Estero March 2012

FRONTCOVER

MARCH 2012 ESTERO BASEBALL | FIGS GRILLE | BALLOONS OVER PARADISE

LA CAGE AUX FOLLES

PHILHARMONICCENTER FOR THE ARTS

BANKS GIVE BACK TO LOCAL COMMUNITIES

2012SPRING FASHIONS

2 MARCH 2012 | LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM

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LIFESTYLEMAGAZINEGROUP.COM | MARCH 2012 3

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PUBLISHER Gary Israel

EDITOR IN CHIEF Jeff Perlman

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Danielle Tarrant

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Melanie Geronemus Smit

ART DIRECTOR Alexander Hernandez

WRITERS

Laura Cummings, Jim Freer, Laura Gates, Marla Lazarus

Candy Norton, Bruce Turkel, Peter Zelewski

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Laura Gates

Downtown Photo/Fort Lauderdale,

Dreamfocus Photography, Kevin Lane,

Middle River Arts Photography

ADVERTISING SALES

Gary Israel

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LIFESTYLE PUBLICATIONS, LLC

CHAIRMAN Gary Press

PRESIDENT Jim Norton

88 NE 5th Avenue, Delray Beach, Florida 33483 239.287.4246 | fax 954.252.4432

www.lifestylemagazinegroup.com

©2012 Estero Lifestyle is published by Lifestyle Publications, LLC, all rights reserved. Estero Lifestyle

is a monthly advertising magazine. All contents are protected by copyright and may not be reproduced without written

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harmless from any error.

EsteroLifestyle

PAGE 5


AMERIVEST

6 MARCH 2012

PEOPLE&EVENTS 10 Bonita Blues 12 Estero Relay for Life 14 BBQ Fun Fest 16 Fast and The Furriest 18 Balloons Over Paradise

COVER STORY 18 Broadway’s Best

FEATURE STORY 26 Jet Blue Park Opening

STYLE 32 2012 Spring Fashion 34 Travel Style

BUSINESS&MONEY 36 Banks Give Back 38 Brad Pressentin

40 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

DINING STYLE 42 Figs Grille

SCENEONSITE 46 Grandezza Gives Back 48 Meet Mr. Color

contentsMACRH 2012

MARCH 2012 ESTERO BASEBALL | FIGS GRILLE | BALLOONS OVER PARADISE

LA CAGE AUX FOLLES

PHILHARMONICCENTER FOR THE ARTS

BANKS GIVE BACK TO LOCAL COMMUNITIES

2012SPRING FASHIONS

32

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FROM THE PUBLISHER


DR. AARONLEISHMAN


BONITABLUES

9MARCH

& MARCH 10THRIVERSIDE

PARKBONITABLUES.COM

On Friday, March 9 and Saturday, March 10, 2012, the Bonita Blues Charitable Foundation will host the Sixth Annual Bonita Blues Festival in Riverside Park in downtown Bonita Springs. Festival proceeds will go to local charities including the community chapter of the Wounded Warrior Project (www.woundedwarriorproject.org), Bonita Springs Assistance Offi ce (www.bonitaassistance.org), providing a “hand up” and not a “hand out,” Music For Minors Foundation Inc. (www.music4minors.org), providing musical instruments to local deserving children who are unable to buy them, and the Music Therapy Program at the Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida (www.leememorial.org/childrenhospital), which, with music, brightens the day of children in treatment at the Hospital.

The Festival features a wide range of blues artists and local vendors, at

the band shell in Riverside Park. The goal is to bring National blues acts to Southwest Florida and feature local Blues bands that deserved to be heard on the “Big Stage.”

Headlining Friday night’s show is Tinsley Ellis, who has shared stages with almost every major blues star, including Stevie Ray Vaughan, Otis Rush, Willie Dixon, Koko Taylor, Albert Collins, Buddy Guy, The Allman Brothers and Gov’t Mule. Also performing on Friday is Karen Lovely, 2011 BMA Nominee for Best Contemporary Blues Female Artist, Best Contemporary Blues Album and Song of the Year. Friday’s Lineup also includes Damon Fowler, master of the lap-steel, dobro, and slide guitars. Damon recently opened for BB King and The Steve Miller Band.

Saturday’s headliner is Chicago favorite, Magic Slim & the Teardrops. Over the course of his illustrious career, Slim has been

nominated many times for BMA Awards and has won a half dozen of the coveted awards. This year he’s nominated for best “Traditional Blues Male Artist.” Also performing on Saturday is Trampled Under Foot, out of Kansas City, MO, Winner of the 2008 IBC International Blues Challenge and nominated this year for “Band of the Year,” “Best DVD” and “Best Instrumental Bass.”

Other performers include Skyla Burrell, Mel Melton & the Wicked Mojos, Stringtown, Rick Howard and Mudbone, Deb & the Dynamics, The Kim Page Band and The Gladezmen.

Tickets to the festival are just $30 in advance for a weekend pass. Prices at the gate are $20 for Friday, $25 for Saturday and $40 for the weekend. For additional information and to purchase tickets, visit www.bonitablues.com. Tickets are also available locally at Buffalo Chip and Survey Café.

Giving Back Through the Blues!

PEOPLE&events

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ESTERO RELAYFOR LIFE

17MARCH

ESTEROCOMMUNITY

PARK11AM

St Patrick’s Day will be celebrated a little differently in Estero this year.

Normally the Village is painted green but this year it will be painted purple in honor of the 6th Annual Estero Relay for Life, Estero’s largest program that supports the American Cancer Society.

“Our mission is to `Celebrate More Birthdays’ by keeping people alive”, says Judi Gietzen, Estero

resident and 2012 Co-Event Chair. “This is my third year of involvement and I am so proud of our community for the continued support and growth we experience each year. I have been personally touched by cancer; my oldest brother lost his life a few years ago and gave

the ultimate donation, his body to cancer research“.

Gietzen also serves as President of the Bonita Springs-Estero Chapter of the Women’s Council of Realtors and is a member of the Board of Directors for the Bonita Springs Estero Area Board of Realtors. Although she is extremely busy working as a full time Realtor with Amerivest Realty, she says “This is how I can help and I need to the make time”.

Teams have been campaigning since last September. This year’s goal is $50,000 and we are well on our way but you can still register a team, join an existing team or donate by visiting www.relayforlife.org/esterofl .

“We are thankful to all of the local business, such as Germain Arena and the Grand Oaks Plaza McDonalds, that have shown their support for this worthy cause,” Gietzen says.

This inspirational day will begin at 11:00am with a complimentary Brunch Reception honoring cancer survivors and caregivers at Estero Community Park. To register for brunch and receive your free t-shirt, visit www.relayforlife.org/esterofl .

Following the reception, our Opening Ceremony will begin at noon and includes the traditional survivor and caregiver laps. The 18-hour day will be fi lled with family friendly entertainment organized by Estero resident and Realtor, Michael Jackson.

As dusk falls Saturday evening, Luminaries will light our teams’ way around the track. Luminaries can be purchased in honor of loved ones at www.relayforlife.org/esterofl .

So grab walking shoes and meet us at the Estero Community Park on March 17th for an experience that will change your life.

Estero Relay for Life!

