OLD NAPLES NEWS MARCH 2024 ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE A LONG STANDING TRADITION THE COUNTRY CLUB OF NAPLES “WHERE MEMBERS BECOME FRIENDS” BARGE ROSA SIX DAYS AND 700 YEARS IN GASCONY NAPLES AIRPORT AUTHORITY FRIENDLIER, QUIETER NIGHTTIME SKIES
PARK SHORE VENETIAN BAY 351 NEAPOLITAN WAY | $14,895,000 760 STARBOARD DR | $5,295,000 950 ADMIRALTY PARADE | $24,950,000 PORT ROYAL 4419 CRAYTON RD | $7,495,000 888 10TH ST | $2,950,000 OLDE NAPLES SANCERRE 502 | $9,995,000 MOORINGS MOORINGS 800 HARBOUR DRIVE, NAPLES, FLORIDA 34103 (239) 261-3939 © 2022 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. ASPEN • THE HAMPTONS • PALM SPR INGS • MAL IBU • MANHAT TAN • B E V ER LY H I L LS • LAGUNA BEACH • AND MORE
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PO Box 10514 | Naples, FL 34101 Text Copyright | 2024 all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form by any electronic or mechanical means without permission from the publisher. Old Naples News regrets that no responsibility can be accepted for unsolicited material. Opinions expressed by contributors or advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher. Volume 7 Issue 5 March 2024 Direct mailed to the communities of Old Naples • Port Royal • Aqualane Shores Royal Harbor • Moorings • Coquina Sands • Park Shore 8 Issues Published November - April May/June/July | Aug/Sept/Oct Joel Kessler, Publisher 239.248.1641 | [email protected] Rebecca Boucher, Editor 239.285.5101 | [email protected] ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Susan Ashton 239.821.5119 | [email protected] Pamela Thompson 312.515.7286 | [email protected] Travel Editor, Karen T. Bartlett Creative Director, Opus Studio, Inc. Dan Sheridan, Founder & Consultant FLORIDANEIGHBORHOODNEWS.COM OLD NAPLES NEWS FLORIDA NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS We hope you enjoyed, and you may recycle when finished. Board Certified M.D. with 20+ years of Experience in Concierge Holistic Internal Medicine • Moved practice from NYC to Naples • A Cornell University graduate, authored hundreds of print & online publications and has appeared as a medical expert on FOX, CBS, ABC, and NBC. • Author of ‘Diet Slave No More!’ book, phone app, & weight management program. • A luxury concierge-style private practice with direct access to the doctor herself & instant feedback to your questions & needs. • Holistic Primary Care with meticulous attention to lifestyle, nutrition, and Mind- Body balance. Will help you manage your most important asset - your health. Svetlana Kogan, M.D. (239) 676-6883 www.customlongevity.com 720 Fifth Avenue South • Suite 209 Naples, FL 34102
Suite 4266 239-262-4040 The Village on Venetian Bay
8 | Old Naples News March 2024 TERESA HEITMANN City of Naples Mayor Dear Neighbor, It was my great pleasure and honor on December 15, 2023, as the City of Naples’ 100th birthday ended, to rededicate the Norris Center in Cambier Park, to include (in memory of ) M/M Norris’ daughter, Lavern Norris Gaynor. Lavern would have been 100 on December 20, 2023, which is also the “Lavern Norris Gaynor Day” in the City of Naples, as initially proclaimed on December 20, 2021. The Norris Center was dedicated to the memory of Dellora and Lester Norris who made the community center possible. The original Norris Community Center was built in 1964 with a donation from the Norris family as well as their making possible a 1987 renovation. In 2003, the Norris Center was rebuilt to what it is today with the support and backing of Lavern Norris Gaynor, one of many ways she kept her parents’ legacy alive. I honored Lavern “Lal” Norris Gaynor and declared by Proclamation the City’s gratitude to her and the Norris Gaynor family for profoundly influencing the advancement of the City of Naples through their support over many years of children’s causes, education, history, preservation of nature, the Naples pier, and their vast contributions through humanitarian and financial efforts to shape the esteemed community of Naples into what it is today. Following this part of the afternoon, Lal’s family and a few of her closest friends held Lal’s 100th HONOR AND REMEMBRANCE birthday celebration, also at the Norris Community Center. The evening consisted of the attendees reminiscing and sharing memories of how Lal made a difference in their lives. A special auction was held of some of her local artwork and many unique pieces of memorabilia. The proceeds from that, as well as many who gave 100th birthday gifts in her honor, were made to the “Lal Gaynor Early Learning & Beyond Fund” at the Collier Community Foundation. Lal established a fund to support children and education throughout all stages of life. It was Lal’s and now her family’s intent, that this fund would continue beyond her lifetime to benefit the Naples community she so loved. Grants from this fund will be made broadly in continuing support of her passions, for hopefully many years to come. The evening culminated in a toast and everyone singing Happy Birthday to Lal. She was certainly there with us in spirit. Our beloved community members continue to joyously bless and inspire us for generations to come. Mrs. Gaynor is one of many philanthropists who have shaped the City of Naples, and we are forever grateful for their contributions. Blessings, Teresa Heitmann Mayor, City of Naples
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12 | Old Naples News March 2024 In 1976, Naples began celebrating St. Patrick’s Day. To commemorate the grand day, Fr. Thomas Goggin, a priest at St. Ann Parish and a proud Irishman, led likeminded Irish from St. Louis, MO around the Church grounds. And, thus, the St. Patrick’s Day tradition began in Naples. A few months later, Father Goggin spoke with Pat McDonald, Mike Joynt, Dick Keogh and Gerry Deppe to organize a St. Patrick’s Day Celebration. Pat McDonald agreed to be chairman and the parade committee began. The Naples St. Patrick’s Foundation Inc. is a 501(c) (3) and is proud to organize and celebrate the Annual Naples St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The parade will be Saturday, March 16, rain or shine! The flag raising is at 9:30 a.m. in Crayton Cove with the parade starting at 11 a.m. The parade starts at the corner of Third Street South and Tenth Avenue It turns east onto Fifth Avenue South and then east on Eighth Street South to finish in front of the Naples City Hall. To donate to the organization, please visit naplesparade. com/sponsorship. You are helping to build the local music programs and giving young people the chance to have fun, gain confidence, and become leaders. ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE MARCH 16 | 11 AM Photos from The Naples St. Patrick’s Foundation Inc.
March 2024 Old Naples News | 13 2+ Den 2 1,458 MLS# 223059380 DRAMATIC REDUCTION! Now just $830,000 DON’T BE A DOUBTING THOMAS Pelican Bay, offers private gulf access, three beach restaurants, state of the art fitness and tennis centers, not to mention miles of jogging and biking trails. All this and a location near a myriad of restaurants, upscale shopping, even the Baker Museum and Artis—Naples, offering a full array of national and international shows, music, and entertainment. • A superb location, just steps to the private beach tram, berm, and tennis center. • Great pond views from the great room, master, and large lanai. • Walk-out lanai to the pool and spa. • New flooring and updates. • Locked storage and covered parking. THIS ST THOMAS HAS SO MUCH TO OFFER! 6141 Pelican Bay Blvd. #21 | Naples, FL 34108 JIM & LINDA MAYER (239) 290-9685 [email protected] MIKE SHEPHERD (239) 269-7738 [email protected] Call the Mayer-Shepherd Team to guide you to the best lifestyle properties. MayerTeamNaples.com
14 | Old Naples News March 2024 NEW EVENSTAD HORTICULTURE CAMPUS PROPELS NAPLES BOTANICAL GARDEN INTO ITS FUTURE Naples Botanical Garden celebrates the grand opening of the Evenstad Horticulture Campus, its biggest undertaking in a decade and the catalyst for its advancement in plant conservation, horticultural excellence, environmental education, and service to Southwest Florida. The campus is one of the nation’s only specialty tropical growing operations, as the Garden is one of the few places in the continental U.S. where guests can enjoy tropical and subtropical plants year-round in natural, outdoor settings. The facility boasts more than 60,000 square feet of growing space, including three greenhouses, a one-acre sun nursery, and a laboratory suite for propagation, tissue culture, and other processes requiring sterile conditions. The campus was custom-designed for the Naples Botanical Garden. Staff consulted with growers as far away as Singapore to determine the equipment, features, and technology best suited to our collections, conservation goals, and future aspirations. OTHER ATTRIBUTES INCLUDE: • Storm resilience measures, such as backup irrigation and propane and diesel generators. • A reverse osmosis system for water purification. Rain catchment. • Contaminant controls against invasive pests, fungi, and bacterial diseases. An energy-efficient design. • A staff-designed landscape featuring native plants, Caribbean species, and a few rarities showing our collection’s extent. A LEADER IN PLANT CONSERVATION AND ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION. The campus will facilitate research efforts, such as trialing plants for restoration projects and nature-based solutions. This will allow the Garden to better address regional environmental needs, and safeguard rare and threatened plants. A MODEL FOR HORTICULTURAL EXCELLENCE. The Garden will rely less on commercially produced plants and grow more from seeds or cuttings, allowing horticulturists to control growing conditions and root development. It will allow us to accept rare plants from collectors, facilitate sharing with other botanical gardens, and procure specimens long on our wish list. Photo(s) courtesy of The Garden Naples Botanical GardenEvenstad
March 2024 Old Naples News | 15 @charlottekellogg @shopcharlottekellogg Designed for the luxury resort lifestyle Inspired by world travel www.charlottekellogg.com CHARLOTTE KELLOGG Palm Beach | Naples | Newport Photo Credit: Tara Inc, Photography 1300 Third Street South | 239-963-9475 | Open Daily
16 | Old Naples News March 2024 A REGIONAL ECONOMIC FORCE, EMPLOYER, AND TOURIST DESTINATION. The Garden is a $16 million operation, employing nearly 200 staff, and attracting 260,000 guests per year. The state-of-the-art campus will help attract and retain top plant professionals. Expanded facilities will allow us to enhance the visitor experience with exciting new displays, more horticultural material for educational programming, and with new, future gardens that can now be started from seed. The Garden is grateful to namesake donors Grace Evenstad and her late husband, Ken, its Board of Directors, and the many philanthropists who made this project a reality. The State of Florida provided additional funding, thanks to the efforts of state Sen. Kathleen Passidomo and Rep. Bob Rommel. ABOUT NAPLES BOTANICAL GARDEN Naples Botanical Garden is where plants and people thrive together. In addition to our 170-acre showcase for tropical plants, the Garden offers a uniquely beautiful, natural, and ever-changing experience to bring our diverse community together to enjoy companionship, refuge, learning, and celebration. Hours of operation are 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (8 a.m. early entry for members). Visit naplesgarden.org for details. Naming opportunities are still available. For more information, please contact Director of Development Rhea Merrill at [email protected]. Top Left: Naples Botanical Garden Board Chair Kathleen Kapnick addresses 200-plus attendees and Garden staff. Kapnick’s late father-in-law, Harvey Kapnick Jr., donated money to purchase the land on which the Garden sits. Top Right: (from left) President & CEO Donna McGinnis, namesake donor Grace Evenstad, Board of Directors Chair Kathleen Kapnick Middle: Members of the Paul family talk about the new campus with Curator of Special Collections Matt Herrman. Pastor Jean Paul (second from left) of Naples Haitian Church of the Nazarene delivered the invocation. Bottom: Irma and Tom Leonard, among the Garden’s earliest supporters, tour the new campus. Naples Botanical GardenEvenstad
March 2024 Old Naples News | 17 MINOTTI | THE COLLECTIVE 111 Tenth Street South, Suite 202 Naples, FL 34102 | 239.331.4111 NAPLES DESIGN DISTRICT 938 Third Avenue North Naples, FL 34102 | 239.494.1914
18 | Old Naples News March 2024 CATHY BONACCI Author and Marketing & Events Manager Naples Art District A CELEBRATION OF RHAPSODY IN BLUE This year marks the 100th anniversary of “Rhapsody in Blue,” the timeless masterpiece by American composer and pianist George Gershwin. Gershwin’s innovative fusion of classical and jazz music broke musical barriers, influencing countless artists and shaping the American musical landscape. On Saturday, March 9, the Naples Art District will celebrate the 100th anniversary of “Rhapsody in Blue” with an array of jazzy original artwork in multiple hues of blue shown in our studios and galleries along Shirley Street and J & C Blvd. GEORGE GERSHWIN (1898-1937) is most beloved for his musical compositions, notably his jazz opera “Porgy and Bess.” It is a lesserknown fact that Gershwin’s talents extended to the visual arts. He was an excellent painter and portrait artist. Gershwin felt painting and composing were rhythmic complements to each other; in his own words, art and music “spring from the same elements, one emerging as sight, the other as sound.” Many visual artists are inspired by music, and many are also musicians themselves. Highlighted below are three artists with their studios in the Naples Art District, who possess the unique ability to express their creativity across multiple artistic domains. Their artwork is influenced by their multi-disciplinary talents. JAN EDWARDS has combined her passions for music and art in her studio, Musebox Arts, 5850 Shirley St, #208, which she feels “is the one place where I can celebrate all my muses.” Jan is not only a talented painter and guitar player, but also a noted songwriter and recording artist. Jan finds songwriting much like painting, with words and melody as her medium. She notes that “painting is a solitary act, but music is often a collaboration among songwriters.” Jan approaches each songwriting project the same way she approaches her paintings with a blank space that needs to be filled. She pushes boundaries with each song and painting she originates, reinventing herself and discovering something new every time. ANNA RAC, a contemporary abstract artist, with her studio located at 5760 Shirley Street #12 in Artisan’s Plaza, was born in Poland and studied piano from age four. Her family fled political turmoil, leaving the family piano behind with their move to Chicago. She pursued a bachelor’s degree in music and made daily piano playing part of her life. Anna only began painting after moving to Naples, having found a formative instructor, Tammra Sigler, also a skilled artist in the Naples Art District. While Anna paints she listens to the music of Baroque composers – Bach, Beethoven, Vivaldi, and Handel. Translating the mood and rhythms of these classics onto her canvas, her painting process is totally immersive, and her contemporary abstracts are lyrical, dynamic, and multilayered. MICHAEL MONROE, a Naples Art District artist known for his modern abstract art on large canvases, is also a talented pianist. Michael finds a chromatic scale on the piano and on his palette. He notes, “Like music, art can be a soft ballad or a rage of loud color.” Michael performs monthly outside his studio at 2044 J & C Blvd combining his talents on his easel and piano. He was commissioned by the Baldwin Piano Corporation to hand-paint a series of grand pianos, known as the “Artist Series.” Michael has been a resident artist and singer/piano player on cruise ships. His paintings often include the azure hues he found surrounding him on these cruises. When Michael caught sight of the color of the sea and sky in Naples, he knew he had found a home. You can meet these multi-talented artists among the 100 artists in the Naples Art District. Join us for our free Open Studios every Thursday, 1-5 p.m., Art After Dark, 4-8 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month, and our themed Second Saturdays. You can also discover your inner artist in over 50 classes offered by our teaching artists. Please visit naplesartdistrict.com for more information. Other local arts organizations will be honoring Gershwin’s legacy this season, including Artis-Naples and the Baker Museum.
March 2024 Old Naples News | 19 PINE RIDGE RD AIRPORT-PULLING RD NAPLES BLVD YAHL ST SHIRLEY ST J AND C BLVD SEWARD North of Pine Ridge Rd. and West of Airport Rd. Discover, buy & commission original artwork from our 100 talented artists! Every Thursday Open Studios 1 – 5 PM MAR 7, 14, 21, 28 1st Wednedsay Art After Dark 4 – 8 PM MAR 6, APR 3 Themed 2nd Saturdays 1 – 5 PM MAR 9: Rhapsody in Blue APR 13: Celebrate World Art Day 239.249.1977 • NaplesArtDistrict.com ART LOVERS Explore our Studios & Galleries! Scan here for event info and interactive map Free Open Studios Discover our Art Studios just North of Pine Ridge Road and West of Airport Road 239.249.1977 • NaplesArtDistrict.com Discover, buy and commission original artwork from our 100 talented artists SCAN HERE TO VIEW OUR EVENTS AND INTERACTIVE MAP OR VISIT NAPLESARTDISTRICT.COM PINE RIDGE RD AIRPORT-PULLING RD NAPLES BLVD SHIRLEY ST J AND C BLVD SECOND SATURDAY 1–5 PM January February March April 4, 11, 18, 25 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 7, 14, 21, 28 4, 11, 18, 25 13 13 9 10 Month Thursdays 1-5 pm Saturdays 1-5 pm 10 3 6 7 Wednesday Art After Dark 4-8 pm Naples Art District Studios • Galleries • Classes • Events 1185 Third Street South Naples, Fl 34102 (239) 643-8900 www.uniqueboutiquejewelry.com SIMPLY. THE PRETTIEST JEWELRY
20 | Old Naples News March 2024 Come out and experience the Bayfront Art Show, one of the finest art events Naples offers throughout the year. This extraordinary celebration of art and creativity, presented by Naples Picasso Events, takes place in downtown Naples March 16-17, from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Set at the picturesque corner of Goodlette Frank and US41, this juried fine art show is a gathering of exceptional talent from local, national, and international artists. Experience a diverse and vibrant array of artworks that encapsulate the spirit of creativity. The show features everything from vivid paintings that burst with life and color to elegantly crafted ceramics, showcasing the height of artistic skill. Be Juried Fine Art Show March Sat 16 from 10 AM - 6 PM March Sun 17 from 10 AM - 6 PM BAYFRONT ART SHOW FIND INSPIRATION & PASSION FOR ART amazed by digital art pieces that blend cutting-edge technology with artistic vision and explore a wide range of unique artistic expressions. The Bayfront Art Show offers more than just a visual feast. The streets of downtown Naples transform into a haven for art lovers, allowing you to wander, engage with artists, and find pieces that resonate with your personal aesthetic. Whether you’re seeking a striking new addition for your wall or a conversation piece for your desk, this show offers an unparalleled selection. At the heart of Naples, the Bayfront area is not just a location but a destination where art and culture converge in a celebration like no other. The ambiance evokes the charm of European art festivals, complete with hidden galleries and a culinary scene that tantalizes the taste buds. This unique mix of art, atmosphere, and community interaction makes the Bayfront Art Show a culturally enriching and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re an art connoisseur, an admirer of beauty, or someone curious about the art world, the Bayfront Art Show is the perfect destination. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in artistic excellence, find inspiration, and perhaps discover a newfound love for art. This event is more than just an art show; it’s a memorable experience that brings art to life. As one of Naples’ premier art events of the year, it promises to captivate and engage all who attend. With its charming backdrop, Naples provides the ideal setting for an event that celebrates the beauty of art and the spirit of discovery. As the event draws near, be sure to mark your calendars. Don’t miss this chance to be part of the Bayfront Art Show, a highlight of Naples’ cultural calendar. Join us and be part of a celebration that showcases art in its most dynamic and captivating form. Naples awaits your presence, ready to unveil a world of art that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Stephanee Ann, No One Dims My Light, 36”x48” oil on canvas Christine Adele Moore, Party of Two, 36” x 48” Original mixed media on canvas Armik Malekian, Matador Collection Mirela Benes, Special Moments, 48” x 48” acrylic on canvas
8950 Fontana Del Sol Way #100 | Naples, FL 34109 (239) 250-3345 [email protected] MaryAnn “Poogie” Cooper “Sales and Rentals are my expertise” Park Shore-Naples Resident 30 Years FLORIDA REALTOR® 30 YEARS 2021, 2022, 2023 Platinum Sales Award Winner MaryAnn “Poogie” Cooper “Moorings and Park Shore are my shores, and I can help make them yours, too.” PINELAND PARK 4150 BELAIR LN 2BR, 2BA, remodeled with Quartz, stainless steel appliances and open floor plan. Serene park-like views and carport. Private Parkshore beach available. $699,000 PORTSIDE 3100 Binnacle Dr 2BR, 2BA, 1ST FLOOR with glassed in lanai overlooking POOL & LAKE. Moorings private beach available. $449,000 Turnkey furnished! Patient, savvy, and you’re quick to understand what a client wants/needs and I feel I’ve made a new friend.” “ –JoAnn L.
22 | Old Naples News March 2024 Situated on 160 acres in the heart of Naples, The Country Club of Naples (CCN) continues its legacy as one of the most esteemed private, member-owned country clubs in southwest Florida. Nestled just minutes from Old Naples, Park Shore, and the Pelican Bay neighborhoods, CCN is centrally located, tucked away off Solana and Goodlette Frank Roads, approximately two miles from the Gulf of Mexico. What distinguishes it from other area country clubs is the absence of residential real estate associated with the Club, as well as the walkability of the course, with no restrictions on walking at any time of the day. On any given day, walkers account for 40-50% of the rounds. In celebration of its 50th anniversary in 2016, CCN invested $7.6 million in renovating its clubhouse. Today, the clubhouse stands as a testament to relaxed sophistication, featuring expanded outdoor veranda dining, a casual tavern for lunch and dinner, as well as a spacious main dining room with panoramic views of the golf course. CCN Members continue to relish an exceptional golf experience, with the golf course undergoing an $8 million restoration project by renowned course architect Drew Rogers in 2023. Originally designed by Bill Diddel in 1962, the new project respected his original old Florida design while selectively enhancing architectural elements and playability. Additionally, the golf practice area has undergone over $1 million in upgrades. Offering a choice of five sets of tees and three combo-tee sets, CCN ensures that golfers of all skill levels, from low handicappers to casual golfers, can enjoy challenging yet enjoyable rounds. With an average of only 330 golf memberships, tee time availability is never an issue. The THE COUNTRY CLUB OF NAPLES “WHERE MEMBERS BECOME FRIENDS” CC of NaplesMembers Become Friends
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24 | Old Naples News March 2024 highly engaged Ladies Golf Association offers chances for players of various skill levels to come together and enjoy rounds, be it for 9 or 18 holes. Additionally, more than 40% of golf rounds are played by women. CCN has a rich history of hosting prestigious USGA events, scheduling them exclusively in the off-season. Over the years, the Club has hosted the Florida Senior Amateur Championship, two national USGA events, and the Sectional Qualifiers for both the U.S. Amateur Championship and the U.S. Junior Amateur Championships. The Country Club of Naples also proudly hosted the Local Qualifying round for the 112th U.S. Open Championship. Expanding its recreational offerings, CCN now features newly built pickleball courts and a dynamic pickleball program led by Coach Andi ccnaples.net Chatis. Members and their guests can enjoy games for players of all abilities, as well as weekly clinics. Tennis enthusiasts can also indulge in playing on one of the Club’s two Har-Tru courts. Beyond its sports amenities, The Country Club of Naples is celebrated for its welcoming spirit of camaraderie and outstanding social activities. Embodying the ethos of “Where Members Become Friends,” the vibrant schedule is replete with specialty wine dinners, themed movie nights with dinner, book clubs, trivia nights, seafood nights, concerts, and much more. The Club offers a premier casual dining experience, with occasional fine-dining, led by Executive Chef Miguel TellezGarcia and his culinary team, with dining offered up to five nights a week. Laurie Mellor, the Membership & Marketing Director, reflects on CCN’s unique charm, “Given our more modest size compared to numerous country clubs in the Naples area, our charming and intimate club environment provides an ideal setting for developing new friendships. Our members are extremely welcoming and unassuming. I urge those seeking a country club to consider us. CCN is truly a hidden gem in Naples.” Social awaiting golf memberships are now available. For more information, please contact the Laurie Mellor at 239.919.8021 or [email protected]. CC of NaplesMembers Become Friends
26 | Old Naples News March 2024 NEAPOLITAN MOODS Plein air impressionist Julia Kostsova’s new collection “Neapolitan Moods” is currently on display at East West Fine Art. Her paintings capture the charm of Naples’ streets and the pristine beauty of the coastline. Julia Kostsova is a young and widely accomplished artist from St. Petersburg who has gravitated to working in monumental sizes and epic subject matter. Julia prepared this new collection from her studies and sketches that she created during her numerous visits to Southwest Florida. Visits to Florida allow her to see nature in a different LEEZA ARKHANGELSKAYA Owner, East West Fine Art light, a tropical light. Originally, it was very difficult for her to achieve depth and contrast, due to the bleaching effect of the southern Floridian light. Kostsova quickly learned to have her plein air sessions early in the morning or during the approaching evening to reflect the whole realm of the pearlescent colors of the dawn and the deep, saturated palette of the tropical sunset. At East West Fine Art, we have Russian artists, like Julia who visit Naples and work on commission. This is important to the mission of gallery owners Leeza and Olga Arkhangelskaya. Their life goal is to bridge their two Julia Kostsova, Downtown Paradise • 35 x 63 Julia Kostsova, Gulfcoast Sunset • 35 x 63
March 2024 Old Naples News | 27 Two Locations Mercato: 9115 Strada Place, #5155 | Downtown: 472 5th Ave. S. [email protected] | EastWestFineArt.com mother countries – Russia and America. They strive to bring part of Russian art, education, philosophy, and spirituality to beautify Naples’ homes. Artists like Julia spread harmony all around them and have tremendous integrity. “There is no limit to perfection, and I will always strive to reach new heights,” says the ambitious artist. Julia holds herself and her artwork to the highest standards. “I want my art to be real,” she proclaims, “I want it to speak about beauty, poetry, and the essence of life. I believe that art should be alive and should speak to the soul. It must fill the heart with feelings of inner harmony, reveal the best qualities in people, and give hope, faith, and love.” Artists, like Julia Kostsova are the best cultural ambassadors, promoting peace and understanding. There are so many false barriers that the general media has attempted to impose on us. But, through art, East West Fine Art shows the similarities in people with a mutual attraction to beauty and kindness. And what better way to bridge cultural barriers than through art? Naples Trust Company Speaker Series 2024 Tiburon Golf Club | 2620 Tiburon Drive | Naples | 10 AM | Continental Breakfast NOT FDIC INSURED I NOT GUARANTEED I MAY LOSE VALUE Reservations required. RSVP to [email protected] or 239.774.4000 $2 million in investible assets and higher TUESDAY, MARCH 12TH Lessons of Abe Lincoln: How Effective Leadership Can Change the World Dr. Louis P. Masur - Board of Governors Distinguished Professor of American Studies and History | Rutgers University Lincoln’s many gifts include knowing how to listen and knowing when to act. His considerable skills brought the nation through four years of war by listening to opposing viewpoints and not being afraid to change his mind. What can we learn from Lincoln to manage our current conflicts? How can we become more effective leaders? Julia Kostsova, Del Mar • 60 x 40
28 | Old Naples News March 2024 Daily activities are taken for granted. Ingrained in our everyday lives, there is not a lot of thinking involved. As far as our psyche, it is often said, “Don’t sweat the small stuff!” I am going to say quite the contrary when it comes to doing the right things for the body and health. We are social beings. Included in socializing is usually eating and drinking of some sort. There are choices that are made that many times are not the healthiest. Cumulatively, it is our organs that suffer from these bad choices. Particularly, the pancreas and liver are affected in the digestive tract, while the heart, lungs, and brains take the cumulative effects of the overall lifestyle that is followed. Genetics certainly play a role in our future BUT it is more the lifestyle that ultimately affects health. Fight the good fight and change bad habits and make some better choices. It seems that many people who come to Naples overindulge in food and drink. There are a few things that should be done each day despite the dietary way of living. PAULA ALLIA PT, DHSc, MTC, OCS 239.263.9348 335 14th Ave South, Naples, FL. 34102 SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF THESE ARE: • Drink a lot of water each day (approximately half your body weight in ounces of water). Prior to a meal, have a glass of water. • If medications are taken daily, drink a whole glass of water with it and not just a sip. • Eat slowly, chewing the food so that it is liquified before swallowing. This will be more easily digested and put less of a strain on the digestive tract. Chewing provides a sense of pleasure, and you will eat more slowly and get the feeling of satiation without overeating. • Consider a diet of plant-based foods. It has been proven over and over that plant-based eating provides a better opportunity to increase longevity in a healthy way. • Eat healthy fats like avocado and olive oil and avoid the bad fats. • If you are going to consume alcohol, consider less sugary options. Simple syrups and many drink mixes have a high amount of simple sugars that affect the pancreas and liver. When the liver gets “fatty” its efficiency in burning carbohydrates changes. Another area of concern for many people is to exercise and find the right exercise for them. There are many fads and theories on exercise and as a person ages, choosing the right exercise is significant. Exercise for the aging needs to include cardiovascular, weight training, flexibility, posture, and balance. Cardiovascular training is important, keeping your heart rate and blood pressure under control. Being more efficient with oxygen will allow less stress on the body. Some of the newer research is now emphasizing that cardiovascular training can be done in the form of intermittent training. Working the heart for four-minute intervals and rest periods in between seems to have a positive effect on the heart. Weight training is another area of concern. New studies have stated that weight training is most important for longevity. The right form of exercise is key along with the amount of weight lifted. Lifting heavier weights safely puts a person in a state of adversity. The body strains but for fewer repetitions. This will try and promote increased muscle mass while not doing too many repetitions to cause excessive wear and tear on the body. Using a certain percentage of the one rep max is ideal to reach goals. When weight training, work hard at putting efforts into each exercise. Most people go through exercising without ever thinking and connecting to the body. Feeling the muscle and focusing on getting the proper movement and mentally visualizing the contractions while working hard can promote much better results. Make sure plenty of protein is consumed within a few hours after the exercise as the body breaks down muscle to build muscle bigger and better. Also, make sure that when eating protein, a lot of water is consumed as well to decrease the concentration of substances in the system. Take control of your health and body. A little more effort will go a long way. Here’s to your health!
March 2024 Old Naples News | 29 (239) 544-7440 4085 Tamiami Trail North • Suite B103 • Naples, Florida 34103 drwatfordnaples.com Board Certified Internist Concierge Practice Experienced RN Pat RN Service, Excellence, Compassion Call for an introduction! 400 FIFTH AVE SOUTH #100, NAPLES 34102 | 239-331-3632 CHANEL LOUIS VUITTON DIOR GUCCI HERMES PRADA CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN AND MORE! ALL FOR UP TO 70% OFF RETAIL! VOTED BEST! -USA TODAY DESIGNER CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES ON CONSIGNMENT CAROLYN’S ON FIFTH designer consignment
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In a world where many patients feel like they are being rushed and cornered into a one-size-fits-all algorithmic approach to their health concerns, Functional Medicine has been gaining momentum and winning hearts for the last 30 years. Here are the top three reasons why I think so many people find Functional approach to best suit their health needs: 1. Functional Medicine is a system based approach – in other words, it recognizes that a human body is a complex network of organ systems which work in unison, and while any one disruption will be felt like the ripples in the water everywhere in the body, most health concerns result from a combination of imbalances in various body systems. Functional Medicine focuses on the causes which lead to these imbalances, rather than just slap a patient with “band-aid” treatments which would only address the symptoms. For example, someone complaining of severe fatigue could have simultaneous disruption in FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE The author of Diet Slave No More!, Svetlana Kogan, MD is a Board-Certified Internal Medicine, Holistic & Functional Medical Doctor with 25 years of experience. CustomLongevity.com | 239.676.6883 their gastrointestinal absorption of specific nutrients, coupled with inflammation, and/ or disturbed hypothalamic-pituitary axis, and even autoimmune processes, where the body attacks itself, to mention just a few possible underlying imbalances. Functional doctors take a holistic approach where all the body “players” must be considered and healed for the balance to be solidly restored. 2. Functional Medicine is personalized medicine – in that it is patient centered and not just focused on the disease the patient comes in with. Functional Medicine philosophy recognizes that 90% of chronic disease is driven by environment - not genetic composition. Its premise is that chronic disease results from emergence of a disturbed metabolism in the context of environmental trigger on a genetically predisposed person. To heal the disturbed metabolism, Functional approach seeks to remove what creates imbalance and instead to provide that which creates balance. Through expansive and thorough history taking, questionnaires, and nutritionally oriented physical exam – the doctor can put “the pieces of the puzzle together” – so that a picture of disturbed homeostasis appears, with the nodes of potential disturbance to be addressed highlighted for investigation and management. The treatment is customtailored to a person’s unique lifestyle. For example, in customizing an intervention for a patient, we personalize it based on what specific antecedents, triggers, and mediators DR. KOGAN Concierge Holistic & Functional Internal Medicine A BREATH OF AIR IN CONTEMPORARY HEALTHCARE they have been exposed to on their life path, or perhaps before they were even born. Additionally, we consider whether they are married or single, do or do not have children, are working or retired, are fit or sedentary, preferring a vegan or omnivorous diet etc. 3. Functional approach generates customized natural treatment plans which are simple and sustainable. To put it simply: It takes away the bad stuff and adds the good stuff. And best of all, it treats food as medicine! One of the core postulates of Functional Medicine is that food is information, and it affects gene expression. For example, because chronic inflammation plays a role in most diseases, modifying patient’s diet to include antiinflammatory foods and exclude the foods which promote inflammation - will positively affect patients’ organ systems on every level, including downregulating by modulation, or avoiding activation of harmful genetic transcription processes, as opposed to by blocking such mechanisms like certain prescription medications do. In fact, it is estimated that our diet contributes to one-third of preventable cancers - about the same as smoking. By personalizing diet for every patient’s unique family history and life circumstances – a Functional Doctor will provide a preventive intervention, which could potentially prevent most cases of premature heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, to mention a few.
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34 | Old Naples News March 2024 Experience the passion of opera al fresco at the Opera Naples 2024 Festival Under the Stars, the only outdoor winter opera festival in the United States, which runs from Friday, March 1 through Sunday, March 10 in beautiful Cambier Park. Now heralding its fourth annual Festival Under the Stars, Opera Naples proudly partners with the Luciano Pavarotti Foundation to celebrate the legacy of the famed Italian tenor and his profound impact on music. Opera Naples Artistic and Music Director Ramón Tebar leads a star-studded line-up of vocalists from around the world and the Naples Festival Orchestra in this marvelous 10- day festival. The festival begins with a program of Pavarotti Forever on March 1, hosted by none other than the late singer’s widow Nicoletta Pavarotti, and featuring a performance by Argentinian tenor Marcelo Álvarez singing a plethora of Pavarotti signature pieces alongside young, up-and-coming opera stars. The following day, kids of all ages can enjoy three hours of fun, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Family and Community Day, and that evening, audiences can revel in the sultry power of Spanish music and dance with a program of Zarzuela & Flamenco. On March 3, Neapolitans can take pride in a performance by one of their own, internationally acclaimed soprano Jeanette Donatti, who sings alongside Opera Naples Resident Artists. On March 6, curious culture lovers can head over to the Wang Opera Center to view the 2019 documentary film Pavarotti: His Life, directed by Ron Howard and presented that evening by Nicoletta Pavarotti. The festival then continues at Cambier Park on March 7 with a very special (and seductive!) performance by Gulfshore Ballet Theater of Bizet’s Carmen. On March 9, American tenor and Naples favorite Gregory Kunde delivers another virtuosic performance. The festival concludes with two magnificent performances on March 8 and 10 of Puccini’s grand three-act opera, Madama Butterfly. Brace yourself for a powerful performance by soprano Jennifer Rowley in the title role, and get ready for a world-class illustration of this tale of love, betrayal, cultural clash, and sacrifice. Opera Naples is also grateful for its partnerships with the Grand Piano Series, presenting pianist Konstantin Soukhovetski on February 29, as well as master classes at Florida Gulf Coast University, led by Marcelo Álvarez on February 26 and Gregory Kunde on March 7. Opera Naples enjoys focusing much of its multifaceted energy on nurturing the next generation of singers. Suspense. Drama. Allure. Catharsis. It’s all packed into the 2024 Festival Under the Stars! Get your tickets now at operanaples.org or by calling 239.963.9050.
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36 | Old Naples News March 2024 The 2024 Naples Winter Wine Festival (NWWF) “Generosity in Full Bloom” culminated with an amazing live auction, raising a new record of more than $33 million to support at-risk and underprivileged children in Collier County. This brings the total amount raised by the NWWF to almost $302 million since its inception in 2001. Festival attendees once again came together under the big tent just outside The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón to bid on 50 unique, one-of-a-kind wine, travel, and culinary live auction lots, many of which included wines from some of the world’s most revered vineyards. All proceeds will support close to 90 of the most effective nonprofit organizations in the community that have provided more than 300,000 local children with the services and resources they need to excel. AMONG THIS YEAR’S TOP AUCTION LOTS WERE: • “Sailing the Turquoise Waters of the Mediterranean” for $2.7 million: Six couples will cruise the Mediterranean for seven nights on the 312-foot superyacht M/Y Whisper (formerly Kismet), enjoying every comfort and convenience while visiting exotic ports and out-ofthe-way destinations. The seven spacious staterooms are equipped with king beds and ensuites, and there is a crew of 27 to attend to their every need. The yacht includes multiple lounging and dining areas, a formal dining room, a fold-down sea terrace, a double-height main saloon, a cozy cinema room, a world-class gym, a full spa and salon, a range of tenders and toys and a top deck 12m pool, perfect for gazing the stunning coastlines. • “Driving on the Wings of a Cloud” for $1.4 million: The winning bidder will be among the first in the United States to own a 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre, the automaker’s inaugural all-electric vehicle. The automobile offers a bespoke design specifically for the 2024 NWWF, with an Arctic White and Tempest Grey two-tone exterior including a Tailored Purple coachline, 23” wing spoke part polished wheels, and Grace White leather interior accented with Tailored Purple and Black. The interior offers the starlight headliner as well as starlight doors and fascia and is the most connected Rolls-Royce ever. 2024 NAPLES WINTER WINE FESTIVAL LIVE AUCTION ACHIEVES NEW MILESTONE RAISING MORE THAN $33 MILLION FOR AT-RISK AND UNDERPRIVILEGED CHILDREN 2024 Auctioneer Humphrey Butler | Photo by Mila Bridger 2024 Chair Ralph Stayer (right) celebrates his winning bid with Jay Baker (left) | Photo by Tony Zollo
March 2024 Old Naples News | 37 • “25 Years of Wine, Music and Generosity” for $1 million: 40 couples each contributed $25,000 to take part in this exclusive one-of-a-kind event at D’Amico’s The Continental. The evening begins with a cocktail reception followed by a multi-course sit-down meal. The wines being poured will hail from former NWWF Honored Vintners, representing a selection spanning the past 24 years. The evening concludes with a musical performance by The Silverado Pickups, a kickoff to the 25th anniversary season of the NWWF. • “Million Dollar Meal… ALL for the Kids!” for $1 million: 40 couples also each contributed $25,000 for a once-ina-lifetime, exclusive dinner at The Surf Club Restaurant at the Four Seasons in Surfside, Florida on November 21, 2024. Few restaurants in the Sunshine State have been as hotly anticipated as The Surf Club by Chef Thomas Keller. The experience will include a cocktail and wine reception with passed canapés and an elegant, multi-course winepaired tasting menu. A heartfelt call to action, on-the-spot donations supporting this year’s Fund a Need, “Putting Down Roots: Early Learning GROWS a Healthy Mind,” brought in contributions of more than $7.8 million to support NCEF’s early learning and mental health initiatives. Every dollar will support NCEF’s holistic approach of providing behavioral and mental health support at an early age, ensuring children receive the necessary resources and services to allow them to grow and thrive. The 2024 Naples Winter Wine Festival kicked off Thursday evening with an exclusive Grand Crew Party at Campiello restaurant in historic Old Naples. This year, the Festival honored renowned Burgundy and Oregon winemaker Véronique BossDrouhin of Maison Joseph Drouhin and Domaine Drouhin Oregon as its 2024 Honored Vintner and four-time nominated and two-time James Beard Award-winning Chef Paul Bartolotta as its 2024 Chef de Cuisine. On Friday, Festival attendees got the opportunity to witness first-hand the life-changing impact of the NWWF during the annual Meet the Kids Day. The morning culminated in heartfelt presentations showcasing remarkable success stories that NCEF’s grants have made possible, followed by a delicious luncheon highlighting fabulous wines presented by acclaimed vintners. The night before Saturday’s Live Auction, 18 all-star celebrity chefs, over 20 renowned vintners, and 18 of the world’s elite featured sommeliers paired off to prepare exquisite, intimate dinners at the stunning private homes of Festival Trustees and other exclusive locations across Naples. Using the funds raised from this year’s auction, NCEF will award grants to local organizations and fund strategic initiatives supporting Collier County children in need on Monday, March 18. J. Eric Price Managing Director – Investments and Branch Manager Thomas C. Kahl Senior Vice President – Investments Wayne A. Meland Senior Vice President – Investments Proudly Serving Our Clients in Naples Trust. Integrity. Mutual Respect. Benjamin F. Edwards is a national wealth management firm committed to client-first service and providing the investment advice you deserve. 850 Park Shore Drive | Suite 204 | Naples, FL 34103 | P 239-354-7432 | TF 833-354-4700 benjaminfedwards.com | 2015-0655 Exp. 12/31/2024 Member SIPC
38 | Old Naples News March 2024 STUDENTS “DIVE IN” DURING STEAM EXPO CHAD OLIVER Chief Communication Officer Collier County Public Schools Naples resident and Emmy® Awardwinning cinematographer Andy Casagrande goes underwater around the world to educate about and elevate an often misunderstood part of our oceans and pop culture: sharks. On a Saturday in late January, Casagrande dazzled an audience of more than 1,800 people — students, parents, and school and district staff — gathered at the new Aubrey Rogers High School in North Naples for the 2024 Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) STEAM Expo. “Andy could live anywhere. He chose to come here. To live here. To send his kids to school [in CCPS],” remarked Superintendent Dr. Leslie Ricciardelli following the keynote presentation where Casagrande took students on a virtual video expedition faceto-face with various shark species. He’s best known for his work in capturing stunning footage of sharks and other marine creatures, often involving close-up encounters, which provide intricate details into shark behavior patterns, personalities, and idiosyncrasies. His work has been featured on National Geographic and during Discovery Channel’s “Shark Week.” “I thought it was great energy, and the kids were excited,” Casagrande said. “For me, it’s an authentic experience. I want to share everything I know about sharks.” That authenticity was especially evident when he showed a shark swallowing and then sending a $5,000 camera to the bottom of an ocean. Lesson to be learned: use a tether the next time! He explained the resilient nature and brilliant minds of sharks to outlive dinosaurs. Casagrande even brought his elementary-age son up to the stage to help him stretch a tape measure showing the incredible lengths sharks can grow. You should have seen the wide eyes of students when they demonstrated whale sharks can grow up to 60 feet long! After the expedition in the school’s splashy new auditorium — more aptly described as a performing arts hall — students spilled into the Aubrey Rogers High main concourse and gymnasium to experience hands-on learning activities within “STEAM Village.” “We’re using coding to build a big water aquarium and put fish inside it,” explained Oakridge Middle School student Kush Munim while at a computer using the game-based platform Minecraft Education. He talked back and forth with a friend, working simultaneously next to him on a different laptop, to create an underwater ecosystem. A few feet away, elementary children used art supplies to create pieces of coral and place them within a colorful, studentcreated coral reef. Everywhere you walked or looked, students explored different aspects and potential career paths in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. “My hope today is that they take away the importance of our oceans,” said Dr. Ricciardelli. “We need those sharks to keep our oceans healthy.” Most student attendees were elementary and middle school students. High school students worked exhibits within STEAM Village, earned volunteer hours, and mentored younger students. The morning also provided exposure to local opportunities, like The Water School at Florida Gulf Coast University. One objective of this community engagement event is to spark ideas of how students might continue learning about sharks and marine conservation. “This is our backyard. This is our life. Go over to Rookery Bay,” Dr. Ricciardelli added. “There is research being done every day.” Casagrande’s eyes focus on the attention to detail needed to attach a camera to the fin of great hammerheads to learn why and how long they swim sideways. He works in and out of underwater cages with cameras that capture 1,000 frames per second showing the ravenous feeding pattern of the great white shark. It’s wild work. It’s important work. He’s cognizant he won’t be doing it forever. “For those kids here watching today, when we’re long gone, they’ll be conducting the groundbreaking discoveries of the future.” Lorenzo Walker Tech College - electricity in the auto service industry Virtual reality underwater field trips Andy Casagrande | Courtesy ABC4EXPLORE
40 | Old Naples News March 2024 NCH EXPANDS CARDIOVASCULAR CARE WITH STEMI CENTER AT NORTH HOSPITAL NCH is proud to announce the opening of the STEMI (ST-elevation myocardial infarction) center at NCH North Hospital, further enhancing the region’s access to advanced cardiovascular care. The STEMI center at NCH North is the second such specialized center at NCH, with the first one being located at the NCH Baker Hospital downtown. STEMI is a critical type of heart attack that occurs when a coronary artery is completely blocked, requiring immediate medical attention. Working in conjunction with Collier EMS, NCH has reduced the “door to balloon” time to just 28 minutes at the Baker location, which represents the time it takes the patient to receive the artery-opening balloon procedure from the moment they enter the Emergency Department. This is well below national standards of 90 minutes and places NCH in the 99th percentile in the performance of STEMI procedures. The expansion of NCH’s STEMI center to NCH North Hospital is a strategic move to better serve the community by providing timely and specialized care for patients experiencing this life-threatening condition who reside in northern Collier and southern Lee Counties. The new center at NCH North Hospital is equipped with state-of-theart facilities, cutting-edge technology, and a highly skilled dedicated STEMI team of healthcare professionals dedicated to delivering rapid and effective interventions for STEMI patients. This expansion reinforces NCH’s commitment to elevating the standard of cardiac care in Naples and surrounding areas. “The NCH Rooney Heart Institute is on a transformational journey to become one of America’s top cardiovascular institutes. This day represents yet another major landmark in our path and commitment to expand and adhere to our core goals and mission,” said Dr. Robert Cubeddu, President of the NCH Rooney Heart Institute. “The opening of our second STEMI receiving center at our NCH North Hospital campus will assure Naples residents and surrounding communities, access to the highest quality standards of care. This important milestone will undoubtedly improve the lives and outcome of those at risk and inflicted by a major cardiovascular event.” “This expansion reinforces NCH’s dedication to providing immediate, lifesaving interventions for cardiac emergencies,” said Paul Hiltz, NCH President and CEO. “It ensures our community receives worldclass cardiovascular care when minutes matter most.” Ilia Echevarria, PhD, MS, RN, CCRN-K, NEA-BC, CENP, CHES, Chief Nursing Officer NCH North Naples Hospital; Paul Hiltz, FACHE, NCH President and CEO; Steven Deutsch, MD, Interventional Cardiologist, NCH Rooney Heart Institute; Robert J. Cubeddu, MD, The Brynne and Bob Coletti Endowed Chair for the President of the NCH Rooney Heart Institute; Anthony Maro, Captain, Collier County Medical Services; Mags Palma, Vice President Clinical Services.
March 2024 Old Naples News | 41 PROVIDE THE BEST HEALTHCARE Gary supports the creation of the NCH Heart Institute. Our residents deserve world class health care options, and our city council has kicked the can down the road for too long. If the time comes that you need these services, having them here in Naples could be lifesaving. INVEST IN POLICE AND FIRE SAFETY Gary will make sure Naples has the highest-quality, top-of-the-line public service operations to keep you safe. This means investing in our first responders, and making sure they have every resource they need. Gary will secure officers their own vehicles to decrease response times and streamline logistics. VOTE TUESDAY, MARCH 19TH RESIDENTS FIRST RESTORE FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY The current mayor and city council voted to increase our property taxes, creating an additional financial burden on our families. Gary believes it’s time to restore fiscal sanity to our government. PRESERVE OUR PROPERTY RIGHTS Our individual rights are sacred – but the current mayor and council repeatedly attack them. Gary Price will stop the assault on our property rights. He’ll treat us and our businesses fairly. Gary is a two-time Home Rule Hero Award winner. Paid for by Gary Price for Mayor EARLY VOTE: SATURDAY, MARCH 9TH – SATURDAY, MARCH 16TH
42 | Old Naples News March 2024 ADVANCES IN STEM CELL TREATMENT ANTI-AGING, BACK/NECK PAIN, AUTISM, & MORE At the Prodromos Stem Cell Institute, we carry out world-leading stem cell treatment in beautiful Antigua and now in Athens, Greece. We are one of the only centers to carry out and publish high-quality clinical research. Please visit our website at www.thepsci.com to find out more. Dr. Prodromos received his bachelor’s degree from Princeton, M.D. from Johns Hopkins, served residencies at UChicago and Rush University, and a fellowship in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine at Harvard Med/Mass General Hospital. FEATURED IN TONY ROBBINS BOOK Tony Robbins, bestselling author, and motivational speaker, features Dr. Prodromos and his stem cell work in his new best-selling book Life Force. CELLS We use umbilical cord-derived stem cells (NOT fetal or embryonic) from Vitro Biopharma (vitrobiopharma.com) in Golden, Colorado. These cells are FDA-approved for use in human patients. The cells at most other offshore centers are not FDA-approved and not cultured in the USA. We feel our cells provide a significant advantage. ANTI-AGING In an ongoing study, we have found stem cells to decrease physiologic age and improve DNA epigenetics including telomere length, DNA methylation, and mitotic index (thought to be cancer-protective). Eighty-five percent of patients with shortterm memory loss and fatigue significantly improve. Treatment is a simple one-hour painless IV infusion. Our data is the first evidence that stem cells have anti-aging properties. ARTHRITIS Simple stem cell IV infusion and joint injection are highly successful in avoiding joint replacement or other surgery in most patients with knee, shoulder, ankle, wrist, and hand arthritis and early hip arthritis. CHRONIC BACK AND NECK PAIN If physical therapy fails the only alternative has been surgery: with its high pain level, high complication rate, and long recovery. We have a high success rate, no complications, and recovery usually within a week with simple stem cell injection and infusion. Our extensive research paper with these results was just sent in for publication. ED/FEMALE INTIMACY: Stem cell injection is effective in most patients. AUTISM Eighty-eight percent of our treated autism patients show enduring benefits after simple IV stem cell infusion. There have been no side effects. EEG improvement is also seen. There is no other consistently effective autism treatment. AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE We have seen good success with rheumatoid arthritis, MS, scleroderma, and other autoimmune disorders. HAIR RESTORATION Stem cell injection is consistently effective in thickening hair in males and females. It will not regrow hair in completely bald patients. SPORTSMEDICINE Dr. Prodromos is pictured with NFL Pro Bowl Quarterback Kirk Cousins who came to him. Pro Bowl NFL center Ryan Jensen was restored to play in an unprecedented five and a half months after tearing three knee ligaments without surgery. International ski champion AJ Ginnis recorded his best-ever time after stem cell treatment. All elected to tell their stories, which can be viewed on our website. DR. CHADWICK C. PRODROMOS, M.D. Medical Director & CEO The Prodromos Stem Cell Institute We may be reached at 847.217.8409 or [email protected] or view our website at thepsci.com for the numerous other disorders stem cells can treat. Dr. Prodromos and Minnesota Vikings Quarterback Kirk Cousins
March 2024 Old Naples News | 43
44 | Old Naples News March 2024 DOES JANUARY’S STOCK MARKET RETURN PREDICT WHAT IS LIKELY TO HAPPEN NEXT? In our daily lives, we are presented with many situations where we need to make a decision without having all of the information. To help us stay safe and healthy, our caveman’s brains use mental shortcuts to help us solve problems and make hundreds of small judgment decisions every day. For example: • We know we shouldn’t walk into a dark alley, particularly alone. • We trust and are more influenced by authority figures, such as news channel anchors. • We try and find patterns in random events, such as guessing the sex of a baby. These mental shortcuts are what psychologists call cognitive biases. By using these cognitive biases, our brains are able to make mostly correct decisions while expending minimal effort. When it comes to investing, our brain utilizes similar decision-making biases to help simplify the complex. Mental shortcuts, such as rules of thumb, common wisdom, and catchy phrases can make investing seem easier. But easier doesn’t guarantee better results. Markets, which often reflect all known (and sometimes unknown) information, trade on actual fundamentals, not age-old adages. An old saying on Wall Street is, “As goes January, so goes the year.” The idea is that if the stock market does well in January, it is a sign of positive returns for the rest of the year. Similarly, if the stock market fares poorly during the first month of the year, then these negative results are likely to persist through the rest of the calendar. Seems plausible after 2023’s terrific stock market performance. In fact, the old adage was spot-on last year! But don’t be fooled by recent memory (another type of cognitive bias). These are the types of years that breathe new life into these age-old adages. Instead, let’s use history as our guide. The table below uses monthly return data for the S&P 500 Index going back to the start of 1992. This data encompasses bull markets, bear markets, bubbles, crashes, and everything in between. In the table, we plot the month of January’s return on the horizontal axis, while we plot the full year’s return on the vertical axis. We use this format to help us better understand if January’s monthly return really does have predictive power for the remainder of the year. JANUARY’S MONTHLY RETURN FULL YEAR RETURN Positive Negative Total Total 22 Times (72%) 9 Times (28%) Positive Negative Based on S&P 500 Index. Source: Standard & Poor’s 14 Times (44%) 4 Times (13%) 18 Times (56%) 9 Times (28%) 5 Times (16%) 14 Times (44%) Since 1992, January’s monthly return was positive and the full year’s return was positive 44% of the time. However, when January’s monthly return was negative, the full year’s return was also negative just 13% of the time. These two contradictory stats prove that January’s return does not have predictive power over what may happen the rest of the year for the stock market. But what explains why January’s monthly return and the full-year return are positive so often? Stocks tend to be positive more often than they are negative, historically by roughly a 2-to-1 ratio. This makes sense because we know the long-term history of stocks has been positive. In fact, our data set shows that 72% of the full-year returns have been positive. The reason we recognize some sort of pattern in the data is because of those pesky cognitive biases—our minds are tricking us into believing something that actually isn’t there! And it happens frequently enough to keep us believing. So, the next time you hear, “As goes January, so goes the year”, “Sell in May and go away”, or about the seasonally generous “Santa Claus Rally” just remember that it’s your mind playing tricks on you. Just don’t let it play ROB EDWARDS tricks on your money, too. Managing Director – Investments Senior PIM® Portfolio Manager Edwards Group of Wells Fargo Advisors EdwardsGroupNaples.com Investment and Insurance Products: Not FDIC Insured / No Bank Guarantee / May Lose Value The S&P 500 Index consists of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation. It is a market value weighted index with each stock’s weight in the Index proportionate to its market value. Wells Fargo Advisors did not assist in the preparation of this report, and its accuracy and completeness are not guaranteed. The report herein is not a complete analysis of every material fact in respect to any company, industry or security. The opinions expressed here reflect the judgment of the author as of the date of the report and are subject to change without notice. Any market prices are only indications of market values and are subject to change. The material has been prepared or is distributed solely for information purposes and is not a solicitation or an offer to buy any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy. Additional information is available upon request. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.
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46 | Old Naples News March 2024 DON’T FORGET THE LAUNDRY ALEXANDRA JANZ Broker Associate & Luxury Properties Specialist William Raveis-Florida, LLC 239.315.1079 | ajnaplesrealty.com When you’re selling your home in Naples, your REALTOR® will most likely talk to you about home staging – the act of making your space more appealing to buyers. One of the spaces in a home that’s often neglected during staging is the laundry room… but it doesn’t have to be. Check out these four tips to make your laundry room more appealing to buyers before you put your home on the market. 4 TIPS TO MAKE YOUR LAUNDRY ROOM MORE APPEALING TO BUYERS 1. Add art. 2. Use vertical organizers. 3. Make use of baskets and decorative boxes. 4. Don’t be afraid of bold colors. HERE’S A CLOSER LOOK AT EACH #1: ADD ART In the vast majority of laundry rooms, people avoid hanging art. That’s because they see laundry rooms as purely functional spaces – but when you’re selling a home, you’re selling an idea of comfort and style. Hang art in your laundry room, whether it’s an adorable picture of socks hanging on a laundry line or a classic piece you are likely to see in a museum. #2: USE VERTICAL ORGANIZERS Because floor space is usually at a premium in laundry rooms, use vertical organization techniques. That means using shelves and cabinets that can expand storage opportunities. You can even add a hanging basket, such as one that you’d see in a child’s room for stuffed animals. A tall, rolling rack with space for hanging clothes is also a welcome addition, provided you have the floor space for it. #3: MAKE USE OF BASKETS AND DECORATIVE BOXES Rather than leaving everything out in the open, use beautiful baskets and decorative boxes to store laundry room items. These also can serve the purpose of adding texture to the space, which is something that will make the room look more inviting. Place these on shelves to create a well-coordinated, streamlined look that buyers will love. #4: DON’T BE AFRAID OF BOLD COLORS Laundry rooms are small spaces, and that means they’re perfect for decorating in bold ways. A bright laundry room is less likely to put off buyers than, say, a hot pink wall in your living room. Because you can close the door to a laundry room, it’s the perfect place for bright colors and bold patterns. You should talk to your real estate agent before you make any major changes to the style in this space, but there’s a good chance that you can make it bold and vibrant to make a lasting impression on prospective buyers.
River Park East is a unique, close-knit neighborhood often overlooked and forgotten. When Hurricane Ian's storm surge brought 4 to 6ft of water, many had nowhere else to go. Fortunately, the Collier Community Foundation came to our assistance, and we know they will continue to help. If you want to support our community, you can count on your donation going where it's supposed to go by giving through the Collier Community Foundation. — Vincent Keeys President, NAACP Collier Is it time to think about giving here? You can support the community you love by opening a charitable fund or naming the Collier Community Foundation in your will. Call us at 239-649-5000 to learn more.
KAREN T. BARTLETT Travel Editor In an age when a 20-deck, 5000-passenger city at sea can slice through the ocean at 20 knots, what could possibly be the lure of a 117-year-old 8-passenger barge that travels at the speed of molasses? Or slower, if it’s not in a hurry – which it isn’t. For me, meandering through centuries-old canals in the bucolic wine and Armagnac-infused countryside of Gascony aboard the flower-bedecked floating hotel, Barge Rosa, is exactly the lure. Far from her origins as a Dutch clipper ship, the sleek 16-foot-wide blue and white floating hotel with touches of gold and a distinctive red chevron at her bow draws oohs and aahs along the Canal du Garonne, ascending and descending the dramatic stairstep system of locks and sluices in the less-traveled Occitanie region of southern France. This is the land of Cyrano de Bergerac and real-life French Musketeer Charles de Batz de Castelmore d’Artagnan, as well as the 700-year-old Château de Lamotte Bardigues, built by the nephew of Clement V, the first pope of Avignon; where, incidentally, 20th generation Countess Caroline de Boisséson has invited our small party to tea. Unlike the cast of thousands needed to run a cruise ship, Barge Rosa’s crew of four exists solely to indulge, feed and delight. The husband-andwife team of skilled lockmaster/ captain Julian and historian/guide/ sommelier Nicole are multilingual globetrotters who return each spring, along with the exquisitely talented, classically trained Chef Stéphane, whose every plate is an artist’s palette and a gastronome’s dream. Hostess/housekeeper/fairy godmother Agatha fluffs up our cabin and anticipates every wish. Nicole— who once owned a bar in Mallorca, Spain was a live-aboard divemaster on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef in Australia and managed a guest house in Yangzhou, China— opens doors of private wine cellars, iconic distilleries, and renowned local fromageries, and BARGE ROSA Barge Rosa Gascony SIX DAYS AND 700 YEARS IN GASCONY Barge Rosa Nicole: Guide, historian, interpreter, storyteller, sommelier Wine tasting at Château Bellevue la Fôret. Cheese tasting at La Ferme du Ramier Photos by Karen T. Bartlett
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50 | Old Naples News March 2024 her gift for authentic storytelling evokes the soul of Gascony. Barge Rosa has four ensuite cabins, a chic salon/dining room, the chef ’s galley and a spacious lounging deck. The ambience is warm and friendly: food and wine sophisticated, dress code casual. When it’s simply too gorgeous to lunch inside, Chef Stéphane may prepare a lavish Gascon buffet al fresco on deck, and a starry night calls for a soak in the hot tub at the bow —paired, naturally, with just the right wine. Nicole has arranged a private tasting at the distinguished Château Bellevue la Fôret, the largest privately owned wine estate in the southwest of France, and an insider’s peek into the Armagnac barrel cave at Domaine de Lapeyrade in the foothills of the Pyrenees. Dating Barge Rosa Gascony A plateau de fromage: Tomme de Savoie from the French Alps, Saint Agur (milder than Roquefort), and the lusciously creamy Brillat Savarin back to the early 1300s and produced nowhere else in the world, Armagnac is more fragrant and complex than its cousin, cognac. At La Ferme du Ramier, we sample the renowned regional cheeses produced the traditional way in copper vats by the 4th generation familie Maraval. Of course, it’s not all about the food and wine. We cruise the River Tarn atop (not beneath) the famous 1000-foot-long aqueduct, Pont Canal du Cacor. We immerse in antiquity at castle walls, medieval villages, and the cloisters of the 11th century Abbaye St-Pierre de Moissac, with its intricately carved columns and massive stone tympanum depicting demons and creatures from the Apocalypse. We can walk or bicycle along the towpaths (possibly meeting pilgrims hiking the Camino de Santiago), assist Captain Julian with the opening and closing of locks, shop the outdoor market with Nicole, learn the fine art of cheese slicing with Agatha or plating with Chef Stéphane. Or we can simply glide ever so gently through a landscape of sunflowers, plum and apple trees, weeping willows, and quaint old-stone lockkeepers’ houses in an intimate world far from the open seas. IF YOU GO Barge Rosa and other independently owned barges throughout Europe are marketed by European Waterways and represented by Barge Lady Cruises. All-inclusive sixnight rates from April to October (excluding gratuities): $5,500-$9,000 per person. | bargeladycruises.com Top Right: A prized bottle of Armagnac des Roys de France from Domaine Lapeyrade Following Photos: Creative platings by Chef Stéphane