1. art and entertainment
2. theatre

Spring 2015
Malibu Missives - Another Ocean’s View
Polo - Sport of Kings with Nick Johnson
Sarasota’s Rock Star - Daniel Landers
Extreme Luxury Automobiles
Quarterly
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Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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From the desk of
Susan Short,
Publisher
A Missive from Sarasota and the Gulf Coast. What an amazing
year it has been so far! Family Beautiful is thrilled to announce
the newest section, Malibu Missives; Another Ocean’s View. We
are not talking about the Atlantic, we are referring to the Pacific.
Spearheaded by Jeff Fishman who happens to be a longtime
true “Hollywood” insider, Malibu Missives is an incredible view,
literally, of life and style from the exceptional perspective of Malibu. Referred to as the “BU” by the erudite locals,
Malibu is the converse of Sarasota, yet similar in many ways. Upscale, artsy, culturally relevant and just on the pulse
of all the action of LA. It is, however, removed from the frenetic pace, therefore allowing those in the entertainment
business to let their hair down so to speak, but in perfect BU style.
Real stories of real people who are vigorously imbedded in the film and entertainment industry from their viewpoint;
that is the platform that Family Beautiful will present. Whether it is a TMZ interview from one of their main producer’s
or the story of the “real life” Ray Donovan, Malibu Missives will certainly keep you on the edge of your seat and then
some! Make sure to look on FamilyBeautiful.com as new stories as well as cutting edge reviews are posted from
Malibu quite often.
In this amazing issue is the story of Daniel Landers and the iconic family of the Landers, including his gorgeous
“Dallas” mother, none other than Audrey Landers and her stunning mother, Ruth Landers. This brilliant family is firmly
rooted in Sarasota, yet has an impact on the entertainment industry worldwide. Daniel’s incredible voice and capacity
to charm and woo audiences is pure magnificence.
No issue of Family Beautiful is complete without a wide smattering of astonishing automobiles. We were fortunate
enough to drive the Lamborghini Gallardo convertible from AutoXotic..and how sweet was that? Words can’t really
describe the feeling of power and luxury in that vehicle. We also have some test drives of the new and spectacular
Volvo XC60 Ocean Racing Series, probably one of the safest and most stylish SUV’s on the road currently. The Lincoln
MKC, was a sportsman’s paradise and super posh, yet perfect for the outdoor enthusiast.
Sarasota and Polo are uniquely synonymous with the good life in the area. Family Beautiful was fortunate enough
to speak with one of Polo’s rising stars, Nick Johnson. Hailing from England, Nick is the epitome of the Polo player,
educated, kind, extremely skilled and full of enthusiasm for the Sport of Kings. Nick is on his way to the top of his
sport and profession.
Family Beautiful is a proud sponsor of the Sarasota Film Festival 2015. What will you see? An amazing array of international films, something for everyone’s taste. The events surrounding the festival should be the spectacle to take in
and surely not to be missed.
The winter chill has finally given way to the perfection of spring and early summer in our area. It is truly a blessing
and a gift to live and work in this magical place we call home! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and
Pinterest to see what events we attend and keep reading and following Family Beautiful and our ever growing brand
of La Dolce Vita!
Susan Short
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Family Beautiful
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On the Cover
90
Malibu Missives
Malibu Missives; Another Ocean’s View and Hollywood
perspective, an insider’s look into what makes the
entertainment industry tick, the process as well as the
journey.
84
Nick Johnson
Polo star, the epitome of an erudite and sophisticated
young man who lives surrounded by the extraordinary
trappings of the Polo life. We take a peek into how
much work is truly involved.
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Contents
Kids
8
10
12
14
Watoto Children’s Choir
Teeja’s Song
Elegant Learning Experience
Chefs of Tomorrow
16-25
Location, Location
The Better Half
86 Daniel Landers
Music royalty from a storied family deeply rooted in
entertainment. We take a few minutes to chat with
Daniel and see his true and beloved personality.
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Luxury Sportscars
No issue is complete without a few fantastic test drives
of supercars, from sporty luxury to top of the line,
Family Beautiful will drive them all!
26 Ballet & Iain Webb
27 Ben Vereen
27 Fuzion Dance
28 Naz Tliachev, Film Producer
30 Venice Theatre Schedule
32 Top Marques
34 UTC – Kim Dominguez
35Opera
36 Kim Betts
37 The Devyn
39-44
Golf Heaven
Travel
58
59
60
62
Siesta Key Staycation
Lake Manatee State Park
House of Blues
Rock & Roll Resort
Local Film Scene
64 Sarasota Film Festival
71 Fifty Shades of Grey Premiere
Men’s Fashion
72-79 Weddings
Ahhhh Spa
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80 Age-Defying Cream
82 So Much at Soma
Lifestyle
88 Best Shape of Your Life
Malibu Missives
90 Gentlemanly Arts
91 Tramps Leggings
92 Sunset Confidential
94 TMZ’s Evan Rosenblum
96 Hollywood Fixers
98 Cadillac – Redesign of Elegance
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www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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Publisher and Executive Editor
Susan Short
Creative Director
Vicki Rollo
Consulting Advisor
Irine Tsinober
Editorial Assistant
Donna Fishburn
Photo Contributors
Guy Aseltine, BOSK Photography,
Ray Collins, Donna Fishburn, Emarie &
Petr Marcan, Leo Mayrinck, Richard Porter,
Cliff Roles, Sand Petal Weddings,
David Short, Tom Shane
Article Contributors
Jennifer Ahern-Koch, Tim Calandra,
Ray Collins, Jacob Cornell, Sheryl Davis,
Donna Fishburn, Jeff Fishman,
Irene Herman, Sheri Nadelman,
Steven Shapiro
Cover Photo & Digital Imagery:
EMarie Marcan and Petr Marcan of
InStudio E Photography
Advertising Inquiries
Contact our corporate office to request a media
kit by calling (941) 961-4280 or e-mail Susan at
[email protected]
Features
Get your
blood pressure checked
for FREE at any of the
following locations
3155 University Pkwy Sarasota
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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 [email protected]
© 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
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Rescue Raise Rebuild
WATOTO
Childrens
Choir
The Watoto Children’s Choir graced Florida recently with their unique storytelling through music and dance, the first
stop in their four month tour of the southeast. The free performances open to the public were entitled Beautiful Africa: A
New Generation.
Watoto is a holistic child care solution to serve the dire needs of Africa and her people. The children act as ambassadors to raise awareness. The choir’s children have been orphaned by suffering the loss of one or both parents. With
the help of the Watato’s Children’s Villages, they receive the care and nurture every child needs to grow up as productive citizens of their country.
“Through the choir’s Concert of Hope, we share a message of transformation by telling the story of Africa’s
rescued orphans and women. We hope to reach out to audiences with the message of Christ’s healing power,” says
Watoto Founder, Gary Skinner.
Since 1994, the globally cheered Watoto Chlldren’s Choir has traveled internationally, showcasing its flare for
original African music and dance. Also, included with the singing is storytelling to raise awareness about the plight of
the orphaned and vulnerable children of Africa. These universal, enthusiastic, and talented children get to see a world
of hope in their travels.
Watoto is positioned to RESCUE an individual, RAISE each one as a leader in their chosen sphere of life so that they
in turn will REBUILD their nations. Donna Fishburn
www.watoto.com/the-choir
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Family Beautiful
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“There’s a little girl I know whose will is so strong.”
Teeja’s Song
“There’s a little girl I know whose will is so strong” This is the first line of “Teeja’s Song.” I composed it for an adorable
five year old little girl, who at the time, was locked in a bitter battle with neuroblasotoma, a rare form of cancer that
affects children.
“Glamma” Kay “GiGi” Siebold and I were connected through the theater here in Sarasota, Florida. It was through
social media that I learned of her granddaughter’s horrific illness. I was touched so deeply that I felt compelled to do
something more than a generic “prayers here” Facebook post. Being a singer/songwriter, it was a “no brainer” for
me to help in the most natural way I knew how and that was to write. So I sat down to write a song with the intention
of selling it as a download with
proceeds going to the family.
“Teeja’s Song” became a labor
of love.
I visited Teeja in the hospital on
her fifth birthday. It coincided
with one of her chemo sessions.
I was welcomed by Kay and
Teeja’s mother, Tana, who was
very savvy in her knowledge of
medicine. Tana was quite candid when she talked about the
massive expenses being incurred
as the family traveled back and
forth from Sarasota to St. Pete,
New York and Michigan for
treatment. As long as there was a
glimmer of hope, nothing would
stop this woman from going to
war with this dreadful disease. I
was taken by the sheer determination and a no-holds-barred,
bring-it-on attitude of this petite,
warrior mom. This little girl was
surrounded by the love and
strength of a family – the likes of
which could only be described
as inspiring. With guitar in
hand, singing “Teeja’s Song,”
we celebrated the birthday girl
in the hallway at All Children’s
Hospital.
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Family Beautiful
My goal was to have the song produced and arranged
by an outside source as soon as possible. Production was
delayed much longer than anticipated and Teeja’s health
was rapidly declining. These unforeseen circumstances
dictated the decision to produce the song myself along
with my husband Art, an experienced sound engineer.
With the convenience of having our own home recording studio, we were able to move forward. I called upon
some musician friends who were eager to help. Generous
with their time and talent were Joe Hornberger on drums,
James Klein on bass, Stephen Fancher on keyboards, Teri
Duncan and Lauren Mitchell on vocals. While wrapping
up the final touches on the tune, we got the sad news that
Teeja had passed away.
Teeja and her family had a profound impact on me.
I am not necessarily a religious person, but I am spiritual.
I will never understand how the universe works. No
parent should ever have to travel this path. I will just
have to accept that sometimes maybe it is not for us to
understand.
GEMZ
Fine Jewelry
Walking into Gemz Fine Jewelry with perhaps a little
uncertainty, you are greeted with a warm smile and
friendly hello.
A conversation with the owner, Sheryl Davis, begins and
you realize that she has answers to all your questions and
makes you feel as if you’ve been friends for a long time.
She has over 35 years’ experience and explains the process of Jewelry and Watch Repair (all Jewelry Repair
is done on the premise), Custom Design, Appraisals,
Remounts, Bridal or Stone Setting, just to name a few.
If you are shopping for something exquisite and unique
while being budget friendly, Gemz is the place to go.
I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Tana & Dennis
Johnson and Glamma Kay “Gigi” and “Baba” Wayne
Siebold, for allowing me into their lives and sharing their
beautiful Teeja with me.
As you leave, you realize that you now have a smile on
your face knowing that your needs and concerns have all
been satisfied and that your jewelry is in safe hands of
your neighborhood Jewelry Store. Visit Gemz Fine Jewelry
today. SHERYL DAVIS
As she so loved to do and as the last line of “Teeja’s
Song” says, we will “Keep on Dancing.” Sheri Nadelman
[email protected]
“Teeja’s Song” is available through Nimbitmusic.com/
SheriSings as well as throughthe website www.Sheri.co
All proceeds will go directly to the Johnson-Siebold family
with Nimbitmusic.com generously waiving their customary
transaction fee.
My thanks to Family Beautiful Magazine for bringing
Teeja’s story to light.
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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E legant Learning E xperience
Prom is always the highlight of the school year, but
this year for some local students the Prom Week Event
proved to have a special enthusiastic edge. Thanks to the
devoted efforts of educators in Sarasota and Bradenton,
students were selected to participate in a special event
with Sally Schule, Director of Saks Fifth Avenue and Susan
Short, Publisher and Executive Editor of Family Beautiful
Magazine.
