1. real estate

Winter 2015
Dick Vitale – “Yeah Baby!”
High Performance High Luxury
Nik Wallenda - Life on the Wire
Steve “Goldie” Goldstein
Quarterly
2
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
3
From the desk of
Susan Short,
Publisher
“For last year’s words belong to last year’s language
And next year’s words await another voice.
And to make an end is to make a beginning.”
(Little Gidding)
T.S. Eliot
It is truly hard to believe that 2014 is in the past. For most of us it brought many changes, much laughter and happiness. It is hard to say if one or even a series of events could signify the year, as so many memorable moments graced
our lives and the pages of Family Beautiful Magazine.
Family Beautiful was honored to be a part of so many fantastic and important events in our ever growing and ever
changing community. We continue to support UCP, United Cerebral Palsy, The Center for Building Hope, Manatee
Children’s Services, Glasser Schoenbaum Foundation, Make A Wish, and Dick Vitale’s V Foundation plus many,
many more important charities along the Gulf Coast. We sincerely look forward to giving even more back to our
community in 2015.
This issue is quite special with one of our most beloved and prominent Sports Commentators and Motivational
speakers, Mr. Dick Vitale, “Yeah, Baby” gracing our cover with his extraordinary family. He has penned many,
many books, and really shows us how to “Get a W(in) in the Game of Life,” as one of his recent novels is most
aptly titled.
Luxury automobiles are a passion in the area, and we have truly tried to experience first hand what many exquisite
vehicles are like to live with for a period of time. Blessed, perhaps, ensconced in speed and mechanical perfection,
each is different in every perfect way that denotes nothing short of quintessential flawlessness. Could I possibly choose
one, never. They all have stolen a piece of my heart, that is, on the road.
We have the voice of the Florida Panthers in this issue, Steve “Goldie” Goldstein, with his take on life and how he has
risen to the top of his game in South Florida and all over the world in his travels.
Tweaking an exemplary men’s wardrobe is essential in every season, especially during the winter months when events
are never-ending. We debunk some of the mystery of how to present yourself as a man or present your man effortlessly with the skilled professionals at Marcello Sport on St. Armands. Always in fashion and one step ahead of the
game is the key to finding the ultimate look to distinguish a well-dressed man from the crowd.
Family Beautiful Magazine is out and about at most social events, so follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and
Pintrest to see if we have captured you in our beautiful area. There are many new ventures in the media planned for
the coming year. We wish you and your family the very best in 2015 in all of your adventures and endeavors.
Susan Short
4
Family Beautiful
58
On the Cover
12
Nik Wallenda – Life on the Wire
One man who has no fear and embraces every
opportunity to catapult to dizzying heights.
We met up with Nik at Skyscraper live.
Contents
Kids
8 Digital Dangers
10 Field of Dreams
34
Dick Vitale-Yeah Baby!
Sarasota and the area’s beloved philanthropist
and Basketball Coach, Sports Commentator and
motivational speaker sheds light on his life, family
and new adventures.
46-55 High Performance High Luxury
The area’s most elegant, distinguished, high powered
and supreme sports cars and luxury automobiles are
featured in all of their glory.
84
Steve “Goldie” Goldstein
Voice of the Florida Panthers and legendary sportscaster reflects on his career in sports broadcasting.
92
Ahhhh Spa
74 Botinal Facial
Travel
14-27
76
78
80
82
36Opera
28 The Life You Want
40Winterfest
42 Berry Duean Oakley
43 Faithful to the Gym
56 Rosa Fiorelli Winery
57 All Aboard
Lifestyles
Location, Location
29-32 Golf Heaven
The Better Half
Men's Fashions
66-73 Weddings
58-61
86
88
89
90
92
94
96
98
Time for Celebration
Marco Island
Golf, Food & Spa
Divina Cruise
Mary Pierce – Tennis Prodigy
Tarpon Pointe Grill & Tiki Bar
Virgin Vintage
Meaningful & Challenging Work
Life of Artistic Adventure
Flight Source
Tin Fish Restaurants
Cadillac – A Dream Drive
54
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
5
Publisher and Executive Editor
Susan Short
Creative Director
Vicki Rollo
Consulting Advisor
Irine Tsinober
Editorial Assistant
Donna Fishburn
Photo Contributors
Mark Bettis, BOSK Photography,
Catch a Star Photography, Ray
Collins, Discovery Channel, Emarie &
Petr Marcan, Richard Porter, Tom Shane
Article Contributors
Tim Calandra, Ray Collins, Donna
Fishburn, Ben Halbert, Damon (Dr. Sporty)
Harper, Irene Herman, Mandy McGlothlin,
Emily Owen, Carol Prokap,
Vicki Rollo, Tom Shane
Cover Photo & Digital Imagery:
EMarie Marcan and Petr Marcan of
InStudio E Photography
Fashion Spread for Marcello Sport
and Luxury Automobiles
Emarie Marcan and Petr Marcan of InStudio E
Photography
Susan Short’s gowns by Blue Sol
Advertising Inquiries
Contact our corporate office to request a media
kit by calling (941) 961-4280 or e-mail Susan at
Susan.FamilyBeautiful@gmail.com
Features
Get your
blood pressure checked
for FREE at any of the
following locations
3155 University Pkwy Sarasota
1700 North Lockwood Ridge Rd Sarasota
14415 Arbor Green Trl Bradenton
8315 Market St. Lakewood Ranch
1455 Upper Manatee River Rd Bradenton
6
Family Beautiful
We would love to hear from you if you would like us to
consider featuring your business or interest in our magazine. You can contact us by calling (941) 961-4280 or
e-mailing us at Susan.FamilyBeautiful@gmail.com
© 2010 Family Beautiful, LLC. The contents of this publication may not be duplicated either in whole or in part
without the written consent of the publisher. Family Beautiful assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials.
Family Beautiful magazine is an independent, free community magazine whose target
audience are the families living in Gulfcoast
paradise who want to improve their lives and
the lives of those around them.
Family Beautiful magazine is published
quarterly and is available at over 100 local
retail businesses, hotels, health care centers,
and offices. Also available at select CVS and
Walgreens, and Burns Court and Lakewood
Ranch Cinemas. Family Beautiful magazine
is published by Family Beautiful, LLC. 8130
Uzita Drive, Sarasota, Florida 34240.
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
7
Five Tips to Protect Your Child from Digital Dangers
Digital Natives
Are You Raising
A couple gathers their closest friends and family around
the table. The couple is excited, nervous, anxious, and full
of joy, all at the same time. “We’re expecting!” they yell.
Cheers and tears of joy typically follow this pronouncement with congratulatory hugs. What was a traditional
moment to be shared and remembered by all present is
a fading tradition. Most of today’s announcements are
shared in 140 characters or less, with a short video,
or image. Just as technology plays a role in our daily
lives, technology is being integrated into all aspects of
our lives.
From the moment of confirmed conception, the picture
of the proud soon-to-be mom sharing her “+” (positive
pregnancy test) via social media, we socialize our yet-tobe born children online. Next are the growing babybump and nursery preparation images. Until one day,
we see what we have been waiting for. The social media
post from the delivery room. Sometimes we see a clean,
cuddly baby and sometimes we see a crying, still
attached, straight-from-the-womb newborn.
Every “first” the new bundle of joy has will be documented forever in social media archives with words, sounds,
and both still and moving pictures. First new family photo, first diaper change, first trip, first smile, first giggle,
and first swipe on a smart phone or tablet. I know you
have seen it – the image of an infant or toddler “playing” on the device du jour.
It doesn’t stop there. We see images of toddlers being potty trained holding an iPhone, toddlers or young
children
having a “play-date,” each child is holding their own
tablet and not interacting with the other child. The family
at the restaurant sitting around the table, staring at the
screens of their favorite device, while all but ignoring the
physical presence of their most cherished family members just an arm’s-length away.
Clearly, as a society we are raising Digital Natives. But
we are also raising Digital Naives.
8
Family Beautiful
or Digital Naives?
When we hand our youngest children smart phones and
tablets to keep them entertained, we are missing the
opportunity to ingrain cyber ethics into their developing
minds. What happens if you teach your child about
security, privacy, empathy, bully response, screen-time balance, and other aspects of cyber ethics starting at three?
Perhaps we will raise a generation that knows how to
deal with over-sharing on social media, cyber bullying,
online enticement of minors, and online trolls. Perhaps
we will have fewer instances of bully-suicides, missing
children, and revenge porn. How?
• First, model appropriate behavior. That means putting
the phone down while at a meal, being thoughtful of
the pictures you take and post.
• Second, talk to your children. Find out what their
favorite game or app is. Ask if they interact with other
players, and if so, how? Ask questions that help your
child learn. For example, ask them, “Why do you think
it is not a good idea to share information with someone you met through an app or game?”
• Third, start reading books geared to young children
at about age three that teach cyber safety and awareness. Around five or six, they will understand more of
the nuances behind the core concepts.
• Fourth, talk to your family and friends and have them
help raise their children to be savvy cyber kids. Why?
What happens when they go to a friend’s or family
member’s house who isn’t raising their children to be
cyber aware?
• Fifth, remember there is no silver bullet to raising your
kids in a world full of technology. What it takes is your
time and dedication as a parent to use the resources
available to you.
So, put down your phone, look your child in the eye,
tell them you love them and give them a big kiss.
No technology can do that. Ben Halpert
Balance
Health + Fitness
Balance Health + Fitness has evolved over the last 20
years, and is a wellness and fitness facility like no other.
Their team of trainers and massage therapists have
educated, coached and supported members of the
community to achieve their health and wellness goals.
Committed to a well-rounded approach to exercise
and massage therapy, the staff can cater to a variety of
needs. If you are just starting out and are looking for a
guided workout plan to get your health and wellness on
track, the trainers will launch you on the right path.
If you already have an established workout routine
but aren’t noticing the results you desire or want to
re-energize your workouts, the trainers will assist you
in fine tuning your existing program.
Their approach to health and fitness is unique. It reflects
attention to movement as well as stabilization and
protection of the joints and the connective tissues of the
body. They focus on the important relationship between
strengthening and lengthening of the body.
The team of Personal Trainers and Massage Therapists
specialize in injury prevention and rehabilitation. It is
referred to as a therapeutic approach to exercise “prehabilitation” – creating a strong and flexible body before
any injury occurs. The goal is to help you understand how
to get out of pain and stay out of pain while maintaining
a strong and healthy body.
The first time you walk into Balance, you notice the
calm and serenity. They believe that by eliminating the
over-stimulation of televisions and other technological
elements from the walls of the studio, they promote the
total body experience.
By the way, they strongly support the local arts
community, and the facility is enriched by a rotating
collection of fine art, including many works created by
local Sarasota artists. Susan Short
Balance Health and Fitness
423 N. Lemon Ave, Sarasota • 941-365-6581
www.balancehealthandfitness.com
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
9
From Professional Baseball to the Miracle Belt
The Real Life
Field of dreams
“Playing Catch with Destiny” is the title of the book based on the real life story
of Matt Bruback, star athlete, professional baseball pitcher and player, turned
entrepreneur and special needs advocate.
It is not your typical baseball story, although much
of it is about his life growing up in a military family
overseas; his excellence in baseball and love of
the sport. The story is not what you think, the twists
and turns of the plot are more akin to a Hollywood
screenplay.
Matt was a professional athlete for over nine years,
as a pitcher and has spent time with the Baltimore
Orioles, San Diego Padres, Pittsburgh Pirates and
Chicago Cubs. During his tenure as a pitcher with
the Cubs, he suffered several injuries, one of which
was caused by a 100 mph line drive that struck his
right knee. This injury directly affected his balance
and his season was cut short. In an attempt to
help with his recovery, Matt developed a weighted
belt device to help him feel his balance point to
regain consistency in the strike zone. He soon
realized the belt could be used by athletes struggling with body awareness issues in many sports.
Two years after designing the Sportsbelt, Matt
received a call from Catherine Behan, M.S. and
Emotional Freedom Technique Specialist, who
had used his belt to improve her golf game. She
recognized the proprioceptive or body awareness
benefits of the weighted belt and was convinced
this was a breakthrough for children especially
those with autism. She took the belt to the Sierra
Academy in San Diego, California where it was
dramatic in helping children with autism.
Shortly after the phone call from Catherine, the
new “Miracle Belt” was created for infants and
children with sensory deficits. The symptoms of
these sensory disorders are found in children with
10
Family Beautiful
autism, ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, Down syndrome,
Sensory Integration Disorder and more.
“I knew I wanted to do two things in life,” Matt
said, “I wanted to play baseball and help children.” So far, his dreams have come true, he has
done both and to date, the Miracle Belt has helped
over 10,000 children and his goal is to help
1,000,000 children one day.
“In tests on children using the Miracle Belt, they are
much more calm and focused” Matt said, “Many
are reaching new milestones.”
Suffering from childhood speech and sensory
issues, Matt was highly attuned to giving back to
society, especially children. Seeing a smile on the
face of a child who can walk for the first time as a
result of the Miracle Belt far exceeds his passion of
a career in baseball.
After overcoming injuries, carrying on despite
many obstacles in professional sports, Matt and
his life are a testament to tenacity and to a true
level of entrepreneurism.
“Sometimes you have to take yourself out of the
equation and see the bigger picture and the
greater good,” he said.
Doctors Frank and Lisa Lanzisera, parents of a
child with Down Syndrome said, “We have tried
many things over the years to help in our son’s
development. At 10 years of age, he was still unable to
walk unassisted. We knew the problem was his balance.
After reading about the Miracle Belt in the local newspaper,
we immediately ordered it online. Our son is now walking
around the house without any help. In fact, he constantly
surprises us when he walks into the room. In our mind, the
Miracle Belt truly is a miracle.”
“My grandfather played a big role in my life,” Matt Bruback said. “While on his death bed, he told me I was his
ballplayer. I could make it. The confidence he gave me still
carries today.”
A harbinger of great things to come, Matt postponed his
promising career to help children overcome developmental
difficulties. That in itself is a mark of true heroism, greatness
beyond the ballfield. SUSAN SHORT
www.miraclebelt.com
Playing Catch with Destiny is available on Amazon.
