incorporated. Add 

chicken broth, wine, lemon juice and zest, tarragon, pepper 

and sugar and cook about 5 minutes, stirring often. 

4. Transfer chicken to serving platter, pour sauce over it 

and top with walnuts and lemon wheels. Serve with Spiced 

Kale Chips. 


Vegetarian Portobello Mushroom Stack Over Quinoa 

This colorful, earthy dish offers a medley of powerhouse ingredients from 

protein-rich quinoa and chickpeas to vitamin-dense portobello mushrooms 

and red pepper. Canola oil’s light texture complements other ingredients 

without weighing them down. 

Quinoa: 

1 tsp canola oil 

1/4 large sweet onion, chopped 

2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 

1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed 

1 tsp cumin 

2 cup low-sodium vegetable broth 

Mushroom Stack: 

2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 

1/2 tsp dried thyme 

2 Tbsp sherry wine vinegar 

2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar 

1 Tbsp canola oil 

1 red pepper, cored and sliced lengthwise 

4 portobello mushrooms, stems removed and rinsed 

1 cup cooked chickpeas 

1/2 Tbsp canola oil 

1 large sweet onion, sliced into half moons 

1/4 tsp salt 

Visit www.canolainfo.org for healthy recipes 

Instructions: 

1. Preheat oven to 350° F. To prepare quinoa, in 2-quart saucepan, heat canola oil over medium heat. Add onion and 

garlic and sauté 2-3 minutes. Add quinoa and cumin, sauté another minute. Add vegetable broth and bring to boil. Cover 

pan, reduce heat to low and simmer 10-15 minutes until liquid is absorbed. 

2. To prepare mushroom stack, in small bowl, whisk garlic, thyme, sherry and balsamic vinegars and 1 Tbsp canola oil. 

Dip red pepper slices in marinade and place on small baking sheet. Dip each mushroom in marinade, coating both sides, 

and place on half of large, parchment-lined baking sheet. Toss chickpeas in remaining marinade and place on other half 

of large baking sheet. Bake all 30 minutes, turning mushrooms and red pepper and tossing chickpeas once halfway 

through. 

3. Set mushrooms and red peppers aside and add chickpeas to cooked quinoa. 

4. In large sauté pan, heat 1/2 Tbsp canola oil over medium-high heat, add sliced onions and toss to coat with oil. Cook 

7-8 minutes, sprinkle with pinch of salt and cook 10-12 minutes longer, stirring frequently until caramelized (onions will 

be a rich brown and smell sweet). 

5. To serve, place 1 cup quinoa on each plate, top with one portobello mushroom (gill side down), three or four slices 

red pepper and caramelized onion. 


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!

Kale 

The new rock star in the produce aisle, kale has several 

nutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammator 

properties. It contains vitamins C, E and K plus beta-carotene; 

thiamin, riboflavin and folate; iron and 

magnesium; fiber and phytochemicals that may help 

ward off chronic diseases. 

Portobello Mushrooms 

One serving of these delicious, large brown mushrooms 

contains only 42 calories and 1 gram of fat. 

Portobellos are a source of protein, fiber, thiamin, riboflavin, 

niacin, vitamin B6 and folate. They are also 

mineral moguls with magnesium, zinc, manganese, 

phosphorus and potassium. 

Quinoa 

A rediscovered ancient “grain” (it’s technically a 

vegetable relative) native to South America, quinoa 

is rich in protein, with all nine amino acids, and a 

good source of fiber. It also contains riboflavin, magnesium, 

phosphorus and manganese. A satisfying 

complex carbohydrate, dieters love quinoa – vegans 

also love it as a non-dairy source of calcium. 

Red Peppers 

Raw and cooked red bell peppers are not only nice 

to look at from the outside, they are great for you 

inside. They contain beta-carotene and vitamins B6, 

C, E and K. In addition, red peppers are among few 

foods that have lycopene, which has antioxidant 

properties. 

Sirloin, Lean 

Besides being mouth-watering, a slice of 95 percent 

lean sirloin has about 24 grams of protein with only 

2.5 grams of saturated fat. It is also rich in iron and 

contains various amino acids, B vitamins, magnesium, 

phosphorus and zinc. Trim off any visible fat 

and skin before preparing for maximum health benefits. 

Did You Know? 

Brussels sprouts, 

canola and kale 

are related; they 

all belong to the 

Brassica family of 

plants. 

Sweet Potatoes 

These colorful taters are sweet on health with their 

beta-carotene; vitamins B6 and K; and minerals, including 

calcium, potassium, copper and manganese. 

Tofu 

Long a staple in vegetarian diets, tofu has finally 

made it mainstream. This food is low in calories and 

fat and a great source of soy protein, which may reduce 

cholesterol levels. Tofu also offers a medley of 

minerals, including iron, magnesium, phosphorus 

and copper. 

Tomatoes 

In addition to containing almost no fat and plenty 

of vitamin C, tomatoes contain beta-carotene plus 

vitamins B6, E and K; thiamin, niacin and folate; fiber; 

and iron, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, potassium 

and manganese. They also are a rich source 

of lycopene. 

Spinach 

Popeye had it right: spinach rocks. Low in calories 

and high in vitamins, this leafy green is one of the 

most nutrient-dense foods you can put in your 

mouth. It has beta-carotene, folate, vitamin 

K, iron, calcium and magnesium. 



It’s easy to share in the fun of Valentine’s Day 

by serving those you love sweet treats that are 

a healthier alternative to ordinary, heart-shaped 

confections. 

Forget the expensive flowers, wines and chocolates. 

To really show you care, be a cupid and give your 

sweetie healthy, delicious treats that feature juicy watermelon. 