This unique collaboration gave the students a
opportunity to learn more about how to develop and
create events such as Prom, currently, and in the future
other school events and charity functions.
The students met with Sally and Susan and together
they planned out the Prom Week Event. Setting the date
for the “big” photo shoot was imperative. Upon picking
out the attire provided by Saks Fifth Ave. and getting fitted
March 9th came quickly. Smile, say cheese. The camera
clicking – behind the scenes as well as living mannequins
in the store window – the photographs were taken.
A special link was sent to all involved to showcase
themselves on their social media sites. BAM! Another
exciting slice of cake was added. After catching wind
of the event, The Suncoast View of ABC7 promoted the
Event. Some of the students modeled the gowns while
Sally and Susan described the designs of the dresses. The
students appeared in the attire worn in the photo shoot.
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Family Beautiful
All this excitement lead up to the Main Event. On
March 22nd the students, under the directions of Sally
and Susan, looking glorious in their attire, performed
informal modeling in and out of the Saks window. Also,
they were able to have a meet and greet with Miss Teen
Sarasota Delegates. The students were treated to refreshments and prizes to enhance their school Prom Night.
A bonus for the UTC customers and students were
performances by the pupils of Ovation Studio. This was
followed by a special musical appearance by a very
special lady – “soulRcoaster’s” female vocalist, Sheri
Nadelman. Extraordinary entertainment for all!!!
A special thanks to: Onli Beverages Bar, Bobbi Brown
– Makeup Artists, Blue
Door Salon & Spa– hair
styling, Teen Vogue –
National Sponsor, Tom
Shane – photographer,
Sheri Nadelman, Michele
Teyke – Ovations Studio,
Sally Schule – Saks Fifth
Ave., Susan Short – Family
Beautiful Magazine and
all involved to make Prom
2015 more memorable.
Donna Fishburn
Hello Gorgeous Photobooth
wants to go with you to Prom!
Hello Gorgeous is thrilled to partner with Saks Fifth Avenue and Family Beautiful Magazine to offer this
exclusive promotion. We want to go to prom with you, literally!
We will bring our trendy, gorgeous photobooth to your PROM for free... All you have to do is provide a
short video ( no longer than 5 minutes) on why your school should be chosen;
tell us why your school deserves our photobooth at your prom.
We are looking for two key components in the video: which school has the best team spirit and how your
school serves our community. All video submissions should be received no later than April 19, 2015.
Sally Schule from Saks Fifth Avenue and Susan Short from Family Beautiful
will choose the winner on April 20, 2015.
All video submissions can be sent to amyhellogorgeousphotobooth.com or
upload to our Hello Gorgeous Facebook page.
Hello Gorgeous Photobooth is the social booth with social responsibility; we love to provide services to
our community and believe in paying it forward. What will you do when you graduate? We hope you will be
inspired and continue to pay it forward. We want to capture your special moments at PROM for your once
in a lifetime night; we will provide unlimited prints, social media and “Prom Props” and our open-air booth,
a value over $1500.00 to the winning school.
A Hello Gorgeous team member will notify the school that captures our judge’s eye, on Monday, April 20th.
Please check your schools policy prior to submitting a video to ensure
that you are allowed to have a photobooth at your prom.
We are so excited and look forward to going to PROM with you.
Please contact Amy @ 941-773-5017 for any questions!
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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Chef Paul Mattison has been
working with Sarasota County
since 2009, establishing a children’s summer chef camp. The
first session in 2009 offered a
couple of sessions with the
basic cooking techniques
theme. These sold out quickly
and the children who attended
the first session wanted to learn
more. With that in mind, the
following year, Chef Paul decided to build on the basic
cooking techniques theme and
added more advanced classes
including Advanced Pastry
Camp, Advanced International
Camp and more. “On the first day, we start
out emphasizing safety in
the kitchen, which is so important, but they grasp this really quickly and then we can move on to having fun in the kitchen,
learning about foods and flavors, the actual creation part of the camp is what they really love,” says Chef Mattison. “Not
only that, but we also teach them about how a restaurant really works including properly setting a table and serving.” At
the end of the week, each camper gets to invite two guests for our graduation ceremony and lunch. The lunch is prepared,
served, and cleared – a real restaurant situation from A to Z – by the campers. They get the opportunity to see, to participate, and to interact with restaurant professionals – it is really a hands-on, valuable, fun, and creative learning experience.
We have students who have been coming back summer after summer and are now moving onto college,” says Chef Mattison. This summer Mattison’s hosts four different Chef Camp sessions through Sarasota County Parks and Recreation at
Mattison’s Forty-One, 7275 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 34231. For info, call 941.861.9870.
Chefs of Tomorrow
GardenMattison’s and Phillippi Shores Since May 2012, Chef Paul Mattison leads the effort to create a sustainable garden at Phillippi Shores Elementary School
which lead to students learning, hands-on, about gardening, composting, nutrition, meal planning, and cooking. Chef Paul
first participated in the “Chefs Move to Schools” fundraising initiative, and has since rallied a group of parents, teachers,
students, community businesses, and Mattison’s staff to volunteer in the crafting of the boxes, the irrigation, the planning,
and the filling of the raised garden boxes. The Elementary School Vegetable Garden and Educational Program came to
fruition in November 2013 and consists of over 40 hand-made garden boxes. Chef Paul provided the initial funding for
the garden project with donations and other forms of sponsorship from the local community. “Chefs Move to Schools” is
a program aimed at getting school children engaged in learning to love healthy eating by working with local chefs and
learning more about food, nutrition, the kitchen, and culinary arts. This program has also helped professional Chefs to
learn more about the regulations and guidelines of school nutrition programs.
Chef Paul Mattison, executive chef and proprietor of Mattison’s in Sarasota, Florida, participated in multiple “Chefs Move
to Schools” fundraising events and galas at Phillippi Shores Elementary School in Sarasota and which include a private
tour of the School’s vegetable garden by Chef Mattison. The dinners pair local chefs with groups of children from different
Sarasota County schools. Each group spends time with a local chef, creating recipes for the gala and learning the ins and
outs of the kitchen, culminating in the group’s preparation of menu items at the gala dinner. JENNIFER Ahern-KOCH
• Mattison’s Forty-One, 7275 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 tel 941.921.3400
• Phillippi Shores School Cafeteria, 4747 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34231
• Sarasota County School System’s Nutritional Programs, contact Adriel Zaniser 941.486.2199 ext 68401
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Family Beautiful
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Location
Location
Location
Photo by Richard Porter
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Family Beautiful
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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: [email protected] • Web: www.sarabay.com
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Family Beautiful
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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
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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
[email protected]
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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Family Beautiful
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Always a Beautiful Performance at the Sarasota Ballet
After spending a wonderful afternoon chatting with Artistic Director Iain Webb of the Sarasota Ballet, I wondered,
how we could not consider attending all of the performances they have to offer? Ballet is often considered a rarefied
art, appreciated by those who have either had some experience with dance and ballet themselves, or have been exposed to this art form at a very young age. Sadly, audiences in general do not embrace ballet as theater as strongly
as they have over the last 25-30 years, however, Ballet is alive and very well in our cultural mecca, Sarasota.
I caught up with Iain Webb just prior to the performance of the world renowned Harlem Dance Theater. A snowstorm had occurred just before the performers were about to head to our neck of the woods. Fortunately, everyone
arrived safely to magnificently perform in front of a packed house each night. They were so excited to be in Sarasota,
one of the only out-of-state productions this year. The Dance Theater of
Harlem had been closed for several years and has just re-opened with a
fresh take on what made them so famous. Their energy is amazing and
that is one of the many things that makes this company so extraordinary.
They had never performed in Sarasota, so this was a premiere of sorts.
The Sarasota Ballet is one of the most well received companies in
the world. They have performed at the esteemed Kennedy Center as well
as traveled abroad. Entering its 24th season, Iain Webb has been the
director for 8 years. His expert abilities and enthusiasm as well as proficiency in all aspects of ballet has brought the company national and
international acclaim. The London Financial Times has said, “Webb and
his wife, Margaret Barbieri, have given this small American company the
world’s most extensive Ashton repertoire.”
The Sarasota Ballet has many incredible programs, including one
for “at risk” kids and teens. This is the only school that is affiliated with
a professional ballet company on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Webb credit’s
the rise to acclaim with their stress on focus, coaching and lessons to
fuel the company.
The performances have incredible sets and costumes. Many times
sets are brought on loan from other cities, even as far away as London.
Balanchine, Aston and Nureyev opened late February at the Van Wezel
with two company premieres and live music by the Sarasota Orchestra.
The program included an Ashton premiere of Jazz Calendar as well as
Balanchine’s famous Apollo.
I was privileged to chat with both dancers who performed Apollo.
They remarked that it was an intense performance, requiring them both
to be on stage for over 30 minutes at a time!
Also in the performance was Nureyev’s Raymundo Act III. This piece is considered by some to be one of the most
elegant, refined and challenging ballets in Russian tradition. With sets by Barry Kay and an opulent score by Alexander
Glazunov, Nureyev presented the full Act III at Covent Garden in 1969 with the Royal Ballet Touring Company.
Webb went on to say, “Sarasota has opened their hearts to the Ballet,” he added, “We hope to provide some of the
most varied and interesting performances, maybe even one day the Rolling Stones!” There truly is something for everyone – beautiful dancers’ beauty on stage and choreography.
Iain Webb, the Director of the Sarasota Ballet, danced eight years with The Royal Ballet of London, and graced
them with three guest encore performances. Also he spent several years with Matthew Bourne on London’s West End
and Broadway in New York City.
Capping off the month of March was Graziano and Taylor, a world premiere by Ricardo Graziano, resident choreographer. This was his fifth ballet created for the company. It was a revival of Taylor’s, Company B, which the Sarasota
Ballet premiered in November of 2012. It revolves around the portrayal of exuberant hope and poignant loss in the
early 40’s as the country was being drawn into World War II.
The world is truly on the stage at the Sarasota Ballet. What an honor and gift to have this level of excellence in our
lovely and pristine area we call home. Susan Short
www.sarasotaballet.org
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Family Beautiful
Ben Vereen
Venice
Theatre
Scores
Broadway star, Ben Vereen, made a surprise appearance on January 22, 2015 at the Venice Theatre. The
audience was gathered to hear the announcement of
the 2015-16 season. Artistic Director, Murray Chase,
saved the best for last. Vereen would be directing a
production of the rock musical Hair in November. He
was one of the original cast members of the show back
in the sixties. In his remarks, the Tony Award winning
actor stated that “love is alive and well and living
in Venice,” and that his plan was to present a “time
capsule” to let us all feel that love. He also noted that
one of the reasons he agreed to undertake this project
was because there is a love in Venice for the arts and a
commitment to standing behind the arts that he wanted
to be part of. Hair broke new ground when it first was
presented in 1968 and it will certainly create a new
level of excitement in Venice in 2015. Irene Herman
Fuzion Dance – Bodies Moving in Space
Energy and excitement is what radiated from my conversation with Leymis Bolanos Wilmott, as she described Fuzion
Dance and Fuzion Dance Artists.
In 2000, Rachael Inman and Leymis began working together in a graduate program at Florida State University.
They shared a lot in common: an Arabic heritage, a vision to collaborate, create, and celebrate through life experiences. Their baby, Fuzion Dance, first professional contemporary dance company in Sarasota was born in 2002. Soon
after, the visionaries established Fuzion Dance Artists, as a non-profit corporation.
The professional dance artists are a recipe of all shapes, ethnicity, color, athleticism and curves. They blend their
ideas, nurture and push boundaries to show how different bodies move. When attending a fabulous Fuzion Dance
performance, the audience is served a variety of art forms. Multi-generational and multi-cultural encompassing youth
through seniors. With the diversity executed, an attendee will be overwhelmed with at least one piece of pure enjoyment.