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
11
Life on the Wire
Ask anybody to jot down a quick list of their worst fears
and many of them would undoubtedly include a healthy
fear of heights. Nik Wallenda is one man who has no
such fear and, in fact, embraces the opportunity to place
himself hundreds of feet above the ground on a wire
three quarters of an inch in diameter, the diameter of
a penny. For seven generations and 200 years, the
Wallendas have been high wire walkers and performers
and Nik’s first experience on the wire was before birth,
while his mother was six months pregnant. As a toddler,
Nik first walked the wire himself at the early age of two
and hasn’t stopped walking since.
12
Nathan Benderson Park near the newly completed
University Town Center Mall, where the public is invited
to watch. He draws large crowds and is always happy to
pose with kids or sign an autograph. It was these walks
that inspired me to travel to Chicago to cover this story.
Nik has lost seven family members to death on the wire
(most famously his great-grandfather Karl Wallenda in
1978 in Puerto Rico, due to an improperly rigged wire
and, at 73, not prepared physically for the challenge). In
one circus pyramid formation performance alone, Nik lost
two family members and a third Wallenda was paralyzed.
His walk on November 2, 2014, “Skyscraper Live,”
600+ feet above the Chicago skyline had Nik crossing
two different spans of wire. The first wire curved to a 19
degree angle and 8 floors upward from one skyscraper
to the other tower, crossing two football fields in length
and also the Chicago River. The second, riskier walk
immediately followed from Marina Center Tower West
to Tower East, blindfolded, at night, in the 40˚ weather.
His walks were carried live by the Discovery Channel in
220 countries, and was watched in person by a crowd
estimated at 65,000 people. Chicago, home to the
world’s first skyscraper, nicknamed the windy city, and
Nik Wallenda were destined to meet.
None of this detracts Nik from his life-long passion and
family legacy. He trains constantly, in hurricanes, with
airboat fans blowing, playing chicken on his backyard
wire with his children. In his hometown of Sarasota, he
is frequently seen walking across the wire, sometimes
from one high-rise condo to another, and recently at
Nik gave a pre-walk press conference on Friday where he
granted many television stations as well as print media
interviews, and answered many questions. Most questions
related to the walk itself and the incredible challenges it
presented. He discussed the whole huge project of
shipping, setting the wire and the details of the work
Family Beautiful
required to get permission from the City of Chicago plus the three
buildings. Snow was falling that Friday evening making the whole
challenge feel all the more daunting. Present throughout the weekend was Jim Cantore of the Weather Channel who assured us that
the weather would definitely improve by Sunday. Fortunately for Nik,
it did.
On Saturday, Wallenda took his family out on the town, sightseeing.
On Sunday, surrounded by family and friends, including Joel Olsteen,
he relaxed, prayed, and prepared for the walk that evening.
He successfully crossed the Grand Canyon last year and while it
was televised, he was unable to perform before a crowd due to the
rugged terrain. Nik lives to please and motivate the crowd. One of
the most rewarding things about walking in Chicago was the almost
deafening roar of 65,000 people traveling 60 flights above the city
floor to an exuberant, though calm Nik Wallenda. For his second
blindfolded walk, he did request silence, so that he could hear the
beeping of the homing beacon at the finishing point that replaced
his eyes for this risky adventure. As Nik pointed out afterwards,
probably the most important sense for wire-walking, his sight, was
taken away for this extremely dangerous feat. The challenges in
Chicago earned Nik two new Guinness World Records and was
a long-time dream of his.
After the walk he granted a second press conference where he discussed the challenges of the walk, thanked the many
people involved, answered our questions, and discussed some of his future plans.
When asked what is next for Nik Wallenda, he stated that after the post-walk media whirlwind, he was returning to
Sarasota to start practicing a new pyramid act with his acrobat team and some point in the future he plans to recreate
his great-grandfather’s greatest walk across Tallulah Gorge, Georgia. Karl was filmed by the BBC in 1970 and accomplished two headstands while on the quarter-mile long wire. Nik has never performed a headstand in public before. He
wants to “walk with his grandfather” across the same Gorge and perform the same risky headstands.
So what can we take away from Nik Wallenda and his daring feats? I think it is safe to say he wants what most people
want... to work hard at their profession, earn and share in the love of his family and friends, worship and give thanks
for his special abilities, and to motivate countless others to accomplish their own dreams and overcome their own
challenges and
adversities (His
personal motto and
favorite hash tag is
“Never Give Up.”).
At 35, Nik calmly
accomplishes all
of this, and all
seemingly with
just a little more
balance. Tom Shane
images by
tomshanephotos.com
and discovery.com
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
13
Location
Location
Location
Photo by Richard Porter
14
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
15
Life is a Beautiful Beach
at the “Siesta Key Beach Side Villas”
As soon as you arrive at the sublime and relaxing Siesta Key
Beach Side Villas, your worldly cares just seem to slip away.
The rainbow pastel colored bungalows beckon you to take
your shoes off and just run to the beach. Or, mosey over to the
hammocks and swing under the palm trees. It is a little slice of
paradise on Siesta Key.
Located smack in the middle of the Village action, a car is
really not even required. Your feet can take you anywhere you
need to go within a few short blocks. Basically, you can roll out
of your fabulously redone bungalow to nightlife, many restaurants and the world class beach, of course.
According to Michael Holderness, a top 1% realtor and managing director, “We saw a need for really nice rooms in the area
and decided to completely refurbish the resort from head to
toe.” Some of the plans are to renovate the pool area, making it
more conducive to languishing even in the summer months with
a pool bar and a shallow walk-in feature. There will also be a
beautifully designed kite type of overhang to shield those who
don’t completely worship the sun.
All exteriors have been redone with inviting tiki huts, Adirondack
chairs in bright colors as well as much needed landscaping.
All bungalows feature custom interiors, with all new flooring,
granite countertops, appliances, and all new custom bedding
and furniture.
A few steps down the road they plan to add a private beach “house” that features paddleboards, kayaks, towels and
even showers for the guests. It is their own private space directly on the Gulf. All this for a marvelous time to get lost in
the real world!
It feels more like a resort on a private Caribbean island than a beach town in the US. It is the perfect staycation getaway, or even escape the cold from north which many snowbirds flee.
Many lovebirds rent the entire resort
for weddings, which is a common
occurrence. The bungalows are roomy,
well equipped and perfect for families, couples and multi-generational
gatherings.
The resort is quaint, luxurious and
an unexpected treasure that is iconic
of the Sarasota lifestyle. Steeped in
traditional beach folklore but firmly
embracing the present with every
conceivable amenity, it nods to the
old surf ideals of barefoot at the
beach, but when it is time to shake
off the sand, you will be enveloped
in luxury accommodations. It doesn’t
get much better than that! Susan Short
16
Family Beautiful
A Slice of Paradise
on Siesta Key
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Luxury accommodations
Colorful bungalows with tiki huts and Adirondack chairs
Custom interiors
- new flooring
- granite countertops
- new appliances
- new bedding & furniture
Short or long term rentals available
Middle of Village action
Perfect staycation for locals
Perfect escape for tourists
Massages offered by Lauren Bell, LMT MA56509
124 & 94 Columbus Blvd, Sarasota 34242
www.siestakeybeachsidevillas.com • 941-203-8985
Michael S. Holderness, REALTOR
941-725-0338
www.mikeholderness.com
mike@mikeholderness.com
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
17
18
Family Beautiful
The Soda Group, is one of the most dynamic real estate teams in
the Greater Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch and Manatee areas. The
partners Jim Soda, Donna Soda and Stacy Haas-Goodwin all
share the same vision of professionalism and hard work for their
Buyers and Sellers. With more than 100 transactions and $60
million in sales volume in 2013, the Soda Group has been a formidable sales force in Lakewood Ranch and across the Sarasota
region. “When you are managing one of the most valuable
assets for people, you become part of their family; assessing
every part of their transaction,” says Jim Soda. Whether its waterfront, golf course, horse farms, vacant land, condos and/or single family homes; buyers and sellers expect our expertise
to guide them through to a successful transaction.
After owning a flourishing transportation and environmental company for nearly 25 years, Jim and Donna moved
from Canfield, Ohio in 2001 and Jim obtained his real estate license. Jim is a University of Dayton graduate. Donna
helped create and manage the Soda Group and now has 10 years plus experience. Stacy Haas-Goodwin, worked
previously as an interior designer and became a Realtor in 2007. Stacy has received numerous real estate awards and
sold two of the highest resale homes in East Manatee county history. Recently Stacy joined forces with Jim and Donna
to help expand and grow the team’s presence. The groups consists of four additional Buying partners Carrie Lamb from Rochester, MI, Mark and Kay Coon from
Baltimore, Maryland and Don McGayhey from New York, a graduate of University of Richmond School of Law, and
Patti Tebo from Massachusetts the group’s full time Administrative Manager.
When you are thinking about buying or selling real estate, The Soda Group should be at the top-of-your list.
Exceptional Service…Proven Results.
Contact us: Jim Soda 941-809-7759, Donna Soda 941-961-5857, Stacy Haas-Goodwin 941-587-4359. Website: www.TheSodaGroup.com
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
19
W
ith over 30 years of experience in the real estate field, the team of Lori Collins and Helaine
Giddens represent and specialize in international property, international and national investors,
as well as anyone who is relocating within the United States.
Their expertise lies in overseeing both sides of the transaction. As members and part of the highly
prestigious “Leading Real Estate Companies of The World,” they have streamlined access and are
adept in nationally coordinating sales transactions.
Their established network of the “right” professionals will assist in each transaction. Both women
work as a team with vendors. From the Attorneys, title companies and lenders; all work as a
coordinated team effort to establish a “turnkey” result to create a win – win situation.
20
Family Beautiful
Both Lori and Helaine have been in the stunning Gulf coast area for a combination of over 30 yrs and
regard the area as not only their stomping ground but as their preferred place to live in the world.
“We believe in “old school” values – customer service & relationship building – good communication” say both Helaine and Lori, “We focus on the empty nester, land deals and land ventures as
well as investor opportunities.”
Lori went on to say that “We really stay on top of what is going on in the market.” Using the correct
resources is imperative to work with any type of client and investor. This strategy has always been
successful in building relationships with both buyers and sellers.
Their expertise ranges in residential, commercial and business transactions.
“We are proud to belong to the global network whose name says it all — Leading Real Estate
Companies of The World.® Only the best of the best are part of this collection.”
“Whether it’s a country house, a property in a resort location, or an in-town apartment, we can
help you find the perfect property when you work with the best names in real estate — Leading Real
Estate Companies of The World®.”
wearable art
Fashion / TRUNK
Shows
Fashion Shows – Are you looking for an exciting new feature for your organization’s luncheons,
fundraising events or meetings? Consider a Wearable Art Fashion Show/Trunk Show presented by
Hearts Desire. Our fashion shows create memorable events that help promote your organization.
Ladies experience a fun, lively, entertaining show and leave happy and inspired.
About Hearts Desire – Hearts Desire is a unique fashion boutique located in the Village of
the Arts in Bradenton. It specializes in locally designed clothing, jewelry and accessories as well
as hand-painted and eclectic clothing from small, national and international design houses. Its
clothing and accessories appeal to women of all ages.
1221 12th St. W., Bradenton, FL 34205 • 941.302.1069 • heartsdesirefl.com
Open First Friday ArtWalks – 6-9:30 pm, First Saturdays – 11am www.FamilyBeautiful.com
- 4pm
21
22
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
23
24
Family Beautiful
Classic and Timeless Beachside Elegance
at Casa de Las Olas
You know that you have definitely arrived, and in the most tasteful, bespoke manner when you reach Casa de Las Olas.
Nestled in the enclave of Casey Key, this property shines above the beachfront like a glistening star. The location is
perfection with 157 feet of bluff frontage overlooking the famous turquoise Gulf of Mexico.
This island estate is truly what one envisions as paradise. The architectural brilliance is apparent and includes state-ofthe-art technology within the grand walls. Designed by Cliff Scholz, renowned local architect, the gated main residence
and stunning pool house encompass 10,932 square feet with five bedrooms, five full bathrooms and three half bathrooms plus two two-car garages.
The circular driveway beckons you to
explore further, to reveal captivating courtyard areas adjacent to the pool that each
have their own elegant and distinct flair.
Every detail has been addressed with utmost
perfection. Each room features sweeping
views of the Gulf of Mexico. As day turns
into night, the art is the view, ever changing
and evoking a different feeling of perfect
paradise.
The gourmet cook’s kitchen has custom
granite counters with individually sourced
cabinetry and state-of-the-art appliances.
An entertainer’s dream, there is plenty of
room to enjoy the incredible opulence of
true Florida Gulf Coast living. The upper
level is 1200 square feet boasting again
remarkable views, a sitting area overlooking
a private terrace with a spiral staircase that
leads to a crow’s nest to attain the ultimate
view of the sunset vista.
The estate also features a custom wine
cellar, an advanced movie theater, computer
lighting, and 11 outside security cameras.
The resort style pool areas feature a poolside kitchen and dining space that integrate
effortlessly with the pool house. The gardens
and additional seating areas with a fireplace make a stunning backdrop for entertaining, all with perfect style and sumptuous
comfort.
Grandeur and warmth are the personification
of Casa De Las Olas, “House of the Waves.”
Heaven on earth on the Gulf of Mexico on
Casey Key. Susan Short
actionrealtyofsarasota.com
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
25
Luxury Real Estate
Local Experts • Global Expertise
1504 Stickney Point Rd
Sarasota, Florida 34231
Phone: 941-927-2900
Fax:
941-927-2966
Cell:
941-504-7618
Rolls Royce provided by
Dimmit Automotive Group
26
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
27
SaraBay Real Estate, Inc.
was born out of one
very simple philosophy…
To provide the most professional real estate service in a
friendly and caring atmosphere.
Judy & Mike Holderness, owners, have been in business
since 1979.
SaraBay’s longevity has enabled us to establish a strong
network of support professionals, which includes termite
inspectors, appraisers, and title companies. This saves our
clients and customers worry and expense. Our personal
commitment to real estate is evidenced by our reputation
for cooperation and trust. All of the SaraBay professionals
share our attitude!
At SaraBay, we realize that selling real estate is a numbers
game – the more people who know about a property, the
better the chances of it selling. In order to expose our listings,
we not only enter them in the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
and advertise, but also include:
• Apprising the seller of current market conditions (pricing,
increasing saleability, and questions) and making Home
Warranties for buyers and sellers available.
• Advertising through TV exposure, announcement cards,
open houses.