Naturally dressed in the holiday’s hue 

of vibrant red, using this fabulous fruit in recipes 

adds color to the spread of any Valentine’s Day party, 

whether large or intimate. 

Mouthwatering watermelon treats 

For an elegant, upscale treat, serve Watermelon Petit 

Fours, which feature sweet watermelon, candied 

almonds and is topped with your favorite decadent 

frosting. Get the kids in the kitchen with Watermelon 

Cupcakes for a new take on the beloved classic. Served 

with pineapple cream cheese frosting, kids will love 

helping you decorate these darling delights. 

If you really want to make their hearts skip a beat, 

carve an adorable Lips and Love Basket. Fill it with 

all of your sweetie’s favorite fruits for a fresh, flavorful 

display they’ll devour in a heartbeat. Remember, nothing 

shows your love more than edible gifts crafted by hand. 

For more sweet ideas, visit www.watermelon.org. 

Bonus benefits 

Your sweetie will love that they can indulge 

in the sweetness of the holiday without the 

guilt or inflated waistline caused by traditional 

Valentine’s Day treats. A naturally low-calorie 

option, watermelon also boasts the following 

benefits: 

• Vitamin A: Known to enhance eye health 

and boost immunity by enhancing the 

infection-fighting actions of white blood 

cells. 

• Vitamin B6: Helps the immune system 

produce antibodies which fight diseases. 

• Vitamin C: Boosts the immune system’s 

defenses against infections and viruses. It 

also protects the body from harmful free 

radicals which accelerate aging. 


Hearts love watermelon 

Beyond adding color and variety to your family’s 

diet, watermelon has other great benefits. Here are 

a couple of these heart-healthy reasons: 

• Fresh watermelon is certified by the American 

Heart Association’s Heart Checkmark program 

as being low in saturated fat and cholesterol. 

• Watermelon is the primary source of an amino 

acid called citrulline found in fruits and vegetables. 

Citrulline can help maintain blood flow 

within the heart and cardiovascular function. 


Watermelon Cupcakes 

Yield: 8 servings 

8 cupcake liners 

8 cupcake shaped pieces of 

seedless watermelon 

2 cups pineapple cream cheese 

frosting 

Sprinkles for garnish 

Place liners in 8-cup cupcake tin. Cut 

3-inch-thick slices of seedless watermelon. 

Cut round cupcake-sized pieces 

from slices. Put watermelon cupcake in 

each liner. Place dollop of frosting on 

each cupcake. Decorate as desired with 

sprinkles. 

Watermelon Petit Fours 

Yield: 12 servings 

12 (3-inch) cubes of seedless 

watermelon 

3/4 cup frosting 

12 candied almonds 

Sugar in the Raw, 

for sprinkling 

Arrange watermelon cubes on serving 

platter. Place frosting in zipper bag 

and trim off bit of one bottom corner. 

Deco ratively pipe frosting onto each 

water melon cube. Place almond at top 

of frost ing on each petit four. Sprinkle 

with raw sugar and serve immediately.

Balanced 

Eating 

Routine 


Sometimes even the smallest changes can offer big results to your 

overall well-being. 

When maintaining or pursuing a healthful eating routine, adopting 

a balanced approach is essential for success. Rather than restricting 

yourself, strive instead to make small steps toward a healthier 

lifestyle. A few simple changes to your daily routine can eventually 

turn into lasting habits that are far more enjoyable and easier to 

maintain. 

As an expert on the positive impact of small changes, Registered 

Dietitian and Nutritionist Keri Gans offers these helpful tips: 

Create a healthy eating schedule 

Food is fuel. In order to keep energized throughout the day it is 

important not to skip meals. Grab a midday snack, like The Laughing 

Cow Light White Cheddar flavor with whole grain crackers, to 

help you overcome that all too familiar late afternoon slump. These 

cheeses are a must-have for your January shopping lists. 

Eat the right kinds of fats 

A little healthy yet tasty fat, such as 1/4 of an avocado or a handful 

of almonds, can go a long way. It can provide flavor, satiety and be 

good for your body, especially your heart. 

Share food and good times with advance planning 

To help ensure healthier choices are made when dining out, be 

sure to grab a quick, tasty snack to tide you over before your meal. 

Some great snacking options include a wedge of The Laughing Cow 

Light Creamy Swiss flavor with pear slices, a low-sugar granola 

bar or 1/4 cup of roasted edamame. The less hungry you are, the 

easier it is to stay on track. 

Enjoy the foods you are craving 

Want that slice of pizza or piece of chocolate? Go for it. To maintain 

a healthy and enjoyable lifestyle, try and eat well the majority 

of time, but make sure you leave room for some of your favorite 

indulgences. If you don’t allow yourself to enjoy these foods on 

occasion, you might always be craving them, which can lead to 

overeating. 

Make savory swaps for old standbys 

It is never necessary to eliminate the flavors you love, instead learn 

to enjoy them in a healthier way. Are you in the mood for nachos 

but trying to eat a little better? Swap the high-fat cheese and 

greasy fried chips for a wedge of The Laughing Cow Light Queso 

Fresco & Chipotle with a serving of baked tortilla chips. With eight 

delicious varieties to choose from, this cheese is the perfect snack 

to satisfy your cravings in the New Year. 

So, enjoy all the flavors and fun of life by adopting a small-step approach 

toward eating well. Each tiny change is a step in the right 

direction to a happier, more satisfied you. 

www.thelaughingcow.com 


Start where you stand and never mind the past, 

The past won’t help you in beginning new, 

If you have left it all behind at last 

Why, that’s enough, you’re done with it, you’re through; 

This is another chapter in the book, 

This is another race that you have planned, 

Don’t give the vanished days a backward look, 

Start where you stand. 

Berton Braley

Focus of SWFL

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