The “Fuzion Family” educational outreach enhances diverse school
performances, master classes and weekly dance classes. The company
offers a variety of physically integrated dance movements to people in
different stages of their lives and abilities. They also have an ongoing
twice weekly Dance for Parkinson class at the Parkinson Place.
Fuzion Dance Artists have been welcomed throughout the country, including John F. Kennedy Center, Alabama Ballet Center for
Dance and many more.
With the encouragement from the “blessed energized board,”
the Fuzion Dance Artists are proud to have their first full season of
performances, August 2015 through June 2016. The growth of the
company will soon be moving to ABC7 studio.
Their mission is “to bring dance to the community through
performance, education and collaboration.” Donna Fishburn
www.fuziondance.org
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15 Minutes with Acclaimed Producer Naz Tliachev
Naz Tliachev is not your ordinary Hollywood Producer. A world traveler, Renaissance man, Naz has a well-heeled
perspective on the industry, yet he is genuine. Some of his recent accomplishments include a stunning book of poetry
entitled, Golden Time.
Currently Naz has two films on the roster, one a dark comedy, “Maul Dogs.” Starring Eric Roberts and E.R. Ruiz, it
features a thematic story about a man who runs a comic book store/tattoo parlor in an inner city strip mall along with
his three friends, who are hapless and aren’t particularly caring towards their community. The landlord of the strip mall
gambles away all of his finances. The arc of the story involves the assortment of oddballs and thug types gathering
together to try to save the businesses through a bowling tournament.
They use their novice skills to organize the community of friends and neighbors to support them. Unfortunately, they do
not know how to bowl, therefore they must then enlist the help of the local weirdo/bum, Two Strikes, who happened to
be a bowling champion back in his day. The rest is history!
The other film project is “Opus of an Angel.” Starring William McNamara, who plays a suicidal doctor wandering the
streets of LA contemplating the end, he finds a blind young girl and his life is forever changed. He is torn between getting her back home safely or wallowing in his own self-pity. Directed by Ali Zamani, the film is just the right amount of
drama to keep audiences on the edge of their seats and wanting more. The girl’s wild personality (ceaseless singing,
lust for life and disregard for schedules) drives the man crazy, but jogs him out of his funk, questioning whether it was
the right decision to end it all. She opens his eyes to how privileged he is to have his sight and re-evaluate his narrow
perspective on life in general. There is a possibility that Stevie Wonder may score the film’s theme song, which would
be an incredible coup, says Naz. “We are in talks with him now.”
What is next on the horizon? “Ideally, there will be one or two more projects per year. I love working with film and acting greats, and bringing them to shoot overseas in Russia, particularly the Black Sea area, which is incredibly beautiful.
We have sold options for a film that was critically acclaimed, “White Swan” and would like to see television distribution
or possibly a sequel.” Susan Short
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Venice Theatre Announces 2015-2016 Season
Venice Theatre proudly announced its 66th season at a
party attended by more than 400 sponsors, donors, advertisers, patrons and volunteers. Minutes before the reception
was underway, the theatre’s Board of Directors approved
the docket of productions presented to them by the theatre’s
volunteer play selection committee and Artistic/Executive
Director Murray Chase.
The event included performances of songs from each of the
musicals on the upcoming schedule. The final selection was
a medley of “Aquarius” and “Let the Sunshine In” from Hair.
Stage and screen star Ben Vereen was on hand to announce
that he would be directing the musical. He was in the original Broadway productions of Hair, Jesus Christ Superstar
and Pippin for which he won the best actor Tony Award.
Venice Theatre has been designated as the second-largest
community theatre in the country by the American Association of Community Theatre. It currently produces four
series that give audiences the opportunity to see traditional
Broadway-style shows (MainStage), contemporary works
(Stage II), light musical revues (Cabaret) and family-friendly
fare (Generations). Add to this its annual Summer Stock
production, a variety of concerts and special events, classes
and outreach projects, and you will rarely find a quiet day
or night at Venice Theatre.
Season subscriptions for 2015-2016 are on sale today.
A total of six different packages are available. Prices range
from $96 for a Stage II subscription to $329 for the Golden
Ticket which includes 17 shows and discounts for summer
cabarets and the Concert and Special Events Series.
2015-2016 Season*
MainStage – Exit Laughing; Hair; Noises Off; Ragtime;
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
Stage II – The Beauty Queen of Leenane; Sweeney Todd;
Venus in Fur; Metamorphoses
Cabaret – Summer Cabaret Festival; Church Basement Ladies; The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical;
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Summer Stock – Brigadoon
Generations – I Never Saw Another Butterfly; A Christmas Carol; James and the Giant Peach
www.venicestage.com
* Venice Theatre reserves the right to change shows, dates and times.
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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
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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
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15 Minutes with Kim Dominguez
An Insight into Sarasota’s Fashion Mecca,
University Town Center
It is hard to miss the iconic structure of the stunning new
University Town Center. Sitting at the crossroads of Sarasota,
Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, this metropolis of shopping and dining is the pulse of what is really happening in the
region. Open 6 months, the mall is thriving and exceeding all
expectations.
We had a few moments to catch up with the superstar of the
mall, the lovely Kim Dominguez, Director of Marketing and
Sponsorship. She graciously escorted me into her beautiful
office suite and we began to chat about the amazing metamorphosis of the shopping center extraordinaire.
“It has been an incredible journey, to watch the UTC come to
fruition.” Said Kim during our interview, “It was an astounding
amount of work with all kinds of elements to consider and it all
came together perfectly and on schedule.”
They have had 18 additional stores open since October and
are expecting several more. High end retail is arriving daily,
such as Free People and ArHaus. Vince Camuto will open in
April. Two new dining options, The Burger and Beer Joint, a
fun, casual rock and roll atmosphere, serving excellent burgers
and craft beers, and Yo Sushi, a new concept of sushi delivery
in an exciting atmosphere, are scheduled for mid-April.
“We are partnering with Visit Sarasota as well as several
organizations within the community to promote the mall to
visitors and residents alike,” said Kim. “There is a tremendous uptick in sports tourism, with Benderson Park so close
by as well as all the local hotels and new hotel venues in development.”
When asked how she feels being at the helm of shopping heaven, being so close to the fashion and dining royalty, she
humbly responded, “I try not to think of it in those terms, it is an honor as well as a responsibility to the community to
keep our fingers on the pulse of what the consumers are doing, thinking, shopping for and impressed by.”
Most of us would consider her post a dream job, each day walking through a magnificent mall to their office; just the
stuff out of a feature film. For Kim it is all in a day’s work; she takes it in stride, a fashionable one at that.
My last question was, so what are the trends for 2015? Kim replied, “Injections of color. Color is big for 2015 in all
aspects of fashion, dresses, accessories, shoes and bags.” And we live in a color palate of vibrant sunsets, green palms
swaying in the wind, so it could not be more apropos! SUSAN SHORT
www.mallatutc.com
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OPERA
Sarasota Opera’s Winter Festival opened on February with Giacomo Puccini’s Tosca. This perennial favorite romantic
tragedy enjoyed the full grand opera treatment in a beautifully staged production. All the principals sang well and
Kara Shay Thomson’s rendition of the popular aria, “Vissi d’arte” was an audience favorite. Baritone Mark Walters was
delightfully evil as Baron Scarpia. Tenor Rafael Davila displayed a wide range as Tosca’s lover, Mario Cavaradossi.
The power of jealousy to shape one’s destiny, which is the crux of Tosca’s tragic ending, is also the central theme of the
second offering of the Festival - Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro. This time the results are much happier – a complete
change of mood. Figaro is the epitome of a complicated opera plot. It is true farce with disguises, mistaken identities
and many doorways. Mozart’s glorious melodies make it all come together, especially when it is sung and staged as
well as this production was. It was long, as are most of Mozart’s operas but worth every minute.
Each season Sarasota Opera presents a rather obscure opera to enrich and extend the opera-going experience.
This year’s selection was Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s The Golden Cockerel. It is based on a Russian fairy tale and really
deserves to be seen more often. It was just a hoot
with lyrical, almost folk-like music, outstanding
comic acting, gorgeous costumes and some great
voices. Alexandra Batsios was outstanding as the
Queen of Shemakha. There is an underlying moral
message about the dangers of power – but it is
easy to take.
The concluding opera of the season is a continuation of Sarasota Opea’s Verdi Cycle. Artistic
Director, Vincent DeRenzi will conduct the
orchestra in a production of the Paris version
of Giuseppe Verdi’s Don Carlos. Irene Hermam
Photos by Rod Millington
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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Kim Betts
and
Gamble Creek Band
Last month I had the good fortune of sitting down with Kim Betts
of Gamble Creek. Kim, a native Manatee County girl, had
plenty to share with me. Now I will be sharing it with you.
Born at Manatee Community Hospital, Kim says “Yes, I am a Floridian,” as both her parents, Barbara and Dickey are also from
Florida. Kim’s parents divorced when Kim was four years old and
she and her mom relocated to Wilmington, North Carolina. After
spending some time there, the family moved to Fort Atkinson,
Wisconsin where Kim would go on to graduate from high school.
I asked Kim at what age did she start performing and her answer
was she was born performing. She would make up characters
and sing at all the family gatherings as far back as she remembers. Kim sang in the choir at church and also was a cheerleader
at school. This put her out in front of an audience at a very early
age. It also pushed her into the direction of theater. After graduating high school Kim studied drama, dance and voice at San
Jose State University, graduating with a BA in Theater Arts as well
as a double minor in Dance and English Literature. Kim had the
opportunity to study with Broadway Actress/Dancer Janie Scott. Kim worked the theater scene on the West Coast with a roll
in South Pacific singing “Happy Talk.”
Upon graduating SJSU and her Dad’s band getting back together, Kim decided to spend some time with her Dad. She
took to the road with the Allman Brothers Band for the west coast leg of their tour. Once the band headed east Kim went
back to working some theater shows out in California. Now married to Scott Gingrich and planning a family, it was time
to put her acting aspirations on the back burner and “Go Home.” It was back to Florida to raise her children, Grant and
Nicole. Mom proudly boasts that at 15 years old Grant is quite the guitarist. Well, given the history of his gene pool, I can
only imagine.
Although taking a break from the theater scene had its rewards, the fire inside an artist never leaves so it was back to the
stage for this girl. “I was doing a play at Manatee Players (Singing in the Rain) where I played Lina Lamont. My dad, who
is a musician, came to see the show and said ‘Man, that’s alot of work. I hope you get paid alot.’ I laughed because of
course community theatre does not pay at all. My dad told me he would help me form a band and I should start singing around town for some pocket money. So I did just that. My first gig was with Louis Butler at a benefit at Ace’s Lounge
about 4 years ago.” With her Dad introducing her to some local players she decide to put a band together and Gamble
Creek was born. When asked how the name Gamble Creek was picked, the answer was simple. The Betts family is from
Myakka and Kim’s house sits on Gamble Creek.
As is with most bands forming in the area there seemed to be that ever changing cast of players. Today’s lineup is solid
and it consists of Kim Betts/ vocals, Evan Steele/vocals & rhythm guitar, Mike Brissette/drums, Jim Camastro/bass, Peter
Siracuse/vocals & lead guitar, Teagan Rivers/vocals. Greg Holt/ fiddle, Ron Fitzgerald/Steel & Keys, Grant Tyler/vocals,
rhythm & mandolin can be found on occasion gigging with Kim. When I asked Kim who her musical influences were, of
course, her mom and dad topped the list. The remainder of the list consisted of classic American Singer Songwriters, the
likes of Judy Garland, Karen Carpenter, Dolly Parton, Carole King and Loretta Lynn.