PEOPLE&events

“OUR MISSION

IS TO “CELEBRATE

MORE BIRTHDAYS”

BY KEEPING PEOPLE

ALIVE”


FLORIDAGULF COAST

FGCUH O M E S C H E D U L E H O M E S C H E D U L E

3/1 THU Boston College 6:30 pm3/2 FRI 6:30 pm3/4 SUN 1:00 pm

3/13 TUE Rutgers 6:30 pm3/14 WED 6:30 pm

3/23-25 FRI-SUN ETSU* 6:30 pm

3/9 FRI Georgetown 6:00 pm

3/21 WED Maryland (DH) 5:00 pm

4/17 TUE Jacksonville* (DH) 4:00 pm

M e n ’ s & W o m e n ’ s B a s k e t b a l l2 0 1 2 A t l a n t i c S u n C h a m p i o n s h i p

M a c o n , G AW e d 2 / 2 9 – S a t 3 / 3

F o l l o w u s a t F G C U A T H L E T I C S . C O M f o r c o m p l e t e d e t a i l s

* A - S u n C o n f e r e n c e D H = D o u b l e h e a d e r


ESTEROBBQ FEST

24MARCHESTERO

COMMUNITYPARK11AM

The free event will run from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Estero Community Park and feature food, music, and other fun for all ages.

The excitement of the second annual event is evident in the words of Joe Faerber who serves as chairman of the festival.

“Following up upon the popularity and great success of the Estero Rotary Club’s initial 2011 BBQ & Family Fun Fest, we have decided to make this our signature 2012 annual event and fundraiser for the several worthy charitable organizations that we are supporting this year. With the sponsorship and support of our business community and residents we hope that this family event will grow larger each year, and will put our beautiful area on the map. We promise your entire family a fun-fi lled day of great outdoor events, laser tag and games for the kids, wonderful music all day, including a three hour show by the very popular Cahlua & Cream starting at 5:00 p.m.; exciting raffl e prizes, beautiful exotic cars, great tasting barbecue, delicious food of all varieties, as well

as cold beer, wine, and soft drinks for everyone’s taste. Admission is FREE, so please come to Estero Community Park on Saturday, March 24, starting at 11:00 a.m.”

New for the 2012 BBQ/Family Fun Fest is the Estero Festival of the Arts show. Artwork of students from Pinewoods, San Carlos, and Three Oaks elementary, Three Oaks Middle, and Estero High schools will be displayed. The awards ceremony will be held on the park’s stage at 4:00 p.m. A second added feature for 2012 is the exciting Estero High School Jazz Ensemble. They will perform at 12:30 p.m.

Another new feature of the BBQ/Family Fun Fest is a full display of a Rotary International “Shelter Box” that is used to provide shelter for families after natural disasters like tsunamis, hurricanes, and earth quakes. Each family is provided with a tent and essential equipment to survive in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. The tent includes blankets, water storage and purifi cation equipment, cooking utensils, a stove, a basic tool kit, a

children’s activity pack and other vital items. Since its inception in 2000 Shelter Box has provided shelter for people in more than 150 disasters in 70 countries.

Strolling Magician Keith Raygor will delight crowds from noon to 1:00 p.m. Comic-Ventriloquist David Sleeper and Friends will be strolling from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. entertaining both children and their parents.

Estero Community Park is a great venue with lots of space and plenty of parking. Best of all, proceeds will go to three worthy organizations who help children in need.

treatment of children with cancer in southwest Florida.

the dignity and quality of life for children through a variety of educational programs.

the lives of children with congenital heart defects.

For further information on the BBQ/Family Fun Fest visit www.bbq-estero.com

2nd Annual Rotary Club BBQ Fun Fest

PEOPLE&events

BARBECUE FANS REJOICE! ON THE HEELS OF A VERY SUCCESSFUL 2011 EVENT THE ROTARY CLUB OF ESTERO IS HAVING ITS SECOND ANNUAL BARBECUE & FAMILY FUN FEST ON SATURDAY, MARCH 24, 2012.


TARPONS AD


FAST& THE FURRIEST

31MARCHCOCONUT

POINT8AM

239-332-0364EXT. 309

The exciting event is open to running enthusiasts and animal lovers from all “walks” of life, and

100% of the proceeds benefi t the mission of the Gulf Coast Humane Society, a no-kill shelter and full service veterinary clinic that rescues, cares for, and fi nds forever homes for more than 1,000 abandoned and neglected animals in southwest Florida each year.

The Fast & The Furriest also will feature great music, food and drinks for attendees, raffl e prizes, plus fun-fi lled activities for the entire family. The race begins on Via Coconut Point behind the mall and ends

on Fashion Drive just past the Hollywood Theaters. Offi cial timing

will be provided by 3D Racing.Coconut Point is the ideal host

location for a dog-friendly race and fun walk. With 140 stores (99 of them dog-friendly), Coconut Point is the largest and best-known dog-friendly entertainment destination in the region. The inaugural The Fast & The Furriest in 2011 attracted more than 300 participants and raised more than $23,000 to benefi t GCHS.

“We are thrilled to be back at Coconut Point for the second annual The Fast & The Furriest,” said David Stroud, Executive Director of the Gulf Coast Humane Society. “It’s a beautiful venue for our race participants and their canine companions, and the event is a fantastic fundraiser for our shelter pets.”

Runners and walkers can register as individuals or form teams to raise money to benefi t the shelter. Registration for runners is $25 and walkers is $15, and an

additional $5 for those who wish to bring their dog to the event. Registration and sponsorship forms can be found by visiting www.gulfcoasthumanesociety.org or by calling 239-332-0364 ext. 309 for more information.

Established in 1947 in Fort Myers with off-site adoption locations throughout southwest Florida, GCHS is the region’s original humane society. Gulf Coast Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profi t animal welfare organization that receives no public tax funding of any kind, and no funding from any national animal group.

Whether you are a runner, walker, dog lover, or someone just looking for a fun, family-friendly event to support a great cause, make plans to attend the 2nd annual The Fast & The Furriest 5K Run/1-Mile Walk to benefi t the Gulf Coast Humane Society at Coconut Point on March 31st!

Get Ready to Run With the Big Dogs!

PEOPLE&events

“IT’S A BEAUTIFUL

VENUE FOR OUR RACE

PARTICIPANTS AND THEIR

CANINE COMPANIONS,

AND THE EVENT IS A FANTASTIC

FUNDRAISER FOR OUR

SHELTER PETS.”

THE GULF COAST HUMANE SOCIETY IS STAGING ITS SECOND ANNUAL THE FAST & THE FURRIEST – A DOG-FRIENDLY 5K RUN AND 1-MILE FUN WALK AT COCONUT POINT ON SATURDAY, MARCH 31 , 2012 AT 8AM.


WILDCATRUN AD


BALLOONSOVER

PARADISE

13APRIL

IMMOKALEEREGIONALAIRPORT

“DAWN” 800-218-0007

IMMOKALEE, Fla. – Southwest Floridians and visitors alike will get the view of a lifetime at Seminole Casino Immokalee’s inaugural “Balloons Over Paradise” Festival at Immokalee Regional Airport on April 13-15, starting at dawn daily. This celebration of fl ight will feature more than 30 custom hot air balloons, culinary treats from a variety of Southwest Florida eateries, live entertainment, great giveaways and more. Admission to the event is free.