• Networking within the Real Estate Industry and providing
Multiple Listing Services in both Manatee and Sarasota
counties for maximum exposure.
• Targeting the market – who is the most logical buyer?
Shotgunning doesn’t always work. We also can arrange an
associate preview.
• Providing national and overseas referral services through
our membership with Leading Real Estate Companies of the
World®. Whether moving across town or across the country,
we can help!
Want information about the area, events, and other real
estate news? Check out our blog!
At Your Service,
Elsa M. Kauffman, RCC, WRS
SaraBay Real Estate, Inc.
Serving Sarasota & Manatee Counties
7333 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243
Office: (941) 355-7696 • Cell: (941) 348-3448
Customer Care: (800) 329-7696 • Fax: (941) 355-6083
Email: ElsaK@SaraBay.com • Web: www.sarabay.com
28
Family Beautiful
Golf
Heaven
Photo by Richard Porter
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
29
30
Family Beautiful
Sara Bay Country Club
Founded in 1926, Sara Bay Country Club is a private,
member-owned golf club designed by legendary architect
Donald Ross. Located just north of downtown Sarasota and
only minutes from the adjacent islands of Longboat Key,
Bird Key, Lido Key, as well as Lakewood Ranch, Sara Bay
is recognized as one of the most prestigious and historic
clubs in Florida. When the Club first opened it was known
as Whitfield Estates Country Club, and the head golf
professional was the flamboyant Tommy “Silver Scot” Armour.
On February 26, 1926, Bobby Jones and Walter Hagen went
head to head in their celebrated 36-hole match, which Hagen
handily won 11-up. Jones later wrote in his memoirs that this
defeat was the “worst drubbing of my career.” Throughout the
storied history of the Club many USGA and FSGA events have
been contested on our classic layout, including the 1940 and
1941 Senior PGA Championship. In 2014 the Club will host
the LPGA Symetra Tour Guardian Retirement Championship.
The traditional course features the challenge of the Donald Ross signature green complexes, tee markers from 4748
to 7021 yards, a walker-friendly atmosphere and always superb playing conditions. In 2006, the course underwent
an extensive and meticulous restoration by Brian Silva, an acknowledged expert on Ross design philosophy. The
understated elegance of the Old Florida inspired clubhouse is an inviting retreat to relax with your favorite beverage
after golf, or to savor an expertly prepared evening dinner. The staff is dedicated to the highest level of service, assuring
that each member receives the personal attention they deserve. Members of Sara Bay enjoy the enviable combination of
heritage, camaraderie, and an exceptional golfing experience. Membership at Sara Bay is more than just belonging to
a club…it is an exclusive lifestyle distinguished by long-standing traditions. Golf is our passion!
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
31
Palm Aire Country Club
The Center of It All. . .
The 1,400 acre community of Palm Aire has evolved from the middle of
nowhere to the center of it all. Located east of Lockwood Ridge Road and
north of University Parkway in Manatee County, Palm Aire has a Sarasota
ZIP code. The community consists of 31 villages/neighborhoods with
approximately 2,500 residences including single-family homes, 2-3 story
condos and villas/garden homes.
Elegant but Laid Back. . .
The Club’s culture is one of camaraderie. The renovated 25,000 square-foot
Clubhouse offers an understated elegance suitable to weddings, galas, fine
dining and social events. And the Champions Lounge, patios and card rooms
provide members a laid-back dining and social experience.
Clubs Within the Club. . .
In addition to the unique camaraderie of the Club’s men’s and women’s golf
and tennis associations, Palm Aire members also enjoy the activities of the
120+ member Art Association, an active Women’s Club, Book Club and Garden Club. Still others find enjoyment in the
various card groups and Mah Jongg.
New Park Enhances Amenities. . .
The amenities of the Palm Aire community have been enhanced with the opening of Conservatory Park, located just
west of the entrance to Palm Aire (Whitfield Avenue and University Parkway). The nature preserve, developed by
Manatee County, recently opened as a park with bike paths and walking trails, kayaking, fishing and picnic areas.
The park is open to the public from dawn to dusk. Renee Woods
32
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
33
The Game of Life According to Dick Vitale
“Yeah, Baby”
I had a wonderful opportunity recently to spend some
quality time with our hometown, super-charitable
celebrity and beloved ESPN Sportscaster, Dick Vitale.
He welcomed me into his beautiful home in Lakewood
Ranch one sunny day in mid-October. Warm, gracious
and superbly down to earth, he and I sat down in his
handsomely appointed grand central station – his office.
34
Family Beautiful
With so many questions spinning around in my head,
it was difficult to actually decide what to ask him about,
but the conversation flowed naturally, so it was almost
like spending time with a charming friend. I asked what
brought him to Lakewood Ranch, and he replied,
“The weather, of course, being that we were living
in Michigan.”
Dick has raised millions of dollars for the V Foundation, whose mission is to fund pediatric cancer research
while simultaneously promoting awareness of pediatric
cancer and how devastating it is to the children and
their families.
The 2015 Gala is May 15, 2015 and is always a
glittering event with sports and major celebrities
present. Special honorees will be Jim Boeheim, Head
Basketball Coach of Syracuse, Jimbo Fisher, Head
Football Coach of Florida State and Lovie Smith,
Head Football Coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The awards and trophies present in his office are
humbling, too many to discuss, it was hard to pick
a particular one. He recently was awarded in 2014
the Vincent Lombardi Memorial Award among many,
many others. “Dickie V is the ultimate motivator. Dick’s
passion and enthusiasm are unmatched in our game,
whether you’re talking coaches, his fellow broadcasters
or students of the game. His love and work ethic make
him a natural leader and a true inspiration,” said John
Calipari, Head Men’s Basketball Coach, and University
of Kentucky.
Dick shared many stories, including one very interesting and motivational anecdote. In 1977, after he had
successfully led the University of Detroit in a 21-game
winning streak, he was a legend of that time. He went
on to coach the Detroit Pistons and thought this was his
ultimate dream job. Unfortunately, he was let go after
draft picks and free agent signings led the Pistons to
have the worst year in 1979-80 in their history. Dick
thought this was his darkest hour. A few weeks later,
he received a call from a TV producer asking him to
announce and be the sportscaster for a fledgling
cable sports network with the call letters of ESPN. He
declined! He said, no, not for me, that he just wanted
to coach. Fortunately, the TV producer was tenacious
and ultimately convinced him with the help of Dick’s
wife, Lorraine, to go ahead and try the new position.
The rest is history.
According to the Chairman of ESPN, who once upon a
time was Dickie V’s driver, George Bodenheimer, “Dick
Vitale has shared unsurpassed enthusiasm and passion with ESPN audiences for more than 30 years. He
draws from a lifetime of experiences and a personal
commitment to community service.” Actually, according
to Dick, he had to give him major pep talks to stay the
course very early in his career.
Dick spends quite a bit of time with his family, which is #1
to him, especially his grandkids. He often watches them
playing their favorite sport, tennis in Lakewood Ranch.
He is also a very prolific author, and has an extensive
career as a motivational speaker. “I’m living the American
dream,” Vitale once said. “I learned from my mom and
dad, who didn’t have a formal education, but had doctorates of love. They told me that if you gave 110 percent all
the time, a lot of beautiful things will happen. I may not
always be right, but no one can ever accuse me of not
having a genuine love and passion for whatever I do.
And ESPN has been grateful enough to recognize this.”
And while his knowledge, preparation and
enthusiasm are unparalleled, his “Vitale-isms”
have unwittingly taken on a life of their own. Just
a few of his many household phrases: “Awesome,
Baby!” “Get a TO, Baby!” (Call a timeout),
“PTP’er” (prime-time player), “M & M’er” (a
mismatch), “Rolls Roycer” (a flat out superstar),
“diaper dandy” (freshman star), “All-Windex
Performer” (ferocious rebounder) and “Maalox
time” (the final minutes of a close game). Vitale
credits Hall of Fame broadcaster Jim Simpson,
who he teamed with in the early 80’s, in helping
him develop his broadcast style.
Some of the motivational and inspirational
sayings from his most recent book are, “Have the
knowledge to meet your expectations,” and “Don’t
be limited by others’ expectations.” Many people
don’t realize that Dick has only one eye, as a child,
a pencil to his left eye left him blind in that eye.
Although this was a sensory setback, his
parents did not let him use the one bad eye
as an excuse to not set goals or not to do
the work that was needed to reach them.
Dick Vitale is constantly astonishing the
world with his contributions to not only
sports but to the community. To read any
one of his books is like taking a drink of
motivational happiness, no matter what
the circumstances are, there are many
ways to overcome the challenges.
We look forward to the future and what
is next in the storied career and legacy of
our much beloved Dickie V! Susan Short
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
35
OPERA
Once again, Sarasota Opera launched the new season
in grand style with Ruggero Leoncavello’s Pagliacci. This
perennial favorite is given a new approach in that it is
presented alone rather than with its usual partner –
Cavalleria Rusticana. The result is a shorter evening
that may be an incentive to some – especially those
who may be new to opera. However, there is a bonus
in a beautifully performed musical prelude.
Pagliacci is a tale of tragic love and how the show must
go on in spite of one’s personal sorrow. The title role is
given a moving performance both musically and
dramatically by Michael Robert Hendrick. It is quite
different from his previous outstanding performances as
Lenny in Of Mice and Men in 2013 and in The Flying
Dutchman in 2014. They all emphasize his versatility
and his ability to capture the essence of each
character. His aria “Vesti la giubba” at the close
of Act I is one of the highlights of the opera.
Veronica Mitina is pert and poignant as the
unfaithful wife. As Tonio, the hunchback on
whose actions the plot revolves, Marco Nistico
delivers a strong portrayal – both comic and
tragic. Supporting roles and choral work were
all very well done.
A high standard has been set for the Winter
Festival which begins on February 7, 2015 with
Puccini’s Tosca. Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro
follows on February 14. The lesser-known opera
of the season is Rimsky-Korsakov’s The Golden
Cockeral on February 21. The final presentation
36
Family Beautiful
opens on February 28 and is the traditional Verdi cycle
opera. This year it is the Paris version of Don Carlos. All
of the operas are sung in their original language with
English surtitles.
Several concerts are also scheduled including Artist’s
Choice on March 6, the Verdi concert on March 22, and
the Intimate Verdi on March 26. Concerts at Noon are
offered on February 27, March 6 and 13. Covers at 3 is
performed on March 13. Irene Herman
61 N. Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota
(941) 328-1300
sarasotaopera.org
Presented by
Center for Building Hope
Sophisticated Strut
fashion series
Location to be announced January 2015
Friday, March 6, 2015
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Tickets
VIP – $75
Includes Champagne • Goodie Bag • Premier Seating
General Admission – $55
Purchase tickets at: www.centerforbuildinghope.org
or call 941.921.5539, Ext. 2202
Sponsored by
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
37
Oprah’s
weekend
Entranced as you feel your soul being invited into a void of your own being with connecting the dots from your past,
weeding out the seeds in your current self and rising into your own authentic self as you learn to value, nurture and
dispel all negative energy on any and all levels that have been buried inside and eaten you alive... Welcome to
Oprah’s The Life You Want Tour/Weekend in Miami. Stunning as the stage opened and she speaks before walking on
stage…deep soft voice to get
your attention, explaining this is the time for your life, are you ready? This
was beyond a
church meeting, worship, or a baptism, this was your life calling your soul; hitting that life source into your own strength, value and core – to the being
of soul. I knew Oprah would do this right and big, I felt the vibe of many
who came, close to 14 thousand. A gut feeling that this was her wish and
casual yet serious tone her words hit many people all in the right places.
I witnessed this experience beyond any traditional motivational speakers, this was in fact a soft whisper to your heart, a kiss to your soul and
a total wake up call to the logic of your mind but most of all a asking
of your spiritual self to wake up, come to the call of order for your life
and stop the screaming of your mind and the rat race you are living.
I listened to each word said, a trembling experience as I saw many
not only tear up, but crying full spell. A good thing, I felt, for it is
much needed today. This total power in experience beyond the
speakers, the lights, cameras, action and appearances, it even
was not so much of the energy and vibrations, it was many connecting to who they are in every moment, thought and action.
I was proud. Honored that finally someone is giving many a
reality check on many levels, even as I do in my Professional
Life Coaching and Personal Trainings. As a long-time follower of her for many years, I was encouraged and interested in seeing her. My partner and I took a
week vacation to make sure we engrained the total of the
majestic information that we would learn. I remember in
1998 when Oprah encouraged “Your Spirit,” her name for
journaling. I have always done this and I knew I would be
amazed even more at the “openings” that would follow
from this event. From the energy that flowed in the city
you knew something else was bigger than the city life; it
was Oprah and her crew. I have always been inspired
by her personally and professionally on all levels. As a
Professional Life Coach and Personal Fitness Trainer, I
can relate to people who may have gone off course or
lost their sense of direction. I had an instinctual feeling
this would be more than a show or an appearance.
38
Family Beautiful
For Oprah, of course, when she does things, she does them big and right. She has been a mentor for me for many
years, helping me learn from and make my own decisions from what I knew would be correct for myself. I have
followed Oprah and her trailblazing guest speakers such as Iyanla Vanzant and Elizabeth Gilbert and Deepak
Chopra. I was pleased to have these true talents speak. This was NOT about making an appearance or for show,
this was a real spiritual experience. One great idea was introduced here: a workbook with 40 pages of simple steps
and ideas on the how-to of self work, a few ads, and sayings from Oprah. We received a wonderful bracelet that
would glow different colors as the event venue went on. O Town I did not visit, a small village of her sponsors.
I knew much of what has been said, and in my mind, it all made sense, but in my soul, I was reminded to own and
anchor this into my own being and not allow what I call the dust to distort the vision from the direction I can see
through. Let me give you just a few highlights: Beyond Oprah reminding us all what she has learned and gathering
the speakers to speak from the point of truth they share, Oprah had my attention when she shared more of her truth
about her life and herself as a human being. Iyanla Vanzant I can relate more with because of her kick butt attitude
as she toasted to life at the end of the venue. She shared her down-to-earth self and problems of all types. Surprisingly, one would not expect speakers to share personal problems and professional despairs. But it happened and for
the good. Why? This connection we have and or need to have to be in support of a specific calling to who we really
are instead of what we do. I got this. I have been preaching and teaching this for years. I felt this venue was a great
time for the heavens to roar and shake the earth a little.