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Family Beautiful
With Gamble Creek playing out regularly, I asked Kim what
the future direction she would be taking Gamble Creek. Her
answer was very interesting. “I am really wanting to fuse my
musical theatre background with my new found success in
music and write a musical review. And I am working on writing
and recording original music this year. I am currently writing
music for the Shriners Org. I am performing at a benefit for
them 3/14. Didn’t know much about the Shriners so I took a
tour of the Children’s Hospital up in Tampa. I was so moved
by the love and goodness they pour out to children that I wrote
a song about it, ‘Sandstone Road of Love.’ I have also been
asked to write some original music for the Animal Network’s
new campaign. I’m a huge animal lover and have worked with
local animal rescue people volunteering my time to help out at
adoption drives.”
Kim and the band are working on their first single “Walking
Out.” She expects to have it out on I Tunes in a month. She is
also working with Sound Lounge Music in Sarasota to produce
her first CD later this year.
You need to get out and check this band out. They are some
awesome musicians playing some great music. Lets keep Live
Music Alive and Well. Tim Calandra
www.gamblecreekband.com
THE DEVYN
Whiskey, Cigars and Fast Cars, a special event
hosted by the Devyn this past March, was the first
of an annual celebration of a Gentleman’s favorite
things. The evening consisted of exotic cars, fine
whiskey, cigar sampling and live entertainment.
Also, there was a fire arm display provided by High
Noon Range.
Women made their presence known to also enjoy
the best of the men’s preferred upscale “toys.”
The $75 ticket included complimentary cigar and
outdoor lounge, whiskey tastings, exotic car viewing, live entertainment by Tasa+Rob, and catered
hors d’ouevres by Cafe Gabbiano. A fine time
amongst fine novelities.
Another first for The Devyn, Blush: Ladies Night to benefit The Center for Building Hope. Upon arrival, on March 26th,
guests were greeted with a glass of champagne or wine (in blush). The patrons enjoyed a night of little bites provided by
Cafe Gabbiano, wine tasting, boutique shopping and prizes. A combination to make any woman “ blush” with delight.
Donna Fishburn
www.thedevyn.com
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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Family Beautiful
Golf
Heaven
photo by Guy Aseltine
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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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 2015 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
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Family Beautiful
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
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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Family Beautiful
Presented by
Center for Building Hope
Sophisticated Strut
fashion series
The Founders Club
3001 Founders Club Dr, Sarasota, FL 34240
Thursday, May 21, 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
Sponsored by
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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Porsche Cayman
King of the Road
I slid into the Porsche Cayman and my general sense of well-being intensified to a new high. It’s not just the feeling of
possessing the road, it is the embodiment of style, speed and iconography of the Porsche brand.
The interior cradles you in luxury, yet you still fully understand the power that lies beneath. Many a film has been created
around the concept of owning and driving a Porsche. I can understand why. It is something that is not quite tenable, but it
speaks to you. Maybe it is the stares you get driving down an ordinary road, doing an everyday thing. But in a Porsche, it
is different, just better.
The Porsche Design Edition 1 is a Cayman S model designed by Porsche Design, commemorating the 35th anniversary
of Porsche Design. The all car features a black full leather interior including seats, dashboard, and door trim as well as
black Alcantara steering wheel, gear change lever, handbrake grip, and headliner. The DE1 also is fitted standard with
the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), 19-inch 911 (997) Turbo wheels with 235/35 ZR 19 front and
265/35 ZR 19 rear tires, unique Porsche Design script on the instrument dials, stainless steel entry plate engraved with
“Porsche Design Edition 1,” all-red rear taillights, custom vinyl exterior black-on-black graphics.
The Cayman S Sport comes in Bright Orange and Signal Green (from the 911 GT3 RS), as well as Carrera White, Speed
Yellow, Guards Red, Black and Arctic Silver. The Cayman S Sport also features short shifter, sports seats, deviated color
seatbelts, “Cayman S” striping on the door sides, black Porsche Design 19-inch wheels, various gloss black interior trims,
gloss black side mirrors, stainless steel door sills with “Cayman S Sport” script, 5mm wheel spacers, and Alcantara steering wheel and shift knob directly from the 997 911 GT3 RS. The instrumentation loses its hood for a sportier look. The
body is lowered by 1 cm due to its PASM feature. A total of 700 were made for the worldwide market.
The driving experience of a Porsche is one of a kind. It is as though you are in a film of your life, not just going through the
motions. Driving is not just getting from point A to point B, you have a more well defined purpose. To show the other drivers
how it is done. And it is done with style, sophistication and panache. All of course, in the Porsche Cayman. Susan Short
www.Suncoastmotorsports.com
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Lincoln MKC
Sporty Luxury
As you peruse the new Lincoln MKC, you definitely notice that it is a smaller version of the MKX. But, is smaller better?
That is the question. I was pleasantly surprised at the amount of room in the luxe cabin. The interior was beautiful, two
tone leather, and very comfortable. The lighting was stunning, it can be changed and has the ability of actually enhancing
your mood and the driving experience.
The “gear shift” is all automatic and a line of button shifts to the right of the steering wheel. Your phone is easily
synched with the great “Sync” system. Hands free for talk, text, music access and just about everything is super easy,
so you can safely keep your eyes and concentration on the road.
The driving is pure Lincoln luxury. Any outside road noise is barely perceptible. The acceleration is excellent and the
steering is finely tuned. My absolute favorite feature is the approach detection with a lighted logo welcome mat. So
awesome! The car comes with adaptive cruise control, it also has a lane keeping system that alerts you if you are sliding
out of your lane. There is park assist, extra wide reverse camera allows you to truly see what is going on behind you.
The lift gate is seamless and super quiet, with ample room to put just about any type of sporting equipment, luggage
or anything you would need the space to provide for.
The MKC has amazing lines, fabulous interior and truly a fantastic driving experience. The cabin is ultimately quiet,
enveloping you in silence from all the road noise and outside distractions. It is almost too quiet, but that adds to the
allure of luxury and elegance.
Lincoln is the ultimate in sporty elegance, class and style, but still true to the SUV roots. The MKC is the perfect fit for any
lifestyle. As I stepped back into my MKX, I almost felt that it was too bulky and that the MKC was the latest and greatest.
The lines are sculpted and beautiful, easy to enter and exit in any attire...the MKC is just perfect! Susan Short
www.EdHowardLincoln.com
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Volvo XC60 The Volvo Ocean Race
Spirit of the Sea
It was possibly the most beautiful blue SUV I had ever stepped into. The Ocean Race Volvo was beckoning more than
driving, it was calling my soul of a traveler to get in and just go. The interior was bespoke navy blue with gorgeous
orange stitching, a true champion’s colors.
XC60 VOLVO Ocean Racing edition is the true Spirit of the Sea. The XC60 Ocean Race Edition features unique design
elements that truly embody the relentless pursuit and adventurous spirit of the Volvo Ocean Race.
The XC Volvo’s caption is premium Swedish artistry. It adds next level craftsmanship with walnut inlays and premium soft
leather. The innovation includes a design concept around the people who are driving the vehicles. So the concept is to
simplify and improve your life. There are significant advances in efficient power, connectivity and safety.
This amazing SUV is built for comfort. Every detail reflects Volvo’s passion for substance with style — each, thoughtfully
considered on a simple human level to maximize your comfort and enjoyment.
The XC60 was designed to stand apart from other SUVs. It’s beautiful, minimal design meets maximum, solid utility.
Many reviews have stated that the 2015 Volvo XC60 features a simply elegant design that is first rate with sumptuous
materials. The seats are truly an exception in comfort, they actually hug your body and feel supremely secure. The back
seat is one of the roomiest in its class.
Volvo features a Sensus enter/infotainment system with a 7 inch display screen, an amazing Harmon Karmin 8 speaker
audio system, Bluetooth, satellite radio and Volvo’s City safety system, which can automatically apply the brakes to
prevent a low speed collision.
The luxury level of this vehicle is just powerful. Fun to drive, very quick and agile, the Volvo can assure even the most
sensitive palate to ride in the upmost level of safely and high end technology. Most drivers will likely be quite satisfied
with the front-wheel-drive T6’s power. No matter the engine, the XC60’s ride quality really impresses, with a luxuriously
soft ride that many in this class don’t achieve. Road and wind noise are minimal at highway speeds.
Volvo as a brand is synonymous with safety and extreme safety at that. While driving the ultimate SUV in terms of style
and safety, one often imagines that the most precious cargo is the family, the ultimate gift. In a world of unpredictability,
wouldn’t it be prudent to invest in the most well built vehicle?
This truly is a rhetorical question, as those in the know hands down invest in a Volvo. After driving the XC60 Ocean
Race Series, I can certainly see why. SUSAN SHORT
Special thanks to Lily Pulitzer for Susan’s dress and the girls’ dresses and Marcello Sport for men’s resort attire.
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Exotic Car Fantasy
Let’s face it, the harbinger of all stories of success generally relates back to a bevy of exotic sports cars. What do most
people dream of when considering luxury and wealth? The epitome of sports car heaven, a Lamborghini or perhaps a
McLaren or Ferrari...
It was a blustery Tuesday in Sarasota when I arrived at the headquarters of AutoXotic. A glistening, canary yellow
Lamborghini Gallardo was waiting for me just outside their doors. My heart was pounding, my pulse racing; was this
my car for the day? Suddenly, the calm, ordinary overcast day burst into extreme sports mode. An amazing sports car
to tool around town in with the top down, no less? It was the stuff dreams are made of. Where was James Bond?
Lurking around the corner?
Many people who have the
desire to purchase these
ultra luxe automobiles just
don’t have the time to “drive”
them. Enter in AutoXotic.
They offer exotic rentals of
the finest vehicles available.
They also offer an innovative
ownership plan that lets you
enjoy the prestige of driving
these cars without the cost of
ownership. Available is the
choice of any of the exotic
cars for a 90-day period
every twelve months. It really
does not get much better
than that!
The Lamborghini Gallardo
is in a word, incredible. Just
the horsepower is enough
to make you jump! Put your
foot on the gas, just a tad
and the car screams. It is
like the old adage, once you
drive a Lamborghini, you can
never go back! Sadly, I will
have to, but I had to release
that thought from my psyche
momentarily.
The exotic Lamborghini
Gallardo LP560-4 is currently
available in a coupe body
style and as a spyder convertible. The name LP560-4
refers to its engine position
(“longitudinale posteriore”
or longitudinal rear), its
European horsepower measurement (560 ps) and that
all four wheels are powered.
Susan Short
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TRAVEL
When you think of Siesta Key, you think about the wide beach, the white sand and the
eclectic village. But we found a way to have a memorable weekend on...
The Other End of Siesta Key
The timing of our visit was actually fortuitous. It was a windy and chilly weekend, which was actually a good thing as we
were determined to prove you could have a great time without even relying on the beach itself.
For locals, the “south bridge”– or Stickney Point Bridge– is a mental line of demarcation on the key. Most tourists gravitate to the north. But while most turn right, we turned left. Poet Robert Frost said something about taking the path less
traveled making all the difference.
Erin and I checked in to a resort that was exactly the midway point, a mile and a half, between the south bridge and the
southern tip of the key. “Siesta Key Bungalows” is the best-kept secret on the south end of the key. It’s quietly situated
on Heron Lagoon, midway between Siesta Key Beach and Turtle Beach. It has a tropical feel, sea shells coat the parking lot, with 10 one-bedroom bungalows around a lush courtyard. Kayaks await on the dock adjacent to the sparkling
lagoon. There’s also a heated pool and access to free bikes.