“We are excited to announce our fi rst-ever ‘Balloons Over Paradise’ Festival and to showcase these fl oating works of art,” said Jim Gibson, director of marketing at Seminole Casino Immokalee. “We want to show travelers that Southwest Florida and Seminole Casino Immokalee have a lot to offer from our scenery, to events, entertainment, culinary delights and more.”

Throughout the weekend, event-goers can look on as hot air balloons take fl ight, fi lling the skies of Southwest Florida with colorful designs. They will delight in the festive display created by balloonists representing various states across the country, including South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Rhode Island and more.

The balloons will kick off each morning with a dawn patrol glow in which they will illuminate to a musical score performed by a live orchestra. Festival goers will be able to walk among the balloons as they infl ate for a mass ascension into the skies, all to the sounds of a big band playing songs from the American songbook. The balloons will be in air for several hours with a great line-up of activities to fi ll the rest of the day. A group of balloons will engage in a mass landing at the airport. Additionally, balloons will test their pilot’s skills with a contest to place

a bean bag closest to a designated target.

Local and regional restaurants will be on hand during the inaugural event, whipping up their classic dishes as well as wonderful seasonal items.

Live entertainment throughout the weekend will stimulate event goers’ ears just as much as their eyes. National recording artists will close out the festival each day. Check the casino’s website for lineup details.

Seminole Casino Immokalee is easily accessible to all of Southwest Florida via I-75, and Southwest Florida International Airport is only a 45-minute drive from the casino. Located between Miami and Naples, north of Alligator Alley on Highway 846, it’s fi ve blocks south of Highway 29. Approximately 30 minutes from Naples and Fort Myers. For directions or other information call toll-free (800) 218-0007 or visit www.seminoleimmokaleecasino.com .

Seminole Casino Immokalee to Paint the Skies “Balloons Over Paradise” Festival April 13-15

PEOPLE&events


FLORIDAEVERBLADES

239.948.PUCK group tickets & special offers

800.745.3000 individual tickets

Breakaway Sports Pub opens at 5:30 before every game. Grab some dinner overlooking the ice!

Game Times: WED/FRI 7:30 & SAT 7:00

THE PHILHAMONIC

STORYBroadway’sbest comes to SouthwestFloridaIT’S SHOWTIME IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA, AS THREE HIT BROADWAY SHOWS ARE HEADED TO THE PHILHARMONIC CENTER FOR THE ARTS IN MARCH AND APRIL – THE TONY AWARD-WINNING REVIVAL OF LA CAGE AUX FOLLES STARRING GEORGE HAMILTON AND CHRISTOPHER SIEBER; THE RIVETING DRAMA RED, WHICH WON A TONY AWARD FOR BEST PLAY; AND THE SPECTACULAR, CRITICALLY HAILED COME FLY AWAY, FEATURING THE SONGS OF FRANK SINATRA AND THE CHOREOGRAPHY OF TWYLA THARP.


THE PHILHAMONIC

STORY

La Cage Aux Folles

One of the biggest hits of the 2010 Broadway season, the revival of the musical comedy classic La Cage Aux Folles won three Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival. La Cage tells the touching tale of one

family’s struggle to stay together and stay true to themselves – and features a glorious score of hummable melodies.It stars veteran actor George Hamilton

and Broadway and television star Christopher Sieber. Hamilton, the debonair star of stage, television and screen, is best known for such films as Where the Boys Are, Your Cheatin’ Heart, Love At First Bite, Zorro The Gay Blade, Godfather III and My One and Only, which was based loosely on his own life.

He also appeared on television’s Dynasty and on Dancing with the Stars. He recently shared some of his thoughts

on La Cage and his wide ranging career. Excerpts follow: How have you managed to survive so

long in show business - and to have had such a versatile career? A lot of it was just by accident. I’m

lucky and humbled to have lasted 52 years in the business. But I had to learn. I really had to learn. You have to reinvent yourself every three years if you want to stay in the business. Cary Grant once said that to me: Reinvent yourself every three years. I’ve remembered that. Didn’t Cary Grant also tell you, “Always

have a tan.”Yes, he said it to me and he also said

it to Tony B e n n e t t . He was doing North by Northwest at the time and I was doing another movie on the same lot. He’d be out there with his sun reflector and say, “No, I don’t have to put on makeup, boys, I’ll just sit here out in the sun.” So you really do spend a lot

of time in the sun?I do. I was always outdoors all my

life. When I was a kid, I grew up in Florida and somehow I got the feeling that girls liked me better with my tan.

La Cage Aux Folles

One of the biggest hits of the 2010 Broadway season, the revival of the musical comedy classic La Cage Aux Folles won three Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival. La Cage tells the touching tale of one

family’s struggle to stay together and stay true to themselves – and features a glorious score of hummable melodies.It stars veteran actor George Hamilton

and Broadway and television star Christopher Sieber. Hamilton, the debonair star of stage, television and screen, is best known for such films as Where the Boys Are, Your Cheatin’ Heart, Love At First Bite, Zorro The Gay Blade, Godfather III and My One and Only, which was based loosely on his own life.

He also appeared on television’s Dynasty and on Dancing with the Stars. He recently shared some of his thoughts

on La Cage and his wide ranging career. Excerpts follow: How have you managed to survive so

long in show business - and to have hadsuch a versatile career? A lot of it was just by accident. I’m

lucky and humbled to have lasted 52 years in the business. But I had to learn. I really had to learn. You have to reinvent yourself every three years if you want to stay in the business. Cary Grant once said that to me: Reinvent yourself every three years. I’ve remembered that. Didn’t Cary Grant also tell you, “Always

have a tan.”Yes, he said it to me and he also said

it to Tony B e n n e t t . He was doing North by Northwest at the time and I was doing another movie on the samelot. He’d be out there with his sun reflector and say, “No, I don’t have to put on makeup, boys, I’ll just sit here out in the sun.” So you really do spend a lot

of time in the sun?I do. I was always outdoors all my

life. When I was a kid, I grew up in Florida and somehow I got the feeling that girls liked me better with my tan.


THE PHILHAMONIC

STORY

Why did La Cage Aux Folles interest you? La Cage is sometimes thought of as

something of an anthem for the gay community. But the real great plays that last are the ones that are universal, that have a theme bigger than the moment and the times. And this one does. It’s about family. It’s about being who you are. It’s about being faithful and loyal to whomever and whatever. And basically

it’s a show that

continues to amaze me. Every night there’s a standing ovation. I’m not the cause of that, I’m just a part of it. It’s due to everybody who’s in the play and those who have written it and conceived it … This is a perfect vehicle for me and it’s an amazing show.

IF YOU GO

La Cage Aux Folles

starring George Hamilton

Tuesday-Saturday,

February 28 - March 3, 8:00 p.m.

Sunday, March 4, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday, March 3 - 4, 2:00 p.m.