In summary much of what hit our hearts, opened our minds and tore our souls in shreds were much needed reminders:
to pay attention to the core gut meaning of who you are, you have choices, your perception is attitude, live in the life
you are called for, find and be your purpose, pay attention (focus), celebrate all that you have and are, share, motivate
others. If you need a church calling, watch Super Soul Sundays on OWN Network. Be present in the moment, for it is
a present. Get it? Burn the old, embrace the new, and take out the garbage. Spring Clean that Soul. And if this article
speaks to you, hire a Life Coach, they will help you get the job done! Amen.
We live in a rat race and we all can become distanced from our own passions and strength in what we feel is our
meaning in life. Despite our image(our occupation), we lose ourselves and become at a LOSS and LOST from a real
source within, spirit or soul. Meditate spirituality with meaning and quality. If we do not connect with this we get sick,
sad and settle. We fade into a world that is only a perception of illusion and disrespect for honoring and obeying the
truth. So, what is the real truth? I promise you it is not what you think. I would recommend Oprah’s Tour to anyone. More than words, wisdom and teachings, but a majestic and powerful
soul moving episode that will churn your guts and invoke the meaning to anchor your truth plus dispel the negative.
With this much positive enforcement, I am sure she will have to do something again to revive us all again,
very soon... DAMON HARPER
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
39
Doobie Brothers, WAR, Sam Woolf and Les Sabler
Winterfest – A Music Wonderland
Northern California’s four-time Grammy-winning Doobie Brothers sound has become part of America’s musical firmament. They continue to write and record new material, tour the world, boasting one of the most loyal fan bases
in music, all the while breaking new creative ground in the exploration of their musical connection with Nashville.
The Doobies have three multi-platinum, seven platinum and 14 gold albums. The Doobies propulsive, roots-based,
harmony-laden, guitar-driven style has sold more than 30 million albums. In all, the Doobies have tallied up five
top-10 singles and16 top-40 hits.
WAR has sold more than 50 million albums worldwide, with its mix of funk, jazz, R&B and rock & roll. Whether
listening to “Lowrider” on “Grand Theft Auto San Andreas” or on classic vinyl, WAR’s music is a timeless thread in
the quilt of American pop culture. In addition, WAR has been honored with 17 gold, platinum and multi-platinum
awards. Today, WAR is a permanent part of America’s pop cultural landscape and has profoundly impacted the
music industry.
Folk/pop singer and songwriter Sam Woolf gained national recognition as a finalist on American Idol’s 2014
season, where he placed in the Top 5 and performed with the other finalists on the 40-city American Idol Live Tour.
The 18-year-old Woolf is known for his original arrangements, beautiful pitch-perfect tone and emotional original
songs. His performances and recordings have received millions of views on YouTube.
Les Sabler’s first recording project came in 1989 when asked to score a Canadian Television Network documentary
titled “Lost Treasures of the Titanic.” The following year, he released his solo debut CD, “Hidden Treasure.”
In 2003, Sabler’s third album, “Bridge the Gap,” received much attention. Sabler was nominated for Album and
Guitarist of the Year honors at the inaugural Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards two years later. His most recent
release, “Jobim Tribute,” has been very well-received by critics, radio and listeners and reached No. 1 on Amazon
Brazilian jazz and Latin jazz best sellers.
Winterfest will be held Feb. 28 at Lakewood Ranch’s Premier Sports Campus on Post Road in Lakewood Ranch.
Gates open at noon and the music starts at 1 p.m. Festival-goers should bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on.
Winterfest will offer food and drink for purchase from various vendors, as well as an artisan village for a little
shopping fun! Winterfest is a family-friendly event: The Kids’ Zone – an area for children to be entertained away
from the main stage – will feature crafts, activities and kids-only food.
The Palmetto-based Del Couch Music Education Foundation will be a Winterfest beneficiary. The non-profit organization was formed to provide students with opportunities to create and learn the art of music.
“We are really looking forward to having the Dobbie Brothers, WAR and all the other acts – like our own Sam Woolf
and Les Sabler – perform at this year’s Winterfest,” said organizer Antonio Saviano. “It is a chance to see some
great performers in a great environment. It gives people in and around our beautiful Lakewood Ranch community
an opportunity to gather together to enjoy great music. This year’s Winterfest will also include plenty of entertainment activities for kids and variety of foods vendors.
For information on sponsorship, contact 941-757-1582 or email antonio.saviano@premiersportscampus.com.
To get on the official mailing list for updates, or to download the sponsorship packet, visit www.lwrwinterfest.com
40
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
41
Bassist, Guitarist, Vocalist,
Drummer & Songwriter
Berry
Duane Oakley
In 2007 Sarasota became home to Berry Duane
Oakley. As the son of Berry Oakley, founding Bassist of
The Allman Brothers Band there couldn’t have a better
place for him to settle into and share his music. Berry lost
his Dad in a tragic motorcycle accident in Macon, Georgia on November 11, 1972 five months before Berry
Duane Oakley was born.
Berry was raised by his Mom Julia and Stepfather
“Dad” Chuck Negron, yes, the Chuck Negron of Three
Dog Night Fame. He grew up in Los Angeles and he
clearly inherited the gift and love of music through his
extended family’s vast community of creative music talent.
Lets not forget the inherited genes from an incredible musician as well.
Berry has worked with countless musicians, artists,
producers and song writers over the years. He’s toured
with several bands, including his godfather, Robby Krieger’s (The Doors) band, “RKB” from 1991-2000. In 1992
Berry joined Bloodline. Bloodline’s line-up included Berry
Oakley, Waylon Krieger, Lou Segreti, Joe Bonamassa and
Erin Davis (son of Miles Davis). Releasing their self-titled
CD for EMI Records, in August of 1994, Bloodline’s first
single, “Stone Cold Hearted” scored on several charts.
Bloodline toured the US extensively with the likes of
Lynyrd Skynyrd, Tesla, ZZ Top, Bad Company, Bob Dylan,
and many more. They also appeared on Late Night with
Conan O’Brian, as well as many other talk shows and
programs.
In 1996 Berry put together OKB (Oakley Krieger
Band) with Waylon Krieger, Duane Betts (son of Dickey
Betts), & Alec Puro (Deadsy). OKB slammed the circuit
with its heavy Southern rock guitar sound earning Berry
the Rock City News Award for “Best Bass Player 1997.”
In 2000, Berry teamed up with Blue Floyd, a jam
band whose goal was to take Pink Floyd’s music back
to its blues roots. I had the good fortune of catching this
act live at The IMAC Theater in Huntington N.Y. It was a
great show. The band featured some of the best in the
42
Family Beautiful
BOSK Photography
business. The list will speak for itself with artists such as
Mark Ford (Black Crowes), Matt Abts (Gov’t Mule) Johnny
Neal (Allman Brothers) & Allen Woody (Gov’t Mule), and
later Audley Freed (Cry of Love, Black Crowes) Jeff Peaver
(Crosby Stills & Nash), & Alvin Youngblood Heart. Blue
Floyd has backed such greats as Matt “Guitar” Murphy,
Steve Cropper, Buddy Miles, and many others as they
toured extensively through the US & Europe.
When not out touring with Blue Floyd, Berry could
be found playing in Marc Ford & the Sinners as well as
Malibu’s notorious Backbone 69. (Berry appears on Marc
Ford’s solo debut record “It’s About Time.”) Since 2004
he’s been playing in another notorious Malibu band 27
Miles (formally 454.) Berry appears on their debut record
“Bringing it Back.”
When asked why he plays with and shares the stage
with all these great musicians and acts, Berry’s answer is:
“My goal is to learn as much as I can from music and
the musician’s that I’ve been blessed to work with. And I
plan to continue playing and to soon be producing bands
and artist as well as my own music.”
From 2002- 2013 Berry played bass for his Step-Dad
Chuck Negron’s Band, “CNB.” Chuck is the original hitmaking vocalist behind such Three Dog Night hits as “Joy
to the World” and “One is the Loneliest Number.” “It was
a joy working with him. I remember watching Three Dog
Night as a kid and how much the music and their performance always moved me. I got to share the stage with
him and his wonderful band playing all those wonderful
songs together.”
Since arriving in Sarasota, Florida, Berry can be
found playing with many of the great musicians that call
Sarasota their home. When not on the road, you can find
Berry playing weekly on Siesta Key as well as many of
other venues in the Sarasota and Manatee County area.
When not playing Berry spends his idle time with his wife,
Diana, and family. He has four children, Shaun, Jessica, James & Declan Oakley. As he puts it “Family is a
wonderful thing.”
“I love it down here. The musicians are so kind,
wonderful and open to new idea’s and fun ways to play
songs. The amount of talent on a weekly basis around
here blows me away. I mean, on any given day here in
Sarasota, you can find an awesome show filled with top
notch musicians putting on outstanding performances
and having a fun time doing it. It’s a nice change from
the vibes of Hollywood and Los Angeles.”
Aside from local gigs in the Sarasota area and guest
gigs with extended Allman Brothers Band members such
as Dickey Betts & Great Southern and Gov’t Mule, you
will find Berry tearing it up with his new project SKYLAB.“
It’s about to take off so keep your ears and eyes open as
SKYLAB’s musical experimentation’s start to spread.” Be
it his solo acoustic act or tearing it up with some of the
local brothers or making waves with SKYLAB, he will not
disappoint. Make your plans to catch him. You can follow
him through his website at www.berryoakley.net. You can
also find him on Facebook, Twitter and Youtube.
Let’s Keep Live Music Alive & Well. Tim Calandra
Faithful to the Gym Isn’t it so exciting the first time you join a gym? It feels
great to finally make a step into insuring healthy living.
But then, sadly, most of us don’t stick to the promises
we make to ourselves, and we create excuses not to go.
Summer vacations tend to keep us away from the gym,
and we get out of the habit – and then we simply do not
want to work out!
Studies show that the average health club member
in the United States of America spends only about 90
days at the gym per year. (Reported by The International
Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association.) So what are
the things that can make us motivated to exercise? Here
are some great ideas that will help.
Look for an exercise buddy. We enjoy going to the
gym with friends or someone we can meet there at a
particular time. Buddying will automatically make us
more likely to show up. Invite your friends or someone
along. They will surely appreciate it. Going with family
and friends to the gym makes the time go by so fast
because you’re having fun while exercising.
Get to know the people in the gym. One of the
reasons many women enjoy gym membership is that it
is often part exercise facility and part social club.
Have a conversation or talk to your doctor.
Exercise is definitely good for our health and the best
thing we can do for ourselves. Aside from lessening the
risk of cancer, it can also lower our blood pressure while
keeping us slim. It is very encouraging to hear about our
improvement from our doctor. Share information about
your fitness records with your doctor. He will be happy
about what you are doing and will surely encourage
you. Evaluate your eating habits with your doctor – this
will also promote results.
Make a chart of your Progress! Write down your
fitness goals, and take time to keep a food journal or an
exercise log. Post it where you will see it every day. It can
be a great motivation seeing daily progress to your goals.
Give yourself a Reward! If you think it would be
too hard for you to lose, say, 80 pounds, the very
thought has killed your motivation. You have to avoid
discouraging thoughts like this and reward yourself for
smaller accomplishments. Treat yourself when you lose
few pounds. Then a bigger treat when you’re halfway
to your goal. These small steps will help you make up a
long journey. You have accomplished your goal before
you even know it!
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
43
44
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
45
46
Family Beautiful
+
LAMBORGHINI
S A R A S O TA
.COM
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
47
48
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
49
The New Boxster
A Higher Form
It’s candy apple red, low slung and sleek, convertible and drives like a dream. Sexy, sultry and always in style; it is
the new Porsche Boxster. It is a powerful, mid-engined sports car, a pure bred roadster. And, I was king of the road
in Sarasota. This car has evolved into something even more evocative of the essence of Porsche performance.
With the top down, your range of vision expands to match the high resolution of the chassis, feeding back enough
detail through the seat and electrically assisted steering that even at speeds less than 80 mph, the car feels fast and
exciting. Go speedier, and the Boxster just says more, but always in a encouraging tone: “I am helping to make you
a better driver. Now, go glide around that hairpin like a bat out of hades.”
I had the ultimate pleasure of driving this baby for a week, and it was very difficult to return it. There is something so
sexy about driving a Porsche. The mere act of stepping into the driver’s seat, putting your hands on the wheel and
inching your well designed shoe on to the accelerator takes the driving experience up many notches. Sure it may not
be the most practical car to use every day, but it makes every day driving just that much better.
The same could be said of the Boxster’s handling; it’s a well-balanced, easy-to-drive-fast roadster. It’s also incredibly
fun to drive, with the motor singing just behind the seats (but not unbearably so when just cruising), the wind blowing
through the cabin, and a long, winding road laid out before you. Ride and comfort are also very good, especially in
models equipped with the adjustable suspension. A set of buttons in the center console provide sportier settings on top
of the standard mode, which modify ride quality (and several other parameters) to suit the driver’s mood. The Boxster is a statement that you take your travels seriously, you love the road and you relish style, performance and
function. It is not for those who prefer to sit in the background and observe, this Boxster is for those who take the bull by
the horns and own the road! SUSAN SHORT
www.Suncoastporsche.com
50
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
51
The Perfect Porsche Panamera Hybrid
Porsche
I slipped into the sumptuous cockpit of the new Porsche Panamera Hybrid and all of my cares seemed to slide away.
The sleek and elegant design was more akin to a luxury sedan, which of course it is, and as soon as you applied
pressure to the accelerator, well, you know you are driving a special breed of sports car.
The Panamera Hybrid is silent, as it is just that; a hybrid. You almost have to check to see if the car is actually running,
it is that quiet. And gas? Well, I had it for a week or so and the gauge barely moved from the full mark although I
drive around town quite a bit. What is the secret? The Hybrid engine that you can easily charge with the lightweight
plug adapters and it will also switch to hybrid mode automatically.
This gem of a sports car is one of uncompromising performance. It incorporates luxury and high performance
seamlessly. This utterly distinctive contradiction is the stuff dreams are made of; however the reality is within your
reach. The design is truly significant. This evolution is driven by function, the enlarged air intakes in the front end help
to provide optimal cooling for the engine and brakes. This design is sharper, edgier and the fenders are actually higher
than the hood. They add muscle to the rear of the car. The roofline tapers down to the rear. The LED taillights are
narrower and more crisply defined.
It features Bi-Xenon headlights. The daytime running lights have been integrated into the main headlight units in the
form for four LED spotlights. Tradition, forward styling and performance, this is the new Panamera!
The Hybrid I was fortunate enough to experience has a new lithium-based high voltage battery. The operating range of
the hybrid drive begins with emissions free and quiet driving up to top track speed of around 83 MPH. This E mobility
allows the car to go up to 22 miles on this power alone.
We did have the chance to test the Panamera on the DeSoto Speedway track and that baby flies! It handles like a
dream. It was hard to discern that you were actually driving a sedan rather than a sports car. What matters is the
emotion when driving...is it the eye or the feeling of driving?
The Panamera Hybrid maintains the integrity of the design with its distinctive logo. My favorite is the finishing touches
with the acid green color of the needles in the instrument panel as well as the brake calipers in the same amazing
color. This extreme design and performance can take your breath away as it did mine...I just may have to chase after
this one! Susan Short
www.SuncoastPorsche.com
52
Family Beautiful
The world changes once you slide
into the cockpit of the Aston Martin.
You are no longer a casual driver, a
SUV kind of a person. You become a
different entity. One who relishes the
very act of driving; to become one with
the road. The history and panache of
the DB9 and the Aston Martin brand
precedes itself. It is a rare sighting,
the Aston Martin, and to drive one is
something dreams are made of.
The DB9 was delivered on a bright,
sunny day. It glistened in the sun; the
sky blue exterior bouncing light into
the horizon. The roof just begged to
come down, even in the mid fall heat.
With a simple press of a button, the
world opened up as the roof perfectly
retracted in one brief minute. But, I am
getting ahead of myself.
Aston
Martin
The DB9 is like a piece of gorgeous
jewelry. It something that envelops
you and as a female, I must say it is
certainly an eye catcher. The engine
is extremely quick and responsive, I
rarely saw another car when accelerating after a red light would turn. When
driving, I noticed the stares, the other
cars slowing down to take a peek...
often wondering I am sure, where
James Bond was hiding.
Yes, the DB9 Aston Martin is the car
preferred by Mr. 007, Bond, James
Bond that is. Featured in most of the
films since the 1960’s, the car’s
evolution has been captured forever
on film. Ian Fleming wrote that the debonair, hard as nails British spy, James Bond would drive the modified vehicle for
“spy” purposes through Europe hunting villians such as Goldfinger. So it began, the love affair between the British spy,
James Bond and the Aston Martin.
When Bond asked “Q” “where’s my Bentley?,”Q replies, “Oh, it’s had its day, I am afraid.” This sealed the fate of the
iconic place of the luxury sportscar in the Bond films. Even the latest “SkyFall” produced in 2012 features Daniel Craig
driving the DB5 in Scotland for the explosive climax.
Of course, the beauty of all Bond’s cars has been that they are always so much more than they appear. Like so many of
Bond’s love interests, they are attractive on the surface, but deadly beneath the bonnet. Bond’s silver DB5 in Goldfinger
had its cutting-edge modifications courtesy of production designer Sir Ken Adam, whose work on Bond films and with
Stanley Kubrick would soon make him a movie legend. The car had revolving
number plates, which meant he could drive through France and Switzerland
without alerting anyone to the presence of a foreign car. One switch would
cause an oil slick; another activated machine guns on the wings of the car;
yet another allowed the driver to use tire slashers that extended from the front
wheels; and hidden in the gear stick was a button to activate the passenger
ejector seat. Susan Short
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
53
Speed and High Style
with the Lamborghini Huracán
It was a cool Monday, nothing truly out of the ordinary when my day was turned into something resembling a scene
from a George Clooney thriller. I was handed the key remote for something that most people only have in their dreams.
I was professionally escorted to the Lamborghini’s new “entry-level” super car, the Huracán. It picks up where the exotic
Gallardo left off.
Its angular design manages to be both austere and elegant, yet is has a stealth fighter plane style cockpit that is
luxurious as well as, let’s just say, intense. Nestled behind the passengers is a 602-hp V-10 mated to a seven-speed
dual-clutch automated gearbox (no manual transmission is offered) and all-wheel drive, helping Lambo’s new rocket,
for lack of a better term, accelerate from 0–60 mph in just under three seconds, and a top speed of 202 mph.
Granted, I really felt the need for speed, and it was something more like an uncontrollable urge to just push down
on the accelerator just a bit harder to see how fast the Huracán can move. It was the most fun I can say that I have ever
had driving on our notorious I-75. I left most of the other vehicles in the dust, with just slight pressure on the gas.
A car with this much drama and this much speed doesn’t let your pulse rest for long. The Huracán corners flat,
grips doggedly, and blitzes out of bends. But it keeps your heart rate from fully redlining by being just as precise and
predictable as it is explosive. There’s more understeer in this four-wheel-drive Huracán than elsewhere in the mid-engine stratum, but it’s hardly the insanely fast push I had heard about with other Lamborghini’s Trail the brakes or lift in
a corner and the aluminum-and-carbon-fiber space frame willingly changes direction.
The extreme exterior could be a bit intimidating for the uninitiated, but that wore off quickly as you slide into the
sumptuous leather seats and buckle in for the ride of your life. Did other cars stop and bring out their camera apps?
Why of course. The seas parted for the Huracán, crowds gathered when parked on the lovely Lakewood Ranch Main
Street, people asking for their pictures to be taken. I was even told that just a photo near the car was the best experience of the year for one person!
Sadly, my love affair with this perfection of speed and materials had to come to an end. It was almost like a fairytale
dream, where your prince was there for that perfect moment and then, just as he came into your life, he was gone in the
blink of an eye. Or, shall I say, I was gone in a blink of an eye in my Lamborghini Huracán. Susan Short
www.LamborghiniSarasota.com
54
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
55
Rosa Fiorelli Winery
Nestled in the rolling hills of eastern Manatee County you will find family owned and operated Rosa Fiorelli Winery, headed
by Vintner and Wine Connoisseur, Salvatore Fiorelli. Salvatore is following his father's legacy, Antonio Fiorelli, founder and
pioneer of Rosa Fiorelli Winery. This flourishing winery named after Salvatore's mom, Rosa, actually started out as a
hobby by Antonio who understood vines. After relocating to Bradenton from Casteldaccia, Sicily, the Fiorelli’s soon
had their start, five rows of bunch grapes in their backyard.
Not able to grow the European strains in Florida due to climate – Cabernet, Merlot, Pinot Nior– they have muscadine grape
(vitis) in multiple varieties – red Noble & red Carlos. Both of these grapes produce a very exotic flavor, prominent to the
region. The winery also produces hybrid varieties that contain the vih's vinfura lineage producing grapes with the hybrid,
creating a similar yet different flavor of four varieties. They produce dry reds and whites along with dessert blush and white
wines – blending to create a more complex & unique type of wine. Seven varieties can be purchased at the winery.
Antonio brought a traditional Italian wine-making method with him – the passion of the Artisan product has been lost.
Put true love in the wine and you can taste it. “Vitis vin fera.” With the passing of Antonio in 2013, Salvatore stepped in
to continue the legacy and craft of what wine truly meant to Antonio. Machinery is only used for crushing and pressing,
bare hands handle the other processes.
For the future, Sal sees an added increase in product line by sourcing fresh fruit from other regions to expand to a broad
spectrum of wines! The Marine Corp vet and FSU graduate will accomplish this by studying wine everyday, reading text
books and reading vintner blogs.
Rosa Fiorelli Winery has year round events – dinner & wine pairing – arts & crafts – painting with a twist – winter & spring
easel painting – artist instructed – hors d’oeurves & wine. There are tasting tours, lunch packages and dinner combinations consisting of food, wine, sangria & entertainment.
Enjoy a full spectrum of wines including Rosa Fiorelli Winery's award winning wines. Details at: www.fiorelliwinery.com
Salute!! Cheers!! Susan Short, Donna Fishburn
56
Family Beautiful
In Style with Barton and Gray
All Aboard
Barton & Gray Mariners Club
is a fabulously fantastic, luxury
day boating club. It is truly a
one of a kind indulgently posh
boating experience. Launched
in Sarasota at the Longboat
Key Club & Resort, Sarasota
members can enjoy cruising
to destinations such as Marina
Jack’s for dinner in downtown
Sarasota or an afternoon on
the beach at Siesta Key, or a
private island in the sun. Just
about anything is possible and
within reach.
Barton & Gray also features
winter harbors in Boca Grande,
Naples and Palm Beach,
Florida. In Boca Grande
members enjoy a reciprocal
membership at Useppa Island,
an exclusive private island
club. Members may also travel
to Cabbage Key to enjoy a
famous Cheeseburger in Paradise.
In Naples two B&G Hinckleys make frequent cruises to Keewaydin Island, a private boat-only accessible island, and
Venetian Village for lunch or shopping.
Palm Beach plays host to B&G Hinckley’s MISS DEVINE E and LARK at the Palm Beach Yacht Club. Members enjoy
cruising to Peanut Island to view the historic bunker built for President Kennedy on the Intracoastal Waterway, or a
ride to Frigate’s restaurant in style to enjoy their world famous fish taco.
The exquisite Mariners Club is proud of their new location in Miami at the Miami Beach Marina. Enjoy spectacular
boating while cruising on the beautiful 44’ Hinckley Talaria named Mariner 1.
The sea and the waterways serve as the clubhouse, from Nantucket, Massachusetts to Naples, Florida. Barton & Gray
offers a fleet of crewed Hinckley Yachts along the Eastern Seaboard. Members have unlimited access to the entire fleet
all year long in the most desirable ports and destinations. Offering a one-of-a-kind cruising experience, Barton & Gray
takes its members to uncharted territories from private island experiences to harbor cruises and dinner under the stars.
Barton & Gray Mariners Club is the world’s first and finest luxury day boating club, operating a fleet of captained
Hinckley Yachts along the east coast. Membership in the club grants access to the fleet in any of its 13 locations, with
a private concierge service tending to all provisioning and scheduling needs. Paddleboards and other amenities are
also available upon request. The fleet is comprised entirely of Hinckley motor yachts. Based in Southwest Harbor,
Maine, Hinckley builds down east-style lobster boats powered by a jet drive rather than propeller, which allows for
easy beach and shore access. The yachts boast handmade mahogany and teak wood decking, rails and custom
cabinetry. Susan Short
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
57
Photos by InStudio E Photography
58
Family Beautiful
A Premiere of Men’s Fashion
WINTER in Sarasota
As we welcome in the New Year, those of us that are spending the
season here in Sarasota have much to look forward to, a season
full of exciting options.
Sarasota has so much to
offer residents and tourists
alike. Great hotels, fabulous restaurants, beautiful
beaches, boating and golf
courses. Something for
everyone.
At Marcello Sport , on beautiful St. Armands Circle, our store
is full of the latest in quality mens’ fashions. Our staff is ready
to help you look and feel your best, while you enjoy all that
this area has to offer.
Marcello Sport carries a complete range of sportswear including sports shirts, sweaters, dress and casual slacks and shorts,
tee shirts and jeans,
the latest styles and
colors.
We also carry an
extensive collection of leather jackets for those cool evenings. This season we showing an “ Italian baby lambskin”
leather that reverses to suede. This jacket is lightweight and
available in several fashion colors – “ Magnifico.”
For your evenings out and special functions, Marcello Sport
carries a great selection of fashion sport coats and accessories.
We are also the headquarters for “ loudmouth golf” and a nice
selection of colorful and casual shorts, swimwear and shirts.
It’s all here for you at Marcello Sport.
18 S. Blvd of Presidents, St. Armands Circle, Sarasota, Fl • 941-706-1357
Sarasota, Ft. Lauderdale, Boca Raton • Online Store: www.marcellosport.com
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
59
60
Family Beautiful
Photos by InStudio E Photography
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
61
62
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
63
64
Family Beautiful
2015 Academy Awards Party
On Sunday, February 22nd, Sarasota Film Society will be hosting the 87th annual Academy Awards Party at both Burns
Court and Lakewood Ranch Cinemas. The Oscars are usually Hollywood’s biggest night, however, once again they may
be overshadowed by the “Indies.” Films like “Imitation Game,” “Theory of Everything,” “The Grand Budapest Hotel,”
“Whiplash” and “Boyhood” were first premiered at our Burns Court Cinema and have been mentioned as potential
nominees. It is only fitting that we should briefly mention the success of this year’s Cine-World Film Festival. If you were
fortunate enough to buy passes early on you were treated to some of the best Toronto had to offer. We are looking
forward to seeing you at the Oscars.
Sunday, February 22, 2015
Burns Court and Lakewood Ranch Cinemas
7:00 pm cocktail reception followed by the
Academy Awards Live on the big screen
Open wine, beer and soft drink bar
Hors d’oeuvres served during cocktail party
Silent Auction
Trivia Contest
Category ballot contest
Additional info contact tim@filmsociety.org or 941 364-8662 ext. 2008
This year as in the past, Sarasota Film Society will continue
its commitment in supporting various charitable organizations throughout 2015.
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
65
May Your
Dreams
Come
True
66
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
67
68
Family Beautiful
A Unique Setting for a Perfect Wedding
Located on the scenic Manatee River, the Bradenton Yacht Club features 6 acres of paradise. Enjoy picture perfect
sunsets while watching dolphins play in the sparkling water. The Clubhouse boasts many amenities for your event –
a charming gazebo is the ideal spot for your ceremony or outdoor cocktail gathering, while the elegantly appointed
ballroom provides a lovely reception area with it’s wall-to-wall windows. Strategically located private rooms are just
right for a rehearsal dinner or bridal shower.
The Club offers complete wedding packages that include: a complimentary champagne toast, an hour of passed hors
d’oeuvres, tables, chairs, china, silver and glassware, a wide array of mouthwatering menu ideas, house linen and the
expert assistance of a Professional Event Planner and a Certified Executive Chef.
We invite you to visit us and share in the happy, rewarding memories being made at Bradenton Yacht Club!
Wendy Wallis
Bradenton Yacht Club
4307 Snead Island Road
Palmetto, Florida 34221
(941) 722-5936
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
69
BeacHhouse and Sandbar
They didn’t invent beach front weddings … THEY SIMPLY PERFECTED THEM!!!
The BeacHhouse and Sandbar restaurants located directly on the Gulf of Mexico provide the perfect setting for your
dream ceremony and reception. Fabulous food, unmatched service and breathtaking sunsets put the BeacHhouse and
Sandbar a step above other waterfront venues. That step being, that they offer actual Toes in the Sand ceremonies!
The staff understands this is the most important day of your life. They are committed to making the quality of your event
live up to the greatest location one could imagine. The BeacHhouse and Sandbar have been making dreams come true
for more than 20 years. Both have been chosen for Wedding Wire’s “Best of the Best Weddings” in 2010, 2011, 2012
and 2013. They have also received consecutive yearly awards from the brides and grooms of the Knot.com.
These world class settings and award winning spots have become the number one requested venues for Gulf-side weddings
at their finest. The Sandbar Restaurant’s wedding and event pavilion, an open-air gazebo style structure, can accommodate
a small intimate gathering or an elaborate affair. The BeacHhouse, with an expansive 650 foot deck, offers several venues
within one to accommodate small to large affairs. It is clear that they take pride in being part of your celebration.
The Sandbar located at the north end of Anna Maria Island, and the BeacHhouse located at the south end by Cortez Road,
both provide ideal venues where gorgeous teal colored waves lap against the pristine white sand beaches. The skies are
dappled with an array of spectacular colors, providing the perfect backdrop for creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Both restaurants offer you and your guests a wide choice of sumptuous dishes to please every palate, from the finest
fresh seafood, and beef and poultry, complimented by a full selection of fine wines and tropical libations. Their
classically trained chefs will customize a menu designed to fit your party size and needs. For a worry free event
contact the BeacHhouse or Sandbar event coordinators, they will make all your wedding dreams come true.
BeacHhouse, special events coordinators Shawn Rhoton or Jamie Berfield: 941.778.8718
Sandbar Restaurant, special events coordinator Patti McKee: 941.778.8709
70
Family Beautiful
Romance on the Bay
Voted the Most Romantic Restaurant in Sarasota, Ophelia’s on the Bay
specializes in memorable bay-side weddings, for up to 100 people
offering both a waterfront ceremony and reception venue. Ophelia’s is
also a beautiful location for rehearsal dinners and the Sunday Farewell Brunch after the wedding. We offer off-site catering options if so
desired, so you can bring Ophelia’s spectacular food to any venue.
Please contact Kristina at 941.349.2212 as soon as you are ready to
start planning your dream waterfront wedding!
You can follow our beautiful bayside weddings at
www.facebook.com/OpheliasOnTheBayFL
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
71
Your Special Day of Beauty Should Be In Our Expert Hands
Bridal Hair • Makeup Consultation
Expert Updo • Complete Spa Facilities
Ana Molinari, the famed salon and spa is the premiere location for your look for that very special day. Not settling for
anything close to the ordinary, Ana Molinari is meticulous with the process of deciding how you will look on the most
important day of your life. Wedding and engagement hair styling includes an extremely customized and detailed trial
run in order to achieve perfection on the wedding day.
At least two hours is allotted in order to find the most flattering and knock-out look. They have over 10 years of wedding experience and are highly skilled in listening, understanding and executing the most glamorous and elegant style
for the bride to be.
The stylists have a lifelong passion to achieve excellence in all that they do at Ana Molinari. They listen and process the
individual needs of each client and the exquisite results can be found in the magnificent photos of the bride.
Whether it be a fashion forward look, or a sublime, simple updo, the stylists at Ana Molinari are available to access the
client’s needs and wishes. They are also superb in creating special event hair and dazzling make-up for the many social
occasions that arise throughout the season in Sarasota, Manatee and beyond.
Ana Molinari Salon and Spa can provide hair, nails, and spa services including their recently opened Med Spa, Skin
Nouveau Visage, located within the Lakewood Ranch location. SUSAN SHORT
72
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
73
Nothing is better for the body and soul than
a relaxing and balancing spa treatment...
Ahhhh. . .Spa
Botinol Facial
As you walk into the warm and inviting Blue Door Spa and Salon you realize you are in for a reposeful treat. Blue
Door’s menu has an array of applications and/or treatments to cover the human body. Today, my delicacy was a
Botinol Facial.
Botinol is G.M. Collin’s signature age-defying treatment. A great
clinical, non-invasive alternative to micro-injections often found with
Botox, collagen, etc. The results are optimized with the same effect, with
an exception – no needles, no pain and no trauma. This procedure includes a combination of five peptides, four of which are: Matrixyl, Myoxinal, Argirline and Retinal. The method is inventive and clinically proven.
This cocktail of anti-aging actions corrects lines and wrinkles, reinforces
and intensifies the skin while also revitalizing, rejuvenating, and stimulating the skin’s metabolic activity.
My Botinol facial was a super relaxing treatment seance that enveloped
my skin with gratifying consistency and a total sense of well being. With
Nicky Nagy, owner of Blue Door and a fabulous esthetician, I felt tranquil as she applied her artistic style. As I laid there on the comfortable
“bed,” I was pleased to feel no irritation or discomfort. This four-step
facial showcased my lines visibly reduced along with my skin appearing
younger, just after one treatment. I highly recommend the fascinating
Botinal facial to maintain the youthful appearance every woman
deserves. I embraced quite an exquisite essence of wistfulness about
me as I reentered the real world again. Susan Short
Blue Door Spa and Salon, 5234 E. State Road 64, Bradenton, Fl.
34208 941.747.0111
74
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
75
TRAVEL
I had heard about this geographic region of Central Florida, but didn’t know what
to make of it. Was it a town? Was it part of Disney World? It was time to find out.
Time for Celebration
Remember that movie starring Jim Carrey back in the 1990’s called “The Truman Show?” It was this idyllic community
where everything was perfect, straight from a fairy tale? That could have been filmed in Celebration. It makes Lakewood Ranch seem like Height-Asbury or SoHo.
Celebration began around the time of that Jim Carrey movie actually. It is a master-planned community originally
developed by the Walt Disney Company. Though Disney has since divested, one of it’s streets, World Drive, actually
begins near the actual Magic Kingdom.
Another road, Celebration Place, leads you to Melia—a perfect hotel minutes from downtown Celebration. This facility
opened in 2008, rates range from $99-$299, and it has 240 suites. It’s like staying in your own sparkling-clean 2/2
apartment, complete with a spacious kitchen with full-size appliances.
Interior suites overlook a large pool in the courtyard of Melia. It’s a winding circular pool with lots of twists and turns
and privacy. As a former DJ, I was impressed by the light-mix of music that gently wafted overhead.
Having written about dozens of properties for Family Beautiful over the years, I try to focus on the little things that show
a place is trying:
*Not only do they stock the kitchen with regular and decaf coffee packets, they also include actual creamers in the
refrigerator. No powder here!
76
Family Beautiful
*This is tell-tale: Every worker we passed on the sidewalk
or in the hallway greeted us with a smile. To me, that is
huge. I don’t deal with sullen employees, and I don’t
want to hear any complaining or internal chatter among
workers. Not the case here!
*If you don’t want to drive into downtown Celebration, the
hotel has a shuttle and will take you on a moment’s notice.
They’ll also take you to the area theme parks as well.
The other big thing about Melia is the food! Two restaurants, downstairs and upstairs off the lobby, casual and
less casual. Executive Chef Timothy Schumacher sets a
great tone for his staff. We enjoyed a first-class tapas
dinner and omelets for breakfast during our stay.
Another Reason to
Enjoy Celebration
Tucked away in the massive Florida Hospital
complex in the Celebration community is a jewel
of a facility. It’s called “The Fitness Centre &
Day Spa.”
Just down the hall from the hospital’s main
entrance is a combination health club and spa.
The brochure calls it “A great place to renew your
body, mind and spirit,” and it’s really true!
We also enjoyed chatting with John Gallacher, the Assistant Food & Beverage Director. Both gentlemen dealt
with my gluten-allergy in stride, something I always
appreciate.
When we first arrived, I was given a locker to
change clothes – and then go up to the work-out
area to loosen up on the treadmill, shoot baskets
in the gym, and lift weights.
Don’t put off your Celebration! This is a great place for
a family to spread out in the suite, take a shuttle to the
theme park and come back to some great cooking—all
under one roof. RAY COLLINS
Then the time arrived to switch into one of those
soft bathrobes and a short trip down another hall
and a world away.
I was lucky enough to have Virginia Melendez as
my massage therapist. The good news is —she
was so soothing. The bad news is — she put
me to sleep! That’s an expensive nap! She was
wonderful.
Erin enjoyed a facial with a therapist named Unity
which she thoroughly enjoyed. They were able to
talk about their mutual love of essential oils.
The menu also includes holistic health & wellness
(acupuncture), waxing, hot stones as well as
manicures and pedicures. The list goes on. (More
information at 407-303-4444.)
We plan to return soon to experience their cuttingedge fitness assessment.
It’s a hidden gem in the middle of a beautiful
place in Central Florida. RAY COLLINS
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
77
TRAVEL
Florida’s Paradise Coast
Marco Island
They don’t call the Naples/Marco Island area “Florida’s
Paradise Coast” without good reason. Husband, Ken,
and I recently spent three days on Marco Island. We
quickly discovered that we should have scheduled more
time to explore this incredibly beautiful part of the Southwest Florida coast. We were able to only scratch
the surface of the area’s myriad vacation possibilities.
Marco Island is a drive of less than three hours from the
Sarasota/Manatee area. The instant you cross the bridge
onto the island, you are aware that you are entering a
very special place. The lush tropical foliage, carefully
tended landscaping and attractive buildings convey the
message of an upscale resort.
Our lodging during our stay was at the Olde Marco
Island Inn & Suites. This charming hotel is located in the
historic downtown area. The original hotel dates back
to 1883. New additions have been added since and we
were in one of the newer sections. Although our suite had
a fully equipped kitchen, we had our breakfast at the
hotel’s French restaurant, “Petit Soleil.” The combination
of delicious food and impeccable service was impossible
to resist. Hostess, Maya, and server, Jason anticipated
every request and the buttery, flaky croissants were out
of this world. It was at Petit Soleil that we met Gina Sisbarro who conducts a tour called “Marco, Murder and Mayhem.” Also
known as Martha Horror, Ms. Sisbarro guides visitors
through some of Marco’s darkest secrets including the
famous ghost who resides at the Olde Marco Inn. Her
stories and presentation were fascinating, but our schedule did not permit a full tour. It’s definitely on my
agenda for any return trip.
One of the other places Ms. Sisbarro mentioned as having a resident ghost was Capt. Brien’s Seafood and Raw
Bar. This dining spot is one of the most popular on the
island. Although we did not encounter the ghost during
the evening we ate there, we did enjoy some excellent
and creative cuisine. Owner, JJ Mrozinski recommended
sea scallops prepared with teriyaki, white chocolate, and
honey. They were really good – fork tender with a unique
flavor. Dessert was the best Key lime pie I’ve ever had
and an irresistible chocolate lava cake.
78
Family Beautiful
There are many great eating establishments and the
next evening we dined al fresco at CJ’s on the Bay. This
sophisticated café is located in the Esplanade – an upscale shopping and dining area overlooking Smokehouse
Bay. The view was spectacular and the food and service
were excellent. Since we were there on a Thursday, there
was also live entertainment.
One of the highlights of our trip was a dolphin watch
cruise on the Calusa Spirit operated by Marco Island
Watersports. Captain Joe Richards and First Mate Brady
Sullivan promised we would see dolphins and they surely
delivered on that promise. During the two and a half
hour cruise, the dolphins were all around us. They
followed along side the boat and were even jumping
in the boat’s wake. All the while, First Mate Brady kept
up an entertaining and informative narrative.
The next day we drove to Wooten’s in Ochepee to take an
airboat tour in the Everglades. In all our years in Florida,
we had never taken an airboat ride. It was quite an experience and not for the faint of heart. They can go pretty
fast – about 35 miles per hour and kick up quite a spray.
In spite of the swamp water facial, it was a lot of fun and
we did see several species of birds. The only alligators we
saw were back at Capt. Wooten’s animal sanctuary.
This was our third trip to Marco Island and I am already
looking forward to the next one. Irene Herman Investing in
Precious Metals
U.S. Gold and Silver, Inc. is a reliable and consistent company that does large volume and passes on the savings and
discounts to you. Their goal is to assist and aid individuals and families to protect their assets through the purchasing
of and possessing precious metals or numismatic coins and diamonds. This helps to diversify a portfolio with tangible
assets and helps to build wealth by having at least 10-20% of one’s assets in precious metals such as gold, silver, platinum or diamonds. In an ever changing world this practice serves as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty.
U.S. Gold and Silver, Inc. specializes in buying and selling precious metals, estates and diamonds.
Why Choose U.S. Gold and Silver, Inc.? They are open 6 days a week to take orders and strive for customer satisfaction. In a very competitive market they are often under the price of competition and occasionally even with, yet seldom
above, which guarantees you will always get the best deal if you are looking to establish a long term business relationship. U.S. Gold and Silver, Inc. has a very good reputation backed by the fact that they do very little advertising
and most business comes from customer referrals. Word of mouth is their main source of advertising. Appraisals are
free and in-home appointments are available upon request.
U.S. Gold and Silver, Inc. is very active in philanthropy and has done much to support charities, the community and the arts.
www.usgoldandsilver.org
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
79
TRAVEL
When you approach the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate from the Tampa
Bay area, the 16-story resort stands out like a beacon in the distance. It dwarfs all
buildings around it. When you drive into the complex under the stately wrought-iron
arches, you know you’ve arrived someplace special.
Golf, Food and Spa!
Who ever built this place was thinking ahead. When you walk in the main entrance, your eyes are inevitably drawn to
the big back glass wall that reveals—in order, a fountain, a pool, a large hot tub and then the golf course, all perfectly
elevated one after the next.
Erin and I were fortunate enough to be given a 16th story room overlooking the fountain/pool/tub/golf course on a
balcony where we were able to sit and soak in the view high above Orlando. There are 720 rooms, suites and villas.
One of our favorite things to do upon first arriving at a new facility is to get a little exercise and
explore the grounds. We went for a power walk
around the resort’s 45-golf holes, 15 acres of
recreation and pools, and a conference center. This
was no short walk! (Golfers will also want to know
this facility includes the David Leadbetter Golf
Academy World. We happened to meet him while
we were there. He actually has a house in Manatee
County!)
Afterwards we relaxed by the “formal pool.” This is
one of my favorite features of the Omni Orlando
Resort at ChampionsGate. So often, relaxing vacations are “altered”– shall we say – by young families innocently having loud fun in the pool. That’s
why it’s incredibly shrewd to have two separate
pools—one for relaxation and one to play Marco
Polo. Well done! (Speaking of families, the resort
offers free shuttle service to Orlando area theme
parks.)
We enjoyed a drink on our balcony while admiring
the sunset, and then went down to “David’s Club”
on the far end of the lobby. They call it a high-end
sports bar. Quite a dichotomy: Beautiful leather
chairs, couches and restaurant seating—while surrounded by TV sets, each showing different sports channels. I loved
this restaurant. Plush, comfortable—and our table had a nice view of that well-planned back yard as well.
We had stone crab claws for an appetizer with a mustard-tinged dipping sauce. We had four claws for $60 (They are part
of the on-going “Ingredient of the Month” campaign, featuring one locally-based product each month.), followed by an
80
Family Beautiful
iceberg wedge salad with blue cheese dressing. For
dinner we each had the 8 oz. center cut filet mignon
and baked potato ($42). We also ordered truffled
wild mushrooms and roasted vegetables. We punctuated this wonderful dinner with coffee and a scoop
of ice cream with chocolate sauce. Wow!
Dinner complete, we went to the bar for a nightcap
and mingled with some other hotel guests. David’s
Club is one of several restaurants at the Omni
Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate, each with it’s
own niche.
Before going to sleep, we hung a request sign on
our doorknob and later awakened to a fresh pot
of coffee at the exact time we checked on the card.
Great service!
While Erin caught up with a relative who happens
to live nearby, I slipped downstairs to a Europeanstyle spa. The Mokara Spa is exactly what you
want: friendly staff, gentle music, and soft bathrobes & new slippers. I had a 25-year veteran
massage therapist named Debbie who could have
doubled for the blonde-haired blue-eyed actress
Anna Farris. Debbie was wonderful. Great touch,
service and people skills.($144 including tip.)
I caught up with Erin at a poolside snack bar where I was glad to find they had gluten-free bread. (Allergy, not being
trendy!) We had a nice lunch before we returned to the 16th floor to begin packing and heading back home.
The weekend flew by, and we were less than 100 miles from Sarasota. Orlando is not as far as it seems—especially
when you stay at a place as convenient as this. RAY COLLINS
1-800-The-Omni • www.OmniOrlandoResort.com
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
81
TRAVEL
Divina
Luxury on the High Seas – Mediterranean Shipping Cruises
It had been quite a while since
husband, Ken, and I had sailed with
Mediterranean Shipping Cruises.
Our previous experience was on the
Melody - a small ship that was one if
MSC’s original group. My main recollection of that 2006 cruise was the
energy and enthusiasm of the entertainment staff who practically insisted
that everyone on board have a great
experience. Since that time, MSC
has greatly expanded its fleet and
as is the trend, they are mostly much
larger. One of the newest and largest is the Divina – named for the divine Sophia Loren. When we booked
out latest cruise on the Divina, I was
curious to see if that energetic spirit
was still prevalent. After our first day
on board, I was delighted to see that
the young staff was still doing their
utmost to ensure that a good time
was had by all. That seems to be the
trademark of MSC Cruises and it’s a pretty good one.
Like its illustrious namesake, the Divina is absolutely gorgeous. Impressive art works abound and there is a collection of
photographs highlighting the La Dolce Vita era in Italy that is extremely interesting. Probably the most flamboyant part
of the décor is the “diamond staircase” – the crystal laden steps that dominate the central atrium. With crystal chandeliers that reflect off the stairs, it is easily the most spectacular spot on the ship and very popular for picture taking. The
atrium is also the perfect setting for listening to classical music that is presented each afternoon.
Other types of music and entertainment are available in the theatre and lounges. We were very lucky that there was
a Jazz Fest on board and we were able to sit in and listen to some fine jazz performances. Along with the expected
production shows there was music for listening and dancing. My favorite was a condensed version of La Traviata titled
“Love Me” that featured the Divina singers and dancers and was very well done. More participatory activities were offered by the Entertainment staff. Cruise Director, Andre Schlemmer, described this
group as “animators.” That was certainly an apt description as they urged guests to take part in games, trivia, arts
82
Family Beautiful
and crafts, dancing, karaoke, and
more. Andre is a former dancer
from South Africa who is very serious
about his responsibility to make sure
the passengers are having a good
time. He is also responsible for the
programs for the 3-17 year olds on
board. It was not unusual to encounter groups of little pirates or other
characters. The youngsters even had
their own line at the buffet. Speaking
of the buffet – it was quite extensive
and varied. MSC has a unique option for those
cruisers who are willing too spend
some additional money. The Yacht
Club is a members only section of
the Divina that offers suites, butler
service, private dining and pool,
and other perks. Hotel Director,
Antonio Castellano, described
the Yacht Club as “a ship within a
ship.” It’s the opportunity to have
a small ship experience while still
having the amenities of a larger
ship. We were able to visit the Yacht
Club area and also to dine in the
private Le Muse Restaurant and it
was delightful to feel pampered and
special. It was reminiscent of the
old days of sailing when ships were
divided into different classes. The
food was better than in the regular
dining room, but not much different
from the very good cuisine offered
in the specialty restaurant.
The destination for this cruise
was San Juan, St. Maarten, and
Great Stirrup Cay. Because of
bad weather, Captain Francesco
Veniero opted to substitute Grand
Turk instead of Great Stirrup. It was
obviously a good decision that was
most appreciated by all on board. Unlike some of the other cruise lines,
MSC does not offer free style dining
but schedules early and late dining
in the traditional way. Passengers
have the option of specialty restaurants at an additional cost or the
lavish upper deck buffet.
As with all our cruises, we had a
great time and are already looking
forward to our next one. Irene Herman www.FamilyBeautiful.com
83
A Few Special Moments with Steve “Goldie” Goldstein
Goldie
According to the voice of the Florida Panthers, Steve “Goldie” Goldstein remarks, “Never say ‘no’ in sportscasting;
you never know what it leads to.” This motto has been very successful for Mr. Goldstein. He adamantly subscribes to
the never say no to opportunities in this field.
He grew up with his family in Brooklyn, where his Dad coached JV Football and swimming. Sports has always been an
integral part of his life. While attending Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Broadcasting, Steve actually won the
Dick Vitale “Sound Alike” contest. He now is a South Florida resident, where he lives with his wife and two sons.
Steve is the Play by Play announcer for the Florida Panthers, on FOX Sports, Florida. He has been a radio sports
announcer for the Panthers, the morning drive host and has hosted pregame/halftime/postgame shows for the
Miami Dolphins and Miami Hurricanes.
84
Family Beautiful
Currently, he is the anchor of CBS Miami and has
attended four Winter Olympic Games doing hockey
Play by Play for Team USA for Westwood One Radio.
Fortunately, Steve’s desire to relocate to this area was
perfectly timed with the Florida teams coming into
existence. He thinks hockey is well received in Florida,
especially since the Panthers have made the playoffs.
What does the present and future hold for TV Sports?
It should be very bright according to Goldie, with
more and more content available on Ipads, tablets,
cell phones...and of course record breaking signing
bonuses.
“America loves the underdog,” says Goldie, “And that
is just what televised sports is, true Reality TV.”
What does the energetic and dynamic sportscaster do
in his rare free moments? “I spend my time off camera
hanging out with my kids,“ says Steve, as he is traveling
many days during the month.
Steve “Goldie” Goldstein is a one of a kind Florida
treasure. We look forward to seeing his face and
hearing his distinctive voice for many years ahead.
Susan Short
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
85
One On One with a Tennis Prodigy
Mary Pierce
When did you first get near a racquet?
Oh that’s such a cool question. I was ten years old and
I went to a club (Seminole Lake Racquet Club) with a
friend of mine, Rachel, who played good junior tennis in
Florida. While I was watching, a lady saw me in the club
and asked if I wanted to play and I said ‘yes.’ So they told
me to go to the pro shop and get a racquet. The woman
there asked me what racquet I usually play with and I
said I’ve never played. So she gave me a racquet and
they sent me to a court full of little kids being hand-tossed
the ball.
After one shot, the coach on that (beginners’) court said,
“Who told you to come here?” and I was sent to a higher
court. After five minutes (on the intermediate court), the
coach there said, “Who told you to come here?” And I
was sent to the next court up again.
When I finished I went to find my friend and the head
pro said, “Hi, I’m Kevin, I’ve never seen you in my club
before. What’s your name, how old are you and how
long have you been playing?” I said, “I’m Mary, I’m
Rachel’s friend, I’m ten years old and I’ve been playing
for like 45 minutes.” And he said, “No no, how many
years?” And I said, “No, it’s my first day.” (Laughs.) He
said, “All right, I want you to come back tomorrow with
your parents.”
So I went off to find my friend, I’m like, “Uh oh, I think
I’m in trouble, I did something wrong, I have to come
back tomorrow with my parents.” And that was it, my
parents came back the next day and spoke to the coach,
and I began to take lessons three times a week after
school and it went from there. I think Kevin is teaching on
Treasure Island now.
You burst on the scene at 14, four years after you first
picked up a racquet and then your father wound up
making headlines for his behavior. What was that like?
I had a very tough childhood and those four years of
playing were really hard. I don’t regret it and it’s made
me who I am today and where I am today. But when I
turned 18, I said, “I’m out of here,” and I took time off
86
Family Beautiful
and I wanted to see what I wanted to do with my life.
And three months later I was doing really nothing and
so I said “tennis is what I feel like I should continue
doing.”
So that’s when you found your purpose.
No, that was when I was 25. That’s when I became a
Born Again Christian. Linda Wild, who used to play on
the tour from Chicago became friends with me. (Note:
Linda rose to #23 in ‘96.) It was funny, by 25 I had
done amazing things in tennis and reached nearly the
top, but I was still really empty and I felt like something
was missing in my life and I could never figure out what
it was. I tried to fill it with so many things, but nothing
did. I knew Linda had something special about her and
when she said she had a personal relationship with
Jesus, I knew I had to learn more. That totally changed me. I went to the French Open
three months after that, and the journalists all asked me
if I had done some ‘sports mental work,’ because they
said, ‘you’re so much more peaceful, you don’t get mad
on the court, important points you’re calm, what have
you done?’ And I said, ‘Well, the world’s in control, I’m
just going out to have fun and it’s all in his hands.’ It
just took all the pressure off. It was so evident, even the
look on my face had changed, so many things in my
life changed.
What was it like being a celebrity since you were 14?
Growing up in the spotlight was really tough, because
you’re young and you’re not used to people looking
at you and watching every thing you do, making
comments about everything. I went through a period
where it was really hard. As I grew and changed, then
my outlook toward people changed and then I loved the
interaction with people.
Do you think the pro game has changed a lot?
I don’t really think so. I feel if I was ten years younger
I’d be right up at the top today. I think the only thing
that’s changed is that tennis has just become a more
amazing business. There’s a lot more prize money,
technology – racquet strings are better,
Hawkeye’s great on court, but the game
itself and how it’s being played, I mean
the girls are getting fitter and stronger
and maybe hitting a littler harder and
faster, but in general I think it’s the
same style.
How often do you play now?
I used to play every once in awhile.
Maybe once a week. But I had a back
injury a couple months ago so I’m
rehabbing my back, (as well as) my
shoulder, and my knee and getting
myself fit so I can hit as much as I want
and whenever I want.
How long have you lived in Bradenton?
I came when I was 13 (at IMG) and
stayed for a little while and I came back
when I was 18. And so pretty much since
I was 18 years old I’ve been here and
this has always been my base when I
return to America. I love Sarasota, it’s
beautiful. RAY COLLINS
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
87
Tarpon Pointe Grill
& Tiki Bar
This place is such a perfect fit for Bradenton, it’s hard to believe it’s only
been here a few years. A waterfront restaurant and bar, with live music, a
band-stand, volley-ball court—all right there on the Manatee River just east
of downtown.
Erin and I found a table in the spacious open-air restaurant that overlooked
the bar and the stage. We holed up here for an hour or so and enjoyed a
nice meal. We first enjoyed a tasty sashimi tuna plate. I then had a salmon
plank entree and Erin had grouper. There were plenty of drinks from which
to choose. For dessert we had a healthy serving of vanilla ice cream and
chocolate sauce which went great with a hot cup of coffee. Perfect ending
to a great dinner!
The best part of the whole experience is the ability to come down a few steps
from the restaurant and mingle into the large tiki bar area and enjoy some
great music and dancing. The popular local group “SoulRcoaster” was playing and we had fun listening to them and even got out to shake a leg before
the night was through. All the while, we’re literally on the banks of the Manatee River overlooking the downtown area, Riverwalk and bridge to northern
Manatee County.
I’ve had the opportunity to be here when they’ve rolled in a larger stage and
hosted big names like Sophie B. Hawkins. That was a memorable day where
the place was packed and even the volleyball court was being fully utilized.
Fun place and long overdue for Bradenton. Sarasota would be lucky to have
something like this.
Tarpon Pointe Grill & Tiki Bar also offers Happy Hour and specials daily from
Noon-7pm, catering and private parties, 13 TV sets including NFL Ticket and
600 feet of dock space—so you can arrive on your boat.
Tarpon Point Grill & Tiki Bar is exactly what this area needed: An old
Florida bar in a rejuvenated area. RAY COLLINS
88
Family Beautiful
Virgin Vintage specializes in
couture, designer vintage clothing and accessories in beautiful
condition. We take great pride in
bringing our clients only the best
vintage we can find. For those who
don’t mind standing out from the
crowd, our collection of vintage
clothing for both men and women
is extensive, with items from
the glamorous 1920’s through
the 1980’s.
Virgin Vintage founder Emily
Owen is a Sarasota native who
has been buying and selling
vintage clothing for over 5 years.
Her extensive fashion knowledge
and eye for spotting great style
has thrust her into the position
of personal stylist and shopper.
When you buy a piece form Virgin
Vintage you are receiving more
than just a garment. You have
purchased a garment which was curated and tailored for
the unique and beautiful individual
that YOU are!
To visit the private collection in
person or inquire about styling
and personal shopping services,
email Emily@VirginVintage.net
Stylist: Emily Owen
Dress:: 1950s Ceil Chapman,
Virgin Vintage
Hair and Makeup: Erika Mudafort Model:: Alex Bouchard
Photography: Emarie & Petr
Marcan of InstudioEphoto.com
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
89
A Legacy of Hope
A LIFE of
MEANINGFUL and
CHALLENGING WORK
Mandy McGlothlin is a domestic
violence advocate who travels around
the United States educating attorneys,
judges, investigators and victims of
domestic violence. McGlothlin has
covered and reported on many highprofile cases for many news agencies.
McGlothlin also focuses on national
education with regard to domestic
violence and how that can lead to extreme domestic violence. Besides her
journalism work McGlothlin spends
her free time with victims of domestic violence, and also volunteers in
shelters to prepare victims facing court
proceedings and the possibility of testifying. Families of abuse victims are
McGlothlin’s main priority since there
are so few people that understand the
epidemic involving extreme domestic
violence.
McGlothlin attempts to gain understanding of the thoughts within an abuser’s mind. In her work she has spent countless hours with perpetrators to educate herself to aide in breaking the cycle of violence across the country. This work
allows McGlothlin to make a difference in our communities.
McGlothlin recently interviewed Tanya Brown and Denise Brown, Nicole Brown Simpson’s sisters. It has been twenty
years since was O.J. Simpson was charged and acquitted of the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald
Goldman. Tanya Brown has recently released her book, “Finding Peace Amid the Chaos.”
In a recent interview Denise Brown was kind enough to answer some questions to help others understand the pain
that her family has suffered.
MM -Many of us only know Nicole Brown Simpson that we read about or watched during the trial. What do you
want to clarify about that night Nicole was murdered?
DB-You know so many people have made so much money from my sister Nicole’s death or Nicole’s life. Everybody
pretended to know her. After my family attended Nicole’s daughters dance recital we all went to dinner at Mezzaluna
90
Family Beautiful
restaurant at Half Moon
Bay, California. Nicole
said she wanted to start
spending more time with
her family, wanted to
go camping and take
her kids. I took everyone
camping after Nicole’s
tragic death.
MM-Why do you think
so many people hurt the
people they love?
DB -Domestic violence is
a slow cycle. Perpetrators
do not love their victims.
People do not hurt people
they love. There are so many misconceptions about domestic violence and no one stereotype.
Both Denise Brown and Tanya Brown travel all over the
country speaking to others and educating them about
domestic violence. At one of Tanya’s speaking events
and it really was inspiring to hear everything she has
overcome after losing so many people she loved. In her
speech Brown talked about her distress and her sitting
in a bed at a mental hospital that had a million
dollar view that people would love to see in California.
Brown related that she just couldn’t find the beauty in it.
Thankfully those days are far gone for Tanya.
Denise Brown has worked to help pass a variety of
legislative solutions for domestic violence. One of her
most important projects was to lobby on behalf of the
Violence Against Women Act. Senator Arlen Spector of
Pennsylvania contacted Brown and asked for her assistance on a portion of the bill that was being stalled in
committee in the U.S. Senate. With a potential slashing
of its federal allocation to domestic violence services,
Denise Brown testified to the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee for increased funding for the Violence
Against Women Act. After her testimony, that portion
of the bill’s funding was increased to thirty-two million
dollars. Brown is president of Elite Speakers.
Louis Brown Jr., father of Nicole Brown has helped
to get many changes made and raised awareness about
the effects of domestic violence.
It is rare to meet people like the Browns and receive
the knowledge they have passed on. McGlothlin will
continue to dedicate her life to this worthy cause and
believes that there is no greater legacy that she could
leave for the world. Mandy McGlothlin
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
91
Beneath the Surface
Mark Bettis
A Life of Artistic Adventure
Mark Bettis has been on an artistic quest since his childhood in Sarasota. Coming from a family of avid musicians, self
expression and creativity were encouraged. He learned to play several instruments and began painting when he was
a child. Since then Bettis has explored many artistic avenues in his search for artistic expertise. He attended Ringling
School of Art & Design in the late 80s in computer design but chose to leave when an adventurous opportunity came up
designing graphics for a national video game competition in Chicago. He journeyed back and forth from Chicago to
Sarasota several times stretching his creative capabilities in the capacity of art director for prestigious ad agencies in the
Windy City, at the Asolo Center for the Performing Arts, and for the Sarasota Film Festival.
Mark enjoys a love for interior design and landscaping as well. He is famous among his friends and real estate associates for moving into 20s retro bungalows, or run-down, mid-century modern ranch homes, transforming them into
visions of color and form and quickly selling them to fund the purchase of a new one. He loves properties “west of the
Trail” or Sarasota School of Architecture homes and has left his mark (no pun intended) on at least a dozen properties
in the “Flower” streets and McClellan Park. The redesign of a 1920s bungalow was featured in Style magazine back
92
Family Beautiful
New horizons beckoned and Mark left the sunny
west coast of Florida for the mountains of Asheville, North Carolina. After several years of painting in his spare time while designing for another
national festival, this past year Mark took the
creative leap that strikes fear into many an artist’s
heart – he opened his own art studio and gallery
in the historic Cotton Mill Studio in the River Arts
District and paints daily. He creates large textural
paintings that tend toward abstract landscapes,
a definite break from the structured commercial
design field. Some titles reflect this interpretation
of the Asheville environment: “The Ridge,” “A View
From the Hill.” Others allude to more emotional
states: “Chaotic Happiness,” “Serenity.”
“My paintings are a synthesis of color, line, texture
and form. I’m intrigued and influenced by the
elements of my surroundings. I apply multiple
layers of oil paint, cold wax medium, marble dust and other elements then cut, scratch and smooth with great energy
to let the painting evolve into an abstract interpretation of these elements.”
Radiance
in 2004. He sold that one before the paint was
barely dry much to the dismay of his friends who
loved the wrap-around porch and tiki bar party
space. He moved into one of the most
unique homes in Sarasota around 2007 and
again performed his creative magic on a round,
cylindrical house that was built in 1960 for Hilton
Leech and designed by architect Jack West, from
the Sarasota School of Architecture. This property
was also featured in Style Magazine for its unique
design and the lovely asian-influenced landscaping he installed.
These multiple layers draw the eye in, challenging the viewer to want to see what is in the layers and to touch the
surface. Cold wax is a material about the consistency of Crisco, to which Mark adds oil paint. Building up layers takes
time, sometimes weeks, as he waits for them to dry and then cuts into the thick surface with paint thinners, or patternbased materials such as bubble wrap or drywall tape. Applied to a wood panel, the deep texture invites adventure.
“I can scrape as much as I want. I can be more bold.”
His recent work, “Radiance,” was auctioned off as the signature piece for WNCAP, Western North Carolina Aids Project,
this past Fall. Mark reflected that “I wanted viewers to feel illuminated and comforted by the emotions of tranquility and
peace that inspired me in creating
this painting.”
Bettis keeps busy painting in his
spacious studio with commission
work, beginning and advanced
classes and has been accepted
at several galleries around the
country. His creativity has been
expressed in numerous ways
through the years but he intends
to devote all his energy to this new
artistic adventure. Vicki Rollo
www.markbettisart.com
www.facebook.com/markbettisart
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
93
International Prestige at Top Marques, Monaco
Flight Source International
Flight Source International has
been traveling the world and in
grand style at the Latin Grammy’s
and soon to be at the 2015 Top
Marques in Monaco.
Proudly, Flight Source is a Gold
Sponsor of the illustrious Top
Marques in Monaco. The 12th
edition will be held April 16 -19,
2015 at the Grimaldi Forum, under the Patronage of H.S.H. Prince
Albert II of Monaco. Being in the
top bracket of sponsorship allows
Flight Source to present their display at a prime location. In 2013,
the international company, also
participated as a Gold Sponsor at
the Top Marques.
The four day event brings high net
buyers to the super elite car manufactures and luxury, dynamic and
prestigious vehicles to the client. It
features a test drive and to feel the
force of the Monaco Grand Prix
Circuit. This provides the ultimate –
See It – Drive It – Buy It!
Also accompanying Eric & Maria
Eckardt, owners of Flight Source,
are some well known VIP’s. Rich
Patterson, CEO of Trion Super
Cars, is known for the powerful
“Nemesis.” The “Nemesis” is beyond a super car with a twin turbo
charged V8 engine and has 2000
hp. Going 0 to 60 in 2.8 seconds,
this powerful specimen can be
viewed at Top Marques.
To further the list of VIPs is Ken Rose. Ken is the producer of the Latin Grammy’s among other productions and a great
friend to the Eckardt’s. Ken is well acquainted with and has extended an invitation to Ralph Johnson, of Earth, Wind
and Fire. Ralph will be signing autographs, shaking hands with fans and kissing babies while enjoying the wealth of
automobiles to maintain his enthusiasm of cars. ‘Ravi” aka Raviator, of Hansen fame, an aviation enthusiast, is a very
94
Family Beautiful
probable attendee. The Raviator is a motivational speaker
weaving the greatness aviators achieve methodically and
rock stars accomplish creatively.
The 15th annual Latin Grammy’s in Las Vegas applauded
Flight Source and their new partners Prestige USA Auto
group as sponsors. The November event graced the outstanding achievements in the music industry, especially for
works recorded in either Spanish or Portuguese.
The Eckardt’s recently had an opportunity to meet and
dine with Freddie Ravel. Freddie was a keyboard player for
Santana and played with many others. In 2002, Mr. Ravel
began his award winning “Tune Up to Success” – keynote
concerts that apply the principles of music to life. As a five
year old, Freddie was captivated by music. This fascination flourished a span of three decades encompassing six
continents.
Another acquaintance of Maria and Eric is K.C. Porter. Mr.
Porter is a producer for artists such as Ricky Martin, Selena
and many others. Besides a record producer, he is an
accomplished songwriter, musician and singer, stretching
over three decades. Oneness – a non profit organization
promoting the “oneness” of humanity through music, arts
and education, was co-founded by K.C.
Ascend to new spheres!! Susan Short Donna Fishburn
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
95
Tin Fish
Restaurants
There are 12 locations nationwide, with our very own here
in Sarasota Commons. It all began in 1998 when Founder
Joseph Melluso known as “the Cod Father” put together a
brilliant menu of very affordable seafood to be served in a casual atmosphere. At the age of 11 he began working in
the fish markets, became inspired to study the culinary arts and then went on to receive formal training under two world
renowned Chefs –Giulliano Bugialli and Libby Hillman. Tin Fish evolved out of an old San Diego tinsmithing building
where 150 years ago fish was sold out in front.
I sat down with Peter Gay, the Director of Corporate Training and Development. Pete led me thru some of the delightful
dishes which included wild caught white fish, grilled Mahi and a side of Patti Burglund’s famous Jalapeno Corn Bread.
A “secret recipe” skillet baked and served in the skillet with home-made honey butter. This dish was conceived when Tin
Fish ran a contest for the best cornbread and Patti’s recipe won.
The concept is a great neighborhood restaurant, a place you can bring the whole family. Offering an extensive mouth
watering menu with something to please every palate. Their goal is to provide healthy meals in a comfortable eating establishment. If you are a fish fan this is the place to be; with creatively made dishes such as the award winning Salmon on
Slaw. These tasty treats are made with home made breading, sauces and a specially made signature hot sauce.
The Fish Taco, created in the late 90s in San Diego is a specialty. Tin Fish Sarasota Commons offers 11 taco choices
including lobster, ahi tuna, gator & salmon. Six chowders and soups, packed with healthy choices to please every palate,
from the catfish, gator & frog leg combo to burgers and fries. Pete was 100% right about Tin Fish Desserts having the WOW FACTOR. I got lost in the Bermuda Triangle (warm
brownies, ice cream, homemade whipped cream and sauces) and was seduced by the Sea Salt Caramel Cheese Cake.
If you like to take your dog with you when you are out and about, Tin Fish Sarasota Commons offers a YAPPY HOUR on
Mondays from 4-7 pm with an extended “Happy Hour” for the owners and Milk Bones for the pups. Carol Prokap
935 N. Beneva Rd, Sarasota, Fl, 34232 • tinfishsarasota.com
96
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
97
The 2014 Cadillac XTS
A Dream Drive
Coast Cadillac dropped the metallic black XTS off on a cool fall day, and I immediately fell in love. Maybe it was the
low slung exterior, maybe the neon running lights, but it was the complete driving experience that sent me over the top.
Chic, urbane and incredibly smooth; the cockpit is more like a luxury suite in a high end hotel.
The body is chiseled, the headlights are brilliant, and the grills are a captivating design, the exterior of the XTS is the
embodiment of elegance and style. It is modeled with meticulous detail to attract the connoisseurs who can and do
appreciate the finest in style.
The XTS features the three C’s, convenience, connectivity and control. The principles behind the technology present in
the XTS are magnificent. The Bose speakers create a concert like experience, the Cadillac CUE system that plugs you in
to everything you need and more. I appreciated the seat buzzing when I inadvertently did not use my turn signal when
changing lanes! Need to check the weather? A quick touch of the screen provides a detailed 5 day forecast. Getting a
bit too close to another car? The XTS will buzz your seat to wake you up before an unfortunate incident occurs.
The sound system by Bose is customized for the unique environment of the XTS. The available 14 speaker studio
surround system washes over you in sonic waves. There are an additional 2 personal speakers on the top of each
front seat as well as Audio pilot noise compensation technology, the sound system is designed to immerse you in
everything it has to offer.
The XTS comes with a 3.6 liter engine with 305 horsepower front wheel drive and a six speed automatic transmission.
My XTS was the superb V Sport model with 410 horsepower, and twin turbo charged 3.6 liter V6 engine. The steering
wheel is conveniently heated, for our rare chilly days and the ventilated front seats have a 22 adjustment options, with
massage. There is also forward collision alert, side blind zone alert and lane keep assist.
It is a smooth
operator, fitted with
advanced suspension technology,
Brembo front brakes
designed to deliver
a very powerful, yet
super smooth ride.
It is the Cadillac of
the future. The idea
is steeped in the
history of this ultraluxury brand, but the
future is here to stay
within the XTS model.
Urban, sophisticated,
technologically
advanced; it is the
Cadillac that defines
the idea that you
have truly arrived.
Susan Short
98
Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
99
100
Family Beautiful