The rooms aren’t really rooms at all—but rather apartments, complete with a living room, dining area and full kitchen.
Very spacious. (The owner has a very similar establishment on Anna Maria Island that is smack dab on the Gulf of
Mexico. It’s called the Bungalow Beach Resort and is equally charming.)
After a lazy day exploring the southern end of the key on foot, we cleaned up and drove another mile and a half south
to one of the nicest restaurants anywhere in Sarasota or Manatee Counties.“Ophelia’s on the Bay” rightfully calls itself
Sarasota’s premier waterfront dining facility. We had a beautiful two-top table facing tranquil Sarasota Bay. It was a
chilly weekend, so no one was sitting along the outdoor tables that are right on the water. Certainly a nice option in
warmer weather.
The restaurant is a local institution, entering it’s 28th year—and a favorite of people celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, etc. The Executive Chef, Daniel Olson, has earned a top-notch reputation over his 15 years in the kitchen. Erin and
I both had lobster—which was served off the shell in a cream sauce with mushrooms and spinach. Sensory overload!
(We also requested gluten-free considerations, which Chef Dan was happy to accommodate.)
“Ophelia’s on the Bay” also has Happy Hour from 4-5pm with small plates between $5-$10. Plus they have a Champagne Jazz brunch buffet every Sunday from 11-2pm. They’re also open every holiday with seasonal/traditional specials. Absolutely a first-class place that’s earned a stellar reputation among local residents and vacationers.
After dinner we went for a nightcap that turned into much more at “Captain Curt’s” karaoke bar. We watched dozens
of people take to the stage and sing lots of obscure songs—so we finally figured, “hey, we’re on vacation—let’s do it!”
After years of wanting to sing karaoke but lacking the courage, Erin and I supported each other through a spirited duet
of “Summer Nights” from Grease. We made it out alive—no one threw tomatoes, and no one heckled us (as far as we
know)– so it was a great way to cap off a fun day.
The next morning, we crossed over to the village area for what’s become one of the most popular brunch spots on
Siesta Key. The “Sun Garden Cafe” isn’t like any other breakfast or lunch restaurant. It’s an eclectic place with a menu
that includes items called “Baba O’Riley” (broccoli, spinach, turkey & boursin cheese omelet with avocado and basil
pesto), “Elvis’ Fried Chicken Plate,” and “Grateful Bread Pudding” with lemon and blueberries.
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It’s family-owned
and operated by
Rick and Suzanne
Munroe and has
won many “Best”
awards from local
critics and readers. True to it’s
name, it includes
a sun garden area
to dine outside—
and is pet friendly.
The only thing as
good as the food
is the service.
If you live in the
area and want
to try a unique
stay-cation, follow
our lead here.
You’ll have a
memorable time
in paradise!
RAY COLLINS
Another Part of Paradise
Beautiful Lake Manatee State Park
I never really liked hiking, but since I like jogging even less, my doctor encouraged me to learn to love getting out in
nature and getting some cardio activity. So, I punched up “hiking trails” and went to the closest one.
But the state park is MUCH more than just hiking. The 6.5-miles of trails can also be used for horseback riding and
bicycling. There’s also fishing, boating, and swimming. Camping is also quite popular. The park has dozens of “mini
cul de sacs” campers can claim as their own. (Details at FloridaStateParks.org.)
Lake Manatee State Park touts itself as “America’s
first two-time national gold medal winner for state
parks.” Pretty impressive. It’s 9 miles east of I-75, exit
220, on State Road 64 (20007 E. State Road 64).
The park extends along three miles of the south
shore of Lake Manatee. It covers 549-acres, and in
short, has something for everybody.
So next time you have a wide-open day or weekend, think about spreading your wings and trying
something new at Lake Manatee State Park!
RAY COLLINS
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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TRAVEL
A Museum that Doubles as a Private Club
The Foundation Room at the
House of Blues
Architects, Interior Designers and Builders take
pride in their work; but do we always recognize
the brilliance of their creations? When you
effortlessly navigate around a room and find
everything exactly where you would like it, did
you pause for moment and think “Thanks,
Architect!” Likewise, as you walk into a room
that immediately improves your mood, massages your senses making you feel better – without
knowing why, have you considered what effort
went into its layout and design?
The Foundation Room, a private Club at the
House of Blues is just such an experience. From
the outside of the building, this inspiration of
Dan Akroyd and business partner Isaac Tigrett
created with the support of Disney, is designed
to emulate an old shack on the Louisiana Bayou
that gave birth to the Blues. From the outside,
you’re unlikely to imagine the tranquility and
museum quality of the interior. That’s right, the
Foundation Room at the various House of Blues
locations are certifiable Museums! Dr. Ken Kastle; a full University Professor and well-known TV
personality, was hired by Isaac Tigrett to curate
– that’s right curate, as in establish a museum
level experience – for the Foundation Rooms. Dr.
Kastle, a piece of history himself, also pursued
a career in History and Education, becoming
one of the foremost experts in Antiquities and
Artifacts – a real life Indiana Jones. A Renaissance man, he started as a child star and is also
known as the Worldwide President of the
Steampunk Guild. Many of you may recognize
him from his role on Pawn Stars, where he
verifies and valuates potential Artifacts. ”House
of Blues was a dream” according to Dr. Kastle,
“and the idea was to create a space where
people could meet, socialize, dance, dream,
make music and love one another in a spiritual
atmosphere.” The next time you visit the
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Foundation Room, ask yourself if you can
feel Dr. Kastle’s “spiritual pilgrimage to find
beautiful artifacts and … create more than
just a museum and tribute, but a temple.”
A museum was, indeed, created within Dr.
Kastle’s Temple. Irreplaceable artifacts from
the Hindu religion and Voodoo culture are
expertly displayed. Leaving the elevator,
you are transported through Temple doors
into the Foundation Room. Over 15,000
sq. feet of wall is covered with the brilliant
colors of handmade fabrics, each hand
embroidered by Nath Tribal women from
deep in the Thar Desert. “The embroidery
is so intricate” Dr. Kastle points out, “that
many of the women go blind sewing” these
traditional wedding gifts for their family’s
young bride.
You cannot help being struck by the Deities,
respectfully and expertly placed throughout the Foundation Room. The size of
these sculptures and woodcarvings would
overwhelm a smaller room. The elephant
headed Ganesha, son of Lord Shiva, is a
400-pound bronze from South India’s 16th
century Raja Raja Cholla Dynasty that has
been worshipped for 400 years. Dr. Kastle
rescued this artifact; which originally rested
at the Kanchipuram Temple, one of India’s
holiest cities, before it was entirely lost to
history through neglect.
In the Buddha Room, Dr. Kastle placed a huge bust of Lord Buddha ensconced in delicate light that creates a remarkable sense of serenity. The room, itself, is a reconstructed Temple Cart that was pulled through Buvhaneshwara streets
on giant wooden wheels. Elsewhere, Dr. Kastle placed a carved sandalwood Lord Rama statue. “This statue is also one
of the finest I have seen in my life.” He remarks, continuing in obvious awe: “The face is delicate and pure. Lord Rama
is looking with such great sagacity in a very, almost feminine way. His beauty is beyond sex, astounding and fantastic
carving. This statue is also attributed to the Raganathan family. I would be unable to assign a price to this piece; but
bidding should start at $750,000.00 (USD). Need I say more?”
The Foundation Room’s entryways are vast, intricately carved wooden Palace doorways from Rajasthan featuring
Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of wealth, blessing every person who enters with luck and wealth. The main dining
room’s ceiling is an historical work of glass composed of very small painted elements of glass installed piece by piece
that would have been lost to history; except for its acquisition by Dr. Kastle for the Foundation Room. Expertly positioned
glass artifacts from churches, synagogues and mosques were likewise saved and placed within the Foundation Room.
Amongst museum curators, there is agreement that the installation and curetting of the many priceless, sometimes
differing period artifacts, could not have been duplicated by most of the world’s greatest museums.
So, it seems, the House of Blues’ Foundation Society, known for its philanthropic work saving music for young student,
has also saved and honored many rapidly disappearing artifacts; which are still available for generations to enjoy as
one of the most important parts of its ambiance.
I highly recommend a visit. Plan to stay awhile, there’s a lot to take in. Thank you, Dr. Kastle and House of Blues Las
Vegas. Jeff Fishman
Curator / Antiquities Expert: Dr. Ken Kastle; Photographer: Jake Klein of Jacob Klein Photography; Shoot Producer: Eric Grayson, United Cinema Group
Location: Foundation Room at Las Vegas House of Blues.
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TRAVEL
If you’re looking for stuffiness, there are other places to go. If you’re looking to be
“chill,” check out the Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando where you are the star!
Rock-n-Roll Resort
We pulled off I-4 and up a driveway next to a beautiful lawn. But we knew this place was different when we passed a
sculpture/fountain of 42 bronze guitars. And our suspicions were confirmed when the Valet opened my car door and
said, “Hey, boss. Need help with your stuff?” Yes, this is the tone of the Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando where
you can expect to be called “boss” more than once during your stay.
This is the quintessential place for music fans to stay—there is memorabilia throughout the resort and even a full-length
mirror in each room with lines on it that designate how tall certain music icons were—or are.
After Erin and I settled in our beautiful room, we freshened up and went downstairs for dinner at one of the nicest
steakhouses you’ll find. The Palm Restaurant was established in 1926 and now has a “family of restaurants” at a couple
dozen locations around the country. When you get around fine dining, you can tell: The wait-staff just “gets it.” Smooth.
Palm is known for their steaks, lobsters and Italian dishes.
Afterward we got a nightcap at the adjacent Velvet Bar. It has a lively atmosphere and included outdoor seating as well
overlooking the pool. I loved the 80s music that filled the room.
The next morning, we got up early and made the short walk to Universal Studios Florida. You can also hire a pedicab or
take a free shuttle-boat, or shuttle-bus. (7am-2am.)
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Without any kids with us, we were
determined to see if two adults could
have fun in a theme park. The first “ride”
was called “Disaster” which included a
hologram—or a walking-talking image–
of actor Christopher Walken. It seemed
like he was right there on the stage, interacting with our guide! Amazing technology! After choosing several people from
the audience, a short video was produced
that we later enjoyed while being rocked
around in a subway car, while fire and
water raged all around us from a safe
distance. Well done.
We also enjoyed an exhibit called the
Horror Make-up Show The performers
again used people in the audience to
make it more interactive. It was both fun
and educational. When we came out, we
were recruited into a magic show in a
small parlor-like room directly across the
street. A young magician did the usual
card tricks, but also was able to levitate
coins.The streets were alive with people,
performers and music. You never know
when a Blues Brothers show would break
out in front of you. Fun atmosphere.
On our way to switching to another park
within Universal Orlando Resort, we
stopped for lunch at the Hard Rock Cafe.
Erin and I both are gluten-free (me, by
DNA, her by support), but we enjoyed a
couple of cheeseburgers and french fries
in this classic rock-n-roll restaurant. Not
a place for a quiet and peaceful lunch,
but you know that going in.
The other park, “Islands of Adventure,”
includes “The Wizarding World of Harry
Potter – Hogsmeade,” a very impressive and much-talked about castle up on a hill. We saw a lot of people dressed in
Harry Potter memorabilia. (Fun fact: The original artist who decided what Harry Potter should look like lives in Sarasota.
She modeled his features after her own!)
Hard Rock Hotel also has a “Universal Attraction Ticket Center” as well as a concierge desk to help with your plans. If
you stay at the hotel, you also get free Universal Express ride access which allows you to skip the regular lines. This is a
wonderful idea that saved us a lot of time.
We came back and freshened up for dinner at a brightly-lit restaurant called “The Kitchen.” They have a wide-range of
“contemporary New American cuisine and upscale comfort food.” We were especially impressed by the service here.
This is a family restaurant, complete with costumed mascots visiting certain tables.
The next morning, we went for a “power walk” back toward Universal’s City Walk, which is open to the public. We
wanted to soak up every bit of that area before we headed back to Sarasota. Speaking of soaking up, there’s a large
pool area with entertainment, cabana rentals and a giant slide. The weather didn’t cooperate while we were there,
otherwise we would have spent a lot of time poolside.
From high-energy to low key, the Hard Rock Hotel has it all for any rock-n-roll taste. After all, you’re the boss.
RAY COLLINS
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Photos by InStudio E Photography
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Photos by InStudio E Photography
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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
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Family Beautiful
February has been an extremely busy
month for Sarasota Film Society. With
the premier party of ”Fifty Shades of
Grey” at Lakewood Ranch, to the Academy Awards Party at both cinemas, we
are finally able to catch our breath.
If you happened to be one of the more
than 300 attendees at the Premier Party
(incidentally we had to stop ticket sales
because of the overwhelming response)
you would have enjoyed a fabulous
night of food, drink and entertainment
for a very modest price.
The next opportunity for a similar event may be the sequel to “Magic Mike,” tentatively scheduled for a July opening.
Check our website www.filmsociety.org for current and future film time and dates.
Once again the Academy Awards Party was well received in both theaters. We had our traditional red carpet entrance
as well as photo opportunities in front of our “step and repeat.” Guests were treated to a cocktail hour prior to the show
with a plentiful selection of wine and hor d’oeuvres.
At the time of this writing we have no major events to report for the spring, however it’s always best to check our website for current up-dates. In July, we are once again planning on resuming our Future Film Maker Program.
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May Your
Dreams
Come True
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Photo Courtesy of Sand Petal Weddings
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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
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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
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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
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Family Beautiful
10 % off
with this ad
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or coupon
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Nothing is better for the body and soul than
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The unique properties of the Oleander Plant were accidentally discovered during the execution of advance research
for the uses of the shrub. The holding these plants provided – remarkable age-defying
results led to the delivery from the patent pending extract of the Nerium Oleander Plant.
This lead to the creation of the Nerium AD Skin Care Line.
NeriumAD Day and Night Creams feature an exclusive, patented NAE-8 extract.
The mentioned component addresses multiple skincare concerns at once: including
the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, enlarged pores and uneven
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The reviews are positive and extraordinary. Here is a sample of a few: no more
foundation needed, acne scars gone and sun damaged chest greatly
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Looking younger makes you feel younger!!
Donna Fishburn
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Restaurant Review
Sophistication in downtown Bradenton. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like
you’re in a much bigger city. When you read the owner/chef’s credentials you’ll
understand why.
So Much at SoMa
I actually had something happen during my experience at Soma Creek Side Restaurant that’s never
happened before—and it broadened my horizon.
The waitress didn’t hear what I had ordered and
brought out something entirely different, something I wouldn’t have thought to order. But when it
arrived, I said, “Let me try this.” It was a brilliant
mistake.
I said “mahi” but she thought I said “ahi” and I wound up having a different kind of seafood meal. Let me
recommend the ahi tuna hibachi with shrimp-jasmine fried rice, pea shoots and passion fruit ponzu ($27).
Erin also enjoyed her Florida lobster bisque with coconut, curry and cilantro ($8) followed by pork rib-eye
grilled spiced maple glazed with brussel sprouts and cheddar hash ($22). There are also plenty of appetizers
($4-$16) and salads ($7-$13) to enjoy as well.
There’s a wide selection of wine from around the world and the prices are reasonable. Glasses average $8, bottles
range from $25 to $70.
We each had a dessert shot, something I wish more restaurants would do. Just a few bites, not enough time
for guilt to set in. I had dark and white chocolate, coconut-salt caramel mousse and Erin had a raspberry swirl
cheesecake ($5). Larger desserts are also available—guava pound cake or white chocolate mousse ($9).
“Soma” is simply a cool place and cozy (50 seats). It’s dimly lit, which always adds to an atmosphere. Big
windows line the walls, looking out on busy Manatee Avenue West. Parking couldn’t be easier in the nearly
attached garage next door. Directions from Sarasota are easy: Drive north on US 41 (41 is called 14th St. in
Bradenton).
The man behind it all is Dave Shiplett. He was born and raised in Bradenton but then headed west to San
Francisco where he learned cooking and customer service. He attended culinary school in the heart of the city.
His mantra,“People eat with their eyes: if it’s beautiful, then it’s compelling.” He never loses sight of that. The
name of the restaurant came from San Francisco—“Soma” is a contraction for “South of Market Street.” (Just
like New York’s “SoHo” is after “South of Houston Street.”)
“Soma” also has an extensive lunch menu that includes appetizers, flat bread pizza, sandwiches and main courses
($5-$24). They also do parties on the premises and catering.
If you want to go out in downtown Bradenton and feel like you’re a world away, head to Soma Creek Side.
RAY COLLINS
Soma Creek Side Restaurant
1401 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205
941-567-4001 • www.SomaCreekSide.com
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Nick Johnson
A Passion for Polo
The world class area of Lakewood Ranch has many splendid defining features. Polo is one of them. Many are not familiar
with the Sport of Kings, but the Sarasota Polo Club has been established since 1991, attracting polo enthusiasts and amazing players from all over the world. Every Sunday afternoon during the season, audiences can enjoy the “fastest game at
your feet.”
Amongst these superb athletes is a standout in every way, the charming and erudite Nick Johnson. A young and passionate
polo player, he began riding at the age of two at a small riding school in West Sussex. He developed a deep love for horses,
he was given his first pony at four years old, which he rode every weekend around the beautiful countryside in Southern
England.
Nick has spent his winters in Sarasota for the past three years. When the Sarasota polo season ends, he travels to the
Villages and then takes a break to visit his family in England as well as his eight horses that he boards there. Then it is off
to the luxe life playing polo in Spain for the summer, where his horses can be boarded there or it could be back to the States
to either Tennessee or Virginia.
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During the Sarasota season, he has 13 horses which are carefully attended to by either himself or his faithful and well trained
groom. When the season is over, the groom as well as the 13 horses travel with him. That is a fairly large entourage.
According to Nick, one of his favorite moments in polo in Florida was playing against his Uncle in Vero Beach, who just
happens to be the polo coach for the University of Miami. Polo Nirvana is nearby in Palm Beach, where some of the best of
the best play.
At five years old, Nick had his first major experience with competitive high goal polo while watching his uncle’s victory in the
1996 British Open at Cowdray Park Polo Club. Nick was mesmerized by the speed, the exceptional agility of the ponies and
skilled team. Eduardo Heguy, of that skilled team, became Nick’s idol with his incredible goal scoring ability, scoring eleven
out of the 13 goals.
It was while watching this final that Nick realized that a career in polo was the path he wished to follow. In every sport,
there is a distinct moment in which the supremacy of the sport enchants the prospective player and for Nick this was that
moment. He was enthralled by the sport; and since that time Nick has dedicated his young life to achieving his goal.
When Nick was 16, he was offered a position to play in Andre Fattel’s eight goal team at the end of the 2007 season. He
was very impressed with Nick’s skill and Andre introduced him to his Argentine professional Marcelo Pascual, a “patron” of
polo. Nick and Marcelo developed a strong bond and he was soon invited to Argentina to train at Marcelo’s Estancia.
During the eighteen goal tournaments at Adolfo Cambiaso’s (a large polo patron) farm, Can`ueles, an unforeseen eventuality occurred. Nick received a hard ride off sending his trusted and agile horse into the goal post and sadly, Nick was
thrown off resulting in a break to his collarbone that required surgery. His operation consisted of a steel plate implanted by
seven screws to stabilize his collarbone. Nick wasted no time getting back on a pony and into the saddle. A true polo player!
Having a phenomenal season in 2009, Nick was awarded a polo scholarship to the Royal Agricultural College to study
International Equine and Agriculture Business Management. Mid 2010 Season another injury plagued Nick. He was hooked
in the fold of his arm and this injury required 32 stitches and various sessions of physiotherapy until he finally regained full
use of his arm. These type of injuries are an unfortunate side effect of playing a sport that is such a huge part of Nick’s life.
He takes it in stride, very matter of fact, without a huge outpouring of emotion.
Above all, Nick’s principal focus has always been the ponies. He worships polo; but at the heart of this is his love for the
animal that makes the sport possible. For Nick, the ponies’ welfare is at the center of all characteristics of the sport.
“Three things which make a great player,” says Nick, “The quality of your skill with the ball, the quality of your riding; but
most importantly the quality of your pony. The first concern has to be the ponies, as the game would not exist without them.
Even if you are the best rider in the world, you could not become a ten goal player on a donkey!”
What does the future hold for this talented and dashing young Polo player? Definitely more polo all over the world, and
possibly acquiring a polo horse breeding operation. But that is way off in the future. There are many more wins in the
present. Susan Short
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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Daniel Landers
A Generation of Intense Talent
Daniel Landers is the son of television superstar, Audrey Landers. A heartthrob to many teen girls and music fans of
all ages, his wisdom reaches way beyond his years. But Daniel’s life experiences have reached not just the music fans,
but his love of life and his charming and inspirational personality. Daniel is an accomplished singer, songwriter, musician and actor. He splits his time between NYC and Sarasota. His passion is singing and songwriting and he travels
the world performing. His songs have a classic rock influence with an infusion of dance and pop genres. This gives it a
very hip edge. His songs are full of wisdom as well as satire. He is currently finishing his degree at the prestigious Frost
School of Music at the University of Miami in Music Business Administration and Songwriting.
Daniel is an avid outspoken animal rights advocate and environmentalist. He is willing to always fight for what he
believes in and that is the truest of convictions. We were fortunate enough to catch up with him during one of his recent
homecoming visits to Sarasota.
SS - What type of music are you working on now?
DL - I draw on all different genres of music for inspiration, but everything falls into the category of pop. I love writing
songs that are musically intricate, artistic, but still relatable to different types of people.
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SS - What kind of new projects are on the horizon?
DL - I’m working in conjunction with some major NYC venues like
Webster Hall and Slake. I’m writing every day, working with new
producers, and producing my material. Oh, and I’m finishing school
through the University of Miami, in a program I’m spearheading!
SS - Where are you living (city)?
DL - I spend most of my time in the New York City area, but sneak
down to Sarasota any chance I can for some relaxation and family
time. Sarasota is definitely home.
SS - What are you listening to now?
DL - Amy Winehouse is a constant on my playlist. In terms of new
music, I listen to One Republic, Bruno Mars, Robyn, and Katy Perry.
SS - What music genres have shaped your songwriting and interests?
DL - I love listening to Motown, Blues, and Soul. The chords in the
songs aren’t always the most complicated, but the songs are some
of the best ever written. That seemed like the golden age of music. It
just proves that being technical and intricate isn’t always what’s most
important – it’s usually how you feel.
SS - What do you see in the future, 5 years? Will your listening habits
evolve, change, stay the same?
DL - Well when I went to college I had no experience playing the
piano. Teaching myself to play (out of necessity to write what I was
feeling), has shaped my writing and musical habits, exponentially.
Piano helps combine the technical aspects of music with the most
basic emotions in a way that I haven’t found with other instruments
or tools, and it enables creativity. I used to only write on the guitar,
but piano has changed my world.
SS - Tell me a bit about your travel experiences in the Galapagos
Islands.
DL - I studied abroad in the Galápagos Islands, and at the end of
my semester, I wasn’t sure I was even going to come home – that’s
a scary and foreign thought for someone as close to their family as
I am. I loved living there so much, and was offered a position at the
school I was studying through, but decided I needed to come home
to my family!
It was the single most spiritual place I’ve ever been, and the experience was something I think about every day. Regardless of your religious beliefs, the combination of nature and science was profound,
demonstrating how every creature or thing in an environment has a
greater purpose.
SS - Anything you’d like to add...
DL - The most important thing about pursuing any challenging path is
having a great support group and roots. Even though my brother and
dad aren’t in show business, their support is invaluable. I’m lucky to
call my family not only mentors, but best friends and confidantes. I’m
fortunate that at the helm of our family is my grandmother, who
manages my mother, who in turn manages me.
There’s a lot of experience and insight between the two of them,
and the three of us make a great team. When we’re together, I feel
complete and unstoppable. SUSAN SHORT
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
87
The Best Shape of Your Life in 30 Minutes
What if I told you that you could get in the best shape of your life in 30 minutes? My name is Jacob Cornel. I’ve opened
over a dozen gyms in multiple states and in the process have sat down with over a thousand people.
What I have found is that the biggest excuse for people not getting in the best shape of their life is TIME. That said, my
mission was to come up with and develop workout routines that would allow the body to work smarter... not harder and
have you seeing results as soon as the very next workout. What I came up with are Vo2 engaging exercises that not
only allow you to build lean muscle (which speeds up your metabolism) but also gives you about 3 times better cardio
workout than if you were to just be on the treadmill for an hour. The best part is, as I was saying earlier, is you are in
and out in 30 minutes. No more having to schedule your whole day around your workout.
Each workout is one on one and tailored towards your own individual goals. Whether that is wanting to be the best you
can at a particular sport or just drop and keep off those that 20 lbs that you can’t seem to get rid of. If you do it right
once you’ll never have to do it again. That means no crazy diet or ridiculous cardio program, because as you probably
know, the instant you quit this regimen is the day you start going back to your previous situation.
As you can tell I don’t believe in diets. I believe in lifestyle changes. I never want you to cut out foods that you love, but
can show you tricks that can make a huge difference. Therefore, if you would like to see the difference of doing the
right exercises based on your individual goal strengths and weaknesses, this would be an excellent option for you. First
one is on me. If you love every bit of the workout and to continue getting in the best shape of your life, then we can sit
down, put our heads together and see what would work best for you. Jacob Cornell
[email protected] or 941-539-3538
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www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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Gentlemanly Arts
After a relentless week that just seemed to test every part of my gentlemanly self, I like to sit with a special cigar and
enjoy the perfectly matched scotch. The correct company, during these moments of respite, always helps rejuvenate my
inner gentleman. I may not be alone in these sentiments.
At these times I also seem to reflect upon the various ‘Aqua Vitea’ (‘nectar of life’), or ‘liquid gold’ (as Scotch is sometimes known). I have enjoyed, sampled and imbibed over the years. Like many of you, I have my favorites: the select
few I come back to, time and again. Ahh … the pairing
of some of our favorite tipples with some of our favorite
smokes … just a natural fit for most gentlemen.
As most of you may experience, one’s taste can be
extremely varied and depend entirely upon a particular
mood as much as the weather, environment or occasion.
So, for today’s sampling, I sit in my backyard on a sunny
February afternoon in Malibu, California where it has
been a day in the eighties (my apologies to any of you
who are snowed-in around the country) with the temperatures dropping comfortably into the fifties as the sun
fades until tomorrow. Just another brilliant, ocean sunset
as I reminisce about the snow and the change-of-theseasons in that part of America where I grew-up….
We’re sipping Laphroig, what I personally consider one
of the best matches to this Dominican Cohiba; which is
a full-bodied, bold Scotch from the Isle (pronounced “I
lee”) region of Scotland. As consummate scotch drinkers may know, Scotland is divided into approximately Six
Regions for classification of whiskey….
Isle whiskeys are considered “strong” flavored by many
due mainly to the large amount of peat, smoke, and
ocean flavors; which create a big bold, almost overwhelming taste profile. These tastes can overwhelm the
typical malt and vanilla, honey or caramel flavors we
usually experience in scotch, or any single-malt whisk(e)y.
Today, … I enjoy a 10-year-old Cask Strength Laphroig
(from Laphroig, not a specialty bottler) neat with a little
“spring” water. Water? Yes, Water. Water does a number
of things to aid in the enjoyment of our whiskey. Ice can
achieve the same results, over time, as the ice melts. Ice,
however, also has another effect...
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Laphroaig (La-froyg) is located on the island of Isle on the
southern, windward, rocky coastline near Port Ellen. The
word Laphroaig means “the hollow of Broad Bay.” The
Laphroig distillery has been in operation since 1915. The
main flavors noticeable are large amounts of smoke and
peat, along with ocean-type flavors of salt and seaweed.
Usually described as sitting on a rocky, seaweed-strewn
beach with a bonfire. The nose is definitely smoky and
peaty. This is definitely a dram to savor and enjoy.
The Cohiba (Dominican) cigar is medium to full flavored
and pairs well with the whiskey. The rich smoke and
pronounced tobacco flavors bring out the best in this
whiskey pairing. The cigar itself has floral notes and some
sweetness. This is a smoke one can enjoy with a number
of different drams; especially with friends or on the golf
course. Sláinte (Good Health).
JEFF FISHMAN, Steven Shapiro
Malibu Mansion:
Blond Model: McKenzie Seagren (on page 5)
Brunette Model: Ashley (on page 5)
Photographer: Vinni Ratcliff
Shoot Producer: Eric Grayson, United Cinema Group
Location: Jet Luxury, Inc. Malibu Mansion Property
TRAMPS FASHION
COMPRESSION HOSIERY
The brother and sister team of New York-based
fashion designer, Tomas Reyes and hairstylist, Alex
Reyes created Tramps Fashion Compression Hosiery.
Tramps is not the support hose Grandma wore. The
fashionable compression hose include pop, trendy
colors and exciting designs.
With input from the medical community, the siblings
were able to understand the health concerns of compression hosiery. The benefits from Tramps apply to
all age groups, even pregnant women and are made
for the active and modern lifestyles. Whether you are
constantly on your feet or would just prefer some additional comfort; the profits one gains from wearing
Tramps include protection from spider veins, blood
pooling, poor circulation, swelling and aches.
Tramps Fashion Compression Hosiery is made from
breathable lycra blended pliable fabric, keeping legs
cool and ventilated. This interesting and comfortable
wardrobe addition features an open toe design and
gently smooths as it hugs the body. Donna Fishburn
www.TomasRey.es or call 888.302.9292
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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Sunset Confidential: Part 1
Background on an
Over-Night Success
There’s a cute, yet very accurate, saying in Hollywood: “They became an over-night success … Ten years later.”
Accurate because, like nearly every specialty or business, it takes hard work and tenacity to succeed in Hollywood.
Allow me to explain using two good friends, Robert Arevalo and Skip Fredricks, as examples:
Robert Arevalo is an actor. You’ve probably viscerally enjoyed watching him die, horribly, in several Robert Rodriguez
and other movies. An excellent actor, you want to cheer when his character meets a well-deserved end. He’s a large,
fit martial arts expert. Always smiling and soft spoken, he’s the nicest guy you would ever want to meet off-screen.
Like every other accomplished Hollywood actor
and writer, Robert has a “day job.” A little known
trick for meeting a real Hollywood actor on your
visit to Hollywood is sitting down for a meal and
speaking to your server. Many a successful actor
has waited their fair share of tables. Take a Selfie
with your server and then wait a few years. Instead
of waiting tables, Robert is a licensed bounty
hunter. That, thought Gabriel Reyes, Robert’s publicist, was a great story waiting to be told.
When I asked, “Bounty Hunter?” Actors are
known for being emotional, kinder, gentler
souls. “How do you deal with that schizophrenia?” Robert just grinned and I was somehow
reminded by this particular grin that he is a
martial arts expert. Albeit, Robert comes across
warm and fuzzy, trust me, you very much don’t
want to test him.
“First of all, I’ve always been into action movies:
Stallone and Schwarzenegger. Actually, I started
learning how to write and direct because of Stallone’s advice. I walked out with him and his brother
after a workout one day. I just asked Stallone if he
could impart some advice. Stallone smiled, laughed
and he just told me, ‘Look-it, if you want to make
it in this business create your own opportunities.
When I first came to Hollywood, I couldn’t get arrested in this town.’” If you ask, Robert will tell you
that he constantly hones his acting craft and writing
skills along with his physical strength and agility.
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Skip came to entertainment from
another direction; he was an athlete and World Cup Jetski champion until his Jetski was T-Boned
by a celebrity during a charity
race. While the collision left
almost every bone fractured,
Skip and the celebrity remained
friends.
His Jetski career over, Skip
wouldn’t remain down. He
pursued both ESPN and Fox
Sports about Sporting Show
concepts from a competitor’s
perspective. Prime Network
said absolutely, after ESPN
passed, and asked for a
treatment.
Skip, who had no prior formal
training, immediately began attending seminars and voraciously reading everything he could find on television production. His treatment so impressed the network executives, that within six short months, Skip had a pilot followed by
a pick-up for a first-of-its-kind new concept, an ‘On-the-Road’ reality series called Beach Extreme; which became the
most watched series on the network. If you want to know who is responsible for getting networks to think about reality
programming, blame Skip.
Ten years later, Skip and Robert are about to become over-night successes. Jeff Fishman
wearable art
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Open First Friday ArtWalks – 6-9:30 pm, First Saturdays – 11am www.FamilyBeautiful.com
- 4pm
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TMZ Executive Producer, Evan Rosenblum
Interview with a
Celebrity Interviewer
TMZ, a relative newcomer, began in 2005 as the brainchild of Harvey Levin… you know, the “I’m a Lawyer” guy. TMZ
made its way onto TV in 2007. For those who may have forgotten, “TMZ” is short for “The Thirty Mile Zone”; or Hollywood Producer short-speak for the 30-mile radius within which most Hollywood movie production occurs and the
distance after which extra crew fees and travel expenses kick-in. While it’s described as a Celebrity Gossip, Entertainment and Celebrity News organization, I wouldn’t relegate TMZ to merely gossip news coverage. Almost immediately
after launching, TMZ began earning its bones as journalists. TMZ is credited with breaking such global news as the
Michael Jackson investigations and most tragically broke the news of Michael Jackson’s demise; as well as, the many
times difficult-to-watch Donald
Sterling-Clippers debacle. TMZ
created its own sometimes tonguein-cheek, good-humored, unique
Entertainment News coverage style
and format; at which many would
agree they remain the best.
Recently, I was able to speak with
Evan Rosenblum, an Executive
Producer at TMZ and TMZ
Hollywood Sports where he also
performs double-duty as its lead
host. Evan has been with Harvey
Levin from the beginning. He
started as an intern while still
pursuing his undergraduate
degree in Journalism from Arizona
State University. In a very short
period, Evan has come a long way.
During our conversation, I learned
that Evan is credited with breaking
some of TMZ’s biggest stories.
I thought my interview went extremely well exclusively due to Evan, until I played back the recording while writing this
article. My staff overheard the recording. Make no mistake, Evan was articulate, engaging and a real pleasure. The
problem, according to my mostly female staff, is that Evan – and I’m certainly not a very good judge of such things – is
a rather attractive man. I failed to invite him into our office where members of my staff may have had the opportunity to
meet him during the interview – and, according to my staff – ensure the most accurate presentation of Mr. Rosenblum’s
enviable career.
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FB: What was your first journalism job after you graduated?
ER: “Harvey Levin hired me right out of college to be a production assistant on a show called Celebrity Justice. That
show focused on the legal issues involving high profile people, celebrities, everything from the Michael Jackson molestation case to Robert Blake, to Kobe Bryant. So, it was very cool to be a part of the operation. I interviewed people in
the Scott Wyler drug case. It was a very cool on the job kind of experience very early in my career. I remember actually
my first assignment, when I was a production assistant at Celebrity Justice, was a story involving Larry Flynt, and they
sent me over to Larry Flynt’s office to interview him about an issue. And I remember thinking, “I can’t believe I’m about
to go walk into Larry Flynt’s office.” It was a pretty cool experience for a 22 year old kid.”
FB: What is your daily schedule like? Do you have a mantra that helps you through your day?
ER: “We go at about a hundred miles an hour from the second we walk in until the second we leave. It’s ‘hit the
ground running’ when we walk in. First, we have a news meeting for the television show and we shoot that. And then,
we go back to writing more stories for the website. Then, we preview the television show, and then we go back to writing more stories for the website. And then, we do another television show and the war stories. We have TMZ on TV, TMZ
Live, TMZ Hollywood Sports. In between taping and making those shows, we are constantly publishing stories on our
website. It is very busy from start to finish, but it’s a fun job. It’s an exciting job. It’s great.”
FB: How difficult is it to be the producer of live television, which you create on-the-fly as news breaks, and
appearing as talent in your own series?
ER: “It has its challenges, but overall, it is fun and exciting. It’s cool because we are not playing characters. We get to
work on these things from start to finish. So it’s challenging, but it’s rewarding.”
FB: What was the most fun? The most fun story, the most fun location, the most fun personality to cover?
ER: “Right now, I love covering Rob Gronkowski, the tightend for the New England Patriots. He is just one of the best
personalities in not just sports but in Hollywood. He is great. I enjoy covering him. Over the years, you know, there have
been some great people that are a lot of fun out there. Shaquille O’Neal picked up one of our photographers one time,
and kidnapped him for the day. That was a lot of fun. We’ve had guys like John Cena. Mark Cuban was great. He is a
lot of fun. He’s a really interesting guy.”
FB: What would you consider the biggest story you ever broke for TMZ or TMZ Sports?
ER: “Wow. The death of Michael Jackson was probably the biggest story that TMZ ever broke. You know, we also broke
Ray Rice, which was a big story. Going way back: exposing the cover-up in Malibu when Mel Gibson was arrested for
DUI back in, I believe, 2006. Harvey Levin broke that story and it was an incredibly important story.
And following that, I was a big part of the Michael Richards’s story when he went on his racist tirade at the Laugh
Factory, I believe that was in 2006, as well. That was a very important story too because that was the first time you really
saw a TMZ video watermark and logo on the television, it was an important piece of video for us. Moving forward, the
Donald Sterling story, the owner of the Clippers, when we uncovered and posted the audio where he was making racist
comments about black people and Magic Johnson. That was a very important story for us as well.”
FB: Have you ever been star-struck while you did a story?
ER: “I get star-struck all the time! We actually got on the phone with Bo Jackson, a hero of mine growing up. So to be
able to talk to Bo Jackson was an incredible thing. Hulk Hogan, I couldn’t believe it. I came home and I told my wife, ‘I
can’t believe we talked to Hulk Hogan today.’ That was pretty surreal. That was one of my favorites.”
FB: Which is easier, to take the interview or give the interview?
ER: “Oh, I’d much rather be on the interviewing side of the relationship. I like to be asking questions.”
FB: So, let’s call this your chance. Is there anything you would like to ask me? We’ll just call it a cleansing
moment for you.
ER: “Anything I would like to ask you? Sure. What is your favorite TMZ moment?”
FB: That’s a very good question because, honestly, I don’t know that I have one. Every time I tune in, I’m just
wondering who the heck is going to be on the news that day. The Clint
Eastwood one, where he gave you three words. “Well, they’re right.”
ER: “We asked him about American Sniper.”
FB: Right.
ER: “About the critics.” Jeff Fishman
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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Real Life Ray Donovans and Olivia Popes
Hollywood’s Fixers, Private Protection and Security
‘I know a guy,’ several actually. Each is very
good at their interesting craft. All aspects of
their help is quite legal, extremely ethical and
above board. My friends’ respective avocation
is Private Security and Personal Protection. Each
comes from a Military, Secret Service (and other
Alphabet Agency) or Law Enforcement.
You likely won’t recognize real-life Fixers,
they have expert ‘blending-into-the-background’ abilities and are vastly different from
the successful Hollywood characters Ray Donovan (Showtime’s Ray Donovan) and Olivia Pope
(ABC’s Scandal). Just for giggles (his more than
mine), one such friend, my go-to Private Detective, Robert, decided to follow me to a pre-arranged lunch, parked only two cars away from
me and walked into the restaurant right behind
me – all without me noticing his presence. He
walked in, very nonchalantly and sat at my table. I didn’t know he was there until I put down
my menu. Not just a little disconcerting, I must
admit. At first I did not recognize him; until he
couldn’t hold back his laughter. Through his
disguise, I recognized his laugh. After I recognized him, he proceeded to let me know my
route to the restaurant, where I parked; and, as
a Reserve Los Angeles Police Officer, every driving law I (on advice of counsel, I’m taking the
5th) may have ignored on the way to lunch. I
made a mental note to be more watchful on the
way back to the office … as if it would help.
There are public images of Robert on
official duty. Seriously? I couldn’t pick my friend
out of a ‘Line-Up’ of LA’s finest on-duty at the
recent Oscars.
Seated in a deli, we discuss potential
articles about Hollywood’s licensed Private
Investigators. Robert’s recognizable laughter returns. “I don’t have a mustache, I don’t drive a red Ferrari and I don’t
wear Hawaiian shirts.” His glib allusion to Magnum P.I. gives you an insight into his very relaxed and easy going personality. And why not be relaxed. He’s not Star Struck and doesn’t have any predators … he is the PREDATOR.
With a smile on his face, he turns the interview completely around, asking me innocuous questions about how
I was going to interview him. Several minutes and far too many questions later, I am no longer the interviewer.
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Instead, Robert is now the friendly and very polite interrogator. I have unwittingly become the oblivious “Suspect.”
In my head, a voice begins screaming, “Take the 5th!”
Robert then asks: “You realize that following a suspected cheating spouse is a very, very small part of the job?”
His phone rings. It’s a call he must take, “will you pardon me?” Robert asks with genuine politeness. “Of course.” I
feel compelled to respond, belatedly realizing that I really didn’t have as much free will in my response as his smile
and gentle demeanor might overtly express. Robert’s smile momentarily lessens as he ends his call “On it, Boss.
Don’t worry.” Robert proceeds to send several text messages to his crew. I look across the table directly at Robert.
He meets my eye contact, putting his phone away, commenting, “I represent a very well known celebrity that’s being
stalked. Problem is the stalker may not have all their lights turned-on.”
Without skipping a beat, Robert launches back into his preliminary outline for the interview, asking, “what would
you like to discuss? Who do you feel is a celebrity? Are celebrities actors, everyday folks who have even momentarily come into the spotlight or are they CEOs from Fortune 100s? Or, is it a high-profile individual’s family?”
All of it sounds interesting and much more accurate than just the latest dirt on one of Hollywood’s actors.
With my nod of agreement, Robert continues: “When do you recommend that a celebrity start wearing a hidden
or mostly concealed camera for protection against baseless allegations; and more importantly, when do they stop
wearing the camera?”
By now I’ve realized that these are rhetorical questions he doesn’t actually expect me to answer. “In Hollywood,
like anywhere else, you’re probably more concerned with corporate espionage than Paparazzi. Stalkers aren’t only
interested in Hollywood actors. Too many stalkers pulling a Fatal Attraction ‘won’t be ignored.’ Nothing needs to be
blind about a ‘Blind Date.’ How many people even question what they post on social media?”
“It seems Millennials are less concerned with privacy,” I agreed. “What about your computer’s monitors or
that theater-size TV screen you relish at home?” Robert asks me. “Samsung just admitted listening through their
monitors. What protection have you put in place for your car’s Blue Tooth and navigation computer?” Robert quickly
points out; it’s not just the Millennials. We all have our weaknesses. Everyone can be hacked by that nondescript
white van parked outside your office or home, locking onto your WiFi and mobile phone signals.
“Today,” Robert continues, “a counter-surveillance outing – you know, like following the guy following you, say
to a restaurant for lunch” – Robert pauses for my hurt grin acknowledging I’ve been punked, here – “can be more
interesting than protecting against the known stalker. Good news, you don’t have any stalkers … today.”
With a good laugh between friends, we began lunch and the details.
More to follow … Jeff Fishman
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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The 2015 Cadillac CTS
Redesign of Elegance
I stepped in to the stunning pearl white CTS and my every day cares seemed to slip away. Wrapped in luxury and style,
I slowly put my foot on the accelerator and zoom! I was impressed with the substantial pick up and ability to out run
all the traffic nearby. The Bose sound system ensconced the cabin in seamless surround sound; better than any living
room. The cabin was plush, yet sporty, with subtle lighting and exquisite design elements. I was like Thoreau in my own
special cabin in the woods, yet firmly planted on the resort streets of Sarasota!
Blending all-American style with European-inspired handling, the Cadillac CTS has been a prevalent choice with luxury
sedan consumers for more than a decade. Within that period, there have been three generations. The most recent generation of the CTS has grown in both size and sophistication, and according to many car aficionados, it’s the first CTS
to truly be on equal footing with its European and Japanese competition.
Debuting in 2014 and representing the model’s third generation, the current Cadillac CTS sedan is larger and now
competes more directly against midsize luxury sport sedans, leaving the compact sport sedan fight to its smaller ATS
brother. The CTS coupe, wagon and CTS-V sedan carried over unchanged for this year. Improved in every way over its
already respected predecessor, the latest CTS sedan has the looks, the power and the luxury required to go tire-to-tire
against the world’s best in this segment.
There are six main trim levels: Standard, Luxury, Performance, Premium, Sport and Sport Premium. Three engines are
offered but trim level determines availability. A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 272 horsepower starts
things off, and it’s matched to a six-speed automatic transmission and either standard rear-wheel drive or available allwheel drive (AWD). The car has fabulous punch, yet it remains super smooth and handles with amazing agility.
In the evening, the CTS has stunning interior lighting that makes any driving experience a special occasion. Equipment
on the CTS Standard trim includes key-less ignition and entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, power front seats,
an 8-inch touchscreen display and an 11-speaker Bose sound system. Upgrading to the CTS Luxury trim gets you xenon
headlights, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats and added safety features. The CTS Performance is
highlighted by its adaptive suspension, panoramic sunroof, head-up display and heated rear seats. The Premium trim
is similar but adds adaptive cruise control and upgraded front seats and upholstery. Besides its engine, the Vsport is differentiated by its sport-tuned mechanical hardware.
The cabin of the CTS offers solid build quality and rich materials. There’s a very luxurious vibe inside, and we think it’s
one of the most stylish designs you’ll find in this segment. In the new CTS, you are overwhelmed by that feeling of you
have finally arrived, and in impeccable style. Susan Short
www.CoastCadillac.com
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Family Beautiful
www.FamilyBeautiful.com
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Family Beautiful