Red

“What do you see?”That’s the question that opens Red,

which comes to the Phil’s Daniels Pavilion for six performances at the end of March.The answer is complicated, thought-

provoking and entertaining – and takes us deep into the mind of the great Russian-American abstract artist Mark Rothko (1903-1970). Red is set in Rothko’s studio in the late 1950s at a time when

the artist has just received the world’s largest commission to create a series of murals for the Four Seasons restaurant. The two-man play explores the tug of war between art and commerce, integrity and fame – as Rothko interacts with his young, smart and increasingly disillusioned assistant. Based on real events in Rothko’s

life (about 10 years before the artist committed suicide) Red took Broadway by storm in 2010, receiving seven Tony Award

nominations and winning six, including Best Play. The New York

Times noted, “What we see is an artist seeing, and

it’s impossible not to be thrilled by the

privilege.”For the Naples p r o d u c t i o n , veteran stage actor Bill

McNulty will star as Rothko.

McNulty is a company member with

Actors Theatre of Louisville, where he has done more than 160 productions, and has performed all over the country. The role of Ken, Rothko’s assistant, will be played by New York actor David McElwee.

IF YOU GO

Red

Where: Daniels Pavilion

Tuesday-Saturday,

March 27-31, 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, March 31, 2:00 p.m.

Come Fly Away

In Come Fly Away, two artistic giants tell a universal tale of love and loss. Choreographer and dancer Twyla Tharp

has long understood the allure of Frank Sinatra’s music. In 1976, she created and danced with Mikhail Baryshnikov in the duet Once More Frank for American Ballet Theatre. Six years later, she created the classic Nine Sinatra Songs, for 14 dancers, and two years after that, another duet, Sinatra Suite. When Sinatra received his Kennedy Center honor in 1984, he asked that Tharp’s Sinatra Suite be performed. “She brings class to my music,” he said. Now, Tharp has crafted a more in-depth

collaboration with the great singer, who died in 1998. Come Fly Away is a full-length musical production showcasing Sinatra’s voice accompanied by a 19-piece live big band – and featuring 14 dancers displaying the mesmerizing inventiveness of Tharp’s choreography. The show, which follows four couples as they fall in and out of love at a New York nightclub on a sultry summer evening, received glowing reviews in its 2010 Broadway run (The New York Times called it “spectacular and dazzling … Twyla Tharp’s electrifying celebration of the music of Frank Sinatra will sweep you up in a complete spell.”). For Matthew Dibble, who plays the role

of Chanos in the show, Come Fly Away has been a rare chance to work with “two geniuses.” Dibble has been with Come Fly Away since it first started at Atlanta’s Alliance Theatre in 2009. “The Sinatra tunes are legendary stuff,”

says Dibble. “His music is very real. The phrasing of his voice, the texture. He lived this music.” Then there’s Twyla Tharp, who has

created groundbreaking work in ballet, modern dance and on Broadway. “Working with Twyla is extraordinary”

says Dibble, “because there’s always something new in it every day.” Dibble adds that Tharp’s choreography

and Sinatra’s music are a perfect match. “You can just see it in the audience every night we do this, in how they respond to the show.”

IF YOU GO

Come Fly Away

Thursday-Friday, April 5-6, 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, April 7, 2:00 p.m & 8:00 p.m.



ROTARY CLUBESTERO

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a has long been Southwest Floridaspring training,a popular locale for

when four teams dating back to 1914, w

started up the Grapefruit League. The first team to train in Fort

Myers was the Philadelphia Athletics, owned and managed by Connie Mack, the great-grandfather of Florida Congressman Connie Mack IV. The Athletics built Terry Park Stadium in 1925. It was later used by the Cleveland Indians, Pittsburgh Pirates and Kansas City Royals.

Baseball greats Jimmy Foxx, Bob Feller, Tris Speaker, Ty Cobb, BabeRuth and Roberto Clemente all played on the Terry Park field, whichwas the Royals’ spring training facility until 1987.

In 1991, the Minnesota Twins moved its spring training program to Lee County after 53 years in Orlando. During the inaugural season at Hammond Stadium, the Twins set a Grapefruit League attendancerecord, achieved the best spring training record in history at 21-10, and went on to win the 1991 World Championship.

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SPRINGTRAINING

The Red Sox began training in Fort Myers at City of Palms Park in 1993, having formerly held spring training in Winter Haven. JetBlue Park, a $78 million project funded by tourist taxes, was built in ten months and features 26 percent more seating than City of Palms.

Located at 11581 Daniels Parkway, JetBlue mirrors Fenway Park, including the 37-foot-high “Green Monster” wall and vintage Fenway items like a manual scoreboard and retro seats. In total, the ballpark accommodates 11,000 fans,

including standing room and berm.

Pablo Adorno, who manages the facility, is confident both players and fans will be impressed. “This place is unbelievable,” he said.

The biggest advantage to Adorno’s staff is having all Red Sox facilities in the same complex. Previously, players trained and practiced at the Five-Plex Player Development Facility before heading to exhibition games at City of Palms Park.

“Having everything at one location makes staffing much easier,” Adorno said.

Although years in the making, the new training facility is somewhat

symbolic of the current Red Sox team, which is in the midst of a rebuilding year with a new manager, new general manager and several new players.

The state-of-the-art training facilities, including a rehabilitation center, will be busy year-round. After the Red Sox head back to Boston the first week of April, JetBlue will be home to their rookie team, the Gulf Coast League Red Sox.

Even before construction was completed, Adorno started getting calls from organizations interested in booking the venue for amateur baseball tournaments, concerts and soccer tournaments.

“It’s going to be tricky scheduling everything, but we’ll make it work,” he said.

Located at the Lee County Sports Complex at 14100 Six Mile Cypress Parkway, the Twins’ Hammond Stadium seats 7,500 fans, with an exterior

facade designed to invoke the feeling of Churchill Downs.

Hammond has been recognized as one of Baseball America’s Top Five spring training facilities, featuring roomy box seats just a few feet from the action, a popular Beer Garden and a picturesque Fountain Plaza. Children enjoy the Kids Zone on the veranda, while many fans flock to the Bullpen

Picnic Pavilion for photographs and player autographs.

“It is a clean, fan-friendly ballpark,” said Keith Blasingim, who manages the facility.

Hammond Stadium also is home to the Twins’ minor league affiliate, The Fort Myers Miracle, along with the Gulf Coast League Twins in the rookies. The Twins will play their last spring training home game on April 3, with The Miracle’s season opener scheduled for April 6.

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BANKPHILANTHROPY

Even during the recent recession and the slow recovery that has followed, many civic and charitable organizations and other non-profits have not experienced a downturn in support from the banking industry.

That includes Broward and Lee Counties where large multi-state banks and locally based banks have long been among the leaders in providing financial support and volunteer service by employees.

In Estero, Iberia Bank takes pride in its community involvement supporting ArtFest Fort Myers, United Way of Lee County and Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida among a myriad of other community donations.

Similarly, Finemark National Bank and Florida Gulf Bank are also involved in Estero and Lee County community endeavors. Executives can be seen serving on chamber boards and the boards of other non-profits.

One example is The Pantry of Broward, which provides food and support services to senior citizens who are in need.

No matter the economic climate, numerous banks have remained important supporters with contributions of money and volunteer work in food drives and other programs, said Catherine “Penny” Loughan, CEO of The Pantry of Broward.

In particular, Loughan said that Bank of America “been our

biggest cheerleader.”Lori Chevy, Bank of America’s

market president for Broward County. said: “In an effort to make opportunity possible for organizations that address critical social and economic needs like hunger, I am proud the bank has provided support to this outstanding organization,”

Like many other banks, Bank of America bases its decisions on where to spend philanthropic dollars largely on what it sees as the potential impact throughout

a local community.The Pantry of Broward’s

impact is over several generations of families because many of its services are for grandparents who are raising their grandchildren.

Banks generally do not release localized data on their contributions to charitable and civic organizations, schools, hospitals, museums, performing arts centers and various other non-profits.

Lynne Wines is president of First Southern Bank and is the current chairman of the United Way of Broward County.

She said First Southern has maintained its levels of community support and that the banking industry has remained a major supporter of the United Way.

First Southern is headquartered in Boca Raton and has two branches in Broward County.

“Maybe some banks have had to cut back a bit on financial support (for non-profits),” Wines said. “But I don’t think there have been any reductions in man and woman hours. Bankers realize how much their support is needed.”

The real estate crisis has led to a significant downturn in overall bank earnings, and surviving banks are more tightly monitoring their charitable contributions and other spending.

The nation’s banking industry

Despite Rocky Climate, Banks Committed to CommunityBY JIM FREER

“ IN AN EFFORT TO MAKE OPPORTUNITY POSSIBLE FOR

ORGANIZATIONS THAT ADDRESS CRITICAL SOCIAL

AND ECONOMIC NEEDS LIKE HUNGER, I AM PROUD THE

BANK HAS PROVIDED SUPPORT TO THIS OUTSTANDING

ORGANIZATION.”

BUSINESS&money

LORI CHEVY


BANKPHILANTHROPY

had a composite net loss of $9.8 billion in 2009 but has since been slowly returning to profitability, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.

Banks based in Florida had composite annual net losses between 2008 and 2010 before they began posting quarterly profits last year, according to the FDIC.

But many banks are still earning less than prior to the recession and still spending considerable time and money on workouts of problem real estate loans.

One constant factor in good times and bad is that banks’ civic and charitable donations and services help them comply with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA).

That federal law requires banks to have programs that provide loans and other services to low-income and moderate-income individuals and individuals within their geographic markets.

Another constant is that officials of non-profits should have precise answers when bankers ask for details about operations, goals and services—especially overhead costs.

“We need to know the extent of service to the local community, and how many dollars go all the way through to those who are supposed to benefit,” said Cyril “Sid” Spiro, chairman of Regent Bank which is based in Davie.

Regent can find that information partly because Spiro and other Regent officials are members of boards of directors of several Broward civic and charitable organizations. That includes the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of

Commerce, of which Spiro is a former chairman.

“We provide donations and we tell our employees to assist with programs and to don’t be just a member,” he said.

Working with civic groups brings Regent into contact with other businesses that can become its clients, Spiro said. Meanwhile, some Regent clients have learned about and joined civic groups through their dealings with the bank.

BB&T has a review process, using information from its bankers and clients, before it determines levels of support for civic groups, said Antonio (Tony) Coley, the bank’s city executive for Broward.

“We need to see how our dollars will be leveraged and

how they will make an impact in local communities” said Coley, whose bank is headquartered in Winston-Salem, N.C,

“We are allocated funding and we make decisions on spending locally, here and in our other markets,” he said.

Support for educational programs is among BB&T’s priorities.

“This is an investment to help young people, and it is for the long term,” Coley said. “When people can do better in life, it can help build a better community.”

Coley’s civic activities include the Broward Alliance, where he is a member of the board directors.

“Our involvement in the community also is a catalyst for branding and for bringing business into the bank,” he said.

Education, affordable housing and community development are primary areas for Wells Fargo Bank’s civic support, said Jane Gilbert, the bank’s community affairs officer for South Florida.

Wells Fargo, based in San Francisco, gained its first branches in Florida when it bought Wachovia Bank in 2008. It changed signs on those branches last year.

“The community programs we added (from the merger) are very similar to what we have had at Wells Fargo.” Gilbert said.

She said Wells Fargo increased its community affairs financial contributions in South Florida in 2011, compared with 2010.

In 2011, Wells Fargo contributed nearly $3.5 million and its employees volunteered more than 10,000m hours in support of non-profits and schools in South Florida.

BUSINESS&money

“MAYBE SOME BANKS HAVE HAD TO CUT BACK A BIT ON

FINANCIAL SUPPORT (FOR NON-PROFITS),” WINES SAID.

“BUT I DON’T THINK THERE HAVE BEEN ANY REDUCTIONS

IN MAN AND WOMAN HOURS. BANKERS REALIZE HOW

MUCH THEIR SUPPORT IS NEEDED.”

LYNNE WINES



BRADPRESSINTIN

BIZprofi le

BRAD PRESSENTIN IS A TEAM PLAYER – BOTH ON AND OFF THE COURT. So it’s no surprise that March is a

busy time for the Parkland resident. Not only is college basketball at its peak of excitement with March Madness, but Hard Rock Vodka is expanding into 13 additional markets.

Pressentin accepted the role as the National Sales Director for Hard Rock Vodka and Silver Dagger Vodka in 2009. Both vodkas are owned by Ultimate/Altitude Beverages and Pressentin’s role is to make both vodkas household names.

Silver Dagger is served from a striking, sleek bottle decorated with a raised silver dagger. Keeping with the time-honored symbol of the silver dagger as a badge of honor, Silver Dagger Vodka is designed to refl ect and enhance the appreciation for fi ne spirits.

Hard Rock Vodka was introduced in Florida in fall 2011 with a star-studded grand launch event. It has since made a splash in retail locations, hotels, bars and restaurants throughout Florida, and Pressentin will now oversee the brand’s expansion throughout the United States, including California, Nevada, Arizona, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Maryland, Virginia, Delaware,

West Virginia and Tennessee.“You have to know and believe in what

you are doing,” said Pressentin. “Hard Rock Vodka is a premium, world class vodka imported from England, distilled from the highest quality grain and fi ltered six times for exceptional smoothness and taste. Similarly, Silver Dagger is distilled through a Terrepure patented process. This combination of fi ltration and oxidation reveals a smoother, more refi ned spirit.”

Pressentin’s knowledge and passion for what he does extends into his role as an NCAA referee. He’s been a basketball fan for as long as he can remember - playing on various recreational, high school and college sports teams for several years. When he realized he was not able to play as much anymore, he knew he had to fi nd another way to stay connected.

He began offi ciating in 1979 for public and private high school state tournaments in Wisconsin, where he attended college. During his time in Wisconsin, he offi ciated for more than 20 high school competitions, including championship games.

In 1986, Pressentin offi ciated Division II and III college basketball games in the Midwest, and he has since been a referee

in more than 12 league championship games.

Pressentin currently works Division I, II and III including the Big Ten Conference, Horizon League, Sunshine State League and other various leagues in and around the county.

“I defi nitely have to train year-round just to make sure I’m in the best physical shape I can be,” he says. “I have to keep up with some of the best collegiate players in the country.”

With more than three decades of experience and more than 2,000 games called, Pressentin has a lot of great experiences to look back on. From offi ciating the Division III Final Four in 1999 and 2005 to being on the court during the Division II Elite 8 in 2002. But his favorite experience to date? His fi rst Big Ten game.

“It was at Wisconsin,” he said. “I was going to the game as a fan when I got a call from the head of offi cials who told me that one of the offi cials was having travel issues and wouldn’t be there to start the game. I worked the fi rst half and did a great job. That led me to being hired as a full-time staff member.”

BRAD PRESSENTIN


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CALENDAROF EVENTS

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

MARCH 1-4LA CAGE AUX FOLLESNaples Philharmonic Center for the Arts(239) 597-1900 or thephil.org

MARCH 1-31BRIGADOONBroadway Palm Dinner Theatre(239) 278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com

MARCH 3-31ZAP! POW! BAM! SUPERHERO EXHIBITCenter for the Arts of Bonita Springs(239)495-8989 or artcenterbonita.org

MARCH 3VINTAGE CAR SHOWKoreshan State Historic Site, Estero(239) 481-8321 or floridastateparks.org/koreshan

MARCH 4DISNEY LIVE! PHINEAS AND FERBGermain Arena, Estero(800) 745-3000 or germainarena.com

MARCH 5GENE KRUPA STORYBroadway Palm Dinner Theatre(239) 278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com

RUSSIAN BALLET: SWAN LAKE

Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts(239) 597-1900 or thephil.org

MARCH 6FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONSNaples Philharmonic Center for the Arts(239) 597-1900 or thephil.org

MARCH 6-25REDFlorida Repertory Theatre(239) 332-4488 or floridarep.org

MARCH 7-11MY FAIR LADYBarbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall(239) 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com

MARCH 8-APRIL 29GREAT AMERICAN TRAILER PARK MUSICALOff Broadway Palm Theatre(239) 278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com

MARCH 10TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRAGermain Arena, Estero(800) 745-3000 or germainarena.com

MARCH 11HARLEM GLOBETROTTERSGermain Arena, Estero(800) 745-3000 or germainarena.com

MARCH 12THE MOODY BLUESBarbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall(239) 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com

THREE REDNECK TENORSBroadway Palm Dinner Theatre(239)278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com

MARCH 13ELTON JOHNGermain Arena, Estero(800) 745-3000 or germainarena.com

MARCH 16RICKY SKAGGS & KY THUNDER WITH NPONaples Philharmonic Center

for the Arts(239) 597-1900 or thephil.org

MARCH 16-17SWFL SYMPHONY: BEHIND THE MASKBarbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall(239) 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com

MARCH 16-18DISNEY ON ICE: TOY STORY 3Germain Arena, Estero(800) 745-3000 or germainarena.com

MARCH 17SW FLORIDA READING FESTIVAL10 am-4 pm at Harborside Event Center, Ft. Myerswww.readfest.org

RELAY FOR LIFE OF ESTERO12 pm-6 pm at Estero Community Park

ANTIQUE ENGINE SHOWKoreshan State Historic Site, Estero(239)481-8321 or floridastateparks.org/koreshan

MARCH 17-18LOVE LETTERSNaples Philharmonic Center for the Arts(239) 597-1900 or thephil.org

MARCH 18BONITA SPRINGS CONCERT BAND2 p.m. at Riverside Park, Bonita Springs

MARCH 19CHARLIE THOMAS & THE DRIFTERSBroadway Palm Dinner Theatre

(239) 278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com

MARCH 20NEW YORK TENORSBarbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall(239) 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com

MARCH 21FT MYERS FILM FEST: RED CARPET OPENING NIGHTBarbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall(239) 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com

MARCH 22ERIC CHURCHGermain Arena, Estero(800) 745-3000 or germainarena.com

MARCH 23DOO WOP ROCK N’ ROLLBarbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall(239) 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com

MARCH 23-24LUCIE ARNAZNaples Philharmonic Center for the Arts(239) 597-1900 or thephil.org

MARCH 24BBQ & FAMILY FUN FEST11 am-9 pm at Estero Community ParkRotary Club of Estero: BBQ-Estero.org

MARCH 24-25DOWNTOWN NAPLES FESTIVAL OF ARTS5th Avenue South, Naples(239) 262-6517 or naplesart.org

MARCH 25-30ARTISTS DEMO: ALAN FLATTMANN/LYNN FERRISCenter for the Arts of

HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP?Email us at [email protected]

CALENDAROFevents

ESTERO EVENTSM A R C H 2 0 1 2


CALENDAROF EVENTS

Bonita Springs(239) 495-8989 or artcenterbonita.org

MARCH 27-31REDNaples Philharmonic Center for the Arts(239) 597-1900 or thephil.org

MARCH 28-APRIL 15WICKEDBarbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall(239) 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com

SPORTING EVENTSMARCH 1ESTERO BASEBALL v. IMMOKALEEEstero High School(239) 947-9400 or est.leeschools.net/athletics

MARCH 1, 2&4FGCU BASEBALL V. BOSTON COLLEGESwanson Stadiumfgcuathletics.com

MARCH 2-3EVERBLADES V. KALAMAZOO WINGSGermain Arena(239) 948-7825 or floridaeverblades.com

MARCH 3TWINS V. RAYSHammond Stadium Ft. Myersminnesota.twins.mlb.com

MARCH 4RED SOX VS. MINNESOTAJetBlue Park, Ft. Myersboston.redsox.mlb.com

MARCH 5TWINS V. RED SOXHammond StadiumFt. Myersminnesota.twins.mlb.com

MARCH 6RED SOX V. BALTIMORE

JetBlue Park, Ft. Myersboston.redsox.mlb.com

ESTERO BASEBALL v. EAST LEEEstero High School(239) 947-9400 or est.leeschools.net/athletics

MARCH 8TWINS V. RAYSHammond Stadium, Ft. Myersminnesota.twins.mlb.com

MARCH 9TWINS V. CARDINALSHammond Stadium, Ft. Myersminnesota.twins.mlb.com

FL TARPONS V. MISS HOUND DOGSGermain Arena(239) 225-6374 or floridatarpons.com

RED SOX V. PITTSBURGHJetBlue Park, Ft. Myersboston.redsox.mlb.com

MARCH 10RED SOX V. TAMPA BAYJetBlue Park, Ft. Myersboston.redsox.mlb.com

MARCH 11TWINS V. YANKEESHammond Stadium, Ft. Myersminnesota.twins.mlb.com

MARCH 12RED SOX V. MIAMIJetBlue Park, Ft. Myersboston.redsox.mlb.com

MARCH 13TWINS V. BLUE JAYSHammond StadiumFt. Myersminnesota.twins.mlb.com

MARCH 13-14FGCU BASEBALL V. RUTGERS

Swanson Stadiumfgcuathletics.com

MARCH 15TWINS V. PIRATESHammond StadiumFt. Myersminnesota.twins.mlb.com

RED SOX V. ST. LOUISJetBlue Park, Ft. Myersboston.redsox.mlb.com

MARCH 16RED SOX V. TWINSJetBlue Park, Ft. Myersboston.redsox.mlb.com

TWINS V. ORIOLESHammond StadiumFt. Myersminnesota.twins.mlb.com

MARCH 16-18FGCU BASEBALL V. UNFSwanson Stadiumfgcuathletics.com

MARCH 17RED SOX V. BALTIMOREJetBlue Park, Ft. Myersboston.redsox.mlb.com

MARCH 18TWINS V. PIRATESHammond Stadium Ft. Myersminnesota.twins.mlb.com

MARCH 19RED SOX V. TWINSJetBlue Park, Ft. Myersboston.redsox.mlb.com

MARCH 20RED SOX V. TORONTOJetBlue Park, Ft. Myersboston.redsox.mlb.com

ESTERO BASEBALL v. GOLDEN GATEEstero High School(239) 947-9400 or est.leeschools.net/athletics

MARCH 21, 23 & 24EVERBLADES V. SC STINGRAYSGermain Arena(239) 948-7825 orfloridaeverblades.com

MARCH 22TWINS V. ORIOLESHammond Stadium, Ft. Myersminnesota.twins.mlb.com

RED SOX V. NY YANKEESJetBlue Park, Ft. Myersboston.redsox.mlb.com

MARCH 23-25FGCU BASEBALL V. ETSUSwanson Stadiumfgcuathletics.com

MARCH 24RED SOX V. PHILADELPHIA

JetBlue Park, Ft. Myersboston.redsox.mlb.com

MARCH 24, 26TWINS V. RAYSHammond Stadium, Ft. Myersminnesota.twins.mlb.com

MARCH 25FL TARPONS V. LAKELAND RAIDERSGermain Arena(239) 225-6374 or floridatarpons.com

MARCH 28TWINS V. PHILLIESHammond StadiumFt. Myersminnesota.twins.mlb.com

ESTERO BASEBALL v. MARINEREstero High School(239) 947-9400 or est.leeschools.net/athletics

MARCH 28, 30 &31EVERBLADES V. GWINNETT GLADIATORSGermain Arena(239) 948-7825 or floridaeverblades.com

MARCH 29ESTERO BASEBALL v. LELYEstero High School(239) 947-9400 or est.leeschools.net/athletics

RED SOX V. TORONTOJetBlue Park, Ft. Myersboston.redsox.mlb.com

MARCH 30TWINS V. RED SOXHammond Stadium, Ft. Myersminnesota.twins.mlb.com

MARCH 31TWINS V. PIRATESHammond Stadium, Ft. Myersminnesota.twins.mlb.com

FIGS GRILLESTORY DINING

“Mediterranean fusion” is how executive chef Sam Tadros describes the flavors melded to create his newest restaurant, Figs Grille. Featuring the best cuisine from three continents, Figs is unlike any other dining experience in the area.

A native of Cairo, Egypt, Tadros went back to his roots for the foundation of this tantalizing trip through the Mediterranean. He harmoniously mingles the spices of the Middle East with the rich sauces of France and Italy, along with the earthiness of Spain and Morocco.

The first thing you notice about Figs is the richness of its decor. Egyptian tapestries and sheer, golden curtains hang on the walls while booths feature large, plush chairs and regal burgundy pillows.

The softly lit dining area is illumined by stunning Egyptian chandeliers, with rays of light passing through dozens of tiny circles cut into the brass.

The dining room has an open feel with ample space between tables. Tapestries help to muffle noise, keeping the dining experience intimate.

On the patio, guests enjoy the sounds of soft Mediterranean music and flowing water from the lighted fountain.

The restaurant was named after the fig, a favorite Mediterranean fruit which makes an appearance in several of the restaurant’s succulent dishes. “Figs have beautiful flavor,” Tadros noted affectionately. “When you blend them with port wine, it becomes unbelievable.”

Tadros often greets his guests at the door and mingles with patrons throughout the course of their meal, ensuring the experience is exceptional. The friendly wait staff is attentive, quickly bringing a choice of bottled or tap water and a bread basket with rolls, along with soft and crispy pita bread and a “can’t get enough” dipping sauce.

The restaurant also features a full wine cellar in a glass-enclosed room attractively showcasing the nearly

one hundred wines and champagnes available from around the globe.

Our culinary journey through the Mediterranean began with appetizers of Tuna Ceviche and Chevre, a pan-fried goat cheese served with arugula, grilled figs with port wine and lingonberry reduction. The lingonberry balances out the earthiness

of the soft goat cheese, while the figs supply a pleasing sweetness to the flavorful dish.

The Tuna Ceviche was most impressive, arriving in a large, metal martini glass. Served over arugula, the scrumptious dish blends sushi-grade tuna, figs, pistachios, red onions, olive oil, red wine vinegar, lime and herbs. The result is a sweet yet nutty flavor with enough kick to make it memorable.

Tadros’ own spice blend includes fourteen different herbs and is used in several of his delectable dishes, particularly Lebanese and Turkish specialties like kebobs and Tagine.

Tagine is a traditional North African dish served in an earthenware pot, complete with a towering, cone-shaped top designed to infuse moisture back into the dish as it cooks.

We tried the Lamb Tagine, with melt-in-your-mouth, tender stewed lamb, complimented by carrots, celery, onion, mushrooms, chickpeas, fresh herbs, lemon preserves and garlic, served over steamed rice.

Our waiter, Adam, was a Moroccan native, and verified the hearty and flavorful dish was true to the cuisine he feasted on as a boy. My dining companion declared it “fabulous” and commented on the generous portion, which left him feeling comfortably full.

The pièce de résistance, however, was the Terra Marvis, an unparalleled fusion of flavors featuring shrimp and filet mignon perfectly complimented by port wine, fig chutney and caramelized onion. When topped with Roquefort -- a soft blue cheese from ewe’s milk ripened in limestone caves -- the culinary combination is simply amazing.

We capped off our dinner with soft, creamy Lemon Sorbetto and Chocolate Marquise, a semisweet chocolate mousse topped with crème anglaise and drizzled with raspberry sauce.

Using only the finest ingredients and a hefty dose of culinary creativity, Figs Grille is sure to please discriminating palates.

Figs Grille is located in Bonita Commons at 25987 South Tamiami Trail and is open for dinner daily from 4:30 to 10 p.m. Reservations are recommended by calling (239)390-1700. A full menu is available on the restaurant’s website at www.figsgrille.com.

DININGstyle

figs grille

DON’TMISS:TAGINE

BY LAURA CUMMINGS



1/4 FIGS GRILLE AD

1/4 FARFALLA AD

1/4 OLD 41 AD

1/4 A TABLE APART

“A thoughtful fusion ofLebanese, Turkish,

Morroccan, French,Spanish Cuisine &a touch of Italy”

Bonita Springs | 239-390-1700

25987 S. Tamiami Trail, #109

Located in Bonita Commons

FULL BAR

next to Art, Etc.

Figs Grille is the latest creation in Sam

Tadros’ impressive resume. Born,

raised, and educated in ancient Cairo,

Egypt. Sam arrived in New Jersey and

began his intensive culinary training.

His decade long tenure as Executive

Chef paved the way for opening his

success urged him to open the award

winning Sam-Bucco Bistro. Now, as

they say, third time’s the charm. Sam

longed to “Go home again” and share

the warmth, culture, and food of

his beloved

Mediterranean...

Hence... Figs Grille.

Welcome4:30-10:00 7 days a week

Reservations Suggested

DISTINGUISHED SELECTION OF 120 WINES

SUN - SAT 5PM-10PM

DINNER SERVED - RESERVATIONS SUGGESTED

CORKSCREW VILLAGE 21301 TAMIAMI TRAIL SOUTH, STE 460Corner of US41 & Corkscrew Rd.

www.ristorantefarfalla.comJOIN US ON FACEBOOK

ELM

Chef/OwnerMichael Fattah

from Bergen County, NJ

(239) 495-9912

Early Dine In for 2Must be Seated by 6pm

2 Courses Each & Bottle of Wine

$44.99 Plus tax &Gratuity

YOUR CHECK10% OFF

Early Dine In fMust be Seated by

RISTORANTE

FINE ITALIAN CUISINE

3 COURSE MEAL WITH WINE PAIRINGSCOOKING CLASS DEMONSTRATIONS MON & WED 12:30PM

Open for Dinner 5pm to 9pmHappy Hour & Prix Fixe Menu

5pm-6pm4295 Bonita Beach R Bonita Springs 34134

(239)221-8540

www.atableapart.com

Limit one per table. Dine in only. Not valid Fri/Sat. Can not be combined with other offers. Expires 3/31/12.

Not valid on Valentine’s Day.

$10 off any purchase of $50 or more

Valid 5pm-6pm. Dine in only.Can not be combined with other offers. Expires 3/31/12.

Not valid on Valentine’s Day.

Free bottle of house winew/ purchase of 2 entreesfrom our Prix Fixe Menu

Serving Breakfast and LunchOpen Daily 7am–3pmBeer &Wine Served

The best homemade breakfast and lunch in Bonita Springs!WINNER-2008/2009/2010 BEST OF BONITA

News-Press People’s Choice Awards. Homemade specialities including eggs, omelets, pancakes, waffles, homemade soups, salads, chili,Taylor Pork Roll, scrapple, sausage gravy, corned

beef hash, creamed chip beef, roast beef and turkey and “Real” Philly Cheesesteaks, and homemade rice pudding.


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136

PAGE 46SCENE

United Way receives $13,600 raised from the day’s events

Mike & Sydell Zimmerman withDon & Margaret LeRoy

Everblades team of Phil Anderson,Dave Smallwood, Chris Palin & Greg Poss

Tournament Winners: William Dukes, Chris Marrazzo,Dan Marrazzo & Jake Johnson

Yves Belleau & Al Olds with Bipon & Georgie ThakrarGrandezza United Way Campaign Chair Jim Alderfer

“Grandezza Gives Back”

to United WayGrandezza hosted its 1st Annual United Way Golf

Tournament on January 8th, 2012. Amid all the fun in the sun, raffles, silent auctions

and awards, a record $13,600 was raised for United Way by the conclusion of this

amazing day.

SCENEONsite

Bruce Gribler, Abe Rahaim, Orlando Sorrento & Keith VistisenBill Ross, Al Meyer, Ed Grusch& John McCarthy



LEE MEMORIAL HEALTH SYSTEM

AD

When patient Nola Theiss had a stroke, the quick actions of her husband and her medical team saved her life.

Local EMS arrived at Nola’s home on Sanibel within moments of receiving the call. Her trip to Gulf Coast Medical Center was quick, allowing medical personnel to stabilize her condition and start her on the road to recovery.

Today, Nola works full-time with a charity that she launched several years ago, with no visible effects of the stroke. To read more of Nola’s story, please visit: www.LeeMemorial.org/caring.

www.LeeMemorial.org

Dr. Adam HellerNeurologist

Nola TheissFormer Mayor, City of Sanibel

Stroke Survivor

Gulf Coast Medical Center has earned the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association “Get With the Guidelines” Stroke Gold Plus Award

,

.

, .

PAGE 48SCENE

Kevin Steffani & Margaret Antonier

Joyce Speciale, Betsy Doyle & Maria Perretti

Bethany O’Neil & Marine Roy-Linard

Scott Moser & Mark Fanta

“Mr. Color” Carleton Varney & Peter Webster

Meet Mr. Color

Miromar Design Center kicked off its inaugural

Home Design Show Feb. 2-4 with colorful advice

and recollections from “Mr. Color,” Carleton Varney.

Varney is one of America’s best known interior

designers and is president/owner of Dorothy Draper & Co. Inc., in New York City.

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ANDANOTHER

THING

This year a startling shift is occurring that will change the demographics of the world’s most important market forever. 2012 is the first year in history that non-Hispanic white births in the United States will no longer be the majority.

According to The New York Times, “in the latest sign of the nation’s shifting racial and ethnic composition, births to Asian, black and Hispanic women in the United States are on the verge of surpassing births to non-Hispanic whites.”

Please don’t kick yourself for not noticing. How many people caught up in the wave of history actually see what’s going on while it’s happening? As Marshall McLuhan wrote, “We don’t know who discovered water, but we know it wasn’t the fish.” You see, there’s a reason why hindsight is 20/20. There’s a reason why the words should’ve, would’ve and could’ve are usually accompanied by a Three Stooges’ slap to the forehead. And there’s a reason why you should pay attention to this new American reality.

It’s no longer enough to look at things the way they were and wonder why. Instead, look at things the way they’re going to be and wonder where? As in, where is the opportunity?

After all, if minorities accounted for 48% of all births in the US in the 12 months that ended in July 2008, then business as usual is no longer business as usual anymore. And if you haven’t changed to embrace these new consumers then, pardon me for saying it, but you’re talking to ghosts. Specifically, the ghosts of markets past.

By the way, before you think this is only a domestic phenomenon, major demographic changes are not just occurring within The United States of America but in all of the Americas. In direct contrast to what is going on in much of the rest of the world, Latin America’s economy is soaring. Mexico and the 19 countries of Central and South America and the Spanish-speaking Caribbean (not including Cuba) are seeing year over year economic growth. And for the first time in history, this hemispheric growth is not simply due to the exploitation of natural resources but directly related to the ascension of the middle class. In fact, this demographics’ purchasing power is surpassing that of the upper classes for the first time ever.

What is required today is bold new creativity and leadership

based on the realities of the hemisphere the way it’s going to be, not the way it was, and certainly not the way old school marketers would like it to be. What is called for in these exciting yet uncertain times is a new outlook that takes into account the way these emerging consumers pay attention, consume information, make purchase decisions, and ultimately, buy.

It’s not like the clues are always easy to decipher. Way back in 2007, the research firm Information Resources found that salsa outsold ketchup in the United States by $163.4 million. Yet the very same year another market researcher, NPD Group, reported that 48% of households used ketchup in a typical two-week period, three times the number that used salsa. And The Wall Street Journal reported that condiment giant Heinz declined to take a public position, saying instead, “We believe there is room for both in the refrigerator and that consumers don’t view the two products interchangeably.”

Please don’t misunderstand me. I’m not suggesting that simply because these new consumers represent a formerly minority demographic that minority marketing techniques are the right tools to reach them. What I’m suggesting (perhaps “suggesting” is too subtle, perhaps screaming from the mountaintops is a better description of what I’m trying to do here) is that — from advertising to politics, retail to housing — a new understanding of the new majority is essential. Because, if I haven’t made it clear enough so far, these new consumers ARE the majority.

Understanding and embracing these new consumers’ use of technology, language, cultural cues, and financial tools — both online and off — will ultimately determine

who will prevail and who will be sitting by the wayside, wondering what the hell just

happened.

BY BRUCE TURKEL

AND another thing...

THE AMERICAN MARKET JUST CHANGED FOREVER...NO ONE NOTICED